Forty Proof and Dead

Magical Midlife Death #2

by Tia Didmon

Part human. Part witch. Totally dead.

My transition into the Shadow Bone clan has been less than smooth, with my drag queen ex continuing to break protocols. On top of juggling my unusual family dynamic; my bloodthirsty mentor and vampire leader are at odds about my future as a death dealer.

When the coven high priestess unearths a prophecy about a medieval witch that transitioned, and was lost to blood madness, Rene and I hunt for a scroll that depicts her. After another attempt on my life and the death of a clan member, we believe this conspiracy predates the Lycan war, and another is coming.

As my power intensifies, and more vampires are targeted, will I choose between the coven that raised me or the clan that despises me?

Find out what prowls the shadows of Black Blossom County by reading Forty Proof and Dead, the new Paranormal Women's Fiction series readers are comparing to Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, and Victoria Dannan.

One click to continue this undead Magical Midlife adventure now!

Genres: Vampires, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Fantasy

180 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 8, 2023

About the author

Tia Didmon is a USA Today bestselling author of paranormal women's fiction and provocative paranormal romance. When Tia isn't busy writing about sexy shifters and dreamy demons, she spends her time binge-watching The Order and reruns of The Vampire Diaries, cooking with her daughter, and serving her cat. Her love of writing stems from a self-diagnosed book addiction.

Subscribe to Tia's newsletter at tiadidmon.com for a free book and start your journey through Tia's supernatural world today!

Reviews

[Stephani Amstadter · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is a short story not a book SRSLY??

Excellent writing, intriguing story , Decent characters..

If this was sold as a short story, I would have given it 4 stars. But selling this as a book when it took me less than 75 minutes to read is a joke. It is unprofessional, demeaning to other writers and insulting to all of us readers.

I cannot recommend this author, this publisher or their FAKE books.

[Cath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two of the Magical Midlife Death series and the main character is former weak level witch Raven, who was killed by a rogue vampire and survived, the first of her kind. She still has her witch powers, which have amazingly grown so much more powerful as well as her new vampire abilities that she is just getting trained in. Her coven leader Ursula has already tried to kill her, fearing she is the blood witch of prophecy, and Rene, the vampire overseer, has taken her under his protection. That is something many vampires are not happy about and many are not happy that she is in the Shadow Bone clan. She has Cass (Cassera), the head of his Death Dealer squad, as her mentor, and Raven is edging towards wanting to become a death dealer, but she has a couple of years to try out different types of roles within the vampire world. She still has issues with Dimitri, the Shadow Bone can leader, but his actions soon cause him trouble with Rene and Cass, who are very taken with Raven and on her side. There is some mystery between Raven and Rene’s reactions to her, at a point in his long life where he was not normally showing any human like reactions, where he seems very attracted to her and coming alive!

Raven has to follow a number of new rules as a fledging vampire, but sometimes they are a bit too much and she hasn’t actually been told all of them, nor about how vampire society works. Some of this is because of her unique situation and some because too many people have been trying to kill her for Cass to go over everything to her. A page from this prophecy is in the hands of the coven high priestess and Rene has sent Dimitri and others to look for any of the other pages. This prophecy was written by a former witch and possibly seer, who was turned by a vampire in medieval times, but succumbed to blood madness within months. Most know nothing of this witch and Raven is the only one to have survived since, with each subsequent coven high priestess sworn to kill any witch who did survive, before they could fulfil the prophecy of becoming the blood witch! Another vampire is killed by being turned to stone and an attempt made on Raven’s life, as well as the witch coven high priestess apparently wanting her back all of a sudden. She is suddenly being given a choice of returning to the witch coven where she was hated and thought useless, or stay with the vampire clan where she is suddenly finding new powers and a slight connection. Problems push Raven to run off to her ex at his drag club and her daughter, but that is not something she should have done unaccompanied! More troubles for Raven as she tries to adjust to her unwanted new life, with a large number of the clan on the hatred side with Dimitri, and only Cass and Rene seemingly on her side. More to come regarding the blood witch prophecy and I look forward to seeing what happens next! I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forty Proof And Dead is the second book in the Magical Midlife Death series. This is not a standalone book. The story picks up exactly where it left off in Forever Forty, the first book, left off.

Raven St. Clare continues to learn what it means to be a vampire with the help of Cassara and Rene. Raven learns about Rene's beginnings and she shares her history with Rodney and Isra.

She is invited to meet with Ursula to discuss the prophecy and while everyone is hesitant given the last meeting, Raven feels the risk is worthwhile. Of course Ursula always has something up her sleeve and when Raven refuses to tell Rene, he crosses a line. As a result, Raven breaks a rule fully expecting to be punished.

Deanna, her Powerful Petals business partner, asks to meet to discuss the future of the business, but their meeting is interrupted and once again, Raven's "life" is in danger.

It took me a moment to remember where things left off in the first book, but once I did, I quickly jumped back into the story. As usual, Didmon leaves us with a juicy cliffhanger. I need more!!!

I am really enjoying these characters, and learning about this world the author has created where humans are aware of supernaturals and interact with them. I love how Raven is so relatable and how Rene, while incredibly powerful is sometimes clueless. Cass is fantastic! I love her strength, her attitude, her snark, and how others fear her. Oh, and Isra is delightfully flamboyant and fun. He has such a good heart and his love and support are unyielding.

There were so many Easter eggs hidden in this book paving the way for what's to come. Fortunately I won't have to wait too long. Book three, Forty Shades Of Dead, is expected Jan 2024.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Didmon keeps us on the edge with an enticing cliffhanger that leaves me yearning for more! The characters in this series are becoming dearer with each chapter, and the author's creation of a world where humans and supernaturals coexist is utterly engrossing. Raven's relatable nature juxtaposed with Rene's immense power, occasionally coupled with cluelessness, adds a dynamic that keeps the story intriguing.

Cass, with her incredible strength, attitude, and undeniable snark, steals the spotlight effortlessly. Her fearless demeanor and the awe she commands make her a captivating character. Isra, on the other hand, is a delightful addition with his flamboyant personality and infectious fun. His unwavering love and support for others make him a cherished part of the narrative.

Moreover, the book is laden with hidden Easter eggs, hinting at what's to come—a clever touch that builds anticipation for future developments. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment, eager to uncover the secrets and revelations these subtle clues have hinted at!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Cassara deals with Raven. I also love how Rene is changing around Raven. We find out where the vamp that killed and accidentally turned Raven came from and he is dealt with. Yay. Raven is a fledgling, a vampire child until she learns everything she needs to, even though she was a low level witch before her death. Her old coven has tried to kill her numerous times because of an old prophecy. Her daughter and the father of her child are great, I love them, even tho they are regular humans. We learn about Rene’s human life in this book which was fascinating. However, things go to heck with a hand basket with purple and gold gilded cushions. Total Mayhem ensues and we get to see Cassara and Rene kick bums. We also learn about the previous vampire overseer. That was some scary stuff. Something is going on as vampires are beginning to turn to stone and die. I was very upset over one of them. Have a box of tissues nearby if you are soft-hearted.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven's Choices . . .

Raven St. Clare, a witch, was attacked at her flower shop by a rogue vampire, expected to die but unexpectedly became a vampire and is now part of the Shadow Bone Clan! Raven is trying to adjust to her new situation with the leader Rene as her mentor and Cassara (the death dealer) as her only friend. Rene is having major adjustment issues as well since Raven does not jump when he says jump and can actually stubbornly ignore him if she doesn’t agree. His orders had never been questioned or resisted before she came along, and he doesn’t quite know how to respond.

Life is definitely not going to be easy for Raven being caught between the coven that raised her and the clan that hates her. But the reader gets to enjoy the battle of wills and the way the two of them just may be falling in love. But a prophecy about a witch who transitioned and went mad may put Raven in danger as neither the coven nor the clan trusts her. Is she the blood witch that was predicted?

[Esmeralda Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tia Didmon's "Forty Proof and Dead: Paranormal Women's Fiction (Rise of the Blood Witch) (Magical Midlife Death Book 2)" is a gripping and intense book that will keep you captivated! This paranormal women's fiction tale follows a strong and multifaceted heroine as she makes her way into the Shadow Bone clan, balancing family relationships, mentorship, and prophecy. This novel is a must-read for aficionados of paranormal women's fiction, as it perfectly blends mystery, suspense, and fantasy. The author expertly weaves a story of power, loyalty, and self-discovery, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you follow the protagonist on her path. Readers who enjoy Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, and Victoria Danann will adore this new series, which promises an undead Magical Midlife experience unlike any other. With one click, you can continue your trip and discover what lurks in the shadows of Black Blossom County.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven's life as the first and only living vampire-witch hybrid continues as she struggles to accept that her human life is over and practically everyone hates her. She is hunted by witches and unwelcome among most of the vampires in the Shadow Bone Clan except for Rene and Cassara. Her business is no longer hers, neither is her home. All she has left of her human life are her best friend and her daughter.

Still lots of unknowns left to discover. Many of us can relate to Raven's unsettled feelings as she watches everything she ever knew being torn away from her. Rene is a mystery, but he seems determined to keep her safe and has given her Cass as a mentor. Raven never really had a close female friend before and Cass only seems to show her true self to Rene and Raven. I look forward to getting to know her better. Can't wait to see what happens at the upcoming vampire ball. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Avis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The life and death of Raven. I love reading about how Raven is adjusting to her "new" life. And then there is Rene. He has lived so long he doesn't know how to live. Or more correctly his life had no new surprises until Raven came into his life. I love how he has no clue how or what his actions do. He is the overseer and has been so used to everyone doing what he wants, when he wants ,he doesn't know how to " handle" Raven. After all she is stubborn and at times defiant.
Then there is Cass. She is a very good friend and mentor to Raven. And very protective. I love her sass.
Action packed , intrigue and I can see the budding of romance between Raven and Rene. I love how he tries yet doesn't. There is just the right amount of conflict to make it interesting. We learn more about Isra also. He does have an interesting life.
I can't wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her old family doesn't know what to do with her and her new is not convinced they want her. The transition is not going to be an easy one for our heroine.

This is book two of the series, but it does pretty well as a standalone. Most of the essential bits are covered early on.

This is a paranormal romance story with witches, vampires, shifters and the whole lot. The story is well written and easy to read with a plot that nonetheless has a lot going on. The setting is well developed and quite intriguing, and I continue to enjoy seeing new elements of it. The characters are equally well done. I like our heroine as she is tough and smart, just the way I like them. Add in a plot with plenty of mystery and intrigue and, of course, magic. Overall, this was an excellent addition to the series and I look forward to seeing what comes next.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.

[Layla · Rating 1 out of 5]

Patriarchal BS disguised as ‘women’s’ fiction

Perfectly wonderful story ruined by the author. Book 1: the women are strong and independent. Cass is a badass. Raven is relatively strong and retains her sense of self. This started to decline after book 3. Cass gets more and more ineffectual and Raven becomes a prop for a ‘paranormal WOMEN’s fiction” story that is, in truth about Rene. And then in book six: Cass’ position is usurped by a man. And Raven becomes a ‘queen’ with zero power, autonomy or authority. And now on this book Cass is treated like an incompetent teenager and constantly being reprimanded. Women’s fiction this is absolutely not. I started skimming hard in book 4 because I am interested in this war and the overarching plot. But the overbearing misogyny of the author has made it impossible to continue. The women are either seamstresses, and baublemakers, corrupt power hungry villains, or props used for male ambition. It’s frankly appalling.

[Megan (BookWorldFox) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forty Proof and Dead is book 2 of a page turning series. I just cannot get enough of these witty characters and the danger they seem to find themselves in. Raven is forty years old or at least she had been when she was murdered by a vampire that attacked her shop. For a witch like Raven a bite from a vampire is a death sentence and it was meant to be permanent. That was until Raven woke up in the morgue on an autopsy table and startled the mortician. Ever since waking up Raven has struggled to adjust to her new life as a fledgling vampire while learning that what she was taught as a witch might not be all there is to know. Danger lurks around every corner, will Raven survive her living death? Mystery and action with hints of romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life as a vampire is not easy for Raven. Rene is a frightening figure for her not only because he is a vampire but the HEAD one at that. She likes Cass the "tiny" killing machine. A meeting is once again set up with the coven head priestess, Cass doesn't like it because that woman tried to kill Raven. What the head priestess suggests is something that Raven doesn't like. But when Rene tries to get what happened from her he goes to the extreme which sets Raven off. Now Raven is realizing what she will miss most being one of the undead. But Rene's actions are anathema to her. Will things settle down at all between the two of them? Will Raven be able to handle what is happening now in her life?
Another thought provoking story that will mesmerize the reader till the last page in this book!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elizabeth Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoying the story. The writing, not so much. I can't decide if the typos and incorrect comma usage and the randomly incoherent sentences should be blamed on the author, editor, or kindle edition, but they're definitely distracting from the story.

More confusingly, almost nothing in the goodreads book description actually happens in the book. Raven breaks protocol, not Isra. There's no scroll searching, just some light exposition. And Raven's powers do seem to expand, but dare I say...magically, with no clear explanation of what is actually happening except for some mystical shield and two sentences about excitable plants. Isra's drag routine and Jana's boy troubles get more explanation than the "highlights" of this story.

Again, I'm enjoying the story. And I'm not expecting Austen or Hemmingway or anything. It could just be so much better than it is.

[Mia Cavaco · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tia Didmon's action-packed series continues - great story development for Raven and Rene as their connection and romance evolve - and, the rest of the characters emerge with their own back stories. Raven continues to adjust to her new situation, and she encounters more surprises, heartache, and revelations regarding the Blood Witch. Rene, too, is evolving and learning to "live" and express his feelings towards Raven, Cass and the other shifters around him. More details emerge regarding all of these individuals, some through very action-packed scenes, and I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the series... can't wait!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

Raven’s journey continues, as she and Rene try to figure out why she is being attacked, and Raven tries to get used to her new undead life.

This is not a standalone, as it continues the story begun in book one, and it ends on a small book-hook. Pretty much everything is up in the air as everyone tries to figure out why Raven is so different. There are a number of questions that have popped up, few of them have been answered, but most are really relevant to the overarching background story and are being doled out slowly.
The romance is still slow burn, and we don’t meet any new characters, even as we do see some suspicious activity from some we’ve already met.
It makes for a quick, and engaging read, and a perfect relaxing activity for the PWF and UF fans out there.

[Gleeful Goblin Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gleeful Goblin Review: I'm thrilled with this second installment of this series. Following a mature heroine who is figuring out her new life, new powers, and old friends is a fascinating journey. I love urban fantasy with mystery/thriller undertones and this series is doing an amazing job of blending those genres for me. I've loved each new installment, especially this one where new friendships are deepened, especially between Kassarra and Raven which is such a highlight for me. Lots of fun, can't wait for the next story. 5/5 Stars.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Next in the series for our 40-yr-old vampire witch who starts getting tangled up in politics she really doesn't want to be. There's also a prophecy they are trying to learn more about, and something simmers between our FMC and Rene.

Another good book, but felt short because not a lot of time passed in-world. It's a little irritating how the FMC doesn't take her situation that seriously, wanting to keep visiting her mortal family who will only be endangered by her. But the heart wants what the heart wants, unless it's a Vampire and suddenly she has will power.

Still an entertaining read, and I plan to knock out another one soon.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its seems as though every turn Raven makes it seem like everyone is out to kill her. Rene has her guarded all the time and she's wants to rebel as she doesn't understand the vampires rules. She had her magic come to life more than she ever had and has much needed time with Irsa and Janna. But only a few minutes before Rene is there to pick her up. Back to the mansion she goes. This is a really good second book and I can't for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It starts from the last book and ends with another attempt to kill Raven. Rene makes Raven very upset in this book and she is being obtuse when it comes to his feelings for her, she just doesn’t want to know. I have two favorite characters, Isra and Cassara. He is so funny and caring and Cassara is such a badass. This was a very good read that I would recommend reading but I would recommend reading it in order.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sara Sigler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raven and Rene the overseer are looking for the scroll that told about her and the prophecy then she was asked to go to the store to meet her partner. When she got there her partner took off and two men came in to keep her in the store then a witch came in to kill her. Her mentor couldn’t see what was happening until she threw one of the men through the window. She fought the witch with her magic she had kept the witch left before Rene got there.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tyrene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story and series! Raven is still adjusting to life as a vampire. Raven and Cassara are getting along like two peas in a pod. Rene is a different story, the tension builds and comes to a head. Things are changing, but her sharp tongue is getting bolder. The way she handled Dimitri was legendary!! This series is getting better with every word. Tia is an outstanding author I highly recommend! Looking forward to see where the story goes!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part human. Part witch. Totally dead’

This second book is just so good! A witch turned vampire who is wanted dead by the supernatural community except the vampire overseer who doesn’t! Raven and Rene‘s story continues and their relationship develops more as they each have to face their demons and feelings for each other. It’s a fantastic read, captivating, enthralling and held me hostage from start to finish. Twists and turns and a few more surprises are thrown our way, there’s action, adventure, mystery and intrigue as we delve deeper into this incredible world.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story! I love book 1, and was excited to get started on book 2, and it did not disappoint.
The author does a great job and before you know it, you’re drawn in. The story is well written. The characters are relatable, and distinct. I found the story to be light with an underlying snarky humor, loved it. The narration was excellent. I will be looking for more works by this author! I am looking forward to book 3. I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Sue MacKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's already dead yet there's others out there still trying to kill her.
Her overseer is giving her mixed messages and she's making that worse, or is it better.
She's fighting to acclimatise to her new (life?) while figuring out if she's going to have a future.
Enough curious twists to keep me asking for more please.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sue L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven is a new witch/vampire, witches hate and fear her, not all vampires except her. Cassara is vampire helping Raven through her transition. Rene Overseer of Shadow Bone Clan is very powerful a two thousand years old vampire and will protect Raven. Heaven help anyone who threatens Raven or his people. Raven maybe the Blood Witch of prophecy. Spellbinding, amazing and beautiful reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

love this series

I really enjoy reading this author and this series is really catching my attention. I love watching the attraction bloom between the two main characters! The fact that she is a witch and a vampire is unique. She is oblivious to Rene’s attraction to her, so it’s funny to read that he growls when another man shows attention. Can’t wait to fond out who is trying to assassinate her and get rid of vampires

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven is still trying to get the hang of her situation as a Witch/Vampire and that she doesn't know that Rene likes her even though he growls when other men come near Raven, it is so fun to read but you feel as if your there the way the author writes the book. Cassara is my favorite Vampire because she is a no nonsense vampire and takes no guff from anyone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really become a huge fan of Tia Didmon. I am reading this series and it absolutely blows me away and I am also reading another of her series, Midlife demons and Demigods. I absolutely cannot choose which I like better so I don't choose and I get to love them both! This continuation is drawing me in like a bee to a flower, I just can't resist it. I am so ready for book 3! Thanks for another great book, Tia. I love spending time in your stories.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven continues to adjust to her new life, but it’s not easy when people keep trying to kill her. Every day seems to bring a new revelation and new questions about her destiny. Not to mention how confusing the vampires leader’s attitude towards her is. I whipped through this book even faster than the first and recommend it to anyone who enjoys paranormal fiction.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.