★★★★★ Dreams and Slumbers (October Daye #10.1), by Seanan McGuire
Arden's voice
Dreams and Slumbers (October Daye #10.1)
Seanan McGuire
Ardne’s voice
Dreams and Slumbers is a bonus novella included with Once Broken Faith. It should be read after Once Broken Faith. It is told in the first person by Arden Windermere. Although the principle story tells of Arden's actions immediately following the the elfshot convocation, she also tells about her memories of earlier times, dating back to the late 19th century.
The events of the story themselves are not all that important, although one thing happens that will have lasting consequences. But, as is so often the case in the October Daye series, the stories don't occur in linear time. A later story can reach back to the past and change your understanding. That's why Arden's childhood memories are so important. They revised my understanding of the Luidaeg.
The main thing I liked about this story was Arden's voice. Arden is much more of a thinker than Toby. Thus, we get a contemplative story, rather than Toby's usual WHACK/stab/blood-soaked narration, even when talking about the same events. I love Toby, but the change was refreshing. I would dearly love to hear from Arden again, although I don't think that's likely.