Ship of Dreams

by Kelsey Painter

Sybil Chambers wanted a settled life.

She had a steady income and a roof over her head working as a lady’s maid for an earl’s daughter. It was exactly what she sought, especially after the uncertainty she faced when her parents died. She earned this coveted position while processing her loss, and she loved the work. Even if it meant putting up with Lady Iris's cruel husband.

And she hasn’t thought about her childhood best friend, Charles Percy, in years.

Charles Percy wanted freedom.

He got it at the age of sixteen through a sailing apprenticeship, when he was finally able to leave his family farm and all of Yorkshire behind. Unfortunately, that included Sybil. After spending their entire childhood together, he didn't want to leave her. But the pull of the sea was too strong.

After six years, he became an officer for White Star Line, sailing the greatest steam ships all over the world. Nothing could tie him down. He never expected over a decade to pass before he saw her—or his home.

When they finally see each other again, it’s on the most famous ship in history, the RMS Titanic. Can they pick up where they left off all those years ago, before the ship meets its fate?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Romance

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 10, 2024

Reviews

[Céloise · Rating 4 out of 5]

☆4 Upstairs-Downstairs romance on the Titanic with an ACTUAL happy ending. 🌊 💃🏻 🕺🏻🛥️ 🧊

No half-assed flotation device for these two, thanks. 💅

Qualms:
Sybil, don’t go down there. I SAID DON’T GO DOWN THERE. 🤦🏻‍♀️
Charles. You didn’t seriously just let her go down there.

Otherwise very enjoyable blue collar second chance historical romance. Looking forward to Lady Iris’s story, she’s awesome.

➳❦ He didn’t want to waste a moment by looking elsewhere. He’d seen the ocean countless times. Sybil was the view.

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have always been fascinated with history of the Titanic so when I received the ARC for Ship of Dreams, I started reading immediately. This book, this story, it brought tears to my eyes. I love a book with strong female characters and this one definitely doesn’t disappoint. The story of Sybil and Charles is one you won’t want to put down. I was kicking my feet, laughing, screaming, crying. Kelsey did an amazing job at keeping true to Titanic’s history and tragic losses while also presenting a truly beautiful and compelling love story.

[Kate Hults · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this book at a local book fair in Charlotte, NC and I am so glad I did! Choosing a book about The Titanic comes with a guaranteed outcome. It also comes with a movie that everyone and their mother thinks of when they hear that ship’s name. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the unique story, the unexpected turns, and a book that I couldn’t put down! I can't wait to read another book by this local author.

[Stephanie Lopes · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Release date 4/10/24

This book was truly a joy to read and warm (despite the chilling tragedy involved that we are all familiar with).
The book follows Sybil and her life as a lady’s maid to Lady Iris and how it leads her to board the fated ship and have Charles back in her life. It has the right mix of history with people who were actually aboard the Titanic, as well as the fiction element with Sybil, Iris and Charles.

Sybil is a great MC and she is relatable, having gone through her share of hardship, heartbreak and happiness.

I don’t want to give too much away with Charles and Sybil together but I will say that I loved how Charles was with her and how committed he was to his choices in life. He has good depth of character and is a perfect match for Sybil. They had there little spicy moments and I absolutely loved how Kelsey was able to give an adult love scene without being super descriptive or give me the ick. They were tasteful and naughty and I appreciate that so much!

Although this story is about second chances and romance - my favorite part of it was the friendship between Sybil and Lady Iris. Sybil knew her role as a lady’s maid but kept Lady Iris in her heart as a true friend and it was great to see how they complimented each other both in normal life and on the ship.

The entire story was well rounded and had great pacing. I look forward to reading more about Lady Iris and maybe an update on Sybil and Charles!

If you like historical romance, second chance stories or the titanic, then you will really enjoy Sybil and Charles’s story! Thank you Kelsey for the opportunity to read this before release! ❤️

[Rachelle Ziaja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for selecting me to be an ARC reader. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Wow. Wow. WOW. An easy 5 star read! This story was my most anticipated read for 2024 so far and it exceeded all expectations. Being a 90s child, anything Titanic related calls to me. I think it’s an obligation for us to be hyper fixated on it. Kelsey did such a great job bringing this story to life. Sybil and Charles may have Jack and Rose beat as my favorite couple. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope of mine and this is a perfect example of it. Their love for one another drove this story and kept me going even throughout all the sinking anxiety. (Did anyone else only watch the first VHS tape as a child and refuse to watch tape 2? iykyk) Kelsey did such a great job capturing Titanic, its historical figures, the devastation surrounding it, and the hope. I felt as if I was watching the movie while reading it - in the best way! Even knowing the Titanic sinks, I was still nervous reading it not knowing the outcomes of the characters. Trust me, keep reading! I loved everything about this and am already looking forward to Lady Iris’s story next!

[Lauren Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I absolutely loved this.

First, thank you Kelsey for the ARC!

I think, unlike most who picked this up, I wasn’t a huge Titanic fan growing up, the romance just never felt real enough to me. This though? Far surpassed my expectations. The romance between Sybil and Charles was real and beautiful. It gave whirlwind romance without any annoying tropes, and their history together was beautifully woven in.

Even though we all know what ultimately happens to Titanic, I think Kelsey did an amazing job of telling it in a way that didn’t feel overdone or rehashed. I was anxious the entire time and loved every minute.

Iris and Sybil’s relationship was so well done, I love some strong female main characters. I can’t wait to find out what happens to Iris after!

Overall, Kelsey’s writing just gets better and better and I’m so excited to see what she puts out next.

[wildforbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fantastic read! Painter managed to weave a unique & gripping storyline into the behemoth that is the Titanic. All the while honoring the historical significance of the past. I couldn’t put this book down!

Unexpectedly reuniting on the Titanic, separated childhood friends Sybil & Charles make the most of their spare time together. These two have one of the sweetest love stories I’ve ever read. They’re playful & have such fun banter, but still deeply respectful of each other. Reading their journey to each other between their youth & ultimately into adulthood was a treasure.

Without giving much away, there’s a side plot that keeps you on your toes (I’m not talking about the ship) where we meet Lady Iris. I adored the friendship between Sybil & Iris & I need to see more of it! Can we get more of their shenanigans because there’s a prank they pull that had me cackling.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you know me, you know l've been obsessed with Titanic since I was a little girl. This was no exception. I loved this.
It took me a while to read, but in a way I'm glad I savored it.
There's so much love woven throughout. Love in all forms.
There's a pretty ghastly villain that can give Cal Hockley (from the movie) a run for his money. There's so much suspense built into the dramatic irony from the very beginning. I absolutely loved that this followed a member of the Titanic crew! It's not a version of the story that's often highlighted. To avoid spoilers, the only thing I'll say about the end is that it wasn't what I anticipated. I really enjoyed this one.

[Roxanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fantastic historical fiction about the Titanic was spectacular. A second chance romance with dual pov’s, a character you absolutely love to LOATHE (I’m looking at you, Lewis), and strong female friendships. I utterly adore Charles! The dynamic of the relationship between him and Sybil was great, kept me on my toes and rooting for them. Clearly, I know how it ended for the Titanic, but once they struck the iceberg I was STRESSED for Sybil, Charles, and Iris. Looking forward to book 2!

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️

Thanks to Kelsey Painter for the advance copy!

I love the concept of a historical romance set during the disaster of the Titanic, and this did not disappoint.

It has very Downton Abbey vibes, while also portraying the sinking of the Titanic in a very real way.

My only real criticism is I felt the book could be longer. I think it was tough to strike a balance between developing the romance and incorporating the disaster into the story. While the author did a really great job of this, I felt the romance could have been fleshed out a little more. It just seemed very abrupt.

That being said, this book was super enjoyable. I was on the edge of my seat and I didn’t know whether the couple would have a happy ending or not.

I definitely recommend, and I can’t wait to read Lady Iris’ story!

[Mary Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘮 𝘸𝘢𝘴, 𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘎𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘴.”

A romance aboard Titanic, you say? I promise you it does not end as tragically as Rose and Jack.

This book was fast paced, but not rushed. I loved the relationship between Sybil and Lady Iris. Women supporting women is always something that warms me from the inside out, and they are so dedicated to one another. And Charles Percy? He is a DREAM. His love for Sybil is so complete and pure. I couldn’t get enough of them. I loved this book. You should 1000% read it, and then immediately read the sequel, Lady Iris’s Lover because her story is phenomenal as well.

“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳?”
“𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘶𝘴.”

[Brianna Melick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, I want to thank Kelsey Painter, the author, for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book.

When it comes to the story of the Titanic, I, Like many others, find myself enraptured by the story of Titanic and the romance of the ocean liner, but also cognizant of the tragedy of the ship's story. I, like the author enjoy learning about the story and the people who lived and died during its tragedy. When reading the book thought she respected the facts of the story while creating a beautiful love story between two characters. Following Sybil, who grows up in the Yorkshire countryside and works as a lady's maid to Iris an English woman who is married to a wealthy American man who saved her family from ruin. She is dedicated to Iris and helps her in her choice to remain childless, by acquiring the herbs needed. With this addition, I find she handles a true part of women's history in a manner that is respectful and done very well. Iris and Sybil create an incredibly strong bond together that is easy to see happen between people in that situation. These two work together to handle the extreme behaviors of Lewis, the American husband of Iris who is very demanding of her having children.

When the three embark on a trip to America, via the Titanic. As readers who know the story, we already know that the story ends in tragedy, but it is still difficult to think of that as Sybil runs into her childhood friend who she's always harbored feelings for. The reunion between the two had me literally kicking my feet giggling while eating lunch at work. I mean who wouldn't want to be picked up and spun around by a handsome man in an officer uniform? Sign me up. These two pick up almost exactly where they drop off and all at the encouragement of Iris. The romance is dripping off these characters and while I felt at some times it was slightly rushed, I still enjoyed every single minute of it. When an altercation between Sybil and Lewis goes haywire, Charles is the first to step up and demand he unhands her, "Get. Your. Hands. Off. Her." I'm sorry, it's very warm in here. The intense romantic scenes of these two are very similar to Rose and Jack's scenes from the movie and they lead to some pretty swoon-worthy moments that I will let you read.

The tragedy of the sinking was handled incredibly well by the characters like Molly Brown who demands that her way goes during the rescue of survivors after the sinking. Charles and Murdoch work in tandem to get the women and children onto the vessels and he is trying to focus on the task at hand while worrying for Sybil and hoping she gets on the ship. It made you think of the difficulty of the situation and the confusion of all these people trying to survive. From the jump to the frigid water that Sybil and Charles are in for hours, it brings into mind the intense need for survival. The desperation of Charles needing Sybil to survive tugs on the heartstrings and keeps you thinking that there is a chance she won't survive. When she wakes up, the reunion is just so romantic, "I need you, Giggles." Holy crap, insert the tears and me trying not to wake up my sleeping boyfriend. I hope that everyone who reads this book enjoys the story and the romance while also acknowledging the truth to the story and the desperate survival that goes along with the fiction.

[Dibbers Dob · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who was super hyper fixated on Titanic-learning everything about it, White Star Line, the people on the ship, what could have been different, etc- who saw Titanic in theaters 11 times and bought the two VHS set at midnight the night it came out, I have to say I was a little 😉 excited about this book. I love romance, I’m obsessed with Titanic. I waited and watched for the Arc, hoping for it, and then it arrived!
With the gushing over, let’s get onto the review. I’ll start with a little disclaimer, I’m not huge on friends to lovers. That being said, it worked really well with the short amount of time they had on the ship. Their back story of their childhood together and their years apart did a great job of building on their feelings for one another!

I really enjoyed Sybil’s employer and friend Lady Iris. Her husband was a douche and the friendship they had, for that time period, was unique and special. Sybil went beyond her duty Iris and Iris returned that by taking care of Sybil and ensuring her happiness.

Sybil was amazing. She was sweet and loving, but also brave and strong. She didn’t shrink when things were tough.

Charles was so sweet. Seriously sweet. He adored Sybil and came through for her every time, proving he’d always be there.

Definitely felt the tension and anxiety as the powers that be realized the ship was going to go down. Wow! To this day I can’t imagine how anyone got through that. It was so mishandled and so much worse than it should have been.

One thing that I loved about this and the movie (it’s hard not to compare a little)- they personalize some of the more famous/ infamous real people on the ship. They were more than just the mistakes they made. Murdoch and Smith always got so much flak for what happened, but from what I’ve read it was repeatedly reported that Ismay wanted to spend up despite ice. It’s just a reminder they were people working with the info they had and the social pressures of their “betters.”

Overall, I really liked this book. I love Charles telling Sybil stories, and their love of the stars. I love the ending, showing their life years later. I really love Iris and would love a book about her life after Titanic.
Reading the devastation of this horrific tragedy, it’s really weird that I was so hyper-fixated on it!

[Nanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Kelsey Painter for giving me the oportunity to read her book with an ARC copy ✨️

This story was such an emotional and cute ride throughout the entire 259 pages. I'm glad I signed up for this ARC thanks to my big *sick* obssession over "Titanic".

I think that developing stories inside the Titanic is hard enough. The reader knows the ship's doomed fate, so there's this bittersweet feeling all along the story (no matter which one) while you're reading. Miss Author provided an awesome inside look without giving too much technicisms or info dumps about the time and place, so it feels pretty natural and organic to read (also the author's writing style helps a lot).

Nice narrative style. Kelsey Painter keep it simple and light, and I liked that a lot. Good dialogue between characters and pace. There aren't any rushed moments.

The characters were pretty good too. Well outlined, with clear goals and simple personalities that fit the story perfectly. Nothing too deep or hard to understand, they're situations were crystal clear.

Sybil is such a heartwarming and shy fmc and the contrast of her shy personality with the passionate and sweet one of Charles is such and explosive mix. Eventhough I want to say they were the main show (and they were) I think the one that stoled the show was Lady Iris, 'cause I adored that woman with all my heart. I'm not going to talk about Lewis because I hated him and Gordon was almost a non-existent character.

Good worldbuilding for this kind of story and placement. The Titanic movie and endless documentaries about the tragedy (which I consume like a crazy woman) influence helps a lot when it comes to imagine the settings and disaster.

The smut is PERFECT. It didn't give me any kind of ick and good God, I loved Charles during that scenes.

Overall one of my new favorite books 💖 Loved it, it's such a light, romantic and cozy read.

[J Bridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

CW: mention of birth control and like… an early 1900s era morning after pill

*I received an advanced copy for review*

I think Kelsey Painter is one of my auto-read authors. I’m not big on the Titanic movie, but like most weird girls, I did read the history diaries series (I forget the name but all of us born before like ‘96 read those right?) and then had a weird obsession with the actual Titanic for a while. Completely irrelevant, sorry.

Anywayyyy.

Sybil is lady’s maid to Lady Iris, who is married to an absolute boor of a man. Sybil has helped Iris to either not get pregnant or to lose her pregnancies because she doesn’t want a child with Lewis (the boor) for obvious reasons. Charlie grew up with Sybil, and is now an officer for the White Star Line, and meets Sybil again after a decade apart when Sybil and co board the Titanic. Their plan is to visit a doctor in New York to help with Iris’s supposed issues conceiving. Lewis is a sick, Sybil and Charlie grow closer, and ship, meet iceberg.

Sybil is so sweet, and I loved her relationship with Lady Iris (side note I think we’re getting her book next??) and honestly they should’ve put arsenic in Lewis’s coffee ages ago. Jesus, what a piece of shit he was.

The spicy scenes were very, very sweet!

I think my favorite part was actually the final third ish, during the sinking of the ship. The tension and fear during those scenes were present without shifting in tone and going into too much frightening detail. Like, yes there is description and it’s frightening but it’s not like…too much? Idk. The book maintains its sweet (but a little spicy) romance status.

I give this a 4.5 rounded up to 5!

Thanks to Kelsey Painter for the arc!

[Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW- SHIP OF DREAMS

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
___________________
💕Historical Romance
💕Set Aboard the Titanic
💕Childhood Friends to Lovers
💕Second Chance romance
💕It’s Always Been You
____________________

I saw a reel for this book a few months ago and was immediately like, SIGN ME UP! As a millennial, Titanic was essential viewing and Leo was basically my sexual awakening. How could I not read Titanic fiction??

While this is set on the Titanic and has some elements that are similar to the movie, the story was completely original and I fell in love with the characters. Childhood friends Sybil and Charles meet aboard the Titanic after 10 years apart, when he’s an officer onboard and she is a lady’s maid to Lady Iris.

I adore friends to lovers and this was no exception. The characters were so fleshed out and I could feel the chemistry, the longing and the adoration Sybil and Charles had for each other. While this was a romance, what I really loved was the genuine friendship between Sybil and Lady Iris. They were friends and confidants and wanted the best for each other.

We have a new winner for biggest HUMAN COCKROACH and overall WASTE OF OXYGEN in Lady Iris’s husband Lewis! Good lord, I have never wanted to k!ll words before. He makes Cal from Leo’s Titanic look like a sweet kitten.

I felt Kelsey did a great job balancing the romance aspect of the story with the setting and ultimate tragedy of the Titanic, while paying respect to the devastation and loss.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for Lady Iris’s story coming out later this year! If you love the Titanic, historical romance or friends to lovers with second chance thrown in, this is for you!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰✨

“𝙈𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙬𝙚’𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮. 𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤 𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙤, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩.”

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶️🌶️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: 14 & 17
𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧: 35%
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: Second chance romance, childhood friends-to-lovers, it’s always been you, close proximity
𝐏𝐎𝐕: 3rd person
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: TBD
𝐊𝐔: Yes

This book has been on my TBR for a while, especially since I love the movie Titanic. While I was excited to read it, I was also a little apprehensive—after all, I know how the movie ends. But if you're a fan of Titanic and wish it had a happy ending, this book is perfect for you. Rest assured, it delivers an HEA!

Normally, I gravitate toward slow-burn romances with plenty of angst and tension. However, given the Titanic plotline, the romance needed to develop more quickly, and I didn’t mind that at all. I also loved the deep friendship between Sybil (the FMC) and Iris, almost as much as the romance itself. Childhood friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and it worked beautifully in this book.

The pacing was spot-on, and if you’re looking for a great entry point into historical romance, this is the one! Very enjoyable, and I can’t wait to dive into the sequel, Lady Iris’s Lover.


⚠️𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⚠️
Multiple open door scenes with explicit descriptions
Strong language

𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:Infidelity, house fire resulting in fatality (recounted), loss of a loved one (recounted), miscarriage, discussions of pregnancy termination/miscarriage, domestic abuse (on page), physical violence, drowning, confinement, death & disaster related violence

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Kelsey Painter for an early copy!

'Charles didn't look at you like a prize.'
'How did he look, m'lady?'
'With reverence. The way one might look at the moon and stars"

I have been obsessed with the story of Titanic ever since I was a kid, so I just knew I was gonna have to read this book as soon as the book popped up on my feed. I am so happy to have read this book. It is my newest obsession.

I loved this book. I loved the characters and their interactions, the beautiful weaving of fact and fiction, and the romance?! To die for. All of it was amazing and well done. All of the history and the little nods to historical figures were expertly intertwined with Kelsey's characters, and I loved seeing these figures I'd read about come to life on the page and interacting with our cast.

The romance was a huge hit for me. I adore Charles and Sybil. Every time we got a scene with them, I was giggling and kicking my feet. The love and respect they have for each other and the history they share made the romance feel real. I'm not always completely convinced that a couple is good for one another in a romance, but this one? I was hooked from their first interaction. In general, all of Kelsey's characters felt REAL, and I was obsessed from the first page. Sybil and Iris is another relationship I adored. Their friendship was everything to me, and I hope to see them interact more in future books.

Ship of Dreams is out April 10th (the same day Titanic originally set sail), and I can not WAIT for everyone to fall in love with Sybil like I did.

[Pauline Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚢ARC REVIEW🧊

Ship of Dreams by Kelsey Painter comes out April 10th but you can pre-order the ebook now!

Thank you so much Kelsey Painter for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Charles and Sybil grew up together in Yorkshire but when Charles was 16 he wanted to explore, so he left Sybil behind for a sailing apprenticeship. Sybil later ends up becoming a ladies maid to Iris. Twelve years after Charles left Sybil ends up having to go with Iris (who is a first class passenger) on the Titanic where Charles is the second officer on the ship.

I was so excited when I saw this book pop up when I was scrolling through instagram. I’m a 90’s kid so anything about the Titanic is so interesting to me! I loved this book! I loved Charles and Sybil’s chemistry and how they talked to each other even after not seeing each other for twelve years. Although Sybil was a ladies maid Charles still thought she was a goddess. I was so nervous how this story would end since there were so many people on the Titanic who didn’t make it but I really enjoyed how Kelsey brought this book to life!

Although it’s a new story taking place on the Titanic Kelsey still did a great job keeping the book historically accurate and I was really happy with that and it made me enjoy the story even more! I can’t wait to see what happens next for Iris!

🚢“Titanic really is the ship of dreams," Sybil said as he ran a finger across her cheek. "It brought me back to you.”💕

[Krista Linehan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow! This was my very first historical fiction book and I absolutely loved it. As someone who has had an obsession with the Titanic, I knew I had to get my hands on this book.

Kelsey paints such a beautiful childhood friends to lovers story. Sybil Chambers is currently a lady’s maid working for Lady Iris who is married to the worst person I have ever read, Lewis Mooring. Charles Percy is currently a second officer working for White Star Line and the two reconnect after finding each other aboard the Titanic.

I adored the connection that Lady Iris and Sybil had. Sybil wasn’t just her employee, she was her friend. Lady Iris easily stole the scene whenever she was on page. I loved her spunk and how she fought for herself while in a terrible marriage. If only she hit Lewis…that’s all I wanted was for her to sucker punch him.

Sybil and Charles’ story was so sweet and I adored that they were childhood friends who found themselves again. The love they share really shines on page in their scenes. His protectiveness was hot as hell!

I also really enjoyed how there were real people from the Titanic in the story, it was so interesting seeing them actually having plots and stories even if we know little about them in real life.

This story was amazing and I can’t wait for more!! I was completely sucked in and this is probably the fastest I have ever read a book.

[Lauren Brennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all I’d like to say thank you to the author for allowing me to read and review this work before the publication date!

I loved this book! I pretty much tore through it in 2 days, so I’d definitely say it got me out of my mini-slump.

I loved the historical fiction aspect of it, and I liked how it truly did feel *inspired* by history rather than a rote retelling of events. I was worried that the ending would spoil the whole thing for me, but I was very pleasantly surprised with how the story turned out! I loved the length of it too, it was such a nice shorter read, and I felt like it was the perfect length: not missing anything I would’ve wanted, still being descriptive, and definitely not including tons of unnecessary things that slow the story down without adding value.

MOST importantly…Charles and Sybil have a BEAUTIFUL love story. I think this has to be one of my favorite friends-to-lovers stories of all time; it was done SOOO well. Charles is also SO swoony, some of the things he said to Sybil really cracked my heart right open. I’ve also been hearing from a lot of readers that they’re getting tired of the same lines and really overdone tropes being used again and again in every book they read…look no further if you want to try something new and unique! Everything felt truly unique to their story, and the things he said sometimes left me speechless.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh look at that.
What a shocker, I finished this book in a dayyyyy.

This beautiful love story went beyond the normal rehashings of the happenings of the Titanic. The author’s own characters brought life to the story, especially Charlie, Sybil, and Iris. (We all need an Iris/Sybil relationship in our lives.) It was easy to fall in love with the characters and just as easy to relate to them on different levels. (And good god did Kelsey Painter really do a good job of making me hate Lewis.)
The story was also brought to another level when real people who had been on Titanic were referenced, reminding us that this was a very real event and Kelsey Painter handles it all with grace and care.

The story follows Sybil as a lady’s maid and dear friend, to Lady Iris and their trip on the ill-fated Titanic. This venture brings Charlie, a long lost childhood friend back into Sybil’s life.

This childhood friends to lovers story was beautiful, even if the chapter’s date stamps seemed to remind us readers of the impending doom to come.

It was refreshing to truly not know what would happen to our main characters at the end of the story. It had me turning page after page praying for the best but expecting the worse. If I wasn’t laying down while I read the majority of this, I would’ve been on the edge of my seat!

[belovedbookwormIV · Rating 4 out of 5]

Painter crafted a lovely romance with Ship of Dreams. It was well written and a story that was respectfully done.

One of the thing I loved most about this story was the friendship between Sybil and Iris. It was a friendship I could believe and one I enjoyed. And Iris was such a captivating character to me. She was strong and kind. And I liked how she cared about Sybil's happiness. All the characters were well done. I feel the author has a way with characters. She can make even the most minor characters interesting.

Move over Jack and Rose, there is a new Titanic couple to enjoy. I liked the romance between Charles and Sybil. The love between them felt very tender, but steamy. And I liked how smitten Charles was over Sybil. One thing is I wish that there was an extra scene or two where they got to know and love their present, adult selves more. Example, the poker scene.

I enjoyed it and recommend it. If you love the movie Titanic or enjoy historical romances, read it.

Possible triggers: death, loss of family members, toxic marriage, mild physical violence and forced miscarriage.

I received an ARC via the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Kelsey Painter for giving me the opportunity to read Ship of Dreams.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sybil Chambers finds herself aboard the Titanic as lady’s maid to Iris. On board she runs into an old childhood friend, Charles Percy. The two instantly pick up their friendship where it left off all those years ago and it starts to turn into something more. All is great for a few days, but as we all know, the Titanic is dated for tragedy. Will either or both Sybil and Charles survive the sinking of the greatest ocean liner of its time?

Anytime I see a new book about the Titanic, fiction or nonfiction, I am going to pick it up. I am fascinated by everything Titanic and I couldn’t wait to read this book, especially since we are approaching the sinking date. I am glad I came across Ship of Dreams. I really enjoyed this story and most of the characters, with the exception of Lewis, but I’m not sure anyone will like him. I have read a lot of Titanic romances and I have yet to come across one between a lady’s maid and one of the officers, I really enjoyed this angle and liked how Sybil and Charles knew each other from childhood. I think this was a well paced and easy to read story that kept my attention the whole time. My only problem was that I knew the sinking was coming and was worried about what would happen to the characters. Nothing could have been changed there to make this anticipation any better, but it was in the back of my mind the whole time wondering how this was going to end. Overall this was a very enjoyable read for me and I recommend it to anyone looking for a good, Titanic themed romance!

[Haley has moved to Fable · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review 🌿

Ship of Dreams is such a sweet and tragic story. Iris was by far my favorite character and i already can’t wait for more on her story. the friendship between Iris and Sybil is tender and heartwarming, everything about them makes me feel so thankful for my own friends who show up for me the way they show up for one another throughout. Titanic was and will always be something that holds significance for so many and i loved getting to see the untold side of those who worked on the ship for the few days it sailed. Charles and Sybil are both such little cinnamon rolls and i wanted to protect both of them at all costs, but that’s hard to do when they’re both on a ship set to sink 🚢

super quick and easy read - i read it in an afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it. i love Kelsey Painter’s writing - reading her books is like sipping a mug of hot tea on a cold night. this book will be available on April 10th and on Kindle Unlimited 🌊

the details ✨
- cinnamon roll FMC + MMC
- set on the Titanic
- Childhood Friends to Lovers
- Found Family
- some spice
- written in the stars

rating : 4.25 ⭐️

[McKinley Devine · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know those romance books that have a love so pure it makes your heart physically ache? This is one of those.

I cannot believe how much I loved this book. I knew it would be good because I love everything else Kelsey Painter has done but something about Ship of Dreams really spoke to me. Probably because I’ve been obsessed with Titanic since I was a kid!

I loved the characters so much. Not just our MC’s but the supporting characters as well. Iris is one of my favorite supporting characters ever and I really hope to get more of her story. Her strength was just phenomenal. Sybil was equally amazing and following her story had me in literal tears by the end. Charles, oh Charles. I loved this man so much!!

Kelsey did such a great job making us feel like we were on Titanic right alongside the characters. This was such a feat given how much we already know, she kept it feeling so fresh!! Now given what we know happens, you can imagine this book gets intense. I feel like this topic was handled so well and gave a lot of respect to the victims.

This one is low spice which honestly fit the story perfectly!!!

Please read this book! You will not be sorry!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Ship of Dreams (Maid and Mistress Book 1)
Author: Kelsey Painter
Format: ebook arc
Pub Date: April 10, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating Out of 5: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice Level: open door
Summary:
Sybil Chambers finds comfort and stability as a lady’s maid, putting aside past losses. Meanwhile, Charles Percy pursues freedom at sea, leaving behind his childhood friend. Their paths cross again on the Titanic, reigniting old feelings amidst impending tragedy.

Thoughts:
THIS. This is the love story we all wanted about the Titanic. Think: all the best parts about the Titanic movie EXCEPT WE GET A HEA!! Not only was this about Sybil and Charlie’s romance, but we also get so much of Iris and Sybil’s friendship before we even board the Titanic which was so sweet. This was such a great, easy read that I’d recommend to anyone who loves open door historical romance!

Read if you love:
Historical fiction
The movie Titanic
Nicknames
Strong female friendships
Second chance romance
Dual POV

Special thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review!

[Samantha Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

All aboard the MRS Titanic. This book is absolutely perfect for those of you fascinated by Titanic's story, or you know if you're looking for a great historical romance. Kelsey Painter does an amazing job of merging fact and fiction to create this love story. It will have you asking yourself Jack and Rose who?

The last thing Charles Percy did before leaving to explore the world was kiss his dear friend Sybil goodbye. A kiss he hoped would mean she'd never forget him. After losing everything in life, the last thing on Sybil's mind is ever leaving her settled and comfortable life in Yorkshire. That is until the opportunity presents itself to accompany her employer, Lady Iris, on her voyage on the MRS Titanic. She could have never imagined that this is how she would come face to face once again with her childhood friend, now second officer of the MRS Titanic, after so many years. Old feelings will reignite into a beautiful romance, but what will become of them as the most famous ship in history meets its untimely fate.

I am super excited to read more by Kelsey Painter!

[sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ship of Dreams review 🦢
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

⚓️ Historical romance
🦢 Childhood friends to lovers
🌠 Second chance
💌 Forced proximity

Such a cute and fast read!
The book is set in 1912 on the Titanic, it was so interesting to get a different perspective of the ship since all I've never really thought much about how life and the people on the boat would've been doing before it hit the iceberg.
This brought light to an incredibly tragic situation and I felt like it was handled and discussed very well! 🌌

I couldn't get enough of Sybil and Charles, they were so adorable to read about!
One of my favourite parts of the story has to be Lady Iris, she was so witty and kind! It really warmed my heart the way she and Sybil cared about each other even if they were from different walks of life. 🌊

Childhood crushes, secretly still loving each other after so long, being stuck together.. what's not to love? 🌙


Thank you Kelsey Painter for the early copy of this book! All opinions stated are mine and mine alone. 🦋

[Kalanit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even begin? This book is purely magical. You feel as though you're right alongside the characters experiencing everything they are. Not only that but the characters are so well rounded and complex. Sybil and Iris's banter is especially some of my favorite.
Also the bed switcheroo scene is truly unmatched. I've not laughed that hard in a long time.
Now onto the romance: CHILDHOOD FRIENDS TO LOVERS?!?!? That shit is my jam.
I will never get tired of it. Charles and Sybil are the literal cutest. They’re both supportive and kind to each other. The respect they have for each other is something I can only dream of. I was rooting for them the whole way through the story.

And the sex scenes between them?!?!?!

HOLY HECK!!!! THEY WERE SO AMAZING AND TENDER AND SMUTTY AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN.

And the ending: Magical. Perfect. Amazing.
This is one of the top books I've read recently.