How to Read the Soul Eaters Series in Order
Eliza Crewe's urban fantasy trilogy follows a single, continuous narrative arc. Because the books build directly on one another's plot developments, character growth, and world-building stakes, there is only one recommended reading order: publication order, which also serves as the chronological order.
You should start with the debut novel, Cracked, to understand Meda's origin story, before moving on to the escalation in Crushed and the final showdown in Crossed. Since there are no companion novels, novellas, or spin-offs, navigating this series is incredibly straightforward.
1. Cracked (2013)
First published in November 2013 by Strange Chemistry, Cracked introduces readers to Meda Melange. Meda isn't your average teenager—she is a half-demon, half-human hybrid who needs to consume human souls to survive. To keep her monstrous nature hidden and appease whatever conscience she has left, she targets only the wicked, acting as an unconventional vigilante. Her life changes dramatically when she encounters the Crusaders, an ancient order of demon-hunting templars who believe she is a monster that must be destroyed. The book establishes the dark humor, fast-paced action, and morally complex choices that define the series.
2. Crushed (2014)
Published in October 2014, Crushed picks up in the aftermath of the first book's dramatic ending. Meda is forced to navigate complicated alliances and deeper betrayals as the conflict between the Crusaders and the demons intensifies. Her relationships with the templars become even more strained, and she must decide who she can truly trust when threats emerge from all sides. This installment digs deeper into Meda's internal struggles with her humanity and her demon side, raising the stakes while preserving the protagonist's signature sarcastic voice.
3. Crossed (2015)
Released in August 2015, Crossed serves as the action-packed conclusion to the trilogy. A full-scale war breaks out between the Crusaders and the demon hordes, threatening to tear the world apart. Meda, who would normally prefer to run away from trouble, is forced to step up to protect the few people she has grown to care about. The ultimate challenge requires her to infiltrate Hell itself to stop the demonic forces, bringing her character development to a satisfying, heroic climax.
The Unique Publishing Journey of Eliza Crewe
For readers diving into the series today, it is interesting to note the real-world history behind these books. Eliza Crewe's debut was picked up by Strange Chemistry, the young adult imprint of Angry Robot. However, in June 2014, the publisher announced it was folding due to market conditions. Rather than letting the series languish or waiting for another traditional publisher to buy the rights, Crewe successfully reclaimed the rights to her work and decided to self-publish the remaining two books. This bold move ensured that fans received Crushed and Crossed without massive delays, establishing Crewe as a successful and resilient indie author.
What to Know Before You Start
Before grabbing the first book, here are a few tips to set your expectations:
- Not Your Typical YA Heroine: Meda Melange is a true antiheroine. She is snarky, manipulative, and survival-oriented. If you are tired of overly polite or perfect YA protagonists, her dark humor and pragmatic perspective will be a breath of fresh air.
- No Standalones: You cannot read these books out of order or as standalones. Each book continues immediately where the previous one left off, making it a single overarching story split into three parts.
- A Completed Saga: Unlike many indie series that remain unfinished, the Soul Eaters trilogy is completely wrapped up. Crossed provides a definitive and satisfying ending to Meda's journey.