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madlyreading 's review for:
A Theory of Dreaming
by Ava Reid
Rating this book was hard, because my reading experience was greater than a typical 3 star read, but this is mainly because I have a parasocial connection with Ava Reid through following them on instagram. I know through their (IG) stories that Effy and Preston are characters meant to represent them and their spouse, which I think connected me to the characters more than the writing did. Further, I know that Reid has had mental health struggles that parallel Effy’s, and I don’t believe the writing is what made me feel as strongly as I did while reading.
There are some world building issues in this book, and perhaps a reading of the first book closer in time to reading this one would have helped. I was unsure why the war was going on, and the animosity the majority of characters felt towards Preston’s heritage felt a bit over the top for no real reason. I also struggled with the lack of explanation of the magic in this world, something I remember experiencing in the first book. I was intrigued by Preston’s journey, but I didn’t understand why anything was happening, or what it meant.
That all being said, I very much enjoyed reading this book, and I think most who enjoyed the first will enjoy this one, as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
There are some world building issues in this book, and perhaps a reading of the first book closer in time to reading this one would have helped. I was unsure why the war was going on, and the animosity the majority of characters felt towards Preston’s heritage felt a bit over the top for no real reason. I also struggled with the lack of explanation of the magic in this world, something I remember experiencing in the first book. I was intrigued by Preston’s journey, but I didn’t understand why anything was happening, or what it meant.
That all being said, I very much enjoyed reading this book, and I think most who enjoyed the first will enjoy this one, as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Drug abuse, Misogyny, Suicidal thoughts, Violence, Xenophobia, Grief, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Classism