A Dream of Daring

by Gen LaGreca

AWARDS FOR A DREAM OF DARING:
Finalist in Regional Fiction, 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
Finalist in Multicultural Fiction, 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Recommended by BOOKLIST, FOREWORD, and MIDWEST BOOK REVIEW.

For readers of historical novels and thought-provoking fiction, here’s a new mystery and romance with a wholly original plot, set just prior to the Civil War, from the author of two award-winning novels, Gen LaGreca.

When a visionary inventor threatens the entrenched powers of the Old South, the result is murder.

Tom Edmunton, the science-minded son of a cotton planter, has designed the precursor of the tractor in antebellum Louisiana. He foresees a new age of mechanized farming that will empty the fields of men and supplant the South’s slavery system. But the planters of his town don’t like his big ideas about changing their world or the intensity with which he’s pursuing them.

As Tom hears the call of the new age, he also feels the pull of two women. Rachel, a senator’s daughter, loves him, but will she break with her family to stand by his side when the town rebukes him? Solo is the unbridled grassland filly, the feisty mulatto slave who despises Tom, along with every other man from the race that binds her. Rachel is free, but is her spirit chained? Solo is chained, but is her spirit free?

Tensions between Tom and the planters peak, and the tractor is stolen. “Then a shocking murder sets into motion inextricably linked events and revelations that will change life as they know it for Tom, Rachel, and Solo” (BOOKLIST).

Set at a crossroads of United States history, with an old epoch tumbling and the modern age gaining ground, this novel portrays the power struggles and clashing visions for the future of the people caught in the tumult.

This is a haunting tale of the Old South, with its sweeping fields of white-gold cotton, its majestic plantations, its elegant gentry, and its embattled slaves. Capturing the turbulent lead-up to the Civil War, this gripping work of historical fiction is a tribute to the timeless call of freedom that sounds in every person's heart. A ringing maverick spirit gives the novel widespread appeal beyond its historical genre.

As it delves into the souls of those who want to harness nature and those who want to harness other men, the novel poses questions for our own age: Which camp is on the rise today? Will it save us or destroy us?

A DREAM OF DARING STRONGLY APPEALS TO READERS OF:
Mystery, romance, and historical romantic suspense novels,
Multicultural and interracial romance,
United States and Civil War historical fiction,
Libertarian and thought-provoking fiction, and books with inspirational and important themes.

A DREAM OF DARING: inspiring the spirit through the enchantment of fiction.

SEE THE REVIEWS! Scroll down to see the enthusiastic Editorial Reviews for this exciting novel.

DON'T FORGET TO LOOK INSIDE! Go to Amazon and click on the LOOK INSIDE feature by the book cover to read the absorbing first pages.

EDITORIAL REVIEWS FOR A DREAM OF DARING:

“Throughout the narrative, LaGreca masterfully creates metaphors to explore her key themes. . . . A DREAM OF DARING is suspenseful. The crime at the center of the narrative will keep the reader guessing until the final revelation. . . . LaGreca’s exploration of how people respond to, and sometimes reject, change and progress is relevant for all generations.”
—ForeWord Reviews

"Old ways do not fade into the night quietly. A DREAM OF DARING is a novel set on the dawn of the industrial revolution. Tom Edmunton builds a proto-tractor, and tries to bring a world of change about Louisiana with his invention. But the whiplash is hard, as a loved one is killed, and his invention is stolen. (As Tom is) faced with a crossroads and the charms of multiple women, A DREAM OF DARING is an enticing blend of mystery and romance, much recommended reading."
—Midwest Book Review

"In 1859, Louisiana posed various challenges to its citizens, no matter their color, in LaGreca's thought-provoking second novel (after Noble Vision, 2005), a murder mystery set during a tumultuous period in American history. . . . (This tale) should attract readers interested in historical fiction set in the antebellum South."
—Booklist

“Grab your seat for a tumbling ride back to the high-stakes, hoop-flying, tumultuous time when cotton was king. Gen LaGreca takes you for a jaunt in her carriage through fields of fragrant words, luscious descriptions, and panoramic views. Hang on as the road gets bumpy, with zesty characters stirring up the dirt and sudden plot twists swerving you onto uncharted paths. Wait, the hooves have left the ground and you’re airborne till the end. You’ll come back excited, enchanted, and enlightened.”
—Barry Farber, host of The Barry Farber Show and author of Cocktails with Molotov

“I thoroughly enjoyed the plot twists and turns, the passionate inter-...

Genres: Romance, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Fiction, Historical Romance, Ebooks, Drama

283 pages, Paperback

First published January 14, 2013

About the author

Genevieve (Gen) LaGreca writes novels with innovative plots, strong romance, and themes that glorify personal freedom and independence.

Gen’s debut novel is Noble Vision. This romantic medical thriller won two important national literary awards. It was a ForeWord magazine Book of the Year Finalist. It was also a finalist in the Writer's Digest International Book Awards contest—one of only six picks honoring general fiction published by independent presses. Noble Vision garnered praise from magazine magnate Steve Forbes, Nobel laureate Milton Friedman, syndicated columnist Walter E. Williams, and other influential thinkers.

Showing her virtuosity across genre lines, Gen’s second offering is the historical novel A Dream of Daring. This antebellum murder mystery took Finalist in Regional Fiction in the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards and also Finalist in Multicultural Fiction in the same contest.

Gen's third novel is the science-fiction adventure and love story, Fugitive From Asteron.

On the playful side, Gen gives us her breezy, romantic short story, Three Days to Find a Wife. This busy writer is currently at work on her fourth novel. She also wrote the screenplay for Noble Vision.

In addition to fiction, Gen also writes social and political commentaries, which have appeared in Forbes, The Orange County Register, The Daily Caller, Real Clear Markets, Mises Daily, The Gainesville Sun, and other publications.

Her short book of essays, The Pioneer vs. the Welfare State, combines her engaging writing style with in-depth analysis of urgent issues and concerns.

Gen appeared on The Glenn Beck Show on national television to discuss her provocative article, “The Self-Help Guide to Living in a Free Society,” published in The New Individualist magazine.

Gen has been a lively guest speaker at local, regional, and national events, including Students for Liberty and FreedomFest conferences, where she discusses the powerful role of fiction in portraying ideas, as well as other topics. She’s had the distinction of being an invited participant at Liberty Fund colloquia.

On the personal side, Gen is engaged to a university professor; she and he live in the Midwest.

Prior to fiction writing, Gen worked as a pharmaceutical chemist, business consultant, and corporate writer. She holds an undergraduate degree in chemistry from Polytechnic Institute of New York and a graduate degree in philosophy from Columbia University.

Her variety of life experiences—in science and business, as well as in philosophy and writing—brings vibrant characters, urgent issues, thematic depth, and an outside-the-box approach to Gen’s novels. Their sweeping themes of self-sovereignty and the triumph of the individual attract thoughtful readers across genre lines.

To contact Gen, send her a message: genlagreca[at]hotmail[dot]com.

Reviews

[Patrick Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jan. 2018(?) Loved it! What a unique book.

Fascinating plot. Very tough to put down and when i did, I had to get back to it - FAST.

Important ideas - no fluff.

Very insightful characterizations - though well drawn as individuals, they are classic types too. The epilogue was especially neat in connecting the specific characters to the basic types, and updating them for more modern times.

Especially exciting and meaningful for those interested in history, the civil war, slavery, business, technology, morality, economics, psychology and/or more.

----
I have a few nits with some plot points that did not quite work for me, but compared with the overall joy I got from reading the book, they count for little.

[Eddie Novak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful tale of Romance. While there was a love story, the romantic view of man's place in the universe is what makes this an inspirational reading experience. My favorite part of the story was transformation of the main character's "naivety" as he learns the true nature and corruption of the Old South.

[James Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

While reading A Dream of Daring I was reminded of John Stuart Mill who wrote in chapter three of On Liberty (“On Individuality, as One of the Elements of Well-being”) a passionate defense of individuality and diversity, and the liberty that allows them to flourish.
Gen LaGreca in A Dream of Daring has written a passionate historical novel where the wings of the idea of freedom of thought, liberty, and individual responsibility allow the hero and heroine to achieve their dreams. Added to the historical setting of the antebellum South is a suspense-filled murder mystery with plot developments, including the theft of Thomas's revolutionary invention, building to an exciting action-filled and emotionally satisfying ending. More important are the ideas that motivate the characters furnishing a foundation for the story. This makes A Dream of Daring a great novel.
The author demonstrates-- through the actions of the hero, Thomas Edmunton, and the heroine, introduced as "Solo"; but also the actions of their antagonists-- a battle of good versus evil, the willingness to take bold action versus the foolish consistency of attachment to a dying cultural tradition, and the importance of moral principles for man's survival. The characters are developed effectively beginning with the hero who at the onset of the novel is "out of step with the world around him", but who gradually discovers both why that is true and what the implications of it are. The demonstration of the importance of freedom, responsibility, and learning occurs not only through the heroic actions of Thomas and Solo, but also through those of the supporting characters, particularly Jerome who flourishes once he is given the freedom to pursue his passion by Thomas. The development of characters and the ideas they represent is presented as sort of mystery of discovery echoing the mystery of murder and the theft of Thomas's invention. It is the interplay of these ideas, the development and growth of the characters, and the resolution of the action that impressed this reader. The author wrote with a lucid prose style and enriched the story with mythological and literary references. These factors combined with the power of ideas lifted the novel beyond the bounds of history and suspense and into the realm of inspiration. It was a journey that could only be taken on the wings of ideas.

[Marina Fontaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another stellar work by Gen LaGreca. An unlikely blend of genres (mystery, romance and historical fiction) works beautifully to drive home the central point that should be heeded by everyone during our uncertain times. No matter our station in life, or the social/political environment, the worst prison is always one of our own making, but by the same token true freedom is always inside of us. Sure, families, laws and customs play a role and set limitations, sometimes in cruel and unfair way, but the fundamental choices determining who we are- those are ours alone. I will leave the twists and turns of the plot for the reader to discover, and there are certainly some good ones, but this novel is so much more than its plot and characters. Probably the most inspirational new work I've read in years outside of Christian fiction.

One final note. My initial impression was that the epilogue went on for too long, having tied up all of the plot, to drive home the parallels between the world depicted in the novel and our own. I thought it was unnecessary as the body of the story has already covered the territory. Then I turned on the news, and ...nope, I was wrong. Whether from from ignorance or willful blindness, most people, today, would not in fact make the connections on their own, and as a result would miss the point. And that just can't be allowed to happen, not with these ideas, not if we are to hope for a better, freer world that the heroes of the novel imagined so vividly in their dreams and risked so much to try to create.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dream of Daring
Author: GEN LAGRECA

Visionaries are often shunned and people that see the future unfold in ways that are not traditional often encounter resistance. Established ways are often the norm and anyone that dares to want to change things instills fear, anger and sometimes treachery within the minds of those that are against what is being presented. One young inventor named Tom Edmunton would encounter more than just hidden obstacles. Coming home for the funeral of someone close to him, to support the family of a young woman whose family hoped to make his wife, Tom finds his life about to change. Geared toward science, running a cotton plantation and a bank his goals and endeavors would change if what he created and hoped to market would succeed. The son of a Louisiana planter, creating a motorized tractor, using gasoline for the first time would revolutionize the way the land would be plowed and ease up the amount of time men would have to sow the soil. Imagine what this could do for the plantation owners? But, slavery was in place and many did not want to lose control over the people who provided the labor for their farms. Nor did they want to have to pay anyone to run the machinery, work the land or reap any of the profits. But, this was just the beginning of what would prove to be more than just an invention. As Tom explains his thoughts, shows his invention to Wiley Barnwell, the Senator who was like a father to him. A man named Cooper and another named Nash who are vehemently against what he wants to do as he explains the need for more funds to operate it and the reasons why it was housed in the barn and where he hoped to bring it the following day. The excitement was electrifying and his explanation quite compelling but the end result tragic.


Change is a dangerous word and creates fear in those that do not understand what it means or think it endangers what they already have. What would happen if slaves did not pick the cotton and help cultivate the land? What would happen if they were given too much freedom? As the author shares with us the thoughts of this man named Cooper and we hear his fears and concerns it alerts us to the fact that something might happen to change everything. But, someone close to him is killed and Tom feels responsible for the Senator’s wife and daughter as he travels to find his stolen invention but instead comes upon an injured horse a young mulatto slave and the end result was not exactly what he expected. Freeing her horse and helping to bring him to safety what this girl does is definitely not what any slave should dare to do and if caught she would face a harsh punishment. The new age is coming to the South and things are about to change. Some insist that slaves are the only ones that can complete the tasks on the plantations do the heavy work and are definitely needed and not to be freed where others are more concerned with the new technology, allowing everyone to benefit and not keeping people in bondage. Imagine why these slave owners would dislike his motorized tractor the age of mechanized farming which would possibly prove that slaves and the entire slave system was no longer needed.


When Tom relates to the Senator’s wife and daughter about his death their reaction seems cold, unfeeling and definitely does not fit how most would react to the death of a husband of father. Each one seems consumed with their own private needs, the running of their plantation, funeral expenses and the inconveniences his death has caused. Rachel appears to really care about Tom and her mother becomes dependent on him but both seem absorbed in their own private worlds and it comes across as kind of callus as this wonderful young man takes on responsibilities that most would not because the Senator backed him and believed in his invention. But, when he discusses it with Rachel she is adamant about her feelings about change, the new age and his invention as being something he should table or put on the back burner in order to run his father’s bank and plantation. Rachel seems locked into the old ways and although she has been presented with the freedom to soar, run her own dance studio with Tom’s backing she prefers to honor her mother’s wishes and live by her father’s creed.

Added in is Ted Cooper in jail and arrested for the murder but even though he was seen standing over the Senator’s body does it mean he is guilty? Another man seems to have his heart set on marrying Rachel but what are his real motives and intentions? Why would the Senator give his daughter’s hand in marriage to a man who cannot manage his own finances, run his own plantation and seems to want to use her as a bargaining chip in a business deal.
Although Rachel was free her manner seemed constrained. Then along comes a free spirit, but slave named Solo and things change for both Tom and his stable hand and slave Jerome or as he was referred to as Tom’s chief factotum. The friction between these two slaves runs high but the end result will definitely make you wonder just who is running the show. Solo, literate, smart and cunning in her own way manages to convince Tom to allow her to stay out of the kitchen, not sew and definitely not work in the fields and trade places with Jerome. Just what would a man do in the kitchen? Well! How about becoming a head chef? When push comes to shove and her voice is heard what happens might make some slave owners cringe but not Tom. Added in we learn more about Nash and his desire to undermine Tom, take Rachel for his own and convince her to negate his friendship for his. Although Tom wants to help her mother and her family the mayor paints an entirely different picture of the late Senator that makes Tom wonder whether he really knew him at all.


A new age with new ideas and new implements and tools to make planting easier, help with picking the cotton and cultivating the land and yet so many against change. Solo, a mulatto slave, hates Tom at first, runs her mouth at every turn and yet manages to act as a free spirit where Rachel although living a lavish life seems tied to the old ways and afraid of change. A literate slave that paves the way for others to follow and a story so powerful you will wonder how the North managed to stay out of the way of the South for so long and how so many enslaved lived in fear. Claiming that they care for their slaves, protected their young and provided for their every need, the mayor and others justified keeping these people in bondage. But, why would Tom who owned slaves offer to pay for their passage to freedom? What would happen if they escaped and what would happen to him if someone found out?


The story runs deeper and is more intricate than most think as we get to know Solo, realize that she is a lot more than just a slave. She is literate and can really help Tom in many more ways than just threatening Jerome. As we hear the banter between Jerome and Solo you get to know their strengths, weaknesses and realize that she is relentless, smart, sharp and eventually will get both Tom and Jerome to see things her way. As Jerome loves to cook and always wanted to become a chef, and Solo loves horses they decide to trade jobs and then things really soar for them both. Jerome invents a special chocolate treat, Tom helps him to create his own business and the many of the business owners are thrilled and order his special treat. Just why would Tom want to help a slave to earn money? How would this affect his standing in the community? The trial and the witnesses were also questioned and Ted Cooper is found guilty will he be hanged for the Senator’s murder? Who else could have killed him and what part does Tom’s invention really play in all of this? Was it stolen to destroy his dream or was it stolen for someone else to profit?


When the truth about Solo is revealed and the connection to the Barnwell family told you won’t believe what happens and how Tom comes to her aid. Revenge, lies, deceit, power plays, narrow minded people set in their own ways and a simple birthmark that would change many lives. Who killed Barnwell and why? You have to learn that for yourself to understand the circumstances and decide who is really guilty. As Solo’s birthright is revealed and Tom’s role is brought to light Rachel and Charlotte choose sides and whose you won’t believe. Loyalties change, words are harsh and one woman’s life will be destroyed. When the end finally comes and the world is free from slavery just who avails themselves of the freedoms and becomes their own master and who will forever be chained? The new age is there but the old values somehow prevail just how you will have to learn for yourself. A Dream of Daring: so many wanted to soar like Icarus but not too close to the sun or their wings will burn. Who succeeds and who gets caught in the crossfire? Author GEN LAGRECA takes readers back to a time when masters whipped slaves, berated other humans, were only concerned about keeping them down and never allowed them to think, feel, work or choose their own destiny. Tom Edmunton: Dared to dream and dared to allow himself to teach others to understand the meaning of freedom. One great book for students in college and high school to read and learn more about the South and slavery. One great book that deserved the Forward Review’s finalist award.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s the mid-nineteenth century in antebellum Louisiana where slavery thrives, racism is a way of life, and people are set in their ways. Along comes a creative genius who thinks outside of the box, threatening to upset the “Southern” way of life. Upon a death in his family, Tom Edmunton has come home after years spent living and embracing the lifestyle and ideals of the North. He invents a motorized tractor that will revolutionize the way of planting and reduce the need for so many slaves. But it also threatens to shift the balance of power that has existed for so long and he meets with vehement resistance, a mysterious murder and the theft of his invention.
An intelligent, young mulatto woman has caught his eye and his heart, with her fiery resolve in the face of discrimination, kept in her place because of the color of her skin. Even she does not believe fully in his dreams for the future. They become adversarial misfits drawn to each other in a forbidden love.
As the story slowly builds, we are given a stark view into the archaic attitudes, the brutality of slavery, as well as the fear of change and the unknown so great that man will go to extremes to prevent it. The culmination of these events brings shocking revelations and will tear at you emotionally.
Gen LaGreca has crossed genres with her historical/mystery/romance that provides colorful scenic background descriptions as well as a depth to each character’s personality that drew me in with uncomfortable interest. The acceptance of racism, a ‘caste’ system, if you will, was appalling. Her epilogue, while wrapping things up well, also drove home the point that what society accepts, is of our own making. This is an eye-opening-must read for everyone!

A copy was provided by NetGalley and Winged Victory Press in exchange for my honest review.

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[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐💫 (3.5, rounding up to 4)
#adreamofdaring
#genlagreca
#historicalfiction
#historicalfictionbooks
#antebellumsouth
#mystery
#mysterybooks

A murder mystery that takes place in the Antebellum South. The main character invents a primitive "tractor" to replace man hours of slaves. It doesn't get a great reception. "You can't change the south, anyone who tries is doomed." The respected state Senator is murdered and the tractor disappeared.

Several characters in the book get accused. Then acquitted or alibied (if that's a word 🤷‍♀️). Finally the twist of who really done it. Then the chase.

Very mediocre story. Worth reading. Told well enough. Just didn't give me the spark that made me want to keep picking it up to find out whodunit. No magical descriptions. I've been reading some great books lately. I've gotten spoiled. Though this did describe treatment of slaves. And the way the plantations were run accurately enough. No special characters I fell in love with or even hated.

The best part of the book was the way the epilogue was told. I wish the entire book was written the same way.

I chose this book because I'm doing a buzzwordathon from Goodreads. This month's word was "dream". I searched my kindle. I already owned this book. I'm glad that I got to review a book without many reviews. I love helping the little guy/girl.

#bookstagram #booknerds #bookworm #booklover #bookdragon #readalot #ilovereading #inkdrinker #librarymouse #booknerdbookreviews #bookaddict #bookaholic #bookrecommendation #bookreview #booknerdigan #bookish

[Ann Bridges · Rating 3 out of 5]

The message of the book is compelling--how the South's system of slavery handcuffed not just the Negro slaves, but the entire society by limiting their freedom of choice, of speech, of morality. However, LaGreca's style rambles into telling the reader her points, as opposed to dramatizing the issues and letting the reader reach his/her own conclusion. While the characters had potential to grow and change within the setting, LaGreca failed to connect with me, at least, at the emotional, engaged level necessary to make this a great novel.

[Sandra Irvin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Only read part of it. Not to my taste

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Desperate Desire to Cling to a Way of Life That's Passing Leads to Murder

In the South before the Civil War, the citizens of Greenbriar, Louisiana, are trying to cling to the life they understand. Unlike the other planters, Tom Edmunton, who spent time in the North, is reaching for the future. He is convinced that his invention, a tractor, will lead to a new age in agriculture where slaves no longer work the fields and technology will bring increased prosperity; but not everyone in Greenbriar, Louisiana sees it that way.

Senator Wiley Barnwell hopes to have Tom for his son-in-law. He hauled the tractor to Crossroads, his deceased sister-in-law's plantation, so Tom could escort his wife and daughter to the funeral. That night the tractor disappears and someone stabs Wiley in the chest killing him. Ted Cooper, who was trying to buy Crossroads, was found bending over the body with bloody hands. Tom is convinced that stealing his tractor was the motive for the murder. Cooper feared the machine and wanted to destroy it, but is Tom right, or was there another motive for murder?

The old South comes to life in this historical novel. The plot is full of twists, and the message, trying to cling to a way of life that's passing, is excellent. However, the writing is pedestrian. Conversations often read like information dumps, and the pace is slow. The characters are stock Southerners: the honest sheriff, the dishonest politician, the spoiled beauty, and the beautiful slave.

I can recommend this book if you looking for a historical novel about the South before the Civil War. The murder mystery is an added benefit, and the underlying theme, struggling to hold on to a way of life that's passing, is well done. It is also a cautionary tale for today.

I reviewed this book for Net Galley.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a beautifully crafted story, the author brings a tale of love, bias, racism, murder and going against the grain all set in the antebellum south of 1859 Louisiana. While often we like to believe that we have moved forward from those days, when the fear of the different was all consuming, the epilogue presents the correlations in an easy to follow manner: neatly tying the past to the present and providing a guidepost for those who are unfamiliar with the genesis of the still held misconceptions of the past.

With main characters so wholly different in personality and ambition from their predestined societal roles, the unusual blend of mystery and romance with the tensions provided by bucking the constricts of society’s expectations, the story has a slow but engaging effect on readers. Multiple questions and options for actions, many of which ‘felt’ antiquated and all due to LaGreca’s skill keep you turning the page to see what advance or roadblock will happen next. The characters feel real, the villains are often unexpected and far different from what you expect, this is a story that will provide a background into the days before the Emancipation proclamation in a way that no dry history text will do. Well researched and written with a descriptive hand that never feels as if the information is presented just as filler, this is a story that will appeal to readers of all ages.

I received an eBook from the publisher for honest review via NetGalley. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Cheryl M-M · Rating 4 out of 5]

There were two hearts beating beneath the words in this book. The one that wants to tackle history and events that shaped the past and in doing so the future. Then there is the one that just wants to tell the reader an enjoyable story. It is often quite hard to do that simultaneously. The end result is a combination of the history of the South (US) with a grand portion of agricultural history and topped off with a murder mystery set in the pre- civil war era.
I enjoyed the information on the first engine driven farm machinery in relation to automated labour vs slave labour and the way the plantation owners not only refused but also halted a natural progression into a new age. The author also made an attempt to lay bare an understanding of how the slave owners thought of their slaves. At the same time the main character is introduced as a person opposed to the inequality of those times. A man who strives to create an equal setting for the slaves, although be it with his often condescending nature, the point he is trying to make is heard loud and clear.
The main character tended to go on and on about his invention so much so that it became repetitive. There was no need for the reader to go over that information multiple
times.
Overall I found the story enjoyable but a little overdramatic at times. I didn't let that keep me from the by-product of info which I took from the story.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley.

[Lorin Cary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its 1859 in Louisiana and Thomas Edmunton dreams of a New Age in the South, one free of slavery and where each person is their own master. He returns from engineering school in Philadelphia to the plantation he's inherited and things don't go as he expects. The internal combustion tractor he's invented is stolen; his apparent champion, Senator Barnwell, is murdered; and Rachael Barnwell, his heart throb, turns her back on theater (which she got involved with while at a finishing school in Philadelphia) and reveals herself to be shallow and vindictive. Tom skirts the law when he rescues and buys then aids to escape a slave woman (Solo, Ladybug) who turns out to have a remarkable past. His thoughts and actions about how slaves should be treated conflict with local practices as well and that adds a further layer to the story.

It's a good read and the author has done quite a bit of historical research to back it up. The rigidity of thought among planters is shown well as is the sense of an impending crisis with the North. The major characters are pretty well defined. The story moves along and obstacles aplenty appear to keep the tension up. The negative is the author's tendency to use massive blocks of dialogue, as when Tom probes the Senator's murder or when he learns about Solo/Ladybug's past. The Epilogue is a long narrative which tells us what happens after the story ends. I would have like to see this play this out in scenes

[Arlena · Rating 5 out of 5]

By: Gen LaGreca
Published By: Wing Victory Press
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Book Blog For: GMTA
Review:

"A Dream of Darling" by Gen LaGreca was some historical suspenseful murder mystery. This read was definitely one that keep me reading with all of its twist and turns and wow... that surprised ending. With all that was going on I found this read somewhat inspirational. In this read taken from 1859 you will get a little of all from 'Southern intrigue, political corruption, murder, slavery, horrible cruelty, forbidden love and then to the 'real romantic heroism' in Louisiana. The author does a good job with this historical part entering in about the 'south before the civil war.' These characters were all so real and well developed that really helped make this read quite interesting. "A Dream of Daring" may start out slow but with all of the adventure, suspense and mystery will keep you interested in seeing this 'American history' read unfold as it is so very important and relevant today. Would I recommend this read? Yes, especially if you are interested in a 'beautifully' well written historical romantic mystery murder.

[Dana Schroeder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Set in antebellum Louisiana, A Dream of Daring follows the adventures of Tom Edmunton--banker, inventor and slave owner. The beginning of the book finds Tom madly in love and on the verge of changing the south with his new vision of mechanized farming and the end of slavery. Educated in the north and full of ambition, Tom plans to return to his father's plantation and begin creating a life for himself and Senator Barnwell's daughter, Rachel. All this changes when a Senator Barnwell is found dead and the tractor is stolen, leaving Edmunton to question the social norms of the south, a man he greatly admired and the woman he envisioned spending the rest of this life with.

Overall this was an entertaining read. I found the plot to be interesting with a few little twists a long the way, but I felt that the historical analysis implicit in why the south wanted to keep the institution of slavery to be somehow forced throughout the novel. At other times, I felt like characters weren't allowed to unfold throughout the novel, but once again seemed forced. An interesting read, but not one I feel will be memorable.

[Karen Himestra · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise of this book is a good one: man invents an early tractor shortly before the Civil War and proposes to use it in the cotton fields. There's also a murder and a love story thrown in for good measure. The inventor's neighbors do not take kindly to his idea of replacing slaves with tractors. Although the inventor, Tom Edmunton, was born in Louisiana and lived there until he was fourteen, he apparently forgot about how the people of his native state felt about slavery and cotton. His inability to understand the depth of his neighbors' feelings did not ring true to this reader. Many of the dialogs in the latter two-thirds of the book felt like they had been plucked out of the twenty-first century and dropped into a novel set in the mid-1800's. I was not quite sure if it the author intended for her readers to figure out who the slave Solo was or if it was only Tom who did not realize it. Nonetheless, the solution to the mystery is pretty obvious to the reader. So, what could have been a really excellent book kind of petered out into an okay read. Recommended, but with reservations.

[Connie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was NOT a romance book. The only reason I stress this is because that it was how it was presented on Amazon. It is more of a whodunit with a mighty dose of social consciousness. When I first started reading it, I didn't like it because it wasn't what I was expecting. Then once I changed my mindset, I thought that it was okay, but that changed back to my original opinion after the dialogue became repetitive when speaking of the new age to come that the South wasn't ready for yet. There was waaayyy too much description of things that didn't enhance any of the characters in the book. Most of the Caucasian characters were painted in a less than flattering light while the slaves were either overly lazy with a bunch of excuses or thieves because that is what their station in life reduced them to do and behave. Even the epilogue was tainted with the lives the characters led by forcing ideas about the future of the world systems and how now our world is not controlled by actual slavemasters but by different systems that keep us from reaching Nirvana. We should all be masters of and unto ourselves. This book just had too much political undertone that I did not expect.

[Leonide Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting premise leads into a web of events setting up a murder mystery and an ideological discourse about values that shaped the old South. Would a son of antebellum Louisiana (my home state) defy his culture and risk being ostracized and prosecuted for creating a tractor to revolutionize cotton production, and educating his slaves in preparation for emancipation? It offers the possibility of radically different thinking and courage to act on one's convictions. The tractor theft and associated murder create a murky plot that unravels in a rather unfeasible way. Many characters are nicely drawn (my favorite was Tom's slave Jerome) and dialogue varied from stilted to snappy and engaging. The side stories were more interesting than the main one, such as Jerome's transformation into a chef and Solo's into an educator. Lengthy monologues served to express philosophies but slowed down the story, and many were repetitious. Overall an enjoyable read with some novel ideas, though the ending resorted to an Epilogue that explained the outcomes couched in more philosophy.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised to find that the author is a woman because the point of view is convincingly written from a man's perspective. "A Dream of Daring" is a new look at the pre-Civil war south. Tom Edmunton, having escaped his roots for higher education in the north, now finds himself back home in Louisiana after the death of his father. The cotton plantation and town bank are now under his sole supervision. But all Tom dreams of is returning to the north and his inventing. However, while at home, inspiration strikes and Tom has an idea to revolutionize the cotton planting industry, a motorized tractor. But on the eve of Tom's trip to unveil the tractor at a showing for investors, the tractor goes missing and a murder is discovered. All of Tom's plans scream to a halt as he searches for his missing invention and an absent murderer. The book is an enthralling murder mystery/romance that will keep the reader guessing while igniting their interest in the history of it all.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of books have been written to date. Many of them are interesting and unique (if they weren't, I doubt they would really get read), but this book is strange in that it was exactly what I expected.
I read quire a bit of historical fiction, but not that much from the Antebellum era of the South. However, from reading the back of the book, I sussed out what I expected the book to be--as I think we all do which is how we decide whether or not to read something--and it was exactly like that! Even the surprises were perfectly planned as to be very unsurprising.
All in all, not a bad read, especially for someone who just reads for pleasure and doesn't think too hard about every word and sentence. I do believe the author could have made this book much more fast-paced (it can be quite slow in parts) by cutting 10k or even 20k words, but still worth checking it out.

[Beth Agejew · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dream of Daring is an interesting and entertaining blend of history, romance, mystery and intrigue. In pre-Civil War America, Tom Edmunton has a vision of a new age - a time when machines will boost farming efficiency and people will be equal. But, many of those in his community don't share this vision. In fact, some folks might stoop to thievery or, even murder, to stop this new age from coming. To say that A Dream of Daring is a page-turner is an understatement. I became completely engrossed, not only in the story, but in the characters. I highly recommend Ms. LaGreca's work to anyone who loves historical fiction, romance and/or mystery novels. I can assure you, the time spent reading A Dream of Daring, is time well spent.

[Pamela Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Received an Early Reviewers Copy of this book. It is a good read with a unique plot. Historical fiction, romance, and a murder mystery set in Louisiana during the antebellum period. The main character, Tom Edmunton, is a man ahead of his time. He designs an early tractor, much to the dismay of the local planters. They do not wish to have their way of life disrupted and that sets up a tense stand between Edmunton and those he once considered to be friends and associates. There are twists in the plot which will hold the reader's interest throughout. Well written and well researched, "A Dream of Daring" deals with subjects and ideals which relate to today's world and social issues, as well as giving the reader insight regarding the past. An enjoyable and thought provoking book. Excellent!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) through the LibraryThing Members Giveaway Program.
WOW! What a fascinating read about 1850's Louisiana on a cotton plantation and the politics that go with it. Throw in some forbidden love, a cold-blooded murder, and a fight for power in the Old South, and you have the makings of another award winner for the author.
The writing style is polished, with many twists and turns, a few I saw coming, and many I did not.
I highly recommend this book to fans of historical fiction; you will be pleasantly surprised at how good this book really is.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.

Really interesting tale that had my attention the whole time. The pace was wonderful and the characters engaging. Beautiful storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat!

[Tommy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was well researched and thought provoking. The characters and their roles kept everything exciting and interesting. The twists and turns of the plot kept me guessing. It was hard to put down.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The story of life on the brink of the Civil War. Very well written and a few surprises along the way. Made me think about how far we've come but also about how far we still need to go.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book. So interesting. Combining the period before the civil war with the invention of the tractor made this very different and realistic. The mystery had so many twists and turns you just could not put it down. Really fun to read if you like historical fiction. Well done.

[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

Enjoyed the "who done it" aspect of the book, but that's about it. Didn't care for the romance story line and thought the author was trying too hard to force all of the philosophical views about slavery, "the soul of the South" and the new age on the readers.

[Courtney Hengel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book through a giveaway and I LOVED IT It opened by world to historical novels, I usually am not a big fan but I loved this book. I recommend it to anyone everyone looking for a good historical novel

[Julio Ayala]

Bestselling author Nora Roberts presents the first novel in an extraordinary new trilogy about the lives and loves of sisters of the heart. Margo, Laura and Kate were brought up like sisters amidst the grandeur of Templeton House