Secrets of Ruin

The Shadow Realms #11

by Brenda K. Davies

Return to the Shadow Realms. A world where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies... and treachery lurks around every corner.

Due to sexual content, violence, and language, this book is recommended for readers 18+ years of age.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Shapeshifters, Romance, Fae, Dragons, Demons

408 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2024

About the author

Brenda K. Davies is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Vampire Awakening Series, Alliance Series, Road to Hell Series, Hell on Earth Series, and historical romantic fiction. She also writes under the pen name, Erica Stevens. When not out with friends and family, she can be found at home with her husband, son, dogs, cat, and horse.

Reviews

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book. I do wish we got a little more of all their HEA's, though. This one dragged a bit in the beginning and then again while we were close to the end. But I'm glad with how it ended. I was a little sad about Ryker because I thought this might be the end of him, and I really liked him. So I was happy to see the new series deals with him. Hopefully that means we also get to see the rest of this crew at some point too.

[Brenda Davies]

Secrets of Ruin is here! Are you ready for the final book in The Shadow Realms?

🐍 Amazon: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRama
🌿 Apple Books: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRab
🐍 Barnes and Noble: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRbn
🌿 Kobo: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRko
🐍 Google Play: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRgp
🌿 Smashwords: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRsm
🐍 Paperback: Coming Release Week
🌿 Hardcover: Coming Release Week
🐍 Audiobook: To Be Announced

Trapped in the ophidian’s dungeon, Brokk will do anything to break free and save Kaylia, but trying to escape the monsters imprisoning them is harder than he anticipated.

As days turn into months, freedom becomes a dream he and Kaylia share while their bond grows deeper.

But when secrets surface, will the tangled web of lies destroy them or make them stronger?

Enter the Shadow Realms. A world where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies… and this exciting series comes to an explosive conclusion.

[Erica Stevens]

Secrets of Ruin is here! Are you ready for the final book in The Shadow Realms?

🐍 Amazon: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRama
🌿 Apple Books: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRab
🐍 Barnes and Noble: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRbn
🌿 Kobo: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRko
🐍 Google Play: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRgp
🌿 Smashwords: https://www.brendakdavies.com/SRsm
🐍 Paperback: Coming Release Week
🌿 Hardcover: Coming Release Week
🐍 Audiobook: To Be Announced

Trapped in the ophidian’s dungeon, Brokk will do anything to break free and save Kaylia, but trying to escape the monsters imprisoning them is harder than he anticipated.

As days turn into months, freedom becomes a dream he and Kaylia share while their bond grows deeper.

But when secrets surface, will the tangled web of lies destroy them or make them stronger?

Enter the Shadow Realms. A world where vampires feast, lycans love deeply, dark fae seduce, witches cast their spells, dragons rule the skies… and this exciting series comes to an explosive conclusion.

[Ana Santos · Rating 3 out of 5]

I hate it when authors don’t know when to stop…

I was disappointed because my expectations were really high. And this time Ms Davies just didn’t deliver.

I got bored in the middle of fighting scenes FFS!... 🥱 I even felt like skipping a few pages, even though I didn’t…

I’ve been such a fan of this series! And this was the last book. It was supposed to be a blast, tremendously incredible, unforgettable. But it was nothing like that. It was ok. I’m just sad.☹️

[Lynsey A · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great ending to this series! Brokk and Kayliah went thru so much for the first part of the book but Kayliah realized she truly loved Brokk, even more than her fiance, which isn't normal as all immortals only fall in love once and forever. But things aren't always as they seem...

This one was full of even more adventure and romance and sexy times.

We get all that we've waited for from all of these books. It really was a great way to end the series.

Loved it and highly recommend this series. I wonder why more people haven't heard of her and read her books. She is quite the storyteller. Now, I haven't loved all of her books but for the most part she's always entertained me.

The love story between Brokk and Kayliah was one of my favorites of hers. I swooned and worried and just really enjoyed them. 💙

[Ragnhildur Garrison]

Brilliant Ending.

The brilliant ending in the last book of the Shadow Realm series does NOT Disappoint. Brenda has set the bar so high that when you think a new book can’t possibly get better, she proves you wrong every time. The flow is incredible, creativity, immagination, and world building is out of bounds.

Go in a increadable journey with Kaylia and Brokk as they try to find a way out of the dungeons they have been imprisoned in by the horrid, and creepy Ophidians for weeks, months in Doomed Valley. Can Kaylia let go of her past love for another? after all, immortals only have one true love in a lifetime.

Twist, turns, love, hate, and battles will take you on a emotional rollercoaster from beginning to end.

This series is so worth it. You will want to start at the beginning, and can read it to the end without having to wait for the next book to come out. I can’t wait for the spin off book that Brenda K. Davis is working on.

[Carmen Alicea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore the Shadow Realms series. The dynamic between Cole and Lexi completely captured my heart, and I was thrilled to see how the story continued to unfold. Each new development only made the series even more captivating and engaging. All the characters are amazing, and it was great how the author told each of their stories.

Brokk and Kaylia tell a powerful story of love, sacrifice, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom. The heart of this story is his unwavering resolve to rescue Kaylia and the strengthening of their bond.

I love Kaylia because I felt her pain and sorrow over all the years she had lost and how someone she trusted broke her heart and abused her love. I love how Brokk gave her strength, and with him by her side, she overcame all her demons. She learned that together, they could conquer anything.

Author Brenda K. Davis skillfully tells a captivating story filled with suspense and emotion, drawing readers into a world where every twist and turn holds the promise of revelation or ruin. The characters are vivid and complex, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Secrets of Ruin is a captivating journey that will keep readers on the edge until the final page. With its thrilling action and heartfelt moments, this novel will surely captivate audiences from beginning to end.

[Jodi Bigane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets of Ruin is book 11 in the Shadow Realms series. This was an epic conclusion to an amazing series. I was drawn into this series from book 1 and couldn't wait to find out what happened next or what adventures awaited the characters. Brenda did an amazing job as always bringing the story to life with all of the plot twists and emotional ups and downs. I was on pins and needles with this book from page 1. Kaylia and Brokk’s adventure in Doomed Valley was dangerous and they suffered tremendously, but their story doesn't end there. These two have been through so much devastation and to still hold onto a little shred of strength for each other shows how strong their feelings are. Brokk realized this before Kaylia because of her past. However, circumstances open her eyes to the truth at hand and she discovers her true feelings. Brenda has a way of writing a story and making you feel their feelings and keep you wanting more.

I received an ARC copy for my honest review. I highly recommend this book and if you haven't started the series, please do because you will not regret it. I am super excited for the spin-off series and new characters of course, but I hope that we read about these characters from time to time!

[Yasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally! The end. Praise God! This book was way better than the previous one. Just like the last, there was a lot of action but I was invested this time. The stakes were higher, Brokk, Kaylia and their crew were fighting to survive after being kidnapped, tortured and held captive by the Ophidians. It was a lot going on in this book and not much downtime but it was a thrilling ride.

What we also come to discover is the reason Kaylia has a hard time getting over Fabian is because he placed a love spell on her and *spoiler alert* is still alive. Now admittedly, I wasn't a fan of the Fabian being alive and a manipulator subplot. I felt that it wasn't needed and was only written for the sake of drama even though there was more than enough things happening in the book. Either way, I'm glad Kaylia got her revenge and was finally able to move on and love Brokk fully like he deserved.

I liked this series finale. Things were summed up, Cole and Lexi finally got married at the end, other couples end up engaged and starting families and most importantly, the danger is over with. Though I feel the Shadow Realm series dragged on too long, as a whole it's a solid and enjoyable series I would recommend.

[AnnaMeansFun · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first third of the book consists of repetitive on page torture - yes, they’re being tortured in a dungeon by some evil snakes. Got it. Don’t need to have it repeated over and over.

The rest of a book is about the apparently most powerful immortals not being particularly more powerful than their enemies and having to rely on luck to get out of trouble.

Also, if you have the last living arach, whose existence is absolutely crucial to the survival of everyone, why would you constantly have her put herself in unnecessary danger? It makes her seem irresponsible and childish.

And I absolutely LOOOOVED how everyone kept talking about the power couple with an ability to destroy the world, yet it was the same couple (and their apparently powerful friends and family) that easily fell into a warlocks’ trap and had to be saved by a dwarf with a good aim. What would happen if the little dwarf wasn’t there to help them all? Make it make sense.

This series should have ended after the book 9 (and the first 6 books could have easily been a trilogy), because the last two books just ruined those characters.

[Anaxor · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ Overall Rating: 4/5

🧡 Favourite Main Character: Orin (best lines in the whole series)

😬 Least Favourite Main Character: Lexi (she grew and changed through the series, but she just felt too undeveloped to me)

💘 Favourite Couple: Sahira & Orin (the second they first interacted their chemistry was evident)

💔 Least Favourite Couple: Lexi & Cole (too many tropes that are not my cup of tea)

😱 Least Favourite Plot Twists:
Fabian’s revelation — felt abrupt and underdeveloped and lacked any explanation
Sahira finding the stones — a bit too convenient like rushing through finishing that book - it could have still happened like it did but at a different moment
Kaylia’s pregnancy — not relevant to the story

🔥 Favourite Plot Twists:
Del being alive and imprisoned by Orin - shocking revelation that I 1000% did not see coming
Cole’s father’s murder — added rich layers to the story and propelled the narrative forward beautifully
The Cursed Realm arc — aside from the actual end which seemed rushed, I found the journey beautifully written and loved the horror and thriller elements

Overall - 👍👍👍👍👎

[brii | brii · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first third of this book had me worried for what was to come. We spent all of it locked in a cell, going through torture after torture. Not only was it repetitive, but it was excessive. I don't think I needed quite so much on page torture.

But! As soon as our heroes escaped captivity, this story took off in a great direction. I love the way Davies writes the battles in this series, and I'm always so entirely invested.

I also loved the spin regarding Fabian. I was getting really tired of it in the last books, and I didn't want to hear about it anymore, so I was really excited to see a plot twist regarding him and Kaylia.

I don't get sparks from Brokk and Kaylia. I'm disappointed that Brokks' character didn't feel the same in these two books as he did in the first 6. Maybe it's because they spent so much time in shitty situations, but he felt like an entirely different character.

While these two books didn't quite hit the spot, the rest of the series did. I'm so excited to see what the spin-off series brings to the table.

[Micaela Kuietauskas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so sad when I learned that this would be the last book in the series, but honestly it is such a great ending. I was worried there wouldn’t be enough time to wrap everything up, but Brenda did it so well, even throwing in an extra twist! This entire series is the perfect balance of love, friendship, action and adventure, and this book is definitely not an exception. Kaylia and Brokk’s adventures in Doomed Valley are a wild ride from beginning to end, but they don’t actually end there. So much happens in their story, and my emotions were all over the place while reading this. Brenda really has a way of making you connect with the characters and their stories, and I couldn’t have asked for a better ending to this journey.

I am excited for the spin-off, and to meet some new characters, but I definitely hope that we get to check in on our favorite family in Dragonia occasionally!

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story. There wasn’t anyway that Brokk and Kaylia wouldn’t have an epic way to get out of the this realm. And to say I wasn’t disappointed would be an understatement. What they endured throughout at the hands of the obsidians. I was on the edge of my seat just waiting for a monumental battle. And then to find out the things we did about a certain warlock was just criminal. Although the main focus were Brokk and Kaylia, it wouldn’t be the Shadow Realms without the family and dragons being part of it. The worlds created by this author are brilliant. Every story is original. They never feel like déja vu. Brenda is brilliant with her words/stories. And I will end this with no matter what Orin is still my fave 😎

[Elisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

How absolutely amazingly magical has this series been!!!!!
So how does the finale round up? Honestly, it was perfectly written and yes I’ve probably said that with other series by Brenda but what’s the point in lying she is just that good a writer.
The Shadow Realms have come to a close for now, all those little threads have been pulled and tied off nicely. While I won’t say there is happily ever after a for everyone I. The Shadow Realms because let’s face it, it’s called Shadow Realms for a reason but everything turned out the way it should.
This amazing adventure is rounded out well with book 11 and while it’s always sad to say goodbye to a magical series I’m also excited to read whatever Brenda writes next.
Thank you Shadow Realms for so many pleasurable hours of reading enjoyment.

[Michelle Koker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been an amazing journey through The Shadow Realms Series. Eleven love filled, wonderful, exciting, adventurous, wild, action packed stories. This final story begins with the continuation of Brokk and Kaylia, still in dire straits in Doomed Valley. It is definitely a page turner so hide somewhere you won't be disturbed. Brenda K. Davies brings this series full circle in Secrets of Ruin. I'm sorry to see it end, but the ending was exceptional. Thanks to Brenda for her amazing imagination and her ability to bring all these unbelievable characters into our lives. It's magical. A definite must read!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I read one of her books I think it can’t get any better than this but than the next one comes out and I’m like wow this is even more captivating. The same can be said for this one. Brokk and Kayla have been captured and the torment they went through while in captivity is heart wrenching but luckily they escape but that doesn’t make things any easier on them. We also get to see some of the characters we’ve come to know through out this book as well. The love Brokk and Kaylia share is shown through each page of this book. If you love the fantasy world with witches vampires dragons lycans this series is definitely for you. I could not put this down while reading it

[LEAH ANN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Epic ending!!

I have been so captivated by this whole series that as soon as this book came out I read it in just a few hours. I could not put it down. I had to know what happens. I have been invested and the characters are amazing. Kaylia and Brokk are two of my favorites in this book. I have also come to admire the strength and courage of another character who will remain nameless for now. This book contained so many twists and turns that it kept me guessing what would happen next. This keeps me captivated and involved in trying to figure things out. The story’s ending was the biggest surprise of them all for me. Wow.

[LaTanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is not enough that I can say about this final book in this series! What I will say is WOWWAH!! I absolutely love Brokk and Kaylia's story!! Yes, it had me "throw my phone" a few times....(yes it got that intense!) but, it was well worth it! As with all of Ms.Brenda's books, she leaves you wanting more at the end, even after giving you a most satisfying ending to a story!! Brenda is by far one of the most amazing authors out there, you will definitely fall in love with her characters and her books! Secrets of Ruin still holds some secrets....but it also promises to provide a lot of answers!!

[Leah Reimer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Remember, reviews are subjective.

Having loved this series (minus book 1), I was so excited for this book to come out but, it didn’t suck me in like the others. The writing was a bit clunky this time? The same sentence structure was used over and over again and it was bugging me (sorry Brenda). There were parts that I WAS drawn into but then slow parts that I had to make myself chug through as well. Overall, I enjoyed the series a LOT and have recommended it to other people.

I also wish the author was more engaging on social media. She ignores all the comments and she’d get so many more followers, views, and satisfied readers if she did.

[Amy Sine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets of Ruin was a satisfying ending to the journey alongside our favorite shadow realms family. This book leaves you wondering what else could possibly happen to Brokk and Kaylia to test their will to love and to live. You'll be feeling everything on this emotional rollercoaster with a few moments that will make you want to cry, jump into the book and beat up some fictional characters, and jump for joy. If you haven't read the full series, what are you waiting for? You won't regret it!

I'm excited to see where the new spinoff will go!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

exceptional end to a sensational series

I tried so hard to go slow with this book but it was impossible. I completely devoured it. I didn’t want to see the end but alas it came.
However what a sensational read. Brokk and Kaylia are trapped, tortured often and starved. They will get out. They will get home but first they have to find an opening or a weakness in their captors.
Join all your favourite characters on an epic journey to save themselves and hopefully get their revenge.
5 stars is definitely not enough for this book

[Sheree · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Secrets of Ruin, the malignant creatures of the Shadow Realms continue to hold Kaylia and Brokk in torturous conditions. Losing hope for their escape and survival, one thing becomes very clear and that is the love they have for one another.

What will they have to endure to find escape from the vicious ophidians? Will Kaylia and Brokks find their way out of the Shadow Realms and back to each other? What is happening with all their family and friends they left behind?

All these questions and more are answered in Secrets of Ruin so grab a copy and read!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must say this, I love everything Brenda K. Davies writes. And her books are edited beautifully. Her characters are well fleshed out, they become friends. Not all authors can do that. I am so sad to say goodbye to the series. But excited to see what’s next. Brenda is brilliant in tying up all ends of everyone’s story. I’ll say Orin and Sahira are my favorites. Her creepy, scary characters give nightmares. But, that is fine. Battle scenes are as well done as a Hollywood movie. I highly recommend this book and the whole series. Grab them today.

[Lisa Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets of Ruin Review

A great conclusion to Brokk and Kalia's story. This book was a page turner from beginning to end with plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved it!

I also loved the way the author incorporated Cole and Lexi, Orin and Sahari, Del and all the allies who came together to fight for them and give insight to the love and lives of the characters after escaping the realms to come together and live in peace. A perfect ending to the series.

Looking forward to the spin off series to come in the spring!

[Audrey B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This follows the 3rd brother Brokk, as he makes his way through Doomed valley and falls in love with Kaylia. Doomed Valley is a twist, awful place with terrible creatures...a theme amongst this whole series. I won't give away any spoilers, but there is a happy ending. This book has some very sadistic stuff so be forewarned! This is also the final book in the series that was maybe drawn out a little bit too long, but it still ended up ok. As per previous reviews the writing can get very repetitive but I stick with it for the mostly decent plot and spicy parts.

[Alicia Rust · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this book was everything and more than what I could have expected. With all the twists and turns, finding love, betrayal and revenge Brenda K Davies knows how yet again to pull you in and keep you wanting to read more. I devoured this book in two days. I loved everything about this book and the ending of this series was so much better than I could have ever asked for and so beautifully written.

[shaqunda spicer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t have words for how this book made me feel. Everything in the book is a work of art from the first word to the very last. The story was well written and your feelings will feel like a tornado by the end of it. I didn’t know I needed this book till it was in my hands and now it will be stuck with me for life the adventure, love, and characters in general all amazing. So all in all if your like adventure and having an amazing emotional roller coaster ride of a read this is for you!!

[Nikki Pearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tried so hard to go slow with this book but it was impossible. I completely devoured it. I didn’t want to see the end but alas it came.
However what a sensational read. Brokk and Kaylia are trapped, tortured often and starved. They will get out. They will get home but first they have to find an opening or a weakness in their captors.
Join all your favourite characters on an epic journey to save themselves and hopefully get their revenge.
5 stars is definitely not enough for this book

[Amber Kemp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brenda K Davies does it again! Find out if Brock and Kaylia survive the ophidian’s dungeon.This was an epic ending to a fascinating adventure. With so many different supernaturals and twists and turns. The last installment of the book keeps you enthralled and always wanting more. The story works up many emotions and makes you feel as if you are in the book with the characters. This book is a must read. I give it a five out of five!!