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Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #1-2
Magic Tides & Magic Claims
12 hours, 21 minutes
This bundle contains the following two long novellas:
In Book #1, MAGIC TIDES, Kate, Curran and their son, Conlan have left Atlanta, vowing to keep a low profile, and are settling into a new city and new house…but some things never change! Magical mayhem is about to erupt when Kate undertakes the rescue of a kidnapped youth, while Curran guards the home front.
It should be a simple retrieval, but with monsters on land and sea, Kate’s got her work cut out for her. Still, she's never let her blade dull or her purpose falter. And that low profile? It’s about to wash away with the raging tides!
In Book #2, MAGIC CLAIMS, Kate and Curran have just settled into their new home and their “low profile,” when a local businessman approaches them with an offer they can’t refuse. A mysterious evil has spawned in the nearby forest and is holding a defenseless town hostage. The “ransom date” is rapidly approaching.
It’s exactly the kind of fight the Lennarts can’t resist, not for the prize the town offers, but for the people who will surely die if they ignore it. If they succeed, they’ll be rescuing an entire community and can build a strong new base for their family and the Wilmington Pack. If they fail...well, fail is a four-letter word.
Nothing comes without a price. Now Kate must decide if she has what it takes to pay it.
This bundle contains the following two long novellas:
In Book #1, MAGIC TIDES, Kate, Curran and their son, Conlan have left Atlanta, vowing to keep a low profile, and are settling into a new city and new house…but some things never change! Magical mayhem is about to erupt when Kate undertakes the rescue of a kidnapped youth, while Curran guards the home front.
It should be a simple retrieval, but with monsters on land and sea, Kate’s got her work cut out for her. Still, she's never let her blade dull or her purpose falter. And that low profile? It’s about to wash away with the raging tides!
In Book #2, MAGIC CLAIMS, Kate and Curran have just settled into their new home and their “low profile,” when a local businessman approaches them with an offer they can’t refuse. A mysterious evil has spawned in the nearby forest and is holding a defenseless town hostage. The “ransom date” is rapidly approaching.
It’s exactly the kind of fight the Lennarts can’t resist, not for the prize the town offers, but for the people who will surely die if they ignore it. If they succeed, they’ll be rescuing an entire community and can build a strong new base for their family and the Wilmington Pack. If they fail...well, fail is a four-letter word.
Nothing comes without a price. Now Kate must decide if she has what it takes to pay it.
12 pages, Audible Audio
Published July 10, 2023
13 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Ilona Andrews
150 books33.4k followersIlona Andrews is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
July 25, 2023
I was thrilled to find out we were getting more stories in the Kate Daniels world! Magic Tides and Magic Claims are the newest installments. Kate Daniels is one of my all-time favorite UF series! Ilona Andrews is such a talented writing team, so I was all smiles diving back in!
With Magic Tides Kate and Curran have moved to Wilmington to get away from the Pack and have a more normal kind of life for their family. They wanted a place where no one knew them, their powers, their history. Of course, when someone is in trouble Kate can’t deny help. Especially when it’s their son Conlan requesting the aid for one of his friends. The friend’s cousin has been kidnapped by The Red Horn, a nasty criminal gang. When Kate finds out the details she decides to go and get him back. The father, Tom, is more than a little skeptical of Kate’s abilities, but has run out of options. However, his opinion changes as he sees Kate in action. And, oh boy, was it fun to see Kate in action again! Even when she’s embarking on a mission on the fly, she’s still several steps ahead of any opponent.
Magic Claims makes it evident that Kate, Curran, and Conlan won’t be able to stay under the radar, or avoid the responsibilities that come with the power they have. They all feel such a duty to those in need and both were born to lead. With Magic Claims, there’s an evil power demanding tribute from the town of Penderton in the form of human sacrifices. The deadline is coming for another payment, so the leaders reach out to Kate and Curran to help. Another exciting story and the end hints at more stories to come. I’m so excited!
If you haven’t read the Kate Daniels series, you need to drop everything and start it! You’ll love Kate, a smart, badass heroine and her Beast Lord hero, Curran! The plots are riveting, with action, mystery, danger and romance! I’m so happy to get anything more in this world!
There’s been one narrator for the series up until these two novellas. She was the voice of Kate to me, so of course I was worried to find out there would be a new narrator. When Hillary Huber was picked (I was part of the group voting) I was ecstatic because I knew Ms. Huber would make a fantastic Kate! Love her rich voice, gravelly voice, and her comedic timing is perfection! She’s taken on the role splendidly! Michael Glenn, a new-to-me-narrator, slipped right into the role of Curran and made him come alive in all his alpha glory! I highly recommend the audio! I listened at my usual 1.5xs normal speed.
An audio copy was kindly provided by NYLA via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
With Magic Tides Kate and Curran have moved to Wilmington to get away from the Pack and have a more normal kind of life for their family. They wanted a place where no one knew them, their powers, their history. Of course, when someone is in trouble Kate can’t deny help. Especially when it’s their son Conlan requesting the aid for one of his friends. The friend’s cousin has been kidnapped by The Red Horn, a nasty criminal gang. When Kate finds out the details she decides to go and get him back. The father, Tom, is more than a little skeptical of Kate’s abilities, but has run out of options. However, his opinion changes as he sees Kate in action. And, oh boy, was it fun to see Kate in action again! Even when she’s embarking on a mission on the fly, she’s still several steps ahead of any opponent.
Magic Claims makes it evident that Kate, Curran, and Conlan won’t be able to stay under the radar, or avoid the responsibilities that come with the power they have. They all feel such a duty to those in need and both were born to lead. With Magic Claims, there’s an evil power demanding tribute from the town of Penderton in the form of human sacrifices. The deadline is coming for another payment, so the leaders reach out to Kate and Curran to help. Another exciting story and the end hints at more stories to come. I’m so excited!
If you haven’t read the Kate Daniels series, you need to drop everything and start it! You’ll love Kate, a smart, badass heroine and her Beast Lord hero, Curran! The plots are riveting, with action, mystery, danger and romance! I’m so happy to get anything more in this world!
There’s been one narrator for the series up until these two novellas. She was the voice of Kate to me, so of course I was worried to find out there would be a new narrator. When Hillary Huber was picked (I was part of the group voting) I was ecstatic because I knew Ms. Huber would make a fantastic Kate! Love her rich voice, gravelly voice, and her comedic timing is perfection! She’s taken on the role splendidly! Michael Glenn, a new-to-me-narrator, slipped right into the role of Curran and made him come alive in all his alpha glory! I highly recommend the audio! I listened at my usual 1.5xs normal speed.
An audio copy was kindly provided by NYLA via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2024
I so LOVE returning to the Kate Daniels world and all it’s exceptional characters and astonishing world-building.
I read Magic Tides and Magic Claims when they first came out, so I’ll put those reviews below for you, but let’s talk about the audiobook.
Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn narrate the Wilmington Years which take place a few years after the original series and after Julie and Hugh’s series starters.
The audio narration for both novels is sublime! Hillary Huber does a glorious job with narrating Kate’s POV. The only issue I had was her voice for Curran I just didn’t fall in love with it like I loved Michael Glenn who narrated Curran’s POV.
As always I was captivated and inthralled. I listened to this in one day. Couldn’t stop. I love the humor, astronomical battle scenes, and characters.
I’d highly recommend the Kate Daniels series. Wither you read or listen you’ll be swept away into a magical adventure. I can’t wait for more.
Rated: 5 Stars
Individual Review on Magic Tides & Magic Claims
Magic Tides is book one in the Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years by Ilona Andrews.
This is part of the Kate Daniels world. We get to return to the world and see how Kate, Curran, and their son Conlan are doing after they left Atlanta.
Magic Tides takes the reader around Kate’s new community, including the local Order chapter, the Farm (home of the People in Wilmington), and the local Pack. It sets the scene for future escapades and potential allies and threats.
I adored and loved this shorty story. The tides have other plans then a simple quiet life for Kate, Curran, and Conlan. The story gives us multiple first person POV’s, but most are Kate’s POV. Even though the story is short it packs a tidal wave of a storyline rich with detail and a well-developed plot.
I love how solid Kate and Curran’s relationship is and how they acknowledge, respect, and understand each other. The banter is so much fun.
One could read this as a standalone, but fans will appreciated it the most. I’d recommend reading the Kate Daniels series. As a fan, I liked it and hope we get more stories.
Rated: 4 Stars
*****
Magic Claims is book two in the Kate Daniels: Welmington Years by Ilona Andrews.
Man oh man I read this in one day. I picked it up and couldn’t stop. I just adore Kate, Curran and the rest of the gang. I’m over the moon to visit my favorite world and characters again.
Kate and Curran can’t say no to a town in danger. We continue the Kate Daniels storyline in this deliciously breath taking installment.
Those coming to the sereis do need to start from the beginning to get the most out of this outstanding world.
Life for Kate and Curran is about to change. Kate is slowly realizing they can’t sustain the domestic life-style they have enjoyed for a few years now. She will need to face who and what they are which means getting back in the game.
The Andrews team know how to draw a reader in, building up the advance and let them enjoy a ride of their life. We are treated to duel POV’s; Kate and Curran. I love seeing their romance and partnership. It’s so strong. The core group that sounds them continues to grow and Conlan is such a cool child. It love seeing him grow up. As for the evil in the woods. It was cool to discover what was menacing the town and I loved the parallel made between the evil and Kate/Curran. The future looks to be interesting.
I will say I was hoping for more at the end with all the cool things Kate/Curren discover, but I am content. Maybe one day we will find out.
Magic Claims is a great mix of humor, magic, mystery, action and adventure. Urban Fantasy fans you must read this sereis. It’s an adventure you can surely enjoy over and over again.
Rated: 5 Stars
I read Magic Tides and Magic Claims when they first came out, so I’ll put those reviews below for you, but let’s talk about the audiobook.
Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn narrate the Wilmington Years which take place a few years after the original series and after Julie and Hugh’s series starters.
The audio narration for both novels is sublime! Hillary Huber does a glorious job with narrating Kate’s POV. The only issue I had was her voice for Curran I just didn’t fall in love with it like I loved Michael Glenn who narrated Curran’s POV.
As always I was captivated and inthralled. I listened to this in one day. Couldn’t stop. I love the humor, astronomical battle scenes, and characters.
I’d highly recommend the Kate Daniels series. Wither you read or listen you’ll be swept away into a magical adventure. I can’t wait for more.
Rated: 5 Stars
Individual Review on Magic Tides & Magic Claims
Magic Tides is book one in the Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years by Ilona Andrews.
This is part of the Kate Daniels world. We get to return to the world and see how Kate, Curran, and their son Conlan are doing after they left Atlanta.
Magic Tides takes the reader around Kate’s new community, including the local Order chapter, the Farm (home of the People in Wilmington), and the local Pack. It sets the scene for future escapades and potential allies and threats.
I adored and loved this shorty story. The tides have other plans then a simple quiet life for Kate, Curran, and Conlan. The story gives us multiple first person POV’s, but most are Kate’s POV. Even though the story is short it packs a tidal wave of a storyline rich with detail and a well-developed plot.
I love how solid Kate and Curran’s relationship is and how they acknowledge, respect, and understand each other. The banter is so much fun.
One could read this as a standalone, but fans will appreciated it the most. I’d recommend reading the Kate Daniels series. As a fan, I liked it and hope we get more stories.
Rated: 4 Stars
*****
Magic Claims is book two in the Kate Daniels: Welmington Years by Ilona Andrews.
Man oh man I read this in one day. I picked it up and couldn’t stop. I just adore Kate, Curran and the rest of the gang. I’m over the moon to visit my favorite world and characters again.
Kate and Curran can’t say no to a town in danger. We continue the Kate Daniels storyline in this deliciously breath taking installment.
Those coming to the sereis do need to start from the beginning to get the most out of this outstanding world.
Life for Kate and Curran is about to change. Kate is slowly realizing they can’t sustain the domestic life-style they have enjoyed for a few years now. She will need to face who and what they are which means getting back in the game.
The Andrews team know how to draw a reader in, building up the advance and let them enjoy a ride of their life. We are treated to duel POV’s; Kate and Curran. I love seeing their romance and partnership. It’s so strong. The core group that sounds them continues to grow and Conlan is such a cool child. It love seeing him grow up. As for the evil in the woods. It was cool to discover what was menacing the town and I loved the parallel made between the evil and Kate/Curran. The future looks to be interesting.
I will say I was hoping for more at the end with all the cool things Kate/Curren discover, but I am content. Maybe one day we will find out.
Magic Claims is a great mix of humor, magic, mystery, action and adventure. Urban Fantasy fans you must read this sereis. It’s an adventure you can surely enjoy over and over again.
Rated: 5 Stars
August 14, 2023
I missed Kate!!
I wanted to get this book, but was all ebook meh. But then I tried another audio streaming site and they had this one, win win! (I have tried 2/3 of the biggest ones here now. Some books none of them have :/
In this one years have gone by, Kate is trying to stay under the radar, but then someone kidnaps a teenager and she goes on a hunt. Curran just sits back and deals with the aftermath. I love them both. So supportive and just takes it all as it comes.
A good fight, a good story. I went on to book 2 at once. As this audiobook are book 1 and 2 together in audioformat.
Good narration. I did try the last Kate book in audio, but these two are new narrators and it works for me since I read most of the previous series.
Book 2.
Kate and Curran can NOT keep a low profile. Well I think Curran could, but not Kate. Someone comes to ask for her help and off she goes to help. But then these people really need help.
There is action, danger and just fun Kate and Curran times!
I really hope there will be more
I wanted to get this book, but was all ebook meh. But then I tried another audio streaming site and they had this one, win win! (I have tried 2/3 of the biggest ones here now. Some books none of them have :/
In this one years have gone by, Kate is trying to stay under the radar, but then someone kidnaps a teenager and she goes on a hunt. Curran just sits back and deals with the aftermath. I love them both. So supportive and just takes it all as it comes.
A good fight, a good story. I went on to book 2 at once. As this audiobook are book 1 and 2 together in audioformat.
Good narration. I did try the last Kate book in audio, but these two are new narrators and it works for me since I read most of the previous series.
Book 2.
Kate and Curran can NOT keep a low profile. Well I think Curran could, but not Kate. Someone comes to ask for her help and off she goes to help. But then these people really need help.
There is action, danger and just fun Kate and Curran times!
I really hope there will be more
August 9, 2023
Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn narrated, and I needed a moment to get used to the change from Renee Raudman. But both did well, even if Curran’s voice was less rough.
In Magic Tides, Kate goes to rescue a kidnapped boy and despite wanting to keep a low profile, she will battle sea gods. Snark, quick wits and tapping into her magic kept me engaged.
Meanwhile Curran & Conlan fortify their keep because an angry mob is on its way. After Kate destroyed their homestead. Trust me, they deserved it. They’ll have help and we get to see a taste of eight-year-old Conlan’s gifts.
As always, the Andrews pulled me in and held my attention. I love these characters, the humor and the fantastic battle scenes.
In Magic Claims, a town businessman approaches them seeking help. Something in the woods bordering their town has demanded payment of a human sacrifice each year, and this year demands two. If they will stop it, the town will gift them the woods.
The tale that unfolds was fantastic from the shifters who joined them to the entity in the forest and its history. It was dark and scary. Both Kate and Curran were kickass. We witness more of Conian’s skills and learn about things happening with the Atlanta pack. To top it off, they jammed the epilogue with information and hints on things to come.
I am loving the Wilmington Years and cannot wait for more.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
In Magic Tides, Kate goes to rescue a kidnapped boy and despite wanting to keep a low profile, she will battle sea gods. Snark, quick wits and tapping into her magic kept me engaged.
Meanwhile Curran & Conlan fortify their keep because an angry mob is on its way. After Kate destroyed their homestead. Trust me, they deserved it. They’ll have help and we get to see a taste of eight-year-old Conlan’s gifts.
As always, the Andrews pulled me in and held my attention. I love these characters, the humor and the fantastic battle scenes.
In Magic Claims, a town businessman approaches them seeking help. Something in the woods bordering their town has demanded payment of a human sacrifice each year, and this year demands two. If they will stop it, the town will gift them the woods.
The tale that unfolds was fantastic from the shifters who joined them to the entity in the forest and its history. It was dark and scary. Both Kate and Curran were kickass. We witness more of Conian’s skills and learn about things happening with the Atlanta pack. To top it off, they jammed the epilogue with information and hints on things to come.
I am loving the Wilmington Years and cannot wait for more.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 23, 2023
4.5 stars
While this is the start of a new series, you’ll want to read the series this book is based after, starting with Magic Bites. If you are a fan of Urban Fantasy you will love this series.
Ilona Andrews brings Kate Daniels back and it turns out she and Curran are not very good at retirement:
Kate and Curran have decide to leave Atlanta behind and start a new life near the water in Wilmington This is supposed to be a fresh start, no pack business, people don’t know who they are, they can just relax and focus on family. But one thing Kate and Curran have never been good at is not helping those who need it and when people need help they are the first to jump into action.
Any time Andrews is going to put out a Kate Daniels book, I know I am going to pick it up. They decided to release two novella’s this year, maybe to test the waters to see if a new spin off series outside of Atlanta would work. While these books were shorter, I did enjoy reading them back to back and I’m glad that Andrews kept some connection back to Atlanta in the form of some characters.
I think a change of scenery was what this series needed, not only for the characters but also for the storyline to continue. There is only so many times that Kate and crew can save Atlanta without if becoming redundant and let’s face it the last few books did follow a similar formula. There are some similar aspects here, but I think the addition of Conlan makes things different and there are different secondary characters that have come more to the forefront….. hello Kieran, I see you with your Claymore and whit.
I liked that Curran now had a full POV in these books along side Kate. I think readers have wanted this for a long time now and it makes the story more rounded.
My one with was that there would have been a hint of what happened at the end of Blood Heir, some sort of connection/timeline between the two. Though Kate does find out some interesting information.
I’m really hopeful that this will be part 2 of the Kate’s Daniels series and how the second novella ends it certainly feels that way. And I cannot wait to devour new books that feature Kate and Curran. If you enjoyed the first run of this series, you will enjoy this one as well.
Enjoy!!!
If You Like This,
Check These Out Too:
While this is the start of a new series, you’ll want to read the series this book is based after, starting with Magic Bites. If you are a fan of Urban Fantasy you will love this series.
Ilona Andrews brings Kate Daniels back and it turns out she and Curran are not very good at retirement:
Kate and Curran have decide to leave Atlanta behind and start a new life near the water in Wilmington This is supposed to be a fresh start, no pack business, people don’t know who they are, they can just relax and focus on family. But one thing Kate and Curran have never been good at is not helping those who need it and when people need help they are the first to jump into action.
Any time Andrews is going to put out a Kate Daniels book, I know I am going to pick it up. They decided to release two novella’s this year, maybe to test the waters to see if a new spin off series outside of Atlanta would work. While these books were shorter, I did enjoy reading them back to back and I’m glad that Andrews kept some connection back to Atlanta in the form of some characters.
I think a change of scenery was what this series needed, not only for the characters but also for the storyline to continue. There is only so many times that Kate and crew can save Atlanta without if becoming redundant and let’s face it the last few books did follow a similar formula. There are some similar aspects here, but I think the addition of Conlan makes things different and there are different secondary characters that have come more to the forefront….. hello Kieran, I see you with your Claymore and whit.
I liked that Curran now had a full POV in these books along side Kate. I think readers have wanted this for a long time now and it makes the story more rounded.
My one with was that there would have been a hint of what happened at the end of Blood Heir, some sort of connection/timeline between the two. Though Kate does find out some interesting information.
I’m really hopeful that this will be part 2 of the Kate’s Daniels series and how the second novella ends it certainly feels that way. And I cannot wait to devour new books that feature Kate and Curran. If you enjoyed the first run of this series, you will enjoy this one as well.
Enjoy!!!
If You Like This,
Check These Out Too:
July 23, 2023
Review for Audiobook 3 stars -- Review for audiobook content is 5.
The reader uses different words for things which is annoying. The way she says non English phrases isn't fluid or any love put in. The performance is so so. The guy who reads is ok but a bit boring. But the deeper voice worked for male lead. Because he had a lot of base. But it could have been better if there was actual performance behind it.
Frankly, for a best selling author who is an internationally praised one. This isn't the quality level I'd expect from audio book readers. If this was an unknown author I'd say simply audio book reader could have been better. Also, this book feels less southern. Which kind make the southern charm world building moments go a bit flat. Which they really do well in writing. I rad this book twice once pre-audiobook. Then the audio book reader but I don't think I'm ever going to listen to the audio book again from the current readers. The writers are carrying this but what I love about audio books is the performance of it. Just isn't here.
Just, this female voice is if Karen read urban fantasy. Too nasal. Almost like if she was going to the manager except hours long. I keep going on about nasal because when you listen to audio books you can get tired in your ears. So, husky smooth voice beats a higher nasal one for books over 10 hours longer.
It isn't awful it's just not very good. I gave it 5 stars simply because it was two good books. I like idea of the ending but ya... :( Never going to read audiobook Wilmington years again and it makes me extremely sad. Every 3 years I read the whole audiobook series from kate over again. Since it came out years ago. From start to end (except jims book) It sucks to not be able to do that anymore.
update
I looked up what happen to the older reader. It says she was bit more money and she doesn't do as much. There's a lot of voices that were starting to sound sameish. Which I'm not at fully because frankly she nails the emotional parts really well. But I can see the range issue. It also said they wanted to get "MAggie" which I'm guessing is Maggie Gyllenhaal which they couldn't get. But I listening to Maggie Gyllenhaal and it's not nasal so no ear fatigue issue. I hope they at least change out the female reader and bring back hugh for the male reader. Steve West, I'm not sure. Extremely disappointing.
The transcript with the interview is located here. https://ilona-andrews.com/blog/magic-...
Update
It was so not good it kind of stayed with me. It's like 2 days or so later. I'm still freakin just taken aback with the quality level of this product. I finally figured out the book readers had no seasoning. It was like eating potato salad with raisin and nuts. That person had one job to go to the cookout. Bring potato salad. You realize they can never be trusted to go to the cookout and bring food again. That is what I am dealing with. A person who reads a book in the south but has 0 Ice Tea in there voice. And you are thirsty on a hot day.
The reader uses different words for things which is annoying. The way she says non English phrases isn't fluid or any love put in. The performance is so so. The guy who reads is ok but a bit boring. But the deeper voice worked for male lead. Because he had a lot of base. But it could have been better if there was actual performance behind it.
Frankly, for a best selling author who is an internationally praised one. This isn't the quality level I'd expect from audio book readers. If this was an unknown author I'd say simply audio book reader could have been better. Also, this book feels less southern. Which kind make the southern charm world building moments go a bit flat. Which they really do well in writing. I rad this book twice once pre-audiobook. Then the audio book reader but I don't think I'm ever going to listen to the audio book again from the current readers. The writers are carrying this but what I love about audio books is the performance of it. Just isn't here.
Just, this female voice is if Karen read urban fantasy. Too nasal. Almost like if she was going to the manager except hours long. I keep going on about nasal because when you listen to audio books you can get tired in your ears. So, husky smooth voice beats a higher nasal one for books over 10 hours longer.
It isn't awful it's just not very good. I gave it 5 stars simply because it was two good books. I like idea of the ending but ya... :( Never going to read audiobook Wilmington years again and it makes me extremely sad. Every 3 years I read the whole audiobook series from kate over again. Since it came out years ago. From start to end (except jims book) It sucks to not be able to do that anymore.
update
I looked up what happen to the older reader. It says she was bit more money and she doesn't do as much. There's a lot of voices that were starting to sound sameish. Which I'm not at fully because frankly she nails the emotional parts really well. But I can see the range issue. It also said they wanted to get "MAggie" which I'm guessing is Maggie Gyllenhaal which they couldn't get. But I listening to Maggie Gyllenhaal and it's not nasal so no ear fatigue issue. I hope they at least change out the female reader and bring back hugh for the male reader. Steve West, I'm not sure. Extremely disappointing.
The transcript with the interview is located here. https://ilona-andrews.com/blog/magic-...
Update
It was so not good it kind of stayed with me. It's like 2 days or so later. I'm still freakin just taken aback with the quality level of this product. I finally figured out the book readers had no seasoning. It was like eating potato salad with raisin and nuts. That person had one job to go to the cookout. Bring potato salad. You realize they can never be trusted to go to the cookout and bring food again. That is what I am dealing with. A person who reads a book in the south but has 0 Ice Tea in there voice. And you are thirsty on a hot day.
July 21, 2023
Wonderful audiobook
Ilona Andrews has offered the first two books in the Wilmington series in the Kate Daniels world as one audiobook. It is performed by dual narrators and, in particular, the male narrator, Michael Glenn, is absolutely incredible. He narrates all the chapters that are from the point of view of Curran, Kate's husband. He also performs the role of Curran in the marvelous GraphicAudio recordings of the Kate Daniels series.
If you enjoy audiobooks, this is a great way to get both of the first two books of the fabulous Wilmington series for one Audible credit.
Ilona Andrews has offered the first two books in the Wilmington series in the Kate Daniels world as one audiobook. It is performed by dual narrators and, in particular, the male narrator, Michael Glenn, is absolutely incredible. He narrates all the chapters that are from the point of view of Curran, Kate's husband. He also performs the role of Curran in the marvelous GraphicAudio recordings of the Kate Daniels series.
If you enjoy audiobooks, this is a great way to get both of the first two books of the fabulous Wilmington series for one Audible credit.
July 19, 2023
Magic Tides & Magic Claims
I have read the novellas when they first came out so this review is mostly for the audiobook narration.
I thought the narration was great, fast paced and snarky for Kate Daniels is a must, it wasn’t overdone but made the story and characters come alive. I believe both narrators are new to the authors, but they didn’t skip a beat with the same pronunciations I was accustomed to from previous audiobooks in this series.
A fun magical ride with lovable characters, I just love to dive into any of the worlds from Ilona Andrews. ❤️
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook copy.
I have read the novellas when they first came out so this review is mostly for the audiobook narration.
I thought the narration was great, fast paced and snarky for Kate Daniels is a must, it wasn’t overdone but made the story and characters come alive. I believe both narrators are new to the authors, but they didn’t skip a beat with the same pronunciations I was accustomed to from previous audiobooks in this series.
A fun magical ride with lovable characters, I just love to dive into any of the worlds from Ilona Andrews. ❤️
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audiobook copy.
March 10, 2024
This was a re-read and one that was prompt on the heels of my first read of the ebook releases for both books. I couldn't resist knowing there was dual narration by narrators I'm familiar with and, because, why not, its Kate Daniels series.
Magic Tides and Magic Claims are the first two entries in the follow up series Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years to the Kate Daniels series. They take place a few years after the last of the original series and after Julie and Hugh's series in the Kate Daniels' world. They do not make a good place to jump in and new readers should start with the earlier series.
I enjoyed slipping back into the dystopian/urban fantasy world of Kate Daniels and catching up on Kate, Curran, and Conlan's lives along with the rest of their family, friends and acquaintances even while new adventures are pacing out for Kate and everyone. Conlan brings to Kate's attention that a boy related to their home contractor's family has been kidnapped. This sets off a chain of events that pushes right on into Magic Claims when Kate and Curran must decide if they continue hiding out and pretending to be 'normal' or burst forward and embrace who and what they really are- the daughter of Roland of great power and magic and he, the Beast Lord.
As usual, both books are packed with magical mystery and action-packed scenes balanced with introspection, description, and relationship. I love seeing Kate and Curran, even when apart, working as a well-oiled team and tight in their love for each other.
Loved that Curran had chapters of narration sprinkled in with Kate's and I liked both narrators taking those chapters as much as I anticipated.
Can't wait for what comes next in the series.
Magic Tides and Magic Claims are the first two entries in the follow up series Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years to the Kate Daniels series. They take place a few years after the last of the original series and after Julie and Hugh's series in the Kate Daniels' world. They do not make a good place to jump in and new readers should start with the earlier series.
I enjoyed slipping back into the dystopian/urban fantasy world of Kate Daniels and catching up on Kate, Curran, and Conlan's lives along with the rest of their family, friends and acquaintances even while new adventures are pacing out for Kate and everyone. Conlan brings to Kate's attention that a boy related to their home contractor's family has been kidnapped. This sets off a chain of events that pushes right on into Magic Claims when Kate and Curran must decide if they continue hiding out and pretending to be 'normal' or burst forward and embrace who and what they really are- the daughter of Roland of great power and magic and he, the Beast Lord.
As usual, both books are packed with magical mystery and action-packed scenes balanced with introspection, description, and relationship. I love seeing Kate and Curran, even when apart, working as a well-oiled team and tight in their love for each other.
Loved that Curran had chapters of narration sprinkled in with Kate's and I liked both narrators taking those chapters as much as I anticipated.
Can't wait for what comes next in the series.
April 8, 2024
Overall rating 4.5 stars
Magic Tides
Series: Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #1
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Kate, Curran, and their son, Conlan have left Atlanta and have settled into Wilmington. Their plan to keep a low profile quickly gets abandoned when Kate finds that a child has been kidnapped. While Kate hunts the kidnappers, Curran and Conlan protect their new home and the people within it.
I am so happy that we are getting more Kate and Curran stories. She is no longer the reckless hunter we first met, she is now a mother to an extremely smart 8 year old shifter. She has learned to temper some of her responses but she is still as deadly as ever. I love that motherhood hasn’t changed Kate’s deadly nature, if anything it's made her even more ruthless.
Curran may no longer be the Beast Lord but he is still the leader and protector he always was. I loved seeing him teach Conlan and praise him for his abilities. Curran and Kate definitely have a very strong marriage and I love how they trust each other, especially when it comes to fighting.
Wilmington seems to be an interesting town filled with some powerful people. The kidnapper provided an interesting challenge for Kate. I enjoyed seeing her think on her feet and fight using her abilities. I feel like we barely got to see that in the previous series and now she has no problem utilizing everything she has learned. It made for a very fast paced and interesting battle. Overall, I love this and can't wait for more books in this series.
Magic Claims
Series: Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #2
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
Well this was just as amazing as I was hoping. Kate and Curran may have settled into a new low profile life but they quickly realize that it will never stay that way. When they are asked to save a town held hostage by a mysterious evil they find themselves fighting an unexpected enemy and reevaluating their lives.
Kate and Curran continue to be one of my all time favorite couples. With each book I continue to fall more in love with these two and this book just continued that feeling. I loved seeing these two have frank discussions about their lives and how they made difficult decisions in the past that were necessary at the time but not exactly right in the long run. It’s wonderful to read an urban fantasy where I don’t have to worry about relationship troubles because these two are solid and completely understand each other. Also, I love how these two accept each other how they are and have never tried to change each other.
The evil in this book was extremely interesting. The magic and shifters introduced in this book was very unexpected and really kept me on the edge of my seat. Not only are we continuing to get new magic and creatures, but they continue to expand this world by introducing new towns and people. I am always amazed at this world that Ilona Andrews has created and how they continue to expand upon it.
Overall, this was an action packed book that I couldn’t put down. I am very eager to see what will happen next for Kate and Curran, especially since they are no longer trying to hide away. Also, I really hope we see more of Conlan in the future because he continues to be a very interesting child and I love how these two are raising him.
Magic Tides
Series: Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #1
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
Kate, Curran, and their son, Conlan have left Atlanta and have settled into Wilmington. Their plan to keep a low profile quickly gets abandoned when Kate finds that a child has been kidnapped. While Kate hunts the kidnappers, Curran and Conlan protect their new home and the people within it.
I am so happy that we are getting more Kate and Curran stories. She is no longer the reckless hunter we first met, she is now a mother to an extremely smart 8 year old shifter. She has learned to temper some of her responses but she is still as deadly as ever. I love that motherhood hasn’t changed Kate’s deadly nature, if anything it's made her even more ruthless.
Curran may no longer be the Beast Lord but he is still the leader and protector he always was. I loved seeing him teach Conlan and praise him for his abilities. Curran and Kate definitely have a very strong marriage and I love how they trust each other, especially when it comes to fighting.
Wilmington seems to be an interesting town filled with some powerful people. The kidnapper provided an interesting challenge for Kate. I enjoyed seeing her think on her feet and fight using her abilities. I feel like we barely got to see that in the previous series and now she has no problem utilizing everything she has learned. It made for a very fast paced and interesting battle. Overall, I love this and can't wait for more books in this series.
Magic Claims
Series: Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #2
Rating: 5 stars - I loved it!
Well this was just as amazing as I was hoping. Kate and Curran may have settled into a new low profile life but they quickly realize that it will never stay that way. When they are asked to save a town held hostage by a mysterious evil they find themselves fighting an unexpected enemy and reevaluating their lives.
Kate and Curran continue to be one of my all time favorite couples. With each book I continue to fall more in love with these two and this book just continued that feeling. I loved seeing these two have frank discussions about their lives and how they made difficult decisions in the past that were necessary at the time but not exactly right in the long run. It’s wonderful to read an urban fantasy where I don’t have to worry about relationship troubles because these two are solid and completely understand each other. Also, I love how these two accept each other how they are and have never tried to change each other.
The evil in this book was extremely interesting. The magic and shifters introduced in this book was very unexpected and really kept me on the edge of my seat. Not only are we continuing to get new magic and creatures, but they continue to expand this world by introducing new towns and people. I am always amazed at this world that Ilona Andrews has created and how they continue to expand upon it.
Overall, this was an action packed book that I couldn’t put down. I am very eager to see what will happen next for Kate and Curran, especially since they are no longer trying to hide away. Also, I really hope we see more of Conlan in the future because he continues to be a very interesting child and I love how these two are raising him.
August 21, 2023
I didn't realize how much I missed Kate Daniels until I started reading this. Like going home to visit old friends. I love being back in Kate’s world and seeing what Kate, Curran and Conlan been up to since we last saw them. Reading this felt effortless despite the almost 10 year break in the story. The authors did an amazing job at summarizing what we missed while we were gone, at the same time introducing us to new locations and characters. There was just the right amount of backstory. Everything was explained easily without feeling like info-dumping. With Magic Tides being a novella, the authors utilized every single word and space given. There was a lot of moving plots and characters but never once did I feel lost or rushed. I loved it!
In Magic Claims it was made even more obvious how great it is visiting old characters we’ve come to know and love but this new group of characters were just as fun and interesting and I can’t wait to see more of them! You can expect everything you love about the Kate Daniels series in this recent addition such as; snarky banter, kick-butt action, humor and just overall great and engaging storytelling. I liked both the action and the worldbuilding. Every second of this story is enthralling. There is plenty of exciting action but, above all else, this is a character-centric story. I also liked that it was told from both Kate and Curran's viewpoints. It was refreshing compared to the original series. I am looking forward to more stories from Kate’s world, hopefully we won’t have to wait another couple of years!
Last but not least, I listened to an audio version of this book and the narrators both did a great job! It was great and I definitely recommend that if you enjoy listening to your books.
***I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
In Magic Claims it was made even more obvious how great it is visiting old characters we’ve come to know and love but this new group of characters were just as fun and interesting and I can’t wait to see more of them! You can expect everything you love about the Kate Daniels series in this recent addition such as; snarky banter, kick-butt action, humor and just overall great and engaging storytelling. I liked both the action and the worldbuilding. Every second of this story is enthralling. There is plenty of exciting action but, above all else, this is a character-centric story. I also liked that it was told from both Kate and Curran's viewpoints. It was refreshing compared to the original series. I am looking forward to more stories from Kate’s world, hopefully we won’t have to wait another couple of years!
Last but not least, I listened to an audio version of this book and the narrators both did a great job! It was great and I definitely recommend that if you enjoy listening to your books.
***I received this book for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 19, 2024
All right, upping to 4.5 for Magic Claims too, so 4.5 overall for this bundle! I was curious to see what I'd make of Hillary Huber's version of Kate and I'm pleased to say I really liked her performance! She reminds me a little of the OG narrator, Renée Raudman, except that Raudman perhaps sounds a little more abrasive. So, with Nora Sofyan in the GraphicAudio adaptations as well, I really love all three narrators for Kate and they all bring her to life really well and in slightly different ways. Here, I particularly loved how Huber voiced all the funny scenes. 😆 Also the little interaction between Kate and [redacted] is too good - I need MORE!!
I'm in an Ilona Andrews mood now, so I'll be rereading Julie's book next, but via audio this time, so let's see how that goes!
I'm in an Ilona Andrews mood now, so I'll be rereading Julie's book next, but via audio this time, so let's see how that goes!
September 7, 2024
Whoa, I was thrilled to read this book and meet Conlan. I just realized I missed a few books in the prior series, but it didn't detract my love for Magic Tides & Magic Claims. There was so much character development for Curran and Kate, but esp. for Kate. And Conlan is so interesting. I can't wait to see how he grows up.
August 8, 2023
This audio duo was fantastic.
The stories were fab in this new envisaging of Kate Daniels life.
Narration was spot on in bringing it all to life.
The stories were fab in this new envisaging of Kate Daniels life.
Narration was spot on in bringing it all to life.
November 26, 2023
This was another fun listen for me. Great characters, wonderful worldbuilding and an interesting plot.
July 15, 2023
I’m a huge fan of the series. I bought and read the Wilmington books, both of them, I loved them. When the audiobook came out, I immediately purchased it. I expected the original voice performer from the whole series to do the book, and was surprised to find someone new. She did a good job, but if she pronounces Mahon as Mon one more time I'm gonna scream.
October 22, 2025
2025 relisten: Still think I should get double credit. Anyways, not much to add except to put in my wish for a continuation of Kate and Curran's Wilmington adventures and that Graphic Audio will pick these two books up for the full cast treatment.Original review: I should get credit for two books toward my reading challenge. LOL Okay. The further adventures of Kate and Curran. Conlan, their son, who was a baby in MAGIC TRIUMPHS is now 8 (or 9--not sure) and due to circumstances and on account of because (reasons explained in a Kate/Curran exchange in MAGIC CLAIMS), they've moved to Wilmington, North Carolina and are renovating an old fort. They are there for Conlan to attend a special school. They are trying to be low key. Everyone familiar with these characters are laughing at this. Because...reasons. Anyway, crazy stuff happens. Kate picks up followers from her father. Curran picks up pack from...well, the pack. Things in Atlantic are...not so great. Anyway, so much for low key when a nearby town asks them for help and offers them the haunted and/or enchanted forest where the bad nasty lives if they take care of the bad nasty. Weird things appear. People disappear. Kate does Kate. Curran does Curran. And they all live happily ever after until the next book. Which I hope is sooner than later. There is foreshadowing here about things that happen in BLOOD HEIR, which came out some time ago and didn't make a whole lot of sense at the time but now it does. Anyway, read the series in order. I'm still confused on bow-dah vs. boo-dah but I liked the narrators. 4.5 stars boosted to 5 because I'm a fangirl.
July 26, 2023
The story is great as usual, but the new audio narrator doesn’t suit Kate at all to me. Huber’s voice is pretty run of the mill and that makes it hard to focus on the book. I had to keep rewinding.
July 15, 2023
This year Ilona Andrews has graced us with two (2!) new Kate Daniels books. The two novellas have been gathered into a 2 audiobook collection. Hillary Huber does the bulk of the narration with Michael Glenn narrating Curran’s point of view chapters. I’ve been reading the Kate Daniels books for more than a decade, but this is the first time I’ve listened to a Kate Daniels audiobook. It took me a while to warm up to Huber’s voice. I don’t love her style, but it’s fine. Once I got used to it, it didn’t detract from the story. Michael Glenn has a deep, rich voice, as one would expect from Curran. I think my biggest issues with Huber are that she occasionally sounds like a tiktok auto narration voice, and that she doesn’t quite vibe with the Kate voice in my head. I did love listening to the stories and once the story got going, so did she.
The novellas, Magic Tides and Magic Claims, give us Kate, Curran, and their son Conlan starting fresh-ish in Wilmington, North Carolina. While they can mostly leave the politics of Atlanta behind, they are too powerful to truly be low key. Curran’s love of fortresses and Kate’s ability to explode things with power words make low key a fantasy.
The one thing that bothers me, and has bothered me for quite a while, is the direction they’ve gone with Jim and Dali. Jim is the one of a very few major Black character in the Kate Daniels world. So his move from friend to almost antagonist makes me uncomfortable. I don’t have a prescription for what they need to do to fix it, but I’m going on record to say that I’ve been uncomfortable with this since at least Magic Triumphs.
Magic Claims sets up some interesting directions for future stories to go. With low key going out the door before we hit the middle of Magic Tides, Kate and Curran reassess their goals and for the first time, embrace who they are in a more wholistic way.
I received this as an advance listener copy from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.
The novellas, Magic Tides and Magic Claims, give us Kate, Curran, and their son Conlan starting fresh-ish in Wilmington, North Carolina. While they can mostly leave the politics of Atlanta behind, they are too powerful to truly be low key. Curran’s love of fortresses and Kate’s ability to explode things with power words make low key a fantasy.
The one thing that bothers me, and has bothered me for quite a while, is the direction they’ve gone with Jim and Dali. Jim is the one of a very few major Black character in the Kate Daniels world. So his move from friend to almost antagonist makes me uncomfortable. I don’t have a prescription for what they need to do to fix it, but I’m going on record to say that I’ve been uncomfortable with this since at least Magic Triumphs.
Magic Claims sets up some interesting directions for future stories to go. With low key going out the door before we hit the middle of Magic Tides, Kate and Curran reassess their goals and for the first time, embrace who they are in a more wholistic way.
I received this as an advance listener copy from Dreamscape Media and NetGalley. My opinions are my own, freely and honestly given.
July 21, 2023
Title: Magic Tides & Magic Claims -Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years 1-2. You need to read the Kate Daniels series first, not standalones.
Release date: 7/10/23, read 7/19/23
Author: Ilona Andrews
Book cover: love them, all of Kate
Format: audiobook
Run Time:12 hrs. 21 min.
Narrators: Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn. Love all the distinct voices, especially Keelan's Irish accent.
POV: dual Kate and Curran w/ Conlan thrown in once or twice.
Setting: Wilmington, NC
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Tropes: shapeshifters, magic, fae
Source: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily give my honest review and all opinions are my own.
Quick summary: Kate, Curran, and Conlan (8) have settled into a quiet life until Conlan introduces Kate to Jason-their contractor Paul's nephew. His brother Darin(a merman) has been taken by human traffickers- The Red Horn Nation. Kate can't turn away from helping anyone in need, so she and Curran do what they do best-help and fight. Magic Tides and Magic Claimed deal with land and sea monsters. Kate and Curran tried to relinquish leadership, but it's who they are. They start fighting and create a new Pack and Keep.
Content warnings/triggers: gory deaths, children kidnapped
Characters: Main and Minor
Kate-The ex-Consort with blood magic and Sarrat (her sword)
Curran- the ex-Beast Lord, ex-leader of the Pack in Atlanta
Conlan-their lion shifter son
Roland-Kate's father
Jushur and Rimush-Roland's former spymaster and his son. They swear loyalty to Kate.
Keelan-alpha of werewolves in Atlanta exiled to N.C. He joins them after reporting problems with Jim's (the new Beast Lord) leadership.
Cuddles-Kate's donkey
Review: There was plenty of action and suspense. Kate and Curran have epic battles and the ones in these two novellas were no exception. Kate and Curran made the decision to get back to protecting the pack and its business while training Conlan. Loved the Julie and Derek mentions, as well as Ascanio's possible pack leader challenge.
Rating: 5*****
Release date: 7/10/23, read 7/19/23
Author: Ilona Andrews
Book cover: love them, all of Kate
Format: audiobook
Run Time:12 hrs. 21 min.
Narrators: Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn. Love all the distinct voices, especially Keelan's Irish accent.
POV: dual Kate and Curran w/ Conlan thrown in once or twice.
Setting: Wilmington, NC
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Tropes: shapeshifters, magic, fae
Source: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily give my honest review and all opinions are my own.
Quick summary: Kate, Curran, and Conlan (8) have settled into a quiet life until Conlan introduces Kate to Jason-their contractor Paul's nephew. His brother Darin(a merman) has been taken by human traffickers- The Red Horn Nation. Kate can't turn away from helping anyone in need, so she and Curran do what they do best-help and fight. Magic Tides and Magic Claimed deal with land and sea monsters. Kate and Curran tried to relinquish leadership, but it's who they are. They start fighting and create a new Pack and Keep.
Content warnings/triggers: gory deaths, children kidnapped
Characters: Main and Minor
Kate-The ex-Consort with blood magic and Sarrat (her sword)
Curran- the ex-Beast Lord, ex-leader of the Pack in Atlanta
Conlan-their lion shifter son
Roland-Kate's father
Jushur and Rimush-Roland's former spymaster and his son. They swear loyalty to Kate.
Keelan-alpha of werewolves in Atlanta exiled to N.C. He joins them after reporting problems with Jim's (the new Beast Lord) leadership.
Cuddles-Kate's donkey
Review: There was plenty of action and suspense. Kate and Curran have epic battles and the ones in these two novellas were no exception. Kate and Curran made the decision to get back to protecting the pack and its business while training Conlan. Loved the Julie and Derek mentions, as well as Ascanio's possible pack leader challenge.
Rating: 5*****
July 21, 2023
I received this audio book from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media in exchange for an honest review.
Magic Tides & Magic Claims are two longer novellas within the Kate Daniels world, they come after the main series. I have not read the main series but I feel like Ilona Andrews did a really good job at making sure I knew everything I needed to know to enjoy these books. I am certain that I would have enjoyed them even more than I did had a read the main series first but I definitely enjoyed them on their own too.
Kate and Curran are so good together, the way he treats her just melts my heart! I'm probably going to go read the main series just to get more of them together because I love them so much! In Magic Tides the little family has just moved to Wilmington to try and start over on a more low key level. Of course that lasts all of no time at all before some stuff happens and Kate just cannot let it be. These two books follow their settling in and the events that come after changing their entire worlds but I think for the better. I don't know Kate that well but I don't think that she would have been happy long term living a quiet life. Conlan is such a smart kid and his parents are raising him right, I cannot wait to follow that journey. I mean I assume there is more...there has to be more, right?!
The spice level in this is about 1 out of 5 but it was a good little scene and romance is not the main objective in this book. I recommend this book even if you haven't read the previous series but if you're going to start somewhere you might as well start at the beginning. Check it out here.
Magic Tides & Magic Claims are two longer novellas within the Kate Daniels world, they come after the main series. I have not read the main series but I feel like Ilona Andrews did a really good job at making sure I knew everything I needed to know to enjoy these books. I am certain that I would have enjoyed them even more than I did had a read the main series first but I definitely enjoyed them on their own too.
Kate and Curran are so good together, the way he treats her just melts my heart! I'm probably going to go read the main series just to get more of them together because I love them so much! In Magic Tides the little family has just moved to Wilmington to try and start over on a more low key level. Of course that lasts all of no time at all before some stuff happens and Kate just cannot let it be. These two books follow their settling in and the events that come after changing their entire worlds but I think for the better. I don't know Kate that well but I don't think that she would have been happy long term living a quiet life. Conlan is such a smart kid and his parents are raising him right, I cannot wait to follow that journey. I mean I assume there is more...there has to be more, right?!
The spice level in this is about 1 out of 5 but it was a good little scene and romance is not the main objective in this book. I recommend this book even if you haven't read the previous series but if you're going to start somewhere you might as well start at the beginning. Check it out here.
December 13, 2025
The first of these two novellas is a solid 4. The other is a pretty good 3, but I liked the first enough I’m bumping it up to a 4.
Pros:
The first novella had the advantage on not needing to raise the stakes in any way. I enjoyed not feeling embroiled in the established politics and conflicts in Atlanta.
I think it was fun to watch Kate back to hiding who she was from various powers that be, especially now that she has an actual reputation of her own to hide from.
I enjoyed getting to hear from Curran’s POV occasionally.
Cons
I don’t really have any major complaints about the first novella. I do have two for the second.
First, the reveal of who the ultimate top dog in the middle of the forest was for me a bit underwhelming. I’m used to feeling like I’ve explored a different cultures myths a bit by the time I finish an Ilona Andrews novel. Now this being a more recent work and knowing they’re working on a full on Fantasy novel at the moment I could definitely see that’s the trajectory their writing was taking. It just felt a bit out of place here.
Second, I had to roll my eyes a bit at just how perfectly set up they are now for what comes next. They started the book with major issues in terms of lack of connections, wealth and a stronghold. And now? Well, they were gifted a ton of land and whaddya know it made them rich. And they now have connections with the Order and the nearby town because of course. Problem solved.
Content notes:
A few kisses in the first novella, very chaste. One sex scene in the second that is easy to sea coming and right at the end of a chapter so it’s easily skipped.
Pros:
The first novella had the advantage on not needing to raise the stakes in any way. I enjoyed not feeling embroiled in the established politics and conflicts in Atlanta.
I think it was fun to watch Kate back to hiding who she was from various powers that be, especially now that she has an actual reputation of her own to hide from.
I enjoyed getting to hear from Curran’s POV occasionally.
Cons
I don’t really have any major complaints about the first novella. I do have two for the second.
First, the reveal of who the ultimate top dog in the middle of the forest was for me a bit underwhelming. I’m used to feeling like I’ve explored a different cultures myths a bit by the time I finish an Ilona Andrews novel. Now this being a more recent work and knowing they’re working on a full on Fantasy novel at the moment I could definitely see that’s the trajectory their writing was taking. It just felt a bit out of place here.
Second, I had to roll my eyes a bit at just how perfectly set up they are now for what comes next. They started the book with major issues in terms of lack of connections, wealth and a stronghold. And now? Well, they were gifted a ton of land and whaddya know it made them rich. And they now have connections with the Order and the nearby town because of course. Problem solved.
Content notes:
A few kisses in the first novella, very chaste. One sex scene in the second that is easy to sea coming and right at the end of a chapter so it’s easily skipped.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2023
5⭐️ 2🌶️ 5🎧
I cannot tell you how happy I was to be back in the world of Kate Daniels. The original series is one of my top favorite series of all time and a huge comfort read. Reading this was like a warm hug from an old friend. I missed Kate and Curran so much.
Magic Tides was a short and sweet reminder of why I love Kate and Curran so much. Only Kate would take on a gang of 50 people looking for a good time only to find herself fighting a god. I love how Curran just stayed back and prepared for the inevitable chaos she would send his way. Conlin has grown so much since we last saw him and oh boy do Kate and Curran have their hands full with him.
Magic Claims made me feel like I was reading OG Kate again and I loved it so so much. Kate and Curran have such an amazing relationship. I love their banter and how they love and support each other. They are both total baddies and hilarious. My archaeologist heart loved the pre-historic elements of this book so much.
I cannot wait for more!
I listened to the audiobook and Hilary Huber and Michael Glen did an amazing job. Hilary was fantastic as Kate and I even really liked her voice for Curran. Michael had to take on a few accents and did a wonderful job with those. His voice for Curran was everything I hoped it would be.
I cannot tell you how happy I was to be back in the world of Kate Daniels. The original series is one of my top favorite series of all time and a huge comfort read. Reading this was like a warm hug from an old friend. I missed Kate and Curran so much.
Magic Tides was a short and sweet reminder of why I love Kate and Curran so much. Only Kate would take on a gang of 50 people looking for a good time only to find herself fighting a god. I love how Curran just stayed back and prepared for the inevitable chaos she would send his way. Conlin has grown so much since we last saw him and oh boy do Kate and Curran have their hands full with him.
Magic Claims made me feel like I was reading OG Kate again and I loved it so so much. Kate and Curran have such an amazing relationship. I love their banter and how they love and support each other. They are both total baddies and hilarious. My archaeologist heart loved the pre-historic elements of this book so much.
I cannot wait for more!
I listened to the audiobook and Hilary Huber and Michael Glen did an amazing job. Hilary was fantastic as Kate and I even really liked her voice for Curran. Michael had to take on a few accents and did a wonderful job with those. His voice for Curran was everything I hoped it would be.
April 11, 2024
Wilmington1&2 (audiobook)
What a fun way to get through these two novellas. I have invested in the ebooks of this series; listening is another reward.
Life after Magic Triumphs introduced changes for Kate and Curran. They withdrew from the Pack, leaving the Keep in Atlanta in Jim’s hands, and moved to Wilmington NC, to let their son grow up without the pressure of expectations and sheer nosiness of Keep life. They are intelligent people, they can handle a normal life - how hard could that be?
Their resolve lasts until Kate learns that a child from their renovator’s family has been kidnapped, and no one in authority is planning to take steps to retrieve him. When Kate realizes that this is actually a slaver situation, she moves to cut off all the arms and heads of that organization. Amazing.
Then a town approaching them for help with another problem - of some power culling them for an annual tribute - makes Kate and Curran reevaluate their priorities.
There is humor and pathos, charm and aggression, and death is meted out where appropriate.
What a fun way to get through these two novellas. I have invested in the ebooks of this series; listening is another reward.
Life after Magic Triumphs introduced changes for Kate and Curran. They withdrew from the Pack, leaving the Keep in Atlanta in Jim’s hands, and moved to Wilmington NC, to let their son grow up without the pressure of expectations and sheer nosiness of Keep life. They are intelligent people, they can handle a normal life - how hard could that be?
Their resolve lasts until Kate learns that a child from their renovator’s family has been kidnapped, and no one in authority is planning to take steps to retrieve him. When Kate realizes that this is actually a slaver situation, she moves to cut off all the arms and heads of that organization. Amazing.
Then a town approaching them for help with another problem - of some power culling them for an annual tribute - makes Kate and Curran reevaluate their priorities.
There is humor and pathos, charm and aggression, and death is meted out where appropriate.
Read
July 29, 2023This a review of the audio only. I will review/have reviewed the first two books as books separately.
I have listened to this at least 3 times and I don't think it has even been out a month. Well worth the one audible credit.
There are two narrators. One for Kate (she also does the Conlan POV) and one for Curran. He also does Curran in the Graphic Audio adaptations for the first two Kate Daniels series books released under that label.
The narator for Kate is good - I find her words occasionally really clipped if that makes sense. Mainly she isn't Renee Raudman who for me is Nevada Baylor (Hidden Legacy first trilogy) which pulls me out of the main series audiobooks.
He is great as Curran and I hope he does the rest of the raphic Audio adaptations and also does any subsequent audiobooks in this series.
I have listened to this at least 3 times and I don't think it has even been out a month. Well worth the one audible credit.
There are two narrators. One for Kate (she also does the Conlan POV) and one for Curran. He also does Curran in the Graphic Audio adaptations for the first two Kate Daniels series books released under that label.
The narator for Kate is good - I find her words occasionally really clipped if that makes sense. Mainly she isn't Renee Raudman who for me is Nevada Baylor (Hidden Legacy first trilogy) which pulls me out of the main series audiobooks.
He is great as Curran and I hope he does the rest of the raphic Audio adaptations and also does any subsequent audiobooks in this series.
July 11, 2023
I loved this book! And I really appreciated Ilona Andrews decision to combine these short novels in a boxed set. I also really appreciated their decision to use two narrators to tell these two tales. It's about time that Curran gets his own voice! And Hillary Huber and Michael Glenn were a perfect match up...
As y'all know Kate Daniels has been in an ongoing series, like always you should read the series in order to know what's going on and catch all the references. This boxed set makes a great segue into a spinoff series.
I love finding and posting quotes that amused me:
"We're cleaning up for bad people."
"A proprietary process of mixing it with water, corn starch, and sticky rice."
As y'all know Kate Daniels has been in an ongoing series, like always you should read the series in order to know what's going on and catch all the references. This boxed set makes a great segue into a spinoff series.
I love finding and posting quotes that amused me:
"We're cleaning up for bad people."
"A proprietary process of mixing it with water, corn starch, and sticky rice."
July 14, 2023
4.5 ***
I like the new narrators and the stories were good. I've noticed the fight scenes seem to be longer, more detailed and increasingly gruesome. The authors are such good story tellers, they don't need to resort to ripping out still beating hearts. I also wish the authors would pay more attention to how they label the familial relationships. Erra is Kate's Aunt, also Conlon's grandmother then great aunt. Hugh bounces between brother, step brother, cousin, uncle to some characters, etc. It's confusing and seems to change from book to book. Someone unfamiliar with the characters could easily deduce there's lots and lots on inbreeding and borderline illegal relationships in the family. I wish the authors would pick one familial term for a character and stick with it.
I like the new narrators and the stories were good. I've noticed the fight scenes seem to be longer, more detailed and increasingly gruesome. The authors are such good story tellers, they don't need to resort to ripping out still beating hearts. I also wish the authors would pay more attention to how they label the familial relationships. Erra is Kate's Aunt, also Conlon's grandmother then great aunt. Hugh bounces between brother, step brother, cousin, uncle to some characters, etc. It's confusing and seems to change from book to book. Someone unfamiliar with the characters could easily deduce there's lots and lots on inbreeding and borderline illegal relationships in the family. I wish the authors would pick one familial term for a character and stick with it.
October 10, 2023
Magic Claims
4.5 Stars
4.5 Narration
I love Kate and Curran, so much I had to complete my collection in audio format. Hands down, one of my favorite series.
I pre-ordered these books/ audiobooks. Kate and Curran's adventures are best told through audio,IMO. These adventures are fast-paced and action-packed. The narration of the Wilmington series is excellent! The narrator does well with male, female, and children's voices. It clearly makes it easy to identify each character. I had no problems visualizing Kate wielding her sword or Curran using his vicious claws!
Overall,the narration was excellent; I'm looking forward to the third book. It's so much fun to revisit old friends. I've been enjoying Ilona Andrews for over 15 years.
4.5 Stars
4.5 Narration
I love Kate and Curran, so much I had to complete my collection in audio format. Hands down, one of my favorite series.
I pre-ordered these books/ audiobooks. Kate and Curran's adventures are best told through audio,IMO. These adventures are fast-paced and action-packed. The narration of the Wilmington series is excellent! The narrator does well with male, female, and children's voices. It clearly makes it easy to identify each character. I had no problems visualizing Kate wielding her sword or Curran using his vicious claws!
Overall,the narration was excellent; I'm looking forward to the third book. It's so much fun to revisit old friends. I've been enjoying Ilona Andrews for over 15 years.
July 26, 2023
I haven't read the previous series from the author but I saw this one and it was such a fun listen!
So many battles and different types of beasts the main character is constantly battling! I will definitely check out more books from this author. Kate can't seem to keep a low profile, but I am here for it! It was such an action packed listen!
The narrators, Hillary Huber, and Michael Glenn did a wonderful job portraying the characters in the book. Michael for me took some adjusting too but once I got used to his deep voice, I began to enjoy it.
For the price of one, you get two books and I think it's a good deal! Incredible world building, out of this world beasts, and great characters.
A very special thanks to Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for the complimentary audiobook.
So many battles and different types of beasts the main character is constantly battling! I will definitely check out more books from this author. Kate can't seem to keep a low profile, but I am here for it! It was such an action packed listen!
The narrators, Hillary Huber, and Michael Glenn did a wonderful job portraying the characters in the book. Michael for me took some adjusting too but once I got used to his deep voice, I began to enjoy it.
For the price of one, you get two books and I think it's a good deal! Incredible world building, out of this world beasts, and great characters.
A very special thanks to Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for the complimentary audiobook.
August 16, 2023
It was a shock when I first learned that Ilona Andrews were returning back to writing stories through kates eyes. I enjoyed both story and I hope there is third book
And maybe when the son gets older there will be a story based on him. The plot
Of
Both stories were great and I enjoyed seeing kate and curtain realized they cannot Live a normal life. I was sadden about Jim and how his ego is destroying the pack but like Curran said the pack would have been destroyed either way. I am hoping someone good can take over it before it is destroyed I don’t know about ascanio but maybe someone who understands the pack and how not only save but change it for the better.
And maybe when the son gets older there will be a story based on him. The plot
Of
Both stories were great and I enjoyed seeing kate and curtain realized they cannot Live a normal life. I was sadden about Jim and how his ego is destroying the pack but like Curran said the pack would have been destroyed either way. I am hoping someone good can take over it before it is destroyed I don’t know about ascanio but maybe someone who understands the pack and how not only save but change it for the better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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