Book Review: Half a Soul
It had been ages since my last regency read, and when I heard of this story (blending fantasy elements with a cozy feel), I knew I had to give it a try. That decision lead to discovering one of my favorite cozy fantasies ever. I’m not one who tends to remember all the details of a book, but Half A Soul has stuck with me since the day I read it.
A BRIEF SUMMARY
Half A Soul by Olivia Atwater is the perfect blend of regency romance and fantasy. Set in Regency England, the novel follows the journey of Theodora Ettings (Dora), a young woman cursed by a faerie to have only half a soul. As she navigates the intricacies of London society, she forms an unlikely connection with Elias Wilder, the enigmatic Lord Sorcier, leading to a compelling (and magical) tale full of faerie shenanigans, love, and redemption. Plus, if you love a good grumpy sunshine trope—or really, a grumpy not-very-emotional-at-all trope—you’ll enjoy the relationship dynamic between Dora and Elias.
WHAT I LOVED
One of the aspects which stood out to me the most in Half A Soul is its exploration of societal injustices and the emotional toll they take on both the victims and those seeking to make a difference. Atwater examines themes of poverty, illness, and social inequality, offering a poignant portrayal of the challenges faced by the marginalized in Regency society. The novel's handling of these themes adds depth and complexity to the story, elevating it beyond the confines of traditional regency romance, or its fantasy counterparts. I’m sure it didn’t dive as deeply into these topics as some might want, but I think it was the perfect amount for a cozy read.
Central to what makes this book special is its characters, particularly Dora and Elias, whose dynamic and multifaceted personalities bring the whole thing to life. Dora's struggle with her half-soul curse is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance, allowing us to empathize with her. Despite her emotional limitations, Dora's level-headedness and accidental wit make her a compelling and relatable protagonist, while Elias's transformation from aloof aristocrat to compassionate hero is both heartwarming and believable. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry, making it so fun to read. When we learned why Elias is the way he is, we believe him. We understand him. And it makes us love him even more.
In addition to the memorable protagonists, Half A Soul features a rich cast of supporting characters who enhance the narrative with their unique personalities and storylines. From the lovable Albert and his mother to the sinister Lord Hallowvale, each character brings us deeper into the story, making it all the more real.
FINAL THOUGHTS
5/5 stars, for sure.
This cozy novel blends elements of romance, fantasy, and historical fiction in a way that made it so I couldn’t put the book down. I read it in a single day, no regrets. Olivia Atwater's wonderful storytelling, vivid characterizations, and accessible-yet-beautiful prose make this book a must-read for fans of regency romance and faerie tales alike. With its poignant themes, engaging characters, and charming romance, Half A Soul is sure to leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Regency Faerie Tales series. I’ve already read them all and have fingers crossed that we’ll get more books in this world.
Happy reading!
