Judith Gladstone came to San Francisco after her parents died to find her last living relative, an aunt she has never met. Instead she has fallen head over heels in love with Caleb Coulter, her friend's brother. Caleb has promised to help Judith find her aunt, but she can tell he thinks of her only as a friend, and she struggles to hide her feelings.
When Caleb traces Judith's aunt to the wealthy Whitley family, Judith is reunited with her long-lost relatives. The truths she learns about her past and her parents are shocking and overwhelming, however, and the more she gets to know her new family, the more danger she uncovers. Someone does not want Judith in the picture, and they will do whatever it takes to get rid of her.
Tracie Peterson is a bestselling author who writes in both historical and contemporary genres. Her novels reveal her love for research as well as her strong desire to develop emotionally meaningful characters and stories for her readers. Tracie and her family live in Montana.
This is the second book in a series. I requested this story from Netgalley and sat down to start reading it, I then realized it was book #2 and went looking for book #1. The whole series is on Kindle Unlimited, so I borrowed the first book before starting this one. You could probably read them out of order, but I wouldn't recommend it.
The series focuses on three friends who traveled to San Francisco together. They immediately bond and help each other through all kinds of trials and heartache. This book is Judith's story. She came looking for the family that she didn't know she had until her mother's passing. This book has so many ups and downs (kind of like the streets in San Francisco). Judith faces some emotional and physical trials when she finds her family. It was far different than she expected it to be. Her friends were there to rally around her, giving her support and advice when needed. Not only does Judith find her family, but she finds someone to love. It was very heartwarming.
I found the ending to be particularly interesting. It is set during the huge earthquake in the early 1900s. I could almost imagine myself in the turmoil and see the destruction of the city.
I am now hooked in this series and must read Kenzie's story in In Times Gone By. I am so happy that it is also on Kindle Unlimited!
Source: I requested a copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This one was another absorbing installment in the Golden Gate series about 1906 San Francisco. Judith, one of the three friends the series features, is hoping to get answers about a mysterious note left to her by her mother about a sister she had never before mentioned. While searching for her aunt, Judith is living with her friends. When she finds her extended family, it comes with shocking revelations about her past and raises more questions than answers.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters better, although I really wanted more of both of them, especially Caleb. This book should have been at least 400 pages. :)
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
I adored this book. The longing for family was strong and a great thing to feature in this story. It was neat to see the journey of coming to terms with life when it changes dramatically on you. This was written realistically and was easy to relate to.
One of my favorite things about this book was that Judith was not shy about declining the offers of alcohol that came her way. It was wonderful to see this realistic point of view expressed with kindness and grace.
Another favorite aspect was crazy weather. I love a good earthquake story, especially one that opens my eyes wider to the reality of this type of natural disaster. It was heartbreaking even as it was mesmerizing. The loss of life in the real San Francisco earthquake in the early 1900s was devastating, and it broke my heart reading about it in this fictional story. I felt like I learned a lot about this event, and I think that reflects well on the author’s attention to historical details. I must admit that reading such a well written account of this weather event made this weather nerd smile even as tears tracked down my face.
In Dreams Forgotten by Tracie Peterson is predictable historical romance with a couple of twists and turns thrown in for good measure. I haven't read a lot of Peterson, but I do enjoy a good historical romance in the early twentieth century, so I have picked up and enjoyed this series. My favorite part of the novel is the setting. It is nice to return to familiar characters from In Places Hidden and roam around San Francisco around the turn of the century. Peterson doesn't just allow her past characters to make one appearance to catch us up on their lives, she actually allows them to roam the pages of the story, being an important part of the novel. I loved how Peterson draws my attention to the setting with the beautiful Whitley house and grounds. It was nice getting to know more on the background of Judith and watch her interact with her new family and see her emotions blossom for Caleb. Even Caleb starts to feel emotions for Judith. He worries about her while she is hanging out with her new family. He makes up ideas to visit her and see how she is doing. Judith can't stop thinking of Caleb and how she wants to marry for love, not an arranged marriage like her cousin, Victoria. The plot moved pretty quickly. There is a twist with Judith's new family, and I pretty much picked out the person as soon as he entered on the page. He just didn't seem right to me. Peterson proved me right. As for the plot, it held my attention and had enough drama to keep me turning the pages. Overall, In Dreams Forgotten by Tracie Peterson, the setting is my favorite part of the novel. I really enjoy stories which feature reoccurring characters, and the twists of the plot kept me flipping through the novel in a rapid fashion.
Another wonderful tale by Tracie Peterson! Wonderful characters and I enjoyed the backdrop of the story as well. Be careful of what you wish for. You hit might find something that you aren't expecting and a whole lot more. There's also a whole lot of action too! I can't with for y'all to read this story!! I also can't wait to read Kenzie's story!!
This book truly took on a snowball effect. The characters were cool, calm and collected through the beginning of the story. Everyone was happy and loving life after the conclusion of book #1. Except Judith. She quietly let it be known to the reader that she was still in waiting. Waiting to find her family. She did her best to wait on God's timing as well as Caleb's, the lawyer who was to help her connect with Mrs. Witley. Once a connection was made, the happiness of the characters began to unravel, and things started picking up. The family was none too happy (except Mrs. Witley) to see the newest family member. Ultimately things continued to build and eventually explode. The author not only used circumstances erected by the characters but also natural disasters to bring out the glory of God. It never gets old to see things work out for Good. The ultimate power of God. As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. Genesis 50:20 NASB
In Dreams Forgotten is the second installment from Tracie Peterson’s series, Golden Gate Secrets. I thought this book was a great read. I enjoyed the sweet, clean romance with the little mystery and suspense. I, also, enjoyed learning history about San Francisco, California.
I give In Dreams Forgotten four and a half stars. I look forward to continuing the Golden Gate Secrets series.
I highly recommend for readers who love to read a hard to put down historical.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
In this novel Judith Gladstone travels to San Francisco to try to find her aunt after she finds a letter upon the death of her parents. She never knew she had any relatives . When arriving she stays with the brother of a friend She met until she can find a relative. Once Judith finds her relative she has Decisions to make as well as trying to stay alive when she concludes that Someone is trying to kill her. A fast, easy read with likable characters and a predictable plot.
Wow! Sometimes things need to be torn down in order for God to rebuild them. Also, sometimes we’re better off not knowing the answers to some of our questions. This was a very good book! She is so good at keeping you in suspense through the whole thing.
This has been a very interesting series so far. I'm very impressed at the history that Ms. Peterson brings into her stories. I like how she weaves them in little details, and I'm not just talking about their clothes or food or even the location but the events of the day woven into the daily lives of the fictional characters. I liked that these characters are believable, living in the time frame the author set. I couldn't really give this a five star because of the romance between Judith and Caleb. I just felt like they were unaware of each other's feelings until the very end and then all of a sudden they have this tremendous feelings for each other (more on Caleb's side) I just couldn't buy it. Anyways, I thought that this series has a good mixture of things going on with it. You have the spiritual part, the mystery and suspense plus the relationship (friendship and romantic relationships) aspect makes this interesting from the start to finish. I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
Judith & Caleb...decent story a little predictable but I like the continuation to see what else happens. Judith was a little naive but able to stand up for herself. Their love came a little too quickly though...
In Dreams Forgotten: Golden Gate Secrets Book 2 is by Tracie Peterson. Through the eyes of the characters and the very descriptive words of Tracie Peterson, we are transported back to San Francisco in 1906. The book is well-written and keeps your attention as you want to find out what happens to the three young ladies who were introduced in book 1. Camri Coulter has found her brother, Caleb. He was indeed shanghaied but managed to get away from his ship in Hawaii. He has just returned unharmed. Camri has become engaged to Patrick Murphy after getting acquainted with him during her search for Caleb. Knezie Gifford has been united with her cousin, George Lake. She has a job, as do the other girls, in his chocolate factory. However, she hasn’t found the peace of mind she needs after being left at the altar. She is determined not to have anything to do with men from now on. Judith Gladstone is more than ready to look for her aunt Edith and hopes she will find her in San Francisco. When Judith asks Caleb if he has found any trace of her aunt yet, he is reminded that he hasn’t even started; but he makes a point of telling her he will immediately look into it. Judge Winters is to meet with him that day and he intends to ask him for advice. It turns out that Judge Winters knows an Ann Whitley and agrees to write her a letter introducing her to Caleb so she will meet with him. Caleb finds out quickly that Ann Whitley is one of the wealthiest women in San Francisco. When he meets with her, she agrees to meet his client; but offers nothing else. When Caleb and Judith meet with Ann, Ann immediately knows who Judith is. Judith is the twin sister of Ann’s daughter-in-law and son Nelson. Nelson and his family were drowned in an accident in Italy; but Judith looks just like her sister, Cora. Judith must face the fact that her “mother” was really her aunt and she and her husband had kidnapped Judith when she was a baby. They had moved to Colorado on a ranch away from any town. Judith had been homeschooled and rarely left the ranch. Only on her Mother’s death did she even dream of something being wrong. Now she must get to know her new family, Grandmother, Uncle, and two cousins; adjust to the fact that she is now very wealthy; and decide on her relationship with Caleb and the others. Should she ditch them or not?
OK, It took me a little longer to read this one than book one in the series. Part of the reason is that I started reading on Friday when I knew I had a busy weekend. The other reason is that this storyline just didn't appeal as much to me. I love that Judith found her family and I did not expect that she had been stolen as a baby and was a twin raised by a twin and the whole thing was just really fantasy. That turned me off. I did however love her grandmother Ann Whitby. She was about my favorite character in this segment of the series. I grieved with Judith when she died. I knew right off the bat that Bill was the one trying to kill her. I don't know how I new but I was not surprised when the earthquake came and he lift Judith to die. Judith's family wasn't as developed as I would have liked to see, Vicky, William, Bill...just pretty much fillers in the story. I love the fact that Patrick hasn't tamed Camri and Camri hsan't bullied Patrick. I believe that they were meant to be. I was just sorry that the end of the book didn't find them married but rather planning a double wedding with Caleb and Judith. Perhaps it is a glimpse that the finale of book three will be a triple wedding which will leave me very disappointed. These are three completely different women with completely different type men who deserve weddings that reflect who they are. I have to admit that I was disappointed that Judith ended up crazy wealthy. It is not that I have anything against money and after all Caleb did realize that he was in love with her when she was poor and ignorant, but somehow the way in which she became wealthy and that ending in which Caleb is finally understand his life's mission and talking of investing his money and providing for her leading her to say that her money could be used any way that he needs well, it didn't seem authentic. it is not the Judith that was introduced in book one and we have come to know and love. I was very disappoint that I didn't get to see much of Kenzie in this story. She was great where she was but I just expected to see more of her and the budding of she and Micah. I am waiting to see how this all comes together and have preordered book three. I guess for now I just sit and wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A Book Review of "In Dreams Forgotten" by Tracie Peterson Golden Gate Secrets-Book 2
After reading this book and the first book in this Golden Gate Secrets series "In Places Hidden", I feel I personally know the characters in these books and I can't wait to read book 3 in this series!
This was a book of not only sweet romance, but its historical focus was on San Francisco in the 1900's. It always amazes me how differently social life was in those days, yet, people were not so much different than now in many ways. The story continues where book 1 ended with pretty much the same characters, however this book focuses on Judith primarily, who came to San Francisco hoping to find an Aunt and family she never knew she had until it was revealed in a letter she found after her mother passed away. Raised alone, as an only child, on a ranch in the middle of nowhere with only her mother and father as company, being told her whole life that she had no relatives, Judith is both anxious and fearful to begin the search and is in hopes to connect with a family she always dreamed of having. Camri, Kelsey, Caleb and Patrick are also very much intwined in the story. If you have not yet to read book 1 I would highly recommend reading it before reading this book as it really sets the stage for a lot that happens in this story.
Not only is there romance in this story there is also mystery, crime, corruption, intrique, greed, natural disasters, and various twists, turns and surprising events. Through it all one can see God's providence and protection in how He guides and protects the characters who are devoted to him.
This was a page turner for sure from the beginning and I was in suspense until the very end. I throughly enjoyed reading this book and anticipate that book 3, which I think will be mainly about Kelsey, will be just as interesting as these this book and book 1 have been.
I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House via Net Galley but I was not required to write a postive review. All thoughts are my own.
"In Dreams Forgotten" is the second book in Tracie's Golden Gate Secrets. Fans of Christian historical romance will not be disappointed with this authors book. Tracie has a gift for incredible storytelling. This is a stand alone book, as are all of Tracie's books. But I was glad that I had read In Places Hidden first. It introduced me to these characters and gave me some background information, I found helpful.
The story-line is mainly about Judith Gladstone and Caleb Coulter. We have all of the previous characters, plus a few new ones, who you will either love or love to hate.
What an ability Tracie is gifted with, to make a setting come to life.
Judith finds herself part of one of the wealthiest families in San Francisco. Here is the description of the mansion seen by Caleb for the first time.
"Caleb parked his car and took a moment to marvel at the gleaming limestone masonry. The Beaux-Arts home sported eight white marble columns with Corinthian capitals on the main part of the two-story, hip-roofed house. The grand entryway was arched with an intricately detailed canopy molding. The two sets of floor-to-ceiling windows that graced either side of the entry were also trimmed in elaborately carved shields and swags. To each side of those, the east and west wings of the house jutted out." It is almost as if you are standing next to Caleb observing the mansion too.
The Golden Gate Secrets series takes place in early 1900. The great earth quack and fires of San Francisco are written into her story. She makes you experience what many must have gone through during this catastrophe.
One of my favorite lines to the story ..."Things happen to change how we feel about people. Love is not a guaranteed emotion. The love shared between a man and woman requires constant work--nurturing. If not, it dies."
What a true statement. I totally enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone loving Christian Historical Fiction.
I was eager to read Judith and Caleb's love story ever since Judith first laid eyes on him in book one and instantly fell in love. Whether or not you are a believer in love at first sight, these two are still a page-turning romantic read. Caleb being adorably clueless about how in love with Judith he is, Judith thinking he could never love her back, then Caleb in turn unsure how she feels about him . . . for me, it's just too cute for words and completely relatable. I mean, these are emotions I think we all struggle with as a relationship is starting. Then Judith finds out the truth about her family and intrigue ensues. I didn't trust any of the Whitleys from the get-go, but then Judith finds a rattlesnake in her bed, and things went from "controlling family" to "who the hell are these people?" in a moment. I seriously wish I had not read the snake in the bed scene before I went to bed myself - while my husband was out of town. To say I had trouble sleeping that night is an understatement. And I know what you're thinking. It makes this book sound ridiculous and over the top, but I promise you, as crazy as it sounds, it actually fit the story. The setting is also incredibly well done, immersing you in San Francisco of 1906. I had never heard of the Sutro Baths before, and after reading about them, I looked it up. Crazy! Then, of course, the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906 hits, and then I literally could not put the book down.
I'm looking forward to book #3, especially because poor Micah keeps handing Kenzie his heart on a silver platter, and she keeps spitting on it, throwing it to the ground and stomping on it. Not to mention Micah is incredibly noble and heroic in this book. How are you not in love with this man yet, Kenzie? Why are you doing him so dirty? I hope book three helps me understand Kenzie better because at the moment she's getting on my last nerve. But Micah, you are precious, so I will read book three for your sake.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Peterson's second installment in the "Golden Gate Secrets" novel is one filled with excitement and intrigue and, of course, culminates with a thoroughly happy ending (just what I was in the mood for!) When I was initially introduced to the quiet but likeable Judith Gladstone in the first book in the series, I wasn't quite sure what to expect from her knowing that she would now be starring in her own novel. But she certainly rises to the occasion with plenty of pluck and grit as the novel unfolds. And I can attest that the events of her past that are revealed in this story were nothing that I expected at all, with the result being that I devoured this novel in short order to see how things would turn out!
I most appreciated the steady faith that Judith and Caleb both cling to and emulate over the course of the novel, providing a powerful contrast of the difference such faith makes as opposed to the all-consuming greed and conniving ways of Judith's family. Judith's tale serves as a reminder to us all that longing after money never leads to a good end, and really results in misery for all involved. It's funny that despite the fact we may know that, we still often find ourselves pining for the false security that wealth offers!
All in all, I quite enjoyed journeying along with Judith and Caleb, finding them to be likeable characters who are easy to relate to, with their own unique dance towards love. And Peterson has done a great job at setting the scene for the final tale of the novel, when the broken hearted Kenzie Gifford has her turn headlining a novel. As for "Golden Gate Secrets", I give this book a high recommendation and rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, certain that Peterson's faithful readers will surely enjoy this book as much as I did.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Judith Gladstone knew she had fallen head over heels in love with her friend’s brother Caleb but he never seems to pay any attention to her. As Judith asks for his help in finding out what happen to her family, a long lost letter leads her to finding out that she is actually a Whitley, one of the most wealthiest families in San Francisco. Will Judith finally have the perfect family she always wanted or will it come at a price that will drive both Caleb and Judith apart?
I enjoyed reading Judith’s story better than Camri’s. I was able to connect with her more and I loved getting to see the tensions between the secondary characters. Caleb seems to not notice her at first, but I still feel that he himself had no idea that he was in loved until everyone told him and I wonder if the author needed to show more activity of him falling for her. I felt bad for Judith losing her new family again and having a hard time fitting in her new world.
There are still some unanswered questions left but the next book in the series will hopefully conclude the ending for Camri and Patrick, Judith and Caleb, and finally Kenzi and Micah. .
I would say that in order to understand the story you need to read book 1.
Second book in the Golden Gate series, set in the early 1900s San Francisco. A time of corruption and danger for those going against the men in control of crime in the city. Judith had come to town with Camri and Kenzie, nearly broke and having lost her family with the hope of finding an Aunt she had never known about. After a long search what she found was nothing she could have imagined, and puts her life in danger. Caleb has returned after being shanghaied and is rebuilding his life. The five journey together supporting each other as they get busy with their lives and early women's rights. Wonderful message of salvation. This is a fantastic series for close relationships between friends. Not all families are close, especially when money is involved.
Quote: It was a good reminder that earthly treasures weren’t meant for eternity.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
In Dreams Forgotten is the second book in Peterson's Golden Gate Secrets series. It is set in the early 1900s San Francisco. In the first book the mystery of Camri Coulter's missing brother is solved. This book focuses on the search for Judith Gladstone's aunt and any other living relatives that she and her friends could locate. Their search has unexpected results and consequences, ones that will take readers by surprise and keep them engaged with the story. Judith's search is not limited to her family, she is also searching for God, His will, and a closer relationship with Him. Camri's brother, Caleb, becomes her mentor on this quest, and they discover a relationship growing between them as well.
Tracie Peterson's books always provide an entertaining read. She develops characters that charm their way into her readers' hearts. Peterson includes Christian insights in a way that compliments the story without ever appearing forced. I thank NetGalley and Bethany House for providing me with a copy of In Dreams Forgotten in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review and received no monetary compensation.
'In Dreams Forgotten' is the story of Judith Gladstone, orphan, who has travelled to San Francisco in 1905 to find a long lost and previously unknown aunt, Edith Whitley.
The story involves some mystery, intrigue, love, and a great deal of San Francisco history beautifully-written by one of my favorite authors, Tracie Peterson.
Like the first book, the characters in this story are well-developed and multi-dimensional. I especially liked the personal growth Judith experienced throughout the story. She just blossomed before the reader's eyes! She grew as a person and as a woman of faith.
Highly-recommended!
Completely clean in language and content. :0}
I borrowed this book from the local public library.
Bethany House Publishers Christian Pub Date 03 Jul 2018
I am reviewing a copy of In Dreams Forgotten through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:
After loosing her parents Judith Gladstone cane to San Francisco to live with her only living relative, an Aunt she does not even know, never met before she finds herself having to move in with this relative whose really a stranger!
But Judith has fallen in love with her friends brother Caleb Coulter, who has agreed to help her trace down this Aunt she has never even met. Finally he traces her down to the wealthy Whitley Family and she is reunited with her long lost relatives. Finding out the truth about her family leads to danger, could someone in her own family want her out of the picture?
I Give In Dreams Forgotten five out of five stars!
In Dreams Forgotten is packed full of excitement! Judith's family secrets are shocking, the earthquakes, the snakes, the poisoning, the romance, and so much more kept the pages of this book flying by. I loved the way Judith would stand up for herself and what she wants. She really came into her own with this book. My only drawback is I would have really liked to know what special ideas Judith had for new chocolates at the candy factory. I think the actual candy making process would have been super interesting to dive into, but that doesn't really seem possible at this point considering where the plot left off. All three main characters are left in a very interesting situation after the event at the end of this book. I can't wait to see was builds from this unique scenario, especially when you include taking down the corruption of the town.
Another masterpiece in story by one prolific authors. One thing wonderful about her books is that each one is unique. This 2nd story in the series is completely different than book one in spite of some of the same characters. In this one Judith finds her real family with all of their secrets. She suddenly finds herself an extremely wealthy young lady. But her Grandmother clearly plans to run and rule her life. She quickly lets her Grandma know that it’s not going to happen! That secretly pleases her to no end. However she isn’t planning on sharing such information. Then Judith finds a rattlesnake in her bed. Prayerfully she kills it as she learned to do on the ranch growing up. Oh, but that’s only a tease! I loved the book with so much history too. It’s well worth your time!!!
Tracie Peterson has been penning a new series Golden Gate Secrets. In the first book IN PLACES HIDDEN, three young women--Camri, Kenzie and Judith-- on their way, all for different reasons, to San Francisco meet on the train and pledge to help one another. In this second book IN DREAMS FORGOTTEN, Camri’s brother Caleb seeks to help Judith find her aunt. What he finds is more than anything she could imagine. What she didn’t expect was to find that discovering her roots would lead her directly into danger. Will Caleb and her friends be able to protect her when she no longer lives with them? Will the desire of her heart for love and family become a reality or will that be denied when everything blows up? Another winner from Tracie.
It was better than the previous one, but still stilted and awkward. The writing style is not for me, but the book was short. It was rather predictable, but *shrugs* Judith was a much more likeable mc than Camrianne was.
Some things were tied up too neatly, but I'll forgive because the book was short. There are still a few things to be sorted, but I assume that most of the answers will be solved by the end of the last book in the series.
I think the writing is just how the author writes, because I got to the end of the book and it was like "she's the author of more than a hundred books". Not exactly promising for a future of me reading her things. Oh well. I'll finish the series and call it a day.
This is the 2nd book in the series. I think you really need to read them in order, to get the most enjoyment from them and understand the characters better. This is mostly Judith's story, although the others from the first book feature in this too. I found it a bit slow, for my preference, but enjoyed the 2nd half of the book more. There was quite a bit of drama in the 2nd half of this book, it did have me on the edge of my seat at 1 point. Judith's Grandmother certainly was a Character!!! Turns out Judith's family were very wealthy. I loved Caleb in this book too, as he's a lawyer, as well as being in love with Judith, he really helped her navigate this new territory. I'm reading this series via Kindle Unlimited. Looking forward to the next book.
In 1906 a young woman named Judith travels to San Francisco after her parents passed away.She is searching for an Aunt that she has never met.On the way there she meets two other young women and becomes friends with them.One of them (Camri) ask her to move in with her and her brother Caleb in his house.The 3 girls become close friends and Judith finds a job in a chocolate factory.Caleb is a lawyer and sets out to find Judith's aunt.If he finds her will this be more than what Judith is searching for?There is a lot of unexpected twist and turns in this story.This is another great book from Tracie Peterson.
Judith has come to San Francisco searching for an Aunt that she doesn’t know. Her friend Caleb, who she has loved since she first saw him, is helping her. When she finds her relatives, Judith’s world is turned upside down, and she finds she has to fight for what she wants. But what she wants most is Caleb, but is he interested in more than friendship?
I love Tracie Peterson! And this book is no exception. It is sweet, light, quick, and easy to read. Just the perfect escape during a boring plane ride.