Book Review: Vivid Dream by Wes Bennett
From the moment I turned the first page of Vivid Dream, I knew I was in for an enchanting ride. Wes Bennett has a unique ability to weave together the whimsical and the profound, and this installment in the Better than the Movies series is no exception. As someone who has often lost myself in daydreams and the rich tapestry of fleeting thoughts we all experience, this book spoke to me on a level that’s both relatable and deeply resonant.
At its heart, Vivid Dream explores the intoxicating blend of love, longing, and youthful naivete. Our protagonist, grappling with the persistent allure of dreams and reality, finds himself captivated by Liz—an ethereal figure from his subconscious. The lines between his waking life and dream world blur as he attempts to reclaim those fleeting moments of connection. Here’s where I felt a personal tug; who hasn’t wished to linger just a bit longer in a dream where everything feels so right?
The central theme of chasing dreams—literal and metaphorical—creates a rich tapestry for Wes to play with. The quote, "I knew sleep was a stupid reason to be tardy… but that dream had been so real," stuck with me long after I closed the book. It encapsulates the quintessential struggle of youth: making choices that resonate with the heart versus what society deems practical. The allure of these dreams is not just in their surreal nature; it’s the safe space they create for vulnerability and desire.
Wes Bennett’s writing style is a delightful mix of humor and heartfelt prose. The pacing is spot-on, effortlessly transitioning from moments of levity to deep emotional introspection. I found myself chuckling at scenes where our protagonist might as well have been wearing an inflatable T-Rex costume—an endearing metaphor for the absurdity of crushes! The warmth in his words made it feel like I was listening to a close friend sharing a secret, drawing me further into the narrative.
A particularly poignant moment arises when the narrator reflects on the smell of “vanilla of her skin,” forcing me to take a moment and bask in the sweetness of that imagery. It’s these sensory details that make the characters feel so alive. Bennett captures the essence of young love in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh, creating relatable characters who are simultaneously experiencing the giddiness and anxiety of first love.
If you’re a fan of contemporary YA romance, or simply someone who cherishes stories that tug at the heartstrings, Vivid Dream is for you. This book not only serves as a reminder of the power of dreams but also highlights that our desires—whether in dream or reality—are worth pursuing fiercely. It’s a tender exploration of uncharted feelings, reminding us all how vital it is to reach for what makes our hearts race, even if that means facing the possibility of heartache.
Wes Bennett has faithfully delivered a gem that pulls you into a world where dreams shape our desires and, in doing so, leaves you with a lingering sense of hope. I finished this book with a smile, feeling both nostalgic and inspired, and I can’t wait to see what Wes conjures up next. If you’re looking for a heartwarming story about the delicate dance of dreams and reality, this book just might be the delightful escape you didn’t know you needed. 💞
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