Valley of Dreams

Opposites attract in the earnest sixth historical romance in Eden’s Hope Springs series (after Long Journey Home). Gruff, alcoholic Patrick O’Connor, a veteran of the Civil War, has been living in Canada since the war ended, allowing his family to believe that he’s dead so that he doesn’t have to own up to his alcoholism. When Patrick’s mother learns he survived, she sends him a letter calling him home to Hope Springs, Wyo. During his stagecoach trip there, Patrick meets effervescent widow Eliza Porter and her young daughter, Lydia, who are also headed to Hope Springs. Once in town, Eliza finds work as a housekeeper, though she dreams of opening an inn, while Patrick struggles to mend fences with his family. Eliza and Patrick grow close in the confines of the tiny town, bonded in part by the irresistibly adorable Lydia, but in order to embrace a future together, Patrick must be willing to give up alcohol and find a healthier way to cope with war trauma. Eden’s fast-paced narration is enhanced by her affable but emotionally scarred protagonists. Readers will be pleased by the tight-knit community and heartfelt emotions of this tender love story. Agent: Pam Victorio, D4EO Literary. (Feb.)