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Soul of Shadow #3
Dreams of Ruin
Not yet published
Expected 17 Nov 26Love, magic, gods, and monsters collide in the thrilling conclusion to the Soul of Shadow trilogy!
When Charlie Hudson awakens after her Trial, it’s to find that nothing will ever be the same. The king of the gods is plotting to destroy Asgard. Charlie and her brother are trapped a world away from the people they love most. And worst of all, she’s become the very thing she hates a night mare.
Charlie’s transition is anything but smooth. Stuck in Helheim Palace, she must train her new shadow magic alongside dozens of soulless mares who would gladly turn her over to the enemy if they discovered she’s Loki’s true heir.
Her only hope is Elias Everhart, her once-sworn enemy who has somehow become one of her closest allies. He’s promised to help train her mare abilities—an easy idea in theory, if her magic weren’t malfunctioning… and if being near Elias didn’t make the darkness within Charlie grow bigger and more all consuming by the day. Charlie is in a race against time to reconcile the powers warring within her. Because if the threat on Asgard isn’t enough to kill her… love certainly will be.
In Dreams of Ruin, the only thing worse than becoming a night mare, is loving one.
Book one and two in the series - Soul of Shadow - are available now!
When Charlie Hudson awakens after her Trial, it’s to find that nothing will ever be the same. The king of the gods is plotting to destroy Asgard. Charlie and her brother are trapped a world away from the people they love most. And worst of all, she’s become the very thing she hates a night mare.
Charlie’s transition is anything but smooth. Stuck in Helheim Palace, she must train her new shadow magic alongside dozens of soulless mares who would gladly turn her over to the enemy if they discovered she’s Loki’s true heir.
Her only hope is Elias Everhart, her once-sworn enemy who has somehow become one of her closest allies. He’s promised to help train her mare abilities—an easy idea in theory, if her magic weren’t malfunctioning… and if being near Elias didn’t make the darkness within Charlie grow bigger and more all consuming by the day. Charlie is in a race against time to reconcile the powers warring within her. Because if the threat on Asgard isn’t enough to kill her… love certainly will be.
In Dreams of Ruin, the only thing worse than becoming a night mare, is loving one.
Book one and two in the series - Soul of Shadow - are available now!
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
432 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication November 17, 2026
About the author
Emma Noyes
11 books745 followersEmma Noyes is the author of HOW TO HIDE IN PLAIN SIGHT, GUY'S GIRL, and the Sunken City trilogy. The first book in her next YA romantasy series, SOUL OF SHADOW, comes out July 2025. She lives in Chicago with her Swedish husband and their accident-prone Pomeranian.
Author also writes under Emma V.R. Noyes
Author also writes under Emma V.R. Noyes
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 9, 2026
“Dreams of Ruin” is the third book and conclusion to the “Soul of Shadow” series. I did not enjoy this book as much as the others in the series. This may be common when all of the storylines need to be wrapped up and the “big fight” conclusion is nearing. The first half of this book felt slower, and many of my favorite characters (Henry) didn’t really make an appearance until the second half. All of these things made sense in the story but it was just missing the elements I enjoyed so much in the first two books. I love Charlie and Elias together and was happy to see their romance develop. Overall, this series was so fun and I can’t wait to see what Emma Noyes does next.
For those who love:
💜”The Vampire Diaries”
💜Norse Mythology
💜Contemporary Fantasy
💜Close Friend Group
💜Morally Gray Love Interest
💜Mysterious Magical World
💜Young Adult
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
For those who love:
💜”The Vampire Diaries”
💜Norse Mythology
💜Contemporary Fantasy
💜Close Friend Group
💜Morally Gray Love Interest
💜Mysterious Magical World
💜Young Adult
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Want to Read
February 3, 2026Cannot wait for this audiobook release! <3
April 14, 2026
Dreams of Ruin is the 3rd and final book in this series and I’m so sad that it’s over. Book #1 has truly become one of my favorite comfort reads. I now put the audiobook on in the background in the way that I used to have the vampire diaries on in the background (IYKYK). In some ways it seems unfair to rate this as 4 stars instead of 5, because book #1 was SO good it kinda distorts the rest of the series ratings 😅
The first half of this book was absolutely incredible and so addicting. The tension between Charlie and Elias. And of course the stress with Henry. I absolutely adored the character growth of Fenrir and Hel. I’m a sucker for a found family, and this book really made everyone come together in such a beautiful and satisfying way!
The ending of this book felt a bit rushed, and I’m curious if there’s going to be an expansion of this universe, because there totally could be 👀. The final scene was somehow both unpredictable, but also felt a little too easy or simple? Which is kind of a weird combination, but I just wish we got a little more to fully feel and appreciate the tension in that last scene!!
Favorite parts of this trilogy overall…
- The characters and their development was by far the best part of this series, and why it has stuck with me so much. I’m a sucker for a character driven book, and it’s not that this book had no plot because it absolutely did, but the characters are what I find myself thinking about all the time! Elias, Henry, Fenrir, and Hel 🩷 I want them on my team forever
- The relationship between both Charlie and Henry, and Charlie and Fenrir. My poor aching heart, I would sell my soul to have a companion like these guys 🥺
- The comedic moments in this series were top notch. Emma’s ability to insert a funny line in what is otherwise a very tense moment is insane. It feels so natural and true to the character’s personalities. This series is most certainly not a comedy, but yet I found myself laughing out loud in the most unexpected times
The first half of this book was absolutely incredible and so addicting. The tension between Charlie and Elias. And of course the stress with Henry. I absolutely adored the character growth of Fenrir and Hel. I’m a sucker for a found family, and this book really made everyone come together in such a beautiful and satisfying way!
The ending of this book felt a bit rushed, and I’m curious if there’s going to be an expansion of this universe, because there totally could be 👀. The final scene was somehow both unpredictable, but also felt a little too easy or simple? Which is kind of a weird combination, but I just wish we got a little more to fully feel and appreciate the tension in that last scene!!
Favorite parts of this trilogy overall…
- The characters and their development was by far the best part of this series, and why it has stuck with me so much. I’m a sucker for a character driven book, and it’s not that this book had no plot because it absolutely did, but the characters are what I find myself thinking about all the time! Elias, Henry, Fenrir, and Hel 🩷 I want them on my team forever
- The relationship between both Charlie and Henry, and Charlie and Fenrir. My poor aching heart, I would sell my soul to have a companion like these guys 🥺
- The comedic moments in this series were top notch. Emma’s ability to insert a funny line in what is otherwise a very tense moment is insane. It feels so natural and true to the character’s personalities. This series is most certainly not a comedy, but yet I found myself laughing out loud in the most unexpected times
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dreams of Ruin by Emma Noyes
This was such a bittersweet read for me because I’ve really enjoyed this series, and I couldn’t wait to see how it all wrapped up.
Overall, I think this was a strong conclusion to the trilogy. The first half especially completely pulled me in—the tension between Charlie and Elias, the rising stakes, and everything building with Henry in the background had me fully locked in. It felt fast, emotional, and really addictive to read.
One of the biggest strengths of this series for me has always been the characters, and that absolutely continues here. Charlie’s growth across the book (and the series as a whole) stands out, and I also loved seeing more of Elias’ perspective—it added a lot to their dynamic and made the emotional stakes hit harder.
The found family element is still one of my favorite parts of this world. Fenrir and Hel especially added so much heart, and I loved how the group dynamic came together more in this final installment. Those relationships are really what made the series stick with me.
The writing also continues to do a great job balancing intensity with humor. There are moments of genuine tension followed by unexpectedly funny lines that feel very natural to the characters rather than forced comic relief.
That said, I did feel like the ending wrapped up a little more quickly than I expected. The pacing in the final stretch felt slightly rushed, and I would’ve loved a bit more buildup and emotional space to fully sit with the resolution. It all made sense, but I wanted a little more time in those final moments.
Even so, I still really enjoyed this conclusion overall. It’s a solid ending to a YA series that’s very character-driven, with strong emotional themes around identity, acceptance, and found family.
While this book didn’t quite land as strongly for me as the first half of the series, I still think the trilogy as a whole is worth picking up—especially if you enjoy mythology-inspired YA fantasy with strong character arcs.
And honestly… I’m a little sad to leave this world behind.
This was such a bittersweet read for me because I’ve really enjoyed this series, and I couldn’t wait to see how it all wrapped up.
Overall, I think this was a strong conclusion to the trilogy. The first half especially completely pulled me in—the tension between Charlie and Elias, the rising stakes, and everything building with Henry in the background had me fully locked in. It felt fast, emotional, and really addictive to read.
One of the biggest strengths of this series for me has always been the characters, and that absolutely continues here. Charlie’s growth across the book (and the series as a whole) stands out, and I also loved seeing more of Elias’ perspective—it added a lot to their dynamic and made the emotional stakes hit harder.
The found family element is still one of my favorite parts of this world. Fenrir and Hel especially added so much heart, and I loved how the group dynamic came together more in this final installment. Those relationships are really what made the series stick with me.
The writing also continues to do a great job balancing intensity with humor. There are moments of genuine tension followed by unexpectedly funny lines that feel very natural to the characters rather than forced comic relief.
That said, I did feel like the ending wrapped up a little more quickly than I expected. The pacing in the final stretch felt slightly rushed, and I would’ve loved a bit more buildup and emotional space to fully sit with the resolution. It all made sense, but I wanted a little more time in those final moments.
Even so, I still really enjoyed this conclusion overall. It’s a solid ending to a YA series that’s very character-driven, with strong emotional themes around identity, acceptance, and found family.
While this book didn’t quite land as strongly for me as the first half of the series, I still think the trilogy as a whole is worth picking up—especially if you enjoy mythology-inspired YA fantasy with strong character arcs.
And honestly… I’m a little sad to leave this world behind.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Big thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for sending me this extra early copy of the last book in the series!
4.5/5 ⭐ (rounded up to 5)
Can't believe I've gotten to read all 3 books in the series as an advanced reader! What an honor!
I loved all the books, each giving different vibes, obviously since the stakes skyrocketed in the last one. It wasn't just a silly affair Charlie and her friends had gotten themselves into like in the first book. The magic system and Norse mythology spin are quite exciting, but I can't say I was a huge fan of the main event of Dreams of Ruin. I think I fairly rated it as 4.5 stars from the perspective as if I was younger since it's YA - magic, gods, big bad guy, romance, family, friends. It's all great but the ending fell a bit flat, I wasn't that excited or shocked by it. And some parts felt quite slow and it was taking me longer to read this book than it probably should have, tbh.
I still enjoyed everything though. I loved a little message about accepting yourself fully, even your darkest parts. It's an important topic. Same thing about supportive family and friends. Everyone around Charlie loves, believed, and accepted her more than she did herself, which might be the reason why she turns out to be such a compassionate and sensible person.
Overall, a great ending to a great series! Definitely recommend as good YA books to those who like Norse mythology!
4.5/5 ⭐ (rounded up to 5)
Can't believe I've gotten to read all 3 books in the series as an advanced reader! What an honor!
I loved all the books, each giving different vibes, obviously since the stakes skyrocketed in the last one. It wasn't just a silly affair Charlie and her friends had gotten themselves into like in the first book. The magic system and Norse mythology spin are quite exciting, but I can't say I was a huge fan of the main event of Dreams of Ruin. I think I fairly rated it as 4.5 stars from the perspective as if I was younger since it's YA - magic, gods, big bad guy, romance, family, friends. It's all great but the ending fell a bit flat, I wasn't that excited or shocked by it. And some parts felt quite slow and it was taking me longer to read this book than it probably should have, tbh.
I still enjoyed everything though. I loved a little message about accepting yourself fully, even your darkest parts. It's an important topic. Same thing about supportive family and friends. Everyone around Charlie loves, believed, and accepted her more than she did herself, which might be the reason why she turns out to be such a compassionate and sensible person.
Overall, a great ending to a great series! Definitely recommend as good YA books to those who like Norse mythology!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
~4.5 stars~
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for providing a free review copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
Dreams of Ruin is the 3rd and final book in the Soul of Shadow series, and the books should definitely be read in order. I enjoyed the first two books, so I was really excited when I was able to get the advance copy of book 3. I'm happy to say that it didn't disappoint, and I think it turned out to be my favorite book in the series! It just sucked me right in, and I couldn't put it down. Scenes were beautifully described, and some almost felt like watching a movie. There were parts that even felt a bit like reading a fairy tale. Plenty of action along the way kept things exciting. I really liked seeing Charlie's character develop in this book beyond what she already had in the first 2 books. I also loved getting some chapters from Elias's point of view. The romance in this series has always had a magnetic pull to it, but in this one it felt downright electric. The book managed to surprise me multiple times while I was reading it, yet everything fit together really well. I can't wait to read more by this author!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for providing a free review copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
Dreams of Ruin is the 3rd and final book in the Soul of Shadow series, and the books should definitely be read in order. I enjoyed the first two books, so I was really excited when I was able to get the advance copy of book 3. I'm happy to say that it didn't disappoint, and I think it turned out to be my favorite book in the series! It just sucked me right in, and I couldn't put it down. Scenes were beautifully described, and some almost felt like watching a movie. There were parts that even felt a bit like reading a fairy tale. Plenty of action along the way kept things exciting. I really liked seeing Charlie's character develop in this book beyond what she already had in the first 2 books. I also loved getting some chapters from Elias's point of view. The romance in this series has always had a magnetic pull to it, but in this one it felt downright electric. The book managed to surprise me multiple times while I was reading it, yet everything fit together really well. I can't wait to read more by this author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley and publishers for the opportunity to read this ARC for honest feedback. The conclusion to the Soul of Shadow trilogy releases in November 2026, and you won't want to miss it.
If you like Norse mythology, a good YA trilogy, and a captivating story then this is an absolute must read. Emma Noyes was a new to me author when I first picked up book one last year, and I am so glad I did. She wove a fantastic journey across these three books using Norse mythology as the base. Honestly, she had me at Loki.
This last book ties together everything to make for an epic ending. Charlie and Elias finally put everything on the table, and watching their relationship bloom was a much needed ending. We also got to know Fenrir and Hel better. They were written so well. I enjoyed how Noyes was able to give these ancient beings such normal family drama with their younger siblings. It made it relatable and funny at the same time.
I will warn that this book will rip your heart out and stomp on it without a care. You won't be able to put it down though, and will just accept the sadness due to how wonderful this ended up being. 5/5 stars. Make sure you pick this up in November!
If you like Norse mythology, a good YA trilogy, and a captivating story then this is an absolute must read. Emma Noyes was a new to me author when I first picked up book one last year, and I am so glad I did. She wove a fantastic journey across these three books using Norse mythology as the base. Honestly, she had me at Loki.
This last book ties together everything to make for an epic ending. Charlie and Elias finally put everything on the table, and watching their relationship bloom was a much needed ending. We also got to know Fenrir and Hel better. They were written so well. I enjoyed how Noyes was able to give these ancient beings such normal family drama with their younger siblings. It made it relatable and funny at the same time.
I will warn that this book will rip your heart out and stomp on it without a care. You won't be able to put it down though, and will just accept the sadness due to how wonderful this ended up being. 5/5 stars. Make sure you pick this up in November!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
OH. MY. GODS. 😭👏👏👏 This series by Emma had me immediately intrigued with the promise of a magical town inspired by Mystic Falls & a Damon Salvatore coded character... When I got to read the ARC of Soul of Shadow I was instantly obsessed with the way Emma's writing perfectly projected the visuals of this town and these characters behind my eyelids - so vividly that every step of the way I've been legitimately fantasizing about someone from the CW doing this series justice on the screen. My investment in this world Emma created has gone even as far as wishing certain songs would be featured in this series that so perfectly compliment the vibes and the moods of this story (in my music-loving opinion lol)! Every time I picked up Dreams of Ruin I couldn't wait to see where the story progressed... to the point where I held my breath, smiled from ear to ear, gasped, and sobbed along with the characters... To the point where I most definitely binged the last 10 or so chapters because the story was sooooo good!! B.R.A.V.O. EMMA 👏 and THANK YOU for the ARCs... I am genuinely grateful to have been witness to your talent with words! Never stop writing!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This final installment in the series was nothing short of amazing. From the very beginning, the intensity pulls you in and doesn’t let go. The character development really stands out—everyone feels like they’ve grown in meaningful ways, shaped by everything they’ve been through.
One of my favorite parts was the unpredictability. Just when you think you know where things are headed, the story shifts and keeps you on your toes. The humor woven throughout adds a nice balance, breaking up the heavier moments without taking away from the overall impact.
The ending felt satisfying, but also leaves just enough open for interpretation. It makes you wonder if there’s more to come in this world—and honestly, I’d be more than ready to dive back in if there is.
One of my favorite parts was the unpredictability. Just when you think you know where things are headed, the story shifts and keeps you on your toes. The humor woven throughout adds a nice balance, breaking up the heavier moments without taking away from the overall impact.
The ending felt satisfying, but also leaves just enough open for interpretation. It makes you wonder if there’s more to come in this world—and honestly, I’d be more than ready to dive back in if there is.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was a perfect wrap up to an excellent series. I am going to miss these characters so much. Charlie with her huge heart and Elias with his cocky sarcasm. The banter and dialogue between the two was once again hilarious.
I loved that the main message of this book is to love every part of yourself, even the not so great parts. And it’s only when you try to hide those parts that you become less than.
I highly recommend this series
I loved that the main message of this book is to love every part of yourself, even the not so great parts. And it’s only when you try to hide those parts that you become less than.
I highly recommend this series
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Enjoyed this 3rd book in the series more that the first two. Loved the main characters journey learning about Norse mythology, her powers, and her self. A fun story getting to hear the story of Norse mythology from a different point of view.
Note: Review based on an advanced copy received from a giveaway.
Note: Review based on an advanced copy received from a giveaway.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Love the Norse mythology take! The banter in this book is fantastic. Conversation flows and is well written. The author did a fantastic job with the internal struggle of learning the power. I also really enjoy the magic system in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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