The Unusual Suspects (The Sisters Grimm, #2)

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The Unusual Suspects (The Sisters Grimm #2)

by Michael Buckley

4.16 · rating details · 4,582 ratings · 412 reviews

In book two of the series, the Sisters Grimm start school at Ferryport Landing Elementary. Daphnes lucky enough to get Snow White for a teachershe loves little peoplebut poor Sabrinas stuck with Mr. Grumpner and a class of mildly psychotic sixth graders. When Mr. Grumpner is found hanging in a spiders web, it is up to the Grimms to find the Everafter who did it. If only Sa...more

Paperback, 290 pages

Published April 1st 2007 by Amulet (first published October 1st 2005)

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Community Reviews

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Aug 21, 2007

Jennie rated it

Shelves: nonrequired-work-reading

Sabrina and Daphne are off to school. Daphne loves being in class with Snow White as a teacher, but Sabrina’s having a tougher time–she keeps getting teased and beat up. Things don’t get any better when Puck joins her class! But even Daphne can’t deny there are monsters loose in the school and they’re killing people. There are red handprints all over. Even Mayor Charming is turning to the Grimm Sisters for help solving the case!

But Sabrina's anger at not being able to find her paren...more

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Apr 05, 2008

Tina rated it

Recommends it for: kids, fantasy fans

Shelves: kid-lit, 2008

I wish they had these books around when I was growing up. They are a fun read with a protagonist that any hormonal tween can relate too. I appreciate that we see faults in Sabrina as she learns some hard truths about herself. Flawed heroes and heroines are always more interesting. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.

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Aug 27, 2007

MsThomas rated it

Shelves: ks3years7-9

I read this book on the plane back from the US, and it was terrific! The main character, Sabrina, was feisty and interesting, and the plot was just complex enough to hold my interest. The idea behind this series is that the Brothers Grimm and all the fairytale characters founded a town alongside humans with magical protection so they can live safely (they were chased out of Europe). The Sisters Grimm, modern day relatives of the brothers, live with their grandmother and solve local crimes whil...more

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Jan 04, 2012

Shweta's Book Journal rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: ya-fantasy

It's been a while since I reviewed my first Micheal Buckley book in Sisters Grimm series. For those who haven't read that review , I loved it. I know it's more of a tween book but there is so much in it for everybody. I guess there's a child in each of us who refuses to grow up. One who can gulp down fairy tales , Nancy Drews, Hardy Boys , Ramona Quimbys without giving a thought to the adult image we carry around. Don't let the tag of a fairy story stop you from reading this book. Believe me it'...moreIt's been a while since I reviewed my first Micheal Buckley book in Sisters Grimm series. For those who haven't read that review , I loved it. I know it's more of a tween book but there is so much in it for everybody. I guess there's a child in each of us who refuses to grow up. One who can gulp down fairy tales , Nancy Drews, Hardy Boys , Ramona Quimbys without giving a thought to the adult image we carry around. Don't let the tag of a fairy story stop you from reading this book. Believe me it's worth the read.

Story picks up from where first book ended and reunites us with the quirky Grimms. Grumpy ,irritating Sabrina , Oh so cute Daphne , pathetically mischievous Puck and the loving and resourceful granny. I think the twist Buckley gives to the much loved fairy tale characters are amazing. Each time a new fairy tale character is introduced, I keep thinking , is he good ? is she what she used to be in the original tale? Buckley keeps us guessing for quite a while before the truth comes out and when it does, you are not shocked but amazed as to how much these new qualities suit the characters. Though I am sure I would never be able to read about an evil Snow White :) Vain Prince Charming, may be, but not evil princess! That's where I'll draw the line .

Daphne was as usual awesome and totally in awe of her new teacher . Any guesses who could that be ? Sabrina on the other hand was frustrating! Ok ,this girl needs a post of her own. I have named her the grand dame of grumpiness. I have seen and read about angst ridden teens but Sabrina is the limit. She can drive you nuts through the pages on the book. Imagine if she was real. I think granny needs to put some sense into her or may be Puck could do that ! Puck has graduated on to more vicious tricks and can be a pest at times. But you'll like him.

This book is more about the mystery at the girls school and the Everafters attempt at trying to leave the place and be free of the enchantment put on them and Ferryport Landing by Baba Yaga. Some important revelations occur throughout the book and then there is the ending . You wouldn't imagine something like that to happen. I mean we have read these fairy tales and think each of them is cute and sweet and lots of other similar adjectives but this was a SHOCKER. Now when I think of it, may be I can understand the motives but with an ending like that , I would be a fool not to read the next book.

If you ever loved fairy tales , you will enjoy this immensly. Though it's middle grade fiction ,I believe the appeal is ageless.

Have you read this book? If so how did you like it ?(less)

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Jul 06, 2011

Misslittlebookfeet rated it

I loved the Unusual Suspects; it did have its flaws but as it helped me through a break-up I gave it five stars. Anyway, on to the review.

I started with this book in the Sister's Grimm series under the belief that this was the first book while I read it. I found out that the Unusual Suspects was the second book which surprised me. I wasn't confused about the characters or story which, was one trait which appealed to me greatly; occasionally you must read the first book to understand th...moreI loved the Unusual Suspects; it did have its flaws but as it helped me through a break-up I gave it five stars. Anyway, on to the review.

I started with this book in the Sister's Grimm series under the belief that this was the first book while I read it. I found out that the Unusual Suspects was the second book which surprised me. I wasn't confused about the characters or story which, was one trait which appealed to me greatly; occasionally you must read the first book to understand the second. The book had me engaged from the first sentence though Buckely's writing style wasn't the most captivating he managed to entice the reader using words to his advantage. That alone was quite a nice touch for me, I enjoy a author who is capable of using words to his advantage.

Anyway, in this book Sabrina Grimm and Daphne Grimm begin school. Daphne is entranced by her beautiful new teacher Snow White, an everafter and quickly becomes popular in her class while Sabrina suffers with Puck in her class and manages to get in trouble on her first day as well. Shortly afterward, a series of mysterious murders occur in the school which the Grimm's decide to investigate. Mysteries follow; I don't want to spoil the story for you!

Buckely describes the murder scene with details and accurate points which makes me feel that this story should be aimed at teenagers rather than children, due to the slight dark feel to the book. I found the font bulky and rather unattractive but it really didn't matter as the story was excellent. I found the brisk pace was a nice touch with the mysterious feel; it kept me interested. The book is slightly unpredictable which was another surprise as I thought it would be rather predictable.

Sabrina's treatment of the everafters was appalling, rude and made me feel like slapping her. I understood her anger, though, and made a few connections with her. She and Puck make a adorable couple; it's so obvious what Buckley has planned for those two. Daphne was eager and fun to read about and Puck is ,y personal favorite character. He's lovably annoying but he made and makes me laugh. Oh, that trickster king does!

I loved the concept pure genius! The idea of everafters, the barrier, the town and using the Grimms this way! My favorite everafters so far are Puck, Snow and Mr. Canis. They are endearing characters or will be once they are fleshed out more.

In conclusion, I enjoyed this book greatly and would recommend it to any fantasy lover! I hope this book serves all its readers tastes!(less)

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Feb 18, 2010

Drebbles rated it

Shelves: 2006

Sabrina and Daphne Grimm have been living with their grandmother for over a month and they are just now starting to go to school. Seven-year-old Daphne adjusts to school immediately, who wouldn't with Snow White as your teacher? Twelve-year-old Sabrina has a harder time adjusting; her teacher, Mr. Grumpner, lives up to his name, and the kids in her class aren't exactly friendly. Plus, she'd rather spend the time looking for her missing parents instead of being in school. But Sabrina's attention ...more

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Jun 20, 2008

Keira Van Beekum rated it

I read the first one and thought it was okay. I began the second one because all of my students really seemed to be enjoying the series and I had purchased the first two books in a set. This series is a lot of fun, although, it's not one I can't put down. With that said, I have to admit that upon finishing this book, I had to go out and buy the next one as Michael Buckley really leaves you hanging and extremely intrigued to find out what will happen next!

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Feb 18, 2009

Jennifer rated it

Shelves: children-and-young-adult-books

This one was even better than the first. It had me on the edge of my seat at times--these books have some very intense, action-packed moments--and then turn right around and make me laugh out loud.

I think the characters are very well written and fleshed out, be it Sabrina's understandable anger and frustration over how helpless she feels to save her parents or Puck's inherent and underlying goodness, which he tries he best to hide.

I also like the fact that the book teach...more

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Oct 23, 2011

06lindsays rated it

Shelves: book-reports

Lindsay Stratton Period 6 290 pages 9 points

Have you ever wanted to solve mysteries, meet fairy-tale characters and find clues to a family members disappearance. Then The Sisters Grimm: The Unusual Suspects is for you. And the best part is it's for all ages, old and young. As you read about strong and smart Sabrina and a happy and excited Daphne, and their Grandma, you get wrapped up in the story.
Still filled with anger over her paren'ts disappearance, Sabrina Grimm ...moreLindsay Stratton Period 6 290 pages 9 points

Have you ever wanted to solve mysteries, meet fairy-tale characters and find clues to a family members disappearance. Then The Sisters Grimm: The Unusual Suspects is for you. And the best part is it's for all ages, old and young. As you read about strong and smart Sabrina and a happy and excited Daphne, and their Grandma, you get wrapped up in the story.
Still filled with anger over her paren'ts disappearance, Sabrina Grimm and her sister Daphne along with their Granny Relda help solve the mystery of why her teacher at her school died. After different events happen, the Grimms find out about a plot that is happening amongst some of the Everafters in Ferryport Landing. Trying to help out, they soon find themselves in some trouble and in danger.
After reading this book, I had a few things that I liked and a few things that I didn't like about it. One thing that I liked was how there was magical creatures. "When his transformation was complete, he was hardly three feet high. His head, back, and arms were covered in kinky brown hair, but his face and pointed ears were pink like a pig's. He had a short, stubby tail, hoofed feet, and a couple of rows of sharp razor teeth." pgs. 263-264. One thing I didn't like about the book was the ending of it. "Suddenly, the monster swung its enormous arm at Sabrina, and then the room went black." pg. 290. The only reason I didn't like it was because it just let you hanging, wanting more. Also after reading this book, I came up with a few themes that you could relate to life, but one was always pay attention and remember to think and help others.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, magic, and fairy-tales because those are the key components to the story. I think what makes this book unique from other books out there, is that not every book lets you meet fairy-tale characters and not every book has a mystery within it. So readers, if you like adventure, mystery, and suspense, then The Unusual Suspects is the perfect book for you.

(less)

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Feb 01, 2012

Jenny rated it

Shelves: children-s-books

Listened to this on CD with my kids. Another great adventure with the Sisters Grimm. My kids can hardly wait to hear this each day in the car...in fact on a couple of occasions they have brought it inside and listened (once for more than an hour). Lots of action and adventure.

I do have 2 complaints. Number one is that it ends on a total cliffhanger which bugs me a bit. I prefer to have at least a bit of a resolution even if there are some loose ends that make you want to read the ...more

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Dec 16, 2010

Purplycookie rated it

Shelves: book-series, fairy-tale, fantasy, young-adult, mythic-fiction

In this second book in the series, Sabrina and Daphne continue their family's fairy-tale detective work in the Hudson River town of Ferryport Landing. The village has more than its share of Everafters, a group of fairy-tale characters who escaped persecution in Europe by fleeing to America over 200 years ago.

Here, the sisters start attending the local elementary school where the principal just happens to be the Pied Piper of Hamelin and Snow White is a most beloved teacher. Almost i...more

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Dec 22, 2009

Rachel rated it

(I listened to this on CD, and didn't read it straight from the book)
This was a fantastic book! I thought it was even better than the first one, which I also enjoyed. I don't gravitate toward books with a lot of name-calling for my kids (almost 9 and 6), but for some reason it doesn't bother me so much in this, because it's mostly done in a teasing way and hasn't encouraged my kids to start doing the same thing, as they already know what's appropriate to say and what isn't. It is a lot dar...more

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Jan 27, 2012

Deirdre rated it

When their parents disappear, sisters Sabrina (age 11) and Daphne (age 7) Grimm are sent to live with their grandmother. Soon after they discover they are descendants of the brothers Grimm, and must take on their family’s role as fairytale detectives. This series makes use of characters found in works from the Hans Christian Andersen to Shakespeare to create a story loaded with humour and adventure. While the protagonists of the series are female, there are interesting and mischievous male c...more

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Sep 21, 2011

Karissa Eckert rated it

This is the second book in the Grimm Sisters series by Buckley. I thought the first book was okay, but a bit weak in characterization and plot. This book was much better than the first book and I enjoyed it a lot more. I listened to this book on audiobook and the audiobook was well done. This narrator isn't my favorite but he does a good job of giving the characters distinct voices.

Daphne and Sabrina finally have to start school; they've been putting it off for as long as they can ...moreThis is the second book in the Grimm Sisters series by Buckley. I thought the first book was okay, but a bit weak in characterization and plot. This book was much better than the first book and I enjoyed it a lot more. I listened to this book on audiobook and the audiobook was well done. This narrator isn't my favorite but he does a good job of giving the characters distinct voices.

Daphne and Sabrina finally have to start school; they've been putting it off for as long as they can but if they don't start school soon their granny with get in trouble with Child Services. So off they go to school. Their first day of school is off to a bad start when Sabrina finds her homeroom teacher dead in the classroom wrapped in a giant web. Something is killing off members of the faculty and the kids at school are eternally sleepy. Sabrina suspects foul play from the Ever Afters; Sabrina, Daphne, and Granny Grimm have to wrap up this case before anyone else gets hurt.

The characters were better developed in this book than in the first. I felt like we got to see more depth to even the side characters like Prince Charming and Snow White. I still am not a big Sabrina fan; she is an angry and, at times, mean girl that I just don't like. It looks like Sabrina's bad attitude will be address in future books though. I enjoyed learning more about the characters, I really like Puck and Daphne and have high hopes for Sabrina in future books.

The plot was excellent, it was very much a fairy tale mystery. It is a twisty turny plot that is fun and keeps the reader engaged. I enjoyed the various fairy tale characters that popped up throughout the book and also enjoyed watching Sabrina and Daphne unravel the mystery.

One thing I really did not like was the absolutely obnoxious cliffhanger ending. The story in this book is very nicely wrapped up, but then another story is started and left in an absolutely horrible place with a "to be continued" added on. People who read my reviews know I hate this. I don't understand why an author can't draw readers just by writing a well-written book. Doing silly cliffhangers with obnoxious 'to be continued' statements is gimmicky and tacky and just plain annoying.

Overall I enjoyed this story more than the first book. I thought the character development was much better and loved all the fun fairy tale characters (Ever Afters) we bumped into throughout the story. The plot was twisty turny, fun to read and really kept me engaged. The fact that this book ends on an absolute cliffhanger annoyed me a lot. I don't understand why writers have to do that. I'll read the third book, The Problem Child, because I already have it on audiobook...if that one ends on another really obnoxious cliffhanger than I probably won't keep reading this series.(less)

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Apr 25, 2011

Jolie Kerenick rated it

My husband read this aloud to my 10 year old girls and me. It is a great read aloud book. There is some tongue in cheek humor, particularly related to some of the character names, that the kids missed that had my husband and I laughing out loud. We really enjoyed this as a family. I will admit that I fell asleep at times so I missed some parts but I really enjoy this series (this is the second in the series. my husband read the first aloud to us as well but it has been at least 2 years so I ...more

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Dec 27, 2011

Doris rated it

Often a second book in a series tends to be less than the previous. Not the case here!

In this second adventure of the youngest members of the Grimm clan, Sabrina and Daphne are off to a great start in keeping the fairytales quiet and controlled. During this story, they get to battle an escape attempt (the Foreverafters can't leave Ferryport) while attempting to meld with the normal children at school.

The younger sister, Daphne, enjoys her class and her teacher, but teh o...more

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Apr 18, 2011

Linda rated it

Since all the reviews seem to be in the positive, I guess that it must be just me who finds this book, the first one I've read of the Sisters Grimm series, a little bit slapstick stupid. I love the concept- a town where many of the inhabitants hide behind normal lives when they are actually characters from fairy tales and the two main protagonists, sisters and descendants of the Brothers Grimm who wrote the Fairy Tales, search for truth and justice but geez. Daphne, the 7 year-old sister acts mu...more

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Aug 23, 2009

Lacey Louwagie rated it

Recommends it for: fairy tale fans

Shelves: fairy-tales, fantasy, youngadultfantasy, youngadult

While the first book relied on its re-imagining of traditional fairy tale characters to hold my interest, the second book in the series has a plot strong enough to stand on its own. With the "introductions" and "setting of the stage" out of the way, the story starts moving much more quickly in this installment. In addition, "The Unusual Suspects" deepens Sabrina's character substantially, with her character development playing an integral role in the overall story a...more

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Jan 25, 2010

Carol rated it

Shelves: childrens, fantasy, read-with-a

Amber (10) and I read this together and both really enjoyed it. It’s a fun read, full of familiar fairytale characters whose lives have been re-imagined in the contemporary world.

We meet some more characters, including the Piper of Hamelin and Rumpelstiltskin, both of whose stories involve children being taken from their parents, you notice. Puck is a full-fledged member of the team now and the interactions between Sabrina and him are perfect given their ages.

Sabrina is...more

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Mar 13, 2010

Tobey rated it

· review of another edition

I started this series of preteen fairy tale detective novels because they were a big hit with my students and I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Essentially this series is Bill Willingham's Fables mixed with Jasper Fforde's Nursery Crimes and targeted at fourth and fifth graders. In fact, if I wanted to turn this review into a list of similarites between The Sisters Grimm and Fables I would be writing for quite some time. The New York State setting, Mayor Charming and his relationship ...more

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Dec 03, 2008

Jeff rated it

Shelves: fiction, kids-book, fantasy

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Jan 23, 2012

Elika added it

I chose the book “The Unusual Suspects” because it is the second book of The Sisters Grimm series. This book is about Sabrina and Daphne who are living with their grandmother in a city full of fairy-tale characters. Their parents disappeared one day and now they are trying to solve this mystery along with the mystery of Sabrina’s teacher’s death. My favorite quote in the story is “I won’t let another Christmas go by without you.” because it shows that Sabrina misses her parents and she wants to ...more

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Jun 30, 2010

Jenben8426 rated it

Shelves: kids-chapter-books, young-adult

It's only been three weeks since Sabrina and Daphne's world was turned upside down when they found out that they really weren't orphans, their parents are alive but trapped by some magical forces, they are descendants of the Brothers Grimm, and their duty is to help Everafter creatures get along with humans. Quite a lot to take in, especially when you have been chased by giants. In the second book, the girls head of to the Ferryport School where Snow White is a teacher, the principal is the P...more

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Jun 03, 2011

Justyn Rampa rated it

Shelves: childrens, fantasy, fairy-tale, series

Oh.

My.

God.

This book was SO good! Also, I'll just say that I didn't see the end coming at all! It is difficult to review this book without revealing spoilers. Most of my feelings remain true from my first review. I do think that Michael Buckley has definitely set himself apart from "Fables" in this second book. He also tackled some heavy issues such as prejudice and grief and the complicated relationships between children and their parents in this second ...more

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Mar 03, 2011

Elena rated it

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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May 02, 2010

icybytes rated it

Shelves: fiction, series

Sabrina and Daphne are off again! From their first adventures in THE FAIRY TALE DETECTIVES, the sisters are back, and now in school. And what a rambunctious school year it was! Sabrina has a horrible teacher, and Daphne has the famed Everafter, Snow White. Even worse, there are bullies, monsters, and PUCK becomes Sabrina's bodyguard! The excitement from the first book is replayed in THE UNUSUAL SUSPECTS, and there's more fun to be found. Buckley has once again caught many enthusiastic readers in...more

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Jul 01, 2009

Cheryl rated it

Sisters Sabrina and Daphne Grimm are forced to return to school or return to New York and a new foster home. For Sabrina the first day back is a nightmare, she must deal with bullies and horrible teachers. The day ends with Sabrina finding her homeroom teacher, Mr. Grumpner hanging from the ceiling wrapped in spider webs dead. A red handprint in on the chalkboard at the murder scene, it seems that the Scarlet Hand is mixed-up in school business. Once again Sabrina, Daphne, and Puck are on the...more

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Jun 24, 2010

Sukhmani rated it

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Aug 29, 2007

Rebecca (rem is me and im madly in love with gaara rated it

i read it as soon as i was told about it it was brill

like 1 like

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Dec 18, 2011

Jennifer rated it

Shelves: read-with-my-kid

More of the same--the sisters continue to battle mysterious fairytale opponents and hunt for their missing parents. My 3rd-grader would undoubtedly give the book 5 stars; she loves the series and wants the rest for Christmas. Points for making Snow White a master of self-defense who rescues Prince Charming instead of vice versa, but for me this is still a half-baked and somewhat tedious fantasy series. I’m tempted to knock it down to 1 star because of the ridiculous “To Be Continued” cliffhanger...more

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About Michael Buckley

New York Times bestselling author Michael Buckley was born in Akron, Ohio. He tried his hand as a stand-up comic and lead singer for a punk rock back before attending Ohio University. After graduating with honors he moved to New York City to be an intern on the Late Show with David Letterman which led to stints developing programming for Discovery Networks, MTV, MTV Animation and Klasky Csupo (pro...more

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Books by Michael Buckley

The Fairy-Tale Detectives (The Sisters Grimm, #1)

The Problem Child (The Sisters Grimm, #3)

Once Upon a Crime (The Sisters Grimm, #4)

Magic and Other Misdemeanors (The Sisters Grimm, #5)

Tales From the Hood (The Sisters Grimm, #6)

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“Please, don't hate me because I am beautiful.” — 40 people liked it

“Trickster, love will be the end of you.” — 26 people liked it

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