A small-town judge meets her match in a rodeo star troublemaker, but soon they may both end up targets of the town's matchmakers in this delightful and heartwarming tale of romance.
Darcy Jones Harper is thrilled to have finally shed her reputation as the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. The people of Sunshine Valley have to respect her now that she’s the new town judge. But when the bad boy who broke her heart back in high school shows up in her courtroom, she realizes maybe things haven’t changed so much after all . . . because her pulse still races at the sight of him.
Jason Petrie wants to make amends for the mistakes of his youth—starting with the woman he never stopped loving. Darcy may not believe that he really intends to quit the bull riding circuit and stick around this time but Jason vows—with the help of the matchmaking Widows Club—to pull out all the stops to convince her that they both deserve a second chance.
Prior to writing romance, award-winning, USA Today Bestseller Melinda Curtis was a junior manager for a Fortune 500 company, which meant when she flew on the private jet she was relegated to the jump seat—otherwise known as the potty. After grabbing her pen (and a parachute) she made the jump to full-time writer. Between writing sweet romance and sweet romantic comedy, Melinda finds time to bond with her husband over home remodeling projects. She recently came to grips with the fact that she’s an empty nester and a grandma, concepts easier to grasp than jet-setting on a potty.
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I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dream a Little Dream gave me lots of characters to loathe. Mostly the side characters because hot damn - they needed a swift kick to the no no zone a couple of times. As for the main characters, Darcy and Jason, I kind of liked them. Or maybe I just liked the idea of them getting another shot at romance together.
These two had great chemistry and it was obvious that the feelings were still there. I just wasn't fully invested in them. It kind of felt like I didn't truly know anyone in this book. Decisions that were made just didn't make sense to me. So I'll admit that I was easily confused when it came to them. Plus the drama about Darcy being a temporary judge just completely baffled me. I just didn't get it.
In the end, it was an okay book and I'm glad that I got the chance to dive into it.
Darcy grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, and now with much of her family in jail for their past bad acts, she’s trying (and has tried) to overcome the stigma of being a “Jones” in a town that she believes will never let her forget it. Her one constant and true friend has always been Jason: since landing himself in hot water as a child, he’s always been on Darcy’s side – and the two formed a bond that is stronger than either one of them ever understood. But while Jason chased his dreams, money and fame on the bull riding circuit, Darcy was working on moving forward: going first to university then on to law school all under the patient tutelage of George Harper, local judge and man who always kept an eye on her.
With everything in tumult and Darcy feeling very alone, she accepted George’s proposal of marriage when she believed Jason had moved on. Her reasoning was that she owed George something – and in return George would walk her through her law courses, protect her with his name and polish up her rough edges. But now he’s gone and has manipulated her into taking the ‘appointment’ as judge in his stead: giving her a step up. Of course, he didn’t go quietly –as he’s constantly speaking to her from the grave: but she’s not the only one. With the Widow’s club of Sunshine Valley working their magic to ‘match’ deserving people, one of their own finding her ‘mojo’ again and looking for the opportunity to date again, and the ladies now focused on Jason and Darcy as Jason is healing from a major injury – the story just winds and weaves into a series of laugh out loud moments, a gaseous and toothless dog, some overt and covert interference from George’s true love and one time housekeeper, Darcy’s own lack of confidence and shame about her family name – and of course, Love.
Much like the first in the series, Curtis uses laughter, confidence (or lack of), attraction and some well-meaning (or not so) interference to get her characters into places that they need to be. Friendships and connections between the people in town (and a few new entrants to the Sunshine Valley community) a bit of ‘new tech’ used to bring everyone together (after much masterminding from the Widow’s club) that sense of community and goodwill, and some true moments where hearts and minds are searched, changed and settled make this a lovely story – fun, uplifting and hopeful.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Dream A Little Dream by Melinda Curtis is an engaging, small town romance. I loved the characters, the conflict and the author’s voice. Melinda Curtis has created a great group of characters—the matchmaking Widows Club. These ladies are awesome and their schemes are filled with so much laughter and love—you can’t put down this book! The Widows Club have decided to reunite Darcy Jones Harper and Jason Petrie. Darcy Jones Harper is doing her best to put her troubled childhood in the past, coping with widowhood and being named interim county judge. Darcy has very little experience practicing law and faces an uphill battle each time she enters the courtroom. Melinda Curtis conveys Darcy’s feelings perfectly. I could connect with her feelings of self-doubt and loved how she emerged from her cocoon. Jason Petrie is at a crossroads-he’s recovering from an injury and desperately wants a second chance with Darcy. Jason is determined to win Darcy back and he enlists the Widows Club to help him. Melinda Curtis does a fabulous job fleshing out the secondary characters of Iggy and Ken; Jason’s friend and manager. Loved the well written video scenes with Jason, Iggy and Bitsy—these pages are filled with emotion, witty dialogue and provide insight into the characters. Melinda Curtis is a new-to-me author. Loved the chemistry between Darcy and Jason, their romantic journey and the small town atmosphere. Dream A Little Dream is well written, the characters are engaging and the story is heartwarming. I am looking forward to the next story in this series!
Dream a Little Dream sweeps you away to the small town of Sunshine Valley and into the life of Darcy Jones Harper, a young woman struggling to overcome her family’s reputation as well as her own feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness, and Jason Petrie, a professional bull rider who seems to finally be ready to move on and focus on a future that includes settling down and having a family of his own.
The writing is light and sweet. The characters are kind, supportive and endearing. And the plot is an optimistic, humorous tale about life, love, loss, family, friendship, self-reflection, forgiveness, contentment, community, romance, and finding one’s true self.
Overall, Dream a Little Dream is a cute, heartwarming, funny tale with dabs of heartfelt moments that I really enjoyed. It’s the perfect addition to the Sunshine Valley series, and I can’t wait to read more.
Thank you to Forever & Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Using a perfectly balanced blend of humor and emotion, Melinda Curtis has created another sweet, witty, and heart-tugging journey to love that had me eagerly turning pages from beginning to end. I love this quirky community of characters that Curtis has created with a wacky band of matchmaking widows at its core. You just never know which couple will land in their sights next.
Second-chance romances are one of my favorite tropes and Jason's and Darcy's romance came with some unexpected twists that I did not expect but that gave their story, and their characters, extra depth. I appreciated Darcy's complexity and her struggle with self-acceptance and forgiveness. I enjoyed her relationship with the gassy, digestive-challenged dog she inherited and the role he played in her journey. I flat-out loved that dog. Jason was no less complex as he struggled with his own life decisions while doing his level best to win Darcy back. I loved how supportive he was, how he accepted responsibility for his part in what led to their parting ways, and how determined he was to do right by the woman he loved the second time around.
As is typically the case in Sunshine Valley, the main couple aren't the only characters in the spotlight in this book. There's an unlikely mature couple in the making, peeks into relationships that were center stage in the first two books, dysfunctional family dynamics to sort through, stages of grief to navigate for Darcy's late (much older) husband's girlfriend (trust me, it will all make sense), and (frequently unwanted) advice from Judge George Harper (the late husband) who seems to be living in both Darcy's and Jason's minds. Apparently, the Judge, who guided them both through their teens, doesn't see any need to stop imparting wisdom simply because he's beyond the veil.
Once again, a trip to Sunshine Valley had me laughing out loud, sniffling a bit, smiling a lot, and eager for future visits. There are many more intriguing characters ripe and ready for matchmaking and I am here for them all.
4.5 stars ARC received via NetGalley for fair and unbiased review
Darcy Jones Harper has always felt like an imposter. With a family known for swindling, stealing, and cheating, Darcy is the sole member who went in the opposite direction by studying to become a lawyer. Now, as the newly appointed judge in Sunshine, she fears people will see through the visage, especially since she was given the position by her deceased husband, whom she also married on a whim when she caught her long-time boyfriend, Jason, in a compromising position with another woman. As Darcy battles with her own self-worth and town rejection, she'll have to decide if she's willing to give Jason another chance as well as giving herself a chance as happiness.
Jason Petrie is a three time bull-riding champion who, after an injury, is starting to re-evaluate his future. A future, until recently, that he thought included Darcy - until she unexpectedly married her mentor George Harper. Now, Jason has a lot to make up for, and possibly just a little bit more growing up to do if he wants to convince Darcy to give him a second chance along with making sure she realizes how much she's worth it all.
I did not read the first two books in this series. I felt like there were definitely some places where I maybe missed a bit of character setup - at least I hope that was the case because I definitely wanted a bit more from the Darcy and Jason relationship. They have supposedly been together since practically childhood - so a long time - yet in a somewhat rash decision Darcy marries someone else after she sees Jason kiss another woman on television after one of his shows.
When the book opens Darcy is a widow and Jason is trying to get her back. So all the conflict that happens between them has passed already. I don't know if things unfolded more in a previous book or if it all happened off page. If the latter, if kept me from really feeling a connect between the betrayal that Darcy obviously felt enough that lead her to marry a much older man out of the blue. The other reasons behind the marriage are kind of strung along and just felt a bit...odd, I guess. Like we didn't have so long to learn the full reasons for Darcy's marriage or how her appointment to judge really kicked her imposter-syndrome into high-gear. But instead of maybe coming to the point on some of these matters a little more quickly we are strung along, and I felt like that meant there was less focus placed on Jason and Darcy really figuring out their relationship. They both obviously have things to work on individually in order for them to work out together, but I felt like enough focus wasn't placed on getting them to that point. There were too many other things added to the mix, that in the end, to me, didn't really change the story one way or another for better or worse.
I will say the shining point of the book for me focused on Bitsy, a member of the Widow's Club - a group of widows who like to play matchmaker around town - and one of Darcy's nemeses, Rupert. I really don't think that there are enough romances that highlight finding love - or having crushes, or having romantic feelings - for older women - or men. Bitsy has been widowed three times and she's starting to feel the "twitch" to get into a new relationship, but she's also scared because she's lost too many men that she's loved. Plus, there's the "unconventionality" that she's an older women interested in a younger man. I enjoyed so much seeing Bitsy and Rupert kind of dance around each other. I would have gladly had them be the featured pair of the story, but I was so happy they were at least secondary, and I loved every point of view we got from Bitsy.
Despite feeling like the story got bogged down with too much going on, it really had some wonderful moments and when it got it right, boy, did it get it right. I loved seeing both Darcy and Jason grow up - for all intents and purposes. Seeing them really figure out what they wanted their lives to look like, and whether or not their lives could include each other. Working through their misgivings about themselves and their fears. Those were such highlights of the story and when Melinda Curtis hit these topics, she did so with such poignancy. I'm looking forward to going back and reading the other books in the series and acquainting myself more with the characters I met in this book. And I'm very interested to see who will feature next.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
After the passing of her husband, Darcy Jones Harper feels so alone. The people of Sunshine look down on her because of her family's reputation. Her marriage to the elderly Judge Harper hadn't helped either. Things get even worse when she's appointed to her late husband's judgeship. My heart broke for Darcy. She's a really good person but her insecurities run deep. Her true love, Jason, wants to win her back. She left him after she saw him in a passionately embrace. Will he be successful? I hoped so. They are perfect together but I wasn't sure. Everything seems to be such a mess. Melinda Curtis had me worried. I was really concerned about Darcy, but I shouldn't have been. The Widow's Club had a plan and Jason won't give up on Darcy and their HEA. I became emotionally invested in this story. I cared for these characters. The plot is complex and had unexpected surprises. I couldn't stop reading until I found out what happened. Jason's agent, Ken, was a smart and savvy man who added charm and humor to the story. He better watch his back. He might find his forever love. You never know what's going to happen in Sunshine. I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
Thank you to Netgalley and Forever Pub for an early copy of Dream a Little Dream in exchange for my honest review. Dream a Little Dream is available February 23, 2021.
We are back in Sunshine Valley for this second chance romance. Rodeo star Jason Petrie is recovering from leg surgery and pining for his love, Darcy Jones Harper. Jason ruined his relationship with Darcy and is looking for a way to get back into her graces. After having her hear broken, Darcy Jones married George Harper. George was Darcy's former mentor who asked her to marry him following his own hearbreak and medical illness. A year later, Darcy is newly widowed so the Widows Club make it their mission to get Darcy and Jason back together because who knows how to get couples together quite like the Widows Club.
This is my second book in the Sunshine Valley series. I'm loving this series so far. Dream a Little Dream is a closed-door romance which I'm honestly not always in the mood for. I love myself some open-door steamy romances. I will say the closed-door concept worked well with this story. Darcy is newly appointed as a judge in Sunshine Valley following the death of her husband who was the previous judge. Because of her new position she's afraid to let loose and get too wild like she did in the past, especially when it comes to Jason. The closed-door nature of this romance made sense with that knowledge. I found myself rooting for Jason and Darcy from the beginning. I was introduced to their romance in A Very Merry Match, the previous book in this series, so it came as no surprised they'd be the focus of this novel. Although the romance takes centerstage, this novel is also about forgiveness, grief, and learning to move on after heartbreak. As a side character, Stogey does steal the show a little bit. As a dog lover you can't help but fall in love with Stogey too.
I hope this isn't the last of this series because I need to have more. I can already foresee some future characters' romances that could be explored and I really hope we'll get to see them.
This second chance romance was really sweet! When people grow up in love, things can happen to tear them apart. Jason was on the rodeo circuit, and was contractually (for promotion) given a kiss by another woman. That broke Darcy's heart, and when they broke up, she married a kind older man, who ended up passing away. When Darcy is appointed the interum judge in Sunshine Valley, it doesn't go over well with George's children. They felt entitled to the position, but George wanted Darcy to have it. Darcy doesn't feel comfortable in the position, and listen to the horrible things people around town say. Jason doesn't go back on the circuit, because he is bound and determined to win Darcy back, and to settle down and figure everything out so that they can be together. This has a secondary romance with one of Darcy's stepsons, and one of the women from the Widow's Club, and I adored how sweet that was! Love is deserved at every age!
All in all, I have really enjoyed this entire series so far! Can't wait to see what happens next!
Darcy Jones has had a busy year… she has broken up with her childhood sweetheart, married her mentor, become a widow and is now stepping into her deceased husbands robes and taking up the town judgeship. SO, all she needs I her redo working ex boyfriend back in town to add more drama to her life!
Jason Petrie has regretted his mistakes ever since Darcy left him last year… he is willing to do whatever it takes to get her back. With the help of the local Widows league, his agent, his best friend and a gaseous pug he will ensure that he doesn’t add to Darcy’s troubles, but lightens her load. He will be the man she needs and hopefully her future.
I found Jason and the town of Sunshine Valley cute and welcoming, but Darcy was a bit of an enigma. She had a very chameleon like personality and she was trying to find her colours in this new position she has found herself in. In doing so, she pushes away from people who care about her and gives too much to those who don’t. It was hard to read her struggling on her own.
In the end, this was sweet romance where I found myself rooting for the hero to win back his love and fix all her problems from the get go, only to find that they get there in the end, but the road has many bumps in it!
Dream a Little Dream by Melinda Curtis is scheduled to release February 23rd, 2021.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Forever Grand Central Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
"Dream a Little Dream" (Sunshine Valley Book 3) by Melinda Curtis is a fabulous read. I loved Darcy and Jason's story. I enjoyed visiting all these entertaining characters in Sunshine Valley again. This story is a clean romance, packed with humor, entertaining characters, small-town life, cowboys, close friends, and more. I can't wait to see what happens next in Sunshine Valley. Highly recommend to all fans of clean romance, humor, small-town life, friends, and series.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of this book. I have enjoyed the other books in this series and looked forward to coming back to this small town. This story focuses on second chance romance between Darcy & Jason. It also speaks of elements of grief, self doubt and acceptance of who you are. I enjoyed the book but felt there was a lot to going. I am sure the additional story lines is to setup for future books but it distracted me from Darcy and Jason. Overall a good closed door romance.
Darcy used to date Jason but he went off to the rodeo. When they broke up- Darcy felt like the town didn't respect her. Her friend and mentor George knew he was dying he asked Darcy to marry him.
Parts of the book are sad but the way she tells her story Darcy keeps talking to George's ghost. Really enjoyed the book - you should check it out.
Dream a Little Dream is the third title in the Sunshine Valley series and brings us the story of Darcy and Jason who we’ve been introduced to previously as they made an appearance in A Very Merry Match. If you haven’t read the entire series, don’t let that hold you back from an emotional second chance for two childhood sweethearts who made choices that changed the course of their lives for years.
Darcy is the new, temporarily appointed judge for her small town after her husband’s death who was the previous judge and had set in motion the handing down of the position to his widow. To say that his decision was not well received by several of the townsfolk would be an understatement. Darcy had married George, who was older than she was and had been a mentor to her as she set out to get a life far different than her family’s. They each had their reasons, there was affection between them but not the burning love she’d had for the town bad boy and a future bull rider, Jason. No, Jason lost Darcy when she saw him kiss another woman after a rodeo win – even though it wasn’t a romantic kiss. Darcy believed otherwise and broke off their relationship and built her life in the law, as a lawyer, and eventually as George’s wife.
Now she’s sitting on the bench as judge and Jason is back in town after an injury, re-evaluating what he wants his life to be now. And what he wants most is Darcy back in his life, at his side. Yet, the reality is that both Jason and Darcy still have some growing up to do, some letting go of the past, and seeing each other with new eyes as the different people they are now. But all that is nothing the town’s Widow Club matchmakers cannot handle as they set out to get this couple back together and on their way to happiness. It’s not going to be an easy journey, there are potholes along this road for both Darcy and Jason to face and overcome before their happy ever after has a chance of becoming a reality. Yet, when the love is, and always has been, real and the timing finally is right – love wins every time.
I enjoyed Dream a Little Dream very much. I love a small-town romance, it’s where I grew up so I’m comfortable with the unique situations that living in a small town where everyone knows your business, even if they get the details wrong, is like. So returning to Sunshine Valley is always a trip back home for me in many ways. The writing, as usual, is smooth, the plot detailed, and the romance definitely closed doors. We’ll find another romance brewing in the background, one that I smiled and chuckled at when they were on-page. Jason really has to work to get Darcy to give him a second chance, as she’s deep in impostor syndrome feelings with her appointment to the judge’s position, as well as knowing her family’s reputation in town isn’t anything to be proud of. Add in some tensions from some people in town who believe she shouldn’t be the judge and you’ll find that Darcy is dealing with a lot of plates juggled in her hands. Watching how both Jason and Darcy grew through their story, the re-kindling of a love that never really died, and the hope forming for their future was a delightful, emotional journey. Now, it’s time to wait for the next visit to Sunshine Valley (and I really hope there is another visit soon).
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher, Forever 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.*
Dream a Little Dream is perfect for anyone looking for a cutesy, Hallmark-esque, PG romance with an ensemble of interesting characters. In this Sunshine Valley novel, Darcy Jones Harper, within the last year or so, has graduated law school, taken an interesting trip to Las Vegas, broken up with her long-term boyfriend, passed the bar exam, gotten married, lost her husband, gained an ever-tooting French bulldog named Stogey, and become the newly appointed judge for Sunshine Valley. Jason Petrie, on the other hand, has been recovering from a leg injury he got while on the bull riding circuit, pining over Darcy, and wondering how he can get her back.
This second-chance romance follows Darcy as she deals with the grief and loss following her husband’s death and the unexpected responsibility of having to fill his shoes as the judge of the very small town she grew up in, where her family has an infamous reputation as conmen and convicts. This new responsibility brings up a lot of insecurities, challenges, and worries for Darcy, most notably imposter syndrome. It also invokes feelings of guilt about her marriage with George and loneliness.
Jason seems to be the only remedy available for Darcy’s loneliness, according to the Widows Club board members. This group of eccentric, meddling widows make it their goal to match fellow widows up with hopes that they can find love again. Will their nudging help Jason win Darcy back, or will Darcy be too focused on her new appointment to let love back in?
Dream a Little Dream is the first book of the Sunshine Valley series that I have read, which makes me wonder if that is one of the reasons that I didn’t feel very invested in Darcy and Jason’s rekindling.
My favorite parts of the book involved the Widows Club, who were the heart, soul, and funny bone of the book, and Stogey, who had perfect comedic timing.
Favorite Quotes:
“I think people who stop to appreciate what they’ve got are happier in general.”
“Chin up, smile on, bazingas forward.”
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Darcy Jones and Jason Petrie met when they were troubled teenagers, fell in love, and turned their lives around. Their love seemed set in stone until Darcy saw Jason kiss a woman after winning at bull riding, a kiss that seemed more ardent than advertising. At least to Darcy so she broke them up and then married Judge Harper, who had been her mentor for years. But now the Judge is dead and Darcy’s suddenly the town judge and has a reputation to uphold, one that being with Jason could only ruin.
I had not read a Melinda Curtis book until the Sunshine Valley series, but now I’m going to be a faithful reader and if that had ever been in doubt, Dream a Little Dream cemented it. In this series, Curtis has created a wonderful cast of multi-layered characters, all different in their own ways, and some delightfully eccentric. She even tackles multi-generation point-of-views, which is rarely done in romance novels. My only criticism regarding her characterization of some of her 60-plus-year old characters is that they seem older than the 60-plus-year olds I know in real life. Truly, 60 is the new 50.
The pairing of Darcy and Jason is romantic, sweet, and lovely. Jason turned out to be my favorite character in the novel, which I didn’t expect on the way in. He seems to always be thinking of Darcy, and one presumes that this has always been the case. He remembers her favorite thinks, her habits, and the date of her mother’s birthday and what that will mean to her. His character was one element that made this novel work so exceptionally well for me. Jason is a Prince Charming in a Stetson and Fryes.
I also liked the way the romance unfolded. There wasn’t the angsty, push-and-pull stuff that I no longer find romantic. Darcy and Jason felt like a mature (mostly, Jason took awhile to get that title despite being a Prince Charming) couple, acknowledging how they felt, and, on Darcy’s part, why it probably wouldn’t/couldn’t work.
Dream a Little Dream is warm-hearted, funny, and great escapism. And, it’s due to Melinda Curtis’ ability to create characters that her readers care about that makes this novel so very good. I’m hoping that we’ll go back to Sunshine Valley for another installment.
While the Sunshine Valley series is a series with recurring characters, Dream a Little Dream could be read as a standalone although I believe you’d enjoy bingeing on the entire series just to keep up with the antics of the Widows Clubs and Darcy and her friends.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dream a Little Dream is the first book that I've read by Melinda Curtis and I enjoyed it very much! I love small-town romances, plus this was a second chance romance, so that was a bonus as well!
Darcy Jones Harper has always felt like she doesn't fit in. Her family doesn't have the best reputation in Sunshine to say the least. They are known for breaking the law and ending up behind bars. Darcy didn't want to be anything like the rest of her family, so she made a concerted effort to make sure she was different from her family. She went on to study law and become a lawyer and now she's just been appointed the judge of her small hometown. The appointment comes courtesy of her recently deceased husband, who she married after catching her longtime boyfriend, Jason in a compromising position. She still feels like she shouldn't be where she is and she's having many thoughts of self doubt. Will she allow herself the happiness she's always wanted or will she continue to let her thoughts override what she really wants out of life.
Jason Petrie has been a world-class bull rider for many years. He recently was hurt and so he's back in his hometown recouping, however he's close to the point where he could rejoin the rodeo circuit. While he's been home, he wants to win back the one woman he's always loved and lost, Darcy. Even though she dumped him and married someone else, his love for her hasn't waned. He's dealing with issues at the business he owns with one of his friends along with trying to figure out how to win back the love of his life.
Jason and Darcy reconnect, but between Darcy's insecurities and Jason's issue of trying to figure out what his future looks like, there are a lot of questions about if this relationship will end up making it. Add in some other potential hurdles and this duo has plenty to overcome to get their happily ever after.
I enjoyed the other players in this story, as they added a lot of texture and the stories were interesting. It was also nice to see how both Darcy and Jason evolved as people over the course of the story. This was definitely and enjoyable read for me.
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher**
I've been really enjoying the #SunshineValley series by Melinda Curtis. She's done a great job of writing her town and the people who live there. You want to know more about them. Plus let's admit it the cover really draws you in.
I really liked Darcy in the prior books and couldn't wait for her story. The shocking part is that I had trouble getting into it. I'm not even sure why. It wasn't for long maybe a chapter but enough that I kept putting it down.
Really pissed me off since I was looking forward to reading it.
The good news is that after having a bit of a challenge getting throw that chapter it was smooth sailing from there. Thankfully! Once I was able to get into the story I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed how Darcy handled her life and what came of it after her husband's death. She had some going against her before that I'm not even sure how she kept going in this town.
I spent a lot of time being pissed off at people for her. So many treated her badly and really shouldn't have. She's a very sweet, good, caring person. I really like her. Now Jason is a different story. I didn't really have a problem with him per se, it was just I felt he needed to grow up some. I understood why he did what he did. I just don't think he got it.
Jason wants the best for Darcy and feels that he's working hard to give her that but I have to wonder if it's really for him. He wants to give her everything and is working hard to make the money to do so but the only thing she wants and doesn't have is him.
With time they both working it out with a little help from George. I love how much George helped them. And shouldn't he have. He wasn't really fair to Darcy either. Those who are reading this series will really enjoy Dream a Little Dream very much. I kinda think that Iggy is who put me off a bit in the beginning. I'm not sure how I feel about him.
I bought this book for 3 reasons: the bright and adorable cover, the title inferred the book was about something related to daydreaming, and the MC is a judge because the law/legal system enthralls me.
This is practically a script for Hallmark. I’ve found that while I don’t like watching Hallmark, I don’t mind reading it which has been an unexpected discovery. This was a sweet little story about love lost, redemption, forgiveness, coming to terms with your past, perseverance in the face of opposition, virtue, pure love and devotion, building confidence, bridging the gap between your past self and the person you want to become, compassion, death and acceptance of it…so a reader would be bound to stumble upon a theme that hits close to home, which makes this kind of a book a universal read for all to enjoy/relate to.
Only two critiques: I didn’t like all the references to dog farts. The dog has digestive issues—we FREAKING get it. Don’t get me wrong, I love toilet humor the same way as an 8yo boy and can rip one with the sheer force and pitch of a grown man but the way it was presented in this book was cheesy and overdone by the 10th+ reference. Also, mentioning everyone’s first, middle and/or last names incessantly throughout the book (even after the character has been *WELL* established) is annoying and also very cheesy. This is only a 336pg read. There isn’t enough time for a reader to forget who is who. Though, Tolstoy could’ve taken a page from Curtis’ playbook for War and Peace with all of his 500+ characters sprawled out over 1,225pgs🤔
Besides that, a cute read I would recommend for anyone to pick up. It’s easy on the brain when you want to take a break in between your more emotionally taxing or thought provoking literature..or if you just want to curl up with a light read after a busy week with all the fuzzy, feel good vibes. All in all, I plan on reading her other installments in the Sunshine series with hopefully no more dog farts in the foreseeable future and to see how all these other characters interconnect from their different perspectives—I think that’ll be interesting.
A long time ago Darcy Jones Harper landed herself on the wrong side of the tracks in Sunshine Valley, she was the girl with a reputation. But these days it's a different story, she is no longer that girl, she is now a judge and respected member of the community.
She is also the woman that Jason Petrie wants back... but first he must find way back into her good graces, and if he has any say in it, her heart too. She is the one that he stupidly let get away, and now that he is back in town he plans to change that once and for all! Question is will she give him a second chance?
Dream a Little Dream is a small town romance brimming with charming characters and a story line that delights from beginning to end. Upon first meeting these two one time lovebirds it was evident that Jason had a tall order in front of him, working his way back into Darcy's heart was not going to be an easy task. Since the last time she gave him the chance to claim it he broke it, and left her behind. But now he is back in town and determined to show her that he has changed. But what he doesn't realize is that she has done some changing of her own too. She has morals, rules to live by, and an image to uphold and she can't be seem around town with the local bad boy. Good thing he has landed the help of the matchmaking Widows Club, cause he is going to need it! I loved returning to Sunshine Valley and seeing old friends and making a few new ones too. Just as my first visit, I was delighted by what I found waiting for me amongst the pages, the story line was unique and entertaining and the words were so easy to fall right into and let them take me away. What a wonderfully penned journey! If you love small town romances then I highly suggest you make a stop in Sunshine Valley, the characters you meet there are bound to make you feel right at home!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
After some mysteries and nonfiction, I knew needed to cleanse my reading palate and what better way to do it than with a light, clean, humorous romance by Melinda Curtis. It was a no-brainer to take a trip to Sunshine Valley where the board of the Widows Club is ready to decide on the couple they thought should be romantically linked and provide what they called “nudges.” The diverse group of friends are known for their meddling, and their antics and dialogue are the fun part of Dream a Little Dream.
Romance comes in the form of three-time world champion bull rider Jason whose friendship with Darcy goes way back and developed years ago into a romance. Darcy’s family has a history of falling on the wrong side of the law, but Darcy’s goal is to become a lawyer and leave her family’s reputation behind her as she moves out of town. Her long-time mentor Judge George Harper has other plans for Darcy, but when he dies, he leaves a mess of personal and professional issues for Darcy and his family to sort out. Meanwhile, Jason has been recuperating from a rodeo calamity and wants to restore his relationship with Darcy.
There are problems on all sides. Darcy doesn’t think she is capable of jumping into a judgeship and isn’t sure she can trust Jason. Jason needs to make decisions about what he really wants in the future and what his body can withstand. Both have loyal friends and some opposers in the town. Jason’s final effort to win Darcy comes down to the Widows Club Bachelor Auction for charity. I’m sure you can guess the outcome, but I enjoyed the journey. It was a fun and relaxing read, and I’m looking forward to my next visit to Sunshine Valley.
I would like to extend my thanks to NetGalley and to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an e-galley of Dream a Little Dream by Melinda Curtis from Forever Publishing in exchange for an honest review..
Dream a Little Dream is the third book in the Sunshine Valley series by Melinda Curtis. I was first introduced to this charming town of characters in the second book of the series, A Very Merry Match, and knew that I would want to return to the town of Sunshine. In this instalment of the romance series, we are acquainted with Darcy, the recently widowed judge’s wife who is still trying to live down her family’s name and reputation. Despite having worked hard to becoming a lawyer, it seems that no one will look past the name of Jones, and this has only worsened since she’d married her former mentor, the Honourable Judge George Harper. As George’s plan becomes to become evident in his passing - including recommending Darcy for his judgeship, Darcy is now dealing with having the town watching her with even closer eyes as her former boyfriend also stays in town with every intention of winning her back after their abrupt end.
There is a lot that is charming about Sunshine that makes readers, including this one, want to return to get acquainted with the cast. I think what’s so great about this series is that while you are still invested in the main characters and their progress of their relationship, Melinda Curtis keeps all the rest of the characters interesting and also gives them space and depth to carry out their own storylines. Which is why you know that you’d come back to Sunshine Valley, because once the new book is announced and you know who is up next for The Widows Club to nudge in the romance department, you are already familiar with the names and want to know how their story continues. All the while, you get a brief continuation from of all the previous characters and their stories. It sees that everyone is connected within a small town and community.
With all that said, I’ve really enjoyed Melinda Curtis’ writing now with what I have gotten a chance to read and I, like many other readers, will be eagerly awaiting who is up next for the Sunshine Valley series.
If you are a fan of small-town, second chance romance, this book is for you. Jason and Darcy have known each other since childhood and have been together nearly as long. That all changed when Darcy sees Jason, a bull-riding champion, kissing another girl on TV and decides to break it off with him and marry her long-time mentor, Judge George Harper. Little does she know that when Judge Harper passes away he names Darcy as his successor in all things. Darcy, who had grown up as a town outcast due to her parents, finds herself not only as the sole heir to Harper's home, fortune, dog, and judgeship but also quickly learns that Jason still loves her deeply and wants her back.
This is the third book in the Sunshine Valley series but can be read as a standalone. It is full of quirky and lovable characters that are fun to catch up with in each book. I liked that despite Darcy and Jason having somewhat troubled pasts they each overcome that in their own ways. They are well paired in supporting one another. I also found it unique that this book follows a couple already really in love from the beginning and explores the idea of whether being in love is enough or if there is more that must be overcome. The women of the widows matchmaking club bring that extra laughter to the book and Stogey, the dog, is a cute ball of a mess and yet such a great addition.
I've enjoyed reading Sunshine Valley. It's a little escape from the real world and I like the small town feel where all the characters know, and look out for, one another. I look forward to more books from this author in the future.
Thank you to Forever for an ARC of this book. The opinions here are my own.
Dreams a little Dream was a very touching book that Melinda showed how things can change a peoples lives when they follow there Dream. Darcy Jones was a troubled child because she did things that she was told to do by her parents. She was the girl on the wrong side of the track. Jason Petrie a boy who caused trouble in his teenage years and was on the wrong side of the track as well. Darcy and Jason where high school sweethearts planned to be together forever. Then after graduation they went to Vegas. Jason remembers they went to get married and Darcy didn't remember it. Well Darcy let Jason follow his Dream and she went and did what she wanted to with help from Judge Harper. Then she married Judge Harper and when he passed away things happened she didn't know about or liked. Darcy parents were in jail for things they did so she had no one to support her. Jason came back to Sunshine to get back the women he loved on the thought that they where married to find out what had happened to her. But she had know to support her but Jason and he always did support her and was always right beside her to support her through anything. He wanted his wife back and he went to the widows club for help. This was a very emotional story because of the things that happened to Darcy and Jason. They where two characters that where meant to be together. This was a very Fabulous book and Fantastically written that I could follow the book and not get lost. I could see myself inside the book following Darcy and Jason around. Melinda I loved is book if I could give you more starts than 5 I would give you more because I believe you deserve them.
Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the ARC to read and review.
Dream a Little Dream by Melinda Curtis.
First Time author read for me. Part of the Sunshine Valley series. I think I would have benefited in reading more of this series to see where these characters fit in the world. I wasn't sold on their relationship, but was intrigued by the heroine. DNF for me until I can follow the series.
From the Publisher: Widow Darcy Jones Harper finally has the chance to prove herself when she's appointed to replace her late husband as the town judge. But the last person she was expecting to see in her courtroom is the former rodeo star and Sunshine Valley bad boy. Even though she's always had a thing for his rugged charm, she's a new woman who's left her old desires -- and all the trouble that comes with them -- behind. Right?
Jason Petrie is determined to clean up his act and settle down. But no matter what he does, his past seems to follow him, landing him in the court of the only woman he ever wanted. Thankfully, the town's matchmaking Widow's Club is on the case and they plan to lend Jason a helping hand. With their help, can Jason convince Darcy that maybe they both deserve a second chance?Jason Petrie is determined to clean up his act and settle down. But no matter what he does, his past seems to follow him, landing him in the court of the only woman he ever wanted. Thankfully, the town's matchmaking Widow's Club is on the case and they plan to lend Jason a helping hand. With their help, can Jason convince Darcy that maybe they both deserve a second chance?
More of a 3.5 stars We are back in Sunshine Valley and the WIdows Club. A group of matchmaking ladies that whether it’s true or not, credit themselves for bringing together a few of the couples in town. In this third book in the series, the story belongs Darcy Jones Harper and Jason Petrie . These two have a long history but when things were looking up, a televised kiss with the wrong woman destroyed the relationship. After that , Darcy, who grew up on the wrong side of the track with parents that were less than stellar, accepts the marriage proposal of her much older mentor. A man well respected and the town’s judge. Few knew that it was mainly to help the man in his final hours. Now a widow, she is shocked when she is appointed the new judge in town. A town she feels doesn’t respect her. Nowadays, Jason, a three time world champion bull rider, is back home recovering , expanding his business but mostly trying to get back the woman he loves. Plus he has unexpected news for Darcy. If it’s true, how will this news affect their professional and personal future? I have to confess that whileI enjoyed the previous books in the series, this one just didn’t work for me. Though at times entertaining, it didn’t grasp my interest as the others did. For me, the plot was ok, and Jason was I character I enjoyed , but I never warmed up to Darcy. I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Dream a Little Dream is a very sweet, second chance romance! This is my first read by Melinda Curtis and I look forward to reading more. Her writing is wonderful and the book was well edited. This book is part of a series, however it can be read as a standalone. I do feel like reading the first two might give you more background knowledge on things, but it is not necessary.
Darcy is a newly appointed judge who has just taken over for her husband who has passed away. She married her late husband because he was her mentor and also after the news of his impending death, he asked her to do the favor of marrying him to help him out before his passing. However, because of her family’s criminal ways and history, she has to earn the respect of the town. They do not make it easy on her.
Jason and Darcy had a love for each other long ago, however Jason has never stopped wanting Darcy. Enter the Widows Club… they believe that even after death, all people should find love. Jason is completely on board with that and their journey is one that will make you smile. Dream a Little Dream is a sweet, second chance romance that will be sure to make your heart happy.
I received a copy of this book from Grand Central Publishing and Forever in exchange for an honest review.
Melinda Curtis is a new author for me but I am looking forward to reading more by her. This was a clean, inspirational romance about second chances. A second chance at romance and a second chance at life. Darcy is a previous con artist guilty of crimes from petty theft to cattle-rustling. She didn't set out to be that way - it was the family business. Jason is a world-class bull rider with a wild streak. Darcy and Jason met while in juvenile detention and were a long term item until Darcy saw Jason kiss another woman. So she up and married Judge Harper - a much older rich man who needed a companion. Judge Harper saw potential in Darcy and helped her pass the bar exam. Upon his death he requested she take his seat as acting judge. Darcy's guilt would not allow her to believe she deserved the position. Jason has learned the error of his ways, wants Darcy back and with the help of the Widow's Club puts his plan into action to win her back. Throw in Jason's not too bright partner Iggy and the adorable "tooting" bulldog, Stogey and you have a most enjoyable story. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever Publishing for this advanced review copy. In return, I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
This is the first Melinda Curtis book I’ve read, and I really love the mixture of characters she created. Darcy is not your typical female lead in a romance. She has a complicated family history, but this is not the primary characteristic of her, so it is discovered in bits and pieces throughout the story. The same is true for the history she and Jason share. I do wish that we got more background on the secondary characters, as I felt like I never got beyond surface level with them, but I do know that Curtis has written other novels that take place in this universe, so it’s possible they are fully fleshed out there and I just have some more reading to do. . Overall, the plot is cute, and not necessarily what I was expecting from a cowboy romance novel. In fact, I’m not really sure that I would qualify it as a “cowboy romance” because it involved so much more than the fact that one character is a bull rider. I loved the podcast element, and wish that we could have spent more time there. The primary story revolves around Darcy’s journey taking over as the new town judge, and I found her growth here relatable and grounded in reality. Also, the dog on the cover is a major player and I adore him!
This is a sweet small town romance and had an enjoyable set of quirky characters. The story is a second chance romance for the main characters. Jason is ready to win her back but Darcy is dealing with finding her spot as the town judge and can't factor the controversy of a relationship with him after the recent death of her husband. The Widow's Club, though, is going to do everything they can to get this couple back together.
On a whole it was a decent story, but there was something a little lacking in the story for me. I didn't swoon for Jason - he seemed a little one track with winning Darcy back. I also didn't really watch the characters fall in love which is a part of a romance. That might be because it was a second chance romance, so the relationship was already established, but I missed the journey of falling in love. Come the end I didn't really care if they ended up together or not. It is a nice story - The Widows were a hoot and Stogey the dog was adorable - but I felt like something was missing This is the third book in the series and the first one that I've read by the author. This book, though, doesn't really have me reaching for the others that I missed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.