Book Review: Dirty Magic by Jaye Wells

Dirty Magic
Author: Jaye Wells
Series: Prospero's War
Publication: Orbit (January 21, 2014)

Description: MAGIC IS A DRUG. CAREFUL HOW YOU USE IT.

The Magical Enforcement Agency keeps dirty magic off the streets, but there's a new blend out there that's as deadly as it is elusive. When patrol cop Kate Prospero shoots the lead snitch in this crucial case, she's brought in to explain herself. But the more she learns about the investigation, the more she realizes she must secure a spot on the MEA task force.

Especially when she discovers that their lead suspect is the man she walked away from ten years earlier - on the same day she swore she'd given up dirty magic for good. Kate Prospero's about to learn the hard way that crossing a wizard will always get you burned, and that when it comes to magic, you should never say never.

My Thoughts: Kate Prospero is a cop who has sworn off magic. She grew up in a magical coven learning to cook magic but, when her magic killed someone she loved, she swore off. She has spent the last ten years raising her younger brother who has now become 16 and also become curious about magic.

Kate wants to get a spot on the Magical Enforcement Agency task force so that she will have some financial security for herself and her brother. Also, she is interested in getting dirty magic off the streets. She wasn't happy to learn that her former boyfriend is involved in the case. There is a new drug in town called Gray Wolf which gives the user immunity to defensive magic and a craving for human flesh. It is a combination of alchemical magic and blood magic which is why her ex is a suspect. He is one of the few who could do the alchemical magic.

I enjoyed Kate as she tried to reconcile her past with her future. I liked her relationship with her brother which is definitely being tested in this story. I liked watching her try to fit in with the other MEA agents and liked seeing her interact with the old boyfriend. I liked the world building and will be looking for more books in this series.

I think urban fantasy fans will like this one.

Favorite Quote:

Magic is a tool. If I am unable to use it responsibly, I will not use magic at all. I am responsible for my own actions, and I pledge to act with compassion for myself and others, always.

I bought this Kindle Daily Deal. You can buy your copy here.