#Review: The Life & Death of Jorja Graham by Brynn Myers - 5 Wine Glasses

Title: THE LIFE & DEATH OF JORJA GRAHAM
Series: Jorja Graham #1
Author: Brynn Myers
Format: Paperback, 238 Pages
Published: Amber Leaf Publishing (January 20, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0615949738
ISBN-13: 978-0615949734
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Reviewer: Linda
Source: Library
Rating: 5 out of 5 Wine Glasses

All my life I've been referred to as the quintessential southern bell: blonde, stunningly beautiful, and overtly enchanting, but that was only the face I shared with the world; no one ever knew the hell I truly endured.

After returning to Savannah, I had everything I ever wanted: a new home, a handsome suitor, and the job of my dreams as an antique dealer. Little did I know that the choice to move on with my life would be the last decision I’d ever make.

My name is Jorja Graham and my story is proof that not every romance has a happy ending.

Linda's Thoughts:
"Maybe next time you'll take me up on dinner."
"I doubt it, Mr. Holbrook. I'm pretty sure hell will freeze over first."
Again he smiled. "Well, that may be happening sooner than you think, my dear."

THE LIFE & DEATH OF JORJA GRAHAM by Brynn Myers is unlike anything I've ever read. I started reading it one evening this past week and was mesmerized from the very beginning. Sleep was out of the question until I'd read the very last word. It's FABULOUS and I've not been able to stop thinking about it even though I've now finished reading the duo logy.

As the blurb states, this novel does not have a happy ending; but, it's not an unhappy ending as there's a clear path to an HEA in the second book which I fortuitously already had on my nightstand (and which I've now also inhaled).Actually, I would consider these two books as one with two parts. Neither works well as a standalone. I can assure you without reservation that you will want to read THE ECHOED LIFE OF JORJA GRAHAM immediately after finishing the first book, so do yourself a favor and pick them both up at the same time.

THE LIFE & DEATH OF JORJA GRAHAM is a witty, very imaginative southern paranormal urban fantasy read with a sexy demonic hero. It's the story of human Jorja Graham and enigmatic Corbin Holbrook, who just happens to be a swoon worthy hot prince of hell. The story mixed a Southern feel with dark paranormal. Corbin was the epitome of a dark tortured hero. He was originally an arrogant, pompous alpha but quickly morphed into a Casanova when he was snared by Jorja's charm. Even though Jorja had a difficult childhood, she did not let it define her. She was self-reliant and self-assured, feisty, tenacious and beautiful. Corbin's and Jorja's interactions were liberally spiced by witty banter and never dull.

The supporting cast was stellar. I loved Cat and her mysterious persona. Jorja's aunts were hoots. They run Generation Antiques with Jorja.

As the story begins, art and history aficionado Jorja is in the process of closing one chapter in her life as she says goodbye and good riddance to her mother and to her childhood home filled with unhappy memories, As she prepares to return to her life in Savannah surrounded by her kitty cat, her best friend, Cat, and her two favorite aunts, her trip is interrupted by an phone call from the imperious new owner of the Rhyland estate, which the state has finally released from probate. The mansion is one of the most coveted in Savannah as it was one of the few grand homes spared when General Sherman's troops raided Savannah during the Civil War and it possesses a classic antebellum architecture reminiscent of the fabled Twelve Oaks mansion in 'Gone with the Wind.' Jorja has been enthralled by the property for as long as she could remember and it is truly a dream come true to have the closure of that estate drop into her lap at this time. However, behind the property's classic architecture, dark secrets reside. The estate previously belonged to Rhetta Ryland, rumored to be a witch who practiced the dark arts.

Following please find a few of my favorite non-spoiler quotes from this read:

"Girls, you listen to every word your mamma is saying, cause the only way you'll ever get a better piece of chicken is if you're a rooster."
---

He leaned forward and kissed me like he did last night, no hesitation, just pure passion. I should've cared that we were in a room full of contractors but as I savored his lips, I didn't give a damn where we were.
"Are you hungry?"
"For dinner?" I grinned.
He exhaled a chuckle before he whispered in my ear. "Dinner first and then I'll have you for dessert."
---

"Do you have any idea how maddening it's been envisioning you in the lingerie that matches those shoes?"...
"Corbin, I'm serious."
"I'm sure you are but that is my final offer. Take it or leave it and if you chose the latter, I will let this home sit empty and fall into disrepair until you finally come around."
I closed my eyes and sighed, "That's really not fair."
"Anything is fair when I'm trying my level best to get you to fall in love with me...."
I kissed him gently on the lips and walked away from him but just as I reached the hall, I turned back to see him watching me. "Oh, and if we're NOT playing fair, then maybe you should know I'm not wearing any underwear."

I'm so glad that I discovered this author at the Coastal Magic Convention as I was definitely missing out before her books came into my life. I've already resolved to read all of this author's books SOON! I can honestly say I was never tempted even for a second to glance at the clock while reading this. It's romantic and suspenseful. As it was dark outside, I kept the lights on while reading this as some scenes were downright creepy. Expect a myriad of surprising twists and unexpected turns herein. I highly recommend Brynn Myers' Jorja Graham duo logy to anyone who enjoys excellently plotted, perfectly paced paranormal romances with dark mythological overtones.


Suggested Reading Order: 
The Life & Death of Jorja Graham (Book #1)
The Echoed Life of Jorja Graham (Book #2)