Half a Soul

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Half a Soul

by Atwater, Olivia

Theodora Ettings is a woman of intellect and sharp observation, but after a childhood encounter with a faerie left her missing half of her soul, she lacks the ability to feel fear or social anxiety. This makes her a social pariah in Regency England, where her bluntness is seen as a peculiar defect. When she sets out to find a cure for her condition, she encounters the prickly, arrogant Lord Sorcier, Elias Wilder. Their dynamic is pure friction and wit, set against a backdrop where the whims of the fae bleed into the rigid politeness of the ton. The reading experience feels like a warm cup of tea laced with a dash of dark, otherworldly mischief. It is perfect for readers who want a romance that prioritizes emotional growth and clever dialogue over grand spectacle.

10 Books similar to 'Half a Soul'

If the blend of Regency manners and faerie mischief in this story left you wanting more, our curated list focuses on the intersection of rigid social structures and the unpredictable nature of magic. We chose these titles because they echo that specific sense of wonder, whether through the scholarly faerie research found in Emily Wilde or the witty, character-driven social commentary in Soulless. Each of these books captures the same cozy yet dangerous atmosphere, offering a mix of slow-burn romances and outsiders navigating worlds that operate by rules far stranger than their own.

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Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot
Sorcery & Cecelia: or The Enchanted Chocolate Pot

by Patricia C. Wrede and Caroline Stevermer

Like 'Half a Soul,' this book perfectly blends Regency manners with whimsical magical elements and witty banter. It captures that same delightful, lighthearted, yet adventurous spirit of high-society ladies navigating a world where magic is just as important as a good reputation.

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

by Susanna Clarke

If you enjoyed the faerie lore and the atmospheric, historical setting of Atwater's work, this is the definitive masterpiece of Regency-era magical literature. It offers a deeper, more scholarly exploration of the hidden world of English magic that influenced the genre.

A Marvellous Light
A Marvellous Light

by Freya Marske

This book offers a similar blend of historical setting and magical intrigue, featuring a slow-burn romance that feels just as satisfying as Theodora and Elias's journey. It balances the rigid expectations of Edwardian society with a dangerous, hidden magical underbelly.

The House in the Cerulean Sea
The House in the Cerulean Sea

by TJ Klune

While set in a different time period, this book shares the exact same 'cozy fantasy' heart and focus on characters who feel like outsiders due to their differences. It echoes the gentle, hopeful, and slightly whimsical tone that makes 'Half a Soul' so beloved.

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Stardust
Stardust

by Neil Gaiman

This classic tale captures the same sense of wonder and danger found in the faerie realms of Atwater's writing. It follows a protagonist venturing into a magical land, dealing with the whims of fae creatures who operate by rules very different from our own.

Soulless
Soulless

by Gail Carriger

Fans of the witty, socially-conscious Regency-style fantasy will adore this steampunk romp featuring a heroine who lacks a soul—or rather, lacks supernatural abilities. It is incredibly funny, fast-paced, and features a strong, unconventional female lead navigating polite society.

Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries
Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries

by Heather Fawcett

This book is a perfect match for readers who loved the faerie research and folklore elements of 'Half a Soul.' It features a brilliant but socially awkward protagonist who must navigate the treacherous, beautiful rules of the fae world while managing a burgeoning romance.

Shades of Milk and Honey
Shades of Milk and Honey

by Mary Robinette Kowal

This is a quintessential 'Regency fantasy of manners' that focuses on the quiet, domestic power of magic. Like Atwater's work, it prioritizes character development and emotional stakes over high-octane action, creating a deeply intimate reading experience.

The Goblin Emperor
The Goblin Emperor

by Katherine Addison

If you loved the themes of navigating social expectations and feeling like an outsider in a world that doesn't understand you, this book is a must-read. It is a gentle, character-driven story about kindness and resilience within a complex, rigid court structure.

Ten Thousand Doors of January
Ten Thousand Doors of January

by Alix E. Harrow

This novel captures the same lyrical, slightly melancholic, and magical atmosphere found in the best parts of 'Half a Soul.' It explores the idea of hidden doorways and forgotten worlds with a beautiful, character-focused prose style that readers of Atwater will appreciate.