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Hidden Legacy #3.5
Diamond Fire
Nevada Frida Baylor and Connor Ander Rogan cordially invite you to join their wedding celebration.
Summoning, weather manipulation, and other magical activities strictly forbidden.
Catalina Baylor is looking forward to wearing her maid-of-honor dress and watching her older sister walk down the aisle. Then the wedding planner gets escorted off the premises, the bride’s priceless tiara disappears, and Rogan's extensive family overruns his mother’s home. Someone is cheating, someone is lying, and someone is plotting murder.
To make this wedding happen, Catalina will have to do the thing she fears most: use her magic. But she’s a Baylor and there’s nothing she wouldn't do for her sister's happiness. Nevada will have her fairy tale wedding, even if Catalina has to tear the mansion apart brick by brick to get it done.
Summoning, weather manipulation, and other magical activities strictly forbidden.
Catalina Baylor is looking forward to wearing her maid-of-honor dress and watching her older sister walk down the aisle. Then the wedding planner gets escorted off the premises, the bride’s priceless tiara disappears, and Rogan's extensive family overruns his mother’s home. Someone is cheating, someone is lying, and someone is plotting murder.
To make this wedding happen, Catalina will have to do the thing she fears most: use her magic. But she’s a Baylor and there’s nothing she wouldn't do for her sister's happiness. Nevada will have her fairy tale wedding, even if Catalina has to tear the mansion apart brick by brick to get it done.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2018
About the author
Ilona Andrews
143 books31.6k 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 2,049 reviews
January 9, 2022
Previous rating: 3.5 stars.
New rating: 3.53245869 stars. Go me and stuff.
➽ And the moral of this reread is: I’m so in 💕lurve💕 withNevada’s MY dragony lovely mother in law that I’m seriously thinking of asking her to marry me. Which might a teensy little bit awkward given that she’s my deliciously tactile husband’s mommy, but they both have very open minds, so I’m pretty fairly reasonable certainly sure they won’t, um, you know, mind and stuff. So here goes and stuff:
There’s no way the Tactile Mum can resist such a Superbly Extra Sexey Sensible Loving Face (SESSLF™), if you ask me. So expect to receive the wedding invites by NSCPS (Nefariously Speedy Crustacean Postal Service) pronto, my Little Barnacles.
P.S. I want a Runa + Leon spinoff. I might unleash my murderous children on the Mostest Awesomest Authorlords if doesn’t happen post haste. But hey, no pressure and stuff.
· Book 1: Burn for Me ★★★★★
· Book 2: White Hot ★★★★★
· Book 3: Wildfire ★★★★★
· Book 4: Sapphire Flames ★★★
· Book 5: Emerald Blaze ★★★
· Book 6: Ruby Fever - to be released 2022
[Original review]
Actual rating: 3.5 pathetic stars.I nearly almost rated it 3.345862 stars and a half but then thought that if I did the Mostest Awesomest Authorlords might force me to relinquish my harem rights over the Scourge of Mexico, so I didn’t.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that I read this novella wrong and have Despicable Book Taste (DBT™). There, I said it. Happy now? Moving on and stuff.
Okay. So. When I started this book, I had no particular expectations. I mean, I was somewhat kind of excited at the prospect of reading a new instalment in this series (which I like a little), especially since it was supposed to be about my wedding to the Yummy Butcher of Merida. (He was supposed to marry someone else, you say? Don’t be ridiculous now, Mr Tactile and my little nefarious self have been affianced for decades and our nuptials were announced eons ago. Didn’t you get the invite and stuff?). In short, I very logically assumed that because this was IA and because this was Hidden Legacy, I could expect to experience something akin to this:
Don’t ask.
The thing is, I never stopped to think how the change in POV from Nevada to Catalina might affect the tone of the story, and how different it would be from previous instalments in the series as a result. (Goes to show you can be both utterly nefarious and ever-so-slightly harebrained.) And after reading three stupendously scrumpalicious books written from a kick-ass, independent, strong, adult woman's perspective (Nevada might be only in her mid-twenties, but she is much, much more mature than your average female UFjuvenile nitwit lead of the same age), the switch to Catalina’s POV was a bit, err, you know, um, unsettling and stuff. Don’t get me wrong (or do, it’s not like I'm going to lose any sleep over it and stuff), I don’t dislike Catalina as a character, but she doesn’t make a convincing lead for me. Not yet, anyway. She is too young, too inexperienced and isn’t that charismatic, to be honest. Yes, I know, this is a bridge story and the next instalment will take place three years in the future, so Catalina should be more mature and a solid MC in it. In the meantime, she isn’t, and this novella feels revoltingly YA-ish as a result.
You got that right, Hot Stuff.
This might not be a problem for most of you, Little Barnacles, but I happen to think that YA should be outlawed, so you can imagine how I felt when reading this story. (Then again, maybe not. I mean, I’ve heard that barnacles have zero imagination and stuff, so...) Of course, this novella being Mostest Awesomest Authorlords-type YA, it’s entertaining and enjoyable and fun and stuff, and didn’t repulse me like awakens-the-homicidal-in-me-type YA usually does. So yay and stuff.
The story itself was alright, if a bit lite and decaf and GMO-free by IA standards. I have nothing against tiaras or overabundant Spanish relatives (I have a few of those myself and haven’t unleashed the murderous crustaceans on them. Yet) but I can’t say the plot was particularly gripping. Also, its resolution was slightly very meh.
One of the things that bothered me most is the way Nevada and Rogan are portrayed in the novella. YES, I KNOW, we are seeing them through Catalina’s eyes, which explains why they would seem different than what we are used to, but it doesn’t account for the fact that they sometimes act like they had personality transplants. My Scourge of Mexico mostly acts detached and indifferent, as if he didn’t give a fish about the life-threatening situation his family and wedding guests are in. (But apparently I read this extremely wrong, and we are to assume he wasn’t as uninterested as he appeared, and involved in a way we aren’t aware of, so don’t mind me and stuff.)
And don’t get me started aboutNevada Bridezilla. Most Some people seem to think that it’s natural for all women to lose their mind while they’re preparing their wedding *eyeroll*, which implies that we shouldn’t be surprised to see Nevada act this way *eyerolling intensifies*, but:
1) They are wrong.
2) I don’t agree with their wrong opinion.
3) Sexist crap is sexist.
4) Notwithstanding whatmost some people think, the way Nevada sometimes behaves in this story is completely out of character. (I personally think that the real Nevada was abducted by villainous aliens and replaced by a malevolent clone, just so you know.)
“Is there a point to this GIF,” you ask? No, why? Should there be?
Now let’s pretend I didn’t write any of the moderately negative above-mentioned stuff and that you didn’t read it (you couldn’t have, since I didn’t write it), and focus on the good stuff:
① Catalina’s Siren powers: they are Slightly Very Wondrous (SVW™) so I’m stealing them from her and stuff. They will greatly help me in my nefarious undertakings, methinks.
② My new mommy-in-law, Arrosa: I fell in 💕lurve💕 with her at “Connor Ander Rogan” (and the subsequent “Yes, Mother” she got from my dearly beloved). Also, she kicks major derriere. So QED and stuff.
③ Leon: I’m demanding (very politely, of course) a Dark Horse spin-off. In which Leon will be 40+ years old so I don’t feel like a total creep for lusting after him. Thank thee kindly, Mostest Awesomest Authorlords.
④ Runa Etterson and her yummy magic: I might possibly maybe want to be her and have her delicious powers when I grow up. Perhaps. Because poison makes everything cooler. Ergo Magus Venenata =
➽ And the moral of thisYou I Might Have Read This Wrong Not Entirely Right But It’s Okay You Are I Am Entitled To Your Erroneous My Almost Nearly Legitimate Opinion Crappy Non Review (YIMHRTWNERBIOYAIAETYEMYNLOCNR™) is: a good thing I had planned to write a short review for this novella. Had I decided to write a long one, Catalina’s great great grandkids would have been old enough to have great great grandkids by the time I finished. So go me and stuff.
[Pre-review nonsense]
Most shameful, lamest rating EVER for a Mostest Awesomest Authorlords (MAA™) book, I know.
BUT. I have a very valid excuse here. (Of course I do. Who do you take me for, anyway? A second-class villain or something?) I am NOT the one who read and rated this book. Nope nope nope. My Evil Twin of the Despicable Book Taste (ETotDBT™) did. Ha. Explains a lot, doesn't it? I knew you’d understand, my Comely Decapods. Ha again.
➽ Full Don’t Blame Me Blame The Despicable One Crappy Non Review (DBMBTDOCNR™) to come.
➽ September 7, 2018: non-spoilery excerpt from chapter one available here!!!
➽ July 8, 2018: the book is officially finished! Time for a Tiny Yet Yummy We Lurves Leon Snippet (TYYWLLS™)!!
➽ July 1, 2018: we have a cover!!!
➽ June 22, 2018: it's Snippety Snippet Day!
➽ May 31, 2018: all hail the very first Diamond Fire Snippet!
➽ May 2, 2018: It’s official!!!!!!! We have a title!!!!!!!!!!!
➽ April 30, 2018: we have a tentative title! It's Diamond Fire! And we should have a cover posthaste! Wheeeeeee and stuff!!!!!
➽ April 21, 2018: If you want to know more abouttactile stuff the upcoming Hidden Legacy novels (don’t know why anyone would but what can I say, people are weird sometimes) follow the yellow brick road click on this link and stuff. You are quite welcome.
➽ April 19, 2018: I think there might perhaps be a very minor announcement on the blog. Maybe. Not sure though. I'll just copy/paste it here so you can judge for your little selves and stuff:
"Three more novels in Ilona Andrews' Hidden Legacy series, focusing on the emerging powers and personalities of previously-introduced House Baylor family members, for publication starting in fall 2019, plus a novella to bridge the gap, published by Avon Impulse in November 2018."
Did I just die and go to shrimpy heaven? I think I just died and went to shrimpy heaven. Either that or mydaily puny human sacrifices to the Most Glorious Authorlords finally paid off nightly prayers to Saint Shrimp have finally been answered.
P.S. Don't tell anyone, but I think two virtual unknowns just invited us to theirtactile wedding in November:
Ooops, sorry, wrong invite.
Now that's more like it.
What. Shrimping. Huh? Hell. Stinking. Bloody. Fish.
Real. Thing. This. Damn. Is??!!!
Date. Release. There. Is??!!
Pre-order. For. It. Up. Is??!!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
New rating: 3.53245869 stars. Go me and stuff.
➽ And the moral of this reread is: I’m so in 💕lurve💕 with
There’s no way the Tactile Mum can resist such a Superbly Extra Sexey Sensible Loving Face (SESSLF™), if you ask me. So expect to receive the wedding invites by NSCPS (Nefariously Speedy Crustacean Postal Service) pronto, my Little Barnacles.
P.S. I want a Runa + Leon spinoff. I might unleash my murderous children on the Mostest Awesomest Authorlords if doesn’t happen post haste. But hey, no pressure and stuff.
· Book 1: Burn for Me ★★★★★
· Book 2: White Hot ★★★★★
· Book 3: Wildfire ★★★★★
· Book 4: Sapphire Flames ★★★
· Book 5: Emerald Blaze ★★★
· Book 6: Ruby Fever - to be released 2022
[Original review]
Actual rating: 3.5 pathetic stars.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that I read this novella wrong and have Despicable Book Taste (DBT™). There, I said it. Happy now? Moving on and stuff.
Okay. So. When I started this book, I had no particular expectations. I mean, I was somewhat kind of excited at the prospect of reading a new instalment in this series (which I like a little), especially since it was supposed to be about my wedding to the Yummy Butcher of Merida. (He was supposed to marry someone else, you say? Don’t be ridiculous now, Mr Tactile and my little nefarious self have been affianced for decades and our nuptials were announced eons ago. Didn’t you get the invite and stuff?). In short, I very logically assumed that because this was IA and because this was Hidden Legacy, I could expect to experience something akin to this:
Don’t ask.
The thing is, I never stopped to think how the change in POV from Nevada to Catalina might affect the tone of the story, and how different it would be from previous instalments in the series as a result. (Goes to show you can be both utterly nefarious and ever-so-slightly harebrained.) And after reading three stupendously scrumpalicious books written from a kick-ass, independent, strong, adult woman's perspective (Nevada might be only in her mid-twenties, but she is much, much more mature than your average female UF
You got that right, Hot Stuff.
This might not be a problem for most of you, Little Barnacles, but I happen to think that YA should be outlawed, so you can imagine how I felt when reading this story. (Then again, maybe not. I mean, I’ve heard that barnacles have zero imagination and stuff, so...) Of course, this novella being Mostest Awesomest Authorlords-type YA, it’s entertaining and enjoyable and fun and stuff, and didn’t repulse me like awakens-the-homicidal-in-me-type YA usually does. So yay and stuff.
The story itself was alright, if a bit lite and decaf and GMO-free by IA standards. I have nothing against tiaras or overabundant Spanish relatives (I have a few of those myself and haven’t unleashed the murderous crustaceans on them. Yet) but I can’t say the plot was particularly gripping. Also, its resolution was slightly very meh.
One of the things that bothered me most is the way Nevada and Rogan are portrayed in the novella. YES, I KNOW, we are seeing them through Catalina’s eyes, which explains why they would seem different than what we are used to, but it doesn’t account for the fact that they sometimes act like they had personality transplants. My Scourge of Mexico mostly acts detached and indifferent, as if he didn’t give a fish about the life-threatening situation his family and wedding guests are in. (But apparently I read this extremely wrong, and we are to assume he wasn’t as uninterested as he appeared, and involved in a way we aren’t aware of, so don’t mind me and stuff.)
And don’t get me started about
1) They are wrong.
2) I don’t agree with their wrong opinion.
3) Sexist crap is sexist.
4) Notwithstanding what
“Is there a point to this GIF,” you ask? No, why? Should there be?
Now let’s pretend I didn’t write any of the moderately negative above-mentioned stuff and that you didn’t read it (you couldn’t have, since I didn’t write it), and focus on the good stuff:
① Catalina’s Siren powers: they are Slightly Very Wondrous (SVW™) so I’m stealing them from her and stuff. They will greatly help me in my nefarious undertakings, methinks.
② My new mommy-in-law, Arrosa: I fell in 💕lurve💕 with her at “Connor Ander Rogan” (and the subsequent “Yes, Mother” she got from my dearly beloved). Also, she kicks major derriere. So QED and stuff.
③ Leon: I’m demanding (very politely, of course) a Dark Horse spin-off. In which Leon will be 40+ years old so I don’t feel like a total creep for lusting after him. Thank thee kindly, Mostest Awesomest Authorlords.
④ Runa Etterson and her yummy magic: I might possibly maybe want to be her and have her delicious powers when I grow up. Perhaps. Because poison makes everything cooler. Ergo Magus Venenata =
➽ And the moral of this
[Pre-review nonsense]
Most shameful, lamest rating EVER for a Mostest Awesomest Authorlords (MAA™) book, I know.
BUT. I have a very valid excuse here. (Of course I do. Who do you take me for, anyway? A second-class villain or something?) I am NOT the one who read and rated this book. Nope nope nope. My Evil Twin of the Despicable Book Taste (ETotDBT™) did. Ha. Explains a lot, doesn't it? I knew you’d understand, my Comely Decapods. Ha again.
➽ Full Don’t Blame Me Blame The Despicable One Crappy Non Review (DBMBTDOCNR™) to come.
➽ September 7, 2018: non-spoilery excerpt from chapter one available here!!!
➽ July 8, 2018: the book is officially finished! Time for a Tiny Yet Yummy We Lurves Leon Snippet (TYYWLLS™)!!
➽ July 1, 2018: we have a cover!!!
➽ June 22, 2018: it's Snippety Snippet Day!
➽ May 31, 2018: all hail the very first Diamond Fire Snippet!
➽ May 2, 2018: It’s official!!!!!!! We have a title!!!!!!!!!!!
➽ April 30, 2018: we have a tentative title! It's Diamond Fire! And we should have a cover posthaste! Wheeeeeee and stuff!!!!!
➽ April 21, 2018: If you want to know more about
➽ April 19, 2018: I think there might perhaps be a very minor announcement on the blog. Maybe. Not sure though. I'll just copy/paste it here so you can judge for your little selves and stuff:
"Three more novels in Ilona Andrews' Hidden Legacy series, focusing on the emerging powers and personalities of previously-introduced House Baylor family members, for publication starting in fall 2019, plus a novella to bridge the gap, published by Avon Impulse in November 2018."
Did I just die and go to shrimpy heaven? I think I just died and went to shrimpy heaven. Either that or my
P.S. Don't tell anyone, but I think two virtual unknowns just invited us to their
Ooops, sorry, wrong invite.
Now that's more like it.
What. Shrimping. Huh? Hell. Stinking. Bloody. Fish.
Real. Thing. This. Damn. Is??!!!
Date. Release. There. Is??!!
Pre-order. For. It. Up. Is??!!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
June 25, 2024
Diamond Fire is a novella with a purpose to smooth the change from Nevada’s ark to Catalina’s story. It uses Nevada’s wedding as a setting but the story is told from Catalina’s point of view. After her sister fires two of her wedding planners, Catalina steps in to organize the wedding. When Rogan family tiara disappears, she has to employ all her detecting skills to find the thief. It is of no help that most of Connor’s family are horrible people with a lot of secrets.
November 9, 2018
3.5 stars. Final review first posted on Fantasy Literature:
Nevada Baylor is getting married to Connor Rogan, and when Rogan’s mother Arrosa shuts down their plans for a small and simple wedding, insisting on a full-scale formal wedding, a couple of things happen.
Nevada inexplicably gets incredibly fussy and controlling about the wedding details, firing two wedding planners, and her beleaguered 18 and 16 year old sisters Catalina and Arabella decide that the only feasible option is to handle the wedding planning themselves. And a large crowd of Rogan’s Spanish relatives on his mother’s side descends on Mrs. Rogan’s Texas mansion for a few weeks’ stay before the wedding. The half of those relatives who descend from her father’s second wife are already hostile, and matters only get worse when everyone is cooped up together in the same home, however large and luxurious.
Now the Rogan family’s valuable heirloom wedding tiara has disappeared from the vault, a kokoshnik (Russian crown) with a large heart-shaped aquamarine as its centerpiece. An embedded sensor indicates that the Sealight Crown is still on the Rogan mansion’s premises. Arrosa Rogan, not wanting to involve the police in a family problem (since it’s almost certain that a relative stole it from their vault using telekinetic powers), asks Catalina to find the Sealight Crown and, by the way, get it back before the wedding in two weeks. But that’s only the beginning of the family problems that Catalina gets hit with before the wedding!
Diamond Fire is an interim novella in Ilona Andrews’ HIDDEN LEGACY urban fantasy series, set in an alternative history of our world in which some families ― typically wealthy and powerful ones ― have inheritable magical powers. The Baylor clan is neither wealthy nor politically powerful, but does have several family members with powerful magic. The first three novels in this series, beginning with Burn for Me, featured Nevada Baylor as the main character. Diamond Fire marks a turning point, as the focus of the series now shifts to Nevada’s younger sister Catalina.
Catalina has “siren” powers, the ability to make people immediately adore her and do whatever she asks, but it’s resulted in Catalina being shy and unwilling to trust that people really like her for herself, not just because of her magic. The case of the stolen Sealight Crown forces Catalina to begin breaking out of her shell and to experiment with her magical talent, finding interesting new ways to use it in her investigations.
Andrews provides a handy Rogan family tree at the beginning of Diamond Fire; it’s worth studying. Trust me on this. There are a lot of underhanded dealings and resentments brewing in Mrs. Rogan’s mother’s side of the family, and it devolves into a near-farcical soap opera in the end, with the disclosure of several embarrassing secrets. The plot of Diamond Fire, though it never bored me, isn’t one of the more memorable or creative ones that Andrews has come up with, and contains no romance and limited use of magic to spice it up. The storytelling probably also was hampered somewhat by the novella length of Diamond Fire, especially given the large number of new and unfamiliar characters in its pages. The story seems quite tame after the pyrotechnics of the first three books in the HIDDEN LEGACY series.
I enjoyed getting to know Catalina better, a talented young woman who’s unusually withdrawn and uncertain for an Andrews heroine. Wedding planning and jewelry theft investigation are a rather unlikely and hefty responsibility to dump on the eighteen-year-old sister of the bride, but Catalina rises to the occasion, and makes a new and useful friend in Mrs. Rogan in the process.
Diamond Fire is for readers who are already invested in the HIDDEN LEGACY series. It’s a somewhat slight novella, but it has several good scenes and interactions (a quirky poison mage is a scene stealer!) and achieves the task of shifting focus to a new main character to carry the series forward. At just a $1.99 ebook cost, it’s definitely worth the price for fans of this series. I’m anxious to read the next Catalina book!
I received a free eARC, courtesy of Edelweiss and Harper Collins. Thanks so much!!
Nevada Baylor is getting married to Connor Rogan, and when Rogan’s mother Arrosa shuts down their plans for a small and simple wedding, insisting on a full-scale formal wedding, a couple of things happen.
Nevada inexplicably gets incredibly fussy and controlling about the wedding details, firing two wedding planners, and her beleaguered 18 and 16 year old sisters Catalina and Arabella decide that the only feasible option is to handle the wedding planning themselves. And a large crowd of Rogan’s Spanish relatives on his mother’s side descends on Mrs. Rogan’s Texas mansion for a few weeks’ stay before the wedding. The half of those relatives who descend from her father’s second wife are already hostile, and matters only get worse when everyone is cooped up together in the same home, however large and luxurious.
Now the Rogan family’s valuable heirloom wedding tiara has disappeared from the vault, a kokoshnik (Russian crown) with a large heart-shaped aquamarine as its centerpiece. An embedded sensor indicates that the Sealight Crown is still on the Rogan mansion’s premises. Arrosa Rogan, not wanting to involve the police in a family problem (since it’s almost certain that a relative stole it from their vault using telekinetic powers), asks Catalina to find the Sealight Crown and, by the way, get it back before the wedding in two weeks. But that’s only the beginning of the family problems that Catalina gets hit with before the wedding!
Diamond Fire is an interim novella in Ilona Andrews’ HIDDEN LEGACY urban fantasy series, set in an alternative history of our world in which some families ― typically wealthy and powerful ones ― have inheritable magical powers. The Baylor clan is neither wealthy nor politically powerful, but does have several family members with powerful magic. The first three novels in this series, beginning with Burn for Me, featured Nevada Baylor as the main character. Diamond Fire marks a turning point, as the focus of the series now shifts to Nevada’s younger sister Catalina.
Catalina has “siren” powers, the ability to make people immediately adore her and do whatever she asks, but it’s resulted in Catalina being shy and unwilling to trust that people really like her for herself, not just because of her magic. The case of the stolen Sealight Crown forces Catalina to begin breaking out of her shell and to experiment with her magical talent, finding interesting new ways to use it in her investigations.
Andrews provides a handy Rogan family tree at the beginning of Diamond Fire; it’s worth studying. Trust me on this. There are a lot of underhanded dealings and resentments brewing in Mrs. Rogan’s mother’s side of the family, and it devolves into a near-farcical soap opera in the end, with the disclosure of several embarrassing secrets. The plot of Diamond Fire, though it never bored me, isn’t one of the more memorable or creative ones that Andrews has come up with, and contains no romance and limited use of magic to spice it up. The storytelling probably also was hampered somewhat by the novella length of Diamond Fire, especially given the large number of new and unfamiliar characters in its pages. The story seems quite tame after the pyrotechnics of the first three books in the HIDDEN LEGACY series.
I enjoyed getting to know Catalina better, a talented young woman who’s unusually withdrawn and uncertain for an Andrews heroine. Wedding planning and jewelry theft investigation are a rather unlikely and hefty responsibility to dump on the eighteen-year-old sister of the bride, but Catalina rises to the occasion, and makes a new and useful friend in Mrs. Rogan in the process.
Diamond Fire is for readers who are already invested in the HIDDEN LEGACY series. It’s a somewhat slight novella, but it has several good scenes and interactions (a quirky poison mage is a scene stealer!) and achieves the task of shifting focus to a new main character to carry the series forward. At just a $1.99 ebook cost, it’s definitely worth the price for fans of this series. I’m anxious to read the next Catalina book!
I received a free eARC, courtesy of Edelweiss and Harper Collins. Thanks so much!!
August 7, 2020
Re-read Time!!!
Just as good the second time.
Original Review
Diamond Fire is a transition story, it moves us away from Nevada as the main character to Catalina being the PoV for the series. This doesn’t have all of the things that I love in an IA book but please remember that this is a novella and so it isn’t supposed to come with all of the bells and whistles of a full length novel.
① - I think the movement to Catalina as the PoV went well. Nevada has tossed the baton beautifully to her younger sister to take over from here.
② - Everthing with the side characters is awesome as usually. We even get a new Grandma type to love in Rogan’s Mom. She is fan-freaking-tastic and I can’t wait to get to know her better in future books. There is the introduction of another House’s Prime mage who I hope we see in the future. But, Leon steals the show and is fantastic in his new role in the family. I really like this upgraded version of him now that he knows what his magic is and has become more comfortable in his skin.
③ - The actual story. It isn’t as complicated as a full length novel but it is a fun little side show. I figured out where the Crown went pretty early but that was only one part of the story. The other was all the family drama. No wonder Rogan lets people believe that he really doesn’t have any family. There were a few gems in the family but most of them were just awful.
④ - Showing off Catalina’s magic and the potential of what it can do. This is one of those times where when you get to see something from the inside it doesn’t sound as great. I thought it would be fantastic to have Catalina’s power when reading the other series. But it has to be hard to know that you can never relax with a person you like or your power might take hold of them and give them false feelings.
It would be a struggle. I really enjoyed exploring the magic though and the potential it could hold. Plus I’m glad that we are holding off on the potential romance between Alessandro and Catalina until there is a full series to play with it.
⑤ - Catalina’s relationship with Arabella is also in the big win column for me. I love how they fight as sisters and are there for each other in every way. They are so close and protective. I’m hoping that we get to see a lot of Arabella in the future books since she is a great counterpoint to Catalina’s serious side.
I read this in a group and there were a few grumblings. I understand a few of them but just so maybe you aren’t too surprised I’ll just address a few.
① - Nevada and Rogan seem so different. Well, yes and no. To me they seemed a little different and a loof or uncaring in some instances but remember this is from a totally different PoV and so perception is everything. Catalina is going to see both of them differently and just because you don’t see them doing things in the background doesn’t mean they aren’t reacting to situation.
② - Nevada went all Bridezilla on us - Again…did she? I mean there are certain things that she wants in her wedding and doesn’t want to budge on. Plus she and Rogan only wanted a small wedding but they are Primes and so it had to be a big tahdoo There are other things she just doesn’t really care about all that much and so I don’t think she put a lot of effort into the colors of them. I’d feel a little bad for Catalina and Arabella as her wedding planners, but they teased her so much pre-proposal that I feel like a little bit of it is payback.
③ - The resolution of the Kelly Waller plot line wasn’t what I wanted it to be. I’m totally fine with how this particular plot line played out. I thought that it was the perfect wedding present to Nevada and Rogan. With a new series starting up focused on Catalina and some of the other kids a little more I liked that this wasn’t left lingering.
④ - This didn’t feature a romance with Alessandro. GOOD. I need books with the slow burn and intensity of their love story or another love interest inbetween or something. I don’t want it in a novella I need way more pages for that particular story to be told.
It’s Ilona Andrews so you know that this novella is going to be fun and you are going to have a good time with it. I liked most of this book and even though we are moving from Nevada I see a lot of potential with the other characters and can’t wait to see where they take this series next.
Just as good the second time.
Original Review
Diamond Fire is a transition story, it moves us away from Nevada as the main character to Catalina being the PoV for the series. This doesn’t have all of the things that I love in an IA book but please remember that this is a novella and so it isn’t supposed to come with all of the bells and whistles of a full length novel.
╰⊰✿ What Diamond Fire Did Great ✿⊱╮
① - I think the movement to Catalina as the PoV went well. Nevada has tossed the baton beautifully to her younger sister to take over from here.
② - Everthing with the side characters is awesome as usually. We even get a new Grandma type to love in Rogan’s Mom. She is fan-freaking-tastic and I can’t wait to get to know her better in future books. There is the introduction of another House’s Prime mage who I hope we see in the future. But, Leon steals the show and is fantastic in his new role in the family. I really like this upgraded version of him now that he knows what his magic is and has become more comfortable in his skin.
Leon let out a long- suffering sigh. “Are you sure that I’ll be enough? These places can get pretty rough. You walk into a cake shop and then some gunslinger tells you, ‘You ain’t from around here, partner,’ and the next thing you know, you’re in the middle of the street, your horse is dead, the bad guy’s got your girl by her hair, and you’re down to one bullet.”
“What is going on in your head?”
“It’s a dark, lawless place, Catalina. So dark.”
③ - The actual story. It isn’t as complicated as a full length novel but it is a fun little side show. I figured out where the Crown went pretty early but that was only one part of the story. The other was all the family drama. No wonder Rogan lets people believe that he really doesn’t have any family. There were a few gems in the family but most of them were just awful.
④ - Showing off Catalina’s magic and the potential of what it can do. This is one of those times where when you get to see something from the inside it doesn’t sound as great. I thought it would be fantastic to have Catalina’s power when reading the other series. But it has to be hard to know that you can never relax with a person you like or your power might take hold of them and give them false feelings.
But when I saw Alessandro, I wanted to snap my wings open as far as they could go and dazzle him with everything I had, so he would be mine forever. I liked him so much, I had to let him go.
It would be a struggle. I really enjoyed exploring the magic though and the potential it could hold. Plus I’m glad that we are holding off on the potential romance between Alessandro and Catalina until there is a full series to play with it.
⑤ - Catalina’s relationship with Arabella is also in the big win column for me. I love how they fight as sisters and are there for each other in every way. They are so close and protective. I’m hoping that we get to see a lot of Arabella in the future books since she is a great counterpoint to Catalina’s serious side.
╰⊰✿ What Might Not Work For You in Diamond Fire ✿⊱╮
I read this in a group and there were a few grumblings. I understand a few of them but just so maybe you aren’t too surprised I’ll just address a few.
① - Nevada and Rogan seem so different. Well, yes and no. To me they seemed a little different and a loof or uncaring in some instances but remember this is from a totally different PoV and so perception is everything. Catalina is going to see both of them differently and just because you don’t see them doing things in the background doesn’t mean they aren’t reacting to situation.
② - Nevada went all Bridezilla on us - Again…did she? I mean there are certain things that she wants in her wedding and doesn’t want to budge on. Plus she and Rogan only wanted a small wedding but they are Primes and so it had to be a big tahdoo There are other things she just doesn’t really care about all that much and so I don’t think she put a lot of effort into the colors of them. I’d feel a little bad for Catalina and Arabella as her wedding planners, but they teased her so much pre-proposal that I feel like a little bit of it is payback.
③ - The resolution of the Kelly Waller plot line wasn’t what I wanted it to be. I’m totally fine with how this particular plot line played out. I thought that it was the perfect wedding present to Nevada and Rogan. With a new series starting up focused on Catalina and some of the other kids a little more I liked that this wasn’t left lingering.
④ - This didn’t feature a romance with Alessandro. GOOD. I need books with the slow burn and intensity of their love story or another love interest inbetween or something. I don’t want it in a novella I need way more pages for that particular story to be told.
╰⊰✿Read This!!!✿⊱╮
It’s Ilona Andrews so you know that this novella is going to be fun and you are going to have a good time with it. I liked most of this book and even though we are moving from Nevada I see a lot of potential with the other characters and can’t wait to see where they take this series next.
December 21, 2022
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I've been sitting on this one for a while, saving it for a rainy day because I knew I'd love it and wanted to savor the prospect of reading it. With all the quarantining going on, now seemed like an excellent time to revisit the world of Hidden Legacy, Primes, and, of course, Mad Rogan.
DIAMOND FIRE is the bridge between the original trilogy starring Nevada and the new series starring Catalina. Nevada is now getting married to Rogan and the Baylors have their own prestigious House with multiple primes (although the records of the minors are sealed). Catalina and Arabella are tasked by Rogan to make sure that the wedding goes smoothly... but wedding planning takes a sinister turn for the worst when theft and poison enter the mix.
Catalina ends up acting as investigator on her own, trying to figure out who might want to stop Nevada and Rogan's wedding, whether they're willing to kill to do so, and if it's an inside job. She really comes into her own in this book, developing a confidence in herself, as well as her controversial and powerful abilities.
I loved Catalina and I'm sure I'm going to love her even more once I read her "official" novel, but this book had some problems. Part of me wants to give it 5 STARS out of my sheer love for the original trilogy but this does have some of the typical novella problems. The first half is very rushed and has a definitive "fanfic" vibe. The second half is much better, pacing-wise, and I liked Catalina a lot more as a narrator. Which is one of the problems I had with this book.
Nevada was made into a total Bridezilla for the lolz. And while I get that nerves and perfectionism make everyone a little crazy, it did almost feel like Nevada was demonized to make Catalina seem more likable and even-tempered by comparison. Which was totally unnecessary! One of the things I loved about the original story was Nevada's loving dynamic with her family. So making Nevada go le cray cray felt not only out of character but also kind of mean.
Ilona Andrews, I expect better from you!
As a fan of The Hidden Legacy trilogy, I'm giving this a four star rating because it was really, really fun and the mystery element was much less silly than I was afraid it was going to be. However, this is not a standalone and can't really be read and appreciated without the original trilogy under your belt, and it does have some pretty major problems that I just can't overlook, no matter how much I love IA.
4 stars
November 12, 2018
I know it's a novella, but still, I needed more! I love these characters so much and can't wait for what comes next. This book was like eating one potato chip. Just that perfect chip, fresh from the bag, with the perfect amount of salt.
Then, no more. Just one. The rest will sit there looking delicious and mocking you.
So, it wasn't enough. But still, what we got was fun. Nevada and Rogan are getting married and Catalina is the wedding planner. She is under a lot of pressure, and then Rogan's extended crazy family shows up and makes everything a thousand times harder. Family - you can't have nice things with them, and you can't kill them.
Except this grandma. I wonder if she'd do a boudoir photo shoot for me to give to my husband. Not of me. Of her. I could use the extra sleep.
Of course someone steals a valuable item at the family gathering. They are all suspects and Catalina has to figure it out while trying not to offend everyone.
The baby did it. I knew it!
This was fun and gives us a little taste of what Catalina's series will be like. I can't wait. So, now I guess I'll just wait...
Then, no more. Just one. The rest will sit there looking delicious and mocking you.
So, it wasn't enough. But still, what we got was fun. Nevada and Rogan are getting married and Catalina is the wedding planner. She is under a lot of pressure, and then Rogan's extended crazy family shows up and makes everything a thousand times harder. Family - you can't have nice things with them, and you can't kill them.
Except this grandma. I wonder if she'd do a boudoir photo shoot for me to give to my husband. Not of me. Of her. I could use the extra sleep.
Of course someone steals a valuable item at the family gathering. They are all suspects and Catalina has to figure it out while trying not to offend everyone.
The baby did it. I knew it!
This was fun and gives us a little taste of what Catalina's series will be like. I can't wait. So, now I guess I'll just wait...
April 28, 2022
1st read - 15th August 2018
2nd read - 27th August 2018
3rd read - November 2018
4th read - March 2019
5th read - August 2019
6th read - May 2020
7th read - August 2020
8th read - March 2021
9th read - July 2021
Diamond Fire is a novella in the Hidden Legacy series that bridges from the first trilogy told in Nevada's point of view and helps us transition into the upcoming trilogy that will have Catalina at the forefront. It ties up a few loose ends, raises a whole new set of questions and gives us just a tiny hint of the kind of main character that Catalina is going to be.
I have to confess that I was kind of hoping this story would be told entirely from Nevada's point of view, I'm a teeny bit obsessed with Nevada and Rogan so I was hoping for one last story with them entirely front and centre (let's face it, I just wanted more tactile sexy times!) but I know to trust Ilona & Gordon Andrews and they didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed the chance to see Nevada and Rogan take this next big step in their relationship and I'll be happy to see the occasional glimpse of them in the background as the series continues but I absolutely loved getting to know Catalina better.
Catalina is a very different type of heroine to Nevada, she's less confident and more self conscious, especially when it comes to her magic, but she's just as protective of the people she cares about and equally capable of standing up to anyone who threatens her family. I really enjoyed seeing Nevada and the rest of the family through Catalina's eyes and I loved getting to know Rogan's mother a little better as she takes Catalina under her wing. I think what is going to be really nice about Catalina's story is that we're probably going to get to know the younger members of House Baylor a little better, Nevada was quite a bit older than her sisters and cousin Leon so Catalina has a different type of relationship with Arabella which will be fun to explore.
While this story is very much about Catalina and Arabella helping to plan the wedding of the century it is also a mystery with a possible thief amongst Rogan's closest family members and a potential plot that could put the entire wedding party in danger. Catalina doesn't want to worry her sister so she's going to have to do the one thing she really hates doing and start using her magic to help her figure out what is going on. We've already seen a little of Catalina's powers in the past but we find out so much more of what she can do here and I can't wait to see her exploring her ability further as the series continues.
Diamond Fire was a fantastic story that left me with a massive smile on my face about Nevada and Rogan's HEA and also left me ridiculously excited to get my hands on Catalina's spin off series. I've been a huge Ilona Andrews fan for a long time now but their stories honestly just get better and better every time.
__________________________
Full review to come closer to the official release date but this was all the epic awesomeness that you'd expect from an IA story. I'll confess I was hoping for a little more Nevada and Rogan sexy time BUT I absolutely loved getting Catalina's POV, she's very different to her big sister but super sweet and I'm looking forward to her trilogy even more now. Rogan's mother is fantastic, the wedding planning was hilarious and we get to spend time with Nevada's fab family which is always fun.
UPDATE 15th August:
DIAMOND FIRE IS UP ON EDELWEISS!!! This is not a drill people DIAMOND FIRE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEWERS RIGHT THIS SECOND AND I JUST SENT IT TO MY KINDLE!!!!
____________
I know nothing about this, there's no title, no cover, no blurb . . . all we can tell is it's something to do with the Hidden Legacy series.
Hell, what more do I actually need to know? It's already up on Amazon so OF COURSE I've preordered it! Is it November yet? How many times do we think I can manage to reread the first 3 books between now and the release date?
Update 18th April:
From Ilona's blog
We get a wedding novella AND THREE MORE BOOKS in a new spin off trilogy!! And I thought I couldn't possibly get more excited LOL
Update 26th April:
In case you missed it there is all kinds of extra info about the new Hidden Legacy series in this Entertainment Weekly interview with Ilona and Gordon. I am so bloody excited about this spin off!
2nd read - 27th August 2018
3rd read - November 2018
4th read - March 2019
5th read - August 2019
6th read - May 2020
7th read - August 2020
8th read - March 2021
9th read - July 2021
Diamond Fire is a novella in the Hidden Legacy series that bridges from the first trilogy told in Nevada's point of view and helps us transition into the upcoming trilogy that will have Catalina at the forefront. It ties up a few loose ends, raises a whole new set of questions and gives us just a tiny hint of the kind of main character that Catalina is going to be.
I have to confess that I was kind of hoping this story would be told entirely from Nevada's point of view, I'm a teeny bit obsessed with Nevada and Rogan so I was hoping for one last story with them entirely front and centre (let's face it, I just wanted more tactile sexy times!) but I know to trust Ilona & Gordon Andrews and they didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed the chance to see Nevada and Rogan take this next big step in their relationship and I'll be happy to see the occasional glimpse of them in the background as the series continues but I absolutely loved getting to know Catalina better.
Catalina is a very different type of heroine to Nevada, she's less confident and more self conscious, especially when it comes to her magic, but she's just as protective of the people she cares about and equally capable of standing up to anyone who threatens her family. I really enjoyed seeing Nevada and the rest of the family through Catalina's eyes and I loved getting to know Rogan's mother a little better as she takes Catalina under her wing. I think what is going to be really nice about Catalina's story is that we're probably going to get to know the younger members of House Baylor a little better, Nevada was quite a bit older than her sisters and cousin Leon so Catalina has a different type of relationship with Arabella which will be fun to explore.
While this story is very much about Catalina and Arabella helping to plan the wedding of the century it is also a mystery with a possible thief amongst Rogan's closest family members and a potential plot that could put the entire wedding party in danger. Catalina doesn't want to worry her sister so she's going to have to do the one thing she really hates doing and start using her magic to help her figure out what is going on. We've already seen a little of Catalina's powers in the past but we find out so much more of what she can do here and I can't wait to see her exploring her ability further as the series continues.
Diamond Fire was a fantastic story that left me with a massive smile on my face about Nevada and Rogan's HEA and also left me ridiculously excited to get my hands on Catalina's spin off series. I've been a huge Ilona Andrews fan for a long time now but their stories honestly just get better and better every time.
__________________________
Full review to come closer to the official release date but this was all the epic awesomeness that you'd expect from an IA story. I'll confess I was hoping for a little more Nevada and Rogan sexy time BUT I absolutely loved getting Catalina's POV, she's very different to her big sister but super sweet and I'm looking forward to her trilogy even more now. Rogan's mother is fantastic, the wedding planning was hilarious and we get to spend time with Nevada's fab family which is always fun.
UPDATE 15th August:
DIAMOND FIRE IS UP ON EDELWEISS!!! This is not a drill people DIAMOND FIRE IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEWERS RIGHT THIS SECOND AND I JUST SENT IT TO MY KINDLE!!!!
____________
I know nothing about this, there's no title, no cover, no blurb . . . all we can tell is it's something to do with the Hidden Legacy series.
Hell, what more do I actually need to know? It's already up on Amazon so OF COURSE I've preordered it! Is it November yet? How many times do we think I can manage to reread the first 3 books between now and the release date?
Update 18th April:
From Ilona's blog
We get a wedding novella AND THREE MORE BOOKS in a new spin off trilogy!! And I thought I couldn't possibly get more excited LOL
Update 26th April:
In case you missed it there is all kinds of extra info about the new Hidden Legacy series in this Entertainment Weekly interview with Ilona and Gordon. I am so bloody excited about this spin off!
September 7, 2021
Pretty darn good for a short.
And it's not really all that 'short'. Think of it as a less-than-medium-size-story.
If you're an Andrews fan, you'll read this regardless.
Because they are magic.
The good kind, though.
Ok, so I'm actually way more interested in Catalina than I was in Nevada & Connor's story - even though I liked those two quite well. There's just something about this kid that makes me want to read about her.
The idea that your powers make it so that you never know when someone truly loves you? Of course, I'm sure there must be a way around that...
It a nice HEA wrap-up for Nevada & Connor, and just enough of an intro to get you excited for the next real book with Catalina.
Very cool.
And it's not really all that 'short'. Think of it as a less-than-medium-size-story.
If you're an Andrews fan, you'll read this regardless.
Because they are magic.
The good kind, though.
Ok, so I'm actually way more interested in Catalina than I was in Nevada & Connor's story - even though I liked those two quite well. There's just something about this kid that makes me want to read about her.
The idea that your powers make it so that you never know when someone truly loves you? Of course, I'm sure there must be a way around that...
It a nice HEA wrap-up for Nevada & Connor, and just enough of an intro to get you excited for the next real book with Catalina.
Very cool.
November 14, 2021
4/21/18 - an interview with the authorlords by ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY about the new HIDDEN LEGACY installments went live this morning:
http://ew.com/books/2018/04/21/ilona-...
4/4/18:
So not only is this a thing, but it’s up for PREORDER:
https://amzn.to/2q3OGqn
Sneaky Authorlords are sneaky. 😈
http://ew.com/books/2018/04/21/ilona-...
4/4/18:
So not only is this a thing, but it’s up for PREORDER:
https://amzn.to/2q3OGqn
Sneaky Authorlords are sneaky. 😈
September 5, 2021
4 stars
12/11/18
Review to come. Loved it even if I missed Nevadas voice.
31/5/18
SNIPPET!
My phone chimed. A text from Rogan. “You’re missing the show.”
“What show?”
“Come outside.”
I really wanted to run upstairs to my old room and lock the door. I couldn’t do that for two reasons. One, I was an adult, and two, Catalina moved into my room, so it wasn’t technically mine anymore.
It was absurd. I was a trained private investigator with almost ten years of experience. Baylor Investigative Agency existed today because I took it over when Dad got sick and made it successful against all odds. Not only that, but I was a Prime, the highest level of magic user one could reach. My paternal grandmother had the same talent, and people cringed when they heard her name. I had stood up to her and to a dozen of other Primes. In the past year I’ve been shot at, hit with a car, burned, teleported, and frozen nearly to death. I had a bus almost dropped on me, I faced a psionic who nearly destroyed my mind, and I told Connor Rogan, the Scourge of Mexico, no repeatedly and stood my ground. I should be able to meet my fiancé’s mother.
I could do this.
I got up, put my plate into the sink, hugged my mom, and went to the door.
A gunmetal grey Range Rover waited in front of our warehouse. Rogan leaned against it. I’ve seen him in twenty-thousand-dollar suit and in dirt-stained jeans and a T-shirt. No matter what he wore, Rogan always had a kind of rugged masculinity about him. You got a sense that nothing would knock him off his stride. Whatever came up, he would handle it and he wouldn’t panic. The fact that he was huge, over six feet tall and built like he fought people for a living, only added to it. Today he wore a pair of jeans and an olive T-shirt.
Oh no.
I stopped.
“What?” he asked.
“We match,” I ground out.
“So?”
“I’m going to go change.”
He caught my hand and drew me to him. His dark blue eyes laughed at me. He leaned down and kissed me. He tasted of mint and coffee and the touch of his lips anchored me. You know what, it would be fine.
“You look great. Also, if you leave, you’ll miss the best part.”
He nodded to my left. I glanced in that direction.
A sapphire-blue Maserati GranCabrio was parked at the curb. Next to it, directly under my – no, my sister’s – window stood Alessandro Sagredo.
19/4/18
So excited! We get more Baylors!!
http://www.ilona-andrews.com/hidden-l...
Three more novels in Ilona Andrews‘ Hidden Legacy series, focusing on the emerging powers and personalities of previously-introduced House Baylor family members, for publication starting in fall 2019, plus a novella to bridge the gap, published by Avon Impulse in November 2018, to Erika Tsang at Avon, by Nancy Yost at Nancy Yost Literary Agency (world).
7/4/18
Where was I???? What's it about??? Is it Catalina and Alessandro?? I might faint! I have not seen this on their blog or any of their newsletters. I sure hope it's for real. It is, right? GR wouldn't let me down. Right?
12/11/18
Review to come. Loved it even if I missed Nevadas voice.
31/5/18
SNIPPET!
My phone chimed. A text from Rogan. “You’re missing the show.”
“What show?”
“Come outside.”
I really wanted to run upstairs to my old room and lock the door. I couldn’t do that for two reasons. One, I was an adult, and two, Catalina moved into my room, so it wasn’t technically mine anymore.
It was absurd. I was a trained private investigator with almost ten years of experience. Baylor Investigative Agency existed today because I took it over when Dad got sick and made it successful against all odds. Not only that, but I was a Prime, the highest level of magic user one could reach. My paternal grandmother had the same talent, and people cringed when they heard her name. I had stood up to her and to a dozen of other Primes. In the past year I’ve been shot at, hit with a car, burned, teleported, and frozen nearly to death. I had a bus almost dropped on me, I faced a psionic who nearly destroyed my mind, and I told Connor Rogan, the Scourge of Mexico, no repeatedly and stood my ground. I should be able to meet my fiancé’s mother.
I could do this.
I got up, put my plate into the sink, hugged my mom, and went to the door.
A gunmetal grey Range Rover waited in front of our warehouse. Rogan leaned against it. I’ve seen him in twenty-thousand-dollar suit and in dirt-stained jeans and a T-shirt. No matter what he wore, Rogan always had a kind of rugged masculinity about him. You got a sense that nothing would knock him off his stride. Whatever came up, he would handle it and he wouldn’t panic. The fact that he was huge, over six feet tall and built like he fought people for a living, only added to it. Today he wore a pair of jeans and an olive T-shirt.
Oh no.
I stopped.
“What?” he asked.
“We match,” I ground out.
“So?”
“I’m going to go change.”
He caught my hand and drew me to him. His dark blue eyes laughed at me. He leaned down and kissed me. He tasted of mint and coffee and the touch of his lips anchored me. You know what, it would be fine.
“You look great. Also, if you leave, you’ll miss the best part.”
He nodded to my left. I glanced in that direction.
A sapphire-blue Maserati GranCabrio was parked at the curb. Next to it, directly under my – no, my sister’s – window stood Alessandro Sagredo.
19/4/18
So excited! We get more Baylors!!
http://www.ilona-andrews.com/hidden-l...
Three more novels in Ilona Andrews‘ Hidden Legacy series, focusing on the emerging powers and personalities of previously-introduced House Baylor family members, for publication starting in fall 2019, plus a novella to bridge the gap, published by Avon Impulse in November 2018, to Erika Tsang at Avon, by Nancy Yost at Nancy Yost Literary Agency (world).
7/4/18
Where was I???? What's it about??? Is it Catalina and Alessandro?? I might faint! I have not seen this on their blog or any of their newsletters. I sure hope it's for real. It is, right? GR wouldn't let me down. Right?
November 9, 2018
You're going to need to reference that family tree diagram at the beginning of the book repeatedly while reading this, but other than that small problem this novella/book is the usual Ilona Andrews perfection! Nevada and Rogan are getting married and Catalina is in charge as wedding planner. Only in the course of her duties she also has to investigate a theft which leads to several skeletons in the extended Rogan family closet coming to light. Oh and of course there is magic. Love this series, love this author. Give me more, give me more, give me more!
November 6, 2018
I wanted this one to be Nevada-Rogan book. I am disappointed as this one was an introduction to Catalina, female of next trilogy. A decent read. It would be interesting to read a full story about her magic.
May 4, 2023
A fun novella bridging the gap between Nevada’s books and Catalina’s, with the focus on Nevada and Connor (Mad Rogan’s) wedding. With all the evil, scheming guests invited on Connor’s side, is it any surprise things start to go wrong? First, a family heirloom goes missing , then when House scheming and attempts against House Baylor/Rogan ramp up, Catalina (who narrates most of this), has to use her abilities to figure out who is behind it. This was really cool, has me excited to read Catalina’s series, and came to an exciting (as always) conclusion.
September 1, 2020
4.5 stars
Diamond Fire was a wonderful novella! Not every author can write a novella that doesn't make the reader feel like it was rushed or parts were missing. But as always the author delivered. And as a matter of fact the novella perfectly introduced the upcoming trilogy. A trilogy about Catalina. And I must confess I'm already hooked. This fantastic and magical world had me captivated from the very beginning.
I love this series so much!
Unsurprisingly I reread the entire Hidden Legacy trilogy in preparation for Diamond Fire. And boy am I glad I did! Everything was vibrant and fresh in my memory. Just in time to enjoy Catalina carrying her own novella. And she did it perfectly!
Catalina is not like Nevada. In fact she is a more quite, and serious personality. Maybe because she had to repress her magic her entire life. However, it seems like she is stretching her wings so to speak. And it's going to be a pleasure to see her experiment those powers. Naturally I can't wait to read more about her. Because she rocked this book!
I love mysteries!
In Diamond Fire Catalina skillfully solved a wonderfully entertaining mystery. Because Catalina worked for the family company for years, she definitely knew what she was doing. Granted she had seen Nevada work with clients over the years, but the way she handled herself was impressive. In fact she was professional, knowledgeable, smart and mature in handling the entire situation. I already know her stories will be brilliant.
Even though Diamond Fire introduced a huge cast with Rogan's family, the original cast from the trilogy was still present. Because of this, it was the PERFECT way of connecting Nevada's trilogy with the upcoming books about Catalina. It felt like a continuation. I thought the novella was very well done.
And I'm really excited!!
I'm honestly counting down the months, weeks, and days until Catalina's first book. Again, another Ilona Andrews series that has become a favorite of mine. But at this point it's not a surprise anymore. I like their writing, stories and characters. It just works for me. Every single character is adoringly real. And always entertaining. Makes me hope they never stop writing.
___________________________________
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
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Diamond Fire was a wonderful novella! Not every author can write a novella that doesn't make the reader feel like it was rushed or parts were missing. But as always the author delivered. And as a matter of fact the novella perfectly introduced the upcoming trilogy. A trilogy about Catalina. And I must confess I'm already hooked. This fantastic and magical world had me captivated from the very beginning.
I love this series so much!
Unsurprisingly I reread the entire Hidden Legacy trilogy in preparation for Diamond Fire. And boy am I glad I did! Everything was vibrant and fresh in my memory. Just in time to enjoy Catalina carrying her own novella. And she did it perfectly!
Catalina is not like Nevada. In fact she is a more quite, and serious personality. Maybe because she had to repress her magic her entire life. However, it seems like she is stretching her wings so to speak. And it's going to be a pleasure to see her experiment those powers. Naturally I can't wait to read more about her. Because she rocked this book!
I love mysteries!
In Diamond Fire Catalina skillfully solved a wonderfully entertaining mystery. Because Catalina worked for the family company for years, she definitely knew what she was doing. Granted she had seen Nevada work with clients over the years, but the way she handled herself was impressive. In fact she was professional, knowledgeable, smart and mature in handling the entire situation. I already know her stories will be brilliant.
Even though Diamond Fire introduced a huge cast with Rogan's family, the original cast from the trilogy was still present. Because of this, it was the PERFECT way of connecting Nevada's trilogy with the upcoming books about Catalina. It felt like a continuation. I thought the novella was very well done.
And I'm really excited!!
I'm honestly counting down the months, weeks, and days until Catalina's first book. Again, another Ilona Andrews series that has become a favorite of mine. But at this point it's not a surprise anymore. I like their writing, stories and characters. It just works for me. Every single character is adoringly real. And always entertaining. Makes me hope they never stop writing.
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I received a copy of this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
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August 1, 2019
Yes, it was a short tease of more to come --- seriously, whatever happened to those 1,000 page sequel books? Why is that only reserved to intellectual classic high fantasy stuff??
I'm into Catalina. Yes, I adored Nevada and Rogan but I can't wait for the new trilogy with her and the Alessandro Italian Count guy. I love the family and how she's different from Nevada, curious where it will all lead, can't wait.
Again this is a tease offering but it's a good short story, intellectually plotted, glorious ending, getting to know the sister more through the sister's head, and I totally dig Rogan's mother.
I'm into Catalina. Yes, I adored Nevada and Rogan but I can't wait for the new trilogy with her and the Alessandro Italian Count guy. I love the family and how she's different from Nevada, curious where it will all lead, can't wait.
Again this is a tease offering but it's a good short story, intellectually plotted, glorious ending, getting to know the sister more through the sister's head, and I totally dig Rogan's mother.
April 26, 2022
Diamond Fire is a transitional book, taking us from Nevada Baylor and Connor Rogan as the lead to Catalina Baylor. Don't worry, you get plenty of time with the Baylor family, similar to the first 3 books in the Hidden Legacy series, you just get a little more spot light shown on Catalina now...and wow, does she shine.
Nevada and Connor are getting married and all the relatives have come out of the woodwork. Someone has stolen something precious that Nevada is suppose to wear on her wedding day from Mrs. Rogan, Connor's mother. To keep Nevada's and Connor's day special and away from the family drama, Mrs. Rogan hires Catalina to uncover who has stolen the family heirloom.
I just can't get enough of the writing team Ilona Andrews! I loved this novella length story telling and of course they left me wanting more. This is a series that I will periodically re-read and its like coming home...if your family was packed full of magically superior prime beings, LOL...well you know what I mean. Check it out, its an amazing series.
I received this ARC copy of Diamond Fire from Avon Impulse - HarperCollins. This is my honest and voluntary review. Diamond Fire is set for publication November 6, 2018.
Written by: Ilona Andrews
On Sale Date: November 6, 2018,
ISBN 9780062878410, 0062878417
E-Book | 384 pages
Fiction / Romance / Paranormal
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Fire-H...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/diam...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/diam...
Want more check us out on Tome Tender Book Blog or on Facebook
Nevada and Connor are getting married and all the relatives have come out of the woodwork. Someone has stolen something precious that Nevada is suppose to wear on her wedding day from Mrs. Rogan, Connor's mother. To keep Nevada's and Connor's day special and away from the family drama, Mrs. Rogan hires Catalina to uncover who has stolen the family heirloom.
I just can't get enough of the writing team Ilona Andrews! I loved this novella length story telling and of course they left me wanting more. This is a series that I will periodically re-read and its like coming home...if your family was packed full of magically superior prime beings, LOL...well you know what I mean. Check it out, its an amazing series.
I received this ARC copy of Diamond Fire from Avon Impulse - HarperCollins. This is my honest and voluntary review. Diamond Fire is set for publication November 6, 2018.
Written by: Ilona Andrews
On Sale Date: November 6, 2018,
ISBN 9780062878410, 0062878417
E-Book | 384 pages
Fiction / Romance / Paranormal
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Fire-H...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/diam...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/diam...
Want more check us out on Tome Tender Book Blog or on Facebook
November 13, 2018
*4.5 stars*
The only thing I didn't like about this novella was that there wasn't 200 pages more. I didn't want it to end!
I love, love, love the writing couple of Ilona Andrews, and I think their Hidden Legacy series is their best work. I rarely preorder books, but I preordered Diamond Fire as soon as it was available.
The story was a lovely transition from a Nevada-book to a Catalina-book, and I need a full length book ASAP. Ilona Andrews can't write fast enough to satisfy me.
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The only thing I didn't like about this novella was that there wasn't 200 pages more. I didn't want it to end!
I love, love, love the writing couple of Ilona Andrews, and I think their Hidden Legacy series is their best work. I rarely preorder books, but I preordered Diamond Fire as soon as it was available.
The story was a lovely transition from a Nevada-book to a Catalina-book, and I need a full length book ASAP. Ilona Andrews can't write fast enough to satisfy me.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
November 6, 2018
Loved it! I cannot wait for Catalina’s adventures to begin! I always thought Nevada’s abilities were cool but Catalina’s definitely take the cake. There’s so much potential, it makes me giddy!
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I’m literally breathing into a paper bag right now. Like, seriously. I’m hyperventilating. I’m so excited!
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I’m literally breathing into a paper bag right now. Like, seriously. I’m hyperventilating. I’m so excited!
September 18, 2019
A fun, and well written novella with action, mystery, betrayal, and lots of drama!
This novella was perfection to me! A wonderful end to the first trilogy in the Hidden Legacy series, whilst setting it up nicely for the next book about Catalina! ❤️
Lets face it, sometimes novellas can feel a little unsatisfying to read, but Diamond Fire was so well written so it felt anything but that way. Only this duo could combine a big family event, with a jewellery theft, attempted murder, and blackmail amongst other things, and weave it all together so masterfully!
I love the character of Nevada, and even though I was a little sad that her story came to an conclusion, I ended up loving Catalina too. Her POV was totally different to Nevada's, and she had a different voice, which was great! I cant wait to read more about Catalina's journey 👍
This book was drama, drama, drama! It could have been a soap opera, but I loved it! I loved that the Baylor family still featured heavily, and the contrast between their tight-knit, loving family and the Rogan family was huge!
I've stormed through this series, and now there is only Sapphire Flames to go! 😯 So even though I'm really excited to read that, I am sad that I have almost caught up!
A must read if you enjoyed the first three books in the Hidden Legacy series!
This novella was perfection to me! A wonderful end to the first trilogy in the Hidden Legacy series, whilst setting it up nicely for the next book about Catalina! ❤️
Lets face it, sometimes novellas can feel a little unsatisfying to read, but Diamond Fire was so well written so it felt anything but that way. Only this duo could combine a big family event, with a jewellery theft, attempted murder, and blackmail amongst other things, and weave it all together so masterfully!
I love the character of Nevada, and even though I was a little sad that her story came to an conclusion, I ended up loving Catalina too. Her POV was totally different to Nevada's, and she had a different voice, which was great! I cant wait to read more about Catalina's journey 👍
This book was drama, drama, drama! It could have been a soap opera, but I loved it! I loved that the Baylor family still featured heavily, and the contrast between their tight-knit, loving family and the Rogan family was huge!
I've stormed through this series, and now there is only Sapphire Flames to go! 😯 So even though I'm really excited to read that, I am sad that I have almost caught up!
A must read if you enjoyed the first three books in the Hidden Legacy series!
November 7, 2018
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I loved this novella! Absolutely loved it! It is hard not to gush over how much I loved this book so I am just going to go with it. I adore the Hidden Legacy series and have read the original three books two or three times each already so I was really excited to learn that the series would be continuing. I was really excited to see this world through Catalina's eyes and I was not disappointed. I had so much fun with this story.
I love Nevada and Mad Rogan but I really like the rest of Nevada's family as well so I am more than okay with the torch being passed along to Catalina. I like Catalina even more after reading this story. I felt like I knew her before I got started with this novella but the amount of character development in this short piece was extraordinary. In this story, readers actually see more of Mad Rogan than Nevada which I think worked perfectly since it gave Catalina a chance to really stand on her own for the story. I also fell in love with Rogan's mom. She was amazing in this story and I hope we get to see a whole lot more of her in future books.
There is a mystery that needs to be solved on top the upcoming wedding. There is a big group of Rogan's extended family in town for the wedding and causing a whole lot of trouble at the same time. This is not a very likable group overall and it was hard to trust most of them. It was a lot of fun to watch Catalina navigate such a complicated group of individuals and get to the bottom of it all.
I would highly recommend this story to others. I think that it could work as a stand-alone but I think that it really works better when read in series order. This series is amazing and you don't want to miss any of the books anyway so I would suggest starting with Burn for Me. I can't wait to read more from this fantastic series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
This was beyond amazing! It's a shame that I can only give it 5 stars since it clearly deserves a few bonus stars. Ilona Andrews packed more story and character development into this novella than most books with 5 times as many pages. Fans will not want to miss this one!
Before Reading
Even pretending that I can do anything but read this one right away is just silly. I can't wait to read more about this group of characters!
ARC provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
I loved this novella! Absolutely loved it! It is hard not to gush over how much I loved this book so I am just going to go with it. I adore the Hidden Legacy series and have read the original three books two or three times each already so I was really excited to learn that the series would be continuing. I was really excited to see this world through Catalina's eyes and I was not disappointed. I had so much fun with this story.
I love Nevada and Mad Rogan but I really like the rest of Nevada's family as well so I am more than okay with the torch being passed along to Catalina. I like Catalina even more after reading this story. I felt like I knew her before I got started with this novella but the amount of character development in this short piece was extraordinary. In this story, readers actually see more of Mad Rogan than Nevada which I think worked perfectly since it gave Catalina a chance to really stand on her own for the story. I also fell in love with Rogan's mom. She was amazing in this story and I hope we get to see a whole lot more of her in future books.
There is a mystery that needs to be solved on top the upcoming wedding. There is a big group of Rogan's extended family in town for the wedding and causing a whole lot of trouble at the same time. This is not a very likable group overall and it was hard to trust most of them. It was a lot of fun to watch Catalina navigate such a complicated group of individuals and get to the bottom of it all.
I would highly recommend this story to others. I think that it could work as a stand-alone but I think that it really works better when read in series order. This series is amazing and you don't want to miss any of the books anyway so I would suggest starting with Burn for Me. I can't wait to read more from this fantastic series!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss.
Initial Thoughts
This was beyond amazing! It's a shame that I can only give it 5 stars since it clearly deserves a few bonus stars. Ilona Andrews packed more story and character development into this novella than most books with 5 times as many pages. Fans will not want to miss this one!
Before Reading
Even pretending that I can do anything but read this one right away is just silly. I can't wait to read more about this group of characters!
ARC provided by the publisher via Edelweiss.
February 6, 2019
An easy five stars. I know I am a fan but even so how do these two authors do it? Every book is a gem, even the novellas like this one.
At last Nevada and Rogan are actually getting married and they take a back seat in this book as Catalina steps up in the role of wedding planner/detective. On one hand she is organising bouquets and seating arrangements while at the same time preventing all the wedding guests being poisoned and trying to find a missing tiara. The authors are obviously grooming her for her own series and her magical abilities start to become truly amazing.
So it was a short but very sweet read and roll on the next one!!!
At last Nevada and Rogan are actually getting married and they take a back seat in this book as Catalina steps up in the role of wedding planner/detective. On one hand she is organising bouquets and seating arrangements while at the same time preventing all the wedding guests being poisoned and trying to find a missing tiara. The authors are obviously grooming her for her own series and her magical abilities start to become truly amazing.
So it was a short but very sweet read and roll on the next one!!!
June 9, 2019
Re-read by audio June 3rd 2019.
Even better the second time around! I wonder if Emily Rankin will be the narrator for Sapphire Flames? Renee Raudman did the prologue because it was Nevada's POV but as soon as it switched to Catalina, Emily Rankin stepped in. Her voice suited Catalina. Performed a little quieter and shy at the beginning where you could tell she was a little unsure of herself, but became more confident as the story went on.
Original e-copy review:
I loved the first three books of the Hidden Legacy series, so I was a little worried the series ended with book three. To be honest, it ended in a great place, but of course I wanted more, because it’s simply amazing! We begin with a little more of Rogan and Nevada (yes!); the prologue from Nevada’s POV, but shift gears and get Catalina’s, Nevada’s sister, POV. Catalina is smart and powerful, but a little afraid to use her power, and I can already tell I’m going to love her journey!
If you haven’t read the first three books, stop now, because there are details here that would spoil the prior books.
Nevada and Rogan are getting married, but the small wedding the wanted just isn’t in the cards. A much larger affair must happen due to family and social obligations, and somehow Catalina and Arabella, Nevada’s younger sisters, have become the wedding planners. Nevada may or may not have become a bit of a bridezilla here, lol. Not because she wants extravagance, just because some of her choices aren’t what a bride marrying into House Rogan “should” be, and she’s kind of stubborn. Good times, funny times, and it all makes me smile. During “normal” wedding drama, a family heirloom typically worn by the Ramirez (Rogan’s maternal family) bride’s goes missing and Mrs. Rogan (Connor Rogan’s mother) enlists the help of eighteen-year-old Catalina to track it down. Catalina has been working for the family business for some time so she’s no stranger to investigations. Plus, she’s a Prime magic user and her talents are especially valuable in this investigation even though she’s a little hesitant to use them.
Catalina’s gifts were showcased previously, and they are no joke! I can understand why Catalina would be so hesitant to use them, but I’m thrilled she’s testing/trying them out to gain experience and control. She’s amazing with this investigation and I loved the big reveal at the end. I’ve long been a fan of Agatha Christie mysteries! I could always count on the big reveal at the end with all the relevant parties present, and this felt a little similar.
From the first page I was addicted! Ilona Andrews’ talents of storytelling are in a class above most. I love the Baylor family dynamic, they have fierce loyalty to each other, but aren’t afraid to tease or deal out reality checks when necessary. The banter between them cracked me up! Catalina is quiet and reserved, as she’s been taught with her brand of magic, but I can see her coming out of her shell and I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Avon Impulve via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Even better the second time around! I wonder if Emily Rankin will be the narrator for Sapphire Flames? Renee Raudman did the prologue because it was Nevada's POV but as soon as it switched to Catalina, Emily Rankin stepped in. Her voice suited Catalina. Performed a little quieter and shy at the beginning where you could tell she was a little unsure of herself, but became more confident as the story went on.
Original e-copy review:
I loved the first three books of the Hidden Legacy series, so I was a little worried the series ended with book three. To be honest, it ended in a great place, but of course I wanted more, because it’s simply amazing! We begin with a little more of Rogan and Nevada (yes!); the prologue from Nevada’s POV, but shift gears and get Catalina’s, Nevada’s sister, POV. Catalina is smart and powerful, but a little afraid to use her power, and I can already tell I’m going to love her journey!
If you haven’t read the first three books, stop now, because there are details here that would spoil the prior books.
Nevada and Rogan are getting married, but the small wedding the wanted just isn’t in the cards. A much larger affair must happen due to family and social obligations, and somehow Catalina and Arabella, Nevada’s younger sisters, have become the wedding planners. Nevada may or may not have become a bit of a bridezilla here, lol. Not because she wants extravagance, just because some of her choices aren’t what a bride marrying into House Rogan “should” be, and she’s kind of stubborn. Good times, funny times, and it all makes me smile. During “normal” wedding drama, a family heirloom typically worn by the Ramirez (Rogan’s maternal family) bride’s goes missing and Mrs. Rogan (Connor Rogan’s mother) enlists the help of eighteen-year-old Catalina to track it down. Catalina has been working for the family business for some time so she’s no stranger to investigations. Plus, she’s a Prime magic user and her talents are especially valuable in this investigation even though she’s a little hesitant to use them.
Catalina’s gifts were showcased previously, and they are no joke! I can understand why Catalina would be so hesitant to use them, but I’m thrilled she’s testing/trying them out to gain experience and control. She’s amazing with this investigation and I loved the big reveal at the end. I’ve long been a fan of Agatha Christie mysteries! I could always count on the big reveal at the end with all the relevant parties present, and this felt a little similar.
From the first page I was addicted! Ilona Andrews’ talents of storytelling are in a class above most. I love the Baylor family dynamic, they have fierce loyalty to each other, but aren’t afraid to tease or deal out reality checks when necessary. The banter between them cracked me up! Catalina is quiet and reserved, as she’s been taught with her brand of magic, but I can see her coming out of her shell and I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Avon Impulve via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
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November 2, 2022
An entertaining transition into the second book arc and Catalina‘s PoV when she investigates a theft and an attempted poisoning in the days leading up to Nevada and Rogan‘s wedding - deftly uncovering some family secrets along the way.
Often novellas like these center on the romance of it all - this is not the case here; the wedding serves as backdrop for Catalin‘s character arc, which I was grateful for. It made for a fun, fast read and didn’t get corny along the way. Also, I find descriptions of wedding planning and its inane details tedious and was relieved they were only occasionally mentioned.
I will say that the entire extended family was confusing and the info dump of characters at the beginning was quickly forgotten; however, the partial family tree helped. (I worked out there is probably a mistake in my ebook though: I think the same person is once called Markel and then Mirkel. As there is also a Mikel, this only helped to confuse me more.)
All in all, I am looking forward to Catalina’s books. I know I will miss Rogan and Nevada though.
Often novellas like these center on the romance of it all - this is not the case here; the wedding serves as backdrop for Catalin‘s character arc, which I was grateful for. It made for a fun, fast read and didn’t get corny along the way. Also, I find descriptions of wedding planning and its inane details tedious and was relieved they were only occasionally mentioned.
I will say that the entire extended family was confusing and the info dump of characters at the beginning was quickly forgotten; however, the partial family tree helped. (I worked out there is probably a mistake in my ebook though: I think the same person is once called Markel and then Mirkel. As there is also a Mikel, this only helped to confuse me more.)
All in all, I am looking forward to Catalina’s books. I know I will miss Rogan and Nevada though.
Want to read
April 5, 2018No plot?
No cover?
Nothing?
*preorder right away*
No cover?
Nothing?
*preorder right away*
September 8, 2018
Another absolute gem! RTC :D
July 3, 2019
Meh. I liked Catalina but didn't care about the story. I think you can pass this novella and read the next book without a hitch.
November 24, 2018
I'm usually not much of a fan of these interim stories. Not because they aren't good but because I'm looking forward to the next novel more. Same with the Kate Daniels series of which I haven't read a single interim short story yet.
However, I was told that Nevada's and Connor's story is over after the first three books we already have and that this was therefore the last chance to see a bit more of them so of course I had to.
The story is that Nevada and Connor are finally getting married but, as is usual, the extended family is giving everyone a headache. Add to that the fact that due to their House status (especially House Rogan), they can't just do a little private ceremony.
Not just the flower arrangements are a challenge, there is also someone trying to kill all the wedding guests and a family heirloom the bride is supposed to wear goes missing.
In this case, however, it's not Nevada investigating but her little sister Catilina. It's the authors' way of gently easing us fans into the series' focus shifting onto her and I thought it worked very well. We get more of Connor than Nevada here and both are only in the periphery to keep us connected but that also meant that I still felt "at home". Plus, Catilina, despite being younger, was a great MC here and the family (grandma Frida, Leon and the others) have always been very important to the series. We get them all, here, too. So it's all good.
Moreover, what I always adore about these books, apart from the fantastic setting with an interesting magical setting, is the humour. I quoted a few of my favourite scenes that made me burst out laughing (in public) yesterday. It gets me every time.
And who doesn't like a wedding and its preparation combined with a murder mystery and crime story?! The only thing I was sorry about was that the actual wedding was cut so short, hammering home that it no longer is Nevada's and Connor's story.
Still, I have yet to find anything by these authors that I don't love. Bedazzling indeed.
However, I was told that Nevada's and Connor's story is over after the first three books we already have and that this was therefore the last chance to see a bit more of them so of course I had to.
The story is that Nevada and Connor are finally getting married but, as is usual, the extended family is giving everyone a headache. Add to that the fact that due to their House status (especially House Rogan), they can't just do a little private ceremony.
Not just the flower arrangements are a challenge, there is also someone trying to kill all the wedding guests and a family heirloom the bride is supposed to wear goes missing.
In this case, however, it's not Nevada investigating but her little sister Catilina. It's the authors' way of gently easing us fans into the series' focus shifting onto her and I thought it worked very well. We get more of Connor than Nevada here and both are only in the periphery to keep us connected but that also meant that I still felt "at home". Plus, Catilina, despite being younger, was a great MC here and the family (grandma Frida, Leon and the others) have always been very important to the series. We get them all, here, too. So it's all good.
Moreover, what I always adore about these books, apart from the fantastic setting with an interesting magical setting, is the humour. I quoted a few of my favourite scenes that made me burst out laughing (in public) yesterday. It gets me every time.
And who doesn't like a wedding and its preparation combined with a murder mystery and crime story?! The only thing I was sorry about was that the actual wedding was cut so short, hammering home that it no longer is Nevada's and Connor's story.
Still, I have yet to find anything by these authors that I don't love. Bedazzling indeed.
February 12, 2019
A fun novella in the Hidden Legacy series. I listened to this one. It is from Catalina (Nevada's sister) POV and the voice was a bit hard to get used to at first. I am used to Renee Raudman for this series and she did start out the story, but Emily Rankin read the rest as Catalina, which makes sense. Other than that, the story was enjoyable and interesting to see things from another POV character. I hope there are more. This audio book is 4 hours and it went fast!
December 27, 2018

If you have been following me for a while, then you know about my obsession with Ilona Andrews, the husband-and-wife team that gave us Kate Daniels, The Edge series, and of course, Hidden Legacy. In this novella, Ilona Andrews gives a glimpse into the future of House Baylor. The last time we saw House Baylor, they have just successfully completed their trials. Diamond Fire, bridges the events of Wildfire to the new spin off series. And let me tell you that the new series is going to be fantastic.
In this book, we finally get to be in Catalina's head as she tries to recover a stolen crown belonging to Rogan's mom. And I'm already in love with her! I've always loved her character in Hidden Legacy so being able to see the world in her point of view was a treat. One of the best things about the original trilogy was the relationship between the sisters especially between Catalina and Arabella. I love their fights and arguments, and their loyalty towards each other. Ilona Andrews captured the sister dynamics well and I can't wait to read more of it.
This book also introduces us to Rogan's mother. She was already mentioned in the original trilogy but this is the first time we get to meet her. And I must say that I'm intrigued. Who is this woman who raised Mad Rogan, the Butcher of Merida?
This book was shorter than most of IA's books but it's no less compelling. It gives us a taste of what's to come and I for one, cannot wait for more of Catalina and the House of Baylor!
I will read anything and everything that IA puts out.
YES, I will read even their grocery list because goddamn, these two can weave a captivating story!
If you have been following me for a while, then you know about my obsession with Ilona Andrews, the husband-and-wife team that gave us Kate Daniels, The Edge series, and of course, Hidden Legacy. In this novella, Ilona Andrews gives a glimpse into the future of House Baylor. The last time we saw House Baylor, they have just successfully completed their trials. Diamond Fire, bridges the events of Wildfire to the new spin off series. And let me tell you that the new series is going to be fantastic.
In this book, we finally get to be in Catalina's head as she tries to recover a stolen crown belonging to Rogan's mom. And I'm already in love with her! I've always loved her character in Hidden Legacy so being able to see the world in her point of view was a treat. One of the best things about the original trilogy was the relationship between the sisters especially between Catalina and Arabella. I love their fights and arguments, and their loyalty towards each other. Ilona Andrews captured the sister dynamics well and I can't wait to read more of it.
This book also introduces us to Rogan's mother. She was already mentioned in the original trilogy but this is the first time we get to meet her. And I must say that I'm intrigued. Who is this woman who raised Mad Rogan, the Butcher of Merida?
This book was shorter than most of IA's books but it's no less compelling. It gives us a taste of what's to come and I for one, cannot wait for more of Catalina and the House of Baylor!
I will read anything and everything that IA puts out.
YES, I will read even their grocery list because goddamn, these two can weave a captivating story!
November 2, 2018
DIAMOND FIRE is a novella set in the Hidden Legacy world that Ilona Andrews has created. I was really excited about reading this story because we get to see more of Nevada and Connor. However, in addition to their wedding preparation, there’s also a bit more about another character named Catalina. Although she is a key player in the series, I never expected to see more of her in this story. But I think it was a nice touch to have more of her thoughts in this book. I would have also loved to see more moments between Nevada and Connor, but we do get a heady dose in the beginning that certainly made me smile.
I would definitely recommend this series to any lovers of Urban Fantasy or Ilona Andrews. There’s some great worldbuilding as well as a solid romance too, so it has a very well-rounded out storyline and cast. Andrews delivers an upbeat short story that I think readers will find intriguing, especially if you are a loyal fan of the series already. DIAMOND FIRE burns hot and doesn’t disappoint, so do yourself a favor and pick up this book!
Read this review at Fresh Fiction
I would definitely recommend this series to any lovers of Urban Fantasy or Ilona Andrews. There’s some great worldbuilding as well as a solid romance too, so it has a very well-rounded out storyline and cast. Andrews delivers an upbeat short story that I think readers will find intriguing, especially if you are a loyal fan of the series already. DIAMOND FIRE burns hot and doesn’t disappoint, so do yourself a favor and pick up this book!
Read this review at Fresh Fiction
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