The third and final instalment in The Sister’s Grimm Trilogy was a heartfelt contemporary fantasy, blending the magic of fairytales with real world struggles— that I found incredibly compelling.

Delving into themes such as grief, trauma, sacrifice and motherhood, Menna Van Praag paints an intriguing tale of empowerment which I felt brought a sense of introspection and intimacy to the characters that really helped bring them to life. 

Particularly Goldie, who, from the loss and grief she’s experienced, has found herself becoming a smidge over protective when it comes to her loved ones. But especially of her precocious daughter, whose powers are beyond anything Goldie or the other Grimm sisters have ever seen. 

I adored the very real, human emotions of our POV characters: Goldie, Luna (her daughter),Teddy (her little brother who helps her run the women’s shelter) and fellow Grimm sister, Scarlet (still battling the grief and guilt of the past.) Their struggles were relatable, and emphasised that not all problems can be easily solved with magic. My only criticism is that it ended for too quickly for my liking. I would’ve loved to have delved into Luna’s story a bit more. 

I’ve actually never read the rest of the series, but there’s some (brief) exposition cleverly woven in, that gave enough insight for me to keep up with the plot without getting confused. So, technically this can be read without prior knowledge of the rest of the series. But I do think for the most enjoyment, it would be best to read the whole series. 

Overall, an enjoyably pacy read that gothic leaning, contemporary fantasy lovers should consider picking up. Especially as Van Praag shares a few fairytale inspired short stories, between chapters. 

Also, thanks to Chloe Rose and Penguin for the PB copy.