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Dreamtreaders #3
The War for the Waking World
Would you be willing to fight for your dreams? Fifteen-year-old Archer Keaton has the ability to enter and explore his dreams. He is a Dreamtreader, one of three selected from each generation. Their to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord who dwells beyond the Slumber Gate. But as Archer’s dreams become more dangerous and threatening, so too does his waking life. In this fast-paced conclusion to the exciting fantasy trilogy, the dream world and the waking world bleed into each other when a rift is formed between the two. People in the real world suddenly find their waking lives resemble their wildest dreams. Now it’s up to Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders to race to reverse the rift before too much damage is done and to battle Archer’s ex-best friend, Kara, who sits on the throne of the Nightmare Lord. Kara is building an army of her own. Will Archer be strong enough to stand against her?
288 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2015
9 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
Wayne Thomas Batson
43 books928 followersWayne Thomas Batson was born in Seabrook, MD in 1968. He had an adventurous childhood and adolescence that included: building forts in the woods, crabbing and crayfishing in bays, ponds, and bayous, playing lead guitar in a heavy metal band, and teaching tennis lessons at the local recreation center. He attended Gabriel DuVal Senior High School where he wrote for the school’s newspaper and literary magazine. He was voted “Most Talented” in his senior year, and wrote this for his Yearbook Senior Goal: “To become a published author.” Little did he know that God had even greater plans.
Wayne Thomas Batson has spent the last thirty years teaching Reading and English to Maryland middle school students. Wayne Thomas Batson lives in Eldersburg with his extraordinary wife of 26 years. His four adult children intermittently live at home whenever their unexpected adventures lead them.
Batson’s writing career began in 2005 with the publication of fantasy epic, The Door Within. Since then, The Door Within, The Final Storm, Isle of Swords, and Isle of Fire have all appeared on the CBA Young Adult Bestseller List, including #2 for The Final Storm Fall 2007. To date, Batson has penned or coauthored seventeen novels and has sold well over half a million copies.
Wayne Thomas Batson gives thanks to God for the abundant life he’s been given. He continues to write for the people he cares so deeply about because he believes that, on a deep level, we all long for another world and yearn to do something important.
Wayne Thomas Batson has spent the last thirty years teaching Reading and English to Maryland middle school students. Wayne Thomas Batson lives in Eldersburg with his extraordinary wife of 26 years. His four adult children intermittently live at home whenever their unexpected adventures lead them.
Batson’s writing career began in 2005 with the publication of fantasy epic, The Door Within. Since then, The Door Within, The Final Storm, Isle of Swords, and Isle of Fire have all appeared on the CBA Young Adult Bestseller List, including #2 for The Final Storm Fall 2007. To date, Batson has penned or coauthored seventeen novels and has sold well over half a million copies.
Wayne Thomas Batson gives thanks to God for the abundant life he’s been given. He continues to write for the people he cares so deeply about because he believes that, on a deep level, we all long for another world and yearn to do something important.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 20, 2018
Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders are fighting the final battle. With the Rift tearing their world apart, they will need some strange allies to pull things back together. Kara has taken the Nightmare Lord's throne, and is throwing the world into chaos in her desperate grab for power. Archer will have to think outside the box to find a way to defeat Kara and her armies before the Rift destroys everything they know.
I continue to love Archer's character! He grows and changes and becomes more mature in this book. He's no longer reckless and foolish. He takes responsibility for his bad choices, and puts his own needs aside to focus on helping others.
I adore little Kaylie! She is an 8-year-old genius with more mental power than all the others combined, but she is cute as a button and sweet as icecream. She's so adorable and lovely!
I was confused by some of the plot points concerning the villain characters.
I love me a good redemption story, but it needs to make sense. There needs to be a reason, a big life-changing reason, for the villain to team up with the good guys. And this just felt so unrealistic for the villains to have a sudden change of heart.
I really loved the clever way that the heroes found a way to close up the Rift. It was half sci-fi, and half magic. Very imaginative, and fit in perfectly with the story!
Overall, I loved this trilogy! Great writing, and wonderful characters, plenty of action and fantasy!
I continue to love Archer's character! He grows and changes and becomes more mature in this book. He's no longer reckless and foolish. He takes responsibility for his bad choices, and puts his own needs aside to focus on helping others.
I adore little Kaylie! She is an 8-year-old genius with more mental power than all the others combined, but she is cute as a button and sweet as icecream. She's so adorable and lovely!
I was confused by some of the plot points concerning the villain characters.
I love me a good redemption story, but it needs to make sense. There needs to be a reason, a big life-changing reason, for the villain to team up with the good guys. And this just felt so unrealistic for the villains to have a sudden change of heart.
I really loved the clever way that the heroes found a way to close up the Rift. It was half sci-fi, and half magic. Very imaginative, and fit in perfectly with the story!
Overall, I loved this trilogy! Great writing, and wonderful characters, plenty of action and fantasy!
March 9, 2017
This series was jaw-dropping! AH-MAZING! One of the best series I have EVER read! Loved Archer! Other characters were great too, great plot! If you like Fantasy, this is for you!
November 10, 2015
This is the end of a good trilogy. Archer is a fifteen year old Dreamtreader. In this book, the dream world and the awake world combine. Archer's job is to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord, who also happens to be a former friend. Archer has to get the tear between worlds fixed and fixed quickly!
There is plenty of action in this. I know it is for YA but I completely enjoyed the trilogy. The author does a great job with imagry and it is great with the dreams becoming reality. Archer is a strong young man and I really got trapped in his journey and couldn't leave until the end. It wasn't an easy journey by any stretch of the imagination but it was thrilling.
I really liked this whole series. I would say start with book 1 and go from there but this one could be read as a stand alone. 5/5 for me.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the review copy of this book (via Litfuse). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
There is plenty of action in this. I know it is for YA but I completely enjoyed the trilogy. The author does a great job with imagry and it is great with the dreams becoming reality. Archer is a strong young man and I really got trapped in his journey and couldn't leave until the end. It wasn't an easy journey by any stretch of the imagination but it was thrilling.
I really liked this whole series. I would say start with book 1 and go from there but this one could be read as a stand alone. 5/5 for me.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the review copy of this book (via Litfuse). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
November 10, 2015
Note: this review written by my middle-school age son.
When I first started to read this book, I was immediately interested because it gave minimal but enough background information about what was going on. At first, I did not quite understand who the characters were, but that was soon clarified. After about ten pages in, I was able to tell what the basic storyline/plot was. I thought that I would definitely not lose interest in this book; I would for sure read it all the way through.
I liked how it did now just tell you what was happening or what was going to happen. It would show you, at a good pace–not too fast but not too slow either. I think that this book is great and I would definitely recommend it to kids or even some adults if they’re interested.
War for the Waking World by Wayne Thomas BatsonThanks to Litfuse Publicity and Thomas Nelson for providing a free copy to review. All opinions are ours.
When I first started to read this book, I was immediately interested because it gave minimal but enough background information about what was going on. At first, I did not quite understand who the characters were, but that was soon clarified. After about ten pages in, I was able to tell what the basic storyline/plot was. I thought that I would definitely not lose interest in this book; I would for sure read it all the way through.
I liked how it did now just tell you what was happening or what was going to happen. It would show you, at a good pace–not too fast but not too slow either. I think that this book is great and I would definitely recommend it to kids or even some adults if they’re interested.
War for the Waking World by Wayne Thomas BatsonThanks to Litfuse Publicity and Thomas Nelson for providing a free copy to review. All opinions are ours.
January 29, 2016
I do love the dreamtrader series with their endless mysteries, adventure, and awe you can only experience in your dreams.
"War for the Waking World" was an amazing conclusion to "The Shadow Key" (book 2). After the devastating tragedy of the two worlds fusing together, Archer and his friends fight to save the world they once knew. But in the new world anything is possible...and that can become extremely dangerous. Archer and his gang fights many strange creatures, some so horrifying that they will give you nightmares yourself, in this action packed fantasy any adventurer would not want to miss.
though the characters some times seemed flat and I frequently found myself irritated at their lack of reaction/emotion to the situations in which they found themselves in. Also along those same lines, the narrative also felt flat. It tended to tell me details rather than showing them to me. But overall I really did enjoy this series.
"War for the Waking World" was an amazing conclusion to "The Shadow Key" (book 2). After the devastating tragedy of the two worlds fusing together, Archer and his friends fight to save the world they once knew. But in the new world anything is possible...and that can become extremely dangerous. Archer and his gang fights many strange creatures, some so horrifying that they will give you nightmares yourself, in this action packed fantasy any adventurer would not want to miss.
though the characters some times seemed flat and I frequently found myself irritated at their lack of reaction/emotion to the situations in which they found themselves in. Also along those same lines, the narrative also felt flat. It tended to tell me details rather than showing them to me. But overall I really did enjoy this series.
November 5, 2015
Whew!! What a wild ride! I suppose I should have read the first two books in the series so I would have known what I was getting into! It took me a little bit to understand what all was going on.
So, the dream world has entered the waking world and peoples' imaginations are becoming reality. Terrifying! It's up to the Dreamtreaders to reverse the rift that joined the two. Archer and his sister must battle his former best friend as she controls the evil that is taking place.
Great book. It wasn't my usual style, but it was definitely fun. I believe it is written toward YA, but I think that anyone with a mind for fantasy would really enjoy this. I definitely recommend, but I also recommend picking up books one and two first!!
Thank you, Litfuse, for this great read!! As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!!
So, the dream world has entered the waking world and peoples' imaginations are becoming reality. Terrifying! It's up to the Dreamtreaders to reverse the rift that joined the two. Archer and his sister must battle his former best friend as she controls the evil that is taking place.
Great book. It wasn't my usual style, but it was definitely fun. I believe it is written toward YA, but I think that anyone with a mind for fantasy would really enjoy this. I definitely recommend, but I also recommend picking up books one and two first!!
Thank you, Litfuse, for this great read!! As always, this is my honest opinion. Here's to many more!!
May 13, 2020
I read this series at a request and was given the books. They began a little slow for me (probably because I'm an adult and not a kid or teen), but by the last book I was fully involved with the characters. The books are well written and although, again as an adult and a Christian, I was able to figure out who some of the characters were (Bezeal, Gabriel, Michael). However, it didn't take away from the story. I will recommend them to some young people I know.
February 7, 2018
Archer and Kaylie are dreamtreaders, people given special abilities to enter the Dream and given the duty to preserve the Dream. However, in the previous book, their enemies had deceived Archer and together had destroyed the barrier that protected our world from the Dream, wrecking disaster on the world. A special force of only three at any given time in history, dreamtreaders are taught how to use their will to change and to create. These skills, though meant for use in the Dream, must be used now to fix the Rift and bring order back into the chaos. However, their enemies are also at work. Deceptive and conniving, Kara has been perfecting the Harlequin Veil, the perfect tool for deceiving the world and brainwashing people into believing that everything is wonderful and perfect, even though the opposite is quite true. To confound the efforts of the Dreamtreaders, charges are brought against Archer who is taken to the highest court a dreamtreader could ever enter. Nick, their fellow Dreamtreader, seems lost to reality, sucked into the false security created by the Veil.
As a book geared to 8-12 year olds, The War for the Waking World meets several essential criteria. The story is exciting with quite a few twists and turns. It moves very quickly and jumps from character to character, telling the story from multiple points of view. The main characters are special, especially Archer who is 15 and Kaylie who is 8. They both have special powers, enabling them to create things using their will, fly, and do other amazing things. Which 8-12 year old kid doesn't dream of having superpowers of some kind? 15-year old Archer also defeats his nemesis and is able to outsmart those who were scheming against him. The War for the Waking World will be appealing to upper elementary/middle grade students for these reasons. Parents will like it because it is an allegory and has interesting themes woven into the series.
Since it is middle grade fiction, it moved too quickly and the solutions were too simple. Because the dreamtreaders are able to create almost anything using their will, I found the book to be a little too predictable and a little too convenient. Most of the time, the main characters could easily come up with a solution to the problem, and sometimes those solutions were really strange. Yet, the story sometimes seemed inconsistent, for at other times, they were unable to use their will to solve a problem. It might excite many 8-12 year olds, but as an adult who normally enjoys young adult and children's fiction a lot, I wasn't impressed. Admittedly, this is the only book of the series that I have read and I did not know the backstory before reading it. Honestly though, I don't think having understood the backstory would raise my opinion of the book much.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for an electronic copy of this book for review. All opinions contained above are my own.
As a book geared to 8-12 year olds, The War for the Waking World meets several essential criteria. The story is exciting with quite a few twists and turns. It moves very quickly and jumps from character to character, telling the story from multiple points of view. The main characters are special, especially Archer who is 15 and Kaylie who is 8. They both have special powers, enabling them to create things using their will, fly, and do other amazing things. Which 8-12 year old kid doesn't dream of having superpowers of some kind? 15-year old Archer also defeats his nemesis and is able to outsmart those who were scheming against him. The War for the Waking World will be appealing to upper elementary/middle grade students for these reasons. Parents will like it because it is an allegory and has interesting themes woven into the series.
Since it is middle grade fiction, it moved too quickly and the solutions were too simple. Because the dreamtreaders are able to create almost anything using their will, I found the book to be a little too predictable and a little too convenient. Most of the time, the main characters could easily come up with a solution to the problem, and sometimes those solutions were really strange. Yet, the story sometimes seemed inconsistent, for at other times, they were unable to use their will to solve a problem. It might excite many 8-12 year olds, but as an adult who normally enjoys young adult and children's fiction a lot, I wasn't impressed. Admittedly, this is the only book of the series that I have read and I did not know the backstory before reading it. Honestly though, I don't think having understood the backstory would raise my opinion of the book much.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for an electronic copy of this book for review. All opinions contained above are my own.
May 20, 2019
Archer Keaton and his fellow Dreamtreaders have failed. The Rift has occurred, and now the Dream world has blended with the Waking World. But instead of everyone going insane, they all seem surprisingly content. To them, the world has never been better. When Archer is put out of commission by a devious plot, the other two Dreamtreaders are left to save the Waking World on their own. Unsure of whom to trust, and with a major deadline looming over them, the War for the Waking World just might end in disaster...
This book was pretty enjoyable. As with the previous books, I really enjoyed hanging out with the characters, and it was fun watching them grow even more in this story. I liked the various plot twists, and I especially enjoyed the battle near the ending. It was basically just a fun book.
I do have some complaints, though. Throughout the series, there have been several loose ends. I didn’t feel that they were all tied off at the ending of this book; but, seeing as the last chapter is literally entitled “Loose Ends”, that probably shouldn’t have come as a surprise. I don’t care much for open endings, though, so that irked me a bit. There are just so many things I would have liked to know that are never explained.
Another complaint is that the book might be a bit too... dark for the age group. One character in particular is quite evil, and I feel this could be disturbing for some readers.
Complaints aside, though, I did enjoy reading this book and the series as a whole. The ending wasn’t anticlimactic at all, and I was left feeling mostly satisfied. Overall, this has been a fun series, one that any lover of fantastical adventures will enjoy.
This book was pretty enjoyable. As with the previous books, I really enjoyed hanging out with the characters, and it was fun watching them grow even more in this story. I liked the various plot twists, and I especially enjoyed the battle near the ending. It was basically just a fun book.
I do have some complaints, though. Throughout the series, there have been several loose ends. I didn’t feel that they were all tied off at the ending of this book; but, seeing as the last chapter is literally entitled “Loose Ends”, that probably shouldn’t have come as a surprise. I don’t care much for open endings, though, so that irked me a bit. There are just so many things I would have liked to know that are never explained.
Another complaint is that the book might be a bit too... dark for the age group. One character in particular is quite evil, and I feel this could be disturbing for some readers.
Complaints aside, though, I did enjoy reading this book and the series as a whole. The ending wasn’t anticlimactic at all, and I was left feeling mostly satisfied. Overall, this has been a fun series, one that any lover of fantastical adventures will enjoy.
March 21, 2017
As a tween/teen, I so enjoyed speculative fiction, but I was frequently exposed to subjects that I did not want to read, such as witchcraft, far-fetched science fiction, etc. I would have liked to have had books like this one (and this series) available to read.
This book is the third in the series, but I didn’t realize that when I began reading it. The upside is that the author explains what happened previously, and I eventually caught up. The downside is that by not reading the first two, I missed out on some great reading. I’ll go back now and read the first two, but doing so will not build the wonderful anticipation brought by reading a series in order.
Had I read the first two books, I would have appreciated the characters, plot, drama, and so on better, of course. But as it is, the characters were drawn well enough that I had a good sense of what their struggles were and where they were likely to wind up. The plot was fairly fast moving, engaging, and interesting to read. I liked that there were spiritual elements at play in the characters and plot, but the book wasn’t preachy. The main character does indeed face his pride and is humbled. Books with true, Biblical consequences are rare.
I think it was CS Lewis that said, “The world does not need more Christian literature. What it needs is more Christians writing good literature.” This book falls into that category. Truths, consequences, redemption, all without having anything shoved down anyone’s throat.
I gratefully received this book as an eARC from the author, publisher, and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
This book is the third in the series, but I didn’t realize that when I began reading it. The upside is that the author explains what happened previously, and I eventually caught up. The downside is that by not reading the first two, I missed out on some great reading. I’ll go back now and read the first two, but doing so will not build the wonderful anticipation brought by reading a series in order.
Had I read the first two books, I would have appreciated the characters, plot, drama, and so on better, of course. But as it is, the characters were drawn well enough that I had a good sense of what their struggles were and where they were likely to wind up. The plot was fairly fast moving, engaging, and interesting to read. I liked that there were spiritual elements at play in the characters and plot, but the book wasn’t preachy. The main character does indeed face his pride and is humbled. Books with true, Biblical consequences are rare.
I think it was CS Lewis that said, “The world does not need more Christian literature. What it needs is more Christians writing good literature.” This book falls into that category. Truths, consequences, redemption, all without having anything shoved down anyone’s throat.
I gratefully received this book as an eARC from the author, publisher, and NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
February 4, 2018
Decent conclusion, although I felt like there were some continuity issues, and also some things that they acted like were REALLY REALLY IMPORTANT and then other things that were revealed and everyone was just kinda like, Oh okay - even though it seemed like it should have been a big deal.
Overall, a decent trilogy for a one-time read, but nothing so thrilling that I see myself returning to it again.
Full review for whole trilogy (no spoilers) on my blog - https://thearomaofbooks.wordpress.com...
Overall, a decent trilogy for a one-time read, but nothing so thrilling that I see myself returning to it again.
Full review for whole trilogy (no spoilers) on my blog - https://thearomaofbooks.wordpress.com...
September 1, 2020
So far, I guess I'm the only one who felt like these were YA books, due to the complexity, battles, and ages of our peeps - 13-15. I'm sure younger readers would also like this series if their reading level is high enough. So, book 3 of the series. This was a fast, fast ride to the end. I enjoyed the stories more with each book, as characters developed and the plot thickened. Some of the surprises I saw coming, and some not so much. Fine finish!
December 16, 2017
This is definitely one of the best trilogy finales I've ever read. It wrapped up everything with a wonderful little bow on top.
Just like with the previous two books, this one went right to the action from page 1. It was wonderfully engaging throughout, and I really hope I get to go back and re-read this entire trilogy at some point. Even if it's just to re-read the ending. IT WAS THAT GOOD.
Just like with the previous two books, this one went right to the action from page 1. It was wonderfully engaging throughout, and I really hope I get to go back and re-read this entire trilogy at some point. Even if it's just to re-read the ending. IT WAS THAT GOOD.
April 24, 2020
I think the book is very mysterious and at times thrilling, I like the author's approach on this particular book.
June 18, 2020
WTB writes dreams!
It's a fantastic concept-dream treading. To remember our dreams is one thing-to travel at will to different dream realms is a whole other thought.
It's a fantastic concept-dream treading. To remember our dreams is one thing-to travel at will to different dream realms is a whole other thought.
May 16, 2022
Fascinating story that continued to keep me intrigued.
May 28, 2022
Such a good way to end the book series. Highly recommend them!
December 7, 2023
That twist though!!!!
August 23, 2025
I love this series. So good! Don’t read late at night.
November 26, 2025
same vibe all through the series
November 10, 2015
Have you ever had a nightmare, but upon waking, it was so *real* that it took some time for you to discover that it was nothing but a dream? What if the world of dreams actually seeped into reality?
Because my oldest loves to read, and has similar taste to mine, I end up reading a fair amount of YA books that tend towards feminine interest (although much of it is not biased towards either gender). Wayne Thomas Batson is a new to me author, who just released the third book of his Dreamtreaders series, and his books will attract readers male and female both, that enjoy reading the fantasy genre. I received a paperback copy of the book from Litfuse publicity for review purposes. I also received access to e-versions of the 1st two books in the series, which was a help.
War for the Waking World is a novel rooted in the fantasy of dreams and nightmares, and the merging of the temporal world with the dream world. The hero is something of an "every day" guy in the real world (his exclamation of "Snot-buckets!" isn't my favorite thing...) but in the dream world he is one of only three Dreamtreaders~ individuals charged with keeping the two worlds from colliding, and not allowing a burgeoning Rift to wreak havoc on everything.
I haven't read all of the previous books, but I would suggest that it would be good to start at the beginning, with Dream Treaders Book One, then Search for the Shadow Key, before reading War for the Waking World if possible. While War for the Waking World *could* be read alone, the story lines do build on one another. The books start a little abruptly. I was convinced I needed to read the 1st book in the series first, after starting War for the Waking World because the action was so precipitous, but Dream Treaders starts the same way, dropping you right into the story. I believe it is a device of the author, since waking from a dream is sometimes quite abrupt as well.
It is an intriguing concept, dreams that become reality (in a nightmarish sort of way, vs a "live your dreams" sort of way). I don't recommend this book for a reader who is prone to nightmares... it could cause a few more of its own ~ there is some violence, and graphic descriptions of nightmarish monsters, as decisions in dreams/nightmares lead to consequences in the real world.
However, for others, it is a creative read with a grounding in faith and character. Our hero (Archer) isn't perfect, but his character grows as he is used to fulfill a high calling~ Just being a Dreamtreader requires selflessness, courage, and persistence, as he fights for humanity's peace of mind and life.
As C. S. Lewis said,
“Since it is so likely that (children) will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage. Otherwise you are making their destiny not brighter but darker.”
I believe this is true for children and teens and adults. We all benefit from "Story" that is grounded in heroic character. This enhances an awareness of right and wrong, black and white, and an ability to parse the gray of life, making wise decisions in a split second.
Archer makes mistakes, just like we do, but even through the mistakes, he is still one chosen to help save the world (just like Moses, David, and Peter are unlikely heros in their human-ness).
Because my oldest loves to read, and has similar taste to mine, I end up reading a fair amount of YA books that tend towards feminine interest (although much of it is not biased towards either gender). Wayne Thomas Batson is a new to me author, who just released the third book of his Dreamtreaders series, and his books will attract readers male and female both, that enjoy reading the fantasy genre. I received a paperback copy of the book from Litfuse publicity for review purposes. I also received access to e-versions of the 1st two books in the series, which was a help.
War for the Waking World is a novel rooted in the fantasy of dreams and nightmares, and the merging of the temporal world with the dream world. The hero is something of an "every day" guy in the real world (his exclamation of "Snot-buckets!" isn't my favorite thing...) but in the dream world he is one of only three Dreamtreaders~ individuals charged with keeping the two worlds from colliding, and not allowing a burgeoning Rift to wreak havoc on everything.
I haven't read all of the previous books, but I would suggest that it would be good to start at the beginning, with Dream Treaders Book One, then Search for the Shadow Key, before reading War for the Waking World if possible. While War for the Waking World *could* be read alone, the story lines do build on one another. The books start a little abruptly. I was convinced I needed to read the 1st book in the series first, after starting War for the Waking World because the action was so precipitous, but Dream Treaders starts the same way, dropping you right into the story. I believe it is a device of the author, since waking from a dream is sometimes quite abrupt as well.
It is an intriguing concept, dreams that become reality (in a nightmarish sort of way, vs a "live your dreams" sort of way). I don't recommend this book for a reader who is prone to nightmares... it could cause a few more of its own ~ there is some violence, and graphic descriptions of nightmarish monsters, as decisions in dreams/nightmares lead to consequences in the real world.
However, for others, it is a creative read with a grounding in faith and character. Our hero (Archer) isn't perfect, but his character grows as he is used to fulfill a high calling~ Just being a Dreamtreader requires selflessness, courage, and persistence, as he fights for humanity's peace of mind and life.
As C. S. Lewis said,
“Since it is so likely that (children) will meet cruel enemies, let them at least have heard of brave knights and heroic courage. Otherwise you are making their destiny not brighter but darker.”
I believe this is true for children and teens and adults. We all benefit from "Story" that is grounded in heroic character. This enhances an awareness of right and wrong, black and white, and an ability to parse the gray of life, making wise decisions in a split second.
Archer makes mistakes, just like we do, but even through the mistakes, he is still one chosen to help save the world (just like Moses, David, and Peter are unlikely heros in their human-ness).
March 12, 2016
I have mixed feelings about the Dreamtreaders series.
I do think the concept for the series is wonderfully creative – a young teen is part of a very select group of people set apart for a specific purpose, defeating the Nightmare Lord before he can wreak havoc on the Waking World. Let me be the first to assure you; this isn’t some cutesy, mamby-pamby dream villain either. The dude is evil. The other villains that pop up over the course of the series are just as evil … and they must be stopped – with greater urgency as the books progress. By War for the Waking World, and after several surprising and imaginative twists, we are at critical mass.
The spiritual analogies are subtle, much like Narnia or LOTR, but they are clearly present. I love finding parallels and deeper meanings when I read speculative fiction! Besides the obvious themes of good and evil, there is a distinct emphasis in book 3 on the manipulative nature of our enemy as well as his role as our accuser. And just for good measure, here’s my personal favorite message in War for the Waking World – avoid television, read a book. Seriously. You never know when it might save your intelligence. :)
On the other hand, I just couldn’t stay engaged. Dreamtreader (book 1) drops you in the middle of action already in progress and doesn’t explain what’s happening. In fact, I wondered briefly if either a) I had mistakenly assumed this was the first book or b) there was another prologue somewhere that my copy was missing or c) Archer was playing a video game. Slowly, the pieces began to come together, but I didn’t like being confused and left without answers. Unlike Harry Potter or The Chronicles of Narnia or even the LOTR books, there was no “fish out of water” character that needed the back story explained (well, except me). And the narrator wasn’t sympathetic to my predicament. The result? The author left the readers to catch up on their own, which in my opinion can lead to needless frustration, confusion, and disconnect. Each book begins this way, building off the previous ending, so readers really do need to follow the series in order.
Additionally, the characters seemed flat and I frequently found myself irritated at their lack of reaction/emotion to the situations in which they found themselves. Along those same lines, the narrative also felt flat. It tended to tell me details rather than showing them to me, though I do feel that this much improved in War for the Waking World.
Bottom Line: Overall, I think that the Dreamtreaders series would be an excellent choice for children who fall into the older elementary through middle grades age brackets. They will enjoy the geared-for-their-level humor and writing style and will be able to identify easily with the main and secondary characters. I hesitate to recommend the series for adults; I just don’t feel it will hold their interest. On the other hand, reading the books together – parent and child – would be a wonderful way to incorporate the series into a family library.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
I do think the concept for the series is wonderfully creative – a young teen is part of a very select group of people set apart for a specific purpose, defeating the Nightmare Lord before he can wreak havoc on the Waking World. Let me be the first to assure you; this isn’t some cutesy, mamby-pamby dream villain either. The dude is evil. The other villains that pop up over the course of the series are just as evil … and they must be stopped – with greater urgency as the books progress. By War for the Waking World, and after several surprising and imaginative twists, we are at critical mass.
The spiritual analogies are subtle, much like Narnia or LOTR, but they are clearly present. I love finding parallels and deeper meanings when I read speculative fiction! Besides the obvious themes of good and evil, there is a distinct emphasis in book 3 on the manipulative nature of our enemy as well as his role as our accuser. And just for good measure, here’s my personal favorite message in War for the Waking World – avoid television, read a book. Seriously. You never know when it might save your intelligence. :)
On the other hand, I just couldn’t stay engaged. Dreamtreader (book 1) drops you in the middle of action already in progress and doesn’t explain what’s happening. In fact, I wondered briefly if either a) I had mistakenly assumed this was the first book or b) there was another prologue somewhere that my copy was missing or c) Archer was playing a video game. Slowly, the pieces began to come together, but I didn’t like being confused and left without answers. Unlike Harry Potter or The Chronicles of Narnia or even the LOTR books, there was no “fish out of water” character that needed the back story explained (well, except me). And the narrator wasn’t sympathetic to my predicament. The result? The author left the readers to catch up on their own, which in my opinion can lead to needless frustration, confusion, and disconnect. Each book begins this way, building off the previous ending, so readers really do need to follow the series in order.
Additionally, the characters seemed flat and I frequently found myself irritated at their lack of reaction/emotion to the situations in which they found themselves. Along those same lines, the narrative also felt flat. It tended to tell me details rather than showing them to me, though I do feel that this much improved in War for the Waking World.
Bottom Line: Overall, I think that the Dreamtreaders series would be an excellent choice for children who fall into the older elementary through middle grades age brackets. They will enjoy the geared-for-their-level humor and writing style and will be able to identify easily with the main and secondary characters. I hesitate to recommend the series for adults; I just don’t feel it will hold their interest. On the other hand, reading the books together – parent and child – would be a wonderful way to incorporate the series into a family library.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
December 18, 2015
3 & 1/2 stars.
Wayne Thomas Batson burst onto the publishing scene ten years ago with a "Narnia-esque" novel, The Door Within and quickly established himself as one of the top Christian Speculative authors for middle grade fiction. While I don't think this is his best work (in my opinion, that goes to his Pirate Adventures books), War for the Waking World concludes a fast paced, contemporary fantasy trilogy, ideal for reluctant readers.
The primary reason I categorize this novel as being for middle grade reluctant readers are the chapter lengths. Similar to Jennifer A. Nielsen's Ascendance trilogy, each chapter is no longer than ten pages. Much like the Ascendance trilogy and other general market novels aimed at reluctant readers, the story is tight, fast paced, and has lots of action. With the merging of our world with the Dream realm, it's not just Dreamtreaders and Lucid Walkers that can create things with their minds, but ordinary people as well. Not cognizant of this power, what some conjure up in their dreams or nightmares come to life in the real world, producing chaos akin to Mr. Stay Puft (a.k.a. the marshmallow man) from the cult classic Ghostbusters film and that of a more wicked variety.
Because of the quickened pace and shorter chapters, I felt that Batson's character development was a bit weaker compared to some of his previous work. I personally struggled to connect to characters because none of them really stood out to me. It seemed like I got to know the characters and their motivations at a basic level, receiving depth when only relevant to the plot or story. However, this could be because I am not in this novel's target group.
Despite this, Archer is a likable protagonist. He has faults and struggles like any 15-year-old boy and I loved his relationship with his siblings (I'm a sucker for older brother characters). Kaylie, his prodigious younger sister, was my favorite character - adorable and precocious, yet with mannerisms to remind you that she's still 8-years-old. I won't discuss other characters as not to spoil, but there is enough character development for a satisfying story.
I highly suggest reading the first two novels, Dreamtreaders and Search for the Shadow Key, to fully understand what's going on --this isn't a stand alone novel! With an intriguing premise and solid world-building, young readers might enjoy this trilogy with allusions to spiritual warfare and a subtle faith-based thread or worldview.
Content notes: Typical fantasy violence --especially in the first two novels, some scenes are kind of intense when you think about what's happening, but since most of it happened in the "dream world" I give it a pass, but it did give me pause. Nothing graphic, but I'd describe some of it as psychological torture (though it's never seen).
[Disclosure: I received a copy of this book as a member of the Litfuse Blogger Program for review purposes.]
Wayne Thomas Batson burst onto the publishing scene ten years ago with a "Narnia-esque" novel, The Door Within and quickly established himself as one of the top Christian Speculative authors for middle grade fiction. While I don't think this is his best work (in my opinion, that goes to his Pirate Adventures books), War for the Waking World concludes a fast paced, contemporary fantasy trilogy, ideal for reluctant readers.
The primary reason I categorize this novel as being for middle grade reluctant readers are the chapter lengths. Similar to Jennifer A. Nielsen's Ascendance trilogy, each chapter is no longer than ten pages. Much like the Ascendance trilogy and other general market novels aimed at reluctant readers, the story is tight, fast paced, and has lots of action. With the merging of our world with the Dream realm, it's not just Dreamtreaders and Lucid Walkers that can create things with their minds, but ordinary people as well. Not cognizant of this power, what some conjure up in their dreams or nightmares come to life in the real world, producing chaos akin to Mr. Stay Puft (a.k.a. the marshmallow man) from the cult classic Ghostbusters film and that of a more wicked variety.
Because of the quickened pace and shorter chapters, I felt that Batson's character development was a bit weaker compared to some of his previous work. I personally struggled to connect to characters because none of them really stood out to me. It seemed like I got to know the characters and their motivations at a basic level, receiving depth when only relevant to the plot or story. However, this could be because I am not in this novel's target group.
Despite this, Archer is a likable protagonist. He has faults and struggles like any 15-year-old boy and I loved his relationship with his siblings (I'm a sucker for older brother characters). Kaylie, his prodigious younger sister, was my favorite character - adorable and precocious, yet with mannerisms to remind you that she's still 8-years-old. I won't discuss other characters as not to spoil, but there is enough character development for a satisfying story.
I highly suggest reading the first two novels, Dreamtreaders and Search for the Shadow Key, to fully understand what's going on --this isn't a stand alone novel! With an intriguing premise and solid world-building, young readers might enjoy this trilogy with allusions to spiritual warfare and a subtle faith-based thread or worldview.
Content notes: Typical fantasy violence --especially in the first two novels, some scenes are kind of intense when you think about what's happening, but since most of it happened in the "dream world" I give it a pass, but it did give me pause. Nothing graphic, but I'd describe some of it as psychological torture (though it's never seen).
[Disclosure: I received a copy of this book as a member of the Litfuse Blogger Program for review purposes.]
March 28, 2016
Review @ Book Is Glee
Here is a quick few things for why this book is awesome:
1. IT’S DREAM WALKER, PEEPS!! That can never goes wrong!
2. Talk about delicious action combo…
3. “…fast-paced conclusion to the exciting fantasy trilogy…”
4. No. 3 doesn’t lie, trust me.
THE PROS — It’s been a great journey with our Dreamtreader Archer, and I have to say, that was one epic ending there. The author did an amazing job on creating a very vivid and imaginary world of dreams, and let’s not forget, the gripping “nightmares”. Yes, there are people with ultimate power when the sun comes down. Yes, there sure are a lot of enthralling actions, dreams within dreams. And yes, there are creatures of the dark that you shouldn’t mess with, but can’t seem to stop yourself from losing to that awesome imaginary world. So beware…
THE CONS — While there are countless of awesome things I can tell you about The War for the Waking World, there are parts that fell short for me. The characters are quite…dull, and the narrative seemed flat, with mostly “telling details” than what you might call “in depth looks”. I know since this is written for younger readers, the voice still possess some juvenile vibes. However, since our protagonist here is a Dreamtreader, one of the three chosen ones in a generation, who happens to save the world from the Nightmare Lord (that’s a lot of responsibility there for a 15-year-old), I think it would be better to give him a more mature inner thoughts.
Overall, it was quite an interesting read for me. I would recommend it for Middle Grades fan, and I know for sure some of my nephews will love this book to death.
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way can affect my opinion on the book and its content.
-o-o-o-
Here is a quick few things for why this book is awesome:
1. IT’S DREAM WALKER, PEEPS!! That can never goes wrong!
2. Talk about delicious action combo…
3. “…fast-paced conclusion to the exciting fantasy trilogy…”
4. No. 3 doesn’t lie, trust me.
THE PROS — It’s been a great journey with our Dreamtreader Archer, and I have to say, that was one epic ending there. The author did an amazing job on creating a very vivid and imaginary world of dreams, and let’s not forget, the gripping “nightmares”. Yes, there are people with ultimate power when the sun comes down. Yes, there sure are a lot of enthralling actions, dreams within dreams. And yes, there are creatures of the dark that you shouldn’t mess with, but can’t seem to stop yourself from losing to that awesome imaginary world. So beware…
THE CONS — While there are countless of awesome things I can tell you about The War for the Waking World, there are parts that fell short for me. The characters are quite…dull, and the narrative seemed flat, with mostly “telling details” than what you might call “in depth looks”. I know since this is written for younger readers, the voice still possess some juvenile vibes. However, since our protagonist here is a Dreamtreader, one of the three chosen ones in a generation, who happens to save the world from the Nightmare Lord (that’s a lot of responsibility there for a 15-year-old), I think it would be better to give him a more mature inner thoughts.
Overall, it was quite an interesting read for me. I would recommend it for Middle Grades fan, and I know for sure some of my nephews will love this book to death.
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way can affect my opinion on the book and its content.
-o-o-o-
November 3, 2015
About the Book:
Would you be willing to fight for your dreams?
Fifteen-year-old Archer Keaton has the ability to enter and explore his dreams. He is a Dreamtreader, one of three selected from each generation. Their mission: to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord who dwells beyond the Slumber Gate. But as Archer s dreams become more dangerous and threatening, so too does his waking life.
In this fast-paced conclusion to the exciting fantasy trilogy, the dream world and the waking world bleed into each other when a rift is formed between the two. People in the real world suddenly find their waking lives resemble their wildest dreams. Now it s up to Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders to race to reverse the rift before too much damage is done and to battle Archer s ex-best friend, Kara, who sits on the throne of the Nightmare Lord. Kara is building an army of her own. Will Archer be strong enough to stand against her?"
My Review:
Archer Keaton has th ability to enter dreams. And being a Dreamtreader he has seen many crazy things but never have they been as crazy as what is in front of him now. The world has went crazy, humans now have the same abilities as those of the Dreamtreaders. Monsters rampage the cities and nightmares are around every corner. Archer, his little sister, and Razz the flying squirrel are the only ones there that can help, but there seems to be something else at work.
Archer soon learns that someone has many charges against him. But with the world going nuts, who has time for that. With the help of many Dreamtreaders, he must hunt down the one person that has caused it all. The one person that has too much power in their hands. The one person he never wanted to see again. His ex-best friend, Kara, has an army rising and will stop at nothing to see Archer dead.
War for the Waking World is book three iin the Dreamtreaders series. This book was an epic read full of adventure. I have grown to love this series and really hate to see it end. But the author did a wonderful job on this book and I loved every second of it.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse.
Would you be willing to fight for your dreams?
Fifteen-year-old Archer Keaton has the ability to enter and explore his dreams. He is a Dreamtreader, one of three selected from each generation. Their mission: to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord who dwells beyond the Slumber Gate. But as Archer s dreams become more dangerous and threatening, so too does his waking life.
In this fast-paced conclusion to the exciting fantasy trilogy, the dream world and the waking world bleed into each other when a rift is formed between the two. People in the real world suddenly find their waking lives resemble their wildest dreams. Now it s up to Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders to race to reverse the rift before too much damage is done and to battle Archer s ex-best friend, Kara, who sits on the throne of the Nightmare Lord. Kara is building an army of her own. Will Archer be strong enough to stand against her?"
My Review:
Archer Keaton has th ability to enter dreams. And being a Dreamtreader he has seen many crazy things but never have they been as crazy as what is in front of him now. The world has went crazy, humans now have the same abilities as those of the Dreamtreaders. Monsters rampage the cities and nightmares are around every corner. Archer, his little sister, and Razz the flying squirrel are the only ones there that can help, but there seems to be something else at work.
Archer soon learns that someone has many charges against him. But with the world going nuts, who has time for that. With the help of many Dreamtreaders, he must hunt down the one person that has caused it all. The one person that has too much power in their hands. The one person he never wanted to see again. His ex-best friend, Kara, has an army rising and will stop at nothing to see Archer dead.
War for the Waking World is book three iin the Dreamtreaders series. This book was an epic read full of adventure. I have grown to love this series and really hate to see it end. But the author did a wonderful job on this book and I loved every second of it.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Litfuse.
January 18, 2016
Archer Percival Keaton (15, Dreamtreader) must not only monitor his own dreams, but others as well. His job is to make sure the evil Nightmare Lord does not cause everyone more nightmares than good dreams.
Master Gabriel oversees the chosen Dreamtreader’s. There are 9 laws (creed) a Dreamtreader must abide by.
If they are not abided by he/she must appear before High Chief Justice Michael (Archelion) & the court.
Kara Windchil (student, Archer’s ex-BFF) is part of the Nightmare Lord’s throne/kingdom (Slumber Gate).
She also had her own domain known as the Harlequin Veil. Frederick (Dream Inc. employee) assist her.
Kara & Rigby Thames (Doc’s nephew) were once involved with Dream Inc. (Antietam Creek Building, Baltimore, MD)
Fast forward Bezeal (Dream Realm, immortal) has brought charges against Archer Keaton so now he is on trial.
Kara & Bezeal (merchant) also have plans of their own.
Doc Scoville (aka Lurker, Uncle Scovy) is helping the Dreamtreader’s: Kaylie Keaton (8, sister), Nick Bushman, Mesmeera, Duncan, Rigby, & Archer with their R & D matters.
What is the Shadow Key?
Who is Patches?
What is the Rift?
Will Kara prevail?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written HS teen fantasy trilogy book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great HS-age-above fantasy movie, animated cartoon, or mini TV series. Not my normal read but I got caught up in it. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Harper/Collins (Thomas Nelson); Autographed; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Master Gabriel oversees the chosen Dreamtreader’s. There are 9 laws (creed) a Dreamtreader must abide by.
If they are not abided by he/she must appear before High Chief Justice Michael (Archelion) & the court.
Kara Windchil (student, Archer’s ex-BFF) is part of the Nightmare Lord’s throne/kingdom (Slumber Gate).
She also had her own domain known as the Harlequin Veil. Frederick (Dream Inc. employee) assist her.
Kara & Rigby Thames (Doc’s nephew) were once involved with Dream Inc. (Antietam Creek Building, Baltimore, MD)
Fast forward Bezeal (Dream Realm, immortal) has brought charges against Archer Keaton so now he is on trial.
Kara & Bezeal (merchant) also have plans of their own.
Doc Scoville (aka Lurker, Uncle Scovy) is helping the Dreamtreader’s: Kaylie Keaton (8, sister), Nick Bushman, Mesmeera, Duncan, Rigby, & Archer with their R & D matters.
What is the Shadow Key?
Who is Patches?
What is the Rift?
Will Kara prevail?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written HS teen fantasy trilogy book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great HS-age-above fantasy movie, animated cartoon, or mini TV series. Not my normal read but I got caught up in it. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Harper/Collins (Thomas Nelson); Autographed; paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
January 2, 2016
War for the Waking World
Dreamtreaders #3
By Wayne Thomas Batson
A Dream Come True...
Can Be a Real Nightmare
Archer Keaton has been a Dreamtreader for several years and on occasion been known to work around the rules to get the job done. But his past is about to catch up to him at the worst possible time - the Rift has torn through into the Waking World and reality and the dream have mixed together. But can Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders repair the damage before it becomes irreversible?
But Archer has an enemy working against him even more dangerous than the recently defeated Nightmare Lord. And his one-time-best friend Kara has most certainly betrayed him both within the Dream and without.
Archer, Kaylie, and Nick are about to engage in a war for the waking world and time is running out. With some unexpected allies they just may have a chance to reverse the Rift, but there is a cost to just such an undertaking but the survival of the world depends on them.
The War for the Waking World is the concluding book in the Dreamtreaders series and it is an adventure packed book that will keep you guessing at the ultimate outcome until the very end. This is a series that you must read in order to 1) follow the series and 2) to truly know who the various characters are. This book is targeted to the juvenile audience but fans of fantasy will appreciate this story and its complexity.
I would recommend both the book and the series for ages 12 and up (or younger readers who are advanced readers). Perfect if you're looking for a book to occupy the kids when they get bored with our wacky winter weather. Would also be a great family read-aloud book for some good quality family time.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.
Dreamtreaders #3
By Wayne Thomas Batson
A Dream Come True...
Can Be a Real Nightmare
Archer Keaton has been a Dreamtreader for several years and on occasion been known to work around the rules to get the job done. But his past is about to catch up to him at the worst possible time - the Rift has torn through into the Waking World and reality and the dream have mixed together. But can Archer and his fellow Dreamtreaders repair the damage before it becomes irreversible?
But Archer has an enemy working against him even more dangerous than the recently defeated Nightmare Lord. And his one-time-best friend Kara has most certainly betrayed him both within the Dream and without.
Archer, Kaylie, and Nick are about to engage in a war for the waking world and time is running out. With some unexpected allies they just may have a chance to reverse the Rift, but there is a cost to just such an undertaking but the survival of the world depends on them.
The War for the Waking World is the concluding book in the Dreamtreaders series and it is an adventure packed book that will keep you guessing at the ultimate outcome until the very end. This is a series that you must read in order to 1) follow the series and 2) to truly know who the various characters are. This book is targeted to the juvenile audience but fans of fantasy will appreciate this story and its complexity.
I would recommend both the book and the series for ages 12 and up (or younger readers who are advanced readers). Perfect if you're looking for a book to occupy the kids when they get bored with our wacky winter weather. Would also be a great family read-aloud book for some good quality family time.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.
February 19, 2016
RATING 3.5 - 3.75 STARS...
I’ll try to avoid spoilers, but if you’ve made it this far, you should already understand the concept of dream treading, the fabric between the dream world and reality, and the threat that has caused a rift between the worlds. Does this signify the rise of a new Nightmare Lord? Will the worlds collide and cause irreparable damage to our very existence? Do I sound enough like that old Batman announcer, yet?
All these questions (except the Batman one) are addressed in THE WAR FOR THE WAKING WORLD. Unfortunately, as a reader, you pretty much know most of the answers before you read them. Knowing that this is book three of the trilogy and that resolution is guaranteed, you can easily predict enough to make the ending a foregone conclusion. That’s not to say that it doesn’t work or that it’s not worth reading, just that it’s not as thrilling as it perhaps could have been. Which also makes it less memorable, which is also why I had to refresh my memory before writing this even though I finished the book just a couple weeks ago.
I did enjoy this series quite a bit, but it began to unwind a bit during this finale. Batson introduced a handful of additional plot lines here that distracted from the focus of the story and weakened the effect. It almost felt like there was a specific page count required and, knowing he couldn’t get there with what he had (though I beg to differ) he cast a wider net before reigning in the story. This also messed with the pacing of the book, which hadn’t been an issue in the previous two books.
Ultimately, the Dreamtreaders series is a worthwhile venture, but by the end, you kind of have to work at remembering why. I definitely recommend it, just be prepared for a wild ride that uses every gear available.
I’ll try to avoid spoilers, but if you’ve made it this far, you should already understand the concept of dream treading, the fabric between the dream world and reality, and the threat that has caused a rift between the worlds. Does this signify the rise of a new Nightmare Lord? Will the worlds collide and cause irreparable damage to our very existence? Do I sound enough like that old Batman announcer, yet?
All these questions (except the Batman one) are addressed in THE WAR FOR THE WAKING WORLD. Unfortunately, as a reader, you pretty much know most of the answers before you read them. Knowing that this is book three of the trilogy and that resolution is guaranteed, you can easily predict enough to make the ending a foregone conclusion. That’s not to say that it doesn’t work or that it’s not worth reading, just that it’s not as thrilling as it perhaps could have been. Which also makes it less memorable, which is also why I had to refresh my memory before writing this even though I finished the book just a couple weeks ago.
I did enjoy this series quite a bit, but it began to unwind a bit during this finale. Batson introduced a handful of additional plot lines here that distracted from the focus of the story and weakened the effect. It almost felt like there was a specific page count required and, knowing he couldn’t get there with what he had (though I beg to differ) he cast a wider net before reigning in the story. This also messed with the pacing of the book, which hadn’t been an issue in the previous two books.
Ultimately, the Dreamtreaders series is a worthwhile venture, but by the end, you kind of have to work at remembering why. I definitely recommend it, just be prepared for a wild ride that uses every gear available.
March 2, 2016
Would you be willing to fight for your dreams?
Fifteen-year-old Archer Keaton has the ability to enter and explore his dreams. He is a Dreamtreader, one of three selected from each generation. Their mission: to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord who dwells beyond the Slumber Gate. But as Archer’s dreams become more dangerous and threatening, so too does his waking life.
This is the conclusion to a three-book journey. I was given this book for a review by BookLook Bloggers, but I fear my review may not do it any justice. I haven't a clue as to the other book's actions. I don't really know Archer either. In a way, it was wrong to have this one without the entire story, but I read it.
To me, the book felt like a mixing of an original story and Narnya. There were Christian undertones and a bit of action, all of which I appreciated, but I didn't really feel what I should have for the story, due to coming in on the very ending. Imagine watching The Battle of the Five Armies (Lord of the Rings) and never viewing the previous five movies. Or reading the books even! You'd have a good show, but you'd never truly understand the journey or even the victory because you didn't know the story and the journeys involved. I couldn't become emotionally invested.
Please don't misunderstand, the War for the Waking World by Wayne Thomas Batson, was an adventure, but not one I'm even concerned with checking out (the previous books) because now I know the ending!
Onward... towards the next book!
http://tinyurl.com/zflqx8l
**Book provided by BookLook Bloggers, for an honest review.
Fifteen-year-old Archer Keaton has the ability to enter and explore his dreams. He is a Dreamtreader, one of three selected from each generation. Their mission: to protect the waking world from the Nightmare Lord who dwells beyond the Slumber Gate. But as Archer’s dreams become more dangerous and threatening, so too does his waking life.
This is the conclusion to a three-book journey. I was given this book for a review by BookLook Bloggers, but I fear my review may not do it any justice. I haven't a clue as to the other book's actions. I don't really know Archer either. In a way, it was wrong to have this one without the entire story, but I read it.
To me, the book felt like a mixing of an original story and Narnya. There were Christian undertones and a bit of action, all of which I appreciated, but I didn't really feel what I should have for the story, due to coming in on the very ending. Imagine watching The Battle of the Five Armies (Lord of the Rings) and never viewing the previous five movies. Or reading the books even! You'd have a good show, but you'd never truly understand the journey or even the victory because you didn't know the story and the journeys involved. I couldn't become emotionally invested.
Please don't misunderstand, the War for the Waking World by Wayne Thomas Batson, was an adventure, but not one I'm even concerned with checking out (the previous books) because now I know the ending!
Onward... towards the next book!
http://tinyurl.com/zflqx8l
**Book provided by BookLook Bloggers, for an honest review.
January 14, 2016
The book for review is “War For The Waking World- Dreamtreaders Book 3 by Wayne Thomas Batson. This book falls in the genre of juvenile fiction, action adventure and fantasy.
Meet Archer Keaton, he is a Dreamtreader as well as his eight year old sister. In this volume the dream world and the waking world are starting to merge, dreams are getting more vivid and dangerous for those around him. It is up to his sister and he to close the rift between the two world.
Standing in his way is Kara, one who is powerful in her own right. But that isn’t all. Archer is on trial for breaking some of the rules of the code all Dreamtreaders live by. Yet he and his sister need to save the world and all who they love and hold dear. Time is of the essence.
First I have to say I honestly thought this was volume 1 when I requested it, so I am coming into this series two books behind.
I was able to catch up easily from what I missed. I had a good sense of what the series was about from the first few pages. However I was not a fan of the family dynamics. The father, a widow and raising two children, seemed to listen to his son and daughter, They were the ones who made the suggestions, who lead the group. I did not like in some dialogue how the children talked to him. They appeared to be the ones in charge. Unless I missed something from the previous volumes that would explain why it was this way.
The action was fast pace and the pages moved quickly. It is a good book for the age group this book is in. This book was received for free in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Archer Keaton, he is a Dreamtreader as well as his eight year old sister. In this volume the dream world and the waking world are starting to merge, dreams are getting more vivid and dangerous for those around him. It is up to his sister and he to close the rift between the two world.
Standing in his way is Kara, one who is powerful in her own right. But that isn’t all. Archer is on trial for breaking some of the rules of the code all Dreamtreaders live by. Yet he and his sister need to save the world and all who they love and hold dear. Time is of the essence.
First I have to say I honestly thought this was volume 1 when I requested it, so I am coming into this series two books behind.
I was able to catch up easily from what I missed. I had a good sense of what the series was about from the first few pages. However I was not a fan of the family dynamics. The father, a widow and raising two children, seemed to listen to his son and daughter, They were the ones who made the suggestions, who lead the group. I did not like in some dialogue how the children talked to him. They appeared to be the ones in charge. Unless I missed something from the previous volumes that would explain why it was this way.
The action was fast pace and the pages moved quickly. It is a good book for the age group this book is in. This book was received for free in exchange for an honest review.
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