A Theory in Dreaming dives even deeper into its world of eerie magic and mystery. Unfortunately, I had a hard time getting into the first book. While the premise and themes were interesting, the writing felt slow and hard to engage with. This time around, since I was already used to the writing style, it was easier to settle into the story and appreciate the details.

While this book didn’t feel as suspenseful as the first, the magic was still front and center, and there were plenty of mysteries for Preston to unravel. Even when the pacing was a little slow, the story had enough appeal to keep me going.

One of the things I really enjoyed was learning more about Preston. Getting inside his head, understanding his family, and seeing how someone so logical handles being surrounded by magic—while still refusing to believe in it—was fascinating. His relationship with Effy also grew in a way that felt natural, and I liked seeing her character develop even more. Effy’s battles with mental health and feelings of unworthiness were really relatable and handled in such a gentle and caring manner. The author's ability to blend these real-world struggles into a world filled with magic so seamlessly was seriously impressive.

Overall, I enjoyed A Theory in Dreaming and would recommend the duology to readers who appreciate rich, old-world-style writing, unique and lovable characters, and stories where logic and magic collide in thoughtful ways.

Really cozy read and follow up for A Study in Drowning. I loved Preston and Effy together, as well as the introduction of new characters. I did feel like there were some aspects of the story that were unexplored, such as Effy's relationship with her mother and grandparents. I thought the magic system was a little confusing in this book and I did not really understand how it worked in this world. Definitely thought it was emotional toward the end. Thank you for allowing me to review this ARC!

A Study in Drowning was a book I loved and I think this built off of it perfectly. Ava Reid has such a way with storytelling and I great enjoyed this book. I think it reminds the reader of why we love these characters while at the same time making us learn more about them and the world around them. I love seeing their relationship and companionship grow more and also learning more about the world, school, and history of the story and society they are in.

“What a ruthless privilege it was, he thought, to love.”

First off, I’m so happy and honored to have received an ARC so thank you so much to HarperCollins and NetGalley!!

Ava Reid touches again on such important topics- grief, trauma, and prejudice. This book explored how two broken people can overcome, or cope, with their own issues and struggles while trying to learn to share your life and yourself with someone else.

She immerses you into the storyline and keeps you wondering where the mystery is leading. This book had similar elements to A Study In Drowning but was more focused on Preston, and his own inner warfare.

I enjoyed getting to see these characters’ stories wrap up after the events that have shaped them (for better or for worse).

If you enjoyed A Study In Drowning, I think you will like this book. It IS heavier than Drowning (make sure to review the trigger warnings). Dreaming didn’t elicit quite the level of feminine rage that Drowning did. There was still plenty, but this book deals with Xenophobia, war, the way that people in power use fear to control the populace etc. as well as similar examples of sexism that we saw in drowning, so there was plenty of outrage. It was difficult to read at times given the current climate of the world and it wasn’t as straightforward as Drowning. There was a lot going on with 2 POVs and both MC struggling with depression and/or anxiety. The subject matter is definitely deep, and relevant and challenging, but it was a relatable story about two characters I love, things were a bit bittersweet but I was happy by the end. We also got to spend more time with and meet some new side characters that offered needed comic relief and comfort for our characters. If Drowning was a creepy mystery, Dreaming is more of an “us against the world”. Again, make sure to review the trigger warnings as there are a number of difficult topics.

This sequel is even darker than the first, delving deeply into Effy and Preston’s fight against the corruption in academia, the unethical politics at play, and the societal prejudices they face. The challenges they encounter are intense and uncomfortable, sparking a strong desire to protect them from the people around them who wear a mask of kindness but are anything but. The dream world, which adds an extra layer of intrigue, was a highlight for me, especially with the stunning twist uncovered in the diary. It was such a treat to spend more time with Effy and Preston, two characters I’ve grown fond of from A Study in Drowning. I was captivated by the book’s dark, mystical atmosphere, as well as its rich mythology, which critiques how myths and legends are often distorted into unquestioned truths.

This is an outstanding sequel, rich in complexity and tension, and it’s an absolute must-read. However, I highly recommend reading the first book first to fully appreciate the characters’ development and the intricacies of their world. Without that context, some of the emotional weight and deeper themes may be lost.

A Theory of Dreaming by Ava Reid is an absolute dream of a book—lush, haunting, and beautifully written. Reid’s metaphorical prose is pure magic, wrapping you in a world where myth and reality blur in the most stunning way. The world-building is even richer this time around, pulling you deeper into the eerie, poetic lore of the Sleepers and the histories of Caer-Isel and Argant.

But the heart of it all? Effy and Preston. Their romance is tender, messy, and full of tension, making every moment between them feel raw and real. It’s the kind of love story that lingers, just like the book itself. Dark, dreamy, and utterly mesmerizing—this one’s a must-read.

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and HarperCollins Children's Books for this advanced copy.! You can pick up A Theory of Dreaming on July 29, 2025.

Ava Reid once again sweeps us away to a magical, war-torn land where truth and myth intertwine. After rereading A Study in Drowning, I found myself excited to return to Llyr and learn what our two protagonists encounter as they try to prove Angharad wrote her book.

This story definitely started a bit slower for me, as Effy and Preston navigate troubles within the University and public backlash against their project, For me, the middle is when things picked up and we saw the consequences of Effy and Preston's actions hit even harder. Effy, the first woman to be accepted to the literature college, faces rampant sexism and misogyny in her classes, and yet still seeks to tell the buried stories of young women and, specifically, female authors.

Preston, meanwhile, is having a literal magical episode that transports him to an underwater palace in his dreams. But when his dreams begin to conflate with the real world, it could have a devastating effect on the ones he loves.

I loved the ending of this story and the overall growth we see from Effy and Preston throughout the two books. If you're looking for a lush, gothic world full of academics and dreamers who fight for a better life, this is your book!

DNF - 19%

I found A Study in Drowning to be rather disappointing, but I had hopes that getting more of Preston's side of things in A Theory of Dreaming would make this more interesting. Ava Reid is a good writer in her prose, but the plot and characters are lacking in this world. I was extremely bored. I may try again at a later date, but at the moment, this just isn't for me.

I am still going to try her other book, Fable for the End of the World because that premise seems interesting. If that doesn't go well, then I'll know Reid just isn't the author for me.

4⭐️ Ava Reid never disappoints with her writing. In this one we continue on with Effy and Preston as they return to university and we get to see the aftermath of what happened in A Study in Drowning. Effy goes through so much being the first woman admitted to the literature college and the feminine rage inside me was fuming. 😤 But I wasn’t the only one… We get to see a very protective side of Preston in this one. Although it is dual POV I feel like he’s more so the plot of this one.

☁️ The world building in this was stunning I could really picture and envision this fantasy world that her and Preston created. The writing was so beautiful and poetic. So many great quotes in this.

💙 The romance was so cute and sweet and wholesome 🥹 Preston is just the kindest most perfect protective boyfriend. My poor girl Effy goes through so much and he’s so supportive.

Please check your triggers before reading this ❤️‍🩹

A Captivating Conclusion to a Dark Academia Duology – 4.5/5 Stars

A Theory of Dreaming by Ava Reid is a stunning and thought-provoking sequel to A Study in Drowning, bringing Effy and Preston’s haunting journey to a poignant and satisfying close. Reid’s lush, immersive world-building and her ability to blend dark academia with elements of fantasy are on full display here, making this a must-read for fans of the duology and newcomers alike.

Effy has finally found a place for herself after the tumultuous events of A Study in Drowning, earning her spot at the prestigious literature college. Yet, even as she attempts to settle into her new life, the shadow of her past—and the dangerous, unresolved nature of her dreams—looms large. The pressures she faces as the first woman to enroll at the college and the weight of national expectations create a suffocating atmosphere that perfectly mirrors the internal conflict of the novel.

Preston’s journey is equally compelling. As he begins to experience vivid dreams of a palace under the sea, his descent into his own nightmares feels inevitable, and his struggle to maintain his identity in the face of such powerful visions is hauntingly relatable. The tension between Effy and Preston as they navigate their shared and individual dreams, identities, and desires is palpable and deeply emotional.

Reid’s prose is lyrical and evocative, with a dreamlike quality that immerses readers fully in the narrative. The symbolism and themes of dreams, identity, and the nature of fantasy are explored with intelligence and nuance, making this book more than just a fantastical love story—it’s an exploration of self, of facing the truths that haunt us, and the danger of losing ourselves in a world of dreams.

The pacing is steady, though some readers might find it a bit slow at times, especially in the first half. However, the build-up is worth it, as the climactic conclusion ties together the novel’s thematic and narrative threads in a way that feels both satisfying and tragic.

The only reason this book doesn’t earn a full five stars is that at times, the complexity of the world-building and symbolism can feel a bit overwhelming. It’s a book that asks its readers to engage deeply, and while that’s part of its allure, it can occasionally distance readers who are looking for a more straightforward narrative.

Overall, A Theory of Dreaming is an evocative, emotionally charged conclusion to Effy and Preston’s story, filled with layers of meaning and rich in atmosphere. Fans of the duology will find this finale incredibly rewarding, and anyone who enjoys beautifully written, thought-provoking fantasy will be drawn into Reid’s spellbinding world.

I think I’m more confused after finishing the book than I was reading it. I still don’t know why or how some of the things that happened actually happened. There wasn’t a whole lot of plot. I wanted to see more of edgy and Preston as a healthy functional couple. The writing is beautiful and it definitely has potential but I felt like it was missing something important.

Just as beautifully written as the first! I know this series isn’t for everyone; it’s not a big, loud, intense story with action and drama. It’s a quiet somewhat-fantasy with beautifully flawed characters that don’t ever “figure it all out.” It’s realistic in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming, and fantastical in a way that it still provides an escape.

If you’ve read the first one, I definitely recommends one!

This was the PERFECT follow up I needed! Effy’s struggle throughout were incredibly heart wrenching yet real, and anyone who has ever struggled with mental illness will feel seen by the way Reid writes it. Excellent, excellent, excellent!

4.25 ✨

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for this e-Arc!

Ugh what a hauntingly beautiful sequel to “A Study in Drowning”. The way Ava Reid conveys such deep and profound meanings in her writing style always amazes me!

Powerful themes. Perfect pacing. Poetic writing.

I loved getting to see more of Effy and Preston, though sometime I was SOO frustrated with them both. PLEASE just communicate! 😂 I wanted a bit more from their character arcs.

Even though I loved this book so much, ASID truly has me in a chokehold. Which is why I’m giving this a 4.25 star.

I liked this one but not quite as much as the first. Part of my issue was that it was so depressing for so long. My other issue was that I never really knew what the main issue was. The first book had me so sucked into it and for so much of this one I wasn't sure what I should be focusing on. The wrap up also felt pretty rushed at the end, but overall, I still liked it and will continue to read Ava's books because I like the world-building.

I got to step into this world again and it was such a beautiful experience. I felt my mood sway with this book, taking in what both of the MCs were feeling.

Effy is one of the most relatable characters I’ve come across in a while. We got to see her be really strong and accomplish so much at the end of book one and a lot changes in book two. In most cases we assume that everything gets better after the HEA at the end of a book, but this is real life (well as much as a magical world can be). We watch her question and have heartbreaking conversations with herself. All the while Preston believes that he isn’t worthy of loving her. He cares so deeply for her while she was falling apart and she didn’t want to burden him so he didn’t even know the half of what she was going through mentally. When her mental health finally came to a head I nearly broke down with her. That poor girl had so much dumped on to her and she didn’t know how to pull herself up from the bottom of the well.

When I finished book one, I feared that the Fairy King wasn’t actually dead and that Preston would become the new host. This fear was fueled by the rage that kept building in Preston, prior to this he was so passive. Once it became clear that he was changing due to this dream world, I started to remove that idea from my head. That other world brought so many other issues to his life and it was hard to watch him slowly lose himself. Once I noticed the correlation between his vision and how deep he was, I began to stress over his sanity. For example, when that clear vision translated into the waking world I was terrified we were going to lose that sweet boy for good.

I loved the way Preston is able to tear himself away from this welcoming false world, that is crumbling the very life he fought so hard to achieve, by doubling down on Effy. He is the sweetest boy and I’m so sad that I won’t get to see him again (until I reread).
It feels weird to say that I’m proud of these two, but I truly am. They feel like a part of me and I love them dearly. I’m excited to jump into other books by Ava Reid. The connection I made to these two characters is something I will cherish.

A Theory of Dreaming shifts away from the gothic romance of A Study in Drowning and plunges into a sharper, more political story. Effy and Preston must grapple with the weight of the truths they've uncovered--navigating a world steeped more in exhaustion and existential dread than overt magic. The novel excels in its beautiful prose and deeply human character interactions—particularly the miscommunications between Preston and Effy, which feel painfully real. While the story’s structure is more fragmented and lacks the softness of its predecessor, it still captures a rich academia atmosphere. Though A Study in Drowning could have stood alone, fans of Ava Reid’s writing will still find much to appreciate in this introspective and unsettling sequel.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

3.8⭐️ I’m a bit torn on this because, on one hand, Preston and Effy’s love story was so romantic and so precious that I constantly found myself smiling. Ava Reid’s writing is so beautiful and poetic that I was constantly highlighting things in my Kindle.

The story kept me interested, but I didn’t quite see the need for this in the first place because the first book ended with all loose ends tied up. Nothing really happened for the first two thirds of the book, and when things ramped up in the end, it wrapped up so quickly that I didn’t realize there wouldn’t be a third book until I read the acknowledgment and reviews. That being said, it was still an easy read, I just was hoping for a little more action in the fantasy subplot of this.

"If the soul of a nation requires an enemy, then it has no right to exist at all."

Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Wow, I have so much to say about this book! Effy and Preston are back at university after the events of A Study of Drowning. While Effy is dealing with the burden of her reality, Preston is slowly losing himself to his dreams.

This book touches on themes of sexism, nationalism and war, mental health struggles and recovery, and the sacrifices of love. The writing is just as beautiful as the first book and the ending of this duology definitely made me cry. PLEASE read this book!