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Dream #1

Ditching the Dream

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Author's Note: I wrote this book as a dare and intended it to be a standalone. It was written with an "ambiguous" ending. I expected to get raked over the coals for this story, but readers wanted more. They wanted to know more about Jack Stevens, they wanted to know what happened afterward... So, then I wrote a book about Jack Stevens (Not In My Wildest Dreams, Book 2 in the Dream Series). Various characters continued to come to life in my head, and before I knew it, I had a 6 book series, each featuring different characters.
Enjoy Book 1.
Thank you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Elizabeth Fairchild (42) is living the seemingly perfect life in Napa California. She married her college sweetheart right out of college and had her first child before her first anniversary. But now that the children are away at college, Elizabeth, who had always been "someone else" (a daughter, a student, a wife, a mother) now doesn't know who she is. She's forgotten what fires her passions.

Her husband is 'wonderful'; provides her with everything she needs and more. She doesn't want a divorce, but she needs to figure out who she is. So, she leaves him a note, and leaves her home and goes to New York City, where she doesn't know anyone. She wants to find a place to live, get a job, and pay her bills. She's never had to do any of that and wonders if that's what she'd been missing in her life.

When Elizabeth talks to her husband, Greg, a few days later he gives her a "hall pass" to 'sow her wild oats.'
She certainly didn't leave her husband to find another man, but Elizabeth soon finds herself involved with two: Jack Stevens and Kevin Parker.

Jack is older. He has heart-stopping good looks, is wildly successful, and is very much in control of everything around him - especially Elizabeth.
Kevin is younger. He is carefree with a heart of gold and loves Elizabeth's moxie.

While Elizabeth's old life still calls to her, she also finds what she needs in New York. But which dream will she choose?

WARNING: This book contains subject material of an adult nature intended for readers over the age of 18.

374 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 11, 2011

122 people are currently reading
1724 people want to read

About the author

Isabelle Peterson

18 books465 followers
Isabelle Peterson is the author of Intoxicating Romances weaving her love of wine and cocktails into steamy, swoonworthy love stories. She’s a Chicago suburban girl living in coastal Connecticut with her husband of more than thirty years. When she's not writing, Isabelle can be found creating a new cocktail or enjoying a favorite one, savoring a good glass of wine, cooking or baking. In fact, if she weren't a creative writer, she'd probably be a bartender or chef somewhere.

You can find Izzy at isabellepeterson.com and all of her links at linktr.ee/izzykpeterson

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer Kyle.
2,614 reviews5,404 followers
October 12, 2013
3.5 Ditching The Dream Stars

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I want to thank Isabelle Peterson, for the opportunity to read her debut novel. There were a couple of things in the story that didn’t work for me. However, the story was very well paced, it kept the level of excitement till the last page.

Elizabeth Fairchild,a forty-two year old mother of three grown children who sets off on a journey of self-discovery in New York City. She leaves her husband of twenty-two years, Greg a goodbye letter.

”For as long as I can remember, all I’ve done is taken care of others- and seldom have I taken care of me. I think I may have forgotten how.”

Elizabeth quickly finds a job, an apartment and two hot guys …Jack and Kevin.

Jack is a very successful former model/businessman who is in his fifties. Kevin is a middle school Spanish teacher who is in his late twenties. As you can see, both men offer something by their friendship, sexual relationships and Elizabeth finds herself torn between three men.

Greg is miserable without his wife and Elizabeth leaving sure gives Greg the wake-up call he needs.

Jack was such a bold, sexy and likable character that I felt the author's attempt to “Mr. Grey him up” was unnecessary.

Perhaps, I’m just tired of imitations of the playroom (CLOSET in this case). I do enjoy BDSM books but for some reason, I found it unfitting for this story and felt it was nothing that I haven’t read before. Although he was definitely my favorite character in the story.

"You're naturally submissive, aren't you?" he asked quietly."

Kevin was an absolute sweetheart. Not only does he speaks Spanish, but also has a southern drawl. He is covered in several tattoos. Although, being honest, “Carpe Diem” has been used in A LOT of stories that I have read.

Elizabeth finds herself with strong feelings for two of these men by the end of the story and she does make a choice.

"And you say you need me, but I don't want to be needed. I need to be wanted."

One scene was a bit awkward for me and not sexy at all…

The story to me was a HFN ending. Reading the author’s webpage, a certain character of this story’s pov is given and it seems that perhaps there will be more of Elizabeth’s story?

Overall, Isabelle Peterson did a good job telling the tale of unhappy woman in her forties looking for herself. I can relate, since yep I have entered my forties and I recently celebrated my sixteenth wedding anniversary.

*ARC, courtesy of the author Isabelle Peterson, in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Skye Turner.
Author 112 books823 followers
October 11, 2013
ARC, provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all... please note, this is not a sweet, clean, one man- one woman, happily ever after romance.
It's real and raw and taboo. It's sexy and immoral by some standards, but wow what a ride.
I loved Ditching the Dream.
I honestly didn't know what I would think when I heard the premise for this book, but I have to say... Isabelle Peterson can weave a captivating web.
Elizabeth is a 40 something year old "perfect wife" in everyone's eyes, but her life is lacking. She takes a risk and leads herself on a WILD ride of self discovery. She makes hard choices, and choices people might not agree with, but the story is one you will become ensnared in and you won't be able to put the book down.
It's a page turner.
Jack is the rich, successful, uninhibited, older man.
Kevin is the young, virile, appealing, country boy.
Greg is the husband who by all accounts took care of his wife but also took her for granted.
These lives are intertwined and this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.
My only complaint is that it just sort of ends... but it will be continued in the next book.
If you can handle it, you WANT to read Ditching the Dream.
I give it 4.75 stars!
Profile Image for Tori.
Author 4 books127 followers
October 18, 2013
I was provided at ARC copy of Ditching the Dream from the author in exchange for an honest review…

Honestly, I really don’t know how to begin. My first response to Isabelle was, "I'm done and I am so broken...I'm crushed...and need more. I connected with this book on so many levels it frightens me! I want to go curl up in the shower and cry."

This book surprised me and totally rocked my world. I was not prepared for my intense connection to Elizabeth and how I felt every emotion of her character. I’m still in a daze. The writing was phenomenal and brilliant.

Elizabeth is a dedicated wife and mother coming to the realization that she doesn’t know who she once her children have grown and moved out. She finds herself feeling empty…just like the beautiful house she lives in. Greg, her husband, is a successful businessman whose marriage to his job is a higher priority than the 20+ year marriage to his wife.

Elizabeth for the first time in her life is breaking free and searching for who she is. Leaving a “Dear John” note for Greg and packing her bags for New York is a pretty big step to take! With an inheritance to help her get settled, she knows she still needs to find a job in the quest to make something of herself. Luck happens to be on her side and she is able to secure a job quickly and moves into the perfect little furnished apartment to call home...for now. Little does she know that between her new job and new home…temptation is unavoidable and she is about to embark on journey she never intended to take!

Kevin, a young Spanish teacher, is her scrumptious neighbor in the building who seems to be around every corner and it is not by coincidence. Jack, is a well-established businessman who is older than Elizabeth and is instantly attracted to her and is determined to figure out why she seems so familiar to him. Both men are battling for a chance with Elizabeth when her plan was NOT to find another man…but to find herself.

Elizabeth quickly learns that sometimes you find yourself through others and what she finds is not at all what she expected! Be prepared for some amazing and off the charts experiences with Kevin and Jack…wow! These two are delicious!!!

I completely connected with this book and Isabelle blew me away! It was a fun, loving, intense and heart wrenching read. I definitely enjoyed the several new cocktails that I have added to my drink list courtesy of Elizabeth’s fine bartending skills. I was overcome with the emotions that wove throughout the story. I smiled, laughed, cried and cursed. This was a book that will absorb you and it isn’t one that you can put down. It will consume your every thought and emotion and it will leave you wanting more.

I don’t know how to address the ending. Is it a HEA? Honestly, that depends on how you look at it. It truly is a journey!!

There is more to this story and I for one cannot wait for the rest! Isabelle’s debut book has totally made it to the top of my list of favorites; it has left an imprint on my heart and soul. I am still processing the story and I think I always will…it will forever live in my mind!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
177 reviews2 followers
September 16, 2013
*Copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

I love reading romance books and living in the fantasy world through my books. Taking my mind off of life and just relaxing and enjoying my reading world.

BUT, this book...I didn't have have to live through the fantasy...I was able to totally relate to this book. Being married for 12 years and having 2 children, made it pretty easy to relate to it. If you are married or have been married and have children...you will probably be able to relate to this book as well.

You will understand why she feels the way she does, you will understand what she does and why she does, you can even understand the cheating...yes I said it...understand the cheating...but was it really cheating??? Well I guess you will have to read to find out and see if you agree.

I don't like writing about what happens in a book, I think the description does that for you. I like to write my feelings and how it effected me. I went through all the emotions with our character Elizabeth, I felt each one she felt...sadness, loneliness, helpless, frustrated, excited, sorrow, selfishness, desire and freedom.

I also loved the way this book was written, it didn't have a whinny heroin, the men where HOT, the story was interesting and just good. It didn't drag!!! Kept my interest the entire time and not once did I get bored.

I adored Ditching The Dream and I absolutely adore Isabelle Peterson. I have a feeling you will too!

Ditching The Dream (Dream Series, #1) by Isabelle Peterson
Ditching The Dream
Profile Image for Books&Dreams.
575 reviews
October 14, 2013
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review.
5 wonderful, powerful, "YOU GO GIRL" stars!!!!

WOW! Honestly when I started reading this book, I was a little scared, I was unsure how it was going to go. I hate leaving bad reviews. And that being said. I loved this book, I have read only one other book that has effected my life. BUT this one would now be the second, it grabbed a hold of me and I was unable to put it down. It related to everything in my life. It was kind of very scary. All accept when she got on a plane and headed to New York to find out who SHE really was.

Elizabeth is in a marriage of 20 some years, and she is unhappy, she is not abused or mistreated, but she is ignored and taken for granted, and sometimes that is just as bad. She finally makes up her mind, and I am sure it was a very hard decision to make. With three kids grown and in college what does she have left? A husband who is rarely home and when he is all he really expects from her is a clean house and supper. Where are the emotions, the love? It is very sad and I feel for her right away.

Things get a little crazy once she lands in New York, she gets a job, gets an apartment AND she gets TWO men pining after her. Damn I wish this would happen to me. But I guess I would have to leave the house then lol.

Jack. Oh Jack. He is an older man a beautiful gorgeous older man that shows "Beth" how it feels to be wanted. Not needed to clean, cook and run errands but really truly wanted for her mind, her body, and her soul.

Kevin. Can you say yummy!! He is 29 years old to her 43 and the chemistry between these two is off the charts. And Kevin lets "Lizzie" take charge, and boy does she need that.

At first I felt like damn she is a slut, and I am sure she felt that way too, but as the story went on I started to realize that i probably would have been the same way.

This story just sort of ends and you have to read the next book ( not released yet) in order to see what happens. I don't really like that but I am not a person who wants to wait for anything.

All in all I loved this book, it was so well written. And I felt like I was really reading about a person named Elizabeth, she is a wonderful person and a beautiful person, and has so much to give, and shame on her husband for neglecting her.

So I say thank you to Isabelle for writing this story.. I shall have a little sleep now that I am done with it. But can't say you didn't warn me. I cannot wait until the next book!! <3 THE END
Profile Image for Isabelle Peterson.
Author 18 books465 followers
January 23, 2015
What can I say... I do love this book. I wrote it.

I took a sentiment that I've heard from hundreds of married mothers the world over.

Sometimes, you just get fed up with all of it, and have no idea who you are anymore after tending to home and hubby and kids...And you don't want to keep pretending that things are fine...
And at some point you wonder - What would happen if I just left?





So, why not write out the fantasy? And yes - this is a fantasy... not a biography.

There are 4 more books in this connected series... but book 2, just like book 1 isn't headed where I'd planned. I hope you'll enjoy book 2 when it's released in late January/early February (or, at least that's the plan for now)

UPDATE: There will be a total of 6 books in the series... as of today - 4 have been released:
Ditching the Dream (Elizabeth)
Not in My Wildest Dreams (Jack)
Chasing the Dream (Phoebe)
Unexpected Dreams (Greg)

Coming soon:
Scared to Dream (working title) (Kevin)
Dare to Dream (Finale - everyone PLUS Bradley & Carter)

Profile Image for Jamie.
89 reviews
November 24, 2013

I was an extremely lucky recipient of an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is the unbelievably delicious and captivating debut novel of Isabelle Peterson. From the very first page of the Prologue, Elizabeth's story captivated me. I was in awe of her courage to actually run away to find herself. With each giant leap of faith that she took, my heart leapt into my throat and I held my breath to see where she landed.

Each page of this engaging book had me on the edge of my seat with anticipation. I felt as if I was bouncing from one side of the fence to the other because I wanted to root for Kevin, and then for Jack, and then for Kevin, and then back to Jack. I felt Liz's excitement at the attention and attraction with these men. I felt pride for her as she grew into herself.

At the end of some of the chapters, you are given a little insight into one of the men in Liz's life and the situation as they see it. I really looked forward to these little snippets of thought and tried to envision how they saw things happening.

I would recommend this book - and I have - to all of my friends and fellow readers. If you enjoy an engaging, exciting, and VERY HOT read, you will not be disappointed!!! I have been very lucky and have had the opportunity to discuss my thoughts with the author and she is just as amazing as her characters. I cannot wait for the future books that she has hinted at.

For a full review, please visit http://journeyintopureimagination.blo...
Profile Image for Brittany Alexander.
577 reviews21 followers
October 29, 2013
this is a smoking hot read! Isabelle graciously gifted me this copy and I'm so happy!
Elizabeth runs away from her husband to go to new York to find herself. instead she finds two gorgeous men and ends up having relations with both of them. Elizabeth has to make a decision. stay with her husband or choose one of the new guys.
this steamy read is for readers 18+. ladies, you'll enjoy this one. have your husbands or B.O.B's ready!
thank you again, Isabelle for letting me read this! I loved it so much!!
Profile Image for A.L..
Author 4 books315 followers
September 30, 2013
4.5 Stars

When I was a little girl, I had a dream of getting married to a wonderful man, having that perfect house with a white picket fence, two maybe three kids, and the dog was optional.

Elizabeth Fairchild was living that dream life. Except it wasn't what it was cracked up to be. After twenty some years married to Greg and an empty-nester, Elizabeth made the bold decision to find herself.

I had the wonderful privilege of reading this book before its release. What does this mean? I had to buddy read with the Author. Isabelle Peterson is the bomb. Awesomeause. Fantabulous. And a great person to read with!

Back to the story.

Elizabeth doesn't just cut her hair and work out -- yeah she does these things too--She jumps on a plane and flies across the country to start fresh. She doesn't know how long she'll be gone. It was something she just had to do. She needed to learn how to stand on her own two feet. She needed to be independent.

In the process she meets two men that will forever change her. These men couldn't be more opposite. In fact, they were also very different from her husband, Greg as well. Each one, though, helped her find a part of herself that was yet to be discovered. She found her confidence, her voice, and her...

I laughed. I sniffled. I thought my eyes were going to pop out of my head. I fanned myself. I paced. I wondered. I thought. What would I do? How would I react?

I sent Isabelle several messages as I was reading. The most eloquent of them all was: OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG

I'm an author and I have a way with words.

As Elizabeth (aka. Bets, Beth, Lizzie) travails through her self-discovery, who will she chose to be with? Team Kevin? Team Jack? or Team Greg. Will she go back to Napa or stay in New York?

I thought I knew what team I was on, but I quickly learned that I was wrong. I won't tell you how it ends except that she did what she had to do.

I love books that make me think, question what I would do in a similar situation, and make me wonder what choice I would make and why.

Ditching The Dream is that kind of book.

Well written, steamy, fun, and quick paced, Ditching The Dream is a book that will leave you asking the question, what would I do?

"The grass is always greener where you water it."









Profile Image for AngelinaT.
634 reviews24 followers
December 11, 2013
AMAZING! BRILLIANT! ORIGINAL! I was eagerly waiting for the release of this book and it did not disappoint. I don't know where to begin. I loved the fact that the main character was in her 40s and I think sooo many women can relate to this story. Whether you are a happily married, divorced, or single woman you will be able to relate. Everyone dreams of just running away at one point or another to start over and wonders what if....
Elizabeth leaves her life behind and runs to NYC to see if she can stand on her own two feet and start living. She has always put everyone's needs before hers and didn't know who "she" was. In NYC she discovers herself and starts making a life for herself.
I felt a little for Greg but at the same time he made me frustrated at times...he just didn't get it! I loved Kevin but oh how I loooooooooved Jack!!! I felt for Elizabeth too and I wanted her to find happiness.
I don't want to give anything away but I dreamed of a different ending for Elizabeth/Beth. I can't wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for The After Dark Divas.
27 reviews19 followers
September 20, 2013
**ARC provided by Author for review**

Holy amazeballs I loved this book. Ditching the Dream was such a refreshing change from a lot of the books I have read. It is so nice to have a female lead that is well educated and mature.

I know there are a lot of women out there that can totally relate to Elizabeth. She married young and was never given the opportunity to find herself and at 43 she is taking a stand and leaving the life she has known for the past 22 years. I love how she figures out a little more about herself and what she needs from Kevin and Jack.

With this being Isabelle's first book, I think she did an amazing job and she earned some brownie points by mentioning my favorite Brit, David Gandy. There were some 50 shades inspired events, but in my opinion they were executed better then EL James.

I can't wait to see what else transpires with Elizabeth's story!

~Diva Veronica
Profile Image for Laura Helder.
36 reviews
October 1, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Ditching the Dream is a story that most women can relate to. Whether you are completely happy in your current relationship or not, everyone feels like running away to start over at one time or another.

This story is mainly told by Elizabeth. It follows her and the journey she takes to find herself. When she starts out she just wants to be able to live on her own, have a job and see if she can really do it on her own terms.

What Elizabeth finds through her journey is so much more than having a job to be able to pay rent. Her journey is one of self discovery, not only found by herself but by the two men she meets while in New York.

These two men are different yet the same in how they make Elizabeth feel about herself. One is older, established and a dom. The other, younger, care-free and lets her take control.

Through her encounters with these men, Elizabeth is able to realize what she has been missing, what she really wants out of a relationship and how she should be treated.

This story was very well written and at times I wasn't sure what path Elizabeth would choose, I couldn't read it fast enough! Did she stay in New York or did she go home?
I really enjoyed the male POV's at the end of most chapters. I looked forward to seeing what they were thinking about Elizabeth. Several chapters had her interacting with more than one of the male characters so it was always interesting to see which POV the author chose.

Ditching the Dream is Ms. Peterson's debut novel. What a fantastic start to her writing career!
I gave this story 5/5 stars for creativity, storyline and giving us characters that are relateable! I am really looking forward to book 2 in this series!
Profile Image for Peta Benjamin.
742 reviews25 followers
October 17, 2013
How great to read a book that involved a forty-two year old woman who has come to a cross-road in her life. Leaving her husband of twenty-three years to try to find herself after a life of looking after her children and husband and finally realising that she no longer knew who she was. A very brave thing to do. After arriving in New York City, finding a job and place to live, Elizabeth meets the gorgeous young Kevin and older sexy Jack, two very different men. The relationships Elizabeth forms between these two guys is steamy and full on. After about three weeks Elizabeth finds herself questioning whether she has done the right thing by leaving her husband Greg and finally makes her decision on where she should be based on guilt. This was a great read and I am looking forward to reading Jack's POV in the next book and maybe finding out whether Elizabeth changes her mind about her decision. Recommend it to all.
Profile Image for Becky.
19 reviews
October 23, 2013
I officially have a book hangover from hell! I firmly believe that all married women (with or without children) will identify with Elizabeth's story. Elizabeth is in her early 40's, married with college-age children and one day she finds that she doesn't know who she is anymore. Sound familiar? Thought so. Elizabeth heads off on a journey to find herself again after 20+ years married to a man that she loves but is not so sure she is in love with anymore. This journey leads her to NYC where she meets two very different men that very quickly become a necessary part of her transformation. I refuse to say too much about what actually happens in the story because you NEED to read it to feel it.

The story is relatable, gut-wrenching, hilarious and hot as hell. What else can you ask for? The only drawback was that the ending was cliffhanger-ish (in my opinion). That said, I wouldn't have let that stop me from hopping on this train.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
155 reviews10 followers
November 14, 2013
I really loved the basis of this book. You have a unhappily married woman who wants to know who she is or could be for that matter. So she leaves everything she has ever known to go to New York city to find herself. But she ends up finding 2 incredible men whom don't take advantage of her the way her husband did for more than twenty years. And whoa!!! HOT sex scenes!!!!!!
I fell in love with both Jack & Kevin. I was torn as whom she should choose when she was with each of them. But then there was Greg. Her husband of twenty plus years, father of her 3 children. It's hard to throw that much away without trying to work it out. I was surprised by her choice but not at the same time. You'll have to read it to find out.
However there is more to come. We still have Phoebes (Elizabeths daughter) story but also a surprise bonus link at the end for a glimpse into "someone's" thoughts of the last chapter. It will have your mind reeling!!
A great read!!
Profile Image for Abbie D..
163 reviews32 followers
September 10, 2016
I finished this book hours ago but it finally took me until now to DE-FOG my iPad!! This book produced so much steam I thought I would never see straight again!


First, Elizabeth's character is in her 40's, at first, I though, huh that's different. But I kept reading and reading some more and discovered there were so many ages whirling around and I LIKED it! Ages were different from what I'm used to and I am glad this was written the way it was.
Second, NYC is the back drop, it's exciting and I had a lot of anticipation (but not just because of the location).
Third, the grammer was great! I had to point this out because I have been reading a lot of books where I noticed a lot of grammar errors.
Fourth, the dynamic in itself was unique, without giving spoilers, but there were ADDED surprises within this story that put me out of my comfort zone. Ya know what I learned? It is NICE being out of my comfort zone in this case!
Lastly, the characters were well written and the ending left me breathless (ok fine not literally) and I am about to go harass this author for her sequel release date!
P.s. Her website is super cool. Lots of amazing visuals that helped me connect with the book that much more!
Profile Image for TreLyn Cecile.
Author 1 book6 followers
October 28, 2013
This was a really good book. I liked how it ended but at the same time I hate how it ended cause I wanted to know what happens. But of course that is the point of a good book. To keep you pulled in and this book will definitely keep your attention. I actually felt sorry for Greg to a degree because he was lost without Beth but he also didn't cherish what he had. At the end I felt sorry for Jack because he was losing her. I felt sorry for Kevin because he simply fell for her but I also felt for her being torn between her feelings for them. This is a book you will want to read and I can't wait for the next part.
Profile Image for Jade.
17 reviews68 followers
September 16, 2013
As soon as I started to read this book I instantly fell in love with Elizabeth. I was so happy she 'Ditched the Dream' to find herself. I hated the way Greg treated her he took her for granted. She meets Kevin and Jack and damn theres some hot sex scenes. I absolutely love Kevin (the cub) hes my perfect guy... I couldn't put this down and even read it a second time. Isabelle is an extremely talented writer. I cant wait for the next instalment in the 'Dream Series'Thank you Izzy for sharing thi with me. <3
Profile Image for Jennifer Gauthier.
441 reviews27 followers
December 22, 2013
Loved this book, hope the second will continue with Elizabeth's story. Thought it was well written, HOT sex!!!! Enjoyed the story. Just was wishing for a different ending, which is why I hope it continues in the next book. It just can't be over yet.
Profile Image for Keiana.
23 reviews2 followers
December 27, 2013
Loved the book....so when is book # 2 coming out? Can't wait to find out what happens with Jack and Elizabeth! Personally I don't think she should have gone back to her husband. Her heart was not in it, anyone could clearly see that her heart was with Jack. We shall see what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Barbara Salard.
17 reviews
November 8, 2013
OK first off lets start by saying this book does contain cheating IF you consider that her husband tells her to go sow her wild oats. Really!! Yeah, he did!! Elizabeth (42 years old)and Greg Fairbanks have been married for 22 years and have three grown children in college. Greg is a workaholic who puts his work before his wife and family. He is not abusive and doesnt cheat but he does take Elizabeth for granted.

My Greg



Elizabeth has been unhappy in her marriage for years and decides to leave Greg and moves to New York (after leaving him a Dear John letter). She tells him she needs to do this to see if she can make it own her own and "find" herself since she married young, right out of college and she didnt get to really experience life. Greg assumes that she must have left him for another man since in her letter she she states that she still loves him. He tells her to go sow her wild oats if that is what she needs and then come back to him. He basically tells her to do this since she didnt really sexually experiment before she got married. She didnt intend on being with another man but then she meets not one man but two hot as hell men. This is when the fun begins for Elizabeth. Jack is 10 years older than her, a former model (so that should tell you how hot he is). He is gorgeous, rich, owns his own modeling company and is very dominate (he has a secret closet full of toys in his guest bedroom.

My Jack




Kevin (her new neighbor) is 14 years younger. He is a tall, sweet, hot as hell guy with tats who just adores her.

My Kevin



She is attacted to both men and cant decide who she wants to be with. Well, why choose when you can have both!!! And that is what she does. The book is called Ditching The Dream but at this point of the book I'm thinking it should have been called Living The Dream cause she basically is living the fantasy/dream of alot of women in America!!!

I loved how all three men were totally opposite of each other. Greg really had no clue she was unhappy and thought he was being the husband that she wanted. Kevin was the young, playful, sweetheart who made her feel young again. Jack was the one who was just mesmerized by her and really enjoyed some of the same things she did. He knew he had to have her since she was unlike any woman he had been with and he didnt want to share!!! There were parts of the book where I was like REALLY!!! Did she just really do that and then do that the next day and then do THAT the next!! Whew!! Then I was like you go girl!!! Like I said Living the Dream!! I really thought that towards the end she was going to wake up and it was all going to be a dream and she just fell asleep while reading one of her "mommy porn" books. But, no it was all real!!

Overall this was a very entertaining read. I will say I was NOT happy with the ending. It's not a cliffhanger but it just didnt end the way I wanted but, hey this book is not about me!!! I guess she had to do what what she thought was right for her. There is another book coming out so maybe (fingers crossed) it will go my way!! Oh, BTW I loved the references to Christian Gray, Gideon Cross, and even David Gandy. I also loved how all the men in her life had their own nicknames for her (Bets, Beth, & Lizzie). I would definitely recommend this book to all my friends who also like to read their "mommy porn"!!!! Team Jack?? Team Kevin?? Team Greg?? or Team Elizabeth??

My Elizabeth



"The grass is always greener where you water it."


Profile Image for Badass Lioness.
375 reviews13 followers
May 14, 2015
After 23 years of marriage, Elizabeth decides to ditch the dream and see if she can make it on her own in NYC. Then she meets sexy Kevin, 10 years younger and a very romantic schoolteacher, and Jack AKA "Jackass Jack", from her past and 10 years older, a former male model with his own very successful business and a penchant for bdsm. From her affairs to her husband, Greg, giving her permission to 'sow her wild oats', she has to figure out what she wants and needs.

I enjoyed her dilemma... hmmm which hottie should she choose?! There was more to the story than just the smoking hot, sexy scenes as she comes to terms with who she is after being defined as a wife and mother for so long. It's her midlife crisis turned midlife exploration. The ending threw me. It was a "Wait, what?" ending. I have been reassured that there is more. Phew! Kevin and Jack make great book boyfriends!!
Profile Image for Tiffany Deblois.
64 reviews4 followers
October 25, 2013
Loved this book. I couldn't put it down. Elizabeth is a gutsy and strong heroine. She makes bold moves and owns her decisions. I loved that about her. I loved the men in this book too. Gregg - the husband - clueless and seemed a little dull but I really felt bad for him. He was blindsided by his wife abrupt departure. Kevin - the cub - smart, sweet and so hot! Jack - the older man - commanding and confident, also hot. I was all over the place with my hopes on who she would end up with. The story took my emotions for a ride. It was sexy, funny and heartbreaking. At times I wanted to cry and at times I was laughing but I was always Elizabeth's biggest cheerleader. I would highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Steph.
152 reviews2 followers
October 24, 2013
This is an amazing read - the story of a woman, Elizabeth, who married right out of college and gave everything to her family. Now that her children are all out of the house, she finds that she has lost herself somewhere along the way. Her incredible journey to find inner strength and find herself was the focus of this book. The story is hot and steamy - that makes it a fun read, but what is more intense is her self reflection and growth. "The grass is always greener where you water it" has stuck with me since finishing the book. What she was feeling really hit home for me and I hope that I can learn and grow from her experiences. If you have been married a while and wonder what is out there, this book will cause you pause. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Victoria Debono.
93 reviews5 followers
December 9, 2013
Ditching The Dream had me in a whole other world. It had me captivated from beginning to end. I couldn't help but think, go home it's too hard. She was a very brave woman, who found herself in a difficult situation that I'm sure was so much more than she ever wished for. I lived through Elizabeth, what a fantasy it was. To want to find yourself and move away from everything you know. I couldn't help but feel, What a lucky bitch. The dream totally freaked me out, I thought the story was going to go somewhere I wasn't ready for, thank goodness it was just a Hot dream. Thank you Isabelle I loved your story and I look forward to more of your books. Five bright stars
Victoria Ann DeBono
Profile Image for Shannon Vogt.
103 reviews
December 5, 2013
I loved this book.The story line was very good and keep me into the book. While I loved all the characters, I have to say my favorite is Jack.I just love a Alpha Male and he sure is a good one . I enjoyed reading this book and going through the journey with Elizabeth. I can't wait for the next book..I definitely want more..
Profile Image for Rachel Hill.
854 reviews36 followers
August 6, 2016
Ditching the Dream was AWESOME...I gave it 5 Stars and would highly recommend it! I didn't read another book for 2 days and believe me, that's a record. I always have my kindle in hand! Isabelle Peterson wrote a fantastic novel with superbly well thought out characters! I love 42 year old Elizabeth, with her gutsy impulsive move! I mean really, I've been married for 18 years, and even though I love my husband there are days when I think...what did I do? Could I be happier? What would it take to make me happier? Well, she did something about it. She up and moved to New York City, cut her hair~her husband was the one that wanted it long~ found herself the perfect apartment, and got a job tending bar at a ritzy restaurant, all amidst phone calls and texts from all of her family wondering WTH???!
Then she meets Jack..The uber handsome, ex Guess and Drakkar model, dominant, utterly do-able Jackass Jack. Here's a snippet:

His eyes were darker, and not just because we were sitting in a dark cab. There was something predatory and hungry in them. Not in a way that left me fearful, but in a way that had me yearning.

Yum!!! But, hold on there, it's not just Jack that Elizabeth meets, there's also Mr. Country Western, Kevin Parker~middle school teacher, and younger than Elizabeth, in an Elevator Scene no less..

Suddenly my mind was flooded with elevator scenes in the popular mommy porn we'd been reading in book club. Christian Grey and Gideon Cross and Jesse Ward with their sultry elevator manners...

Oh and steamy...Ditching the Dream has it all..

"Please...please..."
"Ask for it, Liz. Tell me what you want. Tell me what pleases you." He took my nipple with his teeth and I was sure I was going to die. My insides coiled so tightly. I was nearing the top of a mountain, breathless. I couldn't talk. But I needed his touch.
"Touch me, please!" I blurted.
I felt him smile on my breast, as his hand came up to m y belly and slipped into my panties. When his fingers brushed against my clit, I nearly shot off the bed.
I was struggling to get my breathing under control when he slipped a finger into my folds.
"So wet..." he muttered at my breast...and now you have to read it for yourself, cuz it gets even HOTTER!!!

Seriously though...The characters are amazing as is the writing itself. I devoured this book, I literally didn't want to stop reading it! But What the HELL Isabelle, the end...REALLY??? Oh GAHHH, so not what I would have done :) Can't wait for book two!



Profile Image for For the Love of Books.
755 reviews28 followers
January 6, 2014
5 Star review for this amazing book. This book is for all the women who think that you can never start over and be happy! Isabelle Peterson got me out of my funk of sad stories and gave me a book that spoke to my heart!! Everyone should be happy and be made to feel appreciated. This a book that every wife, girlfriend anyone in a relationship should have there significant other read. This book is written beautifully once i picked it up I could not stop. Read it in one sitting!! Elizabeth does what most of us have thought about once or twice in our life and when she sets out on this adventure she doesn't meet one but two amazing men I don't want to say what happens! I definitely need a jack in my life!! I can use a Kevin to forget it can i wrap them in one I would be in heaven!! This book doesn't have one swoon worthy man but two who could ask for more!! This is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year <3

~Raquel~
142 reviews1 follower
December 19, 2013
Ditching the Dream

This was a book I could not put down. I could not wait to see which of the three guys she chose!! Personally, I would have made a different decision, but I cannot deny that this is a fantastic story, and very well written. Kudos to the author, Isabelle Peterson. Can't wait for the next book in the Dream Series.
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