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The Grim and The Grave
When her love is taken from her, Clover will do anything to get him back...
Half-fae and reviled by the town of Veritas for being so, Clover Grimaldi and her human mother work as servants to the cruel and ruthless Dr. Van Doren. Obeying Dr. Van Doren is the only thing keeping Clover and her mother safe. But Clover has a secret: her forbidden and reciprocated love for Grant, Dr. Van Doren's only son.
When Grant meets an untimely and suspicious death, Clover suspects murder, and she must risk everything to discover what truly happened. But with fae-murdering Justice Riders on the loose and an enemy in town who wants to cut her open and experiment on her, Clover must rely on old friends and new allies alike to get Grant back.
Half-fae and reviled by the town of Veritas for being so, Clover Grimaldi and her human mother work as servants to the cruel and ruthless Dr. Van Doren. Obeying Dr. Van Doren is the only thing keeping Clover and her mother safe. But Clover has a secret: her forbidden and reciprocated love for Grant, Dr. Van Doren's only son.
When Grant meets an untimely and suspicious death, Clover suspects murder, and she must risk everything to discover what truly happened. But with fae-murdering Justice Riders on the loose and an enemy in town who wants to cut her open and experiment on her, Clover must rely on old friends and new allies alike to get Grant back.
- GenresFantasy
Paperback
Published September 20, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 22, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. I’m giving it a high 4⭐️!
I was drawn to this beautiful cover and I could see everything clearly as it jumped off the page. It has Fae and human characters with a strong fear created by ignorance and prejudice.
It was a sci-fi, fantasy that had mystery and a clean romance. I love Clover and Grant and most of the side characters. If you love sci-fi fantasy with a romance then I highly recommend it.
Thanks Mailekai Creates LLC via NetGalley.
I was drawn to this beautiful cover and I could see everything clearly as it jumped off the page. It has Fae and human characters with a strong fear created by ignorance and prejudice.
It was a sci-fi, fantasy that had mystery and a clean romance. I love Clover and Grant and most of the side characters. If you love sci-fi fantasy with a romance then I highly recommend it.
Thanks Mailekai Creates LLC via NetGalley.
April 16, 2022
For some reason I got an error preventing to share on Goodreads when leaving a feedback on NetGalley? So I have to copypaste.
Got this as an arc from NetGalley - thank you!
Here's my spoilerless review.
TW: the main character gets punched and kicked a lot and she has to take care of a mother who is not mentally present.
If you're not especially sensitive to this kind of scenes, this book is rather fun and refreshing!
The Grim and the Grave is something between a fae story and a detective story. You might actually be able to put the clues together, once you know enough of the worldbuilding - which is rather classical, but still interesting. An unusual but appreciable detail is that Clover's fiancé is not the most important guy in the book, but can't say more without spoiling a few surprises.
It's fast paced and fun, definitely recommend.
Got this as an arc from NetGalley - thank you!
Here's my spoilerless review.
TW: the main character gets punched and kicked a lot and she has to take care of a mother who is not mentally present.
If you're not especially sensitive to this kind of scenes, this book is rather fun and refreshing!
The Grim and the Grave is something between a fae story and a detective story. You might actually be able to put the clues together, once you know enough of the worldbuilding - which is rather classical, but still interesting. An unusual but appreciable detail is that Clover's fiancé is not the most important guy in the book, but can't say more without spoiling a few surprises.
It's fast paced and fun, definitely recommend.
June 16, 2022
ARC provided by Netgalley.
I really wanted to like this more, the premise sounded really interesting but unfortunately I was overall a bit disappointed. The writing was a bit trivial and repetitive, and I find the author had a habit of telling us how the main character was feeling as opposed to describing it, making it harder to connect to her, as well as how passive she is for most. of the book, having to take the abuse she receives or relying on someone else to save her.
The main issue I have concerns the fae themselves, noted to be dark skinned and described as animalistic. I find it uncomfortable that, possibly unintentionally, the fae have been coded as people of colour, including our half-fae protagonist, who lives as a slave abused by the humans around her. Even some of her internal monologue can feel uncomfortable in light of this, a passage where she refers to herself as "the half-breed" being particularly jarring. This may not have been intentional, however given the only mention of skin tone comes when referring to the fae (a character who who illusioned themself to look human even notably changes from being pale to dark skinned upon breaking the illusion) and a town full of (white) humans abusing the (mixed) half fae takes on a much darker tone I think could have been handled better.
For positives, I did enjoy the plot when it progressed, particularly towards the end, and the surprise reveals were interesting, however I wish the mystery element had more to offer.
I really wanted to like this more, the premise sounded really interesting but unfortunately I was overall a bit disappointed. The writing was a bit trivial and repetitive, and I find the author had a habit of telling us how the main character was feeling as opposed to describing it, making it harder to connect to her, as well as how passive she is for most. of the book, having to take the abuse she receives or relying on someone else to save her.
The main issue I have concerns the fae themselves, noted to be dark skinned and described as animalistic. I find it uncomfortable that, possibly unintentionally, the fae have been coded as people of colour, including our half-fae protagonist, who lives as a slave abused by the humans around her. Even some of her internal monologue can feel uncomfortable in light of this, a passage where she refers to herself as "the half-breed" being particularly jarring. This may not have been intentional, however given the only mention of skin tone comes when referring to the fae (a character who who illusioned themself to look human even notably changes from being pale to dark skinned upon breaking the illusion) and a town full of (white) humans abusing the (mixed) half fae takes on a much darker tone I think could have been handled better.
For positives, I did enjoy the plot when it progressed, particularly towards the end, and the surprise reveals were interesting, however I wish the mystery element had more to offer.
March 22, 2022
Set in a human-dominated world, this book follows the journey of Clover, a fae, as she navigates an abusive household and a fae-hating town.
Her love, Grant, goes missing and it's up to Clover to find him. Together with a new friend and an old companion, Clover learns more about her powers and the fae-world.
This book was fast-paced and filled with interesting fae lore. There was quick moving romances and complicated relationships. I would've like to learn more about the characters as most of the book is spent on finding Grant, not character development.
An ARC kindly provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
Her love, Grant, goes missing and it's up to Clover to find him. Together with a new friend and an old companion, Clover learns more about her powers and the fae-world.
This book was fast-paced and filled with interesting fae lore. There was quick moving romances and complicated relationships. I would've like to learn more about the characters as most of the book is spent on finding Grant, not character development.
An ARC kindly provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
June 11, 2022
Big thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for a honest review!
TW: this book contains a lot of mistreating, punching, kicking and hurting other people so if you don't like to read about this kind of things - I don't think it's a book for you.
This book follows a half-fae Clover, who is looking for her fiance, Grant, who just went missing in a weird circumstances. She doesn't believe that he is dead and it was all just an accident, but it's hard to prove in a world where as a fae you everyone wants to kill you. The fact that a few more people from the village are going missing isn't helping.
But she is not alone - she has Soleil and Knox with her so maybe it will be a success and she could live her happy-ever-after with Grant...
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. It was fast-paced, really original with characters and a world building but I think that all I remember from this was looking for Grant and it didn't live space for some character development od just something about other people from this story - I would LOVE to get to know more about Knox, Soleil and even her parents. I feel like a big part of the story was missing and it was just too fast for me. But overall, it was a very interesting book and I would love to read a sequel! maybe then I will change my rating - now it is 3,75/5.
TW: this book contains a lot of mistreating, punching, kicking and hurting other people so if you don't like to read about this kind of things - I don't think it's a book for you.
This book follows a half-fae Clover, who is looking for her fiance, Grant, who just went missing in a weird circumstances. She doesn't believe that he is dead and it was all just an accident, but it's hard to prove in a world where as a fae you everyone wants to kill you. The fact that a few more people from the village are going missing isn't helping.
But she is not alone - she has Soleil and Knox with her so maybe it will be a success and she could live her happy-ever-after with Grant...
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. It was fast-paced, really original with characters and a world building but I think that all I remember from this was looking for Grant and it didn't live space for some character development od just something about other people from this story - I would LOVE to get to know more about Knox, Soleil and even her parents. I feel like a big part of the story was missing and it was just too fast for me. But overall, it was a very interesting book and I would love to read a sequel! maybe then I will change my rating - now it is 3,75/5.
June 19, 2022
I absolutely adore any stories with fae and therefore The Grim and the Grave by Sami Eastwood intrigued me.
The story is set in the human world and they hate fae. Our protagonist Clover is half-fae and tries to hide that and she and her mother work for Doctor Van Doren. The doctor is kind of the villain in this book and I didn’t like him at all. Clover is brave and seems like a good person, but sadly you only get to know her rather superficially.
Doctor Van Doren also has a son called Grant and he and Clover love each other in secret. You only get to see glimpses of their love and affection and that couldn’t really convince me of their relationship. But when something happens to Grant the story takes a more suspenseful turn and it was interesting to follow along the mystery and the plot was solid.
Overall, I liked the concept of a fae mystery story, but couldn’t really connect with it or the characters. 3 stars.
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for a review.)
The story is set in the human world and they hate fae. Our protagonist Clover is half-fae and tries to hide that and she and her mother work for Doctor Van Doren. The doctor is kind of the villain in this book and I didn’t like him at all. Clover is brave and seems like a good person, but sadly you only get to know her rather superficially.
Doctor Van Doren also has a son called Grant and he and Clover love each other in secret. You only get to see glimpses of their love and affection and that couldn’t really convince me of their relationship. But when something happens to Grant the story takes a more suspenseful turn and it was interesting to follow along the mystery and the plot was solid.
Overall, I liked the concept of a fae mystery story, but couldn’t really connect with it or the characters. 3 stars.
(ARC kindly provided in exchange for a review.)
September 20, 2022
The Grim and the Grave is a somewhat difficult book to read, due to the high content of physical and mental abuse and discrimination to which the protagonist, Clover, is subjected by the people of the town of Veritas and by her master, Dr. Van Doren, and all for the simple fact of being different: Clover is half fae, half human.
However, and without wishing to be cheesy, in the end good prevails. Clover is a strong young woman and despite the subhuman way she is treated, she finds love and friendship within the house of her tormentor, in Grant and Knox, and does not allow herself to be dragged into the darkness.
A story that offers hope and reminds us that despite the circumstances, we can and must be better people.
Highly recommended for readers with a strong personality and an adult mindset.
I thank the author, publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book, and declare that the opinion I have expressed above is based solely on what I think of this book.
However, and without wishing to be cheesy, in the end good prevails. Clover is a strong young woman and despite the subhuman way she is treated, she finds love and friendship within the house of her tormentor, in Grant and Knox, and does not allow herself to be dragged into the darkness.
A story that offers hope and reminds us that despite the circumstances, we can and must be better people.
Highly recommended for readers with a strong personality and an adult mindset.
I thank the author, publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book, and declare that the opinion I have expressed above is based solely on what I think of this book.
March 30, 2022
A unique book filled with magic, fae, and the most monstrous of all: humans.
I appreciated that this book turned the typical fantasy trope on its head: humans dominate the world and the fae widely live in fear. The forest came alive in Eastwood's writing: fae who cared for the wood and the wood that weeped for the fae. The forest became a living, breathing character in the story.
Unfortunately, the rest of the world, and most of its characters, didn't come to life in the same way. Veritas, and its inhabitants, felt one dimensional until about 60% of the way or more. I understand the humans live in fear of fae, but it felt superficial to paint every human as hateful, especially for a character who is supposed to be 20 years old and has had seemingly daily (if not weekly) interactions with people.
I loved the hinting at the Grey, and the religious/culture underpinnings of it, but I wish it had been explored a bit more. Instead, I felt like it had the same downfall of other aspects of the book: it was superficial and one dimensional with Clover denouncing it as different without any self-awareness of judging and condemning humans for the same things she's angry at them for condemning her for. She wasn't a character I could pull for until the last 20% of the book.
Overall, I also wish the first 60% had a stronger "why" attached to it. Clover's "quest" is driven by a feeling, but as a reader, I couldn't get behind the "feeling." Instead of an attached, dedicated lover, Clover felt listless and obsessed (to a fault).
It was a strong book, and one I'd probably read again. I think a sequel would be better as it's set up some stronger characters (namely, Knox, Angela, and Soleil).
~ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review~
I appreciated that this book turned the typical fantasy trope on its head: humans dominate the world and the fae widely live in fear. The forest came alive in Eastwood's writing: fae who cared for the wood and the wood that weeped for the fae. The forest became a living, breathing character in the story.
Unfortunately, the rest of the world, and most of its characters, didn't come to life in the same way. Veritas, and its inhabitants, felt one dimensional until about 60% of the way or more. I understand the humans live in fear of fae, but it felt superficial to paint every human as hateful, especially for a character who is supposed to be 20 years old and has had seemingly daily (if not weekly) interactions with people.
I loved the hinting at the Grey, and the religious/culture underpinnings of it, but I wish it had been explored a bit more. Instead, I felt like it had the same downfall of other aspects of the book: it was superficial and one dimensional with Clover denouncing it as different without any self-awareness of judging and condemning humans for the same things she's angry at them for condemning her for. She wasn't a character I could pull for until the last 20% of the book.
Overall, I also wish the first 60% had a stronger "why" attached to it. Clover's "quest" is driven by a feeling, but as a reader, I couldn't get behind the "feeling." Instead of an attached, dedicated lover, Clover felt listless and obsessed (to a fault).
It was a strong book, and one I'd probably read again. I think a sequel would be better as it's set up some stronger characters (namely, Knox, Angela, and Soleil).
~ARC provided by Netgalley for an honest review~
May 19, 2022
**Spoilers ahead** ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
I feel like the book had a lot of potential with the story. We're kind of thrown into a world where the fae are split into Light and Dark but are also seen as evil demons who are treated like second class citizens. The main character Clover was kind of one dimensional in some ways but it can be explained away by the fact that she was raised in a home being abused by a man who owns her life.
Throughout the story, i feel like there are a lot of different ideas that are started but never finished or fully fleshed out in a way that makes them feel really interesting. The characters, aside from Clover, have very little personality to them but if they had been given more depth I think they would have been a really lovable "Found Family" type group.
The romance felt like it came out of nowhere at first and then immediately became the most important plot point in the story. There was almost a battle between whether we were supposed to be holding out for Grant and Clover to be reunited or if the focus was going to shift to Clover taking charge of her own life and learning her powers. The latter would have been really intriguing but was started and never expanded on.
The ending was a really fun twist that I can honestly say i didn't see coming. I found myself really rooting for Clover to finally stand up for herself and take back the power that was stolen from her.
All in all i enjoyed the book but parts felt really clunky and the underdeveloped characters really did the plot no justice. I think i would read it again at some point now that I know the twist to see if i can find any hidden subtext that i may have missed on the initial read.
I feel like the book had a lot of potential with the story. We're kind of thrown into a world where the fae are split into Light and Dark but are also seen as evil demons who are treated like second class citizens. The main character Clover was kind of one dimensional in some ways but it can be explained away by the fact that she was raised in a home being abused by a man who owns her life.
Throughout the story, i feel like there are a lot of different ideas that are started but never finished or fully fleshed out in a way that makes them feel really interesting. The characters, aside from Clover, have very little personality to them but if they had been given more depth I think they would have been a really lovable "Found Family" type group.
The romance felt like it came out of nowhere at first and then immediately became the most important plot point in the story. There was almost a battle between whether we were supposed to be holding out for Grant and Clover to be reunited or if the focus was going to shift to Clover taking charge of her own life and learning her powers. The latter would have been really intriguing but was started and never expanded on.
The ending was a really fun twist that I can honestly say i didn't see coming. I found myself really rooting for Clover to finally stand up for herself and take back the power that was stolen from her.
All in all i enjoyed the book but parts felt really clunky and the underdeveloped characters really did the plot no justice. I think i would read it again at some point now that I know the twist to see if i can find any hidden subtext that i may have missed on the initial read.
September 20, 2022
THE GRIM AND THE GRAVE by Sami Eastwood
★★★★
Though this is a mid-September release, I can very well see The Grim and the Grave be a perfect spooky-ish read of sorts.
As per, I’m really glad I powered through when I wanted to DNF it after a while, the whole concept of an established relationship and the way Clover was treated (against every fae book I’ve read) just didn’t sit that well with me. I did change my mind, so much that I even gave the book four stars.
The Grim and the Grave tells the story of Clover Grimaldi, a half-fae girl enslaved by a doctor and loathed by everyone in the village of Veritas, and her quest to find her one true love, who everyone believes dead.
Now, in the first half of the story, I��d say the plot drags out a bit, hence why I wanted to stop reading, but since my mantra is to power through books because you never know what awaits you, that’s what I did and I was pleasantly surprised. There are several plot twists I didn’t see coming, something that I love most of the time.
Now, the characters aren’t extremely elaborated; perhaps Clover is the one you have more insight on. As I mentioned above, she was treated like an abomination and hit so many times I honestly thought why didn’t she fight back earlier. There is a bit of an explanation for this, however, it doesn’t fully satisfy me. I did like her endurance and her love for her mother, despite everything.
Another character I loved was Knox, who’s not Clover’s love interest. He’s the other character you get to know more than all the others, and one of the most interesting. I wish all the other characters had been better introduced, especially Grant.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this book, and it’s indeed perfect for an excellent cozy read for spooky season!
★★★★
Though this is a mid-September release, I can very well see The Grim and the Grave be a perfect spooky-ish read of sorts.
As per, I’m really glad I powered through when I wanted to DNF it after a while, the whole concept of an established relationship and the way Clover was treated (against every fae book I’ve read) just didn’t sit that well with me. I did change my mind, so much that I even gave the book four stars.
The Grim and the Grave tells the story of Clover Grimaldi, a half-fae girl enslaved by a doctor and loathed by everyone in the village of Veritas, and her quest to find her one true love, who everyone believes dead.
Now, in the first half of the story, I��d say the plot drags out a bit, hence why I wanted to stop reading, but since my mantra is to power through books because you never know what awaits you, that’s what I did and I was pleasantly surprised. There are several plot twists I didn’t see coming, something that I love most of the time.
Now, the characters aren’t extremely elaborated; perhaps Clover is the one you have more insight on. As I mentioned above, she was treated like an abomination and hit so many times I honestly thought why didn’t she fight back earlier. There is a bit of an explanation for this, however, it doesn’t fully satisfy me. I did like her endurance and her love for her mother, despite everything.
Another character I loved was Knox, who’s not Clover’s love interest. He’s the other character you get to know more than all the others, and one of the most interesting. I wish all the other characters had been better introduced, especially Grant.
Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this book, and it’s indeed perfect for an excellent cozy read for spooky season!
March 26, 2022
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The Grim and The Grave follows Clover, a half-fae half-human, as she tries to re-unite with her human lover Grant. Grant has disappeared and appears to Clover in ghost-like form, near death and needing her help.
Right off the bat, we're given a lot of information about Fae lore and how the townspeople hate everything to do with the Fae. "The simple folk of Veritas feared the fae who lives in the woods just outside their large black gates."
I did struggle a bit with being able to visualize the town and all the different places that Clover had to travel to (especially towards the end of the book). I think the book would have been greatly helped by a map like a lot of other fantasy books do.
Overall the characters were mildly developed and this is a good standalone, but don't go in expecting ACOTAR level fantasy or world building. Clover being Fae isn't what the story revolves around - rather its just a characteristic of who she is.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
The Grim and The Grave follows Clover, a half-fae half-human, as she tries to re-unite with her human lover Grant. Grant has disappeared and appears to Clover in ghost-like form, near death and needing her help.
Right off the bat, we're given a lot of information about Fae lore and how the townspeople hate everything to do with the Fae. "The simple folk of Veritas feared the fae who lives in the woods just outside their large black gates."
I did struggle a bit with being able to visualize the town and all the different places that Clover had to travel to (especially towards the end of the book). I think the book would have been greatly helped by a map like a lot of other fantasy books do.
Overall the characters were mildly developed and this is a good standalone, but don't go in expecting ACOTAR level fantasy or world building. Clover being Fae isn't what the story revolves around - rather its just a characteristic of who she is.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
April 3, 2022
Firstly I’d like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the e-arc 🥰🥰
When I first started The Grim and the Grave, it almost gave me kinda An Enchantment of Ravens vibes but it’s so much darker than that!! I really enjoyed the mix of a fae romance and the grim almost horror vibe that’s been mixed into the story 😏🥰
I love that the MC, Clover, is the fae in the book. Usually I find that in the fae romances I read the female lead is usually human but in The Grim and the Grave it was reversed and I found it super refreshing 🥰❤️ She’s an interesting character and, once she gets her bearings, she’s strong and very protective of those she loves.
The horror-ish vibe is almost ombréd into the book, it kinda creeps up on you and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book but I wish it was a lot more pronounced? Like almost more scary and gruesome than it is but I know that would take it away from being YA ❤️❤️ I did really enjoy it being a little darker than other YA fae romances. It’s a genre that I LOVE and this didn’t disappoint at all there.
All in all, I did really enjoy the book. If you like fae then this is a read you’ll really love!! 🥰🥰
When I first started The Grim and the Grave, it almost gave me kinda An Enchantment of Ravens vibes but it’s so much darker than that!! I really enjoyed the mix of a fae romance and the grim almost horror vibe that’s been mixed into the story 😏🥰
I love that the MC, Clover, is the fae in the book. Usually I find that in the fae romances I read the female lead is usually human but in The Grim and the Grave it was reversed and I found it super refreshing 🥰❤️ She’s an interesting character and, once she gets her bearings, she’s strong and very protective of those she loves.
The horror-ish vibe is almost ombréd into the book, it kinda creeps up on you and I really enjoyed that aspect of the book but I wish it was a lot more pronounced? Like almost more scary and gruesome than it is but I know that would take it away from being YA ❤️❤️ I did really enjoy it being a little darker than other YA fae romances. It’s a genre that I LOVE and this didn’t disappoint at all there.
All in all, I did really enjoy the book. If you like fae then this is a read you’ll really love!! 🥰🥰
July 13, 2022
Ratings 3 stars
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review.
Clover Grimaldi is a half-fae in a world that fears and despises the fae. Her entire life has been in service to the cruel Dr. Van Doren in order to keep her mother and herself safe. The only thing that keeps her going is Dr. Van Doren’s son Grant. They are in love and despite the fact that he will be outcast, Grant wants to marry Clover. Then one day while she is in town, Grant mysteriously falls to his death. But Clover doesn't believe that's what happened and will risk everything to discover the truth and get Grant back.
This read as a mystery book intertwined with fae lore. Although I did kinda guess what was going on early on, there was one twist I didn't see coming. The story was quick paced and it was an easy read. I was under the impression that this was a stand-alone but there was a story setup in the book that could easily set up a sequel. All in all I did enjoy the book as I do prefer HEA. Just a warning however, Clover does suffer physical abuse from the Doctor. So if that's not for you, you might wanna pass.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review.
Clover Grimaldi is a half-fae in a world that fears and despises the fae. Her entire life has been in service to the cruel Dr. Van Doren in order to keep her mother and herself safe. The only thing that keeps her going is Dr. Van Doren’s son Grant. They are in love and despite the fact that he will be outcast, Grant wants to marry Clover. Then one day while she is in town, Grant mysteriously falls to his death. But Clover doesn't believe that's what happened and will risk everything to discover the truth and get Grant back.
This read as a mystery book intertwined with fae lore. Although I did kinda guess what was going on early on, there was one twist I didn't see coming. The story was quick paced and it was an easy read. I was under the impression that this was a stand-alone but there was a story setup in the book that could easily set up a sequel. All in all I did enjoy the book as I do prefer HEA. Just a warning however, Clover does suffer physical abuse from the Doctor. So if that's not for you, you might wanna pass.
June 20, 2022
3 First, thank you to NetGalley and the publishers at Mailekai Creates LLC for the E-ARC of The Grim and The Grave by Sami Eastwood. The below is my honest opinion.
This is a unique cross between a fae fantasy and a mystery set in a human dominated world where the fae are despised.
Clover, a half-fae and her human mother, Torryn, work as servants to the cruel and ruthless Dr. Van Doren. Dr. Van Doren is an abusive man who regularly beats Clover, but obeying the doctor is the only thing keeping her and her mother safe. Clover and Grant, the doctor's only son, have a secret: they're in love. They cannot let the Dr. find out as their relationship is highly forbidden. Things begin to pick up when Grant mysteriously falls to his death. Clover suspects foul play and sets out to find the truth behind Grant's death.
Clover has to be careful about her sleuthing as there are enemies in town who want her dead and Justice Riders who are seeking the Fae who are suspects in the disappearing townspeople. Clover must put her trust in an old Fae friend and a new human boy to get Grant back.
Will Clover find Grant before its too late? What is Dr. Van Doren hiding? Will Torryn be saved? Will we get a happily ever after?
Please note triggers: the main character is physically abused and has to take care of her mother who is mentally unstable.
This is a unique cross between a fae fantasy and a mystery set in a human dominated world where the fae are despised.
Clover, a half-fae and her human mother, Torryn, work as servants to the cruel and ruthless Dr. Van Doren. Dr. Van Doren is an abusive man who regularly beats Clover, but obeying the doctor is the only thing keeping her and her mother safe. Clover and Grant, the doctor's only son, have a secret: they're in love. They cannot let the Dr. find out as their relationship is highly forbidden. Things begin to pick up when Grant mysteriously falls to his death. Clover suspects foul play and sets out to find the truth behind Grant's death.
Clover has to be careful about her sleuthing as there are enemies in town who want her dead and Justice Riders who are seeking the Fae who are suspects in the disappearing townspeople. Clover must put her trust in an old Fae friend and a new human boy to get Grant back.
Will Clover find Grant before its too late? What is Dr. Van Doren hiding? Will Torryn be saved? Will we get a happily ever after?
Please note triggers: the main character is physically abused and has to take care of her mother who is mentally unstable.
May 28, 2022
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for granting me an arc!
I loved this.
Clover is half-fae and living in servitude to Doctor Van Doren. Alongside her is her mother, Torryn, though her mind is all but gone. Van Doren treats them both poorly and on top of that, Clover has to face prejudice from the small village they live near as well as the villagers look down on Clover for being half-fae. The only reason she doesn't hate humanity is the doctor's son, Grant, who she loves and loves her in return.
Everything is perfect, the two hatch a plan to escape and marry, taking Clover's mother with them, but then the unthinkable happens and Grant dies. The doctor sends for his nephew, Knox, to replace Grant but Clover won't have it. She refuses to believe that Grant is dead and with the help of Knox and her fae friend, Soleil, she will prove it and bring back the boy she loves, even if it kills her.
I loved this.
Clover is half-fae and living in servitude to Doctor Van Doren. Alongside her is her mother, Torryn, though her mind is all but gone. Van Doren treats them both poorly and on top of that, Clover has to face prejudice from the small village they live near as well as the villagers look down on Clover for being half-fae. The only reason she doesn't hate humanity is the doctor's son, Grant, who she loves and loves her in return.
Everything is perfect, the two hatch a plan to escape and marry, taking Clover's mother with them, but then the unthinkable happens and Grant dies. The doctor sends for his nephew, Knox, to replace Grant but Clover won't have it. She refuses to believe that Grant is dead and with the help of Knox and her fae friend, Soleil, she will prove it and bring back the boy she loves, even if it kills her.
September 2, 2022
Not going to lie the title The Grim and The Grave got me requesting for review. That being said the story is very flat and the characters lack the background that will help readers understand why they act or react the way they do. The author descriptions are lacking to help readers see the world the author is trying to create. The author uses the first half of the book talking about the Fae lore and the conflict with the different races. The author could have incorporated the Fae lore into the mystery story instead of hitting you right away slowing down the story that might loss readers right away. There is some racism underline with the author way of describing the Fae as well as human.
For those who love Fae Lore this might be your story but for the paranormal readers you might want to skip The Grim and The Grave.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy of Sami Eastwood The Grim and The Grave.
For those who love Fae Lore this might be your story but for the paranormal readers you might want to skip The Grim and The Grave.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advance copy of Sami Eastwood The Grim and The Grave.
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April 24, 2022 slight trigger warning* the main character is mistreated and sometimes physically abused.
The Grim and The Grave follows a half human half fae, Clover, as she lives a in world where she isn't accepted by either the humans or the faes.
When Grant, her fiance mysteriously dies she calls foul play and decides to investigate, on her journey to find out what happened to Grant she learns more about herself and her powers.
The book is more based on the 'detective' magic than the romantic relationships. Her relationship with Grant isn't as wow and romantic as we would hope.
I only wished that the book focused a little more on the character growth and that there was a little more emotion from Clover because it felt more like a mission than her searching for the love of her life.
[This is an ARC provided by Netgalley ~ thank you!]
The Grim and The Grave follows a half human half fae, Clover, as she lives a in world where she isn't accepted by either the humans or the faes.
When Grant, her fiance mysteriously dies she calls foul play and decides to investigate, on her journey to find out what happened to Grant she learns more about herself and her powers.
The book is more based on the 'detective' magic than the romantic relationships. Her relationship with Grant isn't as wow and romantic as we would hope.
I only wished that the book focused a little more on the character growth and that there was a little more emotion from Clover because it felt more like a mission than her searching for the love of her life.
[This is an ARC provided by Netgalley ~ thank you!]
June 10, 2022
First, I want to thank Netgalley for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading it and finished it in one sitting.
The characters themselves did not have a huge amount of depth but they were entertaining and likeable. The story was interesting, very fast paced and kept me reading.
I will say that (spoilers) I like the fact that she stays with Grant. I was worried when Knox got there that it would end up being a love triangle kind of book and was very pleasantly surprised to find that it was not.
I also like that she had several good interactions with humans in the book. It shows promise for a decent future for all the characters.
I absolutely loved this book. I started reading it and finished it in one sitting.
The characters themselves did not have a huge amount of depth but they were entertaining and likeable. The story was interesting, very fast paced and kept me reading.
I will say that (spoilers) I like the fact that she stays with Grant. I was worried when Knox got there that it would end up being a love triangle kind of book and was very pleasantly surprised to find that it was not.
I also like that she had several good interactions with humans in the book. It shows promise for a decent future for all the characters.
May 16, 2022
I really loved this book. Clover was an appealing main character and I enjoyed following her quest. I thought the author did a great job of building the mystery and slowly revealing what was happening. She also made me care about the characters and want to see them succeed. There were a couple really minor spots in the book where I didn't quite believe a character's actions, but that's a very minor quibble, because in the grand scheme of things it didn't lessen my enjoyment of the story. I would definitely recommend this YA book for people who enjoy fantasy tales and books about the fae.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
July 10, 2022
Overall Rating: 5/10
This is only Eastwood's second novel, and it seems that she comes from a very small, family-run publishing company. This isn't a bad book, but there are definitely things I didn't like about it. I wish there was just more to the plot and that the characters got more development. Motivations fluctuated to fit the plot, and despite being the focus of the story, the relationship between Clover and Grant is woefully underdeveloped. It could do with some more rigorous editing as well. There weren't any misspellings or grammar mistakes, but there were parts that were just phrased weirdly. In all, this was an interesting concept with mediocre execution.
This is only Eastwood's second novel, and it seems that she comes from a very small, family-run publishing company. This isn't a bad book, but there are definitely things I didn't like about it. I wish there was just more to the plot and that the characters got more development. Motivations fluctuated to fit the plot, and despite being the focus of the story, the relationship between Clover and Grant is woefully underdeveloped. It could do with some more rigorous editing as well. There weren't any misspellings or grammar mistakes, but there were parts that were just phrased weirdly. In all, this was an interesting concept with mediocre execution.
April 15, 2022
I received this book early as an arc provided by netgalley for an honest review
Personally, I never got attached or even slightly interested in the romance between Grant and Clover. It wasn’t sad for me to read about what happened to him. Meh.
Don’t get me wrong I loved the story!
I just couldn’t find myself able to care about the romantic relationship between Clover and Grant. To me there was zero substance to their relationship. And yet the whole plot was based around a wild goose chase of that said relationship. It didn’t have any depth.
Romance = 3 stars
Plot = 4 stars
Personally, I never got attached or even slightly interested in the romance between Grant and Clover. It wasn’t sad for me to read about what happened to him. Meh.
Don’t get me wrong I loved the story!
I just couldn’t find myself able to care about the romantic relationship between Clover and Grant. To me there was zero substance to their relationship. And yet the whole plot was based around a wild goose chase of that said relationship. It didn’t have any depth.
Romance = 3 stars
Plot = 4 stars
June 20, 2022
I do like to read about the fae, the author incorporated both dark and light fae. I enjoyed how she wrote about them, it was intriguing and certain parts of the story hit you in the feels. I wonder if this was a one book story or if this is going to be a series. Clover , A half fae half human has fallen in love with her "employers" son Grant. Something happens to Grant, and the cousin comes into the story, named Warren but goes by the name Knox who happens to be a writer. I have received this ARC for a fair and honest review.
March 30, 2022
This book follows Clover a half Fae half Human living in a Fae hating city as she searches desperately for her missing human boyfriend Grant.
Grant goes missing and comes to Cover in a ghost like form injured and in trouble, needing her help to find him before it’s too late.
I found myself rooting for Clover and feeling bad for her circumstances.
This paranormal fantasy is enjoyable and well written. Thank you netgalley for this ARC read!
Grant goes missing and comes to Cover in a ghost like form injured and in trouble, needing her help to find him before it’s too late.
I found myself rooting for Clover and feeling bad for her circumstances.
This paranormal fantasy is enjoyable and well written. Thank you netgalley for this ARC read!
April 25, 2022
2.5/5
I did enjoy this book but I also found it an underwhelming read.
I liked both the storyline and the characters but I felt like neither were fleshed out enough to really make the story great. Both were kept fairly simplistic and because of this I felt somewhat disconnected to the story. I especially would have liked more world development and information on the strained human/fae relationships and the history behind it all!
I did enjoy this book but I also found it an underwhelming read.
I liked both the storyline and the characters but I felt like neither were fleshed out enough to really make the story great. Both were kept fairly simplistic and because of this I felt somewhat disconnected to the story. I especially would have liked more world development and information on the strained human/fae relationships and the history behind it all!
May 31, 2022
The mystery! The Fae lore! The FAE!! I love this book, its great! It a great read and a fantastic story! I just wish I was able to see more character development and connect more with the characters as they grew on this mystery journey through a wood that came alive! Overall I still really loved this book! Highly recommend to lovers of FAE and fantasy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Mailekai Creates LLC for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Mailekai Creates LLC for access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2022
Thank you for the arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was hooked from the beginning, but from 50% to 60% I kind of skimmed, I found it dragged a little, and a bit repetitive.
But at around 62% it picked right back up and held me to the end, and a what an ending, all in all I did enjoy reading this.
I was hooked from the beginning, but from 50% to 60% I kind of skimmed, I found it dragged a little, and a bit repetitive.
But at around 62% it picked right back up and held me to the end, and a what an ending, all in all I did enjoy reading this.
May 21, 2022
This dark fae story was enchanting! It was fast paced and filled with mystery. I would have enjoyed more romance in it but I overall enjoyed the entire story! I look forward to reading more by this author. Thank you Netgalley for my arc!
May 22, 2022
Unique combination of fae story and muder mystery where the humans are the villians.
Likeable characters, and interesting plot. But doesn't quite live up to its potential. Still an enjoyable read if you ignore the plot holes.
Likeable characters, and interesting plot. But doesn't quite live up to its potential. Still an enjoyable read if you ignore the plot holes.
May 8, 2022
This was so good. It made me feel for the heroine. And honestly, I hated the townspeople so much, because I felt for the heroine I wanted them all dead, and wanted them to all get their karma!
July 18, 2022
Great story. Wish there was more!
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