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Percy Place #2
Dare To Dream
Georgina Corrigan is worried. The first women sent to her Percy Place home by the BOBs – an organisation which supports women escaping difficult home lives – are ready to step out into the world again. Some have found opportunities in Dublin, others will travel across the sea to New York. Will those travelling to America find employment with the Harvey Company? Thousands try every year to become Harvey Girls – young women who serve in restaurants and hotels set up to serve travellers on the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railway line. Will they be successful when so many fail? Meanwhile, at home complications multiply. Georgina is surprised when a strange young man appears, claiming the BOBs have sent him – but shocked when he reveals why. Then Flora Kilroy escapes a life of virtual slavery and appears on Georgina’s doorstep, claiming to be a relative. What can Georgina do? She is helping strangers – she can’t turn family away. As the people who serve in the house struggle to meet the demands of each new arrival, Georgina wonders if she will ever know peace again. The women of Percy Place greet each new day with fortitude. Failure is not an option. They are determined that they can, and will, not only survive but thrive.
400 pages, Paperback
Published March 27, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
March 31, 2019
More, Please!!!
Here's another riveting take from Gamma Jackson. Ivy Rose's story was was moving, horrifying and delightful, and the Percy Place books carry on that tradition. But I want more! I want to know what happens with Jenny and Bridget. How do the ladies in America fare? Will Richard finally get his wish? And seeing Billy Flint's development (the one carryover from the Ivy Rose stories) is fascinating! I hope there are more stories in the works.
Here's another riveting take from Gamma Jackson. Ivy Rose's story was was moving, horrifying and delightful, and the Percy Place books carry on that tradition. But I want more! I want to know what happens with Jenny and Bridget. How do the ladies in America fare? Will Richard finally get his wish? And seeing Billy Flint's development (the one carryover from the Ivy Rose stories) is fascinating! I hope there are more stories in the works.
June 2, 2019
This was the 2nd book in a set of 2 and it was a good follow up to the first. It centers around a woman who was horribly abused by her husband and left penniless. so she decides to open up her home to society women who find themselves in the same situation. She teaches them how to live independently without the help of servants, since none of these women know how to do much on their own. She then sends some to America to start their new lives away from their husbands who in some instances are still looking for them. It's a great set of books and I really enjoyed the stories. They're set in the late 1800's and it's amazing the lack of rights women had in those days. These women were left out of wills only because they were women, they weren't allowed any land rights only because they were women, it's just unbelievable how far we've come. thanks to all the women before us. I got these books free on Kindle Unlimited and am glad I chose them, I'd never heard anything about them, but I find those are usually the best books. I'd recommend these to anyone who likes historical fiction or anyone who likes a strong female protagonist.
August 25, 2023
I seem to be caught up in this series and can't put it down.
I love the storyline and the characters.
It is 1899 in Dublin, Ireland and there is a houseful of women and girls trying to build better lives for themselves.
All kinds of intrigue and dynamics.
This second book like the first of the series ends rather abruptly, which of course encourages me to hurry and carry on with the next of the series.
I love the storyline and the characters.
It is 1899 in Dublin, Ireland and there is a houseful of women and girls trying to build better lives for themselves.
All kinds of intrigue and dynamics.
This second book like the first of the series ends rather abruptly, which of course encourages me to hurry and carry on with the next of the series.
June 13, 2019
A Fiercely Moving Tale
... of fortitude and strength of character. The men and women, young and old, whose stories are told here are to be admired. I hope there are sequel books for the women who bravely travel far from home so we can learn their fates. Four stars because the book ends too abruptly and simply. A comeuppance was due true, but its handling leaves this reader wanting.
... of fortitude and strength of character. The men and women, young and old, whose stories are told here are to be admired. I hope there are sequel books for the women who bravely travel far from home so we can learn their fates. Four stars because the book ends too abruptly and simply. A comeuppance was due true, but its handling leaves this reader wanting.
March 29, 2019
Loved This Series...
This series is like comfort food for the soul. I've loved every single book by this auhor, always well written . If you love stories of Ireland, you'll enjoy these books. Suitable for everyone.
This series is like comfort food for the soul. I've loved every single book by this auhor, always well written . If you love stories of Ireland, you'll enjoy these books. Suitable for everyone.
March 28, 2019
Book 2
I have enjoyed reading this series of books about the constraints on women in the late 1800's. Clean read, suitable for teens
I have enjoyed reading this series of books about the constraints on women in the late 1800's. Clean read, suitable for teens
June 29, 2019
Percy place book 2 is another excellent read
Really wonderful in every respect except it’s not a standalone. The reader is too intrigued to stop at this exciting point, one has to buy the next in series. No complaints as it’s worth it for the enjoyable characters and their various plights.
Really wonderful in every respect except it’s not a standalone. The reader is too intrigued to stop at this exciting point, one has to buy the next in series. No complaints as it’s worth it for the enjoyable characters and their various plights.
June 21, 2019
Excellent read
Gemma Jackson is a talented story teller. Filled with detail and such believable scenes you become so involved in the story line it’s hard to put the book down. Each character is explored and you await thier fate, no one is forgotten. What a delightful series. Can’t wait for the third in the series.
Gemma Jackson is a talented story teller. Filled with detail and such believable scenes you become so involved in the story line it’s hard to put the book down. Each character is explored and you await thier fate, no one is forgotten. What a delightful series. Can’t wait for the third in the series.
March 30, 2020
While I truly enjoyed reading all the adventures of the ladies of the house, I’d like to know where the rest of the book is. The horrible husband is dead as is the sadistic husband of her friend. When will they tell Bridget who her mother is? When will they reunite? What happens to all the story lines? Where is the epilogue? I’m hoping there is a book three that will follow Georgina and Jenny to a happier life. I’m wondering what happens to Molly and Flora and Dorothy and Agatha and the two little maids.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2020
I’m conflicted?
First book I loved, second book I’m a tad disappointed. This book was a continuation and I happily dived into the pages. Immediately almost a score of new characters were introduced with very little advancement of the plot or the first 20 or so characters. I guess I not terribly bright because I found the different ways each character was addressed to be confusing. I’m probably going to get these names wrong so please forgive me, it does illustrate my point. One character Lady Westbrook- Something or other, The Dowager Duchess of Westbroke, Beatrice & Your Grace are one example of the multiple firms of address given to a single character. Frequently a single form of address was used at different points in the story. Four of the original characters names are changed , one character has two completely different names. Suddenly five characters have become ten. The original four women sent to America kind of fizzled out as the story continued. I think the author is going to write more about this story but it’s been 21 months and I can’t find anything commenting about another book in the series. When I picked up this book I was looking forward to hearing about the original characters but there was very, very little done to advance these characters. I didn’t appreciate the way the Whitmore character was “used” in this plot. It seemed like it was an afterthought and he had been forgotten. After writing this I’m not conflicted , I’m disappointed. Five dollars is a lot of money in my world right now and I wish I hadn’t spent it on this book.
First book I loved, second book I’m a tad disappointed. This book was a continuation and I happily dived into the pages. Immediately almost a score of new characters were introduced with very little advancement of the plot or the first 20 or so characters. I guess I not terribly bright because I found the different ways each character was addressed to be confusing. I’m probably going to get these names wrong so please forgive me, it does illustrate my point. One character Lady Westbrook- Something or other, The Dowager Duchess of Westbroke, Beatrice & Your Grace are one example of the multiple firms of address given to a single character. Frequently a single form of address was used at different points in the story. Four of the original characters names are changed , one character has two completely different names. Suddenly five characters have become ten. The original four women sent to America kind of fizzled out as the story continued. I think the author is going to write more about this story but it’s been 21 months and I can’t find anything commenting about another book in the series. When I picked up this book I was looking forward to hearing about the original characters but there was very, very little done to advance these characters. I didn’t appreciate the way the Whitmore character was “used” in this plot. It seemed like it was an afterthought and he had been forgotten. After writing this I’m not conflicted , I’m disappointed. Five dollars is a lot of money in my world right now and I wish I hadn’t spent it on this book.
January 1, 2021
An illuminating view of the life of women in the 19th century ~not to be missed!
The story of lack of not just the rights of women but the total disregard of them having any relavence other than arm‐candy, brood mare, hostess, and lest I forget, an economical acquisition is a real eye opener. I have read books 1 & 2 leaving me desperately hoping for a book 3.
I found myself totally caught up in the lives of the various women and their circumstances. I was on the edge of my seat much of the time. There's so many characters and each is well drawn that I could not get involved with them all. I want to know what happens to each one. Happy endings do not come easily. The men and women face struggles some of which are not easy to overcome and when they are some can be 2nd best. However the books are a study in the art of thinking outside of the box then having the raw courage to go forward and just do it despite any obstacles!
Gemma Jackson is a great wordsmith. She is not one of those authors who keep using the same story and just changing the names or setting of each book. He characters are unique as is each of their circumstances and challenges.
There just has to be a third book in the series.
The story of lack of not just the rights of women but the total disregard of them having any relavence other than arm‐candy, brood mare, hostess, and lest I forget, an economical acquisition is a real eye opener. I have read books 1 & 2 leaving me desperately hoping for a book 3.
I found myself totally caught up in the lives of the various women and their circumstances. I was on the edge of my seat much of the time. There's so many characters and each is well drawn that I could not get involved with them all. I want to know what happens to each one. Happy endings do not come easily. The men and women face struggles some of which are not easy to overcome and when they are some can be 2nd best. However the books are a study in the art of thinking outside of the box then having the raw courage to go forward and just do it despite any obstacles!
Gemma Jackson is a great wordsmith. She is not one of those authors who keep using the same story and just changing the names or setting of each book. He characters are unique as is each of their circumstances and challenges.
There just has to be a third book in the series.
April 18, 2021
Definitely need to read the preceding book before reading this one to understand the backstory of the main characters. This follows the society ladies who needed to make their way in the world for various reasons. It also follows Georgina &c back in Dublin as they continue to aid people who need refuge and help getting a fresh start. There are SO MANY new characters introduced - in Ireland, in America, aboard the ship to America. It was a lot to follow. It was interesting to learn with the America-bound women what it was like to apply to be a Harvey Girl, but there are a lot of loose story threads left hanging, in particular Bridget's story. It feels like there needs to be another book to wrap things for the characters introduced in the first book and followed again in this one.
Head-hopping still utilized. If you hate it, you'll want to skip this book.
Side character is gay and amenable to a marriage of convenience to a friend's newly-widowed wife. It felt a bit irrelevant/token Inclusivity because it doesn't play much role in the story except, I guess, explaining why he'd be ok with that kind of arrangement?
Definite CW: abuse
Described in enough detail that it was a bit disturbing.
Head-hopping still utilized. If you hate it, you'll want to skip this book.
Side character is gay and amenable to a marriage of convenience to a friend's newly-widowed wife. It felt a bit irrelevant/token Inclusivity because it doesn't play much role in the story except, I guess, explaining why he'd be ok with that kind of arrangement?
Definite CW: abuse
Described in enough detail that it was a bit disturbing.
July 16, 2020
The Percy Place series
The Percy Place series:
Book 1 and 2
If you purchase a book that says "series", one would think the reader would understand there is to be more books to come, therefore, the answers to some of your questions are yet to yet to be. I start off this review this way because I saw that a number of people were disgruntled by not knowing what happens to all of the characters.
That being said, I enjoyed the two book series very much. The author painted a picture of the suffering of women and their plight. From being owned by their husband's like chattel, and the struggles/abuse they went through in gaining their freedom, dignity and self-worth; others were orphaned or trying to climb out of poverty seeking equality and freedom from the grip that society had cast them in. The series highlights numerous characters, sheds light on their individual plights and shows a way out and a stronger better future. The series is set in the late 1800's/ early 1900's. With the assistance of a woman's organization, those who dare go against all they know to build a brighter tomorrow. I enjoyed the books very much.
The Percy Place series:
Book 1 and 2
If you purchase a book that says "series", one would think the reader would understand there is to be more books to come, therefore, the answers to some of your questions are yet to yet to be. I start off this review this way because I saw that a number of people were disgruntled by not knowing what happens to all of the characters.
That being said, I enjoyed the two book series very much. The author painted a picture of the suffering of women and their plight. From being owned by their husband's like chattel, and the struggles/abuse they went through in gaining their freedom, dignity and self-worth; others were orphaned or trying to climb out of poverty seeking equality and freedom from the grip that society had cast them in. The series highlights numerous characters, sheds light on their individual plights and shows a way out and a stronger better future. The series is set in the late 1800's/ early 1900's. With the assistance of a woman's organization, those who dare go against all they know to build a brighter tomorrow. I enjoyed the books very much.
April 9, 2019
The Percy Place saga continues!
Another great story by Gemma Jackson! Set in turn of the century Dublin, the unusual household of Georgina Corrigan continues to shelter woman seeking a life of choice, running from the often cruel and violent future imposed by their husbands, fathers, or other male heads of household.
As the first of their 'students' get settled in America, new women arrive at her door seeking assistance - each bringing a new and unique drama to the house. This segment of the story ends with a train wreck - opening a whole new set of possibilities and problems for Georgina and friends.
This was book two of what I'm guessing will be a three book series. Book three is not yet written - at least not yet published. I will be holding my breath waiting for the conclusion.
I've really come to be a fan of author Gemma Jackson. I've enjoyed everything I've read from her so far, and will likely be among the first to purchase the next volume in the Percy Place series. Hope the wait won't be too long!
Another great story by Gemma Jackson! Set in turn of the century Dublin, the unusual household of Georgina Corrigan continues to shelter woman seeking a life of choice, running from the often cruel and violent future imposed by their husbands, fathers, or other male heads of household.
As the first of their 'students' get settled in America, new women arrive at her door seeking assistance - each bringing a new and unique drama to the house. This segment of the story ends with a train wreck - opening a whole new set of possibilities and problems for Georgina and friends.
This was book two of what I'm guessing will be a three book series. Book three is not yet written - at least not yet published. I will be holding my breath waiting for the conclusion.
I've really come to be a fan of author Gemma Jackson. I've enjoyed everything I've read from her so far, and will likely be among the first to purchase the next volume in the Percy Place series. Hope the wait won't be too long!
October 11, 2022
Grim but with a hopeful light ahead...
Gemma Jackson seems to have gathered a bunch of the worst abuse stories in one place and created an escape plan for them eventually. These ladies and a few men work something like the Underground Railroad only they're helping women escape abuse whether it be parental, spousal, or employer. They help them escape their situation and find a way to take charge of their lives, a way to stand on their own feet and make their own decisions. We hear the details of much of the abuse and several of the escape plans as well as a lot of the planning and organization at one of the halfway houses. We get a glimpse of the pain of some of the women and the way they feel about themselves. We watch as they work to rebuild their lives and to understand that they are worth so much more than they ever realized. To know freedom. Recommended.
Gemma Jackson seems to have gathered a bunch of the worst abuse stories in one place and created an escape plan for them eventually. These ladies and a few men work something like the Underground Railroad only they're helping women escape abuse whether it be parental, spousal, or employer. They help them escape their situation and find a way to take charge of their lives, a way to stand on their own feet and make their own decisions. We hear the details of much of the abuse and several of the escape plans as well as a lot of the planning and organization at one of the halfway houses. We get a glimpse of the pain of some of the women and the way they feel about themselves. We watch as they work to rebuild their lives and to understand that they are worth so much more than they ever realized. To know freedom. Recommended.
December 14, 2020
Couldn’t read it fast enough.
I really had grown tired of the usually Victorian romance book and was looking for a different genre. I happened upon this series of two books and tore through them in about four days.
I can only hope Ms. Jackson doesn’t stop at the end of this one. I really want to know what happens to Bridget and Jenny, Flora, Helen, Billy Flint, Dorothy, and whether Richard and Georgina go forward.
I am crossing my fingers and plan on following the author so I’ll be able to buy any book as soon as it comes out.
I really had grown tired of the usually Victorian romance book and was looking for a different genre. I happened upon this series of two books and tore through them in about four days.
I can only hope Ms. Jackson doesn’t stop at the end of this one. I really want to know what happens to Bridget and Jenny, Flora, Helen, Billy Flint, Dorothy, and whether Richard and Georgina go forward.
I am crossing my fingers and plan on following the author so I’ll be able to buy any book as soon as it comes out.
July 27, 2021
One of THE Worst Endings EVER!
If I had read this series first I would have never continued with this author. Looking back this must be a prequel since it was printed more recently than the other series though set farther back in time.
I liked getting to know Billy Flint and Granny Grunt during their younger days and the story pulls you along but there is no excuse for that ending. I wouldn't recommend it. I would be ashamed when they got to the last page as if I wrote it.
I've decided this author has lost me.
If I had read this series first I would have never continued with this author. Looking back this must be a prequel since it was printed more recently than the other series though set farther back in time.
I liked getting to know Billy Flint and Granny Grunt during their younger days and the story pulls you along but there is no excuse for that ending. I wouldn't recommend it. I would be ashamed when they got to the last page as if I wrote it.
I've decided this author has lost me.
September 22, 2024
Superb!
The story of Georgina Whitmore continues. The original ladies brought to live at Percy Place by the Brides of Breeding have moved on, in control of their lives and futures. Now Georgina has a new group of mistreated women to aid in regaining control of their lives and the story continues...with a twist.
Ms. Jackson has succeeded in bringing forth a second part of this series that rivals the first in its ability to entertain. I'm eager to read the next installment.
The story of Georgina Whitmore continues. The original ladies brought to live at Percy Place by the Brides of Breeding have moved on, in control of their lives and futures. Now Georgina has a new group of mistreated women to aid in regaining control of their lives and the story continues...with a twist.
Ms. Jackson has succeeded in bringing forth a second part of this series that rivals the first in its ability to entertain. I'm eager to read the next installment.
April 3, 2019
The book is follows the stories of several different groups of women that all have a connection to Percy Place. All the stories are interesting, but at times they were a bit disjointed, it was like reading ‘snippets’ from their lives rather than an overall story. However, I always enjoy this authors books and this one was no exception.
I have one minor criticism about the way the Kindle version is formatted, there is quite a wide left margin which makes the line length quite short.
I have one minor criticism about the way the Kindle version is formatted, there is quite a wide left margin which makes the line length quite short.
April 7, 2019
The story continues...
Start with Impossible Dreams and then read this sequel. Gemma Jackson is an excellent writer with wonderful stories of strong women who band together to handle what life throws at them in a time when women had little power to live their own lives. This story takes place both in Ireland and America with great details on how people lived during the beginning of the 1900's.
Start with Impossible Dreams and then read this sequel. Gemma Jackson is an excellent writer with wonderful stories of strong women who band together to handle what life throws at them in a time when women had little power to live their own lives. This story takes place both in Ireland and America with great details on how people lived during the beginning of the 1900's.
July 25, 2019
Dreams can come true...with a lot of hard work and good people.
These are such great stories that entertain as well as provide a detailed view into the 1800s. Intertwined into the changing lives of desperate women are surprising tales of bravery and unselfish caring, crossing over the bounds of society in Ireland. A positive, realistic novel with what we need: redeeming social value.
These are such great stories that entertain as well as provide a detailed view into the 1800s. Intertwined into the changing lives of desperate women are surprising tales of bravery and unselfish caring, crossing over the bounds of society in Ireland. A positive, realistic novel with what we need: redeeming social value.
July 27, 2020
This continues the adventures of Georgina and friends and staff that help women who are living in either poverty or abusive situations. 4 women are moving the US and apply to be Harvey Girls. Some new women arrive and adventures continue. Way too much time was spent on talking about adding bathrooms to the house, it was almost a subplot, but I enjoyed the book. I expect there might be a third someday.
December 19, 2020
A little complicated, but....
Well-worth untangling all the subplots! Although it involved a little sorting and some backing up, I was enthralled by this story and the many agonies women of that time period had to endure. I was able to sort the characters, although there was many of them, because their stories were all so intriguing. I highly recommend this series and sincerely hope Ms Jackson intends to add to the series!
Well-worth untangling all the subplots! Although it involved a little sorting and some backing up, I was enthralled by this story and the many agonies women of that time period had to endure. I was able to sort the characters, although there was many of them, because their stories were all so intriguing. I highly recommend this series and sincerely hope Ms Jackson intends to add to the series!
January 3, 2021
Wish there were more books in the series.
I read these ( Books 1 and 2) on New Year's Day and January 2, 2021. There were some ghastly stories (2020) leading to some incredibly uplifting stories (2021). The pain and the caring and generosity. But also a lesson all young and old women should know-that they have value. I just wish there were more in the series. So many unfinished stories. More Gemma, please.
I read these ( Books 1 and 2) on New Year's Day and January 2, 2021. There were some ghastly stories (2020) leading to some incredibly uplifting stories (2021). The pain and the caring and generosity. But also a lesson all young and old women should know-that they have value. I just wish there were more in the series. So many unfinished stories. More Gemma, please.
February 13, 2022
Excellent story
This is xuch a delightful story. After i read the first story i just had to get this next one in the series. The people are so real and lovable and down to earth and the charaters are very realistic. The people in this story help yoing girls in trouble so they can start a new life.Its about Brides fof Breeding. Thats what happened in the 1800 . They became subjects of their husbands
This is xuch a delightful story. After i read the first story i just had to get this next one in the series. The people are so real and lovable and down to earth and the charaters are very realistic. The people in this story help yoing girls in trouble so they can start a new life.Its about Brides fof Breeding. Thats what happened in the 1800 . They became subjects of their husbands
September 3, 2019
Gemma Jackson is a solid favorite
Anyone who likes learning a looks history and really getting a feel for a different time an place should enjoy this book. Her characters are very real and you truly get to know and love or despise them. Now we absolutely need a follow-up to this one!
Anyone who likes learning a looks history and really getting a feel for a different time an place should enjoy this book. Her characters are very real and you truly get to know and love or despise them. Now we absolutely need a follow-up to this one!
October 6, 2019
This cannot be the end of the series
I love Gemma Jackson's novels. I read the Molly Murphy series, and now the two Percy Place novels. As happy as I am with the ending of Dare To Dream, there is so much more to learn of these ladies. Please, Gemma Jackson, don't leave us hanging!
I love Gemma Jackson's novels. I read the Molly Murphy series, and now the two Percy Place novels. As happy as I am with the ending of Dare To Dream, there is so much more to learn of these ladies. Please, Gemma Jackson, don't leave us hanging!
April 6, 2020
Percy Place Series by Gemma Jackson
I have read both books of that series Impossible Dream and Dare to Dream and enjoyed them. I know they are fiction but I'm afraid that women have been abused and are being abused even today. I am just grateful that does not happen in my home and in my daughter's homes.
I have read both books of that series Impossible Dream and Dare to Dream and enjoyed them. I know they are fiction but I'm afraid that women have been abused and are being abused even today. I am just grateful that does not happen in my home and in my daughter's homes.
May 24, 2020
Harvey Girls
Aside from the fact that I enjoy Gemma Jackson’s writing, I especially enjoyed the connection to the Harvey Girls through the characters in this book. I live in one of the towns on the train route mentioned in the story. I appreciate the way women are portrayed as strong characters.
Aside from the fact that I enjoy Gemma Jackson’s writing, I especially enjoyed the connection to the Harvey Girls through the characters in this book. I live in one of the towns on the train route mentioned in the story. I appreciate the way women are portrayed as strong characters.
June 29, 2020
It is a while since I read this book by Gamma Jackson. I really like her books and this one is the 2nd in the Percy Place series. A very interesting topic which I knew nothing about where women were helped to rebuild their lives and start to look forward with hope.
Thank you for introducing me to this period in history.
Thank you for introducing me to this period in history.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews