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Mystical Midlife in Maine #14

Shady Secrets & Sun Spots

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Well here we go again, folks. Another day, another supernatural crisis to avert. As a middle-aged witch with a knack for trouble, you know I'm not catching any breaks in this enchanted world. Lucky for me I've got my partner in magical crime by my side, and we're ready to tackle whatever the universe throws our way...

When the local sheriff, who just happens to be my best friend Stella's husband, stumbles into my humble abode begging for our expertise, we know we're in for a wild ride. A poor old lady just vanished into thin air with a bunch of mundies for witnesses. The authorities don't know what to make of the reports, but at least Stella's hubby knows all about keeping the mundanes from discovering our magical world. But that means he has to put us on the case.

Off we trot, broomsticks practically itching to take flight, as we embark on a journey that leads us straight into the heart of Salem. Did you really expect this witchy adventure to unfold anywhere else?

As it turns out, this isn't a run-of-the-mill missing person case. Oh, no. We stumble upon a plot so wicked it would make Maleficent blush. A goddess with a vendetta, a sheriff with a secret, and an unexpected threat to my unborn babes are just the beginning. Talk about a party.

Grab your wands and buckle up, because we're about to show the supernatural world why you should never underestimate witches on a mission

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 4, 2024

264 people are currently reading
44 people want to read

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5 stars
241 (67%)
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70 (19%)
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30 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
2,996 reviews43 followers
July 15, 2024
This is book forty three of the Midlife Mysteries & Magic series and the local sheriff has asked Phoebe and Stella if they can help out with the case of an elderly woman Olive who has gone missing from her house in Salem, with all the doors and windows locked, and witnesses saying there were a load of lights which suddenly went out, even though her power was off, and she hasn’t been seen since. Stella’s husband Todd is the sheriff and he knows to pass any cases onto them that might have a supernatural tendency, even though he has no magic himself! They had been having a relaxing time, sharing some magic lessons with their teenage daughters, whilst Nana gives a hand. Phoebe is pregnant with triplets and finding lots of things are a struggle a few months in, but never could have imagined what was about to happen and how it was linked to the love of her life, her fated mate and God of the Underworld, Aidon. Nana worries that they could be walking into another trap set by Lyra, who kidnapped Stella and Phoebe recently, but Aidon is going with them and won’t let them out of his sight. They soon find themselves in the heart of Salem, with so much more than just an old woman to search for. It seems this old woman was a witch and there are powerful symbols written on the floor and Aidon can sense that some powerful magic was done there recently.

A hidden vault brings correspondence that shows Olive was a member of an exclusive cult, the Order of Umbra, and finding this cult leads them to a secret pocket realm, set up and controlled by another demigod. A secret magical society running around under the Pleiades’ nose is not acceptable, especially as Phoebe has no idea of what type of magic they are using. The secret realm leaves them chasing a series of riddles, dark magic and an ancient energy with a heart of malevolence pulling them into a multitude of traps. Someone wants the power Phoebe inherited from Hattie, the former Pleiades, but they also want something much more precious to Phoebe and Aidon. Something they would never give up on! Everything will converge into a battle for their very souls, as their fates are tied to another in a prophecy about the secrets of the gods and a despised enchantress. Looks like the trio have certainly got their hands full and they will need to ask their friends Tseki and Murtagh to step in and lend a hand. They have lots of research to do, to find answers about where to go next and full of riddles and puzzles re the prophecy, but the storyline is almost non-stop action, as they get themselves into loads of trouble seeking answers and have to fight their way out. I loved the extra blast the triplets gave Phoebe, a couple of times, as they fought against those who wanted her dead. Being a witch, then a Pleiades and mated to a god, certainly has its benefits when it comes to the powers their kids will have! A certain goddess of discord had better watch out, as she will find Phoebe and her friends to be much harder to remove that she thought, and they will fight with their lives if necessary, to help protect Phoebe and Aidon’s unborn triplets. A full on adventure with loads of twists and turns, but with age old jealousy and hunger for power at the core of it all!

I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Profile Image for Rebel.
2,654 reviews
June 30, 2024
Shady Secrets & Sun Spots: Paranormal Women's Fiction by Brenda Trim is a captivating and enchanting tale that takes readers on an unforgettable journey of mystery, friendship, and the transformative power of magic. Set in the mystical world of Maine, where supernatural beings coexist with humans, the story introduces readers to a middle-aged witch with a knack for trouble and her trusty sidekick. The novel's beautifully crafted world is a seamless blend of paranormal fiction and romance, with intriguing supernatural elements that add depth and complexity to the narrative. The characters are well-developed and relatable, drawing readers in with their unique personalities and emotional journeys. As the witch and her partner in magical crime embark on a journey to unravel a wicked plot, they must navigate the challenges of their own personal lives and face unexpected threats to their well-being. The story is a testament to the power of friendship and the unbreakable bond between women who have each other's backs through thick and thin. Shady Secrets & Sun Spots: Paranormal Women's Fiction by Brenda Trim is a captivating and enchanting tale that delivers a spellbinding adventure filled with mystery, friendship, and the transformative power of magic. With unforgettable characters and a beautifully crafted world, this book is a must-read for fans of paranormal fiction. Highly recommended!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,497 reviews
June 28, 2024
Phoebe, Stella and family are starting to train up Nina and Charley in magic more often. Todd, Stella’s sheriff husband, tells them that he heard that a witch, named Olive has gone missing in Salem and it’s peculiar to say the least. Things go crazy as Phoebe is preggers with Aidon’s babies. I feel bad that Phoebe and Stella just can’t catch a break, they are always on the run and dealing with tainted witches and bad demigods and more. This time it’s worse. I literally got sick to my stomach with worry over them as I’m engrossed in the different series of this author’s world. I had a funny feeling and realized I knew who was behind it all and I was right. You learn a lot in this book about Aidon’s past and things go absolutely crazy for most of the book. It seems that they are not going to have any peace and quiet for quite some time to come. I was happy to see Tseki and Murtagh as I missed them and I missed Layla in this book. Even at the worst and darkest moments, Stella and Phoebe are hilarious with their snark and dark humor. I can’t wait to see what happens next even tho, I’m worried as I always am about those babies. The series are just too good.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Maralina E Dvorak.
82 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2024
Magical Drama - Unique Skills and Secrets

This is another series I really enjoy and have diligently read from the beginning. If you aren't familiar with this series, highly suggest getting familiar with the origins as the evolution of the characters is awesome. Don't be dissuaded by the descriptions of the midlife challenges as they are necessary to portray what is being endured and how the evolution helped. This story has some fun with other character types like the fae, the "phases" you walk through to experience the secrets of the magic-kind and the weirdly wild environments found. I'm a huge fan of all the characters with a special love for Aiden and Stella primarily because of their evolution and history. Not to discount Phoebe, or any others just those two are extra fascinating. I prefer not to add any spoilers and just share what I personally got from the story(ies). I do enjoy this series and will continue to read as they become available. Oh and Phoebe's pregnancy is...well it's kinda weirdly awesome.
Profile Image for Denise.
3,718 reviews
May 31, 2024
Phoebe, Stella, and Aidon set off to Salem, Massachusetts to try to figure out why a local witch disappeared from her home- right in front of 0eople. Their quest will turn out to be much more than a search for a missing woman as they, along with Tseki and Murtagh, end up on the search for a pocket realm of dark witches led by a goddess who is Aidon's former love interest. Lots of unexpected happenings here, which include Stella's mundie husband, Todd, getting in over his head by trying to help. Phoebe is pregnant with triplets and is worried about their safety, especially when it seems her unborn children may be way too important to Aidon's ex. Saving the world while pregnant is also exhausting.

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
511 reviews4 followers
June 22, 2024
Love, hope and family conquer all
They jumped into the deep end feet first and running in this adventure! A decoy to drag the group into the goddess Eris's trap was set.... a huge puzzle of lots to take in and unravel and the end prize is the babies! Good thing the love, friendship and family bonds are strong with Phoebe's group! I wonder what happened to the witch mouse though? Hope to find out in the next adventure!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,184 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2024
Carrying triplets is hard work and Phoebe is worn thin. The trouble begins when Todd arrives to let Phoebe know that an elderly woman has gone missing in Salem under peculiar circumstances. Phoebe, Stella, and Aidon drive to Salem, with Todd, Tseki, and Outta ugh arriving later, to check into the disappearance and find dark magic. This story has action, laughter, romance, and a bit of steam, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for L KQ.
5,478 reviews21 followers
July 1, 2024
Ex-girlfriend Returns

With the goddess Eris making an appearance and a missing witch bringing the group together to save the world the situation intensifies as chaos has exploded. Aiden and Phoebe hit an unexpected obstacle to their relationship that could affect not only the universe as they know it but the lives of their children. This was an intense story that is part of larger plot within the series. I cannot wait for the next one as I need to know what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
320 reviews2 followers
June 29, 2024
This book was very interesting. Read it draws you into their world, and the characters were well developed, and the story was well written by this author I really enjoyed it. I would definitely recommend it. It was a definite page Turner, and kept me reading to the very end, definitely looking forward to the next book Author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,893 reviews116 followers
July 6, 2024
Phoebe and Stella are back and they just cannot seem to catch a break at all. Unlucky for them but awesome for us as once again we jump in feet first for another exciting adventure as a witch goes missing. Teaming up with Stella’s husband, they head into the heart of Salem and things really take off. It’s a great read full of surprises and shocks and is a fantastic addition to this incredible series.
Profile Image for Reader_for_LifeTLG.
2,734 reviews17 followers
July 13, 2024
Magically good chaos - A fun day of lessons for the kids in magical know-how turns into another race to save the world. At least the magical seat of New England - Salem. Vampires, Dark Fae and wicked demigods are just a few of the challenges to be removed as Phoebe, Stella and their posse of good stave off disaster again. All because some female can't get over a male.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,655 reviews
August 31, 2024
Brilliant Series

Shady Secrets & Sun Spots (Midlife Mysteries & Magic Book 43) by Brenda Trim. The goddess of Chaos Eris has decided to take Phoebe’s unborn children and bring them up as her own and if Aidon is thrown in that’s a bonus. During one of the battles with Eris’s minions Stella’s mundie Sheriff husband Todd is injured and given magic.
Profile Image for Cindy Matthes.
3 reviews
October 6, 2025
These books went down hill fast.

They used to be interesting and I loved the by play with her familiar and family but its just gotten so repetitive and the whole baby story line is just bleh. The last two books her familiar isn't really talking to her it's like a different author.
Profile Image for Larry.
3,038 reviews17 followers
October 7, 2025
This is a adventure packed full of drama, sorrow, and determination. The characters are up against Eres, the goddess of chaos and the fight is huge. The plot is straightforward and Todd, Stella's husband, a mundane, is told and shown more of the supernatural world. The premise is surviving the fight and returning the mundane world back to normal. I definitely recommend this book.
3,129 reviews47 followers
October 17, 2025
Loved the narration from Naomi Rose-Mock

This book has it all danger, action, steam, prophecy, a goddess, a crazy ex, jealousy and family.
Phoebe and the witches have to survive and trust me you will love all the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
834 reviews3 followers
November 12, 2025
This is book 14 of Mystical Midlife in Maine. I loved the story. It is a magical paranormal mystery of a missing witch and dangers untold. I love that this book has cross over characters that continue to build the story. I cannot wait for the next in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,020 reviews45 followers
May 30, 2024
a goddess with a crazy bunch of ideas about power and destiny does significant damage to Phoebe and friends

can the witches and babies survive?

intense drama, tests of friendships and family, and hard hitting action

Profile Image for Karen Fisher.
1,276 reviews11 followers
May 31, 2024
I enjoyed this book. Filled with snark, humor and unrequited love it certainly kept my attention. This author creates incredible worlds and unique characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
91 reviews
June 13, 2024
Disappointed

Is this the world’s longest pregnancy? Will Phoebe ever stop whining? There are some common threads through the entire series, but the plots are becoming repetitive and the cliffhangers have lost their appeal.
Profile Image for Tami.
486 reviews1 follower
June 13, 2024
The love between Aiden and Phoebe is amazing and love between friends and family are awesome. Can't wait for the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
765 reviews2 followers
June 17, 2024
Love this series!!

This story leads you to love the good characters and hate the evil ones. It was filled with witches and magic, gods and love, dragons and shifters, tainted witches and an evil goddess.
Profile Image for Jeanéva Christie.
Author 2 books111 followers
June 26, 2024
Love this series!
What appears to be mundane at first sight is anything but. Phoebe, Stella, and crew are drug into a prophecy requiring much unraveling. Plenty of danger, intrigue, and adventure are involved, plus one crazy jealous ex. I can't wait for the next in the series.
4,497 reviews24 followers
June 30, 2024
I enjoyed reading this series, every book is well written and better than the last. I can't wait to read more from this author. I received this book as a Free ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
2,166 reviews28 followers
July 4, 2024
This series and the author's writing never fails to impress me. It is best read from the first book! I loved everything about this addition to the series!!! It makes me want more! No Spoilers!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
121 reviews1 follower
July 30, 2024
Whew this is some book.

It felt like a never ending battle. I found it a bit repetitive battle after battle. And at the end no real conclusion. I was left wanting more definitive conclusion.
5,450 reviews32 followers
August 13, 2024
Brenda Trim has worked her magic on this latest installment of MMiM. The character work and story line were well written and kept me coming back for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kelly.
31 reviews2 followers
May 24, 2025
This book was amazing full of magic and adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't put this book down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
47 reviews
June 7, 2024
Starriffic

I'm so glad that so many of the supporting characters are so active in this book. I think they add another dimension to the story.
Profile Image for JANE VAN HORN.
2,085 reviews12 followers
June 18, 2024
Great book

This is another great book in the Midlife in Maine series by Brenda Trim. I can't wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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