4 stars! This was a good book! I was expecting a book similar to the first book in the series, Blood and Bone, which was a shifter romance. So I was expecting more shifters, but instead I got a ton of new interesting beings and characters, too. I love the way the world-building opened up in this book and the direction it went! This is Rhys and Savannah's book. Savannah is a shy, sweet empath who works in a coffee shop, owned and run by her best friend, a witch named Ava. Savannah can feel other people's emotions, both good and bad, which makes it hard for her to go out in public and be around many people. Rhys is a soul eater. He and his twin brother were created by a very evil master many centuries ago, endured unspeakable abuse, and were forced to commit some terrible acts. After getting free from the situation with his Master and brother, he has tried to lead a solitary life in peace and quiet. As a soul eater, he is capable of killing a person by eating their soul, like an emotional vampire. Rhys is a good man and wishes he had not been created. He doesn't want to hurt people, so he doesn't get close to many at all. Fate brings him to Savannah's town and into her coffee shop, where they meet. Rhys ends up renting the house across the street from Savannah. Both feel a connection to each other right away. They begin to spend time together as friends, which leads to a romance. They have some hurdles with Rhys's guilt from his past, but they soon realize they calm each other in a way no one can. There is some suspense and trouble for them when a powerful force sweeps into town and threatens their happiness. They weather the storm together, though, and come out stronger than ever.
I really liked Rhys and Savannah. They were perfect for each other. Rhys was able to ease the emotional upheaval being an empath caused Savannah. Savannah helped Rhys get over the pain of his past and move on. For two people who had been through and done so much, they were both somewhat innocent and very sweet together. Their relationship was a slow burn and old-fashioned in some ways because of Rhys's age. But with all of the chaos and magic brought in by the evil witch, it fit to have a sweet, simple romance for the couple.
I loved the paranormal aspects in this book. The witches, spells, and supernatural beings were very cool and different. I loved Ava and I am looking forward to her story too. The ongoing series story arc is getting very interesting and it looks like the next book will bring the shifters together with the witches.
Overall, this was a really good, witchy book! Rhys and Savannah's story was very sweet. I can't wait for more from the Blood and Bone series and Ms. Wood!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*