Cursed Dreams of the Shadow

by M. L Vanasse

Baxter always had vivid dreams. Lately, they were heightened to a level that blurred the lines between dreaming and reality. It was starting to get difficult to decipher what he could see, and what others could not. Diagnosed with schizophrenia, it was drilled into him that those things that only he could see were not real. However, what if they were real? Join Baxter and his twin sister Quinn as they embark on a thrilling quest for truth, in this world or in a parallel universe of the Fae. Get ready for an adventure that will blow your mind!

312 pages, Paperback

Published December 20, 2023

Reviews

[Chantale Gingras · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so descriptive I found myself feeling like I was next to the characters in the world! I did not think I would love it but man it was good! Can’t wait for the next 2. Sneak peak at the end had me ready!

[NightRoses · Rating 3 out of 5]

actual rating: 2.5

I was lucky enough to met the wonderful author of this book and she is super sweet. I love the idea and concept behind the book, and all the details put into the world. That being said, the writing itself could use so cleaning up. It was repetitive and hard to follow and the pacing felt a bit all over the place. The big reveals didn't have the impact they were ment to. Overall, I look forward to the next book with hope and intrigue

[Julie Hamm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book throws you into the story so it is like you're standing right beside the characters. You never know what's around the next corner! I can't wait to read the next one! It could be made into a TV series . The characters are amazing and well thought out. Chapter 4 really pulled me in and I couldn't put it down after that!

[Eco Manso · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like fast-paced fantasy with twists and turns you didn’t see coming then this book is for you. I had the pleasure of meeting the author, M.L. Vanasse at the Woodstock Fair and was deeply intrigued by her story when she explained it to me. Seeing how excited and devoted she is to her book made me want to read it even more. Especially when we connected on both being Indie authors and having a similar timeframe of when we finished our books and similar struggles while writing. I finally got around to finishing the book so here is my long review :) SPOILERS AHEAD

My first impression was that everything was described very well (the scenes, the characters, the dialogue) and the scene was set perfectly in the beginning. I also liked that there were common names mixed with unique names. It made it feel very fantasy meets the real world. I could tell that a lot of time and research went into this book and as a writer myself, I know how hard that can be so props to the author for creating such an interesting world and language!. I felt the story was fast-paced and it left me wanting more. I couldn’t believe which of the characters died and how they died. I actually sat there for a while with my mouth hanging open. One second they’re there and poof now they’re gone forever. I thought that maybe they would come back somehow (especially the mom because Celeste mentioned having something that could bring people back from the brink of death) but they didn’t! Details from the beginning of the story were brought back around near the end in a wonderful way and I have to say, I liked the scene that explained Theo’s backstory. He was such an interesting character right from the beginning so I loved learning more about him. Like I said before, I wished there was more. I wish some scenes were longer or more drawn out so I could feel more immersed in the universe but either way it was a great story and seeing the little excerpt from the next book got me excited. It seems like it will be a more Quinn focused book which will be cool! Overall, a great book from a great Indie author and I can’t wait to see what comes next. P.S. the cover is so beautiful! Rest In Peace Chloe and Connor <3

[Lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

**No Spoilers**
I had the pleasure of meeting Ms Vanesse and her friend at a county fair. We all chatted for a long time, and I was led to the book by her friend when I told him my interests. The Paranormal. The book sparked my interest and did not think twice about buying it.
I will say that its about a character named Baxter who has such vivid dreams as it is on the cusp of dreaming and reality.
His diagnosis of Schizophrenia doesn't convince him.
He and his sister embark on an eerie quest to find out if the shadow beings are real.
I highly recommend this book. Interesting, edge of your seat reading.

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Cursed Dreams Of The Shadow” by M. L. Vanasse is a must read. It pulls you into a magical world, full of excitement, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. It keeps you engaged and interested. You feel like you are part of the journey along with the characters. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading the second one.

[Elixx · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I've ever read, story is so captivating, and the characters are amazingly portrayed.

[Jeremy Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read from beginning to end! The world building was really fun to get lost in, especially with the characters involved. And who doesn't love a map?? Great pick for any fantasy fan!

[MayBelle · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was so boring and confusing. Dialogue felt robotic.

[Megan Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping fantasy adventure from up and coming new author M.L .Vanasse. This book draws you in like no other. Go ahead and try to guess this ending. I dare you.