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Beyond All Dreams
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?
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?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 559 reviews
August 12, 2015
I loved this book!
The every-day life of these characters was quite different from anything I'd read before and I really enjoyed it. The mystery side of the story really pulled me in until I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out. And I loved the characters!
I wish I had the time right now to write a good long review, but I don't. So, suffice it to say, this is a great book that I very much enjoyed and I'm looking forward to my next book by this author! :)
The every-day life of these characters was quite different from anything I'd read before and I really enjoyed it. The mystery side of the story really pulled me in until I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out. And I loved the characters!
I wish I had the time right now to write a good long review, but I don't. So, suffice it to say, this is a great book that I very much enjoyed and I'm looking forward to my next book by this author! :)
January 28, 2015
I have had different opinions about each of this author's books so I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this one. Thankfully I loved it! From the very beginning I was sucked into the mystery of the Culpepper and couldn't wait to find out what really had happened.
Luke and Anna were both fantastic characters and I really loved them! I loved how Luke was so passionate about peace, and how much he cared about those close to him. Then there was Anna with her quiet strength, tenacity, and good heart. They were so perfectly matched and it was beautiful how perfectly they balanced each other out.
I loved how unique both of their jobs were I don't think I've read a book with a map librarian or a congressman as the main characters and it was cool to get a look into that world. I am usually bored by politics but the author did a great job of making it realistic yet not dry and monotonous. Also I'd never really read much about the Spanish-American War so it was really cool to see a bit of the events that led up to it.
Overall this was a fantastic novel full of rich historical detail and a rather sweet love story that I completely enjoyed!
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Luke and Anna were both fantastic characters and I really loved them! I loved how Luke was so passionate about peace, and how much he cared about those close to him. Then there was Anna with her quiet strength, tenacity, and good heart. They were so perfectly matched and it was beautiful how perfectly they balanced each other out.
I loved how unique both of their jobs were I don't think I've read a book with a map librarian or a congressman as the main characters and it was cool to get a look into that world. I am usually bored by politics but the author did a great job of making it realistic yet not dry and monotonous. Also I'd never really read much about the Spanish-American War so it was really cool to see a bit of the events that led up to it.
Overall this was a fantastic novel full of rich historical detail and a rather sweet love story that I completely enjoyed!
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 29, 2015
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up for reading level, romance and a couple crude references
Best for Ages: 15
For someone who is a booklover, who enjoyed politics, and has been to DC, this book was a dream come true. Seriously, could the setting have been any more perfect for me? I think not.
I loved Anna from page one to the very end, but then, Camden is the queen of characters as far as I am concerned. Luke is also someone who feels so real and so perfect for Anna. Their strengths, weaknesses, fears, and foes were all so real. They were both flawed yet so wonderful.
Although I loved the story and the characters, I have to admit I felt that the spiritual message was a bit weaker in the book than it was in the others. The whole story was good, be not as strong as Into the Whirlwind or Against the Tide. This did not keep me from enjoying it immensely. There were also a couple of places where some crude/indelicate references were made, but those were made about people who were married.
The setting was by far my favorite part of the book. Having had the privilege of traveling to Washington, DC a couple of years ago, I was able to really see the places she described. I felt as if I was revisiting this historic city. I also agree with Luke, the Library of Congress is gaudy, and less money should have been spent on it.
The political side of things was intriguing to me, as I have worked at my state capitol and find political history very interesting. Although many events were fictional, they felt very authentic. Camden really did great job of capturing the spirit of political life.
I highly recommend this book for those who like flawed heroes, historical fiction, and libraries.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
Best for Ages: 15
For someone who is a booklover, who enjoyed politics, and has been to DC, this book was a dream come true. Seriously, could the setting have been any more perfect for me? I think not.
I loved Anna from page one to the very end, but then, Camden is the queen of characters as far as I am concerned. Luke is also someone who feels so real and so perfect for Anna. Their strengths, weaknesses, fears, and foes were all so real. They were both flawed yet so wonderful.
Although I loved the story and the characters, I have to admit I felt that the spiritual message was a bit weaker in the book than it was in the others. The whole story was good, be not as strong as Into the Whirlwind or Against the Tide. This did not keep me from enjoying it immensely. There were also a couple of places where some crude/indelicate references were made, but those were made about people who were married.
The setting was by far my favorite part of the book. Having had the privilege of traveling to Washington, DC a couple of years ago, I was able to really see the places she described. I felt as if I was revisiting this historic city. I also agree with Luke, the Library of Congress is gaudy, and less money should have been spent on it.
The political side of things was intriguing to me, as I have worked at my state capitol and find political history very interesting. Although many events were fictional, they felt very authentic. Camden really did great job of capturing the spirit of political life.
I highly recommend this book for those who like flawed heroes, historical fiction, and libraries.
I received this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are entirely my own.
August 7, 2025
Highly recommend!
March 9, 2016
There is just so much to enjoy about this novel! It was fascinating to learn about how the movers and shakers in Washington DC worked together and against each other during the turn of the century. All the characters, even minor ones, are portrayed in a way that I could visualize them vividly. Anna's position as one of the first of a small handful of females to work as librarians for the Library of Congress is inspiring since she does not take her job for granted and reveres the work she does. Her first interactions with Luke are hilarious, and as she works more closely with him she learns to stretch beyond her comfort zone professionally and personally as well. There are a variety of political dynamics at play that impede Anna's search for the truth, and the story just keeps growing more intense as loyalty and trust is threatened and priorities are tested in the face of an impending war.
(Thank you to Litfuse Publicity and Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Litfuse Publicity and Bethany House Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
August 2, 2015
Excellent read!!! My favorite of Camden's so far!! It was fast-paced and romantic. The two main characters were well-developed and interesting. The book itself took a lot of research, which I greatly appreciate. There was also a mystery that was well-developed and had a twist at the end.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
**I recieved a kindle copy of this book from the publishers through Netgalley. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone.**
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
**I recieved a kindle copy of this book from the publishers through Netgalley. The opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone.**
December 30, 2015
I loved this just as much as I thought I would! ....and maybe even more. The characters had a real depth and struggled with real problems. It takes talent to write a novel that makes politics engaging, and this one does. Anna and Luke are both having to deal with forgiveness issues and have great hurdles to overcome--Anna, getting an answer to what really happened to her father; Luke, overcoming his great temper and his pride.
July 18, 2019
Beyond all Dreams by Elizabeth Camden | Book Review
STORY | Anna O'Brien may live a predictable life, but when it comes to her work, she's fastidious. As a librarian with access to maps, Anna stumbles across the secret of a disappeared ship. With her suspicions, she goes to a prestigious congressmen, Luke Gallagher.
Once a promising politician, Luke's own secrets cut short his career. Will Anna's quest for the truth help to put him back on the right track?
REVIEW: Historical details that balance the fictional lives of her characters seems to be Elizabeth Camden’s signature. Her later novels have been set against fascinating historical events or memorable pivots from history and her latest is no different. What she never seems to forget is the importance her characters have to the story. even amidst the scope or awe of the history. There's a lot to enjoy about this book from Elizabeth.
The characters are equal parts sensible and sassy, and of course, the prose is as well composed as ever. To be honest, I don’t think I like this novel as well prior releases by Camden (With Every Breath, Against the Tide). It could have been merely that distractions played too big a role during the reading of the book or maybe the story didn’t grab me as much. Either way, I’m sure it had nothing to do with the story or characters. Having said that, let’s move on.
Speaking of the protagonists, they are quite the pair. Where Anna is quiet and unassuming, Luke is determined and is always the center of some commotion in congress. Anna is a balm to his shattered soul, and Luke embodies everything Anna doesn’t want from life. . Her character is one many of us will relate to. She enjoys her work among the history and books of the library. She doesn’t need more than that. She’s content until Luke comes along and turns her world topsy-turvy. His determination to sweep her off her feet is definitely not a suit that easily goes away. Their relationship has interesting turns because of this. Smoothing things out doesn’t necessarily last for long in this relationship!
To add to the character dynamics is the politics of the late 1800’s and a mystery surrounding a ship. There’s also a lot of dynamics in the backgrounds of the characters. What I liked most was not the romance, but some of the twists the story took. Certain outcomes were not what I’d anticipated and it worked to the benefit of the book.
Beyond All Dreams is any historical fiction addict’s dream. It’s a charming story and doesn’t shy away from packing in historical tidbits without lessening the impact of the story. That’s one of the reasons I adore Elizabeth’s writing. She has the balance down to a science and her years honing her skills as an author show that.
Sincere thanks to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this review copy.
STORY | Anna O'Brien may live a predictable life, but when it comes to her work, she's fastidious. As a librarian with access to maps, Anna stumbles across the secret of a disappeared ship. With her suspicions, she goes to a prestigious congressmen, Luke Gallagher.
Once a promising politician, Luke's own secrets cut short his career. Will Anna's quest for the truth help to put him back on the right track?
REVIEW: Historical details that balance the fictional lives of her characters seems to be Elizabeth Camden’s signature. Her later novels have been set against fascinating historical events or memorable pivots from history and her latest is no different. What she never seems to forget is the importance her characters have to the story. even amidst the scope or awe of the history. There's a lot to enjoy about this book from Elizabeth.
The characters are equal parts sensible and sassy, and of course, the prose is as well composed as ever. To be honest, I don’t think I like this novel as well prior releases by Camden (With Every Breath, Against the Tide). It could have been merely that distractions played too big a role during the reading of the book or maybe the story didn’t grab me as much. Either way, I’m sure it had nothing to do with the story or characters. Having said that, let’s move on.
Speaking of the protagonists, they are quite the pair. Where Anna is quiet and unassuming, Luke is determined and is always the center of some commotion in congress. Anna is a balm to his shattered soul, and Luke embodies everything Anna doesn’t want from life. . Her character is one many of us will relate to. She enjoys her work among the history and books of the library. She doesn’t need more than that. She’s content until Luke comes along and turns her world topsy-turvy. His determination to sweep her off her feet is definitely not a suit that easily goes away. Their relationship has interesting turns because of this. Smoothing things out doesn’t necessarily last for long in this relationship!
To add to the character dynamics is the politics of the late 1800’s and a mystery surrounding a ship. There’s also a lot of dynamics in the backgrounds of the characters. What I liked most was not the romance, but some of the twists the story took. Certain outcomes were not what I’d anticipated and it worked to the benefit of the book.
Beyond All Dreams is any historical fiction addict’s dream. It’s a charming story and doesn’t shy away from packing in historical tidbits without lessening the impact of the story. That’s one of the reasons I adore Elizabeth’s writing. She has the balance down to a science and her years honing her skills as an author show that.
Sincere thanks to Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this review copy.
February 5, 2015
I was immediately pulled into this story by its historical setting and the fact that the main character works as a map librarian. To be surrounded by all those books and architecture! I also loved that the library she works for is the Library of Congress. The descriptions of fashion, culture, and setting, as well as the dialogue was all well done. I felt immersed in the story and could picture the main character, Anna, as well as the other characters and the buildings and such in the story.
Everything really worked for me in this story through Anna's and Luke's struggles, through them trying to figure things out and getting to know each other in the meantime (their chemistry and dialogue was full of wit and sass and I loved it!), and as they find and lose their hearts. Anna was a little obsessed with finding out what really happened to her father, but I felt for her and could understand why she felt as she did. Towards the end there were some road blocks that came up between Luke and Anna that I didn't completely understand or agree with, but in the end it all worked out.
I also loved the secondary characters, especially Anna's best friend and fellow boarder. There was also the other individuals running here and there for Congress, other Congressmen, the head of the library, Anna's aunt, and Luke's family, especially his nephew. Each of these characters added to the story in making it come alive.
Other aspects of the story were enjoyable as well. The inspirational aspect of the story was sweet and not overwhelming. I liked how fierce Luke was in his beliefs. Some phrases were overused, but it was lovely all the same. The romance was great! Sparks flew between Anna and Luke and this was my favorite part of the story besides the historical aspect.
I'd recommend Beyond All Dreams to those who enjoy inspirational historical romance. I'll definitely be reading Camden's other books.
Content: Clean
Source: From the publisher through Litfuse, which did not affect my review in any way.
Everything really worked for me in this story through Anna's and Luke's struggles, through them trying to figure things out and getting to know each other in the meantime (their chemistry and dialogue was full of wit and sass and I loved it!), and as they find and lose their hearts. Anna was a little obsessed with finding out what really happened to her father, but I felt for her and could understand why she felt as she did. Towards the end there were some road blocks that came up between Luke and Anna that I didn't completely understand or agree with, but in the end it all worked out.
I also loved the secondary characters, especially Anna's best friend and fellow boarder. There was also the other individuals running here and there for Congress, other Congressmen, the head of the library, Anna's aunt, and Luke's family, especially his nephew. Each of these characters added to the story in making it come alive.
Other aspects of the story were enjoyable as well. The inspirational aspect of the story was sweet and not overwhelming. I liked how fierce Luke was in his beliefs. Some phrases were overused, but it was lovely all the same. The romance was great! Sparks flew between Anna and Luke and this was my favorite part of the story besides the historical aspect.
I'd recommend Beyond All Dreams to those who enjoy inspirational historical romance. I'll definitely be reading Camden's other books.
Content: Clean
Source: From the publisher through Litfuse, which did not affect my review in any way.
August 18, 2025
Blog Post: https://fictionwithphoebe.com/beyond-...
3.5 stars
A minor inconsistency in an old naval report leads map librarian Anna O’Brien and Congressman Luke Callaghan to uncover a secret that will have far-reaching consequences for them and for the nation.
I enjoyed catching a glimpse of what life was like in 1890s Washington, DC. All the historical details really brought the setting to life.
It was very sweet to watch Anna and Luke bond over a shared love for the written word, despite being opposites.
However, their romance seemed a bit tumultuous. And I had a hard time believing their relationship worked out in the long term. Luke also said and did some things that made it difficult for me to want him and Anna together.
Although certain characters (Lt. Rowland, Mrs. Nordquist, Eliza, Speaker Jones) intentionally came across as annoying or antagonistic, they were still treated as actual people with flaws and feelings rather than just one-dimensional villains.
Favorite Moments
🗺️ writing in his book
🗺️ “Write your book, O’Brien”
🗺️ Luke defending Anna from Lt. Rowland
🗺️ breakfast room
🗺️ wedding
Content Notes:
mention of “naughty pictures,” mention of anatomy books with pictures of naked bodies (no explicit details), mention of cloven hooves and a pitchfork, mention of gambling, mention of alcohol consumption, mention of wife-beaters, an unmarried mother and an illegitimate child, one use of “devilish,” mention of a woman’s “bust” and “bosom,” mention of a “scarlet woman,” noticing and awareness, kissing, touching, mention of “smutty accusations,” some mild innuendo, mention of the marriage bed, mention of a woman’s figure, mention of dashing naked into the ocean (no explicit details), mention of Madame Bovary, mention of swearing and cussing (none specified), mention of lust, mentions of a sea god and a goddess, mention of dancing girls, mentions of Greek mythology, mention of an affair, one use of “make love,” death and execution, mentions of guns and shooting, war
3.5 stars
A minor inconsistency in an old naval report leads map librarian Anna O’Brien and Congressman Luke Callaghan to uncover a secret that will have far-reaching consequences for them and for the nation.
I enjoyed catching a glimpse of what life was like in 1890s Washington, DC. All the historical details really brought the setting to life.
It was very sweet to watch Anna and Luke bond over a shared love for the written word, despite being opposites.
However, their romance seemed a bit tumultuous. And I had a hard time believing their relationship worked out in the long term. Luke also said and did some things that made it difficult for me to want him and Anna together.
Although certain characters (Lt. Rowland, Mrs. Nordquist, Eliza, Speaker Jones) intentionally came across as annoying or antagonistic, they were still treated as actual people with flaws and feelings rather than just one-dimensional villains.
Favorite Moments
🗺️ writing in his book
🗺️ “Write your book, O’Brien”
🗺️ Luke defending Anna from Lt. Rowland
🗺️ breakfast room
🗺️ wedding
Content Notes:
mention of “naughty pictures,” mention of anatomy books with pictures of naked bodies (no explicit details), mention of cloven hooves and a pitchfork, mention of gambling, mention of alcohol consumption, mention of wife-beaters, an unmarried mother and an illegitimate child, one use of “devilish,” mention of a woman’s “bust” and “bosom,” mention of a “scarlet woman,” noticing and awareness, kissing, touching, mention of “smutty accusations,” some mild innuendo, mention of the marriage bed, mention of a woman’s figure, mention of dashing naked into the ocean (no explicit details), mention of Madame Bovary, mention of swearing and cussing (none specified), mention of lust, mentions of a sea god and a goddess, mention of dancing girls, mentions of Greek mythology, mention of an affair, one use of “make love,” death and execution, mentions of guns and shooting, war
January 2, 2021
3.5. didn’t completely dislike it, but it wasn’t an absolute favorite. the biggest thing is that i just felt like it dragged once you reached about 50% into the book. there wasn’t anything glaring other than that. i just have a short attention span so if a book drags i lose my interest. i can see why people enjoy it, and if it interests you, you should read it. it just wasn’t my cup of tea. :)
October 5, 2022
This book is everything that is brilliant about Elizabeth Camden, and why she is one of my favorite authors.
Starting out, I literally hated the hero, and I was really wondering how on earth Elizabeth was going to turn this around and make us love him. But she didn't disappoint! By the end, I was loving the hero and hating the heroine. LOL. She did such a good job with drawing me in, creating characters that were flawed and yet lovable and relatable. I was stuck between both of the characters, cheering for one, then the other, then both.
Another thing I appreciated was that nothing about this book felt cliche to me. Everything was fresh and entertaining.
Five stars. I definitely recommend to anyone who loves historical romance.
Starting out, I literally hated the hero, and I was really wondering how on earth Elizabeth was going to turn this around and make us love him. But she didn't disappoint! By the end, I was loving the hero and hating the heroine. LOL. She did such a good job with drawing me in, creating characters that were flawed and yet lovable and relatable. I was stuck between both of the characters, cheering for one, then the other, then both.
Another thing I appreciated was that nothing about this book felt cliche to me. Everything was fresh and entertaining.
Five stars. I definitely recommend to anyone who loves historical romance.
February 9, 2015
About this book:
“Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a 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 until his promising career became 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.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol 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?”
Series: It is a stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are quoted; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’a are capital when referring to God; Going to church to pray; Luke is a Christian and wants to be a peace-maker.
*Note: mentions of different gods (Zeus, Janus & Neptune).
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘shoddy’, a ‘shut up’, three ‘sissy’s, eight ‘stupid’s, twelve forms of ‘idiot’; Anna used to cuss when she was mad, even though her uncle would clean her mouth out with soap, but one time he poured lye down her throat; Luke’s father was a drunk and used to have a temper (which, sadly, Luke has (but without the alcohol) and shows it. There is also flashbacks and mentions of Luke’s father. Semi-detailed); Luke’s brother and sister both drink; Mentions of prisons (semi-detailed); Mentions of smoking; Mentions of War & going to war; Mentions of executions.
Sexual Content- Not-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss; Embraces; Nearness & Staring; A mention of a women with “a figure that would put an hourglass to shame”; Anna’s mother died in childbirth; Philip was born out of wedlock (and it’s added that Julia had an affair with a married man and that their “bodies had certainly become one”); A mention of 15 year old boys “flipping through anatomy books in the hunt for drawings of naked bodies.”; Girls at the boarding-house use “Bust Food” and the label is read “Designed…to provide the right food for starved skin and wasted tissues of the bust, Unrivaled for developing the flesh of the bosom”; When Luke describes his perfect wife he adds “and wouldn’t be afraid to dash stark naked into ocean with me.”; Mentions of a government worker lady who was let go after being seen kissing another government (male) worker; Mentions that government workers can’t flirt with other government workers; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Anna O’Brien, age 29
-Luke Callahan, age 36
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1897-1898
357 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and half)-ish
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and half)-ish
I’m having a really hard time rating this novel. I really enjoyed the mystery and wittyness but both Anna & Luke pasts are not easy to read (like real life, I know, but I have to point this stuff out). I’ve enjoyed other Elizabeth Camden novel—and I did enjoy this one—but I’m having a mini war inside myself, so to speak, about the rating for OHST and MPR. I knew since Anna worked in a library there would be some great quotes and I found quite a few I liked!
“So long as she had access to enough light to read, Anna could entertain herself for years.”
“Was there anything more inspiring than being able to look up and see oneself surrounded by thousands of books all the way to the ceiling three stories above?”
“You don't believe in writing in books?" "Of course not. Nor do I dog-ear the pages, crack book spines, underline passages, or otherwise mistreat government property.”
“He stayed true to his convictions, despite the overwhelming pressure to capitulate.”
“Beyond All Dreams” was witty and had some deep parts..but I’m having such a hard time with rating this novel!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House Publishers) for this review.
“Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a 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 until his promising career became 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.
From the gilded halls of the Capitol 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?”
Series: It is a stand-alone novel.
Spiritual Content- Scriptures are quoted; Talks about God & forgiving; ‘H’a are capital when referring to God; Going to church to pray; Luke is a Christian and wants to be a peace-maker.
*Note: mentions of different gods (Zeus, Janus & Neptune).
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘shoddy’, a ‘shut up’, three ‘sissy’s, eight ‘stupid’s, twelve forms of ‘idiot’; Anna used to cuss when she was mad, even though her uncle would clean her mouth out with soap, but one time he poured lye down her throat; Luke’s father was a drunk and used to have a temper (which, sadly, Luke has (but without the alcohol) and shows it. There is also flashbacks and mentions of Luke’s father. Semi-detailed); Luke’s brother and sister both drink; Mentions of prisons (semi-detailed); Mentions of smoking; Mentions of War & going to war; Mentions of executions.
Sexual Content- Not-detailed kisses; Wanting to kiss; Embraces; Nearness & Staring; A mention of a women with “a figure that would put an hourglass to shame”; Anna’s mother died in childbirth; Philip was born out of wedlock (and it’s added that Julia had an affair with a married man and that their “bodies had certainly become one”); A mention of 15 year old boys “flipping through anatomy books in the hunt for drawings of naked bodies.”; Girls at the boarding-house use “Bust Food” and the label is read “Designed…to provide the right food for starved skin and wasted tissues of the bust, Unrivaled for developing the flesh of the bosom”; When Luke describes his perfect wife he adds “and wouldn’t be afraid to dash stark naked into ocean with me.”; Mentions of a government worker lady who was let go after being seen kissing another government (male) worker; Mentions that government workers can’t flirt with other government workers; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Anna O’Brien, age 29
-Luke Callahan, age 36
P.O.V. switches between them.
Set in 1897-1898
357 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Star (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars (and half)-ish
My personal Rating- Three Stars (and half)-ish
I’m having a really hard time rating this novel. I really enjoyed the mystery and wittyness but both Anna & Luke pasts are not easy to read (like real life, I know, but I have to point this stuff out). I’ve enjoyed other Elizabeth Camden novel—and I did enjoy this one—but I’m having a mini war inside myself, so to speak, about the rating for OHST and MPR. I knew since Anna worked in a library there would be some great quotes and I found quite a few I liked!
“So long as she had access to enough light to read, Anna could entertain herself for years.”
“Was there anything more inspiring than being able to look up and see oneself surrounded by thousands of books all the way to the ceiling three stories above?”
“You don't believe in writing in books?" "Of course not. Nor do I dog-ear the pages, crack book spines, underline passages, or otherwise mistreat government property.”
“He stayed true to his convictions, despite the overwhelming pressure to capitulate.”
“Beyond All Dreams” was witty and had some deep parts..but I’m having such a hard time with rating this novel!
Link to review:
http://booksforchristiangirls.blogspo...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Bethany House Publishers) for this review.
Read
May 16, 2025Fabulous! Sunday I finished "Beyond All Dreams" and loved every word of it. I don't normally read historical romance, but this wonderful novel's setting is the Library of Congress. It begins in 1985 when the "new" library was being constructed. I learned so much and was completely entertained as I gained new knowledge and insight into the library on Capitol Hill. For all the people who wonders why libraries have not folded as the Internet is at most of our fingertips- well, this story will fill in the blanks. At the heart of the story lies forgiveness, always a great practice.
January 28, 2015
Anna O'Brien loves her job as a map librarian at the Library of Congress. She loves being surrounded by maps and helping patrons with their research requests. When she is asked to sit in on a Congressional committee meeting, she unintentionally captures the attention of Luke Callahan, one of Congress's rising stars. Luke has been "demoted" from the prestigious Budget Committee onto a committee involving Fisheries. But Luke is determined to show that the Speaker of the House is corrupt and asks that Anna be the one librarian who pulls all of his research requests. When Anna stumbles across a discrepancy between a map and the Navy's report regarding the shipwreck her father died in, she ends up enlisting Luke's help. Before long, both of them are involved in something far more than a simple error. Anna's afraid to trust her heart and Luke's in danger of loosing his. Will these two manage to figure out what the future holds for them?
One of the things that I've discovered I love about Elizabeth Camden's books is the rich historical detail. Last year's With Every Breath wowed me to no end. And then I spied the cover of this one. I love the spiral stair case and added it to my to read list. When this one came up for review, I snatched it up. I couldn't wait to delve back into a novel rich in history.
Yes it is rich in history. But what I found was that it was a little more slow moving than I was accustomed to. I wasn't sure how I initially felt about either of the main characters. My first impression was probably that Anna seemed a little stiff and schoolmarm-y while Luke was a conceited jerk. Yet what changed my impression of Anna was when she put Luke in his place at their first meeting. And I admire that. I also enjoyed the fact that Luke had to pursue her. He had to get to know her. He had to make it a point to figure her out because she didn't fall for his charms initially.
I've also enjoyed the fact that this story wasn't built entirely on their romance. Each of the main characters had busy lives and it showed. I mean, Luke was a Congressman and involved in several different bills while at the same time being a parent to his nephew. And for Luke to decide that Anna was important to him meant that he had to make time in his busy schedule for her.
Still, I enjoyed the book. I keep being told I need to read Camden's Against the Tide and maybe one day soon I'll be able to get to that one. I enjoyed the look into the Library of Congress in the late 1800's as well as what Congress was like then too.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz
Rating - 4 stars
One of the things that I've discovered I love about Elizabeth Camden's books is the rich historical detail. Last year's With Every Breath wowed me to no end. And then I spied the cover of this one. I love the spiral stair case and added it to my to read list. When this one came up for review, I snatched it up. I couldn't wait to delve back into a novel rich in history.
Yes it is rich in history. But what I found was that it was a little more slow moving than I was accustomed to. I wasn't sure how I initially felt about either of the main characters. My first impression was probably that Anna seemed a little stiff and schoolmarm-y while Luke was a conceited jerk. Yet what changed my impression of Anna was when she put Luke in his place at their first meeting. And I admire that. I also enjoyed the fact that Luke had to pursue her. He had to get to know her. He had to make it a point to figure her out because she didn't fall for his charms initially.
I've also enjoyed the fact that this story wasn't built entirely on their romance. Each of the main characters had busy lives and it showed. I mean, Luke was a Congressman and involved in several different bills while at the same time being a parent to his nephew. And for Luke to decide that Anna was important to him meant that he had to make time in his busy schedule for her.
Still, I enjoyed the book. I keep being told I need to read Camden's Against the Tide and maybe one day soon I'll be able to get to that one. I enjoyed the look into the Library of Congress in the late 1800's as well as what Congress was like then too.
I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Elizabeth Camden, Jody Hedlund, Laura Frantz
Rating - 4 stars
February 21, 2017
A girl working for the Library of Congress, a guy apart of congress, and rule forbidding romantic 'entanglement' between the two. What could be more exciting than that? Well, a lot of things. Yes, that is true but who cares about that right now. I am talking about this book, not 'other things.'
Anyway, I absolutely loved Luke. He was just so awesome. Anna was super cool, too! Well, she has to be cool; she works at a library--the Library of Congress to be exact. That is like...a dream job for any book lover.
Elizabeth Camden definitely wrote a must-read for anyone who is like me and likes romance and mystery/adventure/danger put together.
This cover is so well done. I love the stairs. To be honest, most pictures with those kind of stairs are cool. They look so old fashion and modern at the same time. And, I loved, loved, loved the Capitol building in the background through the window.
As for the writing behind the front cover, that was wonderful as well! This book deserves four stars! I can't say that it is my favorite Elizabeth Camden because Against the Tide (aka Bane) wins in that contest...but, it was still wonderfully done!
Title: Beyond All Dreams
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Author's Website: http://elizabethcamden.com/
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
Anyway, I absolutely loved Luke. He was just so awesome. Anna was super cool, too! Well, she has to be cool; she works at a library--the Library of Congress to be exact. That is like...a dream job for any book lover.
Elizabeth Camden definitely wrote a must-read for anyone who is like me and likes romance and mystery/adventure/danger put together.
This cover is so well done. I love the stairs. To be honest, most pictures with those kind of stairs are cool. They look so old fashion and modern at the same time. And, I loved, loved, loved the Capitol building in the background through the window.
As for the writing behind the front cover, that was wonderful as well! This book deserves four stars! I can't say that it is my favorite Elizabeth Camden because Against the Tide (aka Bane) wins in that contest...but, it was still wonderfully done!
Title: Beyond All Dreams
Author: Elizabeth Camden
Author's Website: http://elizabethcamden.com/
This review is written in my own opinions and words.
January 12, 2015
Someone once told me "you can't go wrong with a book involving libraries", and, along with having said the same myself about books involving ships with mystery surrounding them, I couldn't agree more.
Elizabeth Camden captures the bustle and development of the library of congress (and congress itself) in an intriguing and detailed way.
Beyond all Dreams is a well balanced waltz where history partners the importance of family over career, all-conquering and selfless love, and -ultimately- forgiveness.
Camden has a beautiful way with words and of describing things in such a way that gives you a clear picture of what she was hoping to make you see. For instance: someone can't smell like a thousand summer days filled laughter; and yet, we all seem to get the idea and to enjoy how it sounds, so...maybe they can. ;)
The seemingly small cast of characters is intricate and well structured. Inevitable imperfections keep them personable and relatable.
A swift-paced story line takes you up and down, here, there and everywhere in a whirlwind of progress and activity- finally setting you back on your feet and giving you time to soak in what you just experienced and appreciate the masterpiece. You don't want to miss out!
Elizabeth Camden captures the bustle and development of the library of congress (and congress itself) in an intriguing and detailed way.
Beyond all Dreams is a well balanced waltz where history partners the importance of family over career, all-conquering and selfless love, and -ultimately- forgiveness.
Camden has a beautiful way with words and of describing things in such a way that gives you a clear picture of what she was hoping to make you see. For instance: someone can't smell like a thousand summer days filled laughter; and yet, we all seem to get the idea and to enjoy how it sounds, so...maybe they can. ;)
The seemingly small cast of characters is intricate and well structured. Inevitable imperfections keep them personable and relatable.
A swift-paced story line takes you up and down, here, there and everywhere in a whirlwind of progress and activity- finally setting you back on your feet and giving you time to soak in what you just experienced and appreciate the masterpiece. You don't want to miss out!
May 7, 2018
I honestly couldn't like it as much as I wanted to. Beautiful setting and writing, but not a great read, overall.
I have a full review in my blog: https://abookandateacup.blogspot.com....
I have a full review in my blog: https://abookandateacup.blogspot.com....
February 19, 2022
Beyond All Dreams is one of those hidden gems that's been sitting on my TBR shelf for years and I just finally picked up and started reading…and I loved the story!
The main character, Anna, was such a unique woman. I felt terrible for her when I learned how she suffered the damage that caused her voice change, but I thought she was a strong person to be able to forgive.
Luke was a good hero and I thought he grew a lot in the book. I liked how he was different than Anna, but seemingly the perfect match.
All in all, Beyond All Dreams was an amazing read. I loved the time setting and all the history in the story. Definitely recommend!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
The main character, Anna, was such a unique woman. I felt terrible for her when I learned how she suffered the damage that caused her voice change, but I thought she was a strong person to be able to forgive.
Luke was a good hero and I thought he grew a lot in the book. I liked how he was different than Anna, but seemingly the perfect match.
All in all, Beyond All Dreams was an amazing read. I loved the time setting and all the history in the story. Definitely recommend!
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*
June 8, 2016
Rating: 3.5/5
I think this was the first time I've read a book tagged as Christian fiction. There was active discussion about Jesus and Bible quotes, and the lessons they provide in words and action for Christians (and people in general, I suppose) to be good and live good lives. I didn't mind it, in fact, it worked well adding depth to the characters as religion plays a significant part in defining an individual. If you don't read the book as a Christian book (which was what I did), then you really appreciate the author working with characters with solid religious beliefs. It's a nice addition that is not seen much in mainstream HR mystery novels.
Speaking of characters, I really enjoyed the hero and heroine: Luke and Anna. On first glance, Luke appeared as a rogue: all brash confidence, easy smiles and mischievous eyes, with a 'my way or the highway' attitude. In contrast, Anna is a mousy librarian: prim and proper with a great passion (obsession) for preservation, accuracy and appreciation of maps. As you get to know them further, you realize that this contrast goes deep, down to everyday things.
But what makes these characters, their interactions with each other, and their romance absolutely lovely is that they share a common core of belief and values. This is facilitated by their common religious belief, but also because they both had turbulent pasts and they recognize and see the weight of those emotions in each other, which helps in bringing them together. Of course, their common love for literature is an added bonus. I loved the way their romance progressed. Theirs is not a showy, over-the-top passionate affair as both are much too old and prudish for that and I greatly enjoyed how they went through some trial and error before finally getting their HEA.
Setting aside the romance, the mystery of the supposedly sunken Culpeper and its crew, which included Anna's father and it's connection to the larger plot of Luke's political quest in resolving international concerns through peaceful means was very interesting. However, I also had one major complaint about the plot which brought down the book's overall rating. The review from here on out will contain spoilers.
It was found out that the Culpeper, upon which Anna's father was aboard was smuggling guns to Cuban rebels, quietly aiding in the fight against Spain. They were caught in the act and most of the crew was executed immediately. When Anna found out about this, her shock to it was understandable. What I had a problem with was how Anna felt that Spain had no right to kill Americans that way, with no regard to the fact that these Americans were helping kill hundreds others. I understand and agree that it was the wrong course of action taken by the Spanish official, that the Culpeper crew should have been made prisoners as a result of aiding Spain's enemy, but really, to act like the navy soldiers didn't know the risks or that they were completely innocent is a little too much and the indignant reaction Anna showed was something I only partially sympathized with. Because as soon as I thought of the dead Culpeper crew my mind also considered the hundreds of people who would further die by the ammunition these men have brought. This was further compounded by the fact that the US Congress insisted they wanted peace with Spain. I don't understand. If the States didn't want a war with Spain then why provide Cuban rebels with ammunition? Were they hoping that Cuba would be able to officially defeat Spain on its own? You see the duplicity here? And the characters took it all in stride, with the sense that whatever actions their government/armed forces did, legal or illegal, were correct and anyone retaliating against it is wrong. Am I missing something here?
The event is based on real life so I can't truly fault the author for it. But I can disagree with the opinion/reaction of the characters she has created.
Overall though, Beyond all Dreams was not exactly what I was expecting which was both a good and bad thing because, while I enjoyed all the plots and subplots, it was a bit dull and boring as well, which was disappointing.
I think this was the first time I've read a book tagged as Christian fiction. There was active discussion about Jesus and Bible quotes, and the lessons they provide in words and action for Christians (and people in general, I suppose) to be good and live good lives. I didn't mind it, in fact, it worked well adding depth to the characters as religion plays a significant part in defining an individual. If you don't read the book as a Christian book (which was what I did), then you really appreciate the author working with characters with solid religious beliefs. It's a nice addition that is not seen much in mainstream HR mystery novels.
Speaking of characters, I really enjoyed the hero and heroine: Luke and Anna. On first glance, Luke appeared as a rogue: all brash confidence, easy smiles and mischievous eyes, with a 'my way or the highway' attitude. In contrast, Anna is a mousy librarian: prim and proper with a great passion (obsession) for preservation, accuracy and appreciation of maps. As you get to know them further, you realize that this contrast goes deep, down to everyday things.
But what makes these characters, their interactions with each other, and their romance absolutely lovely is that they share a common core of belief and values. This is facilitated by their common religious belief, but also because they both had turbulent pasts and they recognize and see the weight of those emotions in each other, which helps in bringing them together. Of course, their common love for literature is an added bonus. I loved the way their romance progressed. Theirs is not a showy, over-the-top passionate affair as both are much too old and prudish for that and I greatly enjoyed how they went through some trial and error before finally getting their HEA.
Setting aside the romance, the mystery of the supposedly sunken Culpeper and its crew, which included Anna's father and it's connection to the larger plot of Luke's political quest in resolving international concerns through peaceful means was very interesting. However, I also had one major complaint about the plot which brought down the book's overall rating. The review from here on out will contain spoilers.
It was found out that the Culpeper, upon which Anna's father was aboard was smuggling guns to Cuban rebels, quietly aiding in the fight against Spain. They were caught in the act and most of the crew was executed immediately. When Anna found out about this, her shock to it was understandable. What I had a problem with was how Anna felt that Spain had no right to kill Americans that way, with no regard to the fact that these Americans were helping kill hundreds others. I understand and agree that it was the wrong course of action taken by the Spanish official, that the Culpeper crew should have been made prisoners as a result of aiding Spain's enemy, but really, to act like the navy soldiers didn't know the risks or that they were completely innocent is a little too much and the indignant reaction Anna showed was something I only partially sympathized with. Because as soon as I thought of the dead Culpeper crew my mind also considered the hundreds of people who would further die by the ammunition these men have brought. This was further compounded by the fact that the US Congress insisted they wanted peace with Spain. I don't understand. If the States didn't want a war with Spain then why provide Cuban rebels with ammunition? Were they hoping that Cuba would be able to officially defeat Spain on its own? You see the duplicity here? And the characters took it all in stride, with the sense that whatever actions their government/armed forces did, legal or illegal, were correct and anyone retaliating against it is wrong. Am I missing something here?
The event is based on real life so I can't truly fault the author for it. But I can disagree with the opinion/reaction of the characters she has created.
Overall though, Beyond all Dreams was not exactly what I was expecting which was both a good and bad thing because, while I enjoyed all the plots and subplots, it was a bit dull and boring as well, which was disappointing.
December 16, 2025
I never do any ratings that aren't full stars, but this time we're going with 3.75 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫 I had some feelings 🤣 that kept it from being a 4 star!
This one was read at a very slow pace with my book club members 💙, and those books are always consumed deeper because we have time to soak in all of the nuances. So I've had a lot of time to analyze. 🤓
I adored the backdrop of the Library of Congress and the Capitol buildings in 1897. Fascinating! The knowledge, the descriptions of the dark academia style that I love so much. Awesome sauce. Anna O'Brien had the coolest job in my opinion and I soaked up all the book adoration, paper organization, and beauty she was surrounded by. My favorite thing - a book about books! 📚
I also related to her as a quieter, shy person. She'd been done so wrong by many people including some child abuse and I loved her spiritual outlook of forgiveness.
The real excitement begins right away as she is summoned by a Naval Lieutenant and reprimanded by him to back off about the errors she found in an old Naval ship report. ekkk But her Dad went missing on that ship and it's personal.
Why does the Navy want her to keep quiet? The mystery began.
Wonderful.
Then we meet Luke. 😑 It's so much deeper than him being a confident jerk. He wanted to badly to change some things. He had some major battles on the inside (also abused early on - that scene was hard to read 😞 ) that he was dealing with.
I don't want to spoil anything but I'll just say that Luke deserved grace and forgiveness for sure, but I never became a Luke fan (b/c he was a manipulator ongoing) And that bothered me, I guess.
I really like Camden's writing. She has such a wonderfully descriptive way with words. I was there in every scene with the characters. This scene is a great example of her fabulous descriptions:
House Speaker Cornelius Jones was holding court just a few yards away, sitting like a king at the largest table in the room, surrounded by a haze of cigarette smoke. With thinning gray hair and a bloodless complexion, Speaker Jones always reminded Luke of a shriveled old scarecrow. Luke noted the other men sitting at the table, those gathering around to curry Jones’s favor today.
Great quotes. I learned a lot.
This one was read at a very slow pace with my book club members 💙, and those books are always consumed deeper because we have time to soak in all of the nuances. So I've had a lot of time to analyze. 🤓
I adored the backdrop of the Library of Congress and the Capitol buildings in 1897. Fascinating! The knowledge, the descriptions of the dark academia style that I love so much. Awesome sauce. Anna O'Brien had the coolest job in my opinion and I soaked up all the book adoration, paper organization, and beauty she was surrounded by. My favorite thing - a book about books! 📚
I also related to her as a quieter, shy person. She'd been done so wrong by many people including some child abuse and I loved her spiritual outlook of forgiveness.
The real excitement begins right away as she is summoned by a Naval Lieutenant and reprimanded by him to back off about the errors she found in an old Naval ship report. ekkk But her Dad went missing on that ship and it's personal.
Why does the Navy want her to keep quiet? The mystery began.
Wonderful.
Then we meet Luke. 😑 It's so much deeper than him being a confident jerk. He wanted to badly to change some things. He had some major battles on the inside (also abused early on - that scene was hard to read 😞 ) that he was dealing with.
I don't want to spoil anything but I'll just say that Luke deserved grace and forgiveness for sure, but I never became a Luke fan (b/c he was a manipulator ongoing) And that bothered me, I guess.
I really like Camden's writing. She has such a wonderfully descriptive way with words. I was there in every scene with the characters. This scene is a great example of her fabulous descriptions:
House Speaker Cornelius Jones was holding court just a few yards away, sitting like a king at the largest table in the room, surrounded by a haze of cigarette smoke. With thinning gray hair and a bloodless complexion, Speaker Jones always reminded Luke of a shriveled old scarecrow. Luke noted the other men sitting at the table, those gathering around to curry Jones’s favor today.
Great quotes. I learned a lot.
February 6, 2015
I always hate giving books a bad review, but I'm afraid on this book, I must. I tried very hard to like this story, but the character of Luke Callahan was so grating to me, I just couldn't enjoy the book.
The book is set during the late 1800's and Anna O'Brien is a librarian in the Library of Congress. Her job includes helping the congressmen with maps and research. She loves her job, as I can well understand, as it sounds like a wonderful job to me. She is also preparing the library to be moved into it's new, beautiful building, which keeps her busy.
Anna's father was killed when his ship, The Culpepper, sank. There is an official report regarding this, but Anna feels certain that there's something more to the sinking and she is determined to find out what. This opens a dangerous situation for her that is very intriguing.
Luke Callahan is a senator with a bad temper to those in his private life, including Anna. As a senator, though, he has more liberal, conciliatory attitude with other countries and situations. He also has voted against the new library every time the bill came up, yet he uses and enjoys the library himself on a daily basis. I found these attitudes and personality traits of his extremely irritating. I thought perhaps as the book went along, he would grow and mature, but not really. I disliked him so much, he ruined the book for me.
What I did enjoy was Anna and the historical information of the era and the history of the Library of Congress. I found Anna's character to be very likable and I really liked her tenacity and her loyalty.
For it's historical storyline and the character of Anna, I give his book 2 out of 5 stars. I had a hard time getting through this book and really didn't enjoy it much.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
The book is set during the late 1800's and Anna O'Brien is a librarian in the Library of Congress. Her job includes helping the congressmen with maps and research. She loves her job, as I can well understand, as it sounds like a wonderful job to me. She is also preparing the library to be moved into it's new, beautiful building, which keeps her busy.
Anna's father was killed when his ship, The Culpepper, sank. There is an official report regarding this, but Anna feels certain that there's something more to the sinking and she is determined to find out what. This opens a dangerous situation for her that is very intriguing.
Luke Callahan is a senator with a bad temper to those in his private life, including Anna. As a senator, though, he has more liberal, conciliatory attitude with other countries and situations. He also has voted against the new library every time the bill came up, yet he uses and enjoys the library himself on a daily basis. I found these attitudes and personality traits of his extremely irritating. I thought perhaps as the book went along, he would grow and mature, but not really. I disliked him so much, he ruined the book for me.
What I did enjoy was Anna and the historical information of the era and the history of the Library of Congress. I found Anna's character to be very likable and I really liked her tenacity and her loyalty.
For it's historical storyline and the character of Anna, I give his book 2 out of 5 stars. I had a hard time getting through this book and really didn't enjoy it much.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by LitFuse Publicity Group
January 23, 2015
I'm always eagerly anticipating a new novel from Elizabeth Camden and I wasn't disappointed at all with this book!
Beyond All Dreams is just my kinda book because I'm a very big advocate for believing in dreams and aspirations. Dreams in my opinion can be a driving force in a person's life even though it may look hopeless in the beginning. Trust me, it'll all be worth it in the end. I think that Elizabeth Camden did a great job of portraying just that in her book.
The heroine, Anna O'Brien, has a very interesting and intriguing story. In the story, Anna is a librarian in for the Library of Congress which is by the way could be a dream job for any book lover out there! Who wouldn't want to discover the wonders of the"King" of Libraries? I really liked Anna O'Brien's character.
The hero, was another one of Elizabeth Camden's smashing heroes! She is so talented at making her heroes some of the best heroes in Christian fiction, in my opinion, at least. Scarred by many things that happened in his early life, readers can sympathize and enjoy reading about Luke as his life unfolds in the story. Just take my word for it the hero is absolutely romantic! *sigh*
I think that the story came together very well as a whole. I was entranced by this novel from the beginning to the very end. There's nothing that I would change about this story but I would love to read more of Anna and Luke's story. It was perfect.
The book cover was also another beautiful work of art!
I highly recommend this book! It's another beautiful tale by Elizabeth Camden with all the combinations of adventure,humor,and romance any book lover will certainly enjoy! (5 stars)
Happy Reading Y'all!! :)
Beyond All Dreams is just my kinda book because I'm a very big advocate for believing in dreams and aspirations. Dreams in my opinion can be a driving force in a person's life even though it may look hopeless in the beginning. Trust me, it'll all be worth it in the end. I think that Elizabeth Camden did a great job of portraying just that in her book.
The heroine, Anna O'Brien, has a very interesting and intriguing story. In the story, Anna is a librarian in for the Library of Congress which is by the way could be a dream job for any book lover out there! Who wouldn't want to discover the wonders of the"King" of Libraries? I really liked Anna O'Brien's character.
The hero, was another one of Elizabeth Camden's smashing heroes! She is so talented at making her heroes some of the best heroes in Christian fiction, in my opinion, at least. Scarred by many things that happened in his early life, readers can sympathize and enjoy reading about Luke as his life unfolds in the story. Just take my word for it the hero is absolutely romantic! *sigh*
I think that the story came together very well as a whole. I was entranced by this novel from the beginning to the very end. There's nothing that I would change about this story but I would love to read more of Anna and Luke's story. It was perfect.
The book cover was also another beautiful work of art!
I highly recommend this book! It's another beautiful tale by Elizabeth Camden with all the combinations of adventure,humor,and romance any book lover will certainly enjoy! (5 stars)
Happy Reading Y'all!! :)
July 12, 2018
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!
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!
January 1, 2015
Elizabeth Camden became a go-to author for me with her book With Every Breath. This book is even better!
This historical novel set in Washington, D.C., has romance, mystery, and a story I couldn't leave. The characters are so real, the conflict separating them so vast that I literally wondered how they could end up together --even as I wanted it for them. And I love this -- she taught me something about American history that I didn't know in a way that made it enjoyable. This novel is perfect for every historical reader who enjoys Gilded Age, more than a romance, yet a romance that is sigh-worthy.
I can't wait for her next book!
This historical novel set in Washington, D.C., has romance, mystery, and a story I couldn't leave. The characters are so real, the conflict separating them so vast that I literally wondered how they could end up together --even as I wanted it for them. And I love this -- she taught me something about American history that I didn't know in a way that made it enjoyable. This novel is perfect for every historical reader who enjoys Gilded Age, more than a romance, yet a romance that is sigh-worthy.
I can't wait for her next book!
January 27, 2018
Beautiful novel, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story from the first page all the way until the very last. Elizabeth Camden wrote a truly wonderful novel, full of mystery and intrigue to keep you on your toes from page to page.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a woman in the early 1900s? Well if you have, "Beyond All Dreams" would be the novel for you. A mysterious death, an incorrect map filed with Congress, and a little bit of love to even the rest of it out! What could go wrong?
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a woman in the early 1900s? Well if you have, "Beyond All Dreams" would be the novel for you. A mysterious death, an incorrect map filed with Congress, and a little bit of love to even the rest of it out! What could go wrong?
January 28, 2015
Great all the way to the end--kept pulling me back with just the right mix of mystery, romance, character development and history woven together. Enjoyed it more than the last one, With Every Breath, which was good too; there's a similar feel to it in the setting. Would have liked a little more in the area of faith, but overall a very good story. Recommend for historical Christian fiction readers!
June 9, 2022
I couldn’t get out of the third chapter.
I had hoped the book would get better from this opening line: “I’m begging you, please stop looking at naughty pictures in the library” as well as that event being equated to being “a rowdy fifteen-year-old boy.” I don’t find pornography to be any type of definition of “rowdy” or of a teenager. In fact, I find it quite sinful, and I’m unsure why it was included in a Christian book and tossed off as a “rowdy” teenager problem. Instead, this issue is a serious problem.
Sadly, the book did not improve within the first three chapters.
In fact, it got worse.
There were two blasphemies in the first three chapters. This, of course, was a humongous disappointment in a Christian fiction book.
First: “Luke found salvation in the passages of Byron, Keats, and Coleridge.”
True salvation is found only in one name: Jesus Christ.
“Jesus Christ the Nazarene … There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to people, and we must be saved by it.” Acts 4:10-12 HCSB
Second: “Oh noble sun, cleanse my sorrows with the sweet kiss of morning dew.”
Only God Almighty can cleanse sorrows through the blood of Jesus Christ.
“… the blood of Jesus [God’s] Son cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 HCSB
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 HCSB
The leading man was a bully, demanding people just fall all over themselves to do his bidding. I’ve been told this attitude improves, but I didn’t see any signs of it in the early chapters. I’m hoping he did learn that people were worth treating with at least the minimum respect due every fellow human being.
Beyond that, there was parental bullying on at least two occasions. The first was to excess, while the second was a passing comment.
The leading man’s father bullied him because he wrote poetry. He went on and on for pages about this bullying, coming to this ridiculous finale: “Why don't you ask your mother to sew you a dress if you want to write poetry like a girl."
The story takes place in 1897, so it made sense to me that the kid would be inspired by and following in the footsteps of such poetry greats as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Walt Whitman, and Henry David Thoreau (not to mention “Byron, Keats, and Coleridge” who were mentioned directly during one of these bullying scenes)—all of whom are men. Maybe the dude’s dad ought to read a book every now and then.
The other parental bullying was: “Gertrude’s parents warned her that girls who looked like a russet potato shouldn’t aspire to marriage and encouraged her love of music as a means of earning a living.”
The year, as I mentioned, was 1897. Average-looking women got married all the time then, as they do now, so I do not understand this mindset for her parents. It was impossible for me to fathom that a parent would call their child a “russet potato” and tell her she’s not worthy of finding a husband and raising children. That is her God-given right, if she so chose to accept it, as mentioned many times throughout the Bible, which has been a known Book since ancient times.
I truly hope the characters learned to be better and overcame such terrible past behavior, but I couldn’t continue reading to find out.
My favorite part of this book, through the third chapter, was that a library was so heavily featured. Typically, that is a favorite setting in fictional stories for me, so I fully expected to like this book. Unfortunately, it’s another book I couldn’t finish.
Content: parental bullying of children, pornographic pictures mentioned and tossed off as rowdiness, blasphemies
I had hoped the book would get better from this opening line: “I’m begging you, please stop looking at naughty pictures in the library” as well as that event being equated to being “a rowdy fifteen-year-old boy.” I don’t find pornography to be any type of definition of “rowdy” or of a teenager. In fact, I find it quite sinful, and I’m unsure why it was included in a Christian book and tossed off as a “rowdy” teenager problem. Instead, this issue is a serious problem.
Sadly, the book did not improve within the first three chapters.
In fact, it got worse.
There were two blasphemies in the first three chapters. This, of course, was a humongous disappointment in a Christian fiction book.
First: “Luke found salvation in the passages of Byron, Keats, and Coleridge.”
True salvation is found only in one name: Jesus Christ.
“Jesus Christ the Nazarene … There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to people, and we must be saved by it.” Acts 4:10-12 HCSB
Second: “Oh noble sun, cleanse my sorrows with the sweet kiss of morning dew.”
Only God Almighty can cleanse sorrows through the blood of Jesus Christ.
“… the blood of Jesus [God’s] Son cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7 HCSB
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 HCSB
The leading man was a bully, demanding people just fall all over themselves to do his bidding. I’ve been told this attitude improves, but I didn’t see any signs of it in the early chapters. I’m hoping he did learn that people were worth treating with at least the minimum respect due every fellow human being.
Beyond that, there was parental bullying on at least two occasions. The first was to excess, while the second was a passing comment.
The leading man’s father bullied him because he wrote poetry. He went on and on for pages about this bullying, coming to this ridiculous finale: “Why don't you ask your mother to sew you a dress if you want to write poetry like a girl."
The story takes place in 1897, so it made sense to me that the kid would be inspired by and following in the footsteps of such poetry greats as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Walt Whitman, and Henry David Thoreau (not to mention “Byron, Keats, and Coleridge” who were mentioned directly during one of these bullying scenes)—all of whom are men. Maybe the dude’s dad ought to read a book every now and then.
The other parental bullying was: “Gertrude’s parents warned her that girls who looked like a russet potato shouldn’t aspire to marriage and encouraged her love of music as a means of earning a living.”
The year, as I mentioned, was 1897. Average-looking women got married all the time then, as they do now, so I do not understand this mindset for her parents. It was impossible for me to fathom that a parent would call their child a “russet potato” and tell her she’s not worthy of finding a husband and raising children. That is her God-given right, if she so chose to accept it, as mentioned many times throughout the Bible, which has been a known Book since ancient times.
I truly hope the characters learned to be better and overcame such terrible past behavior, but I couldn’t continue reading to find out.
My favorite part of this book, through the third chapter, was that a library was so heavily featured. Typically, that is a favorite setting in fictional stories for me, so I fully expected to like this book. Unfortunately, it’s another book I couldn’t finish.
Content: parental bullying of children, pornographic pictures mentioned and tossed off as rowdiness, blasphemies
May 18, 2018
I am indebted to two of my Goodreads friends who encouraged me to sample Elizabeth Camden’s books. Synoptic discussions of the story told in this book are abundant so I need not add additional verbiage here. Let me say that I believe Elizabeth Camden to be an author of far greater skill than the norm for authors of five-star books. Her prose is impeccable, her characterization is masterful, and her blending of fact and fiction is so skillful that a casual reader might need to do some research to discover which is which. One thing that stood out to me was that I frequently found myself looking up words in my dictionary. I love it when an author challenges me. I am in awe of Ms. Camden’s depth and breadth of knowledge in many unexpected fields. I came away from this experience with a greater appreciation for the events of this time and the challenges faced by those who experienced them.
March 31, 2023
Loved the setting at the Library of Congress! Learned a lot of historical facts. Well developed characters that I was rooting for.
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