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Order of Reapers #1
Veil of Death and Shadow
Six years ago, the tightly-coiled barrier between the supernatural world and our own collapsed.
Nothing since has been the same, least of all me.
My name is Mareena, and for as long as I can remember, nearly every person I've grown close to has met with an early my parents, extended family, first boyfriend, first girlfriend...Look, you get the idea. We'll be here all day if I lay the full list out for you.
I guess just be thankful I've never had a pet.
My solution to this meddlesome Let no one close.
(Other than my equally meddlesome best friend, who rejects my every attempt to push her away.)
And curse or not, I've managed to build a pretty comfortable life, all things considered.
I have a home, a job, and a small community that I care about. Things I've fought tooth and nail to get—and protect.
My plan was supposed to be simple. Easy. Or so I thought. Simplicity flew out the window with The Undoing.
Armed with my best friend, a crow that's set up permanent residence in our apartment (to be clear, absolutely *not* a pet—he's a freaking menace), and the increasingly terrifying visions I've been getting, I have to find a way to survive in this strange new world.
But try as I might to protect my small world from death's embrace, death comes calling anyway—in the form of two mysterious men that only I seem able to see. They wait on the sidelines, eager to pull me towards my destiny. Whether I'm ready for it or not.
Don't worry.
Death may be relentless, but so am I.
Veil of Death and Shadow is Book One in the Order of Reapers. It will end on a cliffhanger.
You can expect angst, romance, a stubborn FMC, and a chaotic post-apocalyptic world filled with equal parts danger and excitement. Mareena will end up with multiple partners - no choosing.
Tropes You Can Expect to
Why Choose (slow build)Apocalyptic Urban FantasyEnemies to LoversForbidden RomanceForced ProximitySlow burn romance with early spiceFound Family
This series takes place in The Protector Guild Universe, after the events in The World Undone. You do not have to read The Protector Guild before beginning Mareena's story, though you will encounter spoilers for the previous series.
And if you've read TPG, get ready for a few surprise, familiar faces ;)
Suggested Grayverse Reading
The Protector Guild
1. Academy of Protectors
2. Forging the Guild
3. Dreams of Hell
4. Hell and Back
5. Abyss of Ruins
Saving the Protector (novella)
6. Fashioned by Flames
7. Dark Before Dawn
8. The World Undone
Order of
1. Veil of Death and Shadow
Nothing since has been the same, least of all me.
My name is Mareena, and for as long as I can remember, nearly every person I've grown close to has met with an early my parents, extended family, first boyfriend, first girlfriend...Look, you get the idea. We'll be here all day if I lay the full list out for you.
I guess just be thankful I've never had a pet.
My solution to this meddlesome Let no one close.
(Other than my equally meddlesome best friend, who rejects my every attempt to push her away.)
And curse or not, I've managed to build a pretty comfortable life, all things considered.
I have a home, a job, and a small community that I care about. Things I've fought tooth and nail to get—and protect.
My plan was supposed to be simple. Easy. Or so I thought. Simplicity flew out the window with The Undoing.
Armed with my best friend, a crow that's set up permanent residence in our apartment (to be clear, absolutely *not* a pet—he's a freaking menace), and the increasingly terrifying visions I've been getting, I have to find a way to survive in this strange new world.
But try as I might to protect my small world from death's embrace, death comes calling anyway—in the form of two mysterious men that only I seem able to see. They wait on the sidelines, eager to pull me towards my destiny. Whether I'm ready for it or not.
Don't worry.
Death may be relentless, but so am I.
Veil of Death and Shadow is Book One in the Order of Reapers. It will end on a cliffhanger.
You can expect angst, romance, a stubborn FMC, and a chaotic post-apocalyptic world filled with equal parts danger and excitement. Mareena will end up with multiple partners - no choosing.
Tropes You Can Expect to
Why Choose (slow build)Apocalyptic Urban FantasyEnemies to LoversForbidden RomanceForced ProximitySlow burn romance with early spiceFound Family
This series takes place in The Protector Guild Universe, after the events in The World Undone. You do not have to read The Protector Guild before beginning Mareena's story, though you will encounter spoilers for the previous series.
And if you've read TPG, get ready for a few surprise, familiar faces ;)
Suggested Grayverse Reading
The Protector Guild
1. Academy of Protectors
2. Forging the Guild
3. Dreams of Hell
4. Hell and Back
5. Abyss of Ruins
Saving the Protector (novella)
6. Fashioned by Flames
7. Dark Before Dawn
8. The World Undone
Order of
1. Veil of Death and Shadow
498 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 10, 2025
260 people are currently reading
1855 people want to read
About the author
Gray Holborn
25 books353 followersHi! I'm Gray. I'm best known for my series, The Protector Guild - an 8-book completed series filled with all things angst and chaotic hijinks. I'm currently working on my second series, Order of Reapers, which is the follow up to The Protector Guild. At the moment, there are 10 books published in what I'm calling 'The Gray-verse.' Sounds ominous, right?
What can you expect from my stories?
First, you have to love a slow burn, angsty romance. I tend to get quite bored when my characters are happy and together, which is why I keep them in various stages of misery and yearning for as long as I can *que evil laugh.* Yes, my books are spicy, but they are far more focused on the plot of the story and character development (MUST LOVE INTERNAL CHARACTER MONOLOGUES OR I PROMISE YOU WILL HATE MY WRITING STYLE). Finally, both of my series focus on themes of and around the following: trauma, mental health, grief, community, found family, moral complexity, and dismantling oppressive systems (yes, yes, amongst the chaotic fun of a fantastical world and characters unabashedly pining for each other).
Sound like your jam? Great! Dive right in :D
As for me, when I'm not writing or reading or funneling entire seasons of TV into my brain in one night, I can be found hanging out with my cartoonish dog, staring at a wall for hours on end while I think through some tricky bit of character or plot arc, paddleboarding/kayaking alongside the local seals and sea lions (don't worry, I keep a respectful distance!), or pretending to enjoy camping. One day it will click for me. I hope.
What can you expect from my stories?
First, you have to love a slow burn, angsty romance. I tend to get quite bored when my characters are happy and together, which is why I keep them in various stages of misery and yearning for as long as I can *que evil laugh.* Yes, my books are spicy, but they are far more focused on the plot of the story and character development (MUST LOVE INTERNAL CHARACTER MONOLOGUES OR I PROMISE YOU WILL HATE MY WRITING STYLE). Finally, both of my series focus on themes of and around the following: trauma, mental health, grief, community, found family, moral complexity, and dismantling oppressive systems (yes, yes, amongst the chaotic fun of a fantastical world and characters unabashedly pining for each other).
Sound like your jam? Great! Dive right in :D
As for me, when I'm not writing or reading or funneling entire seasons of TV into my brain in one night, I can be found hanging out with my cartoonish dog, staring at a wall for hours on end while I think through some tricky bit of character or plot arc, paddleboarding/kayaking alongside the local seals and sea lions (don't worry, I keep a respectful distance!), or pretending to enjoy camping. One day it will click for me. I hope.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
May 8, 2025
4.5⭐️ dark eerie and twisty very much my vibe.
I cannot stop reading bangers lately, and this one hit the spot right from the first few pages. I could tell almost immediately it was exactly what I was in the mood for. The story is super unique our FMC genuinely thinks she’s cursed because people around her keep dying, and she can’t shake the feeling that death is following her.
There were so many things happening that I didn’t fully understand, but in the best way. You get little glimpses of the bigger picture without it all making sense right away, and that mystery had me so very invested and so very curious.
Now, this is going to be a why choose situation, but in this book, that part hasn’t kicked off yet. That said, the setup for book two is immaculate, and I just know when it hits, it’s going to be so everything, the way the dynamic was set up. I love it already.
The jumps between past and present were super smooth, and I really loved the writing style. The whole vibe is dark, mysterious, and post-apocalyptic (like, the world ended but no one knows how or why?)Plus, there’s this urban fantasy twist that made it even more fun.
Oh and did I mention there’s a pet crow named Menace? LOVE HIM🐦⬛
This was definitely one of those books I found myself thinking about during the day, mostly because I had a million questions I needed answers to. The author does such a good job of breadcrumbing just enough info to keep you feral for book two and I am, especially after that ending.
It’s not super spicy (yet), but the moments we do get with Kieran? So good. I swear I could hear his accent while I was reading. He’s snarky, a bit of a pain in the ass, and I absolutely loved every second of him. Little panty snatcher 🤭
If you’re looking for something that feels a little different and is clearly building up to something epic, definitely give this one a go. I freaking loved it and I already know once the why choose angle kicks in, I’m going to be completely obsessed and I think if this was just a tad shorter, it probably would’ve been five stars.
Thank you to the nerd fam for another BANGER🖤
I cannot stop reading bangers lately, and this one hit the spot right from the first few pages. I could tell almost immediately it was exactly what I was in the mood for. The story is super unique our FMC genuinely thinks she’s cursed because people around her keep dying, and she can’t shake the feeling that death is following her.
There were so many things happening that I didn’t fully understand, but in the best way. You get little glimpses of the bigger picture without it all making sense right away, and that mystery had me so very invested and so very curious.
Now, this is going to be a why choose situation, but in this book, that part hasn’t kicked off yet. That said, the setup for book two is immaculate, and I just know when it hits, it’s going to be so everything, the way the dynamic was set up. I love it already.
The jumps between past and present were super smooth, and I really loved the writing style. The whole vibe is dark, mysterious, and post-apocalyptic (like, the world ended but no one knows how or why?)Plus, there’s this urban fantasy twist that made it even more fun.
Oh and did I mention there’s a pet crow named Menace? LOVE HIM🐦⬛
This was definitely one of those books I found myself thinking about during the day, mostly because I had a million questions I needed answers to. The author does such a good job of breadcrumbing just enough info to keep you feral for book two and I am, especially after that ending.
It’s not super spicy (yet), but the moments we do get with Kieran? So good. I swear I could hear his accent while I was reading. He’s snarky, a bit of a pain in the ass, and I absolutely loved every second of him. Little panty snatcher 🤭
If you’re looking for something that feels a little different and is clearly building up to something epic, definitely give this one a go. I freaking loved it and I already know once the why choose angle kicks in, I’m going to be completely obsessed and I think if this was just a tad shorter, it probably would’ve been five stars.
Thank you to the nerd fam for another BANGER🖤
April 3, 2025
IThe idea and concept behind this book is awesome and has so much potential. I loved the characters, the vibes, and where the story will undoubtedly be heading in the next book. The writing quality is good and I really did enjoy reading.
However… my honest opinion? I really struggled with the length of the book for what it was. It could have been so much more powerful if it was instead edited down a lot and placed as a prequel to the next book.
That being said, I am looking forward to subsequent books and seeing Mareena’s journey…and actually getting some why choose action (it’s NOT in this one).
Thank you to NerdFam for the gifted copy 💕
However… my honest opinion? I really struggled with the length of the book for what it was. It could have been so much more powerful if it was instead edited down a lot and placed as a prequel to the next book.
That being said, I am looking forward to subsequent books and seeing Mareena’s journey…and actually getting some why choose action (it’s NOT in this one).
Thank you to NerdFam for the gifted copy 💕
May 6, 2025
I received an ARC from Nerd Fam. I am not being compensated for this review.
Slow, somewhat confusing start. But once you hit a crucial part a few chapters in, and you will know when you read it, it picks up and becomes delightful. I can't say the ending was a total shock. It has a bit of a cliffhanger, but it doesn't feel as if you're about to fall over the edge. It just makes you want more. I can't wait to read the next!
Slow, somewhat confusing start. But once you hit a crucial part a few chapters in, and you will know when you read it, it picks up and becomes delightful. I can't say the ending was a total shock. It has a bit of a cliffhanger, but it doesn't feel as if you're about to fall over the edge. It just makes you want more. I can't wait to read the next!
January 26, 2026
4.25 I ended up loving this book more than anticipated!! Paranormal world living in the mortal realm, hell yah.
May 8, 2025
Rating: ★★★★½
I loved this book. I went in somewhat blind, and I’m so glad I did — what a ride! The only real critique I have is that it felt a bit too long, almost like a prequel to what’s really coming.
We follow our FMC, Mareena, as her world is turned upside down by a cataclysmic event known as the Undoing. The world has fractured, transforming into a dystopian-like state filled with supernatural beings. Mareena has been through it! She’s lost her parents, her aunt, friends, and truly believes she’s cursed. Everyone she gets close to ends up dead. The only person she’s let in is her best friend and roommate, Sora — and their “pet” crow, Menace… who’s actually a dead Crombie (basically a sentient creature of the dead variety) with a serious kleptomania problem. He steals everything, and I love him.
The story jumps between timelines, the past (pre-Undoing) and the present, which I really enjoyed. In the past, Mareena meets Levi, a mysterious boy clearly carrying his own secrets. These two have instant chemistry, even though Mareena fights it hard. The yearning between them? Absolutely top tier.
In the present, we meet Kieran, and I won’t spoil anything, but he’s a wise-cracking Irish guy who keeps showing up around Mareena. After a super hot night at a demon club, let’s just say things get very interesting.
It’s also worth noting: this will end up being a why choose story, though those elements aren’t really present yet in book one — this is definitely more of a slow build in that regard.
One of my favorite moments is when the past and present timelines begin to merge — it’s such a satisfying twist that pulls everything together and raises the stakes dramatically.
There’s so much mystery woven through this story that I can’t say too much without spoiling it, but I genuinely loved so many aspects, especially how everything started to click into place. Again, it really feels like this is just the beginning of a much bigger journey.
I, for one, CANNOT wait for book two. The cliffhanger had me staring at a wall in shock.
I loved this book. I went in somewhat blind, and I’m so glad I did — what a ride! The only real critique I have is that it felt a bit too long, almost like a prequel to what’s really coming.
We follow our FMC, Mareena, as her world is turned upside down by a cataclysmic event known as the Undoing. The world has fractured, transforming into a dystopian-like state filled with supernatural beings. Mareena has been through it! She’s lost her parents, her aunt, friends, and truly believes she’s cursed. Everyone she gets close to ends up dead. The only person she’s let in is her best friend and roommate, Sora — and their “pet” crow, Menace… who’s actually a dead Crombie (basically a sentient creature of the dead variety) with a serious kleptomania problem. He steals everything, and I love him.
The story jumps between timelines, the past (pre-Undoing) and the present, which I really enjoyed. In the past, Mareena meets Levi, a mysterious boy clearly carrying his own secrets. These two have instant chemistry, even though Mareena fights it hard. The yearning between them? Absolutely top tier.
In the present, we meet Kieran, and I won’t spoil anything, but he’s a wise-cracking Irish guy who keeps showing up around Mareena. After a super hot night at a demon club, let’s just say things get very interesting.
It’s also worth noting: this will end up being a why choose story, though those elements aren’t really present yet in book one — this is definitely more of a slow build in that regard.
One of my favorite moments is when the past and present timelines begin to merge — it’s such a satisfying twist that pulls everything together and raises the stakes dramatically.
There’s so much mystery woven through this story that I can’t say too much without spoiling it, but I genuinely loved so many aspects, especially how everything started to click into place. Again, it really feels like this is just the beginning of a much bigger journey.
I, for one, CANNOT wait for book two. The cliffhanger had me staring at a wall in shock.
April 14, 2025
I feel like I just went on an excursion after this one.
Talk about drawing out every single emotion. This story made me laugh, cry, swoon, get mad…ugh!! It was so good!!!
Imagine going thru your entire life believing you’re cursed with death. What’s that mean? You believe that everyone you’ve ever let get close to you that has died, died because you cursed them to it simply because you cared for them.
That’s what the Fmc of this story believes, and because of that she’s always kept people at a distance, all except for her best friend Sora. These two have gone thru hell and back but they’ve finally gotten to a place in their life where things are starting to look up.
Then the world ends…….
okay maybe not really but that’s how they felt.
The world and the people around them become different. There’s power losses all over the place, the internet is no longer, and people are changing at a cellular level. Nobody knows how or why. Even after all that, the girls manage to create some semblance of normalcy and things are looking up. They’ve even decided to celebrate Mareena’s birthday, something they haven’t been doing too much of since the change. That night of celebration is literally the start of an intense and phenomenal story filled with excitement, emotional manipulation (for the reader, but we love it), character growth and development, banter with laugh out loud moments and tension building interactions, oh and the spice…..yeah it’s perfect. There are “other” characters who get introduced that I absolutely LOVED!!!! but I can’t say anything about them because it would give away too much but they had my heart screaming! And how this story ends……..talk about being left wanting more in the best way. My jaw dropped! I can’t wait for the next book.
Talk about drawing out every single emotion. This story made me laugh, cry, swoon, get mad…ugh!! It was so good!!!
Imagine going thru your entire life believing you’re cursed with death. What’s that mean? You believe that everyone you’ve ever let get close to you that has died, died because you cursed them to it simply because you cared for them.
That’s what the Fmc of this story believes, and because of that she’s always kept people at a distance, all except for her best friend Sora. These two have gone thru hell and back but they’ve finally gotten to a place in their life where things are starting to look up.
Then the world ends…….
okay maybe not really but that’s how they felt.
The world and the people around them become different. There’s power losses all over the place, the internet is no longer, and people are changing at a cellular level. Nobody knows how or why. Even after all that, the girls manage to create some semblance of normalcy and things are looking up. They’ve even decided to celebrate Mareena’s birthday, something they haven’t been doing too much of since the change. That night of celebration is literally the start of an intense and phenomenal story filled with excitement, emotional manipulation (for the reader, but we love it), character growth and development, banter with laugh out loud moments and tension building interactions, oh and the spice…..yeah it’s perfect. There are “other” characters who get introduced that I absolutely LOVED!!!! but I can’t say anything about them because it would give away too much but they had my heart screaming! And how this story ends……..talk about being left wanting more in the best way. My jaw dropped! I can’t wait for the next book.
April 11, 2025
This book was a fantastic new dark urban why choose fantasy with dystopian elements. Some of the tropes you’ll encounter are SLOW BURN (I mean that), why choose (fair warning it builds up to this there is not much of this in book 1 also the FMC Likes women too be aware),forbidden romance,forced proximity, stubborn FMC, some horror elements, and paranormal elements. This book has fantastic mental health representation and great banter.
This book has dual POV at points and shifting timelines and while I did not find the shifting timelines confusing I can see how the timelines would confuse others.
This book centers around Mareena our FMC who I call Mar after an event called the “Undoing” creating some post apocalypse themes. She has a good amount of trauma that is largely addressed and unpacked in this book especially in the first half. She is with her bestie known as Menace which is a crow named Crombie and honestly Crombie. Steals the show!
There are some wonderful banter filled moments like “diet friendship” NGL I cackled at that and then so,em swoon worthy moments where one of the potential MMC’S reads to her as she falls asleep….YASSSSSSS please and add in petting my head while you do it WIFE ME UP!
This does end on a major cliffhanger but that just has me ready and excited for book 2!
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the above and is looking for their next great read! overall I give this book a solid 4 ⭐️ and 2 🌶️! Definitely check this out today it’s out now and on KU !
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the Author Gray Holborn for this arc!
This book has dual POV at points and shifting timelines and while I did not find the shifting timelines confusing I can see how the timelines would confuse others.
This book centers around Mareena our FMC who I call Mar after an event called the “Undoing” creating some post apocalypse themes. She has a good amount of trauma that is largely addressed and unpacked in this book especially in the first half. She is with her bestie known as Menace which is a crow named Crombie and honestly Crombie. Steals the show!
There are some wonderful banter filled moments like “diet friendship” NGL I cackled at that and then so,em swoon worthy moments where one of the potential MMC’S reads to her as she falls asleep….YASSSSSSS please and add in petting my head while you do it WIFE ME UP!
This does end on a major cliffhanger but that just has me ready and excited for book 2!
I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the above and is looking for their next great read! overall I give this book a solid 4 ⭐️ and 2 🌶️! Definitely check this out today it’s out now and on KU !
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the Author Gray Holborn for this arc!
March 22, 2025
First, thank you to @TheNerdFam for the eARC! Second, I really enjoyed the concept of this book. I’m not sure if because I’m a mood reader, I just wasn’t into it as much while reading or what. It seemed a bit slow throughout and the constant past to present chapters were sometimes hard to keep up with. The last 100pgs really did it for me though. It made me wish that the rest was kinda sped along, discussing Mars’ past along with the beginnings of The Undoing to get towards where it got good. I would have enjoyed more of the situation at the end (trying not to give spoilers), instead of it ending the way it did to lead to book 2. I did enjoy the way the worlds clashed, causing a partial apocalypse with demons (vampires, succubus, werewolves, etc). Would I read next book? Yes. Would I have maybe liked this more in a shorter version, like a novella? Also yes. lol either way, I still enjoyed it!
April 18, 2025
y'all. If I had known that the second book was maybe coming out in April 2026 I would not have picked this up. I have zero memory and no follow through when they are spaced that muchhhhh, the only saving grace is that it doesn't end on a massive cliffhanger.
Okay this is a 3 maybe 3.5 for me based on personal book preferences not that it was not a well done book! spoilers.
Okay this book just had a ton going on, and parcing it out and still enjoying the moment was difficult. The following happens all at the same time with flashbacks and present time:
-mysterious apocalypse and world change
-a curse from death maybe? as well as a main character who doesn't know she has powers
-a secret society of some sort for Levi?
-an entire restructured system of cults and gangs that affect our story but not really in the story yet
-a dead/not really dead twin
-best friend being kidnapped
-past trauma on pretty much everyone's part
-and the slowest of all all slow burns with Levi in the past, and an angsty confusion and lies with Keiran in the present. Then Thorne ruins his memories for her so I'm assuming he's in the game too.
all of this is happening at once and I know I am missing more....so at times it was hard to stay connected and not think "what the hell is happening". Then at the end of a 500 page book we have less answers and more questions. Nothing gets resolved, and we now have the added confusion of she is now a reaper with her memory intact and has come face to face with "death" the one that killed her aunt, which I'm assuming is just another reaper? but WHO KNOWS BECAUSE WE KNOW NOTHING. I also have to be completely honest, I really don't want to read a whole book on trials. This urban fantasy set in a pretty basic city setting was good, I liked this, but a second book of her serving trials especially if she has to pretend not to know anyone (boo).
I will probably move on to the next book because I have so many lingering questions I just wish I felt more connection to the characters rather than trying to wade through my confusion and all the layers of this story which I am afraid won't come with any closure because with a list that long it's hard to hit all the marks.
Okay this is a 3 maybe 3.5 for me based on personal book preferences not that it was not a well done book! spoilers.
Okay this book just had a ton going on, and parcing it out and still enjoying the moment was difficult. The following happens all at the same time with flashbacks and present time:
-mysterious apocalypse and world change
-a curse from death maybe? as well as a main character who doesn't know she has powers
-a secret society of some sort for Levi?
-an entire restructured system of cults and gangs that affect our story but not really in the story yet
-a dead/not really dead twin
-best friend being kidnapped
-past trauma on pretty much everyone's part
-and the slowest of all all slow burns with Levi in the past, and an angsty confusion and lies with Keiran in the present. Then Thorne ruins his memories for her so I'm assuming he's in the game too.
all of this is happening at once and I know I am missing more....so at times it was hard to stay connected and not think "what the hell is happening". Then at the end of a 500 page book we have less answers and more questions. Nothing gets resolved, and we now have the added confusion of she is now a reaper with her memory intact and has come face to face with "death" the one that killed her aunt, which I'm assuming is just another reaper? but WHO KNOWS BECAUSE WE KNOW NOTHING. I also have to be completely honest, I really don't want to read a whole book on trials. This urban fantasy set in a pretty basic city setting was good, I liked this, but a second book of her serving trials especially if she has to pretend not to know anyone (boo).
I will probably move on to the next book because I have so many lingering questions I just wish I felt more connection to the characters rather than trying to wade through my confusion and all the layers of this story which I am afraid won't come with any closure because with a list that long it's hard to hit all the marks.
April 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐
I have a lot of mixed feelings about this book because whilst I enjoyed it for the most part, it was just so long and slow, and the time jumps were a bit of a headspin. The last 10% or so was where it really picked up for me, and then suddenly the book was finished and I was disappointed because I wanted more.
I enjoyed the premise of this book though. I liked Mareena’s character and learning about her past and present, and I found the worldbuilding to be rich and well written, but otherwise I would’ve preferred this to be a couple hundred pages shorter and to have been more so a prequel novella for the rest of the series. Whilst I was disappointed with this book, I definitely think (and hope!) I’m going to really enjoy the next book, based on the last few chapters of this one.
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for the digital arc. This review is entirely my own.
my bookstagram
I have a lot of mixed feelings about this book because whilst I enjoyed it for the most part, it was just so long and slow, and the time jumps were a bit of a headspin. The last 10% or so was where it really picked up for me, and then suddenly the book was finished and I was disappointed because I wanted more.
I enjoyed the premise of this book though. I liked Mareena’s character and learning about her past and present, and I found the worldbuilding to be rich and well written, but otherwise I would’ve preferred this to be a couple hundred pages shorter and to have been more so a prequel novella for the rest of the series. Whilst I was disappointed with this book, I definitely think (and hope!) I’m going to really enjoy the next book, based on the last few chapters of this one.
Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for the digital arc. This review is entirely my own.
my bookstagram
May 16, 2025
I had to pick this book up and restart it three different times before it finally clicked for me. The premise is really interesting, and once I got into the story, I did enjoy it. That said, it felt like the book could have easily been 100 pages shorter. The author uses this poetic, prose-like writing style that’s definitely beautiful, but at times felt unnecessary and a bit overdone for my taste. I think I just might not be the target audience for this one, but I can see how others would fall in love with the vibe, characters, and world-building.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2025
3.5/4 ⭐️
while this was a good interesting read, it definitely had me confused a lot which in turn made it hard for me to want to push through and see it to the end, but I'm glad I did! if you're feeling the same, then I definitely recommend seeing it out. there's a series before this that I didn't know about, but I probably would have had a better reading experience if I had read it first. & if you've already read the Protector Guild series, then you'll most definitely love this I'd say!
special thanks to Gray & The Nerd Fam for the physical copy/pr. 🖤🐦⬛
while this was a good interesting read, it definitely had me confused a lot which in turn made it hard for me to want to push through and see it to the end, but I'm glad I did! if you're feeling the same, then I definitely recommend seeing it out. there's a series before this that I didn't know about, but I probably would have had a better reading experience if I had read it first. & if you've already read the Protector Guild series, then you'll most definitely love this I'd say!
special thanks to Gray & The Nerd Fam for the physical copy/pr. 🖤🐦⬛
March 16, 2025
This book is everything! It's dark fantasy, horror, dark paranormal romance, and dystopian. It's well-written, major mental health rep, and more!
I was completely captivated, and this was literally jaw-dropping. The author brilliantly intertwined real life and the paranormal into a unique story with eerily relatable characters.
Great for a buddy read or book club because you are going to want to talk about it!
I was completely captivated, and this was literally jaw-dropping. The author brilliantly intertwined real life and the paranormal into a unique story with eerily relatable characters.
Great for a buddy read or book club because you are going to want to talk about it!
April 16, 2025
Absolutely 5 stars!!! Dystopian, Enemies to Lovers, Forbidden Romance and really slow burn...all magnificent qualities of this read!!! Could I love Menace anymore...why yes, you have to read it to know!
As for Mars and the other cast of characters, the end of the world as they knew it blew my mind! The past and present flip flop makes the book relatable and understandable. Twists and turns, ups and downs, this book will take you on a rollercoaster ride and leave you hanging and needing more!!!!
As for Mars and the other cast of characters, the end of the world as they knew it blew my mind! The past and present flip flop makes the book relatable and understandable. Twists and turns, ups and downs, this book will take you on a rollercoaster ride and leave you hanging and needing more!!!!
April 10, 2025
While it took me a while to get into the story, it was a fun and entertaining read that I enjoyed. I did wonder why certain things were in the book and it inly made sense literally in the last three pages or so. Even though it might feel long winded at times, it was still an entertaining read.
April 10, 2025
BEST BOOK EVER
July 26, 2025
3.5⭐️
1,5 🌶
Nice story, but a little bit long.
I get why it's so long, because in the end it merges together, but still.....
Will I read the second book? Yes!
1,5 🌶
Nice story, but a little bit long.
I get why it's so long, because in the end it merges together, but still.....
Will I read the second book? Yes!
January 14, 2026
Never in my life have I enjoyed a book so much without even understanding what’s going on 😂
April 24, 2025
DNF 41%
Confused and not in a good way. I had to keep going to the blurb thinking "What the hell am I reading"
One of my pet hates is a storyline going backwards and forwards. I detest it. I actually started completely skipping the before, irregardless of the timelines. I didn't care, just wanted the story to get on with it already. Chapters 1 to 4, because Meerina (heroine) was all ready all over the place mentally were hard to read. It really was a "What the heck is going on thing"
I understand we are supposed to "experience" her unfocused, focus on two worlds but with the rest of the story flow toss up, the writing style dropped the ball. To put it plainly, the world build leaves a lot to be desired.
The whole, 3 months before the undoing, 1 month after the undoing, 6 years before the undoing.... So forth and so on... Just no!! Did it encourage any immersion? A definite no.
Swiftly trying to move on... My throwing in the towel was due to Reapers suddenly becoming guardian angels, yeah couldn't swallow that one.
Confused and not in a good way. I had to keep going to the blurb thinking "What the hell am I reading"
One of my pet hates is a storyline going backwards and forwards. I detest it. I actually started completely skipping the before, irregardless of the timelines. I didn't care, just wanted the story to get on with it already. Chapters 1 to 4, because Meerina (heroine) was all ready all over the place mentally were hard to read. It really was a "What the heck is going on thing"
I understand we are supposed to "experience" her unfocused, focus on two worlds but with the rest of the story flow toss up, the writing style dropped the ball. To put it plainly, the world build leaves a lot to be desired.
The whole, 3 months before the undoing, 1 month after the undoing, 6 years before the undoing.... So forth and so on... Just no!! Did it encourage any immersion? A definite no.
Swiftly trying to move on... My throwing in the towel was due to Reapers suddenly becoming guardian angels, yeah couldn't swallow that one.
April 3, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice: 🌶️/5
Review: If this book isn't the next thing to go viral on booktok I'll be surprised. This was an amazing book that once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. Initially at the beginning of the book I was getting some Final Destination vibes, but it grew into so much more than that. I also really enjoyed getting to see the world through the FMCs eyes from the past to the present. It made me fall in love with one of the MMCs from her past and how he will play a part in the future. It also broke my heart and had me in tears as well so once you read this book you will understand. That cliffhanger is just criminal, and I need book 2 right this second!
Mars is such an amazing FMC despite feeling like she is cursed, and that death is stalking her. Afraid to get close to anyone other than her best friend in order to save them from dying. She is learning to navigate the new world they are all living in post apocalypse with her best friend Sora when she meets a mysterious man that saves her and then becomes her guardian angel to help her experience the things that bring her joy in life. All is good and well until her best friend doesn't come home one night, and Mars is determined to find her. Lies and betrayals come to light and omg the twists you don't see coming. Will Mars make it out alive or will death claim her?
Read this book if you love the supernatural, dystopian, found family, why choose (leading up to it), enemies to lovers, and the most delicious slow burn.
Thank you so much to the Nerd Fam & the author for allowing me to ARC for this fantastic book!!
Spice: 🌶️/5
Review: If this book isn't the next thing to go viral on booktok I'll be surprised. This was an amazing book that once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. Initially at the beginning of the book I was getting some Final Destination vibes, but it grew into so much more than that. I also really enjoyed getting to see the world through the FMCs eyes from the past to the present. It made me fall in love with one of the MMCs from her past and how he will play a part in the future. It also broke my heart and had me in tears as well so once you read this book you will understand. That cliffhanger is just criminal, and I need book 2 right this second!
Mars is such an amazing FMC despite feeling like she is cursed, and that death is stalking her. Afraid to get close to anyone other than her best friend in order to save them from dying. She is learning to navigate the new world they are all living in post apocalypse with her best friend Sora when she meets a mysterious man that saves her and then becomes her guardian angel to help her experience the things that bring her joy in life. All is good and well until her best friend doesn't come home one night, and Mars is determined to find her. Lies and betrayals come to light and omg the twists you don't see coming. Will Mars make it out alive or will death claim her?
Read this book if you love the supernatural, dystopian, found family, why choose (leading up to it), enemies to lovers, and the most delicious slow burn.
Thank you so much to the Nerd Fam & the author for allowing me to ARC for this fantastic book!!
April 4, 2025
~ arc review
so, i really enjoyed reading this book. the writing is pretty damn good and it easily grips your attention and it makes you wanna keep reading
mareena is a great fmc — she’s not a badass and doesn’t pretend to be one but she’s not a doormat either, a great inbetween i’d say…. she’s able to see what many can’t and doesn’t seem to think she’s different, just crazy, until the undoing happens
the mmcs are pretty swoon worthy and funny — we’re introduced to some of them but only two we get to see more of (for now)
a few things made me rate this a 4 star and not 5:
• i thought that it takes way too much time for the guys to be inserted into the story, i get that we get to see of her life and what changed since the undoing, but i just wished that this “stale” part was sped up a bit
• although we get glimpses and some explanations for what happened all those years ago on earth, i feel like it maybe needs more? it mentions demons as a whole group and not a species, so a vampire is a demon too? as a wolf is?
• i feel like mareena has too many inner ramblings at times which take away from the story… especially after the 40% mark where we get many more interactions between her and the guys, which imo should be more of the focus.
• her aunt’s name is said like a bunch of unnecessary times… i dont get why it shouldn’t be “my aunt”? honest question
overall this is a great first book and the last 20% is definitely angsty and intriguing, especially the cliffie which i loved haha 💓
ps: slow burn readers will devour this.
so, i really enjoyed reading this book. the writing is pretty damn good and it easily grips your attention and it makes you wanna keep reading
mareena is a great fmc — she’s not a badass and doesn’t pretend to be one but she’s not a doormat either, a great inbetween i’d say…. she’s able to see what many can’t and doesn’t seem to think she’s different, just crazy, until the undoing happens
the mmcs are pretty swoon worthy and funny — we’re introduced to some of them but only two we get to see more of (for now)
a few things made me rate this a 4 star and not 5:
• i thought that it takes way too much time for the guys to be inserted into the story, i get that we get to see of her life and what changed since the undoing, but i just wished that this “stale” part was sped up a bit
• although we get glimpses and some explanations for what happened all those years ago on earth, i feel like it maybe needs more? it mentions demons as a whole group and not a species, so a vampire is a demon too? as a wolf is?
• i feel like mareena has too many inner ramblings at times which take away from the story… especially after the 40% mark where we get many more interactions between her and the guys, which imo should be more of the focus.
• her aunt’s name is said like a bunch of unnecessary times… i dont get why it shouldn’t be “my aunt”? honest question
overall this is a great first book and the last 20% is definitely angsty and intriguing, especially the cliffie which i loved haha 💓
ps: slow burn readers will devour this.
April 22, 2025
First, Thank you Nerd Fam and Gray Holborn for the ARC copy! This review is my own opinion and unbiased :)
Veil of Death and Shadow is an action-packed start to the Order of Reapers series, blending post-apocalyptic vibes, slow-burn romance, and a badass FMC you can’t help but root for. Mareena’s life has been shaped by loss, and after the supernatural barrier collapses, she’s learned to keep people at a distance. But when two mysterious men—each from different timelines—begin to appear only to her, Mareena’s world is turned upside down, pulling her into a destiny she never wanted.
The romance is a slow burn with two very different love interests, each tied to a separate timeline. It’s not quite a why choose situation yet, but it’s clear book two will push that boundary further. On top of that, Mareena’s journey includes great mental health representation as she faces trauma and navigates an increasingly dangerous world. The timeline jumps add layers of intrigue and suspense, and the world-building is rich with danger and magic. I did have to slow down a couple of times to regain what part of the time-line I was in, but after awhile it flowed pretty seamlessly!
And let’s not forget my favorite side character: the zombie crow. He’s a non-pet menace and steals every scene he’s in.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, so get ready to want more. With enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and a tough, determined protagonist, this is a must-read for fans of post-apocalyptic urban fantasy. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
Veil of Death and Shadow is an action-packed start to the Order of Reapers series, blending post-apocalyptic vibes, slow-burn romance, and a badass FMC you can’t help but root for. Mareena’s life has been shaped by loss, and after the supernatural barrier collapses, she’s learned to keep people at a distance. But when two mysterious men—each from different timelines—begin to appear only to her, Mareena’s world is turned upside down, pulling her into a destiny she never wanted.
The romance is a slow burn with two very different love interests, each tied to a separate timeline. It’s not quite a why choose situation yet, but it’s clear book two will push that boundary further. On top of that, Mareena’s journey includes great mental health representation as she faces trauma and navigates an increasingly dangerous world. The timeline jumps add layers of intrigue and suspense, and the world-building is rich with danger and magic. I did have to slow down a couple of times to regain what part of the time-line I was in, but after awhile it flowed pretty seamlessly!
And let’s not forget my favorite side character: the zombie crow. He’s a non-pet menace and steals every scene he’s in.
The book ends on a cliffhanger, so get ready to want more. With enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and a tough, determined protagonist, this is a must-read for fans of post-apocalyptic urban fantasy. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
March 25, 2025
~Thank you to The Nerd Fam and Gray Holborn for the arc and the opportunity to read this work of art.
"Death began haunting my long before I even took my first breath."
This book had me in a chokehold. My physical copy is full of annotations and sticky notes as I tried to figure out who was who, or what in some cases, what was going to happen and how it was going to piece together in the end.
It really reminded me of a K-Drama; the way things were described, even the whole paranormal aspect reminded me of certain shows that I love. I don't want to spoil it by revealing too much about which shows ;)
The biggest thing I comment about in my reviews is the writing style and if I like it. I really did enjoy Gray's style. I think there is enough detail for you to piece things together but also moments where detail is shortened to give the reader their own imagination. This was kind of unique to me personally. If I could have one wish I would wish that people's race wasn't mentioned as a core in their description. Instead give detail about what they look like. This is probably really minor but it stood out to me.
What to expect and love:
• Menace 🐦⬛
• Why Choose (slow build)
• Apocalyptic Urban Fantasy
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forbidden Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Slow Burn
• Found Family
I'm desperate for book 2 though and I will be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
"Death began haunting my long before I even took my first breath."
This book had me in a chokehold. My physical copy is full of annotations and sticky notes as I tried to figure out who was who, or what in some cases, what was going to happen and how it was going to piece together in the end.
It really reminded me of a K-Drama; the way things were described, even the whole paranormal aspect reminded me of certain shows that I love. I don't want to spoil it by revealing too much about which shows ;)
The biggest thing I comment about in my reviews is the writing style and if I like it. I really did enjoy Gray's style. I think there is enough detail for you to piece things together but also moments where detail is shortened to give the reader their own imagination. This was kind of unique to me personally. If I could have one wish I would wish that people's race wasn't mentioned as a core in their description. Instead give detail about what they look like. This is probably really minor but it stood out to me.
What to expect and love:
• Menace 🐦⬛
• Why Choose (slow build)
• Apocalyptic Urban Fantasy
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forbidden Romance
• Forced Proximity
• Slow Burn
• Found Family
I'm desperate for book 2 though and I will be reading it as soon as I can get my hands on it.
March 28, 2025
I remember reading the final pages of the Protector Guild series, looking through their eyes while the whole world changed in front of them. At that time, I knew I wanted to read whatever came next, and I was really excited to start Mareena’s story. For those who haven’t read the Protector Guild yet; I believe this series is set well enough on its own. But it adds something to the experience of reading “Veil of Death and Shadow” to meet up with some of the characters from the Protector Guild again.
Mareena’s story switches between the time before the world-altering event, and years later. It’s done well, so the time-lapses never really bothered me on their own. The only downside to it, and it resulted in the decision to give this book four stars, is that it’s providing a lot of background to the characters that slows down the tempo of the story. I’m positive it will be a good thing in the future, with a solid character building of our fmc, but there were moments I had to push myself to continue reading. I’m happy I did, because the final chapters of this book were amazing and definitely made me excited to see what might be next. But it took a while to get there…
I’m happy I pushed through some of the slower chapters. Like I said, I loved the ending of this first book, but I was just as happy to see Levi again, Claude, and meet some of the new characters. I’m excited to see what’s next for Mareena; that final chapter opened a whole new box of posibilities I’m excited for!
Mareena’s story switches between the time before the world-altering event, and years later. It’s done well, so the time-lapses never really bothered me on their own. The only downside to it, and it resulted in the decision to give this book four stars, is that it’s providing a lot of background to the characters that slows down the tempo of the story. I’m positive it will be a good thing in the future, with a solid character building of our fmc, but there were moments I had to push myself to continue reading. I’m happy I did, because the final chapters of this book were amazing and definitely made me excited to see what might be next. But it took a while to get there…
I’m happy I pushed through some of the slower chapters. Like I said, I loved the ending of this first book, but I was just as happy to see Levi again, Claude, and meet some of the new characters. I’m excited to see what’s next for Mareena; that final chapter opened a whole new box of posibilities I’m excited for!
April 4, 2025
“𝙄 𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙖𝙛𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝. 𝙄𝙛 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙠.”
This book follows Mareena in both the past and present timelines of a post apocalyptic world that features demons, magic, and pure chaos. Death seems to follow Mareena everyone, and she’s always kept people, aside from her best friend Sora, from getting too close because of it.
The book is marketed as a why choose, and I believe it’s the first book in a series. It’s a bit of a slow start, and the back and forth of the past and present had me frustrated at points, but not necessarily in a bad way. I’d say it was more of an “Oh come on that was a cliffhanger, and I’m desperate to find out what happens next’ kind of way. I’ll be the first to complain about a cliffhanger, but I secretly love them sometimes and this was no different. It was that push to keep reading and I had trouble putting the book down at so many different points. I definitely found myself laughing out loud throughout the book and enjoyed the sense of humor that the characters maintained while living through such tragedies. The whole ‘diet friendship’ actually hd me choking on my morning coffee 😂😂. Oh and do t even get me started on one of the MMC’s reading to her as she fell asleep. SWOON 🥰.
I think that overall it’s a good start to the series, and I’m excited to see where it goes in the future books! I’m very interested to see where the world building in this series goes after reading book 1!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC.
This book follows Mareena in both the past and present timelines of a post apocalyptic world that features demons, magic, and pure chaos. Death seems to follow Mareena everyone, and she’s always kept people, aside from her best friend Sora, from getting too close because of it.
The book is marketed as a why choose, and I believe it’s the first book in a series. It’s a bit of a slow start, and the back and forth of the past and present had me frustrated at points, but not necessarily in a bad way. I’d say it was more of an “Oh come on that was a cliffhanger, and I’m desperate to find out what happens next’ kind of way. I’ll be the first to complain about a cliffhanger, but I secretly love them sometimes and this was no different. It was that push to keep reading and I had trouble putting the book down at so many different points. I definitely found myself laughing out loud throughout the book and enjoyed the sense of humor that the characters maintained while living through such tragedies. The whole ‘diet friendship’ actually hd me choking on my morning coffee 😂😂. Oh and do t even get me started on one of the MMC’s reading to her as she fell asleep. SWOON 🥰.
I think that overall it’s a good start to the series, and I’m excited to see where it goes in the future books! I’m very interested to see where the world building in this series goes after reading book 1!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC.
April 16, 2025
Veil of Death and Shadow really took me by surprise! I'm giving this 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫. I started reading it in the middle of a move and had to put it down for a lil bit because I couldn't fully focus and get into it. But once I was able to pick it back up? DAMN, did I fly through the last half of it!
The premise of this book is really cool. I loved the post apocalyptic vibes with paranormal. I really can't wait for more of the why choose to come into play in the next books. Though I can really see how the foundation was placed for it to happen! 🤌🏼💋
I love that we got to see so much of Mareena's life, her close friendship, and her trauma that has followed her essentially her whole life. The past timeline flashbacks at first had me a little confused because I couldn't see the relevance, but as the story went on it really clicked for me and I thoroughly enjoyed bouncing back and forth between before the Undoing and Present Day.
Kieran is such a cheeky bastard and I'm really looking forward to how he moves forward with the events that have unfolded in this story! And these other men we've met, but haven't necessarily formed a bond with Mareena quite yet, ugh I just can't wait to see what happens! That cliff hanger really has my mind spinning! I'll be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for this gifted eARC, all thoughts are my own and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. 💛
The premise of this book is really cool. I loved the post apocalyptic vibes with paranormal. I really can't wait for more of the why choose to come into play in the next books. Though I can really see how the foundation was placed for it to happen! 🤌🏼💋
I love that we got to see so much of Mareena's life, her close friendship, and her trauma that has followed her essentially her whole life. The past timeline flashbacks at first had me a little confused because I couldn't see the relevance, but as the story went on it really clicked for me and I thoroughly enjoyed bouncing back and forth between before the Undoing and Present Day.
Kieran is such a cheeky bastard and I'm really looking forward to how he moves forward with the events that have unfolded in this story! And these other men we've met, but haven't necessarily formed a bond with Mareena quite yet, ugh I just can't wait to see what happens! That cliff hanger really has my mind spinning! I'll be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam for this gifted eARC, all thoughts are my own and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. 💛
April 17, 2025
This was a solid read! This was my first time reading anything by this author, and I loved the writing. I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel – especially after that ending. Also, this book gets bonus points for nudging me out of a reading slump.
However, do not go into this expecting why-choose action in the first book. The beginning is very slow, and it takes a long time before all the guys get fully inserted into the story. I love me a slow-burn, so I don’t really mind!
That said, there were a few things that didn’t quite work for me:
* The timeline shifts were confusing and disrupted the story’s flow – bouncing from 9 years ago to the present, then to 3 years back… etc.
* There’s lots of filler and too much repetitive trauma dumping. Some of the scenes of them touring Seattle and at the lake could’ve been trimmed.
* I wanted more plot progression earlier on. We only get action 70% of the way through. This book felt more like an introduction/prequel with heavy world-building.
Still, there’s so much potential here. I loved the way grief and loss were handled – Mareena’s pain was palpable and so well-written. I truly adored her character. She made me cry more than once. The writing and characterisation were strong, and you manage to fall in love with all the characters.
With tighter pacing and some editing, this series has potential!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the ARC.
However, do not go into this expecting why-choose action in the first book. The beginning is very slow, and it takes a long time before all the guys get fully inserted into the story. I love me a slow-burn, so I don’t really mind!
That said, there were a few things that didn’t quite work for me:
* The timeline shifts were confusing and disrupted the story’s flow – bouncing from 9 years ago to the present, then to 3 years back… etc.
* There’s lots of filler and too much repetitive trauma dumping. Some of the scenes of them touring Seattle and at the lake could’ve been trimmed.
* I wanted more plot progression earlier on. We only get action 70% of the way through. This book felt more like an introduction/prequel with heavy world-building.
Still, there’s so much potential here. I loved the way grief and loss were handled – Mareena’s pain was palpable and so well-written. I truly adored her character. She made me cry more than once. The writing and characterisation were strong, and you manage to fall in love with all the characters.
With tighter pacing and some editing, this series has potential!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the ARC.
April 3, 2025
I liked the concept of the book. I thought this was going to be a fantasy, and this has epic paranormal fantasy vibes, but it's more paranormal romance, which actally I usually prefer. I've read quite a few of those where the veil between different worlds came down, and the story is set a few years or decades after, once everyone has adapted. This story slices Mars' life before, during, and after that moment in a cool way, similar to a zombie apocalypse story would.
I loved the community Mars' built around her even as sad and prickly as she tried to be
Her relationship with her adoptive sister/BFF was so sweet, and I love that it's a driving force for the story.
There are few twists, most of them we see coming a mile away, so I'm not sure if they're twists as much as something the reader knows but the character(s). But it was still enjoyable, though over all it didn't keep me as engaged as I would've liked.
I definitely want to read the next book, as I want to see where Mars goes on her journey, but if there's any more hints of a love triangle I will be dropping this series like a hot potatoe and wishing I could scrub it from my brain. But that's just me. EDIT: I've learned that the author is planning to go the Why Choose route instead. And in that case, all aboard!! All my anxiety about not being able to focus because I hate love triangle have dispersed, and I'm very much looking forward to the next installment.
Thank-you NerdFam for sending me this ARC! All opinions are my own.
I loved the community Mars' built around her even as sad and prickly as she tried to be
Her relationship with her adoptive sister/BFF was so sweet, and I love that it's a driving force for the story.
There are few twists, most of them we see coming a mile away, so I'm not sure if they're twists as much as something the reader knows but the character(s). But it was still enjoyable, though over all it didn't keep me as engaged as I would've liked.
I definitely want to read the next book, as I want to see where Mars goes on her journey, but if there's any more hints of a love triangle I will be dropping this series like a hot potatoe and wishing I could scrub it from my brain. But that's just me. EDIT: I've learned that the author is planning to go the Why Choose route instead. And in that case, all aboard!! All my anxiety about not being able to focus because I hate love triangle have dispersed, and I'm very much looking forward to the next installment.
Thank-you NerdFam for sending me this ARC! All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2025
4/5 Stars
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
What to expect in Veil of Death and Shadow (releases 4.10.2025)
- Paranormal/fantasy romance
- Dystopian
- Mystery/suspense
- Death as an MMC?
- Gifted FMC
- Multi-timeline
- Dual-POV
I found the plot of this book very unique and interesting. A girl touched by Death with a connection to the other world. Three years ago "The Undoing" occurred - an event that blended realities and the veil of life and death together. This story follows Mareena and is multi-timeline as she navigates this new world and reflects on the old one.
I'm rating this 4 stars due to the originality and interest I had while reading. I did find the book confusing with the multi-timelines and the long chapters made it difficult to stay engaged at times. The story dragged a bit until the last 20%, where the plot really took off. Expect a lot of plot twists and confusion by the end. I have a lot of questions and little to no answers. Because of this, I am curious to read a sequel. This book read more like a prequel to the main story, yet was almost 500 pages. I do think it could have ben condensed, or gotten to the point quicker. This book is also marketed as a why choose/reverse harem.... assuming that happens later in the series, don't expect that in book 1.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
What to expect in Veil of Death and Shadow (releases 4.10.2025)
- Paranormal/fantasy romance
- Dystopian
- Mystery/suspense
- Death as an MMC?
- Gifted FMC
- Multi-timeline
- Dual-POV
I found the plot of this book very unique and interesting. A girl touched by Death with a connection to the other world. Three years ago "The Undoing" occurred - an event that blended realities and the veil of life and death together. This story follows Mareena and is multi-timeline as she navigates this new world and reflects on the old one.
I'm rating this 4 stars due to the originality and interest I had while reading. I did find the book confusing with the multi-timelines and the long chapters made it difficult to stay engaged at times. The story dragged a bit until the last 20%, where the plot really took off. Expect a lot of plot twists and confusion by the end. I have a lot of questions and little to no answers. Because of this, I am curious to read a sequel. This book read more like a prequel to the main story, yet was almost 500 pages. I do think it could have ben condensed, or gotten to the point quicker. This book is also marketed as a why choose/reverse harem.... assuming that happens later in the series, don't expect that in book 1.
March 20, 2025
The idea of this book was amazing. It sounded like it was going to be a more fantasy-based version of Belladonna by Adalyn Grace, which sounded incredible to me. I think I set myself up for failure with this mindset.
This is a spicy, why choose fantasy that definitely falls closer to The Never List than Belladonna. Is death always lurking? Yes. Are there other forces at play? Yes. Is death itself a character? Maybe, maybe not.
This book is a fantasy set in a non-fantasy world, so if you aren't a fan of modern technology like phones in your fantasy, I would steer clear of this one. But if you like a fantasy with tech, read it!
This book is written in first person, following the POV of our female main character. The timeline jumps a lot. Sometimes, we are in what I think is present day, then sometimes we are a few years in the past, then sometimes we are like ten years in the past. It was a little hard for me to keep up. Also, the chapters in this book are a little on the long side, so keep that in mind.
Thank you so very much to The Nerd Fam and Gray Holborn for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and were not influenced by the manner in which I received it.
This is a spicy, why choose fantasy that definitely falls closer to The Never List than Belladonna. Is death always lurking? Yes. Are there other forces at play? Yes. Is death itself a character? Maybe, maybe not.
This book is a fantasy set in a non-fantasy world, so if you aren't a fan of modern technology like phones in your fantasy, I would steer clear of this one. But if you like a fantasy with tech, read it!
This book is written in first person, following the POV of our female main character. The timeline jumps a lot. Sometimes, we are in what I think is present day, then sometimes we are a few years in the past, then sometimes we are like ten years in the past. It was a little hard for me to keep up. Also, the chapters in this book are a little on the long side, so keep that in mind.
Thank you so very much to The Nerd Fam and Gray Holborn for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own and were not influenced by the manner in which I received it.
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