Step into the vibrant, supernatural streets of Albuquerque, where Charley Davidson, a sassy private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper, juggles crime-solving with her otherworldly duties! Created by Darynda Jones, this New York Times bestselling series blends paranormal romance, crime thriller suspense, and laugh-out-loud humor. With her coffee obsession and sharp wit, Charley navigates mysteries involving ghosts, demons, and a smoldering son of Satan, captivating readers with every twist.
Whether you’re drawn to supernatural shenanigans or heart-pounding romance, Charley’s world offers an irresistible mix of chills, thrills, and charm. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, and lasting allure of this beloved series!
How Charley Davidson Began
Darynda Jones, a New Mexico native, crafted the Charley Davidson series from a spark of inspiration while working as a sign language interpreter. The idea for Charley—a 27-year-old PI who doubles as the Grim Reaper—emerged one morning as Jones lay in bed, musing about a character who could see dead people. Initially named Harley Davidson, the protagonist became Charley after a publishing deal with St. Martin’s Press. Jones’ manuscript for First Grave on the Right won the 2009 Golden Heart Award, launching a 13-book saga that blends humor, romance, and suspense.
Jones drew from her Albuquerque roots to ground the series in a vivid, relatable setting. Her knack for storytelling, honed since childhood, infuses Charley’s adventures with heart and wit, making the series a standout in paranormal fiction.
The Heart of Charley Davidson
The series kicks off with First Grave on the Right (2011), where Charley uses her ability to communicate with the dead to solve murders, all while tangled in steamy dreams about a mysterious entity named Reyes Farrow. In Second Grave on the Left (2011), Charley tracks a missing woman while grappling with Reyes’ supernatural secrets. Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet (2012) sees her confronting an arsonist in Albuquerque, with Reyes’ absence complicating her love life. The series culminates in Summoned to Thirteenth Grave (2019), wrapping up Charley’s epic journey with high-stakes battles and emotional resolutions.
Themes of love, loyalty, and justice weave through the series, set against Albuquerque’s sun-soaked backdrop. Charley’s sarcasm and compassion make her relatable, while the blend of paranormal elements—ghosts, demons, and portals to heaven and hell—keeps the stakes high. Jones’ witty dialogue and fast-paced plots, often compared to Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series, create a unique “paranormal noir” vibe that’s both thrilling and hilarious.
The series’ Albuquerque setting adds authenticity, with local landmarks and cultural nods grounding the supernatural chaos. Fans adore the balance of steamy romance, particularly Charley’s chemistry with Reyes, and the quirky supporting cast, like her best friend Cookie and ghostly sidekicks.
Why Charley Davidson Resonates
The Charley Davidson series has left a mark on paranormal romance and urban fantasy, earning a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Jones’ awards, including a RITA for First Grave on the Right, highlight her skill in crafting compelling narratives. Readers praise the series for its humor and heart, with many devouring all 13 books for Charley’s bold personality and the emotional depth of her relationships.
Its influence extends to inspiring readers to explore similar genres, blending mystery and the supernatural. Charley’s legacy endures through her relatable struggles and Jones’ ability to make the extraordinary feel personal, ensuring the series remains a fan favorite years after its conclusion.
- Publication Years: 2011–2019
- Number of Books: 13 novels, plus novellas
- Awards: RITA Award (2012), Golden Heart (2009), Daphne du Maurier
- Setting: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Grab First Grave on the Right and dive into Charley Davidson’s wild, witty world of paranormal suspense today!