The Rarkyn’s Familiar

Australian-born, New Zealand-residing author Nikky Lee has brought a pacey, adventurous novel to life in the first instalment of her new YA fantasy trilogy. How this phenomenal read came to fruition through a Twitter competition is impressive. Even more so, are the 15 years of ideas and writing that foundation the novel - which was worth the wait.

Skaar, an otherworld being - a Rarykyn- has been trapped by humans for years. Bound by a sigil and runes that mute his magic, he is itching for freedom. Orphaned Lyss has a murderous desire to avenge her father. After witnessing his brutal execution, she has been carefully plotting her revenge. A blood bond unexpectedly binds both strong-headed, fierce characters, which halts any existing plans as they are forced on an intense journey to find a way to free themselves from the magic.

This novel was gripping, well-structured, full of detail and wasn't short of action, magic and danger. Using multiple perspectives kept the reading engaging and allowed for excellent character development and world-building. I enjoyed the contrast between the main characters throughout the story and especially liked that we got a fierce female heroine. The author brilliantly set the seeds that will link to the next book, which I patiently await to devour. This is a great intro to the fantasy genre and a prime example of a good plot, world and character building (for both primary and supporting characters) and keeping the reader engaged - especially for a novel of this length with two more installments expected. Due to the mature themes, the recommended reading age is 16+.

Title: The Rarkyn’s Familiar

Author: Nikky Lee

Publisher: The Parliament House

ISBN: 9781956136180

RRP: $37.00

Format: Paperback

Date of Publication: April 2022

Ages: 16-25

Themes: Fantasy, magic, mental health, violence/gore, death

Do you have any advisory warnings for this book?

Themes of death & graphic violence/gore/blood scenes, confinement, mental health included.

Would this book work as a read aloud? No

Is there a particular part of the country that it’s set in?

Reviewer’s name, job title, school name & region: Molly Molving-Lilo, assistant librarian, Kaipara Libraries

How are you recommending this book? Highly recommended

What’s the book’s opening sentence? Hunger gnawed in skaar’s belly.

Buy this book here.