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Neverwraith
Bel-Air meets Cloak & Dagger in this explosive and innovative paranormal debut…
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it.
Yasir Salah isn’t like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy. Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body.
Only it’s not just being at a new school. It’s a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he’s been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed…and keep his anger under control.
But they never warned him.
They never told him what he is.
And they sure as hell didn’t tell him that the world is gonna need him.
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it.
Yasir Salah isn’t like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy. Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body.
Only it’s not just being at a new school. It’s a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he’s been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed…and keep his anger under control.
But they never warned him.
They never told him what he is.
And they sure as hell didn’t tell him that the world is gonna need him.
400 pages, Paperback
Published August 29, 2023
10 people are currently reading
6293 people want to read
About the author
Shakir Rashaan
58 books274 followers“Every secret of a writer’s soul, every experience of his life, every quality of his mind, is written large in his works.” ~ Virginia Wolfe
Conjurer of worlds. Sorcerer. Man. Myth. Legend. Prototype.
All of these words describe Shakir Rashaan, who has been creating mind-twisting stories and lavish worlds for well over a decade, rolling onto the national literary scene as a contributor to Z-Rated: Chocolate Flava 3 in 2012. His raw, vivid, and uncut writing style captured the attention of the Queen of Erotica herself, Zane. A year later, Shakir’s debut novel with Strebor/Atria/Simon & Schuster, The Awakening, opened to rave reviews, while the follow-up in the Nubian Underworld series, Legacy, garnered even more success, and the third installment, Tempest, helping to make the series one of the most unique and best-selling in the erotic romance genre.
Rashaan would later add to his impressive catalog with the debut of the Kink, P.I. Series in 2015, starting with Obsession and following up with Deception and Reckoning. Drawing comparisons to Walter Mosely’s Easy Rawlins series, Kink, P.I. has developed into yet another best-selling series, carving its place as a “throwback to the days of classic mystery books” in the mystery genre.
Further adding to his impressive portfolio, Rashaan was a regular blogger for USA Today’s Happy Ever After blog, where readers could find him at his “Manly Musings” personal blog, reviewing books, television shows, and movies from a man’s perspective. He wrote recaps for various shows for the STARZ Network, including The Girlfriend Experience, POWER, and Survivor’s Remorse, before the blog was retired in late 2018.
Shakir has gone on in recent years to pen a series of bestselling novels, including In Service to the Senator, a sexy political thriller surrounding an up-and-coming vice presidential candidate, The Devil’s All-American, a unique paranormal romance featuring a rising college basketball star, Unthinkable, a not-so-conventional romance set in the entertainment industry, Love, Lust & Beautiful Liars, a romantic suspense novel about an international weapons dealer who was looking to retire and enjoy his HEA, and most recently in 2021, Queen of Cambridge, part of the Queens of the Castle anthology series.
Shakir has switched gears, jumping into the young adult world, developing the Neverwraith series, a YA paranormal fantasy for Entangled Teen/Macmillan, and the South Hampton series, in addition to several other YA and New Adult projects to expand his NEBU universe. Neverwraith is his most ambitious project to date, about a teenage descendant of an ancient metahuman bloodline who searches for the truth about the death of his parents and their connection to a centuries-old blood feud over sacred texts contained inside of his native Kindara, an island nation located near the West African coast ... all while navigating high school
Shakir currently resides in suburban Atlanta with his wife, soon-to-be college graduate daughter, and a Jack-Chi named Teddy.
Conjurer of worlds. Sorcerer. Man. Myth. Legend. Prototype.
All of these words describe Shakir Rashaan, who has been creating mind-twisting stories and lavish worlds for well over a decade, rolling onto the national literary scene as a contributor to Z-Rated: Chocolate Flava 3 in 2012. His raw, vivid, and uncut writing style captured the attention of the Queen of Erotica herself, Zane. A year later, Shakir’s debut novel with Strebor/Atria/Simon & Schuster, The Awakening, opened to rave reviews, while the follow-up in the Nubian Underworld series, Legacy, garnered even more success, and the third installment, Tempest, helping to make the series one of the most unique and best-selling in the erotic romance genre.
Rashaan would later add to his impressive catalog with the debut of the Kink, P.I. Series in 2015, starting with Obsession and following up with Deception and Reckoning. Drawing comparisons to Walter Mosely’s Easy Rawlins series, Kink, P.I. has developed into yet another best-selling series, carving its place as a “throwback to the days of classic mystery books” in the mystery genre.
Further adding to his impressive portfolio, Rashaan was a regular blogger for USA Today’s Happy Ever After blog, where readers could find him at his “Manly Musings” personal blog, reviewing books, television shows, and movies from a man’s perspective. He wrote recaps for various shows for the STARZ Network, including The Girlfriend Experience, POWER, and Survivor’s Remorse, before the blog was retired in late 2018.
Shakir has gone on in recent years to pen a series of bestselling novels, including In Service to the Senator, a sexy political thriller surrounding an up-and-coming vice presidential candidate, The Devil’s All-American, a unique paranormal romance featuring a rising college basketball star, Unthinkable, a not-so-conventional romance set in the entertainment industry, Love, Lust & Beautiful Liars, a romantic suspense novel about an international weapons dealer who was looking to retire and enjoy his HEA, and most recently in 2021, Queen of Cambridge, part of the Queens of the Castle anthology series.
Shakir has switched gears, jumping into the young adult world, developing the Neverwraith series, a YA paranormal fantasy for Entangled Teen/Macmillan, and the South Hampton series, in addition to several other YA and New Adult projects to expand his NEBU universe. Neverwraith is his most ambitious project to date, about a teenage descendant of an ancient metahuman bloodline who searches for the truth about the death of his parents and their connection to a centuries-old blood feud over sacred texts contained inside of his native Kindara, an island nation located near the West African coast ... all while navigating high school
Shakir currently resides in suburban Atlanta with his wife, soon-to-be college graduate daughter, and a Jack-Chi named Teddy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 20, 2023
Neverwraith is a mixed bag for me. On the one hand I love Yassir and the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air vibes. Man did that take me back. I really enjoyed the story itself and believe the next installment will be better.
That being said, I didn't enjoy the insta-romance or the repetition. Most often instant connections make sense, but the way this flowed didn't, or at least not for me. It felt rushed with little believability behind it.
Also, it felt like scenarios were either being retold or rehashed in monologue right after introduction...and too often. It disrupted the flow a lot for me and I would end up just skimming through the repetition.
Overall though, this is one readers will either love or not. It's not a bad start to the series and I would love to see what happens next. If this is on your radar, grab it and give it a go.
I sincerely appreciate Entangled Teen and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
That being said, I didn't enjoy the insta-romance or the repetition. Most often instant connections make sense, but the way this flowed didn't, or at least not for me. It felt rushed with little believability behind it.
Also, it felt like scenarios were either being retold or rehashed in monologue right after introduction...and too often. It disrupted the flow a lot for me and I would end up just skimming through the repetition.
Overall though, this is one readers will either love or not. It's not a bad start to the series and I would love to see what happens next. If this is on your radar, grab it and give it a go.
I sincerely appreciate Entangled Teen and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 24, 2025
Check out my review below
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
August 30, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing an eARC to review!
I couldn't really focus on what was going on because of the slang, which was completely unnecessary; no one wants to read a book like a gen Z text message. I'm sorry I have to say this, but it almost feels like the author googled "what do kids talk like nowadays" in an attempt to appeal to younger audiences.
I wasn't able to connect with the characters because everyone in this book is always starting a conflict. They pass each other by on the street and they literally start fighting. Most of the rivalries don't seem to have an obvious reason behind them, so it's just mindless kicking and punching at each other for no reason.
The instant love was so instant that I couldn't enjoy the romance at all. They saw each other, got together and that was that.
The dialogue is very repetitive and it doesn't help to get to learn new things or to develop the characters further. It's just a back and forth with no purpose.
The one thing I did enjoy is that the MMC is dealing with anxiety and it was described perfectly whenever he started feeling it.
I want to say that there is potential here but unfortunately, I don't see it. I'm not one to put down books and authors but this one was a real pain to get through and I have to be honest about it.
I couldn't really focus on what was going on because of the slang, which was completely unnecessary; no one wants to read a book like a gen Z text message. I'm sorry I have to say this, but it almost feels like the author googled "what do kids talk like nowadays" in an attempt to appeal to younger audiences.
I wasn't able to connect with the characters because everyone in this book is always starting a conflict. They pass each other by on the street and they literally start fighting. Most of the rivalries don't seem to have an obvious reason behind them, so it's just mindless kicking and punching at each other for no reason.
The instant love was so instant that I couldn't enjoy the romance at all. They saw each other, got together and that was that.
The dialogue is very repetitive and it doesn't help to get to learn new things or to develop the characters further. It's just a back and forth with no purpose.
The one thing I did enjoy is that the MMC is dealing with anxiety and it was described perfectly whenever he started feeling it.
I want to say that there is potential here but unfortunately, I don't see it. I'm not one to put down books and authors but this one was a real pain to get through and I have to be honest about it.
August 29, 2023
I think this book will resonate well with its intended audience. I wasn't sucked in and I wasn't feeling invested in our MC, but this book is a great start to what I imagine is going to be an epic series. Yasir is about to find out why he has been moved out to his uncle's house and that he can't escape his destiny to save his people. Weird things start happening to him and he keeps running into trouble, but Zahra is right there to pull him back. I really felt the second half of this book is where the pace sped up and set things into motion. I have no doubt that teenagers will absolutely devour this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing got sending me an ARC of this book!
I’m going to be so honest in this review. I saw the cover & I wanted it. I also heard it has some Marvel vibes & I was in. I was actually disappointed. If it wasn’t an ARC, I would have DNF’ed at the 90 pages mark.
I’m going to list below my pros & cons for this book.
Pros:
-There’s a Male Main Character. I don’t find that I read a lot of books from a male’s pov so that was fun ans exciting.
-Talks of Anxiety. It was good to see representation of anxiety from a big scale to a smaller one. This book starts with panic attacks & the mmc trying to cope. It also covers being anxious of saying the wrong thing.
-I enjoyed the Nyxwraith and the origin of it. I liked that the author had a protector for someone who went through trauma. I like that it was always there & stepped in when Yasir really needed him.
-I really like Nana. Her character was the only one who genuinely intrigued me and I wanted to know more about.
Cons:
-The slang was a lot in this book. I didn’t mind a lot of it, but some of the phrases were very overused and started to feel like an adult trying to fit in with a younger crowd. For example: “cap”, “applying pressure”, “lit”.
-Throughout the book there are constant fights & I never understood why they were happening. It seemed very random and I was hoping to learn a motive after and I never did.
-I wasn’t even sure if there was a supernatural element for half of the book. Strange things kept happening but it was breezed over and I had no clue what was happening.
-The characters felt like they have no depth. I know very little about any of them. Their personalities aren’t fleshed out. I think they all needed character development & substance.
-The teenage love story in this book is instant love. I don’t necessarily hate this trope, but when they just met and they’re obsessed with the other and dumping their lives to each other, it’s a miss for me.
-Instead of going to get answers, he stays in town. Yasir learns he needs to talk to his Nana, but its way later in the book he does that. It feels like a waste because nothing super important happens between those two plot points. He should have went after he called his Nana.
-The rivalry between Ian & Yasir makes no sense. They just make each other mad but don’t explain why.
-The Squad’s drama was random and thrown in. It stopped the flow of what we just learned about.
-The main character’s love story was wishy washy. They’d blow up & say they need space & two sentences later by like “no i want you i didn’t mean it”.
-Quite literally nothing was resolved by the end. Not one storyline was wrapped up.
-The storyline had no flow and the plot was honestly all over the place.
This book was a cool idea, but it was very much not for me.
I’m going to be so honest in this review. I saw the cover & I wanted it. I also heard it has some Marvel vibes & I was in. I was actually disappointed. If it wasn’t an ARC, I would have DNF’ed at the 90 pages mark.
I’m going to list below my pros & cons for this book.
Pros:
-There’s a Male Main Character. I don’t find that I read a lot of books from a male’s pov so that was fun ans exciting.
-Talks of Anxiety. It was good to see representation of anxiety from a big scale to a smaller one. This book starts with panic attacks & the mmc trying to cope. It also covers being anxious of saying the wrong thing.
-I enjoyed the Nyxwraith and the origin of it. I liked that the author had a protector for someone who went through trauma. I like that it was always there & stepped in when Yasir really needed him.
-I really like Nana. Her character was the only one who genuinely intrigued me and I wanted to know more about.
Cons:
-The slang was a lot in this book. I didn’t mind a lot of it, but some of the phrases were very overused and started to feel like an adult trying to fit in with a younger crowd. For example: “cap”, “applying pressure”, “lit”.
-Throughout the book there are constant fights & I never understood why they were happening. It seemed very random and I was hoping to learn a motive after and I never did.
-I wasn’t even sure if there was a supernatural element for half of the book. Strange things kept happening but it was breezed over and I had no clue what was happening.
-The characters felt like they have no depth. I know very little about any of them. Their personalities aren’t fleshed out. I think they all needed character development & substance.
-The teenage love story in this book is instant love. I don’t necessarily hate this trope, but when they just met and they’re obsessed with the other and dumping their lives to each other, it’s a miss for me.
-Instead of going to get answers, he stays in town. Yasir learns he needs to talk to his Nana, but its way later in the book he does that. It feels like a waste because nothing super important happens between those two plot points. He should have went after he called his Nana.
-The rivalry between Ian & Yasir makes no sense. They just make each other mad but don’t explain why.
-The Squad’s drama was random and thrown in. It stopped the flow of what we just learned about.
-The main character’s love story was wishy washy. They’d blow up & say they need space & two sentences later by like “no i want you i didn’t mean it”.
-Quite literally nothing was resolved by the end. Not one storyline was wrapped up.
-The storyline had no flow and the plot was honestly all over the place.
This book was a cool idea, but it was very much not for me.
August 19, 2023
I absolutely adore the cover of this book. I’m for sure one of those readers that the cover the book can make a difference if I’m going to wanna read it or not. The cover is my favorite color and those claw gashes for sure is a a bold statement one what I can expect in this book.( and I was wrong)
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it. Yasir Salah isn't like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy.
Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…..or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body. Only it's not just being at a new school. It's a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he's been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed..and keep his anger under control. But they never warned him. They never told him what he is. And they sure as hell didn't tell him that the world is gonna need him.
This book started off on a rocky road for me, I couldn’t even tell you what the main character looked like and his love interest connection really made no sense. It happened super quickly and wasn’t really given time to marinate. And to read some of their conversations had me confused on the information they were sharing with each other. They knew each other for like 2 seconds. I wasn’t really invested in their relationship or the main character for the first 20% of the book. I found myself speeding and skipping parts to get to the meat of the story.
After soldiering on for another 10% I decided to just not finish this book. My overall opinion is that maybe I’m not this books targeted audience, I find myself getting irritated with how the dialogue a structured. I had no investments in to the characters, and I’d rather be reading a different book.
DNF
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a ARC for a honest review
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it. Yasir Salah isn't like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy.
Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…..or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body. Only it's not just being at a new school. It's a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he's been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed..and keep his anger under control. But they never warned him. They never told him what he is. And they sure as hell didn't tell him that the world is gonna need him.
This book started off on a rocky road for me, I couldn’t even tell you what the main character looked like and his love interest connection really made no sense. It happened super quickly and wasn’t really given time to marinate. And to read some of their conversations had me confused on the information they were sharing with each other. They knew each other for like 2 seconds. I wasn’t really invested in their relationship or the main character for the first 20% of the book. I found myself speeding and skipping parts to get to the meat of the story.
After soldiering on for another 10% I decided to just not finish this book. My overall opinion is that maybe I’m not this books targeted audience, I find myself getting irritated with how the dialogue a structured. I had no investments in to the characters, and I’d rather be reading a different book.
DNF
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a ARC for a honest review
November 19, 2025
So I may not do a full review on this one, because this is an older version of the more updated story "Sageborn" by the same author. I read both books to see what changes were made to the narrative overall. I can definitely tell the updates, but it feels similar enough not to write two separate reviews.
However, I think my critiques of this are that this had distinct pacing issues that I really struggled with. The magic and lore took a while to show up, and often the tension was cut by, surpringly, drawn out scenes of day to day events that could have been streamlined better. I didn't feel like I was as invested in the characters as I hoped to be.
I'll go in more detail in my review of Sageborn, but this is probably a 2-star read for me.
Overall score: 2/5 stars.
However, I think my critiques of this are that this had distinct pacing issues that I really struggled with. The magic and lore took a while to show up, and often the tension was cut by, surpringly, drawn out scenes of day to day events that could have been streamlined better. I didn't feel like I was as invested in the characters as I hoped to be.
I'll go in more detail in my review of Sageborn, but this is probably a 2-star read for me.
Overall score: 2/5 stars.
September 29, 2023
“You will need every resource at your disposal to get you through. But make no mistake, before this is all over…it may take a monster to save us all.”
It was announced Shakir Rashaan’s Neverwraith was being published about a year before it actually was. When that announcement was made, I knew I had to read the book. At the time, the teaser blurb was imagining The Incredible Hulk in high school. I so wanted to read that story. Throughout the writing process, the story changed and readers are now being asked to picture a mashup of Bel-Air and Cloak & Dagger. I personally think Neverwraith encompasses the Hulk, Bel-Air, Cloak & Dagger, as well as several other superhero-type stories.
Fearing for his life, seventeen-year-old Yasir Salah’s grandmother sends him from their home in Atlanta, Georgia to stay with his uncle Xavion in Oakwood Grove, a suburb of Savannah. Being the new kid is tough, but for Yasir his first day is downright awful, when the self-proclaimed resident king of Oakwood Grove High School, Ian Lance, makes it a point to harass him for no reason. This sets off a frenemies relationship that continues throughout the book. For Yasir, affectionately known as Ya-Ya, the highlight of his day is meeting Zahra Assante. Zahra introduces Yasir to her friends, who quickly become his friends and the two eventually become a couple. While Yasir appears to be settling in, something inside of him is growing and coming to life. Something Yasir doesn’t understand or can control. All he knows is that what’s inside of him is strong and full of rage.
Shakir’s creativity definitely shines through in his storytelling of Neverwraith. The world-building is phenomenal, with characters who can be relatable. The urban vibe is strong. In fact, all the characters are black and have a very rich history that hasn’t fully been revealed yet. Shakir’s writing allows you to be immersed in the story.
To say Neverwraith was an amazingly frustrating story would be the understatement of the year. Shakir doesn’t lay everything out for you. He slowly gives you small pieces of the overall big picture. He makes you think and guess as to what is happening. If I have to be honest with myself (because I really don’t want to), I really love that I have all of these thoughts about what’s happening with no signs that my assumptions are right. What I know is: Neverwraith is a violent story, Yasir has been pushed to his limit and is scared (he totally should be), events that have happened so far will not come close to the events yet to come, and the next book in this series is going to be epic, while answering some questions but potentially revealing more questions.
I’m excited for what’s to come and can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I can not stress enough what a brilliant writer and storyteller Shakir Rashaan is. Neverwraith is definitely a story I will read again. I know there are little details I missed, which will help with the overall puzzle that is Yasir and his life.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“I don’t break easy.”
“Tough times don’t last. Tough people do.”
“Whatever energy you give, I’m returning it, with interest. It’s up to you to figure out how I treat you.”
“Things have a way of working themselves out.”
“You have more power than you realize.”
“I’m not anyone special. I’m simply doing me.”
“If a person can’t embrace their past, they can’t possibly have a future.”
“We all try to figure out how to fit in.”
“Quitting is not an option.”
“Questions deserve answers.”
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
“No one can handle anything alone.”
“Every day might not always be good, but there is always something good in every day.”
“If you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a paperback copy of the book**
It was announced Shakir Rashaan’s Neverwraith was being published about a year before it actually was. When that announcement was made, I knew I had to read the book. At the time, the teaser blurb was imagining The Incredible Hulk in high school. I so wanted to read that story. Throughout the writing process, the story changed and readers are now being asked to picture a mashup of Bel-Air and Cloak & Dagger. I personally think Neverwraith encompasses the Hulk, Bel-Air, Cloak & Dagger, as well as several other superhero-type stories.
Fearing for his life, seventeen-year-old Yasir Salah’s grandmother sends him from their home in Atlanta, Georgia to stay with his uncle Xavion in Oakwood Grove, a suburb of Savannah. Being the new kid is tough, but for Yasir his first day is downright awful, when the self-proclaimed resident king of Oakwood Grove High School, Ian Lance, makes it a point to harass him for no reason. This sets off a frenemies relationship that continues throughout the book. For Yasir, affectionately known as Ya-Ya, the highlight of his day is meeting Zahra Assante. Zahra introduces Yasir to her friends, who quickly become his friends and the two eventually become a couple. While Yasir appears to be settling in, something inside of him is growing and coming to life. Something Yasir doesn’t understand or can control. All he knows is that what’s inside of him is strong and full of rage.
Shakir’s creativity definitely shines through in his storytelling of Neverwraith. The world-building is phenomenal, with characters who can be relatable. The urban vibe is strong. In fact, all the characters are black and have a very rich history that hasn’t fully been revealed yet. Shakir’s writing allows you to be immersed in the story.
To say Neverwraith was an amazingly frustrating story would be the understatement of the year. Shakir doesn’t lay everything out for you. He slowly gives you small pieces of the overall big picture. He makes you think and guess as to what is happening. If I have to be honest with myself (because I really don’t want to), I really love that I have all of these thoughts about what’s happening with no signs that my assumptions are right. What I know is: Neverwraith is a violent story, Yasir has been pushed to his limit and is scared (he totally should be), events that have happened so far will not come close to the events yet to come, and the next book in this series is going to be epic, while answering some questions but potentially revealing more questions.
I’m excited for what’s to come and can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I can not stress enough what a brilliant writer and storyteller Shakir Rashaan is. Neverwraith is definitely a story I will read again. I know there are little details I missed, which will help with the overall puzzle that is Yasir and his life.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“I don’t break easy.”
“Tough times don’t last. Tough people do.”
“Whatever energy you give, I’m returning it, with interest. It’s up to you to figure out how I treat you.”
“Things have a way of working themselves out.”
“You have more power than you realize.”
“I’m not anyone special. I’m simply doing me.”
“If a person can’t embrace their past, they can’t possibly have a future.”
“We all try to figure out how to fit in.”
“Quitting is not an option.”
“Questions deserve answers.”
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
“No one can handle anything alone.”
“Every day might not always be good, but there is always something good in every day.”
“If you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it. Also personally purchased a paperback copy of the book**
September 11, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed in ARC of Neverwraith. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I wanted to like this book so much, I understand the lingo used throughout but the story just wasn't there for me. If it was in a different setting, not a high school, I probably would have connected with it more-- mainly because of what the story was trying to do. There were conversations that seemed extremely out of character for an almost seventeen year old. There was A LOT of car talk throughout and between that and other repetitive sections (character says/see something then one-to-two paragraphs later they summarize what just happened) it just took me out of the book. The overarching plot line seemed cool and I'll still be interested in other work by this author, just not this book. All that to be said, this book might be a five star book for someone-- I hope it is.
I wanted to like this book so much, I understand the lingo used throughout but the story just wasn't there for me. If it was in a different setting, not a high school, I probably would have connected with it more-- mainly because of what the story was trying to do. There were conversations that seemed extremely out of character for an almost seventeen year old. There was A LOT of car talk throughout and between that and other repetitive sections (character says/see something then one-to-two paragraphs later they summarize what just happened) it just took me out of the book. The overarching plot line seemed cool and I'll still be interested in other work by this author, just not this book. All that to be said, this book might be a five star book for someone-- I hope it is.
August 25, 2023
When I read the blurb I thought about The Extraordinaires (I loved that series) but it was just an impression as this is an original and well plotted novel that wishing I could read the next story soon.
Yasir had to leave Atlanta and move to a small town with his uncles. Something his happening and some powers are developing. His uncle his helping him but there's still a lot of questions and I want to know what will be next.
Entertaining, original, well plotted.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Yasir had to leave Atlanta and move to a small town with his uncles. Something his happening and some powers are developing. His uncle his helping him but there's still a lot of questions and I want to know what will be next.
Entertaining, original, well plotted.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
August 27, 2023
2.75/5 stars! Hmm...what to say about this story? The cover is purple, which is cool? Some younger readers may appreciate it. But there was nothing about this story that made it stand out as a new or unique idea. This just felt more like a middle school read, than a determined YA story. It felt young and underdeveloped. Would possibly check out the sequel to see if it improves.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 1, 2023
The mystery of Yasir will keep readers guessing and turning pages to see where him and Zhara somehow fit into our world.
I believe this book will resonate with most the teens that read it. For me, it was a bit young and the “teen speak” became too much. I’m also not a fan of instant romance, so that took me quite a bit to grasp. But that being said, the second half sped up well and the mystery was fun. I recommend this to all teen fantasy lovers!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the copy!
I believe this book will resonate with most the teens that read it. For me, it was a bit young and the “teen speak” became too much. I’m also not a fan of instant romance, so that took me quite a bit to grasp. But that being said, the second half sped up well and the mystery was fun. I recommend this to all teen fantasy lovers!
Thank you Entangled Teen for the copy!
September 1, 2023
If you like insta-love action and paranormal romance then this book is for you! I enjoyed reading this and hope the next book continues with the epic building this series seems to be.
August 15, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley, Shakir Rashaan and Entangled Publishing for this ARC.
Neverwraith is book 1 in the series.
I was quite disappointed with this book. I thought it sounded pretty good when I read the description and there were parts of the story that reminded me of The Vampire Diaries and Fast and Furious. There was a lot of slang in the dialogue which also made things confusing. The ending didn't feel like an ending, I was expecting to find out something more; there were many important questions which led to nowhere!
Neverwraith is book 1 in the series.
I was quite disappointed with this book. I thought it sounded pretty good when I read the description and there were parts of the story that reminded me of The Vampire Diaries and Fast and Furious. There was a lot of slang in the dialogue which also made things confusing. The ending didn't feel like an ending, I was expecting to find out something more; there were many important questions which led to nowhere!
August 11, 2023
This book isn’t for me. I honestly can’t imagine there is an intended audience that it would resonate with, not even YA or upper YA.
I didn’t care for the writing style, I never found a plot, the characters aren’t memorable and the dialogue is terrible. I didn’t know it was possible to write a novel using lingo like obvi, cap, deets, and deadass in regular, reoccurring conversation and phrases like applying pressure and heat to express things like tension etc…I understand this is supposed to be urban fantasy but seriously?
Entangled has had some really good novels as of late but this is not one of them.
Do better, Entangled.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I didn’t care for the writing style, I never found a plot, the characters aren’t memorable and the dialogue is terrible. I didn’t know it was possible to write a novel using lingo like obvi, cap, deets, and deadass in regular, reoccurring conversation and phrases like applying pressure and heat to express things like tension etc…I understand this is supposed to be urban fantasy but seriously?
Entangled has had some really good novels as of late but this is not one of them.
Do better, Entangled.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 16, 2023
Shakir's first in this YA series proves his ability to convert more people to the fantasy genre, one captivating book at a time. I love Dystopian, but "Neverwraith" was worth the leap into paranormal.
Before Neverwraith, my literary journey rarely delved into the supernatural. Yet, drawn by Shakir's reputation for crafting immersive narratives from his other books. I embraced the chance to explore a different realm. "Neverwraith" unfolds the tale of Yasir, a young man uprooted from his Atlanta home due to an unknown danger, finding refuge with his uncle in Savannah, Georgia. Amidst this unfamiliar backdrop, Yasir encounters the alluring Zahra, a girl whose attraction goes far beyond her beauty and intellect.
Rather than summarizing the plot, allow me to share my impressions as I traversed the pages of this book. From the very first chapter, it grabbed me — unable to put the book down. The words paint vivid imagery, and the meticulous world-building crafts an environment so bold that reading becomes a hologram-like experience that transported me into a realm where time and space dissolve as the narrative unfolds.
Shakir's expertise is clear. "Neverwraith" transports us to Savannah and Kindara, which evoke Wakanda's allure.
For someone with an affinity for lifelike fables and the mystical, Yasir's origin story resonated. His journey, rife with trials and tribulations, serves as a catapult on his rise towards self-discovery and greatness. Yasir's path left me wanting to know more about his past while excited to witness his further elevation.
The narrative's pace, while a little fast for me, caters to its intended audience—the youth. Shakir's language, rhythm, and flow harmonize to interest young readers, compelling them to be absorbed by the story from beginning to end. This is quintessential young adult fiction, tailor-made to captivate the younger demographic. However, older readers seeking to immerse themselves in the vernacular may revisit sections to get the full meaning.
The characters in "Neverwraith" are intriguing. Shakir makes us want to know who makes us want to know more, yet without making us too attached. Finishing the last page left me yearning for more information about their lives. As I impatiently wait for the next installment, it's apparent that this book's appeal will transcend boundaries. While it will captivate young readers from all walks of life, its magnetic pull will resonate, especially among people of color. Grab your copy today!
NeverwraithShakir Rashaan
Before Neverwraith, my literary journey rarely delved into the supernatural. Yet, drawn by Shakir's reputation for crafting immersive narratives from his other books. I embraced the chance to explore a different realm. "Neverwraith" unfolds the tale of Yasir, a young man uprooted from his Atlanta home due to an unknown danger, finding refuge with his uncle in Savannah, Georgia. Amidst this unfamiliar backdrop, Yasir encounters the alluring Zahra, a girl whose attraction goes far beyond her beauty and intellect.
Rather than summarizing the plot, allow me to share my impressions as I traversed the pages of this book. From the very first chapter, it grabbed me — unable to put the book down. The words paint vivid imagery, and the meticulous world-building crafts an environment so bold that reading becomes a hologram-like experience that transported me into a realm where time and space dissolve as the narrative unfolds.
Shakir's expertise is clear. "Neverwraith" transports us to Savannah and Kindara, which evoke Wakanda's allure.
For someone with an affinity for lifelike fables and the mystical, Yasir's origin story resonated. His journey, rife with trials and tribulations, serves as a catapult on his rise towards self-discovery and greatness. Yasir's path left me wanting to know more about his past while excited to witness his further elevation.
The narrative's pace, while a little fast for me, caters to its intended audience—the youth. Shakir's language, rhythm, and flow harmonize to interest young readers, compelling them to be absorbed by the story from beginning to end. This is quintessential young adult fiction, tailor-made to captivate the younger demographic. However, older readers seeking to immerse themselves in the vernacular may revisit sections to get the full meaning.
The characters in "Neverwraith" are intriguing. Shakir makes us want to know who makes us want to know more, yet without making us too attached. Finishing the last page left me yearning for more information about their lives. As I impatiently wait for the next installment, it's apparent that this book's appeal will transcend boundaries. While it will captivate young readers from all walks of life, its magnetic pull will resonate, especially among people of color. Grab your copy today!
NeverwraithShakir Rashaan
August 20, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed in ARC of Neverwraith. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Shakir's YA debut proves his ability to convert more people to the fantasy genre, one captivating book at a time. I love Dystopian, but "Neverwraith" was worth the leap into paranormal.
Before Neverwraith, my literary journey rarely delved into the supernatural. Yet, drawn by Shakir's reputation for crafting immersive narratives from his other books. I embraced the chance to explore a different realm. "Neverwraith" unfolds the tale of Yasir, a young man uprooted from his Atlanta home due to an unknown danger, finding refuge with his uncle in Savannah, Georgia. Amidst this unfamiliar backdrop, Yasir encounters the alluring Zahra, a girl whose attraction goes far beyond her beauty and intellect.
Rather than summarizing the plot, allow me to share my impressions as I traversed the pages of this book. From the very first chapter, it grabbed me — unable to put the book down. The words paint vivid imagery, and the meticulous world-building crafts an environment so bold that reading becomes a hologram-like experience that transported me into a realm where time and space dissolve as the narrative unfolds.
Shakir's expertise is clear. "Neverwraith" transports us to Savannah and Kindara, which evoke Wakanda's allure.
For someone with an affinity for lifelike fables and the mystical, Yasir's origin story resonated. His journey, rife with trials and tribulations, serves as a catapult on his rise toward self-discovery and greatness. Yasir's path left me wanting to know more about his past while excited to witness his further elevation.
The narrative's pace, while a little fast for me, caters to its intended audience—the youth. Shakir's language, rhythm, and flow harmonize to interest young readers, compelling them to be absorbed by the story from beginning to end. This is quintessential young adult fiction, tailor-made to captivate the younger demographic. However, older readers seeking to immerse themselves in the vernacular may revisit sections to get the full meaning.
The characters in "Neverwraith" are intriguing. Shakir makes us want to know who makes us want to know more, yet without making us too attached. Finishing the last page left me yearning for more information about their lives. As I impatiently wait for the next installment, it's apparent that this book's appeal will transcend boundaries. While it will captivate young readers from all walks of life, its magnetic pull will resonate, especially among people of color. Grab your copy today!
Shakir's YA debut proves his ability to convert more people to the fantasy genre, one captivating book at a time. I love Dystopian, but "Neverwraith" was worth the leap into paranormal.
Before Neverwraith, my literary journey rarely delved into the supernatural. Yet, drawn by Shakir's reputation for crafting immersive narratives from his other books. I embraced the chance to explore a different realm. "Neverwraith" unfolds the tale of Yasir, a young man uprooted from his Atlanta home due to an unknown danger, finding refuge with his uncle in Savannah, Georgia. Amidst this unfamiliar backdrop, Yasir encounters the alluring Zahra, a girl whose attraction goes far beyond her beauty and intellect.
Rather than summarizing the plot, allow me to share my impressions as I traversed the pages of this book. From the very first chapter, it grabbed me — unable to put the book down. The words paint vivid imagery, and the meticulous world-building crafts an environment so bold that reading becomes a hologram-like experience that transported me into a realm where time and space dissolve as the narrative unfolds.
Shakir's expertise is clear. "Neverwraith" transports us to Savannah and Kindara, which evoke Wakanda's allure.
For someone with an affinity for lifelike fables and the mystical, Yasir's origin story resonated. His journey, rife with trials and tribulations, serves as a catapult on his rise toward self-discovery and greatness. Yasir's path left me wanting to know more about his past while excited to witness his further elevation.
The narrative's pace, while a little fast for me, caters to its intended audience—the youth. Shakir's language, rhythm, and flow harmonize to interest young readers, compelling them to be absorbed by the story from beginning to end. This is quintessential young adult fiction, tailor-made to captivate the younger demographic. However, older readers seeking to immerse themselves in the vernacular may revisit sections to get the full meaning.
The characters in "Neverwraith" are intriguing. Shakir makes us want to know who makes us want to know more, yet without making us too attached. Finishing the last page left me yearning for more information about their lives. As I impatiently wait for the next installment, it's apparent that this book's appeal will transcend boundaries. While it will captivate young readers from all walks of life, its magnetic pull will resonate, especially among people of color. Grab your copy today!
August 19, 2023
I absolutely adore the cover of this book. I’m for sure one of those readers that the cover the book can make a difference if I’m going to wanna read it or not. The cover is my favorite color and those claw gashes for sure is a a bold statement one what I can expect in this book.( and I was wrong)
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it. Yasir Salah isn't like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy.
Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…..or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body. Only it's not just being at a new school. It's a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he's been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed..and keep his anger under control. But they never warned him. They never told him what he is. And they sure as hell didn't tell him that the world is gonna need him.
This book started off on a rocky road for me, I couldn’t even tell you what the main character looked like and his love interest connection really made no sense. It happened super quickly and wasn’t really given time to marinate. And to read some of their conversations had me confused on the information they were sharing with each other. They knew each other for like 2 seconds. I wasn’t really invested in their relationship or the main character for the first 20% of the book. I found myself speeding and skipping parts to get to the meat of the story.
After soldiering on for another 10% I decided to just not finish this book. My overall opinion is that maybe I’m not this box targeted audience, I find myself getting irritated with how the dialogue a structured. I had no investments in to the characters, and I’d rather be reading a different book.
DNF
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a ARC for a honest review
Being the new kid is always gonna land you in it. Yasir Salah isn't like the other guys in his new suburban Georgia high school. Lately, he can feel something shifting in his body. Raw. Edgy.
Volatile . Like his eyes changing colors and heat on his skin when some alpha bro comes for him…..or how just a grin from the gorgeous, untouchable girl at school sends vibrations shooting through his entire body. Only it's not just being at a new school. It's a new town. New rules. New flow . And everything feels way smaller than his ex-life in Atlanta. All he can do is what he's been keep a low profile and try to not be noticed..and keep his anger under control. But they never warned him. They never told him what he is. And they sure as hell didn't tell him that the world is gonna need him.
This book started off on a rocky road for me, I couldn’t even tell you what the main character looked like and his love interest connection really made no sense. It happened super quickly and wasn’t really given time to marinate. And to read some of their conversations had me confused on the information they were sharing with each other. They knew each other for like 2 seconds. I wasn’t really invested in their relationship or the main character for the first 20% of the book. I found myself speeding and skipping parts to get to the meat of the story.
After soldiering on for another 10% I decided to just not finish this book. My overall opinion is that maybe I’m not this box targeted audience, I find myself getting irritated with how the dialogue a structured. I had no investments in to the characters, and I’d rather be reading a different book.
DNF
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a ARC for a honest review
August 9, 2023
This was a fantastic young adult story which was really good. I thought this author did a fabulous job writing outside of his normal genre and I notice the difference in the writing styles, however I did not know that this was a genre he had always wanted to write either.
I want to thank Netgalley and Shakir Rashaan for the opportunity to read this book and give an honest review.
I’ve never thought I would enjoy a YA book as I did this one. The story felt like I was back in high school with my fellow classmates who kept up with drama and caused issues throughout school for some people.
Yasir (Ya-Ya) had somethings going on within himself that he could not explain to anyone, not even his Nana who received him as a babe. His Nana raised him, however she also had to send him to live with his mother’s brother which is his uncle due to some circumstances he knew nothing about. He lost both his parents at a very early age and not knowing anything about his heritage or where he was from was a struggle, but he endured those things for some time.
Now he’s the new kid in school and everyone can see that he’s new and trying to stay to himself. He meets other kids, but Zahra is the girl who catches his sight out of all the other girls and instantly there is a connection somehow. Things start building up and getting interesting as you read the story and I couldn’t seem to put this book down.
I wasn’t too sure on what would happen until later on in the story. I want to say that this book had a comic feel with fantasy and a bit paranormal vibe. I would love to read the next book connecting to this story, but I’m sure I will have to re-read the ending to catch the next book.
Although this book leave a cliffhanger at the end, I won’t write too much in this review, but I would recommend this story for those who like YA stories.
I want to thank Netgalley and Shakir Rashaan for the opportunity to read this book and give an honest review.
I’ve never thought I would enjoy a YA book as I did this one. The story felt like I was back in high school with my fellow classmates who kept up with drama and caused issues throughout school for some people.
Yasir (Ya-Ya) had somethings going on within himself that he could not explain to anyone, not even his Nana who received him as a babe. His Nana raised him, however she also had to send him to live with his mother’s brother which is his uncle due to some circumstances he knew nothing about. He lost both his parents at a very early age and not knowing anything about his heritage or where he was from was a struggle, but he endured those things for some time.
Now he’s the new kid in school and everyone can see that he’s new and trying to stay to himself. He meets other kids, but Zahra is the girl who catches his sight out of all the other girls and instantly there is a connection somehow. Things start building up and getting interesting as you read the story and I couldn’t seem to put this book down.
I wasn’t too sure on what would happen until later on in the story. I want to say that this book had a comic feel with fantasy and a bit paranormal vibe. I would love to read the next book connecting to this story, but I’m sure I will have to re-read the ending to catch the next book.
Although this book leave a cliffhanger at the end, I won’t write too much in this review, but I would recommend this story for those who like YA stories.
September 20, 2024
While I didn't completely hate this book, I didn't like this very much. This book felt like it didn't really know what it wanted to be. The fantasy, romance and YA-ness of it all didn't mesh well together. Had this just been a romance for boys, I think it could've been something interesting. The fantasy elements felt so under thought, like they were added in at the last minute. I found myself just not caring about Kindara or anything related to it, especially since Yasir didn't have a deep enough connection to the country. How am I supposed to care if Yasir doesn't or couldn't?
This felt like a first draft that Rashaan sent in for developmental editing and the publisher sent it to print instead. There was so much that could've been cut or reworked. A book over 400 pages shouldn't feel so empty and meandering. By the time we learn anything about Yasir's power, the book is nearly over. We spent way too much time with Yasir and co. doing typical teenage things that I forgot I was reading a fantasy. Then the fantasy part kept getting in the way because I just couldn't bring myself to care. The romance was okay but a bit intense and I didn't feel like it was set up correctly. Nothing really felt like it had the correct foundation to make it all work.
I like some parts of it but the dots just didn't connect the way they were supposed to. I actually wouldn't mind if Rashaan reworked this at some point in the future. I think with more time and experience and editing, this could be something. I don't think this book is in the right state to recommend it. Maybe to writers who want to read all kinds of writing to aid the development of their own talents. But for fun? Nah.
This felt like a first draft that Rashaan sent in for developmental editing and the publisher sent it to print instead. There was so much that could've been cut or reworked. A book over 400 pages shouldn't feel so empty and meandering. By the time we learn anything about Yasir's power, the book is nearly over. We spent way too much time with Yasir and co. doing typical teenage things that I forgot I was reading a fantasy. Then the fantasy part kept getting in the way because I just couldn't bring myself to care. The romance was okay but a bit intense and I didn't feel like it was set up correctly. Nothing really felt like it had the correct foundation to make it all work.
I like some parts of it but the dots just didn't connect the way they were supposed to. I actually wouldn't mind if Rashaan reworked this at some point in the future. I think with more time and experience and editing, this could be something. I don't think this book is in the right state to recommend it. Maybe to writers who want to read all kinds of writing to aid the development of their own talents. But for fun? Nah.
August 29, 2023
Neverwraith not only delivers on its promise to be an explosive and innovative paranormal story, but it also touches on themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the realization of one's true potential. The story seamlessly blends elements of Bel-Air's edge, wit and charm with the intrigue of Cloak & Dagger. Rashaan's debut YA novel skillfully combines the paranormal elements of Yasir's shifting powers with the challenges and relatable struggles of being a teenager in an unfamiliar environment. This is a promising start to a thrilling series that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Yasir Salah, the new kid in a suburban Georgia high school, finds himself grappling with a strange and unsettling transformation within his body. Rashaan masterfully captures the raw emotions and intense physical changes Yasir experiences, from encounters with alpha males to unexpected attractions, making the story come alive.
As Yasir navigates the unfamiliar territory of a new town with its own set of rules, he discovers hidden truths about his identity and a frightening responsibility that awaits him. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers into his world, allowing them to feel the heat on Yasir's skin and experience the intensity of his emotions. Rashaan's innovative storytelling and dynamic characters make Neverwraith a captivating read from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down!
-- Naleighna Kai, USA TODAY Bestselling author
Yasir Salah, the new kid in a suburban Georgia high school, finds himself grappling with a strange and unsettling transformation within his body. Rashaan masterfully captures the raw emotions and intense physical changes Yasir experiences, from encounters with alpha males to unexpected attractions, making the story come alive.
As Yasir navigates the unfamiliar territory of a new town with its own set of rules, he discovers hidden truths about his identity and a frightening responsibility that awaits him. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers into his world, allowing them to feel the heat on Yasir's skin and experience the intensity of his emotions. Rashaan's innovative storytelling and dynamic characters make Neverwraith a captivating read from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down!
-- Naleighna Kai, USA TODAY Bestselling author
dnf
September 19, 2023thank you to Entangled Teen Publishing and Netgalley for an eARC of this book 💜
what I read of this book wasn’t necessarily bad…it just didn’t feel right for me! however, this could very well be the book for you. I don’t usually review books that I dnf so I’m gonna post some quotes instead!
1. Today was a lot, and I’m feeling a little overwhelmed by it all. “I miss you so much. I wish you and Dad were here. I need you.”
I keep driving down the road, and I don’t know whether there’s something in the wind or if I want my wish to come true so badly that my mind’s playing tricks on me, but I feel a pair of lips kiss my cheek and something like a hand touch my shoulder.
We are always here with you, Ya-Ya. Mommy loves you so much.
We are here with you, my son… I promise.
2. I stop for a few seconds, completely focused on her, unable to move. She’s so pretty, no wonder I have so much trouble talking to her. I mean, look at her.
3. Still, there’s something about a STEM girl. If you know, you know.
4. I close my eyes to bask in the warmth of the waning heat of the sinking sun. Nothing else matters. Not the insanity of being in yet another new high school, not the anger of being away from the A, not even my rising angst over whether Zahra would hit me up to talk. The sunset provides a simple lesson: Don’t rush. Stressing won’t change its outcome. Things have a way of working themselves out.
what I read of this book wasn’t necessarily bad…it just didn’t feel right for me! however, this could very well be the book for you. I don’t usually review books that I dnf so I’m gonna post some quotes instead!
1. Today was a lot, and I’m feeling a little overwhelmed by it all. “I miss you so much. I wish you and Dad were here. I need you.”
I keep driving down the road, and I don’t know whether there’s something in the wind or if I want my wish to come true so badly that my mind’s playing tricks on me, but I feel a pair of lips kiss my cheek and something like a hand touch my shoulder.
We are always here with you, Ya-Ya. Mommy loves you so much.
We are here with you, my son… I promise.
2. I stop for a few seconds, completely focused on her, unable to move. She’s so pretty, no wonder I have so much trouble talking to her. I mean, look at her.
3. Still, there’s something about a STEM girl. If you know, you know.
4. I close my eyes to bask in the warmth of the waning heat of the sinking sun. Nothing else matters. Not the insanity of being in yet another new high school, not the anger of being away from the A, not even my rising angst over whether Zahra would hit me up to talk. The sunset provides a simple lesson: Don’t rush. Stressing won’t change its outcome. Things have a way of working themselves out.
August 29, 2023
Neverwraith is epic paranormal young adult fiction from Shakir Rashaan.
Yasir Salah has just started a new high school and met a beautiful young classmate. Hazel-green eyed beauty, Zahra Assante, is confused by her feelings for Yasir. These two are about to begin a wonderful new phase in their lives.
Shakir Rashaan may be new to the young adult genre, but he’s not new to excellent writing and storytelling. He started with characters that are who many teens/young adults might want to be or be like. Rashaan continues with superb worldbuilding. He’s imagined a place that’s fantastical but might just be on the map. His writing style is bold but reader-friendly. The plot is intriguing. There’s even a romance to add to the drama. It all comes together in a 5 out of 5 stars read that’s sure to engage not just the young adult reader but all lovers of sci-fi/fantasy. I’ll definitely be eagerly awaiting the next book in what promises to be an epic series.
My thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC, Entangled Amara, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Yasir Salah has just started a new high school and met a beautiful young classmate. Hazel-green eyed beauty, Zahra Assante, is confused by her feelings for Yasir. These two are about to begin a wonderful new phase in their lives.
Shakir Rashaan may be new to the young adult genre, but he’s not new to excellent writing and storytelling. He started with characters that are who many teens/young adults might want to be or be like. Rashaan continues with superb worldbuilding. He’s imagined a place that’s fantastical but might just be on the map. His writing style is bold but reader-friendly. The plot is intriguing. There’s even a romance to add to the drama. It all comes together in a 5 out of 5 stars read that’s sure to engage not just the young adult reader but all lovers of sci-fi/fantasy. I’ll definitely be eagerly awaiting the next book in what promises to be an epic series.
My thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC, Entangled Amara, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
September 8, 2023
Yasir Salah is the new kid at his high school. He’s trying his best to fit in without drawing too much attention to himself. There is a storm brewing inside Yasir that he doesn’t understand. Why does his eyes change colors and where is this extreme heat coming from on his skin? His family always warned him to be careful. But no one ever told him about his past and exactly what he is.
Shakir Rashaan brings us into an entertaining paranormal world with Neverwraith. Rashaan does a good job with bringing Yasir’s story to life. It was refreshing to see an African American male teen as the lead character in this kind of story. While reading this book, you want to know more about Yasir’s background as he is going though his own self discovery. Rashaan does an excellent job of giving the reader just enough information without giving too much away. From the camaraderie among Yasir’s friends to him dealing with everyday high school issues, Neverwraith is definitely a YA book that is relatable to teens. But adults will enjoy this book as well. With Neverwraith, Shakir Rashaan lays down the proper foundation for an exciting series that will have you clamoring for the next installment.
Shakir Rashaan brings us into an entertaining paranormal world with Neverwraith. Rashaan does a good job with bringing Yasir’s story to life. It was refreshing to see an African American male teen as the lead character in this kind of story. While reading this book, you want to know more about Yasir’s background as he is going though his own self discovery. Rashaan does an excellent job of giving the reader just enough information without giving too much away. From the camaraderie among Yasir’s friends to him dealing with everyday high school issues, Neverwraith is definitely a YA book that is relatable to teens. But adults will enjoy this book as well. With Neverwraith, Shakir Rashaan lays down the proper foundation for an exciting series that will have you clamoring for the next installment.
Read
September 14, 2023Neverwraith is a YA urban fantasy following Yasir Salah, a 16-year old from Atlanta, whose life is uprooted when he is forced to move to a small town in Georgia. Running from a dark and mysterious past, he navigates his new high school and makes promising connections. Trouble somehow still finds him despite his efforts to keep a low profile, and soon he discovers alarming changes in his body - voices in his head, enhanced senses and superhuman strength. While seeking answers, he discovers shocking information about his past, and embraces the important role he has to play to protect his people.
The local flavor in this book is strong - I'm happy to support authors from the A! It was interesting to follow Yasir and learn about his culture. The story took off after the halfway mark and there is definitely potential. I appreciated the mystery and intrigue, especially after his powers manifested a la Bruce Banner. Thank you @entangledteen for the advance copy!
“To become your truest self, you have to embrace the light…and the darkness. It is only then that you will be able to control the rage that is in all of us.”
The local flavor in this book is strong - I'm happy to support authors from the A! It was interesting to follow Yasir and learn about his culture. The story took off after the halfway mark and there is definitely potential. I appreciated the mystery and intrigue, especially after his powers manifested a la Bruce Banner. Thank you @entangledteen for the advance copy!
“To become your truest self, you have to embrace the light…and the darkness. It is only then that you will be able to control the rage that is in all of us.”
September 25, 2023
A debut YA novel, this foray into the fantasy and paranormal was worth the trip! Neverwraith by Shakir Rashaan lives up to the authors reputation for crafting immerse narratives with his other books, and I loved exploring this realm.
Meet Yasir, or Ya-Ya. He has things going on that he can’t talk to anyone about. He lost both his parents at an early age, knows nothing about his heritage, or where he comes from. He is struggling but has endured this pain for a long time. He’s now the new kid in school. He’s trying to keep to himself but still meets others, including a girl named Zahra. They have an instant connection, somehow… will he be able to explore it or will his trauma prevent him from creating a close relationship with a great person?
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! Rashaan did an excellent job at building the story and I couldn’t put it down. I was hooked from the first chapter and devoured this story. Vivd imagery allowed me to use my imagination to its fullest, and I throughly enjoyed this fast-paced read. I feel like this is going to be a popular read and transcend boundaries. I highly suggest this read!
Meet Yasir, or Ya-Ya. He has things going on that he can’t talk to anyone about. He lost both his parents at an early age, knows nothing about his heritage, or where he comes from. He is struggling but has endured this pain for a long time. He’s now the new kid in school. He’s trying to keep to himself but still meets others, including a girl named Zahra. They have an instant connection, somehow… will he be able to explore it or will his trauma prevent him from creating a close relationship with a great person?
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! Rashaan did an excellent job at building the story and I couldn’t put it down. I was hooked from the first chapter and devoured this story. Vivd imagery allowed me to use my imagination to its fullest, and I throughly enjoyed this fast-paced read. I feel like this is going to be a popular read and transcend boundaries. I highly suggest this read!
August 30, 2023
I have seen the future of YA Paranormal. His name is Shakir Rashaan.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Have you ever read a book and felt homesick for the characters you've just met? Have you ever gone on a journey and been so wasted by the end and yet you hunger for more? Neverwraith is that book. The prose and plot crackled and hummed on every page. The author's vivid depiction of each character made me laugh, cry, and cheer my way through every chapter. Shakir Rashaan took this reader on a journey that left her speechless by the end of the book. I'm not one to give spoilers. I think it takes away from the writer's effort and cheats readers out of a chance to meet this masterful work. If you are looking for a new classic that would make even the great Stan Lee smile, check out Neverwraith and the other brilliant works of Shakir Rashaan. You won't regret it. Stephanie M Freeman National Bestselling Author of Author of Season of the Blood
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Have you ever read a book and felt homesick for the characters you've just met? Have you ever gone on a journey and been so wasted by the end and yet you hunger for more? Neverwraith is that book. The prose and plot crackled and hummed on every page. The author's vivid depiction of each character made me laugh, cry, and cheer my way through every chapter. Shakir Rashaan took this reader on a journey that left her speechless by the end of the book. I'm not one to give spoilers. I think it takes away from the writer's effort and cheats readers out of a chance to meet this masterful work. If you are looking for a new classic that would make even the great Stan Lee smile, check out Neverwraith and the other brilliant works of Shakir Rashaan. You won't regret it. Stephanie M Freeman National Bestselling Author of Author of Season of the Blood
August 31, 2023
Stand by the people that love you!
Yasir has moved to Oakwood Grove to live with his uncle. He had to leave Atlanta, where he lived with his Nana. He doesn’t know why he was forced to leave, other than his Nana telling him he was in danger. Now that Yasir is in Oakwood Grove, he’s dealing with new problems with bullies coming out of the woodwork. He feels changes in himself and he’s trying his best to get a grip on life and keep calm. When some of his past is revealed, Yasir starts to wrap his head around the importance of standing by the people he loves.
Likes/dislikes: The slang is difficult to get used to. The story didn’t pull my interest until the last third of the book. I was relieved when the characters stopped saying that everything will be revealed later and finally started explaining what was happening to the main characters.
Mature Content: PG-13 for underage drinking
Language: R for 92 swears and 5 f-words.
Ethnicity: The characters are predominantly Black. Taylor has tawny skin. Kendyl is Afro-Latina. Ms. Tyler has beige skin.
Yasir has moved to Oakwood Grove to live with his uncle. He had to leave Atlanta, where he lived with his Nana. He doesn’t know why he was forced to leave, other than his Nana telling him he was in danger. Now that Yasir is in Oakwood Grove, he’s dealing with new problems with bullies coming out of the woodwork. He feels changes in himself and he’s trying his best to get a grip on life and keep calm. When some of his past is revealed, Yasir starts to wrap his head around the importance of standing by the people he loves.
Likes/dislikes: The slang is difficult to get used to. The story didn’t pull my interest until the last third of the book. I was relieved when the characters stopped saying that everything will be revealed later and finally started explaining what was happening to the main characters.
Mature Content: PG-13 for underage drinking
Language: R for 92 swears and 5 f-words.
Ethnicity: The characters are predominantly Black. Taylor has tawny skin. Kendyl is Afro-Latina. Ms. Tyler has beige skin.
July 26, 2023
"Neverwraith" delivers a promising start to a new and fresh YA Paranormal series. I think this book will resonate well with it's intended audience.
The first half of this book lays a solid foundation or what felt like the beginning of an origin story. We meet the MMC Yasir Salah as he moves in with his Uncle and prepares to start a new school. That would be plenty for any teenager to grapple with but Yasir isn't just another teen, something is happening within him that can't be rationally explained.
I won't touch on the plot any further because I don't want spoil any revelations but I really felt the second half of this book is where the pace sped up and set things into motion.
I'd recommend this book to someone who enjoys reading in this genre.
Thank you Shakira Rashaan, Net Galley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The first half of this book lays a solid foundation or what felt like the beginning of an origin story. We meet the MMC Yasir Salah as he moves in with his Uncle and prepares to start a new school. That would be plenty for any teenager to grapple with but Yasir isn't just another teen, something is happening within him that can't be rationally explained.
I won't touch on the plot any further because I don't want spoil any revelations but I really felt the second half of this book is where the pace sped up and set things into motion.
I'd recommend this book to someone who enjoys reading in this genre.
Thank you Shakira Rashaan, Net Galley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 28, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for sending me this eARC. All of my thoughts are my own.
This book is a great start to what I imagine is going to be an epic series. I have no doubt that my high school students will absolutely love this book and I cannot wait to grab a copy for my classroom. Yasir Salah was abruptly moved from his home in Atlanta to his uncle’s house in Oakwood Grove. Starting a new school isn’t easy and he’s immediately on the radar of the mayor’s son, the biggest jerk in town. But after meeting the beautiful and amazingly smart Zahra, Yasir might just get a handle on his new life.
Weird things start happening to him and he keeps running into trouble but Zahra is right there to pull him back. The teen love within this wholly cool story and concept is adorable. Yasir is about to find out why he has been moved out to his uncle’s and that he can’t escape his destiny to save his people he didn’t even know about.
This book is a great start to what I imagine is going to be an epic series. I have no doubt that my high school students will absolutely love this book and I cannot wait to grab a copy for my classroom. Yasir Salah was abruptly moved from his home in Atlanta to his uncle’s house in Oakwood Grove. Starting a new school isn’t easy and he’s immediately on the radar of the mayor’s son, the biggest jerk in town. But after meeting the beautiful and amazingly smart Zahra, Yasir might just get a handle on his new life.
Weird things start happening to him and he keeps running into trouble but Zahra is right there to pull him back. The teen love within this wholly cool story and concept is adorable. Yasir is about to find out why he has been moved out to his uncle’s and that he can’t escape his destiny to save his people he didn’t even know about.
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