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He Dreams Magic
Ren has always wanted to leave, to escape his quiet village life. He wakes up from gold-tinged dreams with his heart pounding and a yearning for something he can’t name, can’t hold. He longs to experience something magical just once in his life.
Nico’s monsters don’t lurk under the bed. They walk in daylight. They haunt him every day of his life. He’s possibly the strongest magician of his time, yet he’s trapped. All he wants is an out.
At a magical carnival in the middle of a forest, Ren and Nico collide. They’ve been on this collision course their entire lives, always hurtling toward each other. For both men, escape is now. They have no choice but to flee together. Monsters and betrayal hunt them across strange lands. They find themselves on a journey to save each other—and possibly the world. All they have is one another, Nico’s magic, and a lifetime of half-remembered dreams. But finding each other, finally having someone to rely on, might be the strongest magic of all.
Warning: Mention of off-page rape and depictions of graphic violence.
Word count: 88,100.
Nico’s monsters don’t lurk under the bed. They walk in daylight. They haunt him every day of his life. He’s possibly the strongest magician of his time, yet he’s trapped. All he wants is an out.
At a magical carnival in the middle of a forest, Ren and Nico collide. They’ve been on this collision course their entire lives, always hurtling toward each other. For both men, escape is now. They have no choice but to flee together. Monsters and betrayal hunt them across strange lands. They find themselves on a journey to save each other—and possibly the world. All they have is one another, Nico’s magic, and a lifetime of half-remembered dreams. But finding each other, finally having someone to rely on, might be the strongest magic of all.
Warning: Mention of off-page rape and depictions of graphic violence.
Word count: 88,100.
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First published October 28, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 15, 2019
This fun, fast-paced, magical fantasy story "mostly" worked for me.
Ren was an outgoing, friendly guy from a local village, living an okay life, but he longed for excitement. To be out in the world, experiencing more than his current life had to offer.
[Ren]
So in spite of his little town's decree to avoid all forms of magic, Ren couldn't help but attend the magical carnival across the lake, which was where he met Nico.
But the wondrous carnival turned out to be all smoke and mirrors, nothing at all what it appeared to be on the surface. Full of unspeakable dangers, and an inescapable prison for Nico.
[Nico]
I loved Nico right from the start, but after being held captive and abused by a horde of monsters for over a decade, let's just say that he wasn't a shiny, happy soul. Who could be after all of that?
Ren didn't realize any of what was happening for a lot of the story, so I enjoyed having Nico's history unfold as they went along, with Ren's subtle flirting and Nico's often-snarky rebuffs.
The story line was great, and the world building was pretty good; however, to say this story was "descriptive" would be a massive understatement. Like saying water is a little wet. Sooooooo so descriptive.
I'm probably exaggerating a bit, but it *felt* like there were at least 20 pages describing the texture of grass alone. It's GRASS. I get it. But nope, let's continue describing page after page. Of grass.
So yeah, I think the story could've done with a lot less description, yet still had the same impact, without making me want to skim for actual dialogue.
The action was pretty constant, as the pair fled from the monsters, only to be found again and again, so the pacing was pretty spot on -- aside from being so wordy with descriptions of every tiny thing in the book.
The carnival at the beginning felt exciting, but my favorite part of the story was toward the end, when they visited Vellen
There, we quickly discovered that Davvon, Martin & the Magicians were all a bunch of BETRAYING ASSHOLES, so I don't feel even a little guilty in saying that I was thrilled to see them get their comeuppance. They more than deserved everything that they got.
I do have to admit that after fleeing the castle in Vellen, The Big Showdown between Nico and the massive crowd of monsters felt a bit anti-climactic and seemed too easily overcome for such a world-conquering threat.
I was also slightly disappointed that the "What exactly are you?" question was never fully answered in relation to the abilities that Ren showed. It seemed like Ren's abilities were going to make an actual *difference* when fighting the monsters
When all was said and done, Nico's story was heartbreaking, but the angst was fairly manageable. As for steam, this was your typical fantasy tale, where the steamy bits were, for the most part, left out entirely.
I did enjoy the story quite a bit, but after the issues mentioned above, I'd rate it at around 3.5 stars.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
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November 23, 2019
Sublime, magical, and mysterious! This fantasy novel by a new-to-me author was a win at 4 stars!!
What I liked: The descriptive and specific language immersed me in this magical world where humans, magicians, and monsters exist side by side. It was so easy to picture myself rowing across a lake of fire or in the middle of an arboreal carnaval.
I also liked the characters, Ren and Nico, who appeared to be polar opposites and who wanted vastly different things. Ren was an open book, making his attraction to magic and Nico abundantly clear. Nico, however, was puzzling with ever changing moods and wants. Why Nico is both flirty and cagey makes sense as the story progresses, but for both Ren and the reader Nico is a magnet.
I also liked the adventure aspect of the story once we moved away from the carnaval scene. It’s here where we learn more about Nico and begin to empathize with him. It is also during this trek that we begin to realize that there might be more to Ren than his size.
What I didn’t like: the monsters, while decidedly wicked and creepy reminded me too much of mo Ayers in a very popular wizard and witches series. I had a hard time not thinking of the dark cloaked creatures as anything but dementors.
I also had difficulty warming up to Nico because of his constant abrasive behavior towards Ren. Had I been Ren, I might have been done with Nico early on. Somehow, Ren’s attraction to Nico and his desire for adventure overcame the wounds inflicted by his barbed words.
Overall I very much enjoyed this book and need the next one NOW! This one does end with a big finale but it only sets us up for what comes next as Ren and Nico carry on in their quest to save humanity from the monsters.
My rec? If you love fantasy and adventure, this is your ticket!!
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review **
What I liked: The descriptive and specific language immersed me in this magical world where humans, magicians, and monsters exist side by side. It was so easy to picture myself rowing across a lake of fire or in the middle of an arboreal carnaval.
I also liked the characters, Ren and Nico, who appeared to be polar opposites and who wanted vastly different things. Ren was an open book, making his attraction to magic and Nico abundantly clear. Nico, however, was puzzling with ever changing moods and wants. Why Nico is both flirty and cagey makes sense as the story progresses, but for both Ren and the reader Nico is a magnet.
I also liked the adventure aspect of the story once we moved away from the carnaval scene. It’s here where we learn more about Nico and begin to empathize with him. It is also during this trek that we begin to realize that there might be more to Ren than his size.
What I didn’t like: the monsters, while decidedly wicked and creepy reminded me too much of mo Ayers in a very popular wizard and witches series. I had a hard time not thinking of the dark cloaked creatures as anything but dementors.
I also had difficulty warming up to Nico because of his constant abrasive behavior towards Ren. Had I been Ren, I might have been done with Nico early on. Somehow, Ren’s attraction to Nico and his desire for adventure overcame the wounds inflicted by his barbed words.
Overall I very much enjoyed this book and need the next one NOW! This one does end with a big finale but it only sets us up for what comes next as Ren and Nico carry on in their quest to save humanity from the monsters.
My rec? If you love fantasy and adventure, this is your ticket!!
**ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review **
October 26, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, I'm not really sure what I read here. The characters, world building, tension, magic, and word choices all combined to create a floaty, dream-like story.
We begin with Ren as he rows his boat across a lake through magical fire to reach the magical carnival he's waited his whole life to visit. His village has warned him away from it, but Ren's eager to see the world and the magic. He doesn't expect to be literally knocked down by aero-acrobat Nico.
As Ren and Nico run away from the monsters that are behind the carnival, they embark on the slowest slow-burn romance that ever burned, and yes, fire is ever present in this story from the magical fire to Nico's hair and feisty personality.
Even though they were constantly fighting and running for their lives, I felt like I was waiting for something to happen the entire story - and when they *finally* kissed, I realized that was what I was waiting for.
This story wasn't what I expected, but I was more than willing to go along with the ride.
Wow, I'm not really sure what I read here. The characters, world building, tension, magic, and word choices all combined to create a floaty, dream-like story.
We begin with Ren as he rows his boat across a lake through magical fire to reach the magical carnival he's waited his whole life to visit. His village has warned him away from it, but Ren's eager to see the world and the magic. He doesn't expect to be literally knocked down by aero-acrobat Nico.
As Ren and Nico run away from the monsters that are behind the carnival, they embark on the slowest slow-burn romance that ever burned, and yes, fire is ever present in this story from the magical fire to Nico's hair and feisty personality.
Even though they were constantly fighting and running for their lives, I felt like I was waiting for something to happen the entire story - and when they *finally* kissed, I realized that was what I was waiting for.
This story wasn't what I expected, but I was more than willing to go along with the ride.
October 27, 2019
I adored this, when I put it down because I had no choice I just found myself wanting to dive right in again. It’s an addictive book, you won’t want to stop at all. It’s so wonderful, well written, great characterisation, such well done chemistry/romance, full of action, you’ll find yourself holding your breath at times, the tension is built perfectly and it’s just a fabulous read. Highly recommended to everyone, if you aren’t a fan of well written m/m romance, why not , jump in on this book and come see what an amazing world you are missing
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
January 25, 2020
A big thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an e-ARC copy of this book!
What was that ending! Is there going to be a second book because I need more Ren and Nico (Rico?)! Okay so the Book starts with Ren attending a carnival; there he meets the aero acrobat Nico who happens to be the most powerful magician. (At first sight Ren falls for Nico’s fiery hair and feisty personality, but Nico is not the type to be easily fooled by charms)
Nico hates being touched because when someone touches him he can read their thoughts (which he says are mostly about sex)
Fate is a cruel thing never telling you what it has planned for you until it’s too late.
Nico is running from his monsters. Ren is looking for magic and adventure.
Their paths collide (Nico literally falls on Ren) and they go on this journey together where in the end they discover that they’ve known each other since childhood (through each others dream; complicated I know!).
“He’d had these dreams so often, for so long. Being amid the gold felt like coming home.”
The romance is the slowest slow-burn in the history and the whole time I was crossing my fingers and waiting for them to kiss. And when it happened, I just screeched.
I fell in love with this book! It wasn’t what I was expecting at all! And I’m so glad that I had a chance to read it and to write this review and share my thoughts with you guys.
Trigger warnings: rape, violence, abuse, etc.
What was that ending! Is there going to be a second book because I need more Ren and Nico (Rico?)! Okay so the Book starts with Ren attending a carnival; there he meets the aero acrobat Nico who happens to be the most powerful magician. (At first sight Ren falls for Nico’s fiery hair and feisty personality, but Nico is not the type to be easily fooled by charms)
Nico hates being touched because when someone touches him he can read their thoughts (which he says are mostly about sex)
Fate is a cruel thing never telling you what it has planned for you until it’s too late.
Nico is running from his monsters. Ren is looking for magic and adventure.
Their paths collide (Nico literally falls on Ren) and they go on this journey together where in the end they discover that they’ve known each other since childhood (through each others dream; complicated I know!).
“He’d had these dreams so often, for so long. Being amid the gold felt like coming home.”
The romance is the slowest slow-burn in the history and the whole time I was crossing my fingers and waiting for them to kiss. And when it happened, I just screeched.
I fell in love with this book! It wasn’t what I was expecting at all! And I’m so glad that I had a chance to read it and to write this review and share my thoughts with you guys.
Trigger warnings: rape, violence, abuse, etc.
October 29, 2019
Emme C. Taylor has created a world full of magic, violence, fear and love and it’s all wrapped up together in beautiful writing!
This book was fantastic! I love when I find books that are completely original! Taylor has created a wonderful world in He Dreams Of Magic. The novel begins with Ren heading out to a carnival as he tries to seek out the magical joy in his dreams. He does find excitement in the way of a Magical flyer who collides with him on the carnival grounds. What begins as physical attraction is soon a dangerous situation that Ren wasn’t prepared for. Nico… the flyer is full of magic. He’s a rare individual… and he’s walled off.. almost unreachable. For some reason though, Ren is drawn to the man and persuades him to spend some time with him.
Soon… Ren becomes all too aware that there is more to Nico than what he appears. Nico’s magic is very powerful… and it makes him a target for a nasty set of creatures. The Wolk are terrifying! Most creatures in books don’t really bother me, but Taylor’s writing left me ready to hide under my bed! I mean, I don’t even want to entertain the idea of creatures that can live by sucking the life, magic, and soul out of humans and draining them to death. It’s a horrifying thought! Kudos to the author for making me keep one eye open while last night while I was trying to fall asleep.
The relationship between Ren and Nico is really well written. While there is an “instant attraction” on Ren’s part…Nico is resistant and hiding behind walls he has created for his own protection. The two men have some remarkable discussions even while Nico remains determined to keep his thoughts and feelings to himself. I can’t really explain how the author did this so well…but Nico and Ren stay true to each of their characters. even when the perspective switched to Nico’s in the book… I still felt as though I was discovering things about Nico at the same time as Ren did.
This is a wonderful story. I feel as though this story is more than just a “fantasy” novel. It is a GREAT fantasy novel but it’s also about home… and family… belonging and what happens if any of those things are taken away from someone.
Thank you Emme C. Taylor! I look forward to anything else you may write!!
This book was fantastic! I love when I find books that are completely original! Taylor has created a wonderful world in He Dreams Of Magic. The novel begins with Ren heading out to a carnival as he tries to seek out the magical joy in his dreams. He does find excitement in the way of a Magical flyer who collides with him on the carnival grounds. What begins as physical attraction is soon a dangerous situation that Ren wasn’t prepared for. Nico… the flyer is full of magic. He’s a rare individual… and he’s walled off.. almost unreachable. For some reason though, Ren is drawn to the man and persuades him to spend some time with him.
Soon… Ren becomes all too aware that there is more to Nico than what he appears. Nico’s magic is very powerful… and it makes him a target for a nasty set of creatures. The Wolk are terrifying! Most creatures in books don’t really bother me, but Taylor’s writing left me ready to hide under my bed! I mean, I don’t even want to entertain the idea of creatures that can live by sucking the life, magic, and soul out of humans and draining them to death. It’s a horrifying thought! Kudos to the author for making me keep one eye open while last night while I was trying to fall asleep.
The relationship between Ren and Nico is really well written. While there is an “instant attraction” on Ren’s part…Nico is resistant and hiding behind walls he has created for his own protection. The two men have some remarkable discussions even while Nico remains determined to keep his thoughts and feelings to himself. I can’t really explain how the author did this so well…but Nico and Ren stay true to each of their characters. even when the perspective switched to Nico’s in the book… I still felt as though I was discovering things about Nico at the same time as Ren did.
This is a wonderful story. I feel as though this story is more than just a “fantasy” novel. It is a GREAT fantasy novel but it’s also about home… and family… belonging and what happens if any of those things are taken away from someone.
Thank you Emme C. Taylor! I look forward to anything else you may write!!
November 1, 2019
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for my very first e-ARC book, I was so excited to receive it! I really wasn't sure what to expect going in, but let me start off by saying I absolutely LOVED it. It starts off slap bang in the middle of the action without any backstory (which I never usually like) and the prose had a very dream-like quality to it, which made me unsure too, but by the end of Chapter 1 I was hooked. It was unlike any other book of this genre that I've read, with a really unique story line. I will try to not give away any spoilers :)
So...He Dreams Magic is an adventure fantasy set in an alternate world, a world full of magic, magicians and monsters. It follows Ren and Nico, who are literally thrown together, as they try to escape the horrors of the Wolk (really nasty monsters in human form) and save the world and each other (in a nutshell!) The character development is fabulous - gotta love a slow burn romance (and this is as slow as they come) and the world building is great too - it left me wanting more though. I really hope that Emme has only just started to show us what this world holds.
Whilst not exactly a cliffhanger ending, there needs to be LOTS more to come. Please.
There are some triggers (captivity, abuse, graphic violence and off-page rape) so do take care, but it didn't detract from the story for me.
Highly recommended, especially if you are after something different.
#HeDreamsMagic #NetGalley
So...He Dreams Magic is an adventure fantasy set in an alternate world, a world full of magic, magicians and monsters. It follows Ren and Nico, who are literally thrown together, as they try to escape the horrors of the Wolk (really nasty monsters in human form) and save the world and each other (in a nutshell!) The character development is fabulous - gotta love a slow burn romance (and this is as slow as they come) and the world building is great too - it left me wanting more though. I really hope that Emme has only just started to show us what this world holds.
Whilst not exactly a cliffhanger ending, there needs to be LOTS more to come. Please.
There are some triggers (captivity, abuse, graphic violence and off-page rape) so do take care, but it didn't detract from the story for me.
Highly recommended, especially if you are after something different.
#HeDreamsMagic #NetGalley
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November 19, 2019A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
The lake is on fire. Ren knows what that means; when autumn comes the lake burns, opening up a portal to a world of magic and mystery. For those brave enough to fight their way through the flames, to set themselves alight with the last storm of summer and the first storm of autumn, there’s a carnival waiting for them on the other side with food, drink, and fun. For Ren, it’s an escape from a boring a life, a chance to feel the lick of magic against his skin, and maybe to find a new life for himself.
Nico is a magician who dances on air, who can turn himself into water, who can kill with a word, and whose smile promises a man a night of pleasure like nothing he’s ever known. For Ren, that smile and that promise are all he’s ever wanted, and he’ll do anything he can to keep Nico at his side, even if that means facing monsters, dark magic, and the end of the world.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
The lake is on fire. Ren knows what that means; when autumn comes the lake burns, opening up a portal to a world of magic and mystery. For those brave enough to fight their way through the flames, to set themselves alight with the last storm of summer and the first storm of autumn, there’s a carnival waiting for them on the other side with food, drink, and fun. For Ren, it’s an escape from a boring a life, a chance to feel the lick of magic against his skin, and maybe to find a new life for himself.
Nico is a magician who dances on air, who can turn himself into water, who can kill with a word, and whose smile promises a man a night of pleasure like nothing he’s ever known. For Ren, that smile and that promise are all he’s ever wanted, and he’ll do anything he can to keep Nico at his side, even if that means facing monsters, dark magic, and the end of the world.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
October 26, 2019
I loved this book! It was beautifully character driven, set in a magical world which I felt was described just enough to encompass the imagination. There was a real atmosphere to this story which truly captured me. I know I really love a book when I find myself thinking about it (being distracted by it) throughout my work day, and this one was on my mind almost constantly for the entire time I was reading it. I found myself thoroughly invested in the story and characters.
I’m going to miss Ren and Nico! I want (NEED) more! Their relationship was developed so beautifully and organically with such a satisfying slow burn. This book was a perfect read for me, I can’t wait to read more from this author (hurry up, hurry UP)!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
I’m going to miss Ren and Nico! I want (NEED) more! Their relationship was developed so beautifully and organically with such a satisfying slow burn. This book was a perfect read for me, I can’t wait to read more from this author (hurry up, hurry UP)!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
November 22, 2019
I’ve sat and thought on what to say on this review, and I’m having a hard time. First off, I have to say, pay attention to the warning in the blurb. It’s no joke. It is very graphic, very gory, almost sadistic. Well, I would say more than almost. It’s a dark story. It’s not a pretty picture. But there’s also an underlying theme of hope. Of maybe a new beginning. Of things being different. I liked the story for the most part. There are some slow moments. And there are times where, it just felt off to me. But then again, that’s just my opinion. Read for yourself and see what you think.
Nico’s life has been a living hell since he was fourteen. He was banished from his home for what he thinks is because he accidentally killed someone because of his magic. Even though, those same people had tried to kill him. Now he’s forced to see people murdered on a daily basis to try to break him by magical beings, monsters, that he was given to. Little does he know what is really going on behind the scenes. He’s been trying to escape for years, but they keep coming for him. And it usually ends bad. But somehow, even though he keeps trying to push Ren away, Ren has gotten under his skin and given him a kind of hope. Even though they are being chased still and trying to get away. It isn’t til he gets back to his old home that he finds out the true story of what has been going on all these years and how there’s more to Ren, then even Ren knows. But they may not make it out alive this time. This time may just be the ending they’ve been kind of waiting for.
It was hard to read the hell Nico has had to live through. It’s been unbelievable. Especially when he finds out the whole story. That was a slap in the face. A betrayal he doesn’t know if he can come back from. And while Ren is a breath of fresh air for him, he’s still terrified, because he can’t face one more person’s death. But Ren refuses to let him be alone and face all this crap alone. And that for Nico, is more than he’s ever had before. Which is even more scary. Both are waiting for the other shoe to drop. It’s a hard thing for him to trust that Ren is sincere. Even when he hears Ren’s thoughts. But Ren truly does want to help and get Nico out of the mess he’s in. But it’s going to take a lot to get through this. I truly feel for both of these guys. Nico has lived through absolute hell. Ren’s past was no picnic either. And now they are living in hell on the run. It doesn’t seem to end.
It’s one of those books that is like a thriller/horror movie, ya know? You don’t quite know what’s going to happen, even though a part of you kind of knows. You know it’s going to be bad, but when it creeps up on you it’s more than you expected. So, it’s good, but it’s dark. I don’t mind the dark. I like that kind of stuff. But for those that have a harder time with it, be careful. Form your own opinion. See what you think.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Nico’s life has been a living hell since he was fourteen. He was banished from his home for what he thinks is because he accidentally killed someone because of his magic. Even though, those same people had tried to kill him. Now he’s forced to see people murdered on a daily basis to try to break him by magical beings, monsters, that he was given to. Little does he know what is really going on behind the scenes. He’s been trying to escape for years, but they keep coming for him. And it usually ends bad. But somehow, even though he keeps trying to push Ren away, Ren has gotten under his skin and given him a kind of hope. Even though they are being chased still and trying to get away. It isn’t til he gets back to his old home that he finds out the true story of what has been going on all these years and how there’s more to Ren, then even Ren knows. But they may not make it out alive this time. This time may just be the ending they’ve been kind of waiting for.
It was hard to read the hell Nico has had to live through. It’s been unbelievable. Especially when he finds out the whole story. That was a slap in the face. A betrayal he doesn’t know if he can come back from. And while Ren is a breath of fresh air for him, he’s still terrified, because he can’t face one more person’s death. But Ren refuses to let him be alone and face all this crap alone. And that for Nico, is more than he’s ever had before. Which is even more scary. Both are waiting for the other shoe to drop. It’s a hard thing for him to trust that Ren is sincere. Even when he hears Ren’s thoughts. But Ren truly does want to help and get Nico out of the mess he’s in. But it’s going to take a lot to get through this. I truly feel for both of these guys. Nico has lived through absolute hell. Ren’s past was no picnic either. And now they are living in hell on the run. It doesn’t seem to end.
It’s one of those books that is like a thriller/horror movie, ya know? You don’t quite know what’s going to happen, even though a part of you kind of knows. You know it’s going to be bad, but when it creeps up on you it’s more than you expected. So, it’s good, but it’s dark. I don’t mind the dark. I like that kind of stuff. But for those that have a harder time with it, be careful. Form your own opinion. See what you think.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
November 7, 2019
I really wanted to like this book and I will start by saying it wasn't badly written, just a bit wordy for me. Descriptions seemed to be repeated constantly, with minor adjustments to the words used. For example, I found myself tire of the fire analogies at the beginning.
Nico, I found to be an interesting character. I would have liked to have known more of his history than we got, and perhaps more showing than telling.
Ren was, quite frankly, annoying. I couldn't understand his complete and utter infatuation to Nico, calling him perfect constantly and always commenting on how beautiful he was. Occasionally, fine, but not to the level he did. It made him seem like he was under a spell rather than experiencing true emotion.
The wolk were scary, I did fear for our characters when they were present, but they never actually hung around for long and the end felt rather quick and anticlimactic to me.
Over-all, I would have liked their relationship to progress a bit more naturally, at least from Ren's side, and for there to be more action than description. I didn't find myself itching to see what happened next. I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5, rounded up to 3.
Thank you to NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Nico, I found to be an interesting character. I would have liked to have known more of his history than we got, and perhaps more showing than telling.
Ren was, quite frankly, annoying. I couldn't understand his complete and utter infatuation to Nico, calling him perfect constantly and always commenting on how beautiful he was. Occasionally, fine, but not to the level he did. It made him seem like he was under a spell rather than experiencing true emotion.
The wolk were scary, I did fear for our characters when they were present, but they never actually hung around for long and the end felt rather quick and anticlimactic to me.
Over-all, I would have liked their relationship to progress a bit more naturally, at least from Ren's side, and for there to be more action than description. I didn't find myself itching to see what happened next. I give this book 2.5 stars out of 5, rounded up to 3.
Thank you to NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2019
Received ARC copy from NetGallery.
This was an interesting read, it had a different kind of feel to it (in a good way). I did like the characters and felt they were very flushed out. Emotions were well explained and almost over explained, but it worked within this particular story.
I did want to see more details about the world. We see really good bones for it, like super tall grass that grows above their heads, multicolored grass, and then a whole city made of unbreakable glass. But we hardly got more than a paragraph about each. We also get a glimpse of the 'monsters' called the wolk and the magicians, but I do feel like it was hardly more than a glimpse.
The writing for the characters emotions, their thoughts, their movements, and their actions around each other was incredibly detailed. Where as world building and scenery felt lacking.
Overall, I did enjoy the read even if I craved more knowledge of the world it was set in.
This was an interesting read, it had a different kind of feel to it (in a good way). I did like the characters and felt they were very flushed out. Emotions were well explained and almost over explained, but it worked within this particular story.
I did want to see more details about the world. We see really good bones for it, like super tall grass that grows above their heads, multicolored grass, and then a whole city made of unbreakable glass. But we hardly got more than a paragraph about each. We also get a glimpse of the 'monsters' called the wolk and the magicians, but I do feel like it was hardly more than a glimpse.
The writing for the characters emotions, their thoughts, their movements, and their actions around each other was incredibly detailed. Where as world building and scenery felt lacking.
Overall, I did enjoy the read even if I craved more knowledge of the world it was set in.
November 5, 2019
This was a strange one! In a good way. The story kept me on my toes as did the romance which at no point felt simple. The story did feel incomplete though, I am hoping for a follow up because a lot of the world-building in the book had these big set ups which were never really explained. Any time there is a world with magic, I also expect some exposition about the way magic works in that world. So though I understood how these characters related to magic themselves I didn't get a great sense of how they were placed in relation to the world itself. Why is Nico so powerful, what is Ren's power? How did this world come to be? These are questions that remained with me as I finished the book. I would recommend the book on the basis of characterisation and the romance itself which was sweet and took its time. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC and for the opportunity to review.
November 4, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-igD
From that review:He Dreams Magic by Emme C. Taylor is extremely well written, excellently plotted with so many twists and turns to keep the reader connected to both the story and characters. There is amazing character growth and development, along with revelations along those lines that will continue right up until the very last sentence of this amazing story. I highly recommend it.
For all our reviews, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-igD
From that review:He Dreams Magic by Emme C. Taylor is extremely well written, excellently plotted with so many twists and turns to keep the reader connected to both the story and characters. There is amazing character growth and development, along with revelations along those lines that will continue right up until the very last sentence of this amazing story. I highly recommend it.
For all our reviews, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
November 3, 2019
This book always kept me guessing. I was never sure what was going to happen next or really what had happened before until near the very end. That is not a bad thing, though! It was a whirlwind experience but that's how it should be. My one complaint would be the big finale was over just a little too fast. I get it, I just wish it had been drawn out a little bit more or maybe there was a bit more detail. Just to add some tension. All in all a beautiful read, though.
October 25, 2019
An interesting and sweet romantic fantasy, well written and engrossing.
I appreciated the style of writing, the entertaining plot, and the well written cast of characters.
I liked the world building but I'd have liked some more details.
It's a good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I appreciated the style of writing, the entertaining plot, and the well written cast of characters.
I liked the world building but I'd have liked some more details.
It's a good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
November 5, 2019
I found this story to be original and thought provoking. The characters and the world were just mesmerizing and spellbinding. I truly remarkable read that fills your head with dreams and possibilities. A really great fore into a magical world. A perfect LGBTQ fantasy literature to sink into.
December 12, 2023
Great story that follows 2 characters very closely. I could see their struggles and feel their pain so vividly it made tears come to my mind . I found myself holding my breath for the tender moments as they were so precious. This book emphasizes the human spirit and will for freedom and love. It brings to the for front that even one person having unyielding faith in another can undo all the bad and change their future. It is heart warming, dark, magical and full of hope.
The magic is subtle and powerful, the world is small but robust. The focus is character driven and an exploration of what it means to be human. It’s messy, beautiful and does not always make sense but the feelings present become the world to the characters.. a whole world to is created just by following a pull and getting to know just 1 other person . It makes me think of how much magic we miss out on in the world with every chance to discover we let slip by.
I love this story and would recommend it to everyone one.
The magic is subtle and powerful, the world is small but robust. The focus is character driven and an exploration of what it means to be human. It’s messy, beautiful and does not always make sense but the feelings present become the world to the characters.. a whole world to is created just by following a pull and getting to know just 1 other person . It makes me think of how much magic we miss out on in the world with every chance to discover we let slip by.
I love this story and would recommend it to everyone one.
December 13, 2019
“Magic is dangerous: it's neither good nor bad, right nor wrong; it can be both a blessing and a curse. It takes strength, the strength of a man, to make the magic his own, to make it serve him, and not the other way around.” ~ Daniel Wallace (The Kings and Queens of Roam)
What do you think of when you think about magic? Fairy godmothers? Glenda Goodwitch? Or maybe David Copperfield? Ren has dreamed of magic all of his life. His dreams have been very vivid and seemingly prophetic, but he can never quite grasp their meaning. When he has a chance to see magic firsthand, it doesn’t turn out to be anything like he thought it would be. Ren is confounded and horrified by what he learns, but not by Nico, the wizard who reveals its true nature to him.
Ren’s village discourages magic, so he sneaks out in the middle of the night to attend a magical carnival, expecting an exciting and enlightening time. Almost as soon as he arrives, Ren crashes into an acrobat named Nico. Ren is enamored with Nico and wants to get to know him more intimately. Nico, on the other hand, does not; he does everything he can to discourage Ren. Still, Ren persists. Finally, Nico relents and has dinner with Ren, but makes it emphatically clear that they are not going to have sex.
As the night goes on, Nico begins to realize that Ren is a man of character who truly cares more about getting to know Nico and does not just see him as an object, a potential one-night stand and his attitude toward him softens. Nico decides to “save” Ren and leads him away from the fair and into the woods. Understandably, Ren is confused when Nico who has been good to him all night, is suddenly interested in him. Instead of having sex with him, Nico frantically tries to get him to leave, but Ren is having no part of it. Suddenly, they are not alone. They are approached by some nefarious beings who attack and try to kill Nico. Even as Nico is bleeding out, he is still able to show his attackers just how much power he can invoke.
This is a very dark story that had me wondering about the morals of both main characters. It’s one of the most drawn-out enemies-to-lovers tales I’ve ever read and one of the most illogical. By all rights, Ren should have been terrified of Nico, but, for some inexplicable reason, he was not. There is a bond between them that is unbreakable. Even though Ren doesn’t think he has any magic, Nico sees that he is capable of things that Nico doesn’t see. Thanks, Emme, for reminding me that magic is neither good nor bad and that every situation has its own sense of ethics as how it is to be used.
NOTE: This book was provided by NineStar Press for the purpose of a review on R
What do you think of when you think about magic? Fairy godmothers? Glenda Goodwitch? Or maybe David Copperfield? Ren has dreamed of magic all of his life. His dreams have been very vivid and seemingly prophetic, but he can never quite grasp their meaning. When he has a chance to see magic firsthand, it doesn’t turn out to be anything like he thought it would be. Ren is confounded and horrified by what he learns, but not by Nico, the wizard who reveals its true nature to him.
Ren’s village discourages magic, so he sneaks out in the middle of the night to attend a magical carnival, expecting an exciting and enlightening time. Almost as soon as he arrives, Ren crashes into an acrobat named Nico. Ren is enamored with Nico and wants to get to know him more intimately. Nico, on the other hand, does not; he does everything he can to discourage Ren. Still, Ren persists. Finally, Nico relents and has dinner with Ren, but makes it emphatically clear that they are not going to have sex.
As the night goes on, Nico begins to realize that Ren is a man of character who truly cares more about getting to know Nico and does not just see him as an object, a potential one-night stand and his attitude toward him softens. Nico decides to “save” Ren and leads him away from the fair and into the woods. Understandably, Ren is confused when Nico who has been good to him all night, is suddenly interested in him. Instead of having sex with him, Nico frantically tries to get him to leave, but Ren is having no part of it. Suddenly, they are not alone. They are approached by some nefarious beings who attack and try to kill Nico. Even as Nico is bleeding out, he is still able to show his attackers just how much power he can invoke.
This is a very dark story that had me wondering about the morals of both main characters. It’s one of the most drawn-out enemies-to-lovers tales I’ve ever read and one of the most illogical. By all rights, Ren should have been terrified of Nico, but, for some inexplicable reason, he was not. There is a bond between them that is unbreakable. Even though Ren doesn’t think he has any magic, Nico sees that he is capable of things that Nico doesn’t see. Thanks, Emme, for reminding me that magic is neither good nor bad and that every situation has its own sense of ethics as how it is to be used.
NOTE: This book was provided by NineStar Press for the purpose of a review on R
November 14, 2019
Review excerpted from my blog post over at Pan/Cis LGBT2SQ+ Romance Reviews (https://pancis.wordpress.com/2019/11/...)
Overall Rating: 3.0 stars
Library recommendation: Recommended for public library LGBT2SQ+ historical romance collections.
Warning: Hereafter, you chance spoilers. I will try never to reveal major plot points, but to review any book, you must reveal some parts of the story.
Number of titles I have read by this author: 1
Love story speed: Insta-attraction, but the slowest of slow burns.
Relationship dynamics: The Non-Magic Villager (H1) / The Magic Acrobat (H2)
Sexual content: None; kissing only.
Gender Identity: Cis (H1) / Cis (H2)
Sexual Identity: Gay (H1) / Bisexual (H2)
Triggers: Graphic violence; recounted gang rape (not of H1 or H2, not by H1 or H2); nonconsensual, malicious touching (of H2); recounted Child murder (by H2); recounted child abuse (of H1); genocide; loose ends without a promise of a series.
Acceptance Rating: 4 stars
Acceptance Rating Explanation: Nico’s family (by marriage) doesn’t seem as accepting of homosexual relationships as everyone else in the book (e.g. his brother-in-law warns them not to have sex in his house and sneers at idea of their being together)
Grammar/Editing: My ARC had a few typos, but nothing major.
Review: This is a quick paced novel set in a magic-imbued fantasy world with a polytheistic society. The world building is what I would consider “developed in the moment.” That is, the current surroundings of the main characters are always richly described, but it would not be possible to draw a map of the entire realm from the descriptions as-given.
The main characters of this story are Nico and Ren. I found their relationship to be problematic from a (non-sexual) consent standpoint: Nico continually tells Ren to go, or to leave him alone and Ren ignores him, following him around whether he wants to be or not. I also found Nico to be a difficult character to identify with because he is incredibly volatile and hyper-destructive. The novel also has an isolating “us against the world” vibe, in that all of the other characters in the novel are either villains (who are actually quite creepy and well-done) or victims of villains.
Overall, the story is fine for what it really is: a fantasy with romantic elements. I may have enjoyed it more had I known that going in.
Full disclosure: I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Overall Rating: 3.0 stars
Library recommendation: Recommended for public library LGBT2SQ+ historical romance collections.
Warning: Hereafter, you chance spoilers. I will try never to reveal major plot points, but to review any book, you must reveal some parts of the story.
Number of titles I have read by this author: 1
Love story speed: Insta-attraction, but the slowest of slow burns.
Relationship dynamics: The Non-Magic Villager (H1) / The Magic Acrobat (H2)
Sexual content: None; kissing only.
Gender Identity: Cis (H1) / Cis (H2)
Sexual Identity: Gay (H1) / Bisexual (H2)
Triggers: Graphic violence; recounted gang rape (not of H1 or H2, not by H1 or H2); nonconsensual, malicious touching (of H2); recounted Child murder (by H2); recounted child abuse (of H1); genocide; loose ends without a promise of a series.
Acceptance Rating: 4 stars
Acceptance Rating Explanation: Nico’s family (by marriage) doesn’t seem as accepting of homosexual relationships as everyone else in the book (e.g. his brother-in-law warns them not to have sex in his house and sneers at idea of their being together)
Grammar/Editing: My ARC had a few typos, but nothing major.
Review: This is a quick paced novel set in a magic-imbued fantasy world with a polytheistic society. The world building is what I would consider “developed in the moment.” That is, the current surroundings of the main characters are always richly described, but it would not be possible to draw a map of the entire realm from the descriptions as-given.
The main characters of this story are Nico and Ren. I found their relationship to be problematic from a (non-sexual) consent standpoint: Nico continually tells Ren to go, or to leave him alone and Ren ignores him, following him around whether he wants to be or not. I also found Nico to be a difficult character to identify with because he is incredibly volatile and hyper-destructive. The novel also has an isolating “us against the world” vibe, in that all of the other characters in the novel are either villains (who are actually quite creepy and well-done) or victims of villains.
Overall, the story is fine for what it really is: a fantasy with romantic elements. I may have enjoyed it more had I known that going in.
Full disclosure: I received a free advance review copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2019
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I really adored this dark, magical tale or Ren and Nico and how they fell in love while running from the monsters that wanted nothing more than to hurt Nico and steal his magic from him. I died over learning about all the cruelties Nico had endured and how he just wanted to escape. I loved how sweet and sunshiney Ren was and how he just wanted to help, how he never ran away, how he stayed with Nico through it all.
I loved how Ren could see Nico's magic when no one else could and the chapter at the end about how he might have given his magic to the boy who needed it more through their shared dreams when they were younger, how Ren might have always been looking out for Nico without even realizing it. I loved the two of them and how adorable and perfect they were together and I loved watching their journey and how they slowly began telling each other about their pasts.
Ren was a really incredible protagonist and I just loved how he always looked on the bright side of things and how he took comfort in other people and being there for others, how he just wanted someone to cuddle up with who wouldn't leave him (and it killed me that no one in his village had ever stayed before). I loved how much he wanted to help Nico, how despite seeing the danger and knowing he had no magic of his own to fight back with, he refused to leave, knowing that if he did, Nico would allow himself to be devoured.
I really loved this story. It was dark. It was tragic. It was beautiful. It was magical. It was romantic. It was everything and all the things and absolutely stunning.
I really adored this dark, magical tale or Ren and Nico and how they fell in love while running from the monsters that wanted nothing more than to hurt Nico and steal his magic from him. I died over learning about all the cruelties Nico had endured and how he just wanted to escape. I loved how sweet and sunshiney Ren was and how he just wanted to help, how he never ran away, how he stayed with Nico through it all.
I loved how Ren could see Nico's magic when no one else could and the chapter at the end about how he might have given his magic to the boy who needed it more through their shared dreams when they were younger, how Ren might have always been looking out for Nico without even realizing it. I loved the two of them and how adorable and perfect they were together and I loved watching their journey and how they slowly began telling each other about their pasts.
Ren was a really incredible protagonist and I just loved how he always looked on the bright side of things and how he took comfort in other people and being there for others, how he just wanted someone to cuddle up with who wouldn't leave him (and it killed me that no one in his village had ever stayed before). I loved how much he wanted to help Nico, how despite seeing the danger and knowing he had no magic of his own to fight back with, he refused to leave, knowing that if he did, Nico would allow himself to be devoured.
I really loved this story. It was dark. It was tragic. It was beautiful. It was magical. It was romantic. It was everything and all the things and absolutely stunning.
November 26, 2019
This was a wonderful story and it had me hooked from the very moment Nico and Ren meet. They were always meant to be together. Saving each other. I loved the ending, even though I could totally read a sequel.
January 3, 2020
A slow-burning romance between two misfits. I liked how Ren and Nico interacted, although the magician got into my nerves now and then. Both characters are well-developed, interesting and appealing, each of them with their good and bad sides. Great reading to spend the time.
November 21, 2019
4.5 ✨
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