Secrets of Gravers Junction

by Kay Grymes

A dying stranger collapses on Bex Ellington’s farm, leaving her with a cryptic message and a strange magical affliction. She soon notices her skin changing, shifting between natural flesh and a gritty, sand-like texture as the magic within her stirs.

The one thing Bex understands is the message’s destination: Gravers Junction. Desperate for answers, she sets out with her adopted sister, Nina, across the sweeping tall grass prairies of Graveyard Territory, a fearsome land with a grim reputation where few survive.

There, Bex and Nina learn that not everyone in Graveyard Territory is human, and that survival means living by a different set of laws. When Bex interferes in a werewolf confrontation, she draws the attention of an alpha who demands retribution, not just from her, but from the town that shelters her. Given one week before his return, the people of Gravers Junction rally to prepare Bex for a fight she may not survive.

To survive, Bex must learn what it means to wield dustslinger magic and decide who to trust in a town full of secrets, including the sheriff sworn to protect it, a man who stirs feelings she believes she left buried with her husband.

Secrets of Gravers Junction is the first short novel in a new adult romantic fantasy series with alternate Old West vibes. Featuring slow-burn romance, a hidden supernatural world, found family, protective heroes, and a dangerous frontier where magic and monsters dominate the land.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

Paperback

Published March 18, 2026

About the author

Kay Grymes is the adult pen name of author Kimberly Grymes. While Kimberly Grymes writes upper YA fantasy, Kay Grymes creates fantasy stories for readers 18 and older, featuring more mature themes.

Reviews

[Andi]

I like to thank the author for allowing me to read prior to release as part of her ARC team.

This is my first read of the author's work, so my review will be unbiased. I like the idea of a western fantasy. I was a fan of Wynona Earp when it debuted, so I will say I grabbed this hoping to get some of those feelings.

I did. I think the story and the characters are perfect, and, we need more western fantasies.

However, I don't know if its the author's writing style or how the story is written that is causing issues. The story is the length of a novella, so there is that. I'm looking for more detail and background than what can possibly be given.

But let me unpack in a spoiler tag:

You have the author indicate a romance, yes. However, I find the romance contradictory and confusing. There is no slow-burn with the characters, or in the way this is trying to be depicted. When we first meet the female lead, she is still grieving over the loss of her husband. She comes to Gravers Junction and is clear that she is focused on continuing to mourn him, makes comments, and harbors thoughts of respecting his passing because she is not ready for a relationship.

However, as soon as she sees the Sheriff, takes in his 'handsome' looks, in comes the thoughts and feelings of how she is attracted to him, tries to get his attention. For a novella, it happened REALLY fast. So I ask myself - is this a plot element? Because at the end of the book he is related to a vampire clan, so is he thralling her? Is this romance real? He himself seems to have more respect on wanting to stay clear of romantic entanglements, but as soon as they have the moment in the cave lake naked, they're already fucking. It's like, where did the slow-burn go?

I find the world building also strange because it seems like Gravers Junction is in a different demi-plane of existence. Do the vampires, witches, others show themselves to mortal people? Obviously they must because they live outside Gravers Junction so they have to. Why is it that you don't hear about the rest of the Wild Wild West except for what we can infer from the cover of the book (that it's a western) and what the author allows us to know.

Then, there is the tone that the characters speak in. It's very... modern. No slang or anything, just very... out of place? In shows like Firefly, we know that it's the future but that China and the US are the defacto languages. In here, it's more of a situational thing akin to the time period. Or if this is not taking place in the 1800's western US, I'll let it go.

Again, I really like the idea, and I want to see this succeed. Looking at the reviews, I must be an outsider since I'm the only person who has done a deep dive like this. It's probably a me thing and therefore, I shall see myself out from future installments.

Overall, if you're looking for something on-tone with the writing of Cleopatra2525, Hercules, Xena, you might have fun with this.

[Stacey Markle · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating is 3.5
Some of my favourite fantasy stories are set in the wild west. I was very eager to give this one a try. There were quite a few things that worked for me and some that unfortunately didn't. 
First the the positives. The world building was very well done. It felt dangerous and tension was high...although we arent told too much of the why it was dangerous. I realky liked the different aberrants and what they could do. 
Now for the less positive for me.  The characters felt shallow and we didn't get a lot of insight into their backstory. That may come in a later book but it made it difficult to connect. Maureen was my least favourite. She went from "deary" to "I'll kill you" and back with no rhyme or reason. I couldn't grt a handle on her at all. Booker ws my fav character. 
I enjoyed the read overall

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dying woman gives her a message to deliver and a startling, unwanted gift so she journeys into the wildest, most feared lands to a little down where darkness brings terrible danger. Kay Grymes is a new to me author, but I couldn’t pass up a book with a western fantasy combo.

Secrets of Gravers Junction opens on two adopted sisters, Bex and Nina, making a journey out of their own farming community territory into the wild western unknown to deliver a message a dying woman who came to their farm entreated Bex to deliver. Suddenly after the woman’s appearance Bex is ‘gifted’ with her body suddenly turning to sand and that sand shifting and sifting over her has odd magical properties- like she can suddenly sense danger. She just wants it gone and to have delivered the message so she is willing to go beyond the limits of civilized society to a small town in the frontier territories. Nina, her adopted sister with her own secrets and mystic ability from the winds is her riding buddie.

Graver’s Junction opens their eyes to a place where supernatural creatures exist and their ignorance can get them into trouble especially when Bex figuratively thumps the nose of an alpha werewolf and ends up in a life-or-death challenge with the whole town’s safety riding on her ability to learn and use her new ‘dust slinger’ magic.

And, the sheriff of the town is an uncomfortable distraction she hadn’t expected as she has continued to grieve her late husband. Nina has told her to move on with her life as it has been years now, but Garrett and his no-relationships to interfere with his work as sheriff has caught her attention whether she wanted it or not. Nina has her own supernatural distraction, too.

But there is a showdown and everything is riding on it.

Secrets of Gravers Junction was all that I was hoping it would be. Well, at least it will be. I didn’t realize this was going to be a series so the abrupt ending with some major threads still dangling had me noticing this is a “Chronicles” series so there is more western-flavored supernatural fantasy action to come. After reading many westerns and western romances, I felt Kay Grymes captured the components of a western story very well, but also blended it with the fantasy elements so that I totally loved the ‘High Noon’ meet on the street for the showdown feel with Bex the decided underdog and gentle, meek woman showing her spine of steel by the time she needs to. Nina is tougher at first and I loved the sisters’ camaraderie.

I liked this opening salvo to the series that introduced the players, a bit of the world, and Bex’s new gift that is the catalyst to her and Nina learning their world is bigger, grittier, and more magical than they thought. I think those who enjoy either or both romantasy and western romance should give this series starter a go.

I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange of an honest review.

My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 7.8.26.

[Jamachia Marshall · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ WILD WEST SUPERNATURAL

The Secrets of Gravers Junction by Kay Grymes was such a fun and refreshing read. I really enjoyed the old western atmosphere—it had that dusty, rugged charm you expect, but still managed to feel unique and fresh rather than predictable. The setting alone pulled me right in.

The main character was another highlight for me. She had just the right amount of spunk and sass, making her easy to root for and keeping the story engaging throughout. I especially loved how her personality balanced the darker and more mysterious elements of the plot.

The introduction of the supernatural elements was done really well and added an exciting layer to the story. It opened up so many possibilities, and I found myself especially intrigued by the different characters and what they might bring to the story moving forward.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read with a lot of promise. I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next and how everything continues to unfold.

[Leigh Brooker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I have to admit I was intrigued by the premise of this one as I have never read a fantasy set in the frontier wild west before so i had to give this one a go. And I've got to say I was completely hooked, not only by the world building along with the setting but the characters themselves. It definitely wasn't what I was expecting and loved it more because of it. The magic was unique and interesting which I'm dying to know more about in the next book, and it gave a slight spin to the supernatural creatures that reside in this world. But it was the twists, turns and secrets that had me hanging on to every word and turning pages, as well as the very slow burn romance (there is spice but it's easy skipable). Yep Gravers Junction has snared me in and I can't wait to find out what happens in the next installment.

When Bex encounters a dying woman on her farm, leaving her with a magic she doesn't understand and a message, she heads to Gravers Junction with her sister Nina. But Graveyard Territory hold many secrets and not everyone who lives there is human.

I definitely loved Bex, who's relationship with her sister Nina is one of warmth, love and closeness. Though at times I did feel she was a wee bit impulsive, especially when she doesn't have all the information she needs before jumping into certain situations. Her sister Nina has a more level head but she has gifts of her own, and a calmness that Bex hasn't quite achieved yet. I'm also a bit swoony over the love interest Garrett, the towns sheriff and protector, trying to keep his distance but finding it hard. Can't wait to see how this progresses and to find out more about him as yeah, you guessed it he has secrets. There's also a great supporting cast here and my favourites are Booker, Ruby and Maureen though I can't go into to much detail as that gets into spoilers (which I don't do.). I'm excited to find out more about this world, the Dustslinger's powers and some answers to questions that have been left open.

So yep I'm now tapping my fingers waiting for book two in this delightful series, wanting to know where it will take me, and what other secrets will unfold in the future. Absolutely loved it. Totally recommend 😁

[Alyssia Cooke · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the idea of this; a western based fantasy, gunslingers, magic and werewolves amongst other things. Where the focus was on this, I was engaged. The romance elements fell completely flat for me though, which meant I struggled with it as a whole as they are a central element. It felt very insta-love and without the build up that would have made it worth investing in. I suspect had this been longer, giving more space for a slow burn build up and more exploration of the narrative as a whole, it would have been more up my street.

Bex finds herself on route to Gravers Junction after a dying woman leaves her with a final message and a strange shifting power under her skin. Her and her sister set off into the feared Graveyard Territory and find out that it's reputation is not wholly without merit. Humanity isn't the only thing making a home here. Bex needs to learn the rules of this strange place and fast, particularly when her intrusion in a conflict sets off a confrontation with a werewolf clan that could put the entire town at risk. And of course, she's fallen for a handsome guy almost at first sight.

At just over two hundred pages, this is a short and quick read and it doesn't linger long on anything, aiming to move the narrative and the romance on quickly. This is possibly the major weakness here. There's so much here that could have been savoured and explored and it's simplified down in haste. This shows in the world building as Bex struggles to come to terms with the new world she finds herself in. It also shows in both romance threads - or at least I assume they are both leading to romance, one definitely is. The novel starts with Bex still grieving the loss of her husband less than five years ago. Yet within moments of meeting the eye candy, that seems to be forgotten. There was a perfect opportunity for internal conflict here and it's passed over. The sparsity and simplicity often felt like YA, but the explicit sex would suggest otherwise.

That said, I enjoyed the characterisations here - at least when they weren't focussed on the romance angles. Bex was possibly my least favourite character - young, headstrong and foolish - making stupid mistakes even when directly told to stop and knowing she does not understand the landscape or the rules of Gravers Junction. However the surrounding characters are excellent; the characters of Gravers Junction come to life and I was invested in the day to day lives and struggles of the individuals eking out their living in this deserted town. Bex's sister is also a fascinating character and providing her romance angle doesn't go down fated mates, there's scope for that to develop into an intriguing mystery in and of itself.

All in all, this has a good idea and a really intriguing world but it felt a little too sparse for me and with too much reliance on the insta-love angle with none of the slow burn depth and complexity, particularly with the backstory of widowhood. I may hold on future instalments as I don't think I'm quite the right audience here.

[M Lowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This really is a unique story. The genre - western fantasy - grabbed my attention straight away. It ended up being more than I expected, with mysteries and unusual magic galore.

The first thing that pulled me in was the lovely relationship between sisters, Bex and Nina. They obviously care for each other and provide active support and advice, along with affectionate jibes, throughout the book. That was fun to follow! There's neurodivergent rep there too, which I found empathetically written. I think both sisters have fascinating and challenging futures ahead of them, judging by the hints that are enticingly dropped like breadcrumbs.

There's a lot of magic and paranormal beings in the story. Many of these I found to be specific to this world and compelling to watch in action, while being an indication of the author's storytelling skills.

Mysteries began piling up from page one, with some involving the characters and others the events that were driving the narrative. A few were solved but others left unanswered. I think the relatively short length of the book was the cause of this but this book is flagged as the first in a series so hopefully the author will have space in future books to add depth to her worldbuilding, flesh out the characters further and point me in the direction of some those of those answers I need.

My favourite part of the book was the developing connection between Nina and one of the werewolves. Neither are run of the mill characters as they both face uncommon tests but seem to have the wherewithal to face them head on.

Ms Grymes has left the way open for plenty of learning, growth and trials for the MC's and I can't wait to see that unfold.

•○●○• •○●○• •○●○• •○●○• •○●○•


"I think it’s time to stop clinging to the past and be open to life’s possibilities."

[Chloe Woodley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Tropes:
Alternate old west prairie lands
Lots of magic
Isolated supernatural territory
“Short” novel
Found family
Slow burn
Strangers to lovers
Book one spice level:🌶️

(There might be some minor spoilers in my review)

This is definitely the first book in a series. It’s a slow burn and not a lot happens but at the same time a lot happens in this book if that makes sense. It sets up the world and the series perfectly for the next books. It’s even set up for potential stories about other characters and/or different territories in the world (not saying this will happen but it would be cool if the author did this). I love that fact it’s an old western fantasy romance. I’ve never read a book like this and hopefully this book starts a trend because I would like to read more fantasy romance books with an old western aspect to it. I love the sister’s bond, and that they are traveling together because they wouldn’t let each other travel alone. The supernatural creatures that are introduced in this first book and that are mentioned are very unique, there are your typical supernatural creatures like werewolves, vampires and demons but there’s also unique creatures as well. The FMC is not your typical FMC(At least I think so) she isn’t strong and she doesn’t know how to fight, her sister is the strong one and the fighter. The MMC doesn’t want to fall in love with the FMC because he has to protect the town from evil and he thinks falling in love will be a distraction. I really like this book and can’t wait for the next one!!!

This book also ends on a cliff hanger.(not really surprising though as it’s the first book in a series)

This Is an ARC Review. I got this ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Sonderous Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tasked with delivering a message to Gravers Junction, Bex and her sister find themselves on a whirlwind of an adventure that uncovers a world far different from the one they knew. With Bex afflicted by a mysterious ability, answers lie in a town full of secrets. But now bound by laws she was not aware of, she is stirring up just as much trouble as she is dust. Can she get a handle on this reality? Or will the storms she brews sweep her away?


I received an ARC of “Secrets of Gravers Junction” from Kay Grymes after reading the blurb in her last newsletter. A western with a supernatural spin, the novel sets us down in  Graveyard Territory, where nothing is what it seems. Bex is a driven, curious, and assertive FMC that knows what she wants and when, which was truly a breath of fresh air when it came to her interactions with Garret. Meanwhile, Nina, Bex’s adopted sister, comes into her own as she dives into the mysterious town of Gravers Junction. I loved both of these characters equally and absolutely cannot wait to meet these characters again in the next part of the series!


If monsters, mayhem, and magic are your cup of tea, “Secrets of Gravers Junction” is the book for you. As a first foray into westerns (both audience and author), it is an excellently written story with amazing characters and a new twist to the supernatural beings we all know and love.

[MinsBookNook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this short novel, it was so well written I was sucked in from the beginning. I was held captive, similar to the MC Bex and her sister Nina, you wanted to find out what secrets were being kept in Gravers Junction. Then once one secret was revealed more questions popped up, allowing the world to be shaped while the story progressed.

If you are after a spicy short story this is not the town for it, love is not on the cards here, its too dangerous. Or is it??? There was a slooooooooow burn between Bex and Garret and potentially something between Nina and Hunter? Is there a fated bond, or is there something else between the two?
As you can see the love interest was not the focus of the story and there is so much intrigue in the rest of the supernatural town that it was not needed for the story.

This was my first book by Kay and I will definitely be keep a watch to see if there are more short stories Gravers Junction or *fingers crossed* longer novel because I would eat that up!

Thank you Kay Grymes for the copy to read for my honest opinion.
🌶️

Tropes:
💋Slow burn romance
💖Strangers to Lovers
🌶️Low spice (on page sexual content)

Fantasy elements...
✨Magic
🐺werewolves
🦇vampires
🧟‍♀️monsters
🐜critters
🗿new supernatural beings

The story world looks like...
🤠western themes
🌀Magic in the earth
🌾Prairie land

[Kelly Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay but WHY was this so Kelly-coded... From the moment it popped up on my feed I knew I had to read it. Romantic fantasy. Old West vibes. Hidden supernatural town. I didn’t even hesitate; I signed up for the ARC immediately.

Secrets of Gravers Junction absolutely delivered. It’s a short novel, but don’t let that fool you.... this book packs a punch. The pacing was spot on, building the world without overwhelming you and perfectly setting up what’s to come in the series.

Bex’s dustslinger magic? The gritty, sand-like skin shifts? I was hooked. The alternate frontier setting felt fresh and cinematic, and I genuinely can’t think of another supernatural story that leans into this kind of Old West atmosphere in quite the same way. It felt creative and new while still giving us those delicious romantic fantasy staples.

The slow burn is SLOW burning (respectfully), and I am sat for whatever is about to unfold between Bex and Garrett. And Nina and Hunter?? The tension potential there??? Say less.

Found family, protective energy, secrets everywhere, and monsters lurking on the prairie... this was such a fun, intriguing start to the series.

Also… that cover? Gorge. Absolute gorge. 🤌✨

Thanks to the author for an early copy. All opinions are my own.

[Eden B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

A big thank you to Kay Grymes for the opportunity to read this book as an arc! I am a lover of westerns ever since I was a kid. I remember loosing many hours of sleep because of a good historical fiction. When I heard the words Classic western and magic, I was instantly sold.
Firstly the things I loved about this book. Gravers Junction is such an amazing idea of a place. The town seems like a normal western town, but there are so many secrets hiding underneath the surface. The magic system is fascinating, specifically Bex’s Dustsligner powers in fights had me “oooohhh” ing out loud. The citizens were definitely my favourite with each having their own unique personalities and secrets, but that also leads to the cons of this book.
I really felt like we needed more time creating relationships between characters. Everyone felt quite to accept and to release secrets to our FMCs who hadn’t even decided if they wanted to be a part of the town yet. The love story was missing the emotional work of choosing to try again after loosing the last one (at least one of them choose.) I really felt like there was so much more under all of these life stories that could have made me emotionally invest and connect

[Elika Ferdowsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to recieve an ARC for the "Secrets of Gravers Junction." I really appreciate the opportunity!

This amazing book felt so different from a lot of the fantasy romance I usually read, especially with the western vibe, and I truly loved that about it. It made the story feel really fresh and unique. I also grew so attached to the characters, especially the sisters, Nina and Bex. Their sisterly bond was one of my favorite parts of the story.

I loved the supernatural elements too, like the werewolves, magic, vampires, and Bex becoming the new dustslinger. Watching Bex embrace her powers and want to learn more about the town’s history and her abilities was so fun to read. And I have to say, the slow-burn strangers-to-lovers energy between Bex and Garrett had me obsessed! They’re honestly so adorable, and I’d love to see more of their relationship 😊.

Overall, this was such a fun and fast read that I finished in a few days. I definitely recommend it to readers looking for a fantasy romance with a unique western twist and strong sister dynamics. If you want a fun change of scenery from the usual romantasy settings, I highly recommend this one.

[Lindsey_reads_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been needing a book like this! Fantasy meets the Wild West and it was 5 star for me.

This is a shorter book, I do not think it is considered a novella only because it is under 300 pages but it was perfectly paced and a real page turner with light world building.

The magic and tension between Bex and Garret - that scene from chapter 11! ❤️ It was just so easy to love and enjoy this story. I loved supernatural town in the western prairie and all the mystery tied to it. The descriptions of the dustslinger magic and the spirits of the land had me spellbound. The sister bond of Bex and Nina was heartwarming. Over all every character was written well, there are many side characters in the town and all were place well. I literally have no negative thoughts other than I want more right now.

We need more fantasy books like this! I need them! I am very excited for the next book and what this series hold. In the meantime all go read her back list of books.

If you are in the mood for an old western with magic and werewolves, try this one!

[Megan Hupp · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading a western fantasy with a little romance and I enjoyed it. Knowing this is one of the author’s first dips into an adult audience, I think it was well represented. There is soooooo many different types of “creatures” in the story including werewolves, witches, vampires, “dustslingers”, insects, and endless other supernaturals that haven’t even been explored in book 1. The mystery of the town and surrounding areas that the reader gets revealed to is at the same time as the FMC and makes it a really cool dynamic. The romance portion of the book was a tad annoying to me just because of the MMC being adamant about not loving people but is clearly enamored with her. However, that glimpse of spice was great and I’m hoping that keeps going in the future LOL. Looking forward to what comes next after that little open ended cliffhanger.

[Chelsea Drumm · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is so atmospheric! I felt like I'd stepped into the Wild West while reading, and the mystery with a paranormal twist was so fun and unique. I found the sisterly bond between Bex and Nina to be so wholesome and loved their love for each other. I didn't really enjoy the relationship between Bex and Garrett as it felt superficial, with not much of an emotional connection between them. I think while we get some insight as to the mysteries of the town, there's still so much unknown and it didn't feel like there was necessarily a lot happening (plot wise) in this book. Overall, I think if you're looking for a short, easy read and enjoy Westerns (with a bit of the supernatural) you're going to want to pick this one up. Thanks Netgalley for the e-ARC!

[Gina Engman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great western fantasy book!

First things first--when is the next book? I can't wait to continue reading about Bex and her new life as a dustslinger. So many interesting characters in this book. I especially like her sister Nina who gives of total Elsa vibes. And the love interest Garrett!

The setting is perfectly described and I love the mysterious town. This series is going to be one I'll be waiting to read more of. Mysterious, fantasy, western motifs, all rolled into a fun read.

Full disclousure: I'm not ususally a spicy book reader so when I saw low spice I was imagining something more tame. But that's me. Just a heads up to folks who maybe interpret low spice a bit different. I will still be reading the next book(s?)!!

[Élyse Dumouchel · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a ARC reader

I didn’t think I would like it because I wasn’t sure about Graveyard Territory terms, but I fell in love with the story.

What start with something to deliver and end up in a big conflict with other groups keep me alert from the start to the end.

Each person has their own secret, but the heroine needs it to continue her journey and understand everything happening in Gravers Junction. The question is who would be willing to talk?

I cannot wait for the others chronicles to be written. In the waiting, I would, for sure, read again the adventures of Bex in Gravers Junction.

Thank you Kay Grymes to let me meet Bex and everyone from Gravers Junction

[Meg Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be honest, I haven't read too many western's but when the author reached out to ask me to read her new book I though why not? I'm so glad I did! While this is definitely a western, in my opinion, the fantasy portion is a bit more prominent. I really enjoyed all of the different creatures as they are slowly introduced into the story line. Bex is strong and fierce and I love the evolution of her personality as she comes into her own. Garret is a super swoon worthy MC and I love the mystery that surrounds him. I believe there will be many more books to come so don't be surprised if you find yourself wishing you knew more. It is overall pretty short, so be prepared for that and for being left wanting more! I will definitely be continuing the series and cannot wait for more.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of “weird westerns” and I loved the setting of this one.

Graver’s Junction is a town in the middle of the haunted Graveyard Prairie. It’s a town filled with supernaturals and Bex is told to go there by a woman dying in her arms and bequeathing her a strange new power. She and her sister find the town and discover that the world is much stranger and more dangerous than they thought. But then, so is Bex.

This is a very creative story with a fascinating cast of characters. I enjoyed Bex and her adopted sister Nina’s relationship and the slow burn-ish romantic relationship. The world is wonderful and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Marena · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you had fun with Charlaine Harris's Midnight Crossroads series as I did, this has a fun menagerie of characters, too. Gravers Junction has a secret to protect that many want.

Delivering a dead woman's message and learning about an unwanted gift the woman gave her, Bex and her sister Nina's lives will be changed forever.

Bex learns what it means to be a Dustslinger; a Dustslinger that's the gift the dead woman gave. Nina befriends a huge wolf. The sisters begin their new lives filled with danger and maybe some romance. This story contains werewolves, vampires, witches, bug people, and more. Fun start to a new and promising series.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

As soon as I heard “Western Fantasy”, I knew it was for me. This book was such a refreshing change from all the typical romantasy books out there right now. (not that I don’t love them every time, but it was so nice to step into a unique world I haven’t seen 100 times before.) The characters were likeable, the plot was interesting, I love the dustslinging powers. Very unique. The romance felt a little rushed, but it’s a short book so understandable. My only real complaint is that I wish it were longer, but I guess that just means I’ll have to read the next book!

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was super excited to get this ARC because a western fantasy intrigued me. This was definitely a fun read! The author crammed a lot of information and world building into a shorter book. Bex had me laughing with her wit and excitement. Nina resonated more with me as the underestimated one. I am definitely curious about the world and challenges the characters will face in future books.
The quickness of Bex's character growth was a bit unbelievable but explained. I can't wait to see what more Bex can do with her magic and definitely plan to try more of the series.

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bex is holding a dead woman who has given her an important message to deliver to Gravers Junction. Her sister insists on going with her. Delivering this message will change both of their lives.
A western story with lots of fantasy twists and a little spice. Join Bex and her sister, Nina, as they travel to Gravers Junction. Everyone there seems to be a little different and they all hold secrets. Will Bex learn the secrets and stay to help them? Only those who finish the book will learn the secrets and the answers.

[Lauren Penner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t seen many books that are western romantic fantasy, and I really enjoyed it. I loved the vibes, storyline, mystery, and magic, so basically everything about this book!

I was annoyed that I had to put the book down for adulting. The characters are so enigmatic. They definitely took over my headspace when I wasn’t reading. And the magic is so unique. Very different from what I’ve read before.

The slow burn captured my attention but didn’t take over the storyline. It’s lower spice but definitely not no spice 😏. I thought it was well-done and perfectly placed 🔥.

There are so many things I want to know. I NEED more answers.

Thank you much for the eARC! Can’t wait for the next book!

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a LOT going on in this story, like this is one of those books that you’re going to notice some new small detail every time you re-read it. It has a Wild West vibe, ghost towns, non-human beings, a time before electricity and some kind of turf war brewing. There are a lot of different personalities with the characters we are introduced to and just the smallest hint of a potential romance.

[Liz Delton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story from start to finish! I loved that it was a shorter novel, because the pacing was perfect! I can't wait for the next one!!
The worldbuilding was really unique, I loved the prairie/wild west vibe, and the dustslinging magic is really cool, and I can't wait to see more of it! Great start to the series, with lots of secrets and lore to be uncovered, and a particular romance that needs more screen time!

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book in a new series. The Chronicles of a Dustslinger is a mixed-genre series that combines romance, supernatural scifi, and found family set in a western background. The community of characters mixes perfectly to create a backstory that will carry the series forward. Kay Grimes has gifted readers with a unique start to what promises to be a great series.

[Phi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story had a very interesting premise, and was a quick read! I didn't love one aspect of it (no spoilers, but it's just a personal preference), and it did have more spice than I prefer (though it's only one scene that is pretty easy to skip over). All in all, this was a decent story, but it just wasn't quite my cup of tea.

[Martina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall this was an entertaining book.

The blurb did a great job of selling me on wanting to read this book.

- paranormal twist
- western fantasy
- slow burn
- strangers to lovers
- found family
- Wild West with mystery

3.5 stars

Thank you NetGalley & especially Kimberly Grymes for this ARC