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The Waking Sleep #1
Sleeper
In a city that never sleeps...
Daria is about to wake up.
Sixteen-year-old Daria Grayson lives in The Great City of Progress, where the highest virtues are productivity and efficiency. School lasts twelve hours a day, not including mandatory sports and mountains of homework. Days off are limited to one public holiday a year. And as for sleep – the Guidelines restrict rest to forty-five minutes per night. No exceptions.
All of it is made possible by a little white pill called Sendrax.
Calibrated by the Guild of Doctors, your daily dose gives you more energy and focus than you ever imagined.
But for Daria, the miracle-drug is starting to fail. The world is moving too fast, and she’s feeling more exhausted every day. She used to be top of her class and star of the track team. Now, she can’t even think of what to say around Jake, her crush and the sweetest guy she’s ever met.
She’d give anything to feel normal again.
Thankfully, the Caxton-Meyers Institute can help.
In fact, they say they can cure her.
As in, no more sleep.
Ever.
But Daria is about to stumble into a web of shadowy lies and mind-blowing truths...
A terrible darkness is stirring.
A devious villain is rising.
And a group of outcasts is waiting.
It’s time for Daria to discover her strength.
It’s time for Daria... to fall asleep.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2020
135 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Adler
6 books14 followersLucy Adler is a pen name for an author who loves crafting stories across various genres but still wants their audience to know just what to expect. Wherever you see 'Lucy Adler' you'll find a unique blend of dystopian societies and gripping fantasy, with relatable characters you'll want to revisit again and again.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 28, 2021
3.5 ★★★.*(YA/ Dystopian)
.
About the writing, I did like the style. It was quick. But at some points I just felt like the book was being dragged.
Romance? There wasn't much but it was cute.
The world building was good, but I guess it'll get better in the second book which means, yes! I'm not gonna just leave here, I am waiting for the sequel.
_____________________
Review
I really don't remember everything about this book besides the few basic things the story is all about so I'll have to reread this one in order to read the sequel, because:
1. I love all these beautiful covers.
2. I really, really liked the idea of this whole sleeping plot, haha.
3. It sure is dystopian but definitely very different from "hunger games" or "escape room" or even "divergent".
*Adding to my to-reread list*
.
About the writing, I did like the style. It was quick. But at some points I just felt like the book was being dragged.
Romance? There wasn't much but it was cute.
The world building was good, but I guess it'll get better in the second book which means, yes! I'm not gonna just leave here, I am waiting for the sequel.
_____________________
Review
I really don't remember everything about this book besides the few basic things the story is all about so I'll have to reread this one in order to read the sequel, because:
1. I love all these beautiful covers.
2. I really, really liked the idea of this whole sleeping plot, haha.
3. It sure is dystopian but definitely very different from "hunger games" or "escape room" or even "divergent".
*Adding to my to-reread list*
May 23, 2020
I love a good dystopian read, and this one really hit the sweet spot.
Sleeper, the first book of a new series, offers a new, fresh and exciting world vision - not so far in the future.
This book focuses on painting this fantasy world and our main character Daria (Dashy, Dasher,..) learns the truth in a very gradual pace - with all good reasons. This is also how you as a reader get to know more, you are learning the reality together with her.
Even though this book is set on immersing you in the 'Progress' world, there is enough action, some love notions and even some fearful moments. - Might lose some sleep over this one (pun intended).
This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story about a not so bright future, which hasn't been told before.
The last sentence of the book (without spoiling it) is so beautiful and gripping - that I can definitely say that I am eager for more. I hope the next installment will be available soon!
Sleeper, the first book of a new series, offers a new, fresh and exciting world vision - not so far in the future.
This book focuses on painting this fantasy world and our main character Daria (Dashy, Dasher,..) learns the truth in a very gradual pace - with all good reasons. This is also how you as a reader get to know more, you are learning the reality together with her.
Even though this book is set on immersing you in the 'Progress' world, there is enough action, some love notions and even some fearful moments. - Might lose some sleep over this one (pun intended).
This book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story about a not so bright future, which hasn't been told before.
The last sentence of the book (without spoiling it) is so beautiful and gripping - that I can definitely say that I am eager for more. I hope the next installment will be available soon!
May 9, 2020
At first glance „Sleeper“ (Book 1 in “The Waking Sleep” Series) is a just a new addition to the dystopian YA meet academy shelf but, as the old adagio goes, not every first impression is true, and “Sleeper” quickly turns out to be an original new take to the genre.
Sixteen-year old Daria Grayson also known as Dashy is in a lot trouble, and no… the nickname is just the smallest of her problems. In Daria’s lifetime, over sixty-five years into the future, humanity has resolved the crucial problem holding progress back, the need for sleep. The invention of Sendrax allows everyone to be productive practically 24/7 with just 45 minutes sleep time. Humans are able to focus into tasks and be productive at a level never seen before. Works to perfection…. except for Dashy, who can barely keep awake even when she manages to get sixty minutes at night. No matter how much she takes, double, even triple doses of Sentrax have not effect whatsoever. Oversleeping the day away surely does not do in such a society, thus her parents sent her away to the Caxton-Meyers Institute who specializes in treating persons suffering of “sleep disorders”. Frankly it couldn’t have happened at a worse time, Jake her best friend (an serious crush for two years) just broke up with his girlfriend, and a girl can dream….
Even if Dashy obviously doesn’t want to be committed, the first impression on the Institute are pleasantly surprising…hey! they even have chocolate…. Remember what I just said about first appearances 😉
The plot develops, with unexpected plots and twist, into a story that goes beyond the normal YA dystopian scope, revealing some of our modern behaviour and the need to always be productive, present, “on flick”, and questioning the real value of seemingly perfect societies and what really makes us human.
It is a well written book, fast-paced without feeling rushed, first and foremost an entertaining tale with a very likeable main character, a very interesting start to a new dystopian YA series.
Sixteen-year old Daria Grayson also known as Dashy is in a lot trouble, and no… the nickname is just the smallest of her problems. In Daria’s lifetime, over sixty-five years into the future, humanity has resolved the crucial problem holding progress back, the need for sleep. The invention of Sendrax allows everyone to be productive practically 24/7 with just 45 minutes sleep time. Humans are able to focus into tasks and be productive at a level never seen before. Works to perfection…. except for Dashy, who can barely keep awake even when she manages to get sixty minutes at night. No matter how much she takes, double, even triple doses of Sentrax have not effect whatsoever. Oversleeping the day away surely does not do in such a society, thus her parents sent her away to the Caxton-Meyers Institute who specializes in treating persons suffering of “sleep disorders”. Frankly it couldn’t have happened at a worse time, Jake her best friend (an serious crush for two years) just broke up with his girlfriend, and a girl can dream….
Even if Dashy obviously doesn’t want to be committed, the first impression on the Institute are pleasantly surprising…hey! they even have chocolate…. Remember what I just said about first appearances 😉
The plot develops, with unexpected plots and twist, into a story that goes beyond the normal YA dystopian scope, revealing some of our modern behaviour and the need to always be productive, present, “on flick”, and questioning the real value of seemingly perfect societies and what really makes us human.
It is a well written book, fast-paced without feeling rushed, first and foremost an entertaining tale with a very likeable main character, a very interesting start to a new dystopian YA series.
July 7, 2020
Is it progress if the imagination that makes us ourselves ends? A deep gripping and intriguing story with the adventures fo Daria and friends as they find the meaning behind sleep. Is it good? is it bad? You will find out in this book. All I can say now is Get This Book Now!!! I loved it!!!!!!!!
May 15, 2020
Engaging thriller, a la hunger games
Sleeper was a great read. I’m not a huge fan of YA dystopian lit generally, but I quite enjoyed this one. It reminds me of hunger games a bit; a world I don’t recognize (and hope I never do) organized by the powerful, and driven towards “progress” by forces both moral and practical. Daria longs to succeed and make her parents proud, but she seems to be losing ground instead. Can she be fixed for good, or does her “problem” have a higher purpose?
Sleeper was a great read. I’m not a huge fan of YA dystopian lit generally, but I quite enjoyed this one. It reminds me of hunger games a bit; a world I don’t recognize (and hope I never do) organized by the powerful, and driven towards “progress” by forces both moral and practical. Daria longs to succeed and make her parents proud, but she seems to be losing ground instead. Can she be fixed for good, or does her “problem” have a higher purpose?
October 13, 2020
I was firstly attracted to this book by the cover. I mean, seriously, it is gorgeous. And the premise seemed interesting enough too, so I decided to give it a try.
The story follows Daria, a 16 year old teenager who lives in a future where sleep has been eradicated in order to make the people more efficient, and 45 minutes of sleep is all they need to get through the night, thanks to the drug known as Sendrax.
But Daria finds herself drifting off to sleep when she shouldn't, and she just can't control it. She only wants to be normal again so she can get the attention of the guy she likes, Jake.
So when her parents send her to Caxton-Meyers Institute to "fix" her sleeping problem, the last thing she wants is having to spend more time than necessary there. She just wants to go back to how things were before.
Soon she discovers that not everything is what it seems, and that there might be more to her being in the facility.
I was really curious about the argument of the book, because it was nothing like I had ever read before. It started off well, the chapters were short and to the point, and the story seemed to flow fast. I started enjoying Daria's attitude, because it was really refreshing, but then I got tired of it, as she just kept analyizing every single situation and making "sarcastic" remarks.
The plot felt a little messy for me, there were parts in which I outright had to guess what was going on, because there was no explanation or I couldn't understand it. There is a point in the book in which the characters are discussing a plan to break into the Caxton-Meyers facility, and everyone is like: "oh, yeah, super clear. Got the plan perfectly". I was reading that and I could not understand what was going on, and it was really frustrating, because I could tell it was an important part to the story, so... Yeah. A further explanation would have been nice.
As for the romance in this book... All over the place. A mess, really. There was zero attraction between Daria and Jake, and their scenes together were just... Meh. And then there's the fact of Jake Two, which I found ridiculous that he was called as Daria's crush. I know, yes, it was on purpose, but still, I feel like the author could have come up with something more original.
The book was very light to read and easy, almost too easy, I'd say. The dialogue was a bit too casual where it sometimes shouldn't, and it felt awkward at times. Overall, it was fine. I'm still debating whether I should read the next part or not, because I'm not too sure if I really find the story that interesting.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of the book.
The story follows Daria, a 16 year old teenager who lives in a future where sleep has been eradicated in order to make the people more efficient, and 45 minutes of sleep is all they need to get through the night, thanks to the drug known as Sendrax.
But Daria finds herself drifting off to sleep when she shouldn't, and she just can't control it. She only wants to be normal again so she can get the attention of the guy she likes, Jake.
So when her parents send her to Caxton-Meyers Institute to "fix" her sleeping problem, the last thing she wants is having to spend more time than necessary there. She just wants to go back to how things were before.
Soon she discovers that not everything is what it seems, and that there might be more to her being in the facility.
I was really curious about the argument of the book, because it was nothing like I had ever read before. It started off well, the chapters were short and to the point, and the story seemed to flow fast. I started enjoying Daria's attitude, because it was really refreshing, but then I got tired of it, as she just kept analyizing every single situation and making "sarcastic" remarks.
The plot felt a little messy for me, there were parts in which I outright had to guess what was going on, because there was no explanation or I couldn't understand it. There is a point in the book in which the characters are discussing a plan to break into the Caxton-Meyers facility, and everyone is like: "oh, yeah, super clear. Got the plan perfectly". I was reading that and I could not understand what was going on, and it was really frustrating, because I could tell it was an important part to the story, so... Yeah. A further explanation would have been nice.
As for the romance in this book... All over the place. A mess, really. There was zero attraction between Daria and Jake, and their scenes together were just... Meh. And then there's the fact of Jake Two, which I found ridiculous that he was called as Daria's crush. I know, yes, it was on purpose, but still, I feel like the author could have come up with something more original.
The book was very light to read and easy, almost too easy, I'd say. The dialogue was a bit too casual where it sometimes shouldn't, and it felt awkward at times. Overall, it was fine. I'm still debating whether I should read the next part or not, because I'm not too sure if I really find the story that interesting.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of the book.
July 21, 2020
I loved YA dystopian fiction, and loved this well-written book. The world building is very good and it's an interesting concept as people today are getting less and less sleep so it seems plausible that in the future 45 minutes is all that's necessary. In this world, the invention of Sendrax allows everyone to be productive practically 24/7 with just 45 minutes sleep time. It's shameful to sleep more, or to feel tired...productivity is what counts and now humans are able to focus on tasks and be productive at a level never seen before. Sixteen-year old Daria Grayson is in a lot trouble, she can barely keep awake even when she manages to get sixty minutes at night. No matter how if she takes a double or even triple doses of Sentrax, she's tired. Daria longs to succeed and make her parents proud, but she seems to be fighting a losing battle...until they send her to an institute for persons suffering from sleep disorders. She actually enjoys her time there (and experiences chocolate and other real food!) and is happy to find that with a special dose, she can be like everybody else! But is that a good thing? And what about the 'Sleepers', people who actually sleep for several hours...who are they? What do the government leaders really want? The book takes you through several plot twists and turns, and I am wanting to read more after finishing the book. Looking forward to Book 2...
October 16, 2022
When I started reading this, I LOVED IT.
It felt like a new and original storyline… which it is. But then the author tried to fit more and more into it and it was just too much. Jumping from person to person, memory to memory, just far too much and took away from the story so much.
It felt like a new and original storyline… which it is. But then the author tried to fit more and more into it and it was just too much. Jumping from person to person, memory to memory, just far too much and took away from the story so much.
July 28, 2022
Good idea, but confusing
This book has an interesting concept, but it’s confusing.
The main character’s family members don’t have names until the middle of the book. The story skips around a lot. It gives the impression that the passage of time is something that is closely monitored and that every single minute of the day is supposed to be filled with something, but the book only shows little segments of the day (such as four minutes here, fifteen minutes there). What does the main character do during the rest of the day? The book only shows what happens during one or two classes a day. Does she have more classes? A job?
Towards the middle, the book occasionally went back in time. It was annoying because I didn’t really know what was going on or what the point of the time change was. It just made it more confusing.
In the beginning of the book, the main character was having problems with the people around her because she kept getting tired. There was one guy she liked, and he was dating someone, but then he broke up with that person and immediately started dating the main character. It was probably supposed to be romantic or something, but it felt like she wasn’t his first choice, just the backup. Later on in the story it was revealed that he was dating that other girl not because he liked her but so he could fit in…? And that he never really liked her, but that he always liked the main character the most. Again, I think this was supposed to be romantic, but it just felt wrong.
The big bad guy in the book, the Doctor, is trying to make a new human. He injected himself with a purple serum, and it made his eyes glow, one red and the other blue. And then he was able to force someone into a comatose state…? What was he doing? How is he the “new human” he was trying to create? Was he trying to create a hive mind type thing?
The thing the sleepers were trying to fight against was called the Dark. What is the Dark? At the beginning of the book, it was implied that the Dark was sleep, and the Dark is bad so sleep is bad too. But then when the main character joins the sleepers, they said that the Dark was opposite of what she believes. The Dark was something that feasted on the pain and suffering of others (huh?) and that everyone in the city was under the influence of the Dark even though they were wide awake. The sleepers were trying to fight against the Dark. But…what is it? The sleepers kept telling the main character that they would explain what it was, but they never did.
This book would have been better without the random jumps in time, and if the thing that the sleepers were fighting against was clearer.
This book has an interesting concept, but it’s confusing.
The main character’s family members don’t have names until the middle of the book. The story skips around a lot. It gives the impression that the passage of time is something that is closely monitored and that every single minute of the day is supposed to be filled with something, but the book only shows little segments of the day (such as four minutes here, fifteen minutes there). What does the main character do during the rest of the day? The book only shows what happens during one or two classes a day. Does she have more classes? A job?
Towards the middle, the book occasionally went back in time. It was annoying because I didn’t really know what was going on or what the point of the time change was. It just made it more confusing.
In the beginning of the book, the main character was having problems with the people around her because she kept getting tired. There was one guy she liked, and he was dating someone, but then he broke up with that person and immediately started dating the main character. It was probably supposed to be romantic or something, but it felt like she wasn’t his first choice, just the backup. Later on in the story it was revealed that he was dating that other girl not because he liked her but so he could fit in…? And that he never really liked her, but that he always liked the main character the most. Again, I think this was supposed to be romantic, but it just felt wrong.
The big bad guy in the book, the Doctor, is trying to make a new human. He injected himself with a purple serum, and it made his eyes glow, one red and the other blue. And then he was able to force someone into a comatose state…? What was he doing? How is he the “new human” he was trying to create? Was he trying to create a hive mind type thing?
The thing the sleepers were trying to fight against was called the Dark. What is the Dark? At the beginning of the book, it was implied that the Dark was sleep, and the Dark is bad so sleep is bad too. But then when the main character joins the sleepers, they said that the Dark was opposite of what she believes. The Dark was something that feasted on the pain and suffering of others (huh?) and that everyone in the city was under the influence of the Dark even though they were wide awake. The sleepers were trying to fight against the Dark. But…what is it? The sleepers kept telling the main character that they would explain what it was, but they never did.
This book would have been better without the random jumps in time, and if the thing that the sleepers were fighting against was clearer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2020
Having recently discovered a love of reading dystopian novels, and having joined a FaceBook page wherein this book was recommended, I decided to give this one a go. I was not disappointed.
Our main character, Daria, has become aware that something is wrong. Still in high school and attending classes, Daria has begun nodding off - not a lot, mind, just enough to be noticeable. Everyone else in the great city of Progress seems to be fine on their 45 minutes of sleep per night, but Daria's grades and track performance have started to suffer. Her parents ship her off to a facility that promises to help her realize her true productive-member-of-society potential and all seems to be going swimmingly.
But like many pools of still water where swimming seems to be a great idea, sneaky undercurrents can pull you down until you are in over your head.
The Institute that was so helpful may not be so helpful after all. In one evening Daria's world is turned upside down; betrayed by one she trusted, found by a friend, she learns that "normal" really isn't. Oh, and there's magic, too!
I have to say, I enjoyed reading Sleeper. Lucy Adler has put a very interesting spin on the idea and the use of magic; one that until now I, at least, had never heard of. The descriptions made things clear in my mind's eye as I was reading, and I felt like I was immersed in this world as I was reading. The characters are relatable. Okay - I don't think I can relate to Daria's parents really, but I can believe that they exist in this world in which they were created and I can understand their motivations.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series, Dream , which I picked up in my local Amazon Fire shop almost the minute after I finished Sleeper.
Time well spent.
Our main character, Daria, has become aware that something is wrong. Still in high school and attending classes, Daria has begun nodding off - not a lot, mind, just enough to be noticeable. Everyone else in the great city of Progress seems to be fine on their 45 minutes of sleep per night, but Daria's grades and track performance have started to suffer. Her parents ship her off to a facility that promises to help her realize her true productive-member-of-society potential and all seems to be going swimmingly.
But like many pools of still water where swimming seems to be a great idea, sneaky undercurrents can pull you down until you are in over your head.
The Institute that was so helpful may not be so helpful after all. In one evening Daria's world is turned upside down; betrayed by one she trusted, found by a friend, she learns that "normal" really isn't. Oh, and there's magic, too!
I have to say, I enjoyed reading Sleeper. Lucy Adler has put a very interesting spin on the idea and the use of magic; one that until now I, at least, had never heard of. The descriptions made things clear in my mind's eye as I was reading, and I felt like I was immersed in this world as I was reading. The characters are relatable. Okay - I don't think I can relate to Daria's parents really, but I can believe that they exist in this world in which they were created and I can understand their motivations.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series, Dream , which I picked up in my local Amazon Fire shop almost the minute after I finished Sleeper.
Time well spent.
June 26, 2020
‘ Sleeper' (the first book in 'The Waking Sleep' series) follows a familiar format: a dystopian future with a minority who don't fit (or want to fit) the system.
As a YA novel, this really hits the spot. The protagonist is a teenager with all the usual teenage issues, on top of the fantasy elements. She wants to fit in more than anything; she's making her first forays into romantic relationship; she loves being praised and hates criticism; the bullying from her classmates gets in her head.
I love the way the plot keeps throwing up complications. Just as you think you have a handle on the good/bad, safe/unsafe elements, something happens to twist it all up. It makes the storyline very engaging and I felt a need to keep reading in the hope that it would all untwist itself again.
What's especially intriguing is that the 'battle between good and evil', so common to this genre, is far from straightforward. I suppose it could be likened to the issues in 'The Maze Runner' and the idea of "should a few people suffer for the good of the society as a whole?" However, in 'Sleeper', I found myself questioning again and again what the goal of this society actually was or even should be.
The romantic elements of the book are not overplayed or gratuitous. They sit nicely in the storyline and there's nothing here that you wouldn't be happy reading aloud to your grandmother!
I read 'Sleeper' in a single sitting (during coronavirus lockdown with nothing else to do but cleaning - ugh!) and I'm now eagerly anticipating the next book in 'The Waking Sleep' series, as 'Sleeper' really did leave things with a lot of questions.
I highly recommend 'Sleeper'. I managed to get an ARC copy, but this is probably one I would get a paperback of, if it were possible, and give it a space on my bookshelf.
As a YA novel, this really hits the spot. The protagonist is a teenager with all the usual teenage issues, on top of the fantasy elements. She wants to fit in more than anything; she's making her first forays into romantic relationship; she loves being praised and hates criticism; the bullying from her classmates gets in her head.
I love the way the plot keeps throwing up complications. Just as you think you have a handle on the good/bad, safe/unsafe elements, something happens to twist it all up. It makes the storyline very engaging and I felt a need to keep reading in the hope that it would all untwist itself again.
What's especially intriguing is that the 'battle between good and evil', so common to this genre, is far from straightforward. I suppose it could be likened to the issues in 'The Maze Runner' and the idea of "should a few people suffer for the good of the society as a whole?" However, in 'Sleeper', I found myself questioning again and again what the goal of this society actually was or even should be.
The romantic elements of the book are not overplayed or gratuitous. They sit nicely in the storyline and there's nothing here that you wouldn't be happy reading aloud to your grandmother!
I read 'Sleeper' in a single sitting (during coronavirus lockdown with nothing else to do but cleaning - ugh!) and I'm now eagerly anticipating the next book in 'The Waking Sleep' series, as 'Sleeper' really did leave things with a lot of questions.
I highly recommend 'Sleeper'. I managed to get an ARC copy, but this is probably one I would get a paperback of, if it were possible, and give it a space on my bookshelf.
February 20, 2021
TL;DR: I have no reservation recommending this book for people who like to read young adult/dystopian fiction with a bit of magic and a touch of romance, this original concept is well written.
Full Review: This is a YA book from a dystopian future and part 1 of a series, so not all plot lines are resolved, but there is a definite conclusion for this part of the story.
Personally, I do not like the idea of a society wanting to be more and more productive to the point where they basically eliminate sleep. It sounds awful. Reading about it is fun though: how they fill their days, expectations of different people, and what happens when someone, like our protagonist Dashy stops fitting in so well. She’s afraid, as would anyone be when we seem like the only one who doesn’t fit in, but perhaps it’s not so bad. The people at the rehabilitation institute seem nice and helpful. She’s even getting better.
The Writer skilfully makes us doubt this situation, even when things seem to be going well. Then, we get to see the complete other side of the story as we try to work out what is really going on in this World. Dashy is a relatable character as we have all felt we don’t quite fit in, or don’t understand what is going on, at some point in our lives. In this confusing world where she is told she is wrong, she has to work out whom to trust.
There were a couple of time jumps in the story, which confused me a bit until I saw the date at the beginning of each chapter. I got used to this, but I could have used a “the next day”, “three hours later” or “two years ago” type thing to help me along so I didn’t have to flick (not so easy on my eReader) back to see the date on the previous chapter to compare.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and loved the original concept in this World 😊
Full Review: This is a YA book from a dystopian future and part 1 of a series, so not all plot lines are resolved, but there is a definite conclusion for this part of the story.
Personally, I do not like the idea of a society wanting to be more and more productive to the point where they basically eliminate sleep. It sounds awful. Reading about it is fun though: how they fill their days, expectations of different people, and what happens when someone, like our protagonist Dashy stops fitting in so well. She’s afraid, as would anyone be when we seem like the only one who doesn’t fit in, but perhaps it’s not so bad. The people at the rehabilitation institute seem nice and helpful. She’s even getting better.
The Writer skilfully makes us doubt this situation, even when things seem to be going well. Then, we get to see the complete other side of the story as we try to work out what is really going on in this World. Dashy is a relatable character as we have all felt we don’t quite fit in, or don’t understand what is going on, at some point in our lives. In this confusing world where she is told she is wrong, she has to work out whom to trust.
There were a couple of time jumps in the story, which confused me a bit until I saw the date at the beginning of each chapter. I got used to this, but I could have used a “the next day”, “three hours later” or “two years ago” type thing to help me along so I didn’t have to flick (not so easy on my eReader) back to see the date on the previous chapter to compare.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and loved the original concept in this World 😊
October 16, 2020
In addition to a fantastically eye-catching cover, this books gives a new meaning to “catching your zzzzz’s”.
Daria “Dasha” Grayson is tired. Tired of being bullied by peers and teachers. Tired of trying to be the best for her overbearing father. And tired physically even though she sleeps the required 45 minutes each day and takes more than the recommended daily dose of government approved pills. After all, sleep is the enemy.
I commend Daria on her perseverance in her struggle to do better even though everyone is so unsupportive except for her best friend, Brix, and friend and long-time crush, Jake. And even when she discovers she is not who she thinks she is, her determination to overcome is inspiring to witness considering she has to learn her “new gift” much faster than everyone else because lives are at stake.
I always enjoy a dynamic character who rises from maltreatment and becomes a champion for her friends and for an oppressed society. Daria is this character and along with her loyal friends, Brix and Jake, and her new friends, Corey, Max, Aury and Julia, it is a thrilling uphill battle full of danger and menace.
Also, I found a kinship with Daria. I need my 8 hours of sleep and my four food groups to function properly as well. 🙂
Even though there was some confusion about present day versus past in the novel, this is a slow-building and exciting YA fantasy with impassioned characters and thrilling action. A promising start to a new fantasy series. If you like YA fantasy with action and adventure, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Adler for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Daria “Dasha” Grayson is tired. Tired of being bullied by peers and teachers. Tired of trying to be the best for her overbearing father. And tired physically even though she sleeps the required 45 minutes each day and takes more than the recommended daily dose of government approved pills. After all, sleep is the enemy.
I commend Daria on her perseverance in her struggle to do better even though everyone is so unsupportive except for her best friend, Brix, and friend and long-time crush, Jake. And even when she discovers she is not who she thinks she is, her determination to overcome is inspiring to witness considering she has to learn her “new gift” much faster than everyone else because lives are at stake.
I always enjoy a dynamic character who rises from maltreatment and becomes a champion for her friends and for an oppressed society. Daria is this character and along with her loyal friends, Brix and Jake, and her new friends, Corey, Max, Aury and Julia, it is a thrilling uphill battle full of danger and menace.
Also, I found a kinship with Daria. I need my 8 hours of sleep and my four food groups to function properly as well. 🙂
Even though there was some confusion about present day versus past in the novel, this is a slow-building and exciting YA fantasy with impassioned characters and thrilling action. A promising start to a new fantasy series. If you like YA fantasy with action and adventure, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Adler for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
July 12, 2020
Not a read for me
I did not enjoy “Sleeper”, it has the bones of a really good dystopian tale, but it’s choppy and rather convoluted when it should be straight forward, leaving you to read between the lines to know what is going on. Is it the government that is controlling everyone’s life or a corporation? Is it only in this one city or is it the whole world? Why does no one ever leave the town? How is everyone happy sleeping only 45min a day? There is not that much work or school in the world. They are at school from 5am to 5pm with 15 min classes? They don’t have enough subjects for that. “Sleeper” is too confusing to be worth the read and I read it twice just in case. Maybe the second book with be better.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
I did not enjoy “Sleeper”, it has the bones of a really good dystopian tale, but it’s choppy and rather convoluted when it should be straight forward, leaving you to read between the lines to know what is going on. Is it the government that is controlling everyone’s life or a corporation? Is it only in this one city or is it the whole world? Why does no one ever leave the town? How is everyone happy sleeping only 45min a day? There is not that much work or school in the world. They are at school from 5am to 5pm with 15 min classes? They don’t have enough subjects for that. “Sleeper” is too confusing to be worth the read and I read it twice just in case. Maybe the second book with be better.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
May 2, 2022
What a Start to a Series!
I am voluntarily leaving this review. This is a great start to a series. It will have you on the edge of your seat the whole time! The suspense is off the charts!
Daria is in a world where you only need to sleep 45 minutes a day, with the help of a little white pill. When things start happening to her, she is sent away to get help to fix her. When she thinks things are starting to look up for her, she gets a big surprise and her world is turned upside down. Everything she thought she knew was wrong, and now she is left trying to navigate and figure out what her new life means and what her purpose is.
This book will literally have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Daria and her friends!
I am voluntarily leaving this review. This is a great start to a series. It will have you on the edge of your seat the whole time! The suspense is off the charts!
Daria is in a world where you only need to sleep 45 minutes a day, with the help of a little white pill. When things start happening to her, she is sent away to get help to fix her. When she thinks things are starting to look up for her, she gets a big surprise and her world is turned upside down. Everything she thought she knew was wrong, and now she is left trying to navigate and figure out what her new life means and what her purpose is.
This book will literally have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Daria and her friends!
December 20, 2020
“Sleeper” no spoiler review
I enjoyed this book-
The first thing that drew me was the books, incredible artwork!
A Beautiful piece of work. Back to the book :)
I am not usually the biggest fan of dystopian novels - but this book change my mind as it is also bordering on a fantasy- this book tackles all the key points about being a teenage girl -
The world Lucy Adler Has created is an extremely interesting one,- and being able to do so much more in the day thanks to the Sendrax drug is an exciting idea! (I can’t imagine only having 45 minutes of sleep😱) and it makes me shiver, thinking about a world with without much colour or freedom
- 4 out of 5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book-
The first thing that drew me was the books, incredible artwork!
A Beautiful piece of work. Back to the book :)
I am not usually the biggest fan of dystopian novels - but this book change my mind as it is also bordering on a fantasy- this book tackles all the key points about being a teenage girl -
The world Lucy Adler Has created is an extremely interesting one,- and being able to do so much more in the day thanks to the Sendrax drug is an exciting idea! (I can’t imagine only having 45 minutes of sleep😱) and it makes me shiver, thinking about a world with without much colour or freedom
- 4 out of 5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 2, 2020
Sleeper: A Dystopian Novel (The Waking Sleep Book 1) by Lucy Adler is a wonderful story that I have loved reading. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series written by a brand new author for me to read. I am so hooked on this series I can not wait to read the rest of this wonderful series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about dystopian in their stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Story Origin and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via Story Origin and am voluntarily leaving a review
July 12, 2020
This book has tons of potential. The overall story and world building are very interesting however the execution needs some work. It flips back and forth between current and past which could get confusing at times and there are alot of unanswered questions about the world as a whole - which to be fair may be answered in future books. I did love the main character and side characters which is what kept me reading. I did like it enough to give book 2 a try
September 29, 2020
The book has such a nice cover that definitely atracts attention.
The plot is based on an idea that it is possible to 'cure' the need to sleep. The book itself is a fusion of dystophy and fantasy.
The characters are likeable and the main character has a really strong development arc.
The story contains flashbacks that slow down the otherwise fast paced book.
I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a gripping and an original book.
The plot is based on an idea that it is possible to 'cure' the need to sleep. The book itself is a fusion of dystophy and fantasy.
The characters are likeable and the main character has a really strong development arc.
The story contains flashbacks that slow down the otherwise fast paced book.
I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a gripping and an original book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2023
Good Start
Getting into this new world was easy. It was well described, and the progressive life was laid out well. The story moved quickly with the introduction of the institute. But then it bogged down to a crawl. I began skipping paragraphs and I lost track with the "hindsight" chapters. I couldn't get into the dream sequences, their purpose or relevance.. The ending didn't complete the plot. So in the end, I was disappointed
Getting into this new world was easy. It was well described, and the progressive life was laid out well. The story moved quickly with the introduction of the institute. But then it bogged down to a crawl. I began skipping paragraphs and I lost track with the "hindsight" chapters. I couldn't get into the dream sequences, their purpose or relevance.. The ending didn't complete the plot. So in the end, I was disappointed
May 10, 2022
Sleeping Never Seemed So Trivial
This book was entertaining. Daria has to figure out is she wants to remain in the only version of the world she knows or venture further into the unknown. But the unknown may hold the key to why she's always struggled a bit more than everyone else.
If you're thinking about reading this book go ahead you won't be disappointed.
This book was entertaining. Daria has to figure out is she wants to remain in the only version of the world she knows or venture further into the unknown. But the unknown may hold the key to why she's always struggled a bit more than everyone else.
If you're thinking about reading this book go ahead you won't be disappointed.
November 9, 2022
Expected something different
I expected science fiction, and was disappointed to discover that it isn't , as there is "magic". Still not clear if it's of the "poof, it works!" type or if there is any logic to it.
I liked the premise though, and it was an entertaining and interesting read. Let's see where it goes in the next books.
I expected science fiction, and was disappointed to discover that it isn't , as there is "magic". Still not clear if it's of the "poof, it works!" type or if there is any logic to it.
I liked the premise though, and it was an entertaining and interesting read. Let's see where it goes in the next books.
November 9, 2022
Good Premise but…
It was fine, but I don’t really care enough about any of the characters to carry on with the series. It’s an interesting idea in the beginning but then moves from dystopia to fantasy and lost my attention.
Note to author - I have many friends from London, not one of them talks in rhyming slang on a regular basis (sorry), it comes across as fake.
It was fine, but I don’t really care enough about any of the characters to carry on with the series. It’s an interesting idea in the beginning but then moves from dystopia to fantasy and lost my attention.
Note to author - I have many friends from London, not one of them talks in rhyming slang on a regular basis (sorry), it comes across as fake.
December 11, 2022
It's a great story!!!
I love where this story is going, and then to combine it with the paranormal is amazing.
The characters are well built and I love the depth that Ms Adler gives them. Jake and Dash are the perfect couple and Bros couldn't be a better BFF.
Not sure what happens next but I'm on my way to find out!!
I love where this story is going, and then to combine it with the paranormal is amazing.
The characters are well built and I love the depth that Ms Adler gives them. Jake and Dash are the perfect couple and Bros couldn't be a better BFF.
Not sure what happens next but I'm on my way to find out!!
April 15, 2025
This was a cool story.
I enjoy the premise of a superior society (progress) that has a dark underbelly.
Dr Reston is quite the character.
Daria (aka Dasha) is a good leading lady. She has typical teen angst but not just for boy trouble.
I enjoyed the abilities of the sleepers and look forward to,learning more.
Adler has a good writing style, and I will recommend this to my teen niece.
I enjoy the premise of a superior society (progress) that has a dark underbelly.
Dr Reston is quite the character.
Daria (aka Dasha) is a good leading lady. She has typical teen angst but not just for boy trouble.
I enjoyed the abilities of the sleepers and look forward to,learning more.
Adler has a good writing style, and I will recommend this to my teen niece.
October 20, 2020
This is a good start to the series and it was certainly captivating, however the main character just accepting everything and not showing any strong emotions was the only thing I found off putting. Will continue the series and see how it goes.
September 14, 2023
Progress
Any idle time leads to evil! Sleep is an unnecessary evil! At least this is what the powers that be tell the citizens of Progress. Chemically changed to require only forty five minutes. Sleeping longer than that could result in being labeled a sleeper...
Any idle time leads to evil! Sleep is an unnecessary evil! At least this is what the powers that be tell the citizens of Progress. Chemically changed to require only forty five minutes. Sleeping longer than that could result in being labeled a sleeper...
December 25, 2021
I liked the beginning and middle. The ending - last 70 ish pages just dragged and seemed to get messy.
April 11, 2022
the concept was good but I wasn't a fan of the writing style or the pace
July 28, 2022
A very good read.
I preview my daughters reading material occasionally. I’m glad I decided to read this one. It was very well written, yet leaves a lot of questions unanswered.
I preview my daughters reading material occasionally. I’m glad I decided to read this one. It was very well written, yet leaves a lot of questions unanswered.
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