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Amaryllis #1
Free to Dream
Secrets brought them face-to-face. But it’s her dreams that might ruin them… or set their hearts free.
A small-town protector romance with workplace tension and a love that proves dreams can come true.
Cassidy Freeman doesn’t sleep—she survives. Every night she’s dragged back into the childhood nightmare she barely escaped. By day, she hides behind rigid control and flawless confidence. No one sees the truth she protects. No one gets close enough to try.
Until Caleb Lockwood.
From the moment they meet, he disrupts everything.
His patience disarms her.
His compassion melts the walls she swore would never crack.
His touch makes her feel—for the first time in years—safe.
Helping his brother hire a wedding planner shouldn’t have changed his life. But Caleb uncovers long-buried secrets about his family…and hers. And the moment he meets Cassidy, the connection is immediate and impossible to ignore.
With Caleb, Cassidy’s control shatters.
And she’s no longer sure she wants it back.
Because losing control might be the only way she gets something she never believed she could have again:
Love.
A small-town protector romance with workplace tension and a love that proves dreams can come true.
Cassidy Freeman doesn’t sleep—she survives. Every night she’s dragged back into the childhood nightmare she barely escaped. By day, she hides behind rigid control and flawless confidence. No one sees the truth she protects. No one gets close enough to try.
Until Caleb Lockwood.
From the moment they meet, he disrupts everything.
His patience disarms her.
His compassion melts the walls she swore would never crack.
His touch makes her feel—for the first time in years—safe.
Helping his brother hire a wedding planner shouldn’t have changed his life. But Caleb uncovers long-buried secrets about his family…and hers. And the moment he meets Cassidy, the connection is immediate and impossible to ignore.
With Caleb, Cassidy’s control shatters.
And she’s no longer sure she wants it back.
Because losing control might be the only way she gets something she never believed she could have again:
Love.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2018
934 people are currently reading
1203 people want to read
About the author
Tracey Jerald
47 books1,311 followersWant to keep up with Tracey?
www.traceyjerald.com
For more outstanding romance reads, follow Foreword PR
Please direct all inquiries to my personal email - authortraceyjerald@gmail.com for a faster response
To sign up for her newsletter, go to: smarturl.it/TraceyJerald_News
Tracey Jerald knew she was meant to be a writer when she would re-write the ending of books in her head on her bike when she was a young girl growing up in southern Connecticut. It wasn’t long before she was typing alternate endings and extended epilogues “just for fun.” After college in Florida, where she obtained a degree in Criminal Justice swearing she saw things she’ll never quite believe and never entirely forget, Tracey traded the world of law and order for IT. Her work for a global internet startup transferred her to Northern Virginia where she met her husband in what many call their own happily ever after. They have one son. When she’s not busy with her family or writing, Tracey can be found in her home in north Florida drinking coffee, reading, training for a runDisney event, or feeding her addiction to HGTV. To follow Tracey, go to her website at http://www.traceyjerald.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for her newsletter for up to date release information!
www.traceyjerald.com
For more outstanding romance reads, follow Foreword PR
Please direct all inquiries to my personal email - authortraceyjerald@gmail.com for a faster response
To sign up for her newsletter, go to: smarturl.it/TraceyJerald_News
Tracey Jerald knew she was meant to be a writer when she would re-write the ending of books in her head on her bike when she was a young girl growing up in southern Connecticut. It wasn’t long before she was typing alternate endings and extended epilogues “just for fun.” After college in Florida, where she obtained a degree in Criminal Justice swearing she saw things she’ll never quite believe and never entirely forget, Tracey traded the world of law and order for IT. Her work for a global internet startup transferred her to Northern Virginia where she met her husband in what many call their own happily ever after. They have one son. When she’s not busy with her family or writing, Tracey can be found in her home in north Florida drinking coffee, reading, training for a runDisney event, or feeding her addiction to HGTV. To follow Tracey, go to her website at http://www.traceyjerald.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for her newsletter for up to date release information!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
March 10, 2021
There are a lot of abuse survivors in this book. I must warn you that there are some details about child abuse, as well.
I find stories of abuse survivors worth reading so I wanted to read this book.
Our heroine has made her own family and there are lots of side characters in the book. The guy who saved her from her abusers, and four more girls they have picked up some time in their lives have managed through the hardships of life and created their own family under the name of Freeman. A made-up surname for a made-up family. They feel closer than real family members. They live together and work together. However, it kinda felt weird that they built a “wedding event planning” business... Huh? Too romantic for abuse survivors, isn’t it? Whatever, despite finding it all weird, I tried to embrace their line of business.
The heroine is the only one of those abuse survivors who seems to still suffer from some nightmares. Maybe it is all because the book focuses on her. However, she is a confident and strong woman, not a weak one. She also has a good sense of humor. She is just sometimes sad because she suffers from nightmares and insomnia. It is not too bad but it is there.
And this gorgeous woman has unfortunately never dated in her life. So apart from all the childhood rape, the hero is practically her first date, first kiss and first everything. Thank God, he is a really good man and he treats her right.
The main characters are likable, both the hero and the heroine, but their “insta-love” is too deep too soon.
There is also a mystery behind their story and an interesting plot twist, albeit not dealt with in a successful way.
The book had a lot of potential and I should have loved it more with such likable MCs and a deep plot like this but I had huge problems with the writing of the book. It is dull, non-climactic and flat. It is choppy and feels like a patchwork and sometimes there is no good transition between the cut-and-paste job.
The mystery and the plot twist is also totally wasted. No angst, no tension whatsoever. Neither the build-up nor the revelation serves its purpose.
And, worst of all, it still leaves some questions unanswered for me. E.g. Did the hero know all about the things her aunt said ? If he did, how did the heroine not make it a big deal? I would have. And if it wasn't that, then, what was the thing he knew about the heroine but never confessed? I mean I am not sure what he was hiding because he was saying to himself all the time that he knew more about her but he was scared to tell her that he knew. Were they only the details of her abuse? The names of the abusers? What? I am sorry but there is not enough clarity there. And it is all about the writing style. So very confusing. While there are pages and pages of description of scenery, buildings, design, wedding preparations etc, there is not enough clarity about the mystery, secrets and the revelations about the past. Who knew what? Who hid what? They don't talk about the secrets revealed. I mean two huge secrets are revealed that connect three people to one another and there is no talk of it between the characters. No dialogues. It is just mentioned that they are dealing with it. Come on - it is the part the book must reach its highest and well, there is no high at all! I said the book felt flat, right? Such a shame! Such plot twists all wasted!
And what about the people who abused her? I really needed to know they were going to be punished somehow. And if possible, in the worst way. I am disappointed about that, too.
In short, I can say that this book fell short of my expectations all because of the way it is written. A plot like this could have made such a better book in the hands of a more skillful story-teller.
I originally had planned to read Book 2 as well but now that I have read Book 1 and experienced this writer’s writing style, I don’t think I can survive another book written in such a dull way. Sorry...
The book felt like something between 2- 2,5 stars for me and I am rounding it up to 3 stars just because I appreciate the effort of someone to write about abuse victims and take the attention of people to such matters. However, I do wish such books would be written in a less boring way in the future.
*********************************************
You can follow my instagram page from here
I find stories of abuse survivors worth reading so I wanted to read this book.
Our heroine has made her own family and there are lots of side characters in the book. The guy who saved her from her abusers, and four more girls they have picked up some time in their lives have managed through the hardships of life and created their own family under the name of Freeman. A made-up surname for a made-up family. They feel closer than real family members. They live together and work together. However, it kinda felt weird that they built a “wedding event planning” business... Huh? Too romantic for abuse survivors, isn’t it? Whatever, despite finding it all weird, I tried to embrace their line of business.
The heroine is the only one of those abuse survivors who seems to still suffer from some nightmares. Maybe it is all because the book focuses on her. However, she is a confident and strong woman, not a weak one. She also has a good sense of humor. She is just sometimes sad because she suffers from nightmares and insomnia. It is not too bad but it is there.
And this gorgeous woman has unfortunately never dated in her life. So apart from all the childhood rape, the hero is practically her first date, first kiss and first everything. Thank God, he is a really good man and he treats her right.
The main characters are likable, both the hero and the heroine, but their “insta-love” is too deep too soon.
There is also a mystery behind their story and an interesting plot twist, albeit not dealt with in a successful way.
The book had a lot of potential and I should have loved it more with such likable MCs and a deep plot like this but I had huge problems with the writing of the book. It is dull, non-climactic and flat. It is choppy and feels like a patchwork and sometimes there is no good transition between the cut-and-paste job.
The mystery and the plot twist is also totally wasted. No angst, no tension whatsoever. Neither the build-up nor the revelation serves its purpose.
And, worst of all, it still leaves some questions unanswered for me. E.g. Did the hero know all about the things her aunt said ? If he did, how did the heroine not make it a big deal? I would have. And if it wasn't that, then, what was the thing he knew about the heroine but never confessed? I mean I am not sure what he was hiding because he was saying to himself all the time that he knew more about her but he was scared to tell her that he knew. Were they only the details of her abuse? The names of the abusers? What? I am sorry but there is not enough clarity there. And it is all about the writing style. So very confusing. While there are pages and pages of description of scenery, buildings, design, wedding preparations etc, there is not enough clarity about the mystery, secrets and the revelations about the past. Who knew what? Who hid what? They don't talk about the secrets revealed. I mean two huge secrets are revealed that connect three people to one another and there is no talk of it between the characters. No dialogues. It is just mentioned that they are dealing with it. Come on - it is the part the book must reach its highest and well, there is no high at all! I said the book felt flat, right? Such a shame! Such plot twists all wasted!
And what about the people who abused her? I really needed to know they were going to be punished somehow. And if possible, in the worst way. I am disappointed about that, too.
In short, I can say that this book fell short of my expectations all because of the way it is written. A plot like this could have made such a better book in the hands of a more skillful story-teller.
I originally had planned to read Book 2 as well but now that I have read Book 1 and experienced this writer’s writing style, I don’t think I can survive another book written in such a dull way. Sorry...
The book felt like something between 2- 2,5 stars for me and I am rounding it up to 3 stars just because I appreciate the effort of someone to write about abuse victims and take the attention of people to such matters. However, I do wish such books would be written in a less boring way in the future.
*********************************************
You can follow my instagram page from here
August 30, 2018
2.5 - 3 stars
I liked the story concept and I found it easy if a bit ‘dropped straight into the fire’ to get into. The heroine was likeable and admirable but I didn’t always gel with the writing style. I found some of the description clunky and the family in general didn’t grab me. I didn’t enjoy the food scene (if you’ve read this, you’ll understand me).
There was a compelling story to be told here and there was a clever twist that I didn’t see coming. A solid debut but it didn’t wow me. I would give this author a try again.
I liked the story concept and I found it easy if a bit ‘dropped straight into the fire’ to get into. The heroine was likeable and admirable but I didn’t always gel with the writing style. I found some of the description clunky and the family in general didn’t grab me. I didn’t enjoy the food scene (if you’ve read this, you’ll understand me).
There was a compelling story to be told here and there was a clever twist that I didn’t see coming. A solid debut but it didn’t wow me. I would give this author a try again.
August 17, 2018
4,5 ❤️💔❤️💔🌹🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️❣️❣️
“Her strength brings me to my knees.
Her honour is like a sword to my gut, slowly bleeding me.
She’s the other half of me.
The dream I didn’t know I was chasing.
The quiet to the storm in my soul. “ Caleb
“Her strength brings me to my knees.
Her honour is like a sword to my gut, slowly bleeding me.
She’s the other half of me.
The dream I didn’t know I was chasing.
The quiet to the storm in my soul. “ Caleb
September 21, 2019
Spoilers ahead, 4.5*
Cassidy Freeman has lived through hell but thankfully made it to the other side. She now runs a successful wedding planning business with her family. When her brother drops a new client on them Cassidy finds herself, for the first time, attracted and interested in a man who seems to be none other than one of the grooms! Or is he? With the misconception cleared up Caleb makes it clear that he's into Cassidy and would like a chance with her but her horrific past makes it hard for Cassidy to trust and she's not sure she's willing to take a chance on the man who flips her world upside down.
Caleb returns from war and opened up an investigation business with his best friend. When his brother asks him to meet the wedding planner he walks in on a hilarious family meeting but it's the petite Cassidy that captures his attention. Even With the secret that he's keeping from her Caleb can't bring himself to resist the strength and beauty of Cassidy, he only hopes that when she finds out the truth that she won't run from him forever
This book broke my heart, Cassidy was taken as a child and sold to despicable men for years until she was rescued by Phillip who was living in his own hell. They escaped together and eventually found the rest of their sisters and through sheer grit and determination were able to establish a successful business. I have a massive, massive crush on Cassidy. She was so strong yet sweet, funny and brave. I really admired her and her general attitude.
Caleb was a good hero as well, from the moment he met Cassidy he was gone for her and never looked back. I expected the fact that he knew her entire history and didn't tell her to cause drama and a separation but the author didn't take things in that direction
There were some issues left hanging that unfortunately lowered my rating a bit, I'd have liked Cassidy's history cleared up a bit more, some more information about what exactly Caleb knew that he never confessed, and what exactly happened to her abusers. It felt like the ending was rushed and all outstanding issues glossed over.
All in all I really enjoyed this one and though the set up of book 2 is not my cuppa I'm still going to take a chance on it
h was repeatedly raped as a young child by different men
We actually don't get the sexual history of the H but he didn't seem to be a manwhore
No OW/OM drama
Issues of child abuse are very present as the h's siblings seemed to have all or most been abused in one form or another
H's brother was drugged and beaten for being gay
Cassidy Freeman has lived through hell but thankfully made it to the other side. She now runs a successful wedding planning business with her family. When her brother drops a new client on them Cassidy finds herself, for the first time, attracted and interested in a man who seems to be none other than one of the grooms! Or is he? With the misconception cleared up Caleb makes it clear that he's into Cassidy and would like a chance with her but her horrific past makes it hard for Cassidy to trust and she's not sure she's willing to take a chance on the man who flips her world upside down.
Caleb returns from war and opened up an investigation business with his best friend. When his brother asks him to meet the wedding planner he walks in on a hilarious family meeting but it's the petite Cassidy that captures his attention. Even With the secret that he's keeping from her Caleb can't bring himself to resist the strength and beauty of Cassidy, he only hopes that when she finds out the truth that she won't run from him forever
This book broke my heart, Cassidy was taken as a child and sold to despicable men for years until she was rescued by Phillip who was living in his own hell. They escaped together and eventually found the rest of their sisters and through sheer grit and determination were able to establish a successful business. I have a massive, massive crush on Cassidy. She was so strong yet sweet, funny and brave. I really admired her and her general attitude.
Caleb was a good hero as well, from the moment he met Cassidy he was gone for her and never looked back. I expected the fact that he knew her entire history and didn't tell her to cause drama and a separation but the author didn't take things in that direction
There were some issues left hanging that unfortunately lowered my rating a bit, I'd have liked Cassidy's history cleared up a bit more, some more information about what exactly Caleb knew that he never confessed, and what exactly happened to her abusers. It felt like the ending was rushed and all outstanding issues glossed over.
All in all I really enjoyed this one and though the set up of book 2 is not my cuppa I'm still going to take a chance on it
h was repeatedly raped as a young child by different men
We actually don't get the sexual history of the H but he didn't seem to be a manwhore
No OW/OM drama
Issues of child abuse are very present as the h's siblings seemed to have all or most been abused in one form or another
H's brother was drugged and beaten for being gay
August 2, 2018
This is one of those rare debuts where you just can’t believe this was the author’s first book!! I absolutely loved this story and the entire cast of characters. Normally the hero is what makes a story for me, but in this case I fell in love with Cassidy. She’s so fierce, strong and independent, especially after everything she’s been through. She and Caleb have a unique story and I enjoyed the ride. I would’ve liked just a little more of an in depth look in the situation with Keene towards the end but I was so happy to see he will be getting his own book!! Can’t wait to read more from this author!
July 27, 2019
It's hard for me to believe that this is Tracey's first book! It's awesome! Loved every single page of it! Caleb & Cassidy are so such a wonderful couple, perfect for each other.
Can't wait to read Ali's & Keene's story!
Can't wait to read Ali's & Keene's story!
August 12, 2018
This debut novel totally blew me away! One of my top reads of 2018. Free To Dream was recommended to me and I couldn't resist picking it up. And I'm so happy I did.
This story stands out in a market that it saturated with the same old romance books. Romance books that you feel like you've read a million times before.
But Cassidy and Caleb's story is unique, suspenseful and full of heartache and swoon. The secondary characters are a delight too.
This book had me hooked from the first line and I savoured and devoured every single word.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
A brilliant debut novel that deserves your time.
Please read it!
This story stands out in a market that it saturated with the same old romance books. Romance books that you feel like you've read a million times before.
But Cassidy and Caleb's story is unique, suspenseful and full of heartache and swoon. The secondary characters are a delight too.
This book had me hooked from the first line and I savoured and devoured every single word.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
A brilliant debut novel that deserves your time.
Please read it!
June 29, 2024
Start the Freemans from the very beginning. FREE in KU!
Free to Dream is an:
❤️ insta-attraction
❤️ small-town
❤️ family saga
❤️ sassy, CEO, heroine,
❤️ alpha ex-military hero,
❤️ Amaryllis family banter,
❤️ spicy AF scenes,
❤️ an emotionally gripping story,
❤️ and a guaranteed HEA!
❤️ This book can be read as a complete standalone.
One click or read FREE in KU! https://geni.us/FreeDream
Free to Dream is an:
❤️ insta-attraction
❤️ small-town
❤️ family saga
❤️ sassy, CEO, heroine,
❤️ alpha ex-military hero,
❤️ Amaryllis family banter,
❤️ spicy AF scenes,
❤️ an emotionally gripping story,
❤️ and a guaranteed HEA!
❤️ This book can be read as a complete standalone.
One click or read FREE in KU! https://geni.us/FreeDream
September 7, 2018
3.5 stars
Review by Lisa Kane
This one just didn't do it for me. The main character was so abused that she had never been on an actual date. The insta love between Cassidy and Caleb felt forced. There were so many characters in her adopted family (all abuse survivors) that their personalities just become too jumbled and mixed up. And every single one of them was so talented and successful...
The stories from the family members themselves and their histories would have been enough but then there was a couple of more mysteries thrown in. Caleb and Cassidy have more in common than they think and things just got a little too unbelievable for me.
The writing style is good, the books has good bones. I think the author has a lot of talent. There was just too much going on for me to enjoy this story.
Review by Lisa Kane
This one just didn't do it for me. The main character was so abused that she had never been on an actual date. The insta love between Cassidy and Caleb felt forced. There were so many characters in her adopted family (all abuse survivors) that their personalities just become too jumbled and mixed up. And every single one of them was so talented and successful...
The stories from the family members themselves and their histories would have been enough but then there was a couple of more mysteries thrown in. Caleb and Cassidy have more in common than they think and things just got a little too unbelievable for me.
The writing style is good, the books has good bones. I think the author has a lot of talent. There was just too much going on for me to enjoy this story.
July 20, 2018
This is my first book by Tracey Jerald and certainly won’t be my last! I loved it!!!! Couldn’t put it down!
July 24, 2018
I absolutely loved this story!!! So many twists and turns, angst, love, lust it was just amazing.
Cassidy has a very dark past but keeps it hidden very well or so she thought. In walks Caleb to help plan his brother's wedding. Sparks FLY! This book is so much more than your average love story. It touches on some very deep subjects and the author portrays them so well. I can't wait to read the next book!
"Just because something is a difficult mess, doesn't mean you won't find something beautiful in it"
Cassidy has a very dark past but keeps it hidden very well or so she thought. In walks Caleb to help plan his brother's wedding. Sparks FLY! This book is so much more than your average love story. It touches on some very deep subjects and the author portrays them so well. I can't wait to read the next book!
"Just because something is a difficult mess, doesn't mean you won't find something beautiful in it"
Want to read
September 22, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/19/2019)! 🎁
May 5, 2019
Must read!
I don't think I have ever read a more dramatic story ever! The lives torn apart and slowly out back together again. You will cry reading this story but you will also laugh!
I don't think I have ever read a more dramatic story ever! The lives torn apart and slowly out back together again. You will cry reading this story but you will also laugh!
August 10, 2018
This book was amazing! I was truly on the edge of my seat while reading this. With the amount of twists and turns it had it was anything but surprising that I was eat and sleeping this book. It had so many emotions. Fantastic plot. I was obsessed with this book. So much so I picked it up every chance I had. Even taking it to the bathroom with me. The way this book flowed was amazing. There were things in this book not many authors would delve into. This was done in such a way that it made you fall in love the book even more. The chemistry between the characters was off the charts. This author made it so easy to love the couple. What was even more surprising was this book was a debut for the author. It was truly one of my favorite reads. - By Vanessa
February 5, 2019
My heart
Sweet lord. I had no idea going into this new to me author that she was going to gut me. This story. Holy hell. Cassidy and Caleb are truly what love should be about.
The horrors, and the subsequent aftermath, Cassidy went through was enough to give even the heartless a heart. She truly is the epitome of, "she believed she could, so she she did." What she endeared was handled with grace by the author which I greatly appreciate. The relationships she had with her family was beautiful. I loved the humor at the appropriate times and the true devotion proving that family doesn't have to be blood. I love how Caleb helped her and gave her the trust she needed.
Unexpected twists in addition to an amazing story made this a true gem of a book.
Sweet lord. I had no idea going into this new to me author that she was going to gut me. This story. Holy hell. Cassidy and Caleb are truly what love should be about.
The horrors, and the subsequent aftermath, Cassidy went through was enough to give even the heartless a heart. She truly is the epitome of, "she believed she could, so she she did." What she endeared was handled with grace by the author which I greatly appreciate. The relationships she had with her family was beautiful. I loved the humor at the appropriate times and the true devotion proving that family doesn't have to be blood. I love how Caleb helped her and gave her the trust she needed.
Unexpected twists in addition to an amazing story made this a true gem of a book.
August 13, 2018
Addicting 10 shinning stars!!!
This book consumed me from prologue to end its because of the way this author wrote it was beautiful even the angst was worth my tears.
The darkness Cassidy suffered had me filled with emotions and hurt for her. What a strong woman.
Cassidy & Caleb's chemistry was off the charts and how Caleb was her 1st in so many ways still has my heart beating.
I also loved all the secondary characters.
I still cannot believe this is a debut novel for this author.
Cannot wait for more, more, more
This book consumed me from prologue to end its because of the way this author wrote it was beautiful even the angst was worth my tears.
The darkness Cassidy suffered had me filled with emotions and hurt for her. What a strong woman.
Cassidy & Caleb's chemistry was off the charts and how Caleb was her 1st in so many ways still has my heart beating.
I also loved all the secondary characters.
I still cannot believe this is a debut novel for this author.
Cannot wait for more, more, more
August 13, 2018
The whole story is over the top : abuse survivors with crazy personalities create their own family and wedding planning business, strong h, caring alpha H, weddings, secrets, twists every 10pages...
I am on vacation so it fit the « I don’t care if it is believable, I am on vacation » bill perfectly!
Full disclosure : I skipped all pages describing her abuse, it was too horrific for me.
I am on vacation so it fit the « I don’t care if it is believable, I am on vacation » bill perfectly!
Full disclosure : I skipped all pages describing her abuse, it was too horrific for me.
January 2, 2019
It was a good read but the h’s past abuse was hard to read. To the extent author wrote about it, I would have liked more closure as to the punishment of the abusers. The way the author ended up linking the characters at end was completely unbelievable. Also, the epilogue wasn’t belieavable to the extent they had kids, hard to believe given her past abuse.
July 30, 2018
Great book. This is my first book by Tracey Jerald and I will be reading more. If you haven't tried any of her books, give them you a try you will like them.
August 21, 2018
OMG the feels!! This book made me laugh, smile and cry the whole way thru!! I was absolutely not disappointed!! There is some very heart wrenching times.. but it all comes together so well great!
September 3, 2018
Very good debut novel, does not end in cliffy, next book is about 2 characters we meet in Free to Dream. Looking forward to it!
September 20, 2019
Really Good!
4.5 Stars
This book did start off a little slow and I wasn’t a huge fan of Caleb at first. He was kind of a jerk in the beginning. Once Caleb screwed his head on straight things really picked up.
Cassidy was such a strong, brave and broken woman just trying to live her life the best way she knew how. Her family was her support system but even they can drive you a little mad sometimes, lol. Meeting Caleb shifted Cassidy’s whole world around. She had feelings she never felt before and it terrified her yet exhilarated her at the same time. Caleb was just as entranced with Cassidy as she was him, except he knew all of her deep dark secrets. Every single one of them and yet he still admired her and respected her for everything she went through and who she became on the other side. He was respectful, supportive, patient, caring and loving. He made Cassidy feel loved, cherished and safe. This story wasn’t a light one. It was dark at times and incredibly sad yet addicting and beautiful.
Safety and Spoilers
This book is safe in the fact that there are no scenes with op, no ow/om drama but there are several retellings of sexual abuse that the h experienced as a small child. Her childhood was horrible and tragic and could be hard for some to read. The H is not a virgin and is experienced but nothing else is mentioned. h is not a virgin but was raped as a child and hasn’t been with anyone since.
4.5 Stars
This book did start off a little slow and I wasn’t a huge fan of Caleb at first. He was kind of a jerk in the beginning. Once Caleb screwed his head on straight things really picked up.
Cassidy was such a strong, brave and broken woman just trying to live her life the best way she knew how. Her family was her support system but even they can drive you a little mad sometimes, lol. Meeting Caleb shifted Cassidy’s whole world around. She had feelings she never felt before and it terrified her yet exhilarated her at the same time. Caleb was just as entranced with Cassidy as she was him, except he knew all of her deep dark secrets. Every single one of them and yet he still admired her and respected her for everything she went through and who she became on the other side. He was respectful, supportive, patient, caring and loving. He made Cassidy feel loved, cherished and safe. This story wasn’t a light one. It was dark at times and incredibly sad yet addicting and beautiful.
Safety and Spoilers
This book is safe in the fact that there are no scenes with op, no ow/om drama but there are several retellings of sexual abuse that the h experienced as a small child. Her childhood was horrible and tragic and could be hard for some to read. The H is not a virgin and is experienced but nothing else is mentioned. h is not a virgin but was raped as a child and hasn’t been with anyone since.
Read
October 25, 2022Mah gah this was boring.......so much info dump in the first three chapters of the book of who does what and has what talents in their event planning company and this guy who is part of a super rich family getting married. And nothing was happening !!!!!! 😐😐😐😐 dnf
August 4, 2019
The book was realistic. These young adults have gone through a lot, but came on the side. There are some surprising incidents.
November 30, 2019
Great story!
Well done! A few twists I didn't see coming! Enjoyed the characters, perfectly created, the emotions, the pain, and the strength shining through.
Well done! A few twists I didn't see coming! Enjoyed the characters, perfectly created, the emotions, the pain, and the strength shining through.
July 19, 2019
I keep asking myself this question......
Why did I wait so long to read this book!!!! I was txting my girlfriends telling them that they need to read this book! I was at 10% I knew, I was invested in this book and this series.
Free to Dream started out so intense (I was not expecting that)...I loved the story, the complexity of Cassidy and Caleb’s life and relationships with their siblings. Once I started, I found it difficult to stop reading...alas, adulthood reared it’s head, but every spare moment I had, I was reading.
I am completely invested in this series and with Ms. Jerald’s writing! Now, excuse me as I one click Free to Run and get lost in Keene and Alison’s story.
Why did I wait so long to read this book!!!! I was txting my girlfriends telling them that they need to read this book! I was at 10% I knew, I was invested in this book and this series.
Free to Dream started out so intense (I was not expecting that)...I loved the story, the complexity of Cassidy and Caleb’s life and relationships with their siblings. Once I started, I found it difficult to stop reading...alas, adulthood reared it’s head, but every spare moment I had, I was reading.
I am completely invested in this series and with Ms. Jerald’s writing! Now, excuse me as I one click Free to Run and get lost in Keene and Alison’s story.
September 1, 2019
Caleb & Cassidy
This is my first book by this author and I was absolutely amazed that this is a debut novel, the unique spin on this series is heartbreaking and the characters even the side characters are realistic and each individual personality shines through.
Caleb and Cassidy’s story of healing and finding love after horrible experiences is truly a must read. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and just know it’s going to rip me apart and then stitch me back together again, just like this one did.
This is my first book by this author and I was absolutely amazed that this is a debut novel, the unique spin on this series is heartbreaking and the characters even the side characters are realistic and each individual personality shines through.
Caleb and Cassidy’s story of healing and finding love after horrible experiences is truly a must read. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and just know it’s going to rip me apart and then stitch me back together again, just like this one did.
July 14, 2019
This was a much darker story than I usually read but I did end up lot it. The story was engaging and ultimately a sweet read. I didn't want to put it down! Cassidy had an interesting family also - I'm guessing at least some of them have their own stories eventually as well. And I loved that the ending of this book was realistic and involved the hero and heroine being in couple's therapy to work through their issues. I also loved how climactic the ending was - I didn't piece some of it together until the end (always nice to have a surprising plot twist included. This was a good read and I'd recommend it (be warned though that the book has some very dark pieces to it).
August 7, 2018
If I could write a debut novel as well as Tracey Jerald just did, I'd quit my job tomorrow.
What a great book! Fascinating plot, full of twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages. I love a well written romantic suspense, and this book delivered.
CEO wedding planner Cassidy Freeman knows how important maintaining focus and control is when trying to pull off every bride's dream wedding. She and her siblings have been the masterminds behind too many successful weddings and events to count. So, one would think that she must be an expert at exerting control. Well...one would be wrong. Cassidy's past has continued to torture her for twenty years, plaguing her with nightmares that tarnish her reality, sense of calm, and general self worth. Cassidy fears that so much damage has been done to her, that she will never find true inner peace and happiness. She may never have a beautiful wedding to a wonderful man of her very own.
Enter Caleb Lockwood, ex-military veteran turned private investigator recently hired by his brother Ryan to look into the wedding planning company he and his fiancé have hired for help with their big day.
When Caleb and Cassidy meet, it does not go smoothly...one could say control and poise go right out the picture window. Cassidy falsely assumes that Caleb is betrothed to Ryan after a very cute and comedic first encounter. Caleb is quite smitten with the petite spitfire and sparks fly.
When Caleb begins to look into the Freeman family, he does not like what he finds. There are skeletons in every family, but this family lives within a mass grave. So many secrets revealed.
As we delve into Cassidy's past with Caleb, you cannot help but to fall for her. She is courageous, determined, strong, and sweet. She deserves a caring, supportive, protective, and gorgeous man like Caleb who makes it his mission to help Cassidy heal, recognize her true worth, and reach for the dreams of her huge heart.
While this book deals with some heavy and tough subject matter, it does so in a way that is caring and respectful. The details are written in a way that I do not feel readers should feel upset or offended by them. Cassidy and Caleb are easy to root for, that is true, but you'll love the family ties in this story as well. The have such an open style of communication that will leave you laughing at times. I look forward to many more stories centered around their lives too.
The story is well-written, contained no unnecessary filler to detract from the progression, and provided us with likable characters that we were happy to invest time in getting to know. The relationship between Cassidy and Caleb developed and flourished in a meaningful way that felt natural for two mature people who have lived more than most in their short lives. While there was instant
attraction, there was not a feeling of insta-love which I was grateful for. The ending is one that left me anticipating the next release asap.
Some people experience things in their lives that are not easily left behind, and some people get their very own guardian in the form of Caleb Lockwood to make sure the future is the only thing that really matters anymore!
Highly recommend this brand new author! Well done.
What a great book! Fascinating plot, full of twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages. I love a well written romantic suspense, and this book delivered.
CEO wedding planner Cassidy Freeman knows how important maintaining focus and control is when trying to pull off every bride's dream wedding. She and her siblings have been the masterminds behind too many successful weddings and events to count. So, one would think that she must be an expert at exerting control. Well...one would be wrong. Cassidy's past has continued to torture her for twenty years, plaguing her with nightmares that tarnish her reality, sense of calm, and general self worth. Cassidy fears that so much damage has been done to her, that she will never find true inner peace and happiness. She may never have a beautiful wedding to a wonderful man of her very own.
Enter Caleb Lockwood, ex-military veteran turned private investigator recently hired by his brother Ryan to look into the wedding planning company he and his fiancé have hired for help with their big day.
When Caleb and Cassidy meet, it does not go smoothly...one could say control and poise go right out the picture window. Cassidy falsely assumes that Caleb is betrothed to Ryan after a very cute and comedic first encounter. Caleb is quite smitten with the petite spitfire and sparks fly.
When Caleb begins to look into the Freeman family, he does not like what he finds. There are skeletons in every family, but this family lives within a mass grave. So many secrets revealed.
As we delve into Cassidy's past with Caleb, you cannot help but to fall for her. She is courageous, determined, strong, and sweet. She deserves a caring, supportive, protective, and gorgeous man like Caleb who makes it his mission to help Cassidy heal, recognize her true worth, and reach for the dreams of her huge heart.
While this book deals with some heavy and tough subject matter, it does so in a way that is caring and respectful. The details are written in a way that I do not feel readers should feel upset or offended by them. Cassidy and Caleb are easy to root for, that is true, but you'll love the family ties in this story as well. The have such an open style of communication that will leave you laughing at times. I look forward to many more stories centered around their lives too.
The story is well-written, contained no unnecessary filler to detract from the progression, and provided us with likable characters that we were happy to invest time in getting to know. The relationship between Cassidy and Caleb developed and flourished in a meaningful way that felt natural for two mature people who have lived more than most in their short lives. While there was instant
attraction, there was not a feeling of insta-love which I was grateful for. The ending is one that left me anticipating the next release asap.
Some people experience things in their lives that are not easily left behind, and some people get their very own guardian in the form of Caleb Lockwood to make sure the future is the only thing that really matters anymore!
Highly recommend this brand new author! Well done.
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