In Dorothy Elizabeth Love's When Dreams Float, Melanie meets Winston by chance in an airport, sending them both on an adventure filled with self-discovery and romance. Even though they are travelling to Tahiti for very different reasons, they are drawn to each other and eventually bond during a luxury cruise through the beautiful Society Islands of French Polynesia. Melanie bears wounds from her past and struggles to heal after a difficult previous marriage. But Winston’s kindness and love encourage her to open her heart to new beginnings once more. Just as their romance begins to grow even deeper, Winston’s ex-girlfriend, Daphne, intrudes upon their blossoming happiness. As tension and emotions escalate, the only question that matters is if Melanie and Winston’s romance can survive this chaotic storm.

When Dreams Float by Dorothy Elizabeth Love wholeheartedly explores the possibility of new beginnings and the wonder of forming deep, unexpected romantic connections. The characters will captivate you with their charming story. Through Melanie’s eyes, we get to see the narrative unfold from the viewpoint of inner healing. Winston's character adds gentleness and strength to the novel, while building a storyline that feels both passionate and sincere. Ms. Love is a master at portraying emotions with openness and candor. Melanie’s inner conflict, as she slowly learns to trust again, is very relatable. I love how Winston isn't just some random potential love interest whose only role is to add steam to the story. He actually helps Melanie explore personal growth and freedom along the way. Even Daphne’s arrival brings welcome drama to the forefront. Overall, the story and its beautiful, picturesque moments unfold impeccably. I almost wished the book didn't have to end. If you're a fan of sizzling, dramatic, exciting romance, this alluring novel has it all.

When Dreams Float by Dorothy Elizabeth Love follows Melanie McDae, a travel writer recovering from a painful divorce, as she embarks on a Tahitian cruise with her bold best friend, Sandra. On the trip, she crosses paths with Winston Knight, a successful doctor whose confidence masks his own regrets and loneliness. Their chance meeting in an airport jewelry shop blossoms into unexpected chemistry on the flight, and it later intensifies aboard the Paul Gauguin cruise. Set against the lush islands of French Polynesia, their relationship moves from playful flirting to passionate intimacy while testing both characters’ ability to trust again. Along the way, Melanie must decide whether she can let go of her past heartbreak, and Winston must show he is more than a charming flirt. Together, they learn that love doesn’t always arrive planned, but sometimes floats into life when least expected. 

What makes When Dreams Float shine is how it doubles as a romance and a travel experience. The descriptions of Raiatea’s waterfalls, Moorea’s mountain ridges, and even the art-filled halls create an immersive backdrop that feels almost cinematic. Melanie and Winston’s chemistry has both heat and humor; their first kiss during turbulence is charged yet tender, and Sandra’s comic relief (like joking about “McDonald’s in Tahiti”) keeps the tone playful. There are moments where the pacing circles too long around Melanie’s doubts, but this also reflects how real healing rarely moves in a straight line. The title works on multiple levels; it nods to the cruise setting but also to the way dreams drift uncertainly until anchored by choice and courage. While Winston’s determination may sometimes come across as too assertive, his vulnerability gives balance, and Melanie’s gradual opening feels earned. For readers who enjoy destination romances that combine sensuality with second-chance themes, this book offers both escape and heart. It earns 5 stars for its lush setting, memorable moments, and a love story that, while imperfect, lingers like the scent of Tiare flowers.