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TruLove Universe #1
SoulMatch
As long as people look for love, someone will be there trying to make a profit on it.
SoulMatch promises people soulmates created just for them. The person simply needs to tell them what they want, give a little DNA, answer some questions, and in twenty-three years, a soulmate who loves them and is perfect for them in every way will be delivered. As people start creating soulmates for their children so that they don’t have to go out and find love themselves, the industry is booming.
But Theodora knows she wasn’t made for the man she’s supposed to marry in a few short months. She knows that because she doesn’t and can’t love any man – she was meant to love a woman. When one day, her best friend goes missing and a new student of SoulMatch School shows up in her place, everything changes fast for Theodora.
Avalon knows the secret of SoulMatch. When they’d tried to get her to conform, she’d resisted. Now, she’s the only one who can bring them down. She just needs a little help, and she thinks she can get it from the one person she’s been told to trust. The fact that Avalon is falling for that person and not for the man she’s meant to marry soon only complicates things further, but Avalon will have her revenge.
Avalon and Theodora will bring SoulMatch down because lives are at stake, and not just their own.
SoulMatch promises people soulmates created just for them. The person simply needs to tell them what they want, give a little DNA, answer some questions, and in twenty-three years, a soulmate who loves them and is perfect for them in every way will be delivered. As people start creating soulmates for their children so that they don’t have to go out and find love themselves, the industry is booming.
But Theodora knows she wasn’t made for the man she’s supposed to marry in a few short months. She knows that because she doesn’t and can’t love any man – she was meant to love a woman. When one day, her best friend goes missing and a new student of SoulMatch School shows up in her place, everything changes fast for Theodora.
Avalon knows the secret of SoulMatch. When they’d tried to get her to conform, she’d resisted. Now, she’s the only one who can bring them down. She just needs a little help, and she thinks she can get it from the one person she’s been told to trust. The fact that Avalon is falling for that person and not for the man she’s meant to marry soon only complicates things further, but Avalon will have her revenge.
Avalon and Theodora will bring SoulMatch down because lives are at stake, and not just their own.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2023
106 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pyland
79 books820 followersNicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance novels, including No After You, All the Love Songs, and the series like Chicago, San Francisco, Tahoe, Sports, Boston, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 30 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way!
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 7, 2023
'Arc provided by The Author in exchange for a honest review'
**'Each time a writer tells a story, readers becomes enchanted with it's complexity and even undergo any changes their characters go through then internalize the premise and give a proper insight..'
3.5stars!
From 'FUTURE WIFE' to 'VOGEUR' plus many series -- some that can be read as stand-alones, now comes with Ms. Pyland going a different route/genre in telling of scientific myth or better yet factoid theory of DNA matching or parents seeking the perfect child and when they become an adult they will have already being paired with another perfectly genetically adult. This system got totally screwed by a few who did not want to be with their paired partner but with someone else that they developed feelings for. These same few (both main & secondaries) whether being maligned to extricate themselves from this sordid program plus avoiding being caught and may be regarded when all i said and done as either villainesses or heroines.
As usual Pyland won't tell this story without including some kind of love story. Here she not only hone in on the two leads (Theodora & Avalon) with showing how they grew as lovers but even trickled in a few others which only adds to 'SOULMATCH: TRULOVE UNIVERSE' uniqueness and intrigue. Some of the storytelling is a bit interesting also because a majority is more scifi-ish while certain paragraphs focus on the trust in having friends that you can rely on and more.
Overall, readers will see both the parallels and semantics within this program and then all the emotional reactions of the higher-ups when everything gets leaked to the media -- and even knowing the truth, things or living on the outside then becomes a bit of a nuance to Theodora, Avalon and et al -- but it's way much better than before and they are free.
A recommended book!
**'Each time a writer tells a story, readers becomes enchanted with it's complexity and even undergo any changes their characters go through then internalize the premise and give a proper insight..'
3.5stars!
From 'FUTURE WIFE' to 'VOGEUR' plus many series -- some that can be read as stand-alones, now comes with Ms. Pyland going a different route/genre in telling of scientific myth or better yet factoid theory of DNA matching or parents seeking the perfect child and when they become an adult they will have already being paired with another perfectly genetically adult. This system got totally screwed by a few who did not want to be with their paired partner but with someone else that they developed feelings for. These same few (both main & secondaries) whether being maligned to extricate themselves from this sordid program plus avoiding being caught and may be regarded when all i said and done as either villainesses or heroines.
As usual Pyland won't tell this story without including some kind of love story. Here she not only hone in on the two leads (Theodora & Avalon) with showing how they grew as lovers but even trickled in a few others which only adds to 'SOULMATCH: TRULOVE UNIVERSE' uniqueness and intrigue. Some of the storytelling is a bit interesting also because a majority is more scifi-ish while certain paragraphs focus on the trust in having friends that you can rely on and more.
Overall, readers will see both the parallels and semantics within this program and then all the emotional reactions of the higher-ups when everything gets leaked to the media -- and even knowing the truth, things or living on the outside then becomes a bit of a nuance to Theodora, Avalon and et al -- but it's way much better than before and they are free.
A recommended book!
November 12, 2023
I’ve never read a Pyland book like this. I like that the author took a chance and wrote something that wasn’t her regular. I will not lie and say it’s the best sci-fi book I’ve read, it isn’t, but it is very entertaining and away from Pyland’s usual.
I took me until the 20-30% mark to really get into it, I think that’s more on me than the author. I went in with certain Pyland expectations and got not her standard fare.
I think it’s a fun story and I would like to see where other books in this universe go.
I took me until the 20-30% mark to really get into it, I think that’s more on me than the author. I went in with certain Pyland expectations and got not her standard fare.
I think it’s a fun story and I would like to see where other books in this universe go.
November 28, 2023
I've never read a Pyland book like this.
The hallmark of a great novel is when you know you'll never forget the story. This is that book for me. The storyline is so utterly unique even in the realm of sci fi. I'd really love to know what inspired it. Absolutely fascinating. And the thing about good sci fi? How on the edge of possibility it could be. Which is kinda scary in a way. And if you're worried about the sci fi it's honestly sci fi lite in my opinion. Just enough for you to be like, "Damn, I could see this happening."
The hallmark of a great novel is when you know you'll never forget the story. This is that book for me. The storyline is so utterly unique even in the realm of sci fi. I'd really love to know what inspired it. Absolutely fascinating. And the thing about good sci fi? How on the edge of possibility it could be. Which is kinda scary in a way. And if you're worried about the sci fi it's honestly sci fi lite in my opinion. Just enough for you to be like, "Damn, I could see this happening."
November 28, 2023
3.5 this is different from from the authors normal stuff, while this wasn’t my favorite it was still enjoyable. A bit slow all throughout the book. But it did have an interesting plot.
November 18, 2023
Not your typical Pyland book but I’m starting to believe she could write instruction manuals and I’d enjoy them! This dystopian story was still a romance at heart, Avalon and Thea’s story kept me glued to my kindle. It was full of romance and captivating as well. I truly enjoyed and recommend!
November 13, 2023
As someone who has, and will continue, to read every book Nicole Pyland publishes, it’s always a little thrilling when she branches out from the norm. (Not that I don’t love the norm, Pyland books are my go-to comfort reads).
SoulMatch is a sci-fi/dystopian romance, and the premise is imaginative and meticulously crafted. I can only imagine how much time was spent fine tuning every detail, ensuring a seamless storyline.
Thea and Avalon were born to be the perfect match to a stranger’s who ordered them through SoulMatch, who then methodically crafted them in a test tube, birthing them and bringing them into the world to learn their ‘true purpose.’
Thea and Avalon are different than most of their friends, however, because they are both sceptical and hesitant to believe that they will find the love of their lives in a man. When they meet, the attraction is almost simultaneous, and after carefully stepping around one another, they form an alliance to escape and bring down the company who have continuously claimed to be fool proof, while destroying the lives of thousands of innocent people.
Like all Pyland stories, the MCs are empowered and resilient women, fighting for their place in a world that continuously throws obstacles in their way. SoulMatch is suspenseful and intense, and it is hard not to think that sometimes it seems our own world could be headed into a similar direction.
SoulMatch is a sci-fi/dystopian romance, and the premise is imaginative and meticulously crafted. I can only imagine how much time was spent fine tuning every detail, ensuring a seamless storyline.
Thea and Avalon were born to be the perfect match to a stranger’s who ordered them through SoulMatch, who then methodically crafted them in a test tube, birthing them and bringing them into the world to learn their ‘true purpose.’
Thea and Avalon are different than most of their friends, however, because they are both sceptical and hesitant to believe that they will find the love of their lives in a man. When they meet, the attraction is almost simultaneous, and after carefully stepping around one another, they form an alliance to escape and bring down the company who have continuously claimed to be fool proof, while destroying the lives of thousands of innocent people.
Like all Pyland stories, the MCs are empowered and resilient women, fighting for their place in a world that continuously throws obstacles in their way. SoulMatch is suspenseful and intense, and it is hard not to think that sometimes it seems our own world could be headed into a similar direction.
November 16, 2023
I cannot express enough how much I recommend SoulMatch. I freaking love this book! It’s amazing! This isn’t your typical Nicole Pyland love story, it is so much more. Being a Sci-fi fan I was immediately drawn in from the start. It’s a little slow in the beginning to give you the background info, but then… the suspense, the anxiety. It was like a thrill ride/rollercoaster. The details that went into this book really brought the story alive. My heart was racing at points like I was right there with Thea and Avalon. I loved that after the introduction, it never lost my attention. I never saw some of the twists coming and was glad when some things I was afraid might happen, didn’t. Overall, my expectations were blown away. The whole story is exciting and thought provoking. It’s about fighting for what is right… love being included. I feel like a broken record now, but I loved everything about this book. It was simply enjoyable. You should definitely read this book!
Thea & Avalon and WHY I LIKE THEM:
I think one of the best parts of Nicole Pyland’s books are how relatable the characters are. I feel like there is always something you see in one of her characters that you can completely connect with. Thea and Avalon aren’t your typical characters though. With how they were created and raised it was harder for me to connect with them. BUT you do get to see them more at face value. They have their school friends, but other than that, it’s just Avalon and Thea … their relationship, their courage, and their drive to fight for what’s right no matter what the cost. They have each other and their “cause”… and they are willing to sacrifice all of it for the everyone else to get the same chance to have what they have and want. Talk about selfless characters. How could you not root for them!
Thea & Avalon and WHY I LIKE THEM:
I think one of the best parts of Nicole Pyland’s books are how relatable the characters are. I feel like there is always something you see in one of her characters that you can completely connect with. Thea and Avalon aren’t your typical characters though. With how they were created and raised it was harder for me to connect with them. BUT you do get to see them more at face value. They have their school friends, but other than that, it’s just Avalon and Thea … their relationship, their courage, and their drive to fight for what’s right no matter what the cost. They have each other and their “cause”… and they are willing to sacrifice all of it for the everyone else to get the same chance to have what they have and want. Talk about selfless characters. How could you not root for them!
November 19, 2023
Fast, action packed - but still romance!
Pyland is shaking things up again, this time diving into her new sci-fi/dystopian novel - SoulMatch - a standalone set in the TruLove universe.
With romance still at the core, this book is set in a futuristic world where we meet Theodora and Avalon. Theo and Ava were both made in test tubes and brought up to be the perfect partners for their paid "soulmates" at a company called SoulMatch. Their whole lives they are raised to believe they are the perfect match for their partners in the outside world. It's only when Theo and Ava start truly questioning everything they thought they knew that things start to really gear up - both for how they feel about each other, and what to do about SoulMatch.
This is definitely the most action packed novel I've read from Pyland. I enjoyed the adventure, danger and suspenseful aspects of the storyline, where the romance wasn't always at the forefront, but still threaded all the way through. Pyland created a somewhat scarily believable future world in some parts and definitely had you on the edge of your seat.
While sci-fi is not usually my go-to genre, it was an interesting change of pace and enjoyable read. It definitely has Brave New World vibes, for anyone that has read Aldous Huxley. Would recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Pyland is shaking things up again, this time diving into her new sci-fi/dystopian novel - SoulMatch - a standalone set in the TruLove universe.
With romance still at the core, this book is set in a futuristic world where we meet Theodora and Avalon. Theo and Ava were both made in test tubes and brought up to be the perfect partners for their paid "soulmates" at a company called SoulMatch. Their whole lives they are raised to believe they are the perfect match for their partners in the outside world. It's only when Theo and Ava start truly questioning everything they thought they knew that things start to really gear up - both for how they feel about each other, and what to do about SoulMatch.
This is definitely the most action packed novel I've read from Pyland. I enjoyed the adventure, danger and suspenseful aspects of the storyline, where the romance wasn't always at the forefront, but still threaded all the way through. Pyland created a somewhat scarily believable future world in some parts and definitely had you on the edge of your seat.
While sci-fi is not usually my go-to genre, it was an interesting change of pace and enjoyable read. It definitely has Brave New World vibes, for anyone that has read Aldous Huxley. Would recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 20, 2023
First foray into the genre of Sci-Fi
I’m not normally someone who reads Sci-Fi, but because I’m a big fan of Nicole Pyland’s work, I was eager to try a new genre. This book did not disappoint. The story had me hooked in from the beginning.
Being created in a test tube, then raised and trained without question to be the “perfect match” for the stranger who ordered you, was life for Thea and Avalon and the rest of the students at their school. There's supposed to be no questions, no deviation, and no original thought besides living the life as a perfect soulmate. However, when doubts about the authenticity of being made just for your “soulmate” start to arise for both Thea and Avalon, they realise the life they have been “made” for is all a lie.
As they discover the truth about SoulMatch, the company who created them and who runs the school they are in, they know they need to escape. However, escaping is not enough. They realise that in order to survive and to ever have a chance at love and happiness, they also need to take down SoulMatch.
After a slower start at the beginning of the book, to lay out the details of this futuristic/dystopian world. The book goes on to be full of angst, action, danger, and, of course, romance. For my first foray into the genre of Sci-Fi. I have to say this was a really great book, and I look forward to reading other books set in this universe if Nicole writes more.
I’m not normally someone who reads Sci-Fi, but because I’m a big fan of Nicole Pyland’s work, I was eager to try a new genre. This book did not disappoint. The story had me hooked in from the beginning.
Being created in a test tube, then raised and trained without question to be the “perfect match” for the stranger who ordered you, was life for Thea and Avalon and the rest of the students at their school. There's supposed to be no questions, no deviation, and no original thought besides living the life as a perfect soulmate. However, when doubts about the authenticity of being made just for your “soulmate” start to arise for both Thea and Avalon, they realise the life they have been “made” for is all a lie.
As they discover the truth about SoulMatch, the company who created them and who runs the school they are in, they know they need to escape. However, escaping is not enough. They realise that in order to survive and to ever have a chance at love and happiness, they also need to take down SoulMatch.
After a slower start at the beginning of the book, to lay out the details of this futuristic/dystopian world. The book goes on to be full of angst, action, danger, and, of course, romance. For my first foray into the genre of Sci-Fi. I have to say this was a really great book, and I look forward to reading other books set in this universe if Nicole writes more.
November 30, 2023
SoulMatch is a huge company that makes soul matches for those who are willing to pay for a ‘soul mate’. There’s even BabyMatch and OrganMatch.
Thea is one of those ‘soul mates’ for a man that she knows absolutely nothing about and isn’t happy. She’s an adult and would like to have control over her own life. SoulMatch and her 'parents' still wield control over what she’s allowed to do or even where she goes. All SoulMatch born soul mates are required to serve their soul mates and not their own desires. They’re supposed to like whatever the match likes in order to be the 'perfect' soul mate. One day her bff Claudia disappears and Avalon has moved into her place. Avalon was moved to Thea’s SoulMatch school to give Avalon another chance to behave or she would cease to exist. Unbeknownst to Thea, Avalon and Claudia have met in the long hallway to the ‘chair’. Avalon isn’t happy about moving schools or getting ‘new parents’. Avalon has visited the ‘chair’ and hides her real feelings behind her emotional mask. How does Avalon know who to trust, or for that matter, how to stop SoulMatch from doing what it’s doing? Does Avalon find someone(s) to help bring SoulMatch down?
For those answers I invite you to read SoulMatch by Nicole Pyland.
This is Nicole’s first sci-fi book and it was an interesting twisty world that she built. There’s even flying cars!
Thea is one of those ‘soul mates’ for a man that she knows absolutely nothing about and isn’t happy. She’s an adult and would like to have control over her own life. SoulMatch and her 'parents' still wield control over what she’s allowed to do or even where she goes. All SoulMatch born soul mates are required to serve their soul mates and not their own desires. They’re supposed to like whatever the match likes in order to be the 'perfect' soul mate. One day her bff Claudia disappears and Avalon has moved into her place. Avalon was moved to Thea’s SoulMatch school to give Avalon another chance to behave or she would cease to exist. Unbeknownst to Thea, Avalon and Claudia have met in the long hallway to the ‘chair’. Avalon isn’t happy about moving schools or getting ‘new parents’. Avalon has visited the ‘chair’ and hides her real feelings behind her emotional mask. How does Avalon know who to trust, or for that matter, how to stop SoulMatch from doing what it’s doing? Does Avalon find someone(s) to help bring SoulMatch down?
For those answers I invite you to read SoulMatch by Nicole Pyland.
This is Nicole’s first sci-fi book and it was an interesting twisty world that she built. There’s even flying cars!
November 30, 2023
While sci-fi is not Pyland’s typical genre, I found myself immersed in the TruLove universe that she has created with SoulMatch. I can only assume that Pyland spent a long time thinking and creating the world within this novel. She’s written so much detail into the story. The main premise is that the company, SoulMatch, claims they can create the perfect soulmate for someone by answering some questions and telling them what you want in your soulmate (oh and a little bit of DNA of course).
Both main characters question the validity of SoulMatch’s claims that they’re meant to marry men, when they both know that they are attracted to women. Together they team up to escape and gather evidence to take down SoulMatch. Throughout this plan they fall in love with one another.
The story has plenty of suspense and the MC’s fight tirelessly against all odds to give everyone the right to choose their own happy ending. There’s a lot of parallels that we can make from this story to our own world and I think that’s why this story resonated with me as much as it did.
**ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review**
Both main characters question the validity of SoulMatch’s claims that they’re meant to marry men, when they both know that they are attracted to women. Together they team up to escape and gather evidence to take down SoulMatch. Throughout this plan they fall in love with one another.
The story has plenty of suspense and the MC’s fight tirelessly against all odds to give everyone the right to choose their own happy ending. There’s a lot of parallels that we can make from this story to our own world and I think that’s why this story resonated with me as much as it did.
**ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review**
November 17, 2023
Another great book from Nicole Pyland. I really enjoy her books. This book was a little different then most books she normally write. While she did manage to still give us a nice love story, this book keep me more hooked on the mission happening. It kept me up late a couple nights because I just had to find out what was going to happened. So that was a nice change then just focused on the love story. I truly enjoyed it. I would say that another great book like this from this author would be Future Wife.
The story is about a girl named Theodora who was raise to believe that she belong to a certain person. She lived a whole life just to learn to be the perfect match for this person. Avalon is a student who just relocated to the school and she is different. Her and Theodora become friends then before you know it, everything that they were told to be true is not true at all.
I think its a great book to see how 2 people can come together to make such a huge change while also falling in love!!
The story is about a girl named Theodora who was raise to believe that she belong to a certain person. She lived a whole life just to learn to be the perfect match for this person. Avalon is a student who just relocated to the school and she is different. Her and Theodora become friends then before you know it, everything that they were told to be true is not true at all.
I think its a great book to see how 2 people can come together to make such a huge change while also falling in love!!
November 15, 2023
SoulMatch by Nicole Pyland is an entertaining Sci-Fi Romance, with a difference that kept me turning the pages. The thought of a place such as SoulMatch existing and creating someone’s perfect partner from DNA is insane, but scarily plausible.
Theodora and Avalon were tailor made to fulfil the exact needs and desires of their respective partners. Their friendship and chemistry flourish as they question events and join forces.
Nicole never ceases to amaze me as she effortlessly switches between the genres, throwing in some unexpected twists which I did not see coming. The attention to detail in the worldbuilding and the depth of the main characters, Theo and Ava, made the story come alive for me. A thought provoking and memorable read, now for some timeout to digest thoughts. Let's hope Nicole continues to delight us with more captivating Sci-Fi stories in the future.
An ARC received for my honest review.
Theodora and Avalon were tailor made to fulfil the exact needs and desires of their respective partners. Their friendship and chemistry flourish as they question events and join forces.
Nicole never ceases to amaze me as she effortlessly switches between the genres, throwing in some unexpected twists which I did not see coming. The attention to detail in the worldbuilding and the depth of the main characters, Theo and Ava, made the story come alive for me. A thought provoking and memorable read, now for some timeout to digest thoughts. Let's hope Nicole continues to delight us with more captivating Sci-Fi stories in the future.
An ARC received for my honest review.
March 11, 2024
Belief is a powerful force
This is one of the best stories I have read in a long time. Corporate greed run amok and corruption at every level of society are not the most disturbing aspect of this story. Nor is the technology or the environmental disaster of climate change. The truly terrifying thing is that human belief can create a truth that true believers will kill and/or die for. In this case the belief that some people matter and others don’t keep the evil machine that is SoulMatch running. When Thea questions that belief, she lets herself see that same questioning in others, especially in Avalon, a new woman resident at her SoulMatch school. Avalon makes Thea feel something that she has been told all her life should be reserved for the man she was created for as his soulmate. How can what SoulMatch taught her every second of every day be true if she has these feelings? And if those things weren’t true, what else could SoulMatch be lying about?
This is one of the best stories I have read in a long time. Corporate greed run amok and corruption at every level of society are not the most disturbing aspect of this story. Nor is the technology or the environmental disaster of climate change. The truly terrifying thing is that human belief can create a truth that true believers will kill and/or die for. In this case the belief that some people matter and others don’t keep the evil machine that is SoulMatch running. When Thea questions that belief, she lets herself see that same questioning in others, especially in Avalon, a new woman resident at her SoulMatch school. Avalon makes Thea feel something that she has been told all her life should be reserved for the man she was created for as his soulmate. How can what SoulMatch taught her every second of every day be true if she has these feelings? And if those things weren’t true, what else could SoulMatch be lying about?
November 16, 2023
Engaging, Compelling & Thought Provoking
Nicole Pyland pushes writing boundaries again with her new foray into a sci-fi, dystopian story. Not surprisingly, she does a fantastic job.
This book has all the elements needed for greatness: compelling plot, likeable characters, and contemptible villains. Plus in true Pyland fashion, the reader gets to enjoy a sweet romance with a hint of steam.
I also appreciate how Pyland introduces themes encouraging the reader to think. For example, if for your entire life your thoughts and activities are controlled by someone else, who are you really? What happens when you discover personal likes and dislikes? And how do you react when you realize everything you’ve been taught to believe is a lie?
Read SoulMatch and you can answer those questions for yourself.
Nicole Pyland pushes writing boundaries again with her new foray into a sci-fi, dystopian story. Not surprisingly, she does a fantastic job.
This book has all the elements needed for greatness: compelling plot, likeable characters, and contemptible villains. Plus in true Pyland fashion, the reader gets to enjoy a sweet romance with a hint of steam.
I also appreciate how Pyland introduces themes encouraging the reader to think. For example, if for your entire life your thoughts and activities are controlled by someone else, who are you really? What happens when you discover personal likes and dislikes? And how do you react when you realize everything you’ve been taught to believe is a lie?
Read SoulMatch and you can answer those questions for yourself.
November 24, 2023
Another home run for this Author. Embark on an enchanting journey with "Soul Match" by Nicole Pyland, where the captivating plot weaves effortlessly alongside the nuanced development of characters, such as the unforgettable Thea and Avalon. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of their relationships, where Pyland artfully layers emotions and experiences throughout the narrative. What makes this book truly special is the characters’ empowering choices, their bravery and convictions to create changes for others that transcend it beyond a mere love story. Nicole Pyland's remarkable talent shines through as she delicately crafts a compelling and authentic love narrative, ensuring that "Soul Match" becomes a profoundly engaging and meaningful experience for every reader. Don't miss out on this literary gem that promises both depth and heart.
December 2, 2023
Ok, this one was difficult for me to read. I generally don't read dystopian novels, I just don't like them. It took me a while to get into this one. Pay attention to the disclaimers on this one. It's a dystopian horror novel with clean sheets and bubble gum? Reading this, I kinda felt like the first time I watched Planet of the Apes and Charlton Heston digs up the Statue of Liberty and realizes he's on his own earth in the future and we beeped it all up. So as I'm reading the opening of the novel (I missed, or forgot about the disclaimers) the dread of what did we do, as a society, that it's just ok to be raising young women like cattle for their upcoming masters. You get little bits and pieces as the story reveals itself. Then you sit back and think, oh yeah, we have two young ladies who are trying to fall in love here. How's that going to work out? Read and find out.
November 16, 2023
This was a fun adventure that seems a departure from the typical Pyland book. Thea and Avalon meet at SoulMatch School, they were both born into the program to become the perfect soulmate to a SoulMatch customer. Things have gotten off track though and Avalon is transferred to Thea's school after she starts questioning the promises SoulMatch is making. The two end up on a rollercoaster ride as they try to find out the truth and create a world where they can live as they want. This futuristic world Pyland has created is different and I really liked these two MCs. They both are quite young but are old enough to begin understating their own feelings and want to pursue a life that will make them happy. The corporate intrigue here was fun and I liked the journey these two take. I do think there may be a bit of an issue with some of Avalon's technical ability being far beyond what I would say is believable but it makes for a fun story and helps push the plot along. I also hope to see a bit more world building outside of the school in the next one, there were some snippets but I feel it's missing a bit of background here. As a first book in the science fiction world I think it was very well done and I'm hopeful we'll see more books in this series.
November 19, 2023
Loved
Finding your soulmate has a foundation of science. Pheromones mixed with influx of heightened emotions, body registering changes of breathing and temperature.
The initial reaction to finding the one is scientifically accurate. Although, many cultures have some arranged marriages in the past and some cultures still have it. Finding the one organically can sometimes take time. And often not we all rush into it. Our society has deemed a time stamped to when we all should fall in love, when to have children instead of finding love in ourselves first and letting nature take its course. We all have that one person on our lives that is meant for us. Trust the universe that the path we travel with lead us to our own HEA.
Finding your soulmate has a foundation of science. Pheromones mixed with influx of heightened emotions, body registering changes of breathing and temperature.
The initial reaction to finding the one is scientifically accurate. Although, many cultures have some arranged marriages in the past and some cultures still have it. Finding the one organically can sometimes take time. And often not we all rush into it. Our society has deemed a time stamped to when we all should fall in love, when to have children instead of finding love in ourselves first and letting nature take its course. We all have that one person on our lives that is meant for us. Trust the universe that the path we travel with lead us to our own HEA.
November 20, 2023
PLEASANT SURPRISE…
I don’t like sci-fi, but I am a major fan of Nicole Pyland! So, in spite of my apprehension about sci-fi, I decided to read SOULMATCH. It was a slow start and took longer than average to read the first 45% or so. However, it finally came alive and I loved it.
In my opinion it is a treatise on the patriarchy that most of us have lived under.Man, head of household and everyone else in the family, unless they are males, must conform and never have an opinion. I’m a proud feminist and bow to no MAN.
Nicole Pyland has done it again and she has successfully bent this new genre, for her, to her will.
I don’t like sci-fi, but I am a major fan of Nicole Pyland! So, in spite of my apprehension about sci-fi, I decided to read SOULMATCH. It was a slow start and took longer than average to read the first 45% or so. However, it finally came alive and I loved it.
In my opinion it is a treatise on the patriarchy that most of us have lived under.Man, head of household and everyone else in the family, unless they are males, must conform and never have an opinion. I’m a proud feminist and bow to no MAN.
Nicole Pyland has done it again and she has successfully bent this new genre, for her, to her will.
November 22, 2023
“The best sci-fi isn’t so far out of this world that you can’t relate to it. “ Nicole Pyland blog
This is the essence of this sci-fi story. It’s really a romance set in a very relatable futuristic world. It presents an interesting, thought provoking and sadly conceivable sci-fi storyline where climate change has devastating impacts and scientific advancement goes wrong. It may be “sci-fi” but the heart of the is the love between likable and courageous young women. They are willing to risk everything for each other and the greater good.
Don’t be scared off by the Sci-fi label. This is a compelling love story set in a future that’s not that hard to imagine. I highly recommend this book.
This is the essence of this sci-fi story. It’s really a romance set in a very relatable futuristic world. It presents an interesting, thought provoking and sadly conceivable sci-fi storyline where climate change has devastating impacts and scientific advancement goes wrong. It may be “sci-fi” but the heart of the is the love between likable and courageous young women. They are willing to risk everything for each other and the greater good.
Don’t be scared off by the Sci-fi label. This is a compelling love story set in a future that’s not that hard to imagine. I highly recommend this book.
December 15, 2023
What an idea for a story!
I have not read A Handmaid’s Tale, but the premise of it disturbed me so much that I couldn’t bring myself to. This story is in some ways as disturbing a concept as Handmaid’s, and yet knowing greedy corporations, it is not an impossible concept. I love a good sci-fi story, and this is in many ways a good, futuristic sci-fi. Thankfully, there is a relationship story at the heart of this tale. The beginning of the book is like the uphill part of the biggest roller coaster wave. And the last half is the race down the slope you just crested. This story’s great momentum and very compelling sequence of events makes for such a good read.
I have not read A Handmaid’s Tale, but the premise of it disturbed me so much that I couldn’t bring myself to. This story is in some ways as disturbing a concept as Handmaid’s, and yet knowing greedy corporations, it is not an impossible concept. I love a good sci-fi story, and this is in many ways a good, futuristic sci-fi. Thankfully, there is a relationship story at the heart of this tale. The beginning of the book is like the uphill part of the biggest roller coaster wave. And the last half is the race down the slope you just crested. This story’s great momentum and very compelling sequence of events makes for such a good read.
November 19, 2023
This book was a pretty interesting read for me. I did enjoy it. I was surprised to find out that Nicole Pyland was branching out and wrote a sci-fi book. I'm not a huge sci-fi reader but I'm a fan of Nicole's writing and love her books so I knew I would read this one. I love the story it was definitely interesting. Thea and Avalon are strong women who are overcoming alot of hardships in their lives. Only to finally be themselves and are able to find love. Give this book a read. I don't think you'll be disappointed I'm adding another book to my shelf!
November 21, 2023
Nicole Pyland’s has gifted us another must read in her first Sci-Fi novel, SoulMatch. Thea & Avalon’s story is a thrilling, fast-paced, and compelling journey towards love. Thea & Avalon are women who find the courage to fight for happiness not just for themselves but for others despite what they may have to sacrifice. These two MCs are intriguing characters, and you can’t turn the page quick enough to read this suspenseful story. I highly recommend this latest release from Nicole Pyland and you will not be disappointed in this intriguing trip into the world of SoulMatch.
November 22, 2023
Let me start off by saying, not a big sci-fi fan when reading. Although I have to say I loved this book! The things that Avalon and Thea went through to take down a multi-billion dollar company! Some say that really can't be possible. But if you think about it Soul Match created their own undoing. The fight that Avalon, Thea, Sahara, and Myria had was fantastic! The way Nicole portrayed these characters as strong women was awesome!! I mean it had me ready to take down a multi-billion dollar company! Thank you Nicole for sharing this fabulous universe with us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2023
After reading SoulMatch, it gave me a futuristic, queer, The Giver type vibe, and I'm here for it. It's definitely very different from Nicole Pyland's other works, but I love that she's expanding her collection to more than just your typical HEA story.
Loved the connection between Thea and Avalon - felt a bit slow burn, but I wished there was a bit of set-up for a potential story for the supporting cast in this book. Would love to get to know more of Jacoby's and Sahara's story. Can't wait to read the prequel though!
Loved the connection between Thea and Avalon - felt a bit slow burn, but I wished there was a bit of set-up for a potential story for the supporting cast in this book. Would love to get to know more of Jacoby's and Sahara's story. Can't wait to read the prequel though!
December 21, 2023
More than meets the eyes
As a fan of Sci-fi and romance, I knew that this book had a bit of a Sci-fi element to it.
Having read the prequel, I was curious how the story would be different from the awesome prequel already consumed... and I was blown away.
Without any warning, you get thrown into a world of Sci-fi, intrigue, slow burning romance, beautiful description of physical discoveries - all tied up neatly with a very believable and descriptive environment.
Loved the story. ❤️
As a fan of Sci-fi and romance, I knew that this book had a bit of a Sci-fi element to it.
Having read the prequel, I was curious how the story would be different from the awesome prequel already consumed... and I was blown away.
Without any warning, you get thrown into a world of Sci-fi, intrigue, slow burning romance, beautiful description of physical discoveries - all tied up neatly with a very believable and descriptive environment.
Loved the story. ❤️
November 15, 2023
This story is quite different from Nicole Pyland’s normal story lines. I found the concept of SoulMatch quite terrifying as the thought of someone choosing your soulmate or simply creating your soulmate is crazy! That being said I found this book quite interesting. The story started off slowly but about a quarter of the way through picks up nicely and though I found the concept scary the way Nicole was able to create the storyline and bring in characters you’ll root for is always a class act.
November 20, 2023
Nicole ventures away from her norm and does a pretty good job. I like that she has the courage to try new things with her stories. Maybe not her best book, but it is a great way to dip her toes into the sci-fi genre. I think you’ll enjoy this adventure filled story and it may have you asking yourself, What if?
November 23, 2023
I’m very new to science fiction, so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first started reading this. It took me a while to get into the story, maybe because it’s so different from what I usually read.
Avalon and Theodora’s story takes many twists and turns along the way. I enjoyed the suspense/romance balance of their story. Overall, a really enjoyable read.
Avalon and Theodora’s story takes many twists and turns along the way. I enjoyed the suspense/romance balance of their story. Overall, a really enjoyable read.
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