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Beyond All Dreams: A Novel
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Beyond All Dreams: A Novel
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Beyond All Dreams: A Novel
Audiobook9 hours

Beyond All Dreams: A Novel

Written by Elizabeth Camden

Narrated by Xe Sands

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

4.5/5

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Currently unavailable

Currently unavailable

About this audiobook

Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

LanguageEnglish
Release dateNov 13, 2018
ISBN9781974927586
Unavailable
Beyond All Dreams: A Novel
Author

Elizabeth Camden

Elizabeth Camden is a RITA and Christy Award winning author. A research librarian at a small college in central Florida, she has published several scholarly articles and four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and her love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. She lives with her husband near Orlando, Florida. For more information, visit elizabethcamden.com.

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Reviews for Beyond All Dreams

Rating: 4.3281249375 out of 5 stars
4.5/5

64 ratings15 reviews

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  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    After not being super thrilled with previous Camden books I have read, this one was a delightful treat!

    The characters were absolutely fabulous and quirky and so unique. From Anna with her contrasting spunk and mousey voice to Luke, the arrogant but adorable congressman, to Neville, dear sweet Neville.

    The historical aspect was very interesting and even taught me some interesting things about that time period that I didn't know - which is always a plus.

    Also, can we talk about the coolness of Anna's job? Like, living in the Library of Congress as a librarian??? Sign me up!

    Overall, a very enjoyable historical read! The romance was a bit over the top at times for my personal tastes and there were a few times the plot seemed to drag, hence the four stars.

    Definitely recommended!
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Anna O'Brien loves her position as map librarian at the Library of Congress. Preserving historical details and assisting those who need such information gives her great satisfaction. When Anna discovers a discrepancy regarding the demise of the USS Culpeper, the ship on which her late father was stationed, Anna immediately alerts the navy. Surprisingly, the navy has no intention of correcting the error and Anna's preoccupation with the USS Culpeper heightens. Her search for answers leads her into partnership with Luke Callahan, a dashing and powerful congressman, who wants more than friendship. As the mystery and danger deepen so do the feelings between Luke and Anna. Will their relationship survive when the truth is revealed? Read more in Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden.Beyond All Dreams is my favorite novel by Elizabeth Camden. The original plot, combined with romance, historical mystery, and poetry references created an enjoyable story that I intend to read again in the future. The book lover in me appreciated the setting of the Library of Congress, perhaps more than others would. However, other aspects kept me reading. I could identify with Anna's respect and affection for books and details. Luke Callahan's character was a powerful force in the story and the romance between Luke and Anna was complicated, but sweet. The mystery of the USS Culpeper was unpredictable and remained a mystery to me as long as it was to Anna. Overall, reading Beyond All Dreams was a wonderful experience. I recommend it to fans of inspirational fiction who are interested in a tale of mystery and romance with just the right amount of depth.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Anna O'Brien has her dream job. She works in the Library of Congress and is taking part in moving from the "old" library to the "new". The book is set in the late 1890's in Washington D.C. Anna is single and finds fulfillment in her life. She has regrets and hopes, but her biggest desire is to find out what happened to the ship The Culpeper. The ship her father lost his life on 15 years ago.I liked that Anna is removed from her comfort zone when the dashing Congressman, Luke Callahan, whirls into her life. His energy and inquisitiveness pull her along in his wake. He has the right spark to help her break free from some of her inhibitions and so she can excel.The book has a underlying mystery. Anna searches to uncover discrepancies in a report about the Culpeper. Her research is putting her in danger. There are secrets that are best left uncovered. I really enjoyed how she is determined to put the truth in the history books. Part of her drive is to find out what happened to her fathers. Her intentions are honorable, in spite of the opposition surrounding her.The romance is a little volatile in nature. Anna and Luke are opposites in many ways. Rather than it being an insurmountable obstacle, their differences actually compliment each other. They just need to realize how good they are together and to open their minds and hearts and begin to trust.I really enjoyed this story. There is a strong Christian theme in the book. It is a clean romance.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    5 stars ***** out of a possible 5Historical FictionElizabeth Camden chose an interesting occupation for a young woman in 1897 and what fun it was to step into the functioning Library of Congress in Washington D.C. So much history is explored in the novel, and in a very entertaining way. The stairways were works of art, but I am sure that running up and down them multiple times a day helped the workers keep healthy though they worked in doors. I was fascinated as she went about her day what was required of a map librarian, and all the things that it entailed. The author did an amazing job of making the story come alive with her use of words that caused the images to become real. Though values have remained the same, so much has changed, from the acceptance of women in the workplace, in Congress, as well as technology of which we would not want to lose. I am continually amazed at how much she accomplished with what she had to work with. Today the dream of working is such a prestigious job might still be out of reach for many of us, but a good work ethic is sure to lead the way. Thank you to Chris at Litfuse Publicity Group and BethanyHouse, a division of Baker Publishing Grup for the opportunity to read this book. I was given this book free in exchange for an honest review. A positive critique was not required. The opinions are my own.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    A beautiful blend of history and romance. I took my time reading this novel as it was such an interesting read I didn't want to miss any detail. The settings and characters were so richly developed I found myself completely immersed in their story, time period and could have quite happily stayed there a little bit longer.I liked that congressman Luke Callaghan was not simply a dashing hero to the rescue, but was instead a flawed individual who recognised his own weaknesses and struggled with his inner demons. And ultimately, in the end, having the strength of character to be the man he'd always striven to be.Anna O' Brien, slow to anger and quick to forgive, is his polar opposite and exactly what he needs. A working friendship soon blossoms into respect and love for each other.The political intrigue of the time period fascinated me and it added to the tension in the story. The very real inequalities of being a woman in a man's world also heaped added pressure on Anna and highlighted her strong, admirable character.Both have their own agendas to pursue on Capitol Hill and Anna's obsession with uncovering the truth about her father's death has far reaching consequences, the likes of which has the potential to destroy their fledgling romance and thrust the country into war.Highly recommended.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    This is a lovely story. Though it stay on history and what is going on with senate. It about woman named Anna who wants finds a mistake and want to correct it. Though when she goes to font the Navy. She hit roadblocks along the way. She wants to know the truth.

    Anna want to find out what happen to a ship that disappeared at sea. Luke is also struggling with his spot in Congress. Anna and Luke run into each other. Anna wants the information on this ship. Everyone around her is in the cover up. What could be the real reason of the ship disappearance? There is twist and turn each time you turn the page. What are the secrets that got Anna and Luke are in embroiled in. Will the truth put the nation at risk.

    What will happen to Luke and Anna. Luke is dealing with many problems of his own. Can he raise this nephew Philip. What is going on in Luke hometown that he repentant in Congress in Maine. Luke deal with the loss of another family member. Can Luke control his temper?
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Beyond All Dreams is an interesting story about politics in the United States in the late 1890s. Women were not allowed many professional careers because they would replace a man. The Library of Congress employed a handful of women on a probationary basis. The book is about one of the lucky women who got to be a map librarian. The story is based loosely on facts. Clearly the author did a lot of research in the process of writing this book. Four stars were awarded in this review. The book is highly recommended.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Another winner by Elizabeth Camden... good enough to skip some sleep to finish
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I loved the story in this one. Taken for a spin through the unique world of Gilded Age Washington politics and the literary world of the Library of Congress, the reader experiences a truly individual story. This is a trademark of Camden, I’ve noticed, a story that is usually never been told and historical details that come to life. The author’s research is always top notch, and details are woven into her narrative in such a way that everything is seamless.Anna and Luke were portrayed wonderfully. Both leads had depth of emotion and personality, enough that I felt like I was reading about real people. The author took both on journeys of growth that engrossed at least this reader, with outlooks on life that changed with the currents and changes of life.Those journeys of life both characters experienced highlighted again the author’s fantastic habit of incorporating subtly her Christian morality messages. The power of forgiveness and the ability to go outside your comfort zone to grasp opportunities in life, both romantically and professionally, are powerful lessons to anyone, in today’s world or back then.This is another great work by Camden. It just shows again why she has become one of my favorite Christian authors. Blending story, research, characterization, and subtle themes all into on awesome package, she takes readers on a voyage and doesn’t let go until the last page. I eagerly await her next release later this year.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    Anna O'Brien loves her position as map librarian at the Library of Congress. Preserving historical details and assisting those who need such information gives her great satisfaction. When Anna discovers a discrepancy regarding the demise of the USS Culpeper, the ship on which her late father was stationed, Anna immediately alerts the navy. Surprisingly, the navy has no intention of correcting the error and Anna's preoccupation with the USS Culpeper heightens. Her search for answers leads her into partnership with Luke Callahan, a dashing and powerful congressman, who wants more than friendship. As the mystery and danger deepen so do the feelings between Luke and Anna. Will their relationship survive when the truth is revealed? Read more in Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden.Beyond All Dreams is my favorite novel by Elizabeth Camden. The original plot, combined with romance, historical mystery, and poetry references created an enjoyable story that I intend to read again in the future. The book lover in me appreciated the setting of the Library of Congress, perhaps more than others would. However, other aspects kept me reading. I could identify with Anna's respect and affection for books and details. Luke Callahan's character was a powerful force in the story and the romance between Luke and Anna was complicated, but sweet. The mystery of the USS Culpeper was unpredictable and remained a mystery to me as long as it was to Anna. Overall, reading Beyond All Dreams was a wonderful experience. I recommend it to fans of inspirational fiction who are interested in a tale of mystery and romance with just the right amount of depth.Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    Read in December, 2014Welcome to a book that brings you back to the late 1800’s, and the new building of the Library of Congress. Walk the halls of the old library, and travel to the various rooms as we glimpse a very different time.Anna O’Brien as where she wants to be and loves her job as the Map Librarian at the Library of Congress, she feels blessed to have such a job, and being a woman is never really secure. She lost her Dad fifteen years ago in a suspicious sinking of his ship near Cuba, or Bermuda? She can’t seem to let go of her suspicious that something is not right about how the ship was lost, and this keeps getting her into trouble.Enter the young Congressman from Maine, he crashes into Anna’s rather quiet life, and we are going to enter deeply into his. He is dealing with his own problems, both professional and personal, and add Anna’s we are heading for a quite a time.We find an attraction by Congressman Luke Callahan towards Anna, but she is very leery of forming any relationship with him, she could loose her job. Will Luke ever gain respect and a return of feelings from Anna?What is the Government hiding? It will blow you mind when you find out the connection, and what is just swept under the rug. We find betrayal, lying, and hurts coming from many directions. How can a personal relationship between Luke and Anna ever survive after all that happens, only God knows, and they share a faith with their Love of Him.I loved being back in this period of time, and learning facts that I had either forgotten or was totally new to me. Meet the young Teddy Roosevelt and learn some of his future along with other historical facts.I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.
  • Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
    4/5
    A peek into the history of the Library of Congress, a mysteriously inaccurate naval document that no one would discuss, a particularly persistent librarian, timid but with fire in her blood, an annoyingly arrogant congressman from Maine, and the circumstances that precipitated the Spanish American War are all ingredients that make this book a fascinating read. Add a generous amount of romance and the book becomes irresistible. Anna O'Brian was one of only a handful of female librarians allowed to work at the Washington D.C. location of the Library of Congress in the late nineteenth century. For her, it was a dream come true. Anna's responsibilities were to care for the library's maps and to conduct research for congressmen. Occasionally librarians even provided expert advice and testimony for congressional committees as well as for individuals. It was her attention to detail and her persistence that made her an excellent researcher. It also got her into trouble with the US Navy when she noticed an error in the reports of an incident that occurred 15 years ago. It also happened to be the same incident in which her father, a cartographer, disappeared with the ship he was sailing on. There was a definite mystery and she wanted it solved.Anna's retiring yet understated fire also caught the eye of Lucas Callahan, a fairly new congressman from Maine. His youth, energy and brashness were all the talk of the town. His rivalry with the Speaker of the House got him removed from the US Budget Committee and reassigned to the committee on Fisheries. Their former war of words had hiked up a notch. But under all his fuss and blunder was a man with principles, who understood the hard-working laborers, the every day man, because his own roots were from the lumber industry. His family's newly gained wealth was only a thin veneer that barely covered a darkness he wanted very much to escape. When he met Anna, he discovered her naturally placid nature brought a peace and calm to his turbulent one. But getting Anna to accept his suit was a challenge. It was not until he became entangled in her mystery document and the affairs of the Navy that she realized how serious he was. The truth behind the mystery had the potential to either drive them apart forever or weld them together. What I enjoyed most about this charming historical fiction was the author's use of wit and humor. Because of her nature, Anna just could not refrain from delivering a not-so-gentle reprimand to the presumptuous congressman who attempted to summon her services and expertise by snapping his fingers. Later, when he began to pursue her with the idea of courtship, she couldn't imagine why. She described herself as a "short, ordinary girl who had a voice like sandpaper and the habits of a hermit crab." Luke himself described her as his opposite. "She never did anything impulsively and liked the safety of her map room in the attic of the Capitol. She hid up in that room like a princess in a castle tower, surrounded by a fortress of books and maps." Some of the historical events in the book are based on actual occurrences. The author created a personal link to the tragic loss of life in the event that eventually helped to fuel the flame of American sentiment against Spain--the link that lead to the Spanish American War. Anna's father lost his life in that tragic event, creating an inner conflict between her desires to avoid war and the loss of more lives and revenge for such a loss in her young life. I was touched by the author's empathetic writing. Many readers today will be able to relate to such a conflict. The author wasn't heavy-handed with spiritual lessons learned during a character's development, but it was there, nevertheless. One doesn't have to talk about God's work to know His Presence is evident through their thoughts and actions. Each of the people we grow to love in this book had to face basic personal challenges. Not only did God meet them in their growing pains, He used other characters to assist in bringing them to maturity faster, much like a jeweler chips away the dross to find the diamond inside. I enjoyed how the author made this happen with every interaction between Luke and Anna. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
  • Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
    3/5
    A few years ago, I read Elizabeth Camden’s Against the Tide. I liked the book well enough that when the opportunity arose to review another of her books, I went for it. Her latest release, Beyond All Dreams, is an interesting story from inside the heart of the Library of Congress in 1897.Anna is a quiet-as-a-mouse map librarian in the Library of Congress, living a predictable but content life in spite the hurts and struggles of her past. Luke is one of the nation’s most powerful, and charming, congressmen left in a fight to save his career after infighting with Congress leadership. Under duress, Anna joins Luke’s quest to save his job and in return, Luke sets out to help Anna solve the mystery of a lost ship. Together, they find themselves surrounded by secrets that could prove perilous.I think my favorite part of this story is my favorite part of every historical fiction — learning more about history. I can honestly say I didn’t have much knowledge of the formation or early workings of the Library of Congress, but as a lit nerd, I definitely find it interesting. And even though I’m not much for politics, I also enjoyed the nuances about Congress and the congressional pages and all of that. It’s a very good testament to a historical fiction novel if I come away with a greater knowledge of history.That said, I read this book almost entirely in one sitting. It was a breeze to get through (and I am a slow reader!), which makes it ideal for a vacation novel or something to pick up on the next snow day. It isn’t a complex masterpiece, but it is certainly enjoyable.I received a complimentary copy of Beyond All Dreams from Bethany House Publishers, but I was not otherwise compensated for this review. All writing, thoughts, and opinions are solely mine.
  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    My Brain was Tickled and Stimulated...What a privilege to read Elizabeth Camden's novel, Beyond All Dreams. I enjoyed the budding romance between solid, prim research librarian Anna O'Brien and rich,self-assured Congressman Luke Callahan. The two are so opposite, but find a common quest. In the end, can they trust God to lead them to complete each other, or should they chalk up the relationship to one more mistake?(Which by the way, Luke has a lot to say about making mistakes!!)This was a multi-leveled story and I enjoyed reading it as such. One part of me was anxious to see if Anna discovers what truly happened to the Culpeper and her father; the other side of me was wide alert, taking in the craftsmanship of the author. My brain was stimulated and tickled by her writing style, a marriage of history/story to picturesque wording. One of example of such: "I was like an unlit match and suddenly you were there and everything flared to life." (SIGH!!)One more quotable: "We are all beautiful but broken people. Jesus forgives us, even when we don't deserve it. That's a pretty good reason to be forgiving." Don't we all need reminders like that!I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.

    1 person found this helpful

  • Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    5/5
    I really loved this story. I loved the romance and the mystery in this book. Anna and Luke were so great together. They had many good things happen to them and some bad things that happen to them but will they overcome all of these. It is so interesting to see what really happened to Anna's father on his last voyage. I received this book from book fun.org for a fair and honest opinion.

    1 person found this helpful