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A review by dellydoos
Magic Burns by Ilona Andrews
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Okay, so I read this in a night. I think I've found my new obsession.
What's becoming increasingly evident in these novels is that, while they are undeniably plot-driven, the characters are gradually developing deeper relationships and growing more complex with each installment. Take Kate, for instance; she remains an absolute joy to read about, but as a reader, you're left in the dark about much of her backstory. The series cleverly parcels out morsels of her upbringing and the intricacies of her tortured past, building a captivating sense of mystery as the narrative unfolds. Personally, I'm loving the gradual revelation, it's keeping me hooked book after book. However, for those seeking the full story right from book one, they might find themselves perhaps teased, as the series unfolds its secrets to only loyalists who stay with the series.
The other thing that gets easier to understand is the world building. In the first book, it was a really strange concept to get your head around, that this is a modern city with fantasy creatures- but the city has fallen into disrepair since the magic switch occurred years ago... and now all these technologies; water-powered cars, faelaterns and m-scanners run the city. It was a lot in the first book. But as the series progresses, the once perplexing landscape becomes more familiar, offering a deeper connection and context to the intricate blend of magic and technology.
Yet, my lone grievance lies in the writing's simplicity. The lack of detailed descriptions leaves me yearning for more answers regarding the plot's mysteries and the motivations of certain characters. The abrupt endings, occurring swiftly after the climax, leave loose ends dangling, a narrative choice that I'm hoping gets answered in following books.
But so far I'm having the time of my life reading this series. The writing, whilst simple and sometimes lacking detailed description, has just the funniest and sarcastic tone. Kate's inner monologue as me cackling, she's just a delight. And the romance is just delicious, and so far no one's even gotten together! Perfection, this means I won't get bored by book 3.
Onwards! 4/5 stars.
What's becoming increasingly evident in these novels is that, while they are undeniably plot-driven, the characters are gradually developing deeper relationships and growing more complex with each installment. Take Kate, for instance; she remains an absolute joy to read about, but as a reader, you're left in the dark about much of her backstory. The series cleverly parcels out morsels of her upbringing and the intricacies of her tortured past, building a captivating sense of mystery as the narrative unfolds. Personally, I'm loving the gradual revelation, it's keeping me hooked book after book. However, for those seeking the full story right from book one, they might find themselves perhaps teased, as the series unfolds its secrets to only loyalists who stay with the series.
The other thing that gets easier to understand is the world building. In the first book, it was a really strange concept to get your head around, that this is a modern city with fantasy creatures- but the city has fallen into disrepair since the magic switch occurred years ago... and now all these technologies; water-powered cars, faelaterns and m-scanners run the city. It was a lot in the first book. But as the series progresses, the once perplexing landscape becomes more familiar, offering a deeper connection and context to the intricate blend of magic and technology.
Yet, my lone grievance lies in the writing's simplicity. The lack of detailed descriptions leaves me yearning for more answers regarding the plot's mysteries and the motivations of certain characters. The abrupt endings, occurring swiftly after the climax, leave loose ends dangling, a narrative choice that I'm hoping gets answered in following books.
But so far I'm having the time of my life reading this series. The writing, whilst simple and sometimes lacking detailed description, has just the funniest and sarcastic tone. Kate's inner monologue as me cackling, she's just a delight. And the romance is just delicious, and so far no one's even gotten together! Perfection, this means I won't get bored by book 3.
Onwards! 4/5 stars.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death