Magic Breaks by Ilona Andrews
Narrator: Renée Raudman
Series: Kate Daniels #7
Published by Recorded Books
Published on: July 29, 2014
Genres: Urban Fantasy
Length: 16 hrs & 23 mins
Format: Audiobook
Source: Purchased
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No matter how much the paranormal politics of Atlanta change, one thing always remains the same: if there’s trouble, Kate Daniels will be in the middle of it…
As the mate of the Beast Lord, Curran, former mercenary Kate Daniels has more responsibilities than it seems possible to juggle. Not only is she still struggling to keep her investigative business afloat, she must now deal with the affairs of the pack, including preparing her people for attack from Roland, a cruel ancient being with god-like powers. Since Kate’s connection to Roland has come out into the open, no one is safe—especially those closest to Kate.
As Roland’s long shadow looms ever nearer, Kate is called to attend the Conclave, a gathering of the leaders from the various supernatural factions in Atlanta. When one of the Masters of the Dead is found murdered there, apparently at the hands of a shapeshifter, Kate is given only twenty-four hours to hunt down the killer. And this time, if she fails, she’ll find herself embroiled in a war which could destroy everything she holds dear…
**Includes the bonus Kate Daniels story Magic Tests**
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*** Review may contain spoilers for previous installments in the series. ***
Whenever I finish a truly amazing book I’m often tempted to write a one sentence review because words fail me, and the only thing that potential readers really need to know is READ THIS. And, never has that urge been as strong as in the case of MAGIC BREAKS. This novel wraps up one of the greatest Urban Fantasy story arcs that has ever been penned, and that’s not even the best part, because even though KATE DANIELS’ lifelong journey has reached its culmination, the best is still to come. In this installment, characters die, power shifts, and a new path is forged—epic is the only term that comes to mind, and even then, it still falls short.
It was a good thing that MAGIC BREAKS came with a disclaimer because otherwise I think this novel would have caused mass panic among readers (me included). I loved the character recap; it really helped to set the stage for this story, and ensured that everyone was on the same page regardless of whether you re-read all of the installments prior to this one, or haven’t visited Andrews’ universe since last July when MAGIC RISES hit shelves. Hugh d’Ambray demonstrates why he earned the title of Roland’s Warlord when he sets his ingenious scheme in motion to cause an all-out war between the Pack and the People. Kate’s got some pretty big shoes to fill with Curran away on business, and although I did find myself missing the Beast Lord, the wait was worth it when he finally made his spectacular entrance.
Pretty much all of this series’ characters came out to play which was awesome, and fitting seeing how everything comes to a head in this book. Kate and Curran’s interactions were perfect, and I loved learning more about Ghastek. And, even though the action was at the forefront of this story, there’s still a good dose of romance, and—believe it or not—cuteness thanks to Cuddles, the mammoth donkey, and an adorable bunnycat. A long time character dies, however I think that I was actually more upset over what happened to Slayer, but again it was all part of the Andrews’ master plan. The authors did a fabulous job of tying up loose ends while still continuing to add new mythology and world-building to the mix. Roland was positively magnificent, and I was thrilled that his and Kate’s first meeting exceeded my sky high expectations after a grueling six installment long build-up.
I’ve been hooked on Renée Raudman’s narration of this series since the very beginning, but never have I hung on her every word quite like I did while listening to this audiobook. Towards the end, I think that I actually forgot to breathe a time or two. The conclusion was jaw droppingly wonderful, and her suspenseful delivery made time stand still. I loved everything about her performance, from Curran’s raspy baritone, to Kate’s sarcastic wit, and Julie’s bonus short story at the end was the cherry on top.
Never has a series been more about the journey than the actual destination, and the evolution that Ilona & Gordon’s characters have undergone is staggering. Urban Fantasy doesn’t get any better than MAGIC BREAKS—READ THIS.
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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!
Great review! Glad you loved it as much as I did!!
Thanks! Now, I can FINALLY read your review. Hehe
I really appreciated the recap by Barabas, not because I needed the reminder, but because they didn’t have to burden the story itself with endless explanations. It can be awfully damaging sometimes.
Like you, I always liked Ghastek and enjoyed learning more about him. He is a great character.
I can’t wait for more from this world. 🙂 It’s my favorite after all.
That’s a good point; the recap made it easier for the authors to focus on story telling instead of having to refresh readers’ memories throughout the book. And, the Ghastek bits were AWESOME!
You wrapped it up perfectly. “Urban Fantasy doesn’t get any better than MAGIC BREAKS” This series is like UF perfection! It’s so hard to write a review for any of Andrew’s books because how much can we really gush over one book? I feel so warm inside when people love this series as much as I do.
Jennifer Bielman recently posted…Review: Salvage by Alexandra Duncan
This series has become the bar by which I measure all Urban Fantasy books. It truly is the best of the best!
I agree. This was the best in this series. The FEELS. I did enjoy learning about Ghastek and Curran putting him in his place without even touching him. Can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.
Melanie Simmons recently posted…Ugly Love Audiobook by Colleen Hoover review
So many FEELS!! I still haven’t fully recovered yet even though I finished the audio last week.
I’m glad to hear of the quality narration. I bought the first few books of this series when Kindle had an ebook sale on them a few weeks ago, and of course if I see a good audiobook bundle deal going with it, IMMA GONNA GET IT. So, I’m mostly likely going to be tackling the first book in audio format, so it’s nice to know the reader will be good going in!
Mogsy recently posted…Book Review: The King of Thorns by Mark Lawrence
Renée Raudman is spectacular; I will never read a Kate Daniels book again!
Wow great review! I really need to try out an Ilona Andrews books sometime 🙂 Maybe even on audio!!
Chene Sterckx recently posted…August MWYA Buzz
It took me a full week to review this one. You should definitely give Kate Daniels a go ASAP!
Wow. Just wow, Carmel. I haven’t gotten to this one yet but boy I can’t wait to now. Well, I was already anxious…it’s Kate & Curran after all. 😉 I’m glad it was such an ‘epic’ experience for you. I hope I get to read it soon. And when I’m done, I may listen to the series. 🙂
This audio was a pre-order for me, then I took the next 2 days off to listen to it. Yeeah, I’m a serious fan girl. LOL
Excellent Carmel!! I can feel your emotions while you were writing this, and I love that you loved this as much as I did.
I second everything you said, I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Great job!
Lupdilup recently posted…Ugly Love Audiobook by Colleen Hoover review
Thanks, Loupe! I think I had just as much trouble writing my review as you did, so YAY for us finally finding the right words! Hehe 😀
Oh, I love this series. I didn’t audiobook it but this story…so good. Loved Cuddles and I’m thinking I need a bunnycat. *ponders how allergic I would be to it*
Mary recently posted…Do it in 140: Tweet-short Book Reviews (2)
I HATE cats, but even *I* want a bunnycat. LOL
Wonderful review, Carmel! What can I say other than this sounds EPIC, and I need to catch up. I’m excited to see so many characters appear in this one as well. Kate and Curran … they make my heart go pitter-patter. I can’t wait to step back into this world.:)!
kim { Book Swoon } recently posted…Young Adult Book Review: White Hot Kiss by Jennifer L. Armentrout
You can’t go wrong with Kate & Curran! And, yeah, I’m still going with EPIC. 😀
LOL you so made me snort. I finished one the other day and had that exact thought! Can’t I just write a one sentence review?! Maybe with a couple colorful words added in lol
I really need to get this one soon. I might have to for a car ride tomorrow. Hmmms!
anna (herding cats & burning soup) recently posted…Blogger to Author (1)–That first meet!
Whether it’s one sentence or 10 pages, no words do this audio justice.
I so need to get caught up on this series!
kindlemom1 recently posted…Blog Tour and Book Review: Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover
YES YOU DO!
I have been eyeing this series since 2009 and still haven’t dived in. Between you and Maja, though, I am convinced. I will be doing some binge listening to this series on audio this Fall and Winter and I can’t wait!
Heidi recently posted…Friday Forecast August 10th-16th
Less eyeing, and more reading or listening! This series is totally binge-worthy!
I want to do that too sometimes, just yell ‘GO READ THIS NOW!”
I just read Hot Listen’s review earlier this week and she loved it too. I’ve had these books on my TBR since before I started blogging. Need to check out the audios 🙂
Nereyda recently posted…Audiobook Review: Harder by Robin York!
Hot Listens and I started listening to this the very same day, but of course she’s the queen of audiobooks, so she finished AND posted her review way before me. FAIL. 😉
The journey with the characters and coming out to play sounds like it made a great addition to this series
brandileigh2003 recently posted…DNF: The Bridge from Me to You by Lisa Schroeder
And, what a journey it has been! I can’t recommend this series enough!
I totally just skimmed your review because I haven’t listened to this one yet but it is next up on my audio list. I can’t wait!!! I happened to glimpse that you mentioned that it is epic and words fail you. Wow! I believe I will start listening to this one tonight. I’m even more excited now.
Ginny recently posted…Book Review: Secrets That Kill: A Shelby Nichols Adventure (Shelby Nichols Adventures Book 4)
I think it’s safe to say that you will NOT be disappointed by this audiobook!
Obviously, this is one of the series I haven’t even started yet. I’m afraid I have to skim over your review because of spoilers. I do get from what little I’ve read that you really loved this one. You know you’ve read a wonderful book when words fail you. I am also happy that the audiobook really added to the reading experience. Forgetting to breathe is always a sign of an epic novel. Haha. I will definitely start with this series soon. I really can’t miss out on this.
Sarah recently posted…Review: Storm Siren by Mary Weber
At one point I was washing the dishes, and I completely lost a few minutes—forgot where I was, what I was doing, all I could do was listen.
Oh yes this one was good! I had a really great time with it and was surprised by some of the turns but I always have a good time with this series. So curious for more! Great review!
When does the next book come out?? 😉
I LOVED this book and LOVE this series. I enjoyed reading it, but I was so apprehensive about what would happen, that I struggled to relax and enjoy. I am looking forward to listening to the audio – so I can do just that… enjoy the story w/out worry!!
Thanks for the review!
Jen Twimom recently posted…Quickie Review: Calla Lily by Vivian Winslow
This book’s totally re-readable, so it’s all good. I’m thrilled that you loved it too; I’ll have to check-out your review to compare notes.
Whoop! I’m glad you enjoyed, Carmel! It’s always good when characters are used wisely and everyone has a purpose and aren’t there just being mentioned, A long time character dies? Aw. That must have been upsetting to a lot of the readers (though you were more upset by something else, I see.) I’m so glad you loved it. I know that Jess has big love for this series and I can’t wait to try it now that I know that you’re both such huge fans 🙂
Siiri @ Little Pieces of Imagination
Yeah, I hate it when authors include characters just for the heck of it, they need to be important to the story too IMO. Jessica & I are Team Andrews all the way!!
I just barely skimmed your review because I haven’t read these yet. I did read two books (I think two, maybe only one) of the spin off series and really liked it. I also have several books in this series so I should really read them soon!
Candace recently posted…Saturday Situation: Link Up Your Bookish Posts & Giveaways!
All of Andrews’ series are good, but this one is my absolute FAVOURITE!
I haven’t read the previous books in this series so I’m going to read your review later as one of these days I’ll probably cave in and read this. But I’m so happy you loved it. 🙂
Tanja recently posted…City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
I try to avoid spoilers as much as possible, but when you are reviewing the 7th installment it’s tough. Don’t forget to come back when you’re finally caught-up, then we can compare notes! 🙂
OMG.NEED. Right now
blodeuedd recently posted…#Bookblogwalkers Check-in /UF Review: In a fix – Linda Grimes
YES!!! You better be one-clicking as I type this comment.
Hell, yeah I will read this! I know enough that Jessica is super crazy about this series and the author 😀 I don’t have her books yet, but I will have them soon enough to binge read this awesome series. I heard the romance eventually is sizzling as it’s the really awesome, slow-burn type.
Faye recently posted…Random Things in Motion #7: Would you be selfish… in a post-apocalyptic situation?
I’ll add ‘bug Faye until she reads the KD series’ to my to-do list. 😛
I’m impatiently waiting for my library hold to come in-cannot wait to read this book!
Finley Jayne recently posted…New Feature {Baking with Finley Jayne} Beautiful Blueberries!
You are far more patient than I! I don’t splurge often, but this series is worth it!
I only read the first paragraph since I’m not caught up on this series yet (have no clue why!!) but it was enough to get me PUMPED. I’ve been seeing a lot of really positive reviews for Magic Breaks around – but I mean really, it’s Kate Daniels. Even the worst books in the series are still better than most UF! So happy to hear that you’re still loving the series even after book 7. That’s the mark of a good author duo right there!
Danya recently posted…Review: Skinwalker by Faith Hunter
There aren’t very many series that continue to get better with each new installment, especially after 7 books. So, that pretty much says it all IMO. 🙂