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Midlife Recorder #4
Seeing Red in Gretna Green
Have you ever agreed to something and, when the time came, wondered what planet your mouth had been on when it accepted the invitation?
Welcome to my freaking world.
A warning from a Fae seer didn’t help Tilly and me get into the right mood for our break in Prince Dai ap Modron’s ‘lovely mountain home’ for the St. David’s Day festival.
What was supposed to be a well-earned holiday quickly turned into a nightmare.
Did I mention the unbelievable cold? The snowstorm? The complete absence of drinkable coffee?
As if that wasn’t enough, King Troels of the Vikings launched a surprise attack on the Gateway, leaving us scrambling to fend off the invaders. But then the power took a liking to Prince Rollo … nope, enough. No spoilers!
You just need to read the book.
“The best new series I’ve read this year.” Facebook Reviewer.
Revisit the bizarre mix of Celtic realms trapped in history when Niki—with the help of her sentient house, Dola—discovers not everyone can be trusted. Join all your favourite characters as they reunite in the Red Celt realm for a gruesome and hilarious sentencing hearing. And Niki learns more about dragon politics than she ever wanted to know.
Seeing Red introduces new faces while rekindling the magic and humour with old favourites. This cosy contemporary fantasy novel will keep you enthralled, laughing, and craving doughnuts from beginning to end.
Don’t miss out on this fun new adventure with the Midlife Recorder – grab your copy today!
Welcome to my freaking world.
A warning from a Fae seer didn’t help Tilly and me get into the right mood for our break in Prince Dai ap Modron’s ‘lovely mountain home’ for the St. David’s Day festival.
What was supposed to be a well-earned holiday quickly turned into a nightmare.
Did I mention the unbelievable cold? The snowstorm? The complete absence of drinkable coffee?
As if that wasn’t enough, King Troels of the Vikings launched a surprise attack on the Gateway, leaving us scrambling to fend off the invaders. But then the power took a liking to Prince Rollo … nope, enough. No spoilers!
You just need to read the book.
“The best new series I’ve read this year.” Facebook Reviewer.
Revisit the bizarre mix of Celtic realms trapped in history when Niki—with the help of her sentient house, Dola—discovers not everyone can be trusted. Join all your favourite characters as they reunite in the Red Celt realm for a gruesome and hilarious sentencing hearing. And Niki learns more about dragon politics than she ever wanted to know.
Seeing Red introduces new faces while rekindling the magic and humour with old favourites. This cosy contemporary fantasy novel will keep you enthralled, laughing, and craving doughnuts from beginning to end.
Don’t miss out on this fun new adventure with the Midlife Recorder – grab your copy today!
632 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 370 reviews
August 6, 2024
Well, it isn't going to be a lovely, detailed review, but I'm just going to say this because frankly, I don't even want to stop reading long enough for a real review: when I finished this book a few minutes ago, I immediately went to Amazon and purchased the series outright. I had been reading it using my KU membership, but I love it so utterly that it must be mine now.
This makes it one of only 4 series that I've purchased outright from Kindle Unlimited, because they were firm favorites that I knew I'd read again and again and my possessive heart requires that I own the precious so it can be mine forever. That list is: this series, the Magical Midlife series by K. F. Breene, the Jacky Leon series by Kristen Banet, and the Firebird Chronicles series by T. A. White.
I love these books. Like, I stayed up until nearly 4am last night because I couldn't put them down, levels of love. So if you and I have similar tastes, give them a whirl.
This makes it one of only 4 series that I've purchased outright from Kindle Unlimited, because they were firm favorites that I knew I'd read again and again and my possessive heart requires that I own the precious so it can be mine forever. That list is: this series, the Magical Midlife series by K. F. Breene, the Jacky Leon series by Kristen Banet, and the Firebird Chronicles series by T. A. White.
I love these books. Like, I stayed up until nearly 4am last night because I couldn't put them down, levels of love. So if you and I have similar tastes, give them a whirl.
August 26, 2024
If someone has read this far into the Midlife Recorder series, they already know what they are getting - a delightfully lovely, warm and addicting story that just wraps you up and makes you want to stay!
This specific book, however, is in my opinion, the very best so far. Niki is finally coming into her own and has gained the confidence that she has struggled with in previous books. We’ve loved seeing her grow but are ready to get things going a bit. And they sure do! Multiple plot-lines take off and we are able to see some real progress, action and excitement… along with some yummy personal love interest stuff, as well! Absolute perfection for those who love this series and the characters who inhabit it!
This specific book, however, is in my opinion, the very best so far. Niki is finally coming into her own and has gained the confidence that she has struggled with in previous books. We’ve loved seeing her grow but are ready to get things going a bit. And they sure do! Multiple plot-lines take off and we are able to see some real progress, action and excitement… along with some yummy personal love interest stuff, as well! Absolute perfection for those who love this series and the characters who inhabit it!
October 1, 2023
Another amazing book!!
Linzi Day has become one of my favorite authors with this outstanding series. Each time a new book comes out I gobble it up and then have to wait for the next one with bated breath. I sat and read this the first day it was released. I couldn't put it down!
Linzi Day has become one of my favorite authors with this outstanding series. Each time a new book comes out I gobble it up and then have to wait for the next one with bated breath. I sat and read this the first day it was released. I couldn't put it down!
September 30, 2023
Seeing red, seeing 5 stars! ✨ Love it 🤩
Firstly . . . Yes, yes, yes! Something I’ve been hoping for/wanting to happen since the first (? Might be second) book happens! And in an even more natural and beautiful way than I’d hoped for *sighs dreamily 🥰
What was I going to say? Got lost in my happy thoughts there for a minute . . .
Oh yes, and secondly, I love how most of the time I still don’t have a scooby of where things are going - just like Niki! 😆 I’m so enjoying discovering more about the realms and her Recorder role along with her. This instalment has even more mysteries, twists and turns than the previous books, which is saying something 😳 and quite a few things definitely don’t go as expected. Tho that seems to be par for the course in the life of a Recorder 🤷🏼♀️ Also highlighted are the complexities of ‘human’ character and psyche and the far reaching consequences of misguided decisions - doing the wrong thing for the right reasons - yes Boney, I’m looking at you! 👀
But oh, that cliffhanger ending! 😱 argh, idk about travelling back in time, like Niki, I’m wishing I could travel forward in time to release day for Code Yellow! 📖🏃🏼♀️
Do yourself a favour and, if you haven’t already, start this fabulous series from the beginning 😁 love it 💖
Firstly . . . Yes, yes, yes! Something I’ve been hoping for/wanting to happen since the first (? Might be second) book happens! And in an even more natural and beautiful way than I’d hoped for *sighs dreamily 🥰
What was I going to say? Got lost in my happy thoughts there for a minute . . .
Oh yes, and secondly, I love how most of the time I still don’t have a scooby of where things are going - just like Niki! 😆 I’m so enjoying discovering more about the realms and her Recorder role along with her. This instalment has even more mysteries, twists and turns than the previous books, which is saying something 😳 and quite a few things definitely don’t go as expected. Tho that seems to be par for the course in the life of a Recorder 🤷🏼♀️ Also highlighted are the complexities of ‘human’ character and psyche and the far reaching consequences of misguided decisions - doing the wrong thing for the right reasons - yes Boney, I’m looking at you! 👀
But oh, that cliffhanger ending! 😱 argh, idk about travelling back in time, like Niki, I’m wishing I could travel forward in time to release day for Code Yellow! 📖🏃🏼♀️
Do yourself a favour and, if you haven’t already, start this fabulous series from the beginning 😁 love it 💖
July 23, 2024
Compared to the prior books in this series, the mood is darker in this novel, and the plot more convoluted. No fluff at all. Instead of a lighthearted adventure, which was a stamp of these tales until now, the gloomy, toxic motifs are emerging. I'm not sure I like the new direction. Why is it that almost every fantasy adventure series I have tried so far is always getting darker as it progresses? I have stopped reading quite a number of them because of this trend. I would hate to stop reading this one.
January 13, 2024
The chaos remains partial, Nikki still often feels that she is missing something and some situations are exaggerated. In this volume, Nikki is not over 40 and jaded, but suddenly a young woman. This is partly logical, but also too sudden (and I do dislike little dogs that dance on their hindfeet and roll through shit). Therefore 3 stars.
But it reads delightfully and the story is good.
But it reads delightfully and the story is good.
March 18, 2024
Good
WARNING! Cliffhanger! It’s a pretty big one, probably a 4.5/5 on the trauma scale and only alleviated a little by the author’s very nice words at the end! You have been warned!
Life as the Recorder of the Gretna Green Gateway is a busy one for Niki. She’s got a lot of things on her plate, and chief of those is trying to fix some of the mistakes her grandmother made.
Meanwhile, she’s also noticing some rather odd things, but are they things she can or even should help with?
This is a pretty hefty book (over 600 pages on my e-reader) and poor Niki is pretty much going constantly the entire time. She deals with some really big things during it too, and we finally even get to see her have some fun!
There are secrets revealed, promises made, and Niki trying desperately to fix the mistakes of her ancestors and their dishonest aides. It’s engrossing reading, but exhausting just thinking about it. Niki is coming into her own in her second chance of life, moving onwards and upwards, and taking charge of her own power.
It’s a fantastic read, and one I think PWF lovers will enjoy; it’s definitely not a standalone, go ahead and read the other books in the series, they’re just as enjoyable, then come back and read this one- it’s worth it!
WARNING! Cliffhanger! It’s a pretty big one, probably a 4.5/5 on the trauma scale and only alleviated a little by the author’s very nice words at the end! You have been warned!
Life as the Recorder of the Gretna Green Gateway is a busy one for Niki. She’s got a lot of things on her plate, and chief of those is trying to fix some of the mistakes her grandmother made.
Meanwhile, she’s also noticing some rather odd things, but are they things she can or even should help with?
This is a pretty hefty book (over 600 pages on my e-reader) and poor Niki is pretty much going constantly the entire time. She deals with some really big things during it too, and we finally even get to see her have some fun!
There are secrets revealed, promises made, and Niki trying desperately to fix the mistakes of her ancestors and their dishonest aides. It’s engrossing reading, but exhausting just thinking about it. Niki is coming into her own in her second chance of life, moving onwards and upwards, and taking charge of her own power.
It’s a fantastic read, and one I think PWF lovers will enjoy; it’s definitely not a standalone, go ahead and read the other books in the series, they’re just as enjoyable, then come back and read this one- it’s worth it!
March 8, 2025
Lots of action and story arc movement in this book
Lots of things happening here. More background on history of the realms, we learn about dragons, Power needs to shift, and important decisions for the future of the red and yellow realms needs to be made.
So many lessons learned in this book. Niki finally wakes up to some things but continues to be annoyingly dense about others. She channels one of her ancestors, might have made a new ally, and gets some perspective on her relationships with men. There are a couple of very tense scenes that show us some character development in Niki. This one ends on quite a cliffhanger so I’ll be diving into book five immediately. I’m very glad I don’t have to wait as those who read them when they were published would have had to. I’d have been TICKED!
Lots of things happening here. More background on history of the realms, we learn about dragons, Power needs to shift, and important decisions for the future of the red and yellow realms needs to be made.
So many lessons learned in this book. Niki finally wakes up to some things but continues to be annoyingly dense about others. She channels one of her ancestors, might have made a new ally, and gets some perspective on her relationships with men. There are a couple of very tense scenes that show us some character development in Niki. This one ends on quite a cliffhanger so I’ll be diving into book five immediately. I’m very glad I don’t have to wait as those who read them when they were published would have had to. I’d have been TICKED!
October 2, 2023
Couldn't put it down. WHAT THE yellows and reds? A must read series!
So this series has me on edge. In the best possible way. I do not give spoilers. I do laugh, I wonder, I think I have things worked out, so I hope, and then I realize I have no bloody clue what I was thinking, nor why I even had that hope. It turned out so much better (and hotter) than my mind had plotted out. Linzi makes it all make sense with her world and character building. I honestly didn't see this coming. Like at all. This book ends with a cliffhanger, but Linzi doesn't leave us hanging for long. There is good reason for it. TIP: If you're American without a strong European background, the phrases and wyrd words might throw you a bit. The same applies with lore. Google. It helps. And if you find yourself lost and don't know what a character is on about/speaking about, stay with it, trust me, it becomes very clear what was meant. In ways you couldn't imagine. Such a tremendous, unique, well planned, and thought-out series! Bravo
So this series has me on edge. In the best possible way. I do not give spoilers. I do laugh, I wonder, I think I have things worked out, so I hope, and then I realize I have no bloody clue what I was thinking, nor why I even had that hope. It turned out so much better (and hotter) than my mind had plotted out. Linzi makes it all make sense with her world and character building. I honestly didn't see this coming. Like at all. This book ends with a cliffhanger, but Linzi doesn't leave us hanging for long. There is good reason for it. TIP: If you're American without a strong European background, the phrases and wyrd words might throw you a bit. The same applies with lore. Google. It helps. And if you find yourself lost and don't know what a character is on about/speaking about, stay with it, trust me, it becomes very clear what was meant. In ways you couldn't imagine. Such a tremendous, unique, well planned, and thought-out series! Bravo
October 6, 2023
Where in the world does she find these words?
An excellent series with each book more riveting than the last. The worlds portrayed had my imagination soaring with protagonist and I don't like heights either. The characters are marvelous and some are deserving of their ends, some of which are not for the squeamish. There's dime nice eye candy and the foods sound divinr. The animals are apart of the stories with their own parts too. HRH continues to be my favorite character, I won't include her as an animal because she may be a deity. And the author is correct. I temporarily hate her, at least until the next book comes out. My finger are tired from holding on to edge of the cliff, and it's really a tall one with jagged rocks below.
Like
Like:1
An excellent series with each book more riveting than the last. The worlds portrayed had my imagination soaring with protagonist and I don't like heights either. The characters are marvelous and some are deserving of their ends, some of which are not for the squeamish. There's dime nice eye candy and the foods sound divinr. The animals are apart of the stories with their own parts too. HRH continues to be my favorite character, I won't include her as an animal because she may be a deity. And the author is correct. I temporarily hate her, at least until the next book comes out. My finger are tired from holding on to edge of the cliff, and it's really a tall one with jagged rocks below.
Like
Like:1
October 1, 2023
Really Good
I love this series. Niki is an over 40 woman who has suddenly (in book 1) become the Recorder for a portal that leads from Scotland to 6 realms. Her function as Recorder is to protect the portal and monitor the flow of people through the realms. This also means stopping anything or anyone that endangers the realms or portal. So she gets into some interesting and dangerous situations. Each book title is color coordinated to one of the portals, so book 4 is about the Red Celt realm, which is the dragon kingdom. The story starts off about a man, but ends up being about a kingdom. I love these books, there are multiple plotlines so something interesting is always happening. The plotlines wrapped up nicely but the teaser about the next book! Not nice! Write faster!
I love this series. Niki is an over 40 woman who has suddenly (in book 1) become the Recorder for a portal that leads from Scotland to 6 realms. Her function as Recorder is to protect the portal and monitor the flow of people through the realms. This also means stopping anything or anyone that endangers the realms or portal. So she gets into some interesting and dangerous situations. Each book title is color coordinated to one of the portals, so book 4 is about the Red Celt realm, which is the dragon kingdom. The story starts off about a man, but ends up being about a kingdom. I love these books, there are multiple plotlines so something interesting is always happening. The plotlines wrapped up nicely but the teaser about the next book! Not nice! Write faster!
January 16, 2025
brilliant
Again loved this book number four can’t wait to get stuck into five. Keeps you on your seat all the way through. Many a late night early morning read as couldn’t put down.
Again loved this book number four can’t wait to get stuck into five. Keeps you on your seat all the way through. Many a late night early morning read as couldn’t put down.
September 30, 2023
Another brilliant book
You did it again, I could not wait for a release day, and unfortunately, I read it way too quickly.
I love that you turned everything around, did not see that coming - I don't want to spoil it for others but very good plot twist. It's great that it does not feel forced but came about quite naturally. I am also glad Nicky finally got some action and not too cray cray for her va-jay jay, brilliant. Can't wait for another one, especially after the cliffhanger!
You did it again, I could not wait for a release day, and unfortunately, I read it way too quickly.
I love that you turned everything around, did not see that coming - I don't want to spoil it for others but very good plot twist. It's great that it does not feel forced but came about quite naturally. I am also glad Nicky finally got some action and not too cray cray for her va-jay jay, brilliant. Can't wait for another one, especially after the cliffhanger!
October 6, 2024
This review is a little different since I have THOUGHTS (below). 4.5 stars, it's really a lovely story once we get past the confusion, lack of information and general lack of confidence that plagues Niki in the previous books. Niki is really coming into her own!
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Highlights & Spoilers:
Rollo. Yes this is what maturity looks like:
“Look at us. We were born on the same day. After sharing this connection with you for the last few days, I’ve learnt, in many ways, we’ve dealt with the world similarly. Let’s see if we can take the armour off, let the shields down and see who we really are, shall we?”
It was such an astonishing request."
And that whole mirror refection thing was sweet and hot.
Interesting quote:
“Give me a child until they are seven, and I will show you the adult."
AWWWW, Rollo:
Rollo sent me a warm mental hug. "I’ve decided, Boo. I’m simply waiting for you to catch up."
Why this, over and over, he can hear her but she can't hear him?? Hate the disparity.
"Still doing it, Boo."
1) OMG Rollo
- the mind link thing, why wide open only 1 way from Niki to Rollo? It seems like he gets a front row to her thoughts and she only gets his if he projects? Pushes thoughts her way? Not fair I think...
-OMG love him
-OMG love the descriptions scattered throughout so we get fresh glimpses into how he looks.
2) I hate how this is dragging out about Dai, and its just so weird?
3) So glad for Rhi-Rhi, getting the power and can save the baby dragons/babies. And now a gateway? Love the friendship developing.
4) Damn Mabon and Dai for all the needless suffering for years and years to their people
5) Sometimes its a little "too" cute, with all the sweatshirts and cups and their sayings sprinkled in.
6) What is all this about Indigo, and weird way dragons reproduce (without sex sometimes?)
I like where Niki is heading :), "rabbiting" LOL
"She was Rollo’s godmother? “But what the hell does it have to do with Jamie? And why were you rabbiting on about central heating for a community hall? Why didn’t you just tell me?”"
-
-
-
Highlights & Spoilers:
Rollo. Yes this is what maturity looks like:
“Look at us. We were born on the same day. After sharing this connection with you for the last few days, I’ve learnt, in many ways, we’ve dealt with the world similarly. Let’s see if we can take the armour off, let the shields down and see who we really are, shall we?”
It was such an astonishing request."
And that whole mirror refection thing was sweet and hot.
Interesting quote:
“Give me a child until they are seven, and I will show you the adult."
AWWWW, Rollo:
Rollo sent me a warm mental hug. "I’ve decided, Boo. I’m simply waiting for you to catch up."
Why this, over and over, he can hear her but she can't hear him?? Hate the disparity.
"Still doing it, Boo."
1) OMG Rollo
- the mind link thing, why wide open only 1 way from Niki to Rollo? It seems like he gets a front row to her thoughts and she only gets his if he projects? Pushes thoughts her way? Not fair I think...
-OMG love him
-OMG love the descriptions scattered throughout so we get fresh glimpses into how he looks.
2) I hate how this is dragging out about Dai, and its just so weird?
3) So glad for Rhi-Rhi, getting the power and can save the baby dragons/babies. And now a gateway? Love the friendship developing.
4) Damn Mabon and Dai for all the needless suffering for years and years to their people
5) Sometimes its a little "too" cute, with all the sweatshirts and cups and their sayings sprinkled in.
6) What is all this about Indigo, and weird way dragons reproduce (without sex sometimes?)
I like where Niki is heading :), "rabbiting" LOL
"She was Rollo’s godmother? “But what the hell does it have to do with Jamie? And why were you rabbiting on about central heating for a community hall? Why didn’t you just tell me?”"
February 11, 2024
This one is a bit of a cluster f*ck. It felt 1/3 info dump, 1/3 "woops, I decided that this guy was gonna be this instead of this and now I have to info dump more to justify it", and 1/3 actual forward plot - all which is presented in a slightly scatter-brained and chaotic manner. It makes for a lot of "Wait, What?" moments.
(Also... irony, at least for me, since my opinions on Frozen - which is referenced regularly through out - could also be described that way xD )
Not bad necessarily, but considering it is over 600 pages... well. There's a lot of room for scatter-brained chaos.
On the plus side, I am very much in favor of all the computer geekery to be had. Linzi Day is definitely an author after my own heart.
(Also... irony, at least for me, since my opinions on Frozen - which is referenced regularly through out - could also be described that way xD )
Not bad necessarily, but considering it is over 600 pages... well. There's a lot of room for scatter-brained chaos.
On the plus side, I am very much in favor of all the computer geekery to be had. Linzi Day is definitely an author after my own heart.
October 26, 2023
Wow! What an exciting addition to this series. Definitely some shockers in this one. Fans of the series should really like this. Don’t start with this book, as the storyline mostly continues throughout the series. Can’t wait to see what happens next for Niki and the whole gang.
Oct 2023: Just as excellent the second time reading it. Very excited for Code Yellow.
Oct 2023: Just as excellent the second time reading it. Very excited for Code Yellow.
September 29, 2023
write a complete story line cliffhangers suck
I detest the cliffhanger ending. I’m not sure if I will read the next one.I’m not fond of waiting a year just to have a plot point finished. I have stopped reading authors because of this before. Now as an author you want reviews - hope this one helps
I detest the cliffhanger ending. I’m not sure if I will read the next one.I’m not fond of waiting a year just to have a plot point finished. I have stopped reading authors because of this before. Now as an author you want reviews - hope this one helps
October 3, 2023
Extended the Story but Jumpy
I have enjoyed every proceeding Linzi Day book, but this one got tedious. It seemed to jump from storyline to storyline, with little regard for continuity. I was supposed to remember details from 3 previous books that I only read one time a year ago? Following the plot lines in this story was often a struggle, but I still enjoyed the characters.
I have enjoyed every proceeding Linzi Day book, but this one got tedious. It seemed to jump from storyline to storyline, with little regard for continuity. I was supposed to remember details from 3 previous books that I only read one time a year ago? Following the plot lines in this story was often a struggle, but I still enjoyed the characters.
May 9, 2026
"Real" Fantasy
I don't know how this series found me, but it's enthralling. I need a hob (read to book) because I'm too busy living in Gretna Green to do housework. Linzi makes the people real, only the setting is imaginary.
I don't know how this series found me, but it's enthralling. I need a hob (read to book) because I'm too busy living in Gretna Green to do housework. Linzi makes the people real, only the setting is imaginary.
January 26, 2026
Rating: 5⭐️
“Allow the fire that drives you to burn brighter than any flames around you. Many fear getting their wings for the first time. But consider the butterfly. If it had remained a caterpillar, would it not grieve when all its peers flew away, so free and elegant? The struggle is brief, but your rewards are infinite. “
-Finding your Inner Fire: How to Claim your True Self by Peggy Hwybon (Warmly recommended by His Majesty Mabon ap Modron)
I’ve been remiss in forgetting to include memorable passages from the all important “texts” that drive each new book and characters as they journey into new areas of growth, revelation, and new relationships.
Seeing Red , naturally we’re diving into the Red Celt realm and dragons, is such an important and compelling story.
It starts off with Niki going to visit Dai, Prince Dafydd ap Modron, heir to Mabon, the king of the Red Celts, a man who was once her childhood friend.
I won’t say anything more. Only that the events of this story have ramifications for the rest of the series and the characters. Ones that continue to play out.
Day’s plots are labyrinthine. They hold the keys to the fabric of each character’s lives and personalities, their back histories and the damage that’s been inflicted on them. And how all of that has come together to create the situation and events that are in place now.
It’s an ever changing narrative masterpiece, subtly designed, beautifully crafted, heartfelt and deeply emotional.
And we’re engaged with every single character as they are hurt, involved in the process of growing into their own power, and potentially something stronger.
I want to spoil this so badly. But I’ll leave you with the pleasure of reading it and then wanting to reread this book again.
Highly recommended.
Gorgeous Covers that absolutely drew me in. With the ever changing Recorder Star and Gateway in the center that’s pertinent to each book
Cover Design: Axe Designs
Midlife Recorder series:
Midlife in Gretna Green #1
Painting the Blues in Gretna Green #2
Ties That Bond in Gretna Green #3
House Party in Gretna Green #3.5
Seeing Red in Gretna Green #4
Code Yellow in Gretna Green #5
Market Forces in Gretna Green #6
Coming next
Spilling The Tea in Gretna Green #7
Half An Orange in Gretna Greene #8-Oct 30,2026
“Allow the fire that drives you to burn brighter than any flames around you. Many fear getting their wings for the first time. But consider the butterfly. If it had remained a caterpillar, would it not grieve when all its peers flew away, so free and elegant? The struggle is brief, but your rewards are infinite. “
-Finding your Inner Fire: How to Claim your True Self by Peggy Hwybon (Warmly recommended by His Majesty Mabon ap Modron)
I’ve been remiss in forgetting to include memorable passages from the all important “texts” that drive each new book and characters as they journey into new areas of growth, revelation, and new relationships.
Seeing Red , naturally we’re diving into the Red Celt realm and dragons, is such an important and compelling story.
It starts off with Niki going to visit Dai, Prince Dafydd ap Modron, heir to Mabon, the king of the Red Celts, a man who was once her childhood friend.
I won’t say anything more. Only that the events of this story have ramifications for the rest of the series and the characters. Ones that continue to play out.
Day’s plots are labyrinthine. They hold the keys to the fabric of each character’s lives and personalities, their back histories and the damage that’s been inflicted on them. And how all of that has come together to create the situation and events that are in place now.
It’s an ever changing narrative masterpiece, subtly designed, beautifully crafted, heartfelt and deeply emotional.
And we’re engaged with every single character as they are hurt, involved in the process of growing into their own power, and potentially something stronger.
I want to spoil this so badly. But I’ll leave you with the pleasure of reading it and then wanting to reread this book again.
Highly recommended.
Gorgeous Covers that absolutely drew me in. With the ever changing Recorder Star and Gateway in the center that’s pertinent to each book
Cover Design: Axe Designs
Midlife Recorder series:
Midlife in Gretna Green #1
Painting the Blues in Gretna Green #2
Ties That Bond in Gretna Green #3
House Party in Gretna Green #3.5
Seeing Red in Gretna Green #4
Code Yellow in Gretna Green #5
Market Forces in Gretna Green #6
Coming next
Spilling The Tea in Gretna Green #7
Half An Orange in Gretna Greene #8-Oct 30,2026
January 15, 2024
Good but half the time I was lost.
This was a good book. I enjoyed reading it. We learned more of the prophecy. (Still no clue what any of it means.) discovered another gateway. And made a few new friends.
Dai… well. I still don’t know what to think about him. Had a bit of a nervous breakdown it seems. But he also seems super condescending. So I’m interested to discover if that’s truly part of his character, or his illness. And who is his dad?! And where does the indigo power come from?! Since it’s not their gateway’s.
Rollo is great. At first I was team Dai. Then Dai went off the deep end. Rollo came in and picked up the pieces Niki didn’t even know she was missing. They make a great team. And I love their sweet mind link. I want to know what the fuck happened to him and who did it. Can Niki heal him?
However… there were SO many times I felt lost when reading. Someone would say something and I had NO CLUE what they were talking about. Other parts simply made no sense and came from left field. I would go back to re-read to see if I missed anything, but no. It just jumped around a lot. Particularly whenever Niki was interacting directly with the Power. I was able to sort of follow along, but it was confusing.
Overall it was a very fun read and I can’t wait until the next book comes out! I hope we discover more gateways! And I’m ready for Niki to finally do something about Viking and Troells. I have a feeling she’s going to go scorched earth on his ass. As she should.
This was a good book. I enjoyed reading it. We learned more of the prophecy. (Still no clue what any of it means.) discovered another gateway. And made a few new friends.
Dai… well. I still don’t know what to think about him. Had a bit of a nervous breakdown it seems. But he also seems super condescending. So I’m interested to discover if that’s truly part of his character, or his illness. And who is his dad?! And where does the indigo power come from?! Since it’s not their gateway’s.
Rollo is great. At first I was team Dai. Then Dai went off the deep end. Rollo came in and picked up the pieces Niki didn’t even know she was missing. They make a great team. And I love their sweet mind link. I want to know what the fuck happened to him and who did it. Can Niki heal him?
However… there were SO many times I felt lost when reading. Someone would say something and I had NO CLUE what they were talking about. Other parts simply made no sense and came from left field. I would go back to re-read to see if I missed anything, but no. It just jumped around a lot. Particularly whenever Niki was interacting directly with the Power. I was able to sort of follow along, but it was confusing.
Overall it was a very fun read and I can’t wait until the next book comes out! I hope we discover more gateways! And I’m ready for Niki to finally do something about Viking and Troells. I have a feeling she’s going to go scorched earth on his ass. As she should.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
I have to admit, I was ready to sit back and have Dai be able to explain everything in his house because somehow his house would get enable him to work around whatever was binding his ability; however, throw your hopes for that storyline out the window, because Dai isn't doing what you thought he was doing. That story goes elsewhere, and so does Niki.
She winds up learning more about the culture and systems in place in the red realm, and in the process she realizes that she's still being pulled along by other people's expectations of what generations of much weaker recorders were able to do.
Troels also decides to attack the gates, and the crisis in the Viking realm moves into the "deal with this concurrently" category - the book ends on a cliffhanger, and Linzi lets Niki have some goodness and light come into her life from a less expected source. Prepare to zip straight into the next book right after this!
This book is definitely for those who've been reading since book 1, and if Niki and her world (cool mid-40's woman changing direction in a modern paranormal fantasy world) sound appealing or if it's been awhile since you read the previous book, you'll enjoy this book more with a mental refresh of the series. This book is a bit darker, but quite frankly some of the issues the realms have been willfully ignoring are dark and will take some unpopular and difficult work to make right.
She winds up learning more about the culture and systems in place in the red realm, and in the process she realizes that she's still being pulled along by other people's expectations of what generations of much weaker recorders were able to do.
Troels also decides to attack the gates, and the crisis in the Viking realm moves into the "deal with this concurrently" category - the book ends on a cliffhanger, and Linzi lets Niki have some goodness and light come into her life from a less expected source. Prepare to zip straight into the next book right after this!
This book is definitely for those who've been reading since book 1, and if Niki and her world (cool mid-40's woman changing direction in a modern paranormal fantasy world) sound appealing or if it's been awhile since you read the previous book, you'll enjoy this book more with a mental refresh of the series. This book is a bit darker, but quite frankly some of the issues the realms have been willfully ignoring are dark and will take some unpopular and difficult work to make right.
March 7, 2026
Can’t Put Them Down
I started reading this series by Linzi Day a few days ago and haven’t been able to put them down. I read a lot of fantasy and this is such a great twist on a coming of age novel. It contains so many fantasy races such as fae, dragons, unicorns, magic and prescience but the use of these make it anything but typical.
Niki’s growth as a middle aged woman who’s been abused as a child and adult and her transformation into a woman who recognizes and uses her intelligence and power really speaks to me. She’s able to acknowledge her faults and overcome them. She somewhat falls into the people pleasing and nurturing role that’s common for abused women. The difference is that she’s also learned that if she offers that to others both in her job and personal life, she deserves the same consideration from those she helps. While it is a fantasy novel, there’s a lot of things people can learn to apply in reality.
Day is one of those authors whose writing gives both character and plot development delightfully. I’m grateful I am reading this several years after she started the series because it means I don’t have to wait for the next book. At least not yet.
I started reading this series by Linzi Day a few days ago and haven’t been able to put them down. I read a lot of fantasy and this is such a great twist on a coming of age novel. It contains so many fantasy races such as fae, dragons, unicorns, magic and prescience but the use of these make it anything but typical.
Niki’s growth as a middle aged woman who’s been abused as a child and adult and her transformation into a woman who recognizes and uses her intelligence and power really speaks to me. She’s able to acknowledge her faults and overcome them. She somewhat falls into the people pleasing and nurturing role that’s common for abused women. The difference is that she’s also learned that if she offers that to others both in her job and personal life, she deserves the same consideration from those she helps. While it is a fantasy novel, there’s a lot of things people can learn to apply in reality.
Day is one of those authors whose writing gives both character and plot development delightfully. I’m grateful I am reading this several years after she started the series because it means I don’t have to wait for the next book. At least not yet.
October 24, 2024
Still can't put these down!
Fortunately, I found these books a year or so after Ms. Day began her retirement writing career, so I have been able to read the first four books back-to-back. I don't think I could have been able to stand waiting months for the next one to come out! Believe me, you HAVE to read these books if you have any interest in paranormal anything. These books do NOT fit into the typical 'formula-type' cozy mysteries, romances, or any other of the usual genres, they are absolutely unique and take you on a fascinating journey that is part obscure mythology, tech wizardry, mystery and suspense, intrigue, and psychological suspense, all wrapped up in a woman's coming into her own strength and unique gifts, through some crazy and often almost-unbelievable scenarios. Entertaining as hell, well-written (an absolute must for any serious reader, of course!), and enough plots to satisfy an entire group of diverse readers. All held tightly together in a most satisfying way by this incredible new voice. In the words of the main character, "GO." Order or download these books and enjoy today!
Fortunately, I found these books a year or so after Ms. Day began her retirement writing career, so I have been able to read the first four books back-to-back. I don't think I could have been able to stand waiting months for the next one to come out! Believe me, you HAVE to read these books if you have any interest in paranormal anything. These books do NOT fit into the typical 'formula-type' cozy mysteries, romances, or any other of the usual genres, they are absolutely unique and take you on a fascinating journey that is part obscure mythology, tech wizardry, mystery and suspense, intrigue, and psychological suspense, all wrapped up in a woman's coming into her own strength and unique gifts, through some crazy and often almost-unbelievable scenarios. Entertaining as hell, well-written (an absolute must for any serious reader, of course!), and enough plots to satisfy an entire group of diverse readers. All held tightly together in a most satisfying way by this incredible new voice. In the words of the main character, "GO." Order or download these books and enjoy today!
March 6, 2025
4.25⭐️
This book was about Niki finally being able to see herself and how she has changed. I am glad she had someone from this new life of hers who saw her as that and is building her confidence up. She is also not panicking as much when the unexpected happens. That is not to say she knows everything but she asks when she needs help or more information.
Coming to the worlds/kingdoms, it is a bit confusing about the regnal power in terms of the Red Celts and the dragons, but it was mostly cleared up for me in this book to wards the end. But the issue of the Vikings that has been rearing its ugly head since at least book 2 has finally come to a head at the end of this book and I am so distraught with the cliff hanger at the end. I am jumping straight in to the next book and I hop the last 4 books in this proposed 10 part series comes out soon so I can finally know what the prophecy that everyone is talking about is and what the hell the Indigo door leads to and who and what HRH is.
This book was about Niki finally being able to see herself and how she has changed. I am glad she had someone from this new life of hers who saw her as that and is building her confidence up. She is also not panicking as much when the unexpected happens. That is not to say she knows everything but she asks when she needs help or more information.
Coming to the worlds/kingdoms, it is a bit confusing about the regnal power in terms of the Red Celts and the dragons, but it was mostly cleared up for me in this book to wards the end. But the issue of the Vikings that has been rearing its ugly head since at least book 2 has finally come to a head at the end of this book and I am so distraught with the cliff hanger at the end. I am jumping straight in to the next book and I hop the last 4 books in this proposed 10 part series comes out soon so I can finally know what the prophecy that everyone is talking about is and what the hell the Indigo door leads to and who and what HRH is.
December 17, 2023
Cliffhanger alert!
First, Linzi Day, enormous props for using susurration. A top five favorite word finally in a novel! As a word nerd my wings fluttered with joy.
This series is sublime. Seeing Red abruptly catapults the reader off the cliff screaming for the next installment. I want to be angry about it but can't because the ending is genius. It's 8 am on a Sunday morning yet I'm wishing for a margarita the size of my head just to stop wondering how long I must wait to know. Alas, I am not a day or solitary drinker.
The storyline is impeccably plotted with all the plates spinning. Characters have a depth which continues to develop as you get to know them. Love them or love to hate them.
If you're looking for a paranormal series that isn't a "cozy" you've found it. This one won't disappoint.
First, Linzi Day, enormous props for using susurration. A top five favorite word finally in a novel! As a word nerd my wings fluttered with joy.
This series is sublime. Seeing Red abruptly catapults the reader off the cliff screaming for the next installment. I want to be angry about it but can't because the ending is genius. It's 8 am on a Sunday morning yet I'm wishing for a margarita the size of my head just to stop wondering how long I must wait to know. Alas, I am not a day or solitary drinker.
The storyline is impeccably plotted with all the plates spinning. Characters have a depth which continues to develop as you get to know them. Love them or love to hate them.
If you're looking for a paranormal series that isn't a "cozy" you've found it. This one won't disappoint.
December 31, 2023
Captivating compulsive reading - highly recommended.
After twelve months of reading, waiting, wishing and more reading the first four books plus the side stories I have come to a discovery that rocked me to my core. Is Linzi Day the 21st century answer to the late great Anne McCaffrey, are the escapades of the Gretna Green Gateway a worthy replacement for the world of Pern - in short YES!!! It has been a long time since a book series has restored my love of reading and Linzi Day has done that. Thank you Linzi for providing the escape we need from our troubled lands. Now after finishing book 4 ‘Seeing Red’ I am back to rereading, waiting, wishing before book 5 hopefully in the Summer of 2024.
After twelve months of reading, waiting, wishing and more reading the first four books plus the side stories I have come to a discovery that rocked me to my core. Is Linzi Day the 21st century answer to the late great Anne McCaffrey, are the escapades of the Gretna Green Gateway a worthy replacement for the world of Pern - in short YES!!! It has been a long time since a book series has restored my love of reading and Linzi Day has done that. Thank you Linzi for providing the escape we need from our troubled lands. Now after finishing book 4 ‘Seeing Red’ I am back to rereading, waiting, wishing before book 5 hopefully in the Summer of 2024.
October 6, 2024
Loved the book.
Another great read from Linzi, usually I hate cliff hanger endings, but at least knowing he survives made me forgive that. I am lucky that I didn't have to wait long to find out what happened. I have just read through the whole series again. They still strike a nerve and have awakened a longing for a Vimto. Used to buy a frozen Vimto lolly on Fleetwood prom as a kid. So I'm on the hunt as I haven't had some for years. A bit like Dandelion and Burdock, fizzy pop you used to get when I was young. Wonder if they still make it. I just realised I was in such a rush to read the next book, I never reviewed this one. I recommend this book. Great story with great, enjoyable and believable characters. A joy to read.
Another great read from Linzi, usually I hate cliff hanger endings, but at least knowing he survives made me forgive that. I am lucky that I didn't have to wait long to find out what happened. I have just read through the whole series again. They still strike a nerve and have awakened a longing for a Vimto. Used to buy a frozen Vimto lolly on Fleetwood prom as a kid. So I'm on the hunt as I haven't had some for years. A bit like Dandelion and Burdock, fizzy pop you used to get when I was young. Wonder if they still make it. I just realised I was in such a rush to read the next book, I never reviewed this one. I recommend this book. Great story with great, enjoyable and believable characters. A joy to read.
October 20, 2023
No more 5 stars!
I often give 5 stars out absentl. End of book that was good not great? 5 stars. End of book that was just okay 5 stars. No more of that. I mean it! This book, this series has been an eye opener for me. How you ask well this is how books should be written. Not the change the names, change the local, cookie cutter books many kindle unlimited writers do. Many, many, kindle unlimited writers. This book and the series are so well thought out, so consistent it scary. Funny without being corny. Classy without being boring and stuffy. I cannot wait for the next in this series. Well done.
I often give 5 stars out absentl. End of book that was good not great? 5 stars. End of book that was just okay 5 stars. No more of that. I mean it! This book, this series has been an eye opener for me. How you ask well this is how books should be written. Not the change the names, change the local, cookie cutter books many kindle unlimited writers do. Many, many, kindle unlimited writers. This book and the series are so well thought out, so consistent it scary. Funny without being corny. Classy without being boring and stuffy. I cannot wait for the next in this series. Well done.
October 25, 2023
Great book, crappy ending
This book, like all the others in the series is witty, entertaining, and fun to read. The characters are well written and learning the different lore of other countries has been fascinating.
My only criticism is that the book ends on a cliffhanger, and not in a tidy way. You're just going along, enjoying the story and then wham! The author says, "I hope you enjoyed this book, blah, blah, blah." I don't know if it's the author's fault, or greedy publishers, but it's beyond annoying. I would suggest waiting to read the series until it's all been written, to save yourself the aggravation.
Do read it, though. It's lots of fun.
This book, like all the others in the series is witty, entertaining, and fun to read. The characters are well written and learning the different lore of other countries has been fascinating.
My only criticism is that the book ends on a cliffhanger, and not in a tidy way. You're just going along, enjoying the story and then wham! The author says, "I hope you enjoyed this book, blah, blah, blah." I don't know if it's the author's fault, or greedy publishers, but it's beyond annoying. I would suggest waiting to read the series until it's all been written, to save yourself the aggravation.
Do read it, though. It's lots of fun.
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