Death’s Lover, First Encounter by Scarlett Reed is a well-written historical romance. Colonial Virginia is the setting for this beautiful, yet violent story. On the way to her fiancé’s home just days before their wedding, Avaline encounters Niklaus who normally is an Angel of Death. Today, Niklaus enters the world as a human being. He wants to experience everything humans do to have and show more compassion for them while he helps them when they are dying. Niklaus helps the human soul move on once the body dies. But today, he presents himself to Mr. Romani, the tailor, and once he is clothed, he introduces himself as his nephew to Viscount Harmsworth. Truly they are not related, but in order for the ploy to work, Niklaus must ingratiate himself as the Davenport nephew. What he does not expect to happen is to fall in love with Avaline. He saves her from death, protects her as much as possible from the violence of her husband Viscount Harmsworth, all the while trying to show her that slavery is wrong. This is an epic love story that cannot have a happy and contented ending: he is an Angel of Death, and only here for a fleeting time, and she is a Viscountess, married to another man. How can this story end?

Scarlett Reed has penned a beautiful love story. Death’s Lover, First Encounter gives the reader a vision of what life must have been like for a Viscountess during the era. Scarlett Reed gives the reader a wonderful insight into the workings of a plantation house, the owners, and the slaves. The reader will visualize the tall, handsome form of Niklaus as he walks around in his fine clothing made by Mr. Romani, his friend. One can almost smell the tobacco burning from their cigars as the men drink, smoke, and play cards, in which Charles loses not only his money but Avaline’s dowry. Charles uses his slaves and his wife the same way. He has no value for anyone except his nephew, Niklaus. I was transported into colonial Virginia to experience the love and compassion between Avaline and Niklaus. My heart broke with what transpires throughout the book and especially at the end. But, life must go on, and we all must find our place in it, depending on which side of the veil you are on. You will love reading this book. I highly recommend it. Characterization was exceptional, the setting was well established, and drama was around every corner. Well done!

Death's Lover: First Encounter is a paranormal romance novel by Scarlett Reed. Avaline Addams, a naive yet beautiful young woman, eagerly awaits her marriage to plantation owner Lord Charles Harmsworth in Colonial Virginia. But a few days preceding her wedding, her life turns upside down when she meets Niklaus Davenport, Charles's nephew from England. Unbeknownst to either Avaline or Charles, however, Niklaus is an Angel of Death, roaming the streets of Virginia to observe humans. Feeling an intense mutual attraction since they met, Niklaus takes Avaline under his wing, teaching her the ways of lovemaking and the world. With her abusive philandering husband making her life a living hell, Avaline finds comfort in the arms of Niklaus. But while the two slowly fall head over heels for each other, Niklaus's time as a mortal is running out.

An intoxicating paranormal romance between two unlikely star-crossed lovers, Death's Lover: First Encounter is an enthralling read from start to finish. Author Scarlett Reed spins a captivating yarn set in colonial-era Virginia, where a young woman brought up in privilege has her preconceived notions shaken to the core after getting acquainted with a handsome and mysterious man. The narrative switches POVs between Niklaus and Avaline with each chapter. As a reader, you find yourself in the headspace of an immortal trying to act human, which directly contrasts with Avaline's POV that showcases her naivety in worldly matters. Every scene between Niklaus and Avaline is filled with tension, desire, and intrigue. If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend Death's Lover: First Encounter.