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Hidden Legacy #6.5
Beast Business
Augustine Montgomery is an Illusion Prime who owns a premier PI corporation and alters his appearance with magic. The people who have seen Augustine’s real face can be counted on the fingers of one hand. The people who witnessed the full extent of his power are dead. The illusion isn’t just the brand of his magic. It’s become his lifestyle.
Show as little as possible. Make them think that illusion is all you have. Your life depends on it.
Augustine lives by this creed. He’s cold, rational, and calculating. He doesn’t get emotionally involved. Then one day Diana Harrison walks into his office and asks for his help. Diana is a Prime, an animal mage who bonds with animals through her magic and prefers their company to humans. Something precious has been stolen from House Harrison. Something Diana must recover at all costs.
The two Houses are allied through a friendship pact. Assisting Diana is simply good business. And yet, there is something about her that disturbs the careful balance of Augustine’s inner world.
Neither of them is who they appear to be. Both would die to keep their secrets. But the enemy they face is more powerful than either had imagined, and saving the life that hangs in the balance will demand the ultimate price neither Augustine nor Diana ever anticipated to pay – complete honesty.
Show as little as possible. Make them think that illusion is all you have. Your life depends on it.
Augustine lives by this creed. He’s cold, rational, and calculating. He doesn’t get emotionally involved. Then one day Diana Harrison walks into his office and asks for his help. Diana is a Prime, an animal mage who bonds with animals through her magic and prefers their company to humans. Something precious has been stolen from House Harrison. Something Diana must recover at all costs.
The two Houses are allied through a friendship pact. Assisting Diana is simply good business. And yet, there is something about her that disturbs the careful balance of Augustine’s inner world.
Neither of them is who they appear to be. Both would die to keep their secrets. But the enemy they face is more powerful than either had imagined, and saving the life that hangs in the balance will demand the ultimate price neither Augustine nor Diana ever anticipated to pay – complete honesty.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2026
661 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Ilona Andrews
147 books33.5k followersIlona Andrews is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 30, 2026
No way this story ends here—I need more Augustine!!
Diana and Augustine together were perfection: her as the animal mage, him cool, controlled, and lethal. Honestly? Both were deadly ♡
This novella was extremely entertaining, as always, and delivered in every way. I loved seeing Arabella as part of the story and where her path might lead. She needs a little more time before carrying her own books, but I can already see it coming—and I’ll be first in line.
Diana and Augustine together were perfection: her as the animal mage, him cool, controlled, and lethal. Honestly? Both were deadly ♡
This novella was extremely entertaining, as always, and delivered in every way. I loved seeing Arabella as part of the story and where her path might lead. She needs a little more time before carrying her own books, but I can already see it coming—and I’ll be first in line.
January 30, 2026
I LOVED it!!! I will read it again tomorrow!
January 30, 2026
I really enjoyed this book and the actual story itself was excellent. As always, Ilona Andrews’ writing continues to be sharp, engaging, and easy to sink into. I loved getting more time with Diana, and a deeper dive on Augustine and his magic. Even though Diana wasn’t a new character to the series, she felt fresh here, and I genuinely enjoyed getting to know her more deeply.
That said, my biggest issue with this book is simply that it was too short. The ending felt abrupt and incomplete, and I finished it wanting significantly more time with these characters. The Diana and Augustine storyline had so much potential, and I couldn’t help feeling disappointed that we didn’t get to see it explored further.
I was also a bit confused by the inclusion of the blog stories in the book. I understand why it’s nice to have them preserved in print, but structurally they felt out of place. Personally, I would have preferred that space be used to expand the main narrative instead …especially given how quickly the core story wrapped up.
All that said, I still really enjoyed this book. The writing was strong, the characters were compelling, and the story itself was genuinely fun to read. I love this universe and this series, and I’ll happily take any spinoff content I can get. I just wish there had been more of it.
If you’re already a fan of the series, this is absolutely worth reading ….just be prepared to want more when it ends.
That said, my biggest issue with this book is simply that it was too short. The ending felt abrupt and incomplete, and I finished it wanting significantly more time with these characters. The Diana and Augustine storyline had so much potential, and I couldn’t help feeling disappointed that we didn’t get to see it explored further.
I was also a bit confused by the inclusion of the blog stories in the book. I understand why it’s nice to have them preserved in print, but structurally they felt out of place. Personally, I would have preferred that space be used to expand the main narrative instead …especially given how quickly the core story wrapped up.
All that said, I still really enjoyed this book. The writing was strong, the characters were compelling, and the story itself was genuinely fun to read. I love this universe and this series, and I’ll happily take any spinoff content I can get. I just wish there had been more of it.
If you’re already a fan of the series, this is absolutely worth reading ….just be prepared to want more when it ends.
January 31, 2026
I do not often rate novella’s five stars; however, I LOVED this book. We learn so much about Augustine and his magic in this book. We knew Cornelius and Matilda are special but we discover how much they outclass other animal mages in this book. We also learn more about the Harrison family and how their magic actually works. I wish the story was longer. I also wish Andrews will write more about Augustine and Diana. This is my all time favorite series and I missed getting new stories in this world. I miss the Baylor’s and want more stories about Nevada and Rogan, Catalina and Alessandro, Arabella, Bern and Runa, and Leon.
January 30, 2026
A deeper look into Augustine and Diana?! Sign me up! Animals and magic?! Yes, please! Arabella cameos?! Full speed ahead!
House Andrews does it again with so much packed into a 205 page story!
In true BDH fashion, the book was devoured in about 2 hours....and now I want more! There is so much information and so many intriguing things that need follow up!
Thank you to House Andrews for feeding us some Pan(ther)cakes! iykyk.
House Andrews does it again with so much packed into a 205 page story!
In true BDH fashion, the book was devoured in about 2 hours....and now I want more! There is so much information and so many intriguing things that need follow up!
Thank you to House Andrews for feeding us some Pan(ther)cakes! iykyk.
February 1, 2026
This was phenomenal all the way through. I will snap up the audiobook the minute it's released. I eagerly anticipate the GraphicAudio version as well.
RTC.
RTC.
February 1, 2026
This novella was almost cruel in that it was so short and I want so much more of the characters. The story is well written and I know it took a lot of work and I do appreciate it so much, but I want more and always will. Augustine has more to say and so does Diana. I cannot wait to learn more about the animal magic too. Someone stole something from House Harrison and Diana goes to Augustine for help. But as they work together the sparks between them cannot help but fly.
Want to read
January 31, 2026EXCUSE ME WHILE I SCREAM EXCITEDLY
January 31, 2026
5 STARS AND I NEED THE SEQUEL!!!
Ilona Andrews did it again. But, duh, it's so obvious they did it again because when they come back to the world of Hidden Legacy then I know they mean business.
I always like Augustine Montgomery, but I kinda like him more now when IA tell his story. As a reader, I only know and see him through Baylor sister's point of view. At first he seems like a jerk, cold, arrogant and aloof. He also the boss of Baylor PI agency before Nevada come into her power as a prime and Baylor become a House of its own. He is Connor Rogan's friend and in the end become a valuable ally to both House Baylor and House Rogan. But to finally see what he truly is and IA also reveal the way he look without his illusion magic are truly priceless. IA know how to deliver and left the BDH member to wanting MORE. How do I know that Augustine hide those delectable and yummy muscle behind his business-like appearance? Now, I want to read more Augustine in his combat suit and please more of him punching enemies here and there. I like that Augustine is different than Connor who have telekinetic ability since Augustine's magic mostly are about illusion, he relied on his combat and martial art. Although his illusion ability is not to be underestimated as well.
I also know that Augustine's significant other will be Diana Harrison, a head of House Harrison and also animal mage Prime. Back then, there were discussion that Augustine will be paired with Arabella and I agree with IA, that's will be icky. Augustine is practically much older than Arabella and he is family friend. If Arabella end up with Augustine, he will come as grooming her, god forbid! So, I really glad that IA write how Augustine and Diana's crossed path. I like that both parties feelings are mutual. Diana recognized Augustine while Augustine also kinda attracted to Diana. The opposite attracts trope work wonder. And if Augustine think that his magic did not compatible with Diana's animal magic, he must take note from his best friend, Connor. I mean, even Connor and Nevada's magic type kinda didn't compatible, they still have their HEA. I like that in Beast Business, reader get to know more about the animal mages. In Hidden Legacy novels, I only know the animal mage from Cornelius because Diana is just a minor characters. To read about her past, her relationship with Cornelius and her connection with animal make her also a character to be connected with.
IA is a master of tease and boy...Beast Business is a slow burn. With the emphasis of BURN. Like, the sexual tension is off the chart its left me wanting for me. There's no actual sex scene, both Augustine and Diana barely kiss. I don't even count the kiss near the end of the scene as KISSING!!! It's just a light kissing and I wish I know what Augustine feel about that kiss. Please give them a kiss, a REAL DEAL KISS, AHHHH! That's why I say that IA is a tease, lol. While the problems kinda resolved, but there's more to come for Augustine and Diana. I agree with a reader in the IA FB group that .
While Beast Business is Augustine and Diana's story, IA also put a novelette from Arabella's PoV. The timeline is before and after event when Augustine and Diana join forces to rescue Celeste's cub. I really like Arabella's voice. She's a hoot but also have her own doubt and problems as well. Nevada come as strong and capable, maybe because she is a firstborn daughter. Catalina might be unsure of herself when she become Head of House Baylor, but she finally find her own footing. Arabella have her own luxury because she's the youngest but she also strive to become like her older sisters. Her voice feel fresh maybe because she still in her early twenties and her problems is more like how to make people see and recognize her talent outside her metamorphosis ability. I like her new budding friendship with Tia Madero and also Augustine's sister. I can't wa*t to read Arabella's adventure in the future. Also, there's no hint of Arabella's possible love interest, so I like that if IA will finally write Arabella's books (maybe after Maggie, Innkeeper, Kate Daniels and so on), I believe they will never let me down.
I end up reading Beast Business twice because I can't get enough! Blame it to a certain Illusion Prime and the wild Animal Mage Prime that might be his worthy opponent in the love department. I will be lying if I said I don't need the sequel. Because, yes, sequel please. I need the closure, lel!
Ilona Andrews did it again. But, duh, it's so obvious they did it again because when they come back to the world of Hidden Legacy then I know they mean business.
I always like Augustine Montgomery, but I kinda like him more now when IA tell his story. As a reader, I only know and see him through Baylor sister's point of view. At first he seems like a jerk, cold, arrogant and aloof. He also the boss of Baylor PI agency before Nevada come into her power as a prime and Baylor become a House of its own. He is Connor Rogan's friend and in the end become a valuable ally to both House Baylor and House Rogan. But to finally see what he truly is and IA also reveal the way he look without his illusion magic are truly priceless. IA know how to deliver and left the BDH member to wanting MORE. How do I know that Augustine hide those delectable and yummy muscle behind his business-like appearance? Now, I want to read more Augustine in his combat suit and please more of him punching enemies here and there. I like that Augustine is different than Connor who have telekinetic ability since Augustine's magic mostly are about illusion, he relied on his combat and martial art. Although his illusion ability is not to be underestimated as well.
I also know that Augustine's significant other will be Diana Harrison, a head of House Harrison and also animal mage Prime. Back then, there were discussion that Augustine will be paired with Arabella and I agree with IA, that's will be icky. Augustine is practically much older than Arabella and he is family friend. If Arabella end up with Augustine, he will come as grooming her, god forbid! So, I really glad that IA write how Augustine and Diana's crossed path. I like that both parties feelings are mutual. Diana recognized Augustine while Augustine also kinda attracted to Diana. The opposite attracts trope work wonder. And if Augustine think that his magic did not compatible with Diana's animal magic, he must take note from his best friend, Connor. I mean, even Connor and Nevada's magic type kinda didn't compatible, they still have their HEA. I like that in Beast Business, reader get to know more about the animal mages. In Hidden Legacy novels, I only know the animal mage from Cornelius because Diana is just a minor characters. To read about her past, her relationship with Cornelius and her connection with animal make her also a character to be connected with.
IA is a master of tease and boy...Beast Business is a slow burn. With the emphasis of BURN. Like, the sexual tension is off the chart its left me wanting for me. There's no actual sex scene, both Augustine and Diana barely kiss. I don't even count the kiss near the end of the scene as KISSING!!! It's just a light kissing and I wish I know what Augustine feel about that kiss. Please give them a kiss, a REAL DEAL KISS, AHHHH! That's why I say that IA is a tease, lol. While the problems kinda resolved, but there's more to come for Augustine and Diana. I agree with a reader in the IA FB group that .
While Beast Business is Augustine and Diana's story, IA also put a novelette from Arabella's PoV. The timeline is before and after event when Augustine and Diana join forces to rescue Celeste's cub. I really like Arabella's voice. She's a hoot but also have her own doubt and problems as well. Nevada come as strong and capable, maybe because she is a firstborn daughter. Catalina might be unsure of herself when she become Head of House Baylor, but she finally find her own footing. Arabella have her own luxury because she's the youngest but she also strive to become like her older sisters. Her voice feel fresh maybe because she still in her early twenties and her problems is more like how to make people see and recognize her talent outside her metamorphosis ability. I like her new budding friendship with Tia Madero and also Augustine's sister. I can't wa*t to read Arabella's adventure in the future. Also, there's no hint of Arabella's possible love interest, so I like that if IA will finally write Arabella's books (maybe after Maggie, Innkeeper, Kate Daniels and so on), I believe they will never let me down.
I end up reading Beast Business twice because I can't get enough! Blame it to a certain Illusion Prime and the wild Animal Mage Prime that might be his worthy opponent in the love department. I will be lying if I said I don't need the sequel. Because, yes, sequel please. I need the closure, lel!
January 31, 2026
Keeping secrets from the elite of Houston is, so often, a futile endeavor. The product of a recent and revolutionary innovation has been stolen — and the clock is ticking! Will Diana Harrison and Augustine Montgomery be in time to stop a truly warped individual?
Beast Business is an exciting addition to the world of Hidden Legacy and manages to remain familiar, bringing back beloved characters, while expanding the lore and reinforcing the existing structure. Diana and Augustine, in some odd ways, are well-matched. They were, arguably, both human shells at one point — with Cornelius and Matilda pulling Diana back from the brink while Augustine’s interactions with Mad Rogan and House Baylor help him see the error of his ways. Now, the tunnel vision is gone, and they have even more to fight for.
This novella also ties up a loose end from the first three-story arc quite tidily, while broadening both the illusion and animal mage mythos in unexpected ways. It pays to assume that a Prime is always hiding something.
I’m not typically a fan of having a story divided into two distinct sections, especially when it messes up the timeline. I don’t like it here, either, but acknowledge it as a necessary evil; there are really two separate stories included, and combining them to keep the timeline intact would be detrimental to both. Still, I’m like Bern — I like things to be chronological.
One thing I adore in House Andrews’ writing is how old characters — or relatives of old characters — can reappear in new roles. Humans are a mix of good and bad; when fiction reflects that innate complexity, it’s just delicious.
Beast Business is a treasure, sure to delight fans of the Hidden Legacy series, although I would advise against reading the books out of order. It has gripping tension, the insane action sequences that are a hallmark of House Andrews, a very special kitty, and humor — Arabella kills me! I didn’t want to get off this ride.
Beast Business is an exciting addition to the world of Hidden Legacy and manages to remain familiar, bringing back beloved characters, while expanding the lore and reinforcing the existing structure. Diana and Augustine, in some odd ways, are well-matched. They were, arguably, both human shells at one point — with Cornelius and Matilda pulling Diana back from the brink while Augustine’s interactions with Mad Rogan and House Baylor help him see the error of his ways. Now, the tunnel vision is gone, and they have even more to fight for.
This novella also ties up a loose end from the first three-story arc quite tidily, while broadening both the illusion and animal mage mythos in unexpected ways. It pays to assume that a Prime is always hiding something.
I’m not typically a fan of having a story divided into two distinct sections, especially when it messes up the timeline. I don’t like it here, either, but acknowledge it as a necessary evil; there are really two separate stories included, and combining them to keep the timeline intact would be detrimental to both. Still, I’m like Bern — I like things to be chronological.
One thing I adore in House Andrews’ writing is how old characters — or relatives of old characters — can reappear in new roles. Humans are a mix of good and bad; when fiction reflects that innate complexity, it’s just delicious.
Beast Business is a treasure, sure to delight fans of the Hidden Legacy series, although I would advise against reading the books out of order. It has gripping tension, the insane action sequences that are a hallmark of House Andrews, a very special kitty, and humor — Arabella kills me! I didn’t want to get off this ride.
January 30, 2026
Just love learning more about Diana and Augustine’s magic. Diana’s magic was amazing and went far beyond what I expected.
Now I’m wondering what their children’s magic would be like. I know they have not got to that point but I still want to know.
Now I’m wondering what their children’s magic would be like. I know they have not got to that point but I still want to know.
January 31, 2026
I can’t quite whole heartedly give this a 5 even though that is my IA standard. This was a good novella! I’m just not sure it was what I expected. I love the world though & always happy to be back with hidden legacy
January 31, 2026
Excellent. Thank you Ilona Andrews ;)
January 31, 2026
2026 digital
January 31, 2026
A Thrilling, Character‑Driven Triumph
Beast Business is another absolute delight from Ilona Andrews, the powerhouse husband-and-wife duo who never miss when it comes to sharp worldbuilding, irresistible characters, and that signature blend of humor and heart. This installment feels like slipping back into a world that’s equal parts chaotic, clever, and wildly entertaining, and I devoured every page.
The Andrews team excels at crafting characters who feel instantly alive, messy, capable, funny, and layered, and Beast Business gives them all room to shine. The banter is crisp, the emotional beats land beautifully, and the plot moves with that addictive momentum that keeps you saying “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
What impressed me most was how confidently the story expands its world without ever losing its intimacy. Every new thread feels purposeful, every relationship deepens, and every twist hints at even bigger things on the horizon. It’s the kind of book that leaves you grinning at the last page and already contemplating whatever comes next.
I’m genuinely excited to see where all these characters will lead us in future installments. If this is the direction the series is heading, we’re in for an incredible ride.
Beast Business is another absolute delight from Ilona Andrews, the powerhouse husband-and-wife duo who never miss when it comes to sharp worldbuilding, irresistible characters, and that signature blend of humor and heart. This installment feels like slipping back into a world that’s equal parts chaotic, clever, and wildly entertaining, and I devoured every page.
The Andrews team excels at crafting characters who feel instantly alive, messy, capable, funny, and layered, and Beast Business gives them all room to shine. The banter is crisp, the emotional beats land beautifully, and the plot moves with that addictive momentum that keeps you saying “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s 2 a.m.
What impressed me most was how confidently the story expands its world without ever losing its intimacy. Every new thread feels purposeful, every relationship deepens, and every twist hints at even bigger things on the horizon. It’s the kind of book that leaves you grinning at the last page and already contemplating whatever comes next.
I’m genuinely excited to see where all these characters will lead us in future installments. If this is the direction the series is heading, we’re in for an incredible ride.
January 30, 2026
A trip back into the Hidden Legacy World
When animal mage Diana Harrison comes to Illusion Prime Augustine Montgomery for help, they find themselves in a race against time to rescue Diana's special family member.
This also features a short with Arabella Baylor, plus a couple of extra shorts previously published in the authors' blog.
If you're a fan of the Hidden Legacy world, this one gives us a great deal of insight into both Animal Mages and Illusion Images, plus it stars two of our favourite important side characters from the two trilogies.
It's a quick read, and it was an enjoyable trip back into the Hidden Legacy world, which I admit is one of my favourite urban fantasy places!
If you've never read the Hidden Legacy series, you can read the first story in this book as a taster, although it is far better to have read the two trilogies first.
A must for members of the Book Devouring Horde, and urban/contemporary fans too.
When animal mage Diana Harrison comes to Illusion Prime Augustine Montgomery for help, they find themselves in a race against time to rescue Diana's special family member.
This also features a short with Arabella Baylor, plus a couple of extra shorts previously published in the authors' blog.
If you're a fan of the Hidden Legacy world, this one gives us a great deal of insight into both Animal Mages and Illusion Images, plus it stars two of our favourite important side characters from the two trilogies.
It's a quick read, and it was an enjoyable trip back into the Hidden Legacy world, which I admit is one of my favourite urban fantasy places!
If you've never read the Hidden Legacy series, you can read the first story in this book as a taster, although it is far better to have read the two trilogies first.
A must for members of the Book Devouring Horde, and urban/contemporary fans too.
January 30, 2026
Well, this landed this morning and I absolutely inhaled it. Too short! Diana the Huntress felt a little surprising and then perfectly reasonable. Love Augustine rationalizing the partnership based on, ‘well, I really need to know more about animal mages for my House protection’…lol, yeah right, Augustine.
We find out so much about illusion and animal magic here. Love how the authors weave that into the rescue operation. And Arabella’s stories included here were just a perfect counterpoint to the more adult adventures. I do hope we get her novels eventually. She is assembling her team-all armed with social media and cute but deadly pets😂 There is a short Matilda story at the end as well.
Will also take more on Augustine and Diana-or Panthercakes as the ship name has become known. 😉
Fantastic way to start the weekend!
We find out so much about illusion and animal magic here. Love how the authors weave that into the rescue operation. And Arabella’s stories included here were just a perfect counterpoint to the more adult adventures. I do hope we get her novels eventually. She is assembling her team-all armed with social media and cute but deadly pets😂 There is a short Matilda story at the end as well.
Will also take more on Augustine and Diana-or Panthercakes as the ship name has become known. 😉
Fantastic way to start the weekend!
January 30, 2026
Romance and Besties
I did not expect to like this novella so much. I was excited about Diana and Augustine. This book proved they are an excellent match, and more I want to see their courtship. I loved a peak into Arabella and her new friendship with Tia. Every girl needs that kind of friendship, and it look forward to Arabellas trilogy and hope Tia makes many appearances where she judges if ML is good enough for the youngest Baylor. I also adore Arabella and Matlidas relationship. Poor Diana, all that work to keep things quiet. I hope we get another Augustine and Diana novella at some point. Or one following Matlida where her hopefully Aunt/ Uncle make appearances.
I did not expect to like this novella so much. I was excited about Diana and Augustine. This book proved they are an excellent match, and more I want to see their courtship. I loved a peak into Arabella and her new friendship with Tia. Every girl needs that kind of friendship, and it look forward to Arabellas trilogy and hope Tia makes many appearances where she judges if ML is good enough for the youngest Baylor. I also adore Arabella and Matlidas relationship. Poor Diana, all that work to keep things quiet. I hope we get another Augustine and Diana novella at some point. Or one following Matlida where her hopefully Aunt/ Uncle make appearances.
January 30, 2026
Great story
Augustine and Diana make a great team and are yet another example of Ilona Andrews being incapable of writing shallow or two dimensional characters. Both of them started as side characters. Augustine rose in prominence first because of his connections to Nevada and Connor, but, of course, it's way more complex than that. Diana was a sort of enigmatic peripheral character who was mentioned occasionally but got very little actual page time. Interestingly, their story clears up some loose threads from the very first story arc. Complex. I can't wait for more!
Augustine and Diana make a great team and are yet another example of Ilona Andrews being incapable of writing shallow or two dimensional characters. Both of them started as side characters. Augustine rose in prominence first because of his connections to Nevada and Connor, but, of course, it's way more complex than that. Diana was a sort of enigmatic peripheral character who was mentioned occasionally but got very little actual page time. Interestingly, their story clears up some loose threads from the very first story arc. Complex. I can't wait for more!
January 31, 2026
I love Augustine and Diana! I hope that we get more from them while we’re waiting for Arabella to be old enough for her books. There’s a lot of her in this one, but she’s still pretty young.
I also wish the bonus content was labeled with where it takes place in the series. Without looking anything up, I think the first Arabella scene is at the beginning of Sapphire Flames, the second is at the end of Emerald Blaze and Matilda’s scene is after Ruby Fever. The Inn Talks are maybe 5 years after Beast Business.
I also wish the bonus content was labeled with where it takes place in the series. Without looking anything up, I think the first Arabella scene is at the beginning of Sapphire Flames, the second is at the end of Emerald Blaze and Matilda’s scene is after Ruby Fever. The Inn Talks are maybe 5 years after Beast Business.
January 31, 2026
Don’t you just love it when an author opens the wardrobe door back to your farourite world?
Beast business was such a great novella. Peeking behind the illusion and finally getting a little taste of the real Augustine was captivating and what you learn about animal mages… so good.
I just wish there was more of it… give me an entire month’s vacation rather than a weekend away!
Well played House Andrews
Beast business was such a great novella. Peeking behind the illusion and finally getting a little taste of the real Augustine was captivating and what you learn about animal mages… so good.
I just wish there was more of it… give me an entire month’s vacation rather than a weekend away!
Well played House Andrews
January 30, 2026
This was of course an auto-buy for me as a HUGE Hidden Legacy fan(atic). Being inside Augustine’s head was so interesting, and that’s not even mentioning all of the lore drops regarding the different magics (my favorite parts!). Of course I wish it was longer, but I would wish that if it were 200 or 400 pages long lol. I genuinely cannot wait for the next installment. Arabella is of course a badass in every way possible.
January 30, 2026
A new novella in the Hidden Legacy series. Hooray! I thoroughly enjoyed this, although had trouble figuring out what was happening in a few of the fight scenes. It's been so long since I read anything in this series, this I'm still a bit fuzzy as to how much we've previously been introduced to the two main characters: Augustine of House Montgomery and Diana of House Harrison.
For me probably the highlight was getting to see Arabella again (of House Baylor and little Matilda.
For me probably the highlight was getting to see Arabella again (of House Baylor and little Matilda.
January 31, 2026
Ilona Andrews never misses!!!!! I'm so thrilled that they took a break from writing their next massive big break to give us this special treat in the Hidden Legacy world. SO much thrilling backstory for Augustine and Diana's unique brands of magic, and an excellent set up to a future Arabella series if they decide to keep going in that direction...she is an underrated favorite and I really hope she gets her moment to shine. I loved every bit of this.
January 30, 2026
This was so lovely and intriguing: the plot was a great mix of mystery, romance, and awesomeness; I loved learning how both Illusion and Animal mages' magic work and the dive into the characters of both Diana and Augustine was awesome, plus, the Arabaella cameo was badass. Also very appreciated were the extra bits about her character, making a perfect launch ramp for her future trilogy.
January 31, 2026
4.5 stars.
I gobbled this novella up all in one bite. I’ve missed the Hidden Legacy world and this pairing was just awesome. I’m trying very hard to be grateful, grateful, grateful and not wonder when the MCs will get their full book/series. 🥹
Plus the Arabella shorts all in one place? She’s so adorable. Tia too. I’m grateful, grateful, grateful…
I gobbled this novella up all in one bite. I’ve missed the Hidden Legacy world and this pairing was just awesome. I’m trying very hard to be grateful, grateful, grateful and not wonder when the MCs will get their full book/series. 🥹
Plus the Arabella shorts all in one place? She’s so adorable. Tia too. I’m grateful, grateful, grateful…
January 30, 2026
HOW ARE YOU GOING TO END IT LIKE THAT?!
January 31, 2026
Incredible Cornelius lore drop. Top tier.
January 31, 2026
Beast Business only - 4.5/5.0. Great novella. Here’s hoping that the series will continue, and that the Augustine and Diana romance will come to a more satisfactory conclusion.
Currently reading
January 31, 2026Beast Business Extras:
Beast Business from Arabella's POV
A Misunderstanding
The Cool Aunt
Marty
the FrInnterviews of Augustine and Arabella.
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