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Fury Bound (The Wolves of Ruin Book 2)
Sable Sorensen
4.5
The Killing Spell
by Shay Kauwe
Published Apr 14, 2026
Categories
About this book
Two hundred years after a catastrophic flood unleashed magic and forced the Hawaiian people to establish a fragile homeland within a futuristic Los Angeles, the treaty governing their survival is nearing its end. Kea Petrova, the youngest leader of a struggling Hawaiian clan, survives by selling illicit language-based spells. Her precarious existence shatters when Angelo Reyes, a prominent activist, is found dead, killed by a lethal curse that can only be cast through the Hawaiian language.
With her reputation for independent spellcraft making her the prime suspect, Kea is thrust into a high-stakes investigation to clear her name. As she navigates the treacherous political landscape of a city teeming with rival factions and volatile, competing magic systems, she must uncover the truth behind a conspiracy that threatens both her people and the future of the Homestead. Forced to forge dangerous alliances—and perhaps something more—with those she should distrust, Kea finds herself in a race against time.
To survive, she must master the volatile power of her heritage, reconcile with the legacy of her ancestors, and confront the architects of a murder that could ignite an all-out war between the clans and the city they call home.
Available Formats
Kindle: $0.00 Paperback: $17.33
What readers are saying
Sean WilliamsonIncredible Fantasy with unique focus of Language
"The Killing Spell is the kind of fantasy that pulls you in straight away and then refuses to let go. From the very first pages, it feels like stepping into a world that is both lyrical and dangerous, where language itself carries weight, history, and power in a way that feels fresh and deeply imaginative. One of the most compelling aspects is the concept of place-based language. Words aren’t just tools here; they are living forces infused with magic shaped by the ʻāina, rich culture, and identity. That idea alone would be enough to carry the story, but Kauwe goes further, weaving it seamlessly into the characters’ struggles and the broader social structure. The hierarchical system is sharply drawn and the tension between those who uphold it and those who resist it gives the story an ever-present intensity. Kea’s journey is especially satisfying. Watching her carve out her own place in a treacherous homestead and defend her family and land against an even less forgiving city is incredible. Her story is inspiring and it leaves the door open for countless conversations about how power and privilege show up in the everyday world. There’s a quiet resilience to her that builds over time, making every small victory feel earned. The themes of proving oneself and stepping up as a hero and leader show themselves in a way that feels genuine rather than forced. Life is hard, and Kea’s struggles make it her victories feel more real and earned. The romance is another highlight, developing with a natural rhythm that never overshadows the larger story but instead deepens it. It adds warmth without softening the stakes. I love a story where the focus is the strong woman’s journey and the romance is side note. Perhaps most impressive is how The Killing Spell balances feeling complete while clearly laying the groundwork for more to come. I can't wait to read the next book and learn more about this incredible world of languages! In short, this is a beautifully constructed fantasy with heart, intelligence, and a unique voice. If you’re drawn to rich worldbuilding, meaningful character journeys, and stories that explore power, both personal and societal, this one is absolutely worth your time. ["
April 18, 2026 Verified Purchase
readswithmjAbsolutely devoured
"This story was absolutely phenomenal, and I’m so glad I picked up the audio copy. Being able to hear the Hawaiian language as it should be, and not muddling it up in my head, lead to such a beautiful reading experience. While this story has a satisfying ending, I fell in love with the characters so much, it left me wanting to read more. I highly recommend picking up this book if you’re into mystery fantasy (and fantastic imagery) with a dash of romance. ["
May 5, 2026 Verified Purchase
moriahreneeMust read
"A great read and perfect for young adults as well ["
May 20, 2026 Verified Purchase
Eleanor SkinnerPublisher blurb sucks, book is excellent!
"Really good postapocalyptic urban fantasy. With bonus Hawaiian and Russian words! I read the blurb on this before it came out and just wasn't caught. It felt uninteresting somehow, even though I liked the idea of fantasy with linguistic bits. Then at some point I read a sample chapter and it was concrete and vivid and engaging and I really really wanted to know what happened next. Dear publisher: if there is ever a reissue, please change the blurb! The storyline and the romance subplot are both tied up by the end of the novel. I hate prolonging things beyond whatever their natural length is, but I really love this world, the Hawaiians and the postapocalyptic LA politics. Maybe the author will write about some other story set in the same place. ["
May 20, 2026 Verified Purchase
