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Curse of the Soul Collector
When a prince appears on a witch's doorstep, lost and injured, she lets him into her home...But she is determined that her heart will remain tightly locked, and he will never have the key.In a kingdom where magic evokes both awe and fear, Alma’s rare magical affinity causes the witch hunters to descend on her family, forcing her to abandon all she knows. For a decade, Alma conceals herself, estranged from a world that misconstrues her powers.
Prince Lorenzo grapples with the duties and expectations of his position, including the expectation that he marry a princess. In an attempt to appease his royal parents, he embarks on a rescue that strands him in haunted woods, injured and alone.
Fate or misfortune guides Lorenzo to Alma's sanctuary, where a fragile bond blooms between the prince and the wary witch. Yet, societal strictures and Alma's self-imposed barriers threaten to sunder them. Their hearts yearn to travel a forbidden path, but it is not to be. Lorenzo's inevitable departure and Alma's subsequent capture shatter their tentative hopes, as well as Alma’s heart.
While Alma grapples with her grief as well as her magic, she also must face her long held guilt about the death of her parents. Amid deceit and disloyalty, Lorenzo confronts the ultimate duty versus true love.
Prince Lorenzo grapples with the duties and expectations of his position, including the expectation that he marry a princess. In an attempt to appease his royal parents, he embarks on a rescue that strands him in haunted woods, injured and alone.
Fate or misfortune guides Lorenzo to Alma's sanctuary, where a fragile bond blooms between the prince and the wary witch. Yet, societal strictures and Alma's self-imposed barriers threaten to sunder them. Their hearts yearn to travel a forbidden path, but it is not to be. Lorenzo's inevitable departure and Alma's subsequent capture shatter their tentative hopes, as well as Alma’s heart.
While Alma grapples with her grief as well as her magic, she also must face her long held guilt about the death of her parents. Amid deceit and disloyalty, Lorenzo confronts the ultimate duty versus true love.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 7, 2023
7 people are currently reading
179 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 29, 2023
Starting this off by saying I received Curse of the Soul Collector for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Witches and magic are one of my favorite subjects to read in fiction. I love magic systems, and even enjoy a great story about a witch learning to use her magic. But when it’s written the way it was in this book, I’m just left wanting more. There was very little world building or magic system created in the story, which was such a bummer.
There was a ton of dialogue in this book, which is also a positive thing for me when I’m reading because it clues you in to things about the character and their personality in a way that doesn’t just describe it right out in narration. It’s a creative way to get you connected and care about the things and events that happen to them. However, this book had A LOT of basic conversation that didn’t add much to the plot or character building. There were so many mundane things being described that when removed could have made this book around 100 pages shorter. Had those 100 pages been filled with world building or magic system building, I would have enjoyed it so much more!
I did enjoy the fairytale feel of the story, but the way the author wrote this doesn’t feel like it’s geared toward young adult or new adult. Taking away the explicit scene, I think you’d have a good middle grade story!
I gave Curse of the Soul Collector 2.5/5 stars (rounded up to the 3)
Witches and magic are one of my favorite subjects to read in fiction. I love magic systems, and even enjoy a great story about a witch learning to use her magic. But when it’s written the way it was in this book, I’m just left wanting more. There was very little world building or magic system created in the story, which was such a bummer.
There was a ton of dialogue in this book, which is also a positive thing for me when I’m reading because it clues you in to things about the character and their personality in a way that doesn’t just describe it right out in narration. It’s a creative way to get you connected and care about the things and events that happen to them. However, this book had A LOT of basic conversation that didn’t add much to the plot or character building. There were so many mundane things being described that when removed could have made this book around 100 pages shorter. Had those 100 pages been filled with world building or magic system building, I would have enjoyed it so much more!
I did enjoy the fairytale feel of the story, but the way the author wrote this doesn’t feel like it’s geared toward young adult or new adult. Taking away the explicit scene, I think you’d have a good middle grade story!
I gave Curse of the Soul Collector 2.5/5 stars (rounded up to the 3)
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March 4, 2025A fantasy novel with romance and witchcraft!
I'm going to begin my review by saying that I'm not particularly drawn to Romantasys. I have read a few, but I've got to be in the mood, and I don't think I was when I listened to this on audiobook.
What I liked:
The world was unique but familiar enough that I didn't need eight chapters to understand how things operated. It was a standard medieval-esk fantasy world with peasants and kings. And witches.
I LOVED the different kinds of witches the author created in this world. Witches are born with powers that are either casters or callers (???). There are possibly more kinds of witches that are unknown. As expected, witches are outcasts and are frequently falsely accused of things and are burned.
The FMC, Alma, has a unique witchcraft ability, that of a soul collector. Without spoiling anything, it's pretty badass, especially when she figures out how to harness her powers. This was handsdown my favorite part of this story.
What I didn't like: I would have liked to see more witches from the other kinds in the book. We're told what they do and that they exist, and we meet one very briefly, but we don't get to see them in action, which disappointed me.
I wish I knew why the MMC, Lorenzo, was the way he was. He's a prince (of course) but he's super nice and respectful from the get-go,
This is perfectly fine btw, but I wanted to know why a prince would be this way. Not to say all royalty are assholes, but being born of privilege in a world dominated by poverty, it would have been nice to know how these two extremes intertwined to make him the way he was. We didn't get any backstory from him, no traumas or lifechanging experiences, or even really much interaction with his parents beyond that they wanted him to marry. He just seemed like a standard prince charming and I wanted more from him.
The plot was also a bit predictable. This might be pretty standard for Romantasys. Again, I don't read them super often but it did remove some of the tension for me.
I wasn't a huge fan of the romantic scenes, but this may been due to the fact that I was listening to it, and that always turns romance into cringe territory for me, so I think this was a me problem.
In conclusion:
I think people who enjoy Romantasys and love witchcraft will find a lot to like in this book and I absolutely recommend giving it a shot.
Also, the author is absolutely fabulous on Tiktok. Her videos are super inspiring and encouraging to other authors and she's just an all around awesome person. Definitely check her out and give her novel a shot!
I'm going to begin my review by saying that I'm not particularly drawn to Romantasys. I have read a few, but I've got to be in the mood, and I don't think I was when I listened to this on audiobook.
What I liked:
The world was unique but familiar enough that I didn't need eight chapters to understand how things operated. It was a standard medieval-esk fantasy world with peasants and kings. And witches.
I LOVED the different kinds of witches the author created in this world. Witches are born with powers that are either casters or callers (???). There are possibly more kinds of witches that are unknown. As expected, witches are outcasts and are frequently falsely accused of things and are burned.
The FMC, Alma, has a unique witchcraft ability, that of a soul collector. Without spoiling anything, it's pretty badass, especially when she figures out how to harness her powers. This was handsdown my favorite part of this story.
What I didn't like: I would have liked to see more witches from the other kinds in the book. We're told what they do and that they exist, and we meet one very briefly, but we don't get to see them in action, which disappointed me.
I wish I knew why the MMC, Lorenzo, was the way he was. He's a prince (of course) but he's super nice and respectful from the get-go,
This is perfectly fine btw, but I wanted to know why a prince would be this way. Not to say all royalty are assholes, but being born of privilege in a world dominated by poverty, it would have been nice to know how these two extremes intertwined to make him the way he was. We didn't get any backstory from him, no traumas or lifechanging experiences, or even really much interaction with his parents beyond that they wanted him to marry. He just seemed like a standard prince charming and I wanted more from him.
The plot was also a bit predictable. This might be pretty standard for Romantasys. Again, I don't read them super often but it did remove some of the tension for me.
I wasn't a huge fan of the romantic scenes, but this may been due to the fact that I was listening to it, and that always turns romance into cringe territory for me, so I think this was a me problem.
In conclusion:
I think people who enjoy Romantasys and love witchcraft will find a lot to like in this book and I absolutely recommend giving it a shot.
Also, the author is absolutely fabulous on Tiktok. Her videos are super inspiring and encouraging to other authors and she's just an all around awesome person. Definitely check her out and give her novel a shot!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2023
This book is the story of a witch who feels responsible for the death of her parents because she can’t control her magic and lives totally isolated from others for 10 yrs. Things begin to change and fall apart when a prince from a neighboring kingdom gets injured and only she is around to help him.
I enjoyed this story and felt for the female main character. Alma just cannot catch a break and she suffers quite a bit in this book. She deserved a happy ending so much! The romance was sweet and satisfying.
If you like witchy books with stories about learning to forgive yourself and making choices about how you want to live your life, you will enjoy this book.
I enjoyed this story and felt for the female main character. Alma just cannot catch a break and she suffers quite a bit in this book. She deserved a happy ending so much! The romance was sweet and satisfying.
If you like witchy books with stories about learning to forgive yourself and making choices about how you want to live your life, you will enjoy this book.
January 8, 2025
Wow first off you will fall in love with the FMC and though I am not one to read a lot fantasy Cara does it such a way that is elegant but not over powering. I love this book so much I even bought more than one signed copy. New to her writing pick this one up. Read it and you will want more.
November 21, 2023
A cute and cozy fantasy read about a fairytale prince and the witch who saves him.
It features:
-forced proximity
-forbidden love
-cottage in the woods
-haunted forest
-witch hunters
-hurt/comfort trope
-pretend courtship trope
-hero and heroine are both virgins and each other's first love
-black cat x golden retriever dynamic
Need I say more? Okay, I will.
Summary:
The story begins when Prince Lorenzo visits a neighboring kingdom on horseback, having heard a rumor that there was a princess in need of saving from a tower. In his search for one last adventure before his parents force him to marry, he goes alone. Things go awry, because of course they do, and he winds up instead at a witch's door, crippled and begging for aid. Romance ensues. But not everything is so easy. Alma has lived her life in isolation, fearing the inquisitors and getting close to anyone in equal measure. Lorenzo is a prince, and once he's healed, duty requires him to return to his home country and choose a noble or royal bride.
My thoughts:
I loved the tenderness of Alma and Lorenzo's romance. They are always so kind and thoughtful to each other, even as they suffer through their own emotional turmoil. And the spice? I'll admit I was taken by surprise, considering how YA the writing itself feels before these moments. The first half of the book was beautiful.
I wasn't as big on the second half. The main characters chase their tails for a good portion of the novel, spending so much time away from each other that I had time to forget how good they were together. I also wished there was more world-building and setting descriptions. For a plot that relies on political motivations, I did not feel I had a firm grasp of how the story's world works. The story also contains some very dark, very heavy themes that are overpowered by the lighthearted tone the writing takes. Some subplots and themes are left underdeveloped, making me wish this book was either shorter or longer.
Overall:
I really enjoyed the fairytale feel to this novel. It's a story that doesn't take itself too seriously. I read it in one evening, if that's any indication of how easily-digestible it is. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy fantasy featuring a healthy romance and sweet characters. Just be aware that there are some darker topics explored.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It features:
-forced proximity
-forbidden love
-cottage in the woods
-haunted forest
-witch hunters
-hurt/comfort trope
-pretend courtship trope
-hero and heroine are both virgins and each other's first love
-black cat x golden retriever dynamic
Need I say more? Okay, I will.
Summary:
The story begins when Prince Lorenzo visits a neighboring kingdom on horseback, having heard a rumor that there was a princess in need of saving from a tower. In his search for one last adventure before his parents force him to marry, he goes alone. Things go awry, because of course they do, and he winds up instead at a witch's door, crippled and begging for aid. Romance ensues. But not everything is so easy. Alma has lived her life in isolation, fearing the inquisitors and getting close to anyone in equal measure. Lorenzo is a prince, and once he's healed, duty requires him to return to his home country and choose a noble or royal bride.
My thoughts:
I loved the tenderness of Alma and Lorenzo's romance. They are always so kind and thoughtful to each other, even as they suffer through their own emotional turmoil. And the spice? I'll admit I was taken by surprise, considering how YA the writing itself feels before these moments. The first half of the book was beautiful.
I wasn't as big on the second half. The main characters chase their tails for a good portion of the novel, spending so much time away from each other that I had time to forget how good they were together. I also wished there was more world-building and setting descriptions. For a plot that relies on political motivations, I did not feel I had a firm grasp of how the story's world works. The story also contains some very dark, very heavy themes that are overpowered by the lighthearted tone the writing takes. Some subplots and themes are left underdeveloped, making me wish this book was either shorter or longer.
Overall:
I really enjoyed the fairytale feel to this novel. It's a story that doesn't take itself too seriously. I read it in one evening, if that's any indication of how easily-digestible it is. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy fantasy featuring a healthy romance and sweet characters. Just be aware that there are some darker topics explored.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2024
the cover is beautiful.
the story is supposed to be a fairytale, i guess, it’d explain the total naïveté of everything. the writing style doesn’t work for me, so i barely enjoyed the reading. yet, some moments were cute and some were funny - while most were nothing, ofc.
the story is supposed to be a fairytale, i guess, it’d explain the total naïveté of everything. the writing style doesn’t work for me, so i barely enjoyed the reading. yet, some moments were cute and some were funny - while most were nothing, ofc.
December 3, 2023
3.25 ⭐️
Curse of the Soul Collector is a new cozy fantasy about a witch named Alma and a prince named Lorenzo. I’ll start off by saying this book is for sure a low stakes, cozy fantasy book. A pretty large chunk of the book is devoted to showing a pretty domestic sort of life with the two MCs. I enjoyed that aspect, as I do tend to read fantasies that are higher stakes. It was nice to read about a world where magic exists without being constantly on edge and worried for the characters. There were certain points of this book where the characters were in danger, but it’s a very, very small chunk of the book. I enjoyed Alma and Lorenzo’s dynamic. They were fun and sweet together. It was the sort of dynamic that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
However, the world building in this book is extremely minimal, and I think it suffered for that. I wish it would have been a bit longer so it could maybe expand on the world in a more organic way. The writing style was also not my favorite. It felt like a lot of telling rather than showing. The dialogue of the characters was really clunky most of the time, which really goes along with the telling rather than showing issue. The characters just didn’t have a very natural way of speaking to one another or even to themselves.
All in all, I did enjoy the book. The plot was really great, but the writing style just wasn’t for me personally and I wish the world would have been expanded in an organic way. It was a quick read, though. If you’re looking for a low stakes, cozy fantasy read, this could be up your alley!
Thank you BookSirens and Cara Blaine for the ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
Curse of the Soul Collector is a new cozy fantasy about a witch named Alma and a prince named Lorenzo. I’ll start off by saying this book is for sure a low stakes, cozy fantasy book. A pretty large chunk of the book is devoted to showing a pretty domestic sort of life with the two MCs. I enjoyed that aspect, as I do tend to read fantasies that are higher stakes. It was nice to read about a world where magic exists without being constantly on edge and worried for the characters. There were certain points of this book where the characters were in danger, but it’s a very, very small chunk of the book. I enjoyed Alma and Lorenzo’s dynamic. They were fun and sweet together. It was the sort of dynamic that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
However, the world building in this book is extremely minimal, and I think it suffered for that. I wish it would have been a bit longer so it could maybe expand on the world in a more organic way. The writing style was also not my favorite. It felt like a lot of telling rather than showing. The dialogue of the characters was really clunky most of the time, which really goes along with the telling rather than showing issue. The characters just didn’t have a very natural way of speaking to one another or even to themselves.
All in all, I did enjoy the book. The plot was really great, but the writing style just wasn’t for me personally and I wish the world would have been expanded in an organic way. It was a quick read, though. If you’re looking for a low stakes, cozy fantasy read, this could be up your alley!
Thank you BookSirens and Cara Blaine for the ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
December 14, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
A story that gets the heart racing. Talk about adrenaline rushes but in word forms. That was this story for me. It wasn’t a love at first site. it wasn’t exactly a frenemies or enemies to lovers either. This was a “he and she are attractive” and under other circumstances-this could go in a different direction. Don’t worry -there is a HEA. And worth the wait.
Im a visual reader. I picture the scenes in my head and I appreciated the authors writing and descriptions. I snorted a few times. I teared up during other times. But that last half definitely had me doing the “one more chapter” and whoa! there was 2 am like “how did that happen?!”. Shock to me as well.
Alma is a strong (BA) independent woman (and witch) trying to live day to day. Surviving and often times fearful because there are still unknowns to her. The Prince (I’m sorry -I chuckled every time they said his WHOLE name), has good intentions-and his protective side had me Awe’ing and yes Sir! But he also suffered from communication (more like lack) -when it came to what he “planned” to do. But the relationship between Alma and Lorenzo was cute (and at times frustrating). Overall-I enjoyed the story
•Slow Burn
•Protective (on both sides)
•Alpha Male
•one bed
•Fairytale ending
•Fake Husband and Wife
•HEA
•Few kissing scenes but spice was 🌶️.5 (for me)
I received this as an ARC free from Booksirens and leave this review voluntarily.
🌶️.5
A story that gets the heart racing. Talk about adrenaline rushes but in word forms. That was this story for me. It wasn’t a love at first site. it wasn’t exactly a frenemies or enemies to lovers either. This was a “he and she are attractive” and under other circumstances-this could go in a different direction. Don’t worry -there is a HEA. And worth the wait.
Im a visual reader. I picture the scenes in my head and I appreciated the authors writing and descriptions. I snorted a few times. I teared up during other times. But that last half definitely had me doing the “one more chapter” and whoa! there was 2 am like “how did that happen?!”. Shock to me as well.
Alma is a strong (BA) independent woman (and witch) trying to live day to day. Surviving and often times fearful because there are still unknowns to her. The Prince (I’m sorry -I chuckled every time they said his WHOLE name), has good intentions-and his protective side had me Awe’ing and yes Sir! But he also suffered from communication (more like lack) -when it came to what he “planned” to do. But the relationship between Alma and Lorenzo was cute (and at times frustrating). Overall-I enjoyed the story
•Slow Burn
•Protective (on both sides)
•Alpha Male
•one bed
•Fairytale ending
•Fake Husband and Wife
•HEA
•Few kissing scenes but spice was 🌶️.5 (for me)
I received this as an ARC free from Booksirens and leave this review voluntarily.
December 7, 2023
If you enjoy fantasy romance, this book needs to be your next read. I am not even sure where to start with this review; there is just so much that I love about this book. It was the perfect balance of beautifully swoony romance and edge-of-your-seat adventure. This paired with Cara's beautiful and immersive writing made for an unputdownable book.
I loved the characters in this book. A villain who I hated with every bone in my body, to characters that you can't help but love that will steal your heart and have you still thinking about them long after the last page. Alma, a witch who has a hard time trusting and letting people into her life, is so kind, genuine, and easy to fall in love with. I loved seeing her grow and learn to love herself and her powers. Lorenzo will make you swoon. He is one of my favorite male main characters in all the books I have ever read. He is so caring and patient and wants nothing but for Alma to see that she is worthy of love and happiness.
The story starts cozy and sweet with unbelievably swoony romance, but very quickly moves into a much more high-stakes adventure filled with magic, new friends, and perilous situations.
This was the first story I have read by Cara, and it certainly will not be my last.
Thank you, Cara, for the ARC copy of Curse of the Soul Collector 🖤 I am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
I loved the characters in this book. A villain who I hated with every bone in my body, to characters that you can't help but love that will steal your heart and have you still thinking about them long after the last page. Alma, a witch who has a hard time trusting and letting people into her life, is so kind, genuine, and easy to fall in love with. I loved seeing her grow and learn to love herself and her powers. Lorenzo will make you swoon. He is one of my favorite male main characters in all the books I have ever read. He is so caring and patient and wants nothing but for Alma to see that she is worthy of love and happiness.
The story starts cozy and sweet with unbelievably swoony romance, but very quickly moves into a much more high-stakes adventure filled with magic, new friends, and perilous situations.
This was the first story I have read by Cara, and it certainly will not be my last.
Thank you, Cara, for the ARC copy of Curse of the Soul Collector 🖤 I am leaving an honest review voluntarily.
November 26, 2023
This book gave me all the fairytale vibes, and I enjoyed it very much. The plot seemed simple when I first read the blurb, but I liked the way the author had added complex scenes and some twists to keep things interesting.
The initial 70-80 pages made me feel that the book was more appropriate for teenagers even though it was marketed as NA, but once the real action started, I was glad I was wrong. It turned out to be better than I expected.
The characters were well written; their motives, feelings and behaviours were detailed which helped me form my opinions about them. Even the supporting characters were great and most of them were likeable.
I liked Alma's magical abilities, and the way its elements were explained throughout the book. Every discovery she made added to the story. However, I had some difficulty in understanding the details of the other magical abilities mentioned in the book.
The romance was sweet and the best part of the book. Alma and Lorenzo shared a great relationship based on mutual respect. I liked that he was protective of her but did not see her as a damsel in distress.
I recommend it to readers who enjoy sweet fantasy romances, fairytales with some conflict, adventures and happily ever afters. And how stunning is that cover! 😍
The initial 70-80 pages made me feel that the book was more appropriate for teenagers even though it was marketed as NA, but once the real action started, I was glad I was wrong. It turned out to be better than I expected.
The characters were well written; their motives, feelings and behaviours were detailed which helped me form my opinions about them. Even the supporting characters were great and most of them were likeable.
I liked Alma's magical abilities, and the way its elements were explained throughout the book. Every discovery she made added to the story. However, I had some difficulty in understanding the details of the other magical abilities mentioned in the book.
The romance was sweet and the best part of the book. Alma and Lorenzo shared a great relationship based on mutual respect. I liked that he was protective of her but did not see her as a damsel in distress.
I recommend it to readers who enjoy sweet fantasy romances, fairytales with some conflict, adventures and happily ever afters. And how stunning is that cover! 😍
December 2, 2023
❄️“ARC REVIEW”❄️
Curse of the Soul Collector by Cara Blaine
Genre: New Adult Fantasy
Books: Standalone
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶
Pub date: Dec 7, 2023
“He hurt her, Mat. We need to find him, because I need to kill him.”
Alma is the last surviving witch in her family and she stay in hiding due to her unique powers. For ten years she has remained undiscovered by the witch inquisitors. The day a dashing prince from another kingdom stumbled onto her doorstep lost and injured everything changes.
This books unique writing takes you into a witchy cottagecore fairytale world with spice, adventure and forbidden love. The author inspires the reader to believe that there is good in the the world despite some of the horrific things others do.
This book was an easy read and I finished it in a day! I couldn’t put it down.
Tropes:
⚔️ Forbidden love
🍃 Cottagecore/witch vibes
⚔️ Touch her and you die
🍃 One bed
⚔️ Badass MFC
🍃 Would do anything for her MMC
⚔️ He falls first
Thank you book sirens for a free advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Curse of the Soul Collector by Cara Blaine
Genre: New Adult Fantasy
Books: Standalone
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶
Pub date: Dec 7, 2023
“He hurt her, Mat. We need to find him, because I need to kill him.”
Alma is the last surviving witch in her family and she stay in hiding due to her unique powers. For ten years she has remained undiscovered by the witch inquisitors. The day a dashing prince from another kingdom stumbled onto her doorstep lost and injured everything changes.
This books unique writing takes you into a witchy cottagecore fairytale world with spice, adventure and forbidden love. The author inspires the reader to believe that there is good in the the world despite some of the horrific things others do.
This book was an easy read and I finished it in a day! I couldn’t put it down.
Tropes:
⚔️ Forbidden love
🍃 Cottagecore/witch vibes
⚔️ Touch her and you die
🍃 One bed
⚔️ Badass MFC
🍃 Would do anything for her MMC
⚔️ He falls first
Thank you book sirens for a free advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 3, 2023
I feel extremely honored to have gotten the chance to arc read this book! I highly recommend it! If you like witches, romance, magic, and charming princes, then this is the book for you!
The story follows a young witch named Alma who grapples with what to do when a prince named Lorenzo shows up after she has isolated herself from others for 10 years. Alma quickly falls for the charming prince, but has her own grief and fears about her magic that make their relationship difficult... not to mention the fact that she gets captured. I really enjoyed getting to see their romance blossom and I think Cara did a wonderful job building a world that is intriguing and easy to get lost in.
Overall, it is a cute, cozy novel that I think a lot of readers would really enjoy, even if fantasy isn't your preferred genre.
The story follows a young witch named Alma who grapples with what to do when a prince named Lorenzo shows up after she has isolated herself from others for 10 years. Alma quickly falls for the charming prince, but has her own grief and fears about her magic that make their relationship difficult... not to mention the fact that she gets captured. I really enjoyed getting to see their romance blossom and I think Cara did a wonderful job building a world that is intriguing and easy to get lost in.
Overall, it is a cute, cozy novel that I think a lot of readers would really enjoy, even if fantasy isn't your preferred genre.
December 7, 2023
I have been in a reading slump for almost 3 weeks. I had this advanced copy for some time and knew I needed to read it soon. Wow! It brought me right out of my slump! I hated to put it down!
This is a forbidden love, forced proximity, he fell first, suspenseful, cozy fantasy read. I loved it! I loved the characters of Alma and Lorenzo. Cara Blaine does a great job of developing these characters and creating this vivid world building that I could clearly see in my mind. I love how it felt I was there seeing it all unfold.
I would love to read future books about these two and some of the other characters we were introduced to, especially of Lady Emilia and Mateo.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of Curse of the Soul Collector. All opinions are of my own.
This is a forbidden love, forced proximity, he fell first, suspenseful, cozy fantasy read. I loved it! I loved the characters of Alma and Lorenzo. Cara Blaine does a great job of developing these characters and creating this vivid world building that I could clearly see in my mind. I love how it felt I was there seeing it all unfold.
I would love to read future books about these two and some of the other characters we were introduced to, especially of Lady Emilia and Mateo.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of Curse of the Soul Collector. All opinions are of my own.
December 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this novel! It had a really nice fairytale feel, and the characters were likable.
The book has a forbidden love theme focusing on a witch named Alma and a prince named Lorenzo. Alma had to overcome so much and it was great to watch her grow into her magic and her confidence. Lorenzo gave such golden retriever vibes. The romance between the two was very sweet and I was hooked and rooting for a HEA.
I would say it had more of a YA feel to me and low spice. Overall, I would give the novel 4.5 stars. It was easy to read and fast paced. I enjoyed the dialogue between the characters a lot as well.
Read if you like:
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Forced proximity
- He falls first
- Fake marriage
- Witch/ magic
Thank you book sirens for a free advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book has a forbidden love theme focusing on a witch named Alma and a prince named Lorenzo. Alma had to overcome so much and it was great to watch her grow into her magic and her confidence. Lorenzo gave such golden retriever vibes. The romance between the two was very sweet and I was hooked and rooting for a HEA.
I would say it had more of a YA feel to me and low spice. Overall, I would give the novel 4.5 stars. It was easy to read and fast paced. I enjoyed the dialogue between the characters a lot as well.
Read if you like:
- Slow burn
- One bed
- Forced proximity
- He falls first
- Fake marriage
- Witch/ magic
Thank you book sirens for a free advanced copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2023
Okay, I had a GREAT time reading this. This was hilarious. For the most part, the story was told very traditional fairytale. The prince and the commoner, moral of the story, happily ever after. They save the world with the power of their love, it’s about the friends you make along the way.
And then randomly, there will be a line or an action that is so completely out of character or with no context, that is would just set me off. Like, the bodice scene? IYKYK.
I was LIVING for those moments. Other than that, pretty cookie cutter cosy witchy romance. (I will admit it got a little “crafting survival items with my crafting table” at times and it was odd to read about used bed-pans) Leaned a little closer to cheesy than cosy for me at times, but I had such a fun time reading this!
//I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review//
And then randomly, there will be a line or an action that is so completely out of character or with no context, that is would just set me off. Like, the bodice scene? IYKYK.
I was LIVING for those moments. Other than that, pretty cookie cutter cosy witchy romance. (I will admit it got a little “crafting survival items with my crafting table” at times and it was odd to read about used bed-pans) Leaned a little closer to cheesy than cosy for me at times, but I had such a fun time reading this!
//I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review//
November 20, 2023
3.5/5 stars
Alma is a witch who has been in hiding from witch hunters for the past decade. An injured Prince Lorenzo comes knocking on her door and is forced to recover at her home for several weeks. Though society would forbid such a romantic pairing, the two cannot help but develop feelings for each other.
This was an enjoyable read, but I did struggle with the pacing and writing of this book as it ended up feeling more like an upper middle grade novel. I do think that lent itself more to a fairytale feel, HEA and all. If this book had been marketed as an upper middle grade novel, it easily would have been at least a 4 star read to me. I do think this was a cute fairytale read, great for any time of year.
Alma is a witch who has been in hiding from witch hunters for the past decade. An injured Prince Lorenzo comes knocking on her door and is forced to recover at her home for several weeks. Though society would forbid such a romantic pairing, the two cannot help but develop feelings for each other.
This was an enjoyable read, but I did struggle with the pacing and writing of this book as it ended up feeling more like an upper middle grade novel. I do think that lent itself more to a fairytale feel, HEA and all. If this book had been marketed as an upper middle grade novel, it easily would have been at least a 4 star read to me. I do think this was a cute fairytale read, great for any time of year.
October 3, 2025
Well written adult fairytale
I really enjoyed the nostalgic feel this book gave me. It reminded me of reading fairytales as a kid (but obviously, this one has adult themes!)
I really enjoyed the character development Alma the FMC went through. She put the work in herself and didn't need saving, although she wouldn't have minded it!
I also adored the relationships between all the female characters. They were all based on support and care. It gave a real wholesome vibe, which was definitely needed. It contrasted well with the darker themes that this book brought.
Pacing was a little too fast, I think if things were slowed down a little, there would be more tension and peril.
I really enjoyed the nostalgic feel this book gave me. It reminded me of reading fairytales as a kid (but obviously, this one has adult themes!)
I really enjoyed the character development Alma the FMC went through. She put the work in herself and didn't need saving, although she wouldn't have minded it!
I also adored the relationships between all the female characters. They were all based on support and care. It gave a real wholesome vibe, which was definitely needed. It contrasted well with the darker themes that this book brought.
Pacing was a little too fast, I think if things were slowed down a little, there would be more tension and peril.
October 18, 2023
This book was the perfect witchy romance! An easy read with sweet moments and a great pace of fantasy world building. The fantasy elements felt well integrated into the story and were easy to retain throughout later chapters.
Personally I love an older main character in my romance novels and Alma (25) is a fantastic, strong character. I loved her development throughout the story.
The writing felt immersive to me, I loved the descriptions of the cabin and Belengaria; they made the places feel vivid in my imagination and well lived in.
Overall a quick read for me, and perfect for the fall!
Personally I love an older main character in my romance novels and Alma (25) is a fantastic, strong character. I loved her development throughout the story.
The writing felt immersive to me, I loved the descriptions of the cabin and Belengaria; they made the places feel vivid in my imagination and well lived in.
Overall a quick read for me, and perfect for the fall!
November 26, 2023
3.75 stars!
I really enjoyed this book, I thought that the magic was cool and really found myself connecting with FMC. This story was fast moving but was still able to keep my interest and eager to see what came next.
I do wish that this was a duology so that we could delve more into how magic works in this world. I would have loved to have explored Alma's magic more and watched her grow into it. I feel like she had a very abrupt transformation, which fit the situation she was in but we then could have spent more time after with her trying it out.
Overall, I did have a great time reading this book and will be recommending it to friends
I really enjoyed this book, I thought that the magic was cool and really found myself connecting with FMC. This story was fast moving but was still able to keep my interest and eager to see what came next.
I do wish that this was a duology so that we could delve more into how magic works in this world. I would have loved to have explored Alma's magic more and watched her grow into it. I feel like she had a very abrupt transformation, which fit the situation she was in but we then could have spent more time after with her trying it out.
Overall, I did have a great time reading this book and will be recommending it to friends
December 1, 2023
The writing style on this one lost me. I wanted to love it for the story and characters but sadly that just was not the case. The writing made it hard to understand what was going on and really just kept taking me out of the story. I am not really sure what was wrong with it. But it just was not for me. The cover was the reason I wanted to read this but that was where the love ended. I think it really was because if you take out the one spicy part this is really just a middle grade/juvenile story. It didn't feel like New Adult or even Young Adult. And that with the content etc. Just made it feel really off.
December 20, 2023
I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about this book.
The premise is good. The different types of magic and how Alma learns to control and use her. And Lorenzo, the prince, who Alma helps after he is hurt seems like a well written character.
But something in it fell flat to me. Like the events that were happening were violent and scary. And even emotional and angsty. But the emotion fell flat to me. It was hard to emotionally invest in the book.
I’m not sure why it fell flat. But the overall storyline and characters are intriguing.
I received an ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
The premise is good. The different types of magic and how Alma learns to control and use her. And Lorenzo, the prince, who Alma helps after he is hurt seems like a well written character.
But something in it fell flat to me. Like the events that were happening were violent and scary. And even emotional and angsty. But the emotion fell flat to me. It was hard to emotionally invest in the book.
I’m not sure why it fell flat. But the overall storyline and characters are intriguing.
I received an ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
January 25, 2024
If you are looking for a quick read, with a lovable male love interest, this is a great choice. Some parts made me really love Lorenzo (I’ll leave those for you to discover!!) I do wish that the book was longer so that as a reader, we could grow more attached to the characters and experience more of the world crafted. Some things felt rushed that I felt could have really filled out the world or character personalities more. I really enjoyed the uniqueness of the different witch powers and enjoyed reading about Alma and hers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2023
Magical, intense, page turner. "While Alma grapples with her grief as well as her magic, she also must face her long held guilt about the death of her parents. Amid deceit and disloyalty, Lorenzo confronts the ultimate dilemma: duty versus true love." I really enjoyed this book. Cara gives us great characters and a beautiful love story. The story is well written. Can't wait to see what's next from Cara
Thank you to Cara for trusting me with your ARC, I have read and reviewed this book voluntarily and honestly
Thank you to Cara for trusting me with your ARC, I have read and reviewed this book voluntarily and honestly
December 23, 2023
This was an enjoyable book and an easy read! I liked the story, and it was a fun world to read about, but I had some issue with the characterization and word choice. In some interactions, the main characters responded with some fairly juvenile responses, especially for characters meant to be in their mid-20's. And other times, it felt like the words chosen didn't have the best flow. Both of these things pulled me out of the book a little bit, but overall I enjoyed this!
For clarity: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For clarity: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2023
Amazing truly a joy to read. Alma this Independent yet guarded witch mets her match in a handsome prince. This book is magic, I devoured it in one sitting I couldn't stop for the life of me. There are some near misses between the characters but you can tell that there is love between these two. With some help along the way for both Alma and Lorenzo will their story pan out? I guess you will have to read it and find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2023
I received this book as an ARC - my honest thoughts follow
Fantastic read
Follow the journey of an orphaned witch, without full knowledge of her power, just trying to stay alive and hidden
Enter a prince on a mission, sent by his parents to find a princess to marry- stumbling into the witches remote hideaway in the haunted forest
Danger and turmoil ensue, the witch rescues herself, finds her true powers and starts to rebuild her life
Re enter the prince, and the start of a new love and life for both
Thank you Cara for this story, I truly enjoyed it!
Fantastic read
Follow the journey of an orphaned witch, without full knowledge of her power, just trying to stay alive and hidden
Enter a prince on a mission, sent by his parents to find a princess to marry- stumbling into the witches remote hideaway in the haunted forest
Danger and turmoil ensue, the witch rescues herself, finds her true powers and starts to rebuild her life
Re enter the prince, and the start of a new love and life for both
Thank you Cara for this story, I truly enjoyed it!
October 24, 2023
Beautiful world building, vivid detail that makes you feel as though you can see it for yourself. Alma was the perfect main character who dealt with many struggles from teen years on. Lorenzo was a great addition to the story. I was anxiously turning pages to know what happened next.
If you love witchy, fantasy and romance, this is a great read. This isn’t typically my genre of reading but I am so glad I decided to read this!
If you love witchy, fantasy and romance, this is a great read. This isn’t typically my genre of reading but I am so glad I decided to read this!
November 6, 2023
This was an easy read and a great story. It was easy to fall in love with Alma our FMC she is independent and relatable while still being real and not overly complex. The story was smoothly written and easy to follow I would consider it a low-stakes Romance with some Fantasy. There were not many parts in the book that had me worried for our Character but the relationships were built nicely and the challenges were met with the appropriate attention.
December 2, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This was a good witchy romance. The characters are easily likeable, the storyline is well done. It's probably a higher rating in other people's eyes, I just don't think it was for me particularly so I'm not saying it's bad in any way! I like more complex story lines and this was a quick easy read, which is a nice change up now and again. 😊
Thank you to Cara, for allowing me to arc read for you! I did enjoy it, and the cover is so beautiful.
This was a good witchy romance. The characters are easily likeable, the storyline is well done. It's probably a higher rating in other people's eyes, I just don't think it was for me particularly so I'm not saying it's bad in any way! I like more complex story lines and this was a quick easy read, which is a nice change up now and again. 😊
Thank you to Cara, for allowing me to arc read for you! I did enjoy it, and the cover is so beautiful.
December 5, 2023
This is actually 3.5 stars for me.
A good cozy romantic fantasy with a fairytale feel to it.
It starts with a Prince that injures himself and a witch who heals him….
The writing style is easy and enjoyable to read. The main characters Prince Lorenzo and Witch Alma were flushed out and had decent dialogue. The Magic system was interesting!
I wish there was more world building and that there was more on the magic.
A good cozy romantic fantasy with a fairytale feel to it.
It starts with a Prince that injures himself and a witch who heals him….
The writing style is easy and enjoyable to read. The main characters Prince Lorenzo and Witch Alma were flushed out and had decent dialogue. The Magic system was interesting!
I wish there was more world building and that there was more on the magic.
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