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Where the River Meets the Soul
Lifetime after lifetime, Lost and found again, Until the cycle was broken...
As an herbalist, Heriath lives a life devoted to others. A task that has become increasingly difficult with the loss of the Elysir, a magical bloom that's healing properties have kept the people of Vyelan strong and healthy for hundreds of years. She does her best to make up for the loss, but when her sister's illness is discovered to be fatal she makes it her mission to find the healing blossom. With the help of a friend and a lucky encounter with the heiress of a powerful company in Vyelan, she finds herself on a journey to return the Elysir to its former glory. To save her sister's life she must reunite the souls of an ancient mystic and his wife which proves to be an easy task at first. That is until she finds herself drawn to one of the bonded pair. The once simple mission twists into a struggle between head and heart as she's pulled between her love for her sister and her newfound feelings. As physical and emotional challenges are thrown her way, Heriath must learn to trust herself and decide if being selfish is the right choice.
TW: Loss, Grief, Terminal Illness.
(If you or a loved one is currently experiencing a terminal illness, I wish you all the best. I wish you peace and hope that this novel can provide a ray of sunshine through the grey clouds of life.)
As an herbalist, Heriath lives a life devoted to others. A task that has become increasingly difficult with the loss of the Elysir, a magical bloom that's healing properties have kept the people of Vyelan strong and healthy for hundreds of years. She does her best to make up for the loss, but when her sister's illness is discovered to be fatal she makes it her mission to find the healing blossom. With the help of a friend and a lucky encounter with the heiress of a powerful company in Vyelan, she finds herself on a journey to return the Elysir to its former glory. To save her sister's life she must reunite the souls of an ancient mystic and his wife which proves to be an easy task at first. That is until she finds herself drawn to one of the bonded pair. The once simple mission twists into a struggle between head and heart as she's pulled between her love for her sister and her newfound feelings. As physical and emotional challenges are thrown her way, Heriath must learn to trust herself and decide if being selfish is the right choice.
TW: Loss, Grief, Terminal Illness.
(If you or a loved one is currently experiencing a terminal illness, I wish you all the best. I wish you peace and hope that this novel can provide a ray of sunshine through the grey clouds of life.)
432 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2023
27 people are currently reading
798 people want to read
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December 28, 2023https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
Heriath from Where the River Meets the Soul is asexual!
Heriath from Where the River Meets the Soul is asexual!
September 12, 2023
A cozy fantasy romance with magical plants, a prophecy, and a healer determined to save her sister, no matter what.
First off, the characters in this were so good! We knew their desires and fears & how they tick. They seem so human and (mostly) all like people I'd love to be friends with. I love good characterization, and this book had that. Not only for the mc and the love interest, but for all the more minor characters too. We got a little glimpse into their lives, how they became who they are, and why they do what they do.
Secondly, there were some gaps in the world building. Their vehicles were something called "steam wagons", which were never explained as to how they work and what the layout of the vehicle was. And the characters spent a lot of time in and around steam wagons! It also took me forever to figure out what level of technology they had, and there were no mentions of politics. Do they have mayors? A queen? A president? Anarchy? It just needed a bit more description of things to take the setting to the next level. As it was, the setting we did get cemented the book's place as a cozy fantasy. Basically everyone was warm and welcoming and the nature that was described sounded really pretty. Definitely cottagecore vibes. Or Studio Ghibli vibes? I feel like this would make a very good Studio Ghibli movie.
As far as plot, I'd say this was more character driven, but there was definitely stuff happening to move the plot forward. It was a bit slower though, but in a good way. More calm and cozy than boring. And exciting and serious things happened! Stakes were high!
In regards to the romance, it was the perfect gradual slowburn. And they were just so cute and sweet together. I also just love how queerness is just completely normal in this world.
Overall, this book was a cute, cozy, fun read, where there was romance and plot in equal measures. I'd love to read another book with these characters or in this world, and I have no doubt that the author will improve in regards to world building as she writes more.
First off, the characters in this were so good! We knew their desires and fears & how they tick. They seem so human and (mostly) all like people I'd love to be friends with. I love good characterization, and this book had that. Not only for the mc and the love interest, but for all the more minor characters too. We got a little glimpse into their lives, how they became who they are, and why they do what they do.
Secondly, there were some gaps in the world building. Their vehicles were something called "steam wagons", which were never explained as to how they work and what the layout of the vehicle was. And the characters spent a lot of time in and around steam wagons! It also took me forever to figure out what level of technology they had, and there were no mentions of politics. Do they have mayors? A queen? A president? Anarchy? It just needed a bit more description of things to take the setting to the next level. As it was, the setting we did get cemented the book's place as a cozy fantasy. Basically everyone was warm and welcoming and the nature that was described sounded really pretty. Definitely cottagecore vibes. Or Studio Ghibli vibes? I feel like this would make a very good Studio Ghibli movie.
As far as plot, I'd say this was more character driven, but there was definitely stuff happening to move the plot forward. It was a bit slower though, but in a good way. More calm and cozy than boring. And exciting and serious things happened! Stakes were high!
In regards to the romance, it was the perfect gradual slowburn. And they were just so cute and sweet together. I also just love how queerness is just completely normal in this world.
Overall, this book was a cute, cozy, fun read, where there was romance and plot in equal measures. I'd love to read another book with these characters or in this world, and I have no doubt that the author will improve in regards to world building as she writes more.
z-dnf-nopes
August 6, 2025DNF @ 13%
I was having a hard time with the left aligned text, but I would have been fine except there were a bunch of distracting typos and missing words
I have the Rainbowcrate hard copy I may try to read this version later, but the kindle edition is not quite working for me
I was having a hard time with the left aligned text, but I would have been fine except there were a bunch of distracting typos and missing words
I have the Rainbowcrate hard copy I may try to read this version later, but the kindle edition is not quite working for me
February 12, 2026
I stared for a while, wondering if this book was a four- or five- star read for me. There were a few things that took it down to four, nothing major, more like there being a sum of a bunch of little things that, when added up, were too much to ignore.
Starting with my smallest gripe: editing and formatting. This book has the same issue as a lot of recent ones where it becomes difficult to tell who’s talking when, and it made the story hard to follow at times. And there were some spelling issues here and there; I will say that this book did a MUCH better job with that than many other indie books, but still, the aim when publishing should be to have *zero* of these kinds of mistakes.
Now, for me personally, I do not like first-person point of view. I do not like present-tense narration. I do not like switching POVs. And this book had all three of those. However, I did finish reading it and I think that’s a testament to the fact that, for the most part, this is a VERY well-written book. The characters feel alive and three-dimensional, the plot is coherent and had thrills, and the setting… was mostly interesting, though I did imagine conflicting styles of what kind of environment this would be. We have herbalists being the front line of medical care, but then we also have wagons that appear to be motorized, and then one of the characters uses the phrase “dietary restrictions” which just felt very odd to say in this universe, as if it’s far too modern an expression. I actually stared at the page when I first read that.
I think my frustrations with this book partly come from the fact that certain aspects probably would benefit had this been written in a third-person omniscient point of view. Tansae’s inner dialogue felt childish in first person. Maybe that was the point?
I have to say, none of the queer representation in this book was done badly or disrespectfully, but most of it felt… shallow? Is that the word I’m looking for? I found the way Endel’s gender identity is explained, and his family’s accommodation, to be a bit cheesy. I think I’m most frustrated with having been told this was an asexual love story, yet the most we get alluding to that is Heriath mentioning offhand she’s “not into sex.” It never becomes a major plot point or anything. For a while, I thought we were gearing up for a powerful narrative about how soulmates don’t have to be romantic, but it all just kinda fell flat for me and I finished the book kind of disappointed, honestly.
Anyway, well-written book, but not for me. Would still recommend it to others, but probably won’t ever read it again.
Starting with my smallest gripe: editing and formatting. This book has the same issue as a lot of recent ones where it becomes difficult to tell who’s talking when, and it made the story hard to follow at times. And there were some spelling issues here and there; I will say that this book did a MUCH better job with that than many other indie books, but still, the aim when publishing should be to have *zero* of these kinds of mistakes.
Now, for me personally, I do not like first-person point of view. I do not like present-tense narration. I do not like switching POVs. And this book had all three of those. However, I did finish reading it and I think that’s a testament to the fact that, for the most part, this is a VERY well-written book. The characters feel alive and three-dimensional, the plot is coherent and had thrills, and the setting… was mostly interesting, though I did imagine conflicting styles of what kind of environment this would be. We have herbalists being the front line of medical care, but then we also have wagons that appear to be motorized, and then one of the characters uses the phrase “dietary restrictions” which just felt very odd to say in this universe, as if it’s far too modern an expression. I actually stared at the page when I first read that.
I think my frustrations with this book partly come from the fact that certain aspects probably would benefit had this been written in a third-person omniscient point of view. Tansae’s inner dialogue felt childish in first person. Maybe that was the point?
I have to say, none of the queer representation in this book was done badly or disrespectfully, but most of it felt… shallow? Is that the word I’m looking for? I found the way Endel’s gender identity is explained, and his family’s accommodation, to be a bit cheesy. I think I’m most frustrated with having been told this was an asexual love story, yet the most we get alluding to that is Heriath mentioning offhand she’s “not into sex.” It never becomes a major plot point or anything. For a while, I thought we were gearing up for a powerful narrative about how soulmates don’t have to be romantic, but it all just kinda fell flat for me and I finished the book kind of disappointed, honestly.
Anyway, well-written book, but not for me. Would still recommend it to others, but probably won’t ever read it again.
December 31, 2025
I really liked this book and the villain's arch.
June 13, 2024
I met the author at Booknet Fest in Orlando and bought the book. I had no expectations other than the plot sounded good. I was surprised how quickly I was invested. This is definitely a character driven cozy fantasy novel. I enjoyed all of the characters; however the villain steals the show a bit by being so much more complex than the main characters. That being said, the plot is always moving, as characters develop relationships and move toward their goals. One other complaint I have is that the world wasn’t developed enough for me. There are steam wagons. Do they have electricity? Are the roads paved? What’s the society like? Who’s running things? Is there police? And my last question is why Zyl would take Tansae’s drink AFTER knowing she poisoned Endel? Still. I enjoyed the book. I was rooting for Heriath and Endel and Zyl. (Was honestly hoping for a throuple)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2024
Such a nice laid back read. Really love all the characters 🥹🫶🏾
September 15, 2023
I was excited to read this novel, and in short, it was well worth the wait! If you are considering reading/purchasing it, my only advice is: DO IT NOW!
There are so many elements to this book that I will be posting a more thorough, spoiler review at a later date, but for now, I will simply list some of the things that are spoiler free.
First, the outline of the book. As a neuro-divergent reader, I have always hated how important information (pronunciation guides and such) are located in the back of the book, or worse, scattered throughout the book. It has long been the bane of my existence. I either have to risk flipping to the back of the book and accidentally spoiling things for myself, or I end up waiting until I finish the story to learn the information. I was overjoyed to find all of the guides at the FRONT of the book (including a very well written herbalist guide, which was very helpful to reference throughout the story).
The characters were well written, with realistic emotions, goals, and lives. I laughed, cried, and hoped, right alongside them, and they quickly became like old friends to me. Even characters that were only briefly mentioned were as fleshed out as the main characters, and this made the whole story feel more realistic and 3D.
The world building was exquisite. From the plants and terrain to the people and their culture, everything was well thought-out, with no obvious plot holes or contradictions. People, places, and scenes were described enough to give the reader a clear picture without over-describing or tedious, unnecessary details.
Finally, the story, the main reason most of us read. I am going to be vague here, since the book has not been out long enough for spoilers, but what a treat! The goals and reasons behind them were realistic and relatable. Characters had realistic responses to events, and I really enjoyed the attention to detail and making certain complex emotions/experiences so tangible (anxiety, depression, stress, etc). The overarching storyline was superb, and I loved how it unfolded so naturally, yet with so many surprises and turns that it didn't feel like a script.
I will also add, as an asexual individual myself, it was so refreshing to read a story where the asexual character is properly portrayed! I loved romance, of course, but seeing such good representation was everything my heart has yearned for. I won't say more about it at the moment, but if you also are asexual or simply tired of raunchy romances, then you will absolutely love this novel!
In closing, I am so excited to read the story again, and I look forward to any other work from S. Nicole! I wish the author the very best with this book launch, and hope for more stories in the near future!
There are so many elements to this book that I will be posting a more thorough, spoiler review at a later date, but for now, I will simply list some of the things that are spoiler free.
First, the outline of the book. As a neuro-divergent reader, I have always hated how important information (pronunciation guides and such) are located in the back of the book, or worse, scattered throughout the book. It has long been the bane of my existence. I either have to risk flipping to the back of the book and accidentally spoiling things for myself, or I end up waiting until I finish the story to learn the information. I was overjoyed to find all of the guides at the FRONT of the book (including a very well written herbalist guide, which was very helpful to reference throughout the story).
The characters were well written, with realistic emotions, goals, and lives. I laughed, cried, and hoped, right alongside them, and they quickly became like old friends to me. Even characters that were only briefly mentioned were as fleshed out as the main characters, and this made the whole story feel more realistic and 3D.
The world building was exquisite. From the plants and terrain to the people and their culture, everything was well thought-out, with no obvious plot holes or contradictions. People, places, and scenes were described enough to give the reader a clear picture without over-describing or tedious, unnecessary details.
Finally, the story, the main reason most of us read. I am going to be vague here, since the book has not been out long enough for spoilers, but what a treat! The goals and reasons behind them were realistic and relatable. Characters had realistic responses to events, and I really enjoyed the attention to detail and making certain complex emotions/experiences so tangible (anxiety, depression, stress, etc). The overarching storyline was superb, and I loved how it unfolded so naturally, yet with so many surprises and turns that it didn't feel like a script.
I will also add, as an asexual individual myself, it was so refreshing to read a story where the asexual character is properly portrayed! I loved romance, of course, but seeing such good representation was everything my heart has yearned for. I won't say more about it at the moment, but if you also are asexual or simply tired of raunchy romances, then you will absolutely love this novel!
In closing, I am so excited to read the story again, and I look forward to any other work from S. Nicole! I wish the author the very best with this book launch, and hope for more stories in the near future!
October 26, 2025
DNF 77%
I can tell this was one of the writers first novels. The pacing is really off and drags. I feel like this book needs an editor who tells them to erase at least 300 pages. Make the story more fast paced and up the stakes.
Right now I just felt 0 urgency to the story. The land is supposed to be dying right? There is a lack of resorces in herbs so probably in food as well. More people dying because there is no medicine…
We as a reader are never shown the impact of the situation. The main characters sister is supposed to be dying and yet she almost never talks to her sister.
Then the characters all of a sudden feel like they need weapons for the road ahead. Why? Again, we as a reader haven’t heard of any possible danger. As far as we know, this world is really safe. Of course they get attacked by bandids later?
This story needs more information about the world but told in a way that’s more interesting than just telling us, it needs more complex and fleshed out characters, and the story needs to feel more urgent.
The writer had a great idea, now it just needs more finnese and corrections.
I can tell this was one of the writers first novels. The pacing is really off and drags. I feel like this book needs an editor who tells them to erase at least 300 pages. Make the story more fast paced and up the stakes.
Right now I just felt 0 urgency to the story. The land is supposed to be dying right? There is a lack of resorces in herbs so probably in food as well. More people dying because there is no medicine…
We as a reader are never shown the impact of the situation. The main characters sister is supposed to be dying and yet she almost never talks to her sister.
Then the characters all of a sudden feel like they need weapons for the road ahead. Why? Again, we as a reader haven’t heard of any possible danger. As far as we know, this world is really safe. Of course they get attacked by bandids later?
This story needs more information about the world but told in a way that’s more interesting than just telling us, it needs more complex and fleshed out characters, and the story needs to feel more urgent.
The writer had a great idea, now it just needs more finnese and corrections.
October 27, 2023
I am newer to reading and even newer to the fantasy genre, but this book right here made me fall in love with Cozy Fantasy Romance books. The author's writing style was like a nice big hug when you needed it most. The book itself I can easily see becoming my comfort read in between books.
The book makes you fall in love with every character (except one and that is extremely intentional haha). The queer representation was also handled so well throughout the book with an Ace MC and a gender-fluid, I believe pansexual, love interest.
I wish I could write out by thoughts a bit better on technique, world building, character development, etc...but I am just not there yet. I can only say how the book made me feel and that was COMFORTED.
Please give this book a read. This is really a 4.5/5, but goodreads won't let me half star lol
The book makes you fall in love with every character (except one and that is extremely intentional haha). The queer representation was also handled so well throughout the book with an Ace MC and a gender-fluid, I believe pansexual, love interest.
I wish I could write out by thoughts a bit better on technique, world building, character development, etc...but I am just not there yet. I can only say how the book made me feel and that was COMFORTED.
Please give this book a read. This is really a 4.5/5, but goodreads won't let me half star lol
July 11, 2025
Rainbow Book Crate Edition...
Thanks to a great mystic herbalist and his soul mate, Vyelan is a garden of healing wonders.
Over the years the magics of the garden have been fading and the herbs necessary to keep the population healthy are in limited supply. Heriath, an herbalist, sets out on a quest to restore the balance and hopefully save her sister. Along the way she meets a librarian with information she needs and a genderfluid artist that may be the reincarnation of one of the soul mates.
Beautiful world building, full of plant lore and crafting, and a great cast lead you on an adventure to save a realm.
But be warned - as with most beautiful gardens, there may be a snake hiding in full view.
I truly enjoyed being introduced to a genderfluid character and the bracelet concept was inspirational!
Thanks to a great mystic herbalist and his soul mate, Vyelan is a garden of healing wonders.
Over the years the magics of the garden have been fading and the herbs necessary to keep the population healthy are in limited supply. Heriath, an herbalist, sets out on a quest to restore the balance and hopefully save her sister. Along the way she meets a librarian with information she needs and a genderfluid artist that may be the reincarnation of one of the soul mates.
Beautiful world building, full of plant lore and crafting, and a great cast lead you on an adventure to save a realm.
But be warned - as with most beautiful gardens, there may be a snake hiding in full view.
I truly enjoyed being introduced to a genderfluid character and the bracelet concept was inspirational!
November 24, 2023
Where the River Meets the Soul was a charming departure from the typical romantasy novel. The world-building was deep and immersive. Heriath, the main character, is an herbalist with extensive knowledge of her craft. Throughout the novel, we’re introduced to a diverse ecosystem and interesting landscapes. This made the universe feel very fleshed out.
Similarly, the characters all had logical motivations and distinct personalities. While the novel isn’t low stakes, as Heriath is on a quest to save her sister, there are still plenty of soothing vibes and coziness. The ACE and Queer rep is top tier. I would recommend this if you’re looking for your next comfort read. It does touch on a few heavy topics, but at its core, it is still a love story.
Similarly, the characters all had logical motivations and distinct personalities. While the novel isn’t low stakes, as Heriath is on a quest to save her sister, there are still plenty of soothing vibes and coziness. The ACE and Queer rep is top tier. I would recommend this if you’re looking for your next comfort read. It does touch on a few heavy topics, but at its core, it is still a love story.
October 7, 2023
Y’all the characters are so vibrant and authentic. This book had me smiling, laughing, and crying. The plot is very captivating and the pacing is quite literally spot on. It was a back and forth with who was a step ahead and I literally couldn’t put the book down and when I had to I didn’t because I kept thinking about it. The romance is SO BEAUTIFUL AHH 🥹‼️ Y’all this is another one of my favorite books this year. 5/5 ⭐️s
September 16, 2023
I am absolutely in love with this book, it's refreshing to see a relationship blossom without any mention of smut but just he fact that the love interests genuinely care for each other. The fact that it's an ace romance is something that is rarely explored and I feel like there should be more books written with this type of romance. Overall I love this book and I'm glad that I read it!!
August 28, 2025
a cute and unique twist on soulmates and plant magic. i loved the relationships between the characters and the way they grew over the book. i also really enjoyed the plants and herbalism and the way it played heavily into the world building. overall a fun and quick read with beautiful characters, fun adventure, and just a hint of danger.
January 13, 2024
Well, that was such a beautiful, cute journey. I loved the premise so much, and the characters were amazing..
I was a bit confused with the Andell and the pronouns it took me a while to figure it out .but the romance plot was very cute and well written
I was a bit confused with the Andell and the pronouns it took me a while to figure it out .but the romance plot was very cute and well written
May 23, 2024
This is such a rainy day read, I adored the characters and the setting. I’d recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a meandering adventure with lots of dialogue and heartfelt connection.
The author is self published and deserves a huge round of applause for the masterpiece they’ve created.
The author is self published and deserves a huge round of applause for the masterpiece they’ve created.
June 12, 2025
The cover art is stunning. I couldn’t stop staring at it.
I love how there is a journal in the beginning. And even name pronunciation. (Thank you!) Everyone in this book was a joy. (Except for one person that shall not be named lol)
I hope to read more of the Author’s work.
I love how there is a journal in the beginning. And even name pronunciation. (Thank you!) Everyone in this book was a joy. (Except for one person that shall not be named lol)
I hope to read more of the Author’s work.
January 4, 2026
Loved the characters and plot. World building was not developed and the pacing sometimes dragged. But a fun read
November 4, 2023
Since this is my own novel I'm rating it five stars just for my accomplishment of finishing it and publishing on my own! In reality I'd say my novel is about a 4 to 4.5 star read for those in my audience.
This is the only interaction I'll have in a readers space outside of direct questions and discussions over on my tiktok @s.nicoleauthor
You can follow me and ask questions about the novel there if you so choose. Have Fun and, as always, Happy Reading!
This is the only interaction I'll have in a readers space outside of direct questions and discussions over on my tiktok @s.nicoleauthor
You can follow me and ask questions about the novel there if you so choose. Have Fun and, as always, Happy Reading!
December 11, 2023
This book is phenomenal. It managed to break my heart it put it back together again. It eas truly inspiring. It was exactly what I needed as a balck ace fantasy romance adventure lover out here in the great big world. It really felt like I was in the world as well from the characterization and world building. I loved it all! I cannot praise this boom and author enough. Thank you!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews