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The Rarkyn Trilogy #1
The Rarkyn's Familiar
An orphan bent on revenge. A monster searching for freedom. A forbidden pact that binds their fates together.
Lyss has heard her father’s screams; smelled the iron-tang of his blood. She’s witnessed his execution.
And plotted her revenge.
Then a violent encounter traps Lyss in a blood-pact with a rarkyn from the otherworld and imbues her with the monster’s forbidden magic. A magic that will erode her sanity. To break the pact, she and the rarkyn must journey to the heart of the Empire. All that stands in their way are the mountains and the Empire’s soldiers—and each other.
But horrors await them on the road, horrors even rarkyns fear. The most terrifying monster isn’t the one Lyss travels with...
It’s the one that’s awoken inside her.
Monsters of a feather flock together
2023 Sir Julius Vogel Winner for Best Youth Novel
2022 Foreward INDIES Book of the Year Bronze Winner for Young Adult Fiction
2022 Aurealis Award Finalist for Best Young Adult Novel
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Best Friendship)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Prettiest Prose)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Side Character MVP)
2022 Indies Today Finalist
Lyss has heard her father’s screams; smelled the iron-tang of his blood. She’s witnessed his execution.
And plotted her revenge.
Then a violent encounter traps Lyss in a blood-pact with a rarkyn from the otherworld and imbues her with the monster’s forbidden magic. A magic that will erode her sanity. To break the pact, she and the rarkyn must journey to the heart of the Empire. All that stands in their way are the mountains and the Empire’s soldiers—and each other.
But horrors await them on the road, horrors even rarkyns fear. The most terrifying monster isn’t the one Lyss travels with...
It’s the one that’s awoken inside her.
Monsters of a feather flock together
2023 Sir Julius Vogel Winner for Best Youth Novel
2022 Foreward INDIES Book of the Year Bronze Winner for Young Adult Fiction
2022 Aurealis Award Finalist for Best Young Adult Novel
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Best Friendship)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Prettiest Prose)
2022 Indie Ink Award Winner (Side Character MVP)
2022 Indies Today Finalist
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2022
24 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Nikky Lee
26 books90 followersNikky Lee is an award-winning author who grew up as a barefoot 90s kid in Perth, Western Australia on Whadjuk Noongar Country. She now lives in Aotearoa New Zealand with a husband, a dog, and a couch potato cat. In her free time, she writes speculative fiction, often burning the candle at both ends to explore fantastic worlds, mine asteroids and meet wizards. She's had over two dozen stories published in magazines, anthologies and on the radio.
Her fantasy, sci-fi and horror fiction has won three Australian Aurealis Awards, two New Zealand Sir Julius Vogel Awards, Bronze at the Foreward INDIES Book of the Year, three Indie Ink Awards, and a Ditmar Award for Best New Talent.
Her fantasy, sci-fi and horror fiction has won three Australian Aurealis Awards, two New Zealand Sir Julius Vogel Awards, Bronze at the Foreward INDIES Book of the Year, three Indie Ink Awards, and a Ditmar Award for Best New Talent.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 20, 2022
1st read;
I was blown away by this book. It has the closeness of a magical-psychic-bond without the tropes of a romance. Instead, that closeness and friendship is used to work through character arcs and themes of letting people in.
2nd read:
I originally gave this book 4 stars. Months later, I'm still thinking about it and it was just as good the second time. So I've upgraded it to 5 stars.
Check out my full video review at:
https://youtu.be/Ds-Kr7YsD78
Lyss is training in magic and the sword to become strong enough to kill her father’s murderer. Skaar is a magical monster who has recently escaped from captivity. When they collide, they accidentally get tangled up in a blood pact that both forces them to stick together and is likely to drive them insane.
I think the moment when I fully realized how magnificent this book is this: we are introduced to a new POV character. He is likeable and relatable. Then we figure out that he is our villain. And his Point of View chapters throughout the book were utilized just as well as that first one, both to help us understand him and to up the stakes for the protagonists.
This book is rich with character development and dramatic moments. The emotional moments with the characters are wonderfully balanced with action scenes and a quest. I loved every scene from beginning to end. Even more impressively, this book wraps up nicely while also leaving room for an engaging sequel.
Thanks to The Parliament House and Netgalley for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.
I was blown away by this book. It has the closeness of a magical-psychic-bond without the tropes of a romance. Instead, that closeness and friendship is used to work through character arcs and themes of letting people in.
2nd read:
I originally gave this book 4 stars. Months later, I'm still thinking about it and it was just as good the second time. So I've upgraded it to 5 stars.
Check out my full video review at:
https://youtu.be/Ds-Kr7YsD78
Lyss is training in magic and the sword to become strong enough to kill her father’s murderer. Skaar is a magical monster who has recently escaped from captivity. When they collide, they accidentally get tangled up in a blood pact that both forces them to stick together and is likely to drive them insane.
I think the moment when I fully realized how magnificent this book is this: we are introduced to a new POV character. He is likeable and relatable. Then we figure out that he is our villain. And his Point of View chapters throughout the book were utilized just as well as that first one, both to help us understand him and to up the stakes for the protagonists.
This book is rich with character development and dramatic moments. The emotional moments with the characters are wonderfully balanced with action scenes and a quest. I loved every scene from beginning to end. Even more impressively, this book wraps up nicely while also leaving room for an engaging sequel.
Thanks to The Parliament House and Netgalley for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.
June 11, 2024
Miss Lee, take as long as you need to write that second part… But please, I need it.
Did you know this book has been in the making since 2006!? Funny enough, that’s when I was born too. Not to be dramatic, but it’s almost like I’ve been waiting my whole life for this.
Most of the arc’s I get (thank you, NetGalley) are debuts, like The Rarkyn’s Familiar. And with most, you kind of notice that… But this one pleasantly surprised me.
The beautiful writing has enough YA in it to suck you in its fast-paced plot and has enough charm and allure to make the world feel as magical as it is.
The world has a dark-fairytale vibe to it.
Every monster, aetherling and magic was strangely unique and balanced. (My favorite aetherling, besides Skaar, is probably the Smarokk. They are the bugs and critters of the Otherworld: Small, perhaps a bit stupid, but mostly adorable with their little shadowy figures and piercing lights for eyes.)
It also lays its seeds for the later parts in the trilogy (which, off topic, I can’t wait for!) where, I’m guessing, politics and higher beings will be at play!
The world will draw you in, for sure, but it’s characters will make you stay. Lyss is sweet and fierce and couldn’t be a better match for the rarkyn, who is kind of a softie behind all that trauma.
Another thing this book does extremely well is multiple pov’s. I like my books with multiple perspectives (especially from the main crew), but this book took it a step further and makes you feel for its villain, who is genuinely tragic.
These characters form real complicated relationships with each other and it makes you feel for them. Even if it goes against your moral code or the other characters you’re rooting for.
The Con
The only thing Nikky Lee wasn’t prepared for was my own stupidity. When I read YA I like to tune the working part of my brain out and just gobble up toddler-vocab words. Nikky Lee forces you to think, to put the pieces together yourself and pay attention.
And now please, GIVE ME THAT SEQUAL!
TW: Flashback on-page parent death, flashback on-page sibling death, lots of gore, beheading, injury, lots of blood, (no major character) death.
(Thank you Nikky Lee, the publisher and NetGalley for this amazing copy of The Rarkyn’s Familiar!)
Did you know this book has been in the making since 2006!? Funny enough, that’s when I was born too. Not to be dramatic, but it’s almost like I’ve been waiting my whole life for this.
Most of the arc’s I get (thank you, NetGalley) are debuts, like The Rarkyn’s Familiar. And with most, you kind of notice that… But this one pleasantly surprised me.
Lyss accidentally bonds herself to a rarkyn, an aetherling, a monster. What she doesn’t know is that he’s lost everyone dear to him too young, too. And when they find themselves trapped together, all they want is out.
A story of a girl and a monster trying to break their pact, whilst being chased by worse.
The beautiful writing has enough YA in it to suck you in its fast-paced plot and has enough charm and allure to make the world feel as magical as it is.
The world has a dark-fairytale vibe to it.
Every monster, aetherling and magic was strangely unique and balanced. (My favorite aetherling, besides Skaar, is probably the Smarokk. They are the bugs and critters of the Otherworld: Small, perhaps a bit stupid, but mostly adorable with their little shadowy figures and piercing lights for eyes.)
It also lays its seeds for the later parts in the trilogy (which, off topic, I can’t wait for!) where, I’m guessing, politics and higher beings will be at play!
The world will draw you in, for sure, but it’s characters will make you stay. Lyss is sweet and fierce and couldn’t be a better match for the rarkyn, who is kind of a softie behind all that trauma.
Another thing this book does extremely well is multiple pov’s. I like my books with multiple perspectives (especially from the main crew), but this book took it a step further and makes you feel for its villain, who is genuinely tragic.
These characters form real complicated relationships with each other and it makes you feel for them. Even if it goes against your moral code or the other characters you’re rooting for.
The Con
The only thing Nikky Lee wasn’t prepared for was my own stupidity. When I read YA I like to tune the working part of my brain out and just gobble up toddler-vocab words. Nikky Lee forces you to think, to put the pieces together yourself and pay attention.
And now please, GIVE ME THAT SEQUAL!
TW: Flashback on-page parent death, flashback on-page sibling death, lots of gore, beheading, injury, lots of blood, (no major character) death.
(Thank you Nikky Lee, the publisher and NetGalley for this amazing copy of The Rarkyn’s Familiar!)
June 15, 2023
This is a tale about a journey. If you choose to go on this journey, be aware that this isn’t familiar territory. The world may be similar to our Earth (in the typical fantasy-medieval ways), but it is a world of different peoples and geography and it’s magic component is fully imagined.
"He drew four runes on it with the twig. Then he handed it to Hane. “Copy them.” Hane studied the runes for a moment before carving his own set of four below Archer’s in swift, confident strokes of the branch. “Again,” Archer said. Hane copied the runes out once more. “Good.” Archer pointed at the first rune. “Tyth is the anchor. Always cast this one first.” He indicated the following two runes. “These two are the binds. And this”—he tapped the last rune with his foot: a line with two spines coming off it—“this is the tail.” Hane looked up at Archer. “The tail to what?” he asked. “To a casting that can down a rarkyn.” Hane gaped at him. “I can’t control a rarkyn.” Archer snorted. “We’re a ways off controlling it yet, boy. This is just to catch"
And
"He wound his hugrokar tight, reached for the Otherworld—Reythr give me strength—and pulled. Heat seared through his skull, down his arms, through his chest and into his bones. His muscles screamed, sockets and joints throbbing. His head spun. He shrieked. Then quiet. Stillness. The berigan shuddered under him. Skaar opened his eyes to the Aether’s swirling fog. He’d done it. He’d pulled the berigan back to the Otherworld. Back where it belonged. He relaxed his grip and slid from the aetherling’s back."
"All rarkyn have hugrokar. That was what Rark had said. What might hugrokar be like in a pack? Would the night appear as day? Their senses would extend for miles, of that she was sure; each mind fortifying the others. Was that how they withstood the Aether’s raw power when they crossed into the Otherworld?"
And there is the “aether” as well.
"“Might fall,” Rark suddenly blurted. Lyss stopped, heart thudding, legs turning heavy. “Into the Otherworld? Like a Fever?” Rarkyn nodded. “Deep in, and no coming back.” He ruffled his wings and lifted a hand to his head. “Aether eats at mind if I stay in for too long. Mistakes can happen. Is why we have hugrokar, helps keep us alert.”"
Many “humans” have magic, but it will not always align with your expectations. Each human and each “other” creature may have a different amount or be able to use it in a different way. This leads to unexpected results…some catastrophic.
"The sigil thumped to the earth, runes inert. Steeling myself, I worked two new sets of runes. The first, another ward to bolster Issacs’s trap; the second, a casting to move the metal cuff to my quarry. My casting wrapped around the cuff and it flew into the air, straight for the kit. It dodged. Isaac and I cursed as one. The kit tore through Issacs’s circle, shredding it like paper, and I gasped as the full brunt of its power slammed into my encasing ward. Sepp, it was strong. I abandoned my casting on the cuff, focusing everything on my ward. With every kick, punch, and raking of talons, my own gift waned, shrinking inside me as I burned through my power to hold it back. A third circle shimmered up around mine, its form patchy, bare of magic in places. I looked over at Isaac to find his face white and veins popping down his neck. He was lucky to have enough Aether reserves left to conjure anything at all."
Be warned, in order to “like” this book, you may have to adjust your expectations. Author Lee has put a lot into creating this unique world. Don’t be disappointed that it all isn’t easy resolved in this single volume.
3.5*
"He drew four runes on it with the twig. Then he handed it to Hane. “Copy them.” Hane studied the runes for a moment before carving his own set of four below Archer’s in swift, confident strokes of the branch. “Again,” Archer said. Hane copied the runes out once more. “Good.” Archer pointed at the first rune. “Tyth is the anchor. Always cast this one first.” He indicated the following two runes. “These two are the binds. And this”—he tapped the last rune with his foot: a line with two spines coming off it—“this is the tail.” Hane looked up at Archer. “The tail to what?” he asked. “To a casting that can down a rarkyn.” Hane gaped at him. “I can’t control a rarkyn.” Archer snorted. “We’re a ways off controlling it yet, boy. This is just to catch"
And
"He wound his hugrokar tight, reached for the Otherworld—Reythr give me strength—and pulled. Heat seared through his skull, down his arms, through his chest and into his bones. His muscles screamed, sockets and joints throbbing. His head spun. He shrieked. Then quiet. Stillness. The berigan shuddered under him. Skaar opened his eyes to the Aether’s swirling fog. He’d done it. He’d pulled the berigan back to the Otherworld. Back where it belonged. He relaxed his grip and slid from the aetherling’s back."
"All rarkyn have hugrokar. That was what Rark had said. What might hugrokar be like in a pack? Would the night appear as day? Their senses would extend for miles, of that she was sure; each mind fortifying the others. Was that how they withstood the Aether’s raw power when they crossed into the Otherworld?"
And there is the “aether” as well.
"“Might fall,” Rark suddenly blurted. Lyss stopped, heart thudding, legs turning heavy. “Into the Otherworld? Like a Fever?” Rarkyn nodded. “Deep in, and no coming back.” He ruffled his wings and lifted a hand to his head. “Aether eats at mind if I stay in for too long. Mistakes can happen. Is why we have hugrokar, helps keep us alert.”"
Many “humans” have magic, but it will not always align with your expectations. Each human and each “other” creature may have a different amount or be able to use it in a different way. This leads to unexpected results…some catastrophic.
"The sigil thumped to the earth, runes inert. Steeling myself, I worked two new sets of runes. The first, another ward to bolster Issacs’s trap; the second, a casting to move the metal cuff to my quarry. My casting wrapped around the cuff and it flew into the air, straight for the kit. It dodged. Isaac and I cursed as one. The kit tore through Issacs’s circle, shredding it like paper, and I gasped as the full brunt of its power slammed into my encasing ward. Sepp, it was strong. I abandoned my casting on the cuff, focusing everything on my ward. With every kick, punch, and raking of talons, my own gift waned, shrinking inside me as I burned through my power to hold it back. A third circle shimmered up around mine, its form patchy, bare of magic in places. I looked over at Isaac to find his face white and veins popping down his neck. He was lucky to have enough Aether reserves left to conjure anything at all."
Be warned, in order to “like” this book, you may have to adjust your expectations. Author Lee has put a lot into creating this unique world. Don’t be disappointed that it all isn’t easy resolved in this single volume.
3.5*
October 10, 2022
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is YA high fantasy done right. A fast-paced story with rich worldbuilding, compelling characters, intriguing fantastical creatures and a lot of magic. Oh, and no worries about cringy romance here, it’s all about the friendships and I was SO here for that!
This story revolves around Lyss, a scarred but strong young orphan girl who is out for revenge. But her plans are quickly disturbed when she accidentally ends up in a blood pact with a rarkyn from the Otherworld. They reluctantly decide to work together and set out on a quest to break the bond and preserve Lyss’ sanity. But their journey is an arduous one and they are faced with horrors and threats from all sides… even from inside themselves.
Now, this may be a YA story, but I really appreciated that the author doesn’t hold the reader’s hand here. We are dropped straight into the middle of the action and are expected to slowly pick up on all the intricacies of this world on our own. I honestly think the worldbuilding is up to par with some of the most popular adult fantasy series, because there was so much rich lore and history, plus multiple well thought-out magic systems. The unfamiliar terminology might feel a bit disorienting at first, but if you trust the author, it will all click into place as you read on. That said, I would have liked a glossary for reference, because I think that would’ve helped with my immersion at the start of the story.
My favourite aspect of the story were the characters though. There is a lot of depth and complexity to all of them and I loved that we got to know them intimately, both in present time and through some flashbacks.
Lyss was an absolute delight to follow and she is exactly the type of strong female character that I will always have a soft spot for. I particularly loved her complex relationship with the rarkyn, because it was fascinating to see how their bond really rocks both of their worldviews and makes them reconsider all their beliefs.
We also read from a couple of other perspectives, including the rarkyn and our main antagonist, which added a lot of extra depth to the story. The whole discussion around what truly makes a monster was SO well done and I think this story has one of the most interesting takes on a ‘villain’ character. The themes of loss, grief, redemption and morality are beautifully woven into this story, without ever feeling on-the-nose or becoming too dark and heavy.
The only little quibble I had with the character development was that I sometimes really had to suspend my disbelief for how quickly characters progressed or picked up on new skills/magic. That said, the rest of the story was just so engaging and fun that it didn’t hinder my enjoyment all that much.
Overall, I just had an absolute blast with this story and I will be eagerly awaiting book 2!
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a fast-paced fantasy featuring a strong female character, intriguing worldbuilding, amazing action scenes, incredible platonic and familial relationships and a unique take on good vs. evil. I can guarantee you won’t be able to put this one down.
This story revolves around Lyss, a scarred but strong young orphan girl who is out for revenge. But her plans are quickly disturbed when she accidentally ends up in a blood pact with a rarkyn from the Otherworld. They reluctantly decide to work together and set out on a quest to break the bond and preserve Lyss’ sanity. But their journey is an arduous one and they are faced with horrors and threats from all sides… even from inside themselves.
Now, this may be a YA story, but I really appreciated that the author doesn’t hold the reader’s hand here. We are dropped straight into the middle of the action and are expected to slowly pick up on all the intricacies of this world on our own. I honestly think the worldbuilding is up to par with some of the most popular adult fantasy series, because there was so much rich lore and history, plus multiple well thought-out magic systems. The unfamiliar terminology might feel a bit disorienting at first, but if you trust the author, it will all click into place as you read on. That said, I would have liked a glossary for reference, because I think that would’ve helped with my immersion at the start of the story.
My favourite aspect of the story were the characters though. There is a lot of depth and complexity to all of them and I loved that we got to know them intimately, both in present time and through some flashbacks.
Lyss was an absolute delight to follow and she is exactly the type of strong female character that I will always have a soft spot for. I particularly loved her complex relationship with the rarkyn, because it was fascinating to see how their bond really rocks both of their worldviews and makes them reconsider all their beliefs.
We also read from a couple of other perspectives, including the rarkyn and our main antagonist, which added a lot of extra depth to the story. The whole discussion around what truly makes a monster was SO well done and I think this story has one of the most interesting takes on a ‘villain’ character. The themes of loss, grief, redemption and morality are beautifully woven into this story, without ever feeling on-the-nose or becoming too dark and heavy.
The only little quibble I had with the character development was that I sometimes really had to suspend my disbelief for how quickly characters progressed or picked up on new skills/magic. That said, the rest of the story was just so engaging and fun that it didn’t hinder my enjoyment all that much.
Overall, I just had an absolute blast with this story and I will be eagerly awaiting book 2!
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a fast-paced fantasy featuring a strong female character, intriguing worldbuilding, amazing action scenes, incredible platonic and familial relationships and a unique take on good vs. evil. I can guarantee you won’t be able to put this one down.
Read
October 12, 2022Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✻(4,25 out of 5 stars)
Full review text: https://vueltaspodcast.wordpress.com/...
Interview with Nikky Lee: https://vueltaspodcast.wordpress.com/...
The Rarkyn's Familiar is the initial book in the Rarkyn's trilogy by the Aussie author Nikky Lee. This book is basically YA High Fantasy well done, with really intriguing worldbuilding, excellent characters, interesting creatures, and vivid action scenes. In contraposition with other YA books, this doesn't feature any kind of romance, only friendship. I read it as a part of a buddy read in the Indie Accords discord, which I think also helped with the experience and the enjoyment.
The story is focused on Lyss, a young orphan girl who is seeking vengeance, but whose plans get truncated once she accidentally gets bonded by blood with a rarkyn from the Otherworld. As it is commonly believed that bonding with a rarkyn will end up draining Lyss' sanity, they reluctantly decide to work together, going on a quest to break this bond, starting a difficult journey where they will also be persecuted by other interested parties.
We get dropped in the middle of the action, being this a story that starts with a really confusing scene; and a world that is built on its own. Small details here and there will help us to start building our own mental image of it, as we can pick up on the small expressions used in the language. Despite being the initial point of a series, Lee doesn't waste lines on info-dumping, instead of that, she introduces details about the world and how the magic works. It is true that it can feel disorienting sometimes, but as I learned with other books, if you just trust the author, everything will click at the end.
This is a heavy character-based story, being Lyss the principal POV, but with other of the characters getting the spotlight sometimes, especially the antagonist, something that helps us to understand the motivations and the expectations behind his actions. Lyss is a really strong female character, who has started a path to vengeance after suffering a big loss; and after bonding with the rarkyn, we can see how the needed relationship develops between them. There are also flashbacks, both from Lynn and from the rarkyn which allow us to empathize with both of them. Some letters that appear in the book, despite it also introduce a confusing factor until you realize who wrote them; but it also brings more interesting information that later will drive us to a bright moment.
If there's an aspect I didn't like about this book, is the lack of development of the secondary characters. Outside of the antagonist, Lyss, and the rarkyn, the rest of them are really plain. Also, the bond between Lyss and the rarkyn develops extremely fast, and she acquires proficiency in using the magic really really fast; which is something you would expect would need more time.
I really enjoyed this book, and it is a great debut for Nikky Lee. There are several original elements that made me enjoy more the book; especially the creatures are nothing like something I knew before. Themes like grief and anger are treated in an excellent way, and I personally loved the run against craziness that Lyss had. Now, I can just wait until the second book of The Rarkyn's Trilogy is released!
Full review text: https://vueltaspodcast.wordpress.com/...
Interview with Nikky Lee: https://vueltaspodcast.wordpress.com/...
The Rarkyn's Familiar is the initial book in the Rarkyn's trilogy by the Aussie author Nikky Lee. This book is basically YA High Fantasy well done, with really intriguing worldbuilding, excellent characters, interesting creatures, and vivid action scenes. In contraposition with other YA books, this doesn't feature any kind of romance, only friendship. I read it as a part of a buddy read in the Indie Accords discord, which I think also helped with the experience and the enjoyment.
The story is focused on Lyss, a young orphan girl who is seeking vengeance, but whose plans get truncated once she accidentally gets bonded by blood with a rarkyn from the Otherworld. As it is commonly believed that bonding with a rarkyn will end up draining Lyss' sanity, they reluctantly decide to work together, going on a quest to break this bond, starting a difficult journey where they will also be persecuted by other interested parties.
We get dropped in the middle of the action, being this a story that starts with a really confusing scene; and a world that is built on its own. Small details here and there will help us to start building our own mental image of it, as we can pick up on the small expressions used in the language. Despite being the initial point of a series, Lee doesn't waste lines on info-dumping, instead of that, she introduces details about the world and how the magic works. It is true that it can feel disorienting sometimes, but as I learned with other books, if you just trust the author, everything will click at the end.
This is a heavy character-based story, being Lyss the principal POV, but with other of the characters getting the spotlight sometimes, especially the antagonist, something that helps us to understand the motivations and the expectations behind his actions. Lyss is a really strong female character, who has started a path to vengeance after suffering a big loss; and after bonding with the rarkyn, we can see how the needed relationship develops between them. There are also flashbacks, both from Lynn and from the rarkyn which allow us to empathize with both of them. Some letters that appear in the book, despite it also introduce a confusing factor until you realize who wrote them; but it also brings more interesting information that later will drive us to a bright moment.
If there's an aspect I didn't like about this book, is the lack of development of the secondary characters. Outside of the antagonist, Lyss, and the rarkyn, the rest of them are really plain. Also, the bond between Lyss and the rarkyn develops extremely fast, and she acquires proficiency in using the magic really really fast; which is something you would expect would need more time.
I really enjoyed this book, and it is a great debut for Nikky Lee. There are several original elements that made me enjoy more the book; especially the creatures are nothing like something I knew before. Themes like grief and anger are treated in an excellent way, and I personally loved the run against craziness that Lyss had. Now, I can just wait until the second book of The Rarkyn's Trilogy is released!
September 4, 2024
This is an action-packed adventure. As soon as you start the first chapter, wild things are happening. It takes a while to understand the terminology, but the magic system is unique. You have to keep reading to understand what different things mean. This isn’t a criticism just something to be aware of. My one little quibble is the use of “gods and ginndir.” I felt it was overly said in the beginning of the book. Some of those terms just drove me crazy for some reason.
I was hooked on the letters that were inserted throughout the book. Who are these people? How do they factor into the plot?
However this is a story centered around Lyss, a human, and Skaar, a rarkyn, which is some kind of griffin-like creature with hands. They are the heart here. Lyss is very annoying at first. But NL takes her time to develop their relationship. So as much as I wished for Lyss to just accept things, I appreciated the worldbuilding needed to establish things for them.
There are other good characters along the way. The villain is complex and we slowly see what his motivation really is. I also liked Hane and Brin. The journey of Hane’s character is very intriguing and I look forward to see what’s next in his path.
There are unusual creatures in this world. One in particular is a shuck, which is a floating dog’s head that is quite strong and agile. I couldn’t help but think about Zero from The Nightmare Before Christmas story. But these aren’t friendly, tail wagging creatures. And there are other cool ones too.
So who really is the monster?
I was hooked on the letters that were inserted throughout the book. Who are these people? How do they factor into the plot?
However this is a story centered around Lyss, a human, and Skaar, a rarkyn, which is some kind of griffin-like creature with hands. They are the heart here. Lyss is very annoying at first. But NL takes her time to develop their relationship. So as much as I wished for Lyss to just accept things, I appreciated the worldbuilding needed to establish things for them.
There are other good characters along the way. The villain is complex and we slowly see what his motivation really is. I also liked Hane and Brin. The journey of Hane’s character is very intriguing and I look forward to see what’s next in his path.
There are unusual creatures in this world. One in particular is a shuck, which is a floating dog’s head that is quite strong and agile. I couldn’t help but think about Zero from The Nightmare Before Christmas story. But these aren’t friendly, tail wagging creatures. And there are other cool ones too.
So who really is the monster?
April 13, 2022
What makes a monster, a monster?
This is a super unique, incredible fantasy full of magic, strange creatures, friendship and violence. The worldbuilding in this story is top notch. The magical systems are well thought out and complex.
Humans vs Creatures. Creatures who run on the substance that fills the Otherworld and infuses otherworldly monsters who only exist to consume life. The rarkyn are creatures that live in both worlds. Creatures with a strange magic that allows them to slip between worlds – as long as they can control their power. Humans also have magic – a different kind of magic – one with complicated spells that are cast with runes and this magic is tightly controlled by the mage-run military. The military who are hell bent on keeping control. But regular townsfolk can use rune magic as well, it means control is a slippery slope, turning some members of the military violent. The need for control is absolute. Lyss, a human girl, has no magic but is forced to witness a horror that consumes her mind. She will learn to fight so that her all consuming desire to hunt down the one who killed her father is sated. When events cause one of the rarkyn to blood-bond with Lyss, both of their lives change forever. The rarkyn is being hunted. The blood-bond will destroy Lyss’s mind. So the race is on to sever the blood-bond so that Lyss will survive and the rarkyn can escape.
Lyss’s anger and heartache are palpable. The rarkyn’s desire for home and safety are also palpable. It puts them at odds but they are stuck together. And the longer the bond holds, the more of Lyss’s mind she will lose, turning her into the very monster she wants to slay. A killer.
This is a gripping story. A clever tale spun by a terrific writer of horror and high fantasy. Come for the world building, stay for the story of hope and loss, of family, and friendship and love. A story where the two main characters are connected through blood and a burgeoning if at times volatile friendship (not bound by a romantic love but one of family). This is a terrific story and I’m looking forward to continuing Lyss and Skaar’s journey in book two.
This is a super unique, incredible fantasy full of magic, strange creatures, friendship and violence. The worldbuilding in this story is top notch. The magical systems are well thought out and complex.
Humans vs Creatures. Creatures who run on the substance that fills the Otherworld and infuses otherworldly monsters who only exist to consume life. The rarkyn are creatures that live in both worlds. Creatures with a strange magic that allows them to slip between worlds – as long as they can control their power. Humans also have magic – a different kind of magic – one with complicated spells that are cast with runes and this magic is tightly controlled by the mage-run military. The military who are hell bent on keeping control. But regular townsfolk can use rune magic as well, it means control is a slippery slope, turning some members of the military violent. The need for control is absolute. Lyss, a human girl, has no magic but is forced to witness a horror that consumes her mind. She will learn to fight so that her all consuming desire to hunt down the one who killed her father is sated. When events cause one of the rarkyn to blood-bond with Lyss, both of their lives change forever. The rarkyn is being hunted. The blood-bond will destroy Lyss’s mind. So the race is on to sever the blood-bond so that Lyss will survive and the rarkyn can escape.
Lyss’s anger and heartache are palpable. The rarkyn’s desire for home and safety are also palpable. It puts them at odds but they are stuck together. And the longer the bond holds, the more of Lyss’s mind she will lose, turning her into the very monster she wants to slay. A killer.
This is a gripping story. A clever tale spun by a terrific writer of horror and high fantasy. Come for the world building, stay for the story of hope and loss, of family, and friendship and love. A story where the two main characters are connected through blood and a burgeoning if at times volatile friendship (not bound by a romantic love but one of family). This is a terrific story and I’m looking forward to continuing Lyss and Skaar’s journey in book two.
March 31, 2022
A fascinating new world awaits the reader. Here the question arises: is the monster a monster, or is the human a monster? Who is the 'other', and can we judge them by our own world view? This kind of problem is perfect for its YA target audience, but makes great reading for the rest of us too.
This fantasy quest joins two frenemies in a perilous, forbidden bond as they travel through a dangerous landscape. The magic system combines demon-summoning with a devastatingly strong empathic magic. A fascinating contrast.
Lyss carries a huge burden from her father's death - survivor's guilt mixed up with hatred of the enemy - and only bloody revenge will do. Full of vengeful emotions, she's not easy to to get close to, and it takes a while for readers to unravel her motivations. A very clever piece of sequencing in this heroine+monster tale introduces us to the rarkyn Skaar first, in a terrifying situation that makes us want him to escape and live.
The resulting blood-compact with the dreaded rarkyn forces Lyss to reassess as she has to act in ways limited or directed by the bond.
Highly recommended - I am eagerly awaiting the next book of this planned trilogy.
This fantasy quest joins two frenemies in a perilous, forbidden bond as they travel through a dangerous landscape. The magic system combines demon-summoning with a devastatingly strong empathic magic. A fascinating contrast.
Lyss carries a huge burden from her father's death - survivor's guilt mixed up with hatred of the enemy - and only bloody revenge will do. Full of vengeful emotions, she's not easy to to get close to, and it takes a while for readers to unravel her motivations. A very clever piece of sequencing in this heroine+monster tale introduces us to the rarkyn Skaar first, in a terrifying situation that makes us want him to escape and live.
The resulting blood-compact with the dreaded rarkyn forces Lyss to reassess as she has to act in ways limited or directed by the bond.
Highly recommended - I am eagerly awaiting the next book of this planned trilogy.
January 22, 2022
Note: I received a free eARC copy from the author and am leaving a voluntary review. My review contains some minor spoilers, so read at your own discretion!
The Rarkyn's Familiar presents an interesting twist on the 'hero and monster companion' trope, which will appeal to fans of strong female protagonists, snarky non-human companions, and interesting magic systems. The hero of the story is Lyss, an orphaned girl with a grudge to settle. Her companion is the eponymous rarkyn Skaar, an otherworldly being of fur and fangs, whom she encounters at the beginning of the novel.
The two are joined together through accident and must learn to get along, in order to figure out how to deal with their newfound bond — and how to survive the various enemies pursuing them. The story is the first in a planned trilogy, focusing on the initial impact of the bond and its implications.
Author Nikky Lee has set the story in an oppressive Empire, where non-approved magic is illegal and imperial troops control citizens with an iron fist — and frequently bloody recrimination. Against this background tension, we get to explore the story of Lyss, Skaar, and the supporting cast.
One of the things I loved most about this book was the magic of the world. Lee's magic system shares some similarities with demon-summoning, but magic users (mancers) also use a system of runes called galdar to control their own powers and the various being of the otherworld (Aetherlings like the rarkyn). Yet Skaar the rarkyn has his own empathic magic and the exploration of these intertwining magics is core to the story.
As a debut, this book showed a ton of promise and I'm excited to read the sequel. Overall, the story was paced well and kept me engaged from start to finish. My only complaint was that I wanted to learn more about the rest of the world and the story was mostly a cross-country chase — so I'm interested to see how the characters and storylines set up in The Rarkyn's Familiar will develop in the next book!
The Rarkyn's Familiar presents an interesting twist on the 'hero and monster companion' trope, which will appeal to fans of strong female protagonists, snarky non-human companions, and interesting magic systems. The hero of the story is Lyss, an orphaned girl with a grudge to settle. Her companion is the eponymous rarkyn Skaar, an otherworldly being of fur and fangs, whom she encounters at the beginning of the novel.
The two are joined together through accident and must learn to get along, in order to figure out how to deal with their newfound bond — and how to survive the various enemies pursuing them. The story is the first in a planned trilogy, focusing on the initial impact of the bond and its implications.
Author Nikky Lee has set the story in an oppressive Empire, where non-approved magic is illegal and imperial troops control citizens with an iron fist — and frequently bloody recrimination. Against this background tension, we get to explore the story of Lyss, Skaar, and the supporting cast.
One of the things I loved most about this book was the magic of the world. Lee's magic system shares some similarities with demon-summoning, but magic users (mancers) also use a system of runes called galdar to control their own powers and the various being of the otherworld (Aetherlings like the rarkyn). Yet Skaar the rarkyn has his own empathic magic and the exploration of these intertwining magics is core to the story.
As a debut, this book showed a ton of promise and I'm excited to read the sequel. Overall, the story was paced well and kept me engaged from start to finish. My only complaint was that I wanted to learn more about the rest of the world and the story was mostly a cross-country chase — so I'm interested to see how the characters and storylines set up in The Rarkyn's Familiar will develop in the next book!
February 9, 2022
I received a free ARC from the author and am leaving a voluntary review.
Wow. What a ride this was. The Rarkyn’s Familiar by Nikky Lee is a YA: High Fantasy. It follows orphan, Lyss, who accidentally finds herself in a blood-pact with a beast from “the other world”: the rarkyn named Skaar. The magic bond she has with Skaar will drive her insane if she doesn’t find a way to break the pact.
First thing I want to clarify. I’ve heard this book being compared to Sarah J. Maas’s books. This is NOTHING like her books. The style, the content, the characters feel more in conversation with The Black Magician Trilogy by Trudi Canavan.
Now that’s out of the way…
The world-building is incredible. There’s so much history, lore and politics packed into 496 pages and a prose-style that zips along. Nowhere did I feel bogged down. And that’s amazing given Nikky Lee has created a made-up language, a foreign universe, a complex magic-system and an array of brand-new creatures.
The characters are beautifully drawn. There’s a large cast, as is expected in High Fantasy. Every character’s motives are clearly explained, making them easy to relate to. Even the antagonists have understandable motives, which adds to the richness of the world. I even felt sad when one of the major villains died. That, to me, is good writing.
The prose fits perfectly for the genre. It’s fast-paced, exciting and leaves enough room for world-building and character relationships to develop. It’s also at times dark and includes blood and gore, but not over-the-top. In fact, I would argue that readers who are not fans of dark themes, would enjoy this book too.
Over all, I recommend this book to anyone who likes their characters complex and morally ambiguous.
Wow. What a ride this was. The Rarkyn’s Familiar by Nikky Lee is a YA: High Fantasy. It follows orphan, Lyss, who accidentally finds herself in a blood-pact with a beast from “the other world”: the rarkyn named Skaar. The magic bond she has with Skaar will drive her insane if she doesn’t find a way to break the pact.
First thing I want to clarify. I’ve heard this book being compared to Sarah J. Maas’s books. This is NOTHING like her books. The style, the content, the characters feel more in conversation with The Black Magician Trilogy by Trudi Canavan.
Now that’s out of the way…
The world-building is incredible. There’s so much history, lore and politics packed into 496 pages and a prose-style that zips along. Nowhere did I feel bogged down. And that’s amazing given Nikky Lee has created a made-up language, a foreign universe, a complex magic-system and an array of brand-new creatures.
The characters are beautifully drawn. There’s a large cast, as is expected in High Fantasy. Every character’s motives are clearly explained, making them easy to relate to. Even the antagonists have understandable motives, which adds to the richness of the world. I even felt sad when one of the major villains died. That, to me, is good writing.
The prose fits perfectly for the genre. It’s fast-paced, exciting and leaves enough room for world-building and character relationships to develop. It’s also at times dark and includes blood and gore, but not over-the-top. In fact, I would argue that readers who are not fans of dark themes, would enjoy this book too.
Over all, I recommend this book to anyone who likes their characters complex and morally ambiguous.
August 8, 2020
I loved this. I like fantasy, feisty heroines and interesting 3-D characters that surprise you. The Rarkyn's Familiar had all that and more. Great story. Can definitely recommend.
April 7, 2022
Book review: The Rarkyn’s Familiar by Nikky Lee
Fantasy, mythology, magic. What can go wrong? Well, everything – if a fantasy novel is written well.
Why do we love speculative fiction such as Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and Ursula le Guin’s Earthsea series? They offer both an escape into an otherworld when reality overwhelms us and confront the real world – the darkness of politics, the wickedness of mankind, the heartache of the common people, the anxiety of living day to day in an imperfect world.
Nikky Lee’s The Rarkyn’s Familiar ranks among my favourite fantasy novels for this very reason. The author created a world where almost everyone has magical powers. Mythical creatures and humans can form a pact that is so strong that their fates become entangled. Naturally, those in authority want to control how these forces are used – and therefore created a hierarchy, laws, and punishment. With great power came greed and cruelty.
The two main characters in the novel fell victim to this system. Both are orphaned. One seeks revenge, the other freedom. Circumstances throw them together, so that they form a pact – by accident. A bond that will ruin them. These two go on a risky journey to find someone who can save them. But that drives them towards the heart of evil. Or the hearts of evils.
Lee has created a world beyond our three dimensions. The Otherworld is neither heaven nor hell. There are gods and monsters and smarokk - cute creatures, with a love for Terrismir flesh. Not human flesh like the monsters, but “(w)ater, earth, leaves” (p 186). The magic in both worlds draw on the Aether in the Otherworld. In that dimension, Rark (Skaar’s pseudonym) can temporarily hide from the people who can harm him, but he warns Lyss that the “Otherworld is always dangerous” (p 213).
Typical superheroes—with sparkling white teeth, few flaws, and weak backstories—are tiresome to me as a reader. The complex characters in The Rarkyn’s Familiar, however, are fascinating.
The two protagonists, Lyss and Skaar, have admirable qualities such as loyalty and resourcefulness but also major flaws. When they safe the people in the nearby town, it is by accident. They focus mainly on their own needs. Neither trusts the other – though bonded, they are driven by fear for The Other and motivated by the desire to be apart. That while their greatest desire is to belong. On p. 135 Skaar worries because he is “stranded in the middle of the human’s world with nothing but this renegade girl for a pack.”
Lyss is a master swordsman but frustrated by her failure to do magic. Orphaned when most vulnerable, she sought the best mentors and worked hard to learn the skills she needed. She is headstrong, revengeful, and reckless – to such an extent that she is a danger to herself and hurt those around her. She kills without much provocation. But guilt haunts her. Anxiety, part of post-traumatic stress disorder after her father was killed in front of her eyes, haunts her. This aspect makes the heroic female character relatable to our reality where everyone went through the horrors of an almost unstoppable virus:
“She rubbed a fist into her gut, trying to ease the tension. There’s no guarantee they’re here.
“There’s no guarantee they’re not, doubt whispered back” (p 305).
Skaar is more than a powerful being, but even after he is freed from his cage, he behaves like a captive. With reason – human magic might not be as strong as his but can trap and injure him. And his unexpected binding to Lyss prevents him from fleeing to safety. Like Lyss, he was a mere child when first rescued but then kept captive by Archer.
Enthralled by elves, dwarves, and magicians, like all lovers of fantasy, but also mesmerized by darker creatures such as dragons, orcs, and demons, Lee wanted to create a unique race. Lee was much influenced by Japanese manga and her lifelong fascination with classical mythologies. The fantastical rarkyns are reminiscent of mythical bird-human hybrids such as the harpies from ancient Greece and Garuda of Hindu mythology. They had to survive in both the human world and the Otherworld, and therefore she gave them survival mechanisms such as telepathic-empathic abilities that would help them to navigate when in flight or when between worlds.
The main antagonist isn’t pure evil – his deeds where initially motivated by kindness and love. His black and white world has gradually turned grey and is rapidly falling into darkness and doom. But at times it takes much effort to stay evil. Unfortunately, the evil is driven by love.
Like all fantasy, this novel will attract readers of all ages. Whether you loved The Harry Potter series or Stars Wars, The Hobbit or The Witcher, A Game of Thrones or Good Omens, magic or sci-fi or gothic fantasy, the action will keep you in your seat. You’ll be grateful to learn that it is the first in a trilogy – the enchantment will continue.
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is the book that I needed now – with its strong link to ancient mythologies, the honest and flawed characters immersed in the pretty dark grey realm between good and evil, the beguiling mystical but recognisable world-gone-wrong, the more than 400-pages long novel offers a fantastic escape for quite a few hours.
Lee is a master wordsmith, enthralling her readers with her captivating debut novel. Over two dozen of her speculative fiction short stories had been published in magazines, anthologies and on radio. She won Best Fantasy Novella and Best Young Adult Short Short at the 2020 Aurealis Awards and the 2021 Ditmar Award for Best New Talent.
Fantasy, mythology, magic. What can go wrong? Well, everything – if a fantasy novel is written well.
Why do we love speculative fiction such as Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and Ursula le Guin’s Earthsea series? They offer both an escape into an otherworld when reality overwhelms us and confront the real world – the darkness of politics, the wickedness of mankind, the heartache of the common people, the anxiety of living day to day in an imperfect world.
Nikky Lee’s The Rarkyn’s Familiar ranks among my favourite fantasy novels for this very reason. The author created a world where almost everyone has magical powers. Mythical creatures and humans can form a pact that is so strong that their fates become entangled. Naturally, those in authority want to control how these forces are used – and therefore created a hierarchy, laws, and punishment. With great power came greed and cruelty.
The two main characters in the novel fell victim to this system. Both are orphaned. One seeks revenge, the other freedom. Circumstances throw them together, so that they form a pact – by accident. A bond that will ruin them. These two go on a risky journey to find someone who can save them. But that drives them towards the heart of evil. Or the hearts of evils.
Lee has created a world beyond our three dimensions. The Otherworld is neither heaven nor hell. There are gods and monsters and smarokk - cute creatures, with a love for Terrismir flesh. Not human flesh like the monsters, but “(w)ater, earth, leaves” (p 186). The magic in both worlds draw on the Aether in the Otherworld. In that dimension, Rark (Skaar’s pseudonym) can temporarily hide from the people who can harm him, but he warns Lyss that the “Otherworld is always dangerous” (p 213).
Typical superheroes—with sparkling white teeth, few flaws, and weak backstories—are tiresome to me as a reader. The complex characters in The Rarkyn’s Familiar, however, are fascinating.
The two protagonists, Lyss and Skaar, have admirable qualities such as loyalty and resourcefulness but also major flaws. When they safe the people in the nearby town, it is by accident. They focus mainly on their own needs. Neither trusts the other – though bonded, they are driven by fear for The Other and motivated by the desire to be apart. That while their greatest desire is to belong. On p. 135 Skaar worries because he is “stranded in the middle of the human’s world with nothing but this renegade girl for a pack.”
Lyss is a master swordsman but frustrated by her failure to do magic. Orphaned when most vulnerable, she sought the best mentors and worked hard to learn the skills she needed. She is headstrong, revengeful, and reckless – to such an extent that she is a danger to herself and hurt those around her. She kills without much provocation. But guilt haunts her. Anxiety, part of post-traumatic stress disorder after her father was killed in front of her eyes, haunts her. This aspect makes the heroic female character relatable to our reality where everyone went through the horrors of an almost unstoppable virus:
“She rubbed a fist into her gut, trying to ease the tension. There’s no guarantee they’re here.
“There’s no guarantee they’re not, doubt whispered back” (p 305).
Skaar is more than a powerful being, but even after he is freed from his cage, he behaves like a captive. With reason – human magic might not be as strong as his but can trap and injure him. And his unexpected binding to Lyss prevents him from fleeing to safety. Like Lyss, he was a mere child when first rescued but then kept captive by Archer.
Enthralled by elves, dwarves, and magicians, like all lovers of fantasy, but also mesmerized by darker creatures such as dragons, orcs, and demons, Lee wanted to create a unique race. Lee was much influenced by Japanese manga and her lifelong fascination with classical mythologies. The fantastical rarkyns are reminiscent of mythical bird-human hybrids such as the harpies from ancient Greece and Garuda of Hindu mythology. They had to survive in both the human world and the Otherworld, and therefore she gave them survival mechanisms such as telepathic-empathic abilities that would help them to navigate when in flight or when between worlds.
The main antagonist isn’t pure evil – his deeds where initially motivated by kindness and love. His black and white world has gradually turned grey and is rapidly falling into darkness and doom. But at times it takes much effort to stay evil. Unfortunately, the evil is driven by love.
Like all fantasy, this novel will attract readers of all ages. Whether you loved The Harry Potter series or Stars Wars, The Hobbit or The Witcher, A Game of Thrones or Good Omens, magic or sci-fi or gothic fantasy, the action will keep you in your seat. You’ll be grateful to learn that it is the first in a trilogy – the enchantment will continue.
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is the book that I needed now – with its strong link to ancient mythologies, the honest and flawed characters immersed in the pretty dark grey realm between good and evil, the beguiling mystical but recognisable world-gone-wrong, the more than 400-pages long novel offers a fantastic escape for quite a few hours.
Lee is a master wordsmith, enthralling her readers with her captivating debut novel. Over two dozen of her speculative fiction short stories had been published in magazines, anthologies and on radio. She won Best Fantasy Novella and Best Young Adult Short Short at the 2020 Aurealis Awards and the 2021 Ditmar Award for Best New Talent.
June 23, 2022
So happy I took a chance and read this story. One of my goals for this year, was to read more fantasy books and this was certainly an incredible addition to my collection.
The Rarkyn's Familiar introduces the reader to a world full of magic, suspense, devious political intrigue and an unlikely alliance. When Lyss witness her father's execution, all her time and efforts go to avenging him, and she will stop at nothing to achieve it. One day Lyss has a violent encounter with a rarkyn. This creature is full of violence, magic and danger. Under mysterious circumstances Lyss and the rarkyn become intertwined and everything will change.
Even if Lyss has very good sword skills, and possesses some magic of her own, the rarkyn's power is absolutely formidable and if not removed from her, she can go mad. Fortunately Skaar and Lyss make an alliance to destroy the corrupt Empire called The Order and to set each other free. Absolutely loved the magic system and the characters we're so unique and very well crafted. You definitely can feel the pain Lyss endured at her father's assassination, but I found her relationship with Skaar to be endearing and at times very protective. Definitely will be interesting to read the sequel and see where this world will take the reader.
The Rarkyn's Familiar introduces the reader to a world full of magic, suspense, devious political intrigue and an unlikely alliance. When Lyss witness her father's execution, all her time and efforts go to avenging him, and she will stop at nothing to achieve it. One day Lyss has a violent encounter with a rarkyn. This creature is full of violence, magic and danger. Under mysterious circumstances Lyss and the rarkyn become intertwined and everything will change.
Even if Lyss has very good sword skills, and possesses some magic of her own, the rarkyn's power is absolutely formidable and if not removed from her, she can go mad. Fortunately Skaar and Lyss make an alliance to destroy the corrupt Empire called The Order and to set each other free. Absolutely loved the magic system and the characters we're so unique and very well crafted. You definitely can feel the pain Lyss endured at her father's assassination, but I found her relationship with Skaar to be endearing and at times very protective. Definitely will be interesting to read the sequel and see where this world will take the reader.
April 21, 2022
If you love strong female protagonists, you will enjoy The Rarkyn’s Familiar. The author, Nikky Lee, does an amazing job with world building. I would consider this book to be High Fantasy. I was a bit confused at times with the terminology, but it didn’t take long to catch on and entirely lose myself within this book.
The story begins with Lyss, an orphan burdened by watching her father be executed. While hunting with Hane and Darrin, two brothers from the camp, an accident occurred that left Lyss in a blood pact with a rarkyn, Skaar. A rarkyn is a creature with magic from the Otherworld flowing through it. After being bonded, they must join forces to find a way to break the pact. Though the journey may not be easy or kind for Lyss and Skaar.
With that being said…
The Rarkyn’s Familiar does a great job at defining the word “monster”. Lee does a brilliant job at making the reader wonder who the true monster is. Lee’s writing style makes this book a very intriguing read. It is very descriptive and makes you feel as though you are almost walking into the book.
These characters are written beautifully. Our leading protagonists, Lyss and Skaar, have a lot of depth to their characters. Their motives are clear and descriptive. Although they must work together, they don’t entirely trust one another. Even the antagonist’s motives were clear and somewhat understandable. Throughout this book, you’ll realize that evil isn’t black and white. There is no pure evil or pure goodness and I love the way Lee captures this concept perfectly.
Overall, The Rarkyn’s Familiar was a very fun, intriguing read and left me wanting to see what comes next in the following book.
Thank you The Parliament House and NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins with Lyss, an orphan burdened by watching her father be executed. While hunting with Hane and Darrin, two brothers from the camp, an accident occurred that left Lyss in a blood pact with a rarkyn, Skaar. A rarkyn is a creature with magic from the Otherworld flowing through it. After being bonded, they must join forces to find a way to break the pact. Though the journey may not be easy or kind for Lyss and Skaar.
With that being said…
The Rarkyn’s Familiar does a great job at defining the word “monster”. Lee does a brilliant job at making the reader wonder who the true monster is. Lee’s writing style makes this book a very intriguing read. It is very descriptive and makes you feel as though you are almost walking into the book.
These characters are written beautifully. Our leading protagonists, Lyss and Skaar, have a lot of depth to their characters. Their motives are clear and descriptive. Although they must work together, they don’t entirely trust one another. Even the antagonist’s motives were clear and somewhat understandable. Throughout this book, you’ll realize that evil isn’t black and white. There is no pure evil or pure goodness and I love the way Lee captures this concept perfectly.
Overall, The Rarkyn’s Familiar was a very fun, intriguing read and left me wanting to see what comes next in the following book.
Thank you The Parliament House and NetGalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2022
*** I received an ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review ***
Conclusion
A great read for anyone seeking a unique from a debut author and a well-crafted epic fantasy. Highly recommended!
Review
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is the debut Fantasy novel by New Zealand author Nikky Lee.
The Rarkyn’s Familiar follows the protagonist Lyss, an orphan apprentice in a camp of lowly trained mancers. When hunting with two brothers from the camp, they come across a landslide in the mountain roads. A partially destroyed cart contains one of the kingdom’s most feared creatures trapped within a cage. A rarkyn. In a series of well-intended gestures, the three release the powerful sigils on the chains and free the rarkyn but not before it bonds itself as a familiar to Lyss.
Now bonded as familiars, Lyss and the rarkyn have a short amount of time to find someone in the capital capable of breaking their bond before the overwhelming magic of the rarkyn drives Lyss insane. Hunted by the Order mancers, soldiers and the rarkyn’s last captor, Lyss’s magic grows more powerful the more time she spends bonded to the rarkyn but so does her own dark potential. Time is running out for Lyss and the rarkyn if they want to survive the binding.
Final Thoughts
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is an engaging debut novel exploring a unique concept of familiar bonding; where a human becomes bonded to a fantastical creature. This adds a refreshing aspect to the storyline and complex world building that feels genuine for these characters and histories. The is a truly worthwhile read from a new voice in epic fantasy.
Conclusion
A great read for anyone seeking a unique from a debut author and a well-crafted epic fantasy. Highly recommended!
Review
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is the debut Fantasy novel by New Zealand author Nikky Lee.
The Rarkyn’s Familiar follows the protagonist Lyss, an orphan apprentice in a camp of lowly trained mancers. When hunting with two brothers from the camp, they come across a landslide in the mountain roads. A partially destroyed cart contains one of the kingdom’s most feared creatures trapped within a cage. A rarkyn. In a series of well-intended gestures, the three release the powerful sigils on the chains and free the rarkyn but not before it bonds itself as a familiar to Lyss.
Now bonded as familiars, Lyss and the rarkyn have a short amount of time to find someone in the capital capable of breaking their bond before the overwhelming magic of the rarkyn drives Lyss insane. Hunted by the Order mancers, soldiers and the rarkyn’s last captor, Lyss’s magic grows more powerful the more time she spends bonded to the rarkyn but so does her own dark potential. Time is running out for Lyss and the rarkyn if they want to survive the binding.
Final Thoughts
The Rarkyn’s Familiar is an engaging debut novel exploring a unique concept of familiar bonding; where a human becomes bonded to a fantastical creature. This adds a refreshing aspect to the storyline and complex world building that feels genuine for these characters and histories. The is a truly worthwhile read from a new voice in epic fantasy.
April 13, 2022
As a reader all my thirsts were slaked, from complex magics, differentiating in uses and types, to wondrous lore, epic adventure, danger, and the forging of bonds. I couldn't devour this book quickly enough. This is without a doubt an author I would recommend, and a book I have already suggested to fellow readers. It's a gripping and gruelling adventure with truths uncovered, fates intertwined, and manipulation running rampant. A rich world, vibrant characters and an adventure that will mesmerise, bind, and captivate. I need more of these characters. I can’t wait to see where their next adventure takes them. This is the kind of book you have to own, a boon to any library.
February 7, 2022
Note: I received a free eARC copy from the author and am leaving a voluntary review. May contain spoilers.
A very fun read, right out of the action/adventure style of fantasy. Lyss' "journey" (or perhaps more accurately - "rapid flight from danger") after bonding with the Rarkyn leaves very little time to catch your breath. However, despite the action, Lee does a great job of character development and world building. We learn a fair bit about the magic system and the origin of the Rarkyn and the history of the book's main antagonist. There is some detail on the geopolitics of the Illredan Empire and it relationship to the magic system, but it is kept light - I'm looking forward to seeing how this develops over the rest the series.
The strength of the book is on the arcs of Lyss and Skaar and the establishment of their uneasy alliance. Their relationship to the antagonist is slowly revealed in an epistolary style before ending in fairly epic final scene - which is the last ~20% of the book. While quite a long final event it it consistently gripping and doesn't leave you wishing that they'd just get it over with. We also get some interesting side characters joining the story along the way and I hope to see how they develop over the coming books. The action is well choreographed too, I was never confused about what was happening at any point in the story. Also violent actions are not without consequences either, victims' backstories are often touched on and death is never treated lightly regardless of the who has suffered the fatality.
Why not 5 stars? The only area I hope to see development with more depth is the character motivations. Lyss' world view (early on) is shaped heavily by the death of her father. The behaviour of the main antagonist is shaped by a similarly tragic event. We also see a comparable event unfold during the final scene for one of the other characters. I hope that the motivations of the characters in to the future are not solely based on these events, to the point where they make highly irrational decisions. The end scene with the antagonistic skirts very close to this. However, with Lyss we the events of the book start to play into her character and I hope as we progress through the series that we can see her (and the other characters) become a sum of her (their) experiences rather than dominated by a single event.
Overall a really enjoyable read, and I'm already looking forward to getting hold of the next one.
A very fun read, right out of the action/adventure style of fantasy. Lyss' "journey" (or perhaps more accurately - "rapid flight from danger") after bonding with the Rarkyn leaves very little time to catch your breath. However, despite the action, Lee does a great job of character development and world building. We learn a fair bit about the magic system and the origin of the Rarkyn and the history of the book's main antagonist. There is some detail on the geopolitics of the Illredan Empire and it relationship to the magic system, but it is kept light - I'm looking forward to seeing how this develops over the rest the series.
The strength of the book is on the arcs of Lyss and Skaar and the establishment of their uneasy alliance. Their relationship to the antagonist is slowly revealed in an epistolary style before ending in fairly epic final scene - which is the last ~20% of the book. While quite a long final event it it consistently gripping and doesn't leave you wishing that they'd just get it over with. We also get some interesting side characters joining the story along the way and I hope to see how they develop over the coming books. The action is well choreographed too, I was never confused about what was happening at any point in the story. Also violent actions are not without consequences either, victims' backstories are often touched on and death is never treated lightly regardless of the who has suffered the fatality.
Why not 5 stars? The only area I hope to see development with more depth is the character motivations. Lyss' world view (early on) is shaped heavily by the death of her father. The behaviour of the main antagonist is shaped by a similarly tragic event. We also see a comparable event unfold during the final scene for one of the other characters. I hope that the motivations of the characters in to the future are not solely based on these events, to the point where they make highly irrational decisions. The end scene with the antagonistic skirts very close to this. However, with Lyss we the events of the book start to play into her character and I hope as we progress through the series that we can see her (and the other characters) become a sum of her (their) experiences rather than dominated by a single event.
Overall a really enjoyable read, and I'm already looking forward to getting hold of the next one.
February 4, 2023
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
A dark and thrilling fantasy debut.
The Rarkyn's Familiar is a gripping adventure with two intriguing and engaging protagonists. I loved having a non-human perspective that really gave me insight into how another species might think and feel. The world building and magic system were unique and left me wanting to see more of this universe.
This is a must-read debut and I can't wait to see what comes next from Lee.
I am a judge for the 2022 Aurealis Awards. This review is my personal opinion and does not reflect the opinion of any judging panel, the judging coordinators, or the Aurealis Awards management team.
A dark and thrilling fantasy debut.
The Rarkyn's Familiar is a gripping adventure with two intriguing and engaging protagonists. I loved having a non-human perspective that really gave me insight into how another species might think and feel. The world building and magic system were unique and left me wanting to see more of this universe.
This is a must-read debut and I can't wait to see what comes next from Lee.
I am a judge for the 2022 Aurealis Awards. This review is my personal opinion and does not reflect the opinion of any judging panel, the judging coordinators, or the Aurealis Awards management team.
April 4, 2025
I had been seeing a lot of good things about this book and I think it lives up to the hype! This fantasy book had such a great cast of characters and a plot that was simple but moved quickly. Skaar was wonderful and the antagonist was great, especially when his full motives were unveiled. The ending has a cool moment that reminded me so much of Attack on Titan. This story held my attention pretty much throughout the whole book. I enjoyed Lyss' journey; I appreciated that she was a normal girl caught up in all this. I'm all here for a girl and her monster. The magic was very cool and the world building kept me intrigued. I do think the book could have done with a glossary (I'm a glossary girl) since there were terms and things that I did fully grasp until later. 4.5/5
November 28, 2024
Ya'll know that I just ADORE upper YA fantasy that has dark, complex themes with deeply compelling characters (even villains!) and a richly imagined world. From the opening pages, this book hooks you with its intensity and doesn’t let go!
Lyss is an incredible character - her thirst for revenge, her resilience, and her vulnerability make her feel achingly real. When she’s bound by a blood-pact to Skaar, an aether creature with forbidden magic, their uneasy alliance creates an INCREDIBLY gripping dynamic that evolves beautifully throughout the story. Their bond, slow to build as they travel, is fraught with tension yet layered with eventual trust and mutual understanding. It's a beautiful friendship! Even the villains and side characters are wonderfully crafted and layered, which adds so much moral complexity. That is a recipe to get me to LOVE a series!
The world-building is also wonderful. The aether creatures are fascinating, and the magic system is thoughtfully developed, tying into the story’s emotional weight and stakes. The pacing is spot-on, pulling you through tense confrontations and quiet moments. This story also excels in its emotional depth. Lee doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of these characters. The emotional impact is profound.
For fans of dark, upper YA fantasy with intricate world-building and unforgettable characters, The Rarkyn’s Familiar is a must-read. It’s fast-paced, immersive, and hits all the right emotional beats. I’m thrilled to see where the next book takes this incredible story!
Thanks so much to Hidden Hollow Tours and the amazing author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Lyss is an incredible character - her thirst for revenge, her resilience, and her vulnerability make her feel achingly real. When she’s bound by a blood-pact to Skaar, an aether creature with forbidden magic, their uneasy alliance creates an INCREDIBLY gripping dynamic that evolves beautifully throughout the story. Their bond, slow to build as they travel, is fraught with tension yet layered with eventual trust and mutual understanding. It's a beautiful friendship! Even the villains and side characters are wonderfully crafted and layered, which adds so much moral complexity. That is a recipe to get me to LOVE a series!
The world-building is also wonderful. The aether creatures are fascinating, and the magic system is thoughtfully developed, tying into the story’s emotional weight and stakes. The pacing is spot-on, pulling you through tense confrontations and quiet moments. This story also excels in its emotional depth. Lee doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of these characters. The emotional impact is profound.
For fans of dark, upper YA fantasy with intricate world-building and unforgettable characters, The Rarkyn’s Familiar is a must-read. It’s fast-paced, immersive, and hits all the right emotional beats. I’m thrilled to see where the next book takes this incredible story!
Thanks so much to Hidden Hollow Tours and the amazing author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
May 22, 2022
ARC from NetGalley
The Rarkyn's Familiar follows Lyss in her quest to sever her connection to the rarkyn, Skaar. It's a dangerous journey, as Lyss would be in significant trouble if caught with him, and people would pay good money to eat Skaar's eyes to gain the gift of second sight.
Magic isn't banned in this world, but it is tightly controlled. Magic is worked by runes, and there are only certain runes that are government approved. People are able to summon creatures from the Otherworld, but you are not allowed to summon above your station. Very powerful creatures are only allowed to be summoned by high ranking mancers, and there are few, if any, mancers who are allowed to tie themselves to a rarkyn.
This book is full of morally grey characters and interesting magic, and it ends in a pretty epic battle. There were times when it felt a bit young to me, but I can't really articulate why, perhaps the author's voice. I would have liked some more character development, but again, this is part of a trilogy so hopefully that's coming up. I feel like there is a lot left to explore. The magic system needs to be more fully fleshed out. I also want to know about Lyss' bloodlines. Who were her parents? What's the deal with the crown and the order? There are a few mysteries left to be untangled in the coming books. I'm interested to see where it all goes.
The Rarkyn's Familiar follows Lyss in her quest to sever her connection to the rarkyn, Skaar. It's a dangerous journey, as Lyss would be in significant trouble if caught with him, and people would pay good money to eat Skaar's eyes to gain the gift of second sight.
Magic isn't banned in this world, but it is tightly controlled. Magic is worked by runes, and there are only certain runes that are government approved. People are able to summon creatures from the Otherworld, but you are not allowed to summon above your station. Very powerful creatures are only allowed to be summoned by high ranking mancers, and there are few, if any, mancers who are allowed to tie themselves to a rarkyn.
This book is full of morally grey characters and interesting magic, and it ends in a pretty epic battle. There were times when it felt a bit young to me, but I can't really articulate why, perhaps the author's voice. I would have liked some more character development, but again, this is part of a trilogy so hopefully that's coming up. I feel like there is a lot left to explore. The magic system needs to be more fully fleshed out. I also want to know about Lyss' bloodlines. Who were her parents? What's the deal with the crown and the order? There are a few mysteries left to be untangled in the coming books. I'm interested to see where it all goes.
April 24, 2022
The Rarkyn’s Familiar was a phenomenal read. The writing and world building was exceptional. This was one of the best books I’ve read in a while and I can’t wait to read the next books. I loved the characters, the magic, the world building, the multiple POV’s, honestly everything. I will definitely read this again as I thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 29, 2022
Thank you to The Parliament House and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The Rarkyn's Familiar by Nikky Lee is an exciting YA fantasy adventure that will appeal to fans of The Golden Compass or Fantastic Beasts. The story revolves around Lyss, a human orphan seeking revenge for her father's death, and Skaar, a rarkyn, a magical creature. When unexpected circumstances result in a bond between Lyss and Skaar, the unlikely pair will need to team up to find a way to break the bond. Will the two succeed in their quest despite the dangers along the way?
Here is an exciting excerpt from Chapter 1, which introduces us to Skaar::
"That he’d survived the first slide at all was a miracle. Locked inside the wretched wagon, he’d bounced within its tumbling mass all the way to the bottom, the final impact turning his mind black. He was sure it had taken him at least a day just to summon the will to open his eyes again, skull throbbing as if someone had carved it open with a rusted knife. When he’d probed the raw lump on the back of his head, the world had swum, and he’d doubled over and retched into the dirt.
...
A breeze wafted the scent of musty earth over him, along with something else, a thick sour stench he knew too well. Death. Something—someone Skaar hoped—was rotting somewhere in the mound. Probably the horse. With any luck, Archer too. And good riddance. If Skaar never saw that accursed mancer again, he’d die a happy rarkyn."
Overall, The Rarkyn's Familiar is a stunning YA fantasy that will appeal to fans of fantastic creatures. One highlight of this book is the unique magical world that the author explores. The idea of rarkyns is very creative, and I found them very interesting to read about. Another highlight is how the chapters alternate between Lyss, a human, and Skaar, a rarkyn. I like how the book doesn't center human perspectives. I did take off 1 star, because I had trouble connecting with the main characters. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of YA fantasy in general, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in April!
The Rarkyn's Familiar by Nikky Lee is an exciting YA fantasy adventure that will appeal to fans of The Golden Compass or Fantastic Beasts. The story revolves around Lyss, a human orphan seeking revenge for her father's death, and Skaar, a rarkyn, a magical creature. When unexpected circumstances result in a bond between Lyss and Skaar, the unlikely pair will need to team up to find a way to break the bond. Will the two succeed in their quest despite the dangers along the way?
Here is an exciting excerpt from Chapter 1, which introduces us to Skaar::
"That he’d survived the first slide at all was a miracle. Locked inside the wretched wagon, he’d bounced within its tumbling mass all the way to the bottom, the final impact turning his mind black. He was sure it had taken him at least a day just to summon the will to open his eyes again, skull throbbing as if someone had carved it open with a rusted knife. When he’d probed the raw lump on the back of his head, the world had swum, and he’d doubled over and retched into the dirt.
...
A breeze wafted the scent of musty earth over him, along with something else, a thick sour stench he knew too well. Death. Something—someone Skaar hoped—was rotting somewhere in the mound. Probably the horse. With any luck, Archer too. And good riddance. If Skaar never saw that accursed mancer again, he’d die a happy rarkyn."
Overall, The Rarkyn's Familiar is a stunning YA fantasy that will appeal to fans of fantastic creatures. One highlight of this book is the unique magical world that the author explores. The idea of rarkyns is very creative, and I found them very interesting to read about. Another highlight is how the chapters alternate between Lyss, a human, and Skaar, a rarkyn. I like how the book doesn't center human perspectives. I did take off 1 star, because I had trouble connecting with the main characters. If you're intrigued by the excerpt above, or if you're a fan of YA fantasy in general, I highly recommend that you check out this book when it comes out in April!
April 13, 2022
An enthralling new world awaits the reader in The Rarkyn’s Familiar by Nikki Lee. It really makes you ask: Who is the real monster, the human or the actual monster? It definitely makes you ask these questions and makes for a gripping YA read.
Lyssa becomes such a strong character in this book after she’s left reeling from her father’s death. Full of vengeful emotions, she begins to unravel her motivations that leading us to the rarkyn Skaar. Without giving away too many of the details, I’ll just say this was so good.
Lyssa becomes such a strong character in this book after she’s left reeling from her father’s death. Full of vengeful emotions, she begins to unravel her motivations that leading us to the rarkyn Skaar. Without giving away too many of the details, I’ll just say this was so good.
April 29, 2022
“As they say in Illredus: look to deep into the abyss and the abyss looks back at you.”
Monsters. Corruption. Magic. Vengeance. Adventure. My favourite sort of YA high fantasy cocktail!
Lyss, our kick ass female protagonist (can there be any other acceptable type) is raised in a world that borders another - an abyss full of monsters ready to devour human flesh. Then there are monsters who balance between worlds, here we meet Skaar, a rarkyn who has been trapped in one world thanks to a mancers monstrous decision. Lyss and Skaar's worlds are about to collide as a blood pact draws their lives together, towards an adventure to delight and horrify.
Honestly, I am absolutely enthralled with this novel. I loved how the world-building tied in so beautifully with the plot; with a plot that has just the right amount of action to keep it lively and enough detail to create an empire to get lost in. There is violence, death, and destruction in their path so get ready for some gruesome imagery. I loved all the characters and the mysteriousness of the connection between Skaar and Lyss. Morally-grey I hear you ask? Yes indeed. Everyone is doing something for a reason, which falls into that wonderfully grey abyss in the middle.
Our Antipodean author, Nikky Lee was offered a publishing deal thanks to a Twitter contest. How freaking cool is that! If you like Jay Kristoff or Leigh Bardugo vibes, this book will definitely tickle your fancy, I most highly recommend. I cannot wait to get my claws into a sequel!
"I am not helpless. Not today."
Thank you to the publisher for providing me a copy for an honest review. (No lies, I loved it.)
Monsters. Corruption. Magic. Vengeance. Adventure. My favourite sort of YA high fantasy cocktail!
Lyss, our kick ass female protagonist (can there be any other acceptable type) is raised in a world that borders another - an abyss full of monsters ready to devour human flesh. Then there are monsters who balance between worlds, here we meet Skaar, a rarkyn who has been trapped in one world thanks to a mancers monstrous decision. Lyss and Skaar's worlds are about to collide as a blood pact draws their lives together, towards an adventure to delight and horrify.
Honestly, I am absolutely enthralled with this novel. I loved how the world-building tied in so beautifully with the plot; with a plot that has just the right amount of action to keep it lively and enough detail to create an empire to get lost in. There is violence, death, and destruction in their path so get ready for some gruesome imagery. I loved all the characters and the mysteriousness of the connection between Skaar and Lyss. Morally-grey I hear you ask? Yes indeed. Everyone is doing something for a reason, which falls into that wonderfully grey abyss in the middle.
Our Antipodean author, Nikky Lee was offered a publishing deal thanks to a Twitter contest. How freaking cool is that! If you like Jay Kristoff or Leigh Bardugo vibes, this book will definitely tickle your fancy, I most highly recommend. I cannot wait to get my claws into a sequel!
"I am not helpless. Not today."
Thank you to the publisher for providing me a copy for an honest review. (No lies, I loved it.)
January 17, 2024
Excellent fantasy. The opening page caught my attention immediately and with few slower spots kept it throughout the book. Although the age given for Lyss is 14 this is not a book for younger teens. A lot of violense, blood and death occure. The main characters are Lyss, a young girl orphaned and without magic and Skaar, a creature from the wild who's very blood is magic. Skaar is captive to a magician who drinks his blood to gain power. During a landslide the magician is buried and Skaar, chained and caged, is starving to death. He is found by friends of Lyss who want to free him even though they fear him. During the process Lyss and Skaar are bonded, his magic shared with her. The book has a great story even as these two learn not to hate and fear each other.
I received this book from Netgalley. Thanks to the author and publisher for making it available.
I received this book from Netgalley. Thanks to the author and publisher for making it available.
May 8, 2022
This took a long time for me to get through and I could not connect with the MC.
The author has created a very interesting magic system. Nikky has also crafted a very unique magical world that has philosophical tones in regards to man and monsters, good vs evil.
I personally was not as engrossed to the story, but that being said, there is something very special to this world, writing and plot, that I think this will capture quite a few readers' hearts
Thank you to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The author has created a very interesting magic system. Nikky has also crafted a very unique magical world that has philosophical tones in regards to man and monsters, good vs evil.
I personally was not as engrossed to the story, but that being said, there is something very special to this world, writing and plot, that I think this will capture quite a few readers' hearts
Thank you to NetGalley and Independent Publishers Group for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2022
What a pleasant surprise this was! Anyone who's read my previous reviews (or even just glances at my reading history, honestly) knows that I'm not the biggest fan of YA. I am, however, a big fan of The Rarkyn's Familiar.
I saw somewhere that this book has been in the works since 2006, and it definitely shows (in a good way). The worldbuilding is intricate and complex and yet, very easy to understand! Usually, when I read a book with lots of original terms/phrases, I find myself going back to reread certain parts or wishing I had a glossary to help navigate the narrative. But with this book, the terms were surprisingly easy to pick up - even without the characters explaining them in the dialogue right away. Which, to me, seems like a tricky thing to do as a writer, so props to Nikky Lee for that!
On top of the immersive worlds of Terresmir and the Otherworld are the characters who are just as complex! Lyss, our orphaned main character, finds herself suddenly bound to Skaar, an aetherling creature known as a rarkyn. This bond and her connection to Skaar's magic will eventually drive her mad - but she's determined not to let it stop her from avenging her father's death. She's a stunning character full of grit and determination.
While Skaar is an entirely different species, he does share one thing with Lyss that brings them together: loss. And while they navigate their magical bond and individual experiences with grief, they find a different kind of bond along the way.
All of the characters in the book are so likable! Because of the multiple POV, even the villains of the story don't come across as true villains. Every character is a shining example of how the world is not colored in only black and white and how past experiences can change a person's view on what's right and wrong.
Another thing that I absolutely loved about this book was the imagery! Every scene comes across so colorfully - especially the fighting and action scenes!! Seriously, the last 20% of the book was so engaging - I couldn't put it down and I found myself holding my breath on more than one occasion! You might imagine that the book is full of paragraphs of scenic descriptive dialogue, but once again, that is surprisingly not the case. Nikky Lee gives us just enough to build the bare bones of the scene. I felt like it allowed me to fill in the gaps with my own imagination, and let me tell you, the scenes playing in my mind were WILD. Yet another writing ability that can be tough - to have a story be so immersive without exorbitant descriptors.
If I had to provide some kind of critique, it would be that I wished there was a bit more history for the characters. Don't get me wrong, we're given a lot, especially in the trauma they've experienced in the past - but I think including a few more anecdotes unrelated to their loss would have really rounded them out.
Overall, it's a marvelous first book! There are so many questions left unanswered, but the story's end is clearly just the beginning. Can't wait for book two!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5!
Thank you, NetGalley and IPG, for the e-book in exchange for an honest review!
I saw somewhere that this book has been in the works since 2006, and it definitely shows (in a good way). The worldbuilding is intricate and complex and yet, very easy to understand! Usually, when I read a book with lots of original terms/phrases, I find myself going back to reread certain parts or wishing I had a glossary to help navigate the narrative. But with this book, the terms were surprisingly easy to pick up - even without the characters explaining them in the dialogue right away. Which, to me, seems like a tricky thing to do as a writer, so props to Nikky Lee for that!
On top of the immersive worlds of Terresmir and the Otherworld are the characters who are just as complex! Lyss, our orphaned main character, finds herself suddenly bound to Skaar, an aetherling creature known as a rarkyn. This bond and her connection to Skaar's magic will eventually drive her mad - but she's determined not to let it stop her from avenging her father's death. She's a stunning character full of grit and determination.
While Skaar is an entirely different species, he does share one thing with Lyss that brings them together: loss. And while they navigate their magical bond and individual experiences with grief, they find a different kind of bond along the way.
All of the characters in the book are so likable! Because of the multiple POV, even the villains of the story don't come across as true villains. Every character is a shining example of how the world is not colored in only black and white and how past experiences can change a person's view on what's right and wrong.
Another thing that I absolutely loved about this book was the imagery! Every scene comes across so colorfully - especially the fighting and action scenes!! Seriously, the last 20% of the book was so engaging - I couldn't put it down and I found myself holding my breath on more than one occasion! You might imagine that the book is full of paragraphs of scenic descriptive dialogue, but once again, that is surprisingly not the case. Nikky Lee gives us just enough to build the bare bones of the scene. I felt like it allowed me to fill in the gaps with my own imagination, and let me tell you, the scenes playing in my mind were WILD. Yet another writing ability that can be tough - to have a story be so immersive without exorbitant descriptors.
If I had to provide some kind of critique, it would be that I wished there was a bit more history for the characters. Don't get me wrong, we're given a lot, especially in the trauma they've experienced in the past - but I think including a few more anecdotes unrelated to their loss would have really rounded them out.
Overall, it's a marvelous first book! There are so many questions left unanswered, but the story's end is clearly just the beginning. Can't wait for book two!
Rating: 4.5/5 stars rounded up to 5!
Thank you, NetGalley and IPG, for the e-book in exchange for an honest review!
November 26, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The story is intriguing and peculiar, featuring the typical (hero’s) journey trope. Like most epic fantasy novels, this first book serves as an introduction to the world and its magic, while also presenting the characters and their stories. As a result, the storyline isn’t packed with events, but the ones that unfold are gripping.
The magic system was what I enjoyed most about this book. The Otherworld and its magic are unique, although I found them somewhat hard to understand. A glossary and a map would have been helpful.
The book is written in the third person and features many characters with different POVs. I appreciated that the events preceding the novel’s storyline were narrated through letters.
I was really intrigued by the pact between Lyss and Skaar. I loved how their friendship grew and how well the author portrayed the difference between how humans see the rarkyns and how the rarkyns see themselves. I didn’t feel deeply connected to them, as I struggled a bit with the writing, but I’m very curious to see how their journey will continue.
I received an adavanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
The magic system was what I enjoyed most about this book. The Otherworld and its magic are unique, although I found them somewhat hard to understand. A glossary and a map would have been helpful.
The book is written in the third person and features many characters with different POVs. I appreciated that the events preceding the novel’s storyline were narrated through letters.
I was really intrigued by the pact between Lyss and Skaar. I loved how their friendship grew and how well the author portrayed the difference between how humans see the rarkyns and how the rarkyns see themselves. I didn’t feel deeply connected to them, as I struggled a bit with the writing, but I’m very curious to see how their journey will continue.
I received an adavanced reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
February 22, 2025
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM
I first found out about this book thanks to the SFF Insider Discord! The author had posted a link to a sale on the first of this series, and from the cover alone I knew I wanted to read it. I’m so glad I did because this stands as one of my favorite reads of the month. Lyss and her reluctant companion The Rarkyn must travel through mountains, burning towns, and Order strongholds to get to the great city of Illredus in hopes of ridding themselves of a blood pact and hopefully all before Lyss loses her mind to the magic of it all.
Characters
We are introduced to the story by way of a mysterious creature that is known as a rarkyn – a beast of the Otherworld, trapped in the human realm. A rockslide has crushed his captor under rubble, but he is still bound by magic that suppresses his ability to escape.
Then along comes Lyss, who in her foolishness and naivety attempts to release him from his binds. But all backfires when the clutches of their combined magic binds them in a blood pact. I really like Lyss. She seems timid but she proves to be anything but as the story progresses, she grows into her own as they attempt to escape the Order that would see them both dead.
Atmosphere
I really enjoyed the setting and the world-building of this story. It’s unique and brings beast and girl together on a mission that would release them both from the tethers that bind them. While the rarkyn has been hunted and forced to stay in this realm, Lyss is anchored by her own past and the pressures she had placed on herself her whole life to be better than anyone expects from her.
Writing Style
Lee has a great and unique storytelling voice in the young adult fantasy space. She has presented us with a magical story that all readers can enjoy, staying true to the adventure fantasy with only a very soft romance on the fringes of the tale. I would only caution the very younger side of the spectrum in the young adult range, as there are some graphic action scenes. But overall, I think readers both younger and older can enjoy this first-of-a-series.
Plot
With the blood pact threatening to turn Lyss against her own mind, she and the rarkyn embark on an adventure across the kingdom to seek out the help of stronger mancers of magic in the city of Illredus. There is nothing easy about their trek, and they are faced with many trying times and forces against their control. On top of that, they are being hunted, not just by the Order but also by the very man who trapped the rarkyn to begin with – rarkyn are intensely sought after for their Otherwordly magic and neither of them are safe on this trip. I turned page after page to see them on their way.
Intrigue
The uniqueness of this story pulled me right in from the very first page. There is a spring of world-building and character development that immersed me in a story I couldn’t put down. The Order on their tails was thrilling and the magic at word was enthralling. I was especially eager to see Lyss transform on the page from a timid girl to someone worth her salt, and while this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (kind of par for the course in a series) this took me on a ride I won’t soon forget.
Excitement
Excitement is an understatement! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am so eager to get into the pages of the next book! I am giving it some time for the author to release more about the third and final book in this trilogy, but I highly recommend this to all readers looking for an action and magic-packed adventure fantasy.
I first found out about this book thanks to the SFF Insider Discord! The author had posted a link to a sale on the first of this series, and from the cover alone I knew I wanted to read it. I’m so glad I did because this stands as one of my favorite reads of the month. Lyss and her reluctant companion The Rarkyn must travel through mountains, burning towns, and Order strongholds to get to the great city of Illredus in hopes of ridding themselves of a blood pact and hopefully all before Lyss loses her mind to the magic of it all.
Characters
We are introduced to the story by way of a mysterious creature that is known as a rarkyn – a beast of the Otherworld, trapped in the human realm. A rockslide has crushed his captor under rubble, but he is still bound by magic that suppresses his ability to escape.
Then along comes Lyss, who in her foolishness and naivety attempts to release him from his binds. But all backfires when the clutches of their combined magic binds them in a blood pact. I really like Lyss. She seems timid but she proves to be anything but as the story progresses, she grows into her own as they attempt to escape the Order that would see them both dead.
Atmosphere
I really enjoyed the setting and the world-building of this story. It’s unique and brings beast and girl together on a mission that would release them both from the tethers that bind them. While the rarkyn has been hunted and forced to stay in this realm, Lyss is anchored by her own past and the pressures she had placed on herself her whole life to be better than anyone expects from her.
Writing Style
Lee has a great and unique storytelling voice in the young adult fantasy space. She has presented us with a magical story that all readers can enjoy, staying true to the adventure fantasy with only a very soft romance on the fringes of the tale. I would only caution the very younger side of the spectrum in the young adult range, as there are some graphic action scenes. But overall, I think readers both younger and older can enjoy this first-of-a-series.
Plot
With the blood pact threatening to turn Lyss against her own mind, she and the rarkyn embark on an adventure across the kingdom to seek out the help of stronger mancers of magic in the city of Illredus. There is nothing easy about their trek, and they are faced with many trying times and forces against their control. On top of that, they are being hunted, not just by the Order but also by the very man who trapped the rarkyn to begin with – rarkyn are intensely sought after for their Otherwordly magic and neither of them are safe on this trip. I turned page after page to see them on their way.
Intrigue
The uniqueness of this story pulled me right in from the very first page. There is a spring of world-building and character development that immersed me in a story I couldn’t put down. The Order on their tails was thrilling and the magic at word was enthralling. I was especially eager to see Lyss transform on the page from a timid girl to someone worth her salt, and while this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (kind of par for the course in a series) this took me on a ride I won’t soon forget.
Excitement
Excitement is an understatement! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am so eager to get into the pages of the next book! I am giving it some time for the author to release more about the third and final book in this trilogy, but I highly recommend this to all readers looking for an action and magic-packed adventure fantasy.
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