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Twisted Souls
"You're going to be the ruin of me..."
When Zara mysteriously gains new abilities that land her in the arms of Xavier, the dark and brooding Fae King of Nexia, she uncovers secrets that could shatter both worlds. With his magic stolen and his soul fractured, Xavier must find a way to restore his power before his kingdom falls to ruin.
As bloodthirsty witches mounted on their monstrous Daka destroy villages in Nexia, rumors spread of their long-lost queen’s return.
Torn between Xavier's seductive allure and his brother Jaxon's deceptive charm, Zara is caught in a dangerous game of lust and loyalty. Both men harbor dark secrets, and as the boundaries between love and betrayal blur, Zara finds herself at the center of a war—where nothing is as it seems.
As time runs out, Zara must work with Xavier and Jaxon to repair their fractured magic and stop the witches before they destroy both realms. But Zara carries a secret of her own—one that could change everything.
Even the fates are watching.
Twisted Souls is a romantasy perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and From Blood and Ash, blending romance, magic, and high-stakes tension in a dual POV tale.
When Zara mysteriously gains new abilities that land her in the arms of Xavier, the dark and brooding Fae King of Nexia, she uncovers secrets that could shatter both worlds. With his magic stolen and his soul fractured, Xavier must find a way to restore his power before his kingdom falls to ruin.
As bloodthirsty witches mounted on their monstrous Daka destroy villages in Nexia, rumors spread of their long-lost queen’s return.
Torn between Xavier's seductive allure and his brother Jaxon's deceptive charm, Zara is caught in a dangerous game of lust and loyalty. Both men harbor dark secrets, and as the boundaries between love and betrayal blur, Zara finds herself at the center of a war—where nothing is as it seems.
As time runs out, Zara must work with Xavier and Jaxon to repair their fractured magic and stop the witches before they destroy both realms. But Zara carries a secret of her own—one that could change everything.
Even the fates are watching.
Twisted Souls is a romantasy perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and From Blood and Ash, blending romance, magic, and high-stakes tension in a dual POV tale.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2025
48 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Shannon McLellan
1 book35 followersShannon McLellan has always been an avid reader of “far-off places, daring sword fights, magic spells, a prince in disguise…”—okay, that might be Beauty and the Beast, but it still applies. She has a lifelong love for fantasy and has been creating stories since she was little.
Shannon lives in North Carolina with her husband and two cats, spending her days writing and savoring life’s simple moments. With a background in art history, she blends creativity with rich detail and imagination in her writing. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her painting, planning her next adventure, or laughing with family and friends.
Twisted Souls is Shannon’s debut novel—a story she’s poured her heart into and hopes will whisk readers away on an unforgettable journey.
Follow Shannon’s adventures, both real and imaginary, on social media: @shannonmclellan.author
Shannon lives in North Carolina with her husband and two cats, spending her days writing and savoring life’s simple moments. With a background in art history, she blends creativity with rich detail and imagination in her writing. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her painting, planning her next adventure, or laughing with family and friends.
Twisted Souls is Shannon’s debut novel—a story she’s poured her heart into and hopes will whisk readers away on an unforgettable journey.
Follow Shannon’s adventures, both real and imaginary, on social media: @shannonmclellan.author
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 23, 2025
Mark my words, this book deserves the hype of Fourth Wing and then some. When (not if, because I know it’s gonna happen) this book goes viral, know I recommended this and tried to get you in this author’s corner before her fame.
The author crafts a world of elements much loved by the book-ish community, while still bringing something new and innovative to the table. In sum, TWISTED SOULS is a culmination of romance, fantasy, and a beautifully intricate magic system that is complex yet simple to understand.
Readers will join Zara as she is consumed by a magic she doesn’t understand that brings her into the world of a mysterious Fae King named Xavier. There’s something linking their two worlds that goes beyond their inexplicable bond, and the two must figure out what is driving them together—as well as what is behind Zara’s magic—or else their two realms remain in a perilous state.
I don’t want to say anything more because I’m scared I’ll spoil it. But read this if you like/want:
⋆｡°✩ a brother dynamic like Stefan & Damon from The Vampire Diaries
⋆｡°✩ a scene similar to the one in twilight where Edward makes his first public appearance with Bella and says “since I’m going to hell”
⋆｡°✩ a fast-paced, all-consuming plot like with Fourth Wing (clear your schedule, because you will not want to put it down)
⋆｡°✩ a plot twist that exceeds the ending in Red Queen
Because the characters, the plot, the exceptional world-building— a masterpiece. Followed by THAT ENDING?!? Shannon McLellann, respectfully WHAT THE FUCK?!
I genuinely can’t recommend this book enough. This might already be my book of the year. To the author—thank you for reminding me why I love reading.
The author crafts a world of elements much loved by the book-ish community, while still bringing something new and innovative to the table. In sum, TWISTED SOULS is a culmination of romance, fantasy, and a beautifully intricate magic system that is complex yet simple to understand.
Readers will join Zara as she is consumed by a magic she doesn’t understand that brings her into the world of a mysterious Fae King named Xavier. There’s something linking their two worlds that goes beyond their inexplicable bond, and the two must figure out what is driving them together—as well as what is behind Zara’s magic—or else their two realms remain in a perilous state.
I don’t want to say anything more because I’m scared I’ll spoil it. But read this if you like/want:
⋆｡°✩ a brother dynamic like Stefan & Damon from The Vampire Diaries
⋆｡°✩ a scene similar to the one in twilight where Edward makes his first public appearance with Bella and says “since I’m going to hell”
⋆｡°✩ a fast-paced, all-consuming plot like with Fourth Wing (clear your schedule, because you will not want to put it down)
⋆｡°✩ a plot twist that exceeds the ending in Red Queen
Because the characters, the plot, the exceptional world-building— a masterpiece. Followed by THAT ENDING?!? Shannon McLellann, respectfully WHAT THE FUCK?!
I genuinely can’t recommend this book enough. This might already be my book of the year. To the author—thank you for reminding me why I love reading.
December 21, 2025
✦⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆✦
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND SHANNON MCLELLAN!
👑🏰🗡️🌸🪄
4.75 stars!!
The prologue had me completely hooked. I put this book on the back burner for a while, and honestly, I don’t know why. I wish I hadn’t waited so long, because once I finally picked it up, I thought it was great. While it does fall into the familiar fae romantasy category, it never felt overdone or unoriginal. The story was engaging, the world was easy to sink into, and it managed to feel fresh without straying too far from what makes the genre so enjoyable. What was that ending…
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND SHANNON MCLELLAN!
👑🏰🗡️🌸🪄
4.75 stars!!
The prologue had me completely hooked. I put this book on the back burner for a while, and honestly, I don’t know why. I wish I hadn’t waited so long, because once I finally picked it up, I thought it was great. While it does fall into the familiar fae romantasy category, it never felt overdone or unoriginal. The story was engaging, the world was easy to sink into, and it managed to feel fresh without straying too far from what makes the genre so enjoyable. What was that ending…
September 19, 2025
Dare I say this is one of my favorite books of 2025? Um yes. This was an action packed adventure. The magic system is unique, yet easy to follow and the world building is immersive. The characters are well developed and the romance didn’t smother the plot. The banter between Zara and Xavier was chef’s kiss. I love my men dark and broody.
The ending? Respectfully wtf. I’m going to think about this for the next few days. Between Twisted Souls and Metal Slinger, unexpected plot twists and cliffhangers will be my end. I won’t be surprised if this book goes viral, I hope it does. This book deserves all the hype, especially being that this is a debut novel. Twisted Souls is a great addition to the romantasy genre. Thank you to the author and TwistedShadow Publishing for the ARC!
The ending? Respectfully wtf. I’m going to think about this for the next few days. Between Twisted Souls and Metal Slinger, unexpected plot twists and cliffhangers will be my end. I won’t be surprised if this book goes viral, I hope it does. This book deserves all the hype, especially being that this is a debut novel. Twisted Souls is a great addition to the romantasy genre. Thank you to the author and TwistedShadow Publishing for the ARC!
February 3, 2025
Twisted Souls
How do I leave a five-star review without giving away spoilers. Well -
Twisted Souls. A brilliant book. I loved it. You must read it.
Mnnnnn no, that somehow does not hit the mark, I will try again.
This book held me from page one to the very end. It was well paced throughout, but that said, it was me who was racing faster and faster because I needed to know what next, then what next again.
There are three MC's - Two brothers - Jaxon and Xavier and our heroin Zara. There is a love triangle here, but most certainly not in the way as you may expect, and its resolution, so imaginative in a way I have not read before.
The story is based in two worlds on the one hand or several regions with a gate that should be locked between them. To allow for our imaginations to run along with Shannon we have Humans, Witches, Fae, Pixies, and Fate Monsters - think that’s it.
The description of the places the story takes us and the characters is excellent, not too much, just right. The story seems simple enough to follow, except when the twists and curved balls start hitting at us from every direction, and then who is who, and are you sure. So much is not as you think, do not ever feel safe you know who is who and who is on the Darkside or the Lightside.
The love story is beautifully crafted and the romance is so well told, no smut, no lust in the dust, just well weighted romance, and physical romance where it mattered and was needed at a level that was spot on.
This book ends on one of the best cliffhangers I have come across in a long time. The next book is set to start with a bang. The first book is set to leave you looking for the second book.
I believe that this a debut book. Well, my god, if this is a debut, just how stonkingly good is book 3 or 4 going to be. Watch out for Shannon McLellan.
How do I leave a five-star review without giving away spoilers. Well -
Twisted Souls. A brilliant book. I loved it. You must read it.
Mnnnnn no, that somehow does not hit the mark, I will try again.
This book held me from page one to the very end. It was well paced throughout, but that said, it was me who was racing faster and faster because I needed to know what next, then what next again.
There are three MC's - Two brothers - Jaxon and Xavier and our heroin Zara. There is a love triangle here, but most certainly not in the way as you may expect, and its resolution, so imaginative in a way I have not read before.
The story is based in two worlds on the one hand or several regions with a gate that should be locked between them. To allow for our imaginations to run along with Shannon we have Humans, Witches, Fae, Pixies, and Fate Monsters - think that’s it.
The description of the places the story takes us and the characters is excellent, not too much, just right. The story seems simple enough to follow, except when the twists and curved balls start hitting at us from every direction, and then who is who, and are you sure. So much is not as you think, do not ever feel safe you know who is who and who is on the Darkside or the Lightside.
The love story is beautifully crafted and the romance is so well told, no smut, no lust in the dust, just well weighted romance, and physical romance where it mattered and was needed at a level that was spot on.
This book ends on one of the best cliffhangers I have come across in a long time. The next book is set to start with a bang. The first book is set to leave you looking for the second book.
I believe that this a debut book. Well, my god, if this is a debut, just how stonkingly good is book 3 or 4 going to be. Watch out for Shannon McLellan.
February 11, 2025
I received an ARC of this book from BookSirens, and I am providing my honest opinion. No spoilers are in this review.
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Low Spice 🌶🌶
This book was fantastic! I love almost every minute of reading this. When being presented the information in this book, it doesn't feel overwhelming like many first-time authors tend to do. The information on the world building is given as the story progresses, and this made it easier to digest.
I can honestly say I like who I was supposed to and disliked who I was supposed to. The only teetering feeling was Jaxon after his initial introduction. Xavier was giving Xaden Xaddy vibes 🫢
Some things I would like to see improvement on as the series continues are grammar and sentence structure. Sometimes, these took me out of the book because I had to re-read some sentences. Sometimes, the scenery was over described, and it didn't need to be as some descriptions didn't serve a purpose in pushing the plot. There were a few times a room we were brought into once and very briefly was a full paragraph description, and it felt unnecessary to what needed to happen in the room. Especially because the character didn't interact with anything but another character.
These things pale in comparison to the strength in the rest of the story structure. I'm excited about what happens next! I need the next book ASAP!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Low Spice 🌶🌶
This book was fantastic! I love almost every minute of reading this. When being presented the information in this book, it doesn't feel overwhelming like many first-time authors tend to do. The information on the world building is given as the story progresses, and this made it easier to digest.
I can honestly say I like who I was supposed to and disliked who I was supposed to. The only teetering feeling was Jaxon after his initial introduction. Xavier was giving Xaden Xaddy vibes 🫢
Some things I would like to see improvement on as the series continues are grammar and sentence structure. Sometimes, these took me out of the book because I had to re-read some sentences. Sometimes, the scenery was over described, and it didn't need to be as some descriptions didn't serve a purpose in pushing the plot. There were a few times a room we were brought into once and very briefly was a full paragraph description, and it felt unnecessary to what needed to happen in the room. Especially because the character didn't interact with anything but another character.
These things pale in comparison to the strength in the rest of the story structure. I'm excited about what happens next! I need the next book ASAP!
May 6, 2025
I finished an hour ago and am still sitting here speechless over that ending!!
I don’t even know how to adequately put into words how much I loved and adored this book!! It was so refreshing to read a romantasy novel that was so unique while also having some of my favorite elements that are popular within the genre. Please give this a try, my favorite book of the year so far!
October 22, 2025
It was so much better than I expected! ✨ The story was engaging, the plot twists were amazing 😍 and it kept me hooked the whole time. If you’re looking for an action-packed romantasy ⚔️💖 this one’s perfect for you!
I just wish there had been a bit more character development 🫶
With a strong editor, I truly believe this book could make it to the bestseller lists 📚🌟
💞 Love triangle
🪄 Romantasy
👑 Kingdoms at war
🔮 Witches and Fae
🔁 Dual POV
-----------------
Beklediğimden çok daha iyiydi! ✨ Konusu sürükleyiciydi, plot twistler harikaydı 😍 ve kitabı elimden bırakamadım. Aksiyon dolu bir romantasy arıyorsanız ⚔️💖 tam size göre!
Sadece karakter gelişiminin biraz daha derin olmasını isterdim 🫶
İyi bir editörle kitabın çok satanlara girebileceğine gerçekten inanıyorum 📚🌟
I just wish there had been a bit more character development 🫶
With a strong editor, I truly believe this book could make it to the bestseller lists 📚🌟
💞 Love triangle
🪄 Romantasy
👑 Kingdoms at war
🔮 Witches and Fae
🔁 Dual POV
-----------------
Beklediğimden çok daha iyiydi! ✨ Konusu sürükleyiciydi, plot twistler harikaydı 😍 ve kitabı elimden bırakamadım. Aksiyon dolu bir romantasy arıyorsanız ⚔️💖 tam size göre!
Sadece karakter gelişiminin biraz daha derin olmasını isterdim 🫶
İyi bir editörle kitabın çok satanlara girebileceğine gerçekten inanıyorum 📚🌟
July 2, 2025
I would give this book 10 stars if I could. The ending: INSANITY. I have not been this shocked and caught off guard by an ending since I read Fourth Wing! This is an author and series to read. The writing was fluid, intriguing, and the FMC/MMC tension was delicious!
July 11, 2025
**WOULD HAVE NEVER GUESSED THAT ENDING**
The way this took me on the best journey! Was i getting so tired of shadow daddies? Yes. But give me this sassy man all day long! The magic system felt so nostalgic for me and so many parts gave me beauty and the beast feels mixed with fern gully! It was so fun trying to figure out what was going to happen as i was reading. BUT MY GOODNESS the amount of twists and “WTF DID I JUST READ THIS RIGHT” and giggly kicking feet moments i had was so unexpected. I loved taking my time and savoring this book. The tension that was between the 3 of them my goodness🥵 BUT the last 20%… if you love ACOTAR you are going to love this for the same reason of staying through the incline of the roller coaster and letting the story build to its peak then falling like you were on top of a trap door and you’re scrambling to figure out what is happening in the best way. Any way you should def read this. And i need book 2 ASAP!! Also this is her debut book! (It’s a duet) 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
The way this took me on the best journey! Was i getting so tired of shadow daddies? Yes. But give me this sassy man all day long! The magic system felt so nostalgic for me and so many parts gave me beauty and the beast feels mixed with fern gully! It was so fun trying to figure out what was going to happen as i was reading. BUT MY GOODNESS the amount of twists and “WTF DID I JUST READ THIS RIGHT” and giggly kicking feet moments i had was so unexpected. I loved taking my time and savoring this book. The tension that was between the 3 of them my goodness🥵 BUT the last 20%… if you love ACOTAR you are going to love this for the same reason of staying through the incline of the roller coaster and letting the story build to its peak then falling like you were on top of a trap door and you’re scrambling to figure out what is happening in the best way. Any way you should def read this. And i need book 2 ASAP!! Also this is her debut book! (It’s a duet) 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
September 12, 2025
That ending was wicked and rude! i haven't read a cliffhanger that good since metal Slinger.
THAT CLIFFHANGER HAS MY JAW ON THE FLOOR!!!!
I am going to be thinking about that ending for a while!
If you love romantasy, magic, plot twist, and an ending that will have you shocked and your jaw on the floor, this is the book for you!!!!
This book has you guessing what's really going on the entire time.
You learn the world with the fmc, and she is a take no shit type.
Although she grows up a princess and spoiled she still fights for what she wants.
She suddenly finds herself appearing in an unknown place and to a mystery man. The author does a great job of building the world and the plot.
The romance was executed to perfection! Perfect book boyfriend right here! Like do yourself a favor and read this book! I couldn't put this down!!
Okay, goodbye now I am going to go stare at a wall and think about that ending now
THAT CLIFFHANGER HAS MY JAW ON THE FLOOR!!!!
I am going to be thinking about that ending for a while!
If you love romantasy, magic, plot twist, and an ending that will have you shocked and your jaw on the floor, this is the book for you!!!!
This book has you guessing what's really going on the entire time.
You learn the world with the fmc, and she is a take no shit type.
Although she grows up a princess and spoiled she still fights for what she wants.
She suddenly finds herself appearing in an unknown place and to a mystery man. The author does a great job of building the world and the plot.
The romance was executed to perfection! Perfect book boyfriend right here! Like do yourself a favor and read this book! I couldn't put this down!!
Okay, goodbye now I am going to go stare at a wall and think about that ending now
September 17, 2025
"'I plan on doing many things, little stalker,' he whispered, his voice thick with promise. 'Killing you isn't one of them.'"
WOW. I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed this book! It's difficult to believe this is the author's debut. I am a seasoned reader and I still didn't see those plot twists coming.
Every single character felt well-fleshed out. Zara is a formidable FMC. Jaxon, Xander, and their dynamics kept me on the edge, waiting to see how their relationships would play out with Zara. The plot is unique and often had my pulse racing. I can't say more because I don't want to give anything away. I will just say that I will be thinking about this book for a while, and I'll be eagerly anticipating the sequel because man oh man, what an ending that was.
Five emphatic stars for this romantasy. A couple of minor grammar errors, but otherwise, no notes. Go read this. You won't be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
WOW. I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed this book! It's difficult to believe this is the author's debut. I am a seasoned reader and I still didn't see those plot twists coming.
Every single character felt well-fleshed out. Zara is a formidable FMC. Jaxon, Xander, and their dynamics kept me on the edge, waiting to see how their relationships would play out with Zara. The plot is unique and often had my pulse racing. I can't say more because I don't want to give anything away. I will just say that I will be thinking about this book for a while, and I'll be eagerly anticipating the sequel because man oh man, what an ending that was.
Five emphatic stars for this romantasy. A couple of minor grammar errors, but otherwise, no notes. Go read this. You won't be disappointed.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 21, 2025
I'm at a loss for words for this book, it was art, it was enrapturing, it was thrilling, and the ending was fucking heartbreaking to me. Everything about this book was mesmerizing, I fell in love with each of the characters and the plot twist at the end rivals that of MetalSlinger in every way. The author threw you a bone and let you predict what you assume to be the plot of the book but boy are you wrong.
Booktok is going to eat this up, I can already see it.
Also something random but Shannon McLellan did a stellar job of choosing character names that are not so often reused in other stories and I think that added something to my experience.
Huge huge thank you to NetGalley for this one!
Booktok is going to eat this up, I can already see it.
Also something random but Shannon McLellan did a stellar job of choosing character names that are not so often reused in other stories and I think that added something to my experience.
Huge huge thank you to NetGalley for this one!
January 24, 2025
Princess Zara is plagued by a mysterious ability causing her to erratically transport near the alluringly dark King Xavier in the magical world of Nexia. Xavier's brother, Jaxon, has betrayed Xavier horribly, leaving him vulnerable to the continued attack of witches. Zara finds herself in the middle of the developing war, torn between her attraction to both Xavier and Jaxon. Can they return Xavier's magic to him before the queen of the witches prevails in her evil schemes?
Xavier is a very interesting character. Betrayed and at a disadvantage, he is doing his very best to help keep his kingdom safe. He is understandably extremely upset with his brother, particularly as Jaxon has substantially complicated an already bad situation. In comparison, Jaxon is flawed, but is driven to do what he thinks is necessary to help in his own way. The need for the two brothers to work together despite the previous actions of Jaxon is a compelling component to the story, and I wish more time was spent on exploring their reconciliation.
In comparison to the other characters, Zara is surprisingly thoughtless. Her mother is clearly acting strange, and she barely considers it. She is strikingly carefree for a princess of her age, and it seems like little has been done to prepare her to take the throne. Furthermore, she holds a grudge for an extremely long time against Xavier, despite his actions being extremely understandable given what the circumstances. Her sudden extreme loyalty to Jaxon also makes little sense, which makes her seems rather flakey romantically and undermines the believability of her attraction between her and the two brothers.
This book has a pretty blindsiding plot twist, which I'm not exactly sure what I feel about it. Without getting into spoilers, the twist is very unexpected, and there's almost no foreshadowing to indicate what's coming. However, the implications of the twist is fairly frustrating and creates confusion about the past of many characters. Hopefully it'll get ironed out in the next book, but I can't figure out if I'm more interested in reading the next book because of it, or if I'm too frustrated to continue. My enjoyment of the book definitely went down with the twist, but I'm giving extra points for creativity, as it definitely is taking the series in a very different direction.
A solid fantasy with an interesting world and a twist that certainly made me very conflicted.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Xavier is a very interesting character. Betrayed and at a disadvantage, he is doing his very best to help keep his kingdom safe. He is understandably extremely upset with his brother, particularly as Jaxon has substantially complicated an already bad situation. In comparison, Jaxon is flawed, but is driven to do what he thinks is necessary to help in his own way. The need for the two brothers to work together despite the previous actions of Jaxon is a compelling component to the story, and I wish more time was spent on exploring their reconciliation.
In comparison to the other characters, Zara is surprisingly thoughtless. Her mother is clearly acting strange, and she barely considers it. She is strikingly carefree for a princess of her age, and it seems like little has been done to prepare her to take the throne. Furthermore, she holds a grudge for an extremely long time against Xavier, despite his actions being extremely understandable given what the circumstances. Her sudden extreme loyalty to Jaxon also makes little sense, which makes her seems rather flakey romantically and undermines the believability of her attraction between her and the two brothers.
This book has a pretty blindsiding plot twist, which I'm not exactly sure what I feel about it. Without getting into spoilers, the twist is very unexpected, and there's almost no foreshadowing to indicate what's coming. However, the implications of the twist is fairly frustrating and creates confusion about the past of many characters. Hopefully it'll get ironed out in the next book, but I can't figure out if I'm more interested in reading the next book because of it, or if I'm too frustrated to continue. My enjoyment of the book definitely went down with the twist, but I'm giving extra points for creativity, as it definitely is taking the series in a very different direction.
A solid fantasy with an interesting world and a twist that certainly made me very conflicted.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 15, 2025
I’m angry. I’m floored. I’m shook. Did NOT see the twist. I kept trying to guess what the twist would be…but this proud passenger princess would’ve never in a million years put together this ending. Shannon, sister, please give us the next book like tomorrow.
I rarely give reviews, but this book truly deserved one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️from me
Also the spice 🌶️🥵🫣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I rarely give reviews, but this book truly deserved one. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️from me
Also the spice 🌶️🥵🫣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 18, 2025
I read this book through NetGalley. This book is my first Fae related book(also my first arc). The universe was easy to understand, and nothing was too complicated. I really like the characters. No one was too cringe or too dumb for my taste. I will happily wait for the second book.
#Twistedsoulsbook #NetGalley
#Twistedsoulsbook #NetGalley
October 7, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This one missed the mark for me. The premise had potential, but the execution felt criminally undercooked across the board. The writing style seems young, more tell than show, and often drifts into overly descriptive or redundant internal narration. It oftentimes felt like a stream of consciousness from a 20-yr-olds perspective, and while that can work in the right story, here it made the FMC come across as bratty and immature rather than layered and sympathetic.
Both lead main characters are hard to root for. Their connection never goes past surface-level, relying way too heavily on the “fated mates” trope without much substance to make it believable or compelling. Theres one mildly spicy scene, but it’s mid at best - Neither romantic nor particularly steamy.
Worldbuilding was another weak spot. We’re given bare-bones details about the worlds, the mechanics of magic are never explained, there’s just no depth to any of it. Combine that with an ending that felt contrived and predictable (I guessed the twist around page 43 of 333) and it made for a reading experience that was more of a chore than an escape.
There’s a sense that the author might still be finding their voice, and I could see glimmers of promise in some of the ideas. But overall, Twisted Souls felt more like an early draft than a fully realized fantasy romance novel.
That being said, I appreciate the opportunity to read this book early and provide my honest thoughts. Thank you to NetGalley and TwistedShadow publishing for providing this ARC to me!
This one missed the mark for me. The premise had potential, but the execution felt criminally undercooked across the board. The writing style seems young, more tell than show, and often drifts into overly descriptive or redundant internal narration. It oftentimes felt like a stream of consciousness from a 20-yr-olds perspective, and while that can work in the right story, here it made the FMC come across as bratty and immature rather than layered and sympathetic.
Both lead main characters are hard to root for. Their connection never goes past surface-level, relying way too heavily on the “fated mates” trope without much substance to make it believable or compelling. Theres one mildly spicy scene, but it’s mid at best - Neither romantic nor particularly steamy.
Worldbuilding was another weak spot. We’re given bare-bones details about the worlds, the mechanics of magic are never explained, there’s just no depth to any of it. Combine that with an ending that felt contrived and predictable (I guessed the twist around page 43 of 333) and it made for a reading experience that was more of a chore than an escape.
There’s a sense that the author might still be finding their voice, and I could see glimmers of promise in some of the ideas. But overall, Twisted Souls felt more like an early draft than a fully realized fantasy romance novel.
That being said, I appreciate the opportunity to read this book early and provide my honest thoughts. Thank you to NetGalley and TwistedShadow publishing for providing this ARC to me!
January 20, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens and Shannon McLellan for the ARC.
Plot 4/5
Characters 4/5
Ending 3.75/5
Interest 4.25/5
Overall 4/5
-As a whole, I enjoyed myself reading this book. It is fast paced, easy going and there weren’t really many moments where I felt like I was lost, which is always a good thing. Although, the plot didn’t feel complete enough. I understood where the actual issues were that the characters had to resolve but I still didn’t feel like it was enough. But despite that, the book still worked well enough. Furthermore, the worlds were interesting with the separate human and fae realms but issues I have with these types of universes, when the main character leaves one of them, they never really go back. As in they kind of abandon everything they’ve ever known and the people without acknowledging very much.
-I say this again and again but I don’t particularly like the fated mates trope because it never really feels like a true slow burn romance especially when it is tagged as being enemies to lovers. I didn’t like when Zara found out her mate, she was all like it’s too fast, she doesn’t know him well enough when they literally just slept together two minutes before. The characters themselves though are quite interesting without those little aspect I dislike. I do feel kind of bad for Jaxon, he has a special place in me. Additionally, I also don’t like how closely ‘related’ they all are. They technically are not related but it still feels a little uncomfortable in my opinion.
-I said that most of the book didn’t really confuse. That doesn’t count the ending. I got lost at the ending, I didn’t really know where or what was going on. I think I might have an idea but I wish we got a little more explicit things said or described so we kind of got an idea. The cliffhanger was definitely present but I was so lost that it didn’t particular entice me to read the sequel. However, that being said, I would definitely be curious and would like to read more.
Plot 4/5
Characters 4/5
Ending 3.75/5
Interest 4.25/5
Overall 4/5
-As a whole, I enjoyed myself reading this book. It is fast paced, easy going and there weren’t really many moments where I felt like I was lost, which is always a good thing. Although, the plot didn’t feel complete enough. I understood where the actual issues were that the characters had to resolve but I still didn’t feel like it was enough. But despite that, the book still worked well enough. Furthermore, the worlds were interesting with the separate human and fae realms but issues I have with these types of universes, when the main character leaves one of them, they never really go back. As in they kind of abandon everything they’ve ever known and the people without acknowledging very much.
-I say this again and again but I don’t particularly like the fated mates trope because it never really feels like a true slow burn romance especially when it is tagged as being enemies to lovers. I didn’t like when Zara found out her mate, she was all like it’s too fast, she doesn’t know him well enough when they literally just slept together two minutes before. The characters themselves though are quite interesting without those little aspect I dislike. I do feel kind of bad for Jaxon, he has a special place in me. Additionally, I also don’t like how closely ‘related’ they all are. They technically are not related but it still feels a little uncomfortable in my opinion.
-I said that most of the book didn’t really confuse. That doesn’t count the ending. I got lost at the ending, I didn’t really know where or what was going on. I think I might have an idea but I wish we got a little more explicit things said or described so we kind of got an idea. The cliffhanger was definitely present but I was so lost that it didn’t particular entice me to read the sequel. However, that being said, I would definitely be curious and would like to read more.
September 15, 2025
Where to begin? I'll note my standard frustration at this turning out to be a 'book one' of a series when that wasn't mentioned in any description I read before selecting it.
That aside, while I appreciated the final big twist at the end of this book that sets up the potential series and leaves us hanging, so much of what does happen in this book felt unearned.
We are presented with a sort of old timey land with a King and Queen and a Princess who stubbornly hasn't chosen a suitor for the upcoming ball, nor for marriage. She instead insists on 'training' with the men. But we don't get a reason for this. It's just this quirky thing that she does instead of needlepoint or flower arranging. And her parents are ok with it as long as they get to choose which member of the guard trains her. New Captain Jeremy is the one, which makes Princess Zara 'so mad' because Jeremy is very good looking. (Insert eyeroll here).
Zara's best friend is the cook's daughter because of course; Zara is just so quirky that way. The issue isn't that Zara is virginal, it's maybe that it's been a while, and ick, her parents like him.
So the reader knows that it's a magical world type of book because of the blurb, but as presented thus far we have behaviors that don't fit our understanding of olden royal times and absolutely no justification or explanation for any of it and that's before Zara begins to vanish only to materialize near a big broody guy with an aversion to shirts and a bunch of tattoos. Eventually there is a throwaway line to Jeremy about how she used to train with her father as a child and just wanted to start doing it again, but nothing else. No explanation as to why a King would allow his young Princess to do combat training as a child.
Zara's encounters with Xavier, he of the no shirt and tattoos, involve her literally dropping in on him, in less and less clothing because of course, and she totally can't help it because she doesn't have any idea what on earth is happening. And he smells of Cedar and Lemons. Did I mention he smells of cedar and lemons? Because he smells of cedar and lemons. And just so you don't ever forget that the author will mention that Xavier smells of cedar and lemons approximately 1,000 times more.
It turns out that Xavier is a Fae King and he is suspicious that there is magic involved in Zara's pop ins, so he binds her with a charmed chain to keep her in his world while he tries to figure out why she keeps showing up. Everyone thinks she's an adorably fragile human thing that needs to stop distracting their King, because war with the witches is brewing and Xavier's own brother Jaxon has stolen his magic and a piece of his soul. Xavier explains that Zara HAS to care because Jaxon has opened a portal into her human world and the witches and the Daka beasts could cross into her world and destroy it.
Now here's where the reader might think, aha, that's why our girl has been training so hard, so she can stand by Xavier's side and help him win his war against the witches! But nope. Julian and the others in Xavier's court all still have magic and they fight via shooting light or ice or whatever from their hands. There really isn't much physical, hand to hand combat that would justify Zara's training. It also doesn't help her in terms of standing on her own two feet as she falls over often and seems to have zero agility. Eventually the charm begins to weaken her, so the chain is removed only for her to vanish.
Once back home, she fools around with Jeremy, there is a low spice scene between them, and then she and Jeremy suddenly appear back in Xavier's world. To no one's surprise, Jeremy is really Jaxon. And the materializing that Zara keeps doing is Shadowing which people in their realm seem to be able to do in a controlled fashion. We also get, what I suppose is a staple of this genre, the declaration that the woman is MINE!! And we learn that Zara was only even remotely interested in Jeremy/Jaxon, not because he is cute, but because he has a piece of Xavier's soul and that is what she was actually responding to. Ugh.
And I get that it's supposed to be sexy, that HE 'claims' her, that they are 'fated mates' but it all seems sort of ridiculous in general as a trope, but in this story in particular because, first they literally come from different worlds, so what are the odds that your one and only fated mate is from another dimension? And different species? races of beings? whatever you call human v fae. And then the momentary ick that they may randomly all have the same mother.
Zara is not alarmed enough at the knowledge that her mother might be a witch from another world, nor does she speculate if that would make her 'half witch'? She also doesn't give a thought about her poor 'human father' living with a witch Queen.
Eventually Xavier gets his soul and his magic back because of course he does, so that he can have sex with Zara without her pining for Jeremy/Jaxon. And of course, JJ is completely bereft at the loss of Zara because the tiny piece of Xavier's soul in him was enough to make JJ convinced that she was "HIS" mate and giving back the soul doesn't break that pull the way it should have based on what the author has presented.
Now Zara is all in on helping to save Xavier's land from the terrible witches and the Daka with the poison green goo, even though she doesn't have magic and falls into a hole where the fates show her having sex with Xavier and getting his tattoos on her skin because they belong together. (rolling my eyes again)
Witches attack. And what's this, Morgana a powerful witch long thought to be either dead or exiled is back and with Zara's father and with a witch named Lana that convinced JJ to steal Xavier's soul and magic and open the portal between the worlds and did Lana just call Zara ...gasp....sister?!?
Yeah, surprise twist, but it's one that means that book two will be spent trying to explain how Zara fooled us all and by us, I mean, Xavier, JJ and the readers. And it will take a ton of tap dancing to explain away why she was Xavier's "MINE!!" and what happened in the "human" world and why did the King and Morgana only cross over after Zara is marked with Xavier's tattoos and his lemon and cedar scent, when if they have magic, they could have crossed over anytime.
I have such mixed feelings about this book which is why it gets 3 stars from me. I am definitely a binger. I'd rather read all 1,000 pages of War and Peace in one go, than to wait for months or even years for the next book of a series to arrive. I was burned by the Sue Grafton alphabet books, diligently going along for nearly two decades only for her to pass away before ever completing book Z. Never again.
That aside, while I appreciated the final big twist at the end of this book that sets up the potential series and leaves us hanging, so much of what does happen in this book felt unearned.
We are presented with a sort of old timey land with a King and Queen and a Princess who stubbornly hasn't chosen a suitor for the upcoming ball, nor for marriage. She instead insists on 'training' with the men. But we don't get a reason for this. It's just this quirky thing that she does instead of needlepoint or flower arranging. And her parents are ok with it as long as they get to choose which member of the guard trains her. New Captain Jeremy is the one, which makes Princess Zara 'so mad' because Jeremy is very good looking. (Insert eyeroll here).
Zara's best friend is the cook's daughter because of course; Zara is just so quirky that way. The issue isn't that Zara is virginal, it's maybe that it's been a while, and ick, her parents like him.
So the reader knows that it's a magical world type of book because of the blurb, but as presented thus far we have behaviors that don't fit our understanding of olden royal times and absolutely no justification or explanation for any of it and that's before Zara begins to vanish only to materialize near a big broody guy with an aversion to shirts and a bunch of tattoos. Eventually there is a throwaway line to Jeremy about how she used to train with her father as a child and just wanted to start doing it again, but nothing else. No explanation as to why a King would allow his young Princess to do combat training as a child.
Zara's encounters with Xavier, he of the no shirt and tattoos, involve her literally dropping in on him, in less and less clothing because of course, and she totally can't help it because she doesn't have any idea what on earth is happening. And he smells of Cedar and Lemons. Did I mention he smells of cedar and lemons? Because he smells of cedar and lemons. And just so you don't ever forget that the author will mention that Xavier smells of cedar and lemons approximately 1,000 times more.
It turns out that Xavier is a Fae King and he is suspicious that there is magic involved in Zara's pop ins, so he binds her with a charmed chain to keep her in his world while he tries to figure out why she keeps showing up. Everyone thinks she's an adorably fragile human thing that needs to stop distracting their King, because war with the witches is brewing and Xavier's own brother Jaxon has stolen his magic and a piece of his soul. Xavier explains that Zara HAS to care because Jaxon has opened a portal into her human world and the witches and the Daka beasts could cross into her world and destroy it.
Now here's where the reader might think, aha, that's why our girl has been training so hard, so she can stand by Xavier's side and help him win his war against the witches! But nope. Julian and the others in Xavier's court all still have magic and they fight via shooting light or ice or whatever from their hands. There really isn't much physical, hand to hand combat that would justify Zara's training. It also doesn't help her in terms of standing on her own two feet as she falls over often and seems to have zero agility. Eventually the charm begins to weaken her, so the chain is removed only for her to vanish.
Once back home, she fools around with Jeremy, there is a low spice scene between them, and then she and Jeremy suddenly appear back in Xavier's world. To no one's surprise, Jeremy is really Jaxon. And the materializing that Zara keeps doing is Shadowing which people in their realm seem to be able to do in a controlled fashion. We also get, what I suppose is a staple of this genre, the declaration that the woman is MINE!! And we learn that Zara was only even remotely interested in Jeremy/Jaxon, not because he is cute, but because he has a piece of Xavier's soul and that is what she was actually responding to. Ugh.
And I get that it's supposed to be sexy, that HE 'claims' her, that they are 'fated mates' but it all seems sort of ridiculous in general as a trope, but in this story in particular because, first they literally come from different worlds, so what are the odds that your one and only fated mate is from another dimension? And different species? races of beings? whatever you call human v fae. And then the momentary ick that they may randomly all have the same mother.
Zara is not alarmed enough at the knowledge that her mother might be a witch from another world, nor does she speculate if that would make her 'half witch'? She also doesn't give a thought about her poor 'human father' living with a witch Queen.
Eventually Xavier gets his soul and his magic back because of course he does, so that he can have sex with Zara without her pining for Jeremy/Jaxon. And of course, JJ is completely bereft at the loss of Zara because the tiny piece of Xavier's soul in him was enough to make JJ convinced that she was "HIS" mate and giving back the soul doesn't break that pull the way it should have based on what the author has presented.
Now Zara is all in on helping to save Xavier's land from the terrible witches and the Daka with the poison green goo, even though she doesn't have magic and falls into a hole where the fates show her having sex with Xavier and getting his tattoos on her skin because they belong together. (rolling my eyes again)
Witches attack. And what's this, Morgana a powerful witch long thought to be either dead or exiled is back and with Zara's father and with a witch named Lana that convinced JJ to steal Xavier's soul and magic and open the portal between the worlds and did Lana just call Zara ...gasp....sister?!?
Yeah, surprise twist, but it's one that means that book two will be spent trying to explain how Zara fooled us all and by us, I mean, Xavier, JJ and the readers. And it will take a ton of tap dancing to explain away why she was Xavier's "MINE!!" and what happened in the "human" world and why did the King and Morgana only cross over after Zara is marked with Xavier's tattoos and his lemon and cedar scent, when if they have magic, they could have crossed over anytime.
I have such mixed feelings about this book which is why it gets 3 stars from me. I am definitely a binger. I'd rather read all 1,000 pages of War and Peace in one go, than to wait for months or even years for the next book of a series to arrive. I was burned by the Sue Grafton alphabet books, diligently going along for nearly two decades only for her to pass away before ever completing book Z. Never again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
Can someone please come get my jaw up off the floor?! 🤯
Oh my god. What did I even just read?! THAT ENDING. THATS A DAMN PLOT TWIST.
I will need 3-5 business days to process but I will say- LOVED this book. Like holy cow did I love this book!
I need the next one ASAP please 👏😦😭💙
Oh my god. What did I even just read?! THAT ENDING. THATS A DAMN PLOT TWIST.
I will need 3-5 business days to process but I will say- LOVED this book. Like holy cow did I love this book!
I need the next one ASAP please 👏😦😭💙
September 13, 2025
In Twisted Souls, Shannon McLellan delivers a debut romantasy that packs in many of the hallmarks readers love: dual point‐of‐view, fae magic, moral shades of grey, and a love triangle (or more) that complicates loyalties and desire. The setup is promising. Zara, the heroine, suddenly manifests strange abilities that draw her into the world of Xavier—brooding, broken, “fae king with stolen magic and a fractured soul”—and his brother Jaxon, who has his own tangled motives. While witches, fae politics, and looming war raise the stakes, Zara also carries a secret that promises to disrupt everything.
One of the greatest strengths of Twisted Souls is how compellingly McLellan builds tension between characters. Zara’s attraction to both Xavier and Jaxon isn’t simplistic: both men are flawed, burdened by betrayal, and not entirely trustworthy. The romance arc is emotionally rich, especially when it engages with themes like loyalty, betrayal, power, and the cost of magic. Also impressive is the worldbuilding: the dual realms (non‑magical / magical), the threat of witches’ destructive forces, the political intrigue, and the gradual revelation of secrets are handled in ways that keep interest high. Readers generally feel pulled in from early on, wanting to understand Zara’s powers, Xavier’s losses, and Jaxon’s loyalties.
However, the book isn’t without its shortcomings. First, pacing feels uneven in places. The first sections zoom in with good momentum, but there are mid‑sections where the tension dips—often when backstory or exposition steps in more heavily. At times, revelations or emotional shifts seem to occur with less buildup than might make them fully credible. For instance, Zara’s feelings for one character over the other sometimes flip in ways that feel insufficiently foreshadowed. This undercut some emotional payoffs for me. Some readers also note that the romance tropes are familiar (fated mates, enemies‑to‑lovers, royalty, etc.), and while McLellan does add twists, certain plot beats feel derivative of popular works in the genre.
Another drawback is toward the book’s ending: the twist is ambitious and does provide a strong hook for the sequel, but it also raises questions—about character motivations, past events, and consistency—that aren’t fully answered in the text. This kind of cliffhanger works to build anticipation, but for some readers it may feel frustrating, particularly if some arcs feel incomplete. Additionally, though the dual POV is mostly effective, occasionally the shifts felt redundant or repetitive, especially in action or descriptive scenes, diluting some tension or diluting the novelty of switching perspective.
In sum, Twisted Souls is a strong debut. Its emotional tension, rich character dynamics, and intriguing world are major assets. Even with its familiar tropes, it manages to inject enough originality to set it apart. The pacing hiccups and unresolved threads are real, but they don’t overshadow the book’s many pleasures. I give Twisted Souls four stars, and I’m very interested to see where McLellan takes the story in future installments.---
February 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 - Spice 🌶🌶 medium pace, character driven, magic and mortal realm interlinked concurrently, fae, witches, humans.
I have NEVER read a twist like this in my life! Be prepared for a huge cliffhanger! Seriously! Dont think im kidding either!
Duel pov, fast pace to start then slows down to a medium before it suckered punches you at the end!
😈😈😈😈😈😈😈
TW: How do I add these without giving away spoilers...
violence, sexual content, death of a parent-backstory, minor mild torture in 1 short scene
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: fated mates, 'mine', shadow magic, royal family, enemies to lovers kind of, betrayal, love triangle- or square actually, cliff hanger -yes I'm warning you again!
📚 This book had everything I loved in it I just wanted more of it...
The plot is great, The world building is fantastic, and the characters made you love or hate them very quickly. I do wish we had more background / history, on the first war and on the fae lords. It just felt like part of the story was missing without this. And maybe some lore/rules for the fae magic/witches magic would have been helpful as we know their magic is rare, but what is normal magic?
Zara is the only first born prince/princess I've ever read about that Hasn't been trained or prepared for the throne, and has been allowed so much freedom to do as she pleases as if she's just a regular girl and unimportant.
She wants to be independent, which i get, but doesn't really care for anything but herself and her one friend, which leaves her character falling a little flat and feeling shallow. She also doesn't care for her parents very much or care why they're suddenly acting so strangely.
It seems Zara gives her body and her trust to anyone who tells her She's pretty, although she comes across as feisty And strong, suddenly She's all over one brother After just 5 minutes of knowing him, and after her initial feelings were annoyance and frustration. (At 1 point, I thought she was going to bed both Brothers behind their backs at the same time.) i was really annoyed with the intimate scene as I felt her feelings towards him- At least on the outside- showed as uninterested yet there they were... (We readers know she fancied him, but we also know she was confused, conflicted and had been pushing him away.) So to just have her literally give in and open her legs on the first try didn't seem in character with her at all, as I read through the start of the scene I awaited her fury for this brazen act which just didn't come. The scene itself was really well written and had me hot under the collar, by the way! I just expected it to play out differently.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I really enjoyed this read, that's why I wanted more detail. And I do look forward to the next one. Hopefully having more depth. oh, and as for that major plot twist- Wow! Absolutely. No. one. could. see. that. coming!
🤬 I am so angry Shannon!
PS: Keep it up, See you in the next book.
I have NEVER read a twist like this in my life! Be prepared for a huge cliffhanger! Seriously! Dont think im kidding either!
Duel pov, fast pace to start then slows down to a medium before it suckered punches you at the end!
😈😈😈😈😈😈😈
TW: How do I add these without giving away spoilers...
violence, sexual content, death of a parent-backstory, minor mild torture in 1 short scene
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: fated mates, 'mine', shadow magic, royal family, enemies to lovers kind of, betrayal, love triangle- or square actually, cliff hanger -yes I'm warning you again!
📚 This book had everything I loved in it I just wanted more of it...
The plot is great, The world building is fantastic, and the characters made you love or hate them very quickly. I do wish we had more background / history, on the first war and on the fae lords. It just felt like part of the story was missing without this. And maybe some lore/rules for the fae magic/witches magic would have been helpful as we know their magic is rare, but what is normal magic?
Zara is the only first born prince/princess I've ever read about that Hasn't been trained or prepared for the throne, and has been allowed so much freedom to do as she pleases as if she's just a regular girl and unimportant.
She wants to be independent, which i get, but doesn't really care for anything but herself and her one friend, which leaves her character falling a little flat and feeling shallow. She also doesn't care for her parents very much or care why they're suddenly acting so strangely.
It seems Zara gives her body and her trust to anyone who tells her She's pretty, although she comes across as feisty And strong, suddenly She's all over one brother After just 5 minutes of knowing him, and after her initial feelings were annoyance and frustration. (At 1 point, I thought she was going to bed both Brothers behind their backs at the same time.) i was really annoyed with the intimate scene as I felt her feelings towards him- At least on the outside- showed as uninterested yet there they were... (We readers know she fancied him, but we also know she was confused, conflicted and had been pushing him away.) So to just have her literally give in and open her legs on the first try didn't seem in character with her at all, as I read through the start of the scene I awaited her fury for this brazen act which just didn't come. The scene itself was really well written and had me hot under the collar, by the way! I just expected it to play out differently.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
I really enjoyed this read, that's why I wanted more detail. And I do look forward to the next one. Hopefully having more depth. oh, and as for that major plot twist- Wow! Absolutely. No. one. could. see. that. coming!
🤬 I am so angry Shannon!
PS: Keep it up, See you in the next book.
January 20, 2025
I recieved anything ARC from BookSirens of Twisted Souls by Shannon McLellan.
This is a spoiler free review*
Overall, this book was pretty good. It was written well, though I noticed a few spelling/grammar mistakes, but other than that, the writing flows nicely throughout the story and wasn't confusing or misleading, and no plot holes that I could see.
I enjoyed the main characters in the book, they were fleshed out well, though, most secondary characters had little to no background, but, that's common. The FMC, Zara, was both badass, and at times, a little annoying, but not as bad as some others in this genre. The two MMC's were Xavier and Jaxon, were involved in a very dramatic love triangle with Zara, and very much opposites, where Jaxon was very charming, Xavier had that "dark, brooding" type of demeanor.
I wasn't a huge fan of the love triangle, overall, but it's not really my cup of tea in any book, but, so long as the story is good, it doesn't bother me.
There was a lot of the love drama going on, secrets, betrayals, confusion, suspense, lot's of great action scenes, some sexy scenes 😉 and lot's of both interesting and often funny banter between the characters.
At this point, books, especially in the "Fantasy Romance" genre, have really kind of overdone plots that involve the Fae, but, if you happen to really enjoy a romantasy with Fae, you will love it! It keeps you interested, wanting to see what's going to happen next, who she will end up with (?) at the end, and where her journey will take her next.
I recommend giving it a read!
Very good first novel for Shannon!
This is a spoiler free review*
Overall, this book was pretty good. It was written well, though I noticed a few spelling/grammar mistakes, but other than that, the writing flows nicely throughout the story and wasn't confusing or misleading, and no plot holes that I could see.
I enjoyed the main characters in the book, they were fleshed out well, though, most secondary characters had little to no background, but, that's common. The FMC, Zara, was both badass, and at times, a little annoying, but not as bad as some others in this genre. The two MMC's were Xavier and Jaxon, were involved in a very dramatic love triangle with Zara, and very much opposites, where Jaxon was very charming, Xavier had that "dark, brooding" type of demeanor.
I wasn't a huge fan of the love triangle, overall, but it's not really my cup of tea in any book, but, so long as the story is good, it doesn't bother me.
There was a lot of the love drama going on, secrets, betrayals, confusion, suspense, lot's of great action scenes, some sexy scenes 😉 and lot's of both interesting and often funny banter between the characters.
At this point, books, especially in the "Fantasy Romance" genre, have really kind of overdone plots that involve the Fae, but, if you happen to really enjoy a romantasy with Fae, you will love it! It keeps you interested, wanting to see what's going to happen next, who she will end up with (?) at the end, and where her journey will take her next.
I recommend giving it a read!
Very good first novel for Shannon!
March 9, 2025
I am honestly amazed at this book. I have to admit that I read a lot of fantasy novels and I was a little nervous that this would follow the same pattern as all of the new books, but it definitely didn’t. I was captivated by this book from the first chapter. The plot of Twisted Souls is so unique and nicely paced that I just could not put it down. Most books have exciting endings but this one was alluring throughout, and hit all of my romantasy books tropes. I love our strong-willed female character, the mystery to her and the quarrel between the two male leads. Iykyk. I felt that Shannon did such a great job with her descriptions that I could picture the setting and I truly felt for the characters. There were moments in this book that I thought “ha I caught a clue and know what’s going to happen” only for the end to smack me in the face. The cliffhanger at the end??? I was not expecting that and it honestly made my jaw drop. Shannon?! How dare you! I will be eagerly anticipating the next book… due out like yesterday! Highly recommend!
My hopes for the next book are that we learn a little more about the world of magic.. what exactly is Xavier, does his brother have similar magic, we hear of witches but what are the other creatures called per say? Maybe I missed that part. Also, id like to hear more about the war and why it was started, why it is still going on. I felt like this first book only briefly talked about it when explaining Xavier’s parents so I’d like to see that more.
My hopes for the next book are that we learn a little more about the world of magic.. what exactly is Xavier, does his brother have similar magic, we hear of witches but what are the other creatures called per say? Maybe I missed that part. Also, id like to hear more about the war and why it was started, why it is still going on. I felt like this first book only briefly talked about it when explaining Xavier’s parents so I’d like to see that more.
April 12, 2025
If I could give more stars I would. This is the first physical book I have finished in 2025 and in 2 days. As a whole this story was captivating and held my attention so much that I ignored everything to finish it.
And the spice was good i’d say 🌶️🌶️.
There were parts that were predictable which if you are an avid reader you will easily pick up on and is some instances didn’t really seem to be huge plot twist to be revealed. This doesn’t reflect poorly on the writing though or story as a whole and still keeps you interested in what is going to happen next. As an introduction into this new world I found the world building, magic and history easy to follow and not overwhelming. There were some spots when the POV switched where you are reading the description of something twice but it didn’t really bother me.
I can’t wait for the next book.
Spoilers are below
The brothers, Jaxon and Xavier give Stefan and Damon Salvatore vibes all day. You don’t know which one you are rooting for. Sadly though I didn’t know I was gonna get Katherine freaking Pierced by the end of it. That ending was brutal and I had to think back on so many parts to see if I could have seen it coming. The mom yeah but Zara are you kidding me. I felt blindsided. This is the first book i think i have read where a narrator was unreliable. Like i need to know what Zara’s thoughts really were this whole time what was happening in between the moments she jumped from one world to the next and where she goes from here. I want to keep liking her.
And the spice was good i’d say 🌶️🌶️.
There were parts that were predictable which if you are an avid reader you will easily pick up on and is some instances didn’t really seem to be huge plot twist to be revealed. This doesn’t reflect poorly on the writing though or story as a whole and still keeps you interested in what is going to happen next. As an introduction into this new world I found the world building, magic and history easy to follow and not overwhelming. There were some spots when the POV switched where you are reading the description of something twice but it didn’t really bother me.
I can’t wait for the next book.
Spoilers are below
The brothers, Jaxon and Xavier give Stefan and Damon Salvatore vibes all day. You don’t know which one you are rooting for. Sadly though I didn’t know I was gonna get Katherine freaking Pierced by the end of it. That ending was brutal and I had to think back on so many parts to see if I could have seen it coming. The mom yeah but Zara are you kidding me. I felt blindsided. This is the first book i think i have read where a narrator was unreliable. Like i need to know what Zara’s thoughts really were this whole time what was happening in between the moments she jumped from one world to the next and where she goes from here. I want to keep liking her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2025
Perfect!
✔️ Magic
✔️ Fae/witches/vampires
✔️ Multiple Realms
✔️ Likeable FMC and MMC(s)
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Touch her and die
✔️ Enemies to lovers
✔️ He falls first
✔️ Fated Mates
I ran across the advertisement for this book on ticktok ( @shannonmclellan.author). Imagine my surprise when shortly after I saw the author at an indie author book fair. Obviously, fate was looking at me like 🤨, so I purchased the book.
Part of the setting takes place in the human realm where Zara mysteriously gains shadow magic that permits her to travel between realms, where she falls (literally) into the arms of Xavier, Fae King of Nexia, who's magic and a part of his soul has been stolen.
Jaxson is Xavier's younger brother who is in the human realm chasing a secret mission in his world that in turn may cause more harm than good.
Zara is torn between both brothers who both fall first. The reason becomes apparent further along in the story.
This story is FULL of secrets. Xavier, Jaxson...Hell! Even Zara's mother and father, King and Queen of their land, with Zara possibly holding the biggest secret of all!
I am usually great at figuring out a story line as I read before I make it to the end of the book. But Shaaannoooooon!!!! The way my jaw DROPPED! I am literally thanking the Book God's that I not only stumbled across your social media but also got to meet you in person to purchase a personalized signed copy. I cannot wait until the next book drops so I can plan to dedicate an entire day to devour it for breakfast and lunch 😩
✔️ Magic
✔️ Fae/witches/vampires
✔️ Multiple Realms
✔️ Likeable FMC and MMC(s)
✔️ Dual POV
✔️ Touch her and die
✔️ Enemies to lovers
✔️ He falls first
✔️ Fated Mates
I ran across the advertisement for this book on ticktok ( @shannonmclellan.author). Imagine my surprise when shortly after I saw the author at an indie author book fair. Obviously, fate was looking at me like 🤨, so I purchased the book.
Part of the setting takes place in the human realm where Zara mysteriously gains shadow magic that permits her to travel between realms, where she falls (literally) into the arms of Xavier, Fae King of Nexia, who's magic and a part of his soul has been stolen.
Jaxson is Xavier's younger brother who is in the human realm chasing a secret mission in his world that in turn may cause more harm than good.
Zara is torn between both brothers who both fall first. The reason becomes apparent further along in the story.
This story is FULL of secrets. Xavier, Jaxson...Hell! Even Zara's mother and father, King and Queen of their land, with Zara possibly holding the biggest secret of all!
I am usually great at figuring out a story line as I read before I make it to the end of the book. But Shaaannoooooon!!!! The way my jaw DROPPED! I am literally thanking the Book God's that I not only stumbled across your social media but also got to meet you in person to purchase a personalized signed copy. I cannot wait until the next book drops so I can plan to dedicate an entire day to devour it for breakfast and lunch 😩
November 16, 2025
This story drew me in immediately. It begins with a princess who is inexplicably repeatedly pulled into another realm—to land straight on Xavier, the dark and brooding Fae King of Nexia. Back in her own world, Captain Jeremy of the king’s guard steadily claims her reluctant attention, creating a compelling tension between the two realms she moves between.
As her mysterious journeys continue, she discovers secrets and betrayals. Her family isn’t what she believed, Jeremy certainly isn’t, and she needs to entangle this web of lies to recover Xavier‘s magic t and save both realms.
This is for you if you enjoy:
• Fated mates
• A dragon
• Bloodthirsty witches
• Fractured magic and stolen power
• Dangerous secrets between brothers
• A shadow-adjacent MMC—even one with a white streak, emerald eyes, and a citrus-and- cedar scent
• Deceit, shifting loyalties
Not for you if you prefer to avoid:
• An almost–love triangle
• A cliffhanger with a twist with Metalslinger vibes
• Dual POV
The writing is engaging and emotionally resonant and I found myself rereading parts the next day. It’s not earth-shattering, but for me it was addictive—the kind of story that settles under your skin and leaves you impatient for what comes next.
And now? I am shattered. I need answers. Where is the sequel and why isn’t it shadowing to me?
As her mysterious journeys continue, she discovers secrets and betrayals. Her family isn’t what she believed, Jeremy certainly isn’t, and she needs to entangle this web of lies to recover Xavier‘s magic t and save both realms.
This is for you if you enjoy:
• Fated mates
• A dragon
• Bloodthirsty witches
• Fractured magic and stolen power
• Dangerous secrets between brothers
• A shadow-adjacent MMC—even one with a white streak, emerald eyes, and a citrus-and- cedar scent
• Deceit, shifting loyalties
Not for you if you prefer to avoid:
• An almost–love triangle
• A cliffhanger with a twist with Metalslinger vibes
• Dual POV
The writing is engaging and emotionally resonant and I found myself rereading parts the next day. It’s not earth-shattering, but for me it was addictive—the kind of story that settles under your skin and leaves you impatient for what comes next.
And now? I am shattered. I need answers. Where is the sequel and why isn’t it shadowing to me?
December 23, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book sent me down an amazing adventure. I was very much invested in what was happening with Zara and following along with her finding out about these magical powers. Just to be thrusted into what feels like an epic love triangle between brothers. An almost impossible choice between the two men both worthy of love and more. All three of them are on a desperate journey to save not just one realm but two and only the fates know how this might end. The story up to this point is riveting all on its own and that's just what was teased in the description of the book. I found myself unable to stop reading trying to piece together all of the puzzle's pieces together before the end. Just for the cute cozy picture I was making to be completely flipped on its head with that twist. Also, for that to be the end of the book I was not okay. I will be waiting for the next book because how could you just stop right there. This is a really good read.
This book sent me down an amazing adventure. I was very much invested in what was happening with Zara and following along with her finding out about these magical powers. Just to be thrusted into what feels like an epic love triangle between brothers. An almost impossible choice between the two men both worthy of love and more. All three of them are on a desperate journey to save not just one realm but two and only the fates know how this might end. The story up to this point is riveting all on its own and that's just what was teased in the description of the book. I found myself unable to stop reading trying to piece together all of the puzzle's pieces together before the end. Just for the cute cozy picture I was making to be completely flipped on its head with that twist. Also, for that to be the end of the book I was not okay. I will be waiting for the next book because how could you just stop right there. This is a really good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2025
Omg! When I tell you I haven’t been this captivated by a series with a cliffhanger in so loud!! This story wove an incredible tale of secrets, loss, heartbreak, finding love and reunion that kept me on the edge of my seat! This author was new to me but she definitely lulled me into a false sense of security thinking I was following along with possible scenarios just to completely blindside me and pull the wool over my eyes at the end!! I am so anxious for the next installment! I seriously advise if you are a fantasy lover to check this one out! Hell even if you aren’t this also caters to romance and angst lovers alike! I don’t want to say too much and spoil anything but this is a tale of two realms, one plagued by impending war the other in danger because of past doings. Of encounters that leave more to be discovered, people that are more or less than what they claim and love fighting to win! Take a chance and dive into the world of Velra and Nexia!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2025
This was an unexpected 5 star read for me!!
If you loved ACOTAR, you’re going to eat this book up. This is a faster paced romantasy book that gave me similar feelings to reading ACOTAR and Fourth Wing. Trust me you need to read this one. I’m already anticipating the next book in the series.
FMC is a princess from the human realm. The beginning was giving Bridgerton, and I was here for it. It’s a dual POV with one of the most powerful faes in the Fae realm. This book has it all. Fae, witches, mates, griffins, and a friend group giving similar vibes to the night court posse. Good amount of twists throughout the whole book to keep you engaged with a massive twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. I can’t say much else without giving spoilers.
I picked a signed copy up at a local bookstore called Burning Pages in Wilmington. I have family from NC, so I wanted to support a local author. The employees highly recommended this book if I liked romantasy. I am SO HAPPY I decided to purchase this one. It’s also on KU so read this asap!!
If you loved ACOTAR, you’re going to eat this book up. This is a faster paced romantasy book that gave me similar feelings to reading ACOTAR and Fourth Wing. Trust me you need to read this one. I’m already anticipating the next book in the series.
FMC is a princess from the human realm. The beginning was giving Bridgerton, and I was here for it. It’s a dual POV with one of the most powerful faes in the Fae realm. This book has it all. Fae, witches, mates, griffins, and a friend group giving similar vibes to the night court posse. Good amount of twists throughout the whole book to keep you engaged with a massive twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. I can’t say much else without giving spoilers.
I picked a signed copy up at a local bookstore called Burning Pages in Wilmington. I have family from NC, so I wanted to support a local author. The employees highly recommended this book if I liked romantasy. I am SO HAPPY I decided to purchase this one. It’s also on KU so read this asap!!
November 22, 2025
If you like a slow burn romance, Fae, and adventure, this is a book for you.
Zara is a strong, stubborn princess whose life starts changing when her odd "dreams" begin. Being able to move to other places wasn't something Zara was expecting, or even realized was truly happening at first. Living in a human realm, she travels to a realm with Fae, magic, and an attractive man she always seems to appear near. Xavier, a king himself, is relentless is trying to figure out who Zara is and what she wants. He has been busy fighting with witches for centuries, and the attacks are beginning to increase and get closer to the castle. He's able to trap her in his realm as his prisoner.
I devoured this book. The chapters go back and forth between Zara, who doesn't understand the magical realm, to Xavier, who has lived in it his entire life. I loved having both of their views of the situations they get into. I typically can predict books, but this one has quite a twist at the end that I never saw coming. I can't wait for the next book!
Zara is a strong, stubborn princess whose life starts changing when her odd "dreams" begin. Being able to move to other places wasn't something Zara was expecting, or even realized was truly happening at first. Living in a human realm, she travels to a realm with Fae, magic, and an attractive man she always seems to appear near. Xavier, a king himself, is relentless is trying to figure out who Zara is and what she wants. He has been busy fighting with witches for centuries, and the attacks are beginning to increase and get closer to the castle. He's able to trap her in his realm as his prisoner.
I devoured this book. The chapters go back and forth between Zara, who doesn't understand the magical realm, to Xavier, who has lived in it his entire life. I loved having both of their views of the situations they get into. I typically can predict books, but this one has quite a twist at the end that I never saw coming. I can't wait for the next book!
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