Shadow Reaper

The city of Aravell is in peril; a dangerous blackmist threatens its existence and residents are preyed on by reapers, led by the evil Reaper Priest and his acolytes. In this world 17-year-old Viridia Solace takes her role as a hunter seriously. Intent on vengeance for her parents’ murder, she also works to protect the vulnerable from the reapers who would siphon their precious magical ellixen.

Lynette Noni has built a world of twists, turns, loyalty, betrayal, romance, magic and mystery which is bound to draw lovers of the fantasy genre under its spell. Believable characters, including Viri, her closest friends and her nemesis, the Reaper Priest’s closest ally Reeve Ashton, are thrown into protecting what is precious while solving the mystery of the Priest’s evil machinations. Viri must learn to trust both her instincts and Ashton, whose reappearance is linked to her own tragic family history.

Action-packed and intriguing, the story snakes its way through multiple layers of magic and mystery, unlocking moments from tender and chilling until the final conflict reveals not all is as it seems. External challenges battle with Viri’s own guilt and emotions, bringing readers along for the turbulent ride as the mystery deepens.

At almost 500 pages, Shadow Reaper is not a quick read, but it is most definitely worth the time, as Noni pulls multiple threads together into a cohesive, spellbinding whole. The plot twists leave the reader wanting more, and the finale leaves the way open for the second instalment (due in 2027) where competing forces will face off with the future of Aravell and its citizens at stake. A highly recommended and engaging read which brings an exciting and enticing world to life with skill.

Note: I would definitely recommend it as a read aloud with older students (Year 10+). There is a lot going on, but also much to be unpacked through the themes Noni uses. This is a slow-burn romance and there is violence.