Review: On the Edge by Ilona Andrews

Title: On The Edge Author: Ilona Andrews Format: MM Available Formats: MM, Kindle, Sony eBook Page Count: 309 Genre: (Not Quite Urban or Traditional Fantasy) Rural Fantasy Publisher: Ace Pub. Date: September 29, 2009 ISBN-13: 9780441017805 Series: #1 in the Edge series

There exists a place between the mundane world (called the Broken) and the magical (called the Weird). This place takes on elements of the two other worlds to become a place where lesser magic can exist. This place is called the Edge. Rose Drayton lives on the Edge. Her life is alternately mundane and magical. She must work as a cleaning lady to make ends meet for her family, but whens he's in the Edge, she also has the enviable ability to 'flash' a dangerous burst of magic. It was Rose's flash that got her into so much trouble in the first place. Trouble comes in many forms, though. And just when things seem to have settled for her family (for better or worse) Declan enters her life. The arrogant aristocrat seems to bring as much trouble as Rose herself--and the sort of trouble that follows him into the Edge threatens everything Rose loves.

The genre for On The Edge is pretty ambiguous. Because it doesn't take place in the world as we know it, the story doesn't quite fit into the category of 'urban' fantasy. However, because the story seems so similar to our world, or parts of it, the distinction of 'traditional' fantasy doesn't apply either. Instead, Andrews has affectionately dubbed the story as a 'rural' fantasy. I suppose that or 'dark fantasy' or 'fantasy' will do. The genre isn't important, anyway, because I think that people who enjoy all sorts of fantasy can enjoy Andrews' story. Perhaps, particularly the fans of urban fantasy will find something refreshing in this new world.

The premise and characters of On The Edge are great. Though I winced when 'redneck grandpa Cletus' entered the stage, I was able to forgive the stereotypical name and actions, because I believe Andrews was pointing them out in fun. Otherwise, the 'rural' aspect of On The Edge is done in a way that's understandable, interesting, and human. The characters especially make On The Edge fun. I felt for Rose and her little brothers. I usually don't really care for kids in fiction of any sort, but Georgie and Jack really had my heart. Little Georgie the necromancer who hates death and feral Jack who wants to protect his brother... And--of course--like any Andrews novel, the book is too easy to read in one sitting. Andrews' control over action and the story is admirable and easy to read and follow.

Finally, I have to wonder how Andrews is going to continue this series. Because On The Edge has been verified as a series. I'm not entirely sure if Rose and Declan's story will continue, as it has wrapped up so nicely. Alternately, I can see where there would be room to give the pair more challenges. Still, I can't help but think I'd like to see what other families and women are struggling on the Edge...

Quick and Dirty: Charmed.
Definitely a highly recommended read for this year, especially since Andrews steps away from adding another urban fantasy to the mix and instead decides to try something completely unique.