The Mermaid in the Shot Glass by Hailey Edwards [Review]

The Mermaid in the Shot Glass (Groom & Doom #3) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 1, 2026

Groom & Doom
1. The Vampire in the Potting Shed
2. The Goblin in the Sink Drain
3. The Mermaid in the Shot Glass - Kindle
4. The Pixie in the Pickle Jar
5. The Ghost in the Pole Barn

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The time has come for Ana to conquer her doubts about her heritage and discover her inner dragon. Her lessons begin with summoning fire on the shore at Lendman Park, placing a buffer between her fledgling powers and town. Her flames prove eager to please, leaping to her fingertips, but a sudden burst of magic topples her and Rían into the lake. A lake one of the locals swears is inhabited by a mermaid.

Too bad the mermaid lore isn’t the only story making the rounds in Brentwood. Rumor has it that Mercer Bates has challenged Carmichael Sartori for control of the Sartori pack. Ana doesn’t want to care whether Carmichael lives or dies, but our hearts don’t always listen to our heads. And that proves doubly true when someone Ana considers a new friend reveals her true loyalties in an explosive betrayal that shakes the foundation of the Walsh clan.

Thoughts on The Mermaid in the Shot Glass: Oh my goodness. Rian is trying SO HARD to rein in his protective and possessive streak when it comes to Ana because he wants her to have the choice to choose him. Not feel constrained by gratitude or guilt or any of those other pesky emotions that aren't straight up want.

To be fair, Ana does feel the want, but she was treated so terribly by Sartori and his pack that she's having a hard time accepting that the people around her want her for her. Rian liking her throws her. Heck, having Sloane as a friend she can count on throws her, so those deeper emotions she has toward Rian really have her reeling.

On top of all these feeeeelings, Ana and Rian are also dealing with potential changes to the Sartori pack leadership and betrayal from within for the Walsh clan. Oh, and Ana is finally coming into her dragon-ish abilities. Sort of. I mean, they're there. She's having a bit of a struggle controlling them, but they're proof (along with that lovely single scale) that she really is a dragon.

A couple of matchmaking family members, a explosion of power, and some answers to questions Ana was too polite to ask. Things are moving forward for this couple and I'm enjoying their journey A LOT!

Beast Business by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Beast Business (Hidden Legacy #6.5) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: February 2, 2026

Hidden Legacy
1. Burn for Me
2. White Hot
3. Wildfire
3.5. Diamond Fire
4. Sapphire Flames
5. Emerald Blaze
6. Ruby Fever
6.5. Beast Business - Paperback | Kindle

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Show as little as possible. Make them think that illusion is all you have. Your life depends on it.

Augustine Montgomery is an Illusion Prime, the highest rank of magic user. The people who have seen his real face can be counted on the fingers of one hand. The people who've witnessed the full extent of his power are dead. Illusion isn’t just his brand of magic. It’s become his lifestyle.

One day Diana Harrison walks into the office of Augustine’s premier PI corporation. Diana is also a Prime, a mage who bonds with animals through her magic and prefers their company to humans. Something precious has been stolen from House Harrison. Something Diana must recover at all costs before it perishes.

Augustine is cold, rational, and calculating. He doesn’t get emotionally involved, but something about Diana disturbs the careful balance of Augustine’s inner world. She asks for his help, and he can’t refuse.

Neither Augustine nor Diana are who they appear to be. Both would die to keep their secrets. But the enemy they face is unimaginably powerful, and saving the life at risk will demand the ultimate price, one neither ever expected to pay – complete honesty.

Thoughts on Beast Business: I'm having SO MANY thoughts about this story. I mean, AUGUSTINE. Wow. We got to see more than the bare glimpses beneath the illusion that he's allowed before. The guy has layers. Which we might have guessed since Mad Rogan calls him a friend, but those layers have layers and HOO-BOY.

Then there's Diana Harrison. Her brother Cornelius has let slip some of his own deep layers and what he's capable of and Diana brought (some of) what he'd experienced into better focus. When is comes to those she's connected to, Diana is deeply driven and she won't stop until she's completed what she's set out to do.

Let's just say that both Diana and Augustine have worked hard to play down their abilities and pretend they're far less deadly than they actually are. They both wear a carefully crafted mask and for some reason they find themselves dropping those masks around the other.

I honestly can't get enough of this world (even if it's only slightly Baylor adjacent) and I REALLY want to see how Augustine and Diana get over this little bump in the road they've hit.

The Goblin in the Sink Drain by Hailey Edwards [Review]

The Goblin in the Sink Drain (Groom & Doom #2) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: November 2, 2025

Groom & Doom
1. The Vampire in the Potting Shed
2. The Goblin in the Sink Drain - Kindle
3. The Mermaid in the Shot Glass
4. The Pixie in the Pickle Jar
5. The Ghost in the Pole Barn

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Everything Ana Sartori knows about herself, and her father, is a lie. Or so the Walsh clan would have her believe. Their claims are convincing, the details too vivid to dismiss outright, but she can’t imagine her father as the villain of her story.

Carmichael Sartori is a lot of things. Ruthless. Merciless. Pitiless. But alphas aren’t known for being pushovers. Ana knows pack law is brutal for a reason, and her father enforces the rules with tooth and claw to protect his people. Including her.

But the more time she spends with the Walsh clan, the wider her eyes open to the possibilities of what an alpha could be, what a pack should be, and it makes her wonder if the Walshes are right about other things. The only way for Ana to be certain is to face her father. She’ll have to throw herself to the wolves and hope she makes it out alive with her answers.

Thoughts on The Goblin in the Sink Drain: Ana had her life upended when Rian and the Walsh clan moved into town and now she's trying to sort the truth from the lies over everything she's been told about her mother, her father, and what she is. Frankly, it's a lot. She doesn't quite trust the man who raised her, but she also isn't mentally ready to walk away from the only life she's known. As brutal and awful and constricting as it was.

She's also hesitant about trading one prison (her father's pack) with another (Rian's clan). Except, Rian doesn't rule his clan with fear. He's laidback and receptive to ideas that aren't his own. He's sweet and a little awkward and it's possibly his awkwardness that endears him to Ana the most. Well, that and his occasional shirtless state. To be fair, Rian also gets a little flustered when Ana shows any skin, so they have that in common.

When some of her human friends are made into unwilling pawns in this supernatural standoff, Ana can't let them suffer when she can do something about it. Since she needs to talk to the man who raised her anyway, she agrees to go back to the pack to save them while trying to get answers to some of the questions the Walsh's have raised in her.

Let's just say it doesn't go well and leave it at that.

BUT...Ana does get some of those answers. And she gets to see Rian in all his dragon-y glory. And then she gets to participate in a rescue, which gives her a chance to experience things she'd never experienced before. She also gets to make a choice on who she wants to stand with and I like where this is going!

I must say, I'm enjoying Ana and Rian and their sweet, awkward romance. I'm here to see how it plays out!

Wicked All Night by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Wicked All Night (Night Rebel #3) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: October 2, 2025

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked
2. Wicked Bite
3. Wicked All Night - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Prince
1. Once Burned

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

A gift from the gods...

Veritas and Ian have finally defeated their worst enemy, but the power it took to pierce through to the netherworld has unexpected consequences. Soon, Veritas is forced to rely on the last person she trusts---a golden deity named Phanes, who seeks far more than a temporary alliance with the beautiful vampire.

Can unleash hell...

But a supernatural escape soon pits Veritas and Ian against beings seeking to rule over mortals once again. Now, they must rally friends and foes alike--if the vampire council doesn't execute Veritas first. Plus, a wedge between Veritas and Ian threatens to destroy their love. Can they stand together against the unearthly powers about to be unleashed? Or does their love--and humanity--not stand a chance?

Thoughts on Wicked All Night: Man, Veritas and Ian just can't catch a break, can they? They defeated Dagon, but the demon left a parting gift and Ian is NOT doing well as a result. Which leads Veritas to agree to help Phanes because I'm pretty sure Veritas would have cheerfully agreed to burn down the world if it meant Ian would survive.

Except Phanes isn't the paragon of virtue he presents himself as. In fact, he kind of has that tricksy vibe going and he sort of left a few things out of his request for Veritas's help. Sure, Veritas was desperate enough to agree in the first place so she didn't have a whole lot of time to double check that what he offered was above board and all that. Let's just say that Phanes is kind of a jerk and leave it at that.

BUT...now that Ian is healed up and has regained his strength, he's not about to let his honey face anyone or thing on her own. So he does what he has to do (which is just as extreme as one would expect from Ian) and soon Veritas and Ian and trolling the underworld, fighting old gods, brokering deals between vampires and ghouls, and doing everything they can to fix the wrongs they had an unwitting hand in.

Yeah, these two have A LOT going on. Volcanoes and powerful friends banding together to stop imminent destruction and fundamental changes to the way the vampire council is run. Veritas and Ian are both making waves and THINGS ARE HAPPENING! (and MAN it was nice seeing all those familiar faces one last time!)

Wicked Bite by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Wicked Bite (Night Rebel #1) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 29, 2025

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked
2. Wicked Bite - Paperback | Kindle
3. Wicked All Night

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Prince
1. Once Burned

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Some promises are meant to be broken…

Veritas spent most of her life as a vampire Law Guardian. Now, she’s about to break every rule by secretly hunting down the dark souls that were freed in order to save Ian. But the risks are high. For if she gets caught, she could lose her job. And catching the sinister creatures might cost Veritas her own life.

Some vows are forever…

Ian’s memories might be fragmented, but this master vampire isn’t about to be left behind by the woman who entranced him, bound herself to him, and then disappeared. So what if demons, other Law Guardians, and dangerous, otherworldly forces stand against them? Come hell or high water, Ian intends to remind Veritas of the burning passion between them, because she is the only person seared on his mind—and his soul…

Thoughts on Wicked Bite: To protect Ian after his memories were fractured, Veritas sent him back to his happily hedonistic life. Since he couldn't remember the time they spent together, he'd go right back to his old self and wouldn't miss her. At least that was what Veritas's bruised heart told her.

As it turns out, Ian's feelings were deep enough that they couldn't be erased completely and it wasn't long before he was hunting down his errant wife while stirring up trouble as only Ian can. In other words, Ian wasn't going to be kept out of the fight against Dagon even if he didn't remember exactly what was going on.

Soon Ian and Veritas are verbally sparring with one another as they try to find the freed souls. Ian's convinced Veritas feels more than she'll admit (which is true). Veritas is trying her hardest not to get too tangled back up in Ian because she's convinced he doesn't feel for her what she does for him (which is false). Quite frankly, ALL Ian's vampire pals can see he's more than a little smitten and they're all floored by this. It's just that Veritas is way too close to the situation to see it herself.

Unexpected family connections, new abilities, betrayal, unleashed power, unexpected complications, a vampire with a powerful new skill set, and a Law Guardian who is having a REALLY hard time flying under the radar. To be fair, being married to Ian already makes it difficult to keep things on the down low. Ian with a purpose? Let's just say he's very determined vampire who isn't about to let his new wife skip out on their marriage. Even if it's for his own good.

Shades of Wicked by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Shades of Wicked (Night Rebel #1) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 25, 2025

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked - Paperback | Kindle
2. Wicked Bite
3. Wicked All Night

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Prince
1. Once Burned

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The Rule Breaker...

Master vampire Ian is unrepentant, shameless…and every shade of wicked. He’s made one too many enemies in his two centuries of existence, including Dagon, a demon who now lays claim to his soul. Ian’s only chance to escape Dagon is to join forces with a Law Guardian, but he's never been able to abide by the rules for long.

The Law Maker...

Veritas’ normal role is police, judge, and jury to reprobates like Ian. But she has her own ax to grind with Dagon, so if she can use Ian as bait...well, all’s fair in law and war. As they scour supernatural hotspots to perfect their trap, Veritas soon realizes Ian’s carefully cultivated, devil-may-care roguish image hides something much more powerful. And Ian discovers Veritas has shocking secrets of her own. As they’re drawn to each other with a passion as intense as their peril, either love or justice will prevail. But each will have devastating consequences.

Thoughts on Shades of Wicked: Putting my thoughts together for this one is taking me a MOMENT. I mean, Ian has always been the hedonistic vampire who pokes and pokes and pokes at someone until they just completely lose it. He's the type of extreme pleasure seeker who will try anything once and he absolutely delights in pointing that out to people.

He's also so much more than that. I mean, the guy sold his soul in an effort to bring Mencheres back when he thought Vlad had killed him. He's purposefully over the top so people don't look too deeply at him and they all seem to underestimate him because they see exactly what he wants them to see. Which is kind of exactly what happens to Veritas when she busts in on him to use him in her hunt for Dagon.

To be fair, Veritas also has a few layers SHE doesn't let anybody see. So really, she and Ian are pretty similar in the sense. Veritas, however, went the upstanding, Law Guardian route (instead of the pleasure-loving reprobate). Which means she's hiding A LOT from her fellow Law Guardians because she's pretty much breaking vampire law just by existing.

She also has a serious hate on for the demon Ian needs to break his bargain with, so these two are WELL MATCHED in that respect.

A whole lot of fighting, secrets, family bonds, familiar faces, smoldering looks, innuendo, magic, a vampire who is far more than he pretends to be, and a Law Guardian who has locked herself away so tightly she doesn't know what she's capable of. GOOD STUFF all around!

Into the Fire by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Into the Fire (Night Prince #4) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 23, 2025

Night Prince
1. Once Burned
2. Twice Tempted
3. Bound by Flames
4. Into the Fire - Hardcover | Kindle

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

For nearly six hundred years, Vlad Tepesh cared for nothing, so he had nothing to lose. His brutal reputation ensured that all but the most foolhardy stayed away. Now, falling in love with Leila has put him at the mercy of his passions. And one adversary has found a devastating way to use Vlad’s new bride against him.

A powerful spell links Leila to the necromancer Mircea. If he suffers or dies, so does she. Magic is forbidden to vampires, so Vlad and Leila enlist an unlikely guide as they search for a way to break the spell. But an ancient enemy lies in wait, capable of turning Vlad and Leila’s closest friends against them . . . and finally tearing the lovers apart forever.

Thoughts on Into the Fire: Just when Vlad and Leila think they have a handle on the bad guy who's been causing all their problems, they find out there's a necromancer with a chip on his shoulder. A chip that's kind of specifically Vlad shaped. And? The necromancer has bound his and Leila's lives together so everything he feels, she feels. Which means ending him is off the table. Probably.

Now Vlad and Leila are on the hunt for a way to break the spell tying her to Mircea. This takes them into Ian's orbit and MAN that guy likes his pleasure. He also has slightly more depth than he likes to pretend he does and sometimes he does things in the heat of the moment that might come back to bite him later. Of course, Ian being Ian, he might actually like the biting part. HA. That guy. 

But back to Vlad and Leila! Vlad is doing his usual medieval warlord thing, Leila's pushing back (which also trying to be aware of when pushing might distract Vlad). Leila is also learning a little more about what makes her different from most everyone else. Yup, the lady is special in an powerful bloodline sort of way. Speaking of which, are we ever going to see where Gretchen ends up? I mean, there's a certain former Crusades knight who seems to have a vested interest in keeping her whole and hearty. Just sayin'.

Secrets, a few answers, forgiveness, a power upgrade (or two), a few familiar faces, a vampire who loves with everything inside him, and the lady who can hold her own against him. *thumbs up* all around!

Bound by Flames by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Bound by Flames (Night Prince #3) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 22, 2025

Night Prince
1. Once Burned
2. Twice Tempted
3. Bound by Flames - Paperback | Kindle
4. Into the Fire

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Play with fire, pay the price

Leila's years on the carnie circuit were certainly an education. What she didn't learn: how to be a vampire, or how to be married to the most famous vampire of them all. Adjusting to both has Leila teetering on a knife edge between passion and peril, and now the real danger is about to begin . . .

Vlad must battle with a centuries-old enemy whose reach stretches across continents and whose strength equals his own. It isn't like Vlad to feel fear, but he does . . . for Leila, because his enemy knows she is Vlad's greatest weakness. As friend and foe alike align against him—and his overprotectiveness drives Leila away—Vlad's love for his new bride could be the very thing that dooms them both . . .

Thoughts on Bound by Flames: I'm back with Vlad and Leila and MAN these two have a lot going on. I mean, not only are they facing off against a powerful vampire with a grudge against Vlad (which, by definition, means he's also gunning for Leila), but Vlad is very much a product of his time. Meaning his knee jerk reactions are to muster a big show of force and completely annihilate whoever is rising up against him. He's also a little (teeny-tiny bit) draconian in how he tries to shield Leila by making decisions for her. In her best interests, OF COURSE.

Let's just say that Leila isn't about to roll over and let Vlad get away with that. Well, at least not every time.

That said, Vlad has a reason for being ridiculously overprotective. Because when Leila gets abducted VERY BAD THINGS HAPPEN and nobody likes that. Fortunately, Leila is strong enough to weather what's done to her and she has allies in unexpected places. On the downside, the whole experience pretty much suuuuccccks and isn't something anyone should have to go through.

Vlad's dealing with some big emotions, Leila's getting a bit of a power upgrade, enemies get their comeuppance, new enemies emerge, and there's a whole lot of blood and guts. Because, you know, it's Vlad. And his lady? She's almost as dangerous as he is. *thumbs up*

Twice Tempted by Jeaniene Frost [Review]

Twice Tempted (Night Prince #2) by Jeaniene Frost
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 22, 2025

Night Prince
1. Once Burned
2. Twice Tempted - Paperback | Kindle
3. Bound by Flames
4. Into the Fire

Related Series
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Night Huntress
1. Halfway to the Grave

Night Huntress World
1. First Drop of Crimson

Night Rebel
1. Shades of Wicked

Jeaniene Frost
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Dating the Prince of Darkness has its challenges . . .

Leila's psychic abilities have been failing her,and now she isn't sure what the future holds. If that weren't enough, her lover Vlad has been acting distant. Though Leila is a mere mortal, she's also a modern woman who refuses to accept the cold shoulder treatment forever--especially from the darkly handsome vampire who still won't admit that he loves her.

Like choosing between eternal love and a loveless eternity . . .

Soon circumstances send Leila back to the carnival circuit, where tragedy strikes. And when she finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer who may be closer than she realizes, Leila must decide who to trust--the fiery vampire who arouses her passions like no other, or the tortured knight who longs to be more than a friend? With danger stalking her every step of the way, all it takes is one wrong move to damn her for eternity . . .

Thoughts on Twice Tempted: I decided to dive back into Vlad and Leila's world (after a long absence) and HOO-BOY is it good. Vlad has the fire and the smolder while Leila brings the sparks. Kind of literally, really. Let's just say I'm enjoying being in their world again and leave it at that.

Ha. No. Let's not leave it. Why? Because these two have some SERIOUS baggage. Vlad doesn't want to admit he's in love with Leila because love is a weakness. TO BE FAIR, he comes from a time when his weaknesses were used against him in the most horrific ways and he's not willing to open himself up to that sort of vulnerable position again. BUT...Leila kind needs the words. She's not willing to take anything less than all of Vlad since SHE'S already heart deep and she deserves someone who loves her.

Thus begins a kind of harrowing adventure where Leila leaves Vlad, almost gets blown up, has to face the fact that someone is trying to use her against him, and she has to figure out who to trust. Which is easier said than done because Vlad has a lot of enemies since he's not exactly a subtle kind of guy when it comes to cheesing people off.

The good news? Leila isn't dead (despite Vlad's fears) and she's going to have a long, long life (probably. unless someone ends her) figuring out Vlad's quirks. On the downside, the lady comes PERIOUSLY close to losing said life on several occasions. But then I guess that's just some of the baggage that comes with loving a guy who is known for skewering people who make him angry.

Betrayers are uncovered, bad guys are dealt with (mostly), and Leila and Vlad are working on figuring things out.

Ride or Die by Hailey Edwards [Review]

Ride or Die (The Body Shop #5) by Hailey Edwards
Format: ebook
Source: borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 20, 2025

The Body Shop
1. Fair Market Value
2. Amber Gambler
3. Midnight Auto Parts
4. Cheater Slicks
4. Ride or Die - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Beginner's Guide to Necromancy
1. How to Save an Undead Life

Black Hat Bureau
1. Black Hat, White Witch

The Potentate of Atlanta
1. Shadow of Doubt

Hailey Edwards
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Kierce sacrificed himself to save Frankie, and now it’s her turn to rescue him. Whether he wants her to or not. That means venturing into Abaddon, the land of the dead, and hoping she can locate him within its shadowed depths before Dis Pater notices his favorite toy is missing. But Dis Pater isn’t the only deity she has to fear.

Frankie’s father has learned of her journey down to his domain, and he won’t take no for an answer when he welcomes her into his home. As if one MIA parent materializing wasn’t bad enough, her mother arrives with her own emotional baggage in hand. Forget the perils of traversing the underworld. Navigating this family reunion just might be what kills her.

Thoughts on Ride or Die: Oh.My.Goodness. Kierce is in a bad place (literally) after sacrificing himself so he didn't hurt Frankie and Frankie is VERY NOT OKAY WITH THAT. The being in a bad place part. I mean, she's also not thrilled with the sacrificing because seeing the guy she has feelings for (regardless of how hard it is for her to admit to said feelings) getting hurt for her is difficult, but being a God Blood does give Kierce a measure of immunity against death so there is that.

On the downside of things, having an immunity to death also means a person can be hurt and tortured in horrible ways and not die. Which is (unfortunately) also a reality when you're the Viduus of a death god.

Anywho. Frankie doesn't care what she needs to do to get Kierce out, she's willing to do it. Well, provided her siblings are also kept safe. It turns out she's not cool with sacrifice on any level, except maybe her own. That said, Frankie also gets hit hard with a whole lot of truths she wasn't looking for. Like who her parents are. Which was really something she wasn't expecting to find out so the truth of that kind of threw her (not to mention that her dad is kinda a douchenozzle with some mad scientist aspirations and NO THANK YOU. Her mom's pretty cool, though). However, finding out her parentage also put some things into perspective. Like why her abilities are a little off center and why she has the type of bond she has with Anunit.

Let's just say this was a VERY satisfying ending. Frankie gets answers (so many answers). The bad guys get their comeuppance (so much comeuppance). The past is unveiled and feelings are admitted to. That last part might have been the hardest for Frankie. She's a lady who likes to play her cards close to the vest and finding out what she found out about herself had her questioning a lot of things that were and could be. Fortunately, her friends and family pulled her out of her head and made sure she knows she's loved. GOOD STUFF ALL AROUND!

Robber's Road by J.L. Bryan [Review]

Robber's Road (Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper #22) by J.L. Bryan
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 18, 2025

Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper
1. Ellie Jordan, Ghost Trapper
2. Cold Shadows
3. The Crawling Darkness
4. Terminal
5. House of Whispers
6. Maze of Souls
7. Lullaby
8. The Keeper
9. The Tower
10. The Monster Museum
11. Fire Devil
12. The Necromancer's Library
13. The Trailwalker
14. Midnight Movie
15. The Lodge
16. Cabinet Jack
17. Fallen Wishes
18. Sunset House
19. The Funtime Show
20. Miracle Mountain
21. Mortuary Manor
22. Robber's Road - Paperback | Kindle
23. Evermore Plantation

J.L. Bryan
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

According to legend, a ghostly car haunts the old, rarely traveled road twisting through the woods outside town. Those who wish to see it must follow three rules: drive at night, turn off all the lights inside and outside the car, and silence the car's radio or sound system.

Driving in darkness and silence, navigating only by the light of the moon and the stars, generations of teenagers and other reckless thrill seekers have dared each other into trying to see the legendary car. Some have crashed and died, only adding to the road's stories of danger and death.

New problems bring paranormal investigators Ellie Jordan and Stacey Tolbert racing to the scene, where they face a crash course in how to stop a lethal, yet somehow beloved, supernatural legend before it drags more innocent lives across the finish line.

Thoughts on Robber's Road: I must say that I genuinely enjoy what Ellie and Stacey have to go through as they work on figuring out the whos and whys of the hauntings they're investigating. I mean, there's usually food involved (good food, based on Stacey's unwavering dedication to finding decent eateries in the places they're in) and a whole lot of research (which Ellie doesn't mind engaging in, but Stacey is not a huge fan of). Plus PLUS there is cool, creepy history they get to unearth.

Honestly, these investigations might be a little dangerous (most of the time), but food, library time, and piecing together fact from legend gets a thumbs up from me. (The danger part is a little problematic, tbh, but you take the good with the bad!)

So. This time around, Ellie and Stacey are investigating a haunting on a dangerous road. We're talking a literally dangerous road. One with no guardrails and hairpin turns. And once you throw in the ghostly car that likes to menace folks things get really weird. It also doesn't like survivors. Which means Ellie and Stacey have their work cut out for them as they race (kinda literally) to figure out what's what before another survivor is claimed.

Like I said, I genuinely enjoy all Ellie's adventures from the initial setup (and Ellie's vague distaste of all things outdoorsy) to the research to the piecing together of how to stop whatever it is they're dealing with. GOOD STUFF all around!

Mage Assassins & Other Misfits by Annette Marie and Rob Jacobsen [Review]

Mage Assassins & Other Misfits (The Guild Codex: Warped #5) by Annette Marie and Rob Jacobsen
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 14, 2025

The Guild Codex: Warped
1. Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors
2. Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections
3. Rogue Ghosts & Other Miscreants
3.5. More Than a Little Warped
4. Stolen Sorcery & Other Misadventures
5. Mage Assassins & Other Misfits - Paperback | Kindle
6. Conquering Reality & Other Misconduct

Related Series:
(Find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
The Guild Codex: Spellbound
1. Three Mages and a Margarita

The Guild Codex: Demonized
1. Taming Demons for Beginners

Annette Marie
| Website | Amazon |

Rob Jacobsen
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

The weirdness level of my life has reached an all-time high. Which is saying something, considering I started out as a psychic conman and somehow ended up as a MagiPol agent. And not just any agent. Lately, I’ve been Captain Blythe’s right-hand man and most trusted confidant.

Yeah, I know. Super weird.

It’s also kind of awkward because, unbeknownst to her, I’ve also teamed up with her most loathed nemesis, Darius King, guild master of the Crow and Hammer and the number one guy on the Consilium’s “To Be Eliminated” list.

Oh, and the Consilium? It’s just a secret organization embedded deep in the upper echelons of the MPD that’s using its nefarious influence to take over the world. Or destroy it. We’re still figuring that part out.

“We” being me and Blythe. And me and Darius. But not Blythe and Darius. Like I said, it’s awkward.

Unfortunately, the Consilium knows we’re on to them. Their plans are already in motion, and if we don't find a way to stop them, the mythic world will change for the worse—and there'll be no going back.

Thoughts on Mage Assassins & Other Misfits: I must say that Kit has a finely developed sixth sense for landing in the most unhinged situations a person could land in. With Lienna still dealing with family emergencies, Kit is on his own as he helps both Captain Blythe and Darius in their investigations. Not that the good Cap knows Kit has thrown his hat in with Darius, which is yet another burden Kit is carrying around.

The good news? Lienna does rejoin Kit wherein she immediately gets info-dumped with everything that's been going on since she's been gone (which is a lot). The bad news? Kit and Darius are in the middle of some BIG things and it's dangerous for them and everyone around them. Not that danger stops Lienna from jumping in. She has feelings for Kit (which she's finally admitting to) and she's not about to let him face the things that go bump in the night on his own.

MEANWHILE, since things have reached a boiling point with the Consilium and their nefarious plans are moving forward, all the separate pieces of the investigation are sort of forced to work together. Which means Captain Blythe and Darius have to deal with their past (I'm cautiously holding out hope that they could also have a future together, but I guess part of that depends on whether they survive everything thrown at them. Guys, there is A LOT thrown at them).

ALSO MEANWHILE, Kit's abilities are explored a little more and he and Lienna make some connections regarding what he can do and what he can potentially do. Because Kit's ability to psycho warp is only the beginning. The dude has an entire arsenal up his sleeve and he's only scratched the surface.

Big things are coming (some of them already came) and Kit, Lienna and crew are right in the middle of it all. Not going to lie, I'm ready to see how they beat the bad guys and save the day (because there is SO MUCH they have to right at this point). *thumbs up* all around.

Blood Heir by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Blood Heir (Kate Daniels World #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 8, 2025

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Atlanta was always a dangerous city. Now, as waves of magic and technology compete for supremacy, it’s a place caught in a slow apocalypse, where monsters spawn among the crumbling skyscrapers and supernatural factions struggle for power and survival.

Eight years ago, Julie Lennart left Atlanta to find out who she was. Now she’s back with a new face, a new magic, and a new name—Aurelia Ryder—drawn by the urgent need to protect the family she left behind. An ancient power is stalking her adopted mother, Kate Daniels, an enemy unlike any other, and a string of horrifying murders is its opening gambit.

If Aurelia’s true identity is discovered, those closest to her will die. So her plan is simple: get in, solve the murders, prevent the prophecy from being fulfilled, and get out without being recognized. She expected danger, but she never anticipated that the only man she'd ever loved could threaten everything.

One small misstep could lead to disaster. But for Aurelia, facing disaster is easy; it’s relationships that are hard.

Thoughts on Blood Heir: MAN, this was a good book. Julie/Aurelia (sorry, girl, but you're still Julie in my head) has gone through a lot since she left Atlanta to find herself. Not the least of which is almost dying and acquiring a new face and abilities after facing off against a REALLY bad god/demon. Now the witch oracle is telling her she needs to take care of business back in her old stomping ground and she absolutely can't tell Kate or Curran she's around or everything she's fighting for might fall apart in the worst way.

So Julie's in Atlanta trying to solve a murder (and stop a big evil from acquiring more power) while avoiding Kate and Curran. Avoiding Kate and Curran isn't necessarily difficult, it's the other people who knew Julie in her other life who are causing issues. Seriously. Ascanio is having Julie tailed (without knowing she's Julie) and Derek, who has been in places unknown for the last several years, has popped up and is ALSO looking into the murder Julie is trying to solve. Plus there's Nick and PLENTY of others who knew Julie before and maybe won't realize Aurelia is her, but every interaction has to the potential to unmask her.

But let's get back to Julie and Derek. These two are complicated. Whatever they feel for one another is big and messy and they haven't spoken to one another since Julie left. Plus, Julie isn't the only one who's gone through some changes. Derek is bigger, faster, stronger, and might be a First. Which actually makes sense in a weird way that I can't explain, but also sets up some interesting potential for the future.

Big evil, tricksy street kids, plenty of power, lots of familiar faces, a formerly lone wolf who has found his stride, and a lady who will do whatever it takes to keep the people she cares about safe. SO GOOD.

Sanctuary by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Sanctuary (Roman's Chronicles #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 6, 2025

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

It’s not easy serving Chernobog, the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death…especially during the holidays; and especially when you’re out of eggnog and one of your pesky, freeloading mythic creatures has eaten your last cookie.

Roman would like nothing more than to be left alone, but when a wounded boy stumbles into his yard and begs for sanctuary, Roman takes him in. Now elite mercenaries are camped out on his property, combat mages are dousing the house with fire, and strange priests are unleashing arcane magic. They thought Roman was easy pickings, just a hermit in the woods, but they chose the wrong dark priest to annoy. For while Roman might be patient, he is the Black Volhv, filled with the love of his terrible god. For his adversaries, it's a fight to the death, but for him, it's just another day in the neighborhood.

Thoughts on Sanctuary: The Black Volhv has always been one of my favorites of the individuals Kate can call upon when things turn south. For all he serves the God of Destruction, Darkness and Death, Roman's just this weirdly upbeat guy. Or maybe he just jokes through his pain. Whichever, I like him. I mean, his utter delight at being asked to officiate Kate and Curran's wedding was great, not to mention how he completely took charge of the wedding details.

But the wedding was in the past. This is about Roman trying to avoid family and holiday good cheer thanks to things. THINGS, guys. THINGS. Yeah, Roman has some baggage. It's not his fault. He didn't ask for it. But he has it. And he kind of needs to deal with it.

So. Roman's holiday brooding is interrupted by a boy asking for sanctuary. Which is odd in itself because folks don't usually show up at the Black Volhv's door looking for a safe harbor. Roman being Roman, he takes the kid in. Honestly, once you know about his menagerie of strays, it's not a shock. Plus, Roman is a good guy. He might serve a dark god, but darkness serves a purpose and Roman is good at what he does.

Anywho. A kid asks for sanctuary, Roman obliges, those after the kid show up, and Roman defends his territory. On the plus side, his defenses are top shelf and he gives the mercenaries every chance to disengage and look for easier prey before calling them up. On the downside, whoever wants the boy might be a new player (or an old one awakened, who knows, really?!?!) and they wield significant magic. Which Roman isn't pleased about.

A whole lot of magic, plenty of critters, some one on one time with a god or two, and a brooding Black Volhv who needs to deal with his past so he can be the best dark priest he can be. *thumbs up*

Magic Claims by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Magic Claims (Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #2) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 6, 2025

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides
2. Magic Claims - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

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 ‘due 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.

Thoughts on Magic Claims: I must say that Kate and Curran trying to live normal lives is a little funny. I mean, they're both born protectors and the world they live in throws WAY too many dangerous situations at them to keep them out of the fight. And they have a kiddo who has plenty of his own strength and power and desire to help with the protecting. So, you know, in the end, they are who they are and they can't leave people to die when they could do something about it.

Which is a roundabout way of saying that they take the hard jobs. The ones everyone else thinks will end in blood and screaming. To be fair, there often is blood and screaming, it's usually just coming from their enemies. Yeah, don't cross the Lennarts. They hit hard and fast.

This time around, Kate and Curran are up against an ancient power. Kate knows a lot about ancient powers rising and all that so she's actually the perfect person for the job. And Curran's a First and he's absolutely down for big fights with terrible odds. As an aside, he might have stepped down as the Beast Lord, but he's still the guy a lot of the shifters look up to. He knows this and he knows that change is in the air in regards to the Atlanta pack.

So, big evil, lots of fighting, Kate doing her thing, and a potential new base of operations for Kate, Curran, Conlan, and any shifters who are ready for something new. THINGS are happening and I'm super excited about them!

Magic Tides by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Magic Tides (Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 5, 2025

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides - Paperback | Kindle
2. Magic Claims

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

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 homefront.

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!

Thoughts on Magic Tides: Oh Kate. She managed to stop a rising power intent on destroying the world AND shackle her father (hopefully for good, but WHO KNOWS?) and now she and the fam are doing the regular family thing. Kinda. I mean, how regular can you be when you buy a fort on the coast and immediately start fortifying it for anything that might be gunning for you.

To be fair, things do have a tendency to go sideways when Kate steps in, so maybe excessive fortifications are a good idea. (They're probably a good idea.)

So. Kate is happily working on renovations to the new family compound when Conlan not so subtly informs her that the foreman's nephew has been kidnapped. Kate being Kate, she assures the family she'll get the kid back, straps on her sword, and heads out. Soon she's rescuing kids, meeting up with the local chapter of the Order, heading out to the vampire stronghold, possibly making alliances she's not interested in (but so it goes), and facing off against something with a whole lot of power. Oh, she also blew up a kraken accidentally. As one does.

Kate is gloriously chaotic (as always, but her chaos get the job done so everybody sort of rolls with it), Curran is making alliances of his own (that's what happens when old friends visit), Conlan is a SERIOUSLY gifted kiddo (I mean, with parents like his, gifted might be an understatement), and there's a whole lot of magic, vampiric and knightly politics, and monsters running around. In other words, it's just a regular day for Kate and crew. *thumbs up*

Iron and Magic by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Iron and Magic (Iron Covenant #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 3, 2025

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Hugh d’Ambray, Preceptor of the Iron Dogs, Warlord of the Builder of Towers, served only one man. Now his immortal, nearly omnipotent master has cast him aside. Hugh is a shadow of the warrior he was, but when he learns that the Iron Dogs, soldiers who would follow him anywhere, are being hunted down and murdered, he must make a choice: to fade away or to be the leader he was born to be. Hugh knows he must carve a new place for himself and his people, but they have no money, no shelter, and no food, and the necromancers are coming. Fast.

Elara Harper is a creature who should not exist. Her enemies call her Abomination; her people call her White Lady. Tasked with their protection, she's trapped between the magical heavyweights about to collide and plunge the state of Kentucky into a war that humans have no power to stop. Desperate to shield her people and their simple way of life, she would accept help from the devil himself—and Hugh d’Ambray might qualify.

Hugh needs a base, Elara needs soldiers. Both are infamous for betraying their allies, so how can they create a believable alliance to meet the challenge of their enemies?

As the prophet says: “It is better to marry than to burn.”

Hugh and Elara may do both.

Thoughts on Iron and Magic: No lie, I didn't expect to like Hugh d'Ambray when I started this book. I mean, I expected a good book that would keep me on the edge of my seat, but I didn't expect to LIKE the guy. I mean, we've seen him torture and kill and kidnap in the past and YET I WANTED HIM TO WIN. I WANTED HIM TO CRUSH HIS ENEMIES and do all the things warlords do when faced with an insurmountable task.

To be fair (and to backtrack), Hugh is a product of his upbringing. He was shaped by Roland and Voron from the time he was a child and they made him an effective killing machine. When Roland ripped his power away from Hugh it broke him a little. He went from being a nearly immortal (or actually immortal maybe) warlord to a man who has a whole lot of battle experience, but no cause. The remainder of his Iron Dogs rallied him and gave him something to focus on (their continued survival), but he still had this gaping hole inside him where Roland's magic used to be.

So he made a deal to keep his Dogs alive, as any good commander would, and he and Elara were suddenly orbiting one another. Kind of like swordsmen. Because MAN these two like to verbally spar. The thing is that Elara and her people give Hugh a purpose just the Iron Dogs couldn't. Protecting them, keeping them safe from the bad things that creep in the night starts to fill up that empty place inside him.

On Elara's end, she agreed to the marriage with about as much reluctance as Hugh. These two are NOT friendly with one another at first. Sure, they both play the part of a happy couple for outsiders, but they do it only because their alliance benefits their respective people. Until, you know, it turns into something more. Not that either of them will admit it. I mean, fighting is their love language and they do love to argue.

There is A LOT going on here in addition to Hugh and Elara glaring daggers at one another. Elara's magic is powerful and dangerous (and a closely guarded secret). Hugh is more than just a warlord who's been cast aside and he needs to figure himself out before the things that go bump in the night get to them. There are deadly creatures in the forest, a castle (and her people) to protect, and a possible old horror trying to rise.

Like I said, I didn't expect to like Hugh, but here we are. I'm absolutely ready to see what happens next.

Magic Stars by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Magic Stars (Grey Wolf #1) by Ilona Andrews
Format: ebook
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: August 31, 2025

Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels
1. Magic Bites

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

Scarred, solitary Derek Gaunt has separated from his Pack, and is truly a lone wolf. With no family he answers to no one; but is fiercely loyal to a chosen few. So, when several of those close to him are murdered, he’ll stop at nothing to hunt their killer through the magic-drenched streets of Atlanta.

Never one to be left on the sidelines, equally determined—some might say stubborn—Julie Lennart-Olsen soon joins in his pursuit; and what began as revenge turns into a race to save the city. Their search pits them against powers they never imagined and magic so old, it predates history. It may cost Derek his life, but there are things for which even he would risk everything.

Thoughts on Magic Stars: Oh, man. Derek and Julie. These two have a heck of a lot their dealing with and they have no problem wading into dangerous messes when they need to.

This mess starts with a family that was murdered. Unfortunately for the killers, these people were important to Derek and Derek squeezes every drop of information out of them before he *ahem* moves on. Julie's on a case that intersects with Derek's and soon the two are hunting down the individual at the heart of this crime.

And that's where things get weird. Well, weirder. Let's just say there are bloodthirsty kinda-mermaids and a warlock who refuses to back down and magic that tries to subvert. Soon Derek and Julie are avoiding deadly pitfalls, facing off against dangerous hunters, and going toe to toe with some very old magic.

Derek and Julie. I'm all in with these two. Let's see where they go.

Small Magics by Ilona Andrews [Review]

Small Magics (Kate Daniels #0.5, 5.3, 5.9) by Ilona Andrews
Format: paperback
Source: purchased
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Date read: September 1, 2025

Kate Daniels
0.5. A Questionable Client
1. Magic Bites
2. Magic Burns
3. Magic Strikes
3.5. Magic Mourns
4. Magic Bleeds
4.5. Magic Dreams
Curran POV Collection
5. Magic Slays
5.3. Magic Tests
5.4. Magic Gifts
5.5. Gunmetal Magic
5.8. An Ill-Advised Rescue
6. Magic Rises
6.5. Magic Steals
7. Magic Breaks
8. Magic Shifts
9. Magic Binds
10. Magic Triumphs
Small Magics - Paperback | Kindle

Related Series:
(find all the books in the series on the 1st book review)
Grey Wolf
1. Magic Stars

Iron Covenant
1. Iron and Magic

Kate Daniels: Wilmington Years
1. Magic Tides

Kate Daniels World
1. Blood Heir

Roman's Chronicles
1. Sanctuary

Ilona Andrews
| Website | Amazon |

Synopsis (Goodreads):

An irresistible compilation of five previously published stories by the New York Times bestselling author of the Kate Daniels series; including Kate’s very first meeting with Saiman, some related adventures, two unforgettable “outside” excursions, and additional material from both Curran and Jim’s point of view.

A QUESTIONABLE CLIENT
In this ‘intro’ to the Kate Daniels world, we meet the extremely ‘shifty’ Saiman for the very first time, when Kate takes on the task of serving as his bodyguard to protect him from some very determined—and dangerous—Russian wizards.

RETRIBUTION CLAUSE
Saiman’s cousin, Adam—a frost giant and also an insurance adjuster—and his enigmatic partner, Siroun, set out on an impossible mission to enforce a client’s Retribution Clause; that is, to kill the person who killed her. But is their target even guilty? Magic and mayhem and a little personal chemistry will reveal the truth!

OF SWINE AND ROSES
A young adult story about a girl, a pig, some magic, and the worst date ever. Chad Thurman is a thug, who carries brass knuckles in both pockets and lays magic traps for intruders into "his" neighborhood. The last thing Alena Kornov wants to do is to go on a date with him. But when her family pressures her, she can't say no. Now the ice-cream is absent, the pig is running for its life, and we won't even mention the dead guy...

GRACE OF SMALL MAGICS
Grace has always known she wasn’t like everyone else and that her family has magic abilities. After flying to meet the head of Clan Dreoch in order to fulfill her families’ “duties” as servants, Grace finds herself in the middle of a mage clan war…

MAGIC TESTS
A short story in the Kate Daniels universe. Kate recruits her teenage ward, Julie, to search out a missing student whose location spell has her hidden somewhere on campus…

CURRAN POV
Everybody has a point of view…especially Curran Lennart, Beast Lord of the Free People of Atlanta—and Kate Daniel’s mate. Here’s what Curran was thinking while Kate was kicking butt and taking names from Magic Bites to Magic Bleeds.

Thoughts on Small Magics: I had read A Questionable Client and Magic Tests (and parts of the Curran POV) previously and, well, I genuinely enjoy spending time in Kate's messed up world (and head). So getting to dive into a couple of stories I hadn't read? GREAT FUN!

Retribution Clause - Adam and Siroun are just trying to close the book on their most recent insurance job and nothing's what it seems. I must admit, I like these two. They're both stuffing down some feelings and they both have a lot of hidden facets and I LIKE THAT.

Of Swine and Roses - Familial guilt is a heavy burden and when Alena's family drops it on her, she agrees to go on a date with someone she really doesn't want to go out with. The date's a disaster and that's BEFORE Alena has to figure out how to corner a pig. Magic, man. It's full of surprises.

Grace of Small Magics - It's easy to fight an attraction when there's a massive power imbalance. Well, maybe it's not so easy, but it's something that has to be done. When Grace is thrust into the middle of a sanctioned clan war and the head of the clan that's held her family's servitude for years pushes all her buttons, THINGS HAPPEN. Mostly of the bloody kind, but also maybe of the potential coupledom kind. *thumbs up*

Curran POV - I've read several of these scenes previously and they're just FUN. Seriously. The ones I hadn't read before? ALSO FUN. So, lots of fun with a heaping side of watching Curran needle Kate (and vice versa). YES!