Step into the enchanting afterlife adventures of Riley Bloom, where a spunky twelve-year-old navigates the mysteries of the Here & Now! The Riley Bloom series, a captivating spin-off from Alyson Noël’s bestselling The Immortals, blends fantasy, heart, and coming-of-age charm. Perfect for young readers, it follows Riley’s journey as a Soul Catcher, helping lost spirits find peace while discovering her own strength.
With its unique take on the afterlife and themes of forgiveness and growth, this middle-grade series has won hearts with its lighthearted yet profound storytelling. Ready to explore Riley’s world? Let’s dive into her story!
How Riley Bloom Began
Alyson Noël, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, created the Riley Bloom series as a spin-off from The Immortals, where Riley first appeared as the ghost-sister of protagonist Ever Bloom. Inspired by her fascination with metaphysics and the afterlife, Noël crafted a vibrant world for Riley, a character whose fiery spirit demanded her own spotlight. Launched in 2010, the series gave young readers a fresh perspective on life, death, and what lies beyond.
Noël’s research into quantum physics and spiritual concepts shaped the Here & Now, a timeless afterlife realm where Riley’s adventures unfold. Her goal was to blend whimsical fantasy with relatable tween struggles, making Riley a heroine who resonates with readers navigating their own growing pains.
The Heart of Riley Bloom
The series spans four books, each a quick, engaging read. Radiance (2010) introduces Riley, who, after dying in a car accident, becomes a Soul Catcher under the guidance of her mentor, Bodhi. Her first mission? Convincing a Radiant Boy haunting an English castle to cross over. In Shimmer (2011), Riley faces Rebecca, a ghost trapped by anger from a 1733 slave revolt, learning to confront her own fears to free trapped souls.
Dreamland (2011) sees Riley exploring the dream-weaving world to contact her sister, Ever, only to battle a ghost spreading nightmares. Finally, Whisper (2012) pits Riley against Theocoles, a Roman gladiator, in her toughest challenge yet, tempting her with a glamorous afterlife makeover. Themes of forgiveness, self-discovery, and love versus fear weave through each story, set against the ethereal backdrop of the Here & Now, where time stands still.
Noël’s writing sparkles with humor and vivid descriptions, capturing Riley’s sassy voice and heartfelt growth. The series balances lighthearted adventures with deeper lessons, making it a standout in middle-grade fantasy for its emotional depth and relatable heroine.
Why Riley Bloom Resonates
The Riley Bloom series has left a lasting mark on young readers, offering a fresh take on the afterlife that’s both comforting and empowering. Its focus on personal growth and empathy resonates with tweens facing their own challenges, while Riley’s spunky personality makes her a relatable role model. Fans praise Noël’s ability to tackle heavy topics like loss and forgiveness with grace, ensuring the series feels accessible yet profound.
Though a niche gem compared to The Immortals, the series has cultivated a loyal following, with readers drawn to its unique mythology and emotional core. Its influence lies in proving that even smaller stories can inspire big feelings, encouraging young readers to embrace their inner strength.
- About Riley Bloom
- Published: 2010–2012
- Books: 4 (Radiance, Shimmer, Dreamland, Whisper)
- Author: Alyson Noël
- Genre: Middle-grade fantasy, paranormal
Ready to join Riley on her soul-catching adventures? Grab Radiance and step into the magical Here & Now, where courage and heart light the way!