I really enjoy how Bethany House actually put the hero on the cover of Susan Anne Mason's latest novel, The Brightest of Dreams. So many books in the Christian fiction market always has the heroine on the novel. It was nice to see a different perspective for the cover. I have read the first two books in Mason's Canadian Crossing series, and I couldn't wait to read Quinn's story. It does have a ring of familiarity to it, but I felt engrossed in the plot, and I couldn't wait to see if Quinn actually kept his promise to his father, so I stayed glued to the story. The romance was sweet and organic. I enjoyed seeing hints of the main characters in another book in this series. loved how the story ended. It made me smile. Overall, The Brightest of Dreams is a delightful read filled with heartfelt characters who captured my imagination. I can't wait to see what Mason comes up with next.


I received a complimentary copy of The Brightest of Dreams by Susan Anne Mason from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own.

This was my first experience with a novel by Susan Anne Mason, and I can guarantee it will not be my last. The Brightest of Dreams is a beautifully moving story that showcases the importance of faith no matter what the circumstances are, and how there's always light shining a way in the darkness.

One of my personal favorite things about reading historical fiction is learning about important parts of history that I wasn't really aware of prior. Being Canadian myself, I was intrigued by the synopsis of this one, and how it touches on a lesser known part of our country's history, the thousands and thousands of children that were brought over from the United Kingdom to be used as indentured laborers throughout the Canadian workforce. Reading Susan's story about the horrific conditions these children faced more often than not was eye opening and heart breaking, and I'm thankful that efforts are being made to bring out more of the truth about these darker times in Canadian history.

While the theme of her story is concerned with darker times, I loved the way it's showcased that even in those times God is still in control, and that there's always hope even when it seems hopeless. Quinn, Julia, Geoffrey and Harriet all have their own personal troubles, but each showcase an extreme amount of selflessness in the way they go about helping those suffering around them

Quinn is one of my favorite book hero's to date, as I loved his selfless nature, his compassionate heart, and the way he's determined to do whatever it takes to keep his ailing family together. Julia's bravery and determination made her stand out over the average book heroine, and I really enjoyed how her and Quinn's romance first starts out as a beautiful friendship. I also appreciated the fact that even though she'd been raised in upper society, she refused to think of herself as better than anyone else, and continued to believe that we are all equal in His eyes.

If you're a fan of historical fiction, then I highly suggest picking this one up. The story is well paced, the writing keeps the reader engaged, and the faith element is always at the forefront.

I really enjoyed this one, and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Final Rating: 4/5

Thanks so much to Bethany House and NetGalley for the opportunity to advance read this.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher (Bethany House) in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not required to give a positive review.

A family reunited

I loved this book. It tells a story of the Home Children sent from England to Canada from an orphanage. When Quinn came back from serving in the Army he found that his mother was living in a workhouse and very ill and his sister and two brothers had been placed in an orphanage because his mother could no longer care for them. When he asks his boss for the time off and an advance in wages to search for his siblings he is granted that request with a stipulation that he search for and return with his boss's niece Julia that has run off with a wounded Canadian Soldier she was caring for.

Quinn takes on the challenge and this is the story of his quest. He arrives in Canada with no knowledge of where to look to find his siblings or the missing niece Julia. As the story unfolds within the pages of the books life will change for Quinn and Julia and he will realize what it is to be a real family. The book is well written in clean Christian writing. There is love, faith , understanding and forgiveness found within these pages.

I loved the story, the characters and how well the book is written covering a subject matter which has been mostly lost in history. I would recommend this book.

Thanks to Susan Ann Mason, Bethany House Publishers, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an advance copy of the book.

BRIGHTEST OF DREAMS by SUSAN ANNE MASON is a Christian historical romance which takes place in 1919. Whilst the author deals with some heavy subjects, mainly the British Home Children in Canada, the overall message is one of hope.
When Quinten Aspinall, the Earl of Brentwood's valet, asks for leave in order to find his siblings who have been sent to Canada from the Barnado home in England, he is asked by his employer to try and find his neice, Julia Holloway, as well.
The story is very well told and gives us a great deal of food for thought. There are some really likeable characters who we come to admire for the way they deal with what they have been forced to endure. Unconditional love, righteous anger, compassion and protection of one's fellow man, especially where children are concerned, and the importance of speaking up against injustice, are all topics that form part of the strong Christian message running through the story.
It is altogether an enjoyable and inspirational read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

This story was hard to put down. Quinn began his journey in England, and was going to Canada in hopes of finding his three siblings, who had been shipped off by mistake. His employer asks him to locate his niece while he was there. He finds her and a friendship forms between them. As their friendship develops, their feeling grow toward one another as he finds each sibling. Secrets are held, and then discovered as they begin to fall in love. An excellent story I will enjoy reading over and over again.

My favorite in the series!

I loved Quinn and Julia so much!

Honestly, this book has some difficult topics that were not easy to read about. I really loved how all of these concerning situations were dealt with by prayer and a lot of grace. I also loved how people always banded together to help each other and how honesty was always best in the end.

I loved the romance in this book. It wasn't over the top - but it was true and overcame hardships. I also loved the importance of family.

I think my favorite part of this book was Quinn. He was always there for everyone. He always put everyone else first and always supported his friends and family. I also loved how he handled some things at the end of the book.

I've really enjoyed this series!

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This is my honest review.