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Grim
**September's Most Anticipated Romance Release** as voted on by the Goodreads Community.
We thought death was the end, turns out it’s just the prologue.
RUE
I died, briefly.
Then I came back.
Now I’m determined to make the most of every minute I have left.
Only problem is I’ve been saddled with supervision.
Kane Deveraux is handsome, smug, and cold as a tombstone.
So why does he make me feel something more powerful than death?
KANE
As a reaper, I have helped crossover thousands of souls.
And not one of them have touched mine…until Rue Chamberlain.
She’s stubborn, reckless, and maddeningly radiant.
And for this centuries-old spirit, she’s a living woman that is absolutely off-limits.
If I follow the rules, I will lose her.
If I break them, I might lose everything.
Grim is a darkly funny, wickedly romantic tale of life, death, and a love that refuses to rest in peace.
We thought death was the end, turns out it’s just the prologue.
RUE
I died, briefly.
Then I came back.
Now I’m determined to make the most of every minute I have left.
Only problem is I’ve been saddled with supervision.
Kane Deveraux is handsome, smug, and cold as a tombstone.
So why does he make me feel something more powerful than death?
KANE
As a reaper, I have helped crossover thousands of souls.
And not one of them have touched mine…until Rue Chamberlain.
She’s stubborn, reckless, and maddeningly radiant.
And for this centuries-old spirit, she’s a living woman that is absolutely off-limits.
If I follow the rules, I will lose her.
If I break them, I might lose everything.
Grim is a darkly funny, wickedly romantic tale of life, death, and a love that refuses to rest in peace.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
1290 people are currently reading
5901 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Krimmer
29 books1,106 followersInternational Best Selling Author
Crowned the Queen of Banter, DJ Krimmer is known through the community for her witty, smart mouthed characters.
In her books, representations of the imperfect sides of life are not hidden in the shadows, they're front and center, a reminder that everyone deserves to be a princess and have their happily ever after.
Crowned the Queen of Banter, DJ Krimmer is known through the community for her witty, smart mouthed characters.
In her books, representations of the imperfect sides of life are not hidden in the shadows, they're front and center, a reminder that everyone deserves to be a princess and have their happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,184 reviews
October 19, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up!
First off, the audiobook? Perfection. Joe Arden, James Cassidy and my new obsession SEAN MASTERS were absolutely PHENOMENAL!!!! All the female narrators were exceptional too!!!
Secondly, this was actually very fun! The plot was enjoyable and the characters were very likable especially the side characters! Death, or Big D, was my absolute favorite! He was SO SO FUNNY and his dynamic with Grim was probably my favorite part of the whole book! They were so sassy and bantery and just so funny!
My only issues had to do with their relationship. Their push and pull was kind of strange? Like they would have this passionate kiss (which happened too early on for me, but that's a personal preference) then they would just be all weird and awkward later? It was kinda weird and the time frame for their love story was too short. For the purposes of the plot, it made sense but I mean the authors could have easily remedied that imo.
The ending was somewhat rushed for me, I actually thought this would end on a cliffhanger and continue in another book.. but their plotline was resolved quickly by the end. (This could be because I am in fact a glutton for pain and angst?)
Despite these two issues, this was still very fun and spicy but not too much. I do think there is a book 2 because I felt like there were a few unresolved issues or maybe a book for another couple? Asher was sooo interesting and I wouldn't mind a book for Big D😅
First off, the audiobook? Perfection. Joe Arden, James Cassidy and my new obsession SEAN MASTERS were absolutely PHENOMENAL!!!! All the female narrators were exceptional too!!!
Secondly, this was actually very fun! The plot was enjoyable and the characters were very likable especially the side characters! Death, or Big D, was my absolute favorite! He was SO SO FUNNY and his dynamic with Grim was probably my favorite part of the whole book! They were so sassy and bantery and just so funny!
My only issues had to do with their relationship. Their push and pull was kind of strange? Like they would have this passionate kiss (which happened too early on for me, but that's a personal preference) then they would just be all weird and awkward later? It was kinda weird and the time frame for their love story was too short. For the purposes of the plot, it made sense but I mean the authors could have easily remedied that imo.
The ending was somewhat rushed for me, I actually thought this would end on a cliffhanger and continue in another book.. but their plotline was resolved quickly by the end. (This could be because I am in fact a glutton for pain and angst?)
Despite these two issues, this was still very fun and spicy but not too much. I do think there is a book 2 because I felt like there were a few unresolved issues or maybe a book for another couple? Asher was sooo interesting and I wouldn't mind a book for Big D😅
January 4, 2026
ALC Review
Joe Arden and DJ Krimmer use a graveyard, a gorgeously worn in and spirited home in New Orleans, and a bureaucratic AfterLife Processing headquarters as the backdrop to paint the portrait of a woman named Rue and her remaining nine days on Earth. We meet Kane, a centuries old Reaper who is assigned to her case…and is befuddled by his inexplicable infatuation with her OtherWorldly journey. The introduction of characters such as Death, Time, Fate and Mercy collectively give voice to the prophetic wonderings that serve as a part of our enduring curiosity of “what’s next?” after we expire.
The soundscape of this audiobook experience weaves subtlety into each setting without overtaking the story. Using originally written and composed music by Joe Arden and Jake Morris, the tone and intensity of numerous scenes are given a language that is often felt but never heard. It is used with intention, as are the environmental soundscapes. The actors lend more than their voices to the melody as well. They perform at a frequency that is impactful and not overdone are the deliberate choices of breath volume. The layering of their voices over each other in dialogue tags during multiple scenes pack a punch and make the listening experience more immersive.
Andi Eloise is our leading lady, Rue Chamberlain, and this may very well be the performance that catapults her career to new heights. Her performance is emotional and raw while holding pace with the comedic timing found within the rest of the cast. There are definitive chapters that catalogue the journey of Rue’s emotional landscape as she grapples with her remaining nine days. Andi wears Rue’s aesthetic with dignity and devilish determination.
Joe Arden, as Kane Devereaux, has a stunning evolution from lead Reaper to eternal keeper of Rue’s earthly soul. The French accent Kane speaks in matches the depiction of a centuries old French doctor. Kane has seen hundreds of years of death and destruction. You can hear the gentle shift in Kane’s character as he becomes tethered to Rue’s existence and the aura that alights the two of them is a grumpy/sunshine meets graveyard bathed in shades of purple and gray.
This story would not be nearly as well-rounded without its supporting cast. In fact, the structure in which Joe and DJ have written this story allows for these characters to live fully alongside the main characters with unique identities and stories.
Sean Masters voices two radically different characters, both with entirely different British accents and with vastly different storylines. As Seek, Sean pulls at our collective heartstrings as Rue’s young house ghost. One of my favorite and heartwarming scenes is between Rue and Seek in chapter 30. You will not leave that chapter without a tear skating down your cheek. And as Asher, he is a Reaper who may not always see “blade to blade” with Kane but has a heart that’s in the right place. Sean’s accent for Asher? Powerful, guarded and brilliantly done.
Death (Big D, Daryl) is performed by James Cassidy and is a standout performance in this story. Humor of the highest order is served up in a hollowed out skull; Death’s presence is grandiose in all the ways that matter and in ways I didn’t expect. James has a voice that can perform vocal gymnastics around all of Daryl’s eccentricities and still deliver an emotional and heartfelt character.
Lastly, Fate and Time are played by June DeBorahae and Maxine Mitchell. These two temptresses had me spellbound even though they wreak plenty of cosmic chaos in the OtherWorld. Their lyrical voices lulled me into a delicious trance; their power just as potent as the larger than life Death.
Additionally, June and Maxine voiced many supporting characters. Of note? June’s delivery as Rue’s mom cracked my heart open, and Maxine’s take on ‘Claire Simone’ the New Orleans restaurant spirit is a captivating performance.
I could continue for pages, but I’ll leave you with this — this story is best experienced in both modalities. As I listened, I followed along with the text on KU when I could. This story is impactful, and this audio is a graphic audio experience that engulfed my heart and engaged my senses. DJ and Joe, Inam grateful this story and these characters exist. And to Blue Nose, the insurmountable talent you pulled into the studio to create this magic has yielded one hell of an audiobook.
ARC Review:
Mayday: a signal transmitted three times in succession during distress. The theme of “three” runs wild in Grim, a powerful and poetic look at the potential purpose of the afterlife. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden have given us a gift with Grim. It’s a dark romantic comedy that gave me giggles and goosebumps while simultaneously dissolving my soul into free-flowing tears as I read.
Never before have I swooned over a reaper, desired to shake hands with Death, or wanted to signal a portal to the afterlife to make a deal with Time and Fate. This story has me convinced a trip from this world to the next is equal parts celebration, business as usual, and a destiny unknown until arrival. What if the unknown might just be wilder and more fulfilling than we’ve imagined?
This story centers around Rue and her premature death meet-cute in New Orleans with Kane Devereaux, a centuries old reaper who has abided by the rules of the OtherWorld hierarchy…until her. The story of Kane and Rue’s in-between life and death love flips (what many would consider the makings of a tragic love story) on its eternal axis.
The cast of characters not only serve a purpose; they mirror any mortal’s hope and fears regarding what happens “next”. Fate and Time prove to be two sisters who deliver a justice as swift and sharp as Asher and Kane’s scythes. Death, “Big D” himself, is potentially my favorite character in the story. Character development, jokes, and attitude for days? Big D delivers it all and doesn’t apologize for any of it.
Big Death Energy, indeed.
Existentially, this story gave me so many moments of quiet reflection. The writing is rich in symbolism between light and dark— and the discovery of ourselves in the shadows of it all. What these two authors have achieved in Grim is to follow the structure of a romantic comedy (it has spice, conflict and an HEA) while giving the reader moments that resonate deeper and more permanently than what is within the pages. And isn’t that the point of it all?
My final thought is this: what if Death is our redemption arc? Perhaps what delivers us to our mortal end is just an entree, and we’re cooking with pure, delicious fire beyond what we can conceive? I’d go on Rue and Kane’s journey through the thick of it to find out if the OtherWorld exists in some sort of way, just like this story conceives, for all of us.
Joe Arden and DJ Krimmer use a graveyard, a gorgeously worn in and spirited home in New Orleans, and a bureaucratic AfterLife Processing headquarters as the backdrop to paint the portrait of a woman named Rue and her remaining nine days on Earth. We meet Kane, a centuries old Reaper who is assigned to her case…and is befuddled by his inexplicable infatuation with her OtherWorldly journey. The introduction of characters such as Death, Time, Fate and Mercy collectively give voice to the prophetic wonderings that serve as a part of our enduring curiosity of “what’s next?” after we expire.
The soundscape of this audiobook experience weaves subtlety into each setting without overtaking the story. Using originally written and composed music by Joe Arden and Jake Morris, the tone and intensity of numerous scenes are given a language that is often felt but never heard. It is used with intention, as are the environmental soundscapes. The actors lend more than their voices to the melody as well. They perform at a frequency that is impactful and not overdone are the deliberate choices of breath volume. The layering of their voices over each other in dialogue tags during multiple scenes pack a punch and make the listening experience more immersive.
Andi Eloise is our leading lady, Rue Chamberlain, and this may very well be the performance that catapults her career to new heights. Her performance is emotional and raw while holding pace with the comedic timing found within the rest of the cast. There are definitive chapters that catalogue the journey of Rue’s emotional landscape as she grapples with her remaining nine days. Andi wears Rue’s aesthetic with dignity and devilish determination.
Joe Arden, as Kane Devereaux, has a stunning evolution from lead Reaper to eternal keeper of Rue’s earthly soul. The French accent Kane speaks in matches the depiction of a centuries old French doctor. Kane has seen hundreds of years of death and destruction. You can hear the gentle shift in Kane’s character as he becomes tethered to Rue’s existence and the aura that alights the two of them is a grumpy/sunshine meets graveyard bathed in shades of purple and gray.
This story would not be nearly as well-rounded without its supporting cast. In fact, the structure in which Joe and DJ have written this story allows for these characters to live fully alongside the main characters with unique identities and stories.
Sean Masters voices two radically different characters, both with entirely different British accents and with vastly different storylines. As Seek, Sean pulls at our collective heartstrings as Rue’s young house ghost. One of my favorite and heartwarming scenes is between Rue and Seek in chapter 30. You will not leave that chapter without a tear skating down your cheek. And as Asher, he is a Reaper who may not always see “blade to blade” with Kane but has a heart that’s in the right place. Sean’s accent for Asher? Powerful, guarded and brilliantly done.
Death (Big D, Daryl) is performed by James Cassidy and is a standout performance in this story. Humor of the highest order is served up in a hollowed out skull; Death’s presence is grandiose in all the ways that matter and in ways I didn’t expect. James has a voice that can perform vocal gymnastics around all of Daryl’s eccentricities and still deliver an emotional and heartfelt character.
Lastly, Fate and Time are played by June DeBorahae and Maxine Mitchell. These two temptresses had me spellbound even though they wreak plenty of cosmic chaos in the OtherWorld. Their lyrical voices lulled me into a delicious trance; their power just as potent as the larger than life Death.
Additionally, June and Maxine voiced many supporting characters. Of note? June’s delivery as Rue’s mom cracked my heart open, and Maxine’s take on ‘Claire Simone’ the New Orleans restaurant spirit is a captivating performance.
I could continue for pages, but I’ll leave you with this — this story is best experienced in both modalities. As I listened, I followed along with the text on KU when I could. This story is impactful, and this audio is a graphic audio experience that engulfed my heart and engaged my senses. DJ and Joe, Inam grateful this story and these characters exist. And to Blue Nose, the insurmountable talent you pulled into the studio to create this magic has yielded one hell of an audiobook.
ARC Review:
Mayday: a signal transmitted three times in succession during distress. The theme of “three” runs wild in Grim, a powerful and poetic look at the potential purpose of the afterlife. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden have given us a gift with Grim. It’s a dark romantic comedy that gave me giggles and goosebumps while simultaneously dissolving my soul into free-flowing tears as I read.
Never before have I swooned over a reaper, desired to shake hands with Death, or wanted to signal a portal to the afterlife to make a deal with Time and Fate. This story has me convinced a trip from this world to the next is equal parts celebration, business as usual, and a destiny unknown until arrival. What if the unknown might just be wilder and more fulfilling than we’ve imagined?
This story centers around Rue and her premature death meet-cute in New Orleans with Kane Devereaux, a centuries old reaper who has abided by the rules of the OtherWorld hierarchy…until her. The story of Kane and Rue’s in-between life and death love flips (what many would consider the makings of a tragic love story) on its eternal axis.
The cast of characters not only serve a purpose; they mirror any mortal’s hope and fears regarding what happens “next”. Fate and Time prove to be two sisters who deliver a justice as swift and sharp as Asher and Kane’s scythes. Death, “Big D” himself, is potentially my favorite character in the story. Character development, jokes, and attitude for days? Big D delivers it all and doesn’t apologize for any of it.
Big Death Energy, indeed.
Existentially, this story gave me so many moments of quiet reflection. The writing is rich in symbolism between light and dark— and the discovery of ourselves in the shadows of it all. What these two authors have achieved in Grim is to follow the structure of a romantic comedy (it has spice, conflict and an HEA) while giving the reader moments that resonate deeper and more permanently than what is within the pages. And isn’t that the point of it all?
My final thought is this: what if Death is our redemption arc? Perhaps what delivers us to our mortal end is just an entree, and we’re cooking with pure, delicious fire beyond what we can conceive? I’d go on Rue and Kane’s journey through the thick of it to find out if the OtherWorld exists in some sort of way, just like this story conceives, for all of us.
August 31, 2025
•Gothic Romance
•Paranormal Comedy
•Age Gap
•Banter
•Slow Burn
•🌶🌶.5
♡ARC Review♡
I absolutely LOVED this book. If I could rate it 6 ⭐️ I would. I really didn't want it to end! I just love when I can be completely sucked into a book and feel like I'm there. Kane and Rue's story is going to be one I remember forever. I mean, who wouldn't want a broody centuries old reaper following you around so you don't cause any trouble?? 😅 Their banter was absolutely hilarious. But not only were they hilarious, but the banter with every other character in this book was equally funny. I laughed, and I also cried. It was a perfect mixture of both emotions. Now I'm wishing I could read it for the first time again. I can't wait for y'all to read this one when it comes out September 9th!
•Paranormal Comedy
•Age Gap
•Banter
•Slow Burn
•🌶🌶.5
♡ARC Review♡
I absolutely LOVED this book. If I could rate it 6 ⭐️ I would. I really didn't want it to end! I just love when I can be completely sucked into a book and feel like I'm there. Kane and Rue's story is going to be one I remember forever. I mean, who wouldn't want a broody centuries old reaper following you around so you don't cause any trouble?? 😅 Their banter was absolutely hilarious. But not only were they hilarious, but the banter with every other character in this book was equally funny. I laughed, and I also cried. It was a perfect mixture of both emotions. Now I'm wishing I could read it for the first time again. I can't wait for y'all to read this one when it comes out September 9th!
December 5, 2025
What a great little book ! I listen to this and what an experience. It’s full cast narration, the characters are hilarious and the story is really good !
So this is the story of a grumpy French doctor turned into a Reaper ! He was a doctor in the times of the plagues and all. So he needed to quarantine before coming home to his wife whom he loved very much. So he comes home one day and finds her in bed with his brother and he kills both of them and himself. He is been a reaper ever since, collecting souls for Death who is the funniest character.
Rue our FMC has a chronic heart disease and she is dying, she’s only 26 years old and she is FUNNY, kind and lonely…. She dies and he comes to her souls but decides to save her instead since she had a few more days to live and died earlier. And that generates a full blown crisis. Death is furious, the twin sisters that controls everything Time and Faith are ENRAGED and as punishment they make him stay with her the 9 days she has to live, and since she literally died and he brought her back she can actually see, hear and TOUCH him and spirits ! And omg I was giggling the whole time….. surprisingly the book gets a little emotional in the end and I even shed a few tears…… I super recommend the audiobook on this one…. Also there is another reaper named Asher that I would love to read a book about it and OBVIOUSLY I need a book for Death because his been in love forever with Mercy 😍
So this is the story of a grumpy French doctor turned into a Reaper ! He was a doctor in the times of the plagues and all. So he needed to quarantine before coming home to his wife whom he loved very much. So he comes home one day and finds her in bed with his brother and he kills both of them and himself. He is been a reaper ever since, collecting souls for Death who is the funniest character.
Rue our FMC has a chronic heart disease and she is dying, she’s only 26 years old and she is FUNNY, kind and lonely…. She dies and he comes to her souls but decides to save her instead since she had a few more days to live and died earlier. And that generates a full blown crisis. Death is furious, the twin sisters that controls everything Time and Faith are ENRAGED and as punishment they make him stay with her the 9 days she has to live, and since she literally died and he brought her back she can actually see, hear and TOUCH him and spirits ! And omg I was giggling the whole time….. surprisingly the book gets a little emotional in the end and I even shed a few tears…… I super recommend the audiobook on this one…. Also there is another reaper named Asher that I would love to read a book about it and OBVIOUSLY I need a book for Death because his been in love forever with Mercy 😍
October 7, 2025
Fair warning This will be a book that stays with you. If you happen to see a portal for the other world take a jump and join us 😉
⭐️5 🎤5 🌶️2.4
Never in my life did I expect to enjoy a story about a reaper, a graveyard, and a guy that calls himself Big D lol — but I did! And it was absolutely amazing on so many levels.
Grim is a dark romance story packed with banter, love, humor, and life lessons. It’s fun and dangerously amazing — you won’t wanna put this one down.
From start to finish, I was invested. The story alone pulls you in. Rue is a character you’ll love inside and out her thoughts on things are such an experience to go through with her. The whole time you experience this book, it feels like you’re going through the journey with her — seeing everything through her eyes.
She’s funny, tells it how it is, says exactly what’s on her mind, and makes you laugh even in dark moments. You’ll find a sense of hope and laughter when you least expect it. If I had to reference something to help convince you guys to read this (or even just put it on your list), it would be The Good Place — with a twist. It’s not the same, but the vibe is there. One of my favorite side characters is Seek — he took my heart and ran with it.
Kane is possibly one of the nicest 💀 guys I’ve gotten to read/listen about. For a guy that’s 💀, he’s very considerate and kind — well… eventually lol. At first, he’s very grumpy (he has his reasons, I mean, everyone does at some point).
Even in the darkest times, with the help of each other, they found light within each other. Each of them brought something different — she made him feel something in his unlive days, while he made her feel comfortable with the afterlife. Overall, they complete each other in a sense. One says, “Don’t you dare!” while the other says, “Watch me!” It’s very entertaining to experience lol.
They will make you laugh, they will make you curious, they will make you sad, they will make you hurt and cry, they will give you hope, they will break you into pieces — but in the best possible way.
Kane is the complete opposite of Rue in my opinion, that’s what makes them great together. They both helped each other get out of the darkness and find their own way of making something work — and feeling alive, in a sense. Kane will definitely grow on you very quickly. He’s grumpy and spicy in a way that says “Don’t mess with me or else…”
The story is told beautifully. You know how you come across a movie, a show, or a book that stays with you and leaves an imprint on you in some type of shape or form? That’s what this does. The story is told perfectly — written amazingly. Every detail gives you an answer to something. You get emotionally invested to the point you won’t wanna put this one down! I know I didn’t.
The authors did a great job putting this together from start to end, with both big and small details. If someone were to ask me if I would change anything about this — no, absolutely not. 100% I wouldn’t change a thing because it’s perfection. It’s perfect in my eyes. There’s nothing wrong with it. Everything is top-tier — from the storytelling, to the narration, to the way it’s put together. It’s the perfect combination of everything! It’s like the movie Endgame — it’s just perfect.
Narration: I cannot say enough. I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but it’s perfect. It’s perfection. They’ve mastered it. They brought the characters to life — everyone involved gave every ounce of energy and fed off each other in the best way possible. You can seriously feel the enthusiasm and stamina coming from each voice actor.
Sean Masters (Asher): had me going back a few times just to listen to him say “Not my f*ing problem” lol. It’s one of my favorite lines. He’s super talented and puts his all into this performance, just like the rest of the cast.
Joe Arden (Kane): nailed it as always. He put his all into this performance and matched up perfectly with the other narrators. Even having main character vibes, he still balances and blends in well with the other voices — delivering one of the best performances I’ve heard.
Andi Eloise (Rue): all I gotta say is wow — they picked the right person for Rue. She brought the impact, the emotions, the vibes, and everything you need to bring a character to life. Andi brought that. If she laughed, I laughed. If she cried, I cried.
June DeBorahae (Fate): she’s become one of my new favorite narrators. This performance doesn’t disappoint — it just adds more to her character. She’s part of the puzzle for this performance, and boy oh boy, is it a beautiful puzzle.
Maxine Mitchell (Time): her performance in this speaks for itself. Maxine is a voice actor of many different traits — and this is just one of them! She makes you feel all types of emotions with this one. Maxine will always have a special place in my heart. One reason is that she narrated one of the books that got me back into reading. 🥹
James Cassidy (Big D): if you’ve listened to anything he narrates, you already know he gives 110% with his performance. His voice in this book is truly incredible. Like I told my friend today — he’s a one-man show. Put him with all the other voice actors, and it’s a party you’ll wanna be invited to lol. It’s very entertaining. One thing’s for sure — you’ll enjoy not only his performance, but all of them! And the story.
Overall, it’s an amazing book that left me speechless, which is why this review took me some time to write. Grim is truly pure magic in sound and storytelling. It’s realistically a movie for your ears — if they say it’s raining, you hear the rain if they say they’re opening the door, you hear the door. It’s such an experience. Reading it is one thing, but the audio — ohhh boy, that’s on another level!!
Give this vocal masterpiece a try — you will not be disappointed. It will leave you speechless and staring into space for a while.
A huge and special thank you to Blue Nose and the authors for the opportunity of being on the ALC team for this special story. It’s fantastic. Wishing success to everyone involved in this production, and for every listener to have the same experience I had. Some books truly stay with you forever 💜
The only thing that could possibly make this better is a movie. 🥹
I’ll end this with one of my favorite quotes that’s short and sweet.
“You’re looking $ëx in stiletto!”
⭐️5 🎤5 🌶️2.4
Never in my life did I expect to enjoy a story about a reaper, a graveyard, and a guy that calls himself Big D lol — but I did! And it was absolutely amazing on so many levels.
Grim is a dark romance story packed with banter, love, humor, and life lessons. It’s fun and dangerously amazing — you won’t wanna put this one down.
From start to finish, I was invested. The story alone pulls you in. Rue is a character you’ll love inside and out her thoughts on things are such an experience to go through with her. The whole time you experience this book, it feels like you’re going through the journey with her — seeing everything through her eyes.
She’s funny, tells it how it is, says exactly what’s on her mind, and makes you laugh even in dark moments. You’ll find a sense of hope and laughter when you least expect it. If I had to reference something to help convince you guys to read this (or even just put it on your list), it would be The Good Place — with a twist. It’s not the same, but the vibe is there. One of my favorite side characters is Seek — he took my heart and ran with it.
Kane is possibly one of the nicest 💀 guys I’ve gotten to read/listen about. For a guy that’s 💀, he’s very considerate and kind — well… eventually lol. At first, he’s very grumpy (he has his reasons, I mean, everyone does at some point).
Even in the darkest times, with the help of each other, they found light within each other. Each of them brought something different — she made him feel something in his unlive days, while he made her feel comfortable with the afterlife. Overall, they complete each other in a sense. One says, “Don’t you dare!” while the other says, “Watch me!” It’s very entertaining to experience lol.
They will make you laugh, they will make you curious, they will make you sad, they will make you hurt and cry, they will give you hope, they will break you into pieces — but in the best possible way.
Kane is the complete opposite of Rue in my opinion, that’s what makes them great together. They both helped each other get out of the darkness and find their own way of making something work — and feeling alive, in a sense. Kane will definitely grow on you very quickly. He’s grumpy and spicy in a way that says “Don’t mess with me or else…”
The story is told beautifully. You know how you come across a movie, a show, or a book that stays with you and leaves an imprint on you in some type of shape or form? That’s what this does. The story is told perfectly — written amazingly. Every detail gives you an answer to something. You get emotionally invested to the point you won’t wanna put this one down! I know I didn’t.
The authors did a great job putting this together from start to end, with both big and small details. If someone were to ask me if I would change anything about this — no, absolutely not. 100% I wouldn’t change a thing because it’s perfection. It’s perfect in my eyes. There’s nothing wrong with it. Everything is top-tier — from the storytelling, to the narration, to the way it’s put together. It’s the perfect combination of everything! It’s like the movie Endgame — it’s just perfect.
Narration: I cannot say enough. I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but it’s perfect. It’s perfection. They’ve mastered it. They brought the characters to life — everyone involved gave every ounce of energy and fed off each other in the best way possible. You can seriously feel the enthusiasm and stamina coming from each voice actor.
Sean Masters (Asher): had me going back a few times just to listen to him say “Not my f*ing problem” lol. It’s one of my favorite lines. He’s super talented and puts his all into this performance, just like the rest of the cast.
Joe Arden (Kane): nailed it as always. He put his all into this performance and matched up perfectly with the other narrators. Even having main character vibes, he still balances and blends in well with the other voices — delivering one of the best performances I’ve heard.
Andi Eloise (Rue): all I gotta say is wow — they picked the right person for Rue. She brought the impact, the emotions, the vibes, and everything you need to bring a character to life. Andi brought that. If she laughed, I laughed. If she cried, I cried.
June DeBorahae (Fate): she’s become one of my new favorite narrators. This performance doesn’t disappoint — it just adds more to her character. She’s part of the puzzle for this performance, and boy oh boy, is it a beautiful puzzle.
Maxine Mitchell (Time): her performance in this speaks for itself. Maxine is a voice actor of many different traits — and this is just one of them! She makes you feel all types of emotions with this one. Maxine will always have a special place in my heart. One reason is that she narrated one of the books that got me back into reading. 🥹
James Cassidy (Big D): if you’ve listened to anything he narrates, you already know he gives 110% with his performance. His voice in this book is truly incredible. Like I told my friend today — he’s a one-man show. Put him with all the other voice actors, and it’s a party you’ll wanna be invited to lol. It’s very entertaining. One thing’s for sure — you’ll enjoy not only his performance, but all of them! And the story.
Overall, it’s an amazing book that left me speechless, which is why this review took me some time to write. Grim is truly pure magic in sound and storytelling. It’s realistically a movie for your ears — if they say it’s raining, you hear the rain if they say they’re opening the door, you hear the door. It’s such an experience. Reading it is one thing, but the audio — ohhh boy, that’s on another level!!
Give this vocal masterpiece a try — you will not be disappointed. It will leave you speechless and staring into space for a while.
A huge and special thank you to Blue Nose and the authors for the opportunity of being on the ALC team for this special story. It’s fantastic. Wishing success to everyone involved in this production, and for every listener to have the same experience I had. Some books truly stay with you forever 💜
The only thing that could possibly make this better is a movie. 🥹
I’ll end this with one of my favorite quotes that’s short and sweet.
“You’re looking $ëx in stiletto!”
October 24, 2025
I loved this so much!
September 10, 2025
ARC Review! This book is infinity stars!
Welcome to the OtherWorld! To ALP, where your assignment awaits!
Grim by DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden is not just a book, it's something so profound that it has imbedded itself into my heart and mind, even my soul. I have never connected with an entire book before now. Grim contains symbolisms to my day to day life, an entire book that I personally and professionally connect with.
This story is one of death, love, heartbreak, empathy, and second chances. Rue, a mortal who sees the world differently, and after dying before she was supposed to, now with her time limited she wants to make every moment count. What she didn't expect was a 300 year old reaper, who is very closed off and cold. Kane, a 300 year old Reaper, who has been tasked with one job, supervises one Rue Chamberlain. Two souls who meet under sad circumstances, and with one touch so much has changed.
This story also contains so many amazing characters: Big D (Death), Asher (another Reaper), and Fate and Time (The Weaver Sisters). These other characters bring so much dynamic to the story that you want to know their stories. Big D is this larger than life character who loves twizzlers and alterations but can throw down the hammer of authority! Fate and Time are just that, they control the when and the how and do not like to be out maneuvered! Asher, is another Reaper, and we see him briefly throughout the story, he is all charm.
Grim has so much color and imagery that it flows like a movie behind your eyes. It will make you cry one minute and have you laughing from the banter and punes the next. The primary theme is death, and the words of DJ and Joe flow like a poem and make one think what is death? Is it the end? Or is the beginning of the end?
A next adventure perhaps........
Welcome to the OtherWorld! To ALP, where your assignment awaits!
Grim by DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden is not just a book, it's something so profound that it has imbedded itself into my heart and mind, even my soul. I have never connected with an entire book before now. Grim contains symbolisms to my day to day life, an entire book that I personally and professionally connect with.
This story is one of death, love, heartbreak, empathy, and second chances. Rue, a mortal who sees the world differently, and after dying before she was supposed to, now with her time limited she wants to make every moment count. What she didn't expect was a 300 year old reaper, who is very closed off and cold. Kane, a 300 year old Reaper, who has been tasked with one job, supervises one Rue Chamberlain. Two souls who meet under sad circumstances, and with one touch so much has changed.
This story also contains so many amazing characters: Big D (Death), Asher (another Reaper), and Fate and Time (The Weaver Sisters). These other characters bring so much dynamic to the story that you want to know their stories. Big D is this larger than life character who loves twizzlers and alterations but can throw down the hammer of authority! Fate and Time are just that, they control the when and the how and do not like to be out maneuvered! Asher, is another Reaper, and we see him briefly throughout the story, he is all charm.
Grim has so much color and imagery that it flows like a movie behind your eyes. It will make you cry one minute and have you laughing from the banter and punes the next. The primary theme is death, and the words of DJ and Joe flow like a poem and make one think what is death? Is it the end? Or is the beginning of the end?
A next adventure perhaps........
November 26, 2025
Šita audio book labai verta visų ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ką darytum, jei tau liktu gyventi 9 dienos?
Tokia graži, jautri mintis, klausant istorijos ne kartą graudinausi. Audio to-bu-las, užkabino ir įtraukė nuo pirmo skyriaus.
Knygoje buvo ir spice, bet atrodo jo net nereikėjo.
Imkit tikrai, aukštas įvertinimas nemelavo.
Tokia graži, jautri mintis, klausant istorijos ne kartą graudinausi. Audio to-bu-las, užkabino ir įtraukė nuo pirmo skyriaus.
Knygoje buvo ir spice, bet atrodo jo net nereikėjo.
Imkit tikrai, aukštas įvertinimas nemelavo.
October 24, 2025
A paranormal comedy that’s full of banter, laughter, and some tears. What starts as a corporate view of the afterlife turns into a beautiful story of love, loss, tragedy, and a merciful view on death. Proof that time does heal heartbreak, and new love can heal old wounds.
Rue has a genetic heart condition, when fate tries to cute her time short Kane, the reaper who is tasked to collect her soul, does something he’s never done before and gives her more time. Now he’s tasked with being her baby sitter until her official “expiration” day arrives. Now that Rue knows when exactly she’ll die, falling in love with a reaper in the 9 days she has left definitely wasn’t on her bucket list.
I had the opportunity to listen to this on audio, and it was truly an entire experience unlike anything I’ve ever listened to. This goes above and beyond graphic audio and I don’t know how I’m supposed to go back to regular audiobooks after experiencing Grim. Needless to say, this is an audiobook everyone must experience for themselves
Thank you so much to Joe Arden and DJ Krimmer for the gifted copy, and Blue Nose audio for the gifted audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Rue has a genetic heart condition, when fate tries to cute her time short Kane, the reaper who is tasked to collect her soul, does something he’s never done before and gives her more time. Now he’s tasked with being her baby sitter until her official “expiration” day arrives. Now that Rue knows when exactly she’ll die, falling in love with a reaper in the 9 days she has left definitely wasn’t on her bucket list.
I had the opportunity to listen to this on audio, and it was truly an entire experience unlike anything I’ve ever listened to. This goes above and beyond graphic audio and I don’t know how I’m supposed to go back to regular audiobooks after experiencing Grim. Needless to say, this is an audiobook everyone must experience for themselves
Thank you so much to Joe Arden and DJ Krimmer for the gifted copy, and Blue Nose audio for the gifted audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
October 3, 2025
I think I’m the first to actually leave a review!
Anywho, I devoured this ARC read. 💋
🖤 💀 Grim is sharp, and intoxicating, like a blade to the heart you can’t resist. “There is no mercy in this story” It made me laugh through the heartache. It made me swoon for the love that grew throughout the storyline. Slow burn but has some good spice too.
What a great read!
Special thanks to Blue Nose, DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden for this Arc read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
ALC REVIEW COMING SOON
Update 10/3/25
MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY!
Wow, I loved this book when I ARC read it, but the audiobook took it to a whole new level!! Took it from 4⭐️ to a 5⭐️
The added background sounds really brought the story to life, and every single narrator delivered such an incredible performance. They managed to break me all over again—but in the best way. The banter was absolutely hilarious, not just between the main characters but with the entire cast. The spice was spicier too. I laughed out loud, and I also ugly cried. It was the perfect balance of humor and heartbreak.
Huge thanks to BlueNoseAudio for this phenomenal ALC!
Anywho, I devoured this ARC read. 💋
🖤 💀 Grim is sharp, and intoxicating, like a blade to the heart you can’t resist. “There is no mercy in this story” It made me laugh through the heartache. It made me swoon for the love that grew throughout the storyline. Slow burn but has some good spice too.
What a great read!
Special thanks to Blue Nose, DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden for this Arc read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
ALC REVIEW COMING SOON
Update 10/3/25
MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY!
Wow, I loved this book when I ARC read it, but the audiobook took it to a whole new level!! Took it from 4⭐️ to a 5⭐️
The added background sounds really brought the story to life, and every single narrator delivered such an incredible performance. They managed to break me all over again—but in the best way. The banter was absolutely hilarious, not just between the main characters but with the entire cast. The spice was spicier too. I laughed out loud, and I also ugly cried. It was the perfect balance of humor and heartbreak.
Huge thanks to BlueNoseAudio for this phenomenal ALC!
September 9, 2025
I knew as I was reading this one that this book was going to be sad but I wasn’t sure why! Sad because she dies or sad because she doesn’t? There were city of angels vibes which I loved! Dying Human falling in love with a soul retrieving reaper? Yes please!
Even the side characters were entertaining! Big D cracked me up! But Seek? Had my heart! Did I cry over a ghost? You bet your ass I did!
Only thing I felt was missing… Rue being found by her mother. I’d have liked that to be added to the storyline
Even the side characters were entertaining! Big D cracked me up! But Seek? Had my heart! Did I cry over a ghost? You bet your ass I did!
Only thing I felt was missing… Rue being found by her mother. I’d have liked that to be added to the storyline
September 1, 2025
Grim written by DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden
Format: ebook
Genre: Gothic Romance
📖- 6 ⭐️
🌶️- 2 🔥
Tropes:
🖤 Grumpy Reaper
🖤 Witty FMC
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Paranormal Romance
Favorite quote: “Release yourself from what you cannot control. Give yourself the grace to be imperfect and to be comfortable with your flaws.”
ARC Review 🖤
There… It… Is…
Hauntingly. Beautiful.
“Mayday…”
What would you do if you had to say goodbye in nine days? This book shattered me and then put me back together. Rue and Kane had an epic love story that will stay with me for a long time. Thinking about their relationship and how it started, brings a giggle bubbling up, recalling the banter and bickering between them. Both are quick-witted and clever… and this my friends, is my love language. I immediately adored both of these characters and their ability to one up each other. Can one actually adore a GRIM Reaper? That being said, time nor fate will make their love easy and as we go on this journey, we find out it hurts deep.
“Don’t lie to Nana.”
This is a gothic romance BUT it’s also a comedy and let me just say, the side characters are everything. They are all important and will be remembered. I laughed out loud so many times, I’ve lost count. The antics. The charisma. The Twizzlers. It all felt organic. Oh, and that Big D energy… on point.
While devouring this addictive story, you will laugh out loud. You may even shed a tear or two, but most importantly, you will be entertained. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden are incredibly talented on their own, but together? Brilliant. They give us a devastatingly beautiful love story that will stay with me far into the future. Rue’s story is deep and emotional. My feelings were all over the spectrum and I just could not stop the tears. Forcing that kind of emotional reaction takes skill, effort and pure talent and both DJ and Joe has this in spades.
Grim made me laugh then, broke my heart. In the end, it healed the pain.
I cannot wait for everyone to experience Rue and Kane’s story.
09.09.2025
Format: ebook
Genre: Gothic Romance
📖- 6 ⭐️
🌶️- 2 🔥
Tropes:
🖤 Grumpy Reaper
🖤 Witty FMC
🖤 Slow Burn
🖤 Paranormal Romance
Favorite quote: “Release yourself from what you cannot control. Give yourself the grace to be imperfect and to be comfortable with your flaws.”
ARC Review 🖤
There… It… Is…
Hauntingly. Beautiful.
“Mayday…”
What would you do if you had to say goodbye in nine days? This book shattered me and then put me back together. Rue and Kane had an epic love story that will stay with me for a long time. Thinking about their relationship and how it started, brings a giggle bubbling up, recalling the banter and bickering between them. Both are quick-witted and clever… and this my friends, is my love language. I immediately adored both of these characters and their ability to one up each other. Can one actually adore a GRIM Reaper? That being said, time nor fate will make their love easy and as we go on this journey, we find out it hurts deep.
“Don’t lie to Nana.”
This is a gothic romance BUT it’s also a comedy and let me just say, the side characters are everything. They are all important and will be remembered. I laughed out loud so many times, I’ve lost count. The antics. The charisma. The Twizzlers. It all felt organic. Oh, and that Big D energy… on point.
While devouring this addictive story, you will laugh out loud. You may even shed a tear or two, but most importantly, you will be entertained. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden are incredibly talented on their own, but together? Brilliant. They give us a devastatingly beautiful love story that will stay with me far into the future. Rue’s story is deep and emotional. My feelings were all over the spectrum and I just could not stop the tears. Forcing that kind of emotional reaction takes skill, effort and pure talent and both DJ and Joe has this in spades.
Grim made me laugh then, broke my heart. In the end, it healed the pain.
I cannot wait for everyone to experience Rue and Kane’s story.
09.09.2025
December 21, 2025
100% viena geriausių knygų kurią skaičiau/klausiau. Audio full cast’as belekokio gėrio. Pati istorija ir prakuokino ir tarpais širdelę sudaužė. Ir juokų ir sarkazmo ir labai gero banterio čia pilna, todėl audio perklausymas šitos knygos yra BŪ-TI-NAS.
Būna kartais knygose prirašyta daug “didelių” žodžių ir pridėta nereikalingų cringe dramų tam, kad atrodytų, kad knyga yra gilesnė nei iš tikro yra, bet šita.. taip gražiai viskas sudeliota, kad tikrai paliečia tave iki širdies gelmių 🤎
Būna kartais knygose prirašyta daug “didelių” žodžių ir pridėta nereikalingų cringe dramų tam, kad atrodytų, kad knyga yra gilesnė nei iš tikro yra, bet šita.. taip gražiai viskas sudeliota, kad tikrai paliečia tave iki širdies gelmių 🤎
October 12, 2025
Some books don’t just tell a story, they shake your soul. Grim by DJ Krimmer & Joe Arden is one of those rare reads that made me laugh, ache, question, and cry… sometimes all in the same chapter.
At its heart are Rue and Kane. Their banter had me grinning like a fool, their chemistry sparking off every page. They’re witty, complicated, and unforgettable and watching their story unfold was equal parts joy and devastation.
But Grim is more than a romance. It’s about second chances, compassion, and what it means to face the inevitable. It explores the fear of knowing your fate, the ticking clock of your final days, and the unbearable weight of guiding others to theirs.
The OtherWorld isn’t a blissful Afterlife, it’s a corporate-style realm full of hierarchy, politics, powerful beings… and a surprising amount of pettiness.
This book embraces both wit and heartbreak. Some moments gutted me, others left me in awe and many will stay with me long after the final page. This wasn’t just a five-star read it was an experience. If you want a story that blends humor, romance, heartbreak, and depth, Grim is a must-read.
At its heart are Rue and Kane. Their banter had me grinning like a fool, their chemistry sparking off every page. They’re witty, complicated, and unforgettable and watching their story unfold was equal parts joy and devastation.
But Grim is more than a romance. It’s about second chances, compassion, and what it means to face the inevitable. It explores the fear of knowing your fate, the ticking clock of your final days, and the unbearable weight of guiding others to theirs.
The OtherWorld isn’t a blissful Afterlife, it’s a corporate-style realm full of hierarchy, politics, powerful beings… and a surprising amount of pettiness.
This book embraces both wit and heartbreak. Some moments gutted me, others left me in awe and many will stay with me long after the final page. This wasn’t just a five-star read it was an experience. If you want a story that blends humor, romance, heartbreak, and depth, Grim is a must-read.
did-not-finish
January 16, 2026I’m sorry I’m dnf’ing this. I’m just not vibing with the audio or the writing style. I really wanted to like this but I’m just not and I don’t wanna force it
October 13, 2025
Финална оценка: 4,25⭐ Много, много приятно изненадана. Подхванах книгата без да знам каквото и да било за нея. Само на база, че е на Blue Nose Audio и снипетите от профилите на Арден. Дори анотацията не бях прочела. И още на 15-тия процент стана ясно, че си имам работа с една много силна комбинация от автори и продукция. Тъй като нямам никакъв опит нито с Арден като автор, нито с Креймър не мога да кажа със сигурност кой с какво е допринесъл.
Това, което мога да кажа е, че:
✅ чувството за хумор е тънко и добре поднесено;
✅ размяната на закачки и остроумни реплики е бижу;
✅ героите са приятно съчетание от вече познати елементи и свежа перспектива;
✅ изказът е изтънчен, богат и диверсифициран според героя без да се усеща престараване;
✅ литературните препратки са много сладко вмъкнати;
✅ историята е увлекателна (цялата концепция за бюрокрацията на задгробния живот и забавните акроними ме убиваше 😂)
✅ темите за смъртта, смисъла на живота, милостта и прошката бяха умело поднесени;
✅ съпоставянето на Времето, Съдбата, Смъртта и Милостта беше много интересно;
✅ второстепенните герои допринасяха чудесно без да отвличат вниманието от главните герои;
✅ любовната история беше фантастична, но не по дразнещ начин, прогресираше добре и между героите имаше много хубава химия - както в спалнята, така и извън нея;
✅ секс сцените бяха малко на брой, но бяха hot AF, не превземаха сюжета по никакъв начин.
Единствените неща, които не ми харесаха бяха начина, по който прогресира финала - има нужда от повече контекст. В този си вид стои несвързано и прибързано. И това, че се промотира като slow burn, а реално не е.
По адрес на финала: подозирам, че ще има още книги и Grim ще се превърне в поредица. С което нямам никакъв проблем в случая. Дано. Ашър и Ди имат нужда от свои собствени книги.
P.S. Ако се чудиш дали да захванеш книгата на ел, хартия или аудио, хвани я на аудио. Продукцията беше феноменална 😌👌✨
Това, което мога да кажа е, че:
✅ чувството за хумор е тънко и добре поднесено;
✅ размяната на закачки и остроумни реплики е бижу;
✅ героите са приятно съчетание от вече познати елементи и свежа перспектива;
✅ изказът е изтънчен, богат и диверсифициран според героя без да се усеща престараване;
✅ литературните препратки са много сладко вмъкнати;
✅ историята е увлекателна (цялата концепция за бюрокрацията на задгробния живот и забавните акроними ме убиваше 😂)
✅ темите за смъртта, смисъла на живота, милостта и прошката бяха умело поднесени;
✅ съпоставянето на Времето, Съдбата, Смъртта и Милостта беше много интересно;
✅ второстепенните герои допринасяха чудесно без да отвличат вниманието от главните герои;
✅ любовната история беше фантастична, но не по дразнещ начин, прогресираше добре и между героите имаше много хубава химия - както в спалнята, така и извън нея;
✅ секс сцените бяха малко на брой, но бяха hot AF, не превземаха сюжета по никакъв начин.
Единствените неща, които не ми харесаха бяха начина, по който прогресира финала - има нужда от повече контекст. В този си вид стои несвързано и прибързано. И това, че се промотира като slow burn, а реално не е.
По адрес на финала: подозирам, че ще има още книги и Grim ще се превърне в поредица. С което нямам никакъв проблем в случая. Дано. Ашър и Ди имат нужда от свои собствени книги.
P.S. Ако се чудиш дали да захванеш книгата на ел, хартия или аудио, хвани я на аудио. Продукцията беше феноменална 😌👌✨
January 4, 2026
Metai prasidėjo su 6 žvaigždučių knyga?!?! I meeeaaaan, high jopes for the year!
O šiaip, "Grim" buvo wow, tamsi, klampi, juokinga, sarkastiška, karšta, jautri... pagrindiniai veikėjai tiesiog PURE PERFECTION! Big D, Time, Fate - wowowowowooow!!! 🖤
AUDIO?!!!! - Pure Perfection x2!!! 🖤
Žodžiu, puikiiiiii, nors pabaiga kiek suskubėta!
"Your father might have treated you like a princess, Rue Chamberlain,” he says as he traces my cheek with his thumb, “but I intend to make you a queen." " - aaaaaahhhhhh🫠🤤🖤
O šiaip, "Grim" buvo wow, tamsi, klampi, juokinga, sarkastiška, karšta, jautri... pagrindiniai veikėjai tiesiog PURE PERFECTION! Big D, Time, Fate - wowowowowooow!!! 🖤
AUDIO?!!!! - Pure Perfection x2!!! 🖤
Žodžiu, puikiiiiii, nors pabaiga kiek suskubėta!
"Your father might have treated you like a princess, Rue Chamberlain,” he says as he traces my cheek with his thumb, “but I intend to make you a queen." " - aaaaaahhhhhh🫠🤤🖤
August 31, 2025
I absolutely loved everything about this book! All. The. Feels. 👏 I laughed, I teared up, I felt the characters’ love and loss and desire for more. It was so, so good.
This paranormal romance follows 26-year-old Rue Chamberlain. Born with a genetic heart condition, Rue knows that her days on Earth are limited. When she briefly crosses into the realm of the dead, she meets reaper Kane Deveraux, who has now been tasked with supervising Rue until her final crossover into the OtherWorld.
I cannot say enough great things about this book. I love the tenacity of Rue. She knows she got the short end of the stick with her heart condition yet doesn’t let it change her hopeful view on life. I love the broody and cynical Kane, with his deliciously dirty mouth. These two characters are written so well and complement each other perfectly. The overarching theme of being at peace before you leave this earth was so beautiful and will absolutely resonate with anyone who has lost someone they loved.
This book has the best banter, great spice, and an ending that was just perfection. Thank you to DJ Krimmer, Joe Arden, and Blue Nose Audio for the ARC. 🩷
This paranormal romance follows 26-year-old Rue Chamberlain. Born with a genetic heart condition, Rue knows that her days on Earth are limited. When she briefly crosses into the realm of the dead, she meets reaper Kane Deveraux, who has now been tasked with supervising Rue until her final crossover into the OtherWorld.
I cannot say enough great things about this book. I love the tenacity of Rue. She knows she got the short end of the stick with her heart condition yet doesn’t let it change her hopeful view on life. I love the broody and cynical Kane, with his deliciously dirty mouth. These two characters are written so well and complement each other perfectly. The overarching theme of being at peace before you leave this earth was so beautiful and will absolutely resonate with anyone who has lost someone they loved.
This book has the best banter, great spice, and an ending that was just perfection. Thank you to DJ Krimmer, Joe Arden, and Blue Nose Audio for the ARC. 🩷
January 16, 2026
Unfortunately, Grim was a disappointment for me 🥺 The romance felt forced, the jokes weren’t funny, and the plot was extremely predictable. Everything felt shallow, with little emotional depth or originality.
This book is marketed as a dark romance, but it never actually felt dark or intense.
This just wasn’t my kind of book 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
This book is marketed as a dark romance, but it never actually felt dark or intense.
This just wasn’t my kind of book 🤷🏼♀️🤷🏼♀️
September 9, 2025
Have you ever read a book and it just touches your soul? Grim is that book! You will find yourself going through all the emotions: laughing, tearing up, pissed off, and then you’ll sit there and you will have to reflect on what you just read for a while. It’s not a book you can just move on from, it settles its way into your soul and bones, but in the best way possible. PERFECTION! Top 3 of 2025!!
Rue Chamberlain has a genetic heart condition and she knows she doesn’t have much time and well she dies…but doesn’t. Enter Grim, or Kane Deveraux, a reaper for centuries who follows the rules to the T, but this all changes the moment he meets Rue. He is able to give her 9 more days to live, but he is now connected to her for the remainder of her time.
The banter between these two had me cracking up! Rue is a sassy little thing and I loved it. The progression of their relationship was beautiful. In the beginning Rue annoyed and got under Grim’s skin. She wanted to go with him on assignments, she didn’t listen, and she asked a lot of questions. But as the days passed, their connection grew and there was this beautiful spark and love story that blossomed. When he promised her she wouldn’t be alone…my heart…he tried to come off so cold and hard, but when it came to Rue, he became soft. Their love is forbidden, the balance between life and death.
Let’s talk about the other characters…
Seek: oh my Momma heart wanted to hug him and give him a hug! Time and Fate, I think we were supposed to hate them, but they brought some good humor to the story, even though they were not the kindest. Big D…I can’t say he was my favorite, he was a bit of a jerk! Asher…I want more!!! I have a feeling there is more to him.
Rue Chamberlain has a genetic heart condition and she knows she doesn’t have much time and well she dies…but doesn’t. Enter Grim, or Kane Deveraux, a reaper for centuries who follows the rules to the T, but this all changes the moment he meets Rue. He is able to give her 9 more days to live, but he is now connected to her for the remainder of her time.
The banter between these two had me cracking up! Rue is a sassy little thing and I loved it. The progression of their relationship was beautiful. In the beginning Rue annoyed and got under Grim’s skin. She wanted to go with him on assignments, she didn’t listen, and she asked a lot of questions. But as the days passed, their connection grew and there was this beautiful spark and love story that blossomed. When he promised her she wouldn’t be alone…my heart…he tried to come off so cold and hard, but when it came to Rue, he became soft. Their love is forbidden, the balance between life and death.
Let’s talk about the other characters…
Seek: oh my Momma heart wanted to hug him and give him a hug! Time and Fate, I think we were supposed to hate them, but they brought some good humor to the story, even though they were not the kindest. Big D…I can’t say he was my favorite, he was a bit of a jerk! Asher…I want more!!! I have a feeling there is more to him.
November 18, 2025
It's a book with a killer premise (pun intended 👹), a great start (corny, but funny enough to make it work - I mean c’mon - afterlife is run like a slightly dysfunctional corporation - LIKE & RELATE) but it just doesn't quite hold it together once the romance and the actual plot are supposed to kick in 🫠
Honestly, by the end, I was kind of waving my own “mayday” flag, cuz this whole book felt like a rough first draft that just hadn’t had its makeover yet. If it had gone through a couple more editing rounds - like if someone had just taken a big red pen to polish it up - it could have actually been something really great.
It had all the ingredients for a dark, funny, thought provoking ride and then the recipe just kind of fell apart in the oven. Shame 🤡
Honestly, by the end, I was kind of waving my own “mayday” flag, cuz this whole book felt like a rough first draft that just hadn’t had its makeover yet. If it had gone through a couple more editing rounds - like if someone had just taken a big red pen to polish it up - it could have actually been something really great.
It had all the ingredients for a dark, funny, thought provoking ride and then the recipe just kind of fell apart in the oven. Shame 🤡
September 9, 2025
It is an understatement to say that Grim had it all. The story of Kane and Rue is a journey that will send you through every emotion - happiness, love, sadness, grief, anger, rage. But the emotional rollercoaster does not end with just the emotional part. The way Joe and DJ wrote this book, the cleverness behind their choices in acronyms, names, procedures will make you start deep diving into the philosophy of life and death and the afterlife.
I say this not to scare you but to encourage you. TAKE THE RIDE. I promise you will get everything you want out of this story. If you want this story to be an extremely well written love story between Kane and Rue as she lives her final days, that is exactly what it will be. But if you dare to look deeper, you will find depth among the pun and innuendo that will make you question life, death, afterlife, free will, and what it means to live.
Seriousness aside, these characters are outstanding. Their sarcastic and playful banter is so entertaining. Rue is feisty and compassionate. Kane is broody and bitter with a soft spot forming for Rue.
I say this not to scare you but to encourage you. TAKE THE RIDE. I promise you will get everything you want out of this story. If you want this story to be an extremely well written love story between Kane and Rue as she lives her final days, that is exactly what it will be. But if you dare to look deeper, you will find depth among the pun and innuendo that will make you question life, death, afterlife, free will, and what it means to live.
Seriousness aside, these characters are outstanding. Their sarcastic and playful banter is so entertaining. Rue is feisty and compassionate. Kane is broody and bitter with a soft spot forming for Rue.
October 9, 2025
Story:
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Voice Acting:
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Grim is an epic story of forbidden love, an achingly beautiful, powerful, story about death, living, loss, fear of loving again, and fear of being hurt again. This story made me ache to my bones and to my soul; it made me feel every emotion, tearing me open and stitching me back together. Grim is not all sadness, it was contemplative, there is humor, spice, and so much more. When they say some books, you really need to listen to the audio well, this is one of those books. The audio elevated the experience to a whole other level. Even after listening to the live recordings, even after reading the book, I still was not ready for this audiobook.
Rue isn’t just a girl who came back from the dead, she’s someone running out of time, even as she’s fighting to truly live. Every step she takes feels laced with a quiet desperation: Let me make this count.
Kane, the reaper bound by rules, by centuries of cold detachment, suddenly faced someone who made him feel again. He is the embodiment of restraint, holding his heart like it might shatter, because it will. Because loving Rue will cost him everything.
Rue and Kane’s story is not easy, it’s teeth-gritting, tear-spilling, soul-clutching. And yet, it’s so beautiful because they try anyway. Because they hope anyway.
The cast! Just WOW! I don’t even know how to express in words how magnificent they ALL were! I was completely mind-blown by every single one of them. I will never forget Grim, and this experience will stay with me forever. I am so grateful to DJ Krimmer, Joe Arden, the entire Cast, Blue Nose Audio, and anyone else who had a part in bringing this magical, beautiful, story to life. Thank you 💜
“Everyone deserves to be touched, Kane. Everyone deserves to feel.”
“Did I hurt you?” My voice is low, ragged, and foreign to me. “No,” she whispers in reply, her chest rising and falling with her increased breaths. “Good. Please do me the honor of returning that favor,” I beg. 💜🥺Crashing my mouth to hers, I take Rue in a kiss that could only happen when the elements of hundreds of years of repression ignite with a single lifetime of longing and passion that has yet to find its release. Combustion.”
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Voice Acting:
♾️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️
Grim is an epic story of forbidden love, an achingly beautiful, powerful, story about death, living, loss, fear of loving again, and fear of being hurt again. This story made me ache to my bones and to my soul; it made me feel every emotion, tearing me open and stitching me back together. Grim is not all sadness, it was contemplative, there is humor, spice, and so much more. When they say some books, you really need to listen to the audio well, this is one of those books. The audio elevated the experience to a whole other level. Even after listening to the live recordings, even after reading the book, I still was not ready for this audiobook.
Rue isn’t just a girl who came back from the dead, she’s someone running out of time, even as she’s fighting to truly live. Every step she takes feels laced with a quiet desperation: Let me make this count.
Kane, the reaper bound by rules, by centuries of cold detachment, suddenly faced someone who made him feel again. He is the embodiment of restraint, holding his heart like it might shatter, because it will. Because loving Rue will cost him everything.
Rue and Kane’s story is not easy, it’s teeth-gritting, tear-spilling, soul-clutching. And yet, it’s so beautiful because they try anyway. Because they hope anyway.
The cast! Just WOW! I don’t even know how to express in words how magnificent they ALL were! I was completely mind-blown by every single one of them. I will never forget Grim, and this experience will stay with me forever. I am so grateful to DJ Krimmer, Joe Arden, the entire Cast, Blue Nose Audio, and anyone else who had a part in bringing this magical, beautiful, story to life. Thank you 💜
“Everyone deserves to be touched, Kane. Everyone deserves to feel.”
“Did I hurt you?” My voice is low, ragged, and foreign to me. “No,” she whispers in reply, her chest rising and falling with her increased breaths. “Good. Please do me the honor of returning that favor,” I beg. 💜🥺Crashing my mouth to hers, I take Rue in a kiss that could only happen when the elements of hundreds of years of repression ignite with a single lifetime of longing and passion that has yet to find its release. Combustion.”
January 19, 2026
What a cute story, perfectly rounded stand-alone.
Kinda reminded me of ‘to whom the Belle tolls’ with the afterlife and such.
Absolute perfection on an audiobook, the whole production is *chef kiss*.
But Rue, girl, maybe call your mom a few more times??
Kinda reminded me of ‘to whom the Belle tolls’ with the afterlife and such.
Absolute perfection on an audiobook, the whole production is *chef kiss*.
But Rue, girl, maybe call your mom a few more times??
December 31, 2025
4,5 ⭐️
October 6, 2025
♾️
How do I even begin?
This isn’t a book. This is something greater.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙬𝙝𝙤'𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙥 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜."
I have always had a fear of dêǎth, especially after my mom left this planet. At times it’s debilitating. I think about the people I love and my ultimate ending, and well, this book helped with finding some comfort in it all, all while still being quite funny for such a subject matter. The banter had me laughing and crying; full of sarcasm, humor, fear, and sadness. Every character played a main role and etched a place within my soul.
The most amount of highlighting I’ve ever done in a book. Resonating with the words on the page made me feel less alone in my worry of the inevitable.
I don’t even know if this is my proper review. Sorting through feelings. Going through the motions. I can’t recommend this book enough. Truly.
✨UPDATING REVIEW TO INCLUDE AUDIO✨
Okay if I thought the book was worthy of infinite stars, this audio production is an IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE. Blue Nose Audio just upped the audio industry with this one. It’s a movie, no, a play, for your ears. No really, CAN THIS BE A PLAY?! I NEED IT TO BE A PLAY! Every character big and small was felt, deeply. I dabbled in graphic audio before and really didn’t like it. I know BNA does a good job no matter what, but I was hesitant and hoped it wouldn’t pull me out of the story. It pulled me completely IN. Absolute PERFECTION! This is how a graphic audio should sound! I listened to the entire audio with headphones and recommend doing this wholeheartedly. Lay down, color, read along with the book and annotate, do nothing but immerse yourself. This is not a clean your house, drive to work kinda story.
Andi Eloise as Rue Chamberlain. This role was made for her. Her portrayal as Rue showed up as strong, scared, sad, sarcastic, empathetic.. every emotion was felt and seen and heard. Rue is relatable in every single way.
Joe Arden as Kane Deveraux. His French accent is flawless. He brings so much passion to the role. A reaper going through the motions of an endless cycle, deciding to shake the mundane up a bit. I feel this could be said in real life too.
Sean Masters as Asher and Seek, as well as multiple side characters. Wowza! Each accent was met with precision. From the calm, cool, collected arch nemesis of Kane, Asher. To the scared little boy who just wanted to be found, Seek.
Maxine Mitchell and June Deboarahae absolutely impeccable as Time and Fate, and other supporting characters. Maxine’s voice was like a spider luring you to her honeyed web, while June’s was light and angelic.
James Cassidy as Big D! The comic relief we needed in this heavily emotional book. Fantastic job.
This book, and the audio, along with each voice actor, needs an award. Nothing has ever come close to this experience and it should be recognized.
How do I even begin?
This isn’t a book. This is something greater.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙬𝙝𝙤'𝙨 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙥 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜."
I have always had a fear of dêǎth, especially after my mom left this planet. At times it’s debilitating. I think about the people I love and my ultimate ending, and well, this book helped with finding some comfort in it all, all while still being quite funny for such a subject matter. The banter had me laughing and crying; full of sarcasm, humor, fear, and sadness. Every character played a main role and etched a place within my soul.
The most amount of highlighting I’ve ever done in a book. Resonating with the words on the page made me feel less alone in my worry of the inevitable.
I don’t even know if this is my proper review. Sorting through feelings. Going through the motions. I can’t recommend this book enough. Truly.
✨UPDATING REVIEW TO INCLUDE AUDIO✨
Okay if I thought the book was worthy of infinite stars, this audio production is an IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE. Blue Nose Audio just upped the audio industry with this one. It’s a movie, no, a play, for your ears. No really, CAN THIS BE A PLAY?! I NEED IT TO BE A PLAY! Every character big and small was felt, deeply. I dabbled in graphic audio before and really didn’t like it. I know BNA does a good job no matter what, but I was hesitant and hoped it wouldn’t pull me out of the story. It pulled me completely IN. Absolute PERFECTION! This is how a graphic audio should sound! I listened to the entire audio with headphones and recommend doing this wholeheartedly. Lay down, color, read along with the book and annotate, do nothing but immerse yourself. This is not a clean your house, drive to work kinda story.
Andi Eloise as Rue Chamberlain. This role was made for her. Her portrayal as Rue showed up as strong, scared, sad, sarcastic, empathetic.. every emotion was felt and seen and heard. Rue is relatable in every single way.
Joe Arden as Kane Deveraux. His French accent is flawless. He brings so much passion to the role. A reaper going through the motions of an endless cycle, deciding to shake the mundane up a bit. I feel this could be said in real life too.
Sean Masters as Asher and Seek, as well as multiple side characters. Wowza! Each accent was met with precision. From the calm, cool, collected arch nemesis of Kane, Asher. To the scared little boy who just wanted to be found, Seek.
Maxine Mitchell and June Deboarahae absolutely impeccable as Time and Fate, and other supporting characters. Maxine’s voice was like a spider luring you to her honeyed web, while June’s was light and angelic.
James Cassidy as Big D! The comic relief we needed in this heavily emotional book. Fantastic job.
This book, and the audio, along with each voice actor, needs an award. Nothing has ever come close to this experience and it should be recognized.
October 10, 2025
Audiobook: Grim takes you on an unforgettable journey through mortality, grief, and love in a way that is both captivating and deeply immersive. The phenomenal writing is brought to life by an unbelievably talented full cast of voice actors, elevating the audiobook into a true masterclass in audio narration.
I’ve never experienced an audiobook quite like Grim and I’m not sure I ever will again. The story is beautifully written, emotionally resonant, and expertly paced. The live, in-studio narration adds a raw, cinematic quality that enhances every moment. It’s not just a story you listen to it’s one you feel. And feel is exactly what you will experience with Grim.
Book: Grim is a paranormal romantic comedy that finds itself in a happy medium between laughter and emotional intrigue. I was consumed by the imagery DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden depicted throughout this beautiful story. I found myself deeply emotional at times and riding the high of the hilarious banter, which intertwined seamlessly as the characters navigated their journey between the circumstances that brought them together. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden are powerhouse artists in their own right and make pure magic with their combined artistic writing styles. Grim is an amazing book and a favorite read of 2025. These characters and their story will remain with me, and for that, I thank DJ and Joe.
I’ve never experienced an audiobook quite like Grim and I’m not sure I ever will again. The story is beautifully written, emotionally resonant, and expertly paced. The live, in-studio narration adds a raw, cinematic quality that enhances every moment. It’s not just a story you listen to it’s one you feel. And feel is exactly what you will experience with Grim.
Book: Grim is a paranormal romantic comedy that finds itself in a happy medium between laughter and emotional intrigue. I was consumed by the imagery DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden depicted throughout this beautiful story. I found myself deeply emotional at times and riding the high of the hilarious banter, which intertwined seamlessly as the characters navigated their journey between the circumstances that brought them together. DJ Krimmer and Joe Arden are powerhouse artists in their own right and make pure magic with their combined artistic writing styles. Grim is an amazing book and a favorite read of 2025. These characters and their story will remain with me, and for that, I thank DJ and Joe.
October 10, 2025
What a FANTASTIC story, by not one but two of my favorite authors. This was such an ingenious story. The comedic relief throughout the story and all the characters that these two authors brought to life was awesome. To be able to take a subject such as death and turn it into something absolutely beautiful isn’t something that most people could do, but they did it. This is a paranormal romance, with a comedic side. The spice is mild but was just the right amount for a story like this. The characters were literally all amazing, and left me wanting so much more from this universe! BRAVO Joe and DJ!
September 3, 2025
There's a balance to this book that reels you in. I'll do my best to do this book justice.
There's a grumpy sunshine element to the romance and the main characters truly fit together like the last puzzle piece.
As well as a steamy paranormal romance theres such a deep story that unfurls with the main theme being death. As much as I loved the characters' romantic connection I absolutely devoured the bits surrounding death and death's journey.
I felt each part was tastefully written and I'm left feeling a little stunned and speechless.
There's a grumpy sunshine element to the romance and the main characters truly fit together like the last puzzle piece.
As well as a steamy paranormal romance theres such a deep story that unfurls with the main theme being death. As much as I loved the characters' romantic connection I absolutely devoured the bits surrounding death and death's journey.
I felt each part was tastefully written and I'm left feeling a little stunned and speechless.
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