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Magical Midlife Death #8
Foolish and Dead at Forty
An attack. A lost daughter. A war.
After Jana's attack leaves her fate uncertain, Rene and I must broker a peace treaty with the forest lycans to ensure her safety. But the source of the lycan rogues remains a mystery, and the new warlock security force wants to ensure humanity's survival by killing them all.
After I am attacked by Dimitri's rogue vampires, we begin to suspect that there is more to the Lycan conspiracy and we go searching for the source. But when our true enemy is revealed, it puts everyone alive in danger and a link to Rene's transformation is exposed.
Can I nurture Rene's ongoing mutation into something controlable, or am I just exchanging one monster for another?
Find out what prowls the shadows of Black Blossom County by reading Foolish and Dead at Forty, the new Paranormal Women's Fiction series listeners are comparing to Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, and Victoria Danann.
One click to continue this undead Magical Midlife adventure now!
After Jana's attack leaves her fate uncertain, Rene and I must broker a peace treaty with the forest lycans to ensure her safety. But the source of the lycan rogues remains a mystery, and the new warlock security force wants to ensure humanity's survival by killing them all.
After I am attacked by Dimitri's rogue vampires, we begin to suspect that there is more to the Lycan conspiracy and we go searching for the source. But when our true enemy is revealed, it puts everyone alive in danger and a link to Rene's transformation is exposed.
Can I nurture Rene's ongoing mutation into something controlable, or am I just exchanging one monster for another?
Find out what prowls the shadows of Black Blossom County by reading Foolish and Dead at Forty, the new Paranormal Women's Fiction series listeners are comparing to Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, and Victoria Danann.
One click to continue this undead Magical Midlife adventure now!
- GenresParanormal
6 pages, Audible Audio
Published March 4, 2025
About the author
Tia Didmon
154 books851 followersTia Didmon is a USA Today bestselling author of Fantasy, PNR and PWF romance. When Tia isn't busy writing about sexy shifters and dreamy demons, she spends her time binge-watching The Order and reruns of The Vampire Diaries, cooking with her daughter, and serving her cat. Her love of writing stems from a self-diagnosed book addiction.
Subscribe to Tia's newsletter at tiadidmon.com for a free book and start your journey through Tia's supernatural world today!
Subscribe to Tia's newsletter at tiadidmon.com for a free book and start your journey through Tia's supernatural world today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 18, 2025
This is book eight of the Magical Midlife Death and Raven’s daughter Jana has been bitten by a rogue lycan in an attack in her father’s Club Spice. Most lycan bites lead to death and the only hope of Jana surviving is for her to receive blood from Lucian, the lycan pack alpha’s son, but his father, Culgan won’t allow it. He had sent Lucian to meet with Rene, the vampire overseer, but giving blood to the daughter of the overseer’s bride would leave Lucian responsible if she died. Culgan agrees to accept Jana into his pack, but that will leave Raven and Isra having to follow their laws and pack rules if they are ever to see their daughter again. Raven knows from her own transition, from weak witch to vampire with strong magic, that she had to follow Rene’s orders and wait until she could be trusted amongst humans to be allowed to see Jana or Isra. Jana will need both Lucian’s venom and his blood, being the alpha’s son he has a pure bloodline, and their blood is the strongest in the pack. The PSO officers and William had been notified of the attack, but most of the rogue lycans had escaped into the woods before they got there. Rene must now tell William about the existence of Culgan’s lycan pack. Jana will have to undergo a very painful transition, if she survives at all, and Rene will never forgive him if she doesn’t, as it will devastate Raven. He finds out that Jana will have to gain control over her inner wolf, which will be a lot harder for a former human, as lycan children are taught about the pack and their wolf, years before they have their first shift.
Rene is determined to fin the source of these rogue lycans, with more of them being made every day by an unknown person. He wants Raven to understand that what happened to Jana was not her fault, but that of whoever is behind the rogues. A further shock comes when they find that the rogue vampire Dimitri has joined with the rogue lycans leader, in his fight to destroy Rene. Rene is a very old vampire and thought to be close to going mad, due to his age and having never found his fated mate, but Raven’s appearance has tempered his lack of emotions, and he is starting to show feelings and be more human. If she hadn’t chosen to be his, a monster would have been unleashed and his own people would have to try and kill him, before he became too powerful for them to stop him. Nobody would be safe! Rene had gone centuries without emotion before meeting Raven and was close to starting his metamorphosis. Lycans remember Rene as the vampire butcher who practically eradicated their species during the war between their kinds and have told their children tales of him ever since. The lycan king of the time had gone mad and wanted all humans turned lycan and vampires all gone, and Rene had obeyed his king’s orders. Without Raven, Rene would be a monster even worse than the mad lycan king. Rene and Culgan now have to work on forming a treaty between their people and a place for the lycans on the Twilight Conclave, along with the witches, vampires and humans. Ursula will try to stop them and will not agree to lycans having a seat on the conclave, so it will be a difficult process. Constantine turns up at the club and is furious with Cass (Cassara) for allowing Raven to persuade her to come and visit Isra without him and now Jana has paid the price! Rene had made Constantine the clan leader in his stead, as well as Raven’s protector, and so Cass should have obeyed his orders. There is a long-standing attraction between Cass and Constantine, which both refuse to allow to go anywhere and hints of them being fated mates. Dimitri has been turning loads of humans who were wannabe vampires, refused under Rene’s orders, and told them that Rene is the false leader and must die. These young vampires are sent in to ambush them, with Dimitri knowing they can’t kill Rene, Cass or Constantine, but they might get lucky and kill Raven, which would push Rene to transform.
Now it seems Dimitri has even persuaded some of the forest lycans to join his cause and attack Rene and Raven. Anyone who is dissatisfied with their current leader is easy pickings for Dimitri to get on his side, but he is working with someone much more powerful. On the first visit to see Jana, the group are attacked once more, this time with the long thought to be dead, lycan king, in the shadows controlling the attack. It becomes clear that the lycan king is building an army and will not be easy to defeat. The lycan king, Rahl, obviously knows and hates Rene, and tells him he will take Raven, the Blood Witch, which would have to be over Rene’s dead body, as he will never allow that to happen! Dimitri wants the lycan king to kill Rene know, but it is too soon, and he will wait until Rene has completed his transformation fully, to be able to take his power and his bride! Rene’s transformation would turn him into a vampire king who normally only emerges when his species is threatened and is uncontrollable. He would kill all enemies and be unstoppable, a monster worse than the lycan king. Normally a vampire king would go mad before their transformation, but Raven’s presence in Rene’s life has stopped that. She is key to saving the world and the lycan king knows this. Rahl will eventually kill even his own as he gets worse and power hungry, and Dimitri seems to think he will have an important place in that new world order. How Rahl thinks he will gain Rene’s power is unclear at this time and that answer will come in time no doubt. Cass seems to know more about Rene’s transformation than anyone else, not being shocked when appendages appeared on his back, like wings! They need to learn more about the emergence of a vampire king and how, or if they can defeat the lycan king, if they are to have any chance of survival and for Rene to be saved from turning into a monster.
Another fantastic episode of the relationship between Rene and Raven, as well as Cass and Constantine, but now added danger to Jana and lycans brought into the mix. The traitor Dimitri has found a new ally in his fight for power against Rene, but his new followers have no idea of the danger they are in. Jana is a strong person and has Raven’s bloodline, so I hope to see her overcome her own transformation and become a strong lycan human hybrid, with perhaps a bit of magic like her mother! Ursula has no choice but to allow the lycans into a temporary place with the conclave, but she and her warlock sidekick are dangerous and need watching. I can’t wait to find out what happens with Jana and especially with Rene, as the lycan king comes for him and Raven. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Rene is determined to fin the source of these rogue lycans, with more of them being made every day by an unknown person. He wants Raven to understand that what happened to Jana was not her fault, but that of whoever is behind the rogues. A further shock comes when they find that the rogue vampire Dimitri has joined with the rogue lycans leader, in his fight to destroy Rene. Rene is a very old vampire and thought to be close to going mad, due to his age and having never found his fated mate, but Raven’s appearance has tempered his lack of emotions, and he is starting to show feelings and be more human. If she hadn’t chosen to be his, a monster would have been unleashed and his own people would have to try and kill him, before he became too powerful for them to stop him. Nobody would be safe! Rene had gone centuries without emotion before meeting Raven and was close to starting his metamorphosis. Lycans remember Rene as the vampire butcher who practically eradicated their species during the war between their kinds and have told their children tales of him ever since. The lycan king of the time had gone mad and wanted all humans turned lycan and vampires all gone, and Rene had obeyed his king’s orders. Without Raven, Rene would be a monster even worse than the mad lycan king. Rene and Culgan now have to work on forming a treaty between their people and a place for the lycans on the Twilight Conclave, along with the witches, vampires and humans. Ursula will try to stop them and will not agree to lycans having a seat on the conclave, so it will be a difficult process. Constantine turns up at the club and is furious with Cass (Cassara) for allowing Raven to persuade her to come and visit Isra without him and now Jana has paid the price! Rene had made Constantine the clan leader in his stead, as well as Raven’s protector, and so Cass should have obeyed his orders. There is a long-standing attraction between Cass and Constantine, which both refuse to allow to go anywhere and hints of them being fated mates. Dimitri has been turning loads of humans who were wannabe vampires, refused under Rene’s orders, and told them that Rene is the false leader and must die. These young vampires are sent in to ambush them, with Dimitri knowing they can’t kill Rene, Cass or Constantine, but they might get lucky and kill Raven, which would push Rene to transform.
Now it seems Dimitri has even persuaded some of the forest lycans to join his cause and attack Rene and Raven. Anyone who is dissatisfied with their current leader is easy pickings for Dimitri to get on his side, but he is working with someone much more powerful. On the first visit to see Jana, the group are attacked once more, this time with the long thought to be dead, lycan king, in the shadows controlling the attack. It becomes clear that the lycan king is building an army and will not be easy to defeat. The lycan king, Rahl, obviously knows and hates Rene, and tells him he will take Raven, the Blood Witch, which would have to be over Rene’s dead body, as he will never allow that to happen! Dimitri wants the lycan king to kill Rene know, but it is too soon, and he will wait until Rene has completed his transformation fully, to be able to take his power and his bride! Rene’s transformation would turn him into a vampire king who normally only emerges when his species is threatened and is uncontrollable. He would kill all enemies and be unstoppable, a monster worse than the lycan king. Normally a vampire king would go mad before their transformation, but Raven’s presence in Rene’s life has stopped that. She is key to saving the world and the lycan king knows this. Rahl will eventually kill even his own as he gets worse and power hungry, and Dimitri seems to think he will have an important place in that new world order. How Rahl thinks he will gain Rene’s power is unclear at this time and that answer will come in time no doubt. Cass seems to know more about Rene’s transformation than anyone else, not being shocked when appendages appeared on his back, like wings! They need to learn more about the emergence of a vampire king and how, or if they can defeat the lycan king, if they are to have any chance of survival and for Rene to be saved from turning into a monster.
Another fantastic episode of the relationship between Rene and Raven, as well as Cass and Constantine, but now added danger to Jana and lycans brought into the mix. The traitor Dimitri has found a new ally in his fight for power against Rene, but his new followers have no idea of the danger they are in. Jana is a strong person and has Raven’s bloodline, so I hope to see her overcome her own transformation and become a strong lycan human hybrid, with perhaps a bit of magic like her mother! Ursula has no choice but to allow the lycans into a temporary place with the conclave, but she and her warlock sidekick are dangerous and need watching. I can’t wait to find out what happens with Jana and especially with Rene, as the lycan king comes for him and Raven. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
February 2, 2025
Lycan Treaty Negotiations
Jana is dying while Raven, Rene, and Isra can only hold out hope that Lucian's blood will help her survive the transition. This part of the story started out with intense emotion and uncertainty. The danger, suspense, and tense emotions did not die down as the revelation of an ancient evil was unveiled. I couldn't get enough of this story, and I am anticipating the next installment to continue with building up to a worthy ending.
Audiobook Review:
Jana is dying while Raven, Rene, and Isra can only hold out hope that Lucian's blood will help her survive the transition. This part of the story started out with intense emotion and uncertainty. The danger, suspense, and tense emotions did not die down as the revelation of an ancient evil was unveiled. I couldn't get enough of this story, and I am anticipating the next installment to continue with building up to a worthy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jana is dying while Raven, Rene, and Isra can only hold out hope that Lucian's blood will help her survive the transition. This part of the story started out with intense emotion and uncertainty. The danger, suspense, and tense emotions did not die down as the revelation of an ancient evil was unveiled. I couldn't get enough of this story, and I am anticipating the next installment to continue with building up to a worthy ending.
Audiobook Review:
Jana is dying while Raven, Rene, and Isra can only hold out hope that Lucian's blood will help her survive the transition. This part of the story started out with intense emotion and uncertainty. The danger, suspense, and tense emotions did not die down as the revelation of an ancient evil was unveiled. I couldn't get enough of this story, and I am anticipating the next installment to continue with building up to a worthy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2025
Foolish and Dead at Forty is the eighth book in Didmon's Magical Midlife Death series. This is not a standalone book. The story picks up where it left off in Forty Is The New Dead, the seventh book; please start from the beginning.
This book starts with Jana on the brink of death, and Lucian stopped from saving her by his father, Culgan.
"You know the law, my son. There is nothing I wouldn't do to ease the girl's suffering, but you have to understand the consequences. She is not just any girl; she is the daughter of the overseer's bride."
While precious minutes are ticking away, and Jana's life hanging in the balance, Culgan agrees to accept Jana into his pack but Raven and Isra must abide by his pack's rules and keep their distance during her transition, for everyone's safety.
After Lucian proceeded to give Jana his venom, her family proceeded to bear witness to her traumatic rebirth, encouraging her to continue to fight and never give up. Her human body needed to die in order for the lycan to be born.
I love that we started this journey with a witch who became a vampire, and now we have her daughter becoming a lycan. I'm absolutely captivated and can't wait from what might come next!
As usual in Didmon's books, this was just the beginning. While Jana made it through the transition, there was a lot of self-blame to go around for having brought this fate to Jana. In addition, the random attacks continue with the rogue lycans trying to destroy Rene and Raven. Recognizing that Culgan is different, a man (or wolf) of honour, Rene tries to bring him to the supernatural table (the Counsel) to have a say in interspecies dynamics much to Ursula's dismay.
If only for his beloved Raven, and her now lycan daughter, Rene is keen to find a way for all to co-exist and ideally live in harmony. Unfortunately there are challenges at every turn, including the re-emergence of a foe believed to have perished long ago.
There's always so much going on, and incredible teasers for what's to come next. I would love to see these awful rogues defeated and Dimitri taken out. I am curious about how Jana's relationship with Lucian will evolve. They seem like fated mates, which would be an interesting turn of events. I'm still hopeful Cass will open her heart to Constantine; she deserves to be love and has so much to offer. And of course, I want Raven to finally have a few days without unnecessary drama. Once can hope.
The next releases in this series are as follows:
-Book 9: North of Forty and East of Dead coming May 2025.
-Book 10: Forty Licks and Still Dead coming June 2025.
-Book 11: Wrong Side of Dead at Forty coming Aug 2025.
-Book 12: Forty Thieves for the Dead coming Sept 2025.
May feels too far away for this reader. :)
This book starts with Jana on the brink of death, and Lucian stopped from saving her by his father, Culgan.
"You know the law, my son. There is nothing I wouldn't do to ease the girl's suffering, but you have to understand the consequences. She is not just any girl; she is the daughter of the overseer's bride."
While precious minutes are ticking away, and Jana's life hanging in the balance, Culgan agrees to accept Jana into his pack but Raven and Isra must abide by his pack's rules and keep their distance during her transition, for everyone's safety.
After Lucian proceeded to give Jana his venom, her family proceeded to bear witness to her traumatic rebirth, encouraging her to continue to fight and never give up. Her human body needed to die in order for the lycan to be born.
I love that we started this journey with a witch who became a vampire, and now we have her daughter becoming a lycan. I'm absolutely captivated and can't wait from what might come next!
As usual in Didmon's books, this was just the beginning. While Jana made it through the transition, there was a lot of self-blame to go around for having brought this fate to Jana. In addition, the random attacks continue with the rogue lycans trying to destroy Rene and Raven. Recognizing that Culgan is different, a man (or wolf) of honour, Rene tries to bring him to the supernatural table (the Counsel) to have a say in interspecies dynamics much to Ursula's dismay.
If only for his beloved Raven, and her now lycan daughter, Rene is keen to find a way for all to co-exist and ideally live in harmony. Unfortunately there are challenges at every turn, including the re-emergence of a foe believed to have perished long ago.
There's always so much going on, and incredible teasers for what's to come next. I would love to see these awful rogues defeated and Dimitri taken out. I am curious about how Jana's relationship with Lucian will evolve. They seem like fated mates, which would be an interesting turn of events. I'm still hopeful Cass will open her heart to Constantine; she deserves to be love and has so much to offer. And of course, I want Raven to finally have a few days without unnecessary drama. Once can hope.
The next releases in this series are as follows:
-Book 9: North of Forty and East of Dead coming May 2025.
-Book 10: Forty Licks and Still Dead coming June 2025.
-Book 11: Wrong Side of Dead at Forty coming Aug 2025.
-Book 12: Forty Thieves for the Dead coming Sept 2025.
May feels too far away for this reader. :)
February 1, 2025
At Club Spice a fight had erupted. In the melee Jana, Raven's daughter, is bitten. As Lucien is about to help her some older lycan tells him to stop. But she goes toe to toe with him. She tells him that's her daughter he won't help. The older gentleman is Lucien's father. He tells Lucien the consequences. But Lucien says he needs her. But she and Isra need to abide by a few rules. She becomes a part of his pact. Once the explanations are done Culgan takes Lucien's hand and cute into then Jana's and puts them together. Lucien is from a powerful pack and he is the leader. If Jana survives she needs to be taught to control her urges. Now they wait for the transition. It will be brutal and painful.
It takes a while but Jana's transformation is complete. To the lycans amazement she can fully transform something that is usualy not done. Culgan says it must be something in their blood..in essence they are unicorns. Now Jana needs to go with them to learn about being lycan and how to control her basic instincts. Jana leaves with Lucien while Rene and Culgan talk. The good thing about this whole debacle is that Rene will help the lycans do blood tests to sort out what is in their blood that can be in the humans so that the claiming and changing of humans can be better than it ever was.
The bigges issue will be Ursula who will fight the addition of the lycans. AS they are discussing the repercussions Constantine comes in and cornors Cass. He blames her. But Raven tells him it isn't Cass's fault but hers for surviving the transition into a vampire. Now everyone has to take a step back. NOw is not the time to try to put blame on someone. They need the lycans admitted into the Council and there is going to be a battle with Ursula. They also need to be able to make sure the Rene's transition goes smoothly.
Will everyone be able to get past the lycan rougues attacks? Will a way for Raven and Isra to see their daughter Jana?
Can they keep a handle on Rene's transition? It a rebellion still possible?
A fascinating story in this continuing story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It takes a while but Jana's transformation is complete. To the lycans amazement she can fully transform something that is usualy not done. Culgan says it must be something in their blood..in essence they are unicorns. Now Jana needs to go with them to learn about being lycan and how to control her basic instincts. Jana leaves with Lucien while Rene and Culgan talk. The good thing about this whole debacle is that Rene will help the lycans do blood tests to sort out what is in their blood that can be in the humans so that the claiming and changing of humans can be better than it ever was.
The bigges issue will be Ursula who will fight the addition of the lycans. AS they are discussing the repercussions Constantine comes in and cornors Cass. He blames her. But Raven tells him it isn't Cass's fault but hers for surviving the transition into a vampire. Now everyone has to take a step back. NOw is not the time to try to put blame on someone. They need the lycans admitted into the Council and there is going to be a battle with Ursula. They also need to be able to make sure the Rene's transition goes smoothly.
Will everyone be able to get past the lycan rougues attacks? Will a way for Raven and Isra to see their daughter Jana?
Can they keep a handle on Rene's transition? It a rebellion still possible?
A fascinating story in this continuing story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2025
Tia Didmon has done it again with Foolish and Dead at Forty! This series has been one of my absolute favorites in the paranormal women’s fiction genre, and this latest installment just raised the stakes in ways I wasn’t prepared for.
From the moment Jana’s attack leaves her fate uncertain, I was completely hooked. The tension is palpable as the delicate truce between factions teeters on the edge of destruction. I love how this book dives deeper into the lycan conspiracy, revealing layers of deception, hidden enemies, and a force more dangerous than anyone expected. And when Dimitri’s rogue vampires enter the mix? I knew things were about to get wild!
But what really grabbed me was Rene’s transformation. I’ve been fascinated by her journey from the start, and now, with her mutation accelerating, the big question looms: Is she evolving into something powerful enough to save them all, or is she turning into a monster they can’t control? The moral dilemmas, the emotional weight—Didmon balances it all so perfectly that I felt every moment of uncertainty.
And, of course, the banter, the bonds, and the ride-or-die friendships continue to be one of the best parts of this series. The stakes are high, but there’s still that undeniable humor and heart woven throughout, making it feel so real and immersive.
If you’re a fan of Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, or Victoria Danann, and you love badass heroines, high-stakes magic, and conspiracies that keep you guessing, you NEED to read this book. I devoured it in one sitting and am already counting the days until the next one!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Dark, gripping, and completely addictive!.
From the moment Jana’s attack leaves her fate uncertain, I was completely hooked. The tension is palpable as the delicate truce between factions teeters on the edge of destruction. I love how this book dives deeper into the lycan conspiracy, revealing layers of deception, hidden enemies, and a force more dangerous than anyone expected. And when Dimitri’s rogue vampires enter the mix? I knew things were about to get wild!
But what really grabbed me was Rene’s transformation. I’ve been fascinated by her journey from the start, and now, with her mutation accelerating, the big question looms: Is she evolving into something powerful enough to save them all, or is she turning into a monster they can’t control? The moral dilemmas, the emotional weight—Didmon balances it all so perfectly that I felt every moment of uncertainty.
And, of course, the banter, the bonds, and the ride-or-die friendships continue to be one of the best parts of this series. The stakes are high, but there’s still that undeniable humor and heart woven throughout, making it feel so real and immersive.
If you’re a fan of Shannon Mayer, K.F. Breene, or Victoria Danann, and you love badass heroines, high-stakes magic, and conspiracies that keep you guessing, you NEED to read this book. I devoured it in one sitting and am already counting the days until the next one!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Dark, gripping, and completely addictive!.
February 2, 2025
First off, with the cliffhanger from the last book, I cried my eyes out as it started where it left off. Jana is critically injured and Club Spice is in tatters. Rene keeps holding onto Raven as she keeps trying to go to her daughter and they try to talk the Alpha of the good Lycans, whose name is Culgan and is the father of Lucian. Lucian seems to have feelings for Jana and is very protective. Isra and Raven are devastated as are everyone at Club Spice who knows, like Darcy. Learning about Lycan life was fascinating and very different. Although they had some of the same rules as the vampires. Raven is on a blame herself loop as is Cass. Rene, of course, tells William everything and that Culgan needs to be on the Council to deal with the Return of the Lycan King who is bat “blank” crazy. They still need to deal with the problem of the rogue vamps led by Dimitri, whom I’d like to have a nice talking too while Cass uses knives and other things while he is strung up. lol. I spent a lot of the book crying, cursing, with the AC on while I freaked out & sweated in worry and fear as the Lycan King freaks me out. I also laughed and wanted to hug my fave characters because I hated seeing them so sad and blaming themselves for what happened. Looks like change is coming and some of it is for the better, some for the worse, like with the witch warriors. I do not like them at all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 30, 2026
Audiobook
Spice Level: 🌶️ 1/5
Overall Story Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2 4.5/5
Narration Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
This book hit me right in the feelings. Book 8 picks up after a devastating attack on Jana, and from the very beginning, the emotional stakes are incredibly high.
Raven has faced a lot throughout this series, but watching her struggle with the possibility of losing her daughter made this one feel darker and more personal. Add in rogue lycans, rogue vampires, betrayals, and a looming war, and I was completely hooked.
Katie Hagaman continues to do an amazing job bringing Raven and the entire cast to life. Her emotional delivery during the more heartbreaking scenes was especially powerful in this book.
Whether she's handling action scenes, family drama, or supernatural chaos, she keeps the story engaging from beginning to end.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely—but only if you've been following the series. This is not a standalone and relies heavily on the events of previous books.
If you enjoy paranormal women's fiction, vampires, lycans, family drama, and high-stakes supernatural suspense, you'll love this installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Spice Level: 🌶️ 1/5
Overall Story Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2 4.5/5
Narration Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
This book hit me right in the feelings. Book 8 picks up after a devastating attack on Jana, and from the very beginning, the emotional stakes are incredibly high.
Raven has faced a lot throughout this series, but watching her struggle with the possibility of losing her daughter made this one feel darker and more personal. Add in rogue lycans, rogue vampires, betrayals, and a looming war, and I was completely hooked.
Katie Hagaman continues to do an amazing job bringing Raven and the entire cast to life. Her emotional delivery during the more heartbreaking scenes was especially powerful in this book.
Whether she's handling action scenes, family drama, or supernatural chaos, she keeps the story engaging from beginning to end.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely—but only if you've been following the series. This is not a standalone and relies heavily on the events of previous books.
If you enjoy paranormal women's fiction, vampires, lycans, family drama, and high-stakes supernatural suspense, you'll love this installment.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2025
Lycan Transition and Attempt to Create a Harmonious Balance
Wow this series took a turn for the Underworld vibes, continuing from the last book in the series, "Forty is the New Dead". The story immediately starts with the welfare of Raven's daughter, Jana, and the many challenges with transition to Lycan. Must say, the draw to this story is the unusual evolution of our main character Raven, being both a witch and vampire and now Jana, being *possibly* both witch and Lycan. How cool is that?
Raven, Rene, Cassara and Constantine must devise a way to create harmony with the supernatural community where that was not possible prior. This is even more important now that Jana is Lycan and many of the supernatural don't agree with a harmonious relationship. Jana also must learn to exist in the human world, and supernatural, peacefully.
Needless to say, there are several unexpected events that put them all to the test including displays of power and respect. Good examples of our human interactions, some politics and of course, magic. Looking forward to seeing how this evolves!
Wow this series took a turn for the Underworld vibes, continuing from the last book in the series, "Forty is the New Dead". The story immediately starts with the welfare of Raven's daughter, Jana, and the many challenges with transition to Lycan. Must say, the draw to this story is the unusual evolution of our main character Raven, being both a witch and vampire and now Jana, being *possibly* both witch and Lycan. How cool is that?
Raven, Rene, Cassara and Constantine must devise a way to create harmony with the supernatural community where that was not possible prior. This is even more important now that Jana is Lycan and many of the supernatural don't agree with a harmonious relationship. Jana also must learn to exist in the human world, and supernatural, peacefully.
Needless to say, there are several unexpected events that put them all to the test including displays of power and respect. Good examples of our human interactions, some politics and of course, magic. Looking forward to seeing how this evolves!
January 28, 2025
"Foolish and Dead at Forty" by Tia Didmon delivers an intense and gripping installment in the Paranormal Women's Fiction/Magical Midlife Death series that fans will not want to miss. Having read all the previous books, I was eager to see how the story would unfold, and Tia Didmon masterfully raised the stakes with action-packed scenes, high tension, and powerful emotional moments.
The protagonist's journey is filled with danger and a deep sense of foreboding, creating an atmosphere that keeps you on edge until the final page. The emotional depth of the characters, combined with the ever-present sense of doom, makes this story compelling and impossible to put down.
This book is a must-read for anyone invested in the series or those who enjoy stories filled with action, suspense, and raw, emotional storytelling. Tia Didmon continues to excel at creating a world where danger and heartbreak collide, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what’s next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The protagonist's journey is filled with danger and a deep sense of foreboding, creating an atmosphere that keeps you on edge until the final page. The emotional depth of the characters, combined with the ever-present sense of doom, makes this story compelling and impossible to put down.
This book is a must-read for anyone invested in the series or those who enjoy stories filled with action, suspense, and raw, emotional storytelling. Tia Didmon continues to excel at creating a world where danger and heartbreak collide, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what’s next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2025
This Story keeps us on Edge, waiting for Whatever Comes Next
What excitement! Tia Didmon has done an excellent job of keeping her audience entertained and waiting to see what horrors could be coming that could destroy even the vampires. An ancient species arises from an even older evil. So, the leaders of each species must work as one for any hope of survival. But one leader is mot truly with them. And another, must change more than just their mindset. One must change their very being to become a new creature altogether to lead the armies to save the world. Meanwhile, all through the story, Raven and Isra have tried and failed to get back together with Jana. They are also on edge to see their changed daughter. Both need her to survive the terror that is coming. And she is still an unknown. Does she become a major player? Twist after twist, this story leaves the reader on pins and needles, waiting for the next story to be written. Story telling at its horrible finest.
What excitement! Tia Didmon has done an excellent job of keeping her audience entertained and waiting to see what horrors could be coming that could destroy even the vampires. An ancient species arises from an even older evil. So, the leaders of each species must work as one for any hope of survival. But one leader is mot truly with them. And another, must change more than just their mindset. One must change their very being to become a new creature altogether to lead the armies to save the world. Meanwhile, all through the story, Raven and Isra have tried and failed to get back together with Jana. They are also on edge to see their changed daughter. Both need her to survive the terror that is coming. And she is still an unknown. Does she become a major player? Twist after twist, this story leaves the reader on pins and needles, waiting for the next story to be written. Story telling at its horrible finest.
January 5, 2025
this is a heavily angst and guilt filled bunch of action as everyone tries to cope with the attacks of the rogues
More personal history and reflections were interesting, as warriors of many kinds reveal their hearts.
I really love Raven as a tiger mom, even as I mourn for her and others.
tangled loyalties, misdirection and deceits make things more devastating.
the suspense and action layered between the vulnerable bits of these folks who are capable of being very lethal really draws me in - and makes me want to see someone kick some of the persistent bad guys.
Deeply wrought deceptions against folks drawn into the drama along the way draw my sympathy for folks who are mostly desperate.
This world is so good at drawing me in with action and suspense, I am already on edge to see what happens after the latest developments.
More personal history and reflections were interesting, as warriors of many kinds reveal their hearts.
I really love Raven as a tiger mom, even as I mourn for her and others.
tangled loyalties, misdirection and deceits make things more devastating.
the suspense and action layered between the vulnerable bits of these folks who are capable of being very lethal really draws me in - and makes me want to see someone kick some of the persistent bad guys.
Deeply wrought deceptions against folks drawn into the drama along the way draw my sympathy for folks who are mostly desperate.
This world is so good at drawing me in with action and suspense, I am already on edge to see what happens after the latest developments.
January 30, 2025
So much is going on in this world and they all seamlessly tie together with our main couple right in the thick of things.
The evolution of the Vampire King and the emergance of the thought dead Lycan King is going to be interesting. The mystery of the rogue wolves and the treason of some of the Counsel and rogue Vamps seems to be coming to a final showdown as the Counsel has to accept the Lycan leader to solve this issue. The transitioning daughter of the main character seems to be yet another mystery as to her connection to the Lycan leader's son. I am thoroughly amazed by this author's ability to have so much going on and still add the personal character details that make us so invested in these characters. I highly recommend this series and Author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have read all in this series.
The evolution of the Vampire King and the emergance of the thought dead Lycan King is going to be interesting. The mystery of the rogue wolves and the treason of some of the Counsel and rogue Vamps seems to be coming to a final showdown as the Counsel has to accept the Lycan leader to solve this issue. The transitioning daughter of the main character seems to be yet another mystery as to her connection to the Lycan leader's son. I am thoroughly amazed by this author's ability to have so much going on and still add the personal character details that make us so invested in these characters. I highly recommend this series and Author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I have read all in this series.
January 20, 2025
In Book 8 of “Magical Midlife Death” we discover what happens to Raven’s daughter, Jana, who was bitten by a rogue Lycan, we learn how low Dimitri will go and we meet the lycan king.
Magical Midlife Death is one of my favorite series and I cannot wait to read the next book. I recommend this series. You will want to start with the first Book, “Forever Forty”, as each book builds on the next. This is a wonderful series that is well worth reading. I am loving it and know you will enjoy every minute of it too!!! I cannot wait until May 1, 2025 when the next book, “North of Forty and East of Dead”, comes out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Magical Midlife Death is one of my favorite series and I cannot wait to read the next book. I recommend this series. You will want to start with the first Book, “Forever Forty”, as each book builds on the next. This is a wonderful series that is well worth reading. I am loving it and know you will enjoy every minute of it too!!! I cannot wait until May 1, 2025 when the next book, “North of Forty and East of Dead”, comes out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 1, 2025
This is a continuation of the series. It is best read in order.
Suspense, mystery and new discoveries are bountiful in the story.
We learn about Jana's future after the attack. I liked how Lucian was able to convince his father about Jana.
Cass has her own situation to get through. And then there is Rene and what he is becoming. We learn about the Lycan King and who he is associating with. Trouble is in the horizon. How are they going to defeat the new threat and will the scrolls and ancient books give them any hope for the future.
Well thought out. I loved that Raven keeps Rene "stable" with her undying love for him. His love for her is for eternity.
Can't wait for the next book .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Suspense, mystery and new discoveries are bountiful in the story.
We learn about Jana's future after the attack. I liked how Lucian was able to convince his father about Jana.
Cass has her own situation to get through. And then there is Rene and what he is becoming. We learn about the Lycan King and who he is associating with. Trouble is in the horizon. How are they going to defeat the new threat and will the scrolls and ancient books give them any hope for the future.
Well thought out. I loved that Raven keeps Rene "stable" with her undying love for him. His love for her is for eternity.
Can't wait for the next book .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 5, 2025
I see a potential spin off
As Raven and Rene deal with the ramifications of Jana's werewolf bite and subsequent transformation, the stakes grow between the human, witch, and vampire coalition and the rogue vampires and werewolves. With rogue werewolves joining Dimitri's growing faction of newly made vampires, things are becoming more and more precarious and now they have the added worry of Jana becoming a werewolf. Thankfully, their new allies, Lucian and his father, will manage Jana's introduction to pack life. I can see this branching off in a spin-off for the werewolves. In the meantime, this series continues to throw danger, action and intrigue our way as the romance builds between Raven and Rene.
As Raven and Rene deal with the ramifications of Jana's werewolf bite and subsequent transformation, the stakes grow between the human, witch, and vampire coalition and the rogue vampires and werewolves. With rogue werewolves joining Dimitri's growing faction of newly made vampires, things are becoming more and more precarious and now they have the added worry of Jana becoming a werewolf. Thankfully, their new allies, Lucian and his father, will manage Jana's introduction to pack life. I can see this branching off in a spin-off for the werewolves. In the meantime, this series continues to throw danger, action and intrigue our way as the romance builds between Raven and Rene.
June 26, 2025
My review is written after listening to the audio version of this book.
I love listening to this exciting series. Tia Didmon does an excellent job of keeping the listener entertained, and waiting eagerly to see what she has in store for the vampires. As an ancient species arises, forcing the leaders of each species to work together if there is to be any hope of survival. But one leader is not really with them.
Tia Didmon continues to include twist after twist in this story, leaving the listener on the edge of their seats, eager to listen to the next instalment.
The narration is excellent, Katie Hagaman has made these characters her own!
I love listening to this exciting series. Tia Didmon does an excellent job of keeping the listener entertained, and waiting eagerly to see what she has in store for the vampires. As an ancient species arises, forcing the leaders of each species to work together if there is to be any hope of survival. But one leader is not really with them.
Tia Didmon continues to include twist after twist in this story, leaving the listener on the edge of their seats, eager to listen to the next instalment.
The narration is excellent, Katie Hagaman has made these characters her own!
January 8, 2025
Awesome story! Raven is faced with a yet another change that she has no control over. But things are only getting worse because the Lycan King is back and that threatens everyone's livelihood. No one is safe unless they can find a way to stop him. Nail biting page turner that has you at the edge of your seat. An intriguing storyline with some eclectic characters that make this series amazing! Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2025
Jana was attacked by rogue lycans, Lucian wants to save her but his father was trying to stop her until he learned who she was. Lucian couldn’t let her die his father gave in but Raven and Isra won’t be able to see her until she can control her lycan. Rene having problems with his transformation and Raven isn’t sure if she can really be that much help. Ursula upset at them again, Rene and Ravin think they know who is behind the rogues after they were attacked by some vampires again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2025
Foolish and Dead at Forty by Tia Didmon is an amazing paranormal woman fantasy. Katie Hagaman did an excellent job with the narration. Foolish and Dead at Forty is the eighth book in Magical Midlife Death series. The story is entertaining, action packed, enjoyable, dramatic, exciting and more. There are many twists and turns that make it interesting. Old enemies are in a delicate balance between becoming allies and staying enemies.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2026
Another good read.
This book takes off where last one finished. With Jana's transition. But will Raven and Isra be able to meet up with her later? As you're no doubt aware, everywhere Raven & Co go they're met up with rogues, whether lycan or vampire. Now it looks as if they've teamed up to get what they both want. Dimitri wants to be overseer but he has not the psychological profile to really do it. The lycan King wants Raven. Will they ever get a quiet day?
Recommended you read in order.
This book takes off where last one finished. With Jana's transition. But will Raven and Isra be able to meet up with her later? As you're no doubt aware, everywhere Raven & Co go they're met up with rogues, whether lycan or vampire. Now it looks as if they've teamed up to get what they both want. Dimitri wants to be overseer but he has not the psychological profile to really do it. The lycan King wants Raven. Will they ever get a quiet day?
Recommended you read in order.
January 4, 2025
Raven's girl is stronger than anyone thinks.
But the past is coming out to play and it is making the future look dangerous.
An old foe returned making it harder for everyone, but new alliances seem to be coming to fruition.
Reading Raven's take on things is interesting.
The details are not too much but share just enough to keep you interested.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But the past is coming out to play and it is making the future look dangerous.
An old foe returned making it harder for everyone, but new alliances seem to be coming to fruition.
Reading Raven's take on things is interesting.
The details are not too much but share just enough to keep you interested.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2025
Return of the King picks up where the previous book left off. Raven is devastated by what happened to Jana. Cass blames herself for Jana. Turmoil brews between Raven, Cass, and Constantine. A major portion of the book focuses on Raven wanting to go see Jana. During this time a new threat arises, bigger even than Demetri.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2025
Foolish and Dead at Forty Book 8 of Magical Midlife Death Series by Tia Didmon begins where the last book ended, with Jana hurt and dying and Raven trying to get to her. This book is very sad, very repetitive and not my favorite in this series. I really have been into this series and it's been really, really good and look forward to reading the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 19, 2025
Book 8 and the adventures continue as we pick up from where we left off in book 7! Jana is gravely injured and her fate unknown as this addition takes us into the world of deception, betrayal, danger and rogue vampires!! Exciting, thrilling, this author knows how to draw you in and have you hooked from the get go. With Rene’s transformation and more challenges just round every corner, I just could not put this down! Until the next one.
June 27, 2025
Gleeful Goblin Review: In this next chapter life keeps throwing Raven more curve balls than any one Bloodwitch should have to handle. With Jana's future in the balance old enemies become new allies and current ties are under strain. The action and intrigue keeps ramping up and I can't wait for the next chapter. 5/5 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2025
Lycan king is still alive. The team is flabbergasted to discover that Lycans still exists. Can they help the lycans and defeat the king. Raven has to see her newly changed daughter but they are having to fight to get to her as she is transitioning.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2025
We find out what happens to Jana after she was bitten by a rogue lycan. We also find out just how low Dimitri is willing to go to overthrow Rene. Hint: very low. A new, and powerful enemy emerges and Rene will surprise everyone. Hold on to your saddle horn, this ride is going to be rough. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2025
I love this series and prefer the audiobooks but will read the ebooks to avoid the wait. This book was drawn out and took too long on things that shouldn't have taken so long to get through. This book seem like it should have been a chapter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 10, 2025
I could not put this book down. I was hooked back into the characters lives right from the start. Awesome characters, Awesome storyline. Vampires, Witches, Lycans, Humans. An exciting story. I love this series, and can’t wait to read the next instalment. Awesome read! I loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2025
We pick up were we left off. So much is going on this book. Raven, Rene, Cassara, Constantine, and Jana follow the supernatural world as everything happens. Can anything ever be peaceful? Will Jana learn to exist in more than one world?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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