Nothing says you can’t steal a heart. Keeping it though? That’s another problem.

Wade Espinoza knows a thing or two about hoards. As a dragon, he’s got plenty. What he doesn’t have is a relationship, and he swears he’s not looking for one. But when he’s sent to Boston to answer a cry for help from another pack, he’s drawn into a mess of fae bargains centered around a selkie who Wade instantly becomes obsessed with.

Riordan Maguire is struggling to keep his selkie clan out of the clutches of a fae lord who will do anything to take over their territory. Partnering with the Boston god pack means coming face-to-face with the first person he’s ever wanted to willingly give his sealskin. Too bad Wade isn’t local and is something altogether strange that Riordan isn’t sure he can trust.

Amidst a growing danger in the streets and Boston Harbor, Wade and Riordan are desperate to find a way to keep everyone safe. For bargains are dangerous things to break, but so are hearts. Wade isn’t willing to shatter either of theirs in a race against time that could see Riordan torn from him forever.

How was it?

Secondhand Skin, is THE novel I wanted from the Soulbound Universe because Wade is one of my favorite characters in the series. This book is captivating and has quite a bit of action despite not having a world-ending threat in it. The story brilliantly expands on the lives of familiar characters while introducing new dynamics.

One of my favorite aspects of this novel is seeing what’s become of other beloved characters from the series, especially after the glimpse we had in Resurrection Reprise. Turner provides fantastic updates, from Jono to Casale, and gives us a fuller idea of what they’ve been up to since A Veiled & Hallowed Eve with some surprising news that longtime fans will appreciate. The way these familiar faces pop up adds layers to the narrative, weaving Wade’s personal growth into the larger Soulbound tapestry.

Now older, I see shades of both Patrick and Jono in Wade’s personality—his sharp wit is often reminiscent of Patrick’s trademark responses, and his caring and loyal ways are so Jono. While Wade’s past trauma is carefully explored throughout the book, Turner balances the darker moments with an overall positive energy, ensuring the horrors he endured don’t overshadow the story’s heartwarming progress. It’s handled with care, offering just enough background to understand Wade’s journey without feeling weighed down by it.

As for Wade’s dragon abilities, the novel is full of fascinating reveals, offering insight into what makes him such a unique and powerful character. His abilities are explored in engaging ways, it kept me eager to see how he’ll handle the rising threats in Boston.

When it comes to the naissant relationship between Wade and Riordan, the subtle yet deeply meaningful ways Turner telegraphs Wade’s affection is so sweet. Turner doesn’t rely on big, dramatic gestures to show their growing bond; instead, she uses simple, quiet moments to show just how much Riordan means to Wade. It’s an exciting and somewhat rewarding development for fans who have been invested in Wade’s journey since the weight of these simple moments are really felt.

Overall, Secondhand Skin is an exciting and satisfying addition to the Soulbound Universe, packed with magic, danger, and heart. Whether you’re drawn in by Wade’s journey, the romantic tension with Riordan, or the rich, magical world-building, this standalone novel is sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.

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