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Mystic City: Souls and Spirits
In Arcadia, a city alive with magic and teeming with vampires, angels, witches, and werewolves, Leila Starquin has always been the exception—a human girl living an ordinary life in an extraordinary world. She’s spent her days navigating classes and her nights wrapped in laughter and carefree revelry, content to enjoy the wonder around her without being a part of it.
But everything changes the night she stumbles onto a crime scene. Souls are being devoured—ripped away before they can pass on—and no one knows who, or what, is behind it. Suddenly, Leila finds herself under the watchful eye of Grim, a brooding and mysterious shepherd of souls tasked with keeping the afterlife in balance. Grim is convinced Leila’s presence at the scene is no accident, and worse—she might be the key to the growing chaos.
Desperate to prove her innocence, Leila joins forces with Grim, plunging herself into the depths of Arcadia’s secrets. Together, they hunt an elusive soul eater, treading dangerous ground where shadows hide truths and alliances can’t be trusted. But the more she uncovers, the more Leila begins to realize that her ordinary life might not have been so ordinary after all.
As her connection to Grim deepens, and as the mysteries surrounding the city—and herself—begin to unravel, Leila is faced with impossible choices. The fate of Arcadia rests on a balance she never asked to tip, and the answers she seeks might change everything.
Perfect for fans of Crescent City and The Shadowhunter Chronicles, Mystic City blends urban fantasy, slow-burn romance, and heart-pounding mystery into an unforgettable story about love, loss, and the courage to face who you really are.
But everything changes the night she stumbles onto a crime scene. Souls are being devoured—ripped away before they can pass on—and no one knows who, or what, is behind it. Suddenly, Leila finds herself under the watchful eye of Grim, a brooding and mysterious shepherd of souls tasked with keeping the afterlife in balance. Grim is convinced Leila’s presence at the scene is no accident, and worse—she might be the key to the growing chaos.
Desperate to prove her innocence, Leila joins forces with Grim, plunging herself into the depths of Arcadia’s secrets. Together, they hunt an elusive soul eater, treading dangerous ground where shadows hide truths and alliances can’t be trusted. But the more she uncovers, the more Leila begins to realize that her ordinary life might not have been so ordinary after all.
As her connection to Grim deepens, and as the mysteries surrounding the city—and herself—begin to unravel, Leila is faced with impossible choices. The fate of Arcadia rests on a balance she never asked to tip, and the answers she seeks might change everything.
Perfect for fans of Crescent City and The Shadowhunter Chronicles, Mystic City blends urban fantasy, slow-burn romance, and heart-pounding mystery into an unforgettable story about love, loss, and the courage to face who you really are.
- GenresFantasy
608 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2025
8 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 29, 2025
DNF.
I was given an ARC of this, but I didn't get past the first chapter, which was a long, dense info-dump. It was also littered with so many mistakes. 🫤 I can forgive the odd mistake, but there were just too many and trying to figure out what the sentences were actually supposed to say felt like more work than it was worth. Especially for a 700+ page book.
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I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was given an ARC of this, but I didn't get past the first chapter, which was a long, dense info-dump. It was also littered with so many mistakes. 🫤 I can forgive the odd mistake, but there were just too many and trying to figure out what the sentences were actually supposed to say felt like more work than it was worth. Especially for a 700+ page book.
—
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
Izzy is an Indie author who worked really hard to get her story out there and make her dream come true and it shows! These books (1&2) are a work of passion and dedication. Also us so kind and supportive which makes it a extra joy to ARC for her.
This book takes us to Arcadia a modern urban fantasy world. Jam packed with action, murder, intrige, mystery, magic, soul searching, complex family dynamics, friendship, romance and love.
The books ar both 500+ pages and you need to concentrate to be able to understand and follow the story. It is a really good story. Izzy makes use of Japanese mythology which was new to me and I really enjoyed that.
Book 1 gives us romance and mystery. The booms ends with a really good cliffy. I was lucky enough to dive into book 2 soon after. Our fmc seems powerless but is so strong willed! Our mmc is a mysterious shadow daddy full of secrets and pain. Their chemistry is lovely. I really enjoyed the friendships both old and new. Which I suspect will lead to a beautiful found family. Izzys’ focusses on the story and doesn’t include unnecessary tropes which I love.
Where book 1 left me with many questions book 2 luckily provides more answers. I enjoyed the action in book 2 very much. I am normally not an fan of miscommunication between characters but in this book It didn’t bother me because when things get resolved it isn’t drawn out or repeated.
The multiple POV’s are great it gives us more insight in the story and our characters.
I highly recommend that you take a chance on this series especially if you enjoy:
- slow burn
- multiple POV
- a little spice
- Urban fantasy
- murder mystery
- action
- shadow daddy
- feminine rage
- magic
- mystical creatures
- Japanese mythology
I can’t wait for book 3!
This book takes us to Arcadia a modern urban fantasy world. Jam packed with action, murder, intrige, mystery, magic, soul searching, complex family dynamics, friendship, romance and love.
The books ar both 500+ pages and you need to concentrate to be able to understand and follow the story. It is a really good story. Izzy makes use of Japanese mythology which was new to me and I really enjoyed that.
Book 1 gives us romance and mystery. The booms ends with a really good cliffy. I was lucky enough to dive into book 2 soon after. Our fmc seems powerless but is so strong willed! Our mmc is a mysterious shadow daddy full of secrets and pain. Their chemistry is lovely. I really enjoyed the friendships both old and new. Which I suspect will lead to a beautiful found family. Izzys’ focusses on the story and doesn’t include unnecessary tropes which I love.
Where book 1 left me with many questions book 2 luckily provides more answers. I enjoyed the action in book 2 very much. I am normally not an fan of miscommunication between characters but in this book It didn’t bother me because when things get resolved it isn’t drawn out or repeated.
The multiple POV’s are great it gives us more insight in the story and our characters.
I highly recommend that you take a chance on this series especially if you enjoy:
- slow burn
- multiple POV
- a little spice
- Urban fantasy
- murder mystery
- action
- shadow daddy
- feminine rage
- magic
- mystical creatures
- Japanese mythology
I can’t wait for book 3!
October 27, 2025
This book was jam packed and huge! I was not prepared for how long it would be because I don't look at things like page numbers lol.
It did a lot of work in terms of world building and the creation of an interesting society and place. I found the elements of the world quite engaging and enjoyed the urban fantasy style. The characters had a lot of potential and mystery twined around them. I had lots of questions from early on about what they could potentially achieve through the story. It is important to note this is book one in a series.
I flowed fairly well with the writing style but at times I was jarred out of the story and found myself questioning what was going on and I had to go back and re-read a few sections. Some of the conversations between characters didn't flow as well and sometimes I felt like unexpected information popped up that had me confused. However, when I just went with the flow and kept going I was quickly able to re-engage.
I think people who enjoy The Glow of the Everflame and the crime/detective elements of Crescent City would enjoy this. I got lots of Bryce and Hunt vibes. I also found some of the world building style similar to The Glow of the Everflame, not in terms of being the same but the way the world building was done.
I was able to really clearly visualise characters and events through the descriptions and was intrigued by some of the elements which I guess would be revealed in the next book.
Overall I am not upset about my Aussie Indie author adventure so far!
It did a lot of work in terms of world building and the creation of an interesting society and place. I found the elements of the world quite engaging and enjoyed the urban fantasy style. The characters had a lot of potential and mystery twined around them. I had lots of questions from early on about what they could potentially achieve through the story. It is important to note this is book one in a series.
I flowed fairly well with the writing style but at times I was jarred out of the story and found myself questioning what was going on and I had to go back and re-read a few sections. Some of the conversations between characters didn't flow as well and sometimes I felt like unexpected information popped up that had me confused. However, when I just went with the flow and kept going I was quickly able to re-engage.
I think people who enjoy The Glow of the Everflame and the crime/detective elements of Crescent City would enjoy this. I got lots of Bryce and Hunt vibes. I also found some of the world building style similar to The Glow of the Everflame, not in terms of being the same but the way the world building was done.
I was able to really clearly visualise characters and events through the descriptions and was intrigued by some of the elements which I guess would be revealed in the next book.
Overall I am not upset about my Aussie Indie author adventure so far!
December 4, 2025
Such the adventure!!
Where magic and supernatural creatures thrive, Leila Starquin (Fmc) stands out as a human living a remarkably ordinary life until her world is forever turned on its head, as she stumbles upon a crime scene that sets her on a twisted journey.
Arcadia, where souls are being ripped away, disrupting the natural order, with no one the wiser of who or what is behind it.
The mystery deepens as Leila finds herself immersed with a newfound foe, Grim (Mmc) an intriguing yet mysterious, shepherd of souls, steadfast on maintaining harmony in the afterlife.
As Grim and Leila team up, he believes she holds the key to healing the rift and nothing is as it seems.
The world building is vast, the elements are descriptive, twisted, and dark. As the plot deepens, the trio traverses treacherous grounds, where shadows conceal truths, hidden secrets abound and allegiances are tried.
This is quite the story, with its unique blend of mystery, humor, and heart. Mystic City will take you on a captivating journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. so cozy up for a long ride and a cliff hanger ..
Where magic and supernatural creatures thrive, Leila Starquin (Fmc) stands out as a human living a remarkably ordinary life until her world is forever turned on its head, as she stumbles upon a crime scene that sets her on a twisted journey.
Arcadia, where souls are being ripped away, disrupting the natural order, with no one the wiser of who or what is behind it.
The mystery deepens as Leila finds herself immersed with a newfound foe, Grim (Mmc) an intriguing yet mysterious, shepherd of souls, steadfast on maintaining harmony in the afterlife.
As Grim and Leila team up, he believes she holds the key to healing the rift and nothing is as it seems.
The world building is vast, the elements are descriptive, twisted, and dark. As the plot deepens, the trio traverses treacherous grounds, where shadows conceal truths, hidden secrets abound and allegiances are tried.
This is quite the story, with its unique blend of mystery, humor, and heart. Mystic City will take you on a captivating journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. so cozy up for a long ride and a cliff hanger ..
May 1, 2025
This book is amazing! The mix of dark fantasy, magic, and all the emotional parts made it super immersive. Arcadia felt so real with all its history, danger, and beauty.
Leila and Grim? I loved them. Their relationship wasn’t just romantic; it was deep and emotional. You could really feel their connection. Leila, as a main character, really stood out to me. I love an FMC who is not backing down from a challenge. She’s not perfect, and that’s what makes her awesome. Seeing her grow, face tough choices, and fight through everything thrown at her was so inspiring.
I don’t usually read long books, but this one was 100% worth it. It picks up as it goes, and by the end, I didn’t want to stop reading.
The only thing I didn’t love was that sometimes it described everything a bit too much; a little less detail would’ve kept a better pace to the story from my point of view.
If you’re into fantasy with strong characters, feelings, and a bit of darkness, you should totally read Mystic City: Souls and Spirits. I really recommend it!
Leila and Grim? I loved them. Their relationship wasn’t just romantic; it was deep and emotional. You could really feel their connection. Leila, as a main character, really stood out to me. I love an FMC who is not backing down from a challenge. She’s not perfect, and that’s what makes her awesome. Seeing her grow, face tough choices, and fight through everything thrown at her was so inspiring.
I don’t usually read long books, but this one was 100% worth it. It picks up as it goes, and by the end, I didn’t want to stop reading.
The only thing I didn’t love was that sometimes it described everything a bit too much; a little less detail would’ve kept a better pace to the story from my point of view.
If you’re into fantasy with strong characters, feelings, and a bit of darkness, you should totally read Mystic City: Souls and Spirits. I really recommend it!
April 27, 2025
Izzy has the makings of a truly epic series here, with the first instalment for Mystic City, Souls and Spirits. The concept, the twists and the lore are solid and compelling.
I loved the mix of modern settings, yet still Gothic, interspersed with traditional magic yet tempered with other cultures and their beliefs. It all melts into a rich and complex system and world.
There were so many great lines and so much raw emotion bleeding from the page, that you are soon sucked into Leila and Grims' complicated story. The first chapter is a behometh, but once you are through it, the story finds its pace and Izzy's humour and storytelling shines through.
And also, I dare you not to fall in love with Callaghan and of course Grim...
I loved the mix of modern settings, yet still Gothic, interspersed with traditional magic yet tempered with other cultures and their beliefs. It all melts into a rich and complex system and world.
There were so many great lines and so much raw emotion bleeding from the page, that you are soon sucked into Leila and Grims' complicated story. The first chapter is a behometh, but once you are through it, the story finds its pace and Izzy's humour and storytelling shines through.
And also, I dare you not to fall in love with Callaghan and of course Grim...
April 30, 2025
Every page is filled with love and passion... and it shows
April 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
this book was so long and it didn’t need to be so long, i get that we really needed to set the scene for the final moments and yes the twist was excellent, the story the plot was amazing - just got lost in everything else
this book was so long and it didn’t need to be so long, i get that we really needed to set the scene for the final moments and yes the twist was excellent, the story the plot was amazing - just got lost in everything else
April 11, 2025
During a night out, celebrating her 19th birthday, something happens to Leila and her friends, setting in motion a series of events which have catastrophic consequences - but what does it all mean?
This book had great concepts and an amazing chrmaracter set. The development was good, and I enjoyed the story; I’m interested to know more about what happened to Leila, and Grim!
The thing that held this back from a 4 star for me was the oversaturation of descriptive language within the book. Everything was described too much - Leila’s outfits, Mae’s outfits, the tea shop, her apartment, her hair. It took away from the enjoyment of the book for me, as it focussed to much on the minutiae. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed this book and the journey of the Kitsune!
This book had great concepts and an amazing chrmaracter set. The development was good, and I enjoyed the story; I’m interested to know more about what happened to Leila, and Grim!
The thing that held this back from a 4 star for me was the oversaturation of descriptive language within the book. Everything was described too much - Leila’s outfits, Mae’s outfits, the tea shop, her apartment, her hair. It took away from the enjoyment of the book for me, as it focussed to much on the minutiae. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed this book and the journey of the Kitsune!
April 11, 2025
4.25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best way I can describe this book is mystical, especially considering it’s Fleay’s debut novel. It has you intrigued from the beginning wondering how a human girl, Leila, fits into a city where everyone else is a mystic (basically vampires, werewolves, wizards, and so much more). There’s mystery, banter, some steaminess, sarcasm, laugh out loud moments, and moments that just gut you.
This book personally reminded me of a mix of Brooklyn 99, Crescent City, and Naruto. So if you’re a lover of any of these, this book should be right up your alley!
So happy mystical reading!
The best way I can describe this book is mystical, especially considering it’s Fleay’s debut novel. It has you intrigued from the beginning wondering how a human girl, Leila, fits into a city where everyone else is a mystic (basically vampires, werewolves, wizards, and so much more). There’s mystery, banter, some steaminess, sarcasm, laugh out loud moments, and moments that just gut you.
This book personally reminded me of a mix of Brooklyn 99, Crescent City, and Naruto. So if you’re a lover of any of these, this book should be right up your alley!
So happy mystical reading!
April 4, 2025
"Mystic City blends urban fantasy, slow-burn romance, and heart-pounding mystery into an unforgettable story about love, loss, and the courage to face who you really are"
This was a really good read!
It was refreshing to read about a magical word where the main is a human who goes through love and loss and having to try prove herself innocent!
I loved the slow burn, the world building and the companions 😭
Everything melded smoothly into each other without being confusing or overwhelming
Leia and Grim are perfection 👌
Leia and Callaghan's banter was beautiful, it made me laugh so much!
The cliffhanger at the end was done beautifully and I cannot wait for the second book to unravel more!
•
•
•
Side note: Anyone else really wanna go to Gingers cause like same 🤣
This was a really good read!
It was refreshing to read about a magical word where the main is a human who goes through love and loss and having to try prove herself innocent!
I loved the slow burn, the world building and the companions 😭
Everything melded smoothly into each other without being confusing or overwhelming
Leia and Grim are perfection 👌
Leia and Callaghan's banter was beautiful, it made me laugh so much!
The cliffhanger at the end was done beautifully and I cannot wait for the second book to unravel more!
•
•
•
Side note: Anyone else really wanna go to Gingers cause like same 🤣
April 5, 2025
4,75 ⭐
ARC review
Check the TW's
This is a very long book, but the story is so intriguing you just get sucked in, and don't realise you've spent hours reading.
I really loved how this book started with an introduction to vampire houses, werewolf packs and witch covens.
I loved the characters, their interactions, the banter and the slow burn. The amount of world building was perfect.
The book ends with a cliffhanger and the fact that we don't know where Leila's rabbit Blue is, is killing me. I need book two now!
ARC review
Check the TW's
This is a very long book, but the story is so intriguing you just get sucked in, and don't realise you've spent hours reading.
I really loved how this book started with an introduction to vampire houses, werewolf packs and witch covens.
I loved the characters, their interactions, the banter and the slow burn. The amount of world building was perfect.
The book ends with a cliffhanger and the fact that we don't know where Leila's rabbit Blue is, is killing me. I need book two now!
April 10, 2025
This was a really good book to read, it is VERY long though, but it does warn you.
The mfc Leila is just a boss b***h, and I loved her character.
We are left on a cliffhanger, and I am excited for book 2.
The mfc Leila is just a boss b***h, and I loved her character.
We are left on a cliffhanger, and I am excited for book 2.
April 2, 2025
☆ 5 stars ☆
⤷ the story ₊˚⊹♡
Leila lives in Arcadia, a city alive with magic and populated with mystical beings. She has always been the exception, a human girl with an ordinary life—at least until one night she finds herself at a crime scene. Suddenly, Grim, who is investigating the case, constantly watches her. To prove her innocence, Leila and Grim form an alliance that will lead her to uncover secrets about the danger in the shadows and herself.
⤷ thoughts ₊˚⊹♡
- The world-building was fantastic, I could see myself walking down Crescent Avenue to get a muffin at Ginger's Bakery
- The SLOW BURN !!!!! It was sooo good
- The murder mystery had me hooked from the first page
- The ending was the perfect cliffhanger, and I can't wait to read book 2
- The banter between Leila and Callaghan was top-tier, I was laughing soo much all the time. Callaghan was giving Haymitch, from Hunger Games, vibes.
- Honorable mention for Blue, Stella and Corvus because they stole my heart, we love an animal companion here
. ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖
“Just because you don’t have powers doesn’t mean you are powerless.”
⤷ the story ₊˚⊹♡
Leila lives in Arcadia, a city alive with magic and populated with mystical beings. She has always been the exception, a human girl with an ordinary life—at least until one night she finds herself at a crime scene. Suddenly, Grim, who is investigating the case, constantly watches her. To prove her innocence, Leila and Grim form an alliance that will lead her to uncover secrets about the danger in the shadows and herself.
⤷ thoughts ₊˚⊹♡
- The world-building was fantastic, I could see myself walking down Crescent Avenue to get a muffin at Ginger's Bakery
- The SLOW BURN !!!!! It was sooo good
- The murder mystery had me hooked from the first page
- The ending was the perfect cliffhanger, and I can't wait to read book 2
- The banter between Leila and Callaghan was top-tier, I was laughing soo much all the time. Callaghan was giving Haymitch, from Hunger Games, vibes.
- Honorable mention for Blue, Stella and Corvus because they stole my heart, we love an animal companion here
. ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖ 𓂃 ⟡ 𓂃 . ݁ ˖
March 16, 2025
The fact that Author Izzy started Mystic City Souls and Spirits with trigger warnings is a huge green flag for me. As someone who usually struggles with longer books, I wasn’t expecting to get so hooked—but wow, I loved this read! It kept me hooked from start to finish, and I was left craving more. Yes, Chapter One is on the longer side, but don’t let that discourage you! Izzy quickly picks up the pace, and the plot is so gripping, I couldn’t put the book down.
Leila is such a powerful, MFC, compassionate, her big heart and soul proves that being human doesn’t make her any less powerful than the fairies, werewolves, vampires, soul eaters, or any other mystical creatures she encounters. Then there’s Grim, who is protective and mysterious but also reveals a side of himself that’s surprisingly giving and full of heart. His love for Leila and his bond with his best friend (who’s also like a father figure to him) add such depth to his character.
Just a heads-up: You’ll finish this book and immediately be left wanting Book 2!
Leila is such a powerful, MFC, compassionate, her big heart and soul proves that being human doesn’t make her any less powerful than the fairies, werewolves, vampires, soul eaters, or any other mystical creatures she encounters. Then there’s Grim, who is protective and mysterious but also reveals a side of himself that’s surprisingly giving and full of heart. His love for Leila and his bond with his best friend (who’s also like a father figure to him) add such depth to his character.
Just a heads-up: You’ll finish this book and immediately be left wanting Book 2!
April 3, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
This book completely pulled me in from the start! The world-building is next level—detailed but not overwhelming. I loved how the different houses, covens, and packs were introduced, making the world feel rich and immersive.
The pacing was perfect—every chapter kept me engaged, with no slow spots. Even the quieter moments added depth, whether through character growth, new twists, or world-building. The characters felt real, with genuine personalities and development, making it easy to connect with them.
And the slow-burn romance? Perfection. The chemistry builds naturally, and when those moments finally happen, they feel so earned.
Overall, this was an amazing read. The world, the characters, the romance—it all came together seamlessly, and I immediately wanted more when I finished!
✨ A huge thank you to the author Isabelle Fleay for sending me a copy of this arc. I am obsessed! ✨
This book completely pulled me in from the start! The world-building is next level—detailed but not overwhelming. I loved how the different houses, covens, and packs were introduced, making the world feel rich and immersive.
The pacing was perfect—every chapter kept me engaged, with no slow spots. Even the quieter moments added depth, whether through character growth, new twists, or world-building. The characters felt real, with genuine personalities and development, making it easy to connect with them.
And the slow-burn romance? Perfection. The chemistry builds naturally, and when those moments finally happen, they feel so earned.
Overall, this was an amazing read. The world, the characters, the romance—it all came together seamlessly, and I immediately wanted more when I finished!
✨ A huge thank you to the author Isabelle Fleay for sending me a copy of this arc. I am obsessed! ✨
August 27, 2025
Mystic City is a fun, atmospheric dive into a world where magic and monsters walk the streets, and one very human girl finds herself caught in the middle of something far bigger than she ever imagined. I really enjoyed the blend of urban fantasy and mystery here. The city of Arcadia feels alive, full of interesting creatures and hidden corners, and the soul-eating mystery adds a nice layer of suspense.
Leila is a likable protagonist with a strong voice, and Grim is the classic broody-but-intriguing character that fans of slow-burn romance will appreciate. Their dynamic had some nice moments, and while it took a bit to really get going, I was invested by the end.
A solid pick if you’re craving a magical world with danger, romance, and a touch of darkness.
Leila is a likable protagonist with a strong voice, and Grim is the classic broody-but-intriguing character that fans of slow-burn romance will appreciate. Their dynamic had some nice moments, and while it took a bit to really get going, I was invested by the end.
A solid pick if you’re craving a magical world with danger, romance, and a touch of darkness.
May 7, 2025
Very late ARC review
This book was LONG! so very long.
Things I liked about the book were the side-characters, Mae is literally the loml and the plot was so good!!
Things I disliked about the book, it was very info dumpy, so much information that it kinda took away from the plot and I found myself skipping over the paragraphs of information a lot. There was a lot of timeline inconsistencies and every time Blue was mentioned the fact that he was a rabbit was also mentioned, ALL THE TIME.
Personally the book wasn’t for me and I will not be continuing with the series although it may be a good book for others. I wish the best for Izzy in her author career and thank you so much for the ARC.
This book was LONG! so very long.
Things I liked about the book were the side-characters, Mae is literally the loml and the plot was so good!!
Things I disliked about the book, it was very info dumpy, so much information that it kinda took away from the plot and I found myself skipping over the paragraphs of information a lot. There was a lot of timeline inconsistencies and every time Blue was mentioned the fact that he was a rabbit was also mentioned, ALL THE TIME.
Personally the book wasn’t for me and I will not be continuing with the series although it may be a good book for others. I wish the best for Izzy in her author career and thank you so much for the ARC.
April 19, 2025
Just because you don’t have powers doesn’t mean you are powerless
In Arcadia, a city brimming with magic and mystical beings, Leila Starquin is a human living an ordinary life—until she stumbles upon a crime scene. Suddenly, Grim, who’s investigating the case, begins watching her closely. To prove her innocence, Leila and Grim form an alliance that uncovers dangerous secrets about the shadows—and herself. As she dives deeper into the mysteries of Arcadia, Leila faces choices that could change everything for the city and for her own future.
I’m officially obsessed. This book had everything I love—an addictive plot, an incredible world, characters I genuinely cared about, and that perfect slow-burn romance that actually delivers.
From the start, I was completely hooked. The pacing was spot on—not a single dull moment. I loved the character development and the new twists in the story. The characters felt so real, especially Leila. She’s human in a world full of mystical beings, but her strength, compassion, and huge heart make her stand out in the best way. She doesn’t need powers to be powerful, and that made me root for her even more.
And then there’s Grim. Mysterious, protective, emotionally complex—his relationship with Leila and his loyalty to his best friend added so much depth to his character. The chemistry between him and Leila builds so naturally, and when it finally starts to unfold? Perfection.
Oh, and the murder mystery? Had me fully invested. I love when a story keeps me guessing, and this one absolutely did. The ending left me screaming (in the best way)—I’m still thinking about that final twist and counting down the days until book two.
Huge thank you to Isabelle Fleay for this ARC—highly recommend to anyone who loves immersive fantasy, layered characters, and romance that hits right in the feels.
In Arcadia, a city brimming with magic and mystical beings, Leila Starquin is a human living an ordinary life—until she stumbles upon a crime scene. Suddenly, Grim, who’s investigating the case, begins watching her closely. To prove her innocence, Leila and Grim form an alliance that uncovers dangerous secrets about the shadows—and herself. As she dives deeper into the mysteries of Arcadia, Leila faces choices that could change everything for the city and for her own future.
I’m officially obsessed. This book had everything I love—an addictive plot, an incredible world, characters I genuinely cared about, and that perfect slow-burn romance that actually delivers.
From the start, I was completely hooked. The pacing was spot on—not a single dull moment. I loved the character development and the new twists in the story. The characters felt so real, especially Leila. She’s human in a world full of mystical beings, but her strength, compassion, and huge heart make her stand out in the best way. She doesn’t need powers to be powerful, and that made me root for her even more.
And then there’s Grim. Mysterious, protective, emotionally complex—his relationship with Leila and his loyalty to his best friend added so much depth to his character. The chemistry between him and Leila builds so naturally, and when it finally starts to unfold? Perfection.
Oh, and the murder mystery? Had me fully invested. I love when a story keeps me guessing, and this one absolutely did. The ending left me screaming (in the best way)—I’m still thinking about that final twist and counting down the days until book two.
Huge thank you to Isabelle Fleay for this ARC—highly recommend to anyone who loves immersive fantasy, layered characters, and romance that hits right in the feels.
April 11, 2025
HAPPY RELEASE DAY IZZY!!
I was sooo blessed to be an early reader and ARC and apart of Izzy’s street team. The amount of work, love and tears that had gone into this beautifully written book shows !
It’s deep and heavy world building that doesn’t take away of the plot and interactions with the MCs it blends so well together you never missed a beat.
The relationships between the characters are angsty and beautifully bonded. It gives me big buffy the vampire slayer meets charmed and shadow hunters. With other books I read, The first few chapters give me a fair idea on whether I am going to love or hate it and I knew by chapter 3 it’s the one I’m gonna love and recommend till the cows come home.
More of the review will come as Its going to be long and it’s so hard to write one without spoiling 🥲
But if you have made it this far… read it please I know you’re going to love it!! 🙌🏻
I was sooo blessed to be an early reader and ARC and apart of Izzy’s street team. The amount of work, love and tears that had gone into this beautifully written book shows !
It’s deep and heavy world building that doesn’t take away of the plot and interactions with the MCs it blends so well together you never missed a beat.
The relationships between the characters are angsty and beautifully bonded. It gives me big buffy the vampire slayer meets charmed and shadow hunters. With other books I read, The first few chapters give me a fair idea on whether I am going to love or hate it and I knew by chapter 3 it’s the one I’m gonna love and recommend till the cows come home.
More of the review will come as Its going to be long and it’s so hard to write one without spoiling 🥲
But if you have made it this far… read it please I know you’re going to love it!! 🙌🏻
May 12, 2025
This book horrifically plagiarized city of gods and monsters. The story, cover concept, and the characters are all copied, the blurb reads like it was copy pasted, and the map looks like it was traced….. this is BAD. I am shocked yall
Full review to come
Full review to come
July 6, 2025
I was given an arc of this book. I was unable to get into the story. I didn’t feel connected to the story and felt very bored. The start of the book wasn’t grabbing my attention. I wasn’t getting excited over what would happen next.
May 21, 2025
Whilst this book was very long including the first chapter with some errors but hey, she’s an indie author from what I’ve discovered and these things are inevitable, we are human. I think she’s done simply amazing just by getting her work out in the world and sharing something that she held close to her heart with us readers. I truely love Leila’s compassion and how much she will do for those she loves even at the expense of her own happiness. Grim is complicated in the sense he is so drawn to Leila yet doubts her feelings because of some mysterious connection and it’s beautiful to see him unfold before her and accept his feelings for her despite his own complications!! Very Mr Darcy coded if you ask me!!! Two thumbs up and can’t wait for the second book. ✨✨
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