This book was the perfect way to end my year of reading. I don't think I've ever read anything like it. Sweet, whimsical, and guileless, everything about this book delighted me. I'd describe it as a work of philosophy and psychology blended into a cozy fantasy, with vignettes that touch on the human experience in a way that feels every more profound for the author's unassuming (and charming) writing style.
If I can compare this to a food, it would have to be macarons. Sweet and lovely, but with a complexity that belies the tremendous imagination and skill of the author.
Highly recommend!!

3.5/5
The concept of this story was really cool, being able to go to a store in your sleep and “buy” a dream about anything your heart desires sounds like something many would like to experience. It was nice to read about some of the dreams that people choose even if not all were all about something happy and how it helped them in real life. There were many quirky characters and vivid imagery about the department store. I feel like some of the narrative nuance got lost in translation since the Korean language is quite different and they use a lot of honorifics. Overall it was a really cute and whimsical story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange of an honest review.

With an evocative cover, truly original concept, and fascinating blurb, I thought this book would be a perfect fit for me. Unfortunately, I just couldn't find my way into it. The writing is very evocative and the plot wholly imaginative. I love the idea behind it, but it felt more scattered in narrative style than I wanted it to be and I struggled to connect with it as a result. It's a fabulous construct, just not a good fit for me...

Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press for an ARC copy of The Dallergut Dream Department Store!

I was so close to skipping this one because I was convinced that the heart of the story would surely, literally, be "lost in translation" but I am SO glad I didn't skip it. What a whimsical and wonderfully weird adventure! Penny was the sweetest and most relatable main character. I can already tell this book will stick with me for a long time and I'm already dying for the sequel!!

5 full stars ❤️

"The Dallergut Dream Department Store" by Miye Lee invites readers into a whimsical and enchanting world where dreams are bought and sold. Set in a mysterious town hidden in the collective subconscious, the novel unfolds the story of Penny, a new hire at the department store that specializes in selling dreams of all kinds.

In this unique setting, visitors, both human and animal, flock to the store to purchase their desired dreams. Each floor caters to different dream categories, ranging from nostalgic childhood dreams to adventurous trips and even nightmares. The novel introduces readers to a colorful cast of characters, including Penny, the enthusiastic new employee; Dallergut, the flamboyant owner of the store; Agnap Coco, the producer of special dreams; and Vigo Myers, an employee in the mystery department.

The plot takes an intriguing turn when one of the most coveted and expensive dreams is stolen during Penny's first week. As she delves into the workings of this fantastical world, readers are taken on a journey that combines elements of mystery, fantasy, and magical realism.

The book promises a captivating story that leaves a lingering magical feeling, offering an escape from the reality of daily life. If you've read "The Dallergut Dream Department Store," share your thoughts on the enchanting world created by Miye Lee—whether you were drawn to the concept of a store selling dreams, appreciated the characters, or found the storyline to be a refreshing escape.