Grave Matters: Dark Magic Rises. Stay Grounded.

by Brian Keith Dye

Power is old. Spirit is older. And some debts demand sacrifice.

When a sacred fire tears through the hills above Jacmel, the old protections fail—and the dead go quiet. Terra Graves, a Milwaukee mambo with more grit than patience, is pulled into a war she didn’t start and refuses to lose. Vodou vèvès light the way. Enemies wear beautiful faces. The World Beneath—its bars, crossroads, and back-alley altars—prowls just under the city’s skin.

With her congregation on the run, a stolen govi pulsing with sacred power, and a newly risen Shining One out of control, Terra hunts for answers that won’t stay a vanished Solar Lodge, a Red Sect leaving bodies in their wake, and zombi-astrals that possess flesh and supplant souls. To save the people who still believe in her—and the ones who don’t—Terra will bargain with vampires, sing to the Lwa, and drag truth out of a flirty bard.

Dark magic, found family, and a city that keeps its secrets—Grave Matters launches the Terra Graves series with smoke, rhythm, and teeth.

Readers love GRAVE

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘From the very first chapter, the story grips you with vivid world building, rich Vodou elements, and a heroine who is as powerful as she is human.’ Macy A.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘What stands out most is the respect and care given to the spiritual elements. The magic feels earned, grounded, and meaningful, rather than decorative.’ Vivian.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Dark, original, and impossible to put down Grave Matters is an explosive start to a must-read urban fantasy series.’ Angie J.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I went into this story not knowing what to expect and I enjoyed the experience. I shall now look forward to the second book in the series.’ Rosie A.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Grave Matters feels fresh and intense in a way that a lot of urban fantasy doesn’t anymore. The story pulls you in fast and never really lets go…’ Cameron J.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Terra Graves is an unforgettable heroine tough, impatient, deeply human, and fiercely loyal…a strong start to what promises to be a gripping series.’ Natalie S.


Vodou mysticism & a unique magic system
Mortal vs. supernatural conflict
Found family & sharp banter
Secrets of ancestral magic
Strong heroine • Urban Fantasy

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy

345 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 23, 2026

About the author

Brian Keith Dye is a queer author and worldbuilder behind The World Beneath, an urban fantasy series where ancestral spirits, fractured magic, and supernatural politics collide.

A former English teacher who spent 15 years in South Korea, Brian has studied writing at the University of Southern California and UW–Milwaukee. He’s been telling stories since the days of trapper keepers and now writes novels filled with ghosts, grit, and tangled legacies.

Follow him online for updates, lore drops, and behind-the-scenes peeks. Remember, when dark magic rises, stay grounded.

Reviews

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am trying to stay away from authors I haven’t read before because I don’t need to add anymore authors to my plate, but I couldn’t resist this book because it seemed to be just the genre I love. Well, it definitely fits my favorite genre. Terra is an interesting character, but I have to say that Reynaud wasn’t a favorite, but it’s actually pretty complicated why, so I won’t go into it here. I really enjoyed this because it’s a belief system I don’t read much about, but it’s also a reason I couldn’t enjoy it as much as I could have because they author didn’t explain some of the aspects of this belief system until later in the book when it would have been good to know more towards the beginning. Also, I didn’t get to know the characters as well as I would have liked because this book feels like the universe is well known to the reader, almost like this isn’t the first book in the series. All these words to say that while this book isn’t perfect, I did enjoy it quite a bit after a rough start. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[MARGARET LAURA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is a fierce, electrifying launch to what promises to be an unforgettable series. Terra Graves is the kind of heroine you don’t just root for—you follow her straight into the fire. Gritty, sharp, and deeply human, she carries both spiritual authority and raw vulnerability in a way that feels authentic and compelling.
The worldbuilding is absolutely stunning. From sacred fires and glowing vèvès to shadowy lodges and the pulse of the World Beneath, every page hums with atmosphere. The blend of Vodou spirituality, dark magic, and urban grit feels rich and respectful, layered with tension and meaning. The stakes are high, the enemies are deliciously dangerous, and the supernatural elements never overshadow the emotional core of the story.
What truly stands out is the balance—darkness and rhythm, danger and devotion, found family and sacrifice. It’s bold, immersive, and unapologetically alive. Grave Matters doesn’t just tell a story—it summons one. I cannot wait to see where Terra’s journey leads next.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went looking for fantasy rooted in more diverse worlds than I typically find in fantasy and I certainly found that in Terra Graves. This is a compelling urban fantasy story with many different threads from a fantastical world that lies right beneath our noses, and deeply rooted in Haitian Vodun practices/folklore. All those different threads weave together into a story about community, trust, loss, and reclamation. I am on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what happens next in this series. I will definitely be picking up part 2 when it is published!

Note: I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed (though I will be purchasing a copy because I enjoyed it so much!)

[Ivy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, Gritty, and Full of Soul
This felt raw and alive in the best way. Grave Matters pulled me straight into Terra Graves’ world, where faith, danger, and responsibility all collide. Terra is tough and flawed, but deeply human, and the Vodou elements feel grounded and treated with real respect. The city itself feels like a character, layered with secrets and tension, and the stakes never stop climbing. Dark magic, found family, and choices that actually cost something, this was an intense, memorable start to the series.

[DandelionWings Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters by Brian Keith Dye, Author came out on January 23rd and it was absolutely fantastic. It's an urban fantasy steeped with Vodoun magic and pantheon. The FMC Terra Graves is sassy, spunky and just a well rounded character to love as she works to protect her congregation.

The worse part for me is waiting for book ii.

He's a great story teller and this was a very refreshing read.

[Francisco Great]

Grave Matters is a fierce, smoke laced triumph of urban fantasy that feels both ancient and electrifyingly new. From the first spark of sacred fire above Jacmel, the story pulses with rhythm, danger, and spiritual depth that refuses to be ornamental it’s powerful, lived-in, and deeply respected.

[Angie Jessie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters hits hard from page one smoke, rhythm, and danger woven into a rich Vodou-inspired magic system that feels authentic and alive. Terra Graves is a standout heroine: gritty, compassionate, and fearless in the face of ancient debts and modern monsters.
With blazing vèvès, dangerous bargains, vampiric enemies, and a found family worth fighting for, the story balances sharp banter with real emotional stakes. The World Beneath hums just under the city’s skin, and every secret uncovered comes at a cost.
Dark, original, and impossible to put down Grave Matters is an explosive start to a must-read urban fantasy series.

[Macy Alexa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is an atmospheric, immersive, and fiercely original urban fantasy that pulls you straight into a world where magic breathes, spirits walk, and danger moves in shadows. From the very first chapter, the story grips you with vivid worldbuilding, rich Vodou elements, and a heroine who is as powerful as she is human.

Terra Graves is a standout protagonist, gritty, vulnerable, and unshakably determined. Her fight to protect her congregation, reclaim stolen sacred power, and stop forces far darker than anyone realizes makes this book impossible to put down. The supernatural elements, the zombi-astrals, the Shining One, the hidden World Beneath, are written with such depth and imagination that they feel hauntingly real.

What truly elevates this book is the blend of mythology, mystery, danger, and found family. It’s dark, rhythmic, and full of emotion. The writing is sharp and cinematic, and every twist keeps you turning pages. If you love powerful magic systems, complex characters, and urban fantasy with genuine cultural roots, Grave Matters is absolutely a must-read.

I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers, mythology fans, and anyone looking for a fresh, captivating supernatural series.

[Krazylars · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a Goodreads Giveaway review.

I really wanted to love this one more than I did. Brian Keith Dye has created a fascinating, gritty urban fantasy version of Milwaukee, and the way he integrates Vodou into the "World Beneath" is genuinely unique and refreshing. Terra is a powerhouse of a protagonist, and her connection to the Lwa felt grounded and authentic.
However, the pacing felt off because of the sheer amount of dialogue. While I know many readers love the "snarky best friend" trope, the constant banter between Terra and Piper eventually started to pull me out of the tension. It felt like every high-stakes moment was interrupted by a quip or a long-winded back-and-forth that stalled the plot. I found myself skimming through the jokes just to get back to the actual magic and the mystery of the stolen govi.
If you love character-driven stories with tons of witty dialogue and a "found family" vibe, you’ll probably give this five stars. For me, I would have preferred more action and a bit less "talk." I’m still curious about Book 2, but I hope the sequel tightens up the script.

[Brian Dye]

Dear Reader,

Let’s get this out of the way—Grave Matters is not a cozy little candlelit fantasy where everyone learns a lesson and goes home whole. If that’s what you’re after, this book will probably haunt you in the wrong way.

This story lives where grief meets magic, where family means blood and debt, and where the past doesn’t wait politely for you to be ready. It’s dark, weird, and just a little dangerous.

If you like…

messy, complicated magic that actually costs something

found family that argues, bleeds, and still shows up

women who refuse to stay broken

spirits, veves, and Vodou that hum under the city’s skin

and a heroine who’d rather risk hell than let her world burn again

…then welcome to the World Beneath. You’re in the right place.

Grave Matters was born out of Milwaukee’s ghosts and my own questions about what we owe the dead—and what we owe ourselves. Terra Graves isn’t perfect; she’s stubborn, scarred, and still learning how to stand her ground in a world that keeps shifting beneath her. But she fights anyway.

This book is dark, defiant, and full of heart. It’s the start of something much bigger, and I couldn’t be prouder—or more grateful—that you’re here to see where it begins.

Thank you for picking it up.

—Brian Keith Dye

[Markwoodaider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is a bold, atmospheric urban fantasy that blends grit, spirituality, and raw emotional stakes into something that feels both ancient and electric. Brian Keith Dye opens the Terra Graves series with confidence, crafting a world where power hums beneath the pavement and the dead don’t always stay quiet.

Terra Graves is a standout protagonist—fierce, flawed, and deeply human. As a Milwaukee mambo navigating collapsing protections and rising supernatural threats, she carries both spiritual authority and personal vulnerability. Her voice feels authentic and grounded, even as the story dives into sacred fires, stolen govi, and forces stirring in the World Beneath. The Vodou elements aren’t just aesthetic window dressing—they feel lived-in, respected, and integral to the story’s heartbeat.

The worldbuilding is layered and immersive. From vanished lodges to the ominous Red Sect, from Shining Ones to zombi-astrals, the mythology unfolds with intrigue rather than overload. There’s a satisfying sense that the city itself is alive—watching, hiding, and remembering. The tension builds steadily, and the stakes feel real, especially as Terra’s congregation becomes collateral in a war she never asked for.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its emotional core. Beneath the magic and danger lies a powerful theme of found family and chosen responsibility. Terra isn’t just fighting enemies—she’s fighting for her people, her faith, and her identity. That grounding makes the supernatural elements hit harder.

Dark, rhythmic, and rich with spiritual texture, Grave Matters launches the Terra Graves series with authority. If you enjoy urban fantasy that leans into culture, consequence, and complex heroines, this is absolutely worth your time.

[Rosie Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grave Matters is the first book in a new urban fantasy trilogy.

Terra Graves is a Vodou Mambo who left her Haitian roots and settled in Milwaukee. Here she built up a found family and a congregation of spiritual supporters. However, devastating news about her spiritual family in Haiti arrives on Terra’s doorstep with the one sole survivor, but is he telling her the truth?

Terra walks the spirit world in search of answers; instead it creates more questions to her long growing list. Next she seeks help from an all-knowing bard who presides in an inter-dimensional bar, but his warnings add another twist—a powerful vampire makes it known that he wants an audience with Terra.

Closing in on Terra are a magical bounty hunter and a Red Sect of evil beings which all seem to lead to her unexpected house guest. Meanwhile incidents of uncontrolled magical power suggests that someone in the city needs help. What is happening to Terra’s world and is it all connected?

This is a great start to a series with plenty of interesting magical characters and a good story pace to keep the reader interested. While the Vodou theme is central there are plenty of other players with magical abilities in the mix.

The chapters are mainly told from Terra’s point of view with a sprinkling from Everett, a teenager suffering from intense headaches. I thought Everett’s sections were particularly well-written, it was obvious that a great deal of thought had gone into the language and mannerisms surrounding him and his friends.

I went into this story not knowing what to expect and I enjoyed the experience. I shall now look forward to the second book in the series.

[East of Reality · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book, but it has some issues, especially as book one in a series. First, the good. Terra is a great character, strongly rooted in her faith and her community. She’s compassionate, loyal, strong willed and open minded. As the mambo of her congregation she is both an authority and a guardian to her people. She’s immediately likable.

Second, the world building, the magic, the religion and the cultural aspects are all excellent. Rather than long exposition dumps or characters explaining everything, the book expects the reader to use context clues and discover some of the subtleties rather than hand holding you. It’s a style that really works for me. Third, the “vampire,” Farhad Rezaei. No notes, I just want to see more of him.

And then there are my personal critiques. There are so many moving pieces and too many point of view chapters for a first book, in my opinion. I feel like I have no time to get to know the main characters before I’m inundated with so many side characters. And rather than the focus being on Terra and trying to deal with the Red Sect and the new Shining One, we’re heading off to see Atlaneans, bards, fae duels, and so many more side quests.

Personally, I would have liked a tighter focus for the first book, and let some of the other players show up in sequels where more time could be given to them and more attention to make them seem more … wonderful, mysterious or powerful rather than like Terra’s neighbors. But that’s just me.

As it is, I really liked this book. I like the writing, the world building, and Terra. Highly recommend! Thank you so very much to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC!

[Natalie Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is the kind of urban fantasy that doesn’t just entertain it grabs you by the collar, pulls you into the smoke and shadows, and refuses to let go. From the opening pages, the blend of Vodou mysticism and a razor-sharp magic system feels fresh, immersive, and respectfully crafted. It’s not just window dressing; it’s the heartbeat of the story.
Terra Graves is an unforgettable heroine tough, impatient, deeply human, and fiercely loyal. Watching her navigate a world where enemies wear beautiful faces and ancestral secrets refuse to stay buried is as thrilling as it is emotional. The stakes are real, the danger hits hard, and the found-family dynamic gives the narrative warmth exactly when it’s needed.
The setting is another standout: the World Beneath hums with life, danger, and rhythm. From back-alley altars to crossroads bars, every location feels like it’s hiding history and intention. The supernatural conflict zombi-astrals, stolen sacred relics, sects leaving destruction behind is layered, high-energy, and consistently surprising.
What makes this book shine is how seamlessly action, lore, and character connection weave together. There’s sharp banter, genuine heart, and enough smoke and magic to keep the pages turning late into the night.
If you love urban fantasy with cultural depth, powerful magic, complex characters, and a heroine who will burn the world down before she lets her people fall Grave Matters is absolutely worth your shelf space. A strong start to what promises to be a gripping series.

[Luna C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is one of those urban fantasy novels that feels instantly different—in the best way. From the moment Terra Graves steps onto the page, you know you’re in capable hands. She’s tough, sharp-edged, deeply flawed, and grounded in a spiritual world that feels lived-in rather than borrowed.

The Vodou elements are handled with real respect and depth. The vèvès, the Lwa, the rituals, and the consequences of power all feel meaningful, not just aesthetic. The magic system is rich and intentional, and the World Beneath—its crossroads, altars, and hidden corners—adds an incredible sense of atmosphere. The city itself feels alive, watching, and keeping secrets.

Terra’s journey is driven by loyalty and responsibility, not ego. Whether she’s bargaining with vampires, navigating dangerous factions, or trying to protect her scattered congregation, every choice carries weight. The stakes feel personal and communal at the same time, which makes the tension hit harder.

What really stood out to me was the found-family dynamic and the banter. It adds warmth and humanity to an otherwise dark story, balancing the grit with moments of humor and connection. The antagonists are unsettling, the mysteries are layered, and the plot never slows down.

Grave Matters doesn’t just launch a series—it establishes a voice. Bold, confident, and emotionally grounded, this is urban fantasy with teeth, soul, and purpose. I finished it already eager for book two.

Highly recommended for readers who want something darker, smarter, and refreshingly original.

[Cameron Josephadams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters feels fresh and intense in a way that a lot of urban fantasy doesn’t anymore. The story pulls you in fast and never really lets go, with a mix of dark magic, sharp humor, and emotional stakes that actually land.

Terra Graves is a fantastic main character. She is tough, stubborn, and sarcastic, but she also genuinely cares about her people. She feels real, especially when she is forced to make hard choices and deal with consequences instead of easy wins. Watching her navigate a supernatural war she never asked for was one of the best parts of the book.

The magic system stood out to me right away. The use of Vodou mysticism feels thoughtful and grounded, not just window dressing. The vèvès, spirits, and ancestral ties give the world depth and make the danger feel personal. The supernatural elements like vampires, Shining Ones, and zombi astrals are creepy and interesting without feeling overdone.

I also loved the found family aspect. The side characters have great chemistry, and the banter feels natural instead of forced. Even the uneasy alliances were fun to read, especially when Terra has to work with people she does not fully trust.

Overall, Grave Matters is a strong start to a new urban fantasy series. It is dark, emotional, and full of personality. If you like supernatural stories with unique magic, a strong heroine, and a city full of secrets, this one is definitely worth reading.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is a striking blend of dark magic, spiritual lore, and gritty urban fantasy. From the opening pages, the story pulls readers into a world where ancient powers stir beneath modern streets and every debt—spiritual or otherwise—demands payment.

Terra Graves is a refreshingly complex heroine. She is tough without being invulnerable, faithful without being naïve, and fiercely protective of her people. Her struggle to protect her congregation while unraveling a web of dangerous secrets adds emotional weight and urgency to the narrative.

The plot unfolds with precision and intrigue: vanished lodges, dangerous sects, possessed bodies, and sacred objects humming with power. Each revelation deepens the mystery and raises the stakes. The supporting cast-from vampires to bards to restless spirits—adds texture and unpredictability, making the world feel expansive and alive.

What stands out most is the respect and care given to spiritual elements. The magic feels earned, grounded, and meaningful, rather than decorative. This gives the story a depth that lingers long after the final page.

For fans of urban fantasy that balances action with introspection, and darkness with heart, Grave Matters is a standout debut.

[Maddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Grave Matters" has this dark, smoky vibe with magic and spirits hiding around every corner - and I was totally into it!

Terra Graves is amazing—tough, smart, and protective of her people, but also human and even relatable. Watching her juggle supernatural threats, way too many secrets, and impossible choices definitely kept me engaged.

The magic system was really interesting. The Vodou-inspired elements feel real and important, and the spirits and ancestral connections give the story a richness that makes every moment feel alive.

The world is full of surprises, with creepy zombi-astrals, vampires, and a cast of side characters who are actually fun to read, even when alliances are a little questionable. I loved the found-family vibe - that's one of my favorite tropes.

If you like urban fantasy with high stakes, unique magic, and an awesome, heroic FMC, Grave Matters is absolutely worth reading.

Thank you to NetGalley, Brian Keith Dye, and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Tara Westover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters pulled me in from the very first page and never let go. The atmosphere is rich and immersive, blending spirit, magic, and danger in a way that feels vivid and alive.

Terra Graves is an incredible protagonist Strong, stubborn, compassionate, and fiercely determined to protect the people who believe in her. Watching her navigate a world of dark magic, ancient spirits, and hidden enemies is both thrilling and deeply emotional.

The story shines with its powerful sense of found family, layered worldbuilding, and a supernatural world that feels both mysterious and authentic. Every page carries tension, heart, and just the right touch of humor.

This is a stunning beginning to the Terra Graves series, and I’m already excited to see where Terra’s journey goes next.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is a sharp, atmospheric urban fantasy that blends dark magic, Vodou spirituality, and gritty city life. Terra Graves is a compelling protagonist tough, flawed, and fiercely protective of her people. The world building is immersive, especially the hidden World Beneath, where ancient power and modern danger collide.

The story moves at a strong pace, balancing action, mystery, and found-family dynamics. Rituals, bargains, and supernatural threats feel meaningful rather than decorative, giving the magic real weight. Bold and engaging, Grave Matters is a strong series opener that will appeal to fans of urban fantasy with depth, attitude, and soul.

[Elise Freund · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is the fresh, intense urban fantasy I've been waiting for. From page one, the world is alive. Vodou magic feels real and earned, not just decoration. The heroine, Terra Graves, is all gritty determination and fierce loyalty, making her impossible not to root for.

The plot moves with purpose: sacred fires, stolen power, and enemies in beautiful disguises. The "World Beneath" the city is a genius setting. It's dark, original, and packed with found family heart and sharp banter.

Pre-order this book. If you want an urban fantasy with teeth, rhythm, and a powerful soul, this is your next obsession. I'm already anxious for Book 2.

[B Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just say first that I haven't read urban fantasy in a long time, like years! So I loved the cover so much and the blurb was catchy so I thought "let's do this!" and I am so glad I did!

Grave Matters is a fun trip into a new world of magic and messiness! Terra Graves is a woman trying her best to keep her people safe, her old friend alive, and the loa happy! Loved it! Especially Terra and her bestie Piper. Their friendship was the highlight for me and I cannot wait to read more!

Spoiler, it ends on a cliffhanger so I can't wait for book two! And three! And four! Give me more please! Oh and spin off Peregrine and Farhad as a couple, please!

[Grayson Leighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely pulled me into Terra Graves’ world from the very first page. The blend of Vodou, spiritual power, and dark supernatural threats felt vivid and original. Terra is a fierce, unforgettable character whose strength and vulnerability make her feel real. The tension never lets up, and every revelation adds depth to the mystery. I especially loved the atmosphere of the World Beneath. It’s emotional, intense, and impossible to put down. Truly an amazing and immersive read overall experience.

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blast of fresh air in urban fantasy, raw, rhythmic, and impossible to put down.
Grave Matters had me by the throat from page one. Terra Graves isn’t your typical UF heroine, she’s tough, spiritually grounded, and refreshingly human even when standing toe-to-toe with monsters. The Vodou magic is rich, respectful, and beautifully layered into a world where every alley hides a threat. This is worldbuilding with teeth, and I’m obsessed.

[Angela Taymor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters is a bold, atmospheric start to a new urban fantasy series. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, blending Vodou, spirits, and the hidden layers of the city in a way that feels fresh and authentic. Terra Graves is a standout protagonist who is tough, flawed, and deeply human. Her determination to protect her people gives the story real emotional weight. Dark magic, sharp dialogue, and high stakes make this a gripping read from start to finish.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, atmospheric, and impossible to put down. The Vodou-based magic feels rich and original, and Terra Graves is a fierce, compelling heroine I instantly rooted for. I loved the sharp banter, the found-family dynamics, and the way the city itself feels alive with secrets—this book grabbed me from page one and never let go.

[Elliot James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters delivers everything I want in urban fantasy: a strong heroine, a unique magical framework, and a city that feels alive with secrets. The stakes are high, the enemies are complex, and the supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the story. The blend of Vodou mysticism, found family, and sharp dialogue makes this a gripping and memorable read.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grave Matters grabbed me fast and never let go. Terra Graves is sharp, stubborn, and impossible not to root for, and the mix of Vodou, dark magic, and hidden worlds beneath the city feels vivid and alive. The story is gritty, emotional, and full of atmosphere found family, dangerous bargains, and secrets that bite back making this an unforgettable start to a series I’m already eager to continue.

[Charlotte Dominion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terra Graves is a force equal parts grit, vulnerability, and unshakable will. As a Milwaukee mambo pulled into a war she never asked for, she carries the weight of faith, leadership, and survival with a voice that crackles off the page. She’s not a chosen one waiting for destiny—she’s a woman who chooses to fight, and that makes all the difference

[Diana Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and PhoenixStorm Press for the chance to read Grave matters by Brian Keith Dye. I am sorry to say I couldn't really get into this start to this new urban fantasy series. While I liked the main character, Terra, some of the dialogue was just too much and I became a bit distracted. 21/2 stars rounded up.