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Daydreams & Disasters #1
Reverie
What if you could experience the love of a lifetime twice?
Esme Jenkins has a story to tell.
After being left at the altar, she sets off for her honeymoon in Bora Bora alone, on a mission to find a certain spark to hoist her from the dregs of her insipid life. That spark blazes into her world in the form of a shirtless, giant of a man rescuing her from an attempted kidnapping. When the offender escapes, Esme’s savior vows to stay by her side until the creep is caught. As the days tick by, the pair fall into a whirlwind romance Esme never expected to experience.
But that’s just fiction.
Because when Esme Jenkins was in Bora Bora, she lost three years of her memory in a freak accident, including ones made during that week on the island. Two years later, she’s seeking to publish the story that won’t vacate her brain. The serendipity? The agent seeking to represent her looks identical to her male main character.
Reverie is a chick-lit romance novel teeming with heart, hope, healing, and humor with an unexpected happily-ever-after that will occupy your daydreams for weeks to come.
Esme Jenkins has a story to tell.
After being left at the altar, she sets off for her honeymoon in Bora Bora alone, on a mission to find a certain spark to hoist her from the dregs of her insipid life. That spark blazes into her world in the form of a shirtless, giant of a man rescuing her from an attempted kidnapping. When the offender escapes, Esme’s savior vows to stay by her side until the creep is caught. As the days tick by, the pair fall into a whirlwind romance Esme never expected to experience.
But that’s just fiction.
Because when Esme Jenkins was in Bora Bora, she lost three years of her memory in a freak accident, including ones made during that week on the island. Two years later, she’s seeking to publish the story that won’t vacate her brain. The serendipity? The agent seeking to represent her looks identical to her male main character.
Reverie is a chick-lit romance novel teeming with heart, hope, healing, and humor with an unexpected happily-ever-after that will occupy your daydreams for weeks to come.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
444 people are currently reading
2862 people want to read
About the author
Drew Taylor
24 books432 followersDrew Taylor writes modern closed-door chick-lit romance stories from a Biblical worldview. She believes faith-based romance can be full of heart, humor, healing, and hope while showcasing the reality of our fallen human condition. Her redemptive and engaging stories point to the One who embodies true love–Jesus Christ.
Drew lives in the great state of Mississippi where she teaches high school English. When not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading, baking, researching conspiracy theories, and spending quality time with the people who mean the most to her.
Follow Drew:
Instagram: @authordrewtaylor
Facebook: Drew Taylor, Author
TikTok: @drewtaylorwrites
Pinterest: @authordrewtaylor
YouTube: @authordrewtaylor
Drew lives in the great state of Mississippi where she teaches high school English. When not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading, baking, researching conspiracy theories, and spending quality time with the people who mean the most to her.
Follow Drew:
Instagram: @authordrewtaylor
Facebook: Drew Taylor, Author
TikTok: @drewtaylorwrites
Pinterest: @authordrewtaylor
YouTube: @authordrewtaylor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
September 25, 2025
09/25/2025 --
ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING REVERIE!!!
Hi, everyone! I wanted to pop in to let you know that if you have a copy of Reverie with the Bonus Epilogue and Evidence-A, you are now one of the rare holders of it! As of now, I have OFFICIALLY REMOVED THE BONUS EPILOGUE AND EVIDENCE-A PORTIONS FROM THE NOVEL. If you'd like more information on this, go see my Instagram/TikTok/YouTube/Facebook. I will post a video on the night of 09/25/2025.
***
Hi, lovely readers!
First off, thank you so much for choosing to read Reverie. Secondly, I'd like to use this space to share a little about the story and what's to come.
Reverie came to me in a whirlwind idea. I was reading a book with an amnesiac character, and I told my mama that I would never write that plot device because I couldn't make it original. My brain took that as a challenge, apparently. This book is everything I've wanted and needed to write, and I absolutely love what this story became--the core of the Taylorverse.
You see, this book connects my previously published books to books I've yet to release. It helps build the stage previously set in other works. Even though this book is still a fun and swoony romance, it has so many other deep layers--political, theological, and cultural. It reveals my new direction as an author, which is away from market fiction and into literary fiction. I have an entire universe inside my head, begging to be set free. But alas, I can only reveal small portions at a time.
Thank you to my loyal readers, and thank you to my new readers. Thank you to everyone who reads this story! I truly pray that you enjoy it, that you sit with it, and that you ruminate over it.
All my love,
Drew Taylor 🤍
ANNOUNCEMENT REGARDING REVERIE!!!
Hi, everyone! I wanted to pop in to let you know that if you have a copy of Reverie with the Bonus Epilogue and Evidence-A, you are now one of the rare holders of it! As of now, I have OFFICIALLY REMOVED THE BONUS EPILOGUE AND EVIDENCE-A PORTIONS FROM THE NOVEL. If you'd like more information on this, go see my Instagram/TikTok/YouTube/Facebook. I will post a video on the night of 09/25/2025.
***
Hi, lovely readers!
First off, thank you so much for choosing to read Reverie. Secondly, I'd like to use this space to share a little about the story and what's to come.
Reverie came to me in a whirlwind idea. I was reading a book with an amnesiac character, and I told my mama that I would never write that plot device because I couldn't make it original. My brain took that as a challenge, apparently. This book is everything I've wanted and needed to write, and I absolutely love what this story became--the core of the Taylorverse.
You see, this book connects my previously published books to books I've yet to release. It helps build the stage previously set in other works. Even though this book is still a fun and swoony romance, it has so many other deep layers--political, theological, and cultural. It reveals my new direction as an author, which is away from market fiction and into literary fiction. I have an entire universe inside my head, begging to be set free. But alas, I can only reveal small portions at a time.
Thank you to my loyal readers, and thank you to my new readers. Thank you to everyone who reads this story! I truly pray that you enjoy it, that you sit with it, and that you ruminate over it.
All my love,
Drew Taylor 🤍
October 15, 2025
This book is like a fever dream, but like in the absolutely best way possible. Drew Taylor is a master at romance.
July 8, 2025
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Reverie’s beautiful cover drew me in, but it was the layered story that enticed me to stay. This is a book within a book, and is one of the most meta and self-aware stories I’ve read in years. It’s a romance first and foremost, but it’s also a deep-dive into learning to embrace who you are, to trust God with your dreams, and to tell the story He places in your heart. Because you never know where that story will take you.
When we first meet Esme, she is sitting down to finally start writing the story that has been living in her head and heart since she suffered an accident nine months ago that resulted in amnesia, costing her any memories she had made over the last three years of her life. Since then, she has had a sexy, endearing voice in her head, weaving a tale of adventure and love at first sight that Esme knows would make the perfect romance novel. What she can’t believe is that something so wild and wonderful could ever happen to her, or that a man as perfect for her as Noah could exist outside of a book.
Sometimes we dream too small, because we don't trust God with the deepest desires of our hearts. Believing that God is ultimately in control should be freeing knowledge, but we often feel stifled by or resentful of it instead. We want to control our own destiny, even when we know from experience that we steer our lives in the wrong direction time and again.
I fell in love with Noah, the voice in Esme’s head, pretty immediately. He’s a fantastic male lead, in both the main plot and Esme's novel within the story. He's bright and charming, open and endearing. And insanely attractive. Esme is pretty lovable herself. She has some foibles that made me roll my eyes at times, but she’s a believable and sympathetic protagonist overall.
The faith content and the romance were both equally important to the story, and both equally well handled. I liked seeing characters who were striving to wait to sleep together until marriage, but who were also struggling with very understandable lust. That’s not a balance I’ve seen often struck in Christian romance, and I was impressed by Taylor’s handling of it. I also liked her usage of the insta-love trope. I know that’s a trope that many readers dislike and find unbelievable. But as I fell for my husband the night I met him, it’s something to which I relate when handled well. And Taylor utilized it beautifully.
There were a few quirks to the writing style that threw me on occasion. For instance, this story is told in the first person present tense, which isn’t my favorite. There’s an overuse of proper names in conversation, which felt inauthentic to me. But these are incredibly minor, subjective complaints. Aside from those very nitpicky issues, I had an absolutely delightful time with Reverie. I immediately pressed it into my mother’s and grandmother’s hands. It was my first introduction to Taylor’s books, and I look forward to reading more from her.
Reverie’s beautiful cover drew me in, but it was the layered story that enticed me to stay. This is a book within a book, and is one of the most meta and self-aware stories I’ve read in years. It’s a romance first and foremost, but it’s also a deep-dive into learning to embrace who you are, to trust God with your dreams, and to tell the story He places in your heart. Because you never know where that story will take you.
When we first meet Esme, she is sitting down to finally start writing the story that has been living in her head and heart since she suffered an accident nine months ago that resulted in amnesia, costing her any memories she had made over the last three years of her life. Since then, she has had a sexy, endearing voice in her head, weaving a tale of adventure and love at first sight that Esme knows would make the perfect romance novel. What she can’t believe is that something so wild and wonderful could ever happen to her, or that a man as perfect for her as Noah could exist outside of a book.
Sometimes we dream too small, because we don't trust God with the deepest desires of our hearts. Believing that God is ultimately in control should be freeing knowledge, but we often feel stifled by or resentful of it instead. We want to control our own destiny, even when we know from experience that we steer our lives in the wrong direction time and again.
I fell in love with Noah, the voice in Esme’s head, pretty immediately. He’s a fantastic male lead, in both the main plot and Esme's novel within the story. He's bright and charming, open and endearing. And insanely attractive. Esme is pretty lovable herself. She has some foibles that made me roll my eyes at times, but she’s a believable and sympathetic protagonist overall.
The faith content and the romance were both equally important to the story, and both equally well handled. I liked seeing characters who were striving to wait to sleep together until marriage, but who were also struggling with very understandable lust. That’s not a balance I’ve seen often struck in Christian romance, and I was impressed by Taylor’s handling of it. I also liked her usage of the insta-love trope. I know that’s a trope that many readers dislike and find unbelievable. But as I fell for my husband the night I met him, it’s something to which I relate when handled well. And Taylor utilized it beautifully.
There were a few quirks to the writing style that threw me on occasion. For instance, this story is told in the first person present tense, which isn’t my favorite. There’s an overuse of proper names in conversation, which felt inauthentic to me. But these are incredibly minor, subjective complaints. Aside from those very nitpicky issues, I had an absolutely delightful time with Reverie. I immediately pressed it into my mother’s and grandmother’s hands. It was my first introduction to Taylor’s books, and I look forward to reading more from her.
June 4, 2025
Oh my goodness... I honestly am not sure what I was expecting with this book... but I do know that what I got was so much more than that! This story truly is one of a kind... in the very best way possible. The FMC Esme is an author who after getting left at the altar, takes her honeymoon to Bora Bora on her own where she has an accident and loses three years of memories. Afterwards, she writes a novel that in some ways mirrors her own story with a MMC that won't leave her mind... and one who just so happens to look exactly like the agent who is interesting in helping her get her book out to the world. I cannot give anything else away... BUT I will say that this is a story that will have you questioning absolutely everything. Just when I would think that I knew exactly how this was all going to play out, there would be another twist that I absolutely did not see coming that would keep me guessing right through to the end. With the story within the story (Esme's novel, intertwined with her actual life), it was just such a unique and perfect way to tell this story and one that kept me absolutely captivated from start to finish. Drew Taylor also always does a really fantastic job of writing Christian romances that celebrate God's plan for sex within marriage, while also acknowledging that Christians are still human and still can struggle with temptation, making these characters feel all that more genuine to me. This story truly was a beautiful blend of romance, chick-lit, faith and mystery/suspense... and I loved every single minute. This is definitely one story that is going to stick with me! I cannot wait to see what is going to happen in the series next.
Reverie is a closed-door Christian romance, with kisses only. It does have some innuendo and discussions of sex, but again definitely holds to a Christian view on the subject.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Reverie is a closed-door Christian romance, with kisses only. It does have some innuendo and discussions of sex, but again definitely holds to a Christian view on the subject.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
January 29, 2026
A cute and fun romance of a woman who has lost the memory of the man she may have fallen in love with. Or is he just a figment of her imagination?
What a sweet story and a perfect getaway book for a vacation!
What a sweet story and a perfect getaway book for a vacation!
June 6, 2025
Reverie by Drew Taylor is a new author for me. I read the blurb for the book and thought this would be a cute and sweet read. Well, it is, but much more than that. I'm not certain how to classify it - a bit chick lit, and a bit mystery and suspense too. I found the read to be original and different. I enjoyed it and want to read more by the author. This book is about an aspiring author who was jilted at the altar and goes to Bora Bora on her honeymoon by herself. She meets a gorgeous man and it's insta love. Or did she really? She gets amnesia and doesn't remember. So, as she writes her book, is she writing about her memories or did they really happen? You need to read the book and find out. I was given a copy of this book by the author, and this is my honest opinion.
May 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
•𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰•
{𝐃𝐚𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 & 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: Book 1}
“𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚢 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚎.”
🪴 Release Date: June 17, 2025 🪴
.
.
.
The first thing that really stuck out to me with this book was the writing; it was very well done—beyond excellent! So if nothing else, read this book for the phenomenal writing 😄 But thank goodness there are quite a few other reasons for you to want to read this book beyond just the good prose!
If you love a flirty MMC, you’ll absolutely die over Noah 🤭 He was literally the epitome of a flirt through and through! I lost it multiple times over his comments in Esme’s head—they were absolutely hilarious 😂 I must say, this book had some excellent humor in it!
Esme, the FMC, gave off such quirky vibes since she was an author, and I really enjoyed it! I strongly related to her control issues—it can be so hard at times to simply let go and let God take control. I really appreciated how vulnerable the characters in this story were at times with their struggles. I felt like they very accurately portrayed the real struggles we face on a daily basis. I love books that depict people living Christ-centered lives, and for the most part, this one was very well done!
I do have a few complaints with the story, and honestly, they affected my enjoyment of the story pretty drastically. While I typically love the amnesia trope, I struggled to really get on board with this particular take of the trope. By about 50% into the book, I wasn’t a big fan of where the story seemed to be heading, and I was very torn as to who I was supposed to be rooting for. The characters were a touch dramatic with their emotions, like suddenly sobbing at the drop of a hat, and that started to grate on my nerves after a while. The epilogue didn’t seem to connect very well with the rest of the story and came across as more of an afterthought than a well-thought-out plot.
My main issue, though, was with the romance, which felt way too rushed for my liking. I felt like we didn’t have nearly enough explanation or development shown as to why the characters liked each other as much as they did, and because of that, I wasn’t able to adequately support the romance. I’m just not a fan of the insta-love trope 😬 I also found the romance to be a bit too intense for my comfort, though I did appreciate how the author handled it, for the most part. It’s disappointing because the main plot of this book was the romance, and I just felt like it fell flat for me, with not enough depth 😕
.
.
.
I received a complimentary arc from Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. All opinions listed are purely my own.
•𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰•
{𝐃𝐚𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 & 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: Book 1}
“𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚞𝚝𝚢 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚖𝚋𝚕𝚎.”
🪴 Release Date: June 17, 2025 🪴
.
.
.
The first thing that really stuck out to me with this book was the writing; it was very well done—beyond excellent! So if nothing else, read this book for the phenomenal writing 😄 But thank goodness there are quite a few other reasons for you to want to read this book beyond just the good prose!
If you love a flirty MMC, you’ll absolutely die over Noah 🤭 He was literally the epitome of a flirt through and through! I lost it multiple times over his comments in Esme’s head—they were absolutely hilarious 😂 I must say, this book had some excellent humor in it!
Esme, the FMC, gave off such quirky vibes since she was an author, and I really enjoyed it! I strongly related to her control issues—it can be so hard at times to simply let go and let God take control. I really appreciated how vulnerable the characters in this story were at times with their struggles. I felt like they very accurately portrayed the real struggles we face on a daily basis. I love books that depict people living Christ-centered lives, and for the most part, this one was very well done!
I do have a few complaints with the story, and honestly, they affected my enjoyment of the story pretty drastically. While I typically love the amnesia trope, I struggled to really get on board with this particular take of the trope. By about 50% into the book, I wasn’t a big fan of where the story seemed to be heading, and I was very torn as to who I was supposed to be rooting for. The characters were a touch dramatic with their emotions, like suddenly sobbing at the drop of a hat, and that started to grate on my nerves after a while. The epilogue didn’t seem to connect very well with the rest of the story and came across as more of an afterthought than a well-thought-out plot.
My main issue, though, was with the romance, which felt way too rushed for my liking. I felt like we didn’t have nearly enough explanation or development shown as to why the characters liked each other as much as they did, and because of that, I wasn’t able to adequately support the romance. I’m just not a fan of the insta-love trope 😬 I also found the romance to be a bit too intense for my comfort, though I did appreciate how the author handled it, for the most part. It’s disappointing because the main plot of this book was the romance, and I just felt like it fell flat for me, with not enough depth 😕
.
.
.
I received a complimentary arc from Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. All opinions listed are purely my own.
June 15, 2025
(thank you victory editing and netgalley for the arc in the exchange for an honest review)
‘Reverie’ is the first book in the Daydreams & Disasters series. The plot follows Esme Jenkins who has lost the last three years of her memories and though still herself, she is emboldened to pursue one of her dreams, writing a book. A romance book to be exact with the main female character representing and named after herself.
‘Reverie’ also happens to be a book within a book with alternating chapters of Real Esme Jenkins’s life and Book Esme Prewitt’s life. They share quite a bit. Both were left at the altar and went on their honeymoon as a vacation. But while Book Esme’s life was swept into a whirlwind romance after being saved from assault, real Esme doesn’t remember anything from that time. When meeting potential publishers for her book, she meets an agent, Nikhail Ashton Prewitt, who looks startlingly similar to her male main character, Noah Ashton.
Esme Jenkins and Nikhail Prewitt.
Esme Prewitt and Noah Ashton.
The coincidences are alarming but that’s all they are, coincidences, right?
I requested this book for certain reasons. I’m always in the lookout for more christian romances with unique plots and the synopsis immediately captured my attention. The whole mystery aspect of why her book characters are weirdly coming to life sounded right up my alley and the cover?! Absolutely gorgeous.
Yet absolutely nothing worked for me. It had two of my worst romantic tropes: insta-love and the whole short-quirky-female-mc with their oh-goodness-you’re-so-tall-male-mc. I’m so sick and tired of this trope. Still, I decided to still give this book another chance and while the faith aspects were so wonderfully done, it didn’t detract from how bad I found the mystery plot. Listen, I understand this is a christian romance but really? This is what we’re going with? Those last chapters pissed me off so much, I nearly threw my phone across the room. I feel awful because this book is clearly loved from the reviews but I pretty much hated it from beginning to end.
One star for the cover and the other for the faith depiction.
He wants me to share the message that love-true love—is ultimately given and received through Him alone.
‘Reverie’ is the first book in the Daydreams & Disasters series. The plot follows Esme Jenkins who has lost the last three years of her memories and though still herself, she is emboldened to pursue one of her dreams, writing a book. A romance book to be exact with the main female character representing and named after herself.
‘Reverie’ also happens to be a book within a book with alternating chapters of Real Esme Jenkins’s life and Book Esme Prewitt’s life. They share quite a bit. Both were left at the altar and went on their honeymoon as a vacation. But while Book Esme’s life was swept into a whirlwind romance after being saved from assault, real Esme doesn’t remember anything from that time. When meeting potential publishers for her book, she meets an agent, Nikhail Ashton Prewitt, who looks startlingly similar to her male main character, Noah Ashton.
Esme Jenkins and Nikhail Prewitt.
Esme Prewitt and Noah Ashton.
The coincidences are alarming but that’s all they are, coincidences, right?
I requested this book for certain reasons. I’m always in the lookout for more christian romances with unique plots and the synopsis immediately captured my attention. The whole mystery aspect of why her book characters are weirdly coming to life sounded right up my alley and the cover?! Absolutely gorgeous.
Yet absolutely nothing worked for me. It had two of my worst romantic tropes: insta-love and the whole short-quirky-female-mc with their oh-goodness-you’re-so-tall-male-mc. I’m so sick and tired of this trope. Still, I decided to still give this book another chance and while the faith aspects were so wonderfully done, it didn’t detract from how bad I found the mystery plot. Listen, I understand this is a christian romance but really? This is what we’re going with? Those last chapters pissed me off so much, I nearly threw my phone across the room. I feel awful because this book is clearly loved from the reviews but I pretty much hated it from beginning to end.
One star for the cover and the other for the faith depiction.
May 26, 2025
Books have always been my “happy place.” The genre that I can never get enough of is romance. Although my preferred genre is romantic suspense books, there are some genres that I simply have not read before. Because of this, I was extremely excited to read this book, as it introduced a new genre to me.
As this was my first “Christian” romance, it didn’t know what to expect. One thing I knew is that it would be unfair to compare it to others in my mind. I have to be honest that it took me a minute to get into the book, because I felt like I knew what was going to happen, and I was just waiting to get there.
I always try to keep my reviews mostly spoiler free, and this one is really hard to do. One thing I will say is that Chapter 6 shattered my expectations for this book. Another thing I will say is that, although I can see the logic behind it, I don’t really like this specific plot point. It seemed like it changed the trajectory of how the story was going, and there were some things that were added to “save it.” Again, it’s really hard to talk about without spoiling it, so I will leave it alone.
I really wanted to give this book a “5,” but I just wasn’t a fan of that specific plot point. (Especially when I realized after reading the acknowledgement that I wanted the author’s original idea to happen.) I see this is a book one of a series, but I think this may be one where I don’t continue to read it. That’s not to say I don’t like the book, I just don’t want to explore the series any further.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
As this was my first “Christian” romance, it didn’t know what to expect. One thing I knew is that it would be unfair to compare it to others in my mind. I have to be honest that it took me a minute to get into the book, because I felt like I knew what was going to happen, and I was just waiting to get there.
I always try to keep my reviews mostly spoiler free, and this one is really hard to do. One thing I will say is that Chapter 6 shattered my expectations for this book. Another thing I will say is that, although I can see the logic behind it, I don’t really like this specific plot point. It seemed like it changed the trajectory of how the story was going, and there were some things that were added to “save it.” Again, it’s really hard to talk about without spoiling it, so I will leave it alone.
I really wanted to give this book a “5,” but I just wasn’t a fan of that specific plot point. (Especially when I realized after reading the acknowledgement that I wanted the author’s original idea to happen.) I see this is a book one of a series, but I think this may be one where I don’t continue to read it. That’s not to say I don’t like the book, I just don’t want to explore the series any further.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
June 25, 2025
Blending faith, love, hopes, fiction, and reality flawlessly, Reverie takes readers on a journey of discovering what love truly is.
Esme's amnesia amplifies her need of Jesus and the people He brings into her life to help her along the way. She learns through those trials who she really is and what she is capable of--not on her own but with Jesus.
This book within a novel is unlike anything else I've ever read and I found myself completely enraptured through the pages. Every detail has been carefully curated, and executed to perfectionist standards.
Women's fiction blends flawlessly into this romance story while being held together by a strong thread of faith.
Each aspect of the romance is pleasantly unexpected while bringing the swoon factor up. The side characters add the perfect amount of encouragement and tension to drive home the emotional sections of this book.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️
💋💋
17+
Esme's amnesia amplifies her need of Jesus and the people He brings into her life to help her along the way. She learns through those trials who she really is and what she is capable of--not on her own but with Jesus.
This book within a novel is unlike anything else I've ever read and I found myself completely enraptured through the pages. Every detail has been carefully curated, and executed to perfectionist standards.
Women's fiction blends flawlessly into this romance story while being held together by a strong thread of faith.
Each aspect of the romance is pleasantly unexpected while bringing the swoon factor up. The side characters add the perfect amount of encouragement and tension to drive home the emotional sections of this book.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️
💋💋
17+
May 4, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
GENRE
-women's fiction, romance, suspense/mystery, Christian fiction MIX
CONTENT
-🤬: a couple of he**s
-❤️: make outs, brief discussions of sex and mentions of virginity, innuendo
-⚠️: kidnapping attempt, stabbing (on page), panic attack (on page)
I had the privilege of proofreading this, and let me just say, IT IS AMAZING. The story was unlike any I've read before, and it had me utterly captivated. It's a mix of women's fiction, romance, and suspense/mystery with some Christianity sprinkled in.
Once I get my paperback copy and reread it again (as a book rather than as a manuscript), I'll mark up my favorite quotes and craft a real review. But for now, know that you will not regret reading this book!
GENRE
-women's fiction, romance, suspense/mystery, Christian fiction MIX
CONTENT
-🤬: a couple of he**s
-❤️: make outs, brief discussions of sex and mentions of virginity, innuendo
-⚠️: kidnapping attempt, stabbing (on page), panic attack (on page)
I had the privilege of proofreading this, and let me just say, IT IS AMAZING. The story was unlike any I've read before, and it had me utterly captivated. It's a mix of women's fiction, romance, and suspense/mystery with some Christianity sprinkled in.
Once I get my paperback copy and reread it again (as a book rather than as a manuscript), I'll mark up my favorite quotes and craft a real review. But for now, know that you will not regret reading this book!
August 5, 2025
*4.25*
I have read around 20 novels between what’s last reviewed and this book, but this is the first one I can formulate thoughts about seeing as I finished it today.
This book does feel like a fever dream in some senses, but overall, it was nice. The character development and faith discussions and vibes were immaculate. I thought the book was over at 33%, but no. And the twists were so well done and I remember enjoyed the ending. This book tackles (from a Biblical perspective) lust, s*x before vs after marriage, depression, and amnesia. Those things didn’t really bother me aside from the lust in some ways. The characters do drink occasionally (which I don’t appreciate) and there is a little suspense. My main issue with the books and why I have so any thoughts is the lust and make outs. The characters were very against lust, but often made innuendos and made out multiple up to detailed. While I have my opinions on kissing in books specifically Christian books, this went over my comfort zone. Most of the kissing was fine, but it was just very physical and not much else. I still enjoyed the themes and characters and would recommend with those content notes
I have read around 20 novels between what’s last reviewed and this book, but this is the first one I can formulate thoughts about seeing as I finished it today.
This book does feel like a fever dream in some senses, but overall, it was nice. The character development and faith discussions and vibes were immaculate. I thought the book was over at 33%, but no. And the twists were so well done and I remember enjoyed the ending. This book tackles (from a Biblical perspective) lust, s*x before vs after marriage, depression, and amnesia. Those things didn’t really bother me aside from the lust in some ways. The characters do drink occasionally (which I don’t appreciate) and there is a little suspense. My main issue with the books and why I have so any thoughts is the lust and make outs. The characters were very against lust, but often made innuendos and made out multiple up to detailed. While I have my opinions on kissing in books specifically Christian books, this went over my comfort zone. Most of the kissing was fine, but it was just very physical and not much else. I still enjoyed the themes and characters and would recommend with those content notes
August 7, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This was an interesting story between Esme & Noah. The instant love connection between these two was a little unrealistic for me and harder to get into. I did appreciate how Esme was sticking to her morals and setting boundaries between them two during their time together even though it was difficult at times. Noah is a sweet guy and sweeps Esme right off her feet after she was left at the altar.
I think all of the different things going on in the book was a lot for me personally but it still did have good moments. There were some faith themes throughout also. I liked seeing Noah reading his Bible & praying for them. I thought it was wonderful that Esme was pursuing her dreams of being a writer. Esme gets to experience real love and not just write about it.
Quote -
I concluded I will never understand the mind of God, but all that matters is that He is God and He is good.
Content ⚠️
A couple uses of h***
Alcohol
Brief discussions of sex, a couple strong innuendos & kissing.
Mentions of parent passing away
Kidnapping attempt, stabbing, and panic attacks
This was an interesting story between Esme & Noah. The instant love connection between these two was a little unrealistic for me and harder to get into. I did appreciate how Esme was sticking to her morals and setting boundaries between them two during their time together even though it was difficult at times. Noah is a sweet guy and sweeps Esme right off her feet after she was left at the altar.
I think all of the different things going on in the book was a lot for me personally but it still did have good moments. There were some faith themes throughout also. I liked seeing Noah reading his Bible & praying for them. I thought it was wonderful that Esme was pursuing her dreams of being a writer. Esme gets to experience real love and not just write about it.
Quote -
I concluded I will never understand the mind of God, but all that matters is that He is God and He is good.
Content ⚠️
A couple uses of h***
Alcohol
Brief discussions of sex, a couple strong innuendos & kissing.
Mentions of parent passing away
Kidnapping attempt, stabbing, and panic attacks
June 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ (Liked it)
Reverie kicks off a new series that also ties together past and future books from this author, so you may want to hold on to your hat with this one! There’s a light blend of genres sprinkled throughout the story.
This is a well written, spice-free but edgy love story with Christian characters struggling through uncertainties, the incomprehensible, and the previously unknown. Boundaries are tested as the character learns where she has to draw the line.
Probably due to the little blending of genres, some of the references to a certain object seem to suggest that it can influence a life—in other words, a talisman. The references are brief, but I would have preferred it if the object only had sentimental value. To be clear, though, God does get the honor and glory for the outcome.
Overall, the love and effort that went into writing this book are plain to see. Some of the things that are mentioned and revealed, however—especially towards the end—just didn’t sit well with me personally.
That said, there was a lot that I liked about this novel. It made me smile and chuckle, it surprised me, I felt torn, and I was emotional, with some repeats mixed in there! It’s a twisty road, and you wouldn’t believe the theory I came up with 🤣 I would tell you, but then you would know it’s not THAT and I don’t want to spoil anything!
One thing is for certain… I doubt I’ll ever look at lasagne again without thinking about this book 🤭🧡
Content:
Alcohol | Violence | Closed door | Mature themes/ strong innuendos and double entendres
*I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Reverie kicks off a new series that also ties together past and future books from this author, so you may want to hold on to your hat with this one! There’s a light blend of genres sprinkled throughout the story.
This is a well written, spice-free but edgy love story with Christian characters struggling through uncertainties, the incomprehensible, and the previously unknown. Boundaries are tested as the character learns where she has to draw the line.
Probably due to the little blending of genres, some of the references to a certain object seem to suggest that it can influence a life—in other words, a talisman. The references are brief, but I would have preferred it if the object only had sentimental value. To be clear, though, God does get the honor and glory for the outcome.
Overall, the love and effort that went into writing this book are plain to see. Some of the things that are mentioned and revealed, however—especially towards the end—just didn’t sit well with me personally.
That said, there was a lot that I liked about this novel. It made me smile and chuckle, it surprised me, I felt torn, and I was emotional, with some repeats mixed in there! It’s a twisty road, and you wouldn’t believe the theory I came up with 🤣 I would tell you, but then you would know it’s not THAT and I don’t want to spoil anything!
One thing is for certain… I doubt I’ll ever look at lasagne again without thinking about this book 🤭🧡
Content:
Alcohol | Violence | Closed door | Mature themes/ strong innuendos and double entendres
*I received a complimentary eARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 15, 2025
This book is unlike anything I’ve read before and it is amazing! It’s almost a mix of women’s fiction, cozy mystery, & romantic suspense with faith mixed in. It is a book inside a book, with our FMC trying filter memories from reality and fiction—with an entirely epic love story along the way. So excited that this is book one of a series, because I need more!
TW: Amnesia, Kidnapping Attempt, Stabbing, Panic Attacks
CW: Use of idioms with H*** 5x's & Innuendo
TW: Amnesia, Kidnapping Attempt, Stabbing, Panic Attacks
CW: Use of idioms with H*** 5x's & Innuendo
April 16, 2025
The first in the Daydreams & Disasters series, Reverie is a wild ride of vacation vibes, small-town kookiness, and a once in a lifetime romance… or two, and I adored every moment of the trip. Drew Taylor creatively crafts fiction inside of fiction, forcing the reader to question everything while intermittently enticing us all to fall for more than one book boyfriend. Her approach to romance from the Christian world POV and the fact that—hold your pearls—Christians have bodies and would like to use them, is not only written thoughtfully, but also with realistic depictions of sexual desires in line with God’s design for marriage and sex.
*I received an ARC for review/endorsement. All opinions are my own*
*I received an ARC for review/endorsement. All opinions are my own*
June 23, 2025
Get ready for THE fever dream read of the summer!
Where do I even start?! 🫠🤭 Drew wrote it—ALL THE STARS. ⭐️😍
Drew consistently nails stellar romance with deep truths from a biblical perspective! Esme & Noah will take you on a summer-y journey of discovery and healing, and the story within a story feeling will tease you between reality and fiction. (Which was a very fun thing, even if I figured it out pretty quick. ☺️) Plus, I’m on an amnesia kick right now, so that was also a solid hook for me!
Reverie is a dive into women’s fiction/chick-lit, and Drew made that transition seamlessly! I think I’m going to need an immediate re-read once my physical copy arrives because I just ✨know✨ there was foreshadowing I missed, and, let’s be real, who doesn’t want to hang out with Esme & Noah again and cheer on their Bora Bora romance! 🤭
If you love deep, thoughtful reads with heart-gripping godly romance, fun characters who become friends, all from a biblical worldview that tackles hard topics (like struggling with lust, setting relationship boundaries, and more) with grace and truth, Drew is your gal for encouraging entertainment for adult Christian women that always points to Jesus. 🧡
Content: (18+) lust is tackled from a biblical perspective; innuendo; making out; attempted kidnapping; discussing waking for marriage to have s*x
**so honoured to have snagged an arc copy of this gem! No positive review was required. I just love it!
Where do I even start?! 🫠🤭 Drew wrote it—ALL THE STARS. ⭐️😍
Drew consistently nails stellar romance with deep truths from a biblical perspective! Esme & Noah will take you on a summer-y journey of discovery and healing, and the story within a story feeling will tease you between reality and fiction. (Which was a very fun thing, even if I figured it out pretty quick. ☺️) Plus, I’m on an amnesia kick right now, so that was also a solid hook for me!
Reverie is a dive into women’s fiction/chick-lit, and Drew made that transition seamlessly! I think I’m going to need an immediate re-read once my physical copy arrives because I just ✨know✨ there was foreshadowing I missed, and, let’s be real, who doesn’t want to hang out with Esme & Noah again and cheer on their Bora Bora romance! 🤭
If you love deep, thoughtful reads with heart-gripping godly romance, fun characters who become friends, all from a biblical worldview that tackles hard topics (like struggling with lust, setting relationship boundaries, and more) with grace and truth, Drew is your gal for encouraging entertainment for adult Christian women that always points to Jesus. 🧡
Content: (18+) lust is tackled from a biblical perspective; innuendo; making out; attempted kidnapping; discussing waking for marriage to have s*x
**so honoured to have snagged an arc copy of this gem! No positive review was required. I just love it!
July 9, 2025
"It really frees you up, you know? Living like you believe God's plan will unfurl exactly as it should and when it should. That's the hope I cling to even when life doesn't go the way I planned it."
I've been a big Drew Taylor fan for years now (though I'm embarrassingly behind on her releases... I'm working on catching up in 2025 lol) and I'm so glad to report that I really enjoyed "Reverie"! It's the PERFECT summer read, fluffy and feel-good but with a lot of heart and a beautiful message of God's faithfulness. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way, and an ending that has me SO intrigued to see what happens next! I really came to love Esme, Noah, Ashton, and the rest, and the cameos from previous Drew Taylor stories had me fangirling!
"Reverie" got 4 stars from me!
*content warnings for a little violence, a lot of kissing, and some candid conversations about lust (and how to deal with it spiritually)
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
I've been a big Drew Taylor fan for years now (though I'm embarrassingly behind on her releases... I'm working on catching up in 2025 lol) and I'm so glad to report that I really enjoyed "Reverie"! It's the PERFECT summer read, fluffy and feel-good but with a lot of heart and a beautiful message of God's faithfulness. There are plenty of twists and turns along the way, and an ending that has me SO intrigued to see what happens next! I really came to love Esme, Noah, Ashton, and the rest, and the cameos from previous Drew Taylor stories had me fangirling!
"Reverie" got 4 stars from me!
*content warnings for a little violence, a lot of kissing, and some candid conversations about lust (and how to deal with it spiritually)
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
June 12, 2025
Drew Taylor is an auto read author for me and I was so excited to read Reverie! Right from the start I could tell it was going to be another masterpiece and boy was I right.
Esme Jenkins is an aspiring author, who after being left at the altar, goes on her honeymoon alone to Bora Bora. Currently she has amnesia and can’t remember 3 years of her life. She is crafting a romance story about a man named Noah. As she writes everything feels so real and vivid. Is it possible this man is from one of her lost memories or is the story really fiction?
This story was well written and so so good! It was unique and unlike anything I have read before. Reverie is a women's fiction romance with mystery and Christian themes. I didn’t want to put this book down! I really loved both Esme and Noah. If you like a flirty MMC then Noah is your guy. He was pretty smitten with Esme and also so devoted and respectful. I found myself laughing and giggling over his flirty comments inside of Esme's head. I loved the fun side but I loved all their deep and emotional conversations just as much. Noah and Esme’s romance is a beautiful insta - love story that is filled with longing and hope. I thought the story was perfectly paced and there were plenty of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. Drew is so good at creating Christian characters with real struggles. There were themes of trusting God, desires, and biblical views of sex before marriage. I was pretty emotionally invested in this one and when I finished I felt like I had been going through everything with the characters. I also had the worst book hangover. It was that good!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content Awareness: Attempted kidnapping, amnesia, depression, innuendos, passionate kisses.
Esme Jenkins is an aspiring author, who after being left at the altar, goes on her honeymoon alone to Bora Bora. Currently she has amnesia and can’t remember 3 years of her life. She is crafting a romance story about a man named Noah. As she writes everything feels so real and vivid. Is it possible this man is from one of her lost memories or is the story really fiction?
This story was well written and so so good! It was unique and unlike anything I have read before. Reverie is a women's fiction romance with mystery and Christian themes. I didn’t want to put this book down! I really loved both Esme and Noah. If you like a flirty MMC then Noah is your guy. He was pretty smitten with Esme and also so devoted and respectful. I found myself laughing and giggling over his flirty comments inside of Esme's head. I loved the fun side but I loved all their deep and emotional conversations just as much. Noah and Esme’s romance is a beautiful insta - love story that is filled with longing and hope. I thought the story was perfectly paced and there were plenty of twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. Drew is so good at creating Christian characters with real struggles. There were themes of trusting God, desires, and biblical views of sex before marriage. I was pretty emotionally invested in this one and when I finished I felt like I had been going through everything with the characters. I also had the worst book hangover. It was that good!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content Awareness: Attempted kidnapping, amnesia, depression, innuendos, passionate kisses.
January 21, 2026
I give this a low 4 out of 5 ⭐️ At first I was a little skeptical of this book being a "Christian Romance" novel because those two genres don't necessarily go together. It was suuuper cheesy at parts but then really captivating at others! I enjoyed the mystery aspect to it which really drew me in! Overall, I really enjoyed it! I know this is part of a series but I don't know if I would necessarily read the others. Definitely would recommend if you're not wanting to read smut but still want the love story!
October 15, 2025
I have a very strong feeling that Reverie will float about in my brain for a long while, partially because I loved the story but mostly because I am still processing some aspects of the story that surprised me! The premise of the novel is unique and the storytelling technique was a page-turner for me. I enjoyed the main and secondary characters, loved the small town vibe, and was heavily invested in their story! Looking forward to the rest of the series 💗
January 13, 2026
This was so so so good!!!!
January 25, 2026
3.5 stars. I liked the faith component of this book. Any amnesia plot lines always seem a little far fetched to me, though. Still an enjoyable read.
September 21, 2025
4.5⭐
This is how you tell a love story! It had suspense, love and faith. I loved how the characters developed and spoke to God throughout the story in a realistic way. Easy, entertaining read that will stay with me for a while
This is how you tell a love story! It had suspense, love and faith. I loved how the characters developed and spoke to God throughout the story in a realistic way. Easy, entertaining read that will stay with me for a while
May 31, 2025
I've never read a story like this before. It was written as a story within a story. This at times was a little confusing for me.
I really enjoyed the main characters Esme and Noah. Noah is super flirty and romantic! Esme has been through the ringer of life but is going forward with such strength.
There were some loose ends that should be remedied in later series.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the main characters Esme and Noah. Noah is super flirty and romantic! Esme has been through the ringer of life but is going forward with such strength.
There were some loose ends that should be remedied in later series.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
June 6, 2025
I am still trying to get over this book…I haven’t been successful! When I first read the blurb, I was excited thinking this would be a cute memory loss, rom-com style book. IT IS SO MUCH MORE!! There were twists and turns around every corner and I could not put it down. I would honestly lay awake and think of ways that the book would be resolved only to find out I was wrong and had even more questions! Don’t fear, there is a beautiful resolve at the end! But up until that point, I was sitting on the edge of my seat. And I know I have said this about Drew’s books before, but I love how she weaves Christian themes into her writing without it being “preachy”. It just comes off natural and relatable. I love when her characters talk to God because haven’t we all had those moments? I keep trying to think of more things to say without giving anything away but I can’t so y’all just need to get your hands on a copy and read it because you won’t be disappointed!
August 30, 2025
Reverie is the book that just keeps on giving! This was my third time reading it, and I was immediately hooked just like the first two times. Experiencing Esme’s story in audiobook form brought a newness to the reread experience, and I attribute so much of that not only to Drew Taylor’s beautiful writing but also to the incredible narration by Lisa Lynn Sandlin!
Sandlin brings such vibrancy to Esme. The inflection and intonation in Sandlin’s performance created a rich, emotional experience and I was totally immersed in the story.
To quote my original review:
“Buckle up, Readers, because Reverie delivers a wild ride of adventure, suspense, bold & flirty romance, and twists I didn’t see coming, from the first chapter all the way to the very last word. This is the easiest five stars I’ve ever given a book.”
And now this is the easiest five stars I’ve ever give an audiobook! Grab it on Audible today!
Intimacy: Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Some violence, panic attacks, innuendo, lust/attraction dealt with from a biblical perspective
Sandlin brings such vibrancy to Esme. The inflection and intonation in Sandlin’s performance created a rich, emotional experience and I was totally immersed in the story.
To quote my original review:
“Buckle up, Readers, because Reverie delivers a wild ride of adventure, suspense, bold & flirty romance, and twists I didn’t see coming, from the first chapter all the way to the very last word. This is the easiest five stars I’ve ever given a book.”
And now this is the easiest five stars I’ve ever give an audiobook! Grab it on Audible today!
Intimacy: Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Some violence, panic attacks, innuendo, lust/attraction dealt with from a biblical perspective
June 16, 2025
Buckle up, Readers, because Reverie delivers a wild ride of adventure, suspense, bold & flirty romance, and twists I didn’t see coming, from the first chapter all the way to the very last word. This is the easiest five stars I’ve ever given a book! With a mix of chick lit, women’s fiction, suspense, mystery, and of course, romance, Reverie has something for everyone.
This book absolutely sucked me in, and I don’t want out! It is unlike anything else I’ve read! I’m still ruminating on this story, and I’ve read it twice now! Both times, I experienced the story in a new way. My first time reading, I was on the edge of my seat, trying desperately to untangle the strands of reality vs. fiction in Esme’s story. Just when I thought I had something figured out, I was thrown for a loop and had to get my bearings again.
The second time reading might have been even more enjoyable than the first! I knew what would happen, but I savored every word, picking up on things I didn’t the first time through. Like a search-and-find book that you’ve already completed once, details popped off the page that I’d completely overlooked my first time reading, making for a completely new experience. I can’t wait for the audiobook to come out, as I know that will peel back even more layers I might have missed!
Aside from the incredible writing and storytelling capabilities of the author, can I just say how much I appreciate how Drew Taylor addresses issues like lust/attraction from a biblical perspective in her books? Like many of you, I have found her writing so refreshing for taking on previously “taboo” issues that real Christian women struggle with, while always pointing to Christ. Her characters grow and learn, and sin is never glorified. What a beautiful way to minister to Christian women and encourage us to seek Christ in our struggles!
Reverie is a must-read this summer! It releases June 17th, and is available in ebook, paperback and hardcover formats. And there just might be a couple extra surprises included with the hardcover edition, including a certain recipe from the book. Happy Reading! And if you need any emotional support while reading this book, my DMs are always open!
Intimacy: Sizzling Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Some violence, panic attacks, innuendo, lust/attraction dealt with from a biblical perspective
This book absolutely sucked me in, and I don’t want out! It is unlike anything else I’ve read! I’m still ruminating on this story, and I’ve read it twice now! Both times, I experienced the story in a new way. My first time reading, I was on the edge of my seat, trying desperately to untangle the strands of reality vs. fiction in Esme’s story. Just when I thought I had something figured out, I was thrown for a loop and had to get my bearings again.
The second time reading might have been even more enjoyable than the first! I knew what would happen, but I savored every word, picking up on things I didn’t the first time through. Like a search-and-find book that you’ve already completed once, details popped off the page that I’d completely overlooked my first time reading, making for a completely new experience. I can’t wait for the audiobook to come out, as I know that will peel back even more layers I might have missed!
Aside from the incredible writing and storytelling capabilities of the author, can I just say how much I appreciate how Drew Taylor addresses issues like lust/attraction from a biblical perspective in her books? Like many of you, I have found her writing so refreshing for taking on previously “taboo” issues that real Christian women struggle with, while always pointing to Christ. Her characters grow and learn, and sin is never glorified. What a beautiful way to minister to Christian women and encourage us to seek Christ in our struggles!
Reverie is a must-read this summer! It releases June 17th, and is available in ebook, paperback and hardcover formats. And there just might be a couple extra surprises included with the hardcover edition, including a certain recipe from the book. Happy Reading! And if you need any emotional support while reading this book, my DMs are always open!
Intimacy: Sizzling Kisses only
Language: None
Content Considerations: Some violence, panic attacks, innuendo, lust/attraction dealt with from a biblical perspective
June 20, 2025
This book was like nothing I’ve ever read before. It was absolutely amazing
June 7, 2025
I don’t know where to even begin, my stars.
Buckle up, this will be long.
This was, without a doubt, a whopper. I absolutely loved the plot and I was entirely swept away and ended up having a very unproductive day because I simply couldn’t put this book down hehe.
This story is such a colorful, chaotic story with three (?) vibrant settings, a fantastic cast of characters, and melty romance. I honestly couldn’t predict what would happen and I came close to tears on several occasions.
Also, it’s worth mentioning, I finished his book an entire week ago and I am STILL ruminating over these beautiful characters. Just wow.
Talk about a book hangover.
Drew Taylor is NOT afraid to tackle the hoOot topics in the “clean” romance genre and her themes were phenomenal.
This book made me gasp, tear up, laugh (like a lottt) and think. That’s a tough thing to accomplish in a single book.
It was like a romcom, but *so* much deeper.
I’m still baffled by the sheer outlandishness of this book and how it was everything I needed it to be yet nothing like I expected.
Ok. The romance. NEVER have I ever read an insta love that MADE sense. Like I could feel them falling in love, I could sense their chemistry and instant connection. It was like I was there. Watching it unfold. Nothing unrealistic about it.
I’ve been truly swept off my feet.
Ok, now to the nitty gritty…
While I absolutely LOVED this book, I do have a few personal issues, that might not be of any consequence to most people:)
First off, the physical aspect was a little much for me—granted while the scenes (I’ll touch the content of these below ⬇️) themselves made me a bit uncomfortable, it was actually a different aspect that I disagreed with.
The main characters are in love, like, really really in love, and they want to wait until marriage.
Awesome. I’m all for that.
My issue was that, if you want to stay out of the fire on the other side of the fence, you don’t march up right to the fence where you can smell the smoke and the fire could easily spread and consume you.
Do you catch my drift?
While the author certainly dealt with the concept of lust and how to keep pure thoughts towards another person, I felt like the characters came verrry close to the line and it could have easily been crossed.
Easily.
Now I don’t want to sound like a prude and I know this is a romance book, but in real life, if you’re in a relationship and you want to wait til marriage, you probably don’t wanna be making out alone in a bungalow or staying the night with them.
Just saying.
All that good stuff will come in time but why risk it?
No boundary will be easy to keep, but there is a scale. Not only that, but I think the boundaries that the characters kept elicited desire that could have been avoided.
Anyway.
My *only* other complaint is titled “vanilla”
Something I absolutely loved was Esme’s journey from just settling, to reaching for something out of this world, a gift from God, even when there was a risk.
Do I hear a but?
Yes, yes you do.
I have friends who have decided to date someone they in initially thought was vanilla and maybe didn’t have all the feels for, but they said it yes. Not because they thought it was their only chance, but because they genuinely felt God leading them towards this.
And guess what? Slowly but surely those feeling exploded, and it was beautiful.
So I suppose I just felt like this pushed a bit of an agenda that you need to wait until someone comes along and instantly gives you all the feels. And if he doesn’t, he’s vanilla and you’re settling.
I’m sure this isn’t what the author intended, but it felt like this nonetheless :)
I’ve known people that have such high expectations for this kinda thing they end up missing out on what could have turned into a beautiful love story with a wonderful person and the feels and butterflies and head-over-heels love would have come.
They thought they were vanilla.
Not trying to be a debby downer because I TOTALLY believe in true love and emotion and adventure. But in this romcom saturated world we tend to expect something crazy to happen when sometimes we just need to be patient and let feelings grow. Take a chance on someone. See what happens.
God created every person differently. Vanilla almost always has bursting flavor if you just take a bite. (Though maybe not literally? I mean it depends on your boundaries 😅)
*coughs*
Maybe it’s because of these 2nd hand experiences that I am so passionate about this. 😂
Not sure if any of that made sense but those are my chaotic thoughts.
All things said, I genuinely loved this story so so much. I really hope the rant didn’t cast it in bad light. I just love to rant too much. I can’t help it.
But truly, this book is going in best reads of 2025.
*I received a complimentary review from the author (thank you Drew Taylor!!) I was not required to write a positive review.
Buckle up, this will be long.
This was, without a doubt, a whopper. I absolutely loved the plot and I was entirely swept away and ended up having a very unproductive day because I simply couldn’t put this book down hehe.
This story is such a colorful, chaotic story with three (?) vibrant settings, a fantastic cast of characters, and melty romance. I honestly couldn’t predict what would happen and I came close to tears on several occasions.
Also, it’s worth mentioning, I finished his book an entire week ago and I am STILL ruminating over these beautiful characters. Just wow.
Talk about a book hangover.
Drew Taylor is NOT afraid to tackle the hoOot topics in the “clean” romance genre and her themes were phenomenal.
This book made me gasp, tear up, laugh (like a lottt) and think. That’s a tough thing to accomplish in a single book.
It was like a romcom, but *so* much deeper.
I’m still baffled by the sheer outlandishness of this book and how it was everything I needed it to be yet nothing like I expected.
Ok. The romance. NEVER have I ever read an insta love that MADE sense. Like I could feel them falling in love, I could sense their chemistry and instant connection. It was like I was there. Watching it unfold. Nothing unrealistic about it.
I’ve been truly swept off my feet.
Ok, now to the nitty gritty…
While I absolutely LOVED this book, I do have a few personal issues, that might not be of any consequence to most people:)
First off, the physical aspect was a little much for me—granted while the scenes (I’ll touch the content of these below ⬇️) themselves made me a bit uncomfortable, it was actually a different aspect that I disagreed with.
The main characters are in love, like, really really in love, and they want to wait until marriage.
Awesome. I’m all for that.
My issue was that, if you want to stay out of the fire on the other side of the fence, you don’t march up right to the fence where you can smell the smoke and the fire could easily spread and consume you.
Do you catch my drift?
While the author certainly dealt with the concept of lust and how to keep pure thoughts towards another person, I felt like the characters came verrry close to the line and it could have easily been crossed.
Easily.
Now I don’t want to sound like a prude and I know this is a romance book, but in real life, if you’re in a relationship and you want to wait til marriage, you probably don’t wanna be making out alone in a bungalow or staying the night with them.
Just saying.
All that good stuff will come in time but why risk it?
No boundary will be easy to keep, but there is a scale. Not only that, but I think the boundaries that the characters kept elicited desire that could have been avoided.
Anyway.
My *only* other complaint is titled “vanilla”
Something I absolutely loved was Esme’s journey from just settling, to reaching for something out of this world, a gift from God, even when there was a risk.
Do I hear a but?
Yes, yes you do.
I have friends who have decided to date someone they in initially thought was vanilla and maybe didn’t have all the feels for, but they said it yes. Not because they thought it was their only chance, but because they genuinely felt God leading them towards this.
And guess what? Slowly but surely those feeling exploded, and it was beautiful.
So I suppose I just felt like this pushed a bit of an agenda that you need to wait until someone comes along and instantly gives you all the feels. And if he doesn’t, he’s vanilla and you’re settling.
I’m sure this isn’t what the author intended, but it felt like this nonetheless :)
I’ve known people that have such high expectations for this kinda thing they end up missing out on what could have turned into a beautiful love story with a wonderful person and the feels and butterflies and head-over-heels love would have come.
They thought they were vanilla.
Not trying to be a debby downer because I TOTALLY believe in true love and emotion and adventure. But in this romcom saturated world we tend to expect something crazy to happen when sometimes we just need to be patient and let feelings grow. Take a chance on someone. See what happens.
God created every person differently. Vanilla almost always has bursting flavor if you just take a bite. (Though maybe not literally? I mean it depends on your boundaries 😅)
*coughs*
Maybe it’s because of these 2nd hand experiences that I am so passionate about this. 😂
Not sure if any of that made sense but those are my chaotic thoughts.
All things said, I genuinely loved this story so so much. I really hope the rant didn’t cast it in bad light. I just love to rant too much. I can’t help it.
But truly, this book is going in best reads of 2025.
*I received a complimentary review from the author (thank you Drew Taylor!!) I was not required to write a positive review.
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