01 Aug Book Review of A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning, #2)
Book Review: A Theory of Dreaming (A Study in Drowning, #2) by Ava Reid
I can’t even begin to express my excitement when I discovered Ava Reid had written a sequel to A Study in Drowning. It was like Christmas morning for a bookworm, each page a gift of immersion and discovery! After the cliffhanger ending of the first book, I was practically doing a happy dance on my couch, ready to dive back into the intriguing world Reid had crafted. A Theory of Dreaming brings back Effy and Preston, and what a wild ride it is as they navigate the post-exposé reality of their lives and the tumultuous world around them.
This sequel takes us deeper into the consequences of Effy and Preston’s groundbreaking article, which exposed Angharad Myrddin as the rightful author of the celebrated novel Angharad. As they return to the academy, it quickly becomes clear that winning this battle doesn’t guarantee peace. Effy, still grappling with her past under the fairy king’s control, seems to drown in her own apprehensions, leaning too heavily on sleeping pills and the escapism of her dreams. Meanwhile, Preston—wonderful, stoic Preston—uncovers a deeper, romantic side as he engages in a secret project with Professor Gosse that blurs the line between dreams and reality. His transformation is captivating, evoking a sense of urgency as he struggles against societal prejudices and a brewing war. Reid expertly weaves themes of injustice and resilience throughout the intricate tapestry of academia that makes you want to root for these beloved characters even more.
The writing style is nothing short of mesmerizing. Reid possesses this remarkable ability to craft sentences that glide smoothly, allowing readers to fully inhabit the story’s swirling dreamscapes and dark undertones. The pacing ebbs and flows, mirroring the unpredictable nature of dreams themselves. In moments that challenge Effy’s stability, readers can almost feel the weight of her struggles, inviting a sense of empathy and urgency. One moment that struck me particularly hard was when Preston reflects on the fragility of the only connection he has left. It’s haunting, yet beautifully relatable—a testament to how love can be both a sanctuary and a prison.
As the story unfolds, I found myself constantly amazed by how revisiting Effy and Preston’s world also rekindled my admiration for Reid’s masterful critique of myth and legend. The narrative not only engages fantasy lovers but also prompts thoughtful discussions about the biases rooted in institutional structures. I cherished the moments spent in the intricate dream world and was captivated by the revelations uncovered in the diary.
In conclusion, A Theory of Dreaming is a phenomenal sequel that fans of the first book will revel in. I truly believe that anyone who enjoys richly woven narratives filled with complex characters and thought-provoking themes will appreciate this installment. Reid’s storytelling resonates deeply, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever felt both the weariness of reality and the pull of dreams. I was both touched and thrilled by the experience, and it has reignited my passion for coming-of-age fantastical adventures.
So grab your copy, find a cozy spot, and prepare to be swept away! Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books for providing this gem to review. Let’s just say my reading list just became a lot more exciting! Happy reading, fellow literary adventurers!
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