Defying Magick (The Witch Blood Chronicles, #2)

by Debbie Cassidy

[kimbacaffeinate]

Since the first novel, Carmella continues to search for her mother as she holds the key to who her father is and who bound her magic. She completed her training and accepted a position at the IEPEU the Iner-Entity Pact Enforcement Unit.

Carmella bears witness to a horrific supernatural massacre and is assigned to take the lead for the IEPEU. She'll be under the watchful eye of a superior, but Carmella is determined to catch the culprits. Threats from the Dijinn, and her asura power emerging complicate things. Poor Carmella.

Our heroine is snarky, fouled mouthed and not afraid to jump into action mainly if a friend is in danger. That danger causes her asura form to materialize, and it was epic. I was thrilled to discover what she is. Carmella begins training even as the witches want to strip her of her magic. The girl has spirit though, and it's her break out the tequila and kick some ass attitude that makes me smile.

The murder mystery was an intense one. Through it we watch Carmella grow as she faces disappointment, betrayal and struggles to master her skills. She surrounds herself with a group of friends, who aid her and before the story ends, she will add another.

There is a romantic thread with plenty of complications, but it's served as a side dish. It will be interesting to see how Cassidy develops it.

Zehra Jane Naqvi narrates and provided an enjoyable narration. Her accent and rendering of Carmella capture her spunk, vulnerabilities and kickass moments.

The series is refreshing and deals with a lot of Hindu based beliefs, gods, and supernatural elements. I am looking forward to seeing Carmella come fully into her power and new role at the IEPEU. Each book deals with a new case to solve, but an overall arc concerning Carmella and her powers might make you want to consider reading these in order.

Fans of snarky heroines, mysteries and magic will want to check out Defying Magick and this action-packed series. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer