Unrealized Dreams

by Shelli Armstrong

Unconventional and tomboyish, McKay Porter's dreams were never more complicated than living on the plot of land her father had set aside for her and being the wife of the man who helped run her ranch. Ashton Hurst only ever wanted to reclaim the land that was meant to be his, and the childhood home that had been kept from him for far too long. His grandfather's mandate being the only thing standing in his way. When McKay's prospects of becoming a respectable wife are challenged, her mother sends her back east to live with her aunt and uncle. Her plans are to behave long enough so that she can go home and set up her ranch as she always intended, but when she meets Mr. Hurst, she finds a challenge she's unable to pass up. And they both find out that they have been waiting for their unrealized dreams to come true.

359 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2010

About the author

Published in Woman's World magazine -- JUNE 16, 2011!

Reviews

[Shelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like clean romances, then you'll love this. All the romance, none of the explicit sex. Just a lot of making out. It's my first novel, and I have a lot to learn, but I think I've managed to write the exact type of novel I like to read when looking for a fluffy, fun read.

[Jmariemi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this little romance novel. The characters seemed very real. They were slightly flawed people. I couldn't put this book down until it was done! And that's a good sign.

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Mrs. Porter’s sends her daughter McKay back East to live with her more “refined” relatives, it is in the hopes that she will learn refinement and attract an acceptable man in marriage. Not an easy task, given that McKay has been raised in the wilds on a ranch in Nebraska and has manners similar to those of her four older brothers. Nevertheless, she does learn a few niceties along the way while attracting the attention (not all of it good) of several refined individuals.

Ashton Hurst has returned home for one thing and one thing only—to claim his father’s land. But his grandfather has added an unwanted caveat. Ashton must marry, preferably someone of his grandfather’s choosing. But when McKay Porter accidentally slanders Aston’s good name as a gentlemen, she takes it upon herself to make amends by finding him a wife, much to his dismay. What happens when what they thought wanted doesn’t agree with what they really need?

"Unrealized Dreams" is a delightful book about two people struggling against what society expects of them while trying to become the people they were meant to be and finding the person they were meant to love. Fans will enjoy McKay’s spirit, knack for getting into impossible situations, and always being at the center of controversy. Ashton is wonderful as the reluctant eligible bachelor who realizes that the one he wants in the last person his grandfather will approve of as a wife.

The main downside to this story is the ending. The resolution to Ashton and McKay’s problems is a bit too trite and convenient. Aside from the ending, the story is well thought out with good pacing that never feels rushed or as if things are happening too fast. A wonderful first effort by Shelli Armstrong and a good read.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell in love with these characters, well other than the ones you are meant to hate. I am not a huge fan of romance novels but if all of them were like this one, I might change my mind. The story line was somewhat typical of these types of books but still an enjoyable read. I am a hard critic, with a little revision it would earn 4 1/2 stars. This was the author's first book. Fantastic job really. Looking forward to the next one.

[meghanmitton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great book! If you're looking for a good, clean romance, check this one out. It's lots of fun and the characters and plot will keep you coming back for more. I only hope that we see more from Ms. Armstrong in the future!

[matti kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

really good, clean novel. the characters were intriguing and i was so excited to see where they led me. they were *real* characters, like people i know (which doesn't always happen and was really refreshing to see). i am eager to see more from this author.