Ami's Hoard

Alex entered a new 'phase' in his life. To postpone the Council off his back, Alex joined the Council's 'Police' Force, a.k.a. The Keeper as an auxiliary. He went to Order of the Star, with Caldera as his supervisor. His first case brought him to a group that provides prostitution and sex slaves -- and the aftermath changed the dynamic of the whole Council.

I felt that this book toned down the pace a little bit. For several books, Alex had been facing trouble, even if he wanted or not. Often it was a matter of life and death, in which Alex had to be smart and quick to survive, with no one to trust but his apprentice, Luna, as well as Anne and Vari. It felt good to know that Alex was not actively fighting with people who want to kill him this time. Yes, he still found trouble with his first case but this time he also had support from Caldera and some Keeper members -- despite that they might not trust him fully.

The significant change in the end -- with a Dark Mage became a member of the Council for the first time, ever -- made me mentally prepared myself for future books, namely Richard's masterplan. It is concerning to know that Light Mages are not better than Dark Mages and I wonder where will Jacka take this book forward. Though it doesn't really matter because I will be there for that...