Shadow Souls

Some readers appreciated the author's return to the series after a long hiatus, finding it entertaining despite its perceived flaws. The book introduces new supernatural mythologies, expanding beyond traditional vampires to include demons and fox spirits, which some found intriguing. The narrative shifts allowed for a deeper exploration of characters like Damon and Matt, with many enjoying Damon's increased presence and role. Certain scenes were noted for their beauty, such as moments between Damon and Elena or Stefan's unwavering love. The book was also described as darker, edgier, and more action-packed, appealing to some who welcomed a change in tone and found the suspense engaging.

However, the reviews are overwhelmingly critical, with many readers describing the book as boring, lame, weird, nonsensical, and a significant disappointment. A major point of contention is the perceived lack of continuity with the original series, both in terms of character portrayal and established lore. Beloved characters, particularly Elena and Stefan, were seen as acting completely out of character, with Elena's various transformations (from a ghost-like state to an angelic figure with flying powers) being widely ridiculed as confusing and laughable. Stefan's overly protective and "Grandma-like" demeanor, along with repetitive pet names, alienated many. Damon's character was also criticized for being inconsistently written and "ruined" by the plot. The storyline itself was frequently called jumbled, stretched, and illogical, with new antagonists like cartoonish fox demons and sentient trees failing to resonate. The writing style was often described as haphazard, repetitive, and overly long, leading many to feel the author was forcing the series or had lost her touch. Elements of gratuitous violence and sophomoric sexual overtones were also found disturbing and inappropriate for a young adult series.

Overall, this installment marks a stark departure from the original books, resulting in a deeply divisive reception. While a small subset of readers found enjoyment in its darker, more action-oriented approach and character focus, the vast majority of long-time fans expressed profound disappointment and confusion, often unable to finish the book. It is recommended for readers who are prepared for a radical shift in tone, character consistency, and plot direction, or those committed to completing the series regardless of quality. Those who cherished the original books for their established characters and coherent supernatural world are advised to approach this entry with extreme caution, as it is likely to fall far short of their expectations.