Dream of Kings by Sharon Hinck is an award-winning adult clean fantasy novel with parallels to Joseph from the book of Genesis in the Bible. It is a beautiful story with relatable struggles of what it means to have faith, trust, and not only find but embrace purpose.
No Magic Fantasy
Since engaging with more readers online in recent years, I have learned that there are numerous people who prefer no magic in works of fiction. I do not object to fantasy magic, but I respect people’s autonomy in their reading selections. If you prefer no-magic fantasy, you can add Dream of Kings to your TBR without hesitation.
Though a no-magic fantasy, there are divine “Gifts” bestowed on individuals. Select people receive gifts from the deity, the Provider, and have a specific duty to serve the people through a guild. One such Gift is that of Dream telling, and all Dream Tellers who serve both the nation of Norgard’s high lord, top political leader, and the citizens. Because the Gifts are meant to be ordained from a higher power, a distinction can be made from average fantasy magic. (However, if you do not see a clear distinction between the two, you may want to skip the book.)
Dream of Kings: What It’s About
In Dream of Kings, readers follow Jolan who is a talented Dream Teller. As a Dream Teller, people visit Jolan seeking both interpretations of their dreams and for help recalling forgotten dreams.
Jolan uses her Gift to help people understand the Provider. In this world, dreams are often reassurances or warnings from the Provider. Though Jolan takes pride in her Gift and helping those seeking meaning in their dreams, political tension results in the murder of the head Dream Teller. Then, a great betrayal leads Jolan far from home against her will.
Jolan struggles with her faith because of the pain she can’t seem to escape. She must accept and embrace the purpose she has been called to in spite of her hurt and suffering or risk the lives of thousands as well as her own heart—but doing so may bring saving grace to the very group who first wronged her.
Biblical Parallels
With dream interpretation, betrayal, false accusations resulting in imprisonment, and so forth there are clear parallels to the biblical figure of Joseph. But, the most central connection between the historical and fictional accounts is that both relate narratives delve into purpose while in and then after pain.
Dream of Kings is not simply a retelling of Joseph. Instead, it draws inspiration from Genesis to build a unique world with a relatable character. Jolan struggles in a relatable way navigating shattered plans. She struggles embracing her calling as a Dream Teller and trusting in the Provider when things happen that shatter her own plans. Further, she also struggles with finding purpose so far away from what she believed her life would entail. Personally, I relate so much to Jolan in her struggle of trusting God’s calling in order to fulfill her purpose in His greater plan. She reminded me of a lot of my inner struggles during my twenties. I believe many others, in various walks of life, will also relate to Jolan.
Biggest Takeaway from Dream of Kings
In addition to the biblical parallels, the author does a wonderful job creating a realistic storyline. Like in life, good and bad happen outside of our control. And this is illustrated in the plot. But, how we respond and move forward is completely our choice. We have a choice to lean on God and grow as a person continuously striving to do good for others. OR we can choose to allow our hearts to be consumed with bitterness.
Unexpected Element
One thing that I was not expecting after reading the blurb, and the first few chapters, was the distinct romance thread. Yet, it is done so well. I was rooting for the characters [redacted for spoilers] to fall for each other well before the romance thread became apparent. It is done in the vein of a popular trope, and free of unnecessary and crude details. The relationship itself demonstrates admirable traits of a strong and healthy partnership. This includes encouraging each party to grow in their faith and clear communication built on honesty.
Final Thoughts on Dream of Kings
Overall, Dream of Kings is a clear 5-stars for me! Honestly, I restructured my review rating scale just a bit with the start of the year. So, I was pleasantly surprised that my second selected book was so exceptional!
Be sure to add Dream of Kings to your TBR, order your very own copy today, and request a copy at your local library!
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