Kitty Goes to Washington (Kitty Norville, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Carrie Vaughn's "Kitty Goes to Washington," the second installment in the Kitty Norville series, plunges Kitty, a magically gifted reporter, deeper into the world of fae politics and intrigue. Following the events of the first book, Kitty is grappling with the aftermath of her exposure to the magical world and the complexities of her relationship with her shapeshifting boyfriend, Ben. Her journalistic instincts, however, are once again piqued, leading her into a captivating mystery that reaches the highest levels of power.

The main plot revolves around a series of seemingly unrelated deaths among influential Washington D.C. figures. These deaths are initially dismissed as natural causes or accidents, but Kitty's keen observation and magical sensitivity reveal a sinister pattern: each victim had recently encountered or interacted with a powerful fae entity. Her investigation, fueled by her newfound connection to the fae community and her own developing magical abilities, leads her down a rabbit hole of political maneuvering and clandestine fae activity.

Key characters besides Kitty include Ben, who offers both emotional support and crucial magical assistance; Cornflower, a powerful and enigmatic fae with a complex history and hidden agenda; and various members of the Washington D.C. elite who are unwittingly pawns in a larger game. The mysterious deaths are orchestrated by a group of fae intent on manipulating human politics for their own gain, highlighting the overarching theme of the tension between the magical and human worlds. This tension is not simply a clash of civilizations, but also a reflection of human corruption and ambition, mirrored and amplified by the fae's own manipulative tendencies.

As Kitty digs deeper, she uncovers a conspiracy reaching far beyond the initial deaths. The fae are using advanced magical technology, subtly influencing political decisions and events, and potentially even orchestrating larger-scale geopolitical consequences. This highlights the theme of power and its corruption, showing how both the fae and humans readily abuse power when given the opportunity. Kitty’s role in uncovering the conspiracy is complicated by her personal relationships. She must navigate the treacherous waters of both human and fae politics while protecting herself and her loved ones from the growing danger.

The novel skillfully blends urban fantasy elements with political thriller tropes, creating a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the cost of power. Kitty's journey in "Kitty Goes to Washington" sees her evolve from a relatively naive reporter to a more confident, albeit still cautious, figure who understands the immense responsibility that comes with her magical abilities and her position in the intersection of the human and fae worlds. The climax involves a thrilling confrontation that tests Kitty's skills and leaves the stage set for further adventures in the world of fae intrigue.