Elaine White's Life in Books

Book – The Foxling Soldati (Soldati Hearts #2)
Author – Charlie Cochet
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 102
Cover – Stunning!
POV – 3rd person, dual POV
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – LGBT, Shifter, Fantasy


** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine



*Warnings: there are a few, that I wasn't really prepared for. There is on page violence, beatings, vocal threats of rape, drugging, manipulation and false allegations. Nothing is too brutally on page, though a few incidents definitely made me squirm.*


Wow! I feel like I've just read some huge 300+ page novel for the serious feels it's left me with. For all the twists and turns, the shocks and the amount of plot that managed to fit so comfortably into 102 pages, it's almost unbelieveable.

I'll admit, I went back to re-read book 1, before starting this, because I love seeing how they link together and reminding myself of how hit all started. Reading them back-to-back is the best way to do that. It reminded me of how much I loved Toka as a character, in book 1, but it also made me appreciate the presence of Riley and Khalon in this book, all the more. Because, although it wasn't their book, they had as much of a presence here as Toka and Rayner had in book 1, as side characters. And, I love that. It's definitely a sign that this series (and this author) doesn't see any “minor” character as mere filler, but as a real potential for a solid, recurring character, which is really great to see and all the better for those of us who want to follow each book from one to the other. When you binge read a series, like I do (often in the same day/week) then you notice these small things and I love them. It makes the characters all the more natural, relatable and important, even if all they ever do is make a brief appearance now and then. Like Ezra and Segreti, who I hope will be the focus of the next book in the series.

What gutted me – amongst the many things – was that Rayner and Toka's love for each other was so obvious that, a year ago, in book 1, Riley spotted it on his first day. Yet, Khalon had no inclination to change the laws to allow them to be together and no one ever realised that Rayner wasn't just using him as a fling. Yet, they'd sneak away for kisses and to be together, just because it was the only way they could do it without drawing unnecessary attention and constant reminders that they couldn't be together. I loved how much Riley fought for them and that he wanted them to be happy, beyond anything else, giving Toka enough hope that he fought through all the bad stuff that was thrown at him here.

There was more sexual content, than in book 1, but it felt a bit more natural, considering Rayner and Toka have known each other for such a long time and have spent so long sneaking away together. It definitely fit the characters, to have intimacy and flirtations from page one, whereas it would never have felt natural in book 1. I actually loved the chemistry between these two, because it was so settled and comfortable. They were happy being open and honest with each other, with hoping for more and fighting for that chance to be together. They're flirtatious, charming, secretive and completely innocent with each other, in ways that are utterly adorable. I love that Rayner is set up to be the dominant male, with the seductive qualities that no one can resist and a past as a bit of a player, but I also love that he comes apart for Toka, that he's more gentle and caring, that he's more romantic with someone he has true affection for. In the same way, I loved that Toka was supposed to be the shy, sweet, naive servant being pounced on by a superior rank, but he's not shy to admit how he feels, nor to be sensual and flirtatious back, when it comes to Rayner. Most of all, I love that they think their time together is limited, but they're willing to make the absolute most of it that they can.

Now, I have a lot to say about the plot, but I really can't say it without giving away a huge plot spoiler, so I'm going to keep it short and simple and hope it still makes sense, without ruining the surprise.

Pavoni is all those words that an Amazon review won't allow. Mostly, the one beginning with a B, although adding in the F word wouldn't go amiss, either.
It made me cry. Because it was hard to read, I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the worst to happen and every time it didn't, I felt like I stopped breathing for a minute.
Toka is the bravest little foxling I've ever seen.
When Rayner says “You are better than all of us.” he couldn't be more right. Except for maybe Riley, who is definitely on equal par with Toka, in that regard.
I absolutely hated Khalon for a total of two minutes.

Overall, a fantastic continuation of the series and one that I'm looking forward to following into more books in the future.

~

Favourite Quotes

““Rayner….” Although his heart was breaking, Toka summoned a smile. “Should the worst come to pass, then I will die happy, knowing I have your affections, having been touched by your hands and kissed by your lips. Knowing you would have me as your mate if you could…. It’s more than I could have hoped for.””

“Forgive me for being a coward . For not confessing my love sooner. Now it comes the eve before I lose you, forever. I thought we had more time. I was never in any rush, believing I had forever with you. I believed I had time to confess my growing affection, my love. Time to change Khalon’s mind about that insufferable law. Time to memorize every dip and curve of your body. A lifetime of seeing your beautiful face, of cherishing your timid smile and those radiant eyes.” He wrinkled his nose as he tried to remain in control of his emotions. “I can’t do this. I can’t let you go.””