Review of Magical Midlife Dating (Leveling Up, #2) by K.F. Breene
When I stumbled upon Magical Midlife Dating, I felt an instant connection to Jessie—a character who, like so many of us, is trying to navigate love and self-discovery in her forties. After the cliffhanger of the first book, I couldn’t wait to dive back into her world. K.F. Breene has a knack for blending humor, fantasy, and emotional depth, and this second installment definitely delivers again—though I can’t help but wish for a bit more sizzle along the way!
Jessie’s journey picks up right after a significant battle where we finally see her embracing some newfound powers. Yet, while she’s wrestling with creepy animated dolls that genuinely freak me out (seriously, who thought of that?), there’s a brighter, comedic undertone as she attempts online dating—something she’s not exactly mastered after being with her ex for decades. I love how relatable this aspect is; it’s both hilarious and painfully awkward, and Breene captures that beautifully.
As Jessie trains to harness her powers—particularly the coveted wing-sprouting skills—she’s also juggling the prospect of dating again. Enter Damarion, a gargoyle shifter who’s got the “sexy AF” title on lock! Their chemistry is electric, and I found myself grinning more than once at their interactions. But wait—not everyone is thrilled about Jessie moving on, notably Austin, who showcases a protective side that leaves readers (myself included) curious about his true feelings. The tension between these two guys is both amusing and delectable, particularly as we witness them jockeying for Jessie’s affections.
Breene shines in her ability to create a vibrant cast of characters that pop off the page. The side characters—like Earl and Mr. Tom—bring exuberance and charm, and I found myself genuinely invested in their well-being. On the flip side, I yearn for more exploration of Jessie’s past and her ties to her family, as those threads feel slightly overlooked in the rush of romance and supernatural shenanigans.
Despite a few lackluster moments and the absence of the steam I was hoping for, the narrative flows smoothly, with writing that’s both accessible and witty. Breene expertly imbues everyday moments with a sense of magic, making even the most mundane tasks vibrant. The pacing is solid, keeping readers engaged even as I wished for more depth in Jessie’s powers and relationships.
In terms of themes, Magical Midlife Dating explores the beauty of second chances and the idea that age truly is just a number. Jessie’s unapologetic embrace of her new life resonated with me, reminding us all that it’s never too late to chase adventure—or romance.
Ultimately, this book is for anyone craving a funny yet heartfelt escape into a magical world filled with quirky characters, eccentric powers, and snappy dialogue. I highly recommend it to those who enjoyed the first book and anyone looking for a lighter fantasy read that celebrates women over forty. While my heart yearns for a bit more passion, I’m excited to see where Jessie’s journey leads in the next book. Will she finally get the sexy scenes we’re all eagerly waiting for? I can’t wait to find out!
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