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I Dreamt That You Loved Me
The first time I met my best friend’s boyfriend, he was rude to me.
Sure, Gabriel Francis was all cheekbones and dishevelled hair with a voice that made women swoon and incited bidding wars with record labels. A pure drop of light in a sea of grunge. The soul of a romantic poet.
None of that swayed me though.
I didn’t trust rock stars.
Besides, he was off-limits.
But as Annika’s infatuation grew, and we were forced to spend more time together, I became enamored with Gabriel, too.
A friendship was forged, and we became each other’s muses.
My art. His music. An artistic collaboration, nothing more.
Until I heard the lyrics to his new song. So eerily familiar. And just like that, my dreams were shattered. Fate had done me dirty, and I tried my best to forget him.
Even so, I couldn’t help wondering, How much would you risk for a once in a lifetime love?
I DREAMT THAT YOU LOVED ME is an angsty, emotionally-charged, rockstar romantic standalone set in the 90s New York City.
Sure, Gabriel Francis was all cheekbones and dishevelled hair with a voice that made women swoon and incited bidding wars with record labels. A pure drop of light in a sea of grunge. The soul of a romantic poet.
None of that swayed me though.
I didn’t trust rock stars.
Besides, he was off-limits.
But as Annika’s infatuation grew, and we were forced to spend more time together, I became enamored with Gabriel, too.
A friendship was forged, and we became each other’s muses.
My art. His music. An artistic collaboration, nothing more.
Until I heard the lyrics to his new song. So eerily familiar. And just like that, my dreams were shattered. Fate had done me dirty, and I tried my best to forget him.
Even so, I couldn’t help wondering, How much would you risk for a once in a lifetime love?
I DREAMT THAT YOU LOVED ME is an angsty, emotionally-charged, rockstar romantic standalone set in the 90s New York City.
Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2025
1177 people are currently reading
1918 people want to read
About the author
Emery Rose
18 books1,788 followersEmery Rose is a former New Yorker currently living in London, and loves creating angsty, emotionally-charged stories with all the swoons, spice, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
When she's not busy crafting love stories with swoon-worthy, flawed heroes and the strong heroines who bring them to their knees or immersed in a good book, you can find her experimenting with new recipes, listening to her vinyl collection, or traveling the globe in search of sunshine and the perfect wave.
When she's not busy crafting love stories with swoon-worthy, flawed heroes and the strong heroines who bring them to their knees or immersed in a good book, you can find her experimenting with new recipes, listening to her vinyl collection, or traveling the globe in search of sunshine and the perfect wave.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
October 7, 2025
I saw many good reviews and talk about this book and thought that I should give it a try but clearly this is not for me.
SPOILER WARNING!!!!
For the first 10-15 chapters or so, MMC is with OW (FMC’s BFF & Roommate). MMC is a struggling singer/songwriter trying to make it big in NYC and FMC is also a struggling artist. Two years prior to story starting, MMC saw FMC outside a Diner and it was love at first sight for him. He even wrote songs about her. However, he saw her walking with an OM and never pursues her. He left it up to fate to bring them together. 🙄
In the meantime (and at same time frame), FMC also finds a backpack & notebook one day on a park bench that contains MMC’s shirt and his thoughts. At the time, she didn’t know MMC existed but after reading his notes, she was half in love with him and dreamed about him.
In the present, MCs are 21/23 (I think) and MMC met OW (h’s BFF/Roomate) and started dating her. This is where the story tanked for me and I knew I was not going to finish it. When they are first introduced, MMC recognizes his dream girl (aka FMC) whom he still has strong feelings for and an attraction but he doesn’t drop the OW. Nope. We get chapter after chapter where he & OW are always being affectionate & lovey-dovey towards one another in front of FMC and where she is a 3rd wheel in their relationship. FMC also by then recognizes that MMC is her “Notebook” guy and is very attracted to him but fighting her feelings as she doesn’t want to betray her BFF. She has to constantly watch them together and there is even one passage in which MMC is watching OW perform and can’t take his eyes off from her and FMC realizes he is in love with OW.
Then he eventually breaks up with OW and OW says this to FMC about him:
“I think it was mostly a physical attraction. I mean, come on, the guy’s gorgeous. The sex was amazing too. Like, it wasn’t just wham bam and it’s over in two minutes. He really had some great moves,” she said wistfully.
Thankfully, they’d spent a lot of their nights at his apartment, so I’d been spared from having to hear them fucking all night long.
“In the end, we just looked at each other and said, this has run its course, hasn’t it? And then he walked me home, gave me one of those sweet forehead kisses, and said, Sweet dreams, Annika. It felt like a movie. Kind of sad and romantic and bittersweet.”
So at this point, and after he finally breaks up with OW, he has finally decided to pursue FMC (after 4 months of dating OW in front of FMC) because she is the love of his life/soulmate, etc.
And what does FMC do? She runs & rejects him over & over again because she can’t betray her BFF and break the girl code. And to forget him, she ends up dating/hooking up with a Bartender which we never see this but is casually inserted into a conversation that she did this because she wanted to forget MMC.
And this is why this is not a safe read for me and became a DNF. I don’t care if they are loyal to one another after this or not as some reviewers mentioned. Had anyone mentioned all this in their reviews, I would not have bothered with it because in my fictional romances I do not want to read about MCs hooking up and having feelings for OP. That typically ruins it immediately and there is no turning back from it.
I know some folks say they are loyal after separations and so on, but I don’t trust reviews for this book and I honestly don’t care if they are or not.
Other honorable mentions: When OW/BFF finally learns that her ex BF (MMC) had feelings for FMC all the time she was dating him, she is rightfully upset at both MCs but later on she pushes FMC to go after her ex and I just rolled my eyes in the ridiculousness of it as now FMC is getting OW’s leftovers. Lol.
And MMC says this about OW:
“You belonged to her first,” I pointed out.
“Nobody belongs to anyone,” he scoffed. “I’m not her sole property. You can’t own anyone.”
“I need to hear what happened with Annika.”
“She wanted to know why I strung her along for four months,” he said, smacking the side of the Heinz bottle and pouring ketchup on his plate. “Why didn’t I end things as soon as I realized who you were?”
“Valid point. Why didn’t you?”
He thought about it for a moment. “At first, you were just…I didn’t know you, Cleo. I knew the girl I’d conjured up in my head, but I didn’t know you. And I liked Annika. For want of a better word, being with her was easy. There were no preconceived notions. No castles in the sky. But you…”
“It felt like I saw you in a dream and then you materialized before my eyes, and I wasn’t sure what to do about that,” he said. “You’re nothing like what I expected and yet you’re everything and more. We don’t really know each other but I feel like I’ve known you forever.” He held out his hands.
“Make of that what you will, Jane.”
What I wanted to tell him is that there was a very good chance I’d fall short of being the dream girl he conjured up, but all I said was, “My name’s not Jane.”
“I know who you are,” he said. “You’re Cleo Babington. The artist. The muse. The girl who acts tough but spends her last dollar on a cup of coffee for a homeless man who she treats like a friend. The girl with a rebellious heart and a quick wit who chooses men that could never possibly appreciate the wonders of her mind. You’re the girl who made a shirt for me.”
I should also mention that there is also another OW (a groupie) who hangs out at the club MMC performs and while he stated he never slept with OW, he called her “Baby” in front of FMC and didn’t outright tell her to bug off.
In addition, when they were talking about past ex's, he mentioned to FMC that he had one serious relationship prior to her where he dated an OW for 2 years and believed he was in love with her. FMC thinks that he is not over this OW but all he says is that after they broke up, he felt "relief" that he was on his own and didn't have to care about anyone else. FMC of course had a one year relationship back in college with bad sex and whom her BFF said that the guy was gay.
We also have scenes with MCs constantly getting drunk & high. So yeah, not for me but may work for other folks who are not bothered by these tropes like me.
SPOILER WARNING!!!!
For the first 10-15 chapters or so, MMC is with OW (FMC’s BFF & Roommate). MMC is a struggling singer/songwriter trying to make it big in NYC and FMC is also a struggling artist. Two years prior to story starting, MMC saw FMC outside a Diner and it was love at first sight for him. He even wrote songs about her. However, he saw her walking with an OM and never pursues her. He left it up to fate to bring them together. 🙄
In the meantime (and at same time frame), FMC also finds a backpack & notebook one day on a park bench that contains MMC’s shirt and his thoughts. At the time, she didn’t know MMC existed but after reading his notes, she was half in love with him and dreamed about him.
In the present, MCs are 21/23 (I think) and MMC met OW (h’s BFF/Roomate) and started dating her. This is where the story tanked for me and I knew I was not going to finish it. When they are first introduced, MMC recognizes his dream girl (aka FMC) whom he still has strong feelings for and an attraction but he doesn’t drop the OW. Nope. We get chapter after chapter where he & OW are always being affectionate & lovey-dovey towards one another in front of FMC and where she is a 3rd wheel in their relationship. FMC also by then recognizes that MMC is her “Notebook” guy and is very attracted to him but fighting her feelings as she doesn’t want to betray her BFF. She has to constantly watch them together and there is even one passage in which MMC is watching OW perform and can’t take his eyes off from her and FMC realizes he is in love with OW.
Then he eventually breaks up with OW and OW says this to FMC about him:
“I think it was mostly a physical attraction. I mean, come on, the guy’s gorgeous. The sex was amazing too. Like, it wasn’t just wham bam and it’s over in two minutes. He really had some great moves,” she said wistfully.
Thankfully, they’d spent a lot of their nights at his apartment, so I’d been spared from having to hear them fucking all night long.
“In the end, we just looked at each other and said, this has run its course, hasn’t it? And then he walked me home, gave me one of those sweet forehead kisses, and said, Sweet dreams, Annika. It felt like a movie. Kind of sad and romantic and bittersweet.”
So at this point, and after he finally breaks up with OW, he has finally decided to pursue FMC (after 4 months of dating OW in front of FMC) because she is the love of his life/soulmate, etc.
And what does FMC do? She runs & rejects him over & over again because she can’t betray her BFF and break the girl code. And to forget him, she ends up dating/hooking up with a Bartender which we never see this but is casually inserted into a conversation that she did this because she wanted to forget MMC.
And this is why this is not a safe read for me and became a DNF. I don’t care if they are loyal to one another after this or not as some reviewers mentioned. Had anyone mentioned all this in their reviews, I would not have bothered with it because in my fictional romances I do not want to read about MCs hooking up and having feelings for OP. That typically ruins it immediately and there is no turning back from it.
I know some folks say they are loyal after separations and so on, but I don’t trust reviews for this book and I honestly don’t care if they are or not.
Other honorable mentions: When OW/BFF finally learns that her ex BF (MMC) had feelings for FMC all the time she was dating him, she is rightfully upset at both MCs but later on she pushes FMC to go after her ex and I just rolled my eyes in the ridiculousness of it as now FMC is getting OW’s leftovers. Lol.
And MMC says this about OW:
“You belonged to her first,” I pointed out.
“Nobody belongs to anyone,” he scoffed. “I’m not her sole property. You can’t own anyone.”
“I need to hear what happened with Annika.”
“She wanted to know why I strung her along for four months,” he said, smacking the side of the Heinz bottle and pouring ketchup on his plate. “Why didn’t I end things as soon as I realized who you were?”
“Valid point. Why didn’t you?”
He thought about it for a moment. “At first, you were just…I didn’t know you, Cleo. I knew the girl I’d conjured up in my head, but I didn’t know you. And I liked Annika. For want of a better word, being with her was easy. There were no preconceived notions. No castles in the sky. But you…”
“It felt like I saw you in a dream and then you materialized before my eyes, and I wasn’t sure what to do about that,” he said. “You’re nothing like what I expected and yet you’re everything and more. We don’t really know each other but I feel like I’ve known you forever.” He held out his hands.
“Make of that what you will, Jane.”
What I wanted to tell him is that there was a very good chance I’d fall short of being the dream girl he conjured up, but all I said was, “My name’s not Jane.”
“I know who you are,” he said. “You’re Cleo Babington. The artist. The muse. The girl who acts tough but spends her last dollar on a cup of coffee for a homeless man who she treats like a friend. The girl with a rebellious heart and a quick wit who chooses men that could never possibly appreciate the wonders of her mind. You’re the girl who made a shirt for me.”
I should also mention that there is also another OW (a groupie) who hangs out at the club MMC performs and while he stated he never slept with OW, he called her “Baby” in front of FMC and didn’t outright tell her to bug off.
In addition, when they were talking about past ex's, he mentioned to FMC that he had one serious relationship prior to her where he dated an OW for 2 years and believed he was in love with her. FMC thinks that he is not over this OW but all he says is that after they broke up, he felt "relief" that he was on his own and didn't have to care about anyone else. FMC of course had a one year relationship back in college with bad sex and whom her BFF said that the guy was gay.
We also have scenes with MCs constantly getting drunk & high. So yeah, not for me but may work for other folks who are not bothered by these tropes like me.
Read
October 15, 2025DNF 76%
I’m so disappointed. 😒
The hype promised an epic read, but the result fell short.
I found the narration detached and cold. It was hard to connect with or relate to the characters.
The story has bones and even a beating heart, yet it’s missing a soul, that sense of intimacy that makes a story come alive and touch your heart.
I am throwing the towel at 76%. It's not working for me.
I’m so disappointed. 😒
The hype promised an epic read, but the result fell short.
I found the narration detached and cold. It was hard to connect with or relate to the characters.
The story has bones and even a beating heart, yet it’s missing a soul, that sense of intimacy that makes a story come alive and touch your heart.
I am throwing the towel at 76%. It's not working for me.
October 2, 2025
Cleo and Gabriel’s love isn’t just a story—it’s a soul-deep connection that transcends time. From the moment their paths cross, you feel the intensity, the ache, the undeniable pull of two people destined to collide.
Their journey, beginning in the gritty beauty of 90s New York, is woven with passion, heartbreak, and the kind of longing that leaves an imprint on your heart. Every glance, every touch, every silence between them carries weight.
They are each other’s twin flame 🔥—a love that burns bright, even when shadowed by pain. Emery Rose captures the kind of once-in-a-lifetime bond that makes you believe in fate, in destiny, and in love that survives against all odds.
Review of I Dreamt You Loved Me by Emery Rose 🌹ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Their journey, beginning in the gritty beauty of 90s New York, is woven with passion, heartbreak, and the kind of longing that leaves an imprint on your heart. Every glance, every touch, every silence between them carries weight.
They are each other’s twin flame 🔥—a love that burns bright, even when shadowed by pain. Emery Rose captures the kind of once-in-a-lifetime bond that makes you believe in fate, in destiny, and in love that survives against all odds.
Review of I Dreamt You Loved Me by Emery Rose 🌹ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2025
I try to stay away from best friend boyfriend tropes, it’s a type of angst I don’t always like, but I’ve loved all Emery Rose has written up to now so I said what the hell?!?! There is angst in regard to the bff aspect, but it wasn’t overwhelming to the story. It’s hard to say much about the plot without giving too much away, and though I usually seek out spoilers, I dove in blind. About 40% in, when things seemed to be rolling to their conclusion, I wasn’t sure where she’d go with the story and was worried it would be half a book of a whole lot of nothing. But it was a pretty big direction turn that the synopsis doesn’t allude to at all. Brought new life to the story and a new depth to both m/c’s and their love.
October 10, 2025
This book CONSUMED me from the very first word. The characters and the romance really spoke to my soul, and the twist is one of those that makes you stop and think about what you would do in that situation. New York in the 90s really comes alive in this book, and I loved the artistic and musical vibes. I'm feeling inspired about the art I create, and it has left me with a lot of food for thought. The romance is swoony, the spice is spicing, and the angst is delicious.
I love all Emery's books but this one is now top of the list. Masterful writing and a book that will stick with me for a long time.
Highly recommended.
I love all Emery's books but this one is now top of the list. Masterful writing and a book that will stick with me for a long time.
Highly recommended.
September 6, 2025
The best that Emery has ever written. It will rip your heart out and heal it in the most beautiful way.
October 1, 2025
A 5 star epic love story
You know those reads that captivate you, sweep you up, make you feel and don’t let go? This is one of those books. It’s a dramatic, intense, fun, yet heartwrenching love story full of chemistry and passion, and a true soulmate connection, and I loved Gabriel and Cleo’s story.
Set in 90s New York City, artist Cleo and singer/songwriter Gabriel are both struggling to get by while working hard to fulfill their dreams. They share an instant connection when they meet, but their circumstances mean they can’t act on it. Instead, they become friends, getting to know each other, inspiring and supporting each other until their feelings can’t be denied.
Oh my God, the chemistry between these two is electric. They are soulmates, they are meant to be together, and watching them find their way to each other had me swooning madly and completely swept up in their romance. It’s passionate and sweet, fun and playful, easy, natural, and lifechanging in the best of ways.
Though their love for each other is effortless, they do have challenges to face, and we follow them over the years as their stars rise, their dreams are realised, and they deal with the highest highs and devastating lows. It’s heartbreaking as the story twists in wildly unexpected ways, and I hurt so much for all they go through, but wow, what a story.
Gabriel and Cleo are such fantastic characters. She is strong and stubborn, he is a dreamer with a wildly romantic heart, and they just fit. They have a great bunch of side characters supporting them along the way, and the themes of love, family, music and art are beautifully tangled throughout the story.
My advice for this one is to go in blind. You need to experience this book – ride the highs and the lows without knowing anything and feel all of the feels.
This is such a beautiful read, and a fave for 2025.
5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
You know those reads that captivate you, sweep you up, make you feel and don’t let go? This is one of those books. It’s a dramatic, intense, fun, yet heartwrenching love story full of chemistry and passion, and a true soulmate connection, and I loved Gabriel and Cleo’s story.
Set in 90s New York City, artist Cleo and singer/songwriter Gabriel are both struggling to get by while working hard to fulfill their dreams. They share an instant connection when they meet, but their circumstances mean they can’t act on it. Instead, they become friends, getting to know each other, inspiring and supporting each other until their feelings can’t be denied.
Howl if you need me. Anytime. Anywhere … I’ll drop everything to be by your side just for the privilege of holding your hand and never letting go.
In the meantime, I’ll see you in my dreams.
Oh my God, the chemistry between these two is electric. They are soulmates, they are meant to be together, and watching them find their way to each other had me swooning madly and completely swept up in their romance. It’s passionate and sweet, fun and playful, easy, natural, and lifechanging in the best of ways.
There was no real explanation for this. No way to describe the phenomenon of finding your person, the one who banished the clouds on a gray day and made you wonder how you’d gotten through life without them.
Though their love for each other is effortless, they do have challenges to face, and we follow them over the years as their stars rise, their dreams are realised, and they deal with the highest highs and devastating lows. It’s heartbreaking as the story twists in wildly unexpected ways, and I hurt so much for all they go through, but wow, what a story.
“Still pretending to be so tough,” he said, nuzzling his nose against the side of my neck. “Drop your guard … I’m your soft place to fall. Your safety net. I’ll always catch you.”
Gabriel and Cleo are such fantastic characters. She is strong and stubborn, he is a dreamer with a wildly romantic heart, and they just fit. They have a great bunch of side characters supporting them along the way, and the themes of love, family, music and art are beautifully tangled throughout the story.
My advice for this one is to go in blind. You need to experience this book – ride the highs and the lows without knowing anything and feel all of the feels.
“You are the love of my life and no matter what happens, you will always be my first love and my last … I want to spend the rest of my life with you because you are my home. My only home.”
This is such a beautiful read, and a fave for 2025.
5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
October 12, 2025
This atmospheric, EPIC love story takes place in NYC in the early 1990’s where vibrant art culture and artists collide. An incredible atmosphere is set for this poetic, raw, love story. It a story that gripped my heart and mind and hasn’t let go.
I felt Cleo’s butterflies, angst, insecurities, happiness and fear. She was so relatable to me and I really liked her.
Gabriel is exactly who I would be attracted to if I was young again. He’s passionate, intelligent, kind, talented and he’s a rebel. He has the slightly “bad boy” thing going on yet he’s not. He is a very decent guy who has a thirst for knowledge and incredible talent as does Cleo.
Together they fit together like puzzle pieces. Although, things don’t start that way at all.
*CW* Cleo’s best friend and roommate is dating Gabriel in the beginning of the book. Cue the angst, shame and mixed signals. I LOVED it. I’m a big fan of forbidden and unconventional romance.
I love that they are all artists in different genres, they understand the dedication and the downsides as well. I was rooting for their success in everything. The secondary characters are fantastic as well. It’s such a shining gem of a story.
This is one of the rare books that played like a vivid movie in my head, I could picture everything so clearly and I think that’s because the writer is so talented, passionate and creative. This is a rare occurrence for me and I am so grateful.
The story covers many years and I had a gut feeling that I was in for some heartbreak…… I wasn’t wrong.
Let’s just say, though that this is my FAVORITE romance/love story I’ve read this year. It’s a book I know I’ll reread. It’s so beautifully written with intelligence and fun pop culture nods that made me giddy for the days gone by.
It’s a very emotional story, the characters are amazing and the journey it took me on was one of a kind.
If you read one book I recommend this year, I beg you to choose this one. It is utterly amazing!
I felt Cleo’s butterflies, angst, insecurities, happiness and fear. She was so relatable to me and I really liked her.
Gabriel is exactly who I would be attracted to if I was young again. He’s passionate, intelligent, kind, talented and he’s a rebel. He has the slightly “bad boy” thing going on yet he’s not. He is a very decent guy who has a thirst for knowledge and incredible talent as does Cleo.
Together they fit together like puzzle pieces. Although, things don’t start that way at all.
*CW* Cleo’s best friend and roommate is dating Gabriel in the beginning of the book. Cue the angst, shame and mixed signals. I LOVED it. I’m a big fan of forbidden and unconventional romance.
I love that they are all artists in different genres, they understand the dedication and the downsides as well. I was rooting for their success in everything. The secondary characters are fantastic as well. It’s such a shining gem of a story.
This is one of the rare books that played like a vivid movie in my head, I could picture everything so clearly and I think that’s because the writer is so talented, passionate and creative. This is a rare occurrence for me and I am so grateful.
The story covers many years and I had a gut feeling that I was in for some heartbreak…… I wasn’t wrong.
Let’s just say, though that this is my FAVORITE romance/love story I’ve read this year. It’s a book I know I’ll reread. It’s so beautifully written with intelligence and fun pop culture nods that made me giddy for the days gone by.
It’s a very emotional story, the characters are amazing and the journey it took me on was one of a kind.
If you read one book I recommend this year, I beg you to choose this one. It is utterly amazing!
October 9, 2025
With a title like this, you just know it’s going to pull at your heart, and honestly, it did exactly that. Gabriel’s rise from nothing to a successful musician and Cleo’s journey from hopeful artist to fashion designer felt so vivid and inspiring. The way this man yearns? Perfection. But then came the tragedy, and suddenly everything went downhill and even then it was poetic and pulled at my heartstrings. But after that point, parts of the story started to feel stretched out, like it was trying a little too hard to stay intense. The push and pull between them was fun at first, but after a while I was like “guys, please, just figure it out already.” Still, the story has heart, and I can see so much potential in it.
October 13, 2025
4-4.5 Stars
First 1/2 5 Stars. Then a bit dragged out.
First 1/2 5 Stars. Then a bit dragged out.
October 21, 2025
4 ⭐️'s
This is a very in-depth, long, complicated romance of two people who believe they are soulmates. It starts out when a friend of hers finds a notebook with ramblings in it and gives it to her because she’s a writer. She falls in love with all the writings and falls in love with notebook guy. Two years later she meets a guy her best friend, Annika, is dating and it’s him. He’s not very nice to her and in turn she’s not nice to him, but that’s when the drama starts.
Unfortunately, that’s not the worst of it. They go from the highs to the lows and back again. It’s quite the journey.
I did love all the angst, but it was a little too much at the end. However, I was happy with how things worked out, and that epilogue was really sweet.
This is a very in-depth, long, complicated romance of two people who believe they are soulmates. It starts out when a friend of hers finds a notebook with ramblings in it and gives it to her because she’s a writer. She falls in love with all the writings and falls in love with notebook guy. Two years later she meets a guy her best friend, Annika, is dating and it’s him. He’s not very nice to her and in turn she’s not nice to him, but that’s when the drama starts.
Unfortunately, that’s not the worst of it. They go from the highs to the lows and back again. It’s quite the journey.
I did love all the angst, but it was a little too much at the end. However, I was happy with how things worked out, and that epilogue was really sweet.
September 26, 2025
One of my top reads of the 2025! Trust me when I say that this book deserves ALL of the stars, because 5 just doesn't even come close to enough. This is top tier, twin flames, once in a lifetime, meant to be romance and I was so caught up in every moment of it!
The setting in 1990's NYC was spot on and I could picture every scene. I loved that! and the main characters? Cleo and Gabriel are IT. They are everything. Both to me, the reader, and of course to each other. From the very first second he saw her, he knew she was something special and just for him. Reading their journey, even before they belonged to each other, was such a beautiful experience and I wish I could do it all it over again for the first time. You can FEEL the intense connection with them and you just know their love isn't like the others. I also knew the heartache would hit at some point and it for sure did. It hit and it hurt, but even then I was all in. I needed the full circle and thankfully, in time, I got it.
I never wanted this one to end! I truly could have continued reading about these two for another couple hundred of pages. I'd be thrilled to see more of life after healing and what else the future held! It was so, so good and I will be recommending this one to everyone!
The setting in 1990's NYC was spot on and I could picture every scene. I loved that! and the main characters? Cleo and Gabriel are IT. They are everything. Both to me, the reader, and of course to each other. From the very first second he saw her, he knew she was something special and just for him. Reading their journey, even before they belonged to each other, was such a beautiful experience and I wish I could do it all it over again for the first time. You can FEEL the intense connection with them and you just know their love isn't like the others. I also knew the heartache would hit at some point and it for sure did. It hit and it hurt, but even then I was all in. I needed the full circle and thankfully, in time, I got it.
I never wanted this one to end! I truly could have continued reading about these two for another couple hundred of pages. I'd be thrilled to see more of life after healing and what else the future held! It was so, so good and I will be recommending this one to everyone!
December 17, 2025
I cried too many times while reading this
December 1, 2025
I LOVE U GABRIEL SM!! I LITERALLY FELT EVERYTHING HE SAID IN MY HEART!! Like when he was sad and depressed I was sad and depressed. He is just perfect! I love him sm🤧. I LOVED how he tried to get with Cleo once he knew she was the one 😩. And same goes for Cleo but she was scared bc of what would her bestie say?! But Cleo is such a strong woman bc she was there for Gabriel after the surgery. She went out of her way to put her life on hold to help Gabriel. Ughhh they will forever b twin flames😭💓. They will be with each other in every lifetime frfr bc they’re MEANT TO BE❤️🔥
THIS HAS THE SAY YOU SWEAR TROPE!! (If ykyk🫣)
SOME OF MY FAV QUOTES:
“You were the most beautiful dream, Jane.“
“I'll drop everything to be by your side just for the privilege of holding your hand and never letting go.
In the meantime, I'll see you in my dreams.”
“Listen, I've been thinking about this...there's no reason we can't be friends, right? The thing is that I really want you in my life. I NEED you to be in my life in some way, shape or form and if it has to be as friends, then so be it (which is not to say I don't want more-I FUCKING DO).”
“I'm just a man, Jane. Throw me a fucking crumb before I perish and die of hunger.”
“I have been loving you all my life. That's how it feels. Like you were made especially for me and have been a part of me forever. In my heart, my soul, my wildest dreams and my secret fantasies. You are the single best thing that has ever happened to me. You are my music and my every waking dream. I love you with everything in me, and when I said that no one can own another person, it was because I hadn't known a love like this existed yet. I am yours, and I'm praying like hell that you'll agree to be mine.”
“And one day in the distant future, one of us would wake up alone and we would remember all the love and all the joy, and we would feel an overwhelming gratitude simply because the other person had existed.” 😭😭😭💔 I LOVE THAT QUOTE SM
THIS HAS THE SAY YOU SWEAR TROPE!! (If ykyk🫣)
SOME OF MY FAV QUOTES:
“You were the most beautiful dream, Jane.“
“I'll drop everything to be by your side just for the privilege of holding your hand and never letting go.
In the meantime, I'll see you in my dreams.”
“Listen, I've been thinking about this...there's no reason we can't be friends, right? The thing is that I really want you in my life. I NEED you to be in my life in some way, shape or form and if it has to be as friends, then so be it (which is not to say I don't want more-I FUCKING DO).”
“I'm just a man, Jane. Throw me a fucking crumb before I perish and die of hunger.”
“I have been loving you all my life. That's how it feels. Like you were made especially for me and have been a part of me forever. In my heart, my soul, my wildest dreams and my secret fantasies. You are the single best thing that has ever happened to me. You are my music and my every waking dream. I love you with everything in me, and when I said that no one can own another person, it was because I hadn't known a love like this existed yet. I am yours, and I'm praying like hell that you'll agree to be mine.”
“And one day in the distant future, one of us would wake up alone and we would remember all the love and all the joy, and we would feel an overwhelming gratitude simply because the other person had existed.” 😭😭😭💔 I LOVE THAT QUOTE SM
October 26, 2025
Wow, this book swallowed me whole and spit me out! What an absolutely beautiful and emotional story. The nostalgia is so real—I felt like I was living in the 90s again! The music references made it even more special, and the love between these two was something truly unforgettable. This just might be the best book I’ve read all year, and it’s definitely going in my “Best of Emery Rose 2025” pile—and a guaranteed reread!
If you’re looking for something angsty, emotional, and passionate, packed with 90s nostalgia and all the feels, this is the one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
If you’re looking for something angsty, emotional, and passionate, packed with 90s nostalgia and all the feels, this is the one.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
September 25, 2025
I really don’t know where to begin with my review, other than I’m so happy I chose to sign up for this ARC. I will admit, 70 chapters completely intimidated me with a small timeline; but I will say I FLEW through this book. The idea of twin flames and soulmates can easily be written (if I’m being honest) very cheesy and and unbelieveable—but author Emery Rose had me cheering for Cleo and Gabriel from start to finish. They were two characters that I truly couldn’t picture with anyone else in the book. Their story is also set in NYC with a 90’s time frame. The clothing, events, and even the music that was listed took me straight there in this timecapsule of a novel. Another detail(s) I loved about this book was how simple their life and relationship was even in the midst of their challenges.
If you love an angsty, passionate, loving second chance romance; I highly recommend diving into Cleo and Gabriels story
•
Quick Synopsis-
Cleo is a struggling fashionista/artist in NYC when she finds a notebook full of poems and instantly falls for the writer. She doesn’t know who it belongs to until she meets her best friend’s boyfriend, Gabriel. Gabriel is a struggling musician who has a unique sound and knows how to make the ladies swoon. Cleo realizes that maybe this notebook belongs to Gabriel and begs the question, “How much would you risk for your one true soulmate?”
If you love an angsty, passionate, loving second chance romance; I highly recommend diving into Cleo and Gabriels story
•
Quick Synopsis-
Cleo is a struggling fashionista/artist in NYC when she finds a notebook full of poems and instantly falls for the writer. She doesn’t know who it belongs to until she meets her best friend’s boyfriend, Gabriel. Gabriel is a struggling musician who has a unique sound and knows how to make the ladies swoon. Cleo realizes that maybe this notebook belongs to Gabriel and begs the question, “How much would you risk for your one true soulmate?”
September 26, 2025
When I started this book, I did it totally blind. All I needed to know was that Emery wrote it, and I was already in love with the book. She writes the stories that can stand the test of time. The characters always have so much depth, and you love them so hard through their story. The nostalgia I felt while reading this book had me loving this one even more.
Being set in the 90s was the perfect touch to this epic love story.
Gabriel and Cleo have this big love that could swallow you whole! The way these two loved and supported each other came so natural to them. The love they had was so epic that it transcended time. I felt every emotion these characters went through like I was there.
That's when you know it is an amazing book, when you can close your eyes and picture it all unfold. I really didn't want this book to end. I want more of these characters and their love.
It has been a long time since I read a book this fast, but I couldn't put it down. Emery is one of my favorites, and she reminds me of this with every new book. I just love her writing and the way she tells a story.
Being set in the 90s was the perfect touch to this epic love story.
Gabriel and Cleo have this big love that could swallow you whole! The way these two loved and supported each other came so natural to them. The love they had was so epic that it transcended time. I felt every emotion these characters went through like I was there.
That's when you know it is an amazing book, when you can close your eyes and picture it all unfold. I really didn't want this book to end. I want more of these characters and their love.
It has been a long time since I read a book this fast, but I couldn't put it down. Emery is one of my favorites, and she reminds me of this with every new book. I just love her writing and the way she tells a story.
September 23, 2025
I was so freaking excited to get this ARC! This book y’all, I’m not even sure I could describe how much I loved it. It was devastating, beautiful, soul wrenching, amazing, romantic, and so many other words that I can’t think of. It took me through so many different emotions and I loved every second of it, even when I was crying with the characters. Cleo and Gabriel’s story was just so amazing and devastating and just so consuming I could not put it down. I loved this book so much, I wish I could read it again for the first time and experience it all over again. This is a must read, you’ll be put together, broken apart, and then put back together again, and you’ll keep coming back for more.
September 29, 2025
Gabriel and Cleo
This book took me on an emotional journey that I won’t soon forget. I felt fully invested in Gabriel and Cleo’s story which was heartbreakingly beautiful. It was one of those books that sticks with you. So, so good.
This book took me on an emotional journey that I won’t soon forget. I felt fully invested in Gabriel and Cleo’s story which was heartbreakingly beautiful. It was one of those books that sticks with you. So, so good.
November 23, 2025
6,5 / 10 ⭐️
Drama / Rockstar / Amnesia / Ambientación Ochentera / Second Chance
Cleo se enamora de Gabriel, el nuevo novio de su mejor amiga y sabe que no puede hacer nada, así que decide evitarlo lo máximo posible. Pero su amiga insiste en unir a sus dos personas favoritas.
Empecemos con un 'no está mal pero se me ha hecho pesado en ciertos momentos'.
El libro está dividido en dos partes
1. En la primera:
2. En la segunda parte:
El caso es que este libro se podría haber reducido casi a la mitad.
Casi no tiene escenas spicy, tampoco las necesita. Pero si se habla de ello se hace por encima diciendo que es genial, pues también podrían haber hecho eso con muchos de los capítulos que tiene el libro.
Mira que me gustan este tipo de libros, pero es que se me ha atascado pero mucho.
Igualmente tengo que decir que hay un par de capítulos desgarradores que me han hecho llorar.
Así que si queréis un drama de los ochenta con dos artistas bohemios de protagonistas que luchan por un amor verdadero, este es vuestro libro.
Drama / Rockstar / Amnesia / Ambientación Ochentera / Second Chance
Cleo se enamora de Gabriel, el nuevo novio de su mejor amiga y sabe que no puede hacer nada, así que decide evitarlo lo máximo posible. Pero su amiga insiste en unir a sus dos personas favoritas.
Empecemos con un 'no está mal pero se me ha hecho pesado en ciertos momentos'.
El libro está dividido en dos partes
1. En la primera:
2. En la segunda parte:
El caso es que este libro se podría haber reducido casi a la mitad.
Casi no tiene escenas spicy, tampoco las necesita. Pero si se habla de ello se hace por encima diciendo que es genial, pues también podrían haber hecho eso con muchos de los capítulos que tiene el libro.
Mira que me gustan este tipo de libros, pero es que se me ha atascado pero mucho.
Igualmente tengo que decir que hay un par de capítulos desgarradores que me han hecho llorar.
Así que si queréis un drama de los ochenta con dos artistas bohemios de protagonistas que luchan por un amor verdadero, este es vuestro libro.
October 5, 2025
Going into this book I was so excited because it was giving all those feels of being one of those AMAZING reads, and up until about half way it was, then it fell so flat for me I was kinda mad 🫠 while this story was beautiful, and pulled at your heartstrings there was just something missing with that second half and the characters.
I did love Gabriel though, that man has a way with his words.
“𝙄’𝙢 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣, 𝙅𝙖𝙣𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙢𝙗 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙄 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧.”
I did love Gabriel though, that man has a way with his words.
“𝙄’𝙢 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙣, 𝙅𝙖𝙣𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙧𝙪𝙢𝙗 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙄 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧.”
December 1, 2025
This book was like reading two love stories in one. Two people who have an instant connection and are seemingly made for each other and then have to find their way back to themselves and each other.
The author does a lot of ominous foreshadowing to the point where you know the other shoe is going to drop. This caused the story to lean on the predictable side. I still enjoyed it but wanted more angst and yearning. I feel like we skipped over a lot of that in the second half of this book.
If you are looking for a typical rock star romance, this isn't it. Gabriel is anti-rock star in every way, and the story fills in the blanks of his success but doesn't make it his persona. The lifestyle doesn't overshadow the music in this story, and the love of art plays second to the romance.
The book is filled with plenty of 90's music nostalgia in the backdrop of NYC. It provided the perfect setting for two struggling artists to make their mark on their world and each other.
The author does a lot of ominous foreshadowing to the point where you know the other shoe is going to drop. This caused the story to lean on the predictable side. I still enjoyed it but wanted more angst and yearning. I feel like we skipped over a lot of that in the second half of this book.
If you are looking for a typical rock star romance, this isn't it. Gabriel is anti-rock star in every way, and the story fills in the blanks of his success but doesn't make it his persona. The lifestyle doesn't overshadow the music in this story, and the love of art plays second to the romance.
The book is filled with plenty of 90's music nostalgia in the backdrop of NYC. It provided the perfect setting for two struggling artists to make their mark on their world and each other.
October 5, 2025
“Twin flames who had ignited each other’s souls.”
“Our love story was epic. Strong enough to stand the test of time. Resilient enough to bounce back from adversity.”
Although I don’t think a review could truly do justice in telling you just how amazingly incredible this work of art that was I Dreamt That You Loved Me by Emery Rose.
I will say author Emery delivered with this truly beautifully poetic, heartfelt yet powerfully artistic writing showcasing a storyline that transcended the EPIC love story of Cleo Babington and Gabriel Francis.
From the very get go Cleo (and later on Gabriel) reeled you right in, only to have you hook, line and sinker following the beautifully heartfelt and passionate whirlwind of their poetic journey bringing two flamed peak, who were each other’s soulmates.
Their connection always had them linked, the underlying pull that created the invisible tether never allowing each other to go very far, regardless of time, space and distance attempting to pull them apart. The constant ache and yearning reeling them back to one another. Always to be the other half to one another and each other’s piece making them fit to become whole when together.
Taking us deep into the heart of New York, back in the 90s, the storytelling created the most vivid image of Bohemian artist Cleo and muse to Rockstar singer/songwriter Gabriel’s journey, as if watching their lifetime movie come to life in your head as the narrative moved along.
Then again that was to be expected given the attention to detail author Emery included in every scene, having you transported back in time as if you were there seeing it play out before your very eyes.
In every moment, there was so much to hear, see and learn about, not just when it came to the main characters. But the lives they were living back in that time, considering the importance it played into their story, alongside the secondary characters in form of friends and family, who had their importance too.
Considering the story was about two incredible artists Cleo and Gabriel, the use of flowery language truly played into story. To me, it’s what made it feel like I was actually reading Cleo and Gabriel telling their story themselves.
Then again, the description along with the poetic wording played into the language they spoke due to their careers, flowing effortlessly. It helped in playing into creating their lifetime movie in your head of seeing them venture upon their journey with every single piece of in-depth, intricate detail.
To say I Dreamt That You Loved Me was just a love story would be insulting and inadequate.
It was so much more, in fact it transcended a typical love story.
From the electrifying and sparkling chemistry that these two flames ignited in every moment, due to their burning love. It was no wonder they had you swept off your feet watching their romance blossom to then flourish, all the while having you swooning and sighing deeply and madly.
But with that said, the whirlwind that was their adventurous journey wasn’t just all daisies and rainbows. Given the ups and downs, going back and forth with all the pushing and pulling, it bought about drama, amongst some hardships faced in the situation and events they faced and endured.
Ultimately leading to highs and lows that came from the majorly angsty driven, overwhelming emotionally charged aspect of the making. Resulting in Cleo and Gabriel having their work be cut out for them.
The outpour of those emotions truly hit fast, hard and deep from how powerful it was, yet well worth it considering the HEA ending it led to.
A story like no other, Emery Rose delivered with I Dreamt That You Loved Me.
This was a beautifully deep, intensely passionate book that transcended a love story between twin flames Cleo and Gabriel, sparking each other’s souls to life from the ignition it caused within their emotionally charged journey.
It truly was chefs kiss and I would very much highly recommend.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“Our love story was epic. Strong enough to stand the test of time. Resilient enough to bounce back from adversity.”
Although I don’t think a review could truly do justice in telling you just how amazingly incredible this work of art that was I Dreamt That You Loved Me by Emery Rose.
I will say author Emery delivered with this truly beautifully poetic, heartfelt yet powerfully artistic writing showcasing a storyline that transcended the EPIC love story of Cleo Babington and Gabriel Francis.
From the very get go Cleo (and later on Gabriel) reeled you right in, only to have you hook, line and sinker following the beautifully heartfelt and passionate whirlwind of their poetic journey bringing two flamed peak, who were each other’s soulmates.
Their connection always had them linked, the underlying pull that created the invisible tether never allowing each other to go very far, regardless of time, space and distance attempting to pull them apart. The constant ache and yearning reeling them back to one another. Always to be the other half to one another and each other’s piece making them fit to become whole when together.
Taking us deep into the heart of New York, back in the 90s, the storytelling created the most vivid image of Bohemian artist Cleo and muse to Rockstar singer/songwriter Gabriel’s journey, as if watching their lifetime movie come to life in your head as the narrative moved along.
Then again that was to be expected given the attention to detail author Emery included in every scene, having you transported back in time as if you were there seeing it play out before your very eyes.
In every moment, there was so much to hear, see and learn about, not just when it came to the main characters. But the lives they were living back in that time, considering the importance it played into their story, alongside the secondary characters in form of friends and family, who had their importance too.
Considering the story was about two incredible artists Cleo and Gabriel, the use of flowery language truly played into story. To me, it’s what made it feel like I was actually reading Cleo and Gabriel telling their story themselves.
Then again, the description along with the poetic wording played into the language they spoke due to their careers, flowing effortlessly. It helped in playing into creating their lifetime movie in your head of seeing them venture upon their journey with every single piece of in-depth, intricate detail.
To say I Dreamt That You Loved Me was just a love story would be insulting and inadequate.
It was so much more, in fact it transcended a typical love story.
From the electrifying and sparkling chemistry that these two flames ignited in every moment, due to their burning love. It was no wonder they had you swept off your feet watching their romance blossom to then flourish, all the while having you swooning and sighing deeply and madly.
But with that said, the whirlwind that was their adventurous journey wasn’t just all daisies and rainbows. Given the ups and downs, going back and forth with all the pushing and pulling, it bought about drama, amongst some hardships faced in the situation and events they faced and endured.
Ultimately leading to highs and lows that came from the majorly angsty driven, overwhelming emotionally charged aspect of the making. Resulting in Cleo and Gabriel having their work be cut out for them.
The outpour of those emotions truly hit fast, hard and deep from how powerful it was, yet well worth it considering the HEA ending it led to.
A story like no other, Emery Rose delivered with I Dreamt That You Loved Me.
This was a beautifully deep, intensely passionate book that transcended a love story between twin flames Cleo and Gabriel, sparking each other’s souls to life from the ignition it caused within their emotionally charged journey.
It truly was chefs kiss and I would very much highly recommend.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2025
I don’t even know where to start—this book absolutely ruined me in the best, most beautiful way. I Dreamt That You Loved Me isn’t just a love story; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of connection that feels both timeless and painfully real. Emery Rose reaches right inside your chest and rearranges your heart while whispering, “you’ll thank me later.”
Set against the gritty heartbeat of 1990s New York City, the atmosphere is so vivid you can almost hear the echo of subway brakes and the hum of a guitar through a paper-thin wall. Cleo and Gabriel’s world is one of art, music, and messy emotion—a place where every lyric, brushstroke, and heartbreak feels lived in. The nostalgia is chef’s kiss! Think moody clubs, smoky air, and the ache of chasing a dream before the internet made everyone a critic.
Cleo and Gabriel are the kind of couple that make you believe in twin flames. She’s grounded, cautious, and fiercely independent. He’s soulful, poetic, and just reckless enough to make you swoon and scream into a pillow. Together, they’re pure alchemy. Their chemistry doesn’t just spark, it simmers, deep and consuming. It's the kind of love that burns quietly before it blazes. The intimacy here isn’t just physical variety; it’s emotional, artistic, and spiritual. And when passion does strike, it’s intoxicating in that “how can I breathe and still want more?” kind of way. (Be prepared for a cold shower to be necessary! 3🌶️ for sure!)
And yes—this love walks a fine line between fate and fallout. There are moments where choices blur, where right and wrong twist together, and it’s messy in the most human way. Emery doesn’t write simple love stories; she writes complicated truths, and that’s what makes this one unforgettable.
What sets this book apart, though, isn’t just the romance—it’s how alive it feels. The secondary characters are beautifully woven in, the found-family dynamic giving the story both weight and warmth. Every emotional beat lands exactly where it should—sometimes like a gut punch, sometimes like a hand squeeze that says, “you’re not alone.”
This book is heartache and healing. It’s art and chaos. It’s grief and grace. It’s one of those rare reads that makes you want to underline every other sentence just so you can feel it again later. (I’m pretty sure more than half the story has been highlighted in my copy… 😂)
By the time I reached the end, I didn’t just love Cleo and Gabriel—I believed in them. Emery Rose has outdone herself. This isn’t just a 5-star read. This is a book that sets the bar for what romance can be... soul-deep, unforgettable, and impossibly human.
I Dreamt That You Loved Me is the next-level read you’re looking for—it’s lyrical, devastating, and transcendent. And without question, one of the very best books I’ve read in years.
🖤 If you’ve ever believed in soulmates, in art as love language, or in the kind of story that makes your chest ache long after you’ve closed the book—clear your schedule. You’re about to meet your new obsession.
Story: 5⭐️++
Spice: 3🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Rockstar Romance
Tropes:
🖤Best Friend/Roommate’s Boyfriend
🖤Rock Star + Artist
🖤It’s always been you
🖤Second Chance
🖤90s Nostalgia
🖤Angsty and emotional with a swoonworthy MMC + a FMC with black cat energy
🖤Second Chance
Set against the gritty heartbeat of 1990s New York City, the atmosphere is so vivid you can almost hear the echo of subway brakes and the hum of a guitar through a paper-thin wall. Cleo and Gabriel’s world is one of art, music, and messy emotion—a place where every lyric, brushstroke, and heartbreak feels lived in. The nostalgia is chef’s kiss! Think moody clubs, smoky air, and the ache of chasing a dream before the internet made everyone a critic.
Cleo and Gabriel are the kind of couple that make you believe in twin flames. She’s grounded, cautious, and fiercely independent. He’s soulful, poetic, and just reckless enough to make you swoon and scream into a pillow. Together, they’re pure alchemy. Their chemistry doesn’t just spark, it simmers, deep and consuming. It's the kind of love that burns quietly before it blazes. The intimacy here isn’t just physical variety; it’s emotional, artistic, and spiritual. And when passion does strike, it’s intoxicating in that “how can I breathe and still want more?” kind of way. (Be prepared for a cold shower to be necessary! 3🌶️ for sure!)
And yes—this love walks a fine line between fate and fallout. There are moments where choices blur, where right and wrong twist together, and it’s messy in the most human way. Emery doesn’t write simple love stories; she writes complicated truths, and that’s what makes this one unforgettable.
What sets this book apart, though, isn’t just the romance—it’s how alive it feels. The secondary characters are beautifully woven in, the found-family dynamic giving the story both weight and warmth. Every emotional beat lands exactly where it should—sometimes like a gut punch, sometimes like a hand squeeze that says, “you’re not alone.”
This book is heartache and healing. It’s art and chaos. It’s grief and grace. It’s one of those rare reads that makes you want to underline every other sentence just so you can feel it again later. (I’m pretty sure more than half the story has been highlighted in my copy… 😂)
By the time I reached the end, I didn’t just love Cleo and Gabriel—I believed in them. Emery Rose has outdone herself. This isn’t just a 5-star read. This is a book that sets the bar for what romance can be... soul-deep, unforgettable, and impossibly human.
I Dreamt That You Loved Me is the next-level read you’re looking for—it’s lyrical, devastating, and transcendent. And without question, one of the very best books I’ve read in years.
🖤 If you’ve ever believed in soulmates, in art as love language, or in the kind of story that makes your chest ache long after you’ve closed the book—clear your schedule. You’re about to meet your new obsession.
Story: 5⭐️++
Spice: 3🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Rockstar Romance
Tropes:
🖤Best Friend/Roommate’s Boyfriend
🖤Rock Star + Artist
🖤It’s always been you
🖤Second Chance
🖤90s Nostalgia
🖤Angsty and emotional with a swoonworthy MMC + a FMC with black cat energy
🖤Second Chance
September 29, 2025
Young love, true love and timeless love converged in one big beautiful book hug in Emery Rose's I Dreamt That You Loved Me bringing all the insecurity and emotions that come with it for an unforgettable story!
Struggling musician and songwriter Gabriel Francis marched to his own beat and was impossible to ignore but more so he was irresistible once he captured your attention. A once in a generation talent his lack of artifice was refreshing in the cut throat industry that he moved in. Gabriel's stubborn kindness, loyalty and devotion showed a man who valued being true to not only himself but to the world at large.
Searching for what direction she wanted to go in her life aspiring artist Cleo Babington was a person whose worth was determined by being faithful to the beliefs she held onto and the goals she aimed for. Born to famous parents who moved in the inner circles of the music industry Cleo knew the pitfalls of fame and fortune and made it her objective to avoid making the mistakes of her parents often to the detriment of her own wishes. A giving person and dependable friend Cleo's love, honesty and allegiance were priceless gifts when bestowed.
Cleo's hesitancy to make herself vulnerable was in direct opposition to Gabriel's blind trust of the moment. Yet this couple complimented each other and felt like each other's missing pieces from their first encounter forward. Their wooing of each other with shared interest and exposing each other to new ideas felt decadent and intimate. These characters owned their flaws and made no attempt to appear otherwise. Cleo and Gabriel's was the kind of love story where readers will want to bask in it and absorb all of its richness experiencing the highs and lows of this couple. This pair were more than lovers, they were soul mates. Their soul searing friendship rose above their physical attraction and bonded them in a way that blinded them to others and always allowed them to find their way back to each other.
Ms. Rose painted a vivid picture of her portrayals and NYC in the early nineties through the early 2000's. Every word in this story felt three dimensional in the imagery it conjured up. From the characters' appearances to the music selections that played such an important part in defining her portrayals to the places her characters spent time, this work felt like a living, breathing entity. This writer's thought provoking and sensitively expressed emotions created a unique and special reading experience for her audience.
Emery Rose never takes the easy route to love. Her stories share tragedy just as easily as triumph and can always be counted on for a touching reading experience. Beautifully messy I Dreamt That You Loved Me is what love stories are all about and a 2025 favorite read!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Struggling musician and songwriter Gabriel Francis marched to his own beat and was impossible to ignore but more so he was irresistible once he captured your attention. A once in a generation talent his lack of artifice was refreshing in the cut throat industry that he moved in. Gabriel's stubborn kindness, loyalty and devotion showed a man who valued being true to not only himself but to the world at large.
Searching for what direction she wanted to go in her life aspiring artist Cleo Babington was a person whose worth was determined by being faithful to the beliefs she held onto and the goals she aimed for. Born to famous parents who moved in the inner circles of the music industry Cleo knew the pitfalls of fame and fortune and made it her objective to avoid making the mistakes of her parents often to the detriment of her own wishes. A giving person and dependable friend Cleo's love, honesty and allegiance were priceless gifts when bestowed.
Cleo's hesitancy to make herself vulnerable was in direct opposition to Gabriel's blind trust of the moment. Yet this couple complimented each other and felt like each other's missing pieces from their first encounter forward. Their wooing of each other with shared interest and exposing each other to new ideas felt decadent and intimate. These characters owned their flaws and made no attempt to appear otherwise. Cleo and Gabriel's was the kind of love story where readers will want to bask in it and absorb all of its richness experiencing the highs and lows of this couple. This pair were more than lovers, they were soul mates. Their soul searing friendship rose above their physical attraction and bonded them in a way that blinded them to others and always allowed them to find their way back to each other.
Ms. Rose painted a vivid picture of her portrayals and NYC in the early nineties through the early 2000's. Every word in this story felt three dimensional in the imagery it conjured up. From the characters' appearances to the music selections that played such an important part in defining her portrayals to the places her characters spent time, this work felt like a living, breathing entity. This writer's thought provoking and sensitively expressed emotions created a unique and special reading experience for her audience.
Emery Rose never takes the easy route to love. Her stories share tragedy just as easily as triumph and can always be counted on for a touching reading experience. Beautifully messy I Dreamt That You Loved Me is what love stories are all about and a 2025 favorite read!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
October 7, 2025
3.5☆ missing something
I've always loved Emery's writing style. I went into this expecting it to stack up against her Love & Chaos series, which is so raw and full of angst, but sadly, this didn't.
It was an enjoyable story, but I didn't feel any of that pain that the characters were experiencing. It felt like we were being told more than being shown. We lingered in moments where they talked about how things were, but we didn't get to experience the months of pain after what happened. In my opinion, we needed more depth.
I've always loved Emery's writing style. I went into this expecting it to stack up against her Love & Chaos series, which is so raw and full of angst, but sadly, this didn't.
It was an enjoyable story, but I didn't feel any of that pain that the characters were experiencing. It felt like we were being told more than being shown. We lingered in moments where they talked about how things were, but we didn't get to experience the months of pain after what happened. In my opinion, we needed more depth.
October 2, 2025
Thank goodness my ARC copy of "I Dreamt That You Loved Me" by @emeryroseauthor didn't hit my kindle until I returned from vacation in Paris because when I tell you I would have missed the Eiffel Tower for this, I am not lying.
✨ I Dreamt That You Loved Me by @emeryroseauthor is an emotional masterpiece. I laughed, cried, and screamed toward the heavens—this book wrecked me in the best way. From the first page to the final perfect syllable, I was completely and irrevocably invested.
Set in 90s NYC, Cleo and Gabriel’s story is a soul-deep, angsty, artistic slow burn that had me completely obsessed. Forbidden love, poetic lyrics, and chemistry that leaps off the page. Their artistic chemistry is magnetic—her art, his music, their shared dreams. They become each other’s muses, their bond growing in the quiet spaces between glances and lyrics. (I lost count of the number of Chef's Kisses I sent up into the universe).
This book is rich with emotion and atmosphere. Emery Rose paints the city in brushstrokes of nostalgia— smoky bars, cafes, battles with gentrification and the ache of chasing dreams in a world that doesn’t always make room for love. The dialogue is poetic, the twists are gutting, and the romance? It’s the kind that makes you believe in twin flames and once-in-a-lifetime love.
If you love emotional, character-driven romance with artistic soul and a nostalgic edge, I Dreamt That You Loved Me is a must-read. It’s passionate, painful, and healing in the most beautiful way. My top reads of the year—and the greatest rockstar romance I’ve ever read.
✨ I Dreamt That You Loved Me by @emeryroseauthor is an emotional masterpiece. I laughed, cried, and screamed toward the heavens—this book wrecked me in the best way. From the first page to the final perfect syllable, I was completely and irrevocably invested.
Set in 90s NYC, Cleo and Gabriel’s story is a soul-deep, angsty, artistic slow burn that had me completely obsessed. Forbidden love, poetic lyrics, and chemistry that leaps off the page. Their artistic chemistry is magnetic—her art, his music, their shared dreams. They become each other’s muses, their bond growing in the quiet spaces between glances and lyrics. (I lost count of the number of Chef's Kisses I sent up into the universe).
This book is rich with emotion and atmosphere. Emery Rose paints the city in brushstrokes of nostalgia— smoky bars, cafes, battles with gentrification and the ache of chasing dreams in a world that doesn’t always make room for love. The dialogue is poetic, the twists are gutting, and the romance? It’s the kind that makes you believe in twin flames and once-in-a-lifetime love.
If you love emotional, character-driven romance with artistic soul and a nostalgic edge, I Dreamt That You Loved Me is a must-read. It’s passionate, painful, and healing in the most beautiful way. My top reads of the year—and the greatest rockstar romance I’ve ever read.
October 2, 2025
4.5 ★
I can’t believe this was my first Emery Rose book. Clearly, I’ve been missing out, because wow… It's been a while since I’ve read a love story this beautiful. I don’t want to give too much away (this is definitely one you should go into blind to get the full experience), but here’s what I will say:
Cleo and Gabriel’s love story is the very definition of soulmates and right person, wrong time. It’s angsty, magnetic, complicated, emotional, layered with nostalgia and so many quiet, aching moments. This book took me through the entire spectrum of emotions: it was gut-wrenching, it had me sobbing more than once (sometimes I didn’t even know why, except the writing was so beautiful it moved me to tears), and yet by the end, it was healing, fulfilling, and heartwarming.
It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in true love. The kind that leaves an imprint long after you turn the last page. And it’s the kind that reminds me why I love reading in the first place. So yes, this may have been my first Emery Rose novel, but it definitely won’t be my last. I feel so lucky to have found a new author whose backlist I can’t wait to dive into.
Here’s what to expect:
• Rock Star X Artist
• Best friend's boyfriend
• Second chance romance
• NYC in the 90s
• It's always been you
✣ NOW LIVE!!!
✣ Huge thanks to Emery Rose & The Author Agency for the ARC.
I can’t believe this was my first Emery Rose book. Clearly, I’ve been missing out, because wow… It's been a while since I’ve read a love story this beautiful. I don’t want to give too much away (this is definitely one you should go into blind to get the full experience), but here’s what I will say:
Cleo and Gabriel’s love story is the very definition of soulmates and right person, wrong time. It’s angsty, magnetic, complicated, emotional, layered with nostalgia and so many quiet, aching moments. This book took me through the entire spectrum of emotions: it was gut-wrenching, it had me sobbing more than once (sometimes I didn’t even know why, except the writing was so beautiful it moved me to tears), and yet by the end, it was healing, fulfilling, and heartwarming.
It’s the kind of story that makes you believe in true love. The kind that leaves an imprint long after you turn the last page. And it’s the kind that reminds me why I love reading in the first place. So yes, this may have been my first Emery Rose novel, but it definitely won’t be my last. I feel so lucky to have found a new author whose backlist I can’t wait to dive into.
Here’s what to expect:
• Rock Star X Artist
• Best friend's boyfriend
• Second chance romance
• NYC in the 90s
• It's always been you
✣ NOW LIVE!!!
✣ Huge thanks to Emery Rose & The Author Agency for the ARC.
October 2, 2025
I Dreamt That You loved Me has done what I thought was impossible…it has knocked my favourite book of ALL TIME - When the Stars Fall (also by Emery Rose) - from its pedestal and long held #1 place in my heart and mind.
The connection that Cleo and Gabriel share, before they’ve even met, is undeniable. An instant, once-in-a-lifetime bond, a twin-flame burning bright love, filled with soul-deep adoration that takes them both on an indescribably unique and emotional journey. Their extremely hard fought for love was absolute perfection, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
I loved everything about this story, these characters, and the nostalgic and oh so sweet and heart rendering walk down memory lane of first love. Emery Rose paints the most stunning picture throughout this book, completely transporting us back to 1990s NYC. It was an absolute joy to devour her words. This is now Cleo and Gabriel’s world and they continue to live rent free in my brain.
In short…you need to read this book. You need to buy this and support the absolute genius and story writing magician that is Emery Rose. I was lucky enough to read an arc but as soon as this is released into the wild I’ll be buying the paperback (to proudly display on my shelf) the ebook (to have with me always) and the audio (for commutes to work). I cannot recommend this book enough.
I Dreamt That You loved Me = 5+++ stars 🤩
The connection that Cleo and Gabriel share, before they’ve even met, is undeniable. An instant, once-in-a-lifetime bond, a twin-flame burning bright love, filled with soul-deep adoration that takes them both on an indescribably unique and emotional journey. Their extremely hard fought for love was absolute perfection, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
I loved everything about this story, these characters, and the nostalgic and oh so sweet and heart rendering walk down memory lane of first love. Emery Rose paints the most stunning picture throughout this book, completely transporting us back to 1990s NYC. It was an absolute joy to devour her words. This is now Cleo and Gabriel’s world and they continue to live rent free in my brain.
In short…you need to read this book. You need to buy this and support the absolute genius and story writing magician that is Emery Rose. I was lucky enough to read an arc but as soon as this is released into the wild I’ll be buying the paperback (to proudly display on my shelf) the ebook (to have with me always) and the audio (for commutes to work). I cannot recommend this book enough.
I Dreamt That You loved Me = 5+++ stars 🤩
October 2, 2025
I'm not sure what it was about this book that first caught my attention, but maybe it was just the cover. Whatever it was, I am so glad that I chose to read this one.
Other than knowing that this was a best friend's boyfriend/rockstar romance, I otherwise went into this book blind. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it definitely wasn't this. I don't want to give anything away, but I will say that this isn't your typical story.
This book had me hooked from the very first few pages and it never let go. I was quickly and completely consumed by Cleo and Gabriel's love story, and that's what this is: a LOVE story. This is so much more than just a rock star romance. This is angst filled and emotional. While it wasn't really a tearjerker for me, I did go through much of the story with such a heavy sense of foreboding. My heart broke for both Cleo and Gabriel, and I felt every emotion right along with them.
I loved that this story didn't include any of the twists and turns that I was expecting. Instead, it kept me guessing. It kept me flipping the pages and hoping for these two characters that I loved to find the HEA that they both fought for and deserved.
Other than knowing that this was a best friend's boyfriend/rockstar romance, I otherwise went into this book blind. I wasn't sure what to expect, but it definitely wasn't this. I don't want to give anything away, but I will say that this isn't your typical story.
This book had me hooked from the very first few pages and it never let go. I was quickly and completely consumed by Cleo and Gabriel's love story, and that's what this is: a LOVE story. This is so much more than just a rock star romance. This is angst filled and emotional. While it wasn't really a tearjerker for me, I did go through much of the story with such a heavy sense of foreboding. My heart broke for both Cleo and Gabriel, and I felt every emotion right along with them.
I loved that this story didn't include any of the twists and turns that I was expecting. Instead, it kept me guessing. It kept me flipping the pages and hoping for these two characters that I loved to find the HEA that they both fought for and deserved.
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