It’s always a concern when a vampire wants to report a dead body, especially when that vampire is Ming Zhane of Glass, the Master of the City of Knoxville. Nell Ingram, an agent with Unit Eighteen of the Psychometric Law Enforcement Division (aka PsyLED) and a paranormal being herself is specifically requested by Ming and she isn’t taking any chances. Vampires have been acting odder than usual lately and things are about to take an even stranger turn as Nell and Unit Eighteen are about to learn a lot more about vampire history as well as Nell’s convoluted family history.

RIFT IN THE SOUL is the sixth book in the Soulwood series and should be read in the context of the series as a whole. The history of the characters and their relationships, as well as Nell’s status with God’s Cloud of Glory Church, are imperative to understanding and enjoying the events of RIFT IN THE SOUL. Even more importantly, Faith Hunter delves further into Nell’s powers as a plant woman and the role the church played in developing those powers. RIFT IN THE SOUL references events and characters from the Jane Yellowrock series as well since both series take place in the same world. While it helps to know a bit about Jane and her rise to power, it isn’t necessary to fully enjoy RIFT IN THE SOUL- although I suspect RIFT IN THE SOUL will whet your appetite for more of Faith Hunter’s fabulous world!

Nell is one of my favorite paranormal beings. Not only is she unique as a plant woman, but her common sense coupled with her determination to help others rise above their own challenges make her admirable. I love seeing her take control of her powers as she learns and grows. Her love for her family despite their flaws is heartwarming but it is her newfound made-family, Unit Eighteen, that I enjoy the most. And oh… who can’t help but love her warm, caring relationship with her werecat fiancé, Occam? Occam knows just how to support and protect Nell without smothering her and the scenes between them are always fun.

RIFT IN THE SOUL is yet another fabulous urban fantasy tale from Faith Hunter. Readers who love both the typical shapeshifters, witches and vampires as well as ones who like more unusual paranormal beings will greatly appreciate the depth and creativity of Faith Hunter’s fantastic series. RIFT IN THE SOUL is a must-read for urban fantasy readers and I can’t wait to see what is in store next for Nell and the rest of Unit Eighteen!