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Dead Dreamer #1
To Dream Is To Die
2020 Readers' Favorite Bronze Medal Winner in the Young Adult - Paranormal genre!
2020 IAN Book of the Year Awards: Outstanding "Paranormal/Supernatural" Category Winner
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Eighteen-year-old Brenna Whit is entering college as a freshman and starting to meet new people, but she hides a dark secret. Because of an accident that happened three years ago, her spirit wanders the Fade whenever she falls asleep. It's something she wants to keep hidden from the world, but when she sees someone watching her in spirit form, she fears the secret's out. With new friends, possibly new enemies, school, and a new crush, Brenna has too much to worry about for just her freshman year of college.
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Perfect for those who enjoy Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural!
2020 IAN Book of the Year Awards: Outstanding "Paranormal/Supernatural" Category Winner
--
Eighteen-year-old Brenna Whit is entering college as a freshman and starting to meet new people, but she hides a dark secret. Because of an accident that happened three years ago, her spirit wanders the Fade whenever she falls asleep. It's something she wants to keep hidden from the world, but when she sees someone watching her in spirit form, she fears the secret's out. With new friends, possibly new enemies, school, and a new crush, Brenna has too much to worry about for just her freshman year of college.
--
Perfect for those who enjoy Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural!
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2012
67 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Lampkin
6 books161 followersA native of Southern Virginia, best selling author Sarah Lampkin is a 2015 graduate from Lynchburg College [University of Lynchburg] with a master’s degree in English. Since graduation, Sarah now lives in Northern Virginia working in the IT field. When she isn’t working, Sarah continues her Celtic mythology research and Gaelic studies, while working on the Dead Dreamer series.
Her work mainly focuses on Celtic themes, mixed with elements from the spiritual world. And her characters always have a flair of attitude and sarcasm because writing damsels in distress is something she just can’t do.
Her work mainly focuses on Celtic themes, mixed with elements from the spiritual world. And her characters always have a flair of attitude and sarcasm because writing damsels in distress is something she just can’t do.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
November 26, 2018
She was dead for six minutes, but the diligence of the rescue team brought her back, but something had changed in Brenna Whit and she is determined to never reveal her dark secret. Brenna no longer sleeps in peace, when her eyes close, her spirit traverses the Fade, and now someone has discovered her secret and she is not alone in her abilities. Meanwhile, beyond the Fade lay trouble as the doors between other worlds beckon her spirit while on the Earthly plane, someone is willing to do anything to stop her.
Yes! A paranormal fantasy with a heroine with an edgy attitude, a level head and a strong belief in herself! No angsty self-pity here, Brenna is borderline prickly at times, but never at a loss for words or unable to stand her ground. The supporting characters are great, too, especially Damon, and really, these two make this story come alive all on their own. Feel the lack of privacy in college dorms, how Brenna is willing to take on the unknown and how well-mostly- she handles others finding out about what she can do.
Sarah Lampkin’s TO DREAM IS TO DIE is pure entertainment in a world that makes being able to cross beyond the veil pretty believable. Great world building and scenes that are vivid in detail on all “planes.” Looks like the New Year holds great promise for great reading! Releases January 1, 2019.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Sarah Lampkin!
Series: Dead Dreamer - Book 1
Publisher: The Parliament House (October 5, 2018)
Publication Date: January 1, 2019
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
Print Length: 296 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Yes! A paranormal fantasy with a heroine with an edgy attitude, a level head and a strong belief in herself! No angsty self-pity here, Brenna is borderline prickly at times, but never at a loss for words or unable to stand her ground. The supporting characters are great, too, especially Damon, and really, these two make this story come alive all on their own. Feel the lack of privacy in college dorms, how Brenna is willing to take on the unknown and how well-mostly- she handles others finding out about what she can do.
Sarah Lampkin’s TO DREAM IS TO DIE is pure entertainment in a world that makes being able to cross beyond the veil pretty believable. Great world building and scenes that are vivid in detail on all “planes.” Looks like the New Year holds great promise for great reading! Releases January 1, 2019.
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Sarah Lampkin!
Series: Dead Dreamer - Book 1
Publisher: The Parliament House (October 5, 2018)
Publication Date: January 1, 2019
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
Print Length: 296 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 25, 2019
***3.5/5 Stars***
To Dream Is To Die was a story that kept me turning the pages. It all unfolded so effortlessly and each time we were given a piece of the puzzle, there was still so much I couldn't wait to learn more about. There was a few different mysteries along with some twists and turns that kept me guessing. So if you adore paranormal stories, set in college, then definitely check this one out.
Brenna Whit was a dark, snarky college student who ended up dying three years ago. She came back from the dead and her life had been different ever since. Now, when she was supposed to be dreaming, she wandered the fade instead. Brenna moved into the college dorms for the first time and I loved watching her friendship unfold with Aeria. They were kindred souls and friendship definitely played a central theme in this story. And while each character was unique, I wasn't able to connect with any of them. I tried my hardest, because the story line was a ton of fun, but sadly I couldn't ever make that connection. Regardless, I still enjoyed reading about Brenna and her journey.
As the story unfolded, we learned more and more about the world that Brenna wandered while her body slept. I was beyond fascinated, especially since some of it seeped into the times when Brenna was awake. It was entertaining watching how it even affected those around her. So when I reached that final page, I was so happy that some of my questions were answered. Yes there is still so much for us to learn, but we stopped at the perfect waiting spot until the next book in this series releases.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the authro. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
To Dream Is To Die was a story that kept me turning the pages. It all unfolded so effortlessly and each time we were given a piece of the puzzle, there was still so much I couldn't wait to learn more about. There was a few different mysteries along with some twists and turns that kept me guessing. So if you adore paranormal stories, set in college, then definitely check this one out.
Brenna Whit was a dark, snarky college student who ended up dying three years ago. She came back from the dead and her life had been different ever since. Now, when she was supposed to be dreaming, she wandered the fade instead. Brenna moved into the college dorms for the first time and I loved watching her friendship unfold with Aeria. They were kindred souls and friendship definitely played a central theme in this story. And while each character was unique, I wasn't able to connect with any of them. I tried my hardest, because the story line was a ton of fun, but sadly I couldn't ever make that connection. Regardless, I still enjoyed reading about Brenna and her journey.
As the story unfolded, we learned more and more about the world that Brenna wandered while her body slept. I was beyond fascinated, especially since some of it seeped into the times when Brenna was awake. It was entertaining watching how it even affected those around her. So when I reached that final page, I was so happy that some of my questions were answered. Yes there is still so much for us to learn, but we stopped at the perfect waiting spot until the next book in this series releases.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the authro. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
May 7, 2019
TO DREAM IS TO DIE … Sounds ominous, right? And yikes!
NA adult paranormal–come to me!
I really like this book’s premise, and if you think about it’s quite spooky. Meaning, imagine you die for a few minutes and come back. Changed. In the weirdest way imaginable. Now, imagine going to sleep just to be awake again in a different plane where lost spirits reign. You get the gist of the story? That’s why I “yikes!”
Okay–betcha that after a while, it won’t be a big deal for Brenna, right? Wrong, because things in the Fade, in this spirit realm, are constantly changing. So, when Brenna finds out somebody can see her, evil spirits break loose, and … well, lots of incredible things happen.
In my mind, this is a perfect college-student-dorm read! It happens right there. In your dorm!! If you aren’t a college student, or don’t have a dorm. Don’t worry, this novel will keep you entertained to no end.
In summary, TO DREAM IS TO DIE has excellent pacing, story-telling, and memorable characters. And Brenna, wow, great characterization. She’s smart. Strong. Kick-ass. Highly recommended.
More on my blog: https://gerardowrites.wordpress.com/2...
NA adult paranormal–come to me!
I really like this book’s premise, and if you think about it’s quite spooky. Meaning, imagine you die for a few minutes and come back. Changed. In the weirdest way imaginable. Now, imagine going to sleep just to be awake again in a different plane where lost spirits reign. You get the gist of the story? That’s why I “yikes!”
Okay–betcha that after a while, it won’t be a big deal for Brenna, right? Wrong, because things in the Fade, in this spirit realm, are constantly changing. So, when Brenna finds out somebody can see her, evil spirits break loose, and … well, lots of incredible things happen.
In my mind, this is a perfect college-student-dorm read! It happens right there. In your dorm!! If you aren’t a college student, or don’t have a dorm. Don’t worry, this novel will keep you entertained to no end.
In summary, TO DREAM IS TO DIE has excellent pacing, story-telling, and memorable characters. And Brenna, wow, great characterization. She’s smart. Strong. Kick-ass. Highly recommended.
More on my blog: https://gerardowrites.wordpress.com/2...
September 26, 2019
Read this full review along with others at: Foals, Fiction& Filigree.
I received a copy of this book from the author, Sarah Lampkin, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! In no way does this affect my review or rating.
Content Warning: Death, Injury, Underaged Drinking/Partying, Premarital Relations, Promiscuity
Brenna is entering her first year of college. Like every other normal teen, she’s anxious for the new stage in life--but it not for the same reasons her peers have. Brenna died for six minutes after being hit by a car. She wasn’t supposed to come back, but the rescue team was able to save her. Since then, Brenna has never been the same. Following the accident, she lost the ability to dream, and instead, enters the Fade where spirits of those who have passed occupy. This ability has changed her reality completely, as she can see past the veil and into the realm where spirits, fae, and demons reside.
But this ability poses its own problems. Brenna discovers that she is not the only one able to pierce the veil, and a buried history of Dead Dreamers, Dream Walkers, and Watchers is discovered. Brenna stumbles across Damon, a Dream Walker, who can see spirits during one of her nightly escapades outside her body. Brenna doesn’t exactly like Damon, but the two become acquaintances throughout the year via Aeria. As the three become closer, events ensue that uncover a secret that has something to do with their college that centers around Brenna’s Dead Dreaming ability--something hidden, something dark.
To Dream Is To Die is a book rich with creativity, character building, and makes the reader yearn for more. While the main character Brenna can come off as being standoffish and snarky, I didn’t mind her character one bit. If anything, I could empathize with her. Having gone through such a horrific experience, and to be brought back to life--with obvious repercussions--I completely understand why she keeps to herself, and isn’t easy to get to know. Most people would see her as “crazy” if she were to reveal her encounter with the Fade.
Equally, Damon is just as “unlikeable” as Brenna. He and Brenna immediately butt heads, and only maintain an acquaintance throughout the entirety of To Dream Is To Die. I found this aspect so interesting, as characters always tend to to be buddy-buddy in the end. The tension between Brenna and Damon is palpable, and in my opinion, enjoyable, as it mimics reality in a sense that people don’t always get along, yet, can live in the same world as one another. I think that Ms. Lampkin has a talent at capturing her character’s true personalities and thoughts, and makes them effective no matter their role in the overall plot.
The only aspect I didn’t like was how Brenna simply followed Aeria in her dislike for Erica. I felt that they both held something against Erica for no reason. Yes, Erica definitely has her flaws as a character (wanting to play the field being one of them). But even with that, I felt that the way they treated her, when she clearly wanted a friendship with (at least) Brenna, was unfounded.
Another small notation, which I’m certain will be focused more upon in the sequel, To Wake the Dead is the want for more detail and backstory. I find the concept in this story so interesting, and I just want to know everything about the Fade, the different “abilities,” and such.
I’m really looking forward to reading To Wake the Dead to see how everything plays out with the college, Brenna’s hostile soul, and how everything will intertwin.
Vulgarity: Moderate.
Sexual content: There is a lot of talk in passing about people getting together, but nothing explicit.
Violence: Moderate, including scenes of injury and discussion of death.
My Rating: ★★★★
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
I received a copy of this book from the author, Sarah Lampkin, in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! In no way does this affect my review or rating.
Content Warning: Death, Injury, Underaged Drinking/Partying, Premarital Relations, Promiscuity
The day I died was the day I started to live with the dead.
Brenna is entering her first year of college. Like every other normal teen, she’s anxious for the new stage in life--but it not for the same reasons her peers have. Brenna died for six minutes after being hit by a car. She wasn’t supposed to come back, but the rescue team was able to save her. Since then, Brenna has never been the same. Following the accident, she lost the ability to dream, and instead, enters the Fade where spirits of those who have passed occupy. This ability has changed her reality completely, as she can see past the veil and into the realm where spirits, fae, and demons reside.
But this ability poses its own problems. Brenna discovers that she is not the only one able to pierce the veil, and a buried history of Dead Dreamers, Dream Walkers, and Watchers is discovered. Brenna stumbles across Damon, a Dream Walker, who can see spirits during one of her nightly escapades outside her body. Brenna doesn’t exactly like Damon, but the two become acquaintances throughout the year via Aeria. As the three become closer, events ensue that uncover a secret that has something to do with their college that centers around Brenna’s Dead Dreaming ability--something hidden, something dark.
To Dream Is To Die is a book rich with creativity, character building, and makes the reader yearn for more. While the main character Brenna can come off as being standoffish and snarky, I didn’t mind her character one bit. If anything, I could empathize with her. Having gone through such a horrific experience, and to be brought back to life--with obvious repercussions--I completely understand why she keeps to herself, and isn’t easy to get to know. Most people would see her as “crazy” if she were to reveal her encounter with the Fade.
Equally, Damon is just as “unlikeable” as Brenna. He and Brenna immediately butt heads, and only maintain an acquaintance throughout the entirety of To Dream Is To Die. I found this aspect so interesting, as characters always tend to to be buddy-buddy in the end. The tension between Brenna and Damon is palpable, and in my opinion, enjoyable, as it mimics reality in a sense that people don’t always get along, yet, can live in the same world as one another. I think that Ms. Lampkin has a talent at capturing her character’s true personalities and thoughts, and makes them effective no matter their role in the overall plot.
The only aspect I didn’t like was how Brenna simply followed Aeria in her dislike for Erica. I felt that they both held something against Erica for no reason. Yes, Erica definitely has her flaws as a character (wanting to play the field being one of them). But even with that, I felt that the way they treated her, when she clearly wanted a friendship with (at least) Brenna, was unfounded.
Another small notation, which I’m certain will be focused more upon in the sequel, To Wake the Dead is the want for more detail and backstory. I find the concept in this story so interesting, and I just want to know everything about the Fade, the different “abilities,” and such.
”So, how did you like your first year of college? With the exception of that little incident.”
Ironically, it made my mood drop even more. But instead of letting him know that, I put on a fake smile. “It was all right. Can’t wait to come back next year.”
I’m really looking forward to reading To Wake the Dead to see how everything plays out with the college, Brenna’s hostile soul, and how everything will intertwin.
Vulgarity: Moderate.
Sexual content: There is a lot of talk in passing about people getting together, but nothing explicit.
Violence: Moderate, including scenes of injury and discussion of death.
My Rating: ★★★★
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
March 10, 2020
This book was such an awesome surprise!! I picked it up and had a hard time putting it down! It is such an unusual concept. Brenna died in a very bad car accident, and she was dead for 6 minutes! But the EMTs worked hard to bring her back and she came back to life again. But now doomed to leave her body every time she fell asleep. She was amongst the dead, or the Faze as they called it. She sees doors, fairy doors and demon doors. It’s sooo cool. Not going to say too much.
I LOVED Brenna as a protagonist!! She is sooo very well written. She’s insecure, but puts on the “I don’t care” attitude. She’s sarcastic. She and her friend Aeria both tend to have that sarcastic attitude. I think everyone agrees that, Damon, “the Watcher” is one of the best characters!! Even some of the more minor side characters were really well written. I love books with well written, complex characters, and this one definitely fits the bill!!
Overall this is just such an awesome book!! I am REALLY looking forward to the next one!! There’s so much more that going to happen, i can’t wait!!! I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS!!! Definitely 5+ Stars!!!
I LOVED Brenna as a protagonist!! She is sooo very well written. She’s insecure, but puts on the “I don’t care” attitude. She’s sarcastic. She and her friend Aeria both tend to have that sarcastic attitude. I think everyone agrees that, Damon, “the Watcher” is one of the best characters!! Even some of the more minor side characters were really well written. I love books with well written, complex characters, and this one definitely fits the bill!!
Overall this is just such an awesome book!! I am REALLY looking forward to the next one!! There’s so much more that going to happen, i can’t wait!!! I VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS!!! Definitely 5+ Stars!!!
September 29, 2020
ENTER AN AMAZING GIVEAWAY AND READ MORE ABOUT THE BOOK HERE!
One is the eternal question human beings revolve around:
What happens after death...
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Well, I have to admit, this brand new series by Sarah Lampkin is giving a quite interesting interpretation of what exists beyond our dreams and imagination. And, she did make sure the plot accompanying that interpretation would be exciting and intriguing.
But, first things first. Let's start with our main character, Brenna. A former party-girl who used to enjoy life a little too much, until that fateful day of her death. Although, she managed to force her spirit back to her body, the Fade, the spiritual plane that exists out there, never really let her fully escape. In fact, every time she fall asleep she returns back to it in spirit form.
And, she never encountered any problems. Before now, that is.
Damon, the irritating guy she met at college is just the first of her problems, which seem to just escalate from there.
Brenna is a strong heroine, with lots of sarcasm and attitude, but not in an over-the-top and annoying way. She is very proud and doesn't like asking for help. In other words? If you're looking for a heroine that is no damsel in distress, look no further. This is the book for you.
The setting of this novel is in a college, a fact that I particularly enjoyed as I love reading or watching movies about US colleges, that are so different than the ones I'm used to.
And, of course, I couldn't forget mentioning the amazing characters surrounding Brenna, all of whom we're meeting slowly, gradually, at the same pace that our heroine does, making them all more lovable, and feeling like they are actually our friends and college acquaintances.
All in all, 4 stars for a book very carefully crafted and well-written by the author.
I can't wait to get my hands on the second installation of the series.
One is the eternal question human beings revolve around:
What happens after death...
Blog ∙ YouTube ∙ Instagram ∙ Facebook ∙ Twitter
Well, I have to admit, this brand new series by Sarah Lampkin is giving a quite interesting interpretation of what exists beyond our dreams and imagination. And, she did make sure the plot accompanying that interpretation would be exciting and intriguing.
But, first things first. Let's start with our main character, Brenna. A former party-girl who used to enjoy life a little too much, until that fateful day of her death. Although, she managed to force her spirit back to her body, the Fade, the spiritual plane that exists out there, never really let her fully escape. In fact, every time she fall asleep she returns back to it in spirit form.
And, she never encountered any problems. Before now, that is.
Damon, the irritating guy she met at college is just the first of her problems, which seem to just escalate from there.
Brenna is a strong heroine, with lots of sarcasm and attitude, but not in an over-the-top and annoying way. She is very proud and doesn't like asking for help. In other words? If you're looking for a heroine that is no damsel in distress, look no further. This is the book for you.
The setting of this novel is in a college, a fact that I particularly enjoyed as I love reading or watching movies about US colleges, that are so different than the ones I'm used to.
And, of course, I couldn't forget mentioning the amazing characters surrounding Brenna, all of whom we're meeting slowly, gradually, at the same pace that our heroine does, making them all more lovable, and feeling like they are actually our friends and college acquaintances.
All in all, 4 stars for a book very carefully crafted and well-written by the author.
I can't wait to get my hands on the second installation of the series.
October 8, 2019
See this review and others at Whispers & Wonder
Power was a kind of drug, more dangerous than most. And I had tasted it.
To Dream Is To Die is the first entry in Sarah Lampkin’s debut paranormal fantasy series Dead Dreamer, and is a beautifully crafted and creative tale of acceptance and loyalty. It thoroughly highlights the effects of secrets kept and the highly volatile consequences of dabbling in the unknown that affect not only a singular person, but all those they’re involved with. It’s a story that examines spirits and the afterlife without crossing that fine line into territory associated with the horror genre, making for a refreshing and relatively light read. Defined by a cast of relatable and oftentimes snarky characters, multiple mysterious threads that converge to reveal the inner workings of the spiritual realm, and a dark setting that houses enigmatic factions working to protect the world of men, this story is surely a page-turner that will leave you craving more.
Lampkin truly excels in her ability to weave several seemingly unconnected mysteries that keep you guessing well past the book’s final pages. It’s difficult to discuss without giving much away, but Brenna’s capacity to walk the Fade when her physical self sleeps is an interesting concept that bemuses even her until she stumbles upon a local legend. As the story progresses, we’re presented with pieces of the puzzle along with Brenna, making this journey of discovery more immersive than expected. With strange and magical ongoings nestled within the environment, our quest for answers begins early, and continues to become more complex the further we read. More interesting, an archetypal villain isn’t explicitly established, so we’re forced to objectively explore the shadows for the truth.
The story itself is set within a small college in Small-Town Virginia, all so very intimate and wonderfully portrayed. Overlapping realms and dark and dense copses surrounding the campus conceal hidden magical doors impeding the flow of beings from other worlds. The characters are well developed with dynamics and actions expected of those in the New Adult age range, albeit sometimes a bit more naive than necessary. Certain aspects are vaguely described, however it’s understandable as our main character is uninformed of the true details and mechanics of the hand she’s been dealt, as well. I have a strong feeling future installments of the series will begin to address the lingering unanswered questions we’re left with.
I found this book to be exceedingly engaging and relatable simply because it reminded me of my own college years at a small university around the same time period this story seems to take place in. I found myself taking a trip down Memory Lane and associating much of what I read with people I knew and things I’ve personally experienced, allowing me to connect with this story on a whole new level. Lampkin’s writing style is very smooth, straightforward and easy to read, injecting pop culture references drawing readers in, and also utilizing facets of lore and mythology to add an otherworldly atmosphere, effortlessly pulling you from reality.
To Dream Is To Die is a solid foundation for a series that has strongly drawn me in, and I thoroughly enjoyed my wanderings through the Fade and into the history of the world Lampkin has created. I’ve already ordered a copy of To Wake the Dead, so I can continue my pilgrimage for answers alongside Brenna and friends. If you’re a fan of paranormal fantasy, and are in search for a unique and gripping tale, then look no further; this story ticks all those boxes and more.
Power was a kind of drug, more dangerous than most. And I had tasted it.
To Dream Is To Die is the first entry in Sarah Lampkin’s debut paranormal fantasy series Dead Dreamer, and is a beautifully crafted and creative tale of acceptance and loyalty. It thoroughly highlights the effects of secrets kept and the highly volatile consequences of dabbling in the unknown that affect not only a singular person, but all those they’re involved with. It’s a story that examines spirits and the afterlife without crossing that fine line into territory associated with the horror genre, making for a refreshing and relatively light read. Defined by a cast of relatable and oftentimes snarky characters, multiple mysterious threads that converge to reveal the inner workings of the spiritual realm, and a dark setting that houses enigmatic factions working to protect the world of men, this story is surely a page-turner that will leave you craving more.
Lampkin truly excels in her ability to weave several seemingly unconnected mysteries that keep you guessing well past the book’s final pages. It’s difficult to discuss without giving much away, but Brenna’s capacity to walk the Fade when her physical self sleeps is an interesting concept that bemuses even her until she stumbles upon a local legend. As the story progresses, we’re presented with pieces of the puzzle along with Brenna, making this journey of discovery more immersive than expected. With strange and magical ongoings nestled within the environment, our quest for answers begins early, and continues to become more complex the further we read. More interesting, an archetypal villain isn’t explicitly established, so we’re forced to objectively explore the shadows for the truth.
The story itself is set within a small college in Small-Town Virginia, all so very intimate and wonderfully portrayed. Overlapping realms and dark and dense copses surrounding the campus conceal hidden magical doors impeding the flow of beings from other worlds. The characters are well developed with dynamics and actions expected of those in the New Adult age range, albeit sometimes a bit more naive than necessary. Certain aspects are vaguely described, however it’s understandable as our main character is uninformed of the true details and mechanics of the hand she’s been dealt, as well. I have a strong feeling future installments of the series will begin to address the lingering unanswered questions we’re left with.
I found this book to be exceedingly engaging and relatable simply because it reminded me of my own college years at a small university around the same time period this story seems to take place in. I found myself taking a trip down Memory Lane and associating much of what I read with people I knew and things I’ve personally experienced, allowing me to connect with this story on a whole new level. Lampkin’s writing style is very smooth, straightforward and easy to read, injecting pop culture references drawing readers in, and also utilizing facets of lore and mythology to add an otherworldly atmosphere, effortlessly pulling you from reality.
To Dream Is To Die is a solid foundation for a series that has strongly drawn me in, and I thoroughly enjoyed my wanderings through the Fade and into the history of the world Lampkin has created. I’ve already ordered a copy of To Wake the Dead, so I can continue my pilgrimage for answers alongside Brenna and friends. If you’re a fan of paranormal fantasy, and are in search for a unique and gripping tale, then look no further; this story ticks all those boxes and more.
February 19, 2019
Full Review on my blog!
Where do I start? This book wasn't what I was expecting after reading the blurb about it, I have mixed feelings for this book, and I'm torn between rating it a 2.5 and 3. It took me a while to get into and I wasn’t sure about it but it eventually picked up; the last 30% of the book was when I really was sucked in, and really brought the story to life, so I'm giving it a 3.5, just because of that.
The main character Brenna was in a car accident that caused her to enter into the Fade, a type of spiritual plane. But she managed to force her spirit back to her body, but the Fade never really let her fully escape. In fact, every time she fall asleep she returns back to it in spirit form, she can also see and hear spirits.And, she never encountered any problems. Before now, that is.
Besides having these abilities, Brenna also has to deal with the problems of a typical college freshman including maintaining her independence from overprotective parents, suffering through a large class load, arguing with her party girl roommate, and befriending a couple who though are nice often cause her to feel like a third wheel.
I liked the realism, how the author actually made the characters have sooo much to deal with including their school work, but i felt like it was an overwhelming amount of, 'I gotta go to class," "I can't go out have to finish this project," I guess that's what we get for the main characters living in a college dorm. It was the whole vibe for the first half of the book, mixed with a few occurrences of Brenna's 'abilities'.... until near the end that it. But yeah!
To Dream Is To Die is an interesting read with a different take on what it means to be a spirit/ghost/demon. The entire concept is pretty cool. I definitely like the idea and thought behind it.
The world of the Fade is intriguing, and I kinda liked that we only got a taste of it, but at the same time I REALLY want to know more!! This series has a lot of potential and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend it.
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Where do I start? This book wasn't what I was expecting after reading the blurb about it, I have mixed feelings for this book, and I'm torn between rating it a 2.5 and 3. It took me a while to get into and I wasn’t sure about it but it eventually picked up; the last 30% of the book was when I really was sucked in, and really brought the story to life, so I'm giving it a 3.5, just because of that.
The main character Brenna was in a car accident that caused her to enter into the Fade, a type of spiritual plane. But she managed to force her spirit back to her body, but the Fade never really let her fully escape. In fact, every time she fall asleep she returns back to it in spirit form, she can also see and hear spirits.And, she never encountered any problems. Before now, that is.
Besides having these abilities, Brenna also has to deal with the problems of a typical college freshman including maintaining her independence from overprotective parents, suffering through a large class load, arguing with her party girl roommate, and befriending a couple who though are nice often cause her to feel like a third wheel.
I liked the realism, how the author actually made the characters have sooo much to deal with including their school work, but i felt like it was an overwhelming amount of, 'I gotta go to class," "I can't go out have to finish this project," I guess that's what we get for the main characters living in a college dorm. It was the whole vibe for the first half of the book, mixed with a few occurrences of Brenna's 'abilities'.... until near the end that it. But yeah!
To Dream Is To Die is an interesting read with a different take on what it means to be a spirit/ghost/demon. The entire concept is pretty cool. I definitely like the idea and thought behind it.
The world of the Fade is intriguing, and I kinda liked that we only got a taste of it, but at the same time I REALLY want to know more!! This series has a lot of potential and I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend it.
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June 26, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. I had a hard time putting it down.
I think the original description does a great job describing the book without revealing anything so I am not going to do a description.
This was a cool different world. Yes there was a special snowflake but its not born to be a special snowflake just circumstance. I liked that there wasn't an instant romance for the main character. There were twist and turns that I did not expect which was great. I hope the second book is just as good.
4 stars for NetGalley and Goodreads because it was enjoyable and I would recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sarah Lampkin for a free copy. This is an honest review.
I think the original description does a great job describing the book without revealing anything so I am not going to do a description.
This was a cool different world. Yes there was a special snowflake but its not born to be a special snowflake just circumstance. I liked that there wasn't an instant romance for the main character. There were twist and turns that I did not expect which was great. I hope the second book is just as good.
4 stars for NetGalley and Goodreads because it was enjoyable and I would recommend it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sarah Lampkin for a free copy. This is an honest review.
January 4, 2019
Holy cow this book! I knew it sounded interesting but i had no idea how sucked into the pages I was gonna get! I loved every page and was sucked in from page one and even now being finished, I want to keep reading and know what happens.
I loved Brenna. I usually dont like the female leads but I have to say that isnt the case here. She was such a strong character even when she had moments of stubbornness.
Aeria and Damon are also 2 characters I couldn't get enough of. It was refreshing to have two good friends in the mix that even I as a reader trusted. I can't wait to read the next book and get more of all 3 of these characters.
This book deals with a girl who walks in the spirit plane while she sleeps. What all that entails you will have to read to find out. You stay in suspense the whole time, unable to figure out where things are going to go, which of course makes it even better. You won't be able to stop reading and get ready for a book hangover once you finish the last page!
I loved Brenna. I usually dont like the female leads but I have to say that isnt the case here. She was such a strong character even when she had moments of stubbornness.
Aeria and Damon are also 2 characters I couldn't get enough of. It was refreshing to have two good friends in the mix that even I as a reader trusted. I can't wait to read the next book and get more of all 3 of these characters.
This book deals with a girl who walks in the spirit plane while she sleeps. What all that entails you will have to read to find out. You stay in suspense the whole time, unable to figure out where things are going to go, which of course makes it even better. You won't be able to stop reading and get ready for a book hangover once you finish the last page!
December 28, 2018
An interesting read with a different take on what it means to be a spirit/ghost/demon. When Brenna heads to college, life gets interesting in more ways than one. At times the book seemed to skip ahead without advancing the plot, but overall, a good read with some unique ideas. My biggest complaint is that although not a cliffhanger exactly, I was left feeling as though the story wasn’t resolved. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
March 22, 2020
I love this book. It kept me up at night thinking about it.
March 13, 2020
Very good first book
I found this book when it was recommended to me by Amazon because I read so many other Urban Fantasy. I bought it, then forgot about it until I found the author on TikTok. She's really funny and engaging there, so I went to buy her other book as well.
Overall, I found this book just like author to be witty, smart, and a really good story. She creates a different universe than all the others out there. Her characters are real, and you grow to like them, especially the protagonist Brenna. Now, you can tell it's a first novel with the occasional clunky dialouge, and just the unpolished word choices that comes with experience. No matter. If you like good female characters in a very good story, then this is for you.
I found this book when it was recommended to me by Amazon because I read so many other Urban Fantasy. I bought it, then forgot about it until I found the author on TikTok. She's really funny and engaging there, so I went to buy her other book as well.
Overall, I found this book just like author to be witty, smart, and a really good story. She creates a different universe than all the others out there. Her characters are real, and you grow to like them, especially the protagonist Brenna. Now, you can tell it's a first novel with the occasional clunky dialouge, and just the unpolished word choices that comes with experience. No matter. If you like good female characters in a very good story, then this is for you.
January 21, 2019
Review coming early February (Blog Tour: daxwrites.com)
October 11, 2019
You can find this review and all of my others over at www.readbookrepeat.wordpress.com
I received a copy of this book from the author via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brenna Whit is eighteen and just beginning her foray into College, she's hoping that this will be different than high school, that she won't be seen as the withdrawn freak, that she'll actually be able to make a friend or two. Mostly she's hoping that her strangeness won't effect her life how it did in high school. You see, Brenna died three years ago, she was dead for six minutes, when she came back she's never been quite the same. When she sleeps, she doesn't sleep, her spirit leaves her body and she can walk through the Fade with the other spirits. When someone sees her in her spirit form, she panics and instantly thinks that her secret is out, however, maybe she should take a step back and not think the worst of everyone. What follows is a paranormal mystery of sorts, in a college setting with a young woman still trying to find her feet, in both worlds.
I'm a little peeved at myself that I let this one sit in my to be read pile for so long. I absolutely flew through it and am kinda biting at the bit to get the rest of the series. I'd put this in the paranormal/supernatural genre, and probably not quite young adult, but it doesn't feel like it fits into the new adult genre.
Our protagonist is eighteen years old and is fresh into college, she's straight forward, says what she thinks, always seems to think the worst, thinks she is better off on her own, and pretty much a bit of a snarky bitch. I don't have an issue with these things, but I must admit, her character did irk me at times. She comes across so bullheaded a fair bit and even though this story isn't exactly young adult, sometimes Brenna's comments and reactions came across rather childish, once again, she IS eighteen, so it is kinda expected I guess. Brenna also comes across as someone who had to grow up too fast, who is strong despite the odds stacked against her - as in, the poor woman never gets to actually sleep or rest, her spirit ejects out of her body as soon as it's asleep, so I guess you could probably chalk up a lot of her snipey, mean comments to the lack of sleep. I know I wouldn't be very fun to be around if I never got some damn rest. She's not a bad character, and I am looking forward to seeing how and if she develops further through the series. When we first meet her roommate, Erica, I got instant spinal crawl, the girl just set me on edge, but, that doesn't mean I like the way that Brenna and her new bestie Aeria treated the girl. Yes she comes across as a bit of a tramp, yes she tries to weasel her way onto other people's potential boyfriends, but I think that once our girl and friend realised there was something else happening to Erice, they could have tried to be a bit less bitchy. Essentially they were being bitches for bitches sake, and I wasn't a big fan of this. Once again, our characters are all around the age of eighteen, so that petty childishness hasn't quite left their personalities, I sincerely hope there's a bit of a change in this the further through the series we travel, and to be honest, I wouldn't mind seeing Erica making a regular appearance in future books. Damon was an alright character, I didn't hate him, but I didn't quite love him either, I"m waiting to see how things go further through the series, though I was pleasantly surprised that a certain trope hasn't occurred between him and Brenna, thus far anyway. All of the characters were well written with distinctive personalities which was nice.
There's not a great deal of world building and that fine, this type of story doesn't really need it in my opinion. The small nuances that were included were a nice change and I really enjoyed them though. For instance, we have the Fade, which is the spirit plane of the human world, Brenna can interact with other spirits while in the Fade, but most of them just turn away because they can tell that she's not dead like they are; we also have the demon doors, and the fairy doors. I absolutely loved the addition of these and thought they were freaking brilliant! I love how the opening of these doors hinges on the lunar cycle, what absolute sheer brilliance, it's so simple but one aspect of this world that I absolutely adore! These doors are also a big part of the plot as Brenna comes across a door that is sealed, which she's never seen before. Little side point, I loved the old woman and I sincerely hope she makes regular appearances in the following books!
The story itself was extremely fast paced and easy reading, I absolutely flew through it. One thing that did irk me a bit was that I feel it could have done with another round or two of editing. The writing didn't flow as well as I believe it could have which was a little bit of a downer for me, but obviously it's not a massive issue because I'm absolutely dying to read the rest of the series. I just found that there was a little bit of an issue with the characters moving through the world, as in, there wasn't enough description of it. For instance, our characters are eating in the cafeteria at lunch and stand up to leave, there's a bit of conversation then all of a sudden they're walking through their dorm room door. There was no actual 'travelling' so to speak, one minute they were in one place and the next they were somewhere completely different. This is just a little thing of mine, it may not be an issue for others at all, it's just something that I picked up that happened more than once which jolted me out of the narrative a bit.
I enjoyed the 'mystery' part of the story, though it was pretty obvious the whole way through who was going to be responsible for what, this isn't a deal breaker for me as the story was super enjoyable and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, I'm really looking forward to continuing the series and cannot wait to see what happens next. If you like a quick, easy read with an engaging story that has a hint of the supernatural, give it a go ;)
I received a copy of this book from the author via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Brenna Whit is eighteen and just beginning her foray into College, she's hoping that this will be different than high school, that she won't be seen as the withdrawn freak, that she'll actually be able to make a friend or two. Mostly she's hoping that her strangeness won't effect her life how it did in high school. You see, Brenna died three years ago, she was dead for six minutes, when she came back she's never been quite the same. When she sleeps, she doesn't sleep, her spirit leaves her body and she can walk through the Fade with the other spirits. When someone sees her in her spirit form, she panics and instantly thinks that her secret is out, however, maybe she should take a step back and not think the worst of everyone. What follows is a paranormal mystery of sorts, in a college setting with a young woman still trying to find her feet, in both worlds.
I'm a little peeved at myself that I let this one sit in my to be read pile for so long. I absolutely flew through it and am kinda biting at the bit to get the rest of the series. I'd put this in the paranormal/supernatural genre, and probably not quite young adult, but it doesn't feel like it fits into the new adult genre.
Our protagonist is eighteen years old and is fresh into college, she's straight forward, says what she thinks, always seems to think the worst, thinks she is better off on her own, and pretty much a bit of a snarky bitch. I don't have an issue with these things, but I must admit, her character did irk me at times. She comes across so bullheaded a fair bit and even though this story isn't exactly young adult, sometimes Brenna's comments and reactions came across rather childish, once again, she IS eighteen, so it is kinda expected I guess. Brenna also comes across as someone who had to grow up too fast, who is strong despite the odds stacked against her - as in, the poor woman never gets to actually sleep or rest, her spirit ejects out of her body as soon as it's asleep, so I guess you could probably chalk up a lot of her snipey, mean comments to the lack of sleep. I know I wouldn't be very fun to be around if I never got some damn rest. She's not a bad character, and I am looking forward to seeing how and if she develops further through the series. When we first meet her roommate, Erica, I got instant spinal crawl, the girl just set me on edge, but, that doesn't mean I like the way that Brenna and her new bestie Aeria treated the girl. Yes she comes across as a bit of a tramp, yes she tries to weasel her way onto other people's potential boyfriends, but I think that once our girl and friend realised there was something else happening to Erice, they could have tried to be a bit less bitchy. Essentially they were being bitches for bitches sake, and I wasn't a big fan of this. Once again, our characters are all around the age of eighteen, so that petty childishness hasn't quite left their personalities, I sincerely hope there's a bit of a change in this the further through the series we travel, and to be honest, I wouldn't mind seeing Erica making a regular appearance in future books. Damon was an alright character, I didn't hate him, but I didn't quite love him either, I"m waiting to see how things go further through the series, though I was pleasantly surprised that a certain trope hasn't occurred between him and Brenna, thus far anyway. All of the characters were well written with distinctive personalities which was nice.
There's not a great deal of world building and that fine, this type of story doesn't really need it in my opinion. The small nuances that were included were a nice change and I really enjoyed them though. For instance, we have the Fade, which is the spirit plane of the human world, Brenna can interact with other spirits while in the Fade, but most of them just turn away because they can tell that she's not dead like they are; we also have the demon doors, and the fairy doors. I absolutely loved the addition of these and thought they were freaking brilliant! I love how the opening of these doors hinges on the lunar cycle, what absolute sheer brilliance, it's so simple but one aspect of this world that I absolutely adore! These doors are also a big part of the plot as Brenna comes across a door that is sealed, which she's never seen before. Little side point, I loved the old woman and I sincerely hope she makes regular appearances in the following books!
The story itself was extremely fast paced and easy reading, I absolutely flew through it. One thing that did irk me a bit was that I feel it could have done with another round or two of editing. The writing didn't flow as well as I believe it could have which was a little bit of a downer for me, but obviously it's not a massive issue because I'm absolutely dying to read the rest of the series. I just found that there was a little bit of an issue with the characters moving through the world, as in, there wasn't enough description of it. For instance, our characters are eating in the cafeteria at lunch and stand up to leave, there's a bit of conversation then all of a sudden they're walking through their dorm room door. There was no actual 'travelling' so to speak, one minute they were in one place and the next they were somewhere completely different. This is just a little thing of mine, it may not be an issue for others at all, it's just something that I picked up that happened more than once which jolted me out of the narrative a bit.
I enjoyed the 'mystery' part of the story, though it was pretty obvious the whole way through who was going to be responsible for what, this isn't a deal breaker for me as the story was super enjoyable and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book, I'm really looking forward to continuing the series and cannot wait to see what happens next. If you like a quick, easy read with an engaging story that has a hint of the supernatural, give it a go ;)
April 2, 2019
In a way, this wasn't an easy book to review.
One of the bigger reasons why, is because I was expecting something different. I requested this book for review through NetGalley under the New Adult category. And honestly? Besides the fact the story takes place on a college campus, there were no real elements of NA to be found.
~The characters were freshmen in college, so barely 18 years old.
~Brenna, our MC, didn't really go through any sort of self-discovery journey. At the end of the book she was pretty much the same as she was in the beginning (a sourly, short tempered teenager). No life-changing realizations, no maturing and growing up, no significant life lessons learned... I mean, she made a friend, who then gets a boyfriend who's always hanging around and eventually becomes her friend too (I'm still confused as to why she hated him so much in the beginning). But I don't think that counts as personal growth.
~There was no serious romantic interest (or if I'm being honest, any type of romantic interest at all). At first, I thought maybe there'd be some sort of romantic drama with Damon (the aforementioned BFF's BF). Maybe a little enemies to lovers trope. That, while very overdone, can be quite juicy if done right. But nope. No boys for our girl Brenna.
~I felt like she was way too naive to be a NA character. There was no sexual awareness, no romantic tension, no nothing. The most we got were lukewarm stomach butterflies (which is more suited to a 13 year old MC than one who's already college aged). And most of the time she acted really immature, too.
Most of the characters, in fact, were rather childish. They hated people for no apparent reason, over-reacted to the most silly things, were petty and low-key selfish.
So it's no surprise, really, that I didn't really connect or empathize with either Brenna, Aeria or Damon (also is Aeria pronounced the same as area? Cause I kept thinking of geometry and surfaces when I read her name).
Brenna was an unlikable character who wasn't really justified in how she treated other people most of the time. To me, she came across as really negative, pessimistic and angry. Just plain pissed off at the world, which, like, I get to a certain extent. You died, came back to life, it messed stuff up. I've also read stories with MC's meant to be unlikeable (Tarryn Fisher is an author that does a wonderful job in that regard). But, I don't think that was the idea here. Brenna just needed to chill a little.
By the end of the book I felt especially bad for Erica. In the end, I think the bubbly, flighty, party-girl facade was merely an act to get attention and, in reality, she was a very lonely person just looking for a true friend. Which is super sad when you stop to think how both Brenna and Aeria treated her.
The other category this book is classified under is Sci-Fi and Fantasy. Personally, I think the whole ghosts/demons/fairies(?) aspect makes this more of a Paranormal story, but that's not really all that relevant.
As a whole, I liked the Dead Dreamer premise. It's interesting and fresh. There are some ghosts stories out there, but they tend to revolve around grim reapers, typically.
The thing with there being both the spirits of the deceased, and other non-human spirits roaming around was original and different. I found it weird, however, how there's mischievous ones (the demons), evil/nasty ones (the fairies), but no nice spirits (gotta keep the balance of the universe!).
Sadly the world building and the setting of the premise was done in a way that was rather boring and slowed the pace of the story considerably. And really, plot wise, not much happend this book. The premise of the story was presented, and we were introduced to a group of people that'll act as the antagonists (but not their motives). Maybe now that the boring part is out of the way, some serious plot development will take place. I mean, that last 5-10% of the book was in fact the part I found most compelling. Was that enough to make the rest of the book great? Not really.
In the end, this wasn't a bad book. It was just too slow and bland for me. But I think it could appeal to the Young Adult audiences. So maybe give it a read and judge for yourself!
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
November 23, 2019
Chronique de Diana :
https://followthereader2016.wordpress...
Que se passe-t-il après la mort ? C’est un peu la question que toute l’humanité se pose. J’avoue que même sans me tarauder, c’est un mystère qui vous titille toujours un peu par moment. Y’a t-il seulement un après ?
C’est ce que va expérimenter notre héroïne Brenna, elle est morte pendant 6 minutes et elle a été réanimée, pourtant elle n’était pas censée revenir et un profond changement s’est opéré pendant son retour parmi les vivants. Dès lors qu’elle s’endort elle peut se retrouver sur un autre plan (non on ne parle pas de la quatrième dimension là mais bien celui où se trouve les âmes perdues) car notre héroïne ne peut plus rêver depuis l’accident de voiture et son expérience de mort imminente.
J’ai aimé ce côté creepy et un peu angoissant mais ici on ne tombe pas dans l’horrifique et c’est très agréable à lire. L’auteure pour sa première saga fait assez fort car elle arrive à nous emporter en créant plusieurs intrigues qui ne semblent pas avoir de lien, mais au fur et à mesure Brenna va en découvrir plus sur son don ou sa malédiction. L’intrigue prend en complexité et s’étoffe toujours plus avec nos nouvelles découvertes. Elle va vouloir comprendre ce nouvel univers et l’explorer surtout lorsqu’elle comprend que si elle peut voir les âmes, certaines peuvent la voir elle.
Ce qu’on peut retenir sur notre jeune héroïne c’est qu’elle pensait que sa première année à la fac serait plus calme, elle se voyait faire la fête et profiter tout simplement de sa jeunesse au lieu de quitter son corps dès lors qu’elle ferme les yeux pour partir dans « The Fade » ( je ne sais pas comment le traduire, les limbes peut être).
C’est un personnage fort, qui ne manque pas de répartie. Elle n’aime pas devoir demander de l’aide et c’est définitivement une femme forte loin des demoiselles en détresse. C’est une jeune femme de son époque, autonome, réfléchie.
Les personnages secondaires sont aussi là pour apporter un peu de relief à ce récit et notamment Damon.
J’ai aimé le contexte de cette première année à la fac qui est un changement en soi, la rupture avec l’adolescence et le début de l’âge adulte. Le fait de devoir se prendre en charge, de s’affirmer. C’est aussi de ça que parle ce récit mais pas que. J’aime particulièrement bien le titre ; rêver c’est mourir, qui donne tout le ton de ce premier tome.
C’est une bonne urban fantasy avec de l’action, une intrigue travaillée et une équipe de personnages qui sait donner du rythme au récit. Une belle lecture.
C’est très accessible pour une lecture VO, c’est un récit qui n’est pas trop long et le style de l’auteure est agréable, j’ai déjà le second tome dans ma PAL et j’espère pouvoir le lire rapidement.
https://followthereader2016.wordpress...
Que se passe-t-il après la mort ? C’est un peu la question que toute l’humanité se pose. J’avoue que même sans me tarauder, c’est un mystère qui vous titille toujours un peu par moment. Y’a t-il seulement un après ?
C’est ce que va expérimenter notre héroïne Brenna, elle est morte pendant 6 minutes et elle a été réanimée, pourtant elle n’était pas censée revenir et un profond changement s’est opéré pendant son retour parmi les vivants. Dès lors qu’elle s’endort elle peut se retrouver sur un autre plan (non on ne parle pas de la quatrième dimension là mais bien celui où se trouve les âmes perdues) car notre héroïne ne peut plus rêver depuis l’accident de voiture et son expérience de mort imminente.
J’ai aimé ce côté creepy et un peu angoissant mais ici on ne tombe pas dans l’horrifique et c’est très agréable à lire. L’auteure pour sa première saga fait assez fort car elle arrive à nous emporter en créant plusieurs intrigues qui ne semblent pas avoir de lien, mais au fur et à mesure Brenna va en découvrir plus sur son don ou sa malédiction. L’intrigue prend en complexité et s’étoffe toujours plus avec nos nouvelles découvertes. Elle va vouloir comprendre ce nouvel univers et l’explorer surtout lorsqu’elle comprend que si elle peut voir les âmes, certaines peuvent la voir elle.
Ce qu’on peut retenir sur notre jeune héroïne c’est qu’elle pensait que sa première année à la fac serait plus calme, elle se voyait faire la fête et profiter tout simplement de sa jeunesse au lieu de quitter son corps dès lors qu’elle ferme les yeux pour partir dans « The Fade » ( je ne sais pas comment le traduire, les limbes peut être).
C’est un personnage fort, qui ne manque pas de répartie. Elle n’aime pas devoir demander de l’aide et c’est définitivement une femme forte loin des demoiselles en détresse. C’est une jeune femme de son époque, autonome, réfléchie.
Les personnages secondaires sont aussi là pour apporter un peu de relief à ce récit et notamment Damon.
J’ai aimé le contexte de cette première année à la fac qui est un changement en soi, la rupture avec l’adolescence et le début de l’âge adulte. Le fait de devoir se prendre en charge, de s’affirmer. C’est aussi de ça que parle ce récit mais pas que. J’aime particulièrement bien le titre ; rêver c’est mourir, qui donne tout le ton de ce premier tome.
C’est une bonne urban fantasy avec de l’action, une intrigue travaillée et une équipe de personnages qui sait donner du rythme au récit. Une belle lecture.
C’est très accessible pour une lecture VO, c’est un récit qui n’est pas trop long et le style de l’auteure est agréable, j’ai déjà le second tome dans ma PAL et j’espère pouvoir le lire rapidement.
December 7, 2018
Spoilers: What happens when we die? Do we go to our particular versions of the Other World? Do we hover around this world with unfinished business? Do we fade away into nothingness?
Even more mysterious are near death experiences, those who have been to the Other Side only to return with tales of bright lights, relatives telling them their work isn't finished, and a new purpose when they return to share their story and make the world a better place.
Sarah Lampkin's book, To Dream Is To Die which is part of the Dead Dreamer series is a unique take on near death experiences. The Dark Fantasy novel offers us a college freshman who wakes from a coma to discover that she has unusual abilities and must use them to help others.
When she was a teenager, Brenna Harp got into a severe car accident which temporarily killed her. She was restored to life but received some unusual powers in the process. When Brenna sleeps, her spirit travels outside her body and she can also see and hear spirits and other magical creatures during astral projection.
Besides having these supernatural abilities, Brenna also has to deal with the problems of a typical college freshman including maintaining her independence from overprotective parents, suffering through a large class load, arguing with her party girl roommate, and befriending a couple who though are nice often cause her to feel like a third wheel.
To Dream is To Die is in the grand tradition of “Young Person With Abilities Saves The World” but what makes this take stands out is the commitment that Lampkin gives in creating an original power and world that Brenna inhabits.
During her somnambulist jaunts, Brenna, who is called a Dreamer, enters a place she calls The Fade where she can see the dead and other beings. Spirits, including her college's late President, often give her cryptic comments leaving her to guess what their motivations are.
Besides the Spirits, Lampkin also rewrites Demons and Fairies in her books. While common consensus features demons as hateful monsters who torture humans for fun and Fairies as mischievous but ultimately helpful creatures, Lampkin reverses the stereotypes. Instead Demons are the more helpful creatures while Fairies are the ones Brenna definitely does not want to mess with. This is particularly important when Brenna infiltrates a secret organization that is so determined to destroy all demons that they won't let little things like murder or the sacrifice of a child get in the way of that goal.
Lampkin doesn't make her protagonist perfect. Brenna has limitations to her abilities. Because her spirit travels during sleep, her body doesn't actually rest so during the day, she is often fatigued, bad tempered, and sarcastic. Also her body is defenseless when she travels so she is at the mercy of dark spirits who possess her or roommates who play practical jokes on her. Thankfully she is helped by her friends, Damon, a Watcher who can sense ghosts and his girlfriend, Aeria who, though doesn't have any such abilities, is a good friend and as protective of Brenna and Damon as a tigress to her cubs.
The mystery that surrounds Brenna in her first year of college is solid. There are passages such as early conversations which require the Reader to pay attention as they provide intriguing clues. There are also some genuinely frightening moments such as Brenna's encounters with a female spirit who delights in physically and mentally torturing her human victims. Most importantly Brenna discovers the back story of her abilities and discovers other people are Dreamers. She also learns of a wider conspiracy and more frightening creatures on the horizon just waiting for her or another Dreamer to close their eyes.
The ending is completely open ended and purposely sets us up for a sequel. If this book is any indication, then it should be another interesting, unique, and terrifying trip to the Other Side.
Even more mysterious are near death experiences, those who have been to the Other Side only to return with tales of bright lights, relatives telling them their work isn't finished, and a new purpose when they return to share their story and make the world a better place.
Sarah Lampkin's book, To Dream Is To Die which is part of the Dead Dreamer series is a unique take on near death experiences. The Dark Fantasy novel offers us a college freshman who wakes from a coma to discover that she has unusual abilities and must use them to help others.
When she was a teenager, Brenna Harp got into a severe car accident which temporarily killed her. She was restored to life but received some unusual powers in the process. When Brenna sleeps, her spirit travels outside her body and she can also see and hear spirits and other magical creatures during astral projection.
Besides having these supernatural abilities, Brenna also has to deal with the problems of a typical college freshman including maintaining her independence from overprotective parents, suffering through a large class load, arguing with her party girl roommate, and befriending a couple who though are nice often cause her to feel like a third wheel.
To Dream is To Die is in the grand tradition of “Young Person With Abilities Saves The World” but what makes this take stands out is the commitment that Lampkin gives in creating an original power and world that Brenna inhabits.
During her somnambulist jaunts, Brenna, who is called a Dreamer, enters a place she calls The Fade where she can see the dead and other beings. Spirits, including her college's late President, often give her cryptic comments leaving her to guess what their motivations are.
Besides the Spirits, Lampkin also rewrites Demons and Fairies in her books. While common consensus features demons as hateful monsters who torture humans for fun and Fairies as mischievous but ultimately helpful creatures, Lampkin reverses the stereotypes. Instead Demons are the more helpful creatures while Fairies are the ones Brenna definitely does not want to mess with. This is particularly important when Brenna infiltrates a secret organization that is so determined to destroy all demons that they won't let little things like murder or the sacrifice of a child get in the way of that goal.
Lampkin doesn't make her protagonist perfect. Brenna has limitations to her abilities. Because her spirit travels during sleep, her body doesn't actually rest so during the day, she is often fatigued, bad tempered, and sarcastic. Also her body is defenseless when she travels so she is at the mercy of dark spirits who possess her or roommates who play practical jokes on her. Thankfully she is helped by her friends, Damon, a Watcher who can sense ghosts and his girlfriend, Aeria who, though doesn't have any such abilities, is a good friend and as protective of Brenna and Damon as a tigress to her cubs.
The mystery that surrounds Brenna in her first year of college is solid. There are passages such as early conversations which require the Reader to pay attention as they provide intriguing clues. There are also some genuinely frightening moments such as Brenna's encounters with a female spirit who delights in physically and mentally torturing her human victims. Most importantly Brenna discovers the back story of her abilities and discovers other people are Dreamers. She also learns of a wider conspiracy and more frightening creatures on the horizon just waiting for her or another Dreamer to close their eyes.
The ending is completely open ended and purposely sets us up for a sequel. If this book is any indication, then it should be another interesting, unique, and terrifying trip to the Other Side.
February 22, 2019
**3.5 Stars**
Brenna is excited to get away to college where she has a chance to be someone new, not the odd girl who died that she was known as in high school. But what nobody knows is that ever since she died and came back to life, Brenna does not dream- instead when she sleeps her spirit leaves her body and experiences a different realm she calls the Fade, where ghost, demons and fairies live. When a boy actually sees her outside her body, Brenna realizes that there is a lot about this supernatural realm she doe snot know- but it seems she needs to figure it out quick.
I actually assumed when I first picked up A Dream Is To Die that it would be an urban fantasy adventure kinda story, but in actuality I would call this more a paranormal mystery. I think the idea of astral projection is really interesting, and that is what our main character can do (even though it is never called that) after she died from an accident years before. When she leaves her body, she can see other kinds of creatures including ghosts and doorways to other worlds that don't exist in out plane. It was a really interesting concept and makes me curious.
Brenna is a very prickly character, always saying her blunt version of the truth, not really interested in making friends, and lacking almost all social skills. I liked that she kept everything real (minus her hiding her secret life, but whatever) and you always knew her mind and where others stood with her. But while she was prickly, she also was kind and took care of those in need- even if the need was self inflicted binge drinking. She was a multifaceted character that at times I wondered what she was going to do next- especially in regards to the supernatural stuff.
There was plenty of twists, turns, surprises and drama to keep me reading, mixing the paranormal, mystery and angsty college stuff together to create a very different kind of book. Based on the questions left at the ending though, I would say that this is the first book in a series, and I can't even imagine where the next book will take Brenna and her friends.
I reviewed a complimentary copy of this title. Come hang out with me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Brenna is excited to get away to college where she has a chance to be someone new, not the odd girl who died that she was known as in high school. But what nobody knows is that ever since she died and came back to life, Brenna does not dream- instead when she sleeps her spirit leaves her body and experiences a different realm she calls the Fade, where ghost, demons and fairies live. When a boy actually sees her outside her body, Brenna realizes that there is a lot about this supernatural realm she doe snot know- but it seems she needs to figure it out quick.
I actually assumed when I first picked up A Dream Is To Die that it would be an urban fantasy adventure kinda story, but in actuality I would call this more a paranormal mystery. I think the idea of astral projection is really interesting, and that is what our main character can do (even though it is never called that) after she died from an accident years before. When she leaves her body, she can see other kinds of creatures including ghosts and doorways to other worlds that don't exist in out plane. It was a really interesting concept and makes me curious.
Brenna is a very prickly character, always saying her blunt version of the truth, not really interested in making friends, and lacking almost all social skills. I liked that she kept everything real (minus her hiding her secret life, but whatever) and you always knew her mind and where others stood with her. But while she was prickly, she also was kind and took care of those in need- even if the need was self inflicted binge drinking. She was a multifaceted character that at times I wondered what she was going to do next- especially in regards to the supernatural stuff.
There was plenty of twists, turns, surprises and drama to keep me reading, mixing the paranormal, mystery and angsty college stuff together to create a very different kind of book. Based on the questions left at the ending though, I would say that this is the first book in a series, and I can't even imagine where the next book will take Brenna and her friends.
I reviewed a complimentary copy of this title. Come hang out with me at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
October 1, 2019
I really enjoyed this book except for a few drawbacks. To begin with, the premise of the book was creative and interesting. While it's not fast-paced and one could even say there isn't that much plot development happening, I loved simply hanging out in this world, finding out about the supernatural elements bit by bit together with the characters and exploring the mysteries.
Moving forward, some reviews have talked about how this book should not be considered new adult because the main character, while in college, has no real romantic interest or sexual activity *eye roll*. I feel like I have to defend the author/publishers/the marketing team because (duh) new adult is an age range which means it has nothing to do with the amount of sex in a book. Also, does the fact that someone is in collage or have reached a certain age automatically mean that they have to engage in romantic/sexual activity? In fact I even thought that the lack of main character's romatic/sexual activity in the book was more understandable that it would have been vice versa having in mind the things she has to deal with in the story. I felt like this kind of character portrayal was more realistic and I appreciated it.
Now something I didn't like was how much drama and girl-hate was at the first half of the book (still a thing moving foward but less so). I didn't see anyone else mentioning this but I felt like Brena (MC) and especially Aeria (her best friend) were extremely unfair and mean to Erica's character. Women tearing down and slut-shaming other women is something I do not appreciate and that's a trope I don't think should get written or published. Girls fighting over boys is so not 2019, come on that does not even happen in reality especially not with grown women.
So the story hooked me and I'm continuing with the second book right away. I'm excited about where the plot is going, how the world is expanding, powers growing and with every question answered a new mystery or a challenge appears. Basically I just can't wait for more minus the downside that I mentioned which hopefully gets solved throughout the series.
Moving forward, some reviews have talked about how this book should not be considered new adult because the main character, while in college, has no real romantic interest or sexual activity *eye roll*. I feel like I have to defend the author/publishers/the marketing team because (duh) new adult is an age range which means it has nothing to do with the amount of sex in a book. Also, does the fact that someone is in collage or have reached a certain age automatically mean that they have to engage in romantic/sexual activity? In fact I even thought that the lack of main character's romatic/sexual activity in the book was more understandable that it would have been vice versa having in mind the things she has to deal with in the story. I felt like this kind of character portrayal was more realistic and I appreciated it.
Now something I didn't like was how much drama and girl-hate was at the first half of the book (still a thing moving foward but less so). I didn't see anyone else mentioning this but I felt like Brena (MC) and especially Aeria (her best friend) were extremely unfair and mean to Erica's character. Women tearing down and slut-shaming other women is something I do not appreciate and that's a trope I don't think should get written or published. Girls fighting over boys is so not 2019, come on that does not even happen in reality especially not with grown women.
So the story hooked me and I'm continuing with the second book right away. I'm excited about where the plot is going, how the world is expanding, powers growing and with every question answered a new mystery or a challenge appears. Basically I just can't wait for more minus the downside that I mentioned which hopefully gets solved throughout the series.
February 18, 2019
This book is the perfect swing from Young Adult to New Adult. If you've been wanting to try a new, more mature genre, I think this is a great book to start with.
We follow the main character who is off on her own as she starts college and all the crazy, new things that come with being on her own. But she isn't like most college students since she is essentially dead. After a tragic accident in high school, whenever she falls asleep, her soul is whisked out of her body and ventures into this secret, ghost-like state. That is, until she meets a guy who may be the first human to see her.
If you love lighter paranormal stories without all the scary stuff, To Dream Is To Die combines a great contemporary, college life with the supernatural world. There is a ton of drama from cute guys to crazy roommates to unforgettable friendships. This book will have something going on around every corner.
Overall, I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. We venture into the mystery of her condition as she meets more characters involved. There's even demons and fairies, so watch out for them!
This book is easy to read and I would recommend it for those looking for a fun, college story with a paranormal twist.
We follow the main character who is off on her own as she starts college and all the crazy, new things that come with being on her own. But she isn't like most college students since she is essentially dead. After a tragic accident in high school, whenever she falls asleep, her soul is whisked out of her body and ventures into this secret, ghost-like state. That is, until she meets a guy who may be the first human to see her.
If you love lighter paranormal stories without all the scary stuff, To Dream Is To Die combines a great contemporary, college life with the supernatural world. There is a ton of drama from cute guys to crazy roommates to unforgettable friendships. This book will have something going on around every corner.
Overall, I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. We venture into the mystery of her condition as she meets more characters involved. There's even demons and fairies, so watch out for them!
This book is easy to read and I would recommend it for those looking for a fun, college story with a paranormal twist.
February 9, 2019
Welcome to college......and the fade, where we meet Brenna Whit, a witty, intriguing, enigma of an eighteen year old. She has a secret....her spirit wanders the fade while her body sleeps and she's been seen!
Brenna is my favourite character, she ticks the boxes that are a must for a young adult/paranormal book. She's strong, loyal and fierce, with a lovely sarcastic streak that warms my sarcastic heart.
Brenna becomes friends with Aeria, a fun, fiesty red-head who will gladly fight her corner. And Damon, a cheeky, friendly guy who rubs Brenna up the wrong way.
This is the main trio. They work really well together. Combined they pull the strings that help the story fall into place nicely.
Full of details, but not overly graphic, this book pulls you in and keeps you spellbound. I did struggle to put it down....a little sleep was lost!
The character that I didn't like was perfect, exactly who I should dislike. Nicely written and very subtly used. I'm not saying more than that as I want you to have a few surprises.
This is a perfect read for young adults with a love of the paranormal. This is the first book in the series and I cant wait to get stuck into the next book.
There is a prequel but I'd highly recommend reading it AFTER this one as it gives too much away and this one (and Brenna) deserve to be experienced unbiased......the surprises wouldn't be nearly as good otherwise.
A nice, solid 4 out of 5 stars for this.....hurry up next installment!
Brenna is my favourite character, she ticks the boxes that are a must for a young adult/paranormal book. She's strong, loyal and fierce, with a lovely sarcastic streak that warms my sarcastic heart.
Brenna becomes friends with Aeria, a fun, fiesty red-head who will gladly fight her corner. And Damon, a cheeky, friendly guy who rubs Brenna up the wrong way.
This is the main trio. They work really well together. Combined they pull the strings that help the story fall into place nicely.
Full of details, but not overly graphic, this book pulls you in and keeps you spellbound. I did struggle to put it down....a little sleep was lost!
The character that I didn't like was perfect, exactly who I should dislike. Nicely written and very subtly used. I'm not saying more than that as I want you to have a few surprises.
This is a perfect read for young adults with a love of the paranormal. This is the first book in the series and I cant wait to get stuck into the next book.
There is a prequel but I'd highly recommend reading it AFTER this one as it gives too much away and this one (and Brenna) deserve to be experienced unbiased......the surprises wouldn't be nearly as good otherwise.
A nice, solid 4 out of 5 stars for this.....hurry up next installment!
March 11, 2019
To Dream is to Die is the first part in the Dead Dreamer series. Having just got back into paranormal books I was looking forward to reading this one. There aren't many books on the market based around dreams etc so it made for a unique subject. Add to that we have the Fade with ghosts and demons, my hopes were quite high!
Although listed as a new adult/romance paranormal book, I felt this could have easily say in the YA category. Yes there is mentions of drinking, drugs (Although its more Pot and its in passing) and some adult situations there was no sex or anything I would put as not suitable for the more mature teen.
Although the book is told from Brenna's point of view, a 19 year old student. Her language came across as younger at times. My daughters are 18, 16 and 14 and she didn't feel very mature compared to them in how she thought, acted or spoke. Again making me feel this was more of a YA.
Brenna is a good character though. She is has a unique gift which she got after a car accident she was involved in 3 years before that killed her. I found her rather melancholy at times and although I liked her sarcasm and whit when she was with her best friend Aria, it wasn't enough to make me like her more. In fact, I preferred Damon, Mike and Erica at times more than Brenna and was more on their side than hers earlier in the book.
The story has a quick pace which keeps you interested and made this a fast page turner for me. I especially liked the 'club' Brenna joins later in the book and found those scenes were fun and interesting with a great supporting cast. In fact I had only a few issues with this book and that's why it didn't get more than 3.5 stars from me.
Firstly I do not give spoilers at all, I will happily elaborate if you wish to message me for more details but will not put them here so apologise for my vagueness. One instance sticks out heavily in my mind concerning the President and concert. This was completely washed over and Brenna who meticulously stresses and investigates everything, this instance seemed to ignore the event entirely. There were other mysteries in the book surrounding another character that even towards the end I was left thinking, 'Duh is Brenna really that stupid to not see something?' I guess with age is naivety yet Brenna seemed to focus on things that weren't necessary and then dismiss those clues that were really glowing brightly on a 50ft sign!
I love a mystery and To Dream is to Die is definitely a paranormal mystery where romance takes a back seat. Again I still feel this could be read by mature YA readers. I will continue to read the series as there is so many twists and turns even I am wondering who Brenna should trust and what's going to happen. I just feel this book could have been put together better - 3.5 stars (This book was gifted to me via NetGalley for an impartial review).
Although listed as a new adult/romance paranormal book, I felt this could have easily say in the YA category. Yes there is mentions of drinking, drugs (Although its more Pot and its in passing) and some adult situations there was no sex or anything I would put as not suitable for the more mature teen.
Although the book is told from Brenna's point of view, a 19 year old student. Her language came across as younger at times. My daughters are 18, 16 and 14 and she didn't feel very mature compared to them in how she thought, acted or spoke. Again making me feel this was more of a YA.
Brenna is a good character though. She is has a unique gift which she got after a car accident she was involved in 3 years before that killed her. I found her rather melancholy at times and although I liked her sarcasm and whit when she was with her best friend Aria, it wasn't enough to make me like her more. In fact, I preferred Damon, Mike and Erica at times more than Brenna and was more on their side than hers earlier in the book.
The story has a quick pace which keeps you interested and made this a fast page turner for me. I especially liked the 'club' Brenna joins later in the book and found those scenes were fun and interesting with a great supporting cast. In fact I had only a few issues with this book and that's why it didn't get more than 3.5 stars from me.
Firstly I do not give spoilers at all, I will happily elaborate if you wish to message me for more details but will not put them here so apologise for my vagueness. One instance sticks out heavily in my mind concerning the President and concert. This was completely washed over and Brenna who meticulously stresses and investigates everything, this instance seemed to ignore the event entirely. There were other mysteries in the book surrounding another character that even towards the end I was left thinking, 'Duh is Brenna really that stupid to not see something?' I guess with age is naivety yet Brenna seemed to focus on things that weren't necessary and then dismiss those clues that were really glowing brightly on a 50ft sign!
I love a mystery and To Dream is to Die is definitely a paranormal mystery where romance takes a back seat. Again I still feel this could be read by mature YA readers. I will continue to read the series as there is so many twists and turns even I am wondering who Brenna should trust and what's going to happen. I just feel this book could have been put together better - 3.5 stars (This book was gifted to me via NetGalley for an impartial review).
January 5, 2019
To Dream is to Die is the first of the Dead Dreamer series, and it starts with a REALLY intriguing and unique premise. The main character Brenna was in a car accident that caused her to enter into the Fade, a type of spiritual plane, when she falls asleep at night. I'll admit this book isn't a genre/topic that I typically choose to read but I couldn't put it down after about halfway through the book! The beginning started out a bit slower for me but once the story picked up, I needed to know what happened next. I really loved the supporting characters that were introduced throughout the story and there were twists that I never saw coming! I'm excited to pick up the next book in the series.
*This ARC was provided to use from The Parliament House Press for an honest/unbiased review.
*This ARC was provided to use from The Parliament House Press for an honest/unbiased review.
April 19, 2019
To Dream Is To Die: The Dead Dreamer Series
[Small Spoilers]
This book was an intriguing and fast past read! The plot was unique and one that I had not personally read before. I found the idea of Brenna (main character) being able to come out of her body at will to be a really great idea. I also felt like Lampkin provided the reader with a complex narrative, that remained cohesive, which I was thankful for. At times I did feel myself becoming annoyed or aggravated with characters and that is when I know that I have been deeply ensnared! The main character Brenna, was someone I truly enjoyed learning about, she was interesting and her journey kept me engaged throughout. There were a couple of characters in the book that I had a love/hate relationship with (Erica and Damon), although at times their personalities could be frustrating, especially in the beginning, I found that I truly enjoyed the development of the characters more towards the end of the book. Although I still have some questions about the Fade, I feel that Lampkin will answer them in future books. A highly enjoyable read, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out!
[Given This Book for a Review from NetGalley]
[Small Spoilers]
This book was an intriguing and fast past read! The plot was unique and one that I had not personally read before. I found the idea of Brenna (main character) being able to come out of her body at will to be a really great idea. I also felt like Lampkin provided the reader with a complex narrative, that remained cohesive, which I was thankful for. At times I did feel myself becoming annoyed or aggravated with characters and that is when I know that I have been deeply ensnared! The main character Brenna, was someone I truly enjoyed learning about, she was interesting and her journey kept me engaged throughout. There were a couple of characters in the book that I had a love/hate relationship with (Erica and Damon), although at times their personalities could be frustrating, especially in the beginning, I found that I truly enjoyed the development of the characters more towards the end of the book. Although I still have some questions about the Fade, I feel that Lampkin will answer them in future books. A highly enjoyable read, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out!
[Given This Book for a Review from NetGalley]
March 6, 2020
Even though there have been multiple books I have liked this year, so far this is one of the the few that I actually had a hard time putting down. This book has a really sting female lead that's just starting college. I'm so happy that her main focus isn't romance. There are some romance books that I like but it seems like the main characters main focus is always to find love instead of figuring herself out and making herself the focus. Brenna is a character I can somewhat relate too and she's one of my favorites so far this year. I really like the relationship she's able to make at college and how they have her back through everything. The paranormal aspects made the book even better!
February 8, 2020
I would like to thank the Netgalley site and the author for this partnership.
I love the cover of this book, it's what attracted me right away to the request for this partnership.
It features Brenna, who as soon as she turns 18, goes to university and makes a lot of friends. But she's hiding something. Since she had her accident three years ago, her mind wanders in the Fade while she sleeps. She wants to hide it from everyone until the day she sees a spirit watching her, she's afraid that everything will be revealed. Brenna has a lot to worry about.
A first book of this series that I loved, everything I like in this kind of books, suspense, full of twists and turns, a captivating story, endearing characters. Can't wait to read the book two.
I love the cover of this book, it's what attracted me right away to the request for this partnership.
It features Brenna, who as soon as she turns 18, goes to university and makes a lot of friends. But she's hiding something. Since she had her accident three years ago, her mind wanders in the Fade while she sleeps. She wants to hide it from everyone until the day she sees a spirit watching her, she's afraid that everything will be revealed. Brenna has a lot to worry about.
A first book of this series that I loved, everything I like in this kind of books, suspense, full of twists and turns, a captivating story, endearing characters. Can't wait to read the book two.
February 10, 2019
I struggled a little with this book, I have mixed feelings about it. The things I liked the most are the main characters, Brenna and her sarcasm, her streght and her relationship with Damon. I like that the demons are little mischievous creatures and not bad. The fairies instead are evil but we don't know much about what they do. The villains in this story are humans that interfer with the natural order and use their devious believes to hurt other creatures and other peoples. What I didn't particulary enjoy are the pauses, because the story follows the timings of a college year. Also I couldn't relate much to all the college stuff because I am not American but I enjoyed the plot so far.
March 18, 2019
4 STARS
YOU CAN ALSO FIND THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG https://antonellasbookworld.blogspot....
To Dream is to die is a paranormal novel set in college. The main character, Brenna, is a girl who died few years ago and 'resuscitated' after six minutes. She has a weird ability since her death: when she falls asleep her spirit goes out of her body and wonders around.
I wasn't really sure about this book at the beginning, only because of the kind of story behind. I wasn't sure the author would have been able to develop a story with an idea like this, but I have to say I'm not disappointed. There were times I got bored, I admit, but overall the story was well built and it was interesting. Brenna, the main character, wasn't really likable at the beginning and I couldn't connect with her, but the more I read the more I started to understand her, her weird ability and her way to see things.
I liked the way the story was developed. Especially after half of the book it got more interesting, with all the gatekeepers and Maura and everything.
The end kept me on edge, honestly though, only because I have to wait for the second book.
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
YOU CAN ALSO FIND THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG https://antonellasbookworld.blogspot....
To Dream is to die is a paranormal novel set in college. The main character, Brenna, is a girl who died few years ago and 'resuscitated' after six minutes. She has a weird ability since her death: when she falls asleep her spirit goes out of her body and wonders around.
I wasn't really sure about this book at the beginning, only because of the kind of story behind. I wasn't sure the author would have been able to develop a story with an idea like this, but I have to say I'm not disappointed. There were times I got bored, I admit, but overall the story was well built and it was interesting. Brenna, the main character, wasn't really likable at the beginning and I couldn't connect with her, but the more I read the more I started to understand her, her weird ability and her way to see things.
I liked the way the story was developed. Especially after half of the book it got more interesting, with all the gatekeepers and Maura and everything.
The end kept me on edge, honestly though, only because I have to wait for the second book.
*Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
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