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Hidden Legacy #6
Ruby Fever
#1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews is back with the newest book in the exciting Hidden Legacy series—the thrilling conclusion to her trilogy featuring fierce and beautiful Prime magic user Catalina Baylor.
An escaped spider, the unexpected arrival of an Imperial Russian Prince, the senseless assassination of a powerful figure, a shocking attack on the supposedly invincible Warden of Texas, Catalina’s boss... And it’s only Monday.
Within hours, the fate of Houston—not to mention the House of Baylor—now rests on Catalina, who will have to harness her powers as never before. But even with her fellow Prime and fiancé Alessandro Sagredo by her side, she may not be able to expose who’s responsible before all hell really breaks loose.
An escaped spider, the unexpected arrival of an Imperial Russian Prince, the senseless assassination of a powerful figure, a shocking attack on the supposedly invincible Warden of Texas, Catalina’s boss... And it’s only Monday.
Within hours, the fate of Houston—not to mention the House of Baylor—now rests on Catalina, who will have to harness her powers as never before. But even with her fellow Prime and fiancé Alessandro Sagredo by her side, she may not be able to expose who’s responsible before all hell really breaks loose.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2022
About the author
Ilona Andrews
145 books31.5k followersIlona Andrews is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored two series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels and romantic urban fantasy of The Edge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,767 reviews
September 12, 2022
….
THATS IT?!?!
let’s backtrack….this was another amazing IA book for the first 97%…like seriously, they took it to another level with the action sequences and romance and plot building (often times making me question if i really have two degrees)…
but that ending? i’m being as fair as possible but that was way too rushed and a little bit anti-climatic…like they were on a deadline and had to submit it as if they were being held at gunpoint…
maybe there was so much going on in the book that the end needed to be absolutely insane for it to make an impact?
either way, i feel like the characters were ripped away from me way too quickly and if i don’t get an arabella series, THERE WILL BE PROBLEMS. and throw one in for leon too, simply cause i deserve it.
***
EDIT: EARLY 2022?! .......i have to live another year before reading this book?! they expect too much from me 😔
honestly.....with the way 2020 is going......making it to 2021 doesn't look too promising. so personally.....i think ilona andrews should take one for the team and just drop this book this year. all in agreement say 'aye'.
THATS IT?!?!
let’s backtrack….this was another amazing IA book for the first 97%…like seriously, they took it to another level with the action sequences and romance and plot building (often times making me question if i really have two degrees)…
but that ending? i’m being as fair as possible but that was way too rushed and a little bit anti-climatic…like they were on a deadline and had to submit it as if they were being held at gunpoint…
maybe there was so much going on in the book that the end needed to be absolutely insane for it to make an impact?
either way, i feel like the characters were ripped away from me way too quickly and if i don’t get an arabella series, THERE WILL BE PROBLEMS. and throw one in for leon too, simply cause i deserve it.
***
EDIT: EARLY 2022?! .......i have to live another year before reading this book?! they expect too much from me 😔
honestly.....with the way 2020 is going......making it to 2021 doesn't look too promising. so personally.....i think ilona andrews should take one for the team and just drop this book this year. all in agreement say 'aye'.
December 5, 2023
Book 6 in The Hidden Legacy Series and a conclusion to Catalina's story arc and it pulls no punches.
While actually all books in the series are wild and exhilarating roller coaster rides, for me Ruby Fever was far the most intense. It was going from peak to peak and the stakes were raised higher and higher.
There were many threads to conclude, some still from books 1-3 and concluded they were to satisfaction, but unfortunately this meant that there was less family time and banter with my favourite Baylors (all of them are favourites, just to be clear about it. :) .
I could have done with an extra 50-100 pages or so, just to be able to spend more time with them, but you can't have everything.
Anyways, without being spoilerish
- Catalina's and Alessandro's relationship are given more depth
- Alessandro's backstory and family relations are unraveled
- we get some more Tremaine-Baylor family history tidbits
- we get some Augustine, though not as much as I would have liked :)
- Matilda and Cornelius are also part of the lovely parcel
- some new interesting and intriguing characters are introduced who will hopefully turn up again in Arabella's books (there just have to be Arabella books!!!!)
As always, even when there is a happy conclusion, Ilona Andrew's books just leave you with wanting MORE. :) So what can I do?! Go and reread the HL books. :)
ARC received by the Publisher HarperCollins via EDELWEISS+ in exchange for an honest review.
‐‐---‐-‐-------
Just got an ARC via EDELWEISS+!!!!
AM SO HAPPY!!!!
‐-‐---------
I knew the title would be something with "rubies" in it. :)
And there it goes: Ruby Fever
After the AWESOME, STUNNING Emerald Blaze and of course it ended with one of the most vicious cliffhangers imaginable, so obviously I feel like:
And I want the next book something like desperate:
August 30, 2022
30/08/22
4.5 Ruby stars
So, right before this lovely gem released I re-read the whole series. Not that I needed the excuse. Though it kept everything fresh in my mind. The problem now, is that it's all one big book in my head which makes it difficult to review. But I shall forge ahead regardless.
As always IA delivered! New characters, new and old powers emerging, changing or amplifying. I think it's one of my favourite aspects of this series, the powers that the authors come up with are quite captivating. Also I kinda love that I called the "twists" back in book 3, feels good to be right.
I loved that we got to see a bit of everyone and the progression of all the relationships. That Catalina and Alessandro are together but still dealing with their personal issues and working through them within their relationship. I think if they were cookie cutter perfect from the get go I would have been disappointed. To be honest, I love this world so much that I would read any adventures the authors write for all the side characters. Of course that's impossible and the authors themselves said that they don't want to be writing endless spinoffs.
(But some good news for the Arabella fans as they have plans for her as indicated at end of the book. They will most likely self publish for her as it wont fall under the specific contract terms with Avon.)
Now, to the half a star deduction.. I think I built up the last inevitable battle in my head way too big because it felt a tad anticlimactic and ended too quick for me.. It possibly comes down to, as the authors say, that this isn't a fantasy series like KD but a romance series. I've been reading Kate and Innkeeper so long that I falsely attributed their tone to the Hidden Legacy series. Rules, and especially since they are under contract with Avon for it, are different for a romance book.
Either way, it was a satisfying wrap up of all the issues since the beginning of the series, with several HFN,HEA for our couples and very intriguing hints for the continuation with Arabella at the helm. (Whether the continuation will be 1 book or 3 has not been hinted or clarified, only that they will possibly self publish her adventure)
For those interested, please read after you have finished the book,
Ruby Fever Spoilerific Q&A: https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/ru...
If you haven't picked this up yet, what are you doing here?! Go and get the first book you will not regret it!!
15/02/22
Deleted Scene!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/re...
22/10/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/fr...
29/9/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ti...
10/9/21
New Snippet!
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/snippe...
21/7/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/th...
3/6/21
First Chapter Snippet!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/sn...
21/5/21
Snippet!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/th...
3/2/21
One incredibly cool family portrait with Catalina, Nevada and Arabella! It seriously outshines all the covers for this series.
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/new-ar...
https://ilona-andrews.com/wp-content/...
20/1/21
Chapter snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ru...
25/12/20
Christmas snippet!
https://ilona-andrews.com/2020/happy-...
25/6/20
Title release: Ruby Fever
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2020/ti...
29/8/20
After reading Emerald Blaze, I can't wait to see where the authors take Catalina next. Poor thing has been through the wringer. Nevada is still my fave though. Also, I hope we get more books for the rest of the family.
4.5 Ruby stars
So, right before this lovely gem released I re-read the whole series. Not that I needed the excuse. Though it kept everything fresh in my mind. The problem now, is that it's all one big book in my head which makes it difficult to review. But I shall forge ahead regardless.
As always IA delivered! New characters, new and old powers emerging, changing or amplifying. I think it's one of my favourite aspects of this series, the powers that the authors come up with are quite captivating. Also I kinda love that I called the "twists" back in book 3, feels good to be right.
I loved that we got to see a bit of everyone and the progression of all the relationships. That Catalina and Alessandro are together but still dealing with their personal issues and working through them within their relationship. I think if they were cookie cutter perfect from the get go I would have been disappointed. To be honest, I love this world so much that I would read any adventures the authors write for all the side characters. Of course that's impossible and the authors themselves said that they don't want to be writing endless spinoffs.
(But some good news for the Arabella fans as they have plans for her as indicated at end of the book. They will most likely self publish for her as it wont fall under the specific contract terms with Avon.)
Now, to the half a star deduction.. I think I built up the last inevitable battle in my head way too big because it felt a tad anticlimactic and ended too quick for me.. It possibly comes down to, as the authors say, that this isn't a fantasy series like KD but a romance series. I've been reading Kate and Innkeeper so long that I falsely attributed their tone to the Hidden Legacy series. Rules, and especially since they are under contract with Avon for it, are different for a romance book.
Either way, it was a satisfying wrap up of all the issues since the beginning of the series, with several HFN,HEA for our couples and very intriguing hints for the continuation with Arabella at the helm. (Whether the continuation will be 1 book or 3 has not been hinted or clarified, only that they will possibly self publish her adventure)
For those interested, please read after you have finished the book,
Ruby Fever Spoilerific Q&A: https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/ru...
If you haven't picked this up yet, what are you doing here?! Go and get the first book you will not regret it!!
15/02/22
Deleted Scene!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/re...
22/10/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/fr...
29/9/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ti...
10/9/21
New Snippet!
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/snippe...
21/7/21
Snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/th...
3/6/21
First Chapter Snippet!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/sn...
21/5/21
Snippet!!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/th...
3/2/21
One incredibly cool family portrait with Catalina, Nevada and Arabella! It seriously outshines all the covers for this series.
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/new-ar...
https://ilona-andrews.com/wp-content/...
20/1/21
Chapter snippet!
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ru...
25/12/20
Christmas snippet!
https://ilona-andrews.com/2020/happy-...
25/6/20
Title release: Ruby Fever
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2020/ti...
29/8/20
After reading Emerald Blaze, I can't wait to see where the authors take Catalina next. Poor thing has been through the wringer. Nevada is still my fave though. Also, I hope we get more books for the rest of the family.
June 17, 2023
Brb, off to sacrifice to whatever pagan deity will grant me an Arabella trilogy…
Next week I’m starting rituals to bring an Augustine book and a Leon book into existence, too.
The conclusion to Hidden Legacy (for now, fingers crossed 🤞) is packed to the brim with action and reveals. Just make sure you hit up the restroom before you start reading because you are not going to want to pause for bathroom breaks in the middle.
Catalina is at the Prime 😉 of her development in this book. She’s come a very long way from the shy, terrified teenager we first meet through Nevada’s eyes. Alessandro, in true Alessandro fashion, has somehow become even more charming while losing none of his obnoxiousness. Love that idiot to death.
One thing that does bother me about the Hidden Legacy is the message it sets up surrounding magic users and hierarchy. Among the Houses, strength of one’s magic makes all the difference. Those born with lower rank than their parents (or heaven forbid, a dud) are shunned. This is clearly a bad thing, and the good guys in these books often express how messed up that social hierarchy is.
And yet, the tone of the story seems to support that system. All the good guys are rewarded with insanely powerful magic talents. Everyone is either openly a Prime or a Significant but clearly hiding some powerful magic. Nevada and Rogan were not supposed to be genetically compatible, but they chose to have kids anyway and love them no matter the rank. But of course Arthur comes out unbelievably powerful. The subtext I got from this is that the protagonists are almost narratively rewarded with strong magic talents, even though judging people by the strength of their magic is supposedly not okay.
Anyway, I would have liked to see a main character who is actually a dud, or just an average-level magic user, to learn how they navigate the world of the Houses. Or at least have the protagonists beat an enemy in a way that isn’t related to the strength of their magic. That would contradict the idea that big magic = big good.
BUT the above concern is a small gripe in comparison to all the love I have for this series. I am diving into a Kate Daniels reread soon to get over my grief of finishing Hidden Legacy without confirmation that another book will ever be released.
Next week I’m starting rituals to bring an Augustine book and a Leon book into existence, too.
The conclusion to Hidden Legacy (for now, fingers crossed 🤞) is packed to the brim with action and reveals. Just make sure you hit up the restroom before you start reading because you are not going to want to pause for bathroom breaks in the middle.
Catalina is at the Prime 😉 of her development in this book. She’s come a very long way from the shy, terrified teenager we first meet through Nevada’s eyes. Alessandro, in true Alessandro fashion, has somehow become even more charming while losing none of his obnoxiousness. Love that idiot to death.
One thing that does bother me about the Hidden Legacy is the message it sets up surrounding magic users and hierarchy. Among the Houses, strength of one’s magic makes all the difference. Those born with lower rank than their parents (or heaven forbid, a dud) are shunned. This is clearly a bad thing, and the good guys in these books often express how messed up that social hierarchy is.
And yet, the tone of the story seems to support that system. All the good guys are rewarded with insanely powerful magic talents. Everyone is either openly a Prime or a Significant but clearly hiding some powerful magic. Nevada and Rogan were not supposed to be genetically compatible, but they chose to have kids anyway and love them no matter the rank. But of course Arthur comes out unbelievably powerful. The subtext I got from this is that the protagonists are almost narratively rewarded with strong magic talents, even though judging people by the strength of their magic is supposedly not okay.
Anyway, I would have liked to see a main character who is actually a dud, or just an average-level magic user, to learn how they navigate the world of the Houses. Or at least have the protagonists beat an enemy in a way that isn’t related to the strength of their magic. That would contradict the idea that big magic = big good.
BUT the above concern is a small gripe in comparison to all the love I have for this series. I am diving into a Kate Daniels reread soon to get over my grief of finishing Hidden Legacy without confirmation that another book will ever be released.
September 24, 2022
very torn with my thoughts on this one!
on the one hand, i just adore this world. i was raised in houston and stepping back into these books is a delight every single time. but i think this trilogy in comparison to nevada's just doesn't work as well for me. i so appreciated the slow burn and attention to detail when it came to the nevada/mad rogan relationship and that same attention to detail was sorely lacking in these books. it was especially lackluster in this conclusion.
there is one mildly romantic moment here in the VERY beginning of the book but other than that? eh. throw away lines about how alessandro is the perfect match for catalina. lots of tell not a lot of show. which i think i could have been okay with since i didn't necessarily pick up Ruby Fever with the intent of finding the swooniest romance ever to knock me off my feet.
but the final show down was also a let down. so so much lead up and then the last 3% is really where we get the action. like say what??? it felt so out of place. and like a few other reviewers have mentioned i wonder if there was something going on when this book was getting written (it did take forever to get published) because it didn't feel like how this author duo would typically wrap up a book.
i'm ultimately disappointed with this book but i certainly didn't hate it. even at their worst (which i don't even know that this book is) Ilona Andrews writing is worlds better than most. i just selfishly had hoped for a little more romance.
also selfishly hoping for an age gap love triangle for miss arabella.
on the one hand, i just adore this world. i was raised in houston and stepping back into these books is a delight every single time. but i think this trilogy in comparison to nevada's just doesn't work as well for me. i so appreciated the slow burn and attention to detail when it came to the nevada/mad rogan relationship and that same attention to detail was sorely lacking in these books. it was especially lackluster in this conclusion.
there is one mildly romantic moment here in the VERY beginning of the book but other than that? eh. throw away lines about how alessandro is the perfect match for catalina. lots of tell not a lot of show. which i think i could have been okay with since i didn't necessarily pick up Ruby Fever with the intent of finding the swooniest romance ever to knock me off my feet.
but the final show down was also a let down. so so much lead up and then the last 3% is really where we get the action. like say what??? it felt so out of place. and like a few other reviewers have mentioned i wonder if there was something going on when this book was getting written (it did take forever to get published) because it didn't feel like how this author duo would typically wrap up a book.
i'm ultimately disappointed with this book but i certainly didn't hate it. even at their worst (which i don't even know that this book is) Ilona Andrews writing is worlds better than most. i just selfishly had hoped for a little more romance.
also selfishly hoping for an age gap love triangle for miss arabella.
April 19, 2023
Update 2023: I was in the mood for a re-read of the entire series starting with Nevada, and as always I'm experiencing the biggest book hangover ever. Also, I wish, really hope that there will be, one day in the not too far future, a trilogy about Arabella. Because I need more!!
SO GOOD!!!!! 4.5 stars
This was as wonderful as I hoped it would be!!!!
I’m addicted to all things Ilona Andrews, that means I usually re-read series whenever new books are being released. Which I did for Ruby Fever too, and for me it’s the best kind of reading experience. I immerses myself into their world, and won’t come out until a week or weeks later and afterwards I have the biggest book hangover ever – lol.
Also, I don’t know about you, but fictional families are so much better than real ones, and the Baylor family is probably my most favorite of all. I could go on about each family member, especially the kids and their cousins. What a fun and supportive group they are. Instant family GOLD!!!
FAMILY IS EVERYTHING IN THESE BOOKS.
Which is something I appreciate and actually enjoy – team spirit and solidarity makes for a strong family. But besides being a great family, the girls also find the right kind of partners, guys that fit into the family, and add to the overall fun.
Catalina and Alessandro were a fantastic couple. All of IA couples are just wonderful. Their personalities match, which makes working together pleasant, although they do have their moments when they occasionally bump heads and it’s always fun to watch. Something else I appreciate is that the drama personal or otherwise is low key, no big misunderstandings, no hurt feelings. But honestly there wouldn’t even be time for drama, because the action around them is sky high.
It was like riding a rollercoaster, the couple was catapulted from one action filled scene to the next. I’m surprised they even had time to work on their relationship, but that’s probably why there are three books per couple in this series. And because of this there is actual growth to be seen, personal as well as relationship growth.
Ruby Fever was everything I wanted it to be. It was wonderfully entertaining, with many scenes that made me laugh out loud. I loved seeing Catalina and Alessandro as a couple, talking and planning for the future. Their connection was even deeper than before. The book was a fantastic final chapter in their story, and a great addition to the overall series. And the ending was just “chef’s kiss” with a couple great revelations.
THIS SERIES IS MUCH MORE ROMANCE THAN URBAN FANTASY.
The author once said, that if you would take the romance out of this series, the book could’t stand on its own. So, for everyone who hasn’t picked up any of their books yet, and is mostly a romance reader – you are going to LOVE them – I promise!!!!!
SO GOOD!!!!! 4.5 stars
This was as wonderful as I hoped it would be!!!!
I’m addicted to all things Ilona Andrews, that means I usually re-read series whenever new books are being released. Which I did for Ruby Fever too, and for me it’s the best kind of reading experience. I immerses myself into their world, and won’t come out until a week or weeks later and afterwards I have the biggest book hangover ever – lol.
Also, I don’t know about you, but fictional families are so much better than real ones, and the Baylor family is probably my most favorite of all. I could go on about each family member, especially the kids and their cousins. What a fun and supportive group they are. Instant family GOLD!!!
FAMILY IS EVERYTHING IN THESE BOOKS.
Which is something I appreciate and actually enjoy – team spirit and solidarity makes for a strong family. But besides being a great family, the girls also find the right kind of partners, guys that fit into the family, and add to the overall fun.
Catalina and Alessandro were a fantastic couple. All of IA couples are just wonderful. Their personalities match, which makes working together pleasant, although they do have their moments when they occasionally bump heads and it’s always fun to watch. Something else I appreciate is that the drama personal or otherwise is low key, no big misunderstandings, no hurt feelings. But honestly there wouldn’t even be time for drama, because the action around them is sky high.
It was like riding a rollercoaster, the couple was catapulted from one action filled scene to the next. I’m surprised they even had time to work on their relationship, but that’s probably why there are three books per couple in this series. And because of this there is actual growth to be seen, personal as well as relationship growth.
Ruby Fever was everything I wanted it to be. It was wonderfully entertaining, with many scenes that made me laugh out loud. I loved seeing Catalina and Alessandro as a couple, talking and planning for the future. Their connection was even deeper than before. The book was a fantastic final chapter in their story, and a great addition to the overall series. And the ending was just “chef’s kiss” with a couple great revelations.
THIS SERIES IS MUCH MORE ROMANCE THAN URBAN FANTASY.
The author once said, that if you would take the romance out of this series, the book could’t stand on its own. So, for everyone who hasn’t picked up any of their books yet, and is mostly a romance reader – you are going to LOVE them – I promise!!!!!
May 1, 2022
I received an ARC for this book from Harper Collins in exchange for an honest review. This is a spoiler-free review.
That being said, this is me right now:
I will never, ever be able to put into words how much these characters and this world mean to me. This series has saved my life, multiple times. I am a better person because of them. I am a better person and my life is better because this series exists. 
If I don't get an Arabella trilogy I WILL RIOT .
Throw in some extra Leon short stories in the mix as well, because I am NOT OK with not having any more material from these characters. Arabella DESERVES her own series and I want AND NEED her monster love story.
This was, as usual, impeccable. I understand they had to unpack a lot of things from previous books. We get all of our answers here, everything that was left unanswered from Nevada's trilogy as well. So this book was extremely heavy in the world building, family history, gene trees and more. However, we also got some amazing action scenes, as usual, the cutest and funniest dialogues and some adorable Catalina and Alessandro moments.
I did wish we had gotten a few more romantic moments. I feel like since they were focusing on so many different storylines, problems and wars, they didn't get a lot of time to focus on each other. That is my minor complaint.
My other complaint is that, every single conflict in this book could have been avoided/solved if Connor was around. However, I get why he wasn't. This is Catalina's story, not Nevada's any longer and using Connor as a "solve-everything" guy by either throwing money or his power at stuff isn't really a fair request.
I just miss them. I will always miss them. I am over-due my fourth reread of this series and reading this ARC just made me realize that I will never, ever love EVERY SINGLE character in a book the way I love these people.
I am the luckiest human being alive, just for being able to touch this advance readers copy THREE WHOLE MONTHS IN ADVANCE FROM RELEASE DATE. I am still in shock.
If you should know anything about me as a person, as a book blogger, as a reviewer, is that this series holds my body and soul. This series owns my mind and heart. This series has a shrine in my brain and these characters are the most incredible, organic and well developed characters I have ever read about.
You will never, and I repeat: NEVER, read a series with characters who feel as real as this. They exist, I can feel them, hear them, sense them. Their dialogues, their relationships, their dynamic, their family union, the pacing, the writing, the world building... there isn't a single flaw in this series.
This is, by far, the best urban fantasy series to date. Thank you for gifting us this world Illona Andrews.
Now give me Arabella's trilogy.
I am begging you.
Shelved as 'wishlist'
March 27, 2022I fucking love this series so much and I don't understand why it hasn't been picked up as a TV series yet
September 7, 2022
A well-written conclusion to Catalina & Alessandro's story.
I don't know why, but the Hidden Legacy series has never been a favorite with me, but for those of you who are rabid fans of the series, I think you'll absolutely love this one.
Would I still read a story about the youngest Baylor sister? Yes. Of course I would. Ilona Andrews are an excellent duo and I'd pretty much read whatever they decide to write. I would much rather see the next installment of Julie's story come out next, but...you know, whatever makes you happy.
Recommended for Hidden Legacy fans!
I don't know why, but the Hidden Legacy series has never been a favorite with me, but for those of you who are rabid fans of the series, I think you'll absolutely love this one.
Would I still read a story about the youngest Baylor sister? Yes. Of course I would. Ilona Andrews are an excellent duo and I'd pretty much read whatever they decide to write. I would much rather see the next installment of Julie's story come out next, but...you know, whatever makes you happy.
Recommended for Hidden Legacy fans!
August 19, 2022
I always feel so bereft as soon as I finish an Ilona Andrews book. Multiply that by 10 for a series finale (that I’m hoping really isn’t a finale). I loved being back in the Hidden Legacy world, with Catalina & Alessandro, with their family and friends – it almost felt like there wasn’t a 2 year gap between books 5 & 6. Almost. But IA made the wait totally worth it and Ruby Fever was everything I wanted it to be! Catalina & Alessandro’s story was epic and I’m so happy with how things ended for them. There was never a dull moment – we got plenty of twists and turns, lots of action, and a rock solid romance that only got stronger by the end. If you’re a fan of the series, you won’t be disappointed.
All I can say now is ARABELLA WHEN?????? 😭😭😭😭
All I can say now is ARABELLA WHEN?????? 😭😭😭😭
July 19, 2022
*4.5 stars*
Ilona Andrews fans, rejoice: Ruby Fever does NOT disappoint.
I'll admit I have a huge soft spot for this series. The world building is *chef's kiss*, and Ilona Andrews manages to bring the energy, the excitement, and the romance with each story. It's almost physically impossible for me to dislike a book in the Hidden Legacy series, but even with that caveat and trying to be objective, I still think Ruby Fever is outstanding.
You might have noticed that I rounded down to 4-stars. Yes, that's true, but it's only because I feel like the book was trying to cram a lot into one story. You know when you get to the end of the series (nooooo), and the author is trying to tie up all of the loose ends? That's a bit how I felt here. I think if another book in the series was planned (PLEASE), there wouldn't be so much Big Content in this story.
On the bright side, the story is just an epic adventure with interwoven plotlines and amazing characters. I love each of the side characters in this book and I didn't mind that some of them got a good chunk of page time. Sure, you need to be pretty familiar with this family to be able to follow along, but I think readers of this series won't have any issues. I had to spend a few moments refreshing myself, but I got there.
Romance! Adventure! Action! You literally can't go wrong with these books. I'm hoping that Arabella gets her own offshoot series (and soon) so I can get my fix again. Thank you, Ilona Andrews, for a wild ride.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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Ilona Andrews fans, rejoice: Ruby Fever does NOT disappoint.
I'll admit I have a huge soft spot for this series. The world building is *chef's kiss*, and Ilona Andrews manages to bring the energy, the excitement, and the romance with each story. It's almost physically impossible for me to dislike a book in the Hidden Legacy series, but even with that caveat and trying to be objective, I still think Ruby Fever is outstanding.
You might have noticed that I rounded down to 4-stars. Yes, that's true, but it's only because I feel like the book was trying to cram a lot into one story. You know when you get to the end of the series (nooooo), and the author is trying to tie up all of the loose ends? That's a bit how I felt here. I think if another book in the series was planned (PLEASE), there wouldn't be so much Big Content in this story.
On the bright side, the story is just an epic adventure with interwoven plotlines and amazing characters. I love each of the side characters in this book and I didn't mind that some of them got a good chunk of page time. Sure, you need to be pretty familiar with this family to be able to follow along, but I think readers of this series won't have any issues. I had to spend a few moments refreshing myself, but I got there.
Romance! Adventure! Action! You literally can't go wrong with these books. I'm hoping that Arabella gets her own offshoot series (and soon) so I can get my fix again. Thank you, Ilona Andrews, for a wild ride.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|tiktok
August 16, 2022
4 stars
After an attack on the Warden of Texas, Catalina Baylor becomes the acting Warden and must work fast to figure out who tried to kill Linus. That on top of a missing magical spider, a Russian prince showing up, and the assassination of a powerful figure, Catalina and her family have a lot to face. But they soon find out something worse is coming and they need to be prepared.
It’s funny to me that these books are marketed as romance when to me, they are very much urban fantasy. While I love the romance in these books, they feel like 10% of the plot and the other 90% is urban fantasy action sequences. I think the publishers could have passed this off in a broader market with just a cover change but maybe that’s me.
I love the writing style of Ilona Andrews, my attention gets grabbed quickly and I get sucked into the story. Even though it’s been a while since I read the last book I was able to get the hang of things again fairly quickly and enjoyed the ride. I’m sad this is Catalina’s last book, but hopefully we will get Arabella books soon? Because she’s an awesome character and deserves center focus if there are to be more.
Overall a great urban fantasy series with a sprinkle of a great romance, there’s a reason why I keep coming back to books written by Ilona Andrews.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
After an attack on the Warden of Texas, Catalina Baylor becomes the acting Warden and must work fast to figure out who tried to kill Linus. That on top of a missing magical spider, a Russian prince showing up, and the assassination of a powerful figure, Catalina and her family have a lot to face. But they soon find out something worse is coming and they need to be prepared.
It’s funny to me that these books are marketed as romance when to me, they are very much urban fantasy. While I love the romance in these books, they feel like 10% of the plot and the other 90% is urban fantasy action sequences. I think the publishers could have passed this off in a broader market with just a cover change but maybe that’s me.
I love the writing style of Ilona Andrews, my attention gets grabbed quickly and I get sucked into the story. Even though it’s been a while since I read the last book I was able to get the hang of things again fairly quickly and enjoyed the ride. I’m sad this is Catalina’s last book, but hopefully we will get Arabella books soon? Because she’s an awesome character and deserves center focus if there are to be more.
Overall a great urban fantasy series with a sprinkle of a great romance, there’s a reason why I keep coming back to books written by Ilona Andrews.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
August 30, 2022
Thank you to the Andrews for supplying an early copy to read. You are all in for a treat!
Well it is officially out and listening to Ruby Fever was just as much fun, if not more so than reading it. Catalina has really come into her own and when Linus ends up comatose she becomes the acting Warden and has a pretty big mystery to solve along with figuring out how to keep the members of her house alive when the inevitable battle between with Alessandro's nemesis Arkon comes to a head.
So there are people out to get house Baylor, a Russian prince mixed up in this mess somehow not to mention an evil Grandmother to keep in check. Ruby Fever was full of all the things I love about books by Ilona Andrews. Great characters! Seriously while I adore all the Baylors the magical moments with Matilda and some of the other smaller part side characters are gems sprinkled throughout the story. But moments with Matilda are totally my favorites.
The stories are always smart and full of action without making them just talking between fight scenes. The dialogue between characters is smart, funny and really reminds me of what a family should be with how all the Baylors are there for each other.
Can we just say that when our favorite Evil Grandmother and the secret Grandmother finally get some page time together it was just a fantastic culmination of that arc of the story. Well thought out and executed fantastically.
The Andrews did Catalina justice in this final book with her as the main PoV. They have even given us a glimpse into what a book with Arabella as the lead might look like and who her love interest might be. Color me so interested. I can see so many possibilities for her book(s). The only sad point of this is that now I will have to wait until the next Andrews book comes out. I can't wait.
Well it is officially out and listening to Ruby Fever was just as much fun, if not more so than reading it. Catalina has really come into her own and when Linus ends up comatose she becomes the acting Warden and has a pretty big mystery to solve along with figuring out how to keep the members of her house alive when the inevitable battle between with Alessandro's nemesis Arkon comes to a head.
“You got a promotion with extra responsibilities but without pay or additional benefits.” Mom smiled. “I’m so proud of you. You’re officially a successful adult.”
So there are people out to get house Baylor, a Russian prince mixed up in this mess somehow not to mention an evil Grandmother to keep in check. Ruby Fever was full of all the things I love about books by Ilona Andrews. Great characters! Seriously while I adore all the Baylors the magical moments with Matilda and some of the other smaller part side characters are gems sprinkled throughout the story. But moments with Matilda are totally my favorites.
“If you try to separate from her in any way . . .” “She will bark?” Konstantin asked. “Yes. If she barks for longer than one minute, the electronic sensor in her collar will send an alert. Cutting the collar or removing it will also trigger an alert.” Matilda stared at him. “If anything happens to Rooster or her collar, I will know. I will come. I will bring friends. I hope we understand each other.”
The stories are always smart and full of action without making them just talking between fight scenes. The dialogue between characters is smart, funny and really reminds me of what a family should be with how all the Baylors are there for each other.
Can we just say that when our favorite Evil Grandmother and the secret Grandmother finally get some page time together it was just a fantastic culmination of that arc of the story. Well thought out and executed fantastically.
The Andrews did Catalina justice in this final book with her as the main PoV. They have even given us a glimpse into what a book with Arabella as the lead might look like and who her love interest might be. Color me so interested. I can see so many possibilities for her book(s). The only sad point of this is that now I will have to wait until the next Andrews book comes out. I can't wait.
August 29, 2022
I highly enjoyed this book! The end in particular. IA didn’t disappoint! Sure it’s not perfcet but now I’m looking forward to Arabella’s story -albeit I wasn’t a fan of it first.
Review to come!
Review to come!
August 28, 2022
4 ☆
Ruby Fever by Ilona Andrews concludes Catalina Baylor's trilogy. When she was first introduced in the Hidden Legacy series, she was just 17 and known as the quiet middle sister. Now 22, Catalina has been propelled along the fast track of adulting after becoming the head of House Baylor in their cut-throat magic-based society. It was difficult enough to step into elder sister Nevada's shoes as the Head, but Catalina had to do so at the end of the three-year safe period for nascent Houses. One of those threats came from her own paternal grandmother, truth-seeker Victoria Tremaine, who wanted to secure the continuation of House Tremaine at the expense of House Baylor.
Linus Duncan had served as one of two witnesses to the formation of House Baylor. Not all were pleased when Duncan, who is the secret Warden of Texas, deputized Catalina, especially as the position carries a low survival rate. But fortuitously, Alessandro Sagredo, a very powerful anti-stasi mage, had also been roped in by Duncan to serve as the Warden's equivalent of a bailiff and as Catalina's bodyguard.
In Emerald Blaze, it was revealed that the Osiris Serum, which activated latent magical abilities, had been stolen by Arkan, an assassin trained by the Russian Imperium. The theft has been hushed up but it's imperative that the Office of the Warden retrieve the serum and punish the perpetrator. Because it's beginning to appear that Arkan has solved Osiris' lethal side effect issue and is amassing his own magically-mighty forces.
Ruby Fever is the thrilling culmination and resolution of all of the external threats. Alessandro has his own grudge against Arkan, for he had murdered Alessandro's father. Catalina fears losing Alessandro as he seeks to avenge his father's killing. But a final confrontation is inevitable. The question is whether Catalina and the Office of the Warden can even the odds and prevail. And the face-off is imminent because a shockingly public murder bears the hallmarks of Arkan's team.
This e-ARC of Ruby Fever doesn't answer all the questions I have, and I wanted more from the ending. But after a start that's heavy on exposition, the authors turn up the Texan heat and deliver adrenaline-filled skirmishes, a specialty of House Andrews, that culminate in the final one-to-one showdown. Many characters pass through this installment so the key family members who provide comedic dialogue have shortened stage times. Readers unfamiliar with the Hidden Legacy series might be hard-pressed to appreciate fully all of the crucial characters' motivations. Overall, Ruby Fever is very satisfying but as usual the devoted fans of IA, aka the "Book Devouring Horde," will clamor for more.
IA bonus short story "The Cool Aunt" to be read after Emerald Blaze and snippets of Ruby Fever:
https://ilona-andrews.com/the-cool-aunt/
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-ba...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ru...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/sn...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/fr...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-te...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-pl...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/snippe...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/re...
Baylor family tree
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ba...
Thank you to the authors, Avon (an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers), and Netgalley for providing me with a digital ARC. My review reflects my candid assessment and feelings. Quotations in this review are from an uncorrected proof (ISBN 978-0-06-287840-3) and may differ from the final version. Publication date is August 23, 2022.
"I asked for backup," [Catalina] said.
"And?"
"It's not coming."
"Did you expect it would?"
"Yes, I kind of did. I asked them for advice, and they made me --- and wished me Godspeed."
"You got a promotion with extra responsibilities but without pay or additional benefits." Mom smiled. "I'm so proud of you. You're officially a successful adult."
Ruby Fever by Ilona Andrews concludes Catalina Baylor's trilogy. When she was first introduced in the Hidden Legacy series, she was just 17 and known as the quiet middle sister. Now 22, Catalina has been propelled along the fast track of adulting after becoming the head of House Baylor in their cut-throat magic-based society. It was difficult enough to step into elder sister Nevada's shoes as the Head, but Catalina had to do so at the end of the three-year safe period for nascent Houses. One of those threats came from her own paternal grandmother, truth-seeker Victoria Tremaine, who wanted to secure the continuation of House Tremaine at the expense of House Baylor.
Linus Duncan had served as one of two witnesses to the formation of House Baylor. Not all were pleased when Duncan, who is the secret Warden of Texas, deputized Catalina, especially as the position carries a low survival rate. But fortuitously, Alessandro Sagredo, a very powerful anti-stasi mage, had also been roped in by Duncan to serve as the Warden's equivalent of a bailiff and as Catalina's bodyguard.
In Emerald Blaze, it was revealed that the Osiris Serum, which activated latent magical abilities, had been stolen by Arkan, an assassin trained by the Russian Imperium. The theft has been hushed up but it's imperative that the Office of the Warden retrieve the serum and punish the perpetrator. Because it's beginning to appear that Arkan has solved Osiris' lethal side effect issue and is amassing his own magically-mighty forces.
The Keeper held it up to the light and the die sparkled. A ruby?
"The fate of the mage." The Keeper showed me one side with the Greek letter Z. "Zeta. Sacrifice."
He turned the die to display a different side. "Beta. Demon."
Another turn. "Lambda. Growth. The three fates awaiting those who risk the [Osiris] serum. Death, distortion, or power."
Ruby Fever is the thrilling culmination and resolution of all of the external threats. Alessandro has his own grudge against Arkan, for he had murdered Alessandro's father. Catalina fears losing Alessandro as he seeks to avenge his father's killing. But a final confrontation is inevitable. The question is whether Catalina and the Office of the Warden can even the odds and prevail. And the face-off is imminent because a shockingly public murder bears the hallmarks of Arkan's team.
This e-ARC of Ruby Fever doesn't answer all the questions I have, and I wanted more from the ending. But after a start that's heavy on exposition, the authors turn up the Texan heat and deliver adrenaline-filled skirmishes, a specialty of House Andrews, that culminate in the final one-to-one showdown. Many characters pass through this installment so the key family members who provide comedic dialogue have shortened stage times. Readers unfamiliar with the Hidden Legacy series might be hard-pressed to appreciate fully all of the crucial characters' motivations. Overall, Ruby Fever is very satisfying but as usual the devoted fans of IA, aka the "Book Devouring Horde," will clamor for more.
IA bonus short story "The Cool Aunt" to be read after Emerald Blaze and snippets of Ruby Fever:
https://ilona-andrews.com/the-cool-aunt/
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-ba...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ru...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/sn...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/fr...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-te...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/the-pl...
https://ilona-andrews.com/2021/snippe...
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2022/re...
Baylor family tree
https://www.ilona-andrews.com/2021/ba...
Thank you to the authors, Avon (an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers), and Netgalley for providing me with a digital ARC. My review reflects my candid assessment and feelings. Quotations in this review are from an uncorrected proof (ISBN 978-0-06-287840-3) and may differ from the final version. Publication date is August 23, 2022.
April 3, 2023
This is my favorite book in Catalina's trilogy. Maybe because it is not heavily romantic based as I don't really care about Catalina and Alessandro's romance or her as a character and I liked the nonstop action and the twist and reveals.
Finally, we get some answers.
Two things I want to point out:
1. Some of the plot explanation are annoying because they negate the first trilogy and the premise and character decisions which lets me believe it was a spur-of-the-moment decision of the authors - a shame really
2. WE NEED ARABELLA'S BOOKS!!!!
Leon's book would be well appreciated and wanted too.
----------------------------------------------
Before reading
new release date: early 2022
actually...
it is August 2022 sooooo
how sad and the hateful person you have to be to rate a book a one-star when the book is not EVEN WRITTEN yet?!
Finally, we get some answers.
Two things I want to point out:
1. Some of the plot explanation are annoying because they negate the first trilogy and the premise and character decisions which lets me believe it was a spur-of-the-moment decision of the authors - a shame really
2. WE NEED ARABELLA'S BOOKS!!!!
Leon's book would be well appreciated and wanted too.
----------------------------------------------
Before reading
new release date: early 2022
actually...
it is August 2022 sooooo
how sad and the hateful person you have to be to rate a book a one-star when the book is not EVEN WRITTEN yet?!
August 27, 2022
– 3.5-3.75 stars
this is more of a overall review for Catalina’s trilogy than for Ruby Fever itself:
→ honestly i started to read Catalina’s (h) story more to collect Rogan & Nevada breadcrumbs, but i realized very soon that there are zero crumbs to collect since Rogan & Nevada are barely in the book. but on the way i really fell in love with Catalina’s character so much and now she’s one of my favorite heroines! i never thought that anyone in this series could top Nevada for me, but Catalina is just that girl who is a badass, but her love for her family is beautiful and makes her vulnerable that she dethroned Nevada. sorry Nevada you’re still a boss bitch, but Catalina is just 🥰😩🥵 this girl carried this series on her back. if it wasn’t for Catalina i would given her books more like 3 stars, but i love Catalina too much to do that.
→ on the other hand i can’t say the same about Alessandro (H) who can’t hold a candle to Rogan. i don’t dislike him, but never warmed up to him either and wouldn't have teared up too badly if something actually happened to him at the end. he felt like such a secondary character even tho it was about Catalina and him for three whole books, but i don’t think i know him at all. he has some cool powers, but overall he was so pale compared to the rest of the characters and took a back seat.
→ this series is one of the few series where i don’t even mind when the romance is not the main plot, because so much is happening, but most of all i adore the Baylor family to pieces. i could read about Catalina’s interaction with Arabella, Grandma Frieda, Bern, Leon and Mommy Penelope forever. these family bonds are better than the romance anyway. it helps that the magic system and magical powers are so interesting that i’m invested in the action plot.
→ the joke is on me that i said i was invested in the plot, but didn’t understand half of what was actually happening, cause some things were all connected to events that happened in the previous books and i barely remember anything, so when characters like Adam Pierce showed up he seemed familiar, but i was like WHO? or when things started to unravel with Linus and some conspiracy plot i don’t remember shit lmao. kudos to Ilona Andrews for holding my interest, despite being in a constant state of confusion.
→ the worst crime Ilona Andrews did to me is making me hate Victoria Tremaine in Nevada's books to lowkey liking that ice cold bitch in Catalina's book. the audacity, the nerve, the gall. i was not ready to let of my hatred yet. but only respect for Grandma Tremaine, cause that woman is a strategy mastermind and i just know that no one can beat her in chess. her mind is insane.
→ Arabella and Mihail?? is their story next??
┍━━━━━━━━»•» «•«━┑
HIDDEN LEGAY SERIES // CATALINA BAYLOR'S TRILOGY
#0.5 Diamond Fire – 3 stars
#1 Sapphire Flames – 3 stars
#2 Emerald Blaze – 3.5 stars
#3 Ruby Fever – 3.5-3.75 stars
┕━»•» «•«━━━━━━━━┙
this is more of a overall review for Catalina’s trilogy than for Ruby Fever itself:
→ honestly i started to read Catalina’s (h) story more to collect Rogan & Nevada breadcrumbs, but i realized very soon that there are zero crumbs to collect since Rogan & Nevada are barely in the book. but on the way i really fell in love with Catalina’s character so much and now she’s one of my favorite heroines! i never thought that anyone in this series could top Nevada for me, but Catalina is just that girl who is a badass, but her love for her family is beautiful and makes her vulnerable that she dethroned Nevada. sorry Nevada you’re still a boss bitch, but Catalina is just 🥰😩🥵 this girl carried this series on her back. if it wasn’t for Catalina i would given her books more like 3 stars, but i love Catalina too much to do that.
→ on the other hand i can’t say the same about Alessandro (H) who can’t hold a candle to Rogan. i don’t dislike him, but never warmed up to him either and wouldn't have teared up too badly if something actually happened to him at the end. he felt like such a secondary character even tho it was about Catalina and him for three whole books, but i don’t think i know him at all. he has some cool powers, but overall he was so pale compared to the rest of the characters and took a back seat.
→ this series is one of the few series where i don’t even mind when the romance is not the main plot, because so much is happening, but most of all i adore the Baylor family to pieces. i could read about Catalina’s interaction with Arabella, Grandma Frieda, Bern, Leon and Mommy Penelope forever. these family bonds are better than the romance anyway. it helps that the magic system and magical powers are so interesting that i’m invested in the action plot.
→ the joke is on me that i said i was invested in the plot, but didn’t understand half of what was actually happening, cause some things were all connected to events that happened in the previous books and i barely remember anything, so when characters like Adam Pierce showed up he seemed familiar, but i was like WHO? or when things started to unravel with Linus and some conspiracy plot i don’t remember shit lmao. kudos to Ilona Andrews for holding my interest, despite being in a constant state of confusion.
→ the worst crime Ilona Andrews did to me is making me hate Victoria Tremaine in Nevada's books to lowkey liking that ice cold bitch in Catalina's book. the audacity, the nerve, the gall. i was not ready to let of my hatred yet. but only respect for Grandma Tremaine, cause that woman is a strategy mastermind and i just know that no one can beat her in chess. her mind is insane.
→ Arabella and Mihail?? is their story next??
┍━━━━━━━━»•» «•«━┑
HIDDEN LEGAY SERIES // CATALINA BAYLOR'S TRILOGY
#0.5 Diamond Fire – 3 stars
#1 Sapphire Flames – 3 stars
#2 Emerald Blaze – 3.5 stars
#3 Ruby Fever – 3.5-3.75 stars
┕━»•» «•«━━━━━━━━┙
March 21, 2022
An epic conclusion to an epic series.
Full RTC closer to release date.
Full RTC closer to release date.
![Profile Image for Anna [Bran. San. Stan].](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1593184464i/98245866._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
February 25, 2024
4.5 stars. I simply loved this! The plot was far more engaging than that of the previous book. I just prefer human adversaries to magical creatures – and this book provided a lot of them. I will say, though, that the ending felt rather rushed and the final battle could have used some more page time. I also regretted that Nevada and Rogan were written out of that conflict; I would have loved to see the entire family in action.
On the whole, I would have enjoyed seeing more of my favorite couple in Catalina’s books; Nevada and Rogan’s arc just hit me differently. I somehow connected more to those two characters. It also helped that I preferred their magical abilities (truthseeker and telekinetic) to Catalina’s and Alessandro’s (siren and antistasi); they were just cooler to me and also made for a better visual.
In hindsight, it would have been better to read all those seven books in this series without taking such a long break in between. The first trilogy with its plot and characters became relevant again here and I had a hard time piecing it all together. But I already know I will reread this series at some point so I don’t mind too much.
All things considered, I think the Nevada trilogy might well be my second-favorite IA series, Kate Daniels taking the prime spot. I’m not sure about ranking the second arc, to be honest. I loved most of The Edge series and The Innkeeper Chronicles as well, both series bringing very different things to the table; the latter having a lighter tone for example. I’ll just have to make a statement about my general love for all things Ilona Andrews and leave it at that.
PS: I really hope Arabella will get her book(s) at some point!
On the whole, I would have enjoyed seeing more of my favorite couple in Catalina’s books; Nevada and Rogan’s arc just hit me differently. I somehow connected more to those two characters. It also helped that I preferred their magical abilities (truthseeker and telekinetic) to Catalina’s and Alessandro’s (siren and antistasi); they were just cooler to me and also made for a better visual.
In hindsight, it would have been better to read all those seven books in this series without taking such a long break in between. The first trilogy with its plot and characters became relevant again here and I had a hard time piecing it all together. But I already know I will reread this series at some point so I don’t mind too much.
All things considered, I think the Nevada trilogy might well be my second-favorite IA series, Kate Daniels taking the prime spot. I’m not sure about ranking the second arc, to be honest. I loved most of The Edge series and The Innkeeper Chronicles as well, both series bringing very different things to the table; the latter having a lighter tone for example. I’ll just have to make a statement about my general love for all things Ilona Andrews and leave it at that.
PS: I really hope Arabella will get her book(s) at some point!
April 25, 2022
3.5/5
I have MANY thoughts about this one.
This might be an unpopular opinion but I was never entirely swept away by the Alessandro & Catalina pairing. I had some hope after the 2nd book, but here we reverted back to me feeling like Alessandro was an afterthought. With the OG Nevada & Connor trilogy, I thought the two were on equal footing, but not here. In this installment, it got to the point where I sometimes forgot Alessandro was even around. This brings me to my main disappointment: the romance is lackluster for me.
Ruby Fever is also sooo much plot and action (I would argue that there were too many threads), and I understand why because the authors are trying to tie the loose ends, but I found myself completely zoning out at times. I think this is where better balance between the romance and the plot would have helped.
What I did love was the secondary cast. Victoria, Linus, Arabella (MY QUEEN, MY BABY), Cornelius, and Matilda were scene-stealers. I love the dynamic between all these characters and when they are together, there's no way not to crack up.
Anyways, that being said, I desperately hope we see an Arabella-centered series. My girl deserves it!
I have MANY thoughts about this one.
This might be an unpopular opinion but I was never entirely swept away by the Alessandro & Catalina pairing. I had some hope after the 2nd book, but here we reverted back to me feeling like Alessandro was an afterthought. With the OG Nevada & Connor trilogy, I thought the two were on equal footing, but not here. In this installment, it got to the point where I sometimes forgot Alessandro was even around. This brings me to my main disappointment: the romance is lackluster for me.
Ruby Fever is also sooo much plot and action (I would argue that there were too many threads), and I understand why because the authors are trying to tie the loose ends, but I found myself completely zoning out at times. I think this is where better balance between the romance and the plot would have helped.
What I did love was the secondary cast. Victoria, Linus, Arabella (MY QUEEN, MY BABY), Cornelius, and Matilda were scene-stealers. I love the dynamic between all these characters and when they are together, there's no way not to crack up.
Anyways, that being said, I desperately hope we see an Arabella-centered series. My girl deserves it!
Currently reading
May 4, 2022YES!! I got approved for the ARC on NetGalley! Really looking forward to this read!
Something about the title "Ruby Fever" - and that cover image - has made me start singing the old disco song "Boogie Fever" ...
Something about the title "Ruby Fever" - and that cover image - has made me start singing the old disco song "Boogie Fever" ...
July 9, 2024
Reread on July 3, 2024: Find someone who loves you as much as Ilona Andrews loves a magical, superpowered baby that defies the established worldbuilding rules. Read via audio (narrated by Emily Rankin).
***
First read on July 31, 2022:
I have zero objectivity regarding this author/series and won’t pretend otherwise. I’m emotional — so many mysteries from the first five books (Conspiracies! Grandparents! Siren secrets!) got wrapped up, but there are still lingering questions. 😭 I know IA doesn’t have plans to write more, but they set up Arabella and her potential love interests (yes, plural) SO WELL. My neighbors could hear my shrieking after the epilogue. I’m sailing on the ship and no one can stop me.
FYI: Catalina’s third book does have less romance than, say, WILDFIRE (Nevada’s third book), so set your expectations accordingly. I still enjoyed the hell out of the ride, but this definitely reads more like a romantic urban fantasy with an established/secure relationship and no major romantic conflict. Understandable because they’ve been together for thirteen months at this point (in contrast to Nevada, who has no time jump between WHITE HOT and WILDFIRE).
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
***
First read on July 31, 2022:
I have zero objectivity regarding this author/series and won’t pretend otherwise. I’m emotional — so many mysteries from the first five books (Conspiracies! Grandparents! Siren secrets!) got wrapped up, but there are still lingering questions. 😭 I know IA doesn’t have plans to write more, but they set up Arabella and her potential love interests (yes, plural) SO WELL. My neighbors could hear my shrieking after the epilogue. I’m sailing on the ship and no one can stop me.
FYI: Catalina’s third book does have less romance than, say, WILDFIRE (Nevada’s third book), so set your expectations accordingly. I still enjoyed the hell out of the ride, but this definitely reads more like a romantic urban fantasy with an established/secure relationship and no major romantic conflict. Understandable because they’ve been together for thirteen months at this point (in contrast to Nevada, who has no time jump between WHITE HOT and WILDFIRE).
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2022
4.5 stars - Are we surprised that Ilona Andrews stuck the landing on this trilogy? No, no we are not. It was so satisfying to see most of my theories come true and see this chapter of the story wrap up! We got so much page time with Alessandro & Catalina together, and still had plenty of time with our favs, as well as some INTRIGUING new characters! My standout side character was Matilda, can't wait for her to grow up, and it looks like we're getting set up for the third trilogy starring Arabella which YESSSSSSSSSSS, I cannot wait! All in all, a worthy finale & cannot wait for more in this world! I think quality wise Hidden Legacy is the best series they have written
March 17, 2024
2024 Re-read
Don't believe the GR counter on this one, I have read this more than twice. Since it's the most recent book in the Hidden Legacy series it's the least repeated in my reading life, so I don't have it practically memorized yet. Some days just beg for an Ilona Andrews repeat. Now I hope to return to regularly scheduled reading.
As expected, there is some added emphasis on Arabella Baylor during the course of this novel. Catalina and Alessandro may be the centre of the action, but we get a bit more information about the youngest sister, culminating in the epilogue which is in her first-person POV. I do hope that the Andrews eventually write a trilogy for Arabella, which from this set-up it does seem like they mean to.
And it's not only Arabella that I'm curious about. There are plenty of family revelations in this volume and I'm interested to see how everything shakes out. Let's face it, I will read whatever the authors will write, but I adore this particular world and have my fingers crossed for a prompt return to it. In the meantime, I'll reread as necessary.
Original Review
This morning found me driving to my local bookstore to snag a copy of Ruby Fever. I checked their website yesterday and sure enough, they had done a soft release and there were two copies available. I checked again early this morning and the inventory was reduced to one. Which is why I drove several kilometres and lurked outside the store until the door was unlocked.
I'm ever so glad I went to the effort. After doing my appointed tasks for the day, I settled in to read the conclusion of Catalina's story. So well plotted! The action was nonstop and the loose story threads were neatly woven into the ending. Arkan's forces keep on coming, Catalina must stretch herself yet again, and all the generations, in-laws, and out-laws must cooperate to survive.
Many of the relationships get sorted out too. Bern and Runa are headed for marriage, things seem to be going well for Penelope, and we just need to sort the two youngest Baylors. Arabella certainly has some options, which I hope the Andrews will write eventually. Leon needs to meet his match too. Surely the authors have something in mind—Leon needs balance.
Happy sigh! I have no doubt that I will read it again soon.
Don't believe the GR counter on this one, I have read this more than twice. Since it's the most recent book in the Hidden Legacy series it's the least repeated in my reading life, so I don't have it practically memorized yet. Some days just beg for an Ilona Andrews repeat. Now I hope to return to regularly scheduled reading.
As expected, there is some added emphasis on Arabella Baylor during the course of this novel. Catalina and Alessandro may be the centre of the action, but we get a bit more information about the youngest sister, culminating in the epilogue which is in her first-person POV. I do hope that the Andrews eventually write a trilogy for Arabella, which from this set-up it does seem like they mean to.
And it's not only Arabella that I'm curious about. There are plenty of family revelations in this volume and I'm interested to see how everything shakes out. Let's face it, I will read whatever the authors will write, but I adore this particular world and have my fingers crossed for a prompt return to it. In the meantime, I'll reread as necessary.
Original Review
This morning found me driving to my local bookstore to snag a copy of Ruby Fever. I checked their website yesterday and sure enough, they had done a soft release and there were two copies available. I checked again early this morning and the inventory was reduced to one. Which is why I drove several kilometres and lurked outside the store until the door was unlocked.
I'm ever so glad I went to the effort. After doing my appointed tasks for the day, I settled in to read the conclusion of Catalina's story. So well plotted! The action was nonstop and the loose story threads were neatly woven into the ending. Arkan's forces keep on coming, Catalina must stretch herself yet again, and all the generations, in-laws, and out-laws must cooperate to survive.
Many of the relationships get sorted out too. Bern and Runa are headed for marriage, things seem to be going well for Penelope, and we just need to sort the two youngest Baylors. Arabella certainly has some options, which I hope the Andrews will write eventually. Leon needs to meet his match too. Surely the authors have something in mind—Leon needs balance.
Happy sigh! I have no doubt that I will read it again soon.
August 25, 2022
Somehow I had blocked out how long it has been since the last book. I think it is because this is a series I have read many times and will likely read many more times. A comfort series of books to be brought out whenever there is the need. I have to admit I liked the first three books with Nevada better than the next three with Catalina. Please don’t misunderstand, I loved all of them, but I liked Nevada as a heroine better. That being said I am super excited for the tease to the possible series for Arabella to get. I need those books to be written. I did like that a lot of plot lines, some stemming from the first book in this series, were wrapped up nicely in this one. I found the explanations of what I knew had to be but couldn’t believe to be excellent and make more sense than I had imaged. I love the writing style, the complexity, the vivid world and characters. And mixed through all of the adventure and magical combat and evil plotting there is always an excellent romance line woven into these books and this one did not disappoint.
July 23, 2023
Loved, loved loved! Everything came together nicely. I felt like nothing was left undone and I just fell in love with all these characters over, and over. The ending was incredible. The author could easily leave this series here. However, I hope she picks it back up and gives us a few more books because the possibilities are endless. Plus, who doesn't want more in the world you absolutely love?
I highly recommend reading this series in order due to the massive amount of information you learn about all the characters as each book builds the series. There are so many characters to fall in love with, and to fall in hate with. There are spoilers if you read this out of order. Trust me, you want to learn everything in its order. I speak in more detail of my love of these characters in my book one review if you need more incentive.
This is one of the best series I've read!
I highly recommend reading this series in order due to the massive amount of information you learn about all the characters as each book builds the series. There are so many characters to fall in love with, and to fall in hate with. There are spoilers if you read this out of order. Trust me, you want to learn everything in its order. I speak in more detail of my love of these characters in my book one review if you need more incentive.
This is one of the best series I've read!
August 24, 2022
I was on a writing deadline when Bookbub reminded me that Ilona Andrews's Ruby Fever had just released. The dilemma? Write my words for the day and savour Ruby Fever for post-deadline? Or smash through Ruby Fever and not sleep for three days in order to catch up...?
It wasn't even a choice. The Ilona Andrews writing team are my absolute favourite writers, and this series is my particular jam. Who needs sleep anyway?
And. It. Was. Epic.
In short: Catalina Baylor faces her biggest threat yet—the final showdown with Arkan, the assassin determined to kill her fiance, Alessandro Sagredo.
This one is a real page turner and doesn't let up until the end, but somehow, IA packs it full of wonderful character moments, sweet romantic scenes between the H/h, and the ability to join the extended Baylor family, if only for a day.
Seeing Catalina step into her power was one of the highlights of my read, and the mythology behind sirens is fascinating. IA kick ass when it comes to worldbuilding.
There was so much going on, that I am throughly in awe of all the threads IA were juggling. Note to those new to their work: Don't even attempt to start here. Go back to the beginning and kick it all off with Burn For Me.
I loved the addition of new characters. A couple of plot points didn't surprise me, but I was very surprised by the redemption of a certain evil grandmother. I'm desperate for Arabella to get her own trilogy—hello, Bear of Kamchatka. I want to know MORE about Augustine Montgomery. And sweet Leon deserves his own heroine.
Overall, this is just an epic, action-packed, hilarious series with characters you adore.
More, please.
It wasn't even a choice. The Ilona Andrews writing team are my absolute favourite writers, and this series is my particular jam. Who needs sleep anyway?
And. It. Was. Epic.
In short: Catalina Baylor faces her biggest threat yet—the final showdown with Arkan, the assassin determined to kill her fiance, Alessandro Sagredo.
This one is a real page turner and doesn't let up until the end, but somehow, IA packs it full of wonderful character moments, sweet romantic scenes between the H/h, and the ability to join the extended Baylor family, if only for a day.
Seeing Catalina step into her power was one of the highlights of my read, and the mythology behind sirens is fascinating. IA kick ass when it comes to worldbuilding.
There was so much going on, that I am throughly in awe of all the threads IA were juggling. Note to those new to their work: Don't even attempt to start here. Go back to the beginning and kick it all off with Burn For Me.
I loved the addition of new characters. A couple of plot points didn't surprise me, but I was very surprised by the redemption of a certain evil grandmother. I'm desperate for Arabella to get her own trilogy—hello, Bear of Kamchatka. I want to know MORE about Augustine Montgomery. And sweet Leon deserves his own heroine.
Overall, this is just an epic, action-packed, hilarious series with characters you adore.
More, please.
September 8, 2022
I always look forward to a new book from this pair of authors and so far they have never let me down.
Ruby Fever features Catalina, Prime of House Baylor and her partner Alessandro, and the book is absolutely action packed. Catalina's personal magic has been developing over the last few books and in this one she gets mad enough to call on everything she has. And it is pretty scary!
I enjoyed the way many of our favourite characters returned to this story as the family pulled together to fight back against the bad guys. The battles are awesome and the magic demonstrates the authors' tremendous creativity and imagination.
I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Ruby Fever features Catalina, Prime of House Baylor and her partner Alessandro, and the book is absolutely action packed. Catalina's personal magic has been developing over the last few books and in this one she gets mad enough to call on everything she has. And it is pretty scary!
I enjoyed the way many of our favourite characters returned to this story as the family pulled together to fight back against the bad guys. The battles are awesome and the magic demonstrates the authors' tremendous creativity and imagination.
I cannot wait to see what comes next.
November 17, 2022
THE END 😭😭😭 KILL ME NOW IT WAS SO GOOD!!!
The number one reason I’ve been putting off writing this review is that Covid has finally reached poor little me after 3 years of breezing through the pandemic without a positive test, and, boy, did it take me right out.
The second reason I’ve been putting off writing this review is because it makes me intensely depressed that I finished this series. Honestly, the only thing keeping me going right now is that I’ll get the chance to reread it over and over and over again. It’s that good!!!
Ruby Fever marks the ending of Catalina and Alessandro’s trilogy. I don’t know that I loved it more that Nevada and Connor’s story, but I don’t need to! They’re completely different things and they stand on their own.
Just like in the first trilogy, Catalina and Alessandro are rock solid in this third installment, and we get to enjoy their hard earned relationship and all the romance goodness while also getting to see them blow shit up, which, yes, please.
The Baylor family – plus Alessandro – have moved into an awesome compound with a number of different houses where each one of them can live with a little more privacy, but still be close by in case of one of their frequent enemy attacks or delicious dinner spreads.
Arkan, the infamous killer who murdered Alessandro’s father, is living rent-free in Catalina’s head. Her biggest worry is that Alessandro’s desire to kill him will result in self-destruction, leaving her to go on without him.
The main plot starts out with the assassination of the Speaker of the Texas Assembly and a mysterious attack on Warden Linus Duncan’s compound, which has left him incapacitated and possibly unable to be brought back to consciousness. This means, of course, that Catalina is now the Acting Warden and must shoulder everything that comes with it. I won’t spoil anything here, but let’s just say that the investigation into what happened leads the Baylors to make some pretty shocking discoveries about Linus and about other characters who have passed through the previous books.
We also learn a little bit about Nevada and Connor’s baby, Arthur, and his awesome (but terrifying?) powers, and what it will take for the both of them to acquire the knowledge they need in order to guide their son.
There were so many plot twists and revelations in this thing; by far, my favorite one was Catalina’s exploration of the other side of her Siren self, which is pretty damn dark and possessive and powerful and also very sexy if you’re Alessandro, lol.
Finally, we do get a glimpse of what might be in store for Arabella’s trilogy, and to say I’m excited about it is a gross understatement. I absolutely love her and will ship the hell of out her and Michael (right?! It will be Michael, right?!).
I loved every single second of reading this trilogy and can’t wait to go back to the beginning and reread everything so that I can understand all the little plot points I definitely missed along the way. ❤
The number one reason I’ve been putting off writing this review is that Covid has finally reached poor little me after 3 years of breezing through the pandemic without a positive test, and, boy, did it take me right out.
The second reason I’ve been putting off writing this review is because it makes me intensely depressed that I finished this series. Honestly, the only thing keeping me going right now is that I’ll get the chance to reread it over and over and over again. It’s that good!!!
Ruby Fever marks the ending of Catalina and Alessandro’s trilogy. I don’t know that I loved it more that Nevada and Connor’s story, but I don’t need to! They’re completely different things and they stand on their own.
Just like in the first trilogy, Catalina and Alessandro are rock solid in this third installment, and we get to enjoy their hard earned relationship and all the romance goodness while also getting to see them blow shit up, which, yes, please.
The Baylor family – plus Alessandro – have moved into an awesome compound with a number of different houses where each one of them can live with a little more privacy, but still be close by in case of one of their frequent enemy attacks or delicious dinner spreads.
Arkan, the infamous killer who murdered Alessandro’s father, is living rent-free in Catalina’s head. Her biggest worry is that Alessandro’s desire to kill him will result in self-destruction, leaving her to go on without him.
The main plot starts out with the assassination of the Speaker of the Texas Assembly and a mysterious attack on Warden Linus Duncan’s compound, which has left him incapacitated and possibly unable to be brought back to consciousness. This means, of course, that Catalina is now the Acting Warden and must shoulder everything that comes with it. I won’t spoil anything here, but let’s just say that the investigation into what happened leads the Baylors to make some pretty shocking discoveries about Linus and about other characters who have passed through the previous books.
We also learn a little bit about Nevada and Connor’s baby, Arthur, and his awesome (but terrifying?) powers, and what it will take for the both of them to acquire the knowledge they need in order to guide their son.
There were so many plot twists and revelations in this thing; by far, my favorite one was Catalina’s exploration of the other side of her Siren self, which is pretty damn dark and possessive and powerful and also very sexy if you’re Alessandro, lol.
Finally, we do get a glimpse of what might be in store for Arabella’s trilogy, and to say I’m excited about it is a gross understatement. I absolutely love her and will ship the hell of out her and Michael (right?! It will be Michael, right?!).
I loved every single second of reading this trilogy and can’t wait to go back to the beginning and reread everything so that I can understand all the little plot points I definitely missed along the way. ❤
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