bambi_idk's review
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
julie_loves_books's review against another edition
1.0
I wanted to like this book..it had supernatural touches that I truly enjoy reading about. But, I found it a bit boring and slow. It didn't draw me in...and I couldn't keep reading. Did not finish.
jenny_reads_horror's review against another edition
3.0
I kind feel bad about giving a three star review after seeing so many five star reviews. For me, IN MY DREAMS is one of those it's not you it's me books. While I enjoyed the story line, I also felt like it was lacking in areas. Maybe it's my age (35)? Maybe I would of enjoyed it more if I was younger? I found myself skimming over parts that seemed a little redundant, mainly when Lizzy was in her dreams. Parts seemed forced and awkward. A decent read, just not one I would care to read again.
alexlcriddle's review against another edition
4.0
3.5 stars
This was a fast-paced paranormal romance, emphasis on romance, that kept me interested throughout the novel. The writing was quite good, though a couple of flashbacks about Lizzy's and Michael's relationship, and how their love developed, would have given a whole other level and depth to the story. A section of the ending didn't seem to fit with the rest of the story (it was cool and definitely added to the paranormal aspect), but for me, it felt random. I think the plot point it revealed could have been explained in a different way; and yes, it was further evidence of Michael's love for Lizzy, but I already understood his devotion and that section pushed it over the top, seemingly shoving it in my face as a reader, making sure that I really got the love angle, though it was repeatedly demonstrated throughout the novel. But in all honesty, it was a good book; it was clean (romance wise--there was a lot of inappropriate language); and I think romance fans would eat up this story.
This was a fast-paced paranormal romance, emphasis on romance, that kept me interested throughout the novel. The writing was quite good, though a couple of flashbacks about Lizzy's and Michael's relationship, and how their love developed, would have given a whole other level and depth to the story. A section of the ending didn't seem to fit with the rest of the story (it was cool and definitely added to the paranormal aspect), but for me, it felt random. I think the plot point it revealed could have been explained in a different way; and yes, it was further evidence of Michael's love for Lizzy, but I already understood his devotion and that section pushed it over the top, seemingly shoving it in my face as a reader, making sure that I really got the love angle, though it was repeatedly demonstrated throughout the novel. But in all honesty, it was a good book; it was clean (romance wise--there was a lot of inappropriate language); and I think romance fans would eat up this story.
angelastl's review against another edition
4.0
Good story. Depressing but in a good way? Characters could have a little more to them. But over all not a bad book.
michalice's review
3.0
Review from Much Loved Books
From the first few paragraphs I am already in love with the descriptive writing, it made the whole experience more realistic to me, letting me imagine what was happening.
"the air was dense and musty, and a white mist concealed the cold, damp earth beneath my feet"
I really like the relationship that Lizzy has with Michael and how they have gone from best friends to being together and I can sympathise from where she is coming from, a broken home.
Her premonitions come in forms of dreams and if I were to have only "good dreams" then I would really love to have this myself.
The story evolves and unfolds seamlessly, and we follow Lizzy as she deals with her emotions with some gripping storyline, which even made me cry. We get glimpses into Michael's and Lizzy's relationship in the forms of dreams, where they visit different places for Michael communicate.
The anticipation of what was going to happen next had me sitting on the edge of my seat, and although the story itself is based on a short time line, it is packed full of suspense, romance and paranormal.
It concluded really well and I hope there is another book to follow as I can't wait to follow Lizzy again.
From the first few paragraphs I am already in love with the descriptive writing, it made the whole experience more realistic to me, letting me imagine what was happening.
"the air was dense and musty, and a white mist concealed the cold, damp earth beneath my feet"
I really like the relationship that Lizzy has with Michael and how they have gone from best friends to being together and I can sympathise from where she is coming from, a broken home.
Her premonitions come in forms of dreams and if I were to have only "good dreams" then I would really love to have this myself.
The story evolves and unfolds seamlessly, and we follow Lizzy as she deals with her emotions with some gripping storyline, which even made me cry. We get glimpses into Michael's and Lizzy's relationship in the forms of dreams, where they visit different places for Michael communicate.
The anticipation of what was going to happen next had me sitting on the edge of my seat, and although the story itself is based on a short time line, it is packed full of suspense, romance and paranormal.
It concluded really well and I hope there is another book to follow as I can't wait to follow Lizzy again.
hncald78's review
5.0
beautiful
this is a beautifully written book. i felt my emotions take the journey of its characters. get your favorite couch and blanket and enjoy.
this is a beautifully written book. i felt my emotions take the journey of its characters. get your favorite couch and blanket and enjoy.
kazandrak's review
1.0
I think I rolled my eyes at least twice every chapter. Everything was so cliche--the phrases (knight-and-shining-armor, etc.), the romance ("forever in my heart!!! <3 <3 <3), the terrible plot twists at the end...my god. I actually cringed.
cartialese's review
4.0
Elizabeth is a young girl who waits for her boyfriend, but little did she know how her life will change after a dream... Founding out that Michael, her boyfriend, and her best friend is dead, devastated her. But what happens when love defeats death? Michael's spirit communicates with Elizabeth and she discovers that her boyfriend's death wasn't an accident...
”In my dreams” is that kind of book that has those twist and turns in a paranormal way, but it focuses on relationships, love and friendship. I can say it has that murder/mystery style, with a sad atmosphere. It's a fast-passed book, with great description and a story that can break your heart. I admire that it didn't had the typical dark villain, in this case it's a realistic one. The main character was interesting to imagine, with her experiences and heavy life. You can compare this to the hit-series Ghost whisperer, but that's not a bad thing, because the book has a surprising story filled with action and love, with a satisfying ending/twist.
Thank you Renae for sending me this book!
”In my dreams” is that kind of book that has those twist and turns in a paranormal way, but it focuses on relationships, love and friendship. I can say it has that murder/mystery style, with a sad atmosphere. It's a fast-passed book, with great description and a story that can break your heart. I admire that it didn't had the typical dark villain, in this case it's a realistic one. The main character was interesting to imagine, with her experiences and heavy life. You can compare this to the hit-series Ghost whisperer, but that's not a bad thing, because the book has a surprising story filled with action and love, with a satisfying ending/twist.
Thank you Renae for sending me this book!
wheems01's review
3.0
Lizzy Hayes is doing alright for herself. Although she is seventeen, she has moved out on her own to get away from her alcoholic mother, she has a job, she pays her bills, she goes to school, but best of all she has the best boyfriend ever, Michael. When Michael is murdered and begins visiting Lizzy in her dreams, warning her that the killer is coming after her too, Lizzy can't even imagine the danger she is in, danger that is coming for her.
I love novels that have just a touch of the paranormal in them, especially when they involve a good mystery. In My Dreams is one of those novels. The story is a page turner taking you from one harrowing situation to the next.
I love the characters in this novel. Lizzy is a smart, strong girl who felt very realistic to me. Michael, as sweet as he is, was a bit too perfect to be true. I love the relationship between the two of them, a relationship that is severed by Michael's death. Emily, Lizzy's best friend, was simply charming, and fun to be around.
The bad guy of the novel was a bit stereotypical, but would definitely get bonus points for creepy factor. This was not a guy you would ever want to meet.
I usually don't notice grammar or typos in novels, usually I am too engrossed in the novel, but this one did have a few. My copy does not indicate that it is an advance, but that may well be the case or perhaps a first printing with some errors. It looks like the book has been rereleased with a completely new and totally awesome cover--it is the one you see with this review. Great cover right?! So it is very possible that those small flaws may have been fixed with the new printing. I also want to mention that these were minor, and did not influence my feelings on the story being told.
Overall, this was a great action packed mystery that kept me turning pages. I recommend it to those who like mysteries with that touch of paranormal, and a spunky main character. In the end it sounded like this may have been a first book--perhaps more to come. I certainly hope so because I do want to see what happens next.
Cautions for sensitive readers: Violence and an attempted rape. Mild language.