Book Review: The Shade of Things: A Humorous Paranormal Women’s Fiction by Deborah Wilde
When I first picked up The Shade of Things, I felt an instant connection to protagonist Miriam Feldman—a smart, sassy lady who’s navigating the magical chaos of her midlife. Author Deborah Wilde has a unique way of blending humor with the supernatural, and as a reader who appreciates snarky heroines, I was all in from the first page.
In this fifth installment of the Magic After Midlife series, we find Miri, our fierce yet relatable heroine, teaming up with her ex-husband—yes, you read that right! The duo embarks on a haphazard mission to uncover the mystery of a magically charged missing persons case, leading to more mayhem than Miri ever bargained for. Along for the ride is a mouthy golem who injects some hilarity into the serious undertones of a deadly competition targeting non-magic humans.
One of the standout features of Wilde’s writing is her ability to navigate the wild landscape of supernatural challenges while maintaining a deeply human connection. Miri is not only on a quest to save an innocent young woman; she’s also grappling with her own emotional demons, notably her oath to a master vampire concerning her parents’ unsolved murders. Talk about drama!
Wilde’s creative brilliance shines through in her clever narrative and character depth. Miri’s witty comments during tense situations had me laughing out loud, and I felt an emotional stake in her relationship with Laurent, the wolf shifter. Wilde captures not only Miri’s life but also the intimate relationships that define our paths—including the shadows of past lives and the secrets we keep from those we love. There’s a line that really resonated with me: “Weird was a distant signpost in the rearview mirror of my life.” It succinctly encapsulates Miri’s journey—a blend of the bizarre and the heartwarming, navigating life’s complexities.
The pacing of The Shade of Things is exhilarating. Wilde’s ability to blend action and humor keeps the reader engaged, with twists so unexpected they had me gasping in delight. Each chapter left me hungry for more, and before I knew it, I was flipping pages late into the night. Wilde crafts an intriguing tapestry of lore where culture and magic are intertwined, which I found incredibly refreshing.
For anyone who enjoys a well-crafted urban fantasy that doesn’t shy away from real emotions, personal growth, and relationships complicating the magical realm, this book is a must-read. The slow-burn romance adds a delightful pause to the chaos, making the stakes feel all the more real. If you’ve missed the chance to binge the entire series, do yourself a favor and start now.
Ultimately, The Shade of Things is not just a paranormal adventure; it’s a celebration of the resilience of women, the complexities of midlife, and the joy of rediscovering oneself amid the chaos. I came for the magic, but I stayed for the heart. If you’re ready for a fun ride filled with snark, a little danger, and that special dash of true connection, grab a copy and settle in. You won’t regret it!