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Hidden Legacy #4.1
A Misunderstanding
Some days just suck, especially when your Grandma and your cousins take matters into their own hands, and then you have to take these matters away from them, because the family can’t afford to be sued and your House is not made of money.
Timeline: A deleted scene from Sapphire Flames, told through Arabella's perspective.
Timeline: A deleted scene from Sapphire Flames, told through Arabella's perspective.
13 pages, Unknown Binding
First published July 7, 2019
18 people are currently reading
2631 people want to read
About the author
Ilona Andrews
147 books33.1k 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 167 reviews
September 24, 2019
Final review, first posted on Fantasy Literature:
“A Misunderstanding” is a snippet, deleted from Ilona Andrews’ recently-published Sapphire Flames, that wants to be a short story but doesn’t quite get there. Arabella, the youngest of the three magical Baylor sisters of the HIDDEN LEGACY series, is called by her cousin Leon to come get him and Grandma Frida out of trouble in a case they’ve been investigating. Since Grandma Frida is involved, you know the trouble involves heavy machinery and random acts of destruction.
When Arabella gets to the Katy, Texas home of Sandra Mills, the suspect they’ve been investigating, she finds Leon and Grandma Frida … and a large, vehicle-shaped hole where the front door of the house should have been. She also finds a dented but intact panic room where their suspect is holed up with, per Sandra’s exasperated and upset husband, their “little girl.”
The story is brief and the plot slight, and Sandra is out of touch with reality and more annoying than amusing. But Arabella, a teenager who has the ability to morph into a monstrous Beast of Cologne, has an appealing personality. The rare insight into her thought processes and magical powers makes this a fun snippet for fans of the HIDDEN LEGACY series. The illustration is delightful! And it’s free online, so no complaints!
“A Misunderstanding” is a snippet, deleted from Ilona Andrews’ recently-published Sapphire Flames, that wants to be a short story but doesn’t quite get there. Arabella, the youngest of the three magical Baylor sisters of the HIDDEN LEGACY series, is called by her cousin Leon to come get him and Grandma Frida out of trouble in a case they’ve been investigating. Since Grandma Frida is involved, you know the trouble involves heavy machinery and random acts of destruction.
When Arabella gets to the Katy, Texas home of Sandra Mills, the suspect they’ve been investigating, she finds Leon and Grandma Frida … and a large, vehicle-shaped hole where the front door of the house should have been. She also finds a dented but intact panic room where their suspect is holed up with, per Sandra’s exasperated and upset husband, their “little girl.”
The story is brief and the plot slight, and Sandra is out of touch with reality and more annoying than amusing. But Arabella, a teenager who has the ability to morph into a monstrous Beast of Cologne, has an appealing personality. The rare insight into her thought processes and magical powers makes this a fun snippet for fans of the HIDDEN LEGACY series. The illustration is delightful! And it’s free online, so no complaints!
December 17, 2020
3.5 stars
This was a fun quick read. Arabella is growing on me. These snippets are worth reading if she’s going to have her own arc.
This was a fun quick read. Arabella is growing on me. These snippets are worth reading if she’s going to have her own arc.
September 2, 2019
Just a quick short story that shows what kind of trouble Leon and Grandma can get up to togethers. In Sapphire flames I was wondering how Arabella was able to get some of their more reluctant clients to pay up. Well, this short story shows one of the tricks up her sleeve for making that happen.
I'll be excited to see that side of Arabella a little more.
I'll be excited to see that side of Arabella a little more.
July 12, 2021
A Misunderstanding is a free short story that can be read on Ilona Andrews' website here: https://ilona-andrews.com/a-misunders...
This short story is told from Arabella's point of view (I can't wait to read her trilogy!) and it's set during Sapphire Flames so if you want to know what Leon and Grandma got up to when they took Brick out for a spin this gives you all the glorious details. I love this series and these little extras just make me appreciate it even more, it's always fun to get a little more insight into the side characters and the Baylor family are the best.
This short story is told from Arabella's point of view (I can't wait to read her trilogy!) and it's set during Sapphire Flames so if you want to know what Leon and Grandma got up to when they took Brick out for a spin this gives you all the glorious details. I love this series and these little extras just make me appreciate it even more, it's always fun to get a little more insight into the side characters and the Baylor family are the best.
July 27, 2019
Fun free short story. Am I the only one who wants an Arabella series with her older in a few years and her and Cornelius bond? It could be a clever Beauty and the Beast tale (She's both!) and I dig his character and his bond with "beasts". Doubt it would happen but that would be awesome.
August 20, 2022
Reread, August 2022 : I seriously can't wait for Arabella's series.
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The best thing I've read all week. This made me cackle multiple times. I love this family. I miss this family. I need more now, please.
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The best thing I've read all week. This made me cackle multiple times. I love this family. I miss this family. I need more now, please.
September 15, 2019
This story was originally part of the 4th Hidden Legacy novel but got dropped. I understand why now that I've read the novel but I'm glad the authors are giving it to their fans for free as a bonus.
The story is told from Arabella's point of view (another reason it wouldn't have fit into the novel). She's called by Leon who needs her and grandma Frida's help. Without Catalina knowing about it. Not ominous at all.
Naturally, hilarity ensues. Well, depending on your sense of humour, of course.
We had gotten the short summary of this incident in the novel and I already laughed out loud back then, but reading about it in detail here was even funnier.
Cool addition for any fan of the series. You can read it for free here: https://ilona-andrews.com/a-misunders...
The story is told from Arabella's point of view (another reason it wouldn't have fit into the novel). She's called by Leon who needs her and grandma Frida's help. Without Catalina knowing about it. Not ominous at all.
Naturally, hilarity ensues. Well, depending on your sense of humour, of course.
We had gotten the short summary of this incident in the novel and I already laughed out loud back then, but reading about it in detail here was even funnier.
Cool addition for any fan of the series. You can read it for free here: https://ilona-andrews.com/a-misunders...
February 25, 2020
This was an adorable outtake! I can’t wait for Arabella’s books!
September 10, 2019
Cute. I see why it was deleted. It stands better as a short story. :)
July 27, 2020
What to say about the perfection that is Ilona Andrews writing?!
I am searching for crumbs before Emerald Blaze comes out.
I am searching for crumbs before Emerald Blaze comes out.
November 30, 2020
I'm really looking forward to Arabella's story arc.
I think it's really smart to give us these glances of her inner monologue as we get ready to say goodbye to Catalina (though now in 2022 >:// )
It's also so so interesting to finally get a glimpse into her powers.
Andrews' heroines are always something else.
I think it's really smart to give us these glances of her inner monologue as we get ready to say goodbye to Catalina (though now in 2022 >:// )
It's also so so interesting to finally get a glimpse into her powers.
Andrews' heroines are always something else.
February 7, 2022
So much fun to finally be in Arabella’s head.
“I was the youngest kid in my family, but I was a Baylor. We always pulled our weight.”
Damn right, Queen. ♥️😎
Read: 31/01/2022
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranormal/short story/magic/shifter
Cover: 4 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Arabella)
Will I recommend: Yes
“I was the youngest kid in my family, but I was a Baylor. We always pulled our weight.”
Damn right, Queen. ♥️😎
Read: 31/01/2022
1st rating: 4 stars
Genre/tropes: Paranormal/short story/magic/shifter
Cover: 4 stars
POV’s: Single -1st person (Arabella)
Will I recommend: Yes
November 28, 2020
.
In 'Emerald Blaze', there's a reference to an incident where Leon and Grandma Frida destroy a house incurring a huge debt for a relatively small case.
This is the story where it all happens.
We also get a glimmer of insight into Arabella's power.
Cute and entertaining but only 13 pages.
In 'Emerald Blaze', there's a reference to an incident where Leon and Grandma Frida destroy a house incurring a huge debt for a relatively small case.
This is the story where it all happens.
We also get a glimmer of insight into Arabella's power.
Cute and entertaining but only 13 pages.
July 4, 2022
A must read only to see a bit of a sneak peak to one of Arabella's power. Plus it was humorous.
January 3, 2023
Short story from Arabella's POV.
January 2, 2020
This is Such a fun little snippet It's a damn shame it didn't make the final draft of Sapphire Flames.
If you want to know what Leon and Grandma did with the Brick, here's your chance.
I absolutely can not wait for Arabella's trilogy.
also, here's the link for a fun deleted scene from book two if you haven't already found it
Pay Me
https://ilona-andrews.com/deleted-sce...
If you want to know what Leon and Grandma did with the Brick, here's your chance.
I absolutely can not wait for Arabella's trilogy.
also, here's the link for a fun deleted scene from book two if you haven't already found it
Pay Me
https://ilona-andrews.com/deleted-sce...
July 12, 2021
Love this short with Arabella! Super intriguing.
Read
January 30, 2022“Get to the part where the two of you drove the car into the house.”
Grandma Frida drew herself straight. “It’s not a car. It’s an armored assault vehicle.”
I haven't read the series, but this short has definitely piqued my interest! Very funny.
Grandma Frida drew herself straight. “It’s not a car. It’s an armored assault vehicle.”
I haven't read the series, but this short has definitely piqued my interest! Very funny.
September 18, 2020
My first Ilona Andrews. Even with no understanding of the backstory of the characters, I got a good chuckle out if this. Well done.
October 14, 2021
A deleted scene from SAPPHIRE FLAMES that became a short story for you.
Arabella Baylor's POV
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2019/a-...
"The Yarrow boasted about seventy homesites, all featuring EcoSmart technology, large yards, amenities like tennis courts and an onsite waterpark with slides and a lazy river, and prices of a million and a half and up. According to Leon, they actually measured the grass on each lawn with a ruler. It was so trendy, it made me want to spray paint unicorns pooping rainbows in their driveways just to add some life to the place. Buying a house in Yarrow made a statement. I am successful. Look at my house, look at my beautiful family, look at our lazy river and our precision trimmed lawn and perfect little flowers and despair, for we are better than you."
"The thing about metamorphosis mages was that everyone thought we were one-trick ponies. We turned into monsters and sometimes went nuts. But there was more to it. So much more."
Arabella Baylor's POV
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2019/a-...
"The Yarrow boasted about seventy homesites, all featuring EcoSmart technology, large yards, amenities like tennis courts and an onsite waterpark with slides and a lazy river, and prices of a million and a half and up. According to Leon, they actually measured the grass on each lawn with a ruler. It was so trendy, it made me want to spray paint unicorns pooping rainbows in their driveways just to add some life to the place. Buying a house in Yarrow made a statement. I am successful. Look at my house, look at my beautiful family, look at our lazy river and our precision trimmed lawn and perfect little flowers and despair, for we are better than you."
"The thing about metamorphosis mages was that everyone thought we were one-trick ponies. We turned into monsters and sometimes went nuts. But there was more to it. So much more."
January 30, 2025
2025 Reads #66/250
I need more Ilona Andrews!!!!!! I absolutely love the entire Baylor family. They make me happy.
I need more Ilona Andrews!!!!!! I absolutely love the entire Baylor family. They make me happy.
September 22, 2019
4 stars
September 25, 2019
A deleted scene from SAPPHIRE FLAMES, told from Arabella’s POV. Nice, I didn‘t know Arabella could do that.
Can be read for free here: https://ilona-andrews.com/a-misunders...
Can be read for free here: https://ilona-andrews.com/a-misunders...
February 4, 2020
on the perils of parking a car Humvee
July 26, 2021
A free deleted scene from
Sapphire Flames
, 4, that became a short story. It's 4.1 in the Hidden Legacy magical realism fantasy series and revolves around House Baylor.
My Take
Aha! This explains that initial problem and the fallout in Sapphire Flames , lol. No, no, I really do sympathize with Catalina.
Grandma is certainly old enough to know better. I suppose when you're young at heart with some great toys, it's irresistible to make use of them.
But who'd've thought it would be Arabella who would solve the issue, and one using a first person protagonist point-of-view from Arabella's perspective. ROFL.
Andrews includes a nice chunk about the Baylors' dreams of a house . . . and I gotta say I agree. I wanna choose my own colors and do what I want with my lawn, too. Can you imagine a turret with blazing guns in an HOA neighborhood?
The Baylors are definitely characters, but that Sandy Mills is something else. At least the Baylors are intelligent! Okay, maybe not Grandma so much . . . in this story. Sandy's husband does make a nice foil to all this drama. A normal guy with a nutjob wife.
The pace is quick enough, especially with only 13 pages. And it's a quick read, as I couldn't wait find out what had happened.
It's a laugh and a half.
The Story
A case for Leon to handle that turns into a hostage situation with a little girl at risk.
The Characters
Arabella Baylor is a metamorphosis mage . . . and incredibly scary in her other form. She and her family are the Baylor Investigative Agency.
Her family includes Leon and Bern brothers — cousins to the Baylors — who were adopted into the family, Grandma Frida Baylor who talks to armored vehicles, and Catalina Baylor, who is the head of House Baylor and a siren. The Brick is an armored vehicle Grandma had turned into an indestructible monstrosity.
The Yarrow Case is . . .
. . . named for the subdivision, Yarrow Northwest, a master-planned community in Katy west of Houston. Kent Mills, the suspect’s spouse and a registered nurse, lives in Yarrow. Sandra Mills, Kent's wife, is an accountant. Little Girl, a.k.a., Tuna or Baby, is their white Persian cat.
The Shaw Distillery suspects their bookkeeper of theft. Sergeant Munoz is with Houston PD. Clint runs a bakery. Patrick is with the winery.
The Cover and Title
The cover has no text to it. Nor does it feel related to the story. And I gotta confess that the twiggy monster with its glowing red eyes is not how I think of Arabella. Still it uses pretty colors for the background with the glowing orange sunset descending into the blues and teals of the forest and its floor. I am curious as to who the young-seeming person is with the ragged coat. A peek in the mirror perhaps with the human-appearing Arabella versus her metamorphosed self?
The title is a major bit of denial, for there really isn't "A Misunderstanding".
My Take
Aha! This explains that initial problem and the fallout in Sapphire Flames , lol. No, no, I really do sympathize with Catalina.
Grandma is certainly old enough to know better. I suppose when you're young at heart with some great toys, it's irresistible to make use of them.
But who'd've thought it would be Arabella who would solve the issue, and one using a first person protagonist point-of-view from Arabella's perspective. ROFL.
Andrews includes a nice chunk about the Baylors' dreams of a house . . . and I gotta say I agree. I wanna choose my own colors and do what I want with my lawn, too. Can you imagine a turret with blazing guns in an HOA neighborhood?
The Baylors are definitely characters, but that Sandy Mills is something else. At least the Baylors are intelligent! Okay, maybe not Grandma so much . . . in this story. Sandy's husband does make a nice foil to all this drama. A normal guy with a nutjob wife.
The pace is quick enough, especially with only 13 pages. And it's a quick read, as I couldn't wait find out what had happened.
It's a laugh and a half.
The Story
A case for Leon to handle that turns into a hostage situation with a little girl at risk.
The Characters
Arabella Baylor is a metamorphosis mage . . . and incredibly scary in her other form. She and her family are the Baylor Investigative Agency.
Her family includes Leon and Bern brothers — cousins to the Baylors — who were adopted into the family, Grandma Frida Baylor who talks to armored vehicles, and Catalina Baylor, who is the head of House Baylor and a siren. The Brick is an armored vehicle Grandma had turned into an indestructible monstrosity.
The Yarrow Case is . . .
. . . named for the subdivision, Yarrow Northwest, a master-planned community in Katy west of Houston. Kent Mills, the suspect’s spouse and a registered nurse, lives in Yarrow. Sandra Mills, Kent's wife, is an accountant. Little Girl, a.k.a., Tuna or Baby, is their white Persian cat.
The Shaw Distillery suspects their bookkeeper of theft. Sergeant Munoz is with Houston PD. Clint runs a bakery. Patrick is with the winery.
The Cover and Title
The cover has no text to it. Nor does it feel related to the story. And I gotta confess that the twiggy monster with its glowing red eyes is not how I think of Arabella. Still it uses pretty colors for the background with the glowing orange sunset descending into the blues and teals of the forest and its floor. I am curious as to who the young-seeming person is with the ragged coat. A peek in the mirror perhaps with the human-appearing Arabella versus her metamorphosed self?
The title is a major bit of denial, for there really isn't "A Misunderstanding".
May 19, 2020
Brief but cute. I hope this means there is more Arabella after Catalina's trilogy ends. She's more straight forward than I expected.
October 25, 2020
I love this series so much, I’ll take whatever tidbits I can get. Short read, found on Ilona Andrews’ blog with other free fiction.
August 30, 2019
I'm glad that the author's shared this one with us. It makes a few sentences in Sapphire Flames make much more sense. It would have been fun to read as the action unfolded instead of a quick summary, but I'll take what I can get!
September 8, 2019
Kitaptan çıktığı iyi olmuş. Gereksiz uzatırdı.
September 16, 2019
Another deleted scene, this time from the point of view of Arabella, which was a nice touch :O)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews