A lusty and romantic kiss turns sour and dilemmas ensue when would-be lovebirds discover they are soon-to-be stepsiblings in Tessa Bailey’s Dream Girl Drama.
When his old but usually dependable truck breaks down at an exclusive Connecticut country club, two-time NHL All-Star Sig Gauthier is rescued by the stunning Chloe Clifford, who lets him into the club so he can call a tow truck. Captivated by the quick-witted beauty, he steals a kiss before continuing his journey to visit his father, who is preparing to marry yet another wealthy socialite. But upon meeting his father’s new fiancée, Sig is stunned to discover that she is none other than Chloe’s mother. How will Sig navigate his overwhelming attraction and desire for his dream girl, without them becoming kissing stepsiblings?
The third entry in Bailey’s Big Shots sports romance series, Dream Girl Drama combines humor and heartfelt moments, exploring its nuanced protagonists through their endearing interactions. Sig is an intriguing blend of organic, rough-and-tumble masculinity and gentlemanly protectiveness. Bright, sweet and four years his junior, the 25-year-old Chloe lacks practical life skills thanks to living in the lap of luxury with her mother, yet she dreams of making her own way and studying music at the Boston Conservatory.
Although the narrative makes it clear that there is nothing technically wrong with adult stepsiblings dating and embarking on lustful encounters, Sig and Chloe’s parents, as well as Chloe’s mentor, aren’t on board with the unconventional relationship. Some readers may find it frustrating that the obstacles to the couple’s potential romance are often self-imposed and exaggerated, but Dream Girl Drama delivers a poignant look at two people striving to be the best version of themselves, both individually and in regard to their budding relationship, despite feeling unable to act on their true emotions. However, the shifting tone between the sweet and sensual moments can be abrupt. Sig’s voice is especially inconsistent: at times refined, but then transitioning to descriptors laden with f-bombs. That said, both characters’ internal battle to navigate the delicate line between friendship and romance heightens the tension, adding drama to their authentic and genuine dynamic.
A warm, comedic romance that challenges convention and explores self-imposed boundaries, Dream Girl Drama is a treat for fans of forbidden love stories like Bailey’s previous novel, The Au Pair Affair, and The Off-Limits Rule by Sarah Adams.
