Pain is something I know all too well. Mahogany Hollow was supposed to be a new beginning, somewhere the shadow of Pops’ troubles couldn’t follow. It runs in the family—the destruction and the fear. My kid brother is showing the signs and so am I. I’ve found a ray of light within the darkness, someone precious and pure. But knowing my life, it’s only a matter of time before everything I touch is destroyed—including Rome.
Rome
I’ve always had everything I needed—the warmth of my family and the magic in my town. Yet there’s always been something missing, a piece I found in him. Dontae. The moment I saw him, I knew he was mine. But breaking through his barriers won’t be easy, he’s haunted by something he doesn’t understand. A power that he’s afraid of. Our fated love was written into the Earth and the stars, but is that enough? If we can’t trust one another, will we survive?
What to expect
Psycho-spiritual Love Story with a HEA Soulbonds (Fated Mates) Found & Given Family Eerie, Cozy Town with Hidden secrets Modern Southern Gothic Orishas, Vodou, Wicca & Magic Ancestral, Spiritual and Physically Embodied Power System Size Difference Moody (Traumatized) x Sunshine Mental Health Rep (BPD, CPTSD, Depression, Schizophrenia, Anxiety) Hidden Identity Exploration of Generational Trauma Love as a refuge
Veil's Edge in Mahogany is an MM fantasy romance with dark themes and a HEA. The story ends on a cliffhanger, the romance does not. It is first person dual POV.
MM romance | Fantasy romance | Divine, Spiritual Magic System | Found family | Hurt/Comfort | Mental health rep | Fated mates | Trauma Recovery | So much Pinning | Size Difference | First times | Rimming | Somnophilia
QUÉ CARAJOS CON ESE FINAL?! DIOS MÍO, QUÉ ESPECTACULAR!
Definitivamente este libro es increíble. Qué obra maestra, sus más de 500 páginas valen completamente la pena. Sumamente recomendado, háganse un pequeño favor y lean esta maravilla de libro. Gracias.
Ahora, siendo un poco más seria. Siento que este libro tuvo todo lo que necesitaba: un amor bonito e incondicional, que podría parecer a simple vista como un insta-love pero en realidad no lo es, porque su relación se va desarrollando y profundizando poco a poco hasta llegar a ese lazo tan bonito que tienen Rome y Dontae. Debo decir también que el trope de found family ¡es de otro nivel! Literalmente amé cada interacción que tenían Dontae y Daymon con la familia de Rome; eran todos tan buenos y comprensivos que cada escena era muy entrañable.
En cuanto al tema de la magia y de los Dioses, y cómo cada uno era diferente, debo admitir que me quito el sombrero ante la autora y el mundo increíble que creó. Es un trabajo inmenso el que ella ha puesto en esta historia y se nota totalmente.
Según tengo entendido, será una serie de 5 libros, así que estoy muy impaciente por ver qué nos depara en los siguientes tomos. Definitivamente seré la primera en la fila, porque ese final me ha dejado con más preguntas que respuestas claras jaja.
Y ahora que he "terminado" mi intento de reseña coherente, empezaré con mi desvarío y debo advertir que ❌⚠️PUEDE HABER SPOILERS⚠️❌
Bien, para empezar tengo 2 puntos que podrían parecerse a una queja (o no), depende de cómo lo mires:
1) Siento que el libro estuvo bien, pero creo que la autora estiraba demasiado algunas escenas en vez de enfocarse en desarrollar más ciertas conversaciones o aclaraciones con respecto a (y aquí viene conectado al punto 2);
2) Con respecto a su mamá, hay conversaciones o información más bien que faltó dar, e incluso en vez de enfocarse en eso, la autora decidía alargar escenas que tal vez no tenían mucho que ver con nada y solo eran de relleno.
¿Estos dos puntos lo hacen un mal libro? PARA NADA, ¡ES MAGNÍFICO! Pero necesitaba decirlo.
Y aquí seguiré con mis desvaríos, que son más bien preguntas que no puedo dejar de hacerme luego de terminar este magnífico libro:
¿Qué carajos con ese final? ¿Cómo que hay otro cuervo gigante como Shadow? ¿Cómo que este es macho? ¿Será este la pareja de Shadow? ¿Existen más cuervos así? ¿Quién los crea o de dónde salieron? ¿Cómo que Alfie hizo lo que hizo? Mi corazón sufre por Day 😭. ¿Cómo que Daymon se iba a algún lado? ¿A dónde? ¿Será que el siguiente libro sea de Daymon y Alfie? ¿Será que sabremos qué pasó con Ephraim? ¿Será que este recupere su conciencia luego de lo que le pasó? ¿Por qué entre Ari (hermana de Rome) y Leo (mamá de Tae) hubo algo, como una conexión entre ellas mientras estuvieron en el café? ¿Será que la relación de los padres de Dontae realmente sea un trío? Es decir, ¿una unión entre Ari, Leo y un Ephraim recuperado?
❌⚠️Fin de los spoilers⚠️❌
Como decía, este libro fue un viaje increíble y muero por descubrir qué otros destinos nos depara esta serie. Esperando ansiosa el segundo libro💖💖
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WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT ENDING?! MY GOD, THAT WAS SPECTACULAR!
This book is definitely incredible. What a masterpiece—its 500+ pages are completely worth it. Highly recommended; do yourselves a little favor and read this wonderful book. Thank you.
Now, on a slightly more serious note. I feel like this book had everything it needed: a beautiful, unconditional love that might look like insta-love at first glance but really isn't, because their relationship develops and deepens bit by bit until it reaches that gorgeous bond Rome and Dontae share. I also have to say that the found family trope is on another level! I literally loved every single interaction Dontae and Daymon had with Rome's family; they were all so kind and understanding that every scene was incredibly heartwarming.
As for the magic system, the Gods, and how unique each one was, I must say I tip my hat to the author and the incredible world they built. It’s an immense amount of work that they put into this story, and it truly shows.
From what I understand, this will be a 5-book series, so I am very impatient to see what’s in store for us in the upcoming volumes. I will definitely be first in line, because that ending left me with way more questions than clear answers haha.
And now that I’ve "finished" my attempt at a coherent review, I’ll start with my ramblings, and I must warn you: ❌⚠️SPOILERS AHEAD⚠️❌
Alright, to begin with, I have 2 points that might look like a complaint (or not), depending on how you look at it:
1) I feel like the book was good, but I think the author dragged out some scenes too much instead of focusing on further developing certain conversations or clarifications regarding (and here is the link to point 2);
2) Regarding their mom, there were conversations or rather information that they failed to provide. Instead of focusing on that, the author chose to lengthen scenes that didn't really have much to do with anything and just felt like filler.
Do these two points make it a bad book? NOT AT ALL, IT’S MAGNIFICENT! But I just needed to get it off my chest.
And here I will continue with my ramblings, which are mostly questions I can’t stop asking myself after finishing this magnificent book:
What the hell is up with that ending? What do you mean there’s another giant raven like Shadow? What do you mean this one is male? Could this be Shadow’s mate? Are there more ravens like that? Who creates them, or where did they come from? How could Alfie do what he did?! My heart breaks for Day 😭. What do you mean Daymon was going somewhere? Where? Could the next book be about Daymon and Alfie? Will we find out what happened to Ephraim? Will he regain consciousness after what happened to him? Why was there something—like a connection—between Ari (Rome’s sister) and Leo (Tae’s mom) while they were at the café? Could Dontae’s parents' relationship actually be a triad? Meaning, a bond between Ari, Leo, and a recovered Ephraim?
❌⚠️End of spoilers⚠️❌
Like I was saying, this book was an incredible journey, and I’m dying to find out what other destinations this series has in store for us. Anxiously waiting for book two! 💖💖
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Omg Dontae & Rome were truly the sweetest babies 🥹
This book was incredible! It really made me feel everything. So many things I loved! Dontae & Daymon’s bond, the friendships, normalising showing emotions, a badass Raven - there’s a list of things, it’s just soo good!
Donate’s character was so relatable, especially understanding his guarded nature from his childhood. It was so nice seeing him feel safe to break down those wall 🥹 Rome was the perfect, patient match for him! Their emotional connection was everything. The spice was 👏🏽 also purple LACE 😏
The found family aspect was beautifully done, it’s truly one of my fave tropes and this was filled with it. Bree's writing is so poetic, so beautiful and I can’t wait to read more of her work!
I have SO many theories and questions for book two and absolutely can't wait for it.
I am not even sure how to start this review. This debut is written so beautifully, Bree’s story telling is exquisite!!
I was immediately hooked when I started reading. I literally had absolutely no idea what was going to happen throughout the whole story. This universe that Bree created is so beautiful. I feel like I’m just using the same words to describe it but I can’t even put into words the depth of this story and the characters. I loved the length!! Like yes it’s long but all of that is needed. There was not a single point where I felt like it was too long. If anything, I wanted more!! Dontae and Rome are some of my favorite MCs. Dontae had to grow up fast and take care of his brother because his mom leaves and his dad is not nice (understatement). Rome on the other hand has such a big, loving family but that doesn’t mean he’s got a perfect life. The anxiety rep in this book felt so real, the calming techniques, the words used to describe everything just was so relatable.
These two go through SO much at every turn in the story. The hurt/comfort truly comes out to play. There was one chapter where I knew what was coming based off Dontae’s character & internal thoughts but it still didn’t hurt any less. My heart just ached for Rome and Dontae, I’m just glad Dontae figured himself out 😂 These two were so precious, I loved their nicknames and just the adoration you could feel during their scenes together.
Rome’s parents and siblings are some of my favorite side characters because they just felt like such a true family. His parents are side characters but you could still feel the love between them as well. I also throughly enjoyed the magical aspects too! It was such a unique experience reading this story. I loved how everyone had something different they had control over or could do.
I have so much more I want to say but I’d have a novel of my own if I did that. I cannot begin to explain how meaningful this book was. Please, please, please go check it out!! Just absolutely phenomenal, I cannot get over it. And I am so excited for the rest of this series!! Bree, you are absolutely amazing.
Listen. This book is so SO good I messaged the Bree multiple times after she told me to feel free to yap about it with her. It took away my migraine nausea! I am absolutely seeking out more Black MM romantasy because I needed to read this on a very deep level. It’s so Black (descriptions, hair types and styles, soul guides, strong noses, full lips etc.), it’s spiritual, it’s reverent, it’s messy, it’s human, it’s intense, and it’s sexy. Could not be happier to find out how many books will be in the series. And now I feel even more connected to my own ancestors who I’m sure run themselves ragged trying to keep me alive. Sorry y’all. All that said, I received this book directly from the author (whom I found on Threads and now talk with on IG!) and this is my honest review. Especially because I read it on KU after getting so behind on my reading lol. 4.75 stars babyyyy. Nope I lied, it’s outright 5!
*arc review * this had my heart racinggggg!!! Adore Dante and Rome, this was one of my most anticipated reads and I loved absolutely everything about it. The swoon moments, the spicy moments, the emotional moments. All of it in between, the found family, the side characters??? (I would love some shadow merch 👀) I can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes.
Bree, I'm absolutely so so proud of you, thank you for sharing your amazing story, your babies with us.
If you’re a fan of eerie, cozy, small town settings that are interwoven with Orishas, Vodou, Wicca, soul bonds, and magic, I believe you’ll enjoy your stay in Mahogany Hollow. The story is told from the dual-perspectives of our protagonists, Dontae and Romelle, “Rome”, who come to find that they are soul bonded (Fated Mates). Rome and his siblings were raised acutely aware of the history and power of their bloodline, taught how to hone their gifts in a loving, supportive environment. In contrast, Dontae and Daymon, his little brother, were raised in an unstable household that gave way to secrets, abuse, and eventual abandonment. These circumstances led to Dontae being a character that felt like he was shrouded by an impenetrable darkness that could swallow anything in its wake, with no hope of escape. Through the strength of different bonds, most notably his soul bond with Rome, Dontae will uncover the truth of his family’s past and finally understand the unease he has experienced for most of his life.
Now that you’ve gotten a summary, here are some things I loved about this story without giving too much away:
- How descriptive it was throughout, in a poetic sense. I sometimes struggle with visualization but with Bree’s writing, I felt like I was in the scene alongside the characters. I loved the attention put into ensuring that the audience could envision and feel. The descriptions added to the intensity of the emotions the characters felt which brought me closer to each of them. - The general flow, as well as the build-up, of the story was steady. I felt like I got to know the characters intimately and no one felt disposable. Several of the other characters introduced in this story will have their own books (as this is Book 1 of 5) where their depths will be explored. However, from what I’ve already learned about them, I am both ecstatic and anxious for their respective journeys. - Emotional and physical intimacy oozes from Dontae and Rome! Meeting them felt like meeting two halves of the same whole. As a soul bonded pair, it felt like nothing short of magic. - The story is filled with emotionally intelligent characters, whether lovers, friends, or family. - Mental health representation (Anxiety, Depression, BPD, Schizophrenia) - While the story focuses on the romantic and ancestral bond between Dontae and Rome, we are shown the importance of other types of bonds, friendship and familial, and the integral role they play in supporting our main characters throughout, while standing firm in their identities outside of our protagonists. - The contrast of family dynamics: Dontae’s secretive and misguided family versus Rome’s loving and forthcoming family - The fact that Rome never faltered when it came to Dontae. He loved him fiercely, from the moment he laid eyes on him, through every trial, and grounded him tenderly. The same can be said of Dontae’s effect on Rome. They both feel the most at ease in each other’s presence or through their bond that they can always feel humming between them regardless of distance or time. - The spiritual elements throughout were enthralling and had me squirming on the edge of my seat, as the truth surrounding Dontae’s lineage and his place in the spiritual realm began unraveling. - Our sweet girl, Shadow (a massive Raven and Dontae’s best friend) who I’m sure you’ll also come to love with your whole heart! - There were several steamy moments that were deliciously lengthy and often left my mouth agape. The things that slip from both of their lips had me squealing time after time. The unhurried, detailed descriptions added to how tantalizing and intimate these moments felt. It almost felt like I was intruding.
Overall, this story illustrates that even if you feel unlovable due to poor mental health, unfortunate family circumstances and/or the like, you are worthy of love. The people who are meant to love you will help chase away the darkness you thought would consume you. There is no solace in a solitary existence in the dark.
I wanted to wait until my paperback copy came so I could review this book but it's taking its sweet time lol
Easy easy easy 5 stars. Everything is so mystical and loving and witchy from the characters to the place to the story. I'd love to reread in autumn when the vibes outside are like the vibes inside the book aaahhhhhh
The healthy masculinity was easily one of my favourite parts 😭 how Dontae and Daymon were allowed to love each other so freely but also be so (achingly) mad at each other broke my heart and put it back together. Rome's relationships with his siblings did the rest lol. I would've loved more scenes with Rome and Roz but I know I'm just being greedy lol
I hope Daymon and Alphonse get a book 🥺 Daymon absolutely stole my heart as the sensitive, honest, comedic little brother character but I'd love to see his challenges from his POV and how Alphonse would fit in with his power. I'd also just love to see Dontae and Rome's romance from Daymon's POV because I knoooowwww he would think the most unhinged things about his brother being whipped but also sooo stubborn 😆
Everything was so rich in Bree's writing without being overwhelming or confusing. The characters were so well developed and crafted to the point you could imagine every little detail about them, and they all have their own distinct personalities and voices despite such a large cast. Please imagine me doing the chefs kiss emoji here
I'm so curious about the ending. Is that Shadow's ancestor? Parent? Cousin? Her from a different universe? Will they be as kind? What will Shadow's relationship with them be? 👀 I'm so protective of that little (big lol) crow and I can't tell if the new larger one is dangerous or will also be friendly 👀 I am waiting (mostly) patiently
Also I want to steal Rome's style please and thank you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Main characters: Dontae & Rome Side characters: Daymon, Roz, Alfie, Silas, Julius, Shadow Page count: 576
First person, dual POV.
A gorgeous debut from Bree Soleil, filled with magic, soulbonds, and divine entities. The story has such a beautiful and ethereal quality and at its core is the deep and unshakable bond between Dontae and Rome. It was beautiful to see how their relationship grew and changed and deepened through all the challenges they faced. They were an unwavering support for each other, even if it took Dontae a minute to allow himself to truly accept the depth of what they shared. Their relationship was a shining beacon in this story and their intimacy was beautifully written and incredibly sensual and steamy.
I also loved how family centric this story was. There were so many wonderful side characters and lots of intersecting relationships. The relationship between Dontae and his brother Daymon was incredibly special, as was Rome’s relationship with his twin sister Roz. Rome’s whole family was wonderful and everyone was so quirky and unique, and fiercely devoted to each other. The complexity of the relationships Dontae and Daymon had with their parents really came through and was the underlying cause of most of their inner turmoil.
I have to mention Shadow since she was such a beautiful creature and an amazing companion for Dontae. I absolutely loved her and how she provided him with so much comfort and support and guidance. All from a fierce giant raven!
We were left with certain things resolved, but other things assuredly not. And a few mysterious bread crumbs leading us into the second book. Looking forward to the next one! 🤍
I honestly don’t even know where to start. The beautiful writing. The characters who you immediately care about and love. The found family. The given family. The spiritual and magical elements that I have not experienced in any other book, ever. The perfect pacing. The amazing balance between plot and intimacy. Wow, just wow.
I was lucky enough to Alpha read this book for Bree and let me just tell you that I am so glad I did. I feel like when I alpha read I go in a bit more critical and try to be hyperaware of if there is anything that could make it better but truly I just…fucking loved every bit of this. The pacing is perfect, nothing felt like filler. Everything served a purpose whether it be character or relationship development.
Let’s start with the characters: From the MCs to the smallest side characters, every person is given care and thought in how they’re written. The MCs and their friends and family are some of the most emotionally intelligent and open I have ever read. The love, affection, emotional freedom these characters and their people have is unmatched.
This book made me feel warm and cozy. It’s like being wrapped up in your favorite blanket on your favorite chair with a warm cup of tea and your favorite incense burning. To say this book is a vibe is an understatement. As a friend, I am incredibly proud of Bree for what she has created here. As a reader, I feel grateful that I got to go on this journey. I need more. I need every book. I need to know more about every single character and I am no where near ready to leave this world behind. I absolutely cannot wait to see what Bree Soleil does next.
This ARC review is extra special for a myriad of reasons. For one, I know the author and the level of research, care, and time that was put into Astral Bonds. Then there’s the one element I always find important to acknowledge: a story that is unapologetically Black and amplifies Black queer love.
Things I Loved:
Let’s get into Bree’s storytelling ability, shall we? Ancestral Bonds is a story that incorporates a variety of spiritual practices, soulbonds, and an intricate magic system. As a reader, I know that in books that feature magical/fantasy elements, there is a certain level of worldbuilding that needs to be done. Needless to say, Soleil absolutely nails it. This universe that Bree has built is beautiful, engrossing, and compelling. Yes, Veil’s Edge is thick, but the pages fly because of Bree’s writing prowess.
Black Romantasy!!! Going back to a previous statement, I can’t even articulate the joy that comes from AUTHENTIC representation in Ancestral Bonds. Baby, this book is for us by us. From the hair types/textures, colloquialisms, and the ancestral spirituality (orishas, vodou, etc). Then there’s the relationship between Rome and Dante. Sexy, emotional, reverent, it’s quite honestly everything.
Overall, I am enamored with Veil’s Edge in Mahogany. From the found family to the worldbuilding and romance, Bree has crafted a five-star read.
From the first day I read this story I was floored over how beautiful it was. As someone who actively reads many different types of romance, this one was so uniquely different that I couldn't put it down. Bree invited you into such a nuanced and layered magical world system, stepped in a world lore blessed by mysterious ancestors who guide our two MCs towards their fate.
Every twist and turn just left my mind reeling. The story arcs will leave you wanting to put more pieces of the puzzle together (and if you're like me pausing to scream over how good it is). Rome is just the sweetest person on the entire planet, and he finds what he believes is the other half of his heart in Dontae. They grow through unspeakable challenges that makes their bond as a couple even stronger.
Cinematic level writing, a story plot I can't forget, and characters that live rent free in your mind? 🙌🏾 Couldn't ask for anything better. If you're looking to read something captivating and completely otherworldly, you'll want to give this book a try. I'm not the same after reading it! This story was exactly what my inner self needed
My sweet sweet bbs Dontae & Rome…deeply obsessed with these boys!
this book consumed me from the very first chapter. It blends mythic and modern southern gothic vibes with rich, thoughtfully woven magic (vodou, Wicca, orishas) that felt so immersive and alive. I felt so connected to the characters and their world! Bree’s writing balanced humor with moments that were truly heartbreaking, creating an emotional ride that lingered lol. Rome & Donate’s relationship was beautifully done with a fated mates/soulbond connection that feels intense, raw, and deeply earned. And everyone who knows me knows I love a good found family trope 😍 I was just as deeply obsessed with the side characters as I was Rome & Dontae. I cannot wait for the next book (plsssssss let it be Alfie & Daymon 🥹)
From the moment Dontae and Rome locked eyes across a cemetery, I was completely hooked. Veil's Edge in Mahogany gave me everything I want in a romance—achingly slow burn, genuine emotional vulnerability, and two characters who feel like real people carrying real wounds. Dontae's fear of his own darkness and Rome's fierce, patient devotion had me turning pages late into the night. The magical world of Mahogany Hollow, rooted in Vodou and Wiccan traditions, feels alive and immersive without overwhelming the love story at its heart.
If you're looking for a queer fantasy romance with BIPOC leads, wounded heroes who learn to let love in, and prose that lingers long after the last page—read this book. I can't wait for what comes next.
This was an amazing book to read. The characters, the storyline, world-building and everything in between were close to perfection. Dontea's and Rome's relationship had so much love, support and devotion. The plot whilst not extremely twisty was a bit unpredictable and emotionally wrenching. Books like this help you out of the reading slump and make you think about reading books by new, unknown book authors.
a strong debut. i enjoyed immersing myself in the town of Mahogany Hollow, the different familial and romantic bonds that form among its inhabitants (along with an unexpected friendship with a black raven), and the blend of Wiccan and Vodou magic.
A great debut! I really loved Dontae and Rome together 🥰 they are so sweet and tender with each other while also being the other's fiercest protector. I can't wait to see where the rest of the series takes us!
Happy release day <3 I had the pleasure of alpha reading for Bree, and this is such a unique and entertaining debut! The world-building and magic system is unlike anything I've read before, with voudou, orishas, magical graveyards, and more. The plot is carefully woven with intrigue and twists; who can you trust.... and who will betray you?? And of course, at the heart of it all, is the ADORABLE, sweet & tender romance between sunshine Rome and his stoic Dontae.
Dontae truly has my heart... my sweet broken boy, he's been through so much, and I was so emotional watching him find love and found family. So much delicious hurt/comfort as Dontae and Rome learn to trust and care for one another. Rome really puts the work in to bring the best out of Tae, and help him heal from his past. Dontae's incredibly complicated journey with his family, particularly his relationship with his mother, yanked on my heartstrings so hard it hurt. I love my romance books angsty, and this one has the perfect balance of sweet & spicy one moment, and "oh... am I crying?" the next.
Also features a fantastic ensemble cast you will fall in love with, and did I mention a massive, over-protective raven? Shadow is my MVP and I think of her often.
I can't wait for more from the Mahogany Hollow world. This is just the beginning!
I picked up this book up purely based off a song that was on one of Bree's posts. (That's a mood reader thing for sure) But let me tell you, I do not regret it at all! This book sucked me right in! MM Fantasy Romance, Divine, Spiritual Magic System, Hurt / Comfort, First Times, Somnophilia. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time waiting to see what happened next. All the side characters are amazing. I am excited to see what Bree is going to give us next. Also Bree is amazing! I have been yapping in their DM's