Friday, December 25, 2009

Charmed to Death: an Ophelia and Abby Mystery by Shirley Damsgaard

Originally posted Friday, February 27, 2009
Just the series for those who like their witches gently turned out.

Number 2 in the Ophelia and Abby series, Ophelia, the apprehensive witch, finds herself stumbling alone without the guidance of her grandmother Abby, her trainer, tracking a witch-killer.

The troubles began with the death of Ophelia’s good friend five years previously, leaving her fearful of her destiny. Abby is the powerful witch but the two though able to perform many of the same feats, do not necessarily have the same gifts and Abby has the feeling that she will not be able to help her granddaughter on this mission. She can only give her clues as to what Ophelia’s visions may portend. The women of the family have passed down this destiny, skipping a generation here and there, one of the missed being Abby’s daughter, Ophelia’s mother. Abby gives Ophelia some ancient Norse runes that belonged to her great grandmother believing she will gain her insights through them. The runes come with a journal, and awaken deep feelings within.

After an accident leaves Abby in a coma, it is up to Ophelia, ready or not, to be strong and learn. She must be the one to complete the mission. This series of books is light-hearted, fun, and yet interesting. There are some continuing characters in the series, each well-developed or developing individually. I love these books and turn to one of them whenever I am in need of calming my mind from weightier matters or tomes. The promise shown in this, the second book, is something I look forward to in each and every one. Totally enjoyable, no vampires, beasts, or were-people, just two enduring and loving witches. A quick, easy read.

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