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Shadow Reaper
Not yet published
Expected 2 Jun 26A young reaper hunter must conspire with her enemy to uproot the ancient evil that threatens her world in this heart-pounding romantic fantasy from the bestselling author of The Prison Healer.
"This year's must read YA fantasy." —Rebecca Yarros, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fourth Wing
The city of Aravell is in peril, plagued by a deadly blackmist that kills all it touches and reapers who roam the streets, stealing magic from innocent children in their thirst for power. Seventeen-year-old Viridia Solace has trained for years to hunt these reapers, but their ranks keep growing, led by the man who murdered her the Reaper Priest.
When the Priest’s most loyal follower, Reeve Ashton, is captured, he offers Viri a chance to avenge her parents . . . for a price. She knows better than to bargain with a reaper, let alone this reaper, but his offer is too good to resist.
Soon she’s breaking him out of prison, colluding with his crew of magic thieves, and following him deep into the blackmist forest in search of an ancient legend, all so they can stop the Reaper Priest’s plot to doom the city. Viri is staking her life on Reeve’s plan, but how can she trust a silver-tongued criminal to keep his word? And how can she trust her own heart when a buried secret could shatter everything?
Full of relentless twists, enemies-to-lovers romance, found family, and high-stakes action, Shadow Reaper is the start of a breathtaking new duology from international bestselling author Lynette Noni.
"This year's must read YA fantasy." —Rebecca Yarros, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Fourth Wing
The city of Aravell is in peril, plagued by a deadly blackmist that kills all it touches and reapers who roam the streets, stealing magic from innocent children in their thirst for power. Seventeen-year-old Viridia Solace has trained for years to hunt these reapers, but their ranks keep growing, led by the man who murdered her the Reaper Priest.
When the Priest’s most loyal follower, Reeve Ashton, is captured, he offers Viri a chance to avenge her parents . . . for a price. She knows better than to bargain with a reaper, let alone this reaper, but his offer is too good to resist.
Soon she’s breaking him out of prison, colluding with his crew of magic thieves, and following him deep into the blackmist forest in search of an ancient legend, all so they can stop the Reaper Priest’s plot to doom the city. Viri is staking her life on Reeve’s plan, but how can she trust a silver-tongued criminal to keep his word? And how can she trust her own heart when a buried secret could shatter everything?
Full of relentless twists, enemies-to-lovers romance, found family, and high-stakes action, Shadow Reaper is the start of a breathtaking new duology from international bestselling author Lynette Noni.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 16, 2026
2214 people want to read
About the author
Lynette Noni
33 books8,839 followersAustralian author Lynette Noni studied journalism, academic writing, and human behaviour at university before venturing into the world of fiction. She is the #1 bestselling and award-winning author of THE PRISON HEALER series, THE MEDORAN CHRONICLES, and the WHISPER duology. To date, her books have sold more than one million copies in over 20 countries across the globe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 18, 2026
update: ITS CHILDHOOD FRIENDS TO LOVERS WTHH 😭😭😭💔💔💔
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ignore me while i scream into the void real quick.
AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH
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ignore me while i scream into the void real quick.
AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH
unreleased
August 1, 2025🚨 NEW LYNETTE NONI FANTASY SERIES ALERT 🚨
i am beyond hyped, folks! give it to me now!
i am beyond hyped, folks! give it to me now!
Want to read
July 22, 2025Lynette Noni can probably hear me screaming my excitement for this book all the way in Australia (I live on the other side of the planet)🫶
arc-tbr
January 7, 2026Ahhhh! Need this now!
“dark YA pitched as SHADOW AND BONE meets The Vampire Diaries (sans vampires), about a young reaper hunter who must conspire with her childhood friend-turned-mortal enemy and his crew of illegal magic thieves to stop a deadly foe from a plot to steal untold power-and doom their world”
“dark YA pitched as SHADOW AND BONE meets The Vampire Diaries (sans vampires), about a young reaper hunter who must conspire with her childhood friend-turned-mortal enemy and his crew of illegal magic thieves to stop a deadly foe from a plot to steal untold power-and doom their world”
January 18, 2026
OH. MY. GOSH.
You would think that after reading 12, TWELVE, books by Lynette Noni then I couldn’t be surprised by her plot twists. Well you are wrong, BECAUSE I WAS SURPRISED. IN FACT IM IN DISBELIEF. BECAUSE WHAT?! I honestly feel so stupid and now I absolutely NEED to reread this book and see the foreshadowing moments because I KNOW THEY ARE THERE. Okay now time for the actual review, but first we have to back this up.
When Shadow Reaper was announced it quickly became my most anticipated read of 2026. Not only because Lynette Noni is my favorite author but also because it sounded SO INTERESTING. So I am not kidding when I say that I CRIED getting an email saying I got approved for the arc and I am also not kidding when I say that I dropped absolutely everything for this book and I am so glad I did BECAUSE OH MY GOSH.
This book not only met my very high expectations but it EXCEEDED THEM. I was so immersed into the world of Elverdine Isle to the point where time actually had no meaning. When I say that I was obsessed, I WAS OBSESSED. Every waking moment for the past three days has been spent reading this book. In addition to the world, Lynette Noni also delivered on the characters that you just can’t help but loving. Like tell me why I knew Reeve for one page but I already loved him as if I had known him for 100 pages. I EVEN LOVED A FREAKING BUNNY(dare I say the best part of the book). Lastly, as I said previously, this book did not HOLD BACK WITH THE PLOT TWISTS. The ending shook me to my core and I don’t think I’ll ever be the same. I might even dare to say that this plot twist was crazier than the one in the prison healer(and trust me, that is saying something). I should probably stop yapping now but just remember
“Never Bargain with a Reaper.”
THANK YOU SO MUCH TO NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHERS FOR GIFTING ME THIS ARC! It truly meant the world to me😭
You would think that after reading 12, TWELVE, books by Lynette Noni then I couldn’t be surprised by her plot twists. Well you are wrong, BECAUSE I WAS SURPRISED. IN FACT IM IN DISBELIEF. BECAUSE WHAT?! I honestly feel so stupid and now I absolutely NEED to reread this book and see the foreshadowing moments because I KNOW THEY ARE THERE. Okay now time for the actual review, but first we have to back this up.
When Shadow Reaper was announced it quickly became my most anticipated read of 2026. Not only because Lynette Noni is my favorite author but also because it sounded SO INTERESTING. So I am not kidding when I say that I CRIED getting an email saying I got approved for the arc and I am also not kidding when I say that I dropped absolutely everything for this book and I am so glad I did BECAUSE OH MY GOSH.
This book not only met my very high expectations but it EXCEEDED THEM. I was so immersed into the world of Elverdine Isle to the point where time actually had no meaning. When I say that I was obsessed, I WAS OBSESSED. Every waking moment for the past three days has been spent reading this book. In addition to the world, Lynette Noni also delivered on the characters that you just can’t help but loving. Like tell me why I knew Reeve for one page but I already loved him as if I had known him for 100 pages. I EVEN LOVED A FREAKING BUNNY(dare I say the best part of the book). Lastly, as I said previously, this book did not HOLD BACK WITH THE PLOT TWISTS. The ending shook me to my core and I don’t think I’ll ever be the same. I might even dare to say that this plot twist was crazier than the one in the prison healer(and trust me, that is saying something). I should probably stop yapping now but just remember
“Never Bargain with a Reaper.”
THANK YOU SO MUCH TO NETGALLEY AND THE PUBLISHERS FOR GIFTING ME THIS ARC! It truly meant the world to me😭
January 18, 2026
4.5⭐️
thank you so much netgalley for this arc!!
this book was one of, if not my #1, most anticipated read of 2026 and let me tell you, IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
prison healer is one of my favorite trilogies ever so i have been SOOOO excited for new book by her!!!!
there were so many genuinely good plot twists, and the banter between viri and reeve was chef's kiss 🤌🏻
this book had my jaw on the floor one minute and then had me tearing up the next
i CAN'T WAIT for book 2
thank you so much netgalley for this arc!!
this book was one of, if not my #1, most anticipated read of 2026 and let me tell you, IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
prison healer is one of my favorite trilogies ever so i have been SOOOO excited for new book by her!!!!
there were so many genuinely good plot twists, and the banter between viri and reeve was chef's kiss 🤌🏻
this book had my jaw on the floor one minute and then had me tearing up the next
i CAN'T WAIT for book 2
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lynette Noni does it again! 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘳 is an explosive young adult duology opener full of twists and turns, magical adventure, and charming romance.
Viridia hunts reapers in her quest for revenge, desperate to locate the Reaper Priest responsible for her parents' deaths. When his comrade, Reeve, is captured, she risks a dangerous bargain to gain access to the murderer. As conflicting feelings develop for Reeve, her former childhood friend, and a world-ending conspiracy is discovered, she'll have to decide who to trust - and learn how to trust herself.
Noni is the queen of crafting charming young adult fantasy with characters so lovely and full of life that they jump out of the pages. I instantly adored the cast of characters, and the found family elements are beautifully penned.
Viri is a compelling character whose backstory is tragic and plays a large role in her empowering growth. Reeve's confidence is rather endearing, especially as his body language reveals care for Viri. He's alluring and fierce yet sweet and gentle, and his sense of humor had me laughing out loud. Viri and Reeve's dynamic was addictive, and their story should be the blueprint for the he falls first trope! The friendships are heartwarming, and there's even an adorable fluffy sidekick!
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘳 is magical and filled to the brim with addictive wanderlust. It's a book you'll stay up all night devouring because you can't put it down, and once you finish, you'll be up all night pondering the gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Lynette Noni will be holding me captive until the sequel is in my hands - I am desperate to see what happens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the advance reading copy!
Viridia hunts reapers in her quest for revenge, desperate to locate the Reaper Priest responsible for her parents' deaths. When his comrade, Reeve, is captured, she risks a dangerous bargain to gain access to the murderer. As conflicting feelings develop for Reeve, her former childhood friend, and a world-ending conspiracy is discovered, she'll have to decide who to trust - and learn how to trust herself.
Noni is the queen of crafting charming young adult fantasy with characters so lovely and full of life that they jump out of the pages. I instantly adored the cast of characters, and the found family elements are beautifully penned.
Viri is a compelling character whose backstory is tragic and plays a large role in her empowering growth. Reeve's confidence is rather endearing, especially as his body language reveals care for Viri. He's alluring and fierce yet sweet and gentle, and his sense of humor had me laughing out loud. Viri and Reeve's dynamic was addictive, and their story should be the blueprint for the he falls first trope! The friendships are heartwarming, and there's even an adorable fluffy sidekick!
𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘱𝘦𝘳 is magical and filled to the brim with addictive wanderlust. It's a book you'll stay up all night devouring because you can't put it down, and once you finish, you'll be up all night pondering the gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Lynette Noni will be holding me captive until the sequel is in my hands - I am desperate to see what happens next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the advance reading copy!
Want to read
July 25, 2025A whole new ya fantasy series by Lynette Noni?? Oh I am SO ready
"The story follows a young reaper hunter who must conspire with her childhood friend turned mortal enemy and his crew of illegal magic thieves to stop a deadly foe from steaing untold power ─ and dooming their World!"
"The story follows a young reaper hunter who must conspire with her childhood friend turned mortal enemy and his crew of illegal magic thieves to stop a deadly foe from steaing untold power ─ and dooming their World!"
November 27, 2025
I never review things but I managed to snag a proof at YALC. So it deserves a review.
friends-> enemies -> lovers
It was really easy to read, the world building was really compelling but easy to understand and follow. kinda gave me RWBY vibes with the hunters and the artifacts.
There are so many lovable characters and I will be honest for the first half of the book I definitely prefer some of the side characters to the main protag, but she found her feet as the book went along.
Also would die for walnut just saying.
The story kept me engaged and the more I read the harder it was to put down. I did not expect the ending...well.. did one bit but not the reveal at the end. usually, I am pretty good at guessing, so it did catch me off guard.
now I need to wait like 2 years for the next one 😭😭
friends-> enemies -> lovers
It was really easy to read, the world building was really compelling but easy to understand and follow. kinda gave me RWBY vibes with the hunters and the artifacts.
There are so many lovable characters and I will be honest for the first half of the book I definitely prefer some of the side characters to the main protag, but she found her feet as the book went along.
Also would die for walnut just saying.
The story kept me engaged and the more I read the harder it was to put down. I did not expect the ending...well.. did one bit but not the reveal at the end. usually, I am pretty good at guessing, so it did catch me off guard.
now I need to wait like 2 years for the next one 😭😭
January 5, 2026
Shadow Reaper by Lynette Noni
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
This was such a fun read! From the very first page, I was hooked. Viri is the kind of FMC who immediately pulls you in; her story is captivating and her spirit is impossible not to root for. The world Lynette Noni has built is both fun and intriguing, with fierce hunters, mysterious reapers, a while host of magical lore that left me desperate to know more.
🥹 Found Family:
The best part of this story, the bit that truly stole my heart, was the found family vibe. Viri’s unexpected gang of friends and reluctant allies is the kind of crew you’d give anything to be part of- loyal, chaotic, and endlessly endearing.
👏 Plot:
This book is a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Some I smugly thought I saw coming… others blindsided me completely. And that ending? Lynette, how could you?? The first book isn’t even officially out yet and I already need my hands on book two!
❤️ Romance:
Then there’s Viri and Reeve. The perfect duo. Their banter sparkles with attraction, wit, and charm. I fell hard for Reeve's cocky charisma (as did Viri, though she’ll never admit it). I’ve already saved so many of their quotes because they’re just that good.
Verdict: Shadow Reaper is everything I want in a YA fantasy- immersive worldbuilding, a heroine you can’t help but cheer for, a found family you can't help smile around, and a duo whose chemistry lights up every page. This is a series I’ll be obsessing over for a long time.
A big thank you to House of YA and Lynette Noni for providing me an ARC of this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars
This was such a fun read! From the very first page, I was hooked. Viri is the kind of FMC who immediately pulls you in; her story is captivating and her spirit is impossible not to root for. The world Lynette Noni has built is both fun and intriguing, with fierce hunters, mysterious reapers, a while host of magical lore that left me desperate to know more.
🥹 Found Family:
The best part of this story, the bit that truly stole my heart, was the found family vibe. Viri’s unexpected gang of friends and reluctant allies is the kind of crew you’d give anything to be part of- loyal, chaotic, and endlessly endearing.
👏 Plot:
This book is a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Some I smugly thought I saw coming… others blindsided me completely. And that ending? Lynette, how could you?? The first book isn’t even officially out yet and I already need my hands on book two!
❤️ Romance:
Then there’s Viri and Reeve. The perfect duo. Their banter sparkles with attraction, wit, and charm. I fell hard for Reeve's cocky charisma (as did Viri, though she’ll never admit it). I’ve already saved so many of their quotes because they’re just that good.
Verdict: Shadow Reaper is everything I want in a YA fantasy- immersive worldbuilding, a heroine you can’t help but cheer for, a found family you can't help smile around, and a duo whose chemistry lights up every page. This is a series I’ll be obsessing over for a long time.
A big thank you to House of YA and Lynette Noni for providing me an ARC of this book!
January 19, 2026
ARC Reader Book Review 🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first half wasn’t my fave. I felt like it just dragged so long and I wasn’t connecting w/ any of the characters as much…
But there was def a turn around in the second half. Was it a substantial turn around? So-So.
I do think the plot has potential though. I just wasn’t super immersed as I wanted to be.
Overall, if the first half isn’t for you (like me), def try to push through to the second half ‘cause I def felt like it picked up more and the ending!!
I love a good twist.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first half wasn’t my fave. I felt like it just dragged so long and I wasn’t connecting w/ any of the characters as much…
But there was def a turn around in the second half. Was it a substantial turn around? So-So.
I do think the plot has potential though. I just wasn’t super immersed as I wanted to be.
Overall, if the first half isn’t for you (like me), def try to push through to the second half ‘cause I def felt like it picked up more and the ending!!
I love a good twist.
Want to read
July 31, 2025I’d sell my best friend(s) to read this book NOW
Want to read
August 1, 2025Has me on chokehold 🤪
Want to read
January 15, 2026A VERY exciting ARC!!!
Want to read
January 18, 2026waiting impatiently for the release date.
arcs
January 15, 2026just got the arc, this is the best day ever
Want to read
July 28, 2025*fell to my knees* I'm so excited!!
December 22, 2025
MY JAW IS ON THE FLOOR!!!!!
The most captivating, magically charged, chemistry infused, banter filled, gut wrenching YA Fantasy that I've read in a long time!!!
Topped with a cliff hanger that will set your teeth on edge with so many twists and turns that you are glued to the page!!!
" No matter how dark the shadows seem, you'll never be alone in them. I promise. "
I was thrown head first into this world from the get go, the pacing - perfect! The characters, the plot, the magic system!!! All completely spot on!! I had such a hard time putting this down, that for days I was up till the early hours of the morning reading - pfft sleep .. not needed.
It was clear to me from the very start that this was going to be one of my favourite reads this year. The world building and unique magic system were both key elements that I found highly enjoyable and very easy to get lost in the world Lynette has created.
This is a YA Fantasy ( first in a duology ) - BUT its definitely on the darker and more mature side in terms of the creatures and magic used. No spice - which I love! Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against spice in a book. The way Lynette writes though, there is just no need for it. The story line is incredibly strong and unique on its own and she has a beautiful way of weaving pure chemistry between characters that doesn't feel the need to rely on any spicy romance especially since the main characters are between 17yrs - 22yrs. The entire story is clean, well executed and packed full of tension both between characters and storyline. The pacing between each scene is so fluid, it doesn't feel rushed nor does it feel dragging. I was captivated the entire time, chasing each new revelation.
" You can lie to yourself all you want, Little Shadow, but the next time you ask me to kiss you, we both know it'll be because you want it as much as I do."
STORYLINE
At 17years old, Viri is one of the youngest and most revered Hunters in the city. She along with other Hunters and city gaurds called the Nox, protect the city from Reapers - A person who siphons magic from another, enhancing their senses, speed, strength, healing and longer lifespans with their stolen magic. After the most reknown Reaper Priest kills her parents when she was just 11, Viri vows to hunt him down and exact her revenge.. but when his right hand man gets himself caught and thrown in the Noxs magically warded underground jail cell - the one and only person he will agree to talk to is Viri. Breaking almost every rule known to Hunter and Nox alike, Viri knows this could be her one shot at getting close to the Reaper Priest she has been hunting for 7 years, and she has a lot of questions. But when she finally sees the Reaper Priests second in charge, he offers her a bargain she knows she shouldn't take - His freedom for the answers she so desperately craves.
Characters
FMC - Viridia Solace ( Viri )
I found it very easy to love and admire the stength Viri exuded. Surviving such a broken past, she wasn't the kind of girl to be a victim. She had strengths AND weaknesses. There is nothing worse that having a female main character that is perfect at everything, there needs to be some grit and flaws that grounds them as a person, things they can overcome on multiple different levels and this is exactly what Viri offered. I appreciated the way I was privy to her internal struggles and her thought process, how she came to decisions and not every decision was correct. I also loved her relationship with her bestfriend Wynter. It felt fun and light with the under current of seriousness. Pure acceptance of each other and even with a difference of opinion, the respect and complete trust they both shared.
I find a lot of Lynette Nonis side characters offer very unique, loveable and relatable qualities that speak to very strong found family connections that you can't help but fall in love with.
MMC - Reeve
I loved this character the moment he came into the story. His overly confident attitude that held just a hint of cockiness with the full effect of knowing he was in complete control of every room he occupied. That sureness of himself that just exuded clarity without being overbearing in a suffocating kind of way. The familiarity that he toyed with Viri and the banter he so easily pulled from her, coupled with the fierceness in which he protected her. From the very start he has been my favorite character and I can't wait to see where book two fleshes out his story a bit more!!! That cliffhanger had me gagged!!
Side Character - Jonas
Another side character that I just LOVE!!! And yes I know I say that a lot! I did tell you already, all of Lynettes Side characters are top tier. When I picture Jonas, I envision him like a younger Milo from the Disney movie Atlantis, except he has an adorable bunny he takes with him everywhere! More so the personality characteristics than the physical appearance. Jonas is incredibly smart, equal parts eager and humble to learn and explore magic, a bit timid and fiercely loyal. We loveeeeee Jonas and of course his bunny Walnut!
I don't want to go to much further into more side characters or villains as I don't want to give away any spoilers !! And trust me.. you want to ride this roller-coaster!!
The Magic System -
This was very intriguing and highly captivating, yet easy to understand. Babies are born with a kernal of magic that grows then peaks around the age of 14, children are then encouraged to surrender their magic to one of 4 Obelisk's in the corners of the city of Aravell which fuel the magic into warding the city, stopping the life threatening Blackmist from seeping across the boarders. After sacrificing their magic for the greater good, people are left with a small kernal of magic that is tied to their life force, if children don't sacrifice their magic by the age of 14 they risk their magic growing too much and causing a burn out resulting in death or mindless existence. Because of the large amounts of magic flowing through the children's bodies, they have become the largest target for the Reapers who are addicted to syphoning magic. When children start disappearing without a trace Viri knows undoubtedly its the Reaper Priest she has been hunting and vows to do whatever it takes, whatever the price to stop him.
Tropes include -
• Strong Found Family
• Childhood friends to Enemys to something not defined but the chemistry is scorching!
• He falls first
• So much banter!
• Jail Breaks / Heists and a dangerous forbidden forest style Journey.
• Forced Proximity
Thank you so very much to Lynette Noni, Bec & Penguin Books Australia for sending me this incredible book!! It really has been one of my favourite reads all year and I am very excited to see it on shelves for its release in June!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Shadow Reaper by Lynette Noni reminded me exactly why I fell in love with her writing in the first place. After finishing my ARC through NetGalley, I can honestly say I missed her storytelling more than I realized. I adored The Prison Healer trilogy, and this book gave me that same feeling—sharp twists, layered characters, and a plot that never stops moving. Shadow Reaper absolutely did not disappoint.
Set in the dangerous city of Aravell, where blackmist kills on contact and reapers steal magic from children, the story immediately pulls you into a dark, high-stakes world. Viridia Solace is such a strong, driven main character, fueled by grief, anger, and a desperate need for justice after her parents’ murder. Her tension-filled dynamic with Reeve Ashton is one of the best parts of the book. Their relationship is a perfect example of “never bargain with a reaper,” yet that’s exactly what Viri finds herself doing, with consequences that are both thrilling and emotionally complicated.
What I really appreciated is how this book uses familiar tropes without feeling tired or watered down. Enemies-to-allies-to-friends-to-potential-lovers, hidden powers, alchemy, magic, found family—it’s all here, but handled with care and originality. The story is very plot-forward, and the romance is clearly a subplot. If you’re looking for a steamy romantasy, this isn’t it. But if you love rich worldbuilding, intense action, and emotional tension that builds slowly and naturally, this book delivers.
The pacing is excellent, the twists are relentless, and the emotional beats land beautifully. You can feel how personal this book is, and knowing that writing it helped Lynette Noni heal and find her way back to storytelling makes it even more special. There’s heart behind every page.
Overall, Shadow Reaper was an incredibly enjoyable read. It’s gripping, clever, and full of the kind of storytelling that reminds you why you love fantasy in the first place. The book design is also stunning, and I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy. This is a powerful start to a new duology? trilogy? perhaps either way I’m already counting down until the next book
Set in the dangerous city of Aravell, where blackmist kills on contact and reapers steal magic from children, the story immediately pulls you into a dark, high-stakes world. Viridia Solace is such a strong, driven main character, fueled by grief, anger, and a desperate need for justice after her parents’ murder. Her tension-filled dynamic with Reeve Ashton is one of the best parts of the book. Their relationship is a perfect example of “never bargain with a reaper,” yet that’s exactly what Viri finds herself doing, with consequences that are both thrilling and emotionally complicated.
What I really appreciated is how this book uses familiar tropes without feeling tired or watered down. Enemies-to-allies-to-friends-to-potential-lovers, hidden powers, alchemy, magic, found family—it’s all here, but handled with care and originality. The story is very plot-forward, and the romance is clearly a subplot. If you’re looking for a steamy romantasy, this isn’t it. But if you love rich worldbuilding, intense action, and emotional tension that builds slowly and naturally, this book delivers.
The pacing is excellent, the twists are relentless, and the emotional beats land beautifully. You can feel how personal this book is, and knowing that writing it helped Lynette Noni heal and find her way back to storytelling makes it even more special. There’s heart behind every page.
Overall, Shadow Reaper was an incredibly enjoyable read. It’s gripping, clever, and full of the kind of storytelling that reminds you why you love fantasy in the first place. The book design is also stunning, and I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy. This is a powerful start to a new duology? trilogy? perhaps either way I’m already counting down until the next book
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Every single book Lynette Noni writes becomes an instant favourite, and Shadow Reaper is no exception.
"You already have everything you need to succeed. Trust yourself. Trust your friends."
Viridia Solace - Viri - has spent her life as a Hunter, hunting Reapers who kill children by siphoning their magic to chase a power high. And for Viri, it's personal. Her own parents had been killed by the leader of the Reapers seven years ago, when everything she ever knew was decimated and she was left alone to grieve and then vow vengeance.
Her chance comes when the right hand to the Reaper Priest is arrested and has the knowledge she needs to find her enemy. But he will only help her in exchange for his freedom. So Viri finds herself working alongside Reeve Ashton who makes her realise there is even more at stake than her personal vendetta.
So I LOVE Viri. She's badass and capable, not afraid to bend rules and also is able to admit when she is wrong - eventually.
I also love the rest of the crew, especially Walnut and I hope he gets more page time in the next one!
The banter and humour in this had me smiling and laughing for the first half of the book before it started to get real and then it was all the other emotions hitting hard and fast. There were twists and turns, some more predictable than others, but all made this book a non-stop RIDE right up until the very end and I am sitting here still in shock and disbelief and anguish that I will have to wait so long to find out what happens next.
The plot, the characters, the banter, the freaking twists - everything is a delicious 5 star meal and I am hungry for more!
"You already have everything you need to succeed. Trust yourself. Trust your friends."
Viridia Solace - Viri - has spent her life as a Hunter, hunting Reapers who kill children by siphoning their magic to chase a power high. And for Viri, it's personal. Her own parents had been killed by the leader of the Reapers seven years ago, when everything she ever knew was decimated and she was left alone to grieve and then vow vengeance.
Her chance comes when the right hand to the Reaper Priest is arrested and has the knowledge she needs to find her enemy. But he will only help her in exchange for his freedom. So Viri finds herself working alongside Reeve Ashton who makes her realise there is even more at stake than her personal vendetta.
So I LOVE Viri. She's badass and capable, not afraid to bend rules and also is able to admit when she is wrong - eventually.
I also love the rest of the crew, especially Walnut and I hope he gets more page time in the next one!
The banter and humour in this had me smiling and laughing for the first half of the book before it started to get real and then it was all the other emotions hitting hard and fast. There were twists and turns, some more predictable than others, but all made this book a non-stop RIDE right up until the very end and I am sitting here still in shock and disbelief and anguish that I will have to wait so long to find out what happens next.
The plot, the characters, the banter, the freaking twists - everything is a delicious 5 star meal and I am hungry for more!
January 19, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Shadow Reaper is the first book in a new YA fantasy series following a young reaper hunter (Viridia) who is forced to work with her childhood friend (Reeve) turned enemy against the reapers who are led by the Reaper Priest, the man that murdered her parents. Left with no other choice to get the answers she has searched years for, Reeve, who is caught and imprisoned, offers a bargain she couldn’t say no to - his freedom for the answers she seeks. However, they say to never bargain with a reaper. Filled with high stakes, quests, unique magic, and some unexpected truths and twists - this is such a fun YA fantasy book coming June 2026!
🧪found family
🧪unique magical system
🧪enemies to lovers
🧪high stakes and quests
🧪murder and mystery
I really enjoyed reading this! Between the world building, an unique magic system, villains that you might can’t quite hate, and plot twists that hurt your soul a little - I enjoyed this book so much and it was all that I was expecting! There is friendship, betrayals, redemption, and twists that make it hard to put down. If you’re looking for an adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat this will be one to read! I loved the characters, the history that is revealed through old letters providing a background to the current situation, and even a cute little sidekick bunny that’ll you will want to keep. The ending will hurt and leave you aching for book 2! This could easily be the best series of hers yet!
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books for the ARC!!
Shadow Reaper is the first book in a new YA fantasy series following a young reaper hunter (Viridia) who is forced to work with her childhood friend (Reeve) turned enemy against the reapers who are led by the Reaper Priest, the man that murdered her parents. Left with no other choice to get the answers she has searched years for, Reeve, who is caught and imprisoned, offers a bargain she couldn’t say no to - his freedom for the answers she seeks. However, they say to never bargain with a reaper. Filled with high stakes, quests, unique magic, and some unexpected truths and twists - this is such a fun YA fantasy book coming June 2026!
🧪found family
🧪unique magical system
🧪enemies to lovers
🧪high stakes and quests
🧪murder and mystery
I really enjoyed reading this! Between the world building, an unique magic system, villains that you might can’t quite hate, and plot twists that hurt your soul a little - I enjoyed this book so much and it was all that I was expecting! There is friendship, betrayals, redemption, and twists that make it hard to put down. If you’re looking for an adventure that keeps you on the edge of your seat this will be one to read! I loved the characters, the history that is revealed through old letters providing a background to the current situation, and even a cute little sidekick bunny that’ll you will want to keep. The ending will hurt and leave you aching for book 2! This could easily be the best series of hers yet!
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books for the ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
To say that I was excited for this book would be a massive understatement. The Prison Healer series is one of my all-time favorite YA fantasy series and I could not wait to read more from this author. If I could read a new Lynette Noni fantasy novel every day for the rest of my life, I would still want to read more.
I really enjoyed the world-building in this world and I thought that there was a unique magic system. Noni's writing always feels very immersive and it felt like I was walking right next to the characters in this book. I thought that the beginning dragged on a little bit. It felt like the plot was just coasting along and that is a problem I have with a lot of first books of series, so I don't think that this problem is necessarily the author's fault. I understand that in book one, there is a lot of setup which is not necessarily always going to be the most exciting thing to read. However, the latter half of this book was absolutely fantastic. There were so many revelations and twists and turns. Truly, mind the cliff at the end of this book. The end of this book set up what I am sure will be a crazy finale to this duology and I cannot wait to read the finale to Viri and Reeve's story.
To say that I was excited for this book would be a massive understatement. The Prison Healer series is one of my all-time favorite YA fantasy series and I could not wait to read more from this author. If I could read a new Lynette Noni fantasy novel every day for the rest of my life, I would still want to read more.
I really enjoyed the world-building in this world and I thought that there was a unique magic system. Noni's writing always feels very immersive and it felt like I was walking right next to the characters in this book. I thought that the beginning dragged on a little bit. It felt like the plot was just coasting along and that is a problem I have with a lot of first books of series, so I don't think that this problem is necessarily the author's fault. I understand that in book one, there is a lot of setup which is not necessarily always going to be the most exciting thing to read. However, the latter half of this book was absolutely fantastic. There were so many revelations and twists and turns. Truly, mind the cliff at the end of this book. The end of this book set up what I am sure will be a crazy finale to this duology and I cannot wait to read the finale to Viri and Reeve's story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In a world with magic and reapers who steal magic from children, we meet Viri, a reaper hunter. Her story, is part romance, part suspense-filled fantasy, and entirely captivating. Anyone who has read the author's Prison Healer Trilogy knows that she is great at world building and telling a compelling tale and she doesn't disappoint with this first book of her next series. The lore, magic, and characters are well developed and I found myself interested in more than just Viri but her friends and found family. The story unfolds with plenty of curves and twists, some predictable, others surprising but all building up a plot that culminates in a cliffhanger that falls into a "twist of the knife" ending and I'm looking forward to the sequel to see how this twisted end gets untangled.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Random House Children's Books - Knopf Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
I received access to this eARC thru NetGalley (for which I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher, Random House Children's Books - Knopf Books for Young Readers) for an honest review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book! Below is my honest review.
This was a fun read. The world is interesting, but not too complex where you couldn't understand it. All people have magic, but once you hit 14 years old, you have to impart it and give it to these obelisks, which helps protect the area from the blackmist (not a good thing). Our main character Viri is a hunter who hunts reapers, people who steal magic from others as it provides them with extra powers. Her childhood best friend -- aka her enemy who is a reaper -- asks for her help in stopping the Reaper Priest from killing everyone.
I love Lynette Noni and her books, but I will say, this one was not my favorite. I felt like the story suffered from info-dumping. Essentially, anything important to the plot was basically told through a long monologue. While I still enjoyed it, I think some of the information could have been told in some other format. A lot of the times, the main characters spend so much time explaining what happened/the world. There are a lot of twists and turns that sort of makes up for that fact, but some twists and turns felt over the top.
HOWEVER, despite my issues, I will still read the second book because I still enjoyed reading this one.
This was a fun read. The world is interesting, but not too complex where you couldn't understand it. All people have magic, but once you hit 14 years old, you have to impart it and give it to these obelisks, which helps protect the area from the blackmist (not a good thing). Our main character Viri is a hunter who hunts reapers, people who steal magic from others as it provides them with extra powers. Her childhood best friend -- aka her enemy who is a reaper -- asks for her help in stopping the Reaper Priest from killing everyone.
I love Lynette Noni and her books, but I will say, this one was not my favorite. I felt like the story suffered from info-dumping. Essentially, anything important to the plot was basically told through a long monologue. While I still enjoyed it, I think some of the information could have been told in some other format. A lot of the times, the main characters spend so much time explaining what happened/the world. There are a lot of twists and turns that sort of makes up for that fact, but some twists and turns felt over the top.
HOWEVER, despite my issues, I will still read the second book because I still enjoyed reading this one.
January 14, 2026
2.5⭐️
Ugh. I hated having to give that rating, but this was my most disappointing read in a while. Lynette Noni isn’t a one hit wonder. I’ve read plenty of her books and loved them. But this one seemed so shallow.
If you’ve read her before, specifically The Prison Healer series, you know she has twists DOWN. But the difference was that most of the twists in this book were either predictable or just seemed to come out of nowhere. The lack of groundwork made them unbelievable.
On top of this, the first half of the book was simultaneously too long and also not deep enough for me to truly love the characters. It also felt a bit like a teacher who wanted me to learn something.
At about 70% through, the story picked up and I sped through the end, but sadly, it still didn’t hit like her other books.
I don’t mean to turn away all the Noni fans. Maybe you’ll like it. But for me, this was a miss. (Although I still can’t wait for her next book! I think I’ll always be excited for a new book from her.)
Ugh. I hated having to give that rating, but this was my most disappointing read in a while. Lynette Noni isn’t a one hit wonder. I’ve read plenty of her books and loved them. But this one seemed so shallow.
If you’ve read her before, specifically The Prison Healer series, you know she has twists DOWN. But the difference was that most of the twists in this book were either predictable or just seemed to come out of nowhere. The lack of groundwork made them unbelievable.
On top of this, the first half of the book was simultaneously too long and also not deep enough for me to truly love the characters. It also felt a bit like a teacher who wanted me to learn something.
At about 70% through, the story picked up and I sped through the end, but sadly, it still didn’t hit like her other books.
I don’t mean to turn away all the Noni fans. Maybe you’ll like it. But for me, this was a miss. (Although I still can’t wait for her next book! I think I’ll always be excited for a new book from her.)
December 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The queen of YA Fantasy has returned 📣
First I need to thank Penguin for sending me an extra early arc. I cannot be more grateful 😭
Lynette Noni has done it again by giving us an immersive world with a beautiful magic system, steeped in mystery where every layer gets revealed and you think you know what’s going to happen BUT YOU’RE WRONG!
What I loved:
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Strong FMC, driven by loss and determination
🗡️ Accessible world building - Lynette makes a complex fantasy world easy to follow and learn
🗡️ Witty MMC, oh the charm on this one is 10/10
🗡️ Cliff hangers and plot twists to honestly keep you guessing but make so much sense when it’s revealed
This is a MUST READ for anyone who enjoys YA fantasy, dark magic, mystery, adventure, a slow burn romance, and high stakes
The queen of YA Fantasy has returned 📣
First I need to thank Penguin for sending me an extra early arc. I cannot be more grateful 😭
Lynette Noni has done it again by giving us an immersive world with a beautiful magic system, steeped in mystery where every layer gets revealed and you think you know what’s going to happen BUT YOU’RE WRONG!
What I loved:
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Strong FMC, driven by loss and determination
🗡️ Accessible world building - Lynette makes a complex fantasy world easy to follow and learn
🗡️ Witty MMC, oh the charm on this one is 10/10
🗡️ Cliff hangers and plot twists to honestly keep you guessing but make so much sense when it’s revealed
This is a MUST READ for anyone who enjoys YA fantasy, dark magic, mystery, adventure, a slow burn romance, and high stakes
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I’m not sure that I have a lot to say about this book but not for any bad reasons. For a while I have been a bit sick of YA Fantasy because it all has been dogpiling on the same tropes and plots and all feels the same and feels lacklustre.
This book was like that’s but wasn’t. It did fit very securely into the YA Fantasy tropes sphere but it wasn’t doing it in a completely unoriginal way. This book felt like going back to when I was 16 and discovering fantasy. It was comfortable and also surprising and just a very solid read.
If you have been a fan of the Sarah J Maas ‘Throne of Glass’ series I would definitely give this one a go as the dark, cloaks and daggers vibe feel similar to that. As well, if you liked Noni’s ‘Prison Healer’ trilogy you should try this one.
Thank you Penguin Random House for the ARC (specifically Nathan, you take such good care of us).
This book was like that’s but wasn’t. It did fit very securely into the YA Fantasy tropes sphere but it wasn’t doing it in a completely unoriginal way. This book felt like going back to when I was 16 and discovering fantasy. It was comfortable and also surprising and just a very solid read.
If you have been a fan of the Sarah J Maas ‘Throne of Glass’ series I would definitely give this one a go as the dark, cloaks and daggers vibe feel similar to that. As well, if you liked Noni’s ‘Prison Healer’ trilogy you should try this one.
Thank you Penguin Random House for the ARC (specifically Nathan, you take such good care of us).
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have mixed feelings about Shadow Reaper. It's a very interesting mix of tropes (mysterious history, quest to save the "world", twist on vampirism). The magic system is different and interesting, and the cast of characters vast, although rather shallow in their motivations. I had trouble connecting with Viri and Reeve - Reeve obviously hiding multiple secrets and Viri going against all common sense half the time. The story took several twists, ending on a cliffhanger. I'm interested to see Viri's story continue in the sequel and hope several questions are answered- why were dragons involved/connected to the Mages? What's going on with the mainland?
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. This review is my own.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. This review is my own.
January 20, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you netgallery for allowing me to read this arc.
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for the next one. It is full of plenty of twists and turns, I will say some of them I was able to predict (probably due to the plentiful of books Ive read in similar genres), but I still couldn’t help the shock that came when I discovered I was right. That being said there was still plenty of plot twists I could never have predicted. While reading I felt truly immersed into the story and experienced so many emotions. I need the next book already, because oh my god that ending. I highly recommend reading this book when it is released!!
Thank you netgallery for allowing me to read this arc.
I throughly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait for the next one. It is full of plenty of twists and turns, I will say some of them I was able to predict (probably due to the plentiful of books Ive read in similar genres), but I still couldn’t help the shock that came when I discovered I was right. That being said there was still plenty of plot twists I could never have predicted. While reading I felt truly immersed into the story and experienced so many emotions. I need the next book already, because oh my god that ending. I highly recommend reading this book when it is released!!
Want to read
January 5, 2026i'm SO SO SO SO excited for this book! I love Lynette and her beautiful writing style and characters! I ADORE prison healer and would sacrifice ANYTHING to reread it again for the first time! (Jaren is literally STANDARDS). her Akarnae series and new release Wandering Wild are also AMAZING and I can't wait for this to be released 💗🫶🏻
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