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Kate Daniels [Dramatized Adaptation] #2
Magic Burns [Dramatized Adaptation]
Down in Atlanta, tempers – and temperatures – are about to flare…
As a mercenary who cleans up after magic gone wrong, Kate Daniels has seen her share of occupational hazards. Normally, waves of paranormal energy ebb and flow across Atlanta like a tide. But once every seven years, a flare comes, a time when magic runs rampant. Now Kate’s going to have to deal with problems on a much bigger scale: a divine one.
When Kate sets out to retrieve a set of stolen maps for the Pack, Atlanta’s paramilitary clan of shapeshifters, she quickly realizes much more at stake. During a flare, gods and goddesses can manifest – and battle for power. The stolen maps are only the opening gambit in an epic tug-of-war between two gods hoping for rebirth. And if Kate can’t stop the cataclysmic showdown, the city may not survive…
This dramatized audiobook also includes the Curran point of view story Soup.
Performed by Nora Sofyan, Michael Glenn, Danny Gavigan, Kelly Baskin, Robb Moreira, Chris Davenport, Emlyn McFarland, Dawn Ursula, KenYatta Rogers, Drew Kopas, Eva Wilhelm, Jonathan Lee Taylor, Tia Shearer, Ken Jackson, Bradley Foster Smith, Yasmin Tuazon, Tony Nam, Earl Fisher, Tanja Milojevic, Ryan Carlo Dalusung, Sheree Wichard, Jacob Yeh, Michael John Casey, K'Lai Rivera, Bianca Bryan, Colleen Delany, Debi Tinsley, Christopher Walker, and Alejandro Ruiz.'
As a mercenary who cleans up after magic gone wrong, Kate Daniels has seen her share of occupational hazards. Normally, waves of paranormal energy ebb and flow across Atlanta like a tide. But once every seven years, a flare comes, a time when magic runs rampant. Now Kate’s going to have to deal with problems on a much bigger scale: a divine one.
When Kate sets out to retrieve a set of stolen maps for the Pack, Atlanta’s paramilitary clan of shapeshifters, she quickly realizes much more at stake. During a flare, gods and goddesses can manifest – and battle for power. The stolen maps are only the opening gambit in an epic tug-of-war between two gods hoping for rebirth. And if Kate can’t stop the cataclysmic showdown, the city may not survive…
This dramatized audiobook also includes the Curran point of view story Soup.
Performed by Nora Sofyan, Michael Glenn, Danny Gavigan, Kelly Baskin, Robb Moreira, Chris Davenport, Emlyn McFarland, Dawn Ursula, KenYatta Rogers, Drew Kopas, Eva Wilhelm, Jonathan Lee Taylor, Tia Shearer, Ken Jackson, Bradley Foster Smith, Yasmin Tuazon, Tony Nam, Earl Fisher, Tanja Milojevic, Ryan Carlo Dalusung, Sheree Wichard, Jacob Yeh, Michael John Casey, K'Lai Rivera, Bianca Bryan, Colleen Delany, Debi Tinsley, Christopher Walker, and Alejandro Ruiz.'
Audiobook
Published June 1, 2023
7 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Ilona Andrews
145 books33.3k 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 70 reviews
February 19, 2024
re-re-re-re-re-listen
Love the series always. I enjoyed listening to the Graphic Audio version as it just brings the story even more to life. Derek the Teenage Wonder Werewolf and Julie get there first introductions. Kate is really coming into her own. Bran grows on my a little each re-read too.
Kate and Curran's beginning is adorable and I love how he already knows but Kate is so clueless.
Bonus story at the end from Curran's PoV for the soup scene was added after the story. I like this is how they are doing the graphic audio's giving you any different PoV scenes that are in the story.
Great time again!!!
Sale Alert: This is one of my favorite all time UF series and the first few books are currently on sale $1.99
Kate Daniels Buddy Read/Reread on May 11 with the gang at Ilona Andrews Addicts (IAA)
4.5 Stars bumped up a half star from first read
Revisited review after Re-read on Jun 30, 2014
Ilona Andrews is an author I think I can re-read time and time again. I liked this book even more the second time around. The magic and mythology drew me in and the plot and story were even better the second time around.
I got excited when new characters, which will be around throughout the series, were introduced and the chemistry building and the slow burn between Kate and Curran is even more enticing the second time around.
But I didn’t know what it meant!”
Aunt B frowned. “Doesn’t matter. You need to be very careful right now. When Curran wants something, he doesn’t become distracted. He goes after it and he doesn’t stop until he obtains his goal no matter what it takes. That tenacity is what makes him an alpha.”
“You’re scaring me.”
“Scared might be too strong a word, but in your place, I would definitely be concerned.”
I lapped up all Kate/Curran page time together and saw new things I missed the first time. I loved Aunt B’s very apt description of Curran and now that he has his interests set on Kate I don’t think she stands a chance of resisting for long. Again the epilogue totally pulled on every hopeless romantic heartstring I have.
Onto Magic Strikes which was one of my favorites of the series.
Original Review Sept 24, 2013
Kate seems to have trouble follow her no matter what she does and no matter how hard she tries to avoid it trouble has her address and knocks softly at the door. In this installment the author shows us just how far the extremes of Kate’s world can swing as there is the equivalent of a typhoon of magic coming. Called a flare the ebb and flow between magic and tech become increasingly unstable and all the magical creatures are feeling the pull including Kate. It is a time when the gods come out to play and Kate needs to find a way to keep one in particular out of this world.
“You don't cause problems. An unpiloted vampire causes problems. You cause catastrophes.”
I enjoyed this plot arc more than the last. It could just be because I knew more about the world created here and could focus more on the story than in the last book or it could be because the reader get a more serious and deeper look into the woman that is Kate Daniels. Kate is a strong, independent and willful woman that can kick some serious butt. But, she is so much more than that and in this book I really was able to see the softer part of Kate, the part that motivates her to protect others and keep them at a distance. It is revealed little by a little a few pieces of her past until you are pretty sure you know where she comes from and the bigger battle she will have to face eventually. Her interactions with Julie a teenage girl she is trying to help really humanize her.
“I'm a substitute mom."
"You're more like a crazy aunt who only gets called when somebody needs bailing out of jail.”
The use of mythologies I’m not familiar with was also a boon to the author. She could have chosen the normal Greek, Roman or Egyptian mythologies for the deities in the story but she took some of the lore from Celtic origins that were new to me and made the story much more likable and I didn’t knit pick the mythology apart because well I just didn’t know anything about it. It fit the unusualness of the world Ilona Andrews has created.
The only thing I wanted more of in this book was Kate/Curran time together. I love the chemistry between them and the fight against the inevitable. It’s great that Kate is getting the job done and kicking butt on her own but I really look forward to the two of them having more page time together. I’m sure it’s coming and the buildup of anticipation is great but I want more now.
“You know what I like about you? You have no sense. You sit here in my house, you can barely hold a spoon, and you're telling me 'no'. You'd pull on Death's whiskers if you could reach them.”
My absolute favorite moment between them is on the very last page when Curran says
Magic Burns is a stronger book than Magic Bites as all the main characters develop an extra layer to them. This is teaming up to be a favorite series of mine. I can’t wait to see what happens to Kate next.
Love the series always. I enjoyed listening to the Graphic Audio version as it just brings the story even more to life. Derek the Teenage Wonder Werewolf and Julie get there first introductions. Kate is really coming into her own. Bran grows on my a little each re-read too.
Kate and Curran's beginning is adorable and I love how he already knows but Kate is so clueless.
Bonus story at the end from Curran's PoV for the soup scene was added after the story. I like this is how they are doing the graphic audio's giving you any different PoV scenes that are in the story.
Great time again!!!
Sale Alert: This is one of my favorite all time UF series and the first few books are currently on sale $1.99
Kate Daniels Buddy Read/Reread on May 11 with the gang at Ilona Andrews Addicts (IAA)
4.5 Stars bumped up a half star from first read
Revisited review after Re-read on Jun 30, 2014
Ilona Andrews is an author I think I can re-read time and time again. I liked this book even more the second time around. The magic and mythology drew me in and the plot and story were even better the second time around.
I got excited when new characters, which will be around throughout the series, were introduced and the chemistry building and the slow burn between Kate and Curran is even more enticing the second time around.
But I didn’t know what it meant!”
Aunt B frowned. “Doesn’t matter. You need to be very careful right now. When Curran wants something, he doesn’t become distracted. He goes after it and he doesn’t stop until he obtains his goal no matter what it takes. That tenacity is what makes him an alpha.”
“You’re scaring me.”
“Scared might be too strong a word, but in your place, I would definitely be concerned.”
I lapped up all Kate/Curran page time together and saw new things I missed the first time. I loved Aunt B’s very apt description of Curran and now that he has his interests set on Kate I don’t think she stands a chance of resisting for long. Again the epilogue totally pulled on every hopeless romantic heartstring I have.
Onto Magic Strikes which was one of my favorites of the series.
Original Review Sept 24, 2013
Kate seems to have trouble follow her no matter what she does and no matter how hard she tries to avoid it trouble has her address and knocks softly at the door. In this installment the author shows us just how far the extremes of Kate’s world can swing as there is the equivalent of a typhoon of magic coming. Called a flare the ebb and flow between magic and tech become increasingly unstable and all the magical creatures are feeling the pull including Kate. It is a time when the gods come out to play and Kate needs to find a way to keep one in particular out of this world.
“You don't cause problems. An unpiloted vampire causes problems. You cause catastrophes.”
I enjoyed this plot arc more than the last. It could just be because I knew more about the world created here and could focus more on the story than in the last book or it could be because the reader get a more serious and deeper look into the woman that is Kate Daniels. Kate is a strong, independent and willful woman that can kick some serious butt. But, she is so much more than that and in this book I really was able to see the softer part of Kate, the part that motivates her to protect others and keep them at a distance. It is revealed little by a little a few pieces of her past until you are pretty sure you know where she comes from and the bigger battle she will have to face eventually. Her interactions with Julie a teenage girl she is trying to help really humanize her.
“I'm a substitute mom."
"You're more like a crazy aunt who only gets called when somebody needs bailing out of jail.”
The use of mythologies I’m not familiar with was also a boon to the author. She could have chosen the normal Greek, Roman or Egyptian mythologies for the deities in the story but she took some of the lore from Celtic origins that were new to me and made the story much more likable and I didn’t knit pick the mythology apart because well I just didn’t know anything about it. It fit the unusualness of the world Ilona Andrews has created.
The only thing I wanted more of in this book was Kate/Curran time together. I love the chemistry between them and the fight against the inevitable. It’s great that Kate is getting the job done and kicking butt on her own but I really look forward to the two of them having more page time together. I’m sure it’s coming and the buildup of anticipation is great but I want more now.
“You know what I like about you? You have no sense. You sit here in my house, you can barely hold a spoon, and you're telling me 'no'. You'd pull on Death's whiskers if you could reach them.”
My absolute favorite moment between them is on the very last page when Curran says
Magic Burns is a stronger book than Magic Bites as all the main characters develop an extra layer to them. This is teaming up to be a favorite series of mine. I can’t wait to see what happens to Kate next.
May 13, 2024
Another great adaptation from Graphic Audio.
I've already reviewed Magic Burns, so there's no need for me to recap the story. But I will say that if you're a fan of audiobooks, these take the story up a notch.
If you're unfamiliar with Kate Daniels and her world, or you found the first book to be too dry for you to get into, then I'd highly suggest going with this version. You still get the full story, but it's condensed just a bit due to the lack of "he said, blah, blah, blah & she replied, blah, blah". Instead, the actors just say it.
If you're a huge KD fan, you owe it to yourself to try these out.
Highly Recommended.
I've already reviewed Magic Burns, so there's no need for me to recap the story. But I will say that if you're a fan of audiobooks, these take the story up a notch.
If you're unfamiliar with Kate Daniels and her world, or you found the first book to be too dry for you to get into, then I'd highly suggest going with this version. You still get the full story, but it's condensed just a bit due to the lack of "he said, blah, blah, blah & she replied, blah, blah". Instead, the actors just say it.
If you're a huge KD fan, you owe it to yourself to try these out.
Highly Recommended.
June 20, 2025
✅ Magic and paranormal creatures
✅ Characters
✅ New secondary characters
✅ World-building
✅ Action
✅ Plot
✅ Pace
✅ Push and pull / Future romance
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: some gore, and murders/deaths in battle
These dramatized adaptations are always such a treat! The ambiance and the different voices make listenning to this book a wonderful experience. 🥰🥰
This sequel was much better than the first book. The plot is more straightforward and made more sense to me overall.
The city of Atlanta is about to get hit by a Flare. One of those happens every few years, and during a Flare, the magic and tech shifts are much more frequent, but the magic is also more potent, meaning people struggle more with control over their powers, and creatures that should not be able to cross into our world are now able to, given the right set of circumstances.
There is a lot of action in this book, especially in the second half, and the battle scenes are engaging and well-written. We could also feel more of the dystopian vibe in this book, with a flare coming and the periods of tech and magic being seemingly out of control, everything felt a little more apocalyptic-like. While the first book seemed to focus more on Slavic mythology, the plot in this one revolved around Celtic legends and gods and goddesses, without being too heavy on the history and info-dumping. It was a nice balance of giving the readers the relevant information, but keeping the fast pace and the action-packed plot.
The characters felt more fleshed out and had more depth. Kate showed once again how tough and badass she is, but also that she knows her limitations and is willing to ask for or accept help when it is offered. She is a strong woman; she knows it, but she does not let it go to her head, and her personality is not defined by it. I hate it when authors write strong female characters, but then ruin everything by having them be too brash, too confident, and just swagger through everything because they are the best and they know it. Thankfully, it is not the case with Kate, and this vulnerability and knowledge that she is not invincible make her relatable and likable.
The new secondary characters were interesting and added a new and different dynamic to the story. It was funny and cute to see Kate care for little Julie, and take her under her wing, but I have to say that she got very attached to Julie very quickly, calling her “her kid” after having spent only a day or two with her. But I understand, Julie is a sweet cheek, but also a badass! Bran was a great addition to the cast, and it was hard not to love his charming and slightly irreverent persona. Who doesn’t like a funny, sexy, and sassy male character? I would have loved to see more of him. I know he is a character that I would have loved very much.
Derek was also a part of the story, and I liked him more in this sequel. He was more interesting and fleshed out than in the first book, where he was simply the teenager sidekick Kate found herself stuck with. Andrea is also an intriguing character that I wish to see more of in the next books of the series. Kate could do with a girl friend by her side. This is not exactly a “found family” trope, but we can see how Kate went from working all alone to being able to trust and rely on some people and having people care about her well-being, too.
The banter and tension between Kate and Curran get even better. Their interactions are still brimming with sexual tension and snark, but they also share a few quieter moments, where they can interact without insulting or aggravating each other. When it counts, they also know they can rely on each other, too. The soup scene was adorable, and I loved seeing it from Curran’s POV at the end of the book. It showed very well how he is attracted to Kate, but fights it off, and wants to continue to antagonize her because he enjoys it.
Curran was more appealing to me in this book. He didn’t change that much, but he showed just a little more depth and layers, and that, combined with the explosive chemistry between Kate and him, was enough to make me fall for him. He is a strong, brooding alpha, but he is also fiercely loyal and kind when it counts, and I just can’t resist his sass when he interacts with Kate. He is intrigued by Kate and finds her appealing, but once he decides to give in to the attraction and to try to win her over for real, sparks are going to fly, and it’s going to be so intense (hopefully).
That ending. It was just so unexpected and funny to have that final “psych” scene between Kate and Curran, I loved it. It made me laugh, but it also hinted at what could eventually be between them and what type of companionship Kate could finally get after being alone and lonely for so long.
0.5 A Questionable Client ⭐⭐⭐
1. Magic Bites ⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Characters
✅ New secondary characters
✅ World-building
✅ Action
✅ Plot
✅ Pace
✅ Push and pull / Future romance
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: some gore, and murders/deaths in battle
These dramatized adaptations are always such a treat! The ambiance and the different voices make listenning to this book a wonderful experience. 🥰🥰
This sequel was much better than the first book. The plot is more straightforward and made more sense to me overall.
The city of Atlanta is about to get hit by a Flare. One of those happens every few years, and during a Flare, the magic and tech shifts are much more frequent, but the magic is also more potent, meaning people struggle more with control over their powers, and creatures that should not be able to cross into our world are now able to, given the right set of circumstances.
There is a lot of action in this book, especially in the second half, and the battle scenes are engaging and well-written. We could also feel more of the dystopian vibe in this book, with a flare coming and the periods of tech and magic being seemingly out of control, everything felt a little more apocalyptic-like. While the first book seemed to focus more on Slavic mythology, the plot in this one revolved around Celtic legends and gods and goddesses, without being too heavy on the history and info-dumping. It was a nice balance of giving the readers the relevant information, but keeping the fast pace and the action-packed plot.
The characters felt more fleshed out and had more depth. Kate showed once again how tough and badass she is, but also that she knows her limitations and is willing to ask for or accept help when it is offered. She is a strong woman; she knows it, but she does not let it go to her head, and her personality is not defined by it. I hate it when authors write strong female characters, but then ruin everything by having them be too brash, too confident, and just swagger through everything because they are the best and they know it. Thankfully, it is not the case with Kate, and this vulnerability and knowledge that she is not invincible make her relatable and likable.
The new secondary characters were interesting and added a new and different dynamic to the story. It was funny and cute to see Kate care for little Julie, and take her under her wing, but I have to say that she got very attached to Julie very quickly, calling her “her kid” after having spent only a day or two with her. But I understand, Julie is a sweet cheek, but also a badass! Bran was a great addition to the cast, and it was hard not to love his charming and slightly irreverent persona. Who doesn’t like a funny, sexy, and sassy male character? I would have loved to see more of him. I know he is a character that I would have loved very much.
Derek was also a part of the story, and I liked him more in this sequel. He was more interesting and fleshed out than in the first book, where he was simply the teenager sidekick Kate found herself stuck with. Andrea is also an intriguing character that I wish to see more of in the next books of the series. Kate could do with a girl friend by her side. This is not exactly a “found family” trope, but we can see how Kate went from working all alone to being able to trust and rely on some people and having people care about her well-being, too.
The banter and tension between Kate and Curran get even better. Their interactions are still brimming with sexual tension and snark, but they also share a few quieter moments, where they can interact without insulting or aggravating each other. When it counts, they also know they can rely on each other, too. The soup scene was adorable, and I loved seeing it from Curran’s POV at the end of the book. It showed very well how he is attracted to Kate, but fights it off, and wants to continue to antagonize her because he enjoys it.
Curran was more appealing to me in this book. He didn’t change that much, but he showed just a little more depth and layers, and that, combined with the explosive chemistry between Kate and him, was enough to make me fall for him. He is a strong, brooding alpha, but he is also fiercely loyal and kind when it counts, and I just can’t resist his sass when he interacts with Kate. He is intrigued by Kate and finds her appealing, but once he decides to give in to the attraction and to try to win her over for real, sparks are going to fly, and it’s going to be so intense (hopefully).
That ending. It was just so unexpected and funny to have that final “psych” scene between Kate and Curran, I loved it. It made me laugh, but it also hinted at what could eventually be between them and what type of companionship Kate could finally get after being alone and lonely for so long.
0.5 A Questionable Client ⭐⭐⭐
1. Magic Bites ⭐⭐⭐.5
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June 18, 2023
~ 5 Magic Burns Stars ~
(No Spoilers)
Magic Burns is the second book in the Kate Daniels series and it was a vast improvement from the first book, Magic Bites. This time there was absolutely no confusion on how the world worked. Magic and tech fluctuate with one another to make a very cool backdrop to an alternate Atlanta. But for me, the best parts of this book are the relationships Kate makes.
Outstanding! Great series! Must read! I am enjoying "Kate Daniels" series. In "Magic Burns" you get non-stop Action, Adventure, and growth in characters and relationships.
My god Kate is such a great character. I just love kick ass chicks who don't take crap or let people just walk all over them. Kate is confident, skilled, funny, occasionally lonely, and caring. I love learning about her and seeing the relationship between Curran and her grow into something more. You can tell they will end up together somewhere down the line.
Audio: The audio is outstanding. I love listening to the Kate Daniels series.
Graphic Audio: OMG OMG It's soooo goooood! Am a big FAN. I love how I can re-read or listen to this series and it feels like the first time each and every-time. That is an amazing thing for an author to be able to do that to the readers. I loved all the voices for the characters. I also loved that we get a Curran POV at the end of the novel. It's such a treat. Highly recommend!!
(No Spoilers)
Magic Burns is the second book in the Kate Daniels series and it was a vast improvement from the first book, Magic Bites. This time there was absolutely no confusion on how the world worked. Magic and tech fluctuate with one another to make a very cool backdrop to an alternate Atlanta. But for me, the best parts of this book are the relationships Kate makes.
Outstanding! Great series! Must read! I am enjoying "Kate Daniels" series. In "Magic Burns" you get non-stop Action, Adventure, and growth in characters and relationships.
My god Kate is such a great character. I just love kick ass chicks who don't take crap or let people just walk all over them. Kate is confident, skilled, funny, occasionally lonely, and caring. I love learning about her and seeing the relationship between Curran and her grow into something more. You can tell they will end up together somewhere down the line.
Audio: The audio is outstanding. I love listening to the Kate Daniels series.
Graphic Audio: OMG OMG It's soooo goooood! Am a big FAN. I love how I can re-read or listen to this series and it feels like the first time each and every-time. That is an amazing thing for an author to be able to do that to the readers. I loved all the voices for the characters. I also loved that we get a Curran POV at the end of the novel. It's such a treat. Highly recommend!!
September 24, 2023
My Kate love continues to grow and if I didn’t have study and arc obligations, I’d be running straight into book three. MAGIC BURNS showed a bit of a softer side to Kate with the introduction of Julie and I found that whole part of the storyline interesting. Curran piques my attention constantly and I’d like to see his presence in the book so much more than it is, but I’m grateful for any little peeks.
I feel like I have started to get some answers to my questions in this instalment, like how magic and tech works, how the pack and the people are organised and function. I’m still a bit foggy over the order. My big questions are...who is Kate’s father and what is so special about her blood (please don’t tell me).
Re-read 2023 through dramatised audio and I loved every minute. Also Julie time!
I feel like I have started to get some answers to my questions in this instalment, like how magic and tech works, how the pack and the people are organised and function. I’m still a bit foggy over the order. My big questions are...who is Kate’s father and what is so special about her blood (please don’t tell me).
Re-read 2023 through dramatised audio and I loved every minute. Also Julie time!
February 11, 2024
I can't believe it took me so long to read this series. It's a great action packed Urban fantasy with a great lead character. Yep, Kate has her faults she certainly isn't perfect and she actually gets hurt (I'm sick of heroines who are indestructible). She's also smart and works hard to be good at the magic she does. Nice slow romantic build up that I can't wait to see how it unfolds. I'm hooked on this series!
June 20, 2023
Update: The Graphic Audio edition is the best. I've read this series so much that I can quote it word for word.
I’m really enjoying this series so far, and this sequel just makes me want to keep going and going. I know that there may be books in the series that I won’t be too fond of, but I’m willing to go all the way. I need to catch up! There’s no slacking on the badaxxery that is Kate. Girl’s got skills and a sarcastic wit to go with them. I can’t imagine how much badaxx she can get within 8 installments already. We shall see.
More magic and mayhem going doing in the A this time, and Kate finds herself smack dab in the middle of it all. Of course, she can’t turn a corner without someone, or something, trying to send her to an early grave. Gods and Goddesses, vampires, shifters, reeves, witches – you name it, this series has it. I was a little overwhelmed with everything that was going on. Just when there was understanding of one thing, something else came along and confused me. Just the mythology and all the spell talk, had my mind running a mile a minute. I was too caught up with pack business to really care about my brain exploding though. When Curran is around, nothing else matters. His presence alone demands attention.
I love this alternate world that is Atlanta. Again, I just wanted to hop in my car and hit 85 N, just to go sit in Centennial Park. I haven’t been there in 3 years, and as I read, I was envisioning everything that was going on in the book there. I love how everything is described and you can just see it so clearly. Characters are fleshed out much the same way, in terms of appearance. I suddenly imagined the werehyena with the blue hair. Or the vampire that Ghastek piloted on the little mission with Kate. Even little Julie, with her gaunt features, was visible in my mind’s eye. Everything stood out in ways that other worlds and its characters fail to do when I read.
Great sequel, and I’m about to start the next book in a couple of days. If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend doing so. I’ve never read anything like it, and I haven’t even gotten halfway caught up!
I’m really enjoying this series so far, and this sequel just makes me want to keep going and going. I know that there may be books in the series that I won’t be too fond of, but I’m willing to go all the way. I need to catch up! There’s no slacking on the badaxxery that is Kate. Girl’s got skills and a sarcastic wit to go with them. I can’t imagine how much badaxx she can get within 8 installments already. We shall see.
More magic and mayhem going doing in the A this time, and Kate finds herself smack dab in the middle of it all. Of course, she can’t turn a corner without someone, or something, trying to send her to an early grave. Gods and Goddesses, vampires, shifters, reeves, witches – you name it, this series has it. I was a little overwhelmed with everything that was going on. Just when there was understanding of one thing, something else came along and confused me. Just the mythology and all the spell talk, had my mind running a mile a minute. I was too caught up with pack business to really care about my brain exploding though. When Curran is around, nothing else matters. His presence alone demands attention.
I love this alternate world that is Atlanta. Again, I just wanted to hop in my car and hit 85 N, just to go sit in Centennial Park. I haven’t been there in 3 years, and as I read, I was envisioning everything that was going on in the book there. I love how everything is described and you can just see it so clearly. Characters are fleshed out much the same way, in terms of appearance. I suddenly imagined the werehyena with the blue hair. Or the vampire that Ghastek piloted on the little mission with Kate. Even little Julie, with her gaunt features, was visible in my mind’s eye. Everything stood out in ways that other worlds and its characters fail to do when I read.
Great sequel, and I’m about to start the next book in a couple of days. If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend doing so. I’ve never read anything like it, and I haven’t even gotten halfway caught up!
March 21, 2025
This was a fast paced and action packed listen. We get to see more of Kate being a bad a** and I love her snark and banter with everyone (Oh Bran). Since I was already familiar with the magic of the world, things flowed much better for me in this book. The plot is pretty self contained and the conflict is resolved by the end, but I like that bread crumbs are being dropped about who Kate is and also how things are shifting between her and Curran. It’s a glacial pace between them, but there were definite steps taken in this book by Curran that have my romance loving heart happy. (What he says at the end!?! *high pitched shrieking*) I also kind of love how that smattering of romantic interest so often teeters on the edge of violence. lol
Graphic audio was a lot of fun again and I’m really enjoying experiencing this series this way. On to book 3!
Graphic audio was a lot of fun again and I’m really enjoying experiencing this series this way. On to book 3!
June 11, 2025
Whoever made the decision to add the little Curran POVs to the end of these delightful productions deserves a cookie. Maybe two.
But seriously, I love this world, I love these characters, and I'll be a broken record when I say these Graphic Audios are amazing. Reliving the early Kate and Curran interactions in this medium is just fantastic. And the way their first real heart to heart came to life -- when she admits she's alone and her future is believed to be one thing (little does she know!).. wow, I was in my feels. Especially considering how Curran responds to her confession with his actions at the end.
Getting Julie introduced was just the icing ontop of all this excellence.
Can't stop won't stop here we go book three (aka the best book of the series).
But seriously, I love this world, I love these characters, and I'll be a broken record when I say these Graphic Audios are amazing. Reliving the early Kate and Curran interactions in this medium is just fantastic. And the way their first real heart to heart came to life -- when she admits she's alone and her future is believed to be one thing (little does she know!).. wow, I was in my feels. Especially considering how Curran responds to her confession with his actions at the end.
Getting Julie introduced was just the icing ontop of all this excellence.
Can't stop won't stop here we go book three (aka the best book of the series).
May 11, 2025
I’m having so much fun revisiting this series I read years ago in Graphic Audio format. I think I read this book almost 15 years ago? That’s wild! And to think that it still holds up to today’s standards of Urban Fantasy! I forgot how much Kate and Curran’s interactions turn me to mush whewwww I love them so much! 🫠🫠🫠 I also love how each book wraps up its own mystery while continuing with the overarching plot line. Can’t wait to re-experience the next book!
March 14, 2024
Oh boy. We have a bit of a full cast mess here. Fullcast audio isn't my favorite exception Tamora Pierce books because it's well directed. The author is extremely active in her audiobooks and it's almost always thought out and good.
The main problem with this audiobook full cast is the fill. Sometimes they are filling with music and just too much that doens't always match the scene. Too much fill audio causes ear fatigue. And the fill audio isn't interesting and matches half the time.
These cats don't pass the vibe check. I wanted to like it because the new author for the relaunch of Kate isn't that good so I might end up taking the dramatized on that over the single author.
content 4 stars
actual audio 2
The main problem with this audiobook full cast is the fill. Sometimes they are filling with music and just too much that doens't always match the scene. Too much fill audio causes ear fatigue. And the fill audio isn't interesting and matches half the time.
These cats don't pass the vibe check. I wanted to like it because the new author for the relaunch of Kate isn't that good so I might end up taking the dramatized on that over the single author.
content 4 stars
actual audio 2
March 31, 2025
Enjoying a relisten in the Graphic Audio format for the first time, I was once again, immersed in the series with a talented full cast. First encounter with Julie, the delightful advent of the mischievous Bran, and oh my is the Beast Lord wooing Kate in shifter fashion? So much to love in these early books! Oh, and like with the first book, this Graphic Audio had an extra scene from Curran's POV.
This book stepped things up a bit from the last one because it didn't have the job of explaining the world building. It just dived in to let the fun begin.
Not that it was more of the same from the first book. Kate's case and a pile of of very important tasks needing done involve somethings and someones new and different. There was more explored about Kate's secrets and the oh so delicious encounters between Kate and the Beast Lord.
The plot wound its way tighter to the big climax scene and was an intense, dangerous time where Kate and her allies are pinned into a corner and I was left wondering how they would prevail. This series isn't afraid to go dark and gritty, to make even good people experience loss and present some real baddies. Some of the villains are truly worthy of loathing. And there are still other enigmatic figures that can be both good and bad as it suits them. I love how that all works out into a twisting story fraught with peril.
I highly recommend this series to Urban Fantasy lovers and I can't wait to plunge in for the next installment for both the excitement and for still more of those tantalizing dangling threads and hints to be answered.
This book stepped things up a bit from the last one because it didn't have the job of explaining the world building. It just dived in to let the fun begin.
Not that it was more of the same from the first book. Kate's case and a pile of of very important tasks needing done involve somethings and someones new and different. There was more explored about Kate's secrets and the oh so delicious encounters between Kate and the Beast Lord.
The plot wound its way tighter to the big climax scene and was an intense, dangerous time where Kate and her allies are pinned into a corner and I was left wondering how they would prevail. This series isn't afraid to go dark and gritty, to make even good people experience loss and present some real baddies. Some of the villains are truly worthy of loathing. And there are still other enigmatic figures that can be both good and bad as it suits them. I love how that all works out into a twisting story fraught with peril.
I highly recommend this series to Urban Fantasy lovers and I can't wait to plunge in for the next installment for both the excitement and for still more of those tantalizing dangling threads and hints to be answered.
March 28, 2024
4.5 stars 🫶
June 8, 2024
I am loving listening to the Graphic Audio of these books I have already read. It's almost like experiencing them for the first time. If I had one complaint, it would be that they use a lot of the same performers over and over again, so some of the series sound like each other because they are using the same narrators.
June 10, 2025
I love the series.
I took a break between book one and two but because there are no cliffhangers there only the curiosity of a reader, who wants to know how the story goes on, it's easy to take a break and do something else.
But I picked it up after finishing another ebook I was reading. And now I have binged the second and the third graphicaudio books. They are so much fun and I like to listen to the multiple narrators.
I took a break between book one and two but because there are no cliffhangers there only the curiosity of a reader, who wants to know how the story goes on, it's easy to take a break and do something else.
But I picked it up after finishing another ebook I was reading. And now I have binged the second and the third graphicaudio books. They are so much fun and I like to listen to the multiple narrators.
December 12, 2024
Delicious. Loving learning more about how tech and magic works.
Also getting the Curran POV at the end of if is such a treat. He's down bad and she's got no clue. 👌😌
Also getting the Curran POV at the end of if is such a treat. He's down bad and she's got no clue. 👌😌
March 26, 2025
2025: New GA adaptation dropped so definitely time for a marathon. Love these full-cast versions!2023 GA edition relisten because new release. This group of narrators is growing on me. It's all good.
2023 Graphic Audio edition. Well, it was worth the Audible credit. I still confused by the originals prouncing the bouda as "bow-dah" and the Graphic Audio narrators call them "boo-duh"--like the Buddha. It's confusing. Have no clue which one is actually correct. As I'd just listened to this book not long ago, not much else to say. I was "killing" time before ending this marathon and the release of the MAGIC TIDES & CLAIMS audio book, which falls before BLOOD HEIR in the chronological order of the series. I have six days. Ah well.
2023: When all else fails, Kate comes through for my reading pleausre.
2022: It's a favorite series. Need I say more? And yes, I finally got around to bumping it to a full 5 stars.
2021: The worldbuilding continues in this one. Secrets come to light. Friends are made--and lost. There is battle and recovery and magic and monsters and a discovery at the end...Ah. Kate's favorite book. No spoilers.
2020 review: Even knowing what happens, I still grin over Kate and Curran's obvious attraction. Bran. Julie. Derek. *sigh*
June 2018 review: I can't believe I haven't actually written out a review for this book in the two previous times I've read/listened to it. I have time for a quick one...
Ah, Curran. And Kate. The push and pull. And Julie! This book was worth a few tears. So many threads introduced, so much emotion, and the world-building continues. Renae Raudman's narration remains spot on and Ilona and Andrew really do a terrific job. 4.5 stars!
September 1, 2024
Enjoying this one more than the last. Ready for the next
December 17, 2024
4.4/5 stars – Still loving the series, with some minor pacing issues
Quick Review:
♦︎ Urban fantasy
♦︎ Celtic mythology
♦︎ A world where magic and technology clash (BIG TIME in this book)
♦︎ Magic Flare is happening in this book
♦︎ Paranormal – Vampires, shape-shifters (werewolves, wererats, etc.), magic users, witches, necromancers, mercenaries, new characters with exciting powers
♦︎ Kate Daniels (MC) – A tough, sarcasticmercenary, still full of mystery on her background (more was revealed but its still ???)
♦︎ Curran – Beast lord, his interactions with Kate <3
♦︎ Romance – SLOW BURN fr a slow very slow burn
♦︎ Mystery – A new supernatural threat to solve
♦︎ Action-packed – Seriously, the final battle was a blast!
I’m still having an absolute blast with this series, but I’ll admit it’s not quite perfect yet. While the world-building and character development continue to be strong, Magic Burns started off a bit slow, and I found myself wishing the plot would pick up a bit faster. I had the same issue with the pacing as I did in the first book—it really doesn’t gain speed until about halfway through. I was really hoping for more Kate and Curran interactions earlier, especially since their dynamic is one of my favorite parts of the series. When they finally did get their time together, though, it was absolutely worth the wait!
The new characters added in this book were a welcome surprise. I loved seeing how they fit into the world and their unique powers. The story overall felt like a nice step up from the first book in terms of the stakes and the action—that final battle was intense, and I was hooked the whole time!
I’m also still loving the graphic audio experience. The immersive sound effects and dramatization really make the world feel alive, and it’s just such a fun way to enjoy the story. Honestly, I wish more fantasy books had this format.
While there were a few pacing hiccups, I’m absolutely invested in the Kate Daniels series and have already dove into the third book! Highly recommend to fans of urban fantasy and snarky heroines!
My review of the first book: Magic Bites.
My review of the third book: Magic Strikes.
Quick Review:
♦︎ Urban fantasy
♦︎ Celtic mythology
♦︎ A world where magic and technology clash (BIG TIME in this book)
♦︎ Magic Flare is happening in this book
♦︎ Paranormal – Vampires, shape-shifters (werewolves, wererats, etc.), magic users, witches, necromancers, mercenaries, new characters with exciting powers
♦︎ Kate Daniels (MC) – A tough, sarcastic
♦︎ Curran – Beast lord, his interactions with Kate <3
♦︎ Romance – SLOW BURN fr a slow very slow burn
♦︎ Mystery – A new supernatural threat to solve
♦︎ Action-packed – Seriously, the final battle was a blast!
I’m still having an absolute blast with this series, but I’ll admit it’s not quite perfect yet. While the world-building and character development continue to be strong, Magic Burns started off a bit slow, and I found myself wishing the plot would pick up a bit faster. I had the same issue with the pacing as I did in the first book—it really doesn’t gain speed until about halfway through. I was really hoping for more Kate and Curran interactions earlier, especially since their dynamic is one of my favorite parts of the series. When they finally did get their time together, though, it was absolutely worth the wait!
The new characters added in this book were a welcome surprise. I loved seeing how they fit into the world and their unique powers. The story overall felt like a nice step up from the first book in terms of the stakes and the action—that final battle was intense, and I was hooked the whole time!
I’m also still loving the graphic audio experience. The immersive sound effects and dramatization really make the world feel alive, and it’s just such a fun way to enjoy the story. Honestly, I wish more fantasy books had this format.
While there were a few pacing hiccups, I’m absolutely invested in the Kate Daniels series and have already dove into the third book! Highly recommend to fans of urban fantasy and snarky heroines!
My review of the first book: Magic Bites.
My review of the third book: Magic Strikes.
July 10, 2024
So good! I'd read the book before a long time ago, and I was wanting to re-read the series. But now with graphic audio having their own "movie-in-your-mind" version, it was the perfect time to dive back in. And I loved it! The voices are sooo on point!
I really noticed the Princess Bride references throughout the book this time around, and it made it so much better.
I loved the epilogue so much I had to listen twice.
"As you wish"
These graphic audio versions also have the "Curran's perspective" snippets at the end to sweeten the deal.
It was a lot of fun to listen to!
I really noticed the Princess Bride references throughout the book this time around, and it made it so much better.
I loved the epilogue so much I had to listen twice.
"As you wish"
These graphic audio versions also have the "Curran's perspective" snippets at the end to sweeten the deal.
It was a lot of fun to listen to!
August 26, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐½
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Ilona Andrews, and I finally understand why there are 10+ books in the Kate Daniels series. These stories are captivating—a sharp blend of urban fantasy with just the right touch of romance.
The banter and tension between Kate and the MMC have me kicking my feet every time they interact. It’s been a while since I’ve read a series where I was this desperate for the MMC’s appearances, and Andrews is brilliant at keeping him just out of reach, sprinkling him in so you’re always left wanting more.
On top of that, the humor never disappoints. Between the action, the magic, and the snark, the banter, these books are addicting in the best way.
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by Ilona Andrews, and I finally understand why there are 10+ books in the Kate Daniels series. These stories are captivating—a sharp blend of urban fantasy with just the right touch of romance.
The banter and tension between Kate and the MMC have me kicking my feet every time they interact. It’s been a while since I’ve read a series where I was this desperate for the MMC’s appearances, and Andrews is brilliant at keeping him just out of reach, sprinkling him in so you’re always left wanting more.
On top of that, the humor never disappoints. Between the action, the magic, and the snark, the banter, these books are addicting in the best way.
May 3, 2024
I'm really loving these adaptations. They add a certain extra flair to the narration.
March 20, 2024
Series: Kate Daniels #2
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
As a mercenary, Kate Daniels has seen her fair share of occupational hazards. Once every seven years there is a magic flare, a time when magic runs rampant, and it is happening now. While trying to retrieve some stolen maps for the Pack, Kate runs across a larger problem involving a God and a battle for power. Now it's a race to stop a cataclysmic event that could end with the destruction of Atlanta.
This book was nonstop action! There were witches, gods, shifters, vampires, and a giant tortoise. I really enjoyed the mix of mystery, action, and danger with this series. Each book is a race to find out what is going to happen next. It makes it hard for me to put the books down.
As with the first book, there are a lot of amazing side characters in this one, including a few new people. Curran, the Beast King, is starting to appear more in the series and has made his first move to notify Kate that he is interested in a relationship with her. Their constant back and forth has started to turn into foreplay instead of just annoyance. I can’t wait for them to really start dating.
“You don’t cause problems. An unpiloted vampire causes problems. You cause catastrophes.”
As always, Kate is a snarky and deadly woman. I love that we get to see more of her sword skill in this book. She really decimated the enemies and showed her crazier/ bloodier side. I loved how Kate adopted Julie in a way and became her crazy aunt during all of this. Kate definitely is starting to let her barriers down and expand her circle of friends.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I love this world that has waves of tech and magic. It's just a very unique world, with unique characters and paranormal elements. I highly recommend this series if you are a UF fan, a paranormal fan, or are into kickass heroines.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
As a mercenary, Kate Daniels has seen her fair share of occupational hazards. Once every seven years there is a magic flare, a time when magic runs rampant, and it is happening now. While trying to retrieve some stolen maps for the Pack, Kate runs across a larger problem involving a God and a battle for power. Now it's a race to stop a cataclysmic event that could end with the destruction of Atlanta.
This book was nonstop action! There were witches, gods, shifters, vampires, and a giant tortoise. I really enjoyed the mix of mystery, action, and danger with this series. Each book is a race to find out what is going to happen next. It makes it hard for me to put the books down.
As with the first book, there are a lot of amazing side characters in this one, including a few new people. Curran, the Beast King, is starting to appear more in the series and has made his first move to notify Kate that he is interested in a relationship with her. Their constant back and forth has started to turn into foreplay instead of just annoyance. I can’t wait for them to really start dating.
“You don’t cause problems. An unpiloted vampire causes problems. You cause catastrophes.”
As always, Kate is a snarky and deadly woman. I love that we get to see more of her sword skill in this book. She really decimated the enemies and showed her crazier/ bloodier side. I loved how Kate adopted Julie in a way and became her crazy aunt during all of this. Kate definitely is starting to let her barriers down and expand her circle of friends.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I love this world that has waves of tech and magic. It's just a very unique world, with unique characters and paranormal elements. I highly recommend this series if you are a UF fan, a paranormal fan, or are into kickass heroines.
This review was originally posted at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
December 12, 2023
Losing my mind over how incredible these are. Bran's voice actor was excellent (no surprise, as he is also voicing Bones in Ilona's bestie Jeaniene Frost's Night Huntress books!) and I'm very much looking forward to Julie being a part of the main cast. The first two books are probably the weakest in terms of plot, but I'm in it for the long haul with Graphic Audio.
June 28, 2023
I love these full cast dramatized audio adaptations.
January 5, 2024
Re-read Sept 2023 (Graphic Audio edition)
Unfortunately my re-read was incredibly disjointed due to some life circumstances, but even setting that aside I don't think I enjoyed this as much the second time around. For some reason I remembered the Flare having a larger impact on everyone than it actually did. The final battle was still awesome, the reeves were an interesting variant of the vampires, and this is the first glimpse we see of Kate's internal struggle with her innate abilities/lineage.
I was able to appreciate Julie's storyline more this time around knowing where her series arc goes and how important she becomes to Kate. I was really surprised at how different Derek's personality was. I'm so used to post-Magic-Strikes Derek that I kept thinking he was Ascanio in this book!
The GA production is still incredible though. They absolutely nailed the voices and overall tone of the series. I'm very excited to listen to the rest of these editions when they come out.
Original Review - Feb 2022
I'm officially hooked on this series! I liked Magic Burns better than the first book and really appreciated that this story continues with the gory darkness of the Post-Shift Atlanta. I didn't enjoy the mythology behind the villain as much as in Magic Bites, but the end battle (and especially Kate's full-power magic) was cool. I loved how the flare impacted everyone's personality. I'm not a huge fan of kids being part of the plot though.
Excited to finally see things moving forward with Curran. The last chapter of this book was adorable.
Unfortunately my re-read was incredibly disjointed due to some life circumstances, but even setting that aside I don't think I enjoyed this as much the second time around. For some reason I remembered the Flare having a larger impact on everyone than it actually did. The final battle was still awesome, the reeves were an interesting variant of the vampires, and this is the first glimpse we see of Kate's internal struggle with her innate abilities/lineage.
I was able to appreciate Julie's storyline more this time around knowing where her series arc goes and how important she becomes to Kate. I was really surprised at how different Derek's personality was. I'm so used to post-Magic-Strikes Derek that I kept thinking he was Ascanio in this book!
The GA production is still incredible though. They absolutely nailed the voices and overall tone of the series. I'm very excited to listen to the rest of these editions when they come out.
Original Review - Feb 2022
I'm officially hooked on this series! I liked Magic Burns better than the first book and really appreciated that this story continues with the gory darkness of the Post-Shift Atlanta. I didn't enjoy the mythology behind the villain as much as in Magic Bites, but the end battle (and especially Kate's full-power magic) was cool. I loved how the flare impacted everyone's personality. I'm not a huge fan of kids being part of the plot though.
Excited to finally see things moving forward with Curran. The last chapter of this book was adorable.
June 23, 2025
I re-read this with the Graphic Audio production, and it gives a whole new sense of feelings and emotions to the story and characters. It is wonderful. I love the added inflection from the different characters, the sass and the attitudes behind the words - it just adds so much dimension from what just my brain produces. I am just really enjoying hearing it played out by different voices, very enjoyable.
I love this story in particular, because this is when Kate meets Julie, you're introduced to Andrea, you expand your information on Kate's heritage and powers, and Curran makes his sneaky moves on Kate. It is just really a great expansion to the world, plus what they're up against is pretty cool lore-wise. Overall, this volume is one of my favorites.
I love this story in particular, because this is when Kate meets Julie, you're introduced to Andrea, you expand your information on Kate's heritage and powers, and Curran makes his sneaky moves on Kate. It is just really a great expansion to the world, plus what they're up against is pretty cool lore-wise. Overall, this volume is one of my favorites.
July 26, 2025
I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating.
*Audiobook Review
Overall: 4.5/5
Story: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Narrators: Graphic Audio Cast
They did a fantastic job once again! I’m eager to jump into the next book!
Cliffhanger(?): Yes and no, this is a really addictive series.
Relationship Type(?): Still Under Construction
Heat(?): Not Yet.
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 4.5/5
Pacing: Mid
Sorry for the Short Review I’m diving into the next Book.
*Audiobook Review
Overall: 4.5/5
Story: 4/5
Performance: 5/5
Narrators: Graphic Audio Cast
They did a fantastic job once again! I’m eager to jump into the next book!
Cliffhanger(?): Yes and no, this is a really addictive series.
Relationship Type(?): Still Under Construction
Heat(?): Not Yet.
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 4.5/5
Pacing: Mid
Sorry for the Short Review I’m diving into the next Book.
December 21, 2025
Okay if I wasn’t sold on these graphic audio adaptations before I’m 100% in now. The music can be a little jarring sometimes because I’m so not used to it, but I only noticed the music once or twice this time.
That been said, I’m obsessed with Curran’s voice actor. I need him to continue doing whatever it is he’s doing, his voice is just perfect for Curran.
Also the new Curran POV at the end in this edition, was so cute. It honestly made me want to start the next one right away.
That been said, I’m obsessed with Curran’s voice actor. I need him to continue doing whatever it is he’s doing, his voice is just perfect for Curran.
Also the new Curran POV at the end in this edition, was so cute. It honestly made me want to start the next one right away.
April 12, 2024
I really do like the Graphic Audio version but now I'm a touch wary after they skipped some of my favorite witty lines. Like Ilona Andrews has some good ones. Some of my favorites. And just gone from this. It makes me sad so I guess that is a guarantee that I won't stop listening to the other version or rereading the book.
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