If you haven’t had the privilege of reading the Strange the Dreamer duology by Laini Taylor yet, first of all, you are in for a treat. But more importantly, what are you waiting for? If you need a little persuasion to move it higher on your to-read list, or convincing to pick it up in the first place, then look no further!

Here are 5 reasons why you need to read Strange the Dreamer & Muse of Nightmares.

1. The writing

Simply saying Laini Taylor has a way with words fails to encapsulate just how beautiful and impactful her prose really is. I had to stop reading just to appreciate a particularly wonderful passage on more than one occasion. It will suck you into the world and bless all of your senses with the rich, colourful and magical descriptions.

2. The characters

I dare say this duology has one of the most realised and intriguing cast of characters I've ever come across. The protagonists and their friends are flawed and lovable. The antagonists are complex and nuanced. There are many morally ambiguous characters, raising questions about good and evil, heroes and villains, and whether the end really justifies the means. It was a delight to follow these characters as they interacted with the world, developed new and existing relationships, and embarked on their personal journeys.

3. The imaginative and enchanting world

There are gods and fantastical creatures, legends and alchemy, dreamers and monsters (both human and not). All of this and more is wrapped up in a unique and strange landscape which will have you completely spellbound. You will love learning all about the world and the lost city of Weep and all they have to offer.

4. The rich and enigmatic history

It's not just Weep harbouring mysteries and secrets, but the entire fictional world Taylor has created. When you finish Strange you won't be able to stop thinking about it and you will probably jump into Muse on release day because you'll just need to know what happens next! The way in which all of the mysteries unfold and our questions are answered is incredibly masterful, I am in complete awe of Laini Taylor.

5. Libraries and stories and books, OH MY!

If you love books then you will relate to the lovable librarian Lazlo Strange! Here are just a few of the reasons why I love him so dearly:

•             He is a storyteller and dreamer.

•             He works in an epic library that all book-lovers can appreciate.

•             His fascination with Weep only intensifies your interest in the mythical city and its inhabitants.

•             He is a Ravenclaw if I ever saw one!

There is so much more to enjoy in the Strange the Dreamer duology, but that's for you to discover for yourself. Honestly, do yourself a favour and pick up these books!

Thanks to Little Book Owl for this brilliant guest blog! Join Catriona for a readalong of Strange the Dreamer and Muse of Nightmares.