Ever since Daniel Grimm can remember, people have whispered that death follows him everywhere. Some even call him The Grimm Reaper. But after the harrowing tragedy that shattered his family, all Daniel wants is peace. Then on the ten-year anniversary of the Grimms' tragedy, Dr. Miguel Mortiz--Daniel's estranged godfather--reappears in his life after a long absence. Miguel is one of the few people alive who can bear Daniel's grief. After all, no one understands pain better than a healer.

Under the cloak of charisma and familial warmth, Miguel seems to have a shadow. Aunt Cass even urges Daniel to stay away from him. But against all warnings, he peels back the layers of grief and mystery until he discovers the dark, unthinkable secret about his godfather. Not only does this unlock the truth about the Grimms' untimely demise; it changes everything Daniel knows about life, death, fantasy, and reality. He may get everything he ever wanted. But there's a cost to holding the key, and some secrets should probably stay in the graveyard.