Continues the atmospheric gothic tones of the first book, but is also a bit grittier and more direct in its attention to certain themes.

This gets 5 stars, mostly on vibes. It gives me the same intense feelings of just…emotions…that I remember feeling reading Divine Rivals, and I love that.

Having not read the first book in a while, I think this book does a good job of building on the same themes, reminding the reader of the past without too much repetition. Both Effy and Preston are in dark places throughout much of the book and I did feel frustrated that they weren’t communicating more. Some of the day to day timeline seemed hard to follow - they are supposed to be at school and yet never seem to be doing school things, except when relevant to the plot. SPOILER - and while the proposal at the end and the build up to it is romantic in its way, it does feel a little strange given the themes of women’s independence from marriage expectations and their ages

If you enjoyed a study in drowning, this is worth a read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for access to an eARC of this gothic book!

It’s an Ava Reid novel… Did you really think I was going to rate it any less than 5 stars? Be real.

Effy and Preston have returned to the University of Llyr to continue their studies, the dark history of Hiraeth Manor behind them. – Emrys Myrrdin exposed. But with Llyr and Argant on the brink of war, their discovery is less than appreciated, especially with Preston’s obvious Argant heritage.

Now, Preston’s professor is on the hunt for a new discovery, his obsession resulting in erratic behavior. Drowning in the stress of this new academic endeavor, his overwhelming desire to protect Effy from the cruel world around them, and the fear that his family is no longer safe, Preston starts to find comfort in a world that he can control. But the illusion of this dream world is tearing the real one apart. He is forced to decide to live in dreams, or face tough reality.

This novel is so beautiful and poetic. The constant metaphors are wrapped up so deep in the story that it becomes hard to recognize what is the character and what is our own internal struggles.

Returning to the world of Effy, Preston, and the Sleepers was something I didn’t expect, but the sequel to A Study in Drowning was just as decadent in its prose as its predecessor. Warning: this book is deeply melancholy and I do not recommend diving in if you are in a dark place mentally. Effy’s journey and insecurities are dark and resonate in the depths of my chest. Reading this book felt at times like reading the news today and made me anxious, but that is the intention of the storytelling—executed immaculately.

I absolutely love the dreamlike writing style of Ava Reid. The ethereal way in which the story transpires has a way of just making me lose myself in Effy and Preston's story. This book builds upon the first installment, A Study in Drowning, and we learn more about the worlds of Llyr and Argant, and how literature has such a large influence on it's people.

It was nice being able to enjoy more of the story from Preston's perspective in this installment of the two books. It allows the reader to get a better sense of who it he is as a person, and see the "bigger story" so to speak since he impacts more of the plot in this book. As part of this bigger story overall, we get to meet additional characters. Lancelot is, by far, my favorite #IYKYK.

I would like to also give Ava Reid commendation for the way in which she portrayed the depression that Effy was going through. Having been through it myself, I feel she did an excellent job in showing the mental struggles and demons that a person can face. Also refreshing was the support system of friends and medical personnel with the attitude, we're here to help and not judge. This type of acceptance is sorely needed as even though mental health issues are more widely accepted, they can still be stigmatized.

Thank you NetGalley for providing an advance copy.

Ava Reid truly is one of the most beautiful writers whose work I've had the pleasure of reading. A Study in Drowning was my favorite read of 2023, and A Theory in Dreaming was a masterfully-crafted sequel exploring grief and depression with the magic we first experienced in ASID.

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

A Theory of Dreaming takes place almost immediately after the events of A Study in Drowning, with Preston and Effy navigating the real-life effects of publishing their paper on Emrys Myrrdin. Effy has switched to the literature college and many of the troubles that plagued her in the architecture college remain alive and well here too - not being taken seriously because she's a woman, disdain because they believe she cried wolf about Master Corbin, relentless sexism by the men surrounding her. Preston faces the same prejudices against his Argantian blood as he becomes a teaching assistant for Master Gosse and is made legate of the literature college. And if that weren't enough, he finds himself sleeping into a different world when he dreams: an underwater palace where his father is still alive and Effy is safe and immortalized in marble glory. But as Master Gosse manages to find a ritual that allows him into that dreamworld, Preston is left with so many new questions.

This is definitely a darker book than ASID, and there are triggers to check before reading it. Preston's grief over his father's death, the rage he feels at being treated as less than by his peers simply because of his heritage, and his fear that he doesn't deserve Effy are not to be taken lightly. This does feel more like Preston's book than Effy's but it is dual POV so you get both of their perspectives. Effy is watching Preston become more withdrawn, and without the fear of the Fairy King coming back, it's almost as if she has lost a crutch she became reliant on, even if it was negative. We feel Effy's depression as she feels she is a burden to Preston and the toll it takes on her.

One of the things I loved about this book was the questioning of the truth, which started in ASID and I think is very relevant to society today. Amidst the war between Argant and Llyr, a particular work by a Sleeper is being evaluated, and it's quickly becoming clear that the very piece, the one which speaks of a long-dead king and paints Argant and Llyr as enemies, might have been changed from its original form. How much are people willing to believe without question if it comes from authority? How much of history is truth and how much of it is what we're told to fit a narrative? Can people's faith be challenged and can their opinions be changed?

I savored this book, took my time with it ,and allowed it to break my heart then repair it again. I enjoyed the addition of characters, especially Lotto because who wouldn't want friends like Lotto and Rhia? This book will make you uncomfortable and make you think, and I loved it.

Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I actually liked this better than the first. Although it was mostly from Preston’s POV I do wish we dove into Effy and her feels a little but more. Also Preston’s feels about protecting her. I do real like his over baring protection came a little out of left field.

A Theory in Dreaming is a gorgeous inception-type of fever dream. It was so fun to return to these beloved characters. Effy and Preston are so special. And this story brings in friends that really enhance the story. The magic of the world is ambiguous and delightful. What is real? What isn’t?

Thank you to Ava Reid and Harper Collins for the chance to eARC A Theory of Dreaming! I will admit, I was so nervous for this. A Study in Drowning was one of my favorite reads in 2024 and I was hesitate about reading the 2nd part of it, however, Ava Reid never disappoints and A Theory of Dreaming was no exception.

This is a medium paced read that deserves a rainy day, warm cup of whatever you'd like, and your devoted time. It picks up where A Study in Drowning left off and for a good chunk of the book we get focus bouncing between Effy and Preston before settling more into Preston's story and his view, something in truly enjoyed.

The story telling is just as fantastic as the first book. It is very engaging and I found myself wanting to keep reading. The chapters flowed perfectly into each other creating that sense of wanting to keep reading without realizing hours had past.

In terms of the story itself, fans of Effy are in for a ride. The twist this took was so well done and it showed so much vulnerability but also strength from our main girl. Preston also had a beautifully done arch in A Theory of Dreaming. He was given so much purpose, backstory, and those small gaps in him were filled wonderfully.

This is just a fantastic read. 4.5/5 stars.

Thank you so much, @netgalley and @harpercollins, for approving me for this e-arc. A Study in Drowning is one of my favorite books, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review this early.

ASID and ATOD are so special to me. I feel like these stories are so important as they tackle such relevant issues of sexism, bigotry, xenophobia, and grief. I don't think there's been a character written that I relate to as desperately as Effie. I absolutely adore she and Preston and the way they handle this parallel, dichotomous academic and fantastical world.

Previously on the A Study in Drowning Duology…
A beautiful girl with a black ribbon in her golden hair and stars in her eyes meets a handsome boy wearing glasses on his nose and a cloud over his head.

About A Theory of Dreaming
Return to Caer-Isel in Ava Reid breathtaking conclusion to the A Study in Drowning duology.

Effy's life has changed dramatically since the events of A Study in Drowning. With the Fairy King banished and Master Corbenic fired, her abusers are no more. Now she is ready to make history as the first woman admitted to the literature college.

Preston too has flourished since the Fairy King's banishment. As Master Gosse's teaching assistant, he now serves as legate of the literature college.

Will Effy and Preston get their happily ever after, or will a new force enter their lives to wreak havoc?

Who Should Read A Theory of Dreaming

✅ Read if:
- You want more after finishing A Theory of Dreaming
- You love lyrical, fairy-tale style writing
- You enjoy dual point-of-view narratives (male/female)

❌ Don't Read if:
- You're frustrated by couples who doubt their worthiness throughout the entire story
- You don’t enjoy fantasy
- You're sensitive to themes of abuse from authority figures

✏️ Similar Authors:

- V.E. Schwab
- Olivie Blake
- T. Kingfisher

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was such a fun story to read! I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, the plot and the overall feelings of the book. This was amazing and the perfect second book in the series.

**Thank you for the ARC**

A Theory of Dreaming is such a tragically beautiful continuation of A Study in Drowning. it is a very heavy book but necessary. Ava uses fantastical elements and prose to convey the struggles of mental illness and the impacts of it on oneself and those closest unable to ease your suffering.

This book made me feel seen and pulled at my heartstribgs for the person I was when my life felt like Effy's. It did take me a while to get through because that heaviness but it was a weight I wanted to carry and a story I wanted to be a part of.

This will definitely be on my bookshelf and be my go-to recommendation for those who need a peek into the beauty and terror of mental illness. So appreciative this book is in the world.

When A Study in Drowning came out I was so excited! I ordered the beautiful special edition from Waterstones and read it immediately. I loved the eerie setting of the book, the focus on mental health, and the style of Ava’s writing. A Theory in Dreaming is no different. I really enjoyed getting to dive more into Preston’s story/background and again I liked that there was a big focus on Effy’s mental health. The writing was beautiful as always. The only thing that didn’t make this a five star read for me was the ending felt rushed. All in all a great follow up!

5/5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this ARC! This review is totally my own opinion, and all quotes are subject to change in the final release🫰

“The truth was such a fragile thing, slender protection against malicious scrutiny.”

“She was afraid of wanting becoming needing. And she was afraid, so terribly afraid, that if she needed him, it would be the moment that he slipped away, like twilight dying into total dark.”

“Does grief alter one’s spirit, or does it merely reveal one’s fundamental nature?”

“It was her own heart, her own mind, all of it going to ruin now, because there was nothing left that she could love without a footnote or asterisk.”

“Before the ocean is friend or foe, it simply is. And so are you.”


I love a silly fun read, and I love a good thinker book. This was somehow the absolute perfect combination.

Yet again Ava Reid has found a way to take very serious and hard to explain subjects and turn them into stunning poetry. While I enjoyed the first book a lot, this one struck such a harder chord with me. Effys struggles with coming to terms with her world view and how she coped with her trauma changing, and Preston’s whole ideation and world view changing, was so incredibly relatable.

This book being published in Americas current political climate, felt so very validating and representative of what’s happening. Without giving any spoilers, I truly think I’ll be screaming from the rooftops that every citizen, not just American, needs to read this and reflect. Especially because it not only applies politically, but religiously, and in so many other ways it’s crazy.

I don’t want to spoil Effy and Preston’s relationship path in this book because I think it is one of the most powerful story lines in this- but I will say, to be loved is to be known.

LET ME ALSO JUST SAYYYYYYYY- it is so deeply unfair that Ava has such an abundance of talent that the fake quotes of fake books that are the headers to each chapter are some of the most deeply profound quotes and pieces of poetry I’ve ever read??

In the authors note, Ava talks about how she wasn’t sure she wanted to write a sequel and all I can say is thank you. Genuinely thank you for giving us this masterpiece.

Overall, read the trigger warnings for both books for SURE, and be cautious of your own mental health, but if you feel you can read this series i can not recommend it enough.

Unfortunately this sequel did not do it for me. I love Ava Reid’s writing, she builds a beautiful picture and is so poetic. I could see what she was trying to do and where she was trying to go with this book but at the end of the day, it just didn’t work for me.

The plot felt discombobulating, and I don’t think I cared enough for the characters to keep me intrigued. I felt that more questions just kept arising and everything was solved in the last 10% of the book in what felt like a rush. It made sense, and there was nothing confusing about the plot, but some of it didn’t make sense to me. Does that make sense? 😅

What I did like was the mirroring of the last book into this one. Preston slipping from reality instead of Effy, especially as a realist, it was interesting to watch the battles he had with himself. Also Effy’s decent into depression was heartbreaking and realistic.

I would still recommend it if you read and liked A Study in Drowning. I could tell this is a book with good bones, it was just not my cup of tea.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.

Oh my god. This was the perfect match to a Study in Drowning. This book is heavy and depressing at points, but I am obsessed with how these characters fight for each other and come together. The emotional roller coaster she puts us through. Please I beg you, never stop.

4.5
A fabulous continuation on A Study in Drowning. I had thought the story over having finished ASID and was hesitant to pick un a new installment, but as usual for Ava Reid, it was beautifully written, atmospheric, and emotional. Really grateful to have received this ARC - recommend! I'd say you really must read ASID before tucking in for the full effect.

4.5
I'm going to be totally honest, I was not happy when this book was announced. I was convinced that the way A Study in Drowning ended was more than perfect, and I thought the announcement of a sequel was just an attempt to keep exploiting the hype around the book. But I was proven wrong. Very wrong.

This book is so necessary for Preston and Effy’s story that I’m stunned it was ever sold as a standalone. Now I can't even conceive of A Study in Drowning without A Theory of Dreaming.

Why?
ATOD picks up at the exact moment where ASID ends. The central idea of this book is "What happens to our heroes once the adventure is over?"

We find Effy feeling adrift after defeating her demons, unsure of how to hold on to life without the fables, fantastical creatures, and stories that have always been her refuge. Meanwhile, Preston struggles with his identity and his need to protect Effy, even though he can’t bring himself to open up to her about what he’s going through.

This book was so painful yet so beautiful to read. Seeing this perspective of the story—this often untold part of “what happens after”—adds incredible depth to Effy and Preston’s journey while also giving us a much-needed ending.

If, like me, you were hesitant to read this book despite loving the first one, trust me, you NEED to read it.

If you enjoyed the adventure and mystery of book 1 you will do the same for this book. It still follows Effy and Preston as the uncover more information and reform what scholars learned along the way.

I loved this newest installment by Ava Reid. In the novel, Effy and Preston struggle with the many politics of their school and governments. Effy struggles to understand her life without the help of the Fairy King. Though she is happy that the Fairy King is gone, she feels the loss of him in her mind. Meanwhile, Preston deals with his own demons - he fights for his right to love and protect Effy whilst physically fighting against the ingrained racism of Lyr. This novel is dark - almost gothic in its representation of dreams, sadness, depression, and in the tale of a new sleeper and his daughter. I loved it and absolutely suggest this for readers of gothic fantasy.