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The Oneiroi #1
Only in Her Dreams
When Lucessa Sarcona awakes from a recurring dream, she has no idea her life is about to be turned upside down. A stranger, familiar to her dreams, shows up in the flesh, and Lucessa knows she’s either crazy or experiencing something not of this world.
A war ensues between three demigod brothers. One, trained to rule Erebos, is violently replaced. One forced to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. And one is charged with the impossible task of protecting Lucessa. How is she linked to the Oneiroi? Why do two brothers seek to keep her hidden and protected? And how does another plan to use her against the two demigods who love her?
Will Lucessa’s dream man have the courage to claim her as his own or will he bow to the command of another, forsaking the one he loves?
Only in Her Dreams is a modern spin on a Greek legend--the new direction of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, moving from angels, demons, vampires, and witches and toward the realm of demigods.
A war ensues between three demigod brothers. One, trained to rule Erebos, is violently replaced. One forced to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. And one is charged with the impossible task of protecting Lucessa. How is she linked to the Oneiroi? Why do two brothers seek to keep her hidden and protected? And how does another plan to use her against the two demigods who love her?
Will Lucessa’s dream man have the courage to claim her as his own or will he bow to the command of another, forsaking the one he loves?
Only in Her Dreams is a modern spin on a Greek legend--the new direction of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, moving from angels, demons, vampires, and witches and toward the realm of demigods.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2012
7 people are currently reading
786 people want to read
About the author
Christina McKnight
63 books827 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Christina McKnight writes emotional and intricate Regency Romance with strong women and maverick heroes.
Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books...don't forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.
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Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books...don't forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.
Sign up for Christina's newsletter and receive a free book: eepurl.com/VP1rP
Follow her on Twitter: @CMcKnightWriter
Keep up to date on her releases: christinamcknight.com
Like Christina's FB Author page: ChristinaMcKnightWriter
Join her private FB group for all her latest project updates and teasers! facebook.com/groups/634786203293673/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 11, 2012
I wrote this book...and loved every minute of it!
October 18, 2012
I was a little conflicted with how to rate this book. There were parts of the story that I really liked and parts I didn’t like, which is why I decided to keep my rating middle of the road.
What I liked: I enjoyed the uniqueness of the paranormal world. Some of the dialogue was witty and made me laugh. And mostly, I’m so glad that when Lucessa found out she wasn’t a doormat. I like tough heroines and Lucessa and was definitely independent and strong.
What I didn’t like: This is mostly personal preference, but I am not a huge fan of Urban Fantasy for two reasons: One, slow developing relationships, and two, the necessity for world building.
This is a complex story to tell, the information has to be laid out so the reader understands the world the author is trying to build. This is common in a lot of Urban Fantasy, but I find those parts of the story slow. Some readers love Urban Fantasy and this won’t bother them at all. Like I said, this is just a personal preference. With that being said, I felt the same way with books like Fever. I found book one and two of Fever really tough to get through, but by the time I hit book 3 and the world building was complete I was able to settle in and enjoy the story. I tend to be more forgiving of world building in Urban Fantasy and always read the second book to see where the story goes. I do this now because of stories like Fever. I almost gave up on those books because I was impatient, and it ended up being one of my favorite series. Now I find myself telling people who struggle with book one and two to be patient and keep going.
The other thing I don’t like about Urban Fantasies is how slow the relationships develop. What can I say I like to get to the good stuff. LOL The relationship between Lucessa and Maxim develops slowly, but there are extenuation circumstances for why that happens. I did like how the author built the sexual tension between the two, I definitely felt the chemistry—I just wanted them to do it already. I hope they finally burn up the sheets in book two. Again, this is just my opinion. Many readers prefer slow developing romances.
Overall, it’s an interesting concept. I’ve never read another story about the Oneiroi, and I’ll be interested to see where the author takes us in book 2.
September 17, 2012
Imagine losing your loved ones. And years later, you lose your husband. It takes a strong heroine and some good therapy to move forward with your life.
Lucessa's therapy was going well, until the subject of her dreams steps out of her head and enters the real world, and he's sitting in the coffee shop where Lucessa works.
Good gawd! Should she tell her therapist this latest revelation? And set back all of her progress? Lucessa wonders if she's losing it, but when the stranger shows up again, at her house, she gives him a good beat down! But he's persistant and speaks some crazy need to protect her and Lucessa wonders who's really the mental case. That is until things spin out of control and she realizes maybe there is some truth to his words... and he's pretty damn hot!
Maxim's mission is to protect Lucessa from the many dangers surrounding her, but he's also determined to find and bring his brother back to safety, all while coveting the the secrets of Lucessa's family, and a few of his own. The one thing he wasn't supposed to do is the one thing he can't control. Falling in love with Lucessa.
Lives are shaken and the Gods have spoken. The battle of wills begin when evil stops at nothing to get what they came for. Can the demigods protect the good from the evil surrounding them? Secrets, lies and evil war against truth, future and love in this intriguing story, but what does the future hold for all those involved? You'll have to step into ONLY IN HER DREAMS to find out!
Lucessa's therapy was going well, until the subject of her dreams steps out of her head and enters the real world, and he's sitting in the coffee shop where Lucessa works.
Good gawd! Should she tell her therapist this latest revelation? And set back all of her progress? Lucessa wonders if she's losing it, but when the stranger shows up again, at her house, she gives him a good beat down! But he's persistant and speaks some crazy need to protect her and Lucessa wonders who's really the mental case. That is until things spin out of control and she realizes maybe there is some truth to his words... and he's pretty damn hot!
Maxim's mission is to protect Lucessa from the many dangers surrounding her, but he's also determined to find and bring his brother back to safety, all while coveting the the secrets of Lucessa's family, and a few of his own. The one thing he wasn't supposed to do is the one thing he can't control. Falling in love with Lucessa.
Lives are shaken and the Gods have spoken. The battle of wills begin when evil stops at nothing to get what they came for. Can the demigods protect the good from the evil surrounding them? Secrets, lies and evil war against truth, future and love in this intriguing story, but what does the future hold for all those involved? You'll have to step into ONLY IN HER DREAMS to find out!
December 6, 2012
Only In Her Dreams
WOW! This book was absolutely awesome! I had no clue where this was going when I started reading. The description of the book intrigued me, but did not give much of anything away, which is great. I hate when I read a book description and know before I even read it what will happen.
McKnight's characters were very well developed as was the plot. I was kept guessing until the end. Once I started to read, I couldn't put it down.
I could not imagine losing my parents at such a young age, one to death and one to dementia, and then years later having my husband die as well. Then to find out that dad is alive and a demi-God and mom doesn't really have dementia and that her mind was messed with, and oh yeah, my husband's not dead because he faked his death because he was too much of a coward to ask for a divorce. Seriously how much can a woman take! But Lucessa handles it so well. She wants an explanation from everyone and doesn't back down until she gets one.
One can't possibly ask for a better book. It's got a bit of everything...intrigue, romance, mythology, action, well-written characters, well-developed plot...so much. Only thing I don't like is that I have to wait a whole year to read the next book in the series.
WOW! This book was absolutely awesome! I had no clue where this was going when I started reading. The description of the book intrigued me, but did not give much of anything away, which is great. I hate when I read a book description and know before I even read it what will happen.
McKnight's characters were very well developed as was the plot. I was kept guessing until the end. Once I started to read, I couldn't put it down.
I could not imagine losing my parents at such a young age, one to death and one to dementia, and then years later having my husband die as well. Then to find out that dad is alive and a demi-God and mom doesn't really have dementia and that her mind was messed with, and oh yeah, my husband's not dead because he faked his death because he was too much of a coward to ask for a divorce. Seriously how much can a woman take! But Lucessa handles it so well. She wants an explanation from everyone and doesn't back down until she gets one.
One can't possibly ask for a better book. It's got a bit of everything...intrigue, romance, mythology, action, well-written characters, well-developed plot...so much. Only thing I don't like is that I have to wait a whole year to read the next book in the series.
October 15, 2012
In a nutshell Maxim is an Oneiroi and he has been protecting Lucessa for 20 years by visiting her in her dreams. Then a threat from his exiled twin brother Darius makes it imperative that Maxim get close to Lucessa in order to protect her.
My final rating on this book is 3.5 stars. What a great start to a very interesting premise. Maxim is a totally sympathetic character. Always trying to do the right thing but caught between what he is allowed to confide in Lucessa and trying to get her to trust him. I liked Lucessa's spunky attitude. They make a really cute couple.
I kept hoping that Darius would be redeemed by the end of the book but I see that I will have to wait until the next book to see that happen. Greg is a sniveling coward and I can't really see how Lucessa ever would have settled for his sorry ass in the first place, let alone grieve for him when he "died". I wasn't really sure what to make of Sandy and the ending of the book confused me a bit as to her part in everything.
Overall though a very good read and i will definitely read on to see what happens next.
My final rating on this book is 3.5 stars. What a great start to a very interesting premise. Maxim is a totally sympathetic character. Always trying to do the right thing but caught between what he is allowed to confide in Lucessa and trying to get her to trust him. I liked Lucessa's spunky attitude. They make a really cute couple.
I kept hoping that Darius would be redeemed by the end of the book but I see that I will have to wait until the next book to see that happen. Greg is a sniveling coward and I can't really see how Lucessa ever would have settled for his sorry ass in the first place, let alone grieve for him when he "died". I wasn't really sure what to make of Sandy and the ending of the book confused me a bit as to her part in everything.
Overall though a very good read and i will definitely read on to see what happens next.
November 27, 2012
3.5 Undecided on how to write a review on this one.I liked it but I wasn't crazy about it. I did like the whole Sleep God thing just ...?? More later after I think for awhile on it.
October 15, 2012
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review and must admit that I'm disappointed. As a lover of Greek mythology, I was stoked to discover a story with the little-known Oneiroi, expecting more Urban Fantasy but getting a thinly plotted Paranormal Romance instead.
Aside from three short appearances from Hera and Zeus, a few references to Morpheus ("shaper" and Greek God of dreams), and some dream traveling (as an unsatisfactory plot device), there is hardly anything otherworldly in Only In Her Dreams. The demi-gods wield guns, use unbelievable speech or modern phrases like "What the f*ck," and come off as ordinary men—if not less, with their complaining (Darius), self-deprecating (Guy), and self-doubt (Maxim)—in my opinion, anyway.
The women—Lucessa, Julie, Hera, and Marie (especially her)—are stronger than the males, as characters and people, which is refreshing. They stay more consistent, and I liked each of them.
But I could not get into this book. While I understand the need for mystery to build suspense, the withholding of facts makes connecting with the characters and their motives hard. Although everything is straightened out at the very end, the entire family history didn't feel cohesive as each part is revealed. I often found myself flipping back to check the facts when they are because they seem contradictory.
I'm not a fan of books that spoon-feed me info, but with the constant repetition of unnecessary details—which was all telling, not showing (like Maxim's relationship with Darius, as well as Maxim and Lucessa's)—on top of the constant twists that drop out of nowhere and are "convenient," giving everyone a happily ever after, the plot was flimsy and hard to discern. Even the ramifications of Darius's rule aren't given or apparent.
Only In Her Dreams has an interesting premise, but it's poorly executed. The only reason I give it two stars instead of one (other than my not wanting to be extremely harsh) is because of every scene with Marie. Those scenes and her love with Guy are wonderful.
Note: This e-book is free on Amazon.com if you're a Prime member.
Aside from three short appearances from Hera and Zeus, a few references to Morpheus ("shaper" and Greek God of dreams), and some dream traveling (as an unsatisfactory plot device), there is hardly anything otherworldly in Only In Her Dreams. The demi-gods wield guns, use unbelievable speech or modern phrases like "What the f*ck," and come off as ordinary men—if not less, with their complaining (Darius), self-deprecating (Guy), and self-doubt (Maxim)—in my opinion, anyway.
The women—Lucessa, Julie, Hera, and Marie (especially her)—are stronger than the males, as characters and people, which is refreshing. They stay more consistent, and I liked each of them.
But I could not get into this book. While I understand the need for mystery to build suspense, the withholding of facts makes connecting with the characters and their motives hard. Although everything is straightened out at the very end, the entire family history didn't feel cohesive as each part is revealed. I often found myself flipping back to check the facts when they are because they seem contradictory.
I'm not a fan of books that spoon-feed me info, but with the constant repetition of unnecessary details—which was all telling, not showing (like Maxim's relationship with Darius, as well as Maxim and Lucessa's)—on top of the constant twists that drop out of nowhere and are "convenient," giving everyone a happily ever after, the plot was flimsy and hard to discern. Even the ramifications of Darius's rule aren't given or apparent.
Only In Her Dreams has an interesting premise, but it's poorly executed. The only reason I give it two stars instead of one (other than my not wanting to be extremely harsh) is because of every scene with Marie. Those scenes and her love with Guy are wonderful.
Note: This e-book is free on Amazon.com if you're a Prime member.
October 10, 2012
This ended up not being to bad of a story, but I was about to quit reading it at about chapter 10. At that point I saw no point to the story. We had a girl who had an Oneiroi dream watcher "keeping her safe." But safe from what? What had been explained up to that point really didn't point to any danger. At least any danger that Greek gods and demigods would have any reason to be interested in her. At about chapter 11 we finally see Hera and Zeus, but frankly, other than to clue in the readers that we were dealing with ancient Greek myths (the Oneiroi aren't that commonly known), they really had no real role in the story. But, it did re-peak my interest enough to continue. Then we finally found out why anyone cared about Lucessa in the first place.
Unfortunately, "Guy" doesn't have the ring that "Morpheus" does and thinking about a sleep/dream god named "Guy" is just weird. But, I went with it. Lucessa is his (Guy's) heir because she as his daughter she is really the only descendent of Morpheus. This got cloudy, because what are Maxim and his evil twin Darius doing anyway? Obviously they had powers and shouldn't have any trouble inheriting the throne even if they weren't blood relatives. This part is murky and not well explained. Really, if you look at it past the "love story" of Guy and Marie, there is no point for anyone to be interested in Lucessa.
Then there is her creepy husband Greg. Not only do we have to drag him back into the story, but for a doctor doing basically "charity" work in Uganda, he's amazingly selfish and self-centered. Frankly, his character is completely unbelievable. You don't get to be a doctor if you can't make a decision and don't care about anyone else. Then there is his bimbo Sandy, also a doctor, but give her one night in a cold bathroom and she'll sleep with the enemy who beat her "love" almost to death. Just weird.
The romances were not very believable, the characters were weak and completely unbelievable, and there really was no purpose for the Greek gods/demi-gods etc. to have any interest in Lucessa and her problems. The premise was good, I liked the idea of including the mix of ancient myth with a modern fantasy, but it just didn't work for me.
On a positive note, it may appeal to hardcore lovers of paranormal romance. But I wouldn't recommend.
Unfortunately, "Guy" doesn't have the ring that "Morpheus" does and thinking about a sleep/dream god named "Guy" is just weird. But, I went with it. Lucessa is his (Guy's) heir because she as his daughter she is really the only descendent of Morpheus. This got cloudy, because what are Maxim and his evil twin Darius doing anyway? Obviously they had powers and shouldn't have any trouble inheriting the throne even if they weren't blood relatives. This part is murky and not well explained. Really, if you look at it past the "love story" of Guy and Marie, there is no point for anyone to be interested in Lucessa.
Then there is her creepy husband Greg. Not only do we have to drag him back into the story, but for a doctor doing basically "charity" work in Uganda, he's amazingly selfish and self-centered. Frankly, his character is completely unbelievable. You don't get to be a doctor if you can't make a decision and don't care about anyone else. Then there is his bimbo Sandy, also a doctor, but give her one night in a cold bathroom and she'll sleep with the enemy who beat her "love" almost to death. Just weird.
The romances were not very believable, the characters were weak and completely unbelievable, and there really was no purpose for the Greek gods/demi-gods etc. to have any interest in Lucessa and her problems. The premise was good, I liked the idea of including the mix of ancient myth with a modern fantasy, but it just didn't work for me.
On a positive note, it may appeal to hardcore lovers of paranormal romance. But I wouldn't recommend.
October 18, 2012
4.5 Stars
What can I say, but WOW!! The blurb is so mysterious that I had no clue as to which way the story was going to go! Only in Her Dreams is Christina McKnight’s Debut novel in the Urban Fantasy genre and in my opinion, she has written it perfectly. I was able to connect with all the characters and get completely lost in her writing.
Lucessa has lead a tough life, she lost her Father in a car accident, her mother has dementia and her husband has left to go to Uganda to intern as a doctor. She only has her work and her dog. But things are about to change - big time!
In the blurb there is no mention of the Demi-God brothers’ names. Guy is the protector of Oneiroi, Maxim is Lucessa’s protector (who she is unaware of) and Darius has been banished to earth. As they are all Demi-God’s they are drop-dead gorgeous! I mean check out the cover, dark hair, blue eyes perfectly sculpted! I want one!
Maxim is by far my favourite, not only does he have the perfect package but he is also caring, smart and thoughtful. He always puts Lucessa first and takes his Demi-God responsibilities seriously. Lucessa is very reserved as she has had so much to deal with already and takes a little while to trust Maxim. But one person (not mentioning names, because it will be a spoiler) she lets into her life too easily and he is a jerk!! I couldn’t believe that she would do it! (It was the only thing I didn’t like about the book.)
The storyline built slowly and the further I read the more intense it became. (I was so consumed I may have neglected the kids a little!!) We meet a lot of characters including some of the God’s from Greek Mythology. I loved the mix of humans, Demi-Gods and Gods (oh, and a Dog) in this novel, they all work together well. There’s a perfect balance with the good and bad guys with plenty of plotting against each other. Christine McKnight has created a fabulous new world for me to get addicted to, but now I have to wait a whole year for the next book!! Argh!!
What can I say, but WOW!! The blurb is so mysterious that I had no clue as to which way the story was going to go! Only in Her Dreams is Christina McKnight’s Debut novel in the Urban Fantasy genre and in my opinion, she has written it perfectly. I was able to connect with all the characters and get completely lost in her writing.
Lucessa has lead a tough life, she lost her Father in a car accident, her mother has dementia and her husband has left to go to Uganda to intern as a doctor. She only has her work and her dog. But things are about to change - big time!
In the blurb there is no mention of the Demi-God brothers’ names. Guy is the protector of Oneiroi, Maxim is Lucessa’s protector (who she is unaware of) and Darius has been banished to earth. As they are all Demi-God’s they are drop-dead gorgeous! I mean check out the cover, dark hair, blue eyes perfectly sculpted! I want one!
Maxim is by far my favourite, not only does he have the perfect package but he is also caring, smart and thoughtful. He always puts Lucessa first and takes his Demi-God responsibilities seriously. Lucessa is very reserved as she has had so much to deal with already and takes a little while to trust Maxim. But one person (not mentioning names, because it will be a spoiler) she lets into her life too easily and he is a jerk!! I couldn’t believe that she would do it! (It was the only thing I didn’t like about the book.)
The storyline built slowly and the further I read the more intense it became. (I was so consumed I may have neglected the kids a little!!) We meet a lot of characters including some of the God’s from Greek Mythology. I loved the mix of humans, Demi-Gods and Gods (oh, and a Dog) in this novel, they all work together well. There’s a perfect balance with the good and bad guys with plenty of plotting against each other. Christine McKnight has created a fabulous new world for me to get addicted to, but now I have to wait a whole year for the next book!! Argh!!
November 16, 2012
This was a fun read from beginning to end. It is a romance with a spattering of Greek mythology integral to the story. I found myself trying to figure out what the bad guy was up to, even frequently getting it wrong as I didn't yet have enough information to fill in the puzzle.
While clearly romance, the story wasn't what I would call mommy porn, as it's come to be called. A primary theme of the novel is the relationship dynamics between the characters, which are constantly in flux as you try to figure out who wants who and who is related, which brings about its own tension. It's kind of like daytime soaps in that way, actually, now that I think about it. But in a good way. The book keeps you guessing and engaged in the lives of those in it, whether they be good guys or bad.
McKnight is great about using foreshadowing and giving out information piecemeal so as to engage the reader and entice them to read further without becoming irritating.
The main character, Lucessa, had me laughing over her attitude and snarky thoughts. Maxim had me vying for him, cheering him on and hoping things would work out. Guy and Marie left me agonizing for them as I saw how Guy beat himself up over the choices he'd had to make and how Marie struggled, breaking her daughter's heart over and over again without even realizing.
As a word of warning, I found a few grammar mistakes in the book, mostly comma usage and using present tense instead of past tense, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of the book even though I'm a perfectionist. It also didn't pull me out of the story, which I have had happen before. I have had to put a book down because of poor editing. I will not review it if it doesn't reach a certain standard. I won't even finish it. I am not very forgiving of mistakes in editing but these I could easily overlook.
Only in her Dreams, with so many twists and turns, will keep you trying to put the clues together as you yearn for the characters to make it through. Definitely a good read.
While clearly romance, the story wasn't what I would call mommy porn, as it's come to be called. A primary theme of the novel is the relationship dynamics between the characters, which are constantly in flux as you try to figure out who wants who and who is related, which brings about its own tension. It's kind of like daytime soaps in that way, actually, now that I think about it. But in a good way. The book keeps you guessing and engaged in the lives of those in it, whether they be good guys or bad.
McKnight is great about using foreshadowing and giving out information piecemeal so as to engage the reader and entice them to read further without becoming irritating.
The main character, Lucessa, had me laughing over her attitude and snarky thoughts. Maxim had me vying for him, cheering him on and hoping things would work out. Guy and Marie left me agonizing for them as I saw how Guy beat himself up over the choices he'd had to make and how Marie struggled, breaking her daughter's heart over and over again without even realizing.
As a word of warning, I found a few grammar mistakes in the book, mostly comma usage and using present tense instead of past tense, but it didn't affect my enjoyment of the book even though I'm a perfectionist. It also didn't pull me out of the story, which I have had happen before. I have had to put a book down because of poor editing. I will not review it if it doesn't reach a certain standard. I won't even finish it. I am not very forgiving of mistakes in editing but these I could easily overlook.
Only in her Dreams, with so many twists and turns, will keep you trying to put the clues together as you yearn for the characters to make it through. Definitely a good read.
October 31, 2012
This book confused me at first. It jumps back and forth so much between so many different people, I felt a little lost.
I wasn't quite sure who the good guys were, who the bad guys were and who was completely indifferent to it all.
The story starts a year earlier with the death of Lucessa's husband Greg and then jumps to the present with Lucessa seeing a man that has been in her dreams before, watching over her. And two other men, also stalking her, but for very different reasons.
One wants to hurt her, one wants to protect her and one just might be in love with her, all of them brothers.
Thankfully my confusion was quickly cleared up after a few chapters and I didn't feel so lost and was able to enjoy the rest of the story as it unfolded.
I love Greek mythology and while I love it, I have to admit that my knowledge about the Oneiroi is very limited. I only knew a handful of things about them. That they are part of the dream world and can enter into the dreams of humans as they sleep at night. Making those dreams good or bad.
So it was fun to have this retelling of a Greek myth and to learn a little more about them as well.
The three brothers, Maxim, Guy and Darius are in a battle to either save Erebos or to destroy it. New loyalties and allegiances must be made, hearts must be broken, and lives will be doomed and nothing will ever be the same again.
Lucessa was a fun character. She was a little fierce and has been through a lot in her lifetime already. She was a pretty strong character that was easy to relate to.
Maxim was great too. I couldn't help but like how sincere and loyal he was to all those he cared about while still trying to protect and watch out for everyone, even those that he shouldn't.
I think this will be a fun series, one that is very different form the usual paranormal filled with vampires and witches and weres.
I think this will be one to watch for sure.
I give this one 3.5 to 4 Stars!
I wasn't quite sure who the good guys were, who the bad guys were and who was completely indifferent to it all.
The story starts a year earlier with the death of Lucessa's husband Greg and then jumps to the present with Lucessa seeing a man that has been in her dreams before, watching over her. And two other men, also stalking her, but for very different reasons.
One wants to hurt her, one wants to protect her and one just might be in love with her, all of them brothers.
Thankfully my confusion was quickly cleared up after a few chapters and I didn't feel so lost and was able to enjoy the rest of the story as it unfolded.
I love Greek mythology and while I love it, I have to admit that my knowledge about the Oneiroi is very limited. I only knew a handful of things about them. That they are part of the dream world and can enter into the dreams of humans as they sleep at night. Making those dreams good or bad.
So it was fun to have this retelling of a Greek myth and to learn a little more about them as well.
The three brothers, Maxim, Guy and Darius are in a battle to either save Erebos or to destroy it. New loyalties and allegiances must be made, hearts must be broken, and lives will be doomed and nothing will ever be the same again.
Lucessa was a fun character. She was a little fierce and has been through a lot in her lifetime already. She was a pretty strong character that was easy to relate to.
Maxim was great too. I couldn't help but like how sincere and loyal he was to all those he cared about while still trying to protect and watch out for everyone, even those that he shouldn't.
I think this will be a fun series, one that is very different form the usual paranormal filled with vampires and witches and weres.
I think this will be one to watch for sure.
I give this one 3.5 to 4 Stars!
October 25, 2012
I'm a Sherrilyn Kenyon fan, so the idea of Oneiroi really caught my eye with this book. After reading it, however, I do have mixed feelings. That central theme of two people coming together and beating the odds because their soul mates wasn't really as strong here as in many of Kenyon's books. I just wish there was more romance between Lucessa and Maxim. I also wish his phrasing was a little less stilted. I get that he's ancient and lives in another realm, but if he's been visiting her, and others, dreams then he should know how they speak. It's hard to really connect with him because in the beginning whenever he spoke it just seemed too forced. I do really like Lucessa's character, but even she did things sometimes that just didn't seem smart to me. If she knew someone had broken into her house before Maxim, why didn't she call the cops? (I apologize if she did and I just can't remember that part). The flow of this was also strange for me. Sometimes the story moved really quickly and I couldn't wait to go on, and then others it seemed to just drown on. I did love the idea though, and the mythology that the author used. I thought the POV switch worked well, and definitely helped me see the story from different perspectives and angles I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. All in all, I would read the next book.
October 12, 2012
Maxim is a Oneroi and he lives in Erobos with his brother and leader Guy.His duty is to protect Lucessa daughter of Guy.Maxim visit her in her dreams to be sure that she's safe and happy.But now he have to live on Earth because Darius his twin knows where Lucessa is and he want to use her against of Guy his leader.He now living in the same house with Lucessa because he convinced her that she is in danger and she trust in him because she recognizes him from her dreams
He fell in love with Lucessa because she is beautiful, brave compassionate and loving and now he will do anything to protect her because she is his family and his everything
Lucessa is lovely women ,she loves to take care of his sick mother and to spend time with her even is she doesn't recognizes her.She visit her mother every week.She fell in love with Maxim because she felt safe and protected when he is around her.She loves him because he is honest loyal respectful and he will do anything and everything for her to be happy.He makes her to feel special.
It was a interesting reading.
Thanks to the author for this ebook.
He fell in love with Lucessa because she is beautiful, brave compassionate and loving and now he will do anything to protect her because she is his family and his everything
Lucessa is lovely women ,she loves to take care of his sick mother and to spend time with her even is she doesn't recognizes her.She visit her mother every week.She fell in love with Maxim because she felt safe and protected when he is around her.She loves him because he is honest loyal respectful and he will do anything and everything for her to be happy.He makes her to feel special.
It was a interesting reading.
Thanks to the author for this ebook.
January 27, 2013
I have always loved Greek mythology and thought this was a great spin on it. We get to meet new characters and see some classics like Zeus, Hera and Hades.
The Oneiroi are like dream walkers. They can visit the human plane and enter into the dreams of mortals. Lucessa has had a dream visitor for a long time. He is always there watching out for her while she relives memories of when her father and mother were both around.
It isnt until one day when she sees him in person that she started to wonder if she is going crazy or he is real and not a figmant of her imagination and something odd is going on.
This is where the story really starts moving. We find out about her father and his role in what is going on and we find out more about her mystious dream visitor and his twin bother and role in what has happened and is happening to her.
There is a lot of moving, a lot of events and revelations that we follow along on and learn with Lucessa. These events along with cameo appearances by Zeus, Hera and Hades all come together to make a interesting and enjoyable story to read.
The Oneiroi are like dream walkers. They can visit the human plane and enter into the dreams of mortals. Lucessa has had a dream visitor for a long time. He is always there watching out for her while she relives memories of when her father and mother were both around.
It isnt until one day when she sees him in person that she started to wonder if she is going crazy or he is real and not a figmant of her imagination and something odd is going on.
This is where the story really starts moving. We find out about her father and his role in what is going on and we find out more about her mystious dream visitor and his twin bother and role in what has happened and is happening to her.
There is a lot of moving, a lot of events and revelations that we follow along on and learn with Lucessa. These events along with cameo appearances by Zeus, Hera and Hades all come together to make a interesting and enjoyable story to read.
September 25, 2012
Wonderful! I really can't recommend this book enough. I couldn't put it down. It's an automatic add for my re-read pile.
With Lucessa being human and Maxim a demigod, a romance between them seems doomed from the start; after all, they come from two different worlds. However, Maxim has guarded over Lucessa her entire life, and she can't help but be attracted to this familiar stranger.
Of course, what good would any book be without a great villain? Though I have to say, I actually sort of sympathized with Darius, and I'm excited that there are plans for a future book to tell his story.
A wonderful start to this series with a slightly different spin than other books I've read. I love the Greek mythology aspect to this. Great debut novel for Christina McKnight! I look forward to reading more from her, and also re-reading Only In Her Dreams, in the future!
With Lucessa being human and Maxim a demigod, a romance between them seems doomed from the start; after all, they come from two different worlds. However, Maxim has guarded over Lucessa her entire life, and she can't help but be attracted to this familiar stranger.
Of course, what good would any book be without a great villain? Though I have to say, I actually sort of sympathized with Darius, and I'm excited that there are plans for a future book to tell his story.
A wonderful start to this series with a slightly different spin than other books I've read. I love the Greek mythology aspect to this. Great debut novel for Christina McKnight! I look forward to reading more from her, and also re-reading Only In Her Dreams, in the future!
October 6, 2012
I’m a huge fan of mythology but I tend to stick with Norse and Celtic. That said, this story about Greek demi-gods opened a whole new realm for me. There are a lot of characters, and it took me a while to get my footing at the beginning but, I’m a reader who loves intricate plotting. Christina McKnight did a fantastic job of weaving a spell-binding story with multiple twists and turns, and numerous layers. The characters are well-developed with storylines and connections played out expertly over the course of the novel.
And, although Lucessa and Maxim are at the heart of the story, there are a host of secondary characters you can’t help connecting with emotionally thanks to the authors story-telling ability. I especially loved Guy and Goosey, the dog.
I can’t wait to see the next book in this promising and riveting series!
And, although Lucessa and Maxim are at the heart of the story, there are a host of secondary characters you can’t help connecting with emotionally thanks to the authors story-telling ability. I especially loved Guy and Goosey, the dog.
I can’t wait to see the next book in this promising and riveting series!
October 17, 2012
Can i read the next book like ... right now ?
Loved this book very much . Only In Her Dreams is a Paranormal Romance by Christina McKnight has lots of drama , an asshole husband , hot perfect hero and a father from Oneroi .
In first i couldn't make myself to start reading it or i just didn't have the time but when i start it i couldn't make myself to put it down , i read the whole book in one day , it's a quick fun read with lots of twists .
The end was fantastic and changed so much about the story .
Note to the author : please don't make us wait for book two .
Loved this book very much . Only In Her Dreams is a Paranormal Romance by Christina McKnight has lots of drama , an asshole husband , hot perfect hero and a father from Oneroi .
In first i couldn't make myself to start reading it or i just didn't have the time but when i start it i couldn't make myself to put it down , i read the whole book in one day , it's a quick fun read with lots of twists .
The end was fantastic and changed so much about the story .
Note to the author : please don't make us wait for book two .
January 26, 2013
I enjoyed this book!
I'm not a huge follower of mythology, so I didn't think that I was going to enjoy the book. I'm glad to say that I was wrong. I could follow the characters and easily became invested in them.
I wish there would have been a stronger ending to the book. The build up to the end was great; but it seemed like the final conflict was a bit rushed and left me wanting a stronger finish. I liked the way the book ended; but just wanted a bigger clash between all of the characters when they all came together towards the end.
I'm not a huge follower of mythology, so I didn't think that I was going to enjoy the book. I'm glad to say that I was wrong. I could follow the characters and easily became invested in them.
I wish there would have been a stronger ending to the book. The build up to the end was great; but it seemed like the final conflict was a bit rushed and left me wanting a stronger finish. I liked the way the book ended; but just wanted a bigger clash between all of the characters when they all came together towards the end.
October 13, 2012
If there were half stars this would be 4.5 stars for me.
The concept of this story is really intriguing, I love the idea of someone from your dreams suddenly appearing in real life. Im giving this one 4 stars only because I wanted more romance between Lucessa and Maxim, you feel it but it almost never got to take off. I can't wait for the second book to get more and to find out where this story leads next! Great start to a new series, definitely worth the read!
The concept of this story is really intriguing, I love the idea of someone from your dreams suddenly appearing in real life. Im giving this one 4 stars only because I wanted more romance between Lucessa and Maxim, you feel it but it almost never got to take off. I can't wait for the second book to get more and to find out where this story leads next! Great start to a new series, definitely worth the read!
April 7, 2013
I read this book practically in one sitting, since the characters and the storyline really drew me in. The world is rich and the characters all have great depth. They're almost lifelike! I especially enjoyed the budding romance between the two main characters, Lucessa and Maxim. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance novel with a touch of fantasy and mythology!
October 9, 2012
I loved this book and can't wait to read more....
This was a fast paced story with just the right amount of paramormal and romance in it. I Found myself hating to put it down and when I had too I wondered what would happen next.
This is a wonderfully written story with well rounded characters...I so hope the story is continued,I want to learn more about what happens.....Thank you
This was a fast paced story with just the right amount of paramormal and romance in it. I Found myself hating to put it down and when I had too I wondered what would happen next.
This is a wonderfully written story with well rounded characters...I so hope the story is continued,I want to learn more about what happens.....Thank you
October 18, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Yes, you knew what was going on early in the book but the author did a great job of keeping me hooked! I would recommend it to anyone and can't wait to read the other books!
January 28, 2013
4.5 can't wait till the next one
October 8, 2012
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
To see review at Confessions
Lucessa starts dreaming of this man after her husband dies .What she doesn’t know is that the man appearing in her dreams is tasked with protecting her from his twin who wants her. Then the man appears in the flesh at the coffee shop and she shocked
She gasped, her stomach clenched. It was him.
In her town.
Sitting in her coffee shop.
And he was staring straight at her.
It’s a signal of things about to come as the man is no ordinary person and he is on a mission to protect her.
Maxim and his older brother Greg are working together to protect Lucessa from Darius, Maxim’s twin, who is working for an unidentified guy. Greg is the head of the Oneiri — a dream god tasked with protecting Earth and Erebos and sends Maxim to Earth to protect Lucessa. This causes chaos as Lucessa goes running to her grief counsellor who thinks she has gone back to square one. Darius has been banished years ago with a band of renegade Oneiri and sees Lucessa as a way back to Erebos and a sure road to grasping power.
Why all this fuss on a supposedly human girl—when the brothers are demi gods— is because she is actually not human at all and is somehow related to the brothers. She is about to come face to face with one again. Maxim is forced to talk to her and not give his mission away when Darius’s henchmen break into her house and try to take her. Maxim uses the attempted kidnapping to introduce himself but her intense questioning to her savior makes problems for him because he’s under orders not to reveal himself. She’s left wondering ‘What the hell?’
She is still full of questions. He glided through the side gate.
It isn’t too much longer, though, before she discovers why Maxim is around and she becomes habituated to his frequent appearances. She has two places she regularly visits and with one being her workplace, Maxim is reduced to popping up at her coffee house. When I read this bit I was ‘what?’ but then it made sense as Maxim seems to love the coffee house atmosphere over her work environment.
She couldn’t let this become a habit, him showing up all the time. Next, he’ll be following me around the grocery store or watching through my window while I dress.’
Once again she questions him about being there and he gives the same spiel about needing to protect her from someone. The answer frustrates Lucessa and Maxim for different reasons as they forced to spend more time together again as Lucessa wants to get to the bottom of this mysterious stranger who is trailing her.
Secrets are about to be revealed that could change the course of Earth’s and Erebos’s future and reveal the secret world that Lucessa never knew of and reveal her true heritage.
This is the first book I have read featuring Greek mythology. There seem to be a movement towards this sub-genre in the adult section after the success of similar books in the YA genre. I enjoyed it on some levels and but found fault with it on others. Minor things that detract from the story is how Maxim is her uncle (for goodness sake!) and it was revealed right from the get-go. However, it’s an amusing tale filled with moments like her thinking Maxim is crazy when she is considered crazy herself by her counselor (because the counselor thinks Lucessa has made Maxim up and Lucessa coming to the conclusion they are both crazy.
Maxim would be safer in a facility—with doctors trained to help the deranged. Where will that leave me? He was the man from her dreams. She probably belonged in the padded cell next to his. What a great pair they’d make. Maybe they’d benefit from group counseling sessions and deal with both their delusions at the same time. They could swap happy pills in the general area of the hospital. Assuming, they were given permission to socialize with the general population.
Then this:
Hera reclined on a cream colored pillow. A strong finger stroked her shoulder and she gazed into the still water before them.
“It has gone too far, my lover.” She made to sit up, but the hand, caressing her a moment before, tightened on her arm. The grasp held her in place.
“I prefer to see how this plays itself out,” Zeus said.
Can it get any better? 4 couples, the mix of known and little known Greek mythology has made this book magical and I could continue for pages and pages recounting my favorite parts of this novel.
To see review at Confessions
Lucessa starts dreaming of this man after her husband dies .What she doesn’t know is that the man appearing in her dreams is tasked with protecting her from his twin who wants her. Then the man appears in the flesh at the coffee shop and she shocked
She gasped, her stomach clenched. It was him.
In her town.
Sitting in her coffee shop.
And he was staring straight at her.
It’s a signal of things about to come as the man is no ordinary person and he is on a mission to protect her.
Maxim and his older brother Greg are working together to protect Lucessa from Darius, Maxim’s twin, who is working for an unidentified guy. Greg is the head of the Oneiri — a dream god tasked with protecting Earth and Erebos and sends Maxim to Earth to protect Lucessa. This causes chaos as Lucessa goes running to her grief counsellor who thinks she has gone back to square one. Darius has been banished years ago with a band of renegade Oneiri and sees Lucessa as a way back to Erebos and a sure road to grasping power.
Why all this fuss on a supposedly human girl—when the brothers are demi gods— is because she is actually not human at all and is somehow related to the brothers. She is about to come face to face with one again. Maxim is forced to talk to her and not give his mission away when Darius’s henchmen break into her house and try to take her. Maxim uses the attempted kidnapping to introduce himself but her intense questioning to her savior makes problems for him because he’s under orders not to reveal himself. She’s left wondering ‘What the hell?’
She is still full of questions. He glided through the side gate.
It isn’t too much longer, though, before she discovers why Maxim is around and she becomes habituated to his frequent appearances. She has two places she regularly visits and with one being her workplace, Maxim is reduced to popping up at her coffee house. When I read this bit I was ‘what?’ but then it made sense as Maxim seems to love the coffee house atmosphere over her work environment.
She couldn’t let this become a habit, him showing up all the time. Next, he’ll be following me around the grocery store or watching through my window while I dress.’
Once again she questions him about being there and he gives the same spiel about needing to protect her from someone. The answer frustrates Lucessa and Maxim for different reasons as they forced to spend more time together again as Lucessa wants to get to the bottom of this mysterious stranger who is trailing her.
Secrets are about to be revealed that could change the course of Earth’s and Erebos’s future and reveal the secret world that Lucessa never knew of and reveal her true heritage.
This is the first book I have read featuring Greek mythology. There seem to be a movement towards this sub-genre in the adult section after the success of similar books in the YA genre. I enjoyed it on some levels and but found fault with it on others. Minor things that detract from the story is how Maxim is her uncle (for goodness sake!) and it was revealed right from the get-go. However, it’s an amusing tale filled with moments like her thinking Maxim is crazy when she is considered crazy herself by her counselor (because the counselor thinks Lucessa has made Maxim up and Lucessa coming to the conclusion they are both crazy.
Maxim would be safer in a facility—with doctors trained to help the deranged. Where will that leave me? He was the man from her dreams. She probably belonged in the padded cell next to his. What a great pair they’d make. Maybe they’d benefit from group counseling sessions and deal with both their delusions at the same time. They could swap happy pills in the general area of the hospital. Assuming, they were given permission to socialize with the general population.
Then this:
Hera reclined on a cream colored pillow. A strong finger stroked her shoulder and she gazed into the still water before them.
“It has gone too far, my lover.” She made to sit up, but the hand, caressing her a moment before, tightened on her arm. The grasp held her in place.
“I prefer to see how this plays itself out,” Zeus said.
Can it get any better? 4 couples, the mix of known and little known Greek mythology has made this book magical and I could continue for pages and pages recounting my favorite parts of this novel.
September 17, 2023
A Write to Review
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lucessa Sarcona's life takes a bewildering turn when a recurring dream starts to become her reality. A mysterious figure from her dreams materializes in the real world, leaving Lucessa questioning her sanity and the nature of her experiences.
As the story unfolds, a war erupts involving three demigod brothers. One of them, originally trained to rule Erebos, faces a violent usurpation of his position. Another is compelled to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. The third brother is entrusted with the daunting task of safeguarding Lucessa. It becomes apparent that she is somehow linked to the Oneiroi, but the reasons behind this connection remain shrouded in mystery. Two of the brothers are determined to keep her hidden and safe, while the third has nefarious plans to use her against the two demigods who love her.
The central question becomes whether Lucessa's dream man will summon the courage to claim her as his own, or if he will yield to the commands of another, forsaking his love for her.
Right away this book was very reminiscent of Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dream Hunter series. I found the premise intriguing but once again was disappointed with the execution. The chapters are extremely short and choppy with random bits of information thrown in places.
As far in as chapter eight, I was still wondering why Lucessa was special and why the Dark One wanted her in the first place. Random events happen and things are revealed late in the game that just make all of the other mysterious events happily fall into place.
Lucessa is a strong-willed and caring character. I did like her and her attitude towards everything, she took everything in stride and that part came off believable. Maxim on the other hand is a different story. He was watching Lucessa in her dreams for twenty-two years and on one hand he knew how to drive and some slang terms like ‘the guy was six feet under’ yet in other instances it was more than apparent he was not a part of the world and didn’t know what was going on around him. Also, on one hand, he seemed to know everything about her and then in the next moment, it switches to Maxim not knowing her at all. The bonding relationship between Lucessa and Maxim did not ring true and their connection seemed fake.
There were also parts thrown in that were really random. The Greek Gods just happen to make an appearance for less than a page during chapter eleven. They seemed disconnected from the story but in actuality, they were what caused everything in the first place.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lucessa Sarcona's life takes a bewildering turn when a recurring dream starts to become her reality. A mysterious figure from her dreams materializes in the real world, leaving Lucessa questioning her sanity and the nature of her experiences.
As the story unfolds, a war erupts involving three demigod brothers. One of them, originally trained to rule Erebos, faces a violent usurpation of his position. Another is compelled to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. The third brother is entrusted with the daunting task of safeguarding Lucessa. It becomes apparent that she is somehow linked to the Oneiroi, but the reasons behind this connection remain shrouded in mystery. Two of the brothers are determined to keep her hidden and safe, while the third has nefarious plans to use her against the two demigods who love her.
The central question becomes whether Lucessa's dream man will summon the courage to claim her as his own, or if he will yield to the commands of another, forsaking his love for her.
Right away this book was very reminiscent of Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dream Hunter series. I found the premise intriguing but once again was disappointed with the execution. The chapters are extremely short and choppy with random bits of information thrown in places.
As far in as chapter eight, I was still wondering why Lucessa was special and why the Dark One wanted her in the first place. Random events happen and things are revealed late in the game that just make all of the other mysterious events happily fall into place.
Lucessa is a strong-willed and caring character. I did like her and her attitude towards everything, she took everything in stride and that part came off believable. Maxim on the other hand is a different story. He was watching Lucessa in her dreams for twenty-two years and on one hand he knew how to drive and some slang terms like ‘the guy was six feet under’ yet in other instances it was more than apparent he was not a part of the world and didn’t know what was going on around him. Also, on one hand, he seemed to know everything about her and then in the next moment, it switches to Maxim not knowing her at all. The bonding relationship between Lucessa and Maxim did not ring true and their connection seemed fake.
There were also parts thrown in that were really random. The Greek Gods just happen to make an appearance for less than a page during chapter eleven. They seemed disconnected from the story but in actuality, they were what caused everything in the first place.
November 28, 2012
3.5 stars
Okay, I've finally succumbed and settled on how to rate this. It's four stars mainly because:
1. It was a fast read - I finished it in about 3 days without trying, and that's fast for me seeing as I only read a max of 2 hours a day.
2. It's so much better than the first draft I read, and that always deserves the extra 0.5 star.
Okay, on to the actual review:
Basic storyline - Lucessa has been dreaming of Maxim for well over twenty years when he hops out of her dreams and into her car (dare to say you didn't sing that) to protect her from his effed up twin. In true UF spirit, Maxim is attracted to Lucessa even if it's pretty odd since they're technically but not biologically related.
Anyway - the story in itself is fun and fast paced.
Things I liked:
- Lucessa was a pleasant surprise - she was a pretty strong heroine with a mind of her own and not a supernatural punching bag.
- The whole dream thing - interesting.
- the description was simple and too the point - didn't eat away the story.
- Darius' voice
What I wasn't crazy about:
- the romance - felt too second place. I would have liked more on it.
- Maxim - he didn't really grow on me that much.
- Greg - he felt a little too conveniently crappy as a person.
- Sandy's POV - why did we need that one? As a matter of fact, I would have cut Greg and Guy's POV as well - they didn't add a lot and took out of the mystery
- the family reunion.
Questions that I remained with:
- who the hell
- what did Zeus and Hera actually do at the end?
- what happened to Hades?
- How do Guy and Marie feel about Maxim and Lucessa being together?
- What was Hades' master plan, actually? What was he hoping to achieve?
Wow, this is pretty negative stuff. I almost feel like I should knock a star off, but what determined my rating is actually the entertainment value which was there, even if I was frustrated.
Would I recommend this book? Actually, yes, I would - it's enjoyable. Would I read the sequels? Yes, I would.
Okay, I've finally succumbed and settled on how to rate this. It's four stars mainly because:
1. It was a fast read - I finished it in about 3 days without trying, and that's fast for me seeing as I only read a max of 2 hours a day.
2. It's so much better than the first draft I read, and that always deserves the extra 0.5 star.
Okay, on to the actual review:
Basic storyline - Lucessa has been dreaming of Maxim for well over twenty years when he hops out of her dreams and into her car (dare to say you didn't sing that) to protect her from his effed up twin. In true UF spirit, Maxim is attracted to Lucessa even if it's pretty odd since they're technically but not biologically related.
Anyway - the story in itself is fun and fast paced.
Things I liked:
- Lucessa was a pleasant surprise - she was a pretty strong heroine with a mind of her own and not a supernatural punching bag.
- The whole dream thing - interesting.
- the description was simple and too the point - didn't eat away the story.
- Darius' voice
What I wasn't crazy about:
- the romance - felt too second place. I would have liked more on it.
- Maxim - he didn't really grow on me that much.
- Greg - he felt a little too conveniently crappy as a person.
- Sandy's POV - why did we need that one? As a matter of fact, I would have cut Greg and Guy's POV as well - they didn't add a lot and took out of the mystery
- the family reunion.
Questions that I remained with:
- who the hell
- what did Zeus and Hera actually do at the end?
- what happened to Hades?
- How do Guy and Marie feel about Maxim and Lucessa being together?
- What was Hades' master plan, actually? What was he hoping to achieve?
Wow, this is pretty negative stuff. I almost feel like I should knock a star off, but what determined my rating is actually the entertainment value which was there, even if I was frustrated.
Would I recommend this book? Actually, yes, I would - it's enjoyable. Would I read the sequels? Yes, I would.
December 22, 2012
This and other reviews available at
Viviana, Enchantress of Books
I liked it. The story was well written and each of the characters had their assigned roles. I kept hoping to learn more about the Erebos world and how Guy, Darious and Maxim all truly fit into that world as well as what major part does Lucessa play. Though Hera and Zeus make an appearance as well as Hades presence is assumed (he’s never identified by name), that is the extent of the Greek Mythology. I was hoping for more. The world building wasn’t one that I was wowed by. This story could easily fit into any genre, even a suspense romance as there wasn’t a whole lot of paranormal involved. I think ‘wanting more” is going to be a recurring theme in my review of “Only in Her Dreams”.
Though Lucessa is smart, independent and sassy, there times when you want to give a smack across the head and say “Really?” She fought against some things that she knew she shouldn’t and went along with others that even in “reality” would have been questioned. There could have been more to her character development throughout the story.
Maxim, our hero, was handsome, duty bound and honorable. I wanted more depth to him, though. He was definitely a tragic hero; however, I wish there was more time to have gotten to know him better. There was a lot going on and several characters were popping in and out and that took away from the opportunity to get to know him better. There were a few glimpse of humor and sweetness, but again just a glimpse.
I also wished there was more tension between Maxim and Lucessa. You knew they would end up together, BUT the journey was ‘meh’, luke warm if that. I can’t say there was passion or desire or even lust.
I was surprised on how the males in the book were not true “alpha”. They were self-deprecating, complaint a lot (almost to the point where you wanted to tell Darius “Man up and stop whining!”) and insecure. Again, not very alpha.
Ahhh the ending. It was rushed and neatly packaged. Yes there was a HEA but again it was rushed and didn’t satisfy. Was I happy there everyone got their HEA, yeah, of course, but again, the story was hand fed to the reader, some of the information shared with the reader was extremely repetitive or extremely obvious that the rush ending just doesn’t give you that sigh of …. Well satisfaction!
This is the author’s debut novel. There’s lots of potential for her to develop and hone her skills.
I was provided a copy of “Only In Her Dreams” for a honest review.
I liked it. The story was well written and each of the characters had their assigned roles. I kept hoping to learn more about the Erebos world and how Guy, Darious and Maxim all truly fit into that world as well as what major part does Lucessa play. Though Hera and Zeus make an appearance as well as Hades presence is assumed (he’s never identified by name), that is the extent of the Greek Mythology. I was hoping for more. The world building wasn’t one that I was wowed by. This story could easily fit into any genre, even a suspense romance as there wasn’t a whole lot of paranormal involved. I think ‘wanting more” is going to be a recurring theme in my review of “Only in Her Dreams”.
Though Lucessa is smart, independent and sassy, there times when you want to give a smack across the head and say “Really?” She fought against some things that she knew she shouldn’t and went along with others that even in “reality” would have been questioned. There could have been more to her character development throughout the story.
Maxim, our hero, was handsome, duty bound and honorable. I wanted more depth to him, though. He was definitely a tragic hero; however, I wish there was more time to have gotten to know him better. There was a lot going on and several characters were popping in and out and that took away from the opportunity to get to know him better. There were a few glimpse of humor and sweetness, but again just a glimpse.
I also wished there was more tension between Maxim and Lucessa. You knew they would end up together, BUT the journey was ‘meh’, luke warm if that. I can’t say there was passion or desire or even lust.
I was surprised on how the males in the book were not true “alpha”. They were self-deprecating, complaint a lot (almost to the point where you wanted to tell Darius “Man up and stop whining!”) and insecure. Again, not very alpha.
Ahhh the ending. It was rushed and neatly packaged. Yes there was a HEA but again it was rushed and didn’t satisfy. Was I happy there everyone got their HEA, yeah, of course, but again, the story was hand fed to the reader, some of the information shared with the reader was extremely repetitive or extremely obvious that the rush ending just doesn’t give you that sigh of …. Well satisfaction!
This is the author’s debut novel. There’s lots of potential for her to develop and hone her skills.
I was provided a copy of “Only In Her Dreams” for a honest review.
December 23, 2012
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book has some amazing potential, but I feel that it was executed in a bland manner. I was instantly intrigued by the idea, and I was really excited to read it. There were so many parts of it that just didn't make sense to me, or seemed so fragemented that I didn't understand the purpose.
One example of this is that in the beginning of the story, we are told that Lucessa is adopted, but Guy tells Maxim that she's half demigod. Maxim seems like a smart person, I don't understand how he didn't notice this inconsistancy.
There also just seemed to be so many things that are so coincidental that it didnt' seem realistic. I mean, I've met some pretty weak men in my past, but would a man really fake his own death to avoid asking for a divorce? I mean, I suppose that's possible, but wow. That's incredibly weak. What really amazed me is that Lucessa would even let him stay with her after he's been "dead" a year before he explained where he was and why he was there. Then Lucessa kicks out Maxim for not telling her the full truth, but HELLO?! Greg's not telling you the full truth either? It just seemed odd to me.
Thoughout all that, I could look the other way really. Of course books are going to have some unrealistic character qualities, it's fiction, that's how it works. The main problem I had really was how many points of view this book was written in. It just didn't seem necessary. Personally, I saw this as a story between three people: Lucessa, Maxim, and Darius. I can understand another person's point of view here and there, but seriously? WAY too much. The majority of the information that was being told in some of the other points of view (Zues, Herod, The chick that came with Greg who's name is evading me right now, etc) could have been told in dialogue or in narrative during someone else's point of view. Greg, I can kinda see him being necessary here and there, but not as much as he had.
Honestly? I think the whole Zues, Hera and Hades thing was completely unnecessary and fragmented from the story. The only real time it was used was Hera giving the mother the ability to go into Erabos, but if Guy was able to give her the ability to go into dreams before her memory was wiped, why couldn't he just give her the ability to be there too? Just seemed like there was extra there that just didn't really need to be there.
Even though I may sound dissatisfied, I did have fun with this book, and I really think that I'd give the second book a chance. I think that there's a great solid story here and some minor tweaks could make it amazing.
This book has some amazing potential, but I feel that it was executed in a bland manner. I was instantly intrigued by the idea, and I was really excited to read it. There were so many parts of it that just didn't make sense to me, or seemed so fragemented that I didn't understand the purpose.
One example of this is that in the beginning of the story, we are told that Lucessa is adopted, but Guy tells Maxim that she's half demigod. Maxim seems like a smart person, I don't understand how he didn't notice this inconsistancy.
There also just seemed to be so many things that are so coincidental that it didnt' seem realistic. I mean, I've met some pretty weak men in my past, but would a man really fake his own death to avoid asking for a divorce? I mean, I suppose that's possible, but wow. That's incredibly weak. What really amazed me is that Lucessa would even let him stay with her after he's been "dead" a year before he explained where he was and why he was there. Then Lucessa kicks out Maxim for not telling her the full truth, but HELLO?! Greg's not telling you the full truth either? It just seemed odd to me.
Thoughout all that, I could look the other way really. Of course books are going to have some unrealistic character qualities, it's fiction, that's how it works. The main problem I had really was how many points of view this book was written in. It just didn't seem necessary. Personally, I saw this as a story between three people: Lucessa, Maxim, and Darius. I can understand another person's point of view here and there, but seriously? WAY too much. The majority of the information that was being told in some of the other points of view (Zues, Herod, The chick that came with Greg who's name is evading me right now, etc) could have been told in dialogue or in narrative during someone else's point of view. Greg, I can kinda see him being necessary here and there, but not as much as he had.
Honestly? I think the whole Zues, Hera and Hades thing was completely unnecessary and fragmented from the story. The only real time it was used was Hera giving the mother the ability to go into Erabos, but if Guy was able to give her the ability to go into dreams before her memory was wiped, why couldn't he just give her the ability to be there too? Just seemed like there was extra there that just didn't really need to be there.
Even though I may sound dissatisfied, I did have fun with this book, and I really think that I'd give the second book a chance. I think that there's a great solid story here and some minor tweaks could make it amazing.
November 11, 2012
I was given a copy of this book to review, through the Gotta Have Beta Reads and R2R group. Thank you!
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ½
I really wasn't sure how I felt about this book at first. I was so excited to read it, because I have been a lover of Greek mythology my whole life, but I almost gave up around chapter eight. It felt like the story justo admit going anywhere. I'm so glad I stuck it out! The story picked up and everything fell into place nicely. I thought the world building was well done. Christina McKnight went into a lot if detail, but it wasn't overwhelming and didn't feel like an info dump. The characterization was great as well.
I really liked Lucessa. She has been through so much, but never let it break her. Even when her world is turned upside down again in this book, she does her best to keep it together and do what she thinks is right. It's always nice to have another book with a strong heroine! All the women in this book are strong. I just can't express how much I love that! I adored Julie and Marie, A lot of the time, they seem stronger and more sure of themselves than the men. Unfortunately, that's part of why I had to rate this 3 ½ stars. Quite a few times I felt like the men just weren't strong enough for the women. Maxim seemed to be unsure of himself so often, and Greg--well, Greg just irritated me the more I learned about him. His self-centeredness just didn't mesh with the fact that he was supposed to be a caring, compassionate doctor choosing to help people in Third World countries.
There are two other reasons I rated this the way I did. The first is that I wish there was more romance in this book. There are hints of it, and we know the main characters care about and want each other, but little is really done about it. I love a good HEA and really hope they get it in the next book! The last reason is that I had some issues with the dialogue. Smetimes it felt stilted, and not just Maxim's dialogue. I know it's really hard to write dialogue that sounds and feels like natural speaking (I can't do it!), and sometimes it fell short. Also, I know Maxim is supposed to speak more formally than humans, by virtue of where he comes from and how little real exposure he's had to the human world. But it felt a bit odd for him to throw out a modern idiom in the middle of his completely-without-contractions formal speech.
All in all, this is a very good first book in a series. I am looking forward to the next book!
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ½
I really wasn't sure how I felt about this book at first. I was so excited to read it, because I have been a lover of Greek mythology my whole life, but I almost gave up around chapter eight. It felt like the story justo admit going anywhere. I'm so glad I stuck it out! The story picked up and everything fell into place nicely. I thought the world building was well done. Christina McKnight went into a lot if detail, but it wasn't overwhelming and didn't feel like an info dump. The characterization was great as well.
I really liked Lucessa. She has been through so much, but never let it break her. Even when her world is turned upside down again in this book, she does her best to keep it together and do what she thinks is right. It's always nice to have another book with a strong heroine! All the women in this book are strong. I just can't express how much I love that! I adored Julie and Marie, A lot of the time, they seem stronger and more sure of themselves than the men. Unfortunately, that's part of why I had to rate this 3 ½ stars. Quite a few times I felt like the men just weren't strong enough for the women. Maxim seemed to be unsure of himself so often, and Greg--well, Greg just irritated me the more I learned about him. His self-centeredness just didn't mesh with the fact that he was supposed to be a caring, compassionate doctor choosing to help people in Third World countries.
There are two other reasons I rated this the way I did. The first is that I wish there was more romance in this book. There are hints of it, and we know the main characters care about and want each other, but little is really done about it. I love a good HEA and really hope they get it in the next book! The last reason is that I had some issues with the dialogue. Smetimes it felt stilted, and not just Maxim's dialogue. I know it's really hard to write dialogue that sounds and feels like natural speaking (I can't do it!), and sometimes it fell short. Also, I know Maxim is supposed to speak more formally than humans, by virtue of where he comes from and how little real exposure he's had to the human world. But it felt a bit odd for him to throw out a modern idiom in the middle of his completely-without-contractions formal speech.
All in all, this is a very good first book in a series. I am looking forward to the next book!
October 3, 2015
This was a pretty fun read. Lucessa has the perfect life. She's married to a Doctor, has a beautiful house, a decent job, she can't ask for more. Everything is well until one day she receives a call letting her know her husband has died.
She tries to move on with her life busying herself with work. She's ready to leave everything behind, including her therapist, when the man who visits her in her dreams appears in the flesh. Now, he's not just the man in her dreams but also in her reality.
She thinks she's really lost it, as in "she's crazy". Lucessa tries to ignore it, wants it to be no more than a nightmare, except it's real.
Then, there's her protector who's pretty handsome. As if that weren't enough he has an identical twin brother. The only thing separating one from the other is one is good the other one isn't. Lucessa's protector wants to do just that, protect her from all harm his brother may want to cause her. Soon, he realizes he's falling for her.
Again, readers of paranormal romance and mythology will enjoy this book.
Blurb:
When Lucessa Sarcona awakes from a recurring dream, she has no idea her life is about to be turned upside down. A stranger, familiar to her dreams, shows up in the flesh, and Lucessa knows she’s either crazy or experiencing something not of this world.
A war ensues between three demigod brothers. One, trained to rule Erebos, is violently replaced. One forced to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. And one is charged with the impossible task of protecting Lucessa. How is she linked to the Oneiroi? Why do two brothers seek to keep her hidden and protected? And how does another plan to use her against the two demigods who love her?
Will Lucessa’s dream man have the courage to claim her as his own or will he bow to the command of another, forsaking the one he loves?
Only in Her Dreams is a modern spin on a Greek legend--the new direction of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, moving from angels, demons, vampires, and witches and toward the realm of demigods.
She tries to move on with her life busying herself with work. She's ready to leave everything behind, including her therapist, when the man who visits her in her dreams appears in the flesh. Now, he's not just the man in her dreams but also in her reality.
She thinks she's really lost it, as in "she's crazy". Lucessa tries to ignore it, wants it to be no more than a nightmare, except it's real.
Then, there's her protector who's pretty handsome. As if that weren't enough he has an identical twin brother. The only thing separating one from the other is one is good the other one isn't. Lucessa's protector wants to do just that, protect her from all harm his brother may want to cause her. Soon, he realizes he's falling for her.
Again, readers of paranormal romance and mythology will enjoy this book.
Blurb:
When Lucessa Sarcona awakes from a recurring dream, she has no idea her life is about to be turned upside down. A stranger, familiar to her dreams, shows up in the flesh, and Lucessa knows she’s either crazy or experiencing something not of this world.
A war ensues between three demigod brothers. One, trained to rule Erebos, is violently replaced. One forced to return to his homeland and lead the dream-gods of the Oneiroi. And one is charged with the impossible task of protecting Lucessa. How is she linked to the Oneiroi? Why do two brothers seek to keep her hidden and protected? And how does another plan to use her against the two demigods who love her?
Will Lucessa’s dream man have the courage to claim her as his own or will he bow to the command of another, forsaking the one he loves?
Only in Her Dreams is a modern spin on a Greek legend--the new direction of Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance, moving from angels, demons, vampires, and witches and toward the realm of demigods.
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