quite an emotional read

Chasing a Dream is a historical fiction book set in 1950 in a small mining village in Derbyshire. We are introduced to Stella, who has a dream of becoming a writer. Her family circumstances aren't the best it was always her grandpa who nurtured her dream until his death.

 She meets Will, and her life takes a turn for the better. She finds a mentor in her teacher, and her dream begins to feel like it could be real. A sudden twist of fate shatters her life again. Will is her mainstay until a revelation tests their relationship. Can they weather the storm, and is her dream ever going to become reality?

 I am a massive historical fiction lover, and this book gave me all the feels. The setting and characters took me far away from 2025. I was immersed in the past. Stella is a character who has had so much happen in her life, and I felt for her. I felt like I knew her, and my heart was breaking for her. I found it quite an emotional read.

 Stepping back in time is always a pleasure for me and Alison J. Barley recreated the 1950s so intricately. Along with the setting, the characters felt real, and I felt every emotion with them.

As I read, I attempted to pace myself so I could stay longer in this world, but the storytelling kept me glued to the book, and it was over way too soon. I may have finished the book, but Stella will stay with me for a while yet, I am still thinking about the book long after reading it.

Chasing a Dream

Buy Now