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Stacy Justice #7
Phantom Quartz
It’s nearing Yule in Amethyst, and the witchy reporter, Stacy Justice, is consumed with only one thing—getting through her cousin Cinnamon’s baby shower. Everyone is anticipating the arrival of the newest, tiniest Geraghty. Even Stacy's familiar, Thor, is searching for the perfect gift. When Cinnamon’s Italian relatives swarm the town like locusts, Stacy has only three things on her mind--provide a peaceful affair for both mother and unborn baby, spend some quality time with her own mother who is visiting from Ireland, and eat as much of her aunt Lolly’s famous food as she can stomach.
But someone else has an entirely different agenda. Someone consumed with rage, jealousy and bitterness. Someone who feels that the Geraghtys—and especially Stacy—are standing in the way of a fated prophesy.
When a ghost who doesn’t know he’s a ghost, follows Stacy home from a crime scene, she thinks her biggest problem is trying to convince the teenager that he’s dead. Until she discovers her mother conspiring with a secret coven, Cinnamon acting strangely magical, and Birdie and the aunts have lost their mojo. Then a spell is cast designed to siphon all of Stacy’s magic and rip away the very identity she’s worked so hard to accept.
Worst of all? A visit from an old friend warns Stacy that she has only one week left to live.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: It is highly recommended that this series be read in order.
But someone else has an entirely different agenda. Someone consumed with rage, jealousy and bitterness. Someone who feels that the Geraghtys—and especially Stacy—are standing in the way of a fated prophesy.
When a ghost who doesn’t know he’s a ghost, follows Stacy home from a crime scene, she thinks her biggest problem is trying to convince the teenager that he’s dead. Until she discovers her mother conspiring with a secret coven, Cinnamon acting strangely magical, and Birdie and the aunts have lost their mojo. Then a spell is cast designed to siphon all of Stacy’s magic and rip away the very identity she’s worked so hard to accept.
Worst of all? A visit from an old friend warns Stacy that she has only one week left to live.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: It is highly recommended that this series be read in order.
228 pages, ebook
First published May 18, 2015
829 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
About the author
Barbra Annino
35 books620 followersBarbra 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
September 7, 2017
What would Halloween be without a really good witchy read? It just wouldn't be the same that is for sure, which is why, Phantom Quartz was a must read for me. I have been holding on to it for a few months, just waiting for the right time and it was perfect when I did finally, pick it up.
This is by far one of my favorite underrated series out there. Truly it is so much fun and I have been a fan since the very beginning and really do wish more people knew about it and would try it because it is so worth the time. Set in a small town full of strange things happening all the time, crazy great aunts that own a B&B, a family on the run, danger and mystery around every corner, a very friendly, very funny canine familiar, and characters both main and secondary that are sure to win you over and this read, really is a win win.
SO many things happen, so many things revealed. I really can't say too much other than this, if you are looking for a fun stand out series with laugh out loud moments, heart pounding danger, and good witchy fun, pick up this series, you won't be disappointed.
This is by far one of my favorite underrated series out there. Truly it is so much fun and I have been a fan since the very beginning and really do wish more people knew about it and would try it because it is so worth the time. Set in a small town full of strange things happening all the time, crazy great aunts that own a B&B, a family on the run, danger and mystery around every corner, a very friendly, very funny canine familiar, and characters both main and secondary that are sure to win you over and this read, really is a win win.
SO many things happen, so many things revealed. I really can't say too much other than this, if you are looking for a fun stand out series with laugh out loud moments, heart pounding danger, and good witchy fun, pick up this series, you won't be disappointed.
November 1, 2018
4.5 Stars... I need the next book in this series NOW.... The intensity is rising as secrets are revealed and prophecies are fulfilled for Stacy Justice and this witchy cast of characters... Add in the romantic element and I am uncertain as to the direction of Stacy's destiny... This has all the elements of a cozy mystery that I love, magic, humor, romance, and utter mayhem at all times... I have so much fun journeying with Stacy and friends through these mysteries... Looking forward to the next installment.:)
March 20, 2021
Read for #MarchMysteryMadness
Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this installment. I can't tell you why because of spoilers, but I feel the very last sentences in this book need some explaining.
It seems this is the last novel in this story, so that's disappointing. While I'm glad to have finished this series, I don't like that I have unanswered questions in the end and there were definitely things I didn't enjoy in this installment.
Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy this installment. I can't tell you why because of spoilers, but I feel the very last sentences in this book need some explaining.
It seems this is the last novel in this story, so that's disappointing. While I'm glad to have finished this series, I don't like that I have unanswered questions in the end and there were definitely things I didn't enjoy in this installment.
June 1, 2023
Rated
3 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
The synopsis or first paragraph could not say it any better than I.
This heart-pounding, bewitching mystery was definately an epic read as secrets were revealed and loyalties were shattered. When the last page is turned, neither readers nor the Seeker herself, will ever be the same.
~Introduction
Over the last year or so, life has launched quite a few curve balls at Stacy's head. Some of them she managed to bob and weave, and some of them made a direct hit. Stacy's been shot at, betrayed, beaten, left without a pulse, sucked into another world, used as demon bait, bitch-slapped by a goddess, groped by dead people, and stuffed into a birdcage. You might say Stacy's life was anything but boring. Of all the cockfockery Stacy has faced on her reluctant journey to becoming the Seeker of Justice and accepting her witchiness, none was so daunting as the task that lay before her now. It was a hand-wringing, jaw-clenching, heart-pounding cluster fluff of a problem.
~Chapter 1: 1st paragraph paraphrased
I will admit I paused during this review to check out the release date of the next book in the series and was shocked to learn that with all the open plots, there is NO next book????
WTF????
Help a reader out here fellow bookaholics.... Is there a spin-off I didn't find??
Cliff ending like this really mess with my reading flow when there is no follow thp!!!!
3 Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
Kindle Unlimited Read
The synopsis or first paragraph could not say it any better than I.
This heart-pounding, bewitching mystery was definately an epic read as secrets were revealed and loyalties were shattered. When the last page is turned, neither readers nor the Seeker herself, will ever be the same.
~Introduction
Over the last year or so, life has launched quite a few curve balls at Stacy's head. Some of them she managed to bob and weave, and some of them made a direct hit. Stacy's been shot at, betrayed, beaten, left without a pulse, sucked into another world, used as demon bait, bitch-slapped by a goddess, groped by dead people, and stuffed into a birdcage. You might say Stacy's life was anything but boring. Of all the cockfockery Stacy has faced on her reluctant journey to becoming the Seeker of Justice and accepting her witchiness, none was so daunting as the task that lay before her now. It was a hand-wringing, jaw-clenching, heart-pounding cluster fluff of a problem.
~Chapter 1: 1st paragraph paraphrased
I will admit I paused during this review to check out the release date of the next book in the series and was shocked to learn that with all the open plots, there is NO next book????
WTF????
Help a reader out here fellow bookaholics.... Is there a spin-off I didn't find??
Cliff ending like this really mess with my reading flow when there is no follow thp!!!!
January 10, 2022
Since I've read 6 of these now I thought I'd say something...it has been very busy around here to say the least. Anyway. I remember I really enjoyed the first book, I gave it 4 stars, it captured my fun fantasy side, so I happily continued on with the series. I did take issue immediately with the ever sarcastic one liners of Stacy that are continuous...I get really annoyed by this trait in real life as well. I also had serious issue with the only thing to make one of her aunts feel balanced again was to ply her with alcohol...really? However, the story kept me going and I found I wanted to continue.
A couple of them were just way too over the top in story line, and sometimes a challenge to follow. A bit on the violent side. However, some of the cleverness and the relationship with her cousin and her 'dog' kept me going. I did give another one 4 stars as well....but this might explain why only 3 on average. They are fun to read, keep a quick pace, have interesting details about witches and that history, which I really enjoy, and I've grown more accustom to her smart aleck ways, so 3 stars means I liked it, so that's where I'm at.
I will continue when the next book comes out. I'd like to learn more about the witch stuff if nothing else. It feels like the author might have history with this lifestyle and it's very interesting.
A couple of them were just way too over the top in story line, and sometimes a challenge to follow. A bit on the violent side. However, some of the cleverness and the relationship with her cousin and her 'dog' kept me going. I did give another one 4 stars as well....but this might explain why only 3 on average. They are fun to read, keep a quick pace, have interesting details about witches and that history, which I really enjoy, and I've grown more accustom to her smart aleck ways, so 3 stars means I liked it, so that's where I'm at.
I will continue when the next book comes out. I'd like to learn more about the witch stuff if nothing else. It feels like the author might have history with this lifestyle and it's very interesting.
February 18, 2017
Really enjoyed this book. Lots of surprises and I hope there will be another one.
Cinnamon is about to give birth, so her family and Stacy's mom are visiting. Stacy loses her Seeker locket, picks up a teenage ghost and tries to find her locket and stay alive. All the local characters are here. Thor gets a new buddy. All in all a great story.
Cinnamon is about to give birth, so her family and Stacy's mom are visiting. Stacy loses her Seeker locket, picks up a teenage ghost and tries to find her locket and stay alive. All the local characters are here. Thor gets a new buddy. All in all a great story.
August 7, 2018
SIX. That's apparently how many tries it takes to put out a book of slop
This is seriously the most EMBARRASSINGLY SLOPPY book. And it's the *sixth* in a damned series?! From just lazy writing to typos and progressively worsening continuity issues and Jesus, MORE lazy writing, I am just dumbfounded. The chapter transitions read like a newb's first attempts at writing a book and the ending was the laziest, weakest crap I've read in a LONG time.
I usually try to cling to at least a little positive takeaway when I'm reviewing a book but my God... It's just like Annino WANTED a 1-star! I honestly can't recall anything I liked about this book which is sad, because it ultimately means that what WAS decent was just THAT overshadowed by the disappointment and annoyance that I felt at the other garbage.
I'm not giving up ENTIRELY on Annino, but man did this book leave a bad aftertaste.
This is seriously the most EMBARRASSINGLY SLOPPY book. And it's the *sixth* in a damned series?! From just lazy writing to typos and progressively worsening continuity issues and Jesus, MORE lazy writing, I am just dumbfounded. The chapter transitions read like a newb's first attempts at writing a book and the ending was the laziest, weakest crap I've read in a LONG time.
I usually try to cling to at least a little positive takeaway when I'm reviewing a book but my God... It's just like Annino WANTED a 1-star! I honestly can't recall anything I liked about this book which is sad, because it ultimately means that what WAS decent was just THAT overshadowed by the disappointment and annoyance that I felt at the other garbage.
I'm not giving up ENTIRELY on Annino, but man did this book leave a bad aftertaste.
March 26, 2016
I love Cinnamon! I just love these books they are so fun to read and they are entertaining and always keep you guessing and drag you by the seat of your pants. I cannot wait for the next one.
September 29, 2016
Captivating to the very end.
I did not see that coming at all... great way to end book 6. I really enjoyed all the books...
I did not see that coming at all... great way to end book 6. I really enjoyed all the books...
May 21, 2019
What an adventure!
Barbra Annino is a gifted author who literally enchants her readers with her craft. Author, yes, Witch?, DEFINITELY! As she weaves her storyline and ensnares us with her gifts we become a part of her story, eagerly awaiting each word with breathless anticipation! I am a 59 year old woman, an avid reader who does not ordinarily read what most would consider to be young adult fiction. Well thank goodness I fell off the stereotypical wagon and took a chance on what I considered to be at the time a "fun" read. The cover is what caught my attention originally. But within a few pages I was completely bewitched! Ms. Annino is quite "crafty", and I quickly devoured all 6 books within a few day, and was heartbroken to find that I am all caught up on this series! Poo! I have Thoroughly and completely enjoyed this adventure and I, for one, dearly hope that Ms. Annino has a hidden vault full of Stacy's next adventures ready to make available to her captive audience! Please pull out that magical quill and get to writing!!
I suggest to anyone who may be on the fence on this series, take a leap of faith, and jump right in. I promise, you won't be disappointed!
Barbra Annino is a gifted author who literally enchants her readers with her craft. Author, yes, Witch?, DEFINITELY! As she weaves her storyline and ensnares us with her gifts we become a part of her story, eagerly awaiting each word with breathless anticipation! I am a 59 year old woman, an avid reader who does not ordinarily read what most would consider to be young adult fiction. Well thank goodness I fell off the stereotypical wagon and took a chance on what I considered to be at the time a "fun" read. The cover is what caught my attention originally. But within a few pages I was completely bewitched! Ms. Annino is quite "crafty", and I quickly devoured all 6 books within a few day, and was heartbroken to find that I am all caught up on this series! Poo! I have Thoroughly and completely enjoyed this adventure and I, for one, dearly hope that Ms. Annino has a hidden vault full of Stacy's next adventures ready to make available to her captive audience! Please pull out that magical quill and get to writing!!
I suggest to anyone who may be on the fence on this series, take a leap of faith, and jump right in. I promise, you won't be disappointed!
January 17, 2020
Love this series!
I've read the first seven (including the prequel) and look forward to more. Stacy Justice is a "Kick -Ass" woman who is also a witch...a special kind of witch called a "Seeker" (of Justice). In the beginning of the series Stacy returns to Amethyst, Illinois, from a high powered job as a journalist in Chicago. She adamantly refused to accept her paranormal powers but always knew her grandmother and 2 great aunts were witches. Its been such fun watching Stacy not only come to terms with being a witch herself but also learning how to use her powers and then finally coming into her own as the powerful "Seeker." I have to say that the family relationships in the books are really what has kept me reading. And now her cousin Cinnamon is having a baby... another generation of witches on the horizon!
I've read the first seven (including the prequel) and look forward to more. Stacy Justice is a "Kick -Ass" woman who is also a witch...a special kind of witch called a "Seeker" (of Justice). In the beginning of the series Stacy returns to Amethyst, Illinois, from a high powered job as a journalist in Chicago. She adamantly refused to accept her paranormal powers but always knew her grandmother and 2 great aunts were witches. Its been such fun watching Stacy not only come to terms with being a witch herself but also learning how to use her powers and then finally coming into her own as the powerful "Seeker." I have to say that the family relationships in the books are really what has kept me reading. And now her cousin Cinnamon is having a baby... another generation of witches on the horizon!
June 25, 2018
Babies, treasure and shifters
Awesome but I have one gripe - the previous book was about a vampiric Sidhe and not a demon succubui (they are completely different). Take a baby shower, add some ghosts, treasure, a shifter that can take any form, a crazy idea to get in well with the Council and mix for a great read. Can she find the shifter and stop the scheme that they have come up with? The two main bits of information that came at the end of the book should provide plenty of scope for further books. Although I loved the book is gave it a 4* as I expected more re the continuity from the previous book.
Awesome but I have one gripe - the previous book was about a vampiric Sidhe and not a demon succubui (they are completely different). Take a baby shower, add some ghosts, treasure, a shifter that can take any form, a crazy idea to get in well with the Council and mix for a great read. Can she find the shifter and stop the scheme that they have come up with? The two main bits of information that came at the end of the book should provide plenty of scope for further books. Although I loved the book is gave it a 4* as I expected more re the continuity from the previous book.
August 29, 2019
Twitchy mystery
Still enjoying the book but points off for a mother who will go to witch prison to protect her daughter but then not come to visit stay with her after being released until a friend needs her, she will come for a friend but not her mother or daughter? And will put the daughter in danger, all the secrets and lies that make things tougher for Stacy. The boyfriends who understand, yet don't, more secrets and lies. May not read more because tired of so many loose ends to write more books and no follow up on what seems important
Still enjoying the book but points off for a mother who will go to witch prison to protect her daughter but then not come to visit stay with her after being released until a friend needs her, she will come for a friend but not her mother or daughter? And will put the daughter in danger, all the secrets and lies that make things tougher for Stacy. The boyfriends who understand, yet don't, more secrets and lies. May not read more because tired of so many loose ends to write more books and no follow up on what seems important
November 22, 2023
This was probably one of my favorite books in this series. I love that Cinnamon is so cranky yet still badass through her pregnancy. I love how she has a bunny as her familiar. I love how she finds out that Leo is her protector and find it funny because he annoys her to no end. I hated how there was a imposter who shapeshifted into her mom and tried to take her powers I love how she gets all her aunts powers including the having to drink to stay mentally sane. I love that she’s able to save Cinnamon’s baby and how Cinnamon now knows she’s a witch. Cannot wait for the next book to come out!!
October 2, 2019
Another fun story
Barbara Annino manages to combine humor, magic & mayhem in her books and stories. This book is another wild ride for Stacy Justice. More twists & turns. I hope it is not giving anything away when I say that Justice prevails in the end. The only negative about the book is that it needs to be proofread better. I got the gist, but there were some spelling & grammatical errors.
Barbara Annino manages to combine humor, magic & mayhem in her books and stories. This book is another wild ride for Stacy Justice. More twists & turns. I hope it is not giving anything away when I say that Justice prevails in the end. The only negative about the book is that it needs to be proofread better. I got the gist, but there were some spelling & grammatical errors.
September 12, 2023
Oh, no, there is no Book 8, yet. Evidently, there will be but no publication date is available.
Book 7 has some interesting elements. We learn why Cinnamon has been so -- weirdly -- maternal of late. Thor gets a mentee and -- ?? -- a new ability. Stacy loses something important but learns some stuff she did not previously know.
A new Council? should be interesting.
Also, looks like we will have to wait until Book 8 to learn the wee one's name.
Book 7 has some interesting elements. We learn why Cinnamon has been so -- weirdly -- maternal of late. Thor gets a mentee and -- ?? -- a new ability. Stacy loses something important but learns some stuff she did not previously know.
A new Council? should be interesting.
Also, looks like we will have to wait until Book 8 to learn the wee one's name.
May 12, 2017
Surprises
Of the series, this is my favorite ! Awesome story with lots of twists and surprises! Stacy learns about her cousin Cinnamon 's family and we have a white rabbit as a familiar. The baby is born but no name yet, I vote for Aurora or second best Penelope. I look forward to the next in the series!
Of the series, this is my favorite ! Awesome story with lots of twists and surprises! Stacy learns about her cousin Cinnamon 's family and we have a white rabbit as a familiar. The baby is born but no name yet, I vote for Aurora or second best Penelope. I look forward to the next in the series!
June 13, 2017
Baby, boobies, and bunny
Great story! This book had a lot going on, but was tied with a nice little bow!
I had a feeling about Cin. So glad the baby came, even I was feeling the emotions of Cinnamon.
Glad to find out about Leo and curious to find what goes on in that area!!! Look forward to the next book.
Great story! This book had a lot going on, but was tied with a nice little bow!
I had a feeling about Cin. So glad the baby came, even I was feeling the emotions of Cinnamon.
Glad to find out about Leo and curious to find what goes on in that area!!! Look forward to the next book.
March 26, 2018
Just when Stacy Justice thought she knew what was what, curve balls are thrown her way. I really liked the twist and turns in this book. Some of the characters were not in this story line as much as I would have liked but we got to learn more about some of the other characters and some history of the Geraghty family. I hope there are more Stacy Justice stories to come!
August 5, 2018
Another cute, if not slightly pointless, adventure with Stacy Justice and her mighty dog, Thor. In this installment, we have shape shifters, familiars, ghosts, witches, an ancient family feud, and the constant ex-boyfriend. I sincerely hope there will be more books to come in this series. Great for beach reads!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2018
Awesome Story
Another Great read in this amazing series. One thing I love about the series is that there is always multiple things going on in each book. Not just one plotline, but several important plot lines. Plus we, the reader, learn more and more about the history of Stacy's family. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Another Great read in this amazing series. One thing I love about the series is that there is always multiple things going on in each book. Not just one plotline, but several important plot lines. Plus we, the reader, learn more and more about the history of Stacy's family. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
February 13, 2019
Fast paced, compelling story. There were a lot of twists and turns and A Lot of characters to keep straight. Even after letting it tumble about in my subconscious most of the day, I’m still not sure I grasped all the details. Big picture, over arching themes, sure thing. Enough so that I’m glad the next book is slated to come out this year.
December 30, 2019
Fun bit of a mystery
Fair warning: I haven't read the other books in the series. I don't think you have to, but it will certainly help. Characters were fun. Loved Thor. There was a lot of little plots going on so it seemed to drag at times. Overall though, it was enjoyable and I would read more from the series.
Fair warning: I haven't read the other books in the series. I don't think you have to, but it will certainly help. Characters were fun. Loved Thor. There was a lot of little plots going on so it seemed to drag at times. Overall though, it was enjoyable and I would read more from the series.
February 9, 2021
So glad I found this series and writer. Having now read all the Stacy Justice mysteries so far I now really want the next one, but, it ain't out yet so it seems. Big sighs. Never mind I have found the one about a fury so that will tide me over, and the ones featuring the Great Dane so that's another few days taken care of. Phew. Thought for a moment I was going to have to leave the house! 😂
December 14, 2022
I have read the whole series and it continued to get better with each book. Now I'm hoping that there is more as it seems some characters just got started like Cinnamon, Leo and now the new baby. Who would have thought that there were two covens that could work together to take on the Council. Hopefully we get to know with future books or another series to blend it all together ❤️ 🙏 Thanks Ms Annino for a great series! 👍
June 21, 2023
Nothing like Stacy Justice
Have read each on and this is number seven and it’s even better than the last one. I would never have though a set of books could be so interesting that they consume your whole attention but these do. Can’t wait to get started with the next one. Definitely recommend it to everyone
Have read each on and this is number seven and it’s even better than the last one. I would never have though a set of books could be so interesting that they consume your whole attention but these do. Can’t wait to get started with the next one. Definitely recommend it to everyone
October 20, 2023
Phantom Quartz is the 7th (and maybe last) of the series by Barbara Annino. I would classify it as a cozy urban fantasy. There is a lot of hinting at the terrible peril she is in and the horrible events to come, but very little of it actually materializes. The story is mostly about the actions and interactions of friends and family.
April 11, 2024
This book had me laughing so hard I was nearly falling out of my chair and then turn around and be so suspenseful that I couldn't put the book down!!! Really good read!!! Very complicated storyline - I love it!!! I also love all the extra history and back stories that were added to this one that gave it so much more depth!!
November 1, 2024
Excellent Series Continues
This excellent series just gets better. The author brings in new characters and surprises in every volume. She outdid herself this time with several jaw dropping bomb shells. As always, there is humor and THOR! Looks like we will have to wait awhile for the next book, but I'm sure it will be awesome!
This excellent series just gets better. The author brings in new characters and surprises in every volume. She outdid herself this time with several jaw dropping bomb shells. As always, there is humor and THOR! Looks like we will have to wait awhile for the next book, but I'm sure it will be awesome!
May 21, 2017
Book 6 with Stacy Justice
This book had more action and intrigue than the others. More witches, ghosts, and even a fury! Death, love, birth, and lies galore. Fun reading and easy to read. A good escape from reality!
This book had more action and intrigue than the others. More witches, ghosts, and even a fury! Death, love, birth, and lies galore. Fun reading and easy to read. A good escape from reality!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews