veronian's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Spoiler
It turns out I'm not a fan of the morality chain trope normally, but I am if it's an evil crotchety grandparent
impreader2023's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
rumpunchhh's review
4.0
Still my favorite trilogy in this world but I really need Ilona Andrew’s to work on their climax battle scenes because they always feel anticlimactic. There’s also a lack of stakes that’s now in both trilogies and. Kate Daniels that cheapens the suspense.
Still fucjing loved and will read Arabella’s trilogy
Still fucjing loved and will read Arabella’s trilogy
carlajasmine's review
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
naiapard's review
5.0
I have to admit that I wasn't that into Catalina's story. It may be because I like to follow the line of just one character in a series and I do not like it when the installment jumps to another.
But these authors are doing such a great job that I couldn't miss onto anything that they would write.
So, even though this is not my favorite book of theirs, I am still really appreciative of their work. Thank you!
nemerith's review
5.0
The last Catalina book... I'm not sure if I want to cry or be happy...
Worldbuilding:
The head of the Assembly murdered, Linus attacked and a Russian Prince on their doorstep... And the day has only just begun. Oh boy *rubs hands in obvious glee*
This is the final part of Catalina's story, so be ready for a lot of things to happen and many loose ends to be tied up. As always, the scenes and environments were superbly written and detailed enough for perfect immersion.
Character development:
Catalina is Acting Warden, she just discovered a new aspect of her power (which is awesome but scary as hell) and has a House war finally closing in.
Alessandro is running himself ragged between all the jobs he has taken on. He needs sleep and to be with his woman... and not take calls in Italian about who knows what...
They both have their work cut out for them, and it won't be easy. But then again, we're talking about the Baylors, so that is pretty much a given.
Oh, and I nearly forgot about our Russian prince!! I hope we get to see more of him (and his family) in future instalments :D :D
The whole cast is so well-written, it's pretty insane. Every time I read a book by the author, I'm blown away by the level of skill. Every one of the cast matters, they don't care if it's a small role or the leading role. That character will have depth, hopes and fears and purpose. /bow
Pacing and flow:
The book, nay, the series is like my favourite latte macchiato with caramel, only the caramel is some fae substance and addicting. It just doesn't let you go until you reached the end, and you're stuck with a book hangover.
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There is no sex described (if that is important to you).
It has 380 pages, spread over 19 chapters and is told from Catalina's point of view.
Final thoughts:
I love this series so much. Each and every book is just sooooo gooood! Superb writing, from scenes and environments to the whole cast. I cannot recommend it enough.
If you like urban fantasy with a dash of romance, and kickass heroines with swoon-worthy men who help them, then this series is one you really need to pick up!
Now let's all keep our fingers crossed for an Arabella book. We need more Baylor in our lives!
Worldbuilding:
The head of the Assembly murdered, Linus attacked and a Russian Prince on their doorstep... And the day has only just begun. Oh boy *rubs hands in obvious glee*
This is the final part of Catalina's story, so be ready for a lot of things to happen and many loose ends to be tied up. As always, the scenes and environments were superbly written and detailed enough for perfect immersion.
Character development:
Catalina is Acting Warden, she just discovered a new aspect of her power (which is awesome but scary as hell) and has a House war finally closing in.
Alessandro is running himself ragged between all the jobs he has taken on. He needs sleep and to be with his woman... and not take calls in Italian about who knows what...
They both have their work cut out for them, and it won't be easy. But then again, we're talking about the Baylors, so that is pretty much a given.
Oh, and I nearly forgot about our Russian prince!! I hope we get to see more of him (and his family) in future instalments :D :D
The whole cast is so well-written, it's pretty insane. Every time I read a book by the author, I'm blown away by the level of skill. Every one of the cast matters, they don't care if it's a small role or the leading role. That character will have depth, hopes and fears and purpose. /bow
Pacing and flow:
The book, nay, the series is like my favourite latte macchiato with caramel, only the caramel is some fae substance and addicting. It just doesn't let you go until you reached the end, and you're stuck with a book hangover.
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There is no sex described (if that is important to you).
It has 380 pages, spread over 19 chapters and is told from Catalina's point of view.
Final thoughts:
I love this series so much. Each and every book is just sooooo gooood! Superb writing, from scenes and environments to the whole cast. I cannot recommend it enough.
If you like urban fantasy with a dash of romance, and kickass heroines with swoon-worthy men who help them, then this series is one you really need to pick up!
Now let's all keep our fingers crossed for an Arabella book. We need more Baylor in our lives!
emreadswhatshewants's review
4.0
I am ashamed to admit that this is the first time in years that I have read a physical copy of a book and not my usual instant gratification of e books. And the reason for that wildly astounds me because this is not the first but second giveaway I have (somehow miraculously) won in the last thirty days. I received the book in the mail today, greedily consumed it all in one sitting (I mean how can you not, its Ilona Andrews) and still I can't believe that I not only won a giveaway (the first was a kindle book) but actually got to read the series conclusion two whole months before it came out. I mean me?? I've never won anything in my life before so I am completely thrown. Anyways I would happily pay double or even triple to have the ability to read books that haven't released yet (I'm looking at you Milla Vane). But to basically have it gifted...just speechless.
As all books in this series go, this sucks the reader directly into the world of the Baylors and sets a fast action packed pace basically from start to finish. Ilona Andrews mind is truly insane to come up with some of the inner workings of some of these characters' minds...because even though I had an idea, I didn't really see some of the stuff coming. I would have loved a little more on page time from Nevada and Rogan but I knew this was Catalina's book and didn't expect them to come up as much anyway. I didn't love the middle eastern representation, it felt like trying to be inclusive but not in a good way. Similar to how some authors might incorporate one dimensional black or lgbt characters only to make them a casualty on page...idk its pretty minor but I still feel it reinforces negative stereotypes. Perhaps I'm just overly sensitive about this specifically since for the most part no one really cares and I should be happy with any inclusion.
Another thing that kind of annoys me is the villainous women and I notice its a trend in Ilona Andrews books. Usually some smart pretty girl tries to come up and take the mmc away. And I know its never serious but something about women being written like that again and again feels demeaning. Not enough to take away from my overall enjoyment of the book (or even downgrade it more than a star) which aside from my super picky gripes is pretty good.
Wow have I rambled. I do not sound like the fangirl for this series that I actually am. To echo a common sentiment, I cannot believe this isn't a tv series yet. But then again it would probably be ruined in the process. Everyone waiting for the final installment of Catalina's trilogy will not be disappointed.
As all books in this series go, this sucks the reader directly into the world of the Baylors and sets a fast action packed pace basically from start to finish. Ilona Andrews mind is truly insane to come up with some of the inner workings of some of these characters' minds...because even though I had an idea, I didn't really see some of the stuff coming. I would have loved a little more on page time from Nevada and Rogan but I knew this was Catalina's book and didn't expect them to come up as much anyway. I didn't love the middle eastern representation, it felt like trying to be inclusive but not in a good way. Similar to how some authors might incorporate one dimensional black or lgbt characters only to make them a casualty on page...idk its pretty minor but I still feel it reinforces negative stereotypes. Perhaps I'm just overly sensitive about this specifically since for the most part no one really cares and I should be happy with any inclusion.
Another thing that kind of annoys me is the villainous women and I notice its a trend in Ilona Andrews books. Usually some smart pretty girl tries to come up and take the mmc away. And I know its never serious but something about women being written like that again and again feels demeaning. Not enough to take away from my overall enjoyment of the book (or even downgrade it more than a star) which aside from my super picky gripes is pretty good.
Wow have I rambled. I do not sound like the fangirl for this series that I actually am. To echo a common sentiment, I cannot believe this isn't a tv series yet. But then again it would probably be ruined in the process. Everyone waiting for the final installment of Catalina's trilogy will not be disappointed.
lphr3ads's review
5.0
This is it! It's the conclusion of Catalina's story arc. I cannot put into words how desperately I wanted this book. I just have to know what sort of chaos and drama are packed into Ruby Fever. The book starts off with a concise summary of past events, while the Baylors are looking to purchase a new home/base of operations. With Runa and Bern going steady and the kids are mostly grown adults, everybody needs their own space. The story kicks off with a normal work day for Baylor Investigations. Unfortunately, one of their cases involves an expensive and smuggled spider, who escapes into the air vents after a botched hand-over. This becomes a humorous side quest for the kiddo consultants (Ragnor and Matilda). And then the sh*t hits the proverbial fan with a murder and an attack on the Warden of Texas. This sets off a chain of clashes and skirmishes between House Baylor and Arkan's organization. This book was packed. As in action-packed. Full of drama, love, and badassery. In the previous two books, Catalina comes into her own as a Prime Siren and Head of House Baylor. In this final book for Catalina, we delve into another facet of Catalina's Siren abilities. There were several plotlines that were neatly dealt with and some new ones were merely hinted at. We've seen in previous books that Cornelius may be more powerful than his Significant designation and in Ruby Fever, it's pretty clear that Cornelius is not only a strong animal mage but also a very observant and loyal friend. We also get a hint that Matilda may also be a Prime in her own right.
And then there is the whole Caesar subplot that was woven throughout the Hidden Legacies series, was revisited and we "finally" know the identity of Caesar. I had my suspicions for some time, but it was nice to get confirmation. Let's just say there are a lot of obvious details alluding to the identity of Caesar and the identity of their Grandfather (read the 'The Cool Aunt' deleted scene for clues). I did feel that Arabella was put on the back burner for a good chunk of the book. Since this pseudo-trilogy focuses on Catalina, it makes sense. Realistically, Arabella's powers should be kept secret, and involving her in a fight willy-nilly would not be in the best interest of the House. But on the same side, the epilogue kind of throws secrecy out the window (hint hint wink wink). I sincerely appreciate the fact that Ilona and Gordon hinted at a possible love interest for Arabella. If the writing duo ends up writing Arabella's story arc, they have some leeway and a place to start. With the arrival of an Imperial Russian Prince, Catalina and Alessandro's relationship is tested. The prologue included a lovely proposal with a ruby ring, but the engagement was hardly mentioned throughout the book. I found it a little odd, but given all of the action going on, it's understandable that some details would fall into the cracks. Overall, this book was the perfect conclusion to Catalina's story arc. And spoiler alert: there's a wedding to look forward to.
And then there is the whole Caesar subplot that was woven throughout the Hidden Legacies series, was revisited and we "finally" know the identity of Caesar. I had my suspicions for some time, but it was nice to get confirmation. Let's just say there are a lot of obvious details alluding to the identity of Caesar and the identity of their Grandfather (read the 'The Cool Aunt' deleted scene for clues). I did feel that Arabella was put on the back burner for a good chunk of the book. Since this pseudo-trilogy focuses on Catalina, it makes sense. Realistically, Arabella's powers should be kept secret, and involving her in a fight willy-nilly would not be in the best interest of the House. But on the same side, the epilogue kind of throws secrecy out the window (hint hint wink wink). I sincerely appreciate the fact that Ilona and Gordon hinted at a possible love interest for Arabella. If the writing duo ends up writing Arabella's story arc, they have some leeway and a place to start. With the arrival of an Imperial Russian Prince, Catalina and Alessandro's relationship is tested. The prologue included a lovely proposal with a ruby ring, but the engagement was hardly mentioned throughout the book. I found it a little odd, but given all of the action going on, it's understandable that some details would fall into the cracks. Overall, this book was the perfect conclusion to Catalina's story arc. And spoiler alert: there's a wedding to look forward to.