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Daydreaming Before Oblivion
Lucie
Healer • Painter • Daydreamer
Trapped under her drunken father’s roof and forced to work in his run-down tourist shop, Lucie Nightingale spends her lonely days painting places she’s never been to and daydreaming about a life she’s never had. She’s convinced freedom belongs to everyone but her. While tourists come and go, chasing their own adventures, Lucie longs for the courage to finally leave on one of her own.
Finn
Fighter • Spy • Cynic
Finn Vega has spent his whole life on the run—from his past, from hope, and from anyone he might get too attached to. His dangerous job as a secret government operative has taught him: everyone you love becomes a target. Keeping his distance has always been the safest choice. Until one night at an unexpected stop at a sleepy tourist shop when he comes face-to-face with Lucie Nightingale. She makes him forget his own rules.
What starts as stolen visits and secret conversations quickly ignites into something Lucie and Finn can’t run from—and for the first time in years, neither of them wants to. But both are keeping dark secrets from the other, and neither Lucie’s father nor Finn’s job will let them escape without a fight. With danger closing in from every side, Finn and Lucie must finally decide once and for all whether to leave love behind and run, or whether it's finally time to stand still and fight for a life neither has ever dared to dream of.
Healer • Painter • Daydreamer
Trapped under her drunken father’s roof and forced to work in his run-down tourist shop, Lucie Nightingale spends her lonely days painting places she’s never been to and daydreaming about a life she’s never had. She’s convinced freedom belongs to everyone but her. While tourists come and go, chasing their own adventures, Lucie longs for the courage to finally leave on one of her own.
Finn
Fighter • Spy • Cynic
Finn Vega has spent his whole life on the run—from his past, from hope, and from anyone he might get too attached to. His dangerous job as a secret government operative has taught him: everyone you love becomes a target. Keeping his distance has always been the safest choice. Until one night at an unexpected stop at a sleepy tourist shop when he comes face-to-face with Lucie Nightingale. She makes him forget his own rules.
What starts as stolen visits and secret conversations quickly ignites into something Lucie and Finn can’t run from—and for the first time in years, neither of them wants to. But both are keeping dark secrets from the other, and neither Lucie’s father nor Finn’s job will let them escape without a fight. With danger closing in from every side, Finn and Lucie must finally decide once and for all whether to leave love behind and run, or whether it's finally time to stand still and fight for a life neither has ever dared to dream of.
- GenresRomantasy
Unknown Binding
Published September 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced reader copy review:
Wowow what a fun time! I am not usually the target audience for this genre but the author is a personal friend and I’ve loved following and supporting her adventure into publishing her books!
Dare I say I liked this prequel even better than her first book. It was focused and romantic and very intense at times. I’m not much for fluffy romances but I will admit that I couldn’t help but smile and kick my feet at times. It was also very heartfelt, I even shed a tear or two. I was especially impressed with the more intense sequences with Lucie’s dad. He was heinous but in a very dark and grounded way. There are real men like him, who abuse their power and lie to the rest of the world about how they actually treat their family. It was devastating and also inspiring to watch Lucie’s character deal with her circumstances and find the strength to build a life of her own. She stayed true to herself, never became cruel or vengeful, and her kindness eventually led to her purpose.
It was also fun to see what Charlie and Sabrina were like as a couple before…the angst 😬
Wowow what a fun time! I am not usually the target audience for this genre but the author is a personal friend and I’ve loved following and supporting her adventure into publishing her books!
Dare I say I liked this prequel even better than her first book. It was focused and romantic and very intense at times. I’m not much for fluffy romances but I will admit that I couldn’t help but smile and kick my feet at times. It was also very heartfelt, I even shed a tear or two. I was especially impressed with the more intense sequences with Lucie’s dad. He was heinous but in a very dark and grounded way. There are real men like him, who abuse their power and lie to the rest of the world about how they actually treat their family. It was devastating and also inspiring to watch Lucie’s character deal with her circumstances and find the strength to build a life of her own. She stayed true to herself, never became cruel or vengeful, and her kindness eventually led to her purpose.
It was also fun to see what Charlie and Sabrina were like as a couple before…the angst 😬
August 25, 2026
First of all thank you Maddy (author) for sending me this ARC!
After reading Shattered Into Oblivion, I was so excited to hear we were getting Finn’s and Lucie’s story!! This is a prequel to SIO, so you won’t be missing out 🤭
This story follows Finn and Lucie. Finn has been running all his life, never letting anyone get too close to him. His job in a secret government operative makes getting close to someone even harder. But after running for so long he starts to realize that something or someone is missing from his life. And when he least expects it, he comes face to face with just the right person.
Lucie has always put her family first, so when her dad has fall she dropped everything to help him. But as time goes on she finds herself trapped in a small town running her father tourist shop, dreaming of a better future were she isn’t lonely and a place where she can paint and go back to school. And one day as hope diminishes the runaway comes into her life and changes everything. Together they must determine what is important and chase after it.
My emotions went on a roller coaster 🎢! There was a lot of moments that had me laughing, kicking me and a few moments that had me devastated! I wanted to take my time with it but I pretty much devoured faster than I anticipated 😄
Getting to see characters from SIO was so needed and gave a better understanding to certain relationships! I absolutely love getting to see Finn and Sabrina together and I loved their sibling banter🤌🏽🤭 Charlie will always have a special place in my heart so anytime he was in the story made me happy 🤭🥰
This story reminds us that people who are meant to be in your life will show up when you most need them. Life is to short, so go do the things you want to do! And if your struggling never be to afraid to ask for help, you are not alone!
Tropes:
🏔️Grumpy/Sunshine
🐚 Ocean dates
🏔️He Falls First and Harder
🐚Secret Tattoo
🏔️Found Family
After reading Shattered Into Oblivion, I was so excited to hear we were getting Finn’s and Lucie’s story!! This is a prequel to SIO, so you won’t be missing out 🤭
This story follows Finn and Lucie. Finn has been running all his life, never letting anyone get too close to him. His job in a secret government operative makes getting close to someone even harder. But after running for so long he starts to realize that something or someone is missing from his life. And when he least expects it, he comes face to face with just the right person.
Lucie has always put her family first, so when her dad has fall she dropped everything to help him. But as time goes on she finds herself trapped in a small town running her father tourist shop, dreaming of a better future were she isn’t lonely and a place where she can paint and go back to school. And one day as hope diminishes the runaway comes into her life and changes everything. Together they must determine what is important and chase after it.
My emotions went on a roller coaster 🎢! There was a lot of moments that had me laughing, kicking me and a few moments that had me devastated! I wanted to take my time with it but I pretty much devoured faster than I anticipated 😄
Getting to see characters from SIO was so needed and gave a better understanding to certain relationships! I absolutely love getting to see Finn and Sabrina together and I loved their sibling banter🤌🏽🤭 Charlie will always have a special place in my heart so anytime he was in the story made me happy 🤭🥰
This story reminds us that people who are meant to be in your life will show up when you most need them. Life is to short, so go do the things you want to do! And if your struggling never be to afraid to ask for help, you are not alone!
Tropes:
🏔️Grumpy/Sunshine
🐚 Ocean dates
🏔️He Falls First and Harder
🐚Secret Tattoo
🏔️Found Family
September 12, 2026
☆ ☆ ☆
Finn and Lucy were sweet🩷 Finn is a grumpy cinnamon roll and Lucy is his sunshine. Finn was so sweet to support her dreams and I love that he always protected her. Also Charlie and Sabrina were so cute together! They were such great friends to Finn, I enjoyed their banter so much.
Honestly I lost interest in the second portion of the book. The characters became inconsistent in my opinion, and some things just felt unrealistic.
tropes:
🩷strangers to lovers
🩷he falls first
🩷grumpy cinnamon roll MMC
🩷secret identity
🩷”good girl”
🩷he protects her
🩷she tends to his wounds
🩷secret tattoo
🩷he calls her ‘Sweetheart’
🩷dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (no-spice)
- 24 swear words (no f- bombs)
- there’s a mention of a character showing a middle finger
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
Finn and Lucy were sweet🩷 Finn is a grumpy cinnamon roll and Lucy is his sunshine. Finn was so sweet to support her dreams and I love that he always protected her. Also Charlie and Sabrina were so cute together! They were such great friends to Finn, I enjoyed their banter so much.
Honestly I lost interest in the second portion of the book. The characters became inconsistent in my opinion, and some things just felt unrealistic.
tropes:
🩷strangers to lovers
🩷he falls first
🩷grumpy cinnamon roll MMC
🩷secret identity
🩷”good girl”
🩷he protects her
🩷she tends to his wounds
🩷secret tattoo
🩷he calls her ‘Sweetheart’
🩷dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (no-spice)
- 24 swear words (no f- bombs)
- there’s a mention of a character showing a middle finger
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spoiler Free ARC Review 🩷
Releasing September 29th, 2026
Tropes:
• Dual POV
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• He Fell First & Harder
• Found Family
• Emotional / Healing Romance
• Hope After Trauma (Abusive Themes)
• No Spice (Just Kissing)
I genuinely don't know how I'm supposed to put my feelings about DayDreaming Before Oblivion into words, because somehow this book managed to be both heartbreaking and comforting at the same time.
Before I begin, Maddy, girl... I am SO beyond proud of you! You brought this beautiful masterpiece to light, and you shared not only Finn and Lucie's story, but also your own. You should be SO proud. YOU DID IT! 🥹🩷
DayDreaming Before Oblivion is the prequel to Shattered Into Oblivion, a wonderful loose retelling of Anastasia with spies and assassins. DayDreaming Before Oblivion takes us in a completely different direction, giving us a wonderful romance loosely based on Barbie's Rapunzel and boy, was it a rollercoaster.
Lucie, the FMC, is such an in-depth character. You get to see so many layers of her throughout this story. Her hopes and dreams, but also her darkest thoughts. We get to live through her pain, be there for her perfect moments, and experience everything alongside her. She feels so incredibly real because we aren't only given the happy parts of her story. We get to see the things that hurt her, the things she's afraid of, the things she dreams about, and the moments where she is simply trying to find her way through it all.
And Finn, the MMC... well, he is the guy you expect to be the bad boy just based off his aura alone. But he is anything but that. He is kind, gentle and incredibly thoughtful, especially when it comes to Lucie. He dreamed and silently hoped for a love that consumed him, but he would never admit that. Then he met her, and somehow, he just knew. Finn falls HARD.
But what I loved most was that even though he fell so deeply for Lucie, he never overstepped her boundaries. Every choice they made, Lucie was always at the forefront of the decision. He wanted her, but he also respected her, and I absolutely loved that about him.
And the banter... 🥹
The banter between these characters is something I absolutely adored. You can truly feel the family and group dynamic between them, and honestly, it's the kind of found family that makes you wish you could be part of it too. For those that have read Shattered Into Oblivion, seeing more of Charlie and Sabrina, it's everything we could of wanted.
There are moments where you'll be laughing, moments where you'll be crying, and moments where your heart will genuinely hurt. But somehow, it all comes together in this beautiful balance, and I think that's what makes this story so special.
It's heartbreaking, but it's also hopeful.
It's about pain, but it's also about healing.
It's about finding love, but also finding yourself.
And most importantly, it's about learning that what you've been through doesn't have to determine where you go next 🩷
Releasing September 29th, 2026
Tropes:
• Dual POV
• Grumpy/Sunshine
• He Fell First & Harder
• Found Family
• Emotional / Healing Romance
• Hope After Trauma (Abusive Themes)
• No Spice (Just Kissing)
I genuinely don't know how I'm supposed to put my feelings about DayDreaming Before Oblivion into words, because somehow this book managed to be both heartbreaking and comforting at the same time.
Before I begin, Maddy, girl... I am SO beyond proud of you! You brought this beautiful masterpiece to light, and you shared not only Finn and Lucie's story, but also your own. You should be SO proud. YOU DID IT! 🥹🩷
DayDreaming Before Oblivion is the prequel to Shattered Into Oblivion, a wonderful loose retelling of Anastasia with spies and assassins. DayDreaming Before Oblivion takes us in a completely different direction, giving us a wonderful romance loosely based on Barbie's Rapunzel and boy, was it a rollercoaster.
Lucie, the FMC, is such an in-depth character. You get to see so many layers of her throughout this story. Her hopes and dreams, but also her darkest thoughts. We get to live through her pain, be there for her perfect moments, and experience everything alongside her. She feels so incredibly real because we aren't only given the happy parts of her story. We get to see the things that hurt her, the things she's afraid of, the things she dreams about, and the moments where she is simply trying to find her way through it all.
And Finn, the MMC... well, he is the guy you expect to be the bad boy just based off his aura alone. But he is anything but that. He is kind, gentle and incredibly thoughtful, especially when it comes to Lucie. He dreamed and silently hoped for a love that consumed him, but he would never admit that. Then he met her, and somehow, he just knew. Finn falls HARD.
But what I loved most was that even though he fell so deeply for Lucie, he never overstepped her boundaries. Every choice they made, Lucie was always at the forefront of the decision. He wanted her, but he also respected her, and I absolutely loved that about him.
And the banter... 🥹
The banter between these characters is something I absolutely adored. You can truly feel the family and group dynamic between them, and honestly, it's the kind of found family that makes you wish you could be part of it too. For those that have read Shattered Into Oblivion, seeing more of Charlie and Sabrina, it's everything we could of wanted.
There are moments where you'll be laughing, moments where you'll be crying, and moments where your heart will genuinely hurt. But somehow, it all comes together in this beautiful balance, and I think that's what makes this story so special.
It's heartbreaking, but it's also hopeful.
It's about pain, but it's also about healing.
It's about finding love, but also finding yourself.
And most importantly, it's about learning that what you've been through doesn't have to determine where you go next 🩷
September 18, 2026
🩷Daydreaming into Oblivion by Madeline Butler🩷
ARC READ
Lucie is a painter Trapped under her drunken father’s roof and forced to work in his run-down tourist shop. Lucie Nightingale spends her days painting places she’s never been to and daydreaming about a life she’s never had.
Finn is a Fighter and Spy. He spent his whole life on the run. His job as a secret government operative has taught him one thing: everyone you love becomes a target. Keeping his distance has always been the safest choice. Until one night at an unexpected stop at a sleepy tourist shop when he comes face-to-face with Lucie Nightingale. She makes him forget his own rules.
What starts as stolen visits and conversations quickly ignites into something Lucie and Finn can’t run from, and neither want to. But both are keeping dark secrets from the other, and neither Lucie’s father nor Finn’s job will let them leave without a fight. With danger closing in, Finn and Lucie must decide whether to leave love behind, or if it's time to stand still and fight for forever?
MADELINE!!! Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to read your artwork. This book is the 2nd book in the Oblivion Series, however, I read this before Book 1 and I LOVED IT! Book 1 is definitely on my TBR and I will be reading ASAP. This book is very fast paced all throughout so it made everything flow very well and easy to follow along. I loved the main characters as well as the side characters, every one is created and developed with heart and creativity, which made the book so much more enjoyable to read. Once I started I kept saying ‘One more chapter’, which is a bit dangerous when you’re at work or when it’s 10pm and you need to wake up at 5 the next morning. This book was such a fun read, if you’re in the mood for a cosy, suspenseful romance, I definitely recommend this book.
ARC READ
Lucie is a painter Trapped under her drunken father’s roof and forced to work in his run-down tourist shop. Lucie Nightingale spends her days painting places she’s never been to and daydreaming about a life she’s never had.
Finn is a Fighter and Spy. He spent his whole life on the run. His job as a secret government operative has taught him one thing: everyone you love becomes a target. Keeping his distance has always been the safest choice. Until one night at an unexpected stop at a sleepy tourist shop when he comes face-to-face with Lucie Nightingale. She makes him forget his own rules.
What starts as stolen visits and conversations quickly ignites into something Lucie and Finn can’t run from, and neither want to. But both are keeping dark secrets from the other, and neither Lucie’s father nor Finn’s job will let them leave without a fight. With danger closing in, Finn and Lucie must decide whether to leave love behind, or if it's time to stand still and fight for forever?
MADELINE!!! Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to read your artwork. This book is the 2nd book in the Oblivion Series, however, I read this before Book 1 and I LOVED IT! Book 1 is definitely on my TBR and I will be reading ASAP. This book is very fast paced all throughout so it made everything flow very well and easy to follow along. I loved the main characters as well as the side characters, every one is created and developed with heart and creativity, which made the book so much more enjoyable to read. Once I started I kept saying ‘One more chapter’, which is a bit dangerous when you’re at work or when it’s 10pm and you need to wake up at 5 the next morning. This book was such a fun read, if you’re in the mood for a cosy, suspenseful romance, I definitely recommend this book.
September 29, 2026
Books follows Flynn and Lucie.
Flynn is like a secret agent fighting against the legion trying to take them out and save the families and take them back to their safe house.
Flynn has a troubled past and one days comes into Lucies shop and everything changes.
Lucie works at her dads shop . Her mum passed away and she dropped out of college to look after her dad and the shop. Her past time is painting . Lucie dad is an alcoholic and abusive towards Lucie.
Both met and both felt an instant spark but he lied about what he did for works. which matters to Lucie. She is a firm believer in trust and loyality.
Apart the lie between them both Flynn starts to show up for Lucie and she starts to trust him. He takes her for the first time to the beach and they share their first kiss.
However things take a turn for the worse when Flynn gets injured and goes to Lucie to help. He then has to come clean about what he does which doesn't go down to well so she asks him to leave.
For a while Flynn doesn't hear anything back or see or heard from Lucie and starts to get worried. Little does he know that Lucie has been so badly beaten and scared that she is recovering in bed.
Rescue mission happens and things start to look up the two.
I loved Lucie innocent character development and never let anything get to her and always seen the best in everything.
The ending i was not expecting and came out of the blue. Now need the second instalment to find out what happened.
Flynn is like a secret agent fighting against the legion trying to take them out and save the families and take them back to their safe house.
Flynn has a troubled past and one days comes into Lucies shop and everything changes.
Lucie works at her dads shop . Her mum passed away and she dropped out of college to look after her dad and the shop. Her past time is painting . Lucie dad is an alcoholic and abusive towards Lucie.
Both met and both felt an instant spark but he lied about what he did for works. which matters to Lucie. She is a firm believer in trust and loyality.
Apart the lie between them both Flynn starts to show up for Lucie and she starts to trust him. He takes her for the first time to the beach and they share their first kiss.
However things take a turn for the worse when Flynn gets injured and goes to Lucie to help. He then has to come clean about what he does which doesn't go down to well so she asks him to leave.
For a while Flynn doesn't hear anything back or see or heard from Lucie and starts to get worried. Little does he know that Lucie has been so badly beaten and scared that she is recovering in bed.
Rescue mission happens and things start to look up the two.
I loved Lucie innocent character development and never let anything get to her and always seen the best in everything.
The ending i was not expecting and came out of the blue. Now need the second instalment to find out what happened.
October 5, 2026
4 ⭐️
Review of advanced reader copy received from author! Thank you, Madeline, for sending me this ARC! I love you and this book!
This was such a fun and light read!!! Daydreaming Before Oblivion had me smiling from ear to ear the entire book!!! I loved it!!! Lucy and Finn are the cutest, just the cutest!! Where can I get my own grumpy cinnamon roll like Finn that will climb through my bedroom window and take me to the beach? I need him. He rightfully so earned his place on the book boyfriend list. I love how protective he was of Lucy and also supported her!!! I loved how no matter what Lucy always stayed true to herself
I want to say that I have not read book one, Shattered into Oblivion yet, before reading Daydreaming Before Oblivion but I still understood the characters and story! I am definitely going to go back and read Shattered into Oblivion at some point soon because I loved Charlie and Sabrina and now, I need more of them!! But I requested this ARC because it was marketed as a Barbie Rapunzel retelling and let me tell you I loved Rapunzel growing up so you best believe I was reading this and it certainly lived up to all the expectations I had.
The plot was so good, all of their little dates, please I'm jealous because I've never been on a date like any of them before and I want to experience it now. This book was everything that I needed right now and more!!!
Madeline wrote a truly beautiful story; I would highly recommend this book to anyone who love a cozy romance with suspense elements to it!!
Review of advanced reader copy received from author! Thank you, Madeline, for sending me this ARC! I love you and this book!
This was such a fun and light read!!! Daydreaming Before Oblivion had me smiling from ear to ear the entire book!!! I loved it!!! Lucy and Finn are the cutest, just the cutest!! Where can I get my own grumpy cinnamon roll like Finn that will climb through my bedroom window and take me to the beach? I need him. He rightfully so earned his place on the book boyfriend list. I love how protective he was of Lucy and also supported her!!! I loved how no matter what Lucy always stayed true to herself
I want to say that I have not read book one, Shattered into Oblivion yet, before reading Daydreaming Before Oblivion but I still understood the characters and story! I am definitely going to go back and read Shattered into Oblivion at some point soon because I loved Charlie and Sabrina and now, I need more of them!! But I requested this ARC because it was marketed as a Barbie Rapunzel retelling and let me tell you I loved Rapunzel growing up so you best believe I was reading this and it certainly lived up to all the expectations I had.
The plot was so good, all of their little dates, please I'm jealous because I've never been on a date like any of them before and I want to experience it now. This book was everything that I needed right now and more!!!
Madeline wrote a truly beautiful story; I would highly recommend this book to anyone who love a cozy romance with suspense elements to it!!
September 29, 2026
Disclaimer: I did not read Shattered into Oblivion before picking up this book. But this book is very much readable as a standalone, or how I'm probably going to do it, before reading book one (It is a prequel after all). As I really liked this book, I'm pretty sure I will be picking up Charlie's story as well. Very curious to see what happens for him after that ending!
I requested an ARC for this one solely for the fact that the author advertised it as a barbie Rapunzel retelling. Immediately sold, that is one of my favourite movies ever! In saying that, I should do a rewatch soon. But back to the book, because that's probably why you're here.
This book is such a good time. I love all the characters, excluding Lucie's dad of course. But Lucie and Finn are such fun characters, and they are really cute together. I also really like all the side characters, especially Charlie and Sabrina (I'm in pain from that ending and will be sending my therapy bill). The plot was very intriguing, their little escapes and dates are so fun and cute.
I really liked this book and highly recommend for anyone looking for a cosy romance story with some suspense elements and incredibly lovable characters. But also beware of the content warnings and take them to heart, because the story is really well written, so it feels quite real at points.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this book early! All opinions and feelings are my own and completely honest☺️
I requested an ARC for this one solely for the fact that the author advertised it as a barbie Rapunzel retelling. Immediately sold, that is one of my favourite movies ever! In saying that, I should do a rewatch soon. But back to the book, because that's probably why you're here.
This book is such a good time. I love all the characters, excluding Lucie's dad of course. But Lucie and Finn are such fun characters, and they are really cute together. I also really like all the side characters, especially Charlie and Sabrina (I'm in pain from that ending and will be sending my therapy bill). The plot was very intriguing, their little escapes and dates are so fun and cute.
I really liked this book and highly recommend for anyone looking for a cosy romance story with some suspense elements and incredibly lovable characters. But also beware of the content warnings and take them to heart, because the story is really well written, so it feels quite real at points.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this book early! All opinions and feelings are my own and completely honest☺️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the honor of reading this book as an Advanced Reader Copy. I am currently crying both happy and sad tears as I write this. I loved this book. I will do my best to make this a very spoiler-free review! At its heart, this book is a beautiful romance. Overall the tone is joyful, hopeful, and sweet. They fall for each other and build love together. They truly care for and respect one another. There is found family, friendships, respect, meaning, and purpose. At the same time, this story has gut punches of emotion and pain that render its characters very three-dimensional and believable. Lucie is resilient and hopeful, despite her circumstances. And her thinking and actions are believable based on her life experiences and through love and found family she grows and changes in really beautiful ways. Finn’s character arc is always a great experience and their chemistry! This is a spice-free book, but it still sizzles! I was not prepared for the ending! There is so much of the author’s soul in this book. She explores heavy themes with a delicate hand and well-crafted characters through the love they share together. Can’t wait for others to read!
Read
September 13, 2026I read Daydreaming Before Oblivion in one sitting, and I honestly couldn't put it down! Madeline Butler has such an incredible way of bringing a story to life that you can see every moment unfold. I fell in love with these characters right away. After reading her first book, Shattered into Oblivion, I already felt connected to these characters, but Daydreaming Before Oblivion made me fall even more in love with them.
You can tell Madeline is a romantic at heart. She created such a beautiful love story, and I absolutely loved the unique and thoughtful dates throughout the book. It was all so original and thought out perfectly.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this beautiful book. Every detail of this book is gorgeous. The chapter headings/ pages are black and have beautiful artwork for the characters. The author created soundtracks for each character and you really get to know her characters like they are your friends. I cannot wait for what you write next!!
You can tell Madeline is a romantic at heart. She created such a beautiful love story, and I absolutely loved the unique and thoughtful dates throughout the book. It was all so original and thought out perfectly.
Thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this beautiful book. Every detail of this book is gorgeous. The chapter headings/ pages are black and have beautiful artwork for the characters. The author created soundtracks for each character and you really get to know her characters like they are your friends. I cannot wait for what you write next!!
September 27, 2026
4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The happiest prequel I ever did daydream of 🥹💖
As a Finn fan since Shattered into Oblivion, I ate up every crumb of his backstory and the absolute ray of sunshine that is Lucie Nightingale! ☀️ These two have been through so much, but their story is such a beautiful reminder that diamonds are made under pressure. 💎
I loved seeing the inspiration from Madeline’s own experiences woven into this story, and her author’s note at the end absolutely got me!!! 😭
And if you’ve read Shattered into Oblivion… even when you see the epilogue coming, it still HURTS.
Whether you start here or read it after Book 1, there are plenty of little Easter eggs to enjoy. I’m so honored to have been part of the street team for the book I once BEGGED for! 🤭🩷
Daydreaming Before Oblivion releases September 29, 2026, in paperback and on Kindle Unlimited! ✨
The happiest prequel I ever did daydream of 🥹💖
As a Finn fan since Shattered into Oblivion, I ate up every crumb of his backstory and the absolute ray of sunshine that is Lucie Nightingale! ☀️ These two have been through so much, but their story is such a beautiful reminder that diamonds are made under pressure. 💎
I loved seeing the inspiration from Madeline’s own experiences woven into this story, and her author’s note at the end absolutely got me!!! 😭
And if you’ve read Shattered into Oblivion… even when you see the epilogue coming, it still HURTS.
Whether you start here or read it after Book 1, there are plenty of little Easter eggs to enjoy. I’m so honored to have been part of the street team for the book I once BEGGED for! 🤭🩷
Daydreaming Before Oblivion releases September 29, 2026, in paperback and on Kindle Unlimited! ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Daydream Before Oblivion
Coming out the 29th of September.
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reading for this book.
Well, what a roller-coaster.
This was such a beautiful story that had a Barbie Rapunzel vibe.
This story had me gripped from the first page.
You have an unbelievably strong FMC, Lucie. She loves to paint and just wants to help everyone. Despite all the odds against her, she was able to get back up and take back her life with a little bit of help from our MMC Finn.
Now Finn is the ultimate Grumpy cinnamon roll. He falls first and so passionately! I spent most of the book just wanting to hug him.
If you like cozy romance with mystery vibes, this book is for you.
Trops
Dual POV
Grumpy/Sunshine
He falls first
Found Family
Hope after trauma
Coming out the 29th of September.
I was lucky enough to be an ARC reading for this book.
Well, what a roller-coaster.
This was such a beautiful story that had a Barbie Rapunzel vibe.
This story had me gripped from the first page.
You have an unbelievably strong FMC, Lucie. She loves to paint and just wants to help everyone. Despite all the odds against her, she was able to get back up and take back her life with a little bit of help from our MMC Finn.
Now Finn is the ultimate Grumpy cinnamon roll. He falls first and so passionately! I spent most of the book just wanting to hug him.
If you like cozy romance with mystery vibes, this book is for you.
Trops
Dual POV
Grumpy/Sunshine
He falls first
Found Family
Hope after trauma
Review of advance copy received from Autor
First I wanna thank Madeline for sending me this ARC, I am forever grateful 🫶🏻
•
Every single page of this book consumed me and my soul. I couldn't put it down even when I knew I had to sleep. This book made me cry since the beginning - happy tears, sad tears... Everything in the pack... This book brought me a sense of peace and anxiety I can't even explain, it will forever live on my heart rent free ❤️
•
This book me adore this author on a level I can't even explain and can't wait to read more from her! She is so charesmatic (I am not sure I wrote that right 🤡🤣) and the way she poured her out with this book and the acknowledges - thank you so much Madeline for telling us your life story ❤️
•
And that end? Lord have mercy on us because I was NOT expecting that end 🫠
•
Every single page of this book consumed me and my soul. I couldn't put it down even when I knew I had to sleep. This book made me cry since the beginning - happy tears, sad tears... Everything in the pack... This book brought me a sense of peace and anxiety I can't even explain, it will forever live on my heart rent free ❤️
•
This book me adore this author on a level I can't even explain and can't wait to read more from her! She is so charesmatic (I am not sure I wrote that right 🤡🤣) and the way she poured her out with this book and the acknowledges - thank you so much Madeline for telling us your life story ❤️
•
And that end? Lord have mercy on us because I was NOT expecting that end 🫠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5/5 stars.
No spice. A little steamy (make out sessions but nothing super graphic)
I don't even know where to start with this book. I absolutely fell in love with Finn and Lucie as soon as I started their book. I laughed, I teared up, I squealed. This book will truly make you feel such a wide range of emotions in such a short time period.
I love how gently Finn treats Lucie given all of her trauma she has and how he helps her heal into her best self and I love how Lucie is able to make Finn be a gooey love-struck man. They are the best dynamic, and seeing them interact with Charlie and Sabrina makes it even better. They are the friend group everyone wishes to be a part of.
Overall, this book is so good and I can't recommend it enough. <3
No spice. A little steamy (make out sessions but nothing super graphic)
I don't even know where to start with this book. I absolutely fell in love with Finn and Lucie as soon as I started their book. I laughed, I teared up, I squealed. This book will truly make you feel such a wide range of emotions in such a short time period.
I love how gently Finn treats Lucie given all of her trauma she has and how he helps her heal into her best self and I love how Lucie is able to make Finn be a gooey love-struck man. They are the best dynamic, and seeing them interact with Charlie and Sabrina makes it even better. They are the friend group everyone wishes to be a part of.
Overall, this book is so good and I can't recommend it enough. <3
September 4, 2026
This was an absolutely perfect prequel to the Oblivion series! At first I went in to this thinking nobody could top Sabrina and Charlie but boy was I wrong! Finn and Lucie’s relationship was everything that you dream of growing up. The dynamic between these two were just unmatched! In my opinion this one was a little more romance foward than Shattered into Oblivion and it worked SO well. Madeline has a way of making you feel like you’re apart of the story. There’s characters I absolutely loved and one I couldn’t stand to read about anymore. (iykyk) All in all this was such a fun book and I can’t wait to see what these series has to offer next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I DEVOURED this book! Big shout out to the AMAZING author for letting me be one of the ARC readers!
Finn Vega? *swoon* I love nothing more than a sweet, protective, super hot, tattooed man. A gentleman who respects boundaries and sees his lady as the sunshine goddess she is?? Be still my heart!
Lucie Nightingale? Probably the bravest and smartest FMC I’ve read about in a while. Surviving the situation she did and coming out stronger on the other side? LOVE!
This book is so adorable and had me giggling and kicking my feet at all the romance. Can’t wait to see more of Finn and Lucie in future books!
Finn Vega? *swoon* I love nothing more than a sweet, protective, super hot, tattooed man. A gentleman who respects boundaries and sees his lady as the sunshine goddess she is?? Be still my heart!
Lucie Nightingale? Probably the bravest and smartest FMC I’ve read about in a while. Surviving the situation she did and coming out stronger on the other side? LOVE!
This book is so adorable and had me giggling and kicking my feet at all the romance. Can’t wait to see more of Finn and Lucie in future books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author from trusting me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a review.
This book surpassed my expectations. Based on the marketing, I was expecting a cute, fluffy romance read with mystery, but it delivered so much more.
I got really attached to the characters.
The ending blew my mind. I really thought it was setting up to wrap up as a cute little love story then BAM. I was blindsided. I just stared at the wall for a minute like that meme “what do you mean”
This book is young adult friendly but it does carry a dark theme of abuse pretty heavily in the first 60% or the book. So please protect your mental health.
This book surpassed my expectations. Based on the marketing, I was expecting a cute, fluffy romance read with mystery, but it delivered so much more.
I got really attached to the characters.
The ending blew my mind. I really thought it was setting up to wrap up as a cute little love story then BAM. I was blindsided. I just stared at the wall for a minute like that meme “what do you mean”
This book is young adult friendly but it does carry a dark theme of abuse pretty heavily in the first 60% or the book. So please protect your mental health.
October 5, 2026
Madeline radiates this beautiful combination of positivity, creativity and quiet strength—all of those qualities made their way onto the page in this book. She took pieces of her own painful story and tuned them into something beautiful. The underlying inspiration for this book (to write something to remind her daughter there is always hope for peace and love) made me sob multiple times. I’ve never been quite so touched by an authors note. There is so much courage in the vulnerability she shares and how she continues to create from a place of love despite her own trauma. I am so proud of her! She is genuinely such an inspiration 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness! I just finished Daydreaming Before Oblivion as an ARC reader (WHICH HAS BEEN AMAZING!! Thank you so much for this opportunity Madeline!
The book was SO GOOD hands down! Lucie and Finn are such a good couple with amazing chemistry, and I loved to see their story unfold! The whole book had me giggling and kicking my feet the whole time! I also loved getting to learn more about Way Station, and get to see some of the characters from Shattered Into Oblivion before the events of that book! Overall, this was definitely a five star read, and I couldn't put it down!!
The book was SO GOOD hands down! Lucie and Finn are such a good couple with amazing chemistry, and I loved to see their story unfold! The whole book had me giggling and kicking my feet the whole time! I also loved getting to learn more about Way Station, and get to see some of the characters from Shattered Into Oblivion before the events of that book! Overall, this was definitely a five star read, and I couldn't put it down!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review:
This book was nothing like I expected but absolutely stunning.
The characters all had a depth that made them so relatable and the storyline was as beautiful as it was heartbreaking. Lucie and Finn are perfect and Charlie, Sabrina, and Sam made the book that much better!
The twist in the “after” to set up the next book is one I didn’t see coming because I was lulled into a sense of security! I cannot wait to see what happens next in the series!!!
This book was nothing like I expected but absolutely stunning.
The characters all had a depth that made them so relatable and the storyline was as beautiful as it was heartbreaking. Lucie and Finn are perfect and Charlie, Sabrina, and Sam made the book that much better!
The twist in the “after” to set up the next book is one I didn’t see coming because I was lulled into a sense of security! I cannot wait to see what happens next in the series!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was absolutely amazing. I know I give a lot of books 6 ⭐️ but I really do love all the books I read. This book had me kicking my feet and holding my breath. I wish I could read this book for the first time again. I fell in love with all the characters and I felt like they were all well rounded. I will recommend this book for the rest of my life!
October 2, 2026
HOW DARE YOU MADELINE?? First the letter from Annie. Then Sabrina. Then the note from the author.... Why are you destroying me??
🩷 Instalove
🩷 They save each other
🩷 6'4 tattooed MMC
🩷 Escaping abuse
🩷 No spice
🩷 Rapunzel x Assassins
My only complaint is that I wish there were more details / missions regarding the secret CIA division. But I'm assuming that it comes in the next book!
🩷 Instalove
🩷 They save each other
🩷 6'4 tattooed MMC
🩷 Escaping abuse
🩷 No spice
🩷 Rapunzel x Assassins
My only complaint is that I wish there were more details / missions regarding the secret CIA division. But I'm assuming that it comes in the next book!
October 3, 2026
They Save Each Other 💞
🩷 instalove
🩷 Love at first sight
🩷 They Save each other
🩷 Rapunzel Retelling
🩷 Pink obsession
🩷 Secret Government Programs
🩷 No spice
🩷 Feet kicking worthy kisses
Wish it had more of the spy / assassin side of the story BUT I have a feeling it's coming. The ending leaves on a devastating cliff hanger but it's okay because the next book is already out!
🩷 instalove
🩷 Love at first sight
🩷 They Save each other
🩷 Rapunzel Retelling
🩷 Pink obsession
🩷 Secret Government Programs
🩷 No spice
🩷 Feet kicking worthy kisses
Wish it had more of the spy / assassin side of the story BUT I have a feeling it's coming. The ending leaves on a devastating cliff hanger but it's okay because the next book is already out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Babes! Wow, another book! And I am so UNBELIEVABLY proud of this one. I hope you love the characters as much as I do. Tell Lucie and Finn I said, "hi!" and happy reading, my dears! xoxo Madeline
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. Overcoming trauma and abuse, love at first sight and secret agents, it has all the feels!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
Really enjoyed reading Finn and Lucie’s journey. And I cannot wait for them to take down Legion. The day will be so satisfying.
Really enjoyed reading Finn and Lucie’s journey. And I cannot wait for them to take down Legion. The day will be so satisfying.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑
Special thank you to the author (Maddy 💕) for the gifted copy.
We finally got the prequel to Shattered Into Oblivion, and it is top-tier. This Barbie Rapunzel retelling was such a roller coaster. So, buckle up, buttercup.
Lucie, the FMC, was so relatable—taking care of everyone else and putting her dreams to the side. Her intelligence and sunny disposition, despite her trauma, make her such an amazing MC. How Finn treats her throughout the book is feet-kicking worthy.
Grumpy? ✔️ Secret Operative? ✔️ Tatted? ✔️ Treats this painter he runs into with gentleness, respect, and oceanside dates? Also ✔️. Finn falls hard, and no one can blame him, because we as readers fell in love with Lucie (and Finn), too. His banter is stunning, and their group dynamic with Charlie and Sabrina is so wholesome.
This is for us romantics who like a little mystery in our books. Think Safe Haven vibes. But be warned: there will be tears and a lot of emotions throughout this read.
Spice: 🫑
Special thank you to the author (Maddy 💕) for the gifted copy.
We finally got the prequel to Shattered Into Oblivion, and it is top-tier. This Barbie Rapunzel retelling was such a roller coaster. So, buckle up, buttercup.
Lucie, the FMC, was so relatable—taking care of everyone else and putting her dreams to the side. Her intelligence and sunny disposition, despite her trauma, make her such an amazing MC. How Finn treats her throughout the book is feet-kicking worthy.
Grumpy? ✔️ Secret Operative? ✔️ Tatted? ✔️ Treats this painter he runs into with gentleness, respect, and oceanside dates? Also ✔️. Finn falls hard, and no one can blame him, because we as readers fell in love with Lucie (and Finn), too. His banter is stunning, and their group dynamic with Charlie and Sabrina is so wholesome.
This is for us romantics who like a little mystery in our books. Think Safe Haven vibes. But be warned: there will be tears and a lot of emotions throughout this read.
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