Author: Rebecca Ross
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Received: Own (OwlCrate)

I’ve been meaning to sit down and read Rebecca Ross’ works for years now. But when one of her books, Dreams Lie Beneath, was included in one of my OwlCrate boxes, I knew that the wait was over (for me at least), and I am SO glad to finally say that I am in love with her writing style.

Clementine Madigan is a warden. It is her job to protect the people of her small town, alongside her father. In this case, protection means something slightly different, as she literally has to protect them from their nightmares.

Her life, her home, and her path were all ripped away in a single night when two challengers showed up to take what had belonged to her family for years. Now Clementine is on a path to try and understand why they would do this to her, and that requires her to trick one of the magicians who took it all away. She just hopes Phelan doesn’t see through her ruse.

“Dreams often revealed one’s greatest vulnerability; dreams were doors that led into hearts and minds and souls and secrets.”

Once again, I find myself head over heels for an OwlCrate choice. They’re really knocking it out of the park, as far as I’m concerned. Dreams Lie Beneath was a fantastic read, with just the right amounts of fantasy and romance.

Right away, it was easy to get emotionally attached to Clementine’s story. Her whole life was based on taking care of this little town, and she loved doing it. So when it was all ripped away, it hurt to see. Naturally, it made rooting for her all the easier.

Clementine’s quest for understanding and revenge did not go the way I expected. If we’re being honest, I don’t think it went the way she expected either. It had so many twists, turns, and surprises. It was impossible to predict what was going to happen next.

“It will make you colder. But even the deepest of ice eventually gives way to fire, Clementine.”

Despite that, many of the transitions made sense, especially looking back now. The groundwork had been laid, even if I couldn’t see it at the time. I absolutely adore it when that happens, so I would like to give Ross credit for the work done here.

Part of me is quite sad that this is a standalone novel, as I would have loved to see more about Clementine’s journey. Her story may have ended, but it doesn’t feel like an end, more like another beginning.

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