Made in the Shade: A Whirlwind of Humor and Magic
When I stumbled upon Made in the Shade by Deborah Wilde, I felt an instant attraction—not only to the whimsical title but also to the premise of a witty, midlife heroine battling magical chaos. As someone who appreciates stories that embrace the quirks and complexities of adulthood, I was eager to dive into Miriam’s world, especially since this sequel follows the delightful antics of the first book in the Magic After Midlife series.
Right from the start, we meet Miriam Feldman, who has traded her conventional life for the unpredictability of the magical community. As a new fixer, she grapples with a murder accusation, a particularly sassy golem, and an increasingly complicated relationship with her wolf shifter friend, Laurent. Miriam is the embodiment of the saying “age is just a number”—an ageless heroine who faces both supernatural and deeply human challenges, proving that mischief and humor only get better with age.
The blend of humor and peril is simply captivating. The writing style is sharp and full of delightful banter; Wilde’s ability to infuse humor in tense situations kept me chuckling long after I put the book down. One memorable line that had me in stitches was when Miriam quips that dealing with the magic police is “like being a full-time mom for kids who don’t respond to guilt trips.” Such clever observations made me reflect on the chaos of motherhood in a fantastical light, reminding me how relatable Miriam is despite her extraordinary circumstances.
Pacing is another element where Wilde shines. The storyline twists and turns like a well-crafted rollercoaster, keeping readers glued to the pages. The slow-burn romance between Miriam and Laurent had me both sighing and rooting for them, as their chemistry simmers beneath the surface, promising a fiery explosion in future installments. The character development is robust, showcasing Miriam’s growth as she grapples with her past and personal identity. Her evolution resonates deeply with readers who are navigating their own midlife adventures.
Many reviews echo my appreciation for the book’s humor and heart. One reader mentioned how it’s “designed to take us experienced women on a magic ride full of laughter,” encapsulating perfectly what makes this story a joy to read. Another highlighted how it’s refreshing to have a heroine who’s relatable, witty, and unapologetically herself—traits that make her both endearing and inspiring.
Made in the Shade is an adventure that delights in the fusion of the paranormal and everyday life, making it perfect for those of us who love seeing midlife characters face off against absurdity with humor and resilience. This book will resonate with readers who appreciate a good mystery sprinkled with romance, magical mishaps, and sharp wit.
Overall, my experience with this book was not just entertaining but also a reminder of the beauty found in embracing one’s identity, no matter the age. If you’re looking for a light-hearted yet enriching escapade filled with fantastical elements and genuine laughter, then grab this book, and prepare for a whirlwind of fun!