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Duskwalker Beginnings #1
To Trap a Soul
**THIS BOOK SHOULD NOT BE READ BEFORE COMPLETION OF THE DUSKWALKER BRIDES SERIES**
There were rumours about monsters lurking in the forests; creatures that instilled fear.
Lindiwe didn’t believe a word of it. That is, until she is stolen from her home and forced to the edge of a growing crevasse. Not only is she wrong, but the creatures are more terrifying than ever imaginable.
That same day, that same place, her life ends – and a new one begins. One of turmoil, change, and unbridled rage.
Lindiwe learns she can stare into the void, and he often stares back...
A deal is made, a bargain struck, and Weldir obtains a soul to keep. He’s finally found himself a mate.
He knows she doesn’t trust him, doesn’t particularly like him, and she’s disobedient. But they made a vow, one he insists they honour, even if her mesmerising gaze never softens towards him.
Their matebond is shaky, and Weldir doesn’t know how to strengthen it when they’re worlds apart.
There were rumours about monsters lurking in the forests; creatures that instilled fear.
Lindiwe didn’t believe a word of it. That is, until she is stolen from her home and forced to the edge of a growing crevasse. Not only is she wrong, but the creatures are more terrifying than ever imaginable.
That same day, that same place, her life ends – and a new one begins. One of turmoil, change, and unbridled rage.
Lindiwe learns she can stare into the void, and he often stares back...
A deal is made, a bargain struck, and Weldir obtains a soul to keep. He’s finally found himself a mate.
He knows she doesn’t trust him, doesn’t particularly like him, and she’s disobedient. But they made a vow, one he insists they honour, even if her mesmerising gaze never softens towards him.
Their matebond is shaky, and Weldir doesn’t know how to strengthen it when they’re worlds apart.
481 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2025
723 people are currently reading
1766 people want to read
About the author
Opal Reyne
21 books5,796 followersOpal Reyne is an Australian Author who has been a fan of the Adult Paranormal Romance genre from the moment she picked up a book of it - and has never looked back.
She loves everything spicy, smutty,and everything boarder-line monster loving. She started writing because of her love of the written word, and because she wanted to build a diverse world of mythological creatures, while also showing the beauty of all ethnicities of humanity. She thrives to produce a plot driven, character developing book while sprinkling in enchanting imagery.
-Duskwalker Brides a series that features a very real monster who never turns into a handsome prince.
-Witch Bound is a series of Dragon-shifter males falling for their species enemies, Witches!
-She currently has a completed series called 'A Pirate Romance duology'.
As of the 20th of June 2022, The Aedus Chronicles has been unpublished. Thank you to all the readers who enjoyed the series, and Opal may look into revising them in the future.
She loves everything spicy, smutty,and everything boarder-line monster loving. She started writing because of her love of the written word, and because she wanted to build a diverse world of mythological creatures, while also showing the beauty of all ethnicities of humanity. She thrives to produce a plot driven, character developing book while sprinkling in enchanting imagery.
-Duskwalker Brides a series that features a very real monster who never turns into a handsome prince.
-Witch Bound is a series of Dragon-shifter males falling for their species enemies, Witches!
-She currently has a completed series called 'A Pirate Romance duology'.
As of the 20th of June 2022, The Aedus Chronicles has been unpublished. Thank you to all the readers who enjoyed the series, and Opal may look into revising them in the future.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
June 27, 2025
4.25 Stars
I really liked this book! It was different than what I originally thought it would be, after reading the Duskwalker Brides books and being used to the formula there. This definitely put the sloooow in slowburn, but I actually felt like it was pretty realistic to the two main characters and their situation. Hundreds of years of buildup and learning to trust/care for one another fits what we know of them very well.
I did really enjoy some of the small Easter eggs and nods to later events that happen in Duskwalker Brides. Getting to see the origins of the Mavka and see them as babies made my heart so happy. And yes, I 100% cried at the part we all knew was coming involving a certain snakey boy Mavka.
Ultimately, was very happy with this book and was left wanting the next one ASAP! Can’t wait for the epic conclusion to Weldir and Lindiwe’s arc.
I really liked this book! It was different than what I originally thought it would be, after reading the Duskwalker Brides books and being used to the formula there. This definitely put the sloooow in slowburn, but I actually felt like it was pretty realistic to the two main characters and their situation. Hundreds of years of buildup and learning to trust/care for one another fits what we know of them very well.
I did really enjoy some of the small Easter eggs and nods to later events that happen in Duskwalker Brides. Getting to see the origins of the Mavka and see them as babies made my heart so happy. And yes, I 100% cried at the part we all knew was coming involving a certain snakey boy Mavka.
Ultimately, was very happy with this book and was left wanting the next one ASAP! Can’t wait for the epic conclusion to Weldir and Lindiwe’s arc.
June 22, 2025
This book isn’t even out yet and it’s already my entire personality.
arc review
I was not prepared for how deeply this story would hit me.... honestly, I’m still trying to wrap my head around everything. Their journey broke me and and then slowly pieced me back together. It's heavy and intense, but pretty much necessary.
My heart aches for Weldir and Lindi, both have been through so much and yet still managed to face their inner battles the best way they could. I'll never forget these characters, I’ll always hold them close to my heart.
I’m anxiously waiting for the second part, even though it means their story might come to an end :( They truly deserve their happily ever after and I'm so here for it.
arc review
I was not prepared for how deeply this story would hit me.... honestly, I’m still trying to wrap my head around everything. Their journey broke me and and then slowly pieced me back together. It's heavy and intense, but pretty much necessary.
My heart aches for Weldir and Lindi, both have been through so much and yet still managed to face their inner battles the best way they could. I'll never forget these characters, I’ll always hold them close to my heart.
I’m anxiously waiting for the second part, even though it means their story might come to an end :( They truly deserve their happily ever after and I'm so here for it.
June 25, 2025
Where do I begin!?
This book was INCREDIBLE. Being able to get our origin story of Lindiwe and Weldir brought so much together for the Duskwalker Bride series. We learn so much lore and origin stories of not just Weldir and Lindi, but our beloved Duskwalkers as well! And let me tell you, there is SO MUCH that we find out about in this story! This book is a SLOW BURN, which I’m usually not a fan of, but Opal made it work! It was so good and informative but actually held my attention so well. Pure perfection 🥰
This book was INCREDIBLE. Being able to get our origin story of Lindiwe and Weldir brought so much together for the Duskwalker Bride series. We learn so much lore and origin stories of not just Weldir and Lindi, but our beloved Duskwalkers as well! And let me tell you, there is SO MUCH that we find out about in this story! This book is a SLOW BURN, which I’m usually not a fan of, but Opal made it work! It was so good and informative but actually held my attention so well. Pure perfection 🥰
July 15, 2025
You ever have that dream where you’re running so hard and going absolutely nowhere? That’s what reading this book feels like.
Opal is a wonderful writer and I enjoy the duskwalker series, but holy hell this one was LONG and SLOWWWWWWWW. I skipped whole chapters, almost DNFd multiple times, but pushed through. Nothing happens until like 85% in. And even that wasn’t really much.
This could have been a novella.
Opal is a wonderful writer and I enjoy the duskwalker series, but holy hell this one was LONG and SLOWWWWWWWW. I skipped whole chapters, almost DNFd multiple times, but pushed through. Nothing happens until like 85% in. And even that wasn’t really much.
This could have been a novella.
June 17, 2025
Let me just start with the fact this is a lore HEAVY book. Please please heed the warnings to read the main series first.
Honestly, seeing the process Lindiwe and Weldir go through to come together, to learn each other, and to grow as individuals and as a couple is fascinating. I'm sad I am going to have to wait to see what happens in their lives and relationship but getting to see so much of them and their time is amazing.
So many of my questions have been answered and yet so many more are still left.
I wont lie I cried so much in this book. I have been attached to these characters for years, since book 1 came out and reading their stories and now seeing some of the beginnings and knowing what is to come but still crying my eyes out when they happen.
Honestly, seeing the process Lindiwe and Weldir go through to come together, to learn each other, and to grow as individuals and as a couple is fascinating. I'm sad I am going to have to wait to see what happens in their lives and relationship but getting to see so much of them and their time is amazing.
So many of my questions have been answered and yet so many more are still left.
I wont lie I cried so much in this book. I have been attached to these characters for years, since book 1 came out and reading their stories and now seeing some of the beginnings and knowing what is to come but still crying my eyes out when they happen.
July 1, 2025
Painfully boring
Let me start by saying, I love the duskwalker bride series and was so excited for this. I’ve been so curious about Weldir and his and Lindiwe’s relationship from the get. This book wasn’t about their relationship. Or really even duskwalker beginnings. It was about Lindiwe’s journey through her life.
It was so slow and boring. Honestly, I wanted to tap out at least 5 times, but I’ve read the rest of them and couldn’t stand having part of one unfinished. (Honestly I kept thinking it would get better… maybe something exciting would happen… perhaps Lindiwe would quit being so unlikable… but nope. Pretty consistent the whole way through.)
The parts with Nathair were good (then sad… then good). And it was cute when the mavka were babies, but those were just blips.
(And if you’re reading this to figure out a *ahem* certain aspect of their relationship works, go ahead and skip to like 80%. You won’t miss anything from their relationship before then.)
Let me start by saying, I love the duskwalker bride series and was so excited for this. I’ve been so curious about Weldir and his and Lindiwe’s relationship from the get. This book wasn’t about their relationship. Or really even duskwalker beginnings. It was about Lindiwe’s journey through her life.
It was so slow and boring. Honestly, I wanted to tap out at least 5 times, but I’ve read the rest of them and couldn’t stand having part of one unfinished. (Honestly I kept thinking it would get better… maybe something exciting would happen… perhaps Lindiwe would quit being so unlikable… but nope. Pretty consistent the whole way through.)
The parts with Nathair were good (then sad… then good). And it was cute when the mavka were babies, but those were just blips.
(And if you’re reading this to figure out a *ahem* certain aspect of their relationship works, go ahead and skip to like 80%. You won’t miss anything from their relationship before then.)
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August 19, 2025Not gonna give this one a rating because I can't be impartial.
I love Opal Reyne's writing and style but I feel that it lacks one thing: brevity. Each of her books are wonderful but there's just too much of everything and this was the case all over again.
Furthermore, I didn't feel any connection between Weldir and Lindi. The miscommunication was over the top and rather frustrating
I love Opal Reyne's writing and style but I feel that it lacks one thing: brevity. Each of her books are wonderful but there's just too much of everything and this was the case all over again.
Furthermore, I didn't feel any connection between Weldir and Lindi. The miscommunication was over the top and rather frustrating
July 1, 2025
This could’ve been a novella. Half of the book didn’t need to be there. I enjoyed getting to know their story but felt too much filler was included. Lindiway was insufferable.
July 1, 2025
I feel like I was just lore edged for eight books only to be given a long awaited loregasm. I loved looking for little hits and things to places, things, or people I may have known from the previous books. Trying to guess which Mavka she was pregnant with at the time was fun. Lindiwe's beginning was so sad and it made me think so much of Delora being thrown into the vail. Nathair's death from Lindiwe and Weldirs perspective was heart wrenching.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2025
A mysterious world awaits deep inside the Veil! If you loved the Duskwalker Brides Series and have wondered to yourself "how did this all begin?" - You're in for the story of a lifetime.
Note: Please ensure you have read all 8 books before diving into this one!
I had the honor of reading this incredible story and Lindiwe is everything I thought she would be. Vibrant, Determined, Full of so much life that lasts generations (literally). This is her story, and Weldirs story as we learn how they came to be.
Their union is far from perfect, and comes stacked to the brim with challenges. Setbacks become milestones and time becomes a distant memory. Lindiwe watches a life she thought she knew come and go several times over. This is a woman who builds herself up after being knocked down repeatedly.
Weldir reveals to us a new side of himself, testing the "All Knowing" Shadow Daddy pedestal we believed him to be on. We see new sides of him too, phases that reveal the many ways he tries to make this bond between them work. It's beautifully imperfect, and teaches us just how much they had to learn about each other before the Duskwakers came along.
This is absolutely worth the read for fans of the DWB Series!
Note: Please ensure you have read all 8 books before diving into this one!
I had the honor of reading this incredible story and Lindiwe is everything I thought she would be. Vibrant, Determined, Full of so much life that lasts generations (literally). This is her story, and Weldirs story as we learn how they came to be.
Their union is far from perfect, and comes stacked to the brim with challenges. Setbacks become milestones and time becomes a distant memory. Lindiwe watches a life she thought she knew come and go several times over. This is a woman who builds herself up after being knocked down repeatedly.
Weldir reveals to us a new side of himself, testing the "All Knowing" Shadow Daddy pedestal we believed him to be on. We see new sides of him too, phases that reveal the many ways he tries to make this bond between them work. It's beautifully imperfect, and teaches us just how much they had to learn about each other before the Duskwakers came along.
This is absolutely worth the read for fans of the DWB Series!
September 13, 2025
For these to be “smut books” (I say affectionately), the world building is honestly the best part about them. This prequel book itself is just a huge example of that, going back 300 years before the main series but finally revealing and better tying together the backstories that we had gotten little crumbs and snacks size bites of in previous books.
This is a slow burn and a half as well, covering literally 100 years and the characters are just now being to communicate regularly but it still kept me hooked from page one. I’m actually obsessed with how well Opal writes this demi-god character that feels properly detached and inhuman like, to the point he’s not even actually in the main human realm.
Im glad I waited until closer to the next book to be released (I also have a TBR and a half as well) but only because Im chomping at the bits for it.
This is a slow burn and a half as well, covering literally 100 years and the characters are just now being to communicate regularly but it still kept me hooked from page one. I’m actually obsessed with how well Opal writes this demi-god character that feels properly detached and inhuman like, to the point he’s not even actually in the main human realm.
Im glad I waited until closer to the next book to be released (I also have a TBR and a half as well) but only because Im chomping at the bits for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
Knowing the events from the previous books but reading it from a different POV was emotional. The book was a different vibe but worth the read! I love Opal's writing! She writes complex characters with layers of characteristics. This book explored death and how there is danger but beauty in it. The life and death cycle we view in the book had me emotional throughout! How the main character interact with each other had me in AGONEY!!!!! THE SLOW BURN! I AM SHAKEN! I NEED MORE OPAL! I hope the next book explore and developed more of their relationship!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2025
I low-key wish this would have been more than one book, in some ways I think it needed to be. There was so much information and backstory that it almost felt like too much, but also, not enough? I still feel like we are just scratching the surface of the lore and history, but I also found I had to drag myself through some parts of this book.
Maybe I just greedily want another long series like the original.
That being said, the slow burn is sloooooow and at times super frustrating, because YOU know what the issues and miscommunications are, and the need to just grab Weldir (if you could) and Lindiwe by the shoulders and shake them while yelling "Listen with your ears!" is strong.
Maybe I just greedily want another long series like the original.
That being said, the slow burn is sloooooow and at times super frustrating, because YOU know what the issues and miscommunications are, and the need to just grab Weldir (if you could) and Lindiwe by the shoulders and shake them while yelling "Listen with your ears!" is strong.
July 4, 2025
Opal said this was a slow burn and dear god was it slow. It was also so much more depressing especially reading about nathair and his passing
I will say I struggled a little bit with all the time jumps
I wasn’t expecting duskwalkers on other continents but I guess that makes sense
I loved reading about weldir and lindiwe and all the baby duskwalkers
It ended kind of abruptly? But I’m so excited to finish their story
I will say I struggled a little bit with all the time jumps
I wasn’t expecting duskwalkers on other continents but I guess that makes sense
I loved reading about weldir and lindiwe and all the baby duskwalkers
It ended kind of abruptly? But I’m so excited to finish their story
November 6, 2025
I loved being able to finally know more about Lindi and Weldir. The character development is amazing, as always. Seeing how the world evolved was cool too. It did drag a bit for me, but i understand the need for it. Diving right into the next one!
July 16, 2025
I’ve enjoyed most of the books of this series. The warning about this book is to not expect it to be like the others because it’s not. It’s a prequel that lets the readers get to know the history and lore of the duskwalker world.
Knowing this, I knew I may not be super into it. Not just because of the super sow burn but just because so much information in such a long book. And it wasn’t really for me. I just had such a hard time getting into it and connecting with the characters. They have to be written a certain way with characters that I can feel for and I just didn’t care. That’s not on the author necessarily but I just couldn’t connect.
Knowing this, I knew I may not be super into it. Not just because of the super sow burn but just because so much information in such a long book. And it wasn’t really for me. I just had such a hard time getting into it and connecting with the characters. They have to be written a certain way with characters that I can feel for and I just didn’t care. That’s not on the author necessarily but I just couldn’t connect.
July 8, 2025
MC was really selfish with her thoughts to the point where it pulled me out of the story. I’m shocked this book was written by this author. Opal’s other books were really well written, however, this story had a different writing style that fell flat.
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September 7, 2025This story went absolutely nowhere. I was painfully bored towards the middle, I skipped ten chapters AND WE WERE STILL IN THE SAME PLACE PLOT-WISE
June 29, 2025
Roller coaster of emotions
I have always looked forward to reading all Opal's books, and fortunately, I started this series when with A Soul to Keep just released. Finally, getting Lindiwe and Weldir side of the story is putting everything together.
There are so many questions I had from 'How did these two meet?', to 'How do they communicate?', and 'How are they as a couple?'. These questions were answered and also among many other questions I didn't know I had.
From reading the previous books, I sometimes thought Lindiwe came off as a bit cold? I don't think cold is the right word, but I can't think of anything else right now. You could clearly see she cared for her children, but some of her decisions sometimes hurt them. Or her timing was always delayed whenever they needed aid.
Now I see why. Lindiwe is one person who is being pulled in multiple directions. She not only represents herself but also Weldir (sometimes) when she's on earth. She is fierce, strong, and has overcome so many difficult situations. ALL BY HERSELF.
There was no one to aid her along her journey (besides the power Weldir provided). No one came before her and had experience of what may happen when she bonded with a Demi-God. So practically everything she has endured was all new to her. Because of that, it definitely made me perceive her in a new way. She wasn't just a mother but a warrior who had gone through it all.
Weldir, he's interesting. He lacks feelings, which in turn don't particularly help Lindiwe at times. It's not his fault. He grew up alone with only memories to shape who he is as a person. Basically, there is no communication to anyone but his mind. He didn't even know he had a voice because he would never speak to anyone.
To Weldir, Lindiwe is the companion he had always hoped for even when their companionship was not always in the best of terms. Weldir didn't understand human emotions and found it troublesome to truly comprehend Lindiwe's way of thinking. The miscommunication between these two characters plays out throughout this whole book, and it's a huge part.
Even though I'm usually not a fan of miscommunication, Opal did a fantastic job for me as a reader to understand where each of these characters was going through at the moment.
Getting to reread many of the emotional scenes from previous books in this series was heartbreaking. And yes, I cried. The journey these two characters have led me on was intense, yet I enjoyed every minute of it.
If you're thinking of starting this interconnected world, just be prepared for a large page number for each book. That is one constant thing about Opal her books are thick, and I don't mind it because by the end, I think to myself,'Where has it all gone?' and 'I need so much more!'
Overall, it was another great book, and I look forward to reading the next installment in this duet. I'm waiting for another heartbreaking moment that will lead to and very grea HEA that this author has always provided. So until then, I'll just be patient because this cliffhanger was a fantastic stopping point, in my opinion.
This book definitely has to be read after reading all of the Duskwalker Brides series because this duet will contain major spoilers.
I have always looked forward to reading all Opal's books, and fortunately, I started this series when with A Soul to Keep just released. Finally, getting Lindiwe and Weldir side of the story is putting everything together.
There are so many questions I had from 'How did these two meet?', to 'How do they communicate?', and 'How are they as a couple?'. These questions were answered and also among many other questions I didn't know I had.
From reading the previous books, I sometimes thought Lindiwe came off as a bit cold? I don't think cold is the right word, but I can't think of anything else right now. You could clearly see she cared for her children, but some of her decisions sometimes hurt them. Or her timing was always delayed whenever they needed aid.
Now I see why. Lindiwe is one person who is being pulled in multiple directions. She not only represents herself but also Weldir (sometimes) when she's on earth. She is fierce, strong, and has overcome so many difficult situations. ALL BY HERSELF.
There was no one to aid her along her journey (besides the power Weldir provided). No one came before her and had experience of what may happen when she bonded with a Demi-God. So practically everything she has endured was all new to her. Because of that, it definitely made me perceive her in a new way. She wasn't just a mother but a warrior who had gone through it all.
Weldir, he's interesting. He lacks feelings, which in turn don't particularly help Lindiwe at times. It's not his fault. He grew up alone with only memories to shape who he is as a person. Basically, there is no communication to anyone but his mind. He didn't even know he had a voice because he would never speak to anyone.
To Weldir, Lindiwe is the companion he had always hoped for even when their companionship was not always in the best of terms. Weldir didn't understand human emotions and found it troublesome to truly comprehend Lindiwe's way of thinking. The miscommunication between these two characters plays out throughout this whole book, and it's a huge part.
Even though I'm usually not a fan of miscommunication, Opal did a fantastic job for me as a reader to understand where each of these characters was going through at the moment.
Getting to reread many of the emotional scenes from previous books in this series was heartbreaking. And yes, I cried. The journey these two characters have led me on was intense, yet I enjoyed every minute of it.
If you're thinking of starting this interconnected world, just be prepared for a large page number for each book. That is one constant thing about Opal her books are thick, and I don't mind it because by the end, I think to myself,'Where has it all gone?' and 'I need so much more!'
Overall, it was another great book, and I look forward to reading the next installment in this duet. I'm waiting for another heartbreaking moment that will lead to and very grea HEA that this author has always provided. So until then, I'll just be patient because this cliffhanger was a fantastic stopping point, in my opinion.
This book definitely has to be read after reading all of the Duskwalker Brides series because this duet will contain major spoilers.
June 27, 2025
Can I just say that Opal Reyne has absolutely done it again with To Trap a Soul? This prequel to her beloved Duskwalker Bride series is one of those stories I didn't even realize how much I was missing. All throughout the series, I've found myself wondering about Lindiwe's past – like, seriously, how did she meet Weldir? And why did it always seem like she was fighting so many battles alone? Well, this book finally pulls back the curtain, and let me tell you, it's a truly rewarding experience.
This isn't just any prequel; it's practically the "How I Met Your Mother" of the Duskwalker world! Maybe not as many jokes but...you get my point. It's a fantastic slow-burn revelation that neatly fills in all those crucial gaps. Speaking of that slow burn, it's not just about romance; it's about watching two incredibly complex individuals slowly, painstakingly, navigate their truly unique bond. That gradual understanding makes their eventual connection all the more impactful. Seriously, if you're a fan of the series, you absolutely, 100% must read this after you've read the rest of the books. The way Opal has woven in hidden nuggets, and little callbacks throughout the entire series become so incredibly apparent here, giving you a richer, more satisfying re-contextualization of everything you thought you knew. It's like finding treasure you didn't even know existed!
My heart ached for Lindiwe as I read. She goes through so much, and her strength and dedication to her babies are just so incredibly inspiring. Honestly, I just wanted to reach through the pages and give her a giant hug! Lindiwe is hands down one of my favorite characters in this series now. Her quiet, persistent strength is something I think every mother can understand and deeply connect with. And poor Weldir, bless his heart, is just completely clueless about how relationships actually work, inadvertently leaving Lindiwe to bear the brunt of that unawareness. They both have their faults, for sure, but at their core, they're two beings just trying their best to uphold an agreement... and hopefully find something more profound in the process. Watching the evolution of Lindiwe and Weldir – their developing strengths, their growing understanding, and their blossoming care for each other – took me on an absolute emotional roller-coaster. It's a journey packed with frustration, hope, incredibly tender moments, and powerful revelations, keeping you deeply invested in their path and cheering for them every single step of the way.
This was a solid 5 ⭐️ read for me. It's a deeply satisfying dive into the past of characters I've truly come to love. If you've been captivated by the Duskwaker Bride series, To Trap a Soul isn't just an addition, it's an absolutely essential piece that will only deepen your appreciation for the entire saga.
This isn't just any prequel; it's practically the "How I Met Your Mother" of the Duskwalker world! Maybe not as many jokes but...you get my point. It's a fantastic slow-burn revelation that neatly fills in all those crucial gaps. Speaking of that slow burn, it's not just about romance; it's about watching two incredibly complex individuals slowly, painstakingly, navigate their truly unique bond. That gradual understanding makes their eventual connection all the more impactful. Seriously, if you're a fan of the series, you absolutely, 100% must read this after you've read the rest of the books. The way Opal has woven in hidden nuggets, and little callbacks throughout the entire series become so incredibly apparent here, giving you a richer, more satisfying re-contextualization of everything you thought you knew. It's like finding treasure you didn't even know existed!
My heart ached for Lindiwe as I read. She goes through so much, and her strength and dedication to her babies are just so incredibly inspiring. Honestly, I just wanted to reach through the pages and give her a giant hug! Lindiwe is hands down one of my favorite characters in this series now. Her quiet, persistent strength is something I think every mother can understand and deeply connect with. And poor Weldir, bless his heart, is just completely clueless about how relationships actually work, inadvertently leaving Lindiwe to bear the brunt of that unawareness. They both have their faults, for sure, but at their core, they're two beings just trying their best to uphold an agreement... and hopefully find something more profound in the process. Watching the evolution of Lindiwe and Weldir – their developing strengths, their growing understanding, and their blossoming care for each other – took me on an absolute emotional roller-coaster. It's a journey packed with frustration, hope, incredibly tender moments, and powerful revelations, keeping you deeply invested in their path and cheering for them every single step of the way.
This was a solid 5 ⭐️ read for me. It's a deeply satisfying dive into the past of characters I've truly come to love. If you've been captivated by the Duskwaker Bride series, To Trap a Soul isn't just an addition, it's an absolutely essential piece that will only deepen your appreciation for the entire saga.
October 9, 2025
To Trap a Soul - Opal Reyne
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice : 🌶️🌶️
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
****WARNING THERE MAY BE SLIGHT SPOILERS BELOW ****
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
Review:
I loved this so much. If you are a fan of the Duskwalker Brides series, this is all about their beginnings and is the story of their parents - Weldir and Lindiwe. This book is for all the people who had questions about the history of the Spirit of the Void and the Witch Owl, their relationship, and of course about the creation and evolution of the Duskwalkers themselves. I loved how much lore we get, not just about Weldir and Lindiwe, but also about the Duskwalkers, the Elven realm, the Anzuli, and Jabez. This is a slow burn and when I say that I say it with my entire chest. Do not go into this thinking they are going to get together by the middle of the book or even the end, it’s a duet after all. We have a lot of years to cover, there is a lot that happens between Weldir and Lindiwe that they both have overcome and communicate and it takes time because they are quite literally worlds apart. I was so curious about them in the main series and I loved getting to see a peek inside their heads. Lindiwe is a badass, but she’s also super vulnerable and strong willed and determined. Weldir comes off so unfeeling and unemotional, but he has depths to himself that he doesn’t understand and a lot of that goes back to the circumstances of his existence and upbringing or lack thereof. I don’t want to go into depth, but I’ll just say that there were parts of this that I knew was coming because of the main series and I was still not prepared. I cannot wait to continue with book two. If you have not read the Duskwalker Brides series that must be read before this! I highly recommend it.
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
I’ll be back but 4.5
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice : 🌶️🌶️
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
****WARNING THERE MAY BE SLIGHT SPOILERS BELOW ****
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
Review:
I loved this so much. If you are a fan of the Duskwalker Brides series, this is all about their beginnings and is the story of their parents - Weldir and Lindiwe. This book is for all the people who had questions about the history of the Spirit of the Void and the Witch Owl, their relationship, and of course about the creation and evolution of the Duskwalkers themselves. I loved how much lore we get, not just about Weldir and Lindiwe, but also about the Duskwalkers, the Elven realm, the Anzuli, and Jabez. This is a slow burn and when I say that I say it with my entire chest. Do not go into this thinking they are going to get together by the middle of the book or even the end, it’s a duet after all. We have a lot of years to cover, there is a lot that happens between Weldir and Lindiwe that they both have overcome and communicate and it takes time because they are quite literally worlds apart. I was so curious about them in the main series and I loved getting to see a peek inside their heads. Lindiwe is a badass, but she’s also super vulnerable and strong willed and determined. Weldir comes off so unfeeling and unemotional, but he has depths to himself that he doesn’t understand and a lot of that goes back to the circumstances of his existence and upbringing or lack thereof. I don’t want to go into depth, but I’ll just say that there were parts of this that I knew was coming because of the main series and I was still not prepared. I cannot wait to continue with book two. If you have not read the Duskwalker Brides series that must be read before this! I highly recommend it.
🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤🤍🖤
I’ll be back but 4.5
July 21, 2025
AT LAST, the story of Lindwe and Weldir! I’ve been waiting for this since book one 🥹
Everything in this book is lore. And it’s SO GOOD and needed. Lindwe’s actions in the previous books make so much more sense now. I knew their relationship was strained, but I never did grasp the magnitude of the why. Not only her interactions with Weldir and everything after, but how she was raised with such loving and accepting parents. It’s all so important to who Lindwe is as a person.
I love the little sneak peek of Lindwe with the owl in the tree! I found it so cool and alluring that she started with the Raven as we didn’t know that until now. It’s fitting, her change from the Raven to the Owl. It’s not only physical for her, but her mental change. She has grown so much. Lived through so much and evolved as a woman.
I will beg Opal on my KNEES for books about the Duskwalkers on the other continents. I thought they were only in Australis. But AN OTTER SKULL - HELLO !!!
Overall, this book is beautifully written and much needed for the overall plot of these characters’ stories and the world Opal built overall. I couldn’t be happier with this! I’m so excited to get the rest of their story from their POV.
Thank you to Opal and her team for allowing me an ARC copy! I’m sorry life came at me hard and this review is so late.
Everything in this book is lore. And it’s SO GOOD and needed. Lindwe’s actions in the previous books make so much more sense now. I knew their relationship was strained, but I never did grasp the magnitude of the why. Not only her interactions with Weldir and everything after, but how she was raised with such loving and accepting parents. It’s all so important to who Lindwe is as a person.
I love the little sneak peek of Lindwe with the owl in the tree! I found it so cool and alluring that she started with the Raven as we didn’t know that until now. It’s fitting, her change from the Raven to the Owl. It’s not only physical for her, but her mental change. She has grown so much. Lived through so much and evolved as a woman.
I will beg Opal on my KNEES for books about the Duskwalkers on the other continents. I thought they were only in Australis. But AN OTTER SKULL - HELLO !!!
Overall, this book is beautifully written and much needed for the overall plot of these characters’ stories and the world Opal built overall. I couldn’t be happier with this! I’m so excited to get the rest of their story from their POV.
Thank you to Opal and her team for allowing me an ARC copy! I’m sorry life came at me hard and this review is so late.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
"Weldir wanted to feel as though he existed." 😭😭
I straight up owe Opal my firstborn at this point.
im so invested. I wish this was more than two books
I've been so interested in their story since the first duskwalkers book and the ANGST
being in a forever partnership with a god who can't really touch or exist in the same space as you is peak.
I will say the first half I was a little bored with the "im pissed at him. never mind, he's fine, I guess. im pissed again. never mind..." was a but irritating, but Opal Reyne is literally developing a like 300 year old COMPLICATED relationship, and I know this took some sweat and tears. I loved the setups for things in the duskwalker bride series and also 🥺 her giving baby faunus ram horns my heart. idc what the other books made me think, Lindiwe is trying her best, and I love her.
Also the sleep token references 💀
Lowkey the mention of a "low taper fade" mad this lose a star because I fucking hated that lmao.
Me loving a book with like 2 smut scenes??? unheard of.
"I can’t if you look down like that. Nor do I understand why seeing you watch us makes me want to be feral with you.”
Love love loved that omg. Weldir slowly gaining affection and appreciation for Lindiwe.
ugh. need this injected into my veins.
I straight up owe Opal my firstborn at this point.
im so invested. I wish this was more than two books
I've been so interested in their story since the first duskwalkers book and the ANGST
being in a forever partnership with a god who can't really touch or exist in the same space as you is peak.
I will say the first half I was a little bored with the "im pissed at him. never mind, he's fine, I guess. im pissed again. never mind..." was a but irritating, but Opal Reyne is literally developing a like 300 year old COMPLICATED relationship, and I know this took some sweat and tears. I loved the setups for things in the duskwalker bride series and also 🥺 her giving baby faunus ram horns my heart. idc what the other books made me think, Lindiwe is trying her best, and I love her.
Also the sleep token references 💀
Lowkey the mention of a "low taper fade" mad this lose a star because I fucking hated that lmao.
Me loving a book with like 2 smut scenes??? unheard of.
"I can’t if you look down like that. Nor do I understand why seeing you watch us makes me want to be feral with you.”
Love love loved that omg. Weldir slowly gaining affection and appreciation for Lindiwe.
ugh. need this injected into my veins.
June 22, 2025
Anyone who’s been a fan of this series will have had at least one or two (or a dozen) questions about Lindiwe and Weldir. This book answers those questions, adds a few, and then answers those as well!
I wasn’t sure what I went in expecting for their relationship, but it was really interesting to see it evolve (and unevolve) across the book. Which is what I really enjoyed about it. We get to see Lindi go from an innocent left with a less than desirable choice forward to a woman who has been hardened by the events of her long, long life. Which is pretty darn relatable. We already knew poor Lindiwe has been through it, but damn, life did her dirty for a while there.
I also adore the development we see in Weldir. We get to watch him grow, much like we do all our Duskwalker boys. Like father, like son, I suppose? 😂
This one is definitely a SLOW BURN. This is a lore book, first and foremost. We get SO MUCH info! If you love this series for the lore, well, be ready to get a LOT of it. We start before the Duskwalker boys even exist and watch The Veil (and the world!) develop over the years. But it doesn’t ever feel jarring or confusing along the way.
Don’t worry though! We get quite a bit of exciting new surprises along with the lore! And the spice we do get is -chefs kiss-! Opal never disappoints, honestly.
I’m so excited for the second half of this prequel series, honestly.
Definitely recommended for fans of the series, but this is absolutely a ‘read after the series’ kind of book. Everything would be very jarring if you read it first. And very confusing.
I wasn’t sure what I went in expecting for their relationship, but it was really interesting to see it evolve (and unevolve) across the book. Which is what I really enjoyed about it. We get to see Lindi go from an innocent left with a less than desirable choice forward to a woman who has been hardened by the events of her long, long life. Which is pretty darn relatable. We already knew poor Lindiwe has been through it, but damn, life did her dirty for a while there.
I also adore the development we see in Weldir. We get to watch him grow, much like we do all our Duskwalker boys. Like father, like son, I suppose? 😂
This one is definitely a SLOW BURN. This is a lore book, first and foremost. We get SO MUCH info! If you love this series for the lore, well, be ready to get a LOT of it. We start before the Duskwalker boys even exist and watch The Veil (and the world!) develop over the years. But it doesn’t ever feel jarring or confusing along the way.
Don’t worry though! We get quite a bit of exciting new surprises along with the lore! And the spice we do get is -chefs kiss-! Opal never disappoints, honestly.
I’m so excited for the second half of this prequel series, honestly.
Definitely recommended for fans of the series, but this is absolutely a ‘read after the series’ kind of book. Everything would be very jarring if you read it first. And very confusing.
September 26, 2025
Usually I am not a slow burn girlie. Especially when the couple is as distant and complex as this one. If I didn’t already have a connection to these characters it may not have been something I enjoyed. Which is what makes the choice to write this book now, after the completion of the main series brilliant.
The reason I read romance is because I vaguely know how they will all end. It takes out the sense of anxiety and allows me to relax and enjoy the read. This book is an excellent example of that. I know how it ends. I know what the world turns into I know their relationship may not be normal but it endures.
So now I get to sit back and enjoy the ride. I get to trust that in the emotionally tense moments and the ones filled with grief or frustration, it will all work out. I am so glad I waited to read this so I don’t have to wait too long to read the next one.
It is a wonderful book filled with complex dynamics and all the world building I love.
The reason I read romance is because I vaguely know how they will all end. It takes out the sense of anxiety and allows me to relax and enjoy the read. This book is an excellent example of that. I know how it ends. I know what the world turns into I know their relationship may not be normal but it endures.
So now I get to sit back and enjoy the ride. I get to trust that in the emotionally tense moments and the ones filled with grief or frustration, it will all work out. I am so glad I waited to read this so I don’t have to wait too long to read the next one.
It is a wonderful book filled with complex dynamics and all the world building I love.
November 19, 2025
me spiraling between crying and laughing throughout the book while I recommend it to every person Ik is enough of a marker of how good this book was. Reyne really has became my new fav would read anything from author. masterful work as always, love Lindiwe's character, Weldir is my shadow baby and I will protect him from everything and I don't trust (would kill a woman and then marry her daughter) Jabez at all. loved the development of the backstory surrounding the elves and the duskwalkers and the deities even the anzulis. the slowburn was sooo slow and the burn so exquisite. i just wish there ws more about Weldir's backstory like the prism world. maybe I should go read Nathair's book now I just know I'm gonna cry as I hold my favourite baby too. oh and orpheus my cuddly blue eyed babyboy the way he's my second favourite baby so cute and cuddly with his mama. the post partum depression was so real I just wanted to cry my girl Lindi really was put through hell. can I say I want Jabez to suffer so much he cries blood tears? anyways I hate him.
July 1, 2025
Thank you so much to Opal for including me as a permanent member of her arc team!
I knew this book was coming, but I couldn't have imagined how much I would love it! We see the history of Lindiwe, her origin into becoming Weldir's mate, and the downfall of society as the demons take over. We not only learn about Lindiwe and Weldir's relationship, but other relationships and characters within the world. The slow burn was killer, but Opal delivers by the end. I am so very excited for the next one!
I knew this book was coming, but I couldn't have imagined how much I would love it! We see the history of Lindiwe, her origin into becoming Weldir's mate, and the downfall of society as the demons take over. We not only learn about Lindiwe and Weldir's relationship, but other relationships and characters within the world. The slow burn was killer, but Opal delivers by the end. I am so very excited for the next one!
June 23, 2025
This books gives so much into the lore that we all were craving. Lindiwe and Weldir obviously have so many misunderstandings in this book because they are so different. The characters both develop so much during the span of the years they are together and that is so rewarding. I cannot wait for the next installment, as their relationship progresses but we also get to see all our favorite duskwalkers again 💕
July 6, 2025
I've been looking forward to reading this book for a long time ( to find out its done in two parts is amazing , i loved that Lindiwe and Welders story wasn't rushed ) it was amazing to find out that
July 3, 2025
A perfect prequel to show the start of the most mysterious couple throughout the series. The first 8 books before this had set this book up perfectly and to see all the Duskwalkers evolve was like looking at a picture album of someone you love. I’m so excited to continue this duology of prequels and to still have more time with my comfort series.
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