ARC Review: Borrowed Souls by Chelsea Mueller

“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.”
~ Under the Covers

Chelsea Mueller wrote of a world where souls are harnessed by magic and sometimes used for personal gain. In this world, souls are used to hide or protect one’s soul from getting tainted from doing something inappropriate, immoral or illegal. Mueller’s heroine, Callie is caught in her brother’s dangerous world to save his sorry ass. Needing a soul herself and not having the money for it, Callie has to work for a Soul Charmer. The downside; the risk is high. Upside; she’ll be working with the ruthlessly sexy Derek who is also very alpha.

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.