Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own..
Charlie’s life was upended the day her twin sister died—no small feat considering she grew up in a circus family. Now she wants nothing more than to blend in, feel normal, and survive the daily trials of high school. But when classmates begin to disappear, strange runic symbols appear carved into the trees, and a mysterious new student arrives in town, Charlie quickly realizes “normal” is no longer an option. As danger closes in, she and her friends must race to uncover what’s happening before they become the next ones to vanish.
If you think you’re familiar with Norse mythology, think again. Emma Noyes offers a sharp, modern twist on the legends of Odin, the Valkyries, and Ragnarök in Soul of Shadow. The novel blends young adult fantasy and romance with the atmospheric tone of the Wednesday series—complete with friend-group tensions, budding crushes, and an undercurrent of eerie magic. Noyes draws more directly from traditional Norse myths than the pop‑culture‑shaped versions found in Marvel’s Thor adaptations, grounding the story in a mythos that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Underneath the supernatural conflicts lies a meaningful exploration of peer pressure, loyalty, and staying true to your moral compass.
I give Soul of Shadow 4 out of 5 stars. As a mythology enthusiast, I loved seeing a portrayal of the Norse gods that leans closer to their folklore roots while remaining accessible to young adult readers. The world building is engaging without being overwhelming, and several scenes—especially those set in the forest—are richly atmospheric. However, there were moments where character details felt underdeveloped or glossed over, occasionally leaving gaps in motivation or timeline clarity. Some of the Norse terminology may also be challenging for younger YA readers, though it adds an appreciated layer of authenticity.
This is an excellent pick for readers new to Norse mythology or those looking for an approachable entry point into myth‑inspired fantasy. With mild violence and monster encounters, I recommend it for readers ages 13 and up. Fans of Emma Noyes’s previous work, readers who enjoy series like ACOTAR, or anyone who loves supernatural high school settings will find plenty to enjoy here.
Soul of Shadow originally released in July 2025 and serves as the first installment in a planned trilogy. Book two, Heart of Mischief, is already available, and the final installment, Dreams of Ruin, arrives in November. You can pick up a copy of Soul of Shadow through our Bookshop.org page today.
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What I’m Reading
- Current print book: The Boxcar Librarian, Brianna Labuskes
- Current audio book: Jungle of Ashes, Brynn Barineau
- Book I’m most looking forward to: Pretty Dead Things, Kelsey Cox
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