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Maggie MacKay, Magical Tracker #10
Of Mice and MacKays
Maggie and Killian have to lie low now that the queen knows Killian is alive. But an escape to wine country reveals a nest of vampires drunk on power and a Medusa who would like to see anyone who opposes Mad King Cole stoned... as in, transformed into stone marble statues. The natural balance is out of whack and as they say: If Mother Nature ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. A whole lot of shaking is about to go on...
WARNING: This book contains cussing, brawling, and unladylike behavior. Proceed with caution.
WARNING: This book contains cussing, brawling, and unladylike behavior. Proceed with caution.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2018
76 people are currently reading
132 people want to read
About the author
Kate Danley
55 books595 followersKate Danley began her writing career as an indie author in 2010. Since then, her books have been published by 47North, she spent five weeks on the USA Today bestseller list, and she has been honored with various awards, including the Garcia Award for Best Fiction Book of the Year (The Woodcutter), McDougall Previews Award for Best Fantasy Book of the Year (Queen Mab), Best of 2014 by Suspense Magazine (M&K Tracking), and the 2017 Utopia Award for Best Anthology of the Year (Once Upon A Kiss - "Galatea & Pygmalion"). Her play Building Madness won the prestigious Panowski Playwriting Award and her play Bureaucrazy was a semi-finalist for the O'Neill National Playwrights Conference. Her works have been produced in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Canada, and the UK. She has over 300+ film, television, and theatre credits to her name, and specializes in sketch, improv, and Shakespeare. She wrote sketch for a weekly show in Hollywood and has performed her original stand-up at various clubs in LA. She learned on-camera puppetry from the man who played Mr. Snuffleupagus and performed the head of a 20-foot dinosaur on an NBC pilot. She lost on Hollywood Squares.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 16, 2018
I Hate This Book
If I was not reading this novel on a digital device I would have thrown it against the wall a dozen times then torn it to pieces. I have just finished the entire Maggie series in a couple weeks and have increasingly felt manipulated and my intelligence insulted. There are only so many times you can make your characters be stupid for the sake of plot or for laughs before both the characters and the plots lose all credibility. And like it or not, as much as the kick-ass ratio is higher in urban fantasy than paranormal romance, it is still in most cases a subgenre of romance. So after eight novels of hinting yes Maggie and Killian will get together after Maggie gets the stick out of her ass, Danley has novel nine repeat that Maggie's psychic Mom, who no one has ever known to be wrong, say they will be together as a couple, and it ends with Maggie kissing Killian (for any reader of the series Danley always specifies kisses, usually initiated by Killian, are of the cheek-forehead, etc., variety; never lips). This kiss has no qualifiers so I’m assuming it was a liplock, a first.
That brings us to this novel, in which Killian and Lacy, not Maggie, become a full-blown romantic couple while Maggie cheers on. Danley also has a scene in which a Wiccan does a sage cleanse of both Maggie and Killian to clear out any void in their hearts. Killian gives Maggie a look that Maggie reads as him thinking nothing could clear the void in her heart. I firmly believe that a man and a woman can be platonic best friends (See Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series or Alex and Meredith in Grey's Anatomy for a frame of reference), but this has not only been a tease, it has been a case of Maggie wearing steel-plated armor and a single-focused intensity of refusal to entertain the idea of romance with no explanation why. As a reader I think I resent that most of all. That we never know why. Neither we nor Maggie know Maggie any better after 10 novels and 3 short stories than we did after the first novel.
And that's not even getting into that Danley has made her heroine and hero the most identically inept undercover fugitives in fiction despite one being highly perceptive and the other being a cynical, streetwise-smart in all other contexts. Danley has turned Killian and the priest into caricatures of themselves. The whole Medusa storyline is filled with contradictions. The villains are not only multiplying to a mind-beggaring degree, they are becoming mix and match props so Maggie can save the world again. There is no payoff in these novels. This series drew us in with charmingly witty, idiosyncratic characters, dangling mysteries, will-they-won't-they romance, and highly imaginative (though a tad too frequent) use of similes that make us laugh out loud. Then it got lost and in the last couple novels, sloppy. While part of me wants to know about Mindy's baby and Vaclav's prophecy, thankfully by the time Aunt Mags comes out I'll be focused elsewhere. I am really tired of reading to get answers and character growth which never comes.
If I was not reading this novel on a digital device I would have thrown it against the wall a dozen times then torn it to pieces. I have just finished the entire Maggie series in a couple weeks and have increasingly felt manipulated and my intelligence insulted. There are only so many times you can make your characters be stupid for the sake of plot or for laughs before both the characters and the plots lose all credibility. And like it or not, as much as the kick-ass ratio is higher in urban fantasy than paranormal romance, it is still in most cases a subgenre of romance. So after eight novels of hinting yes Maggie and Killian will get together after Maggie gets the stick out of her ass, Danley has novel nine repeat that Maggie's psychic Mom, who no one has ever known to be wrong, say they will be together as a couple, and it ends with Maggie kissing Killian (for any reader of the series Danley always specifies kisses, usually initiated by Killian, are of the cheek-forehead, etc., variety; never lips). This kiss has no qualifiers so I’m assuming it was a liplock, a first.
That brings us to this novel, in which Killian and Lacy, not Maggie, become a full-blown romantic couple while Maggie cheers on. Danley also has a scene in which a Wiccan does a sage cleanse of both Maggie and Killian to clear out any void in their hearts. Killian gives Maggie a look that Maggie reads as him thinking nothing could clear the void in her heart. I firmly believe that a man and a woman can be platonic best friends (See Faith Hunter's Jane Yellowrock series or Alex and Meredith in Grey's Anatomy for a frame of reference), but this has not only been a tease, it has been a case of Maggie wearing steel-plated armor and a single-focused intensity of refusal to entertain the idea of romance with no explanation why. As a reader I think I resent that most of all. That we never know why. Neither we nor Maggie know Maggie any better after 10 novels and 3 short stories than we did after the first novel.
And that's not even getting into that Danley has made her heroine and hero the most identically inept undercover fugitives in fiction despite one being highly perceptive and the other being a cynical, streetwise-smart in all other contexts. Danley has turned Killian and the priest into caricatures of themselves. The whole Medusa storyline is filled with contradictions. The villains are not only multiplying to a mind-beggaring degree, they are becoming mix and match props so Maggie can save the world again. There is no payoff in these novels. This series drew us in with charmingly witty, idiosyncratic characters, dangling mysteries, will-they-won't-they romance, and highly imaginative (though a tad too frequent) use of similes that make us laugh out loud. Then it got lost and in the last couple novels, sloppy. While part of me wants to know about Mindy's baby and Vaclav's prophecy, thankfully by the time Aunt Mags comes out I'll be focused elsewhere. I am really tired of reading to get answers and character growth which never comes.
August 16, 2018
In the beginning, this series was great. It was fun, it had a decent plot and a handful of characters you couldn’t help loving.
It is not a great series anymore.
The plot has dragged, the characters have become pale (and dumb, so very very dumb) versions of themselves and each book seems to shovel up more pointless filler and just a tiny hint of plot progression.
Because here’s the thing, Maggie and Killian will end up together, they’ll get married like her mother has been telling them they should have from the beginning and that will be then end of all this Queen bullshit. And Lacy. Because what is even the point of Lacy?
I want to stick it out and see the end but it feels like I’ll be dead before we get there and, seriously, I’m not that old.
It is not a great series anymore.
The plot has dragged, the characters have become pale (and dumb, so very very dumb) versions of themselves and each book seems to shovel up more pointless filler and just a tiny hint of plot progression.
Because here’s the thing, Maggie and Killian will end up together, they’ll get married like her mother has been telling them they should have from the beginning and that will be then end of all this Queen bullshit. And Lacy. Because what is even the point of Lacy?
I want to stick it out and see the end but it feels like I’ll be dead before we get there and, seriously, I’m not that old.
August 14, 2018
Of Mice and MacKays - Book 10
Well all seemed good after Maggie and Killian's defeat of Mad King Cole, the sirens and the vampires at the Oktoberfest in book 9!! But in Maggie MacKay's world nothing good lasts forever, barely a day, umm less then that. Killian, thanks to his (void) locket, was still hidden from the Fairy Queen. The locket is having, unfortunately, some side affects on both Killian and Maggie. Killian no longer has his elf glamour.
The story starts to take off with a hilarious visit to a thrift shop for Killian to buy some needed attire. We meet a new creature called a Golem. It causes all sorts of trouble including having the local police involved. Soon they find out Mad King Cole and the Medusa are working together along with vampire King Vaclav.
Sadly the dimensions (boundaries) are not happy and the Earth starts shaking off and on. On top of that the police are now after Maggie for the incident that happened in the thrift shop. Maggie's Dad and Father Killarney set her and Killian up in a safe house in a special dimension.
From there the story goes fast paced and terrifying. Vampires, what else in new in Maggie's world!! But once again the M-team with Father Killarney, Xiaoming, Lacy and to my delight the Angel Graham are up for the task. They must try and save humans who work and visit at a winery. The vampires are using nasty means to procreate.
There is one scene that had me so freaked out that I had to stop reading. Let's just say I am not a fan of having a massage! I also realized my hopes for one or two of the main characters getting together were dashed, but that is ok.
Overall this is a great plot and with lots of action, some death of course, a number of new characters, a generous amount of hilarious humor and a great ending.
Can't wait for book 11 - "Auntie Maggie"
Kathy Barber Doyle - 8/14/2018
Well all seemed good after Maggie and Killian's defeat of Mad King Cole, the sirens and the vampires at the Oktoberfest in book 9!! But in Maggie MacKay's world nothing good lasts forever, barely a day, umm less then that. Killian, thanks to his (void) locket, was still hidden from the Fairy Queen. The locket is having, unfortunately, some side affects on both Killian and Maggie. Killian no longer has his elf glamour.
The story starts to take off with a hilarious visit to a thrift shop for Killian to buy some needed attire. We meet a new creature called a Golem. It causes all sorts of trouble including having the local police involved. Soon they find out Mad King Cole and the Medusa are working together along with vampire King Vaclav.
Sadly the dimensions (boundaries) are not happy and the Earth starts shaking off and on. On top of that the police are now after Maggie for the incident that happened in the thrift shop. Maggie's Dad and Father Killarney set her and Killian up in a safe house in a special dimension.
From there the story goes fast paced and terrifying. Vampires, what else in new in Maggie's world!! But once again the M-team with Father Killarney, Xiaoming, Lacy and to my delight the Angel Graham are up for the task. They must try and save humans who work and visit at a winery. The vampires are using nasty means to procreate.
There is one scene that had me so freaked out that I had to stop reading. Let's just say I am not a fan of having a massage! I also realized my hopes for one or two of the main characters getting together were dashed, but that is ok.
Overall this is a great plot and with lots of action, some death of course, a number of new characters, a generous amount of hilarious humor and a great ending.
Can't wait for book 11 - "Auntie Maggie"
Kathy Barber Doyle - 8/14/2018
May 7, 2020
These books just pick right up and throw you back into the mayhem that is Maggie's life. She and Killian are hoping they aren't the reason for the random "earthquakes" but things never work out for them like that. There's monsters after them, but luckily the M team is up to the task!
Things in this book kind of meander. I know that we're still hiding Killian from the elf queen and that we're still under this threat of vampires and Maggie's uncle (?). All of that is still there, but we end up on some sort of side quest where Maggie and Killian go to... a winery? Stay with me - there's a reason and it's vampire related (and kind of witch related?). All of the banter and sarcasm you've come to love and expect from Maggie is jammed into this book, of course, so you won't be disappointed there.
I can feel that these books are building to something, but it certainly didn't get there in this installment. Will Maggie and Killian get together ever? I'm not sure I want that. Will they retire and hang out on their front porch in a friendly way? I could get behind that HEA. Either way, there's more books between us and that satisfying ending we are all hoping for!
Things in this book kind of meander. I know that we're still hiding Killian from the elf queen and that we're still under this threat of vampires and Maggie's uncle (?). All of that is still there, but we end up on some sort of side quest where Maggie and Killian go to... a winery? Stay with me - there's a reason and it's vampire related (and kind of witch related?). All of the banter and sarcasm you've come to love and expect from Maggie is jammed into this book, of course, so you won't be disappointed there.
I can feel that these books are building to something, but it certainly didn't get there in this installment. Will Maggie and Killian get together ever? I'm not sure I want that. Will they retire and hang out on their front porch in a friendly way? I could get behind that HEA. Either way, there's more books between us and that satisfying ending we are all hoping for!
April 20, 2018
I love the book! The story picks up where it left off at Octoberfest. The battle is over and Maggie and Killian are enjoying a brew. We know the Queen of the Elves is still looking for Killian but more interesting things are about to happen. You will meet Graham again but you will also see golems, Medusa and a lot of vampires. The earth is having some troubles thanks to a Maggie mistake. But such an interesting mistake cause the ripple effect and wait and see what happens. There is a part where the expression, silence is golden , will have meaning. I really enjoyed the tickling of Maggie by Killian and the ending is awesome! Read and enjoy as there is a few chuckles but and awesome story!
November 29, 2018
Always some excitement
Maggie and Lillian have some interesting and dangerous jobs. I've lost count how many times they have saved the world. I originally thought they world become a couple, but there doesn't seem to be that kind of chemistry between them. Well can't wait to see what the crazy elf queen does now she knows Lillian is alive.
Maggie and Lillian have some interesting and dangerous jobs. I've lost count how many times they have saved the world. I originally thought they world become a couple, but there doesn't seem to be that kind of chemistry between them. Well can't wait to see what the crazy elf queen does now she knows Lillian is alive.
October 16, 2021
Another fun story for the M-Team
The whole crew gets together with a couple of surprising additions.
Just another quick, fun messed up portal situation that’s ruining the worlds. What else is new right? Nothing the M-Team can’t handle while fighting off many interesting enemies.
The whole crew gets together with a couple of surprising additions.
Just another quick, fun messed up portal situation that’s ruining the worlds. What else is new right? Nothing the M-Team can’t handle while fighting off many interesting enemies.
September 13, 2018
The whole team!
I really enjoyed seeing the whole team in action in this book. Lacy is totally bad ass! I’m even starting to like Graham. Great action and wonderful story as always!
I really enjoyed seeing the whole team in action in this book. Lacy is totally bad ass! I’m even starting to like Graham. Great action and wonderful story as always!
July 22, 2019
Dammit. I’m Happy
Sure, the Elf Queen is going after Killian. Sure, Maggie saves the world again and in the process destroys something valuable. Sure I am not going to get that romance I wanted. But I’m fine with that. I am going to patiently wait for Book 11 in the series.
Sure, the Elf Queen is going after Killian. Sure, Maggie saves the world again and in the process destroys something valuable. Sure I am not going to get that romance I wanted. But I’m fine with that. I am going to patiently wait for Book 11 in the series.
October 9, 2019
Maggie & Killian and the gang at the winery
Maggie Mackay and Killian the elf are hiding from the elf queen in an international safe house. They discover that a nearby winery is under the control of vampires.
Characterization & plotting are excellent.
Maggie Mackay and Killian the elf are hiding from the elf queen in an international safe house. They discover that a nearby winery is under the control of vampires.
Characterization & plotting are excellent.
May 25, 2018
Great reading
Maggie does it again, saved the day. The Medusa is no more hopefully, but there are probably more problems in the horizon.
Maggie does it again, saved the day. The Medusa is no more hopefully, but there are probably more problems in the horizon.
March 3, 2019
Just plain fun
The next installment of Maggie & Killian is loads of fun. I sure wish I had a brownie at my house.
The next installment of Maggie & Killian is loads of fun. I sure wish I had a brownie at my house.
December 29, 2019
2.5 stars
May 22, 2021
Anther great Maggie adventure!
This series is truly a great guilty pleasure and the action never stops. It’s only gets better and better! Highly recommended!
This series is truly a great guilty pleasure and the action never stops. It’s only gets better and better! Highly recommended!
October 19, 2021
Fun silly story, with likeable characters. Basically follows the same formula as the other Maggie books. Put you brain on auto-drive and just enjoy the ride.
September 14, 2025
This one wasn't very good. The plot didn't really make sense it didn't feel like the resolution worked.
April 23, 2018
I laughed out loud several times while reading. can't wait to see what happens next
February 4, 2023
Everybody’s least favorite angel is back. Or is it favorite? There is a lot going on and a lot going wrong.
September 13, 2020
I've read nearly her entire cannon and have enjoyed every minute of it. However, this novella feels more like a deleted scene than a complete book and I think I'm done with the Maggie series if this is the future of it.
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March 7, 2019Story finally picked up. However, 10 books, and Maggie and Killian are still not together. :/ Why all the innuendos and hints, then still no romance 10 books after? :( Kinda hoping Maggie's gonna get a happy ending, since she keeps saving the world..or maybe it's just Thursday. :))
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews