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Midlife Mysteries & Magic #48

Sweaty Nights & Gator Bites

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In the heart of the Crescent City, the Six Twisted Sisters are at it again—this time, solving unexplained deaths and planning a family reunion for none other than their archenemy, Marie Laveau.

Because saving the world isn't their only business, this time the sisters are navigating the dark and mystical underbelly of New Orleans. Between dodging curses and chasing down clues, they've got their hands full trying to throw a party fit for the voodoo queen herself.

With their trademark sisterhood and supernatural prowess, these six witches are unstoppable. But can they unravel the mystery before the body count rises? Grab a beignet and hold onto your gris-gris, because this twisted reunion might just be to die for.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2024

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Jeanéva Christie.
Author 2 books111 followers
November 16, 2024
The twisted sisters are good at dividing and conquering, but sometimes, they just need the combined efforts of all of them. This time around, Marie Laveau has asked the gals to host a family reunion between the living and their ancestors. No sooner do they have to consider this request from their once greatest enemy than they are asked to investigate a murder in the bayou swamps. One murder leads to others. Evil threatens the swamps. Gator shifters may or may not be involved. New Orleans family rivalries are in motion. The sisters have their hands full between two seemingly separate events which may just be linked. Full of danger, intrigue, and adventure this is a great addition to the series.
3,004 reviews44 followers
November 14, 2024
This is book twelve of the Twisted Sisters series and the sisters have a full load now their events business is getting popular amongst the supernatural population, as well as the helpline others call to ask for help. This time round they have a call about a dead body in the bayou, that seems to have been killed by a gator, but one far too large to be anything but a gator shifter. That means it might have been a supernatural and so the sisters need to investigate. At the same time, they have been asked to hold a special family reunion for Marie Leveau, which includes the spirits of her dead ancestors. Marie has sworn she is trying to broker a peace within the Leveau family and bring all back into the fold. The bayou brings its own dangers, and the gator shifters are mainly out at night, but there are others living there who have noticed the dark evil taking over the normal ancient magic of the bayou. The sisters have found out that the first victim was fighting for the environment of the bayou, to protect the swamps from development by huge corporations. Turns out the victim was a selkie, so the case is definitely a supernatural one and it looks like the gator shifters may have been made to look like the killers. The sisters need to find out which companies might be behind the actions to buy the bayou land and whoever is desecrating the land in the meantime. The dark energy the sisters notice in the bayou soon has them coming across a shadowy figure, who is far more powerful than they expected. They come under attack, and it is only the fact the sisters are stronger together, that allows them to manage to survive and fire back. The shadowy figure is identified as Garrick, a possible pawn of three other families that used to run New Orleans, before Marie Leveau’s family took control. But Garrick has ideas of his own and he is darkening the ancient magic within the bayou, causing parts of it to die and wither away.

The sisters have to pass more of the events business work to extended family, as they work the case, but this huge celebration for the Leveau family is getting more and more complex as details get shared. Dea must summon all of the ancestors of the Leveau family and to ensure they all agree to take part in a peaceful reconciliation, she will perform a ritual of consent. She will have to practise the spell Marie gives her to summon them all, but the sisters will also have to make sure they have extra protection around the summoning circle, as well as the whole of their plantation. Visions of trouble from the three other founding families, bring the need for stronger wards and for them to be set up in an unusual manner, that only the sisters could achieve. Marie is trying to prove that she has changed, even if the sisters are still wary of her after she has tried to kill them so many times! The Leveau celebration is being targeted by these power-hungry families and plans are afoot to infiltrate the party and suck the power of the spirits, gaining all of the Leveau ancestor’s power! The Twisted Sisters will need to listen to all the advice their familiar, Adele, can give them, as they ask for help from their other allies and manage to perform magic even Kaitlyn couldn’t manage. The party planning has its issues, when people drop out of any involvement in providing any outside services because Marie Leveau is involved! A coupe of red herrings, if not discovered, could have left a weak spot within the sister’s grounds and they figure them out just in time. The first murder in the bayou, is not the last and they must work out how to stop Garrick and the three families gaining power and taking over their city. Another busy time for the sisters, as their magic increases and the magical problems they have to deal with, never seem to end! Business is booming and there will no doubt be more issues for the sisters to solve going forward and I look forward to reading them.

I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Profile Image for Rebel.
2,654 reviews
November 9, 2024
Brenda Trim’s Sweaty Nights & Gator Bites throws readers back into the hilariously chaotic world of the Twisted Sisters as they face perhaps their most twisted mission yet: planning a reunion for Marie Laveau herself. This 12th installment of the Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom series brings the high-stakes supernatural sleuthing and irresistible sisterly camaraderie to the heart of New Orleans, where curses, voodoo legends, and the darker mysteries of the Crescent City make this a must-read for fans of magical mayhem and mystical intrigue.

The sisters are a delightfully mismatched crew of powerful women with unique abilities, wit, and just the right amount of sass. Their group dynamic—equal parts loyalty, bickering, and banter—is as entertaining as ever, and their bond is what keeps you rooting for them, even as they stumble through supernatural mishaps and fiery beignet debates. The Crescent City setting feels so vivid, with its rich history of voodoo, mysterious deaths, and swamps teeming with creatures and curses that add both charm and a chilling twist to the story.

Trim balances humor and tension beautifully. As the sisters delve into the dark, curse-laden mysteries of New Orleans, they’re also planning a party for their nemesis—a hilarious plot point that somehow works perfectly within this quirky, anything-goes world. The combination of mystery-solving and party-planning proves unexpectedly compelling, with stakes that keep rising as they discover more about the deaths and curses plaguing the city.

Between moments of suspense, Trim’s humor shines through, giving us laugh-out-loud scenes alongside thrilling chases and magical battles. And as always, each sister brings her own unique skills, flaws, and hilarious quirks to the team, making every page entertaining.

Sweaty Nights & Gator Bites is a perfect blend of supernatural mystery and midlife empowerment, and it’s a brilliant addition to an already enchanting series. This book is ideal for fans who love powerful female protagonists, a dash of New Orleans mystique, and a story filled with sisterhood, sass, and just enough danger to keep you on the edge of your seat. Grab a beignet and dive in—this twisted tale is pure magical fun.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nik.
213 reviews17 followers
December 14, 2024
Phew... there was a lot to digest here, jumping in and starting this series with its twelfth installment. The author provides just enough information to give a basic understanding of what's been happening throughout the series, but it's impossible to cover absolutely everything. Although it can be read as a standalone, it’s clearly intended to be read as part of the whole series. I enjoyed this book but did feel a bit lost at times due to some missing context, so I don't recommend diving in without reading some of the earlier titles first.

This was a fantastic palate cleanser for me as a lighthearted fantasy read centered around a group of six sisters. These are strong women who have such an incredible bond with each other. The theme of sisterhood was heartwarming and portrayed well. The "Twisted Sisters" are called upon to help solve a mysterious murder in the bayou. If that wasn't already challenging enough, their former nemesis wants help planning a family reunion. As bodies and suspects keep piling up, it's up to the sisters to work together before time runs out.

There was never a dull moment! This story moves at a very fast pace. There is always something happening and there's no time for filler. The murder and the reunion were both focused on in equal parts. Each sister had their own role, even if we only see the point of view of three of them. The ending was a bit abrupt, but I'm sure this was intentional as incentive to read the next book in the series.

My biggest complaint is the overwhelming amount of characters to keep track of. I counted upwards of twenty different names being mentioned. The main characters are fairly easy to remember, but there's a lot of characters who only make a brief cameo or who are only mentioned once. It was difficult for my brain to process who I should and shouldn't remember because I was unsure if they were going to be integral to the story or not. I'm glad that the sisters have so much support but I definitely felt like it was too much at times. This is partially my fault though for dropping in randomly so late in the series. Perhaps if I had more context or been more familiar, some of these names would have stuck with me more.

If you're looking for a light mystery featuring magic with strong female characters, I’d recommend checking out this series. Going back and starting from the first book is going on my own personal TBR list! A big thank you to the author for allowing me to read this in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,584 reviews
November 14, 2024
Once again the 6 Twisted Sisters (Lia, Dre, Phi, Kota, Dani & Dea) are in the middle of a crisis in New Orleans. This time there are deaths in the swamp nearby as well as weird occurrences of dark magic. I honestly don’t know how they get everything done as some of the six still have jobs, other than the party throwing at their home, Willowberry. Marie Leveau, the ancestress of the current one that has done so much to the sisters is trying to atone and would like the Sisters to host a family reunion. However, problems abound in this book. I took my time reading it because so much stuff was going on and I didn’t want to get confused. I love how they have a paranormal council now although the Sisters still get stuck dealing with a lot of the problems. However, they no longer have to deal with as much as they have which is still impressive with how much they do have to deal with. I spent the entire time chewing on my nails in worry, as I still don’t trust Marie as far as the Sisters can toss her. lol. But, this time they actually ask for help from the Council more than they usually do. There are a bunch of reveals and revelations as well as massive amounts of mayhem. The fight scenes are awesome and epic. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,589 reviews14 followers
November 5, 2024
In the heart of the Crescent City, the Six Twisted Sisters are at it again—this time, solving unexplained deaths and planning a family reunion for none other than their archenemy, Marie Laveau.

Because saving the world isn't their only business, this time the sisters are navigating the dark and mystical underbelly of New Orleans. Between dodging curses and chasing down clues, they've got their hands full trying to throw a party fit for the voodoo queen herself.

With their trademark sisterhood and supernatural prowess, these six witches are unstoppable.

This paranormal fantasy women's fiction is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are witty, magical, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with sweaty nights and gator bites, heartfelt emotions, action, adventure, witches and warlocks, divorce fiction, drama, twisted reunion, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the twisted sisters midlife Maelstrom and a paranormal women's fiction that is sure to transport readers into a world that is magical and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Brenda Ellis.
666 reviews8 followers
November 7, 2024
Among their crime fighting duties, the sisters are busy planning a party for our favorite Voodoo queen and her extended family. There's violent crime and a dark power in the bayou that needs to be dealt with and new allies to help. They're also wondering if Marie can be trusted to come onto their beloved plantation, or if others are behind the attacks in the bayou.

This installment has progress being made with members of the paranormal community and the sisters making their mark since forming the alliance.

I was totally engrossed in the action and interactions and kept on the edge of my seat trying to find who was responsible. This was another great visit with the sisters and New Orleans.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
528 reviews4 followers
October 16, 2024
Ancestors, swamps and deadly black magic.
This was an awesome string of events! Everything rolled smoothly and tensely. The swamp is always in intimidating place for normal people but dang if the paranormal version isn't terrifying! All shadows, scary entities, the gator shifters and all those ghosts n spirits! On top of that they keep going in the middle of the night, dang scary if ya ask me! The sisters are once again put to the test and must push their magic to the limits, they keep finding new ways to mesh their different types of magic as well. Murder for power, crazy family politics, new allies and reinforcing why they are so awesome! Love this series! Looking forward to their next adventure!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sharon Smith.
189 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2024
I love this series and the relationships that these very different personalities have with each other that seem to compliment the team. Their questionable decision to host a former enemy's Family gathering along with dead Ancestors invited, was quite the feat all while battling the usual issues that seem to be drawn to them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend this series and Author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.I have read all in this series!
2,175 reviews6 followers
November 8, 2024
Sweaty Nights & Gator Bites is book 12 in the Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom series by Brenda Trim. The Twisted Sisters are at it again, the hijinks and hilarious situations they find themselves in. I love these characters and would so love to have lunch and drinks with them!! Ms. Trim has a way of making you love her characters and the descriptive world she brings to life in the pages she writes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,044 reviews46 followers
November 8, 2024
steering the murky waters surrounding their frenemy Marie Laveau and her party needs for an unusual family reunion - fairly typical for the six twisted sisters and their paranormal party services.

ongoing troubles in and from their surrounding communities - almost as tangled as the situations they're trying to unravel.

another tangled and twisted sisterhood magic and sleuthing bunch of adventures.

Profile Image for Brenda.
3,559 reviews48 followers
September 19, 2024
The twisted sisters are at it again. They are planning a family reunion for their enemy, Marie Laveau. It has to be spectacular and magical.Between dodging curses and chasing down clues, they've got their hands full trying to throw the party for the voodoo queen.
I really liked this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sunny Lovestories.
Author 21 books36 followers
October 4, 2024
This author has an ability to take dark subjects/situations/fallouts and turning them into fun shenanigans. And every character bounds through humor and of course, knowing they did a job well done all in the name of Crescent City sisterhood.
I really loved the descriptions of Spanish moss, low fog, musty odors, ect…she set every scene.
Profile Image for LaVonna.
105 reviews
October 9, 2024
I absolutely loved this latest chapter of the Twisted Sisters adventure. The mystery, maturing magic and the complexity of dealing with a former foe - swoon!

I could not stop reading! (and now I need more! LOL).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shalalah.
735 reviews3 followers
November 6, 2024
I chose this book to read while on a visit to the famous crescent city and hearing all the stories about Marie Leveau. I loved the humorous twist the author put into the book to lighten the dark tales of this city and it's twisted past. Very descriptive scenes built and indepth character development!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jeanne.
1,955 reviews9 followers
November 6, 2024
Sweaty Nights & Gator Bites is book #12 in the Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom series by Brenda Trim.

The Six Twisted Sisters are planning a family reunion for none other than their enemy, Marie Laveau. What could go wrong? I was on the edge of my seat reading this. I recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for L KQ.
5,929 reviews21 followers
November 6, 2024
Supernatural Family Reunion

The Twisted Sisters have their work cut out for them this time. Unexplained deaths, party planning, and a temporary truce with their enemy blend into a story that is intriguing yet surprising. This was entertaining and, at times, spooky.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,274 reviews28 followers
November 7, 2024
This 12th book in this series, is a fun and delightful story! A party for the Voodoo Queen, add a family reunion and you have a story that pulls you in and has you yearning for more. I Loved It!!! No Spoilers!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,184 reviews10 followers
November 13, 2024
The Twisted Sisters are dealing with an entity using dark magic, killing supernatural people, and using the swamp's magic to draw upon the power of the Laveau ancestors. This story has plenty of action, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sabrina Nelson.
353 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2024
This is book 12 of Twisted Sisters Midlife Maelstrom. At the beginning the story seems to drag on but as the story progresses the interest increases. I like that the sisters are having to do so much while crap is hitting the fan there.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Karna.
134 reviews
September 29, 2025
Great book

This was a really great book. I think it was one of my favorites out of the 11 or 12 books so they’ve read now. Had a lot of adventure in it. It had mystery. It had fun. It had great party planning. I talked a lot about really good food, which I always enjoy because I like food such a good book.
Profile Image for Tami.
494 reviews1 follower
October 8, 2024
Very intense. It is amazing how the Sister's magic gets stronger when they are together. Also how they can run A party planning company while fighting evil. Amazing book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for AMBER CLARK.
961 reviews25 followers
October 24, 2024
The sisters are once again put to the test. I love this series. Solving unexplained deaths, while planning a family reunion. The swamp is a terrifying place. Can the sisters stop a killer and keep themselves safe? These six witches are unstoppable! And I am so here for it!.

46 reviews
December 8, 2024
Missing a chapter

On page 6 the 1st victim is a male selkie. The connection between chapters 2 and 3 is missing and the victim suddenly became a named female!?
774 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2024
Fantastic story!

I loved this story! It was filled with magic and potions, witches and shifters, greed and harmony, good vs. evil.
Profile Image for Denise.
3,793 reviews
September 30, 2024
The Twisted Sisters are spending way too much time in the swamp trying to stop a killer. They also have an unusual family reunion to plan for their old arch nemesis, Marie Leveau. Marie wants the spirits of her dead ancestors to attend so amends can be made. As three powerful families threaten to disrupt the festivities, the Sisters have to make sure they can keep themselves, the spirits, and their guests safe.

The TS, with the help of their familiar, keep finding new and inventive ways to use their magic. Unfortunately, the bad guys keep finding unique ways to challenge them. I could feel the stifling humidity and smell the swap in this one.

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Profile Image for Anne-Marie .
976 reviews23 followers
November 7, 2024
Well, the Twisted Sisters are at it again trying to save the world.

Besides being paranormal fixers, they have a business to run and a party to plan for none other than Marie Leveau. Yes, the Voodoo Queen herself wants to have a family party. Which entails some of her dead relatives. The Sisters have their hands full with this party not to mention solving murders.

The Sisters have their hands full and I couldn't get enough of the book. I love reading books by Brenda Trim, she is one of my go to authors. All of her books are action packed and have amazing characters all trying to save the world. I am a northerner and I really love books from the south so having the Twisted Sisters series in New Orleans is right up my alley. I love them. Not to mention it's paranormal.

Highly recommend
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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