Andrews, Ilona; Magic Rises (Kate Daniels #6); "Informal Buddy Read" ; Start Date: March 09, 2014 **REVISIT** TBC June 2018

[Natalie]

Finished

Book (view spoiler)[ The fourth book is my favorite of the series, but this is right up there with it. I know we don’t have the last book yet (but soon!), but upon a reread, this book feels like a shift in the series. While the books are still relatively contained, no major cliffhangers, each book feels like a bit of a set up for the end. I’m so excited for the last book!

My favorite part of this book is when the Shepard saves Kate and they have a nice dinner and discussion. I’ve always found the world in this series fascinating and this scene is a big part of that. I like the idea of these ancients waking up to the changing world. Roland decided to go right back to building an empire. The Shepard just wants to protect his people. Although I always wonder why he waited 20 years.

Kate and Curran. This is such an interesting book for me. Overall, I think Curran screwed up. While I never believed that he would throw over Kate, I do think he handled pretty much everything wrong. One thing I hate in books in stupid manufactured drama between couples. And while this book has a ton of drama that could have been worked out with an honest discussion, it works. Maybe because Kate does push him to be honest with her. He’s not, but he has his reasons. I disagree with them, but understand. I feel a lot of books push the will they won’t they too far because it is easier. But this series I think has taken the absolute right pacing. They didn’t drag out the relationship, issues don’t go away without being discussed, and most importantly I always support the couple.

Hugh. He’s a favorite of mine. I feel he is presented as a romantic foil to Curran, and he’s definitely interested, but I never took him seriously. Kate never seems genuinely interested in him, so I never considered him a rival. I do think in another life, maybe he and Kate could have worked. If she was raised by Roland perhaps? I’m sure there’s some fanfiction out there. I’m super excited for his book in just a few weeks! (hide spoiler)]

Series spoiler (view spoiler)[ Christian is just one of my favorite parts of this book, especially on a reread. My first read I had a feeling there was something to him when Kate won him initially and Hugh was clearly upset. I thought it was just the panacea. But now his comments about angels and flying take on a whole new meaning. (hide spoiler)]

[Silje]

Natalie wrote: "Finished

Book The fourth book is my favorite of the series, but this is right up there with it. I know we don’t have the last book yet (but soon!), but upon a reread, this book feels like a shift..."

I agree with pretty much everything you said!=) But I think that this one might be one notch above the fourth book on the favorite ladder=P

[Deanna]

Anyone else getting ready to read this one?

[Steven]

Just started this one last night, got about 17% in... I remember more about this one than the last two, which for some reason I barely remembered at all.

Curran, you are just purrtastic. Seriously the way you love Julie (and the other kids) and will fight for them, damn. Just *swoon*.

I really like Aunt B. I think she's a great character and would make an awesome tv show character. :P

Can't wait to get deeper into this one, even knowing the bad things coming. I remember really loving this one.

[Deanna]

Steven wrote: "Just started this one last night, got about 17% in... I remember more about this one than the last two, which for some reason I barely remembered at all.

Curran, you are just purrtastic. Seriously..."

I totally agree about Curran and Aunt B.

[Deanna]

Finished through chapter 6 today.

Doolittle - (view spoiler)[I totally loved the way he invited himself along on the ship. They did need someone to test the panacea, and I loved his comment about the group needing a medmage purely based on their history of injuries. (hide spoiler)]

Curran - (view spoiler)[I remember getting really ma d at him the first time I read this. He should have trusted Kate enough to share the info from the pirates. (hide spoiler)]

Kate and Aunt B - (view spoiler)[Kate does a fabulous job dealing with Desandra when they first arrive. Aunt B cracks me up when she comes upon the brawl in the hallway.

"So this is what our European brothers and sisters have been reduced to,...brawling in the hallways like spoiled children. No wonder you had to send for our help." (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

I've read 4 chapters -- will catch up and reply to comments asap :) I plan on reading a lot tonight. I've gotta get to my ARC of book 10! WOOT!

[Diane ~Firefly~]

Deanna wrote: "Finished through chapter 6 today.

Doolittle - [spoilers removed]

Curran - [spoilers removed]

Kate and Aunt B -..."

That is a great Aunt B quote!

[Deanna]

Steven wrote: "I've read 4 chapters -- will catch up and reply to comments asap :) I plan on reading a lot tonight. I've gotta get to my ARC of book 10! WOOT!"

Lucky man. Could you throw a bone to those of us stuck waiting? I'd settle for a snarky comment or two.

[Steven]

When I get there I’ll make sure to message you a snarky comment or two for sure :)

[Deanna]

Chapters 7 - 12

Favorite quote by Kate: "Go to the Black Sea, meet new people, see beautiful places, get killed by a mutant carnivorous kangaroo goat. One item off my bucket list."

Hugh - (view spoiler)[He is very calm about odd creatures attacking his castle and killing his people. I can't remember who is actually behind them; but even if it is not him, he surely must know who is responsible to be so laid back. (hide spoiler)]

Kate - (view spoiler)[I could kick Curran. He knows her past and how hard it is for her to trust. He should be honest about what is going on. She's doing a remarkable job of maintaining her temper and her focus. (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

Chapter 6... this is one reason I love Kate. SNARK.

(view spoiler)["Hey, you. Either put your claws where your mouth is or shut the fuck up. Nobody wants to hear you yip."
Jarek's eyes bulged. Green flared in the depths of his irises, an insane hot flame. He opened his mouth but nothing came out.
"Yes, just like that," I told him. "Less talking, more quiet." (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

Oh, so many little tidbits are coming back to me on this reread. Seeing Lorelai, Desandra, Christopher, Hugh, the creatures, everyone...

Ilona sure is a great writer. *sighs dreamily*

[Steven]

Also, reading Desandra describe (view spoiler)[Gerardo's genitals (hide spoiler)] made me spit water all over my desk at work. #oops

[Deanna]

Steven wrote: "Also, reading Desandra describe [spoilers removed] made me spit water all over my desk at work. #oops"

Sounds like an appropriate reaction to me. I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes imaging the expressions on the guys within hearing range of that conversation..

[Deanna]

Finished today!

The ending - As usual I set aside time to read the last third of the book in one go. Once the action heats up, these books are always nonstop to the end.

Curran and Kate - (view spoiler)[Definitely perfect together. No one else would put up with the stunts that they each pull. I still think she should have hit him a few more time. (hide spoiler)]

The shepherd - (view spoiler)[I have always wondered what mythology he comes from and who exactly he is. I'll have to do some research when I get some time next month. (hide spoiler)]

Christopher - (view spoiler)[I love that Kate freed him and that he can make the panacea. Hugh's overconfidence cost him big time. I would not want to be anywhere nearby when he has to explain to Roland how the Atlanta pack got the secret of panacea. (hide spoiler)]

The short - (view spoiler)[Fun and entertaining. It mostly proves that Grendel is awesome. Saiman should really send the dog a reward. (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

Chapter 14&15 (view spoiler)[ Seriously, Kate. Curran wasn't lying to you when he said there was nothing to worry about. He trusts you to trust him. BAH!

Love how she freed Christopher. Also love how he calls Barabas an angel :)

And Kate, the thing with Curran and "test"... seriously, uggggh (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

I agree with you Deanna, on the Christopher front. I'm so glad that Kate doing the right thing led to a mark in the Win column.

[Deanna]

Steven wrote: "Chapter 14&15 Seriously, Kate. Curran wasn't lying to you when he said there was nothing to worry about. He trusts you to trust him. BAH!

Love how she freed Christopher. Also love how he calls Ba..."

The test - (view spoiler)[Not her smartest move, but I understand her frustration (which could have all been avoided if he trusted her with the plan.) (hide spoiler)]

[Steven]

RIGHT??!?!?!

[Cathy M.]

Not sure if anyone is still around but just started this one today. Need to hurry & read faster so I can catch up with everyone still reading!

Thru Chpt 6 -

(view spoiler)[We just went thru Julie going thru the same thing but for her best friend and her twin sister to go thru the same thing is pretty sad. And god, when Meredith starting singing! Heartbreaking.

I love Doolittle so much. Quite amusing that he just invited himself to go on this trip with them but then again, they always need him because you just know something is going to happen. And weredolphins who are pirates? Huh, didn't remember that. Wonder what that captured one told Curran since he didn't say anything to Kate (at least that we've seen).

Loving the 2 new shapeshifters Eduardo & Keira so far. Can't remember if they are shown in later episodes, but they seem to fit right in! Especially Keira :)

Hugh. I know there are still a couple books before his book so really hoping this re-read changes my mind about him (because I only remember hating him & can't remember if that ever changed). (hide spoiler)]

END OF BOOK SPOILER (view spoiler)[I am so not looking forward to the end of this book though. Remembering what happens to Aunt B *sniff* I'm already feeling anxiety over it. (hide spoiler)]

[Diane ~Firefly~]

Cathy M. wrote: "Not sure if anyone is still around but just started this one today. Need to hurry & read faster so I can catch up with everyone still reading!

Thru Chpt 6 - ..."

through ch 6 (view spoiler)[The beginning is so heartbreaking and makes you cry.

Doolittle is awesome!

I doubt the re-read will change your mind about Hugh, but they did the impossible and made you care when you read his book.
(hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Diane ~Firefly~ wrote: "Cathy M. wrote: "Not sure if anyone is still around but just started this one today. Need to hurry & read faster so I can catch up with everyone still reading!

Thru Chpt 6 - ..."

through ch 6 The..."

(view spoiler)[Hugh's certainly an intriguing character. Still can't picture him as an MC of his own book though! (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Thru Chpt 13 -

(view spoiler)[Oh my god, totally forgot about Doolittle getting hurt *cries* Wow, that was unexpected & when he said he lived a long life & was ready, I just about lost it. I can understand his horror to being healed by Kate like what she did to Julie but understand the hurt too. He should have had more faith in her. So he's disabled now? Wonder how he's going to handle that.

I am loving Desandra - she's a bit crass but so freakin hilarious. Talking about her ex's male bits hahahaha!! But damn, our gang is being attacked left & right! I don't think Hugh is behind it but then again, he did lure Kate there. What is his agenda????

And can I say that I'm seriously disappointed with Curran. COMMUNICATION PLEASE!!!! The whole situation with Lorelei is really annoying, and the fact that he's letting her get close to him in front of Kate & in front of all the other packs, is so wrong. Disrespectful to say the least. (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Thru Chpt 15 -


(view spoiler)[That sparring scene was pretty epic! Of course they were both taught to fight by Voron so makes sense that their fighting styles are similar. And love that's how she freed Christopher! I just want to hug him! (after a bath of course) (hide spoiler)]

[Diane ~Firefly~]

Cathy M. wrote: "Thru Chpt 13 - ..."

(view spoiler)[Desandra didn't grow on me until the next book and Curran drove me crazy with his "plan". Even knowing all the details since it was a re-read I thought he was insane.

(hide spoiler)]

[Diane ~Firefly~]

Cathy M. wrote: "Thru Chpt 15 -


[spoilers removed]"

(view spoiler)[
The sparring scene was amazing and I love how she tricked Hugh into giving up Christopher. (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Diane ~Firefly~ wrote: "Cathy M. wrote: "Thru Chpt 13 - ..."

Desandra didn't grow on me until the next book and Curran drove me crazy with his "plan". Even knowing all the details since it was a re-read I thought he was ..."

(view spoiler)[That means she'll be a recurring character then yay! Some of the things she said were so funny. But she's smart too which means that people are bound to underestimate her. (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Finished! Now to keep my rating at 4 or up it???

(view spoiler)[I so love Christopher & look forward to learning who he really is & how he's going to help the gang (besides the panacea) because I do remember he was important but can't remember why. And I'm really interested in his obsession with flying. When they were running for their lives from the castle & he said "this is so fun!" I was dying.

Even knowing what was going to happen to Aunt B didn't lessen the impact. I think I liked her even more during my re-reads so it actually made it worse. To go out like that. Why couldn't it have been one of the newbies? Why Aunt B? *cries*

And to see Mahon lose his shit when George was hurt? Actually made me feel for him and like him more.

So Curran's plan... Even if Curran let Kate know about it, I want to believe that she still could've played it off. Especially when Lorelei was naked next to him, standing too close to him, etc. I think he just played it all wrong.

Kate - FINALLY getting somewhere with her power! I didn't remember that she actually learned how to form the blood armor but she's finally getting there! With a little more practice :D But she should have so much more magic/power than what she's tapped so far because she's actually Roland's daughter. It doesn't seem right that Hugh appears to be a lot more powerful and have a lot more magic than she does because it's not in his blood. Roland has given him what he has right?

So finally Hugh - okay so I still don't like him. Hmmm. A whole book with him... I'll probably still give his book a shot because I love this series but am still apprehensive about it. I know he'll come up again since he transported before he hit the fire so maybe it'll get better? (hide spoiler)]

[Jane]

Cathy M. wrote: "Finished! Now to keep my rating at 4 or up it???

[spoilers removed]"

This was also a reread for me but as it is 4 years since I last read it I couldn’t remember everything. my rating stays at 5 stars.

(view spoiler)[I also quite like Christopher but even though I have read the next few books I can’t remember his role in those. He is an interesting character and hides a lot of his knowledge though I don’t think it is on purpose.

Aunt B dying was one of the things I did remember and I just felt bad the whole book knowing it was coming. She was such a manipulating bitch but I just couldn’t help loving her. The most important thing to her was her family. I’ll miss her.

Like you I can’t remember Kate actually manage the blood armor before, I’m sure she had failed in all her attempts but she managed now and hopefully that will help her to perfect it.
Hugh having more power than Kate I put down to the fact that he has been taught to use it from Roland whereas Kate has to teach herself as Voron mostly taught her how to fight and survive.

I’m looking forward to reading the book about Hugh but I’ll wait till after book 9

I was annoyed with Curran in this book, I feel like he should have learned by now to trust Kate, instead he hurt her. Bad cat! (hide spoiler)]

[Ora]

I'm in the middle of listening to chapter 10.

I already read Iron and Magic. (view spoiler)[I can see how Hugh should have build on the bond they both had with Voron.
Even though he is the villain in this book, I have a hard time hating him. He is doing Roland's bidding. I really don't remember what type of bond he has with him and if he has any type of free will. (hide spoiler)]

[Ora]

Deanna wrote: "Finished today!

The ending - As usual I set aside time to read the last third of the book in one go. Once the action heats up, these books are always nonstop to the end.

Curran and Kate - [spoil..."

I;m currently listening to ch 16

I have to wonder if Christopher was a gift for Kate. (view spoiler)[If Hugh didn't want the secret of panacea to go to the Pack, he wouldn't have had Christopher there. Hugh is arrogant, not stupid. I really think he used the same psychology Kate did for Julie the last time she ran away from school. She needed to feel like she earned him even though she didn't realize how important he is until the end of the book. I see it as a way to let her know that the Pack would be okay when he took her to Roland. It just didn't work out the Hugh planned. (hide spoiler)]

[Ora]

(view spoiler)[So much tragedy with this book. Doolittle confined to a wheelchair, George's lost arm, Curran's broken legs, Aunt B dying and the ruined panacea. I really hate that Aunt B died. I was so happy when Christopher made the panacea just so Kate would stop crying. That was the best thing that happened. The Pack won't have to worry about ever running out. (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Jane wrote: "Cathy M. wrote: "Finished! Now to keep my rating at 4 or up it???

[spoilers removed]"..."

(view spoiler)[I don't think Christopher is hiding in this one. I think Kate said that Hugh or Roland broke his mind (mental torture in addition to the physical) which explains why he acts the way he does at this point. They just need to get his wires working again!

About Aunt B?! It's like you don't want to read further because you know it's coming but the books so good you don't want to stop.

True about Hugh - he worked directly for Roland & thinking that Roland also gave him some of his power. So not fair! (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Ora wrote: "I'm in the middle of listening to chapter 10...."

(view spoiler)[Was Hugh doing Roland's bidding in this one? I thought it was all Hugh. Or maybe it's just at this point I hated Hugh so wanted to place all the blame on him. Also since Roland hasn't made an appearance yet. (hide spoiler)]

[Cathy M.]

Ora wrote: "[spoilers removed]"

(view spoiler)[The panacea was the topping on the cake. But they did get Christopher & Desandra out of the trip also. And Kate DID beat Hugh's ass when they were sparring :D (hide spoiler)]

[Ora]

Cathy M. wrote: "Ora wrote: "I'm in the middle of listening to chapter 10...."

[spoilers removed]"

I really think Roland gave him the order to bring Kate to him, not how. I'm not sure about the how if it was all Hugh.

[Ora]

Cathy M. wrote: "Ora wrote: "[spoilers removed]"

[spoilers removed]"

I think Hugh let Kate win.

[Cathy M.]

Ora wrote: "Cathy M. wrote: "Ora wrote: "[spoilers removed]"

[spoilers removed]"

I think Hugh let Kate win."

They both seemed to give it their all, and seemed to be pretty evenly matched (most likely because they were both trained by Hugh), so I didn't get that sense at all! Just shows how people read & interpret things differently :P