3 Stars

"My mind is never empty if you. Not in waking; not even in dreaming."

I want to start this review off by saying I absolutely love Ava Reid’s writing. I haven’t been disappointed by her writing style yet. A Theory of Dreaming was a complicated read for me. I loved the characters and how much Preston cared for Effy. But the plot felt like a mess to me. It was hard to follow and I had a really hard time staying engaged with the plot. Unfortunately this didn’t hit as well as A Study in Drowning and lost some of the spark.

Sometimes a sequel is not better than the first in a duology...not in this case. I felt like the story continued and loved reading about these characters again! I loved watching Preston and Effy's love continue after everything that happened in A Study In Drowning, and how they have their own dreams and struggles, but are there for each other. Seeing that Effy is the only woman to enroll in college was made a little tougher to swallow with present day, real world struggles not far behind. Fantasy books are hitting different these days. Reid absolutely hit this one out of the park, and it is made even better that I didn't know it was coming!

I’m not joking when I say I started this book the SECOND it landed on my kindle. A Study in Drowning was my top read of 2023 and I just couldn’t wait to be back with Effy and Preston. Ava Reid’s writing remains incredibly lush and evocative and I was instantly transported back to the windswept coast and salt eaten buildings of Llyr and the university. While ASID was primarily Effy’s story, I’d argue the sequel is more Preston’s story to tell as he battles enemies both outside and within his own mind, and the true cost of loving someone through thick and thin. I adored the “story within a story” format of both Antonia’s letters and the sleeping gods. The world was just as atmospheric and ephemeral while feeling more grounded than its predecessor; more raw. I loved seeing Effy and Preston’s relationship settle and shift amongst the cracks as they carved out what love looks like for people still very much on the move. The exploration into xenophobia with Preston being Argantian had the usual bell of timeliness as with much of Ava’s writing. Overall, I knew this would be a five star read the second I saw it was announced, and was completely unsurprised to find every one of my expectations absolutely more than met.

I can’t help but picture Luigi Mangioni as Preston! Not similar people but Luigi was everywhere when I read the first book and it stuck in my head somehow. Sometimes there is no use fighting your mind's eye when it’s set on something.

I’m finding this much less enjoyable to read because of the absolute nastiness they both experience in the university. The sexism, slander, and xenophobia are just constant, taking all potential fun out of the academic setting. It makes it hard to be excited about diving into. It's unrelenting throughout the book.

I do remember thinking at the end of the last book that it all wrapped up too nicely with the university and it didn’t seem realistic. Well, all that is undone in this one, and never seemed to be legitimate in the first place.

I like that the magical focus shifted to Preston vs Effy in this book. Both of them are great, equally complex characters, though Effy didn't really shine in this one.

Their romance has much less tension as they distance themselves from each other right away, hiding what they are going through out of misplaced protectiveness. Again, not as fun to read.

The writing is great and has a dreamlike quality. It is a sadder book though, and the character's heads are sadder places to live this time around. If you enjoyed the first one I recommend reading this, but go in expecting something more muted.

First and foremost, I loved how this alternated between Effy and Preston's points of view! Ava Reid’s writing puts you under a spell and takes you into a dreamscape. She builds an eerie atmosphere, and it’s full of metaphors, just like A Study in Drowning.

The beginning captured me and it was intriguing to be back in Caer- Isel and I loved the focus turning on Preston. The middle of the book however was a bit of a struggle. This book covers some heavy mental health topics. Effy and Preston both struggled to feel like they deserved love and it was frustrating to read about them questioning their worth. In the end, a lot was brought to light that made it come full circle and it was a good conclusion to the duology.


Thank you so much HarperCollins and NetGalley for this ARC!

Ava Reid’s A Theory of Dreaming is a novel that feels like stepping into a world just beyond reach—one where the lines between dreams and reality blur, and the subconscious holds as much power as the waking world. Known for her lush, atmospheric storytelling, Reid delivers a spellbinding tale that is equal parts psychological mystery, folklore-infused fantasy, and deep character study.

The story follows a protagonist caught between the tangible and the surreal, unraveling secrets buried in both their dreams and their past. Reid’s writing is intoxicating, her descriptions rich with detail that makes even the most ephemeral moments feel vividly real. Every sentence pulses with an eerie beauty, drawing readers deeper into a narrative that is both unsettling and deeply emotional.

What makes A Theory of Dreaming so compelling is its exploration of the subconscious—not just as a space of imagination, but as a battleground where trauma, love, and identity collide. It’s a novel about memory and myth, about how the stories we tell ourselves shape our understanding of the world.

For fans of intricate, lyrical prose and immersive, dreamlike storytelling, A Theory of Dreaming is an unforgettable read. It’s the kind of book that lingers like a half-remembered dream—haunting, beautiful, and impossible to shake.

I can't believe that Ms. Reid was going to make this a stand-alone series, the ending of A Study in Drowning left me speechless and yearning for more of this world. I love Preston and having an inside into his thoughts and feelings (especially towards Effy) was the best gift ever. This was definitely darker, there were themes in this book that really had me sobbing and gasping for air as I clutched my chest but the hopefulness that Ms. Reid is able to write into her sentences comforted me in ways I can't truly put into words. Something so effortlessly beautiful about simply being and accepting yourself for who you are is exactly what I needed to hear. I loved all the side characters, Lotto was definitely a favorite!!!!! his and Preston's friendship was so sweet, I'm glad he had a friend to rely on. Effy's journey throughout this book was a hard one to read but it was inevitable, her whole life he had the other world to fall back into, a safe space for her to hide, and it was taken away, of course it would be hard to adjust to this world she had been running away from her entire life. Still, it was hard to read and I could feel and understand her pain, her stubbornness to accept a love that so easily came to Preston. Him choosing her over the palace, just like she chose him over the fairy king. Their love once again surpassing everything and anything despite the temping escape of the world of magic. I wish he would have confided in her about the palace but then again I think her falling back into another dream would have just completely taken over her and he would have never gotten her back. Their love really did end the war like okaaayyyy. 4.25

It breaks my heart to say this, because I eventually came around to ASID, but this sequel was unnecessary, and the ending was unearned. Even though our two MCs are in a relationship post ASID -- and sleep in the same bed – they don’t communicate, barely share a plotline, and don’t grow as characters. This is a problem given the one event that forces them back together – a sensitive event played for shock IMO – which is then infuriatingly glossed over. The message of ASID is repeated here, the themes and mode too similar, the villains cartoonish. In sum: ASID should have stayed a standalone.

A darker, more contemplative sequel, A Theory of Dreaming focuses mainly on the mental health of Effy and Preston as they deal with the aftermath of the events of the first book. There is not much of a plot beyond their struggles with low self-esteem, depression, and mean people, and sadly, the storylines for Effy and Preston unfold separately from each other. I kept waiting for their stories to overlap, or for Effy to be brought into the mystery Preston was experiencing–to get to see some teamwork between them, to see some of the spark that initially endeared them to me and to each other–but it never happens. And the lack of communication between their characters made all the overtures of grand romance simply ring hollow.This is a shame because, ultimately, this is a story about two people allowing themselves to love and to be loved.

All of that said, I absolutely adored Effy and Preston’s friends–and the love between them felt very true. We also learn a bit more about Llyr and Argant as well as the other Sleepers, all of which is interesting enough. However, overall this was a disappointing read for me that quite frankly felt unnecessary. At the very least, it did not live up to the sense of anticipation I felt when Preston asked Effy if she’d heard the bells at the end of A Study in Drowning.

The continuation of this story is something i did not know I needed so badly. Everything about this book was done magically and I was so excited to jump into this world.

I absolutely loved Study in Drowning but wanted more to the story, so I was super excited to read the sequel. I loved the detail into Effy and Preston's relationship and that the author included Preston's point of view. However, I felt as though the story was a bit confusing to follow, but I liked mystery aspect. I would of loved to see more conclusive ending and more focus on Effy's struggles. Overall, I really enjoyed Ava Reid's writing style and the atmosphere of her books.

A Theory in Dreaming is a mesmerizing, poetic conclusion to Ava Reid’s duology, bringing Effy and Preston’s journey to an emotionally charged and deeply satisfying end. This sequel leans heavily into themes of identity, ambition, and the weight of expectations, making it feel even more personal than A Study in Drowning.

Effy’s struggle to find her place in the literary world, especially as the first woman admitted to her college, is compelling and painfully relevant. Her growth is inspiring—she’s still dreamy and vulnerable, but there’s a fire in her now, a determination to claim the space she deserves. Preston’s arc, on the other hand, caught me by surprise. His descent into unsettling dreams and the eerie pull of a world where he’s king adds an unexpected psychological depth to the story, making his perspective just as gripping as Effy’s.

Reid’s writing is as lush and atmospheric as ever, blending reality and fantasy so seamlessly that you start to question what’s real alongside the characters. There’s an underlying melancholy that makes this book feel almost haunted, but it’s balanced by the hope and resilience of its protagonists.

If I had one minor complaint, it’s that the middle slows down a bit, and some twists don’t land with as much impact as they could. But those are small things in the grand scheme of an otherwise stunning book. A Theory in Dreaming is a dreamlike, immersive read that lingers in your thoughts long after the final page. If you loved A Study in Drowning, this is an absolute must-read.

Diving back into this magical world Ava created I couldn’t wait for more of Effy and Preston’s story. Leaving them behind to endure the fall out of their article left me on the edge of my seat.

While this story did have as much magic realism as the previous book this book made me fall in love with Preston and Effy all over again. The way we got more of Preston’s POV in this story may be on of my favorite parts. Getting to dive deeper into their world of Ilyr and the back story of the war. And also diving feeling into the sleeping fables felt very fitting in the world we live in today. Underneath all of that the romance shown through every page.

This has the most beautiful dark academia feel and Ava Reid has a way of completely transforming you into the world she creates, with a well written story.

I was SO glad to read this book and even more happy to see it pick up immediately where A Study in Drowning left off. This time, Reid takes us deeper into the complexities of magic, identity, and resistance, as Effy struggles with the loss of her connection to magic and Preston is forced to grapple with its power in a way he never expected. Their personal journeys feel like two sides of the same coin, illustrating the push and pull between the past and the future, tradition and progress.

I also really appreciated how this story continued the exploration of national identity and the power of storytelling. As well as how stories and myths are more often than not instruments of control. People can be awful and cruel when it comes to protecting their myths and stories, especially if those myths allow them justification to wield power over others. Feels EXTREMELY relevant and timely with everything going on in the world today.

And the story does get dark. And our characters are flawed and complicated and messy. But the weight of a crumbling world didn't overshadow their love and vulnerability, and that was honestly reaffirming and hopeful. We all need to give ourselves permission to love and be loved. Especially in a world trying to grind us down -- especially then.

I highly suggest checking out this book and make sure you read A Study in Drowning first! It is very dark academia so there are some trigger warnings to be mindful of!

Trigger warnings: misogyny, xenophobia, violence, drug abuse, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, sexual harassment

Ava Reid is one of my FAVORITE authors, and this sequel to one of my favorite books of hers did not disappoint. Absolutely loved getting more scenes of Effy and Preston just being sweet and in love with one another, and the magical, ethereal atmosphere of the fae world mixing with the coziness of the dark academia setting was *chef's kiss*. Loved this one and can't wait to buy it!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

Ava Reid has done it again with A Theory in Dreaming—a spellbinding, immersive novel that completely transported me. From the very first page, I was enchanted by the lush, lyrical prose and the eerie, dreamlike atmosphere that Reid crafts so beautifully. This book is the kind that sinks into your bones, leaving you lingering between reality and reverie long after you’ve turned the last page.

One of my favorite things about this story was how seamlessly it blended folklore, psychology, and hauntingly vivid imagery. The protagonist’s journey felt deeply personal yet universally resonant, making me reflect on the nature of dreams, memory, and self-perception in ways I wasn’t expecting. Reid’s signature style—rich, poetic, and slightly unsettling—was in full force here, and I found myself highlighting passage after passage.

The only reason this isn’t a full five-star read for me is that some parts of the story felt a bit meandering, making the pacing slightly uneven. But honestly, I didn’t mind too much because I was so wrapped up in the experience. This is a book that demands to be savored, and I loved every moment of its atmospheric unraveling.

If you love books that feel like a lucid dream—beautiful, eerie, and impossible to forget—A Theory in Dreaming is an absolute must-read. Ava Reid continues to solidify herself as one of my favorite authors, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next.

Huge thanks to the publisher, NetGallery and author for the ARC—I adored this one!

A Theory of Dreaming is the gorgeous sequel to A Study in Drowning. It takes the ending of the first and explores the aftermath of the events with cutting (and such real) detail. Thematically, it felt very relevant with the use of art as propaganda and its role in nationalism and war, separation of art and the artist, prejudices, and explores where people are left when the stories they have used to cope are now disillusioned with a darker reality.

The writing as always was stunning and the prose lush with a sense of magic. And the characters once more raw and facing their own battles and supremely sympathetic. My heart bled for them both. Effy still, is a character so dear to me and everything she faces in this sequel, the relatable strength of her character.

I did have some frustrations with the portrayal of their relationship in this book, some of the character resolutions, and the pacing, but really, Ava Reid never misses in my eyes.

i feel this book like a weight on my chest. welcome back Effy and Preston 💕

I don't think i can ever relate to a character more than effy, with everything she goes through and things that i don't even think i can put into words. how strong you must be, to feel so deeply. everybody should read these books, especially now with everything that's happening in the United States. These are the books we need to prioritize and understand

i am literally crying that i got to read this book as an arc. there aren't enough thank yous for Ava Reid for being able to write this beautifully and to Harper Collins and Netgalley for the chance to be an arc reviewer. i have so much love for yall

Another spectacular work by Ava Reid!

I found the first novel incredibly compelling and was completely drawn in by Effy and Preston's story. This was a spectacular follow up with many touch points from the first book while retaining brilliant novel ideas.

I continued to love Effy and Preston as characters and really enjoyed seeing more of Rhia, Maisie, and meeting Lotto. Ava has such strength of character to her writing and I think this was a fascinating character portrayal that sought great depth to the main characters exploring their darker emotions as well.

I think her works are in a separate category of writing to many on the market nowadays and feel like a true art form to read.

I would absolutely recommend this, and will definitely be buying the special edition to add to my collection!

Thank you NetGalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a great follow up to A Study in Drowning. Ava Reid is a great writer and truly has a unique approach to magic and the fantasy world. Effy and Preston's story continued in such a great was, with more development and a happy ending. This final adventure was more epic, and I loved how we truly got to see from Preston's perspective. There was so much more to learn from Preston and I am grateful that Ava Reid decided to explore the world from his point of view.