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Leveling Up #5
Magical Midlife Meeting
It's time for a magical battle Jessie isn't sure she's prepared for.
Elliot Graves has been a thorn in Jessie's side since before she agreed to take the house magic. He has constantly brought the fight to her doorstep.
Not this time.
With the help of Austin's shifters, the Ivy house crew will meet Elliot Graves in one of the most dangerous places imaginable - his home turf.
But not before another creature joins the circle.
Elliot Graves has been a thorn in Jessie's side since before she agreed to take the house magic. He has constantly brought the fight to her doorstep.
Not this time.
With the help of Austin's shifters, the Ivy house crew will meet Elliot Graves in one of the most dangerous places imaginable - his home turf.
But not before another creature joins the circle.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2021
4935 people are currently reading
3393 people want to read
About the author
K.F. Breene
120 books14.4k 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.
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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!
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 1,051 reviews
October 20, 2025
Omg it was just so good. Everything I wanted. I was so tense I chewed my poor fingernails to nothing.
This series has the distinction of being the first and only series I read on KU that I then purchased. I just love it so much that it has to be mine. The mains are amazing. The secondary cast is amazing. I love the story, the humor, the pacing, how it all unfolds.
Firmly on my favorites list, and will read again and again.
Re-Read October 2025
This one is another particular favorite in this series. Even on re-read, I'm on pins and needles worried about how it can possibly work out. I've surprised myself with how much I like "the weird mage", as Niamh would say.
This series has the distinction of being the first and only series I read on KU that I then purchased. I just love it so much that it has to be mine. The mains are amazing. The secondary cast is amazing. I love the story, the humor, the pacing, how it all unfolds.
Firmly on my favorites list, and will read again and again.
Re-Read October 2025
This one is another particular favorite in this series. Even on re-read, I'm on pins and needles worried about how it can possibly work out. I've surprised myself with how much I like "the weird mage", as Niamh would say.
April 9, 2021
Just wrapped up reading the ARC. This book is probably the best yet in this series. Leveling Up is the best series I've read about gargoyles, hands down. Most memorable things:
· I laughed so hard at the banter, guys. As usual! There were some uncomfortably comical situations regarding shifter nudity that had me rolling, too.
· The antics - Edgar was freaking amazingly hilarious in this one, along with the rest of the crew. "Whoopie!" LOL
· Austin Steele is freaking sexy as hell. Like, if there were any reservations about this character (I had none) this would be the one that makes you go "why wasn't I shipping it before now?" Holy smoke show...
· I'm glad this series isn't over yet. There is much more story to tell, and I couldn't be happier with how it's worked out so far.
· The new characters introduced are awesome, and can't wait for more of them. Especially Brochan.
There are so many things that make this series unique. To me, the biggest draw is the 40 year old MC. Jess is relatable in a way that other protagonists are not. Which makes her journey into the magical realm that much more enjoyable.
4.75 ⭐
· I laughed so hard at the banter, guys. As usual! There were some uncomfortably comical situations regarding shifter nudity that had me rolling, too.
· The antics - Edgar was freaking amazingly hilarious in this one, along with the rest of the crew. "Whoopie!" LOL
· Austin Steele is freaking sexy as hell. Like, if there were any reservations about this character (I had none) this would be the one that makes you go "why wasn't I shipping it before now?" Holy smoke show...
· I'm glad this series isn't over yet. There is much more story to tell, and I couldn't be happier with how it's worked out so far.
· The new characters introduced are awesome, and can't wait for more of them. Especially Brochan.
There are so many things that make this series unique. To me, the biggest draw is the 40 year old MC. Jess is relatable in a way that other protagonists are not. Which makes her journey into the magical realm that much more enjoyable.
4.75 ⭐
December 20, 2025
In the next book in the Magical Midlife series, we finally take on Elliot Graves! He's been an enemy since the very first books (or is he?!?). Instead of letting Graves bring the battle to Ivy house, they decide to take the battle to him... under his mountain. I love Graves, I'm just going to put that out there. I. LOVE. ELLIOT GRAVES! Oh! Er... I mean, beat his a$$! Meanwhile, things are really, really heating up between Jessie and Austin, I mean, really, REALLY heat up! Sigh, I need a full re-read of the entire series so far!
January 1, 2022
The epic battle between Elliot Graves and Jessie’s crew FINALLY comes to a head! I feel like it’s uncommon for Breene to drag out such a battle, but I’m glad she did. As torturous as it’s been, it’s oh so worth it. It’s truly difficult to write this without spoilers, but after the revelation about Sebastian in book 4, his motives and actions become so much clearer. This is truly the book in the series where Breene showcases her storytelling. It’s nothing shy of pure brilliance. So much is explained, and though there’s PLENTY of conflict, she continue to builds the suspense by shifting the focus to an even greater threat than Graves.
In true Breene fashion, now that Jessie has found her mate, she unabashedly adds quite a bit more sexy-time; though it’s with a purpose. I think she would have done the series a disservice if she would have followed the footsteps of many other PWF authors to fade to black instead of including their intimacies. By now, Jessie’s almost fully accepted herself with all her strengths and flaws which is what makes her so enjoyable to read. She has the passion, love, and strength of a mother which I like so many connect with. She becomes even tougher than before, which makes this one of my favorite books so far in the series.
My only criticism is it centers around a situation similar to the end of her Demigods series in that Jessie and her team must travel to Grave’s mountain and compete against other teams in both formal battles, and skirmishes that can happen when moving around the public areas. Thankfully the final battle sets this series apart from the other, but it’s enough of a similarity that it did grate my nerves. It does make sense, and much is revealed, but I wish she didn’t use the same themes in successful series.
In all, I devoured this book in an inhuman amount of time, and though there isn’t a cliffhanger or even much of a hook, I still need the next books in the series NOW so I can discover what will happen to Jessie and everyone that surrounds her.
In true Breene fashion, now that Jessie has found her mate, she unabashedly adds quite a bit more sexy-time; though it’s with a purpose. I think she would have done the series a disservice if she would have followed the footsteps of many other PWF authors to fade to black instead of including their intimacies. By now, Jessie’s almost fully accepted herself with all her strengths and flaws which is what makes her so enjoyable to read. She has the passion, love, and strength of a mother which I like so many connect with. She becomes even tougher than before, which makes this one of my favorite books so far in the series.
My only criticism is it centers around a situation similar to the end of her Demigods series in that Jessie and her team must travel to Grave’s mountain and compete against other teams in both formal battles, and skirmishes that can happen when moving around the public areas. Thankfully the final battle sets this series apart from the other, but it’s enough of a similarity that it did grate my nerves. It does make sense, and much is revealed, but I wish she didn’t use the same themes in successful series.
In all, I devoured this book in an inhuman amount of time, and though there isn’t a cliffhanger or even much of a hook, I still need the next books in the series NOW so I can discover what will happen to Jessie and everyone that surrounds her.
December 7, 2025
Let it never end
If I can only have one wish, it would be for Leveling Up never to end.
This latest book answered many questions left pending with the previous books, set the stage for even more magical action, shed light on some important characters and some less important ones (like finding out what Ivy House really thinks of Edgar), and if there wasn't as much laughter as in the previous books, it was only because the stage was different. Although laughter there was! Those blasted dolls!!!!
And there was love, of course, and hot and steamy moments.
Another Breene homerun!
If I can only have one wish, it would be for Leveling Up never to end.
This latest book answered many questions left pending with the previous books, set the stage for even more magical action, shed light on some important characters and some less important ones (like finding out what Ivy House really thinks of Edgar), and if there wasn't as much laughter as in the previous books, it was only because the stage was different. Although laughter there was! Those blasted dolls!!!!
And there was love, of course, and hot and steamy moments.
Another Breene homerun!
April 10, 2025
4.5 so-much-tension stars
And spice too!!! What we had been missing from books 1-3 was made up in this one 👏.
This continues from book 4, after Jess and Austin’s 🔥 relationship finally shows up 😮💨. Jessie needs to continue training and getting stronger. She needs to battle Elliot Graves- her nemesis from many books, and she’s prepared to go to HIM to get it done 🤷♀️.
She also finds out more about things in her life she didn’t know 😅 including some of Ivy House’s motivations 👀.
In the meantime, Austin and Jessie are trying not to let their physical relationship go ALL the way…
But sometimes, fate doesn’t care what you want 🤷♀️.
What I liked/loved: possible spoilers
—the 🔥. Meh. So I know I shouldn’t be saying this, but I can’t help it 🤣🤣🤣 I’ve been waiting and waiting and WAITING, and now that they’ve crossed that line, they can’t stop, and I’m ALLLLL in too 😮💨. Love how intense they get 😉 even when they’re apart from each other 🔥
—the mate bond clicking 😮💨. Yup. I was looking forward to this!
—Austin cooking for her 🫶. I love me A man in the kitchen 👏
—the tension 😬. There’s a lot of buildup
— the side characters ❤️ they make this book even more special
—phoenix and Brochan
— Elliot’s motivations 👀
— Austin getting aroused when Jesse is about to kick some booty 🤣 but also 👀
— the times I laughed and giggled 🤣
What I wanted more of:
—more 🔥? 🤣
—I wish things were moving faster 😅 the good thing is that I have 5 books to go and these books read fast
Overall, it was my favorite from the series because of how close Jess and Austin are getting ❤️
And spice too!!! What we had been missing from books 1-3 was made up in this one 👏.
This continues from book 4, after Jess and Austin’s 🔥 relationship finally shows up 😮💨. Jessie needs to continue training and getting stronger. She needs to battle Elliot Graves- her nemesis from many books, and she’s prepared to go to HIM to get it done 🤷♀️.
She also finds out more about things in her life she didn’t know 😅 including some of Ivy House’s motivations 👀.
In the meantime, Austin and Jessie are trying not to let their physical relationship go ALL the way…
But sometimes, fate doesn’t care what you want 🤷♀️.
What I liked/loved: possible spoilers
—the 🔥. Meh. So I know I shouldn’t be saying this, but I can’t help it 🤣🤣🤣 I’ve been waiting and waiting and WAITING, and now that they’ve crossed that line, they can’t stop, and I’m ALLLLL in too 😮💨. Love how intense they get 😉 even when they’re apart from each other 🔥
—the mate bond clicking 😮💨. Yup. I was looking forward to this!
—Austin cooking for her 🫶. I love me A man in the kitchen 👏
—the tension 😬. There’s a lot of buildup
— the side characters ❤️ they make this book even more special
—phoenix and Brochan
— Elliot’s motivations 👀
— Austin getting aroused when Jesse is about to kick some booty 🤣 but also 👀
— the times I laughed and giggled 🤣
What I wanted more of:
—more 🔥? 🤣
—I wish things were moving faster 😅 the good thing is that I have 5 books to go and these books read fast
Overall, it was my favorite from the series because of how close Jess and Austin are getting ❤️
May 14, 2021
Jessie and her people go to a mountain to meet up wih Eliot/Sebastian and put this... whatever it is to rest. She and austin mate far far far far tooooooooo much, there are some matches and a mountain falls down, truths are out, and who knows what else.
I did not like this book. At the beginning, this was a charming series--quirky, new creature types, humor, and two characters who liked but didn't wan to admit they liked each other. But it devolved rather quickly and now... gah.
So here's what I didn't like: How much on page sex is too much on page sex in a book? I think we went past the limit in this one. I did not read one single scene after I skimmed the first. It was just gross. The whole Eliot / Sebastian situation became really convoluted. I just couldn't buy that whole scheme about his motivation and how he went about gaining her trust. The usual charm and humor that were in the first couple of books completely disappeared. Oh, and I don't like the cover.
Here's what I liked: it was edited.
Overall, a once fun series became something I hated reading and refused to tell people what I was reading. Really disappointed.
I did not like this book. At the beginning, this was a charming series--quirky, new creature types, humor, and two characters who liked but didn't wan to admit they liked each other. But it devolved rather quickly and now... gah.
So here's what I didn't like: How much on page sex is too much on page sex in a book? I think we went past the limit in this one. I did not read one single scene after I skimmed the first. It was just gross. The whole Eliot / Sebastian situation became really convoluted. I just couldn't buy that whole scheme about his motivation and how he went about gaining her trust. The usual charm and humor that were in the first couple of books completely disappeared. Oh, and I don't like the cover.
Here's what I liked: it was edited.
Overall, a once fun series became something I hated reading and refused to tell people what I was reading. Really disappointed.
May 11, 2021
I have devoured the books in this series so fast, I have read them non stop for the past several days. I enjoy the characters all of them. They each bring something to the book, I love Naimh the most. I love Austin and Jessie's chemistry.
The mystery with Elliot Graves I was able to figure out in the last book so that was really not a surprise. Can't wait to see what happens next.
The mystery with Elliot Graves I was able to figure out in the last book so that was really not a surprise. Can't wait to see what happens next.
August 6, 2021
4.25 stars
The best in the series so far!
I can’t wait to see what’s happening, next!
I don’t think we will get the answer until Regan’s trilogy published.
I can wait because Austin and Jess is solid now.
Btw, there’s still one or two more available seats for the team, right?
Who’s that might be? 😘
❤️❤️❤️
The best in the series so far!
I can’t wait to see what’s happening, next!
I don’t think we will get the answer until Regan’s trilogy published.
I can wait because Austin and Jess is solid now.
Btw, there’s still one or two more available seats for the team, right?
Who’s that might be? 😘
❤️❤️❤️
April 28, 2021
You will not be able to put the book down once you start.
Epic.. epic epic story and read...
kF breene has told a story that pulls you in with amazing and funny and vivid and magical writing that makes you laugh out loud.
This story was epic like the other books but book 5 totally did this for me. The action and sexy times and laughter with the banter not one bad thing can be said about book 5..
Epic.. epic epic story and read...
kF breene has told a story that pulls you in with amazing and funny and vivid and magical writing that makes you laugh out loud.
This story was epic like the other books but book 5 totally did this for me. The action and sexy times and laughter with the banter not one bad thing can be said about book 5..
May 24, 2021
When you read a book and you feel part of the found family😍 Everyone is uniquely weird and funny and sooo loveable! And the building connection and love between them is Perfection. I love it when the couple gets time to really get to know each other and fall in love slowly Because they're Getting to Actually know each other. There is great teamwork and i want to have these adventures with them. It's so light and pure. I already miss this "eccentric"😉 band of misfits.
May 4, 2021
Meh. Just not as good or funny as the previous books in the series. Felt rushed and not as well developed. The “mating” is feeling pretty stale at this point too.
May 17, 2021
Least favorite book of the series...
April 30, 2021
Ugh Disappointed
I love love love this series. I love the humor and the characters. I love that Jessie is middle aged and using her wisdom to get through all of these changes coming her way. I love this genre of books but not all the characters read middle age even though they are supposed to be in their 40s. Jessie reads 40s and it makes the books even better. I felt that this book was too short and too rushed. There were large amounts of time skipped the mating ritual that she is going through and we’ve been building up to seemed to be thrown in because why not. I feel like I was let down with characters. Not as much joking not as much fun. Not as much Jessie accidentally peeing herself. I think this book and the last could have been published together. I don’t know Jessie and Austin’s relationship has been this sultry building burn and I was disappointed in their consumption in the last book and now disappointed in the mating in this book. I know K.F.Breene has it in her to write amazing love and sex scenes I just felt disappointed they seemed rushed. I’ll keep reading but I want the fun and excitement of books 1-2! Also the “battles” in this book, Snooze fest!
I love love love this series. I love the humor and the characters. I love that Jessie is middle aged and using her wisdom to get through all of these changes coming her way. I love this genre of books but not all the characters read middle age even though they are supposed to be in their 40s. Jessie reads 40s and it makes the books even better. I felt that this book was too short and too rushed. There were large amounts of time skipped the mating ritual that she is going through and we’ve been building up to seemed to be thrown in because why not. I feel like I was let down with characters. Not as much joking not as much fun. Not as much Jessie accidentally peeing herself. I think this book and the last could have been published together. I don’t know Jessie and Austin’s relationship has been this sultry building burn and I was disappointed in their consumption in the last book and now disappointed in the mating in this book. I know K.F.Breene has it in her to write amazing love and sex scenes I just felt disappointed they seemed rushed. I’ll keep reading but I want the fun and excitement of books 1-2! Also the “battles” in this book, Snooze fest!
April 27, 2021
This series really has been getting better and better with every book and Magical Midlife Meeting is the culmination we've been waiting for in so many ways. Elliot Graves has been a thorn in Jessie's side from very early on and now she is finally getting the chance to face off against her nemesis. Things aren't quite what they seem though so Jessie is going to have to think fast before she does something she might later come to regret.
I really enjoyed this book, as much as it's been fun meeting various family members of both Jessie and Austin in the last couple of books this story things are pulled right back to the core members of Jessie's team and the protectors of Ivy House. It's time to meet Elliot Graves face to face and it's being done on his territory so the whole crew is on edge just waiting to see how things play out. They come face to face with multiple mages and soon find themselves in a fight for their lives.
I really don't want to say too much about this book because I don't want to accidentally spoiler anyone but there is a lot of action and some really interesting revelations for you to look forward to when you pick up this book. By the end Jessie is forced to rethink a lot of her old assumptions and question who the real enemies are and we've definitely been set up for an even more dangerous next book in the series. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next.
I really enjoyed this book, as much as it's been fun meeting various family members of both Jessie and Austin in the last couple of books this story things are pulled right back to the core members of Jessie's team and the protectors of Ivy House. It's time to meet Elliot Graves face to face and it's being done on his territory so the whole crew is on edge just waiting to see how things play out. They come face to face with multiple mages and soon find themselves in a fight for their lives.
I really don't want to say too much about this book because I don't want to accidentally spoiler anyone but there is a lot of action and some really interesting revelations for you to look forward to when you pick up this book. By the end Jessie is forced to rethink a lot of her old assumptions and question who the real enemies are and we've definitely been set up for an even more dangerous next book in the series. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next.
April 20, 2025
I have been really enjoying this series overall. But, Magical Midlife Meeting missed the mark just a little as so much of it revolved about the potential mating of Jacinta and Austin. Which you would think I would be more interested in than the overall story but alas, I was way more interested in the team being underground at the enemies lair for a competition than the love story part.
Elliot Graves, isn't who we initially thought he was. But that doesn't necessarily mean he is on team good. He is hosting a magical conclave that Jessie and her entire cohort are attending. With a few last minute additions including our favorite flower eating not a big foot. They are headed to kill Elliot Graves, but if you read the last book and I assume you have and aren't starting with #5 of a series, then you know she is in for a surprise.
I loved the competition portion of the book and seeing Jessie's team coming together and what they were truly capable of. I also really enjoyed learning a little more about our non-bigfoot (bassa-houn (sp?)), and how Jessie is now tied to them. I'm sure that will be an interesting story later in the series.
Jessie and Austin finally figure it all out and while we new it would happen, it probably didn't happen at the best time or in the best place. Still good to get it out of the way. The other interesting addition to the cast is Broken Sue. I liked the backstory and the vengeance he was able to get.
While not the best book in the series for me, I am happy with where it ended and with the possibilities for Jacinta with the new Mage teacher is identified and maybe she will learn a little magical control to go along with all that power.
Elliot Graves, isn't who we initially thought he was. But that doesn't necessarily mean he is on team good. He is hosting a magical conclave that Jessie and her entire cohort are attending. With a few last minute additions including our favorite flower eating not a big foot. They are headed to kill Elliot Graves, but if you read the last book and I assume you have and aren't starting with #5 of a series, then you know she is in for a surprise.
I loved the competition portion of the book and seeing Jessie's team coming together and what they were truly capable of. I also really enjoyed learning a little more about our non-bigfoot (bassa-houn (sp?)), and how Jessie is now tied to them. I'm sure that will be an interesting story later in the series.
Jessie and Austin finally figure it all out and while we new it would happen, it probably didn't happen at the best time or in the best place. Still good to get it out of the way. The other interesting addition to the cast is Broken Sue. I liked the backstory and the vengeance he was able to get.
While not the best book in the series for me, I am happy with where it ended and with the possibilities for Jacinta with the new Mage teacher is identified and maybe she will learn a little magical control to go along with all that power.
April 10, 2021
This series gets better with each book in it! Meeting was just so full of magic! It was entrancing, and I just couldn't have asked for a better story. This book takes everything up a notch: action, rivalry, mystery, romance, and steam. The steam on this one nearly made me pass out as I tried to fan myself! As the Elliot Graves situation finally comes to pass, what will come next is so much fun to speculate about that I can hardly contain myself. It's so very well written, and so dynamic in its scenes and story. I just feel like I can't get enough of Jessie, Austin, and their merry band of misfits. The power they hold in their differences is incredibly satisfying, especially as they're underestimated. It's a bold next step in Jessie's story and I am 100% here for it!
October 13, 2021
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Magical Midlife Meeting
Jessie has come a long way from the woman readers first met. She’s found herself a quirky and loveable family and is willing to put her life on the line to protect them. Her magical abilities have blossomed and while she isn’t a master of her powers yet, she can certainly pack a magical punch. And along her journey, the mage Elliott Graves has constantly tested her and threatened all she holds dear. It’s time to meet the mage and prove to him her true power. And after witnessing the death of one of her team at his hand, Jessie is out for blood.
She’s been beaten, battered, and kidnapped, but Jessie is ready to put her foot down and show the world the power she contains. Magical Midlife Meeting allows readers to witness the team working as a unit and putting their training to the test. Yet would it be the Ivy House team if they didn’t have mishaps and quirky humor thrown into the mix? Wait till you read about the armor they wear. You’ll be laughing and cheering them on as they stun their enemies with unconventional tactics.
I do wish there was more time spent with the team fighting other magical users. With the amount of focus spent training and building up to this moment, the actual time spent harnessing all their potential was overshadowed by the romance plot. I get it. The romantic tension surrounding Jessie has been a near constant backdrop from book one. Now that her relationship is realized, the romance is starting to take the front seat. As much as it makes sense for her character, I wish there was more writing to support the rest of the story.
Each book in the Leveling Up series has been a fun read. Jessie is a great character to follow and brings to light how life doesn’t end when you hit midlife. There is so much left to do, all it takes is the courage to reach for it.
Jessie has come a long way from the woman readers first met. She’s found herself a quirky and loveable family and is willing to put her life on the line to protect them. Her magical abilities have blossomed and while she isn’t a master of her powers yet, she can certainly pack a magical punch. And along her journey, the mage Elliott Graves has constantly tested her and threatened all she holds dear. It’s time to meet the mage and prove to him her true power. And after witnessing the death of one of her team at his hand, Jessie is out for blood.
She’s been beaten, battered, and kidnapped, but Jessie is ready to put her foot down and show the world the power she contains. Magical Midlife Meeting allows readers to witness the team working as a unit and putting their training to the test. Yet would it be the Ivy House team if they didn’t have mishaps and quirky humor thrown into the mix? Wait till you read about the armor they wear. You’ll be laughing and cheering them on as they stun their enemies with unconventional tactics.
I do wish there was more time spent with the team fighting other magical users. With the amount of focus spent training and building up to this moment, the actual time spent harnessing all their potential was overshadowed by the romance plot. I get it. The romantic tension surrounding Jessie has been a near constant backdrop from book one. Now that her relationship is realized, the romance is starting to take the front seat. As much as it makes sense for her character, I wish there was more writing to support the rest of the story.
Each book in the Leveling Up series has been a fun read. Jessie is a great character to follow and brings to light how life doesn’t end when you hit midlife. There is so much left to do, all it takes is the courage to reach for it.
July 23, 2021
Leveling Up is a series that levels up with every sequel. The quirky crew gets bigger and bigger.
And hence it gets more and more fun. ;)
I am so glad I grabbed the first book while it was free for Kindle and hence discovered this great new author.
Looking forward to the sequel! Until then, I am going to go and explore the rest of her series. :)
And hence it gets more and more fun. ;)
I am so glad I grabbed the first book while it was free for Kindle and hence discovered this great new author.
Looking forward to the sequel! Until then, I am going to go and explore the rest of her series. :)
May 6, 2021
I really enjoy this series. I always spend a lot of time laughing when I listen to it, and it always surprises me how much I laugh.
I may have to just relisten to the entire series from the start, just because I can. :)
I may have to just relisten to the entire series from the start, just because I can. :)
July 20, 2021
This series is officially over for me. Books 1-3 were cozyish reads, book 4 turned explicit and book five was just so over the top I am done. I wish books had content ratings like television and movies do. I need an IMDB for books.
February 9, 2025
Reread 1-5 Graphic Audio version. Feb 2025
Added a lot to the enjoyment. This sort of ensemble caper style story lends to the casting of multiples. Definitely a better experience than the previous Audio.
Added a lot to the enjoyment. This sort of ensemble caper style story lends to the casting of multiples. Definitely a better experience than the previous Audio.
December 8, 2021
Jessie, Austin and her Ivy House Crew finally gets to visit Elliott's house. Too bad they couldn't bring the creepy dolls. 😊 So when is the next book coming out?
September 26, 2025
4.5 stars
** This 100% includes explicit spoilers for previous books in the series**
So yeah. Jessie and her crew finally meet her big bad nemesis Elliot face to face. They travel to his home and it is a coming out ball... of sorts... for Jessie to be introduced to some other mages. But it isn't friendly because they are all a dysfunctional bunch.
Unlike the other supernaturals who seem to band together in family packs or groups, the mages seem to all have a rival -frenemies relationship. They have a hierarchy but it isn't rooted in trust, but in power. And it seems like they'll stab each other in the back given the slightest provocation.
So into this mess comes Jessie and her crew to participate in a a series of battles to show strength because Elliot is looking for strong allies to go into a final boss battle to topple a more powerful and even more evil mage named Momar. Jessie's motivation isn't about that at all, she doesn't know anything about Momar, she just wants to kill Elliot for what he did to Sebastian.
Despite my misgivings about Elliot in the very first book -- because I HATE, HATE, BURN IT WITH FIRE the trope of the omnipotent evil big bad who is always two steps ahead of our heroes and manipulates them and toys with them until we get the final battle (been there, done that, got bored before the end too many times) -- I actually came out of this appreciating what she did with Elliot.
She gave him a good motivation. He is an effective villain because he is the hero in his own story and even though his methods are terrible his end goal isn't. And this isn't and end of the road, it is a bend in the road. Our heroes have to re-calibrate .. a lot.
This brings me to Sebastian. I also liked how that played out. I mentioned in my review of the previous book that listening on audio gave me a few clues about what was going on with Sebastian. That is executed here as well. I like how the voice actor (or actors?) are doing with Sebastian and Elliot. They both have very distinct verbal cadences. Sebastian is a little stuttery, a little comical, sounds like he could be in a sitcom. Elliot is smooth and oily. Sounds like a Bond villain. I really enjoyed the ending and the backstory and Elliot's explanation of him and Sebastian.
On the romance front, Austin is still boyfriend goals. He and Jamie are fully committed and bonded and it is nice. The reaction of everyone around them is fun.
I knock down 1/2 a star because I thought the beginning was a bit slow, and I wish we had gotten to see more of the other mages. The battle-contest part was a lot more tell than show.
Also the while the humor is still there it is a little more toned down. I did like Elliot's second in command. And I liked how 'Broken Sue' got his name and how every just went with it.
Very interested to see where this goes next with all the new revelations.
** This 100% includes explicit spoilers for previous books in the series**
So yeah. Jessie and her crew finally meet her big bad nemesis Elliot face to face. They travel to his home and it is a coming out ball... of sorts... for Jessie to be introduced to some other mages. But it isn't friendly because they are all a dysfunctional bunch.
Unlike the other supernaturals who seem to band together in family packs or groups, the mages seem to all have a rival -frenemies relationship. They have a hierarchy but it isn't rooted in trust, but in power. And it seems like they'll stab each other in the back given the slightest provocation.
So into this mess comes Jessie and her crew to participate in a a series of battles to show strength because Elliot is looking for strong allies to go into a final boss battle to topple a more powerful and even more evil mage named Momar. Jessie's motivation isn't about that at all, she doesn't know anything about Momar, she just wants to kill Elliot for what he did to Sebastian.
Despite my misgivings about Elliot in the very first book -- because I HATE, HATE, BURN IT WITH FIRE the trope of the omnipotent evil big bad who is always two steps ahead of our heroes and manipulates them and toys with them until we get the final battle (been there, done that, got bored before the end too many times) -- I actually came out of this appreciating what she did with Elliot.
She gave him a good motivation. He is an effective villain because he is the hero in his own story and even though his methods are terrible his end goal isn't. And this isn't and end of the road, it is a bend in the road. Our heroes have to re-calibrate .. a lot.
This brings me to Sebastian. I also liked how that played out. I mentioned in my review of the previous book that listening on audio gave me a few clues about what was going on with Sebastian. That is executed here as well. I like how the voice actor (or actors?) are doing with Sebastian and Elliot. They both have very distinct verbal cadences. Sebastian is a little stuttery, a little comical, sounds like he could be in a sitcom. Elliot is smooth and oily. Sounds like a Bond villain. I really enjoyed the ending and the backstory and Elliot's explanation of him and Sebastian.
On the romance front, Austin is still boyfriend goals. He and Jamie are fully committed and bonded and it is nice. The reaction of everyone around them is fun.
I knock down 1/2 a star because I thought the beginning was a bit slow, and I wish we had gotten to see more of the other mages. The battle-contest part was a lot more tell than show.
Also the while the humor is still there it is a little more toned down. I did like Elliot's second in command. And I liked how 'Broken Sue' got his name and how every just went with it.
Very interested to see where this goes next with all the new revelations.
June 11, 2021
Jessie's finally finding her footing as the heir to Ivy House and BOY she doesn't do things by half measures, does she? She might have been a wee bit tentative when it came to learning the magical side of things (mostly because the training portion of said learning involved her going full-out on her newfound friends and she was hesitant about hurting them), but when push came to shove she came out roaring.
Unlocking the full potential of her beast (both for leading the crew she's gathered AND for getting her mate on with Austin) makes her the type of powerhouse the other mages don't know how to handle. Which, given the clues that are dropped as to what's coming down the line, is going to be needed.
But before Jessie can tackle that issue, she has a little thing with Elliot Graves she needs to hash out. And by has out, I mean she needs to figure out if his intel is trustworthy and what she's going to do about it once she decides which way she's leaning.
Yeaaaaah. Things are a little complicated for Jessie and her crew and it doesn't look like it's going to get any less sticky in the near future. Which basically means I CAN'T WAIT to see what happens next.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Unlocking the full potential of her beast (both for leading the crew she's gathered AND for getting her mate on with Austin) makes her the type of powerhouse the other mages don't know how to handle. Which, given the clues that are dropped as to what's coming down the line, is going to be needed.
But before Jessie can tackle that issue, she has a little thing with Elliot Graves she needs to hash out. And by has out, I mean she needs to figure out if his intel is trustworthy and what she's going to do about it once she decides which way she's leaning.
Yeaaaaah. Things are a little complicated for Jessie and her crew and it doesn't look like it's going to get any less sticky in the near future. Which basically means I CAN'T WAIT to see what happens next.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 30, 2021
Oh, what a tangled web.
I love this series! Jessie was once a ‘Jane’. That is, a plain middle aged human woman with nothing magical about her. But then she acquired Ivy House and a whole lot of magic as well as being turned into a gargoyle shifter! She also got the strength and health of a woman half her age. She could have got the youthful
looks to go with it but decided that she was quite happy as she was. She had no idea that the power she had received made her the most powerful mage in the world especially since she had no idea how to use it at first. Luckily there were books that could help and there was an alpha shifter in town, Austin, who took a shine to her immediately. Jessie accumulates a devoted group of magical beings around her who strive to train her to be the best but it takes time. One mage who was drawn to her, Sebastian, had the skills to teach her and they had a great rapport but she lost him. Now she has to face the bogeyman of mages Elliot Graves, and a number of other mages, none of whom realise how strong she is. Seeing how Jessie and her ragtag of followers confront the battle keeps you on your toes.
A really great story!
I love this series! Jessie was once a ‘Jane’. That is, a plain middle aged human woman with nothing magical about her. But then she acquired Ivy House and a whole lot of magic as well as being turned into a gargoyle shifter! She also got the strength and health of a woman half her age. She could have got the youthful
looks to go with it but decided that she was quite happy as she was. She had no idea that the power she had received made her the most powerful mage in the world especially since she had no idea how to use it at first. Luckily there were books that could help and there was an alpha shifter in town, Austin, who took a shine to her immediately. Jessie accumulates a devoted group of magical beings around her who strive to train her to be the best but it takes time. One mage who was drawn to her, Sebastian, had the skills to teach her and they had a great rapport but she lost him. Now she has to face the bogeyman of mages Elliot Graves, and a number of other mages, none of whom realise how strong she is. Seeing how Jessie and her ragtag of followers confront the battle keeps you on your toes.
A really great story!
April 27, 2021
The best book in the series so far. Lots of answers to questions. Enjoyed it.
July 3, 2021
4.5/5 stars. I DEVOURED this series once discovered. Seriously. Hurry up book 5!
April 27, 2021
This is quite possibly my favorite book in the series.
Each book up until now, had its quirks and funny moments, but book #5 is what really clinched the series for me.
Jessie is still growing into her power more and more each day, but it's not just about her anymore. It's about how her entire crew is evolving. What's more, they are finally getting out and getting to team up against some of the magical elite. Oh boy, and when they do, it's absolute fireworks. Some of the timing of events was perfectly planned, so I found myself flipping page after page because I needed to know if everyone made it out unscathed.
And Edgar. My dear Edgar becomes my favorite character just a little bit more each time. Sure, Mr. Tom is there for the perfect comic relief, but Edgar is just so endearing I can't help but want to befriend him in real life. One of my favorite quotes from this book is actually about him:
"You are the only reason why I allow that sort of madness near my home, I hope you know that," Austin said... "If you eve wonder how much you mean to me, look no further than Edgar hanging out in my yard with a spray bottle."
I also found it really neat how, now that we have seen another side of Elliot Graves from book 4, I was really rotting for both sides. It didn't feel so much like good vs. evil, but rather a spark of hope that the characters I'd come to love made it out ok. One thing I've come to appreciate about KF Breene, is that even though some scenes are emotional, it's rare that she'll ever rip my heart out and stomp on it. She always has a plan, and for that reason, I know that I will continue to love her books.
Each book up until now, had its quirks and funny moments, but book #5 is what really clinched the series for me.
Jessie is still growing into her power more and more each day, but it's not just about her anymore. It's about how her entire crew is evolving. What's more, they are finally getting out and getting to team up against some of the magical elite. Oh boy, and when they do, it's absolute fireworks. Some of the timing of events was perfectly planned, so I found myself flipping page after page because I needed to know if everyone made it out unscathed.
And Edgar. My dear Edgar becomes my favorite character just a little bit more each time. Sure, Mr. Tom is there for the perfect comic relief, but Edgar is just so endearing I can't help but want to befriend him in real life. One of my favorite quotes from this book is actually about him:
"You are the only reason why I allow that sort of madness near my home, I hope you know that," Austin said... "If you eve wonder how much you mean to me, look no further than Edgar hanging out in my yard with a spray bottle."
I also found it really neat how, now that we have seen another side of Elliot Graves from book 4, I was really rotting for both sides. It didn't feel so much like good vs. evil, but rather a spark of hope that the characters I'd come to love made it out ok. One thing I've come to appreciate about KF Breene, is that even though some scenes are emotional, it's rare that she'll ever rip my heart out and stomp on it. She always has a plan, and for that reason, I know that I will continue to love her books.
May 1, 2021
I LOVE THIS SERIES!
This was another winner in a wonderful and hilarious series. Just when I thought that this was going to be the final book in the series - the climax and resolution - boy was I wrong. Yes, we finally have the "battle", but it ends up being only the beginning.
I alternated between listening and reading this book and while I usually say that I had no problems with the narration, this is one of those rare books where I would completely suggest that you listen to the audio version. Nicole Poole is a fantastic narrator and for some reason, her portrayal of this series just completely brings it to life. The voices that she uses for the various crazy characters are spot on and make a great book even better. Seriously...she is fantastic.
This is NOT a stand alone, there are 4 books prior to this one. You really need to start at the beginning and just enjoy the ride. One of the great things about this book is that we get to see what a phenomenal job that Jessie did building her team. Her team is strong and loyal and ready to head into battle for Jessie.
I especially LOVED what was happening between Jessie and Austin Stone (it's about time, even though the timing was kind of hilarious) and the dialogue between all of these crazy characters left my stomach hurting because of my laughing.
With no spoilers, let me just say that I LOVED EVERY minute of this book and am ready and waiting to see what is going to happen next.
This was another winner in a wonderful and hilarious series. Just when I thought that this was going to be the final book in the series - the climax and resolution - boy was I wrong. Yes, we finally have the "battle", but it ends up being only the beginning.
I alternated between listening and reading this book and while I usually say that I had no problems with the narration, this is one of those rare books where I would completely suggest that you listen to the audio version. Nicole Poole is a fantastic narrator and for some reason, her portrayal of this series just completely brings it to life. The voices that she uses for the various crazy characters are spot on and make a great book even better. Seriously...she is fantastic.
This is NOT a stand alone, there are 4 books prior to this one. You really need to start at the beginning and just enjoy the ride. One of the great things about this book is that we get to see what a phenomenal job that Jessie did building her team. Her team is strong and loyal and ready to head into battle for Jessie.
I especially LOVED what was happening between Jessie and Austin Stone (it's about time, even though the timing was kind of hilarious) and the dialogue between all of these crazy characters left my stomach hurting because of my laughing.
With no spoilers, let me just say that I LOVED EVERY minute of this book and am ready and waiting to see what is going to happen next.
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