Nyx considers herself quite adept in the laws of death.
Born as a Necromancer in a world where her kind are at constant war with the Reapers, she’s been raised between both sides. Her ancient family have delicately kept the balance between the two for centuries. That is, until, Nyx meets a boy who couldn’t possibly exist— a ghost. A ghost with no memories of who he was or where he came from.
In the space of a single, chance encounter, their world is turned on its axis as they’re thrown into a new one of prophecies, magic, and strangeness.
And suddenly, Nyx realises that the laws of death are an ever-changing thing.
Wendii McIver is a young Australian author born and raised in the coalfields of Queensland. She is a miner and university student who began her writing journey at fourteen, posting stories online which have now accumulated over six million reads worldwide.
Her award-winning novel, Relic and Ruin, was one of the top 10 most read stories online, and is to be published on JUNE 7th, 2022 with Penguin and Wattpad Books.
Her short story Armie was dubbed one of the 35 most life-changing reads. It was also the basis for the short film of the same name featured at the London Experimental Film Festival in 2019.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley (thank you Wattpad Books). All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Unpopular opinion coming…
✅ Magical powers ✅🆗 Worldbuilding, the concept of reapers and necromancers 🆗 Characters (too many and bland) 🆗 Plot 🆗❌Romance 🆗❌ Pace (things feel rushed, yet I am bored)
DNF at 70%, I might try to finish it later, but for now, I am just so bored and I don’t really enjoy the story or care for the characters so… It's not bad, it's just not good either...
Fire, metal, blood, and bone. Protect thy haven from creatures that roam.
Nyx Lahey comes from a family of necromancers that shifted their allegiance many years ago and are now training with the Reapers, even though Reapers and Necros have been enemies for a long time. Erebus Salem is a hunter who also happens to be a kinda ghost since he is dead, but he can still interact with humans and he has a physical body. Erebus lives in Dewmort, the in-between world where souls with unfinished business go. Nyx and Erebus run into each other while chasing an “inbetweener” that is attacking and killing young girls. They end up having to work together to evade an evil one who is looking for ancient relics.
With a cover like that, I was expecting something dark and even gory maybe, but this book is not what I would describe as “dark” or “scary”… There are a few skeletons and zombies here and there, and necromancers can raise the dead, but that’s about it. Honestly, I was quite interested by the story for the first 20%, but after that, I was not really hooked and I had to force myself to continue reading and then I just lost interest after 50% of the book.
The world-building seems to be very interesting, but sadly it was not very detailed and well explained. There are mentions of “inbetweeners” in the first chapter, but it is still not 100% clear to me what exactly is considered an “inbetweener”. The ideas are there, but the execution is lacking. We also don’t have that much information about Dewmort and its functioning, or even about the Hallows. I would have really enjoyed a more detailed and thorough world-building so I could get more into the vibe of the book and the plot.
There are so many characters introduced in the first part of this book! Nyx has like 8 cousins and 2 or 3 aunts (it may be more than that…). I honestly struggled to keep track of all the cousins: which ones were sisters, who were their parents, and what special powers they had. They all mixed up at some point because they lacked personality and depth. Some characters were named and thrown into the story with no real purpose and it just made it even harder to keep track of everyone. Most of them don’t have a background story at all and they are quite generic, so I honestly did not get really attached to them. There is definitely room for improvement when it comes to character development.
There are also a lot of creatures in this story, which could have been great, but I am not really sure what some of them have to do with the plot. They are just there and maybe their purpose will become clearer in the next book, but it just added even more information that was not really developed.
Nyx and Erebus could have had an interesting relationship, considering how their first meeting went, but all the combativeness and spunk disappeared quite fast. It feels like they did not really have the time or occasion to get to know each other, and they don’t really have much in common or have a “connection”, but then they suddenly were in love because it was somehow convenient for the plot…
Overall, it all felt a little rushed. The pieces of information are dropped here and there, and there is the usual questioning scene that is used as a way to dump information, where Nyx asks Erebus many questions, and of course, he answers them all truthfully even though he does not know her at all and should not be revealing their information to a human. The world-building could use more building and the characters could use more development and depth. There was potential for this book and there are some good ideas, but it is not quite there yet.
This book is amazing. One of my favourite reads and one of those books that is truly destined for greatness.
Wendii strings together rich characters and descriptions to make a beautiful, yet terrifying story. The emotions expressed by the characters are raw and one of the most relatable I've ever read. While reading this book I cried, laughed, felt panic, fear and happiness.
Without giving too much away, the story follows around an extraordinary girl named Nyx Lahey. Nyx and her family are Necromancers - typically evil beings that raise zombies and try to basically destroy the world. Necromancers' counterparts are known as The Reapers - the scythe bearing goodies that hunt and kill Necromancers and their evil creations. The Lahey's, however, are a family of 'converted' Necromancers, meaning they're still Necromancers but are just raised and taught to act like Reapers.
Nyx's family are assigned to errands like any other Reaper family. Errands that involve hunting down evil Necromancers, rouge Zombies and other 'in-betweeners'. On one fated night while scouring an abandoned amusement park, Nyx runs into a mysterious boy named Erebus. The boy is alarming and Nyx is given many silent warnings from a device known as a Detector - alluding that the boy is dangerous.
Now, this is not an insta-love book. Probably the furthest thing from it. Which can probably be assumed when Nyx and the boy fight, which ultimately leaves the boy pistol-whipped and unconscious in a freezer (told you it was funny). But, by the end of the night, Erebus has disappeared and the only thing left is a strange silver locket that he seemed to have dropped.
From here we're introduce more to Erebus, a city full of dead supernatural beings and three hilarious ghosts. Then, after a serious of devastating events, Wendii throws in twisted myths and legends, and heartbreaking story turns. She also incorporates well known fairy-tale/story characters - like Hansel and Gretel, The Mad Hatter, Krampus and others - and various mythologies (including Norse, Greek, Mexican/Aztec, Celtic and even Haitian) into her story while maintaining that link between supernatural beings like Necromancers and Reapers.
There’s so many layers to this book. It’s so in depth and carefully thought-out, you can really see the time and effort that was put into this work. Definitely one of my favourites!
Words can't even explain how much I love this book. Just, ugh, I can't even deal. It's one of those books where, after you finish a chapter of something you just hold your phone/tablet/laptop/whatever to your chest and sigh. I absolutely freaking love everything, the setting, her unfathomable descriptions, her characters, the adventure. It's so good.
You love the shit out of the characters you're meant to love and you hate the ones you're meant to hate with all your heart. And I promise, you've never read, nor will you ever read, anything like this in your entire life. Go and read Born From Chaos NOW, you won't regret anything.
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Relic and Ruin was one of those books that I devoured in one sitting with zero regrets. Though I'm writing my review ten thousand years later, I'll admit that I dove back into this just to see if I remembered what actually went down. I mean, I first read this book a year ago and totally dropped the ball on writing the actual review. Oops?
Anyways, I redeemed myself completely because I still enjoyed the heck out of this. I will admit that I'm little sad and disappointed there's no sequel available yet. Back to the book, in this you will meet two relics - Nyx (the Banshee) and Erebus (the Wraith). They don't know what they are until they are basically kidnapped by some interesting characters. There's also the young God, Bellum, who wants to kill them to bring back his dad.
I honestly really enjoyed getting to know each and every character throughout the book. My heart broke when certain characters died or were in a way tortured by certain people. I also really liked how everyone's power was super unique to them. Sure, we had like five hundred necromancers and/or reapers, but they also had their own power that was super cool.
For example, Lilith's power during the zombie battle while she was somewhere else was so freaking cool! Then there's Nyx and her Banshee power that basically everyone underestimated. Other than that, we also get some romance, but I honestly wanted more than we got. Which is why I really want the next book to become available, so I can watch that bloom into something beautiful.
In the end, I really enjoyed this book the first (and second) time around. Definitely need the sequel to fall into my lap soon.
Absolutely Amazing. This word isn't enough to describe this wonder of a book. it's probably one of the most beautifully written books that i have ever came across.
The main female protagonist of the book - Nyx - is an absolute badass. Not just her, but all the characters in the book make u feel various emotions! Throughout the book, i cried and giggled and squealed and what not. The characters have amazing bond to each other that makes u feel warm from inside. And the romance in the book is super adorable, which is a bonus!
All in all, the ultimate point is that reading this book was worth the time, and deserves so much more recognition!
P.S. This book can totally be adapted as a T.V. series!
Thank you to Wattpad Books and NetGalley for providing a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Relic and Ruin tells the story of Nyx and Erebus, two unusual people in an already unusual world. Surrounded by necromancy and 'reaping' - where one side can bring the dead back to life while the other can cut them dead - this novel has one of the most interesting and well developed magic systems in recent fantasy. With subplots that offer relevant and enjoyable distractions from the main narrative, the story is, for the most part, well paced. The ending could have been slightly more fleshed out yet it didn't feel as though anything was missing, just that more would have been welcomed.
Side characters such as Chasity, Alice, Damon and Hatter offer intrigue yet are never fully realised enough which can be rectified in future novels within the series however, within Relic and Ruin, they do tend to lack punch.
While the magic system is incredible and we see a lot of world building - and without info-dumping, too - there is so much going on within each world, be it Dewmort, Earth or the Hallows that there will be so much still to discover in subsequent novels to fully create these exciting worlds.
Ultimately this was an incredible read and one which could not be put down and the other novels in the Born From Chaos saga will definitely highly anticipated. An easy contender for book of the year.
Note: Thank you to Netgalley & the publishers for allowing me access to this arc!
Right from the start ("In the Beginning"), I knew this book was going to be a fast-paced book that I wouldn't be able to put down. And boy, was I right! Relic and Ruin is an exciting adventure that I had no problem sliding through. This book fits into the YA and Fantasy categories perfectly. So if that is what you are looking for, then read on! Now I need to add the author's other books to my tbr.
The Good Things 1. The main characters are all written well. 2. I want to mention that the relationships between the necromancers and reapers are intriguing and definitely add a bit more dimension to the overall book. It's an interesting relationship dynamic and certainly one that I have not seen written before. 3. I also love the monsters and zombies that are mixed into the chaos. Talk about exceptional world-building. 4. The book is fast-paced and action-packed.
The Bad Things 1. I SPED through this book, which in my opinion, is a good thing! Others may see it as a bad thing, as they may want a book with a bit more UMPH that isn't so rushed. 2. Some of the supporting characters are a bit lackluster. 3. The last chapter was NOT my favorite. However, it did leave me wanting to read the next book in the series! I suppose that is the point, though.
I have to say I adored this book! Thank you so much #netgalley, for allowing me to read this eArc of #RelicandRuin by #WendiiMcIver. I love the story of Erebus and Nyx! I love the way they followed the story of Grim and Neco and their families through the centauries. The story follows descendants of Neco and Grim who are the originals that eventually in a way destroy each other and so their power is passed through to others in their stead called Relics and Ruins. The most powerful of the Relic and Ruins are Amore. Mortem is an interesting character, he seems like he would be not a wonderful person but I actually really liked him and he is a very powerful Necromancer. The story follows Reapers, Necromancers, Seers and several other types of supernatural beings. Its a great book I can't wait for it to come out so I can purchase!!!!!
Born from Chaos is simply amazing, dark, funny, thrilling, heart-wrenching, beautiful, and emotional. There is no simple way to describe this book and how it makes you feel. The setting, the world-building, the characters, the plot, the humor, the writing, were all on point. There is no aspect of the story I hated (except the occasional grammar/spelling slip ups).
I was given an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
As I continue to read, I will update my star rating and my review.
First impressions: love the lore. The magic system is unique and interesting. Quick worldbuilding, lots of character introductions at the beginning.
Reapers and Necromancers. Magic and horror. Creatures from the inbetween. Mystery and intrigue.
Nyx is from a family of Necromancers, but trained as a Reaper. Necromancers aren’t trusted, nor are their abilities and gifts. Reapers expel creatures from the inbetween to keep the world safe. Struggling with her identity, with prophecies and history, she’s doing her best.
Erebus is a hunter. A human trained to hunt the inbetweeners as well. Able to turn into a raven to escape danger. Oh, and he’s dead. And lives in the inbetween. And has no memory of who or what he was before.
Together they must put aside differences to survive. They are Relics, the only ones who can stop the evils that are to come, and key to a plot to resurrect the first Necromancer and really cause some chaos. And boy, will there be chaos.
Okay so I really enjoyed this book. It grabbed me from the initial tale of Grim and Neco and had me in a chokehold until the end. Great world building, good fight sequences, and i loved the relationships between Nyx and her family, Erebus and his brothers in arms, and Nyx and Erebus.
The twists and turns of the plot, from prophecies and deceit, added to the thriller/horror element and I just ate it UP.
Also: I love that every chapter starts out with a phobia and what it means. Cool trivia is fun for me
TW/CW: death, violence, graphic horror, blood, necromancy, clowns(i added this one bc KILLER CLOWNS nope.)
You’re immediately thrusted into this strange yet fascinating world. We journey along learning about our main characters and their struggles. Such a beautiful yet haunting world full of suspense and danger lurking around every corner. I love the story and the character development, however there are just too many characters to keep straight that have no real purpose propelling the story forward. Also, there’s a bunch of lore to keep up with as well which can also be a bit disorienting if you’re just starting out reading fantasy. I overall really liked this book.
I wish I could say I enjoyed this. I loved the intro, it had me super hooked and giddy to begin reading. Even the first few chapters were great. But by about a quarter through the book, I started to lose interest and I don't remember much after the first half of the book. I love all the names and different fears though.
I'd like to thank Netgalley for this chance to read and review this story.
It's not the book's fault. It's just me. The story started out well and I was really enjoying it but then there were suddenly so many characters introduced together and everything was happening at the same time that I got confused and lost interest.
ARC provided by NetGalley and Wattpad Books in exchange for an honest review.
I was so disappointed in how this book turned out. When I started it I was so in love. The magic is so interesting and unique, unlike anything I had read before, and we had these creepy, almost horror like, elements throughout the story. But the book changed around the 50% mark and turned into a weird pop culture bland average ya fantasy romance. I wish that the second half of this book could have kept that same spark that ignited the beginning,
I really struggled with all of the characters. Not only do you have a big family where almost everyone seems important to the story, but also you get the POV of the bad guys and other people not directly important to the main story. I felt pulled around trying to figure out who was talking and why they were important to our main characters. This coupled with the grand magic made me feel like this book should have been much longer and more development put into the world and the characters.
Now I mentioned I loved the magic, and that really was the best part of this book. You focus on two different types - reapers and necromancers - and they hate each other. We follow a family who has both abilities, but really the book focuses on the necromancers' abilities. Even by the end of the story I am still not sure what reapers can actually do..... But I loved seeing the second gifts that the necromancers got along with how they needed to use their gifts constantly.
Thanks to Netgalley and Wattpad publishing for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given this ARC by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ¾
Jealousy is so powerful. Jealousy can really make someone do some crazy shit.
Relic and Ruin is a book about the Necromancers and the Reapers. The Banshee and the Wraith.
Nyx Lahey, a necromancer, was raised a Reaper. Erebus Salem, a hunter with the ability to turn into a raven to escape danger. Erebus, harbors a secret, he's not alive. He also does not remember who he was and where he came from. All he knows is his name and his only connection to his past is his locket. He lives in Dewmort, an in-between world, a city of unfinished business where the souls of the supernatural resides. While chasing a ghost that is killing young girls, Nyx unexpectedly runs into Erebus Salem. Erebus loses his locket while on the hunt, which ends up in Nyx's hands. Determined to get it back, Erebus along with his friends keeps an eye on Nyx. But, they aren't the only ones lurking in the shadows. Bellum wants the Relics for his own purpose. Soon Nyx and Erebus are being hunted by Bellum and must avoid being captured.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and had to keep going to find out what is happening. This was a fast pace, adventurous book full of supernatural creatures and action. It was dark and intense. It even got a little gory. The book follows three different worlds: Earth, the Hallows, and Dewmort. I absolutely love all the characters, well except for the villains (but who likes villains anyway?). I LOVE the dynamic between Nyx and Erebus.
HOWEVER, the book feels a little rush. I felt like we were given a little information about the world before moving on again to another one. Also, since there's so many characters, more character development would have been great. The author provides a little background but that's about it. There were some characters that didn't even have a background story. I also felt a little confuse at times while reading a book when it goes from past to present perspective? Like what?
With all that being said. I STILL ENJOYED THIS BOOK. That ending. That ending got me ugly crying emotional.
This one was a blast to read. I love the take on a book with elements of one of my very favorite holidays, Día de los Muertos. Thank you to the author Wendi McIver for this epic tale of kick-assery and thank you Wattpad Books publisher for the eARC copy. When this book comes out I hope everyone grabs and enjoys because this one isn't quite like the others (meaning the fantasy genre) and I mean that as a compliment. If you are looking to read a book with the flair and intrigue of the Kingdom of the Wicked series and characters that make you want to swoon first and ask for their monster identification (or pulse) after–then this book is for you. The pace may feel a bit quick at first, but it didn't bother me at all. The visuals the author takes your imagination through are a colorful landscape of worlds beyond the natural and there are even a few characters you might recognize from other classic tales with a new take on them that feels completely natural. I LOVED IT ALL, especially considering "Alice's Adventures..." is my all time favorite and Hatter my most favorite of all characters. The tale revolves around an ageless and ancient feud between necromancers and reapers and the roots of hate that span over centuries. There are beings of great power called relics and lets just say... the addition of an Amare (l'amour) bond is a Ben & Jerry's flavor of ice cream my sweet tooth craves every time–a perfectly shy slow burn romance that is as sweet as my mama's homemade pecan pie. My only bit of constructive criticism is a bit of confusion following how the "relics" gene is passed from one family member to the next. I got a bit tied when trying to figure out the exact timeline, or how long after death, Erebus carried this Relic gene when other relic Amare couples are mentioned through time (i.e. Romeo and Juliet, etc.) Isn't Erebus older than them? If he was carrying the relic gene (even after death) then how did they get it? It wouldn't have passed to them if he still had it. It was a timeline knot for me. If you are looking for an action packed, character driven, multi POV read with all the making of a series you'll stick around for until the end, then make sure you mark the calendar and/or pre-order before June 2022 release.
First of all, I’d like to say that it absolutely blows my mind that not many people know about this book, because this book was magnificent. Period.
It’s so evident how carefully thought out the plot of the story was. Everything, ranging from the settings to the character backgrounds were so incredibly in depth. The author had created this whole new world in her mind, and invited the reader for a ride through it.
Another thing that I loved about this book was the feeling of familiarity in it. Not in the sense that it was unoriginal, but in the sense that it sort of carried me off into a fantasy land that felt like home, as many well-known storybook characters were incorporated in this book, such as Hansel and Gretel, and etc., but don’t get me wrong, it’s nothing like a fairytale.
It’s so much more than that. The descriptions may be beautiful, but they were also terrifying. It was an excellent blend of emotions, guaranteed to give you a good thrill.
Despite the familiar feeling, it was also unpredictable. Whole new fates and backgrounds were created for each character, and these details were described so exceptionally, this story had me craving for more since I read the first sentence of the prologue.
It was THAT fucking amazing.
I don’t even know what to say anymore.
Don’t even get me started on the romance. The whole thing had me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, and squealing in excitement. The slow burn ship really is the best ship you can sail on.
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure if I could finish this book since it was over 120 chapters, and I first read this a few years ago. At the time, I wasn’t really much of an avid reader and wasn’t used to reading such long books. However, I was pleasantly surprised as I finished all available chapters in one sitting. I just couldn’t put it down. I’ve also re-read it a couple of times since then.
Overall, this story was petrifying, but also poignant and endearing. If you think it’ll be boring, think again, because it’s anything BUT boring.
All I can say is, if you’re if thinking about reading it, stop wasting your time by thinking and just read it.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I first need to say this book was amazing. The world building was absolutely incredible with the diffrent 'species' and just the entire history that was created for this story, I could see how much time was spend on this world and I honest to god can't wait for the next book, I can't believe you left me on a cliffhanger.
I did choose to only give 4 stars and here is why: There were a LOT of characters. This doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing but a lot of characters got their own pov in some way and I sadly couldn't keep track of who is who and who they are to the main character.
Second, the relationship. Altough I did really like Erebos and Nyx, and I even shipped them, their relationship felt very rushed for where they started. They didn't like eachother at the beginning and then suddenly... they did?
And last: The story itself felt rushed. I feel like this book easily could've had 500+ pages and I would've read easier away then I did now. Some parts were just too quick where they should've been slow, while the fighting scenes seemed really long.
But everything together, I think this book is going to do some great things for the fantasy world and I'm excited for it to be available for everyone :)
I have to say I adored this book! Thank you so much #netgalley, for allowing me to read this eArc of #RelicandRuin by #WendiiMcIver. I love the story of Erebus and Nyx! I love the way they followed the story of Grim and Neco and their families through the centauries. The story follows descendants of Neco and Grim who are the originals that eventually in a way destroy each other and so their power is passed through to others in their stead called Relics and Ruins. The most powerful of the Relic and Ruins are Amore. Mortem is an interesting character, he seems like he would be not a wonderful person but I actually really liked him and he is a very powerful Necromancer. The story follows Reapers, Necromancers, Seers and several other types of supernatural beings. Its a great book I can't wait for it to come out so I can purchase!!!!!
This book was something fast and thrilling to pull me out of a reading slump, It reminds me of shutter a bit with the reaper vs necromancer, I feel like the school part of the story could be a standalone story. I loved learning about all of Lahey girls and Nyx. Overall it was a good story about the Wraith and the Banshee perfect for dark fantasy people. Can't wait for book 2!
First and foremost, thank you to NetGalley and Wattpad for the digital ARC of Relic and Ruin by Wendii Mclver for an honest review!
Relic and Ruin begins with two brothers having a falling out over the same woman thus creating the first immortal Banshee (AKA Necromancer) and Wraith (AKA Reaper). Their ancient feud continues through the ages and family members, leading to the main Hero, Erebus, and Heroine, Nyx, of the story. Not always will the Banshee and Wraith incarnate at the same time, but in this setting, they do, making them rare and highly desired by the evil war lord, Bellum. Erebus and Nyx are destined to either be mortal enemies or impassioned lovers. Through different circumstances, they learn to work together while also learning how to control their powers. Living up to his name, Bellum makes war and Erebus and Nyx work together to fight in a devastating battle. But do they defeat Bellum or does he get away to fight another day?
In the beginning, I was super excited to read Relic and Ruin. The concept interested me and I always love a kick butt, strong female. But as the story progressed, I found myself distancing from the excitement and experienced lack luster writing. McIver used characters from other classical novels, which normally I wouldn’t have a problem with, but there really needed to be development of them and their personalities so they could come alive within this story and not constantly referencing back to their origins. There was also a considerable pacing issues throughout the book. The beginning was smooth with good tempo, the middle dragged on and not much happened, the end was rushed and underdeveloped. Another issue I had was the love interest progress; repeatedly thinking it was a slow burn and an apex was just around the corner, only to discovery it was a cliff and fell out from under my feet. As a reader I could see the potential in this plot and story line which added to the frustration because of experiencing how it actually played out.
In the end, I will recommend this title to Teens and Young Adults who are on the younger and more innocent side of life. There is enough magic, family dynamic and chaos for the occasional reader and/or slower reader to keep engaged and finding enjoyment. I would also recommend this book to anyone who is into FanFic of Reaper and/or Necromancer characters.
Let me just start this by saying, this author is YOUNG! I’m aware the author is now in their 20s. But, prior to reading this book, if someone had told me that it was written by a literal 14 year old CHILD?? I would have NEVER picked this up. I’m sorry, but I wouldn’t have. So after reading and learning that she was THIS young when she wrote this, makes this story just that much more incredible.
This book hit a spot for me that no other has in a long long time. It gave me a nostalgic little spark that reminded me of being a teenager and reading fantasy for the first time. The writing was wonderful and strange, and at times, almost poetic. The characters are so dear to me already, I fell in love with them and all of their stories. She weaves everyone together so well and I loved seeing the characters interact with each other. Sometimes I was genuinely laughing out loud and other times they broke my heart.
The magic system was a complete breath of fresh air. It was dark and well built, but still kept enough obscurity to keep you guessing.
The storyline was fast paced and action packed. I found there wasn’t really a lull as the characters were always discovering something else or on the move. We got a multi-pov that really helped fill in all of the gaps at any one time, as to what each of the major parties were up to and it really kept the story going.
Now, the ending. Unlike the rest of the comment section, I LOVED the ending. Nothing like a quick ‘rip your heart out’ finale to end a book with. She knew what she was doing, and she executed it wonderfully.
I’m so glad I picked this up and I can’t wait to see what this author does next. Consider me a lifelong fan from here on out.
Oh man folks, this one was good. And I'm now like - THERE BETTER BE A SEQUEL!
So in this world, it has layers, it also has two primary mythos that for the most part either save or disrupt the world. The Reapers who protect and the Necromancers who strive for power. A curse between them has been set in motion by the originals Grim and Neco- long asleep, because they're immortal- but because of the acts against each other two brothers have altered the world. Every few thousand years the Relics are born into a new body. These Relics have to power to undo the curse and animosity between the Reapers and the Necromancers but they historically either love or hate each other on a base level. A prophecy says they save or destroy the world or each other. But most don't survive to make it into their full powers. Thus the curse live on.
we have a boy living in a sort of version of limbo or the underworld who has no memory of his previous life. Only his name- Erebus. And a locket around his neck. He's been around for thousands of years. Surrounded by a new family he's made for himself, but still lacking the knowledge of who he really was.
A girl, Nyx- a Necromancer fighting for the Reapers. Her family had historically turned against her own kind generations before- shunning her Necromantic powers- and living as a Reaper. Although Reapers still see her family as not belonging. Her family is also a bit different than regular Necromancers- all the children seem to have a secondary power. Seeing the future, controlling fire, Artifex- the ability to create life, objects from anything including characters form books.
And they're about to be on a crash course collision with each other. The plot is fantastic, so are the characters. The pace is great. I really love this and I'm praying for a sequel because I NEED MORE INFO. I absolutely loved this.
I absolutely ate this book up! Before reading, I was not expecting the Romeo and Juliet vibes that emanated from this tale of reapers and necromancers. I really enjoyed the read and the chapters were all named after different phobias which, in my opinion, kept me wanting to continue reading more than I already did. I’m so sad that I’ve already finished this book. I need more Nyx and I need more Erebus, now! However, I’m unsure if there is room for a sequel with the ending that it had. Thank you so much to NetGalley and Wendii McIver for sending me an eArc copy of this book.
I have so many thoughts about this book, y'all. To start, for the first 100 pages I was so confused. To be completely honest, I'm not sure I understand it anymore than I did then. I think what saved this book for me was the microscopic amounts of romance and the ending. But other than that, this book was pretty forgettable.