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Dead Girls Don't Dream
Everyone who wanders from the path in Voynich Woods is never seen again. The neighboring town, in decline after the demise of a once-thriving logging industry, is now known for its mysterious folklore and missing posters, because no one who gets lost comes back to tell the tale.
Except for Riley Walcott.
Riley knows better than to stray from the trail in the woods behind her uncle Toby's house. But her little sister Sam breaks the rules in pursuit of a local legend, so Riley chases after her and discovers a masked, knife-wielding figure and a waiting grave.
Madelyn lives deep in the forest. Subject to her mother's strict rules, she's forbidden from leaving home or using her magic--but one night, she risks everything to help a stranger who's lost in the woods.
When Riley is murdered in a strange ritual, Madelyn uses her magic to resurrect her, and their lives are immediately entwined in the gnarled history of Voynich Woods. Riley, who feels trapped in her small town but too afraid to leave, was never a believer, but now the evidence is taking root under her skin. Madelyn has the scars to prove how terrible magic can be, and longs for a life beyond her mother's grasp. Together, with the ghost of long-dead Jane, they're forced to uncover the truth about Voynich Woods and the legends within.
At once tender, violent, and thrilling, Dead Girls Don't Dream is a novel of recovery, healing, and finding your power.
Except for Riley Walcott.
Riley knows better than to stray from the trail in the woods behind her uncle Toby's house. But her little sister Sam breaks the rules in pursuit of a local legend, so Riley chases after her and discovers a masked, knife-wielding figure and a waiting grave.
Madelyn lives deep in the forest. Subject to her mother's strict rules, she's forbidden from leaving home or using her magic--but one night, she risks everything to help a stranger who's lost in the woods.
When Riley is murdered in a strange ritual, Madelyn uses her magic to resurrect her, and their lives are immediately entwined in the gnarled history of Voynich Woods. Riley, who feels trapped in her small town but too afraid to leave, was never a believer, but now the evidence is taking root under her skin. Madelyn has the scars to prove how terrible magic can be, and longs for a life beyond her mother's grasp. Together, with the ghost of long-dead Jane, they're forced to uncover the truth about Voynich Woods and the legends within.
At once tender, violent, and thrilling, Dead Girls Don't Dream is a novel of recovery, healing, and finding your power.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published November 12, 2024
32 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
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September 13, 2024Creepy forest, lesbians, murder and resurrection, awful families!
This sounds so good I'll actually read a book by a man for the second time this year. God bless.
This sounds so good I'll actually read a book by a man for the second time this year. God bless.
October 12, 2024
I was extremely torn on this book. It didn't read like a final draft. I enjoyed the writing style and character development a lot, but the story was very choppy. At times, the drawn out descriptions over shadowed the storyline, thus hindering the progression of the plot. The pace was inconsistent and it felt like I was stumbling through the book. The title, cover, and premise absolutely drew me in, but the overall execution left much to be wanted. Thank you to NetGalley for offering this title in their catalog. The opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
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If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, pen pals, traveling books, and a lot more!
November 6, 2024
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes; this in no way influences my review.
Content notes:
I loved Nino Cipri’s Finna novellas, so when I saw Dead Girls Don’t Dream I was so excited to see what they’d do with a full length novel. This absolutely did not disappoint, and was such a great examination of surviving abuse, monstrosity, and the bonds of sisters. I loved so much about this book and the characters. I also loved the way it included excerpts from the book Toby is writing and flashbacks to the time the Voynich Woods became the Voynich Woods. Most of the reveals I was able to figure out based on the clues, but one element was a surprise, and built so much into the interconnectedness of everything in the forest. This is dark and atmospheric, and deals with a lot of heavy topics, but I found it hard to put down and look forward to more from Nino!
Content notes:
I loved Nino Cipri’s Finna novellas, so when I saw Dead Girls Don’t Dream I was so excited to see what they’d do with a full length novel. This absolutely did not disappoint, and was such a great examination of surviving abuse, monstrosity, and the bonds of sisters. I loved so much about this book and the characters. I also loved the way it included excerpts from the book Toby is writing and flashbacks to the time the Voynich Woods became the Voynich Woods. Most of the reveals I was able to figure out based on the clues, but one element was a surprise, and built so much into the interconnectedness of everything in the forest. This is dark and atmospheric, and deals with a lot of heavy topics, but I found it hard to put down and look forward to more from Nino!
December 4, 2024
First off I would like to thank Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing me with an early advanced readers copy of Dead Girls Don’t Dream by Nino Cipri.
This is my first Cipri book and I usually don’t read YA books, but I’m glad I gave this a go. I’m also not used to reading magical-realism books and it took my imagery to the next level.
The book started off slow and it took me a while to get into it but about half way I was invested and wanted to figure out what was going on.
Riley and Sam live with their uncle Toby behind Voynich Woods. One day Sam decides to break the rules and Riley goes looking for her and everything goes south from there. Most of the book centers on what happened to Riley when she went looking for Sam in the woods. Then the story intertwines with Riley and Sam’s mother Anna’s disappearance as well. Riley befriends Madelyn and together they try to uncover the truth about Voynich Woods.
Two things in particular that I disliked were the long chapters as it was difficult to find a stopping point. I also felt confused at times and had to reread a lot of pages.
Overall, this book was enjoyable. I cried a little towards the end. I can definitely see the YA community loving this book.
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my first Cipri book and I usually don’t read YA books, but I’m glad I gave this a go. I’m also not used to reading magical-realism books and it took my imagery to the next level.
The book started off slow and it took me a while to get into it but about half way I was invested and wanted to figure out what was going on.
Riley and Sam live with their uncle Toby behind Voynich Woods. One day Sam decides to break the rules and Riley goes looking for her and everything goes south from there. Most of the book centers on what happened to Riley when she went looking for Sam in the woods. Then the story intertwines with Riley and Sam’s mother Anna’s disappearance as well. Riley befriends Madelyn and together they try to uncover the truth about Voynich Woods.
Two things in particular that I disliked were the long chapters as it was difficult to find a stopping point. I also felt confused at times and had to reread a lot of pages.
Overall, this book was enjoyable. I cried a little towards the end. I can definitely see the YA community loving this book.
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 5, 2024
Both Riley and Madelyn (as well as their trauma and how that shaped them and bent them towards each other) were such wonderful, dimensional characters. However, I think the book suffers for not showing much of their time together. They are only actually in each other’s company (on the page) for very brief snatches - and instead their connection is kind of backfilled by Madelyn and her inevitable drag into Riley’s orbit.
I also think the excerpts from Toby’s book + the sections from Lillian’s perspective genuinely don’t add much. That real estate could have been used to give more Riley/Sam time or more Riley/Madelyn time.
Where this book absolutely siiiings is in the spooky imagery, the gritty forest full of charms and superstition, and the picture of opioid-crisis dead New England town. Riley’s trauma flashback scenes were visceral pictures of life in the orbit of an addict and it hit hard every time.
{Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review}
I also think the excerpts from Toby’s book + the sections from Lillian’s perspective genuinely don’t add much. That real estate could have been used to give more Riley/Sam time or more Riley/Madelyn time.
Where this book absolutely siiiings is in the spooky imagery, the gritty forest full of charms and superstition, and the picture of opioid-crisis dead New England town. Riley’s trauma flashback scenes were visceral pictures of life in the orbit of an addict and it hit hard every time.
{Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review}
January 21, 2025
4.5 stars
What a freakishly dark YA Horror. This was way heavier than I expected but in a good way. The lore was interesting and well woven. The characters had sweet chemistry. The gore was great and the body transformations were fun. Not to mention a wild ending. Highly recommend.
What a freakishly dark YA Horror. This was way heavier than I expected but in a good way. The lore was interesting and well woven. The characters had sweet chemistry. The gore was great and the body transformations were fun. Not to mention a wild ending. Highly recommend.
February 20, 2025
Dead Girls Don't Dream is a beautiful, haunting, eerie book. Nino Cipri has a knack for writing surreal body horror scenes that unsettle the reader. The imagery is a delightful, horrifying twist on every fairytale that takes place in the woods.
The storytelling structure is truly unique. The reader gets to experience plot events mostly through Madelyn, the daughter of the Witch of the Woods, and Riley, the daughter of a young woman who disappeared years earlier. Madelyn has magic of her own. Riley is touched by the supernatural when she's resurrected from the dead. (This isn't really a spoiler, it was in the book description on Libby.)
Some pieces of the story fit together easily. Readers will identify who the Witch of the Woods is early. They may even connect some less obvious plot points as the story shifts perspectives. Some details and resolutions are harder to connect. This makes it an enjoyable read for those who like the thrill of solving a mystery.
Themes of family connection and sisterhood are woven through the events of the novel. The book also deals with hard topics like loss and watching loved ones struggle with addiction. The presence of queer characters was a pleasant surprise. (I didn't know anything about the author prior to starting the novel.)
Overall, I'd give it five stars and recommend it to anyone looking for an eerie supernatural read.
Trigger Warnings: addiction, overdose, parent death, witchcraft, body horror
The storytelling structure is truly unique. The reader gets to experience plot events mostly through Madelyn, the daughter of the Witch of the Woods, and Riley, the daughter of a young woman who disappeared years earlier. Madelyn has magic of her own. Riley is touched by the supernatural when she's resurrected from the dead. (This isn't really a spoiler, it was in the book description on Libby.)
Some pieces of the story fit together easily. Readers will identify who the Witch of the Woods is early. They may even connect some less obvious plot points as the story shifts perspectives. Some details and resolutions are harder to connect. This makes it an enjoyable read for those who like the thrill of solving a mystery.
Themes of family connection and sisterhood are woven through the events of the novel. The book also deals with hard topics like loss and watching loved ones struggle with addiction. The presence of queer characters was a pleasant surprise. (I didn't know anything about the author prior to starting the novel.)
Overall, I'd give it five stars and recommend it to anyone looking for an eerie supernatural read.
Trigger Warnings: addiction, overdose, parent death, witchcraft, body horror
February 25, 2024
I will admit I'm no longer much of a YA reader, and what I do read tends to be nostalgia reads. Despite this, this was an incredibly enjoyable read. The imagery was amazing, and as part of that, I loved that a lot of the symbolism was done using mundane trinkets. It added to the general atmosphere throughout the story.
March 24, 2024
This is a gorgeous YA horror novel, but it's got some very intense parts. Be forewarned going in about massively abusive parents (well, mostly one parent) and parental drug addiction. As others have said, this does present a wonderfully creepy forest setting, but it also shows the more realistic, impoverished side of New England (see the drug addiction, etc.). It's a book that doesn't pull any punches, but there are still moments of lightness and joy that shine through. It's also, particularly toward the end, a ravenously angry, rage-filled text, and I loved how it dealt with fury, redemption, victimization, and gaslighting. It's a complex work, for sure, and I'm going to be thinking about it all year. (That ending?!)
(I also didn't realize this was a riff on Cipri's absolutely stunning short story "Which Super Little Dead Girl Are you? Take Our Quiz and Find Out!" in Nightmare Magazine, as I'd've been even more stoked--if such a thing were possible.)
(I also didn't realize this was a riff on Cipri's absolutely stunning short story "Which Super Little Dead Girl Are you? Take Our Quiz and Find Out!" in Nightmare Magazine, as I'd've been even more stoked--if such a thing were possible.)
March 1, 2025
This was so comforting to me and for so many reasons. First, the author being trans. I will appreciate any amount of representation I can find!! Second, the reoccurring themes of being seen as human and what makes someone human. And of course just Tom's character in general. He just seems so supportive and caring I think it may kill me. This book brought me so much comfort I'm actually in love.
Want to read
April 15, 2025I started reading this book after getting hooked by the first chapter and the characters that were introduced and the backstory. Then it started to bog down a bit with some scenes that seemed drawn out, almost felt like it was heading in a Victorian gothic story way. I am setting it aside right now to try again in the future when maybe the mood strikes me for a Victorian like setting. Just needed something a bit more energetic and lively.
October 25, 2024
This was my first read of Nino Cipri’s and it will not be my last! This book was creepy but in such a beautiful way if that’s possible. This book included a lot of planet horror and haunted forests which are a favorite of mine.
Like stated this is a YA horror novel but, its such a sad story of family, love, and abuse…especially parental abuse. Also, there is alcoholism, so be warned if that’s a touchy subject for you. This book though was atmospheric and was paced wonderfully
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this arc!!
Like stated this is a YA horror novel but, its such a sad story of family, love, and abuse…especially parental abuse. Also, there is alcoholism, so be warned if that’s a touchy subject for you. This book though was atmospheric and was paced wonderfully
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this arc!!
November 21, 2024
Enjoyed the hell out of this queer YA horror. Years ago, I absolutely fell in love with Nino Cipri’s short story “Which Super Little Dead Girl™ Are You? Take Our Quiz and Find Out!” And I’m delighted to say I liked the novel which came from that short story just as much. A quick read with great characters and some lovely bits of horror.
October 23, 2024
“Stories are maps our children can follow: Here are the safe paths and the unsafe ones; here are the wonders they might lead you to, and the horrible dangers as well.”
I received an eARC of Dead Girls Don’t Dream by Nino Cipri in exchange for an honest review. Here are my thoughts.
🌳 Riley has lived near the Voynich Woods for long enough to know not to venture in to them, since those who do rarely find their way out. Madelyn has grown up within the woods, isolated from society and subject to her mother’s strict rules. When Riley ventures into the Voynich Woods to find her sister, disaster strikes and Madelyn breaks her mother’s rules to save Riley - at least for now. Will Riley and Madelyn be able to work together to find out what is haunting the woods before Riley’s borrowed time is up? 🌳
Y’all, I regret to inform you that this book was a miss for me. The cover, the description, the author, and the representation all drew me in but Dead Girls Don’t Dream just failed to deliver.
The wording and writing choices for this whole book were odd - on more than one occasion I found myself rereading a sentence multiple times and even then couldn’t figure out what was intended. Whenever this happened I was completely taken out of the story, and sometimes was so frustrated I’d set the book aside for a while.
On top of that, the lore of the woods seemed incomplete and inconsistent. Many times the old folks that hung out around town were joked about being keepers of that knowledge, but like…what knowledge? There was a whole roadside museum of curiosities where Riley spent a lot of her time, but I felt like the only thing actually mentioned being there was pictures of the original stewards/owners of the woods. I found this so frustrating, because the idea of the small family run attraction was so cool - but it wasn’t really utilized.
All of that could’ve been ignored if the characters had at least been developed, but they weren’t. Riley and Madelyn felt like shells more than people, and that made it really hard to give a damn about what was happening to them. Which, that shit was rough - I wanted to care, but I just didn’t.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream comes out on November 12th, but my recommendation is to skip it and read Finna by the same author instead.
I received an eARC of Dead Girls Don’t Dream by Nino Cipri in exchange for an honest review. Here are my thoughts.
🌳 Riley has lived near the Voynich Woods for long enough to know not to venture in to them, since those who do rarely find their way out. Madelyn has grown up within the woods, isolated from society and subject to her mother’s strict rules. When Riley ventures into the Voynich Woods to find her sister, disaster strikes and Madelyn breaks her mother’s rules to save Riley - at least for now. Will Riley and Madelyn be able to work together to find out what is haunting the woods before Riley’s borrowed time is up? 🌳
Y’all, I regret to inform you that this book was a miss for me. The cover, the description, the author, and the representation all drew me in but Dead Girls Don’t Dream just failed to deliver.
The wording and writing choices for this whole book were odd - on more than one occasion I found myself rereading a sentence multiple times and even then couldn’t figure out what was intended. Whenever this happened I was completely taken out of the story, and sometimes was so frustrated I’d set the book aside for a while.
On top of that, the lore of the woods seemed incomplete and inconsistent. Many times the old folks that hung out around town were joked about being keepers of that knowledge, but like…what knowledge? There was a whole roadside museum of curiosities where Riley spent a lot of her time, but I felt like the only thing actually mentioned being there was pictures of the original stewards/owners of the woods. I found this so frustrating, because the idea of the small family run attraction was so cool - but it wasn’t really utilized.
All of that could’ve been ignored if the characters had at least been developed, but they weren’t. Riley and Madelyn felt like shells more than people, and that made it really hard to give a damn about what was happening to them. Which, that shit was rough - I wanted to care, but I just didn’t.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream comes out on November 12th, but my recommendation is to skip it and read Finna by the same author instead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
didn-t-finish
November 13, 2024"There are rules for Voynich Woods: Always carry a whistle. Never go alone. Always come home before dark. And if anyone calls your name, don't answer. Because everyone who wanders from the path is never seen again. Except for Riley Walcott. When she's murdered one night in a strange ritual, she's brought back to life by the mysterious Madelyn who lives deep in the woods. As their lives become entwined and the legends become all too real, Riley and Madelyn must confront their deepest fears to uncover the truth about Voynich Woods."
Thank you to the author and Macmillan USA for sending me an e-arc and finished copy of this book! I ended up switching between the two since I could read the ebook while soothing my little to sleep 😅
I had a tough time with this one. There was some nice writing/prose in the first half but I also kept being unsure about what was really going on because of the hallucinatory/dreamy writing. There is a lot of body horror in this which is usually okay for me but it started getting really gross, feeling gratuitious and not adding to the overall atmosphere or plot. I could have pushed through past the 50% mark but I started finding one of the story lines triggering (mom leaves/anmbandonment + possible drug use/relapse) and I just couldn't continue.
I've seen a lot of positive reviews for this one so it may just not be for me. I do recommend looking up the trigger warnings beforehand though 💜
Thank you to the author and Macmillan USA for sending me an e-arc and finished copy of this book! I ended up switching between the two since I could read the ebook while soothing my little to sleep 😅
I had a tough time with this one. There was some nice writing/prose in the first half but I also kept being unsure about what was really going on because of the hallucinatory/dreamy writing. There is a lot of body horror in this which is usually okay for me but it started getting really gross, feeling gratuitious and not adding to the overall atmosphere or plot. I could have pushed through past the 50% mark but I started finding one of the story lines triggering (mom leaves/anmbandonment + possible drug use/relapse) and I just couldn't continue.
I've seen a lot of positive reviews for this one so it may just not be for me. I do recommend looking up the trigger warnings beforehand though 💜
Read
April 29, 2025Dead Girls Don’t Dream is a YA Horror novel I enjoyed.
{Everyone who wanders from the path in Voynich Woods is never seen again}
I really liked this book! I struggled a bit with pacing, but I grew really attached to Riley and Madelyn. I liked the way the overlapping stories and point of views connected. And I especially liked the ending Riley and Madelyn got.
While some dark things happen, I found this book more atmospheric and creepy than scary (which is always a huge plus for me).
Overall if you’re looking for some creepy YA horror novel with lesbians, I recommend you check this out!
Pub Date: November 12th, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for a copy of this eARC.
{Everyone who wanders from the path in Voynich Woods is never seen again}
I really liked this book! I struggled a bit with pacing, but I grew really attached to Riley and Madelyn. I liked the way the overlapping stories and point of views connected. And I especially liked the ending Riley and Madelyn got.
While some dark things happen, I found this book more atmospheric and creepy than scary (which is always a huge plus for me).
Overall if you’re looking for some creepy YA horror novel with lesbians, I recommend you check this out!
Pub Date: November 12th, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for a copy of this eARC.
November 9, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for a copy of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
The summary and cover really had me intrigued. I enjoyed the setting of a haunted/magical forest. But the rest felt very scatter brained. I felt like there were almost too many characters that were all so similar and I had a really hard time differentiating them throughout the book. I also struggled with this book wanting to be a YA or a thriller or a horror, I felt like it couldn’t figure itself out. I was bored mid way through and really wanted to DNF but pushed through…
The summary and cover really had me intrigued. I enjoyed the setting of a haunted/magical forest. But the rest felt very scatter brained. I felt like there were almost too many characters that were all so similar and I had a really hard time differentiating them throughout the book. I also struggled with this book wanting to be a YA or a thriller or a horror, I felt like it couldn’t figure itself out. I was bored mid way through and really wanted to DNF but pushed through…
February 24, 2025
hear me out...sequel ???
January 16, 2026
Loved the body horror
October 29, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and MacMillan Children’s for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a haunting, complex YA horror novel that examines abuse, survival, rage, and redemption. Set against a vividly creepy New England backdrop, Nino Cipri weaves a dark yet emotionally charged story that tackles difficult subjects while maintaining moments of light and love. Before going into this book, I do want to provide a content warning for abuse, specifically child abuse with the mothers of both of the main characters. If this kind of content is triggering for you, then I highly encourage you to skip reading this book; do note that even though abuse is depicted throughout the book, the overall message is about redemption and love.
At the heart of the story are two young women, Madelyn and Riley, both grappling with abusive mothers in their own devastating ways. Madelyn fights against her mother’s cruelty with a fierce determination, while Riley struggles to protect her sister Sam from their mother’s destructive influence. Their journeys toward reclaiming their power and freedom are central to the plot, and Cipri handles these emotionally fraught topics with care and sensitivity.
The book’s strength lies in its rich character development. Madelyn and Riley are complex, resilient, and relatable, making it easy to empathize with their struggles. The bond between Riley and Sam is a powerful and touching part of the story, highlighting the deep love and protective instincts that drive Riley to do whatever it takes to shield her sister from harm. Uncle Toby, who steps in as a caretaker for Riley and Sam, is another standout character, offering a glimmer of hope and stability amidst the chaos.
Cipri's depiction of the novel’s horror elements is both eerie and grounded. The forest setting adds to the unsettling atmosphere, and the novel doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction, gaslighting, and victimization. Yet, the horror isn't just in the supernatural or external forces, but in the all-too-real trauma inflicted by abusive parents and the scars they leave on their children. Cipri expertly balances these heavy themes with moments of hope, love, and even rage-filled empowerment, making it a deeply cathartic read.
That said, the pacing of “Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a bit uneven. The novel starts with a bang, pulling the reader into its fast-paced opening, but it slows down significantly towards the middle. The detailed, sometimes drawn-out descriptions of the setting and characters’ inner worlds can overshadow the storyline, occasionally causing the plot to feel disjointed. However, those who stick with the book are rewarded with a powerful, intense, and deeply emotional conclusion.
This is not just a traditional horror novel, but a story that explores the intersection of fury, trauma, and the reclamation of one’s autonomy. While there is little romantic interaction between Madelyn and Riley, those looking for a sapphic love story may be disappointed. The book focuses more on themes of survival and sisterhood than romance, making it a different kind of story than some might expect.
Overall, “Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a deeply unsettling yet ultimately hopeful story. It delivers raw emotional punches alongside its eerie horror, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read. Fans of intense, character-driven horror with strong social commentary will find a lot to appreciate in this bold and brutal story.
“Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a haunting, complex YA horror novel that examines abuse, survival, rage, and redemption. Set against a vividly creepy New England backdrop, Nino Cipri weaves a dark yet emotionally charged story that tackles difficult subjects while maintaining moments of light and love. Before going into this book, I do want to provide a content warning for abuse, specifically child abuse with the mothers of both of the main characters. If this kind of content is triggering for you, then I highly encourage you to skip reading this book; do note that even though abuse is depicted throughout the book, the overall message is about redemption and love.
At the heart of the story are two young women, Madelyn and Riley, both grappling with abusive mothers in their own devastating ways. Madelyn fights against her mother’s cruelty with a fierce determination, while Riley struggles to protect her sister Sam from their mother’s destructive influence. Their journeys toward reclaiming their power and freedom are central to the plot, and Cipri handles these emotionally fraught topics with care and sensitivity.
The book’s strength lies in its rich character development. Madelyn and Riley are complex, resilient, and relatable, making it easy to empathize with their struggles. The bond between Riley and Sam is a powerful and touching part of the story, highlighting the deep love and protective instincts that drive Riley to do whatever it takes to shield her sister from harm. Uncle Toby, who steps in as a caretaker for Riley and Sam, is another standout character, offering a glimmer of hope and stability amidst the chaos.
Cipri's depiction of the novel’s horror elements is both eerie and grounded. The forest setting adds to the unsettling atmosphere, and the novel doesn’t shy away from depicting the harsh realities of addiction, gaslighting, and victimization. Yet, the horror isn't just in the supernatural or external forces, but in the all-too-real trauma inflicted by abusive parents and the scars they leave on their children. Cipri expertly balances these heavy themes with moments of hope, love, and even rage-filled empowerment, making it a deeply cathartic read.
That said, the pacing of “Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a bit uneven. The novel starts with a bang, pulling the reader into its fast-paced opening, but it slows down significantly towards the middle. The detailed, sometimes drawn-out descriptions of the setting and characters’ inner worlds can overshadow the storyline, occasionally causing the plot to feel disjointed. However, those who stick with the book are rewarded with a powerful, intense, and deeply emotional conclusion.
This is not just a traditional horror novel, but a story that explores the intersection of fury, trauma, and the reclamation of one’s autonomy. While there is little romantic interaction between Madelyn and Riley, those looking for a sapphic love story may be disappointed. The book focuses more on themes of survival and sisterhood than romance, making it a different kind of story than some might expect.
Overall, “Dead Girls Don’t Dream” is a deeply unsettling yet ultimately hopeful story. It delivers raw emotional punches alongside its eerie horror, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read. Fans of intense, character-driven horror with strong social commentary will find a lot to appreciate in this bold and brutal story.
November 27, 2024
After getting stabbed by the fabled Wishing Tree, Riley is brought back to life by a girl named Madelyn--a timid, strange girl who is covered with scars and whose best friend is a ghost. While initially angered by Madelyn, the strange hole that has opened up in Riley's chest isn't exactly something she wants her family or the Department of Children and Family Services agents to know about. Meanwhile, Madelyn is excited that she finally has someone her age to speak to, but the knowledge of a world outside her sheltered upbringing reveals more than she might be comfortable with.
Nino Cipri is an expert at visceral language. The body horror, especially the hole within Riley's chest, is delightfully sensory. This whole book feels musty and cobwebbed, which I mean in the best way possible. Even more horrific than carapace-crusted chest cavities and tobacco-spitting game wardens is Madelyn's relationship with her mother, which could ring all too familiar for someone with a controlling mother. Though the trope is hardly a new one, it doesn't stop being effective when used well, which 'Dead Girls Don't Dream' does with aplomb. Riley's missing mother, Anne, is also a drug user suffering from addiction and relapsing over and over again. Riley is understandably frustrated with her actions, but her addiction is treated sensitively and she isn't villainized, which is good.
With that said, the plot of the book feels disconnected. The chapters switch between Riley and Madelyn's point of view, which is great for establishing them as characters, but less great for establishing their relationships with one another--especially when they don't actually spend much of the book in each other's presence. They do have a nice, tender scene together (involving a staple gun... it makes sense in context), but I can't help but feel like opportunities for them to see each other's families (not that Riley would need to meet Madelyn's mother to believe how terrible she was, but Madelyn barely had any time with Toby or Sam who would certainly make a mark on each other) or just expand Madelyn's pop culture knowledge together would help to make their relationship more realized.
'Dead Girls Don't Dream' isn't a groundbreaking novel, but it's a decent YA horror novel for someone who wants to dip their toes into the genre. It also fits pretty well with the more recent YA trend of rehabilitating Appalachia, which I find noble but perhaps not entirely successful in this case (I think it lands more on 'being stuck in a small town can be a curse but at least some good people are there' rather than a more reassuring look like 'Take All of Us' by Natalie Leif, which I reviewed earlier this year). I'm excited to read more of Cipri's horror in the future, since their biggest strength in this book is how tangible and gross (again, I mean this as a compliment) they can make simple words on a page feel.
Nino Cipri is an expert at visceral language. The body horror, especially the hole within Riley's chest, is delightfully sensory. This whole book feels musty and cobwebbed, which I mean in the best way possible. Even more horrific than carapace-crusted chest cavities and tobacco-spitting game wardens is Madelyn's relationship with her mother, which could ring all too familiar for someone with a controlling mother. Though the trope is hardly a new one, it doesn't stop being effective when used well, which 'Dead Girls Don't Dream' does with aplomb. Riley's missing mother, Anne, is also a drug user suffering from addiction and relapsing over and over again. Riley is understandably frustrated with her actions, but her addiction is treated sensitively and she isn't villainized, which is good.
With that said, the plot of the book feels disconnected. The chapters switch between Riley and Madelyn's point of view, which is great for establishing them as characters, but less great for establishing their relationships with one another--especially when they don't actually spend much of the book in each other's presence. They do have a nice, tender scene together (involving a staple gun... it makes sense in context), but I can't help but feel like opportunities for them to see each other's families (not that Riley would need to meet Madelyn's mother to believe how terrible she was, but Madelyn barely had any time with Toby or Sam who would certainly make a mark on each other) or just expand Madelyn's pop culture knowledge together would help to make their relationship more realized.
'Dead Girls Don't Dream' isn't a groundbreaking novel, but it's a decent YA horror novel for someone who wants to dip their toes into the genre. It also fits pretty well with the more recent YA trend of rehabilitating Appalachia, which I find noble but perhaps not entirely successful in this case (I think it lands more on 'being stuck in a small town can be a curse but at least some good people are there' rather than a more reassuring look like 'Take All of Us' by Natalie Leif, which I reviewed earlier this year). I'm excited to read more of Cipri's horror in the future, since their biggest strength in this book is how tangible and gross (again, I mean this as a compliment) they can make simple words on a page feel.
December 22, 2024
Actual rating 3.5-4.0 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dead Girls Don't Dream is Nino Cipri's YA debut novel, a dark, gritty fantasy set in the forested northeastern USA. Inspiration for this book stems from Cipri's own experiences with an alcoholic parent and the early 2000s opioid crisis in Vermont, as well as extensive New England folklore and cryptid tales.
High schooler Riley Walcott has led a tough life. Raised by a single mom addicted to drugs, Riley does her best to care for her sister, Sam, younger by seven years, until their kind uncle Toby gains custody of them. Toby runs the local history/folklore museum in their tiny town. When Sam goes missing in the creepy Voynich Woods, Riley of course goes after her and is drawn into a plot way bigger than anything she bargained for. It is up to her and Madelyn, a mysterious girl in the woods, to stop the villain and undo decades of damage that has poisoned the forest and caused a spate of strange disappearances from the nearby town.
Cipri pulls no punches with this book; it is not for the faint of heart, but nor would I consider it gratuitous. If there is such a thing as grimdark cottagecore, this would be it. Told from alternating perspectives, this is a novel that explores human desires and the lengths one will go to sate them, no matter the danger and the lack of systemic support. This book also comments on the failing of the lack of drug rehab support in small-town USA, where gossip runs rampant and vicious cycles seem unbreakable. Cipri's point about unhealthy coping mechanisms and interpersonal relationships is clear, as is the one about "killing with kindness." Violence and destruction is no the answer, and one's mentality is a significant part of the solution.
Cipri's interest in and commentary on folklore is also evident in the book, from obnoxious podcasters to Uncle Toby's passion project of a museum. Monsters are a way of understanding the world, but so, too, are they an identity that can be taken on, whether or not one is also a 'final girl.' I enjoyed Cipri's twist on horror tropes, as well as Cipri's take on fae-like monsters, from lampmouths to ghosts to forest nasties. Their references to Frankenstein by Mary Shelley are also a keystone for the characters and worldbuilding, as well as a nod to the classics. While the romance is very much a subplot, the building blocks are scattered effectively throughout the novel, so it did not feel unexpected. Initially, I did feel that the murder in chapter one was a bit too abrupt, but more context is provided later, which smooths things over somewhat. It would have been nice to see Sam and Toby play a bigger role in the novel, but perhaps that is part of the point. For now, I'll just be adding all of Cipri's bibliography to my TBR.
Readers who enjoy this book may also like Holly Black's Modern Faerie Tales, Silver in the Wood by Emily Tesh, Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Don't Let the Forest In by CG Drews, and Mary Downing Hahn's ghost story novels. Comics of interest include: Muted by Miranda Mundt and Stagtown by Punko.
Thank you to NetGalley and Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Dead Girls Don't Dream is Nino Cipri's YA debut novel, a dark, gritty fantasy set in the forested northeastern USA. Inspiration for this book stems from Cipri's own experiences with an alcoholic parent and the early 2000s opioid crisis in Vermont, as well as extensive New England folklore and cryptid tales.
High schooler Riley Walcott has led a tough life. Raised by a single mom addicted to drugs, Riley does her best to care for her sister, Sam, younger by seven years, until their kind uncle Toby gains custody of them. Toby runs the local history/folklore museum in their tiny town. When Sam goes missing in the creepy Voynich Woods, Riley of course goes after her and is drawn into a plot way bigger than anything she bargained for. It is up to her and Madelyn, a mysterious girl in the woods, to stop the villain and undo decades of damage that has poisoned the forest and caused a spate of strange disappearances from the nearby town.
Cipri pulls no punches with this book; it is not for the faint of heart, but nor would I consider it gratuitous. If there is such a thing as grimdark cottagecore, this would be it. Told from alternating perspectives, this is a novel that explores human desires and the lengths one will go to sate them, no matter the danger and the lack of systemic support. This book also comments on the failing of the lack of drug rehab support in small-town USA, where gossip runs rampant and vicious cycles seem unbreakable. Cipri's point about unhealthy coping mechanisms and interpersonal relationships is clear, as is the one about "killing with kindness." Violence and destruction is no the answer, and one's mentality is a significant part of the solution.
Cipri's interest in and commentary on folklore is also evident in the book, from obnoxious podcasters to Uncle Toby's passion project of a museum. Monsters are a way of understanding the world, but so, too, are they an identity that can be taken on, whether or not one is also a 'final girl.' I enjoyed Cipri's twist on horror tropes, as well as Cipri's take on fae-like monsters, from lampmouths to ghosts to forest nasties. Their references to Frankenstein by Mary Shelley are also a keystone for the characters and worldbuilding, as well as a nod to the classics. While the romance is very much a subplot, the building blocks are scattered effectively throughout the novel, so it did not feel unexpected. Initially, I did feel that the murder in chapter one was a bit too abrupt, but more context is provided later, which smooths things over somewhat. It would have been nice to see Sam and Toby play a bigger role in the novel, but perhaps that is part of the point. For now, I'll just be adding all of Cipri's bibliography to my TBR.
Readers who enjoy this book may also like Holly Black's Modern Faerie Tales, Silver in the Wood by Emily Tesh, Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Don't Let the Forest In by CG Drews, and Mary Downing Hahn's ghost story novels. Comics of interest include: Muted by Miranda Mundt and Stagtown by Punko.
January 3, 2025
I found this wasn't really the book for me, but I can easily see how it would be for other people. It's not quite the horror niche that I like, so along with some semi-significant craft issues it's just not what I was after. Those craft issues being...
From a structural standpoint, I don't really understand what purpose the excerpts from Toby's book serve. If they're meant to be stand-ins for a Toby POV, more should have been done to highlight his personal thoughts and feelings. If they're meant primarily as background information, then I would argue they should have just been omitted altogether, leaving that information to be revealed through our two main protagonists.
Similarly,
I do think that the overarching theme about reclaiming your life in spite of trauma was beautifully done, and I liked that Riley and Madelyn showed different sides of that struggle. For that alone, I do think this is worth the read for those looking for a YA horror novel. I will say it's definitely more graphic than I was expecting, so keep that in mind! Specifically, there's a lot of body horror. It feels very Neil Gaiman-esk, if that helps your decision in any way.
From a structural standpoint, I don't really understand what purpose the excerpts from Toby's book serve. If they're meant to be stand-ins for a Toby POV, more should have been done to highlight his personal thoughts and feelings. If they're meant primarily as background information, then I would argue they should have just been omitted altogether, leaving that information to be revealed through our two main protagonists.
Similarly,
I do think that the overarching theme about reclaiming your life in spite of trauma was beautifully done, and I liked that Riley and Madelyn showed different sides of that struggle. For that alone, I do think this is worth the read for those looking for a YA horror novel. I will say it's definitely more graphic than I was expecting, so keep that in mind! Specifically, there's a lot of body horror. It feels very Neil Gaiman-esk, if that helps your decision in any way.
February 8, 2025
What a creepy suspenseful book this was. This book starts off strong and ends strong. Each chapter had me hooked on what was going to happen next and how it all was going to unravel. This was told in a couple of different parts but all blended well together. I really enjoyed the dark tone behind this book and the descriptions of each scene. While this book is suitable for teenagers, it has a maturity behind it with the details throughout the whole story. I was definitely intrigued with the setting and how the curse worked.
The characters supported the story well but in this situation, the storytelling was better. Riley and Maddie were solid characters but sometimes it was hard to tell their voices apart. However, I enjoyed their progression and past. I'm glad the romance wasn't a big focus in this book because it felt like it was just there. It focused more on their friendship and the blossoming of it. I do think this book would have been better without the romance at all - sometimes it's just not needed.
Overall, Dead Girls Don't Dream by Nino Cipri was a solid horror story. I really enjoyed the imagery and the darkness this story told. The scenes held my interest and the plot of the story kept me wanting more. Riley and Maddie were solid main characters to follow but the storytelling is what took over for this one. I'm glad there wasn't a heavy focus on the romance presented but I do wish it was omitted altogether. I recommend this book for those who enjoy horror stories about curses and dark creatures that lurk in the woods.
Audio Review
I really enjoyed this audiobook. I thought the narrator did a great job telling this story and really enhancing the creepiness of this book. Sometimes it could be a little difficult to tell the difference between Maddie and Riley but overall, I would definitely recommend this book in the audio format.
The characters supported the story well but in this situation, the storytelling was better. Riley and Maddie were solid characters but sometimes it was hard to tell their voices apart. However, I enjoyed their progression and past. I'm glad the romance wasn't a big focus in this book because it felt like it was just there. It focused more on their friendship and the blossoming of it. I do think this book would have been better without the romance at all - sometimes it's just not needed.
Overall, Dead Girls Don't Dream by Nino Cipri was a solid horror story. I really enjoyed the imagery and the darkness this story told. The scenes held my interest and the plot of the story kept me wanting more. Riley and Maddie were solid main characters to follow but the storytelling is what took over for this one. I'm glad there wasn't a heavy focus on the romance presented but I do wish it was omitted altogether. I recommend this book for those who enjoy horror stories about curses and dark creatures that lurk in the woods.
Audio Review
I really enjoyed this audiobook. I thought the narrator did a great job telling this story and really enhancing the creepiness of this book. Sometimes it could be a little difficult to tell the difference between Maddie and Riley but overall, I would definitely recommend this book in the audio format.
November 12, 2024
My best advice is simply to read it. This is a book to experience for yourself. Pick it up and let it work its magic on you.
Nino Cipri might be a alchemist. Delving into loss and visceral horror, and coming through it all with connection, tenderness and healing is a gift.
It’s intense and packs a wallop. I was heart-ripped. In the best horror, I find my own darkness–and, for a time, transform it.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream gets off to a wonderful start with an engaging narrative voice.
We have a knowing teen big sister and a younger sister alive to wonder in the woods and hope about their missing mother. They live with their gentle and quirky Uncle Toby, the unofficial woods historian who runs a roadside attraction.
The book jumps instantly into conflict and action. The eeriness with flashes of humor hit just right. Throughout the novel, the suspense and creepiness build, keeping me bound to its pages.
Farther into it, I was choked up and teary-eyed. That doesn't happen often.
Every part of this novel works. The pacing is on point, and the supernatural elements feel innate and authentic.
I loved the main characters and related to their struggles. Plus, it was refreshing to see a non-stereotypical gay man.
The lore and relationship dynamics are fantastic. There’s a symphony of emotional notes here. Some of it is wrenching. All of it is true.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream ranks high in my top-ten 2024 releases. It's a 5-star read.
If you read horror or LGBT+ fiction--and if you don't, today's a good day to start–take a look at this book. You’re going to want to keep reading.
Bravo and thank you, MacMillan Children's Publishing Group, for the eARC via NetGalley for consideration. These are solely my own opinions.
Nino Cipri might be a alchemist. Delving into loss and visceral horror, and coming through it all with connection, tenderness and healing is a gift.
It’s intense and packs a wallop. I was heart-ripped. In the best horror, I find my own darkness–and, for a time, transform it.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream gets off to a wonderful start with an engaging narrative voice.
We have a knowing teen big sister and a younger sister alive to wonder in the woods and hope about their missing mother. They live with their gentle and quirky Uncle Toby, the unofficial woods historian who runs a roadside attraction.
The book jumps instantly into conflict and action. The eeriness with flashes of humor hit just right. Throughout the novel, the suspense and creepiness build, keeping me bound to its pages.
Farther into it, I was choked up and teary-eyed. That doesn't happen often.
Every part of this novel works. The pacing is on point, and the supernatural elements feel innate and authentic.
I loved the main characters and related to their struggles. Plus, it was refreshing to see a non-stereotypical gay man.
The lore and relationship dynamics are fantastic. There’s a symphony of emotional notes here. Some of it is wrenching. All of it is true.
Dead Girls Don’t Dream ranks high in my top-ten 2024 releases. It's a 5-star read.
If you read horror or LGBT+ fiction--and if you don't, today's a good day to start–take a look at this book. You’re going to want to keep reading.
Bravo and thank you, MacMillan Children's Publishing Group, for the eARC via NetGalley for consideration. These are solely my own opinions.
December 16, 2024
They always say, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but let’s be honest—we’ve all done it. And sometimes, your gut just knows. That’s exactly how I felt picking this one up, and I’m happy to report: my instincts were spot on.
This story follows Riley, a teenage girl living with her younger sister, Sam, and their lore-obsessed uncle. Together, they help run his oddball unsolved mysteries museum out of a barn (yes, you read that right), which focuses on the creepy local Voynich Woods. The woods have swallowed up countless people over the decades—including, Riley suspects, their missing mother. But this isn’t just about Riley. Enter Madelyn, a girl living under the iron fist of her literal witch of a mother. Their dynamic gave me *huge* *Carrie* vibes—tense, twisted, and full of simmering rebellion.
When Sam, frustrated by a tourist’s remarks, runs into the infamous woods, Riley follows her... and doesn’t make it out. At least, not alive. Meanwhile, Madelyn begins to sense that something is deeply wrong at home and feels drawn to the woods—and Riley—in ways she can’t explain.
What I loved most was how seamlessly this felt like a retelling while still being entirely its own creation. The author balances side quests alongside the main storyline, which keeps things fresh and layered. The characters, too, are beautifully complex—no one is wholly good or wholly evil. Even the “villains” are written with nuance, and the moral grayness of it all felt real and relatable.
If you’re into Gothic YA, this is a must-read. The gloomy woods, the slow-building tension, and the unique deep, dark, and earthy romance reminded me of Together We Rot (which I adored). Dark, mysterious, and just the right amount of magical—I couldn’t put this one down.
This story follows Riley, a teenage girl living with her younger sister, Sam, and their lore-obsessed uncle. Together, they help run his oddball unsolved mysteries museum out of a barn (yes, you read that right), which focuses on the creepy local Voynich Woods. The woods have swallowed up countless people over the decades—including, Riley suspects, their missing mother. But this isn’t just about Riley. Enter Madelyn, a girl living under the iron fist of her literal witch of a mother. Their dynamic gave me *huge* *Carrie* vibes—tense, twisted, and full of simmering rebellion.
When Sam, frustrated by a tourist’s remarks, runs into the infamous woods, Riley follows her... and doesn’t make it out. At least, not alive. Meanwhile, Madelyn begins to sense that something is deeply wrong at home and feels drawn to the woods—and Riley—in ways she can’t explain.
What I loved most was how seamlessly this felt like a retelling while still being entirely its own creation. The author balances side quests alongside the main storyline, which keeps things fresh and layered. The characters, too, are beautifully complex—no one is wholly good or wholly evil. Even the “villains” are written with nuance, and the moral grayness of it all felt real and relatable.
If you’re into Gothic YA, this is a must-read. The gloomy woods, the slow-building tension, and the unique deep, dark, and earthy romance reminded me of Together We Rot (which I adored). Dark, mysterious, and just the right amount of magical—I couldn’t put this one down.
June 21, 2025
I'm going to round this up to three and a half stars. I enjoyed it but I wouldn't say that I enjoyed it immensely. I think the concept was really interesting but there was some things that just fell short for me. I would have liked to have seen more of the dynamic between Madeline and her mom, maybe played a little more on the struggling to get out from your mom's control kind of thing. someone who has likely gone through years of abuse and control like that doesn't necessarily just shrug it off without lasting effects.
I also don't think I understood the connection between Riley and Madeline romantically. besides being used as a human sacrifice, I'm not entirely certain there was a whole lot to tie them together other than the fact that Riley was the first person that Madeline saw in a long time.
I would have liked more world building as well, more fleshing out of background characters like Sam and Uncle toby. An explanation of why generous was there in the first place,, maybe some kind of origin thing, I don't know.
I have trouble with young adult novels because a lot of them seem like they don't always explain things well and you are just supposed to accept how something is without it making a lot of sense. but something has to be truly truly awful for me to give it a rating lower than three stars. this book had the foundation to be a really good novel but probably should have been longer.
I also don't think I understood the connection between Riley and Madeline romantically. besides being used as a human sacrifice, I'm not entirely certain there was a whole lot to tie them together other than the fact that Riley was the first person that Madeline saw in a long time.
I would have liked more world building as well, more fleshing out of background characters like Sam and Uncle toby. An explanation of why generous was there in the first place,, maybe some kind of origin thing, I don't know.
I have trouble with young adult novels because a lot of them seem like they don't always explain things well and you are just supposed to accept how something is without it making a lot of sense. but something has to be truly truly awful for me to give it a rating lower than three stars. this book had the foundation to be a really good novel but probably should have been longer.
October 6, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I was sucked in by this cover and the summary and I was extremely happy I got an ARC.
This was a sad and beautiful story about abuse and love. Madelyn and Riley both had abusive mothers in different ways. I felt so bad for Riley and Sam the more we learn about their mother. Uncle Toby was badass and awesome. He stepped into the role of a parent so quickly and he left college just to help his sister. That is amazing. The love he had for his sister and the love Riley had for Sam was a huge part of the plot. Riley never saw Sam as a burden and did all she could to protect her. The relationship they had was the opposite of Lillian and Camille.
Madelyn is a strong person and she was so cool in fighting her mother and her mother’s abuse. I love a story where the main character fights against their abusers. Also, there’s barely any romantic interaction between Madelyn and Riley so if you were looking for a magical sapphic story this probably won’t be it. This is mostly about taking back your freedom and learning to hardness the power inside you. And hurting those who have hurt you.
I was sucked in by this cover and the summary and I was extremely happy I got an ARC.
This was a sad and beautiful story about abuse and love. Madelyn and Riley both had abusive mothers in different ways. I felt so bad for Riley and Sam the more we learn about their mother. Uncle Toby was badass and awesome. He stepped into the role of a parent so quickly and he left college just to help his sister. That is amazing. The love he had for his sister and the love Riley had for Sam was a huge part of the plot. Riley never saw Sam as a burden and did all she could to protect her. The relationship they had was the opposite of Lillian and Camille.
Madelyn is a strong person and she was so cool in fighting her mother and her mother’s abuse. I love a story where the main character fights against their abusers. Also, there’s barely any romantic interaction between Madelyn and Riley so if you were looking for a magical sapphic story this probably won’t be it. This is mostly about taking back your freedom and learning to hardness the power inside you. And hurting those who have hurt you.
November 9, 2024
Content warnings: possession, child abuse, child abandonment, addiction, body horror, murder
Ok so the title and the cover art drew me in for this one and both do a really good job of setting the tone for this novel. Dead Girls Don't Dream is a dark YA with some heavy topics so while this isn't a scary read, it's definitely one to approach with caution.
Riley and Madelyn were interesting protagonists and I was invested in finding out how Cipri was going to wrap up the plot on this one. This is a perfect read to get you in the mood for spooky season. Voynich Woods is both fascinating and unsettling.
I do feel like the pacing was a bit off and parts of the plot dragged, but overall this was a good read and I don't think I'll have a hard time convincing teens to check this out from the library.
Jess Nahikian does a good job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Ok so the title and the cover art drew me in for this one and both do a really good job of setting the tone for this novel. Dead Girls Don't Dream is a dark YA with some heavy topics so while this isn't a scary read, it's definitely one to approach with caution.
Riley and Madelyn were interesting protagonists and I was invested in finding out how Cipri was going to wrap up the plot on this one. This is a perfect read to get you in the mood for spooky season. Voynich Woods is both fascinating and unsettling.
I do feel like the pacing was a bit off and parts of the plot dragged, but overall this was a good read and I don't think I'll have a hard time convincing teens to check this out from the library.
Jess Nahikian does a good job with the audiobook narration.
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing, and Brilliance Audio in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2025
There are lots of stories about the Voynich Woods and the people who’ve disappeared in them. Riley knows them all, and knows the rules to keep from getting taken by the Witch of the Woods. But one night, when trying to find her wandering sister, Riley finds herself murdered instead. Madelyn lives in the woods under her mother’s strict rules, but when she finds Riley’s grave, she decides to break the rules and make a change. Madelyn uses her magic to bring Riley back, but that isn’t the end of it. They want to find out who killed Riley and stop them before someone else goes missing. But the truth is more closely tied to their pasts than they realize.
This was a delightful and spooky YA horror novel about a witch in the woods and overcoming family trauma. The characters are very relatable, and the fantasy aspects are intriguing and very rooted in folk lore. I loved how it handled abusive parents and addiction, and overcoming trauma to find oneself. And the romance is very sweet too. Really enjoyed reading.
Content warning: abusive relationships, addiction.
This was a delightful and spooky YA horror novel about a witch in the woods and overcoming family trauma. The characters are very relatable, and the fantasy aspects are intriguing and very rooted in folk lore. I loved how it handled abusive parents and addiction, and overcoming trauma to find oneself. And the romance is very sweet too. Really enjoyed reading.
Content warning: abusive relationships, addiction.
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