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Available
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HarperCollins
Description
Fantasy. Fiction. Romance. HTML: From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrew comes an enthralling new trilogy set in the Hidden Legacy world, where magic means power, and family bloodlines are the new currency of society... In a world where magic is the key to power and wealth, Catalina Baylor is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, and the Head of her House. Catalina has always been afraid to use her unique powers, but when her friend's mother and sister are murdered, Catalina risks her reputation and safety to unravel the mystery. But behind the scenes powerful forces are at work, and one of them is Alessandro Sagredo, the Italian Prime who was once Catalina's teenage crush. Dangerous and unpredictable, Alessandro's true motives are unclear, but he's drawn to Catalina like a moth to a flame. To help her friend, Catalina must test the limits of her extraordinary powers, but doing so may cost her both her House�??and her heart.… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member Cats57
I'm going to be giving this book an immediate re-read. I'm afraid that I was so looking forward to this book that I gobbled it up in one huge bite and missed some nuances.
No, I am not going to tell you precisely what Catalina and company will be fighting nor am I going to hint at her relationship
I can tell you without giving anything away, is that Catalina and Alessandro are very much a younger version of Nevada and Mad Rogan, even the story-line was similar. Although, I have to admit that this was a bit more heart-pounding than most of Nevada's books!
This book is part a trilogy, and although you will be disappointed to be left on a bit of a cliff-hanger, it sounds as if the next two books will be exciting. I am assuming that the following two books will also be about Catalina and Alessandro and the horrors that they found in this book. I would find it unusual for the Andrews team to have taken out all the bad guys this easily!
I was happy to see some of the secondary characters from Nevadas story to find their way into this trilogy and I hope we get to see more of these people. Matilda and Zeus do make an appearance!
Although the characters were a little immature for my taste, I was able to get past it and enjoy the read. It will be interesting to see Catalina mature into her full potential. All in all, this was a great book and will be one that I put on my comfort/re-read shelf, and I sure will be recommending this to some of my reading buddies.
*ARC supplied by publisher.
No, I am not going to tell you precisely what Catalina and company will be fighting nor am I going to hint at her relationship
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with the egotist Alessandro -but it's good...trust me!I can tell you without giving anything away, is that Catalina and Alessandro are very much a younger version of Nevada and Mad Rogan, even the story-line was similar. Although, I have to admit that this was a bit more heart-pounding than most of Nevada's books!
This book is part a trilogy, and although you will be disappointed to be left on a bit of a cliff-hanger, it sounds as if the next two books will be exciting. I am assuming that the following two books will also be about Catalina and Alessandro and the horrors that they found in this book. I would find it unusual for the Andrews team to have taken out all the bad guys this easily!
I was happy to see some of the secondary characters from Nevadas story to find their way into this trilogy and I hope we get to see more of these people. Matilda and Zeus do make an appearance!
Although the characters were a little immature for my taste, I was able to get past it and enjoy the read. It will be interesting to see Catalina mature into her full potential. All in all, this was a great book and will be one that I put on my comfort/re-read shelf, and I sure will be recommending this to some of my reading buddies.
*ARC supplied by publisher.
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LibraryThing member krau0098
This is the fourth book in the Hidden Legacy series, but the first book in Catalina’s story (which is supposed to be a trilogy within this series). I really loved this start to Catalina's story. This is such a well done world with amazing characters. There's a lot of action and intrigue and a bit
Catalina Baylor is now the Head of House Baylor and a Prime in her own right. For the last year House Baylor has been protected by their status as a new House, but that’s about to end. To make things even more complicated Catalina is asked to assist another House and in doing so ends up drawn into what could potentially be a war between houses.
This is a complicated world that I really enjoy. While I wasn’t a huge fan of the novella featuring Cataline that preceded this story, I really loved this story. Catalina’s magic is unique and intriguing and she was a strong heroine facing a lot of challenges. I also enjoyed Alessandro as a character. He is unpredictable and capable, I am intrigued to see where things go between him and Catalina.
Overall I loved this story and it was a very nice start to a new storyline in the Hidden Legacy series. I would recommend this whole series to those who enjoy urban fantasy with solid world-building, unique characters, action, and some light romance.
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of romance as well. Catalina Baylor is now the Head of House Baylor and a Prime in her own right. For the last year House Baylor has been protected by their status as a new House, but that’s about to end. To make things even more complicated Catalina is asked to assist another House and in doing so ends up drawn into what could potentially be a war between houses.
This is a complicated world that I really enjoy. While I wasn’t a huge fan of the novella featuring Cataline that preceded this story, I really loved this story. Catalina’s magic is unique and intriguing and she was a strong heroine facing a lot of challenges. I also enjoyed Alessandro as a character. He is unpredictable and capable, I am intrigued to see where things go between him and Catalina.
Overall I loved this story and it was a very nice start to a new storyline in the Hidden Legacy series. I would recommend this whole series to those who enjoy urban fantasy with solid world-building, unique characters, action, and some light romance.
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LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
There is something special about a new Ilona Andrews book. When I get one in my hands, I feel like a kid a Christmas. That kid has no idea what is under the tree but they know that it is going to be good. And it was good. So very good. This series is one that I treasure so my expectations were
This is the fourth full-length book in the Hidden Legacy series which follows the Baylor family. The first three books were told from Nevada's point of view. Catalina took center stage in the novella, Diamond Fire, and kept the lead in this book. I loved Nevada but I am finding that I really like Catalina as well. Catalina is definitely her own person and often approaches things differently than Nevada might. I really enjoyed seeing this wonderful family from a different perspective.
I loved the characters in this book. I already loved the members of the Baylor family from the earlier books in the series but I always enjoy getting to know them just a little better. I really liked getting to know Catalina in detail. It was fun to see her use her powers and I have a feeling that we are going to get to see them develop quite a bit in future books. Alessandro was a bit of a mystery. I liked the fact that it was really hard to tell whose side he is on but he always seemed to show up exactly when he was needed. The chemistry between Catalina and Alessandro was pretty much off the charts so I am looking forward to seeing how things progress between the pair in future books.
This story was exciting and the mystery was very well done. There is no shortage of action in this story as I have come to expect from the series. The mystery was fairly complex and Catalina was forced to juggle many things while she worked to get to the bottom of things. I really liked that there were a few larger plot points that were left open and I look forward to seeing where things go in future books.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This book was everything that I had hoped that it would be and even just a little bit more. I can't wait to read this one again and again!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Avon Books via NetGalley / Edelweiss.
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really high when I sat down to read this newest installment and every single one of those expectations were met. This story is a gift and I am very glad that the writing pair of Ilona Andrews were able to share it with their fans.This is the fourth full-length book in the Hidden Legacy series which follows the Baylor family. The first three books were told from Nevada's point of view. Catalina took center stage in the novella, Diamond Fire, and kept the lead in this book. I loved Nevada but I am finding that I really like Catalina as well. Catalina is definitely her own person and often approaches things differently than Nevada might. I really enjoyed seeing this wonderful family from a different perspective.
I loved the characters in this book. I already loved the members of the Baylor family from the earlier books in the series but I always enjoy getting to know them just a little better. I really liked getting to know Catalina in detail. It was fun to see her use her powers and I have a feeling that we are going to get to see them develop quite a bit in future books. Alessandro was a bit of a mystery. I liked the fact that it was really hard to tell whose side he is on but he always seemed to show up exactly when he was needed. The chemistry between Catalina and Alessandro was pretty much off the charts so I am looking forward to seeing how things progress between the pair in future books.
This story was exciting and the mystery was very well done. There is no shortage of action in this story as I have come to expect from the series. The mystery was fairly complex and Catalina was forced to juggle many things while she worked to get to the bottom of things. I really liked that there were a few larger plot points that were left open and I look forward to seeing where things go in future books.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This book was everything that I had hoped that it would be and even just a little bit more. I can't wait to read this one again and again!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Avon Books via NetGalley / Edelweiss.
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LibraryThing member Narilka
In a world where magical families engage in open warfare for power and wealth, Catalina Baylor is in a precarious position. The three year restriction that protects newly formed Houses from the violence of House warfare is about to expire. As Head of her House, Catalina must strive to secure
Sapphire Flames is the fourth book in the Hidden Legacy series by Ilona Andrews and the start of Catalina's trilogy. This was over-the-top fun! I think it's safe to say that if you're a fan of the series you are going to enjoy this book. I know I did.
I like Catalina a lot. She's such a fascinating character. Her magic is so different that it's been great to see how she's learned to use it in new and surprising ways. She's really turned into a kick-ass heroine, even if it freaks her out most of the time. I think it's knowing that she has those jitters inside while still having the courage to get the job done that makes her both relatable and a character you can admire.
The mystery takes a lot of unexpected twists and turns and is quite satisfying. I also really enjoyed how many more magical abilities are explored in this installment. About the only thing I wasn't completely sold on is Alessandro. He feels a tad too much like Rogan-lite at the moment. I'm hoping his unique personality will come through more as the series progresses.
Overall this was a solid start to Catalina's trilogy. I love the Baylor family. I can't wait for book 5.
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strategic alliances to strengthen House Baylor's position, keep her House financially stable and, more importantly, keep everyone alive in the process - all while while acting as lead investigator in the family's private investigations business. When her friend's mother and sister are murdered, Catalina puts everything on the line to help House Etterson get to the bottom of a dangerous situation.Sapphire Flames is the fourth book in the Hidden Legacy series by Ilona Andrews and the start of Catalina's trilogy. This was over-the-top fun! I think it's safe to say that if you're a fan of the series you are going to enjoy this book. I know I did.
I like Catalina a lot. She's such a fascinating character. Her magic is so different that it's been great to see how she's learned to use it in new and surprising ways. She's really turned into a kick-ass heroine, even if it freaks her out most of the time. I think it's knowing that she has those jitters inside while still having the courage to get the job done that makes her both relatable and a character you can admire.
The mystery takes a lot of unexpected twists and turns and is quite satisfying. I also really enjoyed how many more magical abilities are explored in this installment. About the only thing I wasn't completely sold on is Alessandro. He feels a tad too much like Rogan-lite at the moment. I'm hoping his unique personality will come through more as the series progresses.
Overall this was a solid start to Catalina's trilogy. I love the Baylor family. I can't wait for book 5.
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LibraryThing member dlynch
Ilona Andrews heats things up with SAPPHIRE FLAMES (Hidden Legacy #4). In this story, Head of her House/Prime Catalina Baylor investigates the murder of a friend’s mother and sister. Concurrently, she is trying to figure out the motives of her teenage crush Italian Prime Alessandro Sagredo. This
Catalina and Alessandro first met when the Baylors were applying to become a house. Alessandro was Catalina’s judge. The two have sizzling chemistry. We discover more about Alessandro. He is not what you would expect. I love how much Catalina has grown since the series started. The once shy girl is becoming a worthy leader. I like that she is coming into her own. She is developing into a strong heroine with good values.
I enjoyed the plot. It was mysterious with numerous twists. The politics involved with the houses are interesting. SAPPHIRE FLAMES is a thought-provoking addition to the Hidden Legacy series. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to fans of crime mystery urban fantasy. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
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contemporary urban fantasy is suitable for adults.Catalina and Alessandro first met when the Baylors were applying to become a house. Alessandro was Catalina’s judge. The two have sizzling chemistry. We discover more about Alessandro. He is not what you would expect. I love how much Catalina has grown since the series started. The once shy girl is becoming a worthy leader. I like that she is coming into her own. She is developing into a strong heroine with good values.
I enjoyed the plot. It was mysterious with numerous twists. The politics involved with the houses are interesting. SAPPHIRE FLAMES is a thought-provoking addition to the Hidden Legacy series. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to fans of crime mystery urban fantasy. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
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LibraryThing member furrykidz
Great stories. No explicitly sexual but still romance.
LibraryThing member STACYatUFI
There has not been one Ilona Andrews book that I haven't loved and SAPPHIRE FLAMES was no different.
I'm not going to lie, I really love Nevada and Rogan. I was scared that I wouldn't like Catalina and Allessandro as much. Thankfully, they proved me wrong really quickly. I enjoyed getting to know
There isn't a lot of romance in SAPPHIRE FLAMES. Catalina is fighting tooth and nail to avoid him for most of the book, but she is totally into him. Allesandro has a LOT of secrets and I don't see anything of substance happening between the two until some of his secrets come out. Hopefully that will be quick as I really like them together and want to see them just as strong as Nevada and Rogan.
I loved the fast pace and action in SAPPHIRE FLAMES. The car chase was pretty epic. I absolutely love how Ilona Andrews brings their world alive through their words. I felt like I was right there in the car with her characters and I was on the edge of my seat through the whole ordeal.
I will continue to read everything this writing pair puts in front of me and I'm excited to see what Catalina and Alessandro do next.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not going to lie, I really love Nevada and Rogan. I was scared that I wouldn't like Catalina and Allessandro as much. Thankfully, they proved me wrong really quickly. I enjoyed getting to know
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Catalina and her abilities more. I also liked seeing her step up for her family now that Nevada and Rogan have other responsibilities. She has a lot of work ahead of her, but I think she is willing to learn so that her family stays safe. Allesandro is still a big mystery, but we learn that there is more to him than the playboy persona he allows the world to see. There isn't a lot of romance in SAPPHIRE FLAMES. Catalina is fighting tooth and nail to avoid him for most of the book, but she is totally into him. Allesandro has a LOT of secrets and I don't see anything of substance happening between the two until some of his secrets come out. Hopefully that will be quick as I really like them together and want to see them just as strong as Nevada and Rogan.
I loved the fast pace and action in SAPPHIRE FLAMES. The car chase was pretty epic. I absolutely love how Ilona Andrews brings their world alive through their words. I felt like I was right there in the car with her characters and I was on the edge of my seat through the whole ordeal.
I will continue to read everything this writing pair puts in front of me and I'm excited to see what Catalina and Alessandro do next.
* This book was provided free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member quondame
The world of the Hidden Legacy gets even darker and nastier as Catalina as head of the Baylor house must struggle to survive the end of 3 years of grace period while Nevada and Rogan are in Italy. Bad timing, and absurdly improbable, but necessary for this story not to be shared with that power
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couple. This one just isn't as fun as earlier volumes. Show Less
LibraryThing member phyllis2779
This was an enjoyable Hidden Legacy installment. Ilona Andrews is probably one of my favorite Urban fantasy/paranormal authors currently. Lots of action and really interesting characters. People have layers in in her books. The monsters are really monsters. It's hard to put one down once you start.
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I'm glad that Andrews chose to make the new books about the middle sister, Catalina. This book is picking up three years after the last one and that's fine. It's given some time for Catalina to mature and raised the stakes for their House. Show Less
LibraryThing member Glennis.LeBlanc
Augh! That was great and now I have to read it again!
The story arc has Catalina as the primary POV and she is now the head of House Baylor as it is coming out of its 3 year probationary status. Catalina is pulled into a case by Augustine to help Runa, a poison Prime that she knows from working on
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through Edelweiss
The story arc has Catalina as the primary POV and she is now the head of House Baylor as it is coming out of its 3 year probationary status. Catalina is pulled into a case by Augustine to help Runa, a poison Prime that she knows from working on
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her sister’s wedding. Runa’s mother and sister are dead and the circumstances around it don’t add up. In the early stages of the investigation Alessandro shoes up and quickly becomes involved in the case and sends Catalina’s heart to race since she has never gotten over meeting him after her Prime trial three years ago. The plot is fast paced, and no new major characters are introduced except the baddie in the book. So more info about various characters and I really appreciated how some people were brought up even if they didn’t play a part in the story. And there is plenty of backstory of what happens in the previous three years if the writers ever decide to shine a light on it. Digital review copy provided by the publisher through Edelweiss
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LibraryThing member karidrgn
It's an exciting continuation of the Hidden Legacy series as we learn how Catalina is growing and there is definitely another book coming because of the ending... which I can't wait to read. We learn more about Alessandro, who is more than just an international rich playboy. We learn more about why
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Catalina's powers scare her because of things that happened when she was a child and didn't know how to control them. Naturally, Catalina like her bigger sister Nevada, accepts a contract that's a LOT bigger and nastier than a new house like theirs should even contemplate taking, but she does because a friend needs their help. Show Less
LibraryThing member TheYodamom
I loved the story, and want more I need to find the connection I felt was missing from this first book in Catilina's story. I have read these authors enough to know they leave no stone unturned and will get to it. How long must I wait ? LOL
Don't hate me but I didn't love it as much as I expected.
Don't hate me but I didn't love it as much as I expected.
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Why ? It was Catalina, and Alessandro the tension, the chemistry the tingling in my toes just didn't happen. I never got the connection, yes she has a schoolgirl crush but we didn't see enough of it to feel it. It was just there, without the sparks that would draw them together. In previous books I never doubted the lust/love levels, this one I would believe one could just walk away. Maybe I'm just expecting them to stay in a pattern, oh now that would be terrible. The unexpected is a good thing. Okay so I didn't feel the lusty feeling, the rest I loved. I will wait with grabby hands for the next book. Show Less
LibraryThing member jpeterman
I really enjoy this series, and I am really enjoying reading about the sisters. I can't wait for the next one!
LibraryThing member roses7184
Ah, friends. It’s been so long since I’ve written my last review so please forgive me while I pretty much just gush over this book. If you’ve been here for any length of time, you’ll know that Ilona Andrews is one of my favorite authors. I’ve devoured their books one by one, cried a lot,
Now, I will admit that it took a minute for me to get used to our new narrator. Andrews’ fans know that Renee Raudman brings quite a life to most of the characters in these stories. Emily Raskin was absolutely fantastic though and, after a chapter or two, I was right into the story. She brings Catalina’s character to life perfectly. A young woman who is in charge without really wanting to be. A sister who wants to protect her family. A person adrift in a sea of powerful people who want to see her fail. Catalina stole my heart, and I’m not even upset about it.
True to form, the plot of this story flew straight from setting things up into full on panic mode. The Baylor family isn’t known for getting any down time, and that’s very true in this story as well. I won’t lie, their family dynamic has always been one of my favorite parts of this series. There is so much love mixed in with all the insanity, occasional terror, and humor. My favorite addition this time around? Oh, it was Alessandro thrown into the mix. No spoilers, I promise. Just know that his banter with this family is wonderful, and I want more of it as soon as possible.
Oh, friends. I laughed, I teared up, I literally shouted “NO” at this audio book more than once. If you’ve been following along with the Hidden Legacy novels, you’ll absolutely want to pick this one up. The ending made me a little bit pouty, but it’s also quite perfect to continue this series. So, once again, I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next book to make it into my hands.
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laughed a ton, and basically just been impatient waiting for whatever comes next. When I found out that Sapphire Flames would be from Catalina’s point of view, I was ecstatic! While I loved Nevada so much, I wanted to see how the life that they built for themselves affected the other members of her family. To say that I was excited for this is probably an understatement.Now, I will admit that it took a minute for me to get used to our new narrator. Andrews’ fans know that Renee Raudman brings quite a life to most of the characters in these stories. Emily Raskin was absolutely fantastic though and, after a chapter or two, I was right into the story. She brings Catalina’s character to life perfectly. A young woman who is in charge without really wanting to be. A sister who wants to protect her family. A person adrift in a sea of powerful people who want to see her fail. Catalina stole my heart, and I’m not even upset about it.
True to form, the plot of this story flew straight from setting things up into full on panic mode. The Baylor family isn’t known for getting any down time, and that’s very true in this story as well. I won’t lie, their family dynamic has always been one of my favorite parts of this series. There is so much love mixed in with all the insanity, occasional terror, and humor. My favorite addition this time around? Oh, it was Alessandro thrown into the mix. No spoilers, I promise. Just know that his banter with this family is wonderful, and I want more of it as soon as possible.
Oh, friends. I laughed, I teared up, I literally shouted “NO” at this audio book more than once. If you’ve been following along with the Hidden Legacy novels, you’ll absolutely want to pick this one up. The ending made me a little bit pouty, but it’s also quite perfect to continue this series. So, once again, I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next book to make it into my hands.
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LibraryThing member tetisheri
Sign me up to read anything that Ilona Andrews writes, because wow. Just wow. The worlds that Ilona Andrews creates are just marvelous. They are rich and real. You can feel how everything works and like you could just walk right into the world. I love how the magic isn't just all MAGIC, it has
I really enjoyed getting to meet Catalina in Nevada's books, and all the sides we saw of her in there, but we get to see a much more mature and rounded and capable Catalina. Not saying that she wasn't mature or capable before, but as the head of House Baylor, she's taken a lot of lessons in being the Queen B, and she's taken those lessons to heart. She turns into something that her house needs, and she does everything she can to guide it well. Then there's Alessandro.
Alessandro was there for Catalina's test and now that he's following her around, she figures that he's attached to her because of that, but he has a method to his madness. Probably.
I love the way that Alessandro and Cataline interact, and the chemistry that they seem to have as well as the chases that they are giving each other really kept me in the story, and made me want to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next, with not just them, but the rest of the story.
I can't wait for the next part of the story to see what happens.
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actual rules that it follows and that they are sensical rules, not just you know, it works because magic. I really enjoyed getting to meet Catalina in Nevada's books, and all the sides we saw of her in there, but we get to see a much more mature and rounded and capable Catalina. Not saying that she wasn't mature or capable before, but as the head of House Baylor, she's taken a lot of lessons in being the Queen B, and she's taken those lessons to heart. She turns into something that her house needs, and she does everything she can to guide it well. Then there's Alessandro.
Alessandro was there for Catalina's test and now that he's following her around, she figures that he's attached to her because of that, but he has a method to his madness. Probably.
I love the way that Alessandro and Cataline interact, and the chemistry that they seem to have as well as the chases that they are giving each other really kept me in the story, and made me want to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next, with not just them, but the rest of the story.
I can't wait for the next part of the story to see what happens.
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LibraryThing member samnreader
Hidden Legacy 1-3 is by far my favorite Ilona Andrews series. It's the best romance, the characters are slightly more dimensional, and the story is fun and original.
My main thought about this installment is that it's disappointing. I really enjoyed the novella. But this book fails expectations in
Alessandro is a really intriguing character, but his feelings for Catalina make very little sense. Her feelings for him make very little sense. They are clearly full-fledged in love without the least idea of each other at the point this novel concludes. Alessandro's power seems to be the power (view spoiler)
Catalina's fine, but she just seems so young. Kind of how I felt about Jared Leto or something. It's all very confusing to me, and I think unless you are a hardcore IA fan, of which I do not count myself, I don't know if I'd recommend this book.
I also want to note how heavily this author couple relies on the same-old same-old romance pillars. The reluctant and combustible couple, mostly on the part of the resistant woman, can't they ever...date...or fumble about sweetly for a bit? (Honestly, Derek-Julie type foundation)
Maybe I've hit the wall with these books. Given I basically couldn't review the first 3 books in the series I loved them so much, it's a bummer. I'm going to go read Emerald Blaze b/c library & we'll see about the fate of the rest of their work. (less) [edit]
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My main thought about this installment is that it's disappointing. I really enjoyed the novella. But this book fails expectations in
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setting up character motivations, and the world-building is getting frankly, messy none of this is separate from my feelings of this silly "Head of Household" thing that apparently the magic world can't progress out of mini-dynasties that all-out battle and war with each other. SO MANY WEAPONS AND SO MANY TYPES OF MAGIC. And I'm just tired of the action sequences here.Alessandro is a really intriguing character, but his feelings for Catalina make very little sense. Her feelings for him make very little sense. They are clearly full-fledged in love without the least idea of each other at the point this novel concludes. Alessandro's power seems to be the power (view spoiler)
Catalina's fine, but she just seems so young. Kind of how I felt about Jared Leto or something. It's all very confusing to me, and I think unless you are a hardcore IA fan, of which I do not count myself, I don't know if I'd recommend this book.
I also want to note how heavily this author couple relies on the same-old same-old romance pillars. The reluctant and combustible couple, mostly on the part of the resistant woman, can't they ever...date...or fumble about sweetly for a bit? (Honestly, Derek-Julie type foundation)
Maybe I've hit the wall with these books. Given I basically couldn't review the first 3 books in the series I loved them so much, it's a bummer. I'm going to go read Emerald Blaze b/c library & we'll see about the fate of the rest of their work. (less) [edit]
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LibraryThing member murderbydeath
Straight up, I thoroughly enjoyed this book; for fans of the series it's absolutely worth every minute and every page.
BUT, it doesn't quite meet the high bar the Andrews team has set for itself. Couple that with my own inability to shift my perceptions, and the book, for me, doesn't match the
The first stumbling block is all mine: I had a hard time seeing Catalina, the MC of this book, as an adult. Even though Andrews has this story taking place 3 years after the events of book #3, she remained a teenager in my head, no matter how hard I tried to let her grow up. That failure on my part made any romantic tension between Catalina and Alessandro fizzle; it lacked the edginess I expect from Andrews and I found Alessandro's god-like perfection unbelievable. I like him, and I like Catalina, and I like the idea of them together, but it's all too fairy-tale princess for me in this story.
The second stumbling block was the predictability of more than a couple parts of the story. Typically Andrews is anything but predictable, so it's disappointing to see an old, worn out trope or two being bandied about here. Catalina's self-sacrifice is hard to admire as it and its future consequences are just too obvious.
Less of an issue, as it's a not infrequent theme in all her books, was the over-blown fight scene on the freeway. The Andrews team really does like unleashing ridiculous over-the-top monsters into the middle of Houston interstate traffic. I always feel like these scenes go too far and tip into silliness, but eh - they're a few pages and who hasn't fantasied about picking up an 18 wheeler and swinging through 5 lanes of traffic?
As I said at the start, it's a good story and well worth the read; it's just not a great story, and I actually enjoyed Sweep of the Blade more - and it takes place in space. Even so, I'm really pissed I have to wait for who knows how long until the next book comes out. I want to find out what happens next.
I read this because I've been waiting for it for months, but I'm also using it for Halloween Bingo, for my Spellbound square.
BUT, it doesn't quite meet the high bar the Andrews team has set for itself. Couple that with my own inability to shift my perceptions, and the book, for me, doesn't match the
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quality of the first three, or anything in the Kate Daniels or Innkeeper series.The first stumbling block is all mine: I had a hard time seeing Catalina, the MC of this book, as an adult. Even though Andrews has this story taking place 3 years after the events of book #3, she remained a teenager in my head, no matter how hard I tried to let her grow up. That failure on my part made any romantic tension between Catalina and Alessandro fizzle; it lacked the edginess I expect from Andrews and I found Alessandro's god-like perfection unbelievable. I like him, and I like Catalina, and I like the idea of them together, but it's all too fairy-tale princess for me in this story.
The second stumbling block was the predictability of more than a couple parts of the story. Typically Andrews is anything but predictable, so it's disappointing to see an old, worn out trope or two being bandied about here. Catalina's self-sacrifice is hard to admire as it and its future consequences are just too obvious.
Less of an issue, as it's a not infrequent theme in all her books, was the over-blown fight scene on the freeway. The Andrews team really does like unleashing ridiculous over-the-top monsters into the middle of Houston interstate traffic. I always feel like these scenes go too far and tip into silliness, but eh - they're a few pages and who hasn't fantasied about picking up an 18 wheeler and swinging through 5 lanes of traffic?
As I said at the start, it's a good story and well worth the read; it's just not a great story, and I actually enjoyed Sweep of the Blade more - and it takes place in space. Even so, I'm really pissed I have to wait for who knows how long until the next book comes out. I want to find out what happens next.
I read this because I've been waiting for it for months, but I'm also using it for Halloween Bingo, for my Spellbound square.
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LibraryThing member jennybeast
Hooray, another series centered on House Baylor, and another excuse to drop my life entirely while I hunker down with a thrill-a-minute Ilona Andrews story. Turns out Catalina is just as interesting as Nevada, and her romance is equally infuriating -- great combination. Amusing dialogue continues,
Advanced reader's copy provided by Edelweiss.
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and a little dog, too.Advanced reader's copy provided by Edelweiss.
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LibraryThing member WhiskeyintheJar
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I'd been attacked by two corpses, saw my teenage crush stab a man in the heart, and then watched him jump out of a three-story window.
Sapphire Flames is
“Work with me and we'll get this done together,” he said.
Catalina is a siren prime, which means that she has to consciously contain her magic because when it reaches out to people, the instantly love her, which leads them to become obsessed and eventually want to pull her apart to get pieces of her. While Catalina has her older sister Nevada and younger sister Arabella, grandmother, mother, and cousins who aren't affected by her magic because they already love her, her magic leaves her isolated and not wanting to get too close to anyone. When she was being tested for a Prime, she had to test against Alessandro, a Prime and count of an old, rich Italian family. Catalina had an instant liking to him and when he came to see her after the test, she couldn't believe if he really liked her or if her magic didn't wear off, so she pushed him away.
This could never happen. He and I could never happen. I was a siren. My magic would turn him into a lovesick zombie. He was an assassin. He killed people for a living.
With a storyline that has a little continuity from the previous novella I mentioned and took place three years ago, Runa, a Prime who can poison and ended up saving the Baylor family and wedding guests of Nevada from a poisonous cake, comes to Catalina (the Baylor family has an investigation business) to help her solve who killed her mother and sister. It's a case that has people warning Catalina off of it, even by Alessandro who suddenly shows up. The case has Catalina and Alessandro working together and it's clear that Alessandro has feelings for Catalina but that he also is not being honest about who he really is, not the playboy Catalina thought as he kills people with the skill of a very experienced assassin, and what his motivations are.
I wasn't alone. It didn't undo the weight that settled on my shoulders, but it made it lighter. Alessandro would stay with me.
As I mentioned, I'm new to the series and world, so I didn't have clear understanding of the magical world, there's all different kinds of Primes, sirens, poison, teleports, and beings that can shift and morph into half-animal half-humans, Catalina has wings that can sprout for instance and her sister Arabella can turn into a huge beast. There were a lot of Baylor family members to keep track of at first too but the story gives ample time to get to know everyone as Catalina works the case. As Catalina investigates further it unravels more and gets more dangerous with powerful magical Houses, political Texas National Assembly, and the dark dangerous secret of the Osiris serum having been stolen and used to illegally create magically warped humans. I liked how the story seemed to build on previous books in the series, bring readers into a new thread, and build over the course of the book.
Around half-way Catalina and Alessandro start to work together and their relationship starts to build, too. Alessandro's feelings are clear but it's also clear that he's keeping secrets of his own. If you're a reader of the series, you'll know that while some answers are given here, Catalina and Alessandro's story isn't finished in this book. Catalina is now also working as the Deputy Warden of TX under the powerful Linus, who obviously has a big secret involving Catalina, and after being forced to go to her powerful but other grandmother who is jailed, she made a promise that could forever keep her and Alessandro separated.
This was rich in danger, intrigue, and character relationships, delivering in an urban fantasy setting that bewitched my imagination. I'm definitely continuing on in the series to see what other trials befall Catalina and Alessandro and if they can fend them all off and come together.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I'd been attacked by two corpses, saw my teenage crush stab a man in the heart, and then watched him jump out of a three-story window.
Sapphire Flames is
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fourth in the Hidden Legacy series, and I will say it's possible to start here. A friend told me to read the novella before this, Diamond Fire, and that helped with giving me a crash course into this urban fantasy world and all the character relationships and dynamics. This takes place in Houston, Texas, but with fantasy elements, and it's obvious the authors have established this world. The fantasy side involves the Arcane realm and the Osiris serum that originally enured people with magical elements and have now been passed on and breed through the families. When two Primes, the strongest magical beings, show-up in three generations, that family can apply to be a House. That is the case for Catalina Baylor's family and with the new House of Baylor designation came a period of grace, where no other Houses could attack them, but that time is up. Even magical beings need their politics and war! With Catalina's sister Nevada (#1 Burn for Me) having married and joined her husband's house, Catalina is now the Head of House Baylor and the leader and protector of her family.“Work with me and we'll get this done together,” he said.
Catalina is a siren prime, which means that she has to consciously contain her magic because when it reaches out to people, the instantly love her, which leads them to become obsessed and eventually want to pull her apart to get pieces of her. While Catalina has her older sister Nevada and younger sister Arabella, grandmother, mother, and cousins who aren't affected by her magic because they already love her, her magic leaves her isolated and not wanting to get too close to anyone. When she was being tested for a Prime, she had to test against Alessandro, a Prime and count of an old, rich Italian family. Catalina had an instant liking to him and when he came to see her after the test, she couldn't believe if he really liked her or if her magic didn't wear off, so she pushed him away.
This could never happen. He and I could never happen. I was a siren. My magic would turn him into a lovesick zombie. He was an assassin. He killed people for a living.
With a storyline that has a little continuity from the previous novella I mentioned and took place three years ago, Runa, a Prime who can poison and ended up saving the Baylor family and wedding guests of Nevada from a poisonous cake, comes to Catalina (the Baylor family has an investigation business) to help her solve who killed her mother and sister. It's a case that has people warning Catalina off of it, even by Alessandro who suddenly shows up. The case has Catalina and Alessandro working together and it's clear that Alessandro has feelings for Catalina but that he also is not being honest about who he really is, not the playboy Catalina thought as he kills people with the skill of a very experienced assassin, and what his motivations are.
I wasn't alone. It didn't undo the weight that settled on my shoulders, but it made it lighter. Alessandro would stay with me.
As I mentioned, I'm new to the series and world, so I didn't have clear understanding of the magical world, there's all different kinds of Primes, sirens, poison, teleports, and beings that can shift and morph into half-animal half-humans, Catalina has wings that can sprout for instance and her sister Arabella can turn into a huge beast. There were a lot of Baylor family members to keep track of at first too but the story gives ample time to get to know everyone as Catalina works the case. As Catalina investigates further it unravels more and gets more dangerous with powerful magical Houses, political Texas National Assembly, and the dark dangerous secret of the Osiris serum having been stolen and used to illegally create magically warped humans. I liked how the story seemed to build on previous books in the series, bring readers into a new thread, and build over the course of the book.
Around half-way Catalina and Alessandro start to work together and their relationship starts to build, too. Alessandro's feelings are clear but it's also clear that he's keeping secrets of his own. If you're a reader of the series, you'll know that while some answers are given here, Catalina and Alessandro's story isn't finished in this book. Catalina is now also working as the Deputy Warden of TX under the powerful Linus, who obviously has a big secret involving Catalina, and after being forced to go to her powerful but other grandmother who is jailed, she made a promise that could forever keep her and Alessandro separated.
This was rich in danger, intrigue, and character relationships, delivering in an urban fantasy setting that bewitched my imagination. I'm definitely continuing on in the series to see what other trials befall Catalina and Alessandro and if they can fend them all off and come together.
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LibraryThing member purpledog
I have been reading this series as fast as I can get the books from the library and now I have to wait for my hold on book #5 to continue. This book and the next two focus on Catalina. I loved learning more about her powers and a new love interest. The author also has continued to expand the world
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and entwined it with a fast-paced plot. I couldn't put this one down. Show Less
LibraryThing member Lauren2013
Sapphire Flames
4 Stars
Series note: The focus in the series has shifted from Nevada to Catalina and begins a new plot arc. Nevertheless, in order to understand the world-building and terminology, it is necessary to read the first trilogy prior to this book.
As is to be expected from Ilona Andrews,
Catalina has an unfortunate "woe-is-me" attitude that makes it difficult to view her as a strong and resilient heroine. Alessandro's characterization also suffers due to the inevitable comparison with the all-powerful and sexy as sin Rogan. Regardless of whatever strengths he has, Alessandro will always fall short.
In terms of their romance, Catalina and Alessandro have very little chemistry and their dialogue is missing the snark and wit that characterized Rogan and Nevada's relationship. Moreover, their attraction for one another lacks foundation. It has been 3 years since their initial encounter, and the reasons for their continued feelings are unclear. This is exacerbated by the fact that Catalina's affections are connected to Allesandro's apparent immunity to her magic rather than any real emotion.
Overall, the writing, world-building, and story make this a worthwhile read. Hopefully, the romance issues will be resolved in upcoming installments.
4 Stars
Series note: The focus in the series has shifted from Nevada to Catalina and begins a new plot arc. Nevertheless, in order to understand the world-building and terminology, it is necessary to read the first trilogy prior to this book.
As is to be expected from Ilona Andrews,
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the world-building is excellent and the plot revolving around assassins and stolen serums is well-developed and action-packed. That said, the characterization and romance are weak, especially in comparison to the first trilogy. Catalina has an unfortunate "woe-is-me" attitude that makes it difficult to view her as a strong and resilient heroine. Alessandro's characterization also suffers due to the inevitable comparison with the all-powerful and sexy as sin Rogan. Regardless of whatever strengths he has, Alessandro will always fall short.
In terms of their romance, Catalina and Alessandro have very little chemistry and their dialogue is missing the snark and wit that characterized Rogan and Nevada's relationship. Moreover, their attraction for one another lacks foundation. It has been 3 years since their initial encounter, and the reasons for their continued feelings are unclear. This is exacerbated by the fact that Catalina's affections are connected to Allesandro's apparent immunity to her magic rather than any real emotion.
Overall, the writing, world-building, and story make this a worthwhile read. Hopefully, the romance issues will be resolved in upcoming installments.
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LibraryThing member comfypants
A 2019 novel, book 4 in the Hidden Legacy series.
A murder investigation uncovers another evil wizard conspiracy.
C+ (Okay).
I feel like this is 3 quarters of a book; half the action happens to side characters, off page. I still enjoyed it. Catalina is a more interesting and likable character than
(Jul. 2023)
A murder investigation uncovers another evil wizard conspiracy.
C+ (Okay).
I feel like this is 3 quarters of a book; half the action happens to side characters, off page. I still enjoyed it. Catalina is a more interesting and likable character than
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Nevada (although al least Nevada wouldn't sleep through her own book). Alessandro isn't unforgivably awful (although he is a dick). This story is not good, though. Maybe the short story that follows this will be the rest of the book?(Jul. 2023)
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LibraryThing member Nemerith
First of, this is not a book about Nevada and Rogan... they've had their fun, now it's time for a new heroine... Catalina. Yes, this will be very different than what we're used to reading (as in, the first three books), but trust me... keep this in mind and it will be no less awesome! Also, go and
On with the review.
After 3 years and after some (very necessary) training (courtesy of Mrs Rogan) Catalina is putting on her badass shoes :D
3 years have passed since the trials and the grace period for House Baylor has come to an end, meaning they are now vulnerable and without protection. On top of all that good news, there is a case of a close friend that could really make or break their new House, but Catalina is the only one left to help. As Nevada and Mad Rogan are off and unavailable, she will have to step up and make it known that House Baylor is a force to reckon with and there to stay.
Character development was good. Catalina has matured a lot since we last read about her in Diamond Fire. Though that doesn't mean she doesn't struggle or flings around her magic willy-nilly. No, she still has a very tight lid on that actually. She is well written en believable. She's not perfect, she has hopes, fears, flaws like everyone. But she has some serious balls, I can tell you that :D
It was really nice to read how the family functions without Nevada, how everyone has come to grip with the reality of what is going on and what needs to be done. Great to read how they all work together. Throw in a boring Bug and you have a recipe for awesome.
And then we have our 'male of the series', Alessandro. Who really knows how to get in a girls way of doing her damn job! That said... wow, I mean, I really wouldn't mind, seriously... hahaha.
I'm looking forward to seeing a lot more of him and his interactions with Catalina.
Pacing and flow were very good, a lot happening but the authors achieved a great balance between conversation and action to keep the story moving forward. I pretty much read this in one go and never was I bored of got the feeling it was too much at once.
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors.
All in all... bring on the next book, please! Can't wait to read more in this wonderful world with such great characters.
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read Diamond Fire if you haven't already as in my opinion it gives a deeper insight into Catalina.On with the review.
After 3 years and after some (very necessary) training (courtesy of Mrs Rogan) Catalina is putting on her badass shoes :D
3 years have passed since the trials and the grace period for House Baylor has come to an end, meaning they are now vulnerable and without protection. On top of all that good news, there is a case of a close friend that could really make or break their new House, but Catalina is the only one left to help. As Nevada and Mad Rogan are off and unavailable, she will have to step up and make it known that House Baylor is a force to reckon with and there to stay.
Character development was good. Catalina has matured a lot since we last read about her in Diamond Fire. Though that doesn't mean she doesn't struggle or flings around her magic willy-nilly. No, she still has a very tight lid on that actually. She is well written en believable. She's not perfect, she has hopes, fears, flaws like everyone. But she has some serious balls, I can tell you that :D
It was really nice to read how the family functions without Nevada, how everyone has come to grip with the reality of what is going on and what needs to be done. Great to read how they all work together. Throw in a boring Bug and you have a recipe for awesome.
And then we have our 'male of the series', Alessandro. Who really knows how to get in a girls way of doing her damn job! That said... wow, I mean, I really wouldn't mind, seriously... hahaha.
I'm looking forward to seeing a lot more of him and his interactions with Catalina.
Pacing and flow were very good, a lot happening but the authors achieved a great balance between conversation and action to keep the story moving forward. I pretty much read this in one go and never was I bored of got the feeling it was too much at once.
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors.
All in all... bring on the next book, please! Can't wait to read more in this wonderful world with such great characters.
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Original publication date
2019-08-27
Local notes
Hidden Legacy, 4
DDC/MDS
| Fic SF Andrews |