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The Soulmate Seekers #1
Cupid's Compass
Some say it’s a blessing. Others swear it’s a curse.
Cupid’s compass is the enchanted tattoo that links soulmates and reveals when they will first meet. Most seekers, such as fifteen-year-old Lacey Baker, are thrilled to wake up to their sealed fate, but not everyone’s future is clear.
Her best friend is cursed by a compass that never moves but she can’t figure out why. Her mother’s soulmate link spontaneously changes, leaving their family in shambles. And Lacey’s soulmate. . . that’s another story.
A city away, Jaylynn Clare has a different problem. After a haunting prediction from a local psychic, her life becomes a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Promised unavoidable tragedy if she meets her linked partner, she takes it upon herself to run at all costs. But can fate be avoided, or only prolonged?
In a mad dash of love, lies, and long-forgotten curses, seekers across the globe weave together in this heart-wrenching narrative of entangled soulmates.
Cupid’s compass is the enchanted tattoo that links soulmates and reveals when they will first meet. Most seekers, such as fifteen-year-old Lacey Baker, are thrilled to wake up to their sealed fate, but not everyone’s future is clear.
Her best friend is cursed by a compass that never moves but she can’t figure out why. Her mother’s soulmate link spontaneously changes, leaving their family in shambles. And Lacey’s soulmate. . . that’s another story.
A city away, Jaylynn Clare has a different problem. After a haunting prediction from a local psychic, her life becomes a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Promised unavoidable tragedy if she meets her linked partner, she takes it upon herself to run at all costs. But can fate be avoided, or only prolonged?
In a mad dash of love, lies, and long-forgotten curses, seekers across the globe weave together in this heart-wrenching narrative of entangled soulmates.
430 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2023
22 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Weiss
3 books41 followersA natural storyteller with a flair for the dramatic, Ashley Weiss lives in Alberta, Canada. Her debut novel, Cupid’s Compass, began as a 2020 quarantine project and grew to be an irreplaceable passion. When she isn’t writing, Ashley can be found cuddling her dog or watching movies with her love.
Official website: www.ashleyweiss.writes.ca
Find her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashley.weiss.writes/
Find her on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@ashleyweisswrites
Purchase Cupid's Compass https://books2read.com/Cupids-Compass
Official website: www.ashleyweiss.writes.ca
Find her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashley.weiss.writes/
Find her on YouTube:
www.youtube.com/@ashleyweisswrites
Purchase Cupid's Compass https://books2read.com/Cupids-Compass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 8, 2023
Thank you to the author for a gifted copy.
UNIQUE CONCEPT.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
If you’re looking for a very diverse read with a concept I haven’t heard of, this might be the book for you! I loved the compass idea and how this book looked into MANY types of love situations. From love of a friend, companion, partner, self and more. I enjoyed finding out each person’s story.
There was a looooot of POV’s though. I think I counted 12?? And that really didn’t feel necessary. I feel like the author was trying to make sure we saw every single angle, but it took me awhile to remember who was who and which story line and everything in between.
I liked how short and fast the chapters were. And this isn’t a FANTASY book. More of a urban fantasy + magical realism kind of vibe. I didn’t mind, as I thought it functioned well within the world built around these compasses and the Roman gods. I loooove meddling gods and look forward to hopefully seeing more of them too.
The writing was fantastic. I had set out to read x amount of pages a day, and proceeded to find something continually wanting to pick it up. It was an engaging story and after that ending I NEED ANSWERS.
Overall audience notes:
- Urban Fantasy / Magical Realism
- Language: low
- Romance: Kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Trigger/Content Warnings: sexual assault, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, a religious cult, self-harm off page, homophobia, emotional abuse
UNIQUE CONCEPT.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
If you’re looking for a very diverse read with a concept I haven’t heard of, this might be the book for you! I loved the compass idea and how this book looked into MANY types of love situations. From love of a friend, companion, partner, self and more. I enjoyed finding out each person’s story.
There was a looooot of POV’s though. I think I counted 12?? And that really didn’t feel necessary. I feel like the author was trying to make sure we saw every single angle, but it took me awhile to remember who was who and which story line and everything in between.
I liked how short and fast the chapters were. And this isn’t a FANTASY book. More of a urban fantasy + magical realism kind of vibe. I didn’t mind, as I thought it functioned well within the world built around these compasses and the Roman gods. I loooove meddling gods and look forward to hopefully seeing more of them too.
The writing was fantastic. I had set out to read x amount of pages a day, and proceeded to find something continually wanting to pick it up. It was an engaging story and after that ending I NEED ANSWERS.
Overall audience notes:
- Urban Fantasy / Magical Realism
- Language: low
- Romance: Kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Trigger/Content Warnings: sexual assault, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, a religious cult, self-harm off page, homophobia, emotional abuse
June 19, 2023
Cupids Compass was a unique roller coaster of a book.
I loved the alternate history, where the Roman empire is the main power and therefore all of the world (ish) worships the Roman dieties. It was interesting that all of the countries kept their same names, it gave the book an urban fantasy feel.
There are eleven (11) different POVs.
Each character had their own personality, their own growth, and were relatable in their own ways. The emotions between them are so raw, you can't help but feel them.
The dynamic between the characters, how they are all connected in this cosmic/Fated way was beautiful... even if I sometimes got angry with the way some of the characters behaved.
The novel is written so you experience everything in almost real time. However, the time jumps without a heads up was a bit discombobulating. I had to do mental math while reading with different POVs.
The whole book is about love; romantic love, familial love, and platonic love. I was thrilled to see that the author didn't make it totally romantic love, that she knew someone's soulmate could be their daughter, or bestfriend.
Weiss also touches on self-love, and just because someone is your soulmate doesn't mean you can't love other people in different ways.
I really liked how these different types of love were encountered at different stages in life.
And I really like how this all deepened the emotional impact.
Cupid's Compass is an absolutely riveting tale of love in all forms. I'm excited for the next book, mind that precipice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Potential triggers include sexual assault, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, a religious cult, self-harm off page, homophobia, PTSD, alcohol use and emotional abuse.
Representation: LGBTQ+, Mental Illness
*Song: I knew I loved you before I met you - savage garden
“I've always believed that magic is like love. It isn’t meant to be understood; it’s meant to be felt.”
I loved the alternate history, where the Roman empire is the main power and therefore all of the world (ish) worships the Roman dieties. It was interesting that all of the countries kept their same names, it gave the book an urban fantasy feel.
There are eleven (11) different POVs.
Each character had their own personality, their own growth, and were relatable in their own ways. The emotions between them are so raw, you can't help but feel them.
The dynamic between the characters, how they are all connected in this cosmic/Fated way was beautiful... even if I sometimes got angry with the way some of the characters behaved.
The novel is written so you experience everything in almost real time. However, the time jumps without a heads up was a bit discombobulating. I had to do mental math while reading with different POVs.
The whole book is about love; romantic love, familial love, and platonic love. I was thrilled to see that the author didn't make it totally romantic love, that she knew someone's soulmate could be their daughter, or bestfriend.
Weiss also touches on self-love, and just because someone is your soulmate doesn't mean you can't love other people in different ways.
I really liked how these different types of love were encountered at different stages in life.
And I really like how this all deepened the emotional impact.
Cupid's Compass is an absolutely riveting tale of love in all forms. I'm excited for the next book, mind that precipice.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Potential triggers include sexual assault, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, a religious cult, self-harm off page, homophobia, PTSD, alcohol use and emotional abuse.
Representation: LGBTQ+, Mental Illness
*Song: I knew I loved you before I met you - savage garden
“I've always believed that magic is like love. It isn’t meant to be understood; it’s meant to be felt.”
October 26, 2024
I felt like a ping pong ball going from perspective to perspective. The idea behind it was good just felt like I needed less perspectives happening.
June 22, 2024
Where do I begin? This book was raw and authentic. It felt like a major departure from most of what I come across in contemporary young adult. Where most books might draw you into one or two major plotlines, this book invites you to consider love in all it's complexities and messiness. I found myself constantly reevaluating my own relationship with my loved ones as I was drawn into the intertwining stories of the many characters.
The world building was fun. I felt like it drew inspiration from Percy Jackson without the same degree of fantasy. In other words, this world felt much more tangible.
I'm so excited to read the next one because the cliffhanger was incredibly well done.
The world building was fun. I felt like it drew inspiration from Percy Jackson without the same degree of fantasy. In other words, this world felt much more tangible.
I'm so excited to read the next one because the cliffhanger was incredibly well done.
June 19, 2023
For the first time in a long time, I finished an entire book in one day. “Cupid’s Compass” by Ashley Weiss was an incredible book! I loved the interwoven stories of the main characters, and the Roman mythology. The book pulls at your heartstrings as each person’s story unfolds. I really recommend this book!
February 27, 2024
One ⭐️ for the unique idea.
Best thing about this book was the cover.
Best thing about this book was the cover.
October 31, 2024
I am impressed this is Ashley Weiss’ debut novel! There are many characters and the alternating POVs kept the pace moving quickly. Though there were a lot of characters and Roman mythology references to keep track of, the indexes at the back of the book were helpful. I loved the concept — it reminded me of The Measure by Nikki Erlick — but some aspects of the compass confused me, especially that some soulmates’ compasses wouldn’t point to each other. It begs the question, is it possible to have an unrequited soulmate? Also, some of the POVs jumped ahead in time (especially at the beginning) so dates would have been helpful at the beginning of chapters. I appreciated how inclusive the author is in her writing, referencing a variety of gender identities and sexual orientations. I flew through this book in under a week because I couldn’t wait to find out what happened in each storyline. Now I can’t wait for the next book!
June 20, 2023
This book is perfect for the hopeless romantic like myself. It reminded me of movies like Valentine’s Day and Love Actually where we have multiple love stories that we are getting to watch play out all at the same time with some sort of little interconnection.
The writing style here was very pretty and I found the book easy to read! The premise here of the compass tattoos was so interesting and unique. I really like the concept for this story!
Overall, a nice read that is certain to tug at your heart strings ❤️
The writing style here was very pretty and I found the book easy to read! The premise here of the compass tattoos was so interesting and unique. I really like the concept for this story!
Overall, a nice read that is certain to tug at your heart strings ❤️
June 19, 2023
This was such a unique take on mythology and the concept of soulmates. Weiss takes us on a journey with a large cast of characters and POVs but weaves them together in a way that is satisfying and engaging. Fascinating examination of the different forms of love and perfect for fans of soulmates, mythology, and interconnecting stories like the films Love, Actually, New Years Day, and Valentine’s Day.
June 23, 2023
This was a fun and interesting plot to read but I got a bit jumbled with all of the different POVs presented - there were 11! I loved the idea of a compass leading you to a fated love - be that romantic, familial, platonic. I wonder if mines would have led to the many types of loves in my own life? So unique and interesting but could have done without the many POVs lol.
June 30, 2024
This book covers everyone’s perspective and I mean everyone! Which makes it hard to get into however the storylines blend together wonderfully.
The concept of having a tattoo that guides you to your soulmate is deceiving, this is not your average love story. It’s about personal growth and shows how love comes in many forms.
The concept of having a tattoo that guides you to your soulmate is deceiving, this is not your average love story. It’s about personal growth and shows how love comes in many forms.
June 18, 2023
This story had me hooked from the first pages. I loved the ideea of the compasses tattoos based on magic which only appears when you are ready to meet your soulmate. It also made me rethink what a soulmate truly is and all the different forms of love we encounter throughout our lifetimes.
The storyline touches all the aspects of human experience through various life stages.
The multiple point of views was a bonus.
The storyline touches all the aspects of human experience through various life stages.
The multiple point of views was a bonus.
June 19, 2023
This is certainly not my typical genere of book, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I could tell all of the different stories would be interconnected somehow. I love the concept of the compass pointing you to your soulmate, and how everyone has a different experience with that. It really parallels the reality that some of us feel that we are broken, but really we are just different than everyone else, and that can be beautiful, especially after we learn to accept ourselves for who we are and embrace the ‘different’.
I am not a lover of multiple POV, usually two is my max, but I was able to get invested in each story and look forward to learning more and more about each character.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes romance with just a little bit of fantasy and mythology sprinkled in.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
I am not a lover of multiple POV, usually two is my max, but I was able to get invested in each story and look forward to learning more and more about each character.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes romance with just a little bit of fantasy and mythology sprinkled in.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
September 1, 2024
i wasn’t expecting to be so captivated by this book. i’ll admit at the beginning it was really confusing following all the povs, but after i got used to it, it was cool to see how it all came together, and THE ENDING?!
June 11, 2023
Cupid's Compass is a unique romance novel that incorporates Roman mythology.
This story pulls you in from the start and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions.
The characters are all relateable and created with a realism that you connect to and really bond with, so their emotions become your emotions.
This novel is so richly written, each part is so well described that the whole novel feels like it's playing out as you read it.
Cupid's Compass is an enjoyable read and if you love your mythology, soulmates and romance then book is definitely for you.
This story pulls you in from the start and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions.
The characters are all relateable and created with a realism that you connect to and really bond with, so their emotions become your emotions.
This novel is so richly written, each part is so well described that the whole novel feels like it's playing out as you read it.
Cupid's Compass is an enjoyable read and if you love your mythology, soulmates and romance then book is definitely for you.
February 27, 2024
This book was a train wreck. I can’t believe it has over 4 stars.
July 22, 2023
I really wanted to love this book. It's an interesting premise and I love Greek and Roman mythology, but unfortunately this one fell flat for me.
There were a lot of characters but not much in the way of development. The chapters were short, quickly bouncing back and forth, but contain little in the way of substance. Describing the death of a main character's soul mate was very surface level... there was just no real depth anywhere.
This may find an audience with a younger middle grade crowd.
There were a lot of characters but not much in the way of development. The chapters were short, quickly bouncing back and forth, but contain little in the way of substance. Describing the death of a main character's soul mate was very surface level... there was just no real depth anywhere.
This may find an audience with a younger middle grade crowd.
June 10, 2024
I CANNOT BELIEVE LACEY LOST HER COMPASS TYING HER TO SEBASTIAN AND THEN MET DAMIEN INSTEAD HOLYYYYYY SHITTTTT
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2025
4.5 ⭐️This book was positively phenomenal. The concept was super unique and I loved watching the stories of all of the characters unfold. There are such real concepts brought out in the book and many are so painful to read through, but it made the characters so much more real. The ending was absolutely ridiculous in the best way! My only critique is that I wish there were slightly less POVs. I loved seeing the different experiences, but it felt like it slowed down the plot at times. I’m so glad I found this book and I’m so excited to read the next one when it comes out!
June 22, 2023
Okay I've read some cruel cliff hangers, but this.....this is in my top 3 of the cruelest cliffhangers!!!!
I thought this was just a nice slice of life story showing the different things that happen when love is involved and how it relates to soulmates. I was wrong because about 75% of the way through Ashley changes it up and totally throws me for a loop. It was a good loop that happened at just the right time when all this tension was going on and making me wonder what makes this story go past one book. Well I found out and I didn't expect it and I need the next book like ASAP! There are a lot of unresolved things and I've got a million questions I need the answer to yesterday 😂
Other than that, it's a great book. It starts a little slow and the pov changes are a little confusing at first because there are a lot of people being followed. It also didn't start with a linear time frame but after the character intros it progresses as time does so it gets easier to understand where the characters are at and their relation to other characters. Really it felt like at first they didn't have much to do with each other but based on that end, I was wrong.
There wasn't anyone I liked more or disliked more than the others... Maybe Sebastian and Gareth were my favorite, or maybe Jaylynn. Okay we're gonna go with I didn't not like anyone but those were the pov's I liked more. All the characters were very fleshed out and I felt a bond to them that half the time made me want to yell at them like that friend who anticipates a car wrecked coming or is hyping them up like crazy.
Very much recommend this if you like multiple pov's, soulmate scenarios, and feeling love and dislike for a book at the same time because you have to wait for the next one
I thought this was just a nice slice of life story showing the different things that happen when love is involved and how it relates to soulmates. I was wrong because about 75% of the way through Ashley changes it up and totally throws me for a loop. It was a good loop that happened at just the right time when all this tension was going on and making me wonder what makes this story go past one book. Well I found out and I didn't expect it and I need the next book like ASAP! There are a lot of unresolved things and I've got a million questions I need the answer to yesterday 😂
Other than that, it's a great book. It starts a little slow and the pov changes are a little confusing at first because there are a lot of people being followed. It also didn't start with a linear time frame but after the character intros it progresses as time does so it gets easier to understand where the characters are at and their relation to other characters. Really it felt like at first they didn't have much to do with each other but based on that end, I was wrong.
There wasn't anyone I liked more or disliked more than the others... Maybe Sebastian and Gareth were my favorite, or maybe Jaylynn. Okay we're gonna go with I didn't not like anyone but those were the pov's I liked more. All the characters were very fleshed out and I felt a bond to them that half the time made me want to yell at them like that friend who anticipates a car wrecked coming or is hyping them up like crazy.
Very much recommend this if you like multiple pov's, soulmate scenarios, and feeling love and dislike for a book at the same time because you have to wait for the next one
June 30, 2023
Mythology happens to be one of my favorite topics & while I am still trying to make my way through some of the original ones. I love reading fantasy based on mythology.
Cupid’s Compass is my very first time picking up Roman Mythology. Cupid’s compass follows 11 different characters; yes there are 11 POVs in this story. And while that can be a little confusing in the beginning, the climax was so worth it.
Ashley Weiss has tried something new with this series and it’s a welcome change from the fantasy books I have read. Cupid’s compass as the name suggests talks about love and soul mates. I liked how she depicted these concepts as something more than love interests. Soul mates are not always the partner you are romantically involved with. It could be what a daughter is to a mother, or it could be a friend or it could even be your pet dog.
Some people are obsessed with the idea of soulmates and others can see it as a curse. Some people find their soulmates even when they are not looking and others spend their entire lives looking for one. Some people find them only to lose them forever and some people have their soulmates with them and they don’t realize it. Cupid’s Compass talks about all of these through characters. That was my favorite part about this book.
Cupid’s compass has its turn and twists, especially in the last 10-15% where I did see a few of the plot twists coming, others took me by surprise.
This could easily have been a 5-star read for me but a few POVs got a little annoying in between. Even though I didn’t hate any of the characters, I still have my favorite. Sadly all of them had the least amount of appearance. I loved Nylah, Gareth, and Sebastian’s POVs the most so I hope to read more about them in the next book. I also loved Blake but in the second half, I wasn’t the biggest fan of her, however, she had PTSD so her reactions made sense.
I am definitely picking up the next book when it comes.
Thank you to Hidden Hollow Book Tours and Ashley Weiss for the eARC.
Cupid’s Compass is my very first time picking up Roman Mythology. Cupid’s compass follows 11 different characters; yes there are 11 POVs in this story. And while that can be a little confusing in the beginning, the climax was so worth it.
Ashley Weiss has tried something new with this series and it’s a welcome change from the fantasy books I have read. Cupid’s compass as the name suggests talks about love and soul mates. I liked how she depicted these concepts as something more than love interests. Soul mates are not always the partner you are romantically involved with. It could be what a daughter is to a mother, or it could be a friend or it could even be your pet dog.
Some people are obsessed with the idea of soulmates and others can see it as a curse. Some people find their soulmates even when they are not looking and others spend their entire lives looking for one. Some people find them only to lose them forever and some people have their soulmates with them and they don’t realize it. Cupid’s Compass talks about all of these through characters. That was my favorite part about this book.
Cupid’s compass has its turn and twists, especially in the last 10-15% where I did see a few of the plot twists coming, others took me by surprise.
This could easily have been a 5-star read for me but a few POVs got a little annoying in between. Even though I didn’t hate any of the characters, I still have my favorite. Sadly all of them had the least amount of appearance. I loved Nylah, Gareth, and Sebastian’s POVs the most so I hope to read more about them in the next book. I also loved Blake but in the second half, I wasn’t the biggest fan of her, however, she had PTSD so her reactions made sense.
I am definitely picking up the next book when it comes.
Thank you to Hidden Hollow Book Tours and Ashley Weiss for the eARC.
June 17, 2023
If you are a fan of Love Actually, you will adore this tale of separate lives interweaving as each set of characters negotiates love when you have a clear compass pointing to your soulmate. There's passionate love of course (all fade to black), but also more platonic forms of love. I was particularly excited that more platonic forms of love featured, which of course I am all over because of my own series featuring platonic soul mates. Each story gripped my heartstrings and left me feeling warm and glowy, even the harder and harsher tales within the novel.
I love how Weiss brought a modern feel to this fantasy, with a world where the Roman / Greek gods are closer to humanity. It's very similar to ours except for these tell-tale compass clocks and a draw to your heart's partner.
My little tiny gripes are that supporting characters weren't really fleshed out, so when their motivation changed, it jarred me. The main characters themselves are very well done but sometimes their voices did blur into one another, making me flick back to check whose POV I was currently in, and some conversations felt a bit forced. DESPITE THESE, I want to emphasise that this is a fantastic story and I read it in under a day, begrudging real life whenever it rudely tore me away from these characters.
I have received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
I love how Weiss brought a modern feel to this fantasy, with a world where the Roman / Greek gods are closer to humanity. It's very similar to ours except for these tell-tale compass clocks and a draw to your heart's partner.
My little tiny gripes are that supporting characters weren't really fleshed out, so when their motivation changed, it jarred me. The main characters themselves are very well done but sometimes their voices did blur into one another, making me flick back to check whose POV I was currently in, and some conversations felt a bit forced. DESPITE THESE, I want to emphasise that this is a fantastic story and I read it in under a day, begrudging real life whenever it rudely tore me away from these characters.
I have received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.
July 3, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
3.5/5 STARS
This is a YA romance/part fantasy.
Synopsis:
A tattoo of a compass links people to their soulmate. Simple, but it’s not. The tattoo can change and fate is tricky.
This is a unique YA romance. It’s a modern story set in Canada with a fantasy, Roman mythology twist. I really enjoyed the mythology and the gods part. The idea of the compass tattoos was great! I liked the intricate spin and weaving of the characters’ timelines and stories. I loved the Canadian setting!
There were a few too many POVs(11) that made it confusing for the first half of the book and the timelines of the characters jumped a few times without a note. I think on the editing side, there were some geographical things that needed to be fixed. For example, it is not Buffalo City. It is just Buffalo. Also some directional things were incorrect in regards to the location of some cities. This would go over most people’s heads, but I’m very familiar with the areas and it is an easy edit. It didn’t take away from the story for me though.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and will definitely read the next one. I can’t wait to see where it goes!
Thank you to Ashley for the gifted copy! 💘
3.5/5 STARS
This is a YA romance/part fantasy.
Synopsis:
A tattoo of a compass links people to their soulmate. Simple, but it’s not. The tattoo can change and fate is tricky.
This is a unique YA romance. It’s a modern story set in Canada with a fantasy, Roman mythology twist. I really enjoyed the mythology and the gods part. The idea of the compass tattoos was great! I liked the intricate spin and weaving of the characters’ timelines and stories. I loved the Canadian setting!
There were a few too many POVs(11) that made it confusing for the first half of the book and the timelines of the characters jumped a few times without a note. I think on the editing side, there were some geographical things that needed to be fixed. For example, it is not Buffalo City. It is just Buffalo. Also some directional things were incorrect in regards to the location of some cities. This would go over most people’s heads, but I’m very familiar with the areas and it is an easy edit. It didn’t take away from the story for me though.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and will definitely read the next one. I can’t wait to see where it goes!
Thank you to Ashley for the gifted copy! 💘
December 18, 2023
"For the love of Cupid."
Just like it says, this book will have you saying those exact words. Weiss showcased impeccable writing skills and story weaving with her debut novel.
It captured me with the mention of Roman Mythology and gripped me further with each chapter that went by.
I loved the use of Roman Numerals for the chapter numbers. It fit with the theme and encapsulated the story within it's design.
The character development had me reeling as each character embodied their personalities and never lost them along the way. Though there was a few moments where I felt the characters were lackluster or they just generally grated on my nerves.
This character driven book had me - twisted inside as I read. Focusing on the different types of love one can experience and share. I enjoyed how Weiss displayed this within her characters.
This diverse cast and the way their lives intertwined was written beautifully. It had me questioning who would appear next within the story and how they all fit into each other's lives.
So if you're interested in a modern take on Roman Mythology. The story of Cupid, and all the little bits in between about love and life. This book should definitely be added to your TBR.
Just like it says, this book will have you saying those exact words. Weiss showcased impeccable writing skills and story weaving with her debut novel.
It captured me with the mention of Roman Mythology and gripped me further with each chapter that went by.
I loved the use of Roman Numerals for the chapter numbers. It fit with the theme and encapsulated the story within it's design.
The character development had me reeling as each character embodied their personalities and never lost them along the way. Though there was a few moments where I felt the characters were lackluster or they just generally grated on my nerves.
This character driven book had me - twisted inside as I read. Focusing on the different types of love one can experience and share. I enjoyed how Weiss displayed this within her characters.
This diverse cast and the way their lives intertwined was written beautifully. It had me questioning who would appear next within the story and how they all fit into each other's lives.
So if you're interested in a modern take on Roman Mythology. The story of Cupid, and all the little bits in between about love and life. This book should definitely be added to your TBR.
June 23, 2023
Cupid’s Compass was my first read by Ashley Weiss and boy did she knock my socks off!
First off, this cover is absolutely STUNNING! I would’ve picked this book up to read off that alone. I’m a sucker for beautiful covers. This is a book I will for sure be displaying on my book case. 5/5 stars for the cover itself.
Now on to the actual story.
This is by far one of the more unique mythology and soul mate blends I’ve read in a really long time. First off, I don’t think I’ve ever read a book where Roman deities are worshiped, freaking LOVED seeing something not just Greek deities for once. Then throw in the soul mate compass tattoos! How freaking cool!
There’s were a lot of POVs, while I can understand why that might throw off some readers, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was fun seeing all of the characters and different types of relationships(both romantic and platonic). I found the characters to be relatable and loved how their different stories were interconnected.
The writing itself was also rich and beautiful. Ashley Weiss kept my attention from beginning to end with Cupid’s Compass. I cannot wait for the next book!
First off, this cover is absolutely STUNNING! I would’ve picked this book up to read off that alone. I’m a sucker for beautiful covers. This is a book I will for sure be displaying on my book case. 5/5 stars for the cover itself.
Now on to the actual story.
This is by far one of the more unique mythology and soul mate blends I’ve read in a really long time. First off, I don’t think I’ve ever read a book where Roman deities are worshiped, freaking LOVED seeing something not just Greek deities for once. Then throw in the soul mate compass tattoos! How freaking cool!
There’s were a lot of POVs, while I can understand why that might throw off some readers, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was fun seeing all of the characters and different types of relationships(both romantic and platonic). I found the characters to be relatable and loved how their different stories were interconnected.
The writing itself was also rich and beautiful. Ashley Weiss kept my attention from beginning to end with Cupid’s Compass. I cannot wait for the next book!
June 26, 2025
Bratty teens? Check. A magic system that makes no sense? Check. 100 unconnected perspectives? Check.
I definitely thought this plot was gonna go in a different direction. This book started with an interesting, unique concept. But as it goes, you realize the compasses that society is practically built around, are inconsistent and realistically completely irrelevant.
People change their soulmates whenever. And it’s played like an anomaly, but the more characters you meet, the more it happens so seems pretty common. It’s weird they care so much about the compass when the message is “love everyone anyway”.
There are so many people to keep track of, you end up not really caring about any of them.
It mixes reality (USA, Canada) with fiction (Greek gods) and past (Roman empire) and it just doesn’t meld. I still don’t even know where the Roman Empire is located in this book or what they control so it��s just jarring to read. The gods are somehow both completely irrelevant, and also extremely relevant, which again, jarring.
Could have been good with the base idea, but missed the mark for me.
I definitely thought this plot was gonna go in a different direction. This book started with an interesting, unique concept. But as it goes, you realize the compasses that society is practically built around, are inconsistent and realistically completely irrelevant.
People change their soulmates whenever. And it’s played like an anomaly, but the more characters you meet, the more it happens so seems pretty common. It’s weird they care so much about the compass when the message is “love everyone anyway”.
There are so many people to keep track of, you end up not really caring about any of them.
It mixes reality (USA, Canada) with fiction (Greek gods) and past (Roman empire) and it just doesn’t meld. I still don’t even know where the Roman Empire is located in this book or what they control so it��s just jarring to read. The gods are somehow both completely irrelevant, and also extremely relevant, which again, jarring.
Could have been good with the base idea, but missed the mark for me.
July 14, 2025
I'm such a sucker for unique worldbuilding and this multi POV, urban fantasy-esque, Roman god-based story is like nothing I've read before. The way the compasses behaved was fascinating, and I really appreciated that the story emphasized the value of love beyond just romantic love to show self love, familial love, friend/pet love, etc.
The entire book I couldn't help but reflect on how many people were experiencing their compasses differently to the overarching "soulmate" narrative, but were unable to discuss it openly and had to navigate some difficult and complex emotions because of both their compasses and society's tunnel vision around what having a compass should mean.
While adjusting to the many POVs was difficult initially, I feel that having so many different POVs gave a much more realistic and comprehensive view of the world - from it's people, locations, magic and religion systems, history, etc. When the POVs started converging, the stories had been told separately then weaved together so well that they were fully believable.
Then the many twists at the end? Can't wait for the next one!
The entire book I couldn't help but reflect on how many people were experiencing their compasses differently to the overarching "soulmate" narrative, but were unable to discuss it openly and had to navigate some difficult and complex emotions because of both their compasses and society's tunnel vision around what having a compass should mean.
While adjusting to the many POVs was difficult initially, I feel that having so many different POVs gave a much more realistic and comprehensive view of the world - from it's people, locations, magic and religion systems, history, etc. When the POVs started converging, the stories had been told separately then weaved together so well that they were fully believable.
Then the many twists at the end? Can't wait for the next one!
August 21, 2025
Cupid’s Compass is a light fantasy novel about magical tattoo compasses that appear when you’re deemed mature enough to find your soulmate. These mythical compasses have a beautiful story that many believe is just that...a story. While many view the compass as a blessing and look forward to getting theirs, there are others who view them as a curse and wish to take their lives into their own hands...even if it means...”desecrating” their gift.
This book is really interesting and being allowed to experience a wide range of characters as they go through the years of their lives helps connect you to them. They are each complex in their own ways and struggle with the paths that they wish to be on.
I love the touch backs to the mythical inspiration for the story, but what I love the most is that the characters are the driving force for the story. Yes, their compasses have some play in the story, but it’s not a domineering aspect. The story kept me engaged and the ending absolutely left me eager for more.
I’m excited to see what happens next with these characters, but things really start ramping up towards the end.
This book is really interesting and being allowed to experience a wide range of characters as they go through the years of their lives helps connect you to them. They are each complex in their own ways and struggle with the paths that they wish to be on.
I love the touch backs to the mythical inspiration for the story, but what I love the most is that the characters are the driving force for the story. Yes, their compasses have some play in the story, but it’s not a domineering aspect. The story kept me engaged and the ending absolutely left me eager for more.
I’m excited to see what happens next with these characters, but things really start ramping up towards the end.
June 20, 2023
This was a very interesting read. A bit strange at first, but I couldn't put it down and enjoyed it nonetheless.
I went into it fairly blind. I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting, but this wasn't it (and I don't mean that in a bad way). The way it was written was just a bit different than what I'm used to. There were so many different points of view. Like soo many, I've lost count. Luckily it wasn't too difficult for me to remember who was who. The chapters were all on the short side, which made it easy to fly through the story. It's one that could easily be read in a day.
At first I wasn't a huge fan of all the different points of view, but in the end I did appreciate all the different insights regarding their compasses. Everything that happened at the end in addition to the little twist at the very end (which I was not expecting!) has me very curious and ready to read book two!
⚠️TW: SA, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, religious cult, self-harm (off page), homophobia, emotional abuse.⚠️
I went into it fairly blind. I'm not entirely sure what I was expecting, but this wasn't it (and I don't mean that in a bad way). The way it was written was just a bit different than what I'm used to. There were so many different points of view. Like soo many, I've lost count. Luckily it wasn't too difficult for me to remember who was who. The chapters were all on the short side, which made it easy to fly through the story. It's one that could easily be read in a day.
At first I wasn't a huge fan of all the different points of view, but in the end I did appreciate all the different insights regarding their compasses. Everything that happened at the end in addition to the little twist at the very end (which I was not expecting!) has me very curious and ready to read book two!
⚠️TW: SA, suicidal thoughts, death of loved ones, religious cult, self-harm (off page), homophobia, emotional abuse.⚠️
March 20, 2024
I'd rate this sucker a 4 star read! I received this book as a gift for Xmas (our family name is Weise, so my mom was intrigued & picked it up). For a local author's first book, I wasn't sure what to expect and I guess I put it on a higher pedestal of sorts and was READY.TO.JUDGE.
Let me start by saying that I have started to grown away from the YA genre and this was YA. But she was fuckin' awesome and I have NEVER ready anything like this before. The concept was bloody AWESOME giving In Time & Sense 8 vibes.
There were a TON of characters and SO many POV's... BUT throughout the book it will all make sense as they will all be connected to each other one way or another. I would definitely say it was hard to see a whole lot of character development throughout due to this.
3 plot twists at the end of the book that I honestly never seen coming, and I usually have a bit of a sixth sense. Super impressed and the wait for 2025 cannot come soon enough for Venus's Vengeance!
Let me start by saying that I have started to grown away from the YA genre and this was YA. But she was fuckin' awesome and I have NEVER ready anything like this before. The concept was bloody AWESOME giving In Time & Sense 8 vibes.
There were a TON of characters and SO many POV's... BUT throughout the book it will all make sense as they will all be connected to each other one way or another. I would definitely say it was hard to see a whole lot of character development throughout due to this.
3 plot twists at the end of the book that I honestly never seen coming, and I usually have a bit of a sixth sense. Super impressed and the wait for 2025 cannot come soon enough for Venus's Vengeance!
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