Wow, not my usual read but so glad I did. Loved it! Once I started reading I could not stop until I reached the end. And at that point I was sad when I reached the last page I just wanted the novel to keep on going. I love Charley. Once again this novel had it all, mystery, action, romance and laugh out loud moments. I love the way this author writes her dialogue and banter. I am finding I try not to read in public areas because sometimes I burst out laughing uncontrollably. It's a little embarrassing, but so worth it. I loved it and can't wait to jump into her next novel. .

Reyes really out does himself and I just fell a lot more in love with these characters!
“How would you like your eggs?"
I tried. I really did. But I glanced at his crotch and it came out anyway. "Fertilized?”
― Darynda Jones, Fifth Grave Past the Light
“Captain," I said, letting the surprise I felt filter into my voice. It was weird how every time I said the word captain, I wanted to tack on a Jack Sparrow at the end.”
― Darynda Jones, Fifth Grave Past the Light

Five Stars: Darynda delivers another winner!
Charley hears a strange scratching noise under her bed. She finally gathers her nerve, takes a peek and finds a small, pixie of a girl who is frightened, dirty and dead. Before she knows it, her entire apartment is filled with terrified, filthy dead women who all appeared to have been murdered. Charley must get to the bottom of this haunting immediately. Aside from all the dead women, Charley is trying to determine who is responsible for the arson around the city. Strangely, all the burned properties have a connection to Reyes. Garrett isn't happy with her since his trip to Hell, and her latest client almost shot Cookie. There is never a dull moment in the life of Charley Davidson. Can Charley come through and clean things up once again?
What I Liked:
*Darynda never fails to write a book that will make me laugh and smirk. Charley's one of a kind brand of humor shines through again in this latest installment. There is plenty of snark and witty banter that will be sure to make you smile as you head on yet another misadventure with the one and only Charley Davidson, grim reaper, and company. There is rarely a dull moment in this one!
*I loved how all the story lines came together at the end of this one. Ms. Jones skillfully lays down several story threads which at first do not seem to be related, but by the end they weave together masterfully to a rather shocking finish. I always enjoy the numerous plots in these books.
*The romance between Charley and Reyes is moving to another level and I must warn you, it is scorching hot this time around. The pair seems to be done with dancing around, avoiding their obvious attraction. There are some steamy scenes in this one that may make the more prudish readers blush. If you like plenty of smexy scenes with lots of sizzle, you should enjoy this outing.
*Finally this time around, Garrett Swopes (who I think happens to be pretty darn sexy himself) delivers some exciting and interesting information regarding Charley. It seems she is indeed headed to do something big and important in a big battle to save the world. I was most curious about the entourage that she supposedly needs, and I am eager to see who slips into those spots!
*Charley seems to finally be growing a bit and learning to use her powers, granted she still gets her butt into a heap of trouble, but she is getting there. I am still waiting for the day she will stand up and kick some ass.
And The Not So Much:
*The ending was a shocker! Not a cliffhanger but it is a jaw dropping surprise that left me practically screaming. Darynda you can't end it on that note.
*As I mentioned, Charley still hasn't gotten to the point where she can totally stand up for herself, and it is getting a bit frustrating that she still ends up in horrific situations where she gets bruised and beaten. This time around is no exception. I want Charley to kick ass!
*I was eager to learn more about what was going on with Charley's dad, but there are no answers and he doesn't even hardly make an appearance, and there is no explanation for his restored health.
I mentioned this last review, but I am still waiting for Uncle Bob and Cookie to get together, or for Cookie to get a man, but she is still left hanging and hoping.
*What was the deal with the naked guy ghost? He makes an early appearance and then he fades away and is forgotten.
*Why was Garrett glaring at Mr. Wong?

Fifth Grave Past the Light is another terrific installment to the ever funny Charley Davidson Series. If you are in the mood for a hilarious, paranormal read with grim reapers, ghosts and the ever so sexy son of Satan you need to read this series. You must read it anyway because it is one of the best adult paranormal series out these days. Charley's snarky humor will make you laugh and the story lines are always entertaining. Just do yourself a favor and get these books!
Favorite Quotations:
"Our relationship was a lot like underwear in a dryer without a static control sheet. One minute we were floating through life, buoyant and carefree. The next we were attached at the crotch."
"Coffee was that place where the sun comes up over the horizon and lights the heavens in a burst of vibrant colors."
"Freaking men. It didn't matter what the problem was, they saw only three solutions to it: food, sex, war."
"I don't expect everything to be handed to me. Just set it down wherever. ---t-shirt."

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