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Shadows of Dreams
Being dead was easy, being alive? Not so much. She made an oath to protect humanity, but being an angel didn’t come with a handbook, and she’s very definitely in over her head.
She’s here to help vanquish the brutal demon hordes, but she can’t remember a gosh darned thing! Apparently that’s part of the process when newly awoken, but is the sinister presence also normal that’s lurking inside her head?
Evil visions plague her as she tries to untangle reality from nightmare; falling even further into the thick of it.
Then there’s a particular, enigmatic someone, and when he looks her way — with moody hazel eyes like his, how can she not get lost within them?!
Between the blushing of her cheeks and the buzzing of her inner power, her feet are firmly “not” on the ground.
The city is a thousand times changed, society is crumbling, and even the constant rain can’t wash away the stain of the shadows. Demons run rampant, sucking the life out of the innocent; horror breeding in their wake. Darkness waits on every corner, growing stronger with each passing night… The time is now and there’s no outrunning it.
*Trigger warning: frequent violence
She’s here to help vanquish the brutal demon hordes, but she can’t remember a gosh darned thing! Apparently that’s part of the process when newly awoken, but is the sinister presence also normal that’s lurking inside her head?
Evil visions plague her as she tries to untangle reality from nightmare; falling even further into the thick of it.
Then there’s a particular, enigmatic someone, and when he looks her way — with moody hazel eyes like his, how can she not get lost within them?!
Between the blushing of her cheeks and the buzzing of her inner power, her feet are firmly “not” on the ground.
The city is a thousand times changed, society is crumbling, and even the constant rain can’t wash away the stain of the shadows. Demons run rampant, sucking the life out of the innocent; horror breeding in their wake. Darkness waits on every corner, growing stronger with each passing night… The time is now and there’s no outrunning it.
*Trigger warning: frequent violence
458 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
Emma Karolina
2 books25 followersEmma has always lived for words. From a young age, she was creating magical characters across the globe in message-board role-playing games; this was her first taste of the wonders of writing.
She found herself lost in the dance of text and how expressive she could be, delighting in lyrical descriptors that made her heart both sing and melt into tears.
Intrigued by the battle of love, loss and darkness, Emma finds herself drawn to create series that revolve around the complex feelings and traumas that can plague us; unwrapping the coarse lies we tell ourselves to find that inner truth.
When Emma isn’t writing she works in the thriving BC film industry as a background performer, this gives her “extra” time to mull over story ideas and opportunities to experience unique and captivating visual settings -- keeping the inspiration alive!
She found herself lost in the dance of text and how expressive she could be, delighting in lyrical descriptors that made her heart both sing and melt into tears.
Intrigued by the battle of love, loss and darkness, Emma finds herself drawn to create series that revolve around the complex feelings and traumas that can plague us; unwrapping the coarse lies we tell ourselves to find that inner truth.
When Emma isn’t writing she works in the thriving BC film industry as a background performer, this gives her “extra” time to mull over story ideas and opportunities to experience unique and captivating visual settings -- keeping the inspiration alive!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 9, 2025
This has been one of the most beautifully written stories I have ever read.
Angels, demons, shadow of death, this has it all.
Tesla and Daniel, the feelings are there, do they understand? Do they act on them?
Elizabeth, a fallen Angel, she brings fear and danger, can she be defeated?
I’m so looking forward to Book 2.
Angels, demons, shadow of death, this has it all.
Tesla and Daniel, the feelings are there, do they understand? Do they act on them?
Elizabeth, a fallen Angel, she brings fear and danger, can she be defeated?
I’m so looking forward to Book 2.
February 4, 2026
This was the first book by this author and I am stunned all the way through the book I noticed asking questions and that’s what I always do I read and have questions s it was amazing to have those questions answered even though I didn’t ask but anyway the book was so good I had to get book 2 of course I need to know more about the life demons and angels learning how to survive and a little ghost child I was so invested at the end scene like omg had me on the edge for sure
February 22, 2025
Shadows of Dreams was a dark, emotional book, full of action and great characterisation. I loved it.
Tesla is reincarnated at the beginning of the book. The way Emma Karolina described this event, along with the turbulent beginning of Tesla's new life, was beautifully written, described vividly with strong prose. There is the exploration of the character's emotions - particularly Tesla's, which incorporates finding one's self in the midst of survival and danger. Other characters emotions and characterizations are also well realised, Daniel's and Johnathon's are my favourites along with Tesla.
The story isaction-packedd and, at times, violent, but never gruesome. It drives the story and pace, making it a very entertaining and exciting read. There are also elements of a slow burn romance, which is a nice sub-plot.
Also, I cannot forget that there is a world to save from demons. And angels trying the best to save humanity from them! I am really looking forward to the next book in this series!
Tesla is reincarnated at the beginning of the book. The way Emma Karolina described this event, along with the turbulent beginning of Tesla's new life, was beautifully written, described vividly with strong prose. There is the exploration of the character's emotions - particularly Tesla's, which incorporates finding one's self in the midst of survival and danger. Other characters emotions and characterizations are also well realised, Daniel's and Johnathon's are my favourites along with Tesla.
The story isaction-packedd and, at times, violent, but never gruesome. It drives the story and pace, making it a very entertaining and exciting read. There are also elements of a slow burn romance, which is a nice sub-plot.
Also, I cannot forget that there is a world to save from demons. And angels trying the best to save humanity from them! I am really looking forward to the next book in this series!
July 6, 2025
Refreshing!
Ok, angels and demons? You had my attention there!
The banter between main characters and their relationships in general are so well done! You end up rooting for them and actually caring...
The main character who technically is special doesn't become 'the one' straight away after a few minutes of training montage. She is having a hard time, she fails and falls, and doubts herself constantly... she's relatable, to say the least. Yes, it's extremely refreshing!
The writing style is simply incredible, unique, poetic... and fun!
What an adventure! Loved it!
Ok, angels and demons? You had my attention there!
The banter between main characters and their relationships in general are so well done! You end up rooting for them and actually caring...
The main character who technically is special doesn't become 'the one' straight away after a few minutes of training montage. She is having a hard time, she fails and falls, and doubts herself constantly... she's relatable, to say the least. Yes, it's extremely refreshing!
The writing style is simply incredible, unique, poetic... and fun!
What an adventure! Loved it!
July 15, 2025
This is probably one of the most beautiful written books in a long time. It was like reading pure poetry. Emma did a tremendous job at bringing the characters to life. I hope this is made into a movie.
April 12, 2025
Emma Karolina has a beautiful and poetic style of writing. The descriptions of the world were very beautiful and woven together with care, making it easy for me to picture certain scenes. This is something I really love in a book! There were some aspects of magic that I really liked, for example, the way the demons were exorcised (the descriptions were so good), Johnathan's power, and some characters' ability to enter the Void.
Blythe really grew on me. I'm a fan of gentle giants and I found his more vulnerable side quite endearing. Johnathan was aloof and not always around, but when he was, his presence was prominent. He carries a protective and paternal energy about him, like whenever he's around, you know things will be alright. Jada was quick-tempered and blunt, but she still worked her way into my heart. Tesla grew into her powers and it was enjoyable to watch how that happened. Aria brought a sweet presence to the book, Geni was mysterious and Daniel, oh Daniel... He and I have a bittersweet relationship! I do wish the characters conversed with each other more and that we learned more about their backstories. They are such interesting characters with unique personalities that stand out. However, some of them had strong moments of introspection that were truly engaging. I always like to know how characters feel in every situation.
I appreciated the level of realism in the injuries the characters sustained during the intense action scenes, which were well-executed. The essence of the plot took its time to unfold, but I eventually grasped it as I read along. If you enjoy angels vs. demons, telepathy, gripping action, an FMC who grows into her power, and beautiful world descriptions, this book is for you!
Blythe really grew on me. I'm a fan of gentle giants and I found his more vulnerable side quite endearing. Johnathan was aloof and not always around, but when he was, his presence was prominent. He carries a protective and paternal energy about him, like whenever he's around, you know things will be alright. Jada was quick-tempered and blunt, but she still worked her way into my heart. Tesla grew into her powers and it was enjoyable to watch how that happened. Aria brought a sweet presence to the book, Geni was mysterious and Daniel, oh Daniel... He and I have a bittersweet relationship! I do wish the characters conversed with each other more and that we learned more about their backstories. They are such interesting characters with unique personalities that stand out. However, some of them had strong moments of introspection that were truly engaging. I always like to know how characters feel in every situation.
I appreciated the level of realism in the injuries the characters sustained during the intense action scenes, which were well-executed. The essence of the plot took its time to unfold, but I eventually grasped it as I read along. If you enjoy angels vs. demons, telepathy, gripping action, an FMC who grows into her power, and beautiful world descriptions, this book is for you!
April 1, 2025
This is a delightfully nuanced page-turner. I couldn't put it down! Emma Karolina's settings and characters are fresh, original, clear, detailed and quirkily compelling. Her fantasy world of warrior angels and soul-sucking demons is believable - disturbingly REAL! - A metaphor for what goes on in this world when good stands up and fights evil. I love that all the relationships are complex and layered, and that there is humor and humanity in these creatures that roam the pages of Shadows of Dreams. The stakes are high, and grounded in the reality of inner city dissolution and despair. But there's beauty here too, even in the midst of pain and the seeming hopeless battle against evil forces. Along with the demonic horror, and the angels' bravery, comradery and blood-shed, there is love - fragile and uncertain though it is. Pick up this book, and be prepared to be addicted!
June 7, 2025
A thrilling, dark fantasy with a fierce heroine, intense action, and just the right touch of romance. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t put it down!
February 5, 2025
I loved this book and the mystery, tension, and edginess. And there's sweetness, innocence and romance also! Emma Karolina is a very good writer-descriptive but not too wordy either.
The pacing is a good balance between fast action and stillness.....
Once I started I couldn't put the book down!
The pacing is a good balance between fast action and stillness.....
Once I started I couldn't put the book down!
June 13, 2025
This book is incredible! It gave me Shadowhunters and Charmed vibes. It has demons, angels, magic, intrigue and mystery, and secrets. So many secrets that will be keep you on the edge of your seat. I can’t wait to read the second book in the series!
June 7, 2025
Dark, gripping, and addictive! The world is intense, the mystery kept me guessing, and the angel heroine is unforgettable. A must-read for supernatural fantasy fans!
March 9, 2025
Shadows of Dreams is a beautifully written story about magic, mystery, and self-discovery. I was drawn in by the vivid world-building and the characters, who felt real and relatable. The emotional depth and unexpected twists kept me engaged, while the dreamscape feels full of possibility - for both good and evil! Karolina’s writing style adds a lyrical quality to the narrative, making this an immersive and captivating read.
April 3, 2025
There’s something deeply captivating about stepping into a world where angels walk the earth achingly human in all ways that matter. That’s what Emma Karolina offers in Shadows of Dreams. The story follows Tesla, a newly incarnated angel thrown into a mission to protect humanity; only there’s no manual, no mentor, and no margin for error. She’s got to figure it out in real-time, and following her efforts is as frustrating as it is mesmerizing.
Karolina’s prose has a lyrical quality that hums beneath the surface of the action and makes even the quiet moments meaningful. The pacing is quick without feeling rushed, and the angel-versus-demon conflict is familiar but refreshed (anchored by emotional honesty and inner turmoil).
What stands out most to me is how Karolina handles the truth. Readers will understand when they get to these parts of the book, perhaps remembering a time they buried their truth instead of facing it. Karolina didn't shy away, which pulled me in. Hours were lost in Tesla's world, cheering and worrying as I slowly unwrapped layer by painful layer until nothing was left but raw honesty.
Magic? But of course. Dark, weird, original stuff. The way demons are exorcised is nothing I’ve read before, and I mean that in the best way. Add in a clean, slow-burn romance that doesn’t try too hard and still manages to hit right in the heart, and Shadows of Dreams earns its spot on my shelf.
For anyone craving urban fantasy with soul, grit, and a whisper of sacredness just out of reach, this one’s worth your time.
Five big golden stars.
Karolina’s prose has a lyrical quality that hums beneath the surface of the action and makes even the quiet moments meaningful. The pacing is quick without feeling rushed, and the angel-versus-demon conflict is familiar but refreshed (anchored by emotional honesty and inner turmoil).
What stands out most to me is how Karolina handles the truth. Readers will understand when they get to these parts of the book, perhaps remembering a time they buried their truth instead of facing it. Karolina didn't shy away, which pulled me in. Hours were lost in Tesla's world, cheering and worrying as I slowly unwrapped layer by painful layer until nothing was left but raw honesty.
Magic? But of course. Dark, weird, original stuff. The way demons are exorcised is nothing I’ve read before, and I mean that in the best way. Add in a clean, slow-burn romance that doesn’t try too hard and still manages to hit right in the heart, and Shadows of Dreams earns its spot on my shelf.
For anyone craving urban fantasy with soul, grit, and a whisper of sacredness just out of reach, this one’s worth your time.
Five big golden stars.
April 23, 2025
Shadows of Dreams is, so far, my top read of 2025.
This is a five star read for me across the board.
The world and characters this author has created feel real. Makes me wonder if angels are actually sharing the Earth with humans as they fight demons to protect us.
From the opening scene, through the demon battles, the internal struggles the characters go through, to the last page, I was glued to my Kindle.
This book was such a gripping, emotional, intense story. I loved it!
One thing I need to add is the main male character, Daniel, reminds me of Castiel from the T.V show Supernatural. I absolutely loved that.
This story has a similar vibe as the show Supernatural, which I loved as well.
There's a romance brewing between Telsa, the main female main character, and Daniel, and I'm excited to see where this author takes it in the next book.
Bravo.
P.S. I loved this book so much, I had to have the paperback for my bookshelf.
This is a five star read for me across the board.
The world and characters this author has created feel real. Makes me wonder if angels are actually sharing the Earth with humans as they fight demons to protect us.
From the opening scene, through the demon battles, the internal struggles the characters go through, to the last page, I was glued to my Kindle.
This book was such a gripping, emotional, intense story. I loved it!
One thing I need to add is the main male character, Daniel, reminds me of Castiel from the T.V show Supernatural. I absolutely loved that.
This story has a similar vibe as the show Supernatural, which I loved as well.
There's a romance brewing between Telsa, the main female main character, and Daniel, and I'm excited to see where this author takes it in the next book.
Bravo.
P.S. I loved this book so much, I had to have the paperback for my bookshelf.
May 30, 2025
Urban Fantasy Good vs Evil
Clean Urban Fantasy Good vs Evil with Found Family Action Adventure at its core.
Our MC Tesla awakes in this life as an Angel, uncertain and warily with no memories like her mind is almost not her own she journeys into her power learning to trust in herself even as Sinister darkness beckons.More importantly who can she trust to lean into as Tesla discovers why she is needed and what is her role - You will ask yourself on reading is Tesla even a reliable narrator.
There are Multi Points View, so you can go below surface of experiences felt as the drama unfolds. There is sense of vigilance and sacredness in the New Faction - Found Family towards each other and unification for the mission end goal.
I left the book at the end pondering on the characters Heroism and their compelling Self-Sacrifice to protect others for the greater good.
Jasmin E Reads
Clean Urban Fantasy Good vs Evil with Found Family Action Adventure at its core.
Our MC Tesla awakes in this life as an Angel, uncertain and warily with no memories like her mind is almost not her own she journeys into her power learning to trust in herself even as Sinister darkness beckons.More importantly who can she trust to lean into as Tesla discovers why she is needed and what is her role - You will ask yourself on reading is Tesla even a reliable narrator.
There are Multi Points View, so you can go below surface of experiences felt as the drama unfolds. There is sense of vigilance and sacredness in the New Faction - Found Family towards each other and unification for the mission end goal.
I left the book at the end pondering on the characters Heroism and their compelling Self-Sacrifice to protect others for the greater good.
Jasmin E Reads
May 7, 2025
I adored Emma Karolina's debut novel Shadows of Dreams, Book 1 in the Angels of Half-Light series.
In a dystopian future where Earth as we know it is falling apart and demon's are winning the war against humanity will a motley team of fallen angels turn the tide for the good?
Full of intrigue, mystery, found family and the stirrings of romance--I was rooting for Tesla and Daniel the entire way. Is the apprentice really evil? Are the elders blind? Who's deceiving who? I was on the edge of my seat desperate for answers.
If you're a fan of an FMC who's both insecure and can kick butt and take names you're going to love Tesla. And Daniel, man oh man, that boy needs to learn some self care!
If you love books where the hero is thrown blind into an entirely new world this one's for you :D
In a dystopian future where Earth as we know it is falling apart and demon's are winning the war against humanity will a motley team of fallen angels turn the tide for the good?
Full of intrigue, mystery, found family and the stirrings of romance--I was rooting for Tesla and Daniel the entire way. Is the apprentice really evil? Are the elders blind? Who's deceiving who? I was on the edge of my seat desperate for answers.
If you're a fan of an FMC who's both insecure and can kick butt and take names you're going to love Tesla. And Daniel, man oh man, that boy needs to learn some self care!
If you love books where the hero is thrown blind into an entirely new world this one's for you :D
January 31, 2025
Loved Shadows of Dreams! The world building is amazing, and I got lost in the excitement of the story. The realness and vulnerability of how the characters are portrayed, and connect with each other made me full in love with them. Can't wait for the next book!!
March 14, 2025
Fast-paced and action packed with loveable characters and great world building. I can't wait for the next book!
March 7, 2025
What a wild ride! This is one action packed story! It shares about an incarnated angel and her comrades with a strong “found family” trope (which I love). Together, alongside the other warriors, her purpose is to defend humanity from demons (as angels do) but the demons seem unvanquishable in this city. The author’s style is wonderfully eloquent and the book so well written, it pulls you into the story (which is absolutely immersive). There is a slow burn between her and the sweet, cinnamon roll MMC. He makes the story for me. I enjoyed their connection as it’s wonderfully angsty. The main character’s struggle is intense and palpable. She struggles quite a bit, in fact, with so much happening to her, her powers, visions, the constant battles and trying to keep her emotions in check. I look forward to seeing how that slow burn develops in book two of the series. No spice/language. (Tw: frequent violence)
October 24, 2025
Shadows of Dreams by Emma Karolina blends the divine with the deeply human in a powerful way. Tesla, a newly embodied angel, is thrown into a mission to protect humanity—without guidance or room for mistakes. Her journey is raw, tense, and utterly absorbing.
Karolina’s writing is lyrical yet sharp, with fast pacing and emotional weight. The connection between Tesla and Daniel feels genuine, and the worldbuilding is vivid and immersive. I especially loved the unique magical elements—like the exorcisms and the mysterious Void.
For fans of urban fantasy with heart, depth, and a sacred edge, this is a must-read.
Karolina’s writing is lyrical yet sharp, with fast pacing and emotional weight. The connection between Tesla and Daniel feels genuine, and the worldbuilding is vivid and immersive. I especially loved the unique magical elements—like the exorcisms and the mysterious Void.
For fans of urban fantasy with heart, depth, and a sacred edge, this is a must-read.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews