While I've been a die hard fan since the First Grave on the Right, I wasn't in love with this installment of Charley Davidson. I get that Charley is a smart-ass grim reaper who is also a powerful goddess. I get that Reyes is her hotter-than-sin husband who happens to be the son of Satan as well as a powerful god. I get that their life is chaotic and they're always either fighting off a nemesis, tracking down a vengeful demon or protecting an innocent from the evils of the world. However, I've been on this ride for a long time, and I just want it stop so I can get off. Don't get me wrong. I love this crazy world that Darynda Jones has created, but this story made me feel like saying "been there, done that, got the t-shirt." It felt it was a rehash of everything that Charley's been through in the previous books. There were no "aha" moments and nothing that made me want to flip to the next page in anticipation, In a perfect book world Charley and Reyes would finally settle into a sense of normalcy with their friends, family and most of all their daughter, Beep. I'm not sure how many books are left in this series, but I hope Ms. Jones is working towards giving her fans the ultimate HEA. Plus, I'm eager to see what else she can create with that wickedly talented brain of hers.

OH, MY GOSH!!!!! I LOVED IT! If you have not read this series, you need to start at the beginning now.

Charley is back and doing her normal everyday stuff. Working as a part time PI, full time Grim Reaper is no easy thing. In this book, Charley is trying to learn about her history, as she is a goddess. She is looking into a case hoping to save the world from evil. She has her Uncle, Cookie, and her Husband the son of Satan helping her. All she must do is keep it together then she will have her happy ever after she wants, or will she?

I am not going to say any more about what is in the book. But I DO want you to know I CAN’T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK!

For the first time in a very long time, I’ve read a book in one of my long standing favorite series that has left me a little… stumped. I have loved this series from the very beginning and devour each new book like it’s the last thing on earth to read. Usually, I am left with a smile on my face and a sense of satisfaction that is soon replaced with anticipation for the next book. Yet, Eleventh Grave in Moonlight left me absolutely indifferent. It wasn’t that I didn’t enjoy the story because some of Charley’s best zingers have come from its pages, but so much of it was focused on Amber’s plight with stalker and Ubie’s sudden mood change that I’m not sure how it fits into the series. Sure, there was Reyes and Charley’s never ending battle of “Don’t do it” and “You’re not the boss of me, son of Satan” mixed in with the other story lines, but something just didn’t feel right to me. It was if something was missing and even days later, I can’t put my finger on what it was.

Fast forward to the end of the book, and things are suddenly getting back from track from Tenth Grave. In true Charley style, the end turns the doom and destruction meter to 11. Fast Jones leaves us with a major cliffhanger and seems to be setting up the ending to the series with confusion and fear about Reyes and Charley’s survival power with what is to come. I can only hope that my brain was playing tricks on me with the subtle tones that I picked up reading this at 3am.

The Easter eggs laid in this book about what could be impending doom for one of our beloved characters set a chill in my literary bones. While I have longed to get a chance to read more about Beep, I’m honestly afraid of what’s to come when she does make her grand entrance onto the scene and faces her destiny. Will she upstage her mother and father? I sure hope not, but all signs are beginning to point to maybe with the last two books in the series coming within the next year or so.

Maybe 11th Grave was filler to the action-packed conclusion to this series. The ending sure points in that fiery path and I just hope Charley, Reyes, and company can reach the final chapter un-singed.

Four and a half stars: A series that continues to entertain as it matures.

There is never a dull moment in a day in the life of Charley Davidson, Private Investigator and Grim Reaper. Charley is still coming to terms with her identity, and the fact that her daughter is being raised in seclusion to protect her. Unfortunately, Charley has many enemies, including demons who want to banish her as well as some religious fanatics. Will Charley get control over her powers and conquer or will she falter because she can't find the right T shirt to wear?
What I Liked:
*Sometimes when a series hits the eleventh book, it isn't always a guarantee that the story will still be as good. Luckily, that is not the case with the Charley Davidson series. Charley is growing, slowly but surely, and the series continues to be entertaining, exciting and funny. Never a dull moment with a Charley Davidson book.
*Charley is evolving and maturing, as best as she can. I am happy to see that she is finally accepting her god identity and that she is learning to use her powers. One of my biggest complaints about this series, especially early on, was that Charley was always getting her ass kicked. Thankfully, she is learning to wield her almighty powers, and she is doing some impressive things. I can't wait to see her reach her full potential. However, even though she is growing more powerful, she still maintains that air headed nature, which readers love. I can't help but giggle at some of her hilarious one liners.
More and more details are coming out as far as the big overall story arc is concerned. It is setting up to be one big bad epic show down between the forces of good and evil.
*Even though I find the big story interesting, I am always drawn to the small cases that incorporate each book. This time around, Charley tangles with a religious fanatic cult, takes on a stalker and she endeavors to save Uncle Bob's soul. I enjoyed watching each and every one of these smaller stories unfold.
*I continue to love this series on audiobook. Lorelei King narrates the audiobooks, and without a doubt, she is one of my all time favorite narrators. Ms. King is Charley Davidson for me. I don't think I would love this series as much if I read it vs. listening to it. If you haven't tried the audiobooks, do it. They are fantastic!
And The Not So Much:
*This has been a growing niggle for me, I am still frustrated with the secrets in Charley and Reyes' relationship. They promised one another that they wouldn't keep secrets, and once again they aren't honest with one another. I wish their relationship would mature.
*This series is becoming notorious for it's brutal cliffhangers, which is frustrating. Once again, the book ends with a nasty cliffhanger. Ugh!

Eleventh Grave is another entertaining and exciting book in a beloved series. I like that Charley is coming to terms with her identity and evolving. However, be warned this one ends with a nasty cliffhanger. Let's hope the next book will be out soon.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.

Leanne's Tales From The Heart Netgalley ARC Review:

Darynda Jones you rock! This book put me back on the hook, I love this series. I love how each chapter starts with a meme and gets me laughing. The author manages to add all these hilarious moments between the drama and danger. Charley and Reyes are evolving in each book, more and more powers coming to light. As well as their pasts catching up with them. Reyes sounds like one hot dude, the chemistry between them is combustible

The ending!! OMG the ending!! I'm repeating myself but the ending!!! When is the next book?
I highly recommend this series, this one is the best...well so far.

I cannot get enough of Darynda Jones and Reyes and Charley! I NEED to know what happens next. I read this book all in one sitting. I started to feel frustrated as it seems like Darynda is dragging along the story, but by the end, I just want to know how my favourite characters are faring and what happens next. Highly addictive storytelling!

Every time I read a grim book by Darynda jones I think she can't top this one, then the next one come out and I love it even more then the last. She's done it again. Charlie learns some much needed skills in book 11, helps take down Ambers stalker and sends Reyes into the god glass.......its action packed and funny.....waiting patiently for number 12.

With so many series, by the time it hits book eleven there have been a couple that haven’t been that spectacular. But I have enjoyed every book in the Charley Davidson series. I continue to laugh, and sometimes even shed a tear or two.

And I love that the story is evolving so much. What started out as a mystery in every book with the grim reaper trying to solve it, has changed into a mystery with a powerful god trying to help people. Even with Charley being as powerful as she is, her sass helps to lighten up the situation.

We get to enjoy and learn more about all the usual characters, except Rocket. But we do get to spend more time with his sister, so I did like that. I think Strawberry could be a very interesting character, with just the right amount of creepiness in her.

In this book we get to learn more about Rhys and his childhood, as well as get entangled with a mystery that involves child abduction and cults. I don’t want to say too much because you need to read it, and enjoy it for yourself. I will say that there is another cliff hanger at the end, but I don’t mind those. It just makes me want to read the next book even more.

With some series you can read the books out of order, but with this series, you really should start at the beginning with First Grave on the Right. There are just so many little insights that you will miss, if you don’t.

When you read a Charley Davidson novel, you need to be prepared for a fast-paced book. Everything happens quickly, which I would attribute to the amount of coffee our darling Charley consumes. Truly? I don't think she sleeps.

True to previous books, Charley takes on cases to work while she also wrestles with all she is learning about herself and the world. Charley has been watching the Fosters, despite Reyes' disapproval. He is downright adamant that she not take on this case. Charley isn't going to let somebody tell her what to do. And with Ubie acting all strange and trying to tell her what to do too, she's really sick of it. So what do you do when people demand you do one thing? You do the opposite.

So many things happen throughout Eleventh Grave and you have to be careful not to miss anything. The cases and investigations Charley takes on are very close to her. People she loves are in situations that can't be ignored and in the midst of those situations she is being flooded with information on what she is truly capable of and bits of her memory are explained. She not only finds out new things she is capable of, but that that there are rules to what she can and cannot do with her powers. The problem is that she needs to learn how to use these powers effectively to help her and those she loves in times of trouble.

Despite all that circles around Charley, she somehow keeps her sense of humor, her strategic plans and her love of coffee from being affected. That is what makes Charley Davidson one of my favorite characters. She can really keep it together in most cases. Granted she somehow always finds herself in situations where you have to wonder just how she (or someone she loves) is going to survive. Those times alone keep me freaked and reading at a frantic pace.

Then there is my biggest complaint, if you want to call it a complaint. It's the endings. They are kind of cliffhangers, or at least the last few have been. I will admit, the end of this book came around and there was some violent cursing at the book and Darynda. How can I wait after this happens. I had no idea that was coming and it is going to really throw you for a curve ball. I am so freaked out, there are no words.

Charley's life has become really complicated and it is kind of hard to keep up. You definitely do not want to try and jump in here. So much happens in the previous books building up to what we know is going to be a big ending. This could be why we are being left in a state of panic at the end of each installment. I am beyond ready for the Trouble With Twelfth Grave. I have become so immersed in this series that sometimes my feelings overwhelm me and to me that is the sign of a great book.

To help you totally immerse in the story is the narration of Lorelei King. She takes on each character with such feeling that you flow into each character. Lorelei has just made them part of the series and I can't imagine not listening to this series. I don't think my head could create the voices with the skill that Lorelei King does.

I loved reading the spellbinding, intriguing, enthralling, and exciting paranormal romance by the phenomenally talented Darynda Jones. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader's copy from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley.
Even though Charley's husband, Reyes, doesn't want her to take Shawn Foster's case, Reyes continues to protect and surround Charley with his love and help her learn how to use her new powers. As Charley tries to help Shawn, enemies and evil beings hunt Charley, Beep, and her loved ones.
Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written story line full of twists and turns, and a must read love story of Charley and Reyes.

In a Flutter: Delicious and evil!
Fluttering Thoughts:
Worldbuilding: The usual fascinating world of the Charley Davidson series, full of paranormal elements – ghosts, gods (from this or other dimensions), magic artifacts, demons – all delicious.
Characters: Charley was as fun, irreverent, kick-ass, and passionate as I expected her to be. And what a delight she is! I could probably read 1000 books about her and would never, ever tire of her awesomesauceness. I loved to see her accommodating to her new godly status – and how awesome is it to just say that about her, lol? – and I loved every minute of it.
Reyes was just as smoldering, alpha-licious, and irresistible as always – if not more. The relationship between him and Charley had its ups and downs, and the tension made it all the hotter imo. But that ending!! For freak’s sake, that ending!! Shiver me panties!!
Plot: There were some twists and turns I didn’t expect – hello, godly appearances! – and there’s an undercurrent of relativism regarding gods and the godly nature in a somewhat Greek-gods-esque way and I always enjoy some good relativism. There’s a lot of action, some Charley-specific insanity, some mystery-solving and crime-fighting (yummy!). The romance tangent is just as interesting, with tensions in the couple, super-fun banter, and some hot one on one making up. The end of the novel might give you a moment of temporary insanity, but I trust Darynda Jones to make make it all good in the next one – coming end of October, btw. Yey!
Writing: First person, past tense narrative, 1st person POV. Kickass snarky writing style, Charley’s voice is the best thing since the discovery and popularization of coffee.
Curb Appeal: Cool cover, hooking blurb – instabuy author name and series anyways.

I enjoyed Eleventh Grave in Moonlight more than I did previous titles for some reason. Maybe because I was in a particularly shitty mood when reading it, and it came like a much-needed breath of delightfully fresh air.
I recommend Eleventh Grave in Moonlight to fans of UF, PNR, sleuth-ing xD and general kickasness, but particularly to lovers of strong MCs with a snarky and coffee-loving nature.

Eleventh Grave and Going Strong!
Eleventh Grave in Moonlight - Darynda Jones

ELEVENTH GRAVE IN THE MOONLIGHT is the latest addition to the Charley Davidson series and it's brought with it all of the things we've grown to love about Charley, Reyes in the gang, but also has given us just a bit more insight into the girl who is the Grim Reaper.

Charley's life is moving along swimmingly. If you don't count that fact that a hell god is after her, she ticked off Jehovah, her daughter has to be hidden for her safety, and she's a goddess with powers that she's having trouble controlling. But, when the son of the people who kidnapped her husband shows up wanted her to investigate his so-called "parents", things start get interesting.

ELEVENTH GRAVE IN THE MOONLIGHT kept up that more serious tone that I noticed in the last book. That is not to say that there isn't any silliness in the book. If there wasn't, I don't think she'd be Charley anymore. But, I think that she's being more mindful of her powers and the world beyond just her. Becoming a mom changed her and made her stronger because her ultimate goal is keeping her daughter safe.

Now, I thought this book was excellent overall. It had a great plot and we got to learn some pretty important details of what Charley is and what more she can do. But, I thought that some of the sex scenes were unnecessary. Yes, I said that. Just a few. They just weren't integral to the story and could have been handled another way.

Honestly though, it's my only complaint of the whole book. ELEVENTH GRAVE IN THE MOONLIGHT was fast paced, exciting, and fun. The ending was fantastic and has me super excited for the next book. For those who don't know, this is the eleventh book in the Charley Davidson series. If you haven't read the series yet, this is not the book to start with. Start at the beginning and work your way up. You won't regret it. I think it's amazing that we are eleven books in and I'm still excited for the series. That is the sign of a fantastic author!!

*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*

Since this is the 11th book in the series, it is hard not to reveal anything that may be a spoiler for those not this far in the series. Charley is a private investigator and a portal for the dead to leave earth aka the grim reaper. She is more than she seems and has learned more in each book that gets more exciting Charley investigates a disappearance that may or may not be connected to Reyes' past. She also takes a client/case that he wants her to drop. Amber, her niece, is being stalked. Beep is being protected by hiding with trusted friends. Her Uncle is being secretive leaving Cookie to wonder what's going on. The case leads to a showdown that heart poundingly knocks your socks off. The usual snark, humor, hotness and loveable characters are present in this book that left me drooling for book 12.

I knew exactly how I was going to start this review while I was reading Eleventh Grave in Moonlight and then, that ending happened and now everything's in the air. Now, I know it's not the first time Ms. Jones has given us a cliffhanger, but you see, this past month I've been binge reading the Charley Davidson series and while I took a few breaks in between, the endings didn't really bother me because I had the next book all ready to go and waiting for me when I needed it. I don't have that luxury anymore, so you'll have to forgive me for freaking out and wanting to cry a little. I'm going to snap out of it though, and I'm here to tell you that Eleventh Grave in Moonlight was the bomb - it was just so good!

Ah, so before The Event, otherwise known as The Cliffhanger from Hell (pun not intended, but definitely got an evil chuckle out of me when I thought of it) I had debated on whether or not I should talk about Reyes or if I really needed to because while I'm a relative newbie to this series, I don't think Mr. Farrow needs any explanation necessary. I will say that I love the man, but sometimes... oh! He just gets me, you know? Reyes can be so frustrating on the one hand and then he'll totally melt your heart on the other - it's annoying in that man way, but you still can't help but love him and I do. I love Reyes Alexander Farrow whether I want to kill him or kiss him - he has me.

And Charley Davidson just has to be like the best heroine in the history of all the world! I absolutely love her and I'm officially dubbing her my Favorite Heroine of All-Time. Charley is a bada*s, she's hilarious, witty, and sarcastic and everything I want to be when I grow up. I have mad love for Charley Davidson and I'm only sad that it took me this long to meet her because I've truly been missing out, but I promise I never will again!

I've loved every Charley Davidson book that I've read - including this one - but I do have to say that Eleventh Grave in Moonlight was just... more. There were more crazy twists and turns, more heartache, more steam, and it kept me on the edge of my seat, barely able to tear myself away. It is without a doubt the best book that Ms. Jones has written so far and I can only imagine what else she in store for us, but you can bet as much as Charley loves coffee and Reyes, that I will be there to see what she does to this extraordinary series!

Okay, so if you haven't read the Charley Davidson series, you could technically read Eleventh Grave in Moonlight because of the way Ms. Jones writes, but it would be full of spoilers if you went back and read the other books. I would really recommend that you read it in order not only because of spoilers, but because they are all amazing stories and definitely worth the read. It's only told from Charley's POV and you already know about the cliffhanger status, so I'll just leave you with the fact that it was incredible and I will be waiting impatiently for the next book!

~ A Hopeless Romantic's Booklandia, 5 Stars

"How better to learn to control this than to give you dire consequences if you fail. Male logic at its finest, ladies and gentlemen." A great summary of the logic behind Charley learning to use her powers.

After slight disappointment with the last two books in the series I finally got what I was craving, and that's more Reyes. He is such a complex hero and, let's be honest, one of the main reasons I follow the series. So I was unsatisfied with the direction his storyline took in books 9-10. He didn't really have an active role in Charley's investigations, or even that many interactions with her beyond her ogling him and his spectacular behind. He was more of a decoration rather than a main character in the last two books. And so I was extremely happy with Eleventh Grave because we finally get more of Reyes in this book. His role is much more active, he spends a lot more time with Charley and even helps her with the investigation. We also learn some very interesting things about him and his past. And I absolutely loved the ending of Eleventh Grave, it was a perfect setup for the next book.
After giving previous two books 3 stars, I am giving Eleventh Grave in Moonlight 4.5 stars because the series is finally back on track with the story and the characters I fell in love in the beginning of the series. I cannot wait for the Twelfth Grave!

ONLY A 4.75 Star Book and Ms. Jones has some explaining to do!



All you busy urban fantasy readers should be set for this weekend as Darynda Jones' Charley Davidson series has a new book that released this week, this is the eleventh book in the series and is entitled Eleventh Grave in the Moonlight.

The book with shock and infuriate a lot of Jones' devoted readers as there are major jaw drop moments in this book. Other reviewers may spoil it for you but I refuse to. As I write this review I am still stunned by what Jones' wrote. I went back and re read the WTH moments! I then cracked open a bottle of Jose and decided to drown my mind **** while snuggling on Captian Kirk, Charley's couch.

The book picks up short days after Tenth Grave ends.... and Charley is not doing to good at being a god. I adore Charley, but Charley plus divine powers has disaster waiting to happen written all over it. Big Neon letters warning of impending doom. Yes more than likely Charley will be a great disaster but you can make an omelette without cracking a few eggs. :-) This book centers around the Foster's evil kidnappers of baby Reyes. Which has been a minor plot footnote in previous books. Wow... Charley really needs to get her 'A' game back on as the girl channels more Jose Whedon than is healthy for anyone one god. Her ADHD is in full overdrive. Plus, Charley needs a lying 101 class as she still sucks at it, which only endears me more to her as a character.



When I first started reading these books, the sex was pretty tame. Well holy hell that was several books ago and Charley and Reyes kept me tingly and happy several times while reading. Damned those godly powers have sizzled up the sex. The book was so hawt my kindle melted. (Note to self send Darynda Jones bill for new kindle and iPhone as I had to verify the hotness with a reread of those scenes. Should I send a bill for my new Han Solo too? That maybe pushing it too far.) (You'll need to read the book to get the joke.)

Now you are wondering why if I loved this book and got really super tingly why I didn't give the book a full five stars. It's because I am a meanie. You don't get five stars if you Ms. Jones don't include Rocket. Sorry if I don't get at least a Hi from Rocket you are not getting your full five stars! The Beast from Hell aka Strawberry Shortcake does not replace a Hi from Rocket. Plus, you know you left me hanging on a few things. You know what I'm talking about. (I may have just stuck my tongue out at my laptop, and waggled my finger.) Yes, I get it Charley didn't really need Rocket, but a really good friend would pop in for no reason just to say HI! I think I have made my point. Plus no Quentin, I love that kid. I can't wait months or longer to see him. Geez you are just cruel. He maybe bouncing around your head but I need words on paper.

Okay yes you gave me Osh and sexy Angels plus the Ishy Jammies and Ubie but really write faster and more. Four to five books a year!

Thanks

This is a great book; this is the eleventh book in the Charley Davidson series written by Darynda Jones. As a part time Private Investigator and full-time Grim Reaper, Charley has to balance the good, the bad, the undead, and those who want her dead. In this eleventh installment, Charley is learning to make peace with the fact that she is a goddess with all kinds of power and that her own daughter has been born to save the world from total destruction. But the forces of hell are determined to see Charley banished forever to the darkest corners of another dimension. With the son of Satan himself as her husband and world-rocking lover, maybe Charley can find a way to have her happily ever after after all. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

I love Charley Davidson and her quest to save the world when she's not busy being the grim reaper. Charlie is a wonderful goddess and made a deal to save her husband, the son of Satan, and become the grim reaper and had all her memories repressed. This is a fun read and is the 11th book in the series. There are forces of evil that want to get rid of Charlie as she starts to figure out how to manipulate the situation to her advantage. You don't need to read the first 10 books to enjoy this one but you'll want to find them all to catch all the nuances.

Despite a weak start, mostly with Charley and Reyes having "personal" time together, the 2/3rds that followed reminded me more of the first couple of books in the series. Charley actually works on a case. It still involves Reyes and without his consent though.

So, while I give this book a like rating and enjoyed it more than the 10th book which had Charley acting like she was in heat, the real weakness in this series for me is the sexual component and total lack of a believable relationship between Charley and Reyes. I cannot understand why so many readers rave about them. While they talk to each other a bit more here, they still do not have a functional relationship. The author is making the whole supernatural relationship more complicated book after book to where it's gotten ridiculous. The lack of these characters sitting down and having a serious talk about their situation and expectations of their relationship is just stupid and only puts them and others in a more dangerous situation.

Reading this I'm like "Why are you giving this a like? It sounds like you want to walk away." Well,as someone who's gotten through 11 books I'm still curious as to what will happen including with the secondary characters. I did like most of the bad guy story line. It satisfied me enough to give it 3.5 and round up to 4.

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.