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Charley Davidson #10
The Curse of Tenth Grave
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fantasy (2016)As a part-time PI and full-time grim reaper, Charley Davidson has asked a lot of questions throughout her life:
Why can I see dead people?
Who is the hot supernatural entity following me?
How do I get gum out of my sister’s hair before she wakes up?
But, “How do I trap not one malevolent god, but three?” was never among them. Until now. And since those gods are on earth to kill her daughter, she has little choice but to track them down, trap them, and cast them from this dimension.
There’s just one problem. One of the three stole her heart a very long time ago. Can the Razer, a god of absolute death and destruction, change his omniscient spots, or will his allegiances lie with his brothers?
Those are just a few of the questions Charley must answer, and quick. Add to that a homeless girl running for her life, an innocent man who’s been charged with murder, and a pendant made from god glass that has the entire supernatural world in an uproar, and Charley has her hands full. If she can manage to take care of the whole world-destroying-gods thing, we’re saved. If not, well…
Why can I see dead people?
Who is the hot supernatural entity following me?
How do I get gum out of my sister’s hair before she wakes up?
But, “How do I trap not one malevolent god, but three?” was never among them. Until now. And since those gods are on earth to kill her daughter, she has little choice but to track them down, trap them, and cast them from this dimension.
There’s just one problem. One of the three stole her heart a very long time ago. Can the Razer, a god of absolute death and destruction, change his omniscient spots, or will his allegiances lie with his brothers?
Those are just a few of the questions Charley must answer, and quick. Add to that a homeless girl running for her life, an innocent man who’s been charged with murder, and a pendant made from god glass that has the entire supernatural world in an uproar, and Charley has her hands full. If she can manage to take care of the whole world-destroying-gods thing, we’re saved. If not, well…
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2016
872 people are currently reading
12939 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 1,660 reviews
June 27, 2016
Wow, that ending!
... but I digress. Let's start from the beginning, shall we?
This was my reaction after finishing Ninth Grave:
Please don't let Reyes turn evil.
Please don't cast Reyes from this dimension.
Please don't let Reyes diiiiie. *Brokenhearted sobbing* :-(
--
Thinking back to the first book, Charley has really come a long way. Gone are the (comparatively) easy days of tracking missing people and chasing the bad guys. Not that she isn't still tracking missing people or hunting baddies, but the baddies are of a slightly more sinister calibre, and Charley's PI work is no longer the main attraction for me. How can it be when Beep is the niece of... Nah, not telling! Reyes is the brother of...oh, I wish I could tell you! How Charley's extended family is willing to brave the fires of hell for her sake... So many secrets, such underhandeness from beings who should have been beyond all that. Blackmail from "that" particular entity? Tsk, tsk! Talk about taking a family feud too far.
Not that I don't adore Charley's line of work, it's just that I had waited a year to find out what sinister(?) secrets were lurking behind Reyes's sexy, brooding exterior. For once, I felt that Charley's missing person's search could easily have been cut in favor of more- ahem - Reyes time;-) ... And Beep (well, Osh time. Love that Daeva!)
I know, I know, Charley's line of work - and particular brand of humor - is a big part of the attraction for readers of this series, but by now, so many life-changing events have been put in motion that I would have loved more focus on "the big picture". The big picture being that Reyes and Charley are deities- and seemingly on opposite sides... Despite the continued hilarity, this series is taking on a darker edge now that Charley has been charged with expelling Reyes from this dimension and Lucifer and his Uzan cohorts are gunning for them all. Could this really be what finally tears them apart?
After the events that took place in Ninth Grave, I desperately wanted to see them happily reunited, but Charley's Earthly dad really put a stop to that... Easy to be distrustful when your hubby is an escapee from Uzan, I suppose. Be prepared to go through a lot of anguish before you learn who Reyes is, what his intentions really are, and why a goddess from another dimension accepted the lowly job of reaper in the first place.
Despite the whopper of a secret Charley's dad divulged before departing for the afterlife, I couldn't help but cheer for our two favorite out-of-this-world spouses. I just wish I could slap some sense into Reyes. (Is slapping a God a good idea? Probably not.) Why did I want to slap him? Well, you'll just have to read the book to find out, because trust me, you will understand why I want him to man up. But I will say this, he makes an awesome, protective dad. And he's NOT about to let his daughter date anyone he disapproves of... Actually, this is the first time Reyes and I are in complete disagreement. I'd LOVE the two of them to find happiness. I've heard mention of a spin-off, and let me just say, that is an AWESOME idea! (Be still, my swooning heart.)
Charley's extended human family is as fabulous as they've always been. Throughout the course of ten books, Charley had amassed friends she can be proud of . From biological family, to family by choice, as well as those who never got to be family, until now... Oh, and the Daeva, let's not forget the soul eating Daeva. They may be figments of Darynda's imagination to me they're so much more. I love them for their willingness to back Charley against demons, cunning gods, and the fires of hell for her sake, and man, I didn't want this book to end. Especially not with that cliffhanger... I don't think I can take that particular heartbreak...
So does Reyes indeed die, like I feared? Well,that's the thing about arc reviews, I really can't spoil you. You'll just have to find out for yourself. And what a ride it will be.
Tenth Grave was another excellent addition to the series. It started out a little slow for me, as I said, I wanted to read about celestial machinations, not PI business, but I was richly rewarded in the last quarter of the book.
And did I mention how very ready I am for an epic ass whooping in the next installment? So he's coming for Charley? bring it on! If you ask me, it's time for a new management you-know-where! Because nobody messes with Charley or her family, am I right?
Actual rating: 4.5 stars.
~eArc courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review~
... but I digress. Let's start from the beginning, shall we?
This was my reaction after finishing Ninth Grave:
Please don't let Reyes turn evil.
Please don't cast Reyes from this dimension.
Please don't let Reyes diiiiie. *Brokenhearted sobbing* :-(
--
Thinking back to the first book, Charley has really come a long way. Gone are the (comparatively) easy days of tracking missing people and chasing the bad guys. Not that she isn't still tracking missing people or hunting baddies, but the baddies are of a slightly more sinister calibre, and Charley's PI work is no longer the main attraction for me. How can it be when Beep is the niece of... Nah, not telling! Reyes is the brother of...oh, I wish I could tell you! How Charley's extended family is willing to brave the fires of hell for her sake... So many secrets, such underhandeness from beings who should have been beyond all that. Blackmail from "that" particular entity? Tsk, tsk! Talk about taking a family feud too far.
Not that I don't adore Charley's line of work, it's just that I had waited a year to find out what sinister(?) secrets were lurking behind Reyes's sexy, brooding exterior. For once, I felt that Charley's missing person's search could easily have been cut in favor of more- ahem - Reyes time;-) ... And Beep (well, Osh time. Love that Daeva!)
I know, I know, Charley's line of work - and particular brand of humor - is a big part of the attraction for readers of this series, but by now, so many life-changing events have been put in motion that I would have loved more focus on "the big picture". The big picture being that Reyes and Charley are deities- and seemingly on opposite sides... Despite the continued hilarity, this series is taking on a darker edge now that Charley has been charged with expelling Reyes from this dimension and Lucifer and his Uzan cohorts are gunning for them all. Could this really be what finally tears them apart?
After the events that took place in Ninth Grave, I desperately wanted to see them happily reunited, but Charley's Earthly dad really put a stop to that... Easy to be distrustful when your hubby is an escapee from Uzan, I suppose. Be prepared to go through a lot of anguish before you learn who Reyes is, what his intentions really are, and why a goddess from another dimension accepted the lowly job of reaper in the first place.
Despite the whopper of a secret Charley's dad divulged before departing for the afterlife, I couldn't help but cheer for our two favorite out-of-this-world spouses. I just wish I could slap some sense into Reyes. (Is slapping a God a good idea? Probably not.) Why did I want to slap him? Well, you'll just have to read the book to find out, because trust me, you will understand why I want him to man up. But I will say this, he makes an awesome, protective dad. And he's NOT about to let his daughter date anyone he disapproves of... Actually, this is the first time Reyes and I are in complete disagreement. I'd LOVE the two of them to find happiness. I've heard mention of a spin-off, and let me just say, that is an AWESOME idea! (Be still, my swooning heart.)
Charley's extended human family is as fabulous as they've always been. Throughout the course of ten books, Charley had amassed friends she can be proud of . From biological family, to family by choice, as well as those who never got to be family, until now... Oh, and the Daeva, let's not forget the soul eating Daeva. They may be figments of Darynda's imagination to me they're so much more. I love them for their willingness to back Charley against demons, cunning gods, and the fires of hell for her sake, and man, I didn't want this book to end. Especially not with that cliffhanger... I don't think I can take that particular heartbreak...
So does Reyes indeed die, like I feared? Well,that's the thing about arc reviews, I really can't spoil you. You'll just have to find out for yourself. And what a ride it will be.
Tenth Grave was another excellent addition to the series. It started out a little slow for me, as I said, I wanted to read about celestial machinations, not PI business, but I was richly rewarded in the last quarter of the book.
And did I mention how very ready I am for an epic ass whooping in the next installment? So he's coming for Charley? bring it on! If you ask me, it's time for a new management you-know-where! Because nobody messes with Charley or her family, am I right?
Actual rating: 4.5 stars.
~eArc courtesy of Netgalley in exchange for an honest review~
June 29, 2016
Yay!!! Reyes and Charley are BACK!!!
Man, I just love this series! I can't get enough of it! Mystery + action + hilarious scenes + badass characters, what's not to love, right? I know some say that the plot is always the same with Charley solving crimes but she's a private investigator so...it's kinda her job, people! I love that in each book we get that and more. Sure, crime solving is fun but the best part is for sure seeing more of Reyes, at least that's how it's for me. He's just so perfect and damn Charley for snatching him up before I could *sad face*. But oh well, they make an awesome team, so it's all good.
My love is like a candle. Carry me with you and I’ll light your path. Forget me and I’ll burn your fucking house down. —T-SHIRT
The other fun part of this series is always the cool and funny (even sometimes true) memes and sentences that you wish you had on your T-SHIRT. I love them. They make me crack up and even when there's tension in the plot because someone wants to kill Charley and Beep again. Of course they always fail but hey, you can't say they didn't try. And that's something, right?
Anyway, the whole plot is awesome. You get two murders (or so it seems), one insane god who's up to no good, the funky Cookie, some near death from Osh (not only once, the poor fella), crazy guys with EMFing and of course lots of Charley and Reyes. Their scenes together were so cute and sexy. Oh right, there might be a second child from Reyes, but who cares about details. There always seem so unimportand.
Yeah...on the other hand, that might be a lot to take in but I loved it anyway. We get to know some crazy secrets that both Charley and Reyes have been keeping from each other and from the rest of their friends and lets just say they are HUGE!!! Also, we lose one beloved character and I'm sure gonna miss her. But I do have a feeling we'll see her again.
All in all, the continuation of this series is what I'm used from Darynda and she definitely did not let me down with this story. If anything, now I'm even more curious what's in story for the next chapter in Charley and Reyes's lives. Can't wait for the next book!!!
Safety:
Man, I just love this series! I can't get enough of it! Mystery + action + hilarious scenes + badass characters, what's not to love, right? I know some say that the plot is always the same with Charley solving crimes but she's a private investigator so...it's kinda her job, people! I love that in each book we get that and more. Sure, crime solving is fun but the best part is for sure seeing more of Reyes, at least that's how it's for me. He's just so perfect and damn Charley for snatching him up before I could *sad face*. But oh well, they make an awesome team, so it's all good.
My love is like a candle. Carry me with you and I’ll light your path. Forget me and I’ll burn your fucking house down. —T-SHIRT
The other fun part of this series is always the cool and funny (even sometimes true) memes and sentences that you wish you had on your T-SHIRT. I love them. They make me crack up and even when there's tension in the plot because someone wants to kill Charley and Beep again. Of course they always fail but hey, you can't say they didn't try. And that's something, right?
Anyway, the whole plot is awesome. You get two murders (or so it seems), one insane god who's up to no good, the funky Cookie, some near death from Osh (not only once, the poor fella), crazy guys with EMFing and of course lots of Charley and Reyes. Their scenes together were so cute and sexy. Oh right, there might be a second child from Reyes, but who cares about details. There always seem so unimportand.
Yeah...on the other hand, that might be a lot to take in but I loved it anyway. We get to know some crazy secrets that both Charley and Reyes have been keeping from each other and from the rest of their friends and lets just say they are HUGE!!! Also, we lose one beloved character and I'm sure gonna miss her. But I do have a feeling we'll see her again.
All in all, the continuation of this series is what I'm used from Darynda and she definitely did not let me down with this story. If anything, now I'm even more curious what's in story for the next chapter in Charley and Reyes's lives. Can't wait for the next book!!!
Safety:
July 4, 2016
OH GOD! Reyes is the ultimate book boyfriend. I can't think of anyone more extraordinary than him. He loves Charlie so much, he adores her and his feelings grow stronger book after book. He's so amazing, I wanna cry.
"What other secrets are you hiding behind those sparkling eyes?”
He grinned. “You have my heart. That’s where I hide all my secrets.”
“Then I guess I don’t have the key.”
“Are you kidding? You forged the key."
This book was soo awesome, like every other Charlie Davidson book. Full of feelings and awesomeness. The books are more captivating as the series progresses. I wish it never ends. I love Charlie so much. She is a remarkable heroine, so funny(I love the memes and quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They're so entertaining). She always makes me laugh and sometimes she makes me sob. I love everything about her, she's never boring and her heart is soo big. There were many secrets revealed in this one and so many more things to be solved. I can't wait for the next book.
I love EVERY character in this series. They're all so magnificent, even the anti-heroes. I want to know everyone's story.
I love so much Darynda's writing style. It's so enticing. After I start a book and head for the end, that's the moment I wish there was more to read.
And Reyes? Why isn't he real??!! This is so unfair. Someone like him should have been real. His love for Charlie is so powerful, that reaches to you through the pages. I don't know how the author makes me doubt him sometimes, but I always end up adoring him more and more. HE IS MY FAVORITE MALE CHARACTER ever!
"What other secrets are you hiding behind those sparkling eyes?”
He grinned. “You have my heart. That’s where I hide all my secrets.”
“Then I guess I don’t have the key.”
“Are you kidding? You forged the key."
This book was soo awesome, like every other Charlie Davidson book. Full of feelings and awesomeness. The books are more captivating as the series progresses. I wish it never ends. I love Charlie so much. She is a remarkable heroine, so funny(I love the memes and quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They're so entertaining). She always makes me laugh and sometimes she makes me sob. I love everything about her, she's never boring and her heart is soo big. There were many secrets revealed in this one and so many more things to be solved. I can't wait for the next book.
I love EVERY character in this series. They're all so magnificent, even the anti-heroes. I want to know everyone's story.
I love so much Darynda's writing style. It's so enticing. After I start a book and head for the end, that's the moment I wish there was more to read.
And Reyes? Why isn't he real??!! This is so unfair. Someone like him should have been real. His love for Charlie is so powerful, that reaches to you through the pages. I don't know how the author makes me doubt him sometimes, but I always end up adoring him more and more. HE IS MY FAVORITE MALE CHARACTER ever!
June 6, 2016
Ok I've thought over night about this review and I will make an attempt to get my thoughts out and on paper. You see my problem is I really like this series but I don't always love it, if you get my meaning. Charley and Reyes seem to have gone through so much and if you haven't read previous books then please don't read further as spoilers are most definitely coming here!
Ok first up we mix a grim reaper with the son of Satan and if that wasn't twisted enough the author throws in demons (which OK yes son of Satan ), ghosts and again that makes sense as it is kind of what Charley's mission on Earth is but then it gets so tangled with Gods making their presence felt. I'm down with Jehovah and his angels, I'm almost holding my own as those from other dimensions feature ( heavily!) but what has happened to Charley and Reyes child ? Eek I don't honestly think I could function! Yet there's our intrepid duo going about their everyday lives and Charley has a new case , Reyes carries on being the best chef in town and yet the cracks in their relationship just keep getting wider and wider.
Reyes is well Reyes, he is always a cool customer and in comparison Charley feels juvenile and I freely admit I adore her wit but there are moments I want to shake her. Not only is Charley terrified for her missing child but her feelings for Reyes and the secrets she hides from him are surely going to need marriage guidance or counselling at the very least. Reyes is sex on legs, the reader knows this and yet Charley constantly reminds us to the point where I question is it love or obsession? There's just so much crammed in here and as usual the supporting characters add greatly but it's the tough choices that Charley makes that kept me glued to the page.
So ok this book answers many of my questions and yet it's a bittersweet ending . I'm not exactly sure what the author intends next but I sincerely hope that we get a lot more Reyes as it felt a little uneven at times. Yes I understand that exploring Charley's fears and paranoia added to the storyline but secrets between a couple as powerful as this two is clearly a recipe for disaster . Read this series from the beginning and follow the ups and downs of this couple and hold on tight because it's not over yet!
I was gifted a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Ok first up we mix a grim reaper with the son of Satan and if that wasn't twisted enough the author throws in demons (which OK yes son of Satan ), ghosts and again that makes sense as it is kind of what Charley's mission on Earth is but then it gets so tangled with Gods making their presence felt. I'm down with Jehovah and his angels, I'm almost holding my own as those from other dimensions feature ( heavily!) but what has happened to Charley and Reyes child ? Eek I don't honestly think I could function! Yet there's our intrepid duo going about their everyday lives and Charley has a new case , Reyes carries on being the best chef in town and yet the cracks in their relationship just keep getting wider and wider.
Reyes is well Reyes, he is always a cool customer and in comparison Charley feels juvenile and I freely admit I adore her wit but there are moments I want to shake her. Not only is Charley terrified for her missing child but her feelings for Reyes and the secrets she hides from him are surely going to need marriage guidance or counselling at the very least. Reyes is sex on legs, the reader knows this and yet Charley constantly reminds us to the point where I question is it love or obsession? There's just so much crammed in here and as usual the supporting characters add greatly but it's the tough choices that Charley makes that kept me glued to the page.
So ok this book answers many of my questions and yet it's a bittersweet ending . I'm not exactly sure what the author intends next but I sincerely hope that we get a lot more Reyes as it felt a little uneven at times. Yes I understand that exploring Charley's fears and paranoia added to the storyline but secrets between a couple as powerful as this two is clearly a recipe for disaster . Read this series from the beginning and follow the ups and downs of this couple and hold on tight because it's not over yet!
I was gifted a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 19, 2016
Received from: St. Martin's Press
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Why this book?
I'm obsessed with this series
What I thought
Like I said i'm obsessed with this series so when I saw this on Netgalley I squealed like a crazy woman; and I was not disappointed. Charley,Charley,Charley Have I mentioned how much I love you? Of course I have like a million times! This book was hilarious as ever and I can't get enough of Charley and her craziness and I just love Reyes and Cookie too. Darynda Jones is a genius! This book had me laughing,sighing,squealing and even raging a little bit! Just got to mention one thing some parts gave me some weird feelings hopefully that doesn't mean anything. overall an amazing addition to a wonderful series!
Received Via: NetGalley.com
THE REVIEW
Why this book?
I'm obsessed with this series
What I thought
Like I said i'm obsessed with this series so when I saw this on Netgalley I squealed like a crazy woman; and I was not disappointed. Charley,Charley,Charley Have I mentioned how much I love you? Of course I have like a million times! This book was hilarious as ever and I can't get enough of Charley and her craziness and I just love Reyes and Cookie too. Darynda Jones is a genius! This book had me laughing,sighing,squealing and even raging a little bit! Just got to mention one thing some parts gave me some weird feelings hopefully that doesn't mean anything. overall an amazing addition to a wonderful series!
July 26, 2016
I'm not a ride-or-die kind of girl. I have questions.
Where are we riding to?
Why do I have to die?
Can we get food on the way?
I love Charley. She never ceases to crack me up. But, things have really changed since the beginning of this series. We have gone from a funny story about a girl who sees ghosts and works as a P.I. to a place where there are angels, demons, hellhounds, gods from different worlds and different dimensions. And, it just keeps expanding. I'm expecting some aliens to drop down any day now just to add a little more confusion.
Aliens.. sheesh. They really don't understand personal boundaries.
So, Charley is back with her loved ones in New Mexico again and things are not going that well. She has decided that having a conversation with her husband about him being some sort of demon god is not a good idea and she would rather angst and avoid him. Okay, I guess that might be a difficult discussion. Maybe a little harder than when I have to tell my hubs that I spent $200. on funny t-shirts that will offend everyone when we go out in public. But, we all have to act like grown-ups in marriage. Well, except for the wearing of offensive t-shirts, of course.
I still don't get why he won't wear this one. We could totally use the $20..
This book has got its usual Charley humor and a lot of action. The only reason I deducted a star is because I feel like there is an overall sadness in the series since Beep was born. It's hard to feel like Charley is our happy-go-lucky girl anymore when she just had a baby and that baby is not with her. And, it makes me sad. I don't like being sad. If I wanted to be sad I would own a scale. But I don't.
Where are we riding to?
Why do I have to die?
Can we get food on the way?
I love Charley. She never ceases to crack me up. But, things have really changed since the beginning of this series. We have gone from a funny story about a girl who sees ghosts and works as a P.I. to a place where there are angels, demons, hellhounds, gods from different worlds and different dimensions. And, it just keeps expanding. I'm expecting some aliens to drop down any day now just to add a little more confusion.
Aliens.. sheesh. They really don't understand personal boundaries.
So, Charley is back with her loved ones in New Mexico again and things are not going that well. She has decided that having a conversation with her husband about him being some sort of demon god is not a good idea and she would rather angst and avoid him. Okay, I guess that might be a difficult discussion. Maybe a little harder than when I have to tell my hubs that I spent $200. on funny t-shirts that will offend everyone when we go out in public. But, we all have to act like grown-ups in marriage. Well, except for the wearing of offensive t-shirts, of course.
I still don't get why he won't wear this one. We could totally use the $20..
This book has got its usual Charley humor and a lot of action. The only reason I deducted a star is because I feel like there is an overall sadness in the series since Beep was born. It's hard to feel like Charley is our happy-go-lucky girl anymore when she just had a baby and that baby is not with her. And, it makes me sad. I don't like being sad. If I wanted to be sad I would own a scale. But I don't.
October 19, 2022
Book Blog | Bookstagram
“I’m married to a billionaire, like in all those books I read where the super rich guy falls in love with the poor chick who may not have much in the way of money but is wealthy in vivacity and sprightliness, and is really into bondage?”
What is there to say about this series that I haven't said nine previous times?
It really feels like all things Charley came together in a very purposeful way after a few less impressive instalments in books 7, 8 and kind of 9, too. This was classic Charley, but elevated.
There are P.I. cases, an ass-load of jokes and charm, plenty of ghosties that are just there for the boos, as well as all those relationships that bring the love in this book to life.
That said, I don't think the author did a very good job depicting a mother who had just given up her newborn baby. There was a strange lack of emotion when it came to Charley's vibe and the absence of Beep. Charley didn't need to be walking around depressed and despondent, but there was a very obvious lack of grieving. Charley was "on" all the time and never really took a moment for downtime to reflect on some more tender, human emotions.
Other than that, there was a whole lot of story progression. From the god-glass to the revelations about Uncle Bob, and Reyes' time in a godly prison, to the load of money that Reyes has been hiding from Charley.
Sure, the world is expanding to supernatural heights I definitely wasn't expecting when I first started this series about a P.I./Reaper, but I can't complain. With only three books left, we're faced with gods and demons, hell hounds and a magic baby that is supposed to kill the devil with its little fat baby fists or something like that.
Again, the only thing about this series that I don't like is Reyes.
This book did nothing but convince me that he and Charley need some serious couple's therapy. Their marriage is 100% ridiculous. They are not adults growing together as a team, but teenagers with raging libidos who are still living separate lives once they pull their pants up. I spent the majority of my reading time wanting to punch both of them in the throat whenever they had an opportunity to share a secret but instead chose to go it alone and let things fester.
If my husband and I had the kind of communication issues these two have, we'd be divorced. But we're not. Instead, we go to Costco every Sunday.
They're childish little shitheads, and no amount of Twister sex games or face-sitting can overcome the lack of emotional connection when your balls are hitting the toilet water, you need a blue pill to get things going and you can't bend over without groaning because of your ever-present back pain.
Give me more Cookie, less Reyes and things would be fine.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | 4.5 stars rounded down
“I’m married to a billionaire, like in all those books I read where the super rich guy falls in love with the poor chick who may not have much in the way of money but is wealthy in vivacity and sprightliness, and is really into bondage?”
What is there to say about this series that I haven't said nine previous times?
It really feels like all things Charley came together in a very purposeful way after a few less impressive instalments in books 7, 8 and kind of 9, too. This was classic Charley, but elevated.
There are P.I. cases, an ass-load of jokes and charm, plenty of ghosties that are just there for the boos, as well as all those relationships that bring the love in this book to life.
That said, I don't think the author did a very good job depicting a mother who had just given up her newborn baby. There was a strange lack of emotion when it came to Charley's vibe and the absence of Beep. Charley didn't need to be walking around depressed and despondent, but there was a very obvious lack of grieving. Charley was "on" all the time and never really took a moment for downtime to reflect on some more tender, human emotions.
Other than that, there was a whole lot of story progression. From the god-glass to the revelations about Uncle Bob, and Reyes' time in a godly prison, to the load of money that Reyes has been hiding from Charley.
Sure, the world is expanding to supernatural heights I definitely wasn't expecting when I first started this series about a P.I./Reaper, but I can't complain. With only three books left, we're faced with gods and demons, hell hounds and a magic baby that is supposed to kill the devil with its little fat baby fists or something like that.
Again, the only thing about this series that I don't like is Reyes.
This book did nothing but convince me that he and Charley need some serious couple's therapy. Their marriage is 100% ridiculous. They are not adults growing together as a team, but teenagers with raging libidos who are still living separate lives once they pull their pants up. I spent the majority of my reading time wanting to punch both of them in the throat whenever they had an opportunity to share a secret but instead chose to go it alone and let things fester.
If my husband and I had the kind of communication issues these two have, we'd be divorced. But we're not. Instead, we go to Costco every Sunday.
They're childish little shitheads, and no amount of Twister sex games or face-sitting can overcome the lack of emotional connection when your balls are hitting the toilet water, you need a blue pill to get things going and you can't bend over without groaning because of your ever-present back pain.
Give me more Cookie, less Reyes and things would be fine.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ | 4.5 stars rounded down
June 30, 2019
Ok, so after a few books where things were *really* different, this book is starting to feel like things are getting back to normal.
There's a bit of transition going on as everyone adjusts to new roles and dynamics, but I'm happy to feel like things are getting back to the old vibe. Yay!
There's a bit of transition going on as everyone adjusts to new roles and dynamics, but I'm happy to feel like things are getting back to the old vibe. Yay!
July 16, 2016
4 - 4.5 ★'s
Charley's back in town and back to business but...there's been a few changes. Reyes has been busy to say the least. Unfortunately, things are a little uneasy between the two of them and as usual, Charley starts grasping straws.
It might just be me but even though Charley still acts like she has ADD, she seemed more focus and she was able to figure things out quicker. It certainly helps that she's more in control of her powers and finding out what else she is capable of.
All things "Beep" still kill me but that one scene was...priceless. ~sigh~ I'm keeping my fingers crossed for something more!
And thank goodness for Cookie and her Twister game or who knows where Charley and Reyes would be. If only things were that simple but thankfully they were able to come ~somewhat~ clean and get back on track.
And then we come to the crazy end of the book...who knew? I don't even try to guess anymore what's going to happen. Just throw everything and the kitchen sink in and there you have it. I can hardly wait for the next one and...I hope this series never ends! ;)
Charley's back in town and back to business but...there's been a few changes. Reyes has been busy to say the least. Unfortunately, things are a little uneasy between the two of them and as usual, Charley starts grasping straws.
It might just be me but even though Charley still acts like she has ADD, she seemed more focus and she was able to figure things out quicker. It certainly helps that she's more in control of her powers and finding out what else she is capable of.
All things "Beep" still kill me but that one scene was...priceless. ~sigh~ I'm keeping my fingers crossed for something more!
And thank goodness for Cookie and her Twister game or who knows where Charley and Reyes would be. If only things were that simple but thankfully they were able to come ~somewhat~ clean and get back on track.
And then we come to the crazy end of the book...who knew? I don't even try to guess anymore what's going to happen. Just throw everything and the kitchen sink in and there you have it. I can hardly wait for the next one and...I hope this series never ends! ;)
March 2, 2023
2nd Read and a Revised review: So I won the paperback a year ago with the Goodreads Giveaways. When I read this book, I had not read any of the previous books in the series. I loved it and spent the last year buying up the remainder of the books so that I could go back and start at book one. That's what I'm doing now. I just read this for the 2nd time and I'm changing my rating from 4 to 5 stars. This book was so much more after knowing all that happened before. This series really has been pretty epic and I can't wait to finish out the rest of the books.
Here's what happens in book 10:
-Charley was hired to prove a man's innocence after being accused of murdering his girlfriend
-She found a homeless 12 year old girl who claims the orphanage she stays at is cursed and kills the kids there.
-Reyes is hiding something from Charley but she is hiding something from him as well.
-A video is released of her helping a possessed girl when she was in the Peace Corps and she must deal with the aftermath.
-last but not least, more is revealed in the supernatural war to come.
On to book 11....
Here's what happens in book 10:
-Charley was hired to prove a man's innocence after being accused of murdering his girlfriend
-She found a homeless 12 year old girl who claims the orphanage she stays at is cursed and kills the kids there.
-Reyes is hiding something from Charley but she is hiding something from him as well.
-A video is released of her helping a possessed girl when she was in the Peace Corps and she must deal with the aftermath.
-last but not least, more is revealed in the supernatural war to come.
On to book 11....
June 28, 2016
Let me warn you before you open the book. This 10th book in the series will pick you up throw you smack dab against the wall, your lust will ignite into black flames, you'll hover in denial-ville, and you'll beg for more. Yes, once again, Ms. Jones, has feed her Charlie Davidson addicts well, 5 star meal ! I am still starving, and want more.
What a ride. I was left with drool dripping down my chin after those last few chapters finished with me. The book was an edge of the knife ride from the first chapter. Charlie, has learned so much, absorbed too many truthes ? She is filled with doubts, questions and hard choices. Did I say hard choices ? Just when you think she is doing the hard thing, it gets worse. She must do something so hard, so heartbreaking I nearly ripped open the tissue box grabbing for more. I have goosebumps on my arms now just reliving the pages.
The book is very Charlie centered. She had just ascended to something beyond easy acceptance in the last book. She has a lot of finding herself to do. Reyes, Cookie and the gang are there and fantastic as usual. There is the hottest kiss scene, in my humble opinion, happening at the dinner, knock it out of the universe hot. My glasses are still steamed up. There are some HUGE revelations about Reyes. That's all I'm saying about that.
Loved it, LOVED IT !
What a ride. I was left with drool dripping down my chin after those last few chapters finished with me. The book was an edge of the knife ride from the first chapter. Charlie, has learned so much, absorbed too many truthes ? She is filled with doubts, questions and hard choices. Did I say hard choices ? Just when you think she is doing the hard thing, it gets worse. She must do something so hard, so heartbreaking I nearly ripped open the tissue box grabbing for more. I have goosebumps on my arms now just reliving the pages.
The book is very Charlie centered. She had just ascended to something beyond easy acceptance in the last book. She has a lot of finding herself to do. Reyes, Cookie and the gang are there and fantastic as usual. There is the hottest kiss scene, in my humble opinion, happening at the dinner, knock it out of the universe hot. My glasses are still steamed up. There are some HUGE revelations about Reyes. That's all I'm saying about that.
Loved it, LOVED IT !
Read
November 18, 20214.5 Stars! So much better than the previous one. Damn the backstory of Reyes and Charley keep interesting and interesting in every book I read as much as their relationship in the previous life
Universe? Dimension? or god knowwww whatever!
A lot of questions were answered which I'm glad. Knowing how uber-evil like Reyaziel love his *Dutch* is just oh so romantic and interesting! Ok I say it again. hahaha
I LOVE Osh! and I expect to know more of Osh's backstory, hope it will be very interesting like Reyes!
A lot of questions were answered which I'm glad. Knowing how uber-evil like Reyaziel love his *Dutch* is just oh so romantic and interesting! Ok I say it again. hahaha
I LOVE Osh! and I expect to know more of Osh's backstory, hope it will be very interesting like Reyes!
June 11, 2016
I hate it when mommy and daddy fight. It’s been a few weeks since Charley and the gang have returned home and something just doesn’t feel right between Charley and Reyes. I gotta say… Yes, Charley is still a child trapped in a woman’s body so to speak, but there is a fragility to her that is beginning to show itself. The events with Beep in the last two books have really began to take a toll. Laughter is the main emotion I have when reading a Charley Davidson book, however I felt a melancholy sadness and shed some tears this time around.
Don’t get me wrong – the uproariously funny antics are still in full affect. Nothing like a well-placed zinger here and there to lighten the mood, and I would be remised it I didn’t say that when mommy and daddy FINALLY get their shiz together it’s explosive. Who knew Reyes was into a little kink?!
The ending? OMG!! The last 25% is mesmerizing. So much action and so many revelations that my head was spinning. Had to pause and re-read a few things just to be able to soak it all in.
Bottom line: Reyes fans will rejoice, Charley fans will see some character development, and the supporting cast of characters all get some prime time to shine. I can’t wait for more!
*ARC provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
Top Pick for Summer 2016
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Don’t get me wrong – the uproariously funny antics are still in full affect. Nothing like a well-placed zinger here and there to lighten the mood, and I would be remised it I didn’t say that when mommy and daddy FINALLY get their shiz together it’s explosive. Who knew Reyes was into a little kink?!
The ending? OMG!! The last 25% is mesmerizing. So much action and so many revelations that my head was spinning. Had to pause and re-read a few things just to be able to soak it all in.
Bottom line: Reyes fans will rejoice, Charley fans will see some character development, and the supporting cast of characters all get some prime time to shine. I can’t wait for more!
*ARC provided by St. Martin's Press via Netgalley
Top Pick for Summer 2016
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August 19, 2016
It has already been established that Reyes is the epitome of AMAZING. But I need to shout something to the world: I FREAKING LOVE OSH.
June 19, 2016
It’s always so good to be back with our Charley. Even after ten books, she’s still such a breath of fresh air and she always makes us laugh. There’s been a lot of heartbreak in her life lately, but she always manages to stay upbeat and spread sarcasm wherever she turns. It could be the ADD, or maybe she’s just certifiably insane. Either way, it works for her, and it definitely works for us.
Charley is working on one of those cases only she could possibly solve. Emery Adams is dead, her fiancé accused of murder in what appears to be a slam dunk case. However, Charley is less than convinced, and so are Emery’s friends and family. The mystery takes some time to unravel, especially for an investigator with ADD, but as usual, it’s a good one. In addition, Charley stumbles upon a young homeless girl with a curse. If she is to save the girl’s life, she has to dig out the truth about a group home called Harbor House. Cookie is there to help, of course, but even then it’s a race against time.
The worlds of Charley Davidson (and there are now many) are becoming complicated. The number of her enemies and allies both is constantly growing. Now that some of her allies are guarding Beep, though, new people are showing up to fill in for them. I can never get enough of Darynda’s secondary characters, starting with Cookie and ending with Pari the tattoo artist. Fortunately, both of them get plenty of page time in this book.
I’m afraid I also have to address a pet peeve of mine, which takes up a lot of this book. For such a strong, practically destined couple, Charley and Reyes spend very little time actually talking to each other. In fact, most of their marriage is a series of ridiculous misunderstandings, made that much more difficult by Charley’s tendency to hide things and investigate behind Reyes’ back. She is the queen of wrong conclusions, and his avoidance techniques certainly don’t help. Fortunately for them, a wicked game of Twister can solve a lot, and the rest kind of takes care of itself.
Without another word, he stepped forward, and while still holding a plate in each hand, he bent down and put his mouth on mine. I raised half-closed fists to his chest and melted into him. Most of me did, anyway. Some of me melted into my panties.
I’m not sure how many more books we’ll be getting about Charley, but a spin-off is definitely in the works. All the signs are there, and while I’m sure no one could ever replace our Charley, her daughter at least deserves a chance to try.
Charley is working on one of those cases only she could possibly solve. Emery Adams is dead, her fiancé accused of murder in what appears to be a slam dunk case. However, Charley is less than convinced, and so are Emery’s friends and family. The mystery takes some time to unravel, especially for an investigator with ADD, but as usual, it’s a good one. In addition, Charley stumbles upon a young homeless girl with a curse. If she is to save the girl’s life, she has to dig out the truth about a group home called Harbor House. Cookie is there to help, of course, but even then it’s a race against time.
The worlds of Charley Davidson (and there are now many) are becoming complicated. The number of her enemies and allies both is constantly growing. Now that some of her allies are guarding Beep, though, new people are showing up to fill in for them. I can never get enough of Darynda’s secondary characters, starting with Cookie and ending with Pari the tattoo artist. Fortunately, both of them get plenty of page time in this book.
I’m afraid I also have to address a pet peeve of mine, which takes up a lot of this book. For such a strong, practically destined couple, Charley and Reyes spend very little time actually talking to each other. In fact, most of their marriage is a series of ridiculous misunderstandings, made that much more difficult by Charley’s tendency to hide things and investigate behind Reyes’ back. She is the queen of wrong conclusions, and his avoidance techniques certainly don’t help. Fortunately for them, a wicked game of Twister can solve a lot, and the rest kind of takes care of itself.
Without another word, he stepped forward, and while still holding a plate in each hand, he bent down and put his mouth on mine. I raised half-closed fists to his chest and melted into him. Most of me did, anyway. Some of me melted into my panties.
I’m not sure how many more books we’ll be getting about Charley, but a spin-off is definitely in the works. All the signs are there, and while I’m sure no one could ever replace our Charley, her daughter at least deserves a chance to try.
February 9, 2017
1.5 stars
Charley again showed how rubbish she was at being a PI. She had the subtlety of a drunk elephant and the maturity of a spoilt child. Like the way she reacted to the viral video of herself, her powers were exposed to the internet and instead of being worried about all the attention she'd receive or the nutters she'd attract she instead laughed her head off and found the whole thing hilarious. Why would she laugh about that when it could hurt her and her loved ones? As well as it potentially seriously damaging her ability to be a PI, how would she sneak around or sleuth when she was an internet sensation? So yea, idiot.
Again, Reyes kept things from Charley instead of being upfront, it was like he wanted her to jump to all sorts of mad conclusions. Then there was him being pissed off about her keeping secrets from him when he kept just as many as her, at least Charley's secret made more sense.
Had to laugh at Charley seriously thinking Reyes was pure evil and could quite easily kill her and destroy the world yet still acted all sappy and lovey dovey around him. It made no sense.
The set up was complete for Jacob/Renesmee 2.0 in peado Osh and baby Beep. It was disturbing how Charley was so cool with a centuries old man watching her baby daughter grow up, only for said man to fall in love with her. What kind of sicko would fall in love with someone who they've watched over since they were a baby? Ugh, I hate this trend of giving newly born baby girls love interests that are grown ass men. On top of that it seems to be female authors that do it. Sick, sick, sick.
Loved Cookie, Bob, Garret, and co, they were great.
Charley's sex scenes were super cringe, purely because of how incongruous it was with her juvenile narration.
Reyes being portrayed as misunderstood/tortured and sympathetic when he was once an evil god who was responsible for the deaths of millions was beyond ridiculous. Him suffering for years didn't magically redeem him of literally murdering millions.
Charley again showed how rubbish she was at being a PI. She had the subtlety of a drunk elephant and the maturity of a spoilt child. Like the way she reacted to the viral video of herself, her powers were exposed to the internet and instead of being worried about all the attention she'd receive or the nutters she'd attract she instead laughed her head off and found the whole thing hilarious. Why would she laugh about that when it could hurt her and her loved ones? As well as it potentially seriously damaging her ability to be a PI, how would she sneak around or sleuth when she was an internet sensation? So yea, idiot.
Again, Reyes kept things from Charley instead of being upfront, it was like he wanted her to jump to all sorts of mad conclusions. Then there was him being pissed off about her keeping secrets from him when he kept just as many as her, at least Charley's secret made more sense.
Had to laugh at Charley seriously thinking Reyes was pure evil and could quite easily kill her and destroy the world yet still acted all sappy and lovey dovey around him. It made no sense.
The set up was complete for Jacob/Renesmee 2.0 in peado Osh and baby Beep. It was disturbing how Charley was so cool with a centuries old man watching her baby daughter grow up, only for said man to fall in love with her. What kind of sicko would fall in love with someone who they've watched over since they were a baby? Ugh, I hate this trend of giving newly born baby girls love interests that are grown ass men. On top of that it seems to be female authors that do it. Sick, sick, sick.
Loved Cookie, Bob, Garret, and co, they were great.
Charley's sex scenes were super cringe, purely because of how incongruous it was with her juvenile narration.
Reyes being portrayed as misunderstood/tortured and sympathetic when he was once an evil god who was responsible for the deaths of millions was beyond ridiculous. Him suffering for years didn't magically redeem him of literally murdering millions.
June 22, 2016
This is one of my most favorite urban fantasy series. It has a little bit of everything and a whole lot of heat. With a cast full of characters that are every bit as memorable as they are lovable.
Charley and Reyes are one of my most favorite couples in the genre. Even though they started from a shaking past and have many issues and obstacles in their way, they always stick together and are there for one another. This book though was just a bit different.
Charley and Reyes have secrets. Oh boy do they and while normally they work through them, sometimes kicking and screaming, they pull through them and they come out stronger. It is one of the things I love most about them and this latest installment, is riddles with them.
And while that is sometimes frustrating, especially when they keep them from each other, it is also realistic to the story as they each discover more and more about themselves and the role they each have in the upcoming battles and war.
This book was very classic Charley and yet still so much more. It was explosive and revealing, and as we delve deeper and deeper into Charley and Reyes' past and their future, we get some things once and for all answered and of course, even more questions thrown out at us. We learn more and more about Charley's rag tag group of friends too and I couldn't be happier about it. This story is constantly full of twists and turns that I never see coming and it is so darn addictive.
It truly is a stand out series with memorable, stand out characters and I devour each book as it comes out and am always left wanting more and this tenth book has me even more on edge that usual. So much has happened and so much is still left to happen. I'm on edge for the next book.
Jones is a master with all the intricate details and storylines and mysteries that have been weaved together and are slowly being revealed and unraveled. If you want something original, something down right laughable and still packed full on action and mystery, and yes, a steamy melt your toes romance, this is a must read series.
*ARC copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Charley and Reyes are one of my most favorite couples in the genre. Even though they started from a shaking past and have many issues and obstacles in their way, they always stick together and are there for one another. This book though was just a bit different.
Charley and Reyes have secrets. Oh boy do they and while normally they work through them, sometimes kicking and screaming, they pull through them and they come out stronger. It is one of the things I love most about them and this latest installment, is riddles with them.
And while that is sometimes frustrating, especially when they keep them from each other, it is also realistic to the story as they each discover more and more about themselves and the role they each have in the upcoming battles and war.
This book was very classic Charley and yet still so much more. It was explosive and revealing, and as we delve deeper and deeper into Charley and Reyes' past and their future, we get some things once and for all answered and of course, even more questions thrown out at us. We learn more and more about Charley's rag tag group of friends too and I couldn't be happier about it. This story is constantly full of twists and turns that I never see coming and it is so darn addictive.
It truly is a stand out series with memorable, stand out characters and I devour each book as it comes out and am always left wanting more and this tenth book has me even more on edge that usual. So much has happened and so much is still left to happen. I'm on edge for the next book.
Jones is a master with all the intricate details and storylines and mysteries that have been weaved together and are slowly being revealed and unraveled. If you want something original, something down right laughable and still packed full on action and mystery, and yes, a steamy melt your toes romance, this is a must read series.
*ARC copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
August 13, 2020
Reyes “Sexy👅” Farrow, Amor de mi vida, futuro padre de mis hijos, alborotador de mis hormonas TE AMOOOOO!!!
😍💞❤💕
De los 10 libros que llevo leídos de la serie este es mi favorito.
Tenía un montón que no disfrutada de un libro de Charley, siempre dejo esta serie en Stand by porque no los puedo leer seguidos, siento que son demasiados densos y sobrecargan mis neuronas es por eso que a pesar de que hace más dos años empecé la serie a estas alturas a penas este leyendo este libro.
Este libro fue bastante dinámico, entretenido, no tuvo partes lentas ni aburridas salvo el principio, el balance de la sobrenatural con lo de la investigación fue muy bueno, aunque en esta ocasión me gustó más la paranormal porque involucraba a cierto personaje que tanto amo mi hermoso REYES!!
En el libro anterior me pareció too much pero ahora me parece que es PERFECTO, Reyes no podía ser menos. ¿Ya dije que lo amo?
Las cosas que más me gustaron de este libro es que:
Al fin Charley le dijo a Reyes que lo amaba, así con palabras textuales TE AMO!! Esperando 10 libros para esto.
Que al fin dejó de hacer tonterías y babosada y media.
Y los capítulos de amor entre Reyes y Charley sin ser interrumpidos siendo tan tiernos y con sus sexy times que cada vez se ponen mejor.
Y lo principal que tuvimos mucho Reyes.
Y hablando de mi otro personaje favorito o sea, Mi Osh sentí que casi no salió pero me quedé con ganas de ver su cara(obvio no puedo literalmente pero en mi imaginación sí) cuando se enteré que está predestinado para Beep o ya lo sabe? I don´t know, pero quiero ver su reacción en mi imaginación y sobre todo quiero saber más secretos sobre él.
Amé la reacción de Reyes cuando se enteró de Osh y Beep
Ya sólo me faltan dos libros para estar al corriente.🙆
De los 10 libros que llevo leídos de la serie este es mi favorito.
Tenía un montón que no disfrutada de un libro de Charley, siempre dejo esta serie en Stand by porque no los puedo leer seguidos, siento que son demasiados densos y sobrecargan mis neuronas es por eso que a pesar de que hace más dos años empecé la serie a estas alturas a penas este leyendo este libro.
Este libro fue bastante dinámico, entretenido, no tuvo partes lentas ni aburridas salvo el principio, el balance de la sobrenatural con lo de la investigación fue muy bueno, aunque en esta ocasión me gustó más la paranormal porque involucraba a cierto personaje que tanto amo mi hermoso REYES!!
En el libro anterior me pareció too much pero ahora me parece que es PERFECTO, Reyes no podía ser menos. ¿Ya dije que lo amo?
Las cosas que más me gustaron de este libro es que:
Al fin Charley le dijo a Reyes que lo amaba, así con palabras textuales TE AMO!! Esperando 10 libros para esto.
Que al fin dejó de hacer tonterías y babosada y media.
Y los capítulos de amor entre Reyes y Charley sin ser interrumpidos siendo tan tiernos y con sus sexy times que cada vez se ponen mejor.
Y lo principal que tuvimos mucho Reyes.
Y hablando de mi otro personaje favorito o sea, Mi Osh sentí que casi no salió pero me quedé con ganas de ver su cara
Amé la reacción de Reyes cuando se enteró de Osh y Beep
Ya sólo me faltan dos libros para estar al corriente.🙆
July 7, 2016
*BOOKS 1-9 TO BE DISCUSSED. DON’T READ IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED*
‘The fact that there’s a Highway to Hell and only a Stairway to Heaven says a lot about anticipated traffic numbers.’
Hallelujah, Charley’s back!! Okay, it hasn’t been that long, The Dirt on Ninth Grave just came out this past January but it sure feels like it’s been forever. The ninth installment was a bit of a filler novel, with Charley having to work to regain her memories and it took damn near the entire book to get there, but in The Curse of Tenth Grave we’re back to the good ol’ Charley that we all know and love. The stakes are even higher after Charley’s father passed through her after being a spy down in the depths of Hell to obtain vital information: the three Gods of Uzan are on Earth to kill her daughter and she just so happens to be very close with one of them.
In addition to that, Charley still manages to find time to solve a mystery (or three) for her P.I. business. This time she’s dealing with a dead woman where all evidence points to her fiancé despite Charley’s misgivings, a mystery behind kids who believe themselves to be cursed at a local group home, and the repercussions of videos resurfacing from Charley’s past involving her and an exorcism that could land her in some hot water. There’s always so much going on in a normal day with Charley Davidson – seriously it’s no wonder she drinks as much coffee as she does – but even though the stories are always told at a breakneck pace, they’re still always exhilarating rather than jumbled. The stuff she has to deal with, especially now the issues involving her daughter, life has got to be stressful yet Charley’s sarcastic sense of humor maintains.
‘I wondered if I should just tell him the truth. Of course, after finding out a Colombian drug baron wanted to eat me, I figured I should reevaluate how many people we let into our little circle.’
In addition to being able to rely on the hilarity of these stories, the steaminess also never lags. I’ll never look at a Twister game the same, that’s for damn sure. What I appreciated most in this installment is we got some insight into their actual relationship. These two never really communicate with one another and most of the time Charley is doing all kinds of crazy shit behind his back and he’s keeping secrets (okay, she’s keeping secrets too) yet they still have the hots for one another. But for the most part that seemed to be the only aspect of their relationship that made sense. In this installment, we get real heart to heart talks between them and some genuine bonding that will only make you love these two more (if you didn’t already).
This is officially the longest running series that I’ve not only continued to keep up with but still eagerly anticipate. And it’s still so freaking fantastic. I have no idea how many more installments we have, but at least there’s a possibility of a spin-off series and I’m all over that. Simply put, Darynda Jones continues to hit it out of the park with Charley and the gang. If you haven’t jumped on board these series, do yourself a favor and find out what you’ve been missing.
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
______________________________________
I am completely crazy for this series. And it's still so damn good.
DROP EVERYTHING. AHHHHHHHHHH.
‘The fact that there’s a Highway to Hell and only a Stairway to Heaven says a lot about anticipated traffic numbers.’
Hallelujah, Charley’s back!! Okay, it hasn’t been that long, The Dirt on Ninth Grave just came out this past January but it sure feels like it’s been forever. The ninth installment was a bit of a filler novel, with Charley having to work to regain her memories and it took damn near the entire book to get there, but in The Curse of Tenth Grave we’re back to the good ol’ Charley that we all know and love. The stakes are even higher after Charley’s father passed through her after being a spy down in the depths of Hell to obtain vital information: the three Gods of Uzan are on Earth to kill her daughter and she just so happens to be very close with one of them.
In addition to that, Charley still manages to find time to solve a mystery (or three) for her P.I. business. This time she’s dealing with a dead woman where all evidence points to her fiancé despite Charley’s misgivings, a mystery behind kids who believe themselves to be cursed at a local group home, and the repercussions of videos resurfacing from Charley’s past involving her and an exorcism that could land her in some hot water. There’s always so much going on in a normal day with Charley Davidson – seriously it’s no wonder she drinks as much coffee as she does – but even though the stories are always told at a breakneck pace, they’re still always exhilarating rather than jumbled. The stuff she has to deal with, especially now the issues involving her daughter, life has got to be stressful yet Charley’s sarcastic sense of humor maintains.
‘I wondered if I should just tell him the truth. Of course, after finding out a Colombian drug baron wanted to eat me, I figured I should reevaluate how many people we let into our little circle.’
In addition to being able to rely on the hilarity of these stories, the steaminess also never lags. I’ll never look at a Twister game the same, that’s for damn sure. What I appreciated most in this installment is we got some insight into their actual relationship. These two never really communicate with one another and most of the time Charley is doing all kinds of crazy shit behind his back and he’s keeping secrets (okay, she’s keeping secrets too) yet they still have the hots for one another. But for the most part that seemed to be the only aspect of their relationship that made sense. In this installment, we get real heart to heart talks between them and some genuine bonding that will only make you love these two more (if you didn’t already).
This is officially the longest running series that I’ve not only continued to keep up with but still eagerly anticipate. And it’s still so freaking fantastic. I have no idea how many more installments we have, but at least there’s a possibility of a spin-off series and I’m all over that. Simply put, Darynda Jones continues to hit it out of the park with Charley and the gang. If you haven’t jumped on board these series, do yourself a favor and find out what you’ve been missing.
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
______________________________________
I am completely crazy for this series. And it's still so damn good.
DROP EVERYTHING. AHHHHHHHHHH.
June 23, 2019
Okay, it seems the series is back on track to being awesome!
"I was ready to take on the world...until I saw something sparkly."
This line resonates with me.
"I was ready to take on the world...until I saw something sparkly."
This line resonates with me.
October 27, 2018
I love when we get answers and my mind snaps the puzzle pieces into place. The Curse of Tenth Grave does just that. So many answers! Jones reveals the significance to the names Angel writes. Total Mindgasm!
Jones does a wonderful job of refreshing our memories about the climatic events that occurred at the end of Dirt on Ninth Grave. Not that this reader needed refreshing, my jaw was still hanging open catching flies but it was lovely just the same.
Charley learned troubling things about Reyes and it is weighing heavily on her. Not to mention the separation anxiety she is facing regarding Beep. Their return has created a little distance between Reyes and Charley. I hated seeing this couple having marital trouble but between the stress they are under and those blasted prophecies, it wasn't hard to imagine.
Charley is working cases and as always, her life is crazy. She has folks stalking hers and trying to clear the name of murder suspect. In addition she is dealing with a blackmailer. Charley concerned Reyes might go nuclear has to decide whether to share information she learned with him. Jones created a great spin to this thread. I laughed when everything is revealed. Each of these threads was well done and laced with the danger, humor, and intense revelations.
Jones is a masterful storyteller and despite all that is going on I never felt overwhelmed. In fact, quite the opposite happened. The outside world slipped away and I completely lose myself in the story. Let us hope the Charley Davidson series never comes to Netflix because I would be a couch potato mindlessly sipping coffee and watching episodes for hours.
While reading Dirt on Ninth Grave I did not feel like we gained a lot of information towards the overall arc. After reading Curse of Tenth Grave I realized Jones revealed some significant information and Tenth clarified them. We have always known Reyes is the son of Satan, but in Tenth, we learn of his beginnings and life before he came to this plain. A certain promise made by Reyes to Michael has me a tad nervous. We had an intense scene that will leave readers wiping tears from their eyes.
Always the master juggler thanks to copious amounts of coffee Charley has a handle on things. Even if it feels like things are totally out of control. She is fearless and at reckless but she gets things done. She places a friend in jeopardy who plays a significant role in the future. I am curious about this friend and cannot wait to uncover their secrets.
Jones gives us plenty of romantic time despite all the nonstop action. She left me happy at least for the moment. Once again Jones fed my craving for this world, giving me all the feels from laughter to tears with a few swoons for good measure.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Jones does a wonderful job of refreshing our memories about the climatic events that occurred at the end of Dirt on Ninth Grave. Not that this reader needed refreshing, my jaw was still hanging open catching flies but it was lovely just the same.
Charley learned troubling things about Reyes and it is weighing heavily on her. Not to mention the separation anxiety she is facing regarding Beep. Their return has created a little distance between Reyes and Charley. I hated seeing this couple having marital trouble but between the stress they are under and those blasted prophecies, it wasn't hard to imagine.
Charley is working cases and as always, her life is crazy. She has folks stalking hers and trying to clear the name of murder suspect. In addition she is dealing with a blackmailer. Charley concerned Reyes might go nuclear has to decide whether to share information she learned with him. Jones created a great spin to this thread. I laughed when everything is revealed. Each of these threads was well done and laced with the danger, humor, and intense revelations.
Jones is a masterful storyteller and despite all that is going on I never felt overwhelmed. In fact, quite the opposite happened. The outside world slipped away and I completely lose myself in the story. Let us hope the Charley Davidson series never comes to Netflix because I would be a couch potato mindlessly sipping coffee and watching episodes for hours.
While reading Dirt on Ninth Grave I did not feel like we gained a lot of information towards the overall arc. After reading Curse of Tenth Grave I realized Jones revealed some significant information and Tenth clarified them. We have always known Reyes is the son of Satan, but in Tenth, we learn of his beginnings and life before he came to this plain. A certain promise made by Reyes to Michael has me a tad nervous. We had an intense scene that will leave readers wiping tears from their eyes.
Always the master juggler thanks to copious amounts of coffee Charley has a handle on things. Even if it feels like things are totally out of control. She is fearless and at reckless but she gets things done. She places a friend in jeopardy who plays a significant role in the future. I am curious about this friend and cannot wait to uncover their secrets.
Jones gives us plenty of romantic time despite all the nonstop action. She left me happy at least for the moment. Once again Jones fed my craving for this world, giving me all the feels from laughter to tears with a few swoons for good measure.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
May 15, 2019
I think I'm just over this series already. So much of it feels like filler packed around the 2% that actually deals with the larger paranormal war stuff. I wish I could say that this was an anomaly but the truth is that the last several books have been extremely thin on plot, with the author just making stuff up and doing it badly because there are never clues planted in previous books; it's just crap made up on the fly and the result is a mythology that feels cobbled together and held in place with duct tape. And since it looks like the actual big showdown with Lucifer has been punted off to Beep, it leaves me wondering what the point of this entire series has been. I'm even finding Charley herself to be more annoying than funny. I was thinking I'd at least finish the series but after finishing this installment, I'm not really feeling inclined to do so anymore.
July 23, 2016
Keep them coming! Best series out there
May 31, 2020
This novel may be my favorite of the whole bunch.
Of course, that might just be because of the whole New York purgatory bit. Am I the only one who thinks that getting out of there, getting back to Albuquerque felt SO RIGHT?
It was okay, but this one was awesome. Now we've unlocked some OP powers, some really fantastical and magical booty-calls, and we get many cool new reveals of cosmic proportions. Even the temporary plot feels more interesting when propped up against the big stuff.
:) Okay, I'm a big fan of Arc-plots. :) I live for big setups and better payoffs. This one has both.
And it's quirky. Win/win. :)
Of course, that might just be because of the whole New York purgatory bit. Am I the only one who thinks that getting out of there, getting back to Albuquerque felt SO RIGHT?
It was okay, but this one was awesome. Now we've unlocked some OP powers, some really fantastical and magical booty-calls, and we get many cool new reveals of cosmic proportions. Even the temporary plot feels more interesting when propped up against the big stuff.
:) Okay, I'm a big fan of Arc-plots. :) I live for big setups and better payoffs. This one has both.
And it's quirky. Win/win. :)
July 6, 2017
Alright. So the last review I wrote for this was actually meant for book 9. Too many graves in the title. How was I to tell? Suffice it to say that I read it now... and the review from the last one pretty much stands for this one as well. They could cut the sex out of this book entirely and I'd miss not a single thing. And honestly, I kinda feel the same way about Reyes. Since sex is his entire purpose in these books, anyway. I'm not some stick-in-the-mud conservative hoity-toity who only allows for sex to be mentioned in reference to which reproductive organs a person is sporting. I think sex can be a lovely edition to a story. However, this author doesn't write sex scenes like that. She just throws them in with no regard to plot and then makes the analogies involved RIDICULOUS. I honestly think the "I wet my panties" line has been said at least 20 times so far and I'm not even 75% through with this book! I get it, he is hot. He makes you horny. STOP MENTIONING IT EVERY TIME HE WALKS INTO THE ROOM AND GET ON WITH THE ACTUAL PLOT FOR FUCK'S SAKE!!!!!!!!
Ok... sorry about that. I'm just at the tipping point of not being able to continue with this series. The good parts have stopped outweighing the bad. I want to know what happens, but I just don't think it'll be worth it to wade thru the rest of the bullshit.
My original post...
BOOK 9 REVIEW BECAUSE LIFE IS HARD:
The reason I keep coming back to the Charley Davidson story has about 30% to do with the humor, 69% to do with the fantasy element, and 1% to do with steamy romance. Sometimes it's nice to indulge in a little smut adventuring, but by the tenth book I'm getting really damn tired of reading about Reyes' pulsing muscles and sexy jaw-line. I get it. The dude is hot. It seems to be the only thing holding Charley and Reyes together. I don't think they had one single conversation that wasn't about sex. I wish the author would cut out about 95% of the sex/sexy talk and add more to the plot development and fantasy lore. Because the mystery of who she is and who all the people in her life are turning out to be is really interesting, dang it! And honestly, Reyes seems about as attractive as a show dog with how she describes him. Can I get a personality up in this beezey (aka book)?! I'm not saying I don't want any of the smut element, but with this last installment that is essentially all I was getting.
The parts that I love, I LOVE, so I'm not giving up, but I have my fingers crossed for the next one. Please, oh please, switch the focus onto the parts with substance...
Ok... sorry about that. I'm just at the tipping point of not being able to continue with this series. The good parts have stopped outweighing the bad. I want to know what happens, but I just don't think it'll be worth it to wade thru the rest of the bullshit.
My original post...
BOOK 9 REVIEW BECAUSE LIFE IS HARD:
The reason I keep coming back to the Charley Davidson story has about 30% to do with the humor, 69% to do with the fantasy element, and 1% to do with steamy romance. Sometimes it's nice to indulge in a little smut adventuring, but by the tenth book I'm getting really damn tired of reading about Reyes' pulsing muscles and sexy jaw-line. I get it. The dude is hot. It seems to be the only thing holding Charley and Reyes together. I don't think they had one single conversation that wasn't about sex. I wish the author would cut out about 95% of the sex/sexy talk and add more to the plot development and fantasy lore. Because the mystery of who she is and who all the people in her life are turning out to be is really interesting, dang it! And honestly, Reyes seems about as attractive as a show dog with how she describes him. Can I get a personality up in this beezey (aka book)?! I'm not saying I don't want any of the smut element, but with this last installment that is essentially all I was getting.
The parts that I love, I LOVE, so I'm not giving up, but I have my fingers crossed for the next one. Please, oh please, switch the focus onto the parts with substance...
March 16, 2018
¡Lo logre!!!!!!!
Logre terminar de leer toda la serie antes de que salga el libro número 11.
Este libro fue mejor que el anterior, pero igual se me hizo tedioso y siento que la autora ya extendió de más la historia.
Logre terminar de leer toda la serie antes de que salga el libro número 11.
Este libro fue mejor que el anterior, pero igual se me hizo tedioso y siento que la autora ya extendió de más la historia.
June 30, 2016
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads
This series took a bit of a detour with the last installment, but Charley is back in this thick of things in THE CURSE OF THE TENTH GRAVE. Her stint in amnesialand did serve a purpose which became clear in this latest book as did a number of other elements that have been kicking around in the background. Par for the course, there’s a murder to solve, a curse to unravel, a blackmailer to thwart, and a world to save.
Davidson begins to set a plan into motion using all of the knowledge she’s gained which unfortunately also caused some strife in her relationship with Reyes, but it turns out that he’s been keeping just as many secrets from her as she has from him. They talk it out over a heated game of Twister, reconnect with LOTS of sex, and eventually end up on the same page which considering the elephant in the room was pretty remarkable.
The Lyle Fiske case was another mind buster that could only be solved by the world’s most unconventional PI. Charley accomplishes this seemingly impossible feat with two sets of ghost hunters stalking her every move thanks to a viral video while also saving a homeless girl who’s slated to be Harbor House’s tenth victim, and humbling Nick the Pri—Parker with a mind blowing revelation. All in a day’s work for this grim reaper!
This volume wasn’t without its heartbreak, following the loss of a key figure in Davidson’s life, it’s now Reyes’ turn to suffer a similar blow. The emotional torture doesn’t stop there either because another pivotal secondary character’s fate is on the chopping block, and the bad news just keeps on coming when the author announces that this person is destined to burn in the fiery pits of Hell. Euum, say WHAAAT!?
THE CURSE OF THE TENTH GRAVE was classic Darynda Jones with a dollop of oh-no-you-didn’t!
This series took a bit of a detour with the last installment, but Charley is back in this thick of things in THE CURSE OF THE TENTH GRAVE. Her stint in amnesialand did serve a purpose which became clear in this latest book as did a number of other elements that have been kicking around in the background. Par for the course, there’s a murder to solve, a curse to unravel, a blackmailer to thwart, and a world to save.
Davidson begins to set a plan into motion using all of the knowledge she’s gained which unfortunately also caused some strife in her relationship with Reyes, but it turns out that he’s been keeping just as many secrets from her as she has from him. They talk it out over a heated game of Twister, reconnect with LOTS of sex, and eventually end up on the same page which considering the elephant in the room was pretty remarkable.
The Lyle Fiske case was another mind buster that could only be solved by the world’s most unconventional PI. Charley accomplishes this seemingly impossible feat with two sets of ghost hunters stalking her every move thanks to a viral video while also saving a homeless girl who’s slated to be Harbor House’s tenth victim, and humbling Nick the Pri—Parker with a mind blowing revelation. All in a day’s work for this grim reaper!
This volume wasn’t without its heartbreak, following the loss of a key figure in Davidson’s life, it’s now Reyes’ turn to suffer a similar blow. The emotional torture doesn’t stop there either because another pivotal secondary character’s fate is on the chopping block, and the bad news just keeps on coming when the author announces that this person is destined to burn in the fiery pits of Hell. Euum, say WHAAAT!?
THE CURSE OF THE TENTH GRAVE was classic Darynda Jones with a dollop of oh-no-you-didn’t!
August 9, 2016
I can write an early review since...well the same things that happened before happened again.
Charley is over her amnesia. She knows things about Reyes...and will learn more. Seriously, it just keeps on getting more and more confusing. Also I would like to see them use those powers they have. Wouldn't that be cool. They are supposedly so powerful..
I lost the thread. Right. Charley is on a case. But there are bigger things happening too, obviously. Everyone is after Beep. And that still breaks me, why oh why? Why can't they all be together!
Reyes is still mmmmm droolworthy, but the book needed more Reyes. I get that Charley is funny, but hey, more Reyes can never go wrong ;)
So yes the usual. A mystery. Some smexy time. A battle between Good and Evil. Blurry lines between Good and Evil. What is good and Evil. The whole Reyes and Charley meant to be becoming one big awww, so meant to be!
But, I do feel like this series has started to stagnate. Before they got better and better, now they are sliding back again. Even if it is good, there is nothing new. They sell because they sell, and we get more. But..an ending would be good.
Charley is over her amnesia. She knows things about Reyes...and will learn more. Seriously, it just keeps on getting more and more confusing. Also I would like to see them use those powers they have. Wouldn't that be cool. They are supposedly so powerful..
I lost the thread. Right. Charley is on a case. But there are bigger things happening too, obviously. Everyone is after Beep. And that still breaks me, why oh why? Why can't they all be together!
Reyes is still mmmmm droolworthy, but the book needed more Reyes. I get that Charley is funny, but hey, more Reyes can never go wrong ;)
So yes the usual. A mystery. Some smexy time. A battle between Good and Evil. Blurry lines between Good and Evil. What is good and Evil. The whole Reyes and Charley meant to be becoming one big awww, so meant to be!
But, I do feel like this series has started to stagnate. Before they got better and better, now they are sliding back again. Even if it is good, there is nothing new. They sell because they sell, and we get more. But..an ending would be good.
July 7, 2016
Really liked this installment and that most if not all our questions are answered. Loved this book far more than the previous installment. It will be interesting to see where this series goes.
September 21, 2023
Initial Thoughts
This was another great installment! Charley has her plate full once again and I had a great time watching her work things out. She knows something about her spouse that may change things, plus there is a teenage girl that needs her help, not to mention the person that has been charged with murder. This installment had all of the action and humor that I have come to expect from the series. There were some revelations at the end that have left me very eager to pick up the next installment. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a wonderful job with the story.
Book source: Library
This was another great installment! Charley has her plate full once again and I had a great time watching her work things out. She knows something about her spouse that may change things, plus there is a teenage girl that needs her help, not to mention the person that has been charged with murder. This installment had all of the action and humor that I have come to expect from the series. There were some revelations at the end that have left me very eager to pick up the next installment. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a wonderful job with the story.
Book source: Library
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