Edit: I've just re-read this 10 years later and disagree with myself below. It's just as good as book three but in a totally different way. I'll keep my original review up though because it must be what I thought at the time.

Og review.

This one's hard to review without giving away spoilers, but I will try. As usual, it was a pleasure slipping back into Ilona Andrews' amazingly crafted world of chaotic magic, kick-ass heroines and sexy shapeshifters.

What I will say is that up until now each book has been better than the first for the first three novels. This one, although there was absolutely nothing wrong with it, and it had some scenes in it that I loved, it didn't quite beat the thrill of Magic Strike's gladiator-style storyline for me. Not enough for it to not get full marks, mind—I would still read it again which is my benchmark for giving out 5 stars—but I just thought book three was so very awesome. Most of my favourite funny and/or romantic quotes and scenes come from that book.

This one is exciting for a different reason. What it lacked on the action side of things, it more than made up for in other ways. There are big developments—both positive and negative—in certain characters' personal relationships. There are big changes afoot for Kate's life as she knew it.

My favourite funny moments for this novel are the practical jokes the characters play on each other. They are totally hilarious. I need it to hurry up and be May 31st to get my next fix! I hope it's the size of a small bungalow when it's published :D