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A Soul Divided
All seems lost when Olivia, princess of the space-faring Human Empire, is taken captive by a powerful new agent of the Mystic Empire. Her only chance at survival comes from the most unlikely of the Mystics themselves.
Drake Ashbell will forever avoid returning to his roots as the prince of the Mystics, especially after being exiled because of his use of forbidden magic. But was it really his fault that it had ended with him murdering thousands of innocents? Technically yes. Even so, he’s satisfied with his new and nearly honorable life pirating through space. Until his pirating escapades lead him to a train car full of captive women. He is no rescuing hero but reluctantly takes on the job when things turn personal and when “personal” turns royal. Little does he know, triumphing over galactic threats will require more than confronting his tragic past with forbidden magic; it will test the limits of his soul.
Drake Ashbell will forever avoid returning to his roots as the prince of the Mystics, especially after being exiled because of his use of forbidden magic. But was it really his fault that it had ended with him murdering thousands of innocents? Technically yes. Even so, he’s satisfied with his new and nearly honorable life pirating through space. Until his pirating escapades lead him to a train car full of captive women. He is no rescuing hero but reluctantly takes on the job when things turn personal and when “personal” turns royal. Little does he know, triumphing over galactic threats will require more than confronting his tragic past with forbidden magic; it will test the limits of his soul.
- GenresScience Fiction
699 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2014
About the author
Daniel M. Quilter
7 books22 followersDaniel M Quilter is the multi-genre author of the sprawling space opera, the Blood-Fire Trilogy, and the imaginative portal fantasy series, the Cross-Road Travelers. He's also the author of several stand-alone novels, such as Rust-Kicker, the story of a fire department in a town where everyone has a pet dragon.
When he's not writing, Daniel enjoys camping, hiking, rock-climbing, and riding his motorcycle.
When he's not writing, Daniel enjoys camping, hiking, rock-climbing, and riding his motorcycle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 29, 2019
Space pirates.
This indie story was just FUN. It’s fast-paced and clever and light-hearted most of the time.
The hero reminds me of these guys:
Maybe that’s cliched, but we still love them. He gets in and out of tight spots so often, I was impressed at the imagination needed to keep that up. It is almost too fast-paced; a couple more moments of some calm introspection would have made it just right.
It was enjoyable the whole time, and I sure hope the sequel is out somewhere. It just needs a copy editor really really really badly. Otherwise, this could be 5 stars.
Book Blog
This indie story was just FUN. It’s fast-paced and clever and light-hearted most of the time.
The hero reminds me of these guys:
Maybe that’s cliched, but we still love them. He gets in and out of tight spots so often, I was impressed at the imagination needed to keep that up. It is almost too fast-paced; a couple more moments of some calm introspection would have made it just right.
It was enjoyable the whole time, and I sure hope the sequel is out somewhere. It just needs a copy editor really really really badly. Otherwise, this could be 5 stars.
Book Blog
January 29, 2026
I loved this book; it ended up being in my top 5 favorite books of 2025
SFF BLEND / EPIC SPACE ADVENTURES/ UNLIKELY HERO / UNIQUE MAGIC / ENEMIES TO ALLIES / ROMANCE / PAST PACED / SNARKY HUMOR / STAR WARS VIBES / FUN BANTER/ FUTURISTIC TECH
WHAT IS THERE NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK?!?!
Drake is one of my favorite MC's & he reminds me a good bit of Han Solo. I breezed through the audiobook, even though this book is a chonker - at 699 pages long.
The world building & magic is so unique, immersive & honestly just a really fun time. We gradually learn about the world, magic, races & even the racism amongst them - which serves as a pretty important plot point. Daniel does an excellent job forming the magic system with mostly little confusion. The way the futuristic tech is interconnected with magic is really neat as well. This is something I found especially fascinating throughout & can't wait to get more of it in book 2.
The humorous banter/dialogue is a blast & Drake's character voice is something that strongly sets the tone of the book. It is really hard not to love Drake - and laugh & be charmed by him. I loved getting more of his backstory & watching the mystery of his magic & trauma unfold, as well as getting the story of what happened to both him & his brother.
The villains are dynamic & I enjoyed the unpredictable twists in the plot. There is a bit of a slow burn romance as well, which is very realistic & genuine. The romance is challenged with their glaring differences & flaws which makes for a really relatable relationship.
The friendships are also pretty great, with unlikely bonds being formed. I was impressed by the character development in all 4 of our MC's. I especially enjoyed watching the relationship between Drake & Vahn - estranged half-brothers. The females held their own in a realistic way without it feeling forced or annoying. Overall, this story has a bit of everything that I really love!
SFF BLEND / EPIC SPACE ADVENTURES/ UNLIKELY HERO / UNIQUE MAGIC / ENEMIES TO ALLIES / ROMANCE / PAST PACED / SNARKY HUMOR / STAR WARS VIBES / FUN BANTER/ FUTURISTIC TECH
WHAT IS THERE NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK?!?!
Drake is one of my favorite MC's & he reminds me a good bit of Han Solo. I breezed through the audiobook, even though this book is a chonker - at 699 pages long.
The world building & magic is so unique, immersive & honestly just a really fun time. We gradually learn about the world, magic, races & even the racism amongst them - which serves as a pretty important plot point. Daniel does an excellent job forming the magic system with mostly little confusion. The way the futuristic tech is interconnected with magic is really neat as well. This is something I found especially fascinating throughout & can't wait to get more of it in book 2.
The humorous banter/dialogue is a blast & Drake's character voice is something that strongly sets the tone of the book. It is really hard not to love Drake - and laugh & be charmed by him. I loved getting more of his backstory & watching the mystery of his magic & trauma unfold, as well as getting the story of what happened to both him & his brother.
The villains are dynamic & I enjoyed the unpredictable twists in the plot. There is a bit of a slow burn romance as well, which is very realistic & genuine. The romance is challenged with their glaring differences & flaws which makes for a really relatable relationship.
The friendships are also pretty great, with unlikely bonds being formed. I was impressed by the character development in all 4 of our MC's. I especially enjoyed watching the relationship between Drake & Vahn - estranged half-brothers. The females held their own in a realistic way without it feeling forced or annoying. Overall, this story has a bit of everything that I really love!
February 29, 2016
I had a blast reading this really fun, creative, and action-packed book. The main character, Drake, is really likable, and he makes you root for him, even though he's already got luck on his side. Even the creepy "anti-luck" seems like he's got much more to him than we know.
The only problem with the book is the somewhat typical damsel in distress type female characters. Sure, they're snarky and sassy, but they can't fight or do much on their own, and they know it. I can only hope there is a stronger female character in the next book of the series. Despite the slight flaws, I really look forward to reading the next book! It was like reading a combo of Firefly and Star Wars. Totally enjoyable, and I highly recommend!
The only problem with the book is the somewhat typical damsel in distress type female characters. Sure, they're snarky and sassy, but they can't fight or do much on their own, and they know it. I can only hope there is a stronger female character in the next book of the series. Despite the slight flaws, I really look forward to reading the next book! It was like reading a combo of Firefly and Star Wars. Totally enjoyable, and I highly recommend!
October 12, 2025
“The value of a person, much like the value of gold, is not determined by what they are right now, or what they have been in the past, but by what they can become”
A soul divided is a wild ride that grabs you right from the jump! It’s super fast-paced and kicks off with Princess Olivia, daughter of an important King, going missing.
Two brothers, living totally different lives, get roped into finding her. You’ve got Vahn, a steadfast soldier who’s all about doing the right thing and proving he’s got what it takes. Then there’s Drake, a snarky outlaw with mysterious supernatural gift, who reluctantly joins the quest to make up for his shady past. We also have some side characters that I found to be quite enjoyable (except Celestia) 😂 I’m sorry. Even some of the villains are easy to like.
The writing? So good! It’s descriptive without being heavy, so you can
picture everything and just breeze through it. I hate having to compare this to Star Wars, but that’s the vibe I was getting except the author adds his own distinctive lore and original magic system.
Only hiccup was near the end, something about memories and taboos got a bit messy and confusing, but I powered through and came to understand it. The story does wrap up well and it’s clear there will be a book 2.
If your looking for an actioned packed sci fi read this is for you.
A soul divided is a wild ride that grabs you right from the jump! It’s super fast-paced and kicks off with Princess Olivia, daughter of an important King, going missing.
Two brothers, living totally different lives, get roped into finding her. You’ve got Vahn, a steadfast soldier who’s all about doing the right thing and proving he’s got what it takes. Then there’s Drake, a snarky outlaw with mysterious supernatural gift, who reluctantly joins the quest to make up for his shady past. We also have some side characters that I found to be quite enjoyable (except Celestia) 😂 I’m sorry. Even some of the villains are easy to like.
The writing? So good! It’s descriptive without being heavy, so you can
picture everything and just breeze through it. I hate having to compare this to Star Wars, but that’s the vibe I was getting except the author adds his own distinctive lore and original magic system.
Only hiccup was near the end, something about memories and taboos got a bit messy and confusing, but I powered through and came to understand it. The story does wrap up well and it’s clear there will be a book 2.
If your looking for an actioned packed sci fi read this is for you.
January 18, 2026
3.5
Drake was a great main character and there was a lot of funny banter. The worldbuilding was cool and I think book 2 will be awesome!
I definitely felt like the novel meandered at times and could have been a couple hundred pages shorter without losing anything. Also, some of the side characters like Vahn and Olivia didn’t get the same development as Drake. However, I was hooked by Drake and I liked him and Angela, so I was happily along for the ride til the end.
Drake was a great main character and there was a lot of funny banter. The worldbuilding was cool and I think book 2 will be awesome!
I definitely felt like the novel meandered at times and could have been a couple hundred pages shorter without losing anything. Also, some of the side characters like Vahn and Olivia didn’t get the same development as Drake. However, I was hooked by Drake and I liked him and Angela, so I was happily along for the ride til the end.
May 13, 2026
4.25 stars
This was a fantastic story! And I really fell in love with the MMC, Drake. He was flawed, he was brutal, he was revengeful but he also was a man with true feelings while dealing with his inner demons.
I was not a fan of the author using the same slang words over and over. And I don’t mind when an author has a character having thoughts spoken out loud, but please authors STOP HAVING THE THOUGHTS ALWAYS BE IN QUESTION FORM.
This was a fantastic story! And I really fell in love with the MMC, Drake. He was flawed, he was brutal, he was revengeful but he also was a man with true feelings while dealing with his inner demons.
I was not a fan of the author using the same slang words over and over. And I don’t mind when an author has a character having thoughts spoken out loud, but please authors STOP HAVING THE THOUGHTS ALWAYS BE IN QUESTION FORM.
February 25, 2018
Last week I downloaded a science fiction novel called “A Soul Divided” from Amazon with the intention of writing a review. I’d done my research and looked at reviews on Goodreads and Amazon and hadn’t seen a rating below 4 stars. I’d also read the Amazon preview chapters and even though it wasn’t wonderful writing there was just enough interest as a concept to go that step further and hit the ‘buy’ button. I’ve read a lot of books that start off mundanely only to exceed all expectations. Unfortunately, “A Soul Divided” wasn’t one of those books.
Daniel M. Quilter’s style is upbeat with lots of witty dialogue to slow the story down. Did I just say slow the story down? The dialogue was a bit of a problem for me in that it dominated the book. In most novels, there is attention to such elements as plot, scene, characters, even how the characters feel about things. Not in this book, it is dialogue driven. Almost as if it was written as a script for a movie (god forbid). Oh, and the dialogue wasn’t that witty either, more of a high school banter that fails to work for the most part.
In reviewing this book, I think that it’s only fair that I review the reviews as well. After all, I purchased the book based on four and five-star reviews. I need to ask the question, are the reviewers in any way related, known to or affiliated with Daniel M Quilter? While I appreciate that everyone has an opinion I find some of the comments peculiar, prompting to ask, did they read the same book that I did? A few examples.
The characters' vibrant personalities add depth to this fast-paced science fiction adventure.
Characterisation was one dimensional, I think a comic book would have developed personalities far more completely. It certainly was fast paced. Too much so for any semblance of reality. Even given the existence of a ‘Tachyon drive’ which could shorten travel between planets to instantaneous transition I think it a bit farfetched that someone a couple of planets, or was it star systems away, talking on some super high tech telephone, could just say, “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”
I LOVED this great sci-fi fantasy story
Now, what is it? I’ve seen this trend evolving with authors who don’t know what to write. It needs to be either sci-fi or fantasy, not both, please. Yes, this author has started out with what appeared to be science fiction, as read in the Amazon preview chapters, then allowed the story to devolve into a free for all with the central characters possessing magical powers far in advance of technology. I know some will run out the old Arthur C. Clarke quote on technology and magic but at no point does the author attempt to rationalise the magic in any sort of logical science-based format.
Vhy' Rai is an extremely interesting magic system. It's three laws are complex and well thought out.
Perhaps the magic would have been interesting if the author had decided to explain it a bit more but like everything about this story it is just thrown in there as a series of discoveries used to solve a problem rather than adding to the overall enjoyment of the book. At this point, I realised that I'd been conned by a book that pretends to be a 4.5 star offering.
Some of the reviewers, to give them some credit, did offer criticisms. Unfortunately, they also gave the book 4 stars. This comment:
I'd give it a 3.5 star if allowed because there was no resolution. It ended open, in the middle of action, which I never appreciate. Also there was a tendency to express character through dialog and then repeat what was just expressed in the following paragraph with an inner monologue. It was maddening. I almost stopped reading multiple times.
I’m on a similar wavelength to this reviewer but I fully intended to give the book a very generous 3 stars the whole way through. But that ending did it for me, and one star had to come off.
Or this comment from someone who has obviously never read great writing:
Great story line, I am only giving this four stars because I would have loved to have had more back story and more detailed descriptions of the planets and the people, there we also some editing errors.
I find myself wondering how all the reviewers (28) would rate a truly great science fiction novel, one with a truly original plot, great characterisation, wonderful descriptions and no typos and errors. Unfortunately, or perhaps, fortunately, Amazon and Goodreads don’t allow scores of 10 out of 5 because that is what would have to happen if these reviewers actually attempted to read some of the classics.
Needless to say, I won’t be purchasing the next in this series.
Daniel M. Quilter’s style is upbeat with lots of witty dialogue to slow the story down. Did I just say slow the story down? The dialogue was a bit of a problem for me in that it dominated the book. In most novels, there is attention to such elements as plot, scene, characters, even how the characters feel about things. Not in this book, it is dialogue driven. Almost as if it was written as a script for a movie (god forbid). Oh, and the dialogue wasn’t that witty either, more of a high school banter that fails to work for the most part.
In reviewing this book, I think that it’s only fair that I review the reviews as well. After all, I purchased the book based on four and five-star reviews. I need to ask the question, are the reviewers in any way related, known to or affiliated with Daniel M Quilter? While I appreciate that everyone has an opinion I find some of the comments peculiar, prompting to ask, did they read the same book that I did? A few examples.
The characters' vibrant personalities add depth to this fast-paced science fiction adventure.
Characterisation was one dimensional, I think a comic book would have developed personalities far more completely. It certainly was fast paced. Too much so for any semblance of reality. Even given the existence of a ‘Tachyon drive’ which could shorten travel between planets to instantaneous transition I think it a bit farfetched that someone a couple of planets, or was it star systems away, talking on some super high tech telephone, could just say, “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”
I LOVED this great sci-fi fantasy story
Now, what is it? I’ve seen this trend evolving with authors who don’t know what to write. It needs to be either sci-fi or fantasy, not both, please. Yes, this author has started out with what appeared to be science fiction, as read in the Amazon preview chapters, then allowed the story to devolve into a free for all with the central characters possessing magical powers far in advance of technology. I know some will run out the old Arthur C. Clarke quote on technology and magic but at no point does the author attempt to rationalise the magic in any sort of logical science-based format.
Vhy' Rai is an extremely interesting magic system. It's three laws are complex and well thought out.
Perhaps the magic would have been interesting if the author had decided to explain it a bit more but like everything about this story it is just thrown in there as a series of discoveries used to solve a problem rather than adding to the overall enjoyment of the book. At this point, I realised that I'd been conned by a book that pretends to be a 4.5 star offering.
Some of the reviewers, to give them some credit, did offer criticisms. Unfortunately, they also gave the book 4 stars. This comment:
I'd give it a 3.5 star if allowed because there was no resolution. It ended open, in the middle of action, which I never appreciate. Also there was a tendency to express character through dialog and then repeat what was just expressed in the following paragraph with an inner monologue. It was maddening. I almost stopped reading multiple times.
I’m on a similar wavelength to this reviewer but I fully intended to give the book a very generous 3 stars the whole way through. But that ending did it for me, and one star had to come off.
Or this comment from someone who has obviously never read great writing:
Great story line, I am only giving this four stars because I would have loved to have had more back story and more detailed descriptions of the planets and the people, there we also some editing errors.
I find myself wondering how all the reviewers (28) would rate a truly great science fiction novel, one with a truly original plot, great characterisation, wonderful descriptions and no typos and errors. Unfortunately, or perhaps, fortunately, Amazon and Goodreads don’t allow scores of 10 out of 5 because that is what would have to happen if these reviewers actually attempted to read some of the classics.
Needless to say, I won’t be purchasing the next in this series.
March 22, 2016
I am going to start off by saying I absolutely loved this book, and for me that is not a phrase I utter lightly, in fact over the course of all my reviews I have maybe uttered this phrase two or three times.
The plot focuses mainly on the plights of Drake as he is drawn into a situation only he is capable of handling. Of course, it doesn’t help matters that Drake is on the opposing side of the war, the Mystics versus the Human Empire. But desperate times call for desperate measures, and in order to save his legacy the king of the Human Empire must recruit his aid. Fortunately for the King, Drake’s own brother serves within his ranks. As the war rages on, and truths hidden from even some of the royals are unveiled, the situation becomes more desperate, the stakes higher, as Drake tries to deliver his end of the deal.
The characters in this book are fantastic, my favourite being Drake with his quick tongue and witty retorts. The focus spans across several characters who each have their own very unique identity and back story. You’ll find no cookie cutter characters here, you will however find complex relationships, agendas, betrayal, and vices. Not to mention a hidden secret or two. You can't help but like the characters, and they honestly left me grinning.
The plot is an immersive one, and I was reluctant to put it down. In the interest of full disclosure I was initially sent a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review, however before I even got halfway through I had brought myself a copy. Such brilliant writing deserves no less.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of science fiction, fantasy, adventure, or anyone who simply enjoys a good plot with strong characters and an excellent narrative.
I am eagerly awaiting book two, how could I not with an ending like that?
The plot focuses mainly on the plights of Drake as he is drawn into a situation only he is capable of handling. Of course, it doesn’t help matters that Drake is on the opposing side of the war, the Mystics versus the Human Empire. But desperate times call for desperate measures, and in order to save his legacy the king of the Human Empire must recruit his aid. Fortunately for the King, Drake’s own brother serves within his ranks. As the war rages on, and truths hidden from even some of the royals are unveiled, the situation becomes more desperate, the stakes higher, as Drake tries to deliver his end of the deal.
The characters in this book are fantastic, my favourite being Drake with his quick tongue and witty retorts. The focus spans across several characters who each have their own very unique identity and back story. You’ll find no cookie cutter characters here, you will however find complex relationships, agendas, betrayal, and vices. Not to mention a hidden secret or two. You can't help but like the characters, and they honestly left me grinning.
The plot is an immersive one, and I was reluctant to put it down. In the interest of full disclosure I was initially sent a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a review, however before I even got halfway through I had brought myself a copy. Such brilliant writing deserves no less.
I highly recommend this book to lovers of science fiction, fantasy, adventure, or anyone who simply enjoys a good plot with strong characters and an excellent narrative.
I am eagerly awaiting book two, how could I not with an ending like that?
February 18, 2021
Imagine Captain Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean, put him in a sci-fi setting, and you have Drake, the main character from a Soul Divided. Hilariously snarky with a disdain for authority, he delivers some of the best lines I’ve ever read in speculative fiction, in a book full of witty banter among colorful characters with wonderful chemistry. I found myself laughing out loud at times as I followed Drake’s adventure to avoid his past and live in the moment.
If I judged a book solely on these factors, A Soul Divided would be an out of the park grand slam 5 stars. However, I found the world building interesting, but not mind-blowing. The underlying premise is an intergalactic war between future humans and a anthropomorphic race known as the Mystics. Drake belongs to a human-looking race who are exceptionally lucky, but were all but wiped out by the human empire’s secret weapon. That secret weapon has now turned on the humans, and it is up to Drake to defeat it.
Where A Soul Divided could use work is in the use of dialog tags and said-isms. I was mostly listening on audiobook, and the constant use of said-isms really slowed it down for me. Switching many of those said-isms to tags would have really made this fast-paced story shine.
If I judged a book solely on these factors, A Soul Divided would be an out of the park grand slam 5 stars. However, I found the world building interesting, but not mind-blowing. The underlying premise is an intergalactic war between future humans and a anthropomorphic race known as the Mystics. Drake belongs to a human-looking race who are exceptionally lucky, but were all but wiped out by the human empire’s secret weapon. That secret weapon has now turned on the humans, and it is up to Drake to defeat it.
Where A Soul Divided could use work is in the use of dialog tags and said-isms. I was mostly listening on audiobook, and the constant use of said-isms really slowed it down for me. Switching many of those said-isms to tags would have really made this fast-paced story shine.
October 5, 2025
This book had come at the perfect time after some super serious books. It feel like an old school space adventure. It such a fun read for the most part. Snappy dialogue. What didn't really expect from this based on the synopsis was emotional depth. The book is constantly moving forward with few moments of silence. There are characters that does show some growth. There are two characters that shouldn't be where they are at the end based on their beginning. I do like where are at, but it seems like it shouldn't be there until the next book. Timeline wise it did felt off. I had read this on my Kindle and I had listened to the audiobook. The audiobook was a great listen. I did love this book and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I do recommend this book.
March 15, 2026
First off, a big thank you to the author for sending me a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review. As always, these are my own unbiased thoughts and honest feedback.
To start, I honestly don’t even know how I let this sit unread for so long because this ended up being one of the most fun reads I’ve picked up in a while. It had everything that I could want from a book and more. If you’re someone who isn’t always sure about sci-fi, I actually think this is a great one to try because it has such a good blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements.
As mentioned, the author originally sent me the audiobook version, but I’ll be honest, I struggled a little with the narrator early on. Because I had heard so many great things about the story, I decided to grab the ebook as well and I’m really glad I did. Once I switched to tandem reading, I absolutely flew through the book. I ended up binge reading because I was so hooked and just needed to see what was going to happen next.
What really stood out to me was how naturally the story unfolds. The world, the different taboos, everything is introduced in a way that just feels really seamless. It was all set up so well, and the more the story progressed, the more everything just clicked into place. It made the world feel really immersive and thoughtfully built.
The characters were another huge highlight for me. Drake easily became my favorite. His sass, his personality, and the way his story unfolds, along with the reasons behind why he is the way he is, made it really easy to connect with him and made him such a fun character to follow. I also found myself really connecting with a lot of the characters throughout the story. There were even a few moments toward the end that caught me off guard emotionally which I wasn’t ready for. To make it even better, the dialogue between all the characters felt completely natural and was absolutely spot on, which for me can definitely make or break a story.
This book honestly deserves way more hype than I feel like it’s getting. I’m kind of blown away by how much I enjoyed it and I’m already anxiously waiting for book two because I need to see where the story goes next. If I could give this book more than five stars, I absolutely would.
To start, I honestly don’t even know how I let this sit unread for so long because this ended up being one of the most fun reads I’ve picked up in a while. It had everything that I could want from a book and more. If you’re someone who isn’t always sure about sci-fi, I actually think this is a great one to try because it has such a good blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements.
As mentioned, the author originally sent me the audiobook version, but I’ll be honest, I struggled a little with the narrator early on. Because I had heard so many great things about the story, I decided to grab the ebook as well and I’m really glad I did. Once I switched to tandem reading, I absolutely flew through the book. I ended up binge reading because I was so hooked and just needed to see what was going to happen next.
What really stood out to me was how naturally the story unfolds. The world, the different taboos, everything is introduced in a way that just feels really seamless. It was all set up so well, and the more the story progressed, the more everything just clicked into place. It made the world feel really immersive and thoughtfully built.
The characters were another huge highlight for me. Drake easily became my favorite. His sass, his personality, and the way his story unfolds, along with the reasons behind why he is the way he is, made it really easy to connect with him and made him such a fun character to follow. I also found myself really connecting with a lot of the characters throughout the story. There were even a few moments toward the end that caught me off guard emotionally which I wasn’t ready for. To make it even better, the dialogue between all the characters felt completely natural and was absolutely spot on, which for me can definitely make or break a story.
This book honestly deserves way more hype than I feel like it’s getting. I’m kind of blown away by how much I enjoyed it and I’m already anxiously waiting for book two because I need to see where the story goes next. If I could give this book more than five stars, I absolutely would.
September 12, 2025
8/10
I was honestly surprised at how well-written this book is, and the audiobook narrator is fantastic! There were some really cool and epic scenes, like the escape from 169's ship (my personal favorite scene), the defense against the Hostile on New Earth, and the "negotiation" between Drake and 169. There were also good running themes like "You can't hate someone once you understand them" that made this a more meaningful story, and the characters were well-written and multi-dimensional (for the most part). The reason I'm not rating this higher than an 8/10 is due to a couple minor annoyances and one major pet peeve.
Annoyance 1: There are some cheesy moments that make it feel like the author is trying to teach pre-teens how to talk about their feelings, but then there are plenty of mature scenes (mostly language and gore, but also one closed-door sex scene) that definitely aren't meant for that same age range. This made it feel like the author wasn't sure who his audience was.
Annoyance 2: The big reveals were predictable. The book is called A Soul Divided, we learn about the third taboo of dividing a soul, and we know that Drake turns into a monster when he doesn't have his soul anchor, yet it's treated as a big reveal that Drake committed the third taboo later on. It's also treated as a big reveal that Drake can kill the nightmares, even though we already learned that the nightmares were created with the third taboo and we also know that taboo-committers can be killed by others who have committed the same taboo.
And finally, my major pet peeve: the author committed the fourth taboo of allowing literally billions of people to die in this book while all of the important characters make it out alive... again, and again, and again. The plot armor was already getting to me by the time I got 60% through the book, but Vahn's miraculous survival after Rabbit's Foot reeeally irked me (to the point that I would have given this book a 9/10 otherwise). The death of an important character gives a story more impact and can be a great tool to further the other characters' development. It would have been such an impactful moment if Drake's nightmare form had actually killed the brother with whom he had just reconciled after years of feeling betrayed. Unfortunately, we'll miss out on knowing what Vahn's death could have done to Drake.
Overall a good read. I'll definitely be reading future titles in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2026
Audiobook Review
I'm not really a audiobook person, love the idea of it. But for me I can't really find so many with a narrator I want to listen to. Zach Dyer who narrates A Soul Divided is the best one I listen to since Steven Pacey in the First Law universe. The way he captures the emotions, feelings and the different voices to our 4 povs/ side characters is incredible. And I had such a fun time along the ride!
For the story itself, it's amazing. It's fast paced, the banter is fantastic, the characters are all intriguing and fun to read about. My favorite (I bet everyone's favorite) is Drake, such a great character. Even with a fast paced story, that doesn't stop Daniel from pouring all the characters feelings and emotions on the table. And I think that is one of the best things here, because he for sure know what he's doing in A Soul Divided.
The world itself is very fun in itself, with mystics, humans and something else. A dash horror, enemies to lovers, and so many enemies that you will start to wonder who is really the main bad guy in this show. So much action to die for, with boss fights and danger in literally every corner.
If you haven't read this sci-fi fantasy yet. You have to, it's incredible! Super excited for book 2 to come.
I'm not really a audiobook person, love the idea of it. But for me I can't really find so many with a narrator I want to listen to. Zach Dyer who narrates A Soul Divided is the best one I listen to since Steven Pacey in the First Law universe. The way he captures the emotions, feelings and the different voices to our 4 povs/ side characters is incredible. And I had such a fun time along the ride!
For the story itself, it's amazing. It's fast paced, the banter is fantastic, the characters are all intriguing and fun to read about. My favorite (I bet everyone's favorite) is Drake, such a great character. Even with a fast paced story, that doesn't stop Daniel from pouring all the characters feelings and emotions on the table. And I think that is one of the best things here, because he for sure know what he's doing in A Soul Divided.
The world itself is very fun in itself, with mystics, humans and something else. A dash horror, enemies to lovers, and so many enemies that you will start to wonder who is really the main bad guy in this show. So much action to die for, with boss fights and danger in literally every corner.
If you haven't read this sci-fi fantasy yet. You have to, it's incredible! Super excited for book 2 to come.
Read
December 4, 2025Gifted ALC from the author
Since this genre is completely new to me, I chose not to give a rating — I don’t feel it would be fair to the author or the book. But stepping into unfamiliar territory ended up being a surprisingly engaging experience.
What stood out most to me was the core concept of Vhy’Rai and the spiritual weight behind its taboos. It adds a fascinating moral layer to the story, making the stakes feel larger than just a political war. The tension between religion and technology is woven naturally into the worldbuilding, creating a universe that feels both imaginative and purposeful.
Drake Ashbell’s personal arc was another highlight. His struggle with grief, identity, and responsibility adds an emotional grounding that helped pull me into the story even as someone new to the genre. I enjoyed how his journey intersects with the bigger conflict, allowing the book to balance action with introspection.
Overall, A Soul Divided is a thoughtful and ambitious sci-fi story that blends cosmic scale with personal stakes in a way that fans of the genre will likely appreciate.
Since this genre is completely new to me, I chose not to give a rating — I don’t feel it would be fair to the author or the book. But stepping into unfamiliar territory ended up being a surprisingly engaging experience.
What stood out most to me was the core concept of Vhy’Rai and the spiritual weight behind its taboos. It adds a fascinating moral layer to the story, making the stakes feel larger than just a political war. The tension between religion and technology is woven naturally into the worldbuilding, creating a universe that feels both imaginative and purposeful.
Drake Ashbell’s personal arc was another highlight. His struggle with grief, identity, and responsibility adds an emotional grounding that helped pull me into the story even as someone new to the genre. I enjoyed how his journey intersects with the bigger conflict, allowing the book to balance action with introspection.
Overall, A Soul Divided is a thoughtful and ambitious sci-fi story that blends cosmic scale with personal stakes in a way that fans of the genre will likely appreciate.
October 5, 2025
I absolutely devoured the audiobook for A Soul Divided and can confidently say it's a hit. This is a non-stop thrill ride that's fast-paced, wickedly clever, and packed with action.
The story’s greatest strength for me is its cast, starting with the main character, Drake. He was an immediate favorite of mine. His character is built on quick wit and a sarcastic, no BS attitude that provides fantastic levity in the face of constant danger. The supporting cast is just as strong and developed. Olivia and Angela aren't just side characters though. They are integrated into the story and their personalities complement and challenge Drake, making for some engaging interactions. Even the primary antagonist, 169, is a powerful and believable adversary, raising the stakes in every encounter.
Daniel has created a fun and interesting power system here. Combine that with high-stakes battles that span across different reaches of space, and you have a story that is highly imaginative and addictive!
Overall, A Soul Divided was a truly enjoyable listen that delivers on every front: action, humor, and exceptional character depth. I'm already looking forward to continuing this series!
The story’s greatest strength for me is its cast, starting with the main character, Drake. He was an immediate favorite of mine. His character is built on quick wit and a sarcastic, no BS attitude that provides fantastic levity in the face of constant danger. The supporting cast is just as strong and developed. Olivia and Angela aren't just side characters though. They are integrated into the story and their personalities complement and challenge Drake, making for some engaging interactions. Even the primary antagonist, 169, is a powerful and believable adversary, raising the stakes in every encounter.
Daniel has created a fun and interesting power system here. Combine that with high-stakes battles that span across different reaches of space, and you have a story that is highly imaginative and addictive!
Overall, A Soul Divided was a truly enjoyable listen that delivers on every front: action, humor, and exceptional character depth. I'm already looking forward to continuing this series!
April 26, 2026
4.75⭐️ I loved the characters in this book. Good mix of sci-fi fantasy
April 30, 2026
Highly recommend! It was action-packed, fast-paced. I enjoyed the multi POV. The humor reminded me of a Marvel movie. It has such a unique mix of tech and magic system. I’m desperate for book 2.
December 13, 2016
So many writers struggle (and fail) to bring true humor to their characters. It’s a struggle Mr. Quilter has overcome in his character, Drake. His interactions with Angela and Princess Olivia are realistic and interesting, set across the space operatic background of this world. The story itself is original, well-constructed, and worthy of some time to experience it. I like flawed heroes – they are much more believable than the Dudley Dooright sort. And snark and smart-a$$ery rules any day!
The paragraph formatting (no indentations) sometimes made it difficult for me to read, but that was a very minor point. There was a lot more conversation than exposition, which is a good thing. It exposes the characters without dumping a lot of external evaluations from the author.
The paragraph formatting (no indentations) sometimes made it difficult for me to read, but that was a very minor point. There was a lot more conversation than exposition, which is a good thing. It exposes the characters without dumping a lot of external evaluations from the author.
October 20, 2015
I read it on my Kindle app on my phone, and really enjoyed it a great deal! I definitely want to read the rest of the series as they come out (if they aren't available yet.), and if they are written by my good friend's son, as the name makes it appear, I'd even consider going against my stance against paying for anything on Kindle, just to support the good work!
December 18, 2015
A battle between the Mystics and the Human Empire sees Drake fight for his life and deal with some terrible events from the past. An epic sci-fi yarn, with a great storyline. The characters were well developed and I could picture the places quite clearly. I would recommend this book to sci-fi fans. Really enjoyed it.
January 8, 2016
If you are a Sci-fi junkie, you should check this book out. I love the world the author created and the characters seemed to jump off the pages. I think this is a good book. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
September 4, 2018
One of the best science fiction books I have read! The action scenes are well written, bringing the readers along as they watch the charming characters trash talk each other in a highly humorous way.
January 16, 2026
This is one of those books that genuinely earns the phrase “thrown into the deep end.” The opening chapter is a full-scale battle, and within pages I was already questioning everything. It’s an immediate, visceral start that tells you exactly what kind of ride you’re in for.
One of the most interesting aspects of this world is the magic system. Vhy Rai isn’t a weapon in the traditional sense. The limitations make it feel grounded and purposeful rather than overpowered, especially that some people are considered “unworthy” to wield it without assistance adds another compelling layer. This, together with the Taboo’s, created an interesting mechanic that make this entire system so unique to read.
And then there’s Drake. Just when you think you understand him, the rug is pulled out from under you. Learning that he is not only capable of extreme violence, but actively enjoys it at times, was genuinely shocking. The mystery surrounding the source of this ability, and what exactly his revolver allows him to do, kept me completely hooked. His history with Vahn, and the slow reveal of their shared past, is one of the strongest threads in the book.
Daniel Quilter’s writing style is a big part of why this book works so well. The prose is snappy and dialogue-driven without feeling shallow. There’s a sense of ease to the reading experience; witty exchanges land, chaos unfolds…chaotically.. humor slips in at exactly the right moments. Scenes like Drake’s first interaction with 169 balance comedy and unease very well (hello Sixty Niner). There is also a level of brutality in the battle scenes that I honestly didn’t expect to experience, but it works so well.
That said, not everything landed equally for me. Some emotional confrontations, especially later in the book, felt rushed and overly explicit, with feelings stated outright rather than allowed to breathe. I also wasn’t fully convinced by the Drake/Angela romance; it wasn’t badly written, but it felt less essential than the sibling dynamic between Drake and Vahn, which carried far more weight. I enjoyed Drake and Vahn much more as character POVs than Angela and Olivia. I found them to be stronger and more sturdy in their construction, but together they did complete the puzzle.
Still, the strengths of this book outweigh its missteps. The dialogue is consistently sharp, the battles are chaotic and immersive, and the moral grayness of its characters makes the story feel unpredictable and real. The final act, especially seeing Drake’s transformation from multiple perspectives, was something I’d been waiting for all along…and the ending left me stunned, confused, and desperate for answers.
This is a story that trusts its readers to follow breadcrumbs, sit with discomfort, and question its characters rather than neatly categorizing them. It follows themes of self acceptance/loathing, responsibility to family and expectations, and forgiveness. It’s ambitious, fast-paced, and rooted in chaos and overwhelm…and I’m more than ready to see where it goes next.
Favourite quote: “Do you think we hate ourselves because we don’t understand ourselves?”
One of the most interesting aspects of this world is the magic system. Vhy Rai isn’t a weapon in the traditional sense. The limitations make it feel grounded and purposeful rather than overpowered, especially that some people are considered “unworthy” to wield it without assistance adds another compelling layer. This, together with the Taboo’s, created an interesting mechanic that make this entire system so unique to read.
And then there’s Drake. Just when you think you understand him, the rug is pulled out from under you. Learning that he is not only capable of extreme violence, but actively enjoys it at times, was genuinely shocking. The mystery surrounding the source of this ability, and what exactly his revolver allows him to do, kept me completely hooked. His history with Vahn, and the slow reveal of their shared past, is one of the strongest threads in the book.
Daniel Quilter’s writing style is a big part of why this book works so well. The prose is snappy and dialogue-driven without feeling shallow. There’s a sense of ease to the reading experience; witty exchanges land, chaos unfolds…chaotically.. humor slips in at exactly the right moments. Scenes like Drake’s first interaction with 169 balance comedy and unease very well (hello Sixty Niner). There is also a level of brutality in the battle scenes that I honestly didn’t expect to experience, but it works so well.
That said, not everything landed equally for me. Some emotional confrontations, especially later in the book, felt rushed and overly explicit, with feelings stated outright rather than allowed to breathe. I also wasn’t fully convinced by the Drake/Angela romance; it wasn’t badly written, but it felt less essential than the sibling dynamic between Drake and Vahn, which carried far more weight. I enjoyed Drake and Vahn much more as character POVs than Angela and Olivia. I found them to be stronger and more sturdy in their construction, but together they did complete the puzzle.
Still, the strengths of this book outweigh its missteps. The dialogue is consistently sharp, the battles are chaotic and immersive, and the moral grayness of its characters makes the story feel unpredictable and real. The final act, especially seeing Drake’s transformation from multiple perspectives, was something I’d been waiting for all along…and the ending left me stunned, confused, and desperate for answers.
This is a story that trusts its readers to follow breadcrumbs, sit with discomfort, and question its characters rather than neatly categorizing them. It follows themes of self acceptance/loathing, responsibility to family and expectations, and forgiveness. It’s ambitious, fast-paced, and rooted in chaos and overwhelm…and I’m more than ready to see where it goes next.
Favourite quote: “Do you think we hate ourselves because we don’t understand ourselves?”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2018
Sci-fantasy. That's what we've got here. I'm far from the biggest sci-fi fan, (I enjoy it on the screen but don't follow much of what goes on in books) but I do think that magic in space is a pretty novel idea, and can't imagine that there's been too many variations on this idea. Immediately, then, there's a freshness to the work, difficult to achieve in any flooded field.
Things get off to a pretty quick start. Olivia, Princess of the Human Empire, looking forward to an evening of staring the stars, finds herself watching as five soldiers are taken down by a single man, and we're only a couple of pages in. The action is taut and tightly written throughout the book, and it's the speed of events that really helps the book. The ideas are a tad cliche, but when done with gusto the whole story makes for a rollicking adventure that will keep those pages turning.
The characters aren't the usual cardboard cut-outs either. Olivia in the above scene finds the confrontation an 'interesting' diversion from the norm. The brothers Vahn and Drake offer up interesting contrasts. Vahn, sent on a quest to find his criminal half-sibling, is diligent, Drake is a Han Solo-esque rogue with a knack for a snappy line (he's the kind of guy who'll jump through a window if you don't let him use the door). Not long after we meet Drake we're into a chase scene. In fact, it's to the book's credit that we never sit still for long periods of exposition. In that sense, A Soul Divided is very reminiscent of original trilogy Star Wars or Indiana Jones.
My only niggle is that the cover doesn't do a particularly good job of representing the story, so I recommend any prospective readers look past it (and we all know the proverb about judging and book covers...). There's a review I've seen that complains about the paragraphing, but that's not a problem I had, unless it applies to the print version? Anyway, kindle edition is laid out correctly and easy to read. A couple of editing issues here and there, nothing overly bothersome though.
A Soul Divided, then is recommended if you're after a real blast of adventure set around a solid magic system that sticks to its rules.
Things get off to a pretty quick start. Olivia, Princess of the Human Empire, looking forward to an evening of staring the stars, finds herself watching as five soldiers are taken down by a single man, and we're only a couple of pages in. The action is taut and tightly written throughout the book, and it's the speed of events that really helps the book. The ideas are a tad cliche, but when done with gusto the whole story makes for a rollicking adventure that will keep those pages turning.
The characters aren't the usual cardboard cut-outs either. Olivia in the above scene finds the confrontation an 'interesting' diversion from the norm. The brothers Vahn and Drake offer up interesting contrasts. Vahn, sent on a quest to find his criminal half-sibling, is diligent, Drake is a Han Solo-esque rogue with a knack for a snappy line (he's the kind of guy who'll jump through a window if you don't let him use the door). Not long after we meet Drake we're into a chase scene. In fact, it's to the book's credit that we never sit still for long periods of exposition. In that sense, A Soul Divided is very reminiscent of original trilogy Star Wars or Indiana Jones.
My only niggle is that the cover doesn't do a particularly good job of representing the story, so I recommend any prospective readers look past it (and we all know the proverb about judging and book covers...). There's a review I've seen that complains about the paragraphing, but that's not a problem I had, unless it applies to the print version? Anyway, kindle edition is laid out correctly and easy to read. A couple of editing issues here and there, nothing overly bothersome though.
A Soul Divided, then is recommended if you're after a real blast of adventure set around a solid magic system that sticks to its rules.
September 23, 2025
If you’re looking for a space drama with a main character who reminds you of Flynn Rider but with more trauma, worlds at war with each other, and governments ruled by corrupt individuals only wanting power, look no further than A Soul Divided By Daniel M Quilter.
Let me start with the thing that has stuck with me so much: the magic. The magic system Daniel created for this book is so very fun and I kept wanting to learn more and more. The magic is wrapped into a specific religion, but we don’t learn the ins and outs of any specifics until much later, and even then, it left me wanting to know more! How do the runes work? What are other uses for hemoignisium? What other types of Mystic are out there?
I loved the setting of space with multiple worlds and a human empire under the rule of one person. Sci-fi gives way to so much creativity, and Daniel really ran wild with the different types of species, worlds, and cultures we experienced. My absolute favorite to come of this would hands down be the species that has to kill their fathers to gain their own name. I loved seeing little moments like that to make this vast universe feel more real.
The one downside, however, is that I felt like a lot of the character arcs played second fiddle to that of Drake Ashbell. He’s a very fun and compelling character, don’t get me wrong, but I really wanted to know more about Princess Olivia or Angela or even the king himself. Every character Daniel introduced me to, I got so excited because of how interesting they were, but was a little let down because it felt like their arcs were secondary to Drake’s story. Granted, this is the first book in what seems to be a series, so I do have high hopes for future installments especially because I’m already very invested in these characters.
That being said, I truly loved the villain. He was sinister and creepy, and I loved how we as an audience were able to figure out if he was around or not through the way his powers affected others. This guy deserves an A+ in villainry!
Overall, this isn’t a book I’d pass by!! I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
Let me start with the thing that has stuck with me so much: the magic. The magic system Daniel created for this book is so very fun and I kept wanting to learn more and more. The magic is wrapped into a specific religion, but we don’t learn the ins and outs of any specifics until much later, and even then, it left me wanting to know more! How do the runes work? What are other uses for hemoignisium? What other types of Mystic are out there?
I loved the setting of space with multiple worlds and a human empire under the rule of one person. Sci-fi gives way to so much creativity, and Daniel really ran wild with the different types of species, worlds, and cultures we experienced. My absolute favorite to come of this would hands down be the species that has to kill their fathers to gain their own name. I loved seeing little moments like that to make this vast universe feel more real.
The one downside, however, is that I felt like a lot of the character arcs played second fiddle to that of Drake Ashbell. He’s a very fun and compelling character, don’t get me wrong, but I really wanted to know more about Princess Olivia or Angela or even the king himself. Every character Daniel introduced me to, I got so excited because of how interesting they were, but was a little let down because it felt like their arcs were secondary to Drake’s story. Granted, this is the first book in what seems to be a series, so I do have high hopes for future installments especially because I’m already very invested in these characters.
That being said, I truly loved the villain. He was sinister and creepy, and I loved how we as an audience were able to figure out if he was around or not through the way his powers affected others. This guy deserves an A+ in villainry!
Overall, this isn’t a book I’d pass by!! I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
March 29, 2026
A Soul Divided, Book One of the Blood-Fire Trilogy, is a non-stop thrill ride from page 1. Set in a future where the Human Empire is at war with the Mystics, this Sci-Fantasy galaxy hopper pulls you in from the very beginning and never lets go. Told from 4 POVs, this is a tapestry of action, suspense, trauma, and lore. This book beautifully blends technology with sorcery in really clever and unique ways, leading to some truly vivid scenes. The author really does an excellent job of not only utilizing the past scars of our main characters to shape their decision-making but also uses those scars to continually inform and update their character development after they go through the many trials and tribulations of this book.
Written with modern prose, this book is an odyssey and a half, taking our characters to half a dozen worlds and back. The author is not afraid to put real costs on the decisions of the main characters and their ancillaries, leading to an emotionally gripping Act 3. I can sense the author has been influenced by anime in the way he constructs the world, the characters, the action, and the emotions. If you are a fan of Outlaw Star, Cowboy Bebop, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Full Metal Alchemist, this book will feel right at home. As a big fan of space operas, I would also add that fans of Farscape and Babylon 5 will sink their teeth into the galactic politics, alien cultures, and the shadowy powers all at play in this book. And of course, any fans of the Sun Eater Series must read this book!
If you are looking for something that is not strictly sci-fi or strictly fantasy, you should pick this up immediately! The dialog is snappy, the stakes are real, and there is the right amount of heart and action. From heists to horror to heroics, this book has it all. I also appreciated the author adding some philosophical undertones to the mythology and magic of the Mystics. It is not as simple as just being born gifted with power; you have to be worthy of it or else commit unforgivable acts to achieve your goals. This book is definitely in my top reads of the year and continues to show why we all need to read more Indie Authors! I personally cannot wait for book 2 to come out!
Written with modern prose, this book is an odyssey and a half, taking our characters to half a dozen worlds and back. The author is not afraid to put real costs on the decisions of the main characters and their ancillaries, leading to an emotionally gripping Act 3. I can sense the author has been influenced by anime in the way he constructs the world, the characters, the action, and the emotions. If you are a fan of Outlaw Star, Cowboy Bebop, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Full Metal Alchemist, this book will feel right at home. As a big fan of space operas, I would also add that fans of Farscape and Babylon 5 will sink their teeth into the galactic politics, alien cultures, and the shadowy powers all at play in this book. And of course, any fans of the Sun Eater Series must read this book!
If you are looking for something that is not strictly sci-fi or strictly fantasy, you should pick this up immediately! The dialog is snappy, the stakes are real, and there is the right amount of heart and action. From heists to horror to heroics, this book has it all. I also appreciated the author adding some philosophical undertones to the mythology and magic of the Mystics. It is not as simple as just being born gifted with power; you have to be worthy of it or else commit unforgivable acts to achieve your goals. This book is definitely in my top reads of the year and continues to show why we all need to read more Indie Authors! I personally cannot wait for book 2 to come out!
December 30, 2025
Overall: 3.5/5
Spice: 0/5
Tropes/themes: ~ Reluctant hero ~ Space pirates & rescue mission ~ Multiple POVs and plot lines ~ Unique magic & monsters ~ Mix of sci-fi & fantasy
“Not all truth lives in the light."
I was lucky enough that the author gave me a copy of his audiobook, so naturally I listened along while reading on my Kindle, since it’s available on Kindle Unlimited. This was a fun read. The narrator did a fantastic job capturing all the different POVs and voices. It was genuinely entertaining to listen to.
You have the Mystics and the Human Empire, who aren’t on the best of terms because of their shared history. When the Princess of the Human Empire is captured, they seek out a disgraced prince of the Mystics for help.
I always enjoy when an author creates their own swear words based on the characters’ beliefs. “Knunes fire” was a good one! I’m curious to learn more about the magic system and how it operates as the series develops. This story was fast-paced and packed with action.
Drake really stood out among the characters. His sarcasm and humor made him especially engaging, and the banter between all the characters was great.
My biggest critique would be some of the dialogue. A character might express an inner monologue, and then another character would repeat the same sentiment. This happened fairly often; otherwise, I would’ve given it four stars.
I’m definitely interested in continuing the series because the plot was well developed and kept me engaged the whole time.
Go ahead and check this out if you like space pirates, rescue missions, magic battles, and lots of action!
Spice: 0/5
Tropes/themes: ~ Reluctant hero ~ Space pirates & rescue mission ~ Multiple POVs and plot lines ~ Unique magic & monsters ~ Mix of sci-fi & fantasy
“Not all truth lives in the light."
I was lucky enough that the author gave me a copy of his audiobook, so naturally I listened along while reading on my Kindle, since it’s available on Kindle Unlimited. This was a fun read. The narrator did a fantastic job capturing all the different POVs and voices. It was genuinely entertaining to listen to.
You have the Mystics and the Human Empire, who aren’t on the best of terms because of their shared history. When the Princess of the Human Empire is captured, they seek out a disgraced prince of the Mystics for help.
I always enjoy when an author creates their own swear words based on the characters’ beliefs. “Knunes fire” was a good one! I’m curious to learn more about the magic system and how it operates as the series develops. This story was fast-paced and packed with action.
Drake really stood out among the characters. His sarcasm and humor made him especially engaging, and the banter between all the characters was great.
My biggest critique would be some of the dialogue. A character might express an inner monologue, and then another character would repeat the same sentiment. This happened fairly often; otherwise, I would’ve given it four stars.
I’m definitely interested in continuing the series because the plot was well developed and kept me engaged the whole time.
Go ahead and check this out if you like space pirates, rescue missions, magic battles, and lots of action!
November 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It’s such a cool blend of sci-fi and fantasy, and the mix works so well. The magic system was super unique and one of my favorite parts—it felt really fresh and different from a lot of other books in the genre. I also loved the conflict between the two races and how they’re forced to work together despite all the tension and history between them. It made for some great story moments and character growth.
Angela’s arc was done so well too. I appreciated how she actually gets called out on her racism and has to face the way she sees mystics. Watching her come to realize that not all mystics are bad felt really genuine and gave her character some great depth.
And Drake—honestly, his growth throughout the story was a lot of fun to read. His banter with everyone made me laugh, but when he gets serious, it really hits hard because you’ve seen that playful side of him. It makes him feel like such a real, well-rounded character.
Overall, A Soul Divided is an awesome mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and character-driven storytelling. If you like unique worlds, fun character dynamics, and stories that explore prejudice and teamwork, I definitely recommend checking it out!
Angela’s arc was done so well too. I appreciated how she actually gets called out on her racism and has to face the way she sees mystics. Watching her come to realize that not all mystics are bad felt really genuine and gave her character some great depth.
And Drake—honestly, his growth throughout the story was a lot of fun to read. His banter with everyone made me laugh, but when he gets serious, it really hits hard because you’ve seen that playful side of him. It makes him feel like such a real, well-rounded character.
Overall, A Soul Divided is an awesome mix of sci-fi, fantasy, and character-driven storytelling. If you like unique worlds, fun character dynamics, and stories that explore prejudice and teamwork, I definitely recommend checking it out!
December 31, 2025
As you may know, I’ve been dabbling in audiobooks this year so when @danielmquilter offered an audiobook copy I said yes! And I’m so glad I did. Not only was the story great and the characters compelling, but the narrator also did a phenomenal job.
Speaking of characters, I absolutely loved the friendship that blossomed between… well… maybe that would be telling. I JUST LOVE FRIENDSHIP OK. Ahem.
The worldbuilding felt really unique and so interesting. All the engagement rules for combat and how the magic system and magical races works. Very cool.
Drake is probably my favorite character but they all really have their moments to shine. They also all felt unique and had a depth to them. Even when they want you to think they’re shallow.
And it was fun. So many hijinks and witty banter.
I’m hoping to make it through one more book before the end of the year, but if I don’t then I ended on a high note!
Thanks to the author for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Speaking of characters, I absolutely loved the friendship that blossomed between… well… maybe that would be telling. I JUST LOVE FRIENDSHIP OK. Ahem.
The worldbuilding felt really unique and so interesting. All the engagement rules for combat and how the magic system and magical races works. Very cool.
Drake is probably my favorite character but they all really have their moments to shine. They also all felt unique and had a depth to them. Even when they want you to think they’re shallow.
And it was fun. So many hijinks and witty banter.
I’m hoping to make it through one more book before the end of the year, but if I don’t then I ended on a high note!
Thanks to the author for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2017
Drake Ashbell is a swashbuckling space-pirate and the only person who can rescue the Human Empire's princess and stop the one responsible for kidnapping her! The author does a fantastic job of making Drake cunning and ruthless yet still honorable and likable. In general, the story's characters were one of its strongest points. From Drake's half-brother, Vahn, to Angela, the rescued slave, each character has a distinct voice and personality that really shows through in the writing. I found myself caring deeply for the characters, and I loved reading their interactions with one another. The Vhy'Rai is a very interesting magic system that integrated well with the story's tech.
There are some minor editing issues, but they're not so glaring or frequent that they take you out of the story. If you like science fantasy, action, and stories rife with danger and daring-do, then I recommend giving A Soul Divided a read! It's quite enjoyable!
There are some minor editing issues, but they're not so glaring or frequent that they take you out of the story. If you like science fantasy, action, and stories rife with danger and daring-do, then I recommend giving A Soul Divided a read! It's quite enjoyable!
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