Crows, Chaos, and Mystery: Grim Kicks Off the Withering Mysteries Series
- BlondeBookDiaries
- Jan 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 29

As a fan of Supernatural and The Witcher, I can confidently say that Amy Boyles’ Grim is the perfect blend of dark magic, action, and emotional depth. This first installment in The Withering Mysteries sets the stage for a thrilling series filled with monsters, curses, and deeply human struggles. Grim, the titular hero, is everything you want in a lead: strong, vulnerable, and impossible not to root for.
What Makes Grim Stand Out
Grim is a monster hunter unlike any other. Gruff and resilient, yet tender toward those he cares about, he embodies the ultimate hero. When Boyles describes him as a “Witcher type,” she’s spot-on. Watching him balance his strength and vulnerability makes him one of the most compelling characters I’ve read in a long time.
The world Boyles creates is filled with cursed creatures, witches, and plenty of magical intrigue, making every page feel alive. When Grim encounters a mysterious figure with a dark enchantment, his mix of reluctant duty and quiet compassion sets the tone for the emotional and action-packed journey that follows.
The Storyline
The book wastes no time pulling you into Grim’s dangerous world. Cursed with a Withering—a condition that threatens to consume his humanity—Grim embarks on a mission to find a cure. Along the way, he teams up with a cast of characters that bring humor and heart to the story.
Grim’s journey is packed with twists and turns that make his challenges even harder. He’s constantly fighting with little to no information, forcing him to rely on instinct and sheer determination to survive. The stakes feel high and immediate, keeping you glued to the page from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love It
Amy Boyles’ storytelling shines in Grim. The plot isn’t just a series of surface-level adventures; it’s layered with emotional depth, high stakes, and character growth that makes you care deeply about every decision Grim makes.
Even though the main character isn’t a badass woman (a personal favorite of mine), Grim’s complexity, strength, and heart made this book an absolute joy to read. His relationship with Paige adds warmth and humor, balancing the darker themes of the story perfectly.
STEAMY Level & Where to Read
While the romance is present, it’s kept to a simmer, with the focus primarily on the plot and character dynamics.
STEAMY Level: 1/10 (Nonexistent—completely safe for public reading!)
Feel free to take this one anywhere without worrying about raised eyebrows.
Final Thoughts
Grim is a strong start to The Withering Mysteries, combining heart-pounding action with emotional depth and sharp storytelling. Amy Boyles creates a world that feels as magical as it is dangerous, with characters you can’t help but root for.
If you’re a fan of Supernatural, The Witcher, or just love a well-written magical adventure, this is the book for you. Make sure to have the next two books ready, because once you start, you won’t want to stop.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
Have you read Grim or any of Amy Boyles’ other series? Let me know your thoughts below, and share which magical mysteries you think I should read next!
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