Wishful Dreaming by K.L. Laettner is a poignant exploration of the intricacies of love, life, and the paths not taken. Laettner's prose is beautifully crafted, weaving a narrative that captures both the complexity and the simplicity of its characters' lives. This novel, rich with emotional depth and keen observation, offers readers a compelling journey through the desires and realities that shape us.

The narrative follows Eleanor, a middle-aged woman grappling with the quiet discontent of her seemingly perfect suburban life. As she confronts the mundanity of her days—filled with routine family meals, superficial interactions with neighbors, and the unspoken tensions of a cooling marriage—she stumbles upon a series of old letters tucked away in the attic. Written by her youthful self to the man she dreamt of marrying but never did, these letters stir within her a tumult of regret and unresolved longing.

Laettner excels in crafting Eleanor’s psychological landscape, presenting a character that is both relatable and deeply individual. Her internal monologue, filled with both wit and melancholy, propels the narrative and allows the reader intimate access to her profound emotional journey. As Eleanor reads through her old dreams penned in ink, she begins to question the choices that led her to her present life, sparking a quiet revolution against her complacent existence.

The secondary characters are equally well-drawn, adding vibrant layers to the story. From Eleanor's distant husband, whose own insecurities and unmet aspirations slowly unravel through the subplot, to her spirited daughter who challenges the very conventions Eleanor feels bound by, Laettner uses her cast to mirror and contrast with the protagonist’s internal conflict.

A pivotal element of Wishful Dreaming is Laettner's exploration of the theme of time—the lost time, the passage of time, and times of revelation. The nonlinear narrative, with its seamless interweaving of Eleanor’s past and present, enhances this exploration, creating a tapestry of moments that highlight the transformative power of facing one's own truths. The author's manipulation of time is not just a plot device but a profound commentary on the fluidity of life and the continuous possibilities for change.

Laettner's writing style is lyrical yet accessible, filled with metaphors that paint vivid images and emotions. Her descriptions of the mundane—suburban homes with their lurking sameness or the changing colors of the sky reflecting Eleanor's shifting perceptions—are rendered with such detail that they almost become characters in their own right. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the setting not just supports but enhances the emotional tenor of the narrative.

However, it's not just introspection and poetic prose that define this novel. The plot of Wishful Dreaming carries a palpable tension, making the book hard to put down. The unfolding of Eleanor’s decisions, prompted by her rediscovery of the letters, drives the narrative forward with suspense and anticipation. Each chapter ends on a note that compels the reader to turn the page, eager to discover the consequences of her newfound assertiveness.

The thematic depth of the book is remarkable. Beyond the personal story of Eleanor, Laettner touches on universal themes such as the ideals versus the realities of love, the significance of dreams, and the courage required to change one's life. These themes are expertly folded into the characters' lives, prompting readers to reflect on their own choices and the dreams they have shelved.

In conclusion, Wishful Dreaming by K.L. Laettner is a masterfully written novel that offers a deep, introspective look at life’s complexities through the lens of an ordinary yet extraordinary woman’s awakening. It is a testament to the quiet power of change and the enduring impact of youthful hopes. For readers who enjoy richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and narratives that speak to both personal and universal truths, this book is a highly recommended read. Eleanor's journey, marked by her rediscovery, regret, and eventual revival, is not just her own but echoes the silent questions many of us carry within us.