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Charley Davidson #9
The Dirt on Ninth Grave
In a small village in New York lives Jane Doe, a girl with no memory of who she is or where she came from. So when she is working at a diner and slowly begins to realize she can see dead people, she's more than a little taken aback. Stranger still are the people entering her life. They seem to know things about her. Things they hide with lies and half-truths. Soon, she senses something far darker. A force that wants to cause her harm, she is sure of it. Her saving grace comes in the form of a new friend she feels she can confide in and the fry cook, a devastatingly handsome man whose smile is breathtaking and touch is scalding. He stays close, and she almost feels safe with him around.
But no one can outrun their past, and the more lies that swirl around her-even from her new and trusted friends-the more disoriented she becomes, until she is confronted by a man who claims to have been sent to kill her. Sent by the darkest force in the universe. A force that absolutely will not stop until she is dead. Thankfully, she has a Rottweiler. But that doesn't help in her quest to find her identity and recover what she's lost. That will take all her courage and a touch of the power she feels flowing like electricity through her veins. She almost feels sorry for him. The devil in blue jeans. The disarming fry cook who lies with every breath he takes. She will get to the bottom of what he knows if it kills her. Or him. Either way.
But no one can outrun their past, and the more lies that swirl around her-even from her new and trusted friends-the more disoriented she becomes, until she is confronted by a man who claims to have been sent to kill her. Sent by the darkest force in the universe. A force that absolutely will not stop until she is dead. Thankfully, she has a Rottweiler. But that doesn't help in her quest to find her identity and recover what she's lost. That will take all her courage and a touch of the power she feels flowing like electricity through her veins. She almost feels sorry for him. The devil in blue jeans. The disarming fry cook who lies with every breath he takes. She will get to the bottom of what he knows if it kills her. Or him. Either way.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2016
783 people are currently reading
9276 people want to read
About the author
Darynda Jones
57 books16.5k followersNYTimes and USA Today Bestselling Author Darynda Jones has won numerous awards for her work, including a prestigious RITA, a Golden Heart, and a Daphne du Maurier, and her books have been translated into 17 languages. As a born storyteller, Darynda grew up spinning tales of dashing damsels and heroes in distress for any unfortunate soul who happened by, certain they went away the better for it. She penned the international bestselling Charley Davidson series and is currently working on several beloved projects, most notably the Sunshine Vicram Mystery Series with St. Martin's Press and the Betwixt and Between Series of paranormal women's fiction. She lives in the Land of Enchantment, also known as New Mexico, with her husband and two beautiful sons, the Mighty, Mighty Jones Boys.
Click here to read one of the more popular short stories by Darynda called The Monster:
https://theneverneath.com/2018/02/02/...
She can be found at http://www.daryndajones.com
Click here to read one of the more popular short stories by Darynda called The Monster:
https://theneverneath.com/2018/02/02/...
She can be found at http://www.daryndajones.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,057 reviews
January 11, 2016
3.5 Welcome back Reyes stars
Have you ever been reading a long running series and thought…’This might be it. This might be when I need to break up with you. Maybe it’s me, but no…I think it is probably you.’ I felt that way after Eighth Grave After Dark. The entire baby drama and some of the silliness that happened (I fell into a well and had a baby) and uber lovey dovey Reyes *barf* and plot hole issues (the hell hounds…nuff said)…I had many. But then you are like ’I’ve loved these characters for so long, I’m gonna give them one more chance….just one more shot to see if this can work for me.’ Well that is what I did and I’m glad. I might not be as in love with this series as I was in book one and book FIVE *fans-self* but I’m coming closer and I have all that hope back that this series will end in a big bang instead of a whimper.
*spoilers will be present for previous books*
Let’s just admit that this start out a little like a daytime soap, I mean Charley has amnesia and while slightly annoying and maybe a bit plot devicey it facilitated some things that I really enjoyed:
① - It put a ton of sexual tension back in the air. *fans-self* I needed this…especially after the last book.
② - It gave a different dimension to Charley…If she didn’t know who she was and what she is capable of would she make the same choices to help people or would she choose a different life for herself?
③ - Her journey to come to terms with what she lost or gave up and how much she hates herself on some level for her perceived failure was heartbreaking at times.
④ - The way she eventually gets her memory back….come on you knew it had to happen. But I dare you to guess how…I double dog dare you and whatever you think happens I bet you are wrong. I will say that the moment she got her memories back I cried. I was totally overwhelmed with emotion.
This was back to some of the things about the Charley Daniels series that I really like. Charley acting a little A.D.D. and trying to solve some case but seeming to get in a little trouble here and there along the way. Reyes being all tall, dark, handsome and a little on the hot yet a little angry side. Banter between Charley and Cookie is still in top form and even thought I missed Amber in this the girl power of it was still alive and strong. And as always the beginning chapter quotes always crack me up.
Most Improved Character REYES….
I wasn’t sure I was ever going to love him again after Eighth Gave After Dark. He really lost something in that book for me as he was more of a lovesick puppy protector than the badass son of Satan. But here he has complex emotions and is way more three dimensional. After telling Charley her name she went *poof* and totally forgot who she was. While he loves her, he is so angry she left him…forgot him and I would be too Reyes is unforgettable. But he has pulled all of her friends together to work around her in some capacity until she is ready to remember. As they are getting to know each other again I really felt his pain, anger and love as he tried to give her time but at the same time wants her back so much. It was a bit heartbreaking but also a lot of fun to read them circling each other again.
For me this series seems to be back on track. There was the mystery happening in this world, the added supernatural mystery that amnesia Charley didn’t realize she was there for and then the big supernatural reveal at the end. It was layered well and I really liked where the story seemed to be heading long term. Reyes you devil you….do you even know all your secrets *giggles*.
So right now I’m still dating this series and we’ll see where it goes. I don’t think we are getting married or anything yet but we might be moving back into the heavy petting stage again soon. I’ll just take it as book 8 was a first fight and now we are making up.
Je t’ai aimée pendant mille et un. –R.
I’ve loved you for a thousand and one. –R.
Have you ever been reading a long running series and thought…’This might be it. This might be when I need to break up with you. Maybe it’s me, but no…I think it is probably you.’ I felt that way after Eighth Grave After Dark. The entire baby drama and some of the silliness that happened (I fell into a well and had a baby) and uber lovey dovey Reyes *barf* and plot hole issues (the hell hounds…nuff said)…I had many. But then you are like ’I’ve loved these characters for so long, I’m gonna give them one more chance….just one more shot to see if this can work for me.’ Well that is what I did and I’m glad. I might not be as in love with this series as I was in book one and book FIVE *fans-self* but I’m coming closer and I have all that hope back that this series will end in a big bang instead of a whimper.
*spoilers will be present for previous books*
Let’s just admit that this start out a little like a daytime soap, I mean Charley has amnesia and while slightly annoying and maybe a bit plot devicey it facilitated some things that I really enjoyed:
① - It put a ton of sexual tension back in the air. *fans-self* I needed this…especially after the last book.
② - It gave a different dimension to Charley…If she didn’t know who she was and what she is capable of would she make the same choices to help people or would she choose a different life for herself?
③ - Her journey to come to terms with what she lost or gave up and how much she hates herself on some level for her perceived failure was heartbreaking at times.
I had something once, but I forgot where I put it.
I forgot. I forgot. I forgot.
It was so small. So fragile. Yet it held such power, this tiny thing that I’d promised to protect. It was like a single atom that would someday split and spark a nuclear reaction. It would set the world on fire. It would free the mentally ill. It would ignite the fires of revolution like nothing the human race had ever seen.
And I’d misplaced it.
I’d lost it.
④ - The way she eventually gets her memory back….come on you knew it had to happen. But I dare you to guess how…I double dog dare you and whatever you think happens I bet you are wrong. I will say that the moment she got her memories back I cried. I was totally overwhelmed with emotion.
This was back to some of the things about the Charley Daniels series that I really like. Charley acting a little A.D.D. and trying to solve some case but seeming to get in a little trouble here and there along the way. Reyes being all tall, dark, handsome and a little on the hot yet a little angry side. Banter between Charley and Cookie is still in top form and even thought I missed Amber in this the girl power of it was still alive and strong. And as always the beginning chapter quotes always crack me up.
Signs you drink too much coffee: Your eyes stay open when you sneeze. —internet meme
I don’t understand your specific kind of crazy, But I do admire your commitment to it. —t- shirt
I don’t like making plans for the day. Because then the word “ premeditated” gets thrown around the courtroom. —internet meme
Most Improved Character REYES….
I wasn’t sure I was ever going to love him again after Eighth Gave After Dark. He really lost something in that book for me as he was more of a lovesick puppy protector than the badass son of Satan. But here he has complex emotions and is way more three dimensional. After telling Charley her name she went *poof* and totally forgot who she was. While he loves her, he is so angry she left him…forgot him and I would be too Reyes is unforgettable. But he has pulled all of her friends together to work around her in some capacity until she is ready to remember. As they are getting to know each other again I really felt his pain, anger and love as he tried to give her time but at the same time wants her back so much. It was a bit heartbreaking but also a lot of fun to read them circling each other again.
“I’m still here because you are,” he said matter-of- factly.
Wonderful. Now I felt guilty. “I don’t need a babysitter.”
“That’s good, because no babysitter alive should have the thoughts I have about you.”
And
“No offense, but what on earth could I ask of you that would be a great hardship?”
His gaze rested on my mouth before making its way to my eyes again. “You could ask for the world, and then where would civilization be when I conquered it and laid it at your feet?”
For me this series seems to be back on track. There was the mystery happening in this world, the added supernatural mystery that amnesia Charley didn’t realize she was there for and then the big supernatural reveal at the end. It was layered well and I really liked where the story seemed to be heading long term. Reyes you devil you….do you even know all your secrets *giggles*.
So right now I’m still dating this series and we’ll see where it goes. I don’t think we are getting married or anything yet but we might be moving back into the heavy petting stage again soon. I’ll just take it as book 8 was a first fight and now we are making up.
January 13, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
The pacing of this series has been gaining speed with every new installment, so although I did find myself wishing that Darynda Jones would just get on with it already, overall I enjoyed the breather that THE DIRT ON NINTH GRADE provided. Also, what reader hasn’t wished for the power to turn back the clock, and re-discover their favourite characters all over again? This book allowed fans to do exactly that, well until the ending catapulted us into an oh-shit free fall that is.
One thing became evident in this novel; Charley’s memories aren’t what define her. She’s still the quick-witted, trouble magnet that we’ve come to adore, even though she now goes by Janey Doerr. I loved that her oddball personality was able to come through in spite of her retrograde amnesia. The theories that she came up with whenever one of her powers manifested itself were priceless as well from Davidson thinking she’s a genius for knowing multiple languages, to being a time traveler.
Bobert, Cookie, Osh, Garrett and Agent Carson’s attempts to keep Charley in the dark were an absolute blast because of the heroine’s ability to detect lies, and feel people’s emotions. It made deceiving her next to impossible, so most of them kept their distance except for her BFF. *queue awesome Cookie antics* Reyes’ frustration at being estranged from his soul mate was palpable, but the heart wants what the heart wants, even when the brain forgets!
This installment was rather tame in comparison to Jones’ customary CHARLEY DAVIDSON stories. There was still a throng of plot threads what with Mr. Vandenberg’s conundrum, Erin’s baby woes, and the otherworldly intrigue that surfaced in the closing chapters. However, they were slow moving, and the recap didn’t show up until the conclusion was well underway which made finding my way after an eight month break more of a hurdle than it should have been.
I liked THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE almost as much as Charley loves coffee! ~4.5 Stars
The pacing of this series has been gaining speed with every new installment, so although I did find myself wishing that Darynda Jones would just get on with it already, overall I enjoyed the breather that THE DIRT ON NINTH GRADE provided. Also, what reader hasn’t wished for the power to turn back the clock, and re-discover their favourite characters all over again? This book allowed fans to do exactly that, well until the ending catapulted us into an oh-shit free fall that is.
One thing became evident in this novel; Charley’s memories aren’t what define her. She’s still the quick-witted, trouble magnet that we’ve come to adore, even though she now goes by Janey Doerr. I loved that her oddball personality was able to come through in spite of her retrograde amnesia. The theories that she came up with whenever one of her powers manifested itself were priceless as well from Davidson thinking she’s a genius for knowing multiple languages, to being a time traveler.
Bobert, Cookie, Osh, Garrett and Agent Carson’s attempts to keep Charley in the dark were an absolute blast because of the heroine’s ability to detect lies, and feel people’s emotions. It made deceiving her next to impossible, so most of them kept their distance except for her BFF. *queue awesome Cookie antics* Reyes’ frustration at being estranged from his soul mate was palpable, but the heart wants what the heart wants, even when the brain forgets!
This installment was rather tame in comparison to Jones’ customary CHARLEY DAVIDSON stories. There was still a throng of plot threads what with Mr. Vandenberg’s conundrum, Erin’s baby woes, and the otherworldly intrigue that surfaced in the closing chapters. However, they were slow moving, and the recap didn’t show up until the conclusion was well underway which made finding my way after an eight month break more of a hurdle than it should have been.
I liked THE DIRT ON NINTH GRAVE almost as much as Charley loves coffee! ~4.5 Stars
February 23, 2016
Oh, she's back, baby! Kind of... well, she doesn't know who she is, or what she is, but she is still Charley to the core.
"you're not what you think you are," he said.
"Yes, I know what I am."
"You - you do?"
"I'm a time traveler...What are you?"
"I'm part of an interdimensional time investigation unit."
"Shut the fuck up. Are you for real?"
"No," he said with a snort.
So close. Well, not really. But, she knows she sees dead people. She knows she loves coffee and a fellow waitress that is named Cookie. She knows she can sense people's emotions. And, she has no idea why earthquakes seem to occur when she gets angry. Crazy coincidence, right? And, wow, she sure does heal quickly!
Must have been a vitamin freak in my previous life. Probably ate green shit. Stuff that rhymed with "ale" and "ettuce."
She doesn't, however, understand why her people haven't come to claim her yet. She was wearing a wedding ring. Where is her husband?
I'd been waiting since that first day... Waiting for him to find me. For anyone to find me.
But, they have found her and she just doesn't know it. She knows there are a bunch of very hot guys who come into the diner she works at every day. Good looking Garret, a super sexy young guy who flirts with her (Osh), and a guy who is so hot that she literally sees smoke coming off of him. He seems to be angry at her and she doesn't know why, but she is definitely interested in him. She's sad to hear that he is pining over his wife who left him, which is why he is working as a cook in her diner.
"She left me. No good-bye. No note. Nothing. Just vanished into thin air. I had nowhere else to go."
But, their growing attraction brings her to finally get up her nerve to ask him out.
"I was wondering if, maybe, you know, if you weren't doing anything at the moment and you liked me - as in liked me liked me - you might consider letting me tie you up and have my way with you. For fifteen minutes."
Gawd, I was good at this shit. I should've been a lawyer.
See, maybe that's what I was doing wrong when I was single. I never even considered asking a guy if I could tie him up as a first date. That's a great ice-breaker!
But, even though Charley doesn't know she's Charley, she's still very Charleyish. She likes to tease Cookie. She gives Ubie a new name: Bobert. She hatches a mad-capped scheme to help a fellow employee catch the eye of a girl. And, of course, she gets involved in an extremely dangerous situation as she investigates a kidnapping. So very Charley!
This book was like a fun vacation from the normal series. We have all of our characters out of their usual element, and because of Charley's amnesia, we get to see everything through fresh eyes. I'm so glad that it was better than the crapfest of the last book.
"you're not what you think you are," he said.
"Yes, I know what I am."
"You - you do?"
"I'm a time traveler...What are you?"
"I'm part of an interdimensional time investigation unit."
"Shut the fuck up. Are you for real?"
"No," he said with a snort.
So close. Well, not really. But, she knows she sees dead people. She knows she loves coffee and a fellow waitress that is named Cookie. She knows she can sense people's emotions. And, she has no idea why earthquakes seem to occur when she gets angry. Crazy coincidence, right? And, wow, she sure does heal quickly!
Must have been a vitamin freak in my previous life. Probably ate green shit. Stuff that rhymed with "ale" and "ettuce."
She doesn't, however, understand why her people haven't come to claim her yet. She was wearing a wedding ring. Where is her husband?
I'd been waiting since that first day... Waiting for him to find me. For anyone to find me.
But, they have found her and she just doesn't know it. She knows there are a bunch of very hot guys who come into the diner she works at every day. Good looking Garret, a super sexy young guy who flirts with her (Osh), and a guy who is so hot that she literally sees smoke coming off of him. He seems to be angry at her and she doesn't know why, but she is definitely interested in him. She's sad to hear that he is pining over his wife who left him, which is why he is working as a cook in her diner.
"She left me. No good-bye. No note. Nothing. Just vanished into thin air. I had nowhere else to go."
But, their growing attraction brings her to finally get up her nerve to ask him out.
"I was wondering if, maybe, you know, if you weren't doing anything at the moment and you liked me - as in liked me liked me - you might consider letting me tie you up and have my way with you. For fifteen minutes."
Gawd, I was good at this shit. I should've been a lawyer.
See, maybe that's what I was doing wrong when I was single. I never even considered asking a guy if I could tie him up as a first date. That's a great ice-breaker!
But, even though Charley doesn't know she's Charley, she's still very Charleyish. She likes to tease Cookie. She gives Ubie a new name: Bobert. She hatches a mad-capped scheme to help a fellow employee catch the eye of a girl. And, of course, she gets involved in an extremely dangerous situation as she investigates a kidnapping. So very Charley!
This book was like a fun vacation from the normal series. We have all of our characters out of their usual element, and because of Charley's amnesia, we get to see everything through fresh eyes. I'm so glad that it was better than the crapfest of the last book.
February 9, 2016
After that crazy ending from the last book, I couldn't wait for this one! Reyes and Charley had an amazing event occur but the situation had to be handled a different way. No one was prepared for how Charley would react...or where she would end up!
Trauma...it affects everyone differently and for Charley, that meant losing her memory. She thinks she's all alone in a new town without a penny to her name. Luckily, her love ones would never let that happen...especially Reyes! OMG...it was so hard to read about him struggling with trying to stay away from her!
And that was just part of the juicy goodness that made things so much more interesting. Kudos to D.J. for how she handled things. The rest of the characters have to act like they are just meeting Charley, who goes by Janey now, for the first time but still be there to help her. Poor Cookie...she's as clumsy and as endearing as ever.
I really loved that even though Charley couldn't remember who she was, she was still drawn to the same people with the same intensity. Ahem...Reyes. Those were some hot scenes!
But it's not only the characters that Charley is drawn to, she just can't stop being who she intricately is! Not only as a private investigator but just by being a good person that likes to help people.
And don't even get me started on her gifts at being The Reaper. OMG....some pretty hilarious moments and I can totally see why Charley would be freaking out!
Of course, all the little "cases" get taken care of and the last one is a humdinger. I never saw that coming but I loved who was there for her! ~sob~
I liked how everything wrapped up, well, except for one MAJOR thing regarding Reyes. Not sure how that's going to work out but again, I can't wait for the next book, The Curse of Tenth Grave, coming out June 28, 2016.
Favorite quote:
♥ “I’ve loved you for a thousand years.”
"I’ve loved you for a thousand and one. –R."
Trauma...it affects everyone differently and for Charley, that meant losing her memory. She thinks she's all alone in a new town without a penny to her name. Luckily, her love ones would never let that happen...especially Reyes! OMG...it was so hard to read about him struggling with trying to stay away from her!
And that was just part of the juicy goodness that made things so much more interesting. Kudos to D.J. for how she handled things. The rest of the characters have to act like they are just meeting Charley, who goes by Janey now, for the first time but still be there to help her. Poor Cookie...she's as clumsy and as endearing as ever.
I really loved that even though Charley couldn't remember who she was, she was still drawn to the same people with the same intensity. Ahem...Reyes. Those were some hot scenes!
But it's not only the characters that Charley is drawn to, she just can't stop being who she intricately is! Not only as a private investigator but just by being a good person that likes to help people.
And don't even get me started on her gifts at being The Reaper. OMG....some pretty hilarious moments and I can totally see why Charley would be freaking out!
Of course, all the little "cases" get taken care of and the last one is a humdinger. I never saw that coming but I loved who was there for her! ~sob~
I liked how everything wrapped up, well, except for one MAJOR thing regarding Reyes. Not sure how that's going to work out but again, I can't wait for the next book, The Curse of Tenth Grave, coming out June 28, 2016.
Favorite quote:
♥ “I’ve loved you for a thousand years.”
"I’ve loved you for a thousand and one. –R."
January 16, 2016
"Je t'ai aimée pendant mille et un." -R.
Guess what he said? :D *swoooon*
3.5 Stars.. This might be my least favorite of this series, but I still love Reyes and Charley to piece.. I can't bring myself to give high stars for the story because it is not much interesting to me. ( The fun part? like it come at near very end! ) But still, I also can't help myself to give 0.5 stars, just because of the romance. I loved the romance in this one. It's bittersweet and heart-melting, like a lot of butterflies fly full over my stomach. Oh.. Rey'aziel, I love you.
Guess what he said? :D *swoooon*
3.5 Stars.. This might be my least favorite of this series, but I still love Reyes and Charley to piece.. I can't bring myself to give high stars for the story because it is not much interesting to me. ( The fun part? like it come at near very end! ) But still, I also can't help myself to give 0.5 stars, just because of the romance. I loved the romance in this one. It's bittersweet and heart-melting, like a lot of butterflies fly full over my stomach. Oh.. Rey'aziel, I love you.
December 16, 2015
My Blog Melissa Martin's Reading List
Sigh......
I really loved the first book but I didn't like this one :-(
I read the first book and I loved it. I loved Charley and her snark and all of her friends and most definitely Reyes! I do own some of the other books, but I haven't read them as yet. This one book is not going to change me from going back and reading the prior books since I did love the first one.
Charley has amnesia and going by the name of Janey Doerr. Something terrible happened in the prior book and caused this to happen. All of her friends are surrounding her, including Reyes until..they hope..she comes back to her senses.
She still have Charley snark that I love though :-)
---->EXCERPT<----
♣♣♣♣♣
"Can I take your picture? I have to post this on one of those sites that has photos of UFOs and Sasquatch. Otherwise no one will believe me."
"They have programs."
"Right? Those things are great. I watched a zombie program last night, and tonight I'm going to watch this one about a blond chick who controls dragons. And there's this sexy short guy who's drunk all the time."
"Not those kinds of programs." She admonished me with a withering stare. It almost worked.
"There are clinics."
♣♣♣♣♣
Charley/Janey still sees ghosts and she's trying to figure out who she is and why she sees said ghosts. All the while she is working at The Firelight Grill as a waitress. Reyes comes around every day a long with her other friends and some even work there. I don't want to give too much away though.
I like some of the things that went on between her and Reyes in this one, trying to find themselves so to speak. But I really didn't like when I found out what she is... this is just not that kind of book to me. I like the idea of Charley and her snark and her seeing ghosts and solving crimes. Not this other stuff.. It just doesn't go with who she is, in my opinion, when I found out at the end of the book. I'm sure all of this is told in the prior book.
Anyway, I know plenty of people love this book and many more will, it just wasn't for me. :-(
*I would like to thank NETGALLEY and ST. MARTIN'S PRESS for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest reivew.*
Sigh......
I really loved the first book but I didn't like this one :-(
I read the first book and I loved it. I loved Charley and her snark and all of her friends and most definitely Reyes! I do own some of the other books, but I haven't read them as yet. This one book is not going to change me from going back and reading the prior books since I did love the first one.
Charley has amnesia and going by the name of Janey Doerr. Something terrible happened in the prior book and caused this to happen. All of her friends are surrounding her, including Reyes until..they hope..she comes back to her senses.
She still have Charley snark that I love though :-)
---->EXCERPT<----
♣♣♣♣♣
"Can I take your picture? I have to post this on one of those sites that has photos of UFOs and Sasquatch. Otherwise no one will believe me."
"They have programs."
"Right? Those things are great. I watched a zombie program last night, and tonight I'm going to watch this one about a blond chick who controls dragons. And there's this sexy short guy who's drunk all the time."
"Not those kinds of programs." She admonished me with a withering stare. It almost worked.
"There are clinics."
♣♣♣♣♣
Charley/Janey still sees ghosts and she's trying to figure out who she is and why she sees said ghosts. All the while she is working at The Firelight Grill as a waitress. Reyes comes around every day a long with her other friends and some even work there. I don't want to give too much away though.
I like some of the things that went on between her and Reyes in this one, trying to find themselves so to speak. But I really didn't like when I found out what she is... this is just not that kind of book to me. I like the idea of Charley and her snark and her seeing ghosts and solving crimes. Not this other stuff.. It just doesn't go with who she is, in my opinion, when I found out at the end of the book. I'm sure all of this is told in the prior book.
Anyway, I know plenty of people love this book and many more will, it just wasn't for me. :-(
*I would like to thank NETGALLEY and ST. MARTIN'S PRESS for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest reivew.*
January 9, 2016
Felling silent for now, waiting for # 10
Bittersweet.
Charlie, was so lost in this book, but still held her sense of humor and care for others. In the last book she lost so much, it is amazing that she is still alive. She feels alone but the strangers around her are not who she thinks they are. She is never truly alone. My heart broke for her, Reyes, Cookie and her family. Charlie is one of my favorite characters it's hard watching her suffer. it had to be done, she had to walk through the dark to continue walking in this realm.
OMG what a cliffhanger ! Where is book 10 ? I need it. NEED
Bittersweet.
Charlie, was so lost in this book, but still held her sense of humor and care for others. In the last book she lost so much, it is amazing that she is still alive. She feels alone but the strangers around her are not who she thinks they are. She is never truly alone. My heart broke for her, Reyes, Cookie and her family. Charlie is one of my favorite characters it's hard watching her suffer. it had to be done, she had to walk through the dark to continue walking in this realm.
OMG what a cliffhanger ! Where is book 10 ? I need it. NEED
November 30, 2015
If there's one thing Darynda Jones knows better than pretty much everyone else, it's how to keep a series fresh and exciting through more pages than one can count. Charley Davidson never gets old (no, really, she's more or less immortal), she never gets tired (supernatural beinh, duh), and she never gets bored… or boring, for that matter. There are very few series I love more at this point and I don't see that changing any time soon.
We’ve reached a long awaited culmination in Eighth Grave after Dark and for only a second or two it was very difficult to see where things might go or how they could go on at all. As always, though, Darynda found the perfect solution by making a simple yet startlingly clever move and handling things elegantly while staying true to the series and herself. I’ve had more than a little faith in the woman ever since First Grave fell into my hands, but even I was surprised by how skillfully she handled things in this book.
At this point, it’s very difficult to say anything without revealing major spoilers, so I won’t even try. Suffice it to say that the series is just as good, just as exciting as it’s been at the very beginning. Ninth Grave itself, though, stands out due to the overwhelming sense of community and family, the strong connections we get to see between Charley and her friends in the most trying times they’ve ever faced.
Two more books are certainly ahead of us (and hopefully even more), and I’m very curious to see how things will turn out for Charley and the gang. We’ve had some hints along the way and some very ominous signs, but I have no doubt that Darynda will find a way to give Charley her much deserved happily ever after, and even more importantly, a way for Reyes to finally have some peace.
January 13, 2016
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm in love! Seriously, people, I'm gonna become Darynda Jones freaking stalker, because her books are to die for!!! I've waited so long for the new Reyes and Charley's book, it's not even funny. But now that I finally got to read this amazing and awesome story, it's all is forgiven and forgotten. That is of course only for the next few days. Then I'm going to star feeling all grouchy and miserable, because the wait for the next book is going to slowly but surely kill me. But first let me tell you why I love the ninth book so much.
For those of you, who didn't read the previous book, I strongly suggest that you do so or at least skim through it, because you might get confused when you start reading this one. This story picks up where the last one ended and that was on a big fat cliffhanger that blew my mind. Buy you can also guess from the blurb what happened. Charley !
So, it's safe to say that I was a bit concerned by how this big dilemma is going to affect her and all that she's come to love and care for. Of couse, I should have trusted in Darynda's magic powers to make the best plot possible. Charley is still the same badass chick that we all know and love. She will also stop at nothing to help her friends (the living or the dead), even if that means risking her life countless times. But the best part was and is always going to be her wicked humor.
"It was freaking awesome. Seriously. Like, mind-blowing. What are we talking about?"
There were ups and downs but she conqured them all. Although, at times she did need a little bit of help from her friends and her gorgeous, mysterious and sinfully sexy Reyes. And let me tell you, those two were explosive together. I admit, it took them awile to get there but when they did, wow!
The Dirt on Ninth Grave has angst, mystery, danger, love, jealousy, heartbreak, loss, lots of action and so much more. Also, we get to know more about who or better said what Charley and Reyes are and what to expect from their future. And you won't believe who they get rid of, finally!!!
All in all is this a story that won't disappoint. I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I highly recommend! :)
Safety-gang: Safe.
I'm in love! Seriously, people, I'm gonna become Darynda Jones freaking stalker, because her books are to die for!!! I've waited so long for the new Reyes and Charley's book, it's not even funny. But now that I finally got to read this amazing and awesome story, it's all is forgiven and forgotten. That is of course only for the next few days. Then I'm going to star feeling all grouchy and miserable, because the wait for the next book is going to slowly but surely kill me. But first let me tell you why I love the ninth book so much.
For those of you, who didn't read the previous book, I strongly suggest that you do so or at least skim through it, because you might get confused when you start reading this one. This story picks up where the last one ended and that was on a big fat cliffhanger that blew my mind. Buy you can also guess from the blurb what happened. Charley !
So, it's safe to say that I was a bit concerned by how this big dilemma is going to affect her and all that she's come to love and care for. Of couse, I should have trusted in Darynda's magic powers to make the best plot possible. Charley is still the same badass chick that we all know and love. She will also stop at nothing to help her friends (the living or the dead), even if that means risking her life countless times. But the best part was and is always going to be her wicked humor.
"It was freaking awesome. Seriously. Like, mind-blowing. What are we talking about?"
There were ups and downs but she conqured them all. Although, at times she did need a little bit of help from her friends and her gorgeous, mysterious and sinfully sexy Reyes. And let me tell you, those two were explosive together. I admit, it took them awile to get there but when they did, wow!
The Dirt on Ninth Grave has angst, mystery, danger, love, jealousy, heartbreak, loss, lots of action and so much more. Also, we get to know more about who or better said what Charley and Reyes are and what to expect from their future. And you won't believe who they get rid of, finally!!!
All in all is this a story that won't disappoint. I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I highly recommend! :)
Safety-gang: Safe.
March 25, 2017
I'm pretty disappointed in this book. I want to start out by saying that I loved this series. Charley and the gang always made me laugh, had great adventures, and her and Reyes were hot! But then came book seven, I felt like the story line took a hard left turn without warning. I hated it, raged about it, even called up my friends, that are fellow fans, and cried to them. And book eight came out, I felt vindicated, total redemption! Characters were back to their crazy, snarky, entertaining selves. Oh and Reyes practically smoldered off the page, I loved it, so when I had a chance to get an advance copy of the ninth book I jumped all over it. I'm so sad right now. Let me break it down for you.
First 1/4 of the book Charley doesn't know who she is or who anyone else is. Everyone is there but no one is tell her or interacting with her (except Cookie, she at least talks to her) so it is literally Charley aka Janey (that's her new name) working in a diner. No, I'm serious that is it. NOTHING else is going on, okay you get one or two matrix slow mo looks from Reyes but nothing else. For like 75 pages....
Next section Janey decides that she's going to solve a mystery. Finally something to read about! Oh and she decides she is attracted to Reyes (seriously!?! who isn't???) so she might like to kiss him. Also she starts to discover what she can do. If you never read any of the other books this is a great way to learn all about Charley/Janey's abilities. Unfortunately I have so this is just more boring for me.
Next part. Finally we get some Reyes action, but to be honest it feels a little rushed, like it's just thrown in there cause there would be riots in the streets if it wasn't. Even this mystery isn't really getting much attention.
The last part. Book seven took a left turn. This book just DROVE OFF THE ROAD!! Really, can't that Earl guy die??? And seriously, could this story be any more convoluted? I feel it's so far from the original plot line I don't even think I'm reading the same series. Which brings me to my ultimate point, I'm done. This isn't anything like the books I loved and I refuse to continue to cling to this series hoping for the past. Will Reyes continue to be smoking hot? Absolutely! But these books are just too far from where they started. I can't recommend this book.
I received this book from netgalley for my unbiased opinion. Well they can't say I lied.
First 1/4 of the book Charley doesn't know who she is or who anyone else is. Everyone is there but no one is tell her or interacting with her (except Cookie, she at least talks to her) so it is literally Charley aka Janey (that's her new name) working in a diner. No, I'm serious that is it. NOTHING else is going on, okay you get one or two matrix slow mo looks from Reyes but nothing else. For like 75 pages....
Next section Janey decides that she's going to solve a mystery. Finally something to read about! Oh and she decides she is attracted to Reyes (seriously!?! who isn't???) so she might like to kiss him. Also she starts to discover what she can do. If you never read any of the other books this is a great way to learn all about Charley/Janey's abilities. Unfortunately I have so this is just more boring for me.
Next part. Finally we get some Reyes action, but to be honest it feels a little rushed, like it's just thrown in there cause there would be riots in the streets if it wasn't. Even this mystery isn't really getting much attention.
The last part. Book seven took a left turn. This book just DROVE OFF THE ROAD!! Really, can't that Earl guy die??? And seriously, could this story be any more convoluted? I feel it's so far from the original plot line I don't even think I'm reading the same series. Which brings me to my ultimate point, I'm done. This isn't anything like the books I loved and I refuse to continue to cling to this series hoping for the past. Will Reyes continue to be smoking hot? Absolutely! But these books are just too far from where they started. I can't recommend this book.
I received this book from netgalley for my unbiased opinion. Well they can't say I lied.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2016
3.5-4 Stars.
The Charley Davidson series is one of my favorite urban fantasy/paranormal romances out there. Darynda Jones’ humor had me laughing out loud most of the book! She writes Charley with a sort of slapstick humor and her sidekick, Cookie is on the same hilarious, A.D.D. wavelength! The run of comedy has me snorting and giggling, enough to get some odd glances from anyone around, (something to keep in mind if you read in public) and so sometimes when things get very dire it’s almost a shock. It does help temper the truly horrible things Charley has been through over the years, and I do admire her positive outlook and unwillingness to let anything get her down. Her recklessness has always been a source of frustration for me, but at the heart of it is the complete self-sacrificing spirit she has for others. While I am angry with Charley a lot (right along with Reyes) for her rash actions, her motivations come from a sincere love of other people, so I can never hold a grudge.
From here on out, if you haven’t read the previous books in the series there will be some spoilers. Proceed with caution. If you haven’t read the other books, stop, run, and pick up the first book!
The Dirt on Ninth Grave was definitely different from the previous installments, and yet, also the same. We had the same Charley at her core, even though she lost her memory and ended up on the other side of the country in Sleepy Hollow, New York. All the regulars followed and played along so as not to traumatize Charley anymore. It was a little painful to see Charley and Reyes unsure of each other, but it was also kind of sweet watching them fall in love all over again, making it abundantly clear that nothing will stand in the way of their love. Of course, there were hot and steamy scenes! Anytime Reyes and Charley are together things turn hot and explosive!
There were several mysteries besides the continuing story arc of the series, as with the other installments. I was moved by all but the Vandenberg mystery, and unfortunately, it seemed like it took up the most page time. Plus, I’d scratch my head when Charley would be so worried about them and then get distracted by another conflict and forget. I did enjoy Erin’s story and how it all turned out. I wish more time was spent on Ian Jefferies’ past and the retired detective, Mr. Pettigrew. Don’t get me started on the bittersweet story of Lewis, Shayla, and Francie. Not much plot progression on the continuing story arc because so much time was spent with Charley as “Janey” without her memory. I wished that was resolved sooner in the story.
Still, I enjoyed this story, like I said, this is one of my favorite series’, and with all the books and stories I almost feel like Charley and the gang are old friends. I can hardly wait to hang with Charley and the gang in the next book!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Charley Davidson series is one of my favorite urban fantasy/paranormal romances out there. Darynda Jones’ humor had me laughing out loud most of the book! She writes Charley with a sort of slapstick humor and her sidekick, Cookie is on the same hilarious, A.D.D. wavelength! The run of comedy has me snorting and giggling, enough to get some odd glances from anyone around, (something to keep in mind if you read in public) and so sometimes when things get very dire it’s almost a shock. It does help temper the truly horrible things Charley has been through over the years, and I do admire her positive outlook and unwillingness to let anything get her down. Her recklessness has always been a source of frustration for me, but at the heart of it is the complete self-sacrificing spirit she has for others. While I am angry with Charley a lot (right along with Reyes) for her rash actions, her motivations come from a sincere love of other people, so I can never hold a grudge.
From here on out, if you haven’t read the previous books in the series there will be some spoilers. Proceed with caution. If you haven’t read the other books, stop, run, and pick up the first book!
The Dirt on Ninth Grave was definitely different from the previous installments, and yet, also the same. We had the same Charley at her core, even though she lost her memory and ended up on the other side of the country in Sleepy Hollow, New York. All the regulars followed and played along so as not to traumatize Charley anymore. It was a little painful to see Charley and Reyes unsure of each other, but it was also kind of sweet watching them fall in love all over again, making it abundantly clear that nothing will stand in the way of their love. Of course, there were hot and steamy scenes! Anytime Reyes and Charley are together things turn hot and explosive!
There were several mysteries besides the continuing story arc of the series, as with the other installments. I was moved by all but the Vandenberg mystery, and unfortunately, it seemed like it took up the most page time. Plus, I’d scratch my head when Charley would be so worried about them and then get distracted by another conflict and forget. I did enjoy Erin’s story and how it all turned out. I wish more time was spent on Ian Jefferies’ past and the retired detective, Mr. Pettigrew. Don’t get me started on the bittersweet story of Lewis, Shayla, and Francie. Not much plot progression on the continuing story arc because so much time was spent with Charley as “Janey” without her memory. I wished that was resolved sooner in the story.
Still, I enjoyed this story, like I said, this is one of my favorite series’, and with all the books and stories I almost feel like Charley and the gang are old friends. I can hardly wait to hang with Charley and the gang in the next book!
A copy was kindly provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 16, 2016
i am not humanly capable of waiting this long.... after that power packed finale of the 8th book.. dear god, save me.
oh i love ms jones.
this new arc to the series has me up in knots. this is going to be so very very awesome...
i have never read a story so beautifully evolved as charley davidson.
i can't wait to meet the royal baby again in this one..
or ... see the love story unfold all over again...
and .. most importantly... this might be a little far away in the future still.. i can't wait to see how the precious baby rolls with punches that are gonna come in her way.. hopefully just like her mom did... with style!!
i love you reyes... with all my heart, i would really like to get a custom made bf just like you, if i could.
just completed it........... i don't think its possible to fall in love any further than i already have!
awesome !!!!
oh i love ms jones.
this new arc to the series has me up in knots. this is going to be so very very awesome...
i have never read a story so beautifully evolved as charley davidson.
i can't wait to meet the royal baby again in this one..
or ... see the love story unfold all over again...
and .. most importantly... this might be a little far away in the future still.. i can't wait to see how the precious baby rolls with punches that are gonna come in her way.. hopefully just like her mom did... with style!!
i love you reyes... with all my heart, i would really like to get a custom made bf just like you, if i could.
just completed it........... i don't think its possible to fall in love any further than i already have!
awesome !!!!
January 18, 2016
Spoilers
-Another filler book, there was no need for the Charley getting amnesia plot, it didn't serve any purpose, all it did was drag things out.
-Charley's amnesia was plain boring to read, her trying to figure out who she was and who Cookie/Reyes/etc were and generally being clueless was beyond tiresome. It might have been interesting if I was as clueless as she was as that would have added mystery, but I already knew everything so Charley clumsily wondering what was going on was nothing but frustrating.
-Charley was in full idiot mood throughout, her every thought was daft and the way she handled various people/situations was beyond ridiculous. Especially that stalker Ian and the peeping tom, they were nothing but creepy, but idiot Charley just seemed to make light of all their creepy behaviour instead of actually taking some sensible action, like reporting them to the police.
-The random Mr V and stalker Ian plots added nothing to the plot/series/characters.
-Reyes was as abusive as ever, he was still being an angry douche every chance he got. Naturally, he again grabbed Charley's throat and caused her bruises. Ugh.
-As usual there was too much Charley fangirling over Reyes, there seemed to be more description of how hot Reyes was than actual story.
-The twist with Reyes actually being a god was too much, it didn't fit in with his original backstory, it was like it was added in just so Reyes could be as important/powerful/immortal as Charley.
-The fact that the few middle eastern characters to appear in the series were bad guys and were called terrorists and infidels by Charley/Cookie was quite disgusting. Just ugh.
-The best thing about the book was some of the secondary characters, especially Cookie/Bob.
-Another filler book, there was no need for the Charley getting amnesia plot, it didn't serve any purpose, all it did was drag things out.
-Charley's amnesia was plain boring to read, her trying to figure out who she was and who Cookie/Reyes/etc were and generally being clueless was beyond tiresome. It might have been interesting if I was as clueless as she was as that would have added mystery, but I already knew everything so Charley clumsily wondering what was going on was nothing but frustrating.
-Charley was in full idiot mood throughout, her every thought was daft and the way she handled various people/situations was beyond ridiculous. Especially that stalker Ian and the peeping tom, they were nothing but creepy, but idiot Charley just seemed to make light of all their creepy behaviour instead of actually taking some sensible action, like reporting them to the police.
-The random Mr V and stalker Ian plots added nothing to the plot/series/characters.
-Reyes was as abusive as ever, he was still being an angry douche every chance he got. Naturally, he again grabbed Charley's throat and caused her bruises. Ugh.
-As usual there was too much Charley fangirling over Reyes, there seemed to be more description of how hot Reyes was than actual story.
-The twist with Reyes actually being a god was too much, it didn't fit in with his original backstory, it was like it was added in just so Reyes could be as important/powerful/immortal as Charley.
-The fact that the few middle eastern characters to appear in the series were bad guys and were called terrorists and infidels by Charley/Cookie was quite disgusting. Just ugh.
-The best thing about the book was some of the secondary characters, especially Cookie/Bob.
February 1, 2016
With no memory and no real life outside of work, Jane struggles to understand this world and the other that no one else seems to see. She feels a sense of deep loss and as if she tries hard enough she can get a glimmer of what she seems to have lost. Jane also has a drive/compulsion to help people. Something within that makes her want to lend a helping had and fix a wrong.
You can read the blurb for a more, but my review from this point on is going to be soley based on my emotions after reading The Dirt on Ninth Grave.
If Charley Davidson had any doubts about the friends and family she has amassed, they have just been obliterated. The sheer love and heartache Reyes emits had me so teary eyed and love struck that it just reaffirms his status as my ultimate book boyfriend.
Cookie, well, EVERY girl needs a Cookie in their life; plain and simple.
Still funny as ever, still thrilling, and still packed with crazy antics. And, yes, still filled with breathtaking sexy encounters that will have you melting in the kitchen.
I was unsure where this series was going after the last book, Eighth Grave After Dark, but worry no more. I feel what will rise from this is a stronger, mightier, sexier unit that no god or monster can destroy.
5 emotionally charged stars
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You can read the blurb for a more, but my review from this point on is going to be soley based on my emotions after reading The Dirt on Ninth Grave.
If Charley Davidson had any doubts about the friends and family she has amassed, they have just been obliterated. The sheer love and heartache Reyes emits had me so teary eyed and love struck that it just reaffirms his status as my ultimate book boyfriend.
Cookie, well, EVERY girl needs a Cookie in their life; plain and simple.
Still funny as ever, still thrilling, and still packed with crazy antics. And, yes, still filled with breathtaking sexy encounters that will have you melting in the kitchen.
I was unsure where this series was going after the last book, Eighth Grave After Dark, but worry no more. I feel what will rise from this is a stronger, mightier, sexier unit that no god or monster can destroy.
5 emotionally charged stars
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March 2, 2023
I struggled a bit with how the gang kept Charlie in the dark in this book. I won't mention anymore due to spoilers but I wish they had handled her dilemma differently. Despite that, I still very much enjoyed this book and I liked how Charley came back to herself even if it was sad.
While Charley wasn't herself, a part of her still was. She got herself in all kinds of trouble trying to help people and still solved cases that were pretty exciting. There seemed to be a lot in this book.
-a store owner's family was being held captive
-a headless horseman
-a very disturbed cop
-a good cop with a dangerous entity inside him
-a baby killer
- and last but not least, a love match
On to book 10...
OVERALL SERIES DESCRIPTION: Heroine, Charley Davidson, Private Investigator and Grim Reaper. She's a portal for the dead to pass through to heaven. Hero, Reyes Alexander Farrow, Son of Satan and portal to Hell. Since Charley can see and talk to the dead, she has helped her former cop father and current cop uncle solve cases. The main focus in each book are the cases Charley solves with the help of her best friend Cookie, her uncle and the dead victims. The side focus is the romance between Charley and Reyes and the impending war with the demons that is predicted.
While Charley wasn't herself, a part of her still was. She got herself in all kinds of trouble trying to help people and still solved cases that were pretty exciting. There seemed to be a lot in this book.
-a store owner's family was being held captive
-a headless horseman
-a very disturbed cop
-a good cop with a dangerous entity inside him
-a baby killer
- and last but not least, a love match
On to book 10...
OVERALL SERIES DESCRIPTION: Heroine, Charley Davidson, Private Investigator and Grim Reaper. She's a portal for the dead to pass through to heaven. Hero, Reyes Alexander Farrow, Son of Satan and portal to Hell. Since Charley can see and talk to the dead, she has helped her former cop father and current cop uncle solve cases. The main focus in each book are the cases Charley solves with the help of her best friend Cookie, her uncle and the dead victims. The side focus is the romance between Charley and Reyes and the impending war with the demons that is predicted.
June 30, 2019
I have mixed feelings about this volume. The premise here is that Charley has landed across the country in New York state with amnesia. Her tight-knit group of friends/family determine that they need to surround her to keep her safe, but that it's of the utmost importance that she finds her memories on her own.
I found it a bit confusing at times, and there were just some aspects I just could not suspend disbelief over. Yes, I am perfectly capable of accepting the fact that Charley is the grim reaper (and all the other details we've learned about her over the past 8 books), but I could not accept that .
But for the most part this includes the things I like about the gang, and plenty of Charley snark, so overall I enjoyed this one. It was nice to get back to some lighter stories, especially after the last few.
I found it a bit confusing at times, and there were just some aspects I just could not suspend disbelief over. Yes, I am perfectly capable of accepting the fact that Charley is the grim reaper (and all the other details we've learned about her over the past 8 books), but I could not accept that .
But for the most part this includes the things I like about the gang, and plenty of Charley snark, so overall I enjoyed this one. It was nice to get back to some lighter stories, especially after the last few.
December 10, 2015
I received this book from Netgalley for my honest review.
I can honestly say that I love Charley!!!
She’s hilarious! Her inner musing make me laugh out loud in the most inappropriate moments!
She’s the only heroine that I can forgive even if she’s doing stupid things!
Anyhow, this book follows closely the last book in the series: Eighth Grave After Dark where we have left Charley in from of a diner with any clue of who she is.
Are you ready for this? LOL
[image error]
… psssttt… don’t read the spoilers if you don’t want to know…
Things start slowly, but more you go on with the reading and more and more quickly everything accelerates, until I was reading and my breath kept getting quicker and quicker, until I was almost panting!
A great book and great continuing of the series! Well worth reading!
I’m looking forward to the next book!
I can honestly say that I love Charley!!!
She’s hilarious! Her inner musing make me laugh out loud in the most inappropriate moments!
She’s the only heroine that I can forgive even if she’s doing stupid things!
Anyhow, this book follows closely the last book in the series: Eighth Grave After Dark where we have left Charley in from of a diner with any clue of who she is.
Are you ready for this? LOL
[image error]
… psssttt… don’t read the spoilers if you don’t want to know…
Things start slowly, but more you go on with the reading and more and more quickly everything accelerates, until I was reading and my breath kept getting quicker and quicker, until I was almost panting!
A great book and great continuing of the series! Well worth reading!
I’m looking forward to the next book!
May 30, 2020
After the doozy of the prior book, it's not so surprising that Charley needed to hit the reset button. OR that Darynda had to hit the reset button.
This is a light-ish UF even though we deal with the dead and ghosts wanting to get closure and Satan's son is a big squeeze, etc., but when you tip over into the OP category, there has to be some kind of counterbalance.
As long as I don't come across THIS particular counterbalance *coughamnesiacough* too often in my reading, I let it slide because it IS awfully convenient and it CAN be an interesting track to take as we find out all the things about our favorite characters all over again.
Or just plain START AGAIN.
And this is where we are in this book. I've seen this trope done dozens of times -- or more, if you include all the movies and tv shows -- and I've seen it done BETTER than this.
And yet, I'm not playing a comparison game. Did THIS book manage to entertain me?
Yes, yes, and yes. All the snark is here and the slow reveals are all fully expected and comfortable as hell. Even the *deep and abiding sadness* is all just a silly joke to the reader because... let's face it: we know things turn out well in the end.
This is comfort food. There's no other way to describe it.
This is a light-ish UF even though we deal with the dead and ghosts wanting to get closure and Satan's son is a big squeeze, etc., but when you tip over into the OP category, there has to be some kind of counterbalance.
As long as I don't come across THIS particular counterbalance *coughamnesiacough* too often in my reading, I let it slide because it IS awfully convenient and it CAN be an interesting track to take as we find out all the things about our favorite characters all over again.
Or just plain START AGAIN.
And this is where we are in this book. I've seen this trope done dozens of times -- or more, if you include all the movies and tv shows -- and I've seen it done BETTER than this.
And yet, I'm not playing a comparison game. Did THIS book manage to entertain me?
Yes, yes, and yes. All the snark is here and the slow reveals are all fully expected and comfortable as hell. Even the *deep and abiding sadness* is all just a silly joke to the reader because... let's face it: we know things turn out well in the end.
This is comfort food. There's no other way to describe it.
April 17, 2024
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book nine
She doesn't know who she is or where she came from. She is working in a cafe making friend and doing the best she can. Bits and pieces keep coming back to her and the fun begins.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy romantic relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book nine
She doesn't know who she is or where she came from. She is working in a cafe making friend and doing the best she can. Bits and pieces keep coming back to her and the fun begins.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of fantasy romantic relationships mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024
September 6, 2022
Book Blog | Bookstagram
The ending of #8 was a little bit of a cliffhanger, but more than that it was just a bummer. Actually, the whole book was a bit of a bummer for me. I didn’t like how different it was from the rest of the series. But this one is a clear swing back around to Classic Charley. Only this time she has no idea who she is thanks to a case of amnesia.
She’s living a “just the essentials” kind of life as a waitress named Janey. She’s trying to figure out who she is, where her people are – she must have people, she has a wedding ring on after all! But she’s also just living her life without too much pressure.
What she doesn’t know is that her people have already found her. The gang is letting her persist in her amnesia because it’s safer this way. But also because she’s happier in this new life she’s built in Sleepy Hollow. As Angel points out, Charley needed a fucking break from everything.
Charley’s instincts really start firing when she literally sees smoke and fire coming off of a very angry Reyes, who is the new cook at the diner. And him being the cook is hilarious enough to carry the whole novel, let's be honest.
Why is he angry? Because he’s a giant man-baby, douchecanoe? Probably. Because he's wearing an apron? I would be. Although I’m sure he gave some reason that sounded justified in his opinion.
And in between all of the personal mystery stuff, Charley is still being uber-Charley and hatching little schemes to solve small-town mysteries and help those around her. This includes a very Insidious-esque storyline about an evil, murdering spirit and it was probably my favourite part of the book.
These caper-style parts were an important element to the plot because they answered that question: if Charley doesn’t know who/what she is, does she still help people? Is she still selfless in her most typical Charley way? And the answer is yes. She gets into people’s business with the best of intentions, causes some trouble and saves the day.
Charley’s memory isn’t what defines her. Her instincts do.
For me, this book was a re-discovering of all the characters I love. And a reminder of why I don’t like the ones I don’t (*cough Reyes cough*)
They were so familiar, but being out of their normal element really allowed the relationships to seem new and exciting. It gave the reader a chance to remember why these books are so fun even though the last book was a shit-sandwich.
This was kind of like rediscovering passion in a long-term relationship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4 stars.
The ending of #8 was a little bit of a cliffhanger, but more than that it was just a bummer. Actually, the whole book was a bit of a bummer for me. I didn’t like how different it was from the rest of the series. But this one is a clear swing back around to Classic Charley. Only this time she has no idea who she is thanks to a case of amnesia.
She’s living a “just the essentials” kind of life as a waitress named Janey. She’s trying to figure out who she is, where her people are – she must have people, she has a wedding ring on after all! But she’s also just living her life without too much pressure.
What she doesn’t know is that her people have already found her. The gang is letting her persist in her amnesia because it’s safer this way. But also because she’s happier in this new life she’s built in Sleepy Hollow. As Angel points out, Charley needed a fucking break from everything.
Charley’s instincts really start firing when she literally sees smoke and fire coming off of a very angry Reyes, who is the new cook at the diner. And him being the cook is hilarious enough to carry the whole novel, let's be honest.
Why is he angry? Because he’s a giant man-baby, douchecanoe? Probably. Because he's wearing an apron? I would be. Although I’m sure he gave some reason that sounded justified in his opinion.
And in between all of the personal mystery stuff, Charley is still being uber-Charley and hatching little schemes to solve small-town mysteries and help those around her. This includes a very Insidious-esque storyline about an evil, murdering spirit and it was probably my favourite part of the book.
These caper-style parts were an important element to the plot because they answered that question: if Charley doesn’t know who/what she is, does she still help people? Is she still selfless in her most typical Charley way? And the answer is yes. She gets into people’s business with the best of intentions, causes some trouble and saves the day.
Charley’s memory isn’t what defines her. Her instincts do.
For me, this book was a re-discovering of all the characters I love. And a reminder of why I don’t like the ones I don’t (*cough Reyes cough*)
They were so familiar, but being out of their normal element really allowed the relationships to seem new and exciting. It gave the reader a chance to remember why these books are so fun even though the last book was a shit-sandwich.
This was kind of like rediscovering passion in a long-term relationship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 4 stars.
January 5, 2016
This series is unfortunately a bit hit or miss for this reader. I love the paranormal elements and the unique pairing that dominates but just sometimes I find myself rolling my eyes. This book follows on from the tragic events that kind of messed with not only readers minds but that of the heroine as well! Charlie has lost her memory and now we catch up with her working in a diner and calling herself Janey. Janey quickly realises that she is not quite like other folks ( I mean seeing dead people is kind of a big clue!) but nevertheless she has managed to make really good friends and then of course there's the rather tasty guy who literally has Janey panting. So what if there's another guy kind of creeping her out? Does it really matter if not everyone is totally honest with Janey? What she can't ignore though is strangers hurting a family close by . Oh and did I intention the tasty guy takes a job at the diner? Yes Janeys life is very complicated indeed!
So my thoughts are a bit jumbled if honest. I didn't like the way Janey drooled constantly over Reyes as it seemed very juvenile. It is a fun read so Janey being a little bit cookie is fine and setting this story in Sleepy Hollow with all its history clearly adds to the mystery. Such a crazy cast of characters that will be very familiar to regular followers of this series. Essentially the heroine is true to herself although perhaps slightly diluted. I'm not sure that those around her don't add to her confusion though as keeping her in the dark left her stumbling about but as usual if there's trouble Charley/Janey rises to the challenge ! I'm just left slightly unsatisfied as I really wanted "THAT" character from Eigth Grave After Dark to appear.
Bottom line is another well written book which entertains and frequently surprises.
So my thoughts are a bit jumbled if honest. I didn't like the way Janey drooled constantly over Reyes as it seemed very juvenile. It is a fun read so Janey being a little bit cookie is fine and setting this story in Sleepy Hollow with all its history clearly adds to the mystery. Such a crazy cast of characters that will be very familiar to regular followers of this series. Essentially the heroine is true to herself although perhaps slightly diluted. I'm not sure that those around her don't add to her confusion though as keeping her in the dark left her stumbling about but as usual if there's trouble Charley/Janey rises to the challenge ! I'm just left slightly unsatisfied as I really wanted "THAT" character from Eigth Grave After Dark to appear.
Bottom line is another well written book which entertains and frequently surprises.
December 30, 2015
"Jones delights her readers with her trademark charm and wit."
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
Read this review in its entirety at Fresh Fiction
June 19, 2019
That's what I'm talkin' about!!!
Snarky, silly, funny and sexy...all the things I love about this series!
Next book please :)
Snarky, silly, funny and sexy...all the things I love about this series!
Next book please :)
November 25, 2020
I have taken a pretty long hiatus from the Charley Davidson series. One, I read through #8 so quickly that #9 wasn’t out yet. Two, I needed a little space from the storyline. Charley had lost so much in the last one that my heart really hurt for her. But now I’m back to pick up where I left her.
In The Dirt on Ninth Grave, Charley has retrograde amnesia brought on by her soul-crushing losses. She goes by Janey, works as a waitress and has made a host of “new” friends (her friends and family have surrounded her to be there for her but they want her to find her way back to them on her own - orders from her sister Gemma). She has to figure out all her powers again, which must be pretty disturbing. Oddly enough, even though she’s sad about not knowing who she is, she’s able to keep her hopes and spirits up.
The mysteries are many. Not necessarily too many; although, the biggest action part at the end felt rushed. Charley is able to save quite a few people from terrible humans and spirits. Normally, this is the focus of the novels - how she uses her powers to save others and right wrongs of those who have been murdered. The Dirt on Ninth Grave is more focused on Charley coming to terms with her loss and getting her life back, which was probably my favorite part. Seeing her deal with her loss and guilt while being pulled toward her friends made my heart hurt. Watching her friends struggle with her amnesia through her eyes is tough. You can see how they are struggling. The scenes with Reyes in particular are powerful (the writing on the hundred dollar bill made me pause to soak up the beauty of love and the raunchy parts aren’t nearly as graphic as the other novels). It’s all well done like the rest of the series: sass, humor, sweetness, mysteries, action, friendship and love.
In The Dirt on Ninth Grave, Charley has retrograde amnesia brought on by her soul-crushing losses. She goes by Janey, works as a waitress and has made a host of “new” friends (her friends and family have surrounded her to be there for her but they want her to find her way back to them on her own - orders from her sister Gemma). She has to figure out all her powers again, which must be pretty disturbing. Oddly enough, even though she’s sad about not knowing who she is, she’s able to keep her hopes and spirits up.
The mysteries are many. Not necessarily too many; although, the biggest action part at the end felt rushed. Charley is able to save quite a few people from terrible humans and spirits. Normally, this is the focus of the novels - how she uses her powers to save others and right wrongs of those who have been murdered. The Dirt on Ninth Grave is more focused on Charley coming to terms with her loss and getting her life back, which was probably my favorite part. Seeing her deal with her loss and guilt while being pulled toward her friends made my heart hurt. Watching her friends struggle with her amnesia through her eyes is tough. You can see how they are struggling. The scenes with Reyes in particular are powerful (the writing on the hundred dollar bill made me pause to soak up the beauty of love and the raunchy parts aren’t nearly as graphic as the other novels). It’s all well done like the rest of the series: sass, humor, sweetness, mysteries, action, friendship and love.
December 23, 2015
Note: This review might have minor spoilers but not really any more than the synopsis reveals.
I have been waiting for this book for 8 months and it felt like 8 years, the things that happened in the last book just blew my mind and then the ending left me trying to wrap my head around that book so I was waiting for this book to add something approaching normal back to this series …… and it did …. Well sort of normal.
This book is almost like a new series for a good part of the book because Charlie does not remember who/what she is or why she can see dead people.
The humor in this book is what I am going to remember for a long time, I laughed as much or more than I have reading most romantic comedies. Doing while a deadly serious plot unfolds around our heroine is a nice touch and shows why we keep reading this series, Charlie has a wicked sense of humor and add to a bit of reckless detective and it makes for an exceptionally entertaining reading experience.
Bottom Line: This book is a gem, the old amnesia ploy actually works great, it makes the book seem like a prequel in some respects and what really makes it exceptional is the cast of characters that are like family. All of them are there to help although if I had any complaints it might be wanting to see more of all of them but then again the story had to be handled perfectly or it would come across like one of those hundreds of amnesiac soap opera plots that are a joke these days. This is a slowly building plot with great humor and we get to see Charlie fall in love all over again. 5 Stars and once again she leaves us with a small teaser that will have us snatching up the next one as soon as we can get our hands on it.
I have been waiting for this book for 8 months and it felt like 8 years, the things that happened in the last book just blew my mind and then the ending left me trying to wrap my head around that book so I was waiting for this book to add something approaching normal back to this series …… and it did …. Well sort of normal.
This book is almost like a new series for a good part of the book because Charlie does not remember who/what she is or why she can see dead people.
The humor in this book is what I am going to remember for a long time, I laughed as much or more than I have reading most romantic comedies. Doing while a deadly serious plot unfolds around our heroine is a nice touch and shows why we keep reading this series, Charlie has a wicked sense of humor and add to a bit of reckless detective and it makes for an exceptionally entertaining reading experience.
Bottom Line: This book is a gem, the old amnesia ploy actually works great, it makes the book seem like a prequel in some respects and what really makes it exceptional is the cast of characters that are like family. All of them are there to help although if I had any complaints it might be wanting to see more of all of them but then again the story had to be handled perfectly or it would come across like one of those hundreds of amnesiac soap opera plots that are a joke these days. This is a slowly building plot with great humor and we get to see Charlie fall in love all over again. 5 Stars and once again she leaves us with a small teaser that will have us snatching up the next one as soon as we can get our hands on it.
January 5, 2016
How could I not be on the edge of my seat when starting this after how it all ended in book eight? I was so eager to find out what was going on and how Charley once again, got herself into the situation she did and more than that, how her beloved friends and family, were going to get her out of it.
I have always loved the secondary characters in this series, they are just so fleshed out and lovable but my love for this fantastic bunch grew even more when it became so very obvious how far they were all willing to go for Charley. It was hard not falling in love with them all over again.
Jones has proved herself time and time again with this series. With how well the woman can write and execute but even for her she went above and beyond. I can't even begin to imagine the planning this series has taken. So many things come together in this novel, make sense, and go above and beyond her norm that it is one of my absolute favorites to date.
The longing, the heartache, the love, the friendship, the togetherness, it was just beautiful and so well done.
Yes I laughed, I smiled, I frowned, I cringed, I cried. All the feels! Truly this was so amazing. I wish I could just say that and have it be enough because it really should be because this was amazing. It was beyond anything that I thought it would be and I loved every single minute of it.
Fans of the series are going to adore this and it will leave them wanting, no, craving more.
*ARC copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Don't miss out on a chance to win a copy on my blog!
http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com...
I have always loved the secondary characters in this series, they are just so fleshed out and lovable but my love for this fantastic bunch grew even more when it became so very obvious how far they were all willing to go for Charley. It was hard not falling in love with them all over again.
Jones has proved herself time and time again with this series. With how well the woman can write and execute but even for her she went above and beyond. I can't even begin to imagine the planning this series has taken. So many things come together in this novel, make sense, and go above and beyond her norm that it is one of my absolute favorites to date.
The longing, the heartache, the love, the friendship, the togetherness, it was just beautiful and so well done.
Yes I laughed, I smiled, I frowned, I cringed, I cried. All the feels! Truly this was so amazing. I wish I could just say that and have it be enough because it really should be because this was amazing. It was beyond anything that I thought it would be and I loved every single minute of it.
Fans of the series are going to adore this and it will leave them wanting, no, craving more.
*ARC copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Don't miss out on a chance to win a copy on my blog!
http://myguiltyobsession.blogspot.com...
January 9, 2016
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Darynda Jones has once again bewitched her readers in this new fun, comely and riveting read in the latest installment of the Charley Davidson Series. The Dirt on the Ninth Grave instantaneously picks off where it last left off in the previous book and I was instantly hooked. And how could I not be when the opening pages start off with "I see dead people."
“I'd realized very soon after waking up that I could see things others couldn't. Dead people, for one thing, but also their realm. Their dimension. And their dimension defined the word cray-cray.”
This will not be my standard review of where I would rehash what happened in the story because reading this installment is worth it. Ms. Jones stuns and captivates her readers with her raw and witty prose as you are embarked on the journey of Janey/Charley trying to discover and recall what happened to her. And along the way, we are fascinated to the people that she meets in the town of Sleepy Hollow and of course Reyes.
“He razed. He demolished. He destroyed. And I was married to him.”
Oh Reyes, you have beguiled me with your personality. I think it so fitting that he can break your heart and at the same time, have your hearts racing so fast. So yes, Reyes is one of the key factors in having me hooked.
Overall, The Dirt on the Ninth Grave had more of an emotional angsty undertone and of course layered with bits of humor that we would have expected from Ms. Jones. With Ms. Jones phenomenal and wicked writing, she captives and lures her readers to another unforgettable installment. I seriously can't wait for The Curse of the Tenth Grave.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Darynda Jones
Darynda Jones has once again bewitched her readers in this new fun, comely and riveting read in the latest installment of the Charley Davidson Series. The Dirt on the Ninth Grave instantaneously picks off where it last left off in the previous book and I was instantly hooked. And how could I not be when the opening pages start off with "I see dead people."
“I'd realized very soon after waking up that I could see things others couldn't. Dead people, for one thing, but also their realm. Their dimension. And their dimension defined the word cray-cray.”This will not be my standard review of where I would rehash what happened in the story because reading this installment is worth it. Ms. Jones stuns and captivates her readers with her raw and witty prose as you are embarked on the journey of Janey/Charley trying to discover and recall what happened to her. And along the way, we are fascinated to the people that she meets in the town of Sleepy Hollow and of course Reyes.
“He razed. He demolished. He destroyed. And I was married to him.”Oh Reyes, you have beguiled me with your personality. I think it so fitting that he can break your heart and at the same time, have your hearts racing so fast. So yes, Reyes is one of the key factors in having me hooked.
Overall, The Dirt on the Ninth Grave had more of an emotional angsty undertone and of course layered with bits of humor that we would have expected from Ms. Jones. With Ms. Jones phenomenal and wicked writing, she captives and lures her readers to another unforgettable installment. I seriously can't wait for The Curse of the Tenth Grave.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Darynda Jones
August 30, 2024
At the beginning of 2015, I decided to discover some really good Paranormal/Urban Fantasy series. Charley Davidson, though well known amongst bloggers that I follow, was something I’ve always felt like a series I would not be able to enjoy. But the increasing noise from others about the books could no longer be ignored. In March, I gave in and picked up the first book. It only took one book and the rest, as they say, is history.
*** Warning: Some spoilers up ahead ***
IN RETROSPECT
This was a wonderful instalment that shows how long series should be done. Ms. Jones was able to freshen it up without veering away from the story arch she’s started. You will laugh, you will cry and in the Reyes-Dutch fashion, it will get you hot under the collar!
*** Warning: Some spoilers up ahead ***
IN RETROSPECT
This was a wonderful instalment that shows how long series should be done. Ms. Jones was able to freshen it up without veering away from the story arch she’s started. You will laugh, you will cry and in the Reyes-Dutch fashion, it will get you hot under the collar!
January 10, 2016
3.5 stars
I have very mixed feelings about this book. I love this series. I love the characters. The wit. The charm. The sexy and smoldering Reyes Farrow. And you can find all of those things in this book. So on one hand, I enjoyed it. I laughed. And I quickly warmed to amnesiac Charley, who –despite her memory loss– is essentially the same loveable person she has been since book 1. The problem is that this book felt like total filler. Other than a couple of revelations at the very end, it’s essentially a prop to get us from the explosive ending of Eighth Grave to whatever is coming next. A fact which I found both disappointing and frustrating.
The climax of the last book was heartbreaking. That it caused Charley to check out of her regular life and start over with a blank slate somewhere is kind of understandable. But this entire book is spent without Charley knowing who she is. It’s too much. I spent the whole time waiting for her to remember her identity, which kept me from really buying in to the story. It was a distraction and it felt like we were spinning our wheels.
Charley’s friends and family are all with her in the small town where she landed, keeping up the ruse that they don’t know her history. Again, I have mixed feelings. I am glad they were present, because I love the relationships she has with Cookie, Uncle Bob, Swopes, and Osh. (And of course, Reyes goes without saying.) The interactions she has with them as “Janey Doerr” are virtually the same as she has as Charley, which is good in the sense that it’s fun and familiar. But it’s bad because it messed with my suspension of disbelief. That they all picked up their lives and created fake ones across the country. That their relationships with Charley play out the exactly same way when she doesn’t know them. It’s just too… convenient. This is a smart, snappy series that is great at surprising me. Here, it felt less so.
There is a side mystery involving a kidnapped family that was fair. It gave Charley a reason to sleuth but it was not tied to the bigger story as her mysteries usually are. Like everything else in the book, it felt forced in a way this series rarely is.
I wish I felt differently. Because Reyes is still loyal and delicious and damn near perfect. And Cookie may be the best sidekick ever. And Charley is still wonderful Charley no matter what name she goes by. I just want the rest of the magic back.
Rating: B-
*ARC provided by publisher
I have very mixed feelings about this book. I love this series. I love the characters. The wit. The charm. The sexy and smoldering Reyes Farrow. And you can find all of those things in this book. So on one hand, I enjoyed it. I laughed. And I quickly warmed to amnesiac Charley, who –despite her memory loss– is essentially the same loveable person she has been since book 1. The problem is that this book felt like total filler. Other than a couple of revelations at the very end, it’s essentially a prop to get us from the explosive ending of Eighth Grave to whatever is coming next. A fact which I found both disappointing and frustrating.
The climax of the last book was heartbreaking. That it caused Charley to check out of her regular life and start over with a blank slate somewhere is kind of understandable. But this entire book is spent without Charley knowing who she is. It’s too much. I spent the whole time waiting for her to remember her identity, which kept me from really buying in to the story. It was a distraction and it felt like we were spinning our wheels.
Charley’s friends and family are all with her in the small town where she landed, keeping up the ruse that they don’t know her history. Again, I have mixed feelings. I am glad they were present, because I love the relationships she has with Cookie, Uncle Bob, Swopes, and Osh. (And of course, Reyes goes without saying.) The interactions she has with them as “Janey Doerr” are virtually the same as she has as Charley, which is good in the sense that it’s fun and familiar. But it’s bad because it messed with my suspension of disbelief. That they all picked up their lives and created fake ones across the country. That their relationships with Charley play out the exactly same way when she doesn’t know them. It’s just too… convenient. This is a smart, snappy series that is great at surprising me. Here, it felt less so.
There is a side mystery involving a kidnapped family that was fair. It gave Charley a reason to sleuth but it was not tied to the bigger story as her mysteries usually are. Like everything else in the book, it felt forced in a way this series rarely is.
I wish I felt differently. Because Reyes is still loyal and delicious and damn near perfect. And Cookie may be the best sidekick ever. And Charley is still wonderful Charley no matter what name she goes by. I just want the rest of the magic back.
Rating: B-
*ARC provided by publisher
December 10, 2015
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
*BOOKS 1-8 TO BE DISCUSSED. DON’T READ IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED*
Picking up where Eighth Grave After Dark leaves off, Charley has finally given birth to Beep, has already had to part with her, and has learned her true name. As feared, learning her true name causes Charley to lose control of her powers and she loses her memory completely and ends up in an alley in Sleepy Hollow, New York with no idea who she is. Now responding to the name of Jane, Jane Doe, she works as a waitress at a local diner. Fortunately though she’s not alone, as she has a new best friend named Cookie and a raging attraction to the new cook named Reyes.
Well, I guess it was probable that I’d find a Charley Davidson story to be sort of ‘meh’ no matter how much I adore this series. After that brutal cliffhanger from Eighth Grave After Dark, I was dying to get my hands on this next installment. At first, I relished the change of pace and getting reacquainted in a new way to the characters we’ve already grown to know and love. We also got to see Charley, or Jane rather, fall in love again with Reyes with a new set of eyes seeing him for truly what he is. I loved that even though Jane has no idea about who or what she is, she still found herself embroiled in the mysteries of the town, often failing to think of her own safety out of the desire to protect the innocents.
I enjoyed those aspects of the story, but when it all boils down, there wasn’t nearly enough advancement of the fundamental storyline. I find the mythology and the foretold battle all extremely fascinating and previous installments have really been amping up the intensity. The Dirt on Ninth Grave was a vast change of pace and while I liked it at first, I wasn’t anticipating that it would last the entirety of the book. As I feared, the change of pace finally switched back to what I’ve come to expect in the final 30 pages or so. Honestly though, the turmoil that takes place and the shocking revelations made it all worthwhile in the end. Darynda Jones once again left me thrilled with anticipation for the next book where the stakes have never been higher.
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
*BOOKS 1-8 TO BE DISCUSSED. DON’T READ IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED*
Picking up where Eighth Grave After Dark leaves off, Charley has finally given birth to Beep, has already had to part with her, and has learned her true name. As feared, learning her true name causes Charley to lose control of her powers and she loses her memory completely and ends up in an alley in Sleepy Hollow, New York with no idea who she is. Now responding to the name of Jane, Jane Doe, she works as a waitress at a local diner. Fortunately though she’s not alone, as she has a new best friend named Cookie and a raging attraction to the new cook named Reyes.
Well, I guess it was probable that I’d find a Charley Davidson story to be sort of ‘meh’ no matter how much I adore this series. After that brutal cliffhanger from Eighth Grave After Dark, I was dying to get my hands on this next installment. At first, I relished the change of pace and getting reacquainted in a new way to the characters we’ve already grown to know and love. We also got to see Charley, or Jane rather, fall in love again with Reyes with a new set of eyes seeing him for truly what he is. I loved that even though Jane has no idea about who or what she is, she still found herself embroiled in the mysteries of the town, often failing to think of her own safety out of the desire to protect the innocents.
I enjoyed those aspects of the story, but when it all boils down, there wasn’t nearly enough advancement of the fundamental storyline. I find the mythology and the foretold battle all extremely fascinating and previous installments have really been amping up the intensity. The Dirt on Ninth Grave was a vast change of pace and while I liked it at first, I wasn’t anticipating that it would last the entirety of the book. As I feared, the change of pace finally switched back to what I’ve come to expect in the final 30 pages or so. Honestly though, the turmoil that takes place and the shocking revelations made it all worthwhile in the end. Darynda Jones once again left me thrilled with anticipation for the next book where the stakes have never been higher.
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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