Genres: Urban Fantasy, YA Urban Fantasy
Published by Avon Impulse
Released on November 6, 2018
Pages: 160
Format: eBook
Source: Purchased
The Delight
After wrapping up Wildfire and getting that sense of utter satisfaction, but thoroughly saddened to say farewell to a well-written series, I was not ready to be done with the Baylor family and Rogan and all the usual suspects. A transition novella and a new season in the series was just the thing to sweep away my book depression.
Review
Diamond Fire, book #3.5, in the Hidden Legacy series wraps up the loose threads and a chance to transition from Nevada to Catalina as the lead figure. This is definitely not a good place to jump in and the series works best taking it in order.
Nevada and Connor’s wedding is at the center of this new Hidden Legacy story. Catalina and Arabella somehow end up the wedding coordinators and it is hectic since this is a wedding for two primes and two magical Houses. While keeping up with her sister’s wedding needs and skirting around Connor’s large dysfunctional family, Catalina is called upon to locate the missing wedding tiara and keep the wedding safe and enjoyable for all involved. The list of suspects is long and Catalina is forced to call upon her cursed magic as she thinks of it, to get the case closed before the wedding.
It was interesting shifting to Catalina’s point of view. She is very different from her sister, Nevada. And, that is a good thing. I love that the author’s gave her individuality. Unlike Nevada, Catalina is well aware of what she is capable of doing. She is relatively untried, but she is terrified of her own magical skill set which is that of Siren who can compel people against their will. She doesn’t like that responsibility and backs away from relationships and other people because she doesn’t want to slip up and not know if they really like her or if they are under the influence of her magic. She gets a front row seat in observing the difference in family dynamics and struggles with seeing how being involved with House power and wealth can warp a family. She likes her family just the way it is and worries now that they are a new House.
Catalina’s investigation kept me fascinated as did some of the situations she had to step up and deal with. I enjoyed her kickbutt heroine moments. The mystery of the tiara was simple enough when the distractions were stripped aside.
So, Diamond Fire did the job of getting me enthused for the next chapter in the story with the focus turning to another Baylor, but still getting all the Baylors along for the ride. Fans of Urban Fantasy can’t go wrong with this series.
Challenges
Romance Roundabout #378 UF
New Release #195
Recommendations
Preview
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Glad you enjoyed this one! Hugs…
Thanks, Ro! I do enjoy the authors’ writing and this series. 🙂
I have this one and will have to read it soon.
It’s going to be a treat for you, Mary. 🙂
I don’t know how you could wait to read this, or maybe you just waited to review it. I read it like the second it hit my Kindle. I’m glad you liked it though. Anne – Books of My Heart
LOL! Yeah, I read it a while ago, but I actually didn’t read it right when it released. I had just finished Wildfire and was savoring it still.
I have an odd kick in my gallop that I don’t necessarily jump on a much anticipated new release even after I preordered it so I’d have it as soon as it goes live. 🙂
Good to hear the novella was a satisfying read. Happy holidays and reading 🙂
Yes, it was a lovely follow up to one series arc and a lead in to the next. Thanks, Velvet!
I am so glad that you enjoyed Catalina’s mini story, it was such fun seeing her personality shine in this one though.
I agree! I liked getting to know her a little better before the next full novel comes out while getting more Nevada and Connor of course. 🙂
I loved this one. I agree it was a great way to change over from Nevada to Catalina. I liked her personality, which is so different from Nevada’s and they way she juggles wedding planning, using her magic, and finding who stole the tiara was wonderful. Great review.
Agreed, Angela! We’re in for a treat when the next book comes. 🙂
I had sucha great time with this one!
Wasn’t it fun to get to know Catalina better? 🙂
Glad to hear this was good. 🙂 Ilona Andrews seem to really hit the mark with their urban fantasy stuff, I’m familiar with Kate Daniels of course but I guess they’re written a lot of other good stuff too?
Merry Christmas!!!
Definitely good. I thought this series was a fun one, but I pretty much have a good time with any of their books. 🙂
Merry Christmas to you, Greg!
I am really looking forward to more from Catalina. I agree that the authors did a fantastic job of creating a very different character than Nevada. Glad you enjoyed it!
Yes, it will be interesting to see how her different personality and magic gift affects the storyline. 🙂
This sounds like a fun story. It has me interested in reading the series! 🙂
Oh yes, if you like mystery, magic, and action all in one then it’s a good choice, Crystal!
You liked this a lot more than I did. I thought it was a good read, but I am ready to get on with the series and lovefests! LOL
Great review, Sophia. I can’t wait to see more of the Baylor’s. I think what makes it even more special is that it’s headed by two matriarchs.
I confess that I did have moments of impatience to get on with the next series’ story arc and all the action and romance.
I do love that grandma Frieda and their mom run the family. It’s different than the usual, but so is that whole Baylor clan. 🙂
Yes! I loved this one too, and now I can’t wait for the full-length novel! I need more Catalina!
Hope you’ve been having a wonderful time during the Holidays, Sophia Rose! I’m just now catching up right before the next one! 🙂
Yep, I’m reading for Catalina’s big debut. 🙂
Thanks, Rachel! Yes, it has been fun. We’re off work and doing little tasks, but scattering in a goodly amount of sleeping in and fun stuff, too. Oh yep, getting ready for New Year’s. 🙂
I’m going to miss having Nevada and Mad Rogan as the main characters, but it seems that Catalina will do a great job taking up that mantle. Great review. Happy New Year
Yes, it was a little bittersweet getting only glimpses of them, but I was relieved that I could like Catalina, too.