A Reaper at the Gates

Gr 8 Up-As war looms over the empire, Laia must stop the Nightbringer before he locates the final star to release the imprisoned jinn. Elias must learn to give up his mortal life, including Laia, and accept his duty as the soul catcher. Helene, the Blood Shrike, must save her sister from the vicious Emperor while stopping the Commandant's plan of world domination. In this installment, the trio are fighting separate battles but are also struggling with their own demons, including family legacy, duty, and sacrifice. New characters and lands make this entry a bit confusing, and although Elias was a pivotal character in the first volume, his story arc weighs down this book's plot. Helene, however, is the star of this entry. The Blood Shrike, as she is now called, confidently leads her troops into many deadly battles. She strategically plots and plans to take down the Emperor and the Commandant but makes mistakes, especially when it comes to her sister. This volume is unapologetically violent and bloody, with several cutthroat villains who use and abuse everyone in their way. The twists and turns contribute to the quick pace, and the final 100 pages will leave readers excited for the final installment.