What do you think?
Rate this book
21st Century Bard #2
Midsummer Dreams
Four people. Four messy lives. One night that changes everything.
Emily is obsessed with ending her father’s new relationship – but is blind to the fact that her own is far from perfect.
Dominic has spent so long making other people happy that he’s hardly noticed he’s not happy himself.
Helen has loved the same man, unrequitedly, for ten years. Now she may have to face up to the fact that he will never be hers.
Alex has always played the field. But when he finally meets a girl he wants to commit to, she is just out of his reach.
At a midsummer wedding party, the bonds that tie the four friends together begin to unravel and show them that, sometimes, the sensible choice is not always the right one.
A modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Emily is obsessed with ending her father’s new relationship – but is blind to the fact that her own is far from perfect.
Dominic has spent so long making other people happy that he’s hardly noticed he’s not happy himself.
Helen has loved the same man, unrequitedly, for ten years. Now she may have to face up to the fact that he will never be hers.
Alex has always played the field. But when he finally meets a girl he wants to commit to, she is just out of his reach.
At a midsummer wedding party, the bonds that tie the four friends together begin to unravel and show them that, sometimes, the sensible choice is not always the right one.
A modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.
- GenresRomance
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2015
1 person is currently reading
21 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 29 reviews
January 21, 2016
A whimsical, funny, modern romance inspired by Shakespeare's A Midsummer Nights Dream! The correlation between his characters and those in this novel are evident as is the influence or reinterpretation of his storyline.
I actually really liked this and am excited to go back and try her other Shakespeare inspired novel. I loved how each short chapter was from a different characters perspective so we get to get a little more of their real thoughts and feelings and get to know each of them. All the characters, as humans, have flaws and make bad choices at times. If they didn't we probably wouldn't want to read about them! The setting in academia added interest and kept it from being a worn-out story.
The comic relief was refreshing, especially the midsummer night party! I loved it. The ending was pretty perfect too. An all over feel good book in my opinion with a touch and dab here and there into more serious things.
Recommended to those who like retellings or modern reinterpretations of Shakespeare or other classic authors and enjoy romantic comedies. I don't even think you would have to know the original inspiration in this case, but definitely added more since I did.
** Many thanks to NetGalley & Choc Lit for a copy to read and review**
Note--some crude language and a non-invasive intimate episode included
I actually really liked this and am excited to go back and try her other Shakespeare inspired novel. I loved how each short chapter was from a different characters perspective so we get to get a little more of their real thoughts and feelings and get to know each of them. All the characters, as humans, have flaws and make bad choices at times. If they didn't we probably wouldn't want to read about them! The setting in academia added interest and kept it from being a worn-out story.
The comic relief was refreshing, especially the midsummer night party! I loved it. The ending was pretty perfect too. An all over feel good book in my opinion with a touch and dab here and there into more serious things.
Recommended to those who like retellings or modern reinterpretations of Shakespeare or other classic authors and enjoy romantic comedies. I don't even think you would have to know the original inspiration in this case, but definitely added more since I did.
** Many thanks to NetGalley & Choc Lit for a copy to read and review**
Note--some crude language and a non-invasive intimate episode included
June 23, 2017
I immediately can't like the writing style. These days we aren't supposed to use the overdone dream sequence opening. In the next chapter, we find many sentences ending in prepositions; over, about, away, about, up etc. while all sentences are short. And choppy. And short. Like that.
"She didn’t know who Helen was thinking about. Helen bristled. ‘A nursery for whom?’" So the character understands grammar better than the author? That's new.
"It wasn't nice to be nosy.. It did sound out of character... it wasn't a particularly nice room... It was small and pokey... its slightly wobbly nature... I couldn't stand it at home... I don't even want to think about it. It's horrifying. It's disgusting. It’s horrible... If it’s a holiday romance, it’ll burn out on its own."
All this before I am halfway through the second chapter.
Lose the it.
Get an editor who understands why all the above issues need to be revised and changed. I'm surprised because previously Choc Lit Press has produced excellent works.
The tale is about a young woman whose father comes home from a conference in Verona with a new lady on his arm. The family and friends are immediately down on her because she is a cocktail waitress; as if it was any of their business. I suppose none of them ever took a serving job while they were students? The setting is a stifling middle-class England, several characters working in a university. A male character called Alex is presented as sleeping around with anyone whether he knows their names or not, females I should add. Another male character is called Dom, for Dominic, and the author might consider that this name has quite another meaning. A wedding is planned in Cornwall for Midsummer's eve.
I could not get into this tale at all because the writing kept throwing me out again when I tried to get to know the characters. Some readers might not mind. If you think you would like to try a contemporary retelling of Dream, do; but I'd want a complete edit as I don't consider this book is ready for publication.
I was sent an ARC and this is an unbiased review.
"She didn’t know who Helen was thinking about. Helen bristled. ‘A nursery for whom?’" So the character understands grammar better than the author? That's new.
"It wasn't nice to be nosy.. It did sound out of character... it wasn't a particularly nice room... It was small and pokey... its slightly wobbly nature... I couldn't stand it at home... I don't even want to think about it. It's horrifying. It's disgusting. It’s horrible... If it’s a holiday romance, it’ll burn out on its own."
All this before I am halfway through the second chapter.
Lose the it.
Get an editor who understands why all the above issues need to be revised and changed. I'm surprised because previously Choc Lit Press has produced excellent works.
The tale is about a young woman whose father comes home from a conference in Verona with a new lady on his arm. The family and friends are immediately down on her because she is a cocktail waitress; as if it was any of their business. I suppose none of them ever took a serving job while they were students? The setting is a stifling middle-class England, several characters working in a university. A male character called Alex is presented as sleeping around with anyone whether he knows their names or not, females I should add. Another male character is called Dom, for Dominic, and the author might consider that this name has quite another meaning. A wedding is planned in Cornwall for Midsummer's eve.
I could not get into this tale at all because the writing kept throwing me out again when I tried to get to know the characters. Some readers might not mind. If you think you would like to try a contemporary retelling of Dream, do; but I'd want a complete edit as I don't consider this book is ready for publication.
I was sent an ARC and this is an unbiased review.
June 9, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Emily has always had her father. She lives with him, she works for him. So when Tania enters his life, Emily instantly decides that she cannot stay. While she obsesses over her father’s new relationship, she is unable to see how hers seems to be heading toward a dead end. Dominic is unhappy in a job and life his parents wanted for him that he didn’t want for himself. Helen must realize that the man she loves will never be hers, and change her life that has been put on hold for ten years. Alex, who never thought he’d settled down, is finally realizing he may want more in life. But the girl he has fallen for is already taken.
This Midsummer Night’s Dream retelling is a whirlwind of romance. Each of the characters have lives they’re not happy with, whether they realize it or not, and this book highlights each of their journeys as they come to the realization and try to change. This is my first romance novel and I enjoyed it more than I expected.
I felt that there was a character that everyone could relate to. Emily has always been taken care of by her father and doesn’t quite know how to be on her own. Dominic was pressured into seeking the career his parents wanted for him and has been unhappy ever since. Helen is afraid of change. Alex is afraid to settle down. Tania is running from her past in an effort to change her future.
Personally, I was able to relate to Helen’s character the most. Besides being in love with the same man for ten years, it was almost as if I was reading about myself, and I enjoyed watching her go through the changes to make her life better. I enjoyed watching all of the characters change their lives.
There were a few things I didn’t like about the story, but that’s more about my personal taste than the story itself. I tend to be turned off when there is cheating going on. And Emily’s obsession about Tania without bothering to get to know her bothered me. But like I said, this is more personal preference. It worked well for the story, and it wouldn’t have been the story it was without these elements.
I found this story to be inspiring. As someone who has just graduated and is desperately searching for a job, it was nice to read a story where things did work out for the best, even if it took a little longer. As an impatient person, it’s nice to be reminded that even though sometimes things take time, you just have to be patient and they can still work out of the best.
I give it 3.5/5 stars.
Emily has always had her father. She lives with him, she works for him. So when Tania enters his life, Emily instantly decides that she cannot stay. While she obsesses over her father’s new relationship, she is unable to see how hers seems to be heading toward a dead end. Dominic is unhappy in a job and life his parents wanted for him that he didn’t want for himself. Helen must realize that the man she loves will never be hers, and change her life that has been put on hold for ten years. Alex, who never thought he’d settled down, is finally realizing he may want more in life. But the girl he has fallen for is already taken.
This Midsummer Night’s Dream retelling is a whirlwind of romance. Each of the characters have lives they’re not happy with, whether they realize it or not, and this book highlights each of their journeys as they come to the realization and try to change. This is my first romance novel and I enjoyed it more than I expected.
I felt that there was a character that everyone could relate to. Emily has always been taken care of by her father and doesn’t quite know how to be on her own. Dominic was pressured into seeking the career his parents wanted for him and has been unhappy ever since. Helen is afraid of change. Alex is afraid to settle down. Tania is running from her past in an effort to change her future.
Personally, I was able to relate to Helen’s character the most. Besides being in love with the same man for ten years, it was almost as if I was reading about myself, and I enjoyed watching her go through the changes to make her life better. I enjoyed watching all of the characters change their lives.
There were a few things I didn’t like about the story, but that’s more about my personal taste than the story itself. I tend to be turned off when there is cheating going on. And Emily’s obsession about Tania without bothering to get to know her bothered me. But like I said, this is more personal preference. It worked well for the story, and it wouldn’t have been the story it was without these elements.
I found this story to be inspiring. As someone who has just graduated and is desperately searching for a job, it was nice to read a story where things did work out for the best, even if it took a little longer. As an impatient person, it’s nice to be reminded that even though sometimes things take time, you just have to be patient and they can still work out of the best.
I give it 3.5/5 stars.
May 6, 2016
This is a cute take on Shakespeare’s classic tale from a UK author, thus readers should not be taken aback by the difference in spelling of common words.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
August 27, 2015
A brilliant retelling of the original play - loved it!
February 4, 2018
Having not read Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, I therefore only have a rough idea of the story line. However, this did not impact my enjoyment of Midsummer Dreams – although I likely missed a few homages to the original.
There are several threads to the tale, all focused around one love triangle (or square…?)
Emily likes to feel safe and be taken care of. She works for her father as his assistant and intends to marry one of his university colleagues, Dominic. Life can’t get much safer than that. However, when her father Theo finds love with the younger Tania, Emily is thrown into turmoil and strongly opposes their marriage. She is determined to break them up.
Whilst Emily is focused on her father’s relationship, she fails to notice that her own fiancé is unhappy in his life. Dominic has followed a path to make his parents happy and now realises that this may not be the right choice for him. He wants to do what makes him happy.
Emily is also unaware that her friend Helen is secretly in love with Dominic. Helen accepts that she and Dominic will only ever be friends, yet she needs to be near to him and is even prepared to put her own career on hold to do so.
The final character in this mix is Alex, Helen’s friend and lodger. Alex is an immoral womaniser who unexpectedly finds himself attracted to Emily – a woman unlike his usual conquests.
One of the appeals about this book for me was the characters. May has provided a quirky and likeable cast, with the exception of Emily. I could not warm to her and I found myself becoming increasingly irritated by her juvenile views and actions. Admittedly, these my opinion of her was tempered somewhat by the end of the book when I fully appreciated how her life experiences had impacted her. I did, however, really like the rest of the protagonists, finding them rounded, believable and, most importantly, likeable.
The story is told in first person point of view by Emily, with support in a third person point of view from Alex, Dominic and Helen. This skillful flitting between characters forces the reader to understand the characters and care about their lives and problems.
The book explores and investigates the relationships between each of the characters, unravelling the layers and exploring how each character has arrived at that point in their lives.
The story ends in its own version of a Shakespeare play, a midsummer ball complete with fairy costumes and a hypnotist. This created a magical fairy-tale scene for the culmination of the tale.
The book is humorous and engaging, and I found myself chuckling away at certain parts of the tale. An entertaining tale, particularly for lovers of romantic comedies.
There are several threads to the tale, all focused around one love triangle (or square…?)
Emily likes to feel safe and be taken care of. She works for her father as his assistant and intends to marry one of his university colleagues, Dominic. Life can’t get much safer than that. However, when her father Theo finds love with the younger Tania, Emily is thrown into turmoil and strongly opposes their marriage. She is determined to break them up.
Whilst Emily is focused on her father’s relationship, she fails to notice that her own fiancé is unhappy in his life. Dominic has followed a path to make his parents happy and now realises that this may not be the right choice for him. He wants to do what makes him happy.
Emily is also unaware that her friend Helen is secretly in love with Dominic. Helen accepts that she and Dominic will only ever be friends, yet she needs to be near to him and is even prepared to put her own career on hold to do so.
The final character in this mix is Alex, Helen’s friend and lodger. Alex is an immoral womaniser who unexpectedly finds himself attracted to Emily – a woman unlike his usual conquests.
One of the appeals about this book for me was the characters. May has provided a quirky and likeable cast, with the exception of Emily. I could not warm to her and I found myself becoming increasingly irritated by her juvenile views and actions. Admittedly, these my opinion of her was tempered somewhat by the end of the book when I fully appreciated how her life experiences had impacted her. I did, however, really like the rest of the protagonists, finding them rounded, believable and, most importantly, likeable.
The story is told in first person point of view by Emily, with support in a third person point of view from Alex, Dominic and Helen. This skillful flitting between characters forces the reader to understand the characters and care about their lives and problems.
The book explores and investigates the relationships between each of the characters, unravelling the layers and exploring how each character has arrived at that point in their lives.
The story ends in its own version of a Shakespeare play, a midsummer ball complete with fairy costumes and a hypnotist. This created a magical fairy-tale scene for the culmination of the tale.
The book is humorous and engaging, and I found myself chuckling away at certain parts of the tale. An entertaining tale, particularly for lovers of romantic comedies.
June 24, 2015
**I received this book from Netgalley for review**
Emily’s father is in Verona, attending a conference, and when he comes home he brings a surprise – a fiancé. A younger, free-spirited woman who Emily instantly dislikes. She’s all wrong for her dad, a professor, and is determined to make her dad see that, and to prevent the wedding from ever happening. Meanwhile, Emily has been dating Dom for quite some time, and while she thinks everything is good, she finds herself attracted to Alex, her friend Helen’s new boarder. Alex is the master of one night stands, but he is also drawn to Emily. And Helen has been in love with Dom for ten years, so Alex tells himself that by pursing Emily, he’s helping Helen.
The short chapters alternate among the four characters, with Emily’s chapters in first person POV. Helen especially resonated with me more than the others, though partly I think because she’s a little older and more mature than Emily. Emily lives with her dad, works for her dad, and takes endless driving lessons without ever having the confidence to actually get her license. She has a lot of growing up to do. But of the four, Helen also reminded me the most of myself, such as with this passage:
“They need volunteers to help. It’ll show that you’re a team player.”
“It’ll be outside,” Helen pulled a face. “With mud, and weather, and outside things.”
And this one, when she and Alex are discussing her need to get over her infatuation with Dom and start dating:
Helen wasn’t sure. The whole notion sounded horrendous. She liked familiar people. She liked people she already knew. Meeting new ones was traumatic.
None of the four friends are particularly happy with their lives, though they all seem to be constantly convincing themselves (and each other) that everything is great and nothing needs to change. And while I decided along the way who should be with who, the author left me hanging practically until the very end.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the writing. There’s plenty of humor, and each character’s personality is distinct and well drawn out. I sometimes wanted to smack a character and tell him or her to chill out or grow up, especially Emily, but I liked all of them, and I was quite satisfied with how everyone’s story was resolved.
Review first posted on my blog.
Emily’s father is in Verona, attending a conference, and when he comes home he brings a surprise – a fiancé. A younger, free-spirited woman who Emily instantly dislikes. She’s all wrong for her dad, a professor, and is determined to make her dad see that, and to prevent the wedding from ever happening. Meanwhile, Emily has been dating Dom for quite some time, and while she thinks everything is good, she finds herself attracted to Alex, her friend Helen’s new boarder. Alex is the master of one night stands, but he is also drawn to Emily. And Helen has been in love with Dom for ten years, so Alex tells himself that by pursing Emily, he’s helping Helen.
The short chapters alternate among the four characters, with Emily’s chapters in first person POV. Helen especially resonated with me more than the others, though partly I think because she’s a little older and more mature than Emily. Emily lives with her dad, works for her dad, and takes endless driving lessons without ever having the confidence to actually get her license. She has a lot of growing up to do. But of the four, Helen also reminded me the most of myself, such as with this passage:
“They need volunteers to help. It’ll show that you’re a team player.”
“It’ll be outside,” Helen pulled a face. “With mud, and weather, and outside things.”
And this one, when she and Alex are discussing her need to get over her infatuation with Dom and start dating:
Helen wasn’t sure. The whole notion sounded horrendous. She liked familiar people. She liked people she already knew. Meeting new ones was traumatic.
None of the four friends are particularly happy with their lives, though they all seem to be constantly convincing themselves (and each other) that everything is great and nothing needs to change. And while I decided along the way who should be with who, the author left me hanging practically until the very end.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the writing. There’s plenty of humor, and each character’s personality is distinct and well drawn out. I sometimes wanted to smack a character and tell him or her to chill out or grow up, especially Emily, but I liked all of them, and I was quite satisfied with how everyone’s story was resolved.
Review first posted on my blog.
June 8, 2015
If you ask anyone what my favourite Shakespeare play is, they’d probably umm and argh, thinking ‘something romantic’. In actual fact, it is ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream’, and if you ask me why? Then I will tell you to read this novel. Why? Because this book captures every single one of those parts of the Bard’s original play that we love, and makes them accessible to a contemporary audience, all without losing its essence.
Alison May surprised me with the emotional wringer she put me through with ‘Midsummer Dreams’. I was expecting the comedy (which she does perfectly), and the sticky romantic tangle that our heroes and heroines find themselves in, but it was the punch that came with it from highlighting the characters inner turmoil and feelings that most reader’s will identify with, that made this book so special.
The story starts a few months before the events of the midsummer night it is famous for, and I loved seeing how all our characters fit together in each others lives, building a foundation for the later romantic turmoil. I especially loved Emily (funny considering how different we are), as I really felt for her, knowing that her desperation to keep her relationship with Dominic strong comes from a deep psychological fear of abandonment. I especially loved reading the scenes between her and Alex, as it is then that we really see how scared she is of anything unplanned, and it is what makes the attraction between her and Alex all that more exciting.
I really enjoyed the changes that Alison May adopted for this story, particularly that of the relationships between the four lovers are, and how they play out throughout the course of the novel. Dominic and Helen’s slow-burning relationship allowed for some hilarious scenes between Helen and Alex, where we see her attempting to rid herself of her infatuation with her best friend’s boyfriend, whilst Alex kids himself that his persual of Emily is all for Helen’s sake so that she can get the guy.
This perfectly fits the category of Romantic Comedy, and I enjoyed every second of it.
5 Stars!
*Review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Alison May surprised me with the emotional wringer she put me through with ‘Midsummer Dreams’. I was expecting the comedy (which she does perfectly), and the sticky romantic tangle that our heroes and heroines find themselves in, but it was the punch that came with it from highlighting the characters inner turmoil and feelings that most reader’s will identify with, that made this book so special.
The story starts a few months before the events of the midsummer night it is famous for, and I loved seeing how all our characters fit together in each others lives, building a foundation for the later romantic turmoil. I especially loved Emily (funny considering how different we are), as I really felt for her, knowing that her desperation to keep her relationship with Dominic strong comes from a deep psychological fear of abandonment. I especially loved reading the scenes between her and Alex, as it is then that we really see how scared she is of anything unplanned, and it is what makes the attraction between her and Alex all that more exciting.
I really enjoyed the changes that Alison May adopted for this story, particularly that of the relationships between the four lovers are, and how they play out throughout the course of the novel. Dominic and Helen’s slow-burning relationship allowed for some hilarious scenes between Helen and Alex, where we see her attempting to rid herself of her infatuation with her best friend’s boyfriend, whilst Alex kids himself that his persual of Emily is all for Helen’s sake so that she can get the guy.
This perfectly fits the category of Romantic Comedy, and I enjoyed every second of it.
5 Stars!
*Review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
June 17, 2015
Now here's a turn-up for the books - today I'm reviewing a lovely book published by Choc Lit, not because they've asked me to, but because I really wanted to! Midsummer Dreams by Alison May was published as an e-book on 12th June. I'm a big fan of Alison's writing. I've previously reviewed both Holly's Christmas Kiss and Cora's Christmas Kiss (I loved them both): and I'm sure I've told you before how much I enjoy reading Alison's blog, where she talks about everything under the sun and frequently makes me laugh and nod in agreement (if you're not already following it, I'd really recommend you do...).
This book was sheer enjoyment from the first page to the last. She's quite wonderful at bringing characters to life - I particularly adored Helen, and my heart ached for her as her dream moved further and further from her grasp. Alex is equally adorable - immoral and irreverent, but quite wonderfully funny and so immensely likeable. Emily, however, is eminently slappable - but she has her reasons for being that way. As for Dom(inic) - quite perfect! And it's not just the main characters, the lesser ones are fantastic too - Theo, the wonderful Tania, Nick who attends lectures in his underpants...
You don't really have to know much about A Midsummer Night's Dream, it won't stop you enjoying it - but being an ex English student I know the play well, and this is such a clever re-telling of the story with a 21st century twist.
And as for the writing - it really sparkles, gentle humour, a little slapstick along the way, and the odd very unexpected tear in the eye. Wonderful stuff - don't overlook this one whatever you do, you'll be missing a few hours of unadulterated fun and enjoyment - I really loved it.
My thanks to netgalley and the publishers Choc Lit for my advance reading e-copy.
This book was sheer enjoyment from the first page to the last. She's quite wonderful at bringing characters to life - I particularly adored Helen, and my heart ached for her as her dream moved further and further from her grasp. Alex is equally adorable - immoral and irreverent, but quite wonderfully funny and so immensely likeable. Emily, however, is eminently slappable - but she has her reasons for being that way. As for Dom(inic) - quite perfect! And it's not just the main characters, the lesser ones are fantastic too - Theo, the wonderful Tania, Nick who attends lectures in his underpants...
You don't really have to know much about A Midsummer Night's Dream, it won't stop you enjoying it - but being an ex English student I know the play well, and this is such a clever re-telling of the story with a 21st century twist.
And as for the writing - it really sparkles, gentle humour, a little slapstick along the way, and the odd very unexpected tear in the eye. Wonderful stuff - don't overlook this one whatever you do, you'll be missing a few hours of unadulterated fun and enjoyment - I really loved it.
My thanks to netgalley and the publishers Choc Lit for my advance reading e-copy.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
What a delightful retelling of the Bard’s tale in a modern day setting. There is one constant thing in life and that is that life changes, daily – and many of us do not accept change in any form well at all.
Four friends and four lives that are in need of changing. Midsummer Dreams is a delightful retelling of A Midsummer’s Night Dream – yes. It’s funny and heart wrenching as well as purely entertaining. It’s also a tale of modern day life that hits the nail so solidly on the head that at times it’s painful to read. Because it makes us think of our own lives and what we should change or the what if’s should we go through with those changes. Life’s not easy, but it is one terrific ride, for the most part.
I enjoyed reading Midsummer Dreams very much. The characters were so realistic I even picked out a few of my real life friends that sound and act so much like some of these characters. Each person gets to speak from their point of view as the chapters change and merge into the next. So this is not a one view perspective, everyone gets involved in this tale. And that helps us enjoy everyone’s story all the more. Yes, there were times when shaking and smacking some people upside the head for not getting the point was very much in my mind – but isn’t that what makes a story real and enjoyable.
I would recommend this novel for those that simply enjoy a slightly complicated group of stories that merge into one grand tale. There is plenty to love in Midsummer Dreams so your next step should be to go read it for yourself and enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of Midsummer Dreams from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
What a delightful retelling of the Bard’s tale in a modern day setting. There is one constant thing in life and that is that life changes, daily – and many of us do not accept change in any form well at all.
Four friends and four lives that are in need of changing. Midsummer Dreams is a delightful retelling of A Midsummer’s Night Dream – yes. It’s funny and heart wrenching as well as purely entertaining. It’s also a tale of modern day life that hits the nail so solidly on the head that at times it’s painful to read. Because it makes us think of our own lives and what we should change or the what if’s should we go through with those changes. Life’s not easy, but it is one terrific ride, for the most part.
I enjoyed reading Midsummer Dreams very much. The characters were so realistic I even picked out a few of my real life friends that sound and act so much like some of these characters. Each person gets to speak from their point of view as the chapters change and merge into the next. So this is not a one view perspective, everyone gets involved in this tale. And that helps us enjoy everyone’s story all the more. Yes, there were times when shaking and smacking some people upside the head for not getting the point was very much in my mind – but isn’t that what makes a story real and enjoyable.
I would recommend this novel for those that simply enjoy a slightly complicated group of stories that merge into one grand tale. There is plenty to love in Midsummer Dreams so your next step should be to go read it for yourself and enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of Midsummer Dreams from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
July 15, 2015
Emily struggles with abandonment issues that lead back to her mother’s death. Frequent nightmares haunt her but her relationship with her father has always been strong and this is what keeps her grounded. Emily is quite comfortable in her relationship with Dom. Older than she, Dom is a Professor of history and works under Emily’s father, Professor Midsomer, as well as dates his daughter. The relationship is something Dom would have rather kept secret, a bit more professional. Things seem to run smoothly in Emily’s world that is until her father returns from a lecture tour with his much younger fiancée, Tania, a former cocktail waitress.
Helen and Alex are childhood friends, sharing an apartment. Alex is an “in the moment” sort of guy. NO commitments, completing his prolonged PhD. and taking on a lecturing job to make ends meet. Helen is anything but. A feminist at heart, dedicated and in love with Dom since her student days at the University, Helen remains silent about her feelings as her best friend Emily moves forward in the relationship. Alex is absolutely fixated with Emily and is determined to get Helen and Dom together in order to pursue Emily.
The method and madness of Alex and Helen is sheer delight as they take you on a journey to discover love, finding faults and being true to yourself.
Helen and Alex are childhood friends, sharing an apartment. Alex is an “in the moment” sort of guy. NO commitments, completing his prolonged PhD. and taking on a lecturing job to make ends meet. Helen is anything but. A feminist at heart, dedicated and in love with Dom since her student days at the University, Helen remains silent about her feelings as her best friend Emily moves forward in the relationship. Alex is absolutely fixated with Emily and is determined to get Helen and Dom together in order to pursue Emily.
The method and madness of Alex and Helen is sheer delight as they take you on a journey to discover love, finding faults and being true to yourself.
March 27, 2021
I'm not big into reading Shakespeare (it's meant to be watched, not read), but I do know A Midsummer Night's Dream, thanks to A-level English Lit. It's not all that relevant to the enjoyment of the book, really, because you can read this modern adaptation without needing to know the original.
I loved the two guys. Alex is bonkers, Dom is so, so sweet. I do like a clever hero. Of the women, I loved Helen and wanted to shake Emily. Really, Emily was incredibly irritating. It's not until the end that you find out why she's like she is, and when you do, you can't help feel a bit proud of her for functioning as well as she does.
The two interlinked stories are good fun and, despite the slightly magical element, completely plausible. There's a sword fight in a car park which made me laugh out loud. (Voice of experience - do not read this book on the bus).
I should make the usual disclaimers that Alison and I are both published by Choc Lit and she's a friend. That doesn't mean I can't buy her books and enjoy them as a reader too. I believe, when I reviewed the first book in the series 'Sweet Nothing' I said the next one was going to be brilliant. I love it when I'm right! Now I just need to work out how to be right more often.
I loved the two guys. Alex is bonkers, Dom is so, so sweet. I do like a clever hero. Of the women, I loved Helen and wanted to shake Emily. Really, Emily was incredibly irritating. It's not until the end that you find out why she's like she is, and when you do, you can't help feel a bit proud of her for functioning as well as she does.
The two interlinked stories are good fun and, despite the slightly magical element, completely plausible. There's a sword fight in a car park which made me laugh out loud. (Voice of experience - do not read this book on the bus).
I should make the usual disclaimers that Alison and I are both published by Choc Lit and she's a friend. That doesn't mean I can't buy her books and enjoy them as a reader too. I believe, when I reviewed the first book in the series 'Sweet Nothing' I said the next one was going to be brilliant. I love it when I'm right! Now I just need to work out how to be right more often.
April 17, 2016
Emily was afraid of being alone , she lives and works with her dad. When her dad becomes friendly with Tania, Emily doesn’t like it and wants to make her dad end the relationship. Emily doesn’t even realize her relationship is basically over. Dominic isn’t happy and realizes he has been living his life to please his parents not himself. Helen realizes her love for Alec is hopeless. Alec has come to the conclusion he wants more from life and the girl he wants is already taken. Dom who is Emily’s boyfriend is a Professor of history and works under Emily’s dad. Alec wants Emily and wants to get Helen and Dom together so he can go after Emily for himself.
I liked this story for the most part I didn’t like Emily not knowing Tania but didn’t want her father with Tania. I also so don’t like when their is cheating going on in a story I am reading. It did work okay in the story but some of the reason not a higher rating for me. I also felt Emily was being very selfish and immature. But i did still finish the story. I liked the characters for the most part and all the twists and turns they go through.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I liked this story for the most part I didn’t like Emily not knowing Tania but didn’t want her father with Tania. I also so don’t like when their is cheating going on in a story I am reading. It did work okay in the story but some of the reason not a higher rating for me. I also felt Emily was being very selfish and immature. But i did still finish the story. I liked the characters for the most part and all the twists and turns they go through.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
May 29, 2015
Received a copy via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This is a really quirky, fun, if a little dark at times, modern spin on A Midsummer Night's Dream and it works really well. The four main characters have their own interesting backstories and the fact that each chapter transfers from one character to another really helps the story flow.
the real main character is Emily and she's driven by a fear of being alone and when her Dad finds love while away she tries to do all she can to keep her dad to herself as that life is all she knew. You find out towards the end of the book why she feels so alone and fearful and it really makes you understand her actions, which do appear a little selfish and needy at times!
Add to the mix her best friend Helen and her unrequited love, Emilys boyfriend Dom who appears to be safe and steady, and Helens new ladies man lodger, Alex, and let the fun begin!!
Highly recommended for someone who wants a little something different from a normal chick lit romance!
This is a really quirky, fun, if a little dark at times, modern spin on A Midsummer Night's Dream and it works really well. The four main characters have their own interesting backstories and the fact that each chapter transfers from one character to another really helps the story flow.
the real main character is Emily and she's driven by a fear of being alone and when her Dad finds love while away she tries to do all she can to keep her dad to herself as that life is all she knew. You find out towards the end of the book why she feels so alone and fearful and it really makes you understand her actions, which do appear a little selfish and needy at times!
Add to the mix her best friend Helen and her unrequited love, Emilys boyfriend Dom who appears to be safe and steady, and Helens new ladies man lodger, Alex, and let the fun begin!!
Highly recommended for someone who wants a little something different from a normal chick lit romance!
June 14, 2015
Brilliant modern telling of a favorite tale!
There are almost 100 chapters in this book! Do NOT let that scare you away. ;) The chapters are short and hop around among the four characters' brains to let you in on what they're thinking. Me? I spent well over half this book wanting to strangle every single one of them for their lack of communication. Well, okay, whatever. If they were communicating, there'd be no story.
The humor is sharp and quick. Don't blink or you'll miss it! Some of it is laugh-out-loud funny, so you may want to read in private. Unless you're okay with being stared at. By Chapter Eighty-Seven, I had tears dripping down my face, trying to drown me in them. Have some tissues handy when the feels set in.
Lastly, this is one American girl who LOVES British slang. Nothing makes me laugh harder than a well-placed slang word. Who knew that fug was a real word? Thanks for helping me get smarter, Alison!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There are almost 100 chapters in this book! Do NOT let that scare you away. ;) The chapters are short and hop around among the four characters' brains to let you in on what they're thinking. Me? I spent well over half this book wanting to strangle every single one of them for their lack of communication. Well, okay, whatever. If they were communicating, there'd be no story.
The humor is sharp and quick. Don't blink or you'll miss it! Some of it is laugh-out-loud funny, so you may want to read in private. Unless you're okay with being stared at. By Chapter Eighty-Seven, I had tears dripping down my face, trying to drown me in them. Have some tissues handy when the feels set in.
Lastly, this is one American girl who LOVES British slang. Nothing makes me laugh harder than a well-placed slang word. Who knew that fug was a real word? Thanks for helping me get smarter, Alison!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2021
Even if you're not particularly familiar with Shakespeare's play (I only remembered it rather vaguely when I read this book in 2015), it wouldn't stop you from enjoying this modern-day romantic comedy. Having recently read (or seen) it, though, would definitely make you enjoy even more the scenes that contain many little references to the play's plot (it was already fun the first time I read it, but even more the second time, soon after re-reading the play).
You might be surprised to find out the story starts in winter and doesn't really remind of the play until after half the book, but by the time you get to that part, you'll really know (and hopefully care for) the four main characters, as well as Emily's father and soon-to-be stepmother, so they won't just be modern versions of Shakespeare's characters but also practically real people in your mind (at least that's what they are in mine). And, even if they deal with some serious and sad stuff, it's mostly very fun to read from start to end.
You might be surprised to find out the story starts in winter and doesn't really remind of the play until after half the book, but by the time you get to that part, you'll really know (and hopefully care for) the four main characters, as well as Emily's father and soon-to-be stepmother, so they won't just be modern versions of Shakespeare's characters but also practically real people in your mind (at least that's what they are in mine). And, even if they deal with some serious and sad stuff, it's mostly very fun to read from start to end.
June 12, 2015
"Ill met by moonlight, proud Titania". Thus says Oberon in A Midsummer Night's Dream. I didn't read the blurb before I read the book (I trust Chic Lit implicitly!) and was delighted to discover my friends from the magical forest of Shakespeare!
I loved the characters and how they blended with their literary counterparts. It was a beautifully tangled plot - the Bard would have been pleased!
The scenes on Midsummer Night were brilliantly described and the "magic" cleverly integrated. Was impressed with the way all the minor characters were tied in with the action of the main characters.. Although I did feel like chasing Emily a few times!
This is my first Alison May book and I am looking forward to reading her others.
I was given an ARC by the publisher Choc Lit via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the characters and how they blended with their literary counterparts. It was a beautifully tangled plot - the Bard would have been pleased!
The scenes on Midsummer Night were brilliantly described and the "magic" cleverly integrated. Was impressed with the way all the minor characters were tied in with the action of the main characters.. Although I did feel like chasing Emily a few times!
This is my first Alison May book and I am looking forward to reading her others.
I was given an ARC by the publisher Choc Lit via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2015
This is the 2nd. book in Alison May's 21st Century Bard series - and the first I've read. It doesn't take a genius to work out the connections between the book and Shakespeare's much-loved comedy, and Alison does an excellent job of parallelling her characters with those of the play. There's a lot of fun to be had picking up all the literary allusions.
The basics of the tale are well known so it will come as no surprise that they all live happily ever after - or at least for a few days!!
The"cast" of characters are well drawn, the situations and annoyances are well set out, and the tale is well told (VERY well told!). There IS a plethora of chapters, all from a different character's point of view, so, if you, like me, tend to read a chapter a night, it may take a long time to finish. It IS worth the effort though.
Roll on Alison's next dip into the Bard's world.
The basics of the tale are well known so it will come as no surprise that they all live happily ever after - or at least for a few days!!
The"cast" of characters are well drawn, the situations and annoyances are well set out, and the tale is well told (VERY well told!). There IS a plethora of chapters, all from a different character's point of view, so, if you, like me, tend to read a chapter a night, it may take a long time to finish. It IS worth the effort though.
Roll on Alison's next dip into the Bard's world.
May 26, 2015
Without a good memory or a recent reading to draw the comparison's to Shakespeare's play, I kept referencing the Kirsten Dunst adaptation vehicle "Get Over It" in my mind. That movie and this book are both modern retellings and adaptations of Midsummer Night's Dream. If you were reading this romantic comedy without that reference point, this plot would be called convoluted at best. But instead, this is a fun romp through the setup of the Shakespearean play and characters but in a modern British setting. The switching to different character's Point of View was well labeled but a bit distracting. I would recommended this novel to anyone looking for British chick lit who will appreciate the many Shakespearean references!
February 16, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, so I was excited to see a series that is a collection of modern retellings of Shakespeare plays- plus it's nice that the order you read them in does't really matter since they are separate stories. I have previously read A Midsummer Nights Dream, so going into it I knew generally how things would go (which in no way made the book any less entertaining.... actually, I think that was part of it's charm- to read along and find out how the original was adapted to create a new story). I enjoyed the characters, and I appreciated how the relationships evolved throughout the book in a way that felt natural and made sense without being rushed. Definitely wanting to check out the rest of the series.
Okay, so I was excited to see a series that is a collection of modern retellings of Shakespeare plays- plus it's nice that the order you read them in does't really matter since they are separate stories. I have previously read A Midsummer Nights Dream, so going into it I knew generally how things would go (which in no way made the book any less entertaining.... actually, I think that was part of it's charm- to read along and find out how the original was adapted to create a new story). I enjoyed the characters, and I appreciated how the relationships evolved throughout the book in a way that felt natural and made sense without being rushed. Definitely wanting to check out the rest of the series.
June 24, 2015
Loved this book! Very cleverly entwined with the characters and story from A Midsummer Night's Dream, but with a lovely current day twist. I found myself looking for blips in the narrative where it didn't fit the Shakespeare play, but didn't find anything that didn't shadow the bard's intentions. Well done, Alison - a really lovely read, humorous, fluently written and engaging - and an excellent ending too! What more could you want? Love Alison's style! I shall read more of hers.
September 5, 2016
Such a fun, clever read. Great characters, excellent one-liners and a plot that keeps you reading. I loved the parallels with Shakespeare's play but they weren't overdone and the framework didn't feel forced. Such an achievement!
July 6, 2015
I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley for an honest review and this is the review.
Truthfully I could not get into this book at all. To me all it was a group of people who were not happy with their lives and wanted to switch partners and break others apart.
I had to give this book two out of five stars because I could not relate at all.
Truthfully I could not get into this book at all. To me all it was a group of people who were not happy with their lives and wanted to switch partners and break others apart.
I had to give this book two out of five stars because I could not relate at all.
January 20, 2016
Not a very good book. It's full of cliches and all the characters are stereotypes. Nothing out of the ordinary, all very predictable. It would be better suited for a movie script from my point of view, not a proper book. Also including this into the rom-com genre is way an exaggeration, the book didn't make me at least smile once. An ordinary book, only worth if given free.
Read
February 8, 2016A funny, updated version of Shakespeare's Midsummer's Night Dream! Told through the perspective of four friends. It was both delightful and thought provoking. Made me compare characters to people in my own life. I really enjoyed reading this book!
I received an advanced copy of this book from www.netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book from www.netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2015
This was a cute story about family workings, your belief in your own self and the power of love. Well written and engaging. Read as an ARC through netgalley.com
February 22, 2016
One of those books it's difficult to put down. A lovely happy ending although it's quite dark in places. Fascinating characters.
December 11, 2016
3.5 stars, light hearted enjoyable read - perfect for the end of year
Displaying 1 - 28 of 29 reviews