Magic Stars by Ilona Andrews

Published: December 8th, 2015

by: NYLA

Series: Kate Daniels #8.5 | Grey Wolf #1

Genres: Adult Fiction, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Mythology, Short Story

Format: ebook

Source: Purchased

My Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Scarred, solitary Derek Gaunt has separated from his Pack, and istruly a lone wolf. With no family he answers to no one; but is fiercely loyal to a chosen few. So, when several of those close to him are murdered, he’ll stop at nothing to hunt their killer through the magic-drenched streets of Atlanta.

Never one to be left on the sidelines, equally determined—some might say stubborn—Julie Lennart-Olsen soon joins in his pursuit; and what began as revenge turns into a race to save the city. Their search pits them against powers they never imagined and magic so old, it predates history. It may cost Derek his life, but there are things for which even he would risk everything.

 

Review

This novella packs quite the punch. Or, I may be biased because I love this world and these characters. I never knew just how much darkness is inside Derek. I mean, we’ve gotten some of his history from Kate’s POV in previous books, but to actually be inside his head is something. And this is only a fraction of it! I really enjoyed this, and wish that it had been longer. If Ilona Andrews is trying to sell me this spin-off, I’m down. 

As you know, Derek is no longer with the Pack. He’s a lone wolf in that respect, but he’s not alone really. He has Kate, Curran, and Julie. He hero worships Curran, Kate is like a bossy older sister, and I’m just not sure what to make of his relationship with Julie. She used to be viewed as a little sister, but she’s growing into an amazing young woman and…..boy it’s gonna be hard to keep thinking of her as his sister. Derek and Julie end up working together when they come across a murdered family and the ones who killed them. There’s a magic rock to be had, and an evil warlock is keen on getting and using it by any means necessary. This novella is a glimpse into Derek’s darkness, and Julie’s growing power. I really enjoyed it, but want more.

Julie is also spending time with Roland, Kate’s all powerful Father, and it has me on edge. Julie tries to explain why she’s doing it to Derek, but I feel like Roland is aware of her motives and is really messing up her head. Julie has no idea what she’s getting into. Or does she? Only time will tell, and I just hope Roland doesn’t turn her against Kate. That would be bad. She shares the blood, so if Julie becomes a weapon and sides with Roland, Kate doesn’t stand a chance. Julie is also training with the witches, so I just don’t know where all this is heading. I’m scared, guys! 

Overall, great novella. Derek and Julie kick butt and save the day. I am just ready for the next book, and if this is to become another series, I’m looking forward to that one as well. If you are a fan of this series, then I think reading this would be beneficial. Especially, if you love Derek and want to know what his struggles are, and take a peak at his thoughts on Julie and their friendship. I love their banter, although Derek pisses her off on purpose because he has to draw a line between them. I’m pretty sure he won’t be able to keep that line between them for long. Julie is not that scared little girl we first me in Magic Burns anymore. Definitely recommend reading this one!

 

Also in this series: Magic Bites | Magic Burns/Magic Strikes | Magic Bleeds/Curran’s POV | Magic Slays | Magic Rises | Gunmetal Magic/Magic Dreams/Magic Gifts | Magic Breaks/Magic Shifts