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McAllister Friends #1
Dream Lover
John and Liz have been best friends for years. Liz is content for things to stay just the way they are. But John's feelings for Liz begin to grow beyond a platonic friendship.
Can he convince Liz to open her eyes and her heart to the beauty of what could be?
Can he convince Liz to open her eyes and her heart to the beauty of what could be?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2012
86 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 5, 2020
I love Best Friends to Lovers story and this was really good!
John met his best friend Liz when he saw her struggling to carry the things in her hand, he offered to help her, learned that she was moving into the building across the street from him. After John helped Liz with her stuff and properly introducing themselves to the other before you know it they became the best of friends.
John was left at the altar, so he he threw himself into opening his restaurant that he always wanted to do, now three restaurants later he is doing great. Liz is an artist, painter and sculptor, working to have her own art show one day. They both encourage one another and they each other's cheerleaders, neither have time to date, so John being the chef, finds Liz at his home eating one of his creations or he is at her house, cooking for her. These two are so comfortable with each other so why haven't they gotten together then?
John and Liz, don't look at each other in that way but unbeknownst to them there is a storm brewing just below the surface but what is going to happen for it to tip over?
But there is something coming up from one of their past and what will happen once they are confronted with it?
John and Liz have great chemistry together in this story, and I loved reading about how their friendship started and because it was totally relatable. I love author Te Russ writing, she crafts such beautiful love stories.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
John met his best friend Liz when he saw her struggling to carry the things in her hand, he offered to help her, learned that she was moving into the building across the street from him. After John helped Liz with her stuff and properly introducing themselves to the other before you know it they became the best of friends.
John was left at the altar, so he he threw himself into opening his restaurant that he always wanted to do, now three restaurants later he is doing great. Liz is an artist, painter and sculptor, working to have her own art show one day. They both encourage one another and they each other's cheerleaders, neither have time to date, so John being the chef, finds Liz at his home eating one of his creations or he is at her house, cooking for her. These two are so comfortable with each other so why haven't they gotten together then?
John and Liz, don't look at each other in that way but unbeknownst to them there is a storm brewing just below the surface but what is going to happen for it to tip over?
But there is something coming up from one of their past and what will happen once they are confronted with it?
John and Liz have great chemistry together in this story, and I loved reading about how their friendship started and because it was totally relatable. I love author Te Russ writing, she crafts such beautiful love stories.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao!
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May 13, 2015Genre: CR, debut novel.
I can't resist the best friends trope but this was too bland. Also, I couldnt get much sense of what the H and h were like other than H was a chef who was still hung up on his ex-fiancee FIVE years later and h was an artist.
DNF @ 25%
I can't resist the best friends trope but this was too bland. Also, I couldnt get much sense of what the H and h were like other than H was a chef who was still hung up on his ex-fiancee FIVE years later and h was an artist.
DNF @ 25%
June 1, 2022
This book was absolutely incredible that I could not put it down. From the storyline to the characters, it will keep you intrigued from beginning to end. I love the way this author makes me feel as though I'm in the story.
February 10, 2013
Great Love Story
“Dream Lover” by Te Russ is the story of two really good friends - Liz, the artist, and John, the chef. They shared a friendship that lasted five years. They were very happy keeping it that way, until one day one of them felt something totally different for the other.
I really liked “Dream Lover.” It grabbed me from the very first page and held my interest. The story itself was written well and easy to follow. However, there were a few missing words. Overall I really enjoyed it.
If you're looking for a good, quick read, I recommend this book. I would love to read more from this author.
Reviewed by: Yolanda
4.5 stars
“Dream Lover” by Te Russ is the story of two really good friends - Liz, the artist, and John, the chef. They shared a friendship that lasted five years. They were very happy keeping it that way, until one day one of them felt something totally different for the other.
I really liked “Dream Lover.” It grabbed me from the very first page and held my interest. The story itself was written well and easy to follow. However, there were a few missing words. Overall I really enjoyed it.
If you're looking for a good, quick read, I recommend this book. I would love to read more from this author.
Reviewed by: Yolanda
4.5 stars
April 3, 2013
A great love story!!!
July 12, 2013
An amazing read. You can get comfortably lost in the book and wish for more to read afterwards. Loved it!
September 3, 2014
A very refreshing read. The story of best friends for 5 years who realize that they are in love.
March 1, 2015
Short and sweet but largely unimpressive. One of those what-to-read-to-kill-time stories.
Want to read
December 2, 2019 🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/2/2019)! 🎁
February 3, 2020
This was a very sweet friends to lovers story. I loved the kind of friendship John and Liz had. Liz seemed to be very resistant to cross the line with John out of fear, but eventually came to her senses! Whew, child! Thank you! We all know that for the most part, best friends make the best lovers.
I've had the pleasure of discovering Ms. Russ's Noble Family Series and Wild Knight Series first before even touching her debut novel. It seems that no matter how much I'd rather read things in order, I tend to move backwards when discovering new writers. But in this case, I'm glad I did because this book doesn't even come close to showcasing the amazing talent that Ms. Russ has! I caught a few grammatical errors, and the writing felt a bit choppy, but I'm so glad this writer continued to publish more books because she has grown to be a such a beautiful writer.
I've had the pleasure of discovering Ms. Russ's Noble Family Series and Wild Knight Series first before even touching her debut novel. It seems that no matter how much I'd rather read things in order, I tend to move backwards when discovering new writers. But in this case, I'm glad I did because this book doesn't even come close to showcasing the amazing talent that Ms. Russ has! I caught a few grammatical errors, and the writing felt a bit choppy, but I'm so glad this writer continued to publish more books because she has grown to be a such a beautiful writer.
September 17, 2018
Love right in front of the eye
I do not how I missed this debut novel, but it makes sense as to current stories I've read by Te' . I always appreciate friends to lovers stories. Liz and John had the connection between the two that made you believe it. They foundation of their friendship allowed for their relationship to blossom naturally. It also lead to reasoning that HAE would be in their future.
Big ups to Neil for coming into Liz's life and helping her mend from her father's wounds. Domestic violence is a serious matter.
I do not how I missed this debut novel, but it makes sense as to current stories I've read by Te' . I always appreciate friends to lovers stories. Liz and John had the connection between the two that made you believe it. They foundation of their friendship allowed for their relationship to blossom naturally. It also lead to reasoning that HAE would be in their future.
Big ups to Neil for coming into Liz's life and helping her mend from her father's wounds. Domestic violence is a serious matter.
October 14, 2017
Perfect foundation
It is amazing when you realize all that you have been wanting and dreaming about was right under your nose. John and Liz had the perfect foundation for a relationship by being best friends first. Even though Liz was hesitant to make the transition to lovers, she quickly learned to appreciate and value their new relationship.
It is amazing when you realize all that you have been wanting and dreaming about was right under your nose. John and Liz had the perfect foundation for a relationship by being best friends first. Even though Liz was hesitant to make the transition to lovers, she quickly learned to appreciate and value their new relationship.
September 2, 2019
Slow start
This was a slow read for me. I anticipating there being more information regarding the introduction of Liz’s father but there wasn’t. I’m not really sure why he even showed up at her house to be unheard from again. I feel as though it would have made the story a little more interesting.
This was a slow read for me. I anticipating there being more information regarding the introduction of Liz’s father but there wasn’t. I’m not really sure why he even showed up at her house to be unheard from again. I feel as though it would have made the story a little more interesting.
July 9, 2020
I just found out about this author from a recommendation. Instead of starting from her most recent works, I decided to start at the beginning. This is a good first novel. It is obvious that the author is a talented writer. The storyline was cute and there no major flaws, but it read like it was following a formula. I am looking forward to seeing what this author brings in the many books to come.
August 14, 2019
I love the way this author weaves all of her characters together. I'm literally binge reading all of her work to find out exactly how everything came to be. If you can get past minor typos then you'll absolutely love Te' Russ' work!
November 29, 2019
😍😍😍😍
Loved they friendship turn lover's then husband and wife. Susan who, that bitch was money hungry she had a good man, realizes too late. Liz's father was a damn bully, John should've kicked his butt love this book 🔥🔥🔥
Loved they friendship turn lover's then husband and wife. Susan who, that bitch was money hungry she had a good man, realizes too late. Liz's father was a damn bully, John should've kicked his butt love this book 🔥🔥🔥
June 9, 2020
Dream Lover (The McAllister Friends Book 1)
This is Jonathon Parker and Elizabeth (Lizzie) Wheeler at their best being friends first. Becoming lovers after 5 yrs of a friends-only relationship. Now husband & wife legally. Good story.
This is Jonathon Parker and Elizabeth (Lizzie) Wheeler at their best being friends first. Becoming lovers after 5 yrs of a friends-only relationship. Now husband & wife legally. Good story.
May 31, 2022
Loved It!
This one is one of my favorites from the beginning to the end I enjoyed it! I hope to see updates about them in future readings although I think I’ve heard them mentioned in another series written by Té Russ… Great read for me!
This one is one of my favorites from the beginning to the end I enjoyed it! I hope to see updates about them in future readings although I think I’ve heard them mentioned in another series written by Té Russ… Great read for me!
October 8, 2023
Aww
This was such a sweet story. To be in love with your best friend and not realize it until five years later. Love is the best emotion a human being can experience. I'm happy that Lizzie didn't let her Father's treachery determine her outlook on love.
This was such a sweet story. To be in love with your best friend and not realize it until five years later. Love is the best emotion a human being can experience. I'm happy that Lizzie didn't let her Father's treachery determine her outlook on love.
October 27, 2017
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. John and Liz were made for each other. I recommend this book.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. John and Liz were made for each other. I recommend this book.
May 3, 2019
Dream...
I enjoyed reading this book. Refreshing to read how the McAllister friends got with their spouses. Love the McAllister family.
I enjoyed reading this book. Refreshing to read how the McAllister friends got with their spouses. Love the McAllister family.
April 4, 2020
Loved it!
By far one of the best love stories I've read. I loved how they let love lead and followed with their hearts. John is the consummate friend and husband.
By far one of the best love stories I've read. I loved how they let love lead and followed with their hearts. John is the consummate friend and husband.
October 23, 2020
Dream lover
Another great McAllister love story, many couples think that friends that turns to lover don't have longevity together. I think differently.
Another great McAllister love story, many couples think that friends that turns to lover don't have longevity together. I think differently.
April 5, 2021
Yes that was a great story, Elizabeth and Johnathon were the perfect couple. The way you wrote the wad way different from what I’ve been reading, fresh idea and very cute. Thank you Te’.
November 9, 2024
A must read!!
This short story was a great read!! It will keep you intrigued the whole time. Love wins!! You will not be disappointed.
This short story was a great read!! It will keep you intrigued the whole time. Love wins!! You will not be disappointed.
October 10, 2020
Cute but felt hollow
This was my first time reading anything by Te Russ. I decided to start with her first novel.
I gave it three stars because I never like to give less than that unless the book is awful. This book/story wasn't awful - it was just very superficial, for lack of a better word. The entire story was a lot of telling not showing. There was never a description of John or Liz - or anyone else for that matter. I couldn't get a picture of how anyone looked. And they definitely didn't seem to be black characters. None of their dialogue or behavior said they were black, or even people of color. I suppose that's fine, but it's not what I thought I was getting. This story read more like a short story you turn in to your high school teacher.
Either way, I'm moving forward with the next book in this series. Ms. Russ has writing talent, and I suspect that, with forty books/novellas now under her belt, that she's gotten much better.
This was my first time reading anything by Te Russ. I decided to start with her first novel.
I gave it three stars because I never like to give less than that unless the book is awful. This book/story wasn't awful - it was just very superficial, for lack of a better word. The entire story was a lot of telling not showing. There was never a description of John or Liz - or anyone else for that matter. I couldn't get a picture of how anyone looked. And they definitely didn't seem to be black characters. None of their dialogue or behavior said they were black, or even people of color. I suppose that's fine, but it's not what I thought I was getting. This story read more like a short story you turn in to your high school teacher.
Either way, I'm moving forward with the next book in this series. Ms. Russ has writing talent, and I suspect that, with forty books/novellas now under her belt, that she's gotten much better.
April 30, 2016
This is the first book from this author that I have read and I was pleasantly surprised. Dream Lover was well written and thought out for the most part. The hero and heroine were relatable and the secondary characters were well written. Most of the lovemaking takes place off the page. A few things distracted or disrupted my reading a bit. The character voice changed from hero to heroine without a clear break at times so I had to reread the previous paragraph. There was one character that was introduced that I feel that their presence was not resolved but I’m guessing that it may be addressed in one of the related books. But overall I was impressed by this author’s first work On my personal scale I would give this book 4 purple roses.
My book review rubric:
Character Development: Fully believable characters, Likeable
Secondary Characters: Likeable secondary characters that added to the story
Character Chemistry: Good
Plot: Believable
Did the story make me laugh or cry?: Moments of laughter
Typos: No typos remembered (Did not get in the way of the story)
Story pacing: Excellent pacing
Sex scenes: Most love scenes take place off page
Story ending: Leaves room for a sequel or related books
Was the story predictable? If so in what way?: No
Did the story keep my interest?: Yes
Would I read this story again? Yes
Would I read more of this author's work? Yes
Would I recommend this book? If yes to who?: Yes. This book is a must read for romantics at heart
Part of a series: First book in the The McAllister Friends series
Connected book: Taking Chances, Always You, (The McAllister Family Series) After the Storm, Just One Kiss, Perfection, Love After War, Just One Knight, Just One Touch
Genre: Romance
Tags: AA
My book review rubric:
Character Development: Fully believable characters, Likeable
Secondary Characters: Likeable secondary characters that added to the story
Character Chemistry: Good
Plot: Believable
Did the story make me laugh or cry?: Moments of laughter
Typos: No typos remembered (Did not get in the way of the story)
Story pacing: Excellent pacing
Sex scenes: Most love scenes take place off page
Story ending: Leaves room for a sequel or related books
Was the story predictable? If so in what way?: No
Did the story keep my interest?: Yes
Would I read this story again? Yes
Would I read more of this author's work? Yes
Would I recommend this book? If yes to who?: Yes. This book is a must read for romantics at heart
Part of a series: First book in the The McAllister Friends series
Connected book: Taking Chances, Always You, (The McAllister Family Series) After the Storm, Just One Kiss, Perfection, Love After War, Just One Knight, Just One Touch
Genre: Romance
Tags: AA
July 31, 2015
Great Debut novel
This was a great debut novel! They only get better from here. As a reader I am always intrigued but the friends to lovers storyline and this one does not disappoint... The story was great and this couple will have you rooting for them from the start. There were times where I really wanted to just strangle Liz for running from her true feelings but I also think that's what made the story flow so much better because John didn't have the easiest journey to winning her love.
This was a great debut novel! They only get better from here. As a reader I am always intrigued but the friends to lovers storyline and this one does not disappoint... The story was great and this couple will have you rooting for them from the start. There were times where I really wanted to just strangle Liz for running from her true feelings but I also think that's what made the story flow so much better because John didn't have the easiest journey to winning her love.
September 24, 2014
APB Perspective reviews 3.5 stars : I thought the story of John and Liz is a cute, they really belong together , best friends who become lovers are the best stories. This story was good two people who went after their dreams and along the way their dreams became each other. I felt John cook his way into Liz's heart,he was the man that she has be waiting for all of her life. Good story I do wonder what happens to Randi.
January 10, 2015
Dream Lover
This was a great romance; I love that John and Liz were friends first and the way the author allowed the characters time to adjust to their relationship beyond friendship. It was truly beautiful and the intimate scenes where very tasteful and not the main focus of the story.
This was a great romance; I love that John and Liz were friends first and the way the author allowed the characters time to adjust to their relationship beyond friendship. It was truly beautiful and the intimate scenes where very tasteful and not the main focus of the story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews