There's a peculiar joy in living with kids who collect everything—rocks, enamel pins, even, once, a weirdly human-shaped carrot. My son Marcus proudly arranged that carrot beside his science trophies. ("It's almost art, Mom.") My daughter, Rebecca, rolled her eyes and doodled the moment in her journal. Among the chaos and creativity at home, I always root for book heroines who juggle their own oddities with dignity—which is exactly why Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater got my attention.
Plot Summary
Half a Soul (Regency Faerie Tales Book 1) by Olivia Atwater introduces Theodora "Dora" Ettings, a young Regency-era woman changed forever when a faerie steals half her soul. Now living with emotional numbness and zero embarrassment, Dora hopes to fly under the radar during London's bustling Season. But her chance meeting with Elias Wilder—the cursed royal magician—pulls her into a world of magical intrigue, faerie bargains, and a mysterious sleeping plague spreading through London's poorest neighborhoods. Dora must choose how much of her remaining soul and heart to risk—not just for her own happiness but for those who need her most. This novel starts the Regency Faerie Tales trilogy, combining fantasy and gentle romance within a vividly magical historical England.
Why I Love This Book
I love how Olivia Atwater blends quirky humor, warmth, and serious themes. Dora isn't just surviving—she's using her curse to notice and help those overlooked by society. Her offbeat courage and witty perspective on London's rules cracked me up and made me feel right at home. The slow-burn romance with Elias Wilder sparkles, full of banter and softness. I connected with the messiness of these characters—their flaws and big hearts. The magical world is cozy and atmospheric, yet also spotlights real issues like poverty and class, which gave the story depth and heart. The book left me wanting to spend more time with this cast, imperfections and all.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy gentle fantasy, Regency romance, stories with fae magic, or the "found family" trope, this is for you. You'll especially love Half a Soul if you prefer cozy atmospheres, wallflower heroines, slow-burn romances, and whimsical English settings. The book mixes magical mystery, lighthearted banter, and meaningful themes. It does touch on tougher topics, but it's not dark or explicit—think comfort read with a dash of bittersweet emotion.
⚠️ Trigger warning: Child neglect, trauma, classism, mild violence, manipulation, brief references to emotional numbing, magic-induced harm.
Tagged As
regency fantasy, historical romance, cozy fantasy, fae magic, slow-burn romance, wallflower heroine, found family, social justice, magical London, trilogy opener, HEA, clean romance, whimsical, fantasy of manners
Steam Level
This is a sweet, clean romance—no explicit scenes. The emotional intimacy and longing are central, but everything stays light, with fade-to-black moments and subtle chemistry.
