Dreams Rekindled

Written by Amanda Cabot

Narrated by Barbara McCulloh

He's bound and determined to find peace … but she's about to stir things up

Dorothy Clark dreams of writing something that will challenge people as much as Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin seems to have. But in 1850s
Mesquite Springs, there are few opportunities for writers—until newspaperman Brandon Holloway arrives, that is.

Brandon Holloway has seen the disastrous effects of challenging others. He has no intention of repeating that mistake. Instead of following his dreams, he's
committed to making a new—and completely uncontroversial—start in the Hill Country.

As Dorothy's involvement in the fledgling newspaper grows from convenient to essential, her place in Brandon's heart does the same. But before romance can
bloom, Dorothy and Brandon must work together to discover who's determined to divide the town and destroy Brandon's livelihood.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 2, 2021
• ISBN: 9781705017081

Amanda Cabot

Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of After the Shadows and Against the Wind, as well as several historical and contemporary romance series, including Mesquite Springs, Cimarron Creek Trilogy, Texas Crossroads, Texas Dreams, and Westward Winds. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers' Best. She lives in Wyoming. Learn more at AmandaCabot.com.

Reviews for Dreams Rekindled

[simmmba · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A truly excellent historical fiction novel! I enjoyed every aspect. The storyline was interesting and held my attention. The characters were also well-developed and realistically written. I especially enjoyed Dorothy, and appreciated her struggles as she moved toward her goal of being a writer.As an added bonus, I felt that I learned a lot about the history and daily life in the 1850s.All in all, a fabulous book!

[grammy57 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I enjoyed the book, but it took me awhile to realize it was book 2 in the Mesquite Springs series. It was a slow start for me, but the book had romance and mystery intertwined. This is a non-preachy Christian book. I truly am enjoying the series but enjoyed the first book more. If you like historical fiction and want a good, clean read, you will enjoy this book.

[stardust_fiddle · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

As much as I enjoyed “Out of the Embers,” I have to say that I loved “Dreams Rekindled” even more. There will be one more book in this trilogy, and I presume that it will also have a fire-inspired title. Symbolic of so many things, in this case I personally think that the connotation evokes a sense of renewal and the presence of the Holy Spirit. While the books could be read as standalones, the stories have much more depth when read in their proper order; the backgrounds of the characters and of Mesquite Springs itself all contribute to the series as a whole, and seeing how they connect enhances the impact.Combining romance and suspense with the happenings of small-town Mesquite Springs, Texas in the 1850s, Amanda Cabot tells the story of two people on a mission to take a new direction in life—one that sets them straight in each other’s path. Sister to Wyatt from the first book in the trilogy, Dorothy Clark dreams of a career as a writer, fueled by the recent publication of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.” Brandon Holloway seeks a quiet town to start over and establish his newspaper after an editorial brings devastation. However, “A newspaper is more than entertainment or simply reporting what happened. When an editor sees important issues, it’s his responsibility to bring them to everyone’s attention,” according to Dorothy. Truly, no matter what our past and present struggles, the Lord can use them for good in ways that we would never have thought possible, and usually there is a part of the resolution that speaks directly to us as a special nudge from God. “Dreams Rekindled” raises issues that are mirrored in our current society. One of these is the feeling of guilt over perceived culpability in an unexpected situation over which someone had no control, as is the case with Brandon. Most of us have experienced this to some degree at one time or another, blaming ourselves for something beyond our control and thereby carrying a heavy burden that was never meant for our shoulders. Sowing division also plays a large role in the story as well as in today’s world. Then, as now, pitting citizens against one another is a sure way to tear a community apart and ultimately destroy it. “Dreams Rekindled” illustrates how this is so often done through nefarious means, planting lies and turning people against one another. As the apostle Paul exhorts in 2 Corinthians 13:11: “Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”One of the prominent themes in the novel is forgiveness. Forgiveness of self and forgiveness of others. Compassion and empathy go a long way toward healing wounds, especially when we seek to understand someone else’s point of view and perspective. Our own might not change, and while the other person may be in the wrong, some understanding can encourage better conduct and communication in the future. That is, after all, part of our mission as Christians: to be encouragers and to communicate well with the Lord and as witnesses for our faith. As Dorothy thinks to herself, “What an amazing answer to prayer.” I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It is always interesting to read about how life was in the past. Dorothy want to do more to get herself and her writing out there but due to the town she lives in that is just not possible. I like seeing how she was able to take advantage of an opportunity she was given and was able to come together with Brandon to make sure that both of their new opportunities were able to continue. An enjoyable read that lets you think.

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I had read the first book in this series and so enjoyed it. It took me a bit to realize that this was book two. It has romance, humor, suspense and danger all rolled into one! Dorothy Clark has decided to be a confirmed spinster. After watching her mother’s emotional breakdown after the death of Dorothy’s Dad, she has decided no love is worth that. She never wants to put her children through such trauma. Her dream is to become a writer, but this is a hard road to travel for a woman in the 1850’s. Brandon Holloway moves to Mesquite Springs with the goal of starting a newspaper. All he has is his printing press and some heavy baggage from the past. He is impressed by the serene spirit and harmony of the community. Things quickly change when an outsider moves there with ulterior motives which will threaten the town’s peaceful way of life and endanger many. The excitement in the book kept me turning pages! So many times I wished I could warn Dorothy and Brandon what was going on! The lessons in the story of personal growth and leaving the past behind were phenomenal, and they involved seeing the truth rather than being guided by emotions. A book you will want to read, but if you read at bedtime, start early because you won’t want to put it down! I cannot wait for book number three!I received this book from Library Thing’s Early Reviewers. The opinions I have stated are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Here I am, the woman who wanted to change the world with her words, but I rarely put my deepest feelings into words.""Those are the hardest words to express, because they are the most important."Dorothy Clark has always wanted to be a writer, but writing for a newspaper isn't what she had in mind. It may have been, however, the best decision that she's ever made because it allows her to become better acquainted with the owner, Brandon Holloway. Arriving in Mesquite Springs, hoping for a fresh start, Brandon soon encounters unsettling events that threaten him and the other residents of this small Texas town during the 1850s.I enjoyed seeing Dorothy and Brandon as they formed a friendship from their working relationship, and I longed for them to find a deeper connection. There are several other characters, and an adorable dog named Nutmeg, who add interest to the story, and a villain who evokes both anger and pity. The addition of danger, intrigue, and strong faith elements make this a book that you won't soon forget!Dreams Rekindled is a wonderful historical fiction novel that stresses forgiveness and second chances, and I look forward to seeing what is ahead for Mesquite Springs, Texas.I received a copy of this book from Revell. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

[drebbles · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Dorothy Clark has long thought that her biggest dreams will never come true: being a newspaper reporter and falling love and getting married. But when Brandon Holloway comes to town and starts a newspaper, her first dream comes true and, if she opens her heart, her second dream may also come true. But Phil Blakeslee, also new in town, wants Brandon out of the way and will seemingly stop at nothing to get rid of him. Will Dorothy’s dreams be shattered once again?Set in 1856, “Dreams Rekindled”, the second book in Amanda Cabot’s Mesquite Spring series, is a nicely done historical romance. Although I did not read the first book in the series, “Out of the Embers”, I was immediately drawn into this book and the story and Dorothy, Brandon, and even Phil. I love the relationship between Dorothy and Brandon – Cabot takes her times with this, slowly revealing parts of Brandon’s past and why Dorothy thinks she can never marry – both are very well done and a tad heartbreaking. Their romance is ultimately very well done, believable and moving. As for Phil, he turned out to be a far more complex character than I expected and in the end I found his story to be heartbreaking.“Dreams Rekindled” is a nicely done historical romance.

[gincam · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Dreams Rekindled", set in Texas a few years before the Civil War, is the second book in author Amanda Cabot's "Mesquite Springs Series". Dorothy Clark is a young woman who dreams of a writing career that will take her beyond the town limits of Mesquite Springs. When Brandon Holloway comes to town to set up a newspaper office, Dorothy hopes it will be her chance to do more than work in the family-run restaurant, "Polly's Place". Another newcomer to Mesquite Springs, Phil Blakeslee, works for the mysterious "Mr. K'. who does not want the newspaper office to begin printing. As Dorothy and Brandon get to know each other and work together, their friendship becomes something more. Can they resolve issues both past and present and let faith guide them to a bright and shining future? In "Dreams Rekindled" we revisit the community of Mesquite Springs, touch base with familiar faces, and meet new friends. The mid-to-late 1800's are my favorite era, and I am an old newspaper gal myself. I very much enjoyed "Dreams Rekindled", and I look forward to future entries in this series.Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via LibraryThing

[eccl-3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Dreams Rekindled is the second book in the Mesquite Springs series written by Amanda Cabot. This story does take over where the first book left off but the author does a very good job of giving background information for those who have not read the first book.After the death of his father and destruction of his newspaper office, Brandon has moved to Mesquite Springs to start over. Dorothy is taking care of her sister-in-law's restaurant while she is on her honeymoon. Her dream is to be a writer. When she and Brandon become friends she is there to help him make a success of his newspaper.This is a cute, inspirational story that focuses on faith, family, and friends. I enjoyed the humor written into the story as well with the addition of a stray dog that quickly becomes important to Dorothy. While this is a historical romance story, this story also has some suspense written into it with the dealings of another newcomer and his associates. This is a well written story with few main characters so it is easy to follow along with them all. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through the Revell Reads Bloggers Program. This is my honest review.

[virginia51-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book will keep you up wanting to finish it. This has great romance and quite a bit of suspense. Some suspense is solved quickly but other suspense twists through the whole book. You might want to read the first book in the series to get an idea of the town and some of the characters plus it is also a wonderful story. I really like how strong Dorothy is and what a good man Brandon is. I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I received a copy of this book from Revell for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[kris_anderson-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Dreams Rekindled by Amanda Cabot is the 2nd book in the Mesquite Springs series. Dreams Rekindled can be read as a standalone for those who have not read Out of the Embers. I thought Dreams Rekindled was well-written with developed characters. Nutmeg, Dorothy’s rescue dog, was my favorite character. He is a clever and cute canine. I thought the author captured the time-period (button hooks, printing press, the printer’s type, a woman’s reticule, Uncle Tom’s Cabin) and the setting (especially the small-town feel). I enjoyed the beautiful descriptions of Mesquite Springs and the surrounding countryside. Dorothy Clark and Brandon Holloway are attracted to each other from the beginning, but grief and past events prevent them from acting on their feelings. I liked that the characters are realistic with strengths and weaknesses. To counteract the good guys, we have a villain. Phil Blakeslee arrives in town the same day as Brandon. He is an artist who is town for nefarious purposes. He is working for the mysterious Mr. K who has his own agenda for Mesquite Springs. Phil has a troubled background that has influenced his opinion of newsman and ministers. I like how everything came together in this story. Faith is woven into the story. It added just the right note. I enjoyed the suspense and mystery. It added depth to the story. I quickly turned the pages eager to see how this story would turn out. There are some unanswered questions at the end of the book. We will have to wait for the next installment to get those answers. Dreams Rekindled is a complex novel with family, friends, faith, hope, foul play, and forgiveness.

[squiresj_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Brandon arrives in Mesquite Springs to start over as a newspaper man. Dorothy is rilunning cafe for her sister-in-law who is on honeymoon. Dorothy dreams of being a writer. Phil comes to town to find land for his boss to purchase for a hotel. Each have different plans but their lives cross paths. Phil doesn't want a newspaper in the town so spreads rumors to shut it down. The town becomes divided. Brandon and Dorothy find their dreams. God brings Phil to him. I love all Amanda's books. I highly recommend.

[lamb521 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Title: Dreams Rekindled (Mesquite Springs #2)Author: Amanda CabotPages: 352Year: 2021Publisher: RevellMy rating: 4 out of 5 stars.Amanda Cabot is a new author for me, personally. I am thankful that I didn’t have to read book one to enjoy the second book in the current series. The first book of the series, Out of the Embers, tells the story of Evelyn Radcliff and Wyatt Clark. Dorothy Clark is Wyatt’s younger sister and has dreams of writing in an era where that was not the norm. However, Dorothy doesn’t much care and when a new person comes to the town where she lives to begin a newspaper, Dorothy is excited.Brandon Holloway comes to town but for a fresh start not to stir things up. When Dorothy becomes interested in the newspaper and with her enthusiasm, she just might help Brandon overcome his fears. Another character is introduced to readers and the town, Phil Blakeslee, but he doesn’t have the same goal as either Dorothy or Brandon, and he sets out to wreak havoc. Can Phil keep the paper from influencing the townsfolk?Amanda Cabot’s writing is not heavy and thought-provoking; it is lighthearted but with themes that do touch the heart. The setting is pre-civil war and in a small town where everybody pretty much is aware of all that is happening around them. The series is historical fiction, and I enjoyed seeing the novel’s plot progress and the characters interact in a way I see as predictable. Predictability is not necessarily a negative quality; I just prefer books that bring in a surprise now and again to keep me engaged.Reading is a gift and a joy, so I appreciate authors who share their imaginative tales. Perhaps the next book in the series or another book by the author will draw me into the pages. Why not pick up a copy and read the book for yourself and let me know what you think?Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.

[tabrowne · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

For so many books I wish I could give half stars. I truly struggle when having to decide on a full star up or down.This book is engaging and interesting. I read the first Mesquite Springs book prior to it but now that I've read the second one I know that it isn't necessary to read it first. It gives a little background but that isn't crucial to the second book at all.The author has written characters that are likable which was refreshing. People who are good but trying to be better. The villains are the more realistic mix of good and bad. This read is uplifting with plenty of excitement but still not quite the heavy dread you get with other mystery novels. It does have romance so a little something for everyone.I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes some mystery, romance, pretty scenery and not too heavy of a book. I wouldn't say cozy mystery though.

[chrirob · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Dorothy Clark may be working in Polly's Place Restaurant in her small hometown now; but she dreams of making a difference through her writing. When Brandon Holloway arrives in Mesquite Springs intending to start a newspaper, Dorothy is secretly thrilled! She may get her chance to become a journalist and bring about positive change to her fellow citizens. However, some people do not want a newspaper in town...and some people begin to focus their hostilities not only on the newspaper, but Brandon and Dorothy and others of Mesquite Springs. Can they work together to save not only the paper, but the town as well?This was a really good book and is Book 2 in the Mesquite Springs series. I have not read book 1, but I think I will pick it up - even if I know how it turned out!Thank you LibraryThing for the Advanced Readers Copy!

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved being back with these characters, and reuniting with old friends, now this is the second book in this series, but you won't be lost to read this one first.Unfortunately, Evil is lurking here in Mesquite Springs, but most won't see this wolf in sheep's clothing, but you will be wanting to warn them.There are some good life lessons here, feeling guilt, and not wanting to be hurt, and yet they don't really understand the whole story!We see how easily folks are led, and wish we could help, but, through the author, God is in control!Now I have to wait for the next book in this series, which can't come soon enough!I receive this book through the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review

[ecataldi-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A wonderful follow up to the Christian historical romance, Out of the Embers, that helps round out the quiet, quaint, and quintessential Texas town of Mesquite Springs. Readers don't need to have read the first book as this novel follows an entirely different person, Wyatt's younger sister, Dorothy. While her brother and his new wife are out honeymooning, Dorothy has taken over running the town's only restaurant, Polly's Place. While there she meets Brandon, a newcomer to town determined to start a newspaper. Dorothy loves writing and soon she's won over Brandon and has become invaluable to the little newspaper. What they don't realize is that another newcomer to town is out to start trouble, and the newspaper and their budding relationship are in for a rude awakening. Filled with well rounded and vulnerable characters - Dreams Rekindled shows how forgiveness and taking chances ultimately pave the way toward unity and love. Another great inspirational read from Amanda Cabot.

[milibrarian · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Dorothy is determined that she'll never marry after seeing her mother's grief and severe depression at her father's death. Instead, she dreams of writing something which will change people's lives. Little does she realize that her own dreams will change and can be fulfilled when two new men arrive in town. Brandon is starting a newspaper and hires Dorothy to write the social column while Phil is determined to drive out the newspaperman and preacher so that he can acquire land for the mysterious Mr. K. Things come to head when Brandon and Dorothy discover the truth about a visiting miracle-working revivalist.This is a very enjoyable read with believable characters. It is not preachy, but the character's Christian values are obvious. If there is a fault, it is (as is typical for the genre) that conflicts are resolved a little too neatly at the end. While this is the second in a series, it can be read as a stand alone. Recommended to lovers of romantic historical fiction.

[nancyluebke · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this clean romance. I received this for free and I voluntarily chose to review this. I've given it a 5* rating. I loved most of the characters and the way family was represented. Even when times were hard, family stuck together. I really liked how they tried to stick to their beliefs. I liked the ending, with it's inspiration.This will be coming out in March 2021.

[jjean7-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Well written, fast read - a good mystery - life in the 1800's - romance - family - friends- murder -It really covers it all in a very interesting story.