A review by rosierosereads
A Theory of Dreaming by Ava Reid

emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A Theory of Dreaming invites us back into Effy and Preston’s story as the duo now have to face the consequences of the publication of their thesis that exposed the truth about the Llyrian national favorite, Angharad. As Effy takes up her position as the only woman in the literature college she’s forced to deal with the misogyny and threats pointed at her but she no longer has the reprieve the realm of the Fairy King once offered her. Preston, faced with grief and fear, has to navigate increasingly hostile anti-Argantian sentimentality while balancing his advisor’s next attempts at  monumental academic discovery. While one turns the world of dreams for refugee the other turns to the promise of oblivion, but will either option truly help? 

After I found myself severely disappointed by Reid’s dystopian novel, Fable for the End of the World, I was hesitant to jump into this one. It’d been a while since I read A Study in Drowning but after reading some reviews and recaps of book one, I found it easy to slip back into Effy and Preston’s story. Reid’s lyrical, gothic inspired prose was back on forceful display and I absolutely loved the setting of university in the winter she brought to life on page, a true treat for dark academia enjoyers. I loved the inclusion of quotes and excerpts from the literary works in this world that were woven throughout. I found the development of the politics and the further commentary on stories and myths that inspire nationalism to be well developed. I also enjoyed seeing more of Rhia and Lotto and exploring Effy and Preston’s characters through the lens of friendship. 

This second installment truly examines the question of “Can love be enough” in some ways that feel extremely human and difficult to confront. Effy and Preston are now in an established relationship, but that doesn’t mean they’ve gotten their happy ever after, or that such a thing is even possible despite their love for one another. What happens when the harshness of realities and the fears of your effect on your partner become too much?

As in A Study in Drowning, Reid staunchly approaches the struggles of mental illness and fighting to overcome past traumas. And while I appreciate that approach, I truly don’t think this book (or duology) should be marketed as a YA. It deals with some incredibly heavy topics and lacks trigger warnings in the opening pages or authors note. Paired with Reid’s writing style, unless critically engaging with the work, the nuance of her approach to these topics is easy to miss. This book should firmly be marketed as new adult. 

I’d recommend this to adults who enjoyed Rebecca Ross’s Divine Rivals, Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House and Alex Harrow’s Starling House. 

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the e-arc. A Theory in Dreaming is set to publish on July 29, 2025. 
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