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Cinnamon Soul
Introducing Cinna and Hokuren, two delightful women detectives forming a loving found family, in a heartwarming and fresh cozy fantasy mystery standalone that kicks off a series!
In the city of Velles, where magic and ambition collide, Seeker Hokuren and her uncanny assistant Cinna are barely keeping their investigation business afloat. Their luck seems to change when they outwit the infamous Master Thief, a feat that should earn them a much-needed reward. But the city’s undercurrents run deeper than petty crime. They're summoned by the prince and tasked with finding his missing adopted daughter, Princess Nyana, whose disappearance is tangled with the vanishing of the palace’s golden-armored Captain of the Guard.
As Hokuren and Cinna dig through secret passages and whispered fears, they uncover more than a runaway princess. The palace guards speak of a captain whose presence chills the air, and Nyana’s closest confidante hints at a desperate escape from royal expectations. When thugs destroy their office and assassins strike in the night, the case turns personal. Cinna’s hidden gifts and painful past come to light, binding the partners together as they realize the city’s protectors may be its greatest threat.
With their livelihoods—and lives—on the line, Hokuren and Cinna must decide how far they’ll go to seek the truth in a city where justice is as elusive as magic.
A lighthearted and fast-paced fantasy adventure full of action, mystery and sly humor, Cinnamon Soul is also the heart-warming exploration of an unbreakable bond of friendship forged between two women as they struggle against the forces of the elite and powerful.
In the city of Velles, where magic and ambition collide, Seeker Hokuren and her uncanny assistant Cinna are barely keeping their investigation business afloat. Their luck seems to change when they outwit the infamous Master Thief, a feat that should earn them a much-needed reward. But the city’s undercurrents run deeper than petty crime. They're summoned by the prince and tasked with finding his missing adopted daughter, Princess Nyana, whose disappearance is tangled with the vanishing of the palace’s golden-armored Captain of the Guard.
As Hokuren and Cinna dig through secret passages and whispered fears, they uncover more than a runaway princess. The palace guards speak of a captain whose presence chills the air, and Nyana’s closest confidante hints at a desperate escape from royal expectations. When thugs destroy their office and assassins strike in the night, the case turns personal. Cinna’s hidden gifts and painful past come to light, binding the partners together as they realize the city’s protectors may be its greatest threat.
With their livelihoods—and lives—on the line, Hokuren and Cinna must decide how far they’ll go to seek the truth in a city where justice is as elusive as magic.
A lighthearted and fast-paced fantasy adventure full of action, mystery and sly humor, Cinnamon Soul is also the heart-warming exploration of an unbreakable bond of friendship forged between two women as they struggle against the forces of the elite and powerful.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2025
21 people are currently reading
958 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 15, 2025
I received a copy of this book for free for promotional purposes.
This was such a fun fantasy tale!
The strongest part of the book were the two lead characters, Cinna and Hokuren. I absolutely loved their friendship and the found family nature of it. They have both been through a lot and it was so heartwarming to see them act and care for each other like family. Both characters were also well developed and I enjoyed discovering their backstories.
The world building was also well done. It was easy to understand the world and the magic system. I never felt lost; it was all explained thoroughly.
The story was very entertaining and kept me hooked. There were lots of twists and turns. However, I didn’t love how much Cinna ended up getting beat up. It got repetitive at times. I loved Cinna and I hated seeing her constantly get hurt.
Lastly, the cover may be cute because of the art style, but it is not a middle grade or young adult fantasy, so keep that in mind. The story is not super mature, but it is written for an adult audience.
Overall, this was a great fantasy read with lovable characters and an exciting setting. If you’re looking for a fantasy read that focuses on friendship rather than romance, check this one out!
This was such a fun fantasy tale!
The strongest part of the book were the two lead characters, Cinna and Hokuren. I absolutely loved their friendship and the found family nature of it. They have both been through a lot and it was so heartwarming to see them act and care for each other like family. Both characters were also well developed and I enjoyed discovering their backstories.
The world building was also well done. It was easy to understand the world and the magic system. I never felt lost; it was all explained thoroughly.
The story was very entertaining and kept me hooked. There were lots of twists and turns. However, I didn’t love how much Cinna ended up getting beat up. It got repetitive at times. I loved Cinna and I hated seeing her constantly get hurt.
Lastly, the cover may be cute because of the art style, but it is not a middle grade or young adult fantasy, so keep that in mind. The story is not super mature, but it is written for an adult audience.
Overall, this was a great fantasy read with lovable characters and an exciting setting. If you’re looking for a fantasy read that focuses on friendship rather than romance, check this one out!
May 23, 2025
Fantasy Story with Noir Detective Elements
I borrowed this book thanks to the Kindle Unlimited subscription I share with my girlfriend, and I read it on my tablet and phone using the Kindle app.
I really enjoy original fantasy stories, especially when they include Dungeons & Dragons-style elements—and this one has exactly that, and even more! The story features a pair of well-developed characters whose dynamic is reason enough to pick up the book. Hakuren is a private investigator struggling with the usual money problems, and Cinna, his female companion, is not only intelligent and sharp but also incredibly fun to read.
The plot kicks off when a prince hires them to find his missing daughter—a mission that leads to all sorts of adventures and introduces an expanding cast of characters.
It’s a delightful story, perfect not just for young adult readers but for anyone who loves fantasy with a touch of noir detective flair. I truly hope the author continues this series with a second book!
I borrowed this book thanks to the Kindle Unlimited subscription I share with my girlfriend, and I read it on my tablet and phone using the Kindle app.
I really enjoy original fantasy stories, especially when they include Dungeons & Dragons-style elements—and this one has exactly that, and even more! The story features a pair of well-developed characters whose dynamic is reason enough to pick up the book. Hakuren is a private investigator struggling with the usual money problems, and Cinna, his female companion, is not only intelligent and sharp but also incredibly fun to read.
The plot kicks off when a prince hires them to find his missing daughter—a mission that leads to all sorts of adventures and introduces an expanding cast of characters.
It’s a delightful story, perfect not just for young adult readers but for anyone who loves fantasy with a touch of noir detective flair. I truly hope the author continues this series with a second book!
April 10, 2025
Following investigative Seeker Hokuren and her assistant and bodyguard, Cinna, they have just received a commission from the Prince and the job is to find his missing daughter who chose to run away?!
We meet all manners of different friends of Hokuren, which we love. She's got some preettyy sweet connections alright. We watch as Cinna is at the centre of some badass action scenes. It's a sweet, fun and light-hearted story with a dabble of magic on the side, and foreshadowing to something wayy more. It's not all sunshine and rainbows though.
Yes I won't lie, it is kinda predictable but I still really enjoyed reading. Also, I adore Cinna! She grows on me soooo much. I will happily take her in!!
The casual mention of queer relationships is so relieving and as it should be.
Lots of things happening along the way. Some may call it chaos, we call it a hell of a journey and adventure! For sure, I'm looking forward to following Cinna and Hokuren's adventures further!
Thank you to Fondence City Press and NetGalley for providing me with the eARC and the opportunity to read and provide an honest review!
We meet all manners of different friends of Hokuren, which we love. She's got some preettyy sweet connections alright. We watch as Cinna is at the centre of some badass action scenes. It's a sweet, fun and light-hearted story with a dabble of magic on the side, and foreshadowing to something wayy more. It's not all sunshine and rainbows though.
Yes I won't lie, it is kinda predictable but I still really enjoyed reading. Also, I adore Cinna! She grows on me soooo much. I will happily take her in!!
The casual mention of queer relationships is so relieving and as it should be.
Lots of things happening along the way. Some may call it chaos, we call it a hell of a journey and adventure! For sure, I'm looking forward to following Cinna and Hokuren's adventures further!
Thank you to Fondence City Press and NetGalley for providing me with the eARC and the opportunity to read and provide an honest review!
April 14, 2025
"Cinnamon Soul” is a spellbinding blend of fantasy and mystery that hooked me from the very first page!
At the heart of the story are two unforgettable heroines: Human Seeker Hokuren and Elf “Fighter” Cinna. These fierce women make an unstoppable team, running Hokuren’s Seeker agency with a mix of sharp intellect and sheer willpower. Hokuren, the calm and calculating profiler, and Cinna, the passionate, fist-slinging muscle, complement each other perfectly.
Fresh off their biggest case yet, the duo is approached by none other than the Prince of Velles himself, who tasks them with a high-stakes mission: locating his missing daughter, the elusive princess—and rumoured “Vessel of Senara.” At first, the case seems almost straightforward: did the princess vanish to escape danger, or did she leave of her own free will?
But as Hokuren and Cinna dive deeper into the search, the mystery begins to unravel in ways they never expected. Their journey reveals not only hidden layers within the city they thought they knew but also secrets from their own pasts—each revelation more captivating than the last.
This book brought the spirit of Dungeons & Dragons to life for me—intentionally or not, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in the middle of a beautifully crafted campaign.
There’s everything you could hope for: seekers and fighters (honestly, “Seeker” needs to be its own D&D class), ogres and monstrous lake creatures, elves, gods, wizards, demons, a perilous journey, an ancient mystery, and deep self-discovery. It’s all here, wrapped up in a narrative that feels both epic and intimate.
The prose? Elegant, yet cozy—like settling into your favourite armchair by the fire. There were so many moments where I found myself completely swept away, the words melting off the page as the scenes unfolded vividly in my mind. The city of Velles and world around it came to life in stunning detail, thanks to world-building that’s intricate without ever becoming tedious and overwhelming. Lawrence reveals just enough at the perfect times, keeping the plot moving while enriching the emotional connection to the characters and the world they inhabit.
I especially loved the interesting names of the city’s businesses and suburbs—I'll keep those a secret so you can enjoy the delight of discovering them on your own—and the magic system is equally clever. Quinn Lawrence has built something truly special here.
I’m thrilled this is only the first in a series, because "Cinnamon Soul" lays the groundwork for what could easily become a beloved high-fantasy anthology. There’s still so much of this world to explore, so many characters I want to follow, and I can’t wait to see what mystery Cinna and Hokuren will dive into next.
Huge thanks to BookSirens and the author for the advanced reader copy for my honest review!
Final Rating: 4.5
At the heart of the story are two unforgettable heroines: Human Seeker Hokuren and Elf “Fighter” Cinna. These fierce women make an unstoppable team, running Hokuren’s Seeker agency with a mix of sharp intellect and sheer willpower. Hokuren, the calm and calculating profiler, and Cinna, the passionate, fist-slinging muscle, complement each other perfectly.
Fresh off their biggest case yet, the duo is approached by none other than the Prince of Velles himself, who tasks them with a high-stakes mission: locating his missing daughter, the elusive princess—and rumoured “Vessel of Senara.” At first, the case seems almost straightforward: did the princess vanish to escape danger, or did she leave of her own free will?
But as Hokuren and Cinna dive deeper into the search, the mystery begins to unravel in ways they never expected. Their journey reveals not only hidden layers within the city they thought they knew but also secrets from their own pasts—each revelation more captivating than the last.
This book brought the spirit of Dungeons & Dragons to life for me—intentionally or not, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in the middle of a beautifully crafted campaign.
There’s everything you could hope for: seekers and fighters (honestly, “Seeker” needs to be its own D&D class), ogres and monstrous lake creatures, elves, gods, wizards, demons, a perilous journey, an ancient mystery, and deep self-discovery. It’s all here, wrapped up in a narrative that feels both epic and intimate.
The prose? Elegant, yet cozy—like settling into your favourite armchair by the fire. There were so many moments where I found myself completely swept away, the words melting off the page as the scenes unfolded vividly in my mind. The city of Velles and world around it came to life in stunning detail, thanks to world-building that’s intricate without ever becoming tedious and overwhelming. Lawrence reveals just enough at the perfect times, keeping the plot moving while enriching the emotional connection to the characters and the world they inhabit.
I especially loved the interesting names of the city’s businesses and suburbs—I'll keep those a secret so you can enjoy the delight of discovering them on your own—and the magic system is equally clever. Quinn Lawrence has built something truly special here.
I’m thrilled this is only the first in a series, because "Cinnamon Soul" lays the groundwork for what could easily become a beloved high-fantasy anthology. There’s still so much of this world to explore, so many characters I want to follow, and I can’t wait to see what mystery Cinna and Hokuren will dive into next.
Huge thanks to BookSirens and the author for the advanced reader copy for my honest review!
Final Rating: 4.5
April 18, 2025
A difficult one to classify!
Based on the cover and title, I thought it targeted a very young audience (middle grade), but the content is actually more YA+. It comes with a cozy label but it features deaths (plural), beatings, and action at a breakneck pace, so not sure about that either 😳 It's certainly not your average Legends and Lattes. I've seen another reviewer calling it "anime" and I find that perfect. The craziness and humor reminded me of Soul Eater in particular, and I had a fun time.
I'll get the minus points out of the way first, as usual.
☔The pacing wasn't my favorite. I found the first 30% of the book perfect pace-wise, with a good balance between the action & getting to know the characters. After that, the story jumped on the bullet train. So many characters, locations and events (some rather traumatic) came and went before I had time to metabolize them. It made me feel increasingly detached from the story and I found that a pity.
☔Hokuren's character came across as a little bland to me. It stood out even more because every other character, even if it was on page for 2 lines, had a strong, unique characterization. But if you ask me about Hokuren, I wouldn't be able to describe her. Is she motherly? Ambitious? Strict? Why does she care so much about Cinna? Why is she so afraid of fighting if she was in the Watch before?? So many questions 😆 my guess is that she'll be the main focus of future books, but I would have loved to get to know her better.
💧Not really a minus point, more of a pet peeve... I enjoyed the writing style, but I would have liked a more distinct voice between the two main characters' POVs. Plus, their names were often repeated many times on the same page, which I found a little distracting.
Ok, enough whining, off to the good parts.
☀️ Already mentioned, but... The characters!! How is every NPC so memorable?? I found it incredible!
☀️Still related to characters... Cinna is THE BEST. I adored her crazy raw energy and her jokes made me chuckle more times than I can count. I found her an incredible character and loved her growth.
☀️The world building! It was deeper than I expected. It makes me want to spend more time in this world, and learn about it. The author also did a good job at sprinkling the info, instead of dumping it all in one place. Perhaps knowing more of the world earlier on would have set the stakes better (a random example, ), but I still found it well done.
For someone like me who tends to read mostly "slow" books, it was a nice change in pace and a colorful adventure. Curious to see what this author has in store next for Hokuren and Cinna!
Based on the cover and title, I thought it targeted a very young audience (middle grade), but the content is actually more YA+. It comes with a cozy label but it features deaths (plural), beatings, and action at a breakneck pace, so not sure about that either 😳 It's certainly not your average Legends and Lattes. I've seen another reviewer calling it "anime" and I find that perfect. The craziness and humor reminded me of Soul Eater in particular, and I had a fun time.
I'll get the minus points out of the way first, as usual.
☔The pacing wasn't my favorite. I found the first 30% of the book perfect pace-wise, with a good balance between the action & getting to know the characters. After that, the story jumped on the bullet train. So many characters, locations and events (some rather traumatic) came and went before I had time to metabolize them. It made me feel increasingly detached from the story and I found that a pity.
☔Hokuren's character came across as a little bland to me. It stood out even more because every other character, even if it was on page for 2 lines, had a strong, unique characterization. But if you ask me about Hokuren, I wouldn't be able to describe her. Is she motherly? Ambitious? Strict? Why does she care so much about Cinna? Why is she so afraid of fighting if she was in the Watch before?? So many questions 😆 my guess is that she'll be the main focus of future books, but I would have loved to get to know her better.
💧Not really a minus point, more of a pet peeve... I enjoyed the writing style, but I would have liked a more distinct voice between the two main characters' POVs. Plus, their names were often repeated many times on the same page, which I found a little distracting.
Ok, enough whining, off to the good parts.
☀️ Already mentioned, but... The characters!! How is every NPC so memorable?? I found it incredible!
☀️Still related to characters... Cinna is THE BEST. I adored her crazy raw energy and her jokes made me chuckle more times than I can count. I found her an incredible character and loved her growth.
☀️The world building! It was deeper than I expected. It makes me want to spend more time in this world, and learn about it. The author also did a good job at sprinkling the info, instead of dumping it all in one place. Perhaps knowing more of the world earlier on would have set the stakes better (a random example, ), but I still found it well done.
For someone like me who tends to read mostly "slow" books, it was a nice change in pace and a colorful adventure. Curious to see what this author has in store next for Hokuren and Cinna!
April 22, 2025
Cinnamon Soul is a vibrant fantasy mystery that follows the quirky and sharp duo of Hokuren, a former City Watch captain turned private investigator, and her barefoot, bolt-catching assistant, Cinna. Set in the magical, lively city of Velles, the story kicks off with the thrilling capture of the infamous Master Thief, Maxwell Barnaby, and quickly pivots into a high-stakes search for a missing princess. What follows is an investigation tangled with royal secrets, ominous knights, and lots of banter. It’s part buddy-cop, part classic whodunit, and it’s got a cinnamon-sweet heart running through all the grit.
Quinn Lawrence knows how to make dialogue pop, and the chemistry between Cinna and Hokuren is honestly the soul of the book. That first scene where Cinna casually catches a crossbow bolt mid-air? I was hooked right then. She’s scrappy, hilarious, and kind of terrifying in the best way. Meanwhile, Hokuren’s got this tired but determined energy that makes her both lovable and sharp. It's impressive how Hokuren maintains her composure and sharpness, even while managing her assistant during tense moments, such as when she calmly redirects Cinna amid the emotional breakdown of a key witness and still extracts vital information. Their dynamic adds energy and warmth to the narrative, elevating even the story’s quieter moments.
But it’s not all jokes and clever quips. There’s some genuinely unsettling mystery stuff here, especially around Julien Davenport, the Captain of the Guard. The man might be a myth; he never takes off his armor, there’s no underwear in his wardrobe, and his voice is always “next to you”? Creepy. The whole palace has this weird vibe, like something’s off and no one’s saying it out loud. Hokuren and Cinna navigating all that with such different energy , the calm investigator and the chaotic brawler, makes the palace scenes tense in a great way.
The pacing dips here and there, especially in the middle when they’re gathering intel and poking through rooms, but honestly, I didn’t mind too much because the characters carry the story. Anne, the lady-in-waiting, ends up being more complex than expected, and her breakdown when she spills secrets about Nyana and the prince? Heavy stuff. You start to feel like something darker’s going on under the surface, and even when the book plays it light, the edges are sharp.
Cinnamon Soul is for anyone who loves smart, character-driven fantasy with a strong mystery at its core. If you liked The Dresden Files, Veronica Mars, or even The Witcher but wish it came with more charm and less grimdark, this one’s for you. I’m absolutely picking up the next book in the series. I want more of Cinna's antics, more of Hokuren’s stubborn brilliance, and definitely more of whatever weird secrets are lurking in Velles.
Quinn Lawrence knows how to make dialogue pop, and the chemistry between Cinna and Hokuren is honestly the soul of the book. That first scene where Cinna casually catches a crossbow bolt mid-air? I was hooked right then. She’s scrappy, hilarious, and kind of terrifying in the best way. Meanwhile, Hokuren’s got this tired but determined energy that makes her both lovable and sharp. It's impressive how Hokuren maintains her composure and sharpness, even while managing her assistant during tense moments, such as when she calmly redirects Cinna amid the emotional breakdown of a key witness and still extracts vital information. Their dynamic adds energy and warmth to the narrative, elevating even the story’s quieter moments.
But it’s not all jokes and clever quips. There’s some genuinely unsettling mystery stuff here, especially around Julien Davenport, the Captain of the Guard. The man might be a myth; he never takes off his armor, there’s no underwear in his wardrobe, and his voice is always “next to you”? Creepy. The whole palace has this weird vibe, like something’s off and no one’s saying it out loud. Hokuren and Cinna navigating all that with such different energy , the calm investigator and the chaotic brawler, makes the palace scenes tense in a great way.
The pacing dips here and there, especially in the middle when they’re gathering intel and poking through rooms, but honestly, I didn’t mind too much because the characters carry the story. Anne, the lady-in-waiting, ends up being more complex than expected, and her breakdown when she spills secrets about Nyana and the prince? Heavy stuff. You start to feel like something darker’s going on under the surface, and even when the book plays it light, the edges are sharp.
Cinnamon Soul is for anyone who loves smart, character-driven fantasy with a strong mystery at its core. If you liked The Dresden Files, Veronica Mars, or even The Witcher but wish it came with more charm and less grimdark, this one’s for you. I’m absolutely picking up the next book in the series. I want more of Cinna's antics, more of Hokuren’s stubborn brilliance, and definitely more of whatever weird secrets are lurking in Velles.
June 10, 2025
Wow! What a ride. Cinnamon Soul by Quinn Lawrence is a deeply character-driven exploration of identity, trauma, and the complicated inheritance of power. At the heart of this story is Cinna, an orphaned elf with no illusions about her place in the world. She’s sarcastic, stubborn, and scuffed by life—but that’s what makes her so compelling.
From its opening pages, the novel delivers a whip-smart narrative voice that’s impossible to ignore. Cinna is a force, barreling through the alleyways of Velles chasing criminals one moment, and then stumbling, quite literally, into a spiritual awakening the next. When it’s revealed that a goddess named Senara has been secretly living in her soul since birth, the narrative pivots into something far more layered: an examination of consent, purpose, and self-determination.
What I found particularly affecting was how the novel treats divinity with skepticism. Cinna doesn't revere Senara; she challenges her. And the more the goddess reveals about Cinna’s past and future, the more the novel begins to interrogate the very idea of divine right. It's bold, philosophical, and filled with ethical grey zones that I loved wading through.
But don’t let the existential themes fool you because this book is also funny, fast-paced, and full of brilliant world-building. The magical systems are creative, the politics are messy and real, and the supporting cast grounds the narrative in emotional truth. Hokuren’s steady presence and fierce protectiveness offer the perfect foil to Cinna’s recklessness.
The soul-world segments, dripping with surreal detail, gave me Spirited Away vibes but laced with a distinctly adult kind of grief and growth. There’s something truly special in how author Lawrence renders the soul: moss-covered ground, blueberry-dotted dresses from forgotten childhood dreams, and monsters that speak like mentors.
By the time I turned the last page, I was exhausted in the best way. Cinnamon Soul confronts and demands that we question who gets to shape a destiny, and whether inherited power, divine or otherwise, is ever truly benign. Highly recommended for readers who crave emotionally rich fantasy with brains, heart, and teeth.
From its opening pages, the novel delivers a whip-smart narrative voice that’s impossible to ignore. Cinna is a force, barreling through the alleyways of Velles chasing criminals one moment, and then stumbling, quite literally, into a spiritual awakening the next. When it’s revealed that a goddess named Senara has been secretly living in her soul since birth, the narrative pivots into something far more layered: an examination of consent, purpose, and self-determination.
What I found particularly affecting was how the novel treats divinity with skepticism. Cinna doesn't revere Senara; she challenges her. And the more the goddess reveals about Cinna’s past and future, the more the novel begins to interrogate the very idea of divine right. It's bold, philosophical, and filled with ethical grey zones that I loved wading through.
But don’t let the existential themes fool you because this book is also funny, fast-paced, and full of brilliant world-building. The magical systems are creative, the politics are messy and real, and the supporting cast grounds the narrative in emotional truth. Hokuren’s steady presence and fierce protectiveness offer the perfect foil to Cinna’s recklessness.
The soul-world segments, dripping with surreal detail, gave me Spirited Away vibes but laced with a distinctly adult kind of grief and growth. There’s something truly special in how author Lawrence renders the soul: moss-covered ground, blueberry-dotted dresses from forgotten childhood dreams, and monsters that speak like mentors.
By the time I turned the last page, I was exhausted in the best way. Cinnamon Soul confronts and demands that we question who gets to shape a destiny, and whether inherited power, divine or otherwise, is ever truly benign. Highly recommended for readers who crave emotionally rich fantasy with brains, heart, and teeth.
April 18, 2025
Book Review: Cinnamon Soul by I. R. Faulkner
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 rounded up to 5)
Cinnamon Soul is a smart, snarky, and surprisingly emotional fantasy mystery that delivers far more than its whimsical title suggests. Set in a richly imagined world full of grimy backstreets, magical bureaucracy, and stubborn elf assistants, this book blends noir-style detective fiction with cozy fantasy in a way that feels fresh and genuinely fun.
Hokuren, a sharp-tongued former city watch officer turned reluctant private investigator, is one of those characters who grow on you fast. She’s broke, bitter, and mostly solving lost cat cases—until a missing princess and a suspiciously personal royal commission pull her into a far more dangerous investigation than she bargained for. Her assistant Cinna, an elven firecracker with a keen mind and limited patience, steals just about every scene he’s in. Their banter is easily one of the book’s highlights, laced with dry wit, exasperated loyalty, and real emotional depth.
The mystery at the heart of the book—an elf kidnapping conspiracy tied to forbidden magic—starts off small and spirals into a layered web of secrets, betrayals, and political intrigue. The pacing is tight, and while the worldbuilding is more suggestive than encyclopedic, it gives just enough to feel lived-in without bogging down the narrative. Fans of The Dresden Files, The Locked Tomb series, or even Legends & Lattes will likely appreciate the blend of grit and heart here.
My only minor critique is that some emotional beats—particularly relating to Hokuren’s past—could have used more space to breathe. There are moments where the snark shields a deeper hurt, and while we get glimpses of that pain, I wanted just a bit more of it exposed. That said, it feels like this is just the beginning of a much bigger story.
In short: Cinnamon Soul is a clever, heartfelt, and slightly crunchy fantasy mystery with two unforgettable leads and a whole lot of charm. If you’re in the mood for magical noir with heart—and maybe a slice of blueberry pie—it’s well worth your time.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 rounded up to 5)
Cinnamon Soul is a smart, snarky, and surprisingly emotional fantasy mystery that delivers far more than its whimsical title suggests. Set in a richly imagined world full of grimy backstreets, magical bureaucracy, and stubborn elf assistants, this book blends noir-style detective fiction with cozy fantasy in a way that feels fresh and genuinely fun.
Hokuren, a sharp-tongued former city watch officer turned reluctant private investigator, is one of those characters who grow on you fast. She’s broke, bitter, and mostly solving lost cat cases—until a missing princess and a suspiciously personal royal commission pull her into a far more dangerous investigation than she bargained for. Her assistant Cinna, an elven firecracker with a keen mind and limited patience, steals just about every scene he’s in. Their banter is easily one of the book’s highlights, laced with dry wit, exasperated loyalty, and real emotional depth.
The mystery at the heart of the book—an elf kidnapping conspiracy tied to forbidden magic—starts off small and spirals into a layered web of secrets, betrayals, and political intrigue. The pacing is tight, and while the worldbuilding is more suggestive than encyclopedic, it gives just enough to feel lived-in without bogging down the narrative. Fans of The Dresden Files, The Locked Tomb series, or even Legends & Lattes will likely appreciate the blend of grit and heart here.
My only minor critique is that some emotional beats—particularly relating to Hokuren’s past—could have used more space to breathe. There are moments where the snark shields a deeper hurt, and while we get glimpses of that pain, I wanted just a bit more of it exposed. That said, it feels like this is just the beginning of a much bigger story.
In short: Cinnamon Soul is a clever, heartfelt, and slightly crunchy fantasy mystery with two unforgettable leads and a whole lot of charm. If you’re in the mood for magical noir with heart—and maybe a slice of blueberry pie—it’s well worth your time.
June 1, 2025
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (rounded up to 4)
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I received this book through a giveaway for my Kindle. Thank you Quinn Lawrence and Goodreads
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TLDR: Cinnamon Soul is a rewarding read for those who enjoy character-driven fantasy with a mystery at its heart. While the slow start may deter some, readers who stick with it will find a richly imagined world and memorable characters that make the journey worthwhile.
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Quinn Lawrence’s Cinnamon Soul transports readers to the vibrant, magic-laced city of Velles, where former City Watch captain Hokuren is doing her best to keep her struggling investigation business afloat. When Prince Leopold hires her to find his missing daughter, the case seems straightforward, but it soon unravels into a far-reaching mystery involving forgotten magic, political tension, and long-buried elven secrets.
At the center of the story is Cinna, Hokuren’s elven assistant and bodyguard. She’s unapologetically tough, an expert fighter, and fiercely loyal. Lawrence develops her with nuance and care, making her both a force in combat and a strong emotional anchor. Senara, another key character, also stands out with quiet strength and layered complexity.
The novel’s main drawback is its pacing. The first quarter moves slowly, with an exposition that may test some readers. Fortunately, the payoff is worth the wait. As the narrative picks up, the pieces fall into place, delivering a story full of intrigue.
Additionally, Hokuren herself was difficult to connect with. Her demeanor is occasionally grating, especially early on. However, her growth throughout the story adds necessary dimension to her character and strengthens the narrative overall. I can also see character development occurring later-on (assuming the author will continue this series).
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I received this book through a giveaway for my Kindle. Thank you Quinn Lawrence and Goodreads
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TLDR: Cinnamon Soul is a rewarding read for those who enjoy character-driven fantasy with a mystery at its heart. While the slow start may deter some, readers who stick with it will find a richly imagined world and memorable characters that make the journey worthwhile.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Quinn Lawrence’s Cinnamon Soul transports readers to the vibrant, magic-laced city of Velles, where former City Watch captain Hokuren is doing her best to keep her struggling investigation business afloat. When Prince Leopold hires her to find his missing daughter, the case seems straightforward, but it soon unravels into a far-reaching mystery involving forgotten magic, political tension, and long-buried elven secrets.
At the center of the story is Cinna, Hokuren’s elven assistant and bodyguard. She’s unapologetically tough, an expert fighter, and fiercely loyal. Lawrence develops her with nuance and care, making her both a force in combat and a strong emotional anchor. Senara, another key character, also stands out with quiet strength and layered complexity.
The novel’s main drawback is its pacing. The first quarter moves slowly, with an exposition that may test some readers. Fortunately, the payoff is worth the wait. As the narrative picks up, the pieces fall into place, delivering a story full of intrigue.
Additionally, Hokuren herself was difficult to connect with. Her demeanor is occasionally grating, especially early on. However, her growth throughout the story adds necessary dimension to her character and strengthens the narrative overall. I can also see character development occurring later-on (assuming the author will continue this series).
January 5, 2026
Ah, this was wonderful. Admittedly, the start bored me a bit, but once Cinna and Hokuren, the two main characters from the cover, have met up and introduced their work to the reader, it had me hooked. I couldn't put it down afterwards, taking my phone out whenever I got some spare time, for example during cooking or even on the toilet. I'm a slow reader, so having it finished in 3 days is quite fast for me.
I didn’t expect it to be queer with no romance, yet without any queer-baiting either. Those books are rare af. Cinna's and Hokuren's platonic partnership was just perfect, chosen family trope with a deep emotional bond that is much better than and transcends any rose-relationship. I couldn't ask for more between them, except that maybe it's a little too short (– no, it's not, I just crave more of them). I can't wait for a sequel or even a spin-off, anything from Velles, their world and them.
Quinn Lawrence mentioned the first draft was the result of a DnD campaign with her peers, and that's pretty much what it reads like. Although never having played DnD myself, I did engage in many freeform RPGs, most being Fantasy, so I know a bit of the RPGverse genre.
It's not your typical fantasy book, but in a splendid way. Distancing itself from the mainstream fantasy, but not being all too different, simply by being more diverse and unique. You'll see a lot of recurring tropes and elements that are found in many medieval fantasy settings, but also a bunch of new spins on them, blasting with creativity that refuses to be confined within the chains of TikTok popularity.
As someone who dislikes basic/kitsch cliches a lot and avoids mainstream or trendy media a little too extremely than necessary, I know quite some about uniqueness. This book does not embody the ‘I'm not like other girls/guys’ trope – it’s genuine diversity, “just being myself for myself”, or as Cinna puts it, “I’m no one’s girlfriend”.
The switching dual pov from a godly (3rd person) but limited perspective I‘ve only read once before, and that was from a story I've written myself. It's cool to have found another author who did this pov style, and finally experienced how it's read as a reader. I've gotten the feedback that it sounds complicated, and in theory I'd agree, but this proves, at least for me, that it's actually not that difficult. One just has to be a bit more attentive to know when the pov is switching while the two characters are together.
I really love the art style of the cover, but I agree that it kind of lures a more younger audience in. I imagined a slice of life, perhaps even an idle or iyashikei-like life of them, maybe living on a farm or on the countryside, going about with their peaceful life and reading books all day or so. Fairytale-like. Similar to Heidi, perhaps, with more magic. A shepherd and a mercenary or librarian.
Didn't expect it to be detective-like, playing inside a city with the youngest active characters being around 25. The image of Hokuren and Cinna in their office, which is featured on Quinn's website, that's what would've fit the vibe of this volume more, I believe. Hokuren also looks much older in that drawing – on the cover they look the same age, maybe 5 years apart. Also, Cinna's skin tone is written to be light brown, which, on the cover, looks more white to me. (It was a neat surprise though. Having 2 non-white protagonists in a high fantasy setting is rare.)
But the art style does fit the world as well as Quinn's gripping writing style. I may have not expected the story, but it wasn't a disappointment. Quite the opposite. A crime fantasy book that technically reads like a youngster’s adventure, yet the themes and language are definitely for adults. Recommended age starts at 20s. I loved the crime aspect too – thinking of theories and all that is what I’m into anyways, so investigating alongside with them was super fun.
At least the two women's friendship is portrayed wonderfully on the cover. <3
A minor critique is the distance from nature. It’s no secret that elves are naturally more connected to nature than humans, regardless of which universe, therefore no spoilers here; yet Quinn didn’t let her characters treat nature very well. They occasionally got help by non-humanoid beings, and yet didn’t thank them much or cared about nature well enough to deserve that help, to be honest. Apart from Cinna’s hatred towards shoes, there ain’t much a difference between the two species.
As a vegan environmentalist, that did hurt a bit. (As it hurt the elven goddess, presumably.) It’s just quite ironic. Idk, maybe that was the point, to show that elves shouldn’t mingle with humans, otherwise they’re gonna become like them …
Another criticism is that there should've been more disability rep – the characters do get injured or are hindered by minor things, especially during the final battle, but with Cinna's magical healing ability and Hokuren being the mind rather than the fist, there aren't many injuries that last long.
Although Cinna has some subtext of being autistic or having ADHD, or both. I could relate to her a lot. But as Quinn hasn't confirmed anything, I don't want to label any character, and it's not like it disables her much. Perhaps she could have a learning disability, though, which did make things a bit more difficult in some plot points, but also given her backstory, it could simply be a lack of brain muscle training.
Well, either way, labels aren't always necessary; point is, there could’ve been more physical disabilities – especially for the era it plays in and the fact that there is barely any magic anymore. Autistics/ADHDs may connect with Cinna, though.
Overall very recommended. 5/5 stars, I loved every bit, almost didn’t want it to end. Almost – because the characters deserve some rest. XP
Also, the humor is amusing. It’s queernormative, feminist, and surprisingly (but thankfully) not racist. Only speciesist.
All characters felt real and in-depth, which was also supported by random remarks or conversations between them; the types that are usually deleted in the final draft because beta readers or editors claim it to be “not relevant to the plot”. Well, a lot of the info was very irrelevant to their goal, true, but not so much to show they aren’t NPCs whose life has begun the moment the reader open the first page. (Vibes a lot of books give.)
And Cinna teaches the reader how it’s not so bad to be yourself sometimes, even when it doesn’t fit with societal norms.
Ps. The fact that “lightpens”, an ‘invention’/concept of mine from about 5-6 years ago, and blueberries, my favorite fruit, had quite a role (more or less, respectively) in it, surely was a lovely surprise. 🫐
~
Thank you to Fondence City Press on Netgalley for an eARC.
-Ayxan Solongo, 15.04.25
I didn’t expect it to be queer with no romance, yet without any queer-baiting either. Those books are rare af. Cinna's and Hokuren's platonic partnership was just perfect, chosen family trope with a deep emotional bond that is much better than and transcends any rose-relationship. I couldn't ask for more between them, except that maybe it's a little too short (– no, it's not, I just crave more of them). I can't wait for a sequel or even a spin-off, anything from Velles, their world and them.
Quinn Lawrence mentioned the first draft was the result of a DnD campaign with her peers, and that's pretty much what it reads like. Although never having played DnD myself, I did engage in many freeform RPGs, most being Fantasy, so I know a bit of the RPGverse genre.
It's not your typical fantasy book, but in a splendid way. Distancing itself from the mainstream fantasy, but not being all too different, simply by being more diverse and unique. You'll see a lot of recurring tropes and elements that are found in many medieval fantasy settings, but also a bunch of new spins on them, blasting with creativity that refuses to be confined within the chains of TikTok popularity.
As someone who dislikes basic/kitsch cliches a lot and avoids mainstream or trendy media a little too extremely than necessary, I know quite some about uniqueness. This book does not embody the ‘I'm not like other girls/guys’ trope – it’s genuine diversity, “just being myself for myself”, or as Cinna puts it, “I’m no one’s girlfriend”.
The switching dual pov from a godly (3rd person) but limited perspective I‘ve only read once before, and that was from a story I've written myself. It's cool to have found another author who did this pov style, and finally experienced how it's read as a reader. I've gotten the feedback that it sounds complicated, and in theory I'd agree, but this proves, at least for me, that it's actually not that difficult. One just has to be a bit more attentive to know when the pov is switching while the two characters are together.
I really love the art style of the cover, but I agree that it kind of lures a more younger audience in. I imagined a slice of life, perhaps even an idle or iyashikei-like life of them, maybe living on a farm or on the countryside, going about with their peaceful life and reading books all day or so. Fairytale-like. Similar to Heidi, perhaps, with more magic. A shepherd and a mercenary or librarian.
Didn't expect it to be detective-like, playing inside a city with the youngest active characters being around 25. The image of Hokuren and Cinna in their office, which is featured on Quinn's website, that's what would've fit the vibe of this volume more, I believe. Hokuren also looks much older in that drawing – on the cover they look the same age, maybe 5 years apart. Also, Cinna's skin tone is written to be light brown, which, on the cover, looks more white to me. (It was a neat surprise though. Having 2 non-white protagonists in a high fantasy setting is rare.)
But the art style does fit the world as well as Quinn's gripping writing style. I may have not expected the story, but it wasn't a disappointment. Quite the opposite. A crime fantasy book that technically reads like a youngster’s adventure, yet the themes and language are definitely for adults. Recommended age starts at 20s. I loved the crime aspect too – thinking of theories and all that is what I’m into anyways, so investigating alongside with them was super fun.
At least the two women's friendship is portrayed wonderfully on the cover. <3
A minor critique is the distance from nature. It’s no secret that elves are naturally more connected to nature than humans, regardless of which universe, therefore no spoilers here; yet Quinn didn’t let her characters treat nature very well. They occasionally got help by non-humanoid beings, and yet didn’t thank them much or cared about nature well enough to deserve that help, to be honest. Apart from Cinna’s hatred towards shoes, there ain’t much a difference between the two species.
As a vegan environmentalist, that did hurt a bit. (As it hurt the elven goddess, presumably.) It’s just quite ironic. Idk, maybe that was the point, to show that elves shouldn’t mingle with humans, otherwise they’re gonna become like them …
Another criticism is that there should've been more disability rep – the characters do get injured or are hindered by minor things, especially during the final battle, but with Cinna's magical healing ability and Hokuren being the mind rather than the fist, there aren't many injuries that last long.
Although Cinna has some subtext of being autistic or having ADHD, or both. I could relate to her a lot. But as Quinn hasn't confirmed anything, I don't want to label any character, and it's not like it disables her much. Perhaps she could have a learning disability, though, which did make things a bit more difficult in some plot points, but also given her backstory, it could simply be a lack of brain muscle training.
Well, either way, labels aren't always necessary; point is, there could’ve been more physical disabilities – especially for the era it plays in and the fact that there is barely any magic anymore. Autistics/ADHDs may connect with Cinna, though.
Overall very recommended. 5/5 stars, I loved every bit, almost didn’t want it to end. Almost – because the characters deserve some rest. XP
Also, the humor is amusing. It’s queernormative, feminist, and surprisingly (but thankfully) not racist. Only speciesist.
All characters felt real and in-depth, which was also supported by random remarks or conversations between them; the types that are usually deleted in the final draft because beta readers or editors claim it to be “not relevant to the plot”. Well, a lot of the info was very irrelevant to their goal, true, but not so much to show they aren’t NPCs whose life has begun the moment the reader open the first page. (Vibes a lot of books give.)
And Cinna teaches the reader how it’s not so bad to be yourself sometimes, even when it doesn’t fit with societal norms.
Ps. The fact that “lightpens”, an ‘invention’/concept of mine from about 5-6 years ago, and blueberries, my favorite fruit, had quite a role (more or less, respectively) in it, surely was a lovely surprise. 🫐
~
Thank you to Fondence City Press on Netgalley for an eARC.
-Ayxan Solongo, 15.04.25
March 21, 2025
First and foremost, thank you to NetGalley and Fodence City Press for the opportunity to review this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review:
It is abundantly clear throughout this story that the author, Quinn Lawrence, is a DnD'r. The whole book read as a DnD campaign reimagined into a novel. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing. Cinnamon Soul was fun, charming, and engaging with plenty of humor to keep it going. The story was a mix of high fantasy with smatterings of more modern ideas such as newspapers, elevators, and my personal favorite: the Copyit, a magic machine that copies whatever image is fed into it by its operator. On the opposite end of the spectrum there is plenty mentions of magic and magic items in a world where it seems magic is dying out.
I absolutely adored the two main characters, Hokuren and Cinna. Hokuren, a former member of the City Watch (police) has no desire to return to her old life, but as a relatively new private investigator, needs a break from cases that involve finding missing cats along with her underpaid Elven assistant, Cinna.
Every character in this was well rounded and fun, though regrettably, the character I absolutely fell in love with only appeared for a couple split up chapters.
But I do feel I need to mention the cover. While the cover art is sweet, the style is charming, and the artist is clearly incredibly talented, it definitely gives off younger vibes than what this book is slated for. When I first saw the cover, my initial reaction was something closer to middle grade, but the book is listed as General Fiction (Adult) and New Adult.
Still, this was an incredibly fun read that I devoured in just over a day and I'll certainly be on the lookout for anymore work including Hokuren and Cinna.
Review:
It is abundantly clear throughout this story that the author, Quinn Lawrence, is a DnD'r. The whole book read as a DnD campaign reimagined into a novel. Not that that is necessarily a bad thing. Cinnamon Soul was fun, charming, and engaging with plenty of humor to keep it going. The story was a mix of high fantasy with smatterings of more modern ideas such as newspapers, elevators, and my personal favorite: the Copyit, a magic machine that copies whatever image is fed into it by its operator. On the opposite end of the spectrum there is plenty mentions of magic and magic items in a world where it seems magic is dying out.
I absolutely adored the two main characters, Hokuren and Cinna. Hokuren, a former member of the City Watch (police) has no desire to return to her old life, but as a relatively new private investigator, needs a break from cases that involve finding missing cats along with her underpaid Elven assistant, Cinna.
Every character in this was well rounded and fun, though regrettably, the character I absolutely fell in love with only appeared for a couple split up chapters.
But I do feel I need to mention the cover. While the cover art is sweet, the style is charming, and the artist is clearly incredibly talented, it definitely gives off younger vibes than what this book is slated for. When I first saw the cover, my initial reaction was something closer to middle grade, but the book is listed as General Fiction (Adult) and New Adult.
Still, this was an incredibly fun read that I devoured in just over a day and I'll certainly be on the lookout for anymore work including Hokuren and Cinna.
September 9, 2025
Going by the cover, this book seemed like a cozy fantasy mystery/detective story - which is was but also had so fun fights and towards the end was more of an action adventure. I still enjoyed the story, but after sitting with it for several days I'm not sure how I feel about it. It's still four stars as it was an enjoyable fast read.
We have two POV characters Hokuren - a seeker who used to work for the city guard but was forced out. She holds herself to a high standard and believes in her detective work. Cinna is an orphan elf, who takes her position as assistant/bodyguard to Hokuren very seriously, and also she hates shoes.
Cinna, while brash and abrasive, was a fun and unique character. Head strong and knows how to handle herself in a fight, not to mention some secrets about her past. Hokuren on the other hand acts as her foil, to opposite, and yet I wanted more from her. I think what annoyed me the most is that whenever there was a fight Hokuren would hide or be told to hide by Cinna. For someone who was part of the guard and had sword training this didn't fit with her character. Especially when she has her skills tested in the climax.
I think many of my issues had to do with the climax which their planning felt very slapdash and hasty considering what they were up against. And I found it very had to believe that these two with no special skills could take out these bad guys, that they would take them on alone, and that the BBG would just sit and wait for them.
Despite my issues with the climax, I do think it still deserves a four star. This book set up the rest of the series well, though after the big baddie they take out in this book, I don't know how the villain set up from the resolution will live up to the bad this BBG set.
We have two POV characters Hokuren - a seeker who used to work for the city guard but was forced out. She holds herself to a high standard and believes in her detective work. Cinna is an orphan elf, who takes her position as assistant/bodyguard to Hokuren very seriously, and also she hates shoes.
Cinna, while brash and abrasive, was a fun and unique character. Head strong and knows how to handle herself in a fight, not to mention some secrets about her past. Hokuren on the other hand acts as her foil, to opposite, and yet I wanted more from her. I think what annoyed me the most is that whenever there was a fight Hokuren would hide or be told to hide by Cinna. For someone who was part of the guard and had sword training this didn't fit with her character. Especially when she has her skills tested in the climax.
I think many of my issues had to do with the climax which their planning felt very slapdash and hasty considering what they were up against. And I found it very had to believe that these two with no special skills could take out these bad guys, that they would take them on alone, and that the BBG would just sit and wait for them.
Despite my issues with the climax, I do think it still deserves a four star. This book set up the rest of the series well, though after the big baddie they take out in this book, I don't know how the villain set up from the resolution will live up to the bad this BBG set.
April 2, 2025
What started out as a seemingly-cozy whodunit in an engaging and vibrant fantasy world, turned out to be surprisingly intense!! The main characters are both extremely likeable and fun, the writing engaging and approachable, and overall, this is a fantastic debut from a new fantasy author who is very obviously no stranger to the D&D table.
The main plotline grows organically and starts sprawling out into something where you, as the reader, feel like you can trust no one, and a LOT of ground work seems to have been laid for future books. I can't wait to find out more about the state of magic, to see the progression of the world and the new problems that crop up for this pair.
I do feel as if there were a few pacing issues. The investigations seemed to drag in spots, and in the end, a bit of deus ex machina exposition did some heavy lifting in terms of getting answers to some character-related questions. With that, I do think that's forgivable in a book that really feels like it doesn't want to get TOO darkly serious, and I do think that what it lacks in depth and poignancy, it makes up for in sincerity. I never found any point at which I was bored or uninterested, I just didn't find myself too emotionally engaged.
This really was a lovely book, rich with themes of found family, a charming cast of secondary characters both good and evil and an interesting world, and when Cinna and Hokuren have their next adventure, I'll be right there with them.
The main plotline grows organically and starts sprawling out into something where you, as the reader, feel like you can trust no one, and a LOT of ground work seems to have been laid for future books. I can't wait to find out more about the state of magic, to see the progression of the world and the new problems that crop up for this pair.
I do feel as if there were a few pacing issues. The investigations seemed to drag in spots, and in the end, a bit of deus ex machina exposition did some heavy lifting in terms of getting answers to some character-related questions. With that, I do think that's forgivable in a book that really feels like it doesn't want to get TOO darkly serious, and I do think that what it lacks in depth and poignancy, it makes up for in sincerity. I never found any point at which I was bored or uninterested, I just didn't find myself too emotionally engaged.
This really was a lovely book, rich with themes of found family, a charming cast of secondary characters both good and evil and an interesting world, and when Cinna and Hokuren have their next adventure, I'll be right there with them.
March 24, 2025
Thank you to the author for kindly giving me an ARC.
This was a really fun fantasy read about a private investigator and her assistant trying to track down the Prince's daughter. I absolutely love Cinna as a character, her backstory was really well-crafted, and I love how we see more light-hearted features of her personality as the novel progresses. Both Cinna and Hokuren are very complex, multi-faceted characters that are extremely likeable and understandable. The dynamic between them is great; once again I loved the balance between te more light-hearted features of their realtionship, and the more serious ones, where they share their backstories with each other, and admit that they're both afraid of losing the other one.
Honestly at no point could I predict where the narrative was going (in the best way!) and I absolutely loved the twists and turns of the story. As soon as I thought I had an idea of what was happening, another element was introduced, and I was back to being clueless.
The background characters were all really unique and each brought something special to the story. I loved the queernormative world and the element of magic introduced into it.
Overall, a really great light-hearted fantasy, with darker elements, and fantastic character building.
This was a really fun fantasy read about a private investigator and her assistant trying to track down the Prince's daughter. I absolutely love Cinna as a character, her backstory was really well-crafted, and I love how we see more light-hearted features of her personality as the novel progresses. Both Cinna and Hokuren are very complex, multi-faceted characters that are extremely likeable and understandable. The dynamic between them is great; once again I loved the balance between te more light-hearted features of their realtionship, and the more serious ones, where they share their backstories with each other, and admit that they're both afraid of losing the other one.
Honestly at no point could I predict where the narrative was going (in the best way!) and I absolutely loved the twists and turns of the story. As soon as I thought I had an idea of what was happening, another element was introduced, and I was back to being clueless.
The background characters were all really unique and each brought something special to the story. I loved the queernormative world and the element of magic introduced into it.
Overall, a really great light-hearted fantasy, with darker elements, and fantastic character building.
May 30, 2025
Cinnamon Soul by Quinn Lawrence is a well crafted fantasy story aimed at young adults and adults alike. The cover has a manga-esque style quality, and holds a number of similarities with such stories in many ways. Inside is a heart felt adventure, light hearted but serious in parts, and revolves around some key and crucial character relationships and bonds.
Hokuren and Cinna are wonderful characters to get to know and I really felt the care develop between them as the plot progresses. I admire Hokuren’s adventurous spirit and determined nature, and this reflects well on Cinna, whose loyalty and friendship are admirable traits. Their dialogue is organic and witty, but does not detract from the quickly evolving plot, and I liked that their bond was always reinforced within their interactions.
The plot develops quickly after the introduction, and the author sets the scene well. There are a lot of unanswered questions and a lot to uncover within the pages, and I found myself unexpectedly hooked by the plot. By the time the book ends, there are enough answered questions to keep me satisfied, but a lot left unsaid which makes me want more.
A light-hearted, fun-filled adventure, suitable for all, CInnamon Soul is full of spark and love with a wonderfully told story.
Hokuren and Cinna are wonderful characters to get to know and I really felt the care develop between them as the plot progresses. I admire Hokuren’s adventurous spirit and determined nature, and this reflects well on Cinna, whose loyalty and friendship are admirable traits. Their dialogue is organic and witty, but does not detract from the quickly evolving plot, and I liked that their bond was always reinforced within their interactions.
The plot develops quickly after the introduction, and the author sets the scene well. There are a lot of unanswered questions and a lot to uncover within the pages, and I found myself unexpectedly hooked by the plot. By the time the book ends, there are enough answered questions to keep me satisfied, but a lot left unsaid which makes me want more.
A light-hearted, fun-filled adventure, suitable for all, CInnamon Soul is full of spark and love with a wonderfully told story.
May 25, 2025
Enjoyable Fantasy with Likeable Charatcers
I borrowed Cinnamon Soul on Kindle and really enjoyed it. It’s a light, easy-to-follow fantasy mystery with a cozy tone and some fun twists. I found the main characters, Hokuren and her assistant Cinna, to be extremely likable right from the start. IMHO - their dynamic is what carried the story for me and made it very enjoyable. I liked the character specs: Hokuren is sarcastic and tough, while Cinna is sweet and surprisingly capable. What made this stand out is mainly the storyline: The case they take on starts simple—a missing princess—but quickly becomes more layered, with magic, conspiracies, and a deeper mystery tied to Cinna herself.
I appreciated the worldbuilding: accessible without being too detailed, and the humor made the heavier moments easier to read. I liked the mix of magic, odd villains, and moments of action. It did feel like a few explanations came too quickly at the end, and some parts dragged a bit in the middle. Still, I stayed interested all the way through.
This is a lighter alter-world fantasy— fun, character-driven mystery that sets the stage for more. I’d read the next book in a heartbeat.
I borrowed Cinnamon Soul on Kindle and really enjoyed it. It’s a light, easy-to-follow fantasy mystery with a cozy tone and some fun twists. I found the main characters, Hokuren and her assistant Cinna, to be extremely likable right from the start. IMHO - their dynamic is what carried the story for me and made it very enjoyable. I liked the character specs: Hokuren is sarcastic and tough, while Cinna is sweet and surprisingly capable. What made this stand out is mainly the storyline: The case they take on starts simple—a missing princess—but quickly becomes more layered, with magic, conspiracies, and a deeper mystery tied to Cinna herself.
I appreciated the worldbuilding: accessible without being too detailed, and the humor made the heavier moments easier to read. I liked the mix of magic, odd villains, and moments of action. It did feel like a few explanations came too quickly at the end, and some parts dragged a bit in the middle. Still, I stayed interested all the way through.
This is a lighter alter-world fantasy— fun, character-driven mystery that sets the stage for more. I’d read the next book in a heartbeat.
March 30, 2025
I want to give it more than 5 stars because they’re WELL DESERVED! First I want to thank the author for providing me with an early copy of this book. All thoughts are my own!
When I read the blurb, I knew this was a book I was going to love and then after reading the first chapter I was 100% sure it was going to be at least 4 stars. It was 5!
The story follows our main characters, Cinna and Hokuren, while they go on a mission to find the missing princess of Velles. Both characters are amazing and I loved them so much, they’re so funny and cute and I couldn’t get enough of them and their interactions. Cinna is my favorite, she is sweet and innocent and she is the funniest!!! I cannot wait to read more of her fun thoughts.
The story was fast paced and I didn’t get bored at all, I couldn’t stop turning the pages once I started reading. It’s addictive and will make you want to keep reading, it’s soooo fun and heartwarming and it’s a gorgeous fantasy that is action packed.
When I read the blurb, I knew this was a book I was going to love and then after reading the first chapter I was 100% sure it was going to be at least 4 stars. It was 5!
The story follows our main characters, Cinna and Hokuren, while they go on a mission to find the missing princess of Velles. Both characters are amazing and I loved them so much, they’re so funny and cute and I couldn’t get enough of them and their interactions. Cinna is my favorite, she is sweet and innocent and she is the funniest!!! I cannot wait to read more of her fun thoughts.
The story was fast paced and I didn’t get bored at all, I couldn’t stop turning the pages once I started reading. It’s addictive and will make you want to keep reading, it’s soooo fun and heartwarming and it’s a gorgeous fantasy that is action packed.
April 29, 2025
A cozy fantasy mystery with heart
I just finished the book called “Cinnamon Soul” that is written by Quinn Lawrence. This fantasy mystery introduces two memorable characters: Hokuren, a sharp and reluctant investigator and Cinnamon, her brave and innocent elven assistant. Together, they work to solve the mystery of a missing princess, uncovering a web of secrets and magic. The story blends humor, action and emotional moments as Hohuren and Cinna’s bond grows into a family relationship. The world building is rich yet easy to understand, with just the right balance of magic and mystery. The pacing keeps you hooked, though some moments could benefit from more emotional depth. Fans of magical crime stories and cozy mysteries will like the witty banter and twists. It’s a heartwarming adventure that captures the spirit of both detective fiction and fantasy. I think readers will enjoy this book.
I just finished the book called “Cinnamon Soul” that is written by Quinn Lawrence. This fantasy mystery introduces two memorable characters: Hokuren, a sharp and reluctant investigator and Cinnamon, her brave and innocent elven assistant. Together, they work to solve the mystery of a missing princess, uncovering a web of secrets and magic. The story blends humor, action and emotional moments as Hohuren and Cinna’s bond grows into a family relationship. The world building is rich yet easy to understand, with just the right balance of magic and mystery. The pacing keeps you hooked, though some moments could benefit from more emotional depth. Fans of magical crime stories and cozy mysteries will like the witty banter and twists. It’s a heartwarming adventure that captures the spirit of both detective fiction and fantasy. I think readers will enjoy this book.
May 14, 2025
Cinnamon Soul is the most delightful fantasy and has it all. It is very fast-paced and gripping right from the chase through the streets at the start of the book. The characters are wonderful: fresh, cleverly imagined, and the reader quickly becomes invested in them. Cinna and her boss Hokuren have an unusual relationship: a human and an elf, a boss and an employee and a deep friendship despite the fact that Cinna avoids physical affection and Hokuren is a hugger. The pair encounter all sorts of difficulties, including toad toxin, snakes and arrow bolts as the least of it as they seek out the baddies and meet some remarkable characters along the way. I loved Senara, goddess of the elves. This is a compelling, wonderfully imagined piece of fun as you are transported to worlds where belief is suspended and you can just indulge. Well done indeed to the author for bringing a bit of fun and lots of suspense into this reader's day!
May 23, 2025
“Cinnamon Soul (Cinna and Hokuren Book 1)” by Quinn Lawrence is a fun mix of mystery, action adventure, and intrigue with a bit of magic. Seeker Hokuren is a private detective who is great at her job, yet financially, she is flailing. Her dedicated and assistant, Cinna uses her exceptional skills to act as body guard for Hokuren. When we meet Cinna, she is bringing in the Master Thief, Barnaby, who had been identified by Hokuren. There next client might be the answer to Hokuren’s money woes: Prince Leopold hires her to find his missing daughter, Nyana, who snuck out of the palace shortly after her beloved cat went missing. The cat was located, but not Nyana. The Prince named a possible suspect who might have kidnapped his daughter, his Captain of the Guard, who is also missing. And Cinna reveals a secret to her boss: she has been hoarding her salary to save up enough to hire Hokuren to find her birth parents, whom she has never known. This is an engaging and well-written story!
July 7, 2025
Cinnamon Soul, a fantasy story that gave me that good natural mystery solving detective vibe, was an interesting read. I will agree that for me it was slow to get into, but I would argue even more that this was a fun one. The world and characters were quite intriguing. Purely fantasy. I loved the relationship between the two main characters, and even a few of the side characters. I loved that this story was different for someone like me who usually go for the more romantic paranormal/supernatural stories. My favorite character ultimately is Cinna. This little fireball elf was fun to read about. I felt like some things were forgotten while reading those.
April 6, 2025
This book feels like watching a cozy fantasy anime! It has vibrant characters, found family, female friendship, and so many other things that just made this book stand out.
Hokuren, a Seeker/private investigator and Cinna, her assistant, are hoping for a job that doesn't involve finding a lost cat, when they receive a request from the Prince to find his daughter. As they start uncovering secrets, this mission explodes into something far bigger than they were anticipating. With magical elements introduced, including a goddess and demon, this story went places I never saw coming!
I absolutely love the dynamic between Cinna and Hokuren, as well as the friendships Hokuren has with numerous side characters. I absolutely can't wait for the next book, and I hope to see more of these unique side characters in there as well!
Hokuren, a Seeker/private investigator and Cinna, her assistant, are hoping for a job that doesn't involve finding a lost cat, when they receive a request from the Prince to find his daughter. As they start uncovering secrets, this mission explodes into something far bigger than they were anticipating. With magical elements introduced, including a goddess and demon, this story went places I never saw coming!
I absolutely love the dynamic between Cinna and Hokuren, as well as the friendships Hokuren has with numerous side characters. I absolutely can't wait for the next book, and I hope to see more of these unique side characters in there as well!
June 2, 2025
An interesting twist to the usual crime thriller book, this story happens in a fantasy world. The setting is well developed with lots of details and it holds together from beginning to end. The main characters, also, stay consistent and are likable with their own mixture of good and bad characteristics. Quinn Lawrence weaves the tale with expertise and drops crumbs of information as we go along until she finally reveals what’s going on. There were a few times when Lawrence switched the character point of view which was a little confusing, but that’s the only thing I found on the negative side. It is well written, full of action, rife with emotional tension, and well-paced. As with most crime thrillers, you feel like it’s going to work out in the end, but there are side plots which provide a few surprises. I loved the fact that these kept me guessing.
May 4, 2025
📚✨ Book Review
Cinnamon Soul by Quinn Lawrence
⭐️ 4/5 | 🕵️ Mystery: 3/5
A spellbinding blend of fantasy and mystery that hooked me from the very first page!
The real magic here? Cinna and Hokuren. These two lady detectives absolutely shine—their chemistry, banter, and bond carried the entire story. If you’ve ever wanted a chaotic-good D&D campaign turned into a cozy yet chaotic fantasy romp, this is it.
While the mystery itself didn’t pack huge twists, the world-building and character dynamics more than made up for it. The vibes were immaculate: warm, witchy, and full of heart.
I devoured this in just over a day, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more adventures with this dynamic duo.
🧂✨ Cozy chaos, queer magic, and detective hijinks? Yes, please.
Cinnamon Soul by Quinn Lawrence
⭐️ 4/5 | 🕵️ Mystery: 3/5
A spellbinding blend of fantasy and mystery that hooked me from the very first page!
The real magic here? Cinna and Hokuren. These two lady detectives absolutely shine—their chemistry, banter, and bond carried the entire story. If you’ve ever wanted a chaotic-good D&D campaign turned into a cozy yet chaotic fantasy romp, this is it.
While the mystery itself didn’t pack huge twists, the world-building and character dynamics more than made up for it. The vibes were immaculate: warm, witchy, and full of heart.
I devoured this in just over a day, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more adventures with this dynamic duo.
🧂✨ Cozy chaos, queer magic, and detective hijinks? Yes, please.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
This is a fun read if you enjoy mysteries and adventure books with some fantasy elements set in a magical world. The main characters are beyond lovable but also so different at the same time it's fun to see how they deal with things. They are also hopelessly devoted to each other without being a proper couple, which is fun.
This books does have some dark themes at times, which is handled well. Look at the warnings if you are concerned but it's not all light and rainbows. People are trying to kill them instead of being found out.
Try out this great romp with some very fun characters. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This books does have some dark themes at times, which is handled well. Look at the warnings if you are concerned but it's not all light and rainbows. People are trying to kill them instead of being found out.
Try out this great romp with some very fun characters. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
April 18, 2025Cinnamon Soul is the story of Hokuren and Cinna who run a detective agency - magic detectives! Their main mission is to find the missing princess, but their personal stories weave in so well with it.
It’s Queer, but there’s no romance. It’s all about found family and strong friendships. Hokuren and Cinna genuinely care deeply for each other.
The story originally came from a DND campaign the author was a part of, and you feel that, it feels like you’re on this adventure with them.
Cinna shows us it’s okay to be yourself even if you don’t fit in with the norms.
Thank you Quinn and Book Influencers for the copy!
It’s Queer, but there’s no romance. It’s all about found family and strong friendships. Hokuren and Cinna genuinely care deeply for each other.
The story originally came from a DND campaign the author was a part of, and you feel that, it feels like you’re on this adventure with them.
Cinna shows us it’s okay to be yourself even if you don’t fit in with the norms.
Thank you Quinn and Book Influencers for the copy!
May 8, 2025
This story was endearing. You have Cinna, a very blunt elf and Hokuren, a detective of sorts on the case of a missing person. Hokuren is a woman of justice and honor. Cinna, is a young elf who has led a hard life. They come together and find family and belonging together. They have a special friendship between them.
At first this book seemed to have a lot of pieces but it was brought together quite nicely. I enjoyed reading this and if you are looking for a book with hidden magic and lost goddesses this might be for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At first this book seemed to have a lot of pieces but it was brought together quite nicely. I enjoyed reading this and if you are looking for a book with hidden magic and lost goddesses this might be for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2025
Following the adventure of Seeker (basically a PI) Hokuren and her assistant Cinna. It is an easy to follow mystery that has one case merging into another.
Hokuren is a former City Watch Officer ( basically a police officer) she left with some wavering feelings about the head officer.
After starting her own business and gaining an assistant, Cinna.
They have solved a couple of cases, but one somehow unravels. Being told to leave it alone, they take on a new case. A case for the Prince.
Finding truth, escaping death, visiting old personal wounds, following corruption. Will the Seeker and Assistant solve the case?
Hokuren is a former City Watch Officer ( basically a police officer) she left with some wavering feelings about the head officer.
After starting her own business and gaining an assistant, Cinna.
They have solved a couple of cases, but one somehow unravels. Being told to leave it alone, they take on a new case. A case for the Prince.
Finding truth, escaping death, visiting old personal wounds, following corruption. Will the Seeker and Assistant solve the case?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2025
If “mystery-solving elf duo with blueberry pie and forbidden magic” sounds like your kind of vibe… then Cinnamon Soul is calling your name! I loved the banter, the fast-paced plot, and the cozy-fantasy-meets-high-stakes-mystery energy. Hokuren and Cinna are now living rent-free in my head—and probably charging me for snacks 😂
Read my full spoiler-free review here: https://savoryourreads.com/2025/05/ci...
Read my full spoiler-free review here: https://savoryourreads.com/2025/05/ci...
May 3, 2025
This really was a lovely book, rich with themes of found family, a charming cast of secondary characters both good and evil and an interesting world, and when Cinna and Hokuren have their next adventure, I'll be right there with them.
This book feels like watching a cozy fantasy anime and I absolutely love those.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book feels like watching a cozy fantasy anime and I absolutely love those.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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