K.F. Breene is an American author who has gained popularity for her Magical Midlife series. The series follows the story of Ollie Rhodes, a middle-aged woman who is thrust into a world of magic and supernatural beings. Ollie discovers that she is a witch and is quickly thrown into a world of danger and adventure. In the first book of the series, "Born in Fire," Ollie's life takes a drastic turn when she accidentally sets her ex-husband on fire during an argument.
It is gratifying to find Chollet referring to Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers, the booklet that Barbara Ehrenreich and I published in 1973 (the year Chollet was born), as well as its sister booklet, Complaints and Disorders: The Sexual Politics of Sickness, which together show how modern medicine was born in the forced expulsion of women from healing professions while ushering them into psychosocially subservient roles as nurses, and “carers,” as well as casting others (especially in the white upper classes) as physically or mentally sick and in need of treatment by male doctors. Chollet reviews some of the detailed research that has validated and elaborated the account Ehrenreich and I sketched.
By failing to more thoroughly integrate witchcraft throughout the text, one is often left feeling like it s a shoe-horned reference to cash in on a trend. She means it is not enough to seek equity within a system of knowledge built to exploit slaves, women, and nature that intellectual order, at the center of Western thinking, must itself be opposed.
In the first book of the series, "Born in Fire," Ollie's life takes a drastic turn when she accidentally sets her ex-husband on fire during an argument. This event leads her to discover her magical abilities and starts her on a journey of self-discovery. Ollie is then sent to the Academy of Magic where she learns to control her powers and navigate through the complexities of the magical world.
Mona Chollet’s In Defense of Witches
Mona Chollet's In Defense of Witches was published in English in 2022 by St. Martin's.
In Defense of Witches
Women Were Never Witches
Let’s Stop Taking the Witchcraft Out of Witches
“The Only Thing a Woman Can Drive Is a Broom”
Short Takes: Provocations on Public Feminism, an open-access feature of Signs: Journal of Women in Culture and Society, offers brief comments from prominent feminists about a book that has shaped popular conversations about feminist issues. Short Takes is part of the Feminist Public Intellectuals Project.
Throughout the series, Ollie encounters various supernatural beings, such as vampires, shifters, and fae. She forms relationships and alliances with these beings, including her magical mentor Diana, the fierce warrior Knox, and the charming shifter Kinsley. Together, they face off against powerful enemies and embark on dangerous missions. The Magical Midlife series is known for its witty dialogue, engaging storyline, and strong female lead. Ollie is a relatable and funny character who embraces her magical abilities and learns to navigate the new world she finds herself in. The series combines elements of urban fantasy, romance, and adventure, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. Overall, K.F. Breene's Magical Midlife series is a captivating and entertaining read for fans of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. The books offer an exciting escape into a world filled with magic, adventure, and strong female characters..
Reviews for "The Phenomenon of K.F. Breene: How the Midlife Series Captivates Readers"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with Kf Breene's "Magical Midlife" book. The storyline seemed promising, but it quickly became predictable and cliche. The characters lacked depth and development, making it difficult for me to connect with them. The dialogue was also quite lackluster and unimaginative. Overall, the book failed to live up to my expectations and I would not recommend it to others.
2. Mark - 3 stars - I had high hopes for "Magical Midlife" by Kf Breene, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. While the concept was intriguing, the execution lacked finesse. The pacing felt off, with some parts dragging on while others were rushed. The main character was also rather annoying at times, constantly making irrational decisions that didn't make sense. While the book had its moments, overall, it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.
3. Jessica - 2 stars - I have to admit I was not a fan of Kf Breene's "Magical Midlife". The plot was confusing and disjointed, making it difficult to follow along. The world-building was also lackluster and left me wanting more. The romance aspect was forced and felt unnatural, detracting from the overall story. I found myself struggling to finish the book and was left feeling unsatisfied by the end. Unfortunately, this book was not for me.