Magic Bites (Kate Daniels, #1)

by Ilona Andrews

[littleread1]

I read this as part of my Goodreads Book Club's, Edsel's Hair of the Dog, July read. I know this is nowhere near a new release, but it was my first time reading it, so here you go. I liked it. I didn't love it, but I liked it. I have heard several people say the same things about this book, but that the rest of the series gets better. This wasn't my first glimpse into this world. I have read a short story about the world. I can't remember what it was called, or where, or even if the characters in it included Kate (though I don't think they do because of what happens) but it helped ease me into the world. Which could be really confusing. Magic flows through in waves. When magic is "up" all things technological don't work. But when tech is "up" most things magic don't work. Vampires are ravenous creatures that, if not piloted (controlled by a necromancer), then they would just eat until they were stopped. The People (not the general public) control the vampires and run casinos for income.

Were-creatures have their own Pack, including a pack leader named Curran, who apparently becomes the love interest at some later book. Definitely not in this one. He is a cocky bastard. Kate, the MC knows it, and instantly dislikes him. Well, she fears him, with good reason, and masks her fear with dislike, and snarky comments.

"Here kitty, kitty, kitty."

"Would you please deliver a saucer of milk to him with my compliments?"

I suppose I should explain that Curran is a were-lion. Which is no surprise if you look at the cover of the book. I actually laughed aloud at that second line. Kate is on a date with another man, and sees Curran in the restaurant watching her. That is her response. David looked at me like I was on something and shook his head. Whatever, any book that can make me laugh our loud is good.

While I liked the story, I felt there were too many unanswered questions. Too many things left unexplained. I hate books that have an info dump in book one, and barely squeak out a story, but this one did the opposite. I didn't feel there was enough info. The story flowed well, but kept referencing things it appeared I should already know. Kate herself kept alluding to things in her past, her magic, the world, that I am still confused on.

Because of the lack of info, and the fact that the story kept me thoroughly interested, I would have to give this 3.5 stars. Good, but not great. Will I read the rest of the series? How could I not with all the talk about how Kate and Curran are one of the greatest book couples in rceent history? Will they trump Terrible and Chess from Downside Ghosts? In my mind, doubtful, but I am willing to give them a shot. :-)