Favorite story: Because I’m always thrilled to learn more about Kate’s protege, I was delighted to read “Magic Tests” in this collection. Julie shined in this story, especially because she’s not just a miniature version of Kate. She’s been influenced by all the adults in her life, and it shows in the way she handles interpersonal relationships and conflict. I also enjoyed this look into an educational institution in the world of Post-Shift Atlanta, especially because that is a world-building element often overlooked in fantasy series that are not primarily “magical school” narratives.

Story that I wish would be expanded into a novel: How do insurance claims work when magic and nonhumans walk the land? “Retribution Clause” not only featured a protagonist completely different from Kate Daniels, but an entirely new location and type of hero as well! (Gender, race, job, the works.) This was a fun story with a twisty plot, but the most exciting thing about it was everything that was new, such as its setting of Post-Shift Philadelphia. If this story is a “test pilot” to see whether readers are up for a spin-off series, count me in.

Rating: 5 (out of 5) stars.

Cross-posted to Amazon and Goodreads

Currently reading: Just One Damned Thing After Another (The Chronicles of St. Mary’s #1) by Jodi Taylor (63%)