Spoiler Warning: This review contains spoilers from the previews books. Read with caution if you have yet to finish the series.
Here we are, at the culmination of more than a decade of Kate and Curran’s Magic. This urban fantasy series has become one of my absolute favorites. Despite a bit of a rough start, each subsequent installment only gets better and better. The sometimes dark, sometimes funny, always entertaining journey of Kate’s unfolding has a lot of heart, which is displayed to its fullest in this final entry.
We’ve reached the point where Roland, Kate’s father and near god-like figure, is set to launch his offensive against her since she refuses to yield to him. Her power has only grown and sharpened with time which she has precious little of before the inevitable confrontation. She and her husband, former Pack’s Beast Lord, now have an adorable little monster of their own. Conlan is their very own Jack-Jack of the family. He steals the show in every scene, I’m not sorry to say.
Of course, even with the impending clash with her father, Kate has been challenged by yet another mysterious ancient power. Along with this new enemy, we are introduced to new mythical creatures that is the hallmark of every Kate Daniels’ book. The provocations from this archaic adversary fight for Kate’s attention even as she prepares to make sure Curran and her son come out alive after the dust settles, no matter the cost to herself.
In the midst of all this, we are reminded that Kate is still human and a new mom besides. I love how she still has to deal with the trials of trying to keep a toddler entertained despite the apocalyptic emergencies happening around her. She also races her son to the doctor for every bump, scrape, and cough just like the rest of us. With each new surprise her son presents them, her husband couldn’t be prouder and Kate more mortified. The new family unit is as endearing as it is hilarious. As Kate and Curran deal with the new stresses in their own ways, there is no doubt that the other comes first. Love and family is their cornerstone and it is heartwarmingly displayed here.
Speaking of family, Nick Feldman is Kate’s brother of sorts who views her as an abomination. Yet, Kate has enough human decency to help him when he finds himself cornered. In spite of her status and power, she still claims him as family (“Uncle Nick Stupidhead” to her son). How many of us can find it in ourselves to swallow our pride and be as gracious?
Magic Triumphs lovingly wraps up Kate and Curran’s story. We see cameos of characters we have grown to know and love along with glimpses of what may be to come. This is by no means the end of an era, and I do mean that literally (hint, hint). If you love urban fantasy and haven’t started this series or are uncertain with its beginning, don’t hesitate any longer! It is well worth your time and guaranteed to warm your heart, despite breaking it at times. Plus, there are nods to The Hobbit and The Princess Bride here, certainly an exemplary reflection of taste. Go forth and experience the Magic of Ilona Andrews for yourselves.
Magic Triumphs is out now in the US and will be out August 30th in the UK!
Jennie Ivins
Julia Kitvaria Sarene