After the events of A Study in Drowning (book 1), Effy and Preston return to their literature college, where Effy is the first woman admitted, and Preston is elevated to teaching assistant. Set against a backdrop of war and prejudice, skeptic Preston is challenged to explain why he continues to hear the ringing of mysterious bells, and why he dreams about an underwater palace.

Both Effy and Preston struggle to continue their studies, very much outsiders in an increasingly hostile and discriminatory environment, and large portions of the book deal with their respective coping mechanisms. Themes of escapism and substance abuse are continued from the first book, and the relationship Effy and Preston forged on the seaside cliffs is tested in the heart of the city. Old supporting characters are still around and some return for a triumphant ending.

I was surprised that I liked this book more than the first. It’s just as lyrical and poetic, and talks more about the fear that comes with loving someone, rather than the fear of beginning to love. Both books focus on mysteries, interwoven with literary analysis (which was probably my favorite part). I thought the commentary on the selection of national heroes and what it takes to change a national identity was particularly poignant.  Overall, a fitting conclusion to the tale!

I would recommend this book to fans of A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft, Tamsin by Peter S. Beagle and Boys With Sharp Teeth by Jenni Howell.

A Theory of Dreaming is due for publication in the UK on 5th August – you can pre-order your copy from Bookshop.org