This week, I came across an old journal where I'd written "future dream man criteria" at age fifteen: tall, kind, rescues people, and makes everyone laugh. I rolled my eyes at teenage-me's optimism—until I remembered that sometimes the most unlikely people surprise us and become exactly what we need. That's the premise of In Your Dreams, a charming small-town romance about discovering that the hero you've been dreaming about has been right there all along.
Plot Summary
In Your Dreams by Kristan Higgins is the fourth book in the Blue Heron series, set in Manningsport, New York. Emmaline Neal, a police officer with a history of childhood bullying and recent heartbreak, needs a date to her ex-fiancé's wedding in California. She turns to Jack Holland, the local golden boy and recent hero who saved a group of teenagers. Jack agrees to help, seeking a distraction from his PTSD and his manipulative ex-wife who wants him back. When their fake-date arrangement turns into something real, both must confront their past wounds and decide if they're brave enough to risk their hearts again.
Why I Love This Book
I love how In Your Dreams handles emotional vulnerability with such tenderness and humor. Emmaline's journey from insecurity to self-acceptance felt real and earned, not rushed. Jack isn't just a handsome hero—he's dealing with genuine trauma and guilt, and I appreciated how Higgins treated his PTSD with respect. The banter is sharp and funny, the small-town setting feels cozy, and the slow-burn romance builds naturally. This isn't a book that relies on drama or miscommunication—it's about two people learning to believe in themselves and each other.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy contemporary romance with emotional depth, small-town settings, fake dating that becomes real, and heroes dealing with real issues, you'll love this story. Fans of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery will find this right up their alley. The book leans sweet rather than steamy—all intimate scenes fade to black. It's perfect for readers who want the emotional payoff of romance without explicit content.
⚠️ Trigger warning: PTSD, trauma from rescue incident, body image issues, past emotional neglect, insecurity, ex-partner manipulation, coma reference.
Tagged As
contemporary romance, small town, Blue Heron series, fake dating, hero with PTSD, childhood trauma, police officer heroine, winery setting, family dynamics, humor, emotional, character-driven, New York, wedding, HEA, moderate steam, series installment, Kristan Higgins
Steam Level
🌶️🌶️ Mild
The book features several intimate scenes that are sensual and emotionally connected. The steam builds naturally as their fake relationship becomes real. The focus is on emotional intimacy and healing, with moderate explicit content that serves the relationship.
