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Olive Kennedy, Fairy World M.D. #1
Dreamthief
Visiting Faythander is a nasty business. Forget the fairies and unicorns, most people come back with lost memories and mental problems. Olive Kennedy knows. She's the therapist who treats patients suffering from Faythander's side effects. Despite her empty bank account, she takes pride in her job as Houston’s only Fairy World medical doctor. She's never failed to cure a client—until now.
Traveling back to Faythander wasn't on Olive's to-do list. But she has no choice. The fate of both Earth and Fairy depends on her ability to stop an ancient being called the Dreamthief. To complicate matters, she may be losing her heart to someone who can’t love her in return. Saving the world, she can handle. Falling in love—not so much.
As if battling the forces of evil wasn't difficult enough…
Traveling back to Faythander wasn't on Olive's to-do list. But she has no choice. The fate of both Earth and Fairy depends on her ability to stop an ancient being called the Dreamthief. To complicate matters, she may be losing her heart to someone who can’t love her in return. Saving the world, she can handle. Falling in love—not so much.
As if battling the forces of evil wasn't difficult enough…
318 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
656 people are currently reading
2838 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Grantham
37 books455 followersTamara Grantham is the award-winning author of more than half a dozen books and novellas, including the Olive Kennedy: Fairy World MD series, the Twisted Ever After trilogy, and the Shine novellas. Dreamthief, the first book of her Fairy World MD series, won first place for fantasy in INDIEFAB’S Book of the Year Awards, a RONE award for best New Adult Romance, and is a #1 bestseller on Amazon with over 200 reviews.
Tamara holds a Bachelor’s degree in English. She has been a featured speaker at the Rose State Writing Conference and has been a panelist at Comic Con Wizard World speaking on the topic of female leads. For her first published project, she collaborated with New York-Times bestselling author, William Bernhardt, in writing the Shine series.
Born and raised in Texas, Tamara now lives with her husband and five children in Wichita, Kansas. She rarely has any free time, but when the stars align and she gets a moment to relax, she enjoys reading fantasy novels, taking nature walks, and watching every Star Wars or Star Trek movie ever made. You can find her online at www.TamaraGrantham.com.
Tamara holds a Bachelor’s degree in English. She has been a featured speaker at the Rose State Writing Conference and has been a panelist at Comic Con Wizard World speaking on the topic of female leads. For her first published project, she collaborated with New York-Times bestselling author, William Bernhardt, in writing the Shine series.
Born and raised in Texas, Tamara now lives with her husband and five children in Wichita, Kansas. She rarely has any free time, but when the stars align and she gets a moment to relax, she enjoys reading fantasy novels, taking nature walks, and watching every Star Wars or Star Trek movie ever made. You can find her online at www.TamaraGrantham.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
August 27, 2015
I recieved a free digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Dreamthief, by Tamara Grantham, is the first-person, plot-driven story of Olive Kennedy. She’s a therapist who specializes in helping people who have traveled to a faerie otherworld cope with the emotional trauma it brings. Why is she so (uncannily) good at it? Olive is half-human, half-elf.
To be honest, there a lot of things about this book that turned me off. There is a lot of set-up in the beginning which seems unnecessary, especially since the majority of “exposition” is done directly given to us via Olive’s internal voice rather than indirectly shared through subtle description. Olive even has names for her segmented inner voices – both male – which I didn’t feel was that clever or needed. Why does Albert Einstein or Bill Clinton have to tell you something about the situation? Just…why?
Much of the emotion is announced by the characters rather than conveyed through expressions, actions, or other means.
The plot is somewhat predictable, but in a comforting rather than jarring way. Like I said, this is very cotton-candy.
Once I got passed the first third of the book, I really wanted to like it more. The concept is interesting, but the execution is lacking. Wanting to know what was going to happen next kept me going even when the writing was sub-par. Grantham is better at writing action, I guess – less time for Olive’s mind to wander.
And it wanders. A lot. A horrible thing is happening to your godson, who you really should have visited more often, Olive! You must act now! Only…sure, I’ll listen to you tell me about how cool your classic car is. Or gaze longingly at that guy. Or think about whatever other random thing has flitted into your brain. Why not?
It ends on a cliffhanger of sorts – like in many fantasy series, our protagonist finds out she has some Ultimate Destiny, which we have to read at least two more books to find out about. Which I probably will. Because, dangit, I need to know how the bad movie ends!
As a “alternate fantasy reality” book goes, it’s pretty cotton-candy-fluffy. If you don’t care about the whole “through the looking-glass” (literally) trope, there are other fantasy realm YA books and series that have equally intriguing concepts and way better writing. Queen of the Tearling, Graceling, even The Girl of Fire and Thorns all have a much higher quality of craftsmanship, and Fire and Thorns is still pretty fluffy.
2/5 because I'll read the rest of the series to find out what happens.
Dreamthief, by Tamara Grantham, is the first-person, plot-driven story of Olive Kennedy. She’s a therapist who specializes in helping people who have traveled to a faerie otherworld cope with the emotional trauma it brings. Why is she so (uncannily) good at it? Olive is half-human, half-elf.
To be honest, there a lot of things about this book that turned me off. There is a lot of set-up in the beginning which seems unnecessary, especially since the majority of “exposition” is done directly given to us via Olive’s internal voice rather than indirectly shared through subtle description. Olive even has names for her segmented inner voices – both male – which I didn’t feel was that clever or needed. Why does Albert Einstein or Bill Clinton have to tell you something about the situation? Just…why?
Much of the emotion is announced by the characters rather than conveyed through expressions, actions, or other means.
The plot is somewhat predictable, but in a comforting rather than jarring way. Like I said, this is very cotton-candy.
Once I got passed the first third of the book, I really wanted to like it more. The concept is interesting, but the execution is lacking. Wanting to know what was going to happen next kept me going even when the writing was sub-par. Grantham is better at writing action, I guess – less time for Olive’s mind to wander.
And it wanders. A lot. A horrible thing is happening to your godson, who you really should have visited more often, Olive! You must act now! Only…sure, I’ll listen to you tell me about how cool your classic car is. Or gaze longingly at that guy. Or think about whatever other random thing has flitted into your brain. Why not?
It ends on a cliffhanger of sorts – like in many fantasy series, our protagonist finds out she has some Ultimate Destiny, which we have to read at least two more books to find out about. Which I probably will. Because, dangit, I need to know how the bad movie ends!
As a “alternate fantasy reality” book goes, it’s pretty cotton-candy-fluffy. If you don’t care about the whole “through the looking-glass” (literally) trope, there are other fantasy realm YA books and series that have equally intriguing concepts and way better writing. Queen of the Tearling, Graceling, even The Girl of Fire and Thorns all have a much higher quality of craftsmanship, and Fire and Thorns is still pretty fluffy.
2/5 because I'll read the rest of the series to find out what happens.
October 1, 2015
Everyone has a vague understanding of fairytale lore. Whether it is of fairies, elves, dwarfs, or those like them, tales of these creatures has permeated our literature for centuries. These stories have always been dismissed simply as works of a superb imagination. So having the world that we know, and the world we dream of intersect, has always been unfathomable.
Until now.
Olive is what Faythander, an enchanted land of sorts, would classify as a “half-breed”. Being born of both elven and human decent, Olive is the only being with the cognition of both realms. While it is possible for the inhabitants of one realm to cross into the next, they cannot carry their memories back with them to the land of their origin. Usually one visits the other realm while in their sleep or as a small child. Unlike everyone else, Olive is not only able to cross over from one kingdom to the next when she wants through her magic mirror, she can carry her memories from each plane with her. So when catastrophe strikes and the link to Earth Kingdom and Faythander is a huge link to the problem, it falls to Olive and Olive alone to save both realms from utter disaster.
Along her quest, Olive encounters many unique characters. The Sky King, the dragon that raised her and her elven father were already fixtures in her life. But she also came across many new persons, including the crowned prince of the Wults, who are the descendants of the Vikings and now reside in Faythander. Each of these characters is an integral piece of a mosterous puzzle that demands to be solved. Without even one of them the task at hand would be impossible, dooming them to a fate much worse than death.
This story is full of originality. From the fanciful creatures to the lands they inhabit, each detail is perfectly planned to serve the purpose of the plot. The intricacy with which the tale is weaved is stunning, and that mastery does not go unnoticed by the reader.
Tamara Grantham has penned and exquisite work that is just as unique as her characters. The way she combines the different factions of Faythander and describes the reality in which they exist in intriguing. She has successfully combined fanciful beings that have never been paired together before, and the result is a story that will stick with you far after the final page is turned.
There are so many components to this story, and at times I was worried that some details would go unresolved as there were so many occurrences of importance. I was thrilled to find that not only where each of these details addressed, but they were resolved in the most unpredictable of ways. A feat of this magnitude is quite impressive, and one that does not happen often. Grantham should be thrilled with what she has accomplished and continue along this path of elite storytelling.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. Everything about this book was so imaginative and it makes me wish I could peek into Grantham’s mind. I have not been so anxious for the next book to be released in a series of this genre in a very long time.
Until now.
Olive is what Faythander, an enchanted land of sorts, would classify as a “half-breed”. Being born of both elven and human decent, Olive is the only being with the cognition of both realms. While it is possible for the inhabitants of one realm to cross into the next, they cannot carry their memories back with them to the land of their origin. Usually one visits the other realm while in their sleep or as a small child. Unlike everyone else, Olive is not only able to cross over from one kingdom to the next when she wants through her magic mirror, she can carry her memories from each plane with her. So when catastrophe strikes and the link to Earth Kingdom and Faythander is a huge link to the problem, it falls to Olive and Olive alone to save both realms from utter disaster.
Along her quest, Olive encounters many unique characters. The Sky King, the dragon that raised her and her elven father were already fixtures in her life. But she also came across many new persons, including the crowned prince of the Wults, who are the descendants of the Vikings and now reside in Faythander. Each of these characters is an integral piece of a mosterous puzzle that demands to be solved. Without even one of them the task at hand would be impossible, dooming them to a fate much worse than death.
This story is full of originality. From the fanciful creatures to the lands they inhabit, each detail is perfectly planned to serve the purpose of the plot. The intricacy with which the tale is weaved is stunning, and that mastery does not go unnoticed by the reader.
Tamara Grantham has penned and exquisite work that is just as unique as her characters. The way she combines the different factions of Faythander and describes the reality in which they exist in intriguing. She has successfully combined fanciful beings that have never been paired together before, and the result is a story that will stick with you far after the final page is turned.
There are so many components to this story, and at times I was worried that some details would go unresolved as there were so many occurrences of importance. I was thrilled to find that not only where each of these details addressed, but they were resolved in the most unpredictable of ways. A feat of this magnitude is quite impressive, and one that does not happen often. Grantham should be thrilled with what she has accomplished and continue along this path of elite storytelling.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. Everything about this book was so imaginative and it makes me wish I could peek into Grantham’s mind. I have not been so anxious for the next book to be released in a series of this genre in a very long time.
July 28, 2015
I started off with really getting into the book, but I felt at times that it was a little long and drawn out when I read it the first time around, and I thought I should read it again and so I did. Yes, there were some drawn out parts but I overlooked them because the action that took place made the book extremely interesting and addicting. I felt that the characters in the story were strong and the story-line was awesome. Like I said, the action did keep me in suspense. I loved the main character in the story. She was courageous and I was drawn to her straight from the beginning. I absolutely loved how the story started out. As a matter of fact the beginning is what sucked me into this twisted world of Faythander. The other characters in the story were awesome too. I absolutely loved how the character was able to help the patients in the beginning. I laughed, cried, and made me mad at times in this story, like the character could even get a break. I also thought that the story was predictable and I had some of it figured out before I even finished the book. This author did a fantastic job of writing the story all in all and I really want to read it a third time, but I know I need to move on. It is well written and a story I won't forget anytime soon. It is a MUST READ story and I highly recommend it.
The author has a mystical and magical way of luring you into the story and keeping you from wanting to put the book down despite the drawn out parts. All in all, it’s a fun read.
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
The author has a mystical and magical way of luring you into the story and keeping you from wanting to put the book down despite the drawn out parts. All in all, it’s a fun read.
The author provided me with a digital ARC copy of the book for review purposes only. No remuneration was exchanged.
September 25, 2015
To put it simply, Dreamthief is fun. The voice of the narrator and exchanges between characters were snarky, sarcastic, and full of wit. I absolutely adored it.
Summary:
Olive Kennedy doesn't make a lot of money as the only Fairy Wold psychiatrist, but she helps people. Repressed memories of Faythander are her specialty, and she takes pride in helping those who were failed by everything else.
Yet, it is a painful truth that she cannot help everyone. Kids, in particular, are not yet ready to face what has been repressed. But what if the problem isn't repressed, but ongoing?
Olive faces this very reality when dark magic steals the soul of her godson, leaving his body as a withering shell. And he's not the only one. Now, Olive will team up with a viking-esque Wult named Kull to save her godson … in exchange for a dinosaur's skeleton. No one said this was going to be easy.
Initial Thoughts:
I had no idea what I was getting into with Dreamthief but it was worth all the hours of neglecting everything else. And for the record: reviewing something you liked is infinitely harder and takes twice as long to do because you're trying trying to put into words everything that made you like something that much. That is what I'm attempting to do here, and it's why it has taken me so long to put it into words.
Characters:
I loved Olive. She was hands-down the most real character in the entire book. Her emotions and thought process (okay, we're exempting Bill Clinton and Albert Einstein's voices, because that was just weird) were on par with what a woman in her situation would be feeling/thinking. For the most part, her goals were in the forefront of her mind and very rarely were there situations where you felt like shouting 'really?' at her.
Kull was also a bit of a treat. His traits are nailed down in the terms: proud, cocky, and snarky. In that order. He doesn't see a threat as anything more than an obstacle. There's a determination in him that makes getting a job done a little bit easier, as long as there's compensation to go with the risk-taking he's doing. Again, he really helped make this book the fun it was.
There were several other characters that added to the dynamics of all of this, but these two are truly memorable.
Plot & Setting:
Faythander was amazing! Not overly detailed to the point it got boring; none of the description took away from the action in the moment, and it felt like a completely different world. As far as setting goes, I don't think you could ask for a better balance of the right elements. It was thought out and it was an experience to be there.
As far as the plot goes, it was--in its own way--believable. Everything Olive goes through is in direct relation to the overall arch of the story, so you never forget what is at stake and what needs to be done in response. There were times where it seemed a little scattered, what with all of the traveling and different locations it takes us to, but it all wrapped up in a neat way at the end.
And I have to say this to the author: Thank you so much for a real ending! I know that this is part of a series, but I'm grateful to have one part of the story wrap up at the end of a book, instead of hitting us with a cliffhanger that is really just the end of 'part one'. So thank you for that.
Writing Style:
The book is told in first person perspective, so everything was focused on the narrator. That was a good choice. Because it's told with Olive's snarky humor and brass-tacks directness, we're given a fuller image than we might otherwise have gotten. So for being a character oriented FPP novel, the writing style is spot on. You really have to be in tune with your MC in order to pull this off, and Tamara Grantham did.
Overall Opinion:
Dreamthief isn't a heavy-hitter. There's no big agenda to make you think. It's a story about a woman who has all sorts of personal issues as well as the responsibility to change the world. She also gets to meet a hulking cute guy along the way who is just as snarky as she is. Again, this novel is very fun and very enjoyable. A reread is definitely in its future for me.
December 30, 2018
Could have benefited from a brutal editor. 70% of this book is unnecessary waffle, somewhere underneath all the padding is an interesting take on fairies
November 19, 2017
1.5 stars
This book failed to keep my attention and I couldn’t continue.
DNF
This book failed to keep my attention and I couldn’t continue.
DNF
October 23, 2018
Great start to a series
This is not generally my genre of choice, but I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and world-building throughout this book. The premise was interesting, and fans of both urban fantasy and classic fantasy will like the read.
This is not generally my genre of choice, but I thoroughly enjoyed the character development and world-building throughout this book. The premise was interesting, and fans of both urban fantasy and classic fantasy will like the read.
July 10, 2016
Oh, I finished this days ago. I just suck at remembering to toss up my reviews lately!
This was such a great read. I was excited while reading and need to get the rest in the series. I love the idea of the parallel universes and the explanation as to why, since the beginning of human time and across various cultures, we have similar stories of fairies and dragons and elves and mythical creatures. Because we were all once one!
Olive is a halfsie who doesn't lose her memory when she traverses between the two realms. She helps humans who cannot be helped by psychiatrists because their problem basically stems from seeing Faythander.
With politics, romance, intrigue, this novel held my attention and made me want more. Spellweaver and Bloodthorn are now on deck!
This was such a great read. I was excited while reading and need to get the rest in the series. I love the idea of the parallel universes and the explanation as to why, since the beginning of human time and across various cultures, we have similar stories of fairies and dragons and elves and mythical creatures. Because we were all once one!
Olive is a halfsie who doesn't lose her memory when she traverses between the two realms. She helps humans who cannot be helped by psychiatrists because their problem basically stems from seeing Faythander.
With politics, romance, intrigue, this novel held my attention and made me want more. Spellweaver and Bloodthorn are now on deck!
March 1, 2017
Wow. This was not. This just. I felt like I was reading REALLY BAD early 2000s FictionPress fantasy. I could only get 14% (fourTEEN) of the way into this. I can't force it any further. I hope the book eventually gets past the 'explain all the things' phase, but SHOW NOT TELL please. It did sound like an interesting premise, but honestly the world building (that I was told about in the 14% I read) seemed poor and not that great. It was just flat. And then oh surprise dragon that is also a king and also brought me up and also is very wise. Pfft.
**this was a free download on Amazon and I regret so many things. I possibly would have enjoyed this when I was 12.
**this was a free download on Amazon and I regret so many things. I possibly would have enjoyed this when I was 12.
December 17, 2018
Miscategorized YA
For a YA fluff, not bad. Basic sentence structure, no real developement of characters, most likely be drawn out across the entire series. Wish amazon would require authors to list their books in the right sections, or allow readers to pick genres to exclude in search results.
For a YA fluff, not bad. Basic sentence structure, no real developement of characters, most likely be drawn out across the entire series. Wish amazon would require authors to list their books in the right sections, or allow readers to pick genres to exclude in search results.
August 31, 2017
Not bad, but I lost interest pretty quickly and I stopped reading.
November 15, 2017
Olive Kennedy is a therapist of sorts that deals with humans who've been touched by the magic of Faythander. Every human who goes there, comes back changed and it's up to Olive to find out which creature took them. When she is called to her godsons side, she realises that things are serious, add in the dreams she is having and she knows she has to go to Faythander and see what's happening.
This was a good read. Plot wise, I liked the idea of Faythander and the various creatures in there. The world building was done well and kept my attention. I just found that the story dragged at times! I also didn't particularly like the love story in this. It was eye rollingly annoying and didn't really add anything to the plot.
Character wise, I liked Olive. I liked that she knew her powers and basically what she was capable of. I liked that she was so sweet and focused on helping people, especially her godson. The rest of the characters were well written and developed as well.
In all, I'm glad I read this because it's been on my wishlist for a while. I might continue on with the series, because I would like to see more from Olive. We shall see!!!
Gillian Rose, has what I call, a very sweet voice, one perfect for a young adult. She was clear and easy to listen to, but she needs to work on her inflections and cadences a bit more. I found she read at the same pace all the time, where as she could have ramped up the tension a bit by putting emotion behind her words.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
This was a good read. Plot wise, I liked the idea of Faythander and the various creatures in there. The world building was done well and kept my attention. I just found that the story dragged at times! I also didn't particularly like the love story in this. It was eye rollingly annoying and didn't really add anything to the plot.
Character wise, I liked Olive. I liked that she knew her powers and basically what she was capable of. I liked that she was so sweet and focused on helping people, especially her godson. The rest of the characters were well written and developed as well.
In all, I'm glad I read this because it's been on my wishlist for a while. I might continue on with the series, because I would like to see more from Olive. We shall see!!!
Gillian Rose, has what I call, a very sweet voice, one perfect for a young adult. She was clear and easy to listen to, but she needs to work on her inflections and cadences a bit more. I found she read at the same pace all the time, where as she could have ramped up the tension a bit by putting emotion behind her words.
I was voluntarily provided this audiobook for free from the author, narrator, or publisher. This in no way affected nor influenced my thoughts.
February 21, 2016
2 REVIEWS
REVIEWER: MOONWALKER
5.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
As the only Fairy world medical doctor in existence, Olive Kennedy gets some pretty interesting patients to deal with. Most of the ones that are referred to her are the ones that spent time in Faythander as a result of overwhelming emotional, physical, or mental stress in their childhood. Their memory of it doesn't return to this world with them, hence the sense of loss, and other mental side effects. When Olive's godson goes into a coma she determines that the root of the problem lies in Faythander, where the boy's spirit is lost – possibly to an entity called the dreamthief. When she makes the journey to rescue him she finds a deep well of strength and courage within herself. The Prince of the Wults and his sister go with her. Along the way they solve some old mysteries and face great danger. She learns how to fight, and how to love, even if she won't accept the possibility. This story has a a lot of strong and capable female characters that are not dependent on men, but are willing to accept help when necessary. Olive is a very strong role model for young women who think they can't be strong and still be feminine. Another thing about this story is that it is seriously fun to read. Humour and lighthearted banter are present throughout. I really liked this book. I look forward to reading the next one in the series – Spellweaver.
REVIEWER: THE KILLDEER
4.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
I’ve read a number of indie- and self-published books in the last few years, and this one stands out. Anyone can hire an editor to clean up their book, but it doesn’t do much good if it wasn’t a good book to start with, and I’d say this one was worth the investment. The plot is well-paced; the prose is clear and engaging, with a nice sprinkling of humor; the characters are varied and interesting. The world of Faythander is expansive and rich with a variety of more—or less— human-like creatures.
There’s a minimum of predictability. When the main guy enters, there’s no doubt this is going to be a romance, even as heroine Olive’s initial reaction to him is convincingly negative. Not so convincing when, later, the reader is told that Olive has trust issues. I could see that, in her lifestyle and relationships with her parents; but I didn’t see it in her thinking throughout the book. Showing a person’s flaws and/or blind spots is tricky in a first-person narrative such as Dreamthief.
I love how the character of Kull is hot-headed, impulsive, and violent, but also keenly insightful of the characters and motivations of the people around him. He never feels forced or flat.
The villains are thoroughly scary. There is a bit of the good-vs.-evil theme, which I guess most readers like, but I find tedious and superficial. However, there are discoveries along the way about the history of Faythander and its inhabitants (history is important? How interesting . . .), and some of the “evil” characters turn out to be acting from motives that are complex. Looking ahead to the next Faythander book (due to be released in November, 2015), it looks like there might be even more discoveries which will convolute the question of who is good, and who is bad.
I didn’t quite keep up with all the history, but I enjoyed the book enough that I didn’t really care.
Dreamthief is definitely a worthwhile read. I’ll be looking for Book 2 next month.
REVIEWER: MOONWALKER
5.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
As the only Fairy world medical doctor in existence, Olive Kennedy gets some pretty interesting patients to deal with. Most of the ones that are referred to her are the ones that spent time in Faythander as a result of overwhelming emotional, physical, or mental stress in their childhood. Their memory of it doesn't return to this world with them, hence the sense of loss, and other mental side effects. When Olive's godson goes into a coma she determines that the root of the problem lies in Faythander, where the boy's spirit is lost – possibly to an entity called the dreamthief. When she makes the journey to rescue him she finds a deep well of strength and courage within herself. The Prince of the Wults and his sister go with her. Along the way they solve some old mysteries and face great danger. She learns how to fight, and how to love, even if she won't accept the possibility. This story has a a lot of strong and capable female characters that are not dependent on men, but are willing to accept help when necessary. Olive is a very strong role model for young women who think they can't be strong and still be feminine. Another thing about this story is that it is seriously fun to read. Humour and lighthearted banter are present throughout. I really liked this book. I look forward to reading the next one in the series – Spellweaver.
REVIEWER: THE KILLDEER
4.0 ON THE MASQ SCALE
I’ve read a number of indie- and self-published books in the last few years, and this one stands out. Anyone can hire an editor to clean up their book, but it doesn’t do much good if it wasn’t a good book to start with, and I’d say this one was worth the investment. The plot is well-paced; the prose is clear and engaging, with a nice sprinkling of humor; the characters are varied and interesting. The world of Faythander is expansive and rich with a variety of more—or less— human-like creatures.
There’s a minimum of predictability. When the main guy enters, there’s no doubt this is going to be a romance, even as heroine Olive’s initial reaction to him is convincingly negative. Not so convincing when, later, the reader is told that Olive has trust issues. I could see that, in her lifestyle and relationships with her parents; but I didn’t see it in her thinking throughout the book. Showing a person’s flaws and/or blind spots is tricky in a first-person narrative such as Dreamthief.
I love how the character of Kull is hot-headed, impulsive, and violent, but also keenly insightful of the characters and motivations of the people around him. He never feels forced or flat.
The villains are thoroughly scary. There is a bit of the good-vs.-evil theme, which I guess most readers like, but I find tedious and superficial. However, there are discoveries along the way about the history of Faythander and its inhabitants (history is important? How interesting . . .), and some of the “evil” characters turn out to be acting from motives that are complex. Looking ahead to the next Faythander book (due to be released in November, 2015), it looks like there might be even more discoveries which will convolute the question of who is good, and who is bad.
I didn’t quite keep up with all the history, but I enjoyed the book enough that I didn’t really care.
Dreamthief is definitely a worthwhile read. I’ll be looking for Book 2 next month.
June 16, 2017
This was an excellent and captivating fantasy book!
Olive Kennedy has lived half her life in the magical world of Faythander that is inhabited by dragons, elves, wults, pixies and goblins. Now she lives in Earth Kingdom trying to fit in until her godson gets ill and she is thrust back into Faythander.
Dreamthief was a combination on fantasy, magic, action, romance and a bit of humor. We were introduced to a lot of Faythander's unique population and it's beautiful world.
The characters were great. I really liked Kull's and Heidel's bravery, Fan'twar's loyalty to Olive, and of course Olive's love for her godson!
With a well written plot and a lot of mystery, Dreamthief was an amazing read and I am looking forward to following Olive in her next adventure! I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy, action and magic.
Olive Kennedy has lived half her life in the magical world of Faythander that is inhabited by dragons, elves, wults, pixies and goblins. Now she lives in Earth Kingdom trying to fit in until her godson gets ill and she is thrust back into Faythander.
Dreamthief was a combination on fantasy, magic, action, romance and a bit of humor. We were introduced to a lot of Faythander's unique population and it's beautiful world.
The characters were great. I really liked Kull's and Heidel's bravery, Fan'twar's loyalty to Olive, and of course Olive's love for her godson!
With a well written plot and a lot of mystery, Dreamthief was an amazing read and I am looking forward to following Olive in her next adventure! I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy, action and magic.
September 22, 2025
Originally Posted on Bewitched Reader: https://bewitchedreader.wordpress.com...
Fantasy novels have always been my favorite genre, followed closely by romance, but I can't stand cliché fantasies. Dreamthief puts a unique twist on the idea of pixies, elves, goblins, dragons, and wults. Normally, I imagine pixies as something akin to Tinkerbell. Not 7 foot tall animalistic warriors with razor sharp teeth. The entire concept and history of Faythander and the wult race was unique and refreshing.
The storyline itself was not predictable and kept me guessing at who could possibly be behind the evil plot. I relished the combination of adventure and romance within Dreamthief and look forward to reading more of the Fairy World series.
Fantasy novels have always been my favorite genre, followed closely by romance, but I can't stand cliché fantasies. Dreamthief puts a unique twist on the idea of pixies, elves, goblins, dragons, and wults. Normally, I imagine pixies as something akin to Tinkerbell. Not 7 foot tall animalistic warriors with razor sharp teeth. The entire concept and history of Faythander and the wult race was unique and refreshing.
The storyline itself was not predictable and kept me guessing at who could possibly be behind the evil plot. I relished the combination of adventure and romance within Dreamthief and look forward to reading more of the Fairy World series.
March 3, 2016
*****3.5*****
I liked the book. It was kind of slow in the beginning but I got hooked to plot line from the middle as things started to get more serious.
My fav character is Kull, he has luck going on with him or he would have been goner.
At some parts it felt a little slow and drawn out but it could be glossed over. And the romantic feeling of Olivia felt little too fast, I mean I like him but yeah. But I liked how it ended and has left me wanting to know more of what is Olive going to face and a lot more answers to some questions.
Got the ebook in exchange of an honest review.
I liked the book. It was kind of slow in the beginning but I got hooked to plot line from the middle as things started to get more serious.
My fav character is Kull, he has luck going on with him or he would have been goner.
At some parts it felt a little slow and drawn out but it could be glossed over. And the romantic feeling of Olivia felt little too fast, I mean I like him but yeah. But I liked how it ended and has left me wanting to know more of what is Olive going to face and a lot more answers to some questions.
Got the ebook in exchange of an honest review.
November 26, 2015
Olive (half human/half elf) is a head strong woman determined to save her godson. Her journey unleashes a suspense filled story that I didn’t want to put down. You are introduced to numerous characters that cross Olive’s path. Are they good or bad? It is difficult to determine. The author keeps you guessing until the very end.
December 31, 2018
Good read
I enjoyed the detailed writing and how the storyline brought me along with the characters and their adventures. Well written!!
I enjoyed the detailed writing and how the storyline brought me along with the characters and their adventures. Well written!!
January 23, 2017
See my full review of this title on my book blog, So Few Books, at: https://sofewbooks.blogspot.com/2017/...!
This was a thoroughly delightful and rather extraordinary tale about a half-elf half-human gal named Olive who just happens to be Houston’s only Fairy World medical doctor. The world-building that occurs in this novel is very adept, both in terms of Olive’s personal sphere and the worlds around her at large.
Olive is the kind of kick-butt heroine that you can really enjoy rooting for, even though she is at times somewhat dense about certain things, and definitely has her own issues to deal with. One of the things I disliked most about the book was the two alternate ego characters of Bill Clinton and Albert Einstein who supposedly occupied her mind. Their inclusion was sporadic at best, and seemed to add nothing much productive to the narrative.
There were many other characters that I enjoyed as well, from Olive’s dragon foster father Fan’twar to the headstrong yet handsome Kull to his sister the equally headstrong Heidel.
The plot was a very different and creative take on the usual fairy world theme. There were several twists and turns, false starts and wrong deductions that kept you guessing what was really going on through most of the story. The tale ended on a very satisfying note, but with significant items to still be worked out, to the extent that you know there will be additional volumes in the series. Hopefully, all of them will prove as satisfying and entertaining as this first installment.
This was a thoroughly delightful and rather extraordinary tale about a half-elf half-human gal named Olive who just happens to be Houston’s only Fairy World medical doctor. The world-building that occurs in this novel is very adept, both in terms of Olive’s personal sphere and the worlds around her at large.
Olive is the kind of kick-butt heroine that you can really enjoy rooting for, even though she is at times somewhat dense about certain things, and definitely has her own issues to deal with. One of the things I disliked most about the book was the two alternate ego characters of Bill Clinton and Albert Einstein who supposedly occupied her mind. Their inclusion was sporadic at best, and seemed to add nothing much productive to the narrative.
There were many other characters that I enjoyed as well, from Olive’s dragon foster father Fan’twar to the headstrong yet handsome Kull to his sister the equally headstrong Heidel.
The plot was a very different and creative take on the usual fairy world theme. There were several twists and turns, false starts and wrong deductions that kept you guessing what was really going on through most of the story. The tale ended on a very satisfying note, but with significant items to still be worked out, to the extent that you know there will be additional volumes in the series. Hopefully, all of them will prove as satisfying and entertaining as this first installment.
October 14, 2018
A book that defines new world
I lo ed this book....the first page I want sure about I was afraid of that first person writing alot of books like that come out more like a diary and are hard to read but this was awesome! Well written.
I absolutely loved the fact that I was questioning the plot twists all the way through. One of my bad is that I useally figure out the killer or bad guy halfway through but this book I did not. I enjoyed the characters and the world the author set for magic. Super creative and refreshing....the twisting of what we pretend elves goblins and pixies really are. Olive is however half human so it fits the hypocritical theme of a therapeutic savior...o e who saves others but cannot seem to save herself....I love that.
Super stoked to read more on this series....in fact going to purchase tight after this is posted.
Also in recommendations I give this a five and top ten reading list....you wo t regret it!
I lo ed this book....the first page I want sure about I was afraid of that first person writing alot of books like that come out more like a diary and are hard to read but this was awesome! Well written.
I absolutely loved the fact that I was questioning the plot twists all the way through. One of my bad is that I useally figure out the killer or bad guy halfway through but this book I did not. I enjoyed the characters and the world the author set for magic. Super creative and refreshing....the twisting of what we pretend elves goblins and pixies really are. Olive is however half human so it fits the hypocritical theme of a therapeutic savior...o e who saves others but cannot seem to save herself....I love that.
Super stoked to read more on this series....in fact going to purchase tight after this is posted.
Also in recommendations I give this a five and top ten reading list....you wo t regret it!
December 17, 2025
Dreamthief was such a refreshing take on urban fantasy. I loved how it flips the usual fairy-tale idea on its head this isn’t a sparkly, whimsical fairy world, but something much darker and more complicated. Olive is a great main character: smart, grounded, and easy to root for, especially given her job helping people damaged by their encounters with the fairy realm. The concept of a therapist being forced back into that world felt original and worked really well.
The story blends fantasy, danger, and romance smoothly, without any one element overpowering the others. The emotional tension especially Olive falling for someone who may not be able to love her back added depth and made the stakes feel personal, not just world-ending. The pacing kept me turning pages, and the writing pulled me in quickly. Overall, it’s imaginative, well-written, and a solid choice for anyone who enjoys darker urban fantasy with heart.
The story blends fantasy, danger, and romance smoothly, without any one element overpowering the others. The emotional tension especially Olive falling for someone who may not be able to love her back added depth and made the stakes feel personal, not just world-ending. The pacing kept me turning pages, and the writing pulled me in quickly. Overall, it’s imaginative, well-written, and a solid choice for anyone who enjoys darker urban fantasy with heart.
July 8, 2019
Genre: Urban fantasy, high fantasy, clean romance
Note: 1st person POV
Olive is half elf, half human, raised by the king of dragons in the fairy realm, Faythander. On Earth, she is a psychologist, helping the hopeless. When her Godson falls into a magic sleep, she returns to Faythander to hunt down the Dreamthief. Along the way she meets Kull, a viking warrior, who will help her, for a price. Can she rescue her Godson before it is too late?
Very enjoyable. The MC Olive is very accessable, she has powers but also serious abandonment issues. The world of Faythander is interesting, and a nice departure from the derth of urban fantasies that focus on the Seelie/Unseelie courts for their mythology. The book has a satisfying conclusion that sets up for book 2 without being an annoying cliff hanger.
Note: 1st person POV
Olive is half elf, half human, raised by the king of dragons in the fairy realm, Faythander. On Earth, she is a psychologist, helping the hopeless. When her Godson falls into a magic sleep, she returns to Faythander to hunt down the Dreamthief. Along the way she meets Kull, a viking warrior, who will help her, for a price. Can she rescue her Godson before it is too late?
Very enjoyable. The MC Olive is very accessable, she has powers but also serious abandonment issues. The world of Faythander is interesting, and a nice departure from the derth of urban fantasies that focus on the Seelie/Unseelie courts for their mythology. The book has a satisfying conclusion that sets up for book 2 without being an annoying cliff hanger.
September 27, 2019
Intricate Fantasy World
Tamara Grantham presents an exceptional story of worlds that clash and characters that include Goblins and Fae and many of her own creation in Dreamthief: an Urban Fantasy Fairy Tale (Fairy World MD book 1.)
I love reading stories that pull you into their world, so much that you feel you are on a journey with them. Olive is on an adventure to save someone very close to her heart. We watch and feel her agony and accomplishments and attempt to understand the twists and turns in this fabulous story.
Teens and adults alike with enjoy spending time in Tamara’s world!
I finished with a feeling of accomplishment, and can’t wait to continue the journey with book 2: Spellweaver.
Tamara Grantham presents an exceptional story of worlds that clash and characters that include Goblins and Fae and many of her own creation in Dreamthief: an Urban Fantasy Fairy Tale (Fairy World MD book 1.)
I love reading stories that pull you into their world, so much that you feel you are on a journey with them. Olive is on an adventure to save someone very close to her heart. We watch and feel her agony and accomplishments and attempt to understand the twists and turns in this fabulous story.
Teens and adults alike with enjoy spending time in Tamara’s world!
I finished with a feeling of accomplishment, and can’t wait to continue the journey with book 2: Spellweaver.
July 4, 2017
I've ruined this by accidentally starting with book #3, and it certainly filled a LOT of holes for me... That said, I enjoyed this more, now the backstory is filling in. I'm even less sure why the heroine wants anything to do with Earth, though, especially with a tasty Viking as a lure.
Definitely commits you to the series, I'm afraid. I don't see these as standalone stories unless you don't mind gaps and unresolved cliffhangers. I don't mind that with a story well done, though, especially if the author is kind enough to offer them all up in exchange for reviews. This has become something I would've paid to find out how it ends.
Definitely commits you to the series, I'm afraid. I don't see these as standalone stories unless you don't mind gaps and unresolved cliffhangers. I don't mind that with a story well done, though, especially if the author is kind enough to offer them all up in exchange for reviews. This has become something I would've paid to find out how it ends.
June 30, 2022
I have read all but one book in this series, i really love these books there is some world building and there could have been a lot more of it but what it does build on is good, i thought the book flowed really well, i like that although Olive is the Hero she is uncertain of herself and knows she needs her friends and allies, i hate when books write a hero who is so overpowered and you think whats the point, but this is different Olive is written really well as a character and she develops over the course of the books, and thereis a great slew of side characters that are slso great for me it's one of the best young adult series i've read.
October 24, 2017
I received this audiobook free for an honest review. Boy, am I glad I received this audiobook. It is full of intrigue, suspense, magic and a world of strange beings. You need to pay close attention because this is a world of mystery and fantasy. There is a reason for everything, only you don't know that at first. Tamara has an ingenious, creative mind. Her imagination is awesome and she brings you in to it. The narration was good as well. Loved this book. Can't wait to see where it goes from here.
November 6, 2017
My review is based on the Audiobook. DreamThief is Book one in the series and the Author does a fatastic job of laying the groundwork. The world building is so vivid. All of the different species and their abilities along with the perfectly paced story keeps you captivated the entire story. Gillian Rose did an amazing job at bringing this story to life with distinct and easy to understand narration. I look forward to more from this Author & narrator. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review
May 28, 2018
Dreamthief tells of Olive’s quest to save her godson’s dream soul from the fairy realm. As a half human/half elf Olive can travel between the human world and Faythander, the fairy world. Ms. Grantham’s world building is interesting, although I hope she goes into more detail in future installments. In Faythander Olive is joined by a variety of companions in her search, most notably the Wult prince Kull. There is plenty of action (including sword fighting!), mystery, political intrigue and, of course, romance.
April 8, 2022
Rounding up to 3 stars for Kull and Kull only. Love my skullsplitter king.
The writing and the characters really did capture my attention, which kept me going! but unfortunately the world building wasn't really solid, which left me slightly confused but mostly just indifferent to the politics and adventure taking place in the world.
Also, RIP Brent. Gone and always forgotten. You will be missed, maybe, but not by Olive, who you have no idea you've lost to Thor's golden retriever twin brother. 💔
The writing and the characters really did capture my attention, which kept me going! but unfortunately the world building wasn't really solid, which left me slightly confused but mostly just indifferent to the politics and adventure taking place in the world.
Also, RIP Brent. Gone and always forgotten. You will be missed, maybe, but not by Olive, who you have no idea you've lost to Thor's golden retriever twin brother. 💔
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