Stop Kidding Around

Magical Mates #2

by Macy Blake

His so-called mate thinks it’s fate. Toby has other ideas.

When Toby Sanders shows up to interview for a teaching job at a mysterious estate, he’s not expecting his world to flip upside down and backward.

Shifters are real… and the hottest, most protective wolf of all is claiming him as a mate.

Toby can’t deny that Brooks is everything he ever wanted and never thought he could have--loving, strong, drop-dead gorgeous--or that the two little girls Brooks wants to adopt give Toby a glimpse of the family he’s always dreamed of…
But how the heck is he supposed to believe in this mating magic stuff when life has taught him that the only person he can count on is himself?

As dangers from multiple sources threaten everything he’s come to care about, Toby learns that being part of a pack isn’t just about accepting his fate, it’s about choice: choosing to trust Brooks, choosing to believe in himself, and choosing to fight for the life and love he deserves, even if he has to cross the entire fae realm to do it.

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Fantasy, Shapeshifters, Romance, Magic, Paranormal Romance

307 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 15, 2020

About the author

Macy Blake believes in unicorns and fairies, in moonbeams and stardust, and that happily ever after comes in all colors of the rainbow. When she’s not busy at the day job, she loses herself in paranormal romance, living vicariously through her favorite sexy fictional heroes. These days you can often find her pounding away at the keyboard, trying to capture the magic of her own worlds.

Reviews

[☆ Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

The romance aspects of the story between Toby and Brooks was more than fine, but it was pretty much *EVERYTHING ELSE* in this book that really had me damn near swooning chapter after chapter after chapter. : )



Immediately upon Toby reporting to the Smith pack compound for a mysterious job interview that no one seemed to know anything about, he had an immediate (and mutual) attraction to Brooks, so the usual and expected "you're my mate, let's see where that leads us" story began.

While Toby was tentative and nervous, Brooks was all in right from the get go, but sensitive and supportive toward Toby's feelings, which I appreciated. Not a super-exciting romance plot, but sure, I could work with that.

But heavily woven around the MC's working out their love connection were other friendships that were forming and, oh boy, those were the ones that I found the most compelling and entertaining.

Which brings us to... OLLIE!!! : )



That kid has been my absolute favorite character in the entire "Chosen One" universe, with world-class banter, impeccable humor, and a side of adorability thrown in for good measure.

Over the course of the stories, we've seen him grow from a precocious 6 y.o. into a competent, fun-loving adult, and I'm dying to see him get his own story and praying that his mate will be deserving of such a prize.

My other favorite side character from this story was a broody, little emo rain cloud named Jeremy. I adored how hard he tried to remain aloof in the beginning, then slowly warmed up to Toby's repeated attempts to engage him. He was one of those kids whose trust wasn't easy to win, but well worth the effort in the end.

Hand to God, after Toby and his group of kids had fled from the one and only battle in the story, I was literally screaming at my eReader, "Toby, you'd better ADOPT Jeremy or I'm climbing in there and doing it myself!" Ridiculous, I know, but nonetheless true. heh

Also, if you're a fan of Alpha Nick, he really stepped up his game in this story, with so much on-point humor that it was insane.

For those who found little Gus' one-word "cuteness" bordering on annoying in the last story, the two little girls in this story were very much off-page for the vast majority of this book, but spoke in full (non-annoying) sentences when they were present.

In regards to the steam, much like I found the romance, it was *there*, but I found it to be pretty subdued.

Overall, I'd rate this book at around 4.25 stars and recommend it to any fans of the "Chosen One" universe.

** Note: Since there are tons and tons and TONS of both characters and references to past events in this universe, I would *not* really consider this a standalone book.

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This book is *FREE* with Kindle Unlimited membership.

[Valerie ❈M/M Romance Junkie❈ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful addition to the Chosen One Universe.

I loved seeing the kids pick (even if the choice seems odd).

I loved the budding friendship of Toby and Ollie.

I loved scene stealing, ‘nack loving Gus (he’s such an adorable character).

OMG the “talk” 😳 I am pretty sure that’s one of the VERY few times some realism was brought into the sex discussions. It may not be romantic, but I know I always wonder how the 💩 seems to just magically not exist when anal sex happens.

It seems like I’m not mentioning the relationship of MCs and their story. I feel like this is more of a love story of chosen families. I just loved it all. I can’t wait for more.


reread 3/15/2021 I can’t wait to see who is next.


Suggested Reading Order
Sweet Nothings – Prequel – The Chosen One
The Trouble With Love – Nothing But Trouble, Book 1
Santa Trouble – Nothing But Trouble, Book 2
All or Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 1
Nothing Ventured – The Chosen One, Book 2
Hell on Earth – Hellhound Champions, Book 1
Double or Nothing
Next to Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 3
Hell To Pay – Hellhound Champions, Book 2
Give Him Hell – Hellhound Champions, Book 3
Nothing Gained – The Chosen One, Book 4
Stop at Nothing – The Chosen One, Book 5
Sweet Spot
All Kidding Aside – Magical Mates, Book 1
Stop Kidding Around – Magical Mates, Book 2
I Kid You Not – Magical Mates, Book 3
Sugar Honey Iced Tea – Magical Mates, Book 3.5
Hell Breaks Loose – Hellhound Champions, Book 4
Logan – Chosen Champions, Book 1
Gideon – Chosen Champions, Book 2
Jamal – Chosen Champions, Book 2.5
Cosmo and the King
Aleron – Chosen Champions, Book 3
Scout – Chosen Champions, Book 4
With Kid Gloves – Magical Mates, Book 4

[Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stop Kidding Around was delightfully cute, and while the kids definitely played a major role in the story, they didn't seem to take it over, like I felt they did in book 1. I was pleasantly surprised by this! I enjoyed Toby and Brooks' courtship quite a lot, as well. Toby's bashful uncertainty and Brooks' devoted patience won me over. Plus, I loved that Toby was so passionate about mythology! Thank the Goddess, he found his way to the Smith pack. 

I do enjoy the Chosen One universe, and Stop Kidding Around was definitely a winner.

[Cæsar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quintessential!!!

I don’t know how many times I’ve read this book! Impeccable!!!
This story was absolutely immaculate, the main characters were perfect, their connection was flawless, the intimate scenes were magical, although I would extended the last one, the adventure part was truly exciting! Congratulations to Michael Dean for this master piece!!!

This book is definitely one of my favourites, the vulnerability displayed here was unexpected totally enthralling, it was builded magnificently, I’m completely addicted!!!

I have this book on Audible as well, impressive performance from Michael Dean, I noticed that the voices of the characters changed a few times, it made a little confusing, however his acting was superb, fully committed! High praises to him!!!

6⭐️

[Barbara➰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread February 2024

Really enjoying my rereads of this series.

Originally read December 2020

I'm always happy to visit the Chosen Universe. Toby and Brooks were great characters, even if Toby got on my nerves for a while with his denial. They push through it, and of course, it's a HEA romance-wise. I cannot wait for Ollie's story! He's awesome. Nick really stood out as well, and I love how protective he is over everyone he considers his.

So, another great addition to the universe. I'll be anxiously waiting for the next one.

[Jennifer☠Pher☠ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love being back in this world. It's really one of my favorite places. I love all the cameos and story continuations. It all just stays fresh and I'm in to it.

This addition was no different. I will admit I struggled a little bit with Toby but it wasn't because I didn't get where he was coming from. I totally did. I just felt it was too much back and forth and I wanted it resolved faster. I can't help it!

But really, it is all a-ok because everything else in these stories just smooths out any bumps in the road. The kids, the Fae, the Hellhounds, really, everyone!

I can not wait for more!

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somehow I missed this one out

Not sure why I hadn't read this one before as I've had it since it came out.

Anyways, it's fabulous, like all the rest of the Chosen Ones Universe books are.

It's emotional, funny, sexy, packed with action and adventure and draws on my favourite mythologies for inspiration.

Here we get a human teacher drawn into the middle of the Smith Pack and finding his forever family.

I loved it!

[Len Evans Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Adore this extensive series!!!

Really have grown to love these people. Will have to continue on in the side series, because I definitely want more!!!!

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

In terms of the adult romance, I liked this one better than All Kidding Aside because, well, Toby NEEDED TIME before they all doing the horizontal tango. I mean, yes, Brooks realized Toby was his mate the moment he laid eyes on the teacher. But since Toby was human, and this world was all new to him, PLUS he never had good experience related to sex, Brooks practically "wooed" him first. You know, with dates, quadruple BOWLING dates, sitting near each other, reading, and so on... totally my thing!

BUT, like I said on my opinion for that first book, I'm here for THE KIDS. Gus Gus made my heart all gooey in the first book. So with Daisy and Marigold -- the two girls that Brooks wanted to adopt and already claimed Toby as part of their packs -- didn't have much time on scene, I was not a happy bunny.

At least Ollie made up for it (I am determined to read Ollie's first appearance now) as well as the moody Jeremy. But still, it's not enough for me *pout*

[Nanna Mørk-Sander · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good, I like the compound, the pack, Toby's friendship with Ollie and Jeremy.

But it was also lacking a little something for me. I don't know if it was because Brooks and Toby had similar voices that made it a little difficult to distinguish them at times, or if their connection just wasn't that strong for me.

Toby is a great character and I enjoyed seeing him becoming a part of the Smith pack, but other than that, nothing much really happens. Yes, stuff goes down, but nothing also really changes.

[Kaity · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

out of all the books from Macy Blake I have read recently, the "Magical Mates" series is my favorite. I don't think that you have to read every single book in order to really enjoy this series, i would say the "Chosen One" series will get you enough background for this series. But if you do need all the background then you have a ways to go before you can read these books haha.

I loved how considerate Brooks was with Toby and how they communicated their needs and what made them uncomfortable as well as what they were looking for. Communication my friends is everything in books like this, we don't need stupid miscommunication ruining a perfectly good romance!

I really hope that Ollies book comes soon, I know its not the next one, but hopefully book 4...? Ollie is slowly becoming a star in these books and the more i read of him the more i want him to find his mate or mates depending on what the author has planned.

[Janet (iamltr) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you re-read stories you always find something new. On this one, I paid more attention to the things going on around Toby and Brooks.

There is a major age gap here, not to mention a major life gap. Toby is so young that he was a virgin because he thought he was bad at sex. The whole going to talk to Vaughn with Ollie was awesome. I laughed a lot during those scenes.

Also, something I didn't notice in all the other re-reads, is the actual lack of sex. Let's face it, up until this story, there was always something sexual going on. But not in this one. Which I didn't even notice was missing.

I still love this world.

___________________________________________________________

Le sigh

This one was so sweet you could get a cavity, I swear.

Like a few other stories in this universe, the overall arc was not about the couple, but the times they interacted were lovely.

Toby was a human going on a job interview when he landed in the paranormal world. He finds his mate, his children, and his pack all on the same day.

This is a re-read for me, so I know that there are no more stories in this series, which is a shame. I feel like there were so many different things that were not resolved.

Like always, follow the suggested reading order for the universe, it makes most of this easier to understand.

[Badh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, I love this world so much. I don't care what series you're talking about, I just want to read anything that's a part of it. So, when a new book about the Smith Pack shows up, yeah, sign me right the heck up.

Toby, oh sweet and wonderful Toby. He doesn't know what he's getting into when he heads in for his interview, but he just takes everything in stride. Well, mostly. But he does see a lot of children there and he's a teacher, so... I do love how truly sweet Toby is. He has a huge heart and he wants to help all the kids. I love how he interacts with Jeremy, and gets Jeremy to open up without pushing and prodding. That takes true skill.

Brooks is a joy as well. He loves the kids too, especially two wonderful little girls. He wants to make sure that they are all taken care of, and he really deserves his mate, and I think that he's perfect for Toby.

I love that Ollie and Toby become friends. I also love that Toby karate chop Draco in the nose.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's just say that RL was put on hold the minute this baby popped up... *grin*

Thank you, Ms. Blake, for sharing your wonderful talent of storytelling, and especially a BIG thanks for the thorough editing and proofreading that is found in all of your books!

As for Brooks and Toby? When has this author let us down when it comes to amazing characters? Yeah, NEVER!!! :D

Of course, you already know before you start reading who is going to steal the show... THE KIDS!!!

Now, I guess we will just have to wait for Magical Mates 3... and wait... and wait... LOL!!!

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! I love this world that the author has created!! Toby has been invited for an interview at a prestigious school. When He arrives, nothing is as it seems. Brooks is a wolf shifter and when he meets Toby, he realizes that he’s met his mate. Loved Daisy and Marigold!! The world building is phenomenal in the story line!! I’m voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received.

[Vivo · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was enjoyable read. But Macy's books really bad for my diet, they always made me hungry and craving sweets.

[Achim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars

The next installment in Macy Blake’s Magical Mates series is here, and oh it is good. As usual with this series, and all the books in this complex universe, it’s doesn’t work completely as a standalone. This one, more than others, at least has plenty of explanation. Blake manages to give the reader all the information that Toby needs without it feeling like a repeat of everything that’s come before. And Toby’s unique POV to the situation, as well as his knowledge of mythology, helps to put it into a new perspective for the characters. I thought Blake handled this all really well, and walked a fine line of providing all the information needed without it feeling like an info dump or repetitive.

Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.

[Natalie H · Rating 4 out of 5]

All I can think about is Toby punching Draco in the face 😂. Unlike the first one, this one focuses on multiple children and not just the ones they’re adopting. I liked how fearless and knowledgeable Toby was, but still had his insecurities from previous experiences. I’m looking forward to seeing who Ollie has as a mate. The sweet tooth thing is cute and I enjoyed how all the kids had disarmed everyone. Really need to go back and read Nick’s story.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying this book better than the first. When you find your mate and all that means, it doesn't mean you don't have to work for it. I really enjoyed the sacrifices Brooks was willing to make for his mate. I loved the innocence of Toby. I loved how they pulled together for their family. People in this world are still encountering danger but there is no kidding around when children are involved.

[Liya · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is sweet and funny. The Smith pack is adorable with all the kids and Nick's antics. Toby fits right in though he has his doubts. Being a human with limited relationships and sexual experience Toby also doubts his ability to be a good mate for a wolf shifter Brooks. But Brooks is there for him all the way and woos his mate with constant reassurance, patience and love.
It was all nice but at a certain point I wanted less kids and pack dynamics and more personal time and sex. The book is considerably lower on steam than any other Macy Blake book. Also, at times it felt too crowded.
The book is not a stand-alone, you need to be familiar with heroes from other books to fully enjoy this one.

[SC · Rating 4 out of 5]

solid 4 stars

Here's the thing. I loved, LOVED the first book. Something about the guys and Gus and just everything. Of course, I was excited for this one because I'm thinking I'm going to like this series as much as I have liked oh, all the others written under this pen name. However, I gotta say, it wasn't quite as strong for me. Hear me out.



Toby was super adorable, he was awkward and sweet and funny. He was wounded and I just really liked his character. Brooks was just patient and strong and soft. He was exactly what Toby needed. The problem? We didn't really get a lot of time with them as a couple. I wanted to see them interact more, talk more, instead, we're just kinda told about it. Also, the girls, cute. But I didn't really get the connection between them and Toby, Brooks? Yes, but Toby not so much.

Ultimately, it was good. I enjoyed it. I freaking loved all the Ollie time we got and now I feel like I need to go back and find out who the tiger was because oh man, Ollie is next right????? In any case, yes, this is a series I'll be sticking to, this is a series I'm excited for, and that's been hard to come across for me lately.

[Jacquie Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is beyond adorable! Fated mates and found family are a fantastic combination.
Toby is drawn to the compound with an offer of a teaching job and on arrival meets his mate Brooks and the 2 little girls destinined to be theirs.
Lower in steam than book 1 because Toby has issues (a talk with Vaughan is hilarious) but the real connection Brooks and Toby have makes up for that.
Characters from other stories appear (I won't spoil but I'm glad to see them again) and Gus steals every scene he's in.
The focus is less on the girls which make sense as all the children are Toby's responsibility and his perspective as a human in their world is really useful, saving their butt's more than once

[Judy Ferrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A human!

Toby, a human, ends up in the magical world. Brooks is his mate. Magic is trying to fix itself. Great reading!

[Teal Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stop Kidding Around by Macy Blake is the second story in the Magical Mates series.  This is a fun read full of action, humor, love (romantic and family) and magic.  I love all the characters, they really do bring a smile to my face as I read about their adventures and interactions.  The story kept my interest and made me excited to read more books in the series.  Amazing!

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this so so much!! The kids are the cutest part about this series but it doesn’t take away from how great the adults and MCs are. That being said, I really loved getting to see Gus, Victor, and Riggs again. Gus is still the cutest thing!! His antics towards the end had me dying of laughter!

Toby and Brooks make such a great couple! And I loved seeing how patient and kind Brooks was in regards to his mate. I’ll admit, I thought Toby was hinting at being Asexual and was excited to see some ace rep...but unfortunately it was just a case of bad sexual experiences in the last. Don’t get me wrong, Toby’s insecurities were written really well! I just think it would’ve been a great opportunity to introduce an asexual character❤️

I’m glad we got some answers for the magical happenings that have been going on in this series. I’m really interested to see how events play out!

This is a great addition to the Magical Mates series and I can’t wait for more!

5 Stars

[Raven and Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these book!!!!!

Anytime a new book in the Chosen One universe publishes, I get a whole lot excited! I adore these children that Nick is protecting. And poor Toby getting blindsided with the magic and everything. He is too adorkable. And the picture of Brooks with those two little girls is perfection. I remember Brooks from the prequel story of how Sam and Vaughn met. I am so glad we get his happy story here. Two words.....bowling scene! I was laughing so hard. I loved this book! I can't wait to see how each of the kids gets adopted. Nick and Jedreck really have something special going on with their pack.

[Ali · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really enjoying this world and all the characters connected with it. I have read many of the books but not quite all of them. Toby is so confused when he ends up at the school and no one expecting him and then his life gets even weirder as he meets more and more people and the kids there. I loved the patience that Brooks has, all he wants is his mate and his girls, the rest is just window dressing. Toby took a little bit to accept all the changes that were thrust upon him but he really found a family that love and accepts him and he hasn't had that in a long time.

I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review

[Kaila · Rating 5 out of 5]

omg this series just makes me happy.. all together happy... this story was everything i didnt know i neede.d it was amazing.. it was funny.. and it was all kinds of emotional rollercoaster. i loved that it wasnt easy.. it wasnt just wam bam you are now mates. nope they had to fight to become what they needed to be and who they needed to be. i loved it so much and cannot wait for the next one.

[Brandyn {Nyn} · Rating 5 out of 5]

ᑭᗴᖇᖴᗴᑕTᒪY ᕼIᒪᗩᖇIOᑌᔕ a⃨n⃨d⃨ ᔕᗯOOᑎY

I absolutely adored this book!! Toby & Brooks are just the sweetest, most swoony, and completely awkward couple. Daisy & Marigold are too precious for words, and also “YᗩY” for Gus cameos!!
I am so very much enjoying this new ‘Chosen’ series and ᑕᗩᑎᑎOT wait for the next installment. I have 2 guesses about the “known to us” main character and can’t wait to see which one it is!!