July's Dreams is a fun and witty story about a girl who owns a "magical" inn. While the magic itself is left for interpretation, my favorite part is the "found family" that has been created and the bond they have. It is funny, sweet, and a lovely read.

ARC Book Review: *July's Dreams* by Stephanie Erickson

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 stars)

Stephanie Erickson’s *July's Dreams*, part of the Calendar Girls series, is a delightful rom-com that will have you laughing, swooning, and rooting for love from start to finish. This standalone novel is a charming blend of humor, romance, and a touch of magic, making it a perfect summer read.

Overview:
Dating is hard enough, but when you find yourself in the midst of someone else's messy breakup, it becomes even more complicated. July Forth, the protagonist, runs the Dreamkeeper Inn, a magical place where guests' dreams come true. Things take a turn when John Adams, a heartbroken man, has his breakup unfold in front of everyone in her lobby. Against her better judgment, July takes him in, setting off a series of heartwarming and humorous events.

Themes and Elements:
1. **Magical Realism:** The inn's ability to make dreams come true adds a whimsical and enchanting element to the story. This magical aspect beautifully complements the romantic plot, making the narrative feel fresh and unique.
2. **Romance and Heartbreak:** John Adams’ journey from heartbreak to healing is portrayed with sensitivity and realism. July’s growing affection for him, despite her initial reluctance, adds depth to the romantic arc.
3. **Humor and Sarcasm:** Erickson’s witty writing and the characters’ playful banter keep the tone light and engaging. The humor is spot-on, making the book an enjoyable and laugh-out-loud read.
4. **Friendship and Support:** The novel highlights the importance of friends who become family. July’s interactions with her best friend and the close-knit community at the inn underscore the theme of finding support and love in unexpected places.

Character Development:
- **July Forth:** A relatable and lovable protagonist, July is compassionate, strong-willed, and a bit of a dreamer. Her internal struggles and her journey towards opening her heart are compelling and endearing.
- **John Adams:** Initially portrayed as brooding and heartbroken, John’s character evolves beautifully. His kindness, willingness to help, and gradual healing make him a perfect romantic interest for July.

Writing Style:
Stephanie Erickson’s writing is engaging and humorous, with a knack for creating vivid characters and settings. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the pacing is just right, ensuring that readers remain hooked throughout the book. The magical elements are seamlessly woven into the plot, adding an extra layer of intrigue and charm.

Final Thoughts:
*July's Dreams* is a heartwarming and hilarious addition to the Calendar Girls series. It’s a story about love, healing, and the magic of second chances. Erickson has crafted a novel that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with characters that feel like old friends by the end.

Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted rom-com or a touching story about finding love when you least expect it, *July's Dreams* is a perfect pick. Highly recommended for fans of magical realism and feel-good romances.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A gentle romance with a gorgeously slow pace and real time to understand what is going on, july and her friends and life are just perfect. They have problems that I felt part of and included. The book was just warm and kind, the romance was natural and nothing showy. I finished this book feeling good about life and myself.

Another great Rom-Com from Stephanie Erickson. July Forth owns The Dream Keeper Inn, a quaint little place in St. Augustine, Florida where dreams come true. In all the years she’s run it, however, the inn has never given her a dream of her own – until now. True to form Ms. Erickson has given us a fun romp filled with delightful characters and a unique setting filled with wonderful dialog and banter with a bit of magic thrown in for good measure. This is the much needed funny, clean romance our society needs. Highly recommended. Thanks to Netgalley and Pickle Press for giving me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

RATING: ★★★★

• 3rd person POV
• closed door

TROPES:
• Friends To Lovers
• Long distance
• Small Town Feel
• He's a Chef
• She's an Innkeeper
• no 3rd act breakup

First of all thank you so much to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op | Pickles Press for providing me with my first ARC.

I loved the story. July and John met during a very unfortunate circumstances but from the moment they met I knew I was going to love them. Their relationship blossomed into a really beautiful friendship through long distance conversations. Their banter was really fun and July's best friend Betty served us with some fun sarcasm. The book was a really easy and fast read, it was pretty much reading itself. Their relationship was very cute.

I loved the magical feel of the inn and I really enjoyed the banters of the guests at the inn. I thought the ending was very rushed though.

This book is a Clean Romantic Comedy so there's no explicit language, or spicy scenes, however be aware there's a lot of God's name in vain use - if you're Christian as me and you don't like that in books, you might want that heads up.

The story in the book deals with infertility and miscarriages of side characters so be aware of that before reading. I do think the author dealt with it nicely. ♥

Overall the book was really good and I really enjoyed it!

"July's Dreams" by Stephanie Erickson is a delightful rom-com that blends humor, romance, and a touch of magic. Set in the enchanting Dreamkeeper Inn, where guests' dreams come true, the story follows July Forth as she navigates life, love, and unexpected turns. The chemistry between July and the heartbroken John Adams is heartwarming, though a bit predictable. With endearing characters and witty banter, this book is a charming read, despite some heavier themes. A must-read for fans of magical settings and heartfelt romance.

July’s Dreams is a delightful, 5-star RomCom. Even a clean one! I’ve read all the Calendar Girl books, and they never disappoint. Ms. Erickson’s clear strength is in the banter between friends and love interests, while also maintaining good depth when life takes its uncomfortable turns. It’s mentioned in the blurb, but I’ll say it again - the book does address infertility in an honest but wrenching way - so if that’s a trigger, be aware and I’m sorry for your loss. The main character and her friends are funny, honest, able to express their anger with each other and life without losing each other, and all-around people I’d love to know. Thank you to Netgalley and Pickles Press for this ARC. I also preordered the book, I love it so much. I highly recommend!!!

I adore this cover and wanted to read the book right away. The story was good. I don't think it will be one of my most favorite of the summer but I enjoyed it. I'm curious to read others by Erickson. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Three stars.

July’s Dreams by Stephanie Erickson
(The Calendar Girls)
Rating: 3/5
Release Date: 1 July 2024

July Forth finds herself juggling three significant aspects of her life:
1. The inn she owns has a mystical quality, granting its guests the realization of their dreams.
2. John Adams, whose public heartbreak unfolded in her lobby.
3. Her tendency to take in strays, especially when they happen to be tall, brooding, and undeniably attractive.

Despite her best friend's warnings against developing feelings for the man whose girlfriend's infidelity played out in front of everyone at the Dreamkeeper Inn, July can't help but feel drawn to him. She senses his need for reassurance of his worthiness, and she's determined to offer him support.

As she grows closer to John, she discovers his inherent kindness and his willingness to stand by her side in times of need. He fills a void in her life she didn't even realize existed. Despite his reluctance to open his heart to love again, July finds herself unable to control her growing feelings.

But can John learn to open his heart once more? And if he does, will the inn grant them a dream worth pursuing?

"July's Dreams" is part of the Calendar Girls rom-com series, known for its humorous and heartwarming stories that can be enjoyed in any order. If you appreciate endearing characters, witty banter, and the bonds of friendship, Stephanie Erickson's delightful love story is sure to enchant you.

While some elements of the plot may be predictable, the addition of the magical element lends a unique touch to July's Dreams. However, what truly shines in this novel are the charming characters and the engaging writing style.

July’s Dreams is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that will leave you with a smile on your face. The blend of humor, romance, and magic within the setting of a quirky inn creates an irresistible charm. Stephanie Erickson excels at crafting lovable characters and infusing the story with meaningful interactions, adding depth to the narrative.

If you enjoy endearing characters, witty banter, and the bonds of found family, then this delightful love story is a must-read. Prepare to experience a range of emotions as you laugh, cry, and fall in love alongside July, John, and the rest of the captivating cast. I eagerly anticipate diving into more works by this talented author.

Please note that July's Dreams includes themes of infertility and miscarriage among secondary characters, so if these topics are sensitive for you, it's advisable to approach with caution.


Thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op | Pickless Press, and the author, Stephanie Erickson, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

Title: July's Dreams by Stephanie Erickson

Release Date: July, 1st, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Dating is hard. Especially when you find yourself smack in the middle of someone else's bad breakup.

July Fourth (yes, that's her real name) owns the magical Dream keeper Inn, where guest’s dreams have a habit of coming true. Things take an unexpected turn when John Adams, a tall, brooding, and heartbroken stranger, has his breakup unfold in the middle of her lobby.

Despite warnings from her best friend, July can’ help but take in this stray. What begins as an act of kindness soon turns into something more as she discovers John's kind heart and willingness to help her through personal tragedies. But can John open his heart again and will the inn gift them a dream worth chasing?

What I Enjoyed:

* Unique Setting: The Dream keeper Inn is a charming, magical setting where dreams reveal the future. It's an enchanting backdrop that adds a whimsical touch to the romance.

* Engaging Characters: July is a delightful protagonist with a big heart, and her chemistry with John is palpable. Their journey from strangers to friends to something more is heartwarming.

* Humour and Sarcasm: The book is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and witty dialogue. July's best friend adds a hilarious dynamic to the story.

* Heartfelt Themes: The story delves into themes of self-worth, healing, and the power of dreams. The subplot involving secondary characters dealing with infertility and miscarriage is handled with sensitivity and depth.

* Romantic Journey: Watching July and John’s relationship evolve is a beautiful experience. Their banter, mutual support, and eventual romance are sure to make readers swoon.

While the magical element adds uniqueness, some aspects of the plot are a bit predictable. However, the charming characters and engaging writing more than make up for it.

July’s Dreams is a wonderful, heartwarming, and magical novel that will leave you smiling. The blend of humour, romance, and enchantment set against the backdrop of a quirky inn makes for a delightful read. Stephanie Erickson’s ability to create lovable, down-to-earth characters and weave in meaningful conversations adds depth to this fun story.

If you love lovable characters, plenty of sarcasm, and friends who become family, you'll adore this hilarious love story. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and fall in love with July, John, and the entire ensemble cast. Can't wait to read more from this author!

Trigger Warning: The book deals with infertility and miscarriage among secondary characters. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please proceed with caution.

Don’t miss out on this enchanting read that’s sure to leave you dreaming of your own magical inn!

Thank you to The Publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op ,The Author Stephanie Erickson & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

A very sweet little book, filled with wit and charm. I wish it could have been longer, to see the development of the characters, I felt as though the plot had been somewhat rushed, with a couple of the main plot points being forgotten (ie- the magic of the inn) Otherwise a very cute and romantic book!

Great rom-com! Likable, relatable characters, good storyline. A wonderful read! Will the inn give you a dream?

I would like to thank Victory Editing NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book!

Right off the bat, I was intrigued with the title and cover for the book. July’s Dreams tells a story of a magical inn that reveals the future through dreams. It’s there where July Fourth meets John Adams and we watch their story unfold from there. It gave Hallmark vibes but sometimes that’s what the doctor ordered. There were moments where I was drowning in the resemblance then it’s brought up with in the book itself. Sometimes the cringe border-lined on a little too much and multiple sentences started with “And”, it felt like that author had a lot to say. I would also advise some spelling checks for example there was a time where “class” was used instead of “glass”.

Pub Date Jul 01 2024
ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op | Pickles Press

review posted to NetGalley & Goodreads

A wonderful, heartwarming, funny, magical novel that is set in a locale close to my heart! I also loved the down-to-earth conversations and how the author incorporated books into the story. Such a fun, loving group of characters that made me laugh and cry. I cannot wait to read another by this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Review to come

Love the cover ❤️
Description caught my attention.
Author is new to me ❤️

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC