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Breaking, Gracefully
She reaps the dead.
He's trapped in darkness.
Together, they'll ignite a love that defies death itself.
Grace is not just grieving—she’s reaping souls as a Grim Reaper.
Haunted by her past and the death of her best friend, she hides behind her duties, refusing to let anyone close. But when Malcolm, a demon fighting his own inner darkness, crosses her path, she's faced with something even more terrifying than death the possibility of feeling alive again.
As desire blooms between them, their connection threatens to unravel the boundaries between the living and the dead, pulling them into a fight for their souls-and the fate of the afterlife.
Will Grace embrace her feelings, or will she choose the safety of the shadows she's hidden behind for so long?
Breaking, Gracefully is the first book of the Afterlife Duet, which will have a HEA.
He's trapped in darkness.
Together, they'll ignite a love that defies death itself.
Grace is not just grieving—she’s reaping souls as a Grim Reaper.
Haunted by her past and the death of her best friend, she hides behind her duties, refusing to let anyone close. But when Malcolm, a demon fighting his own inner darkness, crosses her path, she's faced with something even more terrifying than death the possibility of feeling alive again.
As desire blooms between them, their connection threatens to unravel the boundaries between the living and the dead, pulling them into a fight for their souls-and the fate of the afterlife.
Will Grace embrace her feelings, or will she choose the safety of the shadows she's hidden behind for so long?
Breaking, Gracefully is the first book of the Afterlife Duet, which will have a HEA.
377 pages, Paperback
Published February 2, 2025
16 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️A forbidden love story with a paranormal twist! If you’re a fan of an equal plot to romance ratio then read this, you won’t regret it. I love how Grace’s character portrays a woman who is strong on the exterior but the reader gets to see the internal battles she is fighting as well. And of course I love any MMC who is even slightly morally grey and with a touch of sarcasm - so Malcolm was perfect. But seriously, the plot in this book is great - can’t wait for book 2 to release!!! The twists and turns keep you hooked the whole book. Spice is 2.5 chili peppers 🌶️🌶️
November 18, 2024
Breaking, Gracefully by N.E. Butcher
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Book 1 in this Duology might be N.E. Butcher’s best work to date, and I’m an N.E. Butcher Stan. I’m not sure if this should be considered a paranormal romance because most romance books are character focused rather than plot; however, this one had such an exciting and action-packed plot! I fell in love with not only our FMC and MMC but the side characters too! Each character was sooo well developed and well-written! Additionally, the difficult concept of grief was addressed throughout the book.
The concept of a female grim reaper is so unique and refreshing in an oversaturated paranormal book world of shifters, vampires, and fae/vampires. The world building felt effortless and natural, and the world includes the Reapers, Demons, Angels, and Witches. The romance was perfectly on pace with the requisite amount of tension. The cliffhanger ending makes me ravenous for book 2.
Read this book if you like:
🌹 Forced Proximity
🌹Touch her and ☠️
🌹Emotional healing
🌹Grief rep
🌹Spicy times including some degradation kink
🌹loveable cat named Graveyard aka Gravy 😭
Overall, I loved this one and HIGHLY recommend it. Thank you to N.E. Butcher for allowing me to advance read for you yet again!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Book 1 in this Duology might be N.E. Butcher’s best work to date, and I’m an N.E. Butcher Stan. I’m not sure if this should be considered a paranormal romance because most romance books are character focused rather than plot; however, this one had such an exciting and action-packed plot! I fell in love with not only our FMC and MMC but the side characters too! Each character was sooo well developed and well-written! Additionally, the difficult concept of grief was addressed throughout the book.
The concept of a female grim reaper is so unique and refreshing in an oversaturated paranormal book world of shifters, vampires, and fae/vampires. The world building felt effortless and natural, and the world includes the Reapers, Demons, Angels, and Witches. The romance was perfectly on pace with the requisite amount of tension. The cliffhanger ending makes me ravenous for book 2.
Read this book if you like:
🌹 Forced Proximity
🌹Touch her and ☠️
🌹Emotional healing
🌹Grief rep
🌹Spicy times including some degradation kink
🌹loveable cat named Graveyard aka Gravy 😭
Overall, I loved this one and HIGHLY recommend it. Thank you to N.E. Butcher for allowing me to advance read for you yet again!!
December 14, 2024
4/5 stars 2/5 spice
Okay, I wasn’t sure what to expect about a grim reaper book, but when I read it was a female grim reaper, I knew I wanted to read it. This book gives such supernatural vibes with the reapers, angels, and demons all existing in the same plane. The action scenes were like an episode of Supernatural playing out in my head, but instead of two brothers, it was a hot female reaper and a sexy-as-sin demon. Trust me when I say the dynamic and tension added everything I could have ever wanted in a paranormal romance. The storyline of this book follows a reaper who inadvertently crosses paths with a demon who is what he seems. Trying to keep this spoiler-free, be prepared for so much to occur and so many more questions to be left unanswered. I was so intrigued by all that was happening I had a hard time putting this book down. I found it to be a fast-paced read with so much going on to keep you engaged. And let's not forget the spice that was so well written; I only wish that there was a little (a lot) bit more groveling by one very attractive demon.
Honestly, when I picked up a book about a sexy grim reaper, I was not prepared to go on such a healing journey. One huge part of this book is grief and living with the soul-crushing guilt of getting to live when someone you love doesn’t. N.E. does such an incredible job of describing grief, from the paralyzing, unable-to-leave-your-bed pain to the small moments of guilt when you are reminded of their loss. Grief and loss are so universal, and I love being able to read books that have characters struggle and move forward in a way that is so relatable. After that epilogue, I am impatiently waiting for the second book.
Okay, I wasn’t sure what to expect about a grim reaper book, but when I read it was a female grim reaper, I knew I wanted to read it. This book gives such supernatural vibes with the reapers, angels, and demons all existing in the same plane. The action scenes were like an episode of Supernatural playing out in my head, but instead of two brothers, it was a hot female reaper and a sexy-as-sin demon. Trust me when I say the dynamic and tension added everything I could have ever wanted in a paranormal romance. The storyline of this book follows a reaper who inadvertently crosses paths with a demon who is what he seems. Trying to keep this spoiler-free, be prepared for so much to occur and so many more questions to be left unanswered. I was so intrigued by all that was happening I had a hard time putting this book down. I found it to be a fast-paced read with so much going on to keep you engaged. And let's not forget the spice that was so well written; I only wish that there was a little (a lot) bit more groveling by one very attractive demon.
Honestly, when I picked up a book about a sexy grim reaper, I was not prepared to go on such a healing journey. One huge part of this book is grief and living with the soul-crushing guilt of getting to live when someone you love doesn’t. N.E. does such an incredible job of describing grief, from the paralyzing, unable-to-leave-your-bed pain to the small moments of guilt when you are reminded of their loss. Grief and loss are so universal, and I love being able to read books that have characters struggle and move forward in a way that is so relatable. After that epilogue, I am impatiently waiting for the second book.
February 3, 2025
I adored this read, and I was so honored to have the chance to read it early. This novel is something truly special.
I had a tough time liking Malcolm at the beginning. He was cocky and completely rubbed me the wrong ways, but I grew to appreciate him. His connection with Grace was superb, growing naturally into a relationship that was far more than a little steamy. *wink wink*
Initially, I kept waiting for Silas to have a redemption. He was the character I rooted for until the inevitable realization that he was just a total piece of steaming 💩 who wanted nothing more than mayhem and pain.
Mr. Grover...I'm still salty about Mr Grover. I'm not sure I'll recover from his demise. It was a really tough one that I knew was coming early on, and when the chapter arrived, I had to skip it initially. I couldn't read it. I did go back and finally read it afterward, and let's just say I was glad a tissue box was nearby.
I loved Grace and Nat's characters immensely. Their relationship was so wonderful and wholesome, very much reminding me of a sister bond. I got confused about Grace's relationship with James for the longest time, mistaking them as romantically involved rather than best friends.
This was hands down one of the best takes on a grim reaper book I've read. I can't wait for the next book!
I had a tough time liking Malcolm at the beginning. He was cocky and completely rubbed me the wrong ways, but I grew to appreciate him. His connection with Grace was superb, growing naturally into a relationship that was far more than a little steamy. *wink wink*
Initially, I kept waiting for Silas to have a redemption. He was the character I rooted for until the inevitable realization that he was just a total piece of steaming 💩 who wanted nothing more than mayhem and pain.
Mr. Grover...I'm still salty about Mr Grover. I'm not sure I'll recover from his demise. It was a really tough one that I knew was coming early on, and when the chapter arrived, I had to skip it initially. I couldn't read it. I did go back and finally read it afterward, and let's just say I was glad a tissue box was nearby.
I loved Grace and Nat's characters immensely. Their relationship was so wonderful and wholesome, very much reminding me of a sister bond. I got confused about Grace's relationship with James for the longest time, mistaking them as romantically involved rather than best friends.
This was hands down one of the best takes on a grim reaper book I've read. I can't wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
Breaking Gracefully by NE Butcher is an intriguing new book ripe with angels, demons, witches and grim reapers. Your afterlife is determined according to how heavily the scales weigh on each side. There is no Heaven or Hell and sometimes death isn’t the end.
Grace is a reaper. The afterlife isn’t all it’s cracked up to be when a loved one dies to save you. Granted I guess that’s more time to work through your grief. Grace’s healing journey starts with a reaping job gone wrong.
Malcolm is second only to the demon king. Unique in his own way, a demon with a soul. He should be dead; he was supposed to be.
This is a story of an accidental bond that brings healing and acceptance to two people who have needed it. Breaking Gracefully is a slow burn, enemies to lovers. It does have a few dark themes, murder off page and on, victim of abuse, grief, and degradation…
I love how much NE Butcher focused on the character development and the focus put on trying to heal their emotional wounds. I love the angel vs demon dynamic and how the fate of everything is dependent upon the neutrals in our world. It’s a wonderful read ripe with the second chances we can give ourselves.
If you are reading this I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!
Grace is a reaper. The afterlife isn’t all it’s cracked up to be when a loved one dies to save you. Granted I guess that’s more time to work through your grief. Grace’s healing journey starts with a reaping job gone wrong.
Malcolm is second only to the demon king. Unique in his own way, a demon with a soul. He should be dead; he was supposed to be.
This is a story of an accidental bond that brings healing and acceptance to two people who have needed it. Breaking Gracefully is a slow burn, enemies to lovers. It does have a few dark themes, murder off page and on, victim of abuse, grief, and degradation…
I love how much NE Butcher focused on the character development and the focus put on trying to heal their emotional wounds. I love the angel vs demon dynamic and how the fate of everything is dependent upon the neutrals in our world. It’s a wonderful read ripe with the second chances we can give ourselves.
If you are reading this I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!
January 21, 2025
Grace is a grim reaper, and reapers can only be people who are neutral (neither good nor evil) in life and death. Grace is a broken soul and is drowning in her grief. Malcom is a demon who sees Grace and becomes obsessed with her. Things happen (no, I can't tell you, that's called spoilers, my dude), and Grace and Malcom get into some trouble and have to work together to make it out alive. The spice in the book did not start until 75% of the way in! The build-up was intense, and they played with each other consistently to where I was like, my god guys, just do it already! I mean, they did, and the wait was definitely worth it. This book ends on a cliffhanger, and I'm still over here, like, wtf is going on and what's about to happen! This book had twists and turns I didn't see coming toward the end, and I can not wait to get my hands on book number 2! 🌶🌶 chili rating simply because the spice only happened 25% at the end. The plot was plotting, though.
April 2, 2025
I think I was expecting a lot from this book as it was about a grim reaper (or angel of death as I call them in the book I'm writing) and a demon, so was very disappointed when I started to read it.
For me, it was like reading the very very first draft of a novel (and I know what they are like, I have one printed!). While, the character's Grace and Malcolm were strong, the plot and story needed more fleshing out and work.
And while I hate be critical of any author's work, as I know their books are their pride and joy, the writing was so basic. It was a bit similar to Fifty Shades, which I never finished because EL James's writing was so terrible, even if i enjoyed the movies.
What can I say? I'm book obsessed and bibliphobic....so enjoy good books and great writing.
I'm proud and happy if anyone wanted to call me a book snob -:)
For me, it was like reading the very very first draft of a novel (and I know what they are like, I have one printed!). While, the character's Grace and Malcolm were strong, the plot and story needed more fleshing out and work.
And while I hate be critical of any author's work, as I know their books are their pride and joy, the writing was so basic. It was a bit similar to Fifty Shades, which I never finished because EL James's writing was so terrible, even if i enjoyed the movies.
What can I say? I'm book obsessed and bibliphobic....so enjoy good books and great writing.
I'm proud and happy if anyone wanted to call me a book snob -:)
January 9, 2025
N.E. Butcher does it again! Honestly if you haven’t read her other books you absolutely should. Granted Breaking Gracefully is very different from her other books as it’s a paranormal romance but the author continues to shine in writing characters with depth and emotion. While I love the main leads, the author seems to always make me fall in love with the side characters just as equally if not more at times!
The story takes place following a reaper who struggles with her grief and a demon with a soul. You also have angels and witches, it’s giving Supernatural vibes which if you love the show as much as I do, then this definitely is up your alley!
Can’t wait until the next book comes out!
The story takes place following a reaper who struggles with her grief and a demon with a soul. You also have angels and witches, it’s giving Supernatural vibes which if you love the show as much as I do, then this definitely is up your alley!
Can’t wait until the next book comes out!
January 18, 2025
I really liked this book! Love the tension between the FMC and the MMC. They both have compelling backstories. Grace’s found family is endearing and the more I learn about them, the more interested I am in the dynamics of their relationships.
I really love the premise of the book, which centers around grim reapers, demons, and angels with some witches thrown in. Love some of the specifics when it comes to their powers (i.e., tattoos/scythes).
A lot of great things were started here, and I’m looking forward to see where they take us in the next book!
I really love the premise of the book, which centers around grim reapers, demons, and angels with some witches thrown in. Love some of the specifics when it comes to their powers (i.e., tattoos/scythes).
A lot of great things were started here, and I’m looking forward to see where they take us in the next book!
October 20, 2025
Ok I originally put 4 stars but changed to 5 due to taking into consideration if I was basing it on level of spice or not.
There isn’t a TON, which in my opinion makes this a lot better and allows the story to focus on the story like.
HOWEVER this book ends on a MAJOR cliff hanger that left my jaw on the floor and now begging for the next book. What the HECK and cheese?!? I don’t even know when it’s coming out! I’m gonna need the special edition to match the one I’ve got too!
Quick read for me, story flowed REALLY well which allowed me to breeze right through the book.
There isn’t a TON, which in my opinion makes this a lot better and allows the story to focus on the story like.
HOWEVER this book ends on a MAJOR cliff hanger that left my jaw on the floor and now begging for the next book. What the HECK and cheese?!? I don’t even know when it’s coming out! I’m gonna need the special edition to match the one I’ve got too!
Quick read for me, story flowed REALLY well which allowed me to breeze right through the book.
December 16, 2024
I really enjoyed this one and am going to forever be impatiently waiting for the next! I’m super intrigued by Malcolm’s character and his past and where things left off with some of the other characters!
September 1, 2025
Very unpolished.
It is mentioned at the end that this is the author’s first book which is admittedly pretty impressive. This book gave me some Charmed vibes and that helped me keep reading instead of dnfing it.
Stellar concept, less than stellar execution.
2.5 stars
It is mentioned at the end that this is the author’s first book which is admittedly pretty impressive. This book gave me some Charmed vibes and that helped me keep reading instead of dnfing it.
Stellar concept, less than stellar execution.
2.5 stars
May 24, 2025
A sad death romance, DNF. Chapter 20. Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, read with the Alexa audio assist application. purchased this edition on February 5, 2025 for free.
April 17, 2025
Thank you to the author @nebutcher_author for the gifted
ARC. I was so happy to be selected. And I apologize for the very late review. But better late than never!
This was such a fun, emotional, amazing read. It was unique and I loved it. A Reaper, living among humans, ends up accidentally saving a soul. But it just so happens that soul was also a Demon. They're now in a soul bond and if one dies, the other dies. Grace, the Reaper, and Malcom, the Demon, have to try and break the bond. But while trying to find how to do so, they have to try and stay alive. The banter between the two-the tension, I loved every bit of it. Now granted, I did get a little upset and emotional in one of the events that happened, but I understand why the author included it. It had purpose. And if Grace can get past it. So can I. This read was encapsulating and gave so much Supernatural vibes. Also the supporting characters, Natalie, Bernadette. They're perfect. And who doesn't love a cat named Graveyard. I don't know how patient I can be waiting for the second book to find out what happens. Definitely recommend this one.
ARC. I was so happy to be selected. And I apologize for the very late review. But better late than never!
This was such a fun, emotional, amazing read. It was unique and I loved it. A Reaper, living among humans, ends up accidentally saving a soul. But it just so happens that soul was also a Demon. They're now in a soul bond and if one dies, the other dies. Grace, the Reaper, and Malcom, the Demon, have to try and break the bond. But while trying to find how to do so, they have to try and stay alive. The banter between the two-the tension, I loved every bit of it. Now granted, I did get a little upset and emotional in one of the events that happened, but I understand why the author included it. It had purpose. And if Grace can get past it. So can I. This read was encapsulating and gave so much Supernatural vibes. Also the supporting characters, Natalie, Bernadette. They're perfect. And who doesn't love a cat named Graveyard. I don't know how patient I can be waiting for the second book to find out what happens. Definitely recommend this one.
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