What can I say about Hugh and this book ? Ok fans already know that previously Hugh failed to secure the victory over Rolands daughter Kate that he demanded. Now Hugh is no longer the golden boy and is sinking into oblivion as he is left bereft without the perceived love of Roland that he basked in. Being cast aside has left Hugh empty and yet somehow the Dogs who previously followed him have to instill fire back into him as they are all slowly but surely being eradicated.
Elara needs a buffer between her people and those who seek to take the land they have claimed. So an alliance with an army looking for a secure base would surely be the answer . In accordance with old traditions a marriage could help cement good relations but be prepared for thunder and lightning because neither Elara or Hugh are exactly cosy slippers by the fire types! Elara knows what is at stake but does Hugh really know exactly who or what he has married ?
The big question here is how do the authors redeem someone who has brought so much pain to others ? My answer is love . Hugh loved Roland with all that he had and yet that still was never going to be enough. If he is capable of that depth of devotion then yes redemption is possible. Hugh might feel there’s no hope for himself but he pulls himself up by his bootstraps and seeks salvation for those loyal Dogs who have always followed him. That right there is what the authors focus on and even as the last page unfolded there’s still no doubt in this readers mind that Hugh feels strongly that he should protect those who are his.
I won’t ruin the plot but yes there are obviously vampires and their somewhat unpleasant pilots in this story. Plus a new foe to vanquish but you just know that Hugh will have something up his sleeve . The action is frequent with character development that brings those supporting Elara and Hugh to life. Perhaps best of all though is Elara whose icy demeanour constantly challenges Hugh but my lips are sealed. Whilst admittedly this isn’t exactly an emotionally driven romance it is one that pulsates with heat . Honestly I loved it and hated that life intruded on my reading time. With this book the authors have definitely hit the ground running and I can’t wait to read what they have in store for us next. Hugh is back with a bang and whilst not totally exonerated his character and previous actions make a lot more sense. So if this book brought Hugh to life I’m guessing the next will reveal more secrets about Elara . This trilogy is fast, furious and jaw dropping, don’t miss it !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

I wasn't sure what to expect from Iron and Magic. Ilona Andrews takes the bad guy from the Kate Daniels series gives him his own book AND makes him the hero. It completely works, not sure how but it does. It also fits seamlessly into the K.D. world. It would be interesting to start the series here...but I wouldn't due to major major spoilers for the K.D. series.