Iron and Magic (The Iron Covenant, #1)

by Ilona Andrews

“Daniels is pregnant,” Lamar said quietly. “Is it Lennart’s?” He already knew the answer. “They’re married, and she doesn’t seem like the cheating type.” “Roland’s worst fear,” Hugh thought out loud. “Why?” Lamar asked. “Roland’s magic is like a science. It’s systematic, it’s logical, and it has laws. It supports all of the cornerstones of the scientific method: the observation, measurement, experimentation, and formation and testing of theory. He views it as a civilizing force. Shapeshifter magic is ancient and wild. It relies on instinct. It predates Roland’s systematic approach. He derides it as primitive, but he fears it and he’s drawn to it because he doesn’t understand it. He’s fascinated by witches. His daughter is half a witch and now she’s conceived a shapeshifter child.” Understanding shone in Lamar’s eyes. “He’s afraid his grandchild will surpass him.” Hugh nodded. “He’ll do anything to get his hands on that kid. Except that he’s thinking a generation too late. It’s not the baby he needs to worry about. It’s the mother.”