Member Reviews
OMG, OMG, OMG!!!! How could she let Reyes go there??? ARGH and now I have to wait! Christ, what a cliffhanger! I loved this book. I loved that it was more about Reyes, we learned so much about his past, but the last 2 chapters were just brutal. I need the next installment!!!
Yeah, this book was absolutely amazing! This series has been so freaking great, and I loved having another installment, especially after the ending of The Curse of the Tenth Grave! Of course, things and strange and weird and just wonderful to read!
This book does pick up after The Curse of the Tenth Grave ended, but it doesn't come out and say what Charley did after that ending right away. Nope, things are back to normal and cases and ghosts and dealt with! It's not until later that burning question is answered!
In this book, a lot happens. Like, dealing with the family that kidnapped, and then sold, Reyes. Which is like, about darned time! What they did, was horrible! And then there was the lawyer guy, and more information about Charley's God-ness and history, because things weren't as they seem, and that her memories have been messed with! I want to know more, it needs to be explained! And I'm still having trouble connecting the race of which she was a princess, that decide to become grim reapers with her being a goddess. I know I'm remembering wrong or not enough, but it's aggravating!
There's another evil ending with this book! And it deals with the hell dimension necklace, yeah! Because those innocent souls sent in there just because of an evil pastor guy, yeah, that was great. But oh, that ending was just pure evil! I really hope the next book picks up right after this ending! Because I need to know, I won't be able to handle another beginning like this book's!
Absolutely loved reading this book, and the wait for the 12th book is just going to be horrible and too long!
I'm relieved every time I read a new Charley book to find that she doesn't change. Sure there's character development, but she's just as funny and loveable as she was in book one. This was a fantastic read that made me laugh, made me sad, and of course left me wanting more.
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley and St. Martin's Press.
Since I already love this series I think Darynda Jones has hit another home run. Without exception, each and every character in this series is interesting and/or notable. That's not something I would normally say about a series and certainly not one that's been going on for this length of time. My only slight cause for concern is that Charlie Davidson has moved quite a bit away from her original Grim Reaper role, a part of the series which appeals to me very much. Charlie knew she was the grim reaper (with a bright shiny light like hers, it would be hard to not know and then there's all that business of dead people crossing through her to the other side) but lately she's begun finding out even more things about her super goddessness. A lot of the grim reaper has been left behind because this new path is so important to the story arc. I can't help but miss some of the more simple Charlie/Reyes times. Oh, in case you aren't familiar with this series, Reyes is the son of Satan.
This specific book deals with finding out the full truth regarding the agency which sent Reyes on to his incredibly abusive foster father. The subject has always been on the back burner in the series, but now another possible victim has emerged and Charlie is determined to get to the bottom of how it all came about, especially when a toddler disappears without a trace and the trail begins to lead back to this same agency. As this series has progressed Charlie has continued to find out more and more things about her past and her powers. Reyes knows the answers but he won't tell her, she has to discover the answers for herself. So far she knows she's the grim reaper and she's a god but before the girl can even get used to that whole god thing she discovers that's not even close to everything she needs to know about herself.
One of the things which keeps me coming back to this series is the laugh out loud funny things Charlie says. That woman has a sassy streak equaled only by her sarcastic tendencies. Each chapter in the book begins with a slogan or saying and they are often hilarious. My favorite this time is from Chapter 10: "Thank God I don't have to hunt for my food. I don't even know where tacos live. - MEME" Every time I think about that I have to chuckle. On a more serious note, remember this is book eleven in the series. Lots of things have happened in those previous ten books and even though Ms. Jones tries to keep readers reminded of some of the more recent important developments this would be a 1,000 (or more) page book if she put in everything you need to know about the characters and concept. At least read the first book in the series to get a really good grounding of what the characters are like (First Grave on the Right) and then make the decision about whether or not you want to read them in order. Buy this one, though, so you will have it on hand when you get ready for it. There isn't anything harder than waiting that 5 seconds for a Kindle book to download when you are ready to read!
I read the first 10 Charley Davidson books back to back to back this past summer. Took me a little less than three weeks and I enjoyed every minute of it. It has therefore been quite the wait for the 11th book but Darynda Jones does not disappoint!!!
Once again Charley faces the difficult of solving a case while dealing with family issues and discovering new things about herself and her abilities with humour and strength.
If you have not read any of the Grave series books I can highly recommend them if you are looking for a read that will tickle your funny bone while simultaneously ripping out your heart and heating up your libido.
Be prepared to fall in love with Charley, Reyes and their fabulous gang of misfits.
You've been warned.
A great read for fans of The Blackdagger B|rotherhood, JD Robb In Death or Sookie Stackhouse Series.
While this was a good Charley book, it is by no means the BEST Charley book. Sigh. The amnesia thing (again), Cookie worrying about Uncle Bob (again).... It's starting to feel like an ode to Evanovich and her never ending Stephanie Plum books where Stephanie never progresses as a character and nothing is ever done.
However, what Ms Jones gets right, she excels at. Introducing the Fosters (who may be her most chilling villains ever), Shawn (who was a GREAT multi-faceted character (RIP Shawn)) and Amber's stalker (which was a great idea but the outcome felt rushed and underbaked in a way) - all amazing plot points. Truly great.
That being said, of *course* I'll read the next Charley book because duh - it's Charley. (LOL)
So where to start with this book. I'm a fan of this series and of this author, so I sometimes, when I know there is a new book on the horizon, tend to mildly stalk Darynda on her facebook. And what would you know, that's exactly where she so kindly posted the link to NetGalley, about this story being there up for grabs. Of course I had to get this book and I did. Yes! It's no surprise that I really liked this new story. I can never get enough of Reyes and Charley. I recently started to collect the paperbacks (I can't find the hardcovers and it sucks!), because you know, you can never have enough books. That being said, the mother of all cliffhangers! Are you kidding me?!!!It came out of nowhere! I felt like the last 10% were totaly on a higher lever than the rest of the plot, since that's where we actually continue the story from the previous book, as in what happens with the god that wants to kill Beep. The rest of the plot was more like a nice story but also in a way a filler. I dunno. But I do know that I need the next book ASAP!
But back to the story. The plot is more about Amber and about her stalker, I know, crazy right?! Did not see that one coming. And about Reyes's brother but from a different mother. It all makes sense when you read the book. I loved every page. Charley is as crazy and funny as always and Reyes is simply Reyes. There's not much to say about these two. They simply fit. Charley learns a few new cool things about who she is and what kind of power she possesses, also how to use it. That was definitely fun, especially since some hot and I mean HOT scenes came out of all that learning lesson. ;) We also get to see the rest of the gang. I really liked Osh, he seems like the type of character that you simply grow to love. I really wonder, if we ever get to see him and Beep together, as in they have their own book. That would be so awesome! But firstly we have to save Charley from starting a war with Him and of course the freaking cliffy! That was so not nice! But it does make you wonder what will happen next. I think there are some great new plot twists that we can expect.
Anyway, what I'm trying to say with my long rant, is that you should definitely get the book and read it!
Holy chile rellenos! Like with all of the other Charley Davidson books, this one did NOT disappoint! I was giddy going in and within the first page or so, I began laughing at some of Charley's usual antics. This is what I love about Darynda's writing. She's consistent. This is book eleven in a series and not once has any of the stories lagged in its humor, romance, sexiness, and suspense. It holds the reader captive from beginning to end.
My jaw aches from clenching my teeth together throughout the story. I had to apologize to my fellow medical staff for continually laughing out laugh or gasping at what happened in the book. There was so much that was answered in this book, yet so much that still needs answering. I sort of wished I hadn't read this early so that I wouldn't have to wait as long to discuss this with others, yet I'm so happy I did because wowee! And that ending?! You are horrible Darynda, but I still love you! HEHE! I can't wait for book 12 to be released now!
ARC received from NetGalley for honest review. Thank you!
I liked this book a lot, much more compared to the last 3, so I dare to hope that Darynda Jones is back to her old self and trying to get this series to an end would not be so bad also. The plot thickens and the characters are so funny that sometimes I started laughing in my bed whole reading. The problems are the one we already know, but the story ends with such a cliffhanger, that left me speechless.
Questo libro mi é piaciuto molto piú degli ultimi tre, quindi mi piace pensare che Darynda Jones sia tornata in se stessa e magari non mi dispiacerebbe se stesse pensando anche di dare una fine a questa serie. La trama s'infittisce e i personaggi sono talmente simpatici che a volte mi mettevo a ridere nel letto mentre leggevo. I problemi sono quelli che conosciamo, ma il libro finisce con un tale colpo di scena che sono ancora senza parole.
“I never said I’d die without coffee. I said other people would.”
I usually read mystery/crime type books but over the years, I’ve picked up UF books out of curiosity & for a change of pace. Most ended up being a one-shot deal but eventually I found 3 series that I really enjoy. This is one of them. How could I not bond with a smart mouthed woman who lives for good coffee? It’s like looking in the mirror. The difference is, while I may entertain the odd homicidal thought, Charley Davidson actually is the Grim Reaper.
As usual, Charley has a lot on her plate. The PI business has been a little slow lately & she desperately needs to pick up a case. So when Shawn Foster walks through her door, it’s like a gift from the Gods (literally). Like Reyes, he was also adopted by the Fosters & wants to find his real parents. Charley sees an opportunity to gather more incriminating evidence on the couple but Reyes is less than pleased.
It’s just one more thing on her to-do list. Uncle Bob is acting weird & his wife Cookie thinks he’s having an affair. Meanwhile, Cookie’s daughter Amber is obviously upset & hiding something. Charley is still on the outs with Reyes’ brother & he’s sent an army of angelic minions to track her every move. And she still needs to figure out how to trap a particularly nasty God before he finds where her daughter is stashed. Thank heaven for travel mugs or she’d be in serious danger of caffeine withdrawal.
If you’re a fan of this series you know what to expect & this doesn’t disappoint. The pages fly by as you try to keep pace with dangerous critters & general mayhem, all served up with a generous side of humour. In addition to new twists & characters, running story lines are further developed as Charley continues to discover just what she’s capable of. Inevitably there are showdowns as she tries to establish a solid line between good & evil & not everyone will survive.
The true natures of returning characters & their relationships continues to develop & there are a couple of real shockers here. And that ending. Suffice to say it’s rather abrupt (and scary). But it guarantees that we’ll all be impatiently waiting for book #12.
For the uninitiated, I highly recommend reading this series in order as back story is massive & complex. If you’ve made it this far, you’re well & truly invested in these characters & know that when it comes to spending your reading $$$, you can’t beat smart & funny.
“Life isn’t a fairy tale. If you lose a shoe at midnight, you’re drunk.”
Once again I am in awe of the writing genius of Darynda Jones. What an imagination and storytelling abilities...with characters that literally take your breath away. This series just increases its abilities to bend your mind to actually believe the possibilities of these entities, events, situations, dimensions from existing. It all seems so plausible, with the perfect mixture of conjecture and truth to create a story that leaves you on the edge waiting as you turn the pages.
The dialog, as always, is hilarious, snappy and flows so seamlessly from beginning to end. There are several layers of stories interwoven together...done in such away to not be confusing in the least. At close inspection, you'll see that they are all related to the big picture, and entertaining at its finest. I simply cannot get enough of Charlie and her smart mouth...she can either defuse a situation in a heartbeat, or blow it completely out of the water. Over time, through the growth of the series, the characters have become more that words on a page...they are real and exist to bring a reading experience like no other. Now the wait begins for the next installment...I wouldn't quite say the endings are cliff hangers per se, but more an enticement to leave you wanting more, to make sure your appetite has been whet for the next book in the series.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I'm not sure what can be said about an 11th book in a series that I ADORE but this one seems to have brought back the Charley Davidson we know. While I am hoping she "grows up" just a bit more and actually talks to Reyes and Ubie about cases she is working on, I also know that she is who she is and wanting her to "grow up" seems absurd as that is the girl we all fell in love with in book 1.
Getting back to book 11. The chapter quotes are still on point. The characters that we love get some face time and of course Charley is once again in danger and Reyes is there to help, mock, and teach her about who she really is.
But UGH the CLIFFHANGER. While I saw it coming chapters away or even a book away, I was still pissed when I came to the last page and there wasn't anymore. Waiting for book 12 will be TORTURE and not in the fun will always live Charley/Reyes way.
I can honestly say that the Charley Davidson series is my all time favorite. Darynda Jones has cracked the code of keeping a series fresh even after 10 books. I love every character in this series and they all play such an important role in what makes this series so amazing. In Eleventh Grave in Moonlight Charley is up to her usual Private Investigating activities while also dealing with the paranormal danger that is hanging over the gangs heads. The combination of the two is just perfect and makes the read so enjoyable.
In each book we discover new things that may rock Charley and Reyes world. But they are not without support from their friends and family. These group of people are amazing, I especially love Angel. His scenes are my favorites and I just love his interaction with Charley. In this book Uncle Bob is acting really strange, but nobody knows what is going on. We get to see more of Reyes' past and it is heartbreaking. Also Charley takes a case where she has to investigate Reyes' foster parents which Reyes is against. He does his best to get her to drop the case, but Charley is very headstrong and goes against his wishes. Reyes is still my number one book boyfriend, he is such an alpha male and very protective. The love between Charley and Reyes is perfect.
This book is a phenomenal addition to the series. It just gets better and better and the ending has me anticipating the next book like an addict. My love for the characters has grown stronger each book and I just hope this series never ends. I see the characters as part of my family and I cry when they cry and laugh when they laugh. This series is the only one that can make me laugh out loud one moment and cry the other. Charley is the best and I love her quirky and crazy ways, she is one of a kind and I can't wait for Reyes and her to reach their full potential. All the characters continue to grow each book and their bond becomes stronger.
Darynda Jones once again takes us on a rollercoaster ride of highs, lows and action packed twisty plots. Just when you think you have a handle on the characters, everything can change on a dime. Don't let this series pass you buy. Eleventh Grave is another gem in the series. By the last page you'll be screening for twelve.
I am so so so so sad.
Firstly, can I say a huge well done to Darynda Jones for writing yet another amazing book. Secondly, a huge thanks to the people at St.Martin's press and on Netgalley for letting me read this before the official release date!
Okay, so I loved every single second of this book. I finished it in a day (and that is so upsetting because now I have to wait ages for the next one:( ) and cannot wait to read what happens next.
My favourite thing about this series is that one second it can have you crying, the next giggling like a loon! Charley is hilarious and will do anything she can to help those she loves - which generally gets her into trouble! I was disappointed that we didn't see any more of rocket or Nick the ADA guy or find out what happened to Taft - I'm hoping that we'll find out in the next book!
Also, there's a huge frigging cliffhanger at the end and I'm now emotionally compromised :)
Wow! What a fantastic book! Once I started Eleventh Grave in Moonlight, I had to stay up all night to finish it. Author Darynda Jones' characters grabbed me in the first paragraph (protagonist Charley Davidson, Dr Mayfield, "dead kid scurrying across her ceiling") and didn't let me go until I got to the last page.
There are several subplots, as well as the main plot, with climaxes for each. This makes the final five or six chapters exciting to the max. And the ending.... Talk about a cliffhanger — the final two sentences:
I may have just made the biggest mistake of my entire existence. I may have just unleashed [spoiler].
Book #12 cannot be published fast enough! I can't wait to read it!
I devoured this book whole on a train trip. It was marvelous. I'm not sure this was the best book in the series, but it's right up there. Once I got towards the end, it was non-stop action. The few times I came up for air, it took me a few seconds to remember why I was on a train, not in the middle of the action. This is not a book to read before bed. It took me forever to settle down after I finished it. And, given the way it ended, I can't wait for the next book.