Step into the enchanting world of Nora Roberts’ Dream series, where romance, friendship, and self-discovery intertwine against the breathtaking cliffs of Monterey, California. This captivating romance trilogy follows three women—Margo, Kate, and Laura—raised as sisters in the opulent Templeton House, each chasing dreams that lead to love and transformation. With Roberts’ signature blend of heartfelt storytelling and vivid settings, the Dream series invites readers to fall in love with its compelling characters and their journeys.
Published in the mid-1990s, this trilogy has charmed romance fans with its mix of drama, humor, and heart. Whether you’re a longtime Nora Roberts devotee or new to her work, the Dream series offers a cozy yet thrilling escape into a world of ambition and enduring bonds.
How the Dream Series Began
Nora Roberts, the queen of romance, crafted the Dream series as a celebration of sisterhood and resilience. Inspired by her love for crafting interconnected stories, Roberts set the trilogy in the luxurious Templeton House, a nod to California’s coastal grandeur. Published by Jove Books, the series began with Daring to Dream in 1996, followed by Holding the Dream and Finding the Dream in 1997. Roberts’ goal was to explore how women redefine success and love after setbacks, a theme that resonates throughout her extensive catalog of over 200 novels.
The Heart of the Dream Series
The Dream trilogy comprises three novels, each focusing on one woman’s journey. In Daring to Dream, Margo Sullivan, the housekeeper’s daughter, returns to Templeton House after a modeling career crumbles due to betrayal. Her romance with Josh Templeton sparks as she rebuilds her life through a boutique venture with her friends. Holding the Dream follows Kate Powell, a practical accountant whose career is derailed by a scandal. Her story explores self-worth and love with Byron DeWitt. Finally, Finding the Dream centers on Laura Templeton, a divorced mother recovering from her husband’s infidelity, finding unexpected passion with Michael Fury.
The series weaves themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the power of chosen family. Set against Monterey’s rocky cliffs and Big Sur’s sweeping vistas, Roberts’ prose paints a vivid backdrop that feels like a character itself. Her style—witty dialogue, slow-burn romance, and relatable heroines—makes each book a page-turner. The women’s shared boutique, Pretenses, symbolizes their collective strength, while their personal struggles highlight universal desires for love and purpose.
Why the Dream Series Resonates
The Dream series has left a lasting mark on the romance genre, earning praise for its engaging characters and emotional depth. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon laud its heartwarming plots and Roberts’ ability to balance romance with personal growth. The trilogy’s nominations for RITA Awards in 1997 and 1998 underscore its critical acclaim. Its enduring appeal lies in its portrayal of women overcoming adversity through friendship and love, a message that continues to inspire readers decades later.
Roberts’ knack for crafting relatable yet aspirational heroines has cemented the series as a fan favorite. The Dream trilogy’s blend of glamour, heartbreak, and happy endings makes it a timeless addition to her legacy, inviting new generations to discover its magic.
- Publication Years: 1996–1997
- Number of Books: 3
- Awards: Nominated for RITA Awards (1997, 1998)
- Setting: Monterey and Big Sur, California
Grab Daring to Dream and dive into the Dream series’ world of romance and resilience! Whether you’re lounging by the beach or curled up at home, Margo, Kate, and Laura’s stories will sweep you away.