Reviewer: Lori Graham
Title: Sweet Dreams
Author: Flo Fitzpatrick
Publisher: Hilliard and Harris
ISBN: 1-59133-095-5
Release Date: June 2005
Genre/Sub-genre: Romantic Suspense
Year/Setting: Current/New York
Overall rating: 5
Sexual content rating: Subtle/Sensual
Flo's Website: www.flofitzpatrick.com
Abby Fouchet grew up in Texas as a much loved daughter of a very protective, influential mother (her father was around too). Abby knew what she wanted out of her life and her dream was to dance, sing and act on Broadway (or any combination of these). She took the leap of faith in herself, in spite of her mother’s warnings and urgings, and moved to New York where she could make that dream come true. However, the dream didn’t come true as quickly as she would have liked so she continued taking classes to deepen her skills and got a job. In the process, she met Shay who invited her to live at Apartment Seven-D with her and Cherry, creating a friendship for life.
In the process of ongoing auditions, Abby does finally begin to get some roles and is cast in the chorus of Jesus Christ Superstar. One of the lead cast members turns out to be Johnny Gerard, lead character in the day time soap opera "Endless Times" and, of course, a major heart throb. The choreographer of this revival is quite inept and Abby ends up injured. Johnny helps her to the doctor, takes her home and the romance begins.
As the romance heats up, Abby discovers things about Johnny that confuse her, excite her, and concern her. She learns that he is the estranged son of Assistant District Attorney, Kiernan Gerard which confuses her. She is excited by Johnny’s incredible acting talent and his wanting to learn more about dancing (he didn’t start out very well) which is an area that she can aid him in. Her concern is escalated by the woman named Tracy who rides around in a white limo with Siegfried as her bodyguard who keeps showing up in Johnny’s life at unexpected moments and without explanation from Johnny. While these emotions run through Abby’s mind, her heart falls deeply in love and can’t be reasoned with.
Johnny is accused of a scandal that isn’t his but actually is his father’s problem. Abby is determined not to let Johnny’s life be ruined by this man especially after her vision. Abby has been gifted with second sight, as she calls it, which has been on the female side of her family for years. Abby’s vision consists of Johnny dying and she isn’t about to let that happen either. To that end, she enlists the aid of Cherry’s two self-described bodyguards, Vito and Guido, to help her.
I found this story to be absolutely delightful. Flo Fitzpatrick does an incredible job of weaving romance, suspense, and comedy all into one story. The characters are well thought out and remain fresh throughout the story. As each character weaves back into the story, you find yourself welcoming their entrance and wanting to learn more about them. While there are several supporting characters in this story, Flo gives you enough information about them so you are familiar with them but spends most of her time developing the main characters.
I was intrigued by the twists and turns she used to create the drama. The end of the mystery was truly a bit like an artichoke - you have to peel away to get to the heart of the truth. There were enough off-shots to keep you guessing though right up until the end. (You gotta stay up to finish it just so you know.)
I also have to admit I found this book to be an easy read in large part due to the mix of comedy which relieved some of the tension. It kept your attention but every once awhile there was a little something to make you laugh. The twins, Vito and Guido, for example were an interesting blend. Thin and not looking like much, Abby had to wonder how they could guard anything. However, they are full of self-confidence, have friends in the lowly places and are freakishly strong. But some of their antics and methods of dressing were absolutely a hoot.
Flo created a reading "braid" (I know - sounds strange). The mix of romance, comedy and suspense is masterful. Each one wouldn’t be much without the other and if not mixed in equal portions it would become tangled. This "braid" lays smoothly and evenly. Loved it!
Lori
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