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Tempered Dreams: Tempered Series (Edgy Inspirational) Book 2
* This book deals openly and candidly with domestic violence and some scenes my be a trigger to readers.**He took an oath to preserve life…Can he stick to it when the woman he loves is in jeopardy? Dr. Scott Hensley (introduced in Tempered Hearts) has built a wall around his heart since the death of his wife and parents. Katrina Simmons is recovering from scars inflicted on her as a battered wife. Can dreams be renewed and faith strengthened? Can they find joy and peace in God’s love and in love for one another?
- GenresChristian
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2005
1 person is currently reading
11 people want to read
About the author
Pamela S. Thibodeaux
33 books156 followersAward winning Author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers' Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction and creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, "Inspirational with an Edge!" and reviewed as "steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message."
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 24, 2020
This is the second book in the Tempered Series, but it can be read as a standalone. There are characters from the first story that make an appearance, but the main story is contained within this book. We met Dr. Scott Hensley at Craig Harris' ranch, but in this story, Scott has moved and is practising medicine in a large hospital. He meets a young woman, Katrina, on the road at the scene of an accident and it is obvious to him that she has been abused. Something about her attracts him, and he not only wants to protect her, but he wants to get to know her as well.
This is a book about faith and forgiveness. In life, forgiveness is not always easy and that was portrayed well in this book. There is also some anger that rears its ugly head that has to be brought under control and used in a positive way. There are a few villains in this book, starting with Katrina's abusive husband as well as her step-father. I do not want to give the story away, so I will tell you that there are lessons to learn, as well as encouragement to love and forgive others. I enjoyed this story more than the first one. It was well-written and the characters were well-developed. The dialogue was good with some humour as well as serious discussions. There was an aspect of instalove from Scott, but Katrina held back and waited for a time before she gave over to those feelings. I want to warn readers that there are instances of abuse in this story, but it is not overly graphic and is necessary to the plot. I recommend this book to those who like a good Christian Romance.
Once again, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Terri England. She has a very smooth delivery and the voices were well done. I did speed up the narration a bit, which enhanced my enjoyment of this story. I was gifted a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This is a book about faith and forgiveness. In life, forgiveness is not always easy and that was portrayed well in this book. There is also some anger that rears its ugly head that has to be brought under control and used in a positive way. There are a few villains in this book, starting with Katrina's abusive husband as well as her step-father. I do not want to give the story away, so I will tell you that there are lessons to learn, as well as encouragement to love and forgive others. I enjoyed this story more than the first one. It was well-written and the characters were well-developed. The dialogue was good with some humour as well as serious discussions. There was an aspect of instalove from Scott, but Katrina held back and waited for a time before she gave over to those feelings. I want to warn readers that there are instances of abuse in this story, but it is not overly graphic and is necessary to the plot. I recommend this book to those who like a good Christian Romance.
Once again, I listened to the audiobook narrated by Terri England. She has a very smooth delivery and the voices were well done. I did speed up the narration a bit, which enhanced my enjoyment of this story. I was gifted a copy of this audiobook upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
January 24, 2020
(I am reviewing the Audio version of this book.)
I really loved the first book in this series. The second book did not disappoint. It was just as good as the first book. It was wonderful to re visit with some of the characters from the first book. It was also great to meet the children of those characters.
There were loads of lessons and messages in this story.
There was lots of encouragement as well.
The story was well written and flowed really well.
The narration was great just as in the first book.
If you haven't read book 1 in this series, it would be helpful to do so.
I would highly recommend this book and the series so far.
I was given a free review copy of this audio book and have voluntarily left this review.
I really loved the first book in this series. The second book did not disappoint. It was just as good as the first book. It was wonderful to re visit with some of the characters from the first book. It was also great to meet the children of those characters.
There were loads of lessons and messages in this story.
There was lots of encouragement as well.
The story was well written and flowed really well.
The narration was great just as in the first book.
If you haven't read book 1 in this series, it would be helpful to do so.
I would highly recommend this book and the series so far.
I was given a free review copy of this audio book and have voluntarily left this review.
March 29, 2020
I enjoyed this realistic story about a young woman’s battle to free herself from a life of domestic abuse.
After a car accident shatters her lifelong dream, Katrina Simmons ends her marriage. On his way to a job assignment, Dr. Scott Hensley happens upon the accident and assists until paramedics arrive.
Despite the wedding ring Trina wears, Scott is drawn to her and follows the young woman to the hospital. He slowly insinuates himself into her life. When he learns Trina filed for divorce, Scott is even more determined to be in her life and protect her.
Distrustful and suspicious, Trina pushes Scott away as she deals with husband, Jack Simmons, who contests the divorce and stalks Trina, making angry, threatening phone calls to her. When Jack’s anger explodes, Trina pays the price. However, Scott stays close, trying to win her trust.
Another abuser from Trina’s past deals a blow that changes her life forever and leaves her reeling. She’s at odds with everything and everyone in her life, including Scott, and knows she’ll find no peace or wholeness until she reconnects with her Catholic faith and feels forgiveness from God.
This poor woman went through it! The narrator did a great job with Trina’s feelings of shame, despair, and inadequacy. Trina had several setbacks—some of her own making—and they felt real, not forced or contrived.
Craig and Tamara Harris from book 1 show up for moral support and more. Tamara is the confidante Trina needs to discuss her sexual shame, but even more so is Craig and Tamara’s seventeen-year-old daughter, Amber, who’s the brightest light in this story. She’s got just enough teenage snark to drive her daddy crazy, an antagonistic but loving relationship with little brother, Ace, and is deeply rooted in her Christian beliefs enough to impart wisdom to Trina.
Scott is still as personable as he was in book 1, despite the years that have passed and the losses he’s suffered. I admired his commitment to stand by Trina but felt he was too intrusive and controlling inserting his will over hers. Tempered Dreams does a great job of the blending and acceptance of religions. But Scott’s little speech to the priest almost undid it all. Much respect to the priest for his metered words because I would have shown Scott the door. He also felt a bit hypocritical sharing scriptures with Trina to support her journey back to God in one scene, and his hands way too busy in places they didn’t belong on her body in the next. He and Trina both also seemed to equate good looks and a profession of faith with God’s perfection. Meh. Come out of the shallow end of the pool. I don’t expect or need perfection from Christian characters because the journey is personal and ongoing, but it would be nice to have character I can depend on when human nature wants to run rampant.
It wasn’t easy listening to Trina’s journey. The depths of her anguish were heartbreaking because her internal battle with forgiveness and acceptance was just as difficult for her as the violence and loss that had dominated her life. But good writing, pacing, and narration enhanced her story to show a relationship with God isn’t a goal or destination but the journey itself.
Enjoy!
After a car accident shatters her lifelong dream, Katrina Simmons ends her marriage. On his way to a job assignment, Dr. Scott Hensley happens upon the accident and assists until paramedics arrive.
Despite the wedding ring Trina wears, Scott is drawn to her and follows the young woman to the hospital. He slowly insinuates himself into her life. When he learns Trina filed for divorce, Scott is even more determined to be in her life and protect her.
Distrustful and suspicious, Trina pushes Scott away as she deals with husband, Jack Simmons, who contests the divorce and stalks Trina, making angry, threatening phone calls to her. When Jack’s anger explodes, Trina pays the price. However, Scott stays close, trying to win her trust.
Another abuser from Trina’s past deals a blow that changes her life forever and leaves her reeling. She’s at odds with everything and everyone in her life, including Scott, and knows she’ll find no peace or wholeness until she reconnects with her Catholic faith and feels forgiveness from God.
This poor woman went through it! The narrator did a great job with Trina’s feelings of shame, despair, and inadequacy. Trina had several setbacks—some of her own making—and they felt real, not forced or contrived.
Craig and Tamara Harris from book 1 show up for moral support and more. Tamara is the confidante Trina needs to discuss her sexual shame, but even more so is Craig and Tamara’s seventeen-year-old daughter, Amber, who’s the brightest light in this story. She’s got just enough teenage snark to drive her daddy crazy, an antagonistic but loving relationship with little brother, Ace, and is deeply rooted in her Christian beliefs enough to impart wisdom to Trina.
Scott is still as personable as he was in book 1, despite the years that have passed and the losses he’s suffered. I admired his commitment to stand by Trina but felt he was too intrusive and controlling inserting his will over hers. Tempered Dreams does a great job of the blending and acceptance of religions. But Scott’s little speech to the priest almost undid it all. Much respect to the priest for his metered words because I would have shown Scott the door. He also felt a bit hypocritical sharing scriptures with Trina to support her journey back to God in one scene, and his hands way too busy in places they didn’t belong on her body in the next. He and Trina both also seemed to equate good looks and a profession of faith with God’s perfection. Meh. Come out of the shallow end of the pool. I don’t expect or need perfection from Christian characters because the journey is personal and ongoing, but it would be nice to have character I can depend on when human nature wants to run rampant.
It wasn’t easy listening to Trina’s journey. The depths of her anguish were heartbreaking because her internal battle with forgiveness and acceptance was just as difficult for her as the violence and loss that had dominated her life. But good writing, pacing, and narration enhanced her story to show a relationship with God isn’t a goal or destination but the journey itself.
Enjoy!
March 30, 2020
Scott has closed himself off to the thought of love. He is content with the way his life is going until an accident introduces him to Katrina. Katrina is in an abusive marriage. She accepts her life as it is until the accident causes her to miscarry. Finally finding the courage to leave her husband, she gets attacked putting her in Scott's presence once again. In him, she finds the chance to find real love. She also finds her faith in God again.
I think that this book has a very powerful message. I do have to fully disclose that domestic violence and abuse are referenced in this book. It's not glossed over or glamorized. It's written out as raw and real as domestic violence is. As some people are sensitive to subjects like this, I feel it should be completely put out in the open. It's a very wholesome and religious book. I wonder how personal this book is to the author. This is the second book in a series. If I'm being honest, I liked it a lot better than the first.
There were a few things that I didn't really care for in the book. The biggest thing is that it hit a little more home for me than I'm comfortable with. Anybody who is a victim of domestic violence knows how much sticks with you. Things can go on in life that is completely normal and something triggers a memory of the violence. It's a blow. But I digress. I guess this is more of a compliment to the author than an insult. Being that they captured the triggers very well.
This book was narrated by Terri England. I can't remember if she's the one who narrated the first one or not. She does have a very entrancing southern voice. I can say that much. It's so authentic. I felt like I was legitimately in the world that the story takes place in. I'd love to listen to other books narrated by England. Other than her accent, she also has a very calming tone as well.
I really did enjoy this book. I wouldn't call it a favorite, but it was very deep. I love the powerful messages littered through the entire book. I would suggest that the reader would reflect on the fact that domestic violence, alcoholism, and abuse is reflected in this book. I'm not saying don't read it. I'm saying that if these are sensitive topics, then it would be best not to read it. It is worth the read though. It's a very wholesome read full of hope and love.
I think that this book has a very powerful message. I do have to fully disclose that domestic violence and abuse are referenced in this book. It's not glossed over or glamorized. It's written out as raw and real as domestic violence is. As some people are sensitive to subjects like this, I feel it should be completely put out in the open. It's a very wholesome and religious book. I wonder how personal this book is to the author. This is the second book in a series. If I'm being honest, I liked it a lot better than the first.
There were a few things that I didn't really care for in the book. The biggest thing is that it hit a little more home for me than I'm comfortable with. Anybody who is a victim of domestic violence knows how much sticks with you. Things can go on in life that is completely normal and something triggers a memory of the violence. It's a blow. But I digress. I guess this is more of a compliment to the author than an insult. Being that they captured the triggers very well.
This book was narrated by Terri England. I can't remember if she's the one who narrated the first one or not. She does have a very entrancing southern voice. I can say that much. It's so authentic. I felt like I was legitimately in the world that the story takes place in. I'd love to listen to other books narrated by England. Other than her accent, she also has a very calming tone as well.
I really did enjoy this book. I wouldn't call it a favorite, but it was very deep. I love the powerful messages littered through the entire book. I would suggest that the reader would reflect on the fact that domestic violence, alcoholism, and abuse is reflected in this book. I'm not saying don't read it. I'm saying that if these are sensitive topics, then it would be best not to read it. It is worth the read though. It's a very wholesome read full of hope and love.
November 21, 2019
Tempered Dreams
by Pamela S. Thibodeaux
This is a book about faith and forgiveness. Unfortunately it wasn't practiced all the time. A bit two faced there Scott. The man is an emotional BULLY!!! The romance seemed a bit fast and forced again by Scott. Maybe I just am anti- doctor today, or maybe he isn't quite perfect. Will they get their happily ever after?
This just did not make me feel comfortable. Too bad he couldn't be more "Christian." Then all of a sudden he remembers OH! I was supposed to let God lead instead of trying to do it all myself.
Katrina has lived with abuse both physically and emotionally most of her life. It's understandable she has trust issues. Her faith has eroded and along comes Scott, he seems to be too controlling too. Maybe he was just gruff and not able to communicate what he meant. I don't blame her for the lack of trust.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed by Terri England.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
by Pamela S. Thibodeaux
This is a book about faith and forgiveness. Unfortunately it wasn't practiced all the time. A bit two faced there Scott. The man is an emotional BULLY!!! The romance seemed a bit fast and forced again by Scott. Maybe I just am anti- doctor today, or maybe he isn't quite perfect. Will they get their happily ever after?
This just did not make me feel comfortable. Too bad he couldn't be more "Christian." Then all of a sudden he remembers OH! I was supposed to let God lead instead of trying to do it all myself.
Katrina has lived with abuse both physically and emotionally most of her life. It's understandable she has trust issues. Her faith has eroded and along comes Scott, he seems to be too controlling too. Maybe he was just gruff and not able to communicate what he meant. I don't blame her for the lack of trust.
The narration was well done. The characters were well portrayed by Terri England.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
August 31, 2020
This story deals with abuse, spousal and child abuse. When Scott met Katrina, she had been in an accident with her drunken husband. While her husband is in jail, Katrina decides this is the best chance to get away from her husband and divorce him. Scott finds himself enamored of Katrina and driven to help her and love her. Before Katrina can accept Scott's love, she must learn to not live in the past and accept the love and forgiveness of God. In this story, Scott has his failures, but he represents what God's love & forgiveness is supposed to be like. The narrator is excellent and again brings the emotions and characters to life.
March 11, 2020
Story that is well written of a battered wife, the scars, one doesn’t see. She is starting a new life, and with the Lord’s guidance prayer and a new friend. Learning forgiveness want easy, for it started with a father beating his wife. When injuries take her to the hospital from a serious beating, Scott finds himself draw to this woman of wanting to protect. her. Well written and the narration was good and brought the emotion of the story out.
Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Given audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
January 21, 2020
A strongly Christian story with lots of scriptural references this story is full of hope. With a background of abuse physical and verbal Katrina has reached her breaking point. She makes a decision to basically start anew. With that she also decides to look up, to the Lord. This is her story of redemption and forgiveness with the help of a very special new friend.
I recieved a free Audible copy of this story, at my request, in exchange for a honest review.
I recieved a free Audible copy of this story, at my request, in exchange for a honest review.
September 28, 2020
Such a sweet story of breaking down barriers and finding true love. Using real life struggles that many women face today really brought the story to life. If you are not a victim of abuse, you don't realize the pain and agony one goes through to pull themselves out. Tempered Dreams was so vivid that I could see and feel the struggles. Well done.
October 4, 2015
(request submitted by author for an honest critique)
Pamela's faith is prevalent throughout Scott and Trina's tale. She spoke of God and the scriptures many times over. Also, the difficulty in forgiving others of wrongdoings. Tom (her father) beat her mother and, due to those injuries, her mom passed away. This act of violence was a the truest test of her faith. One, I see, many people failing.
Did she?
Now, I think you already know the answer to that question. What sort of Christian writer would Pam be, what sort of religious woman would Pam be, if she didn't have Trina forgive him? So yes, as you expected, forgiveness was delivered.
With all that said, something nagged at me.
As I mentioned above, this story was all about faith and forgiveness yet Pamela picked and chose when to follow this way of Christian living. I'm speaking in regards to Scott not "turning the other cheek" when Trina was abused by her ex-husband. He asked her to forgive her father when he beat and murdered her mother/his wife but why didn't he when faced with a similar "test"? Seems hypocritical to me.
Practice what you preach!!
www.superkambrook.com
Pamela's faith is prevalent throughout Scott and Trina's tale. She spoke of God and the scriptures many times over. Also, the difficulty in forgiving others of wrongdoings. Tom (her father) beat her mother and, due to those injuries, her mom passed away. This act of violence was a the truest test of her faith. One, I see, many people failing.
Did she?
Now, I think you already know the answer to that question. What sort of Christian writer would Pam be, what sort of religious woman would Pam be, if she didn't have Trina forgive him? So yes, as you expected, forgiveness was delivered.
With all that said, something nagged at me.
As I mentioned above, this story was all about faith and forgiveness yet Pamela picked and chose when to follow this way of Christian living. I'm speaking in regards to Scott not "turning the other cheek" when Trina was abused by her ex-husband. He asked her to forgive her father when he beat and murdered her mother/his wife but why didn't he when faced with a similar "test"? Seems hypocritical to me.
Practice what you preach!!
www.superkambrook.com
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews