This is a response/suggestion based on a topic in reddit regarding these items. I wound up making a suggestion, so I thought I’d add it here too. Subject was about whether grims and tomes we’re am added value to Darktide.
Part of the problem is that they went from an interesting side quest to discover, to a downright ritual just for a better chance at rewards. They became mandatory for getting red items for crafting/loot. Extra challenges came from playing higher difficulty (on Cata it was rare to see someone grabbing books because reward wasn’t worth it, and the typical thought was cata was enough in and of itself), events in level, etc. Once the tomes and grims became a ritual it lost its appeal and was just means to an end.
I think the randomized locations are an interesting take, but they need to have more reason to be interacted with. I think adding a random boon for scriptures, or a decrease in boss health for monsters on grims. I’ll let the creatives chime in on lore friendly reasons. But items that take time investment to search for, are lost on death, etc should have more impact than just raising difficulty. It would add longevity to their being searched for in higher difficulties, provide more interaction with the level itself, and have a strategic purpose, as well as risk (boon may or may not be one you need?).
Just some thoughts I humbly submit to the Devs and Community. Be gentle with me.