Gunmetal Magic

This is the latest novel set in the world of Kate Daniels, and is from Andrea’s perspective (you know the gun-slinging kick-ass bouda who is Kate’s best friend). If you have never heard of Kate Daniels, stop now and pick up Magic Bites (Book 1) before I drop too many spoilers on you. This brilliant series, for those who don’t know it already, is based in Atlanta USA in a future world where magic waves wash over the planet sporadically disrupting all technology, which has completely reworked the society causing new factions to rise such as shapeshifters, necromancers (vampire navigators) and witches. Gunmetal Magic takes off a few months after Book 5 (Magic Slays) with Andrea investigating a series of strange murders for a Pack business owned by none other than her smoking hot ex, Raphael. Forced to work alongside Raphael while still in turmoil over her feelings for him, Andrea struggles to whittle down her suspects while maintaining her distance. As things take a sinister turn, with a distinctly Egyptian theme weaving through the story from the deadly rattlesnake venom used to murder 4 lethal shapeshifters, stolen ancient artefacts and the appearance of Ammit the Egyptian demon who devours souls, Andrea will have to resolve her issues with Raphael to take down an ancient evil cult hell bent on destroying the world. All in all, just another day for Cutting Edge Inc.

 

This is the first full novel written in this universe that is NOT written from Kate’s perspective, which made for an interesting read. Like all her other books, the story is written in the first person so the internal monologue of the protagonist was quite clear and definitely held a different flavour to it. Andrea is in some ways a gentler character than Kate, and she always seems to be more connected to her humanity despite turning into a were-hyena when provoked. Although this is Andrea’s book, Kate is still there, though she’s running her own little investigation and there are still plenty of Kate and Curran moments. The thing I love best about Ilona Andrews novels is the balance between the seriousness of the characters actions and their sarcastic responses or incredulous responses to either idiots, the bad guys or just to other friendly characters cause they can. This livens up the characters and makes them become more real to me which draws me deeper into the story. Like in all Ilona Andrew’s novels, there is a nice line of humour running through the story and dialogue, and there are some truly golden scenes depicted. My favourite scene definitely had to include the entire house upholstered in vivid, psychotic grape-purple ultra-long shag carpet. There are plenty of other great scenes, but that one really sticks out the most in my mind and still makes me giggle when I think about it.

 

There is an added extra at the end of the novel, a short story “Magic Gifts” from Kate’s Perspective which gives you some background on the draugr Andrea and co go after in this book. This story is actually happening sort of parallel to Gunmetal Magic, but obviously ends sooner than the novel so it’s probably best to read the short story first so it’s chronological. This short story is a nice little Kate and Curran story focusing on northern mythology that is still the same crazy fun ride despite its short length.

 

I absolutely loved this novel and attached short story just as much as any of the other books in this series, it was well thought out, funny and the mythology was intriguing. I could honestly not put it down, and actually stopped reading another book just to immerse myself in the wonderful world of Kate Daniels and get my fix. If you like urban fantasy or paranormal romance this series is a have to go out and grab immediately. ~ Chrissi