Book Review: Made in the Shade by Deborah Wilde
When I stumbled upon Made in the Shade, the second installment of Deborah Wilde’s Magic After Midlife series, I was immediately enchanted by the premise. A sassy, smart heroine navigating the chaotic world of magic and murder? Yes, please! As someone who delights in stories featuring strong female protagonists, I was curious to see how Miriam Feldman would tackle her midlife adventures—especially as she embraces her magical heritage with all its peculiarities.
In this delightful romp, our protagonist, Miriam, finds herself knee-deep in trouble as she becomes a fixer for the magical community. But this isn’t your typical cozy mystery; it’s packed with witty banter, a mouthy golem, and of course, a sprinkle of romance with her wolf shifter friend, Laurent. What truly hooked me about Miriam is her relatable grumpiness and refusal to bow to societal expectations. Her journey—balancing the demands of her job, family, and her newfound magical reality—felt like a refreshing mirror to the complexities of life after forty.
Wilde’s writing style strikes a perfect balance between humor and heartfelt moments. The pacing is brisk, drawing you into a tapestry where each character shines. The witty repartee had me laughing aloud, particularly during interactions between Miri and Laurent. One standout moment is when Miri quips, “Adulting is hard, especially with magic at play”—a sentiment that resonates all too well.
The book’s blend of mystery and romantic tension keeps you turning pages rapidly. Watching Miri’s relationship with Laurent evolve from playful banter to deeper emotional connections is a slow-burn delight. One review I encountered poignantly captures this arc, noting the "deliciousness" of their chemistry—a sentiment I wholeheartedly echo.
Of course, Made in the Shade also tackles the theme of identity and self-acceptance, especially poignant for those of us in midlife. As Miri grapples with her past and her abilities, she exemplifies the struggles of many women who feel compelled to reinvent themselves. Wilde deftly weaves in elements of humor and poignant wisdom, making her story not just entertaining but also reflective.
As I turned the final pages, I found myself yearning for more adventures with Miriam and her eclectic cast of characters. Wilde has crafted a world that’s both enchanting and hilariously relatable. If you’re seeking a fun escape with a heroine who’s unafraid to embrace her quirks, then Made in the Shade might just be your next favorite read.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to fans of urban fantasy and humor, as well as to those who appreciate compelling stories about women navigating the complexities of life. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of paranormal fiction or new to the genre, Miriam’s journey promises to resonate with anyone who’s ever felt a little lost in the chaos of life. Grab your own copy, brew a cup of your favorite tea, and dive into this magical escapade—you won’t regret it!