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Deadwood #2
Optical Delusions in Deadwood
Someone is spreading rumors around Deadwood that Violet Parker likes to chat with dead folks.
With her reputation endangered, her bank account on the verge of extinction, and her career at risk of going up in flames, Violet is desperate. When the opportunity to sell another vintage home materializes, she grabs it, even though this "haunted" house was recently the stage for a two-act, murder-suicide tragedy.
Ghost or no ghost, Violet knows this can't be as bad as the last house of horrors she tried to sell, but sexy Doc Nyce has serious doubts. Her only hope of hanging on to her job is to prove that the so-called, ghostly sightings are merely the eccentric owner's optical delusions.
But someone-or something-in the house wants Violet stopped...dead.
With her reputation endangered, her bank account on the verge of extinction, and her career at risk of going up in flames, Violet is desperate. When the opportunity to sell another vintage home materializes, she grabs it, even though this "haunted" house was recently the stage for a two-act, murder-suicide tragedy.
Ghost or no ghost, Violet knows this can't be as bad as the last house of horrors she tried to sell, but sexy Doc Nyce has serious doubts. Her only hope of hanging on to her job is to prove that the so-called, ghostly sightings are merely the eccentric owner's optical delusions.
But someone-or something-in the house wants Violet stopped...dead.
414 pages, Paperback
First published May 8, 2011
431 people are currently reading
1647 people want to read
About the author
Ann Charles
65 books1,274 followersAnn Charles—Author
Nearly Departed in Deadwood, the 2010 Daphne du Maurier Award Winner and a 2011 RWA Golden Heart Award Winner.
*USA Today Best Selling Author,
*Amazon Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Barnes & Noble Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Winner Suspense Magazine Best of 2012, 2015. 2016
*Winner of Paranormal Grand Prize from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media,
*Winner of Southern Writers Best Covers Contest
You'll laugh. You'll cringe. You'll want more.
Nearly Departed in Deadwood, the 2010 Daphne du Maurier Award Winner and a 2011 RWA Golden Heart Award Winner.
*USA Today Best Selling Author,
*Amazon Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Barnes & Noble Top 100 Bestselling Author
*Winner Suspense Magazine Best of 2012, 2015. 2016
*Winner of Paranormal Grand Prize from Chanticleer Book Reviews and Media,
*Winner of Southern Writers Best Covers Contest
You'll laugh. You'll cringe. You'll want more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 410 reviews
August 8, 2024
Optical Delusions in Deadwood by Anne Charles
Deadwood series #2. Paranormal cozy mystery and romance. Best read in series order.
After her recent experience, Violet Parker is now known around Deadwood as being able to talk to ghosts. With her reputation in question, and her bank account low, Violet is desperate to use her real estate license to sell a house. She accepts the contract on a house with a reputation of being haunted, mostly because she really doesn’t have a choice. A positive attitude and the right buyer could get her out of the hole and buy some groceries for her pantry.
The first book sets the tone for the series. Violet and Doc move their relationship to the next level, though Violet hides the fact from Natalie who thinks she’s in love with him. A ghost gets Violet’s attention while her co-worker salesman tries to get Violet to give up.
Fun characters and amusing premise though some stereotypes went a bit overboard.
I read the first many years ago but got distracted by my tbr. I like the format and storyline enough to continue but will have to see what challenges arise over the next year. The next several are already bought and in my library.
Deadwood series #2. Paranormal cozy mystery and romance. Best read in series order.
After her recent experience, Violet Parker is now known around Deadwood as being able to talk to ghosts. With her reputation in question, and her bank account low, Violet is desperate to use her real estate license to sell a house. She accepts the contract on a house with a reputation of being haunted, mostly because she really doesn’t have a choice. A positive attitude and the right buyer could get her out of the hole and buy some groceries for her pantry.
The first book sets the tone for the series. Violet and Doc move their relationship to the next level, though Violet hides the fact from Natalie who thinks she’s in love with him. A ghost gets Violet’s attention while her co-worker salesman tries to get Violet to give up.
Fun characters and amusing premise though some stereotypes went a bit overboard.
I read the first many years ago but got distracted by my tbr. I like the format and storyline enough to continue but will have to see what challenges arise over the next year. The next several are already bought and in my library.
January 18, 2017
This series is quickly becoming a favorite. I love all the fun quirky characters but Harvey just might be a favorite. I never laugh more than the times he is speaking or up to something.
Filled with mystery, laughs, romance, heat, and ghosts, and death around every corner, what is there not to love about this series?
Filled with mystery, laughs, romance, heat, and ghosts, and death around every corner, what is there not to love about this series?
August 3, 2024
If I ever played you at chess, I can almost guarantee that I'd beat you.
Once...maybe twice.
The thing is I have a great game of chess, but I only have one game. Extremely decisive to the point of being aggressive. I intimidate people, bulldoze right through them and win. (I once left an Indonesian child prodigy in tears after a game of chess)
But after one or two games you'll have my number and I'll never beat you again.
And that's a bit like this book. I mean it's great, really great....in the same way book one was great. Exactly the same way. It's almost a replica. Different characters, slightly different circumstances but the underlying story is identical.
I think I rated Nearly Departed in Deadwood 5 Stars, and in some ways this book deserves a high rating (it really is great), but it loses points for re-ploughing the same field.
Once...maybe twice.
The thing is I have a great game of chess, but I only have one game. Extremely decisive to the point of being aggressive. I intimidate people, bulldoze right through them and win. (I once left an Indonesian child prodigy in tears after a game of chess)
But after one or two games you'll have my number and I'll never beat you again.
And that's a bit like this book. I mean it's great, really great....in the same way book one was great. Exactly the same way. It's almost a replica. Different characters, slightly different circumstances but the underlying story is identical.
I think I rated Nearly Departed in Deadwood 5 Stars, and in some ways this book deserves a high rating (it really is great), but it loses points for re-ploughing the same field.
September 28, 2018
4.5 stars. This was so good! I read the first in the series and quite liked it. I bought this one but never was motivated enough to start it. Then I read a review from one of my GR friends, who had also 'quite liked' the first book and found the second book much better. This was the shove I needed and am so glad I did! The characters are all great. It's funny, the relationships are great - Natalie, Aunt Zoe, the kids, Doc and Harvey. I loved the ending! What a great segue into the next book.
January 22, 2019
A realtor with a problematic lovelife tries to sell a house reputed to be haunted. Supposed to be a cozy, but there isn't much of a mystery. It's mostly the realtor pining away.
February 20, 2012
Short review: It was original as the first book, the writing is excellent, funny and the secondary characters are fully functional (that is 3 dimensional for professional reviewers:) and the bottom line is that you should get both books and read them when you have one of those "What should I read now" moments because you will feel like you found treasure :) It is probably about a 4.5 Star but I rounded down sine she did not seem to learn a lot after book 1, the character needs to grow a bit more and I think she did FINALLY by the end of the book.
May 5, 2014
Turning out to be a super fun series! On to number 3.
September 9, 2014
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Oh, boy, I think I'm in the minority here but I found this book a little disappointing after the first one. And, it's the so-called "hot" romance between Doc and Violet that is the reason it fell out of favour with me.
It was not so much a romance as simple lust and sex. Both possessed out-of-control hormones that were more suited to sex-crazed teenagers who have never had carnal relations before than two supposedly mature adults. And, unfortunately--for me, anyway--the majority of the book seemed to dwell on this aspect far more than it did the mystery, at least in the beginning. I also didn't like how Violet persisted in deceiving and lying to her best friend, Natalie, about her relationship with Doc. I think it would have been far more hurtful to Natalie to find out about it from someone else than to hear it straight from Violet. Although the way Doc and Violet acted around each other, I'm surprised that Natalie didn't already have an inkling of what was going on between them.
The other thing that irritated me about Doc was his bossy, overbearing attitude toward Violet at times. Just because they had sex a couple of times, he seemed to think that gave him the right to try and control her behaviour and tell her what she could and couldn't do.
Willis Harvey, irreverent, potty-mouthed and hilarious, was the saving grace in the book. I just love that crazy old buzzard! And, Violet's two kids, Addy and Layne, were still a handful of mischievious fun. I just wish we had seen more of them and less of Violet's sex-starved antics! :)
The last part of the book grabbed my interest once more with plenty of action and thrills as the mystery came to a dramatic conclusion.
Despite my disappointment in this one, I still intend on continuing with the series, especially after the intriguing phone call from Harvey at the end!
Oh, boy, I think I'm in the minority here but I found this book a little disappointing after the first one. And, it's the so-called "hot" romance between Doc and Violet that is the reason it fell out of favour with me.
It was not so much a romance as simple lust and sex. Both possessed out-of-control hormones that were more suited to sex-crazed teenagers who have never had carnal relations before than two supposedly mature adults. And, unfortunately--for me, anyway--the majority of the book seemed to dwell on this aspect far more than it did the mystery, at least in the beginning. I also didn't like how Violet persisted in deceiving and lying to her best friend, Natalie, about her relationship with Doc. I think it would have been far more hurtful to Natalie to find out about it from someone else than to hear it straight from Violet. Although the way Doc and Violet acted around each other, I'm surprised that Natalie didn't already have an inkling of what was going on between them.
The other thing that irritated me about Doc was his bossy, overbearing attitude toward Violet at times. Just because they had sex a couple of times, he seemed to think that gave him the right to try and control her behaviour and tell her what she could and couldn't do.
Willis Harvey, irreverent, potty-mouthed and hilarious, was the saving grace in the book. I just love that crazy old buzzard! And, Violet's two kids, Addy and Layne, were still a handful of mischievious fun. I just wish we had seen more of them and less of Violet's sex-starved antics! :)
The last part of the book grabbed my interest once more with plenty of action and thrills as the mystery came to a dramatic conclusion.
Despite my disappointment in this one, I still intend on continuing with the series, especially after the intriguing phone call from Harvey at the end!
August 27, 2011
Optical Delusions in Deadwood is the second installment in the Deadwood Mystery series by Ann Charles.
When I read Nearly Departed in Deadwood,( Deadwood Mystery, #1) I know I was going to be hooked on this series. I loved the characters, mystery, suspense, comedy and especially the romance.
Violet is a mother of two adorable kids with active imaginations. When she's not being a mother, she's a realtor. When she's not being a realtor(or even when she is), she's fighting with ghosts(if she even believes in that sort of thing) and when she's not fighting with ghosts she's trying to have a love life. Although, lately, everything seems to be intertwined for her.
The characters are awesome. Old man Harvey is a hoot, Doc is sizzling and Natalie is fun! We have some new characters in this novel, some you'll like, some... not so much. ;) You'll know who I'm talking about. Oh, and then there's Ray. Can you say scum?
Poor Violet, she has it rough. She's low on cash, her somewhat boyfriend is keeping secrets, she's keeping secrets from her best friend and the only house worth selling is haunted and owned by a very disturbing family. Making it out of this mess in one piece is going to be hard. What's Violet to do? Well, she'll take old man Harvey out of their weekly dinner, of that she's sure. Other than that, you'll have to read and find out!
When I read Nearly Departed in Deadwood,( Deadwood Mystery, #1) I know I was going to be hooked on this series. I loved the characters, mystery, suspense, comedy and especially the romance.
Violet is a mother of two adorable kids with active imaginations. When she's not being a mother, she's a realtor. When she's not being a realtor(or even when she is), she's fighting with ghosts(if she even believes in that sort of thing) and when she's not fighting with ghosts she's trying to have a love life. Although, lately, everything seems to be intertwined for her.
The characters are awesome. Old man Harvey is a hoot, Doc is sizzling and Natalie is fun! We have some new characters in this novel, some you'll like, some... not so much. ;) You'll know who I'm talking about. Oh, and then there's Ray. Can you say scum?
Poor Violet, she has it rough. She's low on cash, her somewhat boyfriend is keeping secrets, she's keeping secrets from her best friend and the only house worth selling is haunted and owned by a very disturbing family. Making it out of this mess in one piece is going to be hard. What's Violet to do? Well, she'll take old man Harvey out of their weekly dinner, of that she's sure. Other than that, you'll have to read and find out!
Read
July 6, 2020RATING: 4.25 STARS
I am totally digging Violet, Doc, Harvey, Cooper, Aunt Zoe and the rest of the characters of Deadwood.
Throw in a mystery, sexual tension, boots knocking, the office meanie, some paranormal and you have a fun recipe for a solid series.
Nice easy reads.
I love that Ann's son is the artist for the cover designs.
Fave male character has to be Harvey. He is the salt of the earth.
Fave hunky character... Doc, of course!
I am totally digging Violet, Doc, Harvey, Cooper, Aunt Zoe and the rest of the characters of Deadwood.
Throw in a mystery, sexual tension, boots knocking, the office meanie, some paranormal and you have a fun recipe for a solid series.
Nice easy reads.
I love that Ann's son is the artist for the cover designs.
Fave male character has to be Harvey. He is the salt of the earth.
Fave hunky character... Doc, of course!
July 28, 2018
Story 2 Narration 2. Wow, where to start on this one. let's start with Ray, Violet's co-worker, I get it he's supposed to be obnoxious. But am I supposed to believe that there are women who will tolerate someone walking in the door and yelling 'hey slut' at them in the workplace? There may be, and if so they are imbeciles. This is tolerated ostensibly because he sells a lot of homes. This makes Violet's boss, Jane, also an imbecile, because tolerating that kind of behavior in the workplace opens you up to all kinds of liability.
One of my pet peeves are characters who do incredibly stupid things in order to move the plot along. This series seems to rely on this plot device in spades. Two books and Violet has already put herself in mortal danger twice. That is just boring.
This is considered a mystery/romance which means it will include some obligatory sex scenes, which it does and they are truly cringe worthy.
As for some other characters: Harvey is kind of a crusty old coot who can be funny. Also he is thankfully Violet's only client who isn't trying to get her into bed or kill her (the jury is still out on Coop). Doc, the ghost sniffing love interest, is apparently so hot that Violet would have sex with him even in public. Always a good career move. Then there's Natalie, the best friend since childhood. She is also quite pathetic. To start off she is supposed to be some kind of contractor, but she was on top of a tin roof in cowboy boots and is currently in a cast. Maybe it's just me, but I wouldn't hire someone who went on a roof in cowboy boots. The 'I'm cute and flirt with everyone' can only get you so far. Then there's her 'relationship' with Doc that is only in her head. Violet and Nat have all the maturity of twelve year olds. What exactly does Doc see in Violet other than that she is blond?
On the positive side, it did have some laughs. There are still hints of ghosts,but nothing too overt.
I almost got all the way through this one then there was another tedious sex scene. At least it was at the end so i could skip it.
One of my pet peeves are characters who do incredibly stupid things in order to move the plot along. This series seems to rely on this plot device in spades. Two books and Violet has already put herself in mortal danger twice. That is just boring.
This is considered a mystery/romance which means it will include some obligatory sex scenes, which it does and they are truly cringe worthy.
As for some other characters: Harvey is kind of a crusty old coot who can be funny. Also he is thankfully Violet's only client who isn't trying to get her into bed or kill her (the jury is still out on Coop). Doc, the ghost sniffing love interest, is apparently so hot that Violet would have sex with him even in public. Always a good career move. Then there's Natalie, the best friend since childhood. She is also quite pathetic. To start off she is supposed to be some kind of contractor, but she was on top of a tin roof in cowboy boots and is currently in a cast. Maybe it's just me, but I wouldn't hire someone who went on a roof in cowboy boots. The 'I'm cute and flirt with everyone' can only get you so far. Then there's her 'relationship' with Doc that is only in her head. Violet and Nat have all the maturity of twelve year olds. What exactly does Doc see in Violet other than that she is blond?
On the positive side, it did have some laughs. There are still hints of ghosts,but nothing too overt.
I almost got all the way through this one then there was another tedious sex scene. At least it was at the end so i could skip it.
August 26, 2019
Now that was a total surprise! I had read so many rave reviews about this series that I bought the first three instalments on a whim. The problem is, I didn't like the first instalment at all: I thought the book was badly written, didn't like the plot or any of the characters... I actually didn't finish the book which was quite a disappointment since I expected to enjoy it a lot.
Well, I let some time pass and, having bought two more books in the series I decide to give the second instalment a try, just to be sure. So imagine my surprise when I found myself absolutely loving it! Great story, wacky characters, fun writing... A very enjoyable read!
I am now officially hooked on this series and can't wait to read the next instalments :)
• Book 1: Nearly Departed in Deadwood ★★
• Book 3: Dead Case in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 4: Better Off Dead in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 5: An Ex to Grind in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 6: Meanwhile Back In Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 7: A Wild Fright in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 8: Rattling the Heat in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 9: Gone Haunting in Deadwood ★★★
· Book 10: Don't Let it Snow in Deadwood ★★
Well, I let some time pass and, having bought two more books in the series I decide to give the second instalment a try, just to be sure. So imagine my surprise when I found myself absolutely loving it! Great story, wacky characters, fun writing... A very enjoyable read!
I am now officially hooked on this series and can't wait to read the next instalments :)
• Book 1: Nearly Departed in Deadwood ★★
• Book 3: Dead Case in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 4: Better Off Dead in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 5: An Ex to Grind in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 6: Meanwhile Back In Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 7: A Wild Fright in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 8: Rattling the Heat in Deadwood ★★★★
• Book 9: Gone Haunting in Deadwood ★★★
· Book 10: Don't Let it Snow in Deadwood ★★
February 28, 2013
The second book was just as enjoyable as the first. If I'm completely honest, my favorite character is "Old Man Harvey". I love his character. Just hope that not everyone in Deadwood and Leads end up dead!
May 8, 2017
The Deadwood series is a classical cozy. You have a little town with its cast of quirky characters, where the main protagonists solves a crime.
The quirky characters function as the comic reliefs, a role which in this series falls mainly to grumpy senior citizen Harvey with the heart of gold (both with his stories about his sexual exploits and his role as a busybody that can't keep a secret) and Violet's children (in this volume that wants to set Violet up with her best friends dad). And of course there is sleazy Ray again.
For a cozy the crime of the first book was somewhat gruesome (a tea party with desiccated corpses). Here Violet wants to sell a house were a murder homicide was committed. Normally there is a good reason why the main protagonists wants to solve said crime. E.g. a close friend is a suspect or he/she found the body and is a suspect herself. In this particular novel it is completely unclear, why Violet wants to solve the crime so badly. She doesn't even show idle curiosity and who committed the crime has no effect on selling the house. But in doing so, she puts her life in danger (again) and angers her friends. So why does she do it.
Personally I also didn't like the conclusion was a little unsatisfying. You are told who committed the crime and even the motivation behind it, but there are some unanswered questions.
Another thing that bothered me, are dropped plots, mainly two: for one, the killer(s) mention(s) a previous victim. However, this is all readers ever hear about that. Furthermore, there is the mystery of the boxes shipped by Ray and the owner of the funeral parlor (though that might be picked up in a later volume).
The book is called optical delusions as it is still unclear whether there really are ghosts (as the majority of Deadwood's residents seem to believe, even guys such as Ray) or whether Doc and the house owner are just plain crazy.
Speaking of Doc. In most cozies the main protagonists has a romantic interest, who is either in law enforcement or helps her solve the crimes. Doc with his ability to see ghosts potentially falls int he latter category, though he doesn't really use that ability in that capacity yet. Aside from this, Doc's main draw seems to be his hotness, because he isn't actually a very likeable character. Especially his hot and cold act is rather annoying. I do hope that later books will try to make him more interesting or replace him with another love interest (though I hate love triangles and there aren't any real alternatives besides Cooper, who doesn't seem particularly interested in Violet).
Speaking of character. Natalie is a great friend and Violet keeping quiet about her involvement with Doc bothers me a lot. Especially as Natalie's fixation on the guy is also based on his looks as she knows absolutely nothing about him.
On a final note: Kelly's father turned his entire life around because of his crush on Violet. The guy is a little creepy, especially his sleazy come-on. However, this shows kind of a bleak future for Kelly, once he finally gets it through his head that Violet isn't interested in him. Sort of depressing. I would have hoped that he cared more for his child than for some random stranger.
Overall, the series isn't a bad read, but there are a lot of cozies out there and this still isn't one of my favorites.
The quirky characters function as the comic reliefs, a role which in this series falls mainly to grumpy senior citizen Harvey with the heart of gold (both with his stories about his sexual exploits and his role as a busybody that can't keep a secret) and Violet's children (in this volume that wants to set Violet up with her best friends dad). And of course there is sleazy Ray again.
For a cozy the crime of the first book was somewhat gruesome (a tea party with desiccated corpses). Here Violet wants to sell a house were a murder homicide was committed. Normally there is a good reason why the main protagonists wants to solve said crime. E.g. a close friend is a suspect or he/she found the body and is a suspect herself. In this particular novel it is completely unclear, why Violet wants to solve the crime so badly. She doesn't even show idle curiosity and who committed the crime has no effect on selling the house. But in doing so, she puts her life in danger (again) and angers her friends. So why does she do it.
Personally I also didn't like the conclusion was a little unsatisfying. You are told who committed the crime and even the motivation behind it, but there are some unanswered questions.
Another thing that bothered me, are dropped plots, mainly two: for one, the killer(s) mention(s) a previous victim. However, this is all readers ever hear about that. Furthermore, there is the mystery of the boxes shipped by Ray and the owner of the funeral parlor (though that might be picked up in a later volume).
The book is called optical delusions as it is still unclear whether there really are ghosts (as the majority of Deadwood's residents seem to believe, even guys such as Ray) or whether Doc and the house owner are just plain crazy.
Speaking of Doc. In most cozies the main protagonists has a romantic interest, who is either in law enforcement or helps her solve the crimes. Doc with his ability to see ghosts potentially falls int he latter category, though he doesn't really use that ability in that capacity yet. Aside from this, Doc's main draw seems to be his hotness, because he isn't actually a very likeable character. Especially his hot and cold act is rather annoying. I do hope that later books will try to make him more interesting or replace him with another love interest (though I hate love triangles and there aren't any real alternatives besides Cooper, who doesn't seem particularly interested in Violet).
Speaking of character. Natalie is a great friend and Violet keeping quiet about her involvement with Doc bothers me a lot. Especially as Natalie's fixation on the guy is also based on his looks as she knows absolutely nothing about him.
On a final note: Kelly's father turned his entire life around because of his crush on Violet. The guy is a little creepy, especially his sleazy come-on. However, this shows kind of a bleak future for Kelly, once he finally gets it through his head that Violet isn't interested in him. Sort of depressing. I would have hoped that he cared more for his child than for some random stranger.
Overall, the series isn't a bad read, but there are a lot of cozies out there and this still isn't one of my favorites.
November 5, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book.
Pros:
the mystery was interesting
the supernatural aspect is intriguing - it does seem like the author isn't sure what to do with this,
the side characters are great. I love Harvey, Doc, Mona and Aunt Zoe. Even the potential buyers are okay
Cons:
The main character is very whiny and so full of insecurities that it is exhausting.
Also, she hasn't told her best friend about her relationship with Doc. So her best friend still thinks she has a chance with him. How are you best friends with someone for 20 years and you are this dishonest with them? Then Violet's a victim of vandalism and she actually considers that it could be her best friend.
The main character continues to make "mean girl" comments any time there is another pretty woman. Sometimes it is justified but, Violet makes the comments before knowing about the personality.
She continues with the out dated pop culture references. I'm close to her age and these are comments that my dad would make.
I will read the next book b/c I like the sass and the side characters and there are a few free on audible and I am stuck working from home. The narrator is okay for these stories. the only complaint is she laughs when a character laughs but, the narrator does a creepy laugh each time.
Pros:
the mystery was interesting
the supernatural aspect is intriguing - it does seem like the author isn't sure what to do with this,
the side characters are great. I love Harvey, Doc, Mona and Aunt Zoe. Even the potential buyers are okay
Cons:
The main character is very whiny and so full of insecurities that it is exhausting.
Also, she hasn't told her best friend about her relationship with Doc. So her best friend still thinks she has a chance with him. How are you best friends with someone for 20 years and you are this dishonest with them? Then Violet's a victim of vandalism and she actually considers that it could be her best friend.
The main character continues to make "mean girl" comments any time there is another pretty woman. Sometimes it is justified but, Violet makes the comments before knowing about the personality.
She continues with the out dated pop culture references. I'm close to her age and these are comments that my dad would make.
I will read the next book b/c I like the sass and the side characters and there are a few free on audible and I am stuck working from home. The narrator is okay for these stories. the only complaint is she laughs when a character laughs but, the narrator does a creepy laugh each time.
May 22, 2017
This second book in Charles' Deadwood series featuring failing real estate agent Violet along with a huge cast of quirky small town characters follows the same format as book 1. Violet becomes involved in a murder investigation through curiosity and snooping while trying to sell a house everyone believes is haunted. General high jinks ensue, most of which are seriously funny with just enough dark edge from the mystery to keep it from being cheesy. I'm enjoying the series for entertainment purposes only and plan to continue. However, this is the perfect example of how I don't have to like a main character to still enjoy a book. Violet is a narcissistic Mary Sue while also, at times, being a doormat with an inability to say no. I don't get her or like her, but as so much of her disordered personality drives the humorous parts of the plot (and she is great with the witty, sarcastic dialog), I can stand her long enough to get through each book. Hopes for character development drive me onward.
July 19, 2020
4.5 Stars... I am so glad I returned to this series... Violet Parker is attempting to overcome her past near death experience with her insane client, only to find herself embroiled in a new opportunity to sell yet another "haunted" house... Not wanting to be known as the ghost whisperer of her small town but in desperate need of the money, Violet sets out to make the sale... When an unsolved murder and an unsettled spirit come into the mix, things really take a turn for the worse for our unlikely heroine... Add in the mysterious yet undeniably sexy Doc Nyce , the potential betrayal of her best friend, two high spirited and mischievous children, one cantankerous bodyguard, a low life co-worker, and a stand-offish detective, and Violet's life goes from a bit crazy to OUT OF CONTROL... A great mix of laughs, family, friendship, mystery, and a touch of paranormal to round out this fun and fascinating read:)
June 4, 2021
This was book 2 of in the
"Deadwood"
series. This was a really good read I am loving listening to this ghostly funny series. Violet Parker is attempting to overcome her past near death experience with her insane client, only to find herself embroiled in a new opportunity to sell yet another "haunted" house. Not wanting to be known as the ghost whisperer of her small town but in desperate need of the money, Violet sets out to make the sale. Her life gets crazy she has an office mate who hates her a bodyguard who is moody and there is the detective who doesn't want to get to close. She is a single mother of twins who are also funny. Her life gets even weirder with an unsolved murder and some unsettled ghost it makes for one sweet crazy book that I listened to. I am looking forward to listening to the next book.
December 3, 2018
Violet manages to find another "haunted" house to sell against everyone's advice.
What I enjoyed:
* Harvey is a hoot!
* Doc is a pretty interesting character/love interest
What could have been better:
* Violet. She seems a mediocre mother at best. I think she was with her twins maybe 2% of the entire book, pretty soon they will be calling Aunt Zoe - Mom. Plus she had her grade-school son come to her office (not in walking distance) to help her open a box and sent him home again by himself. So did he hitchhike? And she is an even worse best friend
* What is up with this town?
Still have two more in the series I got for free, so will mostly likely read them at some point.
What I enjoyed:
* Harvey is a hoot!
* Doc is a pretty interesting character/love interest
What could have been better:
* Violet. She seems a mediocre mother at best. I think she was with her twins maybe 2% of the entire book, pretty soon they will be calling Aunt Zoe - Mom. Plus she had her grade-school son come to her office (not in walking distance) to help her open a box and sent him home again by himself. So did he hitchhike? And she is an even worse best friend
* What is up with this town?
Still have two more in the series I got for free, so will mostly likely read them at some point.
December 16, 2022
This is the second book in the deadwood mysteries series. This book did not disappoint. I got to know the characters that I have already met deeper. I got to meet new characters too. Another good mystery and an arc is forming between the books so I think each is a mystery within a big overall plot. Still loving the author’s witty writing style. Identifies with women in their 30’s with kids as well. I’m not too old to remember those days yet. The main character has a great strong, funny, grounded personality.
May 21, 2022
interesting. I dont really find a kinship with fmc at this stage. She makes heaps of stupid decisions, including what shes doing with doc and not telling her best friend making her look like a fool.
Ill continue the series because its good enough to continue with the series.
listened via audio, audio narrator was good.
Ill continue the series because its good enough to continue with the series.
listened via audio, audio narrator was good.
December 12, 2023
Better than a standard cozy mystery, but I can't really elaborate how. It may be then again, the characters are well defined and consistent. Or, it may just be that I liked it better I assume not that much in favor of the amount of romance, but oh well. I guess that I'm just not in favor of reading about sex and having the actual physical aspects thrown at me. But I enjoyed the book overall.
January 11, 2024
Much better pacing and much more tension. I need Doc and Violet forever together!!
I guessed part of the mystery but TBH I just care about Doc and Violet. 😅😅
I guessed part of the mystery but TBH I just care about Doc and Violet. 😅😅
July 7, 2024
Great book!! I could not put it down!! I will be reading all the other books in this series!!
April 27, 2021
I Love Harvey
That old coot is a riot! I love everyone's interactions. The dynamics that have been built. I am extremely curious about her aunt and Reed. Great quick novel and so much fun.
That old coot is a riot! I love everyone's interactions. The dynamics that have been built. I am extremely curious about her aunt and Reed. Great quick novel and so much fun.
February 14, 2013
I had no idea when I started this series that I'd enjoy it so much that I'd want to jump straight into book 2 with barely a break. But I do! And I did! And now we're here, spending more time with Violet and her accidentally trouble making ways.
This book started off a little slower than book 1 (you can read that as "I didn't almost snort my coffee out my nose within the first few pages as I did with the first book") and it took a bit of time to build up to the real meat of the mystery. This wasn't particularly bothersome since Violet's trademark snark was present in spades. No lie Violet's banter with all those who crossed her path was FUN. And the secondary characters... good gravy! I just love the people who are gravitating into her orbit. From her daughter's best friend's skeevy dad (who wants to sow some wild oats with Violet because she seems ripe for his plow -- O.O) to Harvey (who says exactly what he's thinking in the most innuendo laden way possible) to sexy Doc Nyce (*purr*) -- they all make this book shine. Between the gossip, the ghosts, and the sexual exploits of Harvey as he seduces all the over-60 ladies in town, there's something for everyone.
Probably the only thing that bothered me is the Violet/Natalie issue. While I understand why Violet is hesitant to break the news that she and Doc have definite sparks to Natalie (who dreamily swears up and down that Doc is "the one" and called dibs on him in book 1), the fact that Violet can't keep her hands to herself or her panties on when Doc is nearby needs to be admitted to. Soon. Just open up and tell the girl, Violet. The longer you wait, the worse it will be. *taps foot* DO IT!
Highly enjoyable, highly entertaining, with the added bonus of a very nice set-up for the mystery Violet will be dealing with in book 3. I really loved that several of the threads that were laid out in book 1 (the finding of random severed body parts in places they shouldn't be, Ray's extra-curricular activities/business/smuggling operation/etc with the boys at the funeral parlor) were touched upon here. Seeing that sort of continuity makes me giddy.
I will likely be reading book 3 shortly so I can continue to get my fix of snark, sassy realtors, sexy financial planners, and ghosts.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Optical Illusions in Deadwood was a free Kindle book I downloaded on 03/15/12 for the Why Buy the Cow? reading challenge.
This book started off a little slower than book 1 (you can read that as "I didn't almost snort my coffee out my nose within the first few pages as I did with the first book") and it took a bit of time to build up to the real meat of the mystery. This wasn't particularly bothersome since Violet's trademark snark was present in spades. No lie Violet's banter with all those who crossed her path was FUN. And the secondary characters... good gravy! I just love the people who are gravitating into her orbit. From her daughter's best friend's skeevy dad (who wants to sow some wild oats with Violet because she seems ripe for his plow -- O.O) to Harvey (who says exactly what he's thinking in the most innuendo laden way possible) to sexy Doc Nyce (*purr*) -- they all make this book shine. Between the gossip, the ghosts, and the sexual exploits of Harvey as he seduces all the over-60 ladies in town, there's something for everyone.
Probably the only thing that bothered me is the Violet/Natalie issue. While I understand why Violet is hesitant to break the news that she and Doc have definite sparks to Natalie (who dreamily swears up and down that Doc is "the one" and called dibs on him in book 1), the fact that Violet can't keep her hands to herself or her panties on when Doc is nearby needs to be admitted to. Soon. Just open up and tell the girl, Violet. The longer you wait, the worse it will be. *taps foot* DO IT!
Highly enjoyable, highly entertaining, with the added bonus of a very nice set-up for the mystery Violet will be dealing with in book 3. I really loved that several of the threads that were laid out in book 1 (the finding of random severed body parts in places they shouldn't be, Ray's extra-curricular activities/business/smuggling operation/etc with the boys at the funeral parlor) were touched upon here. Seeing that sort of continuity makes me giddy.
I will likely be reading book 3 shortly so I can continue to get my fix of snark, sassy realtors, sexy financial planners, and ghosts.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Optical Illusions in Deadwood was a free Kindle book I downloaded on 03/15/12 for the Why Buy the Cow? reading challenge.
July 4, 2012
I am thoroughly angry.
Swearing happens. I am not a prude. In times of stress, a character needs to spit some heat. But when an author uses language to define a major character, I find it a cheap cheat. When a character swears over the top to be offensive, I find it boring. When an author uses offensive language as a ploy for humor I get irritated. Cheating, offended and boring sprinkled through a few areas of the book's beginning, but I continued reading because I had invested in the plot and characters. Ms. Charles wrote an excellent first novel. Near the end however, I was shocked at how awful things got. It wasn't how much she swore, but the choice of words she used. The author could have just used F*** and been done. I dropped the book, but researched the author for her third book in the series. In my research of other readers, I found I agreed with their irritations toward immature character responses and plot arcs. Swearing isn't the only reason I put this author down.
What made me truly angry, was jumping into a favorite author to clear my mind of character cheats, Offensive language and boring stereotypes, and having the first four chapters of a great story ruined.
When I defensively struggle through one author's amazing writing because another author has irritated and offended me...that just pisses me off.
Color Deadwood a hole to avoid.
Swearing happens. I am not a prude. In times of stress, a character needs to spit some heat. But when an author uses language to define a major character, I find it a cheap cheat. When a character swears over the top to be offensive, I find it boring. When an author uses offensive language as a ploy for humor I get irritated. Cheating, offended and boring sprinkled through a few areas of the book's beginning, but I continued reading because I had invested in the plot and characters. Ms. Charles wrote an excellent first novel. Near the end however, I was shocked at how awful things got. It wasn't how much she swore, but the choice of words she used. The author could have just used F*** and been done. I dropped the book, but researched the author for her third book in the series. In my research of other readers, I found I agreed with their irritations toward immature character responses and plot arcs. Swearing isn't the only reason I put this author down.
What made me truly angry, was jumping into a favorite author to clear my mind of character cheats, Offensive language and boring stereotypes, and having the first four chapters of a great story ruined.
When I defensively struggle through one author's amazing writing because another author has irritated and offended me...that just pisses me off.
Color Deadwood a hole to avoid.
May 9, 2011
An exciting trip back to Deadwood to visit with Violet-real-estate extraordinaire/part-time sleuth. This time with ghostly encounters in the mix. I liked how the story started just a short time after the first book ends. A rollicking romp through the streets of Deadwood sprinkled with sexual innuendo from Harvey,Violet's cantankerous friend to the steamy romance scenes between Doc & Violet. It all mixes together like lemons and sugar to make an inventive lemonade. I absolutely love Violet's eccentric kids. They remind me of some of the shenanigans of my children:)
The sexual tension between Doc & Violet left me with the desire to shake the two of them and say get with it and get together:)
The ghostly twist whet my appetite, wondering what other experiences are waiting in the wings for Violet and will she finally become a believer?
Another fun read that left me smiling. The ending left me anxiously awaiting book 3.
Bravo, Ann Charles for your wit and humor. Your masterful storytelling makes this a gem to read.
I recommend this book to readers who like mysteries, romance, with a dash of paranormal.
The sexual tension between Doc & Violet left me with the desire to shake the two of them and say get with it and get together:)
The ghostly twist whet my appetite, wondering what other experiences are waiting in the wings for Violet and will she finally become a believer?
Another fun read that left me smiling. The ending left me anxiously awaiting book 3.
Bravo, Ann Charles for your wit and humor. Your masterful storytelling makes this a gem to read.
I recommend this book to readers who like mysteries, romance, with a dash of paranormal.
July 10, 2011
If you enjoyed Nearly Departed in Deadwood, you'll love this! More suspense, more mystery, more romance. It's another hit by Ann Charles. Violet is one of my favorite heroines and she does not disappoint in this second instalment of the Deadwood Mystery Series.
In Optical Delusions in Deadwood, Violet Parker is neck deep in trouble with haunted homes, psychos trying to hurt her and a disapproving Doc Nyce. But we get a whole lot more heat between Doc and Violet this time around.
Besides the great pace of the book, sizzling mystery and witty banter, Violet is growing as a character. And I love me some character development, it's what keeps me hooked in a series. Violet is starting to realize that being a mother doesn't mean she has to sacrifice her happiness all the time.
I'm looking forward to the next book, Dead Case in Deadwood, which should be available in early 2012.
In Optical Delusions in Deadwood, Violet Parker is neck deep in trouble with haunted homes, psychos trying to hurt her and a disapproving Doc Nyce. But we get a whole lot more heat between Doc and Violet this time around.
Besides the great pace of the book, sizzling mystery and witty banter, Violet is growing as a character. And I love me some character development, it's what keeps me hooked in a series. Violet is starting to realize that being a mother doesn't mean she has to sacrifice her happiness all the time.
I'm looking forward to the next book, Dead Case in Deadwood, which should be available in early 2012.
February 5, 2014
I'm sorry but the quirky character Harvey and Violet's children just aren't charming enough to redeem these books.
Frankly, I don't care for the Violet character.
She lies. A lot. To everyone.
And then justifies every lie.
I don't mind a flawed character....but I need some growth.
I just don't care if Violet does.
Then we have the situation with Doc and Natalie.
I think the major mystery of these books is "Why is Violet's best friend, Natalie, in love with Doc and think he's the "ONE"?"
She hadn't even hardly had a conversation with the man, when she's declaring him off limits to Violet and that she thinks he's the one. And what does Violet do? Has sex with Doc. I get it....they can't help themselves-true lust and all that. It's still wrong.
I've read some reviews of #3 and #4.....more of the same.
If these first two books work for you....then I guess #3 and #4 will as well.
#1 was ok and #2 became a chore for me to finish. I'm not interested in reading any further.
Frankly, I don't care for the Violet character.
She lies. A lot. To everyone.
And then justifies every lie.
I don't mind a flawed character....but I need some growth.
I just don't care if Violet does.
Then we have the situation with Doc and Natalie.
I think the major mystery of these books is "Why is Violet's best friend, Natalie, in love with Doc and think he's the "ONE"?"
She hadn't even hardly had a conversation with the man, when she's declaring him off limits to Violet and that she thinks he's the one. And what does Violet do? Has sex with Doc. I get it....they can't help themselves-true lust and all that. It's still wrong.
I've read some reviews of #3 and #4.....more of the same.
If these first two books work for you....then I guess #3 and #4 will as well.
#1 was ok and #2 became a chore for me to finish. I'm not interested in reading any further.
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