As a new entrant into Thomas K. Carpenter's Hundred Halls series, I didn't really know what to expect from Song of Siren and Blood. Browsing Amazon, I saw the multitude of novels set in his universe, and got slightly nervous; I've jumped into series in the middle before and usually end up disappointed by call-backs and a lack of prior required knowledge. Happily, Carpenter's approach worked well, with information readily available through the opening of the story that lead me quickly to understanding of this massive universe he's created. The plot moves along at a good pace, and the character development driven storyline trickles enough intrigue to the reader to keep keep you interested without constant scenes of action and world-changing events. I'm planning on checking out more of Carpenter's prior works, and look forward to seeing what else he's placed in his fantastical, modern world.

4.5⭐️ I’m so glad that I requested and was approved for the ARC because I feel as if I have accidentally tripped into a world I didn’t know existed and I do not want to leave.
The world-building and magic system were a little confusing to me, I felt as if I was missing some information throughout the beginning of the book and I think that it is in part because of there are some many books in the Hundred Halls world that I have no read. That is why for me, it was not a 5/5 read because as it was the first in the series under the world in regards to the Stone Singer series. I wish there had been a bit more detail in regards to the magic system for those readers coming into this as the first book.
I have to say, the storyline for the was a bit twisted, but in such an intriguing way. When they say someone is old soul, the literal definition should be Minerva as Moriganne.
I think it was very important that we got some background to Minerva before she took the job and got swept away, but it was only enough to keep us guessing. And man, did I want to know? What was with the tiara? Why was such a revered singer ousted? This story brought those answers while also bringing to life a deeply caring person who was lonely and a bit lost. As Minerva stepped into her life, it was very interesting to see how she formed relationships with Morigannes family while also learning firsthand everything that Moriganne knows and how her relationships fair.
I found this to be a great display of urban high fantasy and I cannot wait for more. Which also means diving into the other completed series in the Hundred Halls collection.