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We Met in Dreams
In Victorian London, during a prolonged and pernicious fog, fantasy and reality are about to collide—at least in one man’s troubled mind. A childhood fever left Arthur Middleton, Viscount Campden, seeing and hearing things no one else does, afraid of the world outside, and unable to function as a true peer of the realm. To protect him from himself—and to protect others from him—he spends his days heavily medicated and locked in his rooms, and his nights in darkness and solitude, tormented by visions, until a stranger appears. This apparition is different. Fox says he’s a thief and not an entirely good sort of man, yet he returns night after night to ease Arthur’s loneliness without asking for anything in return. Fox might be the key that sets Arthur free, or he might deliver the final blow to Arthur’s tenuous grasp on sanity. Either way, real or imaginary, Arthur needs him too much to care. Fox is only one of the many secrets and specters haunting Campden House, and Arthur will have to face them all in order to live the life of his dreams.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 16, 2017
*4.5 stars*
Rowan McAllister penned a beautiful, atmospheric story in We Met in Dreams, one that will stick with me for a long time.
We Met in Dreams was actually my first book from this author, but it was so great that I'll be watching for anything from her in the future. This was gorgeous, honestly, and I didn't want to put it down.
I'm a huge historical romance fan, but I was a little anxious about this one from the blurb. It sounded... dark, which always makes me nervous. I'm not a suspense reader or a horror reader, and I didn't want this book to venture too far towards creepy. Rest assured, it doesn't.
I really loved this story. Some stories are just fluff pieces, and there is a time and place for that, but this one was a thinker. I was so interested in the treatment of someone with a perceived mental illness, and what the "cures" were considered to be at the time.
Arthur Middleton was a fascinating character. Whether or not his auditory and visual hallucinations were "real" is based on perception, but what was wonderful to me was the inside look we had into Authur's mind. His wanting to please his uncle and head servant and not bother anyone, combined with his desire for more of a life, more of a presence, was both heart-breaking and enthralling. I was rooting for each small victory, and I felt like I got to know Arthur so well. I just adored him. He was innocent yet cultured, and he was so appealing in his honesty and bravery. Adored.
The romance was a strong one, but we never get inside Fox's head, which left me feeling a little removed from him as a character. However, I really enjoyed Fox's backstory, and I understood his motivations and personality completely. In terms of heat, the steam was only moderate, but we get a total, never-been-kissed virgin, so I was a happy camper! I'm easy to please...
The ending was a little hurried, but the beautiful writing and the total sense of time and place more than made up for it. I would have liked to see how Fox and Arthur handled more of the details between them at the end of the story, but I'll just have to let my imagination take over.
I loved the forward for this book, and it is true that we don't often see books with MCs with mental illnesses. To all those who fight a daily battle that no one sees. Fight on. Just perfect. I loved seeing Arthur's fight, and Rowan McAllister can write MCs fighting on any day of the week and I'll read it.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
Rowan McAllister penned a beautiful, atmospheric story in We Met in Dreams, one that will stick with me for a long time.
We Met in Dreams was actually my first book from this author, but it was so great that I'll be watching for anything from her in the future. This was gorgeous, honestly, and I didn't want to put it down.
I'm a huge historical romance fan, but I was a little anxious about this one from the blurb. It sounded... dark, which always makes me nervous. I'm not a suspense reader or a horror reader, and I didn't want this book to venture too far towards creepy. Rest assured, it doesn't.
I really loved this story. Some stories are just fluff pieces, and there is a time and place for that, but this one was a thinker. I was so interested in the treatment of someone with a perceived mental illness, and what the "cures" were considered to be at the time.
Arthur Middleton was a fascinating character. Whether or not his auditory and visual hallucinations were "real" is based on perception, but what was wonderful to me was the inside look we had into Authur's mind. His wanting to please his uncle and head servant and not bother anyone, combined with his desire for more of a life, more of a presence, was both heart-breaking and enthralling. I was rooting for each small victory, and I felt like I got to know Arthur so well. I just adored him. He was innocent yet cultured, and he was so appealing in his honesty and bravery. Adored.
The romance was a strong one, but we never get inside Fox's head, which left me feeling a little removed from him as a character. However, I really enjoyed Fox's backstory, and I understood his motivations and personality completely. In terms of heat, the steam was only moderate, but we get a total, never-been-kissed virgin, so I was a happy camper! I'm easy to please...
The ending was a little hurried, but the beautiful writing and the total sense of time and place more than made up for it. I would have liked to see how Fox and Arthur handled more of the details between them at the end of the story, but I'll just have to let my imagination take over.
I loved the forward for this book, and it is true that we don't often see books with MCs with mental illnesses. To all those who fight a daily battle that no one sees. Fight on. Just perfect. I loved seeing Arthur's fight, and Rowan McAllister can write MCs fighting on any day of the week and I'll read it.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
September 25, 2024
Well if that doesn't just bugger all. How am I supposed to rate this?
You read a couple thousand novels, you see a lot of different ways to land an ending. And you see a boatload of authorial stunts — some of which succeed, some of which fall flat. But I can't recall ever seeing a novel (a solo novel, without a follow-up pending) just STOP at an arbitrary point, as if in the middle of a chapter.* As if the author just got tired of the story, put the manuscript down, and walked away. As if they simply could not be bothered to finish it...
This book was a 4-star (or at least a 3.5 that I planned to round up to 4) until that last page. At first I thought: Cliffhanger! And I was angry. But no, it turns out that would have been the good explanation — because "cliffhanger" implies more will be coming, that the story will be continued in another book. This is actually worse than a cliffhanger, because the story just ends. It just stops, in a random place. Like, in the middle of a scene.
Okay, so enough griping about that. (For the moment.) How was the rest of the book? Well, I discovered early on that I absolutely hate reading about a protagonist who’s trapped, helpless, and completely at the mercy of others. I didn’t intend to let that influence my rating, though, since it’s a personal quirk and not a reflection on the book itself. But enough about me — how was the book?
The book was good. The quality of the writing was high, and Arthur and Fox made for a fresh and engaging couple. The villain was also intriguing . It was unclear for some time whether the paranormal element was a genuine phenomenon or a hoax, and I liked the uncertainty that created.
But at 90%, a major complication was introduced into the romance. A MAJOR complication. Like a reset-the-relationship-back-to-zero complication. There needed to be time to incorporate that development, to explore its implications, to repair the relationship. But no. The author just walked away mid-scene.
I have to say, I did not like it. I invested hours into reading this book and becoming attached to these characters. I was repaid with a story that just stopped arbitrarily, and not in an attempt to achieve some special literary effect, but because... Well, honestly, who knows why...? I sure don't.
So I'm giving this 3 stars. And I would NEVER recommend it to anyone without first warning them about the non-ending ending.
*Oh wait, I realized that I HAVE seen this type of wandering off in the middle of the story before. The Tale of Genji, written almost exactly one thousand years ago, also just up and ended. Scholars debate whether there are chapters missing, or if that was indeed the intended conclusion. But as Genji is considered by many to be the first novel ever written, I'm inclined to cut it some slack. Plus, by the time page 1000 had come and gone, it seemed greedy of me to keep wanting more. But We Met In Dreams is no Tale of Genji, and given that we're one thousand years further along in the craft of novel writing, I honestly don't think there's an excuse for leaving readers hanging like this.
You read a couple thousand novels, you see a lot of different ways to land an ending. And you see a boatload of authorial stunts — some of which succeed, some of which fall flat. But I can't recall ever seeing a novel (a solo novel, without a follow-up pending) just STOP at an arbitrary point, as if in the middle of a chapter.* As if the author just got tired of the story, put the manuscript down, and walked away. As if they simply could not be bothered to finish it...
This book was a 4-star (or at least a 3.5 that I planned to round up to 4) until that last page. At first I thought: Cliffhanger! And I was angry. But no, it turns out that would have been the good explanation — because "cliffhanger" implies more will be coming, that the story will be continued in another book. This is actually worse than a cliffhanger, because the story just ends. It just stops, in a random place. Like, in the middle of a scene.
Okay, so enough griping about that. (For the moment.) How was the rest of the book? Well, I discovered early on that I absolutely hate reading about a protagonist who’s trapped, helpless, and completely at the mercy of others. I didn’t intend to let that influence my rating, though, since it’s a personal quirk and not a reflection on the book itself. But enough about me — how was the book?
The book was good. The quality of the writing was high, and Arthur and Fox made for a fresh and engaging couple. The villain was also intriguing . It was unclear for some time whether the paranormal element was a genuine phenomenon or a hoax, and I liked the uncertainty that created.
But at 90%, a major complication was introduced into the romance. A MAJOR complication. Like a reset-the-relationship-back-to-zero complication. There needed to be time to incorporate that development, to explore its implications, to repair the relationship. But no. The author just walked away mid-scene.
I have to say, I did not like it. I invested hours into reading this book and becoming attached to these characters. I was repaid with a story that just stopped arbitrarily, and not in an attempt to achieve some special literary effect, but because... Well, honestly, who knows why...? I sure don't.
So I'm giving this 3 stars. And I would NEVER recommend it to anyone without first warning them about the non-ending ending.
*Oh wait, I realized that I HAVE seen this type of wandering off in the middle of the story before. The Tale of Genji, written almost exactly one thousand years ago, also just up and ended. Scholars debate whether there are chapters missing, or if that was indeed the intended conclusion. But as Genji is considered by many to be the first novel ever written, I'm inclined to cut it some slack. Plus, by the time page 1000 had come and gone, it seemed greedy of me to keep wanting more. But We Met In Dreams is no Tale of Genji, and given that we're one thousand years further along in the craft of novel writing, I honestly don't think there's an excuse for leaving readers hanging like this.
February 27, 2017
Arthur Middleton, Viscount Campden, has lived his life inside the confinement of his room for the past ten years. Suffering from illness of the mind after childhood fever, Arthur spends his days heavily medicated, as a way to deal with things that only he can hear or see. The one night, a hallucination in form of a stranger that calls himself Fox appears inside Arthur’s room…
Because of Arthur’s illness, the story takes place almost 90% inside Campden House, most notably his room. But Speedwell is able to not make the story feel claustrophobic. Instead it makes readers gain insight into Arthur’s situation over the last decade. My heart ached for Arthur and I got teary eyed a time or two.
I, as a reader, definitely felt for the young viscount. While Fox is basically the reason that Arthur finally takes the steps forward to get the ‘better’ life, I thought Fox only nudged him to do so. It’s Arthur’s determination that breaks himself out of the life he lives. Every time Arthur is able to gain small victory, step by little step, I felt like my heart burst in pride.
If I use one word to describe what I think of We Met in Dreams , I will definitely use “gorgeous”. The atmosphere, the story, the romance … with Arthur being a virgin that has minimal interaction with the outside world, the romance he has with Fox feels sweet and innocent at the same time. Not that Fox is innocent — he is older, more experienced for sure – but this story is written from Arthur’s point of view, and that what makes it feels that way.
I just can’t rate it higher because, well, I had expectations of something more sinister in play. Sorry, it’s the mystery/suspense lover in me … I couldn’t stop thinking of the movie Rebecca, as well as Gaslight (haven’t seen this one but I know the premise) the whole time I was reading this. I expected something more like both and was feeling disappointed that I didn’t get it.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Because of Arthur’s illness, the story takes place almost 90% inside Campden House, most notably his room. But Speedwell is able to not make the story feel claustrophobic. Instead it makes readers gain insight into Arthur’s situation over the last decade. My heart ached for Arthur and I got teary eyed a time or two.
I, as a reader, definitely felt for the young viscount. While Fox is basically the reason that Arthur finally takes the steps forward to get the ‘better’ life, I thought Fox only nudged him to do so. It’s Arthur’s determination that breaks himself out of the life he lives. Every time Arthur is able to gain small victory, step by little step, I felt like my heart burst in pride.
If I use one word to describe what I think of We Met in Dreams , I will definitely use “gorgeous”. The atmosphere, the story, the romance … with Arthur being a virgin that has minimal interaction with the outside world, the romance he has with Fox feels sweet and innocent at the same time. Not that Fox is innocent — he is older, more experienced for sure – but this story is written from Arthur’s point of view, and that what makes it feels that way.
I just can’t rate it higher because, well, I had expectations of something more sinister in play. Sorry, it’s the mystery/suspense lover in me … I couldn’t stop thinking of the movie Rebecca, as well as Gaslight (haven’t seen this one but I know the premise) the whole time I was reading this. I expected something more like both and was feeling disappointed that I didn’t get it.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
July 19, 2017
This is the story of Arthur, a young lord in Victorian London, who lives day in, day out, inside his rooms, never allowed to go outside, because of a mental illness that leaves him overwhelmed every time he has to interact with people.
His family's servants tend to him, so he's actually pretty well off. But he's bored to death and finds himself running in circles in his mind, hoping to some day get better to actually presume his role as lord of the manor, while at the same time seeing images that he knows can't be real and must be a result of his madness.
One of these hallucinations turns out to be a handsome guy who introduces himself as Fox, a thief, coming to relieve Arthur of some of his valuables. However, Fox returns many, many nights to keep lonely Arthur company - and the two fall in love.
The funny thing is...
The mysterious Fox shares an uncanny resemblance to the famous Polish fantasy MC and PS4 game character Geralt of Rivia (aka 'The Witcher'). Am I right?
Unfortunately, I missed the moment when Arthur actually acknowledged that Fox was in fact a real man. While he kept repeating to himself that Fox was just an illusion that he shouldn't pin his hopes on, he began accepting him as a real person sometime throughout the story, but it wasn't the light bulb moment I was looking forward to.
I was also surprised about the outcome of the story. Whereas everything hinted at some strange conspiracy against Arthur, things resolve smoothly in the last few chapters. And even the ghost story aspect that the book slowly built up didn't serve as a climax.
All in all, a solid Victorian romance where things get solved pretty smoothly.
3 stars
His family's servants tend to him, so he's actually pretty well off. But he's bored to death and finds himself running in circles in his mind, hoping to some day get better to actually presume his role as lord of the manor, while at the same time seeing images that he knows can't be real and must be a result of his madness.
One of these hallucinations turns out to be a handsome guy who introduces himself as Fox, a thief, coming to relieve Arthur of some of his valuables. However, Fox returns many, many nights to keep lonely Arthur company - and the two fall in love.
The funny thing is...
The mysterious Fox shares an uncanny resemblance to the famous Polish fantasy MC and PS4 game character Geralt of Rivia (aka 'The Witcher'). Am I right?
Unfortunately, I missed the moment when Arthur actually acknowledged that Fox was in fact a real man. While he kept repeating to himself that Fox was just an illusion that he shouldn't pin his hopes on, he began accepting him as a real person sometime throughout the story, but it wasn't the light bulb moment I was looking forward to.
I was also surprised about the outcome of the story. Whereas everything hinted at some strange conspiracy against Arthur, things resolve smoothly in the last few chapters. And even the ghost story aspect that the book slowly built up didn't serve as a climax.
All in all, a solid Victorian romance where things get solved pretty smoothly.
3 stars
March 1, 2017
4.25 stars
This is my first read by Rowan McAllister, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I got was a wonderfully written book. The prose was evocative without becoming purple, and sucked me right into the story.
It would be hard not to feel for Arthur. His life is a cycle of laudanum, sleeping, reading, self-loathing, and hallucinations. But what’s also obvious from the beginning is Arthur’s resilience. He refuses to let his illness beat him.
Arthur and Fox’s first meeting was a mix of cute and funny. Fox is a gentleman thief, imitating Robin Hood. The book is told from Arthur’s POV, so readers’ only see Fox through Arthur’s eyes. Even so, it’s clear from the beginning that Fox sees Arthur as an equal, not an invalid.
The two are attracted to each other from their first meeting, but it takes them a long time to act on it. They become friends before they become lovers. Fox sneaks into Arthur’s room a few nights a week, and the two spend their time talking, and playing the piano and chess.
I couldn’t help but grin each time Fox showed up in Arthur’s room. Arthur would be filled with so much joy, and Fox clearly couldn’t keep himself away. Fox became Arthur’s personal cheerleader.
Once the two finally give in to the attraction between them, they don’t hold back from each other, either physically or emotionally.
The big stumbling block in the relationship is, of course, Arthur’s illness. Frankly, I didn’t get a clear understanding of exactly what caused Arthur’s periodic hallucinations or how they were cured. There’s an odd paranormal angle too.
The characters in the book didn’t understand either, which made sense given the book is set in the mid-1800s. So I wasn’t as bothered by the ambiguity as I might have been.
However, I thought too much happened in the last 20%. Considering everything that Arthur and Fox had already gone through, it was overkill to put them through even more. The story could have worked just as well without the extra drama at the end.
But that didn’t detract from how much I enjoyed this book. Arthur does get better, and he and Fox do finally get their happy ever after. It’s a HEA that takes into account that they’re two gay men in Victorian England, but it’s a happy ending nonetheless.
If you’re looking for a historical MM with a fair bit of angst but an incredibly sweet romance, I’d recommend ‘We Met in Dreams’!
This is my first read by Rowan McAllister, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I got was a wonderfully written book. The prose was evocative without becoming purple, and sucked me right into the story.
It would be hard not to feel for Arthur. His life is a cycle of laudanum, sleeping, reading, self-loathing, and hallucinations. But what’s also obvious from the beginning is Arthur’s resilience. He refuses to let his illness beat him.
Arthur and Fox’s first meeting was a mix of cute and funny. Fox is a gentleman thief, imitating Robin Hood. The book is told from Arthur’s POV, so readers’ only see Fox through Arthur’s eyes. Even so, it’s clear from the beginning that Fox sees Arthur as an equal, not an invalid.
The two are attracted to each other from their first meeting, but it takes them a long time to act on it. They become friends before they become lovers. Fox sneaks into Arthur’s room a few nights a week, and the two spend their time talking, and playing the piano and chess.
I couldn’t help but grin each time Fox showed up in Arthur’s room. Arthur would be filled with so much joy, and Fox clearly couldn’t keep himself away. Fox became Arthur’s personal cheerleader.
Once the two finally give in to the attraction between them, they don’t hold back from each other, either physically or emotionally.
The big stumbling block in the relationship is, of course, Arthur’s illness. Frankly, I didn’t get a clear understanding of exactly what caused Arthur’s periodic hallucinations or how they were cured. There’s an odd paranormal angle too.
The characters in the book didn’t understand either, which made sense given the book is set in the mid-1800s. So I wasn’t as bothered by the ambiguity as I might have been.
However, I thought too much happened in the last 20%. Considering everything that Arthur and Fox had already gone through, it was overkill to put them through even more. The story could have worked just as well without the extra drama at the end.
But that didn’t detract from how much I enjoyed this book. Arthur does get better, and he and Fox do finally get their happy ever after. It’s a HEA that takes into account that they’re two gay men in Victorian England, but it’s a happy ending nonetheless.
If you’re looking for a historical MM with a fair bit of angst but an incredibly sweet romance, I’d recommend ‘We Met in Dreams’!
February 28, 2017
4.75 stars
Oh so very well done!! I could hardly put this book down, it was just that gripping. I had to know that Arthur was going to be okay. I loved that the story didn't follow a predictable pattern at all. And I especially loved the slow burn of the romance. Very much recommended for those who love historical m/m romance, especially with a bit of a gothic touch to it.
Oh so very well done!! I could hardly put this book down, it was just that gripping. I had to know that Arthur was going to be okay. I loved that the story didn't follow a predictable pattern at all. And I especially loved the slow burn of the romance. Very much recommended for those who love historical m/m romance, especially with a bit of a gothic touch to it.
February 25, 2017
Once upon a time, a thief scales a high tower and finds an angel with golden hair locked away in a small unlit room. The thief rescues the angel and, as Julia Roberts says in Pretty Woman, the angel rescues the thief right back.
While that's the basic plot, We Met in Dreams is a beautifully textured tale, set in Victorian England, unlike any other book I've read in recent memory. Arthur has spent the last ten years of his young life (he's 25) living in a small suite of rooms lovingly attended to by a small staff ... who drug him daily with laudanum and lock him in at night. During the night he regularly hears spectral moans and has hallucinations of a ghostly woman in white. One night a tall man with silver hair appears in his room and Arthur is convinced he's dreamed up this gorgeous apparition whom he names Fox.
Arthur believes he has an "diseased mind" (perhaps what we'd consider severe social anxiety with OCD) but Fox finds him "clever, charming, beautiful, passionate… and stronger than you think." Fox says he's not a good man, but Arthur tells him “You have treated me with nothing but care and kindness. I cannot believe you are as bad as you pretend.”
I don't want to give any more of the story, but I loved the unique plot, the relationship Fox and Arthur carefully build, and the historical setting. My only complaint is the pacing of this book. While only 268 pages, to me it felt much longer and I'm still not entirely sure all the scenes were needed to set the stage. But I realize that other readers may not feel the same.
While reading this story, the words of a song kept going through my head - "Mended" by Matthew West. In part those lyrics read:
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
While that's the basic plot, We Met in Dreams is a beautifully textured tale, set in Victorian England, unlike any other book I've read in recent memory. Arthur has spent the last ten years of his young life (he's 25) living in a small suite of rooms lovingly attended to by a small staff ... who drug him daily with laudanum and lock him in at night. During the night he regularly hears spectral moans and has hallucinations of a ghostly woman in white. One night a tall man with silver hair appears in his room and Arthur is convinced he's dreamed up this gorgeous apparition whom he names Fox.
Arthur believes he has an "diseased mind" (perhaps what we'd consider severe social anxiety with OCD) but Fox finds him "clever, charming, beautiful, passionate… and stronger than you think." Fox says he's not a good man, but Arthur tells him “You have treated me with nothing but care and kindness. I cannot believe you are as bad as you pretend.”
I don't want to give any more of the story, but I loved the unique plot, the relationship Fox and Arthur carefully build, and the historical setting. My only complaint is the pacing of this book. While only 268 pages, to me it felt much longer and I'm still not entirely sure all the scenes were needed to set the stage. But I realize that other readers may not feel the same.
While reading this story, the words of a song kept going through my head - "Mended" by Matthew West. In part those lyrics read:
When you see broken beyond repairThat's the heart of this story - what one person sees as broken or damaged, another sees as mended. I highly recommend this story!
I see healing beyond belief ...
When you see nothing but damaged goods
I see something good in the making ...
When you see wounded, I see mended.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 7, 2017
A thoughtful interesting book full of mystery and intrigue and a slow romance.
From the start I was captured. Arthur was wonderful. I hated how his family left him to live despite their best intentions. I admit I distrusted both his Uncle and the servants. I felt sure at least one of them was responsible. My apologies to Tom who I had marked as the villain.
Fox was perfect. From the start he was engaging and interesting. A perfect rogue hero.
The ending of this one is where I'm torn. While in itself it was well done and gave just that little bit more story, I'm not sure it was needed. But that's just a personal opinion.
While I did skip all the sex scenes it was only because I longed to find out the true mystery. This is a wonderful story that I'm sure to read again in the future.
From the start I was captured. Arthur was wonderful. I hated how his family left him to live despite their best intentions. I admit I distrusted both his Uncle and the servants. I felt sure at least one of them was responsible. My apologies to Tom who I had marked as the villain.
Fox was perfect. From the start he was engaging and interesting. A perfect rogue hero.
The ending of this one is where I'm torn. While in itself it was well done and gave just that little bit more story, I'm not sure it was needed. But that's just a personal opinion.
While I did skip all the sex scenes it was only because I longed to find out the true mystery. This is a wonderful story that I'm sure to read again in the future.
October 31, 2017
I am not really into ghost stories. Nope.
But reading the blurb and knowing that "We Met in Dreams" is a historical romance, I think I can go for it.
Happened that I was quite enjoying the story, with the ghost, the 'sight', and what people believe about hallucination during fever counted as 'crazy'.
And Arthur has been 'crazy' for the last ten years of his life. With the dark room, isolation in his own house. Until he met his 'illusion', Fox. That apparently, was not an illusion at all.
Started a little bit slow, and Arthur's beliefs that he is one crazy guy was kinda make me cranky.
But understandable considering the era.
I was glad that Fox finally got Arthur into his senses and realized what they have is real.
But not for a long time. Something's happened, and Fox and Arthur have to face the reality where they have to calm down a little bit, at least for Arthur.
What happened with Fox broke my heart. But I was glad that Arthur can convinced Fox this time.
The ending was a little rushed. Fox and Arthur need more time to explore one another.
It's a HFN, but I think that's make sense in Victoria era for homosexual relationship.
I believe, Fox and Arthur can work it out somehow.
Recommended!
* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*
But reading the blurb and knowing that "We Met in Dreams" is a historical romance, I think I can go for it.
Happened that I was quite enjoying the story, with the ghost, the 'sight', and what people believe about hallucination during fever counted as 'crazy'.
And Arthur has been 'crazy' for the last ten years of his life. With the dark room, isolation in his own house. Until he met his 'illusion', Fox. That apparently, was not an illusion at all.
Started a little bit slow, and Arthur's beliefs that he is one crazy guy was kinda make me cranky.
But understandable considering the era.
I was glad that Fox finally got Arthur into his senses and realized what they have is real.
But not for a long time. Something's happened, and Fox and Arthur have to face the reality where they have to calm down a little bit, at least for Arthur.
What happened with Fox broke my heart. But I was glad that Arthur can convinced Fox this time.
The ending was a little rushed. Fox and Arthur need more time to explore one another.
It's a HFN, but I think that's make sense in Victoria era for homosexual relationship.
I believe, Fox and Arthur can work it out somehow.
Recommended!
* I received the ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange of a fair and unbiased review.*
March 19, 2017
4.5 stars, rounded up.
This is one of those times when I really wish Goodreads had half stars. I rounded up because the only reason it's not 5 stars is because of something relatively minor that others may not be bothered with.
The blurb tells a lot of the story so I'll just give a few thoughts here.
I adored Arthur from the minute he was introduced. Fox too. They're as different as night and day but they worked so well together. The premise of this story was very unique and it was a pleasure watching these guys as they worked toward their happily-ever-after. Or as HEA as they could have in Victorian London anyway. Arthur has a lot he has to overcome before he gets there but he does get there - with a lot of help from Fox.
I normally shy away from historical romances but I'm really glad I took a chance on We Met in Dreams.
Beautiful writing.
Beautiful story.
Beautiful characters.
Fantastic book. Highly recommended.
You can find my more detailed review at On Top Down Under Book Reviews..
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is one of those times when I really wish Goodreads had half stars. I rounded up because the only reason it's not 5 stars is because of something relatively minor that others may not be bothered with.
The blurb tells a lot of the story so I'll just give a few thoughts here.
I adored Arthur from the minute he was introduced. Fox too. They're as different as night and day but they worked so well together. The premise of this story was very unique and it was a pleasure watching these guys as they worked toward their happily-ever-after. Or as HEA as they could have in Victorian London anyway. Arthur has a lot he has to overcome before he gets there but he does get there - with a lot of help from Fox.
I normally shy away from historical romances but I'm really glad I took a chance on We Met in Dreams.
Beautiful writing.
Beautiful story.
Beautiful characters.
Fantastic book. Highly recommended.
You can find my more detailed review at On Top Down Under Book Reviews..
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 28, 2017
I loved this book. I love it when an author manages to keep me on the edge as to what's real and what's not, and that's what this book did, in lovely Gothic fashion. Great characters, wonderful setting, compelling story.
September 22, 2017
“Yesterday in the park, I was feeling quite sorry for myself. I sat on that bench for a long time, trying to dredge up the strength to return to my empty apartments. Then an angel dropped in my lap, invited me to tea, and kissed me, and ever since I’ve been struggling to believe my luck. I feel as if I’m in a dream, and at any moment, I’ll wake broken and alone again.”
This book is the perfect blend of paranormal, mystery, historical fiction and romance. Just an absolutely beautiful story that kept me on the edge of my seat; kept me continuously wondering who to trust, what to believe and how this would end. And none of it was as I suspected which made the journey that much better.
I adored both these beautiful men and how they each became the angel the other needed to see through their darkness and see light and happiness awaiting them with each other.
And the visual descriptions of this manor, the period dress and the glimpses into London were perfectly captured for me. I was left mezmerized.
Thanks Marco for the recommendation...truly one to follow.
This book is the perfect blend of paranormal, mystery, historical fiction and romance. Just an absolutely beautiful story that kept me on the edge of my seat; kept me continuously wondering who to trust, what to believe and how this would end. And none of it was as I suspected which made the journey that much better.
I adored both these beautiful men and how they each became the angel the other needed to see through their darkness and see light and happiness awaiting them with each other.
And the visual descriptions of this manor, the period dress and the glimpses into London were perfectly captured for me. I was left mezmerized.
Thanks Marco for the recommendation...truly one to follow.
February 20, 2017
4.5 stars
‘We Met in Dreams’ is a very exceptional and unique romance. I loved the air of mystery and intrigue here. It was not all black and white. There were a lot of secrets that were playing peek-a-boo with the story and it kept me glued to my kindle until the final reveal.
Almost 90% of the story has a single setting: Arthur’s room, where he spends all his time either in a drug induced slumber or reading and painting or being tormented by his mental sickness that has alienated him from the outside world. He just exists without any purpose. It was a tremendous feat to make that single setting work and keep the reader’s interest captive throughout. Arthur’s room was his entire world and I loved how the author made that one single room come alive.
Arthur Middleton was lost and adrift but still had the courage and strength to fight for his right to make changes in his life. He was fragile in some ways but also resilient as he finally conquers his mental illness. With the help of Fox, his “imaginary friend”, Arthur takes baby steps as he contests his present care and takes back the reigns of his life. I deeply felt Arthur’s loneliness and frustration with his situation. He has been led to believe that he is too dangerous to go out in the world and he accepts it but then again there are times when he longs for a life that is “normal” for a Victorian gentleman of his age. It was heartbreaking to see such a sweet, gentle and thoughtful human being like Arthur, locked up for lack of a proper diagnosis and treatment of his mental illness.
When I started reading the story I thought Arthur’s whole “mental illness” stank to high heaven. I was convinced that there is foul play involved but as the story progresses I was completely thrown when the situation turns out to be something totally different. The so called “cure” of Arthur’s condition was not a conspiracy but the norm at those times in treating a patient who had even a little mental ailment.
Arthur’s visions and the other occurrences is explained in a very startling manner as it is revealed to be a painful, long-buried family secret which impacts the story very much. I really liked how the author combines Arthur’s tragic past and his ‘slightly broken’ mind to create his hallucinations and basically the root of all his delusions.
Fox was the catalyst behind all the triumphs in Arthur’s life. He enters in Arthur’s life as a mysterious shadow conjured up by Arthur’s broken mind, or so Arthur believes. Fox is shrouded in mystery and as the story progresses we get a glimpse into his life a little at a time. We don’t get Fox’s POV in the story but the author had done an amazing job in detailing his character and making him real and solid. His pain, loss and grief as well as his compassion, love and longing is painted in stark colors and I could not help but feel for him. Fox was the little voice in Arthur’s head encouraging him to take back control of his life. He is extremely gentle and patient with Arthur. His love for Arthur was beautiful and selfless as he goes to great lengths and risks a helluva lot to be there for him always.
The romance here builds up from a tentative connection to passion to full blown love in a very satisfying pace. I loved how Arthur’s struggles to come to terms with his sexuality are described here. Arthur has lead a completely sheltered life and he is very innocent about the ways of heart especially with a man. Also factoring in the ‘homosexuality is a sin’ mindset of the society of those times, it was a very courageous leap for Arthur to love Fox. I admired his courage and his big heart.
The ending could have been better. The reunion of Fox and Arthur was a little rushed. I wanted to read more about how they reconnect again and work out their relationship against the social odds. The author has mostly emphasized on Arthur’s victory over his mental illness, which is beautifully executed here without getting in too deep into his and Fox’s future. It was mostly hinted that Arthur’s sparse inner circle was ok with his unconventional relationship with Fox so the ending could be counted as a HEA.
Ms. McAllister has created a very intriguing, emotional as well as a sweet historical romance here and I completely loved it. It was a perfect combination of mystery, paranormal, healing and romance. This book is like an encouragement to all people with varied degrees of mental illness out there to never give up fighting. This is an amazingly well-written book and I would recommend it to all!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
‘We Met in Dreams’ is a very exceptional and unique romance. I loved the air of mystery and intrigue here. It was not all black and white. There were a lot of secrets that were playing peek-a-boo with the story and it kept me glued to my kindle until the final reveal.
Almost 90% of the story has a single setting: Arthur’s room, where he spends all his time either in a drug induced slumber or reading and painting or being tormented by his mental sickness that has alienated him from the outside world. He just exists without any purpose. It was a tremendous feat to make that single setting work and keep the reader’s interest captive throughout. Arthur’s room was his entire world and I loved how the author made that one single room come alive.
Arthur Middleton was lost and adrift but still had the courage and strength to fight for his right to make changes in his life. He was fragile in some ways but also resilient as he finally conquers his mental illness. With the help of Fox, his “imaginary friend”, Arthur takes baby steps as he contests his present care and takes back the reigns of his life. I deeply felt Arthur’s loneliness and frustration with his situation. He has been led to believe that he is too dangerous to go out in the world and he accepts it but then again there are times when he longs for a life that is “normal” for a Victorian gentleman of his age. It was heartbreaking to see such a sweet, gentle and thoughtful human being like Arthur, locked up for lack of a proper diagnosis and treatment of his mental illness.
When I started reading the story I thought Arthur’s whole “mental illness” stank to high heaven. I was convinced that there is foul play involved but as the story progresses I was completely thrown when the situation turns out to be something totally different. The so called “cure” of Arthur’s condition was not a conspiracy but the norm at those times in treating a patient who had even a little mental ailment.
Arthur’s visions and the other occurrences is explained in a very startling manner as it is revealed to be a painful, long-buried family secret which impacts the story very much. I really liked how the author combines Arthur’s tragic past and his ‘slightly broken’ mind to create his hallucinations and basically the root of all his delusions.
Fox was the catalyst behind all the triumphs in Arthur’s life. He enters in Arthur’s life as a mysterious shadow conjured up by Arthur’s broken mind, or so Arthur believes. Fox is shrouded in mystery and as the story progresses we get a glimpse into his life a little at a time. We don’t get Fox’s POV in the story but the author had done an amazing job in detailing his character and making him real and solid. His pain, loss and grief as well as his compassion, love and longing is painted in stark colors and I could not help but feel for him. Fox was the little voice in Arthur’s head encouraging him to take back control of his life. He is extremely gentle and patient with Arthur. His love for Arthur was beautiful and selfless as he goes to great lengths and risks a helluva lot to be there for him always.
The romance here builds up from a tentative connection to passion to full blown love in a very satisfying pace. I loved how Arthur’s struggles to come to terms with his sexuality are described here. Arthur has lead a completely sheltered life and he is very innocent about the ways of heart especially with a man. Also factoring in the ‘homosexuality is a sin’ mindset of the society of those times, it was a very courageous leap for Arthur to love Fox. I admired his courage and his big heart.
The ending could have been better. The reunion of Fox and Arthur was a little rushed. I wanted to read more about how they reconnect again and work out their relationship against the social odds. The author has mostly emphasized on Arthur’s victory over his mental illness, which is beautifully executed here without getting in too deep into his and Fox’s future. It was mostly hinted that Arthur’s sparse inner circle was ok with his unconventional relationship with Fox so the ending could be counted as a HEA.
Ms. McAllister has created a very intriguing, emotional as well as a sweet historical romance here and I completely loved it. It was a perfect combination of mystery, paranormal, healing and romance. This book is like an encouragement to all people with varied degrees of mental illness out there to never give up fighting. This is an amazingly well-written book and I would recommend it to all!
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
Read
March 2, 2017A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
We Met in Dreams was a delightful surprise. Whatever I expected this book to be when I read the blurb, We Met in Dreams turned out to be an emotional, angst-laden journey of self discovery. So just my cup of tea. Arthur and Fox are both fascinating characters, but there is no doubt this is Arthur’s story. After a fever as a child left him plagued by voices and visions, he became a victim of well meaning, but ultimately flawed caregivers. They have kept him dosed on laudanum and swathed in darkness, effectively secluding him from the rest of the world. And there he would have stayed if not for Fox. Clever and kind, Fox is man who often fails to see his true worth. He blames himself for the death of a previous lover and when he discovers Arthur, he doesn’t plan on becoming so attached to the man. Arthur is stronger than he realizes and as readers it’s heartening to see him start recapturing the parts of him he thought lost. He is surrounded by people who love him, so there is no sinister work here. They are just misguided and while they have done Arthur great damage, it’s hard to dislike them for it.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
We Met in Dreams was a delightful surprise. Whatever I expected this book to be when I read the blurb, We Met in Dreams turned out to be an emotional, angst-laden journey of self discovery. So just my cup of tea. Arthur and Fox are both fascinating characters, but there is no doubt this is Arthur’s story. After a fever as a child left him plagued by voices and visions, he became a victim of well meaning, but ultimately flawed caregivers. They have kept him dosed on laudanum and swathed in darkness, effectively secluding him from the rest of the world. And there he would have stayed if not for Fox. Clever and kind, Fox is man who often fails to see his true worth. He blames himself for the death of a previous lover and when he discovers Arthur, he doesn’t plan on becoming so attached to the man. Arthur is stronger than he realizes and as readers it’s heartening to see him start recapturing the parts of him he thought lost. He is surrounded by people who love him, so there is no sinister work here. They are just misguided and while they have done Arthur great damage, it’s hard to dislike them for it.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
February 27, 2017
Ahhh the FEELS! This book. Ugh. This book. It’s so good! This wasn’t just a book for me, it was an emotional experience. You just want to reach inside the pages and wrap these men up and hug them. You want to tell Arthur that with your enlightened 20th century sensibilities, you feel for him and that there is no reason for him to be treated like a pariah. You will weep for Arthur and then, consequently, Fox, and you will sympathize that this scenario could very well have happened in Regency London with their use of laudanum and overly superstitious ways.
McAllister sets us up right from the beginning, weaving a spell over us with the insidious fog outside the window and the mysterious thumps outside the door.
Ten. Arthur was ten, when his parents died and he contracted a fever (or did he?) which left him weak in body as well as mind. Ghosts and apparitions as well as mysterious noises are now a constant part of his existence. For his protection, as well as the protection of others, he is locked into his rooms. He spends his days under the influence of laudanum and is only allowed a daily ration of coal and food to live on. He is still a peer of the realm, so his imposed prison is a nice one, but it is still a prison.
Years. Years he has lived this way; it is all he knows. Till one night a man appears in his rooms. Thinking said man isn’t real, just another apparition come to haunt him, he talks to it…and finds a friend and, eventually, a lover. Here the imagery continues with Fox, a silver fox of a man sneaking into the hen house of Arthur’s life, and changing the man and his world in so many ways. We are unsure about the fox at first: is he friend or is he foe, sitting in the shadows of the room, never knowing when he will materialize? The Fox is drawn back, time and time again, until he realizes that what he has done is woo Arthur, that they have become two men who are hurting and are now finding solace in one another. It was almost too much. I could have used maybe a touch less influence on the front side of the story, the dark and dreary part, and a little more on the backside, which would be the happiness and sunshine part when Arthurs life is transformed by his love of Fox. I needed happy, craved it like the burning off of the fog McAllister writes about.
We Met in Dreams is a romance. It’s a ghost story. It’s a mystery. It’s an intense story of two men who need each other—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s character driven and a good deal of this story happens within the walls of just one room. It’s a story of breaking free of the chains we and others fashion for us, made up of good intentions. Yes, Fox has some very forward thinking ideas, but, ultimately, he is hindered also by the time period in which he lives. But only Fox could get Arthur to venture out of the walls he created inside his mind and start viewing the world as something to be experienced and not feared. Only when Arthur conquers his mental issues can he venture out past his locked rooms and become a man who can stand side by side with Fox. Arthur’s transition from being pursued to being the one pursuing is a heartwarming story of triumph.
There are layers of this story. When you finish it, you will ponder on it for days, discovering nuances in the story as it haunts you in retrospect. This review is hard because I don’t want to give anything away about the story. You need to read it and let it unfold for you as I did. Just know that I cannot recommend this book enough. I loved it. If you are a fan of Regency romance, sweet, heartbreaking poignant stories of triumph which just might contain a ghost or two or three, then this is the book for you. I highly recommend it!
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach Reviews
McAllister sets us up right from the beginning, weaving a spell over us with the insidious fog outside the window and the mysterious thumps outside the door.
Ten. Arthur was ten, when his parents died and he contracted a fever (or did he?) which left him weak in body as well as mind. Ghosts and apparitions as well as mysterious noises are now a constant part of his existence. For his protection, as well as the protection of others, he is locked into his rooms. He spends his days under the influence of laudanum and is only allowed a daily ration of coal and food to live on. He is still a peer of the realm, so his imposed prison is a nice one, but it is still a prison.
Years. Years he has lived this way; it is all he knows. Till one night a man appears in his rooms. Thinking said man isn’t real, just another apparition come to haunt him, he talks to it…and finds a friend and, eventually, a lover. Here the imagery continues with Fox, a silver fox of a man sneaking into the hen house of Arthur’s life, and changing the man and his world in so many ways. We are unsure about the fox at first: is he friend or is he foe, sitting in the shadows of the room, never knowing when he will materialize? The Fox is drawn back, time and time again, until he realizes that what he has done is woo Arthur, that they have become two men who are hurting and are now finding solace in one another. It was almost too much. I could have used maybe a touch less influence on the front side of the story, the dark and dreary part, and a little more on the backside, which would be the happiness and sunshine part when Arthurs life is transformed by his love of Fox. I needed happy, craved it like the burning off of the fog McAllister writes about.
We Met in Dreams is a romance. It’s a ghost story. It’s a mystery. It’s an intense story of two men who need each other—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s character driven and a good deal of this story happens within the walls of just one room. It’s a story of breaking free of the chains we and others fashion for us, made up of good intentions. Yes, Fox has some very forward thinking ideas, but, ultimately, he is hindered also by the time period in which he lives. But only Fox could get Arthur to venture out of the walls he created inside his mind and start viewing the world as something to be experienced and not feared. Only when Arthur conquers his mental issues can he venture out past his locked rooms and become a man who can stand side by side with Fox. Arthur’s transition from being pursued to being the one pursuing is a heartwarming story of triumph.
There are layers of this story. When you finish it, you will ponder on it for days, discovering nuances in the story as it haunts you in retrospect. This review is hard because I don’t want to give anything away about the story. You need to read it and let it unfold for you as I did. Just know that I cannot recommend this book enough. I loved it. If you are a fan of Regency romance, sweet, heartbreaking poignant stories of triumph which just might contain a ghost or two or three, then this is the book for you. I highly recommend it!
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach Reviews
March 2, 2017
We Met in Dreams is a wonderful, slow developing romance between Arthur, an ill Viscount, and a thief Fox. How their story developed and how Fox's nightly visits to Arthur, affected his recovery, was superbly written and pulling. The main plot was mysterious and romantic. I liked it a lot.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED STORY!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED STORY!
July 1, 2017
*** 4.75 Stars - rounded up ***
I was a damaged. I was a man who could not trust his own mind, no matter how hard I wished it weren't so.
This was not a prison but a haven to keep me safe and to keep others safe from me. I belonged here. I was well taken care of. This was my home...
***
I knew this book gonna be something since the very first time I saw the cover and read the blurb.
The story a bit 'unique' and enough to make the hair behind my back stand.
The mystery that build from the start succeed gained my curiosity.
Whether what Arthur have is just a visions of his imagination or was it real, the author write it in very interesting way and it made this story really hard to put it down. With the very slow pace, surprisingly the story far from boring. Because in every page I turned made me curious even more with what actually happen to Arthur.
The way Arthur thought at first that Fox was just one of the vision he create due to his 'illness'. The way Fox trying to 'help' Arthur and convinced him that he IS normal and don't deserve to be isolated in his own house. I can fell the emotions wrapping me at the whole reading. So intense...
I like the slowly growing feeling and connection between Arthur and Fox. There's sadness there and also caring, the fragility blend well with warmness feels that growing between the two. It's all gave the butterflies in my tummy flutter constantly.
I love every part in this book, but I must admit that I'm a bit disappointed with the unsure-HFN ending. I still want to know what will happen next with them. But the abruptly end kinda ruined the excitement that grew in me since the beginning.
But I think this book still WORTH to try and I'll recommended it to you because YES! no matter what I felt about the ending, this book had successfully secured it place in my heart...
When the whole world seems mad, a madman is as sane as anyone...
March 9, 2017
I was immediately drawn to this cover which totally paints a picture of this Victorian era story. Arthur has been confined to a room in his manor for 10 years. He’s Lord of the house but is sick and has fits where he thinks he sees and hears apparitions who bother him constantly. Because of this, his uncle and staff drug him through parts of the day to keep him calm and under control which means he is awake by himself all night when he can’t sleep.
Arthur struggles everyday but is determined not impose further on the ones taking care of him so he has become very compliant. Until one night a sexy, silver-haired man named Fox enters his room. He's trying to escape after breaking in to steal from Arthur's house.
Arthur thinks Fox is another ghost there to torture him but he soon realizes that he loves his company even if he is a figment of his own imagination.
Fox continues to return as much as he can and their relationship progresses. But Arthur is still struggling with his health and can’t stand the fact that he is physically and mentally weak because of his sickness. Fox loves Arthur just as he is and finds him so sweet and innocent. …..And did I mention that Arthur is a blond haired, angel faced virgin?
I don’t want to give away the rest but this is a lovely book. It has a lazy, slow pace but you delve so much into Arthur and his interactions with Fox that you don’t even notice.
There were lots of twists and turns but I agree with others that the one at the end wasn't necessary. The last part of the book moved so quick that I felt like there could’ve been a little more at the end. 4.5 stars
Arthur struggles everyday but is determined not impose further on the ones taking care of him so he has become very compliant. Until one night a sexy, silver-haired man named Fox enters his room. He's trying to escape after breaking in to steal from Arthur's house.
Arthur thinks Fox is another ghost there to torture him but he soon realizes that he loves his company even if he is a figment of his own imagination.
Fox continues to return as much as he can and their relationship progresses. But Arthur is still struggling with his health and can’t stand the fact that he is physically and mentally weak because of his sickness. Fox loves Arthur just as he is and finds him so sweet and innocent. …..And did I mention that Arthur is a blond haired, angel faced virgin?
I don’t want to give away the rest but this is a lovely book. It has a lazy, slow pace but you delve so much into Arthur and his interactions with Fox that you don’t even notice.
There were lots of twists and turns but I agree with others that the one at the end wasn't necessary. The last part of the book moved so quick that I felt like there could’ve been a little more at the end. 4.5 stars
March 4, 2017
Solid historical romance with a really well executed touch of gothic horror. The only reason I don't give this 5 stars is that the ending was a tiny bit anticlimactic for me but that's quite subjective. Otherwise highly recommended.
April 9, 2017
Mesmerizing and Unique
Those who wallow in M/M historicals which take place in England will be fascinated, frustrated, and fulfilled by this totally mesmerizing and unique look at a cross-current of cultural dichotomies which spring out of the Victorian era.
This one takes patience. The long, arduous tale of poor Lord Arthur Middleton's incarceration in his estate since he's been 14 because he is deemed too dangerous to himself might be somewhat off-putting, and for a while it was for me. But I wanted to see what transpired eventually between this 24-year-old and the older (we are never told how much older) the cunning, dangerous, but loving Fox, who stumbled upon this unfortunate lad quite by accident.
The love story that develops here is unique, step-by-step, hopeful, sweet and in the end all-encompassing. But the mysteries that author McAllister keeps hiding from us explode in the last 20% of the book and bring all the illogical and horrifying and complex details into focus. This confluence of clues as to who-what-where-when-why is riveting as it unfolds, and leads us to a wonderfully plotted out denouement.
I wonder whether there will be a sequel--not about Arthur and Fox, but there are two supporting characters, one defined and the other nebulous for the most part, who could be paired in another spin from a very talented author.
Those who wallow in M/M historicals which take place in England will be fascinated, frustrated, and fulfilled by this totally mesmerizing and unique look at a cross-current of cultural dichotomies which spring out of the Victorian era.
This one takes patience. The long, arduous tale of poor Lord Arthur Middleton's incarceration in his estate since he's been 14 because he is deemed too dangerous to himself might be somewhat off-putting, and for a while it was for me. But I wanted to see what transpired eventually between this 24-year-old and the older (we are never told how much older) the cunning, dangerous, but loving Fox, who stumbled upon this unfortunate lad quite by accident.
The love story that develops here is unique, step-by-step, hopeful, sweet and in the end all-encompassing. But the mysteries that author McAllister keeps hiding from us explode in the last 20% of the book and bring all the illogical and horrifying and complex details into focus. This confluence of clues as to who-what-where-when-why is riveting as it unfolds, and leads us to a wonderfully plotted out denouement.
I wonder whether there will be a sequel--not about Arthur and Fox, but there are two supporting characters, one defined and the other nebulous for the most part, who could be paired in another spin from a very talented author.
November 23, 2017
Book – We Met in Dreams
Author – Rowan McAllister
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 268
Cover – PERFECT! (and, yes, all caps is needed)
POV – 1st person, one character
Would I read it again – YES!
Genre – LGBT, Historical, Supernatural
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Warnings: contains explorations of mental health, opium use, suicide, death and memory issues of the Victorian era.
I knew I was a fan of Rowan's work when I read the 'Greatest Hits' compilation and gave two out of the three stories 5 stars. Back then, they were a new-to-me author and I've been unfortunate in not having enough time to further explore their work until now. Thankfully, this one came along and reminded me of just why I loved their work so much the first time around.
This is one of my new auto-buy, must-have-in-paperback authors.
~
What can I say about this one? It blew my mind.
Right from page one, the story grabbed me and didn't let go even after the end. Now, I'm not a fan of 1st person; it's just me and a quirk I have, because usually so much information is left out because it's expected that we already know it or it's not as easy to insert naturally. I never have that problem with Rowan's writing. The 1st person provided here, for Arthur's POV, was absolutely vital to the telling of the story as well as the information it needed to provide the reader. And it was captivating. I never once thought about it being 1st person; I was too sucked in to do anything by start the journey and see where it led.
For me, Arthur was not only the MC of the story but he was the star of the show. Not once did he never let me down, get on my nerves or have an annoying switch of personality, like some books I've read recently, but he was loveable and relatable. He was consistent, pleasant to read, disturbed to the perfect degree and fully accepting of his shortcomings. I felt for him every step of the way, for the battles he faced, for not being listened to or understood. I could see why Fox had become this bright spark in his life that he didn't want to lose.
Fox himself was amazing. Intriguing, mysterious and full of that charm and charisma that Arthur had never really been around before. He was precisely what Arthur needed. I love how he played along and let Arthur believe he wasn't real because it soothed him and made him feel more comfortable. Opening up to Fox was just the beginning of Arthur's journey, but it wouldn't have been possible without Fox's understanding and the way he listened without judgment, even when things seemed impossible. He pushed Arthur's boundaries, but didn't hesitate to stop or apologise if he thought he'd made his condition worse or frightened him.
I really loved the side characters. ALL of them. I found Tom intriguing and mysterious, and I couldn't tell if he was afraid of Arthur or just a little too overprotective of him from a distance. Pendel was an absolute joy. Though he started out as the stuffy servant who was always attentive and loyal, but still aloof, there were cleverly written bright moments when he appreciated Arthur's gratitude or showed concern openly. They made me love him so much. I never once doubted him or his motives, because it was clear that as well as being attentive, he loved Arthur like a son. As did Uncle Oscar, who was great. I was scared that he was a flip-flopper for a while, that he just did what the doctor told him because he didn't have the first clue how to treat Arthur or how to properly take care of him. I was scared that he wasn't cut out for taking care of him in the way that was needed and that Arthur needed him to. But he redeemed himself so many times that the doubts didn't linger. And, I'll admit, I said a little “Hallelujah!” for Uncle Oscar and Dr. Stuart when the latter made his first appearance. What they did for Arthur was just fantastic.
The way Arthur grew from a meek, ill young man so sure that he would spend his life that way to becoming brave and challenging the status quo made me feel so proud. It was so naturally done, so well explored with set backs and achievements, little things that he found victory in, that I shared every joy and every loss with him.
Now, in the nature of total transparency, I have to confess...I cried. Probably not a surprise, but I did. Twice. The first was when Arthur found out the truth about the ghostly woman in white and the second time was when he first spoke to her. And...okay, a third time...that park bench moment totally got me in the feels. Hard. With a sledgehammer. And, yeah I'll admit that I held my breath enough times to make me dizzy. But that's the genius of the writing and I will never complain about that.
~
Overall, the writing was first class. The plot growth was spellbinding and intriguing, never leaving me wondering too long. The world building and historical accuracy for the time period was perfect. Utterly perfect. I normally wax lyrical about the writing and the editing and plot, but I don't need to. This story speaks for itself. “We Met in Dreams” is the best historical fiction I've ever read in this genre so far. One day McAllister might write another to knock it off the top spot, but until then, this one takes the crowning glory.
From the feels, the way I repeated quivered and quaked with apprehension, held my breath in fear or surprise, to the sizzling hot chemistry that built slowly, to the absolutely stunning exploration of mental health, suicide, death and memory issues of the time, there was nothing I didn't love. In fact, I couldn't have loved it more. If I could have given it a hundred stars I would have.
I nearly broke down when Arthur met Dorian and, for a situation at 88% of the story, it's proof that this story didn't fail to keep captivated right until the last word. And I still wanted more.
This was perfection from beginning to end.
~
Favourite Quote
I actually marked eleven favourite quotes, but I'm only going to share my top 3 here.
““What do you want from me, Arthur?”
“I don't want you to go.”
“But what do you want?”
“I want you to be here always, to never leave me.”
He gripped my neck and leaned his forehead to mine. “I can't give you that. You know I can't. Not here. Not like this,” he whispered into the barest few inches between us, the wine on his breath as intoxicating as what I'd drunk. “Is that all you want from me, my presence and my company? Tell the truth.”
“No,” I admitted. “But it isn't right to feel this way...is it?”
With him standing so close and his hand on my neck, I wasn't so certain of the answer anymore.”
.
““Tell me to leave, Arthur. Tell me to go and I will.”
“No.”
“If I stay, I'm going to kiss you again.”
“Yes.””
.
“So many nights I spent curled beneath these blankets, cold and alone, or in a nest in front of the fire so I would not have to face the empty space beside me on the mattress. I've been so lonely, Fox, you cannot even imagine the depths of it. I was cold to the bones of me, even at the height of summer, longing for something I thought I would and could never have. Hating myself for the feeling.”
Author – Rowan McAllister
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 268
Cover – PERFECT! (and, yes, all caps is needed)
POV – 1st person, one character
Would I read it again – YES!
Genre – LGBT, Historical, Supernatural
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Warnings: contains explorations of mental health, opium use, suicide, death and memory issues of the Victorian era.
I knew I was a fan of Rowan's work when I read the 'Greatest Hits' compilation and gave two out of the three stories 5 stars. Back then, they were a new-to-me author and I've been unfortunate in not having enough time to further explore their work until now. Thankfully, this one came along and reminded me of just why I loved their work so much the first time around.
This is one of my new auto-buy, must-have-in-paperback authors.
~
What can I say about this one? It blew my mind.
Right from page one, the story grabbed me and didn't let go even after the end. Now, I'm not a fan of 1st person; it's just me and a quirk I have, because usually so much information is left out because it's expected that we already know it or it's not as easy to insert naturally. I never have that problem with Rowan's writing. The 1st person provided here, for Arthur's POV, was absolutely vital to the telling of the story as well as the information it needed to provide the reader. And it was captivating. I never once thought about it being 1st person; I was too sucked in to do anything by start the journey and see where it led.
For me, Arthur was not only the MC of the story but he was the star of the show. Not once did he never let me down, get on my nerves or have an annoying switch of personality, like some books I've read recently, but he was loveable and relatable. He was consistent, pleasant to read, disturbed to the perfect degree and fully accepting of his shortcomings. I felt for him every step of the way, for the battles he faced, for not being listened to or understood. I could see why Fox had become this bright spark in his life that he didn't want to lose.
Fox himself was amazing. Intriguing, mysterious and full of that charm and charisma that Arthur had never really been around before. He was precisely what Arthur needed. I love how he played along and let Arthur believe he wasn't real because it soothed him and made him feel more comfortable. Opening up to Fox was just the beginning of Arthur's journey, but it wouldn't have been possible without Fox's understanding and the way he listened without judgment, even when things seemed impossible. He pushed Arthur's boundaries, but didn't hesitate to stop or apologise if he thought he'd made his condition worse or frightened him.
I really loved the side characters. ALL of them. I found Tom intriguing and mysterious, and I couldn't tell if he was afraid of Arthur or just a little too overprotective of him from a distance. Pendel was an absolute joy. Though he started out as the stuffy servant who was always attentive and loyal, but still aloof, there were cleverly written bright moments when he appreciated Arthur's gratitude or showed concern openly. They made me love him so much. I never once doubted him or his motives, because it was clear that as well as being attentive, he loved Arthur like a son. As did Uncle Oscar, who was great. I was scared that he was a flip-flopper for a while, that he just did what the doctor told him because he didn't have the first clue how to treat Arthur or how to properly take care of him. I was scared that he wasn't cut out for taking care of him in the way that was needed and that Arthur needed him to. But he redeemed himself so many times that the doubts didn't linger. And, I'll admit, I said a little “Hallelujah!” for Uncle Oscar and Dr. Stuart when the latter made his first appearance. What they did for Arthur was just fantastic.
The way Arthur grew from a meek, ill young man so sure that he would spend his life that way to becoming brave and challenging the status quo made me feel so proud. It was so naturally done, so well explored with set backs and achievements, little things that he found victory in, that I shared every joy and every loss with him.
Now, in the nature of total transparency, I have to confess...I cried. Probably not a surprise, but I did. Twice. The first was when Arthur found out the truth about the ghostly woman in white and the second time was when he first spoke to her. And...okay, a third time...that park bench moment totally got me in the feels. Hard. With a sledgehammer. And, yeah I'll admit that I held my breath enough times to make me dizzy. But that's the genius of the writing and I will never complain about that.
~
Overall, the writing was first class. The plot growth was spellbinding and intriguing, never leaving me wondering too long. The world building and historical accuracy for the time period was perfect. Utterly perfect. I normally wax lyrical about the writing and the editing and plot, but I don't need to. This story speaks for itself. “We Met in Dreams” is the best historical fiction I've ever read in this genre so far. One day McAllister might write another to knock it off the top spot, but until then, this one takes the crowning glory.
From the feels, the way I repeated quivered and quaked with apprehension, held my breath in fear or surprise, to the sizzling hot chemistry that built slowly, to the absolutely stunning exploration of mental health, suicide, death and memory issues of the time, there was nothing I didn't love. In fact, I couldn't have loved it more. If I could have given it a hundred stars I would have.
I nearly broke down when Arthur met Dorian and, for a situation at 88% of the story, it's proof that this story didn't fail to keep captivated right until the last word. And I still wanted more.
This was perfection from beginning to end.
~
Favourite Quote
I actually marked eleven favourite quotes, but I'm only going to share my top 3 here.
““What do you want from me, Arthur?”
“I don't want you to go.”
“But what do you want?”
“I want you to be here always, to never leave me.”
He gripped my neck and leaned his forehead to mine. “I can't give you that. You know I can't. Not here. Not like this,” he whispered into the barest few inches between us, the wine on his breath as intoxicating as what I'd drunk. “Is that all you want from me, my presence and my company? Tell the truth.”
“No,” I admitted. “But it isn't right to feel this way...is it?”
With him standing so close and his hand on my neck, I wasn't so certain of the answer anymore.”
.
““Tell me to leave, Arthur. Tell me to go and I will.”
“No.”
“If I stay, I'm going to kiss you again.”
“Yes.””
.
“So many nights I spent curled beneath these blankets, cold and alone, or in a nest in front of the fire so I would not have to face the empty space beside me on the mattress. I've been so lonely, Fox, you cannot even imagine the depths of it. I was cold to the bones of me, even at the height of summer, longing for something I thought I would and could never have. Hating myself for the feeling.”
May 13, 2019
Read via Hoopla. I read the first half intently, but really just skimmed the second bc... idk, I was no longer in the mood for it? Like the feeling when you're really enjoying a read but not actually that invested in what happens next. I liked the characters, the plot was fun, and then I stopped caring entirely for no apparent reason.
Would reread the first half! And perhaps attempt the second half again someday! Thought it was pretty good, atmospheric and angsty and all y'know. I'd be interested to hear someone with more expertise than me talk about the mental health rep. MC has hallucinations and a lot of anxiety, and so has been kept locked up in his rooms and medicated with laudanum for something like ten years, and throughout the book he slowly regains his agency with the help of his love interest. So... interesting stuff.
Would reread the first half! And perhaps attempt the second half again someday! Thought it was pretty good, atmospheric and angsty and all y'know. I'd be interested to hear someone with more expertise than me talk about the mental health rep. MC has hallucinations and a lot of anxiety, and so has been kept locked up in his rooms and medicated with laudanum for something like ten years, and throughout the book he slowly regains his agency with the help of his love interest. So... interesting stuff.
June 7, 2021
4.5 stars ✨ absolutely adored this! I didn’t want it to end.
But beware: before you go into this I suggest you put your dialectal reasoning, tendencies to shrewdly dissect your reads—to rest. Just roll with it. No thoughts just vibes. Because this doesn’t make an ounce of sense. Nothing adds up. Just don’t think too hard because Arthur is adorable and plays piano and Fox is hot and has SILVER hair for some reason—he’s not a senior citizen, his skin is young and smooth he just doesn’t share the same genetic pool as us mere Homo-sapiens-sapiens.— anyways I strongly recommend this, I’m not being sarcastic, I loved it. It was fucking ridiculous but very entertaining.
This wasn’t angsty in the least despite what the blurb might suggest, also if—like me—you were expecting an insightful and educational delving into a psychotic main character’s struggles then you will be sorely disappointed, just kidding you won’t because Fox’s otherworldly hotness balances the entire thing out.
READ THIS I PROMISE ITS GOOD.
Ps: the writing *chef’s kiss*
Pps: the cover 🥺❤️
But beware: before you go into this I suggest you put your dialectal reasoning, tendencies to shrewdly dissect your reads—to rest. Just roll with it. No thoughts just vibes. Because this doesn’t make an ounce of sense. Nothing adds up. Just don’t think too hard because Arthur is adorable and plays piano and Fox is hot and has SILVER hair for some reason—he’s not a senior citizen, his skin is young and smooth he just doesn’t share the same genetic pool as us mere Homo-sapiens-sapiens.— anyways I strongly recommend this, I’m not being sarcastic, I loved it. It was fucking ridiculous but very entertaining.
This wasn’t angsty in the least despite what the blurb might suggest, also if—like me—you were expecting an insightful and educational delving into a psychotic main character’s struggles then you will be sorely disappointed, just kidding you won’t because Fox’s otherworldly hotness balances the entire thing out.
READ THIS I PROMISE ITS GOOD.
Ps: the writing *chef’s kiss*
Pps: the cover 🥺❤️
January 2, 2018
Dreams or delusions, madness or memories?
Young Lord Campden believes he's losing his mind. Out of the collection of noises, screams, and visions that plague him during the night one vision smiles, and talks, and stays.
McAllister builds dread and suspicion, lightens it with humour and sensuality, and writes a book I couldn't put down until four in the morning.
We Met in Dreams is a dream of a book. Pun intended :)
Young Lord Campden believes he's losing his mind. Out of the collection of noises, screams, and visions that plague him during the night one vision smiles, and talks, and stays.
McAllister builds dread and suspicion, lightens it with humour and sensuality, and writes a book I couldn't put down until four in the morning.
We Met in Dreams is a dream of a book. Pun intended :)
March 15, 2017
Gah, what a fantastic historical! Truly enjoyed this one. Excellent sense of story, a sweet and sexy romance, characters I absolutely adored, and great writing.
March 5, 2017
I'm not a huge historical reader but the blurb caught me on this one and I'm so glad I read it. From the beginning I thought for sure I had the whole thing worked out and I'm happy to say I was completely wrong.
September 10, 2017
Not what I expected at all! This is a beautifully written story. There's just something about it that tugs at my heartstrings. Arthur and Fox are refreshing three-dimensional characters that immediately pulled me in the minute they both appeared on page. I fell irrevocably in love with both of them and I absolutely couldn’t wait to read how their love story would end.
Arthur suffered a traumatic experience as a young man and as a result, he hears voices. Laudanum is prescribed to him by a charlatan of a doctor to "help" him with his hallucinations. Alone for years on end with only 3 servants to tend him, Arthur’s thirst for life is dying. He’s sequestered for hours on end with no friends bored out of his mind until one day a wily young man who calls himself Fox, climbs into Arthur’s room and provides Arthur the companionship he so desperately needed, changing his life forever.
Fox gave Arthur, the courage he needed to challenge his Uncle, his doctor and the servants. Fox gave Arthur the courage to believe in himself despite his hallucinations. It is because of Fox ( who Arthur is convinced is a figment of his imagination), that Arthur learns to live again and to try to gain some measure of control over his life. I don't want to ruin the story for you so I'll only say this. The more I read the more I wondered if I was dealing with a mentally unstable MC or a ghost story. I won't tell you which answer is correct but I will tell you that this read will keep you on your toes as you root for these two to find their happily ever after. Excellent sweet read. I highly recommend it!
*ARC provided for review at my discretion*
March 14, 2017
What to say about this one?! First, I think everyone should read it. It's different - unique. I liked how it seemed to stay true to the time, but it didn't fall into expected patterns for villains. I rolled my eyes at first because I smugly thought some people were obviously bad, only to realize I was wrong.
My heart broke for Arthur - the imagery was fantastic to paint the bleak existence he endured while barely realizing that it was awful enough to be something to endure. Enter Fox who shined a (literal kind of and figurative) light on what needed to be accepted and what did not. Fox made me so nervous because I couldn't get a read on him for the longest time.
I loved the evolution of the relationship although I admit it was slooow in parts. The end twist took me by surprise but I loved it and in retrospect, it added much to the book by having power transfer in some ways.
This was a sweet, angsty but also not (helpful, right? ;) story. Absolutely a hit from a new author. Can't wait to read more from her.
My heart broke for Arthur - the imagery was fantastic to paint the bleak existence he endured while barely realizing that it was awful enough to be something to endure. Enter Fox who shined a (literal kind of and figurative) light on what needed to be accepted and what did not. Fox made me so nervous because I couldn't get a read on him for the longest time.
I loved the evolution of the relationship although I admit it was slooow in parts. The end twist took me by surprise but I loved it and in retrospect, it added much to the book by having power transfer in some ways.
This was a sweet, angsty but also not (helpful, right? ;) story. Absolutely a hit from a new author. Can't wait to read more from her.
March 2, 2017
I loved this right up until the end. The characters had already been through so much and I just really didn't like the ending circumstances. Don't get me wrong, it's still a HEA but it just didn't work for me. I guess I'm also biased because
That all being said I still really liked this book and it had me teary-eyed for most of it. My heart broke for Arthur and his circumstances. Fox was also a wonderful character, and it was nice to see how his presence gave Arthur the push he needed to fight for his freedom and independence.
Overall this was a great story with an interesting cast and a deep emotional impact. If it hadn't been for that ending I would have rated it 5 stars.
That all being said I still really liked this book and it had me teary-eyed for most of it. My heart broke for Arthur and his circumstances. Fox was also a wonderful character, and it was nice to see how his presence gave Arthur the push he needed to fight for his freedom and independence.
Overall this was a great story with an interesting cast and a deep emotional impact. If it hadn't been for that ending I would have rated it 5 stars.
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