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silverwizzard's review against another edition
4.0
Not expecting to like this so much. Used to hate Hugh character but really liked how he developed here. Also since this is the first book in the series,still lots of banter and expectation in the relationship. Looking forward for more.
Needed to finish this quick before continuing with Magic Triumphs.
Needed to finish this quick before continuing with Magic Triumphs.
witchylevy's review against another edition
5.0
In Kate's series I hated Hugh. In this book getting a glimpse of his thoughts makes him more understandable. Elara is freaking awesome. She's strong, caring, and has a mean/ sarcastic streak. The sniping is hilarious and gives the relationship character.
origamy's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Loved seeing the flipside of things with Hugh's perspective and seeing how he really is as a person away from Kate. The relationship between him and Elara was great and I'm really interested in seeing how it develops. Speaking of Elara, I need to know what she is because damn. Really interesting side characters and just seeing the KD world from other perspectives outside of Atlanta was great.
taranaimc's review against another edition
adventurous
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
amym84's review against another edition
5.0
After being cast out by Roland, the former Preceptor of the Iron Dogs Hugh d’Ambray is trying really hard to drown his sorrows in drink. At least enough to black out, forget what happened, wake up, remember, and do it all again.
Finally waking from this stupor long enough to be somewhat comprehending, Hugh realizes that the men and women he once commanded are still there ready to follow him, and he also realizes the fight is not over as it seems someone has been hunting down what remains of his warriors.
Elara Harper is known to her people as the White Lady, blessed (or cursed?) with strong magic that is both revered and feared, she takes the protection of her people seriously. When her community faces threats from multiple sources, an agreement with Hugh and his Iron Dogs seems to be the most mutually beneficial option for both groups. But there’s only one way the pact will be taken seriously by outsiders: marriage.
If any of you follow Ilona Andrews (like yours truly, and I recommend it because they are delightful), you’ll know that this story started out as an April Fool’s joke a couple of years ago. Well, the joke was on them because an outpouring of fan enthusiasm ensued and being the awesome author lords that they are, Ilona Andrews have basically gifted us with this wonderful spinoff in the Kate Daniels world.
Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how Hugh carrying his own story would pan out. I mean he’s complete anti-hero to the core, he’s ok being the “bad guy,” he’ll use charm to deceive you into getting what he wants, and he had plenty of asshole moments for sure. I loved that these aspects of his character were kept intact. Honestly, he’s not here to be liked, he’s here to do a job: protect. And changing that would be a disservice to this intriguing character.
What ends up happening, however, is Hugh winds up pulling Elara’s people into his orbit, maybe not consciously, but he comes to take their protection seriously. We get so much depth to his character as we see his loyalty and honor–and seeing where his own loyalty and honor got him. But make no mistake, he’s always looking for an angle.
And Elara proves to be the perfect foil to Hugh. Their marriage of convenience was a wonderful way to get these two leaders to have plenty of sparring time. Both of them are used to leading in their own, different, ways and I loved every time Elara would outwit Hugh, something he’s not used to for sure. Of course all the animosity leads to some wonderful tension between these two, sparks flew anytime they had page time together, and I’m very interested to watch this slow burn romance play out.
I loved that Elara is kind of this new mysterious entity in this already established world. Ilona Andrews does a really good job of keeping Elara’s background cloaked in mystery throughout the entire book, only giving us little crumbs to glean what we can. I think this is smart because Iron and Magic definitely feels connected to its parent series (complete with some great cameos) and the final upcoming book. After Kate’s series is finished I look forward to continuing with Hugh’s because one thing Iron & Magic definitely does is open up the world.
Since Hugh’s story, and where he is at the beginning, is so connect to where he came from in Kate’s story, I’d say this one is better read having previously read Kate Daniel’s (trust me, you won’t be sorry). Ilona Andrews is a master at rehashing past events so readers can remember how all the pieces fit together.
I’m supremely impressed with what Ilona Andrews has achieved in Iron and Magic with Hugh’s story, and I honestly can’t wait for him to break away from Kate’s series even further to see what direction he goes next.
Finally waking from this stupor long enough to be somewhat comprehending, Hugh realizes that the men and women he once commanded are still there ready to follow him, and he also realizes the fight is not over as it seems someone has been hunting down what remains of his warriors.
Elara Harper is known to her people as the White Lady, blessed (or cursed?) with strong magic that is both revered and feared, she takes the protection of her people seriously. When her community faces threats from multiple sources, an agreement with Hugh and his Iron Dogs seems to be the most mutually beneficial option for both groups. But there’s only one way the pact will be taken seriously by outsiders: marriage.
If any of you follow Ilona Andrews (like yours truly, and I recommend it because they are delightful), you’ll know that this story started out as an April Fool’s joke a couple of years ago. Well, the joke was on them because an outpouring of fan enthusiasm ensued and being the awesome author lords that they are, Ilona Andrews have basically gifted us with this wonderful spinoff in the Kate Daniels world.
Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how Hugh carrying his own story would pan out. I mean he’s complete anti-hero to the core, he’s ok being the “bad guy,” he’ll use charm to deceive you into getting what he wants, and he had plenty of asshole moments for sure. I loved that these aspects of his character were kept intact. Honestly, he’s not here to be liked, he’s here to do a job: protect. And changing that would be a disservice to this intriguing character.
What ends up happening, however, is Hugh winds up pulling Elara’s people into his orbit, maybe not consciously, but he comes to take their protection seriously. We get so much depth to his character as we see his loyalty and honor–and seeing where his own loyalty and honor got him. But make no mistake, he’s always looking for an angle.
And Elara proves to be the perfect foil to Hugh. Their marriage of convenience was a wonderful way to get these two leaders to have plenty of sparring time. Both of them are used to leading in their own, different, ways and I loved every time Elara would outwit Hugh, something he’s not used to for sure. Of course all the animosity leads to some wonderful tension between these two, sparks flew anytime they had page time together, and I’m very interested to watch this slow burn romance play out.
I loved that Elara is kind of this new mysterious entity in this already established world. Ilona Andrews does a really good job of keeping Elara’s background cloaked in mystery throughout the entire book, only giving us little crumbs to glean what we can. I think this is smart because Iron and Magic definitely feels connected to its parent series (complete with some great cameos) and the final upcoming book. After Kate’s series is finished I look forward to continuing with Hugh’s because one thing Iron & Magic definitely does is open up the world.
Since Hugh’s story, and where he is at the beginning, is so connect to where he came from in Kate’s story, I’d say this one is better read having previously read Kate Daniel’s (trust me, you won’t be sorry). Ilona Andrews is a master at rehashing past events so readers can remember how all the pieces fit together.
I’m supremely impressed with what Ilona Andrews has achieved in Iron and Magic with Hugh’s story, and I honestly can’t wait for him to break away from Kate’s series even further to see what direction he goes next.
amym84's review against another edition
5.0
After being cast out by Roland, the former Preceptor of the Iron Dogs Hugh d’Ambray is trying really hard to drown his sorrows in drink. At least enough to black out, forget what happened, wake up, remember, and do it all again.
Finally waking from this stupor long enough to be somewhat comprehending, Hugh realizes that the men and women he once commanded are still there ready to follow him, and he also realizes the fight is not over as it seems someone has been hunting down what remains of his warriors.
Elara Harper is known to her people as the White Lady, blessed (or cursed?) with strong magic that is both revered and feared, she takes the protection of her people seriously. When her community faces threats from multiple sources, an agreement with Hugh and his Iron Dogs seems to be the most mutually beneficial option for both groups. But there’s only one way the pact will be taken seriously by outsiders: marriage.
If any of you follow Ilona Andrews (like yours truly, and I recommend it because they are delightful), you’ll know that this story started out as an April Fool’s joke a couple of years ago. Well, the joke was on them because an outpouring of fan enthusiasm ensued and being the awesome author lords that they are, Ilona Andrews have basically gifted us with this wonderful spinoff in the Kate Daniels world.
Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how Hugh carrying his own story would pan out. I mean he’s complete anti-hero to the core, he’s ok being the “bad guy,” he’ll use charm to deceive you into getting what he wants, and he had plenty of asshole moments for sure. I loved that these aspects of his character were kept intact. Honestly, he’s not here to be liked, he’s here to do a job: protect. And changing that would be a disservice to this intriguing character.
What ends up happening, however, is Hugh winds up pulling Elara’s people into his orbit, maybe not consciously, but he comes to take their protection seriously. We get so much depth to his character as we see his loyalty and honor–and seeing where his own loyalty and honor got him. But make no mistake, he’s always looking for an angle.
And Elara proves to be the perfect foil to Hugh. Their marriage of convenience was a wonderful way to get these two leaders to have plenty of sparring time. Both of them are used to leading in their own, different, ways and I loved every time Elara would outwit Hugh, something he’s not used to for sure. Of course all the animosity leads to some wonderful tension between these two, sparks flew anytime they had page time together, and I’m very interested to watch this slow burn romance play out.
I loved that Elara is kind of this new mysterious entity in this already established world. Ilona Andrews does a really good job of keeping Elara’s background cloaked in mystery throughout the entire book, only giving us little crumbs to glean what we can. I think this is smart because Iron and Magic definitely feels connected to its parent series (complete with some great cameos) and the final upcoming book. After Kate’s series is finished I look forward to continuing with Hugh’s because one thing Iron & Magic definitely does is open up the world.
Since Hugh’s story, and where he is at the beginning, is so connect to where he came from in Kate’s story, I’d say this one is better read having previously read Kate Daniel’s (trust me, you won’t be sorry). Ilona Andrews is a master at rehashing past events so readers can remember how all the pieces fit together.
I’m supremely impressed with what Ilona Andrews has achieved in Iron and Magic with Hugh’s story, and I honestly can’t wait for him to break away from Kate’s series even further to see what direction he goes next.
Finally waking from this stupor long enough to be somewhat comprehending, Hugh realizes that the men and women he once commanded are still there ready to follow him, and he also realizes the fight is not over as it seems someone has been hunting down what remains of his warriors.
Elara Harper is known to her people as the White Lady, blessed (or cursed?) with strong magic that is both revered and feared, she takes the protection of her people seriously. When her community faces threats from multiple sources, an agreement with Hugh and his Iron Dogs seems to be the most mutually beneficial option for both groups. But there’s only one way the pact will be taken seriously by outsiders: marriage.
If any of you follow Ilona Andrews (like yours truly, and I recommend it because they are delightful), you’ll know that this story started out as an April Fool’s joke a couple of years ago. Well, the joke was on them because an outpouring of fan enthusiasm ensued and being the awesome author lords that they are, Ilona Andrews have basically gifted us with this wonderful spinoff in the Kate Daniels world.
Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how Hugh carrying his own story would pan out. I mean he’s complete anti-hero to the core, he’s ok being the “bad guy,” he’ll use charm to deceive you into getting what he wants, and he had plenty of asshole moments for sure. I loved that these aspects of his character were kept intact. Honestly, he’s not here to be liked, he’s here to do a job: protect. And changing that would be a disservice to this intriguing character.
What ends up happening, however, is Hugh winds up pulling Elara’s people into his orbit, maybe not consciously, but he comes to take their protection seriously. We get so much depth to his character as we see his loyalty and honor–and seeing where his own loyalty and honor got him. But make no mistake, he’s always looking for an angle.
And Elara proves to be the perfect foil to Hugh. Their marriage of convenience was a wonderful way to get these two leaders to have plenty of sparring time. Both of them are used to leading in their own, different, ways and I loved every time Elara would outwit Hugh, something he’s not used to for sure. Of course all the animosity leads to some wonderful tension between these two, sparks flew anytime they had page time together, and I’m very interested to watch this slow burn romance play out.
I loved that Elara is kind of this new mysterious entity in this already established world. Ilona Andrews does a really good job of keeping Elara’s background cloaked in mystery throughout the entire book, only giving us little crumbs to glean what we can. I think this is smart because Iron and Magic definitely feels connected to its parent series (complete with some great cameos) and the final upcoming book. After Kate’s series is finished I look forward to continuing with Hugh’s because one thing Iron & Magic definitely does is open up the world.
Since Hugh’s story, and where he is at the beginning, is so connect to where he came from in Kate’s story, I’d say this one is better read having previously read Kate Daniel’s (trust me, you won’t be sorry). Ilona Andrews is a master at rehashing past events so readers can remember how all the pieces fit together.
I’m supremely impressed with what Ilona Andrews has achieved in Iron and Magic with Hugh’s story, and I honestly can’t wait for him to break away from Kate’s series even further to see what direction he goes next.
deazi's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Wie immer ein tolles Buch und ich bin sehr gespannt wie es weiter geht....
In der Hauptreihe war Hugh ja nicht gerade der sympathisch Held, aber schon da war irgendwie klar das mehr in seiner Story steckt. Ich fand es also sehr cool in besser kennen zu lernen und seine Entwicklung zu verfolgen. :) ich würde ihn zwar nie als Helden sehen , aber er gibt einen spannenden Anti-Helden ab.
Elara war ebenfalls eine typische Illona Andrews Figur. Taffe, coole und starke Protagonistin, die defintiv einiges an Geschichte hat...über die ich unbedingt mehr lesen möchte.
Fazit: spannend und voller Magie. Super zu lesen und sowohl amüsant als auch fesselnd. Kann alleine gelesen werden und ich hätte gerne den nächsten Band ...
In der Hauptreihe war Hugh ja nicht gerade der sympathisch Held, aber schon da war irgendwie klar das mehr in seiner Story steckt. Ich fand es also sehr cool in besser kennen zu lernen und seine Entwicklung zu verfolgen. :) ich würde ihn zwar nie als Helden sehen , aber er gibt einen spannenden Anti-Helden ab.
Elara war ebenfalls eine typische Illona Andrews Figur. Taffe, coole und starke Protagonistin, die defintiv einiges an Geschichte hat...über die ich unbedingt mehr lesen möchte.
Fazit: spannend und voller Magie. Super zu lesen und sowohl amüsant als auch fesselnd. Kann alleine gelesen werden und ich hätte gerne den nächsten Band ...
katja_weinert's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
aspire's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
5.0
Another awesome addition, far better than I even expected
Fantastic addition to the always magnificent Kate Daniels series. Far better than I even actually expected it to be. I never understood the appeal of those who fangirl'd or guy'd over Hugh, as he was so violent and evil acting. But this book made me a huge fan of his. I didn't expect to root for and appreciate him so much! And Elara is a worthy partner and an equal to him. I liked the hate and slow burn romance Andrews is so good at, and *************************SPOILER ALERT********************************************************************************************************************************
the sex scene when they finally did get together towards the end was hotter than Andrews' typical, occasional sex scenes in their books, IMO, so nice bonus!
All in all, just fantastic-- engrossing plot and story, interesting world as always with new creatures and myths introduced along with the familiar ones from the Kate Daniels' world, action-packed, good character development, a bit of mystery of Elara's powers and Hughe's, too, throughout and continuing into the next book(s), and no cliffhanger ending while still leaving me chomping at the bit for the next 2 in the trilogy! It is a little bit gorier than previous KD's books, but then it is Hugh-- who has been trained since childhood to murder, is violent and a former villain turning anti-hero and who is becoming self-aware to choose his own path now. Highly recommend to fans of the Kate Daniels books. Can stand alone for those who haven't read KD yet, but will be far better if you read the first 9 of Kate Daniels series before reading this book. According to the authors, this one comes before KD 10, then read Iron Covenant 2 and 3 for the correct reading order.
Love this husband and wife author team so much!!
Fantastic addition to the always magnificent Kate Daniels series. Far better than I even actually expected it to be. I never understood the appeal of those who fangirl'd or guy'd over Hugh, as he was so violent and evil acting. But this book made me a huge fan of his. I didn't expect to root for and appreciate him so much! And Elara is a worthy partner and an equal to him. I liked the hate and slow burn romance Andrews is so good at, and *************************SPOILER ALERT********************************************************************************************************************************
the sex scene when they finally did get together towards the end was hotter than Andrews' typical, occasional sex scenes in their books, IMO, so nice bonus!
All in all, just fantastic-- engrossing plot and story, interesting world as always with new creatures and myths introduced along with the familiar ones from the Kate Daniels' world, action-packed, good character development, a bit of mystery of Elara's powers and Hughe's, too, throughout and continuing into the next book(s), and no cliffhanger ending while still leaving me chomping at the bit for the next 2 in the trilogy! It is a little bit gorier than previous KD's books, but then it is Hugh-- who has been trained since childhood to murder, is violent and a former villain turning anti-hero and who is becoming self-aware to choose his own path now. Highly recommend to fans of the Kate Daniels books. Can stand alone for those who haven't read KD yet, but will be far better if you read the first 9 of Kate Daniels series before reading this book. According to the authors, this one comes before KD 10, then read Iron Covenant 2 and 3 for the correct reading order.
Love this husband and wife author team so much!!