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Grave Talker #2

Dead and Gone

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There are few things worse than being on the Arcane Bureau of Investigation’s naughty list.

To keep herself out of hot water, Darby Adler has made a deal with the devil—using her skills as a grave talker to help the ABI solve some very cold cases.

But there is something mighty amiss in this task—especially when quite a few of these cases lead Darby right back to her hometown of Haunted Peak and the secrets buried there.

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 23, 2021

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About the author

Annie Anderson

42 books2,020 followers
Annie Anderson is the author of the international bestselling Rogue Ethereal series. A United States Air Force veteran, Annie pens fast-paced Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy novels filled with strong, snarky heroines and a boatload of magic. When she takes a break from writing, she can be found binge-watching The Magicians, flirting with her husband, wrangling children, or bribing her cantankerous dogs to go on a walk.

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5 stars
1,497 (48%)
4 stars
1,072 (34%)
3 stars
433 (14%)
2 stars
62 (2%)
1 star
13 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
Profile Image for Mlpmom (Book Reviewer).
3,061 reviews392 followers
April 22, 2021
I really enjoy this series, it's fun and different and I love all the characters. I will however say, there are a LOT of f-bombs. Like one or five to. A. Page. That's excessive and sort of distracts from the story line.
Profile Image for julia ☆ [owls reads].
1,771 reviews374 followers
January 13, 2022
I would like to congratulate Annie Anderson on writing a character (Mariana) I despise SO MUCH that I wish she died a horrible and terrible death :D

Dead and Gone was such a fun read, personally, and I enjoyed it way more than the previous book. I loved how the world-building continued to expand here and the little details about Darby's powers and her family line. One of the main conflicts set up here was so intriguing and I really can't wait to see how it's going to develop throughout the series. Also, special mention to the J and Jimmy background romance <3 I do not care at all about Bishop, though.
Profile Image for Shirley.
900 reviews227 followers
February 23, 2021
Original review

This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Annie Anderson!

Dead and Gone is the second book in the Grave Talker series and continues the story of Darby and her friends.

Annie Anderson is one of my favourite Fantasy authors so there’s no surprise that I loved reading Dead and Gone. The Grave Talker series is about a strong female character set in an interesting world with supernatural creatures, what more does a bookworm want?! Dead and Gone was such a good book and I enjoyed every bit of it. I’m already looking forward to the sequel!

The moment I started reading Dead and Gone, I was so excited to read about Darby again. Annie Anderson always creates these amazing heroines and I cannot get enough of them and their stories. Darby was so funny in this book, there were some moments that made me laugh out loud. You get to know some more about her family as well as some bits about her (supernatural) friends. I’m really interested in Bishop’s story so let’s hope book three tells us more about his past!

I finished Dead and Gone way too fast… I wish it was longer so I could read more about Darby and her friends. I really loved getting to know the characters a bit better and this book was so addictive. I really wanted to know what was going to happen and I couldn’t put this book down. I’m really looking forward to learning more about X is and hopefully seeing some more action between Darby and Bishop!

Profile Image for Beverly Laude.
1,939 reviews33 followers
February 10, 2021
"My father was the Angel of Death." So begins this second book in the Grave Talker series. Darby Adler has just gotten out of prison after serving a nine month sentence. Why was she in prison? Because she made a deal to bring her father back to life. She is slowly learning more than she ever wanted to know about her parentage. And, there is a spark between her and Bishop La Roux, a death mage with unknown powers.

Annie Anderson is one of my favorite authors in this genre. Her characters are well-developed and the story is well-written. Darby is another snarky, kickass, take no prisoners woman who has definite Mommy issues. But, anyone would have issues with a mother like hers!

The book is full of magic, mythology, vampires, oracles and a handsome elf or two. The story is fast paced and totally awesome and I can't wait to see what happens next with Darby and her friends. I was given the chance to read an ARC of this book through Booksprouts and chose to review it.
Profile Image for Carla  Moreira .
365 reviews
March 26, 2021
Dead Funny!

I really LOVE Darby... and J.....and Bishop.... okokok I love all of the characters!! I originally listened to the first book on Audio and fell in love with Darby so couldn't wait for this second book. And boy let me tell you it didn't disappoint.
This time around I started with first reading the book ( so bloody funny)and then got my hands on the Audio and that was a hoot as well!
Darby's snarky attitude drips off the pages and left me snorting out loud at her comments. I found it extra entertaining to listen to! The Narrator is so spot on and executes her Sass perfectly! As for the story... It was super entertaining, I'd rather not spoil the plot, but its fast paced and action packed. There is a bit of romance too. My only real complaint is I want more 😁! I really cant wait to get my hands on the next one.
Profile Image for Ani Conda.
104 reviews5 followers
February 11, 2021
The moment I began reading everything from the first book came flooring back and I was immediately swept back into the world of Darby Adler. Dead and Gone beautifully follows on from the first book, immediately leaning on those heart strings and inciting some anger and Darby’s situation.

Right alongside her you feel the frustration of unanswered questions. For every answer Darby gets she gains another mystery. Meeting some more of the arcaner and seeing how they interact with Darby makes you appreciate the character more. Seeing how strong she is but how vulnerable she can be just has you falling harder for her, you can’t help longing for a happy ending or even just a moment of respite from the crazy for her. Between her sassy friends and powerful family Darby is always on her toes and thoroughly grounded.

Annie Anderson had already got me hooked but with this new instalment I have once again found myself immersed in a new world of possibilities and intrigue. I just didn’t want it to end, my book hangover is going to be a doozy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rhiannon Chillingworth.
788 reviews186 followers
December 27, 2021
Another 3.75, I guess.

I don't know what it is about this series that is missing to make it truly good...

The books themselves feel really short, even though my kindle tells me they're abouf 270 pages. I guess there's just not quite enough depth in the characterisation, maybe?

They are quick, easy reads, though, and I think I'm probably going straight on to book 3, so they must be doing something right!
Profile Image for M Will.
795 reviews8 followers
February 12, 2021
Darby Adler's life got complicated at the end of book 1 in this series. Book two starts off with a bang. Darby is picking up the pieces, living with guilt and surrounded by spirits. Annie does not hold punches and once again Darby and her band of ABI friends and other supernatural beings are thrust into the middle of an absolute disaster. The story moves quickly, is packed with action and excitement as well as the mystery of who is behind all of these dastardly deeds. Who is putting the supernatural world in danger? Read and find out.

The story is absolutely marvelous and in grand tradition, I have to somehow patiently wait for the next installment to see what happens next. Annie writes characters that you cannot help but root and cheer for as the story progresses. Fabulous series. Excellent book.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. If you want a story set in a fantastic world to make you forget your woes, pick up this book (after reading book one of course). You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Heather.
28 reviews
February 12, 2021
Dead and Gone is even better than Dead to Me was. Darby is still just as full of sass and badassery as before, but you get to see her begin to grow in her powers and her relationships. I’m waiting on pins and needles for Dead Calm to be released!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gale Albright.
2,454 reviews17 followers
March 2, 2021
This author is completely awesome. The talent she displays leaves me awed in more ways than one. The main characters make you laugh, cry and scream at times. To me those responses are all completely necessary in a five star book. This book literally has it all...ghosts, ghouls, watches, vamps and shifters. I love paranormal can you tell?!
February 24, 2021
Oh Annie

You have done it again. I read this one in less than 24 hours wanting to beg for more! Captivating!
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews153 followers
February 15, 2021
5 Cranky Stars


Is it possible to love Darby and Bishop anymore than I did in the previous book? Book one was a lot of character and world building but book two tossed us right into the action and I loved it. I loved seeing Darby’s power and how she wields it with the correct tutelage, and she is a force. Annie Anderson always writes her female leads with such power and they are kick butt, but her male leads are no slouch. Bishop you sexy death mage you rocked my world this time. The way he stepped in to win over Darby and stand by her side. My man wasn’t taking no for an answer.


Darby Is back in the real world after striking her deal at the end of book one. She realizes her mom is even more of a horrible person than we thought. Darby learns all about why her mother did to her what she did, but she also learned more about her father. No not the one who raised her but the real one. Among all this and trying to just catch a breath she’s figuring out if she has time for dating. She likes Bishop but can she really fit it in when her mother is holding so much over her head. Her life comes to a boiling point and she is tossed yet again amidst a battle that she is unprepared for.


Oh her mom!! I wanted Darby to unleash on her then Hildy and then let Bishop have his way with her too. She was a you know what times ten. I felt Darby was finally accepting how powerful she really is and accepting of Hildy’s help despite being mad at him. I liked that everyone banned together to fight this battle with her it proved she does have a family outside of her father. I just love this series and this one was another winner.
Profile Image for Anne.
113 reviews5 followers
October 10, 2021
I am not squeamish when it comes to cussing; I even do quite a bit of it myself. However, I found the sheer amount of cussing distracting. I actually have known people who speak like that, so it is not outside the realm of reality, but I always wince when I am around them. I find that the cuss word loses power, and when used in a truly bad situation, does not have the whammy necessary to imbue the angst or tension required. Plus, don't we have a vast database of words at our disposal in the English language? So, yeah, I found the cussing distracting.

I will not be continuing with this series also because of the pitfalls this genre sometimes falls into. Not only is the heroine special, she is the Most Special ever. And with each book, the situations she gets into ramps up, become more death-defying, and she ends up being bounced from one massively dangerous situation to another, like a pinball going up against evil flippers. I already think the level is crazy high, and we are only at book 2. It takes me out of the story too much.

My last thing is the world-building. To find that people with magic can live thousands of years? And so many people are part of the arcane world? The logical person in me says 'Wouldn't we be even more over-crowded on this planet than we already are?'.

I find these are too many bad beats for me to continue. Taking a step back, this feels much more an action-driven series rather than character-driven one. I do like good action, but some introspection along the way helps steady the journey. If action is for you, then this series is for you.
Profile Image for Ashlee Olson.
352 reviews8 followers
February 10, 2021
This is book two and needs to be read in order. I also recommend Night Watch which corresponds with this world and has cross overs. Another amazing series by this author!

I thought the first book was absolutely amazing but the second book is equally amazing. This series is absolutely amazing. I’m so glad I found this author!

Book two starts about 9 months after book one. We find Darby when she’s being released out of ABI custody. And it’s no stop action after that. Darby is still her sarcastic, independent, fierce self. Agent La Roux is back and more of a teddy bear than ever. His protectiveness over Darby is sweet and pulls at your heartstrings. He’s still bada** and we see more of that on this book. J, Sarina, Hildy, Jimmy, and her dad are back and better than ever! Oh, did I mention her mom too! We get to meet more supernaturals but also get a few from book one. This book literally has it all! Sweet tender moments, epic family feuds like no other, laugh out loud moments, and fights that leaving you asking what just happened. Murder, epic fights to the death, romance, a secret villain who nobody knows, and so much more. What’s not to love?!

And action packed story from the get go that is written fabulously! Written in a way that flows so amazingly well that I absolutely couldn’t put it. This author definitely knows what she is doing!

5 ⭐️’s all the way!!
Profile Image for Tonya.
138 reviews3 followers
February 10, 2021
Darby Adler is my spirit personified on the pages of a book. Her hangry attitude and love of coffee scream to my soul. She is so kind in ways that she doesn't show and her absolute love for the people around her. Don't get me wrong she isn't someone to mess with and she's just learning the scope of her powers. I cannot wait to see this character develop.
Now let's discuss Bishop. Oh he's got a story that I am dieing to learn and the way he has Darby's back swoon. Is this a fated mate scenario? I hope so because well who doesn't love that? He can wield death magic he's hot as sin and he truly wants to do what's right. I love him.
I certainly hope this review makes you want to read this series and that you love it as much as I do

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Courtney Mae.
Author 1 book4 followers
February 11, 2021
Annie has done it again!

This book is a definite must-read! I love Darby and the other characters in the book. This book is action-packed and will keep you on your toes while you watch Darby navigate the different obstacles that she faces. She is a strong woman who cares for others fiercely and you will get to see more of this side of her throughout the whole book. This book is a new favorite of mine. It is a page-turner that you will not want to put down. If you have not read the first book in the series yet, you should start there it is another amazing book. Highly recommend you grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Erin.
561 reviews23 followers
February 26, 2021
Darby and the gang are back again with another incredible adventure! Each and every one of Anderson’s books is a thrill ride and this was no different. From start to finish I was completely mesmerized.
After months in an ABI cell, Darby is finally free to get back to her life. Unfortunately, getting back to the normal day to day life she’s used to isn’t a possibility. Evil is closing in and it seems Darby is in the crosshairs. I love seeing Darby and her friends fighting together. Each character brings so much to group, their dynamics and the way they work together is amazing. In addition to the action and adventure, we see the vulnerability of these characters as well as some sweet and emotional moments. I can’t get enough of this series and I look forward to what comes next!
Profile Image for Jeannie Glanville .
136 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2021
Hot Death Mage, Vampires, poltergeist, and feisty female supernatural cop....what's not to love?

And Annie again proves why she skyrocketed to the top of my most beloved authors list! Intrigue abounds in this book, magic kicks ass and mythology gets twisted and re-imagined. Feisty heroine cop with a building sexual tension with her ABI agent partner/protector that makes me close my eyes and sigh in delight yet scream in frustration as it always gets interrupted! What a killer ride this book was, all the way to the cliffhanger end. My only complaint is that it ended!! Honestly, I have got to quit reading her books the moment they are released because waiting for the next installment is torture!
Profile Image for Dayzee.
868 reviews11 followers
February 15, 2021
Loved it!!! Book two was even better!!! The friendships, the mystery, and the events that unfold after book one sets the tone for this one and wowzers!!!! It was crazy good!! Darby is a force to reckon with and even she has no clue the extent of her powers. Here is the kick: she dont even want it! She prefers tacos and coffee .. and maybe a boyfriend while shes at it! *cough* Bishop*cough*. Those two were adorable!!!! Darbys Awkwardness and Bishop sexiness was perfect. I love her so much! down to earth, and gives her all to those she loves! Even ungrateful vamps occasionally. She thankfully gets some answers to her family history, biological parents and maybe some A Hole sibling. Game On brother. Game on. Cant wait for the next book!!!

1,656 reviews7 followers
February 21, 2021
Darby is over all the secrets kept around her, and now her fate seems to be twind with the Arcane Bureau of Investigation (ABI). Will they let her continue to investigate things? Or will the secret around Darby stop her from doing what she loves? Can Bishop help her? I loved this action filled installment of Darby's adventures, the tricky characters she has to deal with, her love interest (Bishop) and of course I still loved Hildy (although this Ghost doesn't always do what he should).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,147 reviews12 followers
March 2, 2021
Darby and her pals are amazing. The characters are very well developed and the story is so captivating that it drew me in and kept me turning pages after midnight. I finished this one in a day and now I am ready for number three. In this series, one book is even more exciting than the first. You definitely should read this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Caroline Doig.
5,366 reviews46 followers
March 14, 2021
I’m loving this series and this is book 2 in the Grave Talker and I can’t wait to read book 3. Sorry guys I’m not going to give any spoilers but know that this series is worth reading, all I can say without giving anything away is that there are plenty of chuckle worthy moments and Darby is a fantastic character there’s also plenty of action and adventure and so much more to keep you entertained and turning the pages. I loved this story it’s a fantastic read and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
Profile Image for Megan.
40 reviews
March 5, 2024
There was enough intrigue about the main character in the first book (and decent enough writing even if I had some issues) to pull me into the second book.

This one definitely pulled me in further. I grew to like Darby more and more.

Essentially, if you are looking for pretty easy reading, escapism, fantasy, and a female hero who makes some choices you feel you hope you’d make in similar circumstances, this is a great series.
Profile Image for Suzanne Giorgione.
488 reviews22 followers
February 10, 2021
Darby is back with her smart mouth and kick a$$ attitude!! Buckle up for a crazy ride full of action and wild supernatural adventure! With the help of her favorite people, Darby tries to solve some old cases and find answers. As usual Annie is so descriptive while spinning her tale that it's almost like you are there seeing all the colorful characters and action you are reading about. Cannot wait for the next installment of this wonderful series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 19 books117 followers
February 12, 2021
Dead and Gone (Grave Talker #2)
by Annie Anderson

***5 stars***

Does Darby ever get a minute to just breathe before the next earthly meltdown? No? I didn't think so!

With Bishop and Hildy by her side, along with a few other peeps from their gang of awesomeness, they're on the make to save their vampy friends from total destruction. Can I just say how much I love Mags and Ingrid? Literally...THE BEST!

Darby's dear old momma is back to stink up the place with her evil shenanigans, and let me tell ya, I never wanted to throat punch a woman so badly before...maybe even add some barbed wire for pure enjoyment!

The chaos continues and it's another epic ride! A definite must read from Annie, then again, I'd read anything she wrote.



872 reviews5 followers
February 18, 2021
I absolutly love the book. Good characters with interesting personalities and sets of skills. Love main character. Great reality and background of paranormal creatures hidden society. Great plot full of action and emotions flying high. I am waiting for another one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
959 reviews
February 24, 2021
Great second book in the series

We learn more about Darby’s power and heritage I. The second book in the series and also who the mastermind behind the chaos is although not how to find him. Darby is strengthening her ties to her allies so hopefully she will have enough help when the big bad comes.
7 reviews
February 26, 2021
Darby is a great character and really starting to learn her way around her powers. While she would rather be normal, she is learning to talk to those who have passed on. Her growing relationships are a wonder as well ! Full of humor, excitement, and very well written, I could not put the book down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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