5 stars for New Dreams by Ellen Parker #historicalfiction #romanticfiction #familysaga #bookreview
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  • N. N. Light
    • Apr 10, 2023
    • 2 min read

5 stars for New Dreams by Ellen Parker #historicalfiction #romanticfiction #familysaga #bookreview



Title: New Dreams

Author: Ellen Parker

Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Romantic Fiction, Family Saga


Book Blurb:


America beckons with opportunity during the 1850s.


Louisa Mueller, a baker’s daughter, arrives in Elm Ridge, Illinois with determination to learn English and work as a baker. Since the death of her sweetheart a year ago, she pushes aside thoughts of marriage. However, she’s intrigued by a fellow passenger who tells the most interesting stories.


Desperate for a fresh start, a young thief takes the name Hans Hoffmann when a look-alike passenger dies during the trans-Atlantic passage. Vowing to be an honest man in America, Hans discovers temptation wears many disguises. Will the pair be rewarded as they attempt their new dreams in a strange land?


My Review:


This has to be an important book for bringing attention to the issue of anti-German feeling that swept across America just before the Civil War. The author must be commended for the excellent research done to create this tome.

The short time period presented in this romantic historical story is very realistically portrayed. Louisa is a character who a reader can't help but admire. This book is the epitome of the triumph of the human spirit. The trials and tribulations of Louisa would be enough to make the book of Job seem like a light comedy.

The other main character, Hans, is an interesting look at humanity too. One might think in reviewing 'Hans' that morals were lacking in the mid-19th century. As a cup half full kinda fella, I like to believe the majority of the people followed the ten commandments pretty faithfully then.

The book could be considered a strong family saga. There will be a lot of people interested in reading this. If you are a fan of people dealing with many challenges and overcoming them, then this is for you. If you are a fan of immigrant historical fiction, then I cannot recommend this enough.

A well written, excellently researched book that will make for a good read for many interested readers.


My Rating: 5 stars


Buy it Now:




Nook







Author Biography:


Raised in a household filled with books, it was only natural that Ellen Parker grew into an avid reader. She turned to writing as a second career and enjoys spinning the type of story which appeals to multiple generations. She encourages her readers to share her work with mother or daughter – or both. Ellen currently lives in St. Louis. When not guiding characters to “happily ever after” she’s apt to be reading, walking in the neighborhood, or tending her tiny garden.


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Reviewed by: Mr. N

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