Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Somnus’ Palace is the first book in The Sleepwalker Cycle series by C.V. Vobh. It is a spellbinding urban fantasy that offers an imaginative journey through dreams and the subconscious as Proto awakens in a surreal world governed by Somnus, the Lord of Dreams. Having a history of sleepwalking, Proto struggles with the reality of being pulled into the dream realm, where he and others navigate dreamers’ innermost battles and fears. Amidst mystical landscapes and entertaining banter, he is on a thrilling quest where he must learn to interact with and guide dreamers, balancing self-discovery with the pressures of helping others. What can go wrong in this delicate mission, and does Proto have what it takes to make things right for the dreamers?
The central conflict arises from Proto's struggle to adapt to this extraordinary realm while fulfilling his role as a dream visitor. He confronts the burden of responsibility and the unexpected consequences of meddling in other people's dreams. His relationship with Astrid, a no-nonsense guide, evolves from skepticism to meaningful connection, allowing both characters to develop and grow as they navigate their roles in this strange world. The setting is a captivating mix of ethereal dreamscapes and hints of reality, creating an enchanting atmosphere that challenges the boundaries between dreams and consciousness. Somnus’ Palace transports readers into a well-imagined and stunningly drawn world. C.V. Vobh offers nuanced characters, and I loved how Proto learns the importance of empathy and understanding. The banter is engaging, and the dialogues sparkle on every page. The humor highlights the farcical elements of the tale while the strong plot points invite readers into a thoughtful exploration of the dream world and human consciousness.