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Soul Court Ascension #1
City of Souls
Bounty hunter Hel’s life depends on staying below the radar and passing as human. But when the infuriating Lord of the City of Souls discovers her hidden power is the key to solving his problems, he reclaims her bond-debt and drags her into the spotlight. He’ll protect her secrets on one condition: that she does everything he asks.
Winged necromancer Bastion would do anything to save the city he rules from the strange magic menacing their world. Even blackmail the angry, intriguing bounty hunter who despises him. As the rulers of the elemental courts converge to face the threat, he’s not sure who hates him more—them or Hel. The only way to keep her close is to make her pretend she’s his.
With dark magic tearing at the fabric of reality and betrayal lurking behind every corner, Hel and Bastion’s fake relationship becomes the only thing either of them can rely on. But Bastion’s past might just come back to kill him.
And Hel’s might kill them all.
City of Souls is book one of the Soul Court Ascension trilogy—a steamy enemies to lovers Paranormal Romance with a side of Urban Fantasy.
Winged necromancer Bastion would do anything to save the city he rules from the strange magic menacing their world. Even blackmail the angry, intriguing bounty hunter who despises him. As the rulers of the elemental courts converge to face the threat, he’s not sure who hates him more—them or Hel. The only way to keep her close is to make her pretend she’s his.
With dark magic tearing at the fabric of reality and betrayal lurking behind every corner, Hel and Bastion’s fake relationship becomes the only thing either of them can rely on. But Bastion’s past might just come back to kill him.
And Hel’s might kill them all.
City of Souls is book one of the Soul Court Ascension trilogy—a steamy enemies to lovers Paranormal Romance with a side of Urban Fantasy.
332 pages, ebook
First published November 9, 2022
About the author
Mel Harding-Shaw
6 books42 followersMel Harding-Shaw is a Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy author from Wellington, New Zealand. Her debut novel, City of Souls, was released in November 2022.
She is also a widely published speculative short fiction writer under Melanie Harding-Shaw.
She is also a widely published speculative short fiction writer under Melanie Harding-Shaw.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
November 20, 2022
4.5
I'll always be here for you, baby girl. Not even death could keep me away.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is LITERALLY everything I needed and more
City of Souls is the debut novel for Mel Harding-Shaw's Soul Court of Ascension series and when I say that it is worth the read... Boy is it.
Within the book we follow our two MCs:
Helaine: A strong willed, badass woman who is hiding from her father after the two worlds collided. Within this book we follow her from working for the City of Soul's guardians to working directly with the Lord of the city, Bastion. At first she comes off as this badass character who obviously has an issue with authority and the way that they want her to live..
Which by the way I am totally here for
Throughout the book she becomes very relatable with falling to the things that are out of her control making her even more lovable.
Bastion: A necromancer who runs the City of Souls, from birth he has been an outcast to his own court and when the two worlds collided he took it upon himself to take care of the City. Throughout this book the way that we get a better in-depth look into his motives and who he is truly makes you fall in love with him as well. The way that he takes care of the people who mean something to him and the way that his and Helaine's relationship develops throughout the book makes me want to die :)
Honestly the development of this book is absolutely great, I love the way that even though you don't figure everything out within this book you still have a clear gasp and understanding of what is going on and honestly I feel like I should automatically be reading the next book because I NEED TO KNOW THE ANSWERS MEL!!
Even though this book is under 300 pages, I promise you the way that their relationship molds and everything else unfolds will literally have you wanting to do dirty things to read the next book!
Smut Rating:
45%
Tension Rating:
80%
All in all, if you like any of the following tropes you will love this book:
-Fantasy
-Enemies to Lovers
-Paranormal Romance
-Steamy Romance
-Urban Fantasy
-Mystery
-Thriller
-Edge of your seat tension
If you liked any of these books you will love this one:
Chain of Iron
Feral Sins
Shades of Wicked
I'll always be here for you, baby girl. Not even death could keep me away.
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is LITERALLY everything I needed and more
City of Souls is the debut novel for Mel Harding-Shaw's Soul Court of Ascension series and when I say that it is worth the read... Boy is it.
Within the book we follow our two MCs:
Helaine: A strong willed, badass woman who is hiding from her father after the two worlds collided. Within this book we follow her from working for the City of Soul's guardians to working directly with the Lord of the city, Bastion. At first she comes off as this badass character who obviously has an issue with authority and the way that they want her to live..
Which by the way I am totally here for
Throughout the book she becomes very relatable with falling to the things that are out of her control making her even more lovable.
Bastion: A necromancer who runs the City of Souls, from birth he has been an outcast to his own court and when the two worlds collided he took it upon himself to take care of the City. Throughout this book the way that we get a better in-depth look into his motives and who he is truly makes you fall in love with him as well. The way that he takes care of the people who mean something to him and the way that his and Helaine's relationship develops throughout the book makes me want to die :)
Honestly the development of this book is absolutely great, I love the way that even though you don't figure everything out within this book you still have a clear gasp and understanding of what is going on and honestly I feel like I should automatically be reading the next book because I NEED TO KNOW THE ANSWERS MEL!!
Even though this book is under 300 pages, I promise you the way that their relationship molds and everything else unfolds will literally have you wanting to do dirty things to read the next book!
Smut Rating:
45%
Tension Rating:
80%
All in all, if you like any of the following tropes you will love this book:
-Fantasy
-Enemies to Lovers
-Paranormal Romance
-Steamy Romance
-Urban Fantasy
-Mystery
-Thriller
-Edge of your seat tension
If you liked any of these books you will love this one:
Chain of Iron
Feral Sins
Shades of Wicked
Read
November 11, 2022If you at all enjoy urban fantasy romance in the vein of Kate Daniels or Nalini Singh, this is the book for you. Featuring all the greatest tropes: enemies-to-lovers! fake dating! magical bonds! wings! mysterious pasts! Fast-paced with intricate worldbuilding and characters you can't help but root for. This magic-melded version of Wellington, New Zealand, is vibrant and cleverly done. I enjoyed every second of this.
June 15, 2023
First of all, the cover is very intriguing! I discovered this book in January and then decided to wait to read it until the second one came out in case of cliffhangers. Then my girl Alex started reading it and raved about it and I decided to move it up on my reading timeline.
The story takes place in a sort of otherworld post apocalyptic world where the earth, elemental and soul worlds collide in what's called a Melding. The Elementals are very territorial and all rule their areas differently and then you have the City of Souls that's shrouded in this darkness but is also considered neutral ground. There are these couriers who are dispatched to take care of otherworldly creatures who are causing problems and/or killing humans. Hel is one of these couriers and she's been in the game for half her life. She's tried to stay under the radar because she doesn't believe in making friends or found family because everyone who cares about her ends up dead. She's also laser focused on paying off her indentured debt and being free.
A big assignment comes across to capture a terror that is related to a contagion that's spreading in the City of Souls and the Elemental territories that brings Hel within Bastion's radar. His power is the ability to talk to the dead but also use their souls to boost his natural power -- basically a very strong necromancer with angel wings. Hel has him confused, hot and bothered and also extremely frustrated because she doesn't want to help save the world's and he ends up trapping her in a fake dating relationship that would pay off he debt but also help him save the world.
The pacing for this book worked very well for me. I felt the world and the characters in it were very engaging. Hel and Bast didn't have the feel of mortal enemies which was refreshing for me but they definitely hated each other at first. Their chemistry was on fire. Lots of hate make out sessions I was here for built up to an explosive relationship by the end. I really enjoyed the Tower family of Ra, Kaia and her mom. As much as Hell wanted to resist, I'm glad she was written to understand that she actually can be vulnerable around the right people. The ending wasn't too much of a cliffhanger but it definitely had me diving right into Book 2.
Highly recommend if you're interestered in a otherworldly urban fantasy type of romance. Also kudos to the author for the Māori rep.
The story takes place in a sort of otherworld post apocalyptic world where the earth, elemental and soul worlds collide in what's called a Melding. The Elementals are very territorial and all rule their areas differently and then you have the City of Souls that's shrouded in this darkness but is also considered neutral ground. There are these couriers who are dispatched to take care of otherworldly creatures who are causing problems and/or killing humans. Hel is one of these couriers and she's been in the game for half her life. She's tried to stay under the radar because she doesn't believe in making friends or found family because everyone who cares about her ends up dead. She's also laser focused on paying off her indentured debt and being free.
A big assignment comes across to capture a terror that is related to a contagion that's spreading in the City of Souls and the Elemental territories that brings Hel within Bastion's radar. His power is the ability to talk to the dead but also use their souls to boost his natural power -- basically a very strong necromancer with angel wings. Hel has him confused, hot and bothered and also extremely frustrated because she doesn't want to help save the world's and he ends up trapping her in a fake dating relationship that would pay off he debt but also help him save the world.
The pacing for this book worked very well for me. I felt the world and the characters in it were very engaging. Hel and Bast didn't have the feel of mortal enemies which was refreshing for me but they definitely hated each other at first. Their chemistry was on fire. Lots of hate make out sessions I was here for built up to an explosive relationship by the end. I really enjoyed the Tower family of Ra, Kaia and her mom. As much as Hell wanted to resist, I'm glad she was written to understand that she actually can be vulnerable around the right people. The ending wasn't too much of a cliffhanger but it definitely had me diving right into Book 2.
Highly recommend if you're interestered in a otherworldly urban fantasy type of romance. Also kudos to the author for the Māori rep.
September 23, 2023
4.5.
This was really very good and a pleasant surprise!
The enemies to lovers was done spot on. As was the legitimate reasons both of them had to distrust one another, so I didn't find myself getting annoyed at their miscommunication. The chemistry was delicious as well.
Along with a high stake main plot and some good side characters, there wasn't really anything not to like. And the second book is out, so that's a bonus!
This was really very good and a pleasant surprise!
The enemies to lovers was done spot on. As was the legitimate reasons both of them had to distrust one another, so I didn't find myself getting annoyed at their miscommunication. The chemistry was delicious as well.
Along with a high stake main plot and some good side characters, there wasn't really anything not to like. And the second book is out, so that's a bonus!
November 27, 2023
Lackluster, The MCs are freaking annoying, it’s hard to root for any of them, they were childish and useless, in a matter of fact, all of the characters were useless and despicable.
Also, I hate with a passion the trope « my body is betraying me » that’s so annoying, especially when there’s no chemistry between the MCs. Giant plot holes, lame, I’ve stood until the end but lord did I waste my time.
Also, I hate with a passion the trope « my body is betraying me » that’s so annoying, especially when there’s no chemistry between the MCs. Giant plot holes, lame, I’ve stood until the end but lord did I waste my time.
March 14, 2024
CITY OF SOULS was a fantastic read and I loved every second of it! The set up for the melded earths was really interesting and I liked the altered world that Harding-Shaw has created. It's partly modern in its technology but also a bit apocalyptic with dangerous monsters and abandoned parts of the world.
Hel and Bast were great characters and while their relationship was an epic slow burn, it paid off in the end. Hel was tough, badass, and not afraid to stand up to Bast or any of the other Court leaders. Her headstrong nature made it hard for her to trust others and this leads Bast to initially think that Hel is selfish and cold. Bast is used to sacrificing everything for the city and the people he loves with his whole heart, but he's also worn down from the prejudices against soulweavers and his half-brother's relentless attempts to kill Bast for a crime he didn't commit. They don't want to admit it but Hel and Bast have a lot in common and their shared experience of being hunted and isolated means they understand each other better than most strangers would.
This is a perfect read for fans of enemies to lovers and when I say enemies, I do mean genuine enemies. These two really hated each other and were fighting their attraction with everything they had. And the fact they had to pretend to be together in front of the other Courts made it even more delicious as they set off sparks left and right while also driving each other up the wall. I also loved that even though they have this unexpected connection, they still have to earn each other's respect and trust. They don't just magically believe the other's claims of innocence and it takes a while for them to work through the misconceptions they have about each other.
Throw in some lovable side characters, lots of monsters, magical portals, and political intrigue and I was completely hooked.
Content Warning: past death of a loved one; indentured servitude
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You’ll stay in the spare room of my penthouse. When we’re with anyone other than my main advisor Ra or the Tower Manager Ana, you’ll have to pretend to like me.”
“And what will you be doing?”
Bastion’s smirk widened. “I suppose I’ll have to pretend to like you as well.”
- - - - -
He knew nowhere near enough about her and yet he knew everything that mattered. He wanted her. She belonged with him.
Hel and Bast were great characters and while their relationship was an epic slow burn, it paid off in the end. Hel was tough, badass, and not afraid to stand up to Bast or any of the other Court leaders. Her headstrong nature made it hard for her to trust others and this leads Bast to initially think that Hel is selfish and cold. Bast is used to sacrificing everything for the city and the people he loves with his whole heart, but he's also worn down from the prejudices against soulweavers and his half-brother's relentless attempts to kill Bast for a crime he didn't commit. They don't want to admit it but Hel and Bast have a lot in common and their shared experience of being hunted and isolated means they understand each other better than most strangers would.
This is a perfect read for fans of enemies to lovers and when I say enemies, I do mean genuine enemies. These two really hated each other and were fighting their attraction with everything they had. And the fact they had to pretend to be together in front of the other Courts made it even more delicious as they set off sparks left and right while also driving each other up the wall. I also loved that even though they have this unexpected connection, they still have to earn each other's respect and trust. They don't just magically believe the other's claims of innocence and it takes a while for them to work through the misconceptions they have about each other.
Throw in some lovable side characters, lots of monsters, magical portals, and political intrigue and I was completely hooked.
Content Warning: past death of a loved one; indentured servitude
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Favorite Quotes:
“You’ll stay in the spare room of my penthouse. When we’re with anyone other than my main advisor Ra or the Tower Manager Ana, you’ll have to pretend to like me.”
“And what will you be doing?”
Bastion’s smirk widened. “I suppose I’ll have to pretend to like you as well.”
- - - - -
He knew nowhere near enough about her and yet he knew everything that mattered. He wanted her. She belonged with him.
July 26, 2022
I beta-read this book for the author. These opinions are completely my own but please keep in mind I read the book prior to it being a finished project!
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Hel and Bastion’s ‘relationship’ dynamic is endlessly fun. The world is fun and interesting, but the tension between these two really makes the book. I had a ton of fun and look forward to the rest of the series!
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Hel and Bastion’s ‘relationship’ dynamic is endlessly fun. The world is fun and interesting, but the tension between these two really makes the book. I had a ton of fun and look forward to the rest of the series!
October 10, 2022
I absolutely enjoyed reading this! The plot was easy to follow, and the subplots created by the characters' pasts and motives made it richer. The characters are loveable and consistent even when undergoing a character development. The tension between the characters was very delicious! My spicey rating would be 🌶️🌶️
The world building is unique along with the magical system. I do wish the description for the world and the fantastical creatures were elaborated or highlighted more.
The world building is unique along with the magical system. I do wish the description for the world and the fantastical creatures were elaborated or highlighted more.
September 9, 2024
Series: Soul Court Ascension #1
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Bounty Hunter Hel’s life depends on staying below the radar and passing as human. But when the Lord of the City of Souls discovers she can help him locate someone, he reclaims her bond-debt and brings her into the spotlight. And when dark magic starts infecting the city, they find they only have each other to rely on.
While I found this to be a very interesting story and world, it did take me a while to get into it. Harding-Shaw has created a very interesting world that is partially modern but also apocalyptic with its abandoned structures and monsters. It has elementals, angel-like people, who rule over the humans and have elemental abilities like fire, air, etc. I found the whole concept of this world to be fascinating and really captivating, even if I struggled a bit with the characters.
While I liked both Hel and Bast, I found their relationship to be a bit rough for me to believe. There is a power imbalance between them because Bast owns Hel’s debt and has basically enslaved her to work for him. This debt becomes a main discussion point throughout the whole book and Hel frequently brings up the imbalance. This is an enemy to lovers story and I think the tension between them was good and made sense because of the situation. But, I just struggled with actually seeing these two as successful couple until almost the end of the book, and even then I am not sure how great they will be. They come across as a good working team more than a couple for me in this first book.
I will say, I really liked Hel and how badass she was. She took no shit from Bast and it made me like her a whole lot. I do still want to know more about her heritage and why specifically she is on the run. Bast was a character that I liked more as the book progressed. I didn’t love him for the first 50% or so but by the end I found myself liking him. I am interested in seeing how their relationship goes and if they start feeling like a solid couple to me.
Overall, this was an interesting world and characters. While I didn’t love the romance, I am interested in seeing where it goes and what will happen next after that cliffhanger.
TW: indentured servant; past death of a loved one;
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
Bounty Hunter Hel’s life depends on staying below the radar and passing as human. But when the Lord of the City of Souls discovers she can help him locate someone, he reclaims her bond-debt and brings her into the spotlight. And when dark magic starts infecting the city, they find they only have each other to rely on.
While I found this to be a very interesting story and world, it did take me a while to get into it. Harding-Shaw has created a very interesting world that is partially modern but also apocalyptic with its abandoned structures and monsters. It has elementals, angel-like people, who rule over the humans and have elemental abilities like fire, air, etc. I found the whole concept of this world to be fascinating and really captivating, even if I struggled a bit with the characters.
While I liked both Hel and Bast, I found their relationship to be a bit rough for me to believe. There is a power imbalance between them because Bast owns Hel’s debt and has basically enslaved her to work for him. This debt becomes a main discussion point throughout the whole book and Hel frequently brings up the imbalance. This is an enemy to lovers story and I think the tension between them was good and made sense because of the situation. But, I just struggled with actually seeing these two as successful couple until almost the end of the book, and even then I am not sure how great they will be. They come across as a good working team more than a couple for me in this first book.
I will say, I really liked Hel and how badass she was. She took no shit from Bast and it made me like her a whole lot. I do still want to know more about her heritage and why specifically she is on the run. Bast was a character that I liked more as the book progressed. I didn’t love him for the first 50% or so but by the end I found myself liking him. I am interested in seeing how their relationship goes and if they start feeling like a solid couple to me.
Overall, this was an interesting world and characters. While I didn’t love the romance, I am interested in seeing where it goes and what will happen next after that cliffhanger.
TW: indentured servant; past death of a loved one;
January 5, 2023
4.5 - So good, but should have waited until Shards of Stasis: Soul Court Ascension Book Two is released September 8th, 2023.
October 2, 2022
Do you like enemies-to-lovers, fake dating, sexy winged people, and sexual tension like a raging conflagration? Then City of Souls by Mel Harding-Shaw will sweep you away.
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of City of Souls courtesy of the author, in exchange for an honest review. The book is currently up for preorder, to be released on 9 November.
City of Souls is set in a future Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington, NZ). A cataclysmic merging of worlds happened some years in the past, and the damaged composite city is a dangerous place. Lies must be untangled, mysteries explored, and a new threat to the city faced. Oh, and now there’s a whole heap of sexy winged elementals living in the city, plus one woman who looks human, but isn’t.
The POV characters both have believable wounds that guide their actions and throw a spanner in the works of their developing relationship. Sometimes their thoughts of each other are harsh, but upon a moment’s reflection I could always see how their pasts had led to them thinking that way. If you are a fan of the ‘enemies-to-lovers’ trope then this book is tailor-made for you.
I was lucky enough to read an ARC of City of Souls courtesy of the author, in exchange for an honest review. The book is currently up for preorder, to be released on 9 November.
City of Souls is set in a future Whanganui-a-Tara (Wellington, NZ). A cataclysmic merging of worlds happened some years in the past, and the damaged composite city is a dangerous place. Lies must be untangled, mysteries explored, and a new threat to the city faced. Oh, and now there’s a whole heap of sexy winged elementals living in the city, plus one woman who looks human, but isn’t.
The POV characters both have believable wounds that guide their actions and throw a spanner in the works of their developing relationship. Sometimes their thoughts of each other are harsh, but upon a moment’s reflection I could always see how their pasts had led to them thinking that way. If you are a fan of the ‘enemies-to-lovers’ trope then this book is tailor-made for you.
November 1, 2022
Finished in 24hours. To be honest I chose to read this because I liked the cover that being said I enjoyed it. The verbal sparing between characters is well done, the creatures are interesting and I have not read a book in a world quite like this one. I was drawn in further to whem I realised this was based in NZ. It was a pleasant surprise for me. A fast easy read. Leaving just enough questions unanswered that I'm looking forward to book two and getting some answers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 16, 2022
This was such a fun, easy book to read! Easily finished in an afternoon. It was nice having a book set in my own city, and being able to integrate myself in that world. Looking forward the the next one in 2023!
November 7, 2022
3.5 stars
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for a copy of this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Initial Thoughts
I was intrigued by this debut novel by Mel Harding-Shaw, mostly down to the fact that it's set in an alternate Wellington/New Zealand, which is the country I live in. I appreciated the author's attempt with this urban fantasy.
What's great about this book?
- The world City of Souls is set in is interesting. I liked the concept of the Melding - where the boundary between human and magical realms has fractured. It was somewhat of a post-apocalyptic setting, and I appreciated the author's attempts to use landmarks of Wellington as sites of interest in this book. I do feel there could be more development to deepen the experience, but there is a solid start here that the author can build on in future novels.
- I liked the magical system of the elementals and would like to learn more about it as the series progresses. I also appreciated that the City of Souls is somewhat a haven on earth since the Melding and that Bas and his people are committed to taking care of all those that live there - humans and elementals alike. Whilst it is not free of judgement (perhaps misplaced at times, given Hel's opinions), I did like the feeling the author gave to this city.
- Both Hel and Bastion are interesting enough main characters, and I liked the dual perspective. It did make for an exasperating read at times (see my comments below regarding the romance) when both characters would think or talk about things they could easily share with the other to relieve tension. I did come to like Hel's determination and Bas' benevolence despite the arrogant façade he often wears. When the pair worked together it was really special, and as the book progresses, their strengths together make for a powerful pair.
- I enjoyed the side characters, especially Ra. Everyone played more of a role than as tools for story progression, and for those who lived in Soul Tower, I was pleased with how fleshed out their characters became.
- The book ends on an abrupt cliffhanger, but I’m invested enough to want to know more.
Things I didn't quite enjoy
- The romance is marketed as enemies-to-lovers, but most of this is down to miscommunication. A lot of this could have been resolved but was intentionally used as a plot device to create (unnecessary) conflict between Hel and Bas. I did struggle a little with some aspects of their connection, especially with the lack of consent in marking Hel.
- A lot was going on in this book. Hel is hiding from her father, and Bas is trying to be acknowledged as a court leader worthy of joining the Council, whilst simultaneously trying to clear his name after being framed for killing his father. There's a contagion, and everyone is trying to find the Archivist who should hold the answers they all require, which is why Hel and Bas are working together in the first place. The forced proximity plotline between their fake relationship is also another element, and as you can see, this lists a lot of plots within the book. Whilst the author weaved some together to work in juncture with the other, I felt there was too much to focus on at times, which let the story's natural progression down a little for me.
Final thoughts
I am intrigued by this world, and the feel for a debut novel, this is a good starting point for Me Harding-Shaw. I would be interested to read future novels in this series.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for a copy of this ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Initial Thoughts
I was intrigued by this debut novel by Mel Harding-Shaw, mostly down to the fact that it's set in an alternate Wellington/New Zealand, which is the country I live in. I appreciated the author's attempt with this urban fantasy.
What's great about this book?
- The world City of Souls is set in is interesting. I liked the concept of the Melding - where the boundary between human and magical realms has fractured. It was somewhat of a post-apocalyptic setting, and I appreciated the author's attempts to use landmarks of Wellington as sites of interest in this book. I do feel there could be more development to deepen the experience, but there is a solid start here that the author can build on in future novels.
- I liked the magical system of the elementals and would like to learn more about it as the series progresses. I also appreciated that the City of Souls is somewhat a haven on earth since the Melding and that Bas and his people are committed to taking care of all those that live there - humans and elementals alike. Whilst it is not free of judgement (perhaps misplaced at times, given Hel's opinions), I did like the feeling the author gave to this city.
- Both Hel and Bastion are interesting enough main characters, and I liked the dual perspective. It did make for an exasperating read at times (see my comments below regarding the romance) when both characters would think or talk about things they could easily share with the other to relieve tension. I did come to like Hel's determination and Bas' benevolence despite the arrogant façade he often wears. When the pair worked together it was really special, and as the book progresses, their strengths together make for a powerful pair.
- I enjoyed the side characters, especially Ra. Everyone played more of a role than as tools for story progression, and for those who lived in Soul Tower, I was pleased with how fleshed out their characters became.
- The book ends on an abrupt cliffhanger, but I’m invested enough to want to know more.
Things I didn't quite enjoy
- The romance is marketed as enemies-to-lovers, but most of this is down to miscommunication. A lot of this could have been resolved but was intentionally used as a plot device to create (unnecessary) conflict between Hel and Bas. I did struggle a little with some aspects of their connection, especially with the lack of consent in marking Hel.
- A lot was going on in this book. Hel is hiding from her father, and Bas is trying to be acknowledged as a court leader worthy of joining the Council, whilst simultaneously trying to clear his name after being framed for killing his father. There's a contagion, and everyone is trying to find the Archivist who should hold the answers they all require, which is why Hel and Bas are working together in the first place. The forced proximity plotline between their fake relationship is also another element, and as you can see, this lists a lot of plots within the book. Whilst the author weaved some together to work in juncture with the other, I felt there was too much to focus on at times, which let the story's natural progression down a little for me.
Final thoughts
I am intrigued by this world, and the feel for a debut novel, this is a good starting point for Me Harding-Shaw. I would be interested to read future novels in this series.
October 2, 2022
This debut novel delivers what it promises: dark secrets, sexy wings, and an alternate Wellington. Alternate, because at some point in the past, our known reality melded with another reality, the home of elemental beings (those with the sexy wings). This melding has changed the world and especially the power structures as we know it entirely. While some of the buildings and general locations are still the same, the elementals are now in charge, and the humans are at their mercy. As a Wellingtonian myself, I appreciated the sense of place Mel conveys while simultaneously honouring (and paralleling) the Māori's kaitiakitanga.
If you love fake relationships, forced proximity and a strong streak of possessiveness and protective instinct in your male lead, this book delivers! While I was a bit wary of Hel's and Bast's 'relationship' and the perceived power imbalance at the beginning, I was rooting for them in the end. Without spoiling anything, they are perfect for each other.
In the end, it was the immersive worldbuilding and the captivating plot that kept me turning pages in the second half of the book. There are dangerous monsters (griffins, arachnids, and dragons), fiery tempers (yes, I'm looking at you, Tyson, but also Hel), a wonderful supportive found family, and just enough of a teaser to make me want book 2 now!
If you love fake relationships, forced proximity and a strong streak of possessiveness and protective instinct in your male lead, this book delivers! While I was a bit wary of Hel's and Bast's 'relationship' and the perceived power imbalance at the beginning, I was rooting for them in the end. Without spoiling anything, they are perfect for each other.
In the end, it was the immersive worldbuilding and the captivating plot that kept me turning pages in the second half of the book. There are dangerous monsters (griffins, arachnids, and dragons), fiery tempers (yes, I'm looking at you, Tyson, but also Hel), a wonderful supportive found family, and just enough of a teaser to make me want book 2 now!
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April 28, 2024Gahhhhh. This is another book by a Kiwi author that I really, really, really wanted to like and just... didn't.
My best description of the world would be 'a cross between Nalini Singh's Guildhunters and Ilona Andrews' post-Shift Atlanta, but set in post-Shift (sorry, post-Melding) Wellington instead of the US' And that was - for me - the best thing about the book. I loved the occasional pop of te Reo or Kiwiana that appeared in the story - not to mention all the well-known Wellington landmarks.
But. Hel as a character just did nothing for me - her entire personality seemed to consist of 'angry, snarky rebel', and the whole 'super powerful twenty-something on the run and in hiding from her super powerful father' felt too Kate Daniels (but without Kate's pragmatism or common sense) for me to really get a sense of her as her own character.
Similarly, Bastion basically felt like a copy of Raphael when we first start getting to know him in Angel's Blood, with slightly more depth to him than there is to Hel. Oh, and Ra reminds me of one of Raphael's lieutenants, although I can't remember which one offhand.
I think, all in all, I will give this book a 'this work is not for me' rating. Perhaps if I'd come across it 15-20 years ago when I was going through my 'snarky, angry rebel female protagonist' PNR phase it would have been more to my tastes.
My best description of the world would be 'a cross between Nalini Singh's Guildhunters and Ilona Andrews' post-Shift Atlanta, but set in post-Shift (sorry, post-Melding) Wellington instead of the US' And that was - for me - the best thing about the book. I loved the occasional pop of te Reo or Kiwiana that appeared in the story - not to mention all the well-known Wellington landmarks.
But. Hel as a character just did nothing for me - her entire personality seemed to consist of 'angry, snarky rebel', and the whole 'super powerful twenty-something on the run and in hiding from her super powerful father' felt too Kate Daniels (but without Kate's pragmatism or common sense) for me to really get a sense of her as her own character.
Similarly, Bastion basically felt like a copy of Raphael when we first start getting to know him in Angel's Blood, with slightly more depth to him than there is to Hel. Oh, and Ra reminds me of one of Raphael's lieutenants, although I can't remember which one offhand.
I think, all in all, I will give this book a 'this work is not for me' rating. Perhaps if I'd come across it 15-20 years ago when I was going through my 'snarky, angry rebel female protagonist' PNR phase it would have been more to my tastes.
December 8, 2023
I really wanted to love this. Bast is a good character and I love the misunderstood bad boy thing. But Hel is awful and unlikeable. Her inner dialogue is trash. She is rude - a hypocrite and even a bit xenophobic. She is so singularly focused (or so incredibly dumb) that she doesn't realize she has friends and allies - and has for years.
I just can't care about Hel because she is the worst so I won't continue with this series.
Other than that, side character development is pretty good in this book. World building needs work.
I just can't care about Hel because she is the worst so I won't continue with this series.
Other than that, side character development is pretty good in this book. World building needs work.
November 8, 2022
Why are enemies to lovers romance novels like catnip? Is it the prolonged animosity and sexual tension? Is it the push and pull of a Sam & Diane (young people, google it) ‘will they/won’t they’? Do I really secretly want someone to perform martial arts against at night? Could it be any or all of these things? Possibly. Research is still out.
Although, let's be honest, if I'm referencing Cheers, my body is probably past the point of doing anything strenuous past 11pm (unless it’s, you know, the sexual arts…okay, i just creeped myself out on that one).
This week, I ventured into a contemporary paranormal fantasy based in Wellington, New Zealand. As I don’t know much about New Zealand outside of the Hobbit and Dead Alive, I wasn’t sure how this was all going to mesh, but baby, it did. We have a enemies to lovers, immortal magic, and amazing paranormal steamy romance in Mel Harding-Shaw's, City of Souls (Soul Court Ascension #1).
A little bit of plot…
There’s something about Hel. Something…special. As a indebted bounty hunter Hel hopes each job will bring her closer to freedom - then she’s splitsville. Believed by those around her to be human, she cloaks her magic, attempting to blend in and seem normal.. Well, she's a bit of a killing machine, so, maybe a bit above average normal.
Bastion is the winged elemental tasked with protecting the entire city. A contagion is spreading, the only answers can be found with a mysterious beast that moves undetected by almost everyone…except Hel. Unfortunately for Bastion, he needs Hel’s help (alliteration!) and she is unwilling to give it - unless he can provide her the one thing she wants most in this world.
The Compliment Sandwich
The Top Bun (The Pro)
The World Building
Literally, I can’t even with this book. The descriptions of the cityscape and the war torn and decayed long ago decrepit fixtures are amazing. We start the book traversing through what is described as an abandoned metropolis that nature has begun to reclaim, but it’s no nature that we living in 2022 has ever experienced - giant spider like creatures, huge griffons, hell beasts, literal immortal beings with wings. Conversely, Bastions sanctuary-like tower stands like a beacon in the midst of what I imagine is like Gotham city mixed with the friggin’ Road Warrior.
In addition to the landscapes, Shaw’s description of magic and how it flows is also fantastic:
“The thinnest line of silver ringed his pupil, matching the sparks of magic dancing across his wing surface. Death magic. The same sparks she could still feel twining through her power like a caress.”
Disguised as a human, Hel attempts to control her responses in this first interaction with Bastion. To say that this fails is an understatement. In fact, the melding of their power, in this brief encounter, bothers him. Confused as to why his power is reacting to a human, he demands she meet with him.
“The gentle play of their magic against each other that Hel hadn’t noticed had slipped from her control turned jagged as she watched his anger transform to something darker”.
The more they work together the stronger their magics entwine. Theres so much more I would love to quote but I don’t want to give too much away. Not that this is a very ‘twisty’ story, I just think that you should discover certain aspects of their magic and why they resonate so well on your own!
Get off my back, people!
The Meat (The Con)
I’m going to make this short and to the point. The buildup is great but I needed something to hold me over before the event finally comes (lol). If you know, you know. Still, effin hot.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
Hel and Bastion’s Chemistry
The connection between these two characters is fraught with animosity and sexual tension. They reminded me a little of Bones and Catherine from Halfway to the Grave. As with Bones, Bastion needs the hellion of a heroine to perform a dangerous job, but can’t keep his hands off of her, which leads to much self-flagellation (mhmmm). Hel is similar to Catherine in the sense that she is forced to work with her sworn enemy and yet can’t stop her hands from wandering too. Wandering hands are the devils playthings y’all. I don’t think I got that adage correct, I don’t care. Print up the new shirt - post it on Threadless.
Although, let's be honest, if I'm referencing Cheers, my body is probably past the point of doing anything strenuous past 11pm (unless it’s, you know, the sexual arts…okay, i just creeped myself out on that one).
This week, I ventured into a contemporary paranormal fantasy based in Wellington, New Zealand. As I don’t know much about New Zealand outside of the Hobbit and Dead Alive, I wasn’t sure how this was all going to mesh, but baby, it did. We have a enemies to lovers, immortal magic, and amazing paranormal steamy romance in Mel Harding-Shaw's, City of Souls (Soul Court Ascension #1).
A little bit of plot…
There’s something about Hel. Something…special. As a indebted bounty hunter Hel hopes each job will bring her closer to freedom - then she’s splitsville. Believed by those around her to be human, she cloaks her magic, attempting to blend in and seem normal.. Well, she's a bit of a killing machine, so, maybe a bit above average normal.
Bastion is the winged elemental tasked with protecting the entire city. A contagion is spreading, the only answers can be found with a mysterious beast that moves undetected by almost everyone…except Hel. Unfortunately for Bastion, he needs Hel’s help (alliteration!) and she is unwilling to give it - unless he can provide her the one thing she wants most in this world.
The Compliment Sandwich
The Top Bun (The Pro)
The World Building
Literally, I can’t even with this book. The descriptions of the cityscape and the war torn and decayed long ago decrepit fixtures are amazing. We start the book traversing through what is described as an abandoned metropolis that nature has begun to reclaim, but it’s no nature that we living in 2022 has ever experienced - giant spider like creatures, huge griffons, hell beasts, literal immortal beings with wings. Conversely, Bastions sanctuary-like tower stands like a beacon in the midst of what I imagine is like Gotham city mixed with the friggin’ Road Warrior.
“The humans used to call it the Majestic Centre and it was the tallest building in the city, tall enough that it should have succumbed to aerial attack long ago. Instead, the elementals had saved it from destruction in the first hours after the Melding, reinforcing every pane of glass with the impossibly strong and intricate metalwork only their magic could produce until it looked like a soaring sculpture of leadlight stained glass. At night, the coloured lights that tipped those posts made it look like jewels on its crown. Under attack, the entire building would light up like a beacon of death magic”
In addition to the landscapes, Shaw’s description of magic and how it flows is also fantastic:
“The thinnest line of silver ringed his pupil, matching the sparks of magic dancing across his wing surface. Death magic. The same sparks she could still feel twining through her power like a caress.”
Disguised as a human, Hel attempts to control her responses in this first interaction with Bastion. To say that this fails is an understatement. In fact, the melding of their power, in this brief encounter, bothers him. Confused as to why his power is reacting to a human, he demands she meet with him.
“The gentle play of their magic against each other that Hel hadn’t noticed had slipped from her control turned jagged as she watched his anger transform to something darker”.
The more they work together the stronger their magics entwine. Theres so much more I would love to quote but I don’t want to give too much away. Not that this is a very ‘twisty’ story, I just think that you should discover certain aspects of their magic and why they resonate so well on your own!
Get off my back, people!
The Meat (The Con)
I’m going to make this short and to the point. The buildup is great but I needed something to hold me over before the event finally comes (lol). If you know, you know. Still, effin hot.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
Hel and Bastion’s Chemistry
The connection between these two characters is fraught with animosity and sexual tension. They reminded me a little of Bones and Catherine from Halfway to the Grave. As with Bones, Bastion needs the hellion of a heroine to perform a dangerous job, but can’t keep his hands off of her, which leads to much self-flagellation (mhmmm). Hel is similar to Catherine in the sense that she is forced to work with her sworn enemy and yet can’t stop her hands from wandering too. Wandering hands are the devils playthings y’all. I don’t think I got that adage correct, I don’t care. Print up the new shirt - post it on Threadless.
“Just kiss me already, necromancer.”
He lost his remaining control as she gripped his hair tight enough to sting and pulled him to her, crushing her lips to his as a week of sexual frustration boiled over. Power surged between them through their connection along with a rush of shared sensation. He could feel the same tension he was suffering, the same unwelcome lust, mirrored in her essence.
I’ve said it on the podcast, and I’ll say it again. You get that one crazy person you know you shouldn’t be boinking but you know it’s gonna be the best/kinkiest sex of your life so you go for it. Then, voila! Once you hit it, you’ll never quit it. Now imagine that both you and the other person have crazy magical powers, one of you can literally manipulate souls, and you'll understand the magnetism. But alas, you hate one another. But you want to bite each other. But you want to throw him off a roof. But her scent intoxicates him. Ugh, hate boners are the worst!
I was literally trying to think of another tv couple with this type of bellicosity, and I just kept regurgitating 80’s programming. I am either too old or don’t watch enough tv..or both. Spike and Buffy? Does that work? That’s at least late 90’s early 00’s.
Lastly, Bastion gifts something to Hel to publicly display his claim (I didn’t mention they have to be in a fake relationship) that when it is revealed, I literally gasped. I won’t give it away, but it weaves their magics together even further and provides an even stronger connection between their life forces. You will love it. Ugh, I’m thinking about it and getting verklempt.
Anywho, to close out, I would definitely recommend. Be aware that it is book 1 of 3 so there is a cliffhanger. I immediately wanted to delve into the next one - but alas, I will wait with everyone else. I am in fidgity anticipation as to how the Hel-ion saga continues.
October 29, 2022
Well.
I don’t know what I expected, but it wasn’t this! City of Souls is FUN. It’s got the tension and danger of the Kate Daniels series and the complexity of Crescent City politics, and yet I think I preferred it to both of them.
The Aotearoa setting is fresh and works beautifully for the outpost of elemental magic. Mel Harding-Shaw trusts her readers and gives enough detail to make us suspend our disbelief, but doesn’t leave us drowning in exposition. The danger is real and she has woven magic and folklore with the real world in an original way that had me totally absorbed. The use of Māori language and concepts was also beautifully integrated and never felt tokenistic - it worked well for the world created here.
The tension and attraction between Hel and Bast was great. They were consistent in their characterisation and their distrust of each other (and themselves) was well-founded. If I have one critique, it’s that I would have liked a little more development from Hel; given everything that happened in the plot, it would have been great to see her be a touch more reflective. She felt static in many ways. That said, it feels like this will come in the second volume - I certainly hope so, anyway.
I was surprised by how into this I got. The plot was relatively straightforward but was balanced with intrigue and surprises that kept me going. I was actually caught off guard by the conclusion, because I was so into it. I can’t wait to read the next instalment, and am only sad I have a year to wait!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don’t know what I expected, but it wasn’t this! City of Souls is FUN. It’s got the tension and danger of the Kate Daniels series and the complexity of Crescent City politics, and yet I think I preferred it to both of them.
The Aotearoa setting is fresh and works beautifully for the outpost of elemental magic. Mel Harding-Shaw trusts her readers and gives enough detail to make us suspend our disbelief, but doesn’t leave us drowning in exposition. The danger is real and she has woven magic and folklore with the real world in an original way that had me totally absorbed. The use of Māori language and concepts was also beautifully integrated and never felt tokenistic - it worked well for the world created here.
The tension and attraction between Hel and Bast was great. They were consistent in their characterisation and their distrust of each other (and themselves) was well-founded. If I have one critique, it’s that I would have liked a little more development from Hel; given everything that happened in the plot, it would have been great to see her be a touch more reflective. She felt static in many ways. That said, it feels like this will come in the second volume - I certainly hope so, anyway.
I was surprised by how into this I got. The plot was relatively straightforward but was balanced with intrigue and surprises that kept me going. I was actually caught off guard by the conclusion, because I was so into it. I can’t wait to read the next instalment, and am only sad I have a year to wait!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! The world was so interesting, and Bast and Hel were really compelling main characters. You just can't help but root for them even if you want to just smack some sense into them sometimes.
Hel was a really exciting FMC to follow through the book. She was so feisty and strong and brave, and I loved how she refused to back down from a fight. She stayed true to herself throughout the book and was never a shirking damsel-in-distress.
The romance was by far the most exciting storyline in this book. It was truly a will-they-won't-they and one of the best written enemies-to-lovers romances I've read in a while. The sexual tension and chemistry between Hel and Bast was off-the-charts. Although there was technically only one steamy scene, nearly every interaction between the two of them felt intimate/spicy in some way, which is a testament to the author's skill.
However, I do wish that the world-building had been more fleshed out. Because the world is so unique and doesn't follow basic fantasy guidelines, it would have been nice to better understand the different creatures, worlds, and character backstories. Some aspects of the story were hard to follow because I found myself questioning what the rules of the world even were.
Overall, this was an excellent read! I truly enjoyed Hel and Bast both as individuals and as a couple, and I am excited to see where the story goes in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hel was a really exciting FMC to follow through the book. She was so feisty and strong and brave, and I loved how she refused to back down from a fight. She stayed true to herself throughout the book and was never a shirking damsel-in-distress.
The romance was by far the most exciting storyline in this book. It was truly a will-they-won't-they and one of the best written enemies-to-lovers romances I've read in a while. The sexual tension and chemistry between Hel and Bast was off-the-charts. Although there was technically only one steamy scene, nearly every interaction between the two of them felt intimate/spicy in some way, which is a testament to the author's skill.
However, I do wish that the world-building had been more fleshed out. Because the world is so unique and doesn't follow basic fantasy guidelines, it would have been nice to better understand the different creatures, worlds, and character backstories. Some aspects of the story were hard to follow because I found myself questioning what the rules of the world even were.
Overall, this was an excellent read! I truly enjoyed Hel and Bast both as individuals and as a couple, and I am excited to see where the story goes in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 12, 2024
I enjoyed the world-building in the story! It's set almost in a futuristic/apocalyptic setting where different dimensions/realms have melded together creating a new world order where elementals have power and humans do their best to exist. I'm looking forward to the next books that explore the dimensions more!
Hel was a complex character, even if her backstory of "I have to hide my identity otherwise people will kill me, so I can't make any friends," is not exactly something new. Though, the author does make Hel quite delightful otherwise! She is an intelligent character with her own baggage to deal with and when some pompous soul weaver comes along and ruins her plans for hiding… She rolls with the punches and throws quite a few of her own.
Bast has had to deal with a crappy hand dealt in life, but he has thrived despite being attacked constantly by assassins sent by his lovely brother and being accused of murdering his father.
Diving into the complex world of elementals and their politics was absolutely fun! The story did start a little slow for me, but it picked up quickly with plenty of fantastic secondary characters. I enjoyed the ending portion, with the twists and turns and the set up for book two.
There's a bit of violence, maiming, swearing, and a little steam. It ends on a little bit of a cliff hanger.
Hel was a complex character, even if her backstory of "I have to hide my identity otherwise people will kill me, so I can't make any friends," is not exactly something new. Though, the author does make Hel quite delightful otherwise! She is an intelligent character with her own baggage to deal with and when some pompous soul weaver comes along and ruins her plans for hiding… She rolls with the punches and throws quite a few of her own.
Bast has had to deal with a crappy hand dealt in life, but he has thrived despite being attacked constantly by assassins sent by his lovely brother and being accused of murdering his father.
Diving into the complex world of elementals and their politics was absolutely fun! The story did start a little slow for me, but it picked up quickly with plenty of fantastic secondary characters. I enjoyed the ending portion, with the twists and turns and the set up for book two.
There's a bit of violence, maiming, swearing, and a little steam. It ends on a little bit of a cliff hanger.
December 17, 2023
Dropped 2023
🚮🚫
I don’t like how they both have such misconceptions of each other and refuse the see the signs that are pointed to a different image they already had of each other. I do like how strong the h is and how she fights and trains. Also it’s taking me a really long time to finish the book. Like the story is interesting but it’s not quite engaging enough for me that would want to binge or finish it ASAP. Ok I gave up, this is so boring, I tried to be keep coming back to it to finish but holy fuck it’s like pulling teeth. There’s a world don’t get me wrong, but it just is, no real rich world building that would paint a picture for me. It’s a waste since this could’ve been such an interesting world to get lost in for a time. The worst part is the H was supposed to be this big bad but of course he’s misunderstood, ugh.
🚮🚫
I don’t like how they both have such misconceptions of each other and refuse the see the signs that are pointed to a different image they already had of each other. I do like how strong the h is and how she fights and trains. Also it’s taking me a really long time to finish the book. Like the story is interesting but it’s not quite engaging enough for me that would want to binge or finish it ASAP. Ok I gave up, this is so boring, I tried to be keep coming back to it to finish but holy fuck it’s like pulling teeth. There’s a world don’t get me wrong, but it just is, no real rich world building that would paint a picture for me. It’s a waste since this could’ve been such an interesting world to get lost in for a time. The worst part is the H was supposed to be this big bad but of course he’s misunderstood, ugh.
November 26, 2022
The bad thing is, it very much follows the template of Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series.
The good thing is, it very much follows the template of Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series. Also a definite shoutout to Nalini Singh's Guild Hunters series.
That is to say, the writing and overall story were pretty well executed, although some things were telegraphed for far too long - I'm not a fan of main characters being willfully oblivious about things that should be obvious given their supposed intelligence. Hel is a bit immature and whiny/petty, especially at the beginning.
Regarding Kate Daniels... Well, the descriptions of the world, the city, the monsters, and while team Andrews obviously weren't the first to do the whole "powerful daughter hiding from even more powerful big bad daddy" storyline, it's very hard to ignore the parallels. I felt like there's definitely a lot inspired by Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter series too that extend beyond just the obvious, like how there are hierarchical winged flying beings in charge of a city. The "found family risking life and death to clean up the city's monsters" couriers sound more or less like the Guild Hunters, or if you're looking back at Kate Daniel's, the Guild. The way the souls speak and operate sounded a lot like the Legion, the pomp and circumstance with the elemental leaders is similar to the Cadre, even Aliya's entire character is very Michaela, except without the attempt to build a bit more depth. As annoying as Michaela was with her super seduction and beauty goddess routine & sleeping with the rest of the Cadre, at least she wasn't completely a 2D character with the introduction of her protectiveness towards children and so on. Aliya was just a cartoon character of an antagonist, at least in this first book.
Soul Tower was interesting but also, to me at least, not that new. If anyone has ever seen the Dominion series on Syfy, which features an all powerful angel (Michael) running one of the last surviving cities on Earth after an apocalypse while dealing with politics and relationships with the rebel factions of the human leaders, Soul Tower is described much the same way. Hydroponic gardens to feed the city, the angel/winged being at the top overseeing everything while his people have a love/hate relationship with their savior, etc.
Overall, there were just a few too many little things that I felt were a little too trite (at this point). Every book about winged beings from Sharon Shinn's Archangel to this current iteration in City of Souls has featured the flirty touching of inner wings. Half of them have something about wing color changes and endless descriptions of how pretty the colors can be. I've completely lost track of how many empowered, living mating/bonding marks or tattoos exist in urban fantasy.
All that said, at least what this book tried to do was pretty well done, relative to most of the other urban fantasy series out there. If you enjoyed any of the other series or shows I've mentioned, I do think you'll end up enjoying this one. Why not? It's more of the same/similar. It's just that there's some discomfort involved in how many similarities there are, but I'm hoping that because this is a first book in a series, the overall series grows to have some more of its own unique traits and memorable world-building characteristics as we go along.
The good thing is, it very much follows the template of Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series. Also a definite shoutout to Nalini Singh's Guild Hunters series.
That is to say, the writing and overall story were pretty well executed, although some things were telegraphed for far too long - I'm not a fan of main characters being willfully oblivious about things that should be obvious given their supposed intelligence. Hel is a bit immature and whiny/petty, especially at the beginning.
Regarding Kate Daniels... Well, the descriptions of the world, the city, the monsters, and while team Andrews obviously weren't the first to do the whole "powerful daughter hiding from even more powerful big bad daddy" storyline, it's very hard to ignore the parallels. I felt like there's definitely a lot inspired by Nalini Singh's Guild Hunter series too that extend beyond just the obvious, like how there are hierarchical winged flying beings in charge of a city. The "found family risking life and death to clean up the city's monsters" couriers sound more or less like the Guild Hunters, or if you're looking back at Kate Daniel's, the Guild. The way the souls speak and operate sounded a lot like the Legion, the pomp and circumstance with the elemental leaders is similar to the Cadre, even Aliya's entire character is very Michaela, except without the attempt to build a bit more depth. As annoying as Michaela was with her super seduction and beauty goddess routine & sleeping with the rest of the Cadre, at least she wasn't completely a 2D character with the introduction of her protectiveness towards children and so on. Aliya was just a cartoon character of an antagonist, at least in this first book.
Soul Tower was interesting but also, to me at least, not that new. If anyone has ever seen the Dominion series on Syfy, which features an all powerful angel (Michael) running one of the last surviving cities on Earth after an apocalypse while dealing with politics and relationships with the rebel factions of the human leaders, Soul Tower is described much the same way. Hydroponic gardens to feed the city, the angel/winged being at the top overseeing everything while his people have a love/hate relationship with their savior, etc.
Overall, there were just a few too many little things that I felt were a little too trite (at this point). Every book about winged beings from Sharon Shinn's Archangel to this current iteration in City of Souls has featured the flirty touching of inner wings. Half of them have something about wing color changes and endless descriptions of how pretty the colors can be. I've completely lost track of how many empowered, living mating/bonding marks or tattoos exist in urban fantasy.
All that said, at least what this book tried to do was pretty well done, relative to most of the other urban fantasy series out there. If you enjoyed any of the other series or shows I've mentioned, I do think you'll end up enjoying this one. Why not? It's more of the same/similar. It's just that there's some discomfort involved in how many similarities there are, but I'm hoping that because this is a first book in a series, the overall series grows to have some more of its own unique traits and memorable world-building characteristics as we go along.
November 4, 2022
ARC from author - NO Spoilers in review! Bk 1 in a trilogy and ends on a little cliffy!
Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Enemy to Lover, Forced Proximity with dual POV chapters.
Slow burn with medium spice and all romance between adults.
Firstly, I loved this book from the start! Reminded me of why Urban Fantasy was my first bookcase filler and that I need to read more again.
Found the world building very atmospheric, the mix of reality and fantasy very believable with a smorgasbord of monsters. Loved the interaction of Souls in particular, sense of Honour and their secret keeping.
Supporting characters are well developed and add value increasingly to the story as we read.
Hel, is our prickly female Bounty Hunter with a sometimes reluctant heart of gold, knock her down and she'll come back fighting but has secrets up the wazoo! Some divulged by the end of the book but I think most of which we have yet to discover.
Bastion, our winged Necromancer, strong, protective but cloaking a vulnerability that pulled at my heart strings - oh dear another book boyfriend added to my harem! His loneliness struck me too but who can he trust.
All the time Hel and Bast are battling forces and enemies unseen they have a love hate relationship which is superbly penned and draws you in.
All characters have depth, plots strong with intrigue, some violence and mystery and a huge plus for me; absolutely no filler waffle! Story flows and words all pertinent to the Tale.
The dual POV gives a deeper understanding of why Hel and Bast are the way they are and I hope more revelations will be made the further along in the trilogy we go.
I was fully immersed and found myself reading the last line, to say I groaned was an understatement! Cannot wait for Book 2, need to know what happens.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Enemy to Lover, Forced Proximity with dual POV chapters.
Slow burn with medium spice and all romance between adults.
Firstly, I loved this book from the start! Reminded me of why Urban Fantasy was my first bookcase filler and that I need to read more again.
Found the world building very atmospheric, the mix of reality and fantasy very believable with a smorgasbord of monsters. Loved the interaction of Souls in particular, sense of Honour and their secret keeping.
Supporting characters are well developed and add value increasingly to the story as we read.
Hel, is our prickly female Bounty Hunter with a sometimes reluctant heart of gold, knock her down and she'll come back fighting but has secrets up the wazoo! Some divulged by the end of the book but I think most of which we have yet to discover.
Bastion, our winged Necromancer, strong, protective but cloaking a vulnerability that pulled at my heart strings - oh dear another book boyfriend added to my harem! His loneliness struck me too but who can he trust.
All the time Hel and Bast are battling forces and enemies unseen they have a love hate relationship which is superbly penned and draws you in.
All characters have depth, plots strong with intrigue, some violence and mystery and a huge plus for me; absolutely no filler waffle! Story flows and words all pertinent to the Tale.
The dual POV gives a deeper understanding of why Hel and Bast are the way they are and I hope more revelations will be made the further along in the trilogy we go.
I was fully immersed and found myself reading the last line, to say I groaned was an understatement! Cannot wait for Book 2, need to know what happens.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 13, 2023
📚✨ Book Review: "City of Souls" - A Mesmerizing Tale of Magic and Love ✨📖
Hello, fellow book enthusiasts! 🌟📚
Prepare to be enchanted as we explore the captivating world of "City of Souls" by the talented Mel Harding-Shaw. This book is more than a story; it's a spellbinding experience! 🪄🔮
In this beautifully titled masterpiece, you'll enter a realm where necromancers, elemental courts, and hidden powers collide, all while embarking on a thrilling journey from foes to lovers. The story unfolds in a city where secrets hold the key to life and death. Our fearless heroine, Hel, and the enigmatic Bastion, Lord of the City of Souls, take center stage.
When their paths cross and Bastion uncovers Hel's hidden power, sparks fly. They strike a daring deal involving a fake relationship, and it's a sizzling adventure you won't forget! 🔥 But beneath the simmering tension, dark magic threatens their world.
Mel Harding-Shaw's world-building is breathtaking, making you feel like you're strolling the enchanted streets of the city alongside the characters. The depth of their personalities and intricate relationships keep you turning pages, craving more. 😍
What sets "City of Souls" apart is the enthralling chemistry between Hel and Bastion. Their banter is sharp, and their journey from foes to lovers is a slow-burning romance that sets your heart racing. 💏💞
With plot twists and surprises, the story keeps you on the edge of your seat. And that ending? It's a cliffhanger that leaves you yearning for the next installment in the Soul Court Ascension trilogy!
For a mesmerizing paranormal romance with urban fantasy elements, look no further. "City of Souls" promises to transport you to a world where love and magic intertwine in the most captivating way.
Happy reading, fellow book dragons! 🌟📚🐉
Mysterious Shy
Hello, fellow book enthusiasts! 🌟📚
Prepare to be enchanted as we explore the captivating world of "City of Souls" by the talented Mel Harding-Shaw. This book is more than a story; it's a spellbinding experience! 🪄🔮
In this beautifully titled masterpiece, you'll enter a realm where necromancers, elemental courts, and hidden powers collide, all while embarking on a thrilling journey from foes to lovers. The story unfolds in a city where secrets hold the key to life and death. Our fearless heroine, Hel, and the enigmatic Bastion, Lord of the City of Souls, take center stage.
When their paths cross and Bastion uncovers Hel's hidden power, sparks fly. They strike a daring deal involving a fake relationship, and it's a sizzling adventure you won't forget! 🔥 But beneath the simmering tension, dark magic threatens their world.
Mel Harding-Shaw's world-building is breathtaking, making you feel like you're strolling the enchanted streets of the city alongside the characters. The depth of their personalities and intricate relationships keep you turning pages, craving more. 😍
What sets "City of Souls" apart is the enthralling chemistry between Hel and Bastion. Their banter is sharp, and their journey from foes to lovers is a slow-burning romance that sets your heart racing. 💏💞
With plot twists and surprises, the story keeps you on the edge of your seat. And that ending? It's a cliffhanger that leaves you yearning for the next installment in the Soul Court Ascension trilogy!
For a mesmerizing paranormal romance with urban fantasy elements, look no further. "City of Souls" promises to transport you to a world where love and magic intertwine in the most captivating way.
Happy reading, fellow book dragons! 🌟📚🐉
Mysterious Shy
September 24, 2022
Hel was being hunted and all she wanted to do was stay in the shadows. Too bad her special set of skills are required to help save the world. Hiding behind the shell of a human, she has to straddle the line between compassion and self-preservation... and resist the charms of a certain necromancer.
Bastion was everything I love about a hero. Strong and gorgeous, fiercely protective and incredibly loyal, and just a little bit broken, he was such a joy to read about. I kept turning the pages for more of him. For more of the world he inhabited. For more information of what made him such a unique force of nature.
The author did such an amazing job with the worldbuilding. It was easy to see the cities and landscapes she tried to capture. I was equally enthralled and terrified by the creatures of this strange world and all of the people who lived there. I'm still not clear on the lore, but I believe that's something that would work out as the series continues.
Fantastical imaginings, an evil slowly encroaching its way across the planet, and a burgeoning love make for one heck of a story!
Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat - 2 out of 5
Find more on the blog
September 30, 2022
Hel, on the run from her dad…the Devil?
Bastion, the city leader, protector against the elementals. Wanted Hel to help against a spreading contagion by capturing the archivist.
• Fake Marriage
• Secret Identity
• Protector
• Bonding
• This is not a standalone, but there is no cliffhanger.
• Steamy at the end 🌶🌶🌶
My favorite quote: “You walked out on the lord of our city, got into a fight and killed someone, walked out on the lord again, ignored all my calls, and now it’s dawn and you still haven’t come home. So, no. You’re not allowed out right now.”
Hel was a spitball. Despite her indenturement, she was recalcitrant towards the ones who hold her contract, and Bastion, protector of the city, took over the contract. This was not a match made in heaven (LOL). I enjoyed their interaction a lot. Hel was constantly on a warpath, but she occasionally acted in defense of humans, and Bastion, despite his Necromancer infamy, was the ultimate guardian figure.
As part of his contract, Helaine was asked to “hide” by becoming his wife-of-the-month. Yeah, she was not pleased.
The romance did not overwhelm the plot, which I loved. There is a lot of action as Hel tries to negotiate a back-stabbing world of elemental rulers, a MIA but voracious librarian, and her own father. Seriously cool.
Bastion, the city leader, protector against the elementals. Wanted Hel to help against a spreading contagion by capturing the archivist.
• Fake Marriage
• Secret Identity
• Protector
• Bonding
• This is not a standalone, but there is no cliffhanger.
• Steamy at the end 🌶🌶🌶
My favorite quote: “You walked out on the lord of our city, got into a fight and killed someone, walked out on the lord again, ignored all my calls, and now it’s dawn and you still haven’t come home. So, no. You’re not allowed out right now.”
Hel was a spitball. Despite her indenturement, she was recalcitrant towards the ones who hold her contract, and Bastion, protector of the city, took over the contract. This was not a match made in heaven (LOL). I enjoyed their interaction a lot. Hel was constantly on a warpath, but she occasionally acted in defense of humans, and Bastion, despite his Necromancer infamy, was the ultimate guardian figure.
As part of his contract, Helaine was asked to “hide” by becoming his wife-of-the-month. Yeah, she was not pleased.
The romance did not overwhelm the plot, which I loved. There is a lot of action as Hel tries to negotiate a back-stabbing world of elemental rulers, a MIA but voracious librarian, and her own father. Seriously cool.
September 26, 2022
I received a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review. I had previously read the prequel which I had loved so much, I decided to read Soul Court Ascension, and I was delighted. I have found a new author and for someone who reads as much as I do that is such a treat. Better still the author is from our neck of the woods (Australia and New Zealand have a very strong connection and are neighbours). I loved the FMC, she is a strong survivor who genuinely cares and has empathy. Initially, I was angry with Bast, because he seemed quite heavy handed with trying to get her to help, but he certainly redeemed himself. There are still many secrets left: Who and what is Hel? The ending wasn't too much of a cliffhanger (which I appreciated) but rather you are left wanting more answers to the story and her background. The additional characters were great. In particular, I loved Ra. He was funny, incisive and protective of his friends. And there was some romance potential for him too, which was really well done. There is plenty of action and you can feel the connection growing stronger between Bast and Hel - their chemistry was off the charts. I can't wait for the next instalment!
October 3, 2022
Got this ARC from booksirens!
First book im reading from this author abd my holy pancakes what a book this is.
Im in love with Bast myself he has this though mean monster aura around him but hes everything but that.
Helaine/Hel is amazing too she acts like she doesnt care but is ruled by her fear and sometimes being to caring.
Being elementals and powers was so much fun to read about, but am stil a little confused about the 'melding' couldnt pinpoint what it was exactly but it may be just a me thing (which it most likely is to be honost)
The story is witty, snarky, funny and hot and it truely goes from enemies to lovers altho i dont think they was truely enemies more like unwilling, unfriendly and big dislike for one another.
It has a cool new look to beings with wings and magic, ive not found a book like this and that is not an easy feat.
So many times i felt like throwing my tablet because i gotten upset by how Hel was towards Bast but other moments i howled with laughter or ended up a mess of giggles even at one point i was so close to tears and was mad at the author but by gosh was it not beautiful! And then that darn cliffhanger i did love love that ALOT means to me that i cant wait for the next book.
First book im reading from this author abd my holy pancakes what a book this is.
Im in love with Bast myself he has this though mean monster aura around him but hes everything but that.
Helaine/Hel is amazing too she acts like she doesnt care but is ruled by her fear and sometimes being to caring.
Being elementals and powers was so much fun to read about, but am stil a little confused about the 'melding' couldnt pinpoint what it was exactly but it may be just a me thing (which it most likely is to be honost)
The story is witty, snarky, funny and hot and it truely goes from enemies to lovers altho i dont think they was truely enemies more like unwilling, unfriendly and big dislike for one another.
It has a cool new look to beings with wings and magic, ive not found a book like this and that is not an easy feat.
So many times i felt like throwing my tablet because i gotten upset by how Hel was towards Bast but other moments i howled with laughter or ended up a mess of giggles even at one point i was so close to tears and was mad at the author but by gosh was it not beautiful! And then that darn cliffhanger i did love love that ALOT means to me that i cant wait for the next book.
October 6, 2022
With dark secrets, necromancers, and hounds from hell, this book is a perfect Fall read!
First off, I love the name Hel Hel is a strong female main character who actually has emotional depth and isn't just a naive love interest. I loved to see her viewpoints change (and her ability to admit when she misjudged) and her capacity for empathy - even for those who she's grown up to believe are her enemies.
A not-really-human masquerading as a human (while on the run from her dad who might just be the devil) matched with...
Bast is a necromancer (sorry, soulweaver) just trying to do what's best for his people and to show that he isn't as evil as the world perceives him to be.
I loved Bast, and the contrast between him and his best friend - Bast's dark, more withholding personality compared to the sunshiney, upbeat Ra.
I loved watching them dismantle each other's secrets and navigate the political landscape of the Elementals. This book has a slightly darker feel to the setting, making it a great read for the Fall season (or any season really).
*Disclaimer: I was generously provided with an ARC from the author. However, all viewpoints expressed above are my own!
First off, I love the name Hel Hel is a strong female main character who actually has emotional depth and isn't just a naive love interest. I loved to see her viewpoints change (and her ability to admit when she misjudged) and her capacity for empathy - even for those who she's grown up to believe are her enemies.
A not-really-human masquerading as a human (while on the run from her dad who might just be the devil) matched with...
Bast is a necromancer (sorry, soulweaver) just trying to do what's best for his people and to show that he isn't as evil as the world perceives him to be.
I loved Bast, and the contrast between him and his best friend - Bast's dark, more withholding personality compared to the sunshiney, upbeat Ra.
I loved watching them dismantle each other's secrets and navigate the political landscape of the Elementals. This book has a slightly darker feel to the setting, making it a great read for the Fall season (or any season really).
*Disclaimer: I was generously provided with an ARC from the author. However, all viewpoints expressed above are my own!
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