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Stacy Justice #2
Opal Fire
Stacy Justice did not expect to be set on fire that night, but being raised by witches prepares one for life's little surprises. When her cousin is accused of arson, Stacy is determined to clear her family name—until something cryptic is discovered in the rubble that changes everything. Now, someone wants her dead and she finds herself dodging angry motorists, exploding chickens and a very creepy man lurking in the shadows. As she begins to dig up the past, Stacy learns that even those closest to her have something to hide—and she's about to discover a destiny she never imagined. Suddenly, she finds herself running from a killer that will stop at nothing to keep a secret.
A bewitching tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem, Opal Fire ignites a dazzling mystery series.
When someone burns down her cousin's bar, sassy, sharp-tongued reporter Stacy Justice will have to embrace the magic in her blood that she'd just as soon forget.
A bewitching tale of mystery, magic, and mayhem, Opal Fire ignites a dazzling mystery series.
When someone burns down her cousin's bar, sassy, sharp-tongued reporter Stacy Justice will have to embrace the magic in her blood that she'd just as soon forget.
236 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2010
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4171 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 594 reviews
August 25, 2013
Book Info: Genre: Paranormal Mystery/Chick Lit
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of paranormal romance, chick lit
Trigger Warnings: murder, assault on women
Spoiler Alert: While it would be possible to write a review without spoilers, it would be difficult to adequately explain why I disliked the story without providing the specific example I chose. So be aware that there is a spoiler in the 3rd paragraph below. I will hide in on the two sites that allow such (and as a result, it won't be accessible at all on my blog), but the rest of you? Sorry, but it's there. It's marked, though, although without formatting it might be hard to see.
My Thoughts: I had already picked up the first two books in this series when the third one came up for my Amazon Vine selection, so I was very excited to discover that, since the books sounded like something I would like and this would save me having to track that third one down. This is the first book in the Stacy Justice series, followed by Bloodstone and Tiger's Eye. A fourth book, Emerald Isle, is scheduled for release sometime in 2013.
I sort of went back and forth on my feelings on this book. I would be enjoying it for what is was, but then I'd stop and think about it and have all kinds of issues with it, which are mostly personal issues about not caring much for “chick lit”. I also kept wanting to compare it to Practical Magic because the Geraghty Girls reminded me of the aunties. But when it came right down to it, and despite how much I loved Practical Magic, I really didn't like the story.
The reason has to do with the reasons I don't much care for chick lit or many romances, and that is that too many authors think that “feisty” translates into a complete inability to deal with things rationally. What on earth is WRONG with these people? "Oh, screw you for saving my life, how dare you do that!" That isn't “feisty”, that's “too stupid to live.” There is a major difference between being self-sufficient, and being reckless and stubborn, and all too often the women in these sorts of books are just stupidly reckless and stubborn.
If it weren't for the fact that a) I need to read the series because the third one is a Vine book and b) there is a twist at the very end that makes me hopeful the next book will be better, I'd just abandon this whole thing. However, if you like chick lit, if you like paranormal romances, if you like those sorts of stories, you will probably like this one, so don't let my grumpiness turn you off it.
Disclosure: I picked this book up on Amazon during a KDP promotion. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Stacy Justice did not expect to be set on fire that night, but being raised by witches prepares one for life's little surprises. In fact, she isn't the least bit shocked when her cousin is accused of arson, or when her divorced grandparents sign up for a marriage retreat, or even when her own boyfriend hauls her off to jail. But when a decades-old secret is discovered within the walls of her cousin's bar, even Stacy is rattled. Now, someone wants her dead and she finds herself dodging angry motorists, exploding chickens and a very creepy man who lurks around every corner. As she begins to dig up the past, Stacy learns that even those closest to her have something to hide—and she's about to discover a destiny she never imagined.
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of paranormal romance, chick lit
Trigger Warnings: murder, assault on women
Spoiler Alert: While it would be possible to write a review without spoilers, it would be difficult to adequately explain why I disliked the story without providing the specific example I chose. So be aware that there is a spoiler in the 3rd paragraph below. I will hide in on the two sites that allow such (and as a result, it won't be accessible at all on my blog), but the rest of you? Sorry, but it's there. It's marked, though, although without formatting it might be hard to see.
My Thoughts: I had already picked up the first two books in this series when the third one came up for my Amazon Vine selection, so I was very excited to discover that, since the books sounded like something I would like and this would save me having to track that third one down. This is the first book in the Stacy Justice series, followed by Bloodstone and Tiger's Eye. A fourth book, Emerald Isle, is scheduled for release sometime in 2013.
I sort of went back and forth on my feelings on this book. I would be enjoying it for what is was, but then I'd stop and think about it and have all kinds of issues with it, which are mostly personal issues about not caring much for “chick lit”. I also kept wanting to compare it to Practical Magic because the Geraghty Girls reminded me of the aunties. But when it came right down to it, and despite how much I loved Practical Magic, I really didn't like the story.
The reason has to do with the reasons I don't much care for chick lit or many romances, and that is that too many authors think that “feisty” translates into a complete inability to deal with things rationally. What on earth is WRONG with these people? "Oh, screw you for saving my life, how dare you do that!" That isn't “feisty”, that's “too stupid to live.” There is a major difference between being self-sufficient, and being reckless and stubborn, and all too often the women in these sorts of books are just stupidly reckless and stubborn.
If it weren't for the fact that a) I need to read the series because the third one is a Vine book and b) there is a twist at the very end that makes me hopeful the next book will be better, I'd just abandon this whole thing. However, if you like chick lit, if you like paranormal romances, if you like those sorts of stories, you will probably like this one, so don't let my grumpiness turn you off it.
Disclosure: I picked this book up on Amazon during a KDP promotion. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Stacy Justice did not expect to be set on fire that night, but being raised by witches prepares one for life's little surprises. In fact, she isn't the least bit shocked when her cousin is accused of arson, or when her divorced grandparents sign up for a marriage retreat, or even when her own boyfriend hauls her off to jail. But when a decades-old secret is discovered within the walls of her cousin's bar, even Stacy is rattled. Now, someone wants her dead and she finds herself dodging angry motorists, exploding chickens and a very creepy man who lurks around every corner. As she begins to dig up the past, Stacy learns that even those closest to her have something to hide—and she's about to discover a destiny she never imagined.
June 25, 2016
So much fun!
Helping her cousin Cinnamon set up at the Black Opal bar wasn’t meant to end the way it did for Stacy Justice – but with the building on fire and Stacy unable to find Thor in the midst of the heat, she felt an intense panic as she saw the beam collapse in front of her cousin, trapping her on the other side. Dragged to safety by police chief and boyfriend Leo, Stacy was relieved to see both Thor and Cinnamon were fine. But the fire started a chain of events that both took lives and put lives in danger – mostly Stacy’s…
Stacy was a reluctant witch – raised by her grandmother and her two aunts, she knew what they were capable of. And she had no desire to participate in witchery herself. But when Cinnamon was informed by the insurance assessor that it was arson, and he believed she was the arsonist so there would be no payout, Stacy – in her role as reporter for the local paper – decided to investigate and uncover the truth. The secrets Stacy discovered immediately put her life at risk – with Thor by her side though, she felt safe. But was she delusional?
Opal Fire by Barbra Annino is the first in the Stacy Justice Mystery series and it was loads of fun! Laugh out loud moments even among the (not gruesome) details of murder and arson – my favourite character would have to be Thor, Stacy’s Great Dane. The start of a great mystery/paranormal series – and I was delighted to note I have book two waiting on my kindle! Opal Fire only took me a few hours to read – it's fast paced and kept me enthralled till the last page. Highly recommended.
Helping her cousin Cinnamon set up at the Black Opal bar wasn’t meant to end the way it did for Stacy Justice – but with the building on fire and Stacy unable to find Thor in the midst of the heat, she felt an intense panic as she saw the beam collapse in front of her cousin, trapping her on the other side. Dragged to safety by police chief and boyfriend Leo, Stacy was relieved to see both Thor and Cinnamon were fine. But the fire started a chain of events that both took lives and put lives in danger – mostly Stacy’s…
Stacy was a reluctant witch – raised by her grandmother and her two aunts, she knew what they were capable of. And she had no desire to participate in witchery herself. But when Cinnamon was informed by the insurance assessor that it was arson, and he believed she was the arsonist so there would be no payout, Stacy – in her role as reporter for the local paper – decided to investigate and uncover the truth. The secrets Stacy discovered immediately put her life at risk – with Thor by her side though, she felt safe. But was she delusional?
Opal Fire by Barbra Annino is the first in the Stacy Justice Mystery series and it was loads of fun! Laugh out loud moments even among the (not gruesome) details of murder and arson – my favourite character would have to be Thor, Stacy’s Great Dane. The start of a great mystery/paranormal series – and I was delighted to note I have book two waiting on my kindle! Opal Fire only took me a few hours to read – it's fast paced and kept me enthralled till the last page. Highly recommended.
September 15, 2017
ספר בסדר לא יותר מזה.
סטייסי ג'סטיס היא בת למשפחת נשים מכשפות. היא גם כתבת עיתון מוכשרת והיא בת זוג של ליאו, שהוא מפקד המשטרה.
היא מתכחשת להיותה מכשפה אבל כשתעלומה מסתורית של הצתת העסק של בת דודתה תופסת אותה ואת בת דודתה והן כמעט נפגעות בשריפה, וכאשר מתגלה כי זו למעשה הצתה וכשמתגלה גופה בקיר, סטייסי ג'סטיס נקראת אל גורלה והיא מתחילה לחשוב שאולי יש משהו במכשפות הזו של הנשים במשפחתה.
במהלך 270 עמודים, מנסים להתנקש בסטייסי על כל צעד ושעל וכמעט בכל פרק יש אירוע כזה או אחר של ניסיון רצח. בשלב מסוים זה די מעיק.
היא גם בלשית לא משהו בכלל והיא נסמכת על החושים השישיים שלה יותר מאשר על עובדות בפיענוח התעלומה.
לסטייסי יש כלב בשם תור שניתן לה להגנה, אבל רוב הזמן הוא בכלל לא איתה. היא מתכתשת עם ליאו וכל הזמן עפים רמזים באוויר שהם לא זוג מתאים כי במשפחה שלה הנשים נשארות לבד ויחד עם זאת יש להן ילדים אז איך כל הסיפור הזה מסתדר לא ברור לי. גם החבר לשעבר שלה חוזר לתמונה, לא ברור לי למה היא קוראת לו בחזרה לעזור לה וכל הזמן עפים רמזים כאילו יתכן שהם יחזרו להיות יחד. רמזים סתמיים בדיוק כמו מערכת היחסים של סטייסי עם ליאו שלא ברור בכלל מה יש בה.
למרות שישנן אמירות ציניות משעשעות לאורך הספר הוא לא מתעלה מעל כתיבה בינונית חסרת מעוף עם תעלומה שהפתרון שלה הוא בגדר בסדר וקסמים שלא בדיוק נמצאים שם.
סטייסי ג'סטיס היא בת למשפחת נשים מכשפות. היא גם כתבת עיתון מוכשרת והיא בת זוג של ליאו, שהוא מפקד המשטרה.
היא מתכחשת להיותה מכשפה אבל כשתעלומה מסתורית של הצתת העסק של בת דודתה תופסת אותה ואת בת דודתה והן כמעט נפגעות בשריפה, וכאשר מתגלה כי זו למעשה הצתה וכשמתגלה גופה בקיר, סטייסי ג'סטיס נקראת אל גורלה והיא מתחילה לחשוב שאולי יש משהו במכשפות הזו של הנשים במשפחתה.
במהלך 270 עמודים, מנסים להתנקש בסטייסי על כל צעד ושעל וכמעט בכל פרק יש אירוע כזה או אחר של ניסיון רצח. בשלב מסוים זה די מעיק.
היא גם בלשית לא משהו בכלל והיא נסמכת על החושים השישיים שלה יותר מאשר על עובדות בפיענוח התעלומה.
לסטייסי יש כלב בשם תור שניתן לה להגנה, אבל רוב הזמן הוא בכלל לא איתה. היא מתכתשת עם ליאו וכל הזמן עפים רמזים באוויר שהם לא זוג מתאים כי במשפחה שלה הנשים נשארות לבד ויחד עם זאת יש להן ילדים אז איך כל הסיפור הזה מסתדר לא ברור לי. גם החבר לשעבר שלה חוזר לתמונה, לא ברור לי למה היא קוראת לו בחזרה לעזור לה וכל הזמן עפים רמזים כאילו יתכן שהם יחזרו להיות יחד. רמזים סתמיים בדיוק כמו מערכת היחסים של סטייסי עם ליאו שלא ברור בכלל מה יש בה.
למרות שישנן אמירות ציניות משעשעות לאורך הספר הוא לא מתעלה מעל כתיבה בינונית חסרת מעוף עם תעלומה שהפתרון שלה הוא בגדר בסדר וקסמים שלא בדיוק נמצאים שם.
February 22, 2011
Stacy Justice is a reporter in her small town but helps out at her cousins bar. When she is over there one night, a fire breaks out & insurance is claiming her cousin set the fire. Even weirder, they discover a decades old corpse in the wall & Stacy is determined to find out who the body belongs to. On top of that, she’s a witch & trying to deny it….but her aunts won’t allow that at all.
Opal Fire is Barbra Annino’s debut novel & the blurb alone caught Pam & my attention. Hello, exploding chickens? Yeah, we were in! I was a cackling mess reading this book, it’s full of the funny. I even stopped reading to write down parts that made me cackle, just to show you how much the funny is brought.
"Lolly fumbled around inside her cape and produced a bottle of milk, a poppy seed cake, and a bouqet of heather & myrrh. She set everything at the back entrance.
My mouth fell open. She was like Batman, except female, much older & less lucid"
Stacy’s aunt Lolly is umm mental deranged, she’s only lucid when she’s drunk. Lolly ended up being my favorite character in the series because the things she said & did killed me!
"I looked at Thor (Stacy’s dog) who was licking his carry-on bags."
OMG, that right there had me in tears. I will never hear the word carry-on without thinking of Thor & umm doggy bits.
The story was great, fast paced & you really had no idea who was the big bad until right near the end. I adored the pace that was set & the small town hijinks’s Stacy got into. You know if she was a city girl she’d have been locked up for a lot longer then she was (her boyfriend is the Sheriff).
If you want a fresh new series by a talented debut author, get your hands on a copy of Opal Fire. You’ll laugh, you will shake your head but most of all you’ll adore it!
Opal Fire is Barbra Annino’s debut novel & the blurb alone caught Pam & my attention. Hello, exploding chickens? Yeah, we were in! I was a cackling mess reading this book, it’s full of the funny. I even stopped reading to write down parts that made me cackle, just to show you how much the funny is brought.
"Lolly fumbled around inside her cape and produced a bottle of milk, a poppy seed cake, and a bouqet of heather & myrrh. She set everything at the back entrance.
My mouth fell open. She was like Batman, except female, much older & less lucid"
Stacy’s aunt Lolly is umm mental deranged, she’s only lucid when she’s drunk. Lolly ended up being my favorite character in the series because the things she said & did killed me!
"I looked at Thor (Stacy’s dog) who was licking his carry-on bags."
OMG, that right there had me in tears. I will never hear the word carry-on without thinking of Thor & umm doggy bits.
The story was great, fast paced & you really had no idea who was the big bad until right near the end. I adored the pace that was set & the small town hijinks’s Stacy got into. You know if she was a city girl she’d have been locked up for a lot longer then she was (her boyfriend is the Sheriff).
If you want a fresh new series by a talented debut author, get your hands on a copy of Opal Fire. You’ll laugh, you will shake your head but most of all you’ll adore it!
February 8, 2018
This book had me laughing out loud with the crazy antics of these characters and their sassy ways... An exciting magical mystery with unforgettable characters and a witty but smart dialogue that kept me invested in the overall storyline... I think my only mistake was not reading the prequel prior to diving into this book; it is written as though I should already be acquainted with these intriguing characters and their insane relationships which left me feeling slightly disconnected from the undertones of their connections; I will definitely go back and read the prequel and then happily continue with this series... 4 Stars:)
November 28, 2011
I had a lot of fun reading Opal Fire! Opal Fire was a nice break from most of the paranormal that I’ve been reading--there were no vampires, wares, or the fey. Opal Fire is an enticing mystery with lots of witchin' good antics.
Stacy Justice is working at her cousins bar when a fire breaks out. Stacy and her huge dog just barely make it out with their lives. Stacy is also a journalist and is put on the Opal Fire story…well OK she puts herself on the story. I was completely entertained reading Stacy’s character. She went from one disaster to the next, always just scraping by before peril ensues. I also love Stacy’s sarcastic nature and quick wit. I would say that I wanted Stacy’s dog as well, but after reading about said dog's nap time…lets just say I changed my mind. (Read the book to find out what I’m talking about!)
I loved all of Stacy’s family, especially the Geraghty Girls. The Geraghty Girls consisted of Stacy’s grandmother, Birdie, and her two great aunts, Fiona and Lolly. These women are all-powerful witches in their own right and they all had me in stitches. I would love to read a prequel that was all about the hijinks of these women in their younger years.
I thought Ms. Annino did a wonderful job in creating a small town were I felt like everyone would want to be in everyone's business. The pace was upbeat which kept with the fun. By the end I definitely wanted the bad guy to be hit by a bus, (If you read my reviews you know by now it’s important for me to hate the villain.) a bus is always my weapon of choice I have no idea why:)
If your looking for something fun to beat the monotony, you should read Opal Fire. I know I will be continuing the series.
Happy Reading,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
Stacy Justice is working at her cousins bar when a fire breaks out. Stacy and her huge dog just barely make it out with their lives. Stacy is also a journalist and is put on the Opal Fire story…well OK she puts herself on the story. I was completely entertained reading Stacy’s character. She went from one disaster to the next, always just scraping by before peril ensues. I also love Stacy’s sarcastic nature and quick wit. I would say that I wanted Stacy’s dog as well, but after reading about said dog's nap time…lets just say I changed my mind. (Read the book to find out what I’m talking about!)
I loved all of Stacy’s family, especially the Geraghty Girls. The Geraghty Girls consisted of Stacy’s grandmother, Birdie, and her two great aunts, Fiona and Lolly. These women are all-powerful witches in their own right and they all had me in stitches. I would love to read a prequel that was all about the hijinks of these women in their younger years.
I thought Ms. Annino did a wonderful job in creating a small town were I felt like everyone would want to be in everyone's business. The pace was upbeat which kept with the fun. By the end I definitely wanted the bad guy to be hit by a bus, (If you read my reviews you know by now it’s important for me to hate the villain.) a bus is always my weapon of choice I have no idea why:)
If your looking for something fun to beat the monotony, you should read Opal Fire. I know I will be continuing the series.
Happy Reading,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
January 21, 2012
This story has many characteristics of the cozy mystery - the over-the-top characters, the mystery being investigated by someone not a part of the police force and the attempts by the culprit to keep the amateur investigator away from the case.
There is also a paranormal aspect in that Stacy, the main character, is a witch though she remembers none of her training and has no faith in it.
All of these elements added to an intriguing mystery should have created an enjoyable book. While for the most part it was ok, it fell down for me in a couple of places. The main character had a backstory that didn't seem to fit her character of today which created for me a bit of a disconnect as if the character was incomplete.
The actual plot also didn't resonate with me too much because there just seemed to be too many unanswered questions, inexplicable actions and illogical events that made the plot seem to me to lurch along in stops and starts instead of flow from one scene to another.
I have to admit that I did enjoy the parts of the story that contained Thor the Great Dane. He was my favorite character.
There is also a paranormal aspect in that Stacy, the main character, is a witch though she remembers none of her training and has no faith in it.
All of these elements added to an intriguing mystery should have created an enjoyable book. While for the most part it was ok, it fell down for me in a couple of places. The main character had a backstory that didn't seem to fit her character of today which created for me a bit of a disconnect as if the character was incomplete.
The actual plot also didn't resonate with me too much because there just seemed to be too many unanswered questions, inexplicable actions and illogical events that made the plot seem to me to lurch along in stops and starts instead of flow from one scene to another.
I have to admit that I did enjoy the parts of the story that contained Thor the Great Dane. He was my favorite character.
April 24, 2021
Die Reporterin Stacy will einen Brand aufklären, einen Mord, soll hexen lernen, während sich ihre Familie einmischt, sie ihrem Freund (Polizist) bei den Ermittlungen dazwischenfunkt und sie selbst einen übereifrigen Fotografen an die Seite gestellt bekommt, etc. - wie man an der Zusammenfassung erkennt, war die Story leider etwas chaotisch und ich fand die Charaktere extrem nervig. Nicht nur die Hauptfigur, sondern ihre komplette Familie. Dass es um eine Mordermittlung und Fantasy handelte, ging bei all den nervigen Gesprächen zwischen den Charakteren fast ein wenig unter. Das Buch hat mir leider überhaupt nicht gefallen.
January 1, 2022
This was just a middle of the road read for me. Without giving away any spoilers - the author used a tactic in the story that made it easier to explain or figure out certain things that just didn't work well for me. I think the book was meant to be funnier than it was too. Not a bad read, but I'm not likely to continue with the series either.
January 31, 2013
Main character Stacey is described as hot shot reporter who is just comeback her hometown to help her witch family. She herself thinks that she is not witch, but her family thinks that she is. Which could work, but our main character is such dull witted idiot, that one could not believe that she could be reporter especially good one.
When Stacey's cousins bar is burned down and official start to claim that arsonist was Stacey's cousin herself, starts Stacey investigate herself arsonist case, which lead to finding years old body from bar's cellars wall, which starts series of events that seems to mean to scare or kill Stacey.
Other major character of book are:
Stacey's current boyfriend, town's chief of police Leo. But I don't understand what self abusive reason is behind of this relationship, as Leo don't believe or support Stacey in anything and he is also overprotective and over authoritative, for example he puts Stacey in cell for reason that she don't do as he says. And he don't seem to like or want to understand Stacey's family's beliefs. But still Stacey's says she would fight to last nail for him against person whom she describes as town's slut. It must be said that Stacey says that she don't like how Leo acts, but her body can't resist him (which only lowers my opinion about her).
Stacey's old boy friend is also in picture as major character who is also macho man, but is bit more supportive towards her family's beliefs, but at end to seems to believe that Stacey could too anything by herself and helps Leo to stalk her (and of course because of this he and Leo can come save Stacey after she has saved herself first and they can show that they were right in first place that Stacey can't do anything by herself).
Stacey's dog familiar works as comedic relief. Dog is described as her protector, but all what he does is to irritate Stacey and don't be there when she feels that she needs him and in end I didn't feel that he was funny or had any real reason to have so much page space.
Then there is Stacey's work partner Derek who is also macho man who thinks that he is hot shot reporter but but only think what comes through is sleazy paparazzi who hunts sensations even if there isn't any.
So book's plot could work, but characters are so dull, idiotic, single minded that I could only hate this book and myself as I believed those positive reviews here that I bought this book and finished it to trying to find out why people liked it, but I just could not find any reason, as book was not even funny as it's jokes comes out more as forced than natural.
When Stacey's cousins bar is burned down and official start to claim that arsonist was Stacey's cousin herself, starts Stacey investigate herself arsonist case, which lead to finding years old body from bar's cellars wall, which starts series of events that seems to mean to scare or kill Stacey.
Other major character of book are:
Stacey's current boyfriend, town's chief of police Leo. But I don't understand what self abusive reason is behind of this relationship, as Leo don't believe or support Stacey in anything and he is also overprotective and over authoritative, for example he puts Stacey in cell for reason that she don't do as he says. And he don't seem to like or want to understand Stacey's family's beliefs. But still Stacey's says she would fight to last nail for him against person whom she describes as town's slut. It must be said that Stacey says that she don't like how Leo acts, but her body can't resist him (which only lowers my opinion about her).
Stacey's old boy friend is also in picture as major character who is also macho man, but is bit more supportive towards her family's beliefs, but at end to seems to believe that Stacey could too anything by herself and helps Leo to stalk her (and of course because of this he and Leo can come save Stacey after she has saved herself first and they can show that they were right in first place that Stacey can't do anything by herself).
Stacey's dog familiar works as comedic relief. Dog is described as her protector, but all what he does is to irritate Stacey and don't be there when she feels that she needs him and in end I didn't feel that he was funny or had any real reason to have so much page space.
Then there is Stacey's work partner Derek who is also macho man who thinks that he is hot shot reporter but but only think what comes through is sleazy paparazzi who hunts sensations even if there isn't any.
So book's plot could work, but characters are so dull, idiotic, single minded that I could only hate this book and myself as I believed those positive reviews here that I bought this book and finished it to trying to find out why people liked it, but I just could not find any reason, as book was not even funny as it's jokes comes out more as forced than natural.
August 16, 2012
This book is one of many reasons why I love my Kindle. I had been eyeing this book for awhile, so when it was free I snagged it and now I am so glad I did. Where to begin, I loved this book so much. I just finished it tonight, reading it in one sitting.
I love Stacy and her cousin, Cinnamon they are such a great pair. Her whole family I loved especially her grandmother and aunts, they were such fun and unique characters. Mario not quite sure how I feel about him. The men in Stacey's life, I think I am kind of leaning towards Chance though by the end Leo warmed up to me more.
The story was such fun to read, I didn't miss the romance that I am usually craving in the books I read. I seriously thought I figured it out and the author threw another twist at me I did not expect.
If you haven't read this book, I highly recommend it, you don't know what your missing if you don't. In fact, I am reading the second book just as soon as I finish with this review because she left me hanging and that can't happen. I just have to know what happens next.
I love Stacy and her cousin, Cinnamon they are such a great pair. Her whole family I loved especially her grandmother and aunts, they were such fun and unique characters. Mario not quite sure how I feel about him. The men in Stacey's life, I think I am kind of leaning towards Chance though by the end Leo warmed up to me more.
The story was such fun to read, I didn't miss the romance that I am usually craving in the books I read. I seriously thought I figured it out and the author threw another twist at me I did not expect.
If you haven't read this book, I highly recommend it, you don't know what your missing if you don't. In fact, I am reading the second book just as soon as I finish with this review because she left me hanging and that can't happen. I just have to know what happens next.
October 23, 2017
Fun and entertaining
The start of the series of Stacy's witch adventures is off to a good start. She is sure to have some weird things to happen but Thor will be by her side so I'm sure things will get done without too much harm to her. I hope. This was a fun, entertaining book with a bit mystery of course.
The start of the series of Stacy's witch adventures is off to a good start. She is sure to have some weird things to happen but Thor will be by her side so I'm sure things will get done without too much harm to her. I hope. This was a fun, entertaining book with a bit mystery of course.
October 30, 2017
The story is mostly pertaining to murder, mystery, mayhem and witchcraft. I didn’t enjoy the book because it’s not one of my genres that I like to read. It basically deals with solving an arson (recently) & solving a murder over 10 years old along with understanding the skills she has as a witch.
Juvenile but funny. Cozy read but mysterious. Full of wisecracks but boring at the same time. Mayhem, clumsiness & deathly but full of incompetent people, especially the police force and mayor.
Juvenile but funny. Cozy read but mysterious. Full of wisecracks but boring at the same time. Mayhem, clumsiness & deathly but full of incompetent people, especially the police force and mayor.
December 27, 2012
THIS is what a cozy mystery is supposed to be! Fantastically done, and a debut novel, to boot! I can only expect even greater things from author Barbra Annino.
This book first came to my attention, and my Kindle app, when the blog "Pixel of Ink" listed it as a free selection. I 'bought' it but that didn't guarantee that I'd read it. What made me read it was the cover illustration. I know they say that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but it appeared to have the same cover stylings as another series of cozy mysteries that I really enjoyed: the "A High Heels Mystery" series by Gemma Halliday. And while I am on the subject of recommending cozy mystery series, let me also put in a plug for the "Jane Kelly" series by Nancy Bush.
So I judged a book by its cover and wasn't disappointed.
This is the story of a young sleuth named Stacy Justice who just so happens to have all the right connections, be in all the wrong places at the wrong time, and attract all the wrong attentions. In true cozy mystery fashion, you jump right in and necessary background is delivered in succinct way that a second book in a series does; the one where it says, "Remember when you learned this?" except that you haven't actually learned it.
Stacy is a reporter for her small town newspaper, but was helping out her cousin (and best friend?) in her bar when the bar catches on fire. This is where the story starts. It turns out that her cousin, Cinnamon, is Italian and has typical Italian family who love and feed Stacy. Then there is Leo, Stacy's boyfriend, who is Greek and the town's police chief. Add to that Stacy's other family: Her three elders in the form of grandmother Birdie, and great aunts Lolly and Fiona. The latter three are witches, as in real practicing wiccans who believe in using magic to gain clarity in a situation and encourage Stacy to do the same in the course of her investigative journalism. Stacy is hesitant, to say the least, about embracing this piece of her Celtic heritage and her skeptical-yet-witty commentary on the rituals she is forced to participate in make this a paranormal cozy with large appeal.
The story is fast paced with lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing. I had no fewer than three different perps in mind and it turned out to be none of them! Yikes! And the ending of the book is a cliff hanger, starting right in on the very next in the series. My wishlist now has a new entrant!
This book first came to my attention, and my Kindle app, when the blog "Pixel of Ink" listed it as a free selection. I 'bought' it but that didn't guarantee that I'd read it. What made me read it was the cover illustration. I know they say that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but it appeared to have the same cover stylings as another series of cozy mysteries that I really enjoyed: the "A High Heels Mystery" series by Gemma Halliday. And while I am on the subject of recommending cozy mystery series, let me also put in a plug for the "Jane Kelly" series by Nancy Bush.
So I judged a book by its cover and wasn't disappointed.
This is the story of a young sleuth named Stacy Justice who just so happens to have all the right connections, be in all the wrong places at the wrong time, and attract all the wrong attentions. In true cozy mystery fashion, you jump right in and necessary background is delivered in succinct way that a second book in a series does; the one where it says, "Remember when you learned this?" except that you haven't actually learned it.
Stacy is a reporter for her small town newspaper, but was helping out her cousin (and best friend?) in her bar when the bar catches on fire. This is where the story starts. It turns out that her cousin, Cinnamon, is Italian and has typical Italian family who love and feed Stacy. Then there is Leo, Stacy's boyfriend, who is Greek and the town's police chief. Add to that Stacy's other family: Her three elders in the form of grandmother Birdie, and great aunts Lolly and Fiona. The latter three are witches, as in real practicing wiccans who believe in using magic to gain clarity in a situation and encourage Stacy to do the same in the course of her investigative journalism. Stacy is hesitant, to say the least, about embracing this piece of her Celtic heritage and her skeptical-yet-witty commentary on the rituals she is forced to participate in make this a paranormal cozy with large appeal.
The story is fast paced with lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing. I had no fewer than three different perps in mind and it turned out to be none of them! Yikes! And the ending of the book is a cliff hanger, starting right in on the very next in the series. My wishlist now has a new entrant!
September 12, 2011
Opal Fire: A Stacy Justice Mystery (Volume I) by Barbra Annino is a cozy mystery with a side of paranormal and a chick lit twist. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, fun novel full of quirky characters and sprinkled with humor.
The book opens with a devastating fire at the Black Opal, the bar owned by Stacy Justice's cousin. When the insurance adjuster won't pay the claim because he insists it's arson, Stacy gets to work. Along with using her inside connections on the police force (her boyfriend is the chief), Stacy also finally, albeit clumsily, embraces her family's gift, witchcraft. While investigating the fire, she discovers a far more serious secret buried in the rubble that ends up putting her own life in jeopardy. Exploding chickens and other antics ensue.
In case you can't tell from the exploding chickens reference, this is a book that never takes itself too seriously -- lots more humorous situations as well as quips throughout -- but it never loses sight of the importance of moving along the plot and character development.
Going into this, I knew I could either really fall into the story and characters or just find it kind of silly and get bored quickly; it was all up to the writer and execution -- and Annino pulled it off. Beautifully. There's an air of Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum in there, so if you like that series, I'd strongly suggest giving Annino's Stacy Justice mysteries a try.
I love this kind of book when I'm in the mood for a light-hearted escape, which Opal Fire absolutely delivers. Looking forward to more from Annino!
The book opens with a devastating fire at the Black Opal, the bar owned by Stacy Justice's cousin. When the insurance adjuster won't pay the claim because he insists it's arson, Stacy gets to work. Along with using her inside connections on the police force (her boyfriend is the chief), Stacy also finally, albeit clumsily, embraces her family's gift, witchcraft. While investigating the fire, she discovers a far more serious secret buried in the rubble that ends up putting her own life in jeopardy. Exploding chickens and other antics ensue.
In case you can't tell from the exploding chickens reference, this is a book that never takes itself too seriously -- lots more humorous situations as well as quips throughout -- but it never loses sight of the importance of moving along the plot and character development.
Going into this, I knew I could either really fall into the story and characters or just find it kind of silly and get bored quickly; it was all up to the writer and execution -- and Annino pulled it off. Beautifully. There's an air of Janet Evanovich and Stephanie Plum in there, so if you like that series, I'd strongly suggest giving Annino's Stacy Justice mysteries a try.
I love this kind of book when I'm in the mood for a light-hearted escape, which Opal Fire absolutely delivers. Looking forward to more from Annino!
August 8, 2011
I wasn't sure what to expect from this series but it looked really good and had some really good reviews so I thought I would give it a chance and I am so glad that I did.
Let me start off by saying that I love mysteries and I love reading paranormal so to have them combined is just perfect for me and then to throw in a little bit of romance with two great guys to choose from and that is even better!
This was such a fun read. It had me laughing out loud quite a few times through out it. I adored every single character from her crazy grandma and aunts to her adorable dog Thor and the ending, well that one shocked me. I didn't see it coming at all and I can't wait to see what happens next.
This was a great first book in a new series, which doesn't always happen with new series but Annino pulled it off beautifully. I think anyone who loves the humor of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series and H.P. Mallory's Jolie Wilkin series will really love this book as well.
Let me start off by saying that I love mysteries and I love reading paranormal so to have them combined is just perfect for me and then to throw in a little bit of romance with two great guys to choose from and that is even better!
This was such a fun read. It had me laughing out loud quite a few times through out it. I adored every single character from her crazy grandma and aunts to her adorable dog Thor and the ending, well that one shocked me. I didn't see it coming at all and I can't wait to see what happens next.
This was a great first book in a new series, which doesn't always happen with new series but Annino pulled it off beautifully. I think anyone who loves the humor of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series and H.P. Mallory's Jolie Wilkin series will really love this book as well.
January 31, 2011
I liked this book very much. At first, I will admit, I was a bit overwhelmed with all the characters that were being so quickly introduced but by the time I hit mid book, I was hooked in the story and the characters settled in.
Stacy Justice is a Wicca whom is just learning her way. She has the help of the women in her family. It was an interesting angle to the mysteries. I wanted more knowledge of the gemstones and beliefs but as this is, what I hope, the first in a long-lived series, I will be patient.
There is a fire in the Black Opal Bar which almost claims the life of Stacy and her Great Dane, Thor. You will grow to love both of these characters as they work to solve the murders.
This book has terrific potential and I was honored to be given the chance to read it early by the talented Author, Ms. Annino.
Stacy Justice is a Wicca whom is just learning her way. She has the help of the women in her family. It was an interesting angle to the mysteries. I wanted more knowledge of the gemstones and beliefs but as this is, what I hope, the first in a long-lived series, I will be patient.
There is a fire in the Black Opal Bar which almost claims the life of Stacy and her Great Dane, Thor. You will grow to love both of these characters as they work to solve the murders.
This book has terrific potential and I was honored to be given the chance to read it early by the talented Author, Ms. Annino.
December 30, 2012
★★★☆ (3.5 Stars)
Stacy is not just a journalist for the newspaper in a small tourist town, she's also a witch from a long line of witches.
When there is a fire in her cousin's bar both are immediately suspected of arson, but more is going on. A body is discovered behind a false wall in the basement and the ghost of the murdered woman needs Stacy to catch her killer so she can rest in peace.
As Stacy starts to unravel the decades old mystery, the killer is never far away trying to stop her from finding the truth.
Opal Fire is typical of books in this genre. It's light and fluffy and not too taxing...just a good fun paranormal mystery with characters you love from the first page.
Stacy is not just a journalist for the newspaper in a small tourist town, she's also a witch from a long line of witches.
When there is a fire in her cousin's bar both are immediately suspected of arson, but more is going on. A body is discovered behind a false wall in the basement and the ghost of the murdered woman needs Stacy to catch her killer so she can rest in peace.
As Stacy starts to unravel the decades old mystery, the killer is never far away trying to stop her from finding the truth.
Opal Fire is typical of books in this genre. It's light and fluffy and not too taxing...just a good fun paranormal mystery with characters you love from the first page.
February 6, 2017
Quick read and decent start to the series. Things moved along at a good pace through the story as Stacy seeks to solve the mystery, at the end things raced along almost too quickly, scrambling to wrap it up. This mystery was wrapped up and left the thread dangling for book two. Stacy has spent her life trying to avoid her family history of witchcraft and just live her life, easier said of course. Cozy mysteries are nice fillers to keep you reading.
Probably would edge this to a 3.5, the solution to the mystery didn't jump right out as obvious, we followed Stacy along as she checked out different leads trying to solve the case that someone has taken great pains to try and scare her off of.
Probably would edge this to a 3.5, the solution to the mystery didn't jump right out as obvious, we followed Stacy along as she checked out different leads trying to solve the case that someone has taken great pains to try and scare her off of.
December 8, 2014
This had everything I enjoy in a book: mystery, witches, a little romance and a lot of humor! This is book 1 in the Stacy Justice series. Stacy is a reluctant witch, meaning she doesn't really believe she has power. I loved her grandmother, Birdie, as well as her great-aunts, Fiona and Lolly. This reminded me (in a way) of the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. As much as I love the Plum series, I like this one better. I will be continuing with this series. A big thanks to Allie for picking it for me!
February 21, 2015
Better than 2* but not good enough to get 3*. I don't know how I feel about this book. I felt obliged to finish it and it wasn't awful but I never really got into it. I didn't get particularly attached to any of the characters and got a bit annoyed at the plot. It was quite predictable (which isn't always a bad thing) but made it quite boring. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it, although I was quite excited to start it.
January 23, 2012
I've had this book sitting on my computer for a couple of months. I finally figured out how to transfer it to my Nook Color, and this weekend I finally read it. Stacy and Thor are the new dynamic duo. Maybe one day Thor will actually get it when Stacy tells him to do something. LOL
I loved the story and will be getting the next one in the series for enjoyment purposes.
I loved the story and will be getting the next one in the series for enjoyment purposes.
August 6, 2018
Really struggled to get through this one. It's about what you would expect from the cover art, though.
Stacy is a reporter, but she doesn't seem to be a very good one. She's also a witch, but she wants to ignore her magic (insert eye roll here). She lives in a small town and is surrounded by annoying people who I would never want to spend a minute with if they were real: a quirky witch family, a cousin named Cinnamon who is a brash bar owner with an awful personality -- this woman threatened to beat everyone up in the book without provocation, an annoying photographer at the paper. Come on, now. Why do you write such unlikeable, unrealistic characters?
The mystery was dumb, the characters were unrealistic, the dialogue stilted, and the love triangle unnecessary. 1.5 stars but rounding up because I do enjoy books with dogs.
Stacy is a reporter, but she doesn't seem to be a very good one. She's also a witch, but she wants to ignore her magic (insert eye roll here). She lives in a small town and is surrounded by annoying people who I would never want to spend a minute with if they were real: a quirky witch family, a cousin named Cinnamon who is a brash bar owner with an awful personality -- this woman threatened to beat everyone up in the book without provocation, an annoying photographer at the paper. Come on, now. Why do you write such unlikeable, unrealistic characters?
The mystery was dumb, the characters were unrealistic, the dialogue stilted, and the love triangle unnecessary. 1.5 stars but rounding up because I do enjoy books with dogs.
dnf
November 3, 2019I listened to about a third of this book and I have definitely read much stupider and more cringe-worthy cozies. There's no doubt that there are people who will enjoy this. Just not me.
Because *whispers* I'll never warm up to a character who lives in a world where magic exists and has the capability to do magic but goes 'Nope. Magic is stupid. I don't want to.'
Duh
Because *whispers* I'll never warm up to a character who lives in a world where magic exists and has the capability to do magic but goes 'Nope. Magic is stupid. I don't want to.'
Duh
December 24, 2015
Ihr findet diese Rezension auch auf meinem Blog!
Ich habe "Feuer im Black Opal" dieses Jahr in einem Goodreads Giveaway gewonnen. Vielen Dank dafür and Goodreads und die Autorin, Barbra Annino!
Ich habe „Feuer im Black Opal“ wie gesagt dieses Jahr in einem Giveaway auf Goodreads gewonnen. Es stand dann eine ganze Weile bei mir im Regal, bis ich vor einer Weile ein Buch für die Badewanne gesucht habe und mir dachte, dass so ein bisschen leichte Hexen-Lektüre dafür doch vielleicht ganz geeignet wäre. Dass ich mit dem Buch dann doch einige Probleme hatte, merkt man wohl schon daran, dass ich ganze acht Tage für etwas 250 Seiten gebraucht habe – und das, obwohl ich in den letzten Tagen wirklich viel Zeit zum Lesen hatte.
Es ist sehr ungewöhnlich für mich, ein Buch einfach nicht zu mögen, ohne es gleich zu hassen, aber bei diesem hier war es der Fall. Ich gebe mir bei sowas immer große Mühe, doch noch etwas Gutes an dem Buch zu finden, und schlechte Bewertungen sind bei mir eigentlich nur dann fällig, wenn mir wirklich etwas gehörig gegen den Strich ging. Klar, wenn ich wollte könnte ich mir auch hier ein paar Gründe überlegen, warum „Feuer im Black Opal“ diese Bewertung „verdient“ hat – es gab da zum Beispiel durchaus ein, zwei Dinge zwischen Stacy und ihrem Freund die mich wahnsinnig gestört haben, fairerweise muss man aber sagen, dass sie auch oft gut und richtig auf sowas reagiert hat – aber im Grunde war es einfach so, dass das Buch mir absolut nichts gegeben hat.
Mit seinen ca. 250 Seiten ist es wirklich nicht besonders lang, dafür aber irgendwie wahnsinnig langatmig und nichtssagend. Jede Seite, die ich gelesen hat, hat sich wie eine Ewigkeit angefühlt – da hat das furchtbare Format des Buches auch nicht unbedingt geholfen, hätte man den Text noch kleiner, noch enger zusammen und noch näher an den Rand gedruckt, hätte man wahrscheinlich gar nichts mehr entziffern können – und ich hatte wirklich oft nach ein, zwei Seiten schon keine Lust mehr, weiterzulesen, und hab lieber nach einem anderen Buch gegriffen. Wäre es kein Giveaway-Buch gewesen, das ich ja gerne auch rezensieren möchte, dann hätte ich es wahrscheinlich sehr schnell wieder abgebrochen.
Die Charaktere haben mir auch absolut nicht zugesagt – alle waren irgendwie komplett überzeichnet und wahnsinnig klischeehaft. Wir haben Stacy, die „starke Frau“, die genau so wie jede andere 0815-Protagonistin ist, wenn jemand sich vornimmt, jetzt doch mal einen „starken weiblichen Charakter“ zu schreiben: Frech, leichtfertig, in irgendeiner wahnsinnig komplizierten Beziehung, immer auf Stöckelschuhen anzutreffen, und natürlich von Beruf Journalistin. Dann gibt es da ihren Freund Leo, den Polizisten, der groß und stark und besitzergreifend ist, außerdem noch einen Haufen Klischee-Italiener, die ihre Familie sein sollen und nichts tun außer Spaghetti essen und zwielichtige, schmierige Geschäfte abzuschließen, ein unheimlich stereotypes Schwulenpärchen, eine Barbesitzerin, die ganz, ganz böse ist, weil sie mit vielen verschiedenen Männern Sex hat – ich denke, ihr versteht was ich meine.
Es handelt sich außerdem um ein Erwachsenenbuch mit Charakteren, die alle schon mindestens Mitte 20 sein sollen, sich aber durch die Bank wie 12-Jährige verhalten. Stacy ist mir als Protagonistin immer relativ fremd geblieben, was bestimmt auch daran liegt, dass Emotionen für sie quasi ein Fremdwort sind – das ganze Buch hindurch passieren um sie herum die schrecklichsten Sachen, die sie für ungefähr einen Nebensatz beschäftigen, bis sie sich wieder irgendetwas anderem zuwendet. Sie war einfach kein runder Charakter, ebenso wenig wie sonst jemand in „Feuer im Black Opal“ – und dazu waren auch noch alle Figuren wahnsinnig statisch.
Auch die Handlung ist eigentlich relativ austauschbar, wahnsinnig interessiert daran, wer denn jetzt der Täter war, war ich eigentlich zu keinem Zeitpunkt des Buches. Auch der Schreibstil war wirklich nichts Besonderes, teilweise war er sogar etwas nervig – wenn er zum Beispiel mitten in der Erzählung plötzlich komplett aus dem Muster gefallen ist, um absolut sinnlos den Leser direkt anzusprechen.
Trotz meines ganzen Rumgemäkels war es aber auch kein furchtbar schlechtes Buch – es war durchaus manchmal unterhaltsam und die zweite Hälfte hat sich deutlich besser gelesen als die erste – aber eben auch kein gutes – es war einfach nur okay. Vielleicht etwas, das ich mir für wenig Geld aus der Kruschkiste mitnehmen würde, oder etwas, das ich mir kaufen würde, um es am Strand zu lesen, wo ich ohne viel nachdenken zu müssen ein wenig unterhalten werden will, aber nichts, was ich mir – trotz des hübschen Covers – für 10€ unbedingt ins Regal stellen würde.
„Feuer im Black Opal“ war also ganz nett für zwischendurch, teilweise hat es sogar Spaß gemacht – obwohl ich auch immer froh war, noch etwas anderes zum Lesen dazuhaben – mehr aber leider auch nicht. Ich würde gerne sagen, dass man aus der Geschichte mehr hätte machen sollen, aber es war einfach alles so austauschbar und stereotyp, dass ich ehrlich nicht weiß, was. Schade!
Ich habe "Feuer im Black Opal" dieses Jahr in einem Goodreads Giveaway gewonnen. Vielen Dank dafür and Goodreads und die Autorin, Barbra Annino!
Ich habe „Feuer im Black Opal“ wie gesagt dieses Jahr in einem Giveaway auf Goodreads gewonnen. Es stand dann eine ganze Weile bei mir im Regal, bis ich vor einer Weile ein Buch für die Badewanne gesucht habe und mir dachte, dass so ein bisschen leichte Hexen-Lektüre dafür doch vielleicht ganz geeignet wäre. Dass ich mit dem Buch dann doch einige Probleme hatte, merkt man wohl schon daran, dass ich ganze acht Tage für etwas 250 Seiten gebraucht habe – und das, obwohl ich in den letzten Tagen wirklich viel Zeit zum Lesen hatte.
Es ist sehr ungewöhnlich für mich, ein Buch einfach nicht zu mögen, ohne es gleich zu hassen, aber bei diesem hier war es der Fall. Ich gebe mir bei sowas immer große Mühe, doch noch etwas Gutes an dem Buch zu finden, und schlechte Bewertungen sind bei mir eigentlich nur dann fällig, wenn mir wirklich etwas gehörig gegen den Strich ging. Klar, wenn ich wollte könnte ich mir auch hier ein paar Gründe überlegen, warum „Feuer im Black Opal“ diese Bewertung „verdient“ hat – es gab da zum Beispiel durchaus ein, zwei Dinge zwischen Stacy und ihrem Freund die mich wahnsinnig gestört haben, fairerweise muss man aber sagen, dass sie auch oft gut und richtig auf sowas reagiert hat – aber im Grunde war es einfach so, dass das Buch mir absolut nichts gegeben hat.
Mit seinen ca. 250 Seiten ist es wirklich nicht besonders lang, dafür aber irgendwie wahnsinnig langatmig und nichtssagend. Jede Seite, die ich gelesen hat, hat sich wie eine Ewigkeit angefühlt – da hat das furchtbare Format des Buches auch nicht unbedingt geholfen, hätte man den Text noch kleiner, noch enger zusammen und noch näher an den Rand gedruckt, hätte man wahrscheinlich gar nichts mehr entziffern können – und ich hatte wirklich oft nach ein, zwei Seiten schon keine Lust mehr, weiterzulesen, und hab lieber nach einem anderen Buch gegriffen. Wäre es kein Giveaway-Buch gewesen, das ich ja gerne auch rezensieren möchte, dann hätte ich es wahrscheinlich sehr schnell wieder abgebrochen.
Die Charaktere haben mir auch absolut nicht zugesagt – alle waren irgendwie komplett überzeichnet und wahnsinnig klischeehaft. Wir haben Stacy, die „starke Frau“, die genau so wie jede andere 0815-Protagonistin ist, wenn jemand sich vornimmt, jetzt doch mal einen „starken weiblichen Charakter“ zu schreiben: Frech, leichtfertig, in irgendeiner wahnsinnig komplizierten Beziehung, immer auf Stöckelschuhen anzutreffen, und natürlich von Beruf Journalistin. Dann gibt es da ihren Freund Leo, den Polizisten, der groß und stark und besitzergreifend ist, außerdem noch einen Haufen Klischee-Italiener, die ihre Familie sein sollen und nichts tun außer Spaghetti essen und zwielichtige, schmierige Geschäfte abzuschließen, ein unheimlich stereotypes Schwulenpärchen, eine Barbesitzerin, die ganz, ganz böse ist, weil sie mit vielen verschiedenen Männern Sex hat – ich denke, ihr versteht was ich meine.
Es handelt sich außerdem um ein Erwachsenenbuch mit Charakteren, die alle schon mindestens Mitte 20 sein sollen, sich aber durch die Bank wie 12-Jährige verhalten. Stacy ist mir als Protagonistin immer relativ fremd geblieben, was bestimmt auch daran liegt, dass Emotionen für sie quasi ein Fremdwort sind – das ganze Buch hindurch passieren um sie herum die schrecklichsten Sachen, die sie für ungefähr einen Nebensatz beschäftigen, bis sie sich wieder irgendetwas anderem zuwendet. Sie war einfach kein runder Charakter, ebenso wenig wie sonst jemand in „Feuer im Black Opal“ – und dazu waren auch noch alle Figuren wahnsinnig statisch.
Auch die Handlung ist eigentlich relativ austauschbar, wahnsinnig interessiert daran, wer denn jetzt der Täter war, war ich eigentlich zu keinem Zeitpunkt des Buches. Auch der Schreibstil war wirklich nichts Besonderes, teilweise war er sogar etwas nervig – wenn er zum Beispiel mitten in der Erzählung plötzlich komplett aus dem Muster gefallen ist, um absolut sinnlos den Leser direkt anzusprechen.
Trotz meines ganzen Rumgemäkels war es aber auch kein furchtbar schlechtes Buch – es war durchaus manchmal unterhaltsam und die zweite Hälfte hat sich deutlich besser gelesen als die erste – aber eben auch kein gutes – es war einfach nur okay. Vielleicht etwas, das ich mir für wenig Geld aus der Kruschkiste mitnehmen würde, oder etwas, das ich mir kaufen würde, um es am Strand zu lesen, wo ich ohne viel nachdenken zu müssen ein wenig unterhalten werden will, aber nichts, was ich mir – trotz des hübschen Covers – für 10€ unbedingt ins Regal stellen würde.
„Feuer im Black Opal“ war also ganz nett für zwischendurch, teilweise hat es sogar Spaß gemacht – obwohl ich auch immer froh war, noch etwas anderes zum Lesen dazuhaben – mehr aber leider auch nicht. Ich würde gerne sagen, dass man aus der Geschichte mehr hätte machen sollen, aber es war einfach alles so austauschbar und stereotyp, dass ich ehrlich nicht weiß, was. Schade!
August 22, 2018
Witchy good
Wow Stacy has her hands full. Stacy and her cousin Cin are up to their necks in danger as they solve a murder.
I really loved the characters.
Wow Stacy has her hands full. Stacy and her cousin Cin are up to their necks in danger as they solve a murder.
I really loved the characters.
April 4, 2020
I listened to this book while scrapbooking, I probably missed some of it because it just didn’t catch my interest. I will probably not read more in the Stacy Justice line.
November 18, 2023
I love how we immediately start with action in this book! I hate that it involves Cinnamons bar burning down and how them and the dog almost lost their lives. I hate that Monique gets all her customers as soon as Cinnamons bar burns down. I hated how Leo didn’t understand Stacy and how they end up breaking up. I hated that there was a body found and that Stacy was the one to tell the family. I was glad they found out who killed the girl and who burned the bar down. I’m loving these mysteries.
September 15, 2015
Stacy Justice, her cousin, and her dog Thor barely escape a fire set in her cousin's bar only to find that the insurance inspector suspects her cousin of setting the fire deliberately. Stacy sets out to prove him wrong and along the way she discovers a dead body hidden in the walls of the bar's basement. Stacy now sets out to bring the girl's murderer to justice. But as she digs deeper, her life is put in danger. Claiming her magical heritage might be the only way to solve the mystery and keep herself alive.
Let's talk about Stacy- stupid and feisty are not the same thing. I think the author has mixed up those two descriptors because every time she claimed Stacy was being feisty, I just thought she was being extremely stupid and reckless. Being feisty doesn't mean being indignant every time any person who cares about you tries to help you, keep you safe, or even save your life...which is pretty much what Stacy does. At one point, she doesn't want to talk to her detective boyfriend because she knows that he'll just want to know what she's been up to, which is prying into his active case and withholding important evidence, so she throws a snowball at his car and runs away. Seriously?? I mean, seriously? That's not feisty, that's immature and stupid. She continues to spend the rest of the book actively avoiding her boyfriend like he was the plague. At one point I actually had to go back and make sure they actually were dating. She resented him for caring about her. Yeah, caring's a real red flag for me too.
The secondary characters were pretty cookie cutter- the best/friend/sister/cousin/female character who is over protective to the point of being aggressive but who is more than willing to jump into blatantly dangerous situations with our lead; the love interest cop/detective/authority figure who is overly protective and wants our lead to have nothing to do with the crime; the secondary love interest who looks good and whose sole purpose in the story is to complete a possible love triangle; the overly vague but knowledgeable character who tells our heroine that she has great powers but then refuses to help her by saying that she has to figure things out on her own; the various shady characters that we're supposed to think are the villain but who are clearly just red herrings.
The story itself was weird and didn't flow well for me. The story starts right in the middle of the action with Stacy trapped in the bar fire. I listened to this book and actually started it over again because I thought that I had somehow skipped part. I'm a fan of starting things off exciting but this was too abrupt. It felt as though the the first paragraph had been omitted. The big mystery and plot driver is the fire and who set it until they discover the body in the wall. Then everyone jumps on board the murder express and the arson and all the characters involved in that no longer bear any significance.
The story also tries to balance two different genres but it doesn't do a great job. It just jumped back and forth between magic and mystery without weaving them together well. I think the problem was that there were two origin stories here. It's Stacy's first murder and she doesn't believe in magic even though it's been forced on her her entire life by her eccentric grandma and great-aunts. She's supposed to use magic to solve the murder and keep her life out of danger but she's too busy protesting her magical abilities for it to even matter.
The story ends with a big twist/ cliffhanger but I was just too irritated with everyone to even care about picking up the second one, not even to read a synopsis.
Let's talk about Stacy- stupid and feisty are not the same thing. I think the author has mixed up those two descriptors because every time she claimed Stacy was being feisty, I just thought she was being extremely stupid and reckless. Being feisty doesn't mean being indignant every time any person who cares about you tries to help you, keep you safe, or even save your life...which is pretty much what Stacy does. At one point, she doesn't want to talk to her detective boyfriend because she knows that he'll just want to know what she's been up to, which is prying into his active case and withholding important evidence, so she throws a snowball at his car and runs away. Seriously?? I mean, seriously? That's not feisty, that's immature and stupid. She continues to spend the rest of the book actively avoiding her boyfriend like he was the plague. At one point I actually had to go back and make sure they actually were dating. She resented him for caring about her. Yeah, caring's a real red flag for me too.
The secondary characters were pretty cookie cutter- the best/friend/sister/cousin/female character who is over protective to the point of being aggressive but who is more than willing to jump into blatantly dangerous situations with our lead; the love interest cop/detective/authority figure who is overly protective and wants our lead to have nothing to do with the crime; the secondary love interest who looks good and whose sole purpose in the story is to complete a possible love triangle; the overly vague but knowledgeable character who tells our heroine that she has great powers but then refuses to help her by saying that she has to figure things out on her own; the various shady characters that we're supposed to think are the villain but who are clearly just red herrings.
The story itself was weird and didn't flow well for me. The story starts right in the middle of the action with Stacy trapped in the bar fire. I listened to this book and actually started it over again because I thought that I had somehow skipped part. I'm a fan of starting things off exciting but this was too abrupt. It felt as though the the first paragraph had been omitted. The big mystery and plot driver is the fire and who set it until they discover the body in the wall. Then everyone jumps on board the murder express and the arson and all the characters involved in that no longer bear any significance.
The story also tries to balance two different genres but it doesn't do a great job. It just jumped back and forth between magic and mystery without weaving them together well. I think the problem was that there were two origin stories here. It's Stacy's first murder and she doesn't believe in magic even though it's been forced on her her entire life by her eccentric grandma and great-aunts. She's supposed to use magic to solve the murder and keep her life out of danger but she's too busy protesting her magical abilities for it to even matter.
The story ends with a big twist/ cliffhanger but I was just too irritated with everyone to even care about picking up the second one, not even to read a synopsis.
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