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Soul Charmer #1
Borrowed Souls
Callie Delgado always puts family first, and unfortunately her brother knows it. She’s emptied her savings, lost work, and spilled countless tears trying to keep him out of trouble, but now he’s in deeper than ever, and his debt is on Callie’s head. She’s given a choice: do some dirty work for the mob, or have her brother returned to her in tiny pieces.
Renting souls is big business for the religious population of Gem City. Those looking to take part in immoral—or even illegal—activity can borrow someone else’s soul, for a price, and sin without consequence.
To save her brother, Callie needs a borrowed soul, but she doesn’t have anywhere near the money to pay for it. The slimy Soul Charmer is willing to barter, but accepting his offer will force Callie into a dangerous world of magic she isn’t ready for.
With the help of the guarded but undeniably attractive Derek—whose allegiance to the Charmer wavers as his connection to Callie grows—she’ll have to walk a tight line, avoid pissing off the bad guys, all while struggling to determine what her loyalty to her family’s really worth.
Losing her brother isn’t an option. Losing her soul? Maybe.
Renting souls is big business for the religious population of Gem City. Those looking to take part in immoral—or even illegal—activity can borrow someone else’s soul, for a price, and sin without consequence.
To save her brother, Callie needs a borrowed soul, but she doesn’t have anywhere near the money to pay for it. The slimy Soul Charmer is willing to barter, but accepting his offer will force Callie into a dangerous world of magic she isn’t ready for.
With the help of the guarded but undeniably attractive Derek—whose allegiance to the Charmer wavers as his connection to Callie grows—she’ll have to walk a tight line, avoid pissing off the bad guys, all while struggling to determine what her loyalty to her family’s really worth.
Losing her brother isn’t an option. Losing her soul? Maybe.
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 2, 2017
About the author
Chelsea Mueller
9 books319 followersChelsea Mueller writes gritty contemporary fantasy and thrillers for adults and teens. She founded the speculative fiction website Vampire Book Club and blogs about TV and romance novels for numerous websites.
She loves bad cover songs, good fight scenes*, and every soapy YA drama Netflix can put in her queue. Chelsea lives in Texas, and has been known to say y’all.
For the latest updates, join her email list at ChelseaMueller.com or follow @ChelseaVBC on Twitter and Instagram.
* Need tips for writing dynamic and realistic fight scenes? Check out Chelsea's Write Like a Fighter blog series where she puts her martial arts background to use for fellow authors.
She loves bad cover songs, good fight scenes*, and every soapy YA drama Netflix can put in her queue. Chelsea lives in Texas, and has been known to say y’all.
For the latest updates, join her email list at ChelseaMueller.com or follow @ChelseaVBC on Twitter and Instagram.
* Need tips for writing dynamic and realistic fight scenes? Check out Chelsea's Write Like a Fighter blog series where she puts her martial arts background to use for fellow authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
May 2, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
More and more romance has been making its way into Urban Fantasy turning it into a lesser version of itself. Chelsea Mueller grabbed the wheel, and steered the genre back into the correct lane with BORROWED SOULS. Callie & Derek do form a connection however, the focus remained on the bold, gritty roots that make this branch of Speculative Fiction so compelling. This author's years of experience as a book reviewer were put to good use in her writing debut.
Correlations can be drawn between this universe, and Stacia Kane's DOWNSIDE GHOSTS with the nature of the story line, the heroine's susceptible personality, and the flawed protector. This observation isn't meant as a critique, but rather a compliment because I happen to really enjoy the aforementioned series, and similarities aside, this title distinguished itself with its inventive premise and well-built characters. Plus, Mueller is just getting started!
Soul magic was loosely explained however, I still have so many questions like... Where does the Charmer get his wares? Why was he able to do something to Delgado that didn't work on Derek? What happens after the six-month self-life has elapsed? Needless to say, the author has a lot of world-building left to do, and I will DEFINITELY be snatching up the next installment. Theories aside, the plot was provocative, and I was happy with the direction that things seem to be taking.
I instantly connected with Callie; she's barely making ends meet, and is being taken advantage of by her family, but deep down she's a good person. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and although she's not proud of her actions, they were relatable because everyone's found themselves stretched to their breaking point for a loved one. I admired her spunk and tenacity, and look forward to watching her adapt to her new circumstances including her relationship with Derek.
You should spend your hard-earned money on BORROWED SOULS this week! Available for pre-order.
More and more romance has been making its way into Urban Fantasy turning it into a lesser version of itself. Chelsea Mueller grabbed the wheel, and steered the genre back into the correct lane with BORROWED SOULS. Callie & Derek do form a connection however, the focus remained on the bold, gritty roots that make this branch of Speculative Fiction so compelling. This author's years of experience as a book reviewer were put to good use in her writing debut.
Correlations can be drawn between this universe, and Stacia Kane's DOWNSIDE GHOSTS with the nature of the story line, the heroine's susceptible personality, and the flawed protector. This observation isn't meant as a critique, but rather a compliment because I happen to really enjoy the aforementioned series, and similarities aside, this title distinguished itself with its inventive premise and well-built characters. Plus, Mueller is just getting started!
Soul magic was loosely explained however, I still have so many questions like... Where does the Charmer get his wares? Why was he able to do something to Delgado that didn't work on Derek? What happens after the six-month self-life has elapsed? Needless to say, the author has a lot of world-building left to do, and I will DEFINITELY be snatching up the next installment. Theories aside, the plot was provocative, and I was happy with the direction that things seem to be taking.
I instantly connected with Callie; she's barely making ends meet, and is being taken advantage of by her family, but deep down she's a good person. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and although she's not proud of her actions, they were relatable because everyone's found themselves stretched to their breaking point for a loved one. I admired her spunk and tenacity, and look forward to watching her adapt to her new circumstances including her relationship with Derek.
You should spend your hard-earned money on BORROWED SOULS this week! Available for pre-order.
July 26, 2016
Fans of UF aren't going to want to miss this debut novel by Chelsea Mueller! The world building is rich and vibrant and the characters are multi-dimensional. The story is faced paced and engaging with tons of great action, snarky dialog, and just enough steamy romance to make it well-rounded story. If you're a fan of the Alex Craft series by Kalayna Price, or the Mercy Thomson series, by Patricia Briggs, you'll love BORROWED SOULS. I can't wait for the next installment!
December 2, 2017
Chelsea Mueller takes a common urban fantasy trope and gives it a fresh spin with her debut novel. It’s the story of an average girl who gets sucked into the world of magic only to find there is something special about her that she never knew existed. But while that may sound familiar, the particulars are cool, the worldbuilding is unique, and the romance hit all the right notes, giving me a book I really enjoyed.
Callie is a pragmatic 20-something who has had to bail out her meth-head brother too many times. Still, she has to do it again or his dealer will start sending him back to her in pieces. She doesn’t have the money. She used it all to pay off his last debt. But she can work off the debt in trade. The dealer wants her to borrow a soul to steal something from the police station.
Yes, you read that right. In this world, souls are for rent, which means people can sin all they want without it getting in their way of going to heaven. Callie wants nothing to do with that kind of shady business, but a borrowed soul is the only thing that can help hide her identity while committing the crime. To make matters even worse, the Soul Charmer doesn’t rent his souls for free –and we already know Callie has no money. So she has to go to work for the creepy magician to earn the merchandise. The story follows her on her two week stint collecting souls that were never returned and stumbling onto something that could be even scarier than her new employer.
The pacing here was great. The story moved quickly, but not so fast it gave me whiplash. I liked Callie and her no-nonsense approach to doing whatever must be done to save her scummy big brother. And then there is the love interest. I really liked Derek. He was Callie’s assigned partner on her soul collecting gig. He’s the Charmer’s scary muscle, but he’s more than that too. He’s protective and loyal and super-sexy. I’m not sure why no one snatched him up before Callie, but I got the distinct impression that no one has ever looked past what he does for a living. These two are great together and their love scenes hit the spot. (I especially appreciated how Callie knows what she wants and takes the lead.)
The book has a good concrete ending, but it also leaves threads open for the series to continue. I can’t wait to learn the secrets of what makes Callie so special… and Derek’s relationship to the Soul Charmer. It’s got to be family. Son, maybe?
I can definitely feel the influence of Stacia Kane here. In a good way. It’s not Downside at all, but something about it feels reminiscent of it.
I’m already looking forward to book two. Would recommend for fans of urban fantasy.
Rating: B+
*ARC provided by publisher
Callie is a pragmatic 20-something who has had to bail out her meth-head brother too many times. Still, she has to do it again or his dealer will start sending him back to her in pieces. She doesn’t have the money. She used it all to pay off his last debt. But she can work off the debt in trade. The dealer wants her to borrow a soul to steal something from the police station.
Yes, you read that right. In this world, souls are for rent, which means people can sin all they want without it getting in their way of going to heaven. Callie wants nothing to do with that kind of shady business, but a borrowed soul is the only thing that can help hide her identity while committing the crime. To make matters even worse, the Soul Charmer doesn’t rent his souls for free –and we already know Callie has no money. So she has to go to work for the creepy magician to earn the merchandise. The story follows her on her two week stint collecting souls that were never returned and stumbling onto something that could be even scarier than her new employer.
The pacing here was great. The story moved quickly, but not so fast it gave me whiplash. I liked Callie and her no-nonsense approach to doing whatever must be done to save her scummy big brother. And then there is the love interest. I really liked Derek. He was Callie’s assigned partner on her soul collecting gig. He’s the Charmer’s scary muscle, but he’s more than that too. He’s protective and loyal and super-sexy. I’m not sure why no one snatched him up before Callie, but I got the distinct impression that no one has ever looked past what he does for a living. These two are great together and their love scenes hit the spot. (I especially appreciated how Callie knows what she wants and takes the lead.)
The book has a good concrete ending, but it also leaves threads open for the series to continue. I can’t wait to learn the secrets of what makes Callie so special… and Derek’s relationship to the Soul Charmer. It’s got to be family. Son, maybe?
I can definitely feel the influence of Stacia Kane here. In a good way. It’s not Downside at all, but something about it feels reminiscent of it.
I’m already looking forward to book two. Would recommend for fans of urban fantasy.
Rating: B+
*ARC provided by publisher
May 28, 2017
Pretty unique story. I have to think about this one... copy rec'd for review consideration
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had no idea what to expect with this book. I dabble very lightly in paranormal and urban fantasy books. I always feel like I have to say prayers as I read them. Several times I have been surprised by a novel in this genre and happily this book is one of those.
Written with a contemporary storyline, the author gives us a unique and somewhat creepy story about renting souls. At first I was a little mystified but the author certainly reeled me in with her unique storytelling ability in this intriguing story.
With a bit of romance thrown in that included a hot muscular meat of a man, the story took on a nice balance. Amazing imagination with spectacular description, this story left me feeling many different emotions. And that’s a good thing.
This author was a surprise and she is one that I will look for again.
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/borrowed-soul...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had no idea what to expect with this book. I dabble very lightly in paranormal and urban fantasy books. I always feel like I have to say prayers as I read them. Several times I have been surprised by a novel in this genre and happily this book is one of those.
Written with a contemporary storyline, the author gives us a unique and somewhat creepy story about renting souls. At first I was a little mystified but the author certainly reeled me in with her unique storytelling ability in this intriguing story.
With a bit of romance thrown in that included a hot muscular meat of a man, the story took on a nice balance. Amazing imagination with spectacular description, this story left me feeling many different emotions. And that’s a good thing.
This author was a surprise and she is one that I will look for again.
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/borrowed-soul...
April 14, 2017
Read for Review (Edelwiess)
Overall Rating: 4.25
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.50
First Thought when Finished: Borrowed Souls delivered on damaged characters that handle their sh*t in adult a** ways! We need more of this in Urban Fantasy! Oh the action, drama, and magic were all there too!
Quick Thoughts: How much do I love when adults act like adults even when they are screwed up or in screwy situations? TONS! Callie and Derek are those kind of characters that I can totally get behind. Do they disagree? You betcha! Do they sometimes not communicate? Sure but eventually (and I am not talking half a book later) do. Do they have chemistry? OFF THE WALLS! Do they handle their sh*t even when they don't want too? YES! From the beginning, you know this about Callie! She just steps up to the plate every dang time. She doesn't whine about it. She doesn't shirk her duty (even when maybe she should *side eye to brother*). She just does it even though she is dealing with her own crap (you know bills, being broke, ect). There is something really real about Callie that I think most people can identify with and Derek ---well he is just a hunk of "OMG you can come stay in my house anytime" AWESOME! He has his own stuff to deal with. I HIGHLY recommend this to Urban Fantasy readers who love Charles/Anna from Alpha/Omega by Patricia Briggs (my favorite handle their sh*t adult couple in UF) or anyone else who loves Urban Fantasy.
Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, DONE! Reviews
Overall Rating: 4.25
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.50
First Thought when Finished: Borrowed Souls delivered on damaged characters that handle their sh*t in adult a** ways! We need more of this in Urban Fantasy! Oh the action, drama, and magic were all there too!
Quick Thoughts: How much do I love when adults act like adults even when they are screwed up or in screwy situations? TONS! Callie and Derek are those kind of characters that I can totally get behind. Do they disagree? You betcha! Do they sometimes not communicate? Sure but eventually (and I am not talking half a book later) do. Do they have chemistry? OFF THE WALLS! Do they handle their sh*t even when they don't want too? YES! From the beginning, you know this about Callie! She just steps up to the plate every dang time. She doesn't whine about it. She doesn't shirk her duty (even when maybe she should *side eye to brother*). She just does it even though she is dealing with her own crap (you know bills, being broke, ect). There is something really real about Callie that I think most people can identify with and Derek ---well he is just a hunk of "OMG you can come stay in my house anytime" AWESOME! He has his own stuff to deal with. I HIGHLY recommend this to Urban Fantasy readers who love Charles/Anna from Alpha/Omega by Patricia Briggs (my favorite handle their sh*t adult couple in UF) or anyone else who loves Urban Fantasy.
Part of my Read It, Rate It, File It, DONE! Reviews
August 16, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed Borrowed Souls. The book was very creative and I loved the New Mexico setting Mueller created. It was eerie and rundown, the perfect place where someone would be able to borrow souls for illegal activities.
The characters were well-developed. Callie, the heroine, was realistic and flawed - she didn’t make me want to slap her (as most heroines do). Derek, the sexy love interest, was just the right amount of mysterious, tough, and sweet. There was no instalove, but I wish there was a little more tension and build-up to their relationship. I will be curious to know how the author handles them in the next book.
Overall I recommend this book, especially to those who enjoy the paranormal / urban fantasy genre (like Charley Davidson and Kate Daniels - some of my other favs). I will definitely keep my eye out for the second in this series.
Note: I received this book in a free giveaway on Goodreads, but the above is my honest opinion.
The characters were well-developed. Callie, the heroine, was realistic and flawed - she didn’t make me want to slap her (as most heroines do). Derek, the sexy love interest, was just the right amount of mysterious, tough, and sweet. There was no instalove, but I wish there was a little more tension and build-up to their relationship. I will be curious to know how the author handles them in the next book.
Overall I recommend this book, especially to those who enjoy the paranormal / urban fantasy genre (like Charley Davidson and Kate Daniels - some of my other favs). I will definitely keep my eye out for the second in this series.
Note: I received this book in a free giveaway on Goodreads, but the above is my honest opinion.
April 19, 2017
It's not easy for a debut author to get a traditional publishing deal for an urban fantasy novel in the current market, but I can see why Chelsea Mueller did! BORROWED SOULS is a terrific take on an alternate modern day Earth – one just barely off-center of the world we know. The movement of souls from bodies can be affected by magic, the Catholic Church acts as an authoritarian guardian enforcing the rules of a soul’s ascension to heaven – and an underworld drug scene has evolved around the high of borrowing someone else’s soul, to save one’s own from sin.
This is a terrific world with an unlikely heroine, quiet and determined, with a pure heart and fiery will to protect her family. The hero, Derek, is big, tough, morally ambiguous and utterly delicious.
I think this is the start to a fabulous new series. Definitely recommend!
This is a terrific world with an unlikely heroine, quiet and determined, with a pure heart and fiery will to protect her family. The hero, Derek, is big, tough, morally ambiguous and utterly delicious.
I think this is the start to a fabulous new series. Definitely recommend!
July 7, 2017
*** Review Courtesy of All Things UF ***
BORROWED SOULS started out really strong! Promising characters were surrounded in a richly developed world with an awesome magic system… That’s all there ever was though. I wanted to love this book, but the great start fell flat as nothing happened throughout the rest of BORROWED SOULS.
I love finding a new and interesting world to explore, because a lot of the time Urban Fantasy got start to feel all the same. So I’m always excited when I find a book that really has a new and unique world. BORROWED SOULS has that. A world of soul magic and how a deeply religious city would react to such magic.
But nothing happens in BORROWED SOULS. Callie has to work for the soul charmer for a couple of weeks to allow her to pay off her brother’s debt to the mob. It’s interesting to see Callie working for the soul charmer, and in the process she uncovers an interesting side plot that I think will become the major plot of the next book. However, there are no twists to the side plot. It’s interesting, but nothing more. Despite the craziness and potential action when working for a soul charmer and the mob, there isn’t any. The only part that could’ve had action was done off screen.
Some of my favorite books have no to little true action, see the JAG in Space series as an example. But those books have strong characters driven stories. I was never able to relate to Callie, and the romance was flat. I was excited when the romance didn’t start out as insta-lust, but I never felt any strong chemistry between Derek and Callie.
I’m willing to cut the first book in a series a little slack, and if BORROWED SOULS was an audiobook I would probably listen to the second book in the Soul Charmer series, in the hopes that it would pick up the pace. As it stands now, I find it unlikely that I’ll pick up the sequel.
Sexual Content - One Sex Scene
BORROWED SOULS started out really strong! Promising characters were surrounded in a richly developed world with an awesome magic system… That’s all there ever was though. I wanted to love this book, but the great start fell flat as nothing happened throughout the rest of BORROWED SOULS.
I love finding a new and interesting world to explore, because a lot of the time Urban Fantasy got start to feel all the same. So I’m always excited when I find a book that really has a new and unique world. BORROWED SOULS has that. A world of soul magic and how a deeply religious city would react to such magic.
But nothing happens in BORROWED SOULS. Callie has to work for the soul charmer for a couple of weeks to allow her to pay off her brother’s debt to the mob. It’s interesting to see Callie working for the soul charmer, and in the process she uncovers an interesting side plot that I think will become the major plot of the next book. However, there are no twists to the side plot. It’s interesting, but nothing more. Despite the craziness and potential action when working for a soul charmer and the mob, there isn’t any. The only part that could’ve had action was done off screen.
Some of my favorite books have no to little true action, see the JAG in Space series as an example. But those books have strong characters driven stories. I was never able to relate to Callie, and the romance was flat. I was excited when the romance didn’t start out as insta-lust, but I never felt any strong chemistry between Derek and Callie.
I’m willing to cut the first book in a series a little slack, and if BORROWED SOULS was an audiobook I would probably listen to the second book in the Soul Charmer series, in the hopes that it would pick up the pace. As it stands now, I find it unlikely that I’ll pick up the sequel.
Sexual Content - One Sex Scene
December 10, 2017
Callie Delgado is a fool. Mob leader, Ford, has her drug addict brother Josh and says he’ll send him back in pieces etc. She believes this because there were three severed fingers on his desk. They want her to steal some evidence from police records to cover his $20,000 debt. Ford tells her to go rent a soul.
***
The mob are going to send a rank amateur to do this??? She works as a kitchen hand in an old people’s home. She is not a thief; she’s not even very smart; she’s got no crime skills at all. But she’s who they ask to do it? Why?
In this world, crimes and sins attach to your soul. So you can rent a soul, do the guilt stuff, then give it back.
*frowns* so many world building issues, here.
But it is a character point that she has an agnostic belief; she doesn’t believe the hype. So it shouldn’t matter to her. And why would having an extra soul or not, make sense for the Mob criminals either?
She asks the Mob for two weeks grace to go work for the soul Charmer so that she can borrow a soul, do the crime, steal the records and get her brother back. She can’t afford to pay cash for a soul ‘coz she has none after bailing her brother out last time.
Josh doesn’t even thank her for doing this; just bitches about how it’ll take two weeks.
So why is she bothering?
The Charmer says she has to work with his enforcer, Derek, to collect souls. [Derek is constantly described as big, rough, scary and scarred.]
They fall in insta-lust.
Sighs…
I have some issues:
It’s an interesting idea but the plot issues and the world building issues throw me out of it.
The romance is instant. I liked Derek. I didn’t like Callie.
2 stars
***
The mob are going to send a rank amateur to do this??? She works as a kitchen hand in an old people’s home. She is not a thief; she’s not even very smart; she’s got no crime skills at all. But she’s who they ask to do it? Why?
In this world, crimes and sins attach to your soul. So you can rent a soul, do the guilt stuff, then give it back.
*frowns* so many world building issues, here.
But it is a character point that she has an agnostic belief; she doesn’t believe the hype. So it shouldn’t matter to her. And why would having an extra soul or not, make sense for the Mob criminals either?
She asks the Mob for two weeks grace to go work for the soul Charmer so that she can borrow a soul, do the crime, steal the records and get her brother back. She can’t afford to pay cash for a soul ‘coz she has none after bailing her brother out last time.
Josh doesn’t even thank her for doing this; just bitches about how it’ll take two weeks.
So why is she bothering?
The Charmer says she has to work with his enforcer, Derek, to collect souls. [Derek is constantly described as big, rough, scary and scarred.]
They fall in insta-lust.
Sighs…
I have some issues:
It’s an interesting idea but the plot issues and the world building issues throw me out of it.
The romance is instant. I liked Derek. I didn’t like Callie.
2 stars
May 4, 2017
Mon avis en Français
My ENglish review
I knew the author, Chelsea Mueller, through her Vampire Book Club blog. I also knew she was writing and Borrowed Souls is her first book. As soon as I heard of it, I was immediately intrigued by the story. I was therefore very curious to get into this title.
Callie did not have an easy life and yet her brother was always there for her when she was little and when she needed someone. Yet, since that time, things have changed and it is her turn to help him. Alas, her help is constant and she doesn’t have anything anymore as she gave her all her money. But now, once again, troubles return and it is with the mafia that she must now manage the problems of her brother. Indeed, while he is retained, she must « rent » a soul in order to commit the crime they desire her to do. But without money, it is much more complicated than expected. Only one solution is emerging and Callie finds herself obliged to work for the Charmer, the person who holds the souls in order to pay her loan. By teaming up with Derek, our heroine will have to prove her worth by helping to recover the souls that the customers have not brought back.
I had a good time with the story but it’s true that I had a bit of trouble hanging on it at first. I do not really know why but I was not as caught as I would have thought. Yet, while little by little, I got into the story, I also had more facilities to connect to the characters. We understand Callie and her desire to help her family despite that it is one-sided … It is sad to see all the energy and all the efforts she puts to help her family while nobody care. Yet her meeting with Derek will change everything. It was quite difficult to decide on this man. Being the Charmer employee, we do not know if he is really trustworthy but it’s very, very nice to finally see someone trying to help and protect Callie, because she really needs it. With him, she will finally have someone who can take her side.
It was a good reading despite this rather complicated start and I had a great time with Callie and Derek. There are still a lot of questions about the author’s universe and especially about magic or even the characters like Derek, Zara (the mother) or Josh (the brother). I’m curious to learn more!
My ENglish review
I knew the author, Chelsea Mueller, through her Vampire Book Club blog. I also knew she was writing and Borrowed Souls is her first book. As soon as I heard of it, I was immediately intrigued by the story. I was therefore very curious to get into this title.
Callie did not have an easy life and yet her brother was always there for her when she was little and when she needed someone. Yet, since that time, things have changed and it is her turn to help him. Alas, her help is constant and she doesn’t have anything anymore as she gave her all her money. But now, once again, troubles return and it is with the mafia that she must now manage the problems of her brother. Indeed, while he is retained, she must « rent » a soul in order to commit the crime they desire her to do. But without money, it is much more complicated than expected. Only one solution is emerging and Callie finds herself obliged to work for the Charmer, the person who holds the souls in order to pay her loan. By teaming up with Derek, our heroine will have to prove her worth by helping to recover the souls that the customers have not brought back.
I had a good time with the story but it’s true that I had a bit of trouble hanging on it at first. I do not really know why but I was not as caught as I would have thought. Yet, while little by little, I got into the story, I also had more facilities to connect to the characters. We understand Callie and her desire to help her family despite that it is one-sided … It is sad to see all the energy and all the efforts she puts to help her family while nobody care. Yet her meeting with Derek will change everything. It was quite difficult to decide on this man. Being the Charmer employee, we do not know if he is really trustworthy but it’s very, very nice to finally see someone trying to help and protect Callie, because she really needs it. With him, she will finally have someone who can take her side.
It was a good reading despite this rather complicated start and I had a great time with Callie and Derek. There are still a lot of questions about the author’s universe and especially about magic or even the characters like Derek, Zara (the mother) or Josh (the brother). I’m curious to learn more!
October 18, 2017
I really liked this and am looking forward to getting to know Callie and Derek more. Their relationship and how it developed seemed very realistic to me and grounded them nicely, making them a strong team able to deal with the paranormal elements thrown their way. Callie finds her footing after being thrust into this world she doesn't want to be in. As it should, it takes her a while to come to grips with her new circumstances, but it looks like she's ready to start making some strong stands in the next book. Book one has a complete story arc, but there's definitely more to come!
May 6, 2017
Callie’s brother Josh is in trouble and the only way to get him back alive is to do the bidding of drug lord Ford. For her task, Callie must borrow a soul from the Soul Charmer and commit a crime. But it’s not that easy. The Charmer insists Callie work for him for two weeks in exchange for the soul saying she doesn’t have enough cash to outright loan it. The Charmer is intrigued by Callie’s soul, and Callie may be getting way more than she bargained for.
In Ms. Mueller’s fascinating new Soul Charmer series, souls are pawned for cash or other favors. The Soul Charmer is able to wield “soul magic,” allowing him to take souls from and place souls in bodies. One can trade their for a short time to get cash, or borrow another to sin without repercussions on your own soul. The mythology is completely unique and unlike anything I’ve read before, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to Borrowed Souls.
As the first book in a new series, there is a lot of world-building, but it’s not heavy-handed or shared via info-dumping. The author leaves clues about the world in dialogue and descriptive scenes. The reader learns about soul magic as Callie is exposed to this dangerous trade. Callie is rather naive at times, even though she comes from a rough childhood and her mom is a bit of a con artist. I like that Callie has to work for her badass UF heroine status; she’s not born with powers or have innate fighting abilities. Try as she might, Callie just can’t be mean, which gives her a soft edge. Callie makes mistakes, sometimes costly ones, but she seems to learn from her situation and move forward.
Callie works as part of a soul repo team for two weeks to earn a day use of a soul. The Soul Charmer pairs Callie with Derek, the muscle to shake up those who are delinquent on returning borrowed souls. Derek is the strong, silent type, but Callie forms a bond with the big guy fairly quickly. She also has difficulty hiding her attraction to Derek, and soon the pair find themselves a couple. I LOVE Derek. He’s kind and good, giving someone for Callie to trust. She’s got so little good in her life, and Derek fills all the nooks and crannies without taking over her life. He’s patient and understand, something Callie hasn’t experienced before.
While I love this new world and mythos, I struggled a bit with the storytelling. I think what is niggling at the back of my mind while reading Borrow Souls was that there were things that happened and they just weren’t fleshed out enough for me. For example. After Callie accidentally burns Bianca and then the next day goes to her own place of employment, two therapists jump on her for burning Bianca. How did they even piece all that together?! Too often there were unfinished thoughts or conversations, with much left hanging. I questioned if I was supposed to understand what happened, or did the author purposely leave things open-ended.
In the end, I am completely fascinated by the world of soul-swapping and ambiguous magic. Callie is a wonderful UF heroine because she has to earn her badassery the hard way, working her butt off to survive and protect those she loves. I love Derek’s role as protector and lover - Callie deserves to have some good in her life, even if she doesn’t think she does. The world building is strong, leaving a few holes that should be fleshed out in future titles. At times the writing is a bit underdeveloped, but overall a good story. I look forward to what happens next in Ms. Mueller’s compelling Soul Charmer series.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by Edelweiss/Author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
In Ms. Mueller’s fascinating new Soul Charmer series, souls are pawned for cash or other favors. The Soul Charmer is able to wield “soul magic,” allowing him to take souls from and place souls in bodies. One can trade their for a short time to get cash, or borrow another to sin without repercussions on your own soul. The mythology is completely unique and unlike anything I’ve read before, which is one of the reasons I was drawn to Borrowed Souls.
As the first book in a new series, there is a lot of world-building, but it’s not heavy-handed or shared via info-dumping. The author leaves clues about the world in dialogue and descriptive scenes. The reader learns about soul magic as Callie is exposed to this dangerous trade. Callie is rather naive at times, even though she comes from a rough childhood and her mom is a bit of a con artist. I like that Callie has to work for her badass UF heroine status; she’s not born with powers or have innate fighting abilities. Try as she might, Callie just can’t be mean, which gives her a soft edge. Callie makes mistakes, sometimes costly ones, but she seems to learn from her situation and move forward.
Callie works as part of a soul repo team for two weeks to earn a day use of a soul. The Soul Charmer pairs Callie with Derek, the muscle to shake up those who are delinquent on returning borrowed souls. Derek is the strong, silent type, but Callie forms a bond with the big guy fairly quickly. She also has difficulty hiding her attraction to Derek, and soon the pair find themselves a couple. I LOVE Derek. He’s kind and good, giving someone for Callie to trust. She’s got so little good in her life, and Derek fills all the nooks and crannies without taking over her life. He’s patient and understand, something Callie hasn’t experienced before.
While I love this new world and mythos, I struggled a bit with the storytelling. I think what is niggling at the back of my mind while reading Borrow Souls was that there were things that happened and they just weren’t fleshed out enough for me. For example. After Callie accidentally burns Bianca and then the next day goes to her own place of employment, two therapists jump on her for burning Bianca. How did they even piece all that together?! Too often there were unfinished thoughts or conversations, with much left hanging. I questioned if I was supposed to understand what happened, or did the author purposely leave things open-ended.
In the end, I am completely fascinated by the world of soul-swapping and ambiguous magic. Callie is a wonderful UF heroine because she has to earn her badassery the hard way, working her butt off to survive and protect those she loves. I love Derek’s role as protector and lover - Callie deserves to have some good in her life, even if she doesn’t think she does. The world building is strong, leaving a few holes that should be fleshed out in future titles. At times the writing is a bit underdeveloped, but overall a good story. I look forward to what happens next in Ms. Mueller’s compelling Soul Charmer series.
My Rating: B- Liked It, but I had a few small issues
Review copy provided by Edelweiss/Author
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
May 3, 2017
*Source* Edelweiss
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*MY Thoughts*
Borrowed Souls is the first installment in debut author Chelsea Mueller's Soul Charmer series. As the synopsis indicates, 22-year old Callie Delgado is the protagonist for this series. She's put in a difficult situation because of her older brothers habits. Habits that have cost more than any one person should be subjected to. But, still it's not enough. Not after he is taken. Not after she agrees to work with the thug who vows to hurt him. Not after her motto is that family comes first no matter what.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5
*MY Thoughts*
Borrowed Souls is the first installment in debut author Chelsea Mueller's Soul Charmer series. As the synopsis indicates, 22-year old Callie Delgado is the protagonist for this series. She's put in a difficult situation because of her older brothers habits. Habits that have cost more than any one person should be subjected to. But, still it's not enough. Not after he is taken. Not after she agrees to work with the thug who vows to hurt him. Not after her motto is that family comes first no matter what.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
May 16, 2017
Originally posted t SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/05/review-...
Urban Fantasy welcomes Chelsea Mueller and her authorial debut with open arms as she introduces readers to Gem City, a place where religion holds sway and people are able to borrow souls for a price in order to commit sin without compromising their own. All condoned by the Church. Solid characters and familiar content create a comfortable base for readers to begin their journey. Key elements emerge and engage as Mueller balances the world building and character set up with the main conflict. Snarky wit and snappy narrative keep the story flowing at an enjoyable pace. Multiple subplots offer readers the assurance that this is just the beginning of what’s to come.Though this particular world view isn’t new (think Stacia Kane’s Downside series) Mueller adds her own personal stamp to it and creates an action packed unique adventure that I quite enjoyed.
Our protagonist, Callie Delego, is 22 years old and has spent her life taking care of her mom and brother. She finds herself forced into one predicament after another because of her drug addict brother and her motto that family always come first. Not your usual urban fantasy heroine, Callie isn’t a natural born warrior or a powerful magic wielder. She isn’t on a mission of revenge, redemption, or growth. She’s just an average woman whose unwavering loyalty towards her worthless family is her Achilles heel. Her vulnerability and low self-esteem make it hard to connect with her at first though you begin to understand her motivations as you get to know her. She makes choices that come across as weak and/or naive but there is a commendable determination to her actions. She is who she is and she neither excuses herself nor expects you to make excuses for her. I am very interested to see what direction Mueller takes in Callie’s growth and evolution.
An interesting and diverse cast of secondary characters decorates the story, each with their own story and agenda that looks to slowly reveal over the course of the series. Callie’s mother and brother are both manipulative users who use the past to keep a tight leash around Callie’s neck. Derek is an enigma and very sweet, patient, and protective under his rather large and gruff exterior. An enforcer for the Soul Charmer, he is who you’ll meet if you don’t return the soul you borrowed on time. His and Callie’s romance is slow to develop and actually quite charming but still moved a little faster than I was used to in Urban Fantasy. I’m curious to see if his connection to his boss is what I think it is and with whom his loyalties will eventually end up. The Soul Charmer and Ford the crime boss are both villains of the story and each wants something from Callie regardless of the price she may be forced to pay. I enjoyed the multiple dimensions Mueller gave her characters. They are neither predictable nor expected. The notion of good and evil is subjective and even Callie has shades of gray within her.
I did find the story dragged a little at times but that is common with the first book of a series, especially in fantasy. Heavy magical world and character building take time and it can interfere with the flow of the story line. I also found the romance a bit premature. I would have liked for a slower build up between Derek and Callie, perhaps over a couple of books, but that is my personal preference when it comes to urban fantasy.
Mueller leaves us with plenty of questions and concerns as she breaks off rather abruptly and leaves Gem City. Callie’s life is changing…whether it’s for better or worse remains to be seen. I look forward to reading the next in the series, title and release date to be announced. If you looking for something beyond the usual shifters, mages, and vampires in your urban fantasy then Chelsea Mueller has the perfect read for you.
Now for the fun part!! I have one copy of Borrowed Souls to give away. Just leave a comment telling me what your favorite urban fantasy trope is. I will pick a winner Sunday. Giveaway is open to US residents only.
Grade: B
Urban Fantasy welcomes Chelsea Mueller and her authorial debut with open arms as she introduces readers to Gem City, a place where religion holds sway and people are able to borrow souls for a price in order to commit sin without compromising their own. All condoned by the Church. Solid characters and familiar content create a comfortable base for readers to begin their journey. Key elements emerge and engage as Mueller balances the world building and character set up with the main conflict. Snarky wit and snappy narrative keep the story flowing at an enjoyable pace. Multiple subplots offer readers the assurance that this is just the beginning of what’s to come.Though this particular world view isn’t new (think Stacia Kane’s Downside series) Mueller adds her own personal stamp to it and creates an action packed unique adventure that I quite enjoyed.
Our protagonist, Callie Delego, is 22 years old and has spent her life taking care of her mom and brother. She finds herself forced into one predicament after another because of her drug addict brother and her motto that family always come first. Not your usual urban fantasy heroine, Callie isn’t a natural born warrior or a powerful magic wielder. She isn’t on a mission of revenge, redemption, or growth. She’s just an average woman whose unwavering loyalty towards her worthless family is her Achilles heel. Her vulnerability and low self-esteem make it hard to connect with her at first though you begin to understand her motivations as you get to know her. She makes choices that come across as weak and/or naive but there is a commendable determination to her actions. She is who she is and she neither excuses herself nor expects you to make excuses for her. I am very interested to see what direction Mueller takes in Callie’s growth and evolution.
An interesting and diverse cast of secondary characters decorates the story, each with their own story and agenda that looks to slowly reveal over the course of the series. Callie’s mother and brother are both manipulative users who use the past to keep a tight leash around Callie’s neck. Derek is an enigma and very sweet, patient, and protective under his rather large and gruff exterior. An enforcer for the Soul Charmer, he is who you’ll meet if you don’t return the soul you borrowed on time. His and Callie’s romance is slow to develop and actually quite charming but still moved a little faster than I was used to in Urban Fantasy. I’m curious to see if his connection to his boss is what I think it is and with whom his loyalties will eventually end up. The Soul Charmer and Ford the crime boss are both villains of the story and each wants something from Callie regardless of the price she may be forced to pay. I enjoyed the multiple dimensions Mueller gave her characters. They are neither predictable nor expected. The notion of good and evil is subjective and even Callie has shades of gray within her.
I did find the story dragged a little at times but that is common with the first book of a series, especially in fantasy. Heavy magical world and character building take time and it can interfere with the flow of the story line. I also found the romance a bit premature. I would have liked for a slower build up between Derek and Callie, perhaps over a couple of books, but that is my personal preference when it comes to urban fantasy.
Mueller leaves us with plenty of questions and concerns as she breaks off rather abruptly and leaves Gem City. Callie’s life is changing…whether it’s for better or worse remains to be seen. I look forward to reading the next in the series, title and release date to be announced. If you looking for something beyond the usual shifters, mages, and vampires in your urban fantasy then Chelsea Mueller has the perfect read for you.
Now for the fun part!! I have one copy of Borrowed Souls to give away. Just leave a comment telling me what your favorite urban fantasy trope is. I will pick a winner Sunday. Giveaway is open to US residents only.
Grade: B
April 17, 2017
Because of all the similar elements, a heavily church-influenced society and damaged characters in not-exactly-legal jobs, I expected to find a lot of Downside in Borrowed Souls. Though there are certainly hints of Terrible in Derek, Mueller's soul magic is a wholly original, and fascinating, creation. Borrowed Souls is also much sunnier, due only in part to the Southwest setting making its presence felt. That said, I think fans of Stacia Kane's series will definitely enjoy Borrowed Souls and its old school urban fantasy feel.
Review based on a copy provided by the author.
Review based on a copy provided by the author.
September 16, 2017
Just when I start to think that everything has been done in Urban Fantasy a new author comes and surprises me!
I've been reading Chelsea's VBC blog for a while now and had totally all intentions of reading Borrowed Souls after it came out, but I kept forgetting about it and I'm so angry at myself for taking this long to read it.
Chelsea Mueller has managed to create such an interesting world akin to what Charlaine Harris did with vampires in the Sookie Stackhouse series, only instead of vampires we have souls. Instead of vampires coming out to society, society has started to 'rent' souls to do all their dirty deeds and keep theirs intact for heaven. And the results are messy and fun to follow along!
I loved the main character and the pureness of her soul. And Derek, her bad boy partner-in-crime, is her perfect match.
I am so thrilled and happy by this interesting series and I look forward to see what transpires next.
I've been reading Chelsea's VBC blog for a while now and had totally all intentions of reading Borrowed Souls after it came out, but I kept forgetting about it and I'm so angry at myself for taking this long to read it.
Chelsea Mueller has managed to create such an interesting world akin to what Charlaine Harris did with vampires in the Sookie Stackhouse series, only instead of vampires we have souls. Instead of vampires coming out to society, society has started to 'rent' souls to do all their dirty deeds and keep theirs intact for heaven. And the results are messy and fun to follow along!
I loved the main character and the pureness of her soul. And Derek, her bad boy partner-in-crime, is her perfect match.
I am so thrilled and happy by this interesting series and I look forward to see what transpires next.
February 24, 2019
Mueller is Exciting new voice in Urban Fantasy!
Mueller does a great job balancing the key elements I look for in an urban fantasy read: mystery, action, danger, supernatural elements and a touch of romance to round out the rough edges. Borrowed Souls is a fantastic start to what will sure to be an auto-buy series for this urban fantasy fan!
Mueller does a great job balancing the key elements I look for in an urban fantasy read: mystery, action, danger, supernatural elements and a touch of romance to round out the rough edges. Borrowed Souls is a fantastic start to what will sure to be an auto-buy series for this urban fantasy fan!
May 2, 2017
This review and others can be found on my blog, Fine Print.
Renting souls is a dirty business, one Callie Delgado would sooner pretend doesn’t exist at all. But when her brother’s drug debts come due and the collectors start making good on their threats, Callie has no choice but to work for Gem City’s notorious Soul Charmer to save his skin…maybe at the cost of her own soul.
Creating a new urban fantasy series that can stand out in the crowd is no easy feat, but with BORROWED SOULS Chelsea Mueller proves that she’s up to the task. She recognizes that there’s no need to reinvent the wheel, but rather breathe new life into genre conventions and shed some of the archetypical baggage of urban fantasy. The creative yet familiar-feeling world building, a distinct desert city setting, and an atypical heroine, BORROWED SOULS will appeal to long-time fans looking for something a bit different and skeptics alike. It’s almost like Mueller’s an expert who’s been reviewing urban fantasy for years…
The key to any successful urban fantasy is a compelling protagonist, and Callie certainly fits the bill. Unlike many urban fantasy characters, much of the conflict in Callie’s life is internal rather than external. Sure, she encounters bad guys and deals with magic, but the real demons in BORROWED SOULS are her own emotional issues. Thanks to her manipulative con artist mother and her brother Josh’s proclivity for using her, Callie has a boatload of hangups and seriously low self-esteem. Yet she retains a kind of grim practicality that I really admire, choosing to get on with life as if it’s just another day even when she’s compromising everything she believes in. Her vulnerability is refreshing, and I think anyone who’s had addicts or manipulative personalities in their lives will find Callie incredibly relatable.
While she may not be a devout Cortean Catholic like most of Gem City, Callie knows that messing with soul magic is risky business. The freedom from divine consequences that it offers people makes them do selfish, crazy, dangerous things. Renting a soul enables the renter to take another soul into their body, a soul that will bear the impurities that would normally fall on their own soul as a result of sin. Adultery? Armed robbery? Murder? All of it’s possible, because it also interferes with forensic evidence gathering, rendering the cops useless. Soul magic means can do it all with no repercussions…so long as you pay the Soul Charmer and return his souls on time. If you don’t, he’ll send his enforcer Derek to collect the merchandise – and he won’t be gentle about it.
With Callie forced to work as Derek’s partner to earn credit for a soul, she falls deeper into the world of soul magic almost without noticing. The Soul Charmer will take back the magic he gave her when the job’s done, won’t he? Will he give Callie a soul that’ll do the trick for the risky job she’s been given in exchange for Josh’s safe return? And will Callie and Derek’s fledgling romance survive the dark deeds she plans to commit? One thing’s for sure, Callie’s life will never be the same, even if she does get Josh back.
I was completely charmed by BORROWED SOULS, and I haven’t been this excited about a new traditional urban fantasy series in a long time. Congratulations to Chelsea Mueller, she’s got a hit on her hands!
Renting souls is a dirty business, one Callie Delgado would sooner pretend doesn’t exist at all. But when her brother’s drug debts come due and the collectors start making good on their threats, Callie has no choice but to work for Gem City’s notorious Soul Charmer to save his skin…maybe at the cost of her own soul.
Creating a new urban fantasy series that can stand out in the crowd is no easy feat, but with BORROWED SOULS Chelsea Mueller proves that she’s up to the task. She recognizes that there’s no need to reinvent the wheel, but rather breathe new life into genre conventions and shed some of the archetypical baggage of urban fantasy. The creative yet familiar-feeling world building, a distinct desert city setting, and an atypical heroine, BORROWED SOULS will appeal to long-time fans looking for something a bit different and skeptics alike. It’s almost like Mueller’s an expert who’s been reviewing urban fantasy for years…
The key to any successful urban fantasy is a compelling protagonist, and Callie certainly fits the bill. Unlike many urban fantasy characters, much of the conflict in Callie’s life is internal rather than external. Sure, she encounters bad guys and deals with magic, but the real demons in BORROWED SOULS are her own emotional issues. Thanks to her manipulative con artist mother and her brother Josh’s proclivity for using her, Callie has a boatload of hangups and seriously low self-esteem. Yet she retains a kind of grim practicality that I really admire, choosing to get on with life as if it’s just another day even when she’s compromising everything she believes in. Her vulnerability is refreshing, and I think anyone who’s had addicts or manipulative personalities in their lives will find Callie incredibly relatable.
While she may not be a devout Cortean Catholic like most of Gem City, Callie knows that messing with soul magic is risky business. The freedom from divine consequences that it offers people makes them do selfish, crazy, dangerous things. Renting a soul enables the renter to take another soul into their body, a soul that will bear the impurities that would normally fall on their own soul as a result of sin. Adultery? Armed robbery? Murder? All of it’s possible, because it also interferes with forensic evidence gathering, rendering the cops useless. Soul magic means can do it all with no repercussions…so long as you pay the Soul Charmer and return his souls on time. If you don’t, he’ll send his enforcer Derek to collect the merchandise – and he won’t be gentle about it.
With Callie forced to work as Derek’s partner to earn credit for a soul, she falls deeper into the world of soul magic almost without noticing. The Soul Charmer will take back the magic he gave her when the job’s done, won’t he? Will he give Callie a soul that’ll do the trick for the risky job she’s been given in exchange for Josh’s safe return? And will Callie and Derek’s fledgling romance survive the dark deeds she plans to commit? One thing’s for sure, Callie’s life will never be the same, even if she does get Josh back.
I was completely charmed by BORROWED SOULS, and I haven’t been this excited about a new traditional urban fantasy series in a long time. Congratulations to Chelsea Mueller, she’s got a hit on her hands!
January 4, 2019
2,5/5
March 6, 2022
Written like a secondary school class practical and each student wrote a chapter
May 26, 2017
I commend Callie for becoming a Soul Collector to help out her brother. Coming from a similar situation, I understand her choices. I would’ve liked her to draw that line before this sh”t even happened, but if it were, we wouldn’t have this story to read. It is what it is. She’s a stand-up kind of girl. I just hope Mueller gives that brother of hers a good kick in the ass when it’s done and over. Like I said, upside, and I think the only upside to Callie’s situation is having to work with Derek. He is that sexy, dangerous bad boy who is also sweet and protective over Callie. I love his dichotomy of a ruthless bad boy and a super caring and sweet guy. The steam factor was low but the romance was prominent. I really like these two.
I enjoyed the world Mueller created here. The magic and soul collecting is a different take on “souls” in general, but a very cool concept. Who wouldn't want to do bad things without paying the consequences, right? Ah, but it wouldn’t be that easy even in Borrowed Souls. In any soul usage, collecting, or renting, there’s always a price. The conflict Mueller brought to the table was quite interesting. I did have several questions about the history and the technicalities about soul collecting. I thought the story lacked that bit. I’m hoping there is more information on that in the next installment. I can’t wait to read more of this world. Overall a good start, rating this 3.5-4 stars. I have a feeling this will be a good series to follow.
*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Angela❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
April 24, 2017
Family First is the mantra that has been drilled into Callie Delgado's head from birth. That's why when her brother, again, needs her help, Callie is there for him. This time, however, there's going to be more to her help than dishing out money. Callie's brother is in trouble with the mob and in order for Callie to keep her brother alive, she's asked to perform a dangerous, illegal task for them.
To do this, she'll need to rent a soul. Soul rental in quite popular in Gem City. If you want to commit a sin or a crime, you can rent someone else's soul, then the act is not tainted upon your soul. When the time comes to enter the afterlife, you'll have no marks against you. At least, that's what everyone is assured anyway.
Callie doesn't exactly have the money to rent a soul, but the Soul Charmer is willing to barter her work services in exchange for the use of a soul for a day. Not really being in a position to pass up the offer, Callie agrees and is then ensconced within the magical side of Gem City where she'll have to worry about losing her own soul in the process.
Borrowed Souls has a very interesting premise and the idea of renting souls to keep your own soul from being tainted is very clever, yet this first book is only an introduction to the gritty world of Gem City.
While I like the path that Borrowed Souls took in introducing us to this world, I honestly can't wait to see where else we'll be taken, along with Callie, as she learns the ins and outs of the soul charmer.
Callie was such a great character. The majority of events in Borrowed Souls stems from her dedication to her family which can be viewed as a strength but is also her biggest weakness as they honestly don't care much for Callie's well being. Yet she keeps, time and again, coming to their rescue. You want her to see what they're doing (and she does to some extent) and cut ties, but her loyalty to them speaks volumes about her character even if it's not for the best.
When you add the brooding Derek to the mix, who is helping Callie while she's indentured to the Soul Charmer, you witness him seeing her as more than the bail out. He sees Callie's loyalty and he doesn't demand anything in return. It's a good thing for Callie to have that juxtaposition between Derek and her family. And it makes you hope that she quickly reconciles this to her way of thinking.
Overall, I really enjoyed Borrowed Souls. I feel like we've just touched the tip of the iceberg as far as all the twists and turns that come into play with soul magic. I'm looking forward to witnessing how Callie's strengths and weaknesses come into play as everything continues to unfold.
To do this, she'll need to rent a soul. Soul rental in quite popular in Gem City. If you want to commit a sin or a crime, you can rent someone else's soul, then the act is not tainted upon your soul. When the time comes to enter the afterlife, you'll have no marks against you. At least, that's what everyone is assured anyway.
Callie doesn't exactly have the money to rent a soul, but the Soul Charmer is willing to barter her work services in exchange for the use of a soul for a day. Not really being in a position to pass up the offer, Callie agrees and is then ensconced within the magical side of Gem City where she'll have to worry about losing her own soul in the process.
Borrowed Souls has a very interesting premise and the idea of renting souls to keep your own soul from being tainted is very clever, yet this first book is only an introduction to the gritty world of Gem City.
While I like the path that Borrowed Souls took in introducing us to this world, I honestly can't wait to see where else we'll be taken, along with Callie, as she learns the ins and outs of the soul charmer.
Callie was such a great character. The majority of events in Borrowed Souls stems from her dedication to her family which can be viewed as a strength but is also her biggest weakness as they honestly don't care much for Callie's well being. Yet she keeps, time and again, coming to their rescue. You want her to see what they're doing (and she does to some extent) and cut ties, but her loyalty to them speaks volumes about her character even if it's not for the best.
When you add the brooding Derek to the mix, who is helping Callie while she's indentured to the Soul Charmer, you witness him seeing her as more than the bail out. He sees Callie's loyalty and he doesn't demand anything in return. It's a good thing for Callie to have that juxtaposition between Derek and her family. And it makes you hope that she quickly reconciles this to her way of thinking.
Overall, I really enjoyed Borrowed Souls. I feel like we've just touched the tip of the iceberg as far as all the twists and turns that come into play with soul magic. I'm looking forward to witnessing how Callie's strengths and weaknesses come into play as everything continues to unfold.
May 31, 2017
It was good. A solid 3.5 on the Star Scale.
The writing was good. I'd probably stick this in a semi-dark-urban-fantasy category since Callie (Main character) has to deal with drugs and shitty family and shitty life. This is definitely not a book for someone that wants to read about a Strong Heroine or positive... anything.
I'm not sure if it was just me or maybe my bad mood affected my reading, but I had trouble getting attached to any of the Characters.
Callie seemed to be delusional at times. I didn't understand the fact that she KNEW her brother was using her, yet still insisted that after this ordeal he was going to change and she was going to help him out again.
Derek was a blessing. I wish I knew more of his backstory. His history and how he came to know the Soul Charmer is a mystery left unsolved.
Another unsolved mystery is how Soul Magic started and how certain people learned it in the first place. I would have liked a cool mythological story.
I liked Callie and Derek's banter and the slowly evolving romance between the two.
The writing was good. I'd probably stick this in a semi-dark-urban-fantasy category since Callie (Main character) has to deal with drugs and shitty family and shitty life. This is definitely not a book for someone that wants to read about a Strong Heroine or positive... anything.
I'm not sure if it was just me or maybe my bad mood affected my reading, but I had trouble getting attached to any of the Characters.
Callie seemed to be delusional at times. I didn't understand the fact that she KNEW her brother was using her, yet still insisted that after this ordeal he was going to change and she was going to help him out again.
Derek was a blessing. I wish I knew more of his backstory. His history and how he came to know the Soul Charmer is a mystery left unsolved.
Another unsolved mystery is how Soul Magic started and how certain people learned it in the first place. I would have liked a cool mythological story.
I liked Callie and Derek's banter and the slowly evolving romance between the two.
March 20, 2018
Borrowed Souls by Chelsea Mueller
Urban fantasy where borrowing souls is a method of committing a crime or sin without having it impact the afterlife purity. An alternate dark world.
Callie lives a hard life, working long hours to pay bills. She will do anything to help and support her brother. Even when she is thrown into the underworld of crime and magic, she is firm in family requirements.
An enthralling dark desperation character set. I so want to kick her brother’s a$s and tell him to man up. Mother too. Poor Callie but she is so strong to shoulder the burden of family I was impressed by her commitment.
I can see this becoming a series that I will read if it does.
Urban fantasy where borrowing souls is a method of committing a crime or sin without having it impact the afterlife purity. An alternate dark world.
Callie lives a hard life, working long hours to pay bills. She will do anything to help and support her brother. Even when she is thrown into the underworld of crime and magic, she is firm in family requirements.
An enthralling dark desperation character set. I so want to kick her brother’s a$s and tell him to man up. Mother too. Poor Callie but she is so strong to shoulder the burden of family I was impressed by her commitment.
I can see this becoming a series that I will read if it does.
May 11, 2017
I really wanted to like this one more. I wasn't sure if it was the storyline that I didn't get along with or if it was actually the characters. The more I read, the more I realized there was just something about the characters that I couldn't connect with.
full review to come
full review to come
May 28, 2017
WOW! What an amazing debut by newcomer Chelsea Mueller! Borrowed Souls was every single thing I love about urban fantasy and more! Mueller has created a world unlike anything I have read. It's fresh, it's new and it's original. Sheer perfection.
Callie is used to taking care of her family. If she didn't, no one else would. Her wayward brother has landed himself in yet another mess, this time with a drug lord and his very life hinges on Callie's ability to steal some priceless information. In order to do that she needs to "borrow" a soul from the local Soul Charmer, a greasy man who barters every deal with desperate people. In order to get the soul she needs, she agrees to work for him for free. But his agreement comes with hidden strings and soon Callie finds herself shackled with a very hot partner and in search of the Soul Charmers competition, a woman who seems intent to steals the souls, literally right out of people's bodies.
There is a religious undercurrent to Borrowed Souls that piqued my interest. The citizens of this world seem to follow one central religion that focuses mainly on the purity of ones soul. Allowing your soul to become tainted is frowned upon but as always, there seems to be a few loopholes. One can simply "borrow" a soul from the Soul Charmer in order to do all the dirty deeds they've fantasized about. Two souls in one body and the extra one taking all the heat for your sins. As with everything though, there is a price, like having bits of your soul and bits of the borrowed soul mingling in ways that don't quite leave you the same after the experience. Like any drug, people chase that high, that release from their mundane lives and quickly become addicted.
From beginning to end I was enraptured with Borrowed Souls and the magic it presented. Callie and Derek were perfect together and I found their personalities to be unique. These characters got shit done and they didn't screw around. Both are capable on their own, but together they created a formidable foe. Even though Callie was unwittingly drawn into this line of work in an effort to save her ungrateful lowlife of a brother, she stood tall and faced her issues head on. I loved Derek's protectiveness from the get go and even though we don't really find out his story in this one, the groundwork is laid for future books and hopefully more of why he's so indebted to the Soul Charmer. Callie's fierce loyalty to her family was awesome even if a little questionable. Those people do not deserve her at all and it hurt my heart every time their stupidity cut her a little more. Derek, however, proved his worth time and again and I just adore them together.
I am so excited for another book from this world! I have high hopes for this series and this author. PLEASE GIVE ME MORE!!!
I give Borrowed Souls by Chelsea Mueller 5 stars!
Callie is used to taking care of her family. If she didn't, no one else would. Her wayward brother has landed himself in yet another mess, this time with a drug lord and his very life hinges on Callie's ability to steal some priceless information. In order to do that she needs to "borrow" a soul from the local Soul Charmer, a greasy man who barters every deal with desperate people. In order to get the soul she needs, she agrees to work for him for free. But his agreement comes with hidden strings and soon Callie finds herself shackled with a very hot partner and in search of the Soul Charmers competition, a woman who seems intent to steals the souls, literally right out of people's bodies.
There is a religious undercurrent to Borrowed Souls that piqued my interest. The citizens of this world seem to follow one central religion that focuses mainly on the purity of ones soul. Allowing your soul to become tainted is frowned upon but as always, there seems to be a few loopholes. One can simply "borrow" a soul from the Soul Charmer in order to do all the dirty deeds they've fantasized about. Two souls in one body and the extra one taking all the heat for your sins. As with everything though, there is a price, like having bits of your soul and bits of the borrowed soul mingling in ways that don't quite leave you the same after the experience. Like any drug, people chase that high, that release from their mundane lives and quickly become addicted.
From beginning to end I was enraptured with Borrowed Souls and the magic it presented. Callie and Derek were perfect together and I found their personalities to be unique. These characters got shit done and they didn't screw around. Both are capable on their own, but together they created a formidable foe. Even though Callie was unwittingly drawn into this line of work in an effort to save her ungrateful lowlife of a brother, she stood tall and faced her issues head on. I loved Derek's protectiveness from the get go and even though we don't really find out his story in this one, the groundwork is laid for future books and hopefully more of why he's so indebted to the Soul Charmer. Callie's fierce loyalty to her family was awesome even if a little questionable. Those people do not deserve her at all and it hurt my heart every time their stupidity cut her a little more. Derek, however, proved his worth time and again and I just adore them together.
I am so excited for another book from this world! I have high hopes for this series and this author. PLEASE GIVE ME MORE!!!
I give Borrowed Souls by Chelsea Mueller 5 stars!
May 1, 2019
This may be the next series that grabs me and doesn't let go until the series ends. I've been looking for characters and world-building to match what I loved in Ilona Andrews Kate Daniel's series which ended last year.
The author's dedication was an indicator that I was in the right place. "For my parents (Sorry for all the swearing.)"
I read in a description that this is dark urban fantasy. Though I appreciate the warning I didn't find it to be dark in the ways that would deter me from reading, such as gratuitous violence and gore.
What I really liked about this book:
Great world-building within the culture of Gem City and their unusual emphasis on how they care for their souls. Soul rental for the purpose of sinning without getting the soul dirty, uh, hello! Characters who don't return the souls on time and have to have them collected? I demanded more from the author and she gave it to me.
The MC, Callie. She's accessible and flawed. Gorgeous, sexy, sassy, smart, and messed up in what I think are redeemable ways or I wouldn't want to keep reading about her.
The hero/enforcer, Derek. Yum. The way he and Callie support one another makes my romantic heart skip a beat. I want to bring him to life and...you know.
Mueller's promise to the reader to bring more, more, more of her fresh voice to UF with this series.
So much room to expand the story of how Callie came to where she is in this book, renting a soul to save her questionable brother. I want to know more about his role in Gem City and I trust this author to give him a compelling one.
The Charmer who is anything but. He is creepy in a way that makes me want to read more about him, and I'll be honest, I want to see Callie in a boss battle with him when she gets a handle on the soul magic he tricked into her.
A hint of romance, because as much as I love fantasy I will choose one with a romance over one without one faster than a dragon scents gold.
Why four stars and not five? I had trouble connecting to the story at first. I had to get to know the world and the characters to get invested and that didn't happen right away.
Onto the next, Rogue Souls: Magic, murder, and rented souls.
The author's dedication was an indicator that I was in the right place. "For my parents (Sorry for all the swearing.)"
I read in a description that this is dark urban fantasy. Though I appreciate the warning I didn't find it to be dark in the ways that would deter me from reading, such as gratuitous violence and gore.
What I really liked about this book:
Great world-building within the culture of Gem City and their unusual emphasis on how they care for their souls. Soul rental for the purpose of sinning without getting the soul dirty, uh, hello! Characters who don't return the souls on time and have to have them collected? I demanded more from the author and she gave it to me.
The MC, Callie. She's accessible and flawed. Gorgeous, sexy, sassy, smart, and messed up in what I think are redeemable ways or I wouldn't want to keep reading about her.
The hero/enforcer, Derek. Yum. The way he and Callie support one another makes my romantic heart skip a beat. I want to bring him to life and...you know.
Mueller's promise to the reader to bring more, more, more of her fresh voice to UF with this series.
So much room to expand the story of how Callie came to where she is in this book, renting a soul to save her questionable brother. I want to know more about his role in Gem City and I trust this author to give him a compelling one.
The Charmer who is anything but. He is creepy in a way that makes me want to read more about him, and I'll be honest, I want to see Callie in a boss battle with him when she gets a handle on the soul magic he tricked into her.
A hint of romance, because as much as I love fantasy I will choose one with a romance over one without one faster than a dragon scents gold.
Why four stars and not five? I had trouble connecting to the story at first. I had to get to know the world and the characters to get invested and that didn't happen right away.
Onto the next, Rogue Souls: Magic, murder, and rented souls.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2019
Callie is an enabler who is about to do something dangerous and illegal in order to rescue her brother from the bad guys over a drug debt. She also has an enabling and toxic relationship with her mother than plays into the story. It involves going to the Soul Charmer to borrow a soul - letting another soul enter your body which helps confuse cameras, DNA, and fingerprints (making soul borrowing a favorite of criminals) and also lets the sin of the act fall on the borrowed soul instead of your own (begrudgingly approved by the Catholic Church). She has to work for the Soul Charmer for 2 weeks to afford the borrowed soul, putting her in league with the Charmer's repo man who also becomes a love interest.
If the author had given me a typed copy of this book as her first draft for me to be an early reader, I would have honestly said it is amazing. Solid first draft with intriguing if something unlikable characters, interesting world, good pacing and ending. Then, I would have written up a significant number of questions for editing that truly needed to be answered for the world to make sense. What happens if you die with 2 souls? If your own soul stays in your body at the same time as the borrowed one, how does the sin know to attach to the borrowed one or it mess with fingerprints and DNA? The laws, policing, and criminal side of this isn't clear - explain? Doesn't the church give absolution with confession so what point is borrowing another soul? Do the people who sell their souls die? Fade away? Going on living as usual? This one thing is what Callie's brother is holding over her head after all this time? Seriously? To her credit, Mueller does touch on a few of these but not enough to make the points work in a believable way. These are just a few of the many, many parts of the book that just didn't make enough sense to make for a complete or compelling story. Add in some lack of character development and a few TSTL moments, and this makes a fabulous first draft that some excellent editing, about 50 more pages, and maybe 1 good re-write would have made a 5 star book. I don't think I'll read book 2.
If the author had given me a typed copy of this book as her first draft for me to be an early reader, I would have honestly said it is amazing. Solid first draft with intriguing if something unlikable characters, interesting world, good pacing and ending. Then, I would have written up a significant number of questions for editing that truly needed to be answered for the world to make sense. What happens if you die with 2 souls? If your own soul stays in your body at the same time as the borrowed one, how does the sin know to attach to the borrowed one or it mess with fingerprints and DNA? The laws, policing, and criminal side of this isn't clear - explain? Doesn't the church give absolution with confession so what point is borrowing another soul? Do the people who sell their souls die? Fade away? Going on living as usual? This one thing is what Callie's brother is holding over her head after all this time? Seriously? To her credit, Mueller does touch on a few of these but not enough to make the points work in a believable way. These are just a few of the many, many parts of the book that just didn't make enough sense to make for a complete or compelling story. Add in some lack of character development and a few TSTL moments, and this makes a fabulous first draft that some excellent editing, about 50 more pages, and maybe 1 good re-write would have made a 5 star book. I don't think I'll read book 2.
October 4, 2017
It's so much fun to discover a new author as well as a really good new series. That is the case with "Borrowed Souls." Imagine living in a world where you can earn money by renting out your soul or where you could rent someone else's so that you could take a walk on the wild side. The only problem is that this could get addictive and finishes your soul a little each time.
Calliope or Callie has a drug addicted brother who works off his debt with the mob. Mommy Dearest isn't much better and certainly waa never a contender for mother of the year, month or day. Yet, Callie has mastered one rule of life all too well, take care of your own. So when Callie walks into the creepy little shop of The Collector to rent a soul she wasn't expecting to have to work for him by collecting souls for two weeks.
Callie knows nothing of soul collecting and that is why the Collector has set her up to work with a giant man of few words names, Derek. Callie quickly learns that Derek is a man of his word. So when he says he will keep her safe he means just that. Soon, they become close and Callie realizes that she has one more person she would do anything for. The question is will she be able to live with herself when this is all over?
This was a wonderful new world of fun with a totally unique plot and creatively written characters. I truly enjoyed this read and was not surprised when the author sent out a special acknowledgement to one of my favorite authors, Stacia Kane. Any author Ms. Kane endorses has to be good! What is even more impressive is that this is this author's first book. One thing is certain, there will more great reads to come from this author and I can't wait to read them!
Calliope or Callie has a drug addicted brother who works off his debt with the mob. Mommy Dearest isn't much better and certainly waa never a contender for mother of the year, month or day. Yet, Callie has mastered one rule of life all too well, take care of your own. So when Callie walks into the creepy little shop of The Collector to rent a soul she wasn't expecting to have to work for him by collecting souls for two weeks.
Callie knows nothing of soul collecting and that is why the Collector has set her up to work with a giant man of few words names, Derek. Callie quickly learns that Derek is a man of his word. So when he says he will keep her safe he means just that. Soon, they become close and Callie realizes that she has one more person she would do anything for. The question is will she be able to live with herself when this is all over?
This was a wonderful new world of fun with a totally unique plot and creatively written characters. I truly enjoyed this read and was not surprised when the author sent out a special acknowledgement to one of my favorite authors, Stacia Kane. Any author Ms. Kane endorses has to be good! What is even more impressive is that this is this author's first book. One thing is certain, there will more great reads to come from this author and I can't wait to read them!
May 2, 2017
PJV Quickie: Borrowed Souls is a dark, gritty story built on the fascinating premise of soul renting and features a single-minded heroine who will do anything to protect her family. I really liked the characters and storyline, and while I wouldn’t consider it a cliffhanger, Ms. Meuller left just enough of a teaser to make me want more!
Review:
Borrowed Souls is the debut urban fantasy novel from Vampire Book Club founder Chelsea Mueller. She’s been blogging about books for a few years, so if you think she’d have a pretty good handle on writing one, you’d be right. She jumps right in with the first sentence:
“Callie Delgado needed a soul.”
Callie Delgado’s brother is an addict, and she’s not done bailing him out of his problems yet. She’s hoping he’s finally hit rock bottom, but I’m pretty sure this isn’t it. In order to get him out of trouble with the mob – alive – Callie’s got to borrow a soul to commit a crime. Apparently, renting souls isn’t cheap, so Callie has to work for the Soul Charmer to pay for the rental. Enter Derek, an enforcer for the Soul Charmer. He’s big, quiet, and no-nonsense. And maybe a little sexy, but Callie’s got to work with him for two weeks so she’s not going to notice that.
As Callie and Derek go about the business of collecting overdue soul rentals, a recurring theme emerges – the souls are missing. Callie and Derek must figure out where the souls are going and why, while at the same time Callie is under increasing pressure from the mob that’s holding her brother hostage.
What I liked:
1. I love that Callie’s uncomfortable and unsure about what to do for the Soul Charmer, and that he really, really creeps her out.
2. The characters and the worldbuilding are pretty descriptive; I have a good, solid image in my mind while I’m reading.
3. I like how Callie’s relationship with Derek started slow and they didn’t just fall into bed.
4. The mystery of the missing souls is interesting; I want to know more about the ‘bigger picture’.
What I didn’t like:
1. The concept of soul renting was a bit confusing, and while I think it’s cool, I still don’t understand it and I’m hoping we’ll learn more.
2. I found it frustrating that Callie wouldn’t tell her brother no.
3. I would have liked to see more positive representation of female characters, most of them were pretty awful.
Overall, Borrowed Souls was an interesting take on the urban fantasy genre and I’m looking forward to reading more in the Soul Charmer series. If you’re looking for something a little different in the urban fantasy genre that’s sexy but not sex-filled, I’d recommend Borrowed Souls.
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