DREAM LAKE is written in parallel to the other books in the series. We as readers were already aware of the problems that Alex is facing -- his recent divorce has caused him to become a heavy drinker. However, in this book, we see this in a much brighter light. Alex isn't your charming hero. He's dark, and brooding and a mean bastard a lot of the time. But when he is with Zoe, some of that changes a little.

Zoe Hoffman is an excellent cook. Her magic lies in the food that she is able to prepare, but even her dishes aren't enough to thaw the iciness from Alex Nolan. In time, she does get past his barriers and sees another side of him that is capable of being loved again. As Alex tries to veer his life back on track, Zoe is there to assist him and comfort him when he thinks he is failing.

I felt that Zoe and Alex were a great match for one another. Though they bicker with one another often, it shows people how willing they were to deal with one another even though they are difficult. I find it more interesting to have a couple work at being in a relationship than reading about one that falls so easily into place.

Zoe and Alex are great, but there is another major character in this book that really made me enjoy this one. Alex makes a new friend in a fighter pilot ghost. Without any real explanation, this mysterious ghost can only be seen by Alex and he is tethered to him like a dog leashed by its owner. As we try to figure out who exactly he is, readers are also exposed to his wit and his heartbreak. There were several times in this book where I teared up because of his story. It's sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. But in the end, it shows of the magical power of love. While I have read some contemporaries with a ghost involved, I think Kleypas did a stellar job of incorporating the paranormal element without making it too cliched or corny. The ghost made this book a better one in my opinion.

Kleypas is a master storyteller and in DREAM LAKE, she showcases her talent. Falling in love is easy when you have as excellent a writer as Kleypas penning works of art.

Book Summary