The slow editorial trudge continues.
Saturday:
Sunday:
Mod R is my witness, I keep cutting and cutting and somehow there are more words.
Thank you for all of the encouragement. You guys are too nice!
I received an interesting question the other day: if you could choose a comfort read among your books, what would you choose?
It’s probably Silver Shark for me. It grew out of my experiences more than any other. Don’t get me wrong, when I think about my childhood, it’s sun-filled and bright. The garden, the flowers, the River Street with the huge river flowing slowly past, the parks, the friends…
However, the older I grew, the more aware I became and the bleaker my life looked. It’s normal for teenagers to be nihilistic, but everything was truly falling apart by the time I was 14, and it only got worse from there. My adolescence is desaturated in my memories.
I had a chance to Google-drive past the house where I grew up, and it was in ruins. It really hammered home the point: that life is over. The place of my childhood exists only in my memories. It’s bittersweet, but the place where I live now is wonderful. It’s vivid, and bright, and I’m grateful for it. Yes, US has its problems, and I will complain about them as much as any American, but it’s a huge upgrade compared to the life I left behind.
Which brings me to another question:
Could we get a post sometime where folks share their favorite comfort read portions of House Andrews books?
This sounds like fun. Of everything we’ve written, what scenes or books do you go to when you need a little bit of comfort? One lucky commenter will get a signed book from our shelves.
Please don’t recommend other authors, as we will have a separate thread for that.
like the whole of Hugh’s book… I literally reread it 3 or 4 times a year as well as listening on audio book. it speaks to me of redemption and as a survivour of rape and torture the story of self destruction to self realisation of being better gives me hope.
I also love Mauds book…
but tbh every book is a comfort read, escapism from my ptsd and Fibromalygia. your characters give me a place to hide when the world is too much and I can say hard on heart your books havd saved my life on more than one occasion.
I just need a horse sort of unicorn x
I’m glad that you’re able to find escape and shelter 🤗
I have to admit, the times y’all give Caldenia free rein with her words are my favorite. She’s harsh but fair. And she’s educational with a global view. Sweep of the Heart especially.
I read the whole kinsmen series starting with silver shark and ending with fated blades. It goes from despair / bleakness to normal routine.
Thank you for sharing your struggles and parts of your life. I appreciate your openness with us!
One of my favorite HA comfort reads is
One the Edge – it reminds me of my own childhood. My mom made due with what we had, but we struggled to have new clothes for school. As a child, I dreamed of having magic so that I could escape. I love Rose’s strength and power and that she and Declan have a HEA 🙂
I really hate breaking spines on my books, and I try really hard to read by opening them the minimal amount so that there’s not much creasing along the spine. My copy of Bayou Moon is incredibly creased. I have reread that book so many times. There’s something incredibly comforting about it. Obviously it’s a pretty violent book, but I think I just really enjoy both Cerise and William as characters so much. Their story and their romance has a lot of bittersweet moments but their ending is just fantastic. I love them and the journey that brings them together a lot.
Sweep in Peace is also a big one for me. I think the introduction of Orro and all the setup for the peace summit was just so much fun. It was exciting yet also emotionally compelling. The consistent juxtaposition of humor and seriousness within the House Andrews books is such a powerful draw to me. It’s a testament to the quality of writing to be able to interweave comedy and tragedy so effectively.
I love them all, and I truly enjoy the atmosphere you create in your books.
But Sweep of the blade has something that warms my heart: Helen.
I adore her and she grows on me with every page. I think she is the only child in literature that looks real and funny and sweet and smart.
Thank you for Helen 🌺
I love all of your books of course, but the Kinsmen books I gravitate towards when I want a quick comfort read. I also regularly reread the Innkeeper series.
For me my go to comfort reads are the Inn Keeper series, the humor of all the different species interacting never fails to bring a smile to my face and heart. If I had to pick a favorite scene it would be when Arland drinks coffee.
Probably Maud’s book … she is at a more mature crossroads of her life and struggling to balance what put she wants with what she thinks she SHOULD want. And so many conflicts (fight w Ilema, the poisoning, the hunt, the wedding). So many great characters about which I would like to learn more. Sweet scenes (movie night!)
I don’t skip to particular scenes, but I do tend to read in a hurry to my favorite bits.
A favorite scene only that I reread … site-visit to the new Baylor family home.
Oohh this is so hard … as I read other comments, I am thinking “Oh yes, that one is great … oh, and that one too, … and that was so satisfying … and,and,and”. Basically all the series have their high points and fun parts. So many favorites …
+1111
Maud’s book is my comfort read. Maud is a strong heroine who is resilient, intelligent, a brilliant swordsman, and intensely protective of those she loves. Maud’s journey for love, acceptance, and a place in a different culture and the triumph over the enemies of Maud’s new family leaves me feeling satisfied and content.
I always find myself reading Hugh’s book when I need comfort. I think what is comforting is the notion that people can change, and change can be good. I truly love consistency, but Hugh’s book allowed me to experience change and be okay with it!
(To be fair though, any House Andrews book is a comfort to me!!😊)
I totally agree about your comment about the USA. I grew up in what was formerly known as a third world country. There was no economic motility and my parents struggled very much. When we came to the US they were able to make a better life for themselves. I complain about America as well but I will never forget were I came from and I will always be grateful for where I live now.
There are so many comfort reads. I love all of Innkeeper but especially Sweep of the Heart. I love all of Kinsmen and The Edge. I adore Blood Heir. But my absolute favorite scene is in Iron and Magic where Hugh woke up after fighting Raphael. He finds Elara making crepes he thinks it’s a dream.
He rested his forehead against the back of her head. “Elara…”
“Please,” she whispered. “Please don’t say anything you’ll regret in the morning.”
His voice was a low snarl. “Sometimes when I lay awake in the middle of the night, I think of you.”
“Don’t…”
“Sometimes there is nothing left and all that’s anchoring me here is knowing you’ll pick a fight with me in the morning.”
“Hugh…”
“What do you want more than anything? Tell me what it is, and I’ll rip the world apart to bring it to you.”
She turned in his arms slowly and raised her hands. Her fingers touched his hair, brushing it back from his face. He savored it.
She stood on her toes and brushed his lips with hers. “Ask me again in the morning.”
For Hubby: Hidden Legacy. Grandma the tank mechanic reminds him of his own grandma-who worked in a tank factory during WW2. He fell in love with Catalina, because he too turns to cooking to sooth his stress. If he had to name his favorite scene, it would have to be the ferret heist. “I’m stuck in a Disney movie.” cracks him up every time.
Me: Innkeeper all the way. I have loved that one from the first post made however long ago. When the days are cold and bleak, I curl up and read about First Scholar and his love of philosophy.
Silver Shark. I’ve struggled with depression a lot in my life, and many of my past memories are gray-tinged and faded. Like washed in a fog. So the beginning of Silver Shark really calls to me, I can really see myself in that gray, bland world.
And then when she goes to Rada, to the Dahlia district… that’s really what coming out of a depressive fog is like. Suddenly the world is a riot of colors, sights, sounds… everything is intense and overwhelming but so so beautiful at the same time.
Plus Claire is just a totally BAMF.
Anything House Andrews is a comfort read for me. Their books are like warm comfortable stretchy pants and an oversized t-shirt after a giant meal. Exactly what I need.
However, when my mom passed last year and I needed extra comfort I went to the Hidden Legacy series first, then Innkeeper, followed by all things KD world.
It’s Magic Strikes for me. I adore the Kate series but it was Magic Strikes that really got me hooked. It’s something about the tournament, Derek’s situation, Jim’s leadership, and Curran coming to get Kate that made me fall in love with these characters. It’s my go to read whenever I need something I know I’ll love.
Bayou moon. The first line
William stood on his porch drinking Modelos especial.
Maybe it’s because he’s a trauma survivor doing self care. I imagine a world where baby shape shifters get left on his doorstep. William & Cerise create a healthy version of Hawks.
Hidden Legacy will always be my comfort read because of how the family dynamic reflects my own family. And it reminds of the happy chaos that comes with living with 8 people in a three bedroom home and how we made it work, adding nooks and crannies to fit everyone. I love that they always have each other’s back and it reminds me that I too have people who are there to back me up.
If I were to choose a specific scene from the books, it’s the ferret heist scene. I re-read the second book of the Hidden Legacy specifically for that. I have a sticky note that marks the beginning of the scene so that way I can just open it up to read only that scene if that is what I need.
It brings back the memories of my childhood stinky noodles doing their war dance and getting into shenanigans. They were the first pets that I purchased myself along with all of the supplies. They were mine, not the families. My parents made me write an report on the responsibilities of caring for a living creature and why they should let me have them. I even had to cite my sources. This scene also is a reminder that though shit may be going down, you can still have fun with it, as those guys got me through my parents divorce as tip-tapped their way through their next secret mission: getting ALL the crinkles under the dresser.
When I comfort reread, I usually pull out the entire series. If I pull out Burn For Me I’m not going to stop until the end of Ruby Fever. I will sometimes start with Magic Strikes instead of Magic Bites with Kate Daniels, though I think Magic Bleeds is my actual fave because that’s when Kate and Curran finally get together. Bayou Moon is my fave of the Edge series, and Silver Shark of the Kinsmen ones, but they’re all matters of degree.
Fave scene: Again, this is one of many, but I love when Kate shows up at the People’s casino because she wants to talk to Roland and Ghastek is trying to Pictionary the restaurant Applebee’s. So funny!
Actually, Silver Shark is my favorite too. I sometimes wish it was longer… but then I realize again that it’s perfect as is. I love rereading it, especially when I’m looking for something comforting that I can read in one sitting.
I love going back to On the Edge. Rose is such a fun character to follow, especially in her role as a sister. Scene wise I also like going back to Magic Triumphs and getting to watch Kate in mom mode with Conlan.
Your books were a great comfort to me when my stepson was killed. I reread all of your series from Edge, to Kate, to Innkeeper, to Legacy, to free fiction, to the blog and back on repeat. I just kept cycling through the loop. I want to thank you both for the respite your worlds provided.
Its a toss up for me between Sweep of the Blade and Silver Shark. I am a voracious reader and do not normally read a book more than once, but all of yours I can come back to time and time again to delight in the action and envision the characters like old friends!
The Innkeeper series. I love everything but that one is the one I always go back to when I need a reset.
I have two comfort reads. . Well the reads that can make me smile no matter what. . . . The shorts where you write about “what if Kate and Curran and the gang had cell phones”. . . The fire engine that Conlan gets made it into the series, the second is the “Space Chickens”. . . I believe the most recent ones were is Innkeeper 5.
The first two hidden legacy books. The evolution of Rogan is quite the comfort that it is possible if you try and treat people if they are human beings rather than an item you want something from.
The innkeeper series. Dina is the character I identify with most in the world, however, I do alternate listening to Inkeeper, with the Hidden Legacy. I am constantly recommending these series to everyone 😂
The entire Innkeeper Chronicles series is a comfort read for me. Dina is so smart and collected and knows how to respond in a crisis. Her world is fascinating. The little bits of “normal” you see are soothing, but knowing that even when things go crazy she’ll figure it out is comforting. I reread the series at least once a year.
I always return to “Of swine and roses” when I feel a bit down and need a quick comfort-read<3
Probably Sweep of the Blade is my favorite. I love Maud’s story.
Then Magic Claims. It’s fun to hear from Kate and family again.
I would have to say, Blood Heir, is my most visited book. Especially the scene with Julie in the bathtub and Derek asking uncomfortable questions. Maybe because this story thread is still unfinished and I like to torment myself with the anticipation for the next book. I’ve rooted for this couple for so long now…
Magic Bleeds is my go to comfort read. I reread things that make me smile and the scenes between Curran and Kate where they finally get together brings enormous comfort. It tells me there is hope for even the most stubborn of people. Plus I laugh my butt off every time I read it.
I should also say that during the worst year of my life I read the dang thing four times.
I have to agree with Silver Shark as a comfort read. after several extremely difficult and unhappy years I held onto a dream of having my own yard and gardening again; of being free to bake without someone trying to make me feel small. when that finally happened, I took (and continue to takw) deep satisfaction in that.
Else? Bayou Moon, because I come from a big, messy, loving family.
I hear you on the not being able to go home. My entire area where I grew up was razed to the ground by fire. Because of single parenting kids with disabilities, I’ve dropped economically and in social relatability from others. My life is smaller now, but I have gratitude, and therefore happiness. Thank you for your writing, which adds to my happiness!
The Innkeeper series is my go-to, although all of your books are amazing for comfort. But it’s just something about the found family dynamics, and the magical house, and… all of it. It just has it’s own magical feeling, ya know? 😄❤️
What you said!!!
Hidden Legacy on audiobook is my comfort series.
I don’t have specific sections, I just love the stories and it’s my go to when I need to calm myself, focus and listen to something I know will make me feel happy.
I also LOVE all Innkeeper books so sometimes it’s that series instead 🙂
My comfort read is the entire innkeeper series. Really, every once in a while the real world is mean and I’ll restart with Dina giving Sean the “what are you going to do about it” regarding the neighbor dog death and I miss the series all over again. Before I know it, I’m going through the books one by one. Thank you for the comfort and a galaxy of fun.
Sweep of the Blade.
Ilona Andrews are one of my comfort authors. It’s been a miserable year and part of what has gotten me through is listening to both series of the IA Graphic Audio books and then jumping to the Renee Raudman narrations when I ran out for Kate. I’m now thoroughly enjoying Small Magics and the timing is great as I finished all the IA series a few weeks ago. A huge thank you to IA for all your books!!! (I love all the original narrations but have been having extra fun re-experiencing them through GA).
1.The Hidden Legacy the whole serie.
2. The Innkeeper again the whole serie.
White Hot
– First there’s the acknowledgement of emotions. You keep telling yourself “he’s bad for me” but then you’re able to get your rear in gear and realize it’s actually a good fit.
-Like others have stated above, the ferret heist
– Post-interrogation scene. It just really rings true to me. Sometimes we have to do things that others perceive as horrible or terrifying. I loved, loved LOVED how Rogan steps in between Nevada and the peanut gallery and tell her she’s amazing. It brings tears to my eyes.
And how can I forget Pancakes admitting he made arrogant mistakes! absolutely delicious…
It has to be Clean Sweep !
The original Audio version
Magic Triumphs is my comfort read. since my husband passed away, grand kid and daughter are off living their life, this book makes me happy. For moments at a time i am back in the heart of family chaos.
I don’t want know how many times I’ve fallen asleep listening to Ruby Fever….
TBH, I cycle through all the books for comfort. If I had to pick one, it would be On The Edge.
Not only is the story compelling and characters amazing (Rose+Declan forever <3, and George+Jack were so great they continued to innkeeper!), but the idea that a magic world exists beyond some invisible barrier has definitely been a daydream of mine.
Silent Blade is the most comforting of your books to me!
Kate Daniels from Magic Slays to Wilmington years are my go to escape reads. My favorite parts are when Kate tells stories or comes up with some cultural reference so obscure and I’m awestruck.
The Innkeeper series is my comfort read. One Fell Sweep and Sweep of the Blade are sublime. Maude and Arland just knock me out and Dina and Gertrude Hunt fill me with such joy and give me so much comfort, especially during Covid. Sean’s steadfast love for Dina is beautiful and lifts my spirits.
I think I the get most comfort from your fictional children. Helen and Conlon tickle me with their antics and the others have thrived and become exceptional adults.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your magical characters and their stories. 🙏
Also and I will be totally candid here… on days when my brain is overwhelmed, and I don’t want to have to focus on a book or a scene I love to read this BLOG! Its true.
It helps me feel lighter and encouraged with what everyone has to say.
Thanks everyone!
I love my pillow!!!
and to an earlier comment: I did buy my brother a fart gun when he was down. it worked a charm!!
When Catalina becomes the Deputy Warden. I admire her courage so much.
Sweep of the Blade. #Helen
I’ve decided it’s a good thing that Kindle doesn’t count. When I reread HA books yearly (or more), I mark them as unread so I can feel the success of it changing to read.
In order:
Hidden Legacy
Kate (includes shorts, Hugh, and Julie)
Innkeeper
Kinsmen
My comfort read is Clean Sweep. I came across it online and would wait impatiently for each installment. It led me on Kate Daniel’s, which was awesome but Dina’s inn in that first book will always be my comfort place.
The ‘get your guns, boys, we are going to Walmart’ is just timeless for me. It lifts me up no matter where I am emotionally. (horrible paraphrase all my own fault)
Innkeeper.
I once described the Innkeeper series as “a cup of soup for your soul”. I bought the first book of it for my sister while she was sick. She has now read everything IA hehehe.
Sweep of the Blade is my COMFORT read, we all have “ripper cushions” from daily life, and when I need a break I reread Maude’s stories. Thank you ANDREWS family for the entertainment, I keep your books in my preorder list, synopsis not needed. Happy Holidays Everyone.
Magic Strikes and Magic Triumphs seem to be the two I go to most. Magic Strikes has some fantastic humor moments and I am at the point in my life where I really relate to the parenthood aspect of Magic Triumphs.
My comfort passage is in the Innkeeper series where she goes to convince Orro to come cook for the Inn.
Reread favorite is fated blades but the voice of Steve west as hugh? Now you have me hot and bothered at work.
For me it’s very close between Innkeeper Chronicles and Hidden Legacy. I love both of the series so much, but the Innkeeper Chronicles have more of a cozy vibe going on. And Clean Sweep was the first book I’ve ever read by Ilona and Gordon, so it get’s the nostalgia bonus
Almost the entire Innkeeper Chronicles is a comfort read for me, but especially One Fell Sweep when you have everyone working together and there’s the scene where Dina runs to hug Sean after the first skirmish with the Draziri, that hug, the words, the feeling. Just yes!!!
And then in Wildfire where there’s just the comfortable companionship and the chocolate mousse after the not great dinner. Just the easy rapport between two people who care about each other.
Hidden Legacy is my comfort. From the moment Burn for Me came out, it was a favourite. I probably read it 100 times before book 2 and then a month later book 3 came out. Every book has been read dozens of times. And now I love Catalina as much as Nevada.
I love the humour, the action, the family interaction, the magic, the world building, the sex.
Currently my HA comfort read is Sweep of the Blade. “Ripper Cushions” makes me smile every time.
Mine would have to be Sweep of the Blade. Maude’s care and worry as Mother really resonated with me. I read that one yearly.
For me I’d say the Innkeeper series is my favorite to re-read. Too many of the others have enough conflict between the main characters to not be comfortable for me. Innkeeper has more of a consistent “us vs the world” feel.
I’ve reread Silent Blade more than any other book, ever. I could almost recite it at this point. Probably my favorite part (other than the description of passion cones) is the very last bit, when he’s moping around and she appears in his garden, and confesses she’s been living across the valley, also moping around. Two peas in a pod, lol.
Any of the Innkeeper books are probably the highest on my comfort list. However, almost any book written by you is on my comfort list. When my momma was ill and passed away 8 years ago I read your books over and over to help me get through that time. I could reread and not think and just let my brain idle during those long emotional days and nights of caring for her. We shared a love of your books so at the same time they kept me connected with her after she was gone. Whenever a new House Andrews comes out I think about how excited she’d be.
silent blade and then silver shark are almost equally my most favorite comfort read. maybe because as someone who swore to never re read books (why when there are some many more to read) I re read/audiobook all of IA books at least 1x a year and since Kate Daniel’s and HL have more than 3 I can’t just re read 1 I have to do the whole series but with silent blade and silver shark I get to immense myself in a whole word and live that storyline in 1 book.
When I need a quick pick me up, I will read one of your short stories like Of Swine and Roses or Grace of Small Magic. If I have more time, then Silver Shark. I have more than gotten my money’s worth from these.
More, please.
My House Andrews comfort read is the Hidden Legacy series, specifically Emerald Blaze, but generally the whole series. I just finished a re-read (re-listen) to the series to get me through Thanksgiving week with my family.
My favorite comfort read is the Ladies’ Communal, Ch 7, Sweep of the Blade. For the first time, Maud stands separately from other characters. She is not a failed vampires widow, not Dina’s sister or Arland’s not betrothed She is Maud, getting the hell beaten out of her but she doesn’t give up. She has figured out there is no winning but she keeps hanging on. When the scene ends after Helen brings Ilemina to her senses, Maud has prevailed. This is my favorite comfort read because when I’m having a particularly difficult time and really just want to quit, this scene tells me to just keep going and at some point it will work itself out.
for me it’s blood heir. it’s comforting to go back to visit Julie in her house near unicorn lane with the water feature inside and to see Derek again.
Absolutely Magic Strikes. Jim breaking the clipboard, Raphael giving Kate the fan, everyone laughing about Kate’s sausage. The entire book is perfection.
I always return to Burn for Me. There is something so captivating and real about Nevada that I connect to every time. She is the perfect blend of idealistic dreams and stubborn realism. Being so grounded in love and family allows her to find the best path even when she is floundering because she doesnt know herself. This sturdy foundation of character makes it possible for purity to be found in even her most vicious of strengths.
I would have to say Silver Shark or Iron and Magic. something about the darkness to light trope always makes me feel better. yes, Hugh is a flawed person, but the way he protects those he considers his is amazing.
For me, it is Fated Blades and/or Sweep of the Blade. I los count of hoy ma y times Inhave read them
I was going to say One Fell Sweep because that’s the one I turn to when I can’t get my self to read anything in weeks. But I’m sick at the moment, and I was so happy when Small Magics audiobook came out because I got to listen Of Swine And Roses. And I realised that I also read it last time I was sick only a month ago. And couple other times too in the last few years. So for some reason that I can’t really explane (It’s not even in my top 3 favourite house Andrews stories), that little story must be my comfort read.
I have read Burn for Me at least 6 times. Every time I have a long commute, I listen to it on audio. It is so immersive, I forgot about how bad the traffic is.
My comfort read is the Magic Burns. It is the first House Andrew book that I read and it is one of my favourite in the series. I always pick it up when I need an escape and it never fails.
The timing of this question is apt, as I just comfort read some House Andrews yesterday!
Magic Bleeds, specifically the Kate/Curran sections. I find it comforting because this is the book they “officially mate” or whatever Kate wants to call it. And who doesn’t love a happy ending
Three classics:
– the Curran- Kate pranks leading to her being glued to her chair
– of course, their first meeting, “here Kitty, Kitty”
– Helen’s day care skirmish leading to “ripper cushions.”
When I need comfort, Innkeeper is there for me. <3
Reading through the comments gave me so many feels. All these books are magic and I love seeing how they have comforted so many people.
I’m relatively new to the BDH, but have already read the Innkeeper series and Hidden Legacy a couple of times each (halfway through Catalina’s series again right now)–I’m on my first read through for Kate, but I know I’ll be revisiting her books many times.
I think for pure comfort I return to Gertrude Hunt–it’s such a hospitable story, and there is this beautiful balance between knowing the world is big and scary but also here is a good meal and peaceful space. I also adore Sean and Dinah.
Hidden Legacy is comforting, too–all the humor tucked in and the family dynamics…I just love it.
But I have to say…the scene that pops into my head unbidden and makes me laugh at awkward moments is when Kate sent Curren a saucer of milk at that fancy restaurant. Iconic.
While I love Hidden Legacy and Catalina in particular, I get way to emotionally invested in her for it to be a comfort read haha. For comfort I’d probably read (or listen to) any Dina and Sean related interaction. I just love their chemistry and banter.
For me, it’s both Magic Burns and Magic Strikes. I own and re-read every one of House Andrews’ books but those two are just so perfect, I never tire of them.
I love every single one of your books – some more than others – but they are all great. Personally I loved Hidden Legacy series the most. The family dynamics are wonderful and each plot was extremely well thought out. Kate Daniels series is in a close tie with Hidden Legacy.
I use both Silver Shark and Fated Blade as quick comfort reads (or listens)
My favorite scenes from other books are the elevator scene at the start of White Hot and meeting Grendel in Kate Daniels.
I also love to read the extra POV scenes and then go reread the book scene.
Your books are my comfort read. I re-read them on a regular basis. And it depends on the mood which ones I go for, sometimes it’s Kinsmen universe, sometimes Kates books. (I’ll blame mom they cycle for my mood). I just finished innkeepers…again.
But I must admit, my absolute favourites are the Hidden legacy series. But in terms of specific scenes= on the Edge, where George gets to learn why living forever is not sustainable in healthy society. It’s one that I use with my kids..as learning experience.
My IA comfort reads are:
Magic Bleeds – when Curran protects Kate from the water mage / learns who Kate really is.
Gunmetal Magic – Rafael and Andrea’s reconciliation is *chef’s kiss*
Magic Triumphs – any scene with Hugh
I don’t know about comfort, but I still giggle at the meeting between Kate and Currin and reread it fairly often.
At the height of the pandemic I read BURN FOR ME. Then I just kept reading the Hidden Legacy series. I was bummed, depressed and just plain upset and those books took my mind off it all. Thanks House Andrews!
Comfort scene, Roman being Roman. Either you shall not pass or when Kate and Curren ask him to officiate their wedding.
Scenes that convey real, unconditional love give me comfort:
Sweep of the Blade – the scene were Arland told his mother he’d choose Maud over her, their clan and all the power of being Warlord. I’m a sucker for a man willing to sacrifice immense power for the woman he loves. Like Maud, I was overcome because I knew he truly meant it. Arland is the knight in shining armor Maud so needed and deserved. Arland made Maud feel worthy again. He was so ridiculously proud of her, he empowered her.
KA – When Curran shocked Kate by not just walking away from being Beast Lord, but fully embraced raising a family with her. Curran made her childhood’s dearest wish come true… he gave her first real home, and family she always wanted … as you wish indeed.
Hidden Legacy – the scenes where Nevada managed the impossible feat of stopping Rogan’s raging hurricane. Her light and love broke through his darkness. He was such a damaged man and her love really healed him.
KA – When Kate goes off her leash and mows down every one that threatened baby Conlan. It’s a bloodthirsty scene, but, it’s cathartic, too. Kate was always so scared of her power but she embraced it fully to protect her child… in a way she was never protected.
While I always go back to Hidden Legacy books, I think one of my most favorite comfort reads is Silent Blade. The cozy kitchen feels and the visuals of lush dahlias always make me smile.
When I need to be happy I go straight to Kate book #3 or #4!
Magic Strikes and Magic Bleeds in my mind are fluffy, maybe because Kate finally realizes her feelings and acts upon them. And I just love the courtship pranks 😂
Comfort scene, One Fell Sweep, the breakfast scene. Starting with Helen naming Olasard and ending with Dina taking Helen’s breakfast plate to where she is hiding under a table.
With the coda of finding Helen helping Orro in the kitchen after they all go to apprehend Wing.
Comfort book is always Gunmetal magic. I don’t know why but I have reread Gunmetal magic more than any other Andrews book.
It is the perfect break book when rereading all of the Daniels books but also stands very well on it’s own.
I love how vulnerable she is at the start, how much she grows to accept all of herself throughout the book. I just love it and find the scene where Kate helps Andrea cover Raphael’s house in shag pile carpet followed by Andrea hiding in the attic and Raphael tracking her down, one of the funniest yet still most romantic scenes of any book ever 😀
My comfort read is definitely Kate’s series, in its entirety :3c
It’s a tie between Hidden Legacy and Kate Daniels for me. My two favorite series of all time. I listened to both on audiobook while I was post partum with my two babies and these books brought me a lot of comfort while I was struggling through PPD.
I referred my youngest Grandson (18 in Jan.) to your books; and I’m re-reading them along with him. (Even though I’ve re-read some of them 8 times.) This is fun because then we can talk about all the details. He has finished the Edge books, 10 of the Kate books, all the Innkeeper ones. One of my questions when he comes over is “What are you reading?” He always has a stack of other author books on his bedside table; and I usually buy him the next 3 or so books in the series he’s reading. He has a learning disorder (Dysgraphia); and the fact that he is a reader just makes me so happy.
So that was a long trip to answer the question of my Comfort Read. I would have to say it’s Innkeeper 4, Maud’s book. I just really like all the kicking ass in that book. But it also has family and loyalty and love.
I love the descriptions of Dina building the rooms for her guests.
There is something so comforting about the thought of someone putting that much effort into not only accommodating her guest but going above and beyond to make it feel like home.
I love reading about the level of thought and consideration she puts into it and how much it is appreciated by her guests.
Every time I pass one of the concrete road dividers, I laugh thinking of the scene where Connor was breaking them to show Nevada that he was scary w/o a gun. I think it is the part where Nevada decided to get a picture for her grandmother that made it memorable for me.
I will stick to just three favorites (there are so MANY to choose from)
1. Swine and Roses – all time favorite
2. Inn Keeper where Dina has the ground swallow the ninjas and then Sean shows
up in wolf form.
3. No Heroes, Conlan’s short story. On dark days everyone needs a boy and his dog don’t you think?