The Grim Reaper Lookbook

by Riya Aarini

I’m a snazzy grim reaper thrilled to express my personal tastes via clothing that’s fresh, comfy, and exclusive. It’s just that I’ve been forced to wear this dowdy outfit for seven centuries too long. The Black Plague that introduced my current look killed my savvy sense of style.

I aim to correct this egregious mistake by introducing several smart looks I’d like to wear in the near future—styles that show off my vivacious personality and enduring legitimacy. Honestly, who respects a phantasm dressed in a tattered, black robe?

In this sensational collection, I’ve assembled enviable looks—fashions even you may want to emulate—plus some modern-day tech to streamline the soul harvesting task. When death comes a-knocking, I’ll be there dressed up-to-the-minute.

Let’s just hope my stylist agrees. Until my appointment, take delight in the zany commentary that’ll leave you chuckling and the elements of style that give a grim reaper back his dignity.

112 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2025

About the author

Riya Aarini entered her small part of the world one summer day in the Pacific Northwest. She’s the creator of the What Was It Like series—engaging prompt journals that invite readers to join the fun of exploring their unique and collective histories. She also dabbles in an eclectic mix of genres, being drawn mostly to humor, paranormal comedy, and creative nonfiction.

Reviews

[Orion Monroe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: The Grim Reaper Lookbook by Riya Aarini

Riya Aarini’s The Grim Reaper Lookbook offers an engaging and refreshing take on the concept of fashion, blending humor, camp, and a touch of the macabre. In just 112 pages, the book invites readers to embark on a whimsical and somewhat unconventional journey through the world of fashion, seen through the eyes of the iconic Grim Reaper. The illustrations throughout are both well-executed and entertaining, bringing the quirky theme to life in a way that feels fresh and delightful.

The format itself is a fun one, as the book unfolds with comedic narratives paired with striking visuals. The first-person perspective adds an element of novelty and intimacy, allowing readers to connect with the Grim Reaper in a way that feels surprisingly personal. The witty commentary and playful tone create a lighthearted atmosphere that makes this an enjoyable day-read for those looking for something offbeat.

However, despite the book’s creativity and charm, there are moments of repetitiveness that can occasionally feel like a small hurdle. While this does not overshadow the overall uniqueness of the project, it does make certain sections feel less dynamic. Still, these moments are minor compared to the overall enjoyment The Grim Reaper Lookbook offers.

Ultimately, this book is a fun, innovative exploration of fashion through a highly original lens. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a mix of humor, camp, and art in their reading material, though it may not be for everyone. All in all, Aarini’s work stands out for its charm, and while it could have benefited from a bit more variety, it remains an enjoyable and creative journey.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jessica Zack · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book had a cute concept but was not meant to be a full length book. It would have made for a better magazine article. As it stands, each chapter is somehow so repetitive but also contradictory- it’s supposed to be a look book for presumably various occasions but Grim always speaks as though he’s changing his look permanently. So the countless outfit options would have to be worn all at once. At the very least I wish they had specified which occasion which look would be for.

This reads almost like a high school English class assignment - each chapter had the same theme but didn’t go with the one before it. Also the writing style was not very exciting or complex. If the author was a minor (or a class full of them) I’d be impressed but otherwise this work doesn’t really feel like it has a place being published - it has no plot and isn’t even a good execution of its own idea.

Finally, the use of AI images at all is not a good look, but not hiring an artist to render images for a literal look book is egregious and makes no sense, and adds to the overall unprofessionalism of this book. I would not recommend anyone waste their time on this one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sam Blevins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book came off as extremely odd and basically just the fashion choices of the grim reaper for how to update their aesthetic after so long.  Changes like wearing different wigs for meeting different people or even carrying a new hamster companion on their shoulder. 
The descriptions and choices were very comical and entertaining but the book came across as if it should be a graphic novel or more of a picture book. The artwork really adds something to the descriptions.  This would be more enjoyed in an actual book vs reading as an ebook (This is just my opinion)
Only read downside to this book is that "Select images created with the assistance of AI under the creative direction of the Author". I would have preferred actual artists be used for the rendering of the images. 

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Grim Reaper Look book by Riya Aarine. This is about the4th book that I have read staring the Grim Reaper. This character has a dry wit that leaves me laughing. But, I never knew that the Grim Reaper was such a fashion diva! He has been wearing the black reaper uniform for7 Centuries and he is just tired of wearing his dowdy cloths. This collection shows reaper is a cloths horse. Be prepared for a laugh out loud enjoyable reading. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an intriguing look into the life/job

of the Reaper. The Reaper's POV on his costume and job and mode of transport was entertaining. Who knew the Reaper's story would be a short much needed respite after all my the dark reads? A Reaper to lighten the mood. Lol. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Erica Callahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even the Grim Reaper needs a change sometimes. Who wouldn't get tired of wearing the same thing every day? From fuzzy slippers to haute couture, the sky is the limit. In this hilarious Lookbook, the Grim Reaper describes various styles that he would love to try. Great for a quick read to make you smile!

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a short, but very fun book. It made me laugh out loud a few times. I wish it had been longer. It`s illustrated so you can see the Reapers new looks. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy, but am freely leaving my honest review.

[Heather Stein · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Grim Reaper Lookbook is quirky, dark, and definitely different from anything I’ve read before. I loved the originality and the unexpected twists, though I did wish some parts had more depth and smoother pacing. Overall, it’s a fun, imaginative read if you’re in the mood for something unusual.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful collection exploring how the grim reaper wants to change how he looks to others. Brilliant read
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I loved it

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an entertaining glimpse into Reaper’s mind. It is fun to see how he imagines himself. He does have some valid points and some off the wall ideas. It was a fun book!

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! It was a short, easy read and a completely new concept to me. Very creative and fun.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.