Obsidian Curse

Stacy Justice #6

by Barbra Annino

TOP 10 AMAZON BESTSELLER Reporter Stacy Justice has finally stopped resisting who she really is--a powerfully gifted witch. And now that the Council has appointed her Seeker of Justice, she feels stronger and more attuned to her magic than ever before.But Samhain--the night when the veil between the worlds thins--is approaching and something strange is brewing. First, a fairy with a sweet tooth appears in town unexpectedly. Then, a mysterious stranger shows up at Stacy's newspaper, seeking info for a true crime exposé he claims to be writing. But most disturbing of all, a bloodthirsty, sexy demon has escaped the Otherworld, determined to invoke a curse that has plagued Stacy's family for generations. Fulfilling her role as Seeker and finding out how all these pieces fit together may tear her relationship with her boyfriend apart. But if she doesn't find answers soon, her love life won't be the only thing in danger.This fifth book in the Stacy Justice series offers more of the dazzling magic and heart-stopping thrills that have left readers spellbound.

Genres: Mystery, Paranormal, Fantasy, Witches, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Cozy Mystery

321 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 13, 2014

About the author

Barbra Annino writes about strong women with a flair for humor and a penchant for trouble. Her bestselling Stacy Justice Mysteries books have hit the top ten in the Amazon charts multiple times, with Opal Fire claiming the #1 slot in the entire store. Check out her Everafter series if you like grown up fairy tales, and Fury Rising for a steamy urban fantasy. Sign up for freebies, exclusive content, release dates, and fun stuff at www.authorbarbraannino.com

Reviews

[Amy L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I continue to greatly enjoy this series. The characters are well formed and interesting. The author must either be a witch, have done a lot of research, or have an amazing imagination to make the witchiness of the series seem so real!

I look forward to the next book!

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars... Another fantastic addition to this series... Finding herself embedded in multiple predicaments at the same time but fueled by the love of her family and the need to seek justice, Stacy embarks on another whirlwind adventure as she attempts to thwart the revenge of a powerful goddess plotting against the Geraghty family... A great blend of humor, love, family, and friendship taking the reader on an extraordinary adventure into the mysterious world of magic:)

[Denise Keef · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series and the fifth book is so good! I couldn't put it down and read it in a day and a half! There are a lot of twists and turns...ups and downs...Oh no moments and laugh out loud scenes(my husband asked quite a few times what I was laughing at)! Stacy along with all of her aunts, cousin Cinnamon, Leo, Chance and Thor are all here along with some new characters that I hope make appearances in future books. So looking forward to the next adventure with Stacy Justice who definitely gets into some "sticky" situations to see where she will end up next! Kudos to Barbra Annino on another great story in this series whose writing is so captivating and detailed that you can feel the magic in the air!

[Mlpmom (Book Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not that I had forgotten, but it didn't take me long to remember how fun this series is and how much I enjoy reading it after picking up Obsidian Curse. I was quickly immersed right back into Stacy and the Geraghty Girls's world and I couldn't have been happier about it.

With just the right amount of mystery, danger, romance, humor, and magic, this is one series any lover of either, or all, is sure to love and devour quickly.

With familiar characters I have grown to love and new ones that are every bit as enchanting, I was reminded all over again why this series deserves to be read, loved, and talked about.

Annino is an amazing writer. With her witty one liners, a super sleuth that is every bit as good getting into trouble as she is getting out of it, and amazing side characters that are sure to warm your heart every bit as much as make you laugh, she truly has created both something that is entertaining and much as it is magical.

I'm glad this series is till going strong and that this fifth installment was just as great as its predecessors.

[Becca | Life's A Pearl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to win Barbra Annino's new book as part of the first reads program. I've been a huge fan of the Stacy Justice Mystery series and the 5th book doesn't disappoint!

Obsidian Curse was a pleasure to read. I loved spending a few hours with my favorite characters. They feel like old friends. This book has the same suspense, twists, and magical touch that I enjoyed in the previous books. The town, characters, and family ties that Annino has created are genuine, lovable, and often outright hilarious. Her dialogue (particularly between Stacy and her Great Dane familiar, Thor) always makes me laugh out loud! I'm fond of the whole Geraghty family, especially the aunts, and have really enjoyed how the story unravels more with each book. If you haven't checked out the series yet, I definitely recommend beginning with the first book. A few of them pick up right where the last one left off in a cliffhanger. After that little end note in this book, I'm looking forward to the next one revealing more of the family secrets!

If you enjoyed my review, please check out my blog: www.beccaswainfromauburn.wordpress.com. I review one nonfiction and one fiction book each week, generally on Wednesday.

[Denise Zendel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stacy Justice, reporter by day and powerful witch by night, is finally coming into her own. Once reluctant, she’s now embracing her skills and assuming responsibility as the Seeker of Justice, in the witch world and the human world as well. She is unable to tell her beloved of her true nature, however, and this causes complications in the relationship. He falls under the influence of a succubus and things get even more complicated.

Stacy is struggling at the newspaper too. Her partner has hired a blonde bimbo sex columnist Stacy hates hates hates but can’t do anything about because the bimbo’s work is popular. Stacy is charged with keeping an eye on the bimbo because she’s either a bloodthirsty demon in slut clothing come to torment Stacy and her family, or needs protecting from the bloodthirsty demon. Stacy does enjoy tranquilizing the bimbo on a regular basis.

Samhain, the night when the veil between “them” and “us,” is approaching and stranger-than-normal things are happening. A fairy with a sweet-tooth is stalking Stacy and a mysterious stranger shows up at the newspaper, knowing way more about Stacy than he ought to. Fulfilling her role as Seeker, and finding out how everything fits together may be harmful to Stacy’s love life. Not figuring it all out may be harmful to Stacy’s very existence, as well as that of the family she loves.

I started this on the elliptical at the gym the other day and that was the fastest 30 minutes I’d ever spent. I was so entranced with the story, I rushed through the rest of my workout so I could get home and keep reading.

All the recurring characters are back – Thor, Stacy’s Great Dane “familiar”; Cinnamon, Stacy’s cousin, pregnant and developing an uncharacteristic fondness for kitchen items with a fairytale theme; her wacky aunts; her beloved, Chance; and her ex-boyfriend the sheriff. The plot was captivating and the ending – wow, what a complete surprise.

While you could read these out of order, I recommend reading them in order for maximum enjoyment.

[April Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbra Annino once again takes us on a supernatural adventure into the world of Stacy Justice. As with the other four books Obsidians Curse is well thought out with characters that are not only believable but truly make you wish you could meet them. The plot is not complicated but it is also far from simple. There are enough twists and turns to keep you on your toes. Not only a great summer read but a wonderful anytime you want to cruel up with a good book read. Grab your copy today. Fix your favorite beverage and snuggle up in your favorite sport to read.

I also have the narration with my Kindle copy of this book and found that it is extremely enjoyable to listen to. Thought it would be great to listen to at bedtime and found myself not wanting to sleep. Even though I had already read the book I had to know what was going to happen next.

[Daniell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has got to be one of my favorite series of books! I savor each one and they never disappoint. The secret to a fabulous series is to make a great character and have fabulous and quirky people around them then continue to build and create interesting and unique stories and situations. This book does all of that and then adds humor and romance. I can not ask for more. I loved this one and would recommend the entire series....make sure you start at the beginning (Opal Fire) so you don't miss a single book. You won't be disappointed.

[Kai · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story and find that as the series goes on I get more interested in the trouble Stacey gets in. In this book there is a daemon out for revenge on her family and will use anyone she loves to get it. There is also an author in town investigating what happened to his parents. I loved reading the story as Stacey tried to work out who she could trust and who she shouldn't. As well as if she and Chance will be able to make it when it all calms down. A good book in a great series, definitely a series I would recommend. Xxx

[Mariko Tsubaki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book in the Stacy Justice series. I really enjoyed catching up with Cinnamon, Leo, Chance, and of course Birdie and the Great Aunts. Although this book really centered around Stacy and her transformation into a more powerful witch, I still found some laugh out loud moments. But I really wished there would have been more antics from the Geraghty girls. I am looking forward to the next book because I have a feeling the fun is just beginning for Stacy and the gang.

[Diane ~Firefly~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stacy's witchy world just keeps getting stranger. Her cousin is pregnant and acting abnormal. There is a writer in town who wants Stacy to help solve a cold case. The fae are invading her life again. And Chance is acting strangely.

Stacy discovers The Scribe and is searching for the Obsidian Skull.

I was really glad Stacy told Chance everything at the end. Secrets are never good.

[Sandy Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't get enough of Stacy Justice

Another great story about Stacy. I love this series and can't wait for the net story. this one had it all, witchcraft,action, a bit of romance and of course mystery. highly recommend it

[j · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always enjoyable and never a let down this book is no exception. Funny with characters you can truly say you'd be friends with and fun monster-of-the-week style story telling, win win!

[Paula Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition to the series.

I loved that you are guessing who's on the side everyone is on until the end. I can't wait for the next Stacy Justice book.

[Rob Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series!

I always look forward to another Stacy Justice adventure. Always feel a little sad when I finish the book. Want to keep reading.

[Lissa Smith Reads'~A Bookaholics Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rated
4 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read

In the previous installment Stacy accepted who she is and started fulfilling her destiny. Officially dubbed Seeker of Justice, by the Council in Irland, she actually feels like a powerful, stronger, gifted witch. She fill more in sync with to her magic than in the past.

Samhain, the night when the veil between the worlds thins is coming upon
this small little town. Stacy has an ominous feeling that something is going to happen.

First, Stacy spots Pickel, a fairy with a sweet tooth on her home camera then throughout town.

Then, a mysterious stranger with unknown ties to the town shows up and forces himself in Stacy's path.

Finally, a bloodthirsty, sexy demon has escaped the Otherworld.

Stacy must put her faith into being the Seeker of Justice and use every tool in her weapon bag to solve how this all fits together before it's too late.

Which will suffer and what sacrifices will Stacy have make in order to be the Seeker of Justice, keep her family safe and not lose the love of her life.

Tune in and read this trolling 6th installment of the Stacy Justice series. You will not be disappointed.

[Angela Griffin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Surprisingly disappointing

I've been loving this series; however, something feels off about this story. I like the "no man is an island" lesson. I also like the flashback that advocates choosing to be a warrior rather than a princess (it's just unfortunate that this isn't really integrated into the present events). Stacy seems less charming and feisty and more smugly self-satisfied; also the whole "uber spy with a lair" thing feels very off brand. Chance is little more than another issue to be managed in Stacy's life this time, Cinnamon is unlikable, the normally comedic interactions with Monique provide no humor, and the only thing Sloan has added are more secrets and deceptions. Thor is the only stellar character this time. The mysteries have intriguing potential, but both fizzle in the end. The cold vase is interesting, but the present-day relevance strains credulity. The 100 year curse, and its long-term ramifications for the Geraghtys, is frankly confusing and the chosen vessel is a real headscratcher. I trust Book Seven will be back on track.

[Sidney · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've enjoyed this series, however, this book was a huge disappointment. The plot seemed very disconnected and hastily put together.

What ruined the story, however, were two things.
The first is the amount of slut-shaming. Yes, it has always been there with the character of Monique. However, it was out of control in this book with the addition of the Big Bad.

Second, this book had a lot of rape undertones. Chance's actions towards Stacy are dismissed and ignored before Stacy even knew there was a magical reason. Everyone in her life was telling her something was wrong with him, but she wouldn't listen. Then, she gets cliche girly weepy over him leaving...after he tries to rape her? Seriously?
Then, in the end, nothing comes from it. Everything is excused. There is no discussion between Stacy and Chance over what happened.
This kind of writing is extremely problematic.

[Krystyna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skulls, Sidhe and Scrbe

Awesome. A reunion is planned for former high school students bringing an author into town. He has another reason for coming - the unsolved murder of his parents. Add in a vampiric Sidhe who has a grudge against her family, a lost black obsidian skull, killers and a faeces army for a terrific plot. Where even if you spot one "baddie" you will still be surprised at the ending. Is she strong enough to trust her beau with all her secrets? Why is Thor so protective of the unborn baby? Why is her mother being so secretive? The characters just get better and better. Next please!

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

#4 was smoother but #5 kept stride nonetheless

Book 4 had fewer irk-points than any of the books to present progress here with book 5 but I did enjoy this book despite my frequent disgust over how lacking in ULTRA-basic tech savvy that Annino and her beta readers and apparently editor and everyone in between are STILL, so no fluke there. I also wasn't fond of how Alzheimer's disease was flippantly played with in this book. What I loved was Stacy getting back into her damned Jeep groove!

[Di · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for #MarchMysteryMadness

After a really enjoyable installment in this series, I was disappointed with this one. In general, I felt disconnected from the story. I suppose it is telling that I was able to put this down for a week and a half with only a few pages left to the end how much of a disconnect I felt. It is unfortunate because I really had high hopes for this one with the upward trend in my enjoyment of each installment prior to this one. I'm hoping that the last installment turns this around for me.

[Wolf (Alpha) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and how one of the main characters was an author. I loved how this book was a book that seemed like it fit the author in the story. I hate that Stacy once again puts herself in danger but that’s always something she will do. I love how Cinnamon is pregnant and how the baby is magical and I love how Thor is determined to protect her and the baby no matter what. I love how she is able to help the author with his mystery. I love that she gets Chance back and how he finally believes her about all her witch stuff.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is really coming into its own. This is the best on to date by far with a wonderful sense of humor and whimsy. I like the gradual progression of the central character and the supporting characters are a lot of fun. I do wish that the author would give more info about the spells and such as sometimes the outcome of a conflict hinges on a spell or power that we, the readers, never knew about. But that is nit picking. The stories are fun and that is really all that matters.

[Phyllis Riddle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the book

Just finished the first 6 Stacey Justice stories and love every one. Sure don’t want the series to end. Hope Barbra Annino keeps the series going. Fun light hearted at the same time trilling. One of books (actually all 6 so far) are chilling “who done it’s) that will keep you turning page after page with a bit of humor thrown here and there. Endings are always a surprise.

[Raelene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, really loved this one-Stacy Justice Seeker of justice, is really challenged in this story-and the love of her life chance’s life is in danger-loved the character of Blade the author-and that cousin Cinnamon is having g a baby that is magical when she is not-heat read and makes me love this character mire, My only fear, there will be an end to this series- I am off to read the next. What a great writer!

[Ed And · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great fun but read in order of publication to get everything.

I have REALLY enjoyed reading the first six Stacy Justice books. Great writing and fun. But if you plop yourself down and read then out of order you might get lost and confused.

The characters get developed fully and Stacy gets to grow to het fullest.

With that said, the story is great fun and I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Writers

Excellent story and well written. Stacy and Chance are trying to work on their relationship but Stacy's secrets are causing problems. You have a writer called Blade who turns out to have a witchy part. You have a succubus causing trouble. My favorite part is the overprotective Dane , Thor! Enjoy the mystery, the spy toys and the the humor! I loved it!

[Denise McLachlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. It's easy to read and keeps me turning the pages quickly so I can find out what happens next. This book was as fun and as interesting as the other books in the series and, spoiler alert, the cliff hanger at the end of the book was a shocker. I immediately downloaded the next book.

[Sarah Goodner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back to the good, old-fashioned witchy mystery. This installment was way better than the last. Stacy's wit made me laugh out loud.

Blade Knight, bestselling author, returns to Amethyst for a high school reunion and to settle a score. In the meantime, a slutty demon man-napper is also on the loose, and she's got her eye set on Stacy's main squeeze.

[Patricia A Spring · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twitchy mystery

Another good story, each getting more into the magic and mystical side but again, what mother would think her daughter was in danger and say she was going on a romantic weekend, especially after not seeing her child for years? Obviously something else is going on and setting up another book but both things annoying