What do you think?
Rate this book
Secrets of Gravers Junction
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 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.
The one thing Bex understands is the message’s 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.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
About the author
Kay Grymes
1 book26 followersKay 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Read
March 10, 2026I 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:
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.
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:
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.
Read
May 10, 2026A 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.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 7.8.26.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 7.8.26.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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."
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."
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
March 7, 2026
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
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
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
March 13, 2026
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
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
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2026
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.
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.
March 19, 2026
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!
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!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
March 19, 2026
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!
March 22, 2026
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?)!!
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?)!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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
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
March 18, 2026
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.
March 3, 2026
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!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
March 11, 2026
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!
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!
March 18, 2026
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.
March 26, 2026
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!
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!
March 24, 2026
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This short novel by Kay Grimes kept my interest throughout the whole ride. I really enjoyed it and the unique aspects to the paranormal creatures. I loved the old west vibes. I'm looking forward to reading the next book!
Received advanced reader copy from author
Received advanced reader copy from author
March 20, 2026
I’m excited to see where this series goes! This was a good introduction into the series with good world building and character development. I like how this series is set up for future books (potentially with spin offs or other pov’s 🤞🏼)
Review of advance copy received from Author
It is a Great Read. I really enjoyed it.
April 12, 2026
The story took an unexpected twist and I can’t wait to read more!
May 2, 2026
Thrilling story. This was a Goodreads giveaway winner.
May 4, 2026
3.5⭐️
This book has such a cool concept! A western fantasy with paranormal elements is not something you see every day, and Secrets of Gravers Junction definitely nailed the vibe. The setting felt fresh and atmospheric, and the magic system was genuinely interesting. I kept wanting to learn more about how everything worked.
I really enjoyed the story overall, especially the sister dynamic. Bex and Nina’s relationship was easily one of the highlights for me. It felt real, supportive, and added a lot of heart to the book.
That said, it did feel like something was missing. The world and plot had so much potential, but everything stayed a bit surface-level. I wanted more depth, more development, and more time to really dig into the mysteries. And the ending felt super rushed. It wrapped up (or tried to) way too quickly compared to the slower build of the rest of the book.
Still, I had a good time with it and I’m curious to see where the series goes next. This felt very much like a setup book.
Thank you to Kay Grymes and NetGalley for the ARC.
This book has such a cool concept! A western fantasy with paranormal elements is not something you see every day, and Secrets of Gravers Junction definitely nailed the vibe. The setting felt fresh and atmospheric, and the magic system was genuinely interesting. I kept wanting to learn more about how everything worked.
I really enjoyed the story overall, especially the sister dynamic. Bex and Nina’s relationship was easily one of the highlights for me. It felt real, supportive, and added a lot of heart to the book.
That said, it did feel like something was missing. The world and plot had so much potential, but everything stayed a bit surface-level. I wanted more depth, more development, and more time to really dig into the mysteries. And the ending felt super rushed. It wrapped up (or tried to) way too quickly compared to the slower build of the rest of the book.
Still, I had a good time with it and I’m curious to see where the series goes next. This felt very much like a setup book.
Thank you to Kay Grymes and NetGalley for the ARC.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews