Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Fear the Reaper #1

Reaper vs. Ripper

Rate this book
History knows me by many names. Nyx, the Goddess of Night. Lilith, the Lady of Darkness. Selaphiel, the fifth angel of God. But the course of my life has been determined by my greatest mistake. I opened the gate and allowed Lucifer to fall. Booted from Heaven for my sin, I serve my penance as a reaper. By collecting history’s most twisted souls, I work to one day earn my ticket home.

Case #663

The heinous crimes of Jack the Ripper are known throughout the ages, yet his true identity remains shrouded in mystery. Scythe in hand, it falls to me to claim his soul. Who he is, I don’t care. What made him this way makes no difference. My lone goal is to ensure that he face final judgment.

Ring the bell and alert the Bobbies. It’s reaper versus Ripper in a battle for the title of the true harbinger of death.

111 pages, Paperback

Published July 14, 2020

120 people are currently reading
178 people want to read

About the author

Stacey Rourke

65 books737 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
114 (50%)
4 stars
66 (28%)
3 stars
35 (15%)
2 stars
10 (4%)
1 star
3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Madison Warner Fairbanks.
3,359 reviews487 followers
July 30, 2023
Reaper vs. Ripper by Stacey Rourke
Fear the Reaper series #1. Paranormal mystery, fantasy novella.
The Reaper is going after souls of the dead. Nyx is known by several names and stories. Here she is the Reaper, taking the souls to Lucifer and giving the victims a little piece. Souls that don’t want to found. First, Blackbeard with his many misdeeds and foul smelling history. Then
Jack the Ripper. Nyx gathers the details she needs from the victims he killed, but Jack doesn’t act as suspected and it throws Nyx off.
Ezekiel makes the triad of mixing the angels and giving the next assignment to Nyx.

🎧 audiobook narration done by Poppy Royana with a slight accent and a smoothness that is compelling and captivating.

“You can’t kill Death.”

Intriguing setup in this first book. Nyx clearly has her own issues to deal with, using snark and quips to divert, Lucifer hides something important and Ezekiel seems to be a friend and listens with compassion.
Obviously multiple layers of story here that I can’t wait to dig into with the next book.
Profile Image for Mandie.
692 reviews34 followers
August 7, 2020
This was such a fun read. It had a unique story line and really sucked me in from the beginning. I loved it!
Profile Image for Belle's Book Labyrinth.
172 reviews88 followers
July 26, 2020
Stacey Rourke has become a favorite author of mine and she always nails every book with her own take on old lore and legends. Her twists on fantasy is what I love about her books and her snarky and strong willed heroines. I have always been intrigued by the unsolved cases of Jack the Ripper and she makes her own twists on the subject with this book. The trio of fallen angles balance each other and the humor as usual is there. I really loved this story and ready to take on the next in the series!

*ARC provided for my honest review*
Profile Image for A Belle & A Book.
678 reviews27 followers
March 4, 2022
I was ensnared in the Reaper's charm from page one. This hauntingly poetic excerpt from Rourke's new series could easily be her best work yet.

Nyx is a strong, powerful; yet broken reaper. My heart ached for her. Lucifer is every bit the male chauvinist I expected him to be. The group is rounded out with Ezekiel who is the voice of reason for the trio.

I love the spin Rourke is putting on the good vs. evil, the Devil vs. God story. I cannot wait to see where this story goes.

3/4/22 Audiobook Review
5 Star Performance
I was ensnared in the Reaper's charm after narrator Poppy Royana uttered her first words as Nyx. I cannot imagine anyone else as the Reaper now. Royana is brilliant.
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
September 28, 2020
Reviewed at Paranormal-y Romantic

Reaper vs Ripper begins the Fear the Reaper series with a tale that kept me engaged in the story, and now completely committed to this particular series. I love the author’s work and once again she’s proven why she is an auto-buy for me. If you love actual history blended with fantasy, true crimes, fiction, or a touch of myths then you’ll enjoy this one.

It’s a quick read full of banter, snark, intriguing creatures, and an interesting backstory. Nyx will capture your imagination rather quickly, and her antics along with the vile soul she’s after will keep you flipping pages wondering what could possibly be next. Because of the length of Reaper vs Ripper, I don’t want to go into many details, for several reasons but mainly because this is quick and if I say too much well, that’s not a good thing.

I adored Nyx. It’s that simple. She’s an intriguing character given her part in Lucifer’s fall, and learning about her ongoing quest to earn her way back home is a concept that I will follow for as long as the series runs. I have a feeling we’re going to be learning more about all of the characters we met here… and then some. I love the fact that she is a kick-butt heroine who will do what’s necessary to complete her mission. There is humor here, the kind that is full of snark and innuendos, as well as some hints of what may be coming in the series. I had a good time in this new world and will definitely be back for more.

I own a Kindle edition of Reaper vs Ripper.
Profile Image for Autumn.
2,337 reviews47 followers
July 28, 2020
I was kind of weary on wanting to read this. Was not sure if I would have enjoyed the story line. Well, I gotta smack myself in the head and ask myself what the heck was I thinking? I literally am going to love what she writes. This story was no different. I jumped right in and had this devoured within a few hours. It was amazing and I love the twist she has added with trying to get the soul of the famous Jack the Ripper. I have never read a story like this before and I have to say it was refreshing. I really truly love the longer stories but I am getting an appreciation for these novellas as it makes me want more.
We are introduced to Nyx who I am loving the way she is all around. Her mission is to get souls but not just any old souls like ya grandma down the road but those souls that are hard to get. Those that are damaged and are evading the darkness of being held to accountable for their actions. Mr. Jack the Ripper is not going to go easy or will he? I love the fact that this is just not one of those easy going stories. There seems to be some drama with Nyx and Lucifer and what she is doing for him. I am loving the mystery surrounding the. I can not wait for book two to see what is going to happen what other damaged souls will Nyx be taking?


My favorite scene: "Blackbeard brought with him the stench of book and syphilis. Yes, it has a smell. No, it's not pleasant.)"
Profile Image for Marissa.
533 reviews
July 22, 2020
Meet Nyx, a tough, snarky reaper who has the unfortunate task of collecting some of the most unsavory souls to ever walk the Earth. In this first installment of Ms. Rourke's new series, Jack the Ripper is the next name of Nyx's list. The Ripper was an evil being when he was alive and those tendencies followed him in death as well. In order to reap the Ripper, Nyx will need a little bit of outside help from someone who is familiar with his evil ways. Good thing she's a reaper.

In addition, Ms. Rourke brings in Lucifer and Ezekiel to the party, providing readers with her own vision of a world where the three fallen angels live out their days. While the story focuses on Nyx, Lucifer and Ezekiel play supporting roles, creating an environment where the three show glimpses of their humanity. Ms. Rourke brings her trademark snark and wit with strong lead females. Her world building is off to a great start as well, whether its hanging out in the bar with the fallen angels or reimagining the world of Jack the Ripper. Great start to a new series.

I received a copy of this book from the author.
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,098 reviews29 followers
July 28, 2020
When Selaphiel opened the gates of Heaven to let Lucifer out, she never thought of the ramifications for the pair of them. Kicked out of Heaven for her actions, she now serves as a reaper. But just not any reaper, she’s after the worst of the worst, history’s monsters. Her latest case will be her hardest yet, she’s after the world’s most well known serial killer, Jack the Ripper. Using his own victims as bait, she goes after The Whitechapel Murderer, hoping to add his soul to her scythe, Selaphiel sets out to bring him in.
I have to start out by saying how much I loved this story! Ms. Rourke has done a wonderful job mixing together the story of Lucifer’s ejection from Heaven, the story of Jack the Ripper, and tossing in the story of Reapers. What a wonderful concoction this has turned out to be. I didn’t want the story to end, it is over very quickly, and I truly wanted more. I can’t wait to get more of the back story of Ezekiel, Selaphiel, and Lucifer, as well as reading about which notorious historical killer she goes after next. If you’re a fan of historical fantasy, paranormal, or historical killers, I think you’d like this story!
Profile Image for Ethan Gregory.
223 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2020
What an entry! If I can say anything for Stacey Rourke, it's that she writes some of the most memorable first installments in a series of any author I read. Reaper vs Ripper is a 'rip-roaring good time'.

When Reaper Nyx is tasked with bringing down history's biggest baddies, no soul from Blackbeard to Jack the Ripper is safe. Rourke packs a serious punch in a small package proving indeed that quality overpowers quantity any day. This is a quick read you'll devour in one sitting and leaves you begging for more. Good news, this serial-series is slated for a monthly release. Not long to wait to see what adventure awaits for Nyx next.

A bit more adult than some of Rourke's other works, with a fair share of violence and a few adult situations made this short read all the more enjoyable for me.

A laugh out loud twist on the reaper genre with a whole lot of heart and a little heat as well. Rourke has another winner on her hands and I can't wait for installment two! Looking for a quick read to perk up your summer TBR? Don't sleep on this series!
Profile Image for Jae.
871 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2024
Cast from heaven for opening the gate and allowing Lucifer access to the mortal realm, Nyx now serves as a reaper, hoping to eventually atone for her sin and be allowed to return to heaven. Her latest case has her going toe-to-toe with none other than Jack the Ripper. Nyx doesn't know his true identity and she doesn't care. All she wants is to purge his taint from the earth and consign him to the punishment he deserves.

This was an interesting story, although a mite too short for my liking. Not a whole lot of world building, and what we did learn was mostly through one flashback of Nyx letting Lucifer talk her into opening the gate for him. She's a compelling character. I was disappointed with the fact that we first meet Nyx as she's reaping the soul of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, and that scene was longer and more detailed than her ultimate showdown with Jack the Ripper.

The story had its drawbacks, but I found it enjoyable and would read more in the series. Four stars.
Profile Image for Diane Ehlers.
Author 5 books39 followers
April 27, 2021
I knew I was going to love this the moment I picked it up! My expectations were met and then some. The details easily pull you in, the world intriguing you to turn the pages as fast as you can.

I haven't read many reaper stories but I can tell you this isn't your basic one. The MC gets assignments for souls that are harder for other reapers to collect. Why you may ask. Because she doesn't feel the pain and suffering that they caused onto others, like the other reapers would. You'll have to read to find out why that is.

Overall, the MC was just as spunky and sassy as I expected from the author. Along with a dash of humor, even got me to laugh out loud at one moment (which is a rare occasion for me when it comes to books). With the bit of history, the lore of how the MC became a reaper, and ghostly aspects I'm excited to continue this series!
Profile Image for Cindy Fong.
2,026 reviews
July 5, 2020
A fallen angel walks into a bar....

No really, after reaping souls Nyx or Selaphiel, heads to her home above Death and Taxes with her scythe of evil souls she reaps. This was a fun start to a new series by Stacey Rourke where we meet the evilest of known people, but through the eyes of those they hurt. Along the way, we readers get to build on the relationship between Nyx, Ezekiel and Lucifer and their roles as fallen angels and their own humanity. It is a fast paced read, with depth and the right amount of snark thrown in for a chuckle or two.
Profile Image for Paranormal Tendencies.
254 reviews20 followers
July 7, 2020
Nyx is a reaper collecting the souls of the most heinous murders history has known. She reaps the soul no one else wants to pay penance for wanting free will like the humans. Now she’s tasked to reap the most vicious killer man may have ever known. Can she reap the soul of Jack the Ripper?
What a fascinating story!
Stacey Rourke has this knack for writing strong female characters. I really like Nyx. She’s tortured, but determined to pay her penance. Her story promises to be a good one!
4 stars for Reaper vs Ripper!
Profile Image for BobaFett114.
1,948 reviews3 followers
March 10, 2021
Very well written!

This is a short book, but it definitely doesn't leave you wanting. Nyx and Lucifer fell together and are now stuck on Earth. Nyx reaps horrible souls and They are his eyes through Lucifer's body. The book jumps right in and it isn't u til the middle of the book that you get a clear understanding of everything. I liked this approach to the Ripper murders, talking with the victims. Nyx does it delicately. I'm a little concerned by Lucifer thkugh, but I guess we'll find out. This book ends in a cliff, where it leads to her next case.
934 reviews
January 23, 2024
This is a great start for a new series for me. Selaphiel is a reaper trying to earn her way back to heaven by harvesting history’s most twisted souls. These souls have avoided capture until Selaphiel is tasked with their capture. Selaphiel is in this mess because she opened the gates and let Lucifer fall. Now their fates are tied together. Selaphiel used to think this was a good thing. Interested in seeing if she can make her way back and what souls she will have to deal with along the way.
Profile Image for Beth Orsborn .
157 reviews2 followers
August 5, 2020
Selaphiel also known as Nyx to the common folk became a reaper because of one thing....love and of course to make up for her sins. One of the first archangels Selaphiel fell hard for Lucifer and did the adventurous with him to feel alive but at a cost, her wings. So to make up for her sins and his, she reaps souls and he bares their sins to make up for their misdeeds until they find their way, but at what cost?
Profile Image for Shayne.
562 reviews4 followers
August 24, 2020
Jack the Ripper vs Nyx

Wow. I wasn't sure what to think going in. A reaper who was an archangel that pretended to be a goddess and unlocked the gates, allowing as well as joining Lucifer in the fall? Despite all that it is not at all a religious text. If anything Selaphiel/ Nyx is irreverent and it charms me.

There's such detail in the history of Jack without actually identifying him. And the handling of it was intense. I can't wait to read book two
Profile Image for Cassie.
665 reviews3 followers
Read
August 25, 2021
I’m not sure how to rate this book. On one hand, I absolutely LOVED the idea of this book. The archangel who opened the gate for Lucifer to fall is now a reaper for the most psychotic of souls - in this book, it’s Blackbeard and Jack the Ripper. On the other hand, I needed so much more out of it. The book is only 113 pages. If it would have flushed everything out, it could have easily been 300+ pages.
Profile Image for Debbie Chittenden.
1,096 reviews
October 29, 2021
A short story about a reaper and her charges. It's cleverly written and the vengeance for the hurt souls is priceless. The back story, though, is the real kicker! The most famous fallen angel and apparently his best friend with benefits. Love and trust truly do suck. The idea that Nyx will have to figure Luce out, I think plays into her salvation and forgiveness. This shall be interesting.
Profile Image for Fawn.
560 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2022
good beginning

A quick read, it provides a good opening to what is hopefully a series. With the current ideology, theme, and romance of hades and Lucifer being actual good guys it is nice to see a story or two where the bad guy might actually be a bad guy. Only time will tell.

This story is well written, has good character growth started, and no typos that I can remember seeing.
Profile Image for Tammy.
996 reviews8 followers
November 19, 2023
Nyx is the former angel Selaphiel. As a punishment she is sent to earth and serves as one the grim reapers. Nyx usually takes on the worst of humans. The book opens with her reaping the soul of Blackbeard. The main case in this novella is Jack the Ripper. I definitely plan on reading more of the series. I look forward to learning more about Nyx and her relationship with Lucifer and Ezekiel. I recommend this novella to anyone looking for a quick urban fantasy read.
Profile Image for Kim.
833 reviews3 followers
July 27, 2020
Stacey Rourke did it again. This book was great. I love the short stories that lead to the next book and the next. Cause when you get to the end of it you really just want more. I don't give spoilers. Nyx is a strong reaper who will do anything for Lucifer. You can tell though she is broken. Good vs Evil. Revenge is sweet..
Profile Image for Kira.
1,618 reviews
July 27, 2020
Although this may be a short read as a novella, Reaper vs. Ripper brings readers right into the action and packs a punch with tons of historical lore and humorous banter! Nyx is a great character to follow and the other characters included add intrigue to the tale. I was completely hooked and I look forward to the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Cory Cravens.
182 reviews1 follower
August 21, 2020
Good Start

I enjoyed reading this book. It offers a different take on reapers and surprisingly the devil. The main character has some issues with a certain boyfriend. She also has the job of reaping souls that don't want to pass on. Usually notoriously evil ones. All in all a good first try.
Profile Image for Liz.
749 reviews
February 8, 2021
Review covers all 4 books:

These were very fun - more of novellas than full books. Nyx is a delight and I would have read more - there's no shortage of historical figures evil enough to get a visit from her.

Always a pleasant surprise when a Kindle Unlimited book you found via social media ad ends up being worth reading.
Profile Image for Samantha.
1,887 reviews40 followers
June 29, 2021
It is always a joy to start a new Stacey Rourke series. I was instantly pulled into this new world and thoroughly entertained by these new characters. I also loved the blend of fiction with historical people and situations. Rourke did a great job of blending humor with the deeper side of things for Nyx and Luce in this story. I am already looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Traci Otte.
540 reviews9 followers
July 30, 2021
Unique reaper story!

I've read other reaper tales, but none of them have been like this - a former angel reaping difficult real-life villains. The details in this book about the Ripper are chilling. There's a lot of action and character devs as well as an interesting cat I'm hoping we learn more about in future books.
Profile Image for Sarah.
262 reviews2 followers
March 12, 2022
I absolutely love everything I've ever read by this author. Her world building and character development are top notch. Nix is such a great character because she's totally badass but still flawed and that makes things so much more relatable. the narration was fantastic and I truly enjoyed listening to this story.
Profile Image for Mary Mousseau.
10 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2023
This was exactly what i hoped it would be. A sassy strong heroine, a man friend who may or may not be what he seems, and a cat who is as sassy as the person she owns.
The story reads easily and quickly. I was disappointed when it ended and have already downloaded the next book. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys this genre.
Profile Image for Beverly.
272 reviews48 followers
July 27, 2020
This book had it all. a badass heroine, an equally intriguing bad guy. fallen angels penance. It held me from the first word. Jack the ripper is one of my favorite unsolved murders and to read him in any book is just awesome I highly recommend I cant wait to see where this series goes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.