grim reaper

Although technically centered on a triple murder investigation, Darynda Jones’ debut novel, First Grave on the Right, is more paranormal romance than mystery. The heroine is an upbeat take on a Grim Reaper. Charley Davidson has the ability to see and hear spirits not quite ready for the other side. With the possible exception of the Devil himself, Charley’s spirits are helpful folks (or at least they try to be) who pass through her on the way to the light. But, it’s the spirit invading her dreams that she would like to spend quality time with.

Charley herself is a sarcastic, likable heroine

Croak is a coming-of-age, teen identity, death-is-my-life book.  Lex is 16 and headed for expulsion from school. Her parents are trying to understand and help her, but Lex has become an unmitigated brat and terror. As a last resort, they ship her off to her uncle for the summer, hoping that country life will straighten her out.

It becomes immediately obvious that Lex’s parents have no idea what her uncle really does. He is a Grim Reaper and plans to bring Lex into the death business. What does that mean? The explanation comes out fairly early on in the story. In addition to coming to terms