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Forty Proof #9
Midlife Vampire Hunter
I had her in my arms, only to lose her moments later. Frantic doesn't even begin to describe my state of mind as I search for Bree. That search takes me deep into my past and to a family home that I swore I would never return to. To find Bree, I must face a queen I defied and a monster that wants my soul. All while being heckled by a demon-infested blade. Goddess help me succeed.
Being abducted by a woman who is supposed to be dead, and weirdly looks a heck of a lot like me, is disturbing. Being told my death is needed to complete a wicked spell and that I'll be turned into a vampire? Even more disturbing, I can't reach Crash or my friends. I have no idea where I am. My only ally? Alan. My ex-husband. Yup, you read that right, The path to the end of my story is shadowed in fog, danger, and mystery, but I begin to see through it as the players and truth emerge. And that sight shows me that the sliver of hope is worth hanging onto, that my friends are with me even when I cannot see them, and that a future free of those who mean us harm is possible. Even if it costs me more than I ever planned on paying.
Being abducted by a woman who is supposed to be dead, and weirdly looks a heck of a lot like me, is disturbing. Being told my death is needed to complete a wicked spell and that I'll be turned into a vampire? Even more disturbing, I can't reach Crash or my friends. I have no idea where I am. My only ally? Alan. My ex-husband. Yup, you read that right, The path to the end of my story is shadowed in fog, danger, and mystery, but I begin to see through it as the players and truth emerge. And that sight shows me that the sliver of hope is worth hanging onto, that my friends are with me even when I cannot see them, and that a future free of those who mean us harm is possible. Even if it costs me more than I ever planned on paying.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2024
1158 people are currently reading
528 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Mayer
161 books7,240 followersA long time ago, in a galaxy far away, I was born into a family of Star Wars nuts. I have a lot of siblings (somewhere I lost count but I think there was more than could be numbered on one hand) and being one of the young padawans I was subjected to Star Wars marathons, on a regular basis. If you've read any of my books you'll see there is often a reference to said movies as a small homage to my upbringing. May the force be with you and all that jazz.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
I started writing when I realized I didn't want to grow up not believing in magic, or not believing in creatures everyone else said didn't exist. That being said, I have never seen a fairy, unicorn or dragon. I had a neighbour who swore they fed the leprechauns in their garden, but I never caught the little buggers no matter how long I lay in wait. (And consequently had to help the neighbours plant new flowers to replace those I killed waiting for the leprechauns to show their faces.)
Along the way, I found my husband who is the rock that keeps me from floating away into my dreams, and we have a little boy who is the centre of our world. Living on a farm keeps us busy (as if the writing wasn't enough) and I have more than my share of stories about wrestling with cows, helping birth calves and ending up in the creek during the process, falling in the mud (we'll call it mud but we all know that on a farm, mud is rarely mud) and chasing escaped livestock in the hopes the four legged convicts don't make it to the highway.
I've taken up archery, and the goal is to move into horseback archery in time (you know, when I can hit the target on a consistent basis) and when no one is looking, I love to bake (this doesn't happen often as it's hard to keep the sweet treats in stock with two boys in the house.)
As to what's coming next for me? More stories (since those never stop inside my head, I might as well share them with all of you!) and more adventures. Pretty much, when the fancy strikes, I'll jump on it. Leap before you look I'm sure that motto was created for me.
Or was that . . . think big and dream bigger, ready, set, pull the trigger . . . yeah. That one is a good one too. But only if you have a gun. And are hunting elephants. Which is not cool because of so many reasons. Let's stick with the first one with an addendum.
Leap before you look and let your dreams carry you on their wings. And that, my friends, is me in a nutshell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 318 reviews
July 24, 2024
As sad as I am that I have to say goodbye to all these fun, wonderful characters, I am so happy with how this all came together and ended overall. This was just a great series and one that I am so glad I took a chance on. It really was different and entertaining, funny, and pulled in from the very first book.
July 21, 2024
This felt incredibly hastily written. And where was the spice? I was bored most of the way through and only finished because I’m a completionist.
May 3, 2024
I knew this was the last book in the series, so I tried not to let that affect me. However, I was so sad at the end. I loved how this book was written from both Crash’s and Bree’s POV. It made it richer and kept us in suspense in a few spots. Yes, I’m very sad this is over, but I am delighted at how this book ended. There were a few surprises, a couple of twists and turns, and, above all, great writing that we’ve all come to expect from this author. I’m ready for the next book from this author because she never disappoints. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
December 29, 2024
Shannon Mayer's "Midlife Vampire Hunter" (Forty Proof #9) is a wonderfully original and quirky look at our heroine who is over 40 and starting over. I pissed myself laughing out loud all the way through. Shannon is a loose cannon when she writes and trust me you would not want her any other way. Shannon and the other Fab 13 are taking the world by storm by showing that being over 40 does not mean the end of life but something to be celebrated, pee pads and all. This brilliant story takes us on a journey where Breena finds herself in the most unlikely of situations and it is hard not to feel like you are on the run with her every step of the way. With laughter and magic, ex husbands and demons, leprechauns, werewolves, skeletons and more and you have everything you could ever want in a story, now you just need a bottle of wine and a quiet place to lose yourself in Shannon's fantastic writing. Sadly this is the last book.
May 7, 2024
There went my last duck
The dedication alone is worth reading this book. Everything about it is so incredibly true and more women would benefit from having a full on Bree glow up in their lives. It’s incredible the way some very seemingly simple words can completely change your point of view about not only yourself but also the way you wish to show yourself to the world. I thank you immensely for those words Shannon Mayer.
Getting the end of one Mayer’s series is always a bittersweet moment and this one is no different. Let’s face it, 40 year old women don’t have a lot of ducks left to give. When Bree’s last one went wandering off into the night we got to watch her story unfold in the most magical of ways with so many twists and turns along the way. Whenever it seemed like I had a handle on where Bree was headed Mayer turned the wheel in the complete opposite direction and made this one of her best series. A perfect end to an amazing series. I’m sad it’s over but I’m happy I have a 40 year old role model to look up to.
The dedication alone is worth reading this book. Everything about it is so incredibly true and more women would benefit from having a full on Bree glow up in their lives. It’s incredible the way some very seemingly simple words can completely change your point of view about not only yourself but also the way you wish to show yourself to the world. I thank you immensely for those words Shannon Mayer.
Getting the end of one Mayer’s series is always a bittersweet moment and this one is no different. Let’s face it, 40 year old women don’t have a lot of ducks left to give. When Bree’s last one went wandering off into the night we got to watch her story unfold in the most magical of ways with so many twists and turns along the way. Whenever it seemed like I had a handle on where Bree was headed Mayer turned the wheel in the complete opposite direction and made this one of her best series. A perfect end to an amazing series. I’m sad it’s over but I’m happy I have a 40 year old role model to look up to.
May 5, 2024
Vampire Hunter
Vampire Hunter is the 9th book of of the Forty Proof series. While it can be read as a stand alone, due to Ms Mayer’s amazing talent of easily bringing any reader current with the story, I prefer to have read the entire series. For me, it is a richer experience. That being said, the story is amazing. It is told by different characters, including Bree’s ex husband. Loved ones are again at the heart of Bree’s decisions. Our characters have 6 days to find a missing Bree, disrupt or destroy a nasty spell and to destroy a very nasty witch. Said witch is wife to our beloved Robert. Bree’s cousin Bramble is a puzzle. Whose side she’s on is at issue. Crash has finally accepted the fact that Bree is his great love.
He will do anything to save her. With non-stop action, the story is not a good pre-sleep read. I dearly hope this series continues. I love the characters.
Vampire Hunter is the 9th book of of the Forty Proof series. While it can be read as a stand alone, due to Ms Mayer’s amazing talent of easily bringing any reader current with the story, I prefer to have read the entire series. For me, it is a richer experience. That being said, the story is amazing. It is told by different characters, including Bree’s ex husband. Loved ones are again at the heart of Bree’s decisions. Our characters have 6 days to find a missing Bree, disrupt or destroy a nasty spell and to destroy a very nasty witch. Said witch is wife to our beloved Robert. Bree’s cousin Bramble is a puzzle. Whose side she’s on is at issue. Crash has finally accepted the fact that Bree is his great love.
He will do anything to save her. With non-stop action, the story is not a good pre-sleep read. I dearly hope this series continues. I love the characters.
May 10, 2024
Perfection! Terrific ending. It was everything I could have hoped for
August 14, 2024
Not what I expected
Not sure about this one to be honest. Didn't flow like the last 8 . I know the series had to end but I am quite disappointed in how this book was written. Doing it from different people's perspective spoiled the flow of the story and took away the enjoyable fun element of the last books . Can't understand why Crash had to go home and go through everything with his mother/demon when it did nothing to help Bree or the overall story. Also what happened to louis/ Clovis huge part leading up to the end and then nothing?
It feels like the end was rushed and left me feeling like there should be more to come.
Not sure about this one to be honest. Didn't flow like the last 8 . I know the series had to end but I am quite disappointed in how this book was written. Doing it from different people's perspective spoiled the flow of the story and took away the enjoyable fun element of the last books . Can't understand why Crash had to go home and go through everything with his mother/demon when it did nothing to help Bree or the overall story. Also what happened to louis/ Clovis huge part leading up to the end and then nothing?
It feels like the end was rushed and left me feeling like there should be more to come.
May 12, 2024
I had some ups and downs with this series. It started really strong, up until some point each book from this series was on my most anticipated releases list. But then, I don't know? I got bored? Or maybe it went to long already to keep me entertained? Who knows... Few books just didn't click with me.
But I'm happy to say "Midlife Vampire Hunter" was a really good ending to this series! It didn't felt rushed or overly complicated. There were some hilarious scenes, and there was scenes that made me cry... As I'm a trash for romance, I wish there was MORE Bree-Crash scenes, but I'm happy how it all played out for them.
Even though I've had my issues with this series it's really sad to say goodbye to it... I've discovered it as soon as it came out, so I've spent 4 years bonding with Bree and her friends...
But I'm happy to say "Midlife Vampire Hunter" was a really good ending to this series! It didn't felt rushed or overly complicated. There were some hilarious scenes, and there was scenes that made me cry... As I'm a trash for romance, I wish there was MORE Bree-Crash scenes, but I'm happy how it all played out for them.
Even though I've had my issues with this series it's really sad to say goodbye to it... I've discovered it as soon as it came out, so I've spent 4 years bonding with Bree and her friends...
May 20, 2024
I am so sad that this series is ending.
Bree has saved everyone, except for herself. Now she has to figure out a way to end it all without it ending her.
We have the full cast present in this last installment of the series. Though the focus is Crash and Bree POV we get some small features from the others. In a surprise twist, we see a ton of Alan. Who *gasp* starts to grow a heart!
I always enjoy the banter between characters that this author skillfully writes in. The mission, twists, turns, and surprises always amaze me. My only complaint with this book is that so much was introduced and stopped very quickly making it feel rushed or incomplete at times. However, we still got a great adventure and ending for the characters…. Even if I wish we had more.
Bree has saved everyone, except for herself. Now she has to figure out a way to end it all without it ending her.
We have the full cast present in this last installment of the series. Though the focus is Crash and Bree POV we get some small features from the others. In a surprise twist, we see a ton of Alan. Who *gasp* starts to grow a heart!
I always enjoy the banter between characters that this author skillfully writes in. The mission, twists, turns, and surprises always amaze me. My only complaint with this book is that so much was introduced and stopped very quickly making it feel rushed or incomplete at times. However, we still got a great adventure and ending for the characters…. Even if I wish we had more.
May 2, 2024
I’m not crying…you’re crying.
Phew, what a roller coaster of emotions I just went through. I was so excited, but also so nervous, to jump one last time into Bree’s world. Picking up exactly where we left off, Midlife Vampire Hunter starts with Crash’s POV. Bree has been taken and she must be found! All of her friends are here to find her, but Crash most of all. Can he do it? Can he face his past? We then jump to Bree’s POV for part 2 where the rest of this tale is woven.
Full of so much action, I don’t know if I even took a breath reading this. I was on the edge of my seat hanging onto every word. Every heartbreak. Every victory. Bree’s story is truly about the power of love. Love for yourself. Love for your family and friends, who also become family. The love of those chosen family members for you. It was a beautiful conclusion, although I can’t say I’m not sad to see her world come to a close. Highly recommend this entire series!
Phew, what a roller coaster of emotions I just went through. I was so excited, but also so nervous, to jump one last time into Bree’s world. Picking up exactly where we left off, Midlife Vampire Hunter starts with Crash’s POV. Bree has been taken and she must be found! All of her friends are here to find her, but Crash most of all. Can he do it? Can he face his past? We then jump to Bree’s POV for part 2 where the rest of this tale is woven.
Full of so much action, I don’t know if I even took a breath reading this. I was on the edge of my seat hanging onto every word. Every heartbreak. Every victory. Bree’s story is truly about the power of love. Love for yourself. Love for your family and friends, who also become family. The love of those chosen family members for you. It was a beautiful conclusion, although I can’t say I’m not sad to see her world come to a close. Highly recommend this entire series!
May 12, 2024
A nice conclusion to Bree's story, though it didn't pack the punch that the first several books did. I think if I'd never read these books and then binge read the series in its entirety, perhaps I'd feel differently. I'd definitely read more books in this universe, if Bree wasn't the main character.
May 13, 2024
A lot of Shannon Mayer's characters go through a lot and have to adapt and grow throughout each series, but Bree is the most realistic to me. The body aches and pains, the constant mental struggles, it makes her more relatable.
I have loved this series with all of the ups and downs and this end is absolutely perfect! Sit down with book 1 and enjoy the ride, you won't regret it.
I have loved this series with all of the ups and downs and this end is absolutely perfect! Sit down with book 1 and enjoy the ride, you won't regret it.
May 19, 2024
I really enjoyed this series. Humor, action packed, thrilling and some romance. I have tried another series (Glitter series) by this author but that one was a no go. So dark. This one is somewhat dark but alot of lighthearted humor balances it out. I know she has more series so I will try those.
July 12, 2024
Bree gets “stolen”. Lots of book focuses on Crash and his feelings. We get to see Bree work out how she is going to escape and save the world. Lots happening and the pace is quick. Suzy and Feish get to be heroes. Twist at the end. Watch out! Highly recommend this series as it’s funny and entertaining and easy to read.
May 16, 2024
Perfect
Well worth waiting for. Perfect end to a fantastic series. Crash totally proved himself. And Bree has finally found the love she's always deserved. Read this series if you haven't yet. Its one of the best out there.
Well worth waiting for. Perfect end to a fantastic series. Crash totally proved himself. And Bree has finally found the love she's always deserved. Read this series if you haven't yet. Its one of the best out there.
December 4, 2024
Sigh. I’m so sad it’s over :/
December 9, 2024
So awesome!!!! So exciting! I was wanting so badly to throw this book across the room, whinch means it was amazing!
August 20, 2024
This book was just as great as the rest of the series. I really liked the ending but the author did have me concerned for a minute. I am glad Crash and Bree found each other. I was glad to go on another adventure with them. What does this Vampire spell do? Can Bree help make sure it doesn't happen? I love this series and hope the author has more great ideas for more books that are this good.
May 9, 2024
Loved it
I have loved this world. And this book was absolutely perfect. The best ending I could ever think of for this series. I can't think of anything else to say
I have loved this world. And this book was absolutely perfect. The best ending I could ever think of for this series. I can't think of anything else to say
July 17, 2024
I collected all the books and waited until the last book was published before I read the series. It was worth the wait. I give the series as a whole a 5 star rating
August 22, 2024
3.5* because of the last quarter of the book. I almost didn’t make it through, but from around 80% of the book things picked up and became good again.
May 23, 2024
Amazing
This is one of my favorite series. I have been reading it as each book came out over the past few years and I’m so sad to see it over but I loved every minute. Bree and her whole crew were amazing
This is one of my favorite series. I have been reading it as each book came out over the past few years and I’m so sad to see it over but I loved every minute. Bree and her whole crew were amazing
January 13, 2025
Shannon Mayer write the best series that are just fun and engaging. I binge read this saga! I couldn't stop when the next book in the series was already available. I had no torturous wait, thank goodness!
Mayer does a great job creating her very human and fallible gal bad *ss, who just keeps moving forward. Her imaginative fantasy worlds are complete with monsters, faeries, werewolves, goblins, vampires, witches, and a whole host of new creatures that might be good or bad or in-between. Add spicy romance and she writes a story you don't want to put down.
The protagonist, Bree is constantly underestimated as a woman in her early 40's. She has not been exposed to the magical and non-human shadow world for 20 years, as she left Savannah when she was 20 and married a non-magical man who convinced her that she was looney for thinking that magic is real. After 20 years, she divorced him and left their loveless marriage, but not before he left her broken both emotionally and financially because her ex was a true monster who gets away with constantly belittling her, and saddling her with all their debt while taking all the assets, including the house that belonged to her grandmother. Coming home to Savannah is the beginning of her journey to heal and grow into her true self. The series is meant to be read in order. Mayer does not, thankfully, spend time on a lengthy recap, which I find often takes up many more pages than necessary.
Mayer's stories immerse you in an alternate world while showing just how human her characters are. Her themes are cliché using a "love conquers all" plot," but it is a very fun and engaging read filled with surprises, imagination, and a host of weird but loveable characters. Every series I've read so far by her not only engages, but delivers a satisfactory wrap up.
In this series, I liked the toned-down swear words which were hilarious! I appreciated the warning before explicit love scenes, so I wasn't caught off-guard. Of course, I read them all.....
The covers are beautiful, but did wonder what creature is featured on the cover of the series? I guessed that it represented a dragon talisman pendant given to Bree by her grandmother that protects her against some magic, because there aren't any dragons in this story. It is never really explained. Or maybe I missed it while reading about the strong attractive men she introduces as love interests.
These stories are not created to be cerebral leaving you deep in thought about the meaning of life, and is probably not going to be the book of the month for your book club discussions, but it is funny, sometime hilarious, fast moving, action-packed and as imaginative as the best of writers. If you are open minded and comfortable with swarthy dialogue and sexual content, this series will take you for a fun and wild ride.
Mayer does a great job creating her very human and fallible gal bad *ss, who just keeps moving forward. Her imaginative fantasy worlds are complete with monsters, faeries, werewolves, goblins, vampires, witches, and a whole host of new creatures that might be good or bad or in-between. Add spicy romance and she writes a story you don't want to put down.
The protagonist, Bree is constantly underestimated as a woman in her early 40's. She has not been exposed to the magical and non-human shadow world for 20 years, as she left Savannah when she was 20 and married a non-magical man who convinced her that she was looney for thinking that magic is real. After 20 years, she divorced him and left their loveless marriage, but not before he left her broken both emotionally and financially because her ex was a true monster who gets away with constantly belittling her, and saddling her with all their debt while taking all the assets, including the house that belonged to her grandmother. Coming home to Savannah is the beginning of her journey to heal and grow into her true self. The series is meant to be read in order. Mayer does not, thankfully, spend time on a lengthy recap, which I find often takes up many more pages than necessary.
Mayer's stories immerse you in an alternate world while showing just how human her characters are. Her themes are cliché using a "love conquers all" plot," but it is a very fun and engaging read filled with surprises, imagination, and a host of weird but loveable characters. Every series I've read so far by her not only engages, but delivers a satisfactory wrap up.
In this series, I liked the toned-down swear words which were hilarious! I appreciated the warning before explicit love scenes, so I wasn't caught off-guard. Of course, I read them all.....
The covers are beautiful, but did wonder what creature is featured on the cover of the series? I guessed that it represented a dragon talisman pendant given to Bree by her grandmother that protects her against some magic, because there aren't any dragons in this story. It is never really explained. Or maybe I missed it while reading about the strong attractive men she introduces as love interests.
These stories are not created to be cerebral leaving you deep in thought about the meaning of life, and is probably not going to be the book of the month for your book club discussions, but it is funny, sometime hilarious, fast moving, action-packed and as imaginative as the best of writers. If you are open minded and comfortable with swarthy dialogue and sexual content, this series will take you for a fun and wild ride.
July 2, 2024
Spoilers
Spoilers
I'm not gonna lie. This last book really made me hate gran. Casting a love spell on Bree to force her and Alan together so her powers would be delayed is horrendous. And no one says it better than my man crash
"gods, she’d lived with him for twenty years, trying to make him love her. Trying to fix a marriage that had been broken from the very beginning. A piece of my heart broke for her, for the years lost on a love that never would have been, no matter what she did.'"
I don't care that she was trying to protect her from the shadows and bramble. She took away her choice and options and forced her to live in an abusive horrible relationship with a job she hates away from family in the name of "protection". There was nothing she could do after that to redeem herself in my eyes.
The rest of the story was pretty good. Bree's sacrifice, Alan's slight redemption, and the turn coat turning sides again (saw that one coming). I'm a little irked that all of this took place because a spell was translated incorrectly. Examples below:
"So maybe, just maybe, your grandmother wasn’t trying to cast the spell wrong but did it by accident? She might have misinterpreted the ingredients.”"
"Penny shook her head. “That…that is a spell for raising dead, not vampires.”
I nodded. “Vesuvius wanted to bring back someone he loved. He lost her, but by the time he finished creating the spell, he was dying. He chose to leave it hidden, but Evangeline found it. Realized that done incorrectly with the wrong kind of intent…well, you know the rest.”"
Nancy, the talking demon blade, was on the obnoxious side and though I felt some things were lacking compared to the other books I still enjoyed it. I'm kind of glad the series is finished. I feel like I really had to push myself through this one and probably wouldn't read the next book if there was one so I'm glad things were wrapped up nicely.
Spoilers
I'm not gonna lie. This last book really made me hate gran. Casting a love spell on Bree to force her and Alan together so her powers would be delayed is horrendous. And no one says it better than my man crash
"gods, she’d lived with him for twenty years, trying to make him love her. Trying to fix a marriage that had been broken from the very beginning. A piece of my heart broke for her, for the years lost on a love that never would have been, no matter what she did.'"
I don't care that she was trying to protect her from the shadows and bramble. She took away her choice and options and forced her to live in an abusive horrible relationship with a job she hates away from family in the name of "protection". There was nothing she could do after that to redeem herself in my eyes.
The rest of the story was pretty good. Bree's sacrifice, Alan's slight redemption, and the turn coat turning sides again (saw that one coming). I'm a little irked that all of this took place because a spell was translated incorrectly. Examples below:
"So maybe, just maybe, your grandmother wasn’t trying to cast the spell wrong but did it by accident? She might have misinterpreted the ingredients.”"
"Penny shook her head. “That…that is a spell for raising dead, not vampires.”
I nodded. “Vesuvius wanted to bring back someone he loved. He lost her, but by the time he finished creating the spell, he was dying. He chose to leave it hidden, but Evangeline found it. Realized that done incorrectly with the wrong kind of intent…well, you know the rest.”"
Nancy, the talking demon blade, was on the obnoxious side and though I felt some things were lacking compared to the other books I still enjoyed it. I'm kind of glad the series is finished. I feel like I really had to push myself through this one and probably wouldn't read the next book if there was one so I'm glad things were wrapped up nicely.
May 9, 2024
First let me start by saying I have loved each and every book in this series. Bree and Crash, Eric, Suzy, Feish, Gran and Robert each character is so well written.
The world building is fantastic, the story line grabs you from the first page and just pulls you in and has you unwilling to put this book down.
This is supposed to be the last book in this series, but some how I am hoping that it will not be or perhaps there will be a spinoff series for some of the other characters.
Remy is the bad guy you love to hate. Evangeline made for a truly wonderful antagonist. Her story line is tragic.
Robert everyone needs a friend like Robert. I would love for him to have his own book or series. He is the one that tugs at your heart and makes you laugh and cry.
Bree has been through so much and her heart is so pure, I love the strength she has and the fact that she can stand on her own, and will always stand for others. She is strong with a soft heart. And her ex Alan, I think it is nice that he finally got it, in the end, he finally sees her for the gift that she was.
In this book the surprises do not stop, just like the other books in the series. This author is a master at keeping her reader engaged throughout the book. I often catch myself saying things out loud when I am reading. I laugh, I cry, I curse and in the end I cheer and want more. That to me is the mark of a great author.
You can read just this book, but, I strongly suggest you start with the first one and take this journey with Bree and all of her crazy, sweet and heroic friends. You will not regret it one bit.
Each book is filled with action. Each book will make you laugh and perhaps cry a bit. And in the end if you are not in love with Robert, ( my favorite) and the rest of Bree's crew, well, I would be surprised.
The world building is fantastic, the story line grabs you from the first page and just pulls you in and has you unwilling to put this book down.
This is supposed to be the last book in this series, but some how I am hoping that it will not be or perhaps there will be a spinoff series for some of the other characters.
Remy is the bad guy you love to hate. Evangeline made for a truly wonderful antagonist. Her story line is tragic.
Robert everyone needs a friend like Robert. I would love for him to have his own book or series. He is the one that tugs at your heart and makes you laugh and cry.
Bree has been through so much and her heart is so pure, I love the strength she has and the fact that she can stand on her own, and will always stand for others. She is strong with a soft heart. And her ex Alan, I think it is nice that he finally got it, in the end, he finally sees her for the gift that she was.
In this book the surprises do not stop, just like the other books in the series. This author is a master at keeping her reader engaged throughout the book. I often catch myself saying things out loud when I am reading. I laugh, I cry, I curse and in the end I cheer and want more. That to me is the mark of a great author.
You can read just this book, but, I strongly suggest you start with the first one and take this journey with Bree and all of her crazy, sweet and heroic friends. You will not regret it one bit.
Each book is filled with action. Each book will make you laugh and perhaps cry a bit. And in the end if you are not in love with Robert, ( my favorite) and the rest of Bree's crew, well, I would be surprised.
May 7, 2024
Midlife Vampire Hunter is the final book in the Forty Proof series, and you are not going to want to miss out on this final installment to the series.
Brace yourself for page-turner drama that will literally pull you to the edge of your seat, and have you saying “Forget sleep!” Are you familiar with how you never know what you’re going to get when it comes to this author’s endings? Well, this book will be no exception. So go ahead and grab some tissues because you’re going to need them.
Bree is back and she’s in for the fight of her life. But this book brings a surprising change. Where the last book left off with Bree being taken...this book doesn’t pick up with her. Instead, we get Crash for half the book, and then the author will leave us in limbo concerning him, and whisk us away to follow Bree...and Alan. Don’t flip out. Yes, we all know Alan hasn’t been...that great, but this might be his time.
One thing is for sure...Midlife Vampire Hunter is packed with drama, demons, ghosts, secrets and surprises. The question that is going to be riding you will be….who is going to make it to the end? Who are we going to lose along the way? What heartbreak will we be forced to experience? LOL!
Will all the loose ends be tied up at the end of this book? The honest answer? No. But, while that may not be the “greatest” of news for some of our characters, it hints at potential spin-offs, and we are here for it! Here’s hoping! LOL!
This book, and honestly, the entire series, has been such a delight to read. We’re going to miss Bree, but she has earned some rest. But one thing is for sure...we’re going to be looking forward to what comes out of this author’s next urban fantasy world.
5 out of 5 stars
Brace yourself for page-turner drama that will literally pull you to the edge of your seat, and have you saying “Forget sleep!” Are you familiar with how you never know what you’re going to get when it comes to this author’s endings? Well, this book will be no exception. So go ahead and grab some tissues because you’re going to need them.
Bree is back and she’s in for the fight of her life. But this book brings a surprising change. Where the last book left off with Bree being taken...this book doesn’t pick up with her. Instead, we get Crash for half the book, and then the author will leave us in limbo concerning him, and whisk us away to follow Bree...and Alan. Don’t flip out. Yes, we all know Alan hasn’t been...that great, but this might be his time.
One thing is for sure...Midlife Vampire Hunter is packed with drama, demons, ghosts, secrets and surprises. The question that is going to be riding you will be….who is going to make it to the end? Who are we going to lose along the way? What heartbreak will we be forced to experience? LOL!
Will all the loose ends be tied up at the end of this book? The honest answer? No. But, while that may not be the “greatest” of news for some of our characters, it hints at potential spin-offs, and we are here for it! Here’s hoping! LOL!
This book, and honestly, the entire series, has been such a delight to read. We’re going to miss Bree, but she has earned some rest. But one thing is for sure...we’re going to be looking forward to what comes out of this author’s next urban fantasy world.
5 out of 5 stars
June 13, 2024
Ducker, Gawd & Jaysus, really? Aren’t we all adults here? Is this supposed to be cute?
Bree: “Everyone I ever loved will die if I don’t do what they want.” Correct me if I’m wrong but isn’t everyone in the world going to die once the spell is cast? Isn’t this a case of the lives of the many outweighing the lives of the few? (paraphrasing here)
I have mentioned a couple of times in other reviews that (for me) there were too many characters. I still find that to be true because Eammon, Winnifred, and Damian don’t ring a bell. I’m a little shaky on Corb also but I think he appeared in France (if Bree ever spent time there) and was a potential romantic interest. He did indicate at one point that he still loved her.
Bree and crew return to Savannah from the island apparently using the dark fae paths, which is just mentioned in passing. The paths were a big deal in earlier books. Crash is now the Dark Fae King. Won’t his duties conflict with Bree’s as a sentinel? What happened to his mother after the demon was killed? I seem to remember that Crash had one of the guards carry her off.
Bree collected Richart’s rings after his hands were severed, stuffed them in her bra and...? Ditto the two rings Crash forged and put in his pocket. I assume they’re wedding bands but weren’t brought forth here.
Although a lot happened I still felt there were plot points left unanswered. Louis and Remy are still on the loose. What exactly happened to Bramble?
I hope there will be future books featuring Robert since he is one of my favorite characters. Where did he take off to? Will we find out who he befriends next?
Bree: “Everyone I ever loved will die if I don’t do what they want.” Correct me if I’m wrong but isn’t everyone in the world going to die once the spell is cast? Isn’t this a case of the lives of the many outweighing the lives of the few? (paraphrasing here)
I have mentioned a couple of times in other reviews that (for me) there were too many characters. I still find that to be true because Eammon, Winnifred, and Damian don’t ring a bell. I’m a little shaky on Corb also but I think he appeared in France (if Bree ever spent time there) and was a potential romantic interest. He did indicate at one point that he still loved her.
Bree and crew return to Savannah from the island apparently using the dark fae paths, which is just mentioned in passing. The paths were a big deal in earlier books. Crash is now the Dark Fae King. Won’t his duties conflict with Bree’s as a sentinel? What happened to his mother after the demon was killed? I seem to remember that Crash had one of the guards carry her off.
Bree collected Richart’s rings after his hands were severed, stuffed them in her bra and...? Ditto the two rings Crash forged and put in his pocket. I assume they’re wedding bands but weren’t brought forth here.
Although a lot happened I still felt there were plot points left unanswered. Louis and Remy are still on the loose. What exactly happened to Bramble?
I hope there will be future books featuring Robert since he is one of my favorite characters. Where did he take off to? Will we find out who he befriends next?
May 9, 2024
I can’t believe this is the end of Bree’s story. This series has quickly become one of my favorites. It has it all – humor, found family, a bit of romance, and a story line that sucks you in and makes it hard to put down. Midlife Vampire Hunter starts off after Bree has been kidnapped by Robert’s wife, Evangeline. The books begins with Crash’s POV! We follow Crash’s journey to find where Bree has been taken and what he’s willing to go through to save her. *Swoon* The book does switch back to Bree’s POV. She finds herself trapped in a cage of Remy’s making. The spell Bree has been fighting to stop is now coming close to fruition. She needs to find a way to rescue herself and stop Evangeline from unleashing all h*ll. The one person around to help her isn’t a personal at all, but the ghost of her ex-husband. Things are going to get dicey, but that’s Bree’s M.O. I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say this has an ending fitting for Bree. It’s not a perfect happily ever after, but it’s perfect for Bree. She finds herself, grows into a confident woman, and discovers real love and friendship after 20 years of a loveless marriage with no one to rely on. This will be a series I will reread over the years anytime I find I need a good laugh and a feel good read.
June 5, 2024
real life lessons learned and shared with a huge dollop of fun!
I’m getting older. Than… I was. And the space between graduation and living life has a bigger distance now than it did 20 years ago. I don’t have the closest connection with my family, especially female relatives. But have managed to build my own family. I think that’s why I loved this series so much. Shannon shares the natural responses that life’s decisions bring- and paints them as neither good nor bad allowing the reader to flex their own intellectual muscles. At the same time fully immersing the reader in the context and understanding of the character values and motivations. How our intention doesn’t always equal the result, and that we need to decide whether it matters in the end when trying to live into our character and main goals in life. This series is like a gentle huge from your best friend this is a great example of what a great friend is), who loves you and shares all the best parts of the story with you. Or even if you don’t have one and are looking for a BFF it’s still so worth it. For all the women out there who grew up without sister/s and or Mama/s, you will enjoy the warmth this story will bring to your soul. Wishing you a warm tea with lots of whiskey in it!
I’m getting older. Than… I was. And the space between graduation and living life has a bigger distance now than it did 20 years ago. I don’t have the closest connection with my family, especially female relatives. But have managed to build my own family. I think that’s why I loved this series so much. Shannon shares the natural responses that life’s decisions bring- and paints them as neither good nor bad allowing the reader to flex their own intellectual muscles. At the same time fully immersing the reader in the context and understanding of the character values and motivations. How our intention doesn’t always equal the result, and that we need to decide whether it matters in the end when trying to live into our character and main goals in life. This series is like a gentle huge from your best friend this is a great example of what a great friend is), who loves you and shares all the best parts of the story with you. Or even if you don’t have one and are looking for a BFF it’s still so worth it. For all the women out there who grew up without sister/s and or Mama/s, you will enjoy the warmth this story will bring to your soul. Wishing you a warm tea with lots of whiskey in it!
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