Princess of Nothing

by Sofia Shab

In a city ruled by magic, what can one powerless girl do?

Brisa Farrahan has always stayed in the background—organizing protests for magical equality, watching her sister fight on the front lines of the rebellion, and grappling to find her place in a world, where Unenchanteds like her are dead weight.

But when her sister vanishes without a trace, Brisa is thrust into the heart of London’s magical underworld—where danger lurks behind every ballroom door, and one wrong move could expose her. To survive, she must ally with the rebellion’s deadliest Commander Ace Trivar, the evil king’s most ruthless enforcer.

He’s powerful. Unpredictable. And bound to her by something neither of them fully understands.

Now, trapped between gilded courts and burning secrets, Brisa finds herself pulled into a web of dark magic, vampire clubs, witch coven archives, and forbidden alliances. As war brews and betrayal inches closer, she must

Will she stay loyal to the cause that abandoned her… or to the enemy who sees her clearly for the first time?

Perfect for fans of City of Bones, The Bone Season, and From Blood and Ash, Princess of Nothing is a gothic urban fantasy romance about the price of power, messy loyalties, and what happens when the girl with no magic becomes the most dangerous player of all.

Genres: Romantasy, Fantasy, Magic

466 pages, Paperback

Published August 12, 2025

About the author

Sof is your usual Swiss-Persian Gen Z, who spends her days in the corporate world (corporate saddie alert!) and her nights weaving magic into words. Like any true creature of the night, she’s full of contrasts: a lover of both cute outfits and gothic lore, sunshine and shadows. Could she choose to live as one of the magical beings from her world, it would be as either a powerful witch or the rich wife of a vampire clan leader. In real life, she’s your average lover girl, who will always stand up fiercely for her loved ones.

Reviews

[elizabeth rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ In a world where magic means power… what happens when you have none? ✨

I devoured this book the moment I received the ARC — I was immediately hooked by the concept, the characters, and the promise of rebellion, danger, and forbidden magic.

🖤 Brisa is a human in a world ruled by the Enchanted — werewolves, witches, vampires, sirens, pyromancers… you name it. While the magical flaunt their dominance, the Unenchanted are pushed to the margins. But Brisa? She’s part of the resistance. A rebel. And when her sister Lupa disappears, Brisa breaks all the rules to go and find her — even if it means risking her life.

What follows is a high-stakes mission through the glittering shadows of Enchanted London — vampire clubs, dangerous alliances, secret missions, and reluctant partnerships that are deliciously tense.

⚔️ Found family
💋 Forbidden attraction
🧠 Political intrigue
🔥 One girl without magic, caught in a war between worlds

And YES — that cover is everything. 😍 I was addicted & finished this in one sitting.

PS — the cat is one of my fave characters, and I also LOVED the arc with Rio!! I really can't wait to see where the story goes next!

📚 Princess of Nothing is perfect for fans of rebellion, reluctant enemies-to-lovers, and fantasy stories that ask hard questions about privilege, resistance, and identity. I’m already counting down to the sequel!💫

[a foray in fantasy · Rating 4 out of 5]

THIS is enemies to lovers. There were so many tropes in this and they all worked for me. It's such a messy book in terms of character relationships, but it didn't feel contrived.

This was a shocking success of a debut novel! The synopsis does no justice to this book, but I don't want to give away too much more beyond that.

I was impressed by the character development with some of the characters, but not some of them. It did make some of the twists have less emotional weight, but still a very entertaining read.

Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Fab Mncci · Rating 5 out of 5]

update and a real review:

I’ll be honest—I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up this book. What I got was two days of total immersion, zero sleep (maybe not zero but definitely not enough), and a serious decline in productivity. And I regret NOTHING.

In a gritty, spell-soaked reimagining of London, where magic is law and being human is a death sentence, Princess of Nothing delivers a fantasy tale that is as captivating as it is haunting. This is not your typical battle of good versus evil—this is a story where lines blur, loyalties twist, and survival demands unthinkable choices.

At the heart of the story is Brisa, a fierce and resourceful human forced to navigate the glittering, cutthroat world of magical elites—the very system built to erase her kind. Disguised and desperate, she’s thrust into the world of the Loyalists, where danger lurks behind every calculated smile and whispered secret. Her mission is simple: stay alive and find her sister, Lupa. But nothing stays simple in a world where trust is a luxury and everyone hides more than they show.

The world building is lush and intricate, drawing you into alleys of rebellion, courts of manipulation, and a culture where power defines worth. Characters are brilliantly crafted—morally complex, emotionally layered, and constantly surprising. Just when you think you’ve figured someone out, the story throws a twist that forces you to reconsider everything.

Expect a slow-burn tension that sizzles with forbidden attraction, secrets buried beneath secrets, and a pace that never lets up. The plot grips from page one and refuses to loosen its hold until the final line.


This is the kind of book that lingers in your head long after you’ve turned the final page. And yes, it felt far too short—because a story this rich, this layered, and this addictive always ends too soon.

Book two can’t come fast enough.


*currently reading*



but WHAT AM I READING.. its Monday night at 00:21 and I can’t stop!

I just finished part one and i can tell you: this book got me completely hooked. The characters are really well developed and the world so far is so nicely built. Part one nicely shows what kind of person our MC Brisa is and what motivates her. I really can feel with her and her frustration of being who she is.

I cant wait to read more and finish the next parts in this book.


—-> also there is a cat ❤️

[Heather]

I will not be rating this one, as I stopped 33 pages in. Soooo, I cannot tell you how often in my reading groups I see women complaining about FMC’s being young. They don’t want to read about an 18-22 year old girl— blah blah blah. But you have cases like this where the author says the FMC is 27, then proceeds to have her talk about posters on her wall of her favorite bands, complain about her sister taking her clothes, and demonstrates her rebelling against her mother and her mother’s wishes— complete with bickering and storming off and all! At TWENTY frickin’ SEVEN years old! I can forgive this type of behavior from someone younger, but not someone of her age. Because whereas this behavior might suit the structure of what the author’s envisioned this story to be, 27 year old women don’t behave like this. So then one has to ask oneself, does it really matter what age the author tells you the character is or whether or not you can respect the behavior of the character and how they interact with other characters and situations within the text??? Quite frankly I don’t care how old or young the characters are, as long as their behavior is appropriate and as long as the story comes together as a whole in a compelling way. I don’t have to see myself in a character in order to enjoy reading about their love story. After all, it’s THEIR romance, not mine. 🤷‍♀️
Anyway, I’ll shut up about that. I’d also like to caution potential readers that not only does this story jump right into talk about the “rebellion” and equality between “Enchanteds” and “Unenchanteds” without first explaining it, but also without making you care about it too. Which, in my humble opinion, is not a good idea. I have to care about “the cause” too and not just because you, as the author, TELL me to right off the rip.

This just felt very young adult, while adamantly trying to declare that it wasn’t— which ironically just added even more to the feeling of it being young adult. It’s just not for me.

[Selene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cover absolutely sucked me in! It’s drop dead gorgeous and the story sounded really interested , it’s the exact opposite of the perfect all powerful can do no wrong fmc. And that was a breath of fresh air. The pacing was really good and grabbed me in the begging but slogged down a bit in the middle before picking back up. There’s a lot going on relationship wise and I’m curious to see what happens book two. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the arc

[sabutcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader – and wow, I loved this book so much. The story, the characters, the world, the magic – all of it. It’s getting harder to find good romantasy that doesn’t feel „too young“, but this book definitely does the trick. I found myself thinking about it all the time between reading sessions.

The characters are complex, and they’re all just trying to find their place in the world, which makes their struggles feel very relatable. The story is also a wild ride, full of unexpected twists and turns at every possible corner.

And although I loved many of the characters and creatures that appear throughout the story, my favorite has to be beautiful Beau (with Belial as a close second). The scenes with Ace and Brisa riding Beau through the darkness and talking about things they wouldn’t dare to otherwise hold a special place in my heart.

All in all, this is a 10/10 recommendation from me, and I’m very excited to see where Sofia Shab is going to take us next.

Sofia, this is an incredible debut and I‘m rooting for you!!!

[schwarzweisszauber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a fantasy girlie but when I say you need to read this book, I mean you NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!

Princess of Nothing by Sofia Shab is one of those rare novels that lingers long after the final page—an intimate, aching portrait of a girl trying to make sense of her own silence, her fractured identity, and the world that keeps insisting on defining her. Shab’s storytelling is razor-sharp yet poetically soft, weaving a narrative that feels both vulnerable and defiantly powerful.

At its heart, the novel is about transformation: the painful unraveling of a girl who has spent her life being treated like an accessory in someone else’s kingdom. Shab captures this emotional journey with exquisite nuance. Her prose is lush without ever feeling overwrought; she knows exactly when to cut deep and when to let the quiet speak for itself. The imagery is vivid, cinematic even, yet grounded in a raw honesty that makes every moment feel lived-in.

The characters are beautifully drawn, especially the protagonist, whose inner world pulses with longing, anger, tenderness, and a fierce desire to reclaim her own narrative. She is flawed in the most human way, and it’s impossible not to root for her. The supporting cast only enriches the story further, each serving as a mirror that reveals yet another layer of the heroine’s internal struggle.

What makes Princess of Nothing truly exceptional is Shab’s command of emotional tension. She navigates themes of identity, power, self-worth, and resilience with sensitivity and depth, never resorting to clichés or simplifying the complexity of her characters. The book is not afraid to be quiet, and in that quietness it becomes thunderously powerful.

This is the kind of novel that speaks especially to readers who have ever felt invisible, underestimated, or forced into roles they never chose. It’s a book that whispers, You are allowed to want more. You are allowed to be more.

Sofia Shab has crafted an unforgettable, soul-stirring story—one that deserves to be read, shared, and remembered!

I couldn’t be prouder of the author—someone I’m grateful and honored to call my longtime friend. 🫶🏼

[Ilia · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review – "Princess of Nothing" by Sofia Shab. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sofia Shab’s debut Princess of Nothing is a refreshing and amazingly plotted addition to the romanatsy genre, blending urban fantasy with courtly intrigue!

It took me a few chapters to get into it, but from the moment they try to enter the palace, I was hooked. The pacing is *chef's kiss*! Every 10% or so, the story peels back another layer, revealing twists and shifting alliances. The urban fantasy setting adds a modern edge to the high-stakes politics, which I appreciated, since most books of the same genre are set in a more historical world.

The main character is someone you can root for but still a complex character who moves in various greyzones. I also loved the way POVs shifted just enough to give depth to the wider world without losing the thread of the story. Frankie, as a secondary female lead, brings a grounded, witty energy that complements the FMC perfectly. And Belial? Easily a highlight—especially if you're a cat person (or even just cat-adjacent).

Some smaller aspects, that I enjoyed less were that while the prose is often nicely descriptive, it occasionally made it harder to keep track of the more intricate plot elements. Also, the romantic chemistry didn’t quite land for me - but that’s a personal preference and might hit differently for other readers!

In conclusion: A stellar debut! Rich with political intrigue, a tightly woven plot, and memorable characters. Highly recommended for fans of A Darker Shade of Magic and anyone looking for a fresh voice in the romanatsy space.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC without knowing much about it and picked it up during a pretty intense reading slump. At first, it took me a while to truly get into the story and connect with the characters—but looking back, I’m convinced that had more to do with my slump than with the book itself. Because once it got me, it really got me. At some point, I simply couldn’t put it down anymore. And if you’ve ever been in a major slump, you’ll know��that’s no small accomplishment.

The story follows Brisa, a clever and fiercely loyal human in a world where nearly everyone but her possesses magic. Outside the rebellion, being non-magical isn’t just rare—it’s outlawed, making life dangerous and precarious for someone like Brisa. When her sister vanishes, Brisa sets out to find her—and is quickly swept into a web of conspiracies, difficult choices, dangerous desires, and a cast of richly drawn, wonderfully flawed characters.

This book delivered on everything I love in a fantasy: a compelling magical system, slow burn enemies-to-lovers tension, political intrigue, a vividly imagined world, a strong FMC with real growth, and a deliciously brooding MMC to balance her out.

I already can’t wait for the sequel to find out what Brisa and her crew get themselves into next.

P.S. My favorite character? Without a doubt: the cat. I just wish we’d gotten more of him.

[Sara Pappalardo · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If I could give this book 6 stars, I would…

I adored this book so much—it was such a refreshing change after reading a lot of epic fantasy lately. From the very first chapter, the story had me hooked and didn’t let go. It was probably one of my first forays into urban fantasy, and I loved it!

It’s got all my favourite tropes—banter, tension, unlikely alliances—and Ace quickly became a standout for me. The chemistry, the danger, the mystery? Perfection. Brisa was such a compelling main character, and her voice pulled me right into the heart of the story. Watching her navigate London’s intricate magical underworld was such a ride, especially with all the layers of dark magic, vampire clubs, and witch covens.

The worldbuilding is rich and layered, full of political intrigue and magical detail that made the setting feel alive. The stakes felt high throughout, and I was constantly wondering who Brisa could trust.

And the fact that this is a debut? Honestly, I’m in awe. I cannot wait for book two because I need more Brisa and Ace immediately.

If you love urban fantasy with immersive worldbuilding, high stakes, and characters you’ll want to follow anywhere—this one’s for you.

[Sarah Mclennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did but omg it was so good! The world is dark and gritty — magic runs everything, and humans like Brisa are basically treated like trash. But she’s a fighter. She’s part of the resistance and goes straight into enemy territory to find her missing sister. She doesn’t have magic, but she’s smart and scrappy and I loved her for it.

It gave enemies to lovers vibes, secret missions, rebellion, and so much tension — like, actual tension where you don’t know who to trust and everyone’s hiding something. The whole London-with-magic setting was done so well and felt super real.

Also the cat?? Iconic. And I’m really curious about Rio and Franka — I hope they show up more in the next one.

It’s fast-paced, twisty, a little dark, and really clever. If you’re into stories with rebellion, politics, secret identities, and a bit of slow burn, defs give this a go. Can’t wait for the sequel.

Thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

[Karla Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Princess of Nothing in one day — partly because the story moves fast, and partly because I couldn’t stop thinking about what would happen next. Brisa is a powerless girl in a city built on magic, and her perspective gives this dark world so much depth. She makes mistakes, she’s stubborn, and she’s constantly caught between survival and rebellion.

The writing is detailed without feeling heavy. The world feels lived-in — vampire clubs, whispered uprisings, and the sense that every favor costs something. I really enjoyed how complex the relationships were, especially between Brisa and Ace. Their dynamic had tension, and enemies to lovers feels but it wasn’t forced or predictable.

A few scenes could’ve lingered a bit longer to let big moments breathe, but overall this was a strong start to what I hope becomes a series. Gritty, emotional, and quietly dangerous — Princess of Nothing stayed with me long after I finished it.

[Gabby S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you that I have no words to describe how absolutely wonderful this book was, I could NOT put this down. This is Sofia Shab’s debut novel and I am so impressed with this book. Brisa is our main character who is an Unenchanted aka human and is living in a world where having magic means everything. After her sister (Lupa) disappears, Brisa goes in search of her outside of the rebellion and into London. From there, we start on a wild ride and meet so many characters. Brisa is a force to reckoned with and I loved the relationships that she forms with Frankie and Greer. There are MESSY relationships in this, everyone is very entangled with each other but it is so good to read. I truly cannot wait for book two to come out so I can continue to see where Brisa’s journey will take us!

Also, Belial is everything to me.

Thank you to Sofia Shab and NetGalley for this eARC!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing read. I absolutely love my fantasy and romantasy, but sometimes the genre can feel a bit repetitive. This was not that. This book felt completely different from the usual fare.

The characters are so well developed, and the uncertainty around the love interest kept me on my toes the entire time. Sofia Shab does an incredible job of maintaining tension and intrigue.

What really stood out to me was how well the book explores the grey areas of life…nothing is purely black or white. Every character brings their own perspective, shaped by personal experience, and you can feel that in how they’re written.

The political dynamics were also handled beautifully. They’re layered, compelling, and never heavy-handed it was just perfectly woven into the story.

Honestly, this is such an impressive debut. I can’t wait to see what Sofia Shab does next.

[Kristie Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was really interesting, but I felt like it really didn't come together much. Brisa is the only human left in this area, and her life now depends on a tie to a ruthless creature - Ace. He would sooner see her dead, but he's forced to protect her because of an ancient bond neither one of them wants.

Searching for her sister has landed her in enemy territory, and she is lucky to be alive. Still fighting to free her friends, she's trying to work with Ace and survive despite everyone else pretty much wanting to kill her. The resolution was a little bit confusing and I'm not sure if there is going to be another book, but I would read more.

[Sandrine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book. This urban fantasy set in London was really well done and you’re immersed in this world as soon as the story starts. The pace is really fast which I enjoyed. The forbidden/ennemies to lover vibes that Brisa and Ace had was really good. I really liked Franka’s character and hope to get more of her. This story did not go where I thought it would, but it was still very nice. Lots of action and political intrigues. There’s still so much to explore in this world and I will definitely pick up the sequel!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book!

[jazful · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a ride! A truly spectacular and fast-paced adventure from beginning to end.

I had the pleasure of reading this book as an ARC reader and this was actually my first real dive into a fantasy world (I don’t usually read fantasy) but I’m so glad I took the leap.

What I loved most was how quickly the story picks up speed. There’s no slow build-up; you’re thrown right into the action, and even within the first few pages, important things are already happening. The characters are written with such depth and attention to detail that it almost feels like you’re watching a movie rather than reading a book.

Even more impressive is the fact that this is the author’s debut novel. And what a debut! The writing, the world-building, the pacing are all absolutely flawless. I’m already counting the days until the sequel drops.

This book has everything a fantasy lover could hope for: magical creatures, vampires, werewolves, witches, oracles; all woven into a rich, vivid dark world that comes to life on every page. But what makes it stand out even more is the way it uses fantasy not just to entertain, but to reflect.

Running beneath the action-packed plot is a strong political undercurrent. The story engages with themes like imperialist and dictatorial power structures, the persecution of rebels, systemic injustice, and the raw struggle to survive. We see it all through the eyes of Brisa, the protagonist, as she slowly realizes that the world isn’t as black-and-white as it once seemed. That people living under oppressive regimes are not the regime itself: they are human beings, often with dissenting views, simply trying to survive and navigate a reality they didn’t choose. This nuance is powerful and incredibly timely, given the state of global politics.

And lastly, I just want to say: isn’t it refreshing to read a fantasy book (that truly deserves to become a hype) that isn’t written by one of the Zionist authors dominating the current fantasy trends (you see her political stance on her instagram page)? We love that.
It’s empowering to support a writer who looks at oppression with a sharp, critical eye and who, if she gains the large audience she deserves, will not use that reach to justify or normalize genocide, as we’ve unfortunately seen from others in the genre lately.
This book reminds us that fantasy can be thrilling, politically aware, and responsible – all at the same time.

[Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Urban romantasy with heavy action, mystery and an interesting quest.
The story takes you on an adventure through a well written fantasy world with lot's of great characters. It's a slow-burn enemies to lovers romance with great chemistry between the maincharcters.

I'm not allways into urban fantasy but this twisted world of London was very fun.

A thanks to Booksirens for the ARC

[Casie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Sofia Shab for the opportunity to ARC read this book.

Enemies to “lovers” to enemies?
Multiple weird love triangles?
Magic and morally gray characters?
Sign. Me. Up.

Princess of Nothing captured my attention right away and although the middle slowed down a bit too much for me, the ending came back with a vengeance and left me wanting the second installment NOW!

Team Rio - sorry, not sorry.

[Val]

I really liked the darker tone and the emotional depth. it’s clear that Sofia Shab poured a lot into this. the story touches on trauma, survival, messy, complicated relationships, and a lot of moral and political questions which I love. and the main character? definitely someone I was rooting for, even when I didn’t always agree with her.

but at the same time, I struggled with the pacing. some scenes dragged, others felt rushed, and I wish a few of the side characters had more depth. the writing is very poetic, which I appreciated at first, but sometimes it leaned a bit too dramatic for me and pulled me out of the moment.

that said, there were parts that hit hard emotionally, and I think someone who enjoys character-driven stories with a darker edge will really connect with this one more than I did. I've had a good time with it nonetheless!

[Yasmin · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A gripping, imaginative read.

Thank you to NetGalley for an eArc of this book.

Princess of Nothing pulls you into a vast, mysterious world full of potential. The plot is original and fast-paced, though the frequent POV shifts made it a bit tricky to keep track of all the characters.

My favorite character was Frankie—complex, so cool, and a real standout in the story for me. Would love to see more of her in any sequels(?)

The world-building is rich but left me wanting more background but only because it was so interesting. A prequel would be amazing to explore how everything came to be.

Overall, a compelling story that makes me excited to read more in this universe.

[Kaat SweetOnStories · Rating 5 out of 5]

Long Story Short

In this thrilling urban fantasy debut, author Sofia Shab carefully introduces complex characters as they navigate constantly shifting loyalties and challenging relationships. Featuring a stunning slowburn mating bond between enemies, this book is full of gentle moments which will appeal to romance readers, and to those who also like to read about royal court intrigue, rebellion and the true meaning of power. Part one of a series, Shab successfully sets the stage for exciting future story-telling.

Short Story Long

How to woo your new soulmate: you don't. Brisa is human, and a rebel - and therefor Acardian "Ace" Trivar's enemy in each and every way. As First Commander of the Astor regime and the King's primary enforcer, being shackled to an Unenchanted is a liability. 
New plan: How to kill your new soul-bonded: you can't, as in: you literally are not able to, so you dump her in a forest for a couple of days, thinking its hidden dangers will do the job for you. But Ace has thoroughly underestimated his pretty new soulmate: Brisa picked up some grit over the years, having grown up in the rebellion.
In this thrilling urban fantasy set in contemporary London, Ace and Brisa realize they're stuck in an impossible situation, and decide to team up. Ace needs her to woo parliament; Brisa needs him not to kill friends of hers (and her cat) that he's keeping imprisoned. Unbeknownst to him, she uses her new position at his side to try to learn what happened to her sister Lupa, a rebellion agent who went missing during one of her undercover missions. For the first time in her life, Brisa feels like she has a purpose, having the unique opportunity to really make a difference, unlike in the Rebellion where she was often overlooked - a mere human, magicless, Unenchanted. And even though he's her worst enemy, at least Ace actually (finally) sees her.

Did you say "enemies-and-they-actually-want-to-kill-each-other-but-can't-to-lovers"? Yes please! 
Did you say "mate trope featuring scenting AND sensing the other"? Oh-
Did you say "actual slowburn and literal pyromancy"?
FIRE.

If the book didn't already have me at either of those, it had me at "the MMC is a powerful (but misunderstood) hellfire-daddy with a name I can't say ten times fast or slow". Ace and Brisa's dynamic is smashing from the start, their soul-knot coming into effect as soon as they meet - as they fight, Ace is stunned to discover he can't kill her. Brisa is considered weak by everyone else, regardless which side they're on, but that couldn't be further from the truth. She's far from helpless, but a rather capable character, with skills in coding and hacking, which she utilizes several times throughout the book. Not only that, but Brisa's determination and defiance are some of her greatest weapons, throwing Ace off his game several times, and that is a delicious place for them to be.

Sofia Shab shows the gradual, mutual shift in their feelings for each other quite beautifully by giving them several intimate scenes that aren't spicy, but swoonworthy and sexy on another level: through proximity and trust, both of them are comfortable being naked around each other while caretaking or simply unwinding. Their willingness to be at their most vulnerable with each other physically - with ease - shows the reader how much potential they have as a couple once they go deeper. I absolutely loved this approach, mixed in with moments of genuine softening towards each other.

Of course, it being a mate bond book, there is also some primal behavior, mostly seen in Ace's possessiveness when Brisa begins to get close to another male lead, Rio. I'm not too bothered by the other man drama - there's even a third man vying for Brisa's attention, her childhood love Wolf (who, incidentally, is one of the rebels held captive by Ace). Yes, it gives us more drama, but to me the other men in her life only demonstrate how "not Ace" they are. Ultimately, in Brisa's mind, Ace is forbidden, despite the soul knot, and it's understandable that she with her new sense of empowerment gravitates towards options that don't mess with her morals quite as much. But they also become a sort of mirror to how intense a soul knot bond is, and how hard it is to fight that, the men representing the choice Brisa has to make not just in love but in life: Ace is the one she shouldn't love. Rio is the one who's easy to love. And Wolf is the one she loved before her life got so very messy - and when life gets intense, the familiar is a comfort.

As for Ace, Brisa's messy dalliances reveal an almost tender vulnerability to him, rather than the brutal claiming behavior often associated with mate bonds. He's a fascinating MMC in my opinion, and we've barely scratched the surface.

Shab writes very complex relationships - and characters; we see that in how she writes her villains as well as her good guys. No one is one-dimensional. The good guys are dubious, some bad guys have redemptive qualities that truly intrigue me (and pleasantly surprise me). Brisa herself even makes some questionable choices, caught between loyalties and the longing to be valued. Shab's creative decision to tell the story from multiple third person perspectives is perfection, because it allows the reader to really be immersed in the intrigue, the scheming. You know how much characters leave each other in the dark.

Several major plot twists aren't surprising, which I believe is perhaps a conscious decision by Shab. It drives home how trust between these characters isn't yet earned. The mystery isn't in identities, but in motivations. In a way, we're almost lulled into a false sense of security, believing we've got this book all figured out, and then Shab comes out and drops a few real bombs mixed in with some nuggets that kind of sneak in there and linger in the back of your mind - for future reference. It makes me excited to see what's next, and if my hunches are correct or not. I just like it when authors believe their readers will pick up on these things. (This approach benefits the romance, too, the reader catching on to Ace's deeper feelings early on - we get yearn, y'all. And it's so, so good.)

Another great creative decision, is a secondary plot featuring another female lead, Frankie (who may be getting her own enemies-to-lovers romance in future installments - gah, I hope so). It helps that she's a character the reader automatically sympathizes with, someone we can really get behind and want to read about... while giving Brisa's character room to have that aforementioned bit of questionability. Frankie's actions and discoveries will likely add more (good) tension in future books. But mostly, giving Frankie a distinct storyline helps us to manage the world Shab is building: it keeps the reader from being too overwhelmed, which we would have been had everything happened to just Brisa.

There's court intrigue and rebellion. It's got a prophecy and corruption. It's got a talking cat and secret agents. There's a mystery surrounding a disappearance and there are plot-forward events steeped in brutal violence. Yes, it sounds jam-packed, but it all works. There is no simplistic Good versus Evil in this book, not really. There are so many magical beings with plays and stakes of their own. Additional parties are slowly revealed, sneaking up on us. Dynamics shift, loyalties change. The reader is kept on their toes, the stage set for some promising further story-telling, and I already can't wait to read everything.

Thank you, Sofia Shab via Booksirens, for generously providing me with a copy of this book; all opinions expressed are honest, voluntary and 100% my own.

[Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

🪻’How could power not be a blessing, if it made you something more? Especially when of Brisa’s deepest, oldest desires was to wield it, just once.’🪻

WOW I LOVED THIS BOOK!!! If I could rate this book 6 stars I would- this is honestly one of my favourite books that I have read, and I am an avid romantasy/fantasy reader!! I honestly can’t believe that this is Sofia Shab’s debut book- it is written so beautifully and I adored the characters and the world. It has everything I could hope for in a romantasy book. It makes me extremely happy to know there is going to be further books in this series, because I NEED more!!

Brisa Farrahan has always felt like she doesn’t belong. Living as a magicless Unenchanted, one of the last of her kind, in a city governed by magic, she has always struggled to find her place in the rebellion. She spends her time trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible- aside from organising the occasional protest for quality for non-magical beings like herself, she waits from the sidelines for her werewolf sister to return from missions, dreaming to harness even a sliver of the power that she does. Until one day, her sister is sent on a mission and vanishes without a trace. After others in the rebellion, her friends and even her own mother, who happens to be the rebellion’s Commander, refuse to tell her any information about her sudden disappearance, she decides to take it upon herself to find her sister on her own. Her mission leads her into London’s shadowed heart, where the truth of her true magicless identity being revealed would undoubtedly get her killed. There, her path becomes intertwined not only with vampires, witches, sirens and other powerful magical beings, but also with the king’s most deadliest weapon of all- Commander Ace Trivar, the dark, mysterious and not to mention incomprehensibly powerful man known for his reputation of, amongst other things, killing Unenchanteds hiding in his kingdom. If her mission wasn’t already hard enough, she becomes mysteriously bound to Ace in a way neither of them understands. Brisa must find her sister, learn who to trust and what to fight for, all whilst somehow keeping her identity hidden to the world.

🪻‘Her whole life, people had overlooked her, ignored her. They had tucked her into a corner and pacified her with the promise of safety. But now, far from that reality, she would make him listen. If just this once.’🪻

I loved the characters in this book! Brisa is such a special character- I love how she fights for what she believes in, even when others make it incredibly difficult for her to, push her down and make a point of reminding her how she has no magic in a world that values it. Even in extreme hardships, in a place completely out of her comfort zone and against the most ‘powerful’ people, she doesn’t relent. I love that she is incredibly intelligent and has put her time into learning things like how to code, finding her own purpose- showing power comes in a variety of ways. I also loved her found friendships between Frankie and Greer- it was heartwarming seeing her find friends and feel like she belonged and I loved that they were one of the few Enchanted’s that came to accept her for who she is.

There was also SO SO much romantic tension in this book 😩 there were so many moments throughout the where you find yourself questioning who Brisa will end up with in the end, who she will end up trusting out of her 3 admirers, all who have different qualities and bond with her over different things. I honestly liked all of her potential love interests, so I feel like at different points I was honestly rooting for each of them. 😂 There are SO many tense moments of betrayals- I feel like I felt so many emotions reading this book, and I loved it!

🪻’If beauty were plain, then I wouldn’t know what to call you Brisa Brown. Because you are anything but simple or plain. You’re overwhelmingly consuming and impossible to ignore.’🪻

This book had all of the, in my opinion, best and my most favourite tropes and micro tropes- forbidden love, slow burn, love triangles, forced proximity to name a few, and the ‘who did this to you?’ trope which I am a sucker for. Also, lots that I didn’t know I needed! 😆

100000% give this book a read- I already CAN’T WAIT to see more from these characters and this world! It is everything you could want in a great romantasy. Princess of Nothing is set to be published on 12th August!

Thank you very much to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book early, and for helping me find one of my new favourite books 💗

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Sofia Shab for the ARC!

In a city ruled by magic, Brisa stands apart, magicless, restless, and increasingly disillusioned with a world that sidelines those like her. She’s a protestor, an agitator, and someone waiting for her sister to return home. But when that sister vanishes, Brisa’s path collides with the city’s darker side, and with it comes a bond to someone she never expected: Commander Ace Trivar, the king’s weapon and enforcer.

Caught in a web of shifting loyalties, dangerous politics, and temptations she can’t ignore, Brisa’s fight for answers drags her into a dangerous game—one where betrayal, forbidden attraction, and the cost of survival all intertwine.

The blurb promises rebellion, flawed heroines, forbidden romance, and a world full of witches, vampires, and magic and it delivers on many of those fronts!

⸻

What Worked Well

1. Characters with Range

• Brisa: She’s flawed, reckless, sometimes frustrating, but all the better for it. Her imperfections give her real weight and make her a heroine you can actually invest in.

• Frankie: A standout. Her chapters were some of the most enjoyable, especially watching her fight free from a toxic ex. There’s something deeply satisfying about her hard-earned independence.

• Rio: The heartbreak of the book. Their dynamic with Brisa was compelling, so the betrayal twist hit hard. Sometimes pain = good storytelling!


2. The Twist at the End

While much of the story followed a predictable rhythm, the ending pulled the rug out from under me. That final twist made me sit up straighter and got me genuinely excited for where the series might go next. It’s the kind of hook that justifies continuing with book two.

3. A Solid Foundation

The story has a strong setup—magic vs. non-magic, rebellion simmering under the surface, morally gray characters. The ingredients are all there, and while it isn’t groundbreaking, it does deliver an enjoyable reading experience.

⸻

Where It Fell Short

• Predictability
While the twist was excellent, much of the journey there felt easy to anticipate. The structure follows familiar beats without taking big risks, which meant some of the tension was lost.

• Pacing & Length
The prose is solid, but there’s no denying that some chapters dragged. A tighter edit would have kept the momentum stronger, especially in the middle sections where things sometimes slowed to a crawl.

• Uneven Character Dynamics
For every engaging character (Brisa, Frankie), there were those who fell flat (Wolf) or disappointed (Rio, thanks to the betrayal). The inconsistency left me a little whiplashed in terms of investment.

• Wolf: Simply unlikeable. Every appearance was grating, and not in a fun “love to hate” way.

⸻

The Writing

Sofia Shab’s writing is descriptive and competent, with immersive worldbuilding that helps ground the setting. That said, it occasionally tips into being long-winded, which slowed the pace. A bit more “show” and a little less “tell” could have elevated the prose to something sharper and more urgent.

⸻

Final Thoughts

Princess of Nothing is a solid opener to The Soul Weaver Chronicles. While it’s not without flaws, predictable beats, uneven pacing, and a few character frustrations, it still offers enough heart, drama, and intrigue to make the ride worthwhile.

Brisa’s messy resilience, Frankie’s independence, and that killer ending twist left me invested enough to want to see where the story heads in book two. It may not reinvent the YA fantasy wheel, but it spins it with enough energy to keep readers entertained.

👉 Final Verdict: A mixed but enjoyable read. If you love flawed heroines, messy dynamics, and don’t mind a story that takes its time, this one is worth checking out.

My Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

[Valerie Van de Vyver · Rating 3 out of 5]

Since this was my first time as an ARC reader, I wanted to give this book an in-depth review, so strap in because you’re in for a ride. As my first language isn’t English, some sentences may be worded a bit awkwardly or oddly.
Needless to say, this review contains SPOILERS!!!

First things first. The cover? Pure perfection. Absolutely beautiful! Round of applause for the cover designer, they did a wonderful job.

The premise of the story was very promising and made me very eager to start reading.
The first few chapters were fast-paced and really pulled me into the story. I didn’t dislike any of the characters, but I didn’t feel connected to them either. There was no chemistry between Brisa and Wolf, which I didn’t expect (or want) because I was waiting for Ace Trivar to make his first appearance. When he finally did, I liked the build-up in his first few chapters. He’s broody, mysterious, and a bit of a villain, just how I like them. Unfortunately, he didn’t meet up to my expectations in the rest of the story.

We also meet Frankie, who quickly became my favorite female character in the story and often overshadowed the female lead Brisa with her wit, raw emotions and elegance.

Somewhere around chapter seventeen, the story got hard to follow for me. There was a lot of descriptive writing, metaphors, and comparisons that made it difficult to focus on what was happening in the scenes. Because of this, I disconnected from the story until I reached the last few chapters, which is unfortunate because I do think the story is well thought out, but there’s too much happening at once and things are described so in detail that I just lost focus.

The final ten chapters pulled me back into the story, and I have to say, I was on the edge of my seat for the most part. Loved it when Brisa finally found her strength (for which she had to die first, lol) and loved it when it was revealed that Belial (prince of demons??) is Brisa’s brother!

Something that didn’t sit right with me throughout the story was how Brisa swooned over every man who gave her an inkling of attention. Wolf (who never believed in her, and in the final chapters didn’t even want to look at her), Ace (who was hot and cold throughout the whole story), and Rio (who was doing way too much, making it a bit obvious that he had an ulterior motive)
I didn’t feel like she had real chemistry with any of them, which was also a let-down. I didn’t root for any of them and was SO DISAPPOINTED in the last paragraph of the book. Girl, fuck these men and choose yourself!!

Overall, I liked this book because, as I said before, it was well thought out and managed to make me laugh out loud multiple times. The romance just didn’t romance for me, the male leads didn’t convince me at all, and the female lead was a bit all over the place with her thoughts and feelings, which I can excuse given her situation.

Would love to read a sequel because, despite all of the above, I truly am invested in the story!

[Stina Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy hell, this book devoured me.
Listen, I live for romantasy. Give me magic, slow burns, and enough emotional tension to wreck my sleep schedule, and I’m happy. But even I’ll admit, it’s a genre that can sometimes feel like déjà vu with a new cover. Princess of Nothing? Not that. Not even close. This one doesn’t just step outside the box, it burns it to ash.
Sofia Shab, in her debut no less, delivers a world that hums with tension and moral complexity. Everything, characters, politics, relationships, is painted in shades of gray. There are no saints here, and I love that. Every choice feels earned. Every betrayal hits deep. And the romantic tension? It’s so thick it could cut glass.
Let’s talk Brisa Farrahan. She’s one of the last Unenchanteds in a kingdom drunk on magic, trying to survive in the shadow of a rebellion she’s barely allowed to participate in. And when her werewolf sister goes missing, Brisa does what every underestimated girl with a fire in her chest does: she goes straight into the lion’s den. Into London’s underworld of sirens, witches, vampires, and one very deadly Commander Ace Trivar, who’s basically the kingdom’s most feared weapon in a tailored coat.
Their connection? Electric. Unpredictable. Dangerous. And also accidentally magical in a way neither of them sees coming.
What I loved most about Brisa is that she doesn’t get her power handed to her. She fights for it, tooth and nail. Her magic isn’t flashy, it’s grit and coding and relentless hope when everyone tells her she’s nothing. And through it all, she still finds space for friendship (Frankie and Greer = wholesome gold), loyalty, and the aching vulnerability of wanting to matter.
Now let’s talk romance, because oof. Shab doesn’t hand you a clear “team” to root for. She gives you three love interests, all with wildly different energies, and makes you feel for every one of them. One page you’re swearing by Ace, the next you’re side-eyeing someone else with equal parts suspicion and thirst. Betrayals, near-kisses, trust issues, and that “who did this to you?” moment, yeah, my soul is no longer intact.
Tropes? You want tropes? This book is a buffet: forbidden love, enemies to lovers, slow burn, love triangle, forced proximity, found family, plus a few lesser-used gems I didn’t even know I needed. And somehow, it all works. Nothing feels forced or formulaic.
If you’re looking for your next obsession, the kind of book that hijacks your brain and makes everything else feel dull by comparison, Princess of Nothing is it. I still can’t believe this was a debut. It’s dark, immersive, romantic, and has that spark of something new.
August 12th cannot come fast enough. I’m begging the book gods: give us more Brisa. More Ace. More everything.

[Moonburst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic-less Brisa has grown up in the resistance, trying to advocate for the rights of the Unenchanted and help thwart the evil king's plans. When her sister goes missing after a dangerous solo mission, Brisa refuses to be left out of the rescue mission. Unfortunately, the mission goes awry and she finds herself at the mercy of the king's most dangerous enforcer, Commander Ace Trivar. But Ace finds himself unable to kill Brisa due to a mysterious soul bond. Can Brisa determine who to trust and find her sister?

Princess of Nothing takes place in an alternate world where a evil king has outlawed people without magic and has a plan for world domination. Everyone has their own personal agenda, making it difficult to know what exactly each character is working for. There is an interesting hierarchy between the different types of magical powers as well as a hierarchy of strength. The book's world building is excellent, and was one of my favorite parts of the story.

Unfortunately, I did not like Brisa very much, as she seems to be fairly flakey and thoughtless. She's supposed to be looking for her sister, but her efforts are easily thwarted, and she quickly appears to forget about her. When it becomes clear that she is missing memories of a significant part of her life, she choses to ignore everything, rather than investigate her own past. Furthermore, her current depth of connection to other characters seems to change with the wind. She's suddenly close to Greer after they've apparently talked twice, and decides she's in love with Rio, despite knowing nothing of him. The only relationship that really made sense was Brisa's friendship with Frankie.

Brisa's relationship with Ace is understandably tumultuous. Between Ace's attempts to kill her and his obvious determination to manipulate and use her, there's not much for Brisa to trust. However, later in the book, preventing his death is her sole reason for a major decision. It would have been better if a little more work had been done to show a growing connection between the two, especially from Brisa's point of view, to make this plot point more poignant and inspiring. Instead, it just seems convenient.

Despite Brisa's ever-changing emotional connections, she does make some solid inroads in overcoming the prejudice and derision she has internalized. I can't wait to see where the series goes as she continues to grow in her confidence and capabilities.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dayna Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Arc Review✨

Thank you to the author Sofia Shab And Netgallery for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

-All thoughts and opinions are my own.


A Gripping Tale of Magic, Rebellion, and Heartfelt Defiance

From the very first page, Princess of Nothing by Sofia Shab drew me into a rich, complex world where magic is the ultimate currency — and those without it, like our fierce heroine Brisa, are left struggling to survive on the fringes of society. What I loved most about this story is how it blends high-stakes political intrigue with deeply personal stakes, creating a narrative that’s as thrilling as it is emotional.

Brisa is a character who immediately grabbed my attention. A human in a world dominated by powerful Enchanted beings — werewolves, witches, vampires, and more — she’s part of an underground resistance determined to challenge the status quo. When her sister Lupa mysteriously disappears, Brisa doesn’t hesitate to risk everything, even if it means breaking the law and walking into dangerous territory. Her courage and fierce loyalty make her a heroine you can’t help but root for.

The setting of Enchanted London is vividly imagined — a dark, glittering city filled with vampire clubs, secret alliances, and the constant tension of a society on the brink of rebellion. The world-building is meticulous without ever feeling overwhelming, allowing the story to flow smoothly while keeping the stakes high.

One of the most captivating elements is the slow-burn romance between Brisa and Rafe, a charming con man with a complicated past. Their relationship is layered with tension, reluctant trust, and undeniable chemistry that adds an irresistible emotional depth to the story. I especially loved the dynamic between them — it’s messy, realistic, and filled with moments that made me both swoon and cheer.

Beyond the romance and adventure, Princess of Nothing also explores important themes of privilege, resistance, and identity. The tension between the magical elite and the disenfranchised Unenchanted is palpable, making the story not just entertaining but thought-provoking.

And let’s not forget the delightful cat — a small but memorable character who adds just the right touch of whimsy and charm.

The book wraps up with plenty of hooks for the sequel, and I’m already counting down the days to see what happens next. Whether you’re a fan of dark fantasy, rebellious heroines, or enemies-to-lovers romance, Princess of Nothing is a must-read that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

[Satviki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Princess of Nothing is a rich book full of adventure and magic - despite the main character possessing none. With stunning worldbuilding and lovely characters, this story is a wonderful debut. In fact, after finishing PoN, I was honestly surprised that it was a debut novel.

Let's start with the worldbuilding. PoN is primarily set in an alternative London inhabited by a variety of magical beings called the Enchanted, along with the humans (also known as the Unenchanted). While the Enchanted of London - at least most of them - thrive under the rule of the Astor King, the Unenchanted are hunted. Brisa (our protagonist) is an Unenchanted herself, which as you can probably imagine, leads to plenty of conflict. The Enchanted do have a reason to hate and fear the Unenchanted considering their history, though it does not justify their genocide. The concept of the oppressed turning on their oppressors and becoming oppressors themselves is a pretty intriguing part of this world's history, one that unfortunately reflects parts of the real world. I love the way even the rebellion, the supposed "good guys" are not entirely free of controversy. I also love the various magical abilities shown. Though the worldbuilding may not the most extensive, it is still wonderful and houses the plot and characters well.

Onto the characters! There is not much to say here. Character-development-wise, the various characters had their own distinctive personalities and motivations. The relationships between the characters were lovely - the friendships in particular. Frankie was the best character after Brisa, and a certain man named after a certain god does not live up to his name at all. At least not the part where the god is pretty good towards women; something the man cannot relate to. Overall, the characters and their dynamics were interesting.

If you are a fan of complex - but not too complex - worldbuilding, 3-dimensional characters, and heaps of adventure, you will most likely enjoy Princess of Nothing!

Biggest thanks to the author and Netgalley for providing me an ARC for a honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Sofia Shab for the ARC!

Quick Review Summary:

This book was captivating from the very start. It was a fast paced adventure with characters I have grown to adore! Plus.. there's a talking cat. What more could you ask for?! If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with emotional depth and exciting plot twists, this book is an absolute must read! Great for fans of City of Bones, Crescent City, and Powerless.

In-depth Review:

Characters:
The characters in this book are complex and they developed and grew throughout the book. I became more and more emotionally invested in each of their journeys. Sofia Shab was fantastic at intertwining each of their relationships and developing them over time. Each introduction of a new person felt smooth, and each one has distinct personalities that made them easy to remember.

I have to give special mention to the mysterious talking cat Belial, who quickly became one of my absolute favorite characters! While Belial was not present in later parts the book, they stayed on my mind, and the ending makes me look forward to their story development in the next book!

Plot:
I felt like this book was fast paced in nature and really explored and expanded the world over time; However, each scene serves a purpose. I would often go back to earlier scenes and reread them to look for the foreshadowing that I missed, once a plot twist released. I couldn't put the book down and continued reading late into the night.

There were several characters or scenes from the story that I was suspicious of from the beginning, and I was proved correct as things developed; However, the author also included plot twists I never saw coming, which kept the reading experience exciting throughout.

Ending:
I am EXTREMELY looking forward to reading the next book in this series! The combination rich and complex characters and great paced storytelling made this a standout read that I couldn't put down. The plot twist at the ending left me anticipating what comes next, and I'll be counting down the days until the sequel is released. (Take your time, but I'm also so excited!)