Okay, I’ll face it; I wasn’t overly excited when I learned there would be another Julie story. Who wants to view her in more detail? Dammit, where’s my next Hugh episode? Let’s go! PRIORITIES Ilona. (My priorities clearly being the most crucial.) I had no reason to believe that a new name or some time away would make me think differently about Julie or be particularly impressed. In the end, I was mistaken. The smallest of the changes is the change from Julie Lennart to Aurelia Ryder. She learned a lot over the years she was gone, spending them with a cherished Aunt, and now feels more than prepared to play in the major leagues. But she might not be able to handle this circumstance given how hot it is. She will also have to confront some problems (and individuals) from her past that she had thought she had left behind her now that she is back in Atlanta. Such a tasty struggle. I eagerly read through the online chapters and counted down the days until the book’s release as they were removed in preparation. You might be wondering what’s new if you’ve read the website’s previous content. There are five more chapters that bring everything to a dramatic finish in addition to the previous chapters being refined rather than significantly changed. An finale that somewhat resolves your questions while also leaving you wanting more…
It can feel a little strange when it opens. Maybe something is off, like something is missing. Kate and all the other people we have grown to love are that thing. However, that is quickly overcome. Because the combination of old and new that this book gives is flawless. While it does feature some old favourites who contribute to the plot in their own unique ways, it also offers readers so much more: the delight of watching series kids grow into adults. It is a TON OF FUN. I am powerless to explain. I couldn’t help but smile as a result. The book provides a sensation that we’re all lacking right now: the cosiness of a family gathering when stories are shared and laughter is had at the antics of young relatives trying to make their place in the world—and messing it up. But it’s not all games and fun; there’s also heat. Not only the little ones have grown, but also other people. Some character enhancements have the ability to make me drop to the floor. I won’t mention the name because perhaps some people reading this are unaware of just who turns up full of new flavour. But it’s a MOMENT, by all the Gods. Which brings about some important disclosures (note: I didn’t say resolves). In addition to all of that, IA is known for its excellent action, horrifying monsters, and imaginatively terrifying magic. Really, I don’t know what else I had anticipated because this writing team is the finest. That’s why this book feels both like a world of fresh possibilities and like a home.
I finished reading it with a shout of incredulity after reading it completely. The end couldn’t be near… Though it was. Thus, the period of waiting has just begun. Ilona Andrews can’t possibly leave us here, not in any manner, shape, or form. It would be inhumane punishment. I’m somewhat encouraged that our combined cries will result in a favourable outcome since I have no doubt whatsoever that any fan reading this book will feel the same way I do. Hugh is here, and we can add more Julie or Aurelia. Right??!! So read and savour it, and then join me in my suffering.
The Review
Blood Heir
This is a spin-off of the popular Kate Daniels series centered around the grown up Julie (now going by Aurelia Ryder), Kate’s former ward. If you’re new to the Kate Daniels world, the authors (Ilona Andrews is the pen name for a husband and wife writing team) did a nice job layering in the information you need to know, so you can easily start here.
PROS
- Engaging story with great characters
- Lots of action, and plenty of humor
- Worth the lack of sleep
- Thrilling urban fantasy
CONS
- It's an incomplete story arc
- A Swing and A Miss
- Too Much Setup, Not Enough Payoff