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A Reaper at the Gates

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Sabaa Tahir

A Reaper at the Gates

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

463

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

The Martial Empire • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL680L

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Super Short Summary

A Reaper at the Gates, the third book in Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes series, follows Laia, Elias, and Helene as they seek freedom for themselves and their people amidst a backdrop of political intrigue and supernatural conflict orchestrated by the Nightbringer, who plans to release the jinn and wreak havoc on the empire. This book includes scenes depicting domestic violence, mentions of sexual assault, physical and emotional torture, murder, and the brutality of war.

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Adventurous

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.3

108,577 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sabaa Tahir's A Reaper at the Gates captivates with compelling character development and high-stakes action. Reviewers praise the intricate plot and emotional depth but note occasional pacing issues and predictability. Despite these flaws, the novel's vivid world-building and intense narrative sustain its appeal. A must-read for series enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Reaper at the Gates?

Fans of thrilling and immersive YA fantasy will enjoy A Reaper at the Gates by Sabaa Tahir. Similar to Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard and Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas, readers who seek complex characters, high-stakes adventures, and richly developed worlds will find this book captivating.

4.3

108,577 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Helene (The Blood Shrike)

Helene is a key leader and enforcer in the Empire, caught between her duty and her personal connections. She navigates complex political dynamics while grappling with her evolving magical abilities.

A Scholar who remains empathetic despite the oppression faced by her people, Laia becomes increasingly pragmatic as she balances personal goals with the need to aid her fellow Scholars and allies.

Once a Mask and now the Soul Catcher, Elias struggles with his new role that requires detachment from humanity and his friends. His journey reflects themes of sacrifice and duty.

A powerful jinn king with a tragic past, the Nightbringer is driven by a complex blend of revenge and care for his people. His interactions with other characters are pivotal to the narrative’s tension.

Laia’s brother, who supports his sister’s mission while overcoming his own traumatic experiences. He aids in their collective struggle against common adversaries with his skills in making special weapons.

A cunning Scholar with fey abilities who employs his talents in espionage to support Laia and Darin. He remains emotionally tied to his estranged partner, Princess Nikla.

Helene’s dependable second-in-command and Elias’s half-brother, who plays a crucial role in supporting Helene’s efforts. His relationship with Helene develops respect and reliance.

Laia’s mother, burdened by a tragic past and a focus on revenge while hiding under the guise of Cook. Her complex motivations affect her relationship with her children.

The Emperor haunted by his own inner demons and past misdeeds. His interactions and family dynamics contribute to his unstable rule.

A jinn who acts as Elias’s mentor, guiding him in his new role as Soul Catcher. Her past reveals critical insights about the jinn and her personal regrets.

An ambitious and ruthless military leader with a tragic history, who is intent on conquering and ruling over all factions within the Empire and beyond.

Book Details
Pages

463

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

The Martial Empire • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

HL680L

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