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Leveling Up #2
Magical Midlife Dating
She must learn to fly, but can she withstand the allure of the handsome new teacher?
Book two in the Top 10 Kindle Store and internationally best-selling series by USA Today best-selling author K.F. Breene!
The decision has been made. Jessie has taken the magic and all the weird that goes with it. Including wings.
There's only one problem - she can't figure out how to access them.
Through a series of terrible decisions, Jessie realizes she must ask for help. Gargoyle help.
But she could've never predicted who answers her call - he's an excellent flier, incredibly patient, and a good trainer. He's also incredibly handsome. And interested.
Maybe flying isn't the only thing she needs help with. Maybe she needs help getting back on that saddle, too, emerging into the dating pool.
Except, the new gargoyle is also an alpha, just like Austin, and the town isn't big enough for two.
Turns out, flying is the least of her problems.
Book two in the Top 10 Kindle Store and internationally best-selling series by USA Today best-selling author K.F. Breene!
The decision has been made. Jessie has taken the magic and all the weird that goes with it. Including wings.
There's only one problem - she can't figure out how to access them.
Through a series of terrible decisions, Jessie realizes she must ask for help. Gargoyle help.
But she could've never predicted who answers her call - he's an excellent flier, incredibly patient, and a good trainer. He's also incredibly handsome. And interested.
Maybe flying isn't the only thing she needs help with. Maybe she needs help getting back on that saddle, too, emerging into the dating pool.
Except, the new gargoyle is also an alpha, just like Austin, and the town isn't big enough for two.
Turns out, flying is the least of her problems.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 11, 2020
9904 people are currently reading
6410 people want to read
About the author
K.F. Breene
124 books15k followersFollow me!
K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
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K.F. Breene is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post, Amazon Most Sold Charts and #1 Kindle Store bestselling author of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and fantasy novels. With millions of books sold, when she's not penning stories about magic and what goes bump in the night, she's sipping wine and planning shenanigans. She lives in Northern California with her husband, two children, and out of work treadmill.
Click FOLLOW for notification of new releases.
Join her mailing list to receive BONUS CONTENT, free stories, and hear about the crazy goings-on of her life. Sign up here ➜ http://bit.ly/KFBContent
Check out her chat group on Goodreads!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,567 reviews
August 25, 2020
I thought the first book in the series, Magical Midlife Madness, quite cute. The premise is that a woman is at odds after divorcing and her only son going off to college, so when she inherits a house out of the blue in a small California town, she thinks, ‘why not?’ The eccentric butler and gardener only add to the appeal. As she uncovers the mysteries of the house, she discovers she is spiritual heir to its magic and the plot revolves around discovering and accepting that magic and a new life.
However, the sequel is entirely content to backtrack and recycle, first by suddenly giving us a main character that goes from embracing independence and a new way of living (hello, magic metaphor!) to one that is focused on dating. I'm not sure how we got here, because that wasn't really the mental focus of the last book, which left her and the reader preparing for a magical attack. She compounds this with stupid decision-making, by deciding it would be appropriate to date non-magical people (‘Dicks,’ of ‘Dick and Jane’ fame, ha. ha.) and take them to the magical-people bar (logic escapes me). Presumably unable to think of a new UF-style plot (despite prior groundwork), Breene decides to recycle ‘accept the magic’ premise of discovering and accepting her supposed ability to fly.
Ugh. While I know I was experiencing QB™ the first book, I didn’t think I had it that bad. Madness was sweet, it held attention (mostly) and I didn’t skim (mostly). This, however, was just… same ol’, same ol’ mass-market, dingy-girl-woman looks for date. Think Stephanie Plum, book 19, only with less elements of what made the first good.
Despite having been ’empowered’ enough in book one to keep her ‘midlife’ body, she did take the rejuvenation moment to tighten up some saggy bits and remove some cellulite, so we’re treated to lots of hot-mama oogling/dressing up scenes here (she’s also kind of a self-righteous twit because she didn’t make her vampire minion any younger). Oh, it’s so empowering to date like this! Her Carebear™ non-boyfriend does lots of flexing, growling and advice-giving when he sees her, so we get the whole alpha male scene, tempered with Breene’s point that Jessie’s magic is equally strong.
But Jessie remains just dumb here–really, the whole premise of dating when she’s head of a magical nexus that the magical universe is salivating over?–and if there’s one thing that annoys me, it’s setting up your plot based on your heroine not being security conscious. (Talk about privilege!) There's multiple instances where she does 'instinctual' magical shout-outs for ‘help’--so stupid-- and the trust the group placed in the respondees was questionable. Honestly, I was waiting for at least one to be a double-agent. Incidentally, all of the magical learning becomes hand-wavy 'instinct,' with an occasional reference to a confusing book the vampire is translating (don't even try and figure that one out).
What I did like was the non-Bigfoot creature who was more than a little obsessed with flowers. That was pretty much the most redeeming character. Everything else, passable to lame. Oh, and for those that actually want dating and sex–there were no happy-sexy times here. Just ugh.
Hey, good news! I guess I recovered from Quarantine Brain™!
One and a half stars, rounding up strictly because of the rating system, and the need to distinguish this from the truly one-star, throw-across-the-room reads.
However, the sequel is entirely content to backtrack and recycle, first by suddenly giving us a main character that goes from embracing independence and a new way of living (hello, magic metaphor!) to one that is focused on dating. I'm not sure how we got here, because that wasn't really the mental focus of the last book, which left her and the reader preparing for a magical attack. She compounds this with stupid decision-making, by deciding it would be appropriate to date non-magical people (‘Dicks,’ of ‘Dick and Jane’ fame, ha. ha.) and take them to the magical-people bar (logic escapes me). Presumably unable to think of a new UF-style plot (despite prior groundwork), Breene decides to recycle ‘accept the magic’ premise of discovering and accepting her supposed ability to fly.
Ugh. While I know I was experiencing QB™ the first book, I didn’t think I had it that bad. Madness was sweet, it held attention (mostly) and I didn’t skim (mostly). This, however, was just… same ol’, same ol’ mass-market, dingy-girl-woman looks for date. Think Stephanie Plum, book 19, only with less elements of what made the first good.
Despite having been ’empowered’ enough in book one to keep her ‘midlife’ body, she did take the rejuvenation moment to tighten up some saggy bits and remove some cellulite, so we’re treated to lots of hot-mama oogling/dressing up scenes here (she’s also kind of a self-righteous twit because she didn’t make her vampire minion any younger). Oh, it’s so empowering to date like this! Her Carebear™ non-boyfriend does lots of flexing, growling and advice-giving when he sees her, so we get the whole alpha male scene, tempered with Breene’s point that Jessie’s magic is equally strong.
But Jessie remains just dumb here–really, the whole premise of dating when she’s head of a magical nexus that the magical universe is salivating over?–and if there’s one thing that annoys me, it’s setting up your plot based on your heroine not being security conscious. (Talk about privilege!) There's multiple instances where she does 'instinctual' magical shout-outs for ‘help’--so stupid-- and the trust the group placed in the respondees was questionable. Honestly, I was waiting for at least one to be a double-agent. Incidentally, all of the magical learning becomes hand-wavy 'instinct,' with an occasional reference to a confusing book the vampire is translating (don't even try and figure that one out).
What I did like was the non-Bigfoot creature who was more than a little obsessed with flowers. That was pretty much the most redeeming character. Everything else, passable to lame. Oh, and for those that actually want dating and sex–there were no happy-sexy times here. Just ugh.
Hey, good news! I guess I recovered from Quarantine Brain™!
One and a half stars, rounding up strictly because of the rating system, and the need to distinguish this from the truly one-star, throw-across-the-room reads.
March 3, 2026
I swear, the thing that would scare the crap outta me in real life was the highlight of this book. Dolls, it had to be dolls. Lol.
In this second, very anticipated book; our MC decided that trying to figure out her magic and wasn't she supposed to have wings?? Just wasn't enough. So she adds the drama of online dating to her life because... when you have an itch... who can blame you?
Of course, having a bounty on your head and accidentally putting out loud mental calls for help to who knows who (but they're coming!) Doesn't help either.
I laughed a lot. Got a lot of funny looks from my coworkers for that. (I listened to the audiobook.) My heart raced at moments, and all in all, I seriously enjoyed the ride.
In this second, very anticipated book; our MC decided that trying to figure out her magic and wasn't she supposed to have wings?? Just wasn't enough. So she adds the drama of online dating to her life because... when you have an itch... who can blame you?
Of course, having a bounty on your head and accidentally putting out loud mental calls for help to who knows who (but they're coming!) Doesn't help either.
I laughed a lot. Got a lot of funny looks from my coworkers for that. (I listened to the audiobook.) My heart raced at moments, and all in all, I seriously enjoyed the ride.
November 21, 2020
Magical Midlife Dating: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel
Leveling Up, Book 2
By: K.F. Breene
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
This book is almost as funny as book one! It is as good as book one in the characters, the hilarious banter (I love Tom!), the craziness of this life, and the subtle romance. I laughed and laughed! This book had many kidnapping attempts, Jessie learning to fly (😆), and alpha males being alpha males! Totally insane! We meet a Bigfoot too! Loads of fun!
Definitely read in order and get the Audible version over ebook or print! The narration is so terrific!!!
Leveling Up, Book 2
By: K.F. Breene
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
This book is almost as funny as book one! It is as good as book one in the characters, the hilarious banter (I love Tom!), the craziness of this life, and the subtle romance. I laughed and laughed! This book had many kidnapping attempts, Jessie learning to fly (😆), and alpha males being alpha males! Totally insane! We meet a Bigfoot too! Loads of fun!
Definitely read in order and get the Audible version over ebook or print! The narration is so terrific!!!
October 15, 2025
This series is so dang fun. It gets a little preachy at times - some refrain about how women are trained/brainwashed by society to accept being second class citizens/objectified/to only dress a certain way after 40/etc. is repeated about a half dozen times in the book. But it is a minor quibble, honestly. Across the board I just had serious fun.
In the next book, I really hope Austin decides to either shit or get off the pot, though. He sure spends a lot of time coming up with reasons why he can't have or be or do what he wants.
Also, it must be said: those dolls are fucking creepy.
In the next book, I really hope Austin decides to either shit or get off the pot, though. He sure spends a lot of time coming up with reasons why he can't have or be or do what he wants.
Also, it must be said: those dolls are fucking creepy.
February 28, 2021
Another wonderful installment. We follow Jessie as she feels her way through her newfound powers. When she summons help from unlikely places, it is a riot to watch it unfold. Let the awkwardness begin!
February 6, 2026
I think I have found my kin in this author. Her writing takes everything to a new level and I find I like to go on the journey.
Jessie has officially stepped into the magical life — wings, power, chaos, the whole package — and now she just has to figure out how to use any of it. The wings in particular are giving her grief, which leads her straight into the arms of the one group she hoped to avoid asking for help: gargoyles. And of course the one who answers her call is handsome, patient, skilled… and very, very interested.
Suddenly Jessie isn’t just learning to fly — she’s being nudged back into the dating world, whether she’s ready or not. And because this is Ivy House, the universe decides to make things extra spicy by sending her an alpha gargoyle who immediately clashes with Austin. Two alphas, one small town, and Jessie stuck in the middle trying to keep the peace while also trying not to fall on her face mid‑air.
The magic ramps up, the danger creeps in, and the humor is absolutely on point. Jessie’s awkwardness, the crew’s antics, and the general “midlife but make it magical” vibe make this book ridiculously fun. The author has such a sharp, playful style — it’s easy to get swept up in the adventure and laugh your way through the chaos.
It’s packed with magical beings, action, flirting, danger, and those laugh‑out‑loud moments that make this series so addictive. Honestly, it feels like settling in with a group of unhinged friends you can’t help but adore.
A wildly entertaining second installment — and yes, it absolutely makes you want to dive straight into the next one.
Jessie has officially stepped into the magical life — wings, power, chaos, the whole package — and now she just has to figure out how to use any of it. The wings in particular are giving her grief, which leads her straight into the arms of the one group she hoped to avoid asking for help: gargoyles. And of course the one who answers her call is handsome, patient, skilled… and very, very interested.
Suddenly Jessie isn’t just learning to fly — she’s being nudged back into the dating world, whether she’s ready or not. And because this is Ivy House, the universe decides to make things extra spicy by sending her an alpha gargoyle who immediately clashes with Austin. Two alphas, one small town, and Jessie stuck in the middle trying to keep the peace while also trying not to fall on her face mid‑air.
The magic ramps up, the danger creeps in, and the humor is absolutely on point. Jessie’s awkwardness, the crew’s antics, and the general “midlife but make it magical” vibe make this book ridiculously fun. The author has such a sharp, playful style — it’s easy to get swept up in the adventure and laugh your way through the chaos.
It’s packed with magical beings, action, flirting, danger, and those laugh‑out‑loud moments that make this series so addictive. Honestly, it feels like settling in with a group of unhinged friends you can’t help but adore.
A wildly entertaining second installment — and yes, it absolutely makes you want to dive straight into the next one.
August 17, 2020
K f Breene amazing quality and craziness
The first was absolutely hilarious but this one was a bit more serious
The first book managed to have an insane amount of humour, so it fit perfectly into the flow. This one wasn't as funny.
I really loved reading Austin’s side as well really liked this aspect and Mr Tom and Niamh's banter is brilliant.
This amazing book will reel you into its pages and not let you go!
The first was absolutely hilarious but this one was a bit more serious
The first book managed to have an insane amount of humour, so it fit perfectly into the flow. This one wasn't as funny.
I really loved reading Austin’s side as well really liked this aspect and Mr Tom and Niamh's banter is brilliant.
This amazing book will reel you into its pages and not let you go!
October 19, 2024
3.5 stars Jessie wants to date
And not everyone’s happy about it 👀 *cough cough * Austin *cough cough* 🤣.
The book starts off from where book 1 ended, after the battle where we know Jessie has powers but we still need to see what else she might have (and the creeeeepy AF dolls fighting as well 🤣).
She’s training and trying to get her wings from sprouting, but no luck (not even when she’s jumping off buildings to see if they’ll pop up 🤣 good thing she heals quickly 😅).
Now that things have settled, she wants to try dating 😅. She was with her ex for decades, so she’s a LITTLE (or a lotta) bit rusty now 🤣. She needs to get with the times, so online dating apps it is 😅.
Not only that, buuuut there’s a storm brewing, so she needs to get her training into gear and prepare 😅.
Enter Ivy House’s choice, Damarion- a huuuuge and smeeeexy AF gargoyle shifter 👀
Guess Austin’s gonna witness Jessie’s new beau take her from under him 💅🤣
What I liked: possible spoilers
—Jessie has wings 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. Not only that, but she has some pretty sick powers too 💅. I love that she’s able to control people 🤣 and stop things from happening 💁🏻♀️. Who cares that she’s 40 years old? She’s still gots it 💁🏻♀️💅
— age ain’t nothing but a number 👏🏻
—the OMD 😈. I luuuuuurved it 😉. Austin and Damarion might not get along for other reasons, but we all know that a lot of it has to do with Jessie 👀. Plus, if Austin‘s going to be her hero, he’s gotya defend her 👀 get his hands dirty 🤷🏻♀️
—how JP Austin gets 👀😮💨
— how protective Austin is ❤️. I love that he was upset when he saw how messed up Jessie was after training, adding fuel to the fire to the OMD 😈
—the House’s amazingness 😮💨. I wish these existed🤣
—sooo… there’s kissing going on between Jessie and Damarion, and I wasn’t mad at it 🤷🏻♀️. It was 🔥🫠. Damarion knows how to get a girl going 🤣. I just hope that whenever Austin wakes up (and Jessie agrees as well) that is even better 👀
— the side characters 🫶. I love Earl and Mr. Tom and Niamh and others… they better be okay as the series progresses; I won’t be able to handle their deaths
—THE DOLLLLLSSS 🤣🤣🤣. Look. If I’m gonna have those creepy dolls animated, they better be protecting me, and that’s exactly what they do for Jessie 👏🏻🤣. Now if only they weren’t creepy all the time 😬😅
What I didn’t like/wanted more of: possible spoilers
—the lack of 🔥. Listen. I am TWO books in now, and we STILL haven’t gotten any??? 😒😒😒. Sigh. Come ooooooonnnn 🤣🤣😑😑😑
—who will end up being her hero? It feels like it’s Austin, but I don’t wanna get my hopes up 🤣
—I hope Austin ain’t going around town either 👀. If Jessie’s not getting any, then he can’t get any either 🤣. Yeah. I don’t care that it isn’t fair 🤡 it’s fair in MY eyes 🤡
—more powers 👀. I really hope Jessie ends up getting more. That would be Baaaaad assssssss 👏🏻👏🏻
— whatever happened to her family/friend from back home? Really don’t get much info about anything going on with them 😬 especially her BFF that got this “job”
Overall, I’m enjoying it, but I need a lot more. I can’t believe there’s like 10 books in this series 🤣. I’ll always see some deaths in this one, I really hope none of the amazing side characters die 😭
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-no sex 😐 (not sure if it’s a trigger for anyone 🤣)
-violence/bloodshed/deaths
-OMD: there’s OM who is selected to protect the h. The h and OM kiss a couple of times (and she gets to see him stroking himself 😅). The “H” and the OM get into a couple of fights as well 😅(it’s the only action we saw 😒 bahahahah joking… but am I? lol)
-cliffy
And not everyone’s happy about it 👀 *cough cough * Austin *cough cough* 🤣.
The book starts off from where book 1 ended, after the battle where we know Jessie has powers but we still need to see what else she might have (and the creeeeepy AF dolls fighting as well 🤣).
She’s training and trying to get her wings from sprouting, but no luck (not even when she’s jumping off buildings to see if they’ll pop up 🤣 good thing she heals quickly 😅).
Now that things have settled, she wants to try dating 😅. She was with her ex for decades, so she’s a LITTLE (or a lotta) bit rusty now 🤣. She needs to get with the times, so online dating apps it is 😅.
Not only that, buuuut there’s a storm brewing, so she needs to get her training into gear and prepare 😅.
Enter Ivy House’s choice, Damarion- a huuuuge and smeeeexy AF gargoyle shifter 👀
Guess Austin’s gonna witness Jessie’s new beau take her from under him 💅🤣
What I liked: possible spoilers
—Jessie has wings 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. Not only that, but she has some pretty sick powers too 💅. I love that she’s able to control people 🤣 and stop things from happening 💁🏻♀️. Who cares that she’s 40 years old? She’s still gots it 💁🏻♀️💅
— age ain’t nothing but a number 👏🏻
—the OMD 😈. I luuuuuurved it 😉. Austin and Damarion might not get along for other reasons, but we all know that a lot of it has to do with Jessie 👀. Plus, if Austin‘s going to be her hero, he’s gotya defend her 👀 get his hands dirty 🤷🏻♀️
—how JP Austin gets 👀😮💨
— how protective Austin is ❤️. I love that he was upset when he saw how messed up Jessie was after training, adding fuel to the fire to the OMD 😈
—the House’s amazingness 😮💨. I wish these existed🤣
—sooo… there’s kissing going on between Jessie and Damarion, and I wasn’t mad at it 🤷🏻♀️. It was 🔥🫠. Damarion knows how to get a girl going 🤣. I just hope that whenever Austin wakes up (and Jessie agrees as well) that is even better 👀
— the side characters 🫶. I love Earl and Mr. Tom and Niamh and others… they better be okay as the series progresses; I won’t be able to handle their deaths
—THE DOLLLLLSSS 🤣🤣🤣. Look. If I’m gonna have those creepy dolls animated, they better be protecting me, and that’s exactly what they do for Jessie 👏🏻🤣. Now if only they weren’t creepy all the time 😬😅
What I didn’t like/wanted more of: possible spoilers
—the lack of 🔥. Listen. I am TWO books in now, and we STILL haven’t gotten any??? 😒😒😒. Sigh. Come ooooooonnnn 🤣🤣😑😑😑
—who will end up being her hero? It feels like it’s Austin, but I don’t wanna get my hopes up 🤣
—I hope Austin ain’t going around town either 👀. If Jessie’s not getting any, then he can’t get any either 🤣. Yeah. I don’t care that it isn’t fair 🤡 it’s fair in MY eyes 🤡
—more powers 👀. I really hope Jessie ends up getting more. That would be Baaaaad assssssss 👏🏻👏🏻
— whatever happened to her family/friend from back home? Really don’t get much info about anything going on with them 😬 especially her BFF that got this “job”
Overall, I’m enjoying it, but I need a lot more. I can’t believe there’s like 10 books in this series 🤣. I’ll always see some deaths in this one, I really hope none of the amazing side characters die 😭
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-no sex 😐 (not sure if it’s a trigger for anyone 🤣)
-violence/bloodshed/deaths
-OMD: there’s OM who is selected to protect the h. The h and OM kiss a couple of times (and she gets to see him stroking himself 😅). The “H” and the OM get into a couple of fights as well 😅(it’s the only action we saw 😒 bahahahah joking… but am I? lol)
-cliffy
August 14, 2020
I had a hard time getting into this one. Why, I wailed to myself, why does this have to read like a "middle" book. I didn't want Jessie to date . . . she has already *found* the right guy, why not just *go* there.
Somewhere about the 3rd chapter, I found myself really not caring if this was a "middle" book, or just more on the adventure. The characters created in this series are an absolute riot and I laughed all the way through, from the gargoyle Earl (who insists he is now Mr. Tom), to the looney toons gardening, and crocheting vampire Edgar, and the old bitty unicorn Naimh (and WHO KNEW that was pronounced Neeve). Are they over the top? Yes. But, they are drawn so creatively and so well that I just do not care. Or maybe the over the topness is what makes me love them. And, poor Jessie - just trying to keep sane when dealing with not only her nutty caretakers but the house that keeps wanting to use creepy dolls to save the day.
As I was reading and enjoying this "middle" book, I realized that this adventure *had* to happen. We couldn't actually get to the finale we are all hoping comes without the growth that happens here. While I could have done without the misdirecting arrival of a hunk of a gargoyle to set up a stupid love triangle, at least it was over quickly. (Though, I suspect we may not have seen the last of it.)
Ultimately, this book isn't about Jessie at all. She knows where she is and what she is doing. She is trying to learn her magic and make her way through this new world she has been thrust into. This book is about Austin, who knows what he is and what he should be but not how to get there. Jessie, with some help from her crazy cadre, shows him the way, and he arrives safely. OK, he at least arrives.
I am not sure how many books are planned for this series, and if this will finally *be* a middle book, but the events that unfold here are necessary for the story to move forward. They are not just filler pages to get from beginning to end. And, the ride is quite enjoyable.
Only 4 stars. Because - yea I could have done with the "romance" scene.
Somewhere about the 3rd chapter, I found myself really not caring if this was a "middle" book, or just more on the adventure. The characters created in this series are an absolute riot and I laughed all the way through, from the gargoyle Earl (who insists he is now Mr. Tom), to the looney toons gardening, and crocheting vampire Edgar, and the old bitty unicorn Naimh (and WHO KNEW that was pronounced Neeve). Are they over the top? Yes. But, they are drawn so creatively and so well that I just do not care. Or maybe the over the topness is what makes me love them. And, poor Jessie - just trying to keep sane when dealing with not only her nutty caretakers but the house that keeps wanting to use creepy dolls to save the day.
As I was reading and enjoying this "middle" book, I realized that this adventure *had* to happen. We couldn't actually get to the finale we are all hoping comes without the growth that happens here. While I could have done without the misdirecting arrival of a hunk of a gargoyle to set up a stupid love triangle, at least it was over quickly. (Though, I suspect we may not have seen the last of it.)
Ultimately, this book isn't about Jessie at all. She knows where she is and what she is doing. She is trying to learn her magic and make her way through this new world she has been thrust into. This book is about Austin, who knows what he is and what he should be but not how to get there. Jessie, with some help from her crazy cadre, shows him the way, and he arrives safely. OK, he at least arrives.
I am not sure how many books are planned for this series, and if this will finally *be* a middle book, but the events that unfold here are necessary for the story to move forward. They are not just filler pages to get from beginning to end. And, the ride is quite enjoyable.
Only 4 stars. Because - yea I could have done with the "romance" scene.
November 11, 2021
After LOVING book 1 and reading it several times, I obviously had high expectations for the next book in the series, and Breene didn’t disappoint. I sincerely applaud her for facing midlife dating head on without candy-coating anything. As a reader, you get sucked in easily and begin empathizing with Jessie on a whole other level. The hilarity of Jesse attempting (and failing) at online dating is epic and enthralling. The danger of being captured by other competing powerhouses is slow-building and takes a backseat to the dating for much of the book. The two plots somewhat conflict at times in the beginning before resolving into a cohesive story by the end. It’s refreshing that other men are introduced as potential love interests for Jessie instead of staying with Austin which would be easiest for Breene to write.
When Jessie stumbles through learning her powers and ends up summoning several waves of potential council-members to join her team, it gives the book an Avengers vibe again (similar to Sin & Lightning in her Demigods series). Yet unlike Avengers, Breene isn’t afraid of introducing characters that may or may not be a perfect fit for the team and the reader has to continue along the journey to see if they make the cut. And there may even be losses along the way. Even the main established characters encounter twists in their abilities making everything new and exciting. We see new species introduced, yet mostly gargoyles in this book, so I can’t wait to see what comes in the next wave of summons. I never thought even the main characters would have new twists, which makes me even more excited for the next book in the series. It’s brilliant. The main conflict certainly wraps up, but a new hook is set making you want the next book as soon as possible.
When Jessie stumbles through learning her powers and ends up summoning several waves of potential council-members to join her team, it gives the book an Avengers vibe again (similar to Sin & Lightning in her Demigods series). Yet unlike Avengers, Breene isn’t afraid of introducing characters that may or may not be a perfect fit for the team and the reader has to continue along the journey to see if they make the cut. And there may even be losses along the way. Even the main established characters encounter twists in their abilities making everything new and exciting. We see new species introduced, yet mostly gargoyles in this book, so I can’t wait to see what comes in the next wave of summons. I never thought even the main characters would have new twists, which makes me even more excited for the next book in the series. It’s brilliant. The main conflict certainly wraps up, but a new hook is set making you want the next book as soon as possible.
August 14, 2020
Magical Midlife Dating is the second book in K.F. Breene's Levelling Up series (if you haven't already read Magical Midlife Madness I'd highly recommend reading that book first) and it was another fun instalment.
I really love main character Jessie, at 40 she's older than a lot heroines and because of that she's confident in her own skin and knows what she wants from life. She spent her whole life not knowing that supernatural creatures were real so she's been really thrown in at the deep end by her move to a small town full of shapeshifters, vampires, gargoyles and more. Since taking over running Ivy House and inheriting her own magical powers Jessie has had a steep learning curve and knowing that she has dangerous enemies closing in means she needs to level up her abilities fast if she wants to be able to protect herself and the people she's coming to care about.
This series has been so much fun to read so far. The characters living in and around Ivy House are totally bonkers in the best kind of ways and I really enjoy the group banter and watching Jessie figure out how to reign in everyone's crazy impulses. I also really love the friendship between her and the town alpha, polar bear shifter Austin, I have high hopes for those two if Austin is ever willing to admit his feelings. This story sees an influx of gargoyles who arrive ready and willing to help Jessie learn to harness her magic, some I like more than others but it was definitely fun seeing them try to sort out their places in the hierarchy.
These books are really fun and easy reads and I can't wait to continue the series.
I really love main character Jessie, at 40 she's older than a lot heroines and because of that she's confident in her own skin and knows what she wants from life. She spent her whole life not knowing that supernatural creatures were real so she's been really thrown in at the deep end by her move to a small town full of shapeshifters, vampires, gargoyles and more. Since taking over running Ivy House and inheriting her own magical powers Jessie has had a steep learning curve and knowing that she has dangerous enemies closing in means she needs to level up her abilities fast if she wants to be able to protect herself and the people she's coming to care about.
This series has been so much fun to read so far. The characters living in and around Ivy House are totally bonkers in the best kind of ways and I really enjoy the group banter and watching Jessie figure out how to reign in everyone's crazy impulses. I also really love the friendship between her and the town alpha, polar bear shifter Austin, I have high hopes for those two if Austin is ever willing to admit his feelings. This story sees an influx of gargoyles who arrive ready and willing to help Jessie learn to harness her magic, some I like more than others but it was definitely fun seeing them try to sort out their places in the hierarchy.
These books are really fun and easy reads and I can't wait to continue the series.
October 20, 2022
2.5
Well, that was a disappointment. I did not enjoy this book as much as the first one, mostly because it was extremely angsty-romancy. I get it, the title is Magical Midlife Dating, but I did not realize there was going to be so much blushing and swooning.
I can't count how many times I had to read sentences talking about "bulging muscles" and "popping pecs." The muscle shows, sexual tension, and male dominance displays were a bit excessive. And even after reading all that, Jessie doesn't even get some. Like, at least have ONE erotic scene if the whole book is going to be sexually fraught.
Lastly, the main female character (Jessie) seemed a lot less independent and self assured than she did in the first novel. I realize her situation was new and confusing, but she seemed to be missing the strength and fire that she displayed in Magical Midlife Madness.
There were aspects of the novel that I did like. For instance, I did enjoy some of the newly introduced characters and the fighting scenes were nice. Also, I liked reading about Jessie's journey of magical growth and her overall capability improvement.
I may attempt the next book, and just hope it has a little less sexual angst, and fewer "flaring, flexing, popping, and bulging" muscles. We'll see....
Well, that was a disappointment. I did not enjoy this book as much as the first one, mostly because it was extremely angsty-romancy. I get it, the title is Magical Midlife Dating, but I did not realize there was going to be so much blushing and swooning.
I can't count how many times I had to read sentences talking about "bulging muscles" and "popping pecs." The muscle shows, sexual tension, and male dominance displays were a bit excessive. And even after reading all that, Jessie doesn't even get some. Like, at least have ONE erotic scene if the whole book is going to be sexually fraught.
Lastly, the main female character (Jessie) seemed a lot less independent and self assured than she did in the first novel. I realize her situation was new and confusing, but she seemed to be missing the strength and fire that she displayed in Magical Midlife Madness.
There were aspects of the novel that I did like. For instance, I did enjoy some of the newly introduced characters and the fighting scenes were nice. Also, I liked reading about Jessie's journey of magical growth and her overall capability improvement.
I may attempt the next book, and just hope it has a little less sexual angst, and fewer "flaring, flexing, popping, and bulging" muscles. We'll see....
May 14, 2021
2.3 Stars
DNF 45%
I enjoyed the first book, unfortunately this one was a disappointment. The heroine at this point is quite powerful but she acted weak and insecure most of the time, and her main objective in life appeared to be to go out on dates. Twice I force myself to continue reading but I kept getting distracted, I couldn't connect with the heroine.
DNF 45%
I enjoyed the first book, unfortunately this one was a disappointment. The heroine at this point is quite powerful but she acted weak and insecure most of the time, and her main objective in life appeared to be to go out on dates. Twice I force myself to continue reading but I kept getting distracted, I couldn't connect with the heroine.
August 1, 2022
3 1/2 ⭐️’s this was another fun entry in this series. Jess starts dating some duds with disastrous results and comes into her power while dealing with her elderly crew of protectors and fending off her attraction to her hunky alpha-not-alpha buddy. It made me laugh and for that it gets many stars.
April 23, 2026
Great second installment. I’m probably in the minority here but I kinda love a love triangle. Particularly because Austin needs some motivation to stop being an idiot. Damarion being a bit of a slimy git so early on ruined it a bit for me. He never felt like real competition.
So many fun little tidbits. The Basajuan, her horrible dates, THE CREEPY LITTLE DOLLS! There is magic, humor and whimsy in every part of this story.
So many fun little tidbits. The Basajuan, her horrible dates, THE CREEPY LITTLE DOLLS! There is magic, humor and whimsy in every part of this story.
March 27, 2026
Loving this series so far! The whole, “women are too old at 40” got awfully old and actually came across as annoyingly silly. What woman at 40 is dressing acting like a 70 year old? Other than that quibble, the entire story is just all kinds of fun.
April 14, 2020
Totally fun! Kick-ass characters with laugh out loud dialogue
August 14, 2020
3.5 stars - I liked this second book, the leading lady is still appealing and I still like the supporting cast, plus a couple of new additions. I look forward to the next.
September 8, 2020
Hysterical. I really like these characters, too.
April 27, 2021
Good second book
I like this series so far, but I don't think it is as good as the Demigods of San Francisco.
I like this series so far, but I don't think it is as good as the Demigods of San Francisco.
May 20, 2021
These very special geriatric characters are priceless. Love the style of humor. And the cursed dolls are just next level funny.
August 22, 2020
This is a series you read when you don’t want to think, you just want to be entertained. And right now, who couldn’t use a little of that.
I wanted to like this more but it wasn’t as engaging or as funny as the first.
Magical Midlife Dating is not just a middle-aged fantasy, it is a middle-aged mom fantasy. While there is nothing wrong with that, I don't really relate but I could totally see others loving that aspect.
As a middle-aged woman, I found the… well, not so much love as sex interest annoying. Damarion is a douchebag and the whole possible relationship was absurd. I’d like to believe Jessie has outgrown that type of bullshit. (Also, she’s a grown woman and it actually comes off a little creepy how she reacts to men she finds sexy. If she was a middle-aged dude acting that way, it would creep me the fuck out.)
The pacing seemed off, not just in this book but in the overall arc of the story. I wish more happened and I wish Jessie was more proactive. Things seem to meander along and the conflicts felt contrived. There are magical baddies trying to kidnap Jessie at the behest of some mysterious Big Bad (spoiler alert: it’s exactly who you think it is.), who are enabled by the incompetance of her team.
About halfway through, I thought about giving up. Not because it was that bad but because it wasn’t good enough for me to care. I powered through anyway and it got better.
I don’t know if I will continue with this series. If we are still quarantining when it comes out, then probably.
I wanted to like this more but it wasn’t as engaging or as funny as the first.
Magical Midlife Dating is not just a middle-aged fantasy, it is a middle-aged mom fantasy. While there is nothing wrong with that, I don't really relate but I could totally see others loving that aspect.
As a middle-aged woman, I found the… well, not so much love as sex interest annoying. Damarion is a douchebag and the whole possible relationship was absurd. I’d like to believe Jessie has outgrown that type of bullshit. (Also, she’s a grown woman and it actually comes off a little creepy how she reacts to men she finds sexy. If she was a middle-aged dude acting that way, it would creep me the fuck out.)
The pacing seemed off, not just in this book but in the overall arc of the story. I wish more happened and I wish Jessie was more proactive. Things seem to meander along and the conflicts felt contrived. There are magical baddies trying to kidnap Jessie at the behest of some mysterious Big Bad (spoiler alert: it’s exactly who you think it is.), who are enabled by the incompetance of her team.
About halfway through, I thought about giving up. Not because it was that bad but because it wasn’t good enough for me to care. I powered through anyway and it got better.
I don’t know if I will continue with this series. If we are still quarantining when it comes out, then probably.
October 9, 2020
I liked the first book but i truly loved the second. This one got more in depth with the relationships between the characters in the book. She is learning her powers, both magically and as a woman. The creepy dolls round the story out for me though lol.
October 14, 2020
Amazon, y u no transfer my reviews?!
This book is hilarious. You like gargoyles? Killer dolls? Possessed houses? How about alpha-males, or a middle-aged protagonist that's learning the ropes of magical society and the powers that come with her new position? Check out this series.
This book is hilarious. You like gargoyles? Killer dolls? Possessed houses? How about alpha-males, or a middle-aged protagonist that's learning the ropes of magical society and the powers that come with her new position? Check out this series.
July 19, 2025
Magical Midlife Dating was a great read. Breene is talented, IMO. And I don't think I'm spoiling anything when I write that she makes great use of murderous dolls. Yep, the old murder doll trope. I laughed a ton while reading about them and some other (probably goofy) action.
September 19, 2024
I'm confused about how this recently divorced and learning to thrive and enjoy independence suddenly needs to start dating? She needs help to (as in someone to take over) run her magical life and all it entails?
The first was cute enough. I'm not sure if I'll continue after this one.
The first was cute enough. I'm not sure if I'll continue after this one.
October 18, 2020
Can’t wait!
October 3, 2024
3.5 Still having Fun Stars
Is it as good as the first book yes/no/actually I'm not really sure. There are parts I liked better but then there are also parts I didn't like because it felt a little done. So I will meet in the middle and say that I am still having a good time with Jessie and her gang of protectors.
Things to have a good time with.
The humor. That is still there full bore and I can say that I totally thought the room full of dolls that protect the house was awesome as well as creepy. SO CREEPY, yet hilarious. Also Jessie putting out some kind of come help me vibes so Gargoyles start showing up to be a part of her circle. Let's just say that Pink is my favorite color. Austin the not-alpha Polar bear is yummy yummy yummy and I'm totally a "bears" fan. Mr Tom brings such a dry wit and fun banter to the book that I have the best time when he is on page.
Things I could have done without
Dating. I probably could have done without the dating. I mean being magical trying to date non-magical guys just to get your feet wet while a little funny was also a bit sad. Also, probably pretty true of most dating app type experiences. I like Jessie overall and can see how this was a great teaching moment for her to not fall into the same patterns she had in her marriage but the almost love triangle situation we had for a minute was annoying. Also forgot-his-name-alpha-gargoyle was a little on the cringe side of it all.
But overall
Well I did have fun in the book and we could have turned how many times does someone try to kidnap Jessie into a drinking game. Jessie learned to trust herself and stand her ground. We got a few tips on how not to woo women and learned some new things about Gargoyles.
I still love that Jessie's entire crew are all grown up that look like grown ups and are above the age of 40. Heroines don't need to be in their 20s to have a good story.
Narration:
I listened to the Graphic audio version with a full cast and sound effects that really worked to bring the story to life. I really enjoyed how well all of the characters were portrayed and having so many voices makes it easy to tell who is who and have a little more fun with the humor of the story.
“Just because you are trying a new thing, doesn’t mean you need to let go of what you’ve already learned,”
Is it as good as the first book yes/no/actually I'm not really sure. There are parts I liked better but then there are also parts I didn't like because it felt a little done. So I will meet in the middle and say that I am still having a good time with Jessie and her gang of protectors.
Things to have a good time with.
The humor. That is still there full bore and I can say that I totally thought the room full of dolls that protect the house was awesome as well as creepy. SO CREEPY, yet hilarious. Also Jessie putting out some kind of come help me vibes so Gargoyles start showing up to be a part of her circle. Let's just say that Pink is my favorite color. Austin the not-alpha Polar bear is yummy yummy yummy and I'm totally a "bears" fan. Mr Tom brings such a dry wit and fun banter to the book that I have the best time when he is on page.
Things I could have done without
Dating. I probably could have done without the dating. I mean being magical trying to date non-magical guys just to get your feet wet while a little funny was also a bit sad. Also, probably pretty true of most dating app type experiences. I like Jessie overall and can see how this was a great teaching moment for her to not fall into the same patterns she had in her marriage but the almost love triangle situation we had for a minute was annoying. Also forgot-his-name-alpha-gargoyle was a little on the cringe side of it all.
But overall
Well I did have fun in the book and we could have turned how many times does someone try to kidnap Jessie into a drinking game. Jessie learned to trust herself and stand her ground. We got a few tips on how not to woo women and learned some new things about Gargoyles.
I still love that Jessie's entire crew are all grown up that look like grown ups and are above the age of 40. Heroines don't need to be in their 20s to have a good story.
“There is nothing wrong with me. I’ve earned the right to look my age and still get taken seriously”
Narration:
I listened to the Graphic audio version with a full cast and sound effects that really worked to bring the story to life. I really enjoyed how well all of the characters were portrayed and having so many voices makes it easy to tell who is who and have a little more fun with the humor of the story.
October 22, 2020
I liked the first book. The characters were hysterical. So, despite the bad reviews, I picked up the second book and was instantly disapointed. Why, why, why? The whole premise of the first book was destroyed. She went from being this really strong kickass character to a wuss that needed a man. And not just any man, but a hot one that she was attracted to but not particularly liked(?) I hate to say this but I find that's the problem with all Breene's books. The female character starts off strong but by the second book she's a wuss that depends on her mate, guard, demon, boyfriend...
April 16, 2021
Book #1 was humorous fantasy but was full of gems such as this that highlight how men frequently think of women: “I’d attempted to talk to Matt about the dangers women faced, and he’d blown me off. That wasn’t his reality, and therefore my fear wasn’t justified. The minute, day-to-day suffering women faced for being women wasn’t real.”
Book 2 has the protagonist thinking about and preparing for sex with the strongest man on the team she leads. That’s an unpleasant and unexpected turn.
Book 2 has the protagonist thinking about and preparing for sex with the strongest man on the team she leads. That’s an unpleasant and unexpected turn.
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