How do I say in words how much I loved this book! I finished this entire book in about four hours, I sat in the lobby of my residence, telling myself I would head to the gym after I finished this chapter. And four hours later the gym had shut, I hadn’t done my groceries and I was sitting in a frigid lobby, hugely satisfied with my latest purchase and feeling so sated despite being thoroughly unproductive. Though the craving for sweet, cinnamon sticky buns proved to be a slight discomfort.

“Maybe men can learn a thing or two from women.”

~ Shelby Mahurin

The story follows the witch in hiding Lou and chasseur (a fancy word for a man of the church who also happens to be a hunky witch hunter) Reid as they are forced into holy matrimony despite being unable to stand each other. So this is very obviously a hate to love trope with a forced marriage. And aside from that Lou hides not only from the Chasseurs but a secret that has followed her all her life. Suffice to say the plot is hugely captivating. And from the very first chapter, you find yourself addicted to Lou and Reid’s story.

I loved the world Shelby builds. Named Belterra, it reminded me very much of rural cities in France that steeped in city glamour but aren’t as busy as Paris. And the magic woven in makes it even more unique. She describes bakeries and theatres, festivals and events and the political system and religious beliefs. Every aspect of this new world has been thought out and planned and it makes for a more immersive experience while reading. The magic system was slightly confusing to me but the abstinence on Lou’s behalf resulted in her not having to use a lot of her powers so I didn’t have to focus too much on it. It was confusing in the sense that it was a bit too complex. I actually found Coco’s powers a lot easier to understand.

As for the characters, I found Shelby’s take so refreshing. A lot of YA books make sex a novelty for women rather than men, so it was very refreshing to see Lou being more attuned to her sexuality and teaching Reid how to embrace his as he goes from being a virgin brainwashed into believing chastity implies purity. And the romance between them is done so well because it’s not only sex but there is legitimate build up and angst between both the characters before they embrace the romance blossoming between each other. And in terms of personality I felt connected to both Lou and Reid they were relatable characters, who were flawed and took the time to improve themselves in ways that they could, they had compassion and secrets they didn’t want to share, and they both felt so very human. She did a fantastic job with both characters. I found some of the scenes concerning the villain a bit chilling and that in my opinion is the mark of good writing for evil characters. The side characters were all interesting and some were very very lovable, so I’m a bit apprehensive because of who Shelby might kill off in the coming books.

The language was simple and yet the descriptions of the ‘celebrations’ at the tail end of the book are written so beautifully as are the descriptions of Soleil et Lune are pure magic. I liked this style of writing but the story doesn’t get washed away in overly descriptive flowery language but it also isn’t boring and plain. It’s a nice blend.

In summary, I want the next book. Now. This second, Today. Tonight. Tomorrow.