Grim and Oro by Alex Aster
Lightlark Series Novellas (Dueling Crowns Edition)
Release Date: 09-30-2025
Rating: 3/5
Spice: 1/5
Plot: 2/5
Primary Genre: Young Adult Fantasy Romance
Blurb: Two brand-new romantasy novellas bound into one deluxe, novel-length volume written from the perspectives of Grim and Oro, from #1 New York Times-bestselling author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster
True love knows no bounds. This premium, dual-sided volume includes two complete novellas bound together to create one can’t-miss collector’s item. The first novella—told from Grim’s perspective—gives readers insight into his past: the motivations and events that cemented his fate as Isla’s eventual love interest. The second is narrated by Oro and offers a window into his complex identity: that of a king torn between desire for justice and passion for the woman he loves more than anything. Grim and Oro: Dueling Crowns Edition includes key moments from the rulers’ love stories with Isla, expanded upon in their own voices.
This gorgeous dual-sided Lightlark companion book from #1 New York Times bestselling author Alex Aster contains two full novellas bound together in one breathtaking package that boasts a suite of premium features:
Dual-sided slipcase with two unique cover designs
Die cuts and foil stamping in two colors on both sides of slipcase
Full-color case with illustrations on both sides
Full-color, stenciled edges
Full-color endpapers with never-before-seen illustrations
Grim and Oro is certain to thrill readers and test allegiances, leaving new and longtime fans second-guessing who they’re rooting for in the breathtaking battle for Isla’s heart.
My Thoughts:
First of all, this physical book is absolutely gorgeous. I picked it up at Target on release day and the artwork is beautiful. The sprayed edges are chef’s kiss, I’m in love with the whole design. Is this purchase something that I would call necessary for the plot? I mean, it’s not ESSENTIAL. But after reading Crowntide, it does come in handy to be able to understand Grim and Oro’s relationship pre-Isla. I red Oro’s first, I’m not really sure why I chose to do that. Honestly Oro’s story mostly felt like a recap of books 1 and 2, just from Oro’s POV. The only benefit to reading this is if you want some understanding of Oro’s relationship with Grim when they were young or his love for Isla. Grim’s book is much better and actually has more of a new storyline in it than Oro’s, allowing you to completely relive Grim and Isla’s love story from the day they met up until the day he wipes her memories, etc. It also gives you the background of his tortured upbringing and his tumultuous relationships within his family. I wouldn’t say this is a CAN’T MISS book, but as a fan of the Lightlark series, I did enjoy it. Moreso Grim’s book.
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