The Deathly Grimm (The Forest Grimm, #2) – A Journey Through Enchantment and Shadows
As a lover of dark fairy tales and twisted destinies, I was all too eager to return to the enchanting yet perilous world that author K.C. Shaw has woven in The Deathly Grimm, the conclusion to The Forest Grimm series. Having eagerly anticipated this sequel since finishing the first book, the return of Clara Thurn in her vibrant red cape felt like reuniting with an old friend in a realm where magic and danger dance hand in hand.
In this darkly magical forest, Clara and her companion Axel embark once more on a perilous quest, this time searching for a missing page that holds the key to breaking a deadly curse. What I particularly enjoyed was the clever interweaving of classic fairy tale characters—think Rumpelstiltskin and Snow White—though they emerge from the shadows in a way that’s anything but Disney-fied. Here, they serve as eerie reminders of what’s at stake, lending an air of nostalgia while keeping the narrative fresh and haunting.
The book opens with Clara’s plea, “Sortes Fortunae, hear my voice. Understand my heart and its deepest desire. My name is Clara Thurn…” This invocation sets the tone, bringing magic and tension to the forefront right from the start. While the plot (a solid 3.5 out of 5 in my book) had moments where I felt the pacing dragged, particularly compared to the fast-paced escapade of the first installment, the emotional depth and character development were where it truly shone.
Speaking of characters, Clara stands out with her resilience and vulnerability, showcasing growth that resonated with me throughout the narrative. Readers will find themselves rooting for her and Axel’s burgeoning romance, which, although on the subtle side (3.25 in my rating), was genuinely satisfying by the end. Their dynamic evolves beautifully, and the resolution feels earned—something I deeply appreciated as I turned the final pages.
K.C. Shaw’s writing is lush and evocative, with descriptive passages that conjure up an enchanting yet perilous atmosphere. The lyrical quality of the prose invites readers to lose themselves in this bewitched forest, making even the darker elements enticing. Moments of intensity—like when Clara grapples with the repercussions of her visions of the past—are well-articulated, tightening the emotional pulse of the story.
As I reflect on my reading experience, I can’t help but emphasize the unexpected twists that surprised me in the end. The connection between Clara and the larger narrative arc took a turn I didn’t anticipate, which left me both satisfied and pondering.
Overall, I’d recommend The Deathly Grimm to those who adore whimsical, darker fairy tales and crave a blend of atmospheric magic with complex characters. It’s a journey through enchantment that holds a mirror to our fears and desires—and for that, it has certainly left its mark on me.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan of fairy tale retellings or someone new to this genre, the world K.C. Shaw creates will surely captivate. This book may leave you enchanted, lingering long after you turn the last page. Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Macmillan Audio, for the early copy—this magical duet has certainly stolen a piece of my heart.✨
Discover more about The Deathly Grimm (The Forest Grimm, #2) on GoodReads >>