Ilona Andrews: Magic Strikes

Hi everyone

Magic Strikes is the third full-length novel in the Kate Daniels series by Ilona Andrews. Depending on the time I have left this year, I might squeeze in one or two of the Kate Daniels short stories. 😉
I read this one on my e-reader.

"When magic strikes and Atlanta goes to pieces, it’s a job for Kate Daniels…
Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that’s saying a lot.
But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games—an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament—she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community…"

This book was so much fun! Seriously, I couldn’t put it down. I even stayed up way too late reading it after finishing my December and 2025 wrap-ups and my Favorites blog post (those are coming soon, by the way!). The story is just that addicting.

The Kate Daniels series just keeps getting better. 
The action is relentless, the worldbuilding is rich, and the characters are just so darn likable. Kate is still my favorite; brave, tough, sarcastic, and fiercely loyal.
Her dynamic with Curran is a highlight, and I love that their slow-burn romance isn’t full off flowery prose, over-the-top declarations, swooning, daydreaming, drooling, ... Instead, it’s grounded in real emotions; fears, hurt, anger, and heartbreak; which makes their relationship feel authentic. 
In the earlier books, some characters felt a bit shallow, but here, they really start to shine and feel like real people.
The Midnight Games were such a cool addition to the story. The action scenes are fast-paced and brutal, but they never feel gratuitous. The action never lest up, it's one thing after another with barely a moment to catch your breath. 
What I love most about this series is how well-balanced it is; there’s humor, love, action and high stakes, all wrapped up in a world where magic and technology clash. Plus, the family/friendship vibes with Kate’s few friends (and her growing bond with the Pack) just make it all the more satisfying.
I also really liked the introduction of monsters from different religions and cultures. It was a breath of fresh air.

Have you read Magic Strikes or any of the Kate Daniels books? What did you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena