A Theory of Dreaming: Sequel to a Study in Drowning

A Study in Drowning was a 5 ⭐️ read for me, so I was super excited to read the sequel, A Theory of Drowning. Unfortunately, I did not like it quite as much.Ava Reid writes beautifully. Her lush prose makes reading her books such an enjoyment. However, A Theory of Drowning, despite her gorgeous writing, seemed to have no plot. It was just a book of filler. I found myself getting distracted from it easily because there really wasn’t much going on, no matter how much I loved to read about Effy and Preston.Either way, I’m glad I read this book, to see some closure come for a certain story line, and to read more about Effy and Preston, though I felt disconnected from them this time around. If you loved A Study in Drowning, I would definitely recommend reading the sequel.

Ava Reid has an uncanny ability to write soft, lovable characters with deep complexities. I feel connected to Effy and Preston in the depths of my soul. I loved A Study in Drowning, but was skeptical when I heard that we were getting a sequel. I didn't feel that it was needed, and I hate when authors drag out a book/series. I am happy and relieved that I was wrong. A Theory of Dreaming was necessary and beautiful. It continues Effy and Preston's stories, with the added bonus of Preston's POV. The nuance that Ava is able to weave throughout her writing is poetic and perceptive, not only in the depth of their characters, but in the metaphors they create and the exploration of heavy topics and traumas. I especially appreciated the obvious undertones and ties to the Israel/Palestine conflict (not to mention Ava's outspokenness on their socials related to this as well). Ava really has cultivated a unique writing style that I haven't seen anyone else accomplish and I don't know how else to describe it besides "beautiful".I loved this book and highly recommend it.

A Theory of Dreaming by Ava ReidRating ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️3 starsAva Reid undeniably writes flawless prose and that reason alone is why I’ve rated this a generous (in my opinion,) 3 stars. When interviewed in regards to this novel Reid stated she never planned to write a sequel to ASiD and this book absolutely shows that to be true.This is dual POV but focuses more on Preston, picking up where ASiD left off with the dark academia theme/vibe. The pacing was slow and I oftentimes felt confused by what I was reading, unable to really identify the actual plot. The miscommunication issues that Preston and Effy suffered from in ASiD carried right into this novel and a great portion of the book is spent reading about how both of the main characters felt they were burdensome and not worthy of each other. Thus, no real character development from the first book as they had the same exact issue then. This became so repetitive it was frustrating.I feel like a lot of things were touched on but never really explored to depths that would make the novel more interesting such as the War on Argant and the Llyrian-Argantian conflict. Reid did do an amazing job with mental health representation which I feel is delicate subject matter and difficult to write with grace and accuracy.Overall this novel just wasn’t it for me. This book took me a MONTH to read (unheard of for me,) and each time I set it down I really wasn’t inspired to pick it up again. I feel like it was unnecessary and ASiD should have been left a standalone novel.

Some possible light spoilers.The story, while well written, wasn’t as good for me as the first book. It felt like the main characters didn’t just take steps back but jumped down a hole, plummeting even lower.I just, I guess felt let down. Granted healing isn’t all climbing and success it just felt disappointing that it was all downhill until the end. Then a miraculous change in attitude. It just didn’t feel realistic.All that aside I did enjoy the book for the most part and I’m glad I’ve added it to my library. The first book will continue to be one of my favorites.

Ava Reid has truly cemented her place as one of my favorite authors over the past year. Her writing is visceral, lyrical, and utterly enchanting—I feel completely spellbound every time I step into one of her beautifully crafted worlds, and A Theory of Dreaming was no exception. Picking up where A Study in Drowning left off, this sequel follows Effy and Preston as they navigate the emotional aftermath of the first book’s chaos. Set against the haunting backdrop of the University, the novel masterfully blurs the line between dreams and waking life, unraveling layers of longing, trauma, and transformation. This a story that doesn’t sugarcoat reality. Academia isn’t just about chasing knowledge—it’s a messy game of thrones, packed with politics, manipulation, and behind-the-scenes power struggles. Governments are quick to weaponize belief, using it to fan the flames of patriotism and justify conflict. And if you dare to expose the truth, don’t be surprised when people turn on you. Most would rather dig in their heels than face the fact that everything they’ve believed in might’ve been a lie.By the time I reached the end of this book, I was in tears—something I absolutely didn’t see coming. I had enjoyed A Study in Drowning for its beautifully eerie atmosphere, but it was A Theory of Dreaming that truly resonated with me, thanks to Preston and Effy’s emotional journey. One of the highlights for me was the dual POV. Giving Preston his own voice and history made all the difference. His character gained so much depth, and watching him finally step into focus brought me so much joy. Effy’s battle in this book is a completely different kind of war. This time, she’s not up against a mythical king or a manipulative mentor—her greatest challenge is her own mind. I care for her so deeply, and watching her try to piece herself back together was genuinely heartbreaking. The portrayal of depression and trauma here was so raw and real—I could feel every bit of it echoing inside me. There was also something hauntingly beautiful about how water and waves ebbed and flowed through the novel’s imagery. The thread of literature stitched the world together with elegance. What stayed with me most, though, was the commentary on women being silenced and written out of history by the men who controlled their fates. The final act of reclaiming a woman’s lost voice felt like a healing echo across both stories. Ava Reid doesn’t just tell a story—she breathes life into it, and this one left a lasting mark.The worldbuilding and backstory in this novel were incredibly compelling. I especially appreciated how Reid expanded on the lore of the sleepers—it added an extra layer of depth that made the story even more engaging. One of my favorite aspects of her writing is how she seamlessly weaves literature into the narrative. It’s clear that Reid has a profound love for words and storytelling, and that passion shines through in both Effy and Preston. While I thoroughly enjoyed following their emotional journey, the ending did feel a bit rushed, possibly because so much time was devoted to developing their characters and struggles. The pacing felt a bit slower in certain parts, but the tension was more palpable this time around compared to the first book. Instead of the eerie, haunting vibes we got in A Study in Drowning, this installment leans more into academic and historical aesthetics, creating a noticeable tonal shift. The core themes—female authorship, elitism in academia, and the dismissal of survivors—remain present, echoing the concerns of the first novel. However, what stood out this time was how the narrative didn’t shy away from tackling racism and nationalism. These issues were finally brought to the forefront, and they were explored in a way that felt timely, relevant, and deeply woven into the story. The conflict between Llyr and Argant felt slightly disconnected from the rest of the plot—more like a backdrop created to support Preston’s storyline than a central thread. That said, it didn’t take away from my overall experience. Despite those moments, I still found this book deeply moving and beautifully written.In the end, I’m giving this book a solid 4 stars. I genuinely enjoyed the reading experience and would definitely recommend it to anyone who loved the first book and is curious to follow the story further. That said, A Study in Drowning stands strong on its own—so if you felt content with how things wrapped up there, you could skip this one without missing out too much. While A Theory of Dreaming adds emotional depth and expands the world, it doesn’t feel absolutely essential to the overall narrative.Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins for this eARC.

Admittedly I didn't absolutely love a Study in Drowning. I knew so many people who had loved Effy and I just wasn't quite connecting. I loved the writing style, the story was interesting but something just didn't quite hit. It was good but not great. I only say this so it's understood where I'm coming from with this review. That being said A Theory in Dreaming is completely undoubtedly great and gave me such a better appreciation to its predecessor. It built upon it so perfectly it left me at a loss for words. Ava Reid's prose are so beautiful and haunting. I wish I was eloquent enough to tell you all the themes that were covered and how poignant it felt to read this story. Especially with what is going on in the world today. Moving forward Effy and Preston will hold a special place in my heart and I can't wait to not only reread A Study in Drowning but get my hands on a physical copy of this book gorgeous book.Of course this review is only thanks to receiving a Arc from Netgalley and publisher

A Theory of Dreaming was hauntingly beautiful. No one writes atmospheric, dreamy prose like Ava Reid. It gave us a dark, intense, emotional continuation of Effy and Preston’s story, and examined how nationalism, the high-pressure world of academia, and mental health struggles impact romantic relationships and personal identity.Effy is at once strong and fragile. She’s been through so much, and she wants to give up, but she continues to fight for the life she wants and the love she deserves. Preston is tender, protective, vulnerable, and broken. As the war between Llyr and Argant gets worse, he feels the hatred and suspicion of his college peers, and retreats to his dream world to cope. If you want a dark, gothic, academia with elements of romantasy, mental health struggles, the duality of a dream world vs the horrors of waking life, and a sweet & supportive romance, you should definitely read this. I adored this duology, and can’t recommend it enough!📔A Theory of Dreaming✏️ Ava Reid📆 July 29, 2025⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️READ IF YOU LIKE:🌊 dark academia🌊 gothic romantasy🌊 dream world vs waking life🌊 mental health struggles🌊 sweet & supportive romance🌊 dual POV

A Theory of Dreaming is the sequel I didn’t know I needed, the one Ava Reid nearly didn’t write! Effy and Preston, Preston and Effy. These two hurt and love and carry each other literally and metaphorically and I love them. They are the fictional power couple. They are powerful in their weakness as well as their strength, they are powerful in loving each other when seen at their lowest.A Theory of Dreaming could stand on its own; its plot deals with the unreal world in a similar way to ASID, and yet has higher stakes in the very real world of Llyr and Argant. There is also a broader lens to the world and characters of ATOD. Instead of the claustrophobic feel of Hiraeth, the university and city expand the action. Instead of the ghosts of Myrddin and his family, Rhia, Maisie, and Lotto join in to support Effy and Preston.The parallels of Llyr’s government with our own at this time were also quite striking. A Theory of Dreaming is a study on nationalism and patriotic mythology. Reid’s writing satisfies an itch for both a fiction and a thought-provoking allegory, and honestly it makes her fiction that much more enjoyable for me.A Theory of Dreaming is an absolute success, and I’m so glad it’s Reid’s first sequel. Please read this duology!

I can’t believe Ava Reid wasn’t originally planning to write this sequel—because wow, it’s phenomenal. I’m so glad she did.In this installment, Effy and Preston return to school, grappling with the emotional and societal fallout from the events of the first book. Preston is forced to confront uncomfortable truths—about magic, xenophobia, and the lies perpetuated through literature and history. Effy, meanwhile, is reeling from the absence of the Fairy King. Her reliance on sleeping pills deepens, and she begins to spiral into depression. She’s also navigating the isolating experience of being the only woman in the literature college, all while facing public backlash over the thesis she and Preston crafted at the end of book one.This sequel is slightly darker and tackles heavier themes than its predecessor, but the atmosphere remains absolutely enchanting. The love between Preston and Effy—and the loyalty they share with their friends—shines through in a way that’s deeply wholesome and heartwarming. Despite the world’s many flaws, I adored being immersed in it again.The world-building, the characters, the plot—everything about this book felt pitch-perfect. I don’t know if Ava Reid plans to revisit this universe, but if she does, I’ll be first in line. It’s just that good.

No one does melancholy as achingly as Ava Reid. I was surprised that Reid wrote a sequel to A Study in Drowning. The first book ended on a hopeful note for Effy Sayre. But this book pulls the curtain back on Effy's partner, the steadfast academically minded Preston. Despite his impressive academic resume, Preston has always been an outsider, as a student with a foreign last name. When it seems like his two countries, Lyr and Angar, might go to war, Preston finds himself escaping into the magical kingdom below the sea.Reid is fascinated by the institutions that systematically make women feel small and ignored, and I was excited that this book included Preston's POV. I enjoyed that the book didn't feel a need to to really play for melodrama with Preston and Effy's relationship - the two may be dealing with their individual problems, but they remain deeply in love and most importantly, are kind to each other despite the traumas and mental illness they both face. The book is also incredibly resonant in a time where there is so much suffering in the world - it asks how much responsibility we have to other people, versus the ability to escape into our own, better world (which, as an avid reader, is something I have thought about constantly).This book was a beautiful read, although I would recommend reading A Study in Drowning first. No one makes you cry and opens your heart like Reid. Thanks to Harper Collins for the early copy.

“There’s nothing wrong, especially . . . it’s just too much. It’s all too much.”⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️ - this is a YA title but there is closed door scenes/discussion about sexA Theory of Dreaming feels like, well, a fever dream. I want to go back and reread it now that I know how it ends so that I can pick up on more of the little details.This was such a compelling look at the close line between reality and what is beyond - whether that be magic, parallel realms, or the world that exists within our dreams. Rather than the dark, spooky mansion, feeling from the first book, ATOD has more of the college campus setting as well as an ocean/museum vibe. You’ll get what that means once you read it.Effy and Preston both go through some really challenging times and this book definitely continues to have a darker feeling to it. The whole story is very moving and I found it to be much more emotional than the first book for me.I highly recommend this duology. The writing is beautiful and the story is engaging. It also manages to explore a lot of important topics.Possible triggers below - I know some people view these as spoilers so you can decide if you would like to read this part or not.*******************************************************There are some heavy topics discussed and just like with the first book, I did not see a page with trigger warnings. If you do want content warnings, I will list them here. This is a YA book (I would say upper YA) so wow there are some darker topics. They are not discussed in great detail. (xenophobia, bullying, suicide attempt, sexual assault - off page)

Could your deepest desires become your darkest nightmares? Can love save it all.? Ava Reid has this magical ability to write Gothic romances that bring you to a different world. No other book really makes me picture a book like hers. I really felt Effys and Prestons love in this book. I was glad we got more of Preston! I think it was a great follow up to the first book. Definitely unique. I enjoyed reading it!! Although I didnt feel as connected as I felt to the first book.

Overall I enjoyed A Theory in Dreaming! This is a great sequel that picks up right where the first leaves off. Preston and Effy are back at school but now have to deal with the fall out of revealing the truth of Emrys Myrrdin. While dealing with this fall out the war has escalated even more between the Argantians and Llyrians causing huge problems for Preston and Effy. Preston, who’s already an outcast as the only Argantian at school, is now being called a saboteur and is hearing the mysterious bells mentioned at the end of the first book. Effy, now the first and only woman in the literature college, is struggling to find her place in the male dominated college while also struggling to recover from everything that happened in the first book. While both are very happy together, they decide to fight their battles on their own and not tell the other in order to protect them. This ultimately leads to Preston and Effy both having some major problems and struggling with a lot of inner turmoil. This was a dark time for them both and the author wasn’t afraid to show anxiety, self loathing, and some very very dark thoughts.Now I have mixed feelings on how Preston and Effie pretty much had separate storylines. I loved Preston’s point of view since we finally learn more about Argantians, his past, and the war. But I feel like we never got enough information about the entire war and history. Following along with the first book another story/poem slowly begins to unravel the truth behind the war but I feel like it didn’t have the same impact as the reveal in the first book. Preston’s role in this seemed a bit disjointed and I wanted just a bit more. While I did enjoy seeing more at college and Preston’s & Effy’s friends this story did not have the same impact on me as the first book. I was missing more of the mystery we see in the first. That being said I still enjoyed A Theory in Dreaming and highly recommend to those who enjoyed A Study in Drowning!

I adore this series and I think this book is my favorite of the two! They are slower paced but the story sweeps you along with gorgeous imagery and intriguing and magical mysteries. I loved how this story focused more on Preston and his journey to acceptance of the magic in their world! The depression storyline with Effy was very well handled and complimented the message in this story. I also loved the political themes in this book around how we treat immigrants, the role culture plays in education, and the continued silencing of women. And I loved that all of these themes were not subtle but also fit into the story seamlessly. I adore this series and it is a must read for anyone that enjoys a more academic style of fantasy!Also this version is absolutely gorgeous!!

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Melancholy and drenched in moody dark academia, A Theory of Dreaming wades into the dangers of escapism and folding into yourself. After Effy conquers the Fairy King she’s left alone with her own personal demons and struggles to face them. Preston is a man in love and learning to navigate the emotions that come with it- including the feeling of helplessness when it comes to Effy. Both struggle with their situations at the collage. The rumors and prejudices swirling around them become suffocating. Why fight when drowning is much more tempting? Why not just escape.I loved the ethereal quality and that reading this felt like a waking dream. Everything is real yet nothing is, and somehow both worlds intertwine into this captivating story. Its slow pace was nice to pick up and read here and there, while slowly sifting through my thoughts about it.This is a great read for dark academia lovers or someone looking for a moody Fall story to pick up.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

"It takes strength, to feel so much. To feel so deeply."A Theory of Dreaming is the perfect sequel to A Study in Drowning. While the first book belonged to Effy’s struggles and dreams, this book shifts to Preston’s story of discovery and choice. As Effy fights for her place at the literature college, Preston is drawn into dreams that threaten to consume him. With war looming and their past refusing to stay buried, both must decide who they are beyond the stories they’ve told themselves.Ava Reid’s prose is as lush and atmospheric as ever, tying up loose ends while introducing new favorites (Lotto!) and revisiting beloved characters (Rhia!). The novel beautifully explores the struggles that come after the "happily ever after," making every triumph feel all the more powerful.A stunning, emotional conclusion to a dreamlike duology.

ARC review"A Theory of Dreaming" by Ava Reid is the sequel to "A Study in Drowning".I received an ARC from Harper Collins Children's Books (via Netgalley).Opinions from this review are completely my own."A Study in Drowning" is the first book from Ava Reid that I read and I fell in love with the world and with Effie and Preston.I was very happy when it was announced that there will be a sequel.Somehow I also got lucky to be able to read it early, for which I am very greatful.If in "A Study in Drowning", the story was told only from Effie's perpective, now we have a dual POV (Effie and Preston).After Effie defeated the Fairy King, she wrote a thesis with Preston about beloved national fairy tale Angharad.Also she is now the first woman enrolled in the literature college.She also has trouble slepping and needs to take spleeping pills.Preston becomes professor Gosse's assistant and helps him with a secret project.He can reach a different place while dreaming and finds out some secrets.At the same time he is afraid that Effie is in danger and he cannot protect her.This book made me fell very emotional as I could fell Effie's depression and Preston's anxiety.It is a bit darker than ASID (please check the content warnings).We can see Preston's personality development more and his struggles as an Argantion in Llyr during the war.Also, Effie is geting lost in her pain and only wants to sleep.The writing is beautiful and the story is more about the characters, the plot has a slower pace.I love the moments between Effie and Preston, but it hurt me that both were insecure and did not think they are good enough for the other.This story and these characters will stay in my heart forever.

Where Effy’s story was essential in A Study in Drowning… Preston’s story is… enlightening… in A Theory of Dreaming.I was so surprised a sequel was coming to A Study in Drowning.. but after reading it… I can't imagine this story without both parts. Together, they form a deeply moving and necessary narrative. One that feels incomplete without the other.This is still the dark academia setting we grew to love, but this time… we’re going under the ocean. To a palace under the sea where Preston… reigns as king.Dreams offer comfort, escape, even freedom. But this book doesn’t let you stay there. It shows that while dreams can save you, only reality can shape you.It’s refreshing to read a book where the love interests are already… in love. Where do you go from here? Is it all sunshine and rainbows? Or does it become more? Is it about who they are as a person? How they help shape you. Look after you. Care for you. And want to keep you safe. Sometimes the sweetest love story is after the infatuation. It’s what settles the foundation into something strong and meaningful.Much of this story is difficult to sit with… and that’s the point. It’s about the cost of escape, the weight of reality, and the courage it takes to stay present when dreams offers everything you think you want. It’s heavy, but it stays with you for a reason.I can’t help seeing the parallels between our own world and what is happening in this story…. “Myths and stories can't be broken down like stone. Would that it were so simple.""Of course not," Preston said. "A king can reign a thousand years from a castle built on clouds! That's what faith is. Belief in what can't be felt or seen. But it's enough to give their faith a little shake. Enough to make some of them start to doubt. The real magic was never the men themselves. It was their stories.”We often resist discomfort, but it’s in those moments where the ground feels unsteady and we’re forced to reach beyond ourselves… that something lasting takes root.“The young students who are clever enough to ask questions, who are brave enough to venture into the dark corners of the world for answers, and who are strong enough to survive when the foundation of everything they know crumbles from beneath them.” Those are the heroes. Those are who we should look up to.Keep the rage of change inside your heart. Let the drum beat steadily inside you that explores EVERYTHING. Is curious at ALL TIMES. Does not settle for lies or half truths. And remember… “Swear fealty to no cause but knowledge.”If you have a front porch and a comfy chair. This is the book you’re going to want to read on a rainy day with a blanket and some tea… and let this book pull you under. It’s a story soaked in the ocean depths of old histories… where dreams ripple against reality, and nothing is quite what it seems. It’s gothic, aching, and darkly exquisite. The kind of tale that feels like a dream half remembered, or a secret kept too long. It’s haunting. Hypnotic. And utterly spellbinding.

Effy and Preston return to university amid a changing landscape. Effy is now a literature college student, though her classmates are anything but welcoming. The war between Llyr and Argant intensifies. And the truth of Myrddin’s legacy is suppressed by the government. All the while, Preston is dreaming of a kingdom beneath the sea and slowly losing sight of himself and Effy.Read if you like:-Reality vs Dreams-History vs Propaganda-Love Conquers AllI loved A Study in Drowning and thought it was going to be a tough act to follow, but wow oh wow did Ava Reid say 'hold my beer.' I love A Theory of Dreaming even more than ASID! I did not want to put this book down and simply could not read it fast enough. It is such a beautifully written book. It echos some of the themes of ASID and takes a new look at them, while expanding on the Llyr/Argant divide with such great commentary on all of it.I love that we got Preston's POV in this book. He is such a tragically romantic MMC.I can't recommend this duet enough!