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

Jul 20, 2011 Lora rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: people who are looking for a hot and hilarious summer read

Recommended to Lora by: Dawn, Maja, J.R. Ward, my library's shelving system

Shelves: lib-read

. . . So. I was browsing in the New Fiction shelves at my library the other day — you know, just like every bookaholic does — and I came across debut author Darynda Jones' First Grave on the Right. I flipped through it, thought it sounded interesting but decided to put it back for the moment, since my bag was already giving me a shoulder cramp. Just as I was putting it back on the shelf, I noticed the blurb on the cover: "The best debut novel I've read in years! Hilarious and heartfelt, sexy and...more

63 likes · like · see review

Feb 07, 2013 ♠ Sharon is an emotional book junkie ♠ rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: read-in-2013

Don't you just love it when the majority of your friends love a book and keep telling you to read it but for some reason you don't get around to it. Then when you finally do...the only question that begs asking is why didn't I read this sooner?? That's this book exactly!

But beware...if you do not like snark, do not read this book. It is loaded with snark with more snark on top and even some snark sprinkles but any girl that names her boobs "Danger" and "Will Robinson" and her ovaries, "Beam me...more

33 likes · like · see review

Jul 17, 2011 Maja rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, favorites, books-for-rainy-days, i-see-dead-people, reviewed-in-2011, my-flat-army, just-another-book-crush, own-a-dtb

Garrett chose that moment to join the conversation. “I appreciate your forethought,” he said, his tone distant, as if his mind were elsewhere. “Not as much as your fore-parts, but still…”
I twisted around in my seat to face him. “My fore-parts, as you so ineloquently put it, have names.” I pointed to my right breast. “This is Danger.” Then my left. “And this is Will Robinson. I would appreciate it if you addressed them accordingly.”
After a long pause in which he took the time to blink several tim...more Garrett chose that moment to join the conversation. “I appreciate your forethought,” he said, his tone distant, as if his mind were elsewhere. “Not as much as your fore-parts, but still…”
I twisted around in my seat to face him. “My fore-parts, as you so ineloquently put it, have names.” I pointed to my right breast. “This is Danger.” Then my left. “And this is Will Robinson. I would appreciate it if you addressed them accordingly.”
After a long pause in which he took the time to blink several times, he asked, “You named your breasts?”
I turned my back to him with a shrug. “I named my ovaries, too, but they don’t get out as much.”

Now, if that little quote didn’t convince you to read First Grave on the Right, nothing I write will, either.

There's a new generation of UF authors who are slowly but surely rising to the throne. The names that instantly come to mind are Nicole Peeler, Jaye Wells and now Darynda Jones. I think it’s a lot harder to succeed these days than it was for Charlaine Harris, Patricia Briggs or Ilona Andrews, for example. It has become very difficult to find something new and exciting to read in the ocean of new UF novels. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we’ve seen it all and a completely original story is now a distant dream. I guess there are two ways around that obstacle. The first is finding something never before used, which is (as I’ve already said) almost impossible. Nicole Peeler did it, sure, but she IS a college professor, and all professors are generally awesome.
The second would be developing a great sense of humor (if you don’t already have one) and using it to distinguish yourself. That’s the path Darynda Jones chose, and she was extremely successful. The best way to start a book is with a laugh. Jones obviously knows this. By making the reader laugh on the very first page, the author achieves two important goals: he/she makes the MC instantly likeable and because of that, the reader keeps turning those pages.

I’ve read a couple of reviews comparing Jones to Janet Evanovich. Having just recently finished Wicked Appetite, I think that the only thing they have in common is that they are both hilarious. Although First Grave on the Right certainly is a fun read and Jones undoubtedly has a fantastic sense of humor, she does not have Evanovich’s courage to just let go: abandon all rules and reason along the way. But unlike Wicked Appetite, First Grave on the Right has a solid story that holds all the humor together.

(less)

49 likes · like · see review

Nov 10, 2010 Laura rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, goodreads-first-reads, adult-uf-pr

It is rare for me to give a book five stars, because to me, a book can only achieve such a high rating if:

1. It is near perfect.
2. It affects me on a deep, emotional level.
3. I’m biased towards the author and/or series and I’m not capable of remaining objective.

There are books that I have loved unconditionally and books that I have loathed to ever read again, but despite how my tastes may differ from those who share my love for books, I must insist that if you’re a fan of paranormal romance o...more It is rare for me to give a book five stars, because to me, a book can only achieve such a high rating if:

1. It is near perfect.
2. It affects me on a deep, emotional level.
3. I’m biased towards the author and/or series and I’m not capable of remaining objective.

There are books that I have loved unconditionally and books that I have loathed to ever read again, but despite how my tastes may differ from those who share my love for books, I must insist that if you’re a fan of paranormal romance or urban fantasy, you would be remiss not to read this book! I loved First Grave on the Right. I mean, I REALLY loved this book! It was perfection. Books like this are the reason why I fell in love with this genre to begin with.

First Grave on the Right seamlessly combines mystery/suspense, a romance that sizzles, and an infectious humor that kept me in stitches from beginning to end. The story focuses on Charley Davidson, private investigator and Grim Reaper extraordinaire. She is smart, sassy, and possesses a steadfast determination that has gotten her into trouble more often than not. She also has a penchant for naming her extraneous parts (and not so extraneous parts) with names that are sure to give you a chuckle. Armed with the ability to see dead people, Charley helps both the living and dead seek justice and find closure. It also doesn’t hurt that when she is in a bind, she has a quirky assistant, a sexy skip tracer, and a mysterious supernatural entity dubbed the “Big Bad” to help her whenever trouble is hot on her trail.

Encountering ghosts on a regular basis and helping them find their way to the other side is to be expected of the one and only Grim Reaper, but Charley never expected to experience an intense passion with a mysterious spirit that visits her only in her dreams. The spirit is described as being beautiful, but it is his slow seduction of Charley and the fleeting kisses and touches that they share that had me weak in the knees. I also enjoyed Charley’s love/hate relationship with the skip tracer, Garrett. Their flirtatious banter is amusing and I couldn’t help but root for the guy since he was so clearly smitten with her. Love triangles are a guilty pleasure of mine and I was pleased to discover that I liked both men and would be happy with whomever she ends up with.

I insist that everyone devour this book at the first available opportunity. It was truly a fantastic read. My only regret about winning it on Goodreads First Reads Giveaways is that now I will have to wait that much longer to get my hands on the sequel! If you’re looking to start the new year with a phenomenal paranormal romance, I suggest starting with this one! First Grave on the Right has an intriguing plot with plenty of twists and surprises that will keep you guessing, many memorable laugh out loud moments, and a romance that will entice even the most frigid of hearts.(less)

36 likes · like · see review

Jun 11, 2011 new_user rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy

Where was the laugh track, Jones? Darynda Jones litters First Grave on the Right with her sometime witty, sometime corny humor.

"You're about as inconspicuous as a monster truck at an exotic car show."

Wince. I don't mind bad analogies in lieu of clichés. At least she didn't say "a sheep among wolves." Jones owns her narrative; the formula doesn't own her. Put that on a plaque. But she really needs some restraint. Jokes continue as she's fleeing a murderer or dying from blood loss until you just...more Where was the laugh track, Jones? Darynda Jones litters First Grave on the Right with her sometime witty, sometime corny humor.

"You're about as inconspicuous as a monster truck at an exotic car show."

Wince. I don't mind bad analogies in lieu of clichés. At least she didn't say "a sheep among wolves." Jones owns her narrative; the formula doesn't own her. Put that on a plaque. But she really needs some restraint. Jokes continue as she's fleeing a murderer or dying from blood loss until you just want to take her aside and say, "Darynda. Give it a rest."

That killed the mood a little, but I probably wouldn't have rated Grave three stars if the narrative didn't focus so much on heroine Charley's fixation on a boy she met in high school. She pines after her one crummy memory of him threatening her with rape (for a good cause!). I don't get it; I remember high school boys. Years later, this boy grown up is fantasy fodder. He protects her faithfully, he invades her dreams, he wordlessly saves the day and conveniently poofs out of existence again when he isn't needed. Dude doesn't speak until the last chapter- excuse me, second to last chapter. He is just a fantasy. I was embarrassed for him.

Since the "romance" was a focus of Grave, that meant that I was not convinced of one of the novel's key claims. I could see Jones exploiting this and saving the series if Charley decided in the sequel, Second Grave on the Left , that hey, I don't really know this guy, and endured all the trials of a relationship as whatshisface and Charley learned about each other. Or if she realized hey, I actually know this other guy Garrett beside me and he's cool and he's into me too, forget the ghost. Since, however, Charley ends the book madly in love, I doubt it.

Grave also includes a carefully seeded plumbing of Charley's history throughout the novel for those of you who like full immersion, so that we are discovering her -kudos- and a complete murder mystery (despite rumors to the contrary). However, these take a distinct backseat to Charley and her prop- er, fantasy- er, man. It's not a mystery novel.

His poofing in and out is pretty cool though. And his killing with the smoke and the blades. Like something out of Mortal Kombat. (I have Mortal Kombat on the mind.) (less)

29 likes · like · see review

Jun 16, 2013 Hershey rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2013-reads, favorites, fantabulous, swoonworthy-male-leads, reviewed, 5-star-gems, best-series-ever, kickass-protagonist

“Never knock on death's door. Ring the doorbell then run. He totally hates that.
- T-shirt”

First Grave on the Right is a concoction of everything. It turned the cliched story line of grim reapers into that of a novelty. Have you ever considered a grim reaper being a cocky girl with an attitude? I certainly didn't.

I found the story line to be fast – paced, filled with humor and mystery. I also found the mixture of characters a little confusing but I got used to it. Jones has created an incred...more

26 likes · like · see review

Jun 05, 2013 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: recd-by-jr-ward, series-charley-davidson, first-in-series, format-hard-cover, starts-with-e-thru-h, pnr-grim-reaper, format-audio-book, 5-stars, 2013-reads, pnr-ghosts-demons-spirits, narrated-by-lorelei-king, author-darynda-jones, private-investigators, murder-mystery-whodunnit, witty-dialog, steamy-goodness, sexy-deliciousness

This review discusses the audio book qualities, as well as the actual story.

First Grave on the Right is the first book in Darynda Jones’s Charley Davidson series, and the world Ms. Jones has created is intriguing, exciting, and unique. I thoroughly enjoyed Lorelei King’s narration and her ability to give such distinctive voices to the many characters. She brings them to life with humor, passion, and a deeply profound poignancy that completely took me by surprise.

On the Cover: Charley sees dead

...more
This review discusses the audio book qualities, as well as the actual story.

First Grave on the Right is the first book in Darynda Jones’s Charley Davidson series, and the world Ms. Jones has created is intriguing, exciting, and unique. I thoroughly enjoyed Lorelei King’s narration and her ability to give such distinctive voices to the many characters. She brings them to life with humor, passion, and a deeply profound poignancy that completely took me by surprise.

On the Cover: Charley sees dead people. That’s right, she sees dead people. And it’s her job to convince them to “go into the light.” But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e. murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she’s been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

I’m a huge fan of paranormal romance, but lately I’ve not found much in the genre that grabs hold, keeps hold, and has me coming back for more. There’s just too much of the same old stuff out there, but that’s not the case here. I love the fact that Charley Davidson isn’t just a full time Grim Reaper, but she’s also a part-time PI who uses her “other-side” connections to help her solve cases. Of course there’s a lot of humor involved because no one else can see or hear the people and the voices that Charley can, but I was also blown away by the depth of emotion at points in the story.

And those who know me well know I wouldn’t have even given this book a second thought had there not been a love interest of some kind. And while I can’t call this a happily ever after romance – yet – there’s definitely something developing between Charley and the very hot, very tormented, otherworldly male named Reyes Farrow.

The bottom line: I’m absolutely thrilled with this story, and whether you read the book or listen to the audio version, I highly recommend it to fans of paranormal romance. It’s not too light, not too dark, and definitely sexy. And while there's no cliffhanger, it left me dying to find out what's going to happen next with Charley and Reyes!(less)

27 likes · like · see review

Jun 21, 2012 Lady Valee rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, urban-fantasy

I WISH I HAD READ IT WAY SOONER...
What an amazing read. And to think I wasn't even aware this author existed... I already know Darynda Jones will give me a new favorite series to be completely obsessed about. I was so sure I had completely lost my interest in the Urban Fantasy genre, so I must thank this author for proving me wrong, for helping me remember why this it's one of the finest. I have been extremely curious about this series as I just couldn't find a good review about it and everybody...more

13 likes · like · see review

Apr 21, 2013 Keertana rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: why-the-hype

Usually, when I wind up disliking a book the masses have loved, I am the last person to be surprised. I do, after all, have a penchance for being the black sheep; a tendency, if you will, to rarely give out high ratings. With First Grave on the Right, though, I don't think anyone is more surprised than I am. Unfortunately, this novel is a clear cut case of 'it's not you, it's me.'

Quite honestly, I am still struggling to come to terms with the fact that I did not enjoy this book, or as much of t...more Usually, when I wind up disliking a book the masses have loved, I am the last person to be surprised. I do, after all, have a penchance for being the black sheep; a tendency, if you will, to rarely give out high ratings. With First Grave on the Right, though, I don't think anyone is more surprised than I am. Unfortunately, this novel is a clear cut case of 'it's not you, it's me.'

Quite honestly, I am still struggling to come to terms with the fact that I did not enjoy this book, or as much of this book as I read. Jones has written a hilarious, engaging, and perfectly fun paranormal romance and, against all odds, all I found myself doing was finding fault with it. I suppose, technically speaking though, this book is flawless. Charley Davidson, the protagonist of our tale, is intelligent, brave, and witty. With every word that flies out of her mouth, you can't help but love her and, to top that all off, she's the Grim Reaper, responsible for convincing ghosts to leave the waking world and pass through her into the light. Add to that mix a sexy guy who gives Charley erotic dreams and who may or may not be a ghost and we have on our hands a perfect novel.

Or so it would seem. In reality, I found that the famed humor of this series got old - quickly. Sure, Charley is snarky and her dialogue will ensure you don't fall asleep, but the conversation lacks depth. In fact, for a Private Investigator, Charley does less investigating and more ogling. Not only does she seemingly have facts handed to her because she can talk to ghosts, but she has no problem walking around talking to thin air and looking like a maniac. Granted, she doesn't do this in public all the time, but it seemed odd to me that only three-four people knew of her gift when she flaunted it everywhere like a madwoman. It simply screamed unrealistic and for some reason, I was unable to move on past that, imagining Charley talking to the air while other people stood staring at her in a room. Hmm...

Even more than that, though, is the fact that the romance in this novel is seriously...odd? It seems as if there's a bit of a love triangle at first with Charley utterly intent on finding the guy of her dreams, Reyes, while her co-worker is bent on dating her. Nevertheless, it's obvious from the beginning that there is only one man for Charley, but I never felt invested in this aspect of the story at all. For one, Reyes and Charley have only met once and that was years ago when Charley helped fend off a man who was beating him, only to have Reyes threaten her with rape if she didn't leave him soon afterward. Of course, Reyes was only looking out for his younger sister and his actions can be forgiven - I guess - but either than seeing him as a figment of Charley's dreams, a mist that followed her and make her knees weak, there didn't seem to be much to him.

Ultimately, though, this novel lost my interest, turned me off with its constant humor, and I wasn't exactly the biggest fan of Charley or the writing style, especially the manner in which the murder mystery in this case was tackled. A story of three lawyers all dying on the same night is fascinating, but throw in a ghost who discusses the hotness of Charley's co-workers with her and all seriousness is lost. I guess you need to really love humor and especially urban fantasy-lite to be a fan of this series and I guess I'm just one of those few people who doesn't. Regardless, I'd encourage readers who plan to read Darynda Jones to give this series a try. With such a huge fan base of lovers, there's clearly something wrong with me.

You can read this review and more on my blog, Ivy Book Bindings.(less)

11 likes · like · see review

Jan 08, 2012 Mike (the Paladin) rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: didn-t-finish

First my over all impression of this book. Then I'll give some detail as to why I feel as I do. I picked this up because it got a...."whole passel", of 4 and 5 star ratings here. My over all impression of the book????

It's crap.

Why do I think that? Well at first I was thinking it would be okay if not one I really liked. It opened with an account of the protagonists dream where she was having intercourse with a "hot" shadowy figure. She made sure to tell us she'd had an orgasm.

I sighed and went on...more

26 likes · like · see review

Mar 23, 2012 Heather C rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: pdoc

This was an awesome paranormal-romance-urban-fantasy-mystery-comedy

It had a little bit of everything that I love!

What I loved:

♦ Charley: She was hilarious with the "attention span of a gnat"! She's an awesome heroine and reminded me a little of Stephanie Plum. She's kick-ass and hilarious.

♦ Reyes: He was yummy, hot, and delicious. (See sexy man photos below ↓ Thanks, Cayce!!)

♦ Swopes: If there was no Reyes I would take Swopes for myself!

♦ The lawyers: Even though they kinda made me sad :(

♦ T...more

29 likes · like · see review

Nov 20, 2012 Annie (Under the Covers Book Blog) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: Night Huntress fans

Recommended to Annie (Under the Covers Book Blog) by: J.R. Ward site, UKSandy

Shelves: first-book-in-series, genre-urban-fantasy, wraith-or-ghosts, ebooks, read-in-2011, audiobooks

When I read this book when it first came out, I was meh over it. I liked it, thought it was hilarious, found all the characters amazing, but didn’t feel the need to rush out and read the next book in the series when it came out.

However, I tried the audiobook recently and was floored by the way the narrator, Lorelei King was able to really bring the characters to life. She has that snark that I think is really important for Charley’s character and she does little girl’s voices SO WELL. I devoured...more

19 likes · like · see review

Dec 15, 2011 Lisa Kay rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: genre-paranormal, genre-urban-fantasy, character-ghosts, m-audible-dot-com, buddy-read, setting-usa-new-mexico, reviewed-by-me, authors-j, authors-d, zzcover-white

★★★½✩ This is a review of the audiobook, which is very well narrated by Lorelei King. I’m so conflicted about this book. It started out great and was a lot of fun ー for about two thirds of the book. However, it had some major plot holes a mile wide and, worse , toward the end it lost that sense of fun – even ending on a bit of a downer.

Make that several downers. I’m tempted to rate it lower by another ½ star. The dilemma of rating with a ½ star is: do I round up or down when I click on the GoodR...more ★★★½✩ This is a review of the audiobook, which is very well narrated by Lorelei King. I’m so conflicted about this book. It started out great and was a lot of fun ー for about two thirds of the book. However, it had some major plot holes a mile wide and, worse , toward the end it lost that sense of fun – even ending on a bit of a downer.

Make that several downers. I’m tempted to rate it lower by another ½ star. The dilemma of rating with a ½ star is: do I round up or down when I click on the GoodReads stars? I’ve changed my mind half a dozen times because I know there will be people out there who will LOVE this book. I’ll generously give it the benefit of the doubt as I plan to continue with the story, since I really like Charley Davidson. Nah. Maybe I won’t.

Why? What did I like dislike? Well. . . I didn’t quite get the whole Reyes thing. His personality was too elusive for me. At times he was really H.O.T. At others, I was like, “Well, I like the strong, silent type, but this is ridiculous.” But I guess that’s the point ー and the allure. (view spoiler)

This book is an amalgam of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, murder mystery, and chick-lit all thrown together to make a nice premise that doesn’t quite pull it off at the end. (Wow. I just realized ー that’s just like the characters. Each is an amalgam, and too much so.) Perfectly amazing secondary characters go to waste and some of the decisions made by the major (and minor) characters made me go, “Huh? If he could do that, why didn’t he do it sooner?”

Plus, I’m not voyeuristic, so I really couldn’t help wishing Mr. Wong, however incorporeal a being, kept his eyes firmly shut and scrounged up a pair of industrial-strength ear plugs.
(less)

12 likes · like · see review

Oct 11, 2012 Merve Özcan rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: paranormal, immortal, ghost, romance, translated-to-turkish, fav-women, tough-female-lead

İkinci okuyuşum: 10 Ekim 2012 Başladı bitti.

Okuyucu testini burada bulabilirsiniz :))
http://kitabisevda.blogspot.com/2012/...

İkinci okuyuşum ve kitap bende aynı etkileri uyandırmadı. Belki daha seçiçi oldum, belki de çevirisi bir şeyleri çaldı bilmiyorum.

Charley Davidson gerçek komik bir karakter, adlandırılmış uzuvları, ukala cevapları, insanları gıcık eden doğası ona ayrı bir hava katıyor. Tabii bazı espiriler çeviri ile resmen rezil oluyor. Ama bu kadını seviyorum. Beni Tehlike ve Will Robi...more

8 likes · like · see review

Aug 21, 2011 Giselle rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ebook, paranormal

“You rented the apartment with a dead guy in the corner?” I shrugged. “I wanted the apartment, and I figured I could cover him up with a bookcase or something.

Pee. In. My. Pants. !!! Yes, I had to wear Depends while reading this! This was such a fun, fantastic novel. And, oh my god, Hilarious!!! Charley Davidson (that's right!) is a grim reaper, she sees and helps ghosts cross to the other side, but sometimes she helps solve their murders - which is why she is also a private investigator.

The hu...more “You rented the apartment with a dead guy in the corner?” I shrugged. “I wanted the apartment, and I figured I could cover him up with a bookcase or something.

Pee. In. My. Pants. !!! Yes, I had to wear Depends while reading this! This was such a fun, fantastic novel. And, oh my god, Hilarious!!! Charley Davidson (that's right!) is a grim reaper, she sees and helps ghosts cross to the other side, but sometimes she helps solve their murders - which is why she is also a private investigator.

The humor is by far the greatest asset of this book: "oh my god she did not just say that" snarky humor that is just pure awesome. There are so many great lines that I bothered to write them down for future witty comebacks. And talking about witty, Charley is the wittiest and most fun loving character I've ever read. She is just priceless and often crazy. I wish I was Charley. I want to form a Charley fan club where we can all share our boobs' names. Yes, I'm afraid I have a girl crush on Charley!

Ok, I'll admit it, the thought of those two having hot, unsafe animal sex was a bit creepy, especially since my aunt didn't have any teeth.

The plot is a murder mystery mixed into the craziness that is Charley's life. She's just starting to realize that being the grim reaper is only a small dot in the world(s) she's mixed in. I can't say any more without revealing spoilers. I thought it was great. I liked how she had a best friend she could trust who just believed in her and her abilities without questions. I also quite enjoyed Mr. love interest. The romance is mysterious; slow but passionate. Charley is getting visits from a beautiful spirit that she can't help but feel weak in the knees for. But in the requisite love triangle, we also have the snarky unbeliever who is clearly fascinated by her. I enjoyed their silly bantering and flirtatious behaviours. I really loved both of them they're both great additions to the story.

I'd just had a near-sex experience with a blazing inferno.

This was my first grim reaper book, so it felt really unique and different to me. Darynda did a great job luring me into her novel and making me adore her characters. It's sexy, smart and sophisticated and anyone with a sense of humor will think it's fabulous.

If I couldn't be a good example, I'd just have to be a horrible warning. (less)

22 likes · like · see review

Jan 29, 2011 Mary (BookHounds) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011, arc, from-publisher-author

Smart, sophisticated, sexy, snarky, snazzy, special, well, you get the point and I can't think of any more adjectives that start with "s" to describe the book any more. Imagine if MaryJanice Davidson and Lisa Lutz wrote a book together about a paranormal P.I. that is part Spellman Files and Queen Betsy, but with less shoes. I cannot even begin to describe my joy with this new series and the wonderful dialogue and even inner dialogue that takes place in First Grave on the Right. You can throw in...more

11 likes · like · see review

Nov 11, 2011 Heidi rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Five stars! You need to set aside some time to completely engulf yourself in this book!
As of late the paranormal/supernatural book market is choking with vampires, werewolves and witches. Enter Darynda Davis, whose debut book, First Grave on the Right, is a scintillating, slosh of freshness. Her writing slicks and soothes across our parched need for something refreshing and original. Behold, our new supernatural heroine, Charley Davidson, a sparkling beacon of light, she is the Grim Reaper. This...more Five stars! You need to set aside some time to completely engulf yourself in this book!
As of late the paranormal/supernatural book market is choking with vampires, werewolves and witches. Enter Darynda Davis, whose debut book, First Grave on the Right, is a scintillating, slosh of freshness. Her writing slicks and soothes across our parched need for something refreshing and original. Behold, our new supernatural heroine, Charley Davidson, a sparkling beacon of light, she is the Grim Reaper. This book is such a bright, innovative entry into the field. Don't miss this one!

What I Liked:
*Charley, she is not your Grandma's grim reaper. She doesn't even don a hooded, black robe (she claims it is at the cleaners). Instead she is sexy, sassy, witty and one of kind. She absolutely drips with sarcasm. This gal has razor sharp wits and she is destined to vault over some of the favorite leading ladies in this genre. Did I mention sarcastic? Ladies and Gents this girl can snark with the best of the best. Since a majority of this book is written in a stream of conscious format, you are deluged with her clever commentary on anything and everything; you have a front row seat into her thoughts. I have always been a fan of the stream of conscious writing style, it certainly spices up the story. As the grim reaper Charley is the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel; she is the gateway through which the departed pass to the other-side. She also has the ability to see and converse with the dead. Other than that she is just a normal human. She is a private investigator, who works with her Uncle Bob, a police chief, who wears a rubber band on his wrist to flick when his anger control slips. Using her ghost whispering abilities they work on solving a case involving three slain lawyers.
Even though she possesses the totally kick butt name Charley Davidson, sadly she is bereft of any super power type strength; thus she is always in situations where she is getting her butt handed to her. Oh, and she drives a jeep named Misery a tribute to Stephen King. Have I convinced you yet that this gal has swank? I could go on but I am writing a review, not a novel to pay homage to this book.
* Cookie, Charley's best friend, across the hall neighbor and secretary. Quite the gal isn't she!? Her name is fitting.... ahh Cookie she is Charley's comfort, shoulder to lean on, a warm hug not too mention a super valuable sleuth. Everyone should have a friend like Cookie in their lunch box.
* Big Bad, he is Charley's life long, enigmatic protectorate. He scares the pants off her. He is black smoke and mystery; appearing and disappearing at will swooping in just in time to save her. Folks when you get to the ending and you learn the true secrets behind his identity....let me tell you, that chapter is sizzling, smoking hot, scorching, read with your fan set to high and blaring in your face. Whew!
* The writing in this book is superb. Ms. Jones repertoire of similes and metaphors is absolutely astounding and breathtaking. I was blown away. This lady has some mad writing skills!
*The ghosts, that pop in and out of the story. They have personality and spunk; well except for Mr. Wong (snickering).
*I now feel compelled to get a new wardrobe of T-shirts that sport all the comedic quips that are at the beginning of every chapter. My favorite is the one that says "Jenius". Seriously, Ms. Jones ought to consider starting her own clothing line with all these gems!

And The Not So Much;
*This book has an intricate plot. I would say it starts out as a tree trunk; growing toward solving the murder mystery but then it branches out and you have numerous story lines; the search for Reyes, unmasking Big Bad, and numerous ghosts with their own stories popping in and out and crossing over. All of this is a lot to digest. The tree gets big with a lot of branches. Sometimes it is a lot to keep straight. To totally appreciate and understand this book you need to read it in a short time span, if you put it down (not that you will want to), you might get lost.
*As mentioned this book uses the stream of conscious format and sometimes having all of Charley's saucy, razor edge commentary weaving in and out gets distracting. Again, I am a big fan of this style but it can be complex. I had to read numerous passages over because sometimes I got caught up in her tangential thoughts and lost track of the story thread.
*While most of the characters were rich and deep, a couple missed the mark. Namely Garrett, I am still not sure how his puzzle piece fits into place. At times he is the perfect compliment to Charley. He can go toe to toe with her sarcastic banter. Other times he seems flat, like an extra and then he comes to the forefront again. His character needs growth. Angel was another character that disappointed me. He is briefly mentioned in the first pages, then he is glossed over and forgotten until he reappears in the second half of the story. Turns out he is Charley's ghostly, crime-solving sidekick. He appears as an integral character so why is he so late to the dance? I just felt that he should have been given more time and development.
*The ghosts that come out of the woodwork, don't get me wrong, I loved these characters but again there are so many coming and going and they each have a story and agenda. It makes it difficult to remember who is who. The lawyer ghosts are key players in the beginning and then they fade out of the picture for a long spell. Finally, they arrive back in the story at the finish to solve the crime and apprehend their killer. As I said a flood of people living and dead are in and out of the picture.

That being said, this is a superb, outstanding debut novel. I am just kicking myself for letting it languish in my To Be Read Pile for six months. Well, I am not going to berate myself too much because due to my procrastination I do not have to wait for the next installment. It is already sitting atop my pile. Book Three is due out in February 2012. I highly recommend you pick both books up immediately!(less)

11 likes · like · see review

Feb 16, 2013 Yodamom rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorite, audio, reading-again

I really liked it. It was pure entertainment for me. The heroine was strong independent with a dark past, who just happens to be the Grim reaper. She has been 'haunted' by this dusty shadow her whole life, it have saved her life many times, and yet she fears it. The ghosts attracted to her because of her job fear it. Although she feels some comfort that it's always there, since her birth, which she remembers from her first breath on. Oh, and her eventual love interest, is something. -Very differ...more

11 likes · like · see review

Mar 20, 2011 Vinaya rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: bleh, could-have-been-better, fluff-fluffy-fluffest, romance, urban-fantasy

I think it's time someone let the author of this book into a little secret: Ms. Jones, stringing together a thousand-odd wisecracks does not make a novel. That is more commonly known as a Joke Book. In fiction, we like our wisecracks accompanied by an actual plot, plot development, sub-plots and character development. Say it with me, Sto-ry-line.

You know that teen movie trope about a nerdy guy trying to be popular by joking around with the jocks? Only his jokes always sound rehearsed and fall f...more

65 likes · like · see review

Apr 14, 2013 Joanna Tsiou rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: adult-romance, favorites, mythology, worth-every-minute, urban-fantasy, paranormal

This book was so, so, so awesome! I don't know how to describe how happy I am right now!

We have Charley...

Charley is THE Grim Reaper...Not the guy with the black hood and scary face but the 27 year old brunette full of attitude and snark. Can I just say that Charley went right up there with my favorite heroines? She isn't a badass like Kate Daniels or Elena Deveraux, in fact she mostly gets her ass kicked through the book but she is so full of sarcastic comments and hilarious innate dialogs that...more

10 likes · like · see review

Feb 09, 2013 Erin rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorite-authors, favorites, romance-erotica-faves

First Grave was such a fun, exciting, SEXY read, I just loved every minute!! I had heard about this series but put off reading it, and I wish I had picked it up sooner!!

I love a story that can incorporate a lot of different emotions, and Jones does just that with First Grave. I never knew what was coming next, and part of that was thanks to the unforgettable characters and clever plot. Charley is a fabulous heroine, she made every page of this book memorable. Jones had me laughing hysterically o...more First Grave was such a fun, exciting, SEXY read, I just loved every minute!! I had heard about this series but put off reading it, and I wish I had picked it up sooner!!

I love a story that can incorporate a lot of different emotions, and Jones does just that with First Grave. I never knew what was coming next, and part of that was thanks to the unforgettable characters and clever plot. Charley is a fabulous heroine, she made every page of this book memorable. Jones had me laughing hysterically on many occasions with this story, Charley's witty comebacks (anyone who names their breasts 'Danger' and 'Will Robinson' is destined to give you a lot of laughs!) and random quirky thoughts were absolutely hilarious!! And she was such a strong, independent woman, which I just loved. She uses her 'gift' of being the grim reaper to help the police and run her PI business, and it made for one thrill after another as she tries to help the deceased and solve crimes all at once. Add to that an incredibly sexy entity that entertains her deepest desires every night in her sleep, and you have yourself one well-rounded grim reaper!

Reyes, the incredibly sexy and unimaginably gorgeous hunk, is a big question mark for Charley. She knows little about him, but she can't fight the feeling that he's got something to do with Big Bad, the mysterious entity that has been with her since her first memories. I was as anxious as Charley was to figure out what the heck was going on with this guy, and as his identity and connection in her life is revealed, I couldn't help but like him even more!! He plays a huge part in Charley's life, and I don't just mean the STEAMY moments they spend together!! The sparks between these two was like a fourth of July fireworks display going off every time they're near each other, and I just loved how protective he was of her. I can't wait to see where things go for them in the rest of this series, though I'm sure it's going to be a very bumpy ride!!

I loved the supporting characters in this story, too, especially Charley's friend and assistant Cookie. She played off of Charley's sarcastic sense of humor perfectly, they had me cracking up!!! And Uncle Bob was a great character, too; he was protective of Charley but knew she had to do what she was meant to, and his belief in her identity made for some very entertaining conversations between him, Charley, and the dead people hanging around her! Charley was constantly at odds with the cops that didn't believe in her abilities, and I loved the moments where she proved to them she wasn't full of herself...she's like a funny, hot ghost whisperer with an attitude! =)

The unique plot for this book was really exciting, I loved how there were so many twists and turns as Charley and the police uncovered details about the lawyers' death. Charley was in danger a LOT, which of course had me glued to the story! Jones has a great mix of humor, sexiness, creepiness, and creativity in this story to make it a real page-turner, and I very much look forward to getting into the next book in this great series!!

You can also find my review at:http://www.autumnreview.com/2012/1...(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Jul 07, 2011 Bonnie rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, ghosties, adult, full-of-wonderful, owned-finishedreviewcopy

Charley is a grim reaper. Or THE grim reaper. She is the portal that allows the deceased to pass through to the other side. Charley is also a private investigator and in addition to helping the deceased pass through to the other side she also helps them tie up loose ends whether it be passing on a final message to a loved one or solving the mystery of who murdered them. Plus, Charley is hilarious. She’s this super snarky and fabulously funny chick. She also has a mysteriously handsome supernatur...more Charley is a grim reaper. Or THE grim reaper. She is the portal that allows the deceased to pass through to the other side. Charley is also a private investigator and in addition to helping the deceased pass through to the other side she also helps them tie up loose ends whether it be passing on a final message to a loved one or solving the mystery of who murdered them. Plus, Charley is hilarious. She’s this super snarky and fabulously funny chick. She also has a mysteriously handsome supernatural stalker named Reyes Farrow. He’s certainly something. :)

This book had me rolling with laughter, so if you’re in that kinda mood, this is so the book for you. I had to stop myself from doing about a gazillion status updates just to share my favorite quotes; so instead, you get some of my favorites in my review!

• “What twirly nugget are you from?” (Okay this one is taken out of context, so it might not make sense, but just on principle it’s funny!)

• Because my apartment was roughly the size of a Cheez-It, it didn’t take me long to feel my way to the kitchen in the dark.

• Maybe if I hovered over the pot, it would develop an inferiority complex and brew faster just to prove it could.

• “So, then, what are you?” I wondered if your worst nightmare would sound silly.

• “You rented the apartment with a dead guy in the corner?” I shrugged. “I wanted the apartment, and I figured I could cover him up with a bookcase or something.

Okay, so here I am stopping myself again. Because those were my favorite lines from like… half of the first chapter. I’m writing a review here not a novel. Suffice it to say, I loved this book!
I don’t recall having ever read a novel about a grim reaper before, so I don’t actually have something to compare it to, which is nice. When I first read the summary of this book it made me think of the HBO series ‘Dead Like Me’ which I was a super big fan of. The lead characters are both girls, both grim reapers, bot hilarious, and they both have boy names. (George and Charley). Hmm… just realized that. Anyways!

Darynda Jones wrote a fabulous story, it was extremely intriguing, had me laughing inappropriately at work for two days straight, and I absolutely CANNOT wait for the second book. (less)

5 likes · like · see review

Dec 24, 2012 Book Chick City rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: urban-fantasy, book-list-2011, favorites, all-hallows-eve-2011

Originally posted on Book Chick City .

What a brilliant debut novel. I loved it. The characters, the story, the world... There's lots of action too, which is suspenseful and engaging. I couldn't put this book down and read it in one sitting.

Charley is fantastic – I love her character. She’s sassy, brave and keeps getting herself into trouble. She’s smart, funny, witty, and I love her snark. Charley is a grim reaper who can see and talk to the dead. She’s also the light, the portal to the other si...more

5 likes · like · see review

Jul 23, 2011 MISS VAIN rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to MISS VAIN by: Cat Russell (Addicted2Heroines)

Shelves: darynda-jones

"So many dead people, so little time."

Charley Davidson is such an inspirational protagonist from the beginning of this book I couldn't get enough of her. Easy 5 stars!!! This book took me on an adventure ride that i was sad and dissapointed when i finished, because i did not want to get off. So many times while reading I burst out laughing while reading: So beware when reading this in public ;)

Never have I read a book before with so many wonderfully imaginative and witty one-liners that I...more

7 likes · like · see review

May 22, 2011 willaful rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: angsty-goodness, hero-makes-me-swoon, tortured-hero

Charley Davidson has been the Grim Reaper since the day she was born -- yes, she can remember -- so she’s pretty much gotten the lifestyle down. She works as a PI, helps her cop uncle solved murders -- being able to talk to the victims is a big plus -- and has a sign on her bathroom warning “No dead people beyond this door” to try to maintain a little privacy. (It doesn’t always work.) But what with the mysterious force who appears to murder anyone who threatens her, the dream lover that visits...more

10 likes · like · see review

Mar 27, 2012 Regina rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Regina by: Carina

Shelves: urban-fantasy-uf, bingo-r4, narration-is-great, will-continue-series

3.5 Stars. I listened to the narration and it was done very well by Lorelei King. The voices are similar to the ones she used in Mercy Thompson series and Stephanie Plum series; but they are good voices so that is okay. The story was interesting, I enjoyed the Albuquerque setting. Books set in locations outside of the overdone cities of New York and London are always a plus.

The premise of who Charley is, well is unique and I liked it. The one-liners were maybe a bit overdone (as was the coffee...more

7 likes · like · see review

Apr 25, 2013 Kaye Snifeld rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: all-time-faves

First things first--I never write reviews because of one main reason, I am no good at them, so lets just say this will not be your typical review. :)

When I find a book I really like all I want to do is climb on roof and shout...or in the cyber world, go on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, Wattpad and even Google+ and tell everyone I know they "MUST READ the book I just read because it is just soooooo AMAZING and Oh-Em-Gee!!! You will just love it!!!"

And while that is perfectly fitting for First G...more First things first--I never write reviews because of one main reason, I am no good at them, so lets just say this will not be your typical review. :)

When I find a book I really like all I want to do is climb on roof and shout...or in the cyber world, go on Facebook, Goodreads, Twitter, Wattpad and even Google+ and tell everyone I know they "MUST READ the book I just read because it is just soooooo AMAZING and Oh-Em-Gee!!! You will just love it!!!"

And while that is perfectly fitting for First Grave on the Right, I think I must do this book a bit more justice than that, and actually explain WHY it is so amazingly awesome.

First and foremost Charley Davidson aka Charlotte Jean Davidson aka Grim Reaper, is one kick ass chick. She's mouthy, she's witty, and she's just pure awesomeness in one little butt kicking sexy package...oops Charley doesn't like being call little hehe :)

But what's even more great is yes she seems totally confident all the time even in the worst situations, but we also get to see the self-conscious, scared and lonely side to her as well. And the author portrays it with pure perfection.

I instantly fell in love with every single character in the story, each of them fitting perfectly in Charley's world, from her caffeine crazed best friend Cookie to her easily angered Uncle Bob aka Ubie to her sexy grey eyed Frenemy Garrett.

And lets not forget her sexy nighttime stalker ;) I wont go into any more detail in that department because I do not want to ruin a single thing.

This book will have you guessing from beginning right to the end, whether its "Who killed the lawyers" or "What IS Reyes?" Your theories will become many.

It's definitely a page turner, so get ready to have a book / eReader permanently attached to your hands. I started reading and couldn't stop, I even brought it with me to my brother's hockey game and read in between periods (Hurray for iPhones!)

Fans of Jeaniene Frost, Karen Marie Moning and Ilona Andrews I know you are missing your favorite books, but HURRY!!! Get your hands First Grave on the Right!! I promise you will not be disappointed!

(less)

3 likes · like · see review

Apr 14, 2013 Maria rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ghosts, magic, demons

This is the second time that I read this book and I have to admit that I enjoyed it much more! “First Grave on the Right” has it all: badass heroine, non-stop action, too many funny moments and a mysterious hot man. Do you need more? Believe me when I say that this is one of the best urban fantasy books that I’ve ever read.

Charley Davidson is a private investigator and a Grim Reaper. Yes, you read right. She is the portal between this world and the other for the dead people. Also, she helps the...more

3 likes · like · see review

Mar 22, 2011 Isamlq rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: anyone who loves Cat's sense of humor (ala 'no she didn't just say that!')

Darynda Jone’s First Grave on the Right is HI-larious. Everything from what Charley does, to the titles of each chapter is chuckle inducing. And I loved every moment of it. You are plopped right at the beginning of one of Charley’s cases. Charley just happens to be a PI and the light to which we go when we die aka the grim reaper. What’s surprising is, it works! Charley isn’t the billowing black cloak wearing, scythe carrying type instead what ends up in my head is a cross of Mac (new version) a...more

7 likes · like · see review

Mar 20, 2011 Cat Russell (Addicted2Heroines) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, highly-recommend

Refreshingly original. An easy 5 stars. Jones has managed to create a story that is light, playful, dark and disturbing all at once.

The story was full of humor and the majority of it was a riot, but I must admit there were several places where the jokes were predictable or they fell a little flat for me. In the beginning where nearly every sentence was loaded with sarcasm (and death stares), I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy it, but the story takes off quickly and once I had started there was...more

6 likes · like · see review

topics	posts	views	last activity
Urban Fantasy ser...: December BOTM: FIRST GRAVE ON THE RIGHT by Darynda Jones	9	37	Dec 20, 2012 07:23pm
You'll love this ...: October 2012 - First Grave on the Right	87	74	Dec 16, 2012 07:40am
Paranormal Romanc...: Suggestions on books similar to Charley Davidson Series	13	122	Nov 20, 2012 05:57pm
Darynda Jones Fans: * Day 1 - Where it all began ~ First Grave To The Right by Darynda Jones	26	56	Oct 17, 2012 06:43am

title link	preview: First Grave on the Right
avg rating	preview: First Grave on the Right Goodreads rating: 4.10 (18636 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8788555-first-grave-on-the-right?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1312051122l/8788555.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8788555-first-grave-on-the-right?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones[/url]

First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson #1)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (27)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Darynda Jones

Books by Darynda Jones

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About First Grave on th...

Quotes from First Grave on the Right