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Dark Library #2
The Book of Dreams
Grief.
Rory had grown used to her mother’s absence, visiting her primarily in dreams while she led a human kingdom to fulfill a magical deal. With Rory’s blend of herbs, she created a tea that gives the drinker deep, lucid dreams where they can build a world of their heart’s desire. But when her mother dies, Rory struggles with the grief that follows, a grief that mingles with bitterness that cuts into the soft places of her heart.
Betrayal.
A villager is found dead, and blame falls on Rory’s dream tea. But Rory’s road to proving her innocence becomes complicated when the villager’s betrothed wants revenge, aided in secret by someone Rory trusts…
Anger.
Angered and betrayed, Rory races against time to meet with those in power who can prove her innocence and stop the madmen on her heels, navigating the growing shadows within her to keep from losing what matters most–new friends, a new love, a chance at a new life…
But she’s cursed, her mind haunted. She can’t sleep, she can’t dream, and her nightmares are becoming real.
Drift into book two of the Dark Library Series, complete with a slow burn romance and found family. But beware the moment you close your eyes…
Rory had grown used to her mother’s absence, visiting her primarily in dreams while she led a human kingdom to fulfill a magical deal. With Rory’s blend of herbs, she created a tea that gives the drinker deep, lucid dreams where they can build a world of their heart’s desire. But when her mother dies, Rory struggles with the grief that follows, a grief that mingles with bitterness that cuts into the soft places of her heart.
Betrayal.
A villager is found dead, and blame falls on Rory’s dream tea. But Rory’s road to proving her innocence becomes complicated when the villager’s betrothed wants revenge, aided in secret by someone Rory trusts…
Anger.
Angered and betrayed, Rory races against time to meet with those in power who can prove her innocence and stop the madmen on her heels, navigating the growing shadows within her to keep from losing what matters most–new friends, a new love, a chance at a new life…
But she’s cursed, her mind haunted. She can’t sleep, she can’t dream, and her nightmares are becoming real.
Drift into book two of the Dark Library Series, complete with a slow burn romance and found family. But beware the moment you close your eyes…
- GenresRetellingsFantasy
Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
2 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Reilly
5 books17 followersWhen I'm not writing, I'm playing video games. | Legend of Zelda | Dead By Daylight | FFXIV | WoW | Animal Crossing: New Horizons | Stardew Valley
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 29, 2024
Thank you to BookFunnel for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review 🩷
This was great! I quite enjoyed this one. This was my first book by Morgan Reilly and I don't think it'll be my last. I read this book as a standalone to see how it would work, and it works very well.
The writing style is beautiful, very descriptive and lyrical. The banter between the characters is fun to read about and makes the story very immersive. Some parts feel a tad bit repetitive in terminology and the way scenes flow, but it's nothing that really bothered me, just something I noticed.
Definitely give this book a go if you want to read a fantasy that feels like a very unique experience.
This was great! I quite enjoyed this one. This was my first book by Morgan Reilly and I don't think it'll be my last. I read this book as a standalone to see how it would work, and it works very well.
The writing style is beautiful, very descriptive and lyrical. The banter between the characters is fun to read about and makes the story very immersive. Some parts feel a tad bit repetitive in terminology and the way scenes flow, but it's nothing that really bothered me, just something I noticed.
Definitely give this book a go if you want to read a fantasy that feels like a very unique experience.
August 20, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I didn't know. I thought it was beautiful, not deadly." Wistfully, she added, "But moest beautiful things are."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is book 2 in The Dark Library series by Morgan Reilly. After reading the first I had to dive straight into this one! These books are interconnected standalones and taking place in the same world.
This dark sleeping beauty retelling follows Rory who is earthborn and just lost her mother. Being earthborn means she has magic and healing powers. She collects herbs and makes tea, her most famous one 'prince charming'. It helps people sleep and dream.
One day Rory is betrayed and accused of killing a fellow villager with her prince charming tea. To prove her innocence she escapes the village with the help of a handsome stranger Locke. Together they will travel to the council of Melia to seek help. Along the way they pick up Enya, another magical outcast and decide to travel together.
Somehow they keep being followed by her accusers and they keep running into them. Will the little found family ever reach the council of Melia? Who can they trust along the way? Is everyone who they say they are?
Let me know if you would read this book ❤️ and I can't wait to see what books are coming next!
@talkbookswithmeli
"I didn't know. I thought it was beautiful, not deadly." Wistfully, she added, "But moest beautiful things are."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is book 2 in The Dark Library series by Morgan Reilly. After reading the first I had to dive straight into this one! These books are interconnected standalones and taking place in the same world.
This dark sleeping beauty retelling follows Rory who is earthborn and just lost her mother. Being earthborn means she has magic and healing powers. She collects herbs and makes tea, her most famous one 'prince charming'. It helps people sleep and dream.
One day Rory is betrayed and accused of killing a fellow villager with her prince charming tea. To prove her innocence she escapes the village with the help of a handsome stranger Locke. Together they will travel to the council of Melia to seek help. Along the way they pick up Enya, another magical outcast and decide to travel together.
Somehow they keep being followed by her accusers and they keep running into them. Will the little found family ever reach the council of Melia? Who can they trust along the way? Is everyone who they say they are?
Let me know if you would read this book ❤️ and I can't wait to see what books are coming next!
@talkbookswithmeli
July 27, 2024
From the very start I became enthralled in the magic of Rory and Enya, and the companionship of Locke. The little family that was creatively woven by Reilly is unique. I have never encountered an author who has been able to draw such amazing adventures. This story is so well written, filled with magic, friendship, betrayal, love, battles, deceit, and a happily ever after that left me wanting more. I just finished book 2 and I already cannot wait for book 3. Each book (Book 1 - The Book of Water) leaves me wanting more. This is a must to add to your collection - definitely not to add to an unending TBR!
August 10, 2024
This was a wild ride. I hope we all agree, we are in love with Locke.
I never ever like female main characters. I just usually tolerate them and go for the men. Typical, lol. Now Rory, she's kind of a badass. She is the definition of independent woman. I love her attitude, her determination, her dreams, her preserverance, her courage, and her generosity. She worries more for her family, friends, even strangers than her own safety. It's commendable.
And then there's Locke baby. He didn't have to do any of he did. He changed his whole plans and life just to help out someone in need. He was there every step of the way protecting her. And his new sister Enya. That girl, shew, she is hilarious. And strong. She Went through some sh*t. I was actually laughing out loud a few times at her little jokes.
I fell in love with these characters. AND HAD SOME BURNING HATRED OF 1,000 SUNS FOR SOME OTHERS. but no spoilers. Ish. I was lucky enough to be given this book to read, and I couldn't put it down. I devoured it, loving every second.
Now my only con... it ended too quickly. The last 100 pages felt so rushed. I wanted things to go on, I wanted more. I wanted more of the love story. My only issue was the book had to end. ):
I never ever like female main characters. I just usually tolerate them and go for the men. Typical, lol. Now Rory, she's kind of a badass. She is the definition of independent woman. I love her attitude, her determination, her dreams, her preserverance, her courage, and her generosity. She worries more for her family, friends, even strangers than her own safety. It's commendable.
And then there's Locke baby. He didn't have to do any of he did. He changed his whole plans and life just to help out someone in need. He was there every step of the way protecting her. And his new sister Enya. That girl, shew, she is hilarious. And strong. She Went through some sh*t. I was actually laughing out loud a few times at her little jokes.
I fell in love with these characters. AND HAD SOME BURNING HATRED OF 1,000 SUNS FOR SOME OTHERS. but no spoilers. Ish. I was lucky enough to be given this book to read, and I couldn't put it down. I devoured it, loving every second.
Now my only con... it ended too quickly. The last 100 pages felt so rushed. I wanted things to go on, I wanted more. I wanted more of the love story. My only issue was the book had to end. ):
August 25, 2024
⭐️: 5/5 🌶️: 0/5
Title: The Book of Dreams
Author: Morgan Reilly
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒
➳ cottage-core sleeping beauty
➳ touch her and 🥀
➳ found family
➳ happily ever after
➳ swordsman bodyguard
➳ slow burn romance
The Book of Dreams is the second book in The Dark Library series. You will need to read book one before this as they are interconnected.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
The Book of Dreams is a beautiful and cozy read. This book made me laugh, cry and angry. I honestly love that about a book so I truly enjoyed reading this as much as the first book, The Book of Water.
As you immerse yourself in the journey with Rory, Locke and Enya, you’ll get to witness their friendship grow, their character development + know their background.
I honestly love the brother/sister relationship between Locke and Enya. I have laughed and giggled in multiple pages because of them. Enya is honestly my favourite character!
As for Rory’s character, she’s gentle and sweet, and my heart breaks for her but don’t be on her bad side! And the romance between Rory and Locke? The romance is very sloooow burn but it’s at the right time and o so sweet!
Overall, I’m in love with this book and the characters! The ending was a beautiful touch and it felt even more magical and cozier!
Title: The Book of Dreams
Author: Morgan Reilly
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒
➳ cottage-core sleeping beauty
➳ touch her and 🥀
➳ found family
➳ happily ever after
➳ swordsman bodyguard
➳ slow burn romance
The Book of Dreams is the second book in The Dark Library series. You will need to read book one before this as they are interconnected.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
The Book of Dreams is a beautiful and cozy read. This book made me laugh, cry and angry. I honestly love that about a book so I truly enjoyed reading this as much as the first book, The Book of Water.
As you immerse yourself in the journey with Rory, Locke and Enya, you’ll get to witness their friendship grow, their character development + know their background.
I honestly love the brother/sister relationship between Locke and Enya. I have laughed and giggled in multiple pages because of them. Enya is honestly my favourite character!
As for Rory’s character, she’s gentle and sweet, and my heart breaks for her but don’t be on her bad side! And the romance between Rory and Locke? The romance is very sloooow burn but it’s at the right time and o so sweet!
Overall, I’m in love with this book and the characters! The ending was a beautiful touch and it felt even more magical and cozier!
September 7, 2024
Overall reading: 4 / 5
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotions: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
Patient/Healer
Bodyguard
Slow Burn
Touch her and
Found Family
Magically Powerful FMC
Dean Winchester-inspired MMC
*received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
This book was actually really sweet in a way that was not expected. I loved how we immediately jumped into the story, the world-building happened as we read along instead of everything being shoved at you in the three pages, so that made it easier to enjoy the flow and the build-up. The flow of the story was nice and simple which made it easier to understand as well.
We get to follow the life of Rory as she tries to prove her innocence. Along the way, she meets two characters who join her journey and they all grow to love each other and they make their own little family. The relationships that we get to see are absolutely amazing and full of love. They complete each other in their own ways, and surprisingly, it became super emotional and educational. We get a glimpse into some mental health issues, overcome past traumas, learn to trust, and learn to allow ourselves to hope for a better future.
I loved the FMC! I always get nervous with them - if you read all of my reviews, I always seem to have a bone to pick them, I promise that I’m not a hater - but Rory was actually really special to me. She literally was backed into a small corner and she didn’t know how to figure things out. I especially loved that she didn’t simply depend on her father, someone who was in high standing, to fix all of her problems. Watching her grow more confident in herself and learning to lean on others was so special for me.
This is the second book in the series, and while it does have a small spoiler about the first book, you don’t necessarily need to read the first boo. I recommend both. this one does end in a HEA!
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotions: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
Patient/Healer
Bodyguard
Slow Burn
Touch her and
Found Family
Magically Powerful FMC
Dean Winchester-inspired MMC
*received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
This book was actually really sweet in a way that was not expected. I loved how we immediately jumped into the story, the world-building happened as we read along instead of everything being shoved at you in the three pages, so that made it easier to enjoy the flow and the build-up. The flow of the story was nice and simple which made it easier to understand as well.
We get to follow the life of Rory as she tries to prove her innocence. Along the way, she meets two characters who join her journey and they all grow to love each other and they make their own little family. The relationships that we get to see are absolutely amazing and full of love. They complete each other in their own ways, and surprisingly, it became super emotional and educational. We get a glimpse into some mental health issues, overcome past traumas, learn to trust, and learn to allow ourselves to hope for a better future.
I loved the FMC! I always get nervous with them - if you read all of my reviews, I always seem to have a bone to pick them, I promise that I’m not a hater - but Rory was actually really special to me. She literally was backed into a small corner and she didn’t know how to figure things out. I especially loved that she didn’t simply depend on her father, someone who was in high standing, to fix all of her problems. Watching her grow more confident in herself and learning to lean on others was so special for me.
This is the second book in the series, and while it does have a small spoiler about the first book, you don’t necessarily need to read the first boo. I recommend both. this one does end in a HEA!
August 25, 2024
Wow, "The Book of Dreams" completely swept me away from the very first chapter! Morgan Reilly has crafted a story that’s equal parts enchanting and heart-wrenching. Rory, our main character, is dealing with the weight of grief, betrayal, and anger, all while trying to clear her name after being falsely accused of murder. Her journey is intense, emotional, and full of unexpected twists that had me glued to the pages.
The slow-burn romance between Rory and Locke is just perfect—sweet, subtle, and so rewarding. Add in Enya’s sass and joy, and you’ve got a found family dynamic that brings warmth to the darker aspects of the story. The whole concept of dream tea and the magic tied to it is unique and fascinating, and it’s woven into the plot so seamlessly. The twist near the end? Totally got me in the feels.
If you’re into fantasy with deep emotional stakes, rich world-building, and characters you can’t help but root for, "The Book of Dreams" is a must-read. I’m already excited to see where Morgan Reilly takes us next in this series!
The slow-burn romance between Rory and Locke is just perfect—sweet, subtle, and so rewarding. Add in Enya’s sass and joy, and you’ve got a found family dynamic that brings warmth to the darker aspects of the story. The whole concept of dream tea and the magic tied to it is unique and fascinating, and it’s woven into the plot so seamlessly. The twist near the end? Totally got me in the feels.
If you’re into fantasy with deep emotional stakes, rich world-building, and characters you can’t help but root for, "The Book of Dreams" is a must-read. I’m already excited to see where Morgan Reilly takes us next in this series!
August 11, 2024
This book hooked me from the first chapter! I read the previous book in the series but this can be read without it. I loved Rory. She was such a strong character who had to go through so much to find her peace. Locke and Enya were amazing characters and each added to the feeling of family. Enya was sassy and spread joy. Locke was more reserved and is the quintessential hunky protector. Rory, Enya, and Locke had quite the journey together. They each had personal struggles to overcome and together they had to escape thugs throughout their travels. The healing and dreaming aspects were unique and I wanted to know more. The plot twist got me right in the feels. The romance was perfectly sweet and the ending was enjoyable. Even though my heart was broken in some parts, the ending was sweet enough to mend it. I highly recommend giving this book a shot.
September 19, 2024
This one had potential but missed the mark for me. The characters felt underdeveloped—Rory was kind of bland, and Locke’s brooding didn’t really land. Enya, though, was a standout and I wish we had more of her! The worldbuilding had some interesting ideas, but the magic system was confusing and not well explained. The plot? Well, it was a lot of running around for no real reason, with a rushed and somewhat pointless twist at the end.
If you're into soft magic systems and fast-paced fantasy, you might enjoy it more, but for me, the disjointed writing and lack of stakes made it a bit frustrating.
Full review on my blog: https://ezzasyuhada.com/
If you're into soft magic systems and fast-paced fantasy, you might enjoy it more, but for me, the disjointed writing and lack of stakes made it a bit frustrating.
Full review on my blog: https://ezzasyuhada.com/
August 18, 2024
Morgan has such a unique and beautiful writing style! This is the first book I’ve read of hers and won’t be the last! I will definitely be going back to read the first one too. (I read this one as a standalone and it worked for me still!)
I really enjoyed this book. Rory was such a strong fun character and Locke was a definite fave! And I did like Enya as well! 🥰
The banter between the characters was so fun and it kept me wanting more of their stories!
Such a fun and unique fantasy with romance! 😍 will definitely be reading book 1 asap and keeping up with the series!
I really enjoyed this book. Rory was such a strong fun character and Locke was a definite fave! And I did like Enya as well! 🥰
The banter between the characters was so fun and it kept me wanting more of their stories!
Such a fun and unique fantasy with romance! 😍 will definitely be reading book 1 asap and keeping up with the series!
November 14, 2024
Rory is Earthborn, a magical woman who loves herbs. When she learns of her mother's death, she finds comfort in her father and a friend. A false accusation has her running away with a swordsman at her side. A lucky chance has them running into a spunky girl in need of help and the three become family. But all have secrets. And secrets have a way of catching up with you.
A gripping story full of heart and fun. Made me cry at the end. An amazing book!
A gripping story full of heart and fun. Made me cry at the end. An amazing book!
February 11, 2025
A beautifully twisted Sleeping Beauty retelling.
The world-building? Stunning. The storyline? Addictive. The slow-burn romance and found family? Chef’s kiss. If you love dark fairytales with high stakes and hauntingly beautiful prose, this one’s for you. Just… maybe don’t sip any mysterious tea while reading. 🍵✨
Blog | Linktree | Bookstagram
The world-building? Stunning. The storyline? Addictive. The slow-burn romance and found family? Chef’s kiss. If you love dark fairytales with high stakes and hauntingly beautiful prose, this one’s for you. Just… maybe don’t sip any mysterious tea while reading. 🍵✨
Blog | Linktree | Bookstagram
August 20, 2024
Reilly has a knack for pulling me in with her worldbuilding and characters. Rory has to be one of my all-time favorite FMCs, and Locke is the love of my life. Enya has a my whole heart, and I will never be the same after meeting her.
This is a strong dark retelling of Sleeping Beauty. I thoroughly enjoyed it. What a great read.
This is a strong dark retelling of Sleeping Beauty. I thoroughly enjoyed it. What a great read.
August 21, 2024
I've been looking forward to reading this book because I absolutely love fairytale retellings, and The Book of Dreams did not disappoint. All I had to do was read the summary, and I was immediately hooked. When it comes to the story of Sleeping Beauty, Morgan Reilly thinks outside the box, and her take on Sleeping Beauty is truly unique. I literally couldn't put this book down, and it kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.
August 26, 2024
The Book of Dreams is an enjoyable found family and slow burn romantasy novel that highlights grief, betrayal and anger while also finding trust and companionship.
Morgan Reilly sends readers on a whimsical and occasionally (mildly) dark journey. The world and character building is beautifully done, and the story is captivating, refreshing, and magical.
A true balance between dreams and reality in addition to truth and deception, this is a book I would recommend.
Morgan Reilly sends readers on a whimsical and occasionally (mildly) dark journey. The world and character building is beautifully done, and the story is captivating, refreshing, and magical.
A true balance between dreams and reality in addition to truth and deception, this is a book I would recommend.
November 20, 2025
I loved this just as much as the first, although, I may be a bit in love with Locke. He’s the best! I loved the little twists and how this is its own story while still being a bit of a retelling. Definitely recommend to a friend, especially if you enjoy a clean and cozy!
April 3, 2025
Took me some time to get into it and the ending left me with questions but overall a good read.
January 29, 2025
Loooove these books and how they’re standalone yet entirely connected!! The authors writing is also so incredibly beautiful that it’s so easy to keep flipping. There’s also fantastic banter, gorgeous atmosphere, and such sweet moments between characters!! I think this miiiiight be my fav so far but it’s hard to say.
Thank you to the author for my copy!
Thank you to the author for my copy!
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November 26, 2025DNF at 21%
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews