Steel's Edge by Ilona Andrews
Narrator: Renée Raudman
Series: The Edge #4
Published by Recorded Books
Published on: May 3, 2013
Genres: Fantasy
Length: 15 hrs & 25 mins
Format: Audiobook
Source: Purchased
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The Edge lies between worlds, on the border between the Broken, where people shop at Wal-Mart and magic is a fairy tale—and the Weird, where blueblood aristocrats rule, changelings roam, and the strength of your magic can change your destiny…
Charlotte de Ney is as noble as they come, a blueblood straight out of the Weird. But even though she possesses rare magical healing abilities, her life has brought her nothing but pain. After her marriage crumbles, she flees to the Edge to build a new home for herself. Until Richard Mar is brought to her for treatment, and Charlotte’s life is turned upside down once again.
Richard is a swordsman without peer, future head of his large and rambunctious Edger clan—and he’s on a clandestine quest to wipe out slavers trafficking humans in the Weird. So when his presence leads his very dangerous enemies to Charlotte, she vows to help Richard destroy them. The slavers’ operation, however, goes deeper than Richard knows, and even working together, Charlotte and Richard may not survive...
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It should come as no surprise that I’ve been enjoying this series a lot, but I haven’t LOVED any of the installments yet, until now. When I first discovered that this final book featured a healer as the main heroine, I had some qualms as to whether Charlotte would be able to achieve the level of badass-ery that I’ve come to expect from Ilona Andrews. Case in point, FATE’S EDGE’s Audrey Callahan wasn’t a fighter either, and ended up being my least favourite THE EDGE female protagonist. All of my doubts quickly flew the coop though when I learned that de Ney’s abilities could also be used to harm, and I’m not talking little ouchies here, but mass murdering plagues. Never have I been so happy to eat my words! The world-building, narration, secondary characters, and storytelling absolutely rocked too. This was the series finale after all, and this author duo doesn’t do half-assed. Period.
I liked that the protagonists were older; they’ve both been married once already, are individuals first, and a couple second. Charlotte and Richard have been around the block a couple of times, and as a result, were unwilling to settle for anything less than true love. It made them both more accepting of their respective faults; the flash fire romance was believable on account of them knowing exactly what they wanted in a partner, and not being afraid to go after it. I loved de Ney’s flawless poise vs. Mar’s backwoods mannerisms, and her raw power to his skill with a blade. She fears transforming into a bringer of plagues, while as he’s worried that he’s not Blue Blood enough for her. When they finally opened up their hearts to a relationship, it was like two puzzle pieces sliding home.
The Andrews’ skillfully wrapped-up this series’ story arc while still weaving a captivating story about slavers, political intrigue, and also tying up several loose ends secondary character wise. Jack and George play a vital role in this installment, and I loved how they were able to get some closure with regards to their father’s abandonment. Sophie gets a piece of Spider for fusing her mother, and even Rose, Declan & Kaldar had brief cameos. As much as I enjoyed the action, I actually liked Charlotte’s poised manipulations and tutelage of Lark more. It takes finesse to defeat a foe with a sword, but even more so with words, and clever artifice. However, not everyone got their HEA unfortunately, poor sweet Éléonore… And, was it just me, or were there sparks between George and Sophie? Potential spin-off?
I’ve now had the pleasure of listening to eleven audiobooks from Ilona Andrews and Renée Raudman, and let me tell you, the experience is in no danger of getting old. There are many reasons why this trio makes up the bulk of my Audible library including spellbinding performances, flawless pacing, and masterful tone. Raudman is the voice behind the Andrews’ written word, breathes life into all of their memorable characters, and makes listeners feel like they inhabit this author duo’s fictional worlds. If you’re still on the fence about audiobooks, I highly recommend that you give these a try, you won’t regret it! In fact, your house may end up cleaner than it has even been because you’ll find yourself actively seeking out excuses to read hands-fee.
STEEL’S EDGE was the ultimate epitome of go big or go home! My god, am I ever going to miss these characters!
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Owner, designer and main blogger behind Rabid Reads. Avid book reader, snowboard bunny, video gamer and Supernatural fan. I love all things paranormal, werewolves especially. Oh, and I’m Canadian, eh!
This audiobook pair (threesome??) is like crack to me. I’ll listen to anything they produce. I love the boys in this book and wish we got to see more of them.
Melanie Simmons recently posted…Burn For Me Audiobook by Ilona Andrews (review)
Fortunately for us junkies, this threesome cranks out TONS of audiobooks every year, so we’re never left high & dry.
Excellent, excellent review, Carmel! I’m so glad this was such a winner for you! I, too, love the Andrews. And Steel’s Edge is still sitting on my shelf in need of reading. I have enjoyed this series quite a bit. But one thing I think I’m going to love about this one is the older H/h. You’ve got me really stoked to read this one soon!!
Bookworm Brandee recently posted…**Blog Tour Early Review & Giveaway ~ Eight Days a Week ~ Amber L. Johnson**
I actually listened to this one back in August, and my review was typed up shortly after that, but I ended up saving this post for a rainy day. Now I need to decide whether to listen to CLEAN SWEEP or BURN FOR ME next. Tough call!
Clean Sweep has a George/Jack cameo. They are a bigger part of the new, not finished Sweep In Peace that you can read on the Andrews website.
Oooh, good to know! In that case, I’ll hit up the Innkeeper Chronicles first, I already have the audio on my iPhone anyway.
George and Jack had a cameo in Clean Sweep? Why am I not remembering that? Guess that means I need to go back and reread it right! I’ve been waiting to read Sweep in Peace when it’s all done…it’s hard for me to keep up when it’s in serial.
Traci recently posted…Coffee Shop Talks, #78
One of my GoodReads friends also mentioned this when she saw my review. I’ll be sure to pay extra attention!
I have the Andrews all over my TBR but haven’t managed to read any of their books yet 😐 I haven’t heard as much about thus series, but I love the sounds of this main character. Someone with that kind if power could be mind-blowingly scary. And I’m kind of loving that its a four book series – something I have a chance at finishing!
Berls recently posted…A Month of Giving Thanks Day 3
Oh my gosh! How have you NOT read anything by Andrews yet?? I’ve noticed that you’ve been on an audio kick lately, and Renée Raudman is a GREAT narrator, no more excuses!
Audiobooks are a great way to make a dent on that pesky TBR, isn’t it? 🙂 I know ever since I’ve discovered the convenience of audiobooks, I’ve been feeling pretty good about cascading pile.
Anyway, back to the book. I’ve only ever read one Ilona Andrews book but have yet to continue on with Kate Daniels. Maybe someday…
Joy (Joyousreads) recently posted…[453]: Life After Life by Kate Atkinson
If your reading time is limited, I’d definitely recommend going the KD route over this one, unless you prefer romance over action. I’m just about to dive into drafting my November new release posts, and audiobooks are the perfect companion for mindless blogging.
While you didn’t love all the others, I am glad you really loved the last installment and everything was wrapped up nicely.
kindlemom1 recently posted…Review: Killer Instinct by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
That’s not to say that the others weren’t good, because this is still Ilona Andrews we’re talking about, but this last installment was BETTER! 🙂
Great review Carmel! I really need to continue this series, and your review just gave me the motivation I needed it to move this to the top of list 🙂
Thanks! Great job!
Lupdilup recently posted…Burn For Me Audiobook by Ilona Andrews (review)
Everyone is reviewing BURN FOR ME, so you know me, I just have to be different. Hehe! No, but seriously, why are you not up to date on this series?? 😛
I’ve fallen so far behind in this series Carmel! I’m hardcore slacking when it comes to Ilona Andrews and that is just unacceptable! I really like the fact that this couple is a bit older and therefore more sure of what they want in a partner, I haven’t read too many books that feature a lead pair like that:) MUST READ!
There are only 4 installments, so you can’t be too far behind, because even if you’re at book 1, that’s not abysmal. LOL Older protagonists are so refreshing! Or, maybe it’s just cuz I’m not in my 20’s anymore… Either way. Get on it!
I am listening to the Kate Daniels series and recently finished Magic Burns, once I devour these and I will since Magic Strikes is already on my audible app..I will begin these. I am in love with this author team!
kimbacaffeinate recently posted…Make You Remember by Macy Beckett
Sounds like you have hours and hours of audiobook magic ahead of you, Kimberly! Lucky girl!
It is the simple things sometimes. Like characters actually being older and having real life experience before the story starts.
I am still behind on the Kate Daniels series though, so this one isn’t making my radar yet.
Nathan ( recently posted…Urban Fantasy Review: ‘Premonitions’ by Jamie Schultz
This author never fails to stand out from the crowd, and yes, do catch-up on the KD series first. Kate & Curran deserve your undivided attention!
And now I’m feeling the urge to reread this particular series! I didn’t remember this book until you mentioned the bringing on of plagues and then it clicked. Definitely loved this one — healers who can also hurt.
Mary recently posted…Back with a triplet of reviews!
I was surprised that Andrews went that route, however when you think about it it makes complete sense. At least you have read ’em unlike some of the above peeps. Bonus points for you!
I’ll be reading my first IAndrews today, Burn for Me, I’m excited to try their work, I’ve only heard great things about it. I didn’t know about this series, thanks for spotlighting it today. I will surely look it up.
Braine Talk Supe recently posted…Gush & Gripe: Kill The Tropes! + ARC Giveaway
Another Ilona Andrews newb, and you call yourself Talk Supe—WTH! j/k You’re going to beat me to the punch with BURN FOR ME though, so I look forward to finding out what you think of their writing & characters.
*groans* yet another Ilona Andrews series I haven’t started yet! And so I didn’t exactly read your review, but seeing your five-star-rating for the fourth book in the series is indeed very encouraging. I guess I’ll have to read all their books before RT in May next year, so that I know what I am talking about 😉
Thanks for keeping my TBR filled up, Carmel!
Lexxie recently posted…Review: Lord Wastrel – Donna Cummings
Ha! Yes, you’d better get on that because the clock is ticking, plus they are great fun in panels, definitely not to be missed.
I still have time, right? And at least, I’m almost caught up with Kate Daniels 😀 This series sounds great, though.
Lexxie recently posted…Review: The Viscount’s Christmas Temptation – Erica Ridley
The Kate Daniels series is the most important one, so at least you are on the right track.
i have teh series in paperback but i have not started it yet ( not sure why^^ afraid to love kate daniels too much perghaps) but i don(‘t think i have this installment in apperback though.. will have to researh
miki recently posted…Fabulous giveaway extended: enter the GGMMMU ( INT)
This series is in no danger of surpassing Kate, but if you love this author duo’s writing style, it’s a must read.
OMG! I was sure I have read this one, but I was reading your review and I couldn’t recall reading anything like it. So, I went to Goodreads to check and realized I haven’t read this book! What happened to me? I need to fix that “problem” ASAP… The good news is that I was waiting for the perfect book to listen to the Ilona Andrews and Renée Raudman Team… Now, I have found that book. 😉
BookaholicCat recently posted…Early Review: The Billion Dollar Player by Mandy Baxter
Installments fall between the cracks sometimes, it happens. At least you’ll soon be rectifying your oversight, and what a way to go—your first Renée Raudman listen! ENJOY!
Hi Carmel! I’m adding my name to the hat of Ilona Andrews newbies, having a lot of good intentions to read the Kate Daniels series but not quite having gotten around to it yet.
I hadn’t heard of this particular series from Ilona Andrews but I’m glad to hear that you seemed to enjoy it very much, particularly as they’re audiobook versions which can sometimes be hit or miss but in this case sound like they make for very compelling listening! The story sounds like it has a lot of intriguing elements, and I like that while everyone seems to be blogging about “Burn for Me” you’ve gone with an audiobook one 🙂
I’m kind of the black sheep of the blogosphere on this one, what with all of the buzz surrounding BURN FOR ME. Hehe! Listen to a sample, and hear for yourself, this trio can’t be beat in the audiobook world.
I wish there were more :/
blodeuedd recently posted…Horns – Joe Hill
Don’t we all! At least there’s no shortage of other titles available from the Andrews’.
I’ve only just started with Ilona and Reneé’s work, but yea, I will read/listen to this combo any time! I didn’t realize she did the Edge series. I think when I start this series, I’m going for audio!
Melissa (Books and Things) recently posted…Blog Tour: Redeemed by P. C. Cast and Kristin Cast with Goddess Gift Giveaway!
Raudman does all of their books in audio I think which is awesome because she’s super talented. I’m slowly getting caught-up on all things Ilona Andrews. 😀
This is one series from Andrewses I haven’t finished yet, Carmel. I think I’ll follow your example and go for audiobooks 🙂 Great review!
kara-karina recently posted…November Book Releases I’m Dying to Read!
Nice! As long as these books are on your someday pile, that’s all that matters. Can’t wait to find out your thoughts on the narrator!
I still need to read Fate’s Edge (which I have) and this one. Another great series by them. They can do wrong.
You’re halfway there, not too bad. Owning ’em is the first step. Hehe!
AHH! I can’t take it anymore. I have to read an Ilona Andrews book. I am starting on audio today Burn for Me. I am so excited to finally see what the fuss is about and I am glad that the narrator is terrific for all of her books. My goal is to start Kate Daniels on audio next year.
Heidi recently posted…Review:We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
I’m surprised that you held out this long, Heidi, but psyched that you’re finally caving. Welcome to the fan club!
Yet another series I have not started. I should start listening to audios, might help at times when I seem to be in a reading slump.
Kristina D recently posted…Art Book Review ~ Fairy Homes and Gardens
I always exhaust all options whenever I’m experiencing reading burn out. Audiobooks have gotten me through some tough times.
I didn’t realize from the description that it was part of a series. Her power sounds wicked! I prefer books where the characters have to out smart their enemies. I’ll have to remember this when I try an audio book next.
Molly Mortensen recently posted…NaNoWriMo & BookBlogWriMo
This is a series, but each installment revolves around a different paranormal couple. There is a bit of crossover, however you could probably read Steel’s Edge as a stand-alone if you really wanted to.
This series is on my WL, I think I have some of the books, but not all. It might be the perfect series for me to listen to on audio though. So glad you loved this!
Candace recently posted…Book Review: Another One Bites the Dust by Chris Marie Green
I have NEVER read an Ilona Andrews book, and I’m not about to start now. The voices in my head don’t sound nearly as good as Raudman’s. 😀
Ohhh I recently started the IAndrews Kate Daniels series and love it. Didn’t know about this one, or at least didn’t remember. Will make sure to add these to my TBR as well 🙂
They have to 5 different series now, this is the only one that’s complete, so you have plenty of options!
I still need to finish these. I loved the first couple. Man alive can those two write! Yay for it being awesome (though totally didn’t doubt it would be anything but lol)
anna (herding cats & burning soup) recently posted…Book Deals–FREE, 99CENTS, NEW RELEASES + how to help the herd!
I enjoyed all of the couples because they are so different, but Charlotte & Richard were definitely my fav.
This sounds like a perfect audiobook opportunity! I’ve read the first two in the series, but this sounds by far the best. What a great way to end the series with such an strong finale 🙂
kim { Book Swoon } recently posted…Young Adult Book Review: Compulsion by Martina Boone
You can’t go wrong with an audio that has Renée Raudman & Ilona Andrews’ name on it. You’ll see!
Yep, I listened to Raudman’s narration on Magic Bites and she was pretty great! I love it when authors (and author teams) keep the same narrators for all or most of their books. Easy to know right away that I’ll be getting quality.
Mogsy recently posted…#RRSciFiMonth: Koko Takes a Holiday by Kieran Shea
I agree! I hate it when the narrator of a series is constantly changing; it’s not as bad when each installment features a different character’s POV, but it sucks when you find one you like, and they go bye-bye.
I’m so ashame to say that I haven’t tried this series. I love Ilona Andrews and I haven’t read the series. It’s not normal, right? eally need to buy book 1 now.
Ha! I’m just getting to ’em now myself, so I can understand where you are coming from. As long as they are on your TBR… somewhere… all is forgiven.
Glad to hear that this one wrapped up nicely for you Carmel!It’s always nice when a finale can wrap everything up and leave no loose ends!
Lily recently posted…Addicted After All (Addicted #3):Review
This author team is known for their attention to detail, so I expected as much, but feeling satisfied is still a treat.
Oh c’mon! I’m never going to catch up on all of Ilona Andrews books. Well, it’s good to know this turned out so well for you.
Christy recently posted…Seventh Grave and No Body by Darynda Jones
They are not an easy pair to keep up with, that’s for sure. You’d need to dedicate a couple of months to just their books. LOL I’m not quite their yet either if it’s any consolation.
I am the same way with this series, liked all the books , but never fell in love. I stopped at book 2 but have all the books. Better pick them back up.
This series has more romance than the KD books so it depends what your preference is. I just love their world-building!
I still haven’t read anything by the Ilona Andrews due and the more reviews I see for any of their books the more I feel like I’m seriously missing out, so I think I better start catching up and soon!
Great review Carmel, you’ll turn me into an audiobook convert yet! 😉
Pili recently posted…Mark This Book Monday: My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Winter Romances edited by Stephanie Perkins!!!
You wouldn’t be the first blogger that I’ve gotten hooked on audiobooks. The most difficult part of deciding to give Ilona Andrews a try, is picking where to start. 😉