The Dreams We Knew is the third book I have read written by Rachel Scott McDaniel, and I look forward to reading more. Last year, I read Walking on Hidden Wings, and it was one of my favorite books of 2024. I know we are not that far into 2025, but The Dreams We Knew is one of my top reads so far.

The character development was fantastic. I loved getting to know Kent Brisbane a little bit better (he is in Walking on Hidden Wings) and getting to know Delvina. It was such a fun story, pulling back the layers of these characters.

The storyline and setting were outstanding. Once again, Rachel Scott McDaniel did an amazing job taking us back to the 1920s. As soon as the book was opened, I was there in the hustle and bustle of the roaring 20s.

The relationship between Delvina and Kent was perfect. I loved watching them overcome their difference and past to rekindle their relationship. Overall, it was the perfect balance. Not too much that I felt uncomfortable.

Once again, Rachel Scott McDaniel did a really great job intertwining faith throughout the book. Pointing the reader back to God. It was really encouraging.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Rachel Scott McDaniel has penned an outstanding novel set against the atmospheric backdrop of the roaring twenties. Ms. McDaniels love of the 1920's is apparent as she weaves historical detail throughout the story, with a strong sense of setting, allowing me to be fully immersed within the pages of the story.

The Dreams We Knew is the perfect blend of romance and mystery. Both of the main characters were secondary characters in previous novels, but it is necessary to read them to enjoy their story. Both of these strong and independent characters harbor vulnerable hearts from their past. With skillful plot pacing, the author reveals their backstory. This second chance at romance is delightful as they seek to overcome past differences.They quickly find themselves embroiled in a case that involve an unexplained death that might be more than it seems. As secrets of the past become entwined with those of the present, they find danger lurking around every corner.

Ms. McDaniel's story will draw a full gamut of emotions from readers, as they feel a roller coaster of emotions from sorrow to happiness. They will root for Delvina and Kent, hoping they find the courage to overcome the past to find love and acceptance.

Ms. McDaniel is quickly becoming one of my 'go-to' authors. Looking forward to reading future novels from her talented pen.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Spectacular! This book has easily taken first place as my favorite second chance romance. I loved every minute of this book!

Delvina and Kent were secondary characters in two of Rachel’s other books, but you don’t need to have read them to enjoy this book (although you should read them 😍) This story had the perfect amount of mystery, suspense, and faith and of course a swoon worthy romance.

Brisbane! I really liked Kent in the last book he was in but now, I pretty much love him. I loved the chemistry between Kent and Delvina. Their witty banter, sweet vulnerable conversations, and swoony romantic moments. The danger they faced together, the mystery of their case, and the suspense of Kent’s story, Wow!

A few favorites:
I’d never been one to give in to addiction, but Delvina’s laugh? I craved it.

“We’re being ridiculous.” “It usually happens when I’m around you. You have this maddening way of robbing my sanity.”

“After the scare you gave me. You’ll be lucky if I let you out of my sight.” “That’s quite territorial of you, Mrs. Brisbane. I like you this way.l

This ARC was provided by the author through NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

Get ready for the next glamorous Roaring Twenties mystery from Rachel Scott McDaniel! Socialite Delvina Salvastano Kline spends her days as a private investigator. When a kidnapping case brings her ex-husband Kent Brisbane across her path, Delvina must decide if working together to solve a murder is worth the risk to her heart. I was so excited when I found out Kent was getting his own book after his side plot in Walking on Hidden Wings. McDaniel has brought us another fantastic look at the opulence of 1920s NYC contrasted with the seedier mob underbelly. I feel like a lot of 20’s fiction focuses on the British Downton Abbey side of things so I am enjoying McDaniel’s focus on New York. I love historical stories that mix romance and intrigue, and The Dreams We Knew did that flawlessly! If you love second chance romance, banter, historical suspense, and faith-filled stories, grab a copy of The Dreams We Knew!

*I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. I was not required to give a review and all opinions expressed above are my own.

This book is amazing! I was so excited to get an early copy of this story; I've read other books by Rachel and have been enthralled by each. The era, the somewhat unconventional strong FMC that aren't always found in the 20's, the action, danger and mystery, the faith undertones, and the characters that you forget are fictional. It grabbed me in the first chapter and never let up.

Delvina is a private investigator- and a very good one. She is raised the daughter of a high-society family in NY with all of the perks. However, her birth father is a notorious crime-boss and when this information comes out, she is somewhat shunned from the elite circles.

Kent, also a detective, raised himself on the streets. Their backgrounds could not be more different. They are paired up on an assignment are forced to work together despite their competitive nature and their history. They were once in love.

The back story is revealed in layers in a way that you really feel it- and care. While working together in less than perfect situations and settings, you learn and understand each POV, as they discover the truth about what happened years ago.

"Grief had no manners. It sneaked up on a person when least expected and ruined a perfectly good mood."

"It takes strength to lean on God, young lady. If you stubbornly remain on your own two feet, you'll wind up falling."

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

I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes action, mystery, adventure, love, and just plain good story telling.

The Roaring Twenties are in full swing and Delvina is a thoroughly modern woman. Secretly married and just as secretly divorced, she's walking a thin line between her privileged upbringing and the seedier side of town, complete with mob bosses and rumrunners, thanks to her job as a private detective. But when both she and her ex are hired to look into the suspicious death of a local model, bullets--and sparks--fly.

The mystery kept me guessing throughout and all the seemingly divergent storylines tied together satisfactorily by the end. The details were rich and made me feel like I was really there 100 years ago. I didn't realize these characters appeared in the author's previous novels, so I did feel a little like I was missing a previous book (turns out I was). However, I was able to follow the story just fine even without reading the author's other works.

Tropes:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Second Chance Romance
-Secrets
-Forced Proximity
-Closed door, kissing and implied passion between a married couple

Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC.

Absolutely loved the book. The mystery was so good! The romance amazing. Loved the characters and getting to know their backstory. So so good!

Once you start reading The Dreams We Knew, you will not be able to put it down! I know I couldn't.

What a captivating mystery and romance! I loved every page, and it was such a special treat that this story unites two supporting characters from previous stories by Author Rachel McDaniel. Kent Brisbane (from Walking on Hidden Wings) and Delvina Klein (from The Mobster's Daughter) star in this this can't-put-it-down tale with a second-chance at love, plenty of banter and romantic chemistry, and a mystery that keeps you turning pages. Both Kent and Delvina are passionate, independent private investigators who meet up on a case after four years. (It's not necessary to have read the previous books, but they're fantastic and you don't want to miss them.)

The Dreams We Knew is set during the Roaring Twenties in 1924 with and told with flashbacks from 1920, both are vital to the story. I love mysteries, and second chance romances with married couples is a favorite trope. The author beautifully weaves together this inspirational story that kept me guessing to the very end.

I highly recommend this historical mystery and romance, it's sooo good!!

Thank you to the author, and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

The Dreams We Knew is one of those books that once you start reading, you become so totally absorbed in the story, setting, and lives of the characters that you simply can’t put it down! The suspenseful, intriguing mystery kept me engaged from the beginning and guessing to the end. This captivating story unites two of my favorite side characters from prior books—Delvina Kline from The Mobster’s Daughter and Kent Brisbane from Walking on Hidden Wings. Their second-chance romance features lots of playful, teasing banter and just the right amount of romantic chemistry. I love the effectively executed use of flashbacks from 1920, which provide important background information and give in-depth insight from Kent’s point of view, while the main narrative (excluding the epilogue) is conveyed from Delvina’s point of view. The authentic, beautifully sketched Roaring Twenties New York setting brings the story to life, and amazing historical detail woven throughout the story adds authenticity and interest. I love everything about this book—Inspirational Historical Romantic Suspense at its best! It easily made my “best reads ever” list and comes with my highest recommendation!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley with no obligation to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Using sizzling romance and gripping mystery amidst the glitz and glamor of 1920s New York City, Rachel Scott McDaniel has delivered another read with perfect pacing and compelling storytelling that sweeps readers away to decades past for an exciting adventure! Both Delvina and Kent are spirited, strong, and passionate, and their chemistry in unmatched during this second chance romance with a marital twist! Both Delvina and Kent are looking to find their own identities amongst the clamor of family mysteries and secrets, and in the process they learn to lean on God in faith while also trusting each other. The mystery is fast paced with a stunning conclusion you will NOT see coming, so prepare to read this gem of a story in one sitting! You won’t be able to put it down!

I truly believe that Rachel Scott McDaniel has an unparalleled ability to write perfectly paced action, mystery, faith, humor and romance in a thoroughly entertaining read that never disappoints. The Dreams We Knew is just another example of the top notch writing of an incredibly talented author. I can’t wait to see what she writes next!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. My thoughts are my own, I really did adore it!

I don't even know where to begin. The reason is because this book checked off all of my bookish things that I love. I enjoyed every single page. So, I'll start with the main characters. In the early 1920's, Kent and Delvina are estranged and both are private investigators. We go back and forth with their back story. The back story is in Kent's point of view, while the current story is in Delvina's. Y'all! I love them both!

There is murder, there is mystery. There is second chance romance and a happily ever after! So, yes! I highly recommend this book. In fact, I would be so happy if this was the beginning of a series and thus, solve more crimes. Because, this did give me Ashley Weaver vibes. If you are a Weaver fan, then you would enjoy this book too.

Two “exes” come together to solve a mysterious death of an aspiring model in this amazing historical fiction novel!

This was a perfect historical romance and mystery novel to me! All the genres were blended together perfectly and made for such a great read. The book is set in the 1920s and I really enjoyed all the historical elements added in. I even googled some because I had no idea!

Kent and Delvina were amazing main characters. They were both strong and when they were together they were even stronger! Some novels tend to make the characters lack strength in presence of another, but this one didn’t.

The mystery was really well done too! I had no idea of the “who done it” and loved how it all played out!

This book is also categorized as Christian fiction. Religion isn’t a main focus of the book, but was placed in at the perfect times!

The book was very fast paced and kept me entertained. I don’t feel like there were any parts that felt sluggish!

While reading I did notice that a lot repetition. There were a lot of character names in this book and maybe the author did that to just remind us who was who. I personally didn’t need it.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting a clean historical romance with a mystery touch added in!

The Dreams We Knew is a Christian romantic suspense historical fiction novel by Rachel Scott McDaniel set in the 1920s. Although it's challenging for a book to truly fall into four genres, I believe this book does it brilliantly. Although some of the characters are first seen in the author's previous books (Walking on Hidden Wings and The Mobster's Daughter), those books are not necessary to read before reading this, as this book plot is completely stand-alone.

Detective Delvina discovers that her ex-husband Kent, who is also a detective, is still her husband due to a divorce lawyer's scam. The couple must decide how to move forward, while balancing their ever-increasing case load of confusing murders and Kent's search for his biological family. As time goes by, the clues to their cases start in intertwine with their personal life, making this second-chance romance a mystery that takes both detectives working the case to solve.

The Christian elements are authentic, well-placed, and don't feel forced, yet they are fully present in the characters moral choices and their expressions. The romance is swoon worthy and not cringy, with lots of kisses but fully closed-door. The suspense is well-balanced with the romance so that both parts of the plot feel like they truly matter. The mystery kept my attention and kept me guessing until the end. The historical fiction aspects are interesting with true facts scattered throughout the whole book. Definitely read the author's note at the end to uncover the facts.

I loved this book and the writing was on-point. It felt like I was watching a 1920s detective movie. I also enjoyed the dual timeline with flashbacks from the beginning of Kent and Delvina's relationship. This book is written in dual POV. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes these genres!

Content: Kissing only with implied intimacy between a married couple but firmly closed-door, topics related to parental abandonment and adoption, no swearing.

Thank you to Kregel Publications and NetGalley for the complementary copy of this book. My review is my own words is in no way influenced by the author or publisher.

Fabulous!!

Rachel Scott McDaniel just keeps getting better and better! I loved Kent’s character in Walking on Hidden Wings sooo much, and knew that he needed his own story. But what I didn’t realize was that Delvina, Kate’s older sister from The Mobster’s Daughter was going to be his perfect match/estranged wife!! I’m so glad I read the author’s note because overwhelmed brain didn’t connect the dots at first. To me there is nothing better than bringing beloved characters back from favorite stories and fleshing out their own happily ever after. And Rachel does a fantastic job with Kenny and Vinny (wink, wink).

This roaring 20s novel was filled with danger, suspense, and mystery. Kent and Delvina had terrific chemistry and their backstory was complicated and interesting. Second chance romance is a favorite trope of mine, especially when it is between a married couple. HEAs are always worth the effort and hard work. And Kent and Delvina deserved all the happiness considering their respective pasts.

Rachel really outdid herself with this one. She is an automatic read for me and I’ve yet to be disappointed.

Thank you Rachel for my advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

Once again Rachel Scott McDaniel has absolutely knocked it out of the park with a fantastic historical read that will transport us right to the Roaring Twenties. Walking on Hidden Wings was one of my very favorite historical reads last year, so I was definitely very excited to check this one out... and it absolutely did not disappoint. A second chance romance and a good mystery... all with a fantastic 1920s setting? What could be better than that? It was the perfect blend of all of these things and kept me absolutely captivated from start to finish. I also loved seeing the author's note and the actual history weaved into the story as well, making me appreciate the story all that much more. If you're a fan of Christian historical romance, this is absolutely one you'll want to add to your TBR.

**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

Ok. Oh my goodness. What. A. Rush. Honestly, I didn’t see that reveal toward the end coming. Following that up with not knowing how everything would turn out had me DISTRESSED.
I LOVED how we saw both points of view yet in different times. It was unique among the stories I’ve read and it was exceptionally well done. Every bit of intrigue, mystery, themes of trust and forgiveness, romance, and the atmospheric setting of 1920s New York City, blended together to make a compelling and at times heart wrenching story.

Delvina and Kent. Oh goodness they were precious. They were just two hurting souls looking for belonging. Watching as they waded through years of hurt to find their way to forgiveness and understanding was achingly beautiful. And as they really got to know one another? As they fell even harder? I can’t😭
Just precious.

💋Kisses. A fair bit of innuendo. I feel like there was a bit more than I usually read so it affected my rating. Implied intimacy between a married couple.

📝
“The sparkle in his eyes told me whatever rolled out of his smirking mouth next would likely crush my last nerve.”

“As a rule, I disliked charity, though the way she currently smiled at me, I'd gladly take anything she handed over, especially if it involved her heart.”

“Be my family.” (Ok just rip my heart out😭)

“His hands went to my face, a gentle clasp, as his eyes roamed over me in tender fascination.”

*Thank you NetGalley and the author for the ARC of The Dreams We Knew by Rachel Scott McDaniel. All opinions are my own.

Thank you Uplit Reads and the author for the ARC of The Dreams We Knew by Rachel Scott McDaniel. All opinions are my own.

After reading Walking on Hidden Wings by this author last year and enjoying it, I was excited for this new release. I, however, did not know that I would be obsessed with this book! It was so amazing, and it’s definitely a new favorite of mine.

This story is a mashup of genres in the best way possible. I loved the historical details, the intriguing mystery, and the romance with sizzling chemistry. I also appreciated the faith elements throughout.

The Dreams We Knew features some side characters from some of this author’s previous books, but it is considered a standalone novel since you don’t have to read those books first in order to enjoy this one.

Delvina and Kent were such amazing main characters, and I loved the chemistry between them. They each had very different personalities, but they complemented each other so well. I loved how charming Kent was and how he never stopped loving Delvina. The admiration Delvina had for Kent was so heartwarming, and I loved how she consistently boosted his self-worth. There were so many heartfelt scenes between them where they shared their feelings, and I loved all the sweet romantic moments they shared.

The mystery in this story was so interesting, and I loved how the author wove a lot of historical details into the story. I learned a lot about this time period, and I felt immersed in the story from the very beginning. The mystery kept me on my toes, and I didn’t want to put this book down at all.

While it wasn’t a huge portion of the story, I appreciated the Christian faith elements the author included. The characters were still learning to trust and were unsure of their faith a lot, and I felt that their faith was included in a natural way throughout the story.

Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone! Please note that there is some heavier topics in this book including abandonment, death of a parent, violence, and classism.