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The Dirt on Ninth Grave (Charley Davidson #9) by Darynda Jones-a review

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THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE (Charley Davidson #9) by Darynda Jones-a review

The Dirt on Ninth Grave

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date January 12, 2015

In a small village in New York lives Jane Doe, a girl with no memory of who she is or where she came from. So when she is working at a diner and slowly begins to realize she can see dead people, she’s more than a little taken aback. Stranger still are the people entering her life. They seem to know things about her. Things they hide with lies and half-truths. Soon, she senses something far darker. A force that wants to cause her harm, she is sure of it. Her saving grace comes in the form of a new friend she feels she can confide in and the fry cook, a devastatingly handsome man whose smile is breathtaking and touch is scalding. He stays close, and she almost feels safe with him around.

But no one can outrun their past, and the more lies that swirl around her—even from her new and trusted friends—the more disoriented she becomes, until she is confronted by a man who claims to have been sent to kill her. Sent by the darkest force in the universe. A force that absolutely will not stop until she is dead. Thankfully, she has a Rottweiler. But that doesn’t help in her quest to find her identity and recover what she’s lost. That will take all her courage and a touch of the power she feels flowing like electricity through her veins. She almost feels sorry for him. The devil in blue jeans. The disarming fry cook who lies with every breath he takes. She will get to the bottom of what he knows if it kills her. Or him. Either way.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE is the ninth installment in Darynda Jones’s CHARLEY DAVIDSON urban fantasy series focusing on part time PI/ full time Grim Reaper Charley Davidson.

SOME BACKGROUND: This is the continuing story of Charley’s life as the Grim Reaper, the corporeal spirits who have yet to pass, and the man to whom she has pledged her undying love-the son of Satan-Reyes Farrow. Charley Davidson is the key to saving or destroying the world. If you have not read the previous installments there may be some spoilers.

Told from first person point of view (Charley) THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE is a bit of a departure from the series as our heroine wakes up in the small town of Sleepy Hollow with no memory of her past. The amnesia follows the heartbreaking events of EIGHTH GRAVE AFTER DARK and focuses on Charley through several weeks as she tries to come to terms with the ability to ‘see dead people’ and the loss of everything and everyone she has ever loved: Enter Reyes, Cookie, Uncle Bob (Ubie), Osh, Angel, Garrett and a host of others, dead people, and demons from her past who tread lightly in the path of the woman now known as Janey Doerr- a bumbling waitress at the Firelight Cafe who believes she is from the future. As Janey continues to search for the truth, our small band of family and friends keep an eye on the woman they love. Strawberry Shortcake and Artemis make a cameo appearance. And the local cop who saved ‘Janey Doerr’ has some nefarious plans for our broken heroine.

Throughout THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE we follow Charley ‘aka Janey’ as she endeavors to unravel a mystery involving the antique storeowner Mr.V and his missing family, as well as the infiltration of what appears to be the Russian Mob which in my opinion reads more like a ‘red herring’ that is irrelevant to the entire story and series but for all intents and purposes brings together several people from Charley’s past. Meanwhile, as per usual, Charley is visited by several corporeal beings who have yet to cross to the other side, in the hopes, of passing on a message to loved ones, or to help Charley in what it is she is supposed to do.

Darynda Jones continues to add her off-beat humor, sarcastic witticisms, and funny one-liners but because of Charley’s amnesia some of the humorous moments are few and far between as our heroine must come to terms with what she has lost-Janey ‘Charley’ knows that she has lost something fragile and small; someone she has left behind and spends the majority of the storyline feeling powerless and lost (herself). The relationship between Charley and Reyes is seductive and provocative as Reyes heats up the pages with his need and protectiveness of the woman he loves.

THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE is an intriguing but slow building installment that followed many paths to reveal a little more about Charley’s history-from the beginning of time-and why it is, so many gods, demons, fallen angels and angels are battling for control of Charley Davidson, but saying that, NINTH GRAVE did not reveal its’ purpose until the very end. We spent much of the storyline focusing on ‘Janey’s’ need to save the family across the street, and solve the mystery about one family’s numerous dying children. Charley’s true purpose is slowly revealing and with it comes the inevitable possibility that when the time comes, there will be many broken hearts and painful tears. Reyes knows that Charley must discover who she is without any assistance from the man that she loves, or the people in her life. But it is the loss of someone close that will aid Charley in the recovery of her memories, and all that she holds dear.

I will add, that at times, I kept thinking that part of the premise felt familiar-too familiar- that I was confusing it with another UF series, so much so, that I thought I was reading –ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN by Jennifer Estep. Jennifer’s heroine works at a diner frequented by all of her friends and supernatural beings, and is constantly investigating strange happenings in and around her small town (similarly to NINTH GRAVE). I love both Darynda Jones’s CHARLEY DAVIDSON and Jennifer Estep’s ELEMENTAL ASSASSIN series-a compliment to both authors.

If you are a fan and have read BOTH series, please let me know what you think after reading THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE-I can’t be the only reviewer who sees the similarities.

First Grave on the Right
Second Grave on the Left
Third Grave Straight Ahead
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
Fifth Grave Past The Light
Sixth Grave on the Edge
Seventh Grave and No Body
Eighth Grave After Dark
Brighter Than the Sun
The Dirt on Ninth Grave

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Eighth Grave After Dark (Charley Davidson #8) by Darynda Jones-a review

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EIGHTH GRAVE AFTER DARK (Charley Davidson #8) by Darynda Jones-a review

eighth-grave-after-dark. May 15jpg

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 19, 2015

With twelve hellhounds after her, pregnant Charley Davidson takes refuge at the only place she thinks they can’t get to her: the grounds of an abandoned convent. But after months of being cooped up there, Charley is ready to pop. Both metaphorically and literally since she is now roughly the size of a beached whale. Fortunately, a new case has captured her attention, one that involves a murder on the very grounds the team has taken shelter upon. A decades-old murder of the newly-vowed nun she keeps seeing in the shadows is almost enough to pull her out of her doldrums.

Charley’s been forbidden to step foot off the sacred grounds. While the angry hellhounds can’t traverse the consecrated soil, they can lurk just beyond its borders. They have the entire team on edge, especially Reyes. And if Charley didn’t know better, she would swear Reyes is getting sick. He grows hotter with every moment that passes, his heat scorching across her skin every time he’s near, but naturally he swears he’s fine.

While the team searches for clues on the Twelve, Charley just wants answers and is powerless to get them. But the mass of friends they’ve accrued helps. They convince her even more that everyone in her recent life has somehow been drawn to her, as though they were a part of a bigger picture all along. But the good feelings don’t last for long because Charley is about to get the surprise of her crazy, mixed-up, supernatural life….

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: EIGHTH GRAVE AFTER DARK is the eighth installment in Darynda Jones’s adult, urban fantasy Charley Davidson series focusing on part time PI/ full time grim reaper Charley Davidson. This is the continuing story of Charley’s life as the Grim Reaper, the corporeal spirits who have yet to pass, and the man to whom she has pledged her undying love-the son of Satan-Reyes Farrow. Lucifer has targeted Charley and her unborn daughter for termination using any means necessary including hellhounds and demons. The series should be read in order for cohesion and the ongoing history between Charley, Reyes and the end of the world.

NOTE: If you have not read the series, there will be some spoilers in my review.

Told from first person point of view (Charley Davidson) the storyline focuses on the wedding between Charley’s BFF and assistant Cookie, and Ubie (Charley’s Uncle Bob) and, the impending birth of Charley and Reyes daughter. While Charley prepares for her best friend’s nuptials, a missing persons case is brought to Charley’s attention with the belief that Charley’s special abilities are necessary to solve the case. The problem-Charley and Reyes have taken up residence in a former convent believing the Hounds of Hell can’t enter the sacred grounds and Charley is unable to cross the perimeter without placing her life in danger. And of course, Charley comes across the spirit of a young nun who hasn’t been able to crossover, in the hopes of finding someone to solve her murder and the case of her missing sister.

EIGHT GRAVE AFTER DARK is a revealing storyline where the true purpose of several secondary and supporting characters comes to fruition including the perpetually silent Mr. Wong and the twelve sent. The notion of the ‘twelve sent and the twelve summoned’ is partially revealed, and with it, my belief that throughout the series, some of the reluctant spirits and supernatural beings who have stayed behind and attached themselves to Charley, have a larger purpose in Charley’s life than fodder for one liners and the bane of Charley’s existence. I suspect the series will reveal a few more ‘spirits’ and guardians whose purpose is to defend and protect the ‘daughter’ in the upcoming war.

The ensemble cast of characters includes many of the previously introduced spirits, ghosts, demons, and one particularly sexy biker dude. Osh returns as protector but his connection to Charley goes much deeper; Angel keeps secret Reyes plans for the future; Rocket announces the impending death of someone we all know and hate. Charley’s sister Gemma and step-mother Denise play a much larger role than in the past but a role that is not high on Charley’s list of things to do or forgive. Garrett Swopes continues to decipher the ancient prophecies, while Strawberry Shortcake pops in with little bits of information. Cookie’s daughter Amber’s role in Charley’s life has yet to be revealed, but this powerful little teenager is more than just a pretty face and gaming nerd with her bestie Quentin. Artemis returns as our favorite supernatural canine.

Our heroine will continue to place herself in danger and with it comes the anger and ire of her beloved Reyes. There are secrets between our leading couple; secrets that could prove dangerous and deadly, but Charley and Reyes do not confide with one another-there is an aura of mistrust and misunderstanding.

Darynda Jones continues to use humor, amazing one-liners, sexual innuendo, euphemisms and sarcasm throughout the storyline. Once again, each chapter is introduced with a t-shirt slogan, meme or bumper sticker pointing out that all is not running smoothly in Charley’s life. The friendship between Charley and Cookie continues to be amazing; and Charley’s love for Reyes Farrow is all encompassing and forever. We could all do with a little heat and fire in our lives.

EIGHTH GRAVE AFTER DARK is a character driven storyline where everyone has a purpose and place in Charley’s life- said purposes and places are finally being revealed. Many questions will be answered; some have yet to be addressed; and in the end, Charley and Reyes’s must make a heartbreaking decision that will affect them all. . You can’t go wrong with a little Darynda Jones and Charley Davidson in your life.

Series Reading Order and Previous Reviews
First Grave on the Right
Second Grave on the Left
Third Grave Straight Ahead
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
Fifth Grave Past The Light
Sixth Grave on the Edge
Seventh Grave and No Body
Eighth Grave After Dark

Copy supplied by St.Martin’s Publishing through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Seventh Grave and No Body (Charley Davidson 7) by Darynda Jones-Review and Blog Tour

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Seventh Grave and No Body (Charley Davidson 7) by Darynda Jones-Review and Blog Tour

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Seventh Grave and No Body
Charley Davidson #7
by Darynda Jones
Genre: adult, contemporary, UF, paranormal
Release Date:

Seventh Grave and no Body Oct 14

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 21, 2014

Twelve. Twelve of the deadliest beasts ever forged in the fires of hell have escaped onto our plane, and they want nothing more than to rip out the jugular of Charley Davidson and serve her lifeless, mangled body to Satan for dinner. So there’s that. But Charley has more on her plate than a mob of testy hellhounds. For one thing, her father has disappeared, and the more she retraces his last steps, the more she learns he was conducting an investigation of his own, one that has Charley questioning everything she’s ever known about him. Add to that an ex-BFF who is haunting her night and day, a rash of suicides that has authorities baffled, and a drop-dead sexy fiancé who has attracted the attentions of a local celebrity, and Charley is not having the best week of her life.

A tad north of hell, a hop, skip, and a jump past the realm of eternity, is a little place called Earth, and Charley Davidson, grim reaper extraordinaire, is determined to do everything in her power to protect it.

We’re doomed.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY is the seventh installment in Darynda Jones’s adult, contemporary Charley Davidson UF series focusing on part time PI/full time Grim Reaper Charley Davidson. This is the continuing story of Charley’s life as the Grim Reaper, the corporeal spirits who have yet to pass, and the man to whom she has pledged her undying love-the son of Satan-Reyes Farrow. The series should be read in order for cohesion and the ongoing history between Charley and Reyes.

Told from first person POV (Charley) the focus of the storyline follows Charley as she is called in to help investigate a series of ten year old unsolved murders. Meanwhile, not only has Charley been targeted for extermination by Satan himself but someone has sent twelve hellhounds to make sure the job gets done. When a young sixteen year old girl is murdered, Charley is asked by the recently deceased herself, to track down her missing body. With the number of cases building, Charley continues to place herself in danger at every opportunity. Reyes is NOT a happy camper when he discovers that Charley has risked their future for the sake of someone else.

The relationship between Reyes and Charley is one of undying love, ordained by hell, and soul mated by birth. Reyes has waited thousands of years for Charley’s arrival and he isn’t about to lose Charley to the demons of hell. Their sexual chemistry is explosive; provocative and intense. But Reyes sex appeal does not go unnoticed and a local reporter aims her sights at Mr. Farrow.

SEVENTH GRAVE is a storyline that advances the series but a few days. Charley’s father is still missing; Uncle Bob (Ubie) is in a relationship with Charley’s BFF Cookie; and Reyes is more determined to protect Charley than ever before. Enter the Dealer-a demon known as ‘Osh’-and Charley has a veritable army of supernatural beings hoping to keep her alive while an even more powerful and larger army is hoping to take her down. As Charley’s powers slowly reveal themselves, she will discover that she is more god-like in potential and talent then ever before.

As per Darynda’s writing style, SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY is packed full of sarcastic whit, one liners, sexual innuendo, euphemisms and character asides. Each chapter is introduced using ‘bumper stickers logos’ or ‘t-shirt quotes’ adding an even more humorous element to the story. Cookie and Charley play off of one another like yin and yang-a veritable game of table tennis of the mind.

The secondary characters and regulars, including human and spirit alike, add a familiarity to the storyline as each adds their own charm and finesse to Charley’s life. Angel (Charley’s perpetually thirteen year old spirit assistant) and Rocket (a deceased savant who tracks every death in the world) add mystery and reveal a little more information about Charley’s purpose on earth. Mr. Wong’s identity-although his role has yet to be completely determined– is a constant spiritual presence in Charley’s apartment, and one that may have a larger role in the upcoming installments. Mr.Wong’s purpose in the series is painstakingly slow to reveal with only a hint of what is to come.

With every storyline, Charley begins to amass a following of the recently deceased that assist Charley in one way or another. Not only do these spirits refuse to move forward but they remain behind to help Charley in any way they can. SEVENTH GRAVE adds one more ghost to Charley’s fan club.

Darynda Jones is an amazingly, talented author whose imagination grows with each installment. There are moments of humor and sorrow; heartbreak and love; mystery and suspense. My only complaint is the slow reveal of everyone’s purpose (including Charley) in the series. There are so many secrets that have yet to be revealed. The true nature of Charley’s predestination is the biggest secret of all.
Charley Davidson Series

Reading Order and Links to Reviews:
First Grave on the Right
Second Grave on the Left
Third Grave Dead Ahead
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
Fifth Grave Past The Light
Sixth Grave on the Edge
Seventh Grave and No Body

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

 

I set Cookie to finding out everything she could on the missing suicide-note victims. There had to be a connection between them somewhere in their pasts. In the meantime, I would go talk to their closests, but first I needed to know if the victims were still alive. If they’d been abducted, this would quickly become a much different case. We would probably have to get the FBI involved, if they weren’t on to it already.
Reyes was still working, so I decided to cut out alone. I knew he’d freak. He wasn’t about to leave me alone for long, and neither would he put up with my running off without him, so I decided to pick up a passenger. Well, another passenger. The one I had at the moment would be of no help in a fight against hounds from hell, should they spot me in a crowd.
Jessica was harping again, this time about how her friends were at the restaurant, fawning over Reyes as though she had never died. She’d called dibs the moment she saw him, and they seemed almost relieved she was out of the way. I refrained from reminding her that (1) I’d had dibs long before that, and (2) she was as dead as the Twizzler I was gnawing on in an attempt to forget about my extreme caffeine depletion. Poor little Twizzler.
“She said that!” Jessica shouted. “Like, she said it. Right to Reyes’s face.”
“Wait, what?” I almost slammed on the brakes, then realized my foot was already on the brake, as we were idling at a stoplight. “Who said what to Reyes’s face?”
“Oh . . . my god. Have you heard a word I’ve said?”
“Not especially. Who said what?”
“She said she’d do anything, any . . . thing, for an interview.”
I turned to her. “Are you telling me you heard what Reyes and Jolene—I mean, that hooch—were talking about?”
“Duh. I was so upset with Joanie and the girls that I started to walk out when that—that ho practically assaulted our man.”

 

 

7thGraveAudio copy
 

 

About the author


Darynda JonesFollow: Website / Facebook / Twitter /Goodreads

NYTimes and USA Today Bestselling Author Darynda Jones has won numerous awards for her work, including a prestigious Golden Heart®, a Rebecca, two Hold Medallions, a RITA ®, and a Daphne du Maurier, and she has received stellar reviews from dozens of publications including starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, and the Library Journal. As a born storyteller, Darynda grew up spinning tales of dashing damsels and heroes in distress for any unfortunate soul who happened by, annoying man and beast alike, and she is ever so grateful for the opportunity to carry on that tradition. She currently has two series with St. Martin’s Press: The Charley Davidson Series and the Darklight Trilogy. She lives in the Land of Enchantment, also known as New Mexico, with her husband of almost 30 years and two beautiful sons, the Mighty, Mighty Jones Boys. She can be found at www.daryndajones.com.

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Sixth Grave on the Edge (Charley Davidson #6) by Darynda Jones-a review

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SIXTH GRAVE ON THE EDGE (Charley Davidson #6) by Darynda Jones-a review

Sixth Grave on the Edge May 14

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 20 2014

Few things in life can come between a grim reaper and her coffee, but the sexy, sultry son of Satan is one of them. Now that Reyes Farrow has asked for her hand, Charley Davidson feels it’s time to learn more about his past, but Reyes is reluctant to open up. When the official FBI file of his childhood abduction lands in her lap, Charley decides to go behind her mysterious beau’s back and conduct her own investigation. Because what could go wrong?

Unfortunately, another case has fallen into her lap—one with dangerous implications. Some very insistent men want Charley to hunt down a witness who is scheduled to testify against their boss, a major player in the local crime syndicate. If Charley doesn’t come up with an address in 48 hours, the people closest to her will start to disappear.

Add to that a desperate man in search of the soul he lost in a card game, a dogged mother determined to find the ghost of her son, and a beautiful, young Deaf boy haunted by his new ability to see the departed as clearly as he sees the living, and Charley has her hands full. The fact that Reyes has caught on to her latest venture only adds fuel to the inferno that he is. Good thing for Charley she’s used to multi-tasking and always up for a challenge…especially when that challenge comes in the form of Reyes Farrow.

••••••••••••••••••••

REVIEWS: SIXTH GRAVE ON THE EDGE is the sixth instalment in Darynda Jones’s paranormal/UF Charley Davidson series focusing on grim reaper Charlotte (Charley) Davidson. As with all of the Charley Davidson storylines we find our heroine the target of more than one being-some demonic, some corrupt, many dead but all wanting something in the end. Told from first person POV (Charley) SIXTH GRAVE advances the series but a few days.

There are several focuses in the storyline including a man who lost his soul in a game of cards and Charley’s dogged determination to uncover the truth about Reyes’s past. She knows some of the ugly details of his childhood but she will set her sights on the people she believes gave birth to the Son of Satan. When Reyes demands that she stop her investigation, Charley’s inquiring mind doesn’t necessarily want to hear the story behind the story.

We will be introduced to the Dealer-a demon from Hell who knows more about Charley’s predestination than Reyes has revealed. The Dealer offers up ‘a deal’ to those in need but his price is steep and beyond what most people can pay. Charley is drawn to the Dealer if for no other reason than to learn the truth about who and what she has been ‘born’ to do.

Angel, Charley’s forever thirteen year old ghostly assistant, will have a more active role in this particular storyline. We will learn the truth about his death and the woman who wants to know if her son is still on this plane of existence. Some stories are harder to tell and Angel’s story is one that has been building since book one.

Cookie is her usual manic self-from the brains behind Charley’s PI investigations to the woman who has fallen for Charley’s Uncle Bob, Cookie is a one woman power house who plays off of Charley’s natural sarcastic banter-a perfect combination in any storyline or series. When Charley sets up a series of dates for the voluptuous assistant, Ubie (or Uncle Bob) becomes suspicious when he recognizes one of the men with whom Cookie has been paired.

SIXTH GRAVE ON THE EDGE is not as dark as some of the previous instalments. Charley’s knack for putting herself into dangerous situations continues but any near death experiences will not result in weeks to months of rehabilitation as in the past. Charley has yet to say YES to Reyes proposal and he is a man possessed to make Charley his wife and his own.

The relationship between Reyes and Charley is imaginative, erotic and arousing-psychic sensuality is something we should all strive to achieve. Reyes is the epitome of sex; his allure is far reaching but he is intensely captivated by only one woman-a woman who was made especially for him.

The ending and revelation were not unexpected for this reader but it was a definite twist in the storyline development. When the prophecies have decreed that the Twelve Hounds from Hell will destroy Charley, there is another Twelve waiting to protect the daughter they have all been waiting to see.

Darynda Jones writes from the heart with humor, sarcasm, an astonishing concept of friendship and a brilliant mind. The Charley Davidson series is a phenomenal UF/paranormal series that focuses on a kick-a$$ heroine who knows there are limitations to her powers but has yet to reach her ordained levels prescribed in the hierarchy of all things supernatural and decreed.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Fifth Grave Past The Light (Charley Davidson #5) by Darynda Jones-a review

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FIFTH GRAVE PAST THE LIGHT (Charley Davidson #5) by Darynda Jones

Fifth Grave Past the Light

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 9, 2013

Charley Davidson may not look like your everyday, run-of-the-mill grim reaper, but she has vowed to reap grimness wherever she goes despite this unfortunate fact. Sadly, she gets sidetracked when the sexy, sultry son of Satan, Reyes Farrow, moves in next door. As he is the main suspect in her arson case, she is determined to stay away from him until she can find out the truth. According to her therapist, however, she lacks conviction.

When dead women start appearing in her apartment – lost, confused and terrified beyond reason – Charley has no choice but to ask for Reyes’s help, especially when it becomes apparent that her own sister Gemma is the serial killer’s next target. With his ability to observe incorporeally, surely he can find out who’s responsible. And even if he can’t, he is the one man alive who could protect Gemma no matter who or what came at her. But he wants something in return: Charley. All of her – body and soul. And to keep her sister safe, it is a price she is willing to pay…

••••••••••••••••••••

Charley Davidson Series

REVIEW: FIFTH GRAVE PAST THE LIGHT is the fifth installment in Darynda Jones’s paranormal/UF/romance/contemporary Charley Davidson series featuring twenty-something Charley Davidson-part time PI/part time grim reaper/ and full time love of Reyes Farrow-the son of Satan. Like all of the previous installments, Fifth Grave is jammed packed with humor, sarcasm, witty one-liners, t-shirt slogans, bumper stickers, murder, revenge and of course, more sex and romance with Reyes Alexander Farrow.

Fifth Grave Past the Light reveals plenty of information and answers some of our questions about the mysterious map and the key, both of which are believed to be residing on earth, awaiting their destiny. But the story surrounding the key to the map reveals the destruction of the world and in this, the truth may be stranger than fiction and the person who revealed the information is someone who has been to hell and back-literally and figuratively. He has the inside information from both Satan and his son.

Once again, Charley’s private life will be invaded by a series of spirits-twenty seven to be exact- who are drawn to her light as the grim reaper but for some reason, none of the woman are willing to move on until Charley uncovers the truth behind their murders. And it will take one small, young spirit, not much older than seven or eight to help reveal the person who may be the only one able to identify the person responsible. And in this particular case, he has a connection to Charley and her family. Oh, and someone recognizes Mr. Wong in the corner of Charley’s apartment. Let’s hope his presence and identity is finally revealed.

Cookie and Uncle Bob return as Charley’s confidants and aids. And Charley will need Ubie more than she ever thought possible when the person she was hired to tail turns out to be more dangerous than she had ever suspected.

Charley’s abilities come into question when local authorities take a look at her unbelievable record of solving cold case files and crimes. And the latest cold case to come across her desk is frighteningly familiar and heartbreaking.

The relationship between Reyes and Charley is romantic, sensual, hot and well worth the wait. Reyes, as the son of Satan, has never known love but he has found his soul mate in Charley Davidson-the one woman who is capable of putting out the fire that burns within. The romance sparks within the story as Reyes makes his feelings known to Charley and for him to make them a permanent couple will take some tricky dialogue and promises on both of their parts. Reyes is the epitome of sex on a stick; the ultimate lover and sensual male; he oozes sex appeal by virtue of his looks and presence; and it is Charley Davidson-the grim reaper who will capture his heart and his soul-forever.

Fifth Grave Past the Light is one of the best installments in the series thus far. I am still hoping that Darynda gives some life to Donovan and the Bandits and writes a series or at the very least, a series of novellas so that the reader can be kept up to date on their travels. Angel, Rocket, Garret Swopes, Gemma and Leland Davidson all play pivotal roles throughout the story. And the ending comes with a couple of surprises and not the least is the possibility of a new direction for Charley and Reyes.

Darynda Jones takes an UF/paranormal storyline and adds her sarcastic wit and humor as she pushes her series into another direction. The humor, the sensuality and the action filled storyline make this a must read for anyone who wants it all in the stories they read. Charley Davidson is a heroine who is strong yet feminine; heroic yet vulnerable; loved and yet hated by those she seeks to reveal. Fifth Grave Past the Light is an amazing and fascinating installment in Darynda Jones’s Charley Davidson series.

Reading Order: Click on the link to read our review

First Grave on the Right
Second Grave on the Left
Third Grave Dead Ahead
Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet
Fifth Grave Past the Light

Reviewed by Sandy

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Darynda Jones Prize Package Giveaway

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Darynda Jones Prize Package Giveaway

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Our FINAL One Year Anniversary giveaway prize package has been graciously donated by DARYNDA JONES. Darynda has donated the first three books in her Charley Davidson series: First Grave on the Right/ Second Grave on the Left/Third Grave Dead Ahead.

ONE giveaway winner will receive SIGNED COPIES of all three paper books from Darynda Jones.

Click HERE for Darynda Jones’ Website.

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TO ENTER: Giveaway open to 18 years of age and older

NOTE: Register at The Reading Cafe using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter or Facebook etc, please post your email address with your comment, as Twitter etc does not account for email contact.

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Darynda Jones-Interview with the Author

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DARYNDA JONES-Interview with the Author

With the release of TWO upcoming novels-FOURTH GRAVE BENEATH MY FEET and DEATH AND THE GIRL NEXT DOOR (new YA series), The Reading Cafe would like to welcome the amazing Darynda Jones.

TRC: Hi Darynda and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the amazing success of your Charley Davidson series and the new release FOURTH GRAVE BENEATH MY FEET and your new Young Adult series DEATH AND THE GIRL NEXT DOOR.

Darynda: Thank you!!!! And thank you so much for having me here today!

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Darynda: Absolutely! My name is Darynda Jones and I write the Charley Davidson series, a paranormal mystery/urban fantasy story about a female private investigator who was born the grim reaper, and like Charley, I live in New Mexico. Sadly, I am amazingly boring. I try to be cool, but it just doesn’t happen. I love to read. I love to write. I have two beautiful sons who are both taller than I am now. I have a degree in sign language interpreting (my oldest son was born Deaf) and was an interpreter for many years. I have been married longer than most of your readers have been alive and I’ve been writing forever. I sold my debut book, First Grave on the Right, in 2009.

TRC: Many authors develop their love of writing at an early age. What was the catalyst that sparked your interest in writing?

Darynda: I have been writing since I was a kid. Even before I could read and I’d pick up a stick and pretend to write a story. I was never a drawer like all my friends. When I doodled in the margins of my papers, I wrote words that I loved. I didn’t know I wanted to BE a writer until I was in Jr. High School. While not everything I write is strictly romance, everything I write has a strong romantic subplot, so yes. I love romance. There simply must be some kind of romance in every story I write.

TRC: FOURTH GRAVE BENEATH MY FEET is the most recent release (October 30 2012) in the Charley Davidson series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

LINKS TO PRE-ORDER
Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes and Noble / Books a Million

Darynda: Sure! Here is the blurb.

Sometimes being the grim reaper really is that. Grim. And since Charley’s last case went so awry, she has taken a couple months off to wallow in the wonders of self-pity. But when a woman shows up on her doorstep convinced someone is trying to kill her, Charley has to force herself to rise above. Or at least get dressed. She quickly realizes something is amiss when everyone the woman knows swears she’s insane. The more they refute the woman’s story, the more Charley believes it.

In the meantime, the sexy, sultry son of Satan, Reyes Farrow, has been cleared of all charges. He is out of prison and out of Charley’s life, as per her wishes and several perfectly timed death threats. But his absence has put a serious crimp in her sex life. While there are other things to consider, like the fact that the city of Albuquerque has been taken hostage by an arsonist, Charley is having a difficult time staying away. Especially when it looks like Reyes may be involved. Just when life was returning to normal, Charley is thrust back into the world of crime, punishment, and the devil in blue jeans.

TRC: Your sense of humor and use of sarcasm throughout the Charley Davidson series is one of the major attractions. Have you always had a sense of humor or is it something that developed out of necessity?

Darynda: People who are naturally witty have always amazed me. I always wanted to be the person who has a joke on the tip of her tongue, a comeback for any occasion. Sadly, that’s not me. I’m not that funny in person, but for some reason, I am much better at it while writing. I’m no Ellen Degeneres, unfortunately, but I hold my own in the written world.

TRC: The relationship between Charley and Cookie is very close and very real. What is the inspiration behind their friendship and bantering? Is there a Cookie in your life?

Darynda: Oh, don’t I wish! Everyone should have a Cookie. And if I ever find one, I’m going to kidnap her and force her to do research and go to the post office for me. LOL. As far as inspiration, I do have some very close friends who have taught me a lot about true friendship, and I watch a lot of sitcoms. 🙂

TRC: Are the characters in the series, based on people you know or have met in your life e.g. Cookie or Ubie?

Darynda: Cookie was physically based on a friend of mine. I will do that sometimes, just for a reference for physical characteristics. I like to combine people too. Like maybe the physical traits of someone combined with the sense of humor from someone else. Ubie is physically based on a former employer.

TRC: Rayaziel (Reyes) Alexander Farrow for all of his faults and evil heritage is one of the sexiest and sensual male characters. What do you think is his appeal to your readers?

Darynda: I think he is so hot partly because he is so dark and mysterious, but partly because he has had a very hard life as a human, and that makes him even more appealing. He has been abused and has flaws, but through it all he has loved Charley and protected her the best he could. That makes him a hero despite his dark side. I think the difficult part is making him hot, sexy, angry, and yet vulnerable all at the same time. Reyes is an alpha, so he is smart, tough, sexy as hell, and yes rough around the edges, but his vulnerabilities, namely his love and devotion to Charley, creates that soft spot in our hearts. We all want someone who, if we run up to him crying, takes one look at us and says, “Whose ass do I have to kick?”

 

TRC: The image of Reyes on your blogsite is an amazing representation. Do you know the name of the model who posed for that particular picture?

Darynda: Again, I wish! He is absolutely perfect!

TRC: If you could virtually cast the major players in the Charley Davidson series, which models or actors would best portray the characters (in your opinion)?

Darynda: There are so many actresses I could see playing Charley, oddly enough, but Reyes is much harder. I originally based him on Jason Behr. He has become darker and rougher than my original image, but I still think Jason could play him. He is an actor with a wide range of acting abilities. I could definitely see Melissa McCarthy as Cookie and Jim Beaver as Uncle Bob. Oh! And Shemar Moore or Columbus Short as Garrett Swopes.

TRC: Um…Donovan (sigh)….another bad boy with a very strong presence in the storyline? Have you considered writing a series around Donovan and The Bandits?

Darynda: Not until about five seconds ago. Now my head is buzzing with ideas. LOL! I do love me some Donovan.

TRC: The character of Quentin is a young teen who is deaf. Is your son the inspiration behind Quentin? And if so, does he have an opinion about the direction of this particular part of the storyline?

Darynda: Deep down inside, he is probably very much the inspiration, although I named the character after my little (he is 6’ 2”) brother. But he definitely has my son’s mannerisms, deep yet soft voice when he uses it, and beautiful blue eyes. When I told him I had a Deaf character in the book, my son just said, “Cool.”

TRC: What do you have planned for the next installment in the Charley Davidson series?

Darynda: Right now I’m working on book five, Fifth Grave Past the Light. I’m hoping, with all my fingers and toes crossed, to be able to pull off a few truly creepy scenes. I want this book to be a bit scarier, especially since the first books weren’t scary at all. Keeping that in mind, surely I can make this one stand out.

Basically, Charley is invaded by the ghosts of women who were murdered by a serial killer. It gets pretty creepy in her apartment, as they tend to scurry under her bed and across her ceiling at all hours of the night. Fun!

 

TRC: DEATH AND THE GIRL NEXT DOOR is the first book in your new Young Adult DARKLIGHT series. Would you please tell us something about the series?

LINKS TO ORDER
Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository / Books a Million

Darynda: Death and the Girl Next Door is about sophomore Lorelei MacAlister. Ten years ago,Lorelei’s parents disappeared without a trace. Raised by her grandparents and leaning on the support of her best friends, Lorelei is finally beginning to accept the fact that her parents are never coming home. Life goes on and is as normal as can be until a new guy—terrifying, tough, sexy Jared Kovach—comes to school and he seems to have a specific interest in Lorelei, something that never happens. To complicate matters even further, the school’s designated loner, Cameron Lusk, begins to stalk her, turning up where she least expects it, standing outside her house in the dark, night after night. Jared and Cameron instantly despise each other and Lorelei seems to be the reason for their animosity. What does Jared know about her parents? Why does Cameron tell Jared he can’t have Lorelei? And what will any of them do when Death comes knocking for real?

TRC: There are certain unwritten guidelines for writing Young Adult storylines but sometimes the lines blur, especially knowing many of the readers are adults. Where do you think the lines should be drawn as it pertains to sex and violence (graphic or otherwise) in young adult storylines?

Darynda: I think, as with any book, those elements should fit the story. They should never be gratuitous. I personally draw the line at sex, but only because I think in YA it would be gratuitous in almost any form. Violence, as long as it’s not completely graphic, is okay because it’s in everything we see on TV and in the movies. But again, that’s just my opinion. It totally depends on the story. Admittedly, I have fight scenes in my YA’s that are pretty violent. And there is, of course, sexual tension to the Nth degree throughout.

TRC: DEATH DOOM AND DETENTION is the second storyline (release date 2013). Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Darynda: Sure! The normal part of Lorelei MacAlister’s life didn’t just slip away quietly the day Jared Kovach came to town. Nope. The normal part of her life shattered. It exploded. It burst into a gazillion shards of fleeting light. It went out with a bang. Goodbye normal. Hello dark and eerie. While her best friend, Brooklyn, is focusing all of her energy on helping Lorelei hone her abilities, Lorelei is dealing with the reality that Satan’s second in command has taken up residence inside her body. Oh, and the fact that she has a crush on the Angel of Death. But what a beautiful death it is. If those weren’t bad enough, something sinister has come to town and it wants nothing more than to hear Lorelei’s dying breath as it strangles it out of her. Thank goodness the gang has a supernatural champion. But what happens when the only being who can save them switches sides midstream? How can a group of misfits capture one of the most powerful beings ever created? And will they find out how to bring Jared back to them before it’s too late?

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Darynda: The Darklight Series is a Trilogy, so just the three.

TRC: Writers Block is a very real phenomenon for many authors. How do you handle the stress and anxiety of writers block?

Darynda: If I get stuck, I have learned that it means something is inherently wrong with my manuscript. I force myself to step back and take a look deeper look at it. Oddly enough, it’s almost always something with my hero. They are so cantankerous. Or there’s something wrong with the story itself. Something just isn’t quite working and I know that deep down inside.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas with other authors, friends or family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Darynda: Um, pretty much anyone who will listen. My sister is fantastic for bouncing around ideas, and my critique goddess, Tammy Baumann, as well as friends and even my husband’s family. They come over on Saturday nights. They are like hostages to my whims. Hehehe

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Darynda: Well, I just finished rewrites for the second in the Darklight Trilogy, Death,Doom and Detention. Now it’s on to Fifth Grave Past the Light, the fifth in the Charley Davidson series. I also have three other series started, but I’m trying to focus. Not easy when you really do have ADD. 🙂

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Darynda: Just a big fat thank you!!!! I am thrilled to be here!

LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite Food Anything Mexican

Favorite Dessert Cheesecake

Favorite TV Show Buffy forever!

Favorite Movie Pride and Prejudice

Last Movie You Saw Men in Black III (LOVED!)

Dark or Milk Chocolate Dark

Coffee or Tea Coffee

Last Vacation Destination Vegas

TRC: Thank you Darynda for taking the time to answer our questions. Your Charley Davidson series is one of my favorite series because of your humor and the sarcastic one on one banter between the characters. Congratulations on both of your new releases. We are looking forward to a continued friendship with all of your characters.

Darynda: Squee! Thank YOU!

You can follow Darynda at:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads

Darynda is giving away one copy of her new YA novel DEATH AND THE GIRL NEXT DOOR.

Please click HERE for the rafflecopter and The Reading Cafe giveaways.

The Reading Cafe is offering a SECOND giveaway. Everyone who posts a comment on the Blog Tour Giveaway or the INTERVIEW with Darynda Jones will be entered into a SECOND giveaway for a copy of DEATH AND THE GIRL NEXT DOOR.

The Reading Cafe GIVEAWAY is OPEN to anywhere THE BOOK DEPOSITORY delivers.

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