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Welcome To Midlife Magic #2
It's Called Magic, Susan
She knows it's real... she just has to learn how to use it.
Before she blows someone else up.
Susan's neck-deep in trouble - the Songbird has been kidnapped, her vile mother is out for Susan's blood, and Connor is hunting some very powerful spark stones.
To save Audrina and the stones, Susan needs to take the Fae Company to dangerous places they've never gone before - namely, through TSA to get on an economy flight to Wisconsin.
Will Cress get through security will all her weapons? Will Cecil eat his body weight in cheese? Only time will tell.
It's Called Magic, Susan is book two in the fun, fast-paced and thrilling new paranormal women's fiction series Welcome To Midlife Magic, by bestselling urban fantasy author Lauretta Hignett.
Before she blows someone else up.
Susan's neck-deep in trouble - the Songbird has been kidnapped, her vile mother is out for Susan's blood, and Connor is hunting some very powerful spark stones.
To save Audrina and the stones, Susan needs to take the Fae Company to dangerous places they've never gone before - namely, through TSA to get on an economy flight to Wisconsin.
Will Cress get through security will all her weapons? Will Cecil eat his body weight in cheese? Only time will tell.
It's Called Magic, Susan is book two in the fun, fast-paced and thrilling new paranormal women's fiction series Welcome To Midlife Magic, by bestselling urban fantasy author Lauretta Hignett.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2024
709 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Lauretta Hignett
53 books474 followersA raving fangirl for all things paranormal, supernatural, supernormal and fantastical, Lauretta writes fun Urban Fantasy, PNR and Superhero adventures with a dash of sweet romance and humour.
She's a massive fan of Young and New Adult fiction, loves a plot twist, hates cliffhangers, and always keeps her readers on their toes.
When she's not writing, Lauretta enjoys fad diets, sunshine, her two little children, weird craft projects and massive amounts of dark chocolate
She's a massive fan of Young and New Adult fiction, loves a plot twist, hates cliffhangers, and always keeps her readers on their toes.
When she's not writing, Lauretta enjoys fad diets, sunshine, her two little children, weird craft projects and massive amounts of dark chocolate
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
December 17, 2024
***2.5 stars***
I wanted to like this more than I did. It's a fast read, with some fun silly narrative beats, but I found this book to be a little tedious.
Firstly, we're two books in, and while the FMC is a lot of big talk about handling all the people in her life that have fucked her over, she is zero action. As often as not, she freezes like a deer in headlights. I can give her some grace on that - she was gaslit for a stretch by an abusive ex, to the point that she believed she was crazy. He loaded her up with drugs and got her tossed in an asylum, with the help of the intern he was fucking and her lawyer (who he was also fucking). He's the scum of the earth. And his parents are as bad, if not worse. And while Susan knows what they did - that she was never crazy, that they gaslit and conned her to take all her money and home - when these fucking assholes continue to harass her, she just lets them. The other characters on her team want to beat the shit out of and/or kill them, and she's just like "let's call that plan B, but I'm going to do something much worse, I'm going to ruin their lives" ... and nothing ever happens. Loads of big talk, but she allows everyone - from the shitstains on the face of humanity (that would be her ex, the homewrecking whore intern, and his parents), to her shitty neighbor, to people at work (she doesn't handle her "nemesis", Donovan does), to the absolute garbage human beings that used to be her friends - to shit all over her at every encounter. Look, at MINIMUM, you can't let them talk to you that way. Use your siren power to make them punch themselves in the face every time they think something bad about you, and I promise they'll quit that shit. Or use your siren power to make them walk into traffic. I'm fine with anything, just do SOMETHING.
I'm not impressed with Team Good Guy much anymore either. They are almost comically ineffective (I say almost comically because I wish it was funny, but it isn't). Conner has so far outpaced them with his plans for world domination that they seem like the Three Stooges trying to find a solution. And they seem to lose every fight they get into, until Susan steps in and flings some Chosen powers around. How did they ever think they would do this? Were they set up to fail? Is Queen Momma secretly on her evil son's side, or what?
I was already feeling frustrated, but then in the epilogue
Susan fixates on the wrong things, and Donovan and Team seem inept. The combination is super frustrating, and I don't think I'll read onward. I'm stepping away, we'll see if I come back to it.
I wanted to like this more than I did. It's a fast read, with some fun silly narrative beats, but I found this book to be a little tedious.
Firstly, we're two books in, and while the FMC is a lot of big talk about handling all the people in her life that have fucked her over, she is zero action. As often as not, she freezes like a deer in headlights. I can give her some grace on that - she was gaslit for a stretch by an abusive ex, to the point that she believed she was crazy. He loaded her up with drugs and got her tossed in an asylum, with the help of the intern he was fucking and her lawyer (who he was also fucking). He's the scum of the earth. And his parents are as bad, if not worse. And while Susan knows what they did - that she was never crazy, that they gaslit and conned her to take all her money and home - when these fucking assholes continue to harass her, she just lets them. The other characters on her team want to beat the shit out of and/or kill them, and she's just like "let's call that plan B, but I'm going to do something much worse, I'm going to ruin their lives" ... and nothing ever happens. Loads of big talk, but she allows everyone - from the shitstains on the face of humanity (that would be her ex, the homewrecking whore intern, and his parents), to her shitty neighbor, to people at work (she doesn't handle her "nemesis", Donovan does), to the absolute garbage human beings that used to be her friends - to shit all over her at every encounter. Look, at MINIMUM, you can't let them talk to you that way. Use your siren power to make them punch themselves in the face every time they think something bad about you, and I promise they'll quit that shit. Or use your siren power to make them walk into traffic. I'm fine with anything, just do SOMETHING.
I'm not impressed with Team Good Guy much anymore either. They are almost comically ineffective (I say almost comically because I wish it was funny, but it isn't). Conner has so far outpaced them with his plans for world domination that they seem like the Three Stooges trying to find a solution. And they seem to lose every fight they get into, until Susan steps in and flings some Chosen powers around. How did they ever think they would do this? Were they set up to fail? Is Queen Momma secretly on her evil son's side, or what?
I was already feeling frustrated, but then in the epilogue
Susan fixates on the wrong things, and Donovan and Team seem inept. The combination is super frustrating, and I don't think I'll read onward. I'm stepping away, we'll see if I come back to it.
May 23, 2024
I just finished this, and I’m so angry and disappointed that it’s over! I just loved this second book in the series so much, and it was so seriously funny and well-written, I didn’t want it to end. In this latest, Susan is coming to grips with her new status and how her old life is still affecting her current one. Add to that, her friend has been kidnapped and she has to find her before something horrible happens. I said it above, and I’ll say it again, this book was laugh-out-loud funny, and the scene with the therapist had me in stitches. After that ending, the next book can’t come fast enough…what a revelation! How is this going to play out? Wonderful, engaging, hilariously funny, well-written urban fantasy. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
May 31, 2024
It's Called Magic, Susan by Lauretta Hignett
💛💛💛💛💛
These are not your normal midlife magic novels. Susan's life went all to heck a couple of years ago, landing her in a psych ward, broken and ruined.
In book one, Susan, You're the Chosen One, her eyes are opened, both to the fae world, and her own.
This is book 2 of 3, and Susan is fighting everyone; the big bad Devourer, her ex and his dreadful family, the US legal system, and of course a forbidden love. All with the help of her bear neighbor, her new fae friends, an inexperienced but well-meaning sentient house, and a totally extra duocorn with a hatred of spandex.
Turns out, all a fae really needs is a decent therapist.
ARC review, I'm so happy to get these books early!
💛💛💛💛💛
These are not your normal midlife magic novels. Susan's life went all to heck a couple of years ago, landing her in a psych ward, broken and ruined.
In book one, Susan, You're the Chosen One, her eyes are opened, both to the fae world, and her own.
This is book 2 of 3, and Susan is fighting everyone; the big bad Devourer, her ex and his dreadful family, the US legal system, and of course a forbidden love. All with the help of her bear neighbor, her new fae friends, an inexperienced but well-meaning sentient house, and a totally extra duocorn with a hatred of spandex.
Turns out, all a fae really needs is a decent therapist.
ARC review, I'm so happy to get these books early!
May 24, 2024
At the beginning of this book there’s a “cast of characters” and a “quick recap”, which I greatly appreciate because my memory sucks. No matter how much I love a book or character (and I REALLY loved the first book!), there’s always a lot I forget. I can usually remember bits as I get back into the groove, but I didn’t have to this time!
As for the actual book: This is quite a wild ride with berserkers, centaurs, a bunch of insults that made me literally laugh out loud, and so much more! I read this book super quickly, wishing there was more. I think I’m always going to wish for more with this crew!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I'm also buying this book because I love this author and need ALL the Susan I can get!
As for the actual book: This is quite a wild ride with berserkers, centaurs, a bunch of insults that made me literally laugh out loud, and so much more! I read this book super quickly, wishing there was more. I think I’m always going to wish for more with this crew!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I'm also buying this book because I love this author and need ALL the Susan I can get!
June 8, 2024
Hilarious!
Love this new series, Susan is a great character. She has the superpower of being a middle manager, and it's surprising how often that saves her bacon.
This entire book is worth reading just for the scene at Susan's therapist office and her Fae guardian having his head shrunk. Who'd think that a tough Fae warrior prince would have mommy issues?
Everything is funny and exciting in this new series. I love Susan, her four Fae guardians, her quirky ex-family, her sentient house, and of course her duocorn personal assistant. He is a lot in the best possible way.
Basically if you want a fun UF romp, you can't beat this! Don't expect to put it down, and make sure it's somewhere you won't get stares for laughing out loud. Pick it up today!
Love this new series, Susan is a great character. She has the superpower of being a middle manager, and it's surprising how often that saves her bacon.
This entire book is worth reading just for the scene at Susan's therapist office and her Fae guardian having his head shrunk. Who'd think that a tough Fae warrior prince would have mommy issues?
Everything is funny and exciting in this new series. I love Susan, her four Fae guardians, her quirky ex-family, her sentient house, and of course her duocorn personal assistant. He is a lot in the best possible way.
Basically if you want a fun UF romp, you can't beat this! Don't expect to put it down, and make sure it's somewhere you won't get stares for laughing out loud. Pick it up today!
May 31, 2024
I really enjoyed the second book in this series. Susan‘s character is continuing to develop well. Along with all of the supporting characters. Really enjoyed the humor in these books, is where was the serious discussions. I like how Susan is learning to use her powers, and more about the different stones that she has to close. I also enjoyed the mystery about where they took her friend. And also the continuing battle against her ex-husband. I can’t wait to see where that goes. That tells me he’s a bit more sinister than what we may think.
January 7, 2025
Another quality instalment by a reliably engaging author. Her stories trip along smoothly and enjoyably, as Susan overcomes her internal doubts to be a thoroughly modern heroine who kicks butt, after a thorough attempt at mediation and problem solving before rousing genuine laughs…
June 29, 2024
So much going on here! Just when Susan starts to get a handle on things more curve balls coming flying her way. We get more back story on the other characters and Connor has oozed his way in deeper and cast doubt on Susan.
September 25, 2024
Loved It's Called Magic as much as the first book. Susan is better realizing magic is part of her life.
The good and the bad. The bad seems to be really bad you wonder what could be next. The Devouver is detrmined - ready to see what happens in the next book. Lauetta keeps us on the edge of our seats!
The good and the bad. The bad seems to be really bad you wonder what could be next. The Devouver is detrmined - ready to see what happens in the next book. Lauetta keeps us on the edge of our seats!
June 1, 2024
I have never hated on characters so hard! I think it’s because Vincent and his horde are so horribly mundanely human nasty. I really wish Cress was allowed to get stabby.
The second installment of Susan’s story is just a good and quirky as the first! If you enjoyed the first book, this one does not leave you hanging.
Not only are there some brilliant character development one word - therapy. But also some really great plots, unexpected turns and characters you really really really love to hate.
Lauretta has honestly worked magic with this series. The fact that the big bad berserkers quote Buffy and Susan shot-put a troll.. brilliant. The book is such a whimsical mix of all the good fantasy tropes, dressed in their Sunday best, horrible mundane human characters throwing trauma and shade and a cracking good storyline. The fact she has two of her most OP characters going to therapy? Icing on the cake.
Like all of her books, 100% recommend reading.
The second installment of Susan’s story is just a good and quirky as the first! If you enjoyed the first book, this one does not leave you hanging.
Not only are there some brilliant character development one word - therapy. But also some really great plots, unexpected turns and characters you really really really love to hate.
Lauretta has honestly worked magic with this series. The fact that the big bad berserkers quote Buffy and Susan shot-put a troll.. brilliant. The book is such a whimsical mix of all the good fantasy tropes, dressed in their Sunday best, horrible mundane human characters throwing trauma and shade and a cracking good storyline. The fact she has two of her most OP characters going to therapy? Icing on the cake.
Like all of her books, 100% recommend reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2024
I honestly couldn't wait to get back to this series and Susan! The first book in the series was a delight a second! A humourous delight! If you wanna know why, you REALLY need to read these books! I can only applaud, LOUDLY, the imaginative Einsteinian prowess of Ms Hatchell's, as Einstein himself once declared, "Imagination encircles the world", which Lauretta has down to a fine art, let me tell you why...
When confronted by characters the likes I've never met before, when confronted by a Cecil, primarily in the guise of a snarky, foul mouthed unicorn, when confronted by a Vivian, who's actually a sentient house with an attitude, when confronted by storytelling that teases every ioto of your psyche, when you fall headfirst into a plot so cleverly forged, you lose yourself, when confronted by exceptional prose that's quick, unexpected and very vivid, well, THAT confirms Einstein's statement, imagination IS the driver here and what an imagination! I don't think I'll ever be able to see white pants and a red top as mere clothing... never ever again...evocative images such as this one is just an example of WHY you need to read this book! Of course, another reason would be the human and Fae and shifter and all manner of creatures aspect which is a thrill a minute!
As if all the shizer Susan has gone through, is going through, having to endure, having to work through, even an imminent law suit is looming, is not enough, she's landed herself in quicksand, she's being sucked under, one glimpse at a time, one touch at a time, all the while flailing desperately trying to extract herself, and failing miserably. I couldn't get enough of the sexual tension that was literally screaming like a banshee at Donovan and Susan. I love love love Susan! Cheated on, betrayed, incarcerated, flagged a nut case, is anything but! I loved seeing Susan claw her way out of the pit she's sunken into and rise above it all! Boy does she shine! As bright as any star in a dark sky, embracing her newfound power and strength, now that she realises it's not her hallucinations. And thought she is slowly "coming into her powers", it's her brilliant analytical mind that puts all the pieces together. I love how she challenges herself and all those around her, I mean, her reasoning, her compassion and understanding serve her way better than fists and brawls. Her confidence takes hold, one step at a time and she emerges stronger, tougher, more resolute, and boy do I love it! I particularly loved when Martina makes an appearance, a definite yell out moment of "YES!!!"
Donovan is hilarious, ok, he's ultra hot AND he's a prince, but seeing him try to get to grips with what therapy, well heck, hilarious! He's Susan's self professed protector, a tad overprotective but hey, he's trying to keep her out of harm, I get it, his evil twin, Connor, wants to harm Susan, oh and Connor wants world domination.... And he's stubborn, his way of protecting Susan is to keep mum on a prophecy that she's supposedly very much linked to! But finding Audrina and saving her is way more important to Susan than some prophecy, for now...The lead on finding Audrina leads them to Berserkers and Centaurs and oh so many challenges! I couldn't help but giggle at how Susan handles it all, the confrontations AND her fledgling magic! Although I wouldn't exactly say Susan handles everything well, take the battle hungry Cress, Susan is at a loss with her, not knowing what to do except to appease her, if she can...
As in the previous book in this series, I had a smile plastered on my face from start to finish, with a few "oh no!" moments peppered in, this book is utterly delightful! A strong plot, spanning several realms, with a pace that is just right, with characters you want to befiend, with action that's realistically spun, with a burgeoning romance, ticks every single box! I can't, for the life of me hope to say any one of these characters is my favourite, simply because they are ALL my favourite! This author's supreme talent, this author's supreme storytelling, this author's supreme ability to exploit every word, every gesture to perfection, fills me with joy, with laughter and a desperate need to find out what's next. If you haven't yet started reading this series, well heck, what ARE you waiting for? It doesn't get much better than this!
March 28, 2025
Always a Novel Twist
There's just something about these books. They take the familiar tropes and just tweak them in an entirely fun new direction!
I wasn't even halfway through the 1st chapter before I laughed out loud for the first time!
Susan doesn't get a fairy godmother; she has to deal with the over-the-top, camp, b¡tchy, downright difficult beast that is her 'duocorn' personal fashion-stylist/decorator/thief/mixologist/chef/etc.
Susan gets herself involved with your typical sexy, tall-dark-and-devastating, broody, warrior fae prince; and she gets him not just into therapy, but enamoured of it!
Susan's character is so grounded, and traumatised, by her mundane, (pre-magic,) life that she feels quite real - though I could certainly do with fewer people calling a mid-40s woman a "dried up old hag!" Given the social strata setting of the story, the drama, and the reasons given for the (original) alleged 'crime,' it is a term specifically thrown around to cause maximum pain.
She may be "the Chosen One," and may be learning about her magic on the fly, but the true drama comes from her attempts to continually try and rebuild herself. She falls, and fails, and contuinues to discover and realise that her past, as deeply traumatic as it was, was just the tip of a very ugly iceberg, and she *still* pulls her Self back together, and tries her best to succeed in the quest she's now fully invested in.
She continually makes errors in judgement, (or finds new areas were she has been fooled &/or betrayed,) that faculty being one of the most damaged by her ordeals, but doesn't wallow in self-pity. She adjusts to the, sometimes brutal - sometimes blindingly obvious from book 1 - reality, takes the new information on board, reassesses, and moves forward.
She has a great deal of courage. Whether physically putting herself in harm's way to protect or defend others, or facing down those who have wronged and hurt her, and continue to try and do so.
Her special talent in figuring people out, what makes them tick, what she can do for them, or give them to help them arrive at a mutually beneficial outcome; her "managerial skills," are more important that her magical abilities or bloodlines. She calls it 'management,' but it requires a compassion and empathy for which she doesn't give herself enough credit.
Her hunky fae prince and his band are prepared to battle, and torture if necessary, some of the potential adversaries of the differents species they must deal with.
Susan's instincts are to try and figure out what's *behind* the bluster, and strangeness. It is that same instinct, to take a problem apart, to try and figure out what other people need to come to the table, that actually make for the funniest scenes in these books.
This series is not like other books, and I am thoroughly enjoying the ride!
5☆ = Loved/Highly Recommend
4☆ = Really Enjoyed
3☆ = Good, Solid, Read
2☆ = Had Potential, or At Least A Decent Premise AND Some Difficult-To-Overlook-Flaws
1☆ = Why?
There's just something about these books. They take the familiar tropes and just tweak them in an entirely fun new direction!
I wasn't even halfway through the 1st chapter before I laughed out loud for the first time!
Susan doesn't get a fairy godmother; she has to deal with the over-the-top, camp, b¡tchy, downright difficult beast that is her 'duocorn' personal fashion-stylist/decorator/thief/mixologist/chef/etc.
Susan gets herself involved with your typical sexy, tall-dark-and-devastating, broody, warrior fae prince; and she gets him not just into therapy, but enamoured of it!
Susan's character is so grounded, and traumatised, by her mundane, (pre-magic,) life that she feels quite real - though I could certainly do with fewer people calling a mid-40s woman a "dried up old hag!" Given the social strata setting of the story, the drama, and the reasons given for the (original) alleged 'crime,' it is a term specifically thrown around to cause maximum pain.
She may be "the Chosen One," and may be learning about her magic on the fly, but the true drama comes from her attempts to continually try and rebuild herself. She falls, and fails, and contuinues to discover and realise that her past, as deeply traumatic as it was, was just the tip of a very ugly iceberg, and she *still* pulls her Self back together, and tries her best to succeed in the quest she's now fully invested in.
She continually makes errors in judgement, (or finds new areas were she has been fooled &/or betrayed,) that faculty being one of the most damaged by her ordeals, but doesn't wallow in self-pity. She adjusts to the, sometimes brutal - sometimes blindingly obvious from book 1 - reality, takes the new information on board, reassesses, and moves forward.
She has a great deal of courage. Whether physically putting herself in harm's way to protect or defend others, or facing down those who have wronged and hurt her, and continue to try and do so.
Her special talent in figuring people out, what makes them tick, what she can do for them, or give them to help them arrive at a mutually beneficial outcome; her "managerial skills," are more important that her magical abilities or bloodlines. She calls it 'management,' but it requires a compassion and empathy for which she doesn't give herself enough credit.
Her hunky fae prince and his band are prepared to battle, and torture if necessary, some of the potential adversaries of the differents species they must deal with.
Susan's instincts are to try and figure out what's *behind* the bluster, and strangeness. It is that same instinct, to take a problem apart, to try and figure out what other people need to come to the table, that actually make for the funniest scenes in these books.
This series is not like other books, and I am thoroughly enjoying the ride!
5☆ = Loved/Highly Recommend
4☆ = Really Enjoyed
3☆ = Good, Solid, Read
2☆ = Had Potential, or At Least A Decent Premise AND Some Difficult-To-Overlook-Flaws
1☆ = Why?
September 3, 2024
Susan has a lot on her mind, she’s realizing that everything that happened to her was partially because of her magic and partially because she trusted the wrong people in her life who were all against her.
She is a middle-aged, organized, people and objective manager. If she can talk someone into doing or not doing something she’s in her element. Aided by an interesting group of allies/friend she is out to stop the Devourer from destroying everything and taking over all the realms.
Cecil, the duocorn, is a smart-ass, fashion obsessed, smoking, drinking, cooking “aide”. Violet is a sentient house who just wants to please Susan, Bart the bear shifter who is so sweet. And then there are the Fae – Nate and Eryk are warriors, Cress is a princess who is an awesome warrior who keeps making passes at Susan. Prince Donovan is also a warrior but he is also the heir to the Fae realm and the ultimate love interest.
This book has lots of action, interesting supernatural creatures, great story, wonderful interactions between the characters. There are so many things happening between her quest and trying not to be incarcerated again. Everything works well together.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable series, a quick, easy read that I would recommend.
She is a middle-aged, organized, people and objective manager. If she can talk someone into doing or not doing something she’s in her element. Aided by an interesting group of allies/friend she is out to stop the Devourer from destroying everything and taking over all the realms.
Cecil, the duocorn, is a smart-ass, fashion obsessed, smoking, drinking, cooking “aide”. Violet is a sentient house who just wants to please Susan, Bart the bear shifter who is so sweet. And then there are the Fae – Nate and Eryk are warriors, Cress is a princess who is an awesome warrior who keeps making passes at Susan. Prince Donovan is also a warrior but he is also the heir to the Fae realm and the ultimate love interest.
This book has lots of action, interesting supernatural creatures, great story, wonderful interactions between the characters. There are so many things happening between her quest and trying not to be incarcerated again. Everything works well together.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable series, a quick, easy read that I would recommend.
May 26, 2024
Another absolutely amazing book from Lauretta!!! This one picks up right where the first one ended. Audrina, Susan’s teenage neighbor, has been abducted by Berserkers. And not only that, Audrina’s mom believes Susan has kidnapped her. So off the go to save Audrina. And what a better way to begin than trying to get all 4 of the other worlders through an airport!! Especially Cress!
So much happens in this book! We meet berserkers and centaurs, Susan starts to realize that “old Susan” isn’t as great as she thought and she finally (finally) comes to a major realization! (I love Susan, but I swear I wanted to knock some sense into her. Even though Cress had me in stitches along the way!)
I absolutely love Cecil! He has to be my second favorite side character (only 2nd to Dwayne. Honestly, who can beat Dwayne?!) He is such a sasshole and who knew he would have it in him to help save the day! (Oh what a way it was!).
After the epilogue, I can’t wait to see where this story goes! I’m rooting for Vincent and his family to get exactly what they deserve, but want to see how far back this all goes as well!
So much happens in this book! We meet berserkers and centaurs, Susan starts to realize that “old Susan” isn’t as great as she thought and she finally (finally) comes to a major realization! (I love Susan, but I swear I wanted to knock some sense into her. Even though Cress had me in stitches along the way!)
I absolutely love Cecil! He has to be my second favorite side character (only 2nd to Dwayne. Honestly, who can beat Dwayne?!) He is such a sasshole and who knew he would have it in him to help save the day! (Oh what a way it was!).
After the epilogue, I can’t wait to see where this story goes! I’m rooting for Vincent and his family to get exactly what they deserve, but want to see how far back this all goes as well!
July 29, 2025
3,5
The story continues. The prophecy starts to unravel. The funs are still had.
Susan, the Chosen One, continues her quest to close all the spark stones that she can lay her hands onto. Except now she also has a young friend that needs saving from all sorts of weird and violent creatures, who might gut her whenever they feel like it.
Featuring a very fruitful therapy session, a bodybuilding world championship, a flight to and from Wisconsin and the first ever magical political debate, this book manages to maintain the fun standard of the first, even if a little subdued due to the novelty having worn off.
At times, I found the jokes too vulgar for my taste, often freely using curse words for nothing or just being plain tasteless, especially with the character of Cecil, who often makes it his only notable character quirk the art of boorish conversation.
I will surely continue the story because this book still made me chuckle several times and the plot is convincing, although I suspect that it will continue its descent into seriousness and (hopefully not) romantasy subplots.
Keep you posted, willing or not
The story continues. The prophecy starts to unravel. The funs are still had.
Susan, the Chosen One, continues her quest to close all the spark stones that she can lay her hands onto. Except now she also has a young friend that needs saving from all sorts of weird and violent creatures, who might gut her whenever they feel like it.
Featuring a very fruitful therapy session, a bodybuilding world championship, a flight to and from Wisconsin and the first ever magical political debate, this book manages to maintain the fun standard of the first, even if a little subdued due to the novelty having worn off.
At times, I found the jokes too vulgar for my taste, often freely using curse words for nothing or just being plain tasteless, especially with the character of Cecil, who often makes it his only notable character quirk the art of boorish conversation.
I will surely continue the story because this book still made me chuckle several times and the plot is convincing, although I suspect that it will continue its descent into seriousness and (hopefully not) romantasy subplots.
Keep you posted, willing or not
June 6, 2024
Title: It's called magic, Susan (Welcome to midlife magic book two)
Author: Lauretta Hignett
Rating: 4/5*
Pages: 260
Also available on @amazonkindle - kindle unlimited
Another funny quick read by @laurettahignett
Absolutely brilliant.
The book is very lightheaded and funny. Having romance, suspension a sassy talking unicorn. It also covers subjects like sexism, gaslighting, manipulation, control and expectations.
I really did enjoy it.
However, the epilogue did leave me a bit confused and it did end on another cliffhanger, meaning I've got to wait forever until the next one!!! :(
Have you read this book?
Will you give it a go?
What's your favourite urban fantasy book at the moment?
*Note from me: I never want to dim people's shine. It's brave for the author to put themselves out there in the public eye. Books/stories are personal preferences. What might be my cup of tea may not be yours. And vice Versa! Keep creating!
Author: Lauretta Hignett
Rating: 4/5*
Pages: 260
Also available on @amazonkindle - kindle unlimited
Another funny quick read by @laurettahignett
Absolutely brilliant.
The book is very lightheaded and funny. Having romance, suspension a sassy talking unicorn. It also covers subjects like sexism, gaslighting, manipulation, control and expectations.
I really did enjoy it.
However, the epilogue did leave me a bit confused and it did end on another cliffhanger, meaning I've got to wait forever until the next one!!! :(
Have you read this book?
Will you give it a go?
What's your favourite urban fantasy book at the moment?
*Note from me: I never want to dim people's shine. It's brave for the author to put themselves out there in the public eye. Books/stories are personal preferences. What might be my cup of tea may not be yours. And vice Versa! Keep creating!
July 19, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up for GR. I gotta say, these books are greater than the sum of their parts. This one definitely built on the foundation of Book 2 (probably/definitely should have been a single book, honestly), and the pay off we get with Susan finally coming into her power is so cathartic. It’s like that scene in Double Jeopardy when Ashley Judd realized that she was actually innocent and vows revenge.
What I’m enjoying most though is the subversion of the Chosen One tropes. Susan is in her forties, she uses diplomacy when she can, resorting to words and logic when everyone and every situation appears to call for violence.
I’m excited to see what Book 3 brings, especially now that Susan finally figured out that Cress was Donovan’s sister. Like, sheesh girl, took you long enough.
CW/TW: gaslighting, PTSD, some terrible parents, genre typical violence, misogyny, ageism, bullying (especially concerning FMC’s infertility).
0 🌶
14+
What I’m enjoying most though is the subversion of the Chosen One tropes. Susan is in her forties, she uses diplomacy when she can, resorting to words and logic when everyone and every situation appears to call for violence.
I’m excited to see what Book 3 brings, especially now that Susan finally figured out that Cress was Donovan’s sister. Like, sheesh girl, took you long enough.
CW/TW: gaslighting, PTSD, some terrible parents, genre typical violence, misogyny, ageism, bullying (especially concerning FMC’s infertility).
0 🌶
14+
November 24, 2024
4.5 stars
Susan is gradually starting to come to grips with the magical beings invading her life. Not only that but she is absorbing smidgens of magic from each spark stone she closes. Meanwhile, Connor is infiltrating various realms and devouring their stones in his quest to become king of Crystal Castle. He deceives others into believing he is the rightful heir to the throne.
Her ex in-laws and Audrina’s mother are gunning for her and manipulating the law in their favor. Susan’s eyes are opened to the duplicity of those she had trusted in the past. She discovers even her attorney had been scheming behind her back and fires her in favor of the solicitor that handles the magic community’s legal matters.
She finally discovers that Cress is Donovan’s younger sister, not his fiancée and his bumbling attempts at wooing her are brought to light. The epilogue reveals that her ex in-laws are even more evil than what has been revealed so far.
Susan is gradually starting to come to grips with the magical beings invading her life. Not only that but she is absorbing smidgens of magic from each spark stone she closes. Meanwhile, Connor is infiltrating various realms and devouring their stones in his quest to become king of Crystal Castle. He deceives others into believing he is the rightful heir to the throne.
Her ex in-laws and Audrina’s mother are gunning for her and manipulating the law in their favor. Susan’s eyes are opened to the duplicity of those she had trusted in the past. She discovers even her attorney had been scheming behind her back and fires her in favor of the solicitor that handles the magic community’s legal matters.
She finally discovers that Cress is Donovan’s younger sister, not his fiancée and his bumbling attempts at wooing her are brought to light. The epilogue reveals that her ex in-laws are even more evil than what has been revealed so far.
May 23, 2024
This is the second book in the Welcome to Midlife Magic series and it's exceptional! I love this series! Susan has accepted that magic is real and that she has it but knowing when and what to do with it is getting more complicated. Cecil is still screamingly funny in all his incarnations and Cress is getting a little too high handed. Literally. Everything is heating up for poor dear Susan as she tries to keep moving faster to rectify all of the problems she thinks are hers to solve. Donovan is still delicious and we get more background about him. The pace is quick and hilarious. Lauretta Hignett creates the glittering world of the entitled lives of snobby rich people along with the mundane workings of middle management. Reading this series is so much fun! I'm having a blast with Susan and her colorful crew.
June 1, 2024
The magic continues!
Now that Susan has figured out she’s not actually criminally insane, she starts to figure out how many other things her brain had tricked her into believing for years, and has to come to terms with how many times she was wrong, which is a blow to a woman who prided herself on her competence.
But as she starts to understand her magic better, she’s able to make good choices, right choices, and her confidence is starting to return. Prince Donavan notices too, and finds his long-standing walls beginning to crumble.
And the more Susan gets to know the Prince, the more she realizes he is much deeper than the facade he puts on about duty and obedience.
The team faces new challenges as they travel across the country and back to rescue the Songbird.
I am loving this series and really looking forward to the next installment.
Now that Susan has figured out she’s not actually criminally insane, she starts to figure out how many other things her brain had tricked her into believing for years, and has to come to terms with how many times she was wrong, which is a blow to a woman who prided herself on her competence.
But as she starts to understand her magic better, she’s able to make good choices, right choices, and her confidence is starting to return. Prince Donavan notices too, and finds his long-standing walls beginning to crumble.
And the more Susan gets to know the Prince, the more she realizes he is much deeper than the facade he puts on about duty and obedience.
The team faces new challenges as they travel across the country and back to rescue the Songbird.
I am loving this series and really looking forward to the next installment.
January 10, 2025
I read this one immediately after the first - in fact I read all four over about a 12 hour period. I really loved the first one, and the second one is good too but in terms of plot, the pacing is all over the place. It felt, with the amount that I was reading, more than a few days should have taken place, so it's not at all a slow burn, if that's what you're looking for. Starting in this book, there's a good bit of - well, I don't want to call it preaching, but that's what it felt like - for average upper-class social-liberal white feminism. Which is fine - I agreed with the vast majority of the messaging - but it was more that it was not at all subtle, lol.
What kept me ravenous for more and more and more were the characters and the super fun, urban fantasy of it all. I really can't recommend the characters enough or the humor!
What kept me ravenous for more and more and more were the characters and the super fun, urban fantasy of it all. I really can't recommend the characters enough or the humor!
November 20, 2025
Susan's life really went to hell in a hand basket or she was just a basket case. She's trying to get her life back after being institutionalized by her now ex-husband. She's still in love with him, but he's got a pregnant fiancée and a restraining order. She thinks she's really gone around the bend when she runs into four extremely buff and good looking people on the roof of her apartment building.
The by-play between what others are saying to her and what Susan says to herself (sometimes out loud) are pretty funny and a bit pathetic. It takes a while for the magic to really appear and when it does Susan is in denial; which makes for some entertaining scenes. This book combines some really hard situations mixed with lighthearted moments.
The by-play between what others are saying to her and what Susan says to herself (sometimes out loud) are pretty funny and a bit pathetic. It takes a while for the magic to really appear and when it does Susan is in denial; which makes for some entertaining scenes. This book combines some really hard situations mixed with lighthearted moments.
June 2, 2024
too many discriminatory themes.
I liked how Susan regained her confidence. I also enjoyed how she used her intelligence to solve problems. The flow of the story was good and it was an easy book to read but.... I did not like the white men racist stereotypes and tradition hate. If you are into believing white men are misogynistic and monarchies are evil war mongering institutions, you will probably like this story. I believe hate comes in many forms and is not confined to one race or sex so I will pass on reading any further. There were just too many discriminatory stereotypes in this story for me to enjoy.
I liked how Susan regained her confidence. I also enjoyed how she used her intelligence to solve problems. The flow of the story was good and it was an easy book to read but.... I did not like the white men racist stereotypes and tradition hate. If you are into believing white men are misogynistic and monarchies are evil war mongering institutions, you will probably like this story. I believe hate comes in many forms and is not confined to one race or sex so I will pass on reading any further. There were just too many discriminatory stereotypes in this story for me to enjoy.
June 4, 2024
entertaining paranormal women’s fiction urban fantasy series
This is an entertaining paranormal women’s fiction/urban fantasy series. The fun cast of characters and an entertaining storyline. A woman in her 40s struggling to get by after disastrous relationship and other issues which you will read about in book one. Is working a crappy job in a call center with a crappy boss And paying half her money to her ex then one day something happens. She finds out that she is the chosen one. A woman that has the bloodlines of every supernatural creature out there. She is part of a prophecy and her adventure begins. This is booked to as that adventure continues. Read on and enjoy.
This is an entertaining paranormal women’s fiction/urban fantasy series. The fun cast of characters and an entertaining storyline. A woman in her 40s struggling to get by after disastrous relationship and other issues which you will read about in book one. Is working a crappy job in a call center with a crappy boss And paying half her money to her ex then one day something happens. She finds out that she is the chosen one. A woman that has the bloodlines of every supernatural creature out there. She is part of a prophecy and her adventure begins. This is booked to as that adventure continues. Read on and enjoy.
August 20, 2024
Really like the “Susan” series
I have read 2 books in the series and am really enjoying it. It’s a storyline about a middle-age woman whose life has gone to hell, and she’s trying to rebuild it when she crosses paths with the magical world. It has a likable, middle-aged female lead trying to rebuild her life after horrific meltdown. Susan’s back story is complex enough to add depth to the character and well paced in its reveal. It has engaging characters , a good amount of absurdity, well written snark, and interesting villains in a decent storyline. Best scene… Fey Prince meets the therapist.
I have read 2 books in the series and am really enjoying it. It’s a storyline about a middle-age woman whose life has gone to hell, and she’s trying to rebuild it when she crosses paths with the magical world. It has a likable, middle-aged female lead trying to rebuild her life after horrific meltdown. Susan’s back story is complex enough to add depth to the character and well paced in its reveal. It has engaging characters , a good amount of absurdity, well written snark, and interesting villains in a decent storyline. Best scene… Fey Prince meets the therapist.
September 9, 2024
I was so worried that this book was going to have a sophomore slump. I’m SO happy this book did not let me down at all!
I loved how this book explored healing from making mistakes and being wrong, that those things are ok, but take responsibility for them and fix them. It was also both hilarious and beautiful to see her bring in the idea of therapy, and have the fae go to a therapist! It could’ve been ridiculous, But Hignett pulled it off masterfully.
I loved the slow burn, and the various conflicts (including the intentional jealousy inducing flirting).
Again, this book had me cackling and obsessively turning every page to see what would happen next. Starting the third one tonight!
I loved how this book explored healing from making mistakes and being wrong, that those things are ok, but take responsibility for them and fix them. It was also both hilarious and beautiful to see her bring in the idea of therapy, and have the fae go to a therapist! It could’ve been ridiculous, But Hignett pulled it off masterfully.
I loved the slow burn, and the various conflicts (including the intentional jealousy inducing flirting).
Again, this book had me cackling and obsessively turning every page to see what would happen next. Starting the third one tonight!
September 12, 2024
fire
Susan is back and she’s on fire. She “burning” for our love interest, having finally mostly gotten over her ex husband. She’s also burning to find Audrina, the teenage runaway neighbor who was then kidnapped by Berserkers. Along the way she deals with betrayal, misunderstandings, and creatures from other realms. Her ex and his cadre are still out to make her life hell, while the Devourer plans to send her there…
For as fast-paced as this book was, I look back and I’m like “but nothing really happened” which is a weird feeling for me. I’ll probably take a little break before continuing the series.
Susan is back and she’s on fire. She “burning” for our love interest, having finally mostly gotten over her ex husband. She’s also burning to find Audrina, the teenage runaway neighbor who was then kidnapped by Berserkers. Along the way she deals with betrayal, misunderstandings, and creatures from other realms. Her ex and his cadre are still out to make her life hell, while the Devourer plans to send her there…
For as fast-paced as this book was, I look back and I’m like “but nothing really happened” which is a weird feeling for me. I’ll probably take a little break before continuing the series.
May 24, 2024
This is the second book and you see Susan embracing her new life, friends and abilities. It’s so funny. I don’t often laugh out loud when I’m reading even if it’s hilarious but the description of Jessica’s outfit in Chapter 2 caught me off guard. I’ll leave you that little beauty to discover for yourself.
There’s just so much good stuff happening. Using her new powers, finding her confidence again, a burgeoning romance that she completely considers to be one-sided. Cecil, the duocorn, is super sassy and makes for some very entertaining interactions.
Read the series, you won’t regret it.
There’s just so much good stuff happening. Using her new powers, finding her confidence again, a burgeoning romance that she completely considers to be one-sided. Cecil, the duocorn, is super sassy and makes for some very entertaining interactions.
Read the series, you won’t regret it.
May 26, 2024
It’s Called Magic Susan (Welcome to Midlife Magic book 2) by Lauretta Hignett is a 5 ⭐️ read.
Susan is on a journey of discovery whilst she’s trying to save the magical realms for Connor, she figures out a lot about her life until now and it’s making her stronger than ever. Susan also has a major crush on Donovan and is trying to hide her feelings. I’m really enjoying this series so far, it’s great to read about a heroine who is close in age to me. I’m so glad I discovered this author she is definitely one of my favourites.
Susan is on a journey of discovery whilst she’s trying to save the magical realms for Connor, she figures out a lot about her life until now and it’s making her stronger than ever. Susan also has a major crush on Donovan and is trying to hide her feelings. I’m really enjoying this series so far, it’s great to read about a heroine who is close in age to me. I’m so glad I discovered this author she is definitely one of my favourites.
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