The Jar of Dreams Reviews

Daniel Richards 2026.08.23

     

A stunning epic adventure What an incredible adventure this story offers! The rich world-building and compelling characters kept me completely captivated from start to finish. I felt deeply connected to the journey, and the stakes had me on edge the entire time. This is truly a masterpiece in epic fantasy, and I’m already counting down the days until the sequel. Highly recommended for fans of immersive, imaginative storytelling!
Date of experience: 02 August, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.08.23

Thank you, Daniel, for sharing such kind words! I'm thrilled you enjoyed The Jar of Dreams, and your enthusiasm for the world building and the story truly means a lot to me. I am looking forward to sharing book two of The Dream Chronicles with you when it is ready.

Bruce Priddy 2026.08.03

     

An impressive debut There are fantasy novels that entertain, and there are those that invite readers to think long after the final chapter. The Jar of Dreams belongs firmly in the second category. While the story follows Tarun's quest through an imaginative world, its real strength lies in the emotional honesty of the journey. Every encounter feels purposeful, gradually revealing themes of hope, courage, perseverance and self-belief without ever slowing the narrative. Alan Riva writes with restraint, allowing the story and its characters to carry the message rather than relying on spectacle alone. The result is a novel that appeals across generations, offering younger readers an exciting story while giving older readers plenty to reflect upon. It's an impressive debut that demonstrates both creativity and maturity, and it leaves a lasting impression for all the right reasons.
Date of experience: 03 August, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.08.04

Thank you for your kind review Bruce. It means a lot to hear that The Jar of Dreams stayed with you after the final page. I am very happy that you enjoyed it.

Layton Thomson 2026.07.13

     

Can’t wait for book 2! Absolutely loved it! Such a gripping read. It’s an amazing story that takes you on a great journey through incredible places, with plenty of connections to situations we all face in life — all wrapped up in fantasy and adventure. Definitely one I’d recommend for the young and old.
Date of experience: 13 July, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.07.13

Thank you, Layton! I'm thrilled you enjoyed The Jar of Dreams and Tarun's quest in search of his stolen dreams. Can't wait to share Book 2 of The Dreams Chronicles with you when it is ready.

William Petersen 2026.07.11

     

An unforgettable fantasy journey Loved the adventure this book took me on! The parallel universe created by Allan (Riva) restarted my desire for discovery. Getting lost and still wanting more, amazing! But the nuggets of wisdom throughout, made it. Thank you for the journey! I’ll definitely be sharing this with friends, family, and especially my children.
Date of experience: 06 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.07.11

Thank you so much! It means so much to hear that you enjoyed the adventure and the messages in The Jar of Dreams. I hope your children and your friends enjoy meeting Tarun and discovering the Lands of Vaniya too.

Sylvia B. 2026.07.09

     

A fable for our times The Jar of Dreams is a gorgeous fantasy/fable that champions the notion of us reaching for our dreams and never giving up on attaining them. Alan’s writing, lush with detail, builds a vivid world for young Tarun, his hero, in which to explore and discover. And discover he does – Tarun not only meets incredible characters, makes lifelong friends and battles wicked monsters and djinns, he also discovers his true self – his strength, his determination, even his humour – via the events in his epic adventure. I love this book and can’t wait for the next one so I can travel once again with Tarun and his friends!
Date of experience: 09 July, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.07.09

Thank you so much, Sylvia!. I am thrilled you enjoyed travelling with Tarun on his epic journey in search of his stolen dreams. I am really looking forward to sharing book two of The Dream Chronicles with you when it is ready.

Walkiria Díaz 2026.06.30

     

Exciting blend between fantasy and life Loved the book. It has the perfect balance of fantasy and a life's journey, with plenty of thought-provoking messages along the way. Alan's love for Mother Nature shines throughout the story, reminding us of the importance of looking after our planet. It's also an inspiring read that encourages you to keep fighting for your dreams.

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.30

Thanks so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed The Jar of Dreams, the world-building, and the life messages. Keep fighting for your dreams!!

Emilio 2026.06.26

     

Calling all dreamers It’s a beautiful coming of age story with so much heart and life lessons that more than once I was reminded of my own dreams needing to be reawakened. And that is a rare gift to find in any book. The world that Riva has created is so rich and immersive that I felt like a traveller discovering new lands, and cultures for the first time.
Date of experience: 26 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.27

Thank you, Emilio, for such a kind review! I am glad that you enjoyed discovering the Lands of Vaniya and that you connected with Tarun's inner journey of growth that happens as he follows his epic quest.

Kelly 2026.06.22

     

A luminous modern fable I couldn’t put it down. I felt as if I was alongside Tarun as he stepped out on his epic adventure to reclaim his dreams. Read it, you’ll love it!
Date of experience: 22 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.30

Thanks so much! I'm thrilled you enjoyed Tarun's journey and that you felt as if you were with him as he travelled through The Lands of Vaniya.

Louise walker 2026.06.22

     

A Magical TRANSMISSION disguised as a story Just WOW. The Jar of Dreams had such a profound impact on me that I honestly couldn’t put it down for the first few nights! It's been years since a book has had this affect on me. I was so drawn in, so excited, and so captivated by the world Alan has created that, ironically, it even started to affect my sleep. The story quite literally found its way into my dreams. Alan has created such a unique, beautiful and colourful experience. From the very first sentence, I felt pulled straight into the story. There was something about it that returned me to a childhood part of myself I had almost forgotten. A part that still believes in mystery, magic, imagination and hidden worlds. The characters and storylines felt like more than just characters and storylines. They felt like awakenings. Like potent transmissions disguised in language simple enough for the everyday person to understand, but potent enough to reach somewhere much deeper inside. This book really offerings a commentary to disrupt us all from our "sleeping state" that so many of us fall into . . . One of my favourite lines "busy is for people too scared to face their truth." What a comment! So true. So observational. So relevant. It hit me to the core and that was just in the beginning. The opening line on the back cover says: “Everything was normal until the shadow visited me in my nightmares. In the darkness, it stole my dreams.” So potent. So exciting. So inviting! I felt completely lost in the magic of The Jar of Dreams. I’m already looking forward to reading it again, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the sequel. Thank you Alan for your commitment to releasing your magic into the world for all of us to reawaken our unlived dreams.
Date of experience: 22 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.22

Thank you, Louise, for sharing your heartfelt thoughts. I'm thrilled to hear how much The Jar of Dreams resonated with you.

Matt Mannall 2026.06.16

     

An Unforgettable Journey Through the Lands of Vaniya I absolutely loved The Jar of Dreams. From the very first chapter, I was swept away on Tarun’s incredible adventure through the mystical Lands of Vaniya. The world Alan Riva has created is rich, imaginative and immersive, filled with fascinating creatures, unforgettable characters and breathtaking landscapes that made me feel like I was travelling alongside Tarun every step of the way. What I enjoyed most was the perfect balance of adventure, mystery and heart. Every new encounter brought something unexpected, and the journey was packed with moments of wonder, courage and discovery. The creatures and cultures of Vaniya are wonderfully original, and the world-building is so vivid that it's easy to lose yourself in the story. Alan Riva has crafted far more than a fantasy adventure. Beneath the epic quest are powerful themes about dreams, fear, purpose and personal growth that stay with you long after you've turned the final page. If you enjoy epic fantasy with memorable characters, imaginative creatures and a story that inspires as much as it entertains, The Jar of Dreams is a must-read. I can't wait to return to the Lands of Vaniya and see where the journey goes next.
Date of experience: 16 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.17

Thank you, Matt, for your incredible review! I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the rich world-building and themes of 'The Jar of Dreams.' Knowing that the story resonated with you means so much. Thank you!

Arielle Perkett 2026.06.12

     

A journey through one's life and the world This book was an absolute joy to read! The world-building was so vivid and immersive that I found myself completely lost in its pages, wishing I could step into the story. Truly captivating from start to finish. I can only hope for a movie adaptation one day—it would be incredible to see this magical journey on screen!
Date of experience: 12 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.17

Thank you, Arielle! I'm thrilled you enjoyed the immersive world-building and found the story so captivating. A movie adaptation would be so exciting, I am adding it to the dream list!! Your enthusiasm and kind words mean a lot, thank you!

Louise Cole 2026.06.08

     

Captivating! A truly captivating debut, The Jar of Dreams is an epic YA fantasy filled with rich world-building, unforgettable characters, and a story that keeps you turning the pages. From the moment I entered the Lands of Vaniya and joined Tarun on his extraordinary journey, I was completely immersed. The imagination, heart, and sense of adventure woven throughout the novel make it a standout read. Whether you’re a lifelong fantasy fan or simply looking for an exciting new world to escape into, The Jar of Dreams is a book I highly recommend.
Date of experience: 08 June, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.06.08

Thank you, Louise, for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the world-building and adventure in The Jar of Dreams. It’s fantastic to hear the story resonated with you. Your recommendation means a lot.

Sissy 2026.05.29

     

The Jar of Dreams I’ve never read anything like The Jar of Dreams, nor will I again! What imagination. The detail was incredible. Such a beautiful book… I more than loved it and will so miss Tarun. I can’t wait for the next book!!
Date of experience: 29 May, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.05.30

Thank you, Sissy, for sharing your wonderful thoughts on the Jar of Dreams! I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed the world-building and connected with Tarun's journey. I can't wait to share book 2 of The Dream Chronicles with you when it is ready.

Peta Cooper 2026.05.20

     

Best fantasy novel I have read in years! Best fantasy novel I have read in years Loved The Jar of Dreams. From the first page to the last I couldn’t put it down. The world-building is epic, and I was so drawn into Tarun’s quest that I didn’t want it to end. If you liked the Inheritance Cycle or classic fantasy like Narnia, you will love The Jar of Dreams.
Date of experience: 01 May, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.05.20

Thank you for your wonderful words, Peta! I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the world-building and Tarun’s epic quest in our debut fantasy novel. Your comparison to classic fantasy is an honor, and I truly appreciate your support.

Madhu Diamond 2026.04.27

     

A breathtaking and vivid journey The story was absolutely mesmerizing! Every chapter kept me engrossed, and the vivid imagery brought the narrative to life in a way that felt so real. It's a beautifully crafted journey that is both emotional and inspiring, leaving a lasting impression. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a rich and captivating read.
Date of experience: 27 March, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.05.20

Thank you, Madhu, for your kind review! I'm thrilled that you found the narrative so captivating. Your kind words about the imagery and emotional depth mean so much to me. I appreciate your recommendation!

Rakhee Dodhia 2026.04.20

     

The Jar of Dreams Absolutely loved it! Such a gripping read. Chapush! :)
Date of experience: 20 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.04.21

Thank you, Rakhee! I'm thrilled you enjoyed The Jar of Dreams and that you are now fluent in Xhadurian. Chapush!

Flinders Stokes 2026.04.20

     

Thrilled just thrilled. The story honestly gets better as you get into it. My wife and I read the book to each other and we were just blown away. It’s seriously a good read. It’s such a good book it’s kind of like archetypal but feels like an open ended world where the story threads through. We just want to know more. Great read can’t wait for the series.
Date of experience: 20 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.04.20

Hi Flinders, I'm thrilled to hear you and your wife enjoyed The Jar of Dreams. Looking forward to sharing book two in The Dream Chronicles with you when it is ready.

Kai 2026.04.16

     

Swept into another world Gripping and imaginative, I found myself completely absorbed in The Jar of Dreams. It is an immersive epic fantasy driven by a compelling plot, filled with mystery, danger, and moments of real emotional growth. The story moves at a steady pace, always pulling you forward as the stakes rise as Tarun adventures across the Lands of Vaniya. The world-building is beautifully imagined and creates a setting that feels vast yet cohesive, with unique cultures, landscapes, and spiritual elements that drew me in. If you enjoy epic fantasy with rich characters, impressive worlds and a thoughtful narrative, this is a journey well worth taking. Highly recommended.
Date of experience: 01 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.04.17

Thank you so much, Kai, for such a kind review and for sharing how much you enjoyed the world-building and Tarun's quest. It means a lot - thank you!

Daniel Preiss 2026.04.14

     

The Jar of Dreams is a must read experience Easy to Get Lost In. The Perfect Holiday Read I read The Jar of Dreams on holiday and it was the perfect read. It is gripping and imaginative, and I found myself completely absorbed in Tarun’s adventure and quest to get his stolen dreams back. It is the kind of book that you can’t wait to get back into every time you have to put it down. I am actually looking forward to reading it again as the world building was so epic and so real that I am keen to return to The Lands of Vaniya, especially the Tan-Kun mountains. If you love fantasy, put The Jar of Dreams at the top of your TBR list.    
Date of experience: 14 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.04.17

Thank you, Daniel, for your wonderful feedback! I am thrilled that you enjoyed 'The Jar of Dreams' and found it so 'absorbing'. Your kind words about the world-building and story are really appreciated after all the years of writing.

Sarah 2026.04.09

     

Couldn't put it down! Epic and thought-provoking, I really enjoyed this debut novel by Alan Riva. The Jar of Dreams is an immersive epic fantasy with expansive world-building that feels alive.  Once I stepped into the Lands of Vaniya, I didn’t want to leave, and I loved the characters, from the warriors of light - the Pathika, to Malazhiim - the dream-devouring djinn. If you like epic fantasy, The Jar of Dreams delivers, and its life messages and philosophies are a refreshing addition to many modern fantasy novels. Highly recommended. 
Date of experience: 09 April, 2026

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Reply from The Jar of Dreams 2026.04.17

Thank you, Sarah! I am thrilled you enjoyed The Jar of Dreams. Your thoughtful words mean so much, and I hope you enjoy exploring Book 2 in The Dream Chronicles when it is out.