The Dreams We Knew

by Rachel Scott McDaniel

"With a brilliantly plotted and perfectly paced book, Rachel Scott McDaniel once again captures her readers from the first page and doesn't let go until the very end."

--Rebekah Millet, award-winning author of Julia Monroe Begins Again


Can two opposites come together to solve the murder of a rising star?


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. Adopted into wealth and opulence, she contends with the legacy of her birth father, a notorious crime boss. In an act of defiance, Delvina sheds the smothering label of "society's misfit" by carving her own path as a private investigator.


When a promising young fashion model is found dead, Delvina is hired to unmask the killer lurking behind the city's shimmering facade. She reluctantly teams up with detective Kent Brisbane, the man she once loved, who knows a secret that could shatter her carefully crafted persona. As they plunge deep into the shadows of New York's underbelly, they discover the stakes are higher than they'd thought. Amidst glittering parties and whispered secrets, the duo races against time to uncover the truth.


Rachel Scott McDaniel delivers a riveting blend of mystery and second-chance romance with gentle undertones of faith in this Roaring Twenties novel.


"Rachel Scott McDaniel's exquisite storytelling in The Dreams We Knew delivers a story brimming with mystery, romance, and captivating characters, all wrapped in a quick-paced adventure you can't put down." --Natalie Walters, award-winning author of Better Watch Out and the SNAP Agency series

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Mystery, Clean Romance, Historical

320 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2024

About the author

Rachel Scott McDaniel is an award-winning author who writes historical and contemporary romance with heart, mystery, and humor. When she’s not dreaming up swoony heroes or happily-ever-afters, you can find her chasing adventures in Ohio with her husband, two amazing kids, and an endless supply of chocolate. Rachel loves hiking trails almost as much as plot twists and is always on the hunt for the next great story … or snack. Connect with her at www.RachelScottMcDaniel.com or on your favorite social media platform!

Reviews

[Lauren (thebookscript) · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love romantic historical fiction with a vein of faith then you need to try a Rachel McDaniels book! The Dreams We Knew is a second chance MARRIAGE trope that I was absolutely here for.

I loved that both characters were detectives who are forced to work together to solve a case. The setting amplified the mystery elements and I loved getting the back and fourth flashbacks into Delvina and Kents relationship.

This is my second book from her and dare I say, I might have enjoyed it even more than the first. This book has it all....murder mystery, suspense, historical tie ins, action, sleuthing, and yes plenty of romance! The romance is sweet and expertly paced..and while it is "sweet" I was impressed with McDaniels ability to give us all the chemistry we crave between a married couple. Getting both characters POV's was also a great addition to the plot.

The faith elements are subtly woven in, like every day expressions of worship and really represented who the characters were in their individual journeys. I felt like I was easily immersed from start to finish and while I am picky in this genre...this will definitely not be my last from this author in the least.

If any of these things sound exciting to you, definitely give this one a go, I don't think you'll regret it.

***I will say that I think its best to read the series in order to pick up on the little hints and easter eggs or side character mentions, but you can fully read each book in this series as a standalone!
**christian fiction, no language, completely closed door.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Bethany Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Scott McDaniel swept me away with this intriguing and mysterious second-chance romance.

Four years ago, secrets and unanswered questions ended Delvina Kline and Kent Brisbane’s BRIEF marriage. They’ve separately moved forward as private detectives, each working to grow their own agency, when suddenly they find themselves thrown together again, investigating a missing person.

As Delvina tries to brush off the sudden reappearance of Kent in her life, a suspicious death takes place in her apartment building. Delvina and Kent are vaulted into a mysterious investigation in the midst of 1920’s New York. From the glitz and glamour of fancy parties, to the dark underworld of gangsters and criminals, they attempt to unravel the mysterious deaths rocking their circle. As they investigate the strange circumstances, they also dive into their pasts. Kent explores his parentage, and Delvina continues to grapple with recent discoveries about her own past. As they quickly uncover things they never knew about each other, a surprising revelation about their brief relationship quickly changes their circumstances.

This was such a fabulous book. The pacing was perfect, I was captivated and intrigued, really couldn’t put it down! I loved Kent and “Vinny”. They were both wounded, yet strong characters. Kent was so Swoony. Sigh..I love how Rachel writes her characters! I also appreciated all the layers to this story. It was FAR from one dimensional. All the little threads, the details, the twists—I enjoyed every aspect! I’m typically super picky about the mysteries I read—I want something believable and realistic. I’ve found that Rachel does mystery so well! This book was no exception. It was so well-done.

This is atmospheric, captivating, and utterly intriguing! I gave it 5 stars! A favorite of the year already!

I received an advanced reader copy to read and review. Thank you to both the author and publisher for the opportunity!

[Meagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author 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.

[Emily Waits (emilylovesreading_) · Rating 5 out of 5]

[Thank you to Kregel Publications and to the author for my copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]

I could NOT put this story down! I was so captivated! I already know it: The Dreams We Knew will make it to my 2025 Top Reads list.

Set in 1924 and flashing back to 1920, this historical fiction was so full of everything I’d hoped for. The pacing was perfect, the chemistry was phenomenal, the setting was vivid, the attention to detail was amazing. I have nothing but praise for this book!

Read this for:

-Roaring Twenties setting (speakeasies, mob references, glamor, parties, etc.!)
-Mysteries
-Second-chance Romance (closed-door, some innuendo)
-Private Investigators
-Daughter-of-an-infamous-mobster FMC
-The BEST banter
-Faith themes (so well-done)

Note: The characters in this story are familiar characters for anyone who has read the rest of Rachel Scott McDaniel’s books. I cannot wait to go back and read all of Rachel’s other books now!

I’ve already personally recommended this title to so many of my off-line friends, and I’m so excited to share about it here, too.

Highly recommend!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

An impressively complex mystery! I thought this would be light on the mystery but it was so skillfully woven into the story of Delvina and Kent’s relationship. It was a great balance and all the plot threads came together in a very satisfying way. Now I’m eager to read more from this author!

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.”

[Courtney Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE LOVE LOVE this story! More coherent review to come :)

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

1920 and 1924 New York City

Engaging as expected! Loved the way the details from 1920 were unfolded in the novel. Fun banter and re-blossoming romance between the two main characters.

[DevotedToHope · Rating 4 out of 5]

Break out the jazz records and dust off your best flapper dress—because Rachel Scott McDaniel has spun a tale so dazzling, even Gatsby would be impressed. The Dreams We Knew is a mystery and a moonlit waltz through New York’s glittering elite, complete with speakeasies, whispered secrets, and a gumshoe duo that had me positively enthralled.

Now let’s talk about Kent Brisbane. Someone get this man a fedora and a “Best Detective” trophy because whew. The romance is absolutely captivating, and his backstory? It’s a beautiful reflection of God’s grace and redemption. Twisty, compelling, and packed with just enough brooding to make a girl weak in the knees. And then there’s Delvina—sharp as a stiletto and determined to carve her own destiny in a city that loves a scandal. The chemistry between these two? Let’s just say, if looks could kill, we’d need another detective.

The mystery? Clever, intricate, and keeps the pages flipping faster than a newsie on a deadline. And while the romance had its moments of “why won’t y’all just TALK already,” the payoff was as satisfying as the last bite of a perfectly frosted cake.

If you’re craving a 1920s caper that blends glamour with a touch of grit, all wrapped up in divine timing and grace, The Dreams We Knew is where it's at. And Kent Brisbane? Let’s just say he’s the cat’s pajamas with a heart that shines brighter than any diamond.

I received a digital ARC of this book from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

I. Loved. It.

[JaneReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kent & Delvina were once an item but something happened and they are no longer together. Both are private investigators and while each working their own case they run unexpectedly run into one another and end up having to work together. Will this be the start of a reconciliation for them or will hurts from the past continue to be a wedge between them? When a mutual acquaintance turns up dead they end up working together to figure out what happened because they don't agree with the conclusion the police have reached. This leads them into a larger mystery trying to piece clues together and events have them spending much more time with one another than initially planned. I quickly fell in love with these two and not only did I feel like I was right there with them trying to piece the clues together, I was also rooting for their relationship to be restored. A great romance was interwoven with the mystery. Highly recommend.

[Carolyn Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author for reaching out about this opportunity.

When you forgot to mark a book read because you read a very early copy. But here's my endorsement that you can find in the opening pages of this beautiful story!!

I loved this romantic mystery. The second-chance romance was sweet, and Kent and Delvina's banter and chemistry provided a level of intimacy that allowed them to reconnect and grow together. I loved how the mystery tied in to supply all the answers, even though it kept me guessing until the end. The fast pace made for an engaging read that was full of heart, finding the truth, and falling in love.
-- Cait Goodey, book reviewer on GoodeyReads (@goodeyreads) Published On: 2024-09-11

[RD · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic mystery romance! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, which kept me glued to the pages even as I should’ve been sleeping. The characters are fascinating individuals and the tender relationship between Delvina and Kent is dreamy! The intriguing plot will keep you guessing to the last page.

[Crissy Loughridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this book!! I loved every minute of this story and spent the entire time reading it racing for the finish but also lamenting that the end was coming nearer. You really can't go wrong with a McDaniel book, and this one is no exception. A beautifully told story from beginning to end! HIGHLY recommend!!

[dianas_books_cars_coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delvina Salvastano Kline had a privileged upbringing but also has a murky past. She has come into her own by becoming a private investigator. She's hired to investigate the death of a young model. The investigation teams her up with Kent Brisbane, another PI hired by someone else to look into the death. Delvina has a history with Kent. They were married for a short time, but things didn't work out, but he still has her heart, and it turns out that their divorce was never legal. Can they put their feelings aside and work together to solve the case?

This was my 1st book by this author, but I will definitely be reading more. This story of second chance love and mystery was a good one. I loved the setting of NYC in the 1920s. I also loved getting to know the characters and their back stories. The plot was intriguing and held my attention for the most part. I did find some parts to be a little slow, but it all led up to a great ending. I would most definitely recommend this one to historical fiction readers.

[Heather.loves.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dreams We Knew by: Rachel Scott McDaniel

From chapter one, readers meet a fearless heroine. Despite her own personal scandal, Delvina risks everything to save others. Having been adopted into wealth, the heiress is now front and center of a scandal when it is revealed that her birth father is a notorious crime boss. Undeterred by her label as a misfit, Delvina pursues a career as a private investigator. Set among the roaring 20s, this story delivers a perfect blend of compelling mystery and romantic tension.

Within minutes of meeting Delvina, she has punched a man at a debutante ball and lowered herself from the rooftop into a building on a rescue mission, while wearing heels. Despite all that life had thrown her way, she held her head high. Delvina’s curiosity for life and her fearlessness made her a character I could not help but root for.

Kent Brisbane is such a well developed character. I will remember him for years to come. His story is a testament of human resilience.

This story can be read as a stand alone. However, there are interconnected storylines between Walking on Hidden Wings and The Mobster’s Daughter which made this story so rich and complex. It was such a fun treat as a reader to catch all the ways the stories intersected.

McDaniel manages to nail a perfect balance between fast paced adventure and simmering romance. The story had tons of snappy dialogue. For example:

I invited him over.

When did you arrange this?

This morning while you were committing felonies.

In the name of justice.

Good thing you’re in good graces with the Judge

I could not put this book down. Every layer to this story kept me wanting more. I don’t know how McDaniel manages to outdo herself with each new book but she does.

I am confident this will be a favorite read of the year for me.

All the stars.

I could not love this more if I tried.

[Lindsay Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Jerrica · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Challis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! Absolutely LOVED.

The things that drew me to wanting to read this:
-the era (roaring twenties, I mean, need I say more?)
-PI adventure, especially a female PI (in the twenties! love to see it)
-second-chance romance (swoon)

And I got all that and more reading The Dreams We Knew. Like, I really really liked the way this author wrote the story. I loved how much the flashbacks added to the present day part of the story bit by bit. I loved getting to see both Delvina and Kent's POVs of their personal story and the mystery investigating. Every time I picked this book up, I didn't want to put it down. But alas, life was in the way and I had to take longer to read it than I wanted to.

This was my first novel from Rachel Scott McDaniel and it's not going to be my last. I need more of her writing, the way she tells a story just captivated me from the get go. She adds such incredible detail to every aspect of the story, but without it becoming overwhelming or info-dumpy. I just ate up every sentence and paragraph like I had an endless supply. Plus, I love the author's note at the end where she talks about the historical points that helped influence the story.

I am so very appreciative to the author for allowing me to read an early copy of this book through NetGalley.

[Paula Shreckhise · Rating 5 out of 5]

The press calls them sleuthing sweethearts, but will exes Divina Kline and Kent Brisbane re-tie the knot? I loved the flirty banter between rival private investigators Vinny and Kent, who have unresolved issues in their past.
This story loosely connects to other books by Ms McDaniel, but can be read as a standalone. It was fun to see familiar faces.
The plot was compelling, the mystery intriguing, and the romance was dreamy. I liked the setting of the Roaring Twenties and the unlikely friends that Vinny called on to help her dig into the mysterious circumstances. The family connections were complicated, making them an integral part of the story. The author also educated me about an epidemic of sleeping sickness during the 1920s, another aspect that I appreciated.
This second-chance, romance, with an underlying faith thread, was top-notch, and so enjoyable. Kent was troubled, but swoony, and Vinny was smart crafty, and still smitten with him.
Return to the Roaring Twenties for another epic romance that will keep you guessing.
*A complimentary copy of the book was provided by Kregel through NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*

[Joy Tiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favorite Rachel Scott McDaniel book! I have read and loved all of Rachel’s books but this one is her absolute best. I loved the chemistry and second chance romance for Delvina and Kent. Completely swoon worthy! The mystery elements kept me guessing and the reveals were jaw dropping as the pieces came together and the mysteries were solved. This was a fabulous read for me!

[Andrette Herron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel Scott McDaniel delivers a stellar romantic mystery set in 1920’s New York. This second chance romance grabbed my attention from the very beginning and I did not want to put it down. Delvina finds herself thrown into working with Kent Brisbane - the private detective who trained her, and also the one man who she vowed never to be involved with again. As they work together to solve a murder, they realize there is much more at stake than they ever thought - including their own safety. McDaniel kept me guessing until the very end. I truly loved the relationship between Delvina and Kent - their witty banter and desire to watch out for one another as they worked to unravel the mysteries of this case made for some great interactions. I don’t want to share any spoilers, so I will just say this is a story you don’t want to miss. I received an early copy for review. The comments and opinions expressed are my own.

[Alissa Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Edens Book Den · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last year I read my first book by this author, ‘Walking on Hidden Wings,’ and I instantly fell in love with the main character. She was unique, strong, and defied societal norms at the time being a stunt pilot. It quickly became one of my favorite books of the year.

Naturally I wondered how I’d feel about this latest book. It surpassed all my expectations! The setting transports us to a time period I love reading about, the roaring 20’s, where glamour meets grit.

Delvina ‘Vinnie’ Salvastano Kline is a detective. Despite being a wealthy socialite and heiress to two fortunes, society has ostracized her due to her biological father’s history as a mob boss. Vinnie is unbothered by this and fully embraces her distinctiveness, which is one of the many reasons I adore her character. When Vinnie is hired to locate a kidnapped judge’s daughter, she encounters her husband, Kent Brisbane—or rather, her ex-husband. She hasn’t seen him in four years and after the shock she realizes he’s also been hired for the same rescue mission. From the start, their chemistry is like a dance, hinting at unresolved feelings between them. They join forces again when they are both investigating a suspicious suicide that seems like foul play.

Who can these “sleuthing sweethearts” trust? More importantly, will they learn to trust each other? Their chemistry is electrifying, but is it strong enough to grant them a second chance?

Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York, complete with speakeasies, mobsters, a secret marriage, and several murder mysteries, the novel shines. Yet it’s the relationship between Delvina and Kent that truly makes you fall in love with the author’s writing style. The story is witty, intelligently crafted, fast-paced, and romantic, making it a definite addition to my keeper shelf.

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Angela (justwant_2read) · Rating 5 out of 5]

“And I hate to tell you, but you’ve raided every part of me.”
“This heart no longer beats for me, but for you.”
I could list at least 20 quotes from this book that literally made me melt into a puddle. Oh my gosh, Rachel, you killed it with this book. I absolutely loved the dual timelines, and watching Delvina and Kent fall in love. 😍 🫠

I love how Rachel is able to pack so much into her books- the romance, the emotions, the mystery, and to top it off, it is a closed door, Christian book. It is seriously soo good.

The 1920’s is such a great setting too. I love seeing the advancement of technology, and the rights of women coming along. Watching Delvina overcome her muddy past, and defy watch the socialites deigned appropriate was fantastic. Her work as a private detective is a huge part of this book, and she is so good at it.

The adorable, handsome and intriguing Kent is a new favorite of mine. He is sooo swoony. I am a little obsessed haha he says the perfect things and is willing to work for what he wants, starting from a very young age. He is the best, my friends. A book boyfriend to rival all 😉

This book is available now and is one you do NOT want to miss. It is a standalone, but also comes after Walking on Hidden Wings and crosses over characters. I highly recommend that one as well, and would read it first, but you don’t need to. Thank you to @rachel_scott_mcdaniel and @kregelbooks for the copy of this book. All opinions are my own.