A review by spicycronereads
Her Soul to Take by Harley Laroux

dark emotional hopeful mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This was a re-read in preparation for reading the third and final book in the series. But I hadn’t reviewed it last time I read it. Raelynn is a fun FMC - a curious, independent young woman interested in all things spooky. I like to think there is some resemblance to an idealized version of my younger self, right down her identifying with Velma. Although some of her choices are a bit puzzling, they are explained in the final act. Though this book is a FM pairing, both MCs are bi and mention previous same-gender relationships, so it was nice to see that representation.

Leon as a MMC quickly morphs from a (let’s face it: attractive) cocky a-hole to a character whose trauma makes him sympathetic. And he is seggsy as all get out, especially as protective as he is of Rae. Plus, the cat loves him, so what is not to like? Their physical dynamic and those scenes are really spicy. And even if one’s own kinks don’t necessarily go quite so far in that particular direction, it was still hot and I found I could relate to Raelynn’s wanting to feel safe. And the book definitely had me rethinking my position on certain piercings. 

The villains were a bit flat but they served their purpose. I would not have minded more development of the friendship between Inaya and Raelynn, or of Raelynn’s parents, which would have put this at a higher rating for me. But overall, it’s well-written, well paced, with sexually diverse, relatable characters, and a good quality and quantity of spice.  
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