Embracing Light (Binary Souls Duology, #2): A seductive romantasy sequel of redemption, betrayal, and forbidden love.

by Cat Sirota

Dark Fantasy Romance Readers: Discover the Seductive Conclusion of the Binary Souls Duology

Estrid and Zain have everything to fight for—and even more to lose.

Sworn to vengeance.

Claimed by her mate.

Entwined in love—and secrets.

Darkness deepens in Embracing Light, the gripping conclusion to the Binary Souls duology by Cat Sirota.

As savior of the human world and fated mate to Zain, King of the Summer Court, Estrid tries to adjust to her new reality as a Fae royal in the mysterious world of Faery. But as her new powers grow dangerously volatile and her mother's killer remains at large, doubts begin to take root. How can she break from the past and embrace her new life when she's plagued by fury, and haunted by secrets?

Tensions rise when a startling revelation forces Estrid to question everything she knows—even the electric, soul-deep bond she shares with Zain. Meanwhile, in the dark corners of Faery, a deadly force begins to stir. One that threatens not just the heir of winter and shadow, but the fragile hope of a Fae world free from tyranny.

In this explosive sequel, Estrid must face her greatest trial yet and decide what she's willing to sacrifice to fulfill her destiny.

Embracing Light is the breathtaking sequel to Forgiving Darkness—a dark fantasy romance duology where witch & fae romance, fated mates fantasy, and found family collide in an unforgettable finale.

Perfect for fans of:

Court Politics
Fated Mates
Found Family
Redemption Arcs
Betrayal & Forgiveness
Witch & Fae Magic

Because every romantasy reader craves a finale filled with danger, passion, and redemption—embrace the light today.

Genres: Romantasy, Romance, Fantasy, Spicy

396 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 7, 2025

About the author

Cat Sirota moved to Middle Earth (known informally as New Zealand) at the age of 12. The moody, romantic landscape inspired her passion for fantasy novels and would go on to shape her own fiction writing, setting the scene for lush worldbuilding, dark characters, and satisfying plot twists.

Every morning, at 5am, long before her rambunctious household has risen, Cat pours a cup of coffee and gets to work. When she isn’t writing and editing, she’s lost in the stories of authors like LJ Andrews, Penn Cole, and Jennifer L. Armentrout. For Cat, only one thing trumps the magical alchemy of reading, and that is crafting new portals of escapism in her own stories.

Reviews

[Arc review booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5✨ This was such an epic book!! 😍 loved it, so much was going on in a good way. The world building was amazing and the magic system was well written.
Our Fmc Estrid is a strong, independent, intelligent and stubborn women who just wants to know more after her mothers court and to get revenge on who killed her. She’s deals with a lot of loss and grief which makes her more determine and a bit reckless at times.
Our Mmc Zain is caring, over protective and sometimes a bit temperamental especially when it’s come to Estrid he’s wants what’s best for everyone. I enjoyed how he doesn’t step into Estrid way when she’s wants to do something for herself.
I love reading about Estrid and Zain relationships they just are so perfect for each other which is why they are soul mates. They are at ease together they balance each other out, Zain is very protective of Estrid but not so over protective that it becomes controlling.

My favourite quote
“ You can give them what they want and more, my love. What I saw today is something I haven’t seen in any fae court. You gave them hope. You gave them something that no one else can give them: unity. You’re also not alone in this. I’m here for you. I meant what I said today: you have my crown. But you also have my heart, Estrid. I love you.”

Zain younger brother Alvey is one of my favourite side characters 😍 he’s funny, charming and just knows what to say to wind Zain up 😂
Del is Zain and Alvey cousin she’s very set in her ways can come across as snarky but she’s not the same old Del we remember from the first book she’s seems a bit lighter.

Can’t believe how it ending definitely need the next book asap!! 🙈

Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing for the arc 🥰

[Lorna Hadley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Embracing Light by Cat Sorita is book 2 and the final in this duology (but not the end of the story). I have been waiting for this book to be released, and I wasn’t disappointed.
We continue to follow our badass FMC Estrid and her mate Zain.
In this book there is a prophecy about light and dark coming together to rule over all.
But there are many other things that seer’s have foretold along the way that will either support or disprove this prophecy.
I love the side characters just as much as the main ones.
Noor and Rafe are my faves.

Includes tropes:
3 x 🌶️
Fated mates
Elemental magic
Fae
Gods
Humans
Court politics
Found family

[Unleishd_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m emotionally ruined and loving it!!!

Embracing Light is the kind of romantasy sequel that grabs you by the throat with betrayal, redemption, and forbidden love, then whispers “you wanted this.”

Estrid and Zain’s tension? Unhinged perfection. The fae drama, the betrayals, the magic…it’s all so much and I devoured every page. Cat Sirota really said “let’s emotionally obliterate the readers” and I said “thank you.”

[Larissa Jopson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I originally fell in love with Cat Sirota's writing in Forgiving Darkness due to the beauty of her writing. She has a talent for world building that makes you feel apart of her story. I was a little thrown off in this book because it was less world building and more plot focused, which I found out very fast, was not a bad thing. The plot had me glued to my seat in anticipation of who the killer and betrayer was. I thought it was going to be predictable, and I thought I knew who it was early on. I WAS WRONG! Some parts felt anticlimactic, but it made up for it in other places. The characters in this story are amazing - Rafe in particular- but I have a love for Del and Faris and I can't wait to read their story. The last couple of chapters had me gasping and wanting to throw my Kindle. I NEED the next book so I can find out what happens!!

If you haven't already read this series, you won't be disappointed. I'm so glad that Cat is the first Kiwi author I read, and any that come after her will have high expectations to live up to.

[Erin Hyde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the first book.... and Cat has smashed it again with the second book!!!!

"You sure you want to go through with this, Estrid? it's not too late to go for someone better looking" ~ Faris

WORTH THE READ ❤️❤️❤️

[Lee-Ann Hiscox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Embracing Light (Binary Souls Duology Finale)

Emotional and character-driven. This finale shines by expanding on the Faery world and delivering amazing relationship development. The side characters are brilliant, and the high-cost sacrifices drive the plot.

Best of all? That final page will genuinely make you audibly shout "WHAT?!" An unforgettable conclusion!

#EmbracingLight #CatSirota #BinarySouls #BookReview #FantasyBooks

[Naes.bookcorner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have no words to describe this book expect for amazing! Suspenseful! Captivating! And CLIFFHANGER 😭😂 this book had me in a chokehold from the very start, I couldn’t put it down! I love the storyline but that cliffhanger has me wanting more and left me in a book hangover. I love the characters and how they evolve throughout the book. I love Estrid and Zain’ relationship and how they both care for each other so deeply they are willing to risk their lives for each other. I love the world building and the magic side of things, it is full of so much suspense that I was sitting on the edge of my seat for most of the book, i thought I knew what was coming only to be completely wrong!

[Ashleigh (A Page Once Turned) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the absolute pleasure of ARC reading this beauty. And what a conclusion to this Duology it was!

I do recommend reading book 1 and 2 back to back as book 2 starts where book 1 ends. and if you have a memory like mine you will be lost for a bit 🤣

Estrid is a strong FMC that we love to see even with everything thing that she goes through on her journey. And what a journey she goes on, navigating finding her mate and being heir to 2 thrones.
It has all the makings of a great story with found family, fated mates, betrayal and so much more.

[Allison Agnello · Rating 4 out of 5]

Estrid and Zain's story is all set, and the cliffhanger ending pointing to a few favorite side character stories continue 😍 I love a fated mates story and was so happy at what they choose to do before fighting Malic.

This duology would be perfect for new to fantasy readers and anyone hesitant to read fantasy that love romance. There are also fun side characters that I think really make a series.

Rafe and Alvey being so close is cool and I hope we explore that in the next series. I have never read about someone's familiar bonding so well to someone else and would love to better understand that. Especially when its clear Alvey needs it.

I hope the next series there is a little more depth to some of the situations the MCs experience. I'd love to see a situation that isnt resolved by the next chapter to give me more suspenseful moments.

[Brody Hitchcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cat Sirota has done such an amazing job writing "Embracing Light." As a follow-up to "Forgiving Darkness," this book seamlessly continues the captivating story of Astrid and Zain, drawing the reader right back into their world from the first chapter.

​There is so much that goes on in this book, and the plot is packed with emotional moments and significant developments that keep you turning the page. What truly stands out is the incredible connection between the two main characters. Sirota writes their bond with such depth and authenticity, making you feel every challenge and triumph right alongside them. It's impossible not to become invested in their journey and fall in love with them as a couple.

​Even though this book marks the end of their primary story, the ending leaves you on a massive cliffhanger, eagerly anticipating what else might happen in this incredible world. It’s a fantastic conclusion that also opens the door to so many new possibilities.

[Melanie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pleasantly unpredictable

Any fantasy reader worthy of their wings would have read enough tales of magical Fae realms, to question whether room still remained, for further development of the lore and legends of the more widely known places and races.

The Realm of Faery, it would seem, is one of those such worlds where - despite being a place of other authors settings - both the legends of past wars, and the prophecies of emboldened, unexpected hero's, pave the way for epic new tales to still be told.

I was so impressed with the varied concepts for the different creatures and courts, and how Cat had built on to Faery, in a way that felt both like pleasure of coming home to a favourite place and the excitement at turning pages, to embark on an adventure into a strange land.

I fell in love with Embracing Light and it's characters, some of which I felt like I was bonding with new found friends. My heart aching with the feelings of betrayal they would experience, just as it would soar like a giddy teenager at their flirtations. No matter how much they were denied, I know which team (or teams) I am cheering for.

This series is a wonderful read for fans of the Enemies to Lovers tropes, with broody and sassy males, plus strong yet malleable females warriors.

Without giving too much away... you'll also be able to appease your inner lover of;

Forgotten pasts
Traitorous family dynamics and Found families
And also the heartbreak of voices unable to be heard

I feel like this realm has some really awesome legends and mythologies still to be explored and I can't wait to see how Cat continues it on.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Telle · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all - that ending?! I’m sorry, no. Cat Sirota, you can’t just leave us like that. I’m equal parts furious and devastated, and yet… I absolutely loved it.

Embracing Light, the second book in the Binary Souls duology, takes everything Forgiving Darkness built and rips it wide open in the best and most heartbreaking ways. It’s intense, emotional, and utterly consuming. Sirota doesn’t hold back for a single second - every page hits harder than the last.

The world is dark and beautiful, full of morally grey areas, broken loyalties, and choices that make your heart ache. The stakes are higher, the tension sharper, and the character growth phenomenal. Every triumph feels earned, and every loss feels like a punch to the gut. Do not get attached to side characters - you will regret it. I learned that the hard way.

I will say this: the trigger warnings had me side-eyeing before I even started (incest?! what in the actual-), but once I dove in, I was too caught up in the chaos to stop. The emotions are raw, the betrayals cut deep, and the way Sirota writes grief and resilience is just chef’s kiss.

Certain characters (yes, Neros and Lavernia, I’m looking directly at you) made me rage. Poor Kala didn’t deserve that, and don’t even get me started on Cethin - why must you destroy me like this, Cat? It honestly feels like this book’s theme was “let’s emotionally wreck Estrid and everyone who loves her.”

By the end, I didn’t know if I wanted to scream, cry, or start a revenge list. I’m still reeling days later, and the emotional damage is real.

Despite the heartbreak, this book is stunning. Sirota’s writing is vivid and cinematic, the character arcs are powerful, and the emotional resonance is off the charts. It’s brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable.

If Forgiving Darkness was the descent, Embracing Light is the reckoning - and I cannot wait to see what Cat Sirota does next.

Thank you to Cat & team for allowing me to read book two as an arc as well - all opinions are my own and all rage is directed at the book, not the author herself (even thought I would like to smack her the teensiest bit for the emotional damage sustained from reading this.)

[Vicki Stansfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I have words that do justice to how good Embracing Light, the sequel in the Binary Souls Duology, is. The world, the characters and everything plotwise, had me constantly thinking about it, long after I finished reading. I didn't want it to end, despite reading fervently to find out what was going to happen. To me that is the mark of a brilliant book, compelling you to read and desperate to not be finished with the book, to remain immersed in that world.

The world building enables you to imagine that world but it doesn't override the story which is key here because..what a story!!! So much happens! I found myself experiencing the full gamut of emotions from one chapter to the next, sometimes one page to the next. I was overjoyed, swooned, angsted, cried, screamed. You name it, I experienced it.

I loved the characters in Forgiving Darkness but they all just develop with such depth in Embracing Light that I can't choose just one favourite now!

Estrid and Zain have such strength of character and power. They are the perfect pairing (in a beautiful and believable way) I equally adored Rafe, Alvey, Del and Faris, loved seeing their stories unfold and am both anxious and excited for what's to come for some of them.

The pace of this book just escalates and kept me hooked, angsting until I gasped and screamed, "Nooooooo!" When you read Embracing Light, be prepared for a relentless, addictive, incredible ride..just bring tissues.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ralitsa Vasileva · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐

“Now, can you please help Zain? Queen Lavernia, the loathsome hag, is about to become a problem. It’s becoming hard to watch.”
Estrid cocks her eyebrow at him. “What do you want me to do? Freeze them all?”
“Interesting thought, but no. Just give them a taste of how powerful you are. Scare them a little.” Alvey shrugs and steps back.

A great continuation of the story of Ester and Zain.

Here we see less from the world building and much more from the plot. The pace as well picks and the story becomes even more captivating. I definitely "eat" that one faster than the first.

I love the change in Alvey. But I am a bit puzzled about the connection he had with Rafe - he is someone else's familiar 🤷‍♀️ Still I would have loved to see more from Rafe - he is just fricking adorable.

“He can stay with me,” Alvey says, using both of his bigger-than-average hands to scratch all of Rafe’s belly. “You can be my advisor, can’t you, Rafe? I think you’ll come in handy when speaking to some of the older advisors.”

I had better luck accepting the present tense third POV or probably I got used to it 😄

The ending is a bit unpredictable but gives an opportunity of new story - maybe different characters? 👀🤫

I can suggest you picking this duology if you haven't yet and read it - it is a great story between heavy books. 😊

Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow… Embracing Light by Cat Sirota hit me right in the heart and didn’t let go. From my point of view, this conclusion to the Binary Souls duology is everything I hoped for—and more. Estrid and Zain’s journey is dark, twisted, and utterly intoxicating, and I felt every bit of their pain, fury, and scorching connection as if I were standing right beside them in Faery.
Watching Estrid step into her Fae royal role while juggling the weight of vengeance, volatile magic, and heartbreak? Chef’s kiss. And the tension between her and Zain? Soul-deep, electric, and completely consuming. Cat Sirota doesn’t hold back—every revelation, betrayal, and court intrigue had my pulse racing. I loved how the story balanced pulse-pounding danger with the slow burn of fated love, and the found family elements added such rich, emotional layers that made me care even more about everyone involved.
The stakes feel enormous without losing the personal, intimate moments that made me root so hard for Estrid and Zain. And that finale? Explosive, satisfying, and filled with the kind of redemption and triumph I live for in dark fantasy romance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Embracing Light is dark, passionate, and utterly unputdownable. If you’ve been with Estrid and Zain from the beginning, prepare to have your heart stolen, your breath taken, and your love for Fae romance reaffirmed. This duology ended exactly the way it should: unforgettable.

[Meranie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Embracing Light. The story picks up with the same energy and emotional intensity as the first book, and I loved how the world continues to expand in surprising and meaningful ways. The atmosphere remains one of the series’ strongest elements — rich, immersive, and full of that same haunting beauty that made the Dark Forest so memorable in book one.

I found myself appreciating Zain and Estrid a lot more this time around. Their relationship feels deeper and more grounded, and the emotional progression between them felt more convincing to me. They still have their flaws — and sometimes their stubbornness made me want to shake them ... but that actually added to their growth and made their connection feel more earned.
As for Del and Faris… I adored every single one of their interactions. Their dynamic is chaotic, sharp, and absolutely addictive. They’re still stuck in that delicious tension somewhere between rivalry and something much more complicated, and I’m honestly rooting harder than ever for them to end together

The pacing remains fast, with a few moments that felt a little rushed, but overall the story’s momentum never let me go. The twists, the emotional stakes, and the strong found-family theme all worked wonderfully together. The world feels bigger, the characters feel more layered, and the story kept me fully engaged from beginning to end.
I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this was definitely a 5-star read. The world-building was fantastic; the pace of the book was fast, intriguing, and always something that stopped me from putting it down. It made me laugh and cry, and not going to lie, it devastated me a couple of times.

Our FMC Estrid is a witch with Shadow and now winter powers. She is independent, strong, and ever so stubborn. I loved her determination and desire to keep those around her safe, even if I wanted to shake her a couple of times.

Our MMC Zain is fae from the Summer court with a little extra. He is strong, caring, and protective of those he loves, at times overprotective of Estrid, but he never stops her when she is determined. (Green Flag!). I adore his growth and desire for a better, more inclusive world.

The found family; I adore them all. They were all written so well, with such distinct personalities and ways of seeing the world, and how they fit in with Estrid and Zain. Special mentions to Rafe - our Shadow Wolf companion, Alvery, Del, Feris, Cethin, Noor, Imaya, Edur, and Mikeal.

Tropes:
Found Family
Betrayal and Redemption
Revenge
FMC with Shadow Magic
Fated Mates
Prophecy
Fae Court
Spice 2 chilli pepper

This is now a completed Duology; however, it does end in a cliffhanger. It paints the picture for the next series in this world.

[Susana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Embracing Light had a lot of elements I appreciated, though it ultimately took me longer to read than expected. I found myself picking it up and setting it down over several months, often reading other books in between. While there were moments that pulled me in, it was sometimes difficult to stay consistently engaged.

Estrid continues to be a strong and thoughtful protagonist, and I enjoyed watching her navigate her role as a Fae royal while facing increasingly complex emotional and magical challenges. The relationship between Estrid and Zain remains an important anchor in the story, adding heart and depth when the plot slowed.

The world-building is detailed and clearly well developed. At times, however, the level of detail affected the pacing for me, making parts of the story feel slower than I prefer. That said, the emotional moments and character-driven scenes often made the investment feel worthwhile.

As a conclusion, Embracing Light brings meaningful resolution to many of the story’s arcs, even if the journey there required patience. Readers who enjoy slower-paced fantasy with an emphasis on character and atmosphere will likely connect with this book more strongly.

Overall, this was a good read with moments that stood out, even if it did not fully hold my attention throughout.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Ange Bennetts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of this now completed duet (that leads into a new series - so cliffhanger on the drama in the world for now) that has absolutely become my new obsession. Estrid and Zain are such brilliant characters - both strong and capable, both battling their light and dark sides (but in different ways) they truly are binary souls. I felt like this book was all about faith, in more ways than one! But definitely the faith and trust that you have in your other half. With such dual natured people, its always a battle to find your balance and i really felt like we got to see that battle both internally and externally for them both. All that aside - these two are sexy AF together and I loved all the steam. The side characters are really the supports here, for Estrid and Zain and for us readers. They all have gone through so much darkness and all to bring peace to their homes. It totally hurt my heart everytime one of them showed what haunts them - Del especially gets my respect and understanding- its not easy being what everyone thinks is a grumpy girl! We are complicated onions, you have to start peeling. Cat, whatever else you bring to this world, I for one will be cheering you on from the sidelines! These two books have entered my top 5 and i doubt they are going anywhere!

[PearlIsReadingThis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve always loved the characters in this book.

I loved watching Estrid mature and grow throughout the series. I loved watching her magic grow and seeing her learn about her magic.

I love Cat’s writing style.

This book kept me engaged and invested in the wellbeing of the characters I’ve grown to love. Losing characters through death saddened me, but that is a testament of Cat’s great writing.

The plot flowed as smooth as silk. The world building was incredible as I knew it would be from the first book. Cat expanded the world building, the magic system and added more mythical creatures. It was impressive the way she packed so much in one book. The battle scenes were exciting and also entertaining.

Cat should be proud of producing this book because in my opinion, a lot of people will enjoy this book so much.

I’ll be recommending this book to all of my reader friends and I’ll be happy to recommend it to everyone who enjoys reading.

#fantasyromance #bookrelease #newbookrelease #fantasybooks #romancebooks #bookstagram #indieauthor #authorsofinstagram #readingcommunity #amreadingfantasy #booksofinstagram #romantasy

[Gayatri Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cat Sirota has once again proven her masterful talent for writing a captivating and exhilarating story. This book was phenomenal, exceeding all expectations.

The world-building is immersive, anchored by an exceptionally well-crafted and original magic system. The relentless plot, packed with high-stakes action and profound emotional developments, kept me glued to the pages from start to finish.

The main characters, Estrid and Zain, are truly unforgettable. Estrid, the strong, stubborn, and intelligent FMC, is driven by grief and vengeance. Her soulmate, Zain, is her perfect counterpart. Their relationship is written with remarkable depth and it's impossible not to fall head-over-heels for them as a couple.

If you haven't started this series yet, you won't be disappointed. Cat Sirota is the first Kiwi Fantasy author I've read, and she sets an incredibly high bar. While this book brings its primary story to a close, the massive cliffhanger leaves you anticipating the next installment in this world! I need the next book now.

A must-read for all fantasy fans!

5/5 Stars!

[Haylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's tender, hopeful, and beautifully written

A story that feels like a deep breath after the storm. Cat Sirota delivers an emotional follow-up that doesn’t just heal the wounds left behind; it explores what it really means to move forward and choose joy again.

The writing is soft yet powerful, full of quiet moments that hit hard. The characters feel so real, still carrying their scars, still learning how to trust both themselves and each other. The chemistry between them is gentle and genuine, built on understanding and the kind of love that grows slowly but deeply.

Sirota’s prose has this poetic rhythm that makes even the smallest details shimmer. She doesn’t rush the healing; instead, she lets it unfold naturally, reminding readers that hope isn’t instant, it’s something you learn to hold onto, piece by piece.

Embracing Light is a story about second chances, forgiveness, and the beauty of choosing love again after loss. It’s emotional, uplifting, and quietly unforgettable.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embracing Light is a stunning and seductive conclusion to the Binary Souls duology a spellbinding tale where vengeance, destiny, and forbidden love collide with breathtaking emotional force. Cat Sirota crafts a world that is as enchanting as it is dangerous, filled with the kind of passion, betrayal, and redemption that keeps readers holding their breath until the very end.

Estrid’s transformation from a furious avenger to a queen torn between light and shadow is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her bond with Zain burns with both power and fragility, capturing the essence of fated love while confronting the painful truths that come with it. Every scene feels cinematic, layered with tension, beauty, and raw emotion that deepens the mythology and the heart of the story.

Sirota’s writing is lush, immersive, and emotionally charged, a testament to her gift for blending fantasy grandeur with human vulnerability. Embracing Light doesn’t just end a duology; it crowns it.

[Ashley M · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great continuation to this story! After the cliffhanger in book one, Embracing Light takes you right back into Faery as Estrid and Zain continue their fight to save the courts from falling to evil.

The found family in this one is so good! Alvey and Rafe top the list, and I love how this little family does whatever they can to help each other. Several of the characters sacrifice themselves to potentially save the others, and I loved the character dynamics involved.

I loved the worldbuilding in this one; you get to see more of Faery, including the Winter Court, where Estrid's mother is from, and its people.

The plot grows in Embracing Light, and betrayals, hidden secrets, and lies are revealed in an emotional journey of acceptance, love, and hope.

Even though this is book two of the duology, Cat leaves us on ANOTHER cliff as a way to introduce the next story she'll be giving us—and I can't wait to read it!

[Mackenzie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This narrative picks up at a high point of action without offering readers too much of a refresh or chance to orient. If you’re not coming into this with a relatively fresh recollection of book one I would recommend a re-read before diving in.

The world presented is still well developed and incredibly immersive; scenes are grounded with vivid imagery and a high level of detail.

Individually the aspects and elements of this narrative should contribute to an unforgettable read. However, I feel the perspective choice prevented this narrative from reaching its full potential. It inhibits what might otherwise be impactful: Estrid’s growth through this installment, and across the narrative is well written, but hard to connect to.

The pacing in this installment was more consistent, but the conclusion did ultimately feel a bit abrupt, and there were some plot threads left unresolved.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah E B ʚ♡ɞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 Stars
An epic win for creativity and imagination! The author has a real talent for crafting a world that feels both magical and believable. The journey was captivating from start to finish, filled with rich detail and a sense of wonder that kept me turning the pages.

The worldbuilding was beautifully done — enchanting without being overwhelming — and the pacing pulled me in right away. I was especially drawn to Estrid and her story; she’s such an intriguing character with layers that unfold as the book goes on. Watching her journey develop was easily one of my favorite parts.

Overall, this was a beautifully written and imaginative read that completely pulled me in. I can’t wait to see what the author does next!

[Danni · Rating 4 out of 5]

With this being part two of the Binary Soul Duology I had expected all my questions to be answered.
The way Estrid's journey continues to unfold alongside Zain is phenomenal.

Her transformation from a grieving daughter to the courageous Fae queen is emotional and beautifully written.
What started off as a slow burn romance between Estrid and Zain quickly picks up the pace; every touch and lingering passion is so intentional and maybe even electric.
Their destiny is curved with grief, vengeance and their own emotional growth as individuals.

I wish we saw more of what came next for Faery at the end, I think there were a few loose ends that needed to be tied off but knowing Cat Sirota, she's got something up her sleeve.
If you love romantasy then this is definitely for you.

[Stephanie Skiffington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This duology has me in a complete chokehold!! The world and character building is just fantastic. Cat really knows how to just describe everything that makes you feel like you are right there. This story had so much in it that you just want to keep reading; betrayal, redemption, loss, secrecy, unique magic system, and found family. Estrid and Zain are absolute goals and he just cares so much about her. He would do anything for her and I am here for it. This is a romantasy story you really don't want to miss, it just grips you right from the start. Also that cliffhanger!! Can I have the next one please?

[Melissa Keifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG OMG OMG!!!!! Y'all seriously this story is fricken AMAZING, SPICYYYY, twisted, has plot twists that you never see coming, and seriously pulls at your heart strings ( make sure you have the tissues ) Y'all if you haven't been following Estrid and Zain and their journey what have you been doing with your life because you are seriously missing out. Also the side characters are some of the most memorable they absolutely leave an impact on the story as well. Also i know this is a Duology but once y'all read it you will agree with me that we need more to finish out Estrid and Zains story....

[Book Hooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very lucky to receive an ARC copy of Book 2 after I fell in love with Book 1. What an emotional journey. I found myself getting excited, happy, sad, frustrated, and audibly screaming "nooooooooooo". I really enjoy Cat's writing style. Even with the cliff hangers. Get writing Cat because I'm ready for the next book. I would also really love to see the story of Estrid's parents and Noor. If that isn't already in the works 😉