Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3)

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Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3)

by Darynda Jones (Goodreads Author)

4.42 of 5 stars 4.42 · rating details · 8,600 ratings · 1,206 reviews

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third installment of Darynda Jones' award-winning paranormal series that's "hilarious and heartfelt, sexy and surprising." (J.R. Ward)

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back! And she's drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes F...more

Hardcover, 310 pages

Published January 31st 2012 by St. Martin's Press

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Upcoming Fantastika 2012

7th out of 203 books — 107 voters

First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones

Second Grave on the Left by Darynda Jones

Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet by Darynda Jones

Grim Reaper themes

4th out of 83 books — 62 voters

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Community Reviews

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Feb 10, 2012 Dija rated it 4 of 5 stars

Recommended to Dija by: The cover

Shelves: jan-2012, childhood-friends-turned-lovers, lollercoaster, uf-or-pnr, my-harem, read-in-2012, my-reviews

The UF genre needs more series like Charley Davidson, and more heroines like Charley. Series like this are the reason I became obsessed with the genre in the first place. Series that make me seriously entertain the thought of an alternate world out there, one where ~~the Son of Satan~~ grim reapers, werewolves, vampires, angels, and the whole lot run free. I've always considered a healthy belief in "What if's" to be essential for one's mental growth, so no, I'm not at all concerned about my sanity a...more

25 likes · like · see review

Mar 01, 2013 ♠ Sharon is an emotional book junkie ♠ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2013

This whole book made me sleepy...well, except some of the Reyes scenes!! The problem is Charley is refusing to sleep and things are getting pretty crazy. Every time she goes to sleep, Reyes shows up and he is angry. Granted he wants her but he doesn't want to want her and Charley doesn't like that. Who can blame her?

I'm not sure what it is about this series but it has sucked me in. I love all the snark, I love how dangerous and angry Reyes is, I love how crazy Garrett is and how sweet Cookie is...more

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Jan 25, 2012 Giselle rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, own, adult, paranormal

"Death comes to those who wait. And to those who don't. So either way…"

I could never get tired of our dear Charley Davidson. First Grave on the Right and Second Grave on the Left were both incredibly funny and smart. Third Grave Dead Ahead is no exception. It only took about 10 pages for me to be falling off my chair laughing.

The plot in Third Grave Dead Ahead is similar to the others. Charley gets a case; trying to find a missing person, while dealing with Reyes and the other pain in the butt...more "Death comes to those who wait. And to those who don't. So either way…"

I could never get tired of our dear Charley Davidson. First Grave on the Right and Second Grave on the Left were both incredibly funny and smart. Third Grave Dead Ahead is no exception. It only took about 10 pages for me to be falling off my chair laughing.

The plot in Third Grave Dead Ahead is similar to the others. Charley gets a case; trying to find a missing person, while dealing with Reyes and the other pain in the butt men in her life. The mystery behind the case isn't particularly hard to decipher. I had most of it figured out well before the end. But this book isn't to be read for the suspense behind the plot; read this for the incredible characters and especially entertaining dialogue. Don't get me wrong, the case is still fun, but the characters make the show.

I can't say enough about the personalities in this series. Charley is, as always, witty, sarcastic and incredibly hilarious. I love how she takes everything lightly in grave situations. It doesn't only get her into trouble, it also makes her brave - which is a must for a PI. And don't fret, Danger and Will also make a few appearances. Her best friend and receptionist, Cookie, is equally entertaining, and she complements Charley like a hand and glove. We meet a few new characters as well that make a great addition to the story. I'm not sure what's going to occur with Donovan, but I'm positive it'll be pretty amusing. At least before it all goes to hell - yes the hell. As for Charley's dad, I don't really understand the length he went through to try to get his way in this novel. I'm getting a bit annoyed by him - he's not very nice, especially after painting a target on Charley's back in the previous book.

Now... Reyes *sigh*, he's more present than in Second Grave on the Left, but he still hasn't really joined the cast of main characters. The coming apocalypse storyline also doesn't progress much. I'm hoping when it does we'll get to see more of him. On the other hand, we did get answers to a few burning questions I had from the previous books: Mistress Marigold and Owen Vaughn. I didn't expect to get both of those revelations in this one , so I was very pleased. I think Owen is a bit psychotic: I understand what happened was awful but to the point of attempted murder…? So I doubt we've seen the last of him.

Third Grave Dead Ahead is no insignificant installment. It's fun, funny and full of charm. If you've enjoyed Charley before, you'll definitely enjoy her again in this one!

"How would you feel about us becoming plumbers? I have a nice crack."

--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads (less)

26 likes · like · see review

Feb 13, 2012 Suzanne (Doppleganger) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal, ghosts, funny

This book was fabulous! I can honestly say I loved every single page, and not because of Charley's severe coffee addiction. That's just a bonus.

I loved this book because Charley gets funnier, Reyes shows more of his hot devilish side, Cookie and Charley have the most hysterical dialogue, and Wong is...still in the corner.

Somewhere about halfway into Third Grave it hit me that I was completely wrapped up in the plot. Charley isn't just the grim reaper, Reyes' love interest, or a crazy woman in...more

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Mar 09, 2012 Carolyn F. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal-romance, favorites

Oh my gosh! Great book! Thanks to all the so-so ratings from other readers, I came to this book thinking it would be just okay and I'd have to struggle through it. The opposite happened. I started this book last night and read for about an hour, slept, worked 8 hours, did a bunch of errands, did some laundry and dishes, and STILL managed to finish this book tonight because I was pretty much carrying it around as soon as I got home. Who needs to actually see the shirt as you're folding it? It's m...more

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Jun 19, 2012 Laura *Daddy's Deviant Little Girl* rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: tbr-2012, paranormal, owned, alphalicious, cover-love, favorites, kick-ass-heroine, ghosts, 2012-january

This series has convinced me that Darynda Jones has to be one of the coolest people to hang out with.
Third Grave Dead Ahead has to be the best Charley Davidson installment yet. One of my favorite heroines is back and sassier than ever. We even got more Reyes in this one. The humor doesn't stop, but it's not the only emotion you feel. The action is non-stop and it's so hard to put down!
Well developed supporting characters are just as important to me in a book as good main characters. The story ju...more

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Feb 06, 2012 Larisa Papy rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2012, adult, ghosts, urban-fantasy

I loved this one!Abso-freaking-lutely.~~And not because we get to see Reyes in the shower,really.~~ Ok that may add to the cause a little bit,buuut,really it was amazing!I can't get enough of this series.And of Reyes.and Swoopes.Ok,ok and the newest added to the list,Donovan. [I have a feeling he will ascend pretty quickly this list]. What bothered me is that I forgot not to read this in the night.I should have remembered that I will wake everyone in the house because of my laughter.Seriously,I don'...more

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Dec 23, 2011 Shelley aka Gizmo's Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-releases, genre-urban-fantasy

*Rating* 4-4 1/2
*Genre* Urban Fantasy

*Review Spoiler Free!*

Paranormal Private Investigator and Grim Reaper Charley Davidson has more than a few problems this time around. Her main problem is the fact that she can’t sleep without having Reyes Farrow jumping her bones every time she closes her eyes. Reyes is extremely angry at Charley to the point where he ends up using her in a big way and now I’m extremely anxious to read the next installment to see what happens next.

Charley is still one of the...more

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Oct 21, 2012 VampireNovelFan rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wish-i-dnf, urban-fantasy, paranormal-romance, mystery, demons

Dead on Arrival…

I’m starting to wonder how many more directions we’ll get to these graves. Right, left, ahead… I don’t even know if Charley knows where she’s going anymore. I just hope the cemetery isn’t that big. Personally, I just want to know the directions to the exit.

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third installment of the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones. Charley once again is pulled into a murder case, this time involving a possessive doctor and his missing wife. She’d like to be a...more Dead on Arrival…

I’m starting to wonder how many more directions we’ll get to these graves. Right, left, ahead… I don’t even know if Charley knows where she’s going anymore. I just hope the cemetery isn’t that big. Personally, I just want to know the directions to the exit.

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third installment of the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones. Charley once again is pulled into a murder case, this time involving a possessive doctor and his missing wife. She’d like to be at her best, but after binding Reyes Alexander Farrow (Son of Satan and her lifelong protector) to his body, she’s haunted by him in her sleep, meaning she’s getting no rest at all. So she’ll just solve that little issue by staying awake. I go on record to say that Reyes is a better problem to have than Freddie Kruger…

Unable to rely on Reyes’s help when faced with grave danger, she may actually need to take care of herself! Oh the shock!

After reading this book, the events of book 2 were rendered completely pointless. Reyes goes from wanting his body to die (since it’s just a burden and he’d only rot in prison) to now wanting to save it to prove his innocence. Deux ex Machina much? He couldn’t have decided on that one whole book prior to this? There’s an excuse, but it’s as thin as the paper these books are printed on. Furthermore, I am completely apathetic to their relationship, and now he’s becoming a lot more of a problem than a sweet escape. Maybe in about 10 books from now they’ll actually fight, or do something way more interesting than what’s here.

At this point these books feel really formulaic. There are constant punchlines (very few actually made me laugh), no poignant drama, more humans causing trouble (as if they should be an actual threat to the Grim Reaper), and we get breadcrumbs at best for any development that relates to Charley’s powers. I honestly ended up skimming to the dialogue to get through this book, making me realize that I simply do not like Charley.

Finally the last 10% picks up in the paranormal department, but it should have happened a lot sooner. But of course, Charlie has to figure these things out for herself; it cannot be told. She’s just not smart enough to figure it out before the end.

I am still scratching my head as to how she didn’t figure out how to reverse a particular spell when the solution ended up being…oh, I don’t know…ONLY THE MOST OBVIOUS THING TO SAY!!

I gave three books a go. I really wanted to like it, but at this point this series is not for me. Where’s that exit again? Oh, here it is!

*Review also posted to Amazon.(less)

5 likes · like · see review

Mar 15, 2013 Yodamom rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audio, favorite-author, urban-fantasy, reading-again

4.5 Charley, The Grim Reaper, she has what every women wants Reyes Farrow. A man so hot so gorgeous legs weaken just looking at him. She has a family- a father who loves her, a sister who ? , and an Uncle. Then there are her friends, Cookie her trusted side kick, Angel the departed gang-banger, Mr Wong in the corner, the dead girl with the knife and Garret. Her dream job as a PI.
Oh, but not all is good in Charley land. Reyes escapes from prison, and gets her to help him. Pain, suffering and ext...more

4 likes · like · see review

Dec 07, 2011 Christen *Goldilox And The Three Weres* rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

This review will not contain spoilers for this book, but do not read it you haven't read books 1 and 2 in this series.

Another wonderful installment in Darynda Jones' hilarious and sexy Charley Davidson series!

Third Grave Dead Ahead begins almost where it left off - with Reyes back in jail and pisssssed at Charley. Since she bound him to his corporeal body he is stuck in jail and can't visit her incorporeally...except that he can. Every time Charley falls asleep he visits her, which would be HOT...more
This review will not contain spoilers for this book, but do not read it you haven't read books 1 and 2 in this series.

Another wonderful installment in Darynda Jones' hilarious and sexy Charley Davidson series!

Third Grave Dead Ahead begins almost where it left off - with Reyes back in jail and pisssssed at Charley. Since she bound him to his corporeal body he is stuck in jail and can't visit her incorporeally...except that he can. Every time Charley falls asleep he visits her, which would be HOT except that his visits include a lot of angry stares and growly words (and some other stuff that's not quite as bad...). So Charley has been drinking coffee nonstop and sleeping minimally, which makes for some very funny moments throughout the book. Charley is as snarky as ever, although I felt like she had more serious moments in this book than the other two, and I didn't mind those at all. There are also more Reyes moments in Third Grave, and I mean real Reyes moments, not just incorporeal Reyes moments. To keep from being spoiler-rific, I won't give any more details about that, but just know that all the Reyes that was missing from Second Grave is made up for in this one.

Of course there is actually an official investigation that Charley and Cookie are handling (Oh Cookie, how I've missed you as Charley's 'straight man'!), and as always these plot points are just as interesting as the Charley-Reyes stuff. Charley is looking for a missing woman (isn't she always) and that brings in some of the best side characters in the genre: Angel, Rocket, and Garrett.

If you loved the first two books in this series you will be thoroughly pleased with this one. All of the things that make this one of my favorite series are here - Charley's silly one liners and ridiculous train of thought, Reyes' hotness and enough Reyes scenes to whet your whistle, a great main plot, and secondary characters that I love love love. This book also moves along the continuing story of Reyes and Charley, and we learn even more about his childhood.

If you are new to Charley's world I highly recommend checking out this series. It is a one of a kind and a can't-put-it-down kind of read!

Read more of my reviews at goldiloxandthethreeweres.blogspot.com (less)

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Dec 29, 2011 Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Fans of paranormal mystery with female lead

Shelves: urban-fantasy, grim-reaper-personification-of-deat, part-of-a-series, read-by-december-2011, arc, adc-reviews, read-the-season-geimhreadh, detective-private-eye-sleuth, paranormal-mystery, 2011-reading

This is actually the first book in the series that I've read, but it was fairly smooth sailing despite that fact. It did take me a while to get used to the quirky/corny humor. But I have to say, I enjoyed the time I spent with Charley, Reyes, Cookie, Garrett and the others. Don't let the silly humor fool you. Darynda Jones writes a good quality mystery story.

Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur in the February 2012 Issue. http://affairedecoeur.com.

19 likes · like · see review

Feb 15, 2012 Julie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2012, favorites

Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks. I have some great quotes posted with my review on the blog. :)

This right here, my review for Third Grave on the Left by Darynda Jones, is turning out to be one of the hardest reviews I’ve ever had to write. Not because I was sorely disappointed in the book but because it was such a fan-freakin’-tastic read I am afraid I won’t be able to put into words how much I enjoyed it! I mean, I want to go and find the highest hill in my area, climb on top of it a...more Posted at Yummy Men & Kick Ass Chicks. I have some great quotes posted with my review on the blog. :)

This right here, my review for Third Grave on the Left by Darynda Jones, is turning out to be one of the hardest reviews I’ve ever had to write. Not because I was sorely disappointed in the book but because it was such a fan-freakin’-tastic read I am afraid I won’t be able to put into words how much I enjoyed it! I mean, I want to go and find the highest hill in my area, climb on top of it and shout to everyone about how fan-freakin’-tastic this book is! This entire series for that matter. It’s just brilliant. Simply brilliant.

Charley Davidson is a PI. She also happens to be the Grim Reaper. No big robes or anything, she just helps guide people to the light if they don’t find their way on their own. Because of this ‘other’ job, she can see and communicate with spirits. That is a handy dandy trick when you are a PI trying to find missing people. She is written so well, I am totally putting her on my favorite characters list when I have a chance. She is that awesome. One of the things I like so much about Charley is her humor. She is one of the funniest characters I have ever read. Yet even though she makes you laugh out loud at some of her dialogue and thoughts, she is so much more than a funny lady. She’s smart and clever and has such heart. She is a very well rounded character and if you have yet to meet her you have to have to have to.

Reyes is well, I suppose he is the main love interest but he is also the basis for the ongoing storyline that goes through each book of the series to date. This time around, he’s a bit of a jerk but I still want to lick him all over. Yes, I keep saying that. There is a reason people. Reyes is sex on a stick. Whatever that means. But he is. Y-U-M. Dark and mysterious, dangerous and sexy… And still a bit of a mystery. Even after three books, we don’t know all there is to know. But we know enough that we’re not driven crazy by what he don’t know. Does that make any sense? See, difficult review to write! Reyes ‘plays’ his role very well in this book. And his ‘role’ changes considerably by the end of this book. I am very anxious to see how his character develops over the next few books.

Quick recap of other characters worth mentioning: Cookie is always great. She is the perfect complement to Charley. Ubie is someone I want to give a big hug to. All the time. He is the rock Charley needs and he does that very well in this installment. Charley’s dad…many curse words came out of my mouth by the end of this book and they were all meant for him. I hope his actions are explained in the next book because, seriously, he’s an ass. Donovan is a new character and I really liked him. Yes, he pretty much comes out of nowhere and what he and Charley do is also pretty much out of nowhere but he works. Gemma is Charley’s sister. In book one she lived on my ‘characters I don’t like and sort of want to stab’ list. In book two, she came around as things were explained. Now I think she’s a good support for Charley. Garrett…oh Garrett. He is funny and smart and…pretty much a male version of Charley. Well, not exactly because that wouldn’t work well at all, but he is fun to read and after the whole ‘Reyes is a bit of a jerk’ feeling coursing through me after reading this book, I am inching towards Team Garrett. If there was a Team Garrett that is. Garrett was the cause of my teary eyes near the end of Third Grave. Such a touching scene and the perfect way to end this book.

On top of the incredible characters, the entertaining mysteries and the overlying storyline, I also love the details that make this series incredible. Mr. Wong, the spirit that stares into the corner of Charley’s apartment, how things are never taken too seriously so your heart won’t keel over, how each chapter starts with a quote from a t-shirt or a bumper sticker (examples of these include “I know karate, and like two other Japanese words” and “If life hands you lemons, keep them. Because, hey, free lemons” and “Sometimes that light at the end of the tunnel is a train”)…tons of little ongoing details that not only bring this series together but that keep you smirking from book to book to book.

There is one ongoing story in this series but each book also has its own mystery. The mysteries are always very well written and interesting to read. Trying to solve them is fun. And even though we have Charley and Reyes and Garrett and mystery and Grim Reaper stuff and and and…it all works! Darynda is a mastermind in her writing and she juggles these multiple points extremely well. You never feel lost or overwhelmed. You just feel giddy because you know you are reading an exceptional book from a fantastic series.

Third Grave Dead Ahead was, for me, the perfect read. It kept me guessing, had me giggling, laughing, crying and smiling. From the opening quote “Death comes to those who wait. And to those who don’t. So either way…” to the last word “Men”, I was glued to the page. And even through my tears, I beamed. I may have even hugged the book a bit when I was finished with it. And I may have threatened (with love) my friends who were ‘going to read it next week or later’ and made them read it now or else. And now that they have read it, they are thanking me profusely. There may be a parade. They all loved it. I wasn’t surprised at all because there really isn’t anything not to love about this book.

It is definitely going to be making an appearance on my Favorite Reads of 2012 list.

5plus stars(less)

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Aug 10, 2012 Natalie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites, supernatural-others, urban-fantasy, ghosts

I love this series! I originally picked up the first book because of the cover art. I thought it was pretty....yes I'm one of those...but I have found some amazing books that way!This installment in the Charley Davidson series is by far the best in my opinion.

After the 2nd book where she bound Reyes to his body to keep from killing himself, she is left haunted by him in her dreams instead. Her dreams with him are so vivid she wakes up feeling like she hasn't slept...and plus he is so angry and...more

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Feb 08, 2012 Paula (Romantic Book Affairs Blogspot) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal-romance, urban-fantasy, fantabulous-favorites

There is so much that I love about these books...the smart humor, the animated characters, Charley's best friend/sidekick Cookie, and the great mystery involving Reyes and Charley. Even though their relationship is complicated, and hasn't reached a point to where they trust each enough to give in to their feelings, the sexual tension is SMOKING HOT. And I want MORE!

Third Grave Dead Ahead picked up where we left off in the second book, Second Grave on the Left. I don't want to give away too much...more
There is so much that I love about these books...the smart humor, the animated characters, Charley's best friend/sidekick Cookie, and the great mystery involving Reyes and Charley. Even though their relationship is complicated, and hasn't reached a point to where they trust each enough to give in to their feelings, the sexual tension is SMOKING HOT. And I want MORE!

Third Grave Dead Ahead picked up where we left off in the second book, Second Grave on the Left. I don't want to give away too much, so I will just say that I loved that we got more page time with Reyes. We get to see a softer side to him and to know him just a smidge better. However, he is still a hot and sexy mystery that I'm dying to learn more about.

In each book we learn along with Charley a little about who she is - Reyes keeps saying there is more to who she is and she needs to figure it out soon because there is a war upon the horizon. Reyes please just tell us!

I feel like all of the secondary characters in Charley's life are growing in different ways. Gemma, Charley's sister is finally playing a more positive role in her life. Garrett is a sexy bad boy who I think has a little crush on Charley is now starting to understand the supe world. Cookie is an awesome sidekick/BFF and I think her and Ubie need to hook up. Ubie is the Uncle that is more like a dad to Charley. And Charley's dad - well I'm pissed at him right now. There are lots of other colorful side characters in this series and I love getting to know each one of them.

The ending left me laughing and crying at the same time. The new character at the end is exactly what Charley needs in her life. Oh, and I can't help but be extremely curious about the biker guy. Reyes may have some competition on his hands.

Darynda Jones knows how to write snark, suspense, mystery, and romance all in one book that keeps me turning the page. This is definitely the best installment in the series so far. I'm anxious for the fourth book in the series!
(less)

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Feb 10, 2012 Purple rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. What to tell about this book than LOVED IT & LOVED IT & LOVED IT:), although it left me a bit heartbroken in the end.The waiting was totally worth it and these book series definitely belong
to my *THE BEST OF THE BEST LIST.*

***SPOILERS ALERT***

Charley, the female protagonist of this book, THE Grim Reaper herself,is just such a likable character and never disappoints.She is a good,strong and passionate woman in everything she does, protective over her family and friends. She made me laugh...more

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Feb 05, 2012 t'irla ~The BookSlayer~ rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone who enjoys humour with thier UF

Shelves: darynda-jones, urban-fantasy, owned

I was so looking forward to this book...and I wasn't disappointed! Darynda Jones's zany, at times corny but always funny humour is back. I found myself at times groaning, laughing out loud and overall just smiling. It isn't too often a book can wring all this emotion but Charley, Cookie, Reyes and all sure take you on a roller coaster. I was almost in tears at one point with Charley's relationship with her Dad hurting her so much. I could feel her pain.

I enjoyed how Reyes's story unfolded and g...more

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Dec 27, 2011 Kelly % Books-n-Kisses rated it 5 of 5 stars

"OMG!!!!! To my sweet Dayrnda why must you do this to me.....*sigh*."

My Thoughts:
Oh Me, Oh My, Charley & Reyes WHY? WHY? WHY?

Darynda sucked me back into to the world of Charley Davidson. In this third installment of Charley’s series, we find Charley try to solve yet another missing person case. But not everything is as it seems. Charley meets some new friends and says good bye to some old.

I am not sure anything will be the same in Charley’s world after Third Grave Dead Ahead.

For those of yo...more

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Feb 16, 2012 Steph rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: series-i-love, author-웃, author-favorite, series-ongoing, 2012-favorites, 2012, sos-games-bsb-r4, i-see-dead-people

If you need an ARC reviewer, Ms. Jones, look no further, I'm your gal! ;)

P.S. To those that haven't read the first two books ~ this book's description contains BIG spoilers.

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third book in Darynda's Charley Davidson series. Due to Charley's relationship with the enigma that is Reyes, I recommend readers start with book 1, First Grave on the Right and read the books in order.

In Third Grave , Charley is desperately trying to stay awake (while not killing herself in a...more If you need an ARC reviewer, Ms. Jones, look no further, I'm your gal! ;)

P.S. To those that haven't read the first two books ~ this book's description contains BIG spoilers.

Third Grave Dead Ahead is the third book in Darynda's Charley Davidson series. Due to Charley's relationship with the enigma that is Reyes, I recommend readers start with book 1, First Grave on the Right and read the books in order.

In Third Grave , Charley is desperately trying to stay awake (while not killing herself in a car accident or due to caffeine overdose) because when she sleeps Reyes shows up angry, smoldering hot, and ravishes her. Hmmm, why avoid that? Well, for starters, in Second Grave on the Left, Charley bound Reyes and he's pissed. She can sense that he doesn't want to be there (there being where ever she is when she closes her eyes for anything more than a second or two). These two are drawn together like magnets. He keeps telling her that she is summoning him, but she cannot figure how that's possible. She has always assumed he came to her, knowing she needed him, but not because she called him to her.

In this addition to the series, Charley and Cookie try to find a doctor's missing wife. Only Charley believes he's responsible for her disappearance. Then, comes her family issues. She's able to reconnect with her sister, Gemma. However, her father starts insisting she leave the PI business because it's too dangerous. Charley's internal alternative job ideas are hilarious. Uncle Ubie continues to offer her support. And, Garrett Swopes continues to shadow her, for her safety, as ordered by her Uncle. Finally, she continues her search for information on Reyes in an attempt to unbind him. He remains in prison, now locked to his corporeal body. During that search, she finally meets the mysterious blogger, Mistress Marigold.

I love trying to visualize Charley's apartment, with her Looney Tunes wall clock and Mr. Wong (the silent ghost) staring into the corner, which is a cross between a storage room full of pillows and a broom closet.

Charley is absolutely, without a doubt, one of the funniest characters I have read. And, Cookie, her BFF, neighbor, and assistant is equally hilarious. The two of them together ... a laugh a minute. I have so much fun reading these books; I'm always sad when one ends and the long wait until the next one begins. Darynda manages to mix passion, suspense, mystery, and humor into each book. This series is definitely one of my favorites.

I know many people, me included, were frustrated by Charley's actions in Second Grave on the Left. But, the only complaint I have about this addition is that there wasn't more of Reyes. The last 1/4 of the book was chilling, heartbreaking, touching, and exciting! As always, Darynda keeps us on the edge of seat until the last page. Then, leaves us dying for more. Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet is due sometime in 2013 and that's just not fast enough for me. (less)

3 likes · like · see review

Feb 05, 2012 Ines rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, laughs

I was slightly afraid of reading this book since it's the third in a series and authors have a slight tendency to mess them up. Not Darynda though! Her new book is again funny and the reader is glued to the book while the action is split between Charley's two cases: the missing wife of a doctor who doesn't seem like a good person and the search for Earl Walker - dead or alive. While solving her cases, Charley is also attempting to break the Guiness World Record of sleepless nights by drinking lo...more

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Jun 13, 2012 Juls rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, urban-fantasy

WHEW! the last few chapters had me sweatin! BIG TIME!!!
WOW!! what a ride.
I'm happy the way things turned out for everyone involved but am still very sad about the relationship between Charley and Reyes and her and her dad.
Could her dad be more of a douche? How many times does he have to eff her over??? the excuse of him trying to protect is just BULL!

I cant wait to find out more about this war that's got Reyes's panties in a wad.

Great read and amazing series! 5+ stars!!!

5 likes · like · see review

Feb 07, 2012 Fakhrina rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I immensely enjoyed reading these series, especially the main character Charley, her power and all that crazy attitude of hers and LOL-worthy lines, but I'm getting tired of the same old underwhelming plot.

This book is getting too repetitive for me to handle; Charley with her PI cases that I don't give a damn about, her running bad jokes (it was funny at first, now its really grating on my nerves) and the never-ending description how hot,sexy, bad boy-brooding Reyes is. I mean, seriously, I got...more

6 likes · like · see review

Jan 22, 2013 Kara-karina rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

4.5/5
I think Darynda Jones' books get better and better with each new one. They definitely get darker and much more gripping even if Charley Davidson started as light urban fantasy series.

Sure, there is still lots of laughter, but the stakes are higher and a lot of people close to Charley get hurt.

This time Charley tries to find a woman who disappeared from the household of an abusive husband while at the same time chasing the traces of Reyes' stepfather.

She is having a hard time concentrating...more

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Feb 10, 2012 Nawnee rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Everyone

I'm going to try not to write any spoilers in my review since I know its irritating.
This is a great third book in the Charley Davidson series. Anyone that enjoys paranormal romance, or just a kick ass take no prisoners main character will fall in love with this book series. I highly recommend you start at the beginning or you will miss out on very important situations, information, and character development.
This book is an edge of your seat fast-paced read. The characters are all well rounded a...more

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Jun 08, 2012 Amanda The Book Slayer rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: immortal, angels, badass-hall-of-fame, demons, favorites, paranormal-romance, kick-butt-heroine, sexy-alpha-male, ghosts

Okay this book is the best so far. My emotions went up and down while spinning all around. It was awesome just like the rest of the series. I was shocked many times in this book! The last 1/4 th of the book should get an award alone for the heartbreak and amazing come back from the brink of no return! I cannot lie, I cried really hard toward the end. But they turned into tears of joy and all I want to do now is read the next book.

Seriously, if you have not read this series well shame on you! I...more

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Jul 25, 2012 Samantha rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Can't freakin wait!!!

3 likes · like · see review

Oct 31, 2012 Jessica rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 0-faves, 05-literary-crush-worthy, 07-freakin-hilarious, 24-ebooks, 25-hawt, 01-hall-of-fame

REREAD October 2012

Ok, so after having finished my reread with tears in my eyes I have no other choice but to make this one of my all time favorites, hence the spot on my Hall Of Fame shelf. God, this was even better than I remembered. And how awesome is that? I totally forgot what happened at the end of the book, so I was completely floored all over again by the events. :-D And now...onto book 4! Whooohoooo!

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Well, this was awesome...but I can't believe that...more

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Feb 18, 2012 Christina rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I just ADORED this book! There was no bad in it anywhere & really for me to not find fault in a book I've read is nigh unheard of! I literally laughed out loud so many times at Charley's inner sleep deprived monologues. I love how each book has been a perfect mesh of an individual case & overall story progression, it truly is impreesive that Jones is able to do that so perfectly. Mostly I enjoy the fact that I don't notice the switch back & forth between the overall story progression...more

1 like · like · see review

Mar 18, 2012 Shannon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: re-read

Loved loved loved this book! Can't wait for the next in the series.
Posted at Read, Write, Bliss

The fact that author Darynda Jones lives right here in New Mexico and that I’ve met her and that she is totally cool has nothing to do with the rave review I’m about to give her latest book, Third Grave Dead Ahead. The rave review has to do with the fact that this book, the third in the Charley Davidson series, is like being reunited with your best friend and the rest of the zany gang after months of s...more

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Jun 28, 2012 Bridgett rated it 2 of 5 stars

Finally got around to this book now! I was so looking forward to it, since I loved the first two in the series so much.
Sadly I have to say: this one was only ok.

Mrs. Jones writing is still as hilarious as it was, but Charlie doesn't talk to the departed as much in this book, as in the ones before. I missed that. It also centres more around Reyes, than anything else. The "Case" is really more of a filler in this book.

This is rather sad. I had come to like how Charlie solves her cases and the he...more

1 like · like · see review

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Darynda Jones Fans: Recommendations?	28	122	Nov 26, 2012 03:09pm
Am I the only one....	13	139	Nov 21, 2012 02:03pm
Third Grave Dead Ahead	24	146	Oct 05, 2012 08:34am
Romance Lovers fo...: Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3) - Start Date February 25th	108	41	Mar 09, 2012 01:50pm
The Lost Challenges: [February] 'Third Grave Dead Ahead' Group Read BOM Discussion <SPOILERS>	3	27	Feb 15, 2012 07:35am
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About Darynda Jones

NYTimes and USA Today Bestselling Author Darynda Jones won the 2009 Golden Heart® in the paranormal category for her manuscript FIRST GRAVE ON THE RIGHT. As a born storyteller, she grew up spinning tales of dashing damsels and heroes in distress for any unfortunate soul who happened by, annoying man and beast alike. After the Golden Heart final, she pimped herself as best she could, landed an amaz...more

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Books by Darynda Jones

First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson, #1)

Second Grave on the Left (Charley Davidson, #2)

Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet (Charley Davidson, #4)

For I Have Sinned (Charley Davidson, #1.5)

Death and the Girl Next Door (Darklight, #1)

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“Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong. -T-Shirt” — 124 people liked it

“Lead me not into temptation. I can find it myself. (T-Shirt)” — 108 people liked it

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Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3)

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