What do you think?
Rate this book
California Dreaming #2
Sins of the Father
After the death of her father, Sherlyn discovers hidden truths about him that she could have never suspected. When her mother tragically dies as well, it is like her whole world has fallen apart.
When the smoke faded and life started to settle again, Stephen's parents make the decision to move him back to California. With the threat eliminated he was now free.
But what is the definition of freedom...
One girl struggling to find her way..... A boy trying to control his demons from the past.
Can a shy girl curb the controlling nature of the boy she loves....
Will either of them survive the sins of the father.....
When the smoke faded and life started to settle again, Stephen's parents make the decision to move him back to California. With the threat eliminated he was now free.
But what is the definition of freedom...
One girl struggling to find her way..... A boy trying to control his demons from the past.
Can a shy girl curb the controlling nature of the boy she loves....
Will either of them survive the sins of the father.....
ebook
3 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Johnston
14 books418 followersWhat to tell you about myself??
When I sat down to set about the challenge of what I could say, I found that I didn’t really consider myself to be very interesting at all.
I’ve lived in Western Australia my whole life, only ever leaving the country once. Right now though I reside in a southern suburb close to the beach.
Above everything else I’m a wife and a mother. I’ve been married to a man I believe to be my soul mate for the past nine years. When he came into my life I already had two gorgeous kids, a boy and girl, who he took on as his own without any consideration as to how it would affect his life. During our time together, he has also blessed me with two more gorgeous little girls. My real life also has me working fulltime as an Office Manager for an Audio Visual Company.
I grew up in a home with three aunties, two uncles, my younger brother, my father, and my grandparents!! Wow that was more of mouthful than I expected! As you can imagine life in a large family like that was never boring .
As a child I loved creating stories in my head, it was my escape, a place I could go and hide from the world. As I became older, my stories evolved and every time life challenged me, I slipped back into my imaginary world and hid. This didn’t change as I entered adulthood.
I have always been the kind of person who never made things easy for herself, and I spent many years drifting from family member to family member looking for direction. It wasn’t until I was twenty-one when I met a man who would become, what I thought - my future. Over the next twelve years he was my life, well him, and the two children he blessed me with.
We lost that loving husband, and father to a heart attack when our children were very young, and life as you can imagine became a little rough for a while.
Over the years my stories have given me the sanity to get through many tragic situations. They’ve given me a world to escape into, one where I can be anything I want.
These stories I’ve created over the years, have always been a coping mechanism that worked for me, and I’ve always wanted to share them.
With the support of my family I have ventured out there, and finally put them down on paper. I hope you love them as much as I do.
When I sat down to set about the challenge of what I could say, I found that I didn’t really consider myself to be very interesting at all.
I’ve lived in Western Australia my whole life, only ever leaving the country once. Right now though I reside in a southern suburb close to the beach.
Above everything else I’m a wife and a mother. I’ve been married to a man I believe to be my soul mate for the past nine years. When he came into my life I already had two gorgeous kids, a boy and girl, who he took on as his own without any consideration as to how it would affect his life. During our time together, he has also blessed me with two more gorgeous little girls. My real life also has me working fulltime as an Office Manager for an Audio Visual Company.
I grew up in a home with three aunties, two uncles, my younger brother, my father, and my grandparents!! Wow that was more of mouthful than I expected! As you can imagine life in a large family like that was never boring .
As a child I loved creating stories in my head, it was my escape, a place I could go and hide from the world. As I became older, my stories evolved and every time life challenged me, I slipped back into my imaginary world and hid. This didn’t change as I entered adulthood.
I have always been the kind of person who never made things easy for herself, and I spent many years drifting from family member to family member looking for direction. It wasn’t until I was twenty-one when I met a man who would become, what I thought - my future. Over the next twelve years he was my life, well him, and the two children he blessed me with.
We lost that loving husband, and father to a heart attack when our children were very young, and life as you can imagine became a little rough for a while.
Over the years my stories have given me the sanity to get through many tragic situations. They’ve given me a world to escape into, one where I can be anything I want.
These stories I’ve created over the years, have always been a coping mechanism that worked for me, and I’ve always wanted to share them.
With the support of my family I have ventured out there, and finally put them down on paper. I hope you love them as much as I do.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 6, 2017
*** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. ***
2.5 - 3 stars.
Review to come.
2.5 - 3 stars.
Review to come.
January 8, 2017
Wow what a heartbreaking story.
I was warned this book was a ugly cry and it didn't fail to deliver.
Sheryln life came crashing down around her in a matter of days when she discovers the truth about her family.
When she is left orphaned she moves in with her BFF and her family.
Stephen has loved Sheryln from afar for over a year but fights his desires because he believes she deserves better.
Will they get their HEA or will their time be cut short by the sins of her father
I was warned this book was a ugly cry and it didn't fail to deliver.
Sheryln life came crashing down around her in a matter of days when she discovers the truth about her family.
When she is left orphaned she moves in with her BFF and her family.
Stephen has loved Sheryln from afar for over a year but fights his desires because he believes she deserves better.
Will they get their HEA or will their time be cut short by the sins of her father
June 11, 2017
This is the second book in the California Dreaming series by Stacey Johnston. And, let me tell you.. Holy smokes!! That ending! Way to shatter a soul. Speechless!
Sherlyn childhood has been anything but ideal. A mother who treats her as a faithful servant. A father that is epitome of evil walking. The one thing Sherlyn has is a family within Sophie’s family. But, the Sins of her Father will come back for her.
All Stephen wanted for years was to get back to a normal life in Laguna Beach, until that day came. The thought of leaving Sherlyn was crushing. Stephen would learn that getting over and away from Sherlyn was going to be impossible… But, it may be it only choice.
Wow. This book, I wasn’t really sure where to start with this review. I damn sure didn’t want to leave anything important out, but when I started writing I realized there is no possible way to write a review and give you everything without spoilers, and I loathe a spoiler. To sum things up simple. Sweet. Sexy. Nail biting. Throw your kindle across the room. Gut wrenching. On the edge of your seat. Book hang over hell. Awesomeness!
Stacey Johnston worked her magic once again, so good. The ending, I know I already said it, but I say it again, WTF! It’s completely unexpected and left me ready to devour After the Dust Settles (book #3). Well done, Stacey.
Sherlyn childhood has been anything but ideal. A mother who treats her as a faithful servant. A father that is epitome of evil walking. The one thing Sherlyn has is a family within Sophie’s family. But, the Sins of her Father will come back for her.
All Stephen wanted for years was to get back to a normal life in Laguna Beach, until that day came. The thought of leaving Sherlyn was crushing. Stephen would learn that getting over and away from Sherlyn was going to be impossible… But, it may be it only choice.
Wow. This book, I wasn’t really sure where to start with this review. I damn sure didn’t want to leave anything important out, but when I started writing I realized there is no possible way to write a review and give you everything without spoilers, and I loathe a spoiler. To sum things up simple. Sweet. Sexy. Nail biting. Throw your kindle across the room. Gut wrenching. On the edge of your seat. Book hang over hell. Awesomeness!
Stacey Johnston worked her magic once again, so good. The ending, I know I already said it, but I say it again, WTF! It’s completely unexpected and left me ready to devour After the Dust Settles (book #3). Well done, Stacey.
December 17, 2016
Sins of the Father by Stacey Johnston
My rating 5 of 5 stars
After reading the first book in the series, I couldn't wait to read more. I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn immediately. Sherlyn is quiet and innocent. Stephen has been burned by past relationships and isn't looking for love again. The love between the two is breathtaking and they are amazing together.
The character and plot are well developed. I found myself lost in the book from the beginning. Sins of the Father took me on an emotional roller coaster and my emotions are still processing. The story is filled with suspense, drama, love and heartbreak. I definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
My rating 5 of 5 stars
After reading the first book in the series, I couldn't wait to read more. I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn immediately. Sherlyn is quiet and innocent. Stephen has been burned by past relationships and isn't looking for love again. The love between the two is breathtaking and they are amazing together.
The character and plot are well developed. I found myself lost in the book from the beginning. Sins of the Father took me on an emotional roller coaster and my emotions are still processing. The story is filled with suspense, drama, love and heartbreak. I definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to read more from this author.
December 7, 2016
Wow! What a great book. This story takes you on a emotional roller coaster ride. The story of Stephen and Sherlyn will have you holding your breath, screaming, laughing and crying with them. The love they have for each other is loving, beautiful and heartbreaking. This book has action, drama, suspense, gut wrenching, passion, love, anger, heartache, tears and keeps you engrossed throughout the story.
I absolutely loved this book overall, however I deducted one star from my rating as I was not satisfied with the ending. I felt it should have ended on a happier note.
~~~Belinda for Book Haven Promotions~~~
December 11, 2016
OMG
I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn right from the beginning. This book gripped me with the information about her father and the search for a stalker. The love between the characters had me rooting for them. I will not give any spoilers, but I will tell you to grab a box of tissues. This book will rip your heart out.
I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn right from the beginning. This book gripped me with the information about her father and the search for a stalker. The love between the characters had me rooting for them. I will not give any spoilers, but I will tell you to grab a box of tissues. This book will rip your heart out.
December 31, 2016
WOW my heart hurts after reading this major book hangover people I literally cried a lot was super shocked by the ending didn't see it coming . I loved both Sherlyn and Stephen they made a beautiful couple I thought they complemented each other really well . Bring on the next one copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero =10
heroine = 10
secondary characters = 10
chemistry = 10
steam = 10
character development = 10
pacing = 10
pov= dual
ending =
cover = unique
author = ready for the next read
****************************************
hero =10
heroine = 10
secondary characters = 10
chemistry = 10
steam = 10
character development = 10
pacing = 10
pov= dual
ending =
cover = unique
author = ready for the next read
August 12, 2017
😥. That's all I'm going to say
December 15, 2016
A word to descript my reaction after reading the book "WOW" ! This was amazing.
I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn straight away, how can you not !
I hold my breath and cried while reading, yep so get prepare and grab a box of tissues, and I didn't want the book to end but it had to...
The writing was perfect, you get to be the female character for a little while :)
I am so happy I got the chance to read it. I can't wait for more from the author :)
I fell in love with Stephen and Sherlyn straight away, how can you not !
I hold my breath and cried while reading, yep so get prepare and grab a box of tissues, and I didn't want the book to end but it had to...
The writing was perfect, you get to be the female character for a little while :)
I am so happy I got the chance to read it. I can't wait for more from the author :)
November 26, 2017
First off I want to point out the positive in this book:
I liked that I didn't have to read the first book in order to
know what was going on. It kinda explained it in the
beginning,which I found helpful. I also liked the storyline.
However, I liked the idea of the story,but how you executed
the plot needed work. It felt inconsistent. It was hard to relate
and connect to the characters. It was a decent book and that's
why I gave it a 3-star rating.
I liked that I didn't have to read the first book in order to
know what was going on. It kinda explained it in the
beginning,which I found helpful. I also liked the storyline.
However, I liked the idea of the story,but how you executed
the plot needed work. It felt inconsistent. It was hard to relate
and connect to the characters. It was a decent book and that's
why I gave it a 3-star rating.
December 17, 2016
While reading this book I was thrown off by the writing style and found it to be a story with potential but I was distracted by the writing.
There could have been some more develop ment of the background of the characters and storyline.
I did find it an interesting story which just took me awhile to get into because of the style of writing. The ending was also a shocker!
There could have been some more develop ment of the background of the characters and storyline.
I did find it an interesting story which just took me awhile to get into because of the style of writing. The ending was also a shocker!
November 20, 2016
Another fantastic read from this author. Again I was kept on my toes until the end. I really loved these two, they were just amazing together. The emotional ride I took with these put me through the ringer. I can't wait to read more from this author.
November 21, 2016
omg this book was just amazing! it made me cry. this was heartbreaking! the things she had to go through and see at a young age. it was great she found her true love. i highly recommend this book to everyone! thanks for giving me a chance to read this book!
October 31, 2016
OH MY GOSH!!!! HOW!!!!! what an awesome read I can honestly say I did not see that coming!
May 29, 2017
This book was amazing. It had me wowed from the beginning. Secrets can come out even when that persons gone forever. But will it be too much ?
January 9, 2017
Wow!! 3.5 wth just happened stars!! What a way to end a book, I think I am going to need some time before I can move on from this book.
This book continues with the story of all the boys but it's main focus is Stephen and Sheryln. Well..and Sean too. We all know Sherilyn as the kind of quiet new friend that Sophie made in Brooklyn from the last book. And, of course, Stephen is one of the sexy "4". I love those boys so much. These two have this innocent love story at first and it grows. But then there are a few bumps in the road 1.) Sheryln realizes Sean wants her just as much as she wants Stephen 2.)Stephens parents move him back to California 3.) Sheryln has some surprises awaiting her from an unexpected visitor.
I love all the mystery and suspense in these books. You can tell the author is not from the United States due to some of the slang (bloody, rubbish,etc..) used that California boys would not use. I truly adored all of these books in the series but this one was slow to start. Didn't pull me in like the others, sometimes I had to go back and re read parts to understand. But halfway through then I was hooked!! And that ending was other worldly!! Devastating!! Can I not mention like what a shitty life Sherlyn has had to endure. Look who her father was...well not that her mother was any better. Oh and shout out to Sean, Anthony and Hawke. Those men handle business!! Also ever since I was introduced to Hawke I have wanted to know more but when Sarah mentioned something about his love life I am freaking intrigued!! Please tell me we find out more about Hawke (I can't help I am sooo greedy. Haha)?!?!
I am sure you can read these books as standalone books, because they will be just as good, but the backgrounds of all the characters make these books so good. Well I am on to the newest one. I'm so excited!!
This book continues with the story of all the boys but it's main focus is Stephen and Sheryln. Well..and Sean too. We all know Sherilyn as the kind of quiet new friend that Sophie made in Brooklyn from the last book. And, of course, Stephen is one of the sexy "4". I love those boys so much. These two have this innocent love story at first and it grows. But then there are a few bumps in the road 1.) Sheryln realizes Sean wants her just as much as she wants Stephen 2.)Stephens parents move him back to California 3.) Sheryln has some surprises awaiting her from an unexpected visitor.
I love all the mystery and suspense in these books. You can tell the author is not from the United States due to some of the slang (bloody, rubbish,etc..) used that California boys would not use. I truly adored all of these books in the series but this one was slow to start. Didn't pull me in like the others, sometimes I had to go back and re read parts to understand. But halfway through then I was hooked!! And that ending was other worldly!! Devastating!! Can I not mention like what a shitty life Sherlyn has had to endure. Look who her father was...well not that her mother was any better. Oh and shout out to Sean, Anthony and Hawke. Those men handle business!! Also ever since I was introduced to Hawke I have wanted to know more but when Sarah mentioned something about his love life I am freaking intrigued!! Please tell me we find out more about Hawke (I can't help I am sooo greedy. Haha)?!?!
I am sure you can read these books as standalone books, because they will be just as good, but the backgrounds of all the characters make these books so good. Well I am on to the newest one. I'm so excited!!
March 23, 2019
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it, so I was excited to dive into this one. It had a more emotional impact on me then the first book did. The love between Stephen and Sherlyn was amazing. Add in the suspense factor and I had to push through to find out what was going to happen. I wasn’t disappointed. Sometimes your past can really affect your present/future and the author did great at showing this. My heart broke many times for these characters but the author fixed me. I won’t give spoilers but know that it was worth the wild ride. 4 stars #2OCCJD
December 26, 2016
4.5 stars
After reading the first book in the series I was awaiting the sequel and Ms. Johnston doesn't disappoint. Sherlyn and Stephen's story is one of love and heartbreak. This story takes you on a roller coaster of emotions.
Sherlyn is a shy, innocent girl in her last year of high school. She falls hard for Stephen, but he was burned in the past and can't let her in. Stephen is now out of danger and his parents decide to move him back to California to finish out his senior year. His heart is still in Brooklyn. Sherlyn's past finally catches up with her and is in danger. Will she come out unscathed when she finally confronts her past?
I loved this continuation but I didn't expect the ending. That's what I like about Ms. Johnston's writing.
After reading the first book in the series I was awaiting the sequel and Ms. Johnston doesn't disappoint. Sherlyn and Stephen's story is one of love and heartbreak. This story takes you on a roller coaster of emotions.
Sherlyn is a shy, innocent girl in her last year of high school. She falls hard for Stephen, but he was burned in the past and can't let her in. Stephen is now out of danger and his parents decide to move him back to California to finish out his senior year. His heart is still in Brooklyn. Sherlyn's past finally catches up with her and is in danger. Will she come out unscathed when she finally confronts her past?
I loved this continuation but I didn't expect the ending. That's what I like about Ms. Johnston's writing.
November 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
Sins of the Father (California Dreaming #2)
By Stacey Johnston
This is the continuation of the California Dreaming Series and focuses on Sherlyn and Stephen. I enjoyed the book for the most part, very angst driven. My heart goes out to Sherlyn and Stephen, but the reason I deducted a 1/2 star is because I wanted a better ending. (I know, I know but I can't help it).
Overall, I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to the next book :)
Sins of the Father (California Dreaming #2)
By Stacey Johnston
This is the continuation of the California Dreaming Series and focuses on Sherlyn and Stephen. I enjoyed the book for the most part, very angst driven. My heart goes out to Sherlyn and Stephen, but the reason I deducted a 1/2 star is because I wanted a better ending. (I know, I know but I can't help it).
Overall, I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to the next book :)
April 19, 2025
Warning, this is a romantic tragedy. I was not prepared and oh my gosh I'm so not okay.
Sherlyn may not have the best parents, but her dad's actions will haunt them from beyond the grave. Stephen is not over his first heartbreak so he's keeping Sherlyn at a distance, but she's determined to make him see she can really be his dream girl.
Holy wow this book was so good. A great series, just be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster you're about to be on.
Sherlyn may not have the best parents, but her dad's actions will haunt them from beyond the grave. Stephen is not over his first heartbreak so he's keeping Sherlyn at a distance, but she's determined to make him see she can really be his dream girl.
Holy wow this book was so good. A great series, just be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster you're about to be on.
February 4, 2019
This is the second book in this series. It’s an ugly cry so be prepared. The writing is great and I fell in love with the characters. There’s twist in the book that will keep you going & seeing the love Sherlyn & Stephen have for each other & everything they go through, you will love them even more.
February 5, 2019
Oh good lord. What did I just read! Holy smokes that was gooood. So much so that even though I got the first 2 as arcs, you'd better believe I bought the other 2 books in this series. I HAVE to know how this series is gonna end!.I HAVE to!
September 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. My heart went out to Sherlyn and Stephen and everything they go through and the love between these characters Is amazing. I loved the suspense and it kept me hooked and turning the pages to see what would happen next. Overall, a really great read and one I recommend.
May 18, 2021
Yes this is the story! 2021 must read! This book will take you down, twist you around, spank your hiney and remind you it's about teenagers over and over again before it finally buries you.
5 star story loses a star for editing issues. If it was one or two no biggie but wow
5 star story loses a star for editing issues. If it was one or two no biggie but wow
April 11, 2025
Emotional and intense. Has trauma, tension, lies/secrets, revelations, interactions, drama, suspense, issues/situations, emotions, romance/love, and twists. Intriguing and emotional story about the lives of Sherlyn and Steven: their pasr, present, and future.
November 26, 2018
This book is full of danger, suspense and young love. Stephen and Sherlyn finally works through issues. I did not see the end coming. This was a hard book to put down.
June 17, 2019
3.5
The writing is good and the characters are ok, I just struggled with connecting to them. The storyline is ok, there is a twist to look forward to. This just isn't the book for me.
The writing is good and the characters are ok, I just struggled with connecting to them. The storyline is ok, there is a twist to look forward to. This just isn't the book for me.
July 19, 2019
An emotional story, that keeps you guessing, and intrigued.
...the characters become a part of you, what an ending!!!
...the characters become a part of you, what an ending!!!
December 15, 2016
I didn't know there was a book before this one, but I wasn't lost at all. This book did a good job of background. Definitely grab the tissues though, you'll need them. So worth it though!!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews