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The Summerhills #5
Once Upon a Dream
Over 3.5 million readers have fallen in love with the women in Kate Perry's bestselling Laurel Heights series. Now live the dream with her Summerhill sisters...
Summerhill, Book 5
Summer Welles wants the fairy tale.
The illegitimate daughter of Reginald Summerhill, the Earl of Amberlin, she listened to her mother's stories about the Summerhill girls all her life. In her mind, Summer was part of the stories too—living in the castle, wearing fancy dresses, and falling in love with Prince Charming.
Her wish came true. Mostly. She lives in the Summerhill mansion. She has stepsisters—nice ones who don't make her clean the chimney. She even has a magical wedding dress waiting for her special day. The only thing missing is the perfect man.
She knows exactly who he is, and she's going to confront him at the annual Midnight Masquerade Ball. What Summer didn't count on was mistaking a masked frog for her prince.
Once she kisses the mysterious man, he won't go away. And he's not sweet or charming or princely. He seems more interested in ravishing her rather than riding off into the sunset with her, and—worse—she's tempted to let him.
Her fairy tale at stake, Summer's faced with her own quest that neither frog nor prince can rescue her sacrifice her Happily Ever After, or turn her back on the one man who makes her feel alive?
Fall in love with the Summerhills...
Book 1: SAY YOU WILL
Book 2: LOST IN LOVE
Book 3: LET'S MISBEHAVE
Book 4: STAY THE NIGHT
Book 5: ONCE UPON A DREAM
Take a trip to San Francisco's Laurel
Book 1: PERFECT FOR YOU
Book 2: CLOSE TO YOU
Book 3: RETURN TO YOU
Book 4: LOOKING FOR YOU
Book 5: DREAM OF YOU
Book 6: SWEET ON YOU
Book 7: TAMED BY YOU
Book 8: HERE WITH YOU
ALL FOR YOU
Book 9: MAD ABOUT YOU
Book 10: LOVED BY YOU
Like strong independent women and the sexy alpha heroes who love them? Are you a fan of the greats like Bella Andre, Kristan Higgins, and Marie Force? Then try Kate's quirky romances. We think you'll love them, too.
"Kate Perry is on my auto buy list." –Night Owl Romance
"Hot! Recommended!" –Bookpleasures
"Kate's brilliant, as evidenced by the fact that she married me." - the Magic Man, Kate's husband
"I can't help the ear-to-ear smile I have plastered to my face when reading any of Kate's books… She makes me laugh out loud, even on a crowded bus!"–Donna, Public Transit Romance Reviewer
"Perry's storytelling skills just keep getting better and better!" –Romantic Times Book Reviews
"Kate's writing is fluid, with a touch of sexiness and loads of romance, just what you need to relax after a long, hard-working day."–Gabby, Romance Reader Extraordinaire
"Kate writes books?" –Kia, Kate's brother
"Kate Perry's Laurel Heights series is of my most guilty pleasures. ;) Keep on keepin' on and kickin' ass!" –R, Closet Romance Fan
"Reading Kate Perry's books is my favorite way to spend an afternoon (well..okay, my second favorite way, the husband insists I clarify...)" –M.W., Bedroom Enthusiast
"A winning and entertaining combination of humor and pathos." –Booklist
Summerhill, Book 5
Summer Welles wants the fairy tale.
The illegitimate daughter of Reginald Summerhill, the Earl of Amberlin, she listened to her mother's stories about the Summerhill girls all her life. In her mind, Summer was part of the stories too—living in the castle, wearing fancy dresses, and falling in love with Prince Charming.
Her wish came true. Mostly. She lives in the Summerhill mansion. She has stepsisters—nice ones who don't make her clean the chimney. She even has a magical wedding dress waiting for her special day. The only thing missing is the perfect man.
She knows exactly who he is, and she's going to confront him at the annual Midnight Masquerade Ball. What Summer didn't count on was mistaking a masked frog for her prince.
Once she kisses the mysterious man, he won't go away. And he's not sweet or charming or princely. He seems more interested in ravishing her rather than riding off into the sunset with her, and—worse—she's tempted to let him.
Her fairy tale at stake, Summer's faced with her own quest that neither frog nor prince can rescue her sacrifice her Happily Ever After, or turn her back on the one man who makes her feel alive?
Fall in love with the Summerhills...
Book 1: SAY YOU WILL
Book 2: LOST IN LOVE
Book 3: LET'S MISBEHAVE
Book 4: STAY THE NIGHT
Book 5: ONCE UPON A DREAM
Take a trip to San Francisco's Laurel
Book 1: PERFECT FOR YOU
Book 2: CLOSE TO YOU
Book 3: RETURN TO YOU
Book 4: LOOKING FOR YOU
Book 5: DREAM OF YOU
Book 6: SWEET ON YOU
Book 7: TAMED BY YOU
Book 8: HERE WITH YOU
ALL FOR YOU
Book 9: MAD ABOUT YOU
Book 10: LOVED BY YOU
Like strong independent women and the sexy alpha heroes who love them? Are you a fan of the greats like Bella Andre, Kristan Higgins, and Marie Force? Then try Kate's quirky romances. We think you'll love them, too.
"Kate Perry is on my auto buy list." –Night Owl Romance
"Hot! Recommended!" –Bookpleasures
"Kate's brilliant, as evidenced by the fact that she married me." - the Magic Man, Kate's husband
"I can't help the ear-to-ear smile I have plastered to my face when reading any of Kate's books… She makes me laugh out loud, even on a crowded bus!"–Donna, Public Transit Romance Reviewer
"Perry's storytelling skills just keep getting better and better!" –Romantic Times Book Reviews
"Kate's writing is fluid, with a touch of sexiness and loads of romance, just what you need to relax after a long, hard-working day."–Gabby, Romance Reader Extraordinaire
"Kate writes books?" –Kia, Kate's brother
"Kate Perry's Laurel Heights series is of my most guilty pleasures. ;) Keep on keepin' on and kickin' ass!" –R, Closet Romance Fan
"Reading Kate Perry's books is my favorite way to spend an afternoon (well..okay, my second favorite way, the husband insists I clarify...)" –M.W., Bedroom Enthusiast
"A winning and entertaining combination of humor and pathos." –Booklist
277 pages, ebook
First published September 14, 2014
77 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Kate Perry
64 books1,539 followersWith over 6 million books sold (and counting), Kathia’s novels have been #1 bestsellers around the world. They’ve received starred reviews from Booklist, have consistently earned Editor’s Picks for Best Romance, and have been featured by O, The Oprah Magazine and Entertainment Weekly.
Kate (aka Kathia) has written over 50 romcom and paranormal books so far, as well as a couple romantasy screenplays and various poems (her ode to the color orange is particularly moving). Full of hope and bonds of found family and friendship, her stories feature sassy, independent women who just want love and earthy men full of heart who are more than able to rise to the occasion.
Kate (aka Kathia) has written over 50 romcom and paranormal books so far, as well as a couple romantasy screenplays and various poems (her ode to the color orange is particularly moving). Full of hope and bonds of found family and friendship, her stories feature sassy, independent women who just want love and earthy men full of heart who are more than able to rise to the occasion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 26, 2014
Source: ARC from author
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Summer Welles is a well-appointed attorney by day and a dreamer by night. Since she was a child, her mother (Reginald Summerhill’s mistress) told her she would one day find her prince charming and when she did, the first kiss would tell her everything. For her entire life Summer has lived and believed in the fairy tale and she has finally found her prince charming. Too bad she can’t drum up the courage to talk to him.
Ryan Huber is everything Summer wants in a man: he is well dressed, well mannered, intelligent, successful and, dead sexy. He works just down the hall from Summer’s law office and though they have shared an elevator (sorry, lift ) on more than one occasion, they have never spoken a word to one another. Summer’s courage is on the rise though and once she convinces Ryan that he is meant to be hers, the fairy tale will be complete and Summer will finally have her HEA. The plan is in motion and with the help of her Summerhill (half)sisters, Summer will bag her man in one magical moment.
Jon Smith has lived a dangerous life since he was a child and now it is time to get out. Jon’s job has been lucrative, at times exciting, mostly dangerous and, above all else solitary. Jon’s dream of retiring to Thailand is within reach and with just one job left on his schedule, he can be on his island within the month. All he has to do is prove, irrefutably that Ryan Huber is lying, scheming criminal who has been embezzling money from his clients for years. Jon’s mission is clear and simple and once it is done he is free. What Jon doesn’t count on, on any level is Summer Welles. But, in one most unforeseen moment his identity is mistaken, Summer is kissing him and, everything in Jon’s world is turned upside down.
For Summer the moment of mistaken identity is both the best and the worst moment of her entire life. The kiss told her absolutely everything she needs to know about her prince charming. Unfortunately, that kiss told her everything she needs to know about the wrong man and that man is out to destroy her true prince charming. Determined to prove Jon wrong, prove that Ryan is actually not a slimy bastard and, have her HEA, Summer begins to tag along behind Jon in an attempt to “help” him. In yet another unfortunate turn of events, Summer finds herself more and more drawn to Jon and just doesn’t know how she can possibly salvage the situation. What’s more, her sisters keep trying to convince her that maybe, just maybe her prince charming isn’t the guy she thought but someone altogether un-prince-like.
The Bottom Line: Since the beginning, the Summerhill series has been a favorite but Once Upon a Dream just didn’t really do it for me. I certainly don’t mind that Summer has been brought into the fold and when she is being a lawyer, a sister or with Jon, I was OK with her. Unfortunately, there was just too much of Summer’s ridiculous prince charming business. Given Summer’s general personality and insistence on manners and professionalism, I would have liked and expected to see a bit more maturity regarding her dreams and expectations. Her general naïveté and childlike insistence that her fairy tale will come true just doesn’t fit with Summer’s personality – a personality we have had glimpses of in each of the previous four reads. On the flip side of Summer are all the other characters that I once again very much enjoyed. Jon is a delight and it is always nice to see a hardened and cynical character changed by a new and exciting love. The Summerhill girls were also in fine form with Imogen sweeping in is dramatic fashion (oooh! The epilogue!), Titania snapping photographs and being a general smartass, Bea taking care of everything (and refusing to acknowledge Luca), Ros dressing everyone, Viola trying to find herself (baker, bartender. . . ) and, Jacqueline discovering love again after so, so many years without. In all, Jon and the secondary characters really carried this story for me and though I was a bit disappointed in Summer, I was still able to like the read.
My Rating: 3/5 stars
My Review:
Summer Welles is a well-appointed attorney by day and a dreamer by night. Since she was a child, her mother (Reginald Summerhill’s mistress) told her she would one day find her prince charming and when she did, the first kiss would tell her everything. For her entire life Summer has lived and believed in the fairy tale and she has finally found her prince charming. Too bad she can’t drum up the courage to talk to him.
Ryan Huber is everything Summer wants in a man: he is well dressed, well mannered, intelligent, successful and, dead sexy. He works just down the hall from Summer’s law office and though they have shared an elevator (sorry, lift ) on more than one occasion, they have never spoken a word to one another. Summer’s courage is on the rise though and once she convinces Ryan that he is meant to be hers, the fairy tale will be complete and Summer will finally have her HEA. The plan is in motion and with the help of her Summerhill (half)sisters, Summer will bag her man in one magical moment.
Jon Smith has lived a dangerous life since he was a child and now it is time to get out. Jon’s job has been lucrative, at times exciting, mostly dangerous and, above all else solitary. Jon’s dream of retiring to Thailand is within reach and with just one job left on his schedule, he can be on his island within the month. All he has to do is prove, irrefutably that Ryan Huber is lying, scheming criminal who has been embezzling money from his clients for years. Jon’s mission is clear and simple and once it is done he is free. What Jon doesn’t count on, on any level is Summer Welles. But, in one most unforeseen moment his identity is mistaken, Summer is kissing him and, everything in Jon’s world is turned upside down.
For Summer the moment of mistaken identity is both the best and the worst moment of her entire life. The kiss told her absolutely everything she needs to know about her prince charming. Unfortunately, that kiss told her everything she needs to know about the wrong man and that man is out to destroy her true prince charming. Determined to prove Jon wrong, prove that Ryan is actually not a slimy bastard and, have her HEA, Summer begins to tag along behind Jon in an attempt to “help” him. In yet another unfortunate turn of events, Summer finds herself more and more drawn to Jon and just doesn’t know how she can possibly salvage the situation. What’s more, her sisters keep trying to convince her that maybe, just maybe her prince charming isn’t the guy she thought but someone altogether un-prince-like.
The Bottom Line: Since the beginning, the Summerhill series has been a favorite but Once Upon a Dream just didn’t really do it for me. I certainly don’t mind that Summer has been brought into the fold and when she is being a lawyer, a sister or with Jon, I was OK with her. Unfortunately, there was just too much of Summer’s ridiculous prince charming business. Given Summer’s general personality and insistence on manners and professionalism, I would have liked and expected to see a bit more maturity regarding her dreams and expectations. Her general naïveté and childlike insistence that her fairy tale will come true just doesn’t fit with Summer’s personality – a personality we have had glimpses of in each of the previous four reads. On the flip side of Summer are all the other characters that I once again very much enjoyed. Jon is a delight and it is always nice to see a hardened and cynical character changed by a new and exciting love. The Summerhill girls were also in fine form with Imogen sweeping in is dramatic fashion (oooh! The epilogue!), Titania snapping photographs and being a general smartass, Bea taking care of everything (and refusing to acknowledge Luca), Ros dressing everyone, Viola trying to find herself (baker, bartender. . . ) and, Jacqueline discovering love again after so, so many years without. In all, Jon and the secondary characters really carried this story for me and though I was a bit disappointed in Summer, I was still able to like the read.
September 15, 2014
I had just finished a rather terrible book and I was needing a book to restore my love of reading. It was like fate had smiled at me and informed me that there was a new Kate Perry Novel waiting for me! It took me only a few hours to read it and I realized why I love to read so much. Sometimes you come across an author who really knows how to tell a story.
I've read everyone of Kate Perry's books and this was such a great addition. I loved that there were multiple stories and that we found out more about Jacqueline (no spoilers). I can not wait until the next in the series. The only negative thing to say would be that I'm totally bummed it's finished and that now I have to find another book to read:(
I've read everyone of Kate Perry's books and this was such a great addition. I loved that there were multiple stories and that we found out more about Jacqueline (no spoilers). I can not wait until the next in the series. The only negative thing to say would be that I'm totally bummed it's finished and that now I have to find another book to read:(
July 27, 2017
I liked this book. Maybe not as well as the other book in the series I read, but I still enjoyed it. I wish the author would have spent more time on Jon and Summer's characters, instead of devoting so much time to Jacqueline and Declan's side story. I felt like we could have gotten to know Summer and Jon a little better.
October 14, 2021
Probably my least favourite of the series. Summer comes across as a naive fool with her believing her 'Prince Charming' is a man she's never even spoken to. Not to mention her questionable morals when she planned to kiss the man despite him having a girlfriend. Hard to believe a lawyer would believe in fairytales although Summer wasn't actually believable as a lawyer anyway. She went to the office but we weren't told about her doing any specific work there.
Jon was more interesting and the chemistry with Summer was ok. The resolution of the embezzlement case Jon was working on was rather unrealistic but I get that this story isn't meant to be taken too seriously.
Jon was more interesting and the chemistry with Summer was ok. The resolution of the embezzlement case Jon was working on was rather unrealistic but I get that this story isn't meant to be taken too seriously.
July 8, 2017
2.5
I didn't connect with this book as much as I was hoping to. While the writing and characters were good and interesting, I felt like this was a series I'd needed to read from the beginning to actually get a sense of the stories and characters. I felt like from the beginning I was coming into it in the middle of a story in progress and because of that I never connected fully with what was going on.
I didn't connect with this book as much as I was hoping to. While the writing and characters were good and interesting, I felt like this was a series I'd needed to read from the beginning to actually get a sense of the stories and characters. I felt like from the beginning I was coming into it in the middle of a story in progress and because of that I never connected fully with what was going on.
February 11, 2022
This book was unable to hold my interest.
October 9, 2014
I received an copy of this book in exchange for honest review*
Once Upon a Dream is the fifth book in the Summerhill series by the lovely Kate Perry, and as always I love spending an afternoon with the Summerhill clan.
Summer Welles The illegitimate daughter of Reginald Summerhill. She is a smart, strong, independent, and beautiful lawyer, a little prim and proper maybe, likes to wear black most of the time, but she a true a romantic at heart. Her mother had always told her that she would find her prince charming. Summer believes she has found her Prince Charming, the man who she was going to marry! Her happily ever after! But is he really her prince charming or maybe some else is!! Some who to her is more like a frog.
Once Upon a Dream was about taking chances, acceptance, second chances, trust, and discovering who you are. Summer was a great character I felt a connection to her. I loved being on her journey as discovers that her road to her happy ever after, may be a little different than she imagines. Love the interactions with her sexy alpha frog!! He was great, and I loved how he showed her what falling in love feels like.
I loved that we got more Jacqueline during this story I wasn’t expecting her story so it was a nice surprise. She's been estranged from her daughters for many years, but It was lovely to see their relationship changing and seeing how close they were becoming. She has a second chance at love, and one, which she deserves. I was certainly thinking at one-point woohoo!! You go Jacqueline!
I loved how the other Summerhill sisters were woven into the story; you can see how close that have all become. Loved the witty banter they share. I'm looking forward to reading Viola’s story next as I’m intrigued to see who her leading man will be. I know the man who I would like it to be, but I’m not sure if it will be him.
Overall Once Upon a Dream had everything I expect in a well-written romance story, wonderful characters, and romantic tension. It’s an entertaining, lighthearted steamy, romantic read that can be read as a standalone. But as always I recommend that you read the rest of the series first to encounter and get the background knowledge of the rest of the Summerhill family. Kate Perry is such a great storyteller, love her books, and this one was a great addition to the series.
One last note, I must say well-done to Kate, as I'm always grateful when a US author takes the time to research words that the English (that would be me) use. Seeing words like Shag, Wanker, Fancy and Bugger used in the correct context made me smile and laugh.
"The fairy princess always goes through tests, to prove that she's worthy of the prince. This is just a quest I have to go through on my way toward happily ever after."
“Each time his lip touch her he had an uncontrollable urge to rip her clothes off and lose himself in her”
“Maybe it's time to stop thinking and to just to with what you feel”
"Maybe she should kiss him again and see if he turned into a prince…..Truthfully, she just wanted to kiss him again"
Once Upon a Dream is the fifth book in the Summerhill series by the lovely Kate Perry, and as always I love spending an afternoon with the Summerhill clan.
Summer Welles The illegitimate daughter of Reginald Summerhill. She is a smart, strong, independent, and beautiful lawyer, a little prim and proper maybe, likes to wear black most of the time, but she a true a romantic at heart. Her mother had always told her that she would find her prince charming. Summer believes she has found her Prince Charming, the man who she was going to marry! Her happily ever after! But is he really her prince charming or maybe some else is!! Some who to her is more like a frog.
Once Upon a Dream was about taking chances, acceptance, second chances, trust, and discovering who you are. Summer was a great character I felt a connection to her. I loved being on her journey as discovers that her road to her happy ever after, may be a little different than she imagines. Love the interactions with her sexy alpha frog!! He was great, and I loved how he showed her what falling in love feels like.
I loved that we got more Jacqueline during this story I wasn’t expecting her story so it was a nice surprise. She's been estranged from her daughters for many years, but It was lovely to see their relationship changing and seeing how close they were becoming. She has a second chance at love, and one, which she deserves. I was certainly thinking at one-point woohoo!! You go Jacqueline!
I loved how the other Summerhill sisters were woven into the story; you can see how close that have all become. Loved the witty banter they share. I'm looking forward to reading Viola’s story next as I’m intrigued to see who her leading man will be. I know the man who I would like it to be, but I’m not sure if it will be him.
Overall Once Upon a Dream had everything I expect in a well-written romance story, wonderful characters, and romantic tension. It’s an entertaining, lighthearted steamy, romantic read that can be read as a standalone. But as always I recommend that you read the rest of the series first to encounter and get the background knowledge of the rest of the Summerhill family. Kate Perry is such a great storyteller, love her books, and this one was a great addition to the series.
One last note, I must say well-done to Kate, as I'm always grateful when a US author takes the time to research words that the English (that would be me) use. Seeing words like Shag, Wanker, Fancy and Bugger used in the correct context made me smile and laugh.
"The fairy princess always goes through tests, to prove that she's worthy of the prince. This is just a quest I have to go through on my way toward happily ever after."
“Each time his lip touch her he had an uncontrollable urge to rip her clothes off and lose himself in her”
“Maybe it's time to stop thinking and to just to with what you feel”
"Maybe she should kiss him again and see if he turned into a prince…..Truthfully, she just wanted to kiss him again"
September 17, 2014
I have read and enjoyed every single one of Kate Perry’s books. She has an awe-inspiring library of books and characters to adore. I have recently loved meeting the Summerhill sisters and reading about the time they spend together. Although the books have been delightful, without a doubt Once Upon a Dream is my favorite. It’s a light-hearted and sexy story about taking a second chance at life and love after you make all the wrong decisions the first time around.
This book is about Summer and Jacqueline finding their way in love and their place in the family. Even though they’re at completely different stages in their lives, they’re both discovering who they are and what falling in love means versus choosing the person you think you should love. They are on the same journey, finally going after what they think they want and to find happiness.
I thought the author balanced out these two amazing woman with accomplished and incredibly desirable men. The only trouble is they are tough nuts to crack – having had painful experiences with love in their pasts that have left them slow to trust. However, when their lives suddenly are filled with stolen moments of passion and witty banter – they are ultimately unable to resist the Summerhill women. It’s captivating – each encounter and kiss between either of the couples leaves you turning the page, wanting more.
In my opinion for the last four books Summer and Jacqueline have always been the two real outsiders of this interesting and eclectic accumulation of characters. They have both quietly observed and rarely participated in the group’s adventures. All the while silently wishing and wanting to be more accepted and included. It’s nice that they’re finally realizing the only thing keeping them from being included is them.
Once Upon a Dream is the fifth book in the Summerhill Sisters Series and I strongly recommend that you read it and the entire series. It is an enchanting and romantic book – you will fall in love with Summer and you’ll be happy for Jacqueline.
This book is about Summer and Jacqueline finding their way in love and their place in the family. Even though they’re at completely different stages in their lives, they’re both discovering who they are and what falling in love means versus choosing the person you think you should love. They are on the same journey, finally going after what they think they want and to find happiness.
I thought the author balanced out these two amazing woman with accomplished and incredibly desirable men. The only trouble is they are tough nuts to crack – having had painful experiences with love in their pasts that have left them slow to trust. However, when their lives suddenly are filled with stolen moments of passion and witty banter – they are ultimately unable to resist the Summerhill women. It’s captivating – each encounter and kiss between either of the couples leaves you turning the page, wanting more.
In my opinion for the last four books Summer and Jacqueline have always been the two real outsiders of this interesting and eclectic accumulation of characters. They have both quietly observed and rarely participated in the group’s adventures. All the while silently wishing and wanting to be more accepted and included. It’s nice that they’re finally realizing the only thing keeping them from being included is them.
Once Upon a Dream is the fifth book in the Summerhill Sisters Series and I strongly recommend that you read it and the entire series. It is an enchanting and romantic book – you will fall in love with Summer and you’ll be happy for Jacqueline.
February 19, 2017
4.5 stars
September 20, 2015
This was a fun and enjoyable read. It can be read as a standalone, but it may take some effort to get to know who all of the characters are. The author does a good job meshing them all in and there are a lot of them!
This is the story of Summer and Jon. Summer is the daughter of an Earl and a product of an affair he had with her mother. They have both passed on and now she has been taken in by the Earl's widow and her daughters. Jacqueline is open hearted and takes her in as one of her own and the sisters seem to follow suite. Summer is a lawyer and she is hopelessly in love with a man that does not know she exists. She lives by something her mother told her before her death...fairytale kisses, Prince Charming and happily ever after. She is certain that Ryan Huber is "the one" she just has to kiss him. She hold fast to this notion until the masked ball...her prince may have just turned into the frog?
Jon Smith is a mercenary. He is ready to be done with this life and retire. He seeks peace and tranquility in Thailand and plans to do that after this last job is done. He owes a final debt to an old friend. Once he proves that Ryan Huber is stealing money from client accounts he is done! He just didn't count on a spunky romantic getting in his way and changing his world.
These two are good together. They had passion, compassion and a true longing for each other. He gave her the perfect kiss she dreamt of and she allowed him to let his past stay were it belonged. They just had to give in and let it happen.
This was a great story with a lot of secondary action going on. We not only enjoy Summer and Jon, but Jacqueline starts to get her happily ever after....⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the story of Summer and Jon. Summer is the daughter of an Earl and a product of an affair he had with her mother. They have both passed on and now she has been taken in by the Earl's widow and her daughters. Jacqueline is open hearted and takes her in as one of her own and the sisters seem to follow suite. Summer is a lawyer and she is hopelessly in love with a man that does not know she exists. She lives by something her mother told her before her death...fairytale kisses, Prince Charming and happily ever after. She is certain that Ryan Huber is "the one" she just has to kiss him. She hold fast to this notion until the masked ball...her prince may have just turned into the frog?
Jon Smith is a mercenary. He is ready to be done with this life and retire. He seeks peace and tranquility in Thailand and plans to do that after this last job is done. He owes a final debt to an old friend. Once he proves that Ryan Huber is stealing money from client accounts he is done! He just didn't count on a spunky romantic getting in his way and changing his world.
These two are good together. They had passion, compassion and a true longing for each other. He gave her the perfect kiss she dreamt of and she allowed him to let his past stay were it belonged. They just had to give in and let it happen.
This was a great story with a lot of secondary action going on. We not only enjoy Summer and Jon, but Jacqueline starts to get her happily ever after....⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 29, 2015
All of Summer Welles' fairytale dreams have come true now that she has finally found her prince charming. He's handsome, generous, smart, wealthy and he works in the same building as she does. Too bad he doesn't know she exists. Summer has a plan to change that at the annual Midnight Masquerade Ball, but the plan doesn't go smoothly when she mistakenly kisses another man. Now Summer must decide whether to continue trying to follow her fairytale or abandon it for another type of dream.
Once Upon a Dream was a fun, romantic read. I really enjoyed how Kate Perry took the idea of a young woman believing she was going to meet her prince and mixed things up. I felt that it was really relevant to popular culture and the abundance of princess movies, books, etc. that influence girls. I also loved the parts of Jacqueline's story that were woven into Once Upon a Dream. I found myself wishing she had her own book! It was great to have some insight into her life and choices.
The only thing I didn't like was that it was over before I knew it and now I'm stuck waiting for Viola's story in How Sweet It Is. I want to read it now!
If you love reading contemporary romance, I highly suggest Once Upon a Dream or any other of Kate Perry's books. They're exceptionally written and can be read in order or stand alone.
A big thank you to Kate Perry for allowing me to be part of Team Kate and read and honestly review a Review Copy of Once Upon a Dream!
Once Upon a Dream was a fun, romantic read. I really enjoyed how Kate Perry took the idea of a young woman believing she was going to meet her prince and mixed things up. I felt that it was really relevant to popular culture and the abundance of princess movies, books, etc. that influence girls. I also loved the parts of Jacqueline's story that were woven into Once Upon a Dream. I found myself wishing she had her own book! It was great to have some insight into her life and choices.
The only thing I didn't like was that it was over before I knew it and now I'm stuck waiting for Viola's story in How Sweet It Is. I want to read it now!
If you love reading contemporary romance, I highly suggest Once Upon a Dream or any other of Kate Perry's books. They're exceptionally written and can be read in order or stand alone.
A big thank you to Kate Perry for allowing me to be part of Team Kate and read and honestly review a Review Copy of Once Upon a Dream!
September 22, 2014
This is really 2.5 stars and I generously rounded up.
So this author has this formula for her books: there's a primary story where we learn about both characters because the story shows both POVs; and there's a secondary story typically told from a single POV about a secondary character.
In this case, the primary story is about Summer finding her prince charming and there's a whole thing about kissing the frog instead because the prince is a liar and a thief and the frog is a mercenary (say what??) who's investigating said prince. WHAT?? Was the author on drugs?? Race car drivers, soccer players, politicians, real estate moguls I can get. Did she run out of ideas?? And what does this mercenary/investigator have in common with Summer? I have no idea.
What was very disappointing was Lady Jacqueline as the secondary story. Jacqs is an intriguing character and was given short shrift in this book.
I'm guessing there's one more book about Viola and if she doesn't end up with Rowdy or if he isn't given an HEA I will scream. I"m really enjoying Chloe and I'd love to read her POV about her aunts and maybe she can get a teen love interest?
It would be nice also to see Rosalind finally marry Nick. It's been 5 books already, come on.
So this author has this formula for her books: there's a primary story where we learn about both characters because the story shows both POVs; and there's a secondary story typically told from a single POV about a secondary character.
In this case, the primary story is about Summer finding her prince charming and there's a whole thing about kissing the frog instead because the prince is a liar and a thief and the frog is a mercenary (say what??) who's investigating said prince. WHAT?? Was the author on drugs?? Race car drivers, soccer players, politicians, real estate moguls I can get. Did she run out of ideas?? And what does this mercenary/investigator have in common with Summer? I have no idea.
What was very disappointing was Lady Jacqueline as the secondary story. Jacqs is an intriguing character and was given short shrift in this book.
I'm guessing there's one more book about Viola and if she doesn't end up with Rowdy or if he isn't given an HEA I will scream. I"m really enjoying Chloe and I'd love to read her POV about her aunts and maybe she can get a teen love interest?
It would be nice also to see Rosalind finally marry Nick. It's been 5 books already, come on.
September 30, 2014
Once Upon a Dream Is Summer's story, the half sister of the other Summerhill girls, but they have taken her in as one of their own. Growing up her mother always told her that her life would end a fairytale, she would have everything and a prince to boot. Summer thinks she has found this in Ryan Huber, who works at the Investment Firm down the hall from her office. Jon Smith has been asked by his friend Edward Bradley, in payment of a debt, to investigate Ryan Huber who he feels is stealing money from their clients. Through misunderstandings and a masked ball Summer thought Jon was Ryan and he thought Summer was Ryan's fiance. They get that cleared up and their is this attraction between the 2 of them, yet Summer can't believe her Prince, Ryan is a thief. As always Kate provides us with a sub love story, this is of Jacqueline and Declan, the man she left to marry the girls father. I always have a fondness for the sub or 2nd story in Kate's books and often yearn for more from them. This was a great read, I had the pages turning to get to the end. I love these Summerhill women and the men in their lives and the affection among the group. A fun read you will enjoy
October 28, 2016
I always new Summer's story would be a little crazy love...lol the road to happiness is a very bumpy one for the illegitimate Summerhill daughter, but it's also a very funny road as well.
Summer is amazing seriously off her rocker amazing...lol she sets her sights on a man she reads as perfect for her on paper Ryan is Summer's prince charming, but looks good on paper is not always good in reality and Summer soon finds out with the help of the very handsome investigator Jon Smith that Ryan is really not a prince charming at all far from it and after what was the best kiss of her life at a mask ball Summer is now wondering who Prince charming really is or if he even exists. Jon was shocked when Summer kissed him at the masked ball but it didn't take long for him to realise she thought she was kissing Ryan Huber the man he was investigating for embezzlement and Jon just can not understand what Summer see's in the cad he also can not understand why he cares but from the moment her first saw her Summer Welles got under his skin and nothing he does can remove her from his mind or the replay of how her lips tasted on his, oh boy is he screwed big time.
Summer is amazing seriously off her rocker amazing...lol she sets her sights on a man she reads as perfect for her on paper Ryan is Summer's prince charming, but looks good on paper is not always good in reality and Summer soon finds out with the help of the very handsome investigator Jon Smith that Ryan is really not a prince charming at all far from it and after what was the best kiss of her life at a mask ball Summer is now wondering who Prince charming really is or if he even exists. Jon was shocked when Summer kissed him at the masked ball but it didn't take long for him to realise she thought she was kissing Ryan Huber the man he was investigating for embezzlement and Jon just can not understand what Summer see's in the cad he also can not understand why he cares but from the moment her first saw her Summer Welles got under his skin and nothing he does can remove her from his mind or the replay of how her lips tasted on his, oh boy is he screwed big time.
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May 26, 2024 Review
I enjoyed reading Once Upon a Dream. It was fun, steamy, and supportive.
I love that Summer believes in fairytales. She knows that her prince is out there somewhere. I admire her for going after what she wants. She doesn't let rumors deter her, and just wants to be happy. I think the thing I loved about this book was how supportive the family is. Even though Summer has this crazy idea of a perfect man they help her try to snag him. The bond between the sisters is comforting.
I loved the conversations between Jon and Summer. They were witty, and hilarious at times. Jon also knew what to do to make Summer flustered. She's used to being put together and unnoticeable. We also get to see Jacqueline's story. She's the Countess of Amberlin, and looking for her place in the world. She's wants to be a writer, and looks to an old friend for help. That friend isn't as nice to her as she hoped he would be, though.
I liked that we get two stories and this, and see a truly remarkable family dynamic.
I enjoyed reading Once Upon a Dream. It was fun, steamy, and supportive.
I love that Summer believes in fairytales. She knows that her prince is out there somewhere. I admire her for going after what she wants. She doesn't let rumors deter her, and just wants to be happy. I think the thing I loved about this book was how supportive the family is. Even though Summer has this crazy idea of a perfect man they help her try to snag him. The bond between the sisters is comforting.
I loved the conversations between Jon and Summer. They were witty, and hilarious at times. Jon also knew what to do to make Summer flustered. She's used to being put together and unnoticeable. We also get to see Jacqueline's story. She's the Countess of Amberlin, and looking for her place in the world. She's wants to be a writer, and looks to an old friend for help. That friend isn't as nice to her as she hoped he would be, though.
I liked that we get two stories and this, and see a truly remarkable family dynamic.
November 12, 2014
3.5 stars
Been meaning to read this since release, and needed something with definite HEA to counter Code Runner 's non-rom HFN.
I liked Summer in the previous books, but I don't think I took well to her character in her own story; and while Jon was nice, he felt lacking to me as a main character. Didn't buy the love aspect because the foundation, I thought, was a little too ridiculous. Like every one of her sisters, I couldn't begrudge Summer her dreams (or delusions), but I expected more thoughtfulness on her part—a glimpse of sanity, perceptiveness, and tenacity that defined her before. Just didn't click with me, I suppose.
I loved the Lady Jac sideplot a helluva lot more. I wanted more of it, even. The overarching family theme in the series was most heart-warming in this book. Sebastian and Trudy were intriguing; I'd love to get to know them better. Also, Luca and Bea and their interminable tension—come now, book 7!
Been meaning to read this since release, and needed something with definite HEA to counter Code Runner 's non-rom HFN.
I liked Summer in the previous books, but I don't think I took well to her character in her own story; and while Jon was nice, he felt lacking to me as a main character. Didn't buy the love aspect because the foundation, I thought, was a little too ridiculous. Like every one of her sisters, I couldn't begrudge Summer her dreams (or delusions), but I expected more thoughtfulness on her part—a glimpse of sanity, perceptiveness, and tenacity that defined her before. Just didn't click with me, I suppose.
I loved the Lady Jac sideplot a helluva lot more. I wanted more of it, even. The overarching family theme in the series was most heart-warming in this book. Sebastian and Trudy were intriguing; I'd love to get to know them better. Also, Luca and Bea and their interminable tension—come now, book 7!
January 13, 2016
I really enjoyed this story of love, old love reacquainted and of a love's broken promises.
I've read a few books by this author and so I've enjoyed her writing style very much. This book was no different although I have not read any books from this series I didn't feel out of place starting on this one. I feel it left a bit of a wanting at the end however a need to know more if you will, feeling in me.
I love the friendship and camaraderie between the sisters and Mother. The humor and banter is just as sisters would behave.
It's a book you need to pay attention to because it's going from one charter to another. I never felt like I didn't know what was going on though. I had a good time reading it and laughed with them and got a little mad with them as well.
There is some sexy stuff in here but it's not explicit it's HOT but it's not erotica. It's just perfect!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Happy Reading!!!
I've read a few books by this author and so I've enjoyed her writing style very much. This book was no different although I have not read any books from this series I didn't feel out of place starting on this one. I feel it left a bit of a wanting at the end however a need to know more if you will, feeling in me.
I love the friendship and camaraderie between the sisters and Mother. The humor and banter is just as sisters would behave.
It's a book you need to pay attention to because it's going from one charter to another. I never felt like I didn't know what was going on though. I had a good time reading it and laughed with them and got a little mad with them as well.
There is some sexy stuff in here but it's not explicit it's HOT but it's not erotica. It's just perfect!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Happy Reading!!!
October 28, 2016
I'm having difficulties reading this book. Usually I devour all Kate Perry's Rom coms, but this one just cannot hold my interest. I will try to finish because I hate not finishing a book, but Summer's character is ridiculous.
My main complaints:
She is a lawyer who believes in fairy tales- I know her focus isn't criminal law, but still. It doesn't ring true for me that someone in the Legal profession believes people can be innocent when evidence stacks up against them.
She finds it hard to believe her "Prince Charming" couldn't possibly be corrupt because of what she has read in the society pages, I mean it's not like they would have many handsome and charming crooks go through their firm for similar crimes every day or anything.
She believes her father was a wonderful man when he was never even around- not to mention he had a mistress and she was his illegitimate love child (yeah top guy).
I like Jacqueline's story though.
My main complaints:
She is a lawyer who believes in fairy tales- I know her focus isn't criminal law, but still. It doesn't ring true for me that someone in the Legal profession believes people can be innocent when evidence stacks up against them.
She finds it hard to believe her "Prince Charming" couldn't possibly be corrupt because of what she has read in the society pages, I mean it's not like they would have many handsome and charming crooks go through their firm for similar crimes every day or anything.
She believes her father was a wonderful man when he was never even around- not to mention he had a mistress and she was his illegitimate love child (yeah top guy).
I like Jacqueline's story though.
September 15, 2014
I just absolutely love reading Kate Perry stories. Her stories always have so much romance and comedy that it makes the read so much more compelling. We get to read about Summer story. I was always curious about Summer because we got to know her a little throughout the past books. She always wanted to be accept from her father and his family. She seem a little insecure because she never had the approve from her father. But things change when she lives with Summerhill family. Her sister accept her and help her when she need assist with the new man she wants. She unexpectedly meets a new man, who is sexy and sinful. He is the total package for her. We also get to read about Jacqueline's story. She definitely deserves happiness after what she went through her cheater husband. She finally untie with her old lover, but its a bumpy road for them to be together. Another great book!
February 20, 2016
I am a Kate Perry fan. I can rely on Perry to deliver a fun romance. I loved the Laurel Heights books, and love the Summerhill books even more. This element of a family rebuilding to become a better version of the family they once were, is beautiful. The books are packed with humor and just enough heat. This book reveals yet another layer of Jacqueline, the matriarch of the clan. She is a compelling character, who I like a lot. I love how she is working so hard to reclaim her clan and herself. This book revolves about Summer, the half sister who has been embraced and claimed but the Summerhill clan. She is trying to get the attention of her Prince Charming, but fate may have other plans for her. As always, we get the central romance, and a side romance. The side romance is quite exciting, and if you are a fan of the series, I know you will be pleased.
September 17, 2014
Summer has always felt as though she is an outsider sitting on the fringes of the Summerhill family. Being the child that was born out of an affair.
Nothing could be further from the truth. The strong Summerhill women, including the matriarch Jacqueline have opened their arms and home to Summer and are there for her when she realises her childhood dream of finding her prince charming may not be going the way she expected.
When she falls for the frog instead of the prince they all band together and help her get her frog.
I love that we get a bit of incite into Jacquelines past, and her love interest in this story and to have her and Summer's story intertwine signifies their bond.
I WANT MORE
Nothing could be further from the truth. The strong Summerhill women, including the matriarch Jacqueline have opened their arms and home to Summer and are there for her when she realises her childhood dream of finding her prince charming may not be going the way she expected.
When she falls for the frog instead of the prince they all band together and help her get her frog.
I love that we get a bit of incite into Jacquelines past, and her love interest in this story and to have her and Summer's story intertwine signifies their bond.
I WANT MORE
October 23, 2014
You all know I can’t get enough of Kate Perry, so when I was sent the newest addition to the Summerhill series I, of course, devoured it. (Mind you, if you follow me on Instagram you know damn well I finished this book ages ago and just failed to actually, ya know, post about it).
Once Upon a DreamOnce Upon a Dream, by the lovely Kate Perry, focuses on Summer, the one sister who didn’t, actually, grow up Summerhill. The daughter of Reginald Summerhill and his mistress, Summer first became a part of the family after Reginald’s passing (way back in book one) and has since become a regular fixture in the group of women.
For my full review, visit: http://ladyinread.com/2014/10/challen...
Once Upon a DreamOnce Upon a Dream, by the lovely Kate Perry, focuses on Summer, the one sister who didn’t, actually, grow up Summerhill. The daughter of Reginald Summerhill and his mistress, Summer first became a part of the family after Reginald’s passing (way back in book one) and has since become a regular fixture in the group of women.
For my full review, visit: http://ladyinread.com/2014/10/challen...
September 28, 2014
This is a great book. It is the fourth novel in the Summerhill series but can be read as a stand alone. After reading this though, I can't wait to start at the beginning. The characters just crawl into your heart and you want to find out their stories too. It was written so well that you felt that you were catching up with friends.
This book centers around Summer, the illegimate daughter of the Earl of Amberlin, and her search for Prince Charming. Summer thought she wanted a prince but she found that she enjoyed kissing a frog more. Will she realize this before he is gone?
I am never disappointed when I read a novel from Kate Perry. Her books pull me in and take me on a wonderful ride that I hate to see end. I highly recommend this book.
This book centers around Summer, the illegimate daughter of the Earl of Amberlin, and her search for Prince Charming. Summer thought she wanted a prince but she found that she enjoyed kissing a frog more. Will she realize this before he is gone?
I am never disappointed when I read a novel from Kate Perry. Her books pull me in and take me on a wonderful ride that I hate to see end. I highly recommend this book.
September 14, 2014
One thing I've grown to love about Kate Perry's books is that there are always several different stories going on at once. In Once Upon a Dream, the man story involves Summer and Jon, but there is also the story of Jacqueline throughout as well. Jacqueline's story is really the glue between all of the Summerhill stories, not just because she is the Matriarch of the family. In this book she realizes that what she really knows is "family" which is also the theme through all of the Summerhill books.
I look forward to reading the next book, Viola's story, and am anxiously awaiting the resolution of Bea and Luca's story that has been on the back burner since the first Summerhill book.
I look forward to reading the next book, Viola's story, and am anxiously awaiting the resolution of Bea and Luca's story that has been on the back burner since the first Summerhill book.
September 25, 2014
The story starts off with Summer making a plan to win the heart of the man she knows will be her husband. He doesn't know she exists but she has a strategy to make him take notice. Best laid plans go awry though and Summer finds her fate may be leaning in another direction. You are pulled into the family dynamics which include a few bumps along the way. Jacqueline has a story line as well that was a surprise I wasn't expecting.
There are a few stories interwove in this book. I thought this was a wonderful read. I do need to go back and read the first four to get to know some of the characters that had me smiling in this book. Definitely worth reading.
There are a few stories interwove in this book. I thought this was a wonderful read. I do need to go back and read the first four to get to know some of the characters that had me smiling in this book. Definitely worth reading.
September 15, 2014
Kate Perry never disappoints! Once Upon a Dream is her latest masterpiece and it doesn't disappoint. This book in the Summerhill saga is full of characters so richly developed that they feel like your best friends. This was the love story of Summer but Kate wonderfully began setting up the stories of Viola and Jacqueline. It give you something to look forward to. I highly recommended this book as well as all of Kate's books.
September 15, 2014
Another great additon to the Summerhill series. This is Summer's story and a great one it is. Determined to meet her Prince Charming, Summer is certain she knows exactly who he is. Sometimes though we find love where we least expect it. If you haven't started this series I recommend you read these books in order. There is a large number of characters and can be a bit confusing if you have read the others. This is a fun story and a recommend it to everyone.
February 24, 2016
Another great book from Kate in the Summerhill series. I can't wait for the next book. I love reading about some of the characters we met in the previous books. We get to find out more about the mother of the girls to better understand her. I think most females want to believe in fairy tales and we get to live Summer's fairy tale. But, does Summer get the fairy tale she thought she wanted? Read the book to find out!
October 12, 2015
I was drawn to this book because of the cover and the authors name. All in all it was a good story, however, coming into it at book 5 meant that the characters weren't built very well, and it was a bit hard to piece together everybody's back story. I did stay intrigued and hoped that Summer would realize that Prince Charming isn't always the rich & famous guy.
September 16, 2014
another great installment of the Summerhills. it was funny and interesting throughout and left me questioning of girls really do those things to get what they want. it was nice to see that Jacqueline also has her happy ever after
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