Book Review: Throwing Shade: A Humorous Paranormal Women’s Fiction (Magic After Midlife Book 1) by Deborah Wilde
I’ll admit, the title Throwing Shade immediately piqued my curiosity. As someone who enjoys a healthy dose of snark and supernatural shenanigans, I was intrigued to see how Deborah Wilde would blend humor with the world of magic. And let me just say: this book is as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer day! Wilde’s ability to weave humor into an engaging narrative truly makes this story stand out in the crowded realm of paranormal fiction.
At the heart of the book is Miriam Feldman, who’s tired of wearing shapewear and equally exhausted by the unexciting life of a law librarian. Instead, she’s ready to unleash the shadow magic she’s kept hidden for far too long. The stakes get even higher when her ride-or-die friend goes missing, embroiling Miri in a shadowy world of vampires and other supernatural beings. Can we take a moment to appreciate the fierce blend of friendship and self-discovery that drives this plot? Wilde expertly captures the complexities of motherhood while introducing elements of magic that feel richly woven into the fabric of reality.
One of the most delightful aspects of Throwing Shade is Miriam herself. She’s a relatable character with emotional depth, navigating the challenges of single motherhood while discovering her own agency. I couldn’t help but root for her as she discovered the freedom of embracing her magical powers. Plus, the banter between her and Laurent, the grumpy French wolf shifter, is pure gold. Their dynamic adds a layer of humor that kept me giggling, especially when Laurent mocks Miri’s meticulous To-Do lists. I found myself laughing out loud during their roller-coaster moments.
Wilde’s writing style is both approachable and engaging, immersing you entirely in Miri’s world without overwhelming you with jargon. The pacing is well-executed, as each twist and turn in the plot unfolded in a way that kept my attention firmly captured. Wilde manages to make the supernatural world accessible, using relatable humor that resonates on multiple levels. I particularly appreciated how the book includes a unique perspective by blending Jewish cultural elements into the narrative; it made the experience feel multi-dimensional.
One highlight I noted was how Miri’s journey reflects many women’s experiences of rediscovery and empowerment. As one reviewer put it, “Finally, a middle-aged mom gets the chance to save herself!” It’s that authenticity that makes this book not just an enjoyable read but a meaningful one as well.
In conclusion, Throwing Shade is a delightful romp through a world of quirky magic and humorous twists, perfect for readers looking for a blend of urban fantasy with relatable characters. If you appreciate strong female leads, a well-developed magical world, and laughs along the way, then grab this book! It’s not just a story about magic—it’s a journey of self-acceptance, empowerment, and the gut-wrenching hilarity of midlife madness. I, for one, can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series!
Happy reading!