I've been looking forward to this book ever since I learned an ARC was available. There are too few books on grim reaper romance for so many readers. The characters, story concept, and lore all felt refreshingly unique within the current fantasy/paranormal romance market. At its core, it's a love story that explores pain and loss through two characters who couldn't be more opposite.
The lore was particularly compelling and structured. I loved how classical views on death and religion were woven into both the storyline and the characters themselves. Religion so heavily influences how people think about death, and seeing that explored from the perspective of a grim reaper was genuinely entertaining. The book strikes a strong balance between humor and heaviness; it never leans too far in either direction, and I appreciated that emotional range. The setting, too, managed to feel grounded and realistic while still carrying a sense of magic.
Just when you think the story is wrapping up, the tension shifts in unexpected ways, and the ending lands in a deeply satisfying place.
For readers looking for a no-spice romance, this one fits the bill. It's a slow burn told through both main characters' points of view.

I was thoroughly surprised with this book! I love a Grim Reaper romance and wish that there were more out there. I thought the MMC, Rip, was the perfect blend of broody and yearning and found Birdie to be a very complex character at her core. I loved seeing their relationship with each other develop through the use of duel POV. This book is perfect for people who are fans of Grumpy x Sunshine tropes. Birdie is a chronic optimist (if even through resigning herself to things) while Rip is gloomy and melancholy.

I think my only critique would be that the action culminates towards the end and goes QUICK. I found myself wanting to see more of Rip and Birdie navigating their dynamic before having to go off and save the world.

Overall, I thought this was a really sweet story about two people finding love in each other after spending their entire life (immortal or not) feeling undeserving and like a burden to those around them.