A review by fe_fifi_fofum
Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater

fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

The only reason why it's not a five-star is simply because it just didn't have that 5-star feel that I usually feel in books that I rated five stars. However, this book is definitely the best romance book I've read so far, save for, like, one.

The Studio Ghibli vibes were there and I was not disappointed nor lied to. I just loved Dora so much she was so funny and interesting and idk I just loved her so much. She was an unbothered(?) queen done well. Her romance with Elias was EVERYTHING to me. The ballroom scene?
Elias being absolutely devasted when Dora fell into the sleeping plague?
YES.

And that side romance with Albert and Miss Jennings? UGH. UGHH. UGHHHHHHHHH.


I also loved the commentary on classism and of war and evil. Chef's kiss.

Anyway, in terms of romance as I'm not too much of a romance reader, this was definitely a five-star book.