What do you think?
Rate this book
The Soul Thief Trilogy #2
The Soul Thief
A VENGEFUL QUEEN. A SOUL-TETHERED BOND. A NEW EVIL RISING.
Telium's greatest mistake has cost her more than she can bear. With the revered King of Thresiel dead, the fragile balance between kingdoms is crumbling, and she may be too broken to stop it.
Now, the mission she lost everything to prevent is resurging. Her traitorous lover is gone, and someone far more menacing has stepped in to take his place.
Forced before an unforgiving Queen to pay for her crimes, Telium is ordered to stop the rising rebellion.
With her soul bonded to another, Telium faces a world of corruption, fickle gods and well-buried secrets. She must bargain with her life to protect her people, whatever the cost.
In the thrilling second instalment, Madeline Te Whiu returns us to a world of heartbreak, deadly power and treacherous betrayal.
Telium's greatest mistake has cost her more than she can bear. With the revered King of Thresiel dead, the fragile balance between kingdoms is crumbling, and she may be too broken to stop it.
Now, the mission she lost everything to prevent is resurging. Her traitorous lover is gone, and someone far more menacing has stepped in to take his place.
Forced before an unforgiving Queen to pay for her crimes, Telium is ordered to stop the rising rebellion.
With her soul bonded to another, Telium faces a world of corruption, fickle gods and well-buried secrets. She must bargain with her life to protect her people, whatever the cost.
In the thrilling second instalment, Madeline Te Whiu returns us to a world of heartbreak, deadly power and treacherous betrayal.
496 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2023
35 people are currently reading
1165 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
January 6, 2024
My first 5⭐️ read for 2024!
Madeline, I don’t know how you do it, I’ve completely and irrevocably fallen in love with your books.
Reviews are always hard for me to write, I can never seem to get my end thoughts out, to many thoughts, so little time. I feel a little like Telium in that way.
Thank you for writing some badass characters that won’t ever leave me.
Can’t wait for book 3 ♥️
Madeline, I don’t know how you do it, I’ve completely and irrevocably fallen in love with your books.
Reviews are always hard for me to write, I can never seem to get my end thoughts out, to many thoughts, so little time. I feel a little like Telium in that way.
Thank you for writing some badass characters that won’t ever leave me.
Can’t wait for book 3 ♥️
November 15, 2023
✨ OH how I love a good anti-hero/very morally grey main character(s)!!
Book 2 in the series, starts out where we left on in book 1 and THANKGOD! I HAD to know what happened next.
In the book we are following Telium in her determination to right all her wrongs. She made a mess and she is owning to it. We obviously have our male main character there, doing all the right things and being all the right kinds of hot! I will not spoil anything but this one has my heart!
I loved the extra characters that we meet and I love a added found family trope. There were twists and turns and TENEBRIS CURSE ME, I loved it!
My favourite quote from the book:
"... someone that would see my darkness not as a threat but as refuge. Sound of your voice brings my demons to their knees" 🥵
#screaming!
Book 2 in the series, starts out where we left on in book 1 and THANKGOD! I HAD to know what happened next.
In the book we are following Telium in her determination to right all her wrongs. She made a mess and she is owning to it. We obviously have our male main character there, doing all the right things and being all the right kinds of hot! I will not spoil anything but this one has my heart!
I loved the extra characters that we meet and I love a added found family trope. There were twists and turns and TENEBRIS CURSE ME, I loved it!
My favourite quote from the book:
"... someone that would see my darkness not as a threat but as refuge. Sound of your voice brings my demons to their knees" 🥵
#screaming!
February 6, 2025
YES 👏
“its having someone that sees the most horrible, rotten parts of you, and loves you anyway“
A great second instalment for the soul thief trilogy. I really enjoyed learning more about Telium and her past. Her and the magic systems and the build up to the next book.
𝙎𝙃𝙀 𝙄𝙎 𝘿𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙉𝙀𝙎𝙎. 𝙎𝙃𝙀 𝙄𝙎 𝘿𝙀𝘼𝙏𝙃.
🗡️ Loveable characters
🗡️ Fae
🗡️ Emotional
🗡️ Sarcastic / Morally Grey FMC
🗡️ World building
🗡️ Goddesses
🗡️ Court Politics
Pax has my heart ♥️
It’s very CC / TOG vibes but also an amazing and unique storyline. I’m really enjoying the adventure Madeline is taking me on and can’t wait to see how it all ends when The Queen Thief is released!
4.5 ⭐️
“its having someone that sees the most horrible, rotten parts of you, and loves you anyway“
A great second instalment for the soul thief trilogy. I really enjoyed learning more about Telium and her past. Her and the magic systems and the build up to the next book.
𝙎𝙃𝙀 𝙄𝙎 𝘿𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙉𝙀𝙎𝙎. 𝙎𝙃𝙀 𝙄𝙎 𝘿𝙀𝘼𝙏𝙃.
🗡️ Loveable characters
🗡️ Fae
🗡️ Emotional
🗡️ Sarcastic / Morally Grey FMC
🗡️ World building
🗡️ Goddesses
🗡️ Court Politics
Pax has my heart ♥️
It’s very CC / TOG vibes but also an amazing and unique storyline. I’m really enjoying the adventure Madeline is taking me on and can’t wait to see how it all ends when The Queen Thief is released!
4.5 ⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2024
3🌟Okay, I was really disappointed with this read because I remember loving the absolute bejeebers out of the first one in this series. I think I was missing the romance angle in this story. I know it’s a fantasy so it’s not really about that, but I was expecting a bit more from their relationship and I think that’s what let me down in this read.
It felt very same same to the last one, without the slow burn tension, but I also lost my bearings. I could not remember the names of the people, the places, the gifts, the markings. They were all complicated and very out there, and so I found myself really getting confused at times. I feel really sad because I really wanted to love this, but I’m not sure.
It felt very same same to the last one, without the slow burn tension, but I also lost my bearings. I could not remember the names of the people, the places, the gifts, the markings. They were all complicated and very out there, and so I found myself really getting confused at times. I feel really sad because I really wanted to love this, but I’m not sure.
November 9, 2023
The second instalment in the Soul Thief trilogy - and guess what? It ends on a cliffhanger too!
In the aftermath of the big secret revealed at the end of book 1, Telium is now facing the dreadful consequences of her blindsided trust. I am totally in with the plot of the book, but for some reason, I am just not rooting for the main couple in here. I just want the villain dead.
Thanks, @netgalley @bolindaaudio @madelinetewhiu and @newdawnpub for the Audiobook ARC.
Genre: #fantasy #fae #magic
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
In the aftermath of the big secret revealed at the end of book 1, Telium is now facing the dreadful consequences of her blindsided trust. I am totally in with the plot of the book, but for some reason, I am just not rooting for the main couple in here. I just want the villain dead.
Thanks, @netgalley @bolindaaudio @madelinetewhiu and @newdawnpub for the Audiobook ARC.
Genre: #fantasy #fae #magic
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
October 27, 2024
Loved this!
Bring on book 3!!!
Bring on book 3!!!
September 26, 2023
I received an ARC of The Soul Thief as a gift from the publisher and author, and I will forever be grateful for it. I devoured this book faster than I could've imagined. I was nervous to read it, as I did struggle to get through the first 100 pages of its prequel The Assassin Thief. However, the growth in the writing from book one to two is astounding. Te Whiu really surprised me here, and I couldn't find a way to put this down.
I felt like I was reading Throne of Glass almost; like I wasn't reading at all, that's how naturally this flowed. Having read this book now, so many more things make sense as to writing and narrative choices of book one that make me feel a little silly for frowning over them before hand. But everything makes sense, everything has a place. I can't complain.
Five stars, out of the bottom of my heart, five stars.
I felt like I was reading Throne of Glass almost; like I wasn't reading at all, that's how naturally this flowed. Having read this book now, so many more things make sense as to writing and narrative choices of book one that make me feel a little silly for frowning over them before hand. But everything makes sense, everything has a place. I can't complain.
Five stars, out of the bottom of my heart, five stars.
November 17, 2023
[ARC from Netgalley]
The book picks up right where The Assassin Thief ends, and Telium has to face the consequences of her actions. The Soul Thief follows her journey, both the good and the bad, to find her justice.
I felt pretty meh about The Assassin Thief, and was positively surprised how much Te Whiu has grown as an author between the books. This book fleshes out the characters a bit more, and the pacing and world building is better. I am very excited to read future books.
This is a really great series for people who want to read about fae with a dash of romance where the FMC isn't a teenage girl that gets thrown into an unfamiliar world, and book 2 keeps that theme. The male love interest is definitely better in this book, and the romance is more beliveable.
The book picks up right where The Assassin Thief ends, and Telium has to face the consequences of her actions. The Soul Thief follows her journey, both the good and the bad, to find her justice.
I felt pretty meh about The Assassin Thief, and was positively surprised how much Te Whiu has grown as an author between the books. This book fleshes out the characters a bit more, and the pacing and world building is better. I am very excited to read future books.
This is a really great series for people who want to read about fae with a dash of romance where the FMC isn't a teenage girl that gets thrown into an unfamiliar world, and book 2 keeps that theme. The male love interest is definitely better in this book, and the romance is more beliveable.
January 12, 2024
Book one was great, but damn this is next level! 🔥🔥🔥 After the cliffhanger ending in The Assassin Thief I had to dive straight into this one. Yes, I devoured it! (What exactly did she put in this?!?) 😍
I fell even more in love with this world and all the new characters as tensions began mount and the stakes got higher! Telium is my queen and I will go to war for her any day! We love a ruthless morally grey FMC ⚔️ especially paired with a cinnamon roll MMC who’s obsessed with her! 😍 Paxium has my whole heart!
I need the next book asap! 🙏 and more PAX!!!!
I fell even more in love with this world and all the new characters as tensions began mount and the stakes got higher! Telium is my queen and I will go to war for her any day! We love a ruthless morally grey FMC ⚔️ especially paired with a cinnamon roll MMC who’s obsessed with her! 😍 Paxium has my whole heart!
I need the next book asap! 🙏 and more PAX!!!!
November 5, 2023
The Soul Thief is the action packed sequel to The Assassin Thief. It’s filled with revelations, healing and surprise physical appearances of certain entities that leave us with even more questions.
In this book, we see a completely different side of Telli. You experience her humanity. She may be the Fearsome Siren Queen’s Assassin but that is not all she is.
I really enjoyed seeing a softer side to her and I think Paxium is a huge reason for that.
Speaking of Paxium; I love him and I totally approve of him for my bad ass, assassin bestie. The banter/ arguments between these two is highly entertaining and relatable. I also live the unconditional support he gave to our Telli, I feel like she hasn’t had that since Trigg.
This book is a giant Journey and not just for Telli but for all the characters in the story.
Maddy has done a fantastic job with her characters, each one is well developed and they have a depth to them that all readers want. The writing is amazing as always and flows easily, you don’t get lost with everything that is going on in the story.
A massive thank you to Maddy and New Dawn for gifting me a physical ARC. I was so excited when it arrived at my door.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
Ps, I so think she should have went full bad ass assassin on that council. Bunch of cowards that need to be dethroned and I pray to Maddy that she makes that happen.
In this book, we see a completely different side of Telli. You experience her humanity. She may be the Fearsome Siren Queen’s Assassin but that is not all she is.
I really enjoyed seeing a softer side to her and I think Paxium is a huge reason for that.
Speaking of Paxium; I love him and I totally approve of him for my bad ass, assassin bestie. The banter/ arguments between these two is highly entertaining and relatable. I also live the unconditional support he gave to our Telli, I feel like she hasn’t had that since Trigg.
This book is a giant Journey and not just for Telli but for all the characters in the story.
Maddy has done a fantastic job with her characters, each one is well developed and they have a depth to them that all readers want. The writing is amazing as always and flows easily, you don’t get lost with everything that is going on in the story.
A massive thank you to Maddy and New Dawn for gifting me a physical ARC. I was so excited when it arrived at my door.
I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
Ps, I so think she should have went full bad ass assassin on that council. Bunch of cowards that need to be dethroned and I pray to Maddy that she makes that happen.
November 30, 2023
Thank you to The author and NetGalley for the audio arc for an honest review.
Rating: 3.7 ⭐️
Ok so the the plot is great and has significantly improved from the 1st book the author has definitely grown along with the characters in this book. Which is great!!!
I mean common how many books can you say the 2nd instalment is better (it’s rare).
I felt there was something missing in the first book but I feel the 2nd instalment really managed to patch that loss in well.
Not convinced on the love interest. But I will definitely be waiting for the 3rd book.
Rating: 3.7 ⭐️
Ok so the the plot is great and has significantly improved from the 1st book the author has definitely grown along with the characters in this book. Which is great!!!
I mean common how many books can you say the 2nd instalment is better (it’s rare).
I felt there was something missing in the first book but I feel the 2nd instalment really managed to patch that loss in well.
Not convinced on the love interest. But I will definitely be waiting for the 3rd book.
April 19, 2025
Oh my goodness! What a sequel to The Assassin Thief this was. Full of heartbreak, betrayal, tension and morally grey main characters I couldn’t put it down.
I really enjoyed the extension to the world building and the depth of Telium’s character in The Soul Thief. I feel we got to see a different side of her with more indecision and humanity appearing.
The relationship between her and Pax…so good! The both of them are morally grey with dark gifts, but are perfect for each other. Pax is so gentle with her but would end anyone who even speaks to her when they shouldn’t…just how we love our morally grey MMCs 😉
I really enjoyed the extension to the world building and the depth of Telium’s character in The Soul Thief. I feel we got to see a different side of her with more indecision and humanity appearing.
The relationship between her and Pax…so good! The both of them are morally grey with dark gifts, but are perfect for each other. Pax is so gentle with her but would end anyone who even speaks to her when they shouldn’t…just how we love our morally grey MMCs 😉
October 4, 2024
Who doesn’t love a morally grey, badass FMC? Teli is dealing with her own existential crisis through this book, sometimes it feels like she just gives up, pax is amazing. Morally grey in his own way. Slowest of all slow burns. I love it. I felt swept up in this book. Especially when I listened to the re read. Reading along and listening just immersed me so much more in this story. I did not see some twists coming. I cannot wait for book 3.
July 29, 2025
4.5 stars
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book after the ending of the first book. However, I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of great character development in it, but be careful with which characters you become attached to. I honestly think this series, even though I am yet to finish it, is quite under hyped. If you enjoyed TOG for Aelin particularly, and enjoyed Daughters of No Worlds, then I think this is a series you should pick up.
I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this book after the ending of the first book. However, I really enjoyed this book. There is a lot of great character development in it, but be careful with which characters you become attached to. I honestly think this series, even though I am yet to finish it, is quite under hyped. If you enjoyed TOG for Aelin particularly, and enjoyed Daughters of No Worlds, then I think this is a series you should pick up.
October 11, 2025
I feel like there were elements I liked about this book, but I personally didn’t enjoy the execution of it, so it took me an incredibly long time to finish. This series would have benefited from a glossary which explains all the Thief gifts, because frankly, much of the writing leaves the audience confused. Despite finishing the second book, I’m still failing to connect with some of the characters. Lotte fell off the planet, but I don’t care? Hermitch is supposedly this fearsome villain, but again… eh.
April 13, 2024
I am Lord Assassin. The last true ruler's deadliest weapon
I am Tenebris Kin. Blade Daughter to Trigg of Scara
I would kindly love book 3 now. 🥺
I am so invested in this story and Madeline has really stepped up as a writer. I look forward to meeting her!
I am Tenebris Kin. Blade Daughter to Trigg of Scara
I would kindly love book 3 now. 🥺
I am so invested in this story and Madeline has really stepped up as a writer. I look forward to meeting her!
May 31, 2024
Wow, wow, wow. Madeline Te Whiu has done it again. What a soulful journey Telium is going on in The Soul Thief, written so beautifully it feels like you're going on the journey with her.
I am so excited to see where we are taken next!
I am so excited to see where we are taken next!
January 2, 2025
This book stands above the first with just about everything. So keen for more of Pax and Telli’s story and see how this ends.
They have a wholesome friendship and it’s so sweet.
The Battles are brilliant and well detailed (love a good fight scene)
No 3 is gonna be interesting
They have a wholesome friendship and it’s so sweet.
The Battles are brilliant and well detailed (love a good fight scene)
No 3 is gonna be interesting
February 28, 2025
I feel like alot happened in this book but we are technically still back at the beginning? But i love this series so muchhhh im excited to read book 3, the plot in the end of book 1 was SO amazing, highly reccomend.
April 10, 2024
Absoultly dieing for the next oneeeee
January 1, 2025
4.75⭐️
Yes!! This is so much better than the first book, the writing improved, the tension was there, the dialect, EVERYTHING. Love love loved it. On to the next one immediately
Yes!! This is so much better than the first book, the writing improved, the tension was there, the dialect, EVERYTHING. Love love loved it. On to the next one immediately
April 14, 2025
This one had a bit of that SJM switcheroo and I loved it.
January 12, 2025
“𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕀 𝕨𝕠𝕦𝕝𝕕 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕕𝕠 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕋𝕖𝕝𝕝𝕚. 𝕀 𝕒𝕞 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕘𝕠𝕝𝕕𝕖𝕟 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕔𝕖𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕘. 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕣𝕒𝕫𝕖 𝕔𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕖𝕤, 𝕓𝕦𝕣𝕟 𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕣𝕖 𝕜𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕕𝕠𝕞𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕘𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕 𝕛𝕦𝕤𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕖𝕖𝕡 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕞.”
Oh my gosh, Madeline Te Whiu, you did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this book. It was a struggle to put this one down. We love ourselves a morally grey FMC and a dark and broody morally grey MMC. Everything that Telli feels about herself just breaks my heart for her, but I love how strong she is and how after everything in The Assassin Thief she is still able to trust and build this amazing found family. Really loved the world building and character development. The magic system is so interesting (though admittedly I am glad there is a pronunciation and translations guide to help me keep track) and I love that Telli is an older FMC who has had so many experiences and so many memories. It’s quite refreshing to read a fantasy with fae and humans where the FMC isn’t in her late teens/early twenties. I love the developing connection between the main characters and I need them to have a happily ever after in the next book!
If you love fantasy with a hint of romance and morally grey main characters this series is a must read!
So glad the third book is already out cause I’m starting it right now.
Oh my gosh, Madeline Te Whiu, you did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this book. It was a struggle to put this one down. We love ourselves a morally grey FMC and a dark and broody morally grey MMC. Everything that Telli feels about herself just breaks my heart for her, but I love how strong she is and how after everything in The Assassin Thief she is still able to trust and build this amazing found family. Really loved the world building and character development. The magic system is so interesting (though admittedly I am glad there is a pronunciation and translations guide to help me keep track) and I love that Telli is an older FMC who has had so many experiences and so many memories. It’s quite refreshing to read a fantasy with fae and humans where the FMC isn’t in her late teens/early twenties. I love the developing connection between the main characters and I need them to have a happily ever after in the next book!
If you love fantasy with a hint of romance and morally grey main characters this series is a must read!
So glad the third book is already out cause I’m starting it right now.
April 3, 2024
2.5
I loved how the book just continues on from that twist of a cliffhanger but then it seems to trickle away from all the action.
The writing is fabulous but the content is just not there. All the moving around and extra characters, gifts etc just didn’t add much more depth to the overall story.
The supposed romance seemed very forced and I couldn’t feel the chemistry … just like with Telium and Mallux. Im not sure if romance is something the author may want to just leave out next time.
The cliffhanger ending will still reel me into reading the third book when it comes out but I really hope we’re done with adding more people and getting more into the grit of it all.
I loved how the book just continues on from that twist of a cliffhanger but then it seems to trickle away from all the action.
The writing is fabulous but the content is just not there. All the moving around and extra characters, gifts etc just didn’t add much more depth to the overall story.
The supposed romance seemed very forced and I couldn’t feel the chemistry … just like with Telium and Mallux. Im not sure if romance is something the author may want to just leave out next time.
The cliffhanger ending will still reel me into reading the third book when it comes out but I really hope we’re done with adding more people and getting more into the grit of it all.
January 3, 2024
DNF at 32%. What an absolutely boring book. I have no care for the characters or their story at all.
February 2, 2025
UGHHHHHHHHH
I AM GONNA READ THE LAST ONE STEAIGHT away after this review.
Okay
Let’s begin.
What the fuck
Fuck
Fucking fuck
Just happened
Okay so
First
Telium now has a curse thing because of us adore and if she defies it she dies.
Got it.
And she also has soul thief powers.
Yes
Okay
This girl has been through all seven hells of the world because what.
Also the fact that she is lord assassin. What
And so many people died.
Like Errol
Why am I so sad about that.
But I love telium
She is such a good fmc
She is so strong and unique and I don’t know.
All of it.
And her and Paxium
OH MY GOSHHHBBSHSBSBWNWNQIQKD
HER AND PAXIUM
WHY CANT THEH JUST GWT MARRIED ALREADY
HE JUST HAD TO LEAVE.
HE HAD TO
REALLY
NO I REDUSE
I love paxium
Like I was a tad scared at the start that he was gonna be like mallux or soemthing but he and telium fit together sk well
Like omg
And the fact that he is always willing to do what he should for her.
Ughhh
So cute
Also the last fight scene of this book was crazy good
I rate it fr.
And I loved how many little side characters there are and how telium never forgets her past.
Like I loved sila and Jacob and Errol and fallon and KYa and Lucy and all of them.
Such good side characters.
And I also adored how telium continuously thinks of trigg and her queen and does it all for her people.
I love this book so much.
Quotes
“If I am the night, then you are the moon and all my stars. “
Oh my gosh
Paxium
BEKWMSNQJSNNWNSNWN
PACIUMMMMSMWMWNKKW
YSS
OMG
I read this and I was blushing, fawning and squirming and all of it.
Holy fuck.
And this quote shows that they are both night and dark, not the life and light.
Isnwjqknsbsjajabwjw
And also
“You don’t need to destroy yourself to find acceptance in others”
This hit hard.
Harddddd
Like it feels so really
Because like it’s so common to feel this way.
Like Paxium and his damn fae words.
And he keeps going
“There is nothing you can throw at me that I cannot handle. So, Leroy lying and say you don’t want me. Scream. Shout. Do whatever it takes to make you feel better. Because I am staying here and helping you. I will not let you destroy yourself to appease others.”
Fucking Paxium.
Stop with these quotes
They hit too close to home
Like marry her and me.
Thanks.
And it gets better.
BETTERR
“But you are not alone. You only need to hold out your hand;I will be here”
You won’t actually be here.
Yk
Cause you dipped to thresial.
But like it’s for her b
UAHWJQJSNNW
SHQJNSJWNANDN
K LOVED TBIS BOOKMMMSKWNKW
YES SLAY
I AM GONNA READ THE LAST ONE STEAIGHT away after this review.
Okay
Let’s begin.
What the fuck
Fuck
Fucking fuck
Just happened
Okay so
First
Telium now has a curse thing because of us adore and if she defies it she dies.
Got it.
And she also has soul thief powers.
Yes
Okay
This girl has been through all seven hells of the world because what.
Also the fact that she is lord assassin. What
And so many people died.
Like Errol
Why am I so sad about that.
But I love telium
She is such a good fmc
She is so strong and unique and I don’t know.
All of it.
And her and Paxium
OH MY GOSHHHBBSHSBSBWNWNQIQKD
HER AND PAXIUM
WHY CANT THEH JUST GWT MARRIED ALREADY
HE JUST HAD TO LEAVE.
HE HAD TO
REALLY
NO I REDUSE
I love paxium
Like I was a tad scared at the start that he was gonna be like mallux or soemthing but he and telium fit together sk well
Like omg
And the fact that he is always willing to do what he should for her.
Ughhh
So cute
Also the last fight scene of this book was crazy good
I rate it fr.
And I loved how many little side characters there are and how telium never forgets her past.
Like I loved sila and Jacob and Errol and fallon and KYa and Lucy and all of them.
Such good side characters.
And I also adored how telium continuously thinks of trigg and her queen and does it all for her people.
I love this book so much.
Quotes
“If I am the night, then you are the moon and all my stars. “
Oh my gosh
Paxium
BEKWMSNQJSNNWNSNWN
PACIUMMMMSMWMWNKKW
YSS
OMG
I read this and I was blushing, fawning and squirming and all of it.
Holy fuck.
And this quote shows that they are both night and dark, not the life and light.
Isnwjqknsbsjajabwjw
And also
“You don’t need to destroy yourself to find acceptance in others”
This hit hard.
Harddddd
Like it feels so really
Because like it’s so common to feel this way.
Like Paxium and his damn fae words.
And he keeps going
“There is nothing you can throw at me that I cannot handle. So, Leroy lying and say you don’t want me. Scream. Shout. Do whatever it takes to make you feel better. Because I am staying here and helping you. I will not let you destroy yourself to appease others.”
Fucking Paxium.
Stop with these quotes
They hit too close to home
Like marry her and me.
Thanks.
And it gets better.
BETTERR
“But you are not alone. You only need to hold out your hand;I will be here”
You won’t actually be here.
Yk
Cause you dipped to thresial.
But like it’s for her b
UAHWJQJSNNW
SHQJNSJWNANDN
K LOVED TBIS BOOKMMMSKWNKW
YES SLAY
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2023
Fans of the series will find themselves pleasantly surprised by the evolution of Te Whiu's writing style in "The Soul Thief." Telium returns in "The Soul Thief," picking up right where "The Assassin Thief" left off. Faces with repercussions of her past actions and embarks on a journey of redemption and retribution, the sequel not only showcases growth in storytelling but also brings forth a more evolved narrative and character development. Telium's journey to right her wrongs takes center stage, accompanied by a compelling male lead who captures hearts with his goodness. The addition of new characters and the found family trope enriches the storyline, weaving twists and turns that captivate readers until the very end.
Throughout "The Soul Thief," the character growth and development shine, providing a deeper understanding of Telium's complexity and her quest for redemption. The chemistry and tension between Telium and Paxium add depth to the storyline, leaving readers craving more. While the narrative is engaging and well-paced, some readers may find themselves torn by the direction of the main couple's storyline, yearning more for justice against the villainous forces. The audio narration by Tanya Schneider enhances the immersive experience, keeping listeners engaged and enthralled throughout the journey. The delivery and pace of the narration make it hard to resist binge-listening, a testament to the compelling storytelling.
The cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. While the series shows notable improvement, there's still anticipation for the final volume, promising further growth and a thrilling conclusion to Telium's captivating saga.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Bolinda Audio, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #TheSoulThief #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
Throughout "The Soul Thief," the character growth and development shine, providing a deeper understanding of Telium's complexity and her quest for redemption. The chemistry and tension between Telium and Paxium add depth to the storyline, leaving readers craving more. While the narrative is engaging and well-paced, some readers may find themselves torn by the direction of the main couple's storyline, yearning more for justice against the villainous forces. The audio narration by Tanya Schneider enhances the immersive experience, keeping listeners engaged and enthralled throughout the journey. The delivery and pace of the narration make it hard to resist binge-listening, a testament to the compelling storytelling.
The cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. While the series shows notable improvement, there's still anticipation for the final volume, promising further growth and a thrilling conclusion to Telium's captivating saga.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Bolinda Audio, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #TheSoulThief #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning
June 5, 2025
I took lots of gaps in between reading this book and balancing others, so some of the issues I had with it may be of my own making.
The writing is technically good; lovely adjectives and tight sentences but there were some editorial errors I noticed. There was an incomplete sentence on one page, a typo on the very next page (was “were” instead of “where”) and the word “agreeance” was used when we now use “agreement.” I found this frustrating because it took me out of the world.
This was my complaint in the last book, but please no more “savage grin” or “Tenebris curse me.” Once I noticed how often it was used, it started to bother me.
The fight sequences are really well executed and this is where the author shines. The choreography is well placed and it’s easy to follow, so I can visualise it very well. The emotions are incorporated well into the rhythm of the scene so I can feel what the character does.
That said, I’m never scared for the characters: we see Telium win in pretty well every fight, even when we’re told the odds are against her, so I’m never worried about her. She does get her ass kicked in the last fight with the Fae, but they also don’t seem that scary because of how easily she defeats them. I think they need to be beefed up or have other abilities that make them terrifying, because the payoff for Telium defeating them would be even stronger.
All of this said, I will be reading the next book because I’m interested in how the story ends and I want to support Australian authors, especially Australian authors who aren’t backed by a major publishing house.
The writing is technically good; lovely adjectives and tight sentences but there were some editorial errors I noticed. There was an incomplete sentence on one page, a typo on the very next page (was “were” instead of “where”) and the word “agreeance” was used when we now use “agreement.” I found this frustrating because it took me out of the world.
This was my complaint in the last book, but please no more “savage grin” or “Tenebris curse me.” Once I noticed how often it was used, it started to bother me.
The fight sequences are really well executed and this is where the author shines. The choreography is well placed and it’s easy to follow, so I can visualise it very well. The emotions are incorporated well into the rhythm of the scene so I can feel what the character does.
That said, I’m never scared for the characters: we see Telium win in pretty well every fight, even when we’re told the odds are against her, so I’m never worried about her. She does get her ass kicked in the last fight with the Fae, but they also don’t seem that scary because of how easily she defeats them. I think they need to be beefed up or have other abilities that make them terrifying, because the payoff for Telium defeating them would be even stronger.
All of this said, I will be reading the next book because I’m interested in how the story ends and I want to support Australian authors, especially Australian authors who aren’t backed by a major publishing house.
September 25, 2023
When I received an ARC of The Soul Thief by Madeline Te Whiu (thanks to the generosity of the author & New Dawn), I admit I let out a noise that actually startled my cat from his sleep. But to get an early copy of the sequel to The Assassin Thief is such a gift! This dark fantasy promises so much, & bookworms let me tell you right now, it *delivers*.
Okay, we all know I loved Telenium Tenebris Kin in the first book. But in The Soul Thief my love for this character knows no bounds! Her purpose, to bring Hermitch down, is a fire which sparks one of the greatest character growths I’ve ever seen. If you love broken but fierce heroines? A character who falters but keeps going? How about someone who believes she is darkness itself & unlovable, but finds a soul that can speak to this darkness? You *need* to read this.
Every page is a delight. Every chapter contains yet another moment in which readers will fall in love with The Soul Thief. Madeline’s writing is a pure delight, even though she made me cry multiple times. I’m going to sound ridiculous, but some of those tears? They were purely because a paragraph thrilled me & cued the waterworks! I am riding a wave of pure admiration & love over here. This dark fantasy is *epic*…
*** Want to read my FULL REVIEW? You can check it out on my blog via this link: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/the-s... ***
Okay, we all know I loved Telenium Tenebris Kin in the first book. But in The Soul Thief my love for this character knows no bounds! Her purpose, to bring Hermitch down, is a fire which sparks one of the greatest character growths I’ve ever seen. If you love broken but fierce heroines? A character who falters but keeps going? How about someone who believes she is darkness itself & unlovable, but finds a soul that can speak to this darkness? You *need* to read this.
Every page is a delight. Every chapter contains yet another moment in which readers will fall in love with The Soul Thief. Madeline’s writing is a pure delight, even though she made me cry multiple times. I’m going to sound ridiculous, but some of those tears? They were purely because a paragraph thrilled me & cued the waterworks! I am riding a wave of pure admiration & love over here. This dark fantasy is *epic*…
*** Want to read my FULL REVIEW? You can check it out on my blog via this link: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/the-s... ***
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews