Review of The Shade of Things: A Humorous Paranormal Women’s Fiction (Magic After Midlife Book 5) by Deborah Wilde
From the moment I picked up The Shade of Things, I was drawn in by its whimsical, yet thrilling premise. Deborah Wilde, the talented author, has a knack for combining humor and the supernatural in a way that feels both relatable and exhilarating. Having followed Miriam Feldman’s journey through the Magic After Midlife series, I couldn’t resist diving back into her chaotic world, where normality takes a backseat to mouthy golems and mystical mysteries.
The Premise
Miriam’s life in this installment is a blend of mayhem and absurdity akin to Running Man mixed with the captivating tension of Squid Game, all while she longs for the calm of The Great British Bake Off. But this is no baking show; Miriam embarks on a dangerous odyssey to find a missing person while reluctantly teaming up with her detective ex-husband—and let’s not forget a forced partnership with a sarcastic golem. The stakes couldn’t be higher, especially as she navigates her broken past tied to her parents’ murders and a master vampire’s cryptic demands.
Themes & Character Dynamics
What struck me the most was Miriam’s development as a character. With every book, she continues to defy the typical narrative of aging female protagonists in urban fantasy. She embodies strength, wit, and a refusal to conform to expectations—a refreshing breath of air in a genre often saturated with stereotypes.
The emotional undercurrents are palpable, particularly with the evolving dynamics between Miriam and her wolf shifter love interest, Laurent. Their slow burn romance, punctuated by secrets and tension, added depth to the already rich narrative. One standout line, "Weird was a distant signpost in the rearview mirror of my life," encapsulates the essence of Miriam’s journey—a woman unafraid to embrace her quirks while navigating a supernatural minefield.
Writing Style and Pacing
Wilde’s writing is crisp, engaging, and laced with humorous undertones that kept me chuckling even amidst thrilling twists and turns. The pacing is relentless, particularly in the action scenes, allowing me to feel the urgency and excitement of each plot point without feeling overwhelmed. The integration of the magical elements seamlessly intertwines with a narrative that feels deeply rooted in Miriam’s Jewish identity, making the story as much about culture as it is about adventure.
Personal Connection
Reading The Shade of Things was like catching up with an old friend. I laughed, gasped, and even found myself wistful at moments, which showcases Wilde’s ability to evoke genuine emotion through storytelling. It’s a series that absolutely captivates, making you want to binge-read the entire collection in one go.
Conclusion
This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a cheeky blend of humor, action, and the supernatural. If you appreciate stories that challenge ageist stereotypes and celebrate resilience while also delivering thrilling narratives, you’ll adore Miriam’s escapades. I found myself reflecting on the balance of chaos and love in our lives, and how sometimes, it’s the trials we face that define us most.
So, grab a cozy blanket and prepare for a fantastically fun ride through The Shade of Things!