The Dream You Make

by Christine Nolfi

Each day Annie McDaniel’s dream of a brighter future slips further away. After her nephew’s world is destroyed in a burst of gunfire, Annie receives temporary custody of five-year-old Dillon. Now the greenhouse she managed with her late father isn’t bringing in enough money. If she doesn’t get her financial house in order, a judge will allow a couple in Baltimore to adopt Dillon—and remove him from her life forever. When Annie takes a second job at Rowe Marketing, the instant attraction she shares with Michael Rowe is a circumstance she can’t risk. But should she walk away from a love sure to last a lifetime?

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Drama, Womens Fiction

330 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 13, 2013

About the author

Christine Nolfi is the award-winning and bestselling author of seventeen novels. Look for her 2025 release, The Secret Library of Hanna Reeves.

Other works include her 2024 release A Heart Like Home; A Brighter Flame, selected by She Reads as a best book club pick and The Passing Storm, cited by Publishers Weekly as “Tautly plotted, expertly characterized, and genuinely riveting” and gold medal winner in general fiction, International Book Awards.

Earlier works include The Road She Left Behind, a top book club pick by Working Mother and Parade magazines; the award-winning Sweet Lake Series: Sweet Lake, The Comfort of Secrets, and The Season of Silver Linings; Second Chance Grill, highly recommended by The Midwest Book Review and Treasure Me, recognized by the Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge was cited by The Midwest Book Review as “Poignant and powerful, as much a saga of learning to survive, heal, and forgive as it is a chilling crime story, unforgettable to the very end.”

A native of Ohio, Christine now resides in South Carolina with her husband.

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know how you see some reviews and there is a blurb in it that goes something like "this book was provided to me free of cost for purpose of review." Well, I'm going to give you a full disclosure with my review to. This author did contact me and ask for a review but, due to some technical snafoos, I ended up purchasing this book and you know what? I didn't care and I will purchase anything that this author lends her name to. I felt that way before I started this book and I feel that way even more so now after reading this book.

I have read all of Ms. Nolfi's books and I would consider myself a fan. She somehow has the ability to reach through my ereader and get into my heart in a way that I think my therapist even would appreciate. She represents family and the importance of it. She makes statements about how hard it is for people today with insurance costs without making the book a political statement. I hate to go on singing praises but I am nothing if not honest. Trust me.

This author makes me fall in love with every character. In her "Second Chance Grill" books, there is Theodora and in this book for me the characters of Miriam and Lisbon just really stand out and make me wish I had them in my life. I loved the spunk and loveable teasing that goes on between all the characters. I want to sit down with the main characters in Dream and tell them my childhood issues and reassure them that they can work it out and make it okay and how important it is to work at that. I believe the story even though sometimes things that happened wouldn't necessarily be the way my life would go with Murphy's Law and all that. But you know what? Ms. Nolfi makes me believe that these things CAN happen and DO happen and that means a lot because it brings hope to one's life.

I never like to give a long repeat of what other reviews do and describe the book. You can get that from them. I just like to tell you how this book makes me feel because after all, isn't that why we read? To gain a feeling of some sort? I can tell you that this book brings out all sorts of feelings, the main one, as I said, being hope. So thank you Christine. Thank you for making that happen for me. If you reader are on a fence about reading this book or not, I cannot recommend it enough. It has loveable characters, is quickly read, is an absolute charming story and again, gives a romantic heart hope. If this is your first Nolfi book, go get the others. They will charm you equally as much. If you are like me and love this author and all that she stands for, get behind me in the long line. What's next Christine? I need more!

[Caren ~ the misfit geek · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is charming and heartwarming. Without fail, I have enjoyed every one of Nolfi’s novels. This is perhaps my favorite. I was immediately pulled in and became attached to the characters very quickly. I laughed, I cried, and I got frustrated. I didn’t want it to end.

The characters are splendidly developed. They are complex and relatable. At times they frustrated me but they persevered and that is what makes them so special. It is enjoyable watching them change during the course of the story. In particular, I loved watching Dillon flourish under Annie’s care. She sure wasn’t perfect but she really didn’t need to be. Of course, there is an entire supporting cast of quirky characters that infused Nolfi’s trademark humor into the story. It just wouldn’t be the same without them.

I highly recommend reading this book. Just read it because you want a great summer read. My overall rating is 4.5 stars. Another hit from one of my favorite authors.

[Lyn (Readinghearts) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dream You Make by Christine Nolfi is more than just a romance story. Yes there is the traditional boy meets girl, push and pull, and eventual giving in of the traditional romance. There is also, however, the story of Annie and Dillon, her 5-year-old nephew which she has temporary custody of.

Annie's life has not always been easy. Her mother died when she was quite young, and growing up, her father seemed to be more focused on the life and problems of her older sister. After her father dies and her sister is brutally murdered, she finds herself both trying to keep the greenhouse business that her father built alive and to be a mother to Dillon, the 5-year-old son that her sister left behind. Needing extra cash and benefits for Dillon's care, Annie takes a job at a local marketing firm. Into her life waltzes Micheal Rowe, owner and CEO of said firm, and well, you can probably guess where it goes from there.

As far as the romance side of this story goes, Christine Nolfi is a top notch author. She has filled this book with just the right amount of chemistry between the main characters. There is just the right amount of push and pull, attraction and barriers, to keep even the most ardent romance readers happy. In addition, there are the requisite secrets that indicate the characters inability to just trust each other and the ultimate chipping away at each others defenses that make the modern romance story what it is. There are also a host of helpful, and unhelpful, supporting characters that are interesting, not juts because they have an affect on the romance of the main characters, but also in their own right. There were several of them who were interesting enough that I would have gladly read a whole book about them. In short, as a romance, this story delivers it all in spades.

What was equally, or maybe even more, intriguing to me was Annie and Dillon's story. Dillon's character, and his predicament, really tugged on my heartstrings, as did Annie's quest to provide for him and keep him with her. Alternately, I also felt sorry for the couple who were trying to adopt Dillon. Their lives weren't easy either, and I could truly feel their pain and confusion as well as Annie's and Dillon's. While the romance part of the story made me smile, and eventually feel happy and satisfied, this part of the story made me cry. It also really brought home to me that there is no "right" answer in custody battles. I In the end, I was thankful to Christine by giving me a glimpse, even if it was a little one, into the lives of those that are fighting to keep the ones that they love.

In the end, though, what I felt was that Christine really got it right. The two parts of the story combined to give it the right amount of good emotions, while still giving me something to think about. That is not necessarily the case in all romance books, and I really love it when it occurs. I am looking forward to reading more of Christine's books as I get the chance and would like to thank The Sisterhood of the Traveling Book for introducing me to Christine and her work. Great job with this one, Christine!

[Sharon Sawtell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.


This is the 1st book I have read of Christine's and I must say I loved it.


From the 1st page I was sucked into the lives of Annie, Dillion and Micheal, Some parts had me yelling at my ereader, some had my crying and really said and some had me laughing so much i had tears in my eyes.

Must say I have a bit of a book hang over, still thinking about it a few hours after finishing it

I really recomend this book to anyone.

[Elyse Walters · Rating 5 out of 5]

WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!!


I couldn't read it fast enough --I enjoyed EVERY minute of this book!


SECRET: (or NO secret).....I have loved EVERY book by Christine Nolfi!!!

and......

THIS book could not have been read (by me) at a better time! It was the PERFECT book for me to have just read! (personal on many accounts). Its all I want to say! (sorry).....
Some books are just 'personal-to-our-soul'!

Thanks, Christine!

[Marcy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author provided me with a copy of this book for an honest review.

News flash--if you haven't read Nolfi, you're missing out.

Yet another wonderful story by Ms. Nolfi. I cannot begin to articulate how grateful I am to have been introduced to this author's work just last year. I encourage every reader looking for a realistic and heartwarming read to give Christine Nolfi a try...you will not be disappointed. If you're from and/or adore the South, you're bound to love the southern charm woven throughout each of Nolfi's novels.

The Dream You Make hit close to home with me, as my family recently went through a similar custody situation which Annie and Dillon find themselves in. I know firsthand that helpless feeling when the fate of a child lies in the hands of a judge...a judge who can make the decision for that child to be ripped from your life forever. As a result, I connected with Annie immediately and sympathized with her when the Englands tried to say that Annie was negligent in regard to Dillon's well-being in the past. I don't know how Nolfi manages to capture all the emotions involved in such a situation and put them into words, but she does, and she does it exceedingly well. She simply leaves me in awe with her spot-on descriptions and portrayals.

The romance in this novel was what kept me reading. I loved the spunk in these two characters, and the way Michael subconsciously followed Annie around the office was just too sweet for words. Their tiffs seemed a little far-fetched at times, as well as Michael's random disappearances (how juvenile), but it kept me anxiously guessing how they were going to reconcile.

I came very close to giving The Dream You Make five stars, but a small voice in my head made me decide on four stars. Not that Nolfi and her exquisite writing were lacking in any way--I just would have liked for a few things to have happened differently, I suppose. I wish that Miriam had served the role as matchmaker as opposed to Isabel. Miriam has a background with both Michael and Annie, so I feel like this would have added a little more sentimental value to the reconciliation. I get that Michael needed Isabel for the career-minded persona connection...I see where she fits into the story. I just feel that Miriam was so assertive throughout the book EXCEPT where I needed her most to be...in getting the two lovebirds together HERSELF.

My main issue with this story is the ending. Perhaps my love for Nolfi's writing is so large that I simply wasn't ready for it to end, but I felt like the ending was abrupt. I was pleasantly surprised with Annie's declaration which doubled as the book's conclusion, but I was certainly left wanting more. Also, my conservative Southern upbringing has me questioning Annie's willingness to stay overnight at Michael's WITH Dillon. This is certainly realistic and a common occurrence in today's world, but I didn't feel that it necessarily jived with Annie's strictly-by-the-book behavior in regard to Dillon in the rest of the book. Yes, the adoption was over and he was HERS now, but he still needs to heal and see the psychologist, etc...so an overnight stay at Michael's doesn't seem like a realistic choice for someone in Annie's position. It was a nice and tidy way to end this novel, though, so I understand why it was written this way. I just wish maybe there could have been a jump forward in time where this scene took place AFTER they were married and maybe we could see how well Dillon had adjusted to his new life.

I may have picked apart some small issues a bit too much, so don't mistake my rambling...you absolutely cannot go wrong with anything written by this author. I love everything she has to offer to her readers and I am always anxiously waiting for her newest published work! The entertainment I get from reading Nolfi is priceless, and I take advantage of every opportunity to share her work with others.

[Casee Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christine Nolfi made me an instant fan of her writing with her 2011 debut, Treasure Me, and I continue to look forward to her books with anticipation. Her fourth release, The Dream You Make, is the story of Annie McDaniel, a determined woman trying to stay positive in the face of troubling situations. Annie’s family life has been no walk in the park: her mother gone too soon, her father recently deceased, and her sister Toria a victim of a tragic crime. In the midst of her loss, Annie has been made the beneficiary of two most unexpected treasures: Green Interiors, the greenhouse that was her father’s life work – and Dillon, Toria’s five year-old son. Annie falls head-over-heels for Dillon as she gets to know him for the first time, but she’ll have to fight a draining custody battle against a well-off couple from Dillon’s past before she can truly call him her own. In her efforts to keep Dillon, Annie takes on a second job at Rowe Marketing where she finds an entirely new complication in the attractive and stubborn Michael Rowe. If she pursues her attraction to her new boss it could hinder her chances of adopting Dillon, but Michael could also prove to be a sound and stable port in the storm of her life.

The Dream You Make is a honeyed combination of love, humor and real-world poignancy that fills the reader with the butterfly-inducing beauty of life. Those of us who’ve been reading Nolfi’s books from the beginning feel an unspoken guarantee that we’ll find a world of charm, humor and joy between the pages and this novel follows through on that promise solidly. Books don’t often grab me from the literal beginning, the very first scene, but The Dream You Make felt familiar and comfortable as soon as I fell into its world. The story deals with adoption, a topic Nolfi exposed deep passion for and talent with in her second book, The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge, and she handles it here with the same very real finesse, but with less heaviness. It keeps the novel feeling light and makes it a great counterpart to Tree, showing the same expanse of Nolfi’s talent for writing about the heart of family in an entirely different way.

Another of the novel’s great accomplishments is the lively cast of characters; Nolfi is a definite master at crafting a host of memorable characters to color the reader’s world, and she exercises that ability very well in The Dream You Make. Some, like the adorable Dillon, are studies in sensitivity and hope. An altogether shattered boy, seeing him come to life under Annie’s guardianship – and in his interactions with best friend Chip and kindly neighbor Mariam – is perfectly heartwarming. Other characters, such as Rowe Marketing’s flamboyant and temperamental artist Terence, are a canvas for hilarity and theatrics. Annie and Michael, the grown-up portion of the novel’s primary focus, have an instant chemistry that captured my interest from the beginning. Their faults – one’s inability to open up, another’s hot impatience – set them on a long journey toward ironing out their budding romance, but their utterly human imperfections kept me rooting for them.

This novel felt more simplistic in story than Nolfi’s previous works, which have included books that interweave dark tragedy, cozy mystery, and treasure hunts woven through American history. All the same, there was nothing lacking in this story. Nolfi’s books have a way of evading definition; she writes so broadly across the genres that her books have created a niche all their own, and The Dream You Make fits in perfectly. It’s a life-affirming story that bursts with hope and dares the reader to relentlessly pursue their own dreams.

(Review © Casee Marie, originally published on June 26, 2013 at LiteraryInklings.com. I received a copy of the book for the purpose of review.)

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christine Nolfi has done it again. The Dream You Make is a wonderful story.
Anne is trying to adopt her nephew, Dillon, after her sister is murdered. Her father died and she is trying to keep his Greenhouse running and has to get another job to make ends meet. She has to prove that she is capable of raising Dillon or she could lose him to a couple in Baltimore, that knew him before her sister was murdered. They are doing everything in their power to get him and have the money to do just that and Anne would never see him again.
Anne gets the second job as a computer specialist working for Michael Rowe who owes one of the most powerful companies around. When Anne gets the job things start to heat up between her and Michael.
But Anne does not tell him anything about her private life, especially Dillon and Michael has secrets of his own which of course cause them to have big problems in their private and work lives.
Will Anne win custody of the nephew she considers her son and loves more than life itself? Will Michael get over his past losses and give in to the feelings he has for Anne and Dillon? Will they work things out and have the love that they all need and want so bad? Or will the England's get custody of Dillon and keep him from Anne forever? You will have to read this book to find out. I can't give anything away. But will say this book is a wonderfully done story and kept me wanting to find out what was going to happen from the first page. I loved it and thought it was a definite 5 star story. If you love a good clean love story with lots of twists and turns and up and downs you have to read this one. Christine has a way of telling a story that keeps you wanting more...

[Sarah Houldcroft · Rating 4 out of 5]

I downloaded a Kindle version of The Dream You Make after linking up with Christine Nolfi on Twitter. I read the first few pages on the Amazon Look Inside and decided I wanted to read the rest.

What drew me to this book in the first place was the female lead character, Annie, who not only runs her late father's horticultural business, but is also a bit of a computer nerd. Very refreshing to read a book where the female lead is crawling under desks and fixing hardware problems that no one else in her place of work can do! A bit of girl power there, I think. Being rather computer obsessed myself, I felt I could identify somewhat with Annie.

For me though, the most important element of this book was the relationship between Annie and her nephew, how that develops and the ongoing custody battle. It would appear from reading the author's bio that she has some knowledge of adoption too and has used this knowledge to her advantage in the writing of The Dream You Make.

There is a great secondary character called Miriam, who is not only Annie’s close neighbour and friend, but also works in the same company. She is the PA to Annie's boss Michael Rowe. There is something amusingly familiar about Miriam and her role within the company – there are a great many firms who will have such a character as their ‘Gatekeeper’. I certainly, felt as if I had met Miriam in the past.

This book is about more than one love story though and without wanting to spoil the ending too much, it does have its ups and downs - some you expect and some you don't which makes for a good mix and keeps the reader on her toes.

Interwoven with humour as well as tears this book is a must for all romantics.

This review will be posted on Amazon too.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Complex relationships

Annie McDaniel is in her thirties – owns and manages Green Interiors, a greenhouse – acting like a teenager at times, in other respects, an intelligent business woman. Michael Rowe is in his thirties - owns and manages Rowe Marketing, a successful marketing firm – acting like a brute at times, in other respects, a caring and generous boss. When the two meet, during Annie’s interview to work at Rowe’s Marketing Firm, there is an immediate attraction.

Annie tries to keep her personal life from her boss, Michael Rowe. Any relationship would jeopardize her chances of gaining custody of her nephew. The secrecy drives Michael crazy, and his way of handling bad situations is to pack up and leave.

While Annie reciprocates Michael’s love, she must put her nephew first, which creates feelings of angst in the relationship.

During most of the story, I couldn’t stand Michael, but I grew to understand and love the guy. The same could be said for Annie, at times, her behavior drove me nuts. Their relationship was complex and is thought provoking – do I judge people too quickly, too harsh – do I give people a chance?

The Dream You Make is all about second and even third chances. Both Annie and Michael forgave each other many times for a chance of happiness.

While I enjoyed the story, I agreed with a remark made by Michael, during a usual work day, “Damn it! I’m sick and tired of the theatrics!”

Understanding the first section of chapter one served as an introduction, the information was more enjoyable when it was integrated afterward and into the first chapters.

The Dream You Make by Christine Nolfi gives hope to all relationships.

[Obsession Is A Book - Terrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
When I first got this book I expected a boy meets girl, they fall in love, they have issues, issues are resolved and they all live happily ever after. In part yes this is what the book delivers, however, the issues presented in the book are heart wrenching.
This is a story of a woman who has had a life of hard knocks and keeps going. The latest curve ball is when her estranged older sister is violently murdered leaving behind a 5 year old boy called Dillon.
Dillon hasn’t had an easy start to life and Annie finds it difficult to change from being a single woman struggling to keep her father’s legacy, to becoming a Mum to an emotionally challenged 5 year old. Throw in a very expensive custody battle and Annie has her hands full.
To enable her to help in her fight for custody Annie takes a 2nd job at Rowe Marketing. Enter Michael Rowe. Michael has his own past and his ability to deal with emotional issues leave a lot to be desired.
Although Dillon doesn’t have his own POV in the book, I shed a few tears for him.
Michael and Annie were such frustrating characters, at times I wanted to reach into the book and shake some sense into them.
The book is described as:
Fresh, heartwarming and inspiring, The Dream You Make reveals that hope always carries the promise of new beginnings.
I honestly can’t disagree.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dream You Make is another hard to put down book by Christine Nolfi! It is an inspiring book about dreams and new beginnings.

It has laugh out loud humor from the wacky characters where Annie works. Annie at times really irritated me with her tendency to be afraid to tell Michael of what was going on in her life. And Michael could be so rude and what seemed like unfeeling in the beginning. Luckily by the end of the book, I no longer wanted to scream at the two of them to get it together! I actually liked them both. It just took awhile.:)

Now I must mention my very favorite character of all, sweet little Dillon. At the end of the 5th chapter, when something Dillon says causes tears to spring to Annie's eyes, my eyes were leaking too! Maybe I'm partial to little boys, but I loved this character over everyone.

This was a very well written book made all the better by the complex characters. It was a very enjoyable read. I would like to see a sequel so we can follow more of their dreams.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for both heart wrenching and heart warming moments. Oh, and don't forget the romance!

The author gave me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Meg - A Bookish Affair · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Dream You Make" is yet another book by Christine Nolfi. I've read a couple of her other books but let me tell you right off the bat, this book is my favorite book. It's a heartwarming romance with a great back story that makes the story feel really full.

This book has a lot of the elements that I've really enjoyed in Nolfi's other books. This book like the other ones was just a really warm story. This is exactly the kind of book that you read when you want the warm fuzzies. It's filled with characters that you want to know and that you will want to pull for throughout the book.

I loved the story of Annie trying to get custody of her late sister's little son, Dillon. I really felt for their situation. This is definitely one situation where you're pulling for the characters. You just want that poor little boy to have a really good place to call home.

This book is definitely also a romance. Some of Nolfi's other books definitely have romantic elements to them, which I really enjoyed. This one was no different.I really liked the romance in the story between Annie and Michael. I was also pulling for them throughout the entire book.

This book is great when you're looking for a heartwarming story to relax with!

[Tara Broadwater · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for an honest review, and honestly if I could I would have given it one million stars. The story is absolutely amazing, the plot is easily understood and followed, and of course the characters are completely lovable. Ita funny, heart wrenching and utterly impossible to put down :)


Annie is a typical working class woman, whom like myself doesn't feel comfortable accepting help.

Michael is a millionaire but not one of the "in your face" flashy ones. Hes totally down to earth which makes him even more relatable.

Dillon is, well.... Dillon. A typical 5 year old boy with tantrums, an infinite amount of love, and a heart the size of a giraffe.


"What? Are you packing a gun and panty hose? Relax."

Try it I promise you will ENJOY it :D

[Deborah Blanchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was wonderful. I absolutely loved the characters and how they interacted with each other throughout the story in a very cohesive way. The story flowed like an exquisite flower down a winding river. The main characters, Annie and Michael, had their ups and downs, but that is real life. Love can make your dreams come true, even when sometimes you don't believe it.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great story, with wonderful characters, a great storyline and wonderful writing. What an amazing romantic novel! I just loved it! I can't wait to read all other books written by Christine Nolfi. Absolutely fabulous book! Read it ,love it, I know I did!

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a heartwarming & enjoyable read. This book was totally fabulous. It was so inspiring.

I've read two of this authors books & both I totally enjoyed. I'm so looking forward to reading more books from this author as her books are fantastic. She has now been added to my favourite authors.
I happily received this book in return for an honest review.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great stand-alone read from Christine Nolfi. As with her other books, The Dream You Make is laden with well-developed but lighter, personable characters and a pretty heartwarming storyline that ties up with a red ribbon. As her books are out of the typical genres I read; I must admit that I enjoy Ms. Nolfi's books when I am looking for a break from heavier reading.

[Melodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christine, you have hit it out of the park again! This story rang true on all levels for me.The detailing of the adoption process was handled authentically. The family and romantic conflicts were believable. The secondary characters were delightful and the story moved at a pace that kept me reading when I should have been sleeping or being "productive".

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very hard book to put down. it will grab you from the very beginning and you will hate to see it end. It will make you laugh, cry and even yell at the characters. What a great cast of characters that work so well together. A very well written book by Christine Nolfi. I have loved all of Christine's books I have read and look forward to reading many more.

[Wendy T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I loved the main character Annie and how she worked hard and never gave up on her dreams. This story made me laugh out loud and cry, but at the end of the book it made me smile.

[Frederick Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the real strengths of this story is the realistic feel of the adoption battle. From her bio I know that the author adopted children herself, and so she knows all the ins and outs of the process as well as all the emotional ups and downs that go with it. I loved learning about it.

Reading The Dream You Make, I soon discovered it’s one of those books where you need to prepare your tissues in advance. Annie McDaniel is struggling to find happiness in a world where she’s lost most of her family -- her sister, mother and father. When Annie’s sister is murdered, Annie is given temporary custody of her orphaned son, Dillon. 5-year-old Dillon quickly wins Annie’s heart, and she realizes that her happiness depends on finding a way to keep him.

Umpteen obstacles fall in Annie’s way, sort of like life itself. The Baltimore couple vying for custody of Dillon have a legitimate claim on him and they have money – loads of it. For Annie, money is a big problem. The greenhouse and nursery her father left her when he died barely scrapes through, and she can’t pay her own bills let alone Dillon’s dental work and the child psychologist. Annie’s best friend counsels her to apply for a job as IT specialist at the marketing firm where she works, where she will earn a good salary and get benefits.

Computers? Besides being heart-stoppingly beautiful and extremely intelligent, Annie is a self-taught computer expert. Having been dismissed from her interview by the moody, sultry big boss, Michael Rowe, she is accosted on the way out by the desperate computer department intern, who begs her to stay and fix the problems. An hour later, with the computers humming along again, Annie is hired on the spot, and her money problems seem to be on the way to being solved.

Flamboyant lead artist Terrance, with rings on every finger and tantrums every time the computer crashes ... weak-stomach Bill, the leader copy writer, whose stomach churns at the first sign of confrontation ... another great strength of The Dream You Make is the colorful group of people Annie works with in this office. Throw in company owner and CEO Michael Rowe, a tall, dark-haired 36-year-old who happens to be single AND have a floppy-eared irresistible dog, and you’re beginning to see why this book is a real page turner.

Built-in elements of romance novels made certain plot elements predictable – like the budding and then unstoppable fire between Annie and Michael. But I absolutely had to know how they would get around the rules. It all makes for a gorgeous interlude in the lives of some unforgettable characters. The shattering ending was a complete surprise. The Dream You Make is a triumph of hope, love and redemption.

[Debbie Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I downloaded this book when it was on a free offer to serve as light reading when I needed something undemanding in which to lose myself for a break. I'd assumed from the pink cover that it would be a frothy romance - not my genre of choice, but hey, it was free and looked pretty on the screen.

Over the bank holiday weekend from reading heavier, more serious books, I turned to this one, and was instantly engaged by the opening chapter which paints an amusing portrait of life in an advertising agency. I've worked in one of these myself years ago, and it brought back entertaining memories with its cast of eccentric creative types and bossy secretaries who keep the crazies in check. As to the lead characters, Annie and Michael, plus Annie's estranged small nephew whom she's hoping to adopt, I took to them straight away as rounded, intelligent characters, each with an interesting and considered back story. Although I was certain that the ending would be happy, I couldn't put the book down until I found out for sure.

The settings and the characters are effectively painted, and as believable as their dilemmas. Adoption processes in the US are different from where I live in the UK, but even so this was a compelling storyline, cleverly told so that one empathised with all parties. Not for a nanosecond does the book ever become preachy or self-righteous, but even so it struck me that it imparts quietly memorable life lessons. Anyone affected by family conflict and estrangements might well be persuaded to reconsider their position after reading this book, so, light as it is on the surface, it's also potentially life-changing. That's quite an achievement.

The writing is slick, competent and intelligent, never falling into the formulaic or cliched writing adopted by some romance books. A great read with a feel-good factor that remained with me long after I'd finished the rewarding last page.

I'll definitely be reading more by this author, whatever her book covers are like!

[Gigi Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each day Annie McDaniel’s dream of a brighter future slips further away.

After her nephew’s world is destroyed in a burst of gunfire, Annie receives temporary custody of five-year-old Dillon. Now the greenhouse she managed with her late father isn’t bringing in enough money. If she doesn’t get her financial house in order, a judge will allow a couple in Baltimore to adopt Dillon—and remove him from her life forever.

Desperate, she takes on a second job at Rowe Marketing. The instant attraction she shares with Michael Rowe is a circumstance Annie can’t risk. But should she walk away from a love sure to last a lifetime?

Fresh, heartwarming and inspiring, The Dream You Make reveals that hope always carries the promise of new beginnings.

My Thoughts...

I was drawn into the story right from the first sentence, the more I read of the story the more I liked it. There were quirky characters, but more than that the story had a depth that made it more than a romance novel.

This was a heartwarming, fun, emotional, yes a few tears came to my eyes once or twice, but a few times I found myself laughing out loud as I read this book.

This was the first book I've read by Christine, and I must say it kept me reading into the wee small hours of the morning. (Well, having insomnia helped ; ) Therefore, I guess I could say this book helped me make it through the night. That being said, it was still a page turner for me. I really did struggle putting it down once I started reading it.

I liked it so much I awarded it 4****. Thanks to the author, Christine Nolfi, for alerting me to your book, otherwise I never would have found it.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading and reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers and authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review.

[Laurel-Rain · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Annie McDaniel takes a second job at Rowe Marketing as a computer specialist, she hopes that the extra income and benefits will help fund her dream to adopt her nephew Dillon.

After her troubled sister Toria was murdered, she made a home for five-year-old Dillon, and has willingly faced the challenges of helping Dillon adjust to the loss and the traumatic events of his childhood years.


But now another family, the wealthy Englands, are fighting for custody, and have no trouble using their vast resources to make that happen.

At her new job, Annie faces still more challenges as she works with her boss Michael. He has had his own troubles and is difficult and brusque, sometimes even surly. Beneath their difficult relationship is a growing and intense attraction. But Annie knows she must fight it...she has too much to lose, and cannot risk anything messing up her goal of adoption.

Michael's own problematic first marriage has made him relationship phobic as well.

What will the two of them face in the months ahead? Can they set aside their growing desires for Dillon's sake? And, in the end, can they realize that joining forces might be just the thing they all need?

I couldn't stop turning the pages, as the custody battle heated up and as the dynamics shifted dramatically between Annie, Michael, and Dillon. Sometimes when a dream is just within your grasp, you discover other unexpected obstacles. Will Annie and Michael find their way?

An emotional, yet feel-good story of making your own dreams possible, "The Dream You Make" is one I would recommend for all who enjoy stories about relationships, challenges, and a happily-ever-after that comes despite the numerous obstacles along the way. 4.5 stars.

[ReadAlongWithSue ★⋆. ࿐࿔catching up · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know this is going to make me sound a bit flacky lol but I do like my covers for books. I've read seriously and by choice since the age of 16 [many moons ago now!] and always been attracted by the front cover before anything else. I'm not that empty headed that I don't look at the blurb of a book as well, but I'm talking initially, and Christine is one of the authors that brings the cover to your eyes, you just have to pick it up and see what's inside. I've read 2 of her novels now, and this read has made me realize, I am sure she things long and hard about the cover of the book, because it always seems to tie in with the story.

I'm not going to give too much away on this book, just that YOU HAVE TO READ IT!!! I'm connected the mental health sector because my husband has the illness called Bi Polar [used to be known as 'manic depression'] In this storyline, the main characters sister [unbeknown to her] was a sufferer.

A little child's involved.
Custody battle.
Love.
Business.
Secrets.

I loved it, I really LOVED it. I can't say enough about this book, Christine has a way of writing that for me, draws me into the read, into the pages that I hear nothing of what's going on around me. I got so focused inside this story, I was actually living in it, You know those type of films? you get so involved you are shouting at the TV screen? well, this is one of them, hankies at the ready, for sadness and glee.

This book was giving to me as an ARC for an honest and open review

[Karla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Christine Nolfi's writing style. So pure and a pleasure to read. I have read several of her books, and The Dream You Make is my favorite so far. I totally fell in love with Annie. She has what my Mom would call "personality-plus"! I could hear her voice and picture her through this book like a movie. (Speaking of movies, this book would make a great one!) I laughed when she showed her spunky side at work with her co-workers, empathized with her having to live on a shoestring, grieved her family history, was moved to tears by her growing relationship with and custody fight for her orphaned nephew Dillon, loved her best friendship with Miriam and, of course, rooted and wooted for Michael. Michael, Michael, Michael. Exceptionally generous, executive boss extraordinaire. Broken by his first marriage. Bowled over by Annie, but didn't know how complicated her life was and Annie wasn't good at divulging secrets. There were so many wonderful secondary characters in this story. They each played an important role. I particularly loved the employees of Michael's firm, a colorful and wacky crew whose antics caused me to literally cry with laughter. This book is a romance, but at its heart is the contested adoption of a scarred little boy whose drug-addicted mother was murdered. The author pulls no punches, but handles the issue with grace and aplomb. I highly recommend this book - I could not put it down. My new 2014 goal is to read all of Christine Nofli's books!

[Glenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annie McDaniel receives temporary custody of her estranged sister's son, five-year-old Dillon after her sister is brutally murdered. The greenhouse she manages doesn't bring in enough money for her to get Dillon the counseling he needs. She takes a second job at Rowe Marketing and finds herself falling for her boss. Anne feels having a relationship may jeopardize her custody battle. But can she walk away from a love that may last a lifetime?

This was a quick and enjoyable read. I admired Annie for all her hard work with Dillon and her willingness to forge a relationship with him, be his mommy and give him a normal life. She frustrated me when she refused to tell Michael about Dillon and tried to keep it all a secret. It would have been so much better if she would have been honest from the start. I also felt the drama at the marketing firm was a little overdone. The actions of some of the employees made me wonder why Michael put up with that kind of behavior from them. It was also a little too convenient how Annie got the job in the first place. Would that really happen? The ending was a little predictable, but made for a happy ending.
Recommended for anyone who likes a feel good story.


I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first experience with Christine Nolfi was "Second Chance Grill". Having read and enjoyed that book so much I was excited to dive in to "The Dream You Make". This book did not disappoint! The characters were wonderful, honestly written and easy to relate to. Many times the women in portrayed in this genre are helpless, shallow, and lacking self awareness. Annie, however, is fabulously independent and unwilling to sacrifice herself and her needs to please others.

I felt like I became attached to these characters and wanted to know so badly what happened to them that I finished the book in just a few days. I even found myself reading on my phone to sneak in a few more pages. My sincere hope is that there will be a second book with these characters so that I can continue to follow them on their journey.

Anyone who likes Debbie Macomber, Cathy Lamb, or Meg Cabbot will likey enjoy Christine Nolfi as well. I would absolutely recommend this book as an easy summer read!

[Angel **Book Junkie** · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Disclaimer** I was gifted this brilliant work of art by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Oh my goodness! Christine Nolfi just made it to my Top Author Shelf. This book was absolutely amazing…

This book touched my heart in a way that few books have ever done! I fell in love with every character in this book and while reading the book shed a whole bunch of tears. Christine Nolfi makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and you root for everyone to win. Even the crazy couple from Baltimore. (There was a point that I hated them but soon realized they just loved Dillon as much as the rest of the characters).

Annie was amazing she was strong and what stood out to me was her loyalty to wrong her rights and to do the right thing. Michael was loveable and I adored him every step of the way. I want to say that I am a fan and will be picking up more of Nolfi’s work in the future. Amazing and heartwarming book!

[Nancy Steinle gummel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dream You Make by Christine Nolfi is a heart warming story. The biggest concern in the book are trust issues. Trust between Anna and Michael with a 5 year old child, Dillon thrown into the mixture. Anna has temporary custody of her nephew Dillon. He is slowly evolving from his shell. Anna runs her father's business. Needing more income, she takes a job at her neighbor Miriams place of business. Michael Rowe is her boss and owner of the business. There is smoldering tension between Anna and Michael. Anna feels she can't have a relationship as it may jeapordize her custody battle. Michael feels its wrong to date employees. Michael feels Anna is keeping secrets. Anna feels Michael is holding something back. Read on to discover whether Anna and Michael can resolve their issues. Will Anna be awarded Dillon? I have received a copy of this book for an honest review.