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Courage to Dream #2
Nobel hart
De historische familieroman ‘Nobel hart’ van Susan Anne Mason is deel 2 in een serie over de Ierse immigrantenfamilie O’Leary en het los te lezen vervolg op ‘Boerendochters’.
Maggie Montgomery’s wens om Amerika te zien, gaat eindelijk uitkomen. Ze gaat een bezoek brengen aan haar broer Rylan en zijn vrouw Colleen. Ze hoopt dat ze in Amerika kan blijven en daar haar geluk en liefde zal vinden. Eenmaal aangekomen ontmoet ze een intrigerende jongeman die die droom misschien wel kan waarmaken. Pas als haar broer haar gebiedt bij Adam O’Leary uit de buurt te blijven, beseft Maggie dat de man Colleens broer is die net uit de gevangenis komt.
Adam O’Leary heeft zich altijd het zwarte schaap van de familie gevoeld en zijn tijd in de gevangenis heeft dat idee alleen maar versterkt. Alles wat hij nu wil is het goed maken met zijn familie. Hij had nooit gedacht dat hij ondertussen liefde zou vinden.
Ondanks wanhopige pogingen om hen uit elkaar te houden, krijgen de twee een band die niemand nog kan breken. Maar is Adam wel echt veranderd?
Maggie Montgomery’s wens om Amerika te zien, gaat eindelijk uitkomen. Ze gaat een bezoek brengen aan haar broer Rylan en zijn vrouw Colleen. Ze hoopt dat ze in Amerika kan blijven en daar haar geluk en liefde zal vinden. Eenmaal aangekomen ontmoet ze een intrigerende jongeman die die droom misschien wel kan waarmaken. Pas als haar broer haar gebiedt bij Adam O’Leary uit de buurt te blijven, beseft Maggie dat de man Colleens broer is die net uit de gevangenis komt.
Adam O’Leary heeft zich altijd het zwarte schaap van de familie gevoeld en zijn tijd in de gevangenis heeft dat idee alleen maar versterkt. Alles wat hij nu wil is het goed maken met zijn familie. Hij had nooit gedacht dat hij ondertussen liefde zou vinden.
Ondanks wanhopige pogingen om hen uit elkaar te houden, krijgen de twee een band die niemand nog kan breken. Maar is Adam wel echt veranderd?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 29, 2015
104 people are currently reading
1636 people want to read
About the author
Susan Anne Mason
22 books525 followersSusan writes both contemporary and historical Inspirational romances. She describes her writing style as “Romance sprinkled with faith” and loves themes of forgiveness and redemption!
She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a former member of the Romance Writers of America. M
Susan lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two adult children. She loves chocolate and wine and isn't partial to snow even though she's Canadian!
She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and a former member of the Romance Writers of America. M
Susan lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two adult children. She loves chocolate and wine and isn't partial to snow even though she's Canadian!
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January 11, 2016
MY BLOG: Melissa Martin's Reading List
This was a nice feel good book, although, there were some people I wanted to throttle and you all know how I can find someone to smack some sense into in a book!
Anyhoo, we have Maggie Montgomery that comes over from Ireland with her brother Gabe for the summer to stay with their other brother Rylan and his wife. This is around 1914 and there is trouble brewing in Ireland so their mom wanted them to come over to New York for awhile. She couldn't make the trip at the time due to medical reasons.
Gabe is a fireman over in Ireland and he gets on with a short term job with a fire department in New York. Rylan and his wife Colleen run an orphanage so Maggie is going to help them. But, little do the rest of the family know, Maggie has decided she is not going back to Ireland, she wants to stay and make a life in New York. She has this creepy ex-fiance back in Ireland that wouldn't take no for an answer, the creep even followed her to New York.. so that is an ongoing thing they have to deal with in the book. It's like, can't the creepers just fade away!!!
Colleen's brother Adam gets out of jail around the same time and comes home trying to find work. He is estranged with his father, but I can't tell you why, you have to read the book. I love saying that :-) So instead of staying with his parents and working on the big horse farm or staying with his sister and working at the orphanage because Rylan doesn't want him there, Adam goes and stays with a priest that visited him in jail.
Because of some things that happen, Rylan decides to let Adam work at the orphanage as a handy man, but this gets him closer to Maggie. Her brothers don't like this as Adam has a record. But they are bound to be together in the end so just deal with it people.
Gabe also finds himself a love interest with another family that is going to lead to the next book in the series, at least I'm assuming it is. Gabe is really sweet, well they all are in their own way, but you don't mess with their family as they are all protective.
Adam has the hardest time in the book, I mean some others have to go through some life stuff, but Adam.. poor thing really finds out some stuff that is so sad and he's so down and hard on himself. But Maggie helps to pull him through this and he's very protective of her. He's such a good guy, I want him, or Gabe, they are both sweet and threatening to these bad dudes that won't leave their women alone :-) What is it with these men!!!
There is a really sweet part that happens between Adam and his three year old niece when he was sitting on the step down and out...
--->EXCERPT<---
"Do you know what prison is?
She nodded solemnly. "It's where bad men go."
Bad men. Somehow that label hurt more than being called a criminal. "Not everyone who goes to jail is bad. Some just made a mistake."
"Did you make a mistake, Uncle Adam?"
He held her gaze. "I did. And I went to jail as punishment."
A movement preceded the sudden weight in his lap. Delia's arms wound around his neck, and she pressed a kiss to his bearded cheek.
"You're not a bad man. If you were, I'd be afraid of you."
So sweet :-(
I have to say the two fathers that are in the book are just horrible! I'm glad in the end one of them saw the light and stopped being so terrible. But when something tragic almost happens it makes people open their eyes. Makes you wonder why we don't all open our eyes before then.....
I enjoyed reading this book, I love to read a feel good book from time to time and that cover on the book is just beautiful! I had to say it, even the back cover is beautiful. Yeah, I have a thing with covers, don't judge me. LOL
I hope to get the first and third book in this series. Oh and this is a stand alone book, you know there is a beginning but it doesn't hinder the reading of this book in any way.
Even though the book is centered in New York, all of the talk of Ireland in the book makes me want to read a bunch of books set in Ireland. I love Ireland, even though I have never been :-)
*I would like to thank BethanyHouse books for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
This was a nice feel good book, although, there were some people I wanted to throttle and you all know how I can find someone to smack some sense into in a book!
Anyhoo, we have Maggie Montgomery that comes over from Ireland with her brother Gabe for the summer to stay with their other brother Rylan and his wife. This is around 1914 and there is trouble brewing in Ireland so their mom wanted them to come over to New York for awhile. She couldn't make the trip at the time due to medical reasons.
Gabe is a fireman over in Ireland and he gets on with a short term job with a fire department in New York. Rylan and his wife Colleen run an orphanage so Maggie is going to help them. But, little do the rest of the family know, Maggie has decided she is not going back to Ireland, she wants to stay and make a life in New York. She has this creepy ex-fiance back in Ireland that wouldn't take no for an answer, the creep even followed her to New York.. so that is an ongoing thing they have to deal with in the book. It's like, can't the creepers just fade away!!!
Colleen's brother Adam gets out of jail around the same time and comes home trying to find work. He is estranged with his father, but I can't tell you why, you have to read the book. I love saying that :-) So instead of staying with his parents and working on the big horse farm or staying with his sister and working at the orphanage because Rylan doesn't want him there, Adam goes and stays with a priest that visited him in jail.
Because of some things that happen, Rylan decides to let Adam work at the orphanage as a handy man, but this gets him closer to Maggie. Her brothers don't like this as Adam has a record. But they are bound to be together in the end so just deal with it people.
Gabe also finds himself a love interest with another family that is going to lead to the next book in the series, at least I'm assuming it is. Gabe is really sweet, well they all are in their own way, but you don't mess with their family as they are all protective.
Adam has the hardest time in the book, I mean some others have to go through some life stuff, but Adam.. poor thing really finds out some stuff that is so sad and he's so down and hard on himself. But Maggie helps to pull him through this and he's very protective of her. He's such a good guy, I want him, or Gabe, they are both sweet and threatening to these bad dudes that won't leave their women alone :-) What is it with these men!!!
There is a really sweet part that happens between Adam and his three year old niece when he was sitting on the step down and out...
--->EXCERPT<---
"Do you know what prison is?
She nodded solemnly. "It's where bad men go."
Bad men. Somehow that label hurt more than being called a criminal. "Not everyone who goes to jail is bad. Some just made a mistake."
"Did you make a mistake, Uncle Adam?"
He held her gaze. "I did. And I went to jail as punishment."
A movement preceded the sudden weight in his lap. Delia's arms wound around his neck, and she pressed a kiss to his bearded cheek.
"You're not a bad man. If you were, I'd be afraid of you."
So sweet :-(
I have to say the two fathers that are in the book are just horrible! I'm glad in the end one of them saw the light and stopped being so terrible. But when something tragic almost happens it makes people open their eyes. Makes you wonder why we don't all open our eyes before then.....
I enjoyed reading this book, I love to read a feel good book from time to time and that cover on the book is just beautiful! I had to say it, even the back cover is beautiful. Yeah, I have a thing with covers, don't judge me. LOL
I hope to get the first and third book in this series. Oh and this is a stand alone book, you know there is a beginning but it doesn't hinder the reading of this book in any way.
Even though the book is centered in New York, all of the talk of Ireland in the book makes me want to read a bunch of books set in Ireland. I love Ireland, even though I have never been :-)
*I would like to thank BethanyHouse books for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
March 31, 2017
This was an almost 4, but more like 3 and 3/4 star read for me!
Characters were memorable. I am still thinking of them, lol! I seemed to enjoy Gabe and Aurora more though. Though, would have preferred if the two parallel love stories each had they're own books. Maggie and Adam, then another for Gabe and Aurora.
In some small ways, I didn't like the two main characters.
Adam seemed too bent on giving up and not wanting to go to church. That irked me, slightly. Interestingly enough, the author (who might I add is CANADIAN :D Yay!) also mentioned her dislike to Adam at first, in her author mentions at the back of the book. Despite that, I thought it fascinating how Susan gave him a story. She didn't give up on his character in the end. That was brilliant for me. I really loved the plot twist to his story too and found the longing to belong, have worth and be apart of family, relatable.
Maggie was a bit haughty and blind to some things, throwing away kisses to men, etc. She has a bit of a rebellious streak to her... Maybe reckless might be a better word. I Don't know. But It didn't sit well with me given her sweet spirit... But, both characters have such a great turn around in the end and was still worth reading.
Absolutely loved the plot and the tie in to Ireland! I will be picking up the other books in this series for sure :D
This book, you need to read the first one, first!
Recommended as an adult Christian Historical Fiction novel
15+
Characters were memorable. I am still thinking of them, lol! I seemed to enjoy Gabe and Aurora more though. Though, would have preferred if the two parallel love stories each had they're own books. Maggie and Adam, then another for Gabe and Aurora.
In some small ways, I didn't like the two main characters.
Adam seemed too bent on giving up and not wanting to go to church. That irked me, slightly. Interestingly enough, the author (who might I add is CANADIAN :D Yay!) also mentioned her dislike to Adam at first, in her author mentions at the back of the book. Despite that, I thought it fascinating how Susan gave him a story. She didn't give up on his character in the end. That was brilliant for me. I really loved the plot twist to his story too and found the longing to belong, have worth and be apart of family, relatable.
Maggie was a bit haughty and blind to some things, throwing away kisses to men, etc. She has a bit of a rebellious streak to her... Maybe reckless might be a better word. I Don't know. But It didn't sit well with me given her sweet spirit... But, both characters have such a great turn around in the end and was still worth reading.
Absolutely loved the plot and the tie in to Ireland! I will be picking up the other books in this series for sure :D
This book, you need to read the first one, first!
Recommended as an adult Christian Historical Fiction novel
15+
January 24, 2016
A Worthy Heart, Book 2 in the COURAGE TO DREAM series by Susan Anne Mason continues in much the same way as the book before it. Drama, rifts, and forbidden romance.
This story centers on Maggie, the sister of Rylan Montgomery (from the first book), who comes to America from Ireland with her other brother, Gabriel. Adam O'Leary, also from Irish Meadows, is a main character as well. Just having gotten out of prison, he's feeling pretty low and not sure if he can face his family and townspeople. Gabriel plans to stay in America for the summer, and then go back to Ireland, where unrest is high. But certain people and circumstances may change all plans.
As I mentioned above, it was similar to the first book. Different main characters, but two more forbidden romances. Having four main characters was a little difficult for me because ... I don't know ... they all seemed the same? Sometimes I got them mixed up! O_O
James O'Leary, the father of Adam, sort of slips back into his slightly villainous role from Book 1. That annoyed me. He could be so cruel sometimes! (That being said, I did get into Adam's past, redemption story, and all that. He was a character I liked!) Um, by the end of the book, a lot of things are resolved in the family, which was wonderful, and heartfelt. ^_^
Anyway, I believe I enjoyed A Worthy Heart more than the first book. I didn't skim. And though a lot of things were the same, this book did have a spiced up ending. Some action and suspense! That got my attention and had me breathlessly turning pages to see if everything would turn out alright!
Unfortunately, though I liked A Worthy Heart, I'm more convinced now that Susan Anne Mason's stories just aren't to my taste. I most likely won't be continuing this series. But fans of romance novels in a historical setting will probably enjoy it!
I received a copy of A Worthy Heart from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
This story centers on Maggie, the sister of Rylan Montgomery (from the first book), who comes to America from Ireland with her other brother, Gabriel. Adam O'Leary, also from Irish Meadows, is a main character as well. Just having gotten out of prison, he's feeling pretty low and not sure if he can face his family and townspeople. Gabriel plans to stay in America for the summer, and then go back to Ireland, where unrest is high. But certain people and circumstances may change all plans.
As I mentioned above, it was similar to the first book. Different main characters, but two more forbidden romances. Having four main characters was a little difficult for me because ... I don't know ... they all seemed the same? Sometimes I got them mixed up! O_O
James O'Leary, the father of Adam, sort of slips back into his slightly villainous role from Book 1. That annoyed me. He could be so cruel sometimes! (That being said, I did get into Adam's past, redemption story, and all that. He was a character I liked!) Um, by the end of the book, a lot of things are resolved in the family, which was wonderful, and heartfelt. ^_^
Anyway, I believe I enjoyed A Worthy Heart more than the first book. I didn't skim. And though a lot of things were the same, this book did have a spiced up ending. Some action and suspense! That got my attention and had me breathlessly turning pages to see if everything would turn out alright!
Unfortunately, though I liked A Worthy Heart, I'm more convinced now that Susan Anne Mason's stories just aren't to my taste. I most likely won't be continuing this series. But fans of romance novels in a historical setting will probably enjoy it!
I received a copy of A Worthy Heart from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.
January 17, 2016
Lovely sequel to Irish Meadows.
Like Irish Meadows, A Worthy Heart is the story of two different characters. The novel was Adam and Maggie & Gabe and Aurora's stories. There was also a chance to get caught up with the main characters in the first novel.
I look forward to reading more from Susan Anne Mason.
Like Irish Meadows, A Worthy Heart is the story of two different characters. The novel was Adam and Maggie & Gabe and Aurora's stories. There was also a chance to get caught up with the main characters in the first novel.
I look forward to reading more from Susan Anne Mason.
January 22, 2016
That moment when you reach the last page of a book and you spend another ten minutes staring at the blank end pages willing there to be more. Wistful sigh. It's really over...until September when the third book in the Courage to Dream series comes out. I'm officially in mourning.
Mason has created a sweeping family saga in this series. Happily though, each book is complete in and of itself so no worries if you haven't read Irish Meadows (but, oh mercy, you really should!) This author has the ability to hurdle a reader into emotional chaos right along with her characters. Seriously, I think I'm dehydrated from crying -- lots of happy tears but some anguished ones too.
As in the first book, this is another case of double romance doubles the reading pleasure. This time it is visiting Montgomery siblings, Maggie and Gabe, who find unexpected romance in America. Maggie with her steadfast heart is just what Adam O'Leary needs as he struggles to put his past behind him. And Gabe's Irish charm unexpectedly captivates Aurora Hastings (a secondary character from Irish Meadows who really did deserve her own happily ever after.) Both plot lines complement each other and make for a riveting (and often anxious) read. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
And a special kudos to the author for getting the Irish 'accent' right. So many don't -- turning it more Scottish than Irish or using exaggerated Americanized clichés.. Mason has captured the essence and flavour of the lilt by carefully placed (and authentic) word choice as well as a sprinkling of Irish phrases thrown in for good measure. (A couple of the most swoothworthy scenes include whispered endearments in Irish. Melting in a puddle. Right. Now.)
A wonderful inspirational thread explores the true meaning of grace as characters strive to prove themselves worthy, only to fall short time and time again. It isn't until they learn to accept that special grace that surpasses all understanding that they can begin to trust in their dreams for the future.
Captivating. Soul-stirring. Uplifting. If you love historical romance you will love A Worthy Heart.
A heartfelt thanks to the author for providing me with an autographed copy!
Mason has created a sweeping family saga in this series. Happily though, each book is complete in and of itself so no worries if you haven't read Irish Meadows (but, oh mercy, you really should!) This author has the ability to hurdle a reader into emotional chaos right along with her characters. Seriously, I think I'm dehydrated from crying -- lots of happy tears but some anguished ones too.
As in the first book, this is another case of double romance doubles the reading pleasure. This time it is visiting Montgomery siblings, Maggie and Gabe, who find unexpected romance in America. Maggie with her steadfast heart is just what Adam O'Leary needs as he struggles to put his past behind him. And Gabe's Irish charm unexpectedly captivates Aurora Hastings (a secondary character from Irish Meadows who really did deserve her own happily ever after.) Both plot lines complement each other and make for a riveting (and often anxious) read. I was on tenterhooks all the way through.
And a special kudos to the author for getting the Irish 'accent' right. So many don't -- turning it more Scottish than Irish or using exaggerated Americanized clichés.. Mason has captured the essence and flavour of the lilt by carefully placed (and authentic) word choice as well as a sprinkling of Irish phrases thrown in for good measure. (A couple of the most swoothworthy scenes include whispered endearments in Irish. Melting in a puddle. Right. Now.)
A wonderful inspirational thread explores the true meaning of grace as characters strive to prove themselves worthy, only to fall short time and time again. It isn't until they learn to accept that special grace that surpasses all understanding that they can begin to trust in their dreams for the future.
Captivating. Soul-stirring. Uplifting. If you love historical romance you will love A Worthy Heart.
A heartfelt thanks to the author for providing me with an autographed copy!
February 6, 2016
A Worthy Heart was such a compelling story! It is book two in the Courage to Dream series, but it can probably be enjoyed nicely without having read book one. I am very glad, however, that I have read the first book in the series, Irish Meadows, because all of the main characters from the first book are also in book two.
Just like in book one, there are actually two romances that the reader is following. I really enjoyed that! One is more of the main romance, while the other is more of a side story. But, both are important to the novel and are absolutely delightful. And, aside from the romances brewing, there were some other situations and problems that keep me turning pages and not wanting to put this book down.
I loved these characters! Maggie is strong and determined, with amazing discernment and insight. She is really kind and has a beautiful heart. Adam is a man that I was not sure that I could like. He was beyond difficult in book one and had such a resentful attitude. However, the author completely turned him around for me! So much is divulged about his background in the story. So many things explained. And, through God, he has truly changed from the man he used to be.
Gabe and Aurora’s story was great, too. Gabe was a really good guy who seemed to put his whole heart into everything he did. Aurora was a hard worker and I felt sorry for the way her father always tried to control her. The growth of Gabe and Aurora’s relationship added great feeling to the whole story. I enjoyed A Worthy Heart from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Just like in book one, there are actually two romances that the reader is following. I really enjoyed that! One is more of the main romance, while the other is more of a side story. But, both are important to the novel and are absolutely delightful. And, aside from the romances brewing, there were some other situations and problems that keep me turning pages and not wanting to put this book down.
I loved these characters! Maggie is strong and determined, with amazing discernment and insight. She is really kind and has a beautiful heart. Adam is a man that I was not sure that I could like. He was beyond difficult in book one and had such a resentful attitude. However, the author completely turned him around for me! So much is divulged about his background in the story. So many things explained. And, through God, he has truly changed from the man he used to be.
Gabe and Aurora’s story was great, too. Gabe was a really good guy who seemed to put his whole heart into everything he did. Aurora was a hard worker and I felt sorry for the way her father always tried to control her. The growth of Gabe and Aurora’s relationship added great feeling to the whole story. I enjoyed A Worthy Heart from start to finish.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
You can read this review on my blog at:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
March 12, 2023
In the second book of Courage to dream series we meet Adam O'Leary and Aurora Hastings again. The new characters are two of Rylan's siblings: Maggie and Gabe Montgomery.
I will try to keep my review simple, so let's go:
Adam O'Leary is definitely the highlight of this book. He was the main reason why I wanted to keep on reading this series - I was curious about his character. I do not feel disappointed. His story was the most touching one, I could not help, but cheer for him from the start to finish. He is a person who came from a good family, but at some point lost his way and paid consequences for his actions. Now he came back home determined to fix his broken relationships with his family and to fight for his future. I could feel how guilty he felt about what had happened in the past and his need to make things right also felt sincere. And the way he had met with a wall of distrust from other people - it's exactly what happens in real life. It's hard to stand up when you once fall, but Adam never stopped fighting and I admire it about him. I liked Adam's passion to work with wood and to make beautiful furnitures. I liked his storyline with his heritage and how his conflict with James had been resolved. I appreciate that Adam's story was not only build on the romance part. It felt like a breath of fresh air. Oh, and I really really loved his friendship with John McNabb. We all need someone like John in our lives!
I didn't like how all the couples fell for each other the moment they met. The He/she is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen exhausted me. And the way they all had been so attached to each other after knowing each other for basically a couple of minutes had been really worrying.
Also I didn't like how Maggie with the excuse of feeling worried for Adam was standing in his family's home and listening to the family's privates conversations. Girl, seriously, have some shame.
Both Maggie and Gabe had clear hobbies from the start. Maggie loved to teach and to play music and Gabe loved to work as a firefighter. It was nice, I liked that. But I did not like how the romance part completely covered it up. I mean, Maggie only played when the plot needed her to, not because she wanted to play. And we never see her teaching children. The only children she had any contact with had been Delia and Ivy. And Gabe had been so passionate when he had visited the fire station (it was so cute), but the moment Aurora Hastings had shown up his passion for saving people completely vanished. He was supposed to employed as a firefighter in that station but he went to work like once and never came back to it. How could I take it seriously? And don't even get me started on how unprofessional he was in the only scene with the fire. And he was supposed to be this experienced firefighter. I can't believe that he hasn't faced any consequences for his rushed actions.
I also didn't believe in Gabe's love for his country. It supposed to be one of his character's strong points and I liked it until I realized that the author didn't really want to do anything with it. His relationship with Aurora had been more important.
The Neill Fitzgerald plot point had been so stupid, I couldn't take it seriously, I'm sorry. Like, I get that the world is full of psychopaths obsessed with one person, it happens, but c'mon, how could he be this much hung up on Maggie. She clearly said 'no' and he acted like he never heard it and basically became a criminal just to keep this one woman by his side. The whole thing was ridiculous.
Colleen annoyed me to no end. The book tried to make me feel sorry for her that she didn't have her own children and wanted to be a mother, but I did not felt that. How the hell did she think of Ivy as her daughter the moment she had shown up in the orphanage is beyond me, especially if she knew that the girl had a mother and that she could easily be adopted by some couple. I felt sorry for the character of Jolene instead. I do not understand why no one, absolutely no one helped Jolene knowing that she wanted to keep her daughter, but couldn't do it because of her lifestyle.
Aurora Hastings had been okay. I liked how stubborn she was in pursuing the career as a nurse (and did not stop because of a guy). It was just a shame that her father didn't want to support her dream.
To be honest, I'm not excited at all to read book three, but I will do it just to know that I've read the whole trilogy. Knowing me, I would feel uneasy and guilty if I didn't do it. I do nothing about the new main character besides the fact that she's another O'Leary and that her name is Deirdre (she did not show up in this book at all) 🤷🏼♀️
Courage to dream trilogy - my rating:
Irish Meadows: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
A Worthy Heart: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
I will try to keep my review simple, so let's go:
Adam O'Leary is definitely the highlight of this book. He was the main reason why I wanted to keep on reading this series - I was curious about his character. I do not feel disappointed. His story was the most touching one, I could not help, but cheer for him from the start to finish. He is a person who came from a good family, but at some point lost his way and paid consequences for his actions. Now he came back home determined to fix his broken relationships with his family and to fight for his future. I could feel how guilty he felt about what had happened in the past and his need to make things right also felt sincere. And the way he had met with a wall of distrust from other people - it's exactly what happens in real life. It's hard to stand up when you once fall, but Adam never stopped fighting and I admire it about him. I liked Adam's passion to work with wood and to make beautiful furnitures. I liked his storyline with his heritage and how his conflict with James had been resolved. I appreciate that Adam's story was not only build on the romance part. It felt like a breath of fresh air. Oh, and I really really loved his friendship with John McNabb. We all need someone like John in our lives!
I didn't like how all the couples fell for each other the moment they met. The He/she is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen exhausted me. And the way they all had been so attached to each other after knowing each other for basically a couple of minutes had been really worrying.
Also I didn't like how Maggie with the excuse of feeling worried for Adam was standing in his family's home and listening to the family's privates conversations. Girl, seriously, have some shame.
Both Maggie and Gabe had clear hobbies from the start. Maggie loved to teach and to play music and Gabe loved to work as a firefighter. It was nice, I liked that. But I did not like how the romance part completely covered it up. I mean, Maggie only played when the plot needed her to, not because she wanted to play. And we never see her teaching children. The only children she had any contact with had been Delia and Ivy. And Gabe had been so passionate when he had visited the fire station (it was so cute), but the moment Aurora Hastings had shown up his passion for saving people completely vanished. He was supposed to employed as a firefighter in that station but he went to work like once and never came back to it. How could I take it seriously? And don't even get me started on how unprofessional he was in the only scene with the fire. And he was supposed to be this experienced firefighter. I can't believe that he hasn't faced any consequences for his rushed actions.
I also didn't believe in Gabe's love for his country. It supposed to be one of his character's strong points and I liked it until I realized that the author didn't really want to do anything with it. His relationship with Aurora had been more important.
The Neill Fitzgerald plot point had been so stupid, I couldn't take it seriously, I'm sorry. Like, I get that the world is full of psychopaths obsessed with one person, it happens, but c'mon, how could he be this much hung up on Maggie. She clearly said 'no' and he acted like he never heard it and basically became a criminal just to keep this one woman by his side. The whole thing was ridiculous.
Colleen annoyed me to no end. The book tried to make me feel sorry for her that she didn't have her own children and wanted to be a mother, but I did not felt that. How the hell did she think of Ivy as her daughter the moment she had shown up in the orphanage is beyond me, especially if she knew that the girl had a mother and that she could easily be adopted by some couple. I felt sorry for the character of Jolene instead. I do not understand why no one, absolutely no one helped Jolene knowing that she wanted to keep her daughter, but couldn't do it because of her lifestyle.
Aurora Hastings had been okay. I liked how stubborn she was in pursuing the career as a nurse (and did not stop because of a guy). It was just a shame that her father didn't want to support her dream.
To be honest, I'm not excited at all to read book three, but I will do it just to know that I've read the whole trilogy. Knowing me, I would feel uneasy and guilty if I didn't do it. I do nothing about the new main character besides the fact that she's another O'Leary and that her name is Deirdre (she did not show up in this book at all) 🤷🏼♀️
Courage to dream trilogy - my rating:
Irish Meadows: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
A Worthy Heart: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
December 23, 2015
Disclaimer: I received a free advance ebook in exchange for a review. All opinions are, as always, my own.
I rate A Worthy Heart four out of five stars. I enjoyed the book; I really did. But I struggled coming into it as Book 2 without having read Book 1, Irish Meadows; I will, of course, go read that next, and I’m sure it will fill in some of the inevitable blanks/gaps I experienced. So the one-star knock-off is not because I overlooked its Book-2 status; rest assured.
My biggest struggle with A Worthy Heart was how every single main character seemed to have a broken engagement in their past. I felt that the circumstance became trivial, its significance lessened, as it was so often repeated.
The plot pacing for A Worthy Heart was a little slow for me at first, but I soon got pulled in, and by a third of the way in, I couldn’t put the book down. Characterization was well-done and thought-provoking; being single and in my early 30s (I definitely just caught myself adding three extra years to my age on accident when I first wrote that!), it made me think about what I might unnecessarily let stand in the way of a relationship. (Not that anything’s in the works; it’s not, and that’s fine! However – it’s something to keep in mind if/when something does come down the pike.) Keeping close to God is of the utmost importance, and I trust that He will lead with perfect timing, just like Maggie/Adam and Aurora/Gabe in A Worthy Heart.
Aside from my two issues (broken engagements and slow pacing at the beginning), the book is great fun. I read it on the bus ride home for several days, and couldn’t wait to find out what happened. My heart ached with the trials each character experienced (have no fear, no spoilers here!), and rejoiced with their triumphs.
I definitely want to read more of Mason’s work. Upon a cursory review of Amazon search results, Book 3 – entitled Hannah’s Choice – is releasing in May. Hooray! I’d been hopeful for another book in the series; more stories could certainly be told about current characters, and I’m looking forward to meeting new ones.
I rate A Worthy Heart four out of five stars. I enjoyed the book; I really did. But I struggled coming into it as Book 2 without having read Book 1, Irish Meadows; I will, of course, go read that next, and I’m sure it will fill in some of the inevitable blanks/gaps I experienced. So the one-star knock-off is not because I overlooked its Book-2 status; rest assured.
My biggest struggle with A Worthy Heart was how every single main character seemed to have a broken engagement in their past. I felt that the circumstance became trivial, its significance lessened, as it was so often repeated.
The plot pacing for A Worthy Heart was a little slow for me at first, but I soon got pulled in, and by a third of the way in, I couldn’t put the book down. Characterization was well-done and thought-provoking; being single and in my early 30s (I definitely just caught myself adding three extra years to my age on accident when I first wrote that!), it made me think about what I might unnecessarily let stand in the way of a relationship. (Not that anything’s in the works; it’s not, and that’s fine! However – it’s something to keep in mind if/when something does come down the pike.) Keeping close to God is of the utmost importance, and I trust that He will lead with perfect timing, just like Maggie/Adam and Aurora/Gabe in A Worthy Heart.
Aside from my two issues (broken engagements and slow pacing at the beginning), the book is great fun. I read it on the bus ride home for several days, and couldn’t wait to find out what happened. My heart ached with the trials each character experienced (have no fear, no spoilers here!), and rejoiced with their triumphs.
I definitely want to read more of Mason’s work. Upon a cursory review of Amazon search results, Book 3 – entitled Hannah’s Choice – is releasing in May. Hooray! I’d been hopeful for another book in the series; more stories could certainly be told about current characters, and I’m looking forward to meeting new ones.
January 11, 2016
4.5 stars
I loved this one even more than the first! Real heroes, a real bad guy, a typhoid epidemic, and some family secrets make up an engrossing tale. The characters I loved from the first book were back for more, and Maggie is a delightful heroine. Adam's struggle to make a new life after a prison sentence was very well told, as he does his best to regain the trust of the family he betrayed and to make a new life as a man of honor. And the side stories for Gabe and Aurora were great, too. I'm definitely looking forward to book three!
I loved this one even more than the first! Real heroes, a real bad guy, a typhoid epidemic, and some family secrets make up an engrossing tale. The characters I loved from the first book were back for more, and Maggie is a delightful heroine. Adam's struggle to make a new life after a prison sentence was very well told, as he does his best to regain the trust of the family he betrayed and to make a new life as a man of honor. And the side stories for Gabe and Aurora were great, too. I'm definitely looking forward to book three!
April 27, 2017
Link to the review.
~Kellyn Roth
~Kellyn Roth
December 27, 2015
I looked forward to this book and it lived up to my expectations.
After three years in prison, Adam O'Leary returns home in the spirit of the Prodigal Son, but anyone who's read Irish Meadows can predict that James O'Leary won't be anything like the father in the parable. Quite the opposite, in fact. Poor Adam has learned firsthand that when you let resentment control your actions, it ends up rebounding back on you, rather than the people you aim it at.
I love series in which former bad boys and rebels become heroes of their own stories. In the first book, we get to see what everyone else sees, which is just enough of Adam to get the impression that he's a pain in the neck with a major chip on his shoulder, whose uptight presence casts a pall whenever he appears. But in this book, his heart and feelings get a chance to shine.
People's attitudes toward ex-jailbirds appear to have mellowed over the years, which I'm glad to see. Gross over-reactions seem to have been the norm in 1914. Just being seen with Adam would have been enough to tarnish Maggie's reputation forever. Come on, turn of the century people, get a grip! James' deplorable attitude is predictable at least, but at times, I even felt like shaking the charming Montgomery brothers for the judgmental stances they chose to take. Of course they were products of their time who were concerned for their sister.
I was all set for Adam to perform some heroics from the start. His reception was so frosty, I knew the bar would be set high for him to win back people's esteem. It was greatly satisfying to see him do it, yet on the other hand, how sad that he had to. It was a shame certain other characters couldn't have embraced him without him needing him to step up in crisis situations, but that's what makes an excellent story.
The best part is that, with Maggie, he doesn't have to prove himself worthy. I love her as well as Adam. She's been told about his sordid past and the scandals surrounding him, but chooses to trust her own intuition and personal experiences with Adam, and not care about all that hearsay. (Not to mention the chemistry between them is very well-written). She's also bold, sweet and kind. And she has her own problems, which add a lot of tension and a feeling of impending trouble.
I loved the instant attraction appeal for a change. My shelf is full of books with antagonists who hate each other on sight, but eventually fall in love. Much as I enjoy them, it's refreshing to come across a story where the attraction is immediate. Maggie and Adam have no problems figuring out how they feel about each other. It's other people's problems with their relationship which causes hassles for them.
Overall, it's another fantastic read with the help of some shocking back-story plus a very nasty villain.
I was cheering so hard for Adam and Maggie by the end, and the secondary romantic plot, with Gabe and Aurora, was pretty good too. (Remember Aurora from Irish Meadows, as the girl Gilbert almost got hitched to?) I believe this will be a trilogy, and I can't wait for the third.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for my review copy.
After three years in prison, Adam O'Leary returns home in the spirit of the Prodigal Son, but anyone who's read Irish Meadows can predict that James O'Leary won't be anything like the father in the parable. Quite the opposite, in fact. Poor Adam has learned firsthand that when you let resentment control your actions, it ends up rebounding back on you, rather than the people you aim it at.
I love series in which former bad boys and rebels become heroes of their own stories. In the first book, we get to see what everyone else sees, which is just enough of Adam to get the impression that he's a pain in the neck with a major chip on his shoulder, whose uptight presence casts a pall whenever he appears. But in this book, his heart and feelings get a chance to shine.
People's attitudes toward ex-jailbirds appear to have mellowed over the years, which I'm glad to see. Gross over-reactions seem to have been the norm in 1914. Just being seen with Adam would have been enough to tarnish Maggie's reputation forever. Come on, turn of the century people, get a grip! James' deplorable attitude is predictable at least, but at times, I even felt like shaking the charming Montgomery brothers for the judgmental stances they chose to take. Of course they were products of their time who were concerned for their sister.
I was all set for Adam to perform some heroics from the start. His reception was so frosty, I knew the bar would be set high for him to win back people's esteem. It was greatly satisfying to see him do it, yet on the other hand, how sad that he had to. It was a shame certain other characters couldn't have embraced him without him needing him to step up in crisis situations, but that's what makes an excellent story.
The best part is that, with Maggie, he doesn't have to prove himself worthy. I love her as well as Adam. She's been told about his sordid past and the scandals surrounding him, but chooses to trust her own intuition and personal experiences with Adam, and not care about all that hearsay. (Not to mention the chemistry between them is very well-written). She's also bold, sweet and kind. And she has her own problems, which add a lot of tension and a feeling of impending trouble.
I loved the instant attraction appeal for a change. My shelf is full of books with antagonists who hate each other on sight, but eventually fall in love. Much as I enjoy them, it's refreshing to come across a story where the attraction is immediate. Maggie and Adam have no problems figuring out how they feel about each other. It's other people's problems with their relationship which causes hassles for them.
Overall, it's another fantastic read with the help of some shocking back-story plus a very nasty villain.
I was cheering so hard for Adam and Maggie by the end, and the secondary romantic plot, with Gabe and Aurora, was pretty good too. (Remember Aurora from Irish Meadows, as the girl Gilbert almost got hitched to?) I believe this will be a trilogy, and I can't wait for the third.
Thanks to Bethany House and NetGalley for my review copy.
January 29, 2016
A Worthy Heart was a book that I never wanted to end, and wish there was another book in this series, such a joy to page turn!
This is the second book in this series, and yes I loved the first, and they can both stand alone, but they are so good you will be quickly attached to O’Leary family.
Two more members of the Montgomery family arrive from Ireland and quickly become involved in this growing family. We are updated on what has happened since we left Irish Meadows, and now Colleen and Rylan have adopted delightful Delia.
We are reunited with the outcast of the family Adam O’Leary, as he is released from jail. Now I did not like Adam in the previous book, but he appears to be a changed man? We are about to discover what he is really about.
This story has a bit of everything, a few romances, and we wonder who will end up with whom. There is a stalker, and we meet the famous Mary Brown, a real person, and the sad wake she leaves behind.
I really enjoyed this book, the characters are so rich and real, and I felt I was walking the streets of New York City, and entering St Patrick’s, I could almost hear the organ playing. Don’t miss this one!
I received this book through Bethany House Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
This is the second book in this series, and yes I loved the first, and they can both stand alone, but they are so good you will be quickly attached to O’Leary family.
Two more members of the Montgomery family arrive from Ireland and quickly become involved in this growing family. We are updated on what has happened since we left Irish Meadows, and now Colleen and Rylan have adopted delightful Delia.
We are reunited with the outcast of the family Adam O’Leary, as he is released from jail. Now I did not like Adam in the previous book, but he appears to be a changed man? We are about to discover what he is really about.
This story has a bit of everything, a few romances, and we wonder who will end up with whom. There is a stalker, and we meet the famous Mary Brown, a real person, and the sad wake she leaves behind.
I really enjoyed this book, the characters are so rich and real, and I felt I was walking the streets of New York City, and entering St Patrick’s, I could almost hear the organ playing. Don’t miss this one!
I received this book through Bethany House Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.
January 17, 2016
Besides having the most beautiful covers I've ever seen, Mason's characters live and breathe, just as I'd expect them to do. And that's a good thing. Adam's Prodigal Son is very believable -- reformed and contrite, but with a flash of what I assume is the old Adam every now and again. Maggie Montgomery is a headstrong Irish young lady, but she has a secret that explains her coming to America. The supporting characters are well-drawn, too -- each with their own stories that add to this beautiful saga which I can't help reading with an Irish accent in parts.
And speaking of beautiful, Mason's description of historic New York City is amazing. Although I've never been to Central Park, I can just imagine how it seemed to an Irish immigrant yearning for the green island of his homeland. I can hear the children running and laughing in the orphanage, Maggie playing the organ in St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the sea birds following the ship as they arrive at Ellis Island. If you love history, and specifically historical romance, I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy A Worthy Heart.
Many thanks to Bethany House for the copy of A Worthy Heart in exchange for my fair and honest review.
And speaking of beautiful, Mason's description of historic New York City is amazing. Although I've never been to Central Park, I can just imagine how it seemed to an Irish immigrant yearning for the green island of his homeland. I can hear the children running and laughing in the orphanage, Maggie playing the organ in St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the sea birds following the ship as they arrive at Ellis Island. If you love history, and specifically historical romance, I'm pretty sure you'll enjoy A Worthy Heart.
Many thanks to Bethany House for the copy of A Worthy Heart in exchange for my fair and honest review.
January 28, 2016
Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed the author's writing style and her ability to draw the reader into the setting of the story, while her knowledge of the era and customs adds to the enjoyment. Each sound, smell and street are vivid and the characters well-developed. (Even the Irish accents were authentically written.)
As with Irish Meadows, the plot quickly splits into two main threads that follow two separate couples and their lives (though both stories intertwine regularly), which I really like! I find that it keeps the book from lagging at any point and helps keep the reader riveted and waiting to see what happens next, while the two stories play hot potato, switching back and forth on a regular basis. (I also appreciate that this never got confusing.) I personally enjoyed this sequel to the first novel.
A Worthy Heart is a tale of love, dedication, and restitution.
As with Irish Meadows, the plot quickly splits into two main threads that follow two separate couples and their lives (though both stories intertwine regularly), which I really like! I find that it keeps the book from lagging at any point and helps keep the reader riveted and waiting to see what happens next, while the two stories play hot potato, switching back and forth on a regular basis. (I also appreciate that this never got confusing.) I personally enjoyed this sequel to the first novel.
A Worthy Heart is a tale of love, dedication, and restitution.
January 26, 2016
This read had such powerful characters, a strong redemption message, and an enjoyable plot line. Following two love couples is rare, and there are so many characters in this book that I thought I'd get confused. Amazingly, the read flows so well that I was able to easily follow the story.
This book was hard to put down. I admired Adam's zealous working to restore himself to his family. He was my favorite character because he didn't blame his condition in life on anyone but himself.
I highly recommend this read for historical romance readers. I was brought to tears in a few scenes, and that is incredibly rare for me. This has many touching moments in it, many different kinds of characters, and a wonderful historical setting. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next read by Susan Anne Mason.
This book was hard to put down. I admired Adam's zealous working to restore himself to his family. He was my favorite character because he didn't blame his condition in life on anyone but himself.
I highly recommend this read for historical romance readers. I was brought to tears in a few scenes, and that is incredibly rare for me. This has many touching moments in it, many different kinds of characters, and a wonderful historical setting. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next read by Susan Anne Mason.
February 5, 2016
A Worthy Heart is book two in the Courage to Dream series by Susan Anne Mason. This is only the second book that I have read by Susan and I couldn’t get enough. I am looking forward to reading many more of her books in the future. I was so captivated in this riveting story. A story line so beautifully written and characters that are so mesmerizing. There is always something happen in the story. This book will surely leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. I couldn’t put this book down it was so gripping. I felt as though I have lived out the story in New York right along with these characters. There is so much faith, love, anger, hate, frustration, stubbornness and determination in this captivating story. I highly recommend A Worthy Heart! Be sure to order your copy today. 5 stars! I would give it more stars if I could.
I received a copy of the book for my honest review.
I received a copy of the book for my honest review.
February 9, 2016
Oops! Forgot to write a review for this one. Well, the problem I had with the first book is the exact same problem I had with this one. A severe lack in Irish culture and practice.
September 16, 2023
Vermakelijk, leest fijn weg. Mooie lessen in vertrouwen op God.
February 15, 2016
A Worthy Heart is Susan Anne Mason’s follow-up to Irish Meadows. In this continuation of the Courage to Dream series, after the passage of three years, we look in on the O’Leary family again. We become better acquainted with their extended family, the Montgomerys — namely Maggie and Gabe, Rylan’s brother and sister. And we catch up with Adam O’Leary, the “black sheep” of the O’Leary bunch, whose animosity with Gil was made plain in book one. However, somewhere in that first book, he seemingly vanished. Turns out, he got wrapped up with the wrong crowd and was imprisoned for gambling. Now the Prodigal returns…
In large part, A Worthy Heart is Adam’s redemption story. Mason does a great job of making a formerly roguish character sympathetic. Though he’s returned humbled and repentant, his past is something not easily overcome. At times, it’s heartbreaking to watch Adam’s efforts to rebuild his life from the ground up. Luckily, though he faces many skeptics and doubters, he finds friends, too. As we look into his past, we learn more about the family history and the contributing factors to the rift between Adam and his father James.
Where Irish Meadows featured two main story lines, A Worthy Heart follows three. In addition to Adam, we also follow Maggie and Gabe in their voyage to America. Maggie has fled Ireland in part to escape the unwanted advances of Neill Fitzgerald whom she rejected. She is immediately taken with America and is quick to devise plans for jobs that can help her turn this visit into a permanent stay. But she soon finds a huge and potentially dangerous obstacle in her path.
Similarly, Gabe, a fireman back in Ireland, finds employment at a station in New York. When he meets someone special (I won’t say who, but readers of book one will know her), he is torn between a desire to remain in America, and what he sees as his duty to join the struggle for Irish independence.
Though her book may appear crammed with characters, Mason not only manages to make all the pieces mesh, she finds room to insert more historical detail than she included in Irish Meadows. The result is a compelling further exploration of family dynamics (both past and present), atonement, forgiveness, redemption, trust, and love.
Verdict: 4 of 5 Hearts. A Heartwarming Tale of Second Chances.
No matter how broken things are, no matter how far you may have fallen, you are never beyond God’s loving reach. Susan Anne Mason’s A Worthy Heart is a story of love and redemption that ultimately proves it’s never too late to begin again.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me a free copy of this title. 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 large part, A Worthy Heart is Adam’s redemption story. Mason does a great job of making a formerly roguish character sympathetic. Though he’s returned humbled and repentant, his past is something not easily overcome. At times, it’s heartbreaking to watch Adam’s efforts to rebuild his life from the ground up. Luckily, though he faces many skeptics and doubters, he finds friends, too. As we look into his past, we learn more about the family history and the contributing factors to the rift between Adam and his father James.
Where Irish Meadows featured two main story lines, A Worthy Heart follows three. In addition to Adam, we also follow Maggie and Gabe in their voyage to America. Maggie has fled Ireland in part to escape the unwanted advances of Neill Fitzgerald whom she rejected. She is immediately taken with America and is quick to devise plans for jobs that can help her turn this visit into a permanent stay. But she soon finds a huge and potentially dangerous obstacle in her path.
Similarly, Gabe, a fireman back in Ireland, finds employment at a station in New York. When he meets someone special (I won’t say who, but readers of book one will know her), he is torn between a desire to remain in America, and what he sees as his duty to join the struggle for Irish independence.
Though her book may appear crammed with characters, Mason not only manages to make all the pieces mesh, she finds room to insert more historical detail than she included in Irish Meadows. The result is a compelling further exploration of family dynamics (both past and present), atonement, forgiveness, redemption, trust, and love.
Verdict: 4 of 5 Hearts. A Heartwarming Tale of Second Chances.
No matter how broken things are, no matter how far you may have fallen, you are never beyond God’s loving reach. Susan Anne Mason’s A Worthy Heart is a story of love and redemption that ultimately proves it’s never too late to begin again.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I would like to thank Bethany House for providing me a free copy of this title. 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.”
January 5, 2016
New York - 1914
Maggie Montgomery and her brother, Gabe, have arrived via steamship from Ireland to visit their brother in America. Rylan is married to Colleen and runs an orphanage. They have an adopted daughter, Delia, age 8. Maggie is very happy to be in America especially due to her failed betrothal. It turns out that the man was not the one she wanted to marry. They are all happy to be together again and plan to stay for the entire summer.
Adam O’Leary is leaving the penitentiary after serving three years. The son of the wealthy and well-known O’Leary family and their home, Irish Meadows, Adam is not sure of the welcome he will receive. His mother is happy to see him but his father has not forgiven him for his past mistakes and refuses to allow him to live at home. His father had always preferred Gilbert Whelan to him. Gilbert is an orphan that his parents brought into the family many years ago. Adam feels that Gilbert has usurped his place in the family. Adam is intent on finding out why his father has never loved him. It has caused much pain for Adam and is the reason he dislikes Gilbert.
Adam was befriended by a minister while in prison and the man remains his friend. He is the one person who believes in Adam and offers to help him make a new start in life.
We follow the members of the Montgomery family and the O’Leary family as they intertwine into a great saga. We see the attitude of people toward Adam and the many hardships that he suffers. However, his determination is to be admired. I enjoyed his character and how the author built him up from a downtrodden and beaten man to one who earns his way and his self-respect that evolves into respect from others.
We encounter fear and sadness as typhoid fever hits and seriously sickens many people. The work of caring for the patients and the worry of whether they will survive is a burden they all bear.
This book is quite long with lots of intertwined stories. I found it to be quite good but wished there hadn’t been such constant angst in the story. It became a bit wearing at times.
This book is the follow-on to “Irish Meadows.”
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Maggie Montgomery and her brother, Gabe, have arrived via steamship from Ireland to visit their brother in America. Rylan is married to Colleen and runs an orphanage. They have an adopted daughter, Delia, age 8. Maggie is very happy to be in America especially due to her failed betrothal. It turns out that the man was not the one she wanted to marry. They are all happy to be together again and plan to stay for the entire summer.
Adam O’Leary is leaving the penitentiary after serving three years. The son of the wealthy and well-known O’Leary family and their home, Irish Meadows, Adam is not sure of the welcome he will receive. His mother is happy to see him but his father has not forgiven him for his past mistakes and refuses to allow him to live at home. His father had always preferred Gilbert Whelan to him. Gilbert is an orphan that his parents brought into the family many years ago. Adam feels that Gilbert has usurped his place in the family. Adam is intent on finding out why his father has never loved him. It has caused much pain for Adam and is the reason he dislikes Gilbert.
Adam was befriended by a minister while in prison and the man remains his friend. He is the one person who believes in Adam and offers to help him make a new start in life.
We follow the members of the Montgomery family and the O’Leary family as they intertwine into a great saga. We see the attitude of people toward Adam and the many hardships that he suffers. However, his determination is to be admired. I enjoyed his character and how the author built him up from a downtrodden and beaten man to one who earns his way and his self-respect that evolves into respect from others.
We encounter fear and sadness as typhoid fever hits and seriously sickens many people. The work of caring for the patients and the worry of whether they will survive is a burden they all bear.
This book is quite long with lots of intertwined stories. I found it to be quite good but wished there hadn’t been such constant angst in the story. It became a bit wearing at times.
This book is the follow-on to “Irish Meadows.”
Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
January 15, 2016
Susan Anne Mason has penned a mesmerizing, impassioned Irish American saga of two families whose lives intertwine at the lovely and affluent estate—the O'Leary stables, Irish Meadows, in 1914 Long Island, New York.
Maggie Montgomery's dreams of coming to America and starting a new life are finally coming to fruition. She has escaped the unwanted advances of Neill Fitzgerald and has no plans of ever returning to the lush, verdant meadows of Ireland. Once in New York she is reunited with Rylan Montgomery, her beloved brother and his wife, the former Colleen O'Leary of Irish Meadows estate. While visiting Irish Meadows she meets Colleen's brother, Adam—handsome and intriguing, but totally off limits.
Adam O'Leary has recently been released from prison and though ostracized from his family, Maggie is inexorably drawn to him. Adam's main desire of heart is to earn back his family's trust, and the lovely Irish Maggie who was not a part of his plans quickly becomes a priority as well. However, their tight-knit bond begins to unravel as Adam stumbles upon a terrible family secret that threatens to completely destroy his already low self-esteem—and neither he nor Maggie realize their undeniable attraction to one another may cause unfathomable danger to themselves...and those they love.
Author Susan Anne Mason has quickly become one of my favorite new authors—beginning with her amazing debut novel Irish Meadows and totally enrapturing me with A Worthy Heart! With a smidgen of suspense, two toe curling, angst-filled romances in the O'Leary/Montgomery family for the price of one (sighhh...)—and memorable characters who will wrap themselves around your heart and not let go—this is a definite must read! Although not a requirement as this book does well as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading Irish Meadows first to become better acquainted with each fascinating character. A Worthy Heart is a fast-paced, exciting novel with never a dull moment, interspersed with a strong theme of forgiveness and redemption throughout. Be sure to order your copy today!
Maggie Montgomery's dreams of coming to America and starting a new life are finally coming to fruition. She has escaped the unwanted advances of Neill Fitzgerald and has no plans of ever returning to the lush, verdant meadows of Ireland. Once in New York she is reunited with Rylan Montgomery, her beloved brother and his wife, the former Colleen O'Leary of Irish Meadows estate. While visiting Irish Meadows she meets Colleen's brother, Adam—handsome and intriguing, but totally off limits.
Adam O'Leary has recently been released from prison and though ostracized from his family, Maggie is inexorably drawn to him. Adam's main desire of heart is to earn back his family's trust, and the lovely Irish Maggie who was not a part of his plans quickly becomes a priority as well. However, their tight-knit bond begins to unravel as Adam stumbles upon a terrible family secret that threatens to completely destroy his already low self-esteem—and neither he nor Maggie realize their undeniable attraction to one another may cause unfathomable danger to themselves...and those they love.
Author Susan Anne Mason has quickly become one of my favorite new authors—beginning with her amazing debut novel Irish Meadows and totally enrapturing me with A Worthy Heart! With a smidgen of suspense, two toe curling, angst-filled romances in the O'Leary/Montgomery family for the price of one (sighhh...)—and memorable characters who will wrap themselves around your heart and not let go—this is a definite must read! Although not a requirement as this book does well as a stand alone, I highly recommend reading Irish Meadows first to become better acquainted with each fascinating character. A Worthy Heart is a fast-paced, exciting novel with never a dull moment, interspersed with a strong theme of forgiveness and redemption throughout. Be sure to order your copy today!
January 5, 2016
What I Loved...
I have become so accustomed to a focal love story and sometimes hints of another (for the next book), that having a second love story take up so much of a book was a real treat. A double header, two for one, two scoops of goodness...I could get used to that.
Of all the characters in this book (and there are lots) I loved Gabe (the lesser main hero) the most. A confident and flirty firefighter, he was not afraid to go after what he wants.
A Worthy Heart is full of emotion. I laughed and cried. I hardly ever cry for a book, but A Worthy Heart took me there.
What I Liked...
A Worthy Heart is packed full of a lot of plot points. I was never bored because something was always happening to someone or everyone. Mason did a great job making all that was taking place in the story flow easily and believably.
Protagonist Maggie was a real treat to read. She made me laugh and I was rooting for her throughout the book. Not just for her love story, but for her in general.
Other...
The book cover is beautiful. The cover model depicts the Maggie of my imagination.
While this is a stand-alone book, I often felt like I was missing something since I didn't read book one of the series. Although I have read second books in a series without having read the first, I didn't get that "missing info" feeling as much as I did with this one. To be clear, Mason did a great job supplying the main info needed, but it's the small details that make us fall in love with stories and I feel like I am missing that. So my advice is to definitely read book one (Irish Meadows) before reading A Worthy Heart.
Christian Fiction Addict Blog
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for my review.
I have become so accustomed to a focal love story and sometimes hints of another (for the next book), that having a second love story take up so much of a book was a real treat. A double header, two for one, two scoops of goodness...I could get used to that.
Of all the characters in this book (and there are lots) I loved Gabe (the lesser main hero) the most. A confident and flirty firefighter, he was not afraid to go after what he wants.
A Worthy Heart is full of emotion. I laughed and cried. I hardly ever cry for a book, but A Worthy Heart took me there.
What I Liked...
A Worthy Heart is packed full of a lot of plot points. I was never bored because something was always happening to someone or everyone. Mason did a great job making all that was taking place in the story flow easily and believably.
Protagonist Maggie was a real treat to read. She made me laugh and I was rooting for her throughout the book. Not just for her love story, but for her in general.
Other...
The book cover is beautiful. The cover model depicts the Maggie of my imagination.
While this is a stand-alone book, I often felt like I was missing something since I didn't read book one of the series. Although I have read second books in a series without having read the first, I didn't get that "missing info" feeling as much as I did with this one. To be clear, Mason did a great job supplying the main info needed, but it's the small details that make us fall in love with stories and I feel like I am missing that. So my advice is to definitely read book one (Irish Meadows) before reading A Worthy Heart.
Christian Fiction Addict Blog
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley. The opinion of this book, is my own and I was not paid or compensated for my review.
January 25, 2016
I loved it. I knew that when I picked up this book it would be too good to put down! I'm so glad that our wonderful God gives us a chance to redeem ourselves whenever we do wrong.
Our God is an awesome God. He's never failed me yet!! And He never will!!!
Susan Ann Mason will be added to list of favorite authors
It seems that everryone has a blacksheep in the family. His name is Adam. Adam does try hard to redeem himself for the Lord through the help of a preacher named John.
He also meets Miss Maggie and it's instant attraction.
Have you ever met someone and knew that God has sent them in your path for a reason? I believe that is just what He did for our friends in this story.
I knew the minute I met my husband that he was the one for me.
Many couples take children in and adopt them. Some do better than others. I think it's amazing that some fathers will raise other children as their own even if they didn't father them in some ways this is good.
It took me a long time for me to realize that my parents loved me except maybe my father didn't. Mom was my best friend. Eve. though she sometimes had trouble telling me but it was her doing the little things that told me she loved me.
God is my true Father. I think it took Adam a little to realize this.
Adam is my hero. Why? It is through the help of his God friends and last of all family that help him strive this. And Especially his best friend.
Susan Ann Mason you did an awesome job on writing this novel. I finished this book in 2 days!!!
I have this novel 5 stars because I love the setting for this novel and the year it was placed in.. There is a ship involved but I won't give her name but I think y'all can guess.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance.
This copy was given to by the author in exchange for an honest review
Our God is an awesome God. He's never failed me yet!! And He never will!!!
Susan Ann Mason will be added to list of favorite authors
It seems that everryone has a blacksheep in the family. His name is Adam. Adam does try hard to redeem himself for the Lord through the help of a preacher named John.
He also meets Miss Maggie and it's instant attraction.
Have you ever met someone and knew that God has sent them in your path for a reason? I believe that is just what He did for our friends in this story.
I knew the minute I met my husband that he was the one for me.
Many couples take children in and adopt them. Some do better than others. I think it's amazing that some fathers will raise other children as their own even if they didn't father them in some ways this is good.
It took me a long time for me to realize that my parents loved me except maybe my father didn't. Mom was my best friend. Eve. though she sometimes had trouble telling me but it was her doing the little things that told me she loved me.
God is my true Father. I think it took Adam a little to realize this.
Adam is my hero. Why? It is through the help of his God friends and last of all family that help him strive this. And Especially his best friend.
Susan Ann Mason you did an awesome job on writing this novel. I finished this book in 2 days!!!
I have this novel 5 stars because I love the setting for this novel and the year it was placed in.. There is a ship involved but I won't give her name but I think y'all can guess.
I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance.
This copy was given to by the author in exchange for an honest review
February 10, 2016
A Worthy Heart is the second book in Susan Ann Mason's series, Courage to Dream. I greatly enjoyed book one, Irish Meadows. When A Worthy Heart arrived in the mail, I went in search of my copy of Irish Meadows. A re-read of the first book was needed.
I'm so glad I could jump into Mason's Courage to Dream world again. Irish Meadows was great and Mason does not disappoint in A Worthy Heart. It's worth a read, friends! Not only does the story delve into the life of mystery brother, Adam O'Leary, but two Montgomery siblings arrive from Ireland. Don't worry about missing out on the characters you read about in Irish Meadows, they are present and very much a part of this book. Every one grows through faith, conflicts, illness, and love. For under 400 pages, Mason writes a wonderfully complex storyline. I liked Maggie Montgomery's story, but Adam's life was beautifully heart-wrenching. He'd fallen to the bottom of his pit and was picking himself up. It's amazing how faith and friends can help raise someone up who is struggling. I especially loved Mason's honesty about Adam O'Leary in her Author's Note: she didn't like him in book one, but the more she got to know him, the more she loved him.
I hope more Courage to Dream books are coming! I feel connected to the O'Leary/Montgomery family and I want more. Thanks for an excellent series, Ms. Mason!
Time Period: Turn of the Century, 1914
Location: Long Island and New York City, New York, USA
Reviewed from a complimentary copy. Thank you, Susan Ann Mason and Bethany House!
I'm so glad I could jump into Mason's Courage to Dream world again. Irish Meadows was great and Mason does not disappoint in A Worthy Heart. It's worth a read, friends! Not only does the story delve into the life of mystery brother, Adam O'Leary, but two Montgomery siblings arrive from Ireland. Don't worry about missing out on the characters you read about in Irish Meadows, they are present and very much a part of this book. Every one grows through faith, conflicts, illness, and love. For under 400 pages, Mason writes a wonderfully complex storyline. I liked Maggie Montgomery's story, but Adam's life was beautifully heart-wrenching. He'd fallen to the bottom of his pit and was picking himself up. It's amazing how faith and friends can help raise someone up who is struggling. I especially loved Mason's honesty about Adam O'Leary in her Author's Note: she didn't like him in book one, but the more she got to know him, the more she loved him.
I hope more Courage to Dream books are coming! I feel connected to the O'Leary/Montgomery family and I want more. Thanks for an excellent series, Ms. Mason!
Time Period: Turn of the Century, 1914
Location: Long Island and New York City, New York, USA
Reviewed from a complimentary copy. Thank you, Susan Ann Mason and Bethany House!
January 7, 2016
Although not my favorite character in “Irish Meadows”, when getting to know Adam O’Leary’s background in “A Worthy Heart”, I learned to care and cheer for him. Having made wrong choices, Adam spent three years in prison, shaming his family. After his release, he hopes his father will hire him as a stable-hand so that he can slowly work his way up, hopefully restoring the shattered relationship with his family.
Maggie Montgomery is Rylan’s younger sister. She arrives in New York with her brother, Gabe, to visit Rylan and his wife, Colleen, and their daughter Delia. Maggie has decided she isn’t going to return to Ireland, but her former fiancé makes her new life in New York difficult. Meanwhile she meets and falls in love with Adam O’Leary, but her brothers warn her to stay away from him, because he is a criminal. However, Maggie believes Adam’s heart is right and worthy.
Gabe Montgomery meets Aurora Hastings and immediately falls for her. He doesn’t know she is the banker’s daughter and that her father wouldn’t deem him worthy to court his daughter. But Aurora – trying to stand up to her ruling father – has a will of her own. She wants to go to nursing school to become a nurse—a profession her father despises. Dare she also stand up to him and choose for Gabe—a lowly firefighter from Ireland?
I enjoyed Susan Anne Mason’s “Irish Meadows” but truly loved “A Worthy Heart”. The author knows how to make a story come alive and draw her readers in. I enjoyed every minute reading this delightfully written novel. Well done, Ms. Mason!
Maggie Montgomery is Rylan’s younger sister. She arrives in New York with her brother, Gabe, to visit Rylan and his wife, Colleen, and their daughter Delia. Maggie has decided she isn’t going to return to Ireland, but her former fiancé makes her new life in New York difficult. Meanwhile she meets and falls in love with Adam O’Leary, but her brothers warn her to stay away from him, because he is a criminal. However, Maggie believes Adam’s heart is right and worthy.
Gabe Montgomery meets Aurora Hastings and immediately falls for her. He doesn’t know she is the banker’s daughter and that her father wouldn’t deem him worthy to court his daughter. But Aurora – trying to stand up to her ruling father – has a will of her own. She wants to go to nursing school to become a nurse—a profession her father despises. Dare she also stand up to him and choose for Gabe—a lowly firefighter from Ireland?
I enjoyed Susan Anne Mason’s “Irish Meadows” but truly loved “A Worthy Heart”. The author knows how to make a story come alive and draw her readers in. I enjoyed every minute reading this delightfully written novel. Well done, Ms. Mason!
January 6, 2017
"God grant me the wisdom to accept the past and the courage to face the future with a clean heart."
Adam O'Leary is leaving his sordid past behind; walking out of prison and starting over, he is riddled with doubts about whether or not he can rebuild relationships with family members, in particular his father. On his way home, Adam pauses to perhaps catch a glimpse of his sister Colleen, outside the orphanage where her husband is the director, and instead spies a lovely young woman playing with some of the children; a woman that would catch the notice of any man, but should remain off limits to one who could ruin her reputation simply by association.
Maggie Montgomery and her brother Gabe have recently arrived from Ireland to spend the summer in New York, escaping Ireland's rumors of civil war and Maggie's disenfranchised former fiance. Staying with their brother Rylan and his wife Colleen, Maggie and Adam happen to meet at a family celebration, sparking an attraction that no one dares to encourage and that her brothers vehemently forbid.
When it becomes apparent that Maggie's compassionate heart and fierce determination refuses to let her give up on Adam, the two begin to wonder if their dreams might come true, albeit there are many obstacles to overcome, and Adam has garnered a dangerous enemy in the process.
Enjoy this trip back to "Irish Meadows" with re-introductions to previous characters and pleasant associations with new ones, celebrating the strength of God's forgiveness and the joy of unconditional love.
Adam O'Leary is leaving his sordid past behind; walking out of prison and starting over, he is riddled with doubts about whether or not he can rebuild relationships with family members, in particular his father. On his way home, Adam pauses to perhaps catch a glimpse of his sister Colleen, outside the orphanage where her husband is the director, and instead spies a lovely young woman playing with some of the children; a woman that would catch the notice of any man, but should remain off limits to one who could ruin her reputation simply by association.
Maggie Montgomery and her brother Gabe have recently arrived from Ireland to spend the summer in New York, escaping Ireland's rumors of civil war and Maggie's disenfranchised former fiance. Staying with their brother Rylan and his wife Colleen, Maggie and Adam happen to meet at a family celebration, sparking an attraction that no one dares to encourage and that her brothers vehemently forbid.
When it becomes apparent that Maggie's compassionate heart and fierce determination refuses to let her give up on Adam, the two begin to wonder if their dreams might come true, albeit there are many obstacles to overcome, and Adam has garnered a dangerous enemy in the process.
Enjoy this trip back to "Irish Meadows" with re-introductions to previous characters and pleasant associations with new ones, celebrating the strength of God's forgiveness and the joy of unconditional love.
January 19, 2016
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
A romance that you can’t miss.
In the previous book, Irish Meadows, I thought the story had a good ending for the protagonists, but when this book came out I wanted to know more of them; and I have not been disappointed.
While this story doesn’t follow the protagonists of the previous book, they are an important part of the plot and new characters in this novel are related to the previous one.
Something I liked about Irish Meadows and I also loved in this book, was the development of the characters. They evolve and become better people than they were at first, but the path they have to travel is hard and sometimes they want to give up. This book makes emphasis on forgiveness, love, patience and other important values that are develop in the family.
This romance is beautifully written and is suitable for reading at any time.
-I recieved a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion-
January 17, 2016
A Worthy Heart ( Courage to Dream - Book 2 )
By: Susan Anne Mason
A worthy Heart is book two of Courage to Dream Series. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but i suggest reading book one first . You will get a better feel for the characters. I love the story and the characters, both were easy to follow. Mason captured my heart right from the start and held onto it. When I started read A Worthy Heart I did not want to put it down till the end, but with it’s size I had to read it in more than one session. Mason gives us more than one love as The O’Leary family continues . Maggie and her brother comes to America to visit their brother . Maggie has dreams about living in America. She is also trying to escape a man and his unwanted attention. Adam is a man who has spent three years in prison and looking for a new start in life. Will his family welcome him back with open arms? There was times when I caught myself holding my breath tillI I could read the next few pages to see what was happening next. I also loved the spiritual threads of God’s Love throughout the story . I can’t wait to read book three of Courage to Dream series.
I was given a Complimentary copy of this book by the author and Bethany House for my honest review.
By: Susan Anne Mason
A worthy Heart is book two of Courage to Dream Series. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but i suggest reading book one first . You will get a better feel for the characters. I love the story and the characters, both were easy to follow. Mason captured my heart right from the start and held onto it. When I started read A Worthy Heart I did not want to put it down till the end, but with it’s size I had to read it in more than one session. Mason gives us more than one love as The O’Leary family continues . Maggie and her brother comes to America to visit their brother . Maggie has dreams about living in America. She is also trying to escape a man and his unwanted attention. Adam is a man who has spent three years in prison and looking for a new start in life. Will his family welcome him back with open arms? There was times when I caught myself holding my breath tillI I could read the next few pages to see what was happening next. I also loved the spiritual threads of God’s Love throughout the story . I can’t wait to read book three of Courage to Dream series.
I was given a Complimentary copy of this book by the author and Bethany House for my honest review.
February 26, 2016
In Book two of the Courage to Dream series, we are introduced to Rylan Montgomery’s brother Gabe, and his sister Maggie, as they arrive in New York City from Ireland near the turn of the century. Maggie’s secret desire is to stay permanently in America, while Gabe can’t wait to return to his homeland. During their visit they reacquaint themselves with their brother and forge ties with his in-laws, the O’Leary family. They also fall in love and each must stand against prejudice to pursue their loves.
Author Susan Anne Mason seamlessly ties this book to the first in the series, yet this novel stands on its own. One of the highlights of this book was to see how God had worked healing and strength of character in the lives of characters met in the first book, Irish Meadows.
The author’s writing was strong. As I read about Maggie walking down the street by herself, I felt creeped out and wanted her to check and see if she was being followed. Themes of restoration, forgiveness, service to others, and family ties drove this book, and it was an enjoyable read. I recommend this book for those who love romance and historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
Author Susan Anne Mason seamlessly ties this book to the first in the series, yet this novel stands on its own. One of the highlights of this book was to see how God had worked healing and strength of character in the lives of characters met in the first book, Irish Meadows.
The author’s writing was strong. As I read about Maggie walking down the street by herself, I felt creeped out and wanted her to check and see if she was being followed. Themes of restoration, forgiveness, service to others, and family ties drove this book, and it was an enjoyable read. I recommend this book for those who love romance and historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, Bethany House, in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
February 15, 2016
A Worthy Heart is a captivating story! Susan Anne Mason engaged my senses with her excellent characterization and vivid imagery. I enjoyed hearing the lilting Irish brogue as I read and reveled in the myriad of details and the richness they added to the novel.
I was delighted to revisit the O’Leary family, as well as meet the Montgomery siblings. Boasting two romantic story lines, the intertwined plots, along with a wonderful inspirational thread, propel this story forward and make for a most compelling read. I loved this beautifully written family drama and can’t wait to continue the Courage to Dream series!
A Worthy Heart is the second book in this series, and I recommend reading Book 1, Irish Meadows, prior to reading this novel. I believe reading the books in order will offer a better understanding of the characters and a greater enjoyment of their stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
I was delighted to revisit the O’Leary family, as well as meet the Montgomery siblings. Boasting two romantic story lines, the intertwined plots, along with a wonderful inspirational thread, propel this story forward and make for a most compelling read. I loved this beautifully written family drama and can’t wait to continue the Courage to Dream series!
A Worthy Heart is the second book in this series, and I recommend reading Book 1, Irish Meadows, prior to reading this novel. I believe reading the books in order will offer a better understanding of the characters and a greater enjoyment of their stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
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