Dark fantasy novel inpired by classic fantasy novels like Alice in Wonderland and Chronicles of Narnia. Recipient of a perfect 10/10 from Publishers Weekly and first prize winner during the 2022 Readers Favorite Book Awards for YA General Fantasy. Read the Amazon Best Selling sequel to Where Dragonwoofs Sleep and the Fading Creeps. Fever Dreams and the End of All Things is inspired by packed full of action and whimsical humor, all wrapped in an 80's dark fantasy aesthetic.
Fever Dreams and the End of All Things is ★★★★ (4.42) on Goodreads
As Ben, Avery, and Marcus near their last summer break before high school, a feverish sleep beckons them back to the mysterious dream realm of Meridia.
The three friends haven’t returned to Meridia since they stopped the Fading from consuming their magical world. But a new triad of villains threatens the land: The Ghastly Three. Ben, Avery, and Marcus must join forces with a kodkod pirate, translucent elves, and even the Sovereign’s former generals if they wish to survive.
Traversing the Lost City of Contraptionists, the Drowned Swamps, and the Undercurrent ruled by the Nightmare Queen herself, they race against the Ghastly Three to stop them from obtaining the World Builder, an artifact that empowers the wielder to reshape Meridia to their wicked desire.
Meanwhile, the real world is threatening to break them apart and thwart their summer plans. With changes unseen and secrets unspoken, will their friendship survive this supreme threat, as well as their transition to Trinity High?
This tale, rich in elements of dark fantasy novels, intertwines the essence of classic fantasy novels with epic battles and magical alliances.
"Maybe it was better this way. They never stood a chance against The Ghastly Three anyway. The water wrapped around his neck like warm fingers, tightening ever so slightly around his throat. Marcus gazed upward and shut his eyes. All he needed to do was sleep now."
BookLife Prize Quarter Finalist
10/10 - A compelling, original and spectacularly well-written fantasy coming-of-age/adventure story that will entice YA and adult readers into the dream world of Meridia and the all-too-real world of junior high school.
(full review)
Kirkus Reviews
A riveting fantasy sequel that skillfully expands the boundaries of its predecessor.
(full review)
Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
★★★★★
Gold Medal Winner- 2022 Readers' Favorite Awards
Settle into a comfortable reading chair, relish the author's role as Dungeon Master and storyteller, and get involved in an intense and compelling adventure/fantasy tale.
(full review)
D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer for Midwest Book Review
Massey excels at creating vivid scenarios, demanding circumstances, and unexpected twists and turns that challenge young heroes to engage in the biggest battle of their lives.
(full review)
Catherine Langrehr for IndieReader
This is not a book for small children, and it does not talk down to its audience or treat its young adult characters and readers as innocents to be pandered to, but as intelligent, thoughtful people in the throes of one of the most difficult times of their lives.
(full review)
Self-Publishing Review
★★★★1/2
A tireless and tremendously creative adventure, Fever Dreams and the End of All Things by A.J. Massey is a strong sequel in a deeply fascinating realm.
(full review)
What is the main conflict in the heroes' return to the dark world of Meridia? The main conflict is between the protagonists and a new group of villains known as the Ghastly Three. The villains aim to obtain the World Builder, an artifact that can reshape Meridia according to their evil plans. Meanwhile, the protagonists' plans to reinvent themselves the summer right before high school are also challenged by forces beyond their control.
What genre does this sequel fall under? The heroes' return to the dark world of Meridia belongs to the dark fantasy genre, characterized by its mysterious, magical, and often foreboding elements. It also features elements typical of classic fantasy novels.
What inspired A.J. Massey to write fantasy novels? A.J. Massey was inspired by classic books like "Alice in Wonderland" and "The Chronicles of Narnia." Additionally, he drew significant inspiration from 80s fantasy films such as "The Neverending Story," "Labyrinth," and "The Goonies."
What makes the Dragonwoof novels stand out among the best fantasy novels? A.J. Massey's novels stand out due to their rich storytelling, captivating fantasy elements, and the unique nostalgic touch inspired by 80s fantasy films, offering readers a distinct and memorable reading experience.
What are the recommended reading ages for these books? Where Dragonwoofs Sleep and the Fading Creeps will appeal to both teens and adults aged 11+. Advanced readers aged 10+ have also enjoyed the book. Fever Dreams and the End of Everything skews slightly older, probably 12+ due to villains and scenarios that may be scarier for younger children.
What’s the main reason someone should really read this book? Along with a thrilling fantasy story, A.J. wanted his readers to navigate the social complexities of the eighth grade and show that not everyone falls neatly into cliques. Oftentimes, we fall into middle school purgatory--not cool enough for the cool kids, not nerdy enough for the nerds. What happens when these characters team up and are put in a position where they must save a dream world and everyone in it?
All covers and original artwork are done by the amazing Ricky Gunawan.
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