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The Dreamer Saga #1
Fractured Dream
Have you ever wondered where fairytales go once they’re created?
It’s been eight years since Story Sparks last had a dream. Now they’re back, tormenting her as nightmares she can’t remember upon waking. The black waters of Lake Sandeen, where her Uncle Peter disappeared decades before, may hold the secret to Story’s hidden memories, or a truth she’d rather not know. On a bright summer afternoon, Story and her two best friends, Elliot and Adam, take a hike to the lake, where they dive into the cool water and never reemerge. What they find is beyond anything they’ve ever imagined could be possible, a world where dangers lurk in the form of Big Bad Wolves, living Nightmares and meddlesome witches and gods.
Now Story must remember who she really is and somehow stop two worlds from ultimate annihilation, all while trying not to be too distracted by the inexplicable pull she feels toward a certain dark-eyed traveler who seems to have secrets of his own. The fates of the worlds are counting on her.
It’s been eight years since Story Sparks last had a dream. Now they’re back, tormenting her as nightmares she can’t remember upon waking. The black waters of Lake Sandeen, where her Uncle Peter disappeared decades before, may hold the secret to Story’s hidden memories, or a truth she’d rather not know. On a bright summer afternoon, Story and her two best friends, Elliot and Adam, take a hike to the lake, where they dive into the cool water and never reemerge. What they find is beyond anything they’ve ever imagined could be possible, a world where dangers lurk in the form of Big Bad Wolves, living Nightmares and meddlesome witches and gods.
Now Story must remember who she really is and somehow stop two worlds from ultimate annihilation, all while trying not to be too distracted by the inexplicable pull she feels toward a certain dark-eyed traveler who seems to have secrets of his own. The fates of the worlds are counting on her.
410 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2014
11 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Randall
3 books94 followersAs a girl, K.M. always wished she’d suddenly come into magical powers or cross over into a Faerie circle. Although that has yet to happen, she instead lives vicariously through the characters she creates writing fantasy and paranormal. She is the author of Fractured Dream (The Dreamer Saga) and The Reaper's Daughter. When K.M. is not busy writing her next novel, she serves as a freelance editor and writer. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree in English-Lit from Nazareth College of Rochester. K.M. lives in Upstate New York’s Finger Lakes region with her husband, her extremely energetic little boy, and their crazy goldendoodle Luna (short for Lunatic). K.M. is currently busy at work on the second book in The Dreamer Saga trilogy, called Shattered World. Learn more at http://www.kmrandallauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 10, 2015
This book was so much fun.
It starts off in regular world. Story has come home from college to spend time with her mom and best childhood friend Adam. Her other best friend Elliot (who I loved) is a stylish gay man with a sixth sense who shows up when he feels that Story is in danger.
They go on a hike and end up at a lake that her mom hates. The lake sucks them into another world. They then find out that Story is the legendary Dreamer and the fairy tale world is relying on her to save both worlds.
There is a lot of world building in this book, but it is needed because it's a big part of the story.
As the adventure begins you get introduced to more frigging awesome characters..including my favorite Jess (A Red riding hood) who kicks Big Bads asses for breakfast.
The characters in this book are some of the best I think I've ever read in a re-told fairy tale.
You have:
Thumbelinas
Trolls
Fairy tales come to life (not necessarily the Disney versions)
Morgana and Guinevere..(2 lesbian characters) Morgana looks like one of my heroes!!
and so much more.
This is a thick book..and I'm sorry that I finished it. I wanted to stay in this world a little while longer.
There is some mushy love crap but it's not overdone.
If you love fairy tales..this book is just flipping awesome. If you are expecting Disney versions..you might as well go somewhere else.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It starts off in regular world. Story has come home from college to spend time with her mom and best childhood friend Adam. Her other best friend Elliot (who I loved) is a stylish gay man with a sixth sense who shows up when he feels that Story is in danger.
They go on a hike and end up at a lake that her mom hates. The lake sucks them into another world. They then find out that Story is the legendary Dreamer and the fairy tale world is relying on her to save both worlds.
There is a lot of world building in this book, but it is needed because it's a big part of the story.
As the adventure begins you get introduced to more frigging awesome characters..including my favorite Jess (A Red riding hood) who kicks Big Bads asses for breakfast.
The characters in this book are some of the best I think I've ever read in a re-told fairy tale.
You have:
Thumbelinas
Trolls
Fairy tales come to life (not necessarily the Disney versions)
Morgana and Guinevere..(2 lesbian characters) Morgana looks like one of my heroes!!
and so much more.
This is a thick book..and I'm sorry that I finished it. I wanted to stay in this world a little while longer.
There is some mushy love crap but it's not overdone.
If you love fairy tales..this book is just flipping awesome. If you are expecting Disney versions..you might as well go somewhere else.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2014
Also reviewed for Addicted2Heroines.
At the core of this story, there's a really interesting bunch of new ideas floating around. The author has a definitely has a vivid imagination, and a talent for creating worlds.
So why only 2 stars?
Well, for starters, I almost DNF'd this book...twice.
The first time around, I was only about 5% into it, and I din't think I could take hearing the main character's name, Story , anymore.
And by that, I mean that instead of saying 'she did such-n-such', or 'her thoughts drifted', or 'his friend was sad', the author used the character's proper name.
In fact, it was so annoying that I started highlighting her name on the pages in a effort to see if I was going crazy.
I wasn't.
On one page alone, Story is used 13 times!
I haven't seen any other reviews that mentioned this though, so maybe I have an uncorrected copy, and the newer version is different?
Anyway, I put it down for a few weeks, and then decided I was just going to power through this sucker.
And I have to say, the name thing stopped pretty soon after that. So, YAY!
Ok. The second time I almost DNF'd, was about 20% through, and I just couldn't take the juvenile tone of the book. Story is 20 years old, and home from college on a break.
But everything about her and her friends screams HIGH SCHOOL.
As in, somewhere between 15 and 16 years old. Which would be fine, if they were supposed to be immature. At 20 years old, they just sounded goofy.
I don't know how to properly explain it, but the characters just felt like they would have been very comfortable in a YA book.
Then there was the over-explaining.
For example, her friend, Elliott, get's all excited about meeting a goddess and says it was "Terramazing".
"Story grinned at Elliott's silly quirk. He had a way of putting two words together when he was talking fast so that he could get the sentence out faster. She knew this one meant both terrifying and amazing."
Wow. Thanks for explaining that, 'cause I sure couldn't have figured it out on my own.
?????
In fairness, the book got progressively better, until I finally was invested in the story enough to keep going...without motivating myself with promises of chocolate.
At that point, though, I mainly just wanted to know if all my guesses were correct about who certain people really were, and where certain threads of the plot were headed.
I was.
The Big Reveals were pretty easy to guess, and since I figured them out very early on, there weren't any GASP! moments for me. Boo!
I don't want to go out on a sour note, though.
So I want to say that the ideas the author came up with in this were actually pretty darn original. There's a whole mythology created about dual worlds, that mixed up gods and fairytales in a really interesting way. Some of it was pulled from recognizable tales, and some of it (Story's origin, especially) seemed wholly original.
This was evidently the first book in a series, but I'm not interested in reading the next one. At all.
However, there are lots of reviewers who loved Fractured Dream, so check out some of the other reviews, before you decide whether or not to grab this one.
Thank you, NetGalley!
At the core of this story, there's a really interesting bunch of new ideas floating around. The author has a definitely has a vivid imagination, and a talent for creating worlds.
So why only 2 stars?
Well, for starters, I almost DNF'd this book...twice.
The first time around, I was only about 5% into it, and I din't think I could take hearing the main character's name, Story , anymore.
And by that, I mean that instead of saying 'she did such-n-such', or 'her thoughts drifted', or 'his friend was sad', the author used the character's proper name.
In fact, it was so annoying that I started highlighting her name on the pages in a effort to see if I was going crazy.
I wasn't.
On one page alone, Story is used 13 times!
I haven't seen any other reviews that mentioned this though, so maybe I have an uncorrected copy, and the newer version is different?
Anyway, I put it down for a few weeks, and then decided I was just going to power through this sucker.
And I have to say, the name thing stopped pretty soon after that. So, YAY!
Ok. The second time I almost DNF'd, was about 20% through, and I just couldn't take the juvenile tone of the book. Story is 20 years old, and home from college on a break.
But everything about her and her friends screams HIGH SCHOOL.
As in, somewhere between 15 and 16 years old. Which would be fine, if they were supposed to be immature. At 20 years old, they just sounded goofy.
I don't know how to properly explain it, but the characters just felt like they would have been very comfortable in a YA book.
Then there was the over-explaining.
For example, her friend, Elliott, get's all excited about meeting a goddess and says it was "Terramazing".
"Story grinned at Elliott's silly quirk. He had a way of putting two words together when he was talking fast so that he could get the sentence out faster. She knew this one meant both terrifying and amazing."
Wow. Thanks for explaining that, 'cause I sure couldn't have figured it out on my own.
?????
In fairness, the book got progressively better, until I finally was invested in the story enough to keep going...without motivating myself with promises of chocolate.
At that point, though, I mainly just wanted to know if all my guesses were correct about who certain people really were, and where certain threads of the plot were headed.
I was.
The Big Reveals were pretty easy to guess, and since I figured them out very early on, there weren't any GASP! moments for me. Boo!
I don't want to go out on a sour note, though.
So I want to say that the ideas the author came up with in this were actually pretty darn original. There's a whole mythology created about dual worlds, that mixed up gods and fairytales in a really interesting way. Some of it was pulled from recognizable tales, and some of it (Story's origin, especially) seemed wholly original.
This was evidently the first book in a series, but I'm not interested in reading the next one. At all.
However, there are lots of reviewers who loved Fractured Dream, so check out some of the other reviews, before you decide whether or not to grab this one.
Thank you, NetGalley!
July 28, 2014
2.5 Stars maybe I didn't like the heroine until the last 15% of the book it might be skewing everything.
Fractured Dreams incorporates a few things that I love in Fantasy’s. It has fairytales, epic backstories from time past and interesting characters so I’m not sure why I didn’t like it more. I was thinking it would be more along the lines of Once Upon a Time instead the re-imaginings of Fairy Tales fell a little short for me and felt more like a poor re-imagining of Once Upon a Time and really a copy of a copy starts to lose something. This is a unique work I just couldn’t get that comparison out of my head the entire time I read this.
There were a few other things that didn’t quite click in for me. I didn’t really like Story in the beginning and for much of the book which probably detracted from a lot of my enjoyment. She is supposed to have epic power but instead of trying to tap into it she spends a lot of time trying to deny who she is or running away from her feelings. I just thought she was too much of a special snowflake and got so frustrated when she kept denying her destiny.
The first half of the book moved really slowly as Story is whisked away into Tressla with her two best friends Adam and Elliot as she discovers who she is supposed to be and what her destiny is. Soon the journey begins and then there are reunions with people she has forgotten from her past. They seemed to take a very long time to get anywhere and Story was forever crying every time they ran into someone else. Then she meets Nicholas and bam it hits her hard.
I dislike insta love, but this book seemed to have an abundance of it. Story’s mother and father had love at first sight and she was conceived moments after their meeting, Story meets Nicholas and is drawn to him immediately even though she can tell he is hiding something from her and finally Adam even has a something at first sight with Jessa. I know they are fairytales but it was a bit much.
The last thing that didn’t really work for me was I was never really surprised. I read a lot of fantasy and I love to speculate on what is going to happen. I love it even more when I’m completely wrong or blindsided. But I guessed most of the major plot points of who the villain was, who Nicholas was and the showdown. This is KM Randal’s first book and I’m sure the execution of idea will be better in her future writing but pacing was an issue and the execution on the plot left a little to be desired on my part.
Redeeming Qualities - Every book has something that I enjoy and there were things that I really did like in this. The morphing of fairy tales was interesting. I liked that since Vampires had become such a big part of the real world that it leaked in interesting ways into Tressla, I was waiting for some zombies to pop up next. Also, I enjoyed how Story and her friends remained strongly together even in adversity. By the end of the book I was starting to like Story a little bit.
”Hell if that girl thinks we aren’t going with her.” Elliot turned to Adam, who looked back at him in disbelief.
“We are? I don’t know if I even believe this place exists.”
“You’re going to let Story go to a world that doesn’t exist without your protection?”
There are some interesting ideas and this series does have some great possibilities in the future but for me this one was a little clunky and didn’t pace well. Perhaps I’ll like both Story and the story more in the next installment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Booktrope for the ARC for review
Fractured Dreams incorporates a few things that I love in Fantasy’s. It has fairytales, epic backstories from time past and interesting characters so I’m not sure why I didn’t like it more. I was thinking it would be more along the lines of Once Upon a Time instead the re-imaginings of Fairy Tales fell a little short for me and felt more like a poor re-imagining of Once Upon a Time and really a copy of a copy starts to lose something. This is a unique work I just couldn’t get that comparison out of my head the entire time I read this.
There were a few other things that didn’t quite click in for me. I didn’t really like Story in the beginning and for much of the book which probably detracted from a lot of my enjoyment. She is supposed to have epic power but instead of trying to tap into it she spends a lot of time trying to deny who she is or running away from her feelings. I just thought she was too much of a special snowflake and got so frustrated when she kept denying her destiny.
The first half of the book moved really slowly as Story is whisked away into Tressla with her two best friends Adam and Elliot as she discovers who she is supposed to be and what her destiny is. Soon the journey begins and then there are reunions with people she has forgotten from her past. They seemed to take a very long time to get anywhere and Story was forever crying every time they ran into someone else. Then she meets Nicholas and bam it hits her hard.
I dislike insta love, but this book seemed to have an abundance of it. Story’s mother and father had love at first sight and she was conceived moments after their meeting, Story meets Nicholas and is drawn to him immediately even though she can tell he is hiding something from her and finally Adam even has a something at first sight with Jessa. I know they are fairytales but it was a bit much.
The last thing that didn’t really work for me was I was never really surprised. I read a lot of fantasy and I love to speculate on what is going to happen. I love it even more when I’m completely wrong or blindsided. But I guessed most of the major plot points of who the villain was, who Nicholas was and the showdown. This is KM Randal’s first book and I’m sure the execution of idea will be better in her future writing but pacing was an issue and the execution on the plot left a little to be desired on my part.
Redeeming Qualities - Every book has something that I enjoy and there were things that I really did like in this. The morphing of fairy tales was interesting. I liked that since Vampires had become such a big part of the real world that it leaked in interesting ways into Tressla, I was waiting for some zombies to pop up next. Also, I enjoyed how Story and her friends remained strongly together even in adversity. By the end of the book I was starting to like Story a little bit.
”Hell if that girl thinks we aren’t going with her.” Elliot turned to Adam, who looked back at him in disbelief.
“We are? I don’t know if I even believe this place exists.”
“You’re going to let Story go to a world that doesn’t exist without your protection?”
There are some interesting ideas and this series does have some great possibilities in the future but for me this one was a little clunky and didn’t pace well. Perhaps I’ll like both Story and the story more in the next installment.
Thank you to Netgalley and Booktrope for the ARC for review
May 3, 2014
Full review and Interview with Fractured Dream author, K.M. Randall. Here: http://summer-reads-ya.blogspot.com/2...
I received an ARC from the author for a "read-to-review".
This hasn't affected my review in any way.
Fractured Dream is an epic adventure that everyone will enjoy.
This book has everything a memorable fantasy book needs.
Lovable characters? Check!
Beautifully thought out story line? Check!
Amazing world? Check!
Interesting plot? Check!
Characters and creatures from famous fairytales? Check!
The world K.M. Randall created was so fascinating, I even had a dream about it. I've never felt so enthralled by a fantasy book ever since the Harry Potter series.
Ms. Randall's writing style was easy to read and compelling at the same time. It was wonderfully written, there were no dragging moments.
I feel so lucky to be given an ARC.
I can see this book being a huge hit worldwide. And I will be one of the first members of the Dreamer Saga fandom.
Update: 04/30/2014
With permission and confirmation from the author, the official name for the Dreamer Saga fans are called "Storytellers".
So, are you a Storyteller? I know I am. :)
I received an ARC from the author for a "read-to-review".
This hasn't affected my review in any way.
Fractured Dream is an epic adventure that everyone will enjoy.
This book has everything a memorable fantasy book needs.
Lovable characters? Check!
Beautifully thought out story line? Check!
Amazing world? Check!
Interesting plot? Check!
Characters and creatures from famous fairytales? Check!
The world K.M. Randall created was so fascinating, I even had a dream about it. I've never felt so enthralled by a fantasy book ever since the Harry Potter series.
Ms. Randall's writing style was easy to read and compelling at the same time. It was wonderfully written, there were no dragging moments.
I feel so lucky to be given an ARC.
I can see this book being a huge hit worldwide. And I will be one of the first members of the Dreamer Saga fandom.
Update: 04/30/2014
With permission and confirmation from the author, the official name for the Dreamer Saga fans are called "Storytellers".
So, are you a Storyteller? I know I am. :)
June 6, 2015
Honestly? I really tried reading this but the writing style is so repetitive and annoying...
Thank you netgalley for proving me this e-arc
Thank you netgalley for proving me this e-arc
March 16, 2016
You can read this review and more on my blog:
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Story (Yes, that’s her real name) is a young woman who has spent most of her life feeling like she doesn't belong. She was raised by a loving single mother, and has not one but two best guy friends who understand her better than she understands herself. But she still constantly deals with a strange, broken feeling.
This book starts off slowly, but once Story travels from our world to the fairy tale land, the pace picked up.
I didn't like or dislike Story as a heroine. She could be very impulsive, selfish, and even a little mean at times. Both of her best friends, Adam and Elliott, love her so much that they refuse to let her go on her adventure alone. They follow her to another world and risk their lives several times for her, and I felt like she was ungrateful at times. She seemed to learn to appreciate them more as the book progressed, but I don’t like it when the heroine doesn’t appreciate a good support system.
Wile in the fairy tale world, she slowly regains memories that have been lost since childhood, and reunites with people who have been devoted friends of hers for a long time. By far my favorite old friend of hers was Bliss, a tiny Thumbelina with a giant attitude. And I also liked Jess, the Red Riding Wolf Slayer.
It was a great idea to focus on these more obscure fairy tales and not the more easily recognized fables. I was expecting characters like Cinderella and Snow White to make an appearance, and while they did, it was a cameo instead of a starring role.
I'm not a huge fan of world building so I rarely read high fantasy. I can't help feeling boredom when scenery and magical powers are described in detail. However, just because I don't like it, that doesn't mean I don't recognize when it is well written. While reading, It felt like the author had actually visited this enchanted world, and was simply recounting everything she saw.
My biggest complaint about the book is the romance between Story and Nicholas. I have read a lot of romantic books, in fact, most of what I read has romantic focus. A lot of those books have included over the top, cheesy romance, and despite the cheese factor, I still enjoyed them. I like it when the man and woman say romantic things to each other, I really do, but I couldn't stand the romance in this book.
If a romance is too cheesy for me, then that's pretty darn cheesy. It read like an older Harlequin romance novel, and I’ve never liked those, and some of the language story used when thinking about Nicholas made me cringe. It wasn’t raunchy, it was dated and awkward. I mean who actually thinks that they want a guy to “ravish” them?
I also didn’t like the way Story would push Nicolas away one moment and cling to him the next. But in defense of the writing, this was pointed out to her by several of the supporting characters. I never connected with them as a couple, and I found myself wishing that another couple were the focus of the book. I wonder how much more I would have enjoyed the book if Bliss or Jess were the heroine instead of Story, and I’m pretty sure that I would have liked it a lot more.
This really was a good book that I simply did not connect with. If you like world building, original takes on fairy tales, and over the top romance, this is the book for you. It is very well written, and the pacing picks up about 25% of the way into the book and never slows down again.
Because of sexual content, violence, and mild language, I would recommend this book for ages 17 and up. There are a couple of sex scenes, but nothing too graphic.
This review was originally posted on Kookie Krysp Reads
Story (Yes, that’s her real name) is a young woman who has spent most of her life feeling like she doesn't belong. She was raised by a loving single mother, and has not one but two best guy friends who understand her better than she understands herself. But she still constantly deals with a strange, broken feeling.
This book starts off slowly, but once Story travels from our world to the fairy tale land, the pace picked up.
I didn't like or dislike Story as a heroine. She could be very impulsive, selfish, and even a little mean at times. Both of her best friends, Adam and Elliott, love her so much that they refuse to let her go on her adventure alone. They follow her to another world and risk their lives several times for her, and I felt like she was ungrateful at times. She seemed to learn to appreciate them more as the book progressed, but I don’t like it when the heroine doesn’t appreciate a good support system.
Wile in the fairy tale world, she slowly regains memories that have been lost since childhood, and reunites with people who have been devoted friends of hers for a long time. By far my favorite old friend of hers was Bliss, a tiny Thumbelina with a giant attitude. And I also liked Jess, the Red Riding Wolf Slayer.
It was a great idea to focus on these more obscure fairy tales and not the more easily recognized fables. I was expecting characters like Cinderella and Snow White to make an appearance, and while they did, it was a cameo instead of a starring role.
I'm not a huge fan of world building so I rarely read high fantasy. I can't help feeling boredom when scenery and magical powers are described in detail. However, just because I don't like it, that doesn't mean I don't recognize when it is well written. While reading, It felt like the author had actually visited this enchanted world, and was simply recounting everything she saw.
My biggest complaint about the book is the romance between Story and Nicholas. I have read a lot of romantic books, in fact, most of what I read has romantic focus. A lot of those books have included over the top, cheesy romance, and despite the cheese factor, I still enjoyed them. I like it when the man and woman say romantic things to each other, I really do, but I couldn't stand the romance in this book.
If a romance is too cheesy for me, then that's pretty darn cheesy. It read like an older Harlequin romance novel, and I’ve never liked those, and some of the language story used when thinking about Nicholas made me cringe. It wasn’t raunchy, it was dated and awkward. I mean who actually thinks that they want a guy to “ravish” them?
I also didn’t like the way Story would push Nicolas away one moment and cling to him the next. But in defense of the writing, this was pointed out to her by several of the supporting characters. I never connected with them as a couple, and I found myself wishing that another couple were the focus of the book. I wonder how much more I would have enjoyed the book if Bliss or Jess were the heroine instead of Story, and I’m pretty sure that I would have liked it a lot more.
This really was a good book that I simply did not connect with. If you like world building, original takes on fairy tales, and over the top romance, this is the book for you. It is very well written, and the pacing picks up about 25% of the way into the book and never slows down again.
Because of sexual content, violence, and mild language, I would recommend this book for ages 17 and up. There are a couple of sex scenes, but nothing too graphic.
This review was originally posted on Kookie Krysp Reads
November 24, 2025
Fractured Dream is a highly imaginative fantasy tale. Randall brings a fresh and exciting twist to fairy tales with a perfect blend of dark fantasy and alternate reality. Even though it is a pretty lengthy story, it runs at a good pace with enough constant action to carry the plot and world-building. The characters are fascinating, making us want to get to know them more. I highly enjoyed the story and look forward to the continuation of Story's adventures.
I received this copy of Fractured Dream in exchange for an honest review.
I received this copy of Fractured Dream in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2014
This book was great. It had everything- fantasy, romance, action and adventure. The main characters were incredibly believable, even in this wonderfully imaginative place. The plot seems so simple- a young woman trying to find her place in the grand scheme of things and yet it is so much more than that with each turn of the page. Love, friendship and family are all challenged in this story- it's really such a great story that anyone could enjoy. Read it!
May 18, 2014
LOVED this book!!!
May 21, 2016
As a big Once Upon A Time fan, and suffering as I am during the hiatus, this appealed to me hugely when I was reading the synopsis.
Story is a regular girl, on break from college with one of her best friends, Adam, they decide to go for a little hike, Elliot (bestie number two) arrives freaking out about how she needs him, once he's mellowed out, they go for a dip in the lake and end up in another world. Awkward. Here begins her journey to remember who she really is and to save the world! Along with her besties of course, and a warrior, not to mention the well known fairy-tale characters who join the fight against the current ruler. Now you see the Once Upon A Time appeal!
As you can see, I give this the big 5, which takes a lot and means it's really really awesome!
Fractured Dream is a perfect blend of fantasy, romance, action and adventure, pretty much everything you need in a good book right?
I've simplified the plot a lot in my little synopsis, but the book is so much more than you assume from the information given. It's quite long at 400 pages, well not very long for me, but for others it might be, but trust me, you'll fly through it easily. Why? Because the book is simple, it's so easy to read. You can really get in to the story, without having to constantly keep check of what's happened and things you need to remember, you can pick it up without doing a little "previously" in your head and just start reading!
I could find nothing bad with this book at all, other than it ending (cliche I know), so let's get to it!
The characters are fantastically written. I thought they where easy to connect with and the characters are interesting with plenty of depth and time spent bringing them to life. They where realistic and believable, which is always a good thing!
The plot is well thought out and written, as I said, it has the right blend of romance, action and so on, but also has a bit of darkness expertly woven in, so you get a bit of everything, and for the entire book you're constantly being surprised because you can't guess what's going to happen next.
I want to take a moment to mention the romance, because it was expertly written and didn't take over the story or detract from the main plot in any way, it was present and enjoyable but not overwhelming!
The world will suck you in, it's cinematic, atmospheric and you can picture everything, real life is a bit of a jolt! I've not read a book with world building this detailed and enthralling in a while, I can't even remember the last time to be honest!
The characters from our favourite fairytales are all present and correct, along with a couple of creatures! Very well done and a fun addition, breathing some fresh air to them and a new twist!
The writing was, as I said, easy to read, but it was also compelling and not so simple that it was ridiculous if you know what I mean! It was also fast paced with fantastic flow, there was no info dumps bogging it down, there where no slow moments where you got kind of bored and your attention wandered, you where totally engrossed on the book and unable to put it down.
Fractured Dream is a truly fantastic blend of different elements to create a rollercoaster of a story featuring loveable characters, fairytale characters and mythical creatures. Totally engrossing, you will immerse yourself in to the story and not be able to put it down until you've finished. But even when you have finished you'll be left wanting more, wanting to return to this incredibly imaginative world, and lucky for you, there's a big bad looming!
I can't wait for the second book, I need it now and I hope I'm lucky enough to review it!
For now, I take my hat off to Randall for her imagination, and for the fact this is the first 5 star review I've given a novel in weeks! Thankyou for a fantastic escape!
Story is a regular girl, on break from college with one of her best friends, Adam, they decide to go for a little hike, Elliot (bestie number two) arrives freaking out about how she needs him, once he's mellowed out, they go for a dip in the lake and end up in another world. Awkward. Here begins her journey to remember who she really is and to save the world! Along with her besties of course, and a warrior, not to mention the well known fairy-tale characters who join the fight against the current ruler. Now you see the Once Upon A Time appeal!
As you can see, I give this the big 5, which takes a lot and means it's really really awesome!
Fractured Dream is a perfect blend of fantasy, romance, action and adventure, pretty much everything you need in a good book right?
I've simplified the plot a lot in my little synopsis, but the book is so much more than you assume from the information given. It's quite long at 400 pages, well not very long for me, but for others it might be, but trust me, you'll fly through it easily. Why? Because the book is simple, it's so easy to read. You can really get in to the story, without having to constantly keep check of what's happened and things you need to remember, you can pick it up without doing a little "previously" in your head and just start reading!
I could find nothing bad with this book at all, other than it ending (cliche I know), so let's get to it!
The characters are fantastically written. I thought they where easy to connect with and the characters are interesting with plenty of depth and time spent bringing them to life. They where realistic and believable, which is always a good thing!
The plot is well thought out and written, as I said, it has the right blend of romance, action and so on, but also has a bit of darkness expertly woven in, so you get a bit of everything, and for the entire book you're constantly being surprised because you can't guess what's going to happen next.
I want to take a moment to mention the romance, because it was expertly written and didn't take over the story or detract from the main plot in any way, it was present and enjoyable but not overwhelming!
The world will suck you in, it's cinematic, atmospheric and you can picture everything, real life is a bit of a jolt! I've not read a book with world building this detailed and enthralling in a while, I can't even remember the last time to be honest!
The characters from our favourite fairytales are all present and correct, along with a couple of creatures! Very well done and a fun addition, breathing some fresh air to them and a new twist!
The writing was, as I said, easy to read, but it was also compelling and not so simple that it was ridiculous if you know what I mean! It was also fast paced with fantastic flow, there was no info dumps bogging it down, there where no slow moments where you got kind of bored and your attention wandered, you where totally engrossed on the book and unable to put it down.
Fractured Dream is a truly fantastic blend of different elements to create a rollercoaster of a story featuring loveable characters, fairytale characters and mythical creatures. Totally engrossing, you will immerse yourself in to the story and not be able to put it down until you've finished. But even when you have finished you'll be left wanting more, wanting to return to this incredibly imaginative world, and lucky for you, there's a big bad looming!
I can't wait for the second book, I need it now and I hope I'm lucky enough to review it!
For now, I take my hat off to Randall for her imagination, and for the fact this is the first 5 star review I've given a novel in weeks! Thankyou for a fantastic escape!
August 18, 2014
[Disclaimer: I received a free ebook from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.]
*sigh*
I really wanted to like this one, but what sounded like an interesting fairy tale-inspired fantasy turned out to be a melodramatic, overwrought teen romance drama.
Story Sparks (yes, that is her name, and it drove me nuts) is abducted, along with her two best friends, by a water goddess (Sandeen) who tells her that she used to be a goddess herself and needs to dispatch an evil overlord who is trying to destroy her world and the fairy tale world. Seriously, this actually sounded interesting. Not so much. Her uncle was abducted by the same water goddess before Story was born, and her mother has been a bit batshit about the lake ever since. So when Story goes missing, of course her mom (Edie) completely falls apart. After that we don't hear from Edie for pretty much the rest of the book.
So Story ends up going off on her magical quest to save the world, but doesn't have all the information she needs because Sandeen and pretty much everyone else in her life feels the need to keep secrets and not tell her anything, but still expect her to save them all. Okay, right.
There is a lot of sexual tension between Story and her best (straight) friend Adam (I say straight because her other best friend, Elliott, is gay, so no sexual tension there except between him and every single male fairy tale character he meets, because apparently he's a giant ho). The sexual tension between Story and Adam is weird, because apparently they aren't actually interested in each other, even though they each get jealous whenever the other shows any interest in anyone else. But eventually Story falls in love with someone, and Adam is all "Woe is me" until he meets someone else, and then it's like there was never anything between them from the start. What?
The secrets and lies and convoluted story line were way too much for me to handle. And the "origin story" that Story gets several times throughout the book changes so drastically, because everyone has a different version. Whose is right? Apparently only the last one you get in the last few pages of the book.
The writing was juvenile and sweeping. There was definite obvious use of a thesaurus. Every single character was beautiful no matter who they were. An old crone? Oh she was beautiful even with all the wrinkles on her face. The most normal guy on the planet? He's gorgeous and Elliott is drooling all over himself. No room for ugly people here! And the overbearing romantic style of the writing was too much. I felt like I was reading a book that was being put on as a play with some really bad actors who would get down on one knee and soliloquize to an inanimate object. Story's heart broke every time Nicholas looked away from her or frowned at her. It was trying way too hard to be a great book, and didn't try to be a good book.
I really don't understand how this book has almost completely five star reviews on Goodreads. It was not good. Story was a giant pain in the ass, and none of the other characters were even close to like-able. And the writing was just plain teen.
*sigh*
I really wanted to like this one, but what sounded like an interesting fairy tale-inspired fantasy turned out to be a melodramatic, overwrought teen romance drama.
Story Sparks (yes, that is her name, and it drove me nuts) is abducted, along with her two best friends, by a water goddess (Sandeen) who tells her that she used to be a goddess herself and needs to dispatch an evil overlord who is trying to destroy her world and the fairy tale world. Seriously, this actually sounded interesting. Not so much. Her uncle was abducted by the same water goddess before Story was born, and her mother has been a bit batshit about the lake ever since. So when Story goes missing, of course her mom (Edie) completely falls apart. After that we don't hear from Edie for pretty much the rest of the book.
So Story ends up going off on her magical quest to save the world, but doesn't have all the information she needs because Sandeen and pretty much everyone else in her life feels the need to keep secrets and not tell her anything, but still expect her to save them all. Okay, right.
There is a lot of sexual tension between Story and her best (straight) friend Adam (I say straight because her other best friend, Elliott, is gay, so no sexual tension there except between him and every single male fairy tale character he meets, because apparently he's a giant ho). The sexual tension between Story and Adam is weird, because apparently they aren't actually interested in each other, even though they each get jealous whenever the other shows any interest in anyone else. But eventually Story falls in love with someone, and Adam is all "Woe is me" until he meets someone else, and then it's like there was never anything between them from the start. What?
The secrets and lies and convoluted story line were way too much for me to handle. And the "origin story" that Story gets several times throughout the book changes so drastically, because everyone has a different version. Whose is right? Apparently only the last one you get in the last few pages of the book.
The writing was juvenile and sweeping. There was definite obvious use of a thesaurus. Every single character was beautiful no matter who they were. An old crone? Oh she was beautiful even with all the wrinkles on her face. The most normal guy on the planet? He's gorgeous and Elliott is drooling all over himself. No room for ugly people here! And the overbearing romantic style of the writing was too much. I felt like I was reading a book that was being put on as a play with some really bad actors who would get down on one knee and soliloquize to an inanimate object. Story's heart broke every time Nicholas looked away from her or frowned at her. It was trying way too hard to be a great book, and didn't try to be a good book.
I really don't understand how this book has almost completely five star reviews on Goodreads. It was not good. Story was a giant pain in the ass, and none of the other characters were even close to like-able. And the writing was just plain teen.
August 12, 2016
Review of the Fractured Dream The Fractured Dream was a lovely and exciting tale to read. It’s the kind of book you read in one breath because it’s very well written, funny and adventurous.Story, the main character, is so complex and real that you instantly feel like you’re her friend and want her to decipher the riddle of her strange dreams and nightmares. But Story is not only a unique girl in our dimension, as we get to know later, she’s also someone very special in the realm of the fairytales!
The idea of the seemingly ordinary lake Sandeen being a portal to a dimension of myths and fairy tales is just lovely and so is the idea of a young girl learning about her past/present/dark self, ultimately trying to feel complete again. It’s exciting to learn that Story is in fact connected to a profoundly important hero from the Fairytale Land’s past and may in fact bring the salvation in the future.What I found particularly exciting was the work with Story’s dark side/shadow, which eventually revives at one point in order to achieve good. The battle between good and evil is therefore not just black and white - it actually has a depth to it.
The novel explores various faces of love, being it the parental love, friendship and romance. There are so many beautifully drawn characters that I fell in love with and also enchanting sub-plots. My favorite was the love-story between Story and Nicholas, because it’s a love that transcends time and space, love that is spiritual as well as earthly passionate.The growth of Story as a character is beautifully interwoven with the main plot. She develops to be stronger and more confident, but most importantly, she explores different fragments of her mysterious personality, some of which remain hidden until the end of the first book. And this left me curious about what happens next and definitely made me want to set on a new journey with her.
The idea of the seemingly ordinary lake Sandeen being a portal to a dimension of myths and fairy tales is just lovely and so is the idea of a young girl learning about her past/present/dark self, ultimately trying to feel complete again. It’s exciting to learn that Story is in fact connected to a profoundly important hero from the Fairytale Land’s past and may in fact bring the salvation in the future.What I found particularly exciting was the work with Story’s dark side/shadow, which eventually revives at one point in order to achieve good. The battle between good and evil is therefore not just black and white - it actually has a depth to it.
The novel explores various faces of love, being it the parental love, friendship and romance. There are so many beautifully drawn characters that I fell in love with and also enchanting sub-plots. My favorite was the love-story between Story and Nicholas, because it’s a love that transcends time and space, love that is spiritual as well as earthly passionate.The growth of Story as a character is beautifully interwoven with the main plot. She develops to be stronger and more confident, but most importantly, she explores different fragments of her mysterious personality, some of which remain hidden until the end of the first book. And this left me curious about what happens next and definitely made me want to set on a new journey with her.
May 16, 2014
K. M. Randall’s debut novel, Fractured Dream is stupendous! This roller-coaster ride filled with mystery, adventure, mythical creatures, fairytale characters and real life heroes is like Once Upon a Time on speed. The main character, Story is a reluctant modern day heroine sent on a quest to save the mystical land of Tressla while in turn, saving ours as well. She is spunky, gutsy and full of gumption. She sets out with her two best friends, Adam and Elliot, renewing old friendships and creating new ones. Gradually, she builds the strength of alliances she needs to win a war of her own making.
And every heroine needs a hero by her side. Enter Nicholas, sultry and sexy he wins her heart but not without suffering through some trials and obstacles first. He is stubborn, secretive and furiously loyal to Story. But all the while she can’t help but feel there’s more to him then he’s willing to reveal…just yet anyway.
From the first page I was drawn into Randall’s world and enveloped in this alternant reality. I loved the characters, the premise and the adventures along the way. Randall’s writing is flawless and captivating. I cannot wait for the sequel to see what happens next!
***I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Mrs. Randall!!
And every heroine needs a hero by her side. Enter Nicholas, sultry and sexy he wins her heart but not without suffering through some trials and obstacles first. He is stubborn, secretive and furiously loyal to Story. But all the while she can’t help but feel there’s more to him then he’s willing to reveal…just yet anyway.
From the first page I was drawn into Randall’s world and enveloped in this alternant reality. I loved the characters, the premise and the adventures along the way. Randall’s writing is flawless and captivating. I cannot wait for the sequel to see what happens next!
***I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Mrs. Randall!!
April 15, 2019
The story was a perfect journey quest novel full of fantastical twists and turns. I loved the fast paced nature. There truly never was a dull moment and I cannot wait to read the sequel. The characters were well developed and endearing. While the book contained dark themes, it also was light enough that it never gets bogged down in them. Definitely recommend for any fantasy lover.
June 22, 2014
I don't say this often, but Fractured Dream is kind of an Allie book. The number one reason that I started writing and ultimately ended up publishing my own paranormal series was because I was looking for a book that I couldn't find in the bookstore and Fractured Dream is one of those books. There isn't really anything out there (that I've found) that is like it.
This debut novel reads as ten colorful strings woven together. From the first page, I was enticed by this story. It's one of those situations when you find that book that feels written just for you, a bit, and you start reading and you're like oooooh pretty!
The romantic element weighs in thickly, but is not overbearing and does not overpower the storyline. Something to be noted is the methodically built world that Randall introduces. Fans of romantic fantasy know that more times than not, you have to choose one or the other: romance or world-building. Such is not the case with Fractured Dream It is a beautifully written novel that weaves magic and adventure into the darkness and danger that is the essence of telling every good story. What surprised me about this novel was how highly-charged and fast it went. It is a long book, but you barely notice (especially for those who prefer your books short like me).
Fans of reality versus fantasy and how humanity strives to adapt somewhere in between, I'd watch Randall's career with interest. She has brought dedicated readers of magical stories an outstanding debut.
**A complimentary copy of this e-book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Geeks Unleashed
This debut novel reads as ten colorful strings woven together. From the first page, I was enticed by this story. It's one of those situations when you find that book that feels written just for you, a bit, and you start reading and you're like oooooh pretty!
The romantic element weighs in thickly, but is not overbearing and does not overpower the storyline. Something to be noted is the methodically built world that Randall introduces. Fans of romantic fantasy know that more times than not, you have to choose one or the other: romance or world-building. Such is not the case with Fractured Dream It is a beautifully written novel that weaves magic and adventure into the darkness and danger that is the essence of telling every good story. What surprised me about this novel was how highly-charged and fast it went. It is a long book, but you barely notice (especially for those who prefer your books short like me).
Fans of reality versus fantasy and how humanity strives to adapt somewhere in between, I'd watch Randall's career with interest. She has brought dedicated readers of magical stories an outstanding debut.
**A complimentary copy of this e-book was provided to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Geeks Unleashed
June 2, 2014
I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy from the author’s manager. Content may have changed between the copy I received and publication.
As is indicative of the genre, Story falls into a world she’s destined to help. I don’t know about other readers but I didn’t like her at first. She struck me as self-absorbed and more teenager than young adult (her mother notes this as well early on in the advent of mood swings). She has vivid imaginary friends and her paintings depict violent scenes born of her dreams. To be fair to the character, when Story falls into this alternate world everything she’s been struggling to make sense of and everything that has perhaps made her a bit odd falls into place.
Good fantasy is imbued with darkness, danger and hope. “Fractured Dreams” has those qualities in spades. Hope leaves room for humor even if it’s in the sense that we may as well laugh at ourselves because our next moment may be all we have.
There is a heavy romantic thread in the novel in the relationship between Story and Nicholas. Randall’s threading of the relationship in the story so that it doesn’t distract from the core message is expertly done so that fantasy readers won’t roll their eyes but romance readers have a storyline to which to cling.
“Fractured Dreams” is a story not yet complete. Readers of this first novel will have a sense of having read a complete story but will have a need to read on. Story may have settled the immediate problems of the alternate world but a much bigger bad looms and that bad is just thrilling.
As is indicative of the genre, Story falls into a world she’s destined to help. I don’t know about other readers but I didn’t like her at first. She struck me as self-absorbed and more teenager than young adult (her mother notes this as well early on in the advent of mood swings). She has vivid imaginary friends and her paintings depict violent scenes born of her dreams. To be fair to the character, when Story falls into this alternate world everything she’s been struggling to make sense of and everything that has perhaps made her a bit odd falls into place.
Good fantasy is imbued with darkness, danger and hope. “Fractured Dreams” has those qualities in spades. Hope leaves room for humor even if it’s in the sense that we may as well laugh at ourselves because our next moment may be all we have.
There is a heavy romantic thread in the novel in the relationship between Story and Nicholas. Randall’s threading of the relationship in the story so that it doesn’t distract from the core message is expertly done so that fantasy readers won’t roll their eyes but romance readers have a storyline to which to cling.
“Fractured Dreams” is a story not yet complete. Readers of this first novel will have a sense of having read a complete story but will have a need to read on. Story may have settled the immediate problems of the alternate world but a much bigger bad looms and that bad is just thrilling.
June 24, 2014
Wow! What an amazing journey.
These were the first words to come to my mind after The End.
I'll be real honest here and say that I find it to really hard to literally go into a book and stay there. Fractured Dream did that to me. I did not want to come out. This is the kind fantasy you just wish would go on and on and on. The magic, romance, friendships were heartwarming and touching which really got to me.
The characters? Don't even get me started on them. They were simply perfect and I loved each and every one of them be it Story, Adam, Elliott,Jess,Nik, Or Bliss. Each of these characters you will be helpless to love. Well obviosly the bad guys excluded. LOL
Fractured Dream is a mystical adventure full of twists & turns. We win some we lose some. This book will without a doubt keep to stuck to it till the end. Hats off to the author for such an amazing debut.
These were the first words to come to my mind after The End.
I'll be real honest here and say that I find it to really hard to literally go into a book and stay there. Fractured Dream did that to me. I did not want to come out. This is the kind fantasy you just wish would go on and on and on. The magic, romance, friendships were heartwarming and touching which really got to me.
The characters? Don't even get me started on them. They were simply perfect and I loved each and every one of them be it Story, Adam, Elliott,Jess,Nik, Or Bliss. Each of these characters you will be helpless to love. Well obviosly the bad guys excluded. LOL
Fractured Dream is a mystical adventure full of twists & turns. We win some we lose some. This book will without a doubt keep to stuck to it till the end. Hats off to the author for such an amazing debut.
July 23, 2014
Fantastic!!!
This is a can't put it down read. The way the writer describes this world and dream world is amazing.The characters are so beautiful described, you can picture the gardens the fairytales and all the beautiful places that the main characters travel through. This is a fantastic read from start to finish. I didn't want it to end.There is enough action, romance and general interaction between the characters to keep you reading. I really can't wait for the next installment of this series, from this up and coming author.
This is a can't put it down read. The way the writer describes this world and dream world is amazing.The characters are so beautiful described, you can picture the gardens the fairytales and all the beautiful places that the main characters travel through. This is a fantastic read from start to finish. I didn't want it to end.There is enough action, romance and general interaction between the characters to keep you reading. I really can't wait for the next installment of this series, from this up and coming author.
November 1, 2014
Oh man, this book was a winner for me. I couldn't put it down in between jobs. I even told some of my patients about it. I don't know why but even from the beginning I was hooked. I'm a lot like Story with asking a lot of questions all the time, but still closing herself up. This book made me want to go to the world of fairy tales. I would recommend this book for really anyone. I can't wait to read the next! Happy reading everyone!
September 13, 2014
Check out this review and more on my blog http://lostinlit.com
I don’t even know where to start with this review. I was surprised to find that it has a 4 start rating on GoodReads, it makes me feel even worse for disliking it so much. All I could here the whole time I was reading this was my 2 year olds voice saying “Mommy, I can’t like it” because that is how I felt!
I tried and then I tried some more and around 40% I just couldn’t do it anymore. I had no connection to the characters, the plot was muddled and didn’t come together for me at all. I felt the Author assumed the reader just understood her logic and the world she created. Things were very poorly explained especially the MC Story (Story is her name), I just didn’t get her at all. Because I didn’t like her or understand her it made the story even less appealing. Things just didn’t add up… for example If Story is so afraid of the lake why does she go there? I don’t know about you, but if a place scares me I don’t go there! I mean was she thinking… “Oh this lake is so scary… my uncle drowned here… let me go for a swim in it?!”
The setting of Tressla was just so weird for me. I know it’s a made up world, but it felt that way. It was so contrived and odd and I just couldn’t get into it. I have read other books where this type of setting feels like an actual place and I believe it, this was not one of them.
Somehow this book managed to move at a snails pace, but throw so much information at you that you are just reeling like… what? who? where? I was just lost! I don’t read a lot of reviews before starting a book because I don’t want my image to be skewed before I even read it. In this case, I wish that I had. Several reviews said it moved slowly, the MC wasn’t likeable until the end, there was major insta-love and to wait for the end of the book and it finally picks up… ummmm HOW did this get a 4 star rating if that is how people felt?
OK, I need to stop, please forgive me for my ranting. I hate to give negative reviews, but I am majorly disappointed for such a cool concept to turn out such an epic fail (for me). Some people really like this so I apologize if I have offended them. This is just my opinion.
I don’t even know where to start with this review. I was surprised to find that it has a 4 start rating on GoodReads, it makes me feel even worse for disliking it so much. All I could here the whole time I was reading this was my 2 year olds voice saying “Mommy, I can’t like it” because that is how I felt!
I tried and then I tried some more and around 40% I just couldn’t do it anymore. I had no connection to the characters, the plot was muddled and didn’t come together for me at all. I felt the Author assumed the reader just understood her logic and the world she created. Things were very poorly explained especially the MC Story (Story is her name), I just didn’t get her at all. Because I didn’t like her or understand her it made the story even less appealing. Things just didn’t add up… for example If Story is so afraid of the lake why does she go there? I don’t know about you, but if a place scares me I don’t go there! I mean was she thinking… “Oh this lake is so scary… my uncle drowned here… let me go for a swim in it?!”
The setting of Tressla was just so weird for me. I know it’s a made up world, but it felt that way. It was so contrived and odd and I just couldn’t get into it. I have read other books where this type of setting feels like an actual place and I believe it, this was not one of them.
Somehow this book managed to move at a snails pace, but throw so much information at you that you are just reeling like… what? who? where? I was just lost! I don’t read a lot of reviews before starting a book because I don’t want my image to be skewed before I even read it. In this case, I wish that I had. Several reviews said it moved slowly, the MC wasn’t likeable until the end, there was major insta-love and to wait for the end of the book and it finally picks up… ummmm HOW did this get a 4 star rating if that is how people felt?
OK, I need to stop, please forgive me for my ranting. I hate to give negative reviews, but I am majorly disappointed for such a cool concept to turn out such an epic fail (for me). Some people really like this so I apologize if I have offended them. This is just my opinion.
October 3, 2014
DNF at 40%
I really wanted to like this book _as I do with every single one I read! _ but unfortunately the writing style didn't work for me. ( I am however aware that I've become extremely nitpicky with my old age, and that in the past I've finished books worse than this one! )
It isn't as if this was carelessly done, quite on the contrary!
But as I read this, I couldn't help feeling as if a little kid had had access to her mother's (father's) makeup, and really indulged in all those colours and textures. The phrases are overdone with an excess of adjectives, that end up clashing with the more colloquial speech that the characters use.
Also there's this sugared tendency, that for me became cloying:
"(..)the shadow that stalked her gently."
"Bliss frowned prettily at her companion."
"..smile his gentle smile.."
You know how there's purple prose? Well, this book's writing style made me think: pink one!
Also the main character is called Story, and her name is used in practically every sentence:
It becomes too much.
The characters, despite apparently being on their twenties, felt as if they're only teens as proved by their less than intelligent actions...
Also in this story you can expect the: You're special..snowflake factor.
The thing is, there's characters who know how to use it, and others who don't.
In the forty percent of this that I read, Story was just being her clueless self who was not that interested in changing that situation.
There was also a heavy dose of insta-love/lust...with two couples, probably three ( I didn't get to that part o_O).
The world building was relegated to Story occasionally saying something along the lines of: Oh, I remember this..and that...and that was it.
Too much telling, not enough showing.
Sorry, not for me..maybe with a heavy dose of editing this could work out, but at this point I don't find either the story or the characters that interesting to begin with.
I really wanted to like this book _as I do with every single one I read! _ but unfortunately the writing style didn't work for me. ( I am however aware that I've become extremely nitpicky with my old age, and that in the past I've finished books worse than this one! )
It isn't as if this was carelessly done, quite on the contrary!
But as I read this, I couldn't help feeling as if a little kid had had access to her mother's (father's) makeup, and really indulged in all those colours and textures. The phrases are overdone with an excess of adjectives, that end up clashing with the more colloquial speech that the characters use.
Also there's this sugared tendency, that for me became cloying:
"(..)the shadow that stalked her gently."
"Bliss frowned prettily at her companion."
"..smile his gentle smile.."
You know how there's purple prose? Well, this book's writing style made me think: pink one!
Also the main character is called Story, and her name is used in practically every sentence:
It becomes too much.
The characters, despite apparently being on their twenties, felt as if they're only teens as proved by their less than intelligent actions...
Also in this story you can expect the: You're special..snowflake factor.
The thing is, there's characters who know how to use it, and others who don't.
In the forty percent of this that I read, Story was just being her clueless self who was not that interested in changing that situation.
There was also a heavy dose of insta-love/lust...with two couples, probably three ( I didn't get to that part o_O).
The world building was relegated to Story occasionally saying something along the lines of: Oh, I remember this..and that...and that was it.
Too much telling, not enough showing.
Sorry, not for me..maybe with a heavy dose of editing this could work out, but at this point I don't find either the story or the characters that interesting to begin with.
June 22, 2014
http://imlovingbooks.blogspot.nl/2014...
Wanna win this book? check out the giveaway on my blog!
Throughout this story the writing is consistent and was beautiful. The story is written from the multiple characters, which was very fun to read. I also gained more prospective and insight in the side characters in stead of just the main character. New characters were gradually introduced so I could keep up with who was who ;)
The prologue was intriguing and immediately made think about the possibilities with this story. I always love it when a writer get's you thinking like that.
The main character Story suffers from memory loss, which caused me to try to discover with her what the secrets are she had forgotten all about. Story is searching to find herself again. She doesn't really know what's she's searching. She just knows something is missing.
I love the difference between the two best friends Adam and Elliott. They are both great characters within this story.
The part near the water was very thrilling and fast-paced. Something was in that lake... The sens of mystery keeps coming back within the story, which is very appealing to read more.
I've always loved fairytales and I think the author did a great job integrating the stories we all know and giving them a different and unique twist. I loved all the fantasy elements !
I really liked pretty much every character in this book. Which rarely happens..
I think I could go on and on about the different great things in this book but the truth is, I loved it! I think it's amazing that the author writes a book like this as a first novel!
A great debut novel written beautifully full of fantasy elements and creatures and great characters.
Wanna win this book? check out the giveaway on my blog!
http://imlovingbooks.blogspot.nl/2014...
Wanna win this book? check out the giveaway on my blog!
Throughout this story the writing is consistent and was beautiful. The story is written from the multiple characters, which was very fun to read. I also gained more prospective and insight in the side characters in stead of just the main character. New characters were gradually introduced so I could keep up with who was who ;)
The prologue was intriguing and immediately made think about the possibilities with this story. I always love it when a writer get's you thinking like that.
The main character Story suffers from memory loss, which caused me to try to discover with her what the secrets are she had forgotten all about. Story is searching to find herself again. She doesn't really know what's she's searching. She just knows something is missing.
I love the difference between the two best friends Adam and Elliott. They are both great characters within this story.
The part near the water was very thrilling and fast-paced. Something was in that lake... The sens of mystery keeps coming back within the story, which is very appealing to read more.
I've always loved fairytales and I think the author did a great job integrating the stories we all know and giving them a different and unique twist. I loved all the fantasy elements !
I really liked pretty much every character in this book. Which rarely happens..
I think I could go on and on about the different great things in this book but the truth is, I loved it! I think it's amazing that the author writes a book like this as a first novel!
A great debut novel written beautifully full of fantasy elements and creatures and great characters.
Wanna win this book? check out the giveaway on my blog!
http://imlovingbooks.blogspot.nl/2014...
June 23, 2016
I received a free digital copy from the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest feedback.
Story Sparks is a dreamer. Or at least she was until one day, she suddenly stopped dreaming and appeared to lose all memories of her previous dreams. One day, Story and her two friends Elliot and Adam are sucked underwater into the In Between land where Story finds out she is The First Dreamer and must undertake a quest to bring the Real World and the In Between together again and save everyone.
This story incorporated the fairytale world in a way that I loved. Having places called Locksley and Sherwood and then a generation of women who are Little Red Riding Hoods who are legendary warriors against The Big Bad Wolves. Yes. I found the world-building pretty good, and I think if there was ever a map of this world it would be really pretty.
The insta-love was a bt much at times between Story and Nicholas (even when it was explained). There is only so many times I can stomach the mentions of swooning at his touch and the want to be swept off her feet and kissed passionately before I get a bit sick. There were times I felt like I was scrambling to keep up with Story's relationships with new characters. She would meet someone and there would be a reunion but then it felt like a while before it was explained who the character was and their relationship with Story. And then other things seemed sooo obvious like why both Brink and Nichlolas felt so familiar looking to Story. Come on lady!
Overall, it was a pretty fun adventure with a great twist on fairytales and mythical creatures.
Story Sparks is a dreamer. Or at least she was until one day, she suddenly stopped dreaming and appeared to lose all memories of her previous dreams. One day, Story and her two friends Elliot and Adam are sucked underwater into the In Between land where Story finds out she is The First Dreamer and must undertake a quest to bring the Real World and the In Between together again and save everyone.
This story incorporated the fairytale world in a way that I loved. Having places called Locksley and Sherwood and then a generation of women who are Little Red Riding Hoods who are legendary warriors against The Big Bad Wolves. Yes. I found the world-building pretty good, and I think if there was ever a map of this world it would be really pretty.
The insta-love was a bt much at times between Story and Nicholas (even when it was explained). There is only so many times I can stomach the mentions of swooning at his touch and the want to be swept off her feet and kissed passionately before I get a bit sick. There were times I felt like I was scrambling to keep up with Story's relationships with new characters. She would meet someone and there would be a reunion but then it felt like a while before it was explained who the character was and their relationship with Story. And then other things seemed sooo obvious like why both Brink and Nichlolas felt so familiar looking to Story. Come on lady!
Overall, it was a pretty fun adventure with a great twist on fairytales and mythical creatures.
August 25, 2015
I like fairytale retellings. Fractured Dream isn’t exactly a fairytale retelling, but many fairytale characters are in this story. There is a lot of teenaged angst, and drama, but not as much as some YA stories out there.
The book has plenty of action adventure with fantasy elements. The story stands on its own, and if you were to replace all the known fairytale characters with ones made up by the author, the story would not change since the story is more original with the fairytale characters doing cameos.
The original mythology in Fractured Dreams is easy to follow and understand, and I felt it was a great fantasy read. There was some romance, and in a few places was annoying, but overall the romance element didn’t detract from the story.
Fans of the ABC show, Once Upon a Time will enjoy Fractured Dream. This one is the first story of the Dreamer Saga, and I look forward to reading future installments.
The book has plenty of action adventure with fantasy elements. The story stands on its own, and if you were to replace all the known fairytale characters with ones made up by the author, the story would not change since the story is more original with the fairytale characters doing cameos.
The original mythology in Fractured Dreams is easy to follow and understand, and I felt it was a great fantasy read. There was some romance, and in a few places was annoying, but overall the romance element didn’t detract from the story.
Fans of the ABC show, Once Upon a Time will enjoy Fractured Dream. This one is the first story of the Dreamer Saga, and I look forward to reading future installments.
November 1, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from Lovers of Paranormal (LOP) on goodreads.com
What really got me interested in Fractured Dream, was the idea of bringing a new spin on fairytales. It takes the typical story of a girl who has to go on an adventure to find herself, and it adds suspense, love, death, violence, and independence. It took a while, about 70 pages to get into the main story. The chapters are set up in various lengths. The one thing that I did not like was that I felt the author was trying to put too many characters into the book, so the scenes played out rather on the short end instead of elaborating on the main/minor characters, setting, dialogue, etc. Overall, I will be looking out for the next book in the series to see what happens next.
What really got me interested in Fractured Dream, was the idea of bringing a new spin on fairytales. It takes the typical story of a girl who has to go on an adventure to find herself, and it adds suspense, love, death, violence, and independence. It took a while, about 70 pages to get into the main story. The chapters are set up in various lengths. The one thing that I did not like was that I felt the author was trying to put too many characters into the book, so the scenes played out rather on the short end instead of elaborating on the main/minor characters, setting, dialogue, etc. Overall, I will be looking out for the next book in the series to see what happens next.
November 2, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal). When I started this book, I was skeptical on the whole spin on a fairy tale idea. But I was also intrigued and since I am a Once Upon a Time fan I decided to give it a try. One of my better decisions for sure! I loved the characters, the world building, and especially the back stories. I was really bummed when it ended and I can't wait for the next one.
May 20, 2015
This is an epic journey through a magical land. I want to get lost in Tressla. It is an interesting take on fairytales. I was so drawn to this book. The cover alone made me want to read it. As I turned each page I was sucked in to this magical world. The imagery was impressive and imaginative. At most points throughout the story I thought I was Story traveling and regaining my memory and embracing my future. Amazing! I am excited to read the next book.
August 25, 2014
For more reviews, please visit my site.
Story Sparks's life gets turned upside-down when she and her two best friends are transported to another world. There she finds out that she is the reincarnation of an ancient deity, destined to save this other land from its evil ruler and unite the worlds once more.
This book get very cool, very fast. It begins exactly the way you would want a fantasy book to, with a lot of mystery surrounding the main character, but particularly the fate of her uncle, who disappeared whilst swimming in the lake and was never found. This beginning part was extremely enjoyable to read as we encountered our main characters and some weird goings-on to do with horrific paintings and lost memories.
When we finally got into the other world, many of these initial secrets were revealed only for bigger questions to be asked, focusing around Story herself this time. This felt like an entirely different book, really, because we were transported into a world where those weird unexplained things were merely inconsequential compared to the enormity of the next task. However, overall this wasn't a bad thing as it gradually revealed plot point that would take us on a bigger adventure. The very beginning of this part did feel a little bit like an info-dump because there was a lot to explain and a lot of memories being rekindled.
Ok, first off, Story has to be one of the strangest names ever, and it never sat well with me while reading the book. I understand how apt it is for her character, but still, it's jarring for me. Anyway, Story was a very well-rounded character, despite having missing parts of her memories. She is a sweet, determined girl who wants to do her best for all the people she has just met as well as the ones she has known for some time. However, my favourite character was actually a toss-up between Jess and Elliot, who both had big personalities, with Elliot being the most awesome psychic gay best friend around and therefore taking that top spot.
This is certainly an unusual novel. It is definitely contemporary, with a lot of current references at the beginning of the novel, but I would describe it mostly as a New Adult read as there are some scenes with sexual content. Nothing that a YA couldn't handle in my opinion, but not something you would actually hand to your kids to read. It has fantasy and fairy-tale elements and twists them out of shape, turning princesses into monsters. The romance element completely denies the love at first sight cliche by involving the element of reincarnation and fate, and also allows the relationship to develop slowly over the book. This was nice and quite refreshing to read.
Whilst there were many twists in this story, a lot of them were easy to guess, I mean, so the end came as no shock to me either. Still, it was fun to see how it all went down. The pace really picked up in the last third as the book closed with some good action and a lot of emotion coming from the characters.
Given the size of the book, I admit I was expecting a rounded off story, but this appears to be a duology or a trilogy as there is a whole new adventure waiting for Story at the end of this. Fractured Dream is a very well-imagined, beautifully described novel where fairy-tales and mythologies all come together beautifully to create a flowing narrative. Highly enjoyable for people who like mythology, folklore, fairy-tales and magic.
Story Sparks's life gets turned upside-down when she and her two best friends are transported to another world. There she finds out that she is the reincarnation of an ancient deity, destined to save this other land from its evil ruler and unite the worlds once more.
This book get very cool, very fast. It begins exactly the way you would want a fantasy book to, with a lot of mystery surrounding the main character, but particularly the fate of her uncle, who disappeared whilst swimming in the lake and was never found. This beginning part was extremely enjoyable to read as we encountered our main characters and some weird goings-on to do with horrific paintings and lost memories.
When we finally got into the other world, many of these initial secrets were revealed only for bigger questions to be asked, focusing around Story herself this time. This felt like an entirely different book, really, because we were transported into a world where those weird unexplained things were merely inconsequential compared to the enormity of the next task. However, overall this wasn't a bad thing as it gradually revealed plot point that would take us on a bigger adventure. The very beginning of this part did feel a little bit like an info-dump because there was a lot to explain and a lot of memories being rekindled.
Ok, first off, Story has to be one of the strangest names ever, and it never sat well with me while reading the book. I understand how apt it is for her character, but still, it's jarring for me. Anyway, Story was a very well-rounded character, despite having missing parts of her memories. She is a sweet, determined girl who wants to do her best for all the people she has just met as well as the ones she has known for some time. However, my favourite character was actually a toss-up between Jess and Elliot, who both had big personalities, with Elliot being the most awesome psychic gay best friend around and therefore taking that top spot.
This is certainly an unusual novel. It is definitely contemporary, with a lot of current references at the beginning of the novel, but I would describe it mostly as a New Adult read as there are some scenes with sexual content. Nothing that a YA couldn't handle in my opinion, but not something you would actually hand to your kids to read. It has fantasy and fairy-tale elements and twists them out of shape, turning princesses into monsters. The romance element completely denies the love at first sight cliche by involving the element of reincarnation and fate, and also allows the relationship to develop slowly over the book. This was nice and quite refreshing to read.
Whilst there were many twists in this story, a lot of them were easy to guess, I mean, so the end came as no shock to me either. Still, it was fun to see how it all went down. The pace really picked up in the last third as the book closed with some good action and a lot of emotion coming from the characters.
Given the size of the book, I admit I was expecting a rounded off story, but this appears to be a duology or a trilogy as there is a whole new adventure waiting for Story at the end of this. Fractured Dream is a very well-imagined, beautifully described novel where fairy-tales and mythologies all come together beautifully to create a flowing narrative. Highly enjoyable for people who like mythology, folklore, fairy-tales and magic.
June 14, 2015
A world where fairytale's characters exist? Where Nightmares and Big Bad Wolves walk the same soil as them? A Red Riding Hood who slays wolves and grins when she does it? THIS BOOK HAS ALL OF IT AND MORE.
---- REVIEW ----
"Could your dreams follow you out into reality?"
This book has READ ME I'M AWESOME all over it. It's a fairytale book: it screamed at me since miles long. I craved it really fast. And when I started reading it, there was no going back.
The Story and Characters
Damn Ms Randall. You got me since the beginning. Made me want to read more and you kept me engaged until the very end. I adored me some fairytale book but this has its twists and turns. There's your usual fairytale character: Red Riding Hood. Instead of fearing the wolf, her mission in life is to kill them all. And Red Riding Hood is one of many characters that just. Kick. Butt.
The story was slow for me at first but picked up really early too. I didn't go a minute when I wanted to leave it or just felt like it wasn't working for me.The bad guys were 1000% cool and the good guys gave me shivers. Good shivers. I wanted to be there in the gang and fight alongside with them? I mean they were freaking awesome.
Also the Nightmares and the Big Bad Wolves!!! Ahhhh. This book has the best villains ever. Ok there's the BIG villain in the book but there's also his minions and Nightmares and Big Bads are them. They're pretty cool and scary. And someone (KM Randall) told me some Big Bads like cookies.... so I recommend you to have some so you can shoo them off *wink wink*
The main gang!!! Please be my friends forever. I grew to like Story. She isn't my favorite of all of them but she is a great character. There's some really awesome things that are going to pop up in the story and *ahh* just please hit me up when it happens (anyone who decides to read it). I like the journey she goes through and all the frienships she has.
Elliott is the bomb dot com and Adam as well. There's so many funny times those two have. I seriously /throws confetti at them/ babes. Nicholas was such a cupcake and so sweet and cinnamon roll type of cuteness, guys. Jess aka Red Riding Hood is so badass I wish I could be her.
"A brave little girl who knew one day she would grow up to fight the baddest Wolf of them all."
There's so many other amazing characters and I seriously I'm in love with them. Have them so close to my heart now. I shed tears for them and laughed alongside them. Our relationship is C L O S E. LOL no but seriously this book has so many nice, badass characters. You need to meet them all.
Randall's take on the fairytales was A+ and very, very interesting. It made it all more intriguing and super cool.
*I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
---- REVIEW ----
"Could your dreams follow you out into reality?"
This book has READ ME I'M AWESOME all over it. It's a fairytale book: it screamed at me since miles long. I craved it really fast. And when I started reading it, there was no going back.
The Story and Characters
Damn Ms Randall. You got me since the beginning. Made me want to read more and you kept me engaged until the very end. I adored me some fairytale book but this has its twists and turns. There's your usual fairytale character: Red Riding Hood. Instead of fearing the wolf, her mission in life is to kill them all. And Red Riding Hood is one of many characters that just. Kick. Butt.
The story was slow for me at first but picked up really early too. I didn't go a minute when I wanted to leave it or just felt like it wasn't working for me.The bad guys were 1000% cool and the good guys gave me shivers. Good shivers. I wanted to be there in the gang and fight alongside with them? I mean they were freaking awesome.
Also the Nightmares and the Big Bad Wolves!!! Ahhhh. This book has the best villains ever. Ok there's the BIG villain in the book but there's also his minions and Nightmares and Big Bads are them. They're pretty cool and scary. And someone (KM Randall) told me some Big Bads like cookies.... so I recommend you to have some so you can shoo them off *wink wink*
The main gang!!! Please be my friends forever. I grew to like Story. She isn't my favorite of all of them but she is a great character. There's some really awesome things that are going to pop up in the story and *ahh* just please hit me up when it happens (anyone who decides to read it). I like the journey she goes through and all the frienships she has.
Elliott is the bomb dot com and Adam as well. There's so many funny times those two have. I seriously /throws confetti at them/ babes. Nicholas was such a cupcake and so sweet and cinnamon roll type of cuteness, guys. Jess aka Red Riding Hood is so badass I wish I could be her.
"A brave little girl who knew one day she would grow up to fight the baddest Wolf of them all."
There's so many other amazing characters and I seriously I'm in love with them. Have them so close to my heart now. I shed tears for them and laughed alongside them. Our relationship is C L O S E. LOL no but seriously this book has so many nice, badass characters. You need to meet them all.
Randall's take on the fairytales was A+ and very, very interesting. It made it all more intriguing and super cool.
*I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
August 19, 2014
Do you believe in fairytale creatures? If you don’t yet, you will by the time you finish reading Story’s, well, story.
Story was an odd child. She had all of these “make believe” friends that she would visit in her sleep. One day, she started having terrible nightmares. And all of a sudden, there was nothing. Story was left with a feeling that she was forgetting something very important. A huge part of her life was missing. She grew up and went away to college, but when she returned home for a visit, the nightmares started again.
Story and her best childhood friend (a nature freak) as well as her BFF from college (a seer) were at Lake Sandeen one day, the lake where Story’s uncle disappeared about 20 years prior. They were all in the water, after saving a drowning boy, and disappeared without a trace just as her uncle had. Once, they woke up from their journey to the in-between, Story and her friends began to learn of where they were and why, as well as where they would be going. Sandeen, the goddess that summoned the three to the in-between, sent Story to the Chamber of Dreams to recall all she had forgotten. Turns out she wasn’t just dreaming. When Story slept, she would enter another world, Tressla.
Now Tressla is in danger of being destroyed by Brink who plans to use Story’s abilities to combine the real world and the fairytale world. All fairytales and fairytale creatures would be lost forever. It is Story’s destiny to save both worlds.
Will she be able to believe in herself again in order to save both worlds from destruction?
Fractured Dream was a delight. There was some confusion at the beginning of the story, but it all panned out eventually. The author did a fantastic job of combining the real world characters with the in-between and Tressla. The story was so well written that it is easy to believe that these places actually truly exist. The book is very long, and very detailed. There is a backstory to everything that is brought into the book, which helps to understand why things are occurring as they are.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys fairytale creatures and humans living in the same worlds. I think the book will leaving you wishing for a part of Story’s life in your own as it has me.
Bliss, the Thumbelina is my favorite character. She is quite snarky and always giving the non-believing Adam grief over his inability to conceive the truth even when it’s right in front of him.
Story was an odd child. She had all of these “make believe” friends that she would visit in her sleep. One day, she started having terrible nightmares. And all of a sudden, there was nothing. Story was left with a feeling that she was forgetting something very important. A huge part of her life was missing. She grew up and went away to college, but when she returned home for a visit, the nightmares started again.
Story and her best childhood friend (a nature freak) as well as her BFF from college (a seer) were at Lake Sandeen one day, the lake where Story’s uncle disappeared about 20 years prior. They were all in the water, after saving a drowning boy, and disappeared without a trace just as her uncle had. Once, they woke up from their journey to the in-between, Story and her friends began to learn of where they were and why, as well as where they would be going. Sandeen, the goddess that summoned the three to the in-between, sent Story to the Chamber of Dreams to recall all she had forgotten. Turns out she wasn’t just dreaming. When Story slept, she would enter another world, Tressla.
Now Tressla is in danger of being destroyed by Brink who plans to use Story’s abilities to combine the real world and the fairytale world. All fairytales and fairytale creatures would be lost forever. It is Story’s destiny to save both worlds.
Will she be able to believe in herself again in order to save both worlds from destruction?
Fractured Dream was a delight. There was some confusion at the beginning of the story, but it all panned out eventually. The author did a fantastic job of combining the real world characters with the in-between and Tressla. The story was so well written that it is easy to believe that these places actually truly exist. The book is very long, and very detailed. There is a backstory to everything that is brought into the book, which helps to understand why things are occurring as they are.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that enjoys fairytale creatures and humans living in the same worlds. I think the book will leaving you wishing for a part of Story’s life in your own as it has me.
Bliss, the Thumbelina is my favorite character. She is quite snarky and always giving the non-believing Adam grief over his inability to conceive the truth even when it’s right in front of him.
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