This is a great wrap-up to the Hidden Legacies series. It starts a bit slow, but...

The Baylor family has a new home, and new and old problems. Catalina and Alessandro have some remaining issues to be worked through. It has all the hallmarks of Ilona Andrews' writing: humor, excitement, romance, and dashing feats of derring-do. Catalina, Alessandro, and Catalina’s family have their final showdown with the elusive mega-baddie Arkan in this book. Secrets are revealed, commitments are made, and battles are fought. The secondary characters are as entertaining as ever. Everything ends satisfactorily.

Definitely don't sleep on it if you've been joyously following along from the beginning of the series. And if you haven't, start with Nevada's trilogy to get a sense of this alternate reality Houston, where an experimental serum transformed some people into monsters, and gave others magical superpowers.

A continuation of Ilona Andrew's Hidden Legacy series featuring Cataline Baylor and Alessandro Sagredo. These two are by far my favorite couple in the series and while I found this book as enjoyable as its predecessors, the plot felt rushed. Reading Ilona Andrews always reminds me a bit of watching an action movie, so I'm prepared for the pace, but I still wanted more, especially since it is the conclusion to these two character's arc. I look forward to reading more about Catalina and Alessandro as the story continues with Arabella, Leon, and Bern (please give Bern his own series, he is my other favorite), but I do wish as readers, we were able to revel in their relationship more.

All the love for this one. The conclusion to Catalina and Alessandro’s arc was awesome! I think every Ilona Andrews gets better than the ones before! I await the next book impatiently!

This was an entertaining final chapter in Catalina's story. Loose ends that had been dangling throughout her trilogy were finally resolved and mysteries were revealed in a satisfactory way.

ardon me as I squeal. I can't believe it's time for the sixth novel in the Hidden Legacy series! For those new to the world, Ruby Fever is the sixth novel of the series but the third novel following Catalina Baylor.

Catalina Baylor is a Prime magic user and has a sworn duty to fulfill. While most of the world doesn't know about her duty, she is frequently all that stands between the general public and magical destruction.

That fact has never felt more accurate as Catalina finds herself standing in as the Warden of Texas. Worse, there's a battle brewing, and it is going to require all of Catalina's resources and allies to find a way through it.

“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.”

Ahhhh! I'm in love. No, seriously, I adore the Hidden Legacy series. Every time I dive into a new addition to this series, I know I will love it. And Ruby Fever is no exception to that rule, thank goodness!

Ruby Fever concludes the second set of three in this series, meaning readers should go into it knowing that it will conclude Catalina's arc. That isn't to say that she's gone – we saw Nevada from time to time during Catalina's series, after all. To see both previously leading ladies, we must first get another set of three to this series. Looking at you, Arabella. Your time to shine!

There are SO many reasons to love Catalina's addition to this series. For one thing, her perspective has always been slightly more political, given her job. For another, she's fierce and confident, and her ability set is fascinating. It makes for a pretty good combination, right?

Anyway, time to move on to the actual review of Ruby Fever. As the pivotal third novel, this book is packed to the brim of action, danger, and bloodshed. As Catalina continues to hunt down certain enemies, things have been building for a while. While there is certainly room for the story to carry on, much of the current concerns get wrapped up in this novel.

In other words, this book gets explosive. A few surprises were thrown into the mix, such as a surprise appearance (that I won't spoil), family drama, promotions, and a few more personal arcs. It made for a fast-paced read. I devoured this book and was surprised when I came to the ending. Granted, that may have been partially because I wasn't ready to conclude this part of the series. I never am.

Some sweet and bittersweet moments strewn throughout Ruby Fever, somehow finding the perfect balance between the two. Don't worry, there are also several funny moments, which are always appreciated.

While I'm sad to see Catalina's arc end, that epilogue already has my attention. And my imagination. I don't know if anything has been confirmed for Arabella's trilogy, but I will keep holding to that hope until told otherwise.

Ruby Fever is the sixth book in the Hidden Legacy series by Ilona Andrews. This is a series that should be read in order to fully understand the world and characters that have been built.

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.

Ruby Fever is the last book in Catalina's story arc, and I am sad to see her personal story wrap up, even though it means we must be something from Arabella's point of view soon. I really enjoyed her part of the story and think that this book was a great addition to the larger story. I though the action, mystery, and hints about the future were all very well balanced. I was engaged in the story the whole read, and while I saw some of the twists coming, everything was so well done that it did not matter. It was great seeing Catalina come into her own, and get a better understanding of herself and what she could do. Fans of the series will love the read and be looking forward to what ever come next in this world.

Ruby Fever is a must read for fans of the series.

Ruby Fever is an epic conclusion to the Hidden Legacy series. At least I think it's the conclusion. I wouldn't be sad if they kept this world going with new star characters. Ilona Andrews never fails to impress.

This was a good conclusion to Catalina's story. It wrapped up a lot of loose ends and answered remaining questions. I am hoping the author continues the series with Arabella's story.

I always enjoy the works of the Ilona Andrews writing team, and the worldbuilding in this series has so far been excellent. However, as the final book in the series, it was a bit of a letdown. The character development, which is usually excellent, felt completely stalled. The plot practically sidelined the main characters, as they weren't active players in the outcome. I found myself feeling like conclusions were rushed and unsupported and the characters lacked their usual depth. It makes me wonder if this book is the set-up to the next series (completing the three sisters saga I expect (but don't know) is coming), which would explain why is felt like a middle book.
Either way, it was a disappointing end to the series and to the characters.

This was such an incredible conclusion to the story so far.

I am just stunned at how well it all wrapped up and where we are now sitting with the storyline.

Eagerly awaiting more information on if we will be getting Arabella.

Ruby Fever marks the end of the story about the second Baylor sister, Catalina Baylor. I was invested in Catalina’s story midway through her older sister (Nevada Baylor)’s book and having read and reviewed all of Catalina’s books feels like the biggest achievement of my life because Ilona Andrews practically rank at #1 in my heart.

This novel truly packs a punch. In my head I see the authors having sat down and decided that they’re going to bring out the big guns this time and it was not going to be just for show. Andrews have rolled up their sleeves and thrown plot twists and emotional moments at the readers in ways we won’t be ready for.

The secondary characters in Ruby Fever we’ve seen over the last five books, the authors somehow manage to always have them all feel exactly as they’ve felt in the previous books. However, at the same time, they write unique individual growth arcs for each of them that fit perfectly to their situations and personalities. The secondary characters get a first mention simply because of how well developed and well written they are.

The best part of the primary characters that Andrews write is that they never write characters, couples, or relationships that aren’t flawed. Alessandro and Catalina bring some of their struggles to their relationship and, truly, only Andrews could write a healthy argument. As a reader, we may all have half a mind to take notes on good communication in difficult situations.

The plot is complex, because the plot has a bigger purpose than just telling a story. The plot reveals. There are multiple threads of sub-plots that coalesce into one gigantic plot that we almost never see coming. The book has connections across the series that as a reader we won’t be prepared for.

The pace of the book is fantastic. The editing clearly has been done to perfection with not a single moment or scene being more or less than it needs to be. This is the first book where I specifically felt that there wasn’t a single moment to waste or breathe; events just kept happening on the heels of one another. Perhaps this was because it was the conclusion of one part of the series and the foundation for the next part of the series.

I would recommend the readers do a complete series reread before starting this book, simply so that the connections that happen across series are better understood and the impact of the story is greater. This is especially helpful because some of the worldbuilding in this book builds on the awareness the readers have of the past and connects it to the present scenario.

The book brings a fantastic end to Catalina’s story and I still can’t believe it’s the last book in her series. I’ve related the most to Catalina so far and I can’t wait to go back and reread the series again.

Andrews have set the stage for the next part of the series and while I’m excited for what is coming next, I realised while I was reading this book that I would be ready to read a trilogy about any character in that series.

This book, like every other in the series, does have a lot of violence, blood, gore, threat to loved ones, and near-death situations, so please check trigger warnings before reading.

This second trilogy in the Hidden Legacy series starring middle Baylor daughter, Catalina, has been quite a ride. At the end of the previous book there were still so many dangling threads, many dating back to the first trilogy, that I wasn't sure how the Andrews would manage to tie them all up, but I never should have doubted them. I'm happy to say that pretty much all of the outstanding questions were answered and all loose ends secured. Along the way, there was plenty of magic, romance, strange and arcane creatures, and appearances by all of our favorite secondary characters.

I think the best thing about this trilogy was the way Catalina grew into her own power and strength and by the end emerged as the true head of a powerful magical house. She's not standing in anyone's shadow and aptly demonstrated that she deserves her position, both as the head of her house, and as the Deputy Warden of the state of Texas. As for her romance with Alessandro, in the first book, it was barely there, but by the end of the book, they were true partners and equals, ready to move forward together. A few of the revelations about various characters were a bit too convenient, but I still enjoyed them.

I have a feeling I'll be rereading both this trilogy as well as the previous one many times to better pick up on all of the hints and foreshadowing that I missed the first time around. The authors have indicated that it will probably be several years before they are able to revisit this world and give the youngest Baylor sister, Arabella, a storyline of her own, but I'm hoping that in the meantime, they may throw us a bone in the form of a short story or novella about a secondary character - Leon? Augustine? Catalina and Alessandro's wedding? Whatever it is, I'll be here for it. My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley, Avon, and Harper Voyager for this eARC.

I don't know how Ilona and Gordon do it. I loved Nevada and Connor's story, which drew me into the Hidden Legacy series. When the focus transitioned to Catalina and Alessandro, their love story didn't draw me in as much, but the plot was fast and furious. So, I went into this book thinking another book about Catalina and Alessandro? And the sixth book in the series? This will probably inspire tepid feelings at best.

I was wrong.

This book was <i>very</i> good! There were aspects of A and C's relationship that were incredibly enticing, and the banter—yum.

"You're magic doesn't work on me. Also, I'm big and strong, and an excellent swimmer."

"You don't get it," I told him. "How were you not afraid?"

"Oh I was. I was mortally afraid of being caught by your entire family while having sex in the pool.”

We learned more about Alessandro's family and the dynamics he had to deal with and still dealt with. And it brought some more interesting characters into the fold, uncovered family secrets, showed off new abilities, etc.

Bottom line: It's entertaining and a fun read. The plot is fast-paced, but it still manages to stay light. And I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed that the next one is about Arabella because I am ready for that! Also, if you haven't already, check out Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series. You won't regret it.

Ruby Fever has been one of highly anticipated reads of this year & as usual Ilona Andrews delivered a brilliant addition to the series! When this hit my kindle, I jumped straight in instead of re-reading the earlier books but found it no problem as IA included lots of detail on the characters and important info that helped me remember anything I might have forgotten. Really hoping there’ll be a future spin off series on Arabella & later with Matilda.

Perfect ending to Catalina & Alessandro’s story, highly recommend!

My heart abhors a cliffhanger, so I saved Books 4 through 6 to read in one ravenous gulp, like a misanthropic teenager on a family vacation.
At the start of Book 4 Catalina Baylor has taken up the mantle as head of her scrappy magical House, but enemies still lurk around every corner. As a siren she has powers that beguile and entice, but push a little too hard and people become possessive and even violent. (Hence her training with bladed weapons.) It makes it hard to have friends, or to trust any expression of romantic interest — especially from the social media heartthrob Alessandro Sagredo, an Italian count with three broken engagements to his name and a lot of powerful magic of his own.

This is genre fiction at its splashiest: mystery and violence and sarcasm and desire in a Houston not quite like our own. Everyone is deadly, and every character has a dark side that gets revealed as the series unfolds — of course Alessandro is a brilliant assassin. The more world-shaking magic we see, the more the difference between a hero and a villain gets pared down to a single, swordlike question: How do you choose to wield your power — attack and accumulate, or defend and redeem?

It’s always a thrill when a paranormal series knows just how to aim its metaphors, and this one is particularly — forgive me — on point. Pair it with a comfortable seat in a shady spot and there’s no better entertainment for a sunny afternoon.

I'm so glad that the final book in Catalina's trilogy is out now! Do I wish this series would never end? Well, yes we'll be talking about that later😆 But, at the same time I'm also very happy that we could find out the answers to many things that had been on my brain for 2+ years 🤣

If you didn't already know I'm a huge IA fan! I could probably set up an altar and worship their books everyday 😂 I know I'll definitely enjoy whatever they write and Ruby Fever didn't disappoint me at all! We get to see the whole Baylor family back together and Catalina was at her best in this one! I've really enjoyed watching her as she became more confident in her powers and choices! She's grown so much over the course of these books! And Alessandro has me equally convinced. I must admit I was a bit skeptical about him in Sapphire Flames (also because I loved Rogan too much😆) but he had won me over in Emerald Blaze and he's absolutely amazing in this one now!

I must say this one was full of action, with not a moment for the characters to take a break and I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. No complaints though, because I loved it that way, and with trademark IA humor and sarcasm we have lots of funny moments and family bonding (which has always been my fave part!)

We also get to find more about the secrets that Victoria, Linus and a few other characters have been keeping. We also get to meet some new characters from the Russian Imperial family(will we get to meet a certain someone in the future books?). Anyway no spoilers for me, but I enjoyed every bit of it! Frankly, I just didn't want it to end 😢 But, I loved the epilogue at the same time! I really really really want more, especially a trilogy for Arabella alone! Pretty please? And if we do, will we have Mihail or Michael as the love interest?😆 *prays to the writing gods*

Well, if me screaming about Ilona Andrews' books every month isn't enough, this is another not so casual reminder for you to pick up their books and read them! Trust me you won't regret it!❣️

*I was provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

Ruby Fever concludes the Catalina Baylor portion of the Hidden Legacy series, and much like the rest of this series, it did not disappoint. Ruby Fever was packed with action, magic, team work, family and drama. I moved to Houston around the inception of this series, so I have loved “growing” into my new residence along with this series, and seeing all the familiar areas and places mentioned. I can’t help but “look” for Nevada, Connor, Catalina and friends as I happen upon places like Buffalo Bayou, River Oaks, etc.

As we know, Catalina is the secret deputy to the Warden of Texas, Linus Duncan. But when Linus is incapacitated, Catalina is required to step up and deal with matters as not only the Acting Warden, but also as Head of House Baylor, and life partner to Alessandro. There was so much for Catalina to unpack in this installment, and she handled it all with aplomb. Over the course of this series, Catalina has grown into her powers and personality and we have followed along with her emotional coming-of-age that had been stunted for so long. She finally accepts herself and her magical nature in this finale, and it was beautiful to behold. I love the dual sides of her nature as they appeared and were explained. She has proven herself a capable leader in all aspects of her life.

Alessandro continues to prove his love for Catalina, though in an effort to not to add to Catalina’s burden, he still isn’t as forthcoming as he should be in all aspects. I think he finally comes to the realization that Catalina can handle her issues along with his, and that the team approach works better in a relationship. Alessandro also came to terms with his obsession for revenge against Arkan, and learned some unfortunate truths about his own family.

I thought the imperial connection was interesting… and I ended up liking Konstantine after was all said and done. I viewed him as somewhat of a tragic anti-hero and hope that we see more of him, or maybe a spinoff involving his character in the future. I even enjoyed the appearance of Victoria Tremaine, our grandmother from hell. We certainly learned some truths about her that changed my view of her role in the Baylor girls’ lives. So I was happy with all the surprises (I think).

Next we should expect to see another story arc for Hidden Legacy involving Arabella Baylor, our Beast of Cologne. And it seems she will have met her match in a certain Russian prince/nephew. I’m sure there are interesting times ahead for these two larger-than-life characters.

The short of it: There are no negative reviews of this book. Honestly, of probably any book by Ilona Andrews. If you are even slightly interested in urban fantasy, general fantasy, strong heroines, lots of action, and some romance, you have a wide buffet of IA titles and series to choose from. Dive right in.

This was the bonkers finale I expected from this series. First things first, this book doesn't pick up from where Emerald Blaze left off. I really hope I'm not the last reader on earth to know that the cliffhanger in the last book was resolved in a short story published in IA's blog 🫣 if you haven't read that this will make zero sense at the beginning. I spend almost half the book wondering wtf was happening since nothing of the cliffhanger was mentioned. It was highly anticlimactic tbh.

Anyway, Catalina is back bitches! And she's more powerful than ever. One of the things that kept me reading this series was her character arc. She went from quiet and unsure of her ability to a badass who burns down the world for her family and her love. Alessandro was less of a presence in this book which was tragic. But it was so good to see their relationship evolve although the romance lacked tension since they are together now. The side stories and numerous plot points were tied up nicely while more questions popped up. Like what's up with Arabella? I need this book please and thank you!

This is not a standalone. The series must be read in order. This is also very plot driven amd the romance is secondary to all the hijinks. But the world building and the character development is so amazing that it makes up for the lack of heat and feels.

⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥/5

Thanks to the publisher for the review ARC all opinions are my own

My wife has enjoyed Ilona Andrews’s books for years, so when I saw a new book from them on NetGalley, I requested a copy from the publisher. Thanks for the eARC! Let’s see what my wife has to say:


The end of Catalina‘s story was less satisfying than I hoped. There was something a bit awkward about the way this book was written, almost as if the authors were simply tired of this portion of the series. Nevada’s story ended much stronger, and this is actually quite a bit weaker than the previous book in Catalina’s series. However, it was still enjoyable, it left me looking forward to when they kick off the next series.