Book Review: In Your Dreams: A Novel (Rome, Kentucky) by Sarah Adams
Introduction
Sarah Adams, the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of When in Rome, Practice Makes Perfect, and Beg, Borrow, or Steal, concludes her beloved Rome, Kentucky series with In Your Dreams (2025). At ~368 pages (Delacorte Press), this final installment is a heartfelt, small-town rom-com centered on second chances, family ties, and slow-burn romance. As the fourth book in the Rome, Kentucky series (often tied to her “When in Rome” branding), it brings Madison Walker home to her roots while sparking a tender, drama-filled connection with her brother’s best friend. Released as a New York Times bestseller and praised for its cozy charm and emotional warmth, the book wraps the series with nostalgia and joy. In early 2026, it remains a comforting favorite for fans of feel-good contemporaries like those by Abby Jimenez or B.K. Borison.
Content and Structure
The story follows Madison “Maddie” Walker, who left Rome, Kentucky, to chase culinary dreams in New York but returns with shattered confidence after years of setbacks. Desperate for a fresh start, she accepts an unexpected offer to become head chef at a new farm-to-table restaurant—backed by none other than James Huxley, owner of Huxley Farm and her brother Noah’s lifelong best friend.
James, a steady, hardworking farmer, impulsively makes the offer after a vulnerable late-night call from Maddie. Their reunion is awkward: old familiarity clashes with new tension. Maddie navigates kitchen chaos, family dynamics (including her protective siblings and the Walker clan), and James’s quiet support. What begins as professional collaboration evolves into something deeper—shared late nights at the farm, banter over produce, and moments that force both to confront insecurities and unspoken feelings.
The narrative alternates dual POVs, blending lighthearted rom-com moments (small-town quirks, family meddling) with deeper emotional beats (Maddie’s self-doubt, James’s hidden vulnerabilities). The pacing is cozy and engaging, building to heartfelt revelations and a satisfying happily-ever-after that ties up the series’ found-family threads.
Key Themes and Takeaways
Central is coming home—to family, self, and love—after chasing dreams that didn’t fit. Themes include rebuilding confidence, the comfort of roots, second chances in relationships, and the joy of simple, honest connection. Adams celebrates small-town life, sibling bonds, and the healing power of community while exploring mental health, failure, and self-worth with gentle empathy. The romance is sweet and slow-burn—friends-to-lovers with plenty of pining and tenderness.
Strengths and Criticisms
Strengths: Adams’ signature warmth shines—banter sparkles, characters feel like old friends, and the Rome, Kentucky setting is cozy and vivid. Maddie’s growth is relatable; James is a swoony, supportive hero. Emotional depth surprises without heaviness; fans praise the “comfort read” quality and satisfying series close. High ratings (~4.3/5 on Goodreads/Amazon) highlight its heart and re-readability.
Criticisms: Some find tropes familiar (homecoming, brother’s best friend) or pacing gentle to the point of low stakes. A few note lighter conflict compared to earlier books, though most appreciate the cozy tone.
Conclusion
In Your Dreams is a tender, uplifting finale to the Rome, Kentucky series—full of laughter, longing, and love. Sarah Adams crafts a heartfelt homecoming story that feels like a warm hug. Rated 4.4/5 for charm, emotion, and cozy romance. Perfect for fans of small-town rom-coms, second-chance tropes, or anyone needing a feel-good escape. If you’ve loved the Walker family, this goodbye will leave you smiling—and perhaps craving a trip to Rome, Kentucky.