Hidden in Dreams

Book of Dreams #2

by Davis Bunn

It’s not about understanding the prophecy. It’s about outliving it.

Dr. Elena Burroughs’s life is spiraling out of control. Her controversial stance on dream interpretation has cost her a job, a romance, and all credibility in academic circles. Her literary agent tries to leverage the outcry into a publicity tour, which soon attracts a quirky following. Among the skeptics and mystics is a condescending scientist. But Elena finds his research holds ominous parallels with her own. A certain dream pattern has foretold every major catastrophe stretching back to the dawn of civilization. And now this dream is repeating itself in countless nightmares across the globe.

Elena is confronted with a harrowing realization: the clock is ticking down to a cataclysmic financial collapse. Her desperation mounts as the prediction infiltrates her own dreams. Will this scientist become an unlikely ally—and maybe something more? Could an ancient biblical secret about the power of dreams and visions offer them an escape?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Suspense, Thriller, Fantasy

304 pages, Library Binding

First published July 3, 2012

About the author

Davis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than eight million books in twenty languages.

Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.

His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.

Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).

Reviews

[Jocelyn Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much. The topic is timely and should capture your attention right away, the characters were easy to relate to and understand, and the story moved along quickly. Bunn does a great job of using simple language (not simplistic, but not ornate) to transport readers into the story world, and he sustains interest until the last page. The spiritual elements aren't just inserted here and there, but are woven naturally throughout the book. In fact, the book would not be complete without the faith of the characters. This might be off-putting to a nonChristian, but Hidden in Dreams is written primarily for the Christian audience. If you are enjoy contemporary Christian novels, especially those with a little mystery and inspired by our current economic environment, you'll love this book.

[Cheryl Olson · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a reason that Davis Bunn is an award winning author with national bestsellers to his credit- he’s just plain good. And not only is he good, he is also diverse in his writing which is kind of fun as a reader to get different genres for the price of one. In his new sequel to The Book of Dreams, Davis Bunn brings Hidden in Dreams with the ever controversial Dr. Elena Burroughs once again at the center of things trying to pick up the pieces of her life that has somewhat spiraled out of control. As she is trying to rebuild her professional reputation, heal from a romance gone wrong and move forward in her life, she finds herself in the middle of yet another controversy involving dreams.

This time the controversy revolves around a nightmare that is very vivid and real and quite specific and is a warning in nature as several people around the globe are having the exact same dream. Elena herself is one of the “dreamers” and a real sense of foreboding and the need to share the news with the world, is present in every single person that dreams the dream. As Elena is trying to follow God’s lead on the whole dream phenomenon and what it might mean, she learns a lot along the way, about who God is, how he operates and who exactly He has brought into her life and for what purpose- that’s a lot for a girl to learn! Also present in this story is her arch nemesis Dr. Jacob Rawlings who all but ruined her professional reputation through a debate in which he dressed her down quite soundly with regards to her dream interpretation. However because of his own journey and situation with a client having the “dream” he is forced to re-think his stand on dreams himself, and as a result in working together, the two forge a friendship.

This story was very interesting to read and its pacing was picture perfect as the mystery and different parts to the story unfold. It was that book that kept you reading for sure to find out in the end what was going on and what it meant for all the people involved, end of the world stuff, or…? Very well done.

If you enjoy a page turner with great characters, a spiritual journey and a bit of mystery, I think you should pick up Hidden in Dreams by Davis Bunn. It’s a great read.

4 stars

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Christian Fiction Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden in Dreams is a ridiculously good read, one that was every bit as good as I had hoped for from Davis Bunn. Whenever I sit down to a book by Bunn, I know I am in for a treat, and this book was no exception. The writing was so vivid and intense, the author so successful at submerging me into the plot, that I had to consciously stop reading, force myself to relax, and remind myself I was reading fiction and that this was not reality - I hope! The plot is intricate, filled with unexpected twists, and a completely fascinating blend of science and spirituality. As with the first book in the series, Elena Burroughs is a compelling character, entirely likable and one who has my full sympathies and admiration. Watching her discern the truth of what she was experiencing provided for a few entertaining hours of reading pleasure, and I celebrated along with her as she met love along the way. Bunn continues to write with a masterful grasp of the written word, beautifully describing settings and scenes, and showing that it is indeed possible to write with beauty while providing a fast-paced ride at the same time.

In short, this is a stunning sequel that gripped me from the opening page and held me tightly in its grasp as I rocketed towards the end. I absolutely loved this book, and award it a full 5 out of 5 stars.

Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher, Howard Books, for the purposes of this unbiased review.

[Crusader93 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mystery exploring relevant and timely topics. Elements of faith are well-integrated and lend depth to the conflict between the protagonist and antagonist.

[Desiree Hagmayer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again I purchased a book at a library book sale and had zero indication it was part of a series. I very much enjoyed this book and other than the back story of losing her husband, didn't feel uninformed.
I very much enjoyed the plot line and the subject matter. I loved the thread of faith woven through out the book. There was suspense and intrigue and characters with layers, potential and repentance. All good stuff. 💕

[Jean Trainer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A FAST-PACED THRILLER

I so enjoyed the suspense and intrigue of this book. I read it straight through, couldn't put it down. The subject, the possibility of a global economic collapse, as well as psychological manipulation by persons of evil intent come together to create a great read. Another Davis Bunn smashing success!

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was better than the first. It was a little clearer and more defined. But again, it moved a little too fast and didn’t tie up all the threads. I feel like Davis Bunn has really good ideas for thrillers, but tries to put the ideas into books that are too short. Based on his thrillers I’ve read so far.

[Micah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure why this was considered as a sequel as the main character was the only thing that was carried over from the first book. So I found it very disappointing. It should have been written and read as a stand alone.

[Michael Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dream read

This is a book that I will read every year. I have a handful of books that I have read multiple times. This one will fit perfectly along side of Dream Voyager. I highly recommend this read.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Dreams of foreboding - from God? Intriguing premise which builds through the rest of this story of global panic and shadowed intentions.

[Andrea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was more involved than I am comfortable with for casual reading. Maybe I should have read #1 first.

[ML Couch · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably a 3.5 for me

I always enjoy Davis Bunn. His books always are a fast story, easy read, with good messages. This wasn’t my favorite or his, but I did enjoy it.

[Cynthia Horn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Didn't think I would like this book, just by reading the back cover. But once again, Davis Bunn did not disappoint!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Elena Burroughs, well-known for her controversial dream analysis work, finds herself in the lime-light of the highly pumped media, a position she abhors. They are hounding her about the almost identical, repetitive dreams coming from several individuals world-wide (aka “dreamers”), predicting cataclysmic financial upheavals. Her old enemies become new comrades to make sense of the dreams and whether they relate to side effects of a new drug, SuenaMed, used to treat ADHD.

The dreams, however, don’t really seem like actual dreams as much they appear as attacks or visions, repetitively overriding the dreamers’ thought patterns, causing a sense of urgency to tell the world.

Despite the tense episodes, a tentative romance develops between two gentlemen vying for Elena’s attention, making for an interesting dilemma for her. Her choice seems obvious up front, but circumstances change that make you wonder if she will change her mind. It calms down the chaos to help you get a breather from the hectic circumstances.

Foretelling through dreams is not a concept that I am familiar with, but it’s an interesting, creative concept for presenting cataclysmic overtones. Since we are currently living in a volatile financial world today, these dreams could easily send the public into a frantic frenzy. It seemed real enough to make me wonder for a time what would happen to my own finances should something like this happen. Davis has done a great job in upping the anxiety as the dreams unfold. The twists in the scenarios took me by surprise, making this another great read by Davis Bunn.

The qualities and peculiarities of each character seemed to be realistic and very tense at times due to the traumatic responses to the dreams. The tempo of the media, the rush to action to curb distress, the last-minute meetings, and the frenzy of the people were well described.

I did enjoy the aspect that some of her co-workers were fellow believers, and they were open to praying over situations, with Dr. Elena sensing protection because of their prayers.

Check out Davis Bunn’s book, Hidden in Dreams, for a new perspective on the possibilities of our world’s economics, as well as a great suspense. And don’t forget Book of Dreams by the same author, the prequel to this book.

My Rating:

I would rate the book at a 4.5. Davis did an excellent job at creatively presenting the chaotic scenarios with the public’s frantic frenzy of a ‘rush’ at the banks and the media race for first dibs on the dreams. The media can be like pariahs and people do panic! The book distinctly pulls on the emotions of the volatile financial market of today’s world.

I was confused over the issue of foretelling and prophecy, as there is a fine line between the two terms. I found this aspect disconcerting and a little off-kilter for me, feeding into the New Age ‘spiritual’ messages. I will agree it was handled quite well by Dr. Elena, though.

The fact that there are several books out on cataclysmic chaos in the financial world, this just seemed like just another one in some aspects. But Davis’ creativity puts it in a completely different realm.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Cynde · Rating 3 out of 5]

Continuing a character he introduced in his novel "Book Of Dreams", Davis Bunn has created a new thriller dealing with the aspects of the financial crisis around the globe.
In "Book of Dreams" we met Elena Burroughs a psychiatrist who specialized in dream interpretation. She is a confident, professional, a prayerful believer. She is approached by the wife of a government official about a recurring dream. It comes to light that several other people are having the same dream. The group works and prays together to solve the callings of God through these dreams. Through no real fault of her own, Elena’s interpretation and actions cause her house to be burned down, her office ransacked and the loss of her job. This is the point where we meet Elena in the sequel “Hidden in Dreams”. Elena has moved from Oxford, England to Florida and accepted a teaching position at a small Christian University. Because of her published book on dream interpretation, an executive of a pharmaceutical company contacts her to ask about a recurring dream that one of their test trial patients is having. The executive is hoping that the dream has nothing to do with a new drug for ADD they are developing and testing with the hope of bringing it to the market soon. Elena agrees to help, but begins to experience the same dream and finds that several people around the world are experiencing the dream as well. In this fast paced thriller we see Elena resort to prayer with trusted friends and other methods of investigation to find the clues behind these dreams. But these dreams are somehow different and she feels her prayers are unanswered.
Even though “Hidden in Dreams” is a sequel the two books can be read alone, the main character is the only carry over. I thoroughly enjoyed “Book of Dreams” finding it interesting, spiritual and exciting. I believed in the characters and while the dreams and the Christian interpretation of dreams was a new subject to me, I thoroughly believed that the group was able to work through the problems they faced through prayer and working together. In “Hidden in Dreams” the story seems rushed, with lots of loose ends that are never tied up such as the hurricane that seems a threat but never seems to get there or the budding love story between Elena and the college president that seems too quick. The book becomes more of a rushed thriller, with the characters rushing on planes from here to there and never really accomplishing anything. It rushes to a thriller typ ending that leaves the reader wanting more. The whole story feels more like a good outline for a good book.
If anything "Hidden in Dreams" debuncts all the good spiritual build up from the first book. It is almost as if Mr. Bunn is refuting everything he got you to believe in in the first book of the series. As thrillers go, “Hidden in Dreams” is a good, if short thriller as a read alone. I ,however, was really disappointed with the outcomes of this book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: HIDDEN IN DREAMS
Author: Davis Bunn
Publisher: Howard Books
July 2012
ISBN 978-1-4164-5672-5
Genre: Dreams \ Fiction \ Psychological Fiction

Do yourself a favor. The next time you receive a book by Davis Bunn, don’t look at the back jacket. Instead, open the book to page one and begin reading. Especially with HIDDEN IN DREAMS, this is really the only way that you can “get” the point this amazing author is trying to communicate. No preconceived notions . . . no spoilers . . . no peeking allowed.

Dr. Elena Burroughs is a clinical psychologist without a clinic, without a practice, without a clientele, and without a home. Offered the newly created Chair of Psychology at a small Florida university, Elena seizes the opportunity to start over. To retreat into a haven in which every aspect of her life was under her control. Well, one can always dream . . .

Out of the blue, Elena is approached by Rachel Lamprey, the sister of her now-deceased best, and oldest, friend. The pharmaceutical company that Rachel works for is preparing to release a new drug that will virtually eliminate ADHD. However, a test subject has suddenly begun having a dream. A recurring dream. A terrifying dream of future global financial ruin. And he’s not the only one. As a matter of fact, Elena has begun having the same dream.

Filled with a powerful compulsion to share her dream with whoever will listen, Elena is forced out of her comfort zone and assumes the mantle of spokesperson for the dreams. And as the dreams increase in number, and come true in terrifying precision, the urgency to share becomes overwhelming as well. You’ll have to read HIDDEN IN DREAMS to find out how it ends!

As a sidenote, which I hope readers will understand this reviewer sees as the foundation of this book, Davis Bunn has captured and communicated for us, in Elena Burroughs, what has been referred to in Scripture as “the burden of the Lord.” The prophets referred to in Scripture didn’t “sign up” for the job; they didn’t seek the position, and they rarely reaped any professional or monetary accolades for their work. In point of fact, they were ridiculed, rejected, and removed from life in a wide variety of cruel and unusual practices. Nonetheless, they remained true to their calling, and to their God, in a manner supremely worthy of emulation.






The prophet Jeremiah put it this way:

“ O LORD, You induced me, and I was persuaded; You are stronger than I, and have prevailed. I am in derision daily; Everyone mocks me. For when I spoke, I cried out; I shouted, "Violence and plunder!" Because the word of the LORD was made to me A reproach and a derision daily. Then I said, "I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name." But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not.”
Jeremiah 20:7-9 (NKJV)

HIDDEN IN DREAMS communicates this situation clearly, and challenges its readers to “take up the mantle,” and proclaim the message that God has given them. Are you up to the challenge? 5 stars. 238 pages. $14.99.

[Marliss Bombardier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a dream, the same dream, which I have dreamed for many years. The setting may be different, but the terror is the same. I am in the dark, and I cannot turn on the light.

Imagine my trepidation when I began reading Hidden in Dreams, by Davis Bunn. In this book, the same series of dreams is dreamt by several dreamers. They are dreams of financial ruin, personally and internationally. Hopefully, my dream is not prophetic, but these dreams seem to be, as events occur in the world. The question is the source. Are they from God? Is there a rational, scientific explanation? Must those who place their trust in science give credence to the fact that some things just cannot be explained without reference to spirituality and faith?

This book is a sequel to The Book of Dreams. Though it can be read without reading The Book of Dreams first, you will want to read The Book of Dreams also. Elena Burroughs, the protagonist in both books, is a fascinating character with a strong Christian faith which she depends on for direction even when God is silent.

Elena is only one of the rich characters in the book. She is drawn into the dreams mystery by Rachel Lamprey, the antagonistic sister of Elena’s dearest and oldest friend, Miriam, who figured in The Book of Dreams, giving the book of dreams to Elena before she died. Rachel repudiates everything Miriam stood for, but is really not so different from her after all. Jacob Rawlings, a behaviorist who has in the past brutally flayed Elena in a debate is drawn unwillingly into the dreams controversy when a patient of his shares the dreams. He wants a relationship with Elena, but there is one crucial thing missing. The president of Elena’s college, Reed Thompson, and his daughter, Stacy, are both stronger, more compassionate, and more faithful people because of the death of a wife and mother years ago. Even the chaotic weather in Florida during hurricane season becomes part of the cast of characters, lending its ominous beat to the march of events.

The setting of impending worldwide financial collapse, torn from today’s headlines, coupled with a recent re-reading of Larry Burkett’s The Coming Economic Earthquake, made it difficult to read this book. However, Davis Bunn is one of my favorite authors and I have read most of what has come from his pen. And in true, Davis Bunn style, there is a totally-unexpected twist.

The prophetic dreams shared by fifteen people who live all over the world, some with great financial or political influence, powerful financial organizations and business corporations, murders, conspiracies, and the threat of global financial collapse, not to mention romance, all make Hidden in Dreams a compelling and exciting read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when the world's foremost expert on dream analysis, Dr. Elena Burroughs, thinks she is getting her life back under control after losing her position at Oxford University and the man she hoped to fall in love with, she is approached by Rachel Lamprey, the product manager of an innovative new ADHD treatment about to hit the market.

Rachel asks for Elena's help with a clinical trial participant who has had a disturbing dream foretelling a cataclysmic global financial collapse. But even more alarming is the fact that fifteen people scattered across the globe - including Elena herself - begin to experience the same repetitive, devastating dreams of economic ruin just as one bank crisis follows another, suggesting that these aren't merely dreams.

As Elena searches for answers in her professional networks, she is forced to form an unlikely alliance with one of her most vehement critics and is drawn back into the spotlight as the public face of the so-called dreamers. Elena and her collaborators must race against the clock to find the connection between the dreams and the very real events threatening a financial meltdown. It's no longer about just dreams, it's about survival.

In the latest science fiction suspense thriller, Davis Bunn takes his readers on an action-packed, tightly twisted tale of the dream world and how simultaneously people all over the world are having the very same dream with prophetic results and dire consequences in the novel, Hidden in Dreams. Having read Davis Bunn's fictional novels in the past, I was immediately drawn to this one based in part by his amazing ability to engage the reader on one path and before you know it, you wind up somewhere completely unexpected with no knowledge of how you got there. Along the journey you encounter heart-stopping, page turning action and suspense that will make you finish this book in one sitting.

I received Hidden in Dreams by Davis Bunn compliments of Howard Books, a division of Simon & Schuster for my honest review and can't wait to pick up another of his books in the future. If you are the type of person who loves, suspense, action, along with a little mystery along the way coupled with a great Christian story line, then this is the perfect novel for you. I have to warn you, once you pick up Davis' book, you'll be a fan and want more. This one rates a 5 out of 5 stars and now the wait begins for his next book, due out soon I hope.

[J.F. Elferdink · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story Synopsis:

Foretelling the future through dreams is—for nearly everyone—a compelling frame for storytelling. And we all know that not everything is as it seems, but I did not for a moment foresee the surprising twist to the prophesy of these dreamers. As Davis Bunn stated in his author note, he had to use his expertise from several careers to explain the aftermath realistically.
Davis uses the still-desperate economic conditions in the world as a backdrop to send a warning of the lengths to which greedy corporate types will go to gain more wealth and more power. Unlike so much of what has occurred during the last four years, though, the bad guys in the novel are caught and will likely be convicted, but the first priority is to stabilize global financial markets.
Less significant, but effective for a good read, is a romance with two very eligible men vying for one woman, the protagonist. It’s pretty clear early on which one she will choose; and almost too sweet that her Christian values are mirrored in the perfect guy, a widower and her mentor, whose daughter takes to her immediately as a mother-replacement.

My Evaluation: Average – 4.5 stars

 Command of language: 5 stars
Varied sentence structure; word choices that paint vivid pictures; realistic dialogue.

 Characterization: 4 stars
All the main characters were fairly well developed, although not terribly unique. The bad guys were…all bad; and the good guys rarely stepped out of character, either.

 Creativity: 5
The plot displayed an extremely creative mind. (I expected that—it’s what has made Davis Bunn one of my favorite authors—and I was not disappointed.)

 Content suitable to diverse audience(s): 4 stars
This one seems to be written almost exclusively for Christian readers. The protagonist and all those who work closely with her often pray together. The one who chooses not to is somewhat ostracized. As great as the power of prayer is and as needed in our chaotic world, I think a more subtle approach—or maybe a stronger approach showing God at work—would reach audiences who might be turned off by all the spotlight on pray-ers.

 Connection (and application) to current issues: 4.5 stars
The timing for this story is excellent; economic conditions are still fragile and exposing too many people to painful choices and harsh living conditions. My only concern is the realism of the ending.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Dr. Elena Burroughs’ life might have seemed like a dream come true. She had a book on the best-sellers list, a position at a prestigious Oxford clinic, and an Italian financier eager to romance her. But one-by-one those dreams fell through. Even her house burned down. Now her life is one long, dreary disappointment.

When corporate biochemist Rachel Lamprey unexpectedly shows up in Elena’s college classroom to beg for help, Elena senses that something is not quite right. Perhaps Rachel’s personal assistant sweeping the room for electronic bugs clues her in. Or maybe it’s that Elena has been specifically warned about Rachel’s casual ruthlessness.

However, Elena ignores her misgivings. She reasons that things couldn’t possibly get any worse.

Boy, is she wrong.

Since Elena is an expert on dream interpretation, she’s not surprised that Rachel wants her to analyze a client’s frightening dream. But two things make the assignment unusually disturbing.

One, it’s not a nightmare about monsters or ghosts that has the man so terrified. It’s an omen of an imminent financial crisis—the worst the world has seen.

And two, people all over the globe are having the exact same dream.

Because of her involvement, Elena’s life changes overnight. She’s unwillingly thrust into a group of international power players, who want in on whatever happens next. Elena is way over her head.

Oh, there are some perks. Two different men become interested in dating her. She makes friends with a young girl who would dearly love a motherly influence in her life. And she has a great idea for a new bestseller. But she’s not sure all that makes up for the close-calls, death threats, and nightmares.

As Elena’s adventure progresses, she learns important lessons about listening for God’s voice when His message seems hidden—and that there is meaning even in His silences. The end of her story was surprising but very satisfying.

“Your Teacher will no longer hide Himself, but your eyes will behold your Teacher. Your ears will hear a word behind you, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or to the left.” Isaiah 30:21

***Thanks to Howard Books for a complimentary review copy of this book.

[Sidney W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Davis Bunn's sequel to The Book of Dreams, Dr. Elena Burroughs has taken a teaching position with the Atlantic Christian University in Melbourne, Florida. Rachel, the sister of Elena's best friend Miriam who had died the previous summer asks for Elena's help. Rachel's company, SuenaMed in Orlando, is about to release a new ADHD medication for children and adults, and they are experiencing problems related to dreams. A number of those testing the medication are having the same dream about a disastrous worldwide economic downturn.

Elena talks to Reed Thompson, the president of the Atlantic Christian University, a former economic expert with connections in federal government. She also talks to Jacob Rawlings, an ardent critic of her dream theories, who has a patient who is having the dream, and who now believes Elena is correct about what she has said about foretelling dreams.

Elena has the dream. The same one the others had. Included is a strong urge to warn everyone about the pending economic downfall. Since the urge to warn people is so strong, they wonder if telling the public may stop the dreams. At the insistence of Rachel, and the support of Reed and Jacob, Elena becomes the spokesperson for the dreamers. Soon there are more dreams in which the situation worsens. Some banks begin to fail. There is a debate over whether or not the dreams could be messages from God, since, it is argued, only God can see into the future.

You will need to read the book to find out whether or not the dreams are spiritual. Luckily, that won't take you long. This fast-paced book is designed to be read in one sitting.

Though this is a sequel with references to The Book of Dreams, it stands alone and is quite enjoyable without knowledge of the information in the first book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255. The book was then donated to a church library.

Read all my reviews here: The Christian Bookmobile

[Nona King · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this installment was not as captivating from the first page as the first book, Book of Dreams, I continued reading due to my connection with the main character, Dr. Elena Burroughs. I wanted to see how the possibilities had come to fruition from the first book. To see her happy and healing. Unfortunately, or fortunately for this book, those happy possibles had not come to pass, throwing me into the immediate area of sympathy and compassion. Then, as the conflicts began to arise, and other possibilities, my interest grew.

I am uncertain what could have been done differently to inspire a stronger interest in the main plot, but I must say that the suspense in the final chapter was much more engaging than that of book 1. Sequels have such a hard act to follow, and while I don’t believe this sequel fully attained its potential, I enjoyed the romantic twist – it certainly felt more fulfilling! – and the curve ball in the latter chapters.

Davis Bunn has an engaging way with characters and descriptions, presenting both in a way that is personal without bogging down the story. I look forward to his next book for the Review table, Rare Earth, on September 14th. As in the first book, Hidden in Dreams is another story that brings the current economic crisis to a different view, stressing the importance of prayer and faith in these trying times.

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars. If I hadn’t needed to fight with my interest, this easily could have received 5 stars. But because of the mentioned “curve ball”, the extreme conflict in the final chapter, and satisfying resolve to the romance, I think it deserves the 4.5 rating.

Would I read it again? Definitely

Would I recommend it to others? Yes!

[Sara Kovach · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING! This book is soooooo good. I honestly got more than I had hoped for with this one!! When I first picked up this book for review, I did not realize that it was a second book in a series. Now, I was more than able to keep up with what was going on, but I know that I would have had an even better time reading it if I had read the first book. I also know that I will be picking up the first book, Book of Dreams, as soon as I can!!


The build up and intensity of the writing is something you rarely find! This kind of suspense is what makes reading a pleasure! Davis Bunn is a remarkable author who knows just how to grab a reader and keep them enthralled! The content of Hidden in Dreams is so complex, yet so what the reader needs in order to get the plot. I loved how Bunn intertwined the characters' Christian faith with the scientific facts, economic issues, and notion of foretelling. These elements combined to create a very compelling, almost frightening, thought-provoking tale.


If I would not read another book this summer, I know that Hidden Dreams has provided me with far more than I ever get out of most summer reads! I am going to be telling everyone about his one!!


*I received a free copy of this book from Howard Books, for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the "Dreams" series by Davis Bunn, a bestselling author. Although it contains the same main character, it can be read as a stand alone book.

Elena Burroughs is a psychologist who specializes in dream interpretation, and she becomes embroiled in a new mystery that defies logical description. Something that has a tinge of science fiction, but the fear factor makes the entire book edgy, especially given today's unstable economic climate.

Can different people have the same dream? If the dreams fuel panic and fear, can the entire economy be brought to its knees?

These questions are the start of Elena's journey to find answers. What makes her so different as a protagonist is her unshakeable Christian faith. Despite hardship, terrorizing fear and evidence to the contrary, Elena continues to believe in a loving God who will guide us if we listen. It is her steadfast faith that shines the light on the answers, waiting to be recognized.

Readers (even non-Christian readers) can learn valuable and important lessons. Focus on the good in any situation, allow space for guidance and then take action. Do not allow fear to rule your heart or you will be lost. Fear shrinks and misguides us; love expands and leads us to greater awareness.

Pick up a copy of "Hidden in Dreams" and let me know if you agree with my assessment!

[Geni J. White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden in Dreams, A novel
Davis Bunn ©2012
Howard Books
ISBN 978-1-4165-5672-5
Ppk. 235 pp. plus reading group guide

Dr. Elena Burroughs, world-renowned dream expert, is now teaching at a Florida college, a welcome respite from her past year of overwhelming difficulties. Then a late friend Miriam’s sister, Rachel arrives with a plea for Elena to help a man having dreadful dreams that may impact the launch of Rachel's project, a new medicine for ADHD.

Soon news arrives from around the world of unrelated people with a similar dream. And then Elena herself experiences the frightening nightmare. The dream warns of world financial catastrophe and Elena is engaged by Rachel's company to help people survive. Complications cascade into hers and other lives.

At the point where readers may feel convinced the entire world is doomed, Elena discovers something. I’m so excited about that part of the book I’m tempted to reveal this fascinating event. But that would spoil the story for readers.

However, know this book will keep you immersed in the suspense, the unusual events and a dangerous but satisfying ending, including some romance.

I was given this book free by Howard Books, with no restrictions on or requirements about what I wrote.

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Elena Burroughs, an authority on dream analysis, is living in Florida. In the year following the events of The Book of Dreams, she has been released from her position at Oxford, faced the end of a romantic relationship, and endured a publicity/lecture tour.

Approached by Rachel Lamprey, sister of her dearest friend, Miriam, to look into dreams suffered by dreamers across the world and that foretell economic collapse, Dr. Burroughs finds herself in the spotlight as she attempts to uncover the truth about the dreams.

This book is scary when you look at the financial situation of the world today. Bunn has written a compelling novel of what the days ahead may be like as the world economy is manipulated by men for personal gain.

If Davis Bunn has written a more timely novel in his career, I'm not sure what it would be. Powerful themes, well-developed characters and plenty of action drive this book to a satisfying conclusion while begging for a return appearance of Dr. Elena Burroughs.

I was provided an advance copy of Hidden in Dreams by the publisher in exchange for my review of the book.

[Pam Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hidden Dreams is a sequel to the book, “The Book of Dreams.” It is totally unlike any other novel I have read, and although it’s a sequel, it’s a very enjoyable stand-alone novel as well. As usual with Davis Bunn, this story is full of action, adventure and drama with a good dose of romance thrown in. This drama could have been taken right out of the daily newspaper. The twists and turns kept me turning page after page, hoping to find out what was going to happen! I found it riveting!

Even though this can be a stand-alone book, you will definitely want to read book 1 in the series, just because it’s so good. It was as hard to put down as this one. I’m very happy to recommend “Hidden in Dreams.”

I received a complimentary copy of this book for review from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read by Davis Bunn. I enjoyed his writing style and the themes were very well researched. Also, this book was very relevant considering the financial condition the world is in. Reading 'Hidden in Dreams' at this time really opened my eyes to how the countries are so dependent on the economies of each other and how technology has developed to link us all. As a Christian book, I felt this showed the very possibility of the things predicted in the Bible for a time 'when people run to and fro, and knowledge is increased'.

I didn't give this a 5 star for one reason; I felt that the characters could have been a bit more developed. I had a hard time visualizing what Elena looked like, Reed's character, etc. It seemed that there were plots that were rushed and some that weren't even completed. Ex: Hurricane?

But all that being said, I definitely will read more of Davis Bunn's books. It was a Christian thriller, mystery and a bit of romance.

[Georgann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Book 2 following Book of Dreams. When I started it, our main character, Elena, was no longer in any of the same places she was when book 1 ended, and I felt disappointed, because I really wanted her to move forward. But she did, and in a mighty way. Also, the book was not as visually mystical as book 1, and I was a little disappointed in that, but as I read, I discovered it had a beauty of language all it's own.
I was enthralled with this new story, and when it took a giant shift in the middle, I felt disappointed again. I wondered where it would go and if it would dissolve into a more "ordinary" thriller. But once again, the author more than satisfied me! Unabashedly Christian, it wasn't at all preachy, just perfectly honest about what we believe and why, and I liked that. It was a great read!

[Karen Linton · Rating 5 out of 5]

That's how I really measure a book. Will I re-read it? Is it worth buying a copy (as opposed to reading the library's only) and keeping it at home. For Hidden in Dreams, the answer is yes.

I finished the book on Monday or Tuesday, but have spent the days since digesting it. And the conclusion is, this is a must read book. I went into this book a Davis fan and that gave it a bit of an advantage, but it didn't matter. The storyline that so obviously touches on the things happening in our economy now and the possibilities of dreams.

Yes, you may borrow it from me, but you'll have to return it. And don't bend the corners!