Weep Duology

Strange the Dreamer and Muse of Nightmares have been marketed as a duology, meaning there should only be these two books and no more...but I wouldn't be surprised if Laini Taylor visits the worlds of Weep, Zosma, and beyond in other novels. The politics, history, culture, and people of these worlds are just too poetic, epic, and beautiful to say goodbye to forever! Still, I'm glad I got to read both books and close the chapters on most of the major characters inside. Even if I never get to visit Weep (or the city formerly named Weep) again, I've had such a wonderful time visiting in these two (large) books.

The entirety of the story told in these two books could technically form one even larger book - Muse of Nightmares picks up right where Strange the Dreamer leaves off - but I understand why they are split (and not just because they are both already over 500 pages as they are). Each book does have its own focus, its own central journey, and slightly different emotional tones. Together, they are the story of the rise and fall of several peoples, a tale of the corruption of absolute power, and a testament to redemption in all its forms.

Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Strange the Dreamer, at its core, is about the desire and drive to find out who you are - and knowing that who you are is not what everyone else sees in you. Lazlo Strange is an orphaned librarian who doesn't know his past, but dreams - and pursues - a different future for himself. Sarai is a demigod whose past seems to have determined her future, though she wishes for a day when she doesn't have to use her nightmarish gift to protect the other orphaned demigods she calls family. Both Lazlo and Sarai are surrounded by supportive friends, flawed mentors, and challengers who would celebrate their failures. Neither thinks the other can exist - and yet they share similar destinies.

Muse of Nightmares by Laini Taylor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lazlo and Sarai are fundamentally different after the event that concludes Strange the Dreamer and opens Muse of Nightmares. How will they continue their existence now that they know who - and what - they really are? And how can they choose between their entwined future or the future of their loved ones and the city of Weep? Lazlo realizes the power he has and Sarai learns to adapt her own gifts while they come to terms with everything that has happened to bring them together.

Extras: Another Series, More Fantasy, or View All My Reviews