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Stay a Spell #6
Grim and Bear It
Not even Death can take her from him.
Clara Savoie is so confused. She is absolutely positive that Henry Blackwater is practically in love with her. But for some strange reason, he won’t even ask her on a single date. Time to take matters into her own hands.
When Clara shows up on his doorstep with an unusual invitation, tempting cupcakes, and naughty innuendo, Henry has no choice but to say yes. Now he’s the newest member of the High Tea Romance Book Club. While Clara learns the haunting secrets of her broody grim, Henry shows her what commitment from a necromancer truly means.
But when his father is arrested for murder, Henry is dragged back into the nightmare he’s been avoiding all his life. When he steps back into his father’s world, he isn’t just endangering himself but also the bright, beautiful woman he can no longer live without. But he just might have to.
Clara Savoie is so confused. She is absolutely positive that Henry Blackwater is practically in love with her. But for some strange reason, he won’t even ask her on a single date. Time to take matters into her own hands.
When Clara shows up on his doorstep with an unusual invitation, tempting cupcakes, and naughty innuendo, Henry has no choice but to say yes. Now he’s the newest member of the High Tea Romance Book Club. While Clara learns the haunting secrets of her broody grim, Henry shows her what commitment from a necromancer truly means.
But when his father is arrested for murder, Henry is dragged back into the nightmare he’s been avoiding all his life. When he steps back into his father’s world, he isn’t just endangering himself but also the bright, beautiful woman he can no longer live without. But he just might have to.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2023
757 people are currently reading
10565 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Cross
51 books4,675 followersFor upcoming news and releases, sign-up here: http://eepurl.com/XeKIn
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,223 reviews
December 20, 2023
Reread for 2023 Favorites. Listened to audio.
*******************
My heart is full.
This book is about running headlong, arms wide open towards love. It's brimming with joy and dripping in sweetness. There's no wishy-washing or tiptoeing around. It's a certain, soul deep assurance that you have found your other half. We jump in with both feet and a tray of cupcakes to get our man, or Grim in this case.
We all love Clara Savoie, she's kindness personified and everything good. In this book we get to see that in full force as she gives Henry his own kind of "times up" scenario. But unlike Jules and Ruben, this one begins with an invitation to a Historical Romance Book Club. Because OF COURSE IT DOES! And the beauty just continues from there.
If you're looking for an angsty "will they/won't they" romance, this one is not it. Clara is just not that sister and Henry doesn't have eyes for anyone else.
I really don't want to spoil a single thing about this book, if you've made it this far in the series, you're going to pick it up and you're probably going to love it. So I'm just going to gush some more about this beautiful family. I don't know of another fictional family that has ever brought me so much happiness. When I need a pick me up, I reach for Stay a Spell. I throw on one of the audio books or flip through my well-loved copies because I'm always smiling by the time I put it down.
This series is about family and all the GOOD things it can be. So many times in romances a family is a source of the drama or the stress but it's so beautiful to see all the best parts come through too. And all the aspects that make your life richer for having them. They are not only supportive of each other but they welcome in their community and look after those around them. When someone's in trouble, you don't even have to ask. Hands are reaching to help you. It's so special.
When we look all the way back to Wolf Gone Wild we see that. With Evie stepping up to help a lone wolf who has nowhere else to turn. And here at the end our Savoie family is literally bursting at the seams and they need their own zip code to contain it all.
It was just perfect, I was smiling the whole way through and I hope your heart is lifted after spending some time with Clara and Henry. Their love is bright and shiny and true. May we all find a love like theirs.
6 Stars
3 on the spice scale
*******************
My heart is full.
This book is about running headlong, arms wide open towards love. It's brimming with joy and dripping in sweetness. There's no wishy-washing or tiptoeing around. It's a certain, soul deep assurance that you have found your other half. We jump in with both feet and a tray of cupcakes to get our man, or Grim in this case.
We all love Clara Savoie, she's kindness personified and everything good. In this book we get to see that in full force as she gives Henry his own kind of "times up" scenario. But unlike Jules and Ruben, this one begins with an invitation to a Historical Romance Book Club. Because OF COURSE IT DOES! And the beauty just continues from there.
If you're looking for an angsty "will they/won't they" romance, this one is not it. Clara is just not that sister and Henry doesn't have eyes for anyone else.
I really don't want to spoil a single thing about this book, if you've made it this far in the series, you're going to pick it up and you're probably going to love it. So I'm just going to gush some more about this beautiful family. I don't know of another fictional family that has ever brought me so much happiness. When I need a pick me up, I reach for Stay a Spell. I throw on one of the audio books or flip through my well-loved copies because I'm always smiling by the time I put it down.
This series is about family and all the GOOD things it can be. So many times in romances a family is a source of the drama or the stress but it's so beautiful to see all the best parts come through too. And all the aspects that make your life richer for having them. They are not only supportive of each other but they welcome in their community and look after those around them. When someone's in trouble, you don't even have to ask. Hands are reaching to help you. It's so special.
When we look all the way back to Wolf Gone Wild we see that. With Evie stepping up to help a lone wolf who has nowhere else to turn. And here at the end our Savoie family is literally bursting at the seams and they need their own zip code to contain it all.
It was just perfect, I was smiling the whole way through and I hope your heart is lifted after spending some time with Clara and Henry. Their love is bright and shiny and true. May we all find a love like theirs.
6 Stars
3 on the spice scale
May 9, 2023
There's no other way to say this: this book is an utter, nonstop, absolute DELIGHT.
The tension building through so many books built up to this culmination of sweetness, swoon, and just....perfection!
I had a smile on my face through every page of this book. It's cozy, small town, found family, comfort, with just the exact right amount of steam and intrigue for the background plot. And even though there are some dark times in the book, the warmth of the happily ever after glows persistently.
Cora and Henry were meant to be, and every single interaction of theirs showed us this.
I swear I was kicking my feet and giggling and clutching my kindle to my chest and sighing for the entire read.
Very few romances accurately capture how it feels to fall in love. This one did.
I adored every single page and can't wait to be able to re read.
I received an ARC for review.
The tension building through so many books built up to this culmination of sweetness, swoon, and just....perfection!
I had a smile on my face through every page of this book. It's cozy, small town, found family, comfort, with just the exact right amount of steam and intrigue for the background plot. And even though there are some dark times in the book, the warmth of the happily ever after glows persistently.
Cora and Henry were meant to be, and every single interaction of theirs showed us this.
I swear I was kicking my feet and giggling and clutching my kindle to my chest and sighing for the entire read.
Very few romances accurately capture how it feels to fall in love. This one did.
I adored every single page and can't wait to be able to re read.
I received an ARC for review.
May 16, 2023
ITS RELEASED DAY BABY WOOHOOOO. Guess what i’m gonna be doing today after work😌
—————————————-
I need this couple’s story more than anything else. Clara and Henry are legit the couple i’m most excited about (I just love them together😩)
P.S. although all of these books can be read as standalones, I highly highly recommend reading this series before getting to this one. The buildup in the relationship between Clara and Henry through the last few books has been phenomenal and when I tell you IM DYING to read their book, I mean it.
Also, after reading Resting Witch Face, it seems that Clara has decided to be the one to initiate the relationship WHICH I JUST FREAKING LOVE SLBFKSHFIDNFKFJ 2023 CANT COME FAST ENOUGH
—————————————-
I need this couple’s story more than anything else. Clara and Henry are legit the couple i’m most excited about (I just love them together😩)
P.S. although all of these books can be read as standalones, I highly highly recommend reading this series before getting to this one. The buildup in the relationship between Clara and Henry through the last few books has been phenomenal and when I tell you IM DYING to read their book, I mean it.
Also, after reading Resting Witch Face, it seems that Clara has decided to be the one to initiate the relationship WHICH I JUST FREAKING LOVE SLBFKSHFIDNFKFJ 2023 CANT COME FAST ENOUGH
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 30, 2024
Grim and Bear It is the sixth and final book in the Stay a Spell series by Juliette Cross. I have loved these Savoie sisters from the start. And have loved watching them find their mates. There is one left...Clara. But she knows who she is supposed to be with and is pretty sure he knows it too! But he won’t make a move, he won’t ask her out. Clara is tired of waiting and has decided to take matters into her own hands!
Henry Blackwater is a Grim. He is Gareth’s cousin from book four. We have watched Henry stare longingly at Clara in previous books, wondering why he always keeps himself a little bit separated from everyone else. He knows Clara is it for him, his mate. But he doesn’t feel worthy. He feels damaged. He keeps his beast tightly locked away, which makes life difficult for him. He lives with his younger brother, Sean, whom he has pretty much raised by himself.
Clara Savoie is Violet’s twin and is the only sister left who hasn’t found love. Well, she has found it, he just won’t do anything about it. Clara’s gift is that she can see aura’s. She is pretty much walking sunshine. She will do anything for anyone. She is sweet and you would think innocent! But this girl shocked Henry! She has no issue talking about sex and letting him know what she wants! She has no inhibitions. Her whole family is pretty funny with the free way they talk about their sexual exploits!!
“She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
Clara finally breaks through Henry’s defenses and gets her man. But at the same time, Henry’s estranged father is arrested for murder and Henry is the only one who can prove his innocence. But to do so, he will have to unlock that door he has kept his beast behind and let him out!
This was a fun, sexy and also suspenseful ending to this series. I loved Henry and Clara together. They were perfect for each other. And the ending was so sweet. I adore this family. I saw some big news about what Juliette is planning next after this series and I can’t wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Henry Blackwater is a Grim. He is Gareth’s cousin from book four. We have watched Henry stare longingly at Clara in previous books, wondering why he always keeps himself a little bit separated from everyone else. He knows Clara is it for him, his mate. But he doesn’t feel worthy. He feels damaged. He keeps his beast tightly locked away, which makes life difficult for him. He lives with his younger brother, Sean, whom he has pretty much raised by himself.
Clara Savoie is Violet’s twin and is the only sister left who hasn’t found love. Well, she has found it, he just won’t do anything about it. Clara’s gift is that she can see aura’s. She is pretty much walking sunshine. She will do anything for anyone. She is sweet and you would think innocent! But this girl shocked Henry! She has no issue talking about sex and letting him know what she wants! She has no inhibitions. Her whole family is pretty funny with the free way they talk about their sexual exploits!!
“She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
Clara finally breaks through Henry’s defenses and gets her man. But at the same time, Henry’s estranged father is arrested for murder and Henry is the only one who can prove his innocence. But to do so, he will have to unlock that door he has kept his beast behind and let him out!
This was a fun, sexy and also suspenseful ending to this series. I loved Henry and Clara together. They were perfect for each other. And the ending was so sweet. I adore this family. I saw some big news about what Juliette is planning next after this series and I can’t wait.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
May 18, 2023
1.5 Stars (Mild Spoilers)
One of my most anticipated books becomes one of the most disappointing ones...🫠
They literally go from barely being able to have a conversation for a year, to being in love and constantly thinking about sex in days... Wheres the tension? The burn? The build up to an amazing relationship? Why was everything skipped just to go straight to sex and thinking about sex and talking about it? The only other thing they talked about was books which is one of my pet peeves. Which is when the author includes actual book titles, authors, and characters, (anything pop culture really) and she included them multiple times. I even loved the tropes too. A more forward and experienced heroine and a shyer/virgin hero. And what I thought would be grumpy/sunshine (but it really wasn't that at all). But how boring the book overshadowed the good. Should've known since I think I've like maybe 2 books in this series and it's been going downhill since the first book.
One of my most anticipated books becomes one of the most disappointing ones...🫠
They literally go from barely being able to have a conversation for a year, to being in love and constantly thinking about sex in days... Wheres the tension? The burn? The build up to an amazing relationship? Why was everything skipped just to go straight to sex and thinking about sex and talking about it? The only other thing they talked about was books which is one of my pet peeves. Which is when the author includes actual book titles, authors, and characters, (anything pop culture really) and she included them multiple times. I even loved the tropes too. A more forward and experienced heroine and a shyer/virgin hero. And what I thought would be grumpy/sunshine (but it really wasn't that at all). But how boring the book overshadowed the good. Should've known since I think I've like maybe 2 books in this series and it's been going downhill since the first book.
May 15, 2023
I was really looking forward to this one. What a bummer.
After a whole series of books teasing this relationship it somehow turned into an instant love situation. Almost nothing happens dialogue or plot wise between Clara and Henry but all of a sudden they are going on a date…no now their dating…actually now their introducing each other as boyfriend & girlfriend. There was no fun banter. Not a single ounce of wit or chemistry to be found. It all just felt very surface level and rushed.
Henry also goes from never accessing his magic to being some sort of necro-master who can shatter demons out of existence with a single word. No training needed apparently, so I guess all that trauma with his father could have been avoided.
Also, the entire plot was a huge stretch. Suddenly an aura can’t be used as proof when we saw that happen literally in the last book. Along with the possibility of having a GOA member be there when Henry opened the portal initially to find Beatrice. Apparently that was not an option this time around. The ultimate big bad was also super obvious from the moment he was introduced.
Also, the double wedding/baby fever that occurred at the end of this book was egregious, but at this point I was just fully over it.
After a whole series of books teasing this relationship it somehow turned into an instant love situation. Almost nothing happens dialogue or plot wise between Clara and Henry but all of a sudden they are going on a date…no now their dating…actually now their introducing each other as boyfriend & girlfriend. There was no fun banter. Not a single ounce of wit or chemistry to be found. It all just felt very surface level and rushed.
Henry also goes from never accessing his magic to being some sort of necro-master who can shatter demons out of existence with a single word. No training needed apparently, so I guess all that trauma with his father could have been avoided.
Also, the entire plot was a huge stretch. Suddenly an aura can’t be used as proof when we saw that happen literally in the last book. Along with the possibility of having a GOA member be there when Henry opened the portal initially to find Beatrice. Apparently that was not an option this time around. The ultimate big bad was also super obvious from the moment he was introduced.
Also, the double wedding/baby fever that occurred at the end of this book was egregious, but at this point I was just fully over it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2023
I’ve been looking forward to this for months and am disappointed to say it’s 2.5 stars for me.
Henry and Clara have been circling each other since the beginning and then in this book they have one conversation and are suddenly together and in love. I get the concept of mates but there was no push/pull at all. The entire rest of the plot was focused on Henry’s father so there wasn’t much room for the romance to evolve. They just kind of were.
I was so annoyed I skipped the epilogue. I know they’re together and happy, they were like that the whole book already.
Also *SPOILERS* maybe
but I don’t care about everyone’s babies
Henry and Clara have been circling each other since the beginning and then in this book they have one conversation and are suddenly together and in love. I get the concept of mates but there was no push/pull at all. The entire rest of the plot was focused on Henry’s father so there wasn’t much room for the romance to evolve. They just kind of were.
I was so annoyed I skipped the epilogue. I know they’re together and happy, they were like that the whole book already.
Also *SPOILERS* maybe
but I don’t care about everyone’s babies
December 17, 2023
4 ⭐️ What a fantastic way to end this series!
"She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ paranormal romance
✨ witch x grim reaper
✨ new orleans setting
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ he’s a quiet grim with an aversion to people and touch
✨ she’s a sweet witch on a mission to make the broody grim her boyfriend
✨ they give me Jasper and Alice vibes (from Twilight)
✨ damaged hero
✨ idiots to lovers
✨ soulmates
✨ virgin MMC
✨ 2.5/5 🌶️
✨ Spice: light bondage, praise, piercings, blind folds
✨ murder mystery plot
✨ found family
✨ lots of Savoie family cameos
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
✨ TW: child neglect, murder
My Thoughts:
I absolutely adored this story and never wanted it to end! Especially, because we got to see so much of the Savoie family!
Clara and Henry were everything I hoped for and so much more. They were perfect. I love how even though they are opposites in many ways, they complete one another.
Henry’s healing journey was so beautiful. I really related to him and the way he looks to Clara as his guiding light and the force in his life that makes everything better. Some people (myself included) carry a lot of trauma from our past that we fear will damage us permanently, but all it takes is unconditional love from one person to change everything. 💕
Clara didn’t really have a character arc but honestly, I don’t think it was needed. She was a strong character and I appreciate how devoted she was to Henry. She never wavered and that gave him the strength to accept all of himself instead of living in fear. The light she radiates into Henry, her family, and everyone she meets is beautiful. I wish there were more people like Clara in the world.
And it was hilarious how Clara is the one who finally took the initiative to get together with Henry. Clara may be all sunshine and rainbows but she's headstrong, carefree, and determined. I love this about her.
Their love story was very straightforward and so sweet. I seriously think this might be my comfort book of this series. I love the simplicity and easiness of the romance. They danced around each other in the previous books so by the time we got here, both were ready to just right in. I like that we didn’t waste any time messing around before they got together.
The murder mystery was a great side plot! There were definitely a few things I did not see coming. I legit gasped at one moment in particular. We really went out with a bang on this one. 😉
All the Savoie family cameos made my heart so happy! Since this is the last in the series, we are able to see what has been going on for the last year with the other couples which includes babies, engagements, and weddings. I’m so glad we got to see a glimpse of what the future holds for them all and I cannot wait for Juliette Cross to write the next generation spin off series!!!
Overall, this was a lovely story that made my heart burst with love but also had me fighting for my life near the end. I have a feeling I'll be in a reading slump for a while as I try to find another story that makes my heart soar like this series.
-
Stay A Spell Series + Ratings:
1. Wolf Gone Wild: 4 ⭐️
2. Don't Hex and Drive: 4.5 ⭐️
3. Witches Get Stitches: 2.5 ⭐️
3.5: Walking in a Witchy Wonderland: 4 ⭐️
4. Always Practice Safe Hex: 3.5⭐️
5. Resting Witch Face: 4 ⭐️
6. Grim and Bear It: 4 ⭐️
-
Favorite Quotes:
I laid eyes on her, knowing at long last I'd found my butterfly garden again.
_______
I wondered if she was in fact my hope and my guide. Because wherever she went, I helplessly followed.
_______
"Everyone needs a devil on their shoulder now and then. It's good to be bad sometimes."
_______
"You look like a creature from another world."
"A monster."
"Never." My voice was a hoarse whisper, my gaze falling to his lips then rising back to those eerie yet hypnotic eyes. "More like a dark king of the underworld."
"Perhaps a dark prince," I amended. "My own prince charming who came to my rescue.
"I am not Prince Charming. But if your Prince Charming ever did come, Clara, I'd have to fucking kill him.
_______
"Everyone deserves another soul who matches them, to walk beside them through this world, to be their best friend and true lover."
"Do you mean soulmates?"
"Yes."
Hesitantly, cautiously, he then asked, "Are you my soulmate, Clara?"
"Of course I am, silly. I've just been waiting for you to catch up and realize it."
_______
"You're going to be my first everything angle. And you'll be my last."
_______
She smiled in a way that made me want to conquer the world for her. Like Helen of Troy, she could launch a thousand ships with that smile, she could command me to do anything and I'd do it. Even leave her alone for a while if she needed a break from me already. I'd do anything for her.
_______
Being inside the woman I was profoundly, ardently, hopelessly in love with was like being handed the keys to heaven.
_______
"You're mine, Clara. Just like I'm yours. And I'm never letting you go."
_______
"Just because someone is an asshole doesn't mean they aren't deserving of kindness."
_______
If anyone could help me, it would be her. My Clara.
_______
There was no living without Clara - my true heart, my only love.
_______
"She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ paranormal romance
✨ witch x grim reaper
✨ new orleans setting
✨ grumpy x sunshine
✨ he’s a quiet grim with an aversion to people and touch
✨ she’s a sweet witch on a mission to make the broody grim her boyfriend
✨ they give me Jasper and Alice vibes (from Twilight)
✨ damaged hero
✨ idiots to lovers
✨ soulmates
✨ virgin MMC
✨ 2.5/5 🌶️
✨ Spice: light bondage, praise, piercings, blind folds
✨ murder mystery plot
✨ found family
✨ lots of Savoie family cameos
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
✨ TW: child neglect, murder
My Thoughts:
I absolutely adored this story and never wanted it to end! Especially, because we got to see so much of the Savoie family!
Clara and Henry were everything I hoped for and so much more. They were perfect. I love how even though they are opposites in many ways, they complete one another.
Henry’s healing journey was so beautiful. I really related to him and the way he looks to Clara as his guiding light and the force in his life that makes everything better. Some people (myself included) carry a lot of trauma from our past that we fear will damage us permanently, but all it takes is unconditional love from one person to change everything. 💕
Clara didn’t really have a character arc but honestly, I don’t think it was needed. She was a strong character and I appreciate how devoted she was to Henry. She never wavered and that gave him the strength to accept all of himself instead of living in fear. The light she radiates into Henry, her family, and everyone she meets is beautiful. I wish there were more people like Clara in the world.
And it was hilarious how Clara is the one who finally took the initiative to get together with Henry. Clara may be all sunshine and rainbows but she's headstrong, carefree, and determined. I love this about her.
Their love story was very straightforward and so sweet. I seriously think this might be my comfort book of this series. I love the simplicity and easiness of the romance. They danced around each other in the previous books so by the time we got here, both were ready to just right in. I like that we didn’t waste any time messing around before they got together.
The murder mystery was a great side plot! There were definitely a few things I did not see coming. I legit gasped at one moment in particular. We really went out with a bang on this one. 😉
All the Savoie family cameos made my heart so happy! Since this is the last in the series, we are able to see what has been going on for the last year with the other couples which includes babies, engagements, and weddings. I’m so glad we got to see a glimpse of what the future holds for them all and I cannot wait for Juliette Cross to write the next generation spin off series!!!
Overall, this was a lovely story that made my heart burst with love but also had me fighting for my life near the end. I have a feeling I'll be in a reading slump for a while as I try to find another story that makes my heart soar like this series.
-
Stay A Spell Series + Ratings:
1. Wolf Gone Wild: 4 ⭐️
2. Don't Hex and Drive: 4.5 ⭐️
3. Witches Get Stitches: 2.5 ⭐️
3.5: Walking in a Witchy Wonderland: 4 ⭐️
4. Always Practice Safe Hex: 3.5⭐️
5. Resting Witch Face: 4 ⭐️
6. Grim and Bear It: 4 ⭐️
-
Favorite Quotes:
I laid eyes on her, knowing at long last I'd found my butterfly garden again.
_______
I wondered if she was in fact my hope and my guide. Because wherever she went, I helplessly followed.
_______
"Everyone needs a devil on their shoulder now and then. It's good to be bad sometimes."
_______
"You look like a creature from another world."
"A monster."
"Never." My voice was a hoarse whisper, my gaze falling to his lips then rising back to those eerie yet hypnotic eyes. "More like a dark king of the underworld."
"Perhaps a dark prince," I amended. "My own prince charming who came to my rescue.
"I am not Prince Charming. But if your Prince Charming ever did come, Clara, I'd have to fucking kill him.
_______
"Everyone deserves another soul who matches them, to walk beside them through this world, to be their best friend and true lover."
"Do you mean soulmates?"
"Yes."
Hesitantly, cautiously, he then asked, "Are you my soulmate, Clara?"
"Of course I am, silly. I've just been waiting for you to catch up and realize it."
_______
"You're going to be my first everything angle. And you'll be my last."
_______
She smiled in a way that made me want to conquer the world for her. Like Helen of Troy, she could launch a thousand ships with that smile, she could command me to do anything and I'd do it. Even leave her alone for a while if she needed a break from me already. I'd do anything for her.
_______
Being inside the woman I was profoundly, ardently, hopelessly in love with was like being handed the keys to heaven.
_______
"You're mine, Clara. Just like I'm yours. And I'm never letting you go."
_______
"Just because someone is an asshole doesn't mean they aren't deserving of kindness."
_______
If anyone could help me, it would be her. My Clara.
_______
There was no living without Clara - my true heart, my only love.
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June 3, 2023
Thank you!!! Juliette Cross for sharing this fabulous series with us all !!! Grim and Bear It was icing on a very delicious cake made of simply fabulous characters that I won't soon forget! Before the Stay A Spell series I can named on one hand how many witch books I've read! Not since Anne Rice's The Mayfair Witches have I've been so invested in witch stories and when each Savoie sister stepped up to have her story told I was glued from start to finish and couldn't get enough. It was only fitting that the last savoie sister to get her happy ever after would be the sweet and kind and beautiful Clara!! She wears her heart on her sleeve and is everyone's favorite because of her generous big heart. She knew from day one that their was more to Henry Blackwater and little by little she got this quite and intense grim to step out of the shadows and live again. Henry keeps to himself but when the bubbly and beautiful youngest of the savioe sister is near he feels at peace and just the touch of her hand has him wanting things that he hasn't wanted in a long time. No matter how hard Henry fights the pull between them he ends up finding ways to be around this beautiful pink butterfly. Its been a up hill battle for Clara to break through Henry's hard shell but she wants this grim! She's done waiting for him! And so the seduction starts and Henry won't know what hit him! Because Clara has a delicious cupcake that he most certainly will want to lick!😂 I knew when I read the first book in this series Wolf Gone Wild that it would be one hell of a series!!! Juliette Cross is a phenomenal writer and she gets what women want to read!! And when she created this new paranormal world she added not only witches but vamps and werewolfs and sexy grim's!Each book has a great storyline and amazing characters and the sex is steamy and stellar!!!! She makes regular boyfriends seem boring! Give me a paranormal boyfriend anytime!
She was a little cryptic at the end in her author thoughts about if their would be more books down the road!! I sure as hell hope so because their kids are showing wonderful and beautiful could be spin offs!!!! I need to know more!
Until next time Luv's💕💋
She was a little cryptic at the end in her author thoughts about if their would be more books down the road!! I sure as hell hope so because their kids are showing wonderful and beautiful could be spin offs!!!! I need to know more!
Until next time Luv's💕💋
April 28, 2023
Grim and Bear It is the 6th book in the Stay a Spell series and the last of the Savoie sisters to get her book! I have been anticipating Clara and Henry’s book for quite some time and I just loved diving into their story. This is a paranormal, contemporary romance series set in New Orleans following witch sisters and their supernatural mates!
“For he was mine. I was sure of that. Whether he knew it or not.”
Clara and Henry’s book has been built up throughout the series and I was just giddy to finally see their romance play out! Clara is such a joy, so positive and happy, and decides she’s tired of waiting on Henry to make a move and marches over to his house with a plan to make him her boyfriend! She shows up armed with cupcakes and asks him to join her historical romance book club officially, since he already reads all the books and is her number 1 fan on her blog. While Clara is an aura witch, Henry is a grim and a necromancer, and he thinks he’s too moody and melancholy for sweet Clara’s presence. But boy, does she prove him wrong!
“She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
This two fall together quickly but I loved it so much! Like I mentioned, their romance has been built up in the series already so I was ready for them to get together right along with them! I loved how Henry slightly hates being around people and Clara is the exception. We get to see how strong these two are together and how they bring peace to one another’s lives. I love being with this family and the way they bring so many into their tight-knit circle. There were some especially lovely moments: the Atonement inspired library moment 🔥, her being all of his firsts, the soul-halo, the butterflies, their mutual love for romance books, his library. And then the ending was just so sweet to tie up all the Savoie sisters and their families!
“It’s always been you, Clara. Before I even knew you, the universe was preparing me for you. You soothe my soul in so many ways. You’re my one and only.”
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC. All thoughts in this review are my own. Grim and Bear It is out May 9, 2023!
“For he was mine. I was sure of that. Whether he knew it or not.”
Clara and Henry’s book has been built up throughout the series and I was just giddy to finally see their romance play out! Clara is such a joy, so positive and happy, and decides she’s tired of waiting on Henry to make a move and marches over to his house with a plan to make him her boyfriend! She shows up armed with cupcakes and asks him to join her historical romance book club officially, since he already reads all the books and is her number 1 fan on her blog. While Clara is an aura witch, Henry is a grim and a necromancer, and he thinks he’s too moody and melancholy for sweet Clara’s presence. But boy, does she prove him wrong!
“She was an angel born solely to torment me. And I was the demon who craved nothing more than to mark her with sin.”
This two fall together quickly but I loved it so much! Like I mentioned, their romance has been built up in the series already so I was ready for them to get together right along with them! I loved how Henry slightly hates being around people and Clara is the exception. We get to see how strong these two are together and how they bring peace to one another’s lives. I love being with this family and the way they bring so many into their tight-knit circle. There were some especially lovely moments: the Atonement inspired library moment 🔥, her being all of his firsts, the soul-halo, the butterflies, their mutual love for romance books, his library. And then the ending was just so sweet to tie up all the Savoie sisters and their families!
“It’s always been you, Clara. Before I even knew you, the universe was preparing me for you. You soothe my soul in so many ways. You’re my one and only.”
Thank you to the author for an e-ARC. All thoughts in this review are my own. Grim and Bear It is out May 9, 2023!
May 11, 2023
Thank Gods, it's over.
Insta love AND surprise baby? No, thank you.
Insta love AND surprise baby? No, thank you.
May 1, 2023
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
We finally made it to Clara and Henry's HEA and with a pink cover on top 💕 I love being in the Stay a Spell world. It brings me so much joy, peace, and comfort.
Clara knows that she and Henry belong together. She's been giving Henry hints throughout the series, but he remains clueless and aloof. She finally takes matters into her own hands and begins to pursue him in a more obvious manner. It's rare coming across romances where the heroine chases the hero, and I find this role reversal refreshing, especially when every single hero in this series so far has been the pursuer. Clara takes her job as the pursuer very seriously 😌
The romance here is low angst, light, and fluffy, with the high spice that we are accustomed to. There's even an Atonement inspired library scene that made me swoooon. Iykyk.
Henry's relationship with his father is simultaneously interesting and heartbreaking. Their strained relationship made me so sad, especially when we learn both sides of the story. I really like the mystery plotline involving Henry's father and how it pushes Henry out of his comfort zone, enabling him to finally face his demons and grow into his powers. Henry's powers are amazing. We definitely need more necromancers in paranormal romance.
The climax and denouement are well-written, bringing the entire Savoie family together at the end. I only wish there was an extra scene with Henry and his father after the entire ordeal.
Grim and Bear It closes out the Stay a Spell series, and it's emotional saying goodbye to the Savoie sisters and their hot AF men. But this book also opens some new doors for a potential new series down the road. And I, for one, hope we get more stories set in this world because it just brings me so much joy and comfort 🥰
P.S. Expect some baby fever in this one! 🍼
---------------
The cover's gonna be pink, I'm calling it 💖
We finally made it to Clara and Henry's HEA and with a pink cover on top 💕 I love being in the Stay a Spell world. It brings me so much joy, peace, and comfort.
Clara knows that she and Henry belong together. She's been giving Henry hints throughout the series, but he remains clueless and aloof. She finally takes matters into her own hands and begins to pursue him in a more obvious manner. It's rare coming across romances where the heroine chases the hero, and I find this role reversal refreshing, especially when every single hero in this series so far has been the pursuer. Clara takes her job as the pursuer very seriously 😌
The romance here is low angst, light, and fluffy, with the high spice that we are accustomed to. There's even an Atonement inspired library scene that made me swoooon. Iykyk.
Henry's relationship with his father is simultaneously interesting and heartbreaking. Their strained relationship made me so sad, especially when we learn both sides of the story. I really like the mystery plotline involving Henry's father and how it pushes Henry out of his comfort zone, enabling him to finally face his demons and grow into his powers. Henry's powers are amazing. We definitely need more necromancers in paranormal romance.
The climax and denouement are well-written, bringing the entire Savoie family together at the end. I only wish there was an extra scene with Henry and his father after the entire ordeal.
Grim and Bear It closes out the Stay a Spell series, and it's emotional saying goodbye to the Savoie sisters and their hot AF men. But this book also opens some new doors for a potential new series down the road. And I, for one, hope we get more stories set in this world because it just brings me so much joy and comfort 🥰
P.S. Expect some baby fever in this one! 🍼
---------------
The cover's gonna be pink, I'm calling it 💖
May 16, 2023
2.5 stars. HUGE let down. I was really looking forward to this one after this couple was teased for 5 books, but got a liiiiittle worried after Resting Witch Face. This book suffered the same massive issue: complete and total lack of tension. Oh, that big big issue that was stopping them from getting together for years and years? Forgotten at 10%, together at 20%. I really struggled with why I should keep reading or care.
Also, Henry is a virgin but a massive sex god? From "lots and lots of porn"???? I had such a huge cringe that I put my kindle down and walked away. -1 entire star for THAT whole thing.
Also, Henry is a virgin but a massive sex god? From "lots and lots of porn"???? I had such a huge cringe that I put my kindle down and walked away. -1 entire star for THAT whole thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2023
Update 5/31: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 since this is the last book in the series. I was so excited for these two but I feel like the plot had nothing to do with their relationship? And then
This series will always be a fun read for when I'm in a PNR mood. I'm curious to see what Ms. Cross writes next.
--------------
I've been waiting for these two since Clara approached the then-nameless-Grim across the street to ask him to Thanksgiving dinner in Bk 1.
Lets goooooo!
This series will always be a fun read for when I'm in a PNR mood. I'm curious to see what Ms. Cross writes next.
--------------
I've been waiting for these two since Clara approached the then-nameless-Grim across the street to ask him to Thanksgiving dinner in Bk 1.
Lets goooooo!
May 27, 2023
This is the perfect ending to a perfect series. The whole book has an epilogue vibe to it and we get cameos from the family and other friends they’ve picked up along the way. The trademark spicy spice is still present and well 😉
I’m going to miss these sisters, but this was a perfect send off.
I’m going to miss these sisters, but this was a perfect send off.
May 11, 2023
antes que nada quiero decir que si no leyeron los libros anteriores POR FAVOR no lean este, lo van a odiar si solo leen este (por lo menos yo lo haría)
yo quería que me gustara de verdad, pero fue medio meh, no se que paso en este libro la verdad tenia todo el potencial, dicho eso no fue malo, es un buen cierre de la saga y ame ver a todas las parejas (Y SUS HIJITOS AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH) fue super cute y romántico pero hubieron partes que también me parecieron medio cringe, las escenas de sexo... no me gustaron mucho que digamos.
En fin, esperaba mucho mas (mi estándar es el tercer libro, en mi opinión la autora tuvo su peak con ellos) pero aun así me gusto.
yo quería que me gustara de verdad, pero fue medio meh, no se que paso en este libro la verdad tenia todo el potencial, dicho eso no fue malo, es un buen cierre de la saga y ame ver a todas las parejas (Y SUS HIJITOS AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH) fue super cute y romántico pero hubieron partes que también me parecieron medio cringe, las escenas de sexo... no me gustaron mucho que digamos.
En fin, esperaba mucho mas (mi estándar es el tercer libro, en mi opinión la autora tuvo su peak con ellos) pero aun así me gusto.
June 14, 2024
I really truly enjoyed this book and this series! This got five stars from me because of these characters and how well wrapped up everything was. I LOVED Clara and Henry. I knew they had chemistry from afar but seeing it up close was HOT. Seeing how shy Henry was but then how not shy he was in the bedroom was eye opening in the best way. I loved how Clara brought him out of his shell and helped him face some of his figurative and literal demons. She could not be deterred to be there for him and help him see how good they could be together. I loved how caught off guard he was be her assertiveness but also how much he needed it to help guide him.
Clara is frustrated! She knows Henry likes her...or at least she thinks she knows. But he hasn't made a move even though she has given him space. So she decides to take matters into her own hands. She is going to show him what they could be and is not going to take no for an answer. They are having fun exploring each other and their relationship while Henry slowly opens up to her when his dad gets arrested for murder. Not only murder but murdering his fiance who Henry didn't know anything about. With Clara's help, Henry decides to go back to his old world and truly test his powers to help figure out what happened so that he can help his dad be free. Even though Clara can see where things are headed she is not afraid to make the literal leap of faith because she knows that Heny will save her no matter what.
Henry is terrified. He likes Clara and he thinks she likes him too but he is scared to put himself out there. So he hides. He interacts but from a safe distance. Until she makes it where he can't avoid her anymore or his feelings for her. He is caught off guard by how much she pushes him but in the absolute best way. He hasn't been able to experience a lot with women because of his powers. He is scared about how they could affect people but now that he is with Clara he isn't scared. And MAN is he hot in the bedroom. Let's just say he is a fast learner. He feels comfortable with where things are and excited about the future when he finds out his brother wants to get to know their dad more. And now their dad has been arrested for murder of his fiance who he didn't even know about. Through the course of the investigation and with Clara's help, he realizes he has been holding on to all of this hate for his father when he has changed so much. He decides to bring his powers fully out to figure out what happened. What he doesn't realize is whose attention he will catch and what will happen to Clara. But he does know one thing, he would burn the world for her!
I can't recommend this series enough! The characters. Their powers. The relationships. The history and world were just so fun and cool. I would LOVE LOVE to see more of Henry's little brother. It seemed like there was potential for a story am I wrong?? I am looking forward to reading more by Juliette.
Clara is frustrated! She knows Henry likes her...or at least she thinks she knows. But he hasn't made a move even though she has given him space. So she decides to take matters into her own hands. She is going to show him what they could be and is not going to take no for an answer. They are having fun exploring each other and their relationship while Henry slowly opens up to her when his dad gets arrested for murder. Not only murder but murdering his fiance who Henry didn't know anything about. With Clara's help, Henry decides to go back to his old world and truly test his powers to help figure out what happened so that he can help his dad be free. Even though Clara can see where things are headed she is not afraid to make the literal leap of faith because she knows that Heny will save her no matter what.
Henry is terrified. He likes Clara and he thinks she likes him too but he is scared to put himself out there. So he hides. He interacts but from a safe distance. Until she makes it where he can't avoid her anymore or his feelings for her. He is caught off guard by how much she pushes him but in the absolute best way. He hasn't been able to experience a lot with women because of his powers. He is scared about how they could affect people but now that he is with Clara he isn't scared. And MAN is he hot in the bedroom. Let's just say he is a fast learner. He feels comfortable with where things are and excited about the future when he finds out his brother wants to get to know their dad more. And now their dad has been arrested for murder of his fiance who he didn't even know about. Through the course of the investigation and with Clara's help, he realizes he has been holding on to all of this hate for his father when he has changed so much. He decides to bring his powers fully out to figure out what happened. What he doesn't realize is whose attention he will catch and what will happen to Clara. But he does know one thing, he would burn the world for her!
I can't recommend this series enough! The characters. Their powers. The relationships. The history and world were just so fun and cool. I would LOVE LOVE to see more of Henry's little brother. It seemed like there was potential for a story am I wrong?? I am looking forward to reading more by Juliette.
June 12, 2023
After spending an entire book series tentatively dancing around their feelings for one another (and watching their extended circle of family and friends find love in one another’s arms) perky extroverted Aura witch Clara and broody, introverted necromancer Grim Henry are finally ready for a chance at THEIR Happily Ever After!
Clara’s “plan of seduction” for Henry begins innocently enough, when she shows up at his home with freshly baked cupcakes and an invitation to join her book club, which specializes mainly in reading / discussing historical romances. (Henry has already proven himself to be a fan of this genre, having become Clara’s most avid fan and commenter on her romance novel-themed blog.)
As a virgin hero, Henry has heretofore shied away from any type of romantic relationship, due to residual anxieties brought on by a traumatic childhood experience, which caused him to cut ties with his father at a young age and stifle his necromancy abilities entirely.
But when Clara needs Henry to contact someone recently departed, and his estranged father is accused of a murder he claims that he didn’t commit, Henry finds that he has to open both his heart and his soul to experiences and worlds he thought had been closed off to him forever.
Grim and Bear it is a solid and enjoyable conclusion to the Stay a Spell Series, one that is probably best enjoyed after reading its predecessors. Where some romance novels in series can be read as stand-alones, this novel requires some prior knowledge of both the world the Savoire sisters inhabit, and the slow build of Clara’s and Henry’s relationship. Without the prior novels, Clara’s and Henry’s almost immediate declarations of love, talk of “forever” and consistent use of the word “soulmate” early on in the novel, would probably seem a bit rushed and insta-love-y. However, when read in context of the prior novels in the series, and with the understanding of this supernatural world (in which “soulmate-hood” is a thing that, not only exists, but is magically immediately apparent to both parties once it is achieved), this abrupt coupling seems like more of an appropriately foregone conclusion.
There’s a genuinely sweet wholesomeness to Grim and Bear It, perhaps, more so than exists in any other novel in the series. Clara is almost childlike in her ebullient optimism and immense confidence in the success of this romantic union. Her temperament complements that of Henry, who I wouldn’t necessarily classify as a “grump” like is suggested in the novel’s subtitle. He’s just more reserved, guarded, broody, and tentative in his interactions with others, largely due to his past. I empathized a lot with Henry as a character, and appreciated the way in which Clara unquestioningly accepted him for exactly who he was, and gently encouraged him to open himself up to new experiences, while never trying to change who he was at his core.
The magic in this particular book has an ethereal quality to it that heightens the overall sweetness of this romance. (At one point in the novel, Clara literally glows after a particularly spicy encounter with Henry!) I also enjoyed that Clara and Henry were both romance book nerds. You could tell that Cross is one as well, and that she had a blast liberally sprinkling this novel with constant nods and references to her favorite historical romances and characters.
There is no third-act breakup in Grim and Bear It. Once Clara and Henry are together, it’s absolutely for keeps, which was refreshing. The main conflict of this book sits mainly on Henry’s shoulders and is largely internal. Throughout the novel, we watch Henry gradually come to (1) accept himself and his ability to be a good partner to someone else; (2) understand and embrace his true nature and powers; and (3) finally grapple with his long-unresolved relationship with his father.
Speaking of Henry’s father, the “mystery” of Grim and Bear It surrounding his alleged crime isn’t much of one at all. Its answer is immediately apparent to any reader. And it’s all resolved rather quickly, with most of the main action relating to it occurring off-page. But I didn’t mind that too much, since the purpose of this aspect of the story was more about its impact on Henry’s emotional and intellectual journey, than anything else.
Personally, I probably could have done without the last couple chapters of the novel shifting entirely to every character being pregnant at the same time and having WAY TOO MANY BABIES. But I do understand that this was included as a way to close out the stories of ALL the characters in this series, and further cement their shared Happily Ever After, as an extended happy family.
In sum, I think if you are a fan of supernatural romance, in general, and the Stay a Spell series, specifically, you will likely enjoy Grim and Bear it. It’s a sweet, wholesome, magical, good time; one that features minimal angst, lots of love for the genre, and a heaping helping of all the characters you’ve come to know and love throughout the series, as they ride off into their collective sunset together . . . along with their somewhat scary (to me, at least) army of supernatural babies.
Clara’s “plan of seduction” for Henry begins innocently enough, when she shows up at his home with freshly baked cupcakes and an invitation to join her book club, which specializes mainly in reading / discussing historical romances. (Henry has already proven himself to be a fan of this genre, having become Clara’s most avid fan and commenter on her romance novel-themed blog.)
As a virgin hero, Henry has heretofore shied away from any type of romantic relationship, due to residual anxieties brought on by a traumatic childhood experience, which caused him to cut ties with his father at a young age and stifle his necromancy abilities entirely.
But when Clara needs Henry to contact someone recently departed, and his estranged father is accused of a murder he claims that he didn’t commit, Henry finds that he has to open both his heart and his soul to experiences and worlds he thought had been closed off to him forever.
Grim and Bear it is a solid and enjoyable conclusion to the Stay a Spell Series, one that is probably best enjoyed after reading its predecessors. Where some romance novels in series can be read as stand-alones, this novel requires some prior knowledge of both the world the Savoire sisters inhabit, and the slow build of Clara’s and Henry’s relationship. Without the prior novels, Clara’s and Henry’s almost immediate declarations of love, talk of “forever” and consistent use of the word “soulmate” early on in the novel, would probably seem a bit rushed and insta-love-y. However, when read in context of the prior novels in the series, and with the understanding of this supernatural world (in which “soulmate-hood” is a thing that, not only exists, but is magically immediately apparent to both parties once it is achieved), this abrupt coupling seems like more of an appropriately foregone conclusion.
There’s a genuinely sweet wholesomeness to Grim and Bear It, perhaps, more so than exists in any other novel in the series. Clara is almost childlike in her ebullient optimism and immense confidence in the success of this romantic union. Her temperament complements that of Henry, who I wouldn’t necessarily classify as a “grump” like is suggested in the novel’s subtitle. He’s just more reserved, guarded, broody, and tentative in his interactions with others, largely due to his past. I empathized a lot with Henry as a character, and appreciated the way in which Clara unquestioningly accepted him for exactly who he was, and gently encouraged him to open himself up to new experiences, while never trying to change who he was at his core.
The magic in this particular book has an ethereal quality to it that heightens the overall sweetness of this romance. (At one point in the novel, Clara literally glows after a particularly spicy encounter with Henry!) I also enjoyed that Clara and Henry were both romance book nerds. You could tell that Cross is one as well, and that she had a blast liberally sprinkling this novel with constant nods and references to her favorite historical romances and characters.
There is no third-act breakup in Grim and Bear It. Once Clara and Henry are together, it’s absolutely for keeps, which was refreshing. The main conflict of this book sits mainly on Henry’s shoulders and is largely internal. Throughout the novel, we watch Henry gradually come to (1) accept himself and his ability to be a good partner to someone else; (2) understand and embrace his true nature and powers; and (3) finally grapple with his long-unresolved relationship with his father.
Speaking of Henry’s father, the “mystery” of Grim and Bear It surrounding his alleged crime isn’t much of one at all. Its answer is immediately apparent to any reader. And it’s all resolved rather quickly, with most of the main action relating to it occurring off-page. But I didn’t mind that too much, since the purpose of this aspect of the story was more about its impact on Henry’s emotional and intellectual journey, than anything else.
Personally, I probably could have done without the last couple chapters of the novel shifting entirely to every character being pregnant at the same time and having WAY TOO MANY BABIES. But I do understand that this was included as a way to close out the stories of ALL the characters in this series, and further cement their shared Happily Ever After, as an extended happy family.
In sum, I think if you are a fan of supernatural romance, in general, and the Stay a Spell series, specifically, you will likely enjoy Grim and Bear it. It’s a sweet, wholesome, magical, good time; one that features minimal angst, lots of love for the genre, and a heaping helping of all the characters you’ve come to know and love throughout the series, as they ride off into their collective sunset together . . . along with their somewhat scary (to me, at least) army of supernatural babies.
May 15, 2023
EDIT: after waffling back and fourth on how I felt about it, I think it’s important to mention something that happens toward the end of the book given that there’s no spoiler for it. So…SPOILER AND CW AT THE END.
I pains me that I didn’t love this book, but it was just….meh for me. I really felt like a 2.5 rating but I rounded up because the epilogue was very sweet and I loved this big, supernatural family. But there were several things that just weren’t enjoyable for me.
It’s probably because there’s been SO much build up for Clara and Henry. I don’t think my expectations would have been met, but I’d hoped it would be a 5 star conclusion. Unfortunately all of the great parts of Clara and Henry happen in every other Stay a Spell book. The pining, the brooding, the romance book club, Clara deciding to go after her man. It all just fell away in the first 15% of the book. They get together super quick, with no build-up like the teasers and then spend the last 75% of the book trying to solve the suspense plot line. Which….I didn’t care about and could have done completely without. It came out of nowhere, only had a couple scenes where it’s talked about/investigated and then is resolved in a handful of pages right at the end. I just didn’t love it or how rushed and underdeveloped it felt.
Clara and Henry read like a couple that’s been together for 20 years. They’re lovey-dovey and it’s sweet and I DID like seeing them happy and being besotted, but I really do think they needed SOME kind of push/pull after the mentions of Henry not being good enough and Clara going to “fight for her man” that was teased for 5 other books.
Also, the romance book club was my favorite aspect of their relationship and it falls away SO FAST. I loved it!!! I wanted so much more of it! The nods to some of my favorite HisRom’s was delightful.
It was just….meh. I found myself wanting to put it down and not pick it back up. I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it. And I was honestly kind of bored reading it. Not how I thought I’d feel about the conclusion to one of my favorite series, but this needed something that we just weren’t given. Some tension, some push/pull a slower burn, (less of Henry’s trauma being invalidated by Clara and everyone else who’s supposed to love him because his father is a “changed man” which we’re never shown on page). SOMETHING.
************SPOILER SPOILER SPOILEr************
I did love the epilogue with all of their kiddos named after their favorite HisRom heroes. It was very sweet to see a Sebastian and a Rhys and a Broderick in there. 🥹
I straight up did not care one iota about Henry’s dad or his plot line.
CONTENT WARNING:
There is a public shooting in a market that takes place at the end which results in Clara being shot and shows mass panic as people run to get away. In light of the most recent mass shootings in the US, it was really jarring and I really think it needed a content warning at the start of the book.
I pains me that I didn’t love this book, but it was just….meh for me. I really felt like a 2.5 rating but I rounded up because the epilogue was very sweet and I loved this big, supernatural family. But there were several things that just weren’t enjoyable for me.
It’s probably because there’s been SO much build up for Clara and Henry. I don’t think my expectations would have been met, but I’d hoped it would be a 5 star conclusion. Unfortunately all of the great parts of Clara and Henry happen in every other Stay a Spell book. The pining, the brooding, the romance book club, Clara deciding to go after her man. It all just fell away in the first 15% of the book. They get together super quick, with no build-up like the teasers and then spend the last 75% of the book trying to solve the suspense plot line. Which….I didn’t care about and could have done completely without. It came out of nowhere, only had a couple scenes where it’s talked about/investigated and then is resolved in a handful of pages right at the end. I just didn’t love it or how rushed and underdeveloped it felt.
Clara and Henry read like a couple that’s been together for 20 years. They’re lovey-dovey and it’s sweet and I DID like seeing them happy and being besotted, but I really do think they needed SOME kind of push/pull after the mentions of Henry not being good enough and Clara going to “fight for her man” that was teased for 5 other books.
Also, the romance book club was my favorite aspect of their relationship and it falls away SO FAST. I loved it!!! I wanted so much more of it! The nods to some of my favorite HisRom’s was delightful.
It was just….meh. I found myself wanting to put it down and not pick it back up. I didn’t hate it, I didn’t love it. And I was honestly kind of bored reading it. Not how I thought I’d feel about the conclusion to one of my favorite series, but this needed something that we just weren’t given. Some tension, some push/pull a slower burn, (less of Henry’s trauma being invalidated by Clara and everyone else who’s supposed to love him because his father is a “changed man” which we’re never shown on page). SOMETHING.
************SPOILER SPOILER SPOILEr************
I did love the epilogue with all of their kiddos named after their favorite HisRom heroes. It was very sweet to see a Sebastian and a Rhys and a Broderick in there. 🥹
I straight up did not care one iota about Henry’s dad or his plot line.
CONTENT WARNING:
There is a public shooting in a market that takes place at the end which results in Clara being shot and shows mass panic as people run to get away. In light of the most recent mass shootings in the US, it was really jarring and I really think it needed a content warning at the start of the book.
May 10, 2023
Less plot based then the previous ones, no grovelling, just two in love love birds.
A very low-angst sexy book!
I was anticipating this book a lot and I feel like maybe that might have been an issue? I wanted more. Like Clara and Henry were together pretty much since the beginning. There were really no stakes that they wouldn't be. I don't know. Still enjoyed it, and read it in about 24h!
A very low-angst sexy book!
I was anticipating this book a lot and I feel like maybe that might have been an issue? I wanted more. Like Clara and Henry were together pretty much since the beginning. There were really no stakes that they wouldn't be. I don't know. Still enjoyed it, and read it in about 24h!
September 14, 2023
Started off good and promising but it was very soon clear that it was going downhill.
I'd say MCs were very much out of their character from what we've seen in previous books. It all turned into insta love, which fine...for fated mates it isn't such a strange thing, but it lacked the build up. Something to keep me on my toes. They were just simply together and it all turned into sex and sappy love declarations.
Lacking in the dialogue section, which really drives me insane because I can't with the inner monologues that are pages long, at all.
And to be honest it became boring. The romance part put in the back seat to solve some murder mystery.
Adding to that overly saccharine scenes toward the end, it might have made me puke into my mouth a little bit. Don't even get me started on the "surprise" element and how she handles her pill.
Overall...very meh and disappointing.
I'd say MCs were very much out of their character from what we've seen in previous books. It all turned into insta love, which fine...for fated mates it isn't such a strange thing, but it lacked the build up. Something to keep me on my toes. They were just simply together and it all turned into sex and sappy love declarations.
Lacking in the dialogue section, which really drives me insane because I can't with the inner monologues that are pages long, at all.
And to be honest it became boring. The romance part put in the back seat to solve some murder mystery.
Adding to that overly saccharine scenes toward the end, it might have made me puke into my mouth a little bit. Don't even get me started on the "surprise" element and how she handles her pill.
Overall...very meh and disappointing.
May 20, 2023
Don’t judge a book by its cover, and don’t judge a Grimm by his outward appearance. Henry is officially one of the absolute sweetest men in The Stay a Spell series. From the opening prologue until the very end his beauty is felt and seen and has left me oddly emotional. There’s artistry in the fact that Henry and Clara are the chosen bookend of this lovely series. You're left with a tranquil feeling of love, peace, and family, which juxtaposes all outward appearances of who Henry is.
Beautiful little pockets of insights are given by each of the Savoir sisters that feel like a love letter. Juliette Cross has created a series that is now and forever, a staple in the paranormal romance genre. It’s a must-read for new fans and a comfort for old. I can’t sing her praises enough. Releasing May 9th do yourself a favor if you haven’t already, and lose yourself in the Stay A Spell series.
~Tanja
Releases May 9th - https://amzn.to/442zJGr
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Beautiful little pockets of insights are given by each of the Savoir sisters that feel like a love letter. Juliette Cross has created a series that is now and forever, a staple in the paranormal romance genre. It’s a must-read for new fans and a comfort for old. I can’t sing her praises enough. Releasing May 9th do yourself a favor if you haven’t already, and lose yourself in the Stay A Spell series.
~Tanja
Releases May 9th - https://amzn.to/442zJGr
Follow me on
✿KTBookReviews✿Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿TikTok
May 11, 2023
EDIT 11th May: Sigh... I've looked forward to reading this ever since this possible couple was introduced but I'm very underwhelmed right now. The build up to their relationship has been happening for some time now so I was expecting them to get together quick but neither Henry nor Clara left an impact on me.
Bring in the "I smiled, again having to beat back the well of emotions. What was wrong with me these days?", I was on high alert. Another thing that irked me was 'Chai Tea' (yes, seriously). To top it all of the climax scene at 90%??????? Hello, please stop giving me anxiety.
Hm, I would say this was a good wrap to the series. I really want to see Sean's story tho :)
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"That’s true. And since I plan to eventually kiss Henry Blackwater, quite often, I want to be sure the experience will give us both pleasure."
We're finally gonna meet HENRY and CLARA! I swear to god, this future couple has been my highlight in all the previous books. All Clara and Henry interactions have their own special place in my mind.
Give me that grumpy x sunshine, obsessed ML and as per my observation from the previous books, an equally obsessed FL whose been plotting to kiss the ML for some time now!
Bring in the "I smiled, again having to beat back the well of emotions. What was wrong with me these days?", I was on high alert. Another thing that irked me was 'Chai Tea' (yes, seriously). To top it all of the climax scene at 90%??????? Hello, please stop giving me anxiety.
Hm, I would say this was a good wrap to the series. I really want to see Sean's story tho :)
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"That’s true. And since I plan to eventually kiss Henry Blackwater, quite often, I want to be sure the experience will give us both pleasure."
We're finally gonna meet HENRY and CLARA! I swear to god, this future couple has been my highlight in all the previous books. All Clara and Henry interactions have their own special place in my mind.
Give me that grumpy x sunshine, obsessed ML and as per my observation from the previous books, an equally obsessed FL whose been plotting to kiss the ML for some time now!
May 21, 2023
I'd burn the world for her.
Well this was cuteness overload. Clara and Henry, like Jules and Ruben, have a lot of background development in previous books in the series. I think in this case, it hurt the book more than it helped. Clara and Henry make their feelings known relatively quickly and so their relationship progresses rather fast for my liking. I wish we got more of the mutual pining that we got glimpses of in Clara's sisters' books. Because of this, I recommend reading the books in order, just for the sake of spoilers, it is best to consume these books in the order they were published.
In terms of plot, I think this one had the weakest storyline, I wasn't totally invested in Henry's dad and his life, so by the 50% mark my interest was dwindling. HOWEVER, I will say, that the characters totally saved this book. It is no surprise that I am a huge fan of this series, I am bound to have books in this series I like more than others and that is fine. Everyone likes different things in their romance books, and this one had some things I don't really prefer which is fine. It doesn't mean this book was bad by any means, i really did enjoy reading it, just not a new favorite.
I am really sad that this is the last book in the series. Since they all had so many kids I would LOVE A GEN 2 spin off. But writing a book for each kid sounds exhausting so, I would also ADORE anything else that took place in this world. This has become one of my favorite series, and I am so happy with how it ended.
3.5-4 stars I really can't decide on a rating, I will probably change it tomorrow.
Well this was cuteness overload. Clara and Henry, like Jules and Ruben, have a lot of background development in previous books in the series. I think in this case, it hurt the book more than it helped. Clara and Henry make their feelings known relatively quickly and so their relationship progresses rather fast for my liking. I wish we got more of the mutual pining that we got glimpses of in Clara's sisters' books. Because of this, I recommend reading the books in order, just for the sake of spoilers, it is best to consume these books in the order they were published.
In terms of plot, I think this one had the weakest storyline, I wasn't totally invested in Henry's dad and his life, so by the 50% mark my interest was dwindling. HOWEVER, I will say, that the characters totally saved this book. It is no surprise that I am a huge fan of this series, I am bound to have books in this series I like more than others and that is fine. Everyone likes different things in their romance books, and this one had some things I don't really prefer which is fine. It doesn't mean this book was bad by any means, i really did enjoy reading it, just not a new favorite.
I am really sad that this is the last book in the series. Since they all had so many kids I would LOVE A GEN 2 spin off. But writing a book for each kid sounds exhausting so, I would also ADORE anything else that took place in this world. This has become one of my favorite series, and I am so happy with how it ended.
3.5-4 stars I really can't decide on a rating, I will probably change it tomorrow.
May 28, 2023
The slowest of burns, that took 6 books in the making but was so worth it. The last pairing: Clara -Aura witch and Henry - grim.
I wanted their story since I read the first book and I definitely wasn't disappointed.
Clara is a bold , sexy young woman that saw something she wanted and really went for him with her all. Henry is the sweetest male character so far, although standoffish with pretty much everyone else he is all in for Clara, one taste and this shy grim became a naughty boy😅
Loved the plot, and although bittersweet I loved the epilogue. Everything had been wrapped up so cute and sweet for this big family.
Hopefully JC will have a spin-off in mind.
I wanted their story since I read the first book and I definitely wasn't disappointed.
Clara is a bold , sexy young woman that saw something she wanted and really went for him with her all. Henry is the sweetest male character so far, although standoffish with pretty much everyone else he is all in for Clara, one taste and this shy grim became a naughty boy😅
Loved the plot, and although bittersweet I loved the epilogue. Everything had been wrapped up so cute and sweet for this big family.
Hopefully JC will have a spin-off in mind.
October 24, 2024
Reread 2024: I love Clara and Henry. The plot was still engaging and I would recommend all the books in the Stay a Spell series.
I was able to get an ARC last night and devoured Grim and Bear It today.
Clara knew that Henry was her soulmate and that they were destined to eventually have 7 children together. But Henry did not get her subtle flirtation. At the end of her rope, Clara decided it was time to seduce Henry. And she began by inviting him to become a member of her romance book club. Henry didn't need to be seduced because he loved her since they first met in a bookstore where he helped her find the perfect edition of Pride and Prejudice. Unlike Pride and Prejudice and just like the other books in the Stay a Spell series, Clara and Henry's relationship becomes hot and smutty, and sweet and beautiful. They glowed together and complimented each other. Henry is dark and broody, but he is also is sweet and romantic. Clara is not as angelic as she appeared to be in the earlier books, but she always knew what she needed to do as she fully embraced her magic.
The subplot dealt with Henry's fathers, which was really interesting. There is NO third act break up, but the conflict required Henry and Clara to work together and lean on each other. Henry growing into his magic as he healed with not just Clara's help, but also his own determination to master his powers in order to help his family was a fantastic journey. We did not just hear about the other characters that we got to know and love throughout the series, but they were a part of the story as supporting characters. I've been so excited for Clara and Henry's story since book, and the wait was worth it.
I was able to get an ARC last night and devoured Grim and Bear It today.
Clara knew that Henry was her soulmate and that they were destined to eventually have 7 children together. But Henry did not get her subtle flirtation. At the end of her rope, Clara decided it was time to seduce Henry. And she began by inviting him to become a member of her romance book club. Henry didn't need to be seduced because he loved her since they first met in a bookstore where he helped her find the perfect edition of Pride and Prejudice. Unlike Pride and Prejudice and just like the other books in the Stay a Spell series, Clara and Henry's relationship becomes hot and smutty, and sweet and beautiful. They glowed together and complimented each other. Henry is dark and broody, but he is also is sweet and romantic. Clara is not as angelic as she appeared to be in the earlier books, but she always knew what she needed to do as she fully embraced her magic.
The subplot dealt with Henry's fathers, which was really interesting. There is NO third act break up, but the conflict required Henry and Clara to work together and lean on each other. Henry growing into his magic as he healed with not just Clara's help, but also his own determination to master his powers in order to help his family was a fantastic journey. We did not just hear about the other characters that we got to know and love throughout the series, but they were a part of the story as supporting characters. I've been so excited for Clara and Henry's story since book, and the wait was worth it.
May 18, 2023
Believe me, nobody is more disappointed with my rating of this book than I am. Of all the characters in the series, Clara and Henry were the number one couple that I was dying to read about, but their few and far between interactions throughout the series makes for a better romance than their actual book.
Because they've been developing bit by bit in the background of all the other sister's books, their story is insanely fast-paced. There's no angst, no yearning, no "will they/won't they?". Cross takes their interactions from all the other books leading up to this as enough build-up to the relationship, and so Grim and Bear It quiet literally starts off with an attitude of "alright, we've waited long enough, let's start dating. Immediately."
And while that's not my favourite trope, it can work. This one just didn't. There was no romance itself, but more a checklist of what goes into a romance story; first kiss, first date, spice, "I love you". There's no fun and engaging plot behind the love story like we're used to with all the other sisters, just a trope-check-list for the last couple to wrap up the series in a convenient bow.
The one thing I did like however was the ending. It was much darker than what we're used to seeing in the series and I think it would've made for a much more compelling story if the whole book had that dark and moody tone to it. Something about Henry's book being filled with sparkles and sunshine and rainbows just gave me the ick.
Because they've been developing bit by bit in the background of all the other sister's books, their story is insanely fast-paced. There's no angst, no yearning, no "will they/won't they?". Cross takes their interactions from all the other books leading up to this as enough build-up to the relationship, and so Grim and Bear It quiet literally starts off with an attitude of "alright, we've waited long enough, let's start dating. Immediately."
And while that's not my favourite trope, it can work. This one just didn't. There was no romance itself, but more a checklist of what goes into a romance story; first kiss, first date, spice, "I love you". There's no fun and engaging plot behind the love story like we're used to with all the other sisters, just a trope-check-list for the last couple to wrap up the series in a convenient bow.
The one thing I did like however was the ending. It was much darker than what we're used to seeing in the series and I think it would've made for a much more compelling story if the whole book had that dark and moody tone to it. Something about Henry's book being filled with sparkles and sunshine and rainbows just gave me the ick.
December 14, 2023
4.25 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
I’ve officially finished this series 😭
Loved this one - just like all the others.
The characters were more dimensional than I had expected. The happy-go-lucky FMC is not usually my type but I enjoyed learning more about her. Along with the elusive MMC Henry.
It was also not as much of a slow burn as I had expected. But the spice was 🤌🏽
So sad these are all over… anyone have any recs for similar?
I’ve officially finished this series 😭
Loved this one - just like all the others.
The characters were more dimensional than I had expected. The happy-go-lucky FMC is not usually my type but I enjoyed learning more about her. Along with the elusive MMC Henry.
It was also not as much of a slow burn as I had expected. But the spice was 🤌🏽
So sad these are all over… anyone have any recs for similar?
May 24, 2023
1,5⭐ This was a f@$kin joke of a book. Thank's for wasting my time and patience. What a dissapointing end of a great series 😑
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