Fiona Abry is a hardworking single-mother, living in Geneva and co-running the Abry watch company with her brother Daniel (MMC of book one, Ghosted). She has little time for love and even less time for a vacation, despite her brother's prodding and meddling.

But when Fiona's free-spirited mother gifts her an old family heirloom—a supposedly magical timepiece that lets the owner dream their greatest desires—Fiona begins having vivid dreams when she goes to sleep each night, of a very different life to her own, filled with the kind of love she never thought she’d find and sparking joy and purpose in her life anew.

Not much more can be said about this story without spoiling things, but much like the first two stories in the series, the magical realism at play in this romance is weighted in destiny and meant-to-be enchantment. It all takes a bit of suspension of disbelief, but that’s the fun and charm of this series, making the reader believe in the impossible and the wonder of fate.

This story was set before the events of book one and two, so, I guess, it can be easily read as a stand-alone, even though release order would be my preferred recommendation. I loved seeing Daniel pre-Jillian, all charming playboy with a lonely heart, and I enjoyed meeting Max, Fiona’s best friend and fellow socialite, who will be the MMC of the fourth series instalment, Wished.

This was the first work I have read by Sarah Ready, but it won’t be my last.

Fated is the third book in the Ghosted series. This book can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the first two, but I was able to follow the story perfectly.

The world building is phenomenal. I felt like I was transported to the beach or to Geneva. I could almost feel the sand under my feet as I was reading. I adored the characters. I really enjoyed all the characters, especially the FMC, Fiona. Her love and empathy for others shines through with everything she does. I also enjoy how nerdy she is about watches. The MMC, Aaron, is perfect. His words are heartfelt and poetic. So many times the interactions in this book brought me tears of joy or heartbreak. I would say this book definitely picks up after the first half. I could not put it down. It picks up even more after 75%, at which point you may want to seclude yourself so no one interrupts you.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. If you’re a fan of romances with a Hallmark feel to them, this is definitely for you.

Thank you NetGalley, Sarah Ready, and Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC for providing me with an ARC for exchange of an honest review.

Fated by Sarah Ready
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶

What I loved:
⌚️The premise and magical realism.
⌚️The ending twist that I did not see coming!
⌚️Aaron.

While I have been loving all things Sarah Ready, I was nervous about this because I didn't like Switched, the prior book in this series. I had no need to worry. Fated is everything I've been loving about these magical realism romance stories.

I absolutely loved this premise. I loved the idea of falling asleep and being transported to your true love. Aaron was such a swoon worthy MMC. The MCs were great together. The chemistry and tension were on point. My heart broke for Aaron so many times. How he recognized Fiona even when she wasn't in her own body stole my heart. I also really, really loved the found family in this for Fiona. She had a great arc, too.

If there's one thing I consistently love on Ready novels, it's the descriptions. She perfectly captures her settings and characters. I felt like I was on the beach with Aaron and Fiona. I could see the Abry offices. I could effortlessly picture the characters. The writing was beautiful and transportative.

The end was insane in the best way. I didn't see the twist coming, and my heart broke for Fiona. I loved the falling action and resolution. It was an incredible ending that made the book that much better.

While I loved most everything about this, there were a few things that bothered me. One thing that annoyed me was how long it took for Fiona to figure out it wasn't a dream. It just dragged on too long. Also, the beginning was quite slow and was difficult for me to get into. I understood Fiona freaking out the first time she dreamed, but some of her reactions felt ridiculous. Another thing is the ending. It felt so rushed. This I'd a common complaint from me for most of Ready's novels, though. The resolution needs more than an epilogue. It's always so quick and leaves me slightly dissatisfied.

Overall, I surprisingly enjoyed this. After Switched and the slow beginning, I was nervous, but once the book got going, I was hooked. This was such a cute, fun, and unique story. Plus, I'm a sucker for magical realism, and I love how Ready incorporates it into her novels. I am so excited to read the next one, and I recommend to anyone looking for a little magic in their romances.

Interesting concept.

Fiona works at her family's watch shop.
Her mother gives her a family heirloom,
Only it it said to have magical capabilities.

Fast forward & Fiona is transported to an alternate life
Where she meets and falls in love with a man.

It was a cutesy magical hallmark type.

I didn't read the first two,
But did enjoy this one without.

3 ⭐

This is the third book in the "Ghosted" series. I haven't read the first two books, but I think this book is fine as a standalone, there isn't any overlap of the story between books, just the characters. I absolutely loved this book, I could not put it down. Sarah Ready has written it so well and it really captures the emotions of the characters and I can picture the scenes so vividly thanks to her descriptions.

Fiona is Swiss/English and has taken over her family's prestigious watch company alongside her younger brother. One day she receives a watch from a Great Uncle who tells her the watch can show her what she desires/dreams to have in her life so she falls asleep with the watch and is transported to an island in the Caribbean where she takes over the body of a woman named Becca, who is married to Aaron McCormick and they have two children together - Amy and Sean. While being Becca, she falls in love with Aaron but this complicates things as the real Becca is not in love with Aaron and is planning to leave him, their children and the island to be with Robert, Aaron's best friend.

Fiona believes this is all just a dream and that Aaron isn't real, but then she finds out he is. So she sets out to find him again in her dreams and tell him who she is and how to find her. Thankfully he believes her, he can sense Becca is a different person when Fi is inhabiting her body, so he sets out to find her.

I loved both Aaron and Fiona, they're both caring, accepting and loving people who deserve the best. Aaron is sweet and committed to his family even though he knows Becca has never been happy in their relationship and didn't want to have kids, he also knows she's been having an affair with Robert and is determined not to stand in her way when she eventually goes. Fiona is a single mum and she loves her daughter, her brother and her best friend Max. She's down to earth even though she's wealthy, she doesn't take anyone for granted and she's especially proud of her family's watch company.

I'll definitely be going back and reading the first two books and I'm looking forward to the release of the 4th!

Thanks to NetGalley and Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

This is the third book in the Ghosted series by Sarah Ready. I really enjoyed Sarah’s second book Switched so was excited to be able to read this one and it did not fail.

This book follows, single mum of one Fiona who gets given a long lost family heirloom- a watch by her absent whilst growing up mother. She’s heard things about this watch and how it can make you dream your greatness desires. Was Fiona’s first dream really her desire or did she already have the most perfect life?

There was something in the way Sarah wrote this book that had me completely invested and hooked. I have to admit I’m not really one of those dreamy romantic type girls but throughout this book I was rooting for Fiona and wondering if she would get her happily ever after.

I'm not really a sucker for romance but I have myself enjoying this book. I didn't want it to end. I'll read more from the author

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.

This is book 3 of the "Ghosted" series and I think this is my favorite so far! Sarah Ready has penned some clever plots in this series filled with romance and magical realism. This time we have love found in a dream world...but is it only a dream?

Fiona is a single mom who is an overworked businesswoman trying to keep the family watch business afloat. She doesn't have the time (nor does she trust matters of the heart!) but makes a bet with her brother to keep an open mind to a relationship/love. Fiona's mother (the woman who abandoned her!) gives her a magical watch that is supposed to show you your heart's desire through your dreams. Now her nights are spent in a dream world where she is married to Aaron with two children...a world she is falling in love with not only her surroundings on an island but with the people, too. Especially her husband...

I adored the romance between Aaron and Fi. The relationship felt organic as the two slowly let down their walls and opened their hearts to each other. Their family on the island was so sweet! It was heart retching to see the damage Becca (the real wife Fiona was switching places with!) and Robert (his best friend!) did during the time frame when she woke up and went back to her awake world. GRRRRR!

In the "real world" Fiona had her daughter Mila and her best friend Max who was vying for a romantic relationship with her. What's a girl to do when she is in love with a dream man when she has a safe, comfortable option in the real world? The way the story played out with the twists and turns and gut punching revelations! But thankfully, the author brings us full circle and gives us the perfect ending!

Looking forward to Max's story!

5 stars

Thank you, NetGalley and Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for this free copy for review. This was a cute addition in the series. Although I have read the other books, you do not need to read the other 2 previous books to enjoy this book as this is a stand-alone story. Fiona meets the man of her dreams.... in her dreams. In her dream, she is lives on a small tropical island and married, but she is falling in love with him. But he just exists in her dream.

Sarah Ready’s Fated is a captivating contemporary romance with a delightful blend of fantasy elements that adds a unique twist to the genre. The novel explores the theme of destiny and the magic of love through an engaging and imaginative storyline.

The characters are well-drawn and dynamic, with their development providing both depth and relatability. The protagonist's journey of self-discovery and their romantic entanglements are portrayed with emotional sincerity, making their experiences compelling and heartfelt. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, adding a layer of warmth and intimacy to the narrative.

The fantasy elements are woven into the plot in a way that enhances rather than overshadows the romance. The blend of magical and real-world elements offers a fresh and enjoyable twist, though some readers might find certain aspects of the plot predictable if they’re familiar with the genre.

While the pacing is generally steady, there are moments where the story slows down due to detailed descriptions or introspective passages. However, these sections contribute to the overall depth and atmosphere of the book. The resolution of the central romance is satisfying and leaves a lasting impression.

Fated is a charming and imaginative read that combines contemporary romance with fantasy in a way that feels both unique and heartwarming. It’s an excellent choice for fans of romantic fiction looking for a story with a touch of magic and a lot of heart.

Thank you netgalley for providing me ARC access!

This book wasn't anything like I thought it would be and ended up being way better. I originally wasn't feeling the main character being soooo wealthy and thought her aspect of wanting to dream a better life would be more compelling from someone from a lower socioeconomic class, but I did come to see why the luxury swiss watch heiress part of character mattered. And also this book was rich with description and decadence and having a very wealth main character lends itself well to more opportunities to describe opulence. I was pleasantly surprised by the turns the plot took and did find myself incredibly emotionally invested. At times I was so stressed out the only way I could move forward was knowing it was a romance novel that guaranteed a happily ever after and I would have been devastated if it didn't deliver but it DID!

One of the most emotionally captivating romance novels I've ever read and a sweet representation of second marriages/blended families. Would recommend!

This is my second book by the author and I was positively surprised again!! This one specifically was written so beautifully, Fiona and Aaron won me over individually AND as a couple, their romance was breathtaking and for me they really should be the new meaning of soulmates. The author managed to achieve the perfect balance between reality and magical elements, I’d HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Ashley Poston's writing.

Another 5 star read by Sarah Ready!

I don’t know how she does it, but her books have an absolute chokehold on me every single time. I didn’t want to put this one down. Such a beautiful story about following your heart, allowing yourself to love, and knowing your true happiness is out there.

Amazing. Heart warming. Page turner. Just the best.

4.5 stars

This is my favourite of the series so far. I love Aaron and Fiona!!! I'm a little sad for Max but I am glad his book is next and he will find his happily ever after in the next book. Although I know that they don't fit and Fiona and Aaron are soulmates so I am glad with how the book ended! I also hope that Nina is not frogotten about because I feel like as much as she isn't happy in her 'real' life, her daughter shouldn't be overshadowed.

Thank you Netgalley, Sarah Ready, and Swift & Lewis Publishing LLC for the Advance Listeners Copy

I am a big fan of Sarah Ready and have recently read and enjoyed “Ghosted“. Fated was even better, it was intriguing from start to finish. I listened to this audiobook and was drawn into every word. The beautiful settings were amazing and relaxed you as did the narrator’s voice. A beautiful story, Sarah is a fantastic writer and very unique. A must listen or read for any romantic reading fan. Highly recommend. Thank you so much to Netgalley, publisher and author for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook and enjoy.

"Fated" by Sarah Ready masterfully plays with classic romance tropes, blending elements of fate, second chances, and soulmates into a fresh and engaging narrative.

The story follows two characters drawn together by an undeniable force, challenging their preconceived notions about love and destiny.
Sarah Ready skillful use of these tropes feels both familiar and innovative, with well-drawn characters and an emotionally charged plot that keeps readers invested.
The novel explores the idea of whether love is written in the stars or shaped by choice, making "Fated" a thought-provoking and satisfying read for fans of romantic fiction.

In true Sarah Ready fashion "Fated" is a story unlike any other I have ever read! With her enthralling writing she pulls you into this world and the characters within. Fiona is such a real character with flaws and all. If you want a romance that feels real and may just be a dream come true, then you should definitely check this one out.

I will read anything that Sarah Ready writes because all of her stories are so innovative and her writing hypnotizing - this novel was not any different. While there were aspects of the story that didn't work for me personally, because of the triggers listed below, I really did enjoy this novel. The characters were perfectly imperfect and really ran the gambit of characteristics. There was romance, trauma, disaster, healing and many a swoon-worthy moment!

There were a lot of ick cheating feelings that this book brought on. I felt bad for Sam the entire time, Phoebe put him through so much and I can't even imagine how horrible it would be dealing with "his wives" oscillating feelings. If you decide to read this book, go in knowing that these themes of cheating are prominent throughout. I also struggled because I really wanted Fiona and Max to end up together - he seemed like such an amazing person and was so graceful and loving to her throughout.

I will always and forever recommend Sarah Ready. She is one of my go to authors. Every romance lover or contemporary fiction lover I know should read this. It is not just a romance, but a story of growth and getting out of our own way. I can't wait to see what comes next in this series!

"I'm in love wiith a dream, with a man who isn't real, and there isn't any coming back from it."


I'm not going to lie, I wasn't sure what to expect of this one. It was intriguing, but I often found myself annoyed with the FMC in the beginning. However, as the book progressed I couldn't put it down. I HAD to know what happened next, all the way to the end. 4/5 stars if for no reason other than Fiona was a little much sometimes, and it lacked the spice of my usual reads.


Fiona Abry is the HBIC. A single mom running  a thriving watchmaking business with her little brother, Daniel. She has little time for anything but work and her daughter, brother, and best friend Max. After a tragic Christmas Eve, her "go with the wind" free spirit of a mother gives her a watch. Not just any watch, the first watch her family's company ever made. It's said to allow you to live your dreams, your greatest desires will be right there in front of you. 


Curious, Fiona decides to test the legend and immediately finds herself swept up on an island shes never seen before, in a body that isn't her own, and married to a man she feels a strange connection to, even though shes told their spark is long gone - if it ever existed to begin with.


As Fi travels through this dream world, night after night, she falls more and more in love with the people in it, including her "husband." But Fi is rational, she knows it isn't real. She wants to stop, but finds that she can't fight her feelings for this man when it FEELS so real. Somehow she has to choose between her dream world, and the real world 


This story sweeps you in, keeps you guessing how it'll wrap up and delivers the sweetest ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this read because of how it made me feel. 

I'm thankful to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC :)

“Everyone knows that dreams are where we tell ourselves the truth.”

Fiona co-owns and runs her family’s watch making business with her brother Daniel.

Fiona’s best friend, Max, is in love with her.

But, then there’s the man of her very literal dreams… McCormick.

“Would it be so dangerous to love him? Would it be so wrong to fall irrevocably in love with a dream?”

“If you can fall for a dream, you can fall for me. I’ll spend mountains of money, I’ll take the time, and I’ll find a way to give you sparks. That way, when I propose, you’ll say yes.”

“I’m scared he’ll leave me. That even in a dream I’ll be left behind.”

“If you ever need me, if you ever find yourself awake at night wanting me, I’ll be here. I’ll be loving you.”


“The world snaps, pulls, shudders, and then as suddenly as an island falling into the sea, as quickly as diving into the depths of the sea, I remember.”

“I believe in love. I think just about anything is possible. I’m going to spend my life with you. I thought I’d let you know.”

Such a beautifully written love story. Has you hooked right from the start. The author has written it so that you really feel like you are in the story and experiencing the love, sadness and everything else for real. I felt like I was literally in Geneva one moment and then on the island the next because of how the author described each place and could see it all so clearly. It's just amazing how words can do that.