Ancient Magic

Ancient Magic

by Linsey Hall

5 out of 5

Synopsis
I’m good at two things: finding treasure and killing demons. Lying low is a close third—but not because I want to be good at hiding. I have to be. I’m a FireSoul, one of the unlucky few to inherit a piece of the dragon’s soul. Being born with the dragon’s covetousness should be a sweet gig - I have the power to find and steal any type of treasure, including the powers of other supernaturals.

But it doesn’t come without a price - stealing powers requires that I kill, and others would destroy me if they discover what I am. In a world full of magic, hiding my species is the only way to survive. Finding magical artifacts is the only way to pay the bills. It’s a dangerous job when you can barely use your magic, but that’s one of the things I like about it.

When Aidan Merrick, the most powerful shifter in the city, hired me to find an ancient scroll, I didn’t want to take the job. His immense amount of power reminds me of too much of murky memories from a past I can’t remember. But I don’t have a choice. The scroll reveals what I am. And if anyone finds out, I’m dead.



Review
Cass doesn't know a lot about her past, only that she is dangerous and running from something. For the last ten years she has made a life for herself and her sisters; but a new job threatens to unravel their secret.

I received a free copy from NetGalley, and I really enjoyed it!
This is the first book I've read by Hall, but I might have to investigate some of her other series, as I liked her style.
After the first confusing scene (three magical girls with amnesia in the middle of a field), everything plays out smoothly.  It is an easy read, following Cass as she acts out her Lara Croft moments, "borrowing" ancient magical artefacts so her sisters can flog the magic - I mean, find a suitable buyer for a rare gem of their magical heritage.

Cass was a pretty cool character. She is a Firesoul - a type of magic user that is feared by the rest of the magical community, a fact that she hides, pretending to be a lesser Seeker. She constantly refuses to use her magic, preferring her own hard-earned mundane skills. She is scared of using her powers, of the attention that it would bring, and I thought she was scared of being that powerful.
She will go to any length to keep herself and her sisters safe.

Aidan quickly gains everyone's respect, partly because he is the most powerful shifter and a rare combination of magic; but mainly because he is a good guy.
It is so refreshing to read a book where the hero isn't a tortured soul; and even better, there is no insta-love!
I loved reading the banter and flirting between Aidan and Cass as they go about their adventure.

There's magic, demons and even (a-copy-of-)Thor's hammer!
The plot might not be the most complex, but the magical world that Hall creates, and the travelling and friendships all work together to make this an enjoyable little read.

I will definitely be continuing with this series!

Goodreads link
Amazon.co.uk