I really enjoyed this fast-paced historical fiction story! I loved that it had romance and mystery involved with Delvina having to work with Kent Brisbane, the man who broke her heart years before. Some of these characters came from McDaniel's previous story, but you would be fine not having read that yet. Overall, it was a really good read!

"You have this maddening way of robbing my sanity." 😍 And honestly? This story might just rob you of your sanity too—in the best way!

Rachel Scott McDaniel delivers another swoon-worthy, fast-paced historical mystery with The Dreams We Knew. Packed with enemies-to-lovers banter, second-chance romance, and an addictive whodunit, this story is impossible to put down!

Determined to shed society’s misfit label, Delvina becomes a private investigator, but her latest case forces her to work with Kent Brisbane—the man who broke her heart and holds a secret that could ruin her. Set against the glitz and grit of 1920s New York, they race to uncover a killer before it’s too late.

If you love Roaring '20s glamour, detective duos, sizzling romance, and twisty mysteries, this book is for you! While it can be read as a standalone, fans of Walking on Hidden Wings and The Mobster’s Daughter will love the extra depth.

A must-read for historical romance and mystery lovers!

Rachel Scott McDaniel has done it again! The Dreams We Knew is an atmospheric and intriguing blend of historical fiction, mystery, and second-chance romance that kept me hooked from start to finish.

I always love the time periods McDaniel writes about, and the Roaring ’20s setting was such a treat! The rich historical details made the story come alive, immersing me in the era’s glamour, secrets, and intrigue. The dual POV and flashbacks added so much depth, making the mystery even more compelling as the layers of the past unfolded.

The romance had all my favorite tropes—forced proximity, second chances, and fantastic dialogue between the main characters. A private detective and an investigator teaming up? Yes, please! Their dynamic was full of tension, chemistry, and just the right amount of banter. And while the romance was closed-door, the emotional connection was beautifully written.

With plot twists that kept me guessing and a perfect balance between mystery and romance, The Dreams We Knew is another must-read from Rachel Scott McDaniel. If you love historical fiction with depth, heart, and a touch of suspense, this one belongs on your list!

Quote: "This heart no longer beats for me, but for you. You, Delvina, are a thief to the highest degree."

I enjoyed going back to the roaring twenties in this story! There was some overlap from some of the author’s previous books, but it can be read as a stand alone.

I read and love Rachel Scott McDaniel’s novels for her vivid descriptions of the 1920’s and her gift of placing an appealing story in the midst of that setting. The Dreams We Knew is a captivating story with an endearing second chance romance and plenty of 20’s mystery and intrigue. McDaniel’s writing is fast-paced and exciting. I became so involved in the storyline that I almost expected to look down and see I was dressed as a flapper. The banter between Kent and Delvina is delightful, even when they don’t see eye to eye.
The characters in this story were introduced in previous books, one which I had read and one which I had not. Do not let that deter you from picking up this book because it can be read as a stand-alone.
I was given a copy of this book by the author. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

You guys. This book is about second chances and adoption. I don't know about you, but for me, that right there would be enough to make me read it. Well, that isn't COMPLETELY accurate. The fact that Rachel Scott McDaniel wrote it would be enough to make me read it.

Rachel Scott McDaniel has a way of plopping the reader in the middle of an action scene and the reader doesn't even mind. In fact, this bibliophile was immediately drawn into the action. And a left-handed...main?...character? I, as a lefty myself, loved reading about that! We *are* rather intriguing, you know.

But even without those things, this book is beautiful. The story inside, while a mystery, played second fiddle to the dazzling romance happening. It had me completely enamored with the both of them, and I was legitimately sad when the story ended. I could have happily kept reading about the rest of their lives.

We all know I don't pick favorites. But if I did, this would easily be in the running for the entire year.

Oh my goodness- I absolutely loved The Dreams We Knew by Rachel Scott McDaniel! This is the story of Delvina Kline and Kent Brisbane, and is set in 1920 and 1924, in New York City. They have a marriage to heal, a parent to track down, and a murder to solve. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Rachel wrote this story- mostly from Delvina’s point of view in the current timeline, with several chapters from Kent’s perspective in 1920 strategically placed throughout. Their second chance at love and a joyful marriage is one of my favorite romance tropes, and it was done so well here! There are sweet, funny, and swoony moments- I could hardly stop reading when real life beckoned. I also appreciated the light faith thread throughout the novel. This is a clean romance; nothing besides kissing is described, though further actions of a married couple are alluded to. The murder mystery drew me in, and I was pretty surprised by the ending! I also learned a few new facts about the time period. I’m pretty sure this is my favorite book of Rachel’s…I’m already ready to read it again! If you’ve never read any of her books, this would be a great one to start with! Thank you to the author and publisher for my review copy. All thoughts above are my own; I was not required to write a positive review.

“What do you say, Vinny? Should we give it a go?” He tossed the question he’d so flippantly asked at Mother’s dinner party.

I could imagine a thousand ways this venture could go wrong, but my heart dared me to hope. And I was never one to refuse a dare. “Okay, Kent. I accept your terms.”

Well, friends, she’s done it again! Rachel has written an amazing book that drew me in from the very first line!

Her ability to create a world that the reader cannot only imagine, but also feel, is unparalleled! All her books that I have read have a certain vibe and I. Am. Here. For. It.

I love reprising Kent’s character from Walking on Hidden Wings and getting to know the mysterious man behind the cigarette case. His is an old soul forged deep in the depths of experience.

Delvina Kline is an anomaly being a part of high society, adopted, and a PI. She has made her own way in the world and is determined to not let anything change that fact.

Kent’s ability to coax Delvina into real conversation and show her he cares after losing her trust is an absolute wonder.

Read this book if you like: Dual POV, 1920s, Whodunnit, Sleeping Sickness, Abandoned Printing Presses, Rollerskating, Cheek Scars, Closed Terminals, Husband and Wife, Seedy Characters, Special Knives, Nicknames, Name Plates, Weddings

Content: mentions of gambling, mobsters, blackmail, murder, romance: kisses and mentions of implied intimacy between a married couple (off page, no details).

I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Delvina and Kent,

Oh my goodness! You two have become my new favorites! I finished your AMAZING book, The Dreams We Knew, over a week ago, and I’m still thinking about it. Not only that, but it’s the first time in a long time that I stayed up to finish a book. It was 2:00 AM when I finished, and I wish it hadn’t ended. I’d stay up all night to spend time with you two. Which is why you will find me doing a reread as soon as I finish Walking on Hidden Wings. Ahhh… it was so, so, so good!

Delvina, you are the bee’s knees of female private investigators! I was in awe of you the entire time from the first sentence. You’re amazing! The way you can face a mob boss, and defend yourself against a no-good fellow, you rock! And then you have to face Kent! The tension between you two! Loved it. But what a guy! Kent, you’re fabulous. I loved getting to know you better after Walking on Hidden Wings. You’re smart, funny, and I’d hire you if I ever needed a P.I. The way you flirt, the emotion, and banter between you and Delvina. There were multiple times that I was just a puddle of swoon happiness! So, so, SO good!

Let’s give a round of applause for Rachel Scott McDaniel! I don’t know how she does it, but every time she writes a book, she tops the last. Last year, she wrote one of my favorite books, and this year, your story is guaranteed to be in my top favorites. I’m sitting here giddy just thinking about how much I loved it.

I will be seeing you both very soon.

Sincerely,
A very Devoted Reader

P.S. Delvina, I promise to read The Mobster’s Daughter as soon as possible. I can’t believe I haven’t yet.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: The Dreams We Knew
Author: Rachel Scott McDaniel
Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery
Publisher: Kregel
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: “‘Your secret’s safe with me.’…It was that remark all those years ago that had led us on a path I tried hard to forget but lately was all I remembered.” Delvina Salvastano Kline has sworn that she would never trust her heart to Kent Brisbane again. But when a model is found dead in Delvina’s apartment building, the two private investigators are bound together for a quest to find truth. As they navigate the mystery of the murdered woman, they’re also drawn to find answers for the secrets of their own pasts and hopes for a future. As two misfits in the society of their time, can they uncover the truth of the mystery and finally find peace with the past and their place in the world?

Analysis: Intrigue, mystery, romance, faith—this book has it all! And it’s all set against the unique backdrop of the 1920s. Rachel Scott McDaniel sure does know how to write a character! They’re relatable, loveable, and witty. I loved the banter between Delvina and Kent. It has a romcom feel of enemies-to-lovers, but it’s perfect for historical fiction fans! And the plot?! Fascinating! The pacing was perfect. It kept me guessing to the very end and trying hard not to google search anything in case it gave away a spoiler (ps - I don’t think it would have). If you’re looking for a beautiful blend of romance and adventure, this is just the book for you!

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Content Thoughts: I would recommend this one for mature (probably married) readers just due to the nature of the romance. There is some fade-to-black romance between a married couple. Think sweet, swoony kisses. Also, you don’t have to read Walking on Hidden Wings before this one, but you will see some repeat characters and minor spoilers. So I’d definitely recommend it!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

From the amazing main characters to the twists and turns of the mystery, this story had me immersed in 1920's New York. The relationships and romance are just perfect! I felt as if I knew these characters. They dealt with struggles, yet matured through them. And the romance was swoony! The sleuthing was fun to follow with quite the suspenseful solution!

McDaniel has become one of my favorite authors! Highly recommended!

I received an early digital copy from the publisher opinions are my own.

✨THE DREAMS WE KNEW✨

“You realize I’ll have need of your arm until I know I won’t fall and shatter any bones.”

“See? My plan is working.” I held out my hands to her. “We’re not even five minutes here and you already want to touch me.”

✨✨✨

“I’ll give up anything to have you.”

✨✨✨

Well, Kent Brisbane, I knew you would have my heart. Book one gave me a little glimpse, and Rachel you delivered on this character. Goodness gracious 🫠🫠🫠

Roaring twenties, two detectives, a mystery to solve...and most importantly a second chance romance full of flirty banter, sweet touches, and passionate kisses. The dialogue alone...🔥🔥🔥

Historical suspense romance for the win! If anything, please read this for Kent Brisbane. The Dreams We Knew releases tomorrow!!

I will pick up anything you write Rachel! Just keep them coming!

I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT! This is for sure my new favorite book by Rachel McDaniel. The romance left me swoony. The mystery had me turning the pages. I finished it and immediately wanted more of these characters - give me a whole series! Fans of Ashley Weaver should definitely give this book a try.

ALL THE STARS!!!

With the truth of her birth revealed, Delvina does not fit in with the upper crust of NYC society and decides to pursue her dream of becoming a private investigator. When she is hired to find the killer of an up and coming model, she comes face to face with PI Kent Brisbane, the man who stole her heart but who she hasn't seen in four years.

When she forms a reluctant partnership with Kent to solve the case, the two race to find the killer. Delvina soon realizes that not only is her life in danger as she discovers secrets of those who would do anything to keep them hidden, she may be in danger of losing her heart again to the one man she has never been able to forget.

What you'll love:
1920s NYC
second chance romance
dual pov
forced proximity
private investigators
flashbacks
PLOT TWISTS!!
so much chemistry!
flirty, witty banter
mystery to be solved
ALL THE KISSES!!!
"I'll give up anything to have you."

I am officially declaring Rachel the queen of historical second chance romance because oh, sweet heavens, THIS BOOK!!! Just when I think I could not love Rachel's books anymore she writes this absolutely breathtaking masterpiece. She strikes such a perfect balance of mystery and swoon and connection it makes the story completely unputdownable!

I love that we get a story for two favorite side characters that we have already met in two separate books and what a story. The tension and emotional connection between Kent and Vinny was sooo fantastic and those flashbacks seriously my heart into a puddle. And watching them fall for each other all over again? SWOON.

The unique setting, the endearing characters, the mystery and suspense, the swoony romance - this book has it all in spades and loved every.single.page of it! Though the main characters are seen first in other books, this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.

10/10, this will be a forever favorite! Brilliantly done in every way!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.

The Dreams We Knew is written by Rachel Scott McDaniel. Her stories always transport readers back into time. In this story, we find ourselves in the roaring twenties. This is an underwritten time period. in which the author has captured beautifully.

New York debutant Delvina Salvastano Kline has embraced her role as a societal misfit after discovering her birth father was a crime boss. She was briefly married to Kent Brisbane. They moved forward as private investigators and each are working on growing their own business. However, their paths cross again and they find themselves having to work together when a promising young fashion model is found dead.

Both Delvina and Kent have secrets and baggage - but we see that they were good together. They are complete opposites. We have met these characters in previous books - so it was good to see them again. Do not fear, if you have not read the author's previous books, there is enough backstory to not confuse you.

The author always writes such amazing historical fiction stories. I loved seeing the mystery unfold and the chemistry grow. The book is well written, the storyline engaging. Thank you to the author and publisher for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

“…I can’t breathe without you.”

All the love for this amazing book! Rachel Scott McDaniel’s written another absolute winner! The Dreams We Knew started off with a bang & didn’t let go. I adored this fiery, opposites attract second chance romance set amidst the glitz & glamour of the Roaring 20’s. With an intriguing mystery, witty banter, sizzling chemistry, & a touch of faith, this riveting whodunnit was impossible to put down.

The intrepid New York debutant Delvina Salvastano Kline has embraced her role as a societal misfit after discovering her birth father was a crime boss. Now a budding private investigator, she finds herself in the middle of a case involving a murdered model. Though “Vinny” is clever & tough when it comes to her cases, the man who left her four years ago has the power to unravel it all when he comes back into her life.

Detective Kent Brisbane has many secrets. But, the biggest secret of all is one he’s been hiding for four long years. When he meets Vinny on a case, he’s determined to not let what happened four years ago happen again.

Loved Kent & Vinny “Knuckles!” This dynamic duo’s chemistry absolutely crackled on the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed how they worked together all while trying to sort out their relationship. Though they’re opposites when it comes to stations in life, they share a lot in common “the misfits have all the fun.” I loved uncovering the secrets of their past right along with the mystery they’re trying to solve.

The mystery itself was a clever puzzle that kept me on my toes. It’s a complex web that spans the highest rungs of society to the lowliest. I loved all the history woven in throughout that made it even more compelling like the mysterious “Sleeping Sickness” based on actual events.

Highest of recommendations for this amazing historical romantic mystery! Fans of the author’s previous books will recognize Delvina & Kent. I was so thrilled to get their story & see other familiar faces again! Definitely a must read! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author & publisher. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.

No one writes 1920s like Rachel Scott McDaniel and it just gets better with each book. I loved DelvinaI mean what’s not to love about a socialite turned private investigator in New York City. Ans of course Kent who you first meet in Walking on Hidden wings.

Not only I am I a sucker for 1920s set novels I’m a sucker for a good mystery and romance full of banter which The Dreams we knew has in spades along with a second chance romance. I finished this one in one day because I had to know what happened and I loved every minute McDaniel is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine.



I received a copy of this book from the author as part of a blog tour I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

After reading Walking on Hidden Wings by this author last year, I was excited to read The Dreams We Knew!

Four years ago, secrets and unanswered questions ended Delvina Kline and Kent Brisbane’s marriage, or so they thought. Both have moved forward, apart from one another, as private investigators, when suddenly their paths reconnect.

Mystery woven into intriguing historical details, immerse readers into the glam and glory of the 1920’s! With effectively executed flashbacks, readers gain necessary background details from Kent’s point of view, creating a perfectly paced romantic, action packed can’t put down tale!

THE DREAMS WE KNEW
by: Rachel Scott Mcdaniel
@rachel_scott_mcdaniel

-I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“I’d do anything for you…Because people do drastic things for those they love.”

~In the glitz and glam of New York City’s elite circles, Delvina Salvastano Kline walks a delicate line between her privileged upbringing and her murky past…

“As far as family trees went, mine had tangled roots and several shaky limbs.”

-My friends, THE DREAMS WE KNEW, is such an enthralling blend of mystery and second-chance romance. It’s a quick-paced story that hooked me with the perfect amount of banter and tension. It is precisely and wonderfully filled with great mystery, dear humor, sparkling romance, has such endearing characters, and is beautifully weaved with a delicate balance of such swoon and connection. The history and attention to every single detail shimmers so brightly in this great adventure. Uniquely set during the Roaring Twenties in 1924 with and told with flashbacks from 1920, adds such an extra layer of depth while giving such great clues, redemption, and clarity to discovering the whole complete truth. All of the little threads, the details, the twists fully captured my heart. Watching dear characters working together in less than perfect situations and settings fall for each other all over again with trust was the cherry on top! This heart-stopping romantic suspense story is definitely well worth the beautiful read any day!
🙌🏻📚💯

“There’s one part of you I want most of all.” “You know what that is?” “Your heart.”

-Content: murder, stabbing, previous death of parents Romance: fade to black closed door, mild innuendo between married couple, topics related to parental abandonment and adoption, no swearing.

“This heart no longer beats for me, but for you. You, Delvina Brisbane, are a thief to the highest degree.”

-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

#thedreamsweknew
#rachelscottmcdaniel

“Be my family.”

#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads

“Those dark moments enabled me to appreciate the light. With Delvina by my side, I vowed to embrace it fully.”

When it comes to novels set in the Roaring Twenties, Rachel Scott McDaniel is one of the best in the business. Her stories are addictive and dynamic, romantic and realistic. I love how completely hooked I am each time I pick one up and The Dreams We Knew just knocked it out of the park for me.
I have to start by saying I love the second chance romance trope and McDaniel has proven she is a master in telling a second chance romance story. I was invested with Kent and Delvina's history and current relationship from the very second they appeared on the page together and oh my my, that chemistry was poppin'! I seriously could not get enough. The banter and cleverness demonstrated between Kent and Vinny was scrumptious. I love that Kent had taught Vinny how to be a detective and watching them work the case and unfold the mystery together was fantastic. I also loved the way the story was crafted and the use of dual POV to show past and present for this couple. So so so good.
If you enjoy historical romance with a bit of suspense and mystery, this is for you. I loved it and will definitely be picking it up and reading it over and over again. Five stars easily.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel from UpLit Reads and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.