This brilliant follow up once again shows why Kathryn Purdie's popularity continues to grow and grow with my students. A fantastic read.

The Deathly Grimm by Kathryn Purdie is an atmospheric and imaginative story that offers a dark, intriguing twist on classic fairy tale themes. Purdie’s writing is vivid and beautifully descriptive, creating a moody, haunting world that pulls the reader in from the start. The concept is unique, and there’s a lot to admire in the way she blends fantasy with a gothic edge.

However, while the setting and premise were compelling, the pacing felt uneven at times. Certain parts of the story dragged, and it occasionally felt like the plot lost momentum. Some of the character development also fell a bit short for me — I wanted a deeper emotional connection to their struggles and motivations.

That said, fans of dark fantasy and reimagined folklore will still find much to enjoy here, especially if they appreciate lush, atmospheric storytelling. The Deathly Grimm is a creative and stylish read, even if it doesn’t fully reach its potential.

I've grown up with fairytales, like a lot of readers in this world, and no matter how many retellings I read, I just never grow bored of them. I want more and more and more. I really enjoyed the first book in this series and I was therefore really happy that I could get an arc from Magpie of this sequel through Netgalley. But, even better, today, on release date, I also received my physical copy and I just had to read the last few chapters holding the hardcover in my hands.

At the start of this book I was a little afraid that this book would repeat a lot of what was done in the previous book. The curse wasn't entirely broken after all. And although my favourite elements of the previous books were all there, the retold fairytales, the people of the town and their connections, the dark magic, the author added an extra element that made the book even more interesting: A murder mystery.

However, that also means that I can't give too much away in this book. I can just say that the author did an amazing job connecting all the individual elements of the story. The characters we meet in this book are wonderfully connected to the characters we've already met before. And the curse, the murder mystery and the tales we encounter in this book also connect in a beautiful, heartbreaking and kinda dark finale.

And although this book is mostly focussing on the fairytales, there's also a lot of heart and emotion in this novel. The last chapter of the book was heartbreaking and beautiful at once. The fights and struggles our couple were facing while on their quest also felt realistic. And throughout the book I just kept on hoping that one way or another there would be a happy ending for everyone. But, would it be a real fairytale if there were? Probably not.

Thank you for a copy of this to read ahead of the publication date

I liked this was more than the first one in the duology; I think the author explored the fairytales a bit more than in the first one. I remember feeling that it was very brief in the first one so it was nice they were more drawn out in this one. I really liked the huntsman/rumplestiltskin character.

I do like how the author handles Clara trying to change her fate. She's had her cards read, and does everything she can to try and avoid the literal meanings however fate always wins, no matter how hard you try to battle it.

That being said, I haven't loved this duology as a whole, as it felt very lumpily mashed together, and quite rushed whilst being long-winded. I also really hated the ending of this one, as it felt semi-lazy in regards to having a time jump to the village being fine rather than actually exploring the townsfolk putting it together and rebuilding after all the fairytale chaos.

Although I didn't read the first book, it was easy to follow the story. Events from the previous book were explained well, and didn't stop me from enjoying the book. This is a dark YA fantasy, based on several fairy tales, with a slow-burning love story and surprising twists that are woven throughout the book.

The villagers live in fear of the Forest, a dangerous place where people become Lost if they stay there too long, and they transform into fairy-tale beings. There is plenty of adventure and drama, and, of course, magic.

A well-written fantasy story perfect for older teens and those who like the darker side of fairy tales. Highly recommended!

A huge thank you to Kathryn Purdie, Harper Collins/Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Deathly Grimm.

I read The Forest Grimm and I absolutely loved it, so I was eager to read the conclusion to this fantastic duology! I adore the fact that it doesn’t focus on one fairytale and instead gives us nods to many of them and it’s done in such a fantastic way that it doesn’t feel like overkill!

Even though a big part of the mystery was solved in book 1, there were still lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing! Clara is such a likeable FMC and I loved the physical disability rep with regards to her spine issues.

The various storylines were expertly woven together and I loved seeing them all come to their conclusions. I really enjoyed this duology and would highly recommend to fairytale / fantasy fans!

I really enjoyed The Forest Grimm (received in Fairyloot YA box) and was looking forward to reading the conclusion of the duology. The Deathly Grimm was even more atmospheric and spooky than The Forest Grimm. I really enjoyed following Clara and Axel's journey, especially how they navigated some news that changed their world-view. So many YA books have teenage characters who act like adults. I loved the fact that Kathryn Purdie showed the turbulent emotions associated with that awkward phase of late teens/early adulthood, and what it means for young love and seeking your own place in the world.

I especially enjoyed the murder mystery element and thought the way that was executed, with more Brothers Grimm's tales weaved in and adapted to fit the story, to be masterful.

The Deathly Grimm was a fast-paced read, which I flew through. I was finding it hard to put down because I needed to know what's going to happen next. It kept me at the edge of my seat, and the ending was really unexpected. The romance between Clara and Axel was sweet; loved the way their young relationship was tested as even though the setting was fantastical, the circumstances were highly relatable.

A brilliant sequel and conclusion to this duology. It picks up almost immediately after the first book and I was just as hooked as I was with The Forest Grimm.

I loved that we didn’t hang around in the village too much at the beginning and were straight into the forest again with new and different fairytale characters being reimagined.

However the use of “s-curve” was repeated way too much, it was said a lot in the first book and I feel like it wasn’t needed in the sequel. Also Clara hiding so much from Axel when they said they’d only trust each other and yet she doesn’t trust him at all for the entire book was slightly ridiculous.

Overall though I thoroughly enjoyed this and would absolutely read more of Kathryn Purdie’s works.

The second book in this duology brought more tension and atmosphere to the forest wrought with mystery, adventure, and romance.
Clara and Axel must once again head into the forest to find the missing page of the book, along with the person who caused the curse in the first place by using the book for murder. We meet more fairy tale characters and uncover the secrets of the Forest Grimm.
I love the personification of the forest and the way it draws people in. So spooky and whimsical. It feels like a character in of itself and often the moments between the character and the forest are the ones I find myself loving the most.
This duology is perfect for fans of fairy tales and lovers of YA fiction.

Kathryn Purdie’s The Deathly Grimm is a spellbinding and haunting conclusion to the Forest Grimm duology, weaving together romance, mystery, and the eerie allure of dark fairy tales. Picking up where the first book left off, this sequel plunges readers back into the treacherous, enchanted forest where danger lurks in every shadow and the stakes are higher than ever.

Clara and Axel, having narrowly escaped the Forest Grimm and defeated the Wolf, return to their village hoping for safety and peace. But the forest’s curse is far from broken. As it begins to lure more villagers into its depths, Clara and Axel realize they’ve only scratched the surface of its dark magic. Determined to uncover the true source of the curse—the identity of the murderer who started it all—they venture back into the forest, where they face riddling woodsmen, ghostly apparitions, and spectral ladies who dance with death.

Purdie’s world-building is as lush and atmospheric as ever, blending the beauty of fairy tales with the chilling tension of a dark fantasy. The forest itself feels like a character, its malevolent presence looming over every page. Clara’s journey is both emotional and gripping, as she grapples with visions of the past and the fragile new bond she shares with Axel. Their relationship, tested by danger and uncertainty, adds a layer of tenderness and depth to the story, making their struggles all the more poignant.

A great read for lovers of Naomi Novik, the novel’s pacing is masterful, with each twist and turn heightening the sense of urgency and dread. Purdie’s prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the eerie beauty of the forest and the raw emotions of her characters.

⭐ 3.5/5 Stars

Steeped in fairy-tale magic and dark whimsy, *The Deathly Grimm* is a delightful and fitting conclusion to this duology. Kathryn Purdie masterfully blends enchanted forests, eerie folklore, and a touch of mystery, making this a cozy yet thrilling read.

The story has all the hallmarks of a classic fairy tale—curses, secrets, and a heroine determined to uncover the truth. The atmosphere is rich, filled with shadowy woods and whispered legends, while the mystery keeps the pages turning. Though some twists are predictable and certain moments could have been more fleshed out, the book remains an enjoyable adventure.

If you love fairy-tale retellings with a gothic edge and a sprinkle of cozy mystery, *The Deathly Grimm* is a charming, magical read that wraps up the series in a satisfying way! 😊

3 stars - YA fantasy sequel

After only partially breaking the curse in the first book, Clara and Axel set off again into the forest Grimm to follow the only clue left by the book. Their goal is to find out who made the wish that lead to the murder of a villager, to restore the village and the books clue says he is in the forest.

I think the premise of the story is really fun and I love the fairy tale aspect and how it includes variations of characters such as Rumpelstiltskin, princess and the frog and red riding hood. I would definitely recommend for younger YA readers. I was surprised by the ending and who the villain of the story turned out to be.

For older YA readers, however, I found the pacing quite slow and the relationship between Axel and Clara frustrating. I don't think Clara and Axel should have ended up together if I'm being honest. I felt like Axel didn't support or believe in Clara enough and found he was quite mean to her sometimes. I would have also liked more world building and history of the village and book.

Would recommend for younger YA readers and for fans of fairy tale retellings.

The Deathly Grimm follows Clara in the aftermath of a failed attempt to break the curse on the town. The Sortes Fortunae detailed that the curse would only be broken if its missing page is found, and the killer of Bren Zimmer revealed. Thus, Clara and Axel find themselves back in the Forest Grimm, with all new challenges, and encounters with new Lost Ones. Clara hones her seer abilities, and their love is put to the test.
This book is a very good sequel to The Forest Grimm. I enjoyed the new fairytales that were woven into this story. The story was engaging, and the mystery aspect was very well done. I really enjoyed getting to see glimpses into the past through Clara’s visions, and see how she pieces together the information to unmask the person/people responsible for the death of Bren.
The Forest Grimm was a 5 star read for me, and this book was a very solid conclusion to the story.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is the 2nd half of the Grimm Forest duology and I actually think I preferred this book to the first (which I also really enjoyed).

Part murder mystery, part fetch quest, this book sees Clara and Axel return to the Forest to find the missing page from The Book and also reveal the killer who brought about the curse on their village.

It's woven with characters loosely based on Grimm Fairytales (although not as many this time) and although the final reveal was a little predictable, getting there was a lot of fun!

My only gripe (and it was the same as the first book!) is the overuse of S-curve for Clara's back. I think disabled representation is fantastic and I love the adaptions to her clothing to accommodate it, but it just felt like a weird modern medical way to describe it. It's a silly little thing though and overall the book is immersive and very enjoyable.

This is a great sequel to the The forest Grimm. We follow Clara and Axel as they return to the forest Grimm, navigate their new relationship, continue to try to lift the curse on grimms hollow and come to terms with what happened in book one.
We meet new characters along the way and learn more about the characters we came to love in The forest Grimm.
I love the way the author weaves parts of the Grimm fairytales we have come to know and love into the story in her own unique way and the murder mystery element of this story.
The ending is a beautiful and satisfying conclusion to the duology. I would highly recommend these books to anyone who loves YA fairytale inspired stories.
Thank you HarperCollins uk/magpie and NetGalley for a copy of this Arc.

Having read book one I was intrigued to see where book two would go.

When they realise they haven’t actually broken the curse, Clara and Axel must return to the forest to try and finish what they started. They need to find the murderer that initiated the curse.

“Romantic, eerie, and beautiful, The Deathly Grimm is the triumphant conclusion to Kathryn Purdie's bestselling Forest Grimm duology.”

I loved the side characters introduced in this one! I don’t want to give spoilers but their ‘companion’ in the forest was far more likeable than Henni in book one! That character was so interesting and really made the book for me.

As with book one they meet a variety of ‘fairytale’ character within the forest, all with a darker twist - this time, however, they’re on a time limited quest. They must find the murderer before the forest takes over the village forever. These added stakes increased the tension in the narrative, as you could sense the clock ticking away.

Axel and Clara are so cute together - I loved that this novel developed their relationship from book one. With all the angst you’d expect in a young adult novel!

It was clear from around the 50% mark who the murderer was - I was very intrigued to see how the plot would play out and how the characters would resolve the issues to bring the novel to its conclusion.

Overall I really enjoyed this conclusion to the duology and would recommend!

ARC copy provided by Harper Collis UK/Magpie & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

If you thought The Forest Grimm was wild, just wait until you dive into The Deathly Grimm! This sequel is packed with eerie vibes, high stakes, and the perfect dose of romance to keep you hooked from start to finish. Kathryn Purdie really brought her A-game for the conclusion to this duology.

The forest is creepier than ever, and just when you think Clara and Axel can catch a break, surprise—the curse isn’t done with them. I loved the new twists and turns as Clara and Axel head back into the woods. The riddles, deadly creatures, and hauntingly magical beings they encounter kept me on edge the whole time. It’s like every fairy tale nightmare came alive, but in the best, most terrifying way.

What I really appreciated was how much Clara grew in this book. She’s finally embracing her visions, and her strength and determination are next level. Plus, the tension between her and Axel? So good. Their relationship is tested in some pretty heartbreaking ways, and you can’t help but root for them as they fight to save their home—and each other. The ending was bittersweet, but honestly, it felt just right for this story. Not everyone gets a fairy tale happy ending, but it’s all the more powerful because of that.

If you’re a fan of dark fairytales, mysterious forests, or stories that keep you guessing, this one’s for you. It’s like Once Upon a Time meets The Brothers Grimm with a pinch of romance and a whole lot of danger. Highly recommend this series—it’s the kind of duology you’ll want to reread just to soak in all the details!

The deathly Grimm was fantastic! I just Loved reading it. I suppose all you need to know is that it’s a cracking action-packed story with a highly satisfactory ending – I really do recommend it.

The Deathly Grimm was such a captivating, eerie adventure - I couldn’t put it down. The dark fairytale vibes were absolutely on point, and I loved diving back into the cursed forest with Clara and Axel. The tension between them, both romantic and emotional, gave the story so much heart, and watching Clara grow into her abilities while they unraveled the truth behind the curse kept me hooked. The creepy forest creatures and sinister riddles made the stakes feel higher than ever, and I found myself holding my breath more than once.

What I really appreciated was how the story didn’t shy away from its darker elements - it embraced the danger, loss, and haunting beauty of the forest while still offering hope and redemption. The ending felt satisfying and bittersweet, giving just the right mix of closure and wonder. If you love fairytales with a sharp edge, a touch of romance, and a world that feels both magical and menacing, this duology delivers. I already know I’ll be thinking about that forest for a long time!

This book was everything I could've ever wanted and more. It was a great sequel to book 1 of the series, as well as a great way to end the story.