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Alexiares
From New York Times bestselling author N.J. Walters comes the tale of Death’s second son…in this energetic, paranormal small-town romance that’s deadly irresistible!
Some find redemption. Others land in it.
One moment, Alexiares Blackwell was reaping yet another human soul and gunning through New York City on his Harley. The next, he’s dropped into the path of an oncoming car in the small town of Redemption.
It turns out his dear old dad—the Grim Reaper himself—has decided that Alex needs a crash course in humanity. Literally. Now he’s stuck in a nowhere town with nothing but his motorcycle and some serious parent issues.
But no one messes with Death. Not even his sons.
Stripped of his powers, Alex is trying to figure out what his father wants from him—all while attempting to resist his increasingly complicated attraction to inn owner Cilla Wainwright. Alex can’t risk anything that resembles feelings…not even when she surprises him with a kiss that unravels him in ways he still can’t figure out.
Because Alex has a job to do.
And it’s starting to look a lot like the next soul he’s supposed to reap…is hers.
Each book in the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series is
* Samael
* Alexiares
Some find redemption. Others land in it.
One moment, Alexiares Blackwell was reaping yet another human soul and gunning through New York City on his Harley. The next, he’s dropped into the path of an oncoming car in the small town of Redemption.
It turns out his dear old dad—the Grim Reaper himself—has decided that Alex needs a crash course in humanity. Literally. Now he’s stuck in a nowhere town with nothing but his motorcycle and some serious parent issues.
But no one messes with Death. Not even his sons.
Stripped of his powers, Alex is trying to figure out what his father wants from him—all while attempting to resist his increasingly complicated attraction to inn owner Cilla Wainwright. Alex can’t risk anything that resembles feelings…not even when she surprises him with a kiss that unravels him in ways he still can’t figure out.
Because Alex has a job to do.
And it’s starting to look a lot like the next soul he’s supposed to reap…is hers.
Each book in the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series is
* Samael
* Alexiares
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2025
21 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
N.J. Walters
168 books1,275 followersOnce upon a time N.J. had the idea that she would like to quit her job at the bookstore, sell everything she owned, leave her hometown, and write romance novels in a place where no one knew her. And she did. Two years later, she went back to the bookstore and her hometown and settled in for another seven years.
One day she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first erotic romance novel and life would never be the same.
N.J. Walters is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who has always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks—all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.
One day she gave notice at her job on a Friday morning. On Sunday afternoon, she received a tentative acceptance for her first erotic romance novel and life would never be the same.
N.J. Walters is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who has always been a voracious reader, and now she spends her days writing novels of her own. Vampires, werewolves, dragons, time-travelers, seductive handymen, and next-door neighbors with smoldering good looks—all vie for her attention. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
November 15, 2025
2.5 🌟
Paranormal Romance | Small-town | Forced Proximity | Forbidden Love | Mystery | Reaper | High-stakes Assignment
It is part of a trilogy, but it can be read as a standalone.
There seems to be a lot of unnecessary repetition. Example: who's at fault — not his fault, not her fault, no one at fault, my fault, your fault... lot of repressed guilt going on, apparently.
The writing style was not for me, and I was not enjoying the characters and the way the story was progressing. DNF 25%
eARC courtesy of Entangled Insiders/Entangled Publishing | NetGalley
Paranormal Romance | Small-town | Forced Proximity | Forbidden Love | Mystery | Reaper | High-stakes Assignment
It is part of a trilogy, but it can be read as a standalone.
There seems to be a lot of unnecessary repetition. Example: who's at fault — not his fault, not her fault, no one at fault, my fault, your fault... lot of repressed guilt going on, apparently.
The writing style was not for me, and I was not enjoying the characters and the way the story was progressing. DNF 25%
eARC courtesy of Entangled Insiders/Entangled Publishing | NetGalley
November 2, 2025
Alexiares Blackwell isn’t exactly what you’d call your typical middle child. You see, his father is the Grim Reaper, and Alex and his three brothers are among the most elite Reapers. When Alex is given one of his most difficult assignments yet, he finds himself torn between love and duty.
Stripped of his powers and stranded in the small town of Redemption, with no money and no way out, Alex crosses paths with Cilla, the local bed and breakfast owner. There is an instant spark between them, but Alex fears the worst when he begins to suspect why his father sent him there. Cilla, meanwhile, faces her own struggles: fighting her attraction to this mysterious stranger who literally fell into her life, holding onto her independence, and confronting her fear of vulnerability after a painful past.
Despite these differences, Cilla lets Alex stay at her inn and their connection only blossoms from there. With a forbidden romance, forced proximity, and polar-opposite personalities, their chemistry is undeniable. But Alex can’t avoid the truth that looms over him—his job is to reap Cilla. Can love defy the odds, even when it comes to Death itself?
N.J. Walters delivers a captivating paranormal romance in Alexiares, the second book of the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series. The best part? Each book can be read as a standalone, and after finishing Alex’s story, I can’t wait to go back and read the first, Samael, about his big brother. Walters delivers a tender, yet thrilling romance story elevated by dark and twisted paranormal elements, heat, and mystery. Alexiares is a beautiful love story of vulnerability, self-discovery, and emotional intimacy, making it an irresistible page-turner.
Minor note: I would have loved a slightly deeper glimpse into Alex’s life as a Reaper before Redemption, purely out of curiosity, but it wasn’t necessary for the story itself.
Special note: Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC (Entangled: Amara) & NetGalley for providing me with early access to this book. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4.5 (rounded up to 5)
Stripped of his powers and stranded in the small town of Redemption, with no money and no way out, Alex crosses paths with Cilla, the local bed and breakfast owner. There is an instant spark between them, but Alex fears the worst when he begins to suspect why his father sent him there. Cilla, meanwhile, faces her own struggles: fighting her attraction to this mysterious stranger who literally fell into her life, holding onto her independence, and confronting her fear of vulnerability after a painful past.
Despite these differences, Cilla lets Alex stay at her inn and their connection only blossoms from there. With a forbidden romance, forced proximity, and polar-opposite personalities, their chemistry is undeniable. But Alex can’t avoid the truth that looms over him—his job is to reap Cilla. Can love defy the odds, even when it comes to Death itself?
N.J. Walters delivers a captivating paranormal romance in Alexiares, the second book of the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series. The best part? Each book can be read as a standalone, and after finishing Alex’s story, I can’t wait to go back and read the first, Samael, about his big brother. Walters delivers a tender, yet thrilling romance story elevated by dark and twisted paranormal elements, heat, and mystery. Alexiares is a beautiful love story of vulnerability, self-discovery, and emotional intimacy, making it an irresistible page-turner.
Minor note: I would have loved a slightly deeper glimpse into Alex’s life as a Reaper before Redemption, purely out of curiosity, but it wasn’t necessary for the story itself.
Special note: Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC (Entangled: Amara) & NetGalley for providing me with early access to this book. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 4.5 (rounded up to 5)
November 5, 2025
I won this from the publisher and I enjoyed it. I did not read the first book in the series, but each brother has their own story so it is not necessary. Alexiares is the middle son of Death. He reaps souls. Alex is sent by his father to a small town and he isn't sure at first whose soul he is supposed to reap. He starts falling for Cilla who owns a bed and breakfast. He quickly learns she is the soul and she will be dying soon. He is not allowed to interfere in her death. She is falling for him and he knows he should stop it all but he can't make himself. She has a lot of drama going on with her brother and ex-husband so Alex is trying to protect her from all of that. Then Alex finds out his older brother is also in town. Why is he there? It is a quick love but I enjoyed the characters and Alex being tormented of loving her but knowing she would die soon and not being able to tell her. I will probably go back and read the first book about Samael.
-Damn, he hated being unsure of himself. He was out of his depth with her.
-"Parents are supposed to want the best for their children, not force them to live up to some unrealistic idea of what they think their offspring should be."
-Damn, he hated being unsure of himself. He was out of his depth with her.
-"Parents are supposed to want the best for their children, not force them to live up to some unrealistic idea of what they think their offspring should be."
November 26, 2025
Alexiares is a reaper and Death's middle son. He is given the same task by his father that his older brother Samael was given to complete. This time, in order to avoid being sent to the Shadowlands for eternity, Alex ends up in the same small town of Redemption by his father to learn a lesson in humanity. His assignment is to wait until death comes to a woman named Cilla Wainwright, who owns the local B&B that her brother and ex-husband are trying to maliciously take from her and escort her into the afterlife. When Alex literally crashes into her, the only place to stay is with Cilla while he waits for his bike to be fixed, and her death to come, so he can complete his assignment and go back to his comfortable existence. But Alex didn't anticipate falling for Cilla, and he must try to curb his emotions so as to not interfere with her death.
This was similar to the first book in that it was a fast romance read with forced proximity trope, instant love, and some spicy scenes. It kept me entertained throughout, and the characters were very likable. There is an air of constant danger for Cilla, which makes Alex's unexpected protective nature come out, and ends where book three can be picked up as this is part of a trilogy. I really liked this story and would recommend it for a quick romance read.
This was similar to the first book in that it was a fast romance read with forced proximity trope, instant love, and some spicy scenes. It kept me entertained throughout, and the characters were very likable. There is an air of constant danger for Cilla, which makes Alex's unexpected protective nature come out, and ends where book three can be picked up as this is part of a trilogy. I really liked this story and would recommend it for a quick romance read.
November 12, 2025
In N.J. Walters' Samael, which is Book 1 in the Brothers Redemption Series, Samael mentions his brother, Alexiares, and Book 2 is his story.
Like Samael, Alexiares is one of the sons of Death, the Grim Reaper. And Alexiares happens to live in the next town over from Samael. His father thinks Alexiares needs to be taught a lesson on how to do his job right and takes away his powers, leaving Alexiares with just his motorcycle. And like Book 1, I like that this story is more contemporary, with paranormal undertones.
The story starts at a reasonably fast pace, likely because of how Book 1 ended. The romance with Cillia turns out to be more than a challenge for Alexiares, as she is his assignment. There’s some steamy spice. Overall, I enjoyed Alexiares and found it entertaining.
Thank you, Entangled Publishing, and Author N.J. Walters, for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Like Samael, Alexiares is one of the sons of Death, the Grim Reaper. And Alexiares happens to live in the next town over from Samael. His father thinks Alexiares needs to be taught a lesson on how to do his job right and takes away his powers, leaving Alexiares with just his motorcycle. And like Book 1, I like that this story is more contemporary, with paranormal undertones.
The story starts at a reasonably fast pace, likely because of how Book 1 ended. The romance with Cillia turns out to be more than a challenge for Alexiares, as she is his assignment. There’s some steamy spice. Overall, I enjoyed Alexiares and found it entertaining.
Thank you, Entangled Publishing, and Author N.J. Walters, for the gifted e-copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2025
Alexiares getting stranded in the small town of Redemption with no powers made for such an entertaining setup. He’s supposed to be an elite Reaper, but instead he ends up colliding, literally with Cilla, the inn owner who brings warmth and steadiness into his life. Their connection sparks fast, even as Alex realizes the next soul he’s been ordered to reap is hers.
I really liked the mix of broody tension, gentle moments, and that forbidden-romance pull that keeps tightening as the danger ramps up. It’s a quick, engaging paranormal romance with a touch of suspense and a lot of heart. Thanks to Entangled publishing for the gifted ARC.
I really liked the mix of broody tension, gentle moments, and that forbidden-romance pull that keeps tightening as the danger ramps up. It’s a quick, engaging paranormal romance with a touch of suspense and a lot of heart. Thanks to Entangled publishing for the gifted ARC.
November 9, 2025
3.5⭐️
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Alexiares Blackwell is a reaper, and not just any reaper. His dad is literally Death. Wanting his sons to embrace the reaper identity as deeply as he did, Death is disappointed to see Alexiares not caring for his work. And so he sends him on a mission. One moment Alexiares is cruising down the road, the next he’s transported to a small town with no powers, no money, no transportation and no clue as to why he’s there at all. When his attraction to the local innkeeper, Cilla, threatens the job he was sent to do, Alexiares has to figure out what this job truly means to him and what he’s willing to sacrifice.
This was my first N.J Walters and maybe reading the second book in this series without having read the first affected my rating but overall this was an okay read.
The paranormal reaper aspect was different and there was enough action to keep my attention but I struggled with our characters. There was a lot of back and forth flip flopping feelings that had me wanting to shake some sense into Alex and Cilla. I get coming to terms with being attracted to someone who might not be sticking around and not wanting to risk the mission but yikes, the almost miscommunication between these two was hard to get through.
In the end, I think I was able to feel the connection between the two of them, with Alex doing anything to keep Cilla safe. I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed, seemed like everything was resolved quickly which perhaps is the pattern when your dad is Death and can control everything but that was definitely one of the less believable parts.
Either way, if you want a quick paranormal romance to change things up, give this one a shot!
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Alexiares Blackwell is a reaper, and not just any reaper. His dad is literally Death. Wanting his sons to embrace the reaper identity as deeply as he did, Death is disappointed to see Alexiares not caring for his work. And so he sends him on a mission. One moment Alexiares is cruising down the road, the next he’s transported to a small town with no powers, no money, no transportation and no clue as to why he’s there at all. When his attraction to the local innkeeper, Cilla, threatens the job he was sent to do, Alexiares has to figure out what this job truly means to him and what he’s willing to sacrifice.
This was my first N.J Walters and maybe reading the second book in this series without having read the first affected my rating but overall this was an okay read.
The paranormal reaper aspect was different and there was enough action to keep my attention but I struggled with our characters. There was a lot of back and forth flip flopping feelings that had me wanting to shake some sense into Alex and Cilla. I get coming to terms with being attracted to someone who might not be sticking around and not wanting to risk the mission but yikes, the almost miscommunication between these two was hard to get through.
In the end, I think I was able to feel the connection between the two of them, with Alex doing anything to keep Cilla safe. I do feel like the ending was a bit rushed, seemed like everything was resolved quickly which perhaps is the pattern when your dad is Death and can control everything but that was definitely one of the less believable parts.
Either way, if you want a quick paranormal romance to change things up, give this one a shot!
November 13, 2025
Alexiares ARC Review
4.25⭐️
2.75🌶️
I love a story where a supernatural has to learn the value of everyday life! I know that’s very specific but I bring it up because this book for that niche spot so well!!
I immediately fell in love with Alex and his grumpy biker vibe. The beginning of his story gave me all I needed to know in that moment. I prefer to slowly learn about a character than to just get lore dumped on me immediately and I think the book do well in slowly revealing his development and traits.
Cilla was just adorable right from the beginning. I could relate with her intense need to take care of everything and everyone. She was just such a strong character while still being vulnerable enough to breakthrough the rough shell Alex had. Her connection to the antagonists was perfection and I really enjoyed having a villain to hate all the way through.
The only one getting any Redemption (hehe) is Alex!
The story itself felt well paced and I although Alex dragged his feet with telling Cilla the truth, I did enjoy how everything came together in the end for them. I had mixed feelings about Alex’s father but I’m interested to see if that’s will be explored in the next book, which I full intend to read!
This love story was simply magical and it tackles the idea of death and immortality in a very thoughtful way. The couple had perfect chemistry and I definitely need to go back and read Alex’s older brother’s story before the third book comes out!
4.25⭐️
2.75🌶️
I love a story where a supernatural has to learn the value of everyday life! I know that’s very specific but I bring it up because this book for that niche spot so well!!
I immediately fell in love with Alex and his grumpy biker vibe. The beginning of his story gave me all I needed to know in that moment. I prefer to slowly learn about a character than to just get lore dumped on me immediately and I think the book do well in slowly revealing his development and traits.
Cilla was just adorable right from the beginning. I could relate with her intense need to take care of everything and everyone. She was just such a strong character while still being vulnerable enough to breakthrough the rough shell Alex had. Her connection to the antagonists was perfection and I really enjoyed having a villain to hate all the way through.
The only one getting any Redemption (hehe) is Alex!
The story itself felt well paced and I although Alex dragged his feet with telling Cilla the truth, I did enjoy how everything came together in the end for them. I had mixed feelings about Alex’s father but I’m interested to see if that’s will be explored in the next book, which I full intend to read!
This love story was simply magical and it tackles the idea of death and immortality in a very thoughtful way. The couple had perfect chemistry and I definitely need to go back and read Alex’s older brother’s story before the third book comes out!
November 3, 2025
Got this book as a part of a giveaway from the publisher and wasn’t sure what to expect but wasn’t mad either. It was actually relatively entertaining for someone who had no idea what she was about to read, so definitely worth reading once for anyone interested!
November 6, 2025
Alexiares🔚
Alexiares is the son of Death and finds himself stranded in the town of Redemption. He’s been given a new mission and failure could have catastrophic consequences😳
Cilla is the owner of Ivy House, a local BnB (Bed and Breakfast). She inherited the house from her grandmother and has slowly since her divorce been doing maintenance and upkeep. Unfortunately, it appears someone has it out for her and Ivy House and now with Alex and her attraction to him, she’s trying to keep him at arms length but he keeps turning up when she needs him.
A great story that I really loved. Can’t wait for the next brother🙌 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest review❤️
Alexiares is the son of Death and finds himself stranded in the town of Redemption. He’s been given a new mission and failure could have catastrophic consequences😳
Cilla is the owner of Ivy House, a local BnB (Bed and Breakfast). She inherited the house from her grandmother and has slowly since her divorce been doing maintenance and upkeep. Unfortunately, it appears someone has it out for her and Ivy House and now with Alex and her attraction to him, she’s trying to keep him at arms length but he keeps turning up when she needs him.
A great story that I really loved. Can’t wait for the next brother🙌 I received an advanced copy via Netgalley and willingly leave my honest review❤️
November 10, 2025
In Alexiares by N.J. Walters, the second son of the Grim Reaper is stripped of his powers and sent to the small town of Redemption where he falls for the very woman whose soul he is meant to reap. He is torn between his duty and developing feelings. This premise is paranormal gold and the story has great bones. Grumpy reaper MMC x sunshine FMC innkeeper? Check. Forced Proximity? Check. Forbidden love? Check. Found family? Check. Family drama? Check. Mystery and suspense? Check. Small town? Check. This story was filled with potential, but the execution felt lackluster.
The star of this novel is, without a doubt, Alexiares Blackwell. The author does an excellent job portraying his emptiness, restlessness and detachment despite being devoted to his work and having a variety of hobbies. He grapples with destiny versus free will, the human condition as he’s stripped of his powers and resources, trust and secrets. His journey is less about the actual assignment and more about learning the right lessons. On the other hand, Cilla Wainwright was an uninspiring and stubborn FMC whose main purpose was to be Alex’s assignment and to teach him about life, love and true happiness. Cilla’s stubbornness was often credited to her as strength, but I did not agree. I liked the idea of Cilla and Alex together. A forbidden relationship between an immortal and a human is a paranormal romance lovers’ catnip. The relationship between them developed at a breakneck pace though and they went from strangers to lovers in mere days. The author told us Alex and Cilla had “fierce chemistry,” but I never truly felt it and there was no real emotional connection either. Besides that, they were both hot and cold with each other as they kept having the same conversations about their conflicting desires. Alex’s position and the “forbidden” conflict that he faced made sense, but Cilla just seemed wishy washy and immature. In the end they just blew right past the forbidden aspect making it more of an inconvenience than a true obstacle. Their intimate moments were overshadowed by cringe worthy writing and descriptions like “liquid longing,” “plumped the mounds,” and “springy hair” to list a few. Some of these laughable descriptions pulled me right out of the story.
The writing style is arguably the novel's most significant drawback. Throughout the book, the author relies on the same descriptive phrases, similes, and sentence structures. As one example, Alex’s "jaw flexed” or something similar repeatedly. The narrative is also weighed down by excessive repetition and circling back to the same points over and over. The writing is further plagued both by heavy internal monologues and by the main characters talking out loud to themselves. The prose tends to rely on telling rather than showing also. Further, the side characters are underdeveloped. Rosa, Cal, Chief Johnson and the townspeople are mostly just props to provide “found family” vibes. The Blackwells mostly add a layer of family drama without any real substance. Richard and Christopher fuel the light suspense which includes harassment, threats, property damage and business sabotage. The resolution to said mystery and suspense left me feeling underwhelmed.
The small-town setting of Redemption is a nice touch. While it is the literal backdrop for the story, it is also symbolic for Alex’s true mission and personal growth. As a North Carolinian, I adore that this fictional little town is situated in my home state. It helped me imagine what Ivy House and the grounds might look like along with the rest of the town. I could almost smell the air.
Overall, this story has a compelling hook and a solid foundation but with the repetitive and circular writing, underdeveloped characters, and a plot that was thin in places, I was left wanting more. Despite my disappointment with parts of this story, I appreciate the author’s effort to tackle complex themes. It shows the power of empathy, love and sacrifice to change us. It demonstrates the fragility of life, that time is a precious gift, and that love is worth the risk. This does have a happy ending, but it didn’t quite leave me feeling satisfied. It seemed like Alex’s winning was still losing in some ways. While the execution fell short for me, it might not for you. Readers looking for a paranormal romance with a grim reaper aesthetic may find this to be just the right choice.
The star of this novel is, without a doubt, Alexiares Blackwell. The author does an excellent job portraying his emptiness, restlessness and detachment despite being devoted to his work and having a variety of hobbies. He grapples with destiny versus free will, the human condition as he’s stripped of his powers and resources, trust and secrets. His journey is less about the actual assignment and more about learning the right lessons. On the other hand, Cilla Wainwright was an uninspiring and stubborn FMC whose main purpose was to be Alex’s assignment and to teach him about life, love and true happiness. Cilla’s stubbornness was often credited to her as strength, but I did not agree. I liked the idea of Cilla and Alex together. A forbidden relationship between an immortal and a human is a paranormal romance lovers’ catnip. The relationship between them developed at a breakneck pace though and they went from strangers to lovers in mere days. The author told us Alex and Cilla had “fierce chemistry,” but I never truly felt it and there was no real emotional connection either. Besides that, they were both hot and cold with each other as they kept having the same conversations about their conflicting desires. Alex’s position and the “forbidden” conflict that he faced made sense, but Cilla just seemed wishy washy and immature. In the end they just blew right past the forbidden aspect making it more of an inconvenience than a true obstacle. Their intimate moments were overshadowed by cringe worthy writing and descriptions like “liquid longing,” “plumped the mounds,” and “springy hair” to list a few. Some of these laughable descriptions pulled me right out of the story.
The writing style is arguably the novel's most significant drawback. Throughout the book, the author relies on the same descriptive phrases, similes, and sentence structures. As one example, Alex’s "jaw flexed” or something similar repeatedly. The narrative is also weighed down by excessive repetition and circling back to the same points over and over. The writing is further plagued both by heavy internal monologues and by the main characters talking out loud to themselves. The prose tends to rely on telling rather than showing also. Further, the side characters are underdeveloped. Rosa, Cal, Chief Johnson and the townspeople are mostly just props to provide “found family” vibes. The Blackwells mostly add a layer of family drama without any real substance. Richard and Christopher fuel the light suspense which includes harassment, threats, property damage and business sabotage. The resolution to said mystery and suspense left me feeling underwhelmed.
The small-town setting of Redemption is a nice touch. While it is the literal backdrop for the story, it is also symbolic for Alex’s true mission and personal growth. As a North Carolinian, I adore that this fictional little town is situated in my home state. It helped me imagine what Ivy House and the grounds might look like along with the rest of the town. I could almost smell the air.
Overall, this story has a compelling hook and a solid foundation but with the repetitive and circular writing, underdeveloped characters, and a plot that was thin in places, I was left wanting more. Despite my disappointment with parts of this story, I appreciate the author’s effort to tackle complex themes. It shows the power of empathy, love and sacrifice to change us. It demonstrates the fragility of life, that time is a precious gift, and that love is worth the risk. This does have a happy ending, but it didn’t quite leave me feeling satisfied. It seemed like Alex’s winning was still losing in some ways. While the execution fell short for me, it might not for you. Readers looking for a paranormal romance with a grim reaper aesthetic may find this to be just the right choice.
November 11, 2025
Book review: N.J. Walters’ Alexiares
Published by Entangled Publishing — thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
If Death had a second son with rage issues, a leather jacket, and the emotional availability of a brick wall, it’d be Alexiares Blackwell. Lucky for us, that’s exactly what Alexiares delivers—a motorcycle-riding, soul-reaping immortal dropped straight into a small-town redemption arc he absolutely did not sign up for.
One second he’s tearing through New York on a Harley, grim reaper-ing like a pro. The next? Boom. Human. Hit by a car. Dumped in a place actually named Redemption, because subtlety is not part of the Grim Reaper’s parenting style. Thanks, Dad.
Alex’s powers are gone, his temper is unchecked, and his only assignment—besides “learn how to be human or else”—is not to fall for the charming, cinnamon-scented innkeeper Cilla Wainwright. Naturally, she kisses him, he short-circuits, and we all lose our minds a little.
“You kissed me,” he growled.
“And you’re still standing. You’ll survive.”
Sir, will you survive? Because I sure didn’t.
This book is broody and flirty and chaotic in all the best ways. The chemistry between Alex and Cilla simmers under every glance and burns through every page. Add in small-town gossip, motorcycle pining, and soul-reaping angst, and I was hooked like a ghost at a séance.
Also: can we talk about the audacity of making Death’s son the grump in a grumpy/sunshine pairing? Alex is furious, fanged, and deeply confused by feelings. Cilla? She bakes, she runs an inn, and she does not care that he’s technically a soul collector with abandonment issues. I adore her.
This second installment in the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series stands perfectly on its own but builds on the strange, sexy mythology in a way that makes you want to devour the whole series.
Five stars for fated kisses, found humanity, and falling in love with a reaper who doesn’t know what to do with a coffee mug, let alone a relationship.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Alexiares #NJWalters #BlackwellBrothersRedemption #GrimReaperRomance #SmallTownFantasy #ParanormalRomanceBooks #DeathIsTheNewTallDarkAndHandsome #BookReview #NetGalley #RomanceWithBite #ReaperWithFeelings #EntangledAmara #FantasyRomance #BookstagramRecs
Published by Entangled Publishing — thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
If Death had a second son with rage issues, a leather jacket, and the emotional availability of a brick wall, it’d be Alexiares Blackwell. Lucky for us, that’s exactly what Alexiares delivers—a motorcycle-riding, soul-reaping immortal dropped straight into a small-town redemption arc he absolutely did not sign up for.
One second he’s tearing through New York on a Harley, grim reaper-ing like a pro. The next? Boom. Human. Hit by a car. Dumped in a place actually named Redemption, because subtlety is not part of the Grim Reaper’s parenting style. Thanks, Dad.
Alex’s powers are gone, his temper is unchecked, and his only assignment—besides “learn how to be human or else”—is not to fall for the charming, cinnamon-scented innkeeper Cilla Wainwright. Naturally, she kisses him, he short-circuits, and we all lose our minds a little.
“You kissed me,” he growled.
“And you’re still standing. You’ll survive.”
Sir, will you survive? Because I sure didn’t.
This book is broody and flirty and chaotic in all the best ways. The chemistry between Alex and Cilla simmers under every glance and burns through every page. Add in small-town gossip, motorcycle pining, and soul-reaping angst, and I was hooked like a ghost at a séance.
Also: can we talk about the audacity of making Death’s son the grump in a grumpy/sunshine pairing? Alex is furious, fanged, and deeply confused by feelings. Cilla? She bakes, she runs an inn, and she does not care that he’s technically a soul collector with abandonment issues. I adore her.
This second installment in the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series stands perfectly on its own but builds on the strange, sexy mythology in a way that makes you want to devour the whole series.
Five stars for fated kisses, found humanity, and falling in love with a reaper who doesn’t know what to do with a coffee mug, let alone a relationship.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Alexiares #NJWalters #BlackwellBrothersRedemption #GrimReaperRomance #SmallTownFantasy #ParanormalRomanceBooks #DeathIsTheNewTallDarkAndHandsome #BookReview #NetGalley #RomanceWithBite #ReaperWithFeelings #EntangledAmara #FantasyRomance #BookstagramRecs
November 9, 2025
NJ Walters proves Death has a heart! The Grim Reaper, feared by even the gods and the Fates, has three sons who have been model reapers for a millennium, but now he fears they are beginning to lose their focus. He devises a challenge for his second son, Alexiares: properly reap a designated soul or he will be sent to the Shadowlands forever, never to reap again. Alex is then transported to small town Redemption where he barely avoids crashing his motorcycle into an oncoming car. He soon discovers his immortality, his powers, his wealth, even his phone are gone. He has $1000 in his wallet, no clothes except those on his back, no place to stay, and no clue who his targeted soul is. And the search for his redemption begins--but where will it lead?
Throughout the book Alexiares reflects on his life and family, alternating between hating the closed off, uncaring reaper he has become but unwilling to consider any other life. Watching Alex struggle with the secrets he must keep and the emotions he is beginning to experience is a treat to the reader while agony for him. Alex is ruggedly handsome, not afraid to work and get his hands dirty, but also caring and a good listener who allows Cilla to be herself without judging. Cilla, the divorced, BNB owner is opening his eyes and heart to possibilities he may want but can't accept due to many complications.
I loved Cilla as a strong, independent FMC. After realizing how she was controlled and manipulated in her marriage, she vowed to never let that happen again. She never shrunk away from the many obstacles and threats she encountered throughout the novel; she didn't run to Alex and let him protect and solve everything for her. Alex himself was torn between helping Cilla and fulfilling his challenge (which forbids getting involved in humans' lives). The romantic push and pull between Alex and Cilla was at times frustrating but then sizzling hot!
Will Alexiares fulfill his challenge to regain his immortality, wealth, and power? And if so, what will it cost him?
Throughout the book Alexiares reflects on his life and family, alternating between hating the closed off, uncaring reaper he has become but unwilling to consider any other life. Watching Alex struggle with the secrets he must keep and the emotions he is beginning to experience is a treat to the reader while agony for him. Alex is ruggedly handsome, not afraid to work and get his hands dirty, but also caring and a good listener who allows Cilla to be herself without judging. Cilla, the divorced, BNB owner is opening his eyes and heart to possibilities he may want but can't accept due to many complications.
I loved Cilla as a strong, independent FMC. After realizing how she was controlled and manipulated in her marriage, she vowed to never let that happen again. She never shrunk away from the many obstacles and threats she encountered throughout the novel; she didn't run to Alex and let him protect and solve everything for her. Alex himself was torn between helping Cilla and fulfilling his challenge (which forbids getting involved in humans' lives). The romantic push and pull between Alex and Cilla was at times frustrating but then sizzling hot!
Will Alexiares fulfill his challenge to regain his immortality, wealth, and power? And if so, what will it cost him?
November 8, 2025
When Death himself takes a hand in fixing his son's love life!
Alexiares loves motorbikes, fast cars and his multitude of fancy homes. Reaping soles has been his entire existence but even being an immortal can grate. Alex can feel himself caring less about those he reaps and just being perfunctory and efficient. Death sees this and hatches a plan to instill love and energy back into the lives of his 3 sons. All through a little town named Redemption!
Alex and Cilla have a bit of a fraught first meeting and finding himself stripped of his powers, he soon finds a need to a place to stay and Cilla steps in. Cilla has some problems of her own; her inn needs some TLC, her ex-husband is acting like a complete d*ck and her brother is money mad and determined to get everything!
Cilla may not be feisty in general but when things get tough, this woman has backbone for miles! She hasn't lost her passion for things, she's just choosy about what (and who) she allows into her life now. Her friendship with Rosa and Cal is heart warming and the love she had for her tough but strict grandmother is undeniable. She may think she's nothing special but she brings comfort and hospitality to her guests.
Alex is rough and tough and used to being able to do as he wants. Now he's stuck within Redemption, making himself useful as a handyman and making himself indispensable to Cilla. Oh, and goes completely unhinged when he realises someone put hands on Cilla!
The passion between these two is amazing and the chemistry sizzles from the off. They may be opposites but at their core they are match - they both will do anything for those they love. I would have liked to have seen more of Alex's life prior to Redemption, to see that hardening of his shell but that's m only gripe.
A worthy read and I'm hoping that Kieran's story isn't far away!
Alexiares loves motorbikes, fast cars and his multitude of fancy homes. Reaping soles has been his entire existence but even being an immortal can grate. Alex can feel himself caring less about those he reaps and just being perfunctory and efficient. Death sees this and hatches a plan to instill love and energy back into the lives of his 3 sons. All through a little town named Redemption!
Alex and Cilla have a bit of a fraught first meeting and finding himself stripped of his powers, he soon finds a need to a place to stay and Cilla steps in. Cilla has some problems of her own; her inn needs some TLC, her ex-husband is acting like a complete d*ck and her brother is money mad and determined to get everything!
Cilla may not be feisty in general but when things get tough, this woman has backbone for miles! She hasn't lost her passion for things, she's just choosy about what (and who) she allows into her life now. Her friendship with Rosa and Cal is heart warming and the love she had for her tough but strict grandmother is undeniable. She may think she's nothing special but she brings comfort and hospitality to her guests.
Alex is rough and tough and used to being able to do as he wants. Now he's stuck within Redemption, making himself useful as a handyman and making himself indispensable to Cilla. Oh, and goes completely unhinged when he realises someone put hands on Cilla!
The passion between these two is amazing and the chemistry sizzles from the off. They may be opposites but at their core they are match - they both will do anything for those they love. I would have liked to have seen more of Alex's life prior to Redemption, to see that hardening of his shell but that's m only gripe.
A worthy read and I'm hoping that Kieran's story isn't far away!
December 10, 2025
Alex is the son of Death- The Grim Reaper. He's a reaper himself and has reaped all the souls he's been told to. He's done his job for thousands of years. His dad has always pit he and his other brothers against each other in challenges. So, when his dad tells him that he's sending him on yet another challenge it doesn't surprise him. It does anger him when he's thrown directly in front of a woman and causes a small car accident with her. Alex has no idea what he's supposed to be doing so he waits to see if his dad will send him some signs. While waiting, he starts to fall for the woman who he crashed into, Cilla who owns a bed and breakfast that he's now staying at for a few days.
When he realizes that he thinks he's supposed to be there for Cilla when she dies so he can reap her soul, he knows that it will hurt but if he doesn't do what his dad wants, he'll be punished. While he's staying around the bed and breakfast, he watches how Cilla's brother and ex-husband push her around and try to bully her into selling the bed and breakfast she owns. She won't budge and Alex thinks that's how she's going to end up dying. She's gotten in their way, and they aren't taking no for an answer.
Alex isn't willing to give up Cilla though now that he's found happiness. He knows there will be consequences; he just hopes that Cilla isn't the one to get punished along with him.
I really liked seeing Alex's brother, Sam. I was really hoping that they would make contact and get to know each other a little better. I can't wait to read the next book in this series and see what happens to these brothers.
Disclosure: I was given an E-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When he realizes that he thinks he's supposed to be there for Cilla when she dies so he can reap her soul, he knows that it will hurt but if he doesn't do what his dad wants, he'll be punished. While he's staying around the bed and breakfast, he watches how Cilla's brother and ex-husband push her around and try to bully her into selling the bed and breakfast she owns. She won't budge and Alex thinks that's how she's going to end up dying. She's gotten in their way, and they aren't taking no for an answer.
Alex isn't willing to give up Cilla though now that he's found happiness. He knows there will be consequences; he just hopes that Cilla isn't the one to get punished along with him.
I really liked seeing Alex's brother, Sam. I was really hoping that they would make contact and get to know each other a little better. I can't wait to read the next book in this series and see what happens to these brothers.
Disclosure: I was given an E-ARC of this book via NetGalley but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 10, 2025
"Alexiares" plunges us into a whirlwind of chaos, romance, and unexpected revelations as we follow Alexiares Blackwell, the second son of Death, who finds himself stranded in the peculiar town of Redemption.
Stripped of his powers and thrown into a world where emotions run rampant, Alex is forced to confront both his past and the very essence of what it means to be human.
The author has written a story that balances humor and depth, exploring themes of father-son dynamics, the struggle for identity, and the complexities of love.
Alex's journey was great to watch as he grapples with his growing feelings for Cilla Wainwright, an inn owner who sparks an unexpected attraction that threatens his duties as a reaper. The chemistry between the two characters is electric, filled with tension and tender moments that will keep you turning the pages.
Cilla is a fantastic character, totally the opposite to Alex, providing warmth and humor amidst his internal conflict. Their interactions are playful, showing the differences between Alex's supernatural origins and Cilla's very human life.
The plot twists kept me reading, especially as Alex learns that the next soul he’s meant to reap could be the woman he’s falling for! 😧
Overall, "Alexiares" is a great addition to the Blackwell Brothers series that combines humor, heart, and a dose of danger.
Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through Redemption, where love complicates the lines between life and death, and where even Death’s son can find a chance at redemption.
I’d read the first book, so I was excited to read book 2.
You don’t need to read book one to enjoy this one.
🦋
*copy supplied for review
Stripped of his powers and thrown into a world where emotions run rampant, Alex is forced to confront both his past and the very essence of what it means to be human.
The author has written a story that balances humor and depth, exploring themes of father-son dynamics, the struggle for identity, and the complexities of love.
Alex's journey was great to watch as he grapples with his growing feelings for Cilla Wainwright, an inn owner who sparks an unexpected attraction that threatens his duties as a reaper. The chemistry between the two characters is electric, filled with tension and tender moments that will keep you turning the pages.
Cilla is a fantastic character, totally the opposite to Alex, providing warmth and humor amidst his internal conflict. Their interactions are playful, showing the differences between Alex's supernatural origins and Cilla's very human life.
The plot twists kept me reading, especially as Alex learns that the next soul he’s meant to reap could be the woman he’s falling for! 😧
Overall, "Alexiares" is a great addition to the Blackwell Brothers series that combines humor, heart, and a dose of danger.
Buckle up for a rollercoaster ride through Redemption, where love complicates the lines between life and death, and where even Death’s son can find a chance at redemption.
I’d read the first book, so I was excited to read book 2.
You don’t need to read book one to enjoy this one.
🦋
*copy supplied for review
October 14, 2025
Love and choices
I loved this second book in the series. Once again this author has worked her story weaving magic to create a beautiful fantasy tale. The story was perfectly balanced between the suspense and the romance. The attraction and heat between Cilla and Alexiares inexorably swirled up higher and higher as the story unfolded, as did the danger and suspense. It all swirled together to make the book unputdownable. There was a bit of nail biting while reading it. I knew how it was supposed to end - he is a reaper after all - but I was on pins and needles to find out exactly how it all was going to play out. Cilla is divorced and runs the B&B in the small town of Redemption. She inherited it from her grandmother and it’s the only place that ever felt like home. Alexiares is an immortal reaper and one of Death’s sons. The Grim Reaper believes Alexiares is not doing his job correctly and has tasked him to reap the next soul properly or be banished to the Shadowland for eternity. To accomplish this, Alex is dropped off on the road on his motorcycle outside Redemption with no powers and with limited resources. And he immediately crashes into Cilla’s car. He soon realizes she’s his assignment and thinks it’ll be easy to help Cilla and to reap her when her time comes but their growing feelings for each other complicate everything. The story was well written and included three dimensional characters who grow, good world building, big feels and a captivating storyline. I am looking forward to the final book in the series. 4.5 stars.
I loved this second book in the series. Once again this author has worked her story weaving magic to create a beautiful fantasy tale. The story was perfectly balanced between the suspense and the romance. The attraction and heat between Cilla and Alexiares inexorably swirled up higher and higher as the story unfolded, as did the danger and suspense. It all swirled together to make the book unputdownable. There was a bit of nail biting while reading it. I knew how it was supposed to end - he is a reaper after all - but I was on pins and needles to find out exactly how it all was going to play out. Cilla is divorced and runs the B&B in the small town of Redemption. She inherited it from her grandmother and it’s the only place that ever felt like home. Alexiares is an immortal reaper and one of Death’s sons. The Grim Reaper believes Alexiares is not doing his job correctly and has tasked him to reap the next soul properly or be banished to the Shadowland for eternity. To accomplish this, Alex is dropped off on the road on his motorcycle outside Redemption with no powers and with limited resources. And he immediately crashes into Cilla’s car. He soon realizes she’s his assignment and thinks it’ll be easy to help Cilla and to reap her when her time comes but their growing feelings for each other complicate everything. The story was well written and included three dimensional characters who grow, good world building, big feels and a captivating storyline. I am looking forward to the final book in the series. 4.5 stars.
November 14, 2025
The Grim Reaper’s Second Son
Walters has a way of writing a book that keeps its reader so absorbed that before they know it, the book is finished and they want the next one. At least, that is how I felt after finishing this book. Alex is a reaper just like his father and his two brothers: Samael and Kieran. I hope at some point we find out the reasoning behind Death’s need to test his son’s allegiance. Did they have a human mother? Is that why Samael from book one and Alexiares desire to mingle with the human race more than the other reapers?
In this book Alex is unceremoniously dropped into small town Redemption, just like Sam. He is told that his assignment will be disclosed at the appropriate time, which is bazaar since reapers always know whose soul they have come to reap. Death had him literally crash into the Ivy House inn’s owner Cilla Wainwright who took over the running of the inn after her grandmother’s death. Cilla is dealing with an overbearing older brother and her ex-husband; both of whom think they should own the inn instead of her! Alex finds out a lot about himself on this assignment but can he fulfill his father’s challenge and regain his position as reaper?
Oh. My. If you like steamy and intriguing paranormal fiction as in gods dealing with humans, you will want to read this one. I highly recommend all the books by this author. They begin strong and keep the reader spell-bound. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Entangled and NetGalley.
Walters has a way of writing a book that keeps its reader so absorbed that before they know it, the book is finished and they want the next one. At least, that is how I felt after finishing this book. Alex is a reaper just like his father and his two brothers: Samael and Kieran. I hope at some point we find out the reasoning behind Death’s need to test his son’s allegiance. Did they have a human mother? Is that why Samael from book one and Alexiares desire to mingle with the human race more than the other reapers?
In this book Alex is unceremoniously dropped into small town Redemption, just like Sam. He is told that his assignment will be disclosed at the appropriate time, which is bazaar since reapers always know whose soul they have come to reap. Death had him literally crash into the Ivy House inn’s owner Cilla Wainwright who took over the running of the inn after her grandmother’s death. Cilla is dealing with an overbearing older brother and her ex-husband; both of whom think they should own the inn instead of her! Alex finds out a lot about himself on this assignment but can he fulfill his father’s challenge and regain his position as reaper?
Oh. My. If you like steamy and intriguing paranormal fiction as in gods dealing with humans, you will want to read this one. I highly recommend all the books by this author. They begin strong and keep the reader spell-bound. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Entangled and NetGalley.
December 1, 2025
Well written, but skippable
First off, I gotta say, Death has got to be the WORST BOSS EVER!! The first time you hear about a performance issue should NEVER be in the annual review. But apparently Death doesn’t know about performance evals or annual reviews, since he lets his sons believe they are doing a sufficient job until he suddenly tells them they are at their last chance. Huh? Wait. Why is the first chance also the last chance? And since when is a substandard job performance punishable by eternal imprisonment???? WTF, Dad.
It didn’t bother me as much in Sam’s book because Sam WAS screwing up. But Alex had every reason to believe he was doing the job right. And then when he’s told to do better, he’s given zero guidance on what better looks like. Death essentially said, “I’m putting you on a PIP. There isn’t actually a ‘plan’ for your improvement, but here’s a detailed list of what will happen to you if you fail. Good luck.”
*sigh* Ok, I had to get that off my chest. Now regarding the rest of the book…
It was kinda boring. It followed the same pattern as Book 1, with mostly minor changes between characters. The resolution was somewhat unsatisfying for me, and there’s no explanation for why Sam and Alex received different outcomes (physically). If I could expect the same story again for Kieran, I wouldn’t bother. However, there’s reason to believe that Book 3 will be different, so I might go ahead and give it a try.
First off, I gotta say, Death has got to be the WORST BOSS EVER!! The first time you hear about a performance issue should NEVER be in the annual review. But apparently Death doesn’t know about performance evals or annual reviews, since he lets his sons believe they are doing a sufficient job until he suddenly tells them they are at their last chance. Huh? Wait. Why is the first chance also the last chance? And since when is a substandard job performance punishable by eternal imprisonment???? WTF, Dad.
It didn’t bother me as much in Sam’s book because Sam WAS screwing up. But Alex had every reason to believe he was doing the job right. And then when he’s told to do better, he’s given zero guidance on what better looks like. Death essentially said, “I’m putting you on a PIP. There isn’t actually a ‘plan’ for your improvement, but here’s a detailed list of what will happen to you if you fail. Good luck.”
*sigh* Ok, I had to get that off my chest. Now regarding the rest of the book…
It was kinda boring. It followed the same pattern as Book 1, with mostly minor changes between characters. The resolution was somewhat unsatisfying for me, and there’s no explanation for why Sam and Alex received different outcomes (physically). If I could expect the same story again for Kieran, I wouldn’t bother. However, there’s reason to believe that Book 3 will be different, so I might go ahead and give it a try.
November 10, 2025
The grim reaper is at it again this time he’s trapped his second son in the small town of Redemption literally putting his bike directly in the path of a woman’s car, telling him if he doesn’t complete his mission he’ll be banished to their homeland.
To be fair Alexaires has become complacent and lost his humanity as he reaps soul after soul through time. But with the threat of banishment, he refuses to fail this mission. But the more he spends time with the woman who almost ran him down at her bed and breakfast, the more his humanity returns and he finds maybe there is something that could keep him from completing his mission after all.
I really enjoyed the first brother’s book, so I was excited to return to this world. Alex is very different from his older brother, but I loved him all the same. He and Cilla are both stubborn second children and it shows. I loved seeing him warm back up with her and watching her grow once she finally has healthy support in her life.
The suspense element definitely kept me hooked as I needed to know how it would all work out okay especially knowing what his mission would mean for Cilla.
Definitely a must read if you like suspense, small town, PNR, with characters you can’t help but root for and a well-earned HEA.
Thanks so much to @entangled_publishing for sending me a @netgalley widget for review!
To be fair Alexaires has become complacent and lost his humanity as he reaps soul after soul through time. But with the threat of banishment, he refuses to fail this mission. But the more he spends time with the woman who almost ran him down at her bed and breakfast, the more his humanity returns and he finds maybe there is something that could keep him from completing his mission after all.
I really enjoyed the first brother’s book, so I was excited to return to this world. Alex is very different from his older brother, but I loved him all the same. He and Cilla are both stubborn second children and it shows. I loved seeing him warm back up with her and watching her grow once she finally has healthy support in her life.
The suspense element definitely kept me hooked as I needed to know how it would all work out okay especially knowing what his mission would mean for Cilla.
Definitely a must read if you like suspense, small town, PNR, with characters you can’t help but root for and a well-earned HEA.
Thanks so much to @entangled_publishing for sending me a @netgalley widget for review!
November 21, 2025
This is the second book in the Blackwell Brothers Redemption series. It can be read standalone.
This is a paranormal romance that follows Alexiares, the second son of Death, aka The Grim Reaper. Reaping souls is his life’s work and he has been doing so for thousands of years.
Until his father drops a challenge in his lap. Reap souls properly, with passion and intent or be exiled to the Shadowland for eternity and never reap again. There is no choice but to accept the challenge.
Cilla lives in the small town of Redemption where she own a B&B, that she inherited from her beloved grandmother. While she is strong willed, she has been put down most of her life by her father, older brother and ex-husband.
Alex and Cilla meet and he realizes that she is his mission. As he comes to know her, they develop a relationship, an attraction and he is torn by what he must do knowing her death is imminent.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Alex’s character and really felt his torment in my gut as he became Cilla’s friend, protector and lover. The story is a very intimate forbidden romance, with strong theme of self-discovery.
Overall, a great bingeable read that I would recommend. I will definitely be going to read Samael’s story as well.
Thank you to @entangledpublishing and @netgalley for providing me a copy of this book to read and review.
This is a paranormal romance that follows Alexiares, the second son of Death, aka The Grim Reaper. Reaping souls is his life’s work and he has been doing so for thousands of years.
Until his father drops a challenge in his lap. Reap souls properly, with passion and intent or be exiled to the Shadowland for eternity and never reap again. There is no choice but to accept the challenge.
Cilla lives in the small town of Redemption where she own a B&B, that she inherited from her beloved grandmother. While she is strong willed, she has been put down most of her life by her father, older brother and ex-husband.
Alex and Cilla meet and he realizes that she is his mission. As he comes to know her, they develop a relationship, an attraction and he is torn by what he must do knowing her death is imminent.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved Alex’s character and really felt his torment in my gut as he became Cilla’s friend, protector and lover. The story is a very intimate forbidden romance, with strong theme of self-discovery.
Overall, a great bingeable read that I would recommend. I will definitely be going to read Samael’s story as well.
Thank you to @entangledpublishing and @netgalley for providing me a copy of this book to read and review.
October 10, 2025
💀✨ ARC Reveal: Alexiares by N.J. Walters ✨💀
Pub Date: November 10, 2025
The Grim Reaper’s son just crashed into small-town trouble.
Alexiares Blackwell was supposed to be reaping souls and riding his Harley through New York, not waking up powerless in a tiny town called Redemption. But when Death himself decides his son needs a “lesson in humanity,” Alex finds himself stuck among mortals… and dangerously drawn to one in particular.
Cilla Wainwright runs the local inn with a heart as warm as her smile and Alex’s broody, leather-clad charm doesn’t stand a chance. One stolen kiss changes everything. Except there’s one problem: her soul might be next on his list.
🖤 Grumpy reaper x sunshine innkeeper
🖤 Small-town paranormal romance
🖤 Forced proximity + forbidden love
🖤 Motorcycle + grim reaper aesthetic
🖤 Found family (and father-son drama with Death himself)
If you loved Samael, get ready for another darkly funny, emotionally charged ride through Redemption. This one is steamy, supernatural, and full of heart.
#Alexiares #NJWalters #BlackwellBrothers #ParanormalRomance #SmallTownRomance #GrimReaperRomance #ForbiddenLove #Bookstagram #RomanceReaders #SupernaturalRomance #ReaperRomance #ARCReview #EntangledPublishing
Pub Date: November 10, 2025
The Grim Reaper’s son just crashed into small-town trouble.
Alexiares Blackwell was supposed to be reaping souls and riding his Harley through New York, not waking up powerless in a tiny town called Redemption. But when Death himself decides his son needs a “lesson in humanity,” Alex finds himself stuck among mortals… and dangerously drawn to one in particular.
Cilla Wainwright runs the local inn with a heart as warm as her smile and Alex’s broody, leather-clad charm doesn’t stand a chance. One stolen kiss changes everything. Except there’s one problem: her soul might be next on his list.
🖤 Grumpy reaper x sunshine innkeeper
🖤 Small-town paranormal romance
🖤 Forced proximity + forbidden love
🖤 Motorcycle + grim reaper aesthetic
🖤 Found family (and father-son drama with Death himself)
If you loved Samael, get ready for another darkly funny, emotionally charged ride through Redemption. This one is steamy, supernatural, and full of heart.
#Alexiares #NJWalters #BlackwellBrothers #ParanormalRomance #SmallTownRomance #GrimReaperRomance #ForbiddenLove #Bookstagram #RomanceReaders #SupernaturalRomance #ReaperRomance #ARCReview #EntangledPublishing
October 23, 2025
Alex is an immortal reaper that crash-landed and is now stranded in Redemption, thanks to his father, Death. Alex simply has to reap the soul of someone unknown before he can return to his regular life. Sounds simple enough. Except he crashes, literally, into the local innkeeper and finds himself drawn to her in ways that he can’t avoid and has never experience before with someone whose soul he was supposed to reap.
Cilla is a sweet, strong, hardworking woman who is passionate about keeping the Ivy House up and running as a way to honor her late grandmother. Her ex-husband, in-cahoots with her brother, will stop at nothing to get this property from her.
Alex and Cilla’s story starts off slow and it took me a little while to truly get into the book but once I did I had a hard time putting it down. The pacing was great, Alex is such a caring, helpful and sweet guy and I love a strong FMC so I truly enjoyed Cilla. I really only disliked the 3rd person POV but I loved the characters enough to ignore it for the most part.
I enjoyed Alex and Cilla’s story as much as I did Samael and Adrienne’s and I’m looking forward to reading Kieran’s story next!
Thanks to Entangled Publishing for the eARC!
Cilla is a sweet, strong, hardworking woman who is passionate about keeping the Ivy House up and running as a way to honor her late grandmother. Her ex-husband, in-cahoots with her brother, will stop at nothing to get this property from her.
Alex and Cilla’s story starts off slow and it took me a little while to truly get into the book but once I did I had a hard time putting it down. The pacing was great, Alex is such a caring, helpful and sweet guy and I love a strong FMC so I truly enjoyed Cilla. I really only disliked the 3rd person POV but I loved the characters enough to ignore it for the most part.
I enjoyed Alex and Cilla’s story as much as I did Samael and Adrienne’s and I’m looking forward to reading Kieran’s story next!
Thanks to Entangled Publishing for the eARC!
October 24, 2025
This is a really easy, quick read, spicy with an element of mystery that kept me interested to know who was behind the things happening to Cilla. I'm not into the instalust trope, and the connection between the two MCs was VERY instalusty so I'm not a huge fan of their relationship. Everything went from zero to 100 in the blink of an eye. Alex is a stranger who quite literally ran into her on the road, and she's inviting him into her B&B and kissed him after hardly speaking to him at all. The strength of their feelings for each other and actions in response to those feelings don't make sense to me. I needed more to make what they were saying and feeling believable (HOW DO YOU LOVE EACH OTHER AFTER ONLY A FEW DAYS?!) IDK it felt SO FAST and out of place. It is also strange to me that her friends who care about her wellbeing are trusting this stranger with Cilla's safety?! Why are you ok with them just being alone together, especially after sketchy things start happening after running into him. That didn't make sense to me. I think if you're wanting a spicy, fun read, with smol girl needing to be saved by big manly man, you'll enjoy this. Thanks Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for the e-ARC!
November 2, 2025
Alexiares
Blackwell Brothers Redemption Book #2
N.J. Walters
Alexiares Blackwell is a reaper. One minute he was reaping yet another human soul and gunning through New York City on his harley, and the next thing he noticed he's been dropped into the path of an upcoming car in the small town of redemption.
It seems that his dear old Dad (and also the head of all reapers) has decided that his son Alex needs a crash course in humanity.
Now he's literally stuck on a nowhere town with nothing but his motorcycle and some serious parents issues.
But in all honesty no one messes with death and that includes his sons.
Alex is now stripped of his powers, and trying to find out what his father wants from him. All the while he's he's attempting to resist his increasingly complicated attraction to Inn owner Cilla Wainwright.
Another five star book for Ms. Walters. This author can change up her genres and never fail to disappoint. This book had me from the moment I opened it until the moment it ended, and long after that. If you are looking for an amazing paranormal book then look no further this is the book for you. Once again Ms. Walters you have knocked it out of the park.
Blackwell Brothers Redemption Book #2
N.J. Walters
Alexiares Blackwell is a reaper. One minute he was reaping yet another human soul and gunning through New York City on his harley, and the next thing he noticed he's been dropped into the path of an upcoming car in the small town of redemption.
It seems that his dear old Dad (and also the head of all reapers) has decided that his son Alex needs a crash course in humanity.
Now he's literally stuck on a nowhere town with nothing but his motorcycle and some serious parents issues.
But in all honesty no one messes with death and that includes his sons.
Alex is now stripped of his powers, and trying to find out what his father wants from him. All the while he's he's attempting to resist his increasingly complicated attraction to Inn owner Cilla Wainwright.
Another five star book for Ms. Walters. This author can change up her genres and never fail to disappoint. This book had me from the moment I opened it until the moment it ended, and long after that. If you are looking for an amazing paranormal book then look no further this is the book for you. Once again Ms. Walters you have knocked it out of the park.
November 24, 2025
*4.5 stars*
Had all the emotion…
NJ Walters is one of my go-to authors with genres ranging from paranormal to small town romances, she knows how to convey her character’s emotions and feelings. And oh boy, do Alexiares and Cilla have a lot of both. And so, they should. Alex’s ‘family obligations’ are nothing to laugh at – being dam*ed for eternity is no joke after all. Cilla’s family situation is nothing short of outrageous, if not even deadly…
Alexiares has no money, no credit, no wheels and no powers as he finds himself in a small town with few options. Cilla was unexpected and when he finds out she is his assignment, well, that’s where the feelings and emotions come into play. For him and Cilla as well. Told from their alternating points of view, the story careened along at a break-neck pace, paused only by the moments of clarity as they grew closer.
I was tied up in knots, wondering how their love story would pan out wondering if their story would have a happy ending. With nothing guaranteed this was an edge of your seat ride that delivered from start to finish…
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled/Amara
Had all the emotion…
NJ Walters is one of my go-to authors with genres ranging from paranormal to small town romances, she knows how to convey her character’s emotions and feelings. And oh boy, do Alexiares and Cilla have a lot of both. And so, they should. Alex’s ‘family obligations’ are nothing to laugh at – being dam*ed for eternity is no joke after all. Cilla’s family situation is nothing short of outrageous, if not even deadly…
Alexiares has no money, no credit, no wheels and no powers as he finds himself in a small town with few options. Cilla was unexpected and when he finds out she is his assignment, well, that’s where the feelings and emotions come into play. For him and Cilla as well. Told from their alternating points of view, the story careened along at a break-neck pace, paused only by the moments of clarity as they grew closer.
I was tied up in knots, wondering how their love story would pan out wondering if their story would have a happy ending. With nothing guaranteed this was an edge of your seat ride that delivered from start to finish…
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled/Amara
October 11, 2025
I think initially rated book one higher than book two, but I think I like book two more than the first. This was a great read.
The grim reaper accidentally falls for a woman he’s supposed to kill? Yes please. This felt like the dynamic we get in Belladonna between the main character and death. The universe is trying to keep them away from one another, yet they can’t stay away. They need each other like air. They need each other more than life itself. Alex no longer thinks his life has meaning without her, and he’s ready to forsake everything he knows for her. The obsession and yearning got to me.
I also lovedddd that book one’s characters are here! We got to see Samael back in action, which was an amazing surprise treat. That being said, you don’t need to read book one to enjoy this one. Pieces will click together better, but the romance and dynamics are fabulous in their own right.
Will definitely be containing to read this series. Each book is easy to read, spicy, and super fun. Love it.
Thank you very much to Entangled and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
The grim reaper accidentally falls for a woman he’s supposed to kill? Yes please. This felt like the dynamic we get in Belladonna between the main character and death. The universe is trying to keep them away from one another, yet they can’t stay away. They need each other like air. They need each other more than life itself. Alex no longer thinks his life has meaning without her, and he’s ready to forsake everything he knows for her. The obsession and yearning got to me.
I also lovedddd that book one’s characters are here! We got to see Samael back in action, which was an amazing surprise treat. That being said, you don’t need to read book one to enjoy this one. Pieces will click together better, but the romance and dynamics are fabulous in their own right.
Will definitely be containing to read this series. Each book is easy to read, spicy, and super fun. Love it.
Thank you very much to Entangled and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
October 28, 2025
Alexiares is a Reaper and the son of the Grim Reaper; his father decides he needs to learn more about humanity. His father strips him of his powers and leaves him stuck in the small town of Redemption, trying to figure out his purpose—until he literally crashes into the life of the inn owner, Cilla Wainwright.
Cilla brings warmth, steadiness, and that unexpected spark that shakes Alex’s world. The attraction between the two is instant and impossible. Alex is trying to resist his feelings, especially because his father's final twist is revealed: the next soul he's supposed to reap is Cilla's. Alex’s brooding intensity and Cilla’s compassion create an interesting balance.
I enjoyed the push-and-pull of power, vulnerability, and attraction that makes their connection feel genuine. The romance is steamy and full of tension. The question of whether their forbidden love can literally survive fate kept me hooked.
I received a free copy of this ebook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cilla brings warmth, steadiness, and that unexpected spark that shakes Alex’s world. The attraction between the two is instant and impossible. Alex is trying to resist his feelings, especially because his father's final twist is revealed: the next soul he's supposed to reap is Cilla's. Alex’s brooding intensity and Cilla’s compassion create an interesting balance.
I enjoyed the push-and-pull of power, vulnerability, and attraction that makes their connection feel genuine. The romance is steamy and full of tension. The question of whether their forbidden love can literally survive fate kept me hooked.
I received a free copy of this ebook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2025
I absolutely love NJ Walters and the Blackwell Brothers’ Redemption series, and Book #2 was just as amazing as Book #1.
Alexiares and Cilla…talk about instant attraction! Alex flies into Cilla’s life heart first (literally) and never leaves. As one of Death’s sons, his job is to reap souls. And, oddly enough, it looks like his father has sent him to complete a task that he has no understanding of. That is, until he meets Cilla.
Cilla runs Ivy House, a bed-and-breakfast in the town of Redemption. And she is fighting a battle from all sides, with her brother and ex-husband trying to claim Ivy House for themselves. Alex waltzes into her life, and she falls head over heels for him.
Alex & Cilla’s relationship was really a great read. I’m not usually one to enjoy the insta-attraction trope, but it really worked for this book! And (no spoilers!) the major plot point that is key to this book was NOT what I was expecting! I knew from Samael that something had to happen…but I was not expecting this!
100% a 5-star read for me, and I cannot wait for Kieran’s story next!!
Alexiares and Cilla…talk about instant attraction! Alex flies into Cilla’s life heart first (literally) and never leaves. As one of Death’s sons, his job is to reap souls. And, oddly enough, it looks like his father has sent him to complete a task that he has no understanding of. That is, until he meets Cilla.
Cilla runs Ivy House, a bed-and-breakfast in the town of Redemption. And she is fighting a battle from all sides, with her brother and ex-husband trying to claim Ivy House for themselves. Alex waltzes into her life, and she falls head over heels for him.
Alex & Cilla’s relationship was really a great read. I’m not usually one to enjoy the insta-attraction trope, but it really worked for this book! And (no spoilers!) the major plot point that is key to this book was NOT what I was expecting! I knew from Samael that something had to happen…but I was not expecting this!
100% a 5-star read for me, and I cannot wait for Kieran’s story next!!
October 20, 2025
I think this was a really entertaining read and am offering it four stars.
This is book 2 of the Redemption / Blackwell brothers series. Alexiares is the middle brother (older brother, Samael, is the first book), is the grim reaper's son, and a reaper himself. His job is to escort his "assignments" to the afterlife, which he's been doing for all of eternity. Alexiares (Alex) has grown bored of the redundancy and doesn't feel emotionally connected to his assignments anymore. Enter: his father/ the grim reaper, who sends him to the town of Redemption with a task and a warning: either complete your assignment, or lose all of your powers and be grounded in the Shadowlands forever. Alex was completely ready to get this task over and done with, until he meets Cilla.
Overall, this book was really engaging and I really enjoyed it. The one criticism I'll give is that it seems a bit repetitive of Samael (book 1).
This is book 2 of the Redemption / Blackwell brothers series. Alexiares is the middle brother (older brother, Samael, is the first book), is the grim reaper's son, and a reaper himself. His job is to escort his "assignments" to the afterlife, which he's been doing for all of eternity. Alexiares (Alex) has grown bored of the redundancy and doesn't feel emotionally connected to his assignments anymore. Enter: his father/ the grim reaper, who sends him to the town of Redemption with a task and a warning: either complete your assignment, or lose all of your powers and be grounded in the Shadowlands forever. Alex was completely ready to get this task over and done with, until he meets Cilla.
Overall, this book was really engaging and I really enjoyed it. The one criticism I'll give is that it seems a bit repetitive of Samael (book 1).
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