Nightweaver by R.M. Gray is a spell-binding book, with pirates, bloodthirsty creatures, and dark magic. In a world where creatures called Nightweavers have taken over land and humanity has been forced to retreat to the sea, Aster Oberon and her family have been living as pirates for as long as she can remember. Other humans aren’t as lucky, as the ones on land have been subjected to enslavement and servitude, or worse. However one attack changes everything. When a ship of Nightweaver’s attacks them, they are forced to defend themselves and engage in battle. During the fight Aster’s oldest brother and best friend, Owen succumbs in battle. Her family is captured, unable to defeat the fearsome Nightweavers who wield powers unlikes she’s seen before. They are taken onto land, where a mysterious Nightweaver, Will, saves them from being sold off. Instead, they are given housing and protection in turn for servitude at his home. Much to Aster’s surprise, Nightweavers are more similar to humans, at least on the outside, than she had thought. Just as she thinks she’s safe, gruesome acts begin occurring to the people around her. She forms an unlikely friendship with Will as they work toward figuring out what’s happening and most importantly, avenging her brother.

This was a great read, with a rich world full of history and magic. The story centers on a strong heroine who will do anything to avenge her brother. We can see a lot of her thoughts throughout the story, as her feelings shift and change with her situation. Her frustration at being reduced to nothing more than a servant after once having been a pirate is very well written, and readers can almost feel her emotions vividly. Though other characters, specifically Aster’s family weren’t explored as much and more about them and their feelings would have been nice. There are several twists which make for an interesting read, especially toward the end. Some of the twists were clued at through the book, such as when it is revealed who has been committing the gruesome acts and why. While the start of the series is more slow and features more romance, later on we can see action and more plot developments. Romance is a big aspect as two possible love interests are introduced in the book, setting up for a potential love triangle in the second book which has yet to be released. While love triangles aren’t my favorite, I am curious to see how this plays out and wasn’t expecting the prince to be a potential love interest.

The ending leaves readers excited for the sequel and wondering what will happen next, with a promise of adventure and action. Readers who like love triangles, dark magic, and pirates will enjoy Nightweaver, the start to a thrilling series.

4/5 Stars