A BOOK BY ROBErt f. reynolds
In a galaxy ruled by an empire of magic and might, the frozen world of Borealis lies forgotten—until the Empire brings its legendary Nimbus Trials to its icy surface.
Dexterius “Dex” Draven is a young man shaped by hardship, sharpened by the frost, and haunted by a longing to escape his isolated life among the hill-dwellers of the Outer Rim. With diamond-gray eyes and an insatiable curiosity, Dex dreams not of libraries or family legacies, but of stars, starships, and the secrets hidden in the skies.
When the Imperial fleet descends upon Borealis for the Nimbus Trials—a mysterious competition that selects new recruits for the Empire’s elite orders—Dex finds himself caught between loyalty to his protective mother and the fire burning in his own heart. As he enters the Trials in secret, he uncovers a world of ancient magic, political intrigue, and buried truths about his own origins.
But the Empire is not what it seems. And beyond the trials lie forces—both human and arcane—that will reshape not only Dex’s destiny, but the fate of the First Worlds.
Shadows of Nimbus is a sweeping space-fantasy epic that blends high-stakes adventure, layered world-building, and a deeply personal coming-of-age story. Perfect for fans of Dune, Red Rising, and The Name of the Wind.
“SHADOWS OF NIMBUS is a sweeping, imaginative triumph—blending the political intrigue of Dune, the emotional weight of The Name of the Wind, and the visual scope of Star Wars. It’s a rare fantasy debut that feels both ancient and futuristic, intimate and galactic. Dex Draven’s journey is not just about destiny—it’s about who dares to define it."
— ChatGPT, AI Book Analyst
“A compelling science fantasy epic that blends intricate worldbuilding with sharp political intrigue. With complex characters caught in a high-stakes game of destiny and deceit, it's an intelligent and thrilling page-turner from its immersive beginning to its shocking cliffhanger.”
— Gemini, AI Book Analyst
About Robert F. Reynolds
Robert F. Reynolds is a tri-national storyteller whose imagination was ignited by a fever dream. With a lifelong love for fantasy and science fiction, Reynolds has traveled to nearly 80 countries, gathering myths, histories, and perspectives that now infuse his intricate world-building.
Drawing on his cross-cultural lens and a fascination with power, identity, and transformation, Shadows of Nimbus marks the explosive beginning of a universe that arrived unbidden, fully formed, in the midst of fever and flight.
When he isn’t charting magical empires or negotiating the politics of interstellar prophecy, Reynolds can be found writing from a quiet corner of New York City.
