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The Dream #1
In Dreams
When Katherine Johns starts dreaming about a boy she doesn't know, her college roommate Taylor is determined to find him. Convinced he must exist, Taylor is relentless... until she finds out exactly WHO the mysterious stranger really is.
The realization rocks the girls to their core and sends them down a path of unimaginable heartbreak as they learn to navigate their new reality.
Follow Katherine & Taylor's journey through love, friendship and tragedy in the first book of this emotionally captivating Young Adult series.
Suitable for ages 12+
The realization rocks the girls to their core and sends them down a path of unimaginable heartbreak as they learn to navigate their new reality.
Follow Katherine & Taylor's journey through love, friendship and tragedy in the first book of this emotionally captivating Young Adult series.
Suitable for ages 12+
247 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
116 people are currently reading
2596 people want to read
About the author
J. Sterling
57 books6,179 followersJ. (jenn) Sterling is a New York Times and USA Today best selling author of multiple contemporary romances. She lives in California with her only son, Blake. If you can't find her sitting behind a computer screen writing new stories, then there's a good chance she's sitting in the bleachers of a baseball stadium watching him play.
Jenn enjoys traveling to new places, meeting her readers and spending time with the love of her life, the one & only, Jack F'n Carter! Oh yeah, it's true. <3
Stay in touch with Jenn here:
Newsletter: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/619557...
Website: http://www.jsterlingbooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorJSterling
Instagram & TikTok: @AuthorJSterling
Jenn enjoys traveling to new places, meeting her readers and spending time with the love of her life, the one & only, Jack F'n Carter! Oh yeah, it's true. <3
Stay in touch with Jenn here:
Newsletter: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/619557...
Website: http://www.jsterlingbooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorJSterling
Instagram & TikTok: @AuthorJSterling
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
January 19, 2012
Katherine Johns has shiny straight hair, adorable freckles on her nose, and strangely intense dreams. Even though she only just started college, she's already attracted the attention of the most sought-after man at school, hockey-star Cooper Donovon. But how can she concentrate on him when she's dreaming of her soul-mate?
Putting aside the huge problem that the plot itself is completely unrealistic, the characters and writing don't help. The tense shifts every few sentences, sometimes the POV switches within a single paragraph. Grammar errors run rampant. The dialog is like someone taped 400 hours of CW programming and then selected the most boring, meaningless sentences possible and strung them together. The characters are too bland to even count as stereotypes. They're all handsome and nice; if they're a man, they're also muscled and good at hockey. That's the extent of their characterization. The weirdest throwback tropes are in here, too: there's an Italian restauranteur who speaks-ah like-ah this-ah, each of the characters' mothers are described as being in the kitchen (followed by the maddening phrase "of course") and half a chapter is devoted to telling us that picnics are not manly and that men should be manly and therefore not like picnics. (I have no idea where the author got that particular idea.) It is, overall, the most boring, bland, and just plain bad book that I've read in months.
Putting aside the huge problem that the plot itself is completely unrealistic, the characters and writing don't help. The tense shifts every few sentences, sometimes the POV switches within a single paragraph. Grammar errors run rampant. The dialog is like someone taped 400 hours of CW programming and then selected the most boring, meaningless sentences possible and strung them together. The characters are too bland to even count as stereotypes. They're all handsome and nice; if they're a man, they're also muscled and good at hockey. That's the extent of their characterization. The weirdest throwback tropes are in here, too: there's an Italian restauranteur who speaks-ah like-ah this-ah, each of the characters' mothers are described as being in the kitchen (followed by the maddening phrase "of course") and half a chapter is devoted to telling us that picnics are not manly and that men should be manly and therefore not like picnics. (I have no idea where the author got that particular idea.) It is, overall, the most boring, bland, and just plain bad book that I've read in months.
August 5, 2012
Katherine is dreaming about a young man she has never met. In her dreams, she is so comfortable with him, it is almost like she has known him all her life. Her dreams are so powerful, so vivid and so emotional that she begins to wonder if just maybe, somehow, this young man is real. But Katherine doesn’t know what to believe. Could the young man in her dreams really be real and if so what does that mean?
Katherine’s best friend, Taylor, loves the idea that Katherine’s dream man may be real but when Katherine and Taylor find out who she has been dreaming about, will either one of them be able to handle the consequences?
In Dreams by J Sterling is an enchanting novel about love and soulmates, one that I found absolutely beautiful. Swept away by the beauty, love, heartbreak and emotion of this story, I was pulled into Katherine’s world from the moment she awoke from her first dream about her mystery man.
Throughout reading this novel, there were times when I found myself laughing out loud and other times, where I was reaching for the tissues. I really cared about the characters which was why, at times, I cried. I really felt for them.
There were so many things that I loved about this novel. I loved the friendship between Katherine and Taylor - the comfort they both found in their friendship, their loyalty to each other and their strength, both in their friendship and as individuals. I loved the mystery, the romance, the patience of Cooper and the selflessness of Austen and I loved how author, J Sterling, told the story.
J Sterling’s writing style allows you to easily understand the characters. I found myself torn just like Katherine. I won’t say why I was torn though, I don’t want to give anything away.
This amazing story of unconditional love, soulmates and friendship is a must read, especially for all the romantics out there. A stunning debut novel by J Sterling.
5/5
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
Katherine’s best friend, Taylor, loves the idea that Katherine’s dream man may be real but when Katherine and Taylor find out who she has been dreaming about, will either one of them be able to handle the consequences?
In Dreams by J Sterling is an enchanting novel about love and soulmates, one that I found absolutely beautiful. Swept away by the beauty, love, heartbreak and emotion of this story, I was pulled into Katherine’s world from the moment she awoke from her first dream about her mystery man.
Throughout reading this novel, there were times when I found myself laughing out loud and other times, where I was reaching for the tissues. I really cared about the characters which was why, at times, I cried. I really felt for them.
There were so many things that I loved about this novel. I loved the friendship between Katherine and Taylor - the comfort they both found in their friendship, their loyalty to each other and their strength, both in their friendship and as individuals. I loved the mystery, the romance, the patience of Cooper and the selflessness of Austen and I loved how author, J Sterling, told the story.
J Sterling’s writing style allows you to easily understand the characters. I found myself torn just like Katherine. I won’t say why I was torn though, I don’t want to give anything away.
This amazing story of unconditional love, soulmates and friendship is a must read, especially for all the romantics out there. A stunning debut novel by J Sterling.
5/5
Review originally posted at Treasured Tales for Young Adults.
December 20, 2011
First off… I didn’t hate this book… it just wasn’t for me. Why? I didn’t connect with the characters. The storyline jumps right in there and it didn't give me a chance to connect with them.
Usually when I read a book, I want to go through what they do, I want to feel what they feel and I want to fall in love when they fall in love. But with this book, I couldn’t. We aren't given a chance to get to know Katherine before she’s quite devastated over a boy in her dreams and I didn't fall in love with him myself (overall I felt their interaction throughout the book was too limited).
Maybe I didn’t give the book a chance after that. Although there was a certain boy who presents himself in the story, who I did WANT to fall in love with, but Katherine doesn’t give him a chance. And I’m like… hello… what’s wrong with you girl??? I didn’t feel what she felt and I didn’t understand.
The plot has much potential; it just wasn’t for me. Maybe my expectations were too high (I did read this after Beautiful Disaster). Anyway, the author has a lot to give and her writing was enjoyable.
My only other gripe was how the point of view changed multiple times, without warning, within a short period of time. I found this confusing as one minute (or sentence in this case) we would be reading Katharine’s POV and the next sentence would be someone else’s POV.
The book really does have potential and perhaps it will be the start to a good series. I hope so for all the people who did enjoy it.
September 17, 2011
What I loved: Cooper! He's one of the best male YA characters I've seen written in a while. All-American, confident but put in his place by the right girl. I have to say if this were a YA contemporary novel without the paranormal element or other male character I would have been happy reading it that way. Austen, boy of her dreams is great but I just didn't feel the same pull to him as I did Cooper, alive and in the flesh.
J Sterling did an awesome job of fleshing out all of the characters and the friendship between two college roommates. I also really enjoyed the hockey element, the setting and the concept behind the story.
I like that the main girl is from California and is living in the East. There is a big difference between the two coasts (which I know since I've lived on both) and I liked the way Sterling added that into her book.
What I struggled with: The storyline is constantly shifting between the thoughts of all the characters which got a little confusing for me.
I received what I am guessing was an advanced reading copy from the author- there were several typoes, weird spacing and even font changes which are a bit distracting. For some reason I just didn't feel a connection to Austen so I think the pull in the story between two men didn't carry the full emotional reaction it otherwise would have.
Content: Moderate swearing, college drinking and co-ed sleepovers. No sex, very mild violence.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend reading In Dreams and I would read it again.
You may also like: Jennifer Laurens or Joy Preble's YA series.
J Sterling did an awesome job of fleshing out all of the characters and the friendship between two college roommates. I also really enjoyed the hockey element, the setting and the concept behind the story.
I like that the main girl is from California and is living in the East. There is a big difference between the two coasts (which I know since I've lived on both) and I liked the way Sterling added that into her book.
What I struggled with: The storyline is constantly shifting between the thoughts of all the characters which got a little confusing for me.
I received what I am guessing was an advanced reading copy from the author- there were several typoes, weird spacing and even font changes which are a bit distracting. For some reason I just didn't feel a connection to Austen so I think the pull in the story between two men didn't carry the full emotional reaction it otherwise would have.
Content: Moderate swearing, college drinking and co-ed sleepovers. No sex, very mild violence.
Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend reading In Dreams and I would read it again.
You may also like: Jennifer Laurens or Joy Preble's YA series.
March 1, 2012
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com for readers
3.95 stars
BRIEF SUMMARY
Katherine is your typical college freshmen when she starts dreaming of a mysterious guy who she has a deep unexplainable connection with. Once she confides in her roommate Taylor, they both sets out on a mission to discovery who this mystery guy is while dealing with regular college life.
THOUGHTS
This was different...and the weirdest love square/triangle relationship I have read but yet found interesting. With saying that, I still enjoyed the concept of what the author was doing with dreams and other beings even though the story had a bit of simplicity to it. The story starts us off with Katherine, a California native who’s attending her freshmen year of college in New Jersey. Her roommate is Taylor whose she's become very close with. Katherine starts having dreams about guy who she's become emotionally attached to but doesn't know why. While trying to move on from these dreams, she meets the school’s star hockey player, Cooper.
Without giving too much away, the first few chapters took me some time to get into because I'm still trying to figure out where Katherine's story was leading me while getting to know the different characters. However, once I discovered who the mystery guy was, I was a bit intrigued. The discovery of the mystery guy set off a chain of events that leads to jealousy and other events. I also really enjoyed Cooper, the hockey star and his perusal of Katherine. He was so cute.
Though the author has a follow up book explaining the past and explaining this without giving too much away, it would have been nice to have more information or a brief history of the mystery guy and Katherine's past. It was talked about but wanted a bit more.
I don't read much YA, but this was one that captured my curiosity and I can appreciate a good concept and interesting characters. This story definitely depends on the reader and the openness of the reader towards this storyline.
Length: 165 pages
Storyline: FAIRLY GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
3.95 stars
BRIEF SUMMARY
Katherine is your typical college freshmen when she starts dreaming of a mysterious guy who she has a deep unexplainable connection with. Once she confides in her roommate Taylor, they both sets out on a mission to discovery who this mystery guy is while dealing with regular college life.
THOUGHTS
This was different...and the weirdest love square/triangle relationship I have read but yet found interesting. With saying that, I still enjoyed the concept of what the author was doing with dreams and other beings even though the story had a bit of simplicity to it. The story starts us off with Katherine, a California native who’s attending her freshmen year of college in New Jersey. Her roommate is Taylor whose she's become very close with. Katherine starts having dreams about guy who she's become emotionally attached to but doesn't know why. While trying to move on from these dreams, she meets the school’s star hockey player, Cooper.
Without giving too much away, the first few chapters took me some time to get into because I'm still trying to figure out where Katherine's story was leading me while getting to know the different characters. However, once I discovered who the mystery guy was, I was a bit intrigued. The discovery of the mystery guy set off a chain of events that leads to jealousy and other events. I also really enjoyed Cooper, the hockey star and his perusal of Katherine. He was so cute.
Though the author has a follow up book explaining the past and explaining this without giving too much away, it would have been nice to have more information or a brief history of the mystery guy and Katherine's past. It was talked about but wanted a bit more.
I don't read much YA, but this was one that captured my curiosity and I can appreciate a good concept and interesting characters. This story definitely depends on the reader and the openness of the reader towards this storyline.
Length: 165 pages
Storyline: FAIRLY GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Romance Novel Junkies
July 31, 2012
Instead of thinking of this as a harsh critique; I'd like everyone to think of it as a learning experience.
This book is a prime example of a self-published book that could really have used some good editing. The story line is decent and the characters are okay. There were a lot of basic things that an editor could really have helped the author improve on. I'll give a couple of examples that asspiring authors can note and thus avoid.
First of all point of view. Stick with one POV character. If you really need more than one--and sometimes you do--stick with only one per chapter. In this book POV characters change one paragraph to the next. It's confusing, and it makes it really hard to identify with any one character. We're bouncing from one person's head to the next--sometimes even more than once per paragraph.
Another thing to watch out for--don't show us something in dialogue (which is a good thing)and then turn around and tell us the same thing in the next sentence. I'll give you an example. This isn't a direct quote from the book but the author did similar things quite often: "How are you feeling?" she asked, wondering how he was feeling. Seems pretty obvious that the second sentence isn't necessary, and any decent editor would have pointed that out.
Professional editors--not your college roomate who majored in English--are vital to a good book--I believe.
This book is a prime example of a self-published book that could really have used some good editing. The story line is decent and the characters are okay. There were a lot of basic things that an editor could really have helped the author improve on. I'll give a couple of examples that asspiring authors can note and thus avoid.
First of all point of view. Stick with one POV character. If you really need more than one--and sometimes you do--stick with only one per chapter. In this book POV characters change one paragraph to the next. It's confusing, and it makes it really hard to identify with any one character. We're bouncing from one person's head to the next--sometimes even more than once per paragraph.
Another thing to watch out for--don't show us something in dialogue (which is a good thing)and then turn around and tell us the same thing in the next sentence. I'll give you an example. This isn't a direct quote from the book but the author did similar things quite often: "How are you feeling?" she asked, wondering how he was feeling. Seems pretty obvious that the second sentence isn't necessary, and any decent editor would have pointed that out.
Professional editors--not your college roomate who majored in English--are vital to a good book--I believe.
October 24, 2011
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about a college age girl who falls in love. The problem is who she falls in love with. The premise of the story should be silly but it worked. I won't give anything away. It took me about a third way through before I became completely enthralled and stayed up until 2am to finish the book. One of the guys in this story, Cooper, had me at hello. But towards the end of the book, I thought his choices were a bit unrealistic based on the character he was supposed to be. But that didn’t deter my interest. I simply accepted it and moved on. I thought I had this book figured out about halfway through, but I was totally wrong. And that’s a good thing. I’m often not surprised by endings. And this was a happy ending and wrapped things up nicely. It was an entertaining read, more romance than paranormal although it did have a slight paranormal aspect. I’m not sure how this book is being classified. But it should be romance. Good read and I would recommend.
This book is about a college age girl who falls in love. The problem is who she falls in love with. The premise of the story should be silly but it worked. I won't give anything away. It took me about a third way through before I became completely enthralled and stayed up until 2am to finish the book. One of the guys in this story, Cooper, had me at hello. But towards the end of the book, I thought his choices were a bit unrealistic based on the character he was supposed to be. But that didn’t deter my interest. I simply accepted it and moved on. I thought I had this book figured out about halfway through, but I was totally wrong. And that’s a good thing. I’m often not surprised by endings. And this was a happy ending and wrapped things up nicely. It was an entertaining read, more romance than paranormal although it did have a slight paranormal aspect. I’m not sure how this book is being classified. But it should be romance. Good read and I would recommend.
June 20, 2012
I downloaded In dreams today from Amazon for free, after hearing people from a reading group rave about this book. Granted, I heard the words hockey boys and wanted to read it anyway, but that's not the point.
In Dreams introduces us to Katherine, a girl who dreams about a boy she has never meet. She doesn't know why she's dreaming about him, but she just knows every time she does she falls deeper and deeper in love with him. And there lies the problem. In falling in love with him, she is struggling to deal with the living and the dreamworld - a dreamworld that is more intriguing to her than the living.
She literally can not wait to dream - to see her dream boy. Then she meets Cooper, a real life living dream boy. The star of the hockey team, and someone who loves her completely. But he's still not the boy of her dreams. Katherine has to make the choice between what is real and what is not real? The prize? True love.
Firstly, I've got to say a few pages in I was interested but not overly interested. I almost put it down. I say almost, because I decided to read a few more pages. Then a few more pages after that. Well, you get the gist. An hour later, I'd finished the book and found myself annoyed that I couldn't read the second one yet.
This storyline is unique in so many ways. I'm not going to spoil it and tell you why. You need to read it for yourself. The hook really is having a main character who dreams about a boy she doesn't know. It has you wondering if she does know him? If she'd had a memory lapse and he was her boyfriend or something different altogether. It makes you want to read to find out the reason behind her dreams and to find out who this dream boy is.
It's a poignant love-story in which the main character has to choose between two boys - both of whom she loves - with the knowledge she can only ever really have one of them. The question is, which one does she really want? And what is she willing to sacrifice to get that boy?
In Dreams is beautifully written and leaves me eager to see what will happen next in this tale. Definitely worth getting (It's free still today and after that the cheap price of 0.99 at Amazon).
You also get a sneak peek of the next novel in the series, and can I tell you it will leave you wanting much much more.
In Dreams introduces us to Katherine, a girl who dreams about a boy she has never meet. She doesn't know why she's dreaming about him, but she just knows every time she does she falls deeper and deeper in love with him. And there lies the problem. In falling in love with him, she is struggling to deal with the living and the dreamworld - a dreamworld that is more intriguing to her than the living.
She literally can not wait to dream - to see her dream boy. Then she meets Cooper, a real life living dream boy. The star of the hockey team, and someone who loves her completely. But he's still not the boy of her dreams. Katherine has to make the choice between what is real and what is not real? The prize? True love.
Firstly, I've got to say a few pages in I was interested but not overly interested. I almost put it down. I say almost, because I decided to read a few more pages. Then a few more pages after that. Well, you get the gist. An hour later, I'd finished the book and found myself annoyed that I couldn't read the second one yet.
This storyline is unique in so many ways. I'm not going to spoil it and tell you why. You need to read it for yourself. The hook really is having a main character who dreams about a boy she doesn't know. It has you wondering if she does know him? If she'd had a memory lapse and he was her boyfriend or something different altogether. It makes you want to read to find out the reason behind her dreams and to find out who this dream boy is.
It's a poignant love-story in which the main character has to choose between two boys - both of whom she loves - with the knowledge she can only ever really have one of them. The question is, which one does she really want? And what is she willing to sacrifice to get that boy?
In Dreams is beautifully written and leaves me eager to see what will happen next in this tale. Definitely worth getting (It's free still today and after that the cheap price of 0.99 at Amazon).
You also get a sneak peek of the next novel in the series, and can I tell you it will leave you wanting much much more.
June 1, 2012
BBBAAAHHHAAAAAAAAAA !!!!!
ohhhh J.ster how u made me giggle !!!! i luv u !!!
the banter between Kat (the lead female character) & Taylor (her awesome best friend ) was just flat out funny !!! The classic 1 liners that Taylor came out with had me laughing out loud all the way thru the book !!!
eg:Taylor..."NO! Obviously he's smart. Only an idiot wouldn't want to date me. And since i dont date idiots, it all works out."
Tayor....."Fine, fine. Yes, u have to give Cooper a chance. Your country would want this. If you don't date Cooper, the terrorists win. Happy ?"
& 1 of my personel fav's teeehee
Taylor...."Are you crazy, Kat, or just dumb? Cooper has been trying to get you to go out with him since the moment he laid his stupid speckled eye on you"
lmao ohhhh Taylor i want u to be my best friend ........she reminds me of this totally funny chick i know hmmmmm i wonder who that might be ...lol oh u know who u r ABE lol
There is alot more to this book than just funniness ....ok is that even a word lol
the 1st part of this book is more about new luv ...Or luvs ;) with an awesome clever twist that will keep u conflicted , i fought with myself over being sensible & realistic or giving into the day dreamer in me that wanted the unrealistic !!!........hmmmmm jurys still out on that 1 lol
but as the book progressed & the plot deepened my mind opened to possiblities that could not be ignored .....i loved that !!!
I found myself sobbing at a point & just as i recovered ...BAMMMM !!! holy freaking crap WTF !!!!
OH YEP that is what i said !!! ohhh the awesome , freaky , clever twist at the end had me wanting to get on FB & msg ms Sterling to voice my shock !!.....unfortunately fb chose last night to do site maintanance so that was a no go lol
but dont worry to much peeps ;) when i finished this i had an awesome warm fuzzy feeling & a more open mind to what really could be possible :)
ok signing out in true sali style
ROCK ON BITCHES MWAHHHHHHH
ohhhh J.ster how u made me giggle !!!! i luv u !!!
the banter between Kat (the lead female character) & Taylor (her awesome best friend ) was just flat out funny !!! The classic 1 liners that Taylor came out with had me laughing out loud all the way thru the book !!!
eg:Taylor..."NO! Obviously he's smart. Only an idiot wouldn't want to date me. And since i dont date idiots, it all works out."
Tayor....."Fine, fine. Yes, u have to give Cooper a chance. Your country would want this. If you don't date Cooper, the terrorists win. Happy ?"
& 1 of my personel fav's teeehee
Taylor...."Are you crazy, Kat, or just dumb? Cooper has been trying to get you to go out with him since the moment he laid his stupid speckled eye on you"
lmao ohhhh Taylor i want u to be my best friend ........she reminds me of this totally funny chick i know hmmmmm i wonder who that might be ...lol oh u know who u r ABE lol
There is alot more to this book than just funniness ....ok is that even a word lol
the 1st part of this book is more about new luv ...Or luvs ;) with an awesome clever twist that will keep u conflicted , i fought with myself over being sensible & realistic or giving into the day dreamer in me that wanted the unrealistic !!!........hmmmmm jurys still out on that 1 lol
but as the book progressed & the plot deepened my mind opened to possiblities that could not be ignored .....i loved that !!!
I found myself sobbing at a point & just as i recovered ...BAMMMM !!! holy freaking crap WTF !!!!
OH YEP that is what i said !!! ohhh the awesome , freaky , clever twist at the end had me wanting to get on FB & msg ms Sterling to voice my shock !!.....unfortunately fb chose last night to do site maintanance so that was a no go lol
but dont worry to much peeps ;) when i finished this i had an awesome warm fuzzy feeling & a more open mind to what really could be possible :)
ok signing out in true sali style
ROCK ON BITCHES MWAHHHHHHH
June 20, 2012
Received this free on my kindle! It's been on there since January, but I finally got a chance to read it today. I'm not sure how different the new version is from the version I have, but it's definitely interesting! I really loved the beginning of this book! From the beginning, we already know there's a love triangle. Love triangles are really frustrating, and to be honest, I thought this was a stand alone book. But, apparently it's a series! Who knew.
Anyways, I thought this was a contemporary and realistic read. But, oh was I wrong. This is a paranormal type of book, and it's interesting! The plot is pretty predictable at times, and when Taylor mentioned that she had a , I'm thinking - why would the author mention this! .
Don't want to give too much away, but the ending? Wow. It was definitely completely different and just out there. I didn't see it coming at all, and it just came out of no where. And to be honest, I don't know who I was rooting for in the love triangle. They're both great guys. But the only thing is that Cooper's the only one that's . So, not much of a decision there, is there?
A fast paced and quick read! Plus, it's free!
Anyways, I thought this was a contemporary and realistic read. But, oh was I wrong. This is a paranormal type of book, and it's interesting! The plot is pretty predictable at times, and when Taylor mentioned that she had a , I'm thinking - why would the author mention this! .
Don't want to give too much away, but the ending? Wow. It was definitely completely different and just out there. I didn't see it coming at all, and it just came out of no where. And to be honest, I don't know who I was rooting for in the love triangle. They're both great guys. But the only thing is that Cooper's the only one that's . So, not much of a decision there, is there?
A fast paced and quick read! Plus, it's free!
August 27, 2011
Katherine is having dreams about a boy she doesn’t know. But they feel so real to her that she wakes up from them feeling lost and lonely without him. Than there is Cooper in her real life that she is drawn to but she can’t let go of her dream boy to fully commit to Cooper. It’s not until she goes to Thanksgiving dinner at her college room mate Taylor’s house and finds out who she is dreaming about. What happens next is shocking and heartbreaking at the same time for both Katherine and Taylor. Katherine with drawls from real life and Cooper who loves her so much to stay in her dreams with the boy she loves more than she has ever loved anybody. Until fate steps in and makes the decision that Katherine herself can not make.
In Dreams is a wonderfully written book about soul mates and reincarnation. I am looking forward to reading more from J. Sterling.
July 16, 2012
Fresh. Original. Amazing!! I read this book so fast that I feel like I had a one night stand that took me through every emotion and left me exhilerated but drained. I don't even know where to begin to tell you why I liked this book so much. I was intrigued from the very beginning. I found myself trying to figure out what the heck was going on, then I began guessing at what was going on. Sometimes I was right but there was always a twist that kept me enthralled. I kept expecting the characters to let me down but they never did. They were wonderful, happy, realistic people that acted in a way that affirms my belief that most humans are basically good. (OK... Maybe not realistic but hey, I'm a writer! We live for unrealistic!) The ending was very satisfying and only left me sad because it was over. Like I said, happily drained. The sign of a perfect book. I wouldn't change a thing.
August 23, 2011
In Dreams is a perfect paranormal romance with a 'dreamy' enchantment that all of us have wished for. But it is also a mystery and has raw emotions of longing and confusion and heartbreak.
J. Sterling puts forth a literary gem and asks us to choose, along with the heroine(Katherine)of the story.I read this book in one sitting as it is light enough and at the same time very poignant. The twist and the end left me breathless and in tears. Can not wait to read the next one!!! Highly recommended.
J. Sterling puts forth a literary gem and asks us to choose, along with the heroine(Katherine)of the story.I read this book in one sitting as it is light enough and at the same time very poignant. The twist and the end left me breathless and in tears. Can not wait to read the next one!!! Highly recommended.
May 14, 2012
In Dreams has got to be one of the most amazing books that I have read all year! Kathrine thinks that she has her dream boy all figured out and while searching for him meets Cooper. Cooper is the guy that everyone wants...except for Katherine who cannot get over her dream guy. In Dreams is the book that has you sucked in from the first page and takes you on an emotional roller coaster that you would never want to get off of.
October 23, 2011
“In Dreams” is a feel-good, heart warming, love story with an unexpected twist, aimed at young adults. The characters are hip and sassy; and the dialogue witty and laugh-out-loud! By the third chapter, you already feel yourself drawn in by the honesty and raw emotions the characters exude; which makes this an overall fun read to be enjoyed on a sunny afternoon, next to the pool.
January 27, 2012
I loved the premise of this novel. J. Sterling delivers a fascinating romance!
May 19, 2012
I happened upon this book while it was a free download on Amazon and I'm glad I got it...I would've gotten it even if I had to pay for it
April 22, 2018
4.5 stars
May 5, 2012
In Dreams is a story about Kathrine who is currently away at college and is roommate to Taylor. Taylor worries about Kathrine when she wakes her up and Kathrine is startled because the dream she had felt so real. She and Taylor set out to find the dream guy. Later they go to a party and Kathrine meets Cooper, the most popular guy in school. He is attracted to Kathrine and the talk. She is also attracted to him but feels connected to the dream guy too. After some time the two start to date. Kathrine enjoys her new relationship but is torn between her growing feels for Dream Guy and real life guy Cooper. On Thanksgiving break with Taylor she finds out who Dream Guy is. She and Taylor are shocked by this. Kathrine becomes more distant from reality and grows more attached to her dream world. Kathrine soon has to choose between the Dream Guy she loves or her real life love Cooper.
In Dreams in an emotional journey that proves love can span time and dreams. J. Sterling wrote a beautiful and sad tale about love and loss. I enjoyed this story from beginning to end. J. did an awesome job in writing this interesting storyline with great characters.
I like the idea that you can have a soul mate out there, the one that completes you. In Kathrine's case her's has such strong feelings for her that he can break the barrier of the dream world to be with her.
While reading part of me wanted to dislike Kathrine because she seemed obsessed about the dream guy and she had a real life one standing before her. I then understood her. I mean the idea of having this perfect dream guy can be tempting especially when dreams seem safer than real life.
I loved Taylor's character. No matter how crazy her friend sounded she stood by her and wanted the best for her. That is a true friend. Most people would have ran for the hills.
Kylie is a character that I didn't like at first. You think that she is up to something always and she has a big chip on her shoulders. Then you find out that she is only like that because she hasn't really moved past the grief of loosing her first love to a car accident, well I felt bad for not liking her then.
I liked that unlike most books that are similar to this one, the competing suitors are not on the same plane. Cooper is her real life boyfriend while her dream guy/soul mate has passed on and is connecting with her in her dreams. That takes competition to a new level. You would think that the answer would be a no brainer, but like I said before sometimes the dream world seems safer than the real one.
My main dislike of the book is that I wish Kathrine was a stronger character. She can be wishy washy at times. I wanted her to have more of a back bone.
This was a fascinating read. It did have a part in in that made me go WTH?!. Overall great book. You may need a Kleenex or two. **I didn't mention the dream guy's name because I feel that it will give too much away.
In Dreams in an emotional journey that proves love can span time and dreams. J. Sterling wrote a beautiful and sad tale about love and loss. I enjoyed this story from beginning to end. J. did an awesome job in writing this interesting storyline with great characters.
I like the idea that you can have a soul mate out there, the one that completes you. In Kathrine's case her's has such strong feelings for her that he can break the barrier of the dream world to be with her.
While reading part of me wanted to dislike Kathrine because she seemed obsessed about the dream guy and she had a real life one standing before her. I then understood her. I mean the idea of having this perfect dream guy can be tempting especially when dreams seem safer than real life.
I loved Taylor's character. No matter how crazy her friend sounded she stood by her and wanted the best for her. That is a true friend. Most people would have ran for the hills.
Kylie is a character that I didn't like at first. You think that she is up to something always and she has a big chip on her shoulders. Then you find out that she is only like that because she hasn't really moved past the grief of loosing her first love to a car accident, well I felt bad for not liking her then.
I liked that unlike most books that are similar to this one, the competing suitors are not on the same plane. Cooper is her real life boyfriend while her dream guy/soul mate has passed on and is connecting with her in her dreams. That takes competition to a new level. You would think that the answer would be a no brainer, but like I said before sometimes the dream world seems safer than the real one.
My main dislike of the book is that I wish Kathrine was a stronger character. She can be wishy washy at times. I wanted her to have more of a back bone.
This was a fascinating read. It did have a part in in that made me go WTH?!. Overall great book. You may need a Kleenex or two. **I didn't mention the dream guy's name because I feel that it will give too much away.
October 18, 2011
Bright and likeable teenager, Katherine has been dreaming. Dreaming about a...dare I say it...perfectly dreamy young man. Said dreamy young man seems to be as enamored with Katherine as she is with him. What a perfectly splendid way to spend quality time in the Land of Z-zzzs!
And when Katherine is wide-awake, things are even better. Ice Hockey God and all around nice-guy, Cooper Donovan seems to be falling shyly in love with Katherine. And lucky ol’Kath isn’t exactly immune to the charms of Mr.Most-Sought-After-Campus-Hottie.
But what happens when Katherine discovers that her dream boy isn’t merely a figment of her imagination? What happens when our shell-shocked heroine is faced with the shocking fact that the boy who passionately haunts her dreams is in fact her best friend’s deceased brother?!?
In Dreams is a likeable book with a tasty premise.
Have you ever woken up from a dream, so heart-wrenchingly solid that you wanted to disconnect from reality and float on the cloud of your sub-conscious? I have had such moments and so instantly connected with that little bit at the start of the story.
One of my favourite characters was Taylor (Katherine’s best friend and dream boy’s sister). She was that rare blend of cheeky room-mate, compassionate voice-of-reason and supportive best friend. We definitely need more Taylors in our daily lives. Katherine was a comme ci, comme ça heroine for me. She appealed at the start of the book as a grounded teenager with the right attitude. But midway, I lost a bit of affection for her. I find it hard to sympathize with a girl who has this perfectly lovely boyfriend mooning over her in reality while she’s also enjoying being mooned over by another perfectly adorable (albeit dead) boyfriend in the land of her dreams. Cooper Donovan, I loved. *Sprinkles annoying mental glitter all over him*. The guy screams Hero material. I liked his lumbering charm. I admired his flashes of painful honesty when he wore his heart on his sleeve. I loved him for being just a tad insecure.
The story is a quick read based on a quirky idea. The author, I suspect, is a happy (in her own words :”bathed in sunshine”) soul and her optimism shines through in the thought processes of some of the characters. I like that in a book.
In the end, I’m not one for drama and gloopy mascara running down my face.Give me a book with smidgens of positivity and I’m set for a while.
And when Katherine is wide-awake, things are even better. Ice Hockey God and all around nice-guy, Cooper Donovan seems to be falling shyly in love with Katherine. And lucky ol’Kath isn’t exactly immune to the charms of Mr.Most-Sought-After-Campus-Hottie.
But what happens when Katherine discovers that her dream boy isn’t merely a figment of her imagination? What happens when our shell-shocked heroine is faced with the shocking fact that the boy who passionately haunts her dreams is in fact her best friend’s deceased brother?!?
In Dreams is a likeable book with a tasty premise.
Have you ever woken up from a dream, so heart-wrenchingly solid that you wanted to disconnect from reality and float on the cloud of your sub-conscious? I have had such moments and so instantly connected with that little bit at the start of the story.
One of my favourite characters was Taylor (Katherine’s best friend and dream boy’s sister). She was that rare blend of cheeky room-mate, compassionate voice-of-reason and supportive best friend. We definitely need more Taylors in our daily lives. Katherine was a comme ci, comme ça heroine for me. She appealed at the start of the book as a grounded teenager with the right attitude. But midway, I lost a bit of affection for her. I find it hard to sympathize with a girl who has this perfectly lovely boyfriend mooning over her in reality while she’s also enjoying being mooned over by another perfectly adorable (albeit dead) boyfriend in the land of her dreams. Cooper Donovan, I loved. *Sprinkles annoying mental glitter all over him*. The guy screams Hero material. I liked his lumbering charm. I admired his flashes of painful honesty when he wore his heart on his sleeve. I loved him for being just a tad insecure.
The story is a quick read based on a quirky idea. The author, I suspect, is a happy (in her own words :”bathed in sunshine”) soul and her optimism shines through in the thought processes of some of the characters. I like that in a book.
In the end, I’m not one for drama and gloopy mascara running down my face.Give me a book with smidgens of positivity and I’m set for a while.
November 11, 2011
I honestly don’t know what genre “In Dreams” belongs to, but I can say that it’s a light, feel good paranormal romance. It’s paranormal because of the “dream” element and stuff, other than that, it’s just your normal contemporary romance novel.
There are just so many things to be said in this book. While I liked the book’s honesty and omniscience to all of the character’s feelings, I can’t really pinpoint an exact reason to why I gave it 2 stars less from the perfect one. I loved knowing each character’s thoughts (though I thought the gap or transition from one character to another was just short). I really liked the story, however I didn’t like Katherine’s indecision. I think I have this issue with girls who can’t just decide whom to choose where the decision is so obvious already (I’m talking about Calla in the Nightshade series, anyway). The answer is rubbed in on her face already yet she’s just stubborn. There’s this great guy, really great guy, Cooper, and we are told that she’s also very attracted to him. Yet, this dream, this certain dream with a certain UNknown stranger guy gets her hooked up so much that it held her from truly falling for Cooper, who’s oozing hotness. If you’re gonna say “that’s part of the story”, well, I know that, and that’s one part that made me agitated. ‘Cause I know all of this is for the build-up of the story, but I still hate the fact that Katherine refused to acknowledge that reality is much more important. Also, the part where katherine and Austen (the dream guy) had lots of lives from the past and I think that part didn’t go anywhere. I mean, i know it’s to show they’re soul mates and what’s between them is real epic love, but it stopped there. In the end, I liked how Austen and Cooper were cool with each other, though sappy, I liked it, it was fitting. However!
This was a really different read. If you love to be sappy, and you want to have a nice, comfortable, yet complicated read but is still very much enjoyable, this one’s for you. :)
*Special thanks to J. Sterling for giving me a copy of her novel, I enjoyed it much!*
There are just so many things to be said in this book. While I liked the book’s honesty and omniscience to all of the character’s feelings, I can’t really pinpoint an exact reason to why I gave it 2 stars less from the perfect one. I loved knowing each character’s thoughts (though I thought the gap or transition from one character to another was just short). I really liked the story, however I didn’t like Katherine’s indecision. I think I have this issue with girls who can’t just decide whom to choose where the decision is so obvious already (I’m talking about Calla in the Nightshade series, anyway). The answer is rubbed in on her face already yet she’s just stubborn. There’s this great guy, really great guy, Cooper, and we are told that she’s also very attracted to him. Yet, this dream, this certain dream with a certain UNknown stranger guy gets her hooked up so much that it held her from truly falling for Cooper, who’s oozing hotness. If you’re gonna say “that’s part of the story”, well, I know that, and that’s one part that made me agitated. ‘Cause I know all of this is for the build-up of the story, but I still hate the fact that Katherine refused to acknowledge that reality is much more important. Also, the part where katherine and Austen (the dream guy) had lots of lives from the past and I think that part didn’t go anywhere. I mean, i know it’s to show they’re soul mates and what’s between them is real epic love, but it stopped there. In the end, I liked how Austen and Cooper were cool with each other, though sappy, I liked it, it was fitting. However!
This was a really different read. If you love to be sappy, and you want to have a nice, comfortable, yet complicated read but is still very much enjoyable, this one’s for you. :)
*Special thanks to J. Sterling for giving me a copy of her novel, I enjoyed it much!*
June 14, 2016
Probably 4.5. I loved this book and really haven’t been able to stop thinking about it, despite a few issues I had with the story. Some things seemed entirely too implausible and unbelievable--especially that so many people would just buy into Katherine’s dream guy with no skepticism or question. Many people seemed very quick to believe/encourage her--just blindly accepted that such a thing was possible and completely real. Some of the POV changes in the story confused me a little, too, and I was frustrated with Kat quite a bit in the story (see SPOILERS section below). Also, seemed to be some plot points (e.g. things that happened in the very first dream and some thoughts Kat’s dream guy had later in the story) that were never really addressed or wrapped up. But, despite all of this, the story was really good! Unique ideas, an unpredictable ending, some surprises I didn’t see coming, and the story was very sweet and romantic. I loved the characters, particularly Cooper. The dream guy didn’t have as much depth as I would have liked, which caused me to feel disconnected/distant from him, not buy into the emotions expressed, and often not really understand Kat’s feelings and actions. But, I really liked all of the characters’ growth over time, the realizations Kat had, and Coop’s steadfastness and love. Overall, I was really drawn into the story and couldn’t put it down. I’m excited to read any future stories written about these characters and/or by this author!
**SPOILERS**: .
**SPOILERS**: .
February 5, 2012
If I forget for a moment the plot of this book, which I do not believe in, and simply concentrate on whether or not the author pulled off the story, I must say "no." This book was ripe with mistakes. The grammar, punctuation, and capitalization from start to finish was terrible, causing me to ask if it was edited at all. Simple sentence structure and comma usage was entirely ignored. Several sentences had dangling modifiers that left me giggling - in particular, the sentence where Kat was applying mascara to her eyes. This sounds painful to me.
As to story structure, the author repeatedly indulged in "head hopping," leaping from one point of view to the next at random. I was eternally confused by who was speaking. Within the same dialogues (which were often unnatural sounding) two people would both speak. After a while, I longed for the author to show me the story instead of telling so much of it to me. More than half the book was "he felt this" and "she felt that." Give me the actions of the characters instead and let me figure out how they feel. Lastly, the vocabulary of the book was a bit juvenile. There are more words to describe a guy than "hot" and more ways to indicate quantities than "a lot" or "lots of."
As to the plot, to pull off a story of this nature the writing surrounding it has to be really outstanding. However, for me it was a miserable failure. I do not think people would be so understanding of Katherine's dreams, nor would two guys loving the same girl get along that well. I was a bit surprised by the ending and glad the author tied up the loose ends. However, given the lack of proficiency at writing and the absence of a good editor, I cannot recommend this book to anyone. I am a bit sorry I read it myself, except for what I learned about how not to write.
As to story structure, the author repeatedly indulged in "head hopping," leaping from one point of view to the next at random. I was eternally confused by who was speaking. Within the same dialogues (which were often unnatural sounding) two people would both speak. After a while, I longed for the author to show me the story instead of telling so much of it to me. More than half the book was "he felt this" and "she felt that." Give me the actions of the characters instead and let me figure out how they feel. Lastly, the vocabulary of the book was a bit juvenile. There are more words to describe a guy than "hot" and more ways to indicate quantities than "a lot" or "lots of."
As to the plot, to pull off a story of this nature the writing surrounding it has to be really outstanding. However, for me it was a miserable failure. I do not think people would be so understanding of Katherine's dreams, nor would two guys loving the same girl get along that well. I was a bit surprised by the ending and glad the author tied up the loose ends. However, given the lack of proficiency at writing and the absence of a good editor, I cannot recommend this book to anyone. I am a bit sorry I read it myself, except for what I learned about how not to write.
September 19, 2012
This book is intended for YA readers 12 and up, but I love J. Sterling so I didn’t even read the about the book snippet before reading it. I read Chance Encounters and liked it and decided to buy whatever others books she had on amazon (while anxiously awaiting her new release The Perfect Game). (I only feel this is important to tell you in light of some of my other 3 – 5 star review books that contain a lot more of the physical aspects of a relationship, this one does not.)
Katherine (Kat) Johns is a freshman in college who moves all the way across the country for school (really Jenn, she traded Cali for Jersey? – one eye brow raised in question!). She is a good girl from a good home just wanted something different. She is rooming with Taylor who is from around the area the college is in and they become immediate friends.
Kat has a dream about a mystery guy who she feels an instant connection to (in her dream of course) and when she wakes up the feeling of him is all around her. Taylor is sure that this guy might actually exist and they set out to find him.
Instead of the dream guy the girls found Cooper Donovan (a dreamy guy!) who Kat also found an instant attraction to. He’s sweet, caring, athletic, and totally into her. I LOVED Cooper! “If you don’t date Cooper the terrorists win”
So what should she do, live the life that is going on right in front of her with a totally hot guy who is pretty much perfect? Or keep hoping to meet the dream guy?
In Dreams came at the perfect time for me. I have been reading a lot of angst-ridden books lately that have been messing with my head and my heart and while this book has it’s drama to keep you entertained, it was light enough that I didn’t feel messed up when it was over, I just felt happy. Now I just have to sit back and wait for the sequel, which is actually a prequel! :)
Katherine (Kat) Johns is a freshman in college who moves all the way across the country for school (really Jenn, she traded Cali for Jersey? – one eye brow raised in question!). She is a good girl from a good home just wanted something different. She is rooming with Taylor who is from around the area the college is in and they become immediate friends.
Kat has a dream about a mystery guy who she feels an instant connection to (in her dream of course) and when she wakes up the feeling of him is all around her. Taylor is sure that this guy might actually exist and they set out to find him.
Instead of the dream guy the girls found Cooper Donovan (a dreamy guy!) who Kat also found an instant attraction to. He’s sweet, caring, athletic, and totally into her. I LOVED Cooper! “If you don’t date Cooper the terrorists win”
So what should she do, live the life that is going on right in front of her with a totally hot guy who is pretty much perfect? Or keep hoping to meet the dream guy?
In Dreams came at the perfect time for me. I have been reading a lot of angst-ridden books lately that have been messing with my head and my heart and while this book has it’s drama to keep you entertained, it was light enough that I didn’t feel messed up when it was over, I just felt happy. Now I just have to sit back and wait for the sequel, which is actually a prequel! :)
October 22, 2011
Okay so I just finished your book In Dreams. Its pretty late here in India but I wanted you to know what I am thinking and what I have to say about this book.
I am very picky about the books I read. While choosing a book I like to think that it might be one of those books which I will read again and again. When I started reading the book I was just curious about Cooper, I hadn't given thought to Austen's character. Then as I came to know Katherine further in the book I realized that this book had major love triangle scenes coming. I am great fan of Love triangles because its tricky for the author to choose one over another.
Obviously then I realized that I loved both Austen's character and Cooper's character so I couldn't read further when I knew there is sad part coming when Katherine has to decide. So I took a half hour break and then realized I had to know what happens in the end. So here I am after finishing the book.
Let me tell you I have read very few books on soul mate concepts and then some on reincarnations and old souls. Now it may sound crazy but I believe them to be true, So I like reading books about them. This book was like a chocolate to a chocolate addict for me. I loved the book. I felt I was one with the characters. I laughed and cried with them as they went through the good parts and the not so good I mean sad parts.
The icing to the cake was the perfect ending of the book. There could not have been a more perfect ending than the one you provided with. Normally I don't regret bad endings if the book is good. Good endings though are much more satisfying for me. I am more than satisfied with how you ended the book.
I am dying to read what you have got next in mind for this series.Absolutely loved the book!!
I am very picky about the books I read. While choosing a book I like to think that it might be one of those books which I will read again and again. When I started reading the book I was just curious about Cooper, I hadn't given thought to Austen's character. Then as I came to know Katherine further in the book I realized that this book had major love triangle scenes coming. I am great fan of Love triangles because its tricky for the author to choose one over another.
Obviously then I realized that I loved both Austen's character and Cooper's character so I couldn't read further when I knew there is sad part coming when Katherine has to decide. So I took a half hour break and then realized I had to know what happens in the end. So here I am after finishing the book.
Let me tell you I have read very few books on soul mate concepts and then some on reincarnations and old souls. Now it may sound crazy but I believe them to be true, So I like reading books about them. This book was like a chocolate to a chocolate addict for me. I loved the book. I felt I was one with the characters. I laughed and cried with them as they went through the good parts and the not so good I mean sad parts.
The icing to the cake was the perfect ending of the book. There could not have been a more perfect ending than the one you provided with. Normally I don't regret bad endings if the book is good. Good endings though are much more satisfying for me. I am more than satisfied with how you ended the book.
I am dying to read what you have got next in mind for this series.Absolutely loved the book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2012
I would like to thank the author for giving me an ecopy of her book for review purposes.
07-16-2012
I haven't finished reading this, but I fear that if I do finish this my brain will turn into mush. Say something intelligent, Katherine! I feel like if I continue reading I will turn into a shallow, love-obsessed teen.
There is too much tell in this book and almost no show. How am I supposed to feel, smell, hear, or even see anything if all I get is: "He was beautiful. She was a bitch. I was sexy."? How can I tell if the character is beautiful or gorgeous or a bitch or sexy if all I get are these words, which can't even give me a clear image of the character.
Update 07-21-2012
I cannot! I just really cannot stomach this book! The writing is too much! The unrealistic plot and characters are too much! If I were Dr. Macario Tiu (a panelist from the writers workshop I recently joined) I would say what he usually says to stories that don't even make sense, "Ilabay ni sa Bankerohan river. (Throw this to the Bankerohan river.)" Or, in the words of another panelist, "This is crap!"
I can't believe I survived reading this book without turning stupid!
Bad writing! Bad plot! Bad everything! I've read so many badly written fan fiction. And I can group In Dreams with them.
Probably, shallow, mindless teenage girls will love this. But I am not a shallow and mindless teenager. I am a 20-year-old woman, who is taking up Management Accounting, who is dead serious in passing all of her subjects (but still tries to have fun), and who does not have time for love (I rely on YA books for me to feel the love-tingles).
I suggest to the author to read more and to practice writing more.
07-16-2012
I haven't finished reading this, but I fear that if I do finish this my brain will turn into mush. Say something intelligent, Katherine! I feel like if I continue reading I will turn into a shallow, love-obsessed teen.
There is too much tell in this book and almost no show. How am I supposed to feel, smell, hear, or even see anything if all I get is: "He was beautiful. She was a bitch. I was sexy."? How can I tell if the character is beautiful or gorgeous or a bitch or sexy if all I get are these words, which can't even give me a clear image of the character.
Update 07-21-2012
I cannot! I just really cannot stomach this book! The writing is too much! The unrealistic plot and characters are too much! If I were Dr. Macario Tiu (a panelist from the writers workshop I recently joined) I would say what he usually says to stories that don't even make sense, "Ilabay ni sa Bankerohan river. (Throw this to the Bankerohan river.)" Or, in the words of another panelist, "This is crap!"
I can't believe I survived reading this book without turning stupid!
Bad writing! Bad plot! Bad everything! I've read so many badly written fan fiction. And I can group In Dreams with them.
Probably, shallow, mindless teenage girls will love this. But I am not a shallow and mindless teenager. I am a 20-year-old woman, who is taking up Management Accounting, who is dead serious in passing all of her subjects (but still tries to have fun), and who does not have time for love (I rely on YA books for me to feel the love-tingles).
I suggest to the author to read more and to practice writing more.
June 21, 2012
Hmmm... I almost gave up on this book at the beginning. I had a hard time getting into it, and I think it was mostly due to the dialogue and the shifting POV (which I think is a common problem with a lot of writers, btw). I imagine the author pictured it more like how a movie is filmed, you know, in one room with one character, and then jumping into another room to give us a view of what someone else is up to. That's a little rough on a reader though. The dialogue... I think I had the biggest problems with the conversations between the two female leads. They come off as a tad ridiculous and not believable in their interactions. (although now that I think about it, maybe I would be embarrassed if I could see myself with my college roommate 12 years ago) I also had a hard time believing that both these girls had no problem believing that some guy in a dream was probably real. It's not realistic. I think the roommate should have told her she was crazy the first time and then slowly come around to the idea. Or maybe she doesn't come around at all until Kat sees the picture, and then Kat remembers all kinds of things that Austen told her and realizes they were about Taylor, and THEN Taylor believes. I don't know.
I liked the idea of this book, I really did. And I found myself invested in feeling bad for Cooper, so it didn't totally have zero effect on me.
I know the author reads these comments, so I wanted to say that after trying my hand at my first NaNoWriMo last year, I have total respect for people who actually finish a book (I didn't!) and do the hard work to get it edited and out there. Good luck on future books!
I liked the idea of this book, I really did. And I found myself invested in feeling bad for Cooper, so it didn't totally have zero effect on me.
I know the author reads these comments, so I wanted to say that after trying my hand at my first NaNoWriMo last year, I have total respect for people who actually finish a book (I didn't!) and do the hard work to get it edited and out there. Good luck on future books!
June 25, 2013
(I'm stealing my own review from Amazon when I got this book for free.)
I'm so glad this book was free, I wouldn't have paid for it or I would have asked for my money back. The book was too choppy, the conversations the people had were terrible, I don't believe I've ever heard a college student say "Oh Gosh" Or "Oh my Gosh" as many times as the main character did. She has little to no self esteem, doesn't believe she is pretty or that guys find her attractive when they clearly do. There is very little to no emotions or facial expressions of any time what so ever. They sometimes cry or smile and the author mentions eyes like 50,000 times.
The book holds little to NO description value what so ever. I don't even KNOW what the main girl looks like, save for the brown hair and that her friend is blonde. The guy who is after her is the most described person out of the whole book, and even then I couldn't really picture him.
Again the book is choppy, unrealistic and YES I know it's a fictional book, but to a point you can make fictional books realistically fictionally. I think the woman that wrote this book needs to re-do the book or at least go back to school for a more practical approach for how people interact and what she should write to be more descriptive. I really...HAD to force myself to finish the book, because the concept of the book was cool. I just wish it was written better.
I KNOW this is for YA, I get that. However, vocab and writing shouldn't be limited to a genre.
I'm so glad this book was free, I wouldn't have paid for it or I would have asked for my money back. The book was too choppy, the conversations the people had were terrible, I don't believe I've ever heard a college student say "Oh Gosh" Or "Oh my Gosh" as many times as the main character did. She has little to no self esteem, doesn't believe she is pretty or that guys find her attractive when they clearly do. There is very little to no emotions or facial expressions of any time what so ever. They sometimes cry or smile and the author mentions eyes like 50,000 times.
The book holds little to NO description value what so ever. I don't even KNOW what the main girl looks like, save for the brown hair and that her friend is blonde. The guy who is after her is the most described person out of the whole book, and even then I couldn't really picture him.
Again the book is choppy, unrealistic and YES I know it's a fictional book, but to a point you can make fictional books realistically fictionally. I think the woman that wrote this book needs to re-do the book or at least go back to school for a more practical approach for how people interact and what she should write to be more descriptive. I really...HAD to force myself to finish the book, because the concept of the book was cool. I just wish it was written better.
I KNOW this is for YA, I get that. However, vocab and writing shouldn't be limited to a genre.
October 19, 2011
In Dreams is about a girl named Katherine Johns who starts dreaming about a guy she has no clue who he is. All she knows is that he makes her feel all kinds of love. After telling her college roommate Taylor about the "Dream Guy", Taylor makes it her mission to scope out any guy that could actually be him.
I started reading In Dreams about 3 days ago. Not used to reading from the screen of my laptop I soldiered on through headaches and blurred vision.
First off, the characters. Taylor especially. I loved how honest she was. And equally crazy as her boyfriend Danny. Who were absolutely perfect for eachother. There wasn't really one character I didn't like apart from Kylie in a few places. The love between both couple and dream guy spewed out from every page. I felt my heart break and warm whenever Katherine's did in the book. It was so well written I felt like I was side by side with all of them walking through their lives. Also what I loved about "In Dreams" was how you know what everyone is thinking. Everyone has their own opinion and point of view in the book so you know how they are seeing it.
I literally had to wipe the tears of joy and heartache every 15 minutes.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone!!! It is a beautiful story that is easily enjoyable and I give it a 5/5. Well done J Sterling for writing a wonderful piece. I just hope I can dream up a guy as good as Cooper or Austen ;)
I started reading In Dreams about 3 days ago. Not used to reading from the screen of my laptop I soldiered on through headaches and blurred vision.
First off, the characters. Taylor especially. I loved how honest she was. And equally crazy as her boyfriend Danny. Who were absolutely perfect for eachother. There wasn't really one character I didn't like apart from Kylie in a few places. The love between both couple and dream guy spewed out from every page. I felt my heart break and warm whenever Katherine's did in the book. It was so well written I felt like I was side by side with all of them walking through their lives. Also what I loved about "In Dreams" was how you know what everyone is thinking. Everyone has their own opinion and point of view in the book so you know how they are seeing it.
I literally had to wipe the tears of joy and heartache every 15 minutes.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone!!! It is a beautiful story that is easily enjoyable and I give it a 5/5. Well done J Sterling for writing a wonderful piece. I just hope I can dream up a guy as good as Cooper or Austen ;)
June 19, 2012
In Dreams grabbed me in the first chapter and never let go. It actually crept in to my dreams!
The book follows young college students. While the central story is incredibly emotional and devastating all at the same time, the story between the friends is light.
The dialogue is incredibly and wonderfully relevant, something all YA readers will relate to. As a 29-year-old I laughed out loud several times at the interactions between the characters, because it was so much like conversations I had with my own friends in college.
I really appreciated the secondary details; the snooty best friend from home, hockey and what it means to those who play and watch it, and seat belt tans :)
The crux of In Dreams takes us in to the paranormal- but there are no vampires here. The main character, Katherine, has vivid and intense dreams about a man she's never met but feels an undeniable attraction to. When Katherine chooses to follow her dreams, literally,and search for this man with her roommate's encouragement. The story that follows reveals a great deal about love in the face of time and eternity.
A true YA read, which is something that's been lost by way of vampires and children killing children, this story is a wonderful young romance.
The book follows young college students. While the central story is incredibly emotional and devastating all at the same time, the story between the friends is light.
The dialogue is incredibly and wonderfully relevant, something all YA readers will relate to. As a 29-year-old I laughed out loud several times at the interactions between the characters, because it was so much like conversations I had with my own friends in college.
I really appreciated the secondary details; the snooty best friend from home, hockey and what it means to those who play and watch it, and seat belt tans :)
The crux of In Dreams takes us in to the paranormal- but there are no vampires here. The main character, Katherine, has vivid and intense dreams about a man she's never met but feels an undeniable attraction to. When Katherine chooses to follow her dreams, literally,and search for this man with her roommate's encouragement. The story that follows reveals a great deal about love in the face of time and eternity.
A true YA read, which is something that's been lost by way of vampires and children killing children, this story is a wonderful young romance.
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