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Charley Davidson #13.7
The Graveside Bar and Grill
When Donovan St. James’ precocious charge asks him—no questions asked—to tail the doctor who keeps their ragtag team patched up, he wants to refuse. Not because the saucy teen is getting too big for her britches, ordering him around like a mob boss, but because the woman stirs feelings in him he would rather not explore. However, when evil threatens the doc’s life, he realizes he has no choice. Sia saved his life once. He will try to return the favor. He just prays he can do it without losing his heart.
Running from the supernatural entity that has destroyed entire worlds to have her, Sia thought she’d found a haven on Earth with a motley team of warriors protecting the girl destined to save humanity. But when Sia’s found, she realizes something on this plane is more scrumptious than her: that very teen. So, she runs—and Donovan St. James follows. Nothing is more alluring than a scruffy biker with a lacerating gaze. And she vows to tell him that… if they survive.
Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.
Running from the supernatural entity that has destroyed entire worlds to have her, Sia thought she’d found a haven on Earth with a motley team of warriors protecting the girl destined to save humanity. But when Sia’s found, she realizes something on this plane is more scrumptious than her: that very teen. So, she runs—and Donovan St. James follows. Nothing is more alluring than a scruffy biker with a lacerating gaze. And she vows to tell him that… if they survive.
Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.
118 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2022
307 people are currently reading
2412 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 163 reviews
August 31, 2022
I am always grateful for stories from this world and its characters. In this story Donovan St James, biker and owner of The Graveside Bar and Grill, whose one of those tasked with protecting Beep is doing a side job for said savior of the world. Beep has asked him to keep an eye on Dr. Lucia Mirabel. The doctor is the one who took care of Beep after her little worldly trip. Lucia’s real name is Sia, and she’s not exactly human…. well, you’ll see.
I loved the premises of the story and found it fascinating, but would have preferred a full-length story. Sia’s story is interesting, and it was easy to sympathize with her actions and current predicament. Danger is coming and Sia fears for the girl Donovan is protecting.
The audio is just under three hours, but Jones does a good job of enlightening us regarding Dr. Lucia. We first met her in a previous novella. We learned about others like her, which made me curious. For fans of the series, we glimpsed Charley, Reyes and others. The romantic aspect was more telling than show, which is why I would have preferred a longer story. However, Jones made it work, and I enjoyed their story from the suspense to their interaction.
Lorelei King narrates and does a stellar job. While I read the series, I have listened to the most of the novellas. She set the tone, enhanced the conversations and made listening pleasurable. As always, there is humor mixed in the tale and King nails it.
The story left me excited for Beeps series. While this is a standalone, I think fans of the series will appreciate it more. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
I loved the premises of the story and found it fascinating, but would have preferred a full-length story. Sia’s story is interesting, and it was easy to sympathize with her actions and current predicament. Danger is coming and Sia fears for the girl Donovan is protecting.
The audio is just under three hours, but Jones does a good job of enlightening us regarding Dr. Lucia. We first met her in a previous novella. We learned about others like her, which made me curious. For fans of the series, we glimpsed Charley, Reyes and others. The romantic aspect was more telling than show, which is why I would have preferred a longer story. However, Jones made it work, and I enjoyed their story from the suspense to their interaction.
Lorelei King narrates and does a stellar job. While I read the series, I have listened to the most of the novellas. She set the tone, enhanced the conversations and made listening pleasurable. As always, there is humor mixed in the tale and King nails it.
The story left me excited for Beeps series. While this is a standalone, I think fans of the series will appreciate it more. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
April 10, 2024
I absolutely loved Donovan and Sia's story! I didn't realize who Sia was until I read this and now I feel like I need to go back a couple books and read where she was first introduced. I loved that she was brought back and how she was brought back for this series.
I've always loved Donovan so I'm glad Sia is the one for him. I found them charming together even though I wouldn't normally describe Donovan as charming. I also thought his interactions with Beep was adorable.
Reading this has made me want to read this whole series all over again. It's just a fantastically entertaining series that will never get old!
I've always loved Donovan so I'm glad Sia is the one for him. I found them charming together even though I wouldn't normally describe Donovan as charming. I also thought his interactions with Beep was adorable.
Reading this has made me want to read this whole series all over again. It's just a fantastically entertaining series that will never get old!
August 24, 2022
This could be the nostalgia talking but I enjoyed this a lot. I didn't think I would miss these people a lot but I did.
Also, the romance in this one also didn't disappoint me. I would actually prefer to have a longer book revolving around these two people. They actually got a good chemistry going and decent plot with the demon possessing human stuff.
Plus having to meet Reyes for a second again is always a treat. I really can't wait for a whole new series with Elwyn though.
Also, the romance in this one also didn't disappoint me. I would actually prefer to have a longer book revolving around these two people. They actually got a good chemistry going and decent plot with the demon possessing human stuff.
Plus having to meet Reyes for a second again is always a treat. I really can't wait for a whole new series with Elwyn though.
August 5, 2022
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
I want to start by saying that I am very happy that we are getting more stories in the Charley Davidson series but the novellas are just too short. It ends when it's starting to get good. I love being reunited and seeing what my favorite characters are up to, but I need more! Garrett, Quentin & Amber, and Donovan deserve to be the main characters in their own full-length novel. There is just so much more material and trying to tell a story in 100+ pages just isn't enough.
I liked The Graveside Bar and Grill but didn't love it as much as I did the previous novellas. This book especially felt very rushed and the characters and I just didn't have time to connect and grow. I was absolutely intrigued by Sia, and I would love to learn more about her. Her connection to Donovan felt very sudden. This novella gave me a little taste and left me wanting more. I am really hoping that we'll get full-length novels in the spinoff series. I just can't wait to be fully immersed in the amazing world Darynda has created.
I want to start by saying that I am very happy that we are getting more stories in the Charley Davidson series but the novellas are just too short. It ends when it's starting to get good. I love being reunited and seeing what my favorite characters are up to, but I need more! Garrett, Quentin & Amber, and Donovan deserve to be the main characters in their own full-length novel. There is just so much more material and trying to tell a story in 100+ pages just isn't enough.
I liked The Graveside Bar and Grill but didn't love it as much as I did the previous novellas. This book especially felt very rushed and the characters and I just didn't have time to connect and grow. I was absolutely intrigued by Sia, and I would love to learn more about her. Her connection to Donovan felt very sudden. This novella gave me a little taste and left me wanting more. I am really hoping that we'll get full-length novels in the spinoff series. I just can't wait to be fully immersed in the amazing world Darynda has created.
August 24, 2022
I don’t know if it started on the wrong note, because the blurb wasn’t particularly well crafted and I read the summary at the start of the book, but this one didn’t really speak to me. I just didn’t feel any attraction or chemistry between the MCs, and then the rush ending was bit out of left field. And it was unresolved…
October 11, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
September 12, 2022
Any excuse to revisit the Charley Davidson series world will having me plugging in my earbuds and settling in for the fun. Hot, sexy aloof Donovan is now running a bar and doesn’t miss the curves on the doctor who saved his life and looks after Beep, but it isn’t until her mysterious past catches up to her that he is motivated to do something about the attraction and it may be too late.
The Graveside Bar and Grill is the third of the 1001 Dark Nights novellas Darynda Jones wrote as standalone stories that cap the end of the Charley Davidson series and will go before the future spinoff coming at a future date. Another side character gets an adventure and a romance and I think this will appeal most to series fans since the tie-ins to the past are strong.
Donovan played a side role in the earlier Charley Davidson books as a bad boy biker who helped her a bit with her cases and now has a part in protecting Beep. Sia is a new character though she does have a connection to an earlier event near the end of the Charley Davidson series. Right now, she is Beep and the group’s doctor when needed and has her own secrets. Her past catches up and that is the catalyst for this adventure she is in with Donovan.
The Graveside Bar and Grill had the flirty humor and bantering I enjoy and gave me more time with Charley and the gang. I liked seeing Donovan getting his story, but this was a shorty. It was somewhat under-developed and rushed to the point when it came to the character and relationship especially since Sia is all new and Donovan didn’t really have an ongoing story line to build on. I found the spotlight conflict of what was going on in Sia’s current circumstances was a strength and I did like the pair for a romance, but I needed more to feel the story was complete.
Lorelei King was lights out stunning as the familiar series narrator and I love the way she brought characters, story, and writing style to life.
All in all, I liked, but wanted more. That said, I was glad to get this latest glimpse into the series world and can’t wait for more. Urban Fantasy fans should definitely snatch up the first book and devour this series particularly in audio.
I rec'd an audio copy through Brilliance Audio to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Sept 7th.
The Graveside Bar and Grill is the third of the 1001 Dark Nights novellas Darynda Jones wrote as standalone stories that cap the end of the Charley Davidson series and will go before the future spinoff coming at a future date. Another side character gets an adventure and a romance and I think this will appeal most to series fans since the tie-ins to the past are strong.
Donovan played a side role in the earlier Charley Davidson books as a bad boy biker who helped her a bit with her cases and now has a part in protecting Beep. Sia is a new character though she does have a connection to an earlier event near the end of the Charley Davidson series. Right now, she is Beep and the group’s doctor when needed and has her own secrets. Her past catches up and that is the catalyst for this adventure she is in with Donovan.
The Graveside Bar and Grill had the flirty humor and bantering I enjoy and gave me more time with Charley and the gang. I liked seeing Donovan getting his story, but this was a shorty. It was somewhat under-developed and rushed to the point when it came to the character and relationship especially since Sia is all new and Donovan didn’t really have an ongoing story line to build on. I found the spotlight conflict of what was going on in Sia’s current circumstances was a strength and I did like the pair for a romance, but I needed more to feel the story was complete.
Lorelei King was lights out stunning as the familiar series narrator and I love the way she brought characters, story, and writing style to life.
All in all, I liked, but wanted more. That said, I was glad to get this latest glimpse into the series world and can’t wait for more. Urban Fantasy fans should definitely snatch up the first book and devour this series particularly in audio.
I rec'd an audio copy through Brilliance Audio to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy Sept 7th.
August 23, 2022
3.5/5
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was very intrigued to discover this new story of the Charley Davidson series and I can tell you that we have a lot of characters here! It was a pleasure to find Donovan, Charley, Reyes or even Beep who is not called Beep anymore.
We follow Donovan mainly in this novel and the very dear doctor who takes care of the whole bank when needed.
The story between Donovan and Sia was very nice and I was thrilled to follow them. A perfect novel for fans of the series!
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was very intrigued to discover this new story of the Charley Davidson series and I can tell you that we have a lot of characters here! It was a pleasure to find Donovan, Charley, Reyes or even Beep who is not called Beep anymore.
We follow Donovan mainly in this novel and the very dear doctor who takes care of the whole bank when needed.
The story between Donovan and Sia was very nice and I was thrilled to follow them. A perfect novel for fans of the series!
July 8, 2023
La realidad es que esta novella podia haber sido mejor, creo que fue muy superficial, tanto en los personajes como en la trama, la cual tiene un desenlace precipitado que practicamente sucede en un par de parrafos.
El romance podia haber sido increible, los personajes y su historia tenian muchisimo potencial para ser explotado pero finalmente todo queda en nada, y con la premisa sucede lo mismo, mucha expectativa para que todo quede en nada, aun asi, me gusto el final de Donovan.
En fin, entretenido y rapido de leer. Para los fan de la saga, es una opcion perfecta.
2.75 Estrellas!
September 4, 2022
Santa Fe, New Mexico. Present day. Darynda Jones’ The Graveside Bar and Grill (Charley Davidson Novella #13.7) begins in a biker bar/grill that is next to a graveyard - hence, the title. Donovan St. James (love this name) is also a ‘member’ of the group assembled by Charley Davidson and her husband, Reyes Farrow, to guard/protect/watch their daughter, Beep, formally known as Elwyn Alexandria Loehr, as she eventually would save humankind when the war of good versus evil is threatening all. What is grand about this novella is Charley and Reyes are at the Graveyard Bar and Grill as the story begins and up to their old tricks. Oh, to be a god and a human! It is a great deal of responsibility, but Charley and Reyes make it all kinds of fun too, but they deserve the fun after surviving the horrors they survived especially Reyes. I have missed them terribly, but now back to Donovan and the doc, another ‘member’ protecting Beep. Beep asks Donovan to keep Doc within his sights as she senses that Doc is ‘distraught’. How does 14 year old Beep even know this word? Donovan agrees. The Doc does have a major secret which ultimately may place Beep in fatal danger. The Doc moves quickly to prevent this, but Donovan keeps up as he promised.Thrilling! Heart-stopping! Marriage? 5 stars.
September 8, 2022
Plugging more holes from Summoned to Thirteenth Grave. Now it's time for Donovan, the handsome biker, and his HEA.
Very short and does not add anything to the whole story, but if you're a Charley Davidson fan, we know you will have to read it. ;)
Very short and does not add anything to the whole story, but if you're a Charley Davidson fan, we know you will have to read it. ;)
August 23, 2022
3.75 stars- THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL by Darynda Jones is a contemporary, adult novella found in the author’s CHARLEY DAVIDSON paranormal, fantasy series. This is biker/bar owner Donovan St. James, and Sia’s story line. THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion regarding Donovan St. James and his contribution to the Charley Davidson series.
Told from third person perspective THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL follows biker and bar owner Donovan St. James as he is tasked by Elwyn Alexandra Loehr aka Beep with keeping a watch over Dr. Lucia Mirabal aka Zhou aka Sia. Beep believes something is wrong, and Sia could be heading into danger. A mysterious call sends Sia on the run in the hopes of staying one step ahead of monster who preys on the mind of innocent people, a monster who is determined to destroy them all but Donovan St. James is human, and he may be about to meet his match when the otherworldly meets the mundane.
THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL brings together some of our favorite characters including Charley and Reyes, Donovan and Artemis, as well as the introduction of King Henry VIII. The fast paced premise is entertaining and exciting; the characters are familiar and energetic; the romance is frenetic and fun-I just wish there was more time spent together with our leading couple.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from third person perspective THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL follows biker and bar owner Donovan St. James as he is tasked by Elwyn Alexandra Loehr aka Beep with keeping a watch over Dr. Lucia Mirabal aka Zhou aka Sia. Beep believes something is wrong, and Sia could be heading into danger. A mysterious call sends Sia on the run in the hopes of staying one step ahead of monster who preys on the mind of innocent people, a monster who is determined to destroy them all but Donovan St. James is human, and he may be about to meet his match when the otherworldly meets the mundane.
THE GRAVESIDE BAR AND GRILL brings together some of our favorite characters including Charley and Reyes, Donovan and Artemis, as well as the introduction of King Henry VIII. The fast paced premise is entertaining and exciting; the characters are familiar and energetic; the romance is frenetic and fun-I just wish there was more time spent together with our leading couple.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 5, 2022
No one was more saddened than I was when the Charley Davidson series ended. I miss these guys so much. Thankfully, Jones has graced us with lovely coffee-flavored treats to keep us going strong! I love these injections via novellas. A fun and sexy treat from one of the queens of paranormal romance.
~Tanja
*Thank you to Social Butterfly PR for sharing this title with me
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~Tanja
*Thank you to Social Butterfly PR for sharing this title with me
Follow me on
Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿TikTok
August 2, 2022
I just binged the 13.5, 13.6, and 13.7 novellas in this series. They ARE standalones, but this one was just okay compared to 13.5 and 13.6. I don't know I'm not sure if it was the main characters or the story that was keeping me from wowing me. I do think they are good though to get a taste of Darynda's writing. And light on the paranormal side for those who don't like reading paranormal. Charley Davidson series is awesome though. I highly recommend them.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 30, 2022
Graveside Bar and Grill
Charley Davidson, Book 13.7
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series.
Media Type: eBook
Source: Nook
Stars: 4
Narrator(s):
The Characters:
Donavan St James:
Dr Lucia “Sia” Mirabal:
Charley, Reyes, Beep, Garette, Marika
The Story:
Very little of this actually took place in the bar. The road trip was very interesting though. Demons, visions, hot lovin’, what more could you ask for?
The Random Thoughts:
Charley Davidson, Book 13.7
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series.
Media Type: eBook
Source: Nook
Stars: 4
Narrator(s):
The Characters:
Donavan St James:
Dr Lucia “Sia” Mirabal:
Charley, Reyes, Beep, Garette, Marika
The Story:
Very little of this actually took place in the bar. The road trip was very interesting though. Demons, visions, hot lovin’, what more could you ask for?
The Random Thoughts:
August 29, 2022
I don't know if it's been too long since I read in this series, but this one fell flat for me. It seemed to take me forever to remember who everyone was and their connection to Charley. I felt for Sia, it seemed like the bad part of her past was coming back for her and she had been hiding so much for everyone she didn't have any one to go to for help. I was glad that Donovan followed his instincts to follow her and later that Sia shared what was going on. I also think what Sia's friend did was courageous, knowing what would happen to him by making that choice.
September 8, 2022
This is a novella that continues to follow characters from the Charlie Davidson series. This is Donovan's story. He continues to look over and protect Elwyn (Charlie and Reyes daughter). A doctor, Sia, who joined their team to keep the world safe, has attracted his interest. When Sia's past catches up with her, she decides to run to keep Elwyn safe from her own supernatural enemy. Elwyn demands that Donovan follow Sia. When he learns of her past, he takes on anyone and everything to keep her safe.
I love revisiting the characters from the last series and seeing where they are now and where their stories go.
I love revisiting the characters from the last series and seeing where they are now and where their stories go.
August 31, 2022
4.5 Stars
August 23, 2022
I've come to think of these novellas post-Charley Davidson series conclusion as a set up for establishing secondary characters of the Original series and placing them at the ready for Beep's series. These are all people that will help her with the inevitable war against Satan. And while Garrett, Quentin and Amber's stories were fleshed out and self-contained, Donovan's story felt a bit underdeveloped and his connection with Sia a bit forced. There was enough meat in this story to have a full length novel that would dive deep and establish the Donovan/Sia relationship as well as the mystery subplot could have been fleshed out better. The conclusion to the 'mystery' came too quickly and their relationship went form 0 to 100 in a few pages.
I always loved Donovan but he was not as developed as Garrett or Quentin and Amber in the original series, so this injection novella, while amazing for my Charley-starved-soul, felt underwhelming and Donovan deserved more. I still enjoyed the novella and I can't wait for more stories set in this world.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
I always loved Donovan but he was not as developed as Garrett or Quentin and Amber in the original series, so this injection novella, while amazing for my Charley-starved-soul, felt underwhelming and Donovan deserved more. I still enjoyed the novella and I can't wait for more stories set in this world.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
August 26, 2022
Our boy Donovan has NO CLUE what Sia is (or how much she wants him) until things take a dangerous turn for her and he steps into her orbit to help her out (at the gentle urging of Elwyn, mind you, because Elwyn is wicked smart and very intuitive. As she should be.). He also ends up a little changed by the experience, but then EVERYONE who crosses Elwyn's path seems to end up changed in one way or another.
As for Donovan and Sia, she's on the run from a VERY BAD thing and Donovan isn't about to allow her to face off against it alone. Even if he doesn't know what it is. Or why Sia is running. Or how to help her out, really. Basically, the guy has a lot of heart and a big soft spot for the doc even if she doesn't seem to notice him.
BUT WAIT. Sia has noticed the big biker. And she likes what she sees, but she's not willing to drag him into her mess. Or maybe she doesn't quite know HOW to drag him in, even if she was willing to risk him. Either way, she plays it cool and Donovan took it as disinterest when it was anything but.
A very dangerous being, a doc who has a whole lot of secrets, a biker with a heart of gold, and a chance for these two to make things happen even after the worst has happened. DARN, I like this series.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
As for Donovan and Sia, she's on the run from a VERY BAD thing and Donovan isn't about to allow her to face off against it alone. Even if he doesn't know what it is. Or why Sia is running. Or how to help her out, really. Basically, the guy has a lot of heart and a big soft spot for the doc even if she doesn't seem to notice him.
BUT WAIT. Sia has noticed the big biker. And she likes what she sees, but she's not willing to drag him into her mess. Or maybe she doesn't quite know HOW to drag him in, even if she was willing to risk him. Either way, she plays it cool and Donovan took it as disinterest when it was anything but.
A very dangerous being, a doc who has a whole lot of secrets, a biker with a heart of gold, and a chance for these two to make things happen even after the worst has happened. DARN, I like this series.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 24, 2023
[ I received a digital arc for an honest review]
1001 Dark Nights, The Graveside Bar and Grill by Darynda Jones is Charley Davidson series Novella #13.7. While you could read this as a standalone, you might not enjoy it as much if you're not familiar with the series to begin with.
Donovan St James, biker and owner of The Graveside Bar and Grill is part of a team of human's tasked with protecting the girl who will eventually save the world. Another member of that team is Dr. Lucia Mirabel, whose real name is Sia and unbeknownst to everyone else, is not exactly human. A soul eater that followed her from her home dimension has found her. She has to stop him before he discovers the girl they protect. When said girl asked Donovan to keep an eye on Lucia, he discovers she's in trouble and he doesn't hesitate to help.
Another great installment to the Charley Davidson universe. I've always loved Donovan St. James, so I was excited to get a Charley Davidson adventure starring him. I've been curious about Lucia since the first novella, and I loved her backstory that was created.
It's hard to review a novella that's part of a huge series without giving spoilers. Therefore, I'll just say this novella had tons of friendly faces, quality Charley and Reyes content, danger, intimacy that was playful and steamy, and a happy ending for the couple.
1001 Dark Nights, The Graveside Bar and Grill by Darynda Jones is Charley Davidson series Novella #13.7. While you could read this as a standalone, you might not enjoy it as much if you're not familiar with the series to begin with.
Donovan St James, biker and owner of The Graveside Bar and Grill is part of a team of human's tasked with protecting the girl who will eventually save the world. Another member of that team is Dr. Lucia Mirabel, whose real name is Sia and unbeknownst to everyone else, is not exactly human. A soul eater that followed her from her home dimension has found her. She has to stop him before he discovers the girl they protect. When said girl asked Donovan to keep an eye on Lucia, he discovers she's in trouble and he doesn't hesitate to help.
Another great installment to the Charley Davidson universe. I've always loved Donovan St. James, so I was excited to get a Charley Davidson adventure starring him. I've been curious about Lucia since the first novella, and I loved her backstory that was created.
It's hard to review a novella that's part of a huge series without giving spoilers. Therefore, I'll just say this novella had tons of friendly faces, quality Charley and Reyes content, danger, intimacy that was playful and steamy, and a happy ending for the couple.
September 18, 2023
Happy to be back in the Charley Davidson Universe
I finished reading the main series a year ago and had no idea these novellas existed. I really loved the main series and was thrilled when I came across The Grave Robber. I didn’t remember who Eric Vause was but it didn’t take me long to get sucked back in. This story focused on Donovan St. James and Sia, the doctor hired by Charley and Reyes to care for their crew which is important when you can’t explain most of the injuries, and some of their crew aren’t human.
I loved finding out Sia’s backstory, and learning more about when she and Charley first crossed paths. The attraction between Donavan and Sia was evident and totally made sense, but I would have appreciated Jones taking a little more time with it. The first of the novellas was the longest and was very satisfying, and it makes me wish the next three were somewhat longer. But that’s just me—I love this series and always want more, lol!
Lorelei King is one of my favorite narrators and I’m so happy she does these novellas. She is perfect for this series and I was able to imagine Scheherazade telling these tales. She’s a female narrator who does a great job even with men’s voices and I always feel like I’m listening to someone weaving a tale in front of an audience.
I really loved that Charley and Reyes had cameos in this one although we still have no idea what they’re really up to, or why they have chosen to keep themselves hidden from Beep. Still, it was fun to have them pop in and appear to be doing fine, especially after all they went through in the main series!
I finished reading the main series a year ago and had no idea these novellas existed. I really loved the main series and was thrilled when I came across The Grave Robber. I didn’t remember who Eric Vause was but it didn’t take me long to get sucked back in. This story focused on Donovan St. James and Sia, the doctor hired by Charley and Reyes to care for their crew which is important when you can’t explain most of the injuries, and some of their crew aren’t human.
I loved finding out Sia’s backstory, and learning more about when she and Charley first crossed paths. The attraction between Donavan and Sia was evident and totally made sense, but I would have appreciated Jones taking a little more time with it. The first of the novellas was the longest and was very satisfying, and it makes me wish the next three were somewhat longer. But that’s just me—I love this series and always want more, lol!
Lorelei King is one of my favorite narrators and I’m so happy she does these novellas. She is perfect for this series and I was able to imagine Scheherazade telling these tales. She’s a female narrator who does a great job even with men’s voices and I always feel like I’m listening to someone weaving a tale in front of an audience.
I really loved that Charley and Reyes had cameos in this one although we still have no idea what they’re really up to, or why they have chosen to keep themselves hidden from Beep. Still, it was fun to have them pop in and appear to be doing fine, especially after all they went through in the main series!
August 23, 2022
The Graveside Bar and Grill is a quick read with all the danger, romance and humor we expect from a Charley Davidson story. It can be enjoyed as a standalone, but if you have read the series, you will appreciate it even more. It revolves around Donovan and Sia, with support roles going to Charley, Reyes and their daughter Elwyn, formally known as Beep, but now also known as Teacup. Teacup is sweet. Donovan is sweeter. Sia is not quite human, trying to survive in the human dimension. Prior to events of this story, Donovan and Sia have an un-discussed thing for each other.
Donovan St. James is one of my favorite characters from the original Charley Davidson series. As I recall, Donovan had a thing for Charley, and maybe she did for him. While it didn’t work out, Donovan continued to play a strong supportive character. It is so great to see him find love! Plus, this story includes Artemis who was originally Donovan’s dog. Until she died and became Charley’s favorite spirit dog. So happy to see Artemis again!
This story is part of the many stories includes in the 1,001 Dark Nights collection of tales by a multitude of authors telling sexy, romantic stories.
The Graveside Bar and Grill is the first Charley Davidson story I have read since the original #13 series ender. This is actually the third novella in the series, so I have some catching up to do. Soon!
I received a copy of this book from Social Butterfly PR, 1,001 Dark Nights and Darynda Jones. My review is my honest opinion.
Donovan St. James is one of my favorite characters from the original Charley Davidson series. As I recall, Donovan had a thing for Charley, and maybe she did for him. While it didn’t work out, Donovan continued to play a strong supportive character. It is so great to see him find love! Plus, this story includes Artemis who was originally Donovan’s dog. Until she died and became Charley’s favorite spirit dog. So happy to see Artemis again!
This story is part of the many stories includes in the 1,001 Dark Nights collection of tales by a multitude of authors telling sexy, romantic stories.
The Graveside Bar and Grill is the first Charley Davidson story I have read since the original #13 series ender. This is actually the third novella in the series, so I have some catching up to do. Soon!
I received a copy of this book from Social Butterfly PR, 1,001 Dark Nights and Darynda Jones. My review is my honest opinion.
September 2, 2022
This novella, 13.7 in the Charley Davidson urban fantasy series set in New Mexico, began with Charley and has spun-off to her and Farrow's daughter, Elwyn Alexandra Loehr. The couple focus is on Sia and Donovan St James.
My Take
I do love those epigraphs at the start of Davidson's chapters. And I want some of those on T-shirts!
Well, the start certainly has caused "us" to travel far and wide. Elwyn got lost on one of her wanderings, as a five-year-old, and returned as a teenager. She, um, was gone for three days, earth-time. And now she's back, only Jones is using third person dual protagonist points-of-view from Donovan's and Sia's perspectives. Elwyn is very much in the background.
Donovan cracks me up when he describes giving five-year-old Elwyn coffee because it's the only thing that calms her down.
That scene in the bar when Reyes is flirting with a couple of ladies was too funny. It makes me want to go back and start the series all over again. The weird bit is who the Brazilian girl really loves.
It's an interesting concept of Zhou and her people being elemental spiritual remnants. Makes me wonder if Jones is on drugs. I also gotta wonder why Jones didn't make this story more dramatic with the "adventures" of the others of Sia's family, besides Benji.
I'd say it's more action-packed, although the characters are interesting in that we learn what some of the core characters have been doing. It's interesting enough that I only superficially questioned some of what was going on, until I started to think (yeah, who knew I could do that!):
- If they take over a dying body and its memories, wouldn't they "be" that person?
- Why does Sia use "Sia" as her human name?
- Considering the centuries Zhou/Sia spent imprisoned by Kursch, you'd think she'd be more aware of his tricks.
- As for needing to find new bodies? I can understand why one of them probably has to, but why all the rest?
The Story
Sigh . . . Sia is in lust with Donovan . . . damn human hormones. But when Benji calls in panic, Sia must run. She can't let Kursch find Elwyn — she'd be a feast for him!
Only Elwyn has tasked Donovan with keeping her safe.
The Characters
The incorporeal Zhou, a.k.a. Sia and Mocha Cappucino, is a ka-zhouah, (the wraiths from Summoned to Thirteenth Grave , 13) who took on the dying Dr Lucia "Sia"?? Mirabal and her memories. A doctor who takes care of Elwyn's "merry band of misfits" and claims to have gone to school with Charley.
Her "family" of the past twelve centuries is mostly trapped in the Void. Five of them escaped and spread throughout the world. The five includes Benji, who found a loving family, the Hendersons and their two daughters who think "Benji" hung the moon and another who's inhabiting a pastry chef, Pamela Dubois, in Asheville.
Donovan St James (he has a son) had been part of the Bandits, a motorcycle club, until he became one of Elwyn's protectors. Now he runs the Graveside Bar and Grill, a biker den. Fellow Bandits include Michael, who is the bouncer, a biker with shady ties to the mafia, and Eric, who is the server.
The Merry Band of Misfits, a.k.a. Team Beep
Garret Swopes, a bounty hunter, is their leader and Elwyn's primary guardian. He's recently started up a relationship again with Marika ("The Graveyard Shift", 13.5); they share custody of their son. Artemis, Donovan's beloved dog before she became a ghost, is a Rottweiler who had been protecting Charley and now protects Elwyn. King Henry VIII is one of the Twelve, twelve hellhounds who also protect Elwyn.
A god destined to save humanity, Elwyn Alexandra Loehr, a.k.a. Teacup, Beep, is the suddenly teenaged daughter of Charley Davidson, a.k.a. Elle-Ryn-Ahleethis, the Grim Reaper who is also a god, and who is married to Dr “Reyes” Alexander Farrow, who is the son of Satan and brother to Jehovah, and became human for Charley. Charley is a fill-in bartender for Donovan, although she and Reyes are filthy rich . . . and own Elwyn's favorite coffee shop. The Loehrs are the family Farrow had been meant to be raised by. Now they're raising Elwyn.
Kursch is a soul-eater who manipulates minds and who had captured Zhou, Benji, and company when he destroyed their world. He's been keeping them in a different dimensional plane, a.k.a. the Void and Marmalade ( Summoned to Thirteenth Grave ). "Farmer Jane" is a zombie.
Background info
The ka-zhouahs are spiritual elementals whose world was destroyed by Kursch.
Charley and Reyes had focused all their life energies on creating a haven for their daughter and have been existing in the heavens, keeping an eye on her ( Summoned to Thirteenth Grave ). Shade demons possess the bodies of the mentally ill and cause them to be violent.
The Cover and Title
The background of the cover is black with golden orange filigrees gradating up to medium royal blue filigrees, reflecting the colors used in the publisher's / series' name in a gradating blue to black and back again. Donovan's tattooed hands, his iron bracelet, and his skull ring are coming through the zeroes in "1001". Below that is the title and series info in turquoise. Below that is an info blurb in the golden orange as is the author's name immediately below it.
The title is where it all begins, at The Graveside Bar and Grill.
My Take
I do love those epigraphs at the start of Davidson's chapters. And I want some of those on T-shirts!
Well, the start certainly has caused "us" to travel far and wide. Elwyn got lost on one of her wanderings, as a five-year-old, and returned as a teenager. She, um, was gone for three days, earth-time. And now she's back, only Jones is using third person dual protagonist points-of-view from Donovan's and Sia's perspectives. Elwyn is very much in the background.
Donovan cracks me up when he describes giving five-year-old Elwyn coffee because it's the only thing that calms her down.
That scene in the bar when Reyes is flirting with a couple of ladies was too funny. It makes me want to go back and start the series all over again. The weird bit is who the Brazilian girl really loves.
It's an interesting concept of Zhou and her people being elemental spiritual remnants. Makes me wonder if Jones is on drugs. I also gotta wonder why Jones didn't make this story more dramatic with the "adventures" of the others of Sia's family, besides Benji.
I'd say it's more action-packed, although the characters are interesting in that we learn what some of the core characters have been doing. It's interesting enough that I only superficially questioned some of what was going on, until I started to think (yeah, who knew I could do that!):
- If they take over a dying body and its memories, wouldn't they "be" that person?
- Why does Sia use "Sia" as her human name?
- Considering the centuries Zhou/Sia spent imprisoned by Kursch, you'd think she'd be more aware of his tricks.
- As for needing to find new bodies? I can understand why one of them probably has to, but why all the rest?
The Story
Sigh . . . Sia is in lust with Donovan . . . damn human hormones. But when Benji calls in panic, Sia must run. She can't let Kursch find Elwyn — she'd be a feast for him!
Only Elwyn has tasked Donovan with keeping her safe.
The Characters
The incorporeal Zhou, a.k.a. Sia and Mocha Cappucino, is a ka-zhouah, (the wraiths from Summoned to Thirteenth Grave , 13) who took on the dying Dr Lucia "Sia"?? Mirabal and her memories. A doctor who takes care of Elwyn's "merry band of misfits" and claims to have gone to school with Charley.
Her "family" of the past twelve centuries is mostly trapped in the Void. Five of them escaped and spread throughout the world. The five includes Benji, who found a loving family, the Hendersons and their two daughters who think "Benji" hung the moon and another who's inhabiting a pastry chef, Pamela Dubois, in Asheville.
Donovan St James (he has a son) had been part of the Bandits, a motorcycle club, until he became one of Elwyn's protectors. Now he runs the Graveside Bar and Grill, a biker den. Fellow Bandits include Michael, who is the bouncer, a biker with shady ties to the mafia, and Eric, who is the server.
The Merry Band of Misfits, a.k.a. Team Beep
Garret Swopes, a bounty hunter, is their leader and Elwyn's primary guardian. He's recently started up a relationship again with Marika ("The Graveyard Shift", 13.5); they share custody of their son. Artemis, Donovan's beloved dog before she became a ghost, is a Rottweiler who had been protecting Charley and now protects Elwyn. King Henry VIII is one of the Twelve, twelve hellhounds who also protect Elwyn.
A god destined to save humanity, Elwyn Alexandra Loehr, a.k.a. Teacup, Beep, is the suddenly teenaged daughter of Charley Davidson, a.k.a. Elle-Ryn-Ahleethis, the Grim Reaper who is also a god, and who is married to Dr “Reyes” Alexander Farrow, who is the son of Satan and brother to Jehovah, and became human for Charley. Charley is a fill-in bartender for Donovan, although she and Reyes are filthy rich . . . and own Elwyn's favorite coffee shop. The Loehrs are the family Farrow had been meant to be raised by. Now they're raising Elwyn.
Kursch is a soul-eater who manipulates minds and who had captured Zhou, Benji, and company when he destroyed their world. He's been keeping them in a different dimensional plane, a.k.a. the Void and Marmalade ( Summoned to Thirteenth Grave ). "Farmer Jane" is a zombie.
Background info
The ka-zhouahs are spiritual elementals whose world was destroyed by Kursch.
Charley and Reyes had focused all their life energies on creating a haven for their daughter and have been existing in the heavens, keeping an eye on her ( Summoned to Thirteenth Grave ). Shade demons possess the bodies of the mentally ill and cause them to be violent.
The Cover and Title
The background of the cover is black with golden orange filigrees gradating up to medium royal blue filigrees, reflecting the colors used in the publisher's / series' name in a gradating blue to black and back again. Donovan's tattooed hands, his iron bracelet, and his skull ring are coming through the zeroes in "1001". Below that is the title and series info in turquoise. Below that is an info blurb in the golden orange as is the author's name immediately below it.
The title is where it all begins, at The Graveside Bar and Grill.
August 30, 2022
I'm at a little bit of a loss on how to word this review. First of all, I LOVE this series. I have loved everything about it and especially love the way that Lorelei King does the narrations. The "sayings" and memes at the beginning of each chapter are hilarious...truly.
So, I couldn't wait to dive back in and find out what was happening in Charlie's world. Imagine my surprise when I actually felt a little lost with what was going on. I know, I read a lot of books, and I mean a lot. I kind of remember Donovan but the Doc? Did I know who she really was? I honestly do not remember learning that. And that's quite a BIG thing to learn. Being BFF's with Charlie for 100 years, I can't believe I forgot that (but it has been known to happen...) Anyway, the only reason I'm even mentioning this is that this format felt much too short for the story that was told. The story was interesting. There was a lot of information given out, but it was so freaking rushed.
And that ending. It was like, the necessary word count was achieved and it was like, "okay, and everything was a-okay. The End" Now, obviously I'm being facetious, but it honestly felt like, "what the heck just happened? That was it? Seriously?"
I'm not usually feeling cheated with a story from this author so it came as a bit of a surprise. But, to be fair, maybe I just have high expectations because she always delivers. Either way, I am definitely still onboard as we begin to make the transition to Beep's story (wait, is she even called that anymore....? )
So, I couldn't wait to dive back in and find out what was happening in Charlie's world. Imagine my surprise when I actually felt a little lost with what was going on. I know, I read a lot of books, and I mean a lot. I kind of remember Donovan but the Doc? Did I know who she really was? I honestly do not remember learning that. And that's quite a BIG thing to learn. Being BFF's with Charlie for 100 years, I can't believe I forgot that (but it has been known to happen...) Anyway, the only reason I'm even mentioning this is that this format felt much too short for the story that was told. The story was interesting. There was a lot of information given out, but it was so freaking rushed.
And that ending. It was like, the necessary word count was achieved and it was like, "okay, and everything was a-okay. The End" Now, obviously I'm being facetious, but it honestly felt like, "what the heck just happened? That was it? Seriously?"
I'm not usually feeling cheated with a story from this author so it came as a bit of a surprise. But, to be fair, maybe I just have high expectations because she always delivers. Either way, I am definitely still onboard as we begin to make the transition to Beep's story (wait, is she even called that anymore....? )
August 22, 2022
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5*s of Darynda Jones brilliance
This is another fun novella from the Charley Davidson series, and I would most definitely say that it is a real treat for a fan, but could leave a new reader a little confused. The writing is fabulous, but I do believe that it is much easier to make sense of the scenario if one has the backstory.
I absolutely love all the stories in the series, and am loving that we are getting more ... a drip drip to get us (I am hoping) to another novel in the future! I felt that the first part of this one was a little bit slow, as people need to get up to speed, and then we enjoy the faster pace really increases the tension.
I am not going to give away any of the story, but we do get to meet up with most of our old friends and have some insight into the upcoming battle.
4.5*s of Darynda Jones brilliance
This is another fun novella from the Charley Davidson series, and I would most definitely say that it is a real treat for a fan, but could leave a new reader a little confused. The writing is fabulous, but I do believe that it is much easier to make sense of the scenario if one has the backstory.
I absolutely love all the stories in the series, and am loving that we are getting more ... a drip drip to get us (I am hoping) to another novel in the future! I felt that the first part of this one was a little bit slow, as people need to get up to speed, and then we enjoy the faster pace really increases the tension.
I am not going to give away any of the story, but we do get to meet up with most of our old friends and have some insight into the upcoming battle.
August 21, 2022
Charley Davidson is a series that I ADORE and can't wait for what will come next in this universe, as I have a feeling that there is a lot to come for our Grimm Reper & Reyes (Satan's son) - this duo I adore and s far s I can remember Mr. Farrow was my book crush (I hope Papierowy Księżyc will publish this series -as it's AMAZING!). As always in 1001 Dark Nights it can be read as a stand-alone, but this will not give you all the pleasure and enjoyment it could bring.
Donovan is a biker, that owns the bar from the title, and has a long story with Charley and her tasks on Earth, as well as her offspring, especially that last one - as she will be the one to save the world in the end. You know the drill! The other important person here is Dr. Lucia, that is in danger and will need help in protecting herself, as her life will be in great danger due to bad forces following her as she's not human in the end. Lucia is liked by the most important girl - so, normally, someone will watch over her from our team - and this person will be Donovan - a big, bad biker.
What will come out of this - check this story and dive into Charley Davidson's world that is getting bigger and bigger with amazing stories! What I also loved was Artemis - to see why to read the story, swooning will come over!
Donovan is a biker, that owns the bar from the title, and has a long story with Charley and her tasks on Earth, as well as her offspring, especially that last one - as she will be the one to save the world in the end. You know the drill! The other important person here is Dr. Lucia, that is in danger and will need help in protecting herself, as her life will be in great danger due to bad forces following her as she's not human in the end. Lucia is liked by the most important girl - so, normally, someone will watch over her from our team - and this person will be Donovan - a big, bad biker.
What will come out of this - check this story and dive into Charley Davidson's world that is getting bigger and bigger with amazing stories! What I also loved was Artemis - to see why to read the story, swooning will come over!
December 14, 2022
Series: Charley Davidson #13.7
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
This was another fun installment in the Charley Davidson universe. Donovan St. James has been a part of this series for a long time so it was nice to see him finally find his person. Dr. Lucia Mirabel, aka Sia, was a very interesting heroine. She isn’t exactly human and a soul eater is after her now, hence her trying to run. I enjoyed Donovan and Sia’s story. These two have had the hots for each other for a while and this situation finally pushes them together. Like I said, I did enjoy this but I felt that the destruction of the soul eater was a bit anticlimactic. I also was expecting an epilogue or something like that after they won, but instead it just ended. So overall, I did enjoy this story but the ending was a bit rushed and abrupt.
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
This was another fun installment in the Charley Davidson universe. Donovan St. James has been a part of this series for a long time so it was nice to see him finally find his person. Dr. Lucia Mirabel, aka Sia, was a very interesting heroine. She isn’t exactly human and a soul eater is after her now, hence her trying to run. I enjoyed Donovan and Sia’s story. These two have had the hots for each other for a while and this situation finally pushes them together. Like I said, I did enjoy this but I felt that the destruction of the soul eater was a bit anticlimactic. I also was expecting an epilogue or something like that after they won, but instead it just ended. So overall, I did enjoy this story but the ending was a bit rushed and abrupt.
August 22, 2022
This is the first story I have read from Darynda Jones and it was really good. Donovan is tasked with keeping an eye on the doctor that has been taking care of those that she patches up on his team. Something he doesn't want to deal with but the doctor has always intrigued him. When he starts to tail her things are not as they seem and the more she does something the more his interest is. Sia has a secret and she is trying to save her own life at the same time saying out of the devil's way. She will fight for her life and those she cares about. When Donovan finds her she knows that she has to shake him, but it's not so easy. When the truth is revealed will they be able to fall in love or will the devil come to collect?
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