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Midlife Recorder #3
Ties that Bond in Gretna Green
It’s Valentine’s week in the Gateway, and Niki McKnight is preparing to conduct her first bondings for the fated, soul-bonded mates of the Kingdoms.
She was a registrar who married thousands of people in her former job—this will be a breeze ... Right?
Wrong!
The bondings don’t quite go to plan. Cue hilarity, heartbreak and mysterious magical prophecies for some of our favourite characters.
Niki's goddaughter Autumn is visiting, and her heart's desires are to ride a unicorn and be a bridesmaid for the first time. So no pressure then!
And there are mysteries to solve:
Why is the Recorder forbidden from bonding the members of an entire race?
Why is Prince Charming Dai, her childhood crush, suddenly avoiding her?
Why were so many bondmates trying to deceive her gran?
Why is Dola sending everyone gifts?
Why are there no doughnuts, brownies or other sugary goodness?
But in what's supposed to be the busiest week of the Gateway's year, Niki finally has some time on her hands to sort her own life out. Even if she still can't manage to get her hair cut.
In this full-length, light-hearted addition to the Midlife Recorder series, you'll find humour, tension and magical food as the Recorder confirms the soul bonds for Celts, Galicians, Vikings, Hobs, Picts and Fae.
She was a registrar who married thousands of people in her former job—this will be a breeze ... Right?
Wrong!
The bondings don’t quite go to plan. Cue hilarity, heartbreak and mysterious magical prophecies for some of our favourite characters.
Niki's goddaughter Autumn is visiting, and her heart's desires are to ride a unicorn and be a bridesmaid for the first time. So no pressure then!
And there are mysteries to solve:
Why is the Recorder forbidden from bonding the members of an entire race?
Why is Prince Charming Dai, her childhood crush, suddenly avoiding her?
Why were so many bondmates trying to deceive her gran?
Why is Dola sending everyone gifts?
Why are there no doughnuts, brownies or other sugary goodness?
But in what's supposed to be the busiest week of the Gateway's year, Niki finally has some time on her hands to sort her own life out. Even if she still can't manage to get her hair cut.
In this full-length, light-hearted addition to the Midlife Recorder series, you'll find humour, tension and magical food as the Recorder confirms the soul bonds for Celts, Galicians, Vikings, Hobs, Picts and Fae.
622 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 9, 2023
1385 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 404 reviews
August 22, 2024
4.5/5.0
Absolutely adoring every single minute I spend with these lovely characters and their lives. Wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone who loves a great cozy read that doesn’t stress, but wraps one up in all the feels that create happiness!
Absolutely adoring every single minute I spend with these lovely characters and their lives. Wholeheartedly recommend this series to anyone who loves a great cozy read that doesn’t stress, but wraps one up in all the feels that create happiness!
August 4, 2024
This series just utterly hits the spot for me. Like, to the point where my lunch plans canceled today, and I was HAPPY because I'd rather keep reading, haha.
The relationships between the cast, and how they are growing and evolving and trying to shake off ancient misunderstandings, is truly lovely. I get teary a few times in each book because it's just so moving.
I know I'm going to be useless to the real world until I run out of books in this series, so onward I go!
The relationships between the cast, and how they are growing and evolving and trying to shake off ancient misunderstandings, is truly lovely. I get teary a few times in each book because it's just so moving.
I know I'm going to be useless to the real world until I run out of books in this series, so onward I go!
February 11, 2023
Fun fun fun
Book 3 is as much fun as the two previous books. They do need read in order otherwise the storylines will not make sense.
Niki continues to explore and expand her role in this novel.
I found it a joyous book, and smiled as I read, which frankly looks weird to anyone watching.
The magic is magical and despite the level of bonkers, makes sense and seems real.
I loved the mention of listening on audible to a book with Eve and Roarke - perfect, and had me grinning again.
A real, feel good series
Book 3 is as much fun as the two previous books. They do need read in order otherwise the storylines will not make sense.
Niki continues to explore and expand her role in this novel.
I found it a joyous book, and smiled as I read, which frankly looks weird to anyone watching.
The magic is magical and despite the level of bonkers, makes sense and seems real.
I loved the mention of listening on audible to a book with Eve and Roarke - perfect, and had me grinning again.
A real, feel good series
April 26, 2024
Loved it Absolutely loved it!
It's one of those increasingly rare finds that pulls you in and lets you forget about the world, forget about your own troubles for a bit. I had pre-ordered the book, but hadn't found a suitable time yet to gobble it up... so after just losing my job this was the perfect distraction.
But back to the book itself... it was once again brilliant, the writing, the storytelling, world building absolutely beautiful and complex full of action and adventure, good fun and better friends.
Love her ever-growing gang with Finn and Fi, Caitlyn, Dola, Aysha and Autumn... plus the hobs were hilarious
I know that there are still a lot of open questions and mysteries that are part of the ongoing story, but that's ok, besides it's kinda the whole point of series of books, right? ;)
But I do appreciate that she took the time to answer some of the collected questions along the way, like Niki's little Q&A session with the Book. All too often stuff like that never gets answered and ends up bugging me to no end..
The only thing I wasn't crazy about was Dai and his never-ending secrets. That scene at the end really spoiled the afterglow of a good read for me and he is pretty much the sole reason for a 5star rating becoming a 4star rating.
I'll admit I've lost all interest in him as a potential romantic interest. Friend in need sure ok. Any more than that ugh.
At the moment I'm almost hoping he turns out to be some long lost relative of hers. Although I still can't wrap my head around how it's possible for him or at least Mabon to not know who his mother is...
Now Rollo on the other hand... :D Intriguing indeed. I mean who doesn't love a strapping viking with brains and 2? university degrees to boot... Then again given what we've seen so far and knowing my luck he's probably the one whose gonna end up with some connection or other to her, the Gateway or some such thing...
Anyways despite that little sour note it was still a most enjoyable read. Despite all the tech-forwardness it reads more like fantasy, it's got that magical, enchanted feel of fairy-tale albeit one for grownups
It's one of those increasingly rare finds that pulls you in and lets you forget about the world, forget about your own troubles for a bit. I had pre-ordered the book, but hadn't found a suitable time yet to gobble it up... so after just losing my job this was the perfect distraction.
But back to the book itself... it was once again brilliant, the writing, the storytelling, world building absolutely beautiful and complex full of action and adventure, good fun and better friends.
Love her ever-growing gang with Finn and Fi, Caitlyn, Dola, Aysha and Autumn... plus the hobs were hilarious
I know that there are still a lot of open questions and mysteries that are part of the ongoing story, but that's ok, besides it's kinda the whole point of series of books, right? ;)
But I do appreciate that she took the time to answer some of the collected questions along the way, like Niki's little Q&A session with the Book. All too often stuff like that never gets answered and ends up bugging me to no end..
The only thing I wasn't crazy about was Dai and his never-ending secrets. That scene at the end really spoiled the afterglow of a good read for me and he is pretty much the sole reason for a 5star rating becoming a 4star rating.
I'll admit I've lost all interest in him as a potential romantic interest. Friend in need sure ok. Any more than that ugh.
At the moment I'm almost hoping he turns out to be some long lost relative of hers. Although I still can't wrap my head around how it's possible for him or at least Mabon to not know who his mother is...
Now Rollo on the other hand... :D Intriguing indeed. I mean who doesn't love a strapping viking with brains and 2? university degrees to boot... Then again given what we've seen so far and knowing my luck he's probably the one whose gonna end up with some connection or other to her, the Gateway or some such thing...
Anyways despite that little sour note it was still a most enjoyable read. Despite all the tech-forwardness it reads more like fantasy, it's got that magical, enchanted feel of fairy-tale albeit one for grownups
Read
February 13, 2023Food For The Soul
🌿 🍑 There are no words to adequately describe this 3 book series. Linzi Day writes so well, I feel like I'm met at the door & made to feel at home, that I then live IN the book. In fact, I used the first book as a last minute bedtime story, & now my 8 year old granddaughter, my "Autumn" asks for stories from the 'Gateway.' We also have story sessions or verbal fanfiction, long on dialogue, short on plot but delicious fun. The sentient house {Dola} & the Gateway with its 7 doors leading to different cultures such as Fae & Viking provide a rich base upon which to untether our active imaginations. Did I mention there are unicorns & dragons as well as Dola finding her voice & independence thru the use of technology? Oh yeah, just
So dang good.
Linzi Day picks up the story right where she left it & sweeps us back into her delight filled world where every beloved magical trope is explored with fresh clever ideas, using logic, technology, empathy & magic in equal parts to create connections where there were none, better communication pathways where there was little & peace where chaotic factors struggled for supremacy.
Niki's internal battles with her real or perceived inadequacies are often my own & the lancing of old hidden pain gently cathartic. Her humor is dry & infectious. Her exploration of her inherent magic is fascinating. It & her memories were blocked for 30 years by her fear filled but beloved grandmother. The result was her choosing to submit, rather than stand up for herself either in her marriage or in her career. Learning to be strong, letting go of childhood pain, the harsh religious judgements forcibly fed... without going to the dark side is a walk I struggled with for years.
All of the characters are so interesting they positively beg for their own series. It's my only lament ~ I want more from them all.
I'm sorry this is disjointed, focusing on summarizing when I don't feel done is difficult. I am anxious to get back & read the book again while the grandchild is off on a Mom & The Little ~ Adventures In Shopping. I promised myself I'd read this book slowly in order to savor it but constant interruptions made me less than focused but as I fell more in love with Niki, Caitlin & Dola {& in turn with the author} I am less than satiated.
I have only read one other series of paranormal books that used technology as the perfect companion for the magickals & that was Deborah Geary's series. But I couldn't purchase those books then & Ms Geary disappeared from Amazon & I've not been able to find her. I ache for the world she created ~ that took me in when I was world weary & that is now lost to me. I've nearly exhausted this genre but I've never found an alternate world so perfectly incorporating tech, magic, a sense of shared reality\companionship & fun alternative reality until now.
I'll not make the same mistake this time. I'll be buying these. Even if Top Ramin is the result. LOL.
Y'all gotta read this... 🌿
🌿 🍑 There are no words to adequately describe this 3 book series. Linzi Day writes so well, I feel like I'm met at the door & made to feel at home, that I then live IN the book. In fact, I used the first book as a last minute bedtime story, & now my 8 year old granddaughter, my "Autumn" asks for stories from the 'Gateway.' We also have story sessions or verbal fanfiction, long on dialogue, short on plot but delicious fun. The sentient house {Dola} & the Gateway with its 7 doors leading to different cultures such as Fae & Viking provide a rich base upon which to untether our active imaginations. Did I mention there are unicorns & dragons as well as Dola finding her voice & independence thru the use of technology? Oh yeah, just
So dang good.
Linzi Day picks up the story right where she left it & sweeps us back into her delight filled world where every beloved magical trope is explored with fresh clever ideas, using logic, technology, empathy & magic in equal parts to create connections where there were none, better communication pathways where there was little & peace where chaotic factors struggled for supremacy.
Niki's internal battles with her real or perceived inadequacies are often my own & the lancing of old hidden pain gently cathartic. Her humor is dry & infectious. Her exploration of her inherent magic is fascinating. It & her memories were blocked for 30 years by her fear filled but beloved grandmother. The result was her choosing to submit, rather than stand up for herself either in her marriage or in her career. Learning to be strong, letting go of childhood pain, the harsh religious judgements forcibly fed... without going to the dark side is a walk I struggled with for years.
All of the characters are so interesting they positively beg for their own series. It's my only lament ~ I want more from them all.
I'm sorry this is disjointed, focusing on summarizing when I don't feel done is difficult. I am anxious to get back & read the book again while the grandchild is off on a Mom & The Little ~ Adventures In Shopping. I promised myself I'd read this book slowly in order to savor it but constant interruptions made me less than focused but as I fell more in love with Niki, Caitlin & Dola {& in turn with the author} I am less than satiated.
I have only read one other series of paranormal books that used technology as the perfect companion for the magickals & that was Deborah Geary's series. But I couldn't purchase those books then & Ms Geary disappeared from Amazon & I've not been able to find her. I ache for the world she created ~ that took me in when I was world weary & that is now lost to me. I've nearly exhausted this genre but I've never found an alternate world so perfectly incorporating tech, magic, a sense of shared reality\companionship & fun alternative reality until now.
I'll not make the same mistake this time. I'll be buying these. Even if Top Ramin is the result. LOL.
Y'all gotta read this... 🌿
October 2, 2024
So far, this one is my favorite. 4.5 stars. I liked how the story moved to actual events rather than some of the world building in the 1st 2 books. I was interested to learn about interviewing the couples for the bonding ceremony, how that whole thing would play out. It delivered :)
I like how she is building relationships with her inner circle but its only been 3 weeks! Seems a little fast but it doesn't seem to be forced either. All this busyness just seems to happen.
Interesting that my highlights are of Caitlin only:
“Don’t worry about it, Caitlin. There’s no shortage of people who can smile and be nice. A truly effective menacing glare is a rare thing of beauty and a genuine talent.”
She grinned at me. “You say the sweetest things.”
----------
She huffed, “About being a teacher. I mean, you were wrong about everything else, as Gwyneth showed you, but …”
I grinned and gave her the finger.
She ignored me. “When I was catching up with Rollo on Thursday, I had a nasty little idea. I ran it past Dola.”
Awww- shout out to the "In Death" series!
Several hours and miles later, I got to the end of my audiobook and bid a sad farewell to Eve and Roarke.
I am a little irritated since the author continues to dance around Dai and his secrets, as well as why doesn't Mabon (who can tell if someone is a good match) share his impression of them OR Autumn who can see the bonds between people? She can see Niki's right? If there is one with Dai?
Even Dai seems to be able to "smell" when its a bad match, so what gives?
Put me out of my misery! And bring in Rollo- he seems like a decent bloke ;)
Its also some shades of playing "god", being able to see someone's heart and executing them- its a power that can corrupt...
I like how she is building relationships with her inner circle but its only been 3 weeks! Seems a little fast but it doesn't seem to be forced either. All this busyness just seems to happen.
Interesting that my highlights are of Caitlin only:
“Don’t worry about it, Caitlin. There’s no shortage of people who can smile and be nice. A truly effective menacing glare is a rare thing of beauty and a genuine talent.”
She grinned at me. “You say the sweetest things.”
----------
She huffed, “About being a teacher. I mean, you were wrong about everything else, as Gwyneth showed you, but …”
I grinned and gave her the finger.
She ignored me. “When I was catching up with Rollo on Thursday, I had a nasty little idea. I ran it past Dola.”
Awww- shout out to the "In Death" series!
Several hours and miles later, I got to the end of my audiobook and bid a sad farewell to Eve and Roarke.
I am a little irritated since the author continues to dance around Dai and his secrets, as well as why doesn't Mabon (who can tell if someone is a good match) share his impression of them OR Autumn who can see the bonds between people? She can see Niki's right? If there is one with Dai?
Even Dai seems to be able to "smell" when its a bad match, so what gives?
Put me out of my misery! And bring in Rollo- he seems like a decent bloke ;)
Its also some shades of playing "god", being able to see someone's heart and executing them- its a power that can corrupt...
July 22, 2024
This charming story continues. Contrary to my expectations, this series is one long story. You have to read the books in order, starting from #1, to understand what is really going on. No stand-alone novels here. It is not my favorite type of story, but it works in this case. I'm enjoying it. The low-key adventures, the middle-aged heroine who is trying to balance her new-found magic power with her prior experience as a quiet little mouse of a woman, and the complex set of secondary characters, all with their own agendas, make this series a delightful addition to the urban fantasy genre.
March 7, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
This third book in the series is a bit different from the first two but I think that’s why I enjoyed it so much. The story arc moved well, the action was constant and we learned a lot more about the people and background but not in the dry way it happened in book one.
In this book Niki and her staff are preparing for the Valentine’s Day bondings. There’s lots of new magic, things for Niki to learn, and of course several complications. The book was a fun read and I’m looking forward to book four.
This third book in the series is a bit different from the first two but I think that’s why I enjoyed it so much. The story arc moved well, the action was constant and we learned a lot more about the people and background but not in the dry way it happened in book one.
In this book Niki and her staff are preparing for the Valentine’s Day bondings. There’s lots of new magic, things for Niki to learn, and of course several complications. The book was a fun read and I’m looking forward to book four.
December 18, 2024
Intriguing
I'm really enjoying this series! It's complex and interesting and I love the way it drops hints and then lat er confirms the information; my guesses aren't always correct, but even when I'm wrong, it's fun to speculate!
I'm really enjoying this series! It's complex and interesting and I love the way it drops hints and then lat er confirms the information; my guesses aren't always correct, but even when I'm wrong, it's fun to speculate!
September 16, 2024
Great read
Love this series so much. World building is amazing and I love all the characters. Absolutely adore the fact that the books are clean and I can share them with my mom and all her friends without feeling embarrassed or fearful I’ll offend them.
Love this series so much. World building is amazing and I love all the characters. Absolutely adore the fact that the books are clean and I can share them with my mom and all her friends without feeling embarrassed or fearful I’ll offend them.
March 14, 2025
I can’t put this series down!
I just found Linzi and an adoring her books. I am devouring them and can’t stop reading even when I know I need to go to sleep!
I just found Linzi and an adoring her books. I am devouring them and can’t stop reading even when I know I need to go to sleep!
August 18, 2025
loved this
It’s stupid late o’clock but I want to start the next one! After a day of senco legal training stuff, these are exactly what I need.
It’s stupid late o’clock but I want to start the next one! After a day of senco legal training stuff, these are exactly what I need.
April 1, 2023
Excellent series!
I loved all 3 books and can’t wait for the next 2!
Great characters and plots with lots of fun!
I loved all 3 books and can’t wait for the next 2!
Great characters and plots with lots of fun!
April 1, 2023
Love 💖 (some spoilers 😁)
This series, or rather the first 3 in this series, have been on my tbr list for a while, but I’m sooo glad I by passed a few others on my list to start this one! I’m now completely sucked in and caught up in the intricacies and machinations of Niki’s new life/world and her growing band of warriors for change 😄 She’s still learning her new role, still winging it in many cases and we’re learning along with her - though there’s much more to find out, me thinks, about the characters as well as the role. There’s a lot going on, but it never feels rushed and the author takes the time to give us the details that take it from just a story you read to a world you feel a part of 🥰
:
This series, or rather the first 3 in this series, have been on my tbr list for a while, but I’m sooo glad I by passed a few others on my list to start this one! I’m now completely sucked in and caught up in the intricacies and machinations of Niki’s new life/world and her growing band of warriors for change 😄 She’s still learning her new role, still winging it in many cases and we’re learning along with her - though there’s much more to find out, me thinks, about the characters as well as the role. There’s a lot going on, but it never feels rushed and the author takes the time to give us the details that take it from just a story you read to a world you feel a part of 🥰
:
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2024
Guys. Dola and Finn’s friendship is so precious 🥹 that’s her baby. It’s so sweet how protective she is and how she’s always looking out for him. And was especially sweet to see Finn finally feel recognized for being himself, not just the Prince.
HRH is always up to something and I know things are going to get interesting when she shows up. Her being portrayed as a cat is perfect because while she likes you, don’t tell anyone or be weird about it. I have yet to read her epilogue, I need to go back and do that. Her perch? Throne? Pillar? that the power created for her? Yeah I squealed.
Can we talk about the prophecy?! I yelled into a pillow when more and more of it was revealed. (My cat looked at me like I was insane.) I think I damn near highlighted the whole page so I could go back and reread it later. The pieces are coming together! Sometimes I can’t stand slow paced “revelations”… but this one? I like. I’m not mad about it. There’s so much else going on in the book that this just feels like a nice little teaser and I CANNOT WAIT until the full thing is revealed.
Autumn is a sweetheart and obviously there is more going on there. I can’t wait to find out. Aysha is bff goals right there. I looove that she has a little romance going with a good guy. And man, can she come through in a pinch?! She’s superwoman. Speaking of “super” people, I’m patiently (impatiently) waiting to see more of Boy Wonder and how he can eventually help the gateway/realms.
And yes, I may have cried at the Hobs bonding (binding) ceremony. Now I’m off to read the next book!
HRH is always up to something and I know things are going to get interesting when she shows up. Her being portrayed as a cat is perfect because while she likes you, don’t tell anyone or be weird about it. I have yet to read her epilogue, I need to go back and do that. Her perch? Throne? Pillar? that the power created for her? Yeah I squealed.
Can we talk about the prophecy?! I yelled into a pillow when more and more of it was revealed. (My cat looked at me like I was insane.) I think I damn near highlighted the whole page so I could go back and reread it later. The pieces are coming together! Sometimes I can’t stand slow paced “revelations”… but this one? I like. I’m not mad about it. There’s so much else going on in the book that this just feels like a nice little teaser and I CANNOT WAIT until the full thing is revealed.
Autumn is a sweetheart and obviously there is more going on there. I can’t wait to find out. Aysha is bff goals right there. I looove that she has a little romance going with a good guy. And man, can she come through in a pinch?! She’s superwoman. Speaking of “super” people, I’m patiently (impatiently) waiting to see more of Boy Wonder and how he can eventually help the gateway/realms.
And yes, I may have cried at the Hobs bonding (binding) ceremony. Now I’m off to read the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
I’m really enjoying this series! One of the Recorder’s jobs is to perform bonding ceremonies for soul bonded couples in all the realms. Niki was looking forward to that given that she was used to performing marriages as a Registrar. But there are some magical twists to bonding ceremonies and some unexpected complications.
This is another fun episode in this gentle, somewhat cozy series. The sentient house has a slightly smaller role, but there’s still lots of very interesting magic. And 7 year old Autumn participates more which is fun. There’s very little that actually happens, but I enjoy watching Niki learn her job, manage her friends and coworkers, uncover a few secrets, and just generally go about her day. There’s a visit to the Fae realm (with unicorns and Faery doors!), but most of this book takes place in the magical Gateway decorated for the Valentine Bonding ceremonies.
There are a few books I reread when I’m down or worried and this series has joined that list. It’s a very relaxing slice of highly-magical-life so still plenty interesting to keep me engaged without lots of action or drama.
January 26, 2025
Wow, wow and double wow - Niki is evolving
I can’t believe how far Niki has come in such a short time. She has a true gift and the belief she is starting to have and sow in herself and the total belief she has in her new appointments is jaw dropping. I picked up this book yesterday afternoon and have spent the last 10 hours devouring each and every page. How Niki is dealing with issues as they arise and her confidence when dealing with the Viking King was amazing, she had so much authority and total belief in what she was saying and then letting the power take over and deal the final blow was awesome.
As I’m dog sitting at the moment and I’m away from home I have plenty of time to get stuck into the next books on offer.
Linzi you are an author that not only tells a story but someone who has the ability to pull you in and visualise what you are writing as if you are right there and what is unfolding is real. Thank you so much I must say this is one series I will be suggesting to my family and friends and one that I won’t forget in a long while and one that I will definitely be revisiting again. Thank you sincerely Michele
I can’t believe how far Niki has come in such a short time. She has a true gift and the belief she is starting to have and sow in herself and the total belief she has in her new appointments is jaw dropping. I picked up this book yesterday afternoon and have spent the last 10 hours devouring each and every page. How Niki is dealing with issues as they arise and her confidence when dealing with the Viking King was amazing, she had so much authority and total belief in what she was saying and then letting the power take over and deal the final blow was awesome.
As I’m dog sitting at the moment and I’m away from home I have plenty of time to get stuck into the next books on offer.
Linzi you are an author that not only tells a story but someone who has the ability to pull you in and visualise what you are writing as if you are right there and what is unfolding is real. Thank you so much I must say this is one series I will be suggesting to my family and friends and one that I won’t forget in a long while and one that I will definitely be revisiting again. Thank you sincerely Michele
December 6, 2024
Nikki is still working through the conundrum that the Vikings have caused, with their pigheadedness and womanizing ways! But Valentine's day is coming up in weeks time, and The Lady Recorder, Nikki has'ta do the bonding for about 78 couples along with all the hoopla that goes with weddings, bride's maids and their guests to celebrate their joyous union. But this year's bonding happens to be a bit more complicated than expected...
So grab the book and celebrate with everyone.
Here's some of the quotes that amused me:
"Coffee—Because who the hell has the time for sleep?"
"The big blow-out before that religious thing of theirs where they can’t have sex for forty days or something?” Now she looked confused. “Or maybe they just can’t eat meat."
"I pretended electronics were doughnuts to see if I could create them. Just as I do with food. So I magically dismantled one to sample it so I could duplicate it. It was the new one you installed in here recently."
“Finn says he would reduce it to All your base are belong to us. It is a gamer thing. I had to Google it.”
So grab the book and celebrate with everyone.
Here's some of the quotes that amused me:
"Coffee—Because who the hell has the time for sleep?"
"The big blow-out before that religious thing of theirs where they can’t have sex for forty days or something?” Now she looked confused. “Or maybe they just can’t eat meat."
"I pretended electronics were doughnuts to see if I could create them. Just as I do with food. So I magically dismantled one to sample it so I could duplicate it. It was the new one you installed in here recently."
“Finn says he would reduce it to All your base are belong to us. It is a gamer thing. I had to Google it.”
September 7, 2023
this is the first of this series ive read. i know i know totally out of order..
but there is one of the things i LIKED about the book. I COULD read it out of order & enjoy the story regardless.
thats a win in my book.
i read the synopsis & it sounded fun, light reading, probably silly & not really expecting diddly from it. its the kind of reading one needs now & again. i USUALLY (with such books), read the first quarter to a third, skip to the last 3 chapters & if its not too silly/nonsensical i go back & actually read it eventually.
yep that was the plan... my modus operendi if you will.
well, THAT didnt happen. lol.. i was halfway thru the book before i realized it & WANTED to finish it. thats a rare thing for me.
YES its a relatively light read, yes it was fun, the characters caught my attention & kept it. a few spots of silly but in keeping with story so i enjoyed it.
a lot.
have already started another of the series. eventually, i will get to the first one lol but in the meantime, i am enjoying an author new to me.
but there is one of the things i LIKED about the book. I COULD read it out of order & enjoy the story regardless.
thats a win in my book.
i read the synopsis & it sounded fun, light reading, probably silly & not really expecting diddly from it. its the kind of reading one needs now & again. i USUALLY (with such books), read the first quarter to a third, skip to the last 3 chapters & if its not too silly/nonsensical i go back & actually read it eventually.
yep that was the plan... my modus operendi if you will.
well, THAT didnt happen. lol.. i was halfway thru the book before i realized it & WANTED to finish it. thats a rare thing for me.
YES its a relatively light read, yes it was fun, the characters caught my attention & kept it. a few spots of silly but in keeping with story so i enjoyed it.
a lot.
have already started another of the series. eventually, i will get to the first one lol but in the meantime, i am enjoying an author new to me.
March 18, 2024
Loving this series!
This series is so well written, I lose myself in it until I find, hours have passed without me realizing it.
I am especially enjoying watching the growth of Nikki. She is coming along well, but I am hoping she stops judging Dai using her ex as a yardstick! It’s annoying! Especially as I get the feeling he is a great guy.
We’ll see where the author takes us.
There are many dangling threads in the storyline, and it’s going to be interesting to see how the author weaves them all together!
The story, especially the “romance” is going so sloooowly, I’m hoping it means the author is planning on writing a long series. I am thoroughly enjoying each book, and eagerly looking forward to more!
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys excellently written fantasy.
Now I’m off to read the next book. ❤️
This series is so well written, I lose myself in it until I find, hours have passed without me realizing it.
I am especially enjoying watching the growth of Nikki. She is coming along well, but I am hoping she stops judging Dai using her ex as a yardstick! It’s annoying! Especially as I get the feeling he is a great guy.
We’ll see where the author takes us.
There are many dangling threads in the storyline, and it’s going to be interesting to see how the author weaves them all together!
The story, especially the “romance” is going so sloooowly, I’m hoping it means the author is planning on writing a long series. I am thoroughly enjoying each book, and eagerly looking forward to more!
I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys excellently written fantasy.
Now I’m off to read the next book. ❤️
April 3, 2023
Oh My Recorder - “Ties that Bond” IS a MUST READ
Linzi Day writes in a wonderfully epigrammatical fashion.
The Midlife Recorder series is chatty and compels the readers need to know more about ALL of the characters.
Book 3 “Ties that Bond” really ties the reader to the characters and them to each other. It follows Niki’s progression as Recorder, along with slowly unraveling the side stories and plots from a number of the realms.
I finished each book wanting more, and was not disappointed by the next.
I await the release of books 4 and 5 with unabated wanting and childlike glee at the inexorable possibilities that could await me in the future books.
Thanks Linzi!
Keep us posted :)
Linzi Day writes in a wonderfully epigrammatical fashion.
The Midlife Recorder series is chatty and compels the readers need to know more about ALL of the characters.
Book 3 “Ties that Bond” really ties the reader to the characters and them to each other. It follows Niki’s progression as Recorder, along with slowly unraveling the side stories and plots from a number of the realms.
I finished each book wanting more, and was not disappointed by the next.
I await the release of books 4 and 5 with unabated wanting and childlike glee at the inexorable possibilities that could await me in the future books.
Thanks Linzi!
Keep us posted :)
October 1, 2023
Good
It’s Valentine’s Day week in the Gateway, so Niki and her team are working on the bonding ceremonies for the special day.
Niki starts to learn a little more about the realms and the people there, and about her ancestors.
This is the third book in the series, and continues the story begun in those books: it’s not a standalone and yes, you need to have read them first.
It’s a fun tale, with an interesting and unique setting, and a different magical world (or worlds).
The characters are also intriguing, and the issues facing them equally so. I own myself thoroughly intrigued with some of the hints going on in the book, and can’t wait to see where they lead.
An engaging series for the paranormal women’s fiction fan, and contemporary fantasy lovers alike.
It’s Valentine’s Day week in the Gateway, so Niki and her team are working on the bonding ceremonies for the special day.
Niki starts to learn a little more about the realms and the people there, and about her ancestors.
This is the third book in the series, and continues the story begun in those books: it’s not a standalone and yes, you need to have read them first.
It’s a fun tale, with an interesting and unique setting, and a different magical world (or worlds).
The characters are also intriguing, and the issues facing them equally so. I own myself thoroughly intrigued with some of the hints going on in the book, and can’t wait to see where they lead.
An engaging series for the paranormal women’s fiction fan, and contemporary fantasy lovers alike.
October 18, 2023
These books are very creative with the varying characters and mystical additions. I do enjoy the setting outside the US being Scotland/England, etc. I also really enjoy the addition of the animals that have so much character. Perhaps the one takeaway that isn't as pleasant, Niki seems to jump immediately to a victim mentality or a negative perspective when in discussion with various characters and she doesn't know why they are "startled". Like, "what did I say wrong?" It's kind of annoying. The story though is very interesting and unique in that I've never found a mystical or magical direction quite like this. Bonus - "Dola" is absolutely awesome and makes me wish I had something like that in my house.
October 19, 2023
Thee best midlife books!
Actually great all-round well written books. I say books because so far the whole series has been consistent. I don't know if they are better, and have more depth because they are longer then a lot of books in Kindle Unlimited, or the writer just knows what she's doing. I have yet to come across one plot hole across all of the books. That is saying a lot, because as I stated the books are longer, but their are a lot of balls in the air, so much to keep track of. I don't know how effortlessly it is for her, but she does it very well. Also I love all of the pop culture references. So many of them crack me up. From Black Adder (last book) to Billy Bragg. So much fun.
Actually great all-round well written books. I say books because so far the whole series has been consistent. I don't know if they are better, and have more depth because they are longer then a lot of books in Kindle Unlimited, or the writer just knows what she's doing. I have yet to come across one plot hole across all of the books. That is saying a lot, because as I stated the books are longer, but their are a lot of balls in the air, so much to keep track of. I don't know how effortlessly it is for her, but she does it very well. Also I love all of the pop culture references. So many of them crack me up. From Black Adder (last book) to Billy Bragg. So much fun.
January 11, 2024
truly loving this series!
I am really enjoying this series. It’s got a little bit of everything I love in it: magic, romance, mystery, emotional intelligence, characters with depth who’ve actually had real life experiences etc. The only thing I’m finding frustrating is that the bonus chapters offered actually feel necessary before beginning the next book. I definitely enjoy getting a bonus story for certain! But, I don’t like having to exit kindle, go click the link in my email, read the actual next chapter or what should be a prologue, then go back to kindle so I can start the new book in the series. It’s certainly not aggravating enough to stop me from reading the series lol. It’s truly wonderful.
I am really enjoying this series. It’s got a little bit of everything I love in it: magic, romance, mystery, emotional intelligence, characters with depth who’ve actually had real life experiences etc. The only thing I’m finding frustrating is that the bonus chapters offered actually feel necessary before beginning the next book. I definitely enjoy getting a bonus story for certain! But, I don’t like having to exit kindle, go click the link in my email, read the actual next chapter or what should be a prologue, then go back to kindle so I can start the new book in the series. It’s certainly not aggravating enough to stop me from reading the series lol. It’s truly wonderful.
February 10, 2024
3.5 stars. Not my favorite of the series so far but still extremely enjoyable, and most of the .5 deduction is because of my usual uncomfortable with romancey stuff issues. 1 - Valentines Day, and 2 - all the Dai stuff gave me anxiety.
I will also note that, as some previous reviews have mentioned, Niki is a big fan of... shall we call it Millenial Text Speak? This does not actually bother me as my brain has been automatically translating OMG/Oh My God, and SMH/Shake My Head, and BRB/Be Right Back-type acronyms for years (I am what I call Gen Xennial), but I can fully understand how it might be a little off-putting for the uninitiated. Hopefully that doesn't deter anyone, though, and luckily Google can assist in any translations. :)
I will also note that, as some previous reviews have mentioned, Niki is a big fan of... shall we call it Millenial Text Speak? This does not actually bother me as my brain has been automatically translating OMG/Oh My God, and SMH/Shake My Head, and BRB/Be Right Back-type acronyms for years (I am what I call Gen Xennial), but I can fully understand how it might be a little off-putting for the uninitiated. Hopefully that doesn't deter anyone, though, and luckily Google can assist in any translations. :)
January 27, 2025
Fantastic fantasy
I am thoroughly enjoying these books I couldn’t put the second and third ones down! And I can’t wait to get started on the next one.
I have really enjoyed meeting the different characters in the books and I love how Niki has jumped into her new role as the recorder and is making changes for the better I look forward to them especially the changes involving the different realms! We could all learn something when reading these books about compassion and thinking of others! My favourite little bits are at the beginning of a new chapter there are passages from other books which are mentioned in the books which again we could learn from or sympathise with! That’s enough from me I want to start the next book!! Keep them coming please!😊
I am thoroughly enjoying these books I couldn’t put the second and third ones down! And I can’t wait to get started on the next one.
I have really enjoyed meeting the different characters in the books and I love how Niki has jumped into her new role as the recorder and is making changes for the better I look forward to them especially the changes involving the different realms! We could all learn something when reading these books about compassion and thinking of others! My favourite little bits are at the beginning of a new chapter there are passages from other books which are mentioned in the books which again we could learn from or sympathise with! That’s enough from me I want to start the next book!! Keep them coming please!😊
July 18, 2025
This book is set at Valentine's Day, and Nikki is finally getting to do her main role as recorder and binder of marriages in the realms. All should be easy peasy right? Since she's been thrown into the deep end, she's still gaining her bearings, yet by the end of the book, Nikki is more settled into her recorder power.
The descriptions of the magic and rainbow bonds are beautiful, and it's wonderful to celebrate love and bonds through time. There's just so much going on that it'll take a full reread of the series to jump into a book released months after - yay rereading!
I'd recommend this book series to someone who wants a cozy women's paranormal fiction book - it seems very niche, but it's honestly so refreshing to have a woman with some years under her belt as the main character.
The descriptions of the magic and rainbow bonds are beautiful, and it's wonderful to celebrate love and bonds through time. There's just so much going on that it'll take a full reread of the series to jump into a book released months after - yay rereading!
I'd recommend this book series to someone who wants a cozy women's paranormal fiction book - it seems very niche, but it's honestly so refreshing to have a woman with some years under her belt as the main character.
May 30, 2023
This series should not end! It is so wonderful! You
I became so enchanted by the wonderful people and the plot that the books came to seem more real than the mundane world in which I live! It was difficult to put the book down when I needed to do things.
The ethical and moral compass in this series is in line with what seems right to me.
I had no problem suspending disbelief when the magical elements were part of the plot because the book s are written in such a consistent way.
I am not happy to have to read other books when books of this series end!
I love the characters, relationships and plots!
I became so enchanted by the wonderful people and the plot that the books came to seem more real than the mundane world in which I live! It was difficult to put the book down when I needed to do things.
The ethical and moral compass in this series is in line with what seems right to me.
I had no problem suspending disbelief when the magical elements were part of the plot because the book s are written in such a consistent way.
I am not happy to have to read other books when books of this series end!
I love the characters, relationships and plots!
July 7, 2023
I’ve loved the first 3 novels in this series and I’m looking forward to reading the next 2 and hopefully more. My only complaint is that I keep losing time. I tell myself I’ll just read a chapter but before I know it several hours have past whilst I am immersed in the gateway. Life will seem very strange without Niki and co until November. If you haven’t started this series yet, and I hadn’t until last week, you are in for a real treat because you get to read 3 books one after the other as I did. Wonderful watching all the characters growing and developing. Do read these books in order though. Happy reading.
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