This is the most effort I have ever put into a book review. I endeavoured to be as constructively honest as possible. Especially for you Lorraine, as I know you wanted honest reviews, from friends as well as strangers. Here goes.....
Soul Reunion is a story of how passionate lovers, separated for two centuries, are reunited. The cause of their separation is revealed and overcome, while making new friends and discovering unknown enemies. Full of swooning romance, sizzling passion and gripping action, it is definitely a compelling page turner. I nearly called in sick to work, just so I could finish it uninterrupted!
The first third of this book is pretty much solid romance, then the nitty gritty of the story kicks in and it gets compellingly good. When it comes to plot and writing style, Ms Sears is definitely skilled. She doesn’t give away too much, too quickly, just enough to keep you compelled to turn the next page at a consistently perfect pace. The story and little connections are extremely well thought out and developed. Time and care has obviously been taken to create an original paranormal setting, complete with rich lore and uniquely conceived beings.
The main characters, Maya and Goran, are fully fleshed out, in more ways than one! On a much smaller scale, the supporting cast are also clearly defined, I suspect in preparation for their (hopefully) bigger roles in the spotlight in future instalments of the Soul Taker series. However, Maya and Goran weren’t my favourite characters. I’m drawn to Paul, probably because he seems more buttoned up than the rest, and takes his role in this realm seriously, which I appreciate. I also liked Elvi, young, shy, and magically skilled. As I read, I imagined them together, so I am pleased to find out that is on the cards. Not pleased I have to wait until book four though!
I think my favourite part is when we meet the pure vampire brothers Kane, Sable and Bay. Their contribution to the story adds another dimension and further character interest. Shows the Soul Taker race coming out of their own bubble and connecting with another race, keeping the reader interested.
On a personal note, Paranormal Romance isn’t a genre I’ve read in a long while, and after beginning Soul Reunion I remembered why I stopped. Para-Rom is very much a two sided coin for me. While I love all things paranormal and supernatural, I’m not a fan of romance, especially this level of romance. All that swooning, blushing, sighing and going weak at the knees simply makes me (personally) cringe. But that is just me. I fully appreciate there are many out there who love it! The success of Mills and Boon clearly illustrates the fact. Don’t get me wrong, I am not offended by sex scenes – au contraire! Excessive emotions getting in the way of passion just does my head in. Yes, I would describe myself as a practical, independent person who mostly keeps her emotions in check! So, for the romance part of this book I give it 2 stars, purely because it’s not my cup of tea. However, the paranormal element gets 4 stars. These paranormal beings are a refreshing change from the currently over popular vampires, were-creatures, fairies and witches. They are the reason I persevered through the romance, and will read the whole series. I’m especially interested how this paranormal world and its lore will develop.
An excellent first novel from Ms Sears. I would, however, gently suggest a little more input from the editor, and definitely more proof-reading. I was disappointed with the occasional, out of place word, or typo. Me? A perfectionist? Never! There were occasions where I felt let down by the adjectives used. English is a rich and colourful language. Strive for eloquence and paint masterpieces with words, similes and metaphors! However, I was too engrossed in the story to be bothered to stop, find a pen and paper, and make a note of these small blips in the flow. All part of the self-publishing learning curve.
And I love the idea that magic tastes fizzy……