Dreams Rekindled by Amanda Cabot

I was so excited to finally get my hands on Dreams Rekindled by Amanda Cabot.  This is the second book in the Mesquite Springs series and ever since the day I finished the first book, Out of the Embers, I've been patiently waiting for the second book. You could very well read this as a stand alone book, but this is such a wonderful series that I encourage you to read the first book if you haven't yet.  You'll get a much better feel for the town of Mesquite Springs and all the wonderful people that live there.  

In this second book we get to delve deeper into the life of Dorothy Clark.  We learned a little bit about her in Out of the Embers as being the sister of Wyatt.  Now Dorothy is living in town as her brother and new wife are away on their honeymoon.  She's helping out at Polly's Place, but her true dream lies in writing.  Unfortunately in the 1850's there are not very many opportunities for writers. Especially women writers.  

Brandon Holloway has seen the disastrous effects of writing your own opinion in a newspaper.  He is a man running from his past and decides to start over in Mesquite Springs.  The town is without a newspaper and this time he is determined to do things the right way and just publish truth and not opinions.  He is instantly drawn to Dorothy and soon they are working together on the town Newspaper.  Suddenly there is division withing the town and rumors are pointing to Brandon. Now Brandon and Dorothy combine their efforts to figure out who's trying to destroy Brandon's livelihood.  

Brandon and Dorothy are both determined not to marry, but their growing affection towards each other has them questioning their decision.

I loved the sweet romance between Brandon and Dorothy.  My heart ached for Dorothy over some of her fears that caused her to not want to marry.  Phil was also a character that broke my heart. So much heartache in his life and I think what he truly wants is to be happy.

I cannot recommend this book and this author enough.  She has secured a spot on my list of favorite authors.

***Thanks to Revell for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.