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Magic at Midnight #2
Midlife Magic & Medusa
Alex has barely strapped on her magical training wheels when a gorgon slithers into town! Medusa isn’t just seeking asylum, either. She expects Alex’s help in breaking her own family’s infamous curse.
Old hatred runs deep in creatures with such long memories, and keeping the entire town from going after Medusa with their own torches and pitchforks may prove impossible.
Thankfully, Alex has a couple of hotter than-sin distractions to help her. Erm, help her learn to control the wilder aspects of her magic, that is.
Unfortunately, her ex-husband’s prolonged recovery--under her roof—doesn’t exactly put Alex in the mood for romance, and she can forget fostering calm feelings of control.
Handing Mike over to Medusa may be Alex’s biggest temptation yet. And with her barely contained magic on the fritz, Alex may not be the best witch to help remove Medusa’s curse, anyway. Especially since she can’t seem to do anything about her own.
But when a high-ranking demon tries to use Alex’s family to force her own curse into action, those magical training wheels have to come off.
Time for Alex to pull up her mom-jeans and kick some demon ass.
Old hatred runs deep in creatures with such long memories, and keeping the entire town from going after Medusa with their own torches and pitchforks may prove impossible.
Thankfully, Alex has a couple of hotter than-sin distractions to help her. Erm, help her learn to control the wilder aspects of her magic, that is.
Unfortunately, her ex-husband’s prolonged recovery--under her roof—doesn’t exactly put Alex in the mood for romance, and she can forget fostering calm feelings of control.
Handing Mike over to Medusa may be Alex’s biggest temptation yet. And with her barely contained magic on the fritz, Alex may not be the best witch to help remove Medusa’s curse, anyway. Especially since she can’t seem to do anything about her own.
But when a high-ranking demon tries to use Alex’s family to force her own curse into action, those magical training wheels have to come off.
Time for Alex to pull up her mom-jeans and kick some demon ass.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2022
123 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 7, 2022
I dived into Meredith Carlisle's eagerly awaited Midlife Magic & Medusa like a starving man at an all you can eat buffet. I'd been craving another romp with Alex and her crew, and Mere delivered in spades. The stakes are higher, the tension level is ratcheted all the way up, and if Alex doesn't get her $h!t together, it's all gonna hit the fan.
Mere also does a marvelous job of introducing Medusa (and her mythology--the true story, of course...) as a believable character, and one you really do want to like--the whole snake and deadly gaze thing not withstanding.
This is a tale filled with heart, humor, grit, and a dash of demons. Oh, and with a mad scientist thrown in for good measure--although he's anything but good, and Alex and Co. have to really up their game to manage to even stay alive with what he's throwing their way. And the ending---omg, can we say cliffhanger. I know the next book is coming, but c'mon, Mere, I need it NOW.
Mere also does a marvelous job of introducing Medusa (and her mythology--the true story, of course...) as a believable character, and one you really do want to like--the whole snake and deadly gaze thing not withstanding.
This is a tale filled with heart, humor, grit, and a dash of demons. Oh, and with a mad scientist thrown in for good measure--although he's anything but good, and Alex and Co. have to really up their game to manage to even stay alive with what he's throwing their way. And the ending---omg, can we say cliffhanger. I know the next book is coming, but c'mon, Mere, I need it NOW.
February 4, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, but I was disappointed with the second. I don't think I'll be continuing, especially as the only way I can read them is by purchasing the audio version as this series is only available through Amazon Kindle (which I do not have) or the audio version through iTunes.
I found this second book not only unnecessarily convoluted and overcomplicated, but also much more dark and disturbing than the first was. I suppose that was the author's intention for where she took her story and characters, but it wasn't for me. I don't mind a bit of violence - especially in a book peopled by paranormal beings, it kind of goes with the territory - but some of what happened in this book (which I won't detail to avoid spoilers) was just too creepy and disturbing for this reader.
The story also felt like it drifted off into sub-plots to the detriment of the main plot of Alex's story and what she was trying to do. Admittedly, these other pieces did reconnect with the main story by the end, but I found them distracting and they confused me to the point that I lost the thread of the story more than once.
This was a great start to a series in which the the subsequent book just did not live up to the promise for me. I'll be moving on.
I found this second book not only unnecessarily convoluted and overcomplicated, but also much more dark and disturbing than the first was. I suppose that was the author's intention for where she took her story and characters, but it wasn't for me. I don't mind a bit of violence - especially in a book peopled by paranormal beings, it kind of goes with the territory - but some of what happened in this book (which I won't detail to avoid spoilers) was just too creepy and disturbing for this reader.
The story also felt like it drifted off into sub-plots to the detriment of the main plot of Alex's story and what she was trying to do. Admittedly, these other pieces did reconnect with the main story by the end, but I found them distracting and they confused me to the point that I lost the thread of the story more than once.
This was a great start to a series in which the the subsequent book just did not live up to the promise for me. I'll be moving on.
August 6, 2023
So much fun to read!
September 10, 2022
I totally loved this book. It was full of non-stop chaos and Alex really had to sort out her magical powers and progress in order to deal with everything being thrown at her in this one!
Medusa has come to Magnolia House for a bit of sanctuary, needing some help with her own curse. Alex's ex-husband Mike is still in the house needing recovery from the events in the previous book - can Alex get rid of him quickly enough?
To make matters worse some weird white humanoid creatures appear to be attacking Magnolia House and then all hell breaks loose when Alex tries to cast a magic circle to look at a hex box! Things just go from bad to worse and Alex has to quick learn how to do lots of advanced magic in a very short amount of time.
At the same time as all the chaos at Magnolia House, Gina (Alex's geneticist friend) and Nikki (Alex's best friend) have their own issues to deal with which ultimately bring them back to Alex and Magnolia House.
I loved all the events going on and how Alex tried to deal with them. Inevitably, she had to step up to her Scepter tole and take control, even if it meant totally wearing herself out to the point of exhaustion! Hopefully now she has better control over her magic, things will become easier in the future! Alex is a great character along with the support of Lorah, Kien and the others.
I'm still waiting for Mike to get his comeuppance though and now Hoffman needs his too!
This is a great series and definitely one to recommend!
I received a copy of this book from the author but this review is all my own, honest one!
Medusa has come to Magnolia House for a bit of sanctuary, needing some help with her own curse. Alex's ex-husband Mike is still in the house needing recovery from the events in the previous book - can Alex get rid of him quickly enough?
To make matters worse some weird white humanoid creatures appear to be attacking Magnolia House and then all hell breaks loose when Alex tries to cast a magic circle to look at a hex box! Things just go from bad to worse and Alex has to quick learn how to do lots of advanced magic in a very short amount of time.
At the same time as all the chaos at Magnolia House, Gina (Alex's geneticist friend) and Nikki (Alex's best friend) have their own issues to deal with which ultimately bring them back to Alex and Magnolia House.
I loved all the events going on and how Alex tried to deal with them. Inevitably, she had to step up to her Scepter tole and take control, even if it meant totally wearing herself out to the point of exhaustion! Hopefully now she has better control over her magic, things will become easier in the future! Alex is a great character along with the support of Lorah, Kien and the others.
I'm still waiting for Mike to get his comeuppance though and now Hoffman needs his too!
This is a great series and definitely one to recommend!
I received a copy of this book from the author but this review is all my own, honest one!
January 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Midlife Magic & Medusa by Meredith Carlisle is a fun, fast-paced paranormal read that leans hard into humor while still delivering real stakes. The idea of dealing with ancient mythological chaos—specifically Medusa—while navigating the realities of midlife is a clever hook, and the book makes the most of it.
The main character is refreshingly relatable, balancing magic, responsibility, and the kind of exhaustion that comes from having lived a full life already. The midlife angle adds depth and wit, making the story feel grounded even when things get wildly supernatural. The banter is sharp, the pacing keeps things moving, and the magical elements are entertaining without becoming overwhelming.
While some moments felt a bit predictable and a few side characters could have used more development, the overall experience was engaging and enjoyable. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy lighthearted urban fantasy with mythology, sass, and a heroine who proves that power doesn’t fade with age—it just gets more interesting.
Midlife Magic & Medusa by Meredith Carlisle is a fun, fast-paced paranormal read that leans hard into humor while still delivering real stakes. The idea of dealing with ancient mythological chaos—specifically Medusa—while navigating the realities of midlife is a clever hook, and the book makes the most of it.
The main character is refreshingly relatable, balancing magic, responsibility, and the kind of exhaustion that comes from having lived a full life already. The midlife angle adds depth and wit, making the story feel grounded even when things get wildly supernatural. The banter is sharp, the pacing keeps things moving, and the magical elements are entertaining without becoming overwhelming.
While some moments felt a bit predictable and a few side characters could have used more development, the overall experience was engaging and enjoyable. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy lighthearted urban fantasy with mythology, sass, and a heroine who proves that power doesn’t fade with age—it just gets more interesting.
September 20, 2022
What a magical Rollercoaster! Alex takes you on a wild adventure exploring the true depths of her magic all the while trying to keep the humans at peace with each other. Medusa adds a second monkey wrench after she turns a beloved friend to stone and while Alex is trying to solve the mystery behind the curse on her bloodline, another inexplicable curse is wreaking havoc on the members inside Magnolia House! The worst part, is that behind all this mayhem, a person that was supposed to be a friend is actually their enemy. I can't say enough about how exciting this book was! I had a hard time putting it down from the minute I turned the first page. I truly cannot wait for the next book to be out! Definitely 5 stars!
November 12, 2022
Alex and her crew are back in this second book. Since Alex found out about her family history, things have just been nonstop for her and this book pushes her even further. Not only is she trying to keep her own magic in check and deal with other things, including her ex husband, but now she has to deal with Medusa as well! Needless to say, Alex's plate is overflowing and she needs everything figured our now.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was face paced, plenty of twists and turns, as well as funny when needed and overall, very well written. I had a hard time putting this book down and whoa....that cliffhanger!!! I am on edge waiting for the next book to release!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was face paced, plenty of twists and turns, as well as funny when needed and overall, very well written. I had a hard time putting this book down and whoa....that cliffhanger!!! I am on edge waiting for the next book to release!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
November 12, 2022
Alex and her crew are back in this second book. Since Alex found out about her family history, things have just been nonstop for her and this book pushes her even further. Not only is she trying to keep her own magic in check and deal with other things, including her ex husband, but now she has to deal with Medusa as well! Needless to say, Alex's plate is overflowing and she needs everything figured our now.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was face paced, plenty of twists and turns, as well as funny when needed and overall, very well written. I had a hard time putting this book down and whoa....that cliffhanger!!! I am on edge waiting for the next book to release!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was face paced, plenty of twists and turns, as well as funny when needed and overall, very well written. I had a hard time putting this book down and whoa....that cliffhanger!!! I am on edge waiting for the next book to release!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
August 18, 2023
I like the premise of the storyline, but this one unlike the first one was a hot mess. I feel like the author was told to get it from start to finish including editing in a week. For the biggest part of the book you're getting Alex's POV, then all the sudden it's Nicki's, then Gina's. Then you have the CONSTANT inconsistencies to the point of it being annoying. One second someone is being moved through the house by magic after being harmed and not even a full paragraph later they are still outside, type of inconsistencies. With 2 hours left I had to talk myself out of quitting it.
Like I said the premise is great, and I hope the author will slow down, maybe reread her last couple chapters between writing sessions and have better editing done.
Like I said the premise is great, and I hope the author will slow down, maybe reread her last couple chapters between writing sessions and have better editing done.
December 25, 2022
Can I even use my magic?
Alex is in the Magnolia House! She has just discovered she's a witch when she realizes there's a gorgon in town.
Naturally she meets the gorgon, what will happen from them why is the gorgon here?
The book has a few questions and ideas about the Gordon which will be necessary to take care of, "... No one in history had ever been happy to find that their new neighbor was a gorgon.
And if anyone discovered that Medusa was now the last of her kind? She had little doubt that many would be too happy to help the gorgons into extinction…...".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alex is in the Magnolia House! She has just discovered she's a witch when she realizes there's a gorgon in town.
Naturally she meets the gorgon, what will happen from them why is the gorgon here?
The book has a few questions and ideas about the Gordon which will be necessary to take care of, "... No one in history had ever been happy to find that their new neighbor was a gorgon.
And if anyone discovered that Medusa was now the last of her kind? She had little doubt that many would be too happy to help the gorgons into extinction…...".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2023
Book 2 introduces the character of Medusa and then charges right back into where book 1 left off. You definitely need to read the first book to know what is going on. And a lot is going on. There is a crisis in every corner. This author has so many ideas crammed into one book but she handles it beautifully. She is a very descriptive writer and is able to communicate all these storylines and tie them together. The book is action packed except for a small portion where there was a lot of detail about spellcasting. This series has some really interesting characters and it isn't some light bit of fluff. This is some heavy duty urban fantasy.
August 8, 2025
The second book in the series is quite action packed with Alex trying to learn and manage her magic. The townsfolk are not convinced that she can protect them and they get riled up when Medusa asks for asylum. Alex has too much on her plate in this book and things are not great for Nikki. There was some confusion during the main action sequences, especially when Armin was brought into the apothecary by (Eloise or Lorah?). At times it felt like the author had too many things going on and lost the plot a little. Overall it was an entertaining read and the continuation promises to be the same.
August 31, 2022
Wow! What a magical ride this story is. Alex, the Sceptre of Magnolia House needs to learn how to control her magic, like yesterday. While a hex wrecks havoc in the house, the townspeople are calling for Medusa's head, literally. Does Alex figure out how to control her magic to fix everything and bring everything back under control? Do the townspeople get what they came to Magnolia House for? Read this book for the answers in this delightful tale of friendship and honor.
I offered a honest review for a free copy of this book.
I offered a honest review for a free copy of this book.
September 5, 2022
This book is a real page-turner.
The world building is perfect, the story is unique and oh boy, what a suspense. The characters are fantastic. My favourite is Rishi (the giant queen cobra who is better behaved than even the most well-trained service dog). Next to the suspense there is humour throughout the book, I laughed out loud at “Wee spells for wee witches” and the “Oopsy Daisy” spell.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
The world building is perfect, the story is unique and oh boy, what a suspense. The characters are fantastic. My favourite is Rishi (the giant queen cobra who is better behaved than even the most well-trained service dog). Next to the suspense there is humour throughout the book, I laughed out loud at “Wee spells for wee witches” and the “Oopsy Daisy” spell.
I enjoyed this book very much and highly recommend it.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 23, 2022
Mike the nasty ex manages to be at the top of the list of money grubbing, dastardly deceivers
Weakened by the assault of the demon he voluntarily let possess him in a play for power, he is healing on the estate, tended by some of her loyal household of followers
Gratitude is sadly not the most true thing he exhibits.
Deadly transformations and misdirected anger and hatred combine with gutsy instincts and clash with obvious prejudices
intense paranormal drama and action.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Weakened by the assault of the demon he voluntarily let possess him in a play for power, he is healing on the estate, tended by some of her loyal household of followers
Gratitude is sadly not the most true thing he exhibits.
Deadly transformations and misdirected anger and hatred combine with gutsy instincts and clash with obvious prejudices
intense paranormal drama and action.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2022
Alex and Crew are Back!
I loved this romp through midlife with Alex and her crew. This gripped me from the first part as an enjoyable adventure that starts with the first book, Midlife Magic and Magnolias. Mike still needs help as the ex (and is still just as nasty), Medusa needs help with breaking a curse, and oh, a demon turns up. Can it get any more convoluted? The answer is YES in this cozy witchy- suburban mystery with even more twists and turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this romp through midlife with Alex and her crew. This gripped me from the first part as an enjoyable adventure that starts with the first book, Midlife Magic and Magnolias. Mike still needs help as the ex (and is still just as nasty), Medusa needs help with breaking a curse, and oh, a demon turns up. Can it get any more convoluted? The answer is YES in this cozy witchy- suburban mystery with even more twists and turns.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2022
More Obstacles ? . . .
Alex is still trying to learn about her magic, getting it to work right, trying to deal with her ex-husband’s endless recovery underfoot, and the arrival of Medusa needing her curse broken. So the final straw is the demon who comes to town ready to cause her trouble. Will Alex step up and take care of business now? Is she finished with being so helpful to everyone else and ready to take charge?
Alex is still trying to learn about her magic, getting it to work right, trying to deal with her ex-husband’s endless recovery underfoot, and the arrival of Medusa needing her curse broken. So the final straw is the demon who comes to town ready to cause her trouble. Will Alex step up and take care of business now? Is she finished with being so helpful to everyone else and ready to take charge?
October 23, 2022
Alex and her friends are back with more adventures and mysteries in this fast-paced story that centers around Medusa as she moves to the town! There was so much going on that it kept me reading just to see what would happen next! I can’t wait for the next book! I’m loving these characters and their connection to each other!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 6, 2024
Great series- not so good book.
Love the story, the characters, humor and the magic. However, there is a definite breakdown that made this read a struggle. There is so much chaos going on with so many characters, the author forgets where she left the readers. One person is here doing something, then they're somewhere else, then it's back to the original. It happened so often it hurt the story. Better editing and better time-line mgmt to bring us through the story please.
Love the story, the characters, humor and the magic. However, there is a definite breakdown that made this read a struggle. There is so much chaos going on with so many characters, the author forgets where she left the readers. One person is here doing something, then they're somewhere else, then it's back to the original. It happened so often it hurt the story. Better editing and better time-line mgmt to bring us through the story please.
September 2, 2022
Following Alex on this journey of as she pulls up he big girl pants and kicks some Demon butt, was a true delight. For me this story with Demons, Cursed and Medusa is a Magical PWF Hit!!! I So Loved It!!! No Spoilers!
I received an ARC from the Author and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that it is a Great PWF Read!!!
I received an ARC from the Author and I am Leaving this Totally Honest Review because I Choose to and think that it is a Great PWF Read!!!
October 31, 2022
Alex may be a powerful witch but all Hell is about to descend upon her. Between hexes and ghouls that weren't really ghouls you have a remarkable read with this book. Gina's passwords and protocols were hilarious.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2022
Enjoying the ride!!
I found this book to be a very enjoyable experience!! This second book is even better than the first. If you are like me and are into women's mid-life paranormal stories, then you will love the Magic at Midnight series, too! They've got a bit of everything going on, are well written, and keep you wanting more. On to the next book!!
I found this book to be a very enjoyable experience!! This second book is even better than the first. If you are like me and are into women's mid-life paranormal stories, then you will love the Magic at Midnight series, too! They've got a bit of everything going on, are well written, and keep you wanting more. On to the next book!!
January 10, 2023
It Was Exhausting
The story filled in some blanks I had from the first book in the series, but it was exhausting. When it finally reached a conclusion, it was fast and a bit less climactic than I expected. As a storyteller, she disappoints me with under developed plots and conclusions.
The story filled in some blanks I had from the first book in the series, but it was exhausting. When it finally reached a conclusion, it was fast and a bit less climactic than I expected. As a storyteller, she disappoints me with under developed plots and conclusions.
September 2, 2023
Great series
Meredith Carlisle knows how to spin a tale. From start to finish you're enmeshed in a world filled with supernatural characters.... characters that are so vivid and full of life, you'd swear they were real. Now add a touch of drama with a dash of snark, mystery, and laugh out loud humor, you've got yourself a great book and series.
Meredith Carlisle knows how to spin a tale. From start to finish you're enmeshed in a world filled with supernatural characters.... characters that are so vivid and full of life, you'd swear they were real. Now add a touch of drama with a dash of snark, mystery, and laugh out loud humor, you've got yourself a great book and series.
May 30, 2024
a bit disappointed
The first book was quite promising, but this second book was hard to get through. The book is written well, but the story is just so frustrating. She is absolutely useless. I think I have been spoilt by KF Breenes Midlife Madness, which also has a magic house and is a far better story
The first book was quite promising, but this second book was hard to get through. The book is written well, but the story is just so frustrating. She is absolutely useless. I think I have been spoilt by KF Breenes Midlife Madness, which also has a magic house and is a far better story
September 3, 2022
I was intrigued by the vulnerability of the Gorgon and her goodness. The mysterious leprechaun has a lot of explaining to do and I want to see what it has to do with the Scepter. There is so much happening at the same time it was a challenge to keep up. I am looking forward to the in this series.
September 18, 2022
Another Magical Adventure
Medusa and all her snakes, ghosts, clones, bad guys, all are contained in an another adventure in book two "Magic at Midnight" by Meredith Carlisle. There is do much action and surprises there is no time to rest. Hope you enjoy it, I highly recommend it.
Medusa and all her snakes, ghosts, clones, bad guys, all are contained in an another adventure in book two "Magic at Midnight" by Meredith Carlisle. There is do much action and surprises there is no time to rest. Hope you enjoy it, I highly recommend it.
September 25, 2022
Great addition
For a second book in the series, this is really good. Some things, like what her magic is needs to be cleared up in future books, but I really enjoy where the story line is going and the relationship building.
For a second book in the series, this is really good. Some things, like what her magic is needs to be cleared up in future books, but I really enjoy where the story line is going and the relationship building.
September 26, 2022
This second addition to the Magic at Midnight was well written and kept me entertained with the endearing characters along with a story line that kept my attention.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2022
Fabulous read.
I could not put this book down. I was reading it until 3am. The characters are well rounded, the storyline is getting more involved. Thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next book.
I could not put this book down. I was reading it until 3am. The characters are well rounded, the storyline is getting more involved. Thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews