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Leveling Up #4
Magical Midlife Love
The fourth book in the Wall Street Journal bestselling Leveling Up series.
The Ivy House team is shaping up, but there are still holes to be filled, and a magical summons outstanding. Jessie needs a teacher. Someone who can fit in with the whacky Ivy House crew. And that was going just fine...until she gets a request to host a powerful, neighboring mage.
A teacher isn't going to be enough. She needs more power in her crew. She needs some might.
This time, Austin Steele might not be able to dominate what she calls in, creatures no shifter has ever dominated before.
But that isn't all Austin has to worry about. After a skirmish in the bar, suddenly his whole world is turned upside down. He can no longer ignore the feelings that have been growing for Jess.
He also can't ignore the town's complete lack of readiness for the neighboring mage's visit. He must call in his brother to help lock down the town. And when his brother arrives, he must finally hash out the past that has split them apart so that he can claim his future.
The Ivy House team is shaping up, but there are still holes to be filled, and a magical summons outstanding. Jessie needs a teacher. Someone who can fit in with the whacky Ivy House crew. And that was going just fine...until she gets a request to host a powerful, neighboring mage.
A teacher isn't going to be enough. She needs more power in her crew. She needs some might.
This time, Austin Steele might not be able to dominate what she calls in, creatures no shifter has ever dominated before.
But that isn't all Austin has to worry about. After a skirmish in the bar, suddenly his whole world is turned upside down. He can no longer ignore the feelings that have been growing for Jess.
He also can't ignore the town's complete lack of readiness for the neighboring mage's visit. He must call in his brother to help lock down the town. And when his brother arrives, he must finally hash out the past that has split them apart so that he can claim his future.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2021
About the author
K.F. Breene
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K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With over three million books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children and out of work treadmill.
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K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With over three million books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
Check out her chat group on Goodreads!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 977 reviews
January 1, 2022
I’ll have to say that this one had a bit of a slow start for me which I wasn’t expecting. Yet after a while, the ball starts rolling and before you know it, it’s steamrolling downhill and you literally CANNOT put the book down. It may take a little while, but then it becomes apparent that everything has been (or appears to be) thoroughly thought out and you’re able to start seeing the bigger picture in Jacinta’s Magical Midlife world. Little easter-egg hints are scattered throughout the chapters making it that much more enjoyable to read. Oh and we finally get some sexy time for Jacinta, but Breene still doesn’t shy away from the awkward moments that seem to pop up from time to time around Jacinta and her crew.
Though the characters are well and truly developed by now, it’s always fascinating to learn even more about them in aspects you never dreamed of. And there are plenty of new characters and creatures as well. I absolutely LOVE how Breene doesn’t focus on one supernatural creature. She’s always throwing a wrench into her books and gives you her take on another mythical creature who’s really a shifter and making it that much more exciting. I really can’t wait to hear Nicole Poole narrate this one because I think it’ll be even better. And the twist in the last few chapters?!? It’s something you didn’t see coming, yet you totally should have, and now you’re kicking yourself that you didn’t, and still can’t really believe she just did that, but ohhhh yeah she did! I really really really want the next book NOW!
Though the characters are well and truly developed by now, it’s always fascinating to learn even more about them in aspects you never dreamed of. And there are plenty of new characters and creatures as well. I absolutely LOVE how Breene doesn’t focus on one supernatural creature. She’s always throwing a wrench into her books and gives you her take on another mythical creature who’s really a shifter and making it that much more exciting. I really can’t wait to hear Nicole Poole narrate this one because I think it’ll be even better. And the twist in the last few chapters?!? It’s something you didn’t see coming, yet you totally should have, and now you’re kicking yourself that you didn’t, and still can’t really believe she just did that, but ohhhh yeah she did! I really really really want the next book NOW!
December 26, 2024
Finally my two favorite characters stopped dancing around each other and... could they be mates?!? The MCs son comes home from college and gets to learn about magic and new fun characters come to play. I was grinning for most of the book. Excited in all the action packed scenes and of course really sad at one scene at the end. I can't wait until book 5!!
March 1, 2021
Magical Midlife Love
(Leveling Up #4)
by K.F. Breene
These books are so good! It's important to read these in order! There are things you must know to get full enjoyment out of the books by reading them in order. You might get a spoiler , small one or two, but still a spoiler if you read this before reading the others first.
This has a hilarious vampire, a brooding gargoyle butler, a hot shifter, hot gargoyles as body guards, a house with an attitude and an army of evil dolls, a Bigfoot with a sense of humor ( at times and a short temper at other times), and so much more!
There is a bit of suspense, lots of humor, great characters, romance, and fun! Bad guys vs hot good guys! Scheming plans is under way by dark magic! Beware!
I loved all the very opening which really didn't fit. Our star gal is letting people attack her so she can practice her powerful defense magic. She is not to be hurt in the activity. A bar patron that hates her stabs her. Her hunk of a boyfriend and unofficial mayor comes and he isn't mad or upset. He scolds her for blasting the jerk too hard. She is still bleeding! Normally he is very possessive.
(Leveling Up #4)
by K.F. Breene
These books are so good! It's important to read these in order! There are things you must know to get full enjoyment out of the books by reading them in order. You might get a spoiler , small one or two, but still a spoiler if you read this before reading the others first.
This has a hilarious vampire, a brooding gargoyle butler, a hot shifter, hot gargoyles as body guards, a house with an attitude and an army of evil dolls, a Bigfoot with a sense of humor ( at times and a short temper at other times), and so much more!
There is a bit of suspense, lots of humor, great characters, romance, and fun! Bad guys vs hot good guys! Scheming plans is under way by dark magic! Beware!
I loved all the very opening which really didn't fit. Our star gal is letting people attack her so she can practice her powerful defense magic. She is not to be hurt in the activity. A bar patron that hates her stabs her. Her hunk of a boyfriend and unofficial mayor comes and he isn't mad or upset. He scolds her for blasting the jerk too hard. She is still bleeding! Normally he is very possessive.
March 2, 2021
Hoooo Boy this book was awesome! Ms. Breene was in rare form when writing it. It flowed so well, I never felt uncomfortable when reading it, I truly got lost in the pages. Time flew and absolutely nothing pulled me out of the story.
We got to meet more family, both from Jessie’s side and Austin's. It all went swimmingly. Her son was just great, I hope he comes for another visit (so does Mr. Tom lol)
Superdooper Supes join the team and even I’m a bit in awe of them. And I got my wish for more “Bigfoot” in my life (I keep calling him John in my head), he's freaking perfect.
But most importantly... I FINALLY got my itch scratched vicariously through Jess and Austin, holy crow it was worth the wait! Not gonna lie I kinda want to beat up Jess and steal her man. The whole time I was reading this book I was metaphorically making “gimme” hands. I choked on jealousy. You get the idea. That man is fiiiiiiine.
My respect for Jess shot through the roof with how she handled Austin's change in position. Well done, very well done.
And lordy, finally, THAT plot twist! Gah! Best. Twist. Evah!
We got to meet more family, both from Jessie’s side and Austin's. It all went swimmingly. Her son was just great, I hope he comes for another visit (so does Mr. Tom lol)
Superdooper Supes join the team and even I’m a bit in awe of them. And I got my wish for more “Bigfoot” in my life (I keep calling him John in my head), he's freaking perfect.
But most importantly... I FINALLY got my itch scratched vicariously through Jess and Austin, holy crow it was worth the wait! Not gonna lie I kinda want to beat up Jess and steal her man. The whole time I was reading this book I was metaphorically making “gimme” hands. I choked on jealousy. You get the idea. That man is fiiiiiiine.
My respect for Jess shot through the roof with how she handled Austin's change in position. Well done, very well done.
And lordy, finally, THAT plot twist! Gah! Best. Twist. Evah!
March 11, 2024
This series is a favorite, and this book was definitely a favorite within it. It was so great to see Jessie and Austin shake off the cycle that had become frustrating with them.
It was also really great to have a different pattern to the arc of the book. And goddamn, I can't wait to see how that all turns out.
The only quibble is that there were a couple jumps forward, and one in particular actually made me yell at the book in frustration, like "Wait, what?!" I wanted to meet the three new arrivals, see the aftermath of their arrival, as well as what was up with those wolves! It felt weird to leap a few weeks forward at that moment.
It is a small quibble though, because the core of the book was the unfolding - finally - of Austin and Jess, as well as a big leap forward in the overall arc. Also, meeting Sir-Stares-A-Lot was pretty great.
Jess and Austin really are perfect together. Seriously, couple goals.
I'm so glad the next book comes out in May!
re-read Jan 2023
This one is definitely a favorite in the series. I feel like all the character beats are just perfect, and the plot really unfolds well. The books before this were fun, but this was, for me, the book where the series became a serious favorite.
It was also really great to have a different pattern to the arc of the book. And goddamn, I can't wait to see how that all turns out.
The only quibble is that there were a couple jumps forward, and one in particular actually made me yell at the book in frustration, like "Wait, what?!" I wanted to meet the three new arrivals, see the aftermath of their arrival, as well as what was up with those wolves! It felt weird to leap a few weeks forward at that moment.
It is a small quibble though, because the core of the book was the unfolding - finally - of Austin and Jess, as well as a big leap forward in the overall arc. Also, meeting Sir-Stares-A-Lot was pretty great.
Jess and Austin really are perfect together. Seriously, couple goals.
I'm so glad the next book comes out in May!
re-read Jan 2023
This one is definitely a favorite in the series. I feel like all the character beats are just perfect, and the plot really unfolds well. The books before this were fun, but this was, for me, the book where the series became a serious favorite.
February 11, 2021
Wow! This book is just amazing. As Jessie and Ivy House continue to connect and grow together, the stakes are higher than ever. Jessie's sending out summons left and right, and some incredible new team mates show up on the scene. What K.F. Breene wrote in here was so magical and original. Twists and turns are everywhere and I was surprised over and over again. The team gets their first taste of how the magical world outside of O'Briens works and the action and intrigue is perfection. And Austin Steele, *sigh. Austin Steele is everything. I adore this series and am so excited for what's to come.
November 22, 2022
First, let me say, I'm not a romance reader. The first book in the series was not a romance in my opinion but more fantasy and "paranormal." It was fun and witty and with lots of little plot twists. The main characters were distinct in their own unusual, quirky way. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book.
Each successive book has gone downhill and with this one, its disappointing. The characters have lost their pizzazz, humor is lacking and the plot predictable (with the exception of the final twist I didn't see coming.) Chapters are devoted to the romance of the main characters. Needless to say, there are chapters of the book I completely skipped and didn't miss a bit of the story, not that there was much of one.
I will read the final book when it is released hoping for a return to the 1st book format.
Wrote this after finishing the book. There is a change...I will NOT be reading any more of the series. There are just too many GOOD books out there.
Each successive book has gone downhill and with this one, its disappointing. The characters have lost their pizzazz, humor is lacking and the plot predictable (with the exception of the final twist I didn't see coming.) Chapters are devoted to the romance of the main characters. Needless to say, there are chapters of the book I completely skipped and didn't miss a bit of the story, not that there was much of one.
I will read the final book when it is released hoping for a return to the 1st book format.
Wrote this after finishing the book. There is a change...I will NOT be reading any more of the series. There are just too many GOOD books out there.
August 6, 2021
It took forever but at least the romance bits progressing rather nicely.
Love that ending twist! ❤️
Love that ending twist! ❤️
February 26, 2021
There is something about this series that I have loved from the very beginning. I will admit though, that I have been more than a little frustrated with the two crazy people whose feelings for each other have been flying right over both their heads. In this installment, we FINALLY start to make some progress. Well, come to think about it, it is REALLY good progress. We also get to be a fly on the wall and find out that Austin Steele has been being a naughty boy. He realized that our resident female gargoyle is fairly clueless when it comes to shifter behavior and thought that he would be able to claim her (to keep other men away from her) yet still take his time on letting her know how he has been feeling. Silly man....when will they ever learn...????
So, FINALLY we get forward movement from these two and *gasp* they also talk about their feelings and what they both want going forward. OMG, did the world end? Nope...just two crazy kids deciding to actually act in a mature manner. (But, tbh, I did do a small happy dance in my kitchen...but I won't admit that to just anyone!)
Besides this great leap forward, Jess also has a ton of other things going on (This book was truly jammed packed with lots and lots of things). We have mages still responding to her summons - but FINALLY have one who seems to be worthy...AND he gets along with the team. Then, she summoned help in the form of some powerful beings and BOY does she get some surprises on that end. And, she has also sent out a summons for another gargoyle "leader" and we are all pleasantly surprised with what happens there. So....quite an installment right? Lots of new people to meet and then to decide whether they are worthy....that is never easy.
We also get to meet Austin Steele's brother and if that isn't a great way to get a peek into what makes Austin tick, I don't know what is. Kingsley seems like a really good guy (I will be honest and say that I wasn't sure if that was going to be a good idea or not...but I am always happy to be wrong on things like this. )
And Jess' magic. For once, she seems to be learning at a pretty good pace and at least, from what we are told, has many less accidents and disasters than in the beginning. So...everything is going great, right?
Again, no spoilers but then we are a given information at the end of this book that is the equivalent to having a bucket of cold water thrown on our heads. Come on...seriously??? Can't we have a little bit of peace for at least one book? Obviously not. But, I am not sure how this is going to affect our merry band a crazy characters. Will it destroy them, or will it end up being something that makes things better ? (after everyone gets their pound of flesh, that is)
So, this book kept me intrigued and enthralled throughout the entire book. It went by way too quickly and I was so depressed when I realized that the book was over. I alternated between listening and reading, and as usual, had no problems with the narration. But, I will be waiting anxiously for the next installment. Trying to wait patiently, but that has never been my strong suit, so I'll probably fail at that miserably. Just being honest......
So, FINALLY we get forward movement from these two and *gasp* they also talk about their feelings and what they both want going forward. OMG, did the world end? Nope...just two crazy kids deciding to actually act in a mature manner. (But, tbh, I did do a small happy dance in my kitchen...but I won't admit that to just anyone!)
Besides this great leap forward, Jess also has a ton of other things going on (This book was truly jammed packed with lots and lots of things). We have mages still responding to her summons - but FINALLY have one who seems to be worthy...AND he gets along with the team. Then, she summoned help in the form of some powerful beings and BOY does she get some surprises on that end. And, she has also sent out a summons for another gargoyle "leader" and we are all pleasantly surprised with what happens there. So....quite an installment right? Lots of new people to meet and then to decide whether they are worthy....that is never easy.
We also get to meet Austin Steele's brother and if that isn't a great way to get a peek into what makes Austin tick, I don't know what is. Kingsley seems like a really good guy (I will be honest and say that I wasn't sure if that was going to be a good idea or not...but I am always happy to be wrong on things like this. )
And Jess' magic. For once, she seems to be learning at a pretty good pace and at least, from what we are told, has many less accidents and disasters than in the beginning. So...everything is going great, right?
Again, no spoilers but then we are a given information at the end of this book that is the equivalent to having a bucket of cold water thrown on our heads. Come on...seriously??? Can't we have a little bit of peace for at least one book? Obviously not. But, I am not sure how this is going to affect our merry band a crazy characters. Will it destroy them, or will it end up being something that makes things better ? (after everyone gets their pound of flesh, that is)
So, this book kept me intrigued and enthralled throughout the entire book. It went by way too quickly and I was so depressed when I realized that the book was over. I alternated between listening and reading, and as usual, had no problems with the narration. But, I will be waiting anxiously for the next installment. Trying to wait patiently, but that has never been my strong suit, so I'll probably fail at that miserably. Just being honest......
September 13, 2021
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Magical Midlife Love
Jessie is earning a name for herself in the magical world and within her town. But with her notoriety comes an increase in potential enemies. While the Ivy House team has certainly become more powerful, they are not at their peak performance. Jessie needs a skilled teacher in magic and to undergo a blood oath to reach her full potential. When she receives an invitation to meet with a powerful mage, she knows the team isn’t ready yet. They will have to shore up their defenses and prepare as best they can. But with the Ivy House gang, you know it will be an enchanting and humorous experience.
Magical Midlife Love kicked off with a visit from Jacinta’s son, but the time spent with him seemed rushed. After the hilarious visit from Jess’ parents in the last book, I was expecting more family time when her son came to visit. Granted there were some funny scenes, but the family dynamic didn’t build as much as I thought it would. However, even if this side story didn’t quite pan out, the rest of Magical Midlife Love definitely made up for it.
The addition of an adrenaline junkie mage with an inability to tell social cues was perfect. Every character in this series is a bit off, and it adds to the humorous chaos that encompasses Ivy House. Sebastian was a great balance to Austin’s growing power, making sure the story never veered too far into the serious side. Sebastion also brought to light the technical side of magic. I enjoyed learning about how magic worked and the different ways it could be used. He challenged Jessie to craft more complex spells and pushed her towards success.
I also enjoyed the return of Mr. Tom and Niev’s bantering back and forth. While present in the first book, their love-hate relationship has faded into the background as various characters and plot points have developed. As I listened to the audiobook, I couldn't help but laugh at their verbal sparring and antics.
Now let’s talk about the tension between Jessie and Austin. The tension that is so present all one or the other has to do is take a few steps and it will drag them under. This has been building and teasing readers since book one, growing in intensity as the series has progressed. While I can understand Jessie’s hesitation due to her divorce, I also think it’s been taking way too long for them to make a decision. Even by the end of this book, I’m left a bit confused as to why Jessie is struggling so hard to form a concrete relationship. But romance is also not normally my thing, I’m here for the humor and magic slinging action.
Magical Midlife Love was another fun installment to the Leveling up series. These books are easy reads that can help alleviate my mind when I’ve read heavier novels, or when I don’t want to work as hard putting together plot points. While the romance is a bit off, I enjoy the magical battles and the ever evolving team at Ivy House.
Jessie is earning a name for herself in the magical world and within her town. But with her notoriety comes an increase in potential enemies. While the Ivy House team has certainly become more powerful, they are not at their peak performance. Jessie needs a skilled teacher in magic and to undergo a blood oath to reach her full potential. When she receives an invitation to meet with a powerful mage, she knows the team isn’t ready yet. They will have to shore up their defenses and prepare as best they can. But with the Ivy House gang, you know it will be an enchanting and humorous experience.
Magical Midlife Love kicked off with a visit from Jacinta’s son, but the time spent with him seemed rushed. After the hilarious visit from Jess’ parents in the last book, I was expecting more family time when her son came to visit. Granted there were some funny scenes, but the family dynamic didn’t build as much as I thought it would. However, even if this side story didn’t quite pan out, the rest of Magical Midlife Love definitely made up for it.
The addition of an adrenaline junkie mage with an inability to tell social cues was perfect. Every character in this series is a bit off, and it adds to the humorous chaos that encompasses Ivy House. Sebastian was a great balance to Austin’s growing power, making sure the story never veered too far into the serious side. Sebastion also brought to light the technical side of magic. I enjoyed learning about how magic worked and the different ways it could be used. He challenged Jessie to craft more complex spells and pushed her towards success.
I also enjoyed the return of Mr. Tom and Niev’s bantering back and forth. While present in the first book, their love-hate relationship has faded into the background as various characters and plot points have developed. As I listened to the audiobook, I couldn't help but laugh at their verbal sparring and antics.
Now let’s talk about the tension between Jessie and Austin. The tension that is so present all one or the other has to do is take a few steps and it will drag them under. This has been building and teasing readers since book one, growing in intensity as the series has progressed. While I can understand Jessie’s hesitation due to her divorce, I also think it’s been taking way too long for them to make a decision. Even by the end of this book, I’m left a bit confused as to why Jessie is struggling so hard to form a concrete relationship. But romance is also not normally my thing, I’m here for the humor and magic slinging action.
Magical Midlife Love was another fun installment to the Leveling up series. These books are easy reads that can help alleviate my mind when I’ve read heavier novels, or when I don’t want to work as hard putting together plot points. While the romance is a bit off, I enjoy the magical battles and the ever evolving team at Ivy House.
March 14, 2021
4.5 Stars
So much fun!
I need the next book!
So much fun!
I need the next book!
February 25, 2021
What good story in book 4
This book 4 was good addition to the series.
With lots of action. Magic and twists and turns happening.
Jess and Austin finally get it on, thank goodness!!!!
I am never disappointed in any of her stories, looking forward to reading more.
This book 4 was good addition to the series.
With lots of action. Magic and twists and turns happening.
Jess and Austin finally get it on, thank goodness!!!!
I am never disappointed in any of her stories, looking forward to reading more.
February 24, 2021
What happens next?
This book gave me all kinds of feels.
Of course we knew Austin and Jessie would hook up, it was inevitable but for all those feelings and deeper meanings to come up to make the relationship seem more than a rebound was sooooooo thoughtful. It was an incredible nod to women who are at points in their life where they know what they want and what they won’t tolerate. Breene allowed Jessie the flexibility to explore those feelings and still maintain the little bit of independence she hard won for herself.
I kinda wanted more Jimmy time, we got to see and hear all sorts of craziness in the last installment with her parents it kinda just seemed too chill. Did she introduce him to any of the younger shifters or magical people who set up shop in the town? How’d that go?
Stray thoughts: I’m gonna be really peeved if we have to deal with a pregnancy scare or deal with a “geriatric” pregnancy in the next installment. They live during precarious/uncertain times and with the constant challenges and added stress of constant training, I just don’t want to see it play out or the all too real consequences of what a life like that could have on a high risk pregnancy.
Although it was kinda telegraphed early on not to implicitly trust Sebastian, I can’t say I wasn’t surprised at the reveal tho.
Needless to say, this review isn’t really selling how much of a brilliant and ENTERTAINING story this was. I enjoyed the banter and although I felt we were slipping into Breene’s familiar trope about how the women were badass and still incredibly naive when it comes to realizing their feelings for their partners I still very much enjoyed watching it all play out.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Seriously! Is it time for book 5 yet?
This book gave me all kinds of feels.
Of course we knew Austin and Jessie would hook up, it was inevitable but for all those feelings and deeper meanings to come up to make the relationship seem more than a rebound was sooooooo thoughtful. It was an incredible nod to women who are at points in their life where they know what they want and what they won’t tolerate. Breene allowed Jessie the flexibility to explore those feelings and still maintain the little bit of independence she hard won for herself.
I kinda wanted more Jimmy time, we got to see and hear all sorts of craziness in the last installment with her parents it kinda just seemed too chill. Did she introduce him to any of the younger shifters or magical people who set up shop in the town? How’d that go?
Stray thoughts: I’m gonna be really peeved if we have to deal with a pregnancy scare or deal with a “geriatric” pregnancy in the next installment. They live during precarious/uncertain times and with the constant challenges and added stress of constant training, I just don’t want to see it play out or the all too real consequences of what a life like that could have on a high risk pregnancy.
Although it was kinda telegraphed early on not to implicitly trust Sebastian, I can’t say I wasn’t surprised at the reveal tho.
Needless to say, this review isn’t really selling how much of a brilliant and ENTERTAINING story this was. I enjoyed the banter and although I felt we were slipping into Breene’s familiar trope about how the women were badass and still incredibly naive when it comes to realizing their feelings for their partners I still very much enjoyed watching it all play out.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Seriously! Is it time for book 5 yet?
January 1, 2025
Simply... wow!!!!
There are so many words I could use to talk about this book, but it could all be summarised into this one: WOW!!!!
Did I ever mention that K.F. Breene is an amazing author? I don’t care if I did. It bears repeating.
She.
Is.
FANTASTIC!!
And this new book once again epitomises the whole scope of her greatness, of her fantastic storytelling, of her way with giving birth to so close to life characters and situations.
And I love Ivy House, Jess, Austin (seriously my favourite male hero in all of the thousands of books that I have read in my life), and the whole crew.
And I’m looking much forward to having some questions answered in the next book!
There are so many words I could use to talk about this book, but it could all be summarised into this one: WOW!!!!
Did I ever mention that K.F. Breene is an amazing author? I don’t care if I did. It bears repeating.
She.
Is.
FANTASTIC!!
And this new book once again epitomises the whole scope of her greatness, of her fantastic storytelling, of her way with giving birth to so close to life characters and situations.
And I love Ivy House, Jess, Austin (seriously my favourite male hero in all of the thousands of books that I have read in my life), and the whole crew.
And I’m looking much forward to having some questions answered in the next book!
February 27, 2021
I can never get enough of this world. I am never able to put down these books. If you are looking for action packed misfits read to fight. This book has you covered. This book is all kinds of funny. We also see that age is just a number. Oh I am not even going to talk about how we get steamy sex in this book. No, I am. It was very hot sex that I thought I glasses would fog up. I did blush while reading because the family was in the front room. Note to self. Don't read while around people. I think everyone likes Jesse's son. I hope to see him again. I can't wait for the next book. It looks like we are going to be in for some surprises.
July 16, 2021
I finally got my “…genuinely satisfying night…” and was not disappointed.!.
Onto to book 5, with a big question in my book lover weirdo mind. Will I still HATE the twist in this installment? 🤔 Or, will the conclusion ease my displeasure? ⚖️
Excellent Story - Excellent Read
March 1, 2022
Magical Midlife Love is book 4 of the Leveling Up series. I LOVED this book. I think it is my favorite of the series. It might be because Jess and Austin finally let their guards down and gave in to their feelings for each other. It might also be because Austin’s brother Kingsley answered Austin’s call for help and we saw them reconcile and catch up after years apart. It might be because Jacinta’s son came for a visit and Mr. Tom did a whole Easter egg hunt for him and garden party for everyone. It might be because we saw all of them together as a family. It might be because Jess finally took her oath. Or maybe it was the Phoenix and the Thunderbird. I think it was all of the things. This book made me smile so big. It also kept me on my toes. There was an interesting twist toward the end so I am really looking forward to moving on to book 5 to see where things go from here. The narration was great. I definitely recommend this series. It is full of humor and excitement.
February 25, 2021
What I love is KF will always have you wondering what you are going to get. I love that she has no filter, divine sarcasm, lots of hilarity, and always outside the square thinking. I am never disappointed in any of her stories and this one is another brilliant story in a line of stories.
I also love that we are finally getting stories for women in an older age bracket that get to have the misadventure. I have not laughed so much in a long time. There is no need for me to share the book as KF's writing leads the way all by itself. Grab a drink or three and settle in for the best read of your life. Here's to middleage!!
I also love that we are finally getting stories for women in an older age bracket that get to have the misadventure. I have not laughed so much in a long time. There is no need for me to share the book as KF's writing leads the way all by itself. Grab a drink or three and settle in for the best read of your life. Here's to middleage!!
December 31, 2023
Holy cow! This book started off a little slow but I’ve been so invested in the characters from having grown through 3 books with them (lol) that I really didn’t mind too much.
But the twist! 😳😳😮🤯
I was thrown! And I’m so confused! I have so many questions! On to the next one! 😂
But the twist! 😳😳😮🤯
I was thrown! And I’m so confused! I have so many questions! On to the next one! 😂
May 23, 2021
Just pure ridiculous fun
(-0,006⭐ not enough mention of The Dolls)
(-0,006⭐ not enough mention of The Dolls)
November 10, 2023
Great action , great characters and surprising development .
light and fun book .
light and fun book .
April 27, 2021
Magical Midlife Love is the fourth book in K.F. Breene's Leveling Up series so I'm going to jump straight into this review assuming you've already read the first three (if you haven't, stop reading this review right now and go grab a copy of Magical Midlife Madness, this is a series that definitely needs to be read in order to be fully appreciated!)
The last book introduced us to Jessie's parents but this one brings her son home for a visit. He's in for quite a surprise when he realises how much his mother has changed but I loved how accepting he was about everything and especially the way he encouraged Jessie and Austin to take the next step. I think it was important for Jessie to have his approval and it was just another barrier coming down helping their relationship take another step in the right direction. Romance fans are definitely going to love some of the latest developments in this book. We also get to find out a lot more about Austin's past as his brother comes to town to help Austin prepare for potential war against the mages and I'm never going to complain about the introduction of more shifters into the series.
I've grown really attached to Jessie's crew now and they're always making me laugh with their silly antics but we've had some great additions to the cast over the last few books. I'm enjoying getting to know the gargoyles better and I really liked the mage Sebastian who has been helping Jessie with her magic. He's obviously hiding secrets though so it's going to be very interesting to see how that plays out as the series continues. These books are always great when I want something fun to take my mind off of real life and I hope K.F. Breene continues writing in this world for a long time to come.
The last book introduced us to Jessie's parents but this one brings her son home for a visit. He's in for quite a surprise when he realises how much his mother has changed but I loved how accepting he was about everything and especially the way he encouraged Jessie and Austin to take the next step. I think it was important for Jessie to have his approval and it was just another barrier coming down helping their relationship take another step in the right direction. Romance fans are definitely going to love some of the latest developments in this book. We also get to find out a lot more about Austin's past as his brother comes to town to help Austin prepare for potential war against the mages and I'm never going to complain about the introduction of more shifters into the series.
I've grown really attached to Jessie's crew now and they're always making me laugh with their silly antics but we've had some great additions to the cast over the last few books. I'm enjoying getting to know the gargoyles better and I really liked the mage Sebastian who has been helping Jessie with her magic. He's obviously hiding secrets though so it's going to be very interesting to see how that plays out as the series continues. These books are always great when I want something fun to take my mind off of real life and I hope K.F. Breene continues writing in this world for a long time to come.
January 11, 2022
Series Info/Source: This is the fourth book in the Leveling Up series. I borrowed this for my Kindle through Kindle Unlimited.
Thoughts: This was another very well done book in this series. I love that Jess’s son comes up to visit and that he gets involved in the story. Austin and Jess finally accept their relationship. Also Jess finally gets the magic teacher she needs.
The main premise of this book is that a powerful mage has requested to come and visit Jess to form a possible alliance. In order to prepare for this, Jess calls out for some powerful help and starts auditioning (in the Ivy House way) for magic teachers.
I enjoyed watching Jess grow and learn to use her powers. I also enjoyed having some new types of magical beings join the story. I did think it was odd that these new characters were added to Ivy House but then they were just brushed into the background. Especially the new ultra-powerful male gargoyle; he kind of shows up for a battle and then just gets shunted to the background…like you don’t even hear about him again for many chapters. It was almost like Breene added in a bit more than she could handle in the story so just decided to ignore it.
It was fun to see Jess and Austin finally make some progress in their relationship. Breene definitely doesn’t write the best love scenes, but she did okay and found a good balance between allowing the two to have some romance without diverting the story completely. As with previous books, there is a lot of action and I continue to love Ivy House and how it interacts with its residents. There was also a delicious (but not wholly unexpected) twist at the end of the book which I am excited to see play out in the next book.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this continues to be a creative and well done urban fantasy series. I am enjoying it. I love the unique magical beings, the crazy characters, and watching Jess grow into her power. It is fun to watch her and Austin build both a family and magical power base of sorts. I am excited to read Magical Meeting and eager to see where this series ends up going.
Thoughts: This was another very well done book in this series. I love that Jess’s son comes up to visit and that he gets involved in the story. Austin and Jess finally accept their relationship. Also Jess finally gets the magic teacher she needs.
The main premise of this book is that a powerful mage has requested to come and visit Jess to form a possible alliance. In order to prepare for this, Jess calls out for some powerful help and starts auditioning (in the Ivy House way) for magic teachers.
I enjoyed watching Jess grow and learn to use her powers. I also enjoyed having some new types of magical beings join the story. I did think it was odd that these new characters were added to Ivy House but then they were just brushed into the background. Especially the new ultra-powerful male gargoyle; he kind of shows up for a battle and then just gets shunted to the background…like you don’t even hear about him again for many chapters. It was almost like Breene added in a bit more than she could handle in the story so just decided to ignore it.
It was fun to see Jess and Austin finally make some progress in their relationship. Breene definitely doesn’t write the best love scenes, but she did okay and found a good balance between allowing the two to have some romance without diverting the story completely. As with previous books, there is a lot of action and I continue to love Ivy House and how it interacts with its residents. There was also a delicious (but not wholly unexpected) twist at the end of the book which I am excited to see play out in the next book.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this continues to be a creative and well done urban fantasy series. I am enjoying it. I love the unique magical beings, the crazy characters, and watching Jess grow into her power. It is fun to watch her and Austin build both a family and magical power base of sorts. I am excited to read Magical Meeting and eager to see where this series ends up going.
December 28, 2024
Basic Plot: Jess and Austin deepen their relationship while dealing with a mage intent on testing Ivy House's new caretaker.
As the title implies, a lot of this book is about Jess and Austin finally admitting feelings and coming fully together (Pun was accidental, I swear). It felt natural, and they seem like a solid couple. I like their dynamic.
There are some new figures on Jess's team now, making the cast of characters ever-expanding. This is something I worry about, as managing a large cast can be hard for authors to do well. It seems like Breene is sticking with her primaries and letting the new ones stay side characters for now. Some of them don't really have personalities at all yet. On the one hand, it makes it easier to follow the characters I care about already and not worry about the newbies so much. On the other, though, I don't really care about these characters that are now part of the story and that isn't typically good writing.
The "big twist" at the end of the book I called early in the story, but was still interested in finding out how the reveal would happen. It kept me interested. I think the author intended for this to be the effect on the reader. But there was more to the twist than expected, so there was still some surprise in there.
I'm still enjoying the series tremendously. My second go-around was listening to the Graphic Audio, which I highly recommend.
As the title implies, a lot of this book is about Jess and Austin finally admitting feelings and coming fully together (Pun was accidental, I swear). It felt natural, and they seem like a solid couple. I like their dynamic.
There are some new figures on Jess's team now, making the cast of characters ever-expanding. This is something I worry about, as managing a large cast can be hard for authors to do well. It seems like Breene is sticking with her primaries and letting the new ones stay side characters for now. Some of them don't really have personalities at all yet. On the one hand, it makes it easier to follow the characters I care about already and not worry about the newbies so much. On the other, though, I don't really care about these characters that are now part of the story and that isn't typically good writing.
The "big twist" at the end of the book I called early in the story, but was still interested in finding out how the reveal would happen. It kept me interested. I think the author intended for this to be the effect on the reader. But there was more to the twist than expected, so there was still some surprise in there.
I'm still enjoying the series tremendously. My second go-around was listening to the Graphic Audio, which I highly recommend.
February 20, 2021
Well hot darn on a lollipop stick! This is how you write a series of books. You tantalize the senses, you make the reader laugh his head off, believe in the characters, keep us engrossed in the tale that is being told and above all, make us wish we were there among the action. For me, this book had all that was needed to keep my interest and some. All the right components do not just happen. You need a talented author to make them all come together and K.F.Breene is one heck of an author. She is not the Queen for nothing. I was so not ready for the twist at the end. Looking forward to what comes next in the Leveling Up series is a gross understatement. I am craving it with every bit of my being. I need my fix.
February 25, 2021
Magic and secrets
This book is a wonderful continuation of the world created by the author. When a woman going through a divorce suddenly finds herself in possession of a magical houses and then magic is bestowed upon her. She has to create a council though to protect herself and the house. The more she learns of the magical world the more danger she seems to get into but her allies are there to help her. I enjoyed this book and give it a 3 1/2 star rating - it had a good plot twist and I really do enjoy the fresher older woman character who now discovers magic rather than a high schooler or young adult - I just didn’t enjoy it quite as much as previous books in this series.
This book is a wonderful continuation of the world created by the author. When a woman going through a divorce suddenly finds herself in possession of a magical houses and then magic is bestowed upon her. She has to create a council though to protect herself and the house. The more she learns of the magical world the more danger she seems to get into but her allies are there to help her. I enjoyed this book and give it a 3 1/2 star rating - it had a good plot twist and I really do enjoy the fresher older woman character who now discovers magic rather than a high schooler or young adult - I just didn’t enjoy it quite as much as previous books in this series.
February 24, 2021
Ahhh! Finally. After 3 full books and a half. I honestly love it's not instantaneous. I mean yeah, there is attraction, but they mostly remained friends and get to know each other first. Which is very nice.
As usual, love the latest book! So when will the next one comes out?😂 I have to say though, I am now confused on his goal. Why does he do that. And Ivy House keeps it a secret? Why?
As usual, love the latest book! So when will the next one comes out?😂 I have to say though, I am now confused on his goal. Why does he do that. And Ivy House keeps it a secret? Why?
April 1, 2021
I love this series, but I thought the reveal at about 96% was more hook-alike than expected from this author. She writes well enough that she doesn't need insipid tricks like that.
That said, I laughed out loud several times while listening to this, which is often the case for me with this series in general. For those reasons I have not down graded my rating for the hook at the near-end.
That said, I laughed out loud several times while listening to this, which is often the case for me with this series in general. For those reasons I have not down graded my rating for the hook at the near-end.
November 26, 2021
Yes, finally! (Spoiler Alert)
OMG, Freaking finally! Austin and Jessie finally got it together and let some of the steam out of the pot! Yessss, I was so rooting for these two.. So I guess my real question is what the hell is going on with Sebastian\ Elliot Graves.. Just wondering how's he going to play this out...🤔 Well off to book 4!
Overall Rating:
4* ~ A Good Read
OMG, Freaking finally! Austin and Jessie finally got it together and let some of the steam out of the pot! Yessss, I was so rooting for these two.. So I guess my real question is what the hell is going on with Sebastian\ Elliot Graves.. Just wondering how's he going to play this out...🤔 Well off to book 4!
Overall Rating:
4* ~ A Good Read
March 23, 2023
Need the next!!! Soooo good
Omg, finally. And it was so good. I literally cant say anything else without giving something away, so leaving it at soooooo good. The only bad part about the whole book is having to wait for the next one.
Omg, finally. And it was so good. I literally cant say anything else without giving something away, so leaving it at soooooo good. The only bad part about the whole book is having to wait for the next one.
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