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A Winter's Grave
What would you do if you woke up in the snow with absolutely no memory of who you are or how you got there?
What would you say to your savior when she tells you that not only are you now dead but you’ve been chosen to become a Grim Reaper?
Ceres is working to piece the slivers of her former life together from fractured memories, all while learning how to stay off her demon Mistress’ radar.
Ceres may have been qualified to become a Reaper, but that doesn’t mean she’s very good at it. From her catastrophes in becoming a Reaper to her inability to maintain a day job, Ceres and her tiny Hellhound aren’t doing much to impress anyone in the house, especially Gavin, the head Reaper of their Wake.
Gavin and Ceres may have gotten off on the wrong foot but there is something about her that he can’t ignore. The problem is he’s not the only one interested in her.
What Ceres soon finds out is that their Demon Mistress has laid claim to Gavin and she's told Ceres it's hands off.
Does Ceres accept the fact that their Mistress is trying to force Gavin into her own patiently waiting arms or does Ceres risk her afterlife in order to save his?
What would you say to your savior when she tells you that not only are you now dead but you’ve been chosen to become a Grim Reaper?
Ceres is working to piece the slivers of her former life together from fractured memories, all while learning how to stay off her demon Mistress’ radar.
Ceres may have been qualified to become a Reaper, but that doesn’t mean she’s very good at it. From her catastrophes in becoming a Reaper to her inability to maintain a day job, Ceres and her tiny Hellhound aren’t doing much to impress anyone in the house, especially Gavin, the head Reaper of their Wake.
Gavin and Ceres may have gotten off on the wrong foot but there is something about her that he can’t ignore. The problem is he’s not the only one interested in her.
What Ceres soon finds out is that their Demon Mistress has laid claim to Gavin and she's told Ceres it's hands off.
Does Ceres accept the fact that their Mistress is trying to force Gavin into her own patiently waiting arms or does Ceres risk her afterlife in order to save his?
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2013
9 people want to read
About the author
Cree Walker
5 books10 followersAuthor Bio:
Cree Walker lives in Northern Maine with her very patient debate partner and their furry love child, mini rat terrier, Titan. When Cree isn't plugging away at her computer she can most likely be found at the hospital where she works as an advanced psychiatric technician for both children and adults.
To date, Cree has four novel length publications with Naughty Nights Press. Paranormal werewolf romance, Whisper on a Scream, and it's sequel, Urban Fantasy nominated book for 2012, Willing Sacrifice. She also has paranormal romantic comedy, A Winter's Grave, book one to the Reaper series and her most recent publication, Maple Lane Manor, Home for Retired Supernaturals. So far, Maple Lane Manor has been a finalist in the 2013 Up Authors Fiction Challenge and all have received the coveted 5 star review rating from the Paranormal Romance Guild.
Cree Walker lives in Northern Maine with her very patient debate partner and their furry love child, mini rat terrier, Titan. When Cree isn't plugging away at her computer she can most likely be found at the hospital where she works as an advanced psychiatric technician for both children and adults.
To date, Cree has four novel length publications with Naughty Nights Press. Paranormal werewolf romance, Whisper on a Scream, and it's sequel, Urban Fantasy nominated book for 2012, Willing Sacrifice. She also has paranormal romantic comedy, A Winter's Grave, book one to the Reaper series and her most recent publication, Maple Lane Manor, Home for Retired Supernaturals. So far, Maple Lane Manor has been a finalist in the 2013 Up Authors Fiction Challenge and all have received the coveted 5 star review rating from the Paranormal Romance Guild.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
July 21, 2013
A Winter’s Grave is the first in Cree Walker’s Reaper series, and it didn’t take much effort for me to become immersed in this creative supernatural world of Reapers and one young woman’s struggle to accept a new way of life…or rather death to be accurate.
The story opens with Ceres who awakens in a snow covered field, but she has no idea how she ended up there. Furthermore, she is surprised to find a strange woman waiting to take her to her new home. The story is told from Ceres’ perspective, so we only get her assessment of what happens in the story. Nevertheless, her limited POV is effective in adding to the mystery and suspense. Plus, her witty, sarcastic thoughts are funny, even when she is caught in dangerous situations, and they add freshness to the author’s writing style that kept me engaged.
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This woman waiting for Ceres is the “Angel of Death” and is not one bit friendly—Ceres is merely a job to her. This intimidating angel is a Reaper whose duty is collect Ceres for her new role in the afterlife. She looks nothing like the fabled Grim Reaper we might expect.
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Without any compassion, she bluntly informs a shocked Ceres that she was found lying in the snow because she froze to death. That’s right, Ceres died but has been resurrected as one of the lucky few who are granted the opportunity for redemption for her past sins. Once Ceres does this, she will have a chance to enter Heaven.
Although it isn’t exactly clear to me, it seems she is in purgatory, where she is forced to become a Reaper whose new assignment is to collect souls of the damned and send them to Hell. She is now bound to Hell and enslaved by a demon known only as the Duchess.
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This malicious Duchess likes to harp on the power she has to determine Ceres’ future, and she does a good a pretty good job of terrorizing her new slave.
I was not expecting the type of fantastical world Cree has created. The rules of this supernatural world have been well-thought out; they are relevant to the plot of the story and simple enough to remember. In addition, Cree countered many of my expectations about what the afterlife would be like, leaving me pleasantly surprised. Ceres is not a ghost; she feels everything a human does even though she no longer retains her past memories. Everything is blank, who she used to be when she was alive and, more importantly, why and how she died. This is frustrating for Ceres, but she is comforted by knowing her memories will gradually return. The question for us all is will whether she can accept what she learns. When Ceres finally does learn how grave her sins are, she feels like a monster.
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Gradual clues scattered throughout the book indicate that Ceres is different from the others. All of her housemates realize this, but they just don’t know who or what she really is. I thought I had guessed her identity, but, in the end, I was wrong.
I was also pleasantly surprised that I wasn’t able to predict aspects of Ceres’ new environment. For example, I expected her to reside in a different dimension and only return to Earth to collect the souls she has been assigned to send to Hell. It’s just the opposite, she lives on Earth in a corporeal body and is able to interact and work among the living. Her amber colored eyes are the only clue that she is different. Ceres’ interactions with other supernatural entities and humans are hilarious at times and provide a nice reprieve from her somber situation.
No matter what Ceres did in the past, her conscience bothers her and she isn’t comfortable with her new role as a Reaper. She sympathizes with those who are damned no matter the extenuating circumstances that caused them to risk an eternity in Hell. This is one of the inner conflicts Ceres must face along with her attraction, really her lust, for two very handsome Reapers who seem determined to capture her heart. One of them is her Master, Gavin, who continually confuses Ceres by being harsh with her in one scene only to turn around and show her gentleness and affection in the next. Another problem is if Gavin does like her, he is bound to the Duchess although he isn’t aware of this. And she isn’t about to let him go! Ceres’ other suitor is Ash who is sexy and says the sweetest things to Ceres to soothe her anxiety even though his motivations eventually become suspect.
I like the inclusion of romance because it only enriches an already intriguing story. I wish there had been more time spent showing the growing intensity of feelings among the characters. I felt some of the characters’ love for another was instantaneous and premature.
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The romance is clean; intimate moments occur but aren’t described in explicit detail.
This book kept me so engaged that I read most of it in one sitting and only stopped because the battery on my iPad died. It’s full of unexpected twists and suspenseful turns that caught me off guard, and I liked it!
However, I feel the ending of this book is rushed and think more elaboration is needed about what happens with Alpha Jack, the Duchess, and this new potential antagonist, Duke. I do look forward to finding out what’s next for these Reapers, and I hope little Titan will still play a role. He was fierce and adorable all at the same time. Please, Cree, don’t keep me waiting too long!
I received a copy of this book from the author to provide an honest review.
August 8, 2013
The only reason I didn't read this book in one sitting is because, at 4am, I realized I have a toddler and her energy would kick my ass if I didn't at least get some sleep.
The entire book was captivating from the get-go. I loved the characters, and I loved how in that big crowded house, not everyone got along perfectly. I've lived with tons of roommates before, and it gets awkward! Sometimes it gets borderline hostile. Ms. Walker captured that perfectly. In fact, at times she captured it a little too perfectly because I kept having flashbacks! =)
The push-and-pull relationship between Ceres and Ash was heartbreaking sometimes. They both knew, and yet...
And I totally have to go all fangirl here because OMG, I SO want a Titan of my very own! I can't tell you how many times I heard myself gushing, "Awww!" at something he was doing.
If I have any complaints at all, it's that some of the really awesome ideas in this book weren't explored more fully. They were introduced, or alluded to, and then never followed up on again. I would've liked to see how they tied into the story more, and affected the Reapers.
Unless there's a sequel, in which case I totally take it back and will wait for more!
A Winter's Grave is just what I've come to expect of Cree Walker's style: sweet, adorable, hilarious, and utterly engaging!
The entire book was captivating from the get-go. I loved the characters, and I loved how in that big crowded house, not everyone got along perfectly. I've lived with tons of roommates before, and it gets awkward! Sometimes it gets borderline hostile. Ms. Walker captured that perfectly. In fact, at times she captured it a little too perfectly because I kept having flashbacks! =)
The push-and-pull relationship between Ceres and Ash was heartbreaking sometimes. They both knew, and yet...
And I totally have to go all fangirl here because OMG, I SO want a Titan of my very own! I can't tell you how many times I heard myself gushing, "Awww!" at something he was doing.
If I have any complaints at all, it's that some of the really awesome ideas in this book weren't explored more fully. They were introduced, or alluded to, and then never followed up on again. I would've liked to see how they tied into the story more, and affected the Reapers.
Unless there's a sequel, in which case I totally take it back and will wait for more!
A Winter's Grave is just what I've come to expect of Cree Walker's style: sweet, adorable, hilarious, and utterly engaging!
October 13, 2013
Cree Walker opens the doors on a new series of books with A Winter’s Grave. The tale of a new born/ unborn? Reaper, and her journey toward understanding who and what she is and was.
Ceres, a wonderful character full of questions but not much tact, enters this family of Reapers. Their mistress, the Duchess, is one crazy tyrant. Its one thing to wake up from being dead and dying every evening, and another trying not to piss of the boss that can pop in whenever she wants. Ceres tends to put her foot into things quite often.
Gaven and Ash both vie for Ceres attention. Gaven, is totally off limits, which makes him more tempting. Ash, a werewolf in his former life, is a sly old dog that sets his sites on Ceres. What a quandary, to go for the hottie that the boss says keep away from, or the wolf that obviously wants to play.
This story twists and turns, with Ms. Walker’s crisp style of writing and humor. She pulls you in from the first page and you don’t want to put the book down. I can’t wait to see where our merry band goes from here. These characters worm their way into your heart and it’s going to make waiting for the next book really hard!
Ceres, a wonderful character full of questions but not much tact, enters this family of Reapers. Their mistress, the Duchess, is one crazy tyrant. Its one thing to wake up from being dead and dying every evening, and another trying not to piss of the boss that can pop in whenever she wants. Ceres tends to put her foot into things quite often.
Gaven and Ash both vie for Ceres attention. Gaven, is totally off limits, which makes him more tempting. Ash, a werewolf in his former life, is a sly old dog that sets his sites on Ceres. What a quandary, to go for the hottie that the boss says keep away from, or the wolf that obviously wants to play.
This story twists and turns, with Ms. Walker’s crisp style of writing and humor. She pulls you in from the first page and you don’t want to put the book down. I can’t wait to see where our merry band goes from here. These characters worm their way into your heart and it’s going to make waiting for the next book really hard!
September 28, 2013
A Winter’s Grave by Cree Walker is a spooky romantic comedy I just couldn’t stop reading. I loved the mix of twisted humor and storyline. There is a hint of romance sprinkled in that kept me guessing who Ceres would end up with at the end. Truly, this story has twists and turns that kept me guessing. I felt Ceres’ pain, confusion, love and drive. She is a strong character. She has two love interests in the book, Ash and Gavin.
Ash is the player, typically romancing all the girls, but something about Ceres makes him really take notice. He is looking for his one has he found her with Ceres?
Gavin is the house keeper. He protects and looks after everyone. He is off limits because the Demon Mistress, who is in charge, wants Gavin for herself. Ceres can’t help being drawn to Gavin. She knows she should stay away from him but she just can’t do it.
This is the kind of story you read when you really want to sink into a book and lose yourself in a great storyline. I loved every minute I got to read this book. If you are looking for a real heated romance this is not the book for you. This romance leans on the sweet side but the story is what will make you come back wanting more. I know I sure did. The ending was a bit rushed and confusing, but over all I would love to read more from Cree Walker.
Ash is the player, typically romancing all the girls, but something about Ceres makes him really take notice. He is looking for his one has he found her with Ceres?
Gavin is the house keeper. He protects and looks after everyone. He is off limits because the Demon Mistress, who is in charge, wants Gavin for herself. Ceres can’t help being drawn to Gavin. She knows she should stay away from him but she just can’t do it.
This is the kind of story you read when you really want to sink into a book and lose yourself in a great storyline. I loved every minute I got to read this book. If you are looking for a real heated romance this is not the book for you. This romance leans on the sweet side but the story is what will make you come back wanting more. I know I sure did. The ending was a bit rushed and confusing, but over all I would love to read more from Cree Walker.
July 16, 2013
Ceres is an amazing character! From the very beginning I could really relate to how she was feeling and reacting to the situations around her. One of the most well written heroines I've read. And the fact that she's a bit of a bookworm gave her a place in my reading heart very easily. She's a little socially awkward, in a very endearing way and really wants to know what happened to her to make her a Reaper. But she may be better off not knowing - her history is a huge mystery throughout the book that is revealed in little snippets from the oddest and least expected places. It was wonderful.
The reason this book didn't get 5 stars, is there was a bit of a nasty love triangle thing going for awhile. While the "other guy" knew he really wasn't going to go anywhere serious with Ceres, he stayed in the picture as a possible romance a little too long for my taste. I like knowing what hero to root for. The ending was a bit rushed as well. So much happened in about 10 pages I felt like the author ran out of time or space and had to just cram it all in as fast as she could. Up until that point it was a very well paced book. Oh, and we can't forget about Ceres' hellhound - he's a bit of a show stealer himself in an amazing cute but deadly sort of way.
The reason this book didn't get 5 stars, is there was a bit of a nasty love triangle thing going for awhile. While the "other guy" knew he really wasn't going to go anywhere serious with Ceres, he stayed in the picture as a possible romance a little too long for my taste. I like knowing what hero to root for. The ending was a bit rushed as well. So much happened in about 10 pages I felt like the author ran out of time or space and had to just cram it all in as fast as she could. Up until that point it was a very well paced book. Oh, and we can't forget about Ceres' hellhound - he's a bit of a show stealer himself in an amazing cute but deadly sort of way.
October 9, 2013
Cree has done it again, I got this book for an honest review and wow this was a great boo. Winter's Grave is a funny quirky para romanitic comedy that gave me a book hangover. I read this book in one night .Cree sucks you into a fun story with not one but two hot men and a sexy heroine. They are all reapers and Ceres is the newest member of the clan. She cant keep a job and gets the littlest hellhound out there. Just think chichaua with an attitude problem.
As the story goes along you can feel the tension between Gavin, the keeper, Ash the werewolf reaper and Ceres. Stacey is so cute with her outlandish outfits and Ezra is her friend. All this and collecting souls along the way.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good read with a little reaper and demon action on the side. I WILL WARN YOU THOUGH YOU WILL HAVE A BOOK HANGOVER CAUSE YOU CAN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN . So check it out you wont be disappointed I guarantee it
As the story goes along you can feel the tension between Gavin, the keeper, Ash the werewolf reaper and Ceres. Stacey is so cute with her outlandish outfits and Ezra is her friend. All this and collecting souls along the way.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a good read with a little reaper and demon action on the side. I WILL WARN YOU THOUGH YOU WILL HAVE A BOOK HANGOVER CAUSE YOU CAN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN . So check it out you wont be disappointed I guarantee it
August 8, 2015
This book is well written I wasn't upset that this book will have.a second in the series looking for another book in this series well done . This will be a good series if the second and third book is as Goode
As the first one I particularly hate when the following books in the series are God awful lucy, then I stop reading before I get too far in a book thinking it's is a perfect waste of my time
As the first one I particularly hate when the following books in the series are God awful lucy, then I stop reading before I get too far in a book thinking it's is a perfect waste of my time
April 22, 2013
Once again don't be put off by the cover! I found this gem on amazon and I am so glad I bought it! I could not stop reading this book! I did not go to sleep until 1am because I could not put this book down! Great new take on paranormal.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews