Scan barcode
theavidreaderandbibliophile's review against another edition
4.0
A Borrowed Dream by Amanda Cabot is the second novel in Cimarron Creek Trilogy. Catherine Whitfield is the schoolteacher in Cimarron Creek and lives alone since her mother passed away. Catherine has a strong dislike of physician’s courtesy of the local doctors archaic practice of bleeding, purging and blistering which hastened her mother’s demise. Catherine has a chance to marry, but she does not want to be a person’s second choice. Austin Goodard is the new widower in town with a young daughter, Hannah. He has traveled across the country to hide from Sherman Enright. Sherman is a dangerous criminal who wants Austin to use his surgical skills in a way that goes against Austin’s values. Unfortunately, Sherman is not one to take no for an answer. Austin has bought a ranch and is keeping his medical background under wraps. Catherine and Austin are brought together in their desire to help Hannah, who has become withdrawn and quiet, and assist Seth Dalton. Seth has an abusive, slave driver for a father and natural artistic skill. Austin is falling for the schoolteacher, but she is unaware of his secret. In order for Austin to have the future he envisions with Catherine, he will have to deal with Sherman Enright.
A Borrowed Dream is well-written, has a steady pace and delightful characters. The characters are well-developed and, most of them, are warm caring people that you would want as friends. Sherman Enright and his minions along with Seth’s father provide a counterpoint to Austin and Catherine. There are smooth transitions as the story goes from one scene to the next. Amanda Cabot has a fluid writing style that gives readers an engaging novel. It is a multi-layered story (which I loved) filled with suspense, mystery, history and romance. I had no idea there were plastic surgeons that far back in history. The author included some research information at the end of the book that propelled me into finding out more about the profession (it is fascinating). The Christian element is present and is gently woven into the story (forgiveness, prayer, having faith, trust, helping others and letting God show you the way). It is done with a light touch. A Borrowed Dream can be read alone. The characters from A Stolen Heart are in A Borrowed Dream, and it is nice to catch up with them. Grace Sims is a character introduced in the story (Catherine takes her in), and I hope we get to find out more about Grace in the next book in the trilogy. A Borrowed Dream is a heartwarming and charming story that will delight those who read it.
A Borrowed Dream is well-written, has a steady pace and delightful characters. The characters are well-developed and, most of them, are warm caring people that you would want as friends. Sherman Enright and his minions along with Seth’s father provide a counterpoint to Austin and Catherine. There are smooth transitions as the story goes from one scene to the next. Amanda Cabot has a fluid writing style that gives readers an engaging novel. It is a multi-layered story (which I loved) filled with suspense, mystery, history and romance. I had no idea there were plastic surgeons that far back in history. The author included some research information at the end of the book that propelled me into finding out more about the profession (it is fascinating). The Christian element is present and is gently woven into the story (forgiveness, prayer, having faith, trust, helping others and letting God show you the way). It is done with a light touch. A Borrowed Dream can be read alone. The characters from A Stolen Heart are in A Borrowed Dream, and it is nice to catch up with them. Grace Sims is a character introduced in the story (Catherine takes her in), and I hope we get to find out more about Grace in the next book in the trilogy. A Borrowed Dream is a heartwarming and charming story that will delight those who read it.
turquoiseavenue's review against another edition
3.0
*I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Revell at Baker Publishing Group via NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts below are my own.
A Borrowed Dream, book two in the Cimarron Creek Trilogy is a book that rather surprised me. It is the first book I've read by author, Amanda Cabot. The story begins when Austin Goddard and his young daughter move to Cimarron Creek, harboring secrets that mean life or death. As Austin ushers his young daughter to school, he meets the young and beautiful school teacher, Catherine, who he quickly begins falling for while he battles his need to keep his true identity secret and keep his daughter safe. Catherine finds herself wrapped up in her own secrets and trials as she walks through life with a mistrust for the town's current doctor, meets and takes in a stranger, and cares for her schoolchildren. The story is one of new love, secrets, forgiveness, tragedy and even mild suspense.
In beginning this book, I immediately saw the connection to the first book in the series, which I have not yet read. At times, I did feel like I had missed something, especially when it came to understanding some of the characters and their history, but this book does focus on a story that is completely separate from book one. Without giving too much away, the love story is sweet as we see a relationship form out of friendship and respect. There are fairly exciting twists and turns that keep readers interested and turning the pages to find out what happens next. There's even an evil villain... The story moves quickly, is sweet, touching, predictable, clean and has the perfect happy ending, just as you'd expect.
A Borrowed Dream has similarities to Janette Oke's "Love Comes" series so if you're a fan of hers, you will really enjoy Amanda Cabot as well. Because the story does touch on subjects like murder and rape, I would ask parents of young adult readers (ages 11-13) to consider the reader's maturity level but I do feel the book was well suited for teenage girls 14+. My reason for this rating is simply a matter of personal opinion. The book was good and I liked it. You may like it much more than I did. I desired a deeper storyline, while this one merely skimmed the surface. Several tragedies happen and I felt the author only lightly touched on what would have been a deep impact for such a small, close knit community. The predictability was another factor that I wrestled with, unfortunately knowing exactly how the book would end. The outcome of too many events felt so convenient and obvious for the storyline. However, amidst my desires for something deeper, I still found myself turning the pages as the story moved along, held my interest and had various climactic elements. When all was said and done, I found myself wanting to read more by this author in this series and I think you will too! Again, if you're looking for a cozy, historical fiction read with engaging elements, this is the book for you!
A Borrowed Dream, book two in the Cimarron Creek Trilogy is a book that rather surprised me. It is the first book I've read by author, Amanda Cabot. The story begins when Austin Goddard and his young daughter move to Cimarron Creek, harboring secrets that mean life or death. As Austin ushers his young daughter to school, he meets the young and beautiful school teacher, Catherine, who he quickly begins falling for while he battles his need to keep his true identity secret and keep his daughter safe. Catherine finds herself wrapped up in her own secrets and trials as she walks through life with a mistrust for the town's current doctor, meets and takes in a stranger, and cares for her schoolchildren. The story is one of new love, secrets, forgiveness, tragedy and even mild suspense.
In beginning this book, I immediately saw the connection to the first book in the series, which I have not yet read. At times, I did feel like I had missed something, especially when it came to understanding some of the characters and their history, but this book does focus on a story that is completely separate from book one. Without giving too much away, the love story is sweet as we see a relationship form out of friendship and respect. There are fairly exciting twists and turns that keep readers interested and turning the pages to find out what happens next. There's even an evil villain... The story moves quickly, is sweet, touching, predictable, clean and has the perfect happy ending, just as you'd expect.
A Borrowed Dream has similarities to Janette Oke's "Love Comes" series so if you're a fan of hers, you will really enjoy Amanda Cabot as well. Because the story does touch on subjects like murder and rape, I would ask parents of young adult readers (ages 11-13) to consider the reader's maturity level but I do feel the book was well suited for teenage girls 14+. My reason for this rating is simply a matter of personal opinion. The book was good and I liked it. You may like it much more than I did. I desired a deeper storyline, while this one merely skimmed the surface. Several tragedies happen and I felt the author only lightly touched on what would have been a deep impact for such a small, close knit community. The predictability was another factor that I wrestled with, unfortunately knowing exactly how the book would end. The outcome of too many events felt so convenient and obvious for the storyline. However, amidst my desires for something deeper, I still found myself turning the pages as the story moved along, held my interest and had various climactic elements. When all was said and done, I found myself wanting to read more by this author in this series and I think you will too! Again, if you're looking for a cozy, historical fiction read with engaging elements, this is the book for you!
farmfreshlisa's review against another edition
4.0
This is book 2 in the Cimarron Creek trilogy. The book picks up right where book 1 ends, so I wouldn't recommend reading it first. This book follows Catherine Whitfield, a teacher in Cimmaron Creek who just lost her mother to the "butcher" of a local doctor. It has soured her view on doctors forever and she will do whatever it takes to keep the people she loves out of his hands.
Austin Goddard is a plastic surgeon on the run from a criminal mastermind bent on revenge. He arrives in town with his 6 year old daughter determined to start a new life as a rancher keeping everything about his former life secret for the protection of his daughter.
I enjoyed this story of Catherine and Austin, as well as the continued arrivals of the previous stories characters. I totally called the identity of the "visitor" and suspected the man who led to her original departure. I wasn't sure about the part of Austin being a plastic surgeon during the late 1800's, but I appreciated the authors note at the end about it and how it really was possible.
I have a feeling I know how the third book may play out in regards to one of the subplots, but we shall see. I am also looking forward to meeting Thea. I haven't seen her since I first read the author's Paper Roses a couple years ago. I might need to go re-read that book to remember Thea's back story before book #3 comes out.
This is a good new series. NOthing that you have to think too hard about. And you get the closure you are wanting.
Austin Goddard is a plastic surgeon on the run from a criminal mastermind bent on revenge. He arrives in town with his 6 year old daughter determined to start a new life as a rancher keeping everything about his former life secret for the protection of his daughter.
I enjoyed this story of Catherine and Austin, as well as the continued arrivals of the previous stories characters. I totally called the identity of the "visitor" and suspected the man who led to her original departure. I wasn't sure about the part of Austin being a plastic surgeon during the late 1800's, but I appreciated the authors note at the end about it and how it really was possible.
I have a feeling I know how the third book may play out in regards to one of the subplots, but we shall see. I am also looking forward to meeting Thea. I haven't seen her since I first read the author's Paper Roses a couple years ago. I might need to go re-read that book to remember Thea's back story before book #3 comes out.
This is a good new series. NOthing that you have to think too hard about. And you get the closure you are wanting.
hugbandit7's review against another edition
5.0
There is something about this little Texas town called Cimarron Creek. It is a quaint western town with citizens that mostly help and support one another. I think life was a bit simpler back then too.
This installment focuses on the schoolmarm, Catherine. We met her in A Stolen Heart (book 1) and while I thought I might know who was going to be her love match in that first book, I couldn't have been more wrong.
While this is an enjoyable story with plots twists and turns, it is also educational. When I first read that Austin was a plastic surgeon I thought this could not be possible. However, the author's notes at the end of the story gave me the history of this profession and that there were doctors going back to Egyptian times that performed procedures similar to microdermabrasion.
The story is also full of conflict - from past wrongs to one father beating his son just because he likes to draw. And of course the conflict between Austin and Sherman, the mafia boss type. However, the story does have a happy ending but leaves lots of openings for future stories about this little town called Cimarron Creek.
This installment focuses on the schoolmarm, Catherine. We met her in A Stolen Heart (book 1) and while I thought I might know who was going to be her love match in that first book, I couldn't have been more wrong.
While this is an enjoyable story with plots twists and turns, it is also educational. When I first read that Austin was a plastic surgeon I thought this could not be possible. However, the author's notes at the end of the story gave me the history of this profession and that there were doctors going back to Egyptian times that performed procedures similar to microdermabrasion.
The story is also full of conflict - from past wrongs to one father beating his son just because he likes to draw. And of course the conflict between Austin and Sherman, the mafia boss type. However, the story does have a happy ending but leaves lots of openings for future stories about this little town called Cimarron Creek.
bluebell4's review against another edition
informative
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
emslovestoread's review against another edition
4.0
Very sweet romance. The only thing that brought it to 3.5 stars was that the characters didn't ever really have to solve their own problems. Someone was conveniently there to take care of it for them. It made the character development a little lacking. Overall though, I enjoyed it. I ADORED Austin!
daphself's review against another edition
3.0
In the second book of the Cimarron Creek Trilogy I found myself skipping ahead through some parts. It wasn't that it was written badly; it had more to do with the explanations and backstories thrown in. I desired the meat of the story. To me, it is always better to discover more about a character than to be told upfront. And I really don't like explanations on why something happened. To me, readers are quite smart and don't need an explanation given for an action or decision in the story.
Other than that, the story was good. I enjoyed the plot twists. Actually I was waiting on them knowing that it would happen. The ending seemed too rushed, but then most historical romances end that way. The set up for the third book has me intrigued. This set up started midway in this book and added more depth to the characters and setting.
Amanda Cabot has a way in describing life in Texas during the late 1800's. I could almost imagine the heat and landscape. There were parts in the book that were pretty gritty and that gave more authencity to the story. This isn't a sweet HEA, although there is a happy ending.
If you love westerns and historical novels with believable characters, then this book is a definite read. You don't have to read the first one before this one, but it would help in understanding some of the characters.
Looking forward to the next book, one that picks up the story from Paper Roses.
Other than that, the story was good. I enjoyed the plot twists. Actually I was waiting on them knowing that it would happen. The ending seemed too rushed, but then most historical romances end that way. The set up for the third book has me intrigued. This set up started midway in this book and added more depth to the characters and setting.
Amanda Cabot has a way in describing life in Texas during the late 1800's. I could almost imagine the heat and landscape. There were parts in the book that were pretty gritty and that gave more authencity to the story. This isn't a sweet HEA, although there is a happy ending.
If you love westerns and historical novels with believable characters, then this book is a definite read. You don't have to read the first one before this one, but it would help in understanding some of the characters.
Looking forward to the next book, one that picks up the story from Paper Roses.
thatswhatshesreading's review
5.0
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.
I slightly stepped out of my comfort zone when I decided to read this one, and while not the best way to go about choosing books to read and review, I was instantly charmed by this cover as well as the synopsis and had to know more! Now, having completed it, I can honestly say that I absolutely enjoyed every minute of my time in Cimarron Creek and I can't wait to start reading the author's other series as well!
Although this is the second installment in the trilogy, each book stands on its own and was so well written with intriguing and fully developed characters that I never felt as though anything was lacking. While there are quite a few characters to keep track of to include their individual paths throughout the course of the novel, in Cabot's deft hand, none of that becomes overwhelming or confusing. She is able to effortlessly weave the plot and subplots together so that everything becomes integral to the story. Smooth transitions and steady pacing helped build these many interwoven relationships into a rich and multilayered story that kept me turning the pages! Don't let the romance genre fool you! Cabot has crafted a believable love story that is filled with elements of suspense, mystery, and history with a gentle sprinkling of Christian messages to guide us along the way. It is always so refreshing to read about characters living beyond themselves and trying to make a difference in the community and world around them. Catherine and Austin truly embodied that spirit, and through them, Cabot took this light romance to an inspiring level.
Additionally, two children, Seth and Hannah, are prominently featured, and I was greatly impressed by Cabot's ability to give each of them a voice within this story. They too face hardships and struggles that need addressing, and their characterization is just as well done as any of the adults if not better.
Overall, this was an incredibly heartwarming story that I do hope you will read! I'm looking forward to returning to Cimarron Creek in the next book, but for now, you can find me behind the pages of the first book, A Stolen Heart.
I slightly stepped out of my comfort zone when I decided to read this one, and while not the best way to go about choosing books to read and review, I was instantly charmed by this cover as well as the synopsis and had to know more! Now, having completed it, I can honestly say that I absolutely enjoyed every minute of my time in Cimarron Creek and I can't wait to start reading the author's other series as well!
Although this is the second installment in the trilogy, each book stands on its own and was so well written with intriguing and fully developed characters that I never felt as though anything was lacking. While there are quite a few characters to keep track of to include their individual paths throughout the course of the novel, in Cabot's deft hand, none of that becomes overwhelming or confusing. She is able to effortlessly weave the plot and subplots together so that everything becomes integral to the story. Smooth transitions and steady pacing helped build these many interwoven relationships into a rich and multilayered story that kept me turning the pages! Don't let the romance genre fool you! Cabot has crafted a believable love story that is filled with elements of suspense, mystery, and history with a gentle sprinkling of Christian messages to guide us along the way. It is always so refreshing to read about characters living beyond themselves and trying to make a difference in the community and world around them. Catherine and Austin truly embodied that spirit, and through them, Cabot took this light romance to an inspiring level.
Additionally, two children, Seth and Hannah, are prominently featured, and I was greatly impressed by Cabot's ability to give each of them a voice within this story. They too face hardships and struggles that need addressing, and their characterization is just as well done as any of the adults if not better.
Overall, this was an incredibly heartwarming story that I do hope you will read! I'm looking forward to returning to Cimarron Creek in the next book, but for now, you can find me behind the pages of the first book, A Stolen Heart.
bellesmoma2021's review against another edition
5.0
A Borrowed Dream (2018) by Amanda Cabot is the second book in her Cimarron Creek series. This book comes in all forms including eBook, and is 347 pages in length. With a full-time job and a very busy five-year old, A Borrowed Dream took me four days to read. I received a review copy of this novel in paperback form from Revell Books. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give A Borrowed Dream 5 STARS. This story is a Christian Historical Romance.
A Borrowed Dream has a little bit of everything -- a sweet friendship that becomes a wonderful romance, good friends who can be counted on for a laugh and guidance, a bit of suspense and mystery, a colorful town full of various personalities, a couple of the cutest children who manage to wriggle into the reader's heart, and a two of the most vile of villains. There is definitely no way to be bored by this book!
Catherine Whitfield is the main character of this book, and boy does she hold a grudge! She hates doctors. The local doctor of Cimarron Creek single-handedly killed Catherine's mother due to archaic medical practices. Now, Catherine does everything in her power to keep people as far away from the town doctor as possible. I can honestly say that I have never read a book before that dealt with a character hating on a medical professional, and I admit I found it interesting. In fact, I even found myself rallying to Catherine's side as I can completely relate to Catherine's feelings. Due to serious doctor negligence, my husband and I almost lost our daughter when she was three months old. Only by the grace of God, and one fantastic Children's Hospital Emergency Team, did my daughter survive the gross negligence. To this day, I am always hesitant to take my daughter to anyone but her wonderful pediatrician. I do have a slight distrust of doctors. I mean, it's called "practicing medicine." That doesn't really instill in me a sense that doctors know what they are doing. As I was reading, all of the old feelings of mistrust were rising up in me. It was at that moment that I realized one very big theme of this book -- forgiveness. Neither the fictional Catherine, nor the very real me, should hold grudges against people. And, we definitely shouldn't hold prejudices against an entire group of people because of the actions of one. That completely goes against everything Jesus teaches. Halfway through this book, I realized I still needed to forgive the doctors who did not treat my daughter appropriately. I needed to forgive and move on. It was like God reached into my heart and told me, "Nicole, it's time to let that anger go." I love that God was able to work through this wonderful story and change my heart for the better!
This book does deal with some really ugly truths. As a warning to sensitive readers, child abuse, rape, adoption, murder-suicide, and the criminal underbelly of society are all topics dealt with in this novel. I felt these topics were handled in a very respectful manner, but I do think it should be known going into this novel that things get very heavy. With that said, it is a lovely story of friendship, protection, forgiveness, and grace as well. Literally, this book has it all!
Overall, A Borrowed Dream is a very well-written, well-crafted story that I highly recommend. It is a fast-paced and highly engaging read. I very much look forward to book 3 in this series. If you are looking for a book that is "un-put-downable" and forces the reader to really look inside to the prejudices that may be within, then I recommend running to the nearest bookstore and purchasing a copy of A Borrowed Dream. You will not be disappointed!
A Borrowed Dream has a little bit of everything -- a sweet friendship that becomes a wonderful romance, good friends who can be counted on for a laugh and guidance, a bit of suspense and mystery, a colorful town full of various personalities, a couple of the cutest children who manage to wriggle into the reader's heart, and a two of the most vile of villains. There is definitely no way to be bored by this book!
Catherine Whitfield is the main character of this book, and boy does she hold a grudge! She hates doctors. The local doctor of Cimarron Creek single-handedly killed Catherine's mother due to archaic medical practices. Now, Catherine does everything in her power to keep people as far away from the town doctor as possible. I can honestly say that I have never read a book before that dealt with a character hating on a medical professional, and I admit I found it interesting. In fact, I even found myself rallying to Catherine's side as I can completely relate to Catherine's feelings. Due to serious doctor negligence, my husband and I almost lost our daughter when she was three months old. Only by the grace of God, and one fantastic Children's Hospital Emergency Team, did my daughter survive the gross negligence. To this day, I am always hesitant to take my daughter to anyone but her wonderful pediatrician. I do have a slight distrust of doctors. I mean, it's called "practicing medicine." That doesn't really instill in me a sense that doctors know what they are doing. As I was reading, all of the old feelings of mistrust were rising up in me. It was at that moment that I realized one very big theme of this book -- forgiveness. Neither the fictional Catherine, nor the very real me, should hold grudges against people. And, we definitely shouldn't hold prejudices against an entire group of people because of the actions of one. That completely goes against everything Jesus teaches. Halfway through this book, I realized I still needed to forgive the doctors who did not treat my daughter appropriately. I needed to forgive and move on. It was like God reached into my heart and told me, "Nicole, it's time to let that anger go." I love that God was able to work through this wonderful story and change my heart for the better!
This book does deal with some really ugly truths. As a warning to sensitive readers, child abuse, rape, adoption, murder-suicide, and the criminal underbelly of society are all topics dealt with in this novel. I felt these topics were handled in a very respectful manner, but I do think it should be known going into this novel that things get very heavy. With that said, it is a lovely story of friendship, protection, forgiveness, and grace as well. Literally, this book has it all!
Overall, A Borrowed Dream is a very well-written, well-crafted story that I highly recommend. It is a fast-paced and highly engaging read. I very much look forward to book 3 in this series. If you are looking for a book that is "un-put-downable" and forces the reader to really look inside to the prejudices that may be within, then I recommend running to the nearest bookstore and purchasing a copy of A Borrowed Dream. You will not be disappointed!