The Life and Death of Jorja Graham by Brynn Myers

Increasing suspense as you wait for the ghosts and demons to manifest that were introduced in the beginning of the book. Moves quickly.
I wasn't sure he really loved her but in the end was convinced by actions and support of other characters.
A sad and shocking ending in my opinion. I guess I should have realized it was going to happen. I hate cliff hangers. This is a book that stands and ends alone so it's not a cliff hanger. But I will say I'm glad I've already purchased the second of the set so I can immediately (I hope) get the closure and conclusion that I need. ( )

Brynn Myers certainly brought the south to life in this story set in Savannah, GA. From Southern mannerisms to sprawling estates to sweet tea and fried chicken, I was reminded of all the reasons I love being from the South. I have to travel to Savannah a couple of times for work this year, and this book has convinced me to stay in a bed-and-breakfast and take a tour of some southern mansions. I can't wait.

However, while I loved the world building of the South, I felt a disconnect with the story. I think it was because Jorja, our heroine, served as a narrator for the most part and told us her story instead of making me feel a part of it. I am a reader that likes to envision myself as the main character, so the first person narration style just didn't work for me. Readers who like to be "told" a story will probably enjoy this much more than me. I hope that makes sense, I'm not sure how else to describe it.

Other than that, I liked all of the characters and following along with their day-to-day lives. The story meandered along at a pace that reminds you that things move much slower in the South. The relationship between Jorja and her aunts was sweet and usually involved loads of food. It reminded me of going to my memaw's house on Sunday afternoon when the table would be covered with fried chicken, cornbread, baked beans, potato salad and every other southern food you could think of. The relationship between Jorja and Corbin was a bit of instalove, despite their rough beginnings. I liked Corbin well enough, but his character wasn't really developed in the story. We don't know much about him until the very end.

Speaking of which, this really doesn't become a paranormal read until about the last 25% of the book. That is very different from most paranormals I've read where you seem to be immersed in the paranormal activity from very early on. I don't know if I liked it or not... I have mixed feelings. It was almost like the demonic aspects did not fit in with the lazy southern flow of the book. So when they started happening, it all seemed a little rushed. That could be a good set up for the rest of the series, so I will definitely continue reading to see how things play out.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 3 stars / 2 flames. ( )