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A Date with Death
Not yet published
Expected 14 Jul 26Win a free print copy of this book!
10 days and 10:54:08
40 copies available
U.S. only
When the Grim Reaper develops feelings for the children’s librarian whose soul he is supposed to collect, he finds that with feelings comes something far worse than death—life.
Helena Hart isn’t having the best night. Her date just ditched her, her Halloween costume bombed, and her only sympathetic ear is a dead silent partygoer in a Grim Reaper get-up. But when she falls off a balcony and he catches her with a very real skeletal hand, she realizes he may not be a party guest at all. Before she can process the near-death experience, he vanishes, leaving her to wonder if she hallucinated the whole thing.
Grim isn’t supposed to save souls. He’s supposed to reap them. And while he’s not sure why he spared Helena, he does know that if his superiors find out, he’s as good as dust—which is saying something for a guy who’s mostly bones. But keeping away from Helena is proving harder than expected—especially when she isn’t the least bit afraid of his monstrous form.
Worse, to his horror, Helena makes him feel. And for a reaper, feeling is a fate far more dangerous than death.
Helena Hart isn’t having the best night. Her date just ditched her, her Halloween costume bombed, and her only sympathetic ear is a dead silent partygoer in a Grim Reaper get-up. But when she falls off a balcony and he catches her with a very real skeletal hand, she realizes he may not be a party guest at all. Before she can process the near-death experience, he vanishes, leaving her to wonder if she hallucinated the whole thing.
Grim isn’t supposed to save souls. He’s supposed to reap them. And while he’s not sure why he spared Helena, he does know that if his superiors find out, he’s as good as dust—which is saying something for a guy who’s mostly bones. But keeping away from Helena is proving harder than expected—especially when she isn’t the least bit afraid of his monstrous form.
Worse, to his horror, Helena makes him feel. And for a reaper, feeling is a fate far more dangerous than death.
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 14, 2026
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7036 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
*Disclaimer: I received an Advancer Reader Edition via a Goodreads Giveaway.... I really hope I clicked the right box... I'm a newbie, be kind.
Ok, since this is my first go 'round reviewing a giveaway, I'm REALLY gonna have to let the stars speak for me. In a few months, I will properly gush over this gem, but I am still me, so if a bit of my wild side comes out, I am truly sorry.
I went into this thinking three things:
1. I'm most definitely NOT going to win.
2. My last experience with a Kelly Creagh novel was a bit lackluster, so I was cautiously optimistic.
3. Do not compare this to Nevermore. You'll only hurt your own heart (that's as personal as this review gets, scout's honor)
That last bit being said... This really took me back to why I adored the Creagh's Nevermore Trilogy. There's a fair amount of humor, intriguing world-building, and you really feel for both leads in that they're both kind of lonely in vastly different worlds. Plus, it had some throwbacks to Nevermore itself (when this book is widely released, I'll explain). It also read like you had to pay attention; very detail-oriented with cute callbacks are the name of the game.
However, at times, it does read like a first attempt at an adult romance. It's the definition of a slow burn, yes, but I think we could stand to have had a bit more interaction between Grim and Helena before all the action starts. We are quite literally thrown into the plot from chapter one (no spoilers), as well as a bit more of Helena-centric exploration. There were snippets I wanted more from (i.e. phone calls with her mom that were info dumped in, and a mentioned hang out with someone named Brooke who's name dropped, but never seen). Overall, Grim felt a bit more fleshed out (no pun intended) with his co-workers/job/life than Helena does. And at first, I took issue with the pacing, how everything happened almost too quickly for me as a reader to react. But then I had to remember: we are kinda in a time-crunch. Collecting fated souls is kind of a pressing matter.
The whole explanation/ending prior to the epilogue felt a bit rushed. It may have been the most unfortunate break of "show don't tell" rule I've read in a while. The "big bad"/twist of fate just needed a bit more build-up throughout the novel.
So... why 4 stars?
I can forgive all of those issues because of the way it made me feel as a reader: like I was transported, like my mantra became "Ok, 50 pages, then I'll call it quits tonight". Yeah, right. I just went right back in for more.
I'm trying hard not to fan-girl, really put my old B.A. cap to good use instead. But in the end, it's still just me reviewing a book. Despite the pacing/lack of Helena's personal world-building, I had a good time with this. Loved the psychopomp distinction, the forms Grim takes on when interacting with Helena, and the smut. Cannot forget the smut.
Ok, since this is my first go 'round reviewing a giveaway, I'm REALLY gonna have to let the stars speak for me. In a few months, I will properly gush over this gem, but I am still me, so if a bit of my wild side comes out, I am truly sorry.
I went into this thinking three things:
1. I'm most definitely NOT going to win.
2. My last experience with a Kelly Creagh novel was a bit lackluster, so I was cautiously optimistic.
3. Do not compare this to Nevermore. You'll only hurt your own heart (that's as personal as this review gets, scout's honor)
That last bit being said... This really took me back to why I adored the Creagh's Nevermore Trilogy. There's a fair amount of humor, intriguing world-building, and you really feel for both leads in that they're both kind of lonely in vastly different worlds. Plus, it had some throwbacks to Nevermore itself (when this book is widely released, I'll explain). It also read like you had to pay attention; very detail-oriented with cute callbacks are the name of the game.
However, at times, it does read like a first attempt at an adult romance. It's the definition of a slow burn, yes, but I think we could stand to have had a bit more interaction between Grim and Helena before all the action starts. We are quite literally thrown into the plot from chapter one (no spoilers), as well as a bit more of Helena-centric exploration. There were snippets I wanted more from (i.e. phone calls with her mom that were info dumped in, and a mentioned hang out with someone named Brooke who's name dropped, but never seen). Overall, Grim felt a bit more fleshed out (no pun intended) with his co-workers/job/life than Helena does. And at first, I took issue with the pacing, how everything happened almost too quickly for me as a reader to react. But then I had to remember: we are kinda in a time-crunch. Collecting fated souls is kind of a pressing matter.
The whole explanation/ending prior to the epilogue felt a bit rushed. It may have been the most unfortunate break of "show don't tell" rule I've read in a while. The "big bad"/twist of fate just needed a bit more build-up throughout the novel.
So... why 4 stars?
I can forgive all of those issues because of the way it made me feel as a reader: like I was transported, like my mantra became "Ok, 50 pages, then I'll call it quits tonight". Yeah, right. I just went right back in for more.
I'm trying hard not to fan-girl, really put my old B.A. cap to good use instead. But in the end, it's still just me reviewing a book. Despite the pacing/lack of Helena's personal world-building, I had a good time with this. Loved the psychopomp distinction, the forms Grim takes on when interacting with Helena, and the smut. Cannot forget the smut.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Spoiler Free Summary
A woman has to outrun death from one demon while falling for the Grim Reaper.
Vibes
If you love spooky, Halloween-vibes romance like I do, this book absolutely delivers! 🎃🖤 The author blends modern humor, a compelling plot, and a swoony romance into something that feels both cozy and addictive.
The chemistry between the main characters was one of the highlights for me. Their relationship develops in such a fun, natural way that it’s impossible not to get invested. Watching them dance around defining the relationship (DTR) was especially entertaining—one of them is completely clueless while the other slowly gives in, and the dynamic makes their interactions even more enjoyable.
The humor was another standout element. The characters’ attempts at joking and communicating with each other had me laughing more than once, and the banter felt genuine rather than forced. And honestly… Hunter. That’s it. That’s the comment. If you know, you know. 😌
I also have to give credit to the plot. I went in expecting to mainly enjoy the romance and the spooky atmosphere, but the storyline itself ended up pulling me in more than I anticipated. It takes a little time to build toward the finale, but the payoff is worth it and wraps the story up in a satisfying way.
Overall, this was such a fun, seasonal read—perfect for anyone who loves a little romance mixed with spooky vibes, humor, and great character chemistry. I’d definitely recommend picking this one up when you’re in the mood for something festive and entertaining. 🎃✨
Received my free copy from NG
A woman has to outrun death from one demon while falling for the Grim Reaper.
Vibes
If you love spooky, Halloween-vibes romance like I do, this book absolutely delivers! 🎃🖤 The author blends modern humor, a compelling plot, and a swoony romance into something that feels both cozy and addictive.
The chemistry between the main characters was one of the highlights for me. Their relationship develops in such a fun, natural way that it’s impossible not to get invested. Watching them dance around defining the relationship (DTR) was especially entertaining—one of them is completely clueless while the other slowly gives in, and the dynamic makes their interactions even more enjoyable.
The humor was another standout element. The characters’ attempts at joking and communicating with each other had me laughing more than once, and the banter felt genuine rather than forced. And honestly… Hunter. That’s it. That’s the comment. If you know, you know. 😌
I also have to give credit to the plot. I went in expecting to mainly enjoy the romance and the spooky atmosphere, but the storyline itself ended up pulling me in more than I anticipated. It takes a little time to build toward the finale, but the payoff is worth it and wraps the story up in a satisfying way.
Overall, this was such a fun, seasonal read—perfect for anyone who loves a little romance mixed with spooky vibes, humor, and great character chemistry. I’d definitely recommend picking this one up when you’re in the mood for something festive and entertaining. 🎃✨
Received my free copy from NG
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a great book about finding love, acceptance and eventual redemption. I was thinking this was going to be a cute romcom where they go out on actual dates, but this was much more than that. Helena has been hurt a few times, enough to hide herself in a way but it never stops her from thinking positively and trying to find the best in people; thus how she eventually thaws Grim. Grim was pretty clear cut for the most part with his job and how efficient he was, but Helena unlocked something more in him and stirred things up for him. We have some mystery as to why things are happening the way they were and I was not expecting that ending. part of it yes but the overall reveal was not something I'd thought of. The juvenile names for cuss word replacement was a bit too much, especially from Hunter, he was pretty annoying honestly. But I love how strong Helena was for herself and for Grim as well, all the way until the end. I wish they had more scenes where they were together, the spice was pretty great but we only got 2 scenes sadly. Overall this was a really good alternate to what I thought the book was going to be. Thank you to Netgalley for giving me a chance to read this early, that in no way has influenced my review whatsoever.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. This was a fun and easy read. Helena is at a Halloween party when she runs into what she thinks is someone dressed up as the Grim Reaper. Unbeknownst to Helena, it is the real Grim Reaper. Grim was supposed to take Helena, but instead saves her. Most people don't notice or see him which throws him off. Grim heads back back to the basins, where he delivers souls. The Few then discover that a soul is missing, which creates a problem for Grim. Grim tries to hide this from his friends, Johann and Flora, but Cedric finds out. Cedric is an evil wizard who has it out for Grim. Grim then takes it upon himself to watch over Helena and protect her from Cedric. Helena can sense that someone is there and eventually Grim reveals himself to her. This leads to them getting to know each other and falling in love while trying to save Helena. I enjoyed their banter and seeing them interact with Flora and Johann. I thought the pacing in the second half was great as it was action packed and had a lot of good reveals. If you are looking for an entertaining romance with a paranormal twist, this is a good book to pick up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a super fun quick, almost cozy, read. Don't let the sweet & cute cover fool you though, once the spice gets spicy, it is HOT. Paranormal/monster smexy times are my jam moreso than contemporary romance, and Grim totally worked for me as a broody, obsessed, touch her and d!e, only sweet for her, alpha-light type MMC. I figured he would have a motorcycle (a la ghost rider maybe), but the classic car also works - that way they could have a seat belt. Would love to hear his reaper voice on audio. Loved and related to the "realness" and quirkiness of the MFC Helena. What female hasn't tried to overshare & then kept talking and asking questions/wondered why their relationship choices are trash/had a stuffy they confided in? Tons of great side characters from both main characters adding their unique charm too. While I didn't feel the ending with the "villain" quite stuck the landing, it was still very satisfying. Thanks for the ARC opportunity, NetGalley & the publisher. Looks like there might be a book 2 coming too, so that's a bonus.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
dnfd af 40%
thank you to the publisher and netgalley for giving me access to an arc in exchange for my honest review.
the premise of this book seemed amazing but it was executed in a not so good way. the wording is dated, its gives off very millennial-esque vibes. and honestly why is there a HP reference in a book being published in the year 2026?
just overall very cringe and not my style. i did enjoy that it was multiple povs.
thank you to the publisher and netgalley for giving me access to an arc in exchange for my honest review.
the premise of this book seemed amazing but it was executed in a not so good way. the wording is dated, its gives off very millennial-esque vibes. and honestly why is there a HP reference in a book being published in the year 2026?
just overall very cringe and not my style. i did enjoy that it was multiple povs.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I did enjoyed the book. This book is a 3 star rating because there were some moments that it was great and some were cringe. It’s an okay read for me. I really liked the Grim Reaper’s personality and he was interesting. I do recommend the book if you like romance mixed with supernatural.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The ultimate grumpy/sunshine read! Helena was so funny and such a delight! She was the perfect light to Grim's dark. Ugh, I'm such a sucker for the tortured hero that's only soft for his woman! I loved the banter between the main characters, as well as the found family vibes.
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 4/5
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 4/5
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wildy fun and entertaining! Who knew death could be so sexy? Love the sunshine vs dark vibes and the unique storyline dealing with reapers, souls, and what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A date with death is a swoon worthy comedy about the grim reaper and a children’s librarian that find themselves while falling in love. This book had me crying and laughing. It releases July 14th .
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews