Rating: 5/5

Following the captivating debut of Moths and Moonlight, Krista Fazendin returns with The Soulkeeper’s Bargain, the second installment of her Fleur Harkyn mysteries. Despite the first novel setting high expectations, this sequel does not disappoint. Like its predecessor, the story revolves around a murder, but it’s even more engrossing, with refined prose and richer worldbuilding.

The narrative picks up where the first book left off, as Fleur embarks on a new investigation into the mysterious death of Birdy, her former best friend from Evirdahl, who unexpectedly appears in Mundad. An intriguing twist involving the titular Soulkeeper shakes up familiar characters, adding another layer of excitement. Much of the story unfolds in Mundad and the Inbetween, with the latter serving as the backdrop for much of the book’s adventure. Characters from the first novel are given greater depth, and we are introduced to new beings from various realms, expanding the magical world Fazendin is meticulously crafting.

Fazendin has clearly taken strides to address some of the shortcomings of her debut. The story features more magic than spy thriller elements, and where the latter does appear, she deftly bridges the gap by appealing to reality. A case in point is how Fleur’s expertise in burglary is attributed to YouTube, which does not fully resolve the incongruity but nevertheless adds a layer of relatability and humor to the fantastical setting. The motivations of key characters are explored more deeply in this installment, making them more compelling and memorable.

This novel invites readers to immerse themselves in Fleur’s world, delving into her relationships across Mundad, Evirdahl, and the Inbetween. Fazendin skillfully ties these realms together through her protagonist, enhancing the series' already rich worldbuilding. Additionally, she lays the groundwork for future mysteries, such as the origins of Fleur’s mother and the enigma surrounding Mundad’s relic, leaving readers eager for the next installment.

The Soulkeeper’s Bargain is a thrilling and cohesive read from an imaginative writer, highly recommended for fans of young adult fantasy. I eagerly anticipate returning to this enchanting world when the third book is released.

This review was first published on Reedsy Discover on 17 August 2024.

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