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Burning Cove #6
When She Dreams
"Return to 1930s Burning Cove, California, the glamorous seaside playground for Hollywood stars, mobsters, spies, and a host of others who find more than they bargain for in this mysterious town.
Maggie Lodge, assistant to the reclusive advice columnist known only as Dear Aunt Cornelia to her readers, hires down-but-not-quite-out private eye Sam Sage to help track down the person who is blackmailing her employer. Maggie and Sam are a mismatched pair. As far as Sam is concerned, Maggie is reckless and in over her head. She is not what he had in mind for a client, but he can't afford to be choosy. Maggie, on the other hand, is convinced that Sam is badly in need of guidance and good advice. She does not hesitate to give him both. In spite of the verbal fireworks between them, they are fiercely attracted to each other, but each is convinced it would be a mistake to let passion take over. They are, after all, keeping secrets from each other.
Sam is haunted by his past, which includes a marriage shattered by betrayal and violence. Maggie is troubled by intense and vivid dreams-dreams that she can sometimes control. There are those who want to run experiments on her and use her for their own purposes, while others think she should be committed to an asylum.
When the pair discovers someone is impersonating Aunt Cornelia at a conference on psychic dreaming and a woman dies at the conference, the door is opened to a dangerous web of blackmail and murder. Secrets from the past are revealed, leaving Maggie and Sam in the path of a ruthless killer who will stop at nothing to exact vengeance"--
Maggie Lodge, assistant to the reclusive advice columnist known only as Dear Aunt Cornelia to her readers, hires down-but-not-quite-out private eye Sam Sage to help track down the person who is blackmailing her employer. Maggie and Sam are a mismatched pair. As far as Sam is concerned, Maggie is reckless and in over her head. She is not what he had in mind for a client, but he can't afford to be choosy. Maggie, on the other hand, is convinced that Sam is badly in need of guidance and good advice. She does not hesitate to give him both. In spite of the verbal fireworks between them, they are fiercely attracted to each other, but each is convinced it would be a mistake to let passion take over. They are, after all, keeping secrets from each other.
Sam is haunted by his past, which includes a marriage shattered by betrayal and violence. Maggie is troubled by intense and vivid dreams-dreams that she can sometimes control. There are those who want to run experiments on her and use her for their own purposes, while others think she should be committed to an asylum.
When the pair discovers someone is impersonating Aunt Cornelia at a conference on psychic dreaming and a woman dies at the conference, the door is opened to a dangerous web of blackmail and murder. Secrets from the past are revealed, leaving Maggie and Sam in the path of a ruthless killer who will stop at nothing to exact vengeance"--
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2022
599 people are currently reading
1788 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Quick
94 books5,504 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews
June 16, 2022
I think I've overstayed my welcome in Burning Cove.
While I enjoyed the 30s thriller vibes of the earlier books, they've only gotten sillier and worse as the series dragged on. There's some wishy washy paranormal aspects now - which I would otherwise appreciate, but Quick hasn't committed to the bit from the start, resulting in the more paranormal last couple of books reading like a different series. The plots, characters and dialogue all feel cookie cutter now. I've felt zero chemistry in the past few books, the romances completely flat. The one couple I've enjoyed getting glimpses of, Luthor and Raina, have gone 6 books without their own story. Meh.
Onward to better things on my shelf.
While I enjoyed the 30s thriller vibes of the earlier books, they've only gotten sillier and worse as the series dragged on. There's some wishy washy paranormal aspects now - which I would otherwise appreciate, but Quick hasn't committed to the bit from the start, resulting in the more paranormal last couple of books reading like a different series. The plots, characters and dialogue all feel cookie cutter now. I've felt zero chemistry in the past few books, the romances completely flat. The one couple I've enjoyed getting glimpses of, Luthor and Raina, have gone 6 books without their own story. Meh.
Onward to better things on my shelf.
June 6, 2022
Another great romantic mystery by Amanda Quick ( Jayne Ann Krentz) !
When Maggie Lodge's employer receives a blackmail letter she hooks up with detective Sam Sage to flush out the Traveler a psychic assassin who is said to be able to kill his victims in dreams. Maggie and Sam have a push pull chemistry but you can see their was a attraction from the start even though Maggie is attracted to Sam she wants to keep him at arm's length so he doesn't find out that she is a strong dream talent but from the first kiss both go up in flames and theirs no turning back. With twists and turns and a line up of would be killers like dream analyst Dr Emerson Oxlade who's obsession with Maggie is quite creepy to Arthur Guilfoyle and his wife Dolores who have a generator that can that can induce a state of lucid dreaming and the mysterious Traveler this dual will have to be on their toes or become another victim in this game of whodunit! Jayne Ann Krentz is a awesome storyteller and the Burning Cove series has been a favorite of mine. This can be read as a stand lone but the whole series is awesome. Until next time Luv's💞💋
When Maggie Lodge's employer receives a blackmail letter she hooks up with detective Sam Sage to flush out the Traveler a psychic assassin who is said to be able to kill his victims in dreams. Maggie and Sam have a push pull chemistry but you can see their was a attraction from the start even though Maggie is attracted to Sam she wants to keep him at arm's length so he doesn't find out that she is a strong dream talent but from the first kiss both go up in flames and theirs no turning back. With twists and turns and a line up of would be killers like dream analyst Dr Emerson Oxlade who's obsession with Maggie is quite creepy to Arthur Guilfoyle and his wife Dolores who have a generator that can that can induce a state of lucid dreaming and the mysterious Traveler this dual will have to be on their toes or become another victim in this game of whodunit! Jayne Ann Krentz is a awesome storyteller and the Burning Cove series has been a favorite of mine. This can be read as a stand lone but the whole series is awesome. Until next time Luv's💞💋
May 11, 2022
I know this author uses the paranormal pretty heavily in other series, but Burning Cove was always a bit different. Until this book. This one is heavy on the paranormal and it seemed like an odd story in the series as a result.
Maggie hires Sam to investigate who is blackmailing her in the setting of a conference about lucid dreaming. We don’t see much chemistry or even affection between the two. They come together, as character in this series do, but it’s abrupt and somewhat awkward. Their dialogue felt rushed and short instead of witty or playful.
They go on to solve the blackmail case, some murders that happened at the conference, and an older murder in about 72 hours total. Whew!
The fun of Burning Cove is that the characters in each book have their own story, but are linked to characters from previous installments. The connection is weak in this one.
I think my time with Burning Cove is over.
Maggie hires Sam to investigate who is blackmailing her in the setting of a conference about lucid dreaming. We don’t see much chemistry or even affection between the two. They come together, as character in this series do, but it’s abrupt and somewhat awkward. Their dialogue felt rushed and short instead of witty or playful.
They go on to solve the blackmail case, some murders that happened at the conference, and an older murder in about 72 hours total. Whew!
The fun of Burning Cove is that the characters in each book have their own story, but are linked to characters from previous installments. The connection is weak in this one.
I think my time with Burning Cove is over.
July 13, 2022
How can a reader ever go wrong with Amanda Quick? (Answer: Never.) WHEN SHE DREAMS is part of her cozy historical romantic suspense Burning Cove series, but don’t worry about reading the books in order. Great story telling!
May 9, 2022
Maggie Lodge hires Sam Sage, a private detective to help to find the person trying to blackmail her employer, the woman behind the Aunt Cornelia advice column. Their quest takes them to the glamorous town of Burning Cove, the hot getaway destination of the rich and famous and where Maggie runs into a dangerous man from her past. Sam and Maggie may butt heads a few times at the start of their investigation, but they quickly come to respect each other’s strengths and talents as they get to know each other, and an attraction builds between them.
As with the previous stories, there’s a bit of a paranormal element. Lucid dreaming for Maggie and Sam with his uncanny intuition.
The Burning Cove mysteries are delightfully entertaining! The 1930s time period is vividly portrayed: art deco, dressing up for dinner, dancing and cocktails, and old Hollywood glamour. Danger, thrills, and romance made for a fast addictive story, easy to fly right through. When She Dreams is book six in the series, but each book can be read as a standalone with a unique mystery and romance.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
As with the previous stories, there’s a bit of a paranormal element. Lucid dreaming for Maggie and Sam with his uncanny intuition.
The Burning Cove mysteries are delightfully entertaining! The 1930s time period is vividly portrayed: art deco, dressing up for dinner, dancing and cocktails, and old Hollywood glamour. Danger, thrills, and romance made for a fast addictive story, easy to fly right through. When She Dreams is book six in the series, but each book can be read as a standalone with a unique mystery and romance.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2022
A dream of a book.
Another great addition to the Burning Cove series. Such a fascinating story about something I knew nothing about, lucid dreaming. The thirties are such an interesting time.
Another great addition to the Burning Cove series. Such a fascinating story about something I knew nothing about, lucid dreaming. The thirties are such an interesting time.
May 7, 2022
Another enjoyable visit to Burning Cove.
I really liked our forceful, no-nonsense heroine Maggie Lodge and our more laid-back (almost beta) hero Sam Sage. There's blackmail, a murder or two, and some shady characters. There's a whiff of the para-normal. There is even an advice columnist, Aunt Cornelia, who wanders through the plot.
All in all, a typical Amanda Quick offering. A fun way to pass a few hours.
I really liked our forceful, no-nonsense heroine Maggie Lodge and our more laid-back (almost beta) hero Sam Sage. There's blackmail, a murder or two, and some shady characters. There's a whiff of the para-normal. There is even an advice columnist, Aunt Cornelia, who wanders through the plot.
All in all, a typical Amanda Quick offering. A fun way to pass a few hours.
April 16, 2022
When She Dreams
by Amanda Quick
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Pub Date: May 3
Sixth in the Burning Cove series, Amanda Quick's newest is a crazy ride. Protagonist Maggie Lodge is a lucid dreamer who hires PI Sam Sage to help her track down the person blackmailing her employer, an advice columnist called Dear Aunt Cornelia. Loved the 1930s Hollywood setting, the slow burn romance, the quirky characters and story, and that glorious cover. Highly recommended!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#When She Dreams
#Amanda Quick
#berkleypublishinggroup
#NetGalley
#historicalfictionnovel
#romanticfictionnovel
#bookstagramcommunity
by Amanda Quick
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley
Pub Date: May 3
Sixth in the Burning Cove series, Amanda Quick's newest is a crazy ride. Protagonist Maggie Lodge is a lucid dreamer who hires PI Sam Sage to help her track down the person blackmailing her employer, an advice columnist called Dear Aunt Cornelia. Loved the 1930s Hollywood setting, the slow burn romance, the quirky characters and story, and that glorious cover. Highly recommended!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
#When She Dreams
#Amanda Quick
#berkleypublishinggroup
#NetGalley
#historicalfictionnovel
#romanticfictionnovel
#bookstagramcommunity
May 13, 2022
This is #6 in a series. I did not read #1 or #2. I read #3 and #4 - didn’t much like them. I did like #5.
Just figured out the name of the series “Burning Cove” is exactly right since the books are indeed about the location rather than the characters…which is why all Burning Cove books can be read as stand-alone.
In this edition the story does not begin in Burning Cove. We meet Maggie Lodge somewhere in LA who engages ex-cop private investigator Sam Sage to find the person who is blackmailing her employer. The action takes them to Burning Cove to attend some kind of ‘lucid dreaming’ program.
The whole ‘lucid dreaming’ thing left me cold – maybe because I don’t understand it and have no interest in it.
Maggie and Sam are ok characters and there is a murder mystery and a love story (of course).
The very excellent characters from book #5 make only a brief appearance.
At least the book is an easy read and good enough to pass the time and keep you reading to the end.
Just figured out the name of the series “Burning Cove” is exactly right since the books are indeed about the location rather than the characters…which is why all Burning Cove books can be read as stand-alone.
In this edition the story does not begin in Burning Cove. We meet Maggie Lodge somewhere in LA who engages ex-cop private investigator Sam Sage to find the person who is blackmailing her employer. The action takes them to Burning Cove to attend some kind of ‘lucid dreaming’ program.
The whole ‘lucid dreaming’ thing left me cold – maybe because I don’t understand it and have no interest in it.
Maggie and Sam are ok characters and there is a murder mystery and a love story (of course).
The very excellent characters from book #5 make only a brief appearance.
At least the book is an easy read and good enough to pass the time and keep you reading to the end.
June 3, 2022
The glamorous and nostalgic Old Hollywood feel of the Burning Cove series continues with this latest that delves into the disturbing world of dark dreams and nightmares that are anything but normal. Starting out with a case of blackmail and ending up to include murder, I was excited to dive into the world of the series laid out by Amanda Quick.
When She Dreams is the fifth standalone romantic suspense set in historic 1930’s Southern California. I’ve had no trouble reading this series out of order (and by that I mean starting with book three and then getting the first two after book four), but I did like knowing the background of the other characters who pop up as secondary characters around Burning Cove.
Starting out in another town, the book opens when the secretary of a popular advice columnist, Maggie Lodge, hires ex-cop private detective, Sam Sage, to track down a would-be blackmailer who has threatened to bring up an old murder if demands aren’t met. Maggie is supposed to meet the person at a conference held for those interested in psychic dreaming at a new retreat in Burning Cove. Sam agrees to go with her.
Sam thinks the psychic dream stuff is all a bunch of hooey, but a fresh corpse is very much solid fact and he suspects that Maggie is in more danger than ever. A weirdo scientist covets her as a study subject and someone else just wants the pair of them gone especially since they make a good detecting team when they’re not bantering and trying to ignore what lies behind their sizzling remarks.
When She Dreams, like the other books in the series has the psychic element and this time its dreams. This didn’t do much for me, but I loved the suspense element, the glamorous setting, details, and engaging characters. The author gives a lot of effort into the dialogue, activities, and dress. I chuckled as the pair reminded me of a Bogart and Bacall movie even while bashing The Maltese Falcon’s Sam Spade for taking a mickey finn from the bad guy. I really enjoyed this pair and thought they had fabulous connection even from the first moment. I was tickled to get more time with Luther and Rayna though the other regulars were only mentioned in passing.
The book read quickly, pulling me into the world and I left it reluctantly. For those who love their mysteries with an old-style hard-boiled detective, a sassy heroine, and a spectacular historical backdrop, look no further.
I rec'd an eARC through NetGalley from Berkley Romance to read in exchange for my honest review.
When She Dreams is the fifth standalone romantic suspense set in historic 1930’s Southern California. I’ve had no trouble reading this series out of order (and by that I mean starting with book three and then getting the first two after book four), but I did like knowing the background of the other characters who pop up as secondary characters around Burning Cove.
Starting out in another town, the book opens when the secretary of a popular advice columnist, Maggie Lodge, hires ex-cop private detective, Sam Sage, to track down a would-be blackmailer who has threatened to bring up an old murder if demands aren’t met. Maggie is supposed to meet the person at a conference held for those interested in psychic dreaming at a new retreat in Burning Cove. Sam agrees to go with her.
Sam thinks the psychic dream stuff is all a bunch of hooey, but a fresh corpse is very much solid fact and he suspects that Maggie is in more danger than ever. A weirdo scientist covets her as a study subject and someone else just wants the pair of them gone especially since they make a good detecting team when they’re not bantering and trying to ignore what lies behind their sizzling remarks.
When She Dreams, like the other books in the series has the psychic element and this time its dreams. This didn’t do much for me, but I loved the suspense element, the glamorous setting, details, and engaging characters. The author gives a lot of effort into the dialogue, activities, and dress. I chuckled as the pair reminded me of a Bogart and Bacall movie even while bashing The Maltese Falcon’s Sam Spade for taking a mickey finn from the bad guy. I really enjoyed this pair and thought they had fabulous connection even from the first moment. I was tickled to get more time with Luther and Rayna though the other regulars were only mentioned in passing.
The book read quickly, pulling me into the world and I left it reluctantly. For those who love their mysteries with an old-style hard-boiled detective, a sassy heroine, and a spectacular historical backdrop, look no further.
I rec'd an eARC through NetGalley from Berkley Romance to read in exchange for my honest review.
May 3, 2022
4.5 stars
This book is set in Burning Cove, California in the 1930s but is not one of the author’s numbered books in the series. Like the love interest between the protagonists, the story starts slow, then builds quickly to a crescendo. Sam Sage is a former LA Police Detective who has set up his own private detective agency and is dreading doing “Divorce work” when he gets an unexpected client-a woman who is trying to find a blackmailer.
Maggie Lodge is a lucid dreamer -someone who feels dreams so strongly she often wakes up in the middle of a nightmare-and who has worked hard to control her dreams. She has also avoided marriage because people have tried to use her talents against her. Maggie is writing a book, but is also subbing for a newspaper columnist, who is being blackmailed. Determined to find and eliminate the threat, she hires Sam.
While the attraction between the two is strong, so is the antagonism. As they unravel the mystery surrounding a series of murders, and the trust between them grows, the attraction takes over. But danger lurks around every corner for both of them-can Sam keep the safe as they find their way into a relationship.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
This book is set in Burning Cove, California in the 1930s but is not one of the author’s numbered books in the series. Like the love interest between the protagonists, the story starts slow, then builds quickly to a crescendo. Sam Sage is a former LA Police Detective who has set up his own private detective agency and is dreading doing “Divorce work” when he gets an unexpected client-a woman who is trying to find a blackmailer.
Maggie Lodge is a lucid dreamer -someone who feels dreams so strongly she often wakes up in the middle of a nightmare-and who has worked hard to control her dreams. She has also avoided marriage because people have tried to use her talents against her. Maggie is writing a book, but is also subbing for a newspaper columnist, who is being blackmailed. Determined to find and eliminate the threat, she hires Sam.
While the attraction between the two is strong, so is the antagonism. As they unravel the mystery surrounding a series of murders, and the trust between them grows, the attraction takes over. But danger lurks around every corner for both of them-can Sam keep the safe as they find their way into a relationship.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 6, 2022
Dreams and nightmares plague Maggie Lodge. Maggie assists Aunt Cordelia in her nationally syndicated advice column while writing a novel. Aunt Cordelia left on an unexpected trip, and Maggie is housesitting and penning the column for her when she receives a blackmail letter for Aunt Cordelia. Hiring local private investigator, Sam Sage, Maggie and Sam end up in Burning Cove, California, to meet the blackmailer and to confront a woman impersonating Aunt Cordelia. At the conference for lucid dreamers to access latent psychic talents, the pair encounter murder, fraud, a doctor who believes that he is a talented dream analyst, the legend of a Traveler on astral projections that murders, and an attraction for each other.
What poppycock! The series, which I found charming at the beginning, unfortunately has degenerated more into the paranormal becoming more silly and unbelievable. While I enjoy visiting this charming seaside town in the 1930's with some recurring characters, I keep waiting for one couple who are featured in this book to have their own story. It would be natural to write their tale by now instead of constantly introducing new couples, whose romance and tale fall flat. I think it is about time to put a kibosh on this series. 2.5 stars.
What poppycock! The series, which I found charming at the beginning, unfortunately has degenerated more into the paranormal becoming more silly and unbelievable. While I enjoy visiting this charming seaside town in the 1930's with some recurring characters, I keep waiting for one couple who are featured in this book to have their own story. It would be natural to write their tale by now instead of constantly introducing new couples, whose romance and tale fall flat. I think it is about time to put a kibosh on this series. 2.5 stars.
May 6, 2022
There is that "pink lady" reference! It is a romantic murder mystery series with very entertaining dialogue between the main characters. Great mystery. I really like the series.
May 15, 2022
When She Dreams is the 6th book in the Burning Cove historical cozy mystery series set in the 1930’s on the California coast. This series is filled with mobsters, starlets, glitz, glamour, back room deals and prohibition, events and issues of the day, and all kinds of wild and mischievous shenanigans.
This particular story features the topic of lucid dreams, dream-walking, and astral projection. As with all the other mysteries, there is a paranormal element and a cozy-style murder that needs to be solved. We also have brand new main characters in each new story, with a nod to a few characters from earlier novels.
I’ve always been a fan of this series with its rich and vibrant atmosphere and interesting historical elements, however I do find that it’s getting sillier and more bizarre as the series continues. This particular story’s premise, though a popular topic and fad at the time, felt a bit ridiculous. The policing elements felt rather far-fetched and the way the characters spoke to one another felt overly matter-of-fact and unrealistic. I do appreciate the main female character’s feminist stance, and definitely agree with, and understand her views, but she was obstinately staunch, almost militant in her opinions. Finally, there were a few quite steamy scenes that I could have done without in a book focused on a cozy mystery.
So while it’s been a fun series to read, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed several of the books, I’m not absolutely sure I’ll be continuing.
This particular story features the topic of lucid dreams, dream-walking, and astral projection. As with all the other mysteries, there is a paranormal element and a cozy-style murder that needs to be solved. We also have brand new main characters in each new story, with a nod to a few characters from earlier novels.
I’ve always been a fan of this series with its rich and vibrant atmosphere and interesting historical elements, however I do find that it’s getting sillier and more bizarre as the series continues. This particular story’s premise, though a popular topic and fad at the time, felt a bit ridiculous. The policing elements felt rather far-fetched and the way the characters spoke to one another felt overly matter-of-fact and unrealistic. I do appreciate the main female character’s feminist stance, and definitely agree with, and understand her views, but she was obstinately staunch, almost militant in her opinions. Finally, there were a few quite steamy scenes that I could have done without in a book focused on a cozy mystery.
So while it’s been a fun series to read, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed several of the books, I’m not absolutely sure I’ll be continuing.
December 20, 2023
4.5 stars. This was such a delightful mix of adventure and romance. It's a historical murder mystery set in 1930s Hollywood, and while the history doesn't necessarily ring true 100% of the time, the characters more than make up for it. I loved that Maggie is so sensible and practical while still being hilariously meddlesome; I loved that Sam is so solid and trustworthy and such an all-around good guy. And their flirty banter actually sounds like stuff normal people would really say to each other on the spur of the moment, which believe ME, is NOT ALWAYS THE CASE
Be warned, there are definitely steamy bits here, as well as psychic dreams and paranormal activity. I will say I actually wish the psychic stuff had been incorporated into the plot better? Because as it is, Maggie has these abilities but doesn't really use them to solve the mystery, which is a little weird. Overall though, this book is a grand old time.
Be warned, there are definitely steamy bits here, as well as psychic dreams and paranormal activity. I will say I actually wish the psychic stuff had been incorporated into the plot better? Because as it is, Maggie has these abilities but doesn't really use them to solve the mystery, which is a little weird. Overall though, this book is a grand old time.
August 17, 2025
5/5
Burning Cove never disappoints. My dear author once again delivers well-developed characters and very intriguing cases. Maggie and Sam made a great team, and their dialogues were charming and sometimes even funny 💜
Burning Cove never disappoints. My dear author once again delivers well-developed characters and very intriguing cases. Maggie and Sam made a great team, and their dialogues were charming and sometimes even funny 💜
May 2, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley, Ms. Quick, and Berkley Books for the opportunity to read an ARC of When She Dreams. An honest review was requested but not required.
When She Dreams features characters that I don’t remember reading about in previous Burning Cove installments: Sam Sage, private detective and disgraced former LA cop, and Margaret (Maggie) Lodge, assistant to and stand-in for the traveling celebrity advice columnist Aunt Cornelia, writer, and “lucid dreamer”.
The best part of this story was the mystery, or the multiple mysteries, I should say. Who was trying to blackmail Aunt Cornelia? Who killed Beverly Nevins and Virginia Jennaway? What is Doctor Oxlade up to? What roles do Arthur and Dolores Guilfoyle play in everything? Who tried to kill Sam? There was a lot going on and Maggie and Sam prove to be a very good detective team. I also enjoyed the 1930s setting, which is an underused time period in my opinion.
Unfortunately, the romance between Maggie and Sam (this is not a spoiler, if you’ve ever read an Amanda Quick book before) seemed abrupt and somewhat clinical. I never really got the impression that anything more was going on between them besides convenience – he was there, she was there, they were in the mood, etc. There was more “spark” between Raina and Luther in their single cameo scene together than in Maggie and Sam’s entire relationship. I also wish there had been a little bit more done with Maggie’s lucid dreaming talent. I kept expecting her to use it over the course of the story, but unless I missed it, I don’t think she did. That was a little disappointing.
I was mildly surprised by the whodunnit, although I will say I’m not a reader who typically tries to parse out all the clues in order to beat the main characters to the conclusion. I prefer being taken on the ride, so to speak. However, the star attraction of this book was definitely the mystery rather than the romance, so I’m happy to report that the mystery was a good one. Now: when are we getting Luther and Raina’s book?
When She Dreams features characters that I don’t remember reading about in previous Burning Cove installments: Sam Sage, private detective and disgraced former LA cop, and Margaret (Maggie) Lodge, assistant to and stand-in for the traveling celebrity advice columnist Aunt Cornelia, writer, and “lucid dreamer”.
The best part of this story was the mystery, or the multiple mysteries, I should say. Who was trying to blackmail Aunt Cornelia? Who killed Beverly Nevins and Virginia Jennaway? What is Doctor Oxlade up to? What roles do Arthur and Dolores Guilfoyle play in everything? Who tried to kill Sam? There was a lot going on and Maggie and Sam prove to be a very good detective team. I also enjoyed the 1930s setting, which is an underused time period in my opinion.
Unfortunately, the romance between Maggie and Sam (this is not a spoiler, if you’ve ever read an Amanda Quick book before) seemed abrupt and somewhat clinical. I never really got the impression that anything more was going on between them besides convenience – he was there, she was there, they were in the mood, etc. There was more “spark” between Raina and Luther in their single cameo scene together than in Maggie and Sam’s entire relationship. I also wish there had been a little bit more done with Maggie’s lucid dreaming talent. I kept expecting her to use it over the course of the story, but unless I missed it, I don’t think she did. That was a little disappointing.
I was mildly surprised by the whodunnit, although I will say I’m not a reader who typically tries to parse out all the clues in order to beat the main characters to the conclusion. I prefer being taken on the ride, so to speak. However, the star attraction of this book was definitely the mystery rather than the romance, so I’m happy to report that the mystery was a good one. Now: when are we getting Luther and Raina’s book?
June 25, 2022
The books are basically the same with different characters. I loved her older work but these newer books are just ehh. The “ romance” is barely a blip and the mysteries all follow the same formula. Time to change it up! With that being said, it’s an okay book to pass the time. Ms. Quick stays true to her strong spunky female characters and silent brooding male characters working together to solve a murder mystery with paranormal overlays.
May 20, 2024
Holy ish. I just realized this was published in 2022. I thought I was reading an 80s back catalogue. I was giving it the old school simplistic writing author is just now getting started, it was a different time that's why all the characters are meh or awful pass. The TSTL heroine, no chemistry forced insta love, sub par struggling male lead and delusional woman in love with nothing, "well the author is just trying out stuff" pass.
And at 1 Star it was me being generous because I finished it. I gave it my time and it was not a DNF. It was tolerable. With some background TV entertainment value. But how on earth can this be a recent publication. Is it a reissue? Because wow.
And at 1 Star it was me being generous because I finished it. I gave it my time and it was not a DNF. It was tolerable. With some background TV entertainment value. But how on earth can this be a recent publication. Is it a reissue? Because wow.
May 20, 2025
Quick and easy read- have always enjoyed the mystery, love stories that are Amanda Quick
(She is a pseudonym for Jane Anne Krentz- Quick is the version of her that write the historical mystery/romance novels)
This novel is heavy in paranormal of lucid dreamers and as usual has some romance and a little bit of murder and a little bit of mystery
Enjoyed :)
(She is a pseudonym for Jane Anne Krentz- Quick is the version of her that write the historical mystery/romance novels)
This novel is heavy in paranormal of lucid dreamers and as usual has some romance and a little bit of murder and a little bit of mystery
Enjoyed :)
March 16, 2022
I received an Advanced Read Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Although a fan of Amanda Quick and Burning Cove, this is probably my least favorite of this series. Maggie and Sam didn't work as well for me as past couples. I wasn't as invested in their future and I missed the humor that is usually a part of Krentz/Quick's writing.
That being said, it's still a recommended read for those who enjoy romantic suspense.
3.5
Although a fan of Amanda Quick and Burning Cove, this is probably my least favorite of this series. Maggie and Sam didn't work as well for me as past couples. I wasn't as invested in their future and I missed the humor that is usually a part of Krentz/Quick's writing.
That being said, it's still a recommended read for those who enjoy romantic suspense.
3.5
May 15, 2023
When She Dreams
3.5 Stars
When her employer, noted advice columnist Aunt Cornelia, receives a blackmail letter, Maggie Lodge employs private investigator Sam Sage to help her locate the villain at a psychic conference in Burning Cove. However, their search becomes more difficult when an imposter appears on the scene, followed by the death of an attendee. Who is behind the events, and how is it related to the legend of the Traveler, an assassin who has the ability to kill in a person's dreams?
This is the third book in the Castle/Krentz/Quick repertoire focusing on the theme of lucid dreaming. While the notion was interesting at first, it is now tediously repetitive.
Maggie and Sam's opposites attract romance has its moments. While their banter is not as engaging as that of Simon and Lyra in book #5, their chemistry is better than Nick and Vivian in book #4 and their HEA is more believable.
The blackmailing plot is the weakest mystery in the series so far and contains many elements from previous books by this author. There are too many disconnected threads, and it is difficult to follow the rather convoluted events. Moreover, the resolution or resolutions as there are actually 3 are anti-climactic.
All in all, not one of the better installments. Hopefully, the next one will be better.
3.5 Stars
When her employer, noted advice columnist Aunt Cornelia, receives a blackmail letter, Maggie Lodge employs private investigator Sam Sage to help her locate the villain at a psychic conference in Burning Cove. However, their search becomes more difficult when an imposter appears on the scene, followed by the death of an attendee. Who is behind the events, and how is it related to the legend of the Traveler, an assassin who has the ability to kill in a person's dreams?
This is the third book in the Castle/Krentz/Quick repertoire focusing on the theme of lucid dreaming. While the notion was interesting at first, it is now tediously repetitive.
Maggie and Sam's opposites attract romance has its moments. While their banter is not as engaging as that of Simon and Lyra in book #5, their chemistry is better than Nick and Vivian in book #4 and their HEA is more believable.
The blackmailing plot is the weakest mystery in the series so far and contains many elements from previous books by this author. There are too many disconnected threads, and it is difficult to follow the rather convoluted events. Moreover, the resolution or resolutions as there are actually 3 are anti-climactic.
All in all, not one of the better installments. Hopefully, the next one will be better.
May 15, 2022
Originally published at Reading Reality
When I first visited Burning Cove, back in The Girl Who Knew Too Much, I wasn’t expecting it to become a series – but I’m very glad that it did!
Burning Cove is kind of a liminal place, and the 1930s were a liminal time. Burning Cove is in California, a place where dreams are made and lost and found. It is an offshoot of Los Angeles and Hollywood, the heart of all that dream making machinery at a time when movies and their magic were blossoming into their heyday.
While the 1930s were a time when the world was holding its breath. WW1 was in the rearview mirror, but its avatars are men and women in their 30s – in the prime of their powers and their adulthood – no matter what shadows darken their pasts or their futures. But the world is also on the brink of war, at least for those with eyes to see, while the world’s economy is still in shambles, feeding the causes and hatreds of the war about to be born.
Among all those dreams, visions and nightmares, it seems fitting that Burning Cove has become a center of dream powers, dream research and possibly dream control. Or, in this particular entry in the series, fulfilling a couple of con artists’ dreams of avarice.
And onto that stage, in this 6th entry in the series, step Maggie Lodge and Sam Sage. Maggie is a lucid dreamer with a realistically cynical view of the pros and cons of her talent. In control, she can wield it like a weapon, out of control it can be used as a weapon against her. As too many in her past have already attempted.
Sam is a private detective, still reeling from the hard knocks of divorce from a woman he never should have married, and being fired from his job as an LA police detective for being too good and too incorruptible at his job. He also happens to be the only private detective in Maggie’s tiny California town who is sober at 9 in the morning. He’s sure the job, whatever it is, will be better than divorce work.
Maggie hires Sam to investigate the blackmail attempt directed at her employer, the advice columnist known as “Dear Aunt Cornelia” in newspapers all around the country. Cornelia is out of the country on an around the world cruise, leaving Maggie with her house, her column and her checkbook to take care of any business while Aunt Cornelia, AKA Lillian Dewherst, is away from home.
Sam, Maggie and the erstwhile blackmailer converge on Burning Cove, where a dream research conference – or con game – is being held under the auspices of the suspiciously glitzy Guilfoyle Institute.
Maggie’s suspicions are already heightened, as the scientific legitimacy of what is obviously a con game or even a pyramid scheme is being shored up by the participation of a real dream scientist who once attempted to drug Maggie and experiment on her talents under the guise of “therapy”.
Sam is just as suspicious, because the Guilfoyles are so obvious about their intentions to fleece the attendees – at least according to a hunch that is so strong that it might well be a talent on its own.
And because the would-be blackmailer is found dead of a drug injection on opening night.
Escape Rating B+: Burning Cove straddles a whole bunch of genre lines. In a nutshell it’s historical paranormal romantic suspense, with pretty much the entire kitchen sink encompassed by those genres in evidence.
When She Dreams is the 6th book in this series, but I don’t think you need to have read the previous books to get into this one. While a couple of main characters from previous entries in the series turn up as side characters in this book, they are far from the focus and are not an intimate part of any of the events. The true continuing element of this series is the location, and since it neither has any dialog nor participates in any romance, not having visited before isn’t a problem for first time visitors.
The paranormal element to this series, as it is to much of the Jayneverse as the author (Amanda Quick/Jayne Castle/Jayne Ann Krentz) calls it, revolves around Maggie’s dream talent. She’s not the first character in these interconnected worlds to manifest a psychic power related to dreams and nightmares, and I’d be willing to bet she won’t be the last, either.
It’s not like that particular talent isn’t hotly debated in real life, after all.
What makes Maggie, and the other women in Burning Cove so fascinating is her realistic grasp on what it means to be a woman in a man’s world at a time when it’s all too easy for a woman to be overlooked, ignored, or in Maggie’s case, locked up for “her own good” by people who claim to love her and have her best interests at heart.
Maggie is a fighter who comes by her distrust of the world in general and men in particular unflinchingly honestly. She has carved out an independent life for herself against the odds, and she’s determined to maintain that independence, and the reader likes her all the better for it.
Sam is not as interesting a character as Maggie is. Maggie sparkles, and it’s easy to see why Sam is attracted to her, even if we don’t see a whole lot of evidence of that attraction until fairly far into the book. But he is a worthy partner for her in the investigation, and not just because he’s able to reluctantly admit that they are partners whether that’s what he planned on or not.
What does sparkle is the way that Sam and Maggie close in on this case that did not originally look like a whole, entire case. It goes from blackmail to murder to fraud to murder to obsession and then reaches back into the past to yet more murder. Following in Maggie’s footsteps as she and Sam unravel the clues one dark and dangerous step at a time makes for a terrific, page-turning thriller, clinging to the edge of one nightmare after another.
When I first visited Burning Cove, back in The Girl Who Knew Too Much, I wasn’t expecting it to become a series – but I’m very glad that it did!
Burning Cove is kind of a liminal place, and the 1930s were a liminal time. Burning Cove is in California, a place where dreams are made and lost and found. It is an offshoot of Los Angeles and Hollywood, the heart of all that dream making machinery at a time when movies and their magic were blossoming into their heyday.
While the 1930s were a time when the world was holding its breath. WW1 was in the rearview mirror, but its avatars are men and women in their 30s – in the prime of their powers and their adulthood – no matter what shadows darken their pasts or their futures. But the world is also on the brink of war, at least for those with eyes to see, while the world’s economy is still in shambles, feeding the causes and hatreds of the war about to be born.
Among all those dreams, visions and nightmares, it seems fitting that Burning Cove has become a center of dream powers, dream research and possibly dream control. Or, in this particular entry in the series, fulfilling a couple of con artists’ dreams of avarice.
And onto that stage, in this 6th entry in the series, step Maggie Lodge and Sam Sage. Maggie is a lucid dreamer with a realistically cynical view of the pros and cons of her talent. In control, she can wield it like a weapon, out of control it can be used as a weapon against her. As too many in her past have already attempted.
Sam is a private detective, still reeling from the hard knocks of divorce from a woman he never should have married, and being fired from his job as an LA police detective for being too good and too incorruptible at his job. He also happens to be the only private detective in Maggie’s tiny California town who is sober at 9 in the morning. He’s sure the job, whatever it is, will be better than divorce work.
Maggie hires Sam to investigate the blackmail attempt directed at her employer, the advice columnist known as “Dear Aunt Cornelia” in newspapers all around the country. Cornelia is out of the country on an around the world cruise, leaving Maggie with her house, her column and her checkbook to take care of any business while Aunt Cornelia, AKA Lillian Dewherst, is away from home.
Sam, Maggie and the erstwhile blackmailer converge on Burning Cove, where a dream research conference – or con game – is being held under the auspices of the suspiciously glitzy Guilfoyle Institute.
Maggie’s suspicions are already heightened, as the scientific legitimacy of what is obviously a con game or even a pyramid scheme is being shored up by the participation of a real dream scientist who once attempted to drug Maggie and experiment on her talents under the guise of “therapy”.
Sam is just as suspicious, because the Guilfoyles are so obvious about their intentions to fleece the attendees – at least according to a hunch that is so strong that it might well be a talent on its own.
And because the would-be blackmailer is found dead of a drug injection on opening night.
Escape Rating B+: Burning Cove straddles a whole bunch of genre lines. In a nutshell it’s historical paranormal romantic suspense, with pretty much the entire kitchen sink encompassed by those genres in evidence.
When She Dreams is the 6th book in this series, but I don’t think you need to have read the previous books to get into this one. While a couple of main characters from previous entries in the series turn up as side characters in this book, they are far from the focus and are not an intimate part of any of the events. The true continuing element of this series is the location, and since it neither has any dialog nor participates in any romance, not having visited before isn’t a problem for first time visitors.
The paranormal element to this series, as it is to much of the Jayneverse as the author (Amanda Quick/Jayne Castle/Jayne Ann Krentz) calls it, revolves around Maggie’s dream talent. She’s not the first character in these interconnected worlds to manifest a psychic power related to dreams and nightmares, and I’d be willing to bet she won’t be the last, either.
It’s not like that particular talent isn’t hotly debated in real life, after all.
What makes Maggie, and the other women in Burning Cove so fascinating is her realistic grasp on what it means to be a woman in a man’s world at a time when it’s all too easy for a woman to be overlooked, ignored, or in Maggie’s case, locked up for “her own good” by people who claim to love her and have her best interests at heart.
Maggie is a fighter who comes by her distrust of the world in general and men in particular unflinchingly honestly. She has carved out an independent life for herself against the odds, and she’s determined to maintain that independence, and the reader likes her all the better for it.
Sam is not as interesting a character as Maggie is. Maggie sparkles, and it’s easy to see why Sam is attracted to her, even if we don’t see a whole lot of evidence of that attraction until fairly far into the book. But he is a worthy partner for her in the investigation, and not just because he’s able to reluctantly admit that they are partners whether that’s what he planned on or not.
What does sparkle is the way that Sam and Maggie close in on this case that did not originally look like a whole, entire case. It goes from blackmail to murder to fraud to murder to obsession and then reaches back into the past to yet more murder. Following in Maggie’s footsteps as she and Sam unravel the clues one dark and dangerous step at a time makes for a terrific, page-turning thriller, clinging to the edge of one nightmare after another.
May 9, 2022
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
A powerful lucid dreamer meets her match in a cynical PI in When She Dreams . Amanda Quick takes readers back to the dazzling world of 1930s Burning Cove, where glamor once again masks more sinister intentions.
Maggie Lodge is a writer who works for the advice columnist Aunt Cornelia. When her employer is blackmailed, Maggie is on the case and hires former detective turned private eye Sam Sage. The two click from the start, even though Sam is skeptical about lucid dreaming and Maggie is wary of trusting anyone after someone she trusted nearly committed her to an asylum. A case of simple blackmail turns deadly when someone is murdered and Sam and Maggie are drawn into a web of lies, showmanship, drugs, and deceit. The longer they investigate, the higher the chance that someone will target them.
I always enjoy a trip to Burning Cove, but you don’t have to be familiar with the series in order to enjoy Maggie and Sam’s book. Quick brings the world alive and I love the contrast of glitter and grime, the shimmering theatricality that masks dark deeds. Maggie and Sam are easy to like; both have been hurt in the past but work past it to open up to each other. They slide into their love story seamlessly and though I do wish there was a bit more emphasis on the emotional connection between them, I still enjoyed their romance overall. The mysteries they have to solve are satisfying and Quick takes you on an entertaining journey there. For me, the backdrop of the world she has created is the star because it’s so dang fun. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading When She Dreams . The atmosphere, period obsession with dreams, psychic phenomena and the like, and the entertaining protagonists with solid chemistry and a satisfying romance that made me smile all come together perfectly.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A powerful lucid dreamer meets her match in a cynical PI in When She Dreams . Amanda Quick takes readers back to the dazzling world of 1930s Burning Cove, where glamor once again masks more sinister intentions.
Maggie Lodge is a writer who works for the advice columnist Aunt Cornelia. When her employer is blackmailed, Maggie is on the case and hires former detective turned private eye Sam Sage. The two click from the start, even though Sam is skeptical about lucid dreaming and Maggie is wary of trusting anyone after someone she trusted nearly committed her to an asylum. A case of simple blackmail turns deadly when someone is murdered and Sam and Maggie are drawn into a web of lies, showmanship, drugs, and deceit. The longer they investigate, the higher the chance that someone will target them.
I always enjoy a trip to Burning Cove, but you don’t have to be familiar with the series in order to enjoy Maggie and Sam’s book. Quick brings the world alive and I love the contrast of glitter and grime, the shimmering theatricality that masks dark deeds. Maggie and Sam are easy to like; both have been hurt in the past but work past it to open up to each other. They slide into their love story seamlessly and though I do wish there was a bit more emphasis on the emotional connection between them, I still enjoyed their romance overall. The mysteries they have to solve are satisfying and Quick takes you on an entertaining journey there. For me, the backdrop of the world she has created is the star because it’s so dang fun. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading When She Dreams . The atmosphere, period obsession with dreams, psychic phenomena and the like, and the entertaining protagonists with solid chemistry and a satisfying romance that made me smile all come together perfectly.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
April 6, 2025
When my BFF told me that she'd found a fun noir detective romance written fairly recently, I knew I had to check it out. I love the noir detective vibe, which has sadly gone out of vogue, and When She Dreams did not disappoint. The romance between Sam and Maggie was exactly what I wanted: smart, sassy woman disrupting the life of a crusty, stoic detective. They are nuanced, fleshed out characters, which I really appreciated as this is the kind of story where it'd be too easy to make them extreme versions of their archetypes.
The romance is definitely the strength of this book rather than the mystery frame its built around. It more plays at seeming like a mystery rather than actually being one. It misses a lot of the conventions, it's not particularly thought out, and the villains are given POVs much too early and often, which kills the whodunnit and the suspense.
That being said, 4 ⭐️ for fun, style, noir vibes, and a great couple! Definitely recommend for someone looking for a strong romance who doesn't mind overlooking a weak mystery.
The romance is definitely the strength of this book rather than the mystery frame its built around. It more plays at seeming like a mystery rather than actually being one. It misses a lot of the conventions, it's not particularly thought out, and the villains are given POVs much too early and often, which kills the whodunnit and the suspense.
That being said, 4 ⭐️ for fun, style, noir vibes, and a great couple! Definitely recommend for someone looking for a strong romance who doesn't mind overlooking a weak mystery.
May 10, 2022
As a comparison to the recent books in the series, this one felt much more solid. It didn’t rely heavily on the previous cast of characters, though a few make appearances, allowing Maggie and Sam to take a true lead in their own story. It was a much more concise storyline too, fun to follow with just the right touches of noir. Sam was a bit cookie-cutter but he gave the right energy for Maggie to play against.
The mystery had a good number of characters and murders to shuffle through and the paranormal/dream angle was better balanced in this addition to the series (I had issues with the previous book). The romance was a little gumshoe-lead-in-clunky, a term I’ve just made up. It sort of hit the necessary genre checklist boxes but it was also too abrupt.
Still, I love this series’ entertainment factor. It’s always a great listen and/or read. Perfect for a little thrill or sunny day reading.
The mystery had a good number of characters and murders to shuffle through and the paranormal/dream angle was better balanced in this addition to the series (I had issues with the previous book). The romance was a little gumshoe-lead-in-clunky, a term I’ve just made up. It sort of hit the necessary genre checklist boxes but it was also too abrupt.
Still, I love this series’ entertainment factor. It’s always a great listen and/or read. Perfect for a little thrill or sunny day reading.
June 29, 2022
I was immediately captured by the first line in this book and I didn't put it down until I reached the end. Ms. Krentz's historical details brought the characters and setting to life. A few clever twists, only a few suspects and a touch of paranormal with the focal point being lucid dreaming made this another winner in this series for me.
April 18, 2022
When She Dreams is the latest in Amanda Quick's 'Burning Cove' series. I admittedly have not read the previous books in the series, but I don't know that they're necessary to fully immerse yourself in the world and to understand the story. I do believe it was enough to get me VERY curious about the rest of the characters and the world of Burning Cove!
This book follows the story of Maggie Lodge, the assistant to advice columnist, Dear Aunt Cornelia - when she receives a blackmail threat meant for her employer. Maggie is a gifted woman, and lucid dreamer. Very curious about the gift she has and having spent many years exploring this, being accused of female hysteria and fragile nerves, she is DETERMINED to find answers and hopefully thwart this blackmailer in the process.
Enter private investigator, Sam Sage. Who ends up being her last hope for assistance in this case, and also happens to not jump to the easiest conclusion about Maggie's talents (again, fragile female nerves and hysteria). He's a classic PI vibe but incredibly sweet underneath his professional exterior.
This book was full of suspense, romance, and a touch of paranormal tales. I genuinely didn't know what to expect going into this story and I found it wildly entertaining. For me, I had hoped there would be a tiny bit more romance but what was here fit with the story and progression so well. The way Maggie had to deal with defending herself was very much a product of the times (1930s) and while it's upsetting to read, it was very much how things ran back then.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and want to read the rest. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
This book follows the story of Maggie Lodge, the assistant to advice columnist, Dear Aunt Cornelia - when she receives a blackmail threat meant for her employer. Maggie is a gifted woman, and lucid dreamer. Very curious about the gift she has and having spent many years exploring this, being accused of female hysteria and fragile nerves, she is DETERMINED to find answers and hopefully thwart this blackmailer in the process.
Enter private investigator, Sam Sage. Who ends up being her last hope for assistance in this case, and also happens to not jump to the easiest conclusion about Maggie's talents (again, fragile female nerves and hysteria). He's a classic PI vibe but incredibly sweet underneath his professional exterior.
This book was full of suspense, romance, and a touch of paranormal tales. I genuinely didn't know what to expect going into this story and I found it wildly entertaining. For me, I had hoped there would be a tiny bit more romance but what was here fit with the story and progression so well. The way Maggie had to deal with defending herself was very much a product of the times (1930s) and while it's upsetting to read, it was very much how things ran back then.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and want to read the rest. Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2022
When She Dreams by Amanda Quick continues the Burning Cove series. However, while the main characters have chemistry between themselves, they don’t have the usual level of angst that keeps them apart. This leads to a very quick read without even a small amount of suspense. The biggest mystery is revealed at the end of the book, but involves a character one hadn’t even met before. More could have been done with the spooky villa, Oxlade the crazy dream researcher, and the background of the Guilfoyles. Readers of the series will want to read this, but no one should start with this book. Thank you to Edelweiss and Berkley/Penguin for the pre-pub ebook edition.
July 20, 2022
2.5 stars
I didn't like this book. The story, a romantic suspense, is set in the little town of Burning Cove in 1930s, like a few others of Quick's latest novels, but of all of them, it is the weakest. I didn't like the female protagonist at all. She was stupid and perky - a weird combination. And my dislike of her affected my impression of the entire book.
I didn't like this book. The story, a romantic suspense, is set in the little town of Burning Cove in 1930s, like a few others of Quick's latest novels, but of all of them, it is the weakest. I didn't like the female protagonist at all. She was stupid and perky - a weird combination. And my dislike of her affected my impression of the entire book.
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