Soul Hate by Hannah Kingsley is a fresh take on fated pairings. Kingsley crafts a new world that feels foreign and intriguing with enough familiarity to feel entirely plausible. Rife with political intrigue, Soul Hate follows Renza, an enigmatic young politician striving to make her own way and advocate for her people, as she grapples with duty, grief, love, and wholly consuming Fate-ordained hatred for her political rival Idris Patricelli. Readers will fall in love with Renza and her people, I can't wait for the next opportunity to dive back into this world!

3.75 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I wanted to love this book. The title drew me in— the play on soul mate. I always love a good enemies to lovers. The concept of this book is intriguing over all— soul mate vs soul hate. There’s tension, angst , and a focus on the political dynamics of the world/ characters. This story has so much potential, and I can appreciate the creativity and effort the author put into this work. I would read from this author again.

I picked up this book purely based on the vibes — the description sounded intriguing, and the cover is absolutely stunning. Unfortunately, despite the interesting premise, the story didn’t quite deliver for me.

The book follows Renza di Maineri, the youngest elected leader in her city, who is determined to prove herself and escape her father’s shadow. But her world is turned upside down when she meets Idris Patricelli — her main political rival and her Soulhate, the person she’s fated to destroy. The more time she spends around him, the stronger her violent urges become, threatening her reputation, her leadership, and her grip on herself.

What I liked:

- The premise: The Soulhate concept was fascinating — true enemies with an almost uncontrollable urge to harm each other? That’s a bold twist on the soulmate trope.

- The setting: A faux-Italian world with Italian-inspired names and locations. It made me chuckle, especially since I read most of this while on holiday in Italy.

- The cover: I can’t stress enough how gorgeous cover art is to me.

What didn’t work for me:

- Characterisation: The story is told in first person from Renza’s perspective, but I struggled to connect with her. I found her frustrating, and the supporting characters — including the love interests — felt underdeveloped, making it hard to care about their dynamics.

- Pacing issues: The flow of the story felt inconsistent — either dragging or rushing through key events. Some pivotal moments were so abruptly written that I had to reread sections, thinking I’d missed something.

- Believability: An 18-year-old as a seasoned parliament member? Sure, why not.

- The ending: I didn’t realise this would be a series, so reaching the end without much resolution was a bit of a letdown.

Overall, this book had potential, but the execution fell short for me. However, if you enjoy YA fantasy with a unique enemies dynamic and don’t mind an open-ended conclusion, it might still be worth a try.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Confession time- when I first read the plot of this book, I swore it was a published fanfic. Full of the classic tropes that haunt fanfiction (soulmates!!!), it can be a little disconcerting in moments. The info-dump during the beginning chapters is done a little rapidly- I had to go back and consult details from it several times. The veritable parade of characters can be overwhelming at times. It's not perfect- far from it, in fact, but the story is just so charming that you forget about its' imperfections.
At times, I found the book meandered on certain narrative arcs, particularly around the political relations between the Maineri and Patricelli families. The intricacies of these alliances and betrayals are clearly well thought out but the story lingers too long on these elements, to the point where it disrupts the pacing. For readers eager to explore the emotional development between these characters, the frequent detours into politics may come across as unnecessary or distracting.
The mind-blowing twists, however, were something to behold, and completely changed my opinion of Idris's character.
Renza is a standout protagonist—intelligent, fierce, and determined. Her journey navigating the treacherous politics of Halice while wrestling with the primal urge to destroy Idris is fascinating. The political drama in the book is brilliantly executed, and Kingsley does an incredible job of painting a picture of a city filled with power struggles, moral ambiguity, and shifting alliances. Kingsley has a gift with the intricacies of worldbuilding, constantly drawing in readers with vivid depictions of far-away lands. The scope of her world felt fully realised, vast and foreign compared to the growing familiarity of Halice.
At times, Soul Hate really makes you question whether destiny can truly define relationships, or if free will can change your fate.
Fans of politically charged fantasy with morally gray characters and intricate world-building will absolutely devour Soul Hate. If you're looking for a book that combines political intrigue with unique twist on the romance genre, then Soul Hate is a must-read. Kingsley has created something truly special, and I can't wait to see where the story goes next.

3.5 stars.

Everyone has a soulmate and a soulhate. Soulmates are associated with intense feeling of love but soulhates are associated with a burning rage that almost blinds them. Of course, there is no guarantees that the paths cross of either one. BUT if the soulhates do cross paths... The typical way to handle soulhates is to have a duel to the death. There are stories of those that fight fate, but they don't have good outcomes.

Renza is a strong willed, clever girl that loves her city, Halice, and serves as an elected leader.
Idris is a... shoot, I don't know how to explain him. Highly educated... thoughtful... takes control of his life... passionate about Halice also.
Both of their families are widely respected throughout Halice so when these two become recognized as soulhates, they have to work together without killing one another to maintain their reputations.

This book is mainly political intrigue which was not what I was expecting, so it took a little bit of time to settle into that. Once I did, I was fully invested.
The premise of the story is wonderful. I would have liked to have had some dual POV to know what's going on in Idris head because some things just don't quite make sense and I'm unsure why. I feel like his perspective could have helped iron that out.
The pacing is steady throughout, but the end just... came fast. It feels like pieces were missing.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for an advanced reader copy of this book.

What a nice and unique concept has Hannah Kingsley come up with! The idea of soul mates in fantasy/romantasy books is not new (but still concept I love to read) but Hannah here introduces a counterpart, a soulhate, a person you are destined to destroy. In the world Hannah created each person has god given soulmate and soulhate, and her story focus on Renza (FMC) who meets her soulhate Irids (MMC). Both are children of political leaders within the same city, who run in the same political circles now.

I enjoyed the nuances Hannah managed to put in the book and how she plays with the ideas of soulmates and soulhates and how those fates might not be as straightforward as we think. This really made the story work in my opinion.

There are quite a few plot twists in the book, however some of them were quite predictable. The political system that Hannah created was neat and interesting and I am looking forward to learn more about that.

My biggest flaw with this book is however that it is marketed as a romantasy, and while I can definitely see it developing in one in book 2 (fingers crossed), this book falls in my opinion more under a political fantasy with a romance subplot that mostly starts around 2/3 of the book. But I see the potential for the romance to develop more later. Moreover, I hope that in the next book we will have some chapters from the point of view of Irids as I feel that this could have strengthened the book a lot.

But all in all I think this is a good start of a new series that will fall well with fans of books such as the Cruel prince or Shatter me.

3.5 stars from me :)

DNF at 20%. I can see some people liking this but the world building isn’t gripping whatsoever and it was hard to get into because of the writing.

DNF at 10%

I did not like all the politics in the beginning of the book. It was too much for my liking, and couldnt get past it.

I know the book is YA, but it gave major YA writing vibes which I'm not the biggest fan of. This book has good potential for the right reader.

Thank you, NetGalley so much for the eARC and opportunity!

I did enjoy this book and I thought the writing was really good. But this was way too political for me, I wanted more fantasy/romance elements but it just didn’t do it for me.

I did like the writing style though and it flowed well. I would definitely read more from this author. I may reread this as I have been in a big book slump so will try again and see if my opinion changes when I’m not feeling slumpy :).

For a debut novel this had some really good things: the idea about soul hate and the premise of the story. The moment I read the synopsis I wanted to get my hands on this!

I enjoyed the political aspect of the book although I didn't quite expect there would be so much of it, but it was the best part and what kept me reading. However, we very quickly came to problems that made me give this three stars: the confusing time period. My mind kept putting it into ancient Roman times, but then we had modern stuff and ideology that just confused the heck out of me. Second thing is that sadly the main pairing comes together way late in the book and without knowing this wasn't a standalone, that was also really confusing. And... Sadly, I didn't like our FMC.

I also didn't vibe with the writing style but that's more of a personal preference, so that wasn't included in the rating. I wish I would have liked this more and be able to rate it higher because the original idea of a soul hate is just really really good.

First of all, thank you for an arc possiblity! I am forever grateful.
On to the review: this book could have been an EASY PEASY 5 star read. I loved and immediately applied when i saw 'What if you fall for the one you are destined to destroy?" IM SOLD. AMAZING.
I loved the introduction to our worldbuilding. You are destined to your soulmate and soulhate. One to marry one to kill. So far great. I could never asked for a better introduction.
Our characters were also doing fine(I guess?) Nuois would be as cute and protective as i wanted my male leads and Idris was the complete oppositte. Renza was also very smart and hardworking, being the youngest electi. LOVED HER CHARACTER!

But then things get slightly complicated when Idris and Renza are forced to work together. They could not stand each other. Want to destroy and rip each other's throats. And the way Nouis was acting? No suspicious AT ALL.

But come on. This was more about the politics and saving the city instead of the fates. If the worldbuilding is based on a magical myth, i would like to see how that develops. Unfortunately we got none of that except that it was tingling on their skin and they felt dizzy bla bla. I dont even know if they have actually fallen for each other. Have they? WHERE????

Lets assume they did, how does this affect the fate? Jusr because they eliminated the thread doesnt mean they are not soulhates anymore. What do you mean they will have to learn to live like that? Unfortunately it is sad that the author did not come up with a solution to that...

Talking about eliminating the threat, what was that ending... I loved the scene where Renze focused on the threat while Idris rang the bells but oh come on why would they leave it so unguarded if it was so important? I think the ending was slightly rushed and not clearly explained.
While that being said, there were so many unnecesary details.. Whats with the Askerler company? Just because they shut the gates they just turn around and go back? Sorry, not really realistic.

Lets unwind a little. I absolutely devoured this book. THough i would do some changes to clear up misunderstandings, it was overall a very nice read <<<333333

Hannah Kingsley delivers a compelling and unique fantasy with Soul Hate, weaving political intrigue, fate-driven conflict, and deeply emotional storytelling into a fascinating world. Easy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Renza di Maineri stands out as a protagonist. Instead of the familiar rebellious outcast that we typically see in books, Renza is a politician (so interesting!)— she’s young, determined, and navigating the challenges of leadership while trying to step out of her father’s shadow. Her journey is already complex, but it becomes even more volatile when she discovers her Soulhate: Idris Patricelli, her greatest rival and the person she is fated to kill. The tension between them is palpable, and their dynamic adds a captivating layer to the political stakes of the story.

The Soulmate vs. Soulhate concept is a fresh take on fate-driven narratives, and Kingsley executed is so well! 🙌
The novel’s world-building is immersive, with Halice feeling like a fully realized city, shaped by power struggles and deep-rooted traditions. The writing is beautifully done (I feel like I absolutely devoured this book!)- but I have to particularly shoutout the one scene at the library unveiling, as this was especially moving and I sobbed. 😭

With a gripping plot, complex characters, and an ending that leaves a lasting impact, Soul Hate is a standout addition to the fantasy genre. Please tell me a sequel is on the horizon because this story is far from over and I cannot wait to see what happens next!

DNF @10 %

I wanted to enjoy this book but the beginning was just way too political for me and i was not a fan of the writing.

Thank you for the arc!

DNF at 17%

I was expecting more of a romance/fantasy type read but this was just too much politics for me. I was struggling to get into it as I don't enjoy overly political books.

The writing was well done though and had this been more plot other than the politics I think I would have really enjoyed it.

Probably 3.5 ⭐
This premise was SO FUN! Seriously loved the idea of a Soulhate and the trials to go through working with someone that your body is trying to kill.
The romance was good, very minimal spice, great betrayal (even if it was easy to spot, it was still a great reveal!), but if I had to hear how hot it was one more time 🙄.
Overall, definitely recommend it, but go into it knowing it's not the best ever.

Thank you to the publisher for granting me access to an arc via netgalley! This was a very anticipated read for me, having followed Hannah for years due to her business, and have had the pleasure of both meeting her and being one of her reps - which will not be factored into my review of Soul Hate.

Soul Hate takes place in a universe where everyone has a Soul Mate, and a Soul Hate - basically the opposite of a soulmate, and makes the people want to kill the other, and historically there have even been soul hate battles to the death. I didn’t anticipate the rage between soul hates, it was much mire intense than I thought, but was pleasantly surprised!

Soul Hate follows Renza Di Marineri, who is an Electi, a leader of the city of Halice, the youngest one the city has seen. Unfortunately for Renza, her Soul Hate appears and chaos ensures and she must work together with her Soul Hate - who is also her political rival!!, to uncover what has happened in the city which has hurt the people closest to her.

I really enjoyed the plot, I thought the tension with the action was well written and I loved seeing Renza working with Idris, despite him being her Soul Hate and not fully trusting him! Speaking of Idris, the tension between these two!! Aah! I need more of it!! I definitely want there to be a twist of fate and they be both Soul Hates and Soul Mates, that would make things so complicated fand I would genuinely love it if that happened. In this world, soul hates and soul mates are fated, you can’t break that fate.

I feel like there could be a little more to this book, but this is the first in a trilogy so that is understandable and I am very much looking forward to the next book, especially as I feel like ther were some things left unresolved fully. This is a fab political enemies to lovers romantasy, with a badass female main character, who is not scared to stand up for what she believes in.


I enjoyed Soul Hate and I am giving it 4.25 stars. Also, I would like to say that I really like the cover!

I did enjoy this book however there were times I was a little confused and found it a little politics heavy. Personally it wasn’t for me however I know so many people will enjoy this book!

The story had great promise and I’d love to read more work from the author in the future.

2.5 ⭐

Thank you Netgalley for the e-ARC. This is my honest opinion.

I loved the prologue, but the rest... Not really.
I'll explain why;

Fast paced, enemies turn to lovers after approximately 100+ pages. There was a good plot twist, but sadly quite predictable. The political part was also rushed and no real motive was provided.

The idea had a lot of potential.

This had a lot of potential, but ultimately I feel like it fell short in its execution. It was very tough to get into in the beginning, so much so that I can see typical YA readers stopping before they got too far into the story. I wish things had been described and developed more.

Dziękuję NetGalley za egzemplarz do recenzji!

Oj, niestety, ogromny potencjał okazał się ogromnym zawodem! Bo dajcie spokój, widzieliście gdziekolwiek koncept duszo-nienawiści jako przeciwieństwa pokrewnych dusz? Ja nie i dlatego właśnie się nakręciłam! Dokładając do tego przepiękną okładkę, czego mogłam chcieć więcej?
Ano właśnie, żeby sam tekst był dobry. Powiem pokrótce: umiejscowienie tego świata w krainie stworzonej na kształt starożytnej Grecji i Rzymu oraz religii na podobieństwo chrześcijaństwa to nie wszystko, co trzeba zrobić w przypadku kreacji miejsca akcji. Wszystko to jest głównie z nazwy i tylko na założeniu się opiera. Ta książka nie ma kompletnie żadnego klimatu przez to, że autorka maksymalnie uwspółcześniła słownictwo i pewne zachowania bohaterów. Czy to grzech? Nie do końca, ale przez warstwę językową ciężko było uwierzyć w to, co próbowano pokazać. Czułam się tak, jakbym czytała o bandzie ziomeczków z tego wieku. Lubię językową przystępność, ale jest granica, której dobrze jest nie przekraczać.
Samo to, że w jednym momencie pada słowo gladiatorskie sandały na obcasie, a nawet nie wiadomo czy gladiatorzy tutaj istnieli 😆
Bohaterowie nijacy w swoim zróżnicowaniu. Mocna warstwa polityczna, sprzeczki na spotkaniach i otoczka podążania za wolą Ojca Przeznaczenia - to wychodziło na pierwszy plan. Nie jest to minus, ale w chwili, w której książka targetowana jest jako romantasy (widziałam więcej przypisań do tego motywu), a sam romans jest dość delikatnie zarysowany, to potencjalny czytelnik może poczuć rozczarowanie.
Mogłabym jeszcze mówić o Idrisie i Renzie, ale nie ma co się rozwodzić - w moich oczach ta książka była zwyczajnie słaba. Pod pewnymi aspektami przemyślana (jak ma wyglądać warstwa polityczna), pod wieloma napisana na leniwo (jeden z pierwszych obrządków modlitewnych był taki, że zmieniono tylko słowo Bóg na Ojciec Przeznaczenia i czujecie się jak w kościele; niedbałe podejście do wydarzeń sytuacyjnych, gadanie otwarcie o rzeczach które ze względu politycznych rozgrywek powinno się obgadać w domu, litości; bardzo luźne i współczesne podejście do picia, imprezowania, seksu) i wręcz z niedbałością. Może gdyby “Soul hate” zostało napisane na nowo, ale jednak z trzymaniem się faktu, że jest to jednak setting na kształt starożytności i trzeba jednak trochę przemyśleć słownictwo oraz styl wypowiedzi, książka by się sprawdziła. Ja niestety nie bawiłam się dobrze, zmęczyłam się i pewnie szybko zapomnę :(