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Mazarine Dreamer

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Reviewed in 🇲🇽 March 24, 2026

The premise is well established in the first pages of the book, being perfectly clear about what is at stake for Flavia and how her actions and decisions were what naturally led her to be in her present dilemma. The main issue with the premise is that the moral reckoning promised from the beginning and the redemption through choosing a healthier way to love are never delivered. The main conflict is resolved through a technicality during the trial and not through true self-awareness or real change. Even though the protagonist says she has changed, we never actually see her acting differently. The premise then functions as a frame rather than a foundation; it does not structurally govern the story’s development.

The plot is complex and ambitious, rich regarding world-building and technical ability, but it leaves the structure exposed. The dual timeline does not consistently reach the plot points across realities; they do not align. The most dramatically powerful events happen in the Renaissance timeline rather than the modern one, which the author established cannot be changed, so the actual influence Flavia has over how the story develops is almost irrelevant, since she keeps repeating the past patterns in the present to get what she wants and renders the time travel as a mechanism to learn from her mistakes and redeem herself as pointless. Even though the story delivers plot resolution by having the trial annulled and Flavia marrying Netius, it does not deliver an answer to the moral question or a real development in character.

The best character arc is the Nevian/Netius one. There is a remarkable difference between the two characters; even though they are both prideful and genius-like, Nevian is abusive and self-centered, while Netius recognizes this moral failing and changes it. The character arc of Seron/Lero is deficient because his character is introduced into the dynamic way too late to properly build a meaningful relationship, and it is pretty clear from the beginning that they are a means to an end for Flavia, not a true romantic interest. We do see Flavia and Seron fall in love, even though it is still to cover up the emptiness of her clearly toxic relationship with Nevian, but we never see that parallel with Lero. This results in the stakes of losing him seeming lower than they should be.

The character arc for Flavia is, since its conception, flawed. We witness a very narcissistic, self-centered, and self-serving character, bordering on sociopathic, from the beginning. These characteristics are not punished throughout the book but are even rewarded. When the time comes for her to face the very real consequences of her actions and decisions, nothing happens. This could have had a very simple solution: make Flavia sacrifice herself at the trial, and make her really self-aware of how her selfishness caused all of this. This act of willingly sacrificing herself so the two men she supposedly loves could be safe would signal real change instead of a hypothetical character change that we never manage to see. Moreover, this would make it a tragedy, which would be much more consistent with the whole dramatic tone of the book.

One of the strengths of the book is the dual reality of being in two very different points in time. It is clear from context, thoughts, and ambience where and when the situations are unfolding. The heroic couplet was the dominant poetic form of the Renaissance and early modern period, so it is fitting that it is the format chosen to deliver it. I would have found it more immersive if the difficult and Shakespearean-like language had been contained just to the Renaissance period and not to the modern one. This would create an effect in which both narrations have a distinctive format, and it can also serve as a modernization of a literary style that is heavily in disuse, at least for novels.

The descriptions are quite vivid, and it does come across as if you, the reader, are also traveling back in time with Flavia. The technical writing of the couplets is noteworthy, and the novel sits closer to a verse drama or a dramatic poem than to conventional prose fiction. The construction of its symbols is one of its best parts; mazarine blue, the bell tower, and the Calor as the intersection of science and myth all demonstrate that science feeds the myth and the myth inspires the science.

This format is not for the masses, nor is it a work of fiction to simply relax and be entertained. It demands intellectual effort and, at times, becomes confusing. This novel is clearly not written for the typical romantacy audience, even though it has several themes in common with that genre. It would have been much better accomplished if it had been written with the intent of framing it as a romanyacy story, but in reality, cementing it as a tragedy. The novel’s ambition to be all three things (a romantacy, a tragedy, and a redemption narrative) at once ultimately prevents it from being any one of them completely.

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 March 15 , 2026

Mazarine Dreamer is the first novel written in rhyme I have ever read. I struggled with the writing style but could tell that the story would be engaging once I got acquainted with the rhyming. The character building was direct from the start with a brief introduction to the main and supporting characters, some inconsistencies I noted were duplicated origins for two of the characters, repeated but different hobbies for another. The character builds increase as the novel progresses. I enjoyed the reincarnation trope in this novel. The story continued to expand the main female characters build through her experience with time traveling to her past lives, and how the other characters played the roles throughout her lives. I was surprised by the love triangle aspect and pleasantly surprised by the romances. I was sometimes distracted by the older language use but understood that they played a part in the mood of the book. Since I wasn’t reading for grammar and misspelled words however these are ones I found: spirt (should have been spirit), ill-dealth (should have been ill-health), starred (should have been stared), gaurds (should have been guards), and conludes (should have been concludes), Also, if Bella Rioria is a proper noun or not; in some cases it was not capitalized. Overall, I enjoyed the book.

Reviewed in 🇦🇷 March 14, 2026

Mazarine Dreamer by Francesca Bella is an unusual and imaginative fantasy romance written entirely in rhyme and accompanied by illustrations. 

What makes this book truly distinctive is its poetic structure. The entire narrative unfolds in duets, creating a lyrical and dreamlike atmosphere. The language feels vivid and immersive, especially in moments like Flavia’s passage through the mysterious Mazarine fog, which captures the sensation of drifting between realities. The illustrations also complement the story beautifully and enhance the book’s fairy-tale aesthetic.

At times, reading the novel feels comforting, almost like revisiting an illustrated storybook, while still maintaining the emotional tension and romantic drama of young adult fantasy.

That said, the rhyming structure can occasionally make the narrative harder to follow. Dialogue sections sometimes become quite long, and it is not always immediately clear which character is speaking. In some moments the writing seems to prioritize rhythm and expression over clarity, which can briefly interrupt the flow of the story.

The emotional heart of the novel lies in its tragic, fated relationships. The sense that certain bonds may endure across centuries adds a melancholic tone that fits well with the story’s themes of destiny and reincarnation.

Overall, Mazarine Dreamer offers a creative and very unique reading experience. Readers who enjoy poetic storytelling, illustrated fantasy, and romantic themes of past lives and fate will likely find this book especially intriguing.

I have posted a review of this book on my bookstagram: @fantasticw0rds for anyone interested!

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 March 4, 2026

I have to start with how much I love the premise of this book. The time-traveling, love-triangle, rhyming story is so unique and intriguing. I knew that it would take me longer to read, but I was so excited to start. Once I got used to the rhyming, the story just flowed. Flavia is a hoot. I love her personality; I would love her as a friend if she were real. As for Netius/Nevian and Lero/Seron, I am not sure I like either. I don’t see what she saw in either of them.

I love the attention to colors. Everything was vivid and rich in color. I could imagine every color as if I were in the book, looking at the same things they were. Truly amazing to be able to pull color through the pages like that. All the white animals for Flavia would be fantastic to see.

The drawings were adorable. I laughed at a few, but it was also nice to have them, especially when describing a Calor. I was able to put an actual image to the description, instead of using my own imagination (which is never bad, but I loved it).

I love that Flavia waits until she gets married to have relations. In this day and age, that isn’t the norm, but it was fresh to read. Ending the book with their wedding and seeing the animals again was a good touch. Brought everything around full circle.

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 March 1, 2026

My First Take:

The illustrations are lovely and really add to the experience. They remind me of Stardew Valley in a great way.

What an interesting book in terms of style. Immediately, I was taken back to Shakespeare with such prose. At first, I had been stalled trying to find a proper way of reading, but quickly I determined slow the best. A reader who is not a fan of rhyme or Shakespeare will have a hard time at first. That is my honest opinion. The introduction was very hard to digest while finding a proper pace.

Once we started with Flavia and her entwined path with Pastello Castle, I found the story taking root. Flavia is smart and sure of herself. She handles the past and present with strength and passes all the tests thrown her way. I loved the way she tied everything together and after such a long read, my view of Flavia changed.

At first, I found her very pompous with a strong ego. She loves purity and criticizes the woman at the meeting. Her obsession with white and blue eyes made her seem vain. However, as I read on, the real her began to take form. She showed strength when faced with anomalies that went against everything she believed in. Calors and magic. Her growth outshined and prospered. Flavia’s inner growth was worth the wait.

Reading the characters’ biographies showed light on who she would choose in my opinion. Netius proved to be such an equal to her, but that is just my opinion. She is too driven to wish to marry Lero. He is too free also, which makes him a great friend.

Overall, I really went out of my comfort zone with a book in terms of prose and I must say I am glad I did! Lovely book overall.

Analysis:

Once I figured out a good way to read the verse prose, which for me was out loud and slow, the musicality and flow came instantly. I felt like I had read nearly 900 pages of poetry. It is easy to see how much effort went into the words and the author’s amazing skills with prose. As an author myself, I would not come close to bringing the words to life on page.

The story itself is layered and very descriptive, which helps with imagining Flavia’s journey. I counted at least four plots and subplots that entwined together seamlessly. That is hard with normal prose, but here worked really well.

I knew about the triangle from the start, but I had not expected the ending. I appreciate Flavia choosing what makes her happy and if that meant keeping both men in her life, then good for her. She handled it with grace and that is so important for women to see examples of. Choosing one’s own happiness comes first.

Even though it is a rather long book that is completely rhythmed, I enjoyed it immensely and readers who enjoy the musicality of words and poetry wrapped in story will love the book.

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 February 17, 2026

** spoiler alert ** I love the Shakespearian ways of writing mixed with modern words. The imagery really pulls you in from the very beginning of this book!! The illustrations are absolutely beautiful!!! The ending was captivating and shocking, giving me everything I wanted with nothing I expected, the perfect end to this book!

If you want to read the thoughts I had while reading, IT DOES CONTAIN SPOILERS, please enjoy:

Notes While Reading:

1. Pictures are beautiful!!!

2. Pg. 5, characteristics for Netius is listed twice.

3. Pg. 13, I already feel like I’m reading the works of a modern Shakespeare!

4. This could totally just be my Kindle, but there are two page 13s.

5. There are two page 19s.

6. This imagery is everything! It really pulls me into the story and is getting me hooked.

7. I’m starting to think it is my Kindle (which is a Kindle Paperwhite with a 6.8” screen that I bought in 2022) but there are two page 26s. Due to this, just in case it is a mistake, I’ll list them under this one so I don’t bore you with it.

8. This is such a smooth and easy read that it’s wonderful to just get lost in and enjoy it! I’m already on page 105 and I’ve been reading for a short time now!

9. There is no pg 129, 174, 200, 287, 343, 347, 407, 434, 519, 568, 636, 695, 803, 886, 899.

10. Pg 202: Mythy or mythly, look it up.

a. I looked it up and understand now! I did not know mythly wasn’t a word!

11. Pg 204: Liger?

a. Ooooh, I was reading it as “Lee-ger.” A liger, a lion + tiger.

12. Pg 205: Flavia and Nevian are SO CUTE!

13. Pg 207: I absolutely love the writing style!!!

14. Pg 226: I love the use of modern words in this old time writing!

15. Pg: 243: Elizabeth I Tudors? Or different?

a. Yep, Elizabeth I Tudors!! She’s my favorite Queen!

16. Pg 335: Felids? Look it up.

a. Oh! Carnivorous cats, got it!

17. Pg 560: Sir, yes, food is food, but give a girl time to choose! I am VERY picky when it comes to my food.

18. Pg 708: Me too, girl, me too. Blood is very icky sometimes.

19. Pg 712: Cherubim? Look it up.

a. Oh! Multiple cherubs.

20. Pg 749: I love Flavia’s outfits!

21. Pg. 835: Should it be “pressed artful” or “pressed artfully?”

22. Pg 835: Freest? Look it up.

a. Oh! The superlative of Free!

23. Pg 837: I can’t decide if I like Seron or Nevian better.

24. Pg 838: Low-key, I really want that bed-

25. Pg 846: NO WAY, THEY’RE FIGHTING!!!

26. Pg 850: Yeah…don’t know if I still like Nevian…

27. Pg 901: IDONA?!

28. Pg 906: Me, too, girl. I got two men I love equally too, so I don’t find this hard to believe.

29. Pg 909: Title mentioned!

30. Pg 914: OH MY GOD

31. Pg. 930-931: She’s with Netius and Lero just left??

32. Pg 937: Oooo, vanilla perfume, it fits her beautifully!

33. Pg 939: THEY’RE GETTING MARRIED!

34. Pg. 949-950: I love the combining of their lives!!

35. Pg 953: AMAZING BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 February 9, 2026

I was pretty impressed with this book! The way it blends rhyme and rhythm into the story is really special. Flavia’s journey to figure out her past loves while dealing with all the drama is so relatable—kinda reminds me of my own relationship struggles.
I read this one evening after a long day, and it totally whisked me away to another world. It made me think about love and choices in such an interesting way. The whole idea of how the right love can impact your future is beautifully explored. If you enjoy a mix of fantasy and introspection, you’ll really enjoy this one!

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 February 7, 2026

Going in, I was very intrigued by the idea of a story being told entirely in couplets. It did take a little getting used to, but eventually I was able to enjoy the story more without getting too bogged down by the language. I did go in blind, so I wasn’t quite expecting the time traveling romance, but I was very hooked by it! Flavia’s journey as she balanced two-timelines mirrored her own inner conflict in a way that I also wasn’t expecting. I thought the way that this story was chosen to be told also added to the dreamlike experience in a very unique way.

The prose at times was both beautiful and a little clunky. There were a few phrases that I feel didn’t quite hit the mark because of the strict style in which it was being written. However, none of these were enough to really take me out of the story, and overall I thought it very unique and delightful.

The addition of a dramatis personae in the beginning was a stroke of genius. It helped so much with keeping track of everyone, and I would have been lost had I not been able to go back and look at it.

Overall, I did have a great time reading this book, and I would recommend it to other poetry and historical romance lovers out there.

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 January 29, 2026

Mazarine Dreamer is a must-read for fans of fantasy and time-travel romance. Newcomers to rhymed reading will appreciate its easy flow, and seasoned readers will enjoy its vivid imagery and captivating plot. After receiving high praise at a work banquet for her excellent work as a psychiatrist, Flavia stumbles upon a fortune teller who catapults her back in time. She is then forced to confront the misdoings of her past life and becomes caught once again in the middle of a scandalous series of events. The book consists of tried and true themes of betrayal, love triangles, and mystery. Will Flavia be able to reconcile her past life and return to the future?

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 January 19, 2026

Mazarine Dreamer by Francessca Bella is a very unique story written in poetry and rhyme. I felt it was very pleasant reading the mysterious romance, and I was most definitely surprised. Plenty of intrigue for a new reader like myself, since I have never read anything that has to do with time-traveling, spiritualism, the Renaissance period, or reincarnation.

The main character, Flavia’s journey, was beautifully written, like reading a fairy tale. I felt the words were easy to read and understand. The unexpected love triangle was sought with comparison to other books I have read in the past; there was no comparison. I loved the illustrations; it just made me realize that you can combine drawing, poetry, and creative writing all in one! That was very impressive! It was also interesting seeing her move between the time periods, from present-day Spelthorne, England, 2043, to the Renaissance, Italy. I’ve never really read anything from that time period, so I was very surprised. I really enjoyed the character descriptions and illustrations! It made it easier to understand the story! Throughout the story, I kept wondering who the good guy was and who the bad guy was, which was very surprising to find out. I like the scenes where she’s dressed up in the castle; all the descriptions of her wardrobe are Hollywood-worthy. The parties that she attends at castles also sound like a lot of fun. Very interesting how she follows the clues of the pigeon, the scrolls, and her love of nature.

The Lord Briarfield character seemed to have ill intentions, and Nevian, one of her past lovers, had such a huge ego. I was not a fan of either one. I really enjoyed the scene where Flavia and Nevian travel into the labyrinth; it seemed beautiful! I enjoyed her love of animals; it was a part of her kind nature. Overall, I felt the book was very enjoyable but a little bit long. 5/5

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 January 11, 2026

“Mazarine Dreamer” by Francessca Belle is a unique poetic romance. It is an entertaining mystery that keeps the reader on their toes. Beginning with the table of contents, the reader is thrown back in time to really get a feel for the ambiance of the book. The rhyming couplets keep the book intriguing for the entire 975 pages. The themes of love and science versus the supernatural in the world add to the fantasy of the story. The love triangle was intense and helped move the plot immensely. The artwork throughout the book was exquisite and really helped me visualize what was happening. I thoroughly enjoyed the poetic rhythm of the story. It was an extraordinary read!

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 January 7, 2026

*Mazarine Dreamer* enchants with its beautifully crafted world and compelling characters. The story weaves fantasy and emotional depth seamlessly, inviting readers to explore themes of hope, courage, and the power of dreams. With lyrical prose and vivid imagery, it’s a captivating read for anyone who loves heartfelt fantasy adventures that inspire and uplift.

Reviewed in 🇺🇸 January 2, 2025

Flavia’s story took me across centuries worth of love and mystery! While I did have to go back and reread a bit here and there to really understand, solely because I wasn’t used to the rhythmic flow, I truly enjoyed the book! I love a good fantasy, and the added love triangle made it even better especially since it made her really reflect on her life journey. I did enjoy really enjoy the “cast list” at the beginning of the book too, as it went back and forth, I also would turn back and remind myself who was who! If you’re looking for something different, and very intriguing, Mazarine Dreamer is your book!

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