Once Upon a Romance

A Dream Come True #1

by Alex Bailey

Christmas. Disney. Romance. No greater magic.

When Sophie’s eight-year-old niece, Ariel, asks Santa Claus for a single wish to honor her mom’s memory, Sophie knows she must grant it. Unfortunately for Sophie, Ariel's wish is to ride her mom's favorite ride on Christmas day, and it’s at the last place on earth Sophie wants to visit—Walt Disney World. It will be the first Christmas without her sister, and reliving childhood memories of her best friend is not how she wants to spend her holiday. Sophie’s only desire is to spend Christmas on the slopes with her reliable and stable beau, Darren, who has reluctantly agreed to postpone their trip until the day after Christmas.

But when Sophie runs into a charming stranger, who offers up his extensive Disney knowledge, he instantly becomes her hero. A wave of relief washes over Sophie—he may just be the one to give Ariel the magical experience she desires. And, even though Sophie doesn’t realize it, he may be exactly what she needs too.
Can a bit of Christmas magic help this ruggedly-attractive stranger win Sophie’s heart when she believes it already belongs to Darren? And will Sophie continue to allow her painful past to haunt her, or will she let it go?

A heart-warming holiday romance set in "The Most Magical Place on Earth."

Genres: Romance, Christmas, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit, Amazon, Adult

222 pages, Paperback

Published October 26, 2018

About the author

Alex Bailey was a bored writer/editor of documents as humdrum as vacuum cleaner manuals. She left that life behind to create more exciting worlds than the one she lived in and now writes stories with a splash of magic. When she’s not dreaming of being swept away to "The Most Magical Place on Earth,” she’s tending to her organic garden while belting out Disney tunes. Some of her favorite hobbies include: telling her children that “Mother knows best”, attempting to convince woodland creatures to clean her house for her, wishing upon stars, and Disney-ing.

Reviews

[Debra Johnson]

Purchase Amazon August 19, 2019
Don't know how I ended up with a 'Clean' book on my shelves.
And I own it.
Grrr.
Not for me, thank you, NO.
I will not be reading it.

[Kayleigh | Welsh Book Fairy · Rating 3 out of 5]

— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —

𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Once Upon a Romance
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: Book 1 of 2 of A Dream Come True series
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Alex Bailey
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Romance
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: 26th October 2018
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 3/5

When Natalie dies, she leaves behind a grieving family in her husband Rick, her sister Sophie, and her eight year old daughter, Ariel. Sophie's entire family are Disney fanatics, her parents, Natalie, and now Ariel. Everyone, that is, apart from Sophie, who gets sweaty whenever she thinks of Disney. So, when it's Ariel's Christmas wish to go to Disney and ride her mom's favourite ride, Sophie feels like she can't deny her, even if it means going back to Hell on Earth.

Generally, I liked this book. It was a really cute read brimming with Disney and festive magic. Once Upon a Romance is a book about second chances, and falling in love with people who are necessary to your life rather than complimentary.

There was a really sweet, light and fluffy tone that was consistently fed throughout the pages. I thought that the romance had a great build up and that Ray Bueno was an adorably thought up character with an infectious personality which I didn't realise the full force of until the ending.

Although, the way Sophie rants and despises Disney lead me to believe something terrible had happened to her there, after reading the entire book I thought that her feelings felt disproportionate to her reasoning, which makes me feel mean to write but it was a bit anti-climatic when I found out the true story.

Even though I have never been to Disneyland, or Disney World, I felt that the magical descriptions gave it justice and felt very authentic as well as being gorgeously depicted and fun.

Overall, this was a really easy festive romance that ticked many boxes for me.

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Once Upon A Romance is the first in A Dream Come True Series by Alex Bailey. I love a Christmas romance, so when I saw this pop up on my recommended feed, I snapped it up. The thing I most love about this book, is the way the Ms. Bailey interweaves the love of all things Disney, with the magic of Christmas- whilst also showing a heartfelt and tender romance. This is your quintessential ‘feel-good’, and romantic Christmas story. One with all the wonder, charm and emotion I adore about Christmas stories. Ms. Bailey writes beautifully- creating wonderful quirky characters that I would love to call friends, and explore the theme parks with. She was also easily able to capture the magic of the season, and I loved the minute attention to detail that makes this story come alive.
Sophie O’Connor loves her job working for a large publishing firm as a text book editor. She is dedicated, focused and organised. She is still coming to terms with the death of her beloved sister, 10 months earlier, and is devoted to her eight-year-old niece, Ariel. With Christmas fast approaching, she is determined to make it as special as she can for Ariel, as it is the first Christmas without her mother. But when she finds out what it is that Ariel wishes for, Sophie fears she won’t be strong enough to see it through. Ariel wants to spend Christmas day at Disney World, riding her mother’s favourite amusement ride. Sophie's sister, Natalie, was a huge Disney fan and adored everything Disney- and so did their parents. Sophie, not so much, plus add the fact that Disney would hold so many memories of her sister, and Sophie wasn’t relishing the idea of spending time there. But this was Ariel’s special Christmas wish- so Sophie was determined to make it come true in every way.
But what happens when a fairly straight-laced, non-Disney Aunt has to contend with a fun-loving, and imaginative little Disney-aficionado? She might need a little help- which comes in the form of a fun-loving, Disney devotee- Ray Bueno- who adds a little magic to their Disney experience and helps to fill the hole that the loss of her sister left in her heart.
Holiday Romance at its best!!

Thank you, Ms. Bailey!

[Victoria Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy of this novel, and couldn't put it down, I read it in one sitting.

All Walt Disney fans are going to LOVE this book! I always wanted to visit a Disney park, but have never gotten the chance. But reading Once Upon A Romance, I was able to live vicariously through the characters and enjoy their Christmas vacation as if I was right there with them, with the wonderfully detailed descriptions of the sights, sounds and scents of the amazing world they were in.
And even if you’re not a Disney fan, you’ll love the gentle romance, the holiday magic, and the entertaining and sparkling writing talent of Alex Bailey.

Can't wait to read Once Upon an Engagement!

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas story that both warmed my heart and pulled at my heart strings at the same time. This story took me on not just a magical Christmas journey but also an emotional roller coaster. The characters are fun, connectable and lovable. Eight year old Ariel and her Aunt Sophie need a little Christmas magic and a stranger just might be what they need. A Christmas story to warm your heart. I highly recommend reading this story as it will put a little Christmas spirit and magic in your heart.

[Veronica Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sophie has the ultimate challenge this Christmas, making her niece Ariel’s Christmas wish come true. She wants to experience the ride at Disney World her late mother loved so much. Sofie’s still grieving the death of her beloved sister Natalie, and is afraid the trip will be bring up too many painful memories. It also means she will have to delay a holiday trip to Colorado with her boyfriend, Darren, who doesn’t take the postponement of the trip well. She doesn’t want to disappoint Ariel, but can she set aside her grief and also avoid disappointing Darren?

Through a chance encounter, Sophie and Ariel meet Professor Disney, aka Ray, who turns their Disney Christmas visit into a delightful excursion. As they enjoy the rides, exhibits and food experiences at the park–the pains of the past slowly ease as the happiness of the present takes hold. Sparks of attraction start to fly too, leading Sophie to question her strained relationship with Darren.

As their families arrive at Christmas, Sophie and Ray face their prospects for the future–will it be together, or does Santa have other plans? Author Bailey delivers a heart warming Christmas tale sure to make you smile. Her detailed descriptions of the Disney attractions make you feel like you’re right there with the characters. A great read to get you into the holiday spirit!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

Once Upon A Romance is the first in A Dream Come True Series by Alex Bailey. I love a Christmas romance, so when I saw this pop up on my recommended feed, I snapped it up. The thing I most love about this book, is the way the Ms. Bailey interweaves the love of all things Disney, with the magic of Christmas- whilst also showing a heartfelt and tender romance. This is your quintessential ‘feel-good’, and romantic Christmas story. One with all the wonder, charm and emotion I adore about Christmas stories. Ms. Bailey writes beautifully- creating wonderful quirky characters that I would love to call friends, and explore the theme parks with. She was also easily able to capture the magic of the season, and I loved the minute attention to detail that makes this story come alive.
Sophie O’Connor loves her job working for a large publishing firm as a text book editor. She is dedicated, focused and organised. She is still coming to terms with the death of her beloved sister, 10 months earlier, and is devoted to her eight-year-old niece, Ariel. With Christmas fast approaching, she is determined to make it as special as she can for Ariel, as it is the first Christmas without her mother. But when she finds out what it is that Ariel wishes for, Sophie fears she won’t be strong enough to see it through. Ariel wants to spend Christmas day at Disney World, riding her mother’s favourite amusement ride. Sophies sister, Natalie, was a huge Disney fan and adored everything Disney- and so did their parents. Sophie, not so much, plus add the fact that Disney would hold so many memories of her sister, and Sophie wasn’t relishing the idea of spending time there. But this was Ariel’s special Christmas wish- so Sophie was determined to make it come true in every way.
But what happens when a fairly straight-laced, non-Disney Aunt has to contend with a fun-loving, and imaginative little Disney-aficionado? She might need a little help- which comes in the form of a fun-loving, Disney devotee- Ray Bueno- who adds a little magic to their Disney experience and helps to fill the hole that the loss of her sister left in her heart.
Holiday Romance at its best!!

Thank you, Ms. Bailey!

[E.A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True Book 1) was a light hearted, sweet read, that gets you in the holiday feels.

My first read by this author, I was caught by the shiny christmas hallmark like read. I was sucked in right away and, even though I knew how this story was going to go, I loved every cheesy minute of it.

I liked the relationship between Sophie and Ariel, it was more then just aunt and niece. Sophie is mothering and puts Ariel first, even if her boyfriend doesn't get it. She was a great character and I won't hold her hate of Disneyland against her.. too much. Ariel is a sweet, smart kid, but I will say that some of the things she was saying, seems a little to, advance for her age. I do get that some kids are more advance, I just wasn't getting that feeling from Ariel, so her speech patterns and dialogue weren't matching. Other than that she was a great child character and really added that extra magical layer to this fairy tail like read.

As for the actual story, it's a sweet romance, and with the magicalness of the setting it has all the things I love about these type of good feel books. Sweet tender romance, heart gripping feels, beautiful setting, attention to detail and, a sweet hot man, that is too good to be true but, you can't help but root for. Even if his love interest is already taken.

Overall I can't stress enough how good and just, awesome this book is. It will put you in the holiday mood while making you want to go to Disneyland in the same breath. This book is a super high recommendation from me and, it gets my cheesy, Christmas movie stamp of approval.

Happy Reading.

-E.A. Walsh

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True Book 1)
By: Alex Bailey
5 out of 5 stars

The story Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True Book 1) by Alex Bailey is a book that I absolutely loved reading. The story caught my interest from the moment that I read that it involved a famous theme park. It hooked me in from the very beginning of the book and the “magic” of both the theme park and the holidays took over so I couldn’t put it down until I had read the final page. I loved reading about the characters of Sophie and her niece Ariel. From the moment that Sophie learns of Ariel’s wish to honor her mother’s memory by going to the one place that her mother loved so much, she knew that she must make that wish come true. Even if it meant reliving past, sometimes painful, memories. She says she will find a way to get through it for Ariel. Ariel is a young girl who although has lost her mother she is loved and supported by family. I found Ariel to be someone who takes notice of details in life and seems to be able to understand things beyond her years. When they run into a kind, friendly, and charming stranger who offers his knowledge about the theme park Sophie feels relief. Could her attitude regarding the vacation to the theme park be changing? Sophie has a boyfriend who is reliable and stable. Her heart belongs to him, doesn’t it? What does the future hold for Sophie? Will she find herself guided by the magic all around her? Will that “magic” help the charming stranger win over Sophie’s heart? Read this book to find out. This is a heartwarming story that I found myself thinking about even after I had finished the book. I love the attention to detail that the author gives. I felt like I was right there with Sophie and Ariel seeing what they did. It is also a book that had my emotions going up and down all throughout. This is a wonderfully written story that I would highly recommend reading.

[Carole Mckee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wonderful Story.

I have never been to Wait Disney World, even though I lived about an hour and a half away for fifteen years. But reading this story made me feel like I was there experiencing the magic of it. Sophie made plans to give her niece, Ariele, her Christmas wish by going to WDW with the whole family. Nature's mother, Natalie, loved anything Disney, but she passed away. The trip turned into a wonderful, magical adventure, with the he!p of Professor Disney, who brought not and a touch of magic into their trip. This is a wonderful, sweet story. I am so glad I chose it. Great job.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance brings the magic of the holidays back. It brought forth the feelings of joy and love and warm fuzzies. Also, it reminded me of the wonder of Disney, like it was when I was younger. Sophie seems to be the one in need of change and almost rescuing, she’s kind of broken and going through the motions, and her only real joy comes from spending time with her niece. Ray is a breath of fresh air and it’s amazing they end up on this journey together. Things do get emotional and touching in all the ways you want in a holiday novel. It has a happy ever after, though I wish I got an epilogue or just more of them. It was that good.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alex Bailey's Once Upon a Romance is the first book in A Dream Come True. This holiday themed story was beautifully written. My favorite character was Ariel, the niece. Even though she was not a main character, she shined in this story. That is not to say that I didn't like Sophie. I felt her character had a lot of self-discovery and growth as the story progressed and it was handled in a way that felt natural. With most of the story taking place in Disney, this tale was magical in so many ways - from the locale, to the emotions, to the people that were passing characters in the store - it all brought together the theme of a dream come true. Alex Bailey is a talented author and I felt that she did it effortlessly within this romance that focused on the emotionally ties more than the physical - you don't always feel that passion in some stories.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

When this book came up for offer on one of the many freebie eBook newsletters to which I subscribe, I thought, "Why not?" After all, I love all things Disney ... and thought that a romance set in and around Walt Disney World would be cute.

What I *didn't* expect is that this book would make me cry. And yes, it very much did.

Sophie is no fan of Disney ... and she's the only one in her family who isn't crazy about all things Walt. Her niece, Ariel, wants nothing more than to go to Walt Disney World for Christmas, and Sophie can't say no. Ariel's mother, Sophie's sister Natalie, has passed away, and Sophie wants to try to cheer the little girl up.

Sophie's hyper-achieving boyfriend, Darren, is pretty indignant about the whole thing, because he's planned a ski vacation for the two of them. Darren's ire notwithstanding, Sophie decides to go on the trip with her niece. In preparation, she joins a (fictional) Facebook group led by Professor Disney so that she can learn a few things about WDW before she gets there.

At the park, due to various circumstances, Sophie meets Professor Disney himself. Ray is a huge Disney fan and a well-known blogger, so he has all the inside scoops on what to do in the parks. Before long, Sophie finds that she's actually having a good time ... and no small amount of that is due to Ray's kindness.

I'm not usually the biggest fan of contemporary romances, but I enjoyed every bit of this book, and ordered the sequel before I was finished reading it. Highly recommended for Disney lovers, and romance lovers.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance(A Dream Come True Book 1)
By Alex Bailey
Rated 5 stars!

First off I LOVE the cover! Very holiday and Disney-ish. A Perfect Mesh! It drew me to this and after reading the synopsis I grabbed it. The story just appealed to me. A WDW fan and the love of family. Both are Win-Wins for me. One of my favorite things is how the magic of Christmas mixes with the magic of Disney.

The characters were well thought out and grew over the story. I enjoyed how grumpy and grouchy Sophie was at the beginning. She off-set Ariel’s nice attitude. Ariel was a sweetheart and a little matchmaker. The families and that one “special guy” were full of fun and happiness as well. Even the crazy characters they run across on their trip were lots of fun. They were all a great addition to the story.

I loved all the Disney themed comments, actions and fun. The rides and the lines as well as their days planned throughout each park. I really felt like I took this adventure along with them. So Fun!

This book will appeal to Disney fans and all of those who believe in a little magic. A wonderful story of learning to get over loss while opening yourself up to new possibilities. There are so many reasons to love this book.

P.S.
I enjoyed reading the acknowledgments and was surprised at all the different Disney websites that were listed. I plan to keep them for reference for my next trip.
Thanks!

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/14/2019)! 🎁

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True Book 1) by Alex Bailey is a story that is beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time and I absolutely enjoyed reading it. Making one little girls dream come true is the one thing Sophie is dreading. Pulling up her big girl panties is going to be harder than anything she has to do. That is until she comes face to face with a stranger that turns her world upside down.The story caught me from the very start of the book. I fell in love with the characters due to Alex’s attention to detail and writing skills and could picture it clearly in my mind. This heartwarming story will linger even after you have finished it. There was a lot of love weaved into this story and there are so many emotions that you will find yourself laughing and in tears the next, so grab a good drink and a box of tissues. I highly recommend that you partake in this wonderfully written story. It is a great start to the series and I can’t wait to see what is next.

[Maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know how they say "Don't Judge a Book By It's Cover"? Well I totally judged this one by the cover and I was not wrong. Between the cover and the blurb, I could not pass this story up. It's the first I've read by the author and I look forward to reading more in the series.

A simple tale, yet so complex with so many feelings. Granting a Christmas wish for a beloved niece should never be a chore - yet sometimes it's just that.

The characters in this sweet romance are complex and layered. They are well developed and helped to pull emotion from me that I wasn't necessarily feeling that day. The aunt and niece complement each other well - they are the ying to the other's yang and it was wonderful to watch the relationship grow.

This is absolutely one of those romance stories that I would recommend to YA and my mom's book club. It's full of lovely visuals and brought back memories of my own travels to Disney both as a kid and as an Auntie.

[Alisha Kreider · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the sweetest love story ih
I have read in a long time. It was full of surprises and awesome characters. And who doesn't love Disney.

[Heather Lovelace · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a good holiday story with happily ever after at its core, you've found the book for you. I loved this book and it had me grinning like an idiot like a good Hallmark movie. If you are a hopeful romantic, this is definitely a book you need to pick up. Wonderful characters. Easy pace and plot development. Just a wonderful read and perfect for the holidays.

[Kameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)

I absolutely adored Once Upon A Romance by Alex Bailey. It, without a shadow of a doubt, captured the true magic of Disney.

If you’ve never been to a Disney park, I know you’ll be booking a vacation there after you read Once Upon A Romance. Alex Bailey’s love for Disney shines throughout the story. If you have been to a park before, then I’m sure it’ll bring back fond memories of your time there. It did that for me.

Like Sophie, Ariel, and Ray, I stayed at the Animal Kingdom resort. I didn’t go during the Christmas season but my time there was no less magical. Like Ariel, I was captivated by the wildlife grazing below my balcony. The resort is pricey but well worth every penny.

Disney is ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’ for a reason. It brings joy to hearts, no matter what age, gender, ethnicity, color, and so on. Disney is all about love and happiness. Once Upon A Romance was all about love and happiness as well: the love for a deceased wife/mother/sister/daughter, the love for a deceased fiancée, the love and compassion a child expresses for everyone, and the love blossoming between two people.

I just can’t praise Alex Bailey enough for this feel-good book. I encourage everyone, young and old, to read Once Upon A Romance. It will warm your heart and make you smile.

(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance is a delightful holiday read for any time of the year. With Bailey’s lovely descriptive writing, I felt as though I’d taken a trip to Walt Disney World without ever leaving my elliptical. The strong character development pulled me into the story from the start. I fell in love with Ariel and pulled for Sophie to ditch Darren from the start. Sorry Darren. And Ray…I loved him! This is a magical, feel good story that will leave you wanting to hop on the next plane to Disney. I’m looking forward to reading more by this talented author.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is just so many good things to rave about with Once Upon a Romance from Alex Bailey! I must first start with that gorgeous cover! It screamed pick me up, you will find a swoony prince and a hapless princess who doesn’t know her worth somewhere amongst the storyline, much like one of my favorite tales of all time, Cinderella, or better yet a Disney love story in general is a theme that is ever present throughout Once Upon a Romance. I adored that theme and this was also collectively portrayed in the cover.

The Disney theme is strong in other ways throughout the book, even in the character names. I really loved how this author was able to bring to life the characters that I so loved and my kiddo loved, but in a new and older, reimagined and modern way. This isn’t your classic fairytale, but rather with a twist that will keep you swooning and on your toes from the very first page till the end. I was so excited to learn that this novel is book one of a series so there will be more to come as well!

Sophie O’Connor has the life she has always dreamed of, including her dream job as a text book editor. However, her recent loss of her sister has her main focus on her eight year old niece, Ariel. Her current dilema is Ariel’s Christmas wish; spend Christmas day in Disney World riding the rides her mother loved. This just happens to also be Sophie’s worst nightmare. When a little Disney magic and a little Christmas magic combine with a man named Ray Bueno, a wonderful, romantic, whimsical, and cheerful story unfolds right before you eyes. It is almost as if you are watching one of your favorite Hallmark Holiday romance movies. Grab your hot drink, warm blanket, and fuzzy socks, you won't want to get up till you finish this one in one sitting!

[Erin Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance is the first book in Alex Bailey’s a Dream Come True series. All books will be set in Walt Disney World, and follow different couples as they find love in the most magical place on earth. Once Upon a Romance focuses on Sophie and her adorable niece, Ariel, as they make their way to Disney World for Christmas, as per Ariel’s Christmas wish. Except it is all sunshine and rainbows for Sophie. After losing her sister to breast cancer, the last place she wants to be is the Magic Kingdom, reliving her childhood, without her sister. But as fate would have it, she meets Professor Disney, that vows to help her make sure Ariel has the most magical Christmas she could ever dream of.
I really enjoyed this fluffy Christmas romance. It may or may have not made me plan my next holiday to Disney World. I absolutely adore all things Disney and romance, and could not turn down a book that ticks all the boxes. I fell in love with Ray, and his extensive knowledge of Disney and all things nerdy. I’ll take two of him any day. I also really enjoyed the building chemistry between Ray and Sophie, and how they interacted with Ariel. I also loved the level of description Bailey went into when describing the park, and all the rides; it felt as though I was right there next to them. Which only made me even more desperate to get to the nearest Disney Land, which happens to be on the other side of the world (the joys of living in Australia). I do wish there was more of an ending and I got to see a bit more of the characters, but it still ended very cute and fluffy.
I gave Once Upon a Romance 5/5 stars

[Marsha Keeper Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

I am a card-carrying Disney-aholic, and in fact just visited Disney World two months ago. So, Once Upon A Romance was a perfect fit for me If you have visited Walt Disney World, want to visit WDW or spend lots of time at Disneyland… or have simply heard of this magical place – and – you love a really good romance then this is your Magic Kingdom pass.

Sophie’s family loves everything Disney and she has thousands of memories spent with her sister at the theme park over the years. But this is the first Christmas since her sister’s death, and once Sophie discovers that her niece, Ariel, has one wish to ride her mom’s favorite Disney ride to honor her this Christmas… well, what’s an aunt to do but try to make that dream come true, no matter how much it’s going to hurt. Never expecting to meet the perfect man for her (since she has a lackadaisical boyfriend), Sophie discovers so much more than painful memories this Christmas… she finds love, and hope and a peace that she never thought to find again.

I enjoyed Once Upon A Romance very much. It brought not only a touching, emotional romance between Sophie and Ray but so many personal memories of my own from this magical place. I do have to admit, I would have loved to have someone with so much detailed Disney information along on my trips that would take those moments to the next level and beyond. *grin* Oh well. If you’re in the mood for a Christmas Romance filled with all types of magic and enjoy getting in on the first story in a series then you’ll enjoy Once Upon A Romance. I know I did and I’ll be watching for what comes next.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[S.S. Bazinet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, as we’re growing up, we build walls around our heart to protect ourselves. Sometimes those walls can keep us from letting in the love we all deserve. In Sophie’s case, she’s grown up feeling like the outsider in a family who are all huge Disney fans. Since her family spent almost every vacation at Disney World, and Sophie never understood the magic they felt, it’s been a tough situation that’s kept her wondering why she’s the one who’s different.

After the death of her sister, Sophie’s heartbroken and grieving over her loss. However, when her niece’s biggest wish is to spend Christmas at Disney World, Sophie knows she has to do everything she can to make that wish come true. Forced to revisit a place that’s pure delight for most, Sophie once again feels her inability to understand their attitude. Her boyfriend, Darren, reflects her feelings. He’s not a Disney person either. He’s also not able to be very supportive of Sophie’s deep commitment to her niece’s needs. He’s very disappointed when Sophie has to opt out of their planned ski vacation.

On her own in Disney World with her niece, Ariel, Sophie is emotionally challenged. Luckily, she meets a man named Ray who’s also known as Professor Disney. Ray is Darren’s opposite. He’s a people person who couldn’t be nicer to Sophie and her niece. Without being pushy, he’s a shining example of kindness and lighthearted fun. As Sophie slowly learns to trust Ray, she learns more about herself and how to trust that she can be a part of the magic too.

“Once Upon a Romance” is filled with Christmas delight and Disney magic. Five stars for this sweet, gently-unfolding story of self-discovery and unexpected romance!

[JoAnne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Playful, engaging, full of romance and all things Disney capped off by a trip to Walt Disney World in Florida at Christmas. Sophie is against all things Disney since she grew up in a family that loved Disney and all its magic. Her eight year old niece is all in for Disney too and her name is Ariel - her mom's favorite Disney Princess. Her mom died within the year and Ariel's wish is for a family trip to Disney in her mom's memory and Aunt Sophie is the one to take her. Everyone else will meet them there on Christmas Eve. Once there the magic takes hold of Sophie but it may have something to do with meeting Ray, known as Professor Disney, who had answered questions she posted on his blog. When they unexpectedly meet and hang out is the Disney magic at work? There's also the real Santa that Ariel tells her wishes too.

Sophie's boyfriend Darren wasn't a likable fellow. He brought everyone down around him including Sophie. There are a lot of family dynamics going on and it was interesting to watch. The story has a few twists and turns and a lot of surprises especially where Ariel, Sophie and Ray are concerned. There is wonderful closure and a chance for a happily ever after that's alluded to. The cover was spot on! I haven't been to Disney World in Florida for probably close to twenty years but I felt like I was there with all the descriptions and talks of exhibits, rides, food and more.

Ms. Bailey is a new to me author and I look forward to reading more of her books.

[Michelle Mulvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once upon a romance by Alex Bailey was a great feel good book. This is the first book Ive read by this author and was pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to read and how much I enjoyed it. Sophie grew up with an older sister and parents who were all obsessed with Disney World. Sophie never really understood why she didn’t enjoy going as much but it makes sense to her later in the book why.

Sophie should be visiting her boyfriend Darren’s family for Christmas this year until she finds out her niece Ariel asked Santa for one thing this year....to go to Disney. Ariel’s mom passed away a few months prior and it has been very rough on her. Sophie knows, she has to do what’s right and bring Ariel to WDW even if she has no desire to go. While in Disney she meets a man named Ray who also runs a Facebook page and is known as Professor Disney. Ray seems a little off to Sophie but, Ariel really enjoys his company so Sophie lets him tag along with them since he knows everything about Disney. Add a little pixie dist and a toothless Santa and anything can happen. How will Darren feel when he comes to Disney on Christmas Eve and finds out all about Ray.
I thought this was a well written book and it kept my attention.

[Felicia Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance
(A Dream Come True Book 1)
Alex Bailey

4 out of 5 stars
There are few things more magical than Christmas or Disney in my opinion, so when you combine the two with romance as well, you’re in for a really good time.
Once Upon a Romance is the first book I’ve read by Alex Bailey but it didn’t disappoint, let’s just say I was pleased to learn this is the first book in a series!
I feel like a great book has imagery and characters that make you feel like you’re part of the story within the pages. How awesome is it to have a story that transports you to Disney? I felt that Alex Bailey’s writing was strong throughout the entire book, evoking several emotions along the way. There was a great balance of seriousness with the loss of a mother and sibling to fun, lightheartedness.
When I stumbled across Once Upon a Romance I was immediately attracted to eye catching cover art and I am pleased to say the actual storyline is just as captivating. I am looking forward to seeing what more Alex Bailey and the Dream Come True Series.

[Elizabeth Eckert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my! What a perfectly darling romance. I simply hung off each page!
Having recently been to WDW (thank you Make a Wish Foundation), I found myself transported back knee-deep in all the beauty, action and of course... magic!
Each character in this beautiful novel allows you to see the fantastic world of Disney, courage through loss, and the glory of being who you are, throught their eyes! I could smell the coffee (Joffre's??), see the sparkling lights, revel in the exhilaration and feel the emotions.
The references to SW and Canada made this story so personal to me and I will treasure it always.
Ariel, Ray and Sophie will not soon be forgotten!!!
This is the 2nd book I have read by Alex Bailey and I must say I would read a receipt over and over if it was written by her!
This is a darling gem to remember always and has been a huge inspiration to me! Thank you for giving the world yet another perfect novel!!

[Jana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Romance is the first book in Alex Bailey’s A Dream Come True series. What an opening it was! It hit just the right spot for the holidays as it takes place in “The Most Magical Place on Earth” during Christmas holidays! I am curious to see what direction she will take her series and who will be the leads in the next story!
Once Upon a Romance is the story of Sophie O’Connor and Ray Bueno aka Professor Disney. Sophie’s sister Natalie died ten months ago and this is the first Christmas without her and Natalie’s daughter Ariel’s Christmas wish is to spend Christmas day at Disney World riding her mother’s favourite amusement ride … the only snag is that Sophie is not a Disney fan like the rest of her family!
It is a beautiful heart-warming story of magical meetings in a magical place, it is a story of healing and new loves … It is just what doctor prescribed for these dreary dark nights leading up to holidays!