A review by zoeelizabethk
A Market of Dreams and Destiny by Trip Galey

adventurous mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I absolutely adored the vibes and setting of A Market of Dreams and Destiny! I'm always chasing that magical setting a la Night Circus, and while this is very much it's own thing, this gave me a similar sense of wonder and magic with the setting. Galey did a really good job giving the Market character, thinking through the worldbuilding, and keeping the dark whimsical tone consistent throughout. 

I do feel like the second half of the novel got a bit twisty and Galey tried a little too hard here, and so I had more trouble following everything going on and that hampered my enjoyment a bit. I also just did not buy into the romance. It was absolutely an insta-love setup, and I wish there had been better development as this would have helped with stakes later on. 

I do highly recommend this if you're looking for a magical, historical English faerie-esque story. Don't think too hard about all the magic, and don't go in expecting loads of character work, but enjoy being immersed in the setting and magic and you'll have a great time!