Title: Soulmated
Author: Shaila Patel
Two souls. One Fate.
Eighteen-year-old Liam Whelan, an Irish royal empath, has been searching for his elusive soulmate. The rare union will cement his family’s standing in empath politics and afford the couple legendary powers, while also making them targets of those seeking to oust them.
Laxshmi Kapadia, an Indian-American high school student from a traditional family, faces her mother’s ultimatum: Graduate early and go to medical school, or commit to an arranged marriage.
When Liam moves next door to Laxshmi, he’s immediately and inexplicably drawn to her. In Liam, Laxshmi envisions a future with the freedom to follow her heart.
Liam’s father isn’t convinced Laxshmi is “The One” and Laxshmi’s mother won’t even let her talk to their handsome new neighbor. Will Liam and Laxshmi defy expectations and embrace a shared destiny? Or is the risk of choosing one’s own fate too great a price for the soulmated?
Review:
First of all, it’s a dual POV, girl-boy. I kind of love those stories. Author Shaila Patel does it so well. Liam and Lucky each have a very distinct voice and personality. Liam’s Irish accent and assertiveness, Lucky’s gentle charm. Very authentically done.
So, essentially the crescendo of Liam and Lucky’s relationship and their journey is the heart and soul of the book. It is perfectly done, not too fast and not too slow. I adored the way Liam could “read” her so well because of his abilities and I anticipated the development of her gift. At first, I worried about reading another insta-love book, but it was far from that, especially if you consider the impact of finding your royally matched soulmate. *And, wow, finding your soulmate in this book is no small experience! (no spoilers.)
More depth and layers were added by the unraveling of Lucky’s fears and obstacles, and Liam’s secret world; conflict was set up through dangerous rivals; and mystery was established by unexpected help.
On a side note, the sprinkling of Irish and Indian culture and language felt real interesting (obviously, its an OWN voices.) I’m a sucker for all things cultural.
Also, as a writer, I was impressed with Shaila’s giving and withholding of information. It was well delivered (pace-wise) and kept the interest growing– until she reaches her climax, which was….oh so unexpected and left me wanting more!
Looking forward to book 2 🙂
*Note: For sensitive readers, there is strong language.
Review by: Nova McBee
The Spinning Pen 