by Ilona Andrews
Series: Kate Daniels #7
Narrator: Renée Raudman
Length: 16 hrs and 23 mins
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Narration: 5 cups
No matter how much the paranormal politics of Atlanta change, one thing always remains the same: if there’s trouble, Kate Daniels will be in the middle of it…As the mate of the Beast Lord, Curran, former mercenary Kate Daniels has more responsibilities than it seems possible to juggle. Not only is she still struggling to keep her investigative business afloat, she must now deal with the affairs of the pack, including preparing her people for attack from Roland, a cruel ancient being with god-like powers. Since Kate’s connection to Roland has come out into the open, no one is safe—especially those closest to Kate. As Roland’s long shadow looms ever nearer, Kate is called to attend the Conclave, a gathering of the leaders from the various supernatural factions in Atlanta. When one of the Masters of the Dead is found murdered there, apparently at the hands of a shapeshifter, Kate is given only twenty-four hours to hunt down the killer. And this time, if she fails, she’ll find herself embroiled in a war which could destroy everything she holds dear…**Includes the bonus Kate Daniels story Magic Tests**
OMG..I am finally up-to-date with the Kate Daniels’ series and have now joined the ranks of fans waiting for more! Magic Breaks about blew my mind. As ya’ll know I am listening to the audio books narrated by the fabulous Renée Raudman. In the audio edition, we get a message from the author(s) as we have reached a pivotal point in the arc plot. I was glad since this almost read like the final book and that my friends would have been awful. Mind blowing, action packed and a superb example of the brilliance that comprises this writing duo I was left spent and wordless.
It is getting increasingly difficult to share my thoughts on this series, as I fear spoilers for those who have not yet met Kate. Therefore, I am going to try to break it down into dates and keep it to feels.
Coffee dates with Magic Breaks
First date: Barabas, our beloved weremongoose gives us a prologue at the beginning of our date, recapping what has happened and noting key players. I thought this aspect was brilliant and allowed us to jump right back into the story. We know Daddy dearest is coming and preparations are being made. Curran must leave the pack and travel to create alliances but before he goes, he manages to make both Kate and I swoon. His absence leaves Kate in charge of the Weres and forces to attend the Conclave. Despite everything that is happening Kate manages to keep her humor. Her snark causes me to giggle even as I worry. At the Conclave, a Master of the Dead is murdered and chaos ensues leaving Kate with a nasty ultimatum find the killer or start a war. Gads poor Kate cannot get a break.
“Where to now?” I asked.”Hold on,” Robert said. “I’m still . . . coming to terms with your mode of transportation.”
“Take your time,” I nudged Cuddles, turning her to give him a better view. Cuddles flicked her ears, lifted her feet, and pranced. Oh dear God.”
Second date: Andrews is pulling my heart in all different directions and taking us places I could never even have fathomed. Witches, predictions, Hugh and danger are at every corner. I feel like there should be tribal drums beating out, Daddy is coming. Scenes in the middle of the story reaffirmed my love of urban fantasy on audio. Raudman made me feel every emotion and taste Kate’s despair. I could barely breathe and lost myself completely in the story. I have never been more anxious in my life. Andrews scoffs at predictability leaving me very unsure of my third date.
“If your head explodes can I have your stuff?”
Third date: The final segment is breathtaking, nerve racking and heartbreaking. Can I just take a moment to say how kick-ass Kate is? Her protective nature and love for those around her gives her this incredible strength. We see growth in her abilities and Andrews created a panoramic view as the events unfold. Daddy dearest is strong and even I quivered in his presence. Leave it to Andrews to completely surprise me and move the storyline in a direction I did not expect. This series is completely addictive and the characters are amazing. Even the secondary characters gave me the feels, made me laugh and sometimes I wanted to run. Brilliant. Brilliant. Brilliant!
“Will I get nights of ecstasy?”
“And days. Ecstasy all the time.”
Bonus date: Magic Breaks includes Magic Tests a novella that originally published in the anthology, An Apple for the Creature. It is also available as a a standalone. I enjoyed this case featuring Kate and Julie. It has me adding all of the novellas from the series.
Magic Breaks left me breathless and in awe of this dynamic writing duo. Magic Shifts releases in August and I am excited to see what happens next.
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Berls
I haven’t joined the world of caught up folks quite yet… I’ve only listened to the first two so far. But I really enjoyed them! I’m excited to see that Kate is still such a strong character this far in, that’s what I love about her 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Oh they just get better with each listen Berls
Naomi
Yay! I am so happy you loved this book… wish I was up to date though…
I agree, Kate is definitely kick-ass and I love how she still is in this book. Nice review girl!
kimbacaffeinate
Catch up my friend..catch up!
Mary
YES!! This last one had my heart a-pounding for sure. Daddy dearest…now there’s a scary personage.
kimbacaffeinate
Seriously…thanks Mary. Glad you love this series and book too
Angela
Fablous review! LOVE this series. So glad you enjoyed it. I know how you feel about writing the reviews for this series as it goes along. It’s so good you really don’t want to spoil it. I just got done re-reading these books. They are GREAT.
kimbacaffeinate
Right..I want everyone to experience it for themselves!
Tyler H. Jolley
I’m glad you got caught up! It’s such a great series!
kimbacaffeinate
Agreed but now I have to wait..boo
Blessie (Mischievous Reads)
Ahhhh! I feel so out of place because I recently heard about this series but I haven’t started. I better pick up the first book soon. Glad you loved the whole series!
kimbacaffeinate
Oh I hope you decide to dive in and explore them Blessie!
Amir
I skimmed your review cause I’ve yet to listen to Book 6 but your rating is enough for me to know that this is going to be awesome! Can’t wait to get my hands on the audiobook! ☺️
kimbacaffeinate
Wahoo…enjoy Amir. I am excited for you.
Angela Adams
Wow! Five cups!! Thanks for the post!!!
kimbacaffeinate
I am in awe of this writing team Angela
Mariana
Love love love this series. Ilona Andrews makes the best books. I totally stalk her. Great review and welcome to the waiting party.
kimbacaffeinate
Right..I read Clean Sweep and Burn for Me too..I love their humor.
Sarah
I need to get caught up! I am just not getting into audiobooks, so I may go back and re-read by listening to the audio versions, myself. 😀 I love how funny the Andrews always is! I’m glad you are enjoying yourself with the audios. 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I agree..the snark and interactions make me gigglesnort!
Christy
I don’t want to read this! I don’t want to be caught up! I don’t want to wait for the next book! I can’t wait to see what happens! lol.
kimbacaffeinate
Ha..I know, and now I am digging out the novellas..lol
Benish
Yes to kickass heroines<3 This used to be on my favorite authors back in the day 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
I am enjoying everything they write
Melissa's Eclectic Bookshelf
Ilona Andrews is a husband and wife team? How awesome:)
kimbacaffeinate
Yes..what a dream job!
lily
You seem to be all caught up Kim! I still haven’t read anything by IIona Andrews but you always make me want to drop everything and read her books.
kimbacaffeinate
It would be worth it if you did Lily!
Heidi
It is terrific you are all caught up. I just loaded up book four on audio this morning, I am eager to continue and get to the end so I can wait with you. Loving this series.
kimbacaffeinate
Enjoy, and be sure and add Gunmetal Magic, it is a novella, but full-length and so worth it.
Sophia Rose
Good on you, Kimberly to get caught up. I’m still back working my way through Gunmetal Magic. I just quickly checked your rating and yay its high!
kimbacaffeinate
Oh that was a hilarious one for sure Sophia..enjoy!
Candace
I just used my audible credits but I think when I get more I might grab this series. I’m so glad you’re still loving it!
kimbacaffeinate
Oh I hope you do, book one was a little dark..but after that oh my..perfection!!
Lupdilup
Totally deserved 5 coffee cups!! OK, now we can listening twins when the next one comes out 🙂
Great, great review!
kimbacaffeinate
YES..totally. I really wish they would compile all of the novellas on to one audio.
Bookworm Brandee
:/ You’re now ahead of me in this series, Kimba. But I’m oh so happy Magic Breaks blew your socks off. I just might give the audio version a try. I’m still just dipping my toe in the waters of audio but if you think this narrator ROCKS Kate & Curran, I’m willing to dive in. 😉
kimbacaffeinate
I totally love this series on audio Brandee…cannot recommend it enough. Hope you catch up soon!
Ramona
I love it when an author can surprise you by taking the plot in a completely different direction! Wow, heartbreaking and breathtaking, huh? I’m definitely missing out by not starting this series … but I will. Soon 🙂 Another beautifully structured review, Kimba, great job!
kimbacaffeinate
Thanks Romana..I am having a blast with this series 🙂
Stormi
I am determined to start this series this year on audio, I have the first one. Every time I see a review I am like oooh I want to read this series…I will get to it eventually..lol.
kimbacaffeinate
The audios just rock Stormi, and the time flies..plus bonus your home will sparkle!
Debbie Haupt
Well if nothing else convinces me to get a book/series etc its a 5 star rating from you Kim because I know you don’t give those lightly.
This is a series I’ve been meaning to pick up, guess I’d better start soon 🙂
Thanks for the great review
kimbacaffeinate
Oh these are a must, I have so much fun in this world Debbie!
Jenny
AHHHHH! I’M STILL BEHIND KIM!!!! I hate being behind but I keep getting distracted by books I have to review. I need to make time to read these just for fun, I just love Kate so much. I feel like I might need some chocolate while reading though…I feel some stress coming on:)
kimbacaffeinate
This was intense, but so wonderful..yes you need to catch up before August!
kindlemom1
I have this one to read still but I was trying to wait until closer to book eight but you are making me want to read it NOW! I am so excited that you read and are loving this series Kim! Yay! Have a fabulous weekend!!
kimbacaffeinate
hehe..I don’t blame you. I am going to try and read all of the novellas 🙂
Nick
I’m so excited to get to this series this summer! Every review I read has me even more excited!! 😀 It sounds fabulous and Kate seems so bad-ass! I’ve gotta meet her and Curran of course! 😉
kimbacaffeinate
The characters just rock Nick..I cannot wait to see your opinion of the series
Red Iza
I haven’t started the series yet so I completely understand your enthusiasm about being up to date, congrats !
kimbacaffeinate
It feels good but now I will have to read more novellas to hold me over till August!
Alreem
wow this series is getting so much hype every where, I need to try it very soon 😀
kimbacaffeinate
I adore it Alreem.
Maja (The Nocturnal Library)
I’m so glad you’ve caught up! I adore the series! And definitely read the novellas too, plus Jim and Dali’s story which was just recently released. I really enjoyed it.
kimbacaffeinate
I was kind of hoping they would compile the novellas into one audio.
blodeuedd
I love Kate! 🙂
kimbacaffeinate
Me too Linda..I love the snark