Step into the enchanting chaos of the Forty Proof series, where a sassy 41-year-old divorcee named Breena O’Rylee proves that life’s wildest adventures can spark after forty! Written by Shannon Mayer, this paranormal women’s fiction blends humor, heart, and supernatural thrills in the sultry streets of Savannah, Georgia. With werewolves, witches, and a talking skeleton named Robert, Forty Proof is a rollercoaster of midlife empowerment and magical mayhem that keeps readers hooked.
Breena’s journey from a mundane Seattle life to a supernatural bounty hunter in Savannah captures the essence of starting over with grit and a touch of sass. Perfect for fans of Patricia Briggs or K.F. Breene, this series is a love letter to anyone who believes age is just a number when it comes to chasing dreams—or demons.
How Forty Proof Began
Shannon Mayer, a USA Today bestselling author known for urban fantasy, launched the Forty Proof series in 2020 with Midlife Bounty Hunter (originally titled Grave Magic Bounty). Inspired by the growing popularity of paranormal women’s fiction, Mayer crafted a story celebrating mature heroines who embrace their strength later in life. Drawing from her knack for vivid characters and witty dialogue, she set out to create a world where midlife is the start of something extraordinary, not the end.
Mayer’s own experiences as a storyteller who thrives on blending action, romance, and humor shaped Breena’s tale. The series, published by Hijinks Ink Publishing, quickly gained traction for its relatable protagonist and fresh take on the urban fantasy genre, resonating with readers craving stories about women rediscovering their power.
The Heart of Forty Proof
The series kicks off with Midlife Bounty Hunter (2020), where Breena, newly divorced, moves to Savannah and stumbles into a job hunting supernatural bounties. Guided by Robert, an animated skeleton, she faces magical threats while unraveling her past. Midlife Fairy Hunter (2020) sees her guarding a fairy ring, battling spells, and navigating romantic sparks with a hot fae named Crash. In Midlife Witch Hunter (2022), Breena travels to France to protect an ancient witch, facing vampires and heartbreak. The series wraps with Midlife Vampire Hunter (2024), a thrilling finale where Breena and Crash confront the evil vampire Evangeline.
Forty Proof shines through its themes of resilience, self-discovery, and found family. Breena’s journey reflects the struggles of reinvention—whether it’s healing from betrayal or embracing newfound magic. Mayer’s Savannah setting, dripping with Southern charm and supernatural secrets, feels like a character itself. The series’ humor, from Breena’s snarky one-liners to Robert’s quirky wisdom, balances intense action and poignant moments of growth, making it a standout in paranormal fiction.
The romantic tension, particularly between Breena and Crash, adds a slow-burn allure, while the diverse cast—witches, fae, and even a Bigfoot—brings inclusivity and depth. Fans praise Mayer’s ability to weave emotional stakes with laugh-out-loud moments, creating a world where every challenge is met with courage and a wink.
Why Forty Proof Resonates
Forty Proof has carved a niche in paranormal women’s fiction by championing older heroines who defy stereotypes. Readers, especially women over forty, connect with Breena’s unapologetic spirit and her refusal to let age define her. The series’ blend of humor, heart, and high-stakes adventure has earned it a loyal fanbase, with Goodreads reviews lauding its empowering message and addictive pacing.
Its impact lies in proving that midlife can be a launchpad for epic journeys. By centering a heroine who’s both flawed and fearless, Mayer has inspired readers to embrace their own reinventions, magical or otherwise, making Forty Proof a beacon of hope and hilarity in the genre.
- First Book Published: February 2020 (Midlife Bounty Hunter)
- Total Books: 9, including a novella, Robert (2024)
- Genre: Paranormal Women’s Fiction
- Setting: Savannah, Georgia
Grab Midlife Bounty Hunter and dive into Forty Proof’s world of magic, mischief, and midlife mojo! Whether you’re chasing ghosts or just a good laugh, Breena’s adventures will leave you ready to conquer your own supernatural saga.