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A death. A demon deal. A magical dilemma.While my son continues to reel from his recent loss and seems to pull further away from me and his friends, our communication with the demon king yields surprising information. But information from the underworld comes at a cost and we are yet to learn the true price. We learn about the dark witch’s past and clues to her plan. But an artifact she needs is stolen and if we don’t retrieve it, our realm could fall. As my magic continues to mutate, I find myself on the brink of oblivion and driven to protect those I hold dear. Will I be able to thwart Mardella’s plan or am I one spell away from my own destruction?Find out what is brewing in the bowels of the underworld by reading Challenge of Magic, the Paranormal Women's Fiction readers are comparing to Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, and Victoria Dannan. One click to continue this Magical Midlife adventure now!

186 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2024

50 people are currently reading
8 people want to read

About the author

Tia Didmon

506 books825 followers
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!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
2,996 reviews43 followers
September 10, 2024
This is book twelve of the Midlife Demons and Demigods series and sees the Hunters still having to battle against the dark witch, Mardella’s evil plans, none of which are actually clear as yet. She is still creating lots of hybrids and is using a number of artifacts for an unknown purpose. Her latest round of hybrids are mixtures of various demons and creatures, meaning they are more dangerous to the hunters and others who come across them, as the poison from some, is not something their healers know how to deal with. Caleb and his shadow cat, Sphinx, as well as his mother, Shannon, are still key targets of Mardella, who wants their powers for herself! The demon king is supposedly allowing help from his end, if they can stop Mardella and end her which could be difficult, since she is apparently unable to be killed as he well knows. Caleb is still struggling with Sahara’s death and then the death of his estranged father who he was just rebuilding a relationship with. He blames himself for both and has been keeping away even from his other teammates, which is not good for him or Sphinx. Shannon is having difficulties using her main healing magic, as it seems she has a new type of magic evolving, throwing her magic into disarray. Her magic is mutating into something none of the Hunters have ever seen or heard of. A surprising revelation by Kenji, the imp, brings a shock to her and Daryn at the end but helps to explain what is happening to her!

Mardella pulls Shannon and Daryn, as well as the other senior hunters, into numerous traps of her making, always seeming to be a step ahead of them in everything she does. Mardella is after more artifacts, and Cipher has to try and figure out what artifacts she might be after, and what it is she would be using them for. Once they can figure out what artifacts she might be after, they need to find out who may have them, some could be with private collectors and others were stolen from museums, including theirs! Kaine is still not allowed off base, so Cipher pairs up with Indy when they go out in the field, with Cipher being very protective of Indy, no matter how much she tries to push him away! Mardella obviously has a certain ritual in mind, but she is distracting them all with her various attacks, keeping them on edge and not following a clear path, to give them any idea of what her actual end game is. The assistance from the demon king will have a price, but that is unknown as yet, and some of his increased numbers of demons entering the realm, can attack the hunters as well as the dark witch and her hybrids, as they have little self-control. Bigger and stronger demonic hybrids and allies from the demon king will continue to arrive for the Hunters to face, as they must struggle against Mardella’s dark plans. There will be hard loses, but also moments of joy, even a possible addition to one of the teams and unexpected news.

Another dramatic storyline, with so much going on around the need to stop the dark witch and the constant issues faced by those battling against her. Strong bonds have been formed within the Hunters HQ, with any accepted into their family supported no matter what. Some are struggling with what has happened recently, but they will be supported in whatever decisions they make. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

4 ½ stars
Profile Image for Rebel.
2,654 reviews
September 8, 2024
Challenge of Magic delves into an intense mix of emotional struggle, magical mayhem, and high-stakes conflict that will leave readers gripping their seats until the final page. The story picks up with a palpable tension: the protagonist’s son is still reeling from a recent loss, creating an emotional barrier between them. This adds a deep, personal element to the supernatural chaos surrounding them, making the stakes feel even more personal.

The demon king, a mysterious and dangerous ally, provides cryptic insights into the looming threat of Mardella, the dark witch. I found the way Tia Didmon masterfully balances the protagonist’s maternal instincts with her evolving magical abilities to be one of the highlights of the book. As her powers continue to mutate, you feel her struggle to remain grounded, knowing that one misstep could lead to her downfall—and possibly that of her realm.

What stands out in Challenge of Magic is the rich layering of plot twists. The stolen artifact adds a thrilling dimension to the plot, pushing our protagonist into the heart of a perilous journey to recover it. Every decision feels like it could tip the balance between victory and ruin, keeping the suspense high.

Didmon also excels at fleshing out her characters, especially the protagonist, who is not just a hero but a mother and a woman facing the complications of midlife. Her connection to her son, as well as her willingness to make difficult choices for the greater good, gives the story a grounding, relatable emotional depth.

Fans of Shannon Mayer and K.F. Breene will find the same blend of action, heart, and humor here. Challenge of Magic keeps the series’ momentum alive with its intriguing world-building, richly developed characters, and thrilling magical dilemmas. If you love stories about powerful women navigating both personal and paranormal challenges, this book is a must-read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rebecca Hill.
720 reviews10 followers
September 5, 2024
Challenge Of Magic is the twelfth book in the Midlife Demons and Demigods series. These are not standalone books. Each books picks up from the last so you're best off starting with the first book: Destiny Of Magic.

This book picks up from the battle at the quarry with the loss of yet another hunter (Arean), this one with a wife (Lisa) and child (Gabrielle) on the way. The loss resonates through the community. While deaths are expected, they are never easy.

The team seems to come to the conclusion that Mardella, the Dark Witch, continues to arrange these attacks in order to wear them down. She also seems to embed pieces of truth amidst her lies. They still cannot figure out her end goal, but that won't stop them from trying. They follow whatever clues they can track down, including connection to magical artifacts and rituals that combine objects.

Shannon's new magic continues to evolve which is both exciting, but also confusing and sometimes frustrating. With this new protection magic she seems to be unable to control her healing magic.

There's lots more in this one, including the underworld's king recalling Ogie, progress on the antiques shop, and meeting Katya, Sahara's twin. While there has definitely been a trend towards purple prose as the series progresses, often with select words being frequently repeated, but my love for these characters keeps me coming back for more.

The author usually leaves readers with a teaser for the next book. In the past I have been able to stop myself before delving in, and await the next release. The cliffhanger conclusion in this one though had me quickly flipping the page for more.

I'm happy to share that there is one more book added to the list of what's coming:
Ruin Of Magic - A baby. A bargain. A betrayal. - Dec 2024
Salvation Of Magic - Find out what is on the horizon in Spirit Falls. - March 2025

I'm counting the days....
Profile Image for Maralina E Dvorak.
82 reviews3 followers
August 15, 2024
Magic - Hybrids - Tech - Artifacts

Have to repeat, again, because this series deserves it: Absolutely positively love this series. Another addition to this perfectly written story. Oh my, Tia Didmon and Victoria Crawford have definitely done it again. In this addition, we get to learn more about Sahara and her twin, Katya whom appears to be evolving her own magic and is getting stronger. Indy comes to the rescue being able to siphon Kat, albeit temporarily, which in turn helps Indy with healing after being magically poisoned. Katya has had a different life and chose a different path so her journey is not well understood by all....yet (hints: her uncle). Shannon however, what is happening to her magic? She seems to have developed some amazing protective skills while her original healing magic isn't readily available any longer...or is it? Poor Caleb is healing from recent losses with the help of Sphinx, the wonderful shadow cat and is surprised by Katya. While on the search for artifacts Mardella (the Dark Witch) may be using, they are lead to an amazing mansion that had been owned by a Warlock that dealt with artifacts, both mundane and empowered, on and off the black market. The hunters are still being attacked by strange and amazingly described hybrid demons/monsters with their skills being tested. Needless to say, war may be coming with Mardella planning something the hunters need to prepare for somehow. There is so much happening in this story and Tia Didmon/Victoria Crawford writes this so well, you may forget you're reading and just see this happening in your mind's eye. Every character is unique, maintaining their skills and humanity having strengths and weaknesses. They may be empowered and are still very much human. This is one of the very best series!
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,504 reviews
August 31, 2024
Daryn and Shannon and the other Hunters still haven’t caught that much down time as the Dark Witch just keeps on coming up with freaky stuff that causes death in mundane and witchy/demigods alike. Plus, there are demon hybrids to fight and demons too. With the death of another hunter through poison, and Indy getting hurt, they aren’t doing so well in the fight. Lochlan is the oldest Hunter and a Master one at that and the fact that he has a rare ability and how he fights is just freaking awesome. I’m totally in love with him. The fact that Indy teases him just makes me love her more. Kaine seems to be doing a little better thank goodness. Shannon seems to be going through a metamorphosis regarding her powers. Some work and some don’t. It is just crazy. Cipher stepping up had me squealing in glee and bouncing on my bed like a six year old. lol. With the death of his father, Shannon’s son, Caleb is freaking out which is making his Shadowcat, Sphinx, is awesome. I love her. Learning about all the different demon types and their attributes in all of the books is totally fascinating. I absolutely love all the fight scenes, they totally rock. Some weird stuff happens and is totally shocking and had me freaking out. Then Kenji at the end said what I had been thinking all along. I giggled at least for five minutes on that one. I love this series so much. Definitely going on my must reread every year list.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Toni.
2,357 reviews24 followers
September 3, 2024
After a battle one hunter is left dead. This on top of a rookie's death. Mardala has caused havoc and death and she is creating hybrids that are more dangerous than the regular demons. Shannon is exhibiting new powers and no one knows what kind it is. They return to the compound to find out how Indy is doing and discover that the poison from the demon is stronger and Cranston is being drained using his power. Then the rookie's twin sister shows up.
Shannon makes an observation that has Daryn thinking and putting Cyper to work on extrapolating information on the artifacts she has that they known and what rituals/spells they can be used with. Then a spanner is thrown into the works when Ogie, the male imp, tells them he is the messenger between them and the demon king. The hunters seem to go from one crisis to another and it's draining them all. The biggest issue is Shannon and the exhaustion she is experiencing which they feel is from her new powers showing up. Until Kenji drops a bomb on them.....
Another fast paced heart wrenching story in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jessica.
109 reviews
October 3, 2025
Audiobook Review

Overall Story Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️ (2/5)
Narration Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Review:
This one hits the ground running—grief, demon bargains, and the looming threat of Mardella’s next move. By book 12, you expect the action, but I wasn’t prepared for how emotional this one got. Shannon’s son’s distance and pain adds a new layer, while Shannon herself is fighting changes in her magic that feel as dangerous as the enemy. The stakes are heavy, and the ending? Brutal in the best way.

Narration:
Katie Hagaman once again does a fantastic job carrying this intense, emotional, and action-packed entry. She gives Shannon’s struggles real weight, balances the tension between grief and urgency, and still delivers humor when the story needs it. Her pacing fits the action perfectly.

Would I recommend:
Yes, if you’re already invested in the Midlife Demons and Demigods series. This is not a casual standalone, but for fans, it’s one of the strongest entries yet. You get family drama, world-building reveals, and a huge twist that sets up even more chaos.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,028 reviews40 followers
November 9, 2024
Our heroine learns information that could be vital to their efforts, but that information comes with a cost. Will the information be worth the price, or is this just another step towards their inevitable defeat?

This is book twelve of the series. It does pretty well as a standalone, but will definitely be a better experience if read in order.

This is a paranormal romance story with witches, demons and that ilk. 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, so I am definitely looking forward to seeing more. The characters are equally well done. I definitely like our heroine and look forward to getting to know her better. The plot has a nice bit of mystery to it and, of course, plenty of magic. Overall, this is an intense series and I look forward to seeing what comes next.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
50 reviews
April 11, 2025
Challenge Of Magic is the twelfth book/audiobook in the Midlife Demons and Demigods series. Each book/audiobook picks up from the last so you're best off starting with the first book/audiobook (Destiny of Magic). This book/audiobook picks up from the battle at the quarry, Mardella, the Dark Witch, is continuing to arrange attacks and the hunters still cannot figure out her end goal. They follow every clue they can, including connection to magical artifacts and rituals that combine objects she has obtained.
The audiobook is narrated by Katie Hagaman who does a wonderful job of presenting the story.
Tia Didmon and Victoria Crawford are excellent writers and I recommend not only this series but all their books! It bears repeating that you should start with the first book/audiobook (Destiny of Magic) and read/listen to the books/audiobooks in order they were written!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,020 reviews45 followers
September 4, 2024
As her powers continue to change, and enhanced protective magics develop and grow, Shanyn must manage her fears and skills, and temper the protective instincts of those around her.

The Dark Witch continues on her mission for power and tools to help her in her drive to master the realms.

She faces the weight of the past and new hopes as unexpected players enter the battlefield, and past incidents are held in the memories of others from her team, and not fully shared with her.

New boundaries, temporary allies, and foes present themselves as things get trickier once again.

Challenges never seem to cease in this truly no longer mundane world they find themselves in - exciting and dramatic adventures and suspense.



757 reviews3 followers
September 5, 2024
I love reading about Shannon's "new "powers. Their thoughts of what it could be and why she has them now. I love the surprises and twists with the new power.
Daryn is also their to support her . I love his thought process to the dilemmas they seem to encounter with the dark Marcella and her hybrids.
Indy and her sass was fun to read.
We also meet Katya, Sahara's twin sister. We learn a little about her past and why she doesn't like Thule.
Kaine is still struggling.
Tia never disappoints with her twist and surprises. Love the edge of your seat suspense. The flow was great.
Can't wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
331 reviews
August 13, 2024
Remarkable paranormal drama. Shannon, Daryn, and the team are still trying to figure out Mardella's plan and take her down. Shannon's magic is going haywire and a new magic has emerged with no time to process the changes. The injuries, loss, and fighting is taking a toll on everyone. Intriguing fast paced drama that piques your curiosity. I absolutely love this series. Tia and Victoria have done an extraordinary job with this storyline. The perfect storm of magic, comradary, and tragedy. Captivating series that I highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Denise.
3,719 reviews
August 14, 2024
The wordy prose continues, but there are some important developments in this book. One is about Ogie and why he is topside, one has to do with Sahara's sibling, then there is a new theory, or two, about what Mardella is trying to accomplish. Lastly, is a possible explanation for Shannon's new shielding magic. Some of you will have already figured it out long before the big reveal at the end of the book, I know I did. But suffice it to say that things are getting interesting again, demon battles not withstanding. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
308 reviews
September 4, 2024
Daryn, Shannon and their team must battle against a vicious dark witch and her hybrid monsters. Daryn is the leader of the Hunters, Shannon is a powerful witch and his soulmate. Together they must search for lost relics the dark witch needs for her spells, protect supernaturals and humanity from monster attacks, demons while mourning their dead. They will never stop fighting against any evil that threatens their people. This is another thrilling, action packed and inspirational story in a spellbinding series. Amazing reading, can’t wait for the next book 🥰.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,961 reviews6 followers
September 13, 2024
10+ Stars!!
Challenge Of Magic is book 12 in the Midlife Demons and Demigods series by the amazing duo of Tia Didmon and Victoria Crawford. Daryn and Shannon and the other Hunters are continued to be bombarded by the Dark Witch Mardella's hybrid creations and just cannot catch a break! This series is a nonstop roller coaster ride that sometimes I just can't catch my breath! I'm so torn, I want to see the end of the series so that I know the good guys will win albeit with some losses but at the same time I just don't want it to be over!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Emma Collins.
Author 4 books5 followers
May 2, 2025
Another thrilling installment in the Midlife Dem series! This audiobook blends magic, mystery, and emotion perfectly. The stakes are higher than ever as the heroine faces a stolen artifact, a brewing war, and the weight of her evolving powers. The emotional tension with her son adds depth, while the demon king plotline keeps things unpredictable. The narrator delivers strong pacing and emotion, bringing the characters and drama to life. If you love paranormal women’s fiction with action, heart, and a touch of darkness, this one’s a must-listen.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sharon Smith.
186 reviews1 follower
September 5, 2024
This series and characters come alive with the descriptions and the differing personalities. There is always something new to learn in the ongoing development of the main character's magic. Every book in this series has had me wondering what is next for the main characters and their struggle over their enemies. This last twist was an interesting one and I can't wait to see where this goes! I highly recommend this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sue MacKenzie.
1,677 reviews15 followers
August 12, 2024
This story starts with loss but end's with a new future.
They're still trying to figure out what the witch is after but the demon king actually shares a bit of information and assistance this time, which was interesting.
Shannon's magic is changing and it's curious to see how someone has helped her out with that.
But there's still so much unknown.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
121 reviews1 follower
September 9, 2024
Shannon and Daryn continue the fight against the witch Mardella.

With her emotions and her powers almost out of her control Shannon can only stand on the sidelines with her protective shield and watch as Mardella and her hybrids attack the hunters.

Mardella manages to steal a powerful artifact from under their noses even with the king on their side she manages to escape.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Esmeralda Cruz.
295 reviews3 followers
September 16, 2024
A thrilling journey of magic, family, and danger, “Challenge of Magic” keeps you hooked with its fast-paced plot and emotional depth. The heroine’s evolving powers and the looming threat from the underworld create an engaging mix of suspense and heart. Perfect for fans of paranormal women’s fiction who enjoy magical adventures and strong motherly bonds.

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
September 22, 2024
Book 12 and we pick up from where we left off and this latest addition is just as exciting and as gripping as the previous books. Our hunters just don’t seem to catch a break as there’s demons and hybrids to battle, the dark witch just does not let up and there’s also loss to face. It’s emotional and it's thrilling as our characters continue to band together and fight the good fight and I look forward to the next book!
111 reviews3 followers
September 25, 2024
I have been provided with a review copy of Challenge of Magic from Booksprout for an impartial review. I was just drawn into this wonderful story and I just couldn’t get enough of it. It was just so easy to get lost in this great story. I just didn’t want it to end. I just lost myself in it and I just couldn’t get enough of these interesting characters. I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author.
1,714 reviews10 followers
September 30, 2024
Shannon’s magical problems are revealed. Hecate has a plan and it will be revealed in the next book we hope. I did guess what the problem was and was happy when it was confirmed. Mardella’s has another artifact and getting closer to her goal. Things are getting exciting and I hope in the next book to find out what the Dark Witch’s plans are. I would recommend reading this book and series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.2k reviews8 followers
May 17, 2025
The twelfth story in the Midlife Demons and Demigods, another engaging story in this series. Daryn, Shannon and their team must battle against a vicious dark witch and her hybrid monsters and also stand by her son's side as he comes to grips with what has happened before. A well written story of drama, suspense, evil with twists and turns. I want to listen to the next book. i enjoyed listening to Katie Hagaman narrate the story.
442 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2025
Challenge of Magic by Tia Didmon and Victoria Crawford is a wonderful paranormal fantasy. Katie Hagaman did a fantastic job with the narration. Challenge of Magic is the 12th book in the series Midlife Demons and Demigods. What happens when a traitor is in the hunters? What happens when the traitor leads to a forgotten prison?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Margarita Rose.
1,181 reviews11 followers
August 28, 2024
The dark witch is wearing the hunters down. They are exhausted by the non stop attacks. Shannon is really feeling it. She can't get her magic to work right. Shock from the death of another hunter is leaving everyone shell shocked.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jeanéva Christie.
Author 2 books111 followers
September 2, 2024
Discombobulated.
Everything is turning up more for Shannon. New magic appears to be coming, which is always a challenge. Meeting Katya, Sahara's twin is more for everyone. The feels just keep hitting and Shannon feels at tears edge more often than not. This one has a lot happening you won't want to miss. I can't wait for Ruin of Magic.
835 reviews3 followers
September 4, 2024
Each book that I read in the series just leaves me excited to read the next one. This story picks up where the last one left off. The author is great at allowing me to easily visualize her characters. There are twists and turns in the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for LeMiliere.
2,888 reviews20 followers
September 4, 2024
Things are hotting up again as Daryn, Shannon and their team battle against the dark witch and her hybrid monsters.

Daryn and Shannon are soulmates, who together must search for the lost relics and protect supernaturals and humanity from the attacks from the demons and monsters.

This is a series which must be read in the correct order.

4,270 reviews20 followers
September 5, 2024
This enjoyable series continuation has drama, deals, magic, paranormal characters, and hybrids. The MCs are defined, engaging, and likable. The storyline is entertaining and engaging, but not standalone. I liked this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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