Magic Burns

 I had such a great time reading the first Kate Daniel's book, Magic Bites, that I couldn't wait to read the second book in the series. I looked up the author online and was surprised to discover that Ilona Andrews is actually a husband and wife writing team: Ilona Gordon and Andrew Gordon. How cool is that?! There are currently four books in the Kate Daniel series with a fifth book on its way. I picked up book 2 in the Kate Daniel series called Magic Burns.

Description: Kate Daniels is a mercenary who cleans up the mess left by magic. She is very familiar with the waves of paranormal energy ebb and flow across Atlanta. Once in every seven years a flare comes, a time when magic runs rampant, which can be a really big problem. When Kate is sought out by the Pack,Atlanta's paramilitary clan of shape shifters, she quickly realizes it is much easier said than done, especially when there is a possible epic tug of war between two gods hoping for rebirth. If Kate can't stop the cataclysmic showdown, the city may not survive.

Review: Magic Burns is an excellent second book in the Kate Daniel series. Andrews weaves magic, technology, and Celtic mythology in this installment without dragging the book down. Magic Burns takes place where the first book ends. Kate is still struggling financially and takes up another project to help her income. She is still a smart-mouth, who doesn't filter any of her thoughts when she talks. Her interactions with other paranormal groups continue and she keeps trying to do good while staying as sassy and likable as before.

  The mystery and the villain this time around is much harder and complex. Many of the characters from the first book reappear and are developed. While it may not be necessary to read the first book since Andrews gives sufficient prior information, I think you might be missing out on a lot of character development and interactions. As usual, I loved the action, humor, and the tantalizing, possible romance between Curran, the Lord Beast and leader of the pack, and our plucky heroine. We are given a few more clues regarding Kate's background and her powers. I can't wait to read book three!

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: There is strong language throughout the book. The violence can be a bit gory for some. If the book were a movie, I would rate it as rated "R". I can see teen appeal with this series, but I would be a bit reluctant to have it my high school library.

If you like this book try: Magic Strikes (Book 3) by Ilona Andrews, Fray by Joss Whedon, Moon Called by Patricia Briggs

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