Stalked by the Reaper

Piper Winslow, a tattoo artist and demon of the nightmare breed, is stalked by Levi Cutler, a sentinel and reaper in their lair. Their first encounter is charged with tension, as Levi's intense, silent scrutiny unsettles Piper. She's used to being tough and independent, but Levi's presence is different—he's not just a sentinel, but her stepsister Celeste's ex, and the lair's most intimidating enforcer. Piper's life is already complicated by a recent breakup and job loss, but Levi's attention signals a new, more dangerous chapter. When a psychic force tries to bond their minds, both realize they are anchors—psi-mates destined to stabilize each other's demons. The revelation is as thrilling as it is terrifying, especially given their tangled history and Celeste's possessive nature.

Anchors and Old Wounds

The anchor bond between Piper and Levi is undeniable, but both hesitate. Piper fears the fallout with Celeste, who has a history of manipulating family dynamics to her advantage. Levi, meanwhile, is haunted by his own past—his mother died in childbirth, his aunt was murdered, and he grew up in a harsh orphanage. Despite their mutual attraction, both are wary of the consequences of forming the bond. Piper's independence clashes with the possessive instincts the bond awakens in both her and Levi. Their demons, primal and territorial, push them together, but old wounds and family dynamics threaten to keep them apart.

Family Ties, Family Lies

Piper's family dinner becomes a battleground when she and Levi announce their anchor bond. Celeste erupts, accusing Piper of stealing yet another piece of her life. The family's long-standing habit of placating Celeste is exposed, and Piper is forced to confront the ways she's been sidelined. Levi, fiercely protective, refuses to let Celeste's manipulations continue. The confrontation is raw, with Piper's demon surfacing to assert dominance. The family is left fractured, but Piper finally receives the support she's always craved from her mother and stepfather, who promise to stop putting Celeste's feelings first.

The Mark of Possession

As Piper and Levi grow closer, their mutual desire becomes impossible to ignore. Their demons' possessiveness manifests physically—Levi's demon brands Piper with the death ballad, a mark that both protects and claims her. Their sexual chemistry explodes, but both fear the emotional consequences. Meanwhile, Piper is targeted by a series of escalating attacks: slashed tires, vandalism, and a psychic assault in a deli. Levi's protective instincts go into overdrive, and he moves in with Piper to keep her safe. The line between anchor duty and personal longing blurs, and both struggle to define what they truly want from each other.

Shadows in the Lair

A series of murders rocks the lair—single mothers are found dead, their children left unharmed but traumatized. Levi, whose own aunt was killed in a similar fashion, is drawn into the investigation. The killer's method is chillingly familiar: broken necks, an X carved into the forehead, and a period of "parenting" the children before abandoning them. Levi's past and present collide as he realizes the killer may be the same person who orphaned him. The lair's leadership mobilizes to protect vulnerable members, but the killer remains elusive, able to erase himself from memories and evade all surveillance.

The Vandal's Game

Piper's life is further complicated by the return of old enemies—Sefton and Jasper, brothers with a grudge, and her ex, Kelvin, who becomes a suspect in the attacks. The lair's politics grow more tangled as Piper is caught between her role as an investigator and as a target. Levi's investigation uncovers layers of deception, and suspicion falls on multiple fronts. The attacks escalate, culminating in a public assault at an amusement park that nearly kills Piper. The lair's sense of safety is shattered, and Levi's guilt over failing to protect Piper deepens their emotional rift.

The Unseen Attacker

Piper is nearly killed by an invisible assailant wielding a psychic scalpel. The attack leaves her with a brain hemorrhage, only narrowly saved by a healer. The lair realizes the killer is not only physically elusive but can also erase himself from memories—a curse placed on him by a witch he wronged. The investigation intensifies, with Levi and his allies racing to identify the killer before he strikes again. Piper's sense of vulnerability grows, and she contemplates isolating herself to protect others, but Levi refuses to let her go.

The Anchor's Dilemma

Piper and Levi's relationship reaches a breaking point. Their attempt to remain platonic anchors fails as their desire for each other overwhelms their resolve. They agree to a temporary sexual arrangement, hoping to "burn out" their attraction before forming the bond. Instead, their feelings deepen, and the emotional distance between them becomes unbearable. Celeste seizes the opportunity to sow doubt in Piper's mind, accusing Levi of being a collector who only wants to possess, not love. Piper is forced to confront her own fears about being truly seen and valued.

The Killer's Pattern

The killer's pattern becomes clear: he seeks to recreate a perfect family, controlling his victims' minds and erasing himself from their memories. Piper uses her nightmare ability to enter the mind of a survivor, Missy, and confirms the killer's identity and curse. The investigation reveals that the killer is Janelle's partner, Clyde, who has been hiding in plain sight. As the lair closes in, Clyde kills Janelle and sets his sights on Piper, determined to force Levi to kill him and end his cursed existence.

Trust and Betrayal

In a shocking twist, Enzo—a trusted member of the lair's Force and someone Levi considered a friend—reveals himself as the true mastermind behind the attacks on Piper. Driven by a vendetta over his brother's death, Enzo orchestrated the campaign of terror to destroy Levi emotionally. He allies with Clyde, planning to kill Piper and frame the nightmare for her murder. Piper is rendered helpless by Clyde's psychic control, and Enzo prepares to deliver the killing blow.

The Nightmare's Hold

Trapped in her own mind, Piper fights desperately against Clyde's control. She is forced to relive Enzo's trauma and is physically tortured as Enzo prepares to kill her in front of Levi. The lair's sentinels, led by Levi, Knox, and Larkin, launch a rescue mission, using their combined powers and strategic cunning to outmaneuver the killers. Piper's demon, though suppressed, remains defiant, and Piper's own resilience becomes her greatest weapon.

The Truth Unveiled

In a climactic confrontation, Levi and his allies defeat Clyde and Enzo. Clyde is imprisoned, his curse finally exposed, and Enzo is revealed as a coward who could only attack when his victims were helpless. Levi's demon ensures Enzo will suffer for his betrayal, and the lair's sense of justice is restored. Piper and Levi, both physically and emotionally scarred, find solace in each other's arms. The truth about the murders, the curse, and the betrayals is finally brought to light.

The Final Confrontation

With the threats neutralized, Piper and Levi face the aftermath. The lair mourns its losses and celebrates its survivors. Celeste, finally punished for her manipulations, is sidelined. Piper's family acknowledges their past mistakes and promises to support her unconditionally. Levi confronts the ghosts of his past, visiting the Chamber to ensure his enemies are contained. The couple's bond, tested by fire, emerges stronger than ever.

Healing and Homecoming

Piper and Levi move in together, forging a new home and a new sense of family. Their relationship, once fraught with uncertainty, becomes a source of strength and healing. The lair's community rallies around them, and Piper finds herself surrounded by friends who have become family. The couple's demons, once sources of chaos, now serve as protectors and symbols of their unbreakable bond.

New Beginnings, Old Scars

Months later, Piper and Levi are mated and engaged, their love marked by black diamond rings and the scars of their shared ordeal. The lair is at peace, but the memory of betrayal and loss remains. Piper, now fully integrated into the lair's inner circle, reflects on the journey from isolation to belonging. The story ends with a sense of hope and renewal, as Piper and Levi look forward to a future together—stronger, wiser, and forever changed.

Characters

Piper Winslow

Piper is a nightmare demon and tattoo artist whose life is shaped by trauma, family dysfunction, and a deep-seated need for autonomy. Her relationship with her stepsister Celeste is fraught with jealousy and manipulation, leaving Piper accustomed to being sidelined. Despite her tough exterior, Piper craves connection and loyalty. Her anchor bond with Levi awakens both her vulnerability and her strength, forcing her to confront her fears of abandonment and her capacity for love. Piper's demon is territorial and psychopathic, but ultimately serves as a source of power and protection. Over the course of the story, Piper evolves from a solitary survivor to a beloved mate and central figure in her community.

Levi Cutler

Levi is a reaper and sentinel, defined by his tragic past—his mother's death, his aunt's murder, and a childhood spent in a brutal orphanage. He is fiercely loyal, disciplined, and intimidating, but beneath his hard exterior lies a deep well of pain and longing. Levi's anchor bond with Piper challenges his self-imposed isolation and forces him to confront his capacity for attachment. His demon is possessive and ruthless, branding Piper as its own and serving as both shield and sword. Levi's journey is one of redemption, as he learns to trust, love, and accept the support of others.

Celeste

Celeste is Piper's stepsister and lifelong rival, driven by a sense of abandonment and a desperate need for validation. Her relationship with Piper is toxic, marked by competition and resentment. Celeste's inability to accept Piper's happiness with Levi leads her to sabotage and manipulate, but her actions ultimately backfire, resulting in her isolation and punishment. Celeste is a cautionary figure—a reminder of the damage caused by unresolved trauma and the refusal to let go of old grievances.

Enzo

Enzo is a member of the lair's Force and a trusted ally—until he reveals himself as the architect of Piper's torment. Driven by a vendetta over his brother's death, Enzo orchestrates a campaign of terror to destroy Levi emotionally. His ability to conceal himself and wield psychic weapons makes him a formidable foe, but his cowardice and self-delusion are ultimately his undoing. Enzo's betrayal is a devastating blow to the lair, forcing everyone to reevaluate their assumptions about trust and loyalty.

Clyde Quincy

Clyde is the serial killer haunting the lair, cursed to be forgotten by everyone he meets. His desperate attempts to create a perfect family lead him to murder, mind control, and ultimately, self-destruction. Clyde's inability to form genuine connections drives his crimes, and his alliance with Enzo seals his fate. He is both monster and victim, a tragic figure whose curse is both punishment and prison.

Knox

Knox is the lair's Prime, a powerful and respected leader who balances compassion with ruthlessness. He is instrumental in the investigation, providing both strategic oversight and personal support to Levi and Piper. Knox's ability to pyroport and his mastery of psychic and demonic abilities make him a formidable force. He represents the lair's commitment to justice and the importance of community.

Larkin

Larkin is one of Knox's sentinels and a close friend to both Levi and Piper. Her harpy demon is as ruthless as she is, and she serves as both confidante and protector. Larkin's own history of loss and betrayal informs her empathy and her willingness to fight for those she loves. She is a stabilizing presence, often providing the voice of reason and the muscle when needed.

Harper

Harper is Knox's mate and anchor, serving as a model for what a healthy anchor relationship can be. She is supportive, wise, and fiercely protective of her family and friends. Harper's own journey from outsider to central figure in the lair mirrors Piper's, and she provides guidance and encouragement throughout the story.

Devon

Devon is a hellcat demon and one of Piper's closest friends. Her pregnancy and new motherhood provide a counterpoint to the story's darker themes, offering hope and renewal. Devon's relationship with her mate, Tanner, and her willingness to stand up for Piper highlight the importance of chosen family.

Khloë

Khloë is an imp demon whose irreverence and humor provide levity in tense moments. She is fiercely loyal to her friends and unafraid to challenge authority. Khloë's antics often mask a deep sense of loyalty and protectiveness, making her an indispensable member of the group.

Plot Devices

Anchor Bond

The anchor bond is the central plot device, binding Piper and Levi together both psychically and emotionally. It serves as both a source of power—stabilizing their demons and enhancing their abilities—and a source of tension, as both struggle with the possessiveness and vulnerability it brings. The bond is tested by external threats and internal doubts, ultimately serving as the crucible in which their relationship is forged.

Cursed Killer

The killer's curse—to be forgotten by everyone—creates a unique investigative challenge. Witnesses cannot recall his face or name, and even those closest to him are unable to provide useful information. This device heightens the sense of paranoia and helplessness, forcing the protagonists to rely on unconventional methods (like Piper's nightmare ability) to uncover the truth.

Betrayal from Within

Enzo's betrayal is a classic "enemy within" plot device, forcing the characters to question their assumptions about loyalty and safety. His ability to conceal his true intentions and manipulate events from the shadows adds a layer of psychological suspense, culminating in a shocking reveal that redefines the stakes.

Psychic and Demonic Abilities

The story's world is rich with supernatural abilities—telepathy, pyroportation, mind control, and more. These powers are not just tools for battle, but also metaphors for intimacy, vulnerability, and control. The use of abilities in combat, investigation, and emotional connection drives the plot and deepens the characters' relationships.

Family Dynamics

The complex web of family relationships—biological, step, and chosen—serves as both backdrop and catalyst for the story's events. The rivalry between Piper and Celeste, the legacy of Levi's orphanhood, and the lair's communal bonds all shape the characters' choices and growth. The resolution of these dynamics is as important as the defeat of the external villains.

Analysis

Reaper is a dark, emotionally charged urban fantasy that explores the intersection of trauma, trust, and the search for belonging. At its core, the novel is about the ways in which our pasts shape our present—how old wounds, family dysfunction, and betrayal can haunt us, but also how love, loyalty, and chosen family can heal and transform. Suzanne Wright uses the supernatural anchor bond as a metaphor for the risks and rewards of true intimacy: to be anchored is to be seen, claimed, and vulnerable, but also to be strengthened and made whole. The story's villains—both the cursed killer and the traitorous Enzo—embody the dangers of isolation, self-delusion, and unresolved pain. In contrast, Piper and Levi's journey is one of mutual recognition, acceptance, and growth. The novel ultimately argues that healing is possible, but only when we confront our demons—literal and figurative—and allow ourselves to be anchored by love.

Last updated: May 21, 2025