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Charley Davidson #7
Seventh Grave and No Body
Twelve. Twelve of the deadliest beasts ever forged in the fires of hell have escaped onto our plane, and they want nothing more than to rip out the jugular of Charley Davidson and serve her lifeless, mangled body to Satan for dinner. So there’s that. But Charley has more on her plate than a mob of testy hellhounds. For one thing, her father has disappeared, and the more she retraces his last steps, the more she learns he was conducting an investigation of his own, one that has Charley questioning everything she’s ever known about him. Add to that an ex-BFF who is haunting her night and day, a rash of suicides that has authorities baffled, and a drop-dead sexy fiancé who has attracted the attentions of a local celebrity, and Charley is not having the best week of her life. But all of that combined barely scratches the surface of her problems. Recent developments—and a few distressing prophesies—have forced her to become a responsible adult. Exactly the kind of adult she’s never aspired to be. To conquer such a monumental task, she’s decided to start small. Really small. She gets a pet. But how can she save the world against the forces of evil when she can’t even keep a goldfish alive?
A tad north of hell, a hop, skip, and a jump past the realm of eternity, is a little place called Earth, and Charley Davidson, grim reaper extraordinaire, is determined to do everything in her power to protect it.
We’re doomed.
A tad north of hell, a hop, skip, and a jump past the realm of eternity, is a little place called Earth, and Charley Davidson, grim reaper extraordinaire, is determined to do everything in her power to protect it.
We’re doomed.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2014
513 people are currently reading
10107 people want to read
About the author
Darynda Jones
59 books16.6k followersNYTimes and USA Today Bestselling Author Darynda Jones has won numerous awards for her work, including a prestigious RITA, a Golden Heart, and a Daphne du Maurier, and her books have been translated into 17 languages. As a born storyteller, Darynda grew up spinning tales of dashing damsels and heroes in distress for any unfortunate soul who happened by, certain they went away the better for it. She penned the international bestselling Charley Davidson series and is currently working on several beloved projects, most notably the Sunshine Vicram Mystery Series with St. Martin's Press and the Betwixt and Between Series of paranormal women's fiction. She lives in the Land of Enchantment, also known as New Mexico, with her husband and two beautiful sons, the Mighty, Mighty Jones Boys.
Click here to read one of the more popular short stories by Darynda called The Monster:
https://theneverneath.com/2018/02/02/...
She can be found at http://www.daryndajones.com
Click here to read one of the more popular short stories by Darynda called The Monster:
https://theneverneath.com/2018/02/02/...
She can be found at http://www.daryndajones.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,061 reviews
October 22, 2014
Spoilers
Not sure what to think of this instalment, there were parts I loathed with a burning passion and there were also parts I really enjoyed. The main thing I hated about Seventh Grave was Charley, she was beyond insufferable, I actually felt a tiny bit sorry for Reyes for having to put up with her (and I bloody hate that guy). What I loved were the side characters, the little hell-related mysteries that were going on and the Charley Davidson world in general. Also, it was quite a fast and easy read.
-I enjoyed all the parts which related to the twelve hellhounds and the prophecy, they were all action packed and interesting. I wanted more focus on that arc, it was what kept me engaged and reading.
The stalker-journalist/missing-suicide-case/investigation-of-the-week type plot didn't interest me at all. I found the whole obsessed-with-Reyes journalist quite ridiculous and irritating, it just got in the way of the hellhound/baby/prophecy arc.
-I used to love Charley, she was fun and entertaining but she's turned into an embarrassingly-immature-knob-head. At least in earlier books she didn't act like a complete doofus 24/7. In this she talked utter nonsense pretty much all the time, nobody in their twenties would be that ridiculous. I almost stopped reading when she was talking with that judge in the beginning, it made me cringe so much, she behaved like such a daft twit, it wasn't cute, it was actually quite racist.
As much as I dislike Reyes, I felt for him whenever Charley would do something reckless and idiotic, and I couldn't help but wonder what he saw in her. What did he do to deserve such an irritating fool?! She had the maturity of a bratty toddler.
-I couldn't stand pregnant Charley. She said she wanted the baby yet her actions told a different story. Instead of keeping herself out of danger, she dove right in, not caring whether or not it could harm her baby. If she really wanted her daughter then she would have been more careful about what she did. Not to mention, her daughter was prophesied to save the world, but Charley didn't care about that, she just wanted to play the hero even if it meant she could lose her baby. I'm surprised she didn't miscarry the amount of times she was attacked, thrown, manhandled and hurt.
-Charley naming everything has gotten beyond stupid, it was kind of endearing at first but it got boring a few books ago. Also, her coffee and Reyes's arse obsession was bloody annoying, I couldn't care less how much she loved coffee or Reyes's arse. I would have been fine if she said it once or twice but she kept banging on about arses and coffee, it just made her character more ridiculous.
-I've always hated the Reyes fangirling in the series, every female character swoons over him. I thought it might have calmed down in the seventh book but if anything it got worse. It was finally properly confirmed that Reyes wasn't just sexy, he was supernaturally sexy and that was why every female character got wet over him. I guess it was good to finally get an answer to the over-the-top reactions to Reyes but in a way it was worse because it means now there's a legit reason for all the silly fangirling - it won't ever end. I don't want to read how good looking and sexy Reyes is every other sentence, it's already been more than established in the first book. Repeating it constantly after so many books is pointless, it doesn't make Reyes or the story any more interesting.
-Also, Reyes's scowling, his secretiveness, his muscles and him looking at Charley through his lashes didn't make him any more interesting.
I had to roll my eyes at Charley being turned on by Reyes doing the simplest tasks like talking or walking or taking his phone out of his pocket, even his sulking turned her on. It was overkill. It was like reading the POV of an hormonal, embarrassing, pathetic schoolgirl.
-I was pissed at Reyes yet again keeping Charley in the dark and at the same time lecturing her about secrets. He was such a hypocrite. He had her followed and was spying on her, he had no right to do that, Charley should have stopped him from ever doing that again but the silly cow just got a bit huffy and basically gave him the go ahead to have her followed 24/7 for the rest of her life. Charley must secretly like being stalked and controlled.
-Reyes also could have told Charley the truth about the reporter who was sniffing around but instead he told her nothing and she and her uncle ended up in danger. If he had told her what was what, she and Ubie could have been on their guard more around the crazy reporter. Reyes's double standards and hypocrisy was a huge turn off.
-I felt like throttling Charley whenever she was reckless with the only knife that could harm demons/hellhounds. She just tossed it around and dropped it like it was nothing. What sort of twit wouldn't properly look after the only weapon which was effective against the bad guys?
-Charley brushing off her impending death and that of her unborn baby's was irritating, she kept banging on an about loopholes and prophecies as if that was enough to mean that everything would turn out fine and dandy. Why couldn't she take things seriously for once? Why didn't she fear for her daughter's life? Why did she keep putting herself in potentially dangerous situations when she knew Rocket predicted her death? Why did she care more about some case or some Reyes related rubbish than her own life and her daughter's? Her rushing off to see that gangster and go grave digging was so dumb especially when she'd already had twelve almost-invincible hellhounds attack her. It was like she wanted her and her baby to die.
-By the end of the book, I was wishing Reyes would run away with the baby once it was born, it was obvious Charley didn't give a fuck about it. But then after the last chapter which was in Reyes's POV, I was actually hoping Charley's evil stepmother would end up looking after the baby. It would probably be more loved and well looked after with her than Charley or Reyes. I really thought Reyes loved the baby but his POV clearly showed he was only interested in her because she was a weapon. He wasn't concerned with her welfare and safety, he didn't care she was a symbol of Reyes/Charley's love or that she was his own flesh and blood and first child. Nope, the only reason he was bothered about her was because she was going to destroy his dad/Satan who he hates. What parent would be happy their child would have to face the biggest evil ever?! If Reyes cared about his baby he would have been worried about her destiny and what she had to face in the future but nope, he was ecstatic that his only child had to face his all powerful-evil-maniac dad. That kid doesn't stand a chance with crappy parents like Reyes and Charley.
-Why did Charley and Reyes blurt out all their supernatural problems in front of any old person? They had demons and all sorts after them yet they blurted out information that could potentially be used against them in front of anyone and everyone. They were both so stupid.
-Why did Charley keep referring to Reyes as her affianced? Who talks like that?
-The side characters were one of the best elements of the book/series. I pretty much loved all of them (except for cheesy-cliched Osh). I loved Jessica, her interactions and bitchiness with Charley were so funny. I liked that she decided to stick around and help Rocket and co. Amber/Quentin, Ubie/Cookie and Garett/his son were great as well. I'm guessing Garrett's son will be one of the Twelve/Thirteen from the prophecy.
-Glad Charley's dad died, he was awful and nothing but a prick. No doubt, he'll still be annoying Charley and the gang even though he's dead. I am looking forward to seeing how Charley's stepmum will behave now that he's dead, I'm hoping there'll be some insight into her cruel bitchiness towards Charley.
-I'm annoyed about how the prophecy is playing out. I don't think I like that the prophecy about who destroys Satan/saves the world is about Charley's unborn daughter instead of Charley herself. The six earlier books were building up to a final battle between good/evil, but now that probably won't happen in this series because Charley's daughter will have to be born and grow up first. So unless the series skips ahead years, it won't end with the final epic showdown that was promised in earlier books. All that the series can deliver (if there's no time jumps) will be Charley/Reyes protecting their infant daughter and the final showdown that was expected won't happen. I want to see the two different Twelves battling, the thirteenth struggling with whether to side with good or evil, and the prophecy actually playing out - all of that was pretty much promised in earlier books but it most likely won't happen in this series. I really hope there's no lame spin off, I wanted the whole prophecy arc to be fully resolved in this series, I'll feel cheated if it isn't.
-There was a bit of Jacob/Renesmee vibe going on, it really did seem like Osh was romantically interested in Charley's unborn baby, it was creepy and disgusting. I hope Osh's interest in Charley's kid is to do with the fight against evil and no grooming/paedophilia will go on.
-Liked what happened with Amber, and that Quentin and co would somehow help with the prophecy. But I'm not happy that all this great build up in the series will amount to nothing since it seems unlikely there'll be a time jump to actually see how Charley's daughter and her twelve/thirteen fight the bad guys.
-It was rather ridiculous how Charley was meant to be all powerful and was able to fight hellhounds and demons yet random weak humans were able to over power and best her without difficulty. Charley can't be a super speshul all powerful snowflake able to fight hordes of demons yet also a weakling who gets hurt/almost killed by an average human. It has to be one or another, otherwise it makes no sense.
-Who sent the twelve hellhounds? Why were the Vatican following/getting information on Charley? How did they know about her in the first place? Who was that Duff guy mentioned at the end? Was he a ghost following Charley or was he the guy who took all those pictures? Who killed Charley's dad? Why didn't he just tell her? Why was Charley always conveniently interrupted whenever she was trying to find out more about herself/hell/demons? Why was Reyes so cowardly about telling Charley her real name? Why was Osh acting like such a sleaze when it came to the baby?
Although, I can't stand Charley/Reyes and I'm not a fan of the investigation-of-the-week type plot, I do pretty much love everything else about the series. The ongoing arc with the prophecy/demons is keeping me hooked, not to mention the world and secondary characters. I'm hoping the next book will cut down on Charley's 'humour', all the fangirling, Reyes's douchery, and the random/pointless investigations and instead focus on the good stuff.
Not sure what to think of this instalment, there were parts I loathed with a burning passion and there were also parts I really enjoyed. The main thing I hated about Seventh Grave was Charley, she was beyond insufferable, I actually felt a tiny bit sorry for Reyes for having to put up with her (and I bloody hate that guy). What I loved were the side characters, the little hell-related mysteries that were going on and the Charley Davidson world in general. Also, it was quite a fast and easy read.
-I enjoyed all the parts which related to the twelve hellhounds and the prophecy, they were all action packed and interesting. I wanted more focus on that arc, it was what kept me engaged and reading.
The stalker-journalist/missing-suicide-case/investigation-of-the-week type plot didn't interest me at all. I found the whole obsessed-with-Reyes journalist quite ridiculous and irritating, it just got in the way of the hellhound/baby/prophecy arc.
-I used to love Charley, she was fun and entertaining but she's turned into an embarrassingly-immature-knob-head. At least in earlier books she didn't act like a complete doofus 24/7. In this she talked utter nonsense pretty much all the time, nobody in their twenties would be that ridiculous. I almost stopped reading when she was talking with that judge in the beginning, it made me cringe so much, she behaved like such a daft twit, it wasn't cute, it was actually quite racist.
As much as I dislike Reyes, I felt for him whenever Charley would do something reckless and idiotic, and I couldn't help but wonder what he saw in her. What did he do to deserve such an irritating fool?! She had the maturity of a bratty toddler.
-I couldn't stand pregnant Charley. She said she wanted the baby yet her actions told a different story. Instead of keeping herself out of danger, she dove right in, not caring whether or not it could harm her baby. If she really wanted her daughter then she would have been more careful about what she did. Not to mention, her daughter was prophesied to save the world, but Charley didn't care about that, she just wanted to play the hero even if it meant she could lose her baby. I'm surprised she didn't miscarry the amount of times she was attacked, thrown, manhandled and hurt.
-Charley naming everything has gotten beyond stupid, it was kind of endearing at first but it got boring a few books ago. Also, her coffee and Reyes's arse obsession was bloody annoying, I couldn't care less how much she loved coffee or Reyes's arse. I would have been fine if she said it once or twice but she kept banging on about arses and coffee, it just made her character more ridiculous.
-I've always hated the Reyes fangirling in the series, every female character swoons over him. I thought it might have calmed down in the seventh book but if anything it got worse. It was finally properly confirmed that Reyes wasn't just sexy, he was supernaturally sexy and that was why every female character got wet over him. I guess it was good to finally get an answer to the over-the-top reactions to Reyes but in a way it was worse because it means now there's a legit reason for all the silly fangirling - it won't ever end. I don't want to read how good looking and sexy Reyes is every other sentence, it's already been more than established in the first book. Repeating it constantly after so many books is pointless, it doesn't make Reyes or the story any more interesting.
-Also, Reyes's scowling, his secretiveness, his muscles and him looking at Charley through his lashes didn't make him any more interesting.
I had to roll my eyes at Charley being turned on by Reyes doing the simplest tasks like talking or walking or taking his phone out of his pocket, even his sulking turned her on. It was overkill. It was like reading the POV of an hormonal, embarrassing, pathetic schoolgirl.
-I was pissed at Reyes yet again keeping Charley in the dark and at the same time lecturing her about secrets. He was such a hypocrite. He had her followed and was spying on her, he had no right to do that, Charley should have stopped him from ever doing that again but the silly cow just got a bit huffy and basically gave him the go ahead to have her followed 24/7 for the rest of her life. Charley must secretly like being stalked and controlled.
-Reyes also could have told Charley the truth about the reporter who was sniffing around but instead he told her nothing and she and her uncle ended up in danger. If he had told her what was what, she and Ubie could have been on their guard more around the crazy reporter. Reyes's double standards and hypocrisy was a huge turn off.
-I felt like throttling Charley whenever she was reckless with the only knife that could harm demons/hellhounds. She just tossed it around and dropped it like it was nothing. What sort of twit wouldn't properly look after the only weapon which was effective against the bad guys?
-Charley brushing off her impending death and that of her unborn baby's was irritating, she kept banging on an about loopholes and prophecies as if that was enough to mean that everything would turn out fine and dandy. Why couldn't she take things seriously for once? Why didn't she fear for her daughter's life? Why did she keep putting herself in potentially dangerous situations when she knew Rocket predicted her death? Why did she care more about some case or some Reyes related rubbish than her own life and her daughter's? Her rushing off to see that gangster and go grave digging was so dumb especially when she'd already had twelve almost-invincible hellhounds attack her. It was like she wanted her and her baby to die.
-By the end of the book, I was wishing Reyes would run away with the baby once it was born, it was obvious Charley didn't give a fuck about it. But then after the last chapter which was in Reyes's POV, I was actually hoping Charley's evil stepmother would end up looking after the baby. It would probably be more loved and well looked after with her than Charley or Reyes. I really thought Reyes loved the baby but his POV clearly showed he was only interested in her because she was a weapon. He wasn't concerned with her welfare and safety, he didn't care she was a symbol of Reyes/Charley's love or that she was his own flesh and blood and first child. Nope, the only reason he was bothered about her was because she was going to destroy his dad/Satan who he hates. What parent would be happy their child would have to face the biggest evil ever?! If Reyes cared about his baby he would have been worried about her destiny and what she had to face in the future but nope, he was ecstatic that his only child had to face his all powerful-evil-maniac dad. That kid doesn't stand a chance with crappy parents like Reyes and Charley.
-Why did Charley and Reyes blurt out all their supernatural problems in front of any old person? They had demons and all sorts after them yet they blurted out information that could potentially be used against them in front of anyone and everyone. They were both so stupid.
-Why did Charley keep referring to Reyes as her affianced? Who talks like that?
-The side characters were one of the best elements of the book/series. I pretty much loved all of them (except for cheesy-cliched Osh). I loved Jessica, her interactions and bitchiness with Charley were so funny. I liked that she decided to stick around and help Rocket and co. Amber/Quentin, Ubie/Cookie and Garett/his son were great as well. I'm guessing Garrett's son will be one of the Twelve/Thirteen from the prophecy.
-Glad Charley's dad died, he was awful and nothing but a prick. No doubt, he'll still be annoying Charley and the gang even though he's dead. I am looking forward to seeing how Charley's stepmum will behave now that he's dead, I'm hoping there'll be some insight into her cruel bitchiness towards Charley.
-I'm annoyed about how the prophecy is playing out. I don't think I like that the prophecy about who destroys Satan/saves the world is about Charley's unborn daughter instead of Charley herself. The six earlier books were building up to a final battle between good/evil, but now that probably won't happen in this series because Charley's daughter will have to be born and grow up first. So unless the series skips ahead years, it won't end with the final epic showdown that was promised in earlier books. All that the series can deliver (if there's no time jumps) will be Charley/Reyes protecting their infant daughter and the final showdown that was expected won't happen. I want to see the two different Twelves battling, the thirteenth struggling with whether to side with good or evil, and the prophecy actually playing out - all of that was pretty much promised in earlier books but it most likely won't happen in this series. I really hope there's no lame spin off, I wanted the whole prophecy arc to be fully resolved in this series, I'll feel cheated if it isn't.
-There was a bit of Jacob/Renesmee vibe going on, it really did seem like Osh was romantically interested in Charley's unborn baby, it was creepy and disgusting. I hope Osh's interest in Charley's kid is to do with the fight against evil and no grooming/paedophilia will go on.
-Liked what happened with Amber, and that Quentin and co would somehow help with the prophecy. But I'm not happy that all this great build up in the series will amount to nothing since it seems unlikely there'll be a time jump to actually see how Charley's daughter and her twelve/thirteen fight the bad guys.
-It was rather ridiculous how Charley was meant to be all powerful and was able to fight hellhounds and demons yet random weak humans were able to over power and best her without difficulty. Charley can't be a super speshul all powerful snowflake able to fight hordes of demons yet also a weakling who gets hurt/almost killed by an average human. It has to be one or another, otherwise it makes no sense.
-Who sent the twelve hellhounds? Why were the Vatican following/getting information on Charley? How did they know about her in the first place? Who was that Duff guy mentioned at the end? Was he a ghost following Charley or was he the guy who took all those pictures? Who killed Charley's dad? Why didn't he just tell her? Why was Charley always conveniently interrupted whenever she was trying to find out more about herself/hell/demons? Why was Reyes so cowardly about telling Charley her real name? Why was Osh acting like such a sleaze when it came to the baby?
Although, I can't stand Charley/Reyes and I'm not a fan of the investigation-of-the-week type plot, I do pretty much love everything else about the series. The ongoing arc with the prophecy/demons is keeping me hooked, not to mention the world and secondary characters. I'm hoping the next book will cut down on Charley's 'humour', all the fangirling, Reyes's douchery, and the random/pointless investigations and instead focus on the good stuff.
February 13, 2016
Yay! Charley isn't all depressed and PTSDish in this book. I like happy crazy Charley! I like how she names everything. BEEP!!! How fricken cute is Beep?!!!!
So, in this book, we are mainly dealing with hellhounds. There are 12 and they are trying to kill Charley. Also, they are invisible, huge, with sharp claws and teeth, and inhumanly fast. Very scary stuff!
We also have Charley's annoying old friend haunting her in ghost form. She never shuts up and complains to Charley day and night about being dead. The dead can be so frustrating to deal with! They have major boundary issues too, as they often show up in her shower. It's bad enough that she has a ghost rottweiler who is obsessed with water always in there with her. The last thing she needs is more crowding while she's trying to wash her hair.
The Dealer is a great new character, and we finally got his name - Osh. I'm really wondering what his long-game is and how he will affect the future prophecies. I get a feeling he is very interested in Beep. Does this have a Jacob-imprint thing going on? I have to wonder...
There is also a very Friday the 13th-ish slaughter at a camp thing with lots of ghosts, and a love-crazed news reporter stalking Reyes. He's gotten so much better, sweeter, that he's finally "stalkable" in my book. It's about time! If a guy isn't worth stalking, then he goes straight into the friend zone.
Ok, I realize this is a crappy review. I have had a crappy day, so it seemed appropriate to share the craptasticness of it. As a consolation prize, here is a funny quote from the book (because I was too lazy to put in quotes):
So, in this book, we are mainly dealing with hellhounds. There are 12 and they are trying to kill Charley. Also, they are invisible, huge, with sharp claws and teeth, and inhumanly fast. Very scary stuff!
We also have Charley's annoying old friend haunting her in ghost form. She never shuts up and complains to Charley day and night about being dead. The dead can be so frustrating to deal with! They have major boundary issues too, as they often show up in her shower. It's bad enough that she has a ghost rottweiler who is obsessed with water always in there with her. The last thing she needs is more crowding while she's trying to wash her hair.
The Dealer is a great new character, and we finally got his name - Osh. I'm really wondering what his long-game is and how he will affect the future prophecies. I get a feeling he is very interested in Beep. Does this have a Jacob-imprint thing going on? I have to wonder...
There is also a very Friday the 13th-ish slaughter at a camp thing with lots of ghosts, and a love-crazed news reporter stalking Reyes. He's gotten so much better, sweeter, that he's finally "stalkable" in my book. It's about time! If a guy isn't worth stalking, then he goes straight into the friend zone.
Ok, I realize this is a crappy review. I have had a crappy day, so it seemed appropriate to share the craptasticness of it. As a consolation prize, here is a funny quote from the book (because I was too lazy to put in quotes):
Want to read
January 2, 2014
Holy shit! This means that the world won't end with book six! Ahhhhh, this is so exciting! We get to experience perfection for a while longer! And holy molly, that title! Seventh Grave and no body.... it sounds so freaky! I can already picture everyone running around, trying to escape....
kicking some major demon and evil human butt...
and discovering life-altering secrets that will rock their world...
And of course there will be more Charley and Reyes! *sighs happily* This couple is going to be the death of me, I can fell it! Charley, awkward and hilarious and with a talent for always getting into the worst kind of trouble, but always being able to come out stronger but not necessarily smarter. Reyes, well, he is just the embodiment of male perfection and he can make you throw your panties out of the window just by looking at you.
Yes, it is true, both of them have attitude and both of them (well, especially Reyes, know how perfect they are)...
Nevertheless, I have a feeling that this is going to be even more amazing that the previous book. Even though I don't know how this is humanly possible. And, as we found out in book #5, they are probably going to get married! This means more hot and steamy scenes (yay!) and that things are going to be even more difficult for them since Hell is quite literally after them! Holy shit, that one was a blow right to the feels!
Ugh, I can't wait for book #7 and six hasn't even been published yet! Well, until then, Charley, Reyes,
August 30, 2022
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I don't like pregnant Charley.
Babies ruin everything. There I said it.
So, in this instalment we follow our hero (sans coffee, the horror!) as she balances running from the 12 hell hounds sent to kill her, trying to solve a Friday The 13th style mystery, testing her growing abilities, learning more about whether she's going to save or destroy the world as per the big ol' prophecy, dealing with being pregnant with Beep, and of course, delving deeper into her dysfunctional relationship with Reyes.
At this point, fans pretty much know what they're going to get when they pick up a Charley book. There's not a lot to say about this series that hasn't already been said, or can't be said exclusively with gifs and some swear words.
It's kind of annoying that it's taken six or seven books for Charley to start getting a Reaper education. I love Charley and her inability to take anything seriously, but even still, you would think she would have had the desire to figure out more about being a Reaper. How can someone be that nonchalant about such a very big, weird thing in their own life?
And some parts of the plot are kind of ridiculous - for instance, the blowjob that reveals an otherworldly secret about Charley to Reyes. Honestly, though, I must be giving blowjobs wrong? I never get otherworldly secrets out of them?
Also, there's just too much Reyes in this one for me. But they did get actually for real married time. At the very least, I don't have to read the word "affianced" anymore.
Be prepared for another action-packed cliffhanger ending that leaves Charley in complete emotional turmoil, and opens the door for the next round of skilful arc progression.
⭐⭐⭐½ | 3.5 stars rounded down
I don't like pregnant Charley.
Babies ruin everything. There I said it.
So, in this instalment we follow our hero (sans coffee, the horror!) as she balances running from the 12 hell hounds sent to kill her, trying to solve a Friday The 13th style mystery, testing her growing abilities, learning more about whether she's going to save or destroy the world as per the big ol' prophecy, dealing with being pregnant with Beep, and of course, delving deeper into her dysfunctional relationship with Reyes.
At this point, fans pretty much know what they're going to get when they pick up a Charley book. There's not a lot to say about this series that hasn't already been said, or can't be said exclusively with gifs and some swear words.
It's kind of annoying that it's taken six or seven books for Charley to start getting a Reaper education. I love Charley and her inability to take anything seriously, but even still, you would think she would have had the desire to figure out more about being a Reaper. How can someone be that nonchalant about such a very big, weird thing in their own life?
And some parts of the plot are kind of ridiculous - for instance, the blowjob that reveals an otherworldly secret about Charley to Reyes. Honestly, though, I must be giving blowjobs wrong? I never get otherworldly secrets out of them?
Also, there's just too much Reyes in this one for me. But they did get actually for real married time. At the very least, I don't have to read the word "affianced" anymore.
Be prepared for another action-packed cliffhanger ending that leaves Charley in complete emotional turmoil, and opens the door for the next round of skilful arc progression.
⭐⭐⭐½ | 3.5 stars rounded down
June 30, 2019
Well, this instalment was slightly better than the last -- at least some of the loose ends got tied up. But OMG. Could Charley have been any dumber in this one?
The snark was still there, but what the heck is up to running into danger despite the known risks to herself and others??? This is probably more of a 3.5, but I just can't bring myself to round up for this one.
Badass Female Character Score 3/5 -- Most of these points are for Cookie. I don't like stupid-Charley.
The snark was still there, but what the heck is up to running into danger despite the known risks to herself and others??? This is probably more of a 3.5, but I just can't bring myself to round up for this one.
Badass Female Character Score 3/5 -- Most of these points are for Cookie. I don't like stupid-Charley.
October 24, 2014
This needs to be out. What is with all these insane endings that I feel the need to go out, find me a Dealer and trade my soul just to have a copy of this book...Just kidding I wouldn't that. ...... This is going to be a long wait isn't it?
October 28, 2014
Charley often reminds me of the Dogs on UP
She is so ADHD that it she often goes on a tangent and can’t seem to take anything seriously. I love that about her! Her off the wall remarks are quick and quippy and quirky probably other Q words too.
This follows Charley as she juggles a mystery, a supernatural band of hellhounds out to kill her, a prophecy that she might end the word or save it, a new development named beep, and her man Reyes son of Satan. She has a lot of balls flying, good thing she seems to know what she is doing *cough, cough*.
Darynda Jones really knows how to pack a lot of humor into her books and this one is no exception. It had two of the funniest scenes I’ve read in the series so far, and I will never think of ‘Special Purpose’ the same again. The other thing I always enjoy in a Charley book are the title quotes in the chapters. They are always fun.
The plot and story of this one is maybe one of my favorites because it seems we are finally getting a few answers about the overall plot arc. Finding out more of what Charley is and what she is capable of doing. The prophecy might not be at all what we think and Charley is getting help in some unexpected places. And then there is Mr. Reyes Farrow. I was a little worried that or Son of Satan was getting soft, but he is back in true form in 7th Grave and no one should get in the way of him protecting Charley, not even Charley.
I think this is my second favorite in the series right behind book 5, and that one might win based solely on the use of Post Its, I love Post Its don’t judge.
There is another WTF ending that leaves you on the edge of course with what is in store for Charley next. And they still haven’t answered my most desired question….Who is Mr. Wong really?
That is the question I want to know. Is he the 13th warrior? Or is he something else all together? Much like how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop, The world may never know.
She is so ADHD that it she often goes on a tangent and can’t seem to take anything seriously. I love that about her! Her off the wall remarks are quick and quippy and quirky probably other Q words too.
She stopped riffling and leveled one of her infamous glowers on me. It rivaled my own infamous death stare and was a thing to behold, especially when her top lip twitched, as it did now. I’d have to add that to my death stare. I could twitch. No, wait, I could twerk. Different body part entirely.
This follows Charley as she juggles a mystery, a supernatural band of hellhounds out to kill her, a prophecy that she might end the word or save it, a new development named beep, and her man Reyes son of Satan. She has a lot of balls flying, good thing she seems to know what she is doing *cough, cough*.
Darynda Jones really knows how to pack a lot of humor into her books and this one is no exception. It had two of the funniest scenes I’ve read in the series so far, and I will never think of ‘Special Purpose’ the same again. The other thing I always enjoy in a Charley book are the title quotes in the chapters. They are always fun.
We are all searching for someone whose demons play well with ours. —BUMPER STICKER
I don’t think I get enough credit for the fact that I do all of this unmedicated.
If I’m upset, hold me and tell me how beautiful I am. If I growl, retreat to a safe distance and throw chocolate. —BEST. ADVICE. EVER.
The plot and story of this one is maybe one of my favorites because it seems we are finally getting a few answers about the overall plot arc. Finding out more of what Charley is and what she is capable of doing. The prophecy might not be at all what we think and Charley is getting help in some unexpected places. And then there is Mr. Reyes Farrow. I was a little worried that or Son of Satan was getting soft, but he is back in true form in 7th Grave and no one should get in the way of him protecting Charley, not even Charley.
“And I can lose you?” I asked, almost screaming at him.
He lowered his head and pinched the bridge of his nose with his thumb and index finger. Then he admitted what was probably his greatest fear. “I don’t know how to win. I don’t have the faintest idea of how to kill the Twelve. And when I saw your name on that wall.” His breath hitched in his chest. Then he focused his coffee-colored gaze on me. “If you die,” he said with a savage vehemence in his voice, “I will go straight to hell and kill every demon there. Or I’ll perish in the attempt.”
I think this is my second favorite in the series right behind book 5, and that one might win based solely on the use of Post Its, I love Post Its don’t judge.
There is another WTF ending that leaves you on the edge of course with what is in store for Charley next. And they still haven’t answered my most desired question….Who is Mr. Wong really?
“What you should be asking yourself,” he said, indicating Mr. Wong with a nod as the departed man hovered in my corner, “is why a being that ungodly powerful is hanging out in your apartment.”
That is the question I want to know. Is he the 13th warrior? Or is he something else all together? Much like how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop, The world may never know.
January 3, 2016
3.5-4 Stars
Another great installment and I'm loving Reyes more and more with every book. The only drawback to me is Charley constantly rushing off to danger with no backup. Her reckless behavior was annoying, and she has more to think of than just herself now. Other than that, I was cracking up as usual!
The audio versions of this series are flat out amazing! Lorelei King delivers Darynda Jones' humor with impeccable timing!
Another great installment and I'm loving Reyes more and more with every book. The only drawback to me is Charley constantly rushing off to danger with no backup. Her reckless behavior was annoying, and she has more to think of than just herself now. Other than that, I was cracking up as usual!
The audio versions of this series are flat out amazing! Lorelei King delivers Darynda Jones' humor with impeccable timing!
June 12, 2019
This one was a little more depressing than the previous books.
Hopefully the series turns upward again soon.
Hopefully the series turns upward again soon.
October 30, 2014
Charley's up to her usual antics and bouts of craziness but this time, she has an unofficial bodyguard following her every move whether she likes it not. Good thing she likes him!
Finally, finally, Charley is getting some Reaper education and making strides with her abilities. It's been a long time coming. And people are starting to be forthright with her and that's a big help.
Believe it or not, she actually gets some answers out of Reyes as well. And he's even pushing her to work on her powers...much to his surprise.
Of course, there is the usual few cases going on. I do have to say that it's become a bit of a formula and because of that, it's easy to figure out who the big bad is. The hellhounds are a different story all together...that was very intriguing!
Reyes does something out of the norm and it's a little disconcerting but have faith. Things will be explained.
And there was some very interesting steamy moments especially when Charley decided to twist her powers. Let's put it this way, Reyes was a very happy man! (It did, however, give me a little feeling of déjà vu with the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost)
Charley also has to contend with Jessica following her around. Not sure what the outcome will be of that but there was an interesting event that Jessica instigated. The last scene with Jessica made me laugh though.
And then there's Charley's Dad....we get to find out what he's been up to. And this leads to another déjà vu moment with the prior same series/author!
Can we talk about Osh for a minute? Not sure what he is all about but I am really liking him more and more. Could there be some history between him and Charley? And his comment about Mr. Wong was interesting!
Along with Charley's developments come certain insights...I'm not sure if I like how things seem to be going. I really like her just as the Reaper but I'm sure DJ will make it work.
I loved what happened at the end...it was bound to happen but not sure that I like the reasonings. But I especially loved getting a Reyes' POV.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Well, I make it a rule never to have sex with anyone who’s mad at me.”
He arched a brow. “It’s a wonder you’ve ever had sex at all.”
♥ “You. Reading. That is probably the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen a man do.”
Finally, finally, Charley is getting some Reaper education and making strides with her abilities. It's been a long time coming. And people are starting to be forthright with her and that's a big help.
Believe it or not, she actually gets some answers out of Reyes as well. And he's even pushing her to work on her powers...much to his surprise.
Of course, there is the usual few cases going on. I do have to say that it's become a bit of a formula and because of that, it's easy to figure out who the big bad is. The hellhounds are a different story all together...that was very intriguing!
Reyes does something out of the norm and it's a little disconcerting but have faith. Things will be explained.
And there was some very interesting steamy moments especially when Charley decided to twist her powers. Let's put it this way, Reyes was a very happy man! (It did, however, give me a little feeling of déjà vu with the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost)
Charley also has to contend with Jessica following her around. Not sure what the outcome will be of that but there was an interesting event that Jessica instigated. The last scene with Jessica made me laugh though.
And then there's Charley's Dad....we get to find out what he's been up to. And this leads to another déjà vu moment with the prior same series/author!
Can we talk about Osh for a minute? Not sure what he is all about but I am really liking him more and more. Could there be some history between him and Charley? And his comment about Mr. Wong was interesting!
Along with Charley's developments come certain insights...I'm not sure if I like how things seem to be going. I really like her just as the Reaper but I'm sure DJ will make it work.
I loved what happened at the end...it was bound to happen but not sure that I like the reasonings. But I especially loved getting a Reyes' POV.
Favorite quotes:
♥ “Well, I make it a rule never to have sex with anyone who’s mad at me.”
He arched a brow. “It’s a wonder you’ve ever had sex at all.”
♥ “You. Reading. That is probably the sexiest thing I’ve ever seen a man do.”
December 28, 2018
I loved the book, I love the series and I get a total kick out of Charley! This book had the requisite mystery of the week, some sexy time, although honestly that part is my last favorite in the CD series, some more information on Charley's powers and purpose, danger! Her personality is charming, exhilarating, annoying and exasperating all at once! How can anyone help but enjoy all of that goodness?!!?
Having said that, I am tired of Reyes and his legendary sexyness! The author attempts at times to give him some other redeemable qualities, but let's face it, apart from who his dad is, his supernatural skills and hotness, there is little to recommend him as a character... The romance is still as shallow as they come.
There is also something bordering on an unhealthy obsession of the author with stepmothers. Really?!?! Everything and everyone else has been understood and forgiven but the stepmother only gets more hated something just isn't right...
Making up for that is the liveliness of Charley's relationship with the rest of the gang and the emotional and tender moments when the departed go to the other side. I actually cried when Jessica's sister confronted her in the hospital, but I think that is just me being a sap.
And is it me, or does the style of writing is very similar to Janet Evanonich? I see a lot of homages throughout the series and get little pleasing jolts of recognition every time:-)
I want to wait with the reading of the next book so I could stretch the enjoyment and be closer to the publication of the next book, but I neeeeeeeeed more, so next book, here I come !
Having said that, I am tired of Reyes and his legendary sexyness! The author attempts at times to give him some other redeemable qualities, but let's face it, apart from who his dad is, his supernatural skills and hotness, there is little to recommend him as a character... The romance is still as shallow as they come.
There is also something bordering on an unhealthy obsession of the author with stepmothers. Really?!?! Everything and everyone else has been understood and forgiven but the stepmother only gets more hated something just isn't right...
Making up for that is the liveliness of Charley's relationship with the rest of the gang and the emotional and tender moments when the departed go to the other side. I actually cried when Jessica's sister confronted her in the hospital, but I think that is just me being a sap.
And is it me, or does the style of writing is very similar to Janet Evanonich? I see a lot of homages throughout the series and get little pleasing jolts of recognition every time:-)
I want to wait with the reading of the next book so I could stretch the enjoyment and be closer to the publication of the next book, but I neeeeeeeeed more, so next book, here I come !
October 20, 2014
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
*** Review may contain spoilers for previous installments in series. ***
Charley Davidson is back for her seventh round of cray-cray situations, murder n' mayhem, and grim reaper pandemonium, only this time her snark is the sole weapon in her arsenal because she has to do it all sans caffeine. Fortunately for her, she has a strong crew of secondary characters at her back, and in this installment she's going to need every single one of them! This audiobook was emotionally taxing; I went from laughing out loud at the heroine's lunacy, to weeping with joy about that THING we've all been waiting for, to blubbering over the death of one of their own. But, this novel wasn't just about the feels because it also featured mucho plot threads, wonderful epiphanies, and made some pretty significant mythology headway. The overall experience was rendered even more perfect with the delightful Lorelei King at the narrative reins.
I like listening to these books because they are light, fun, and typically don't require much thought—ear candy at its best! SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY changed all of that because every chapter, while entertaining, was also crucial to this series' overall story arc. Charley solved a ten year old case in fifteen minutes, and even though that initial plot thread was quickly overshadowed by several others, it was still super important because it was related to the twelve, and pulled agent Carlson into Davidson's inner circle. Then, the priest's minor haunting episode brought Heaven and Hell to the fore by introducing the Vatican and bounty hunter angles. And finally, don't even get me started on the suicide kidnappings and Silvia Star! There were a lot of seemingly unrelated incidents in this installment, however upon closer inspection every single one was part of the bigger picture. Genius!
Charley never fails to crack me up with her t-shirt sayings, eccentric naming habits, and outlandish sense of humour. Her lack of progression as a character used to frustrate me, but the evolution of her abilities, and that of her sidekicks more than make up for her shortcomings in that area. Cookie was as terrific as always, and it appears as though her daughter, Amber, will play a pivotal role in this story as well. Reyes isn't quite as evil as he used to be, but both Charley and The Dealer definitely kept him on his toes. I actually got a kick out of Swopes for once, and even Ubie managed to surprise me. There were unfortunately two deaths in this installment; Belvedere's which was a given (haha!), and one other that broke my heart.
Darynda Jone's writing style is without a doubt addictive; however it's Lorelei King's voice that keeps me coming back for more. She adds a whole new level to Charley with her saucy tone, and uncanny ability to switch from silly to serious in the same breath. I gave this audiobook five stars, but it should be noted that the narrator earned at least one of them all by herself thanks to her A+ delivery. It takes longer to listen than it does to read, yet with King in your ear those extra hours feel like a gift instead of a burden. This novel was one of the most suspenseful in this series to date, and that aspect really came through in Lorelei's performance via her character voices, and the high impact action scenes.
SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY was audiobook magic, plain and simple!
*** Review may contain spoilers for previous installments in series. ***
Charley Davidson is back for her seventh round of cray-cray situations, murder n' mayhem, and grim reaper pandemonium, only this time her snark is the sole weapon in her arsenal because she has to do it all sans caffeine. Fortunately for her, she has a strong crew of secondary characters at her back, and in this installment she's going to need every single one of them! This audiobook was emotionally taxing; I went from laughing out loud at the heroine's lunacy, to weeping with joy about that THING we've all been waiting for, to blubbering over the death of one of their own. But, this novel wasn't just about the feels because it also featured mucho plot threads, wonderful epiphanies, and made some pretty significant mythology headway. The overall experience was rendered even more perfect with the delightful Lorelei King at the narrative reins.
I like listening to these books because they are light, fun, and typically don't require much thought—ear candy at its best! SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY changed all of that because every chapter, while entertaining, was also crucial to this series' overall story arc. Charley solved a ten year old case in fifteen minutes, and even though that initial plot thread was quickly overshadowed by several others, it was still super important because it was related to the twelve, and pulled agent Carlson into Davidson's inner circle. Then, the priest's minor haunting episode brought Heaven and Hell to the fore by introducing the Vatican and bounty hunter angles. And finally, don't even get me started on the suicide kidnappings and Silvia Star! There were a lot of seemingly unrelated incidents in this installment, however upon closer inspection every single one was part of the bigger picture. Genius!
Charley never fails to crack me up with her t-shirt sayings, eccentric naming habits, and outlandish sense of humour. Her lack of progression as a character used to frustrate me, but the evolution of her abilities, and that of her sidekicks more than make up for her shortcomings in that area. Cookie was as terrific as always, and it appears as though her daughter, Amber, will play a pivotal role in this story as well. Reyes isn't quite as evil as he used to be, but both Charley and The Dealer definitely kept him on his toes. I actually got a kick out of Swopes for once, and even Ubie managed to surprise me. There were unfortunately two deaths in this installment; Belvedere's which was a given (haha!), and one other that broke my heart.
Darynda Jone's writing style is without a doubt addictive; however it's Lorelei King's voice that keeps me coming back for more. She adds a whole new level to Charley with her saucy tone, and uncanny ability to switch from silly to serious in the same breath. I gave this audiobook five stars, but it should be noted that the narrator earned at least one of them all by herself thanks to her A+ delivery. It takes longer to listen than it does to read, yet with King in your ear those extra hours feel like a gift instead of a burden. This novel was one of the most suspenseful in this series to date, and that aspect really came through in Lorelei's performance via her character voices, and the high impact action scenes.
SEVENTH GRAVE AND NO BODY was audiobook magic, plain and simple!
October 19, 2014
This being the seventh installment in the Charley Davidson series, there really isn’t much left to say that hasn’t been said already. Fans of the series already know what they’re signing up for, and those of you who have yet to meet Charley and Reyes… who are you and what are you even doing here, folks?
When First Grave on the Left (or Right, I can never remember that) first came out, I didn’t think Darynda’s wonderful sense of humor would last. Sometimes things that are funny in the beginning end getting old and exhausting pretty darn fast. And yet here we are, seven books later, and the Charley Davidson books are still just as fresh, just as entertaining as they were when her story started. What’s more, the more we know these characters, the longer they are a constant in our lives, the more we crave their company and the laughs they inevitably bring.
While Seventh Grave isn’t my favorite of the series, Darynda gave us exactly what we’ve learned to expect: hilarious Charley at her best and at her worst, a marvelous set of secondary characters, multiple plotlines to follow and Reyes to swoon over. Honestly, what more can a reader possibly need?
In Seventh Grave, Charley, Reyes and their many ridiculous sidekicks prepare to fight the Twelve, twelve hellhounds sent after Charley by some yet undiscovered foe. Scared for Charley and the treasure she carries around with her, Reyes decides to follow her every step and ensure her safety himself. Now really, does that sound like something Charley would endure quietly? No. No, it doesn’t.
So Charley is busy dodging Reyes’s constant attention, solving a multiple murder case for the FBI, trying to find her missing father, dealing with a dead former BFF, messing with other people’s love lives and keeping a goldfish alive. In other words, it’s just another day at Davidson Investigations.
Seventh Grave leaves quite a few things open, which is understandable now that we’re finally getting the big picture. Darynda is uncovering the overall story arc slowly and skillfully, with a fabulous sense of timing. Eighth Grave After Dark will inevitably bring more changes for the gang, but we’ll have to wait until May 19th to learn what they are.
Where the heck is TARDIS when we need it?
When First Grave on the Left (or Right, I can never remember that) first came out, I didn’t think Darynda’s wonderful sense of humor would last. Sometimes things that are funny in the beginning end getting old and exhausting pretty darn fast. And yet here we are, seven books later, and the Charley Davidson books are still just as fresh, just as entertaining as they were when her story started. What’s more, the more we know these characters, the longer they are a constant in our lives, the more we crave their company and the laughs they inevitably bring.
While Seventh Grave isn’t my favorite of the series, Darynda gave us exactly what we’ve learned to expect: hilarious Charley at her best and at her worst, a marvelous set of secondary characters, multiple plotlines to follow and Reyes to swoon over. Honestly, what more can a reader possibly need?
In Seventh Grave, Charley, Reyes and their many ridiculous sidekicks prepare to fight the Twelve, twelve hellhounds sent after Charley by some yet undiscovered foe. Scared for Charley and the treasure she carries around with her, Reyes decides to follow her every step and ensure her safety himself. Now really, does that sound like something Charley would endure quietly? No. No, it doesn’t.
So Charley is busy dodging Reyes’s constant attention, solving a multiple murder case for the FBI, trying to find her missing father, dealing with a dead former BFF, messing with other people’s love lives and keeping a goldfish alive. In other words, it’s just another day at Davidson Investigations.
Seventh Grave leaves quite a few things open, which is understandable now that we’re finally getting the big picture. Darynda is uncovering the overall story arc slowly and skillfully, with a fabulous sense of timing. Eighth Grave After Dark will inevitably bring more changes for the gang, but we’ll have to wait until May 19th to learn what they are.
Where the heck is TARDIS when we need it?
November 19, 2018
I think had I just read the CliffNotes summary of this series, even that would've felt OTT. Because wow I don't even know how we're at this point with so many books still to go.
This book (or maybe it's the series? and it's characters?) exhausted me. Charley was going through caffeine withdrawal headaches and I was right there with her. Granted mine might be more the head cold variety but still. There was added pain and I'm just tired.
Charley always seems to test the patience of those around her, including her one true love honey bunny from hell, and yet it seemed even his understanding in this one was.. less so. I wonder if we finally saw some of that frustration (well, there's always been frustration, their tru wuv aside, they have some major issues that never seem to resolve) because Charley is about to go through a growing up stage (finally, so overdue) as a result of what happened at the end of this one (again, another big momentous ending).
Reading these books is so hard because Jones is very aware of her characters' flaws and struggles, and makes the reader aware that the writer is aware, and even that some of the characters know their own hangups, and yet we're still forced to endure the ridiculous. Or rather I'm still forced. There are so many fans of these books and I'm clearly in the minority. Oh well. One more to go and then I'm off the hook for a while.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
This book (or maybe it's the series? and it's characters?) exhausted me. Charley was going through caffeine withdrawal headaches and I was right there with her. Granted mine might be more the head cold variety but still. There was added pain and I'm just tired.
Charley always seems to test the patience of those around her, including her one true love honey bunny from hell, and yet it seemed even his understanding in this one was.. less so. I wonder if we finally saw some of that frustration (well, there's always been frustration, their tru wuv aside, they have some major issues that never seem to resolve) because Charley is about to go through a growing up stage (finally, so overdue) as a result of what happened at the end of this one (again, another big momentous ending).
Reading these books is so hard because Jones is very aware of her characters' flaws and struggles, and makes the reader aware that the writer is aware, and even that some of the characters know their own hangups, and yet we're still forced to endure the ridiculous. Or rather I'm still forced. There are so many fans of these books and I'm clearly in the minority. Oh well. One more to go and then I'm off the hook for a while.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
August 6, 2016
I wasn’t supposed to read this book, I didn’t want to read it. The last instalment in this series disappointed me so much I wasn’t even going to bother with Seventh Grave. BUT curiosity got the best of me and I just couldn’t resist it, I just HAD to find out whether I should give up on Charley, Reyes and the rest of the clique.
Well, I am SO GLAD I didn’t give up on them! This has to be the best instalment in the series so far. It’s absolutely hilarious (with one ROFL line after another), exciting, fast-paced… and, most importantly, Reyes is back to his very sexy son of Satan self! He had turned into such a boring puppy in Sixth Grave, I simply couldn’t believe it. I wanted the sexy evilness back but didn’t have high hopes about it. AND YET my wish was granted and excuse-me-while-I-swoon Reyes Alexander Farrow is now back in full force (with some very creative use of duct tape I might add)! YES! I should also add that although Charley is still her good old snarky annoying as hell self she seems to have matured quite a bit. She really got on my nerves in Sixth Grave and her attitude towards Reyes was really frustrating and downright annoying. All that is clearly forgotten and she is just great in this instalment. I love where she and Reyes are right now. They’re still mad at each other 80% of the time but that’s only because one is as stubborn as the other. They really make a great team!
The other problem I had with Sixth Grave was the plot. And the many sub-plots. They were just all over the place and added little to the story itself. Darynda Jones got a bit lost there and the main series arc was completely drowned in the (mostly uninteresting) sub-plots. I wanted to hear more about the prophecies and the twelve beasts but that wasn’t to happen in Sixth Grave. Now with Seventh Grave we are definitely back on track! There are three sub-plots but they are well-structured and tie-in nicely with the story as a whole. Only one of them is directly linked to the story arc but the other two complement the plot well and serve as triggers for some of the best action scenes in the book.
As little as we heard about the prophecies and twelve beasts in Sixth Grave, we find out A LOT about them (and many other things!) in Seventh Grave. The book is just packed with information and WOW-revelations about Charley, Reyes, the Dealer… even Amber! It’s hard to talk about the story itself without revealing anything so I’ll just say that this is one fantastic instalment! And it is absolutely freaking HILARIOUS! I think I highlighted my way through 90% of the book, it’s just one crazy-funny line after another. Charley is dead funny and her conversations with Cookie (among others) just kill me. I won’t start quoting my favourites lines here as I might as well quote the whole book hence causing this review to implode.
There are so many other great things about Sitxh Grave, I think it calls for a random list of pure awesomeness:
That first scene in SAC’s car with Jessica ranting and Reyes scowling. Beep! Charley suffering from caffeine withdrawal. Belvedere the fish (then Mrs Thibodeaux the fish!) . The “lick me” scene when Cookie cuts her finger (with Reyes working his magic on her **swoons**). . Charley calling Garrett a slut. The Vatican! Jessica. The Dealer aka Osh. Angel (and one very touching scene with Charley). Strawberry Shortcake. The scene with the supposed perv in the freezer of the asylum. Any scene involving the twelve beasts. Reyes + Osh + Garrett = the sleeping beauties. The bodyguard conversation between Charley & Reyes. Charley not wanting to use the F word (ha ha!). Very creative use of duct tape (I know I know, I already mentioned that but what can I say? I'm only human and the flesh is weak). Antonio Banderas as the 13th warrior. Charley and Amber talking about Reyes’ “special purpose”. Any scene when Charley slows time and generally kicks butt. Amber’s tarot card reading. Charley & Cookie digging in the graveyard then Osh doing the digging while the girls are ogling him. And last but certainly not least: . My my my… I rest my case.
That was just one explosive instalment. No, I’m definitely NOT giving up on this series just yet!
Well, I am SO GLAD I didn’t give up on them! This has to be the best instalment in the series so far. It’s absolutely hilarious (with one ROFL line after another), exciting, fast-paced… and, most importantly, Reyes is back to his very sexy son of Satan self! He had turned into such a boring puppy in Sixth Grave, I simply couldn’t believe it. I wanted the sexy evilness back but didn’t have high hopes about it. AND YET my wish was granted and excuse-me-while-I-swoon Reyes Alexander Farrow is now back in full force (with some very creative use of duct tape I might add)! YES! I should also add that although Charley is still her good old snarky annoying as hell self she seems to have matured quite a bit. She really got on my nerves in Sixth Grave and her attitude towards Reyes was really frustrating and downright annoying. All that is clearly forgotten and she is just great in this instalment. I love where she and Reyes are right now. They’re still mad at each other 80% of the time but that’s only because one is as stubborn as the other. They really make a great team!
The other problem I had with Sixth Grave was the plot. And the many sub-plots. They were just all over the place and added little to the story itself. Darynda Jones got a bit lost there and the main series arc was completely drowned in the (mostly uninteresting) sub-plots. I wanted to hear more about the prophecies and the twelve beasts but that wasn’t to happen in Sixth Grave. Now with Seventh Grave we are definitely back on track! There are three sub-plots but they are well-structured and tie-in nicely with the story as a whole. Only one of them is directly linked to the story arc but the other two complement the plot well and serve as triggers for some of the best action scenes in the book.
As little as we heard about the prophecies and twelve beasts in Sixth Grave, we find out A LOT about them (and many other things!) in Seventh Grave. The book is just packed with information and WOW-revelations about Charley, Reyes, the Dealer… even Amber! It’s hard to talk about the story itself without revealing anything so I’ll just say that this is one fantastic instalment! And it is absolutely freaking HILARIOUS! I think I highlighted my way through 90% of the book, it’s just one crazy-funny line after another. Charley is dead funny and her conversations with Cookie (among others) just kill me. I won’t start quoting my favourites lines here as I might as well quote the whole book hence causing this review to implode.
There are so many other great things about Sitxh Grave, I think it calls for a random list of pure awesomeness:
That first scene in SAC’s car with Jessica ranting and Reyes scowling. Beep! Charley suffering from caffeine withdrawal. Belvedere the fish (then Mrs Thibodeaux the fish!) . The “lick me” scene when Cookie cuts her finger (with Reyes working his magic on her **swoons**). . Charley calling Garrett a slut. The Vatican! Jessica. The Dealer aka Osh. Angel (and one very touching scene with Charley). Strawberry Shortcake. The scene with the supposed perv in the freezer of the asylum. Any scene involving the twelve beasts. Reyes + Osh + Garrett = the sleeping beauties. The bodyguard conversation between Charley & Reyes. Charley not wanting to use the F word (ha ha!). Very creative use of duct tape (I know I know, I already mentioned that but what can I say? I'm only human and the flesh is weak). Antonio Banderas as the 13th warrior. Charley and Amber talking about Reyes’ “special purpose”. Any scene when Charley slows time and generally kicks butt. Amber’s tarot card reading. Charley & Cookie digging in the graveyard then Osh doing the digging while the girls are ogling him. And last but certainly not least: . My my my… I rest my case.
That was just one explosive instalment. No, I’m definitely NOT giving up on this series just yet!
November 17, 2014
I can't explain how these books just get better and better - but they do!
It feels like the lives of our favourite characters are coming into their own, I can feel the change on the horizon and it is going to be massive... Charley Davidson, you are - a God!!
Darynda Jones does it every single time, she makes me LOL, literally, and she has me on the edge of my chair... there have been times I have found myself choked but in this book I actually cried, I gave a sob and had to close my kindle to grab hold of myself... It was heart warming what Charley done...
I can't wait to find out what is going to happen, these books are just so dam addictive, I don't ever want them to end!!!
It feels like the lives of our favourite characters are coming into their own, I can feel the change on the horizon and it is going to be massive... Charley Davidson, you are - a God!!
Darynda Jones does it every single time, she makes me LOL, literally, and she has me on the edge of my chair... there have been times I have found myself choked but in this book I actually cried, I gave a sob and had to close my kindle to grab hold of myself... It was heart warming what Charley done...
I can't wait to find out what is going to happen, these books are just so dam addictive, I don't ever want them to end!!!
May 27, 2015
Yayyy! I won the audio book on Hot Listens and I've never listened to audio books before, so this should be fun :D!
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
I had high hopes for the 7th installment in Charley Davidson series, especially after that glorious ending of the previous book and I was super-excited when I won the audio book on Hot Listens Blog.
My expectations about this book:
~ More in-depth building of the paranormal/ fantasy world and revelations about the background of the Mcs and other secondary characters and less of Charley's side PI cases.
~ Charley being more mature and taking life/death situations more seriously.
~ Reyes and Charley to stop keeping secrets from each other. It's really high time for that to finally happen considering the next book is the final in the series. (Even if it had been high time the moment they had decided that they are going to be together.)
(Correction: The next book is not the last one. There are more books coming.)
What I got:
~ Charley's side PI cases still taking a lot of space of the plot and btw. I still don't see the appeal in them, especially now when the focus of the story should be on other, more relevant things (like the apocalypse and the invading demons.) And don't let me start about the harem of Reyes' fans and "the bad guy" in the last case and its connection to Reyes. Insert gigantic *eye-roll*.
There was more world-building of the fantasy world, but was it unique and original? I'm not sure. I expected much, much more.
~ Charley being reckless and immature, maybe even more than ever considering "her condition". As I said in my previous reviews- her goofy behavior was endearing in the first four books, but now, to be honest, it is getting more and more frustrating, especially in more serious situations. I expected more character growth to be exact. Reyes Farrow definitely has hands full when it comes to her.
~ And yes, Charley and Reyes are still keeping secrets from each other whenever the opportunity rises. Less than before, but enough to frustrate.
The story was in spite this yet again fun, emotional, action-packed & steamy. If anyone knows to write fun, hilarious situations- it's Darynda Jones, but after reading the epic, new installations of Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning, Kate Daniels Series by Ilona Andrews, Guild Hunter Series by Nalini Singh I couldn't not notice how the world-building here wasn't on the same level. That's why 3 solid stars.
Lorelei King was a great narrator. It took some time for me to get used to (and not giggle) a woman imitating voices of male characters, but I think she did a pretty good job. On the other hand my first experience with audio book was quite hilarious, like f.e. me falling asleep and waking up 6 chapters later etc.
The positive things about audio books, I would say, are:
~ You can do a lot of things while listening (f.e. clean, paint your nails, drive a bike/car etc.)
~ In my opinion, the listening heightens the experience- the voice of the narrator draws you slowly in the plot of the book and you feel like you're part of the story yourself (btw. which was quite scary when there were demons involved.)
All in all, audio books have their appeal, but while I'm glad I tried it, at the same time I'm not sure they are the right choice for me. I missed my kindle tremendously. It took me about 5 days to finish the book which never happens when reading and that's why I think I'll stick to books for now.
***REVIEW***
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
“Charley Davidson, Private Investigator, Because No One Is Better At Investigating Your Privates.”
I had high hopes for the 7th installment in Charley Davidson series, especially after that glorious ending of the previous book and I was super-excited when I won the audio book on Hot Listens Blog.
My expectations about this book:
~ More in-depth building of the paranormal/ fantasy world and revelations about the background of the Mcs and other secondary characters and less of Charley's side PI cases.
~ Charley being more mature and taking life/death situations more seriously.
~ Reyes and Charley to stop keeping secrets from each other. It's really high time for that to finally happen considering the next book is the final in the series. (Even if it had been high time the moment they had decided that they are going to be together.)
(Correction: The next book is not the last one. There are more books coming.)
What I got:
~ Charley's side PI cases still taking a lot of space of the plot and btw. I still don't see the appeal in them, especially now when the focus of the story should be on other, more relevant things (like the apocalypse and the invading demons.) And don't let me start about the harem of Reyes' fans and "the bad guy" in the last case and its connection to Reyes. Insert gigantic *eye-roll*.
There was more world-building of the fantasy world, but was it unique and original? I'm not sure. I expected much, much more.
~ Charley being reckless and immature, maybe even more than ever considering "her condition". As I said in my previous reviews- her goofy behavior was endearing in the first four books, but now, to be honest, it is getting more and more frustrating, especially in more serious situations. I expected more character growth to be exact. Reyes Farrow definitely has hands full when it comes to her.
~ And yes, Charley and Reyes are still keeping secrets from each other whenever the opportunity rises. Less than before, but enough to frustrate.
“Damn it, I needed The Idiot's Guide to Grim Reaperism.”
The story was in spite this yet again fun, emotional, action-packed & steamy. If anyone knows to write fun, hilarious situations- it's Darynda Jones, but after reading the epic, new installations of Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning, Kate Daniels Series by Ilona Andrews, Guild Hunter Series by Nalini Singh I couldn't not notice how the world-building here wasn't on the same level. That's why 3 solid stars.
“I knew it!” she said, glaring at me. “You’re in league with the devil.” “Duh. I’m affianced to him. Or, well, his son. I guess that makes me ‘in league’ with him, but you can’t judge people by their in-laws. In-laws are all crazy. Everyone knows that.”
Lorelei King was a great narrator. It took some time for me to get used to (and not giggle) a woman imitating voices of male characters, but I think she did a pretty good job. On the other hand my first experience with audio book was quite hilarious, like f.e. me falling asleep and waking up 6 chapters later etc.
The positive things about audio books, I would say, are:
~ You can do a lot of things while listening (f.e. clean, paint your nails, drive a bike/car etc.)
~ In my opinion, the listening heightens the experience- the voice of the narrator draws you slowly in the plot of the book and you feel like you're part of the story yourself (btw. which was quite scary when there were demons involved.)
All in all, audio books have their appeal, but while I'm glad I tried it, at the same time I'm not sure they are the right choice for me. I missed my kindle tremendously. It took me about 5 days to finish the book which never happens when reading and that's why I think I'll stick to books for now.
Read
April 18, 2021Ben okuyalı oldu bir kaç gün.Ancak fırsat buldum yazmaya. Şimdiden söyleyeyim spoilerı dan diye söyleyebilirim. Böyle en net, direkt olarak.
Önceki kitabın sonunda Charley hamile olduğunu öğrendi. Ortada daha doğru düzgün bir düşman, ilerledikleri bir yön yok ama Bismillah çocuk var. 🤦Canım ben bu durumu severim ama biraz kaos görseydik iyiydi.
Dedektiflik durumları iyice yavanlaşmaya başladı. Yani bir araştırma maratonu var ama o kadar. Sonu genelde Charley iyice sopa yemeden hiç bir şey olmuyor gibi. Önce korkunç bir sahne sonra, gücünün ve olayın ortaya çıkmasıyla bitiyor. Sınıra gelmeden asla gücü ortaya çıkmıyor ve sıkıldım bu durumdan.
Ah bir de bu kitaba kadar Charley'i tutuyordum. Yani ne yapsa mantıklı olmasa da destekçisiydim. Ama iyice sinir olmaya başladım.Yahu tamam bir sorumluluk hissediyorsun ama hamile hamile canının kıymeti yokmuşçasına bu macera hevesi de nedir? Sonra Reyes seni korumaya çalışıyor diye trip at🤷Allah'ım ne hallere düştük 😒
Bir de sonu var... Bak direk söyleyeceğim uyarmadın demeyin. Babası ölüyor 🤦 Charley'e deniz turuna gidiyorum diyip bir araştırma peşine düşüyor. Meğer bizim kızı doğduğu andan beri takip edenler varmış.🤷Vatikan da kızın adına dosyalar var 🙄Ey güzel Allah'ım daha neler olabilir ki😒
Bir de 12 olayı var. 12 kötü cehennem köpekleri mı demeliyim... Charley'in peşinde. Zaten korkunçlar. Bir de göremiyoruz. Yine🤦Yazar görünmezlik durumunu seviyor belli. Bu 12ye karşı 12 iyiler de var nerdedir belli değil. Sonra 13 var. Durumu belirleyecek olan. Ama o kim Allah bilir 😂
Kısaca bence saçmalamaya başladı. Kötü değil yanıltmayayım ama beklediğim gibi ilerlemiyor kesinlikle. Ay sıkıldım 😝
Önceki kitabın sonunda Charley hamile olduğunu öğrendi. Ortada daha doğru düzgün bir düşman, ilerledikleri bir yön yok ama Bismillah çocuk var. 🤦Canım ben bu durumu severim ama biraz kaos görseydik iyiydi.
Dedektiflik durumları iyice yavanlaşmaya başladı. Yani bir araştırma maratonu var ama o kadar. Sonu genelde Charley iyice sopa yemeden hiç bir şey olmuyor gibi. Önce korkunç bir sahne sonra, gücünün ve olayın ortaya çıkmasıyla bitiyor. Sınıra gelmeden asla gücü ortaya çıkmıyor ve sıkıldım bu durumdan.
Ah bir de bu kitaba kadar Charley'i tutuyordum. Yani ne yapsa mantıklı olmasa da destekçisiydim. Ama iyice sinir olmaya başladım.Yahu tamam bir sorumluluk hissediyorsun ama hamile hamile canının kıymeti yokmuşçasına bu macera hevesi de nedir? Sonra Reyes seni korumaya çalışıyor diye trip at🤷Allah'ım ne hallere düştük 😒
Bir de sonu var... Bak direk söyleyeceğim uyarmadın demeyin. Babası ölüyor 🤦 Charley'e deniz turuna gidiyorum diyip bir araştırma peşine düşüyor. Meğer bizim kızı doğduğu andan beri takip edenler varmış.🤷Vatikan da kızın adına dosyalar var 🙄Ey güzel Allah'ım daha neler olabilir ki😒
Bir de 12 olayı var. 12 kötü cehennem köpekleri mı demeliyim... Charley'in peşinde. Zaten korkunçlar. Bir de göremiyoruz. Yine🤦Yazar görünmezlik durumunu seviyor belli. Bu 12ye karşı 12 iyiler de var nerdedir belli değil. Sonra 13 var. Durumu belirleyecek olan. Ama o kim Allah bilir 😂
Kısaca bence saçmalamaya başladı. Kötü değil yanıltmayayım ama beklediğim gibi ilerlemiyor kesinlikle. Ay sıkıldım 😝
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2014
Where to start with this one as much new stuff is injected and questions unanswered as ones from last book that were answered. This seems to be heading for a big finale someplace in the next few books so it is almost becoming a very involved serialized story and kinda has a big finale getting lined up out there in a future book.
WARNING!!!!! If you have NOT read Sixth Grave on the Edge then STOP reading, this will be a spoiler that you don't want to read.
Now that I have your attention I should mention that you do not want to read the synopsis of book 8 either until you finish this book
OK, on the last page of Sixth Grave on the Edge we find out that our favorite Grim Reaper Charley is pregnant (which kinda came as a surprise to everyone), in this book keeping herself and the baby alive have become a primary mission for Reyes(and Charley to a somewhat lesser extent it seems at times). 12 hellhounds have been released from Hell and they want Charley, Reyes does not know how to kill them (and neither does anyone else), add to this plot, Charley's Dad is missing, add to that people who are writing suicide notes but leaving no body (hence the title). It is a real party for Charley and crew.
While Reyes would like nothing better than to lock her in her apartment with him as 24 hour guard, Charley is having none of it because she will go crazy if she even tries. Unfortunately, it does lead to some moments of TSTL for Charley which does not really help her cause.
A newswoman is getting a bit too close to Reyes for her comfort and jealously looks bad on almost anyone, Charley is no exception. Reyes wants her to stay away from the newswoman because he feels something is "not right" about her but when it comes to scummy reporters how do you tell.
I can tell you that I laughed more at this book than the last one which I thought was hilarious, the beauty is that Darynda Jones manages to do this without taking the edge off of the serious parts of this book, takes a clever touch to accomplish that piece of writing.
There are several surprises in this book, a couple are held to the last chapter, you will have a few questions that obviously are not going to get answered until next book.
The overarching story is for all practical purposes being serialized and while i have no problem with that it DOES mean that you cannot even read the synopsis for future books or you WILL get some spoilers that should be discovered while reading the book.
Bottom Line: This is a 5 Star novel, I will subtract a half a star just because I already knew a big spoiler just from reading the synopsis for the next book Eighth Grave After Dark. Still you gotta get this but again, books 6-7-8 look like they HAVE to be read in order or you will not be able to appreciate them as much as previous novels (which still should be read in order but was not a 100% requirement). There are a couple of quick plots that Charley takes care of that add to the entertainment level of this book. So 4.5 Stars and highly recommended.
WARNING!!!!! If you have NOT read Sixth Grave on the Edge then STOP reading, this will be a spoiler that you don't want to read.
Now that I have your attention I should mention that you do not want to read the synopsis of book 8 either until you finish this book
OK, on the last page of Sixth Grave on the Edge we find out that our favorite Grim Reaper Charley is pregnant (which kinda came as a surprise to everyone), in this book keeping herself and the baby alive have become a primary mission for Reyes(and Charley to a somewhat lesser extent it seems at times). 12 hellhounds have been released from Hell and they want Charley, Reyes does not know how to kill them (and neither does anyone else), add to this plot, Charley's Dad is missing, add to that people who are writing suicide notes but leaving no body (hence the title). It is a real party for Charley and crew.
While Reyes would like nothing better than to lock her in her apartment with him as 24 hour guard, Charley is having none of it because she will go crazy if she even tries. Unfortunately, it does lead to some moments of TSTL for Charley which does not really help her cause.
A newswoman is getting a bit too close to Reyes for her comfort and jealously looks bad on almost anyone, Charley is no exception. Reyes wants her to stay away from the newswoman because he feels something is "not right" about her but when it comes to scummy reporters how do you tell.
I can tell you that I laughed more at this book than the last one which I thought was hilarious, the beauty is that Darynda Jones manages to do this without taking the edge off of the serious parts of this book, takes a clever touch to accomplish that piece of writing.
There are several surprises in this book, a couple are held to the last chapter, you will have a few questions that obviously are not going to get answered until next book.
The overarching story is for all practical purposes being serialized and while i have no problem with that it DOES mean that you cannot even read the synopsis for future books or you WILL get some spoilers that should be discovered while reading the book.
Bottom Line: This is a 5 Star novel, I will subtract a half a star just because I already knew a big spoiler just from reading the synopsis for the next book Eighth Grave After Dark. Still you gotta get this but again, books 6-7-8 look like they HAVE to be read in order or you will not be able to appreciate them as much as previous novels (which still should be read in order but was not a 100% requirement). There are a couple of quick plots that Charley takes care of that add to the entertainment level of this book. So 4.5 Stars and highly recommended.
March 2, 2023
The impending war that has been prophesied has really started to ramp up in this series. I wish I had taken notes from the beginning. We are learning so many new pieces to the puzzle. The author is doing a really good job of dropping information in previous books that become more relevant in later books. I'm actually in awe with how the author is tying everything together.
Cases Charley have been tasked with in this book are:
-FBI agent Carlson asked for Charlie's help with an unsolved case of a family who was murdered at a camp. This leads to a bigger case that was never resolved in this book. I'm guessing it will get brought up again in another book. This is also the first time Charlie encounters the Hellhounds.
-bodies are being snatched from a cemetery
-people are showing up missing with suspicious suicide notes
-a priest requests Charlies help with a possessed house
We are getting to a point were some pretty shocking things are happening in each book. The more I get to know each character that gets introduced, the more I'm invested in all of their stories. It seems some things do get left open so that leads me to believe that they will pop back into the series in a later book. I'm completely hooked on this series and it seems to just get better and better. On to the next one...
OVERALL SERIES DESCRIPTION: Heroine, Charley Davidson, Private Investigator and Grim Reaper. She's a portal for the dead to pass through to heaven. Hero, Reyes Alexander Farrow, Son of Satan and portal to Hell. Since Charley can see and talk to the dead, she has helped her former cop father and current cop uncle solve cases. The main focus in each book are the cases Charley solves with the help of her best friend Cookie, her uncle and the dead victims. The side focus is the romance between Charley and Reyes and the impending war with the demons that is predicted.
Cases Charley have been tasked with in this book are:
-FBI agent Carlson asked for Charlie's help with an unsolved case of a family who was murdered at a camp. This leads to a bigger case that was never resolved in this book. I'm guessing it will get brought up again in another book. This is also the first time Charlie encounters the Hellhounds.
-bodies are being snatched from a cemetery
-people are showing up missing with suspicious suicide notes
-a priest requests Charlies help with a possessed house
We are getting to a point were some pretty shocking things are happening in each book. The more I get to know each character that gets introduced, the more I'm invested in all of their stories. It seems some things do get left open so that leads me to believe that they will pop back into the series in a later book. I'm completely hooked on this series and it seems to just get better and better. On to the next one...
OVERALL SERIES DESCRIPTION: Heroine, Charley Davidson, Private Investigator and Grim Reaper. She's a portal for the dead to pass through to heaven. Hero, Reyes Alexander Farrow, Son of Satan and portal to Hell. Since Charley can see and talk to the dead, she has helped her former cop father and current cop uncle solve cases. The main focus in each book are the cases Charley solves with the help of her best friend Cookie, her uncle and the dead victims. The side focus is the romance between Charley and Reyes and the impending war with the demons that is predicted.
October 28, 2014
Darynda Jones can lead me into temptation any day of the week! Seventh Grave delivers an assortment of memorable and vivid characters, the kind that keep speaking to you long after the book has ended. Charley and her entourage will surprise readers with witty banter and the unknown. Seventh Grave and No Body is never predictable, there's not one dull moment to be found in Charley's world. If you are a reader with a love for plot twists, Darynda Jones delivers time and time again. The main character's romance is palpable, cocoon-like, evoking daydreaming tendencies that transport you throughout the book. Seventh Grave and No Body will take you on a journey, one shrouded in a tantalizing mystery. I can not wait until the next book come May! This is a must read!
February 6, 2020
This is a 9/10 rating rounded up; I agree with other reviewers (see especially Sarah of the crustaceans on page one) that this installment is a big improvement over the last two or three, but there are still a few things that keep me from following my Goodreads friends all the way to an unalloyed five stars. For one, the subplot that the title refers to is never really resolved in spite of all the energy and risk Charley and crew invest in that, um, investigation.
More to the point, the various stories that run simultaneously through this novel just seem to jostle each other for attention (and the one I mentioned loses out) and never really link up. Perhaps that's in keeping with Charley's attention deficit disorder, which was in sharp focus two books ago; after all, this is her first-person narrative about her life. But Charley seems so healthy and lively this time around, and I think that's what's behind the big improvement--this may be the most fun I've had yet reading a Charley Davidson novel.
Still, this is something you just have to get used to--as Charley discovers ever newer and greater powers within herself, her real status and the world that's being built piece by piece across these seven installments are exciting and vague at the same time. I find myself saying both "wow!" and "what?!" to each new revelation.
Anyhow, installment #7 is clearly building up to something grand yet to come--can't fault it for doing its job, but don't look for resolution of, well, anything major.
Absolutely delightful: Beep!
More to the point, the various stories that run simultaneously through this novel just seem to jostle each other for attention (and the one I mentioned loses out) and never really link up. Perhaps that's in keeping with Charley's attention deficit disorder, which was in sharp focus two books ago; after all, this is her first-person narrative about her life. But Charley seems so healthy and lively this time around, and I think that's what's behind the big improvement--this may be the most fun I've had yet reading a Charley Davidson novel.
Still, this is something you just have to get used to--as Charley discovers ever newer and greater powers within herself, her real status and the world that's being built piece by piece across these seven installments are exciting and vague at the same time. I find myself saying both "wow!" and "what?!" to each new revelation.
Anyhow, installment #7 is clearly building up to something grand yet to come--can't fault it for doing its job, but don't look for resolution of, well, anything major.
Absolutely delightful: Beep!
January 1, 2015
2.666 stars
I understand now why people were rating this one lower than the rest. WAY too much going on even though it felt like NOTHING was going on, a ridiculous amount of repetition (say "affianced," ONE more time, Charley), and I felt beaten over the head with "I need to protect you more than ever, don't go off without me, Charley" from Reyes while wanting to beat IN Charley's head every time she jumped at the chance to go off by her own and put herself in danger.
Disappointing.
I understand now why people were rating this one lower than the rest. WAY too much going on even though it felt like NOTHING was going on, a ridiculous amount of repetition (say "affianced," ONE more time, Charley), and I felt beaten over the head with "I need to protect you more than ever, don't go off without me, Charley" from Reyes while wanting to beat IN Charley's head every time she jumped at the chance to go off by her own and put herself in danger.
Disappointing.
December 7, 2014
4.5 I might need some ritalin Stars
************No Spoilers***********
Charley often reminds me of the Dogs on UP
She is so ADHD that it she often goes on a tangent and can’t seem to take anything seriously. I love that about her! Her off the wall remarks are quick and quippy and quirky probably other Q words too.
This follows Charley as she juggles a mystery, a supernatural band of hellhounds out to kill her, a prophecy that she might end the word or save it, a new development named beep, and her man Reyes son of Satan. She has a lot of balls flying, good thing she seems to know what she is doing *cough, cough*.
Darynda Jones really knows how to pack a lot of humor into her books and this one is no exception. It had two of the funniest scenes I’ve read in the series so far, and I will never think of ‘Special Purpose’ the same again. The other thing I always enjoy in a Charley book are the title quotes in the chapters. They are always fun.
The plot and story of this one is maybe one of my favorites because it seems we are finally getting a few answers about the overall plot arc. Finding out more of what Charley is and what she is capable of doing. The prophecy might not be at all what we think and Charley is getting help in some unexpected places. And then there is Mr. Reyes Farrow. I was a little worried that or Son of Satan was getting soft, but he is back in true form in 7th Grave and no one should get in the way of him protecting Charley, not even Charley.
I think this is my second favorite in the series right behind book 5, and that one might win based solely on the use of Post Its, I love Post Its don’t judge.
There is another WTF ending that leaves you on the edge of course with what is in store for Charley next. And they still haven’t answered my most desired question….Who is Mr. Wong really?
That is the question I want to know. Is he the 13th warrior? Or is he something else all together? Much like how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop, The world may never know.
************No Spoilers***********
Charley often reminds me of the Dogs on UP
She is so ADHD that it she often goes on a tangent and can’t seem to take anything seriously. I love that about her! Her off the wall remarks are quick and quippy and quirky probably other Q words too.
She stopped riffling and leveled one of her infamous glowers on me. It rivaled my own infamous death stare and was a thing to behold, especially when her top lip twitched, as it did now. I’d have to add that to my death stare. I could twitch. No, wait, I could twerk. Different body part entirely.
This follows Charley as she juggles a mystery, a supernatural band of hellhounds out to kill her, a prophecy that she might end the word or save it, a new development named beep, and her man Reyes son of Satan. She has a lot of balls flying, good thing she seems to know what she is doing *cough, cough*.
Darynda Jones really knows how to pack a lot of humor into her books and this one is no exception. It had two of the funniest scenes I’ve read in the series so far, and I will never think of ‘Special Purpose’ the same again. The other thing I always enjoy in a Charley book are the title quotes in the chapters. They are always fun.
We are all searching for someone whose demons play well with ours. —BUMPER STICKER
I don’t think I get enough credit for the fact that I do all of this unmedicated.
If I’m upset, hold me and tell me how beautiful I am. If I growl, retreat to a safe distance and throw chocolate. —BEST. ADVICE. EVER.
The plot and story of this one is maybe one of my favorites because it seems we are finally getting a few answers about the overall plot arc. Finding out more of what Charley is and what she is capable of doing. The prophecy might not be at all what we think and Charley is getting help in some unexpected places. And then there is Mr. Reyes Farrow. I was a little worried that or Son of Satan was getting soft, but he is back in true form in 7th Grave and no one should get in the way of him protecting Charley, not even Charley.
“And I can lose you?” I asked, almost screaming at him.
He lowered his head and pinched the bridge of his nose with his thumb and index finger. Then he admitted what was probably his greatest fear. “I don’t know how to win. I don’t have the faintest idea of how to kill the Twelve. And when I saw your name on that wall.” His breath hitched in his chest. Then he focused his coffee-colored gaze on me. “If you die,” he said with a savage vehemence in his voice, “I will go straight to hell and kill every demon there. Or I’ll perish in the attempt.”
I think this is my second favorite in the series right behind book 5, and that one might win based solely on the use of Post Its, I love Post Its don’t judge.
There is another WTF ending that leaves you on the edge of course with what is in store for Charley next. And they still haven’t answered my most desired question….Who is Mr. Wong really?
“What you should be asking yourself,” he said, indicating Mr. Wong with a nod as the departed man hovered in my corner, “is why a being that ungodly powerful is hanging out in your apartment.”
That is the question I want to know. Is he the 13th warrior? Or is he something else all together? Much like how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop, The world may never know.
May 19, 2020
Is it popcorn supernatural sexytime or is it a trip down 'burque nostalgia lane?
Why can't we have both!? Okay, okay, we can have both.
And the trip is always more fun than the destination. Gimmie everything Chili please, even the sexytime, and I'll forgive the fact that the basic plot is just the increasing danger of Charley's father-in-law.
Hell hounds? Okay. No problem. I guess it's the requisite stepping stone before we get to the really good stuff. And I don't really count certain relationship milestones as the good stuff. It's almost always... ho-hum usual. Sorry, Reyes fans! This is getting old.
BUT all the supernatural and the quirky personalities? That's golden. :)
Why can't we have both!? Okay, okay, we can have both.
And the trip is always more fun than the destination. Gimmie everything Chili please, even the sexytime, and I'll forgive the fact that the basic plot is just the increasing danger of Charley's father-in-law.
Hell hounds? Okay. No problem. I guess it's the requisite stepping stone before we get to the really good stuff. And I don't really count certain relationship milestones as the good stuff. It's almost always... ho-hum usual. Sorry, Reyes fans! This is getting old.
BUT all the supernatural and the quirky personalities? That's golden. :)
November 20, 2014
This was a fun installment from a series that I've always enjoyed but has never been a favourite. I felt it was less exciting than the previous book or two and I almost completely lost interest around the middle. Then the action picked up a bit and the book was almost back to the normal 4-star level.
No idea why, but marriage and talk of babies make heroines and heroes mushy beyond recognition and plot developments too cheesy for my liking. So half a star is down for that.
No idea why, but marriage and talk of babies make heroines and heroes mushy beyond recognition and plot developments too cheesy for my liking. So half a star is down for that.
October 17, 2017
De vuelta al ruedo
Me preguntaba de que servía que en cada libro te estén recordando a los personajes tipo Reyes ese magnífico espécimen hijo de satán y bla bla bla oh si eso ya lo sé o Cook mi mejor amiga asistente y no sé qué más ajam eso también lo sé, Ángel un adolescente que murió a los 13 años con pinta de pandillero que ahora es mi empleado espía GRACIAS POR RECODARMELO ¬¬, exactamente esa era mi reacción al leer 6 libro seguidos de Charley.
Pero después dejado en stand by la saga por 10 meses, obviamente muchas cosas se me olvidaron y que Charley volviera presentar a los personajes me sirvió no en todos los casos por ejemplo a Reyes era innecesario COMO ALGUIEN PUEDE OLVIDARLO o sea Helloo pero si otros personajes del libro anterior o hechos que se me habían olvidado.
Aunque no es bueno dejar las series o sagas abandonadas por tanto tiempo creo que resultó que fue para bien porque mis neuronas se sobrecargaron y este lo disfrute un poco más.
Los casos siguen siendo lo más atractivo del libro un poco más que lo paranormal, Charley sigue en las misma a lo que a mi me parecía en los primeros libros una personalidad genial ahora se me hace demasiado y sobre todo tonta se mete en problemas por no escuchar a Reyes y luego pretende que la salve poniéndolo en peligro y ahora también a Osh que por cierto es mi nuevo favorito
Esperando que a Charley se le quite lo estúpida
Reyes me sigue encantando y espero más POV´s de él en los próximos libros
Me preguntaba de que servía que en cada libro te estén recordando a los personajes tipo Reyes ese magnífico espécimen hijo de satán y bla bla bla oh si eso ya lo sé o Cook mi mejor amiga asistente y no sé qué más ajam eso también lo sé, Ángel un adolescente que murió a los 13 años con pinta de pandillero que ahora es mi empleado espía GRACIAS POR RECODARMELO ¬¬, exactamente esa era mi reacción al leer 6 libro seguidos de Charley.
Pero después dejado en stand by la saga por 10 meses, obviamente muchas cosas se me olvidaron y que Charley volviera presentar a los personajes me sirvió no en todos los casos por ejemplo a Reyes era innecesario COMO ALGUIEN PUEDE OLVIDARLO o sea Helloo pero si otros personajes del libro anterior o hechos que se me habían olvidado.
Aunque no es bueno dejar las series o sagas abandonadas por tanto tiempo creo que resultó que fue para bien porque mis neuronas se sobrecargaron y este lo disfrute un poco más.
Los casos siguen siendo lo más atractivo del libro un poco más que lo paranormal, Charley sigue en las misma a lo que a mi me parecía en los primeros libros una personalidad genial ahora se me hace demasiado y sobre todo tonta se mete en problemas por no escuchar a Reyes y luego pretende que la salve poniéndolo en peligro y ahora también a Osh que por cierto es mi nuevo favorito
Esperando que a Charley se le quite lo estúpida
Reyes me sigue encantando y espero más POV´s de él en los próximos libros
June 21, 2024
Another knockout from Jones! I love this series so much, and this one didn't disappoint!
I do feel like this one focused more on the paranormal war that's coming, and less on the mystery. I actually found the mystery aspect to be lacking a little. The empty-grave-mystery can hardly be considered one, and the suicide-note-mystery didn't have the sort of build up other mysteries had in previous books.
However, I think that the other stuff made up for it... namely the whole Jessica situation, as well as the prophesies and hell hound problems. I also very much enjoyed Reyes in this one! Gah! That man... le sigh.
I also could have used more Quinton. However, there was a plethora of Osh, aka The Dealer, and you won't hear me complaining about that.
I'm getting so excited to see where this whole story is going! There are so many aspects, I can't wait to see how Jones ties everything together. I also am absolutely dying to see how Mr Wong fits into this whole scheme! If he doesn't play a pivotal role after all the build up in these books, I'll be disappointed.
Also, beware of the hospital scene and the ending, they're real tearjerkers.
I do feel like this one focused more on the paranormal war that's coming, and less on the mystery. I actually found the mystery aspect to be lacking a little. The empty-grave-mystery can hardly be considered one, and the suicide-note-mystery didn't have the sort of build up other mysteries had in previous books.
However, I think that the other stuff made up for it... namely the whole Jessica situation, as well as the prophesies and hell hound problems. I also very much enjoyed Reyes in this one! Gah! That man... le sigh.
I also could have used more Quinton. However, there was a plethora of Osh, aka The Dealer, and you won't hear me complaining about that.
I'm getting so excited to see where this whole story is going! There are so many aspects, I can't wait to see how Jones ties everything together. I also am absolutely dying to see how Mr Wong fits into this whole scheme! If he doesn't play a pivotal role after all the build up in these books, I'll be disappointed.
Also, beware of the hospital scene and the ending, they're real tearjerkers.
November 30, 2018
Holy crap! With each book things amp up but by the end of this one, it feels like the world is in danger of exploding. I’m left wide eyed and a little worried about Charley and her abilities. There is just so much revealed here in little increments but with huge repercussions. I keep swearing I’m going to take a break from this series but I absolutely cannot. I am totally invested in this story and how it’s all going to play out. Be prepared dear readers. This one is going to blow you away!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heroine POV with one bonus chapter of the hero’s
Safe
Triggers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heroine POV with one bonus chapter of the hero’s
Safe
Triggers
August 11, 2015
I'm done with this series. It's just not what I used to love about it. This book was just the last straw I needed to finally admit it and call quits.
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