Carousel Dreams

Book excerpt: 4 Stories of Love Spun at Historic Carousels Experience the early history of four iconic carousels that draw together four couples in whirling romances full of music and charm. Sophia’s Hope by Cynthia Hickey 1889 - Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard Sophia Blackwell is living the life of the wealthy, but on the outskirts of total acceptance. Drake Moreland believes her above his station. A misunderstanding between them threatens to shatter their dreams before they’ve begun. The Art of Romance by Patty Smith Hall 1895 - Crescent Park Amusement Park, Riverside, Rhode Island An interview with the artist painting the Crescent Park Carousel is what reporter Thomas West needs. Instead he finds Wells’s daughter, Jane, who is hiding secrets he’s desperate to uncover. Jane must do everything she can to save her ill father’s reputation . . .and her heart. Carousel of Love by Teresa Ives Lilly 1910 - Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania For Tamara Brand, spending the summer at Expedition Park impersonating her wealthy debutante employee seemed like a dream come true until she meets Blake Conner; just a Carnie who runs the carousel. He seems to be the type of man, she would like to get to know better if she weren't pretending to be someone she isn't. But, is Blake who he appears to be? The Carousel Wedding by Susanne Dietze 1922 - Balboa Park, San Diego, California For June Lowell, a secretary at the Natural History Museum, being with scientist Martin Howard is as thrilling as a ride on the carousel by the museum, but a relationship is forbidden by management.