Laugh Lines & Lost Things

Mystical Midlife in Maine #2

by Brenda Trim

I’m ditching my Spanx, owning my laugh lines and ready for anything.

I’ve been asked to find a missing ghost and her enchanted sewing machine. Myrna is still out there causing problems and killing witches. And a member of my new coven is missing. Of course, I’m expected to fix it all.

I’m a middle-aged mom and multitasker extraordinaire, so this should be easy. I want to throat punch whoever made that saying up. There is nothing simple about tackling ten problems at once, even if they’re mundane ones.

Before I can get to my growing to-do list, I'm smack dab in the middle of a demon invasion. And, just my luck, the sexy son of Hades is back in the Underworld and not there with his mystical mojo.

To stop to the Tainted from destroying my town, I’ve got to face my fears and leap without a safety net. But, don’t worry. I’ve got this. After all, I’m raising a teenaged daughter on my own.

There is no sign that things will settle anytime soon. Apparently, the new status quo is being in the thick of it again and again with turmoil at every turn. I’m going to need another glass of wine.

Genres: Paranormal, Witches, Fantasy, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Magic, Urban Fantasy

220 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 26, 2021

About the author

Brenda's Paranormal Women's Fiction

Mystical Midlife in Maine Series
1. Magical Makeover
2. Laugh Lines & Lost Things
3. Hellmouth & Hot Flashes
4. Holidays With Hades
5. Saggy But Witty in Crescent City
6. Nasty Curses & Big Purses
7. Fae Forged Axes & Chin Waxes
8. Demonic Stones & Creaky Bones
9. Underworld Frights & Sleepless Nights
10. Pixie Dust & Brain Rust
11. Magical Hands & Silver Strands
12. Deadly Quips & Furry Lips
13. Enchanted Tattoos & Lost Fools
14. Shady Secrets & Sun Spots

Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom Series
1. Packing Serious Magical Mojo
2. Cadaver On Canal Street
3. Seances & Second Line Parades
4. French Quarter Fae
5. King's Day Magical Mischief
6. Etou-Fae The Hard Way
7. Hurricanes, Heros & Hail Marys
8. Royal Street Romp
9. Levees, Lost Crowns & Loa
10. Mud Bugs & Cherished Hugs
11. Creole Dishes & Deadly Wishes

Brenda's Paranormal Romance Books
DARK WARRIOR ALLIANCE SERIES
1. Dream Warrior
2. Mystik Warrior
3. Pemas Storm
4. Isis Betrayal
5. Deviant Warrior
6. Suvi's Revenge
7. Scarred Warrior
8. Hellbound Warrior
9. Isobel
10. Rogue Warrior
11. Shattered Warrior

Reviews

[Tracy Cameron · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit disappointing.

The book wasn’t terrible. But I wouldn’t read it again. Something is missing. It didn’t hold my interest. You can’t put a good book down. I usually read a book a day but this me took me 4 days because I just couldn’t get into it. Some humor would help. And more likeable characters.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the midlife stories and this series is one of the great ones! It’s a fun, fast paced and action packed adventure as we continue with Phoebe‘s journey and what a journey it is! A missing ghost, an enchanted sewing machine, a demon invasion and on top of all that, a teenage daughter to raise, this midlife mum has a lot in her plate! A fantastic continuation and I cannot wait to read more!

[Lisa Malmquist · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe has been thrown into the deep end of the magical pool. She is middle aged and given the job of the head witch of her area.
That means that the dark witches that are trying to take over and gather power are now her responsibility. When Hattie, the head of the coven was dying, she had to find an heir and Phoebe proved caring and trustworthy, so the power was passed on to her.
However, Phoebe never had any magical ability over her life and is now playing catch up, training and learning as fast as she can. But the stakes are high. Luckily she has a God of the underworld on her side, some great family and friends as well as a familiar to help guide her in what to do.
For something different and adventurous!

[Lbd · Rating 5 out of 5]

addicitve reading

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

This is the second book in the series, and is closely related to the author’s magical midlife series, so you need to have read the previous books in this series, and the first four of the other series first!

Phoebe has a magical sewing machine, and a missing ghost to find. And a missing witch. And some tainted. And maybe a demon or two…
There is a lot going on in Maine right now; thank goodness her best friend Stella is along for the ride!

This enjoyable series is filled with magical action, lots of adventure (and maybe a couple of misadventures), and even a smattering of romance.
It’s an entertaining midlife series, with a mature heroine and her family and friends.
Lots of action keeps the story moving quickly, and the overarching background story keeps you interested and wanting more.

Recommended for fans of Paranormal Women’s fiction and urban fantasy.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting.

I can't believe you slide in ambrogio and selene to the story. I also can't believe you actually wrote pee pour and not the correct term of pee poor. Its a phrase associated with people so poor they collected pee pots to sell to tanners a long time ago. Just a little history for you. Lol. It's an alright story. Some bits are weird and the pacing is enough to make me wince, but I like the yarn.

[Kimberly #Audiofile · Rating 3 out of 5]

Series book 2
Slight increase in relation between mfc and demon from first book. I found this one kind of average compared to book one. There is a bit of action at the end of the book but secondary characters are just meh. I’d like to know more of their background.

3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review

[Nicollette Blackeagle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe has her hands full with learning to control her new powers, raising her teenage daughter and not to mention being attacked by demons so what is a newbie witch to do but sigh. This book wasn't as good as I though it would be but it wasn't horrible either the intricate parts that weaved through with a bit of humor help. This is my honest unbiased review.

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grammar!

It's horrible to be knocked out of a good story by unnecessary poor grammar. A person is "who" not "that". It's not hard. If you are talking about a person, use who. Ex: She is the one who stole the bike. Come on indy authors. You can do better.

[Paranormaly Romantic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Paranormal-y Romantic

Laugh Lines & Lost Things continues the Mystical Midlife in Maine series with a funny, delightfully wicked story full of magical beings, good and bad, friendships, learning one’s powers, and perhaps a hint of not all things romantic in life stop at midlife.

I had a fun time with Pheobe and her crew in Laugh Lines & Lost Things. She’s taken her place as head of the Pleiades, still flying by the seat of her pants but with authority (fake it til you make it, right?). Myrna is still a threat, and to top it all off somehow her best friend, Stella, has been made a witch through a transfer of powers from one evil witch that should have gone to Phoebe. With demons on the loose, a missing magical sewing machine to find, and dealing with a teenager, well, Phoebe has her hands full this time around. Not to forget about one son of Hades who somehow slips into her thoughts far too often, or so she tells herself.

I adore Phoebe. Simple as that. She’s had a lot tossed at her recently, most would be unbelievable if she hadn’t experienced it all firsthand. And I love going along for the ride with her as she faces challenges, magical items, learning her own powers, and somehow be expected to save the day… every day!

If you love a really good story with a midlife heroine, a truly unique crew of characters, a bit of laughter, a touch of danger, and a hint of romance maybe one day… then this story and this series would be a perfect fit. I’m in this for the long haul, and I think once you tried a story in this series you will be as well.

I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe is back for the second story in the Mystical Midlife in Maine series. \(^o^)/ Ahem. Ok, anyway. Pheobe, Tarja, Layla, Tsekani, Nana, Mollie, Nina are still with us. Also with us is Aidoneus, the son of Hades. Now we still have Phoebe trying to learn magic, but she seems to have a few other issues too. On top of the missing ghost and her sewing machine, she also has a missing coven member! Oy vey. The newest addition to Phoebe’s ‘family’ is her old friend and BFF Stella. Stella’s a really great and fun friend to have watching her back.

I have to say that I really love this fantastical universe Ms. Trim has created for us. This story never really stopped long enough for me to take a breath. It’s non-stop action and sometime adventure. Yes, Phoebe is still working with a learning curve, but she’s getting better. It helps that Stella is a firm believer in using Google to answer her metaphysical questions. This is also a good story with characters I love. I can’t wait for the third book, Hellmouth & Hot Flashes that gets released in October.

I received this ARC via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. Frankly, I borrowed it via KindleUnlimited first since I prefer to read the final product.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Could have been 5 stars...

I waited to leave a review until I had finished book 2 in the series. I truly do enjoy the stories that come from this author! However, the editing in this book and the first, is horrendous! It's beyond distracting. There are periods that should be commas, entire paragraphs that make no sense. Multiple times I had to go back and re-read something trying to figure out what the intended statement was. Aside from the editing, the main character is wishy-washy. One minute she's screaming in her head that she won't let any one dictate her life anymore and the next she's wallowing in self doubt and snapping at people who are trying to help her or show concern and compassion towards her. We are reminded way more than is necessary about her ex-husband and the way he treated her. These "reflections" of her prior life happen at the most bizarre times and truly detract from the events currently happening. All of that being said, I do truly love the stories this author creates. Her world building is solid. Her characters are likeable, relatable and believable. Not sure where it went off the rails with editing.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe has her hands full. She is trying to learn her witchcraft while juggling her Pleiades duties. On top of that, she has accidentally made her best friend a witch. It's a good thing Stella doesn't mind her new powers. In fact, she will find a whole new real estate market for herself when she joins Phoebe in the field on a search for a ghost, a magical sewing machine, a missing witch, and various other magical objects that have mysteriously disappeared. Fortunately, they have a dragon and a wolf shifter to help them out. Along with Phoebe's family and the smoking hot son of Hades, Phoebe also has her familiar, and a pixie house manager to give her advice and steer her out of trouble. She is going to need all the help she can get as she fights off demons, hellhounds, and dark witches. Being a brand-new middle-aged witch ain't for the faint-hearted.

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.

[Sue-Dee Numb · Rating 4 out of 5]

As ever with a novel by Brenda Trim the action starts right at the start, having killed one of the tainted witch Lexie at the end of the last book no one was really sure what happened to her magic.. Step up Stella, Phoebe's friend from childhood. Though still new to bring a Pleiades witch Phoebe hasn't been allowed to stop for a breath. But now with a friend by her side she stars a new quest the hunt for a missing ghost and her sewing machine piece of cake right? Yeah about that! The demon hunting son of a God is a positive though. Just a shame there are demons and tainted witches after her, can she survive them before she even gets a first date?

Brenda Trim certainly brings us action packed but never forgetting the richness that a more mature heroine can bring to a storyline, Phoebe has a can do attitude, She may not see herself worthy of the magic she had been given but we the reader can.
I do love this author and this series and just keep looking for more!

[Amy Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe, who is just learning to access and control her witch powers, is still being threatened by Myrna. This is not to mention the demons that keep attacking her, and the witch and ghost she has been tasked with finding and rescuing. Tarja, her familiar is an invaluable resource, but will she get her witch fire under control? Will she be able to save her sweet town from the evil lurking about?
This story is a fantastic addition to the Mystical Midlife in Maine series. Ms. Trim has created a world where peri-menopausal women find their power and run with it, which is a welcome change from the status quo. Hot flashes and bladder leaks aside, her heroine is relatable and likeable, and gives me someone to look up to. While it can be read as a stand alone, there is an overarching storyline that will be more enjoyable if you read the books in order. Definitely a five-star read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typical Slow Day in Maine . . .

I am enjoying this series. While Phoebe is still trying to get a handle on her magic, she has plenty of tasks to take care of. She is trying to find a missing ghost and an enchanted sewing machine. She has duties as Pleiades. A member of the coven is missing and needs to be found. Witches are being killed. She needs to stop the Tainted from destroying the town. And she needs to check on Stella. When Phoebe had killed Lexie, Hekate initiated the transfer of the magic which was what is normally done when a witch died. But instead of it going to Phoebe, the nearest Pleiades, she accidentally directed it to Stella who probably now has witch powers… oops.

But before she gets a chance to take care of all those things, she is caught up in a demon invasion. And it doesn’t look like things are going to get better soon. So grab your copy and catch up on the goings on. Phoebe’s impressive stamina can’t keep up much longer, right?

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series... am really loving the older witch being the heroine! Phoebe and Stella are hell on wheels! On the hunt for the bad witches while looking for lost ghosts and enchanted items... through in a demon or two for action and of course the hot demi-god comes to the rescue. The girls are plowing through the bad witches and learning on the run... they've got stamina galore for mid-life gals! This slow burn is starting to heat up but looks like we may have a problem closer to home with those dragons??? Would love to see Fiona and Phoebe make a reunion... although if I understand correctly Phoebe can't leave her area of charge for very long. Now we got ghouls coming up.... looking forward to the next installment of Phoebe and gang!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rainy Broms · Rating 4 out of 5]

great story editing is messy

I really enjoyed the storyline. The characters are a lot of fun. Being in my 50s, it’s nice to believe that I still have time to turn into a powerful witch. Connecting with the characters allows me to do so.

Issues:There are a lot of repeating sentences and paragraphs explaining previous books, etc. not just once, but continually. There is one part when everyone walks out of the room, leaving her alone with the son of Hades. The next scene she’s with everyone but him. There was no transition , from him chuckling against her back and a pixie flying in at top speed into her mother. I had to reread that several times to realize it was at the next day.

Despite these editing issues, I really enjoy the premise and will dive into the next book immediately.

Michael,s Mom.

[Laure · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phoebe was hoping things would get easier, but the troubles have just begun. The Tainted are still out there, and the resident ghosts are disappearing. One of the ghosts had an enchanted sewing machine, and she has been asked by a family member to find the ghost and the machine which have both disappeared. To top it all off there are demons appearing, and the son of Hades is out of town, so she has to control that situation as well.
I think all of these characters are absolutely wonderful. They are well written, funny, and considering the subject matter and some of their origins their interactions seem realistic. Exciting action, lots of magic, and plenty of twists in the plot that kept me guessing. Fantastic book, I can't wait for the next one.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe faces a number of unexpected challenges in accepting her powers and responsibilities as a Pleiades witch

despite their initial resistance and her own reluctance, some involvement with the local coven is necessary to help keep the balance

A number of Tainted, missing ghosts and relics, new alliances and betrayals, and intriguing connections make things further challenging. making alliances means being vulnerable in some ways to gain strength, and as with all things, there are costs and risks.

Intriguing battles for power, greed, safety and the ever shifting balance

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

She is not old at 42

The storyline is interesting the characters are slowly building but the Scooby gang is great.the slow burn romance is good I like that she is not in a rush to jump in.(But he is a demon so not sure how that works)

But the bad she is 42 not 65 ok she has two kids but had them early in life so the youngest is 16 (I think) and her son 21 (not that he is in it) but she is constantly putting herself down saying she is old and all her parts hurt it's getting old (I'm 48 and only just starting to get body aches not at 42)

Is broody bad? Are we going to meet her son?

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stella thinks she is losing her mind. She comes knocking on the door of Nimaha. Phoebe tells Stella that she is not going crazy but is now a witch. Instead of absorbing the magic of Lexie, Stella accidentally transferred it to Stella. When they practice their magic with Tarja, Mythia, Layla, and Tsekani, Stella proves to be a natural and gives Phoebe tips on how she actually did it. This story is fun, it has action, a budding romance, but ends in a cliffhanger. Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tara Heilman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second in the series is just as exciting as the first. Phoebe is working hard to get a handle on her magic. With the help of her friends and family, things are looking up. Finding a missing ghost and her sewing machine shouldn't be too dangerous. Wrong. This case will lead to a lot more. Magic, mystery and danger are just a few of the things this group will encounter. The story crosses over with the Magical Midlife series. While it isn't necessary to read them, it will definitely help with understanding some things. Great read!

[Books+Coffee=Happiness Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I’d have enjoyed this one more if I’d read the first book. The beginning left me confused as I tried to connect with the characters, but once I settled in, it was an enjoyable read. If you’re looking for a magical mystery with witches and talking cats, Laugh Lines and Lost Things is full of ghosts, action, and even a bit of romance… what’s not to like? The characters are entertaining, but one bit of warning… the book ends with a cliffhanger.

*I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The witches in Maine what a bunch.

Phoebe and her bunch are making life safe for everyone. Phoebe still has feeling for Aidoneus but hasn't done anything about it. Layla and Tsekani are at her side in every fight. Phoebe is getting her powers Simi under control. Becoming a Pleiades leader hasn't been easy but she finally took her place at the head of the table. Now, respect is given even if the other witches like it or not. Phoebe solves her first case and removed another tainted. Can't wait to read Brenda Trim's next book.

[Mel T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Laugh Lines is the first I've read from this series, the second book I've read by Brenda Trim. I enjoyed the storyline - the characters are unique and interesting - I particularly liked Aidoneus. The other book I read by this author was Omega from the Dark Warrior Alliance series, which was much more steamy and action-packed. I would definitely recommend this book for readers who enjoy paranormal, women's fiction, humor and interesting characters - I will likely stick to her other series' in the future.

[Janet Smith McHardy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read the characters hold your attention from the first page. Phoebe has a lot to contend with, she is learning magic. looking for a ghost, a sewing machine and her duties as Pleiades. It's all going a Phoebe and the gang are right in the middle of it all. I can't wait to read more by this author

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laugh Lines & Lost Things is the second book in the Mystical Midlife in Maine series and is a fun paranormal read. This is the first book I have read in this series and I loved it. The characters are interesting and I love the midlife theme. This story has humour, mystery, demons, ghosts, and intrigue. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.

[Kathy Mayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally got some Taintec.

Phoebe gets a few Tainted off the streets. She also finds a missing item, a witch & ghost. I think she's finally coming into her own. Plus Aidoneus kisses her several times. She is going to have to admit she likes him. The pixies renegotiate their deal with Phoebe and pay tribute. Lots of demons attack. However, Phoebe & her loyal friends are there to stop evil. Bring on the next book!

[Brandy Rice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe has quite the adventure in this action packed paranormal read. I found this story to be entertaining with humor, a lit bit of romance and a cast of interesting characters. I didn't read the first book so I was a little bit confused in some parts but overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.