Saphirflammen

Oh my, this book was an absolute delight. I went in with high expectations and it did not disappoint. Putting this book down proved a difficult task. It was exciting, suspenseful, action packed and magical. If you are looking for a story that will transport you into a world where the impossible becomes possible, then Sapphire Flames is the book for you.Sapphire Flames is the fourth book in the Hidden Legacy series and part one of the Catalina Baylor Trilogy. I first met Catalina in the previous Installments and I found her to be an intriguing character. After reading Diamond Fire, I wanted to see more of her in action. So learning that this would be her story was a treat.Strong, independent, selfless, determined and brave. She epitomized all these traits, which were fitting being that she was head of the House of Baylor. She handled herself well and proved to be a worthy adversary. Catalina showed significant growth since her appearance Wildfire.Alessandro, an Italian count and a Prime who had an air of mystery around him. The man is fine, so I understood why Catalina was smitten with him. I loved how the authors highlighted both his fun and serious sides. He may have appeared conceited, but this was not the case. There are so many layers to him and I cannot wait to peel each one away.The chemistry between them sizzled. They made a great team professionally and romantically. Although there was a hint of romance, it was not an integral part of the plot. The focus was on solving a crime and putting an end to a network of assassins.I enjoyed the banter and snark between the characters. There were a few scenes, that had me laughing aloud, at some rather inconvenient times, but I was having too much fun to care.Conclusion/RecommendationI was sad to see Sapphire Flamesend, as I am eager to know what is in store for this awesome couple.  I recommend this book to fans of urban fantasy. It can work as a standalone as the authors provides sufficient background information to allow readers new to the series to understand the world and the intricacies of the Baylor family. However, I would recommend starting from the beginning as the series is downright amazing.

I want to start by saying I love Ilona Andrews novels, and their writing style. This is book 5 in the A Hidden Legacy series, this is book 2 in the Catalina Baylor books. I enjoy the banter and relationship between Catalina and Alessandro ... It isn't often that I get stuck on a plot flop, but in this book the change of head of house Baylor annoys, frustrates and just ruins the book for me ... books 1 to 3 are focused on Nevada Baylor the eldest sister who has spent every moment she from the point she took over Baylor Investigations at 17 years old, in keeping the family safe and afloat while running the firm to the keep the company the best it could be. The explanation of how Catalina took over head of house would never happen without massive emotional fallout and family disfunction. A person does not have their primary focus and reason for being ripped away and at the hands of their entire family in a coup. It makes the 3 weeks Nevada didn't speak to her a farce, the entire scenario is unrealistic and annoying. Why spend 3 books building a character to destroy them and make them redundant... there had to have been a better way to change head of house and keep the character integrity. This whole part of the book is short and yet taints everything else. Instead Catalina whines about the person she is, yet she is supposed to vicious like her Grandmother ... it doesn't play out for me at all. I'll read the next book in the series because normally Ilona Andrews writes some of my favourite books and I'm hoping this series can be salvaged but I won't reread this one again.2.5 stars