The Deathly Grimm

This was a mesmerizing dive back into the eerie, enchanting world of the Forest Grimm! The imagery of spectral maidens and murderous woodsmen gives off that spine-tingling, gothic fairy tale vibe that’s both sharp and beautiful. The stakes are soaring higher, and the suspense is enough to have you on the edge of your seat. If you love dark tales with heart, this sequel promises to keep you captivated until the very last page.

My new favorite gothic fairytale! I grew up reading the stories collected by The Brothers Grimm and this reimagining combines them in the best way.

The story picks up right where The Forest Grimm leaves off with bone tingling suspense and a sentient forest bent on justice. I loved all the characters - from Clara’s and Axel’s internal and relationship struggles, to the dancing princesses, to the evil and misunderstood huntsman.

There’s so many secrets and plots to uncover and each twist and reveal kept me on the edge of my seat. This duology is perfect for lovers of dark fairytales and murder mysteries. Highly recommend!

Thank you to Netgalley, Wednesday Books, and St. Martin’s Press for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

What a ride! Clara and Axel are back in the forest trying to save their town from a curse. In this sequel, they must find a stolen page from the magical book the town uses for wishes. They also want to solve a murder and find still more missing townspeople who have gone into the magical forest.

I appreciate how deeply Kathryn Purdie dug into Grimm's fairy tales to come up with characters and challenges for our characters in this sequel. There were times when you just didn't know when Clara would be "done-done" with the trials. Even when she was home, it felt like her happily ever after was far from her grasp.

The angst between Clara and Axel was well done and I think it was refreshingly appropriate at time when some are pushing for YA literature to be more adult. They're young and inexperienced, but committed to each other for the long haul.