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Magical Midlife Librarian #1
Curse of the Fae Library
A magical tree library. An angry dragon. A family secret. Rosalind’s ordinary life is about to get turned upside down!
After a bitter divorce and no job prospects, forty-year-old Rosalind Baldwin yearns for a fresh start. She gets her chance when her estranged grandmother Clio urges her to come for a visit. But Clio is no ordinary grandma. She’s the legendary Librarian of Atlantis, a powerful fae who guards the sentient ash tree that houses a magical library.
Then Clio dies under mysterious circumstances.
Now only Rosalind, Clio’s sole female heir, can keep the Library of Atlantis open. It won’t be an easy job. The fae don’t trust her. Her sasquatch bodyguard Henry wants her to quit. Oh, and there’s a fire-breathing dragon rampaging on the library grounds.
Can Rosalind really run the mythical Library of Atlantis? Or will the same killer catch her before she even has the chance to try?
Curse of the Fae Library is perfect for readers who enjoy cozy paranormal fantasy with a dash of adventure and romance. Readers of Magical Midlife Mom will delight in revisiting familiar characters, although you can enjoy this series without reading any prior books.
After a bitter divorce and no job prospects, forty-year-old Rosalind Baldwin yearns for a fresh start. She gets her chance when her estranged grandmother Clio urges her to come for a visit. But Clio is no ordinary grandma. She’s the legendary Librarian of Atlantis, a powerful fae who guards the sentient ash tree that houses a magical library.
Then Clio dies under mysterious circumstances.
Now only Rosalind, Clio’s sole female heir, can keep the Library of Atlantis open. It won’t be an easy job. The fae don’t trust her. Her sasquatch bodyguard Henry wants her to quit. Oh, and there’s a fire-breathing dragon rampaging on the library grounds.
Can Rosalind really run the mythical Library of Atlantis? Or will the same killer catch her before she even has the chance to try?
Curse of the Fae Library is perfect for readers who enjoy cozy paranormal fantasy with a dash of adventure and romance. Readers of Magical Midlife Mom will delight in revisiting familiar characters, although you can enjoy this series without reading any prior books.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2024
254 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
D.M. Fike
24books39followersDM Fike worked in the video game industry for over a decade, starting out as a project manager and eventually becoming a story writer for characters, plots, and missions. Born in Idaho's Magic Valley (you can't make this stuff up), DM Fike lived in Japan teaching English before calling Oregon home. She loves family, fantasy, and food (mostly in that order) and is on the constant look out for new co-op board games to play.
Check out my website for free stories you can't find anywhere else.
Check out my website for free stories you can't find anywhere else.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 11, 2024
3.5 stars. In THE CURSE OF THE FAE LIBRARY, Rosalind Baldwin discovers she is a muse, and the only person with the ability to connect to the tree that houses the magical fae library. Her grandmother previously held this role until her suspicious death several weeks earlier. Despite her reservations on this being a lifelong job, Rosalind accepts a one-week trial run in the role, learning much about the fae and her own abilities in the process.
THE CURSE OF THE FAE LIBRARY was a little heavy-handed with the middle-aged themes, especially since the main character is only forty-years-old. PLEASE, even women in their fifties and sixties don’t have the aches and difficulties like this character does. But aside from that, I loved how this book focused on Rosalind fulfilling her heritage of being a fae librarian inside a sentient ash tree after being raised as a human.
This book ended up being a quick, easy, and enjoyable read. I’ll definitely continue the series.
THE CURSE OF THE FAE LIBRARY was a little heavy-handed with the middle-aged themes, especially since the main character is only forty-years-old. PLEASE, even women in their fifties and sixties don’t have the aches and difficulties like this character does. But aside from that, I loved how this book focused on Rosalind fulfilling her heritage of being a fae librarian inside a sentient ash tree after being raised as a human.
This book ended up being a quick, easy, and enjoyable read. I’ll definitely continue the series.
March 25, 2024
"Why couldn't reading be a form of exercise" Doesn't this just about sum up how we all feel! My favorite quote from this book!
This is a fun, PWF book about Rosalind, a 40 year old woman who gets a divorce and heads back to her childhood home. While going through her parent’s things, she finds a lockbox with strange letters addressed to her from a grandmother she never knew she had. After replacing a brick in a “fairy ring� in the woods, she ends up in a strange new world and finds out she is actually a half-fae muse and the heir to being Librarian of the tree Yggdrasil. It reminded me of Alice falling down the rabbit hole into a whole new world!
While adjusting to this new information and trying to decide if she wants the job at all, she is guarded by Henry, a sasquatch, from the police of the fae world. There is also a dragon that seems to keep finding her as well. With characters like Jack Frost, Krampus and of course Klaus (Santa) this is a fun and cozy read. The author does a wonderful job of building the world up and really getting into the mindset of all the characters. Rosalind is not a door mat, but still lets her ex-husband rile her up, she doubts herself and what she can do. But with the help of Yggdrasil, Henry and a group of surly dwarves all that is about to change! I also love how some unexpected and well know characters like Krampus and Klaus have become fae. What a wonderful explanation for the long-lived legends they are!
This was the first time I read this author and it won't be the last! I will definitely be looking into her previous series (this one is a spin-off) since it had already been on my TBR list!
This is a fun, PWF book about Rosalind, a 40 year old woman who gets a divorce and heads back to her childhood home. While going through her parent’s things, she finds a lockbox with strange letters addressed to her from a grandmother she never knew she had. After replacing a brick in a “fairy ring� in the woods, she ends up in a strange new world and finds out she is actually a half-fae muse and the heir to being Librarian of the tree Yggdrasil. It reminded me of Alice falling down the rabbit hole into a whole new world!
While adjusting to this new information and trying to decide if she wants the job at all, she is guarded by Henry, a sasquatch, from the police of the fae world. There is also a dragon that seems to keep finding her as well. With characters like Jack Frost, Krampus and of course Klaus (Santa) this is a fun and cozy read. The author does a wonderful job of building the world up and really getting into the mindset of all the characters. Rosalind is not a door mat, but still lets her ex-husband rile her up, she doubts herself and what she can do. But with the help of Yggdrasil, Henry and a group of surly dwarves all that is about to change! I also love how some unexpected and well know characters like Krampus and Klaus have become fae. What a wonderful explanation for the long-lived legends they are!
This was the first time I read this author and it won't be the last! I will definitely be looking into her previous series (this one is a spin-off) since it had already been on my TBR list!
August 7, 2024
Another one of my holiday reads! I absolutely loved 𝑪𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒂𝒆 𝑳𝒊𝒃𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒚 by @DM Fike - Fantasy Author! It was an unputdownable cozy read, I devoured it in one day. I was all in at "sentient library", and it fully delivered. I loved this book, leaving me smiling and feeling happy.
As well as a living magical tree, Yggdrasil (Iggy for short!), and Atlantis, this story has hidden family history, mysterious deadly dragons and a grumpy golden-hearted bodyguard. Not to mention, of course, the tricksy fae themselves.
Being a "midlife" book, there are themes of finding yourself, no matter your age. If you're not familiar with the "midlife" genre, the protagonist is a little older, usually with an acriminous divorce in their pocket, and this was no exception. It was delightful when Rosalind found the strength of will to tell her ex to take a long walk off a short peer. An excellent "midlife" read, a cut above the majority of others I have read in this genre.
This book was clearly written in the same universe as another series by the same author, but I had no issues at all picking this series up first. Still, I loved this one so I will definifetely be reading the sister series too!
This series is in Kindle Unlimited, with only 88 ratings (of which only 9 are actual reviews!) this book really deserves an army of fans. A true hidden gem, I'm annoyed it took me so long to get to it. Beautiful, charming, light-hearted escapisim.
As well as a living magical tree, Yggdrasil (Iggy for short!), and Atlantis, this story has hidden family history, mysterious deadly dragons and a grumpy golden-hearted bodyguard. Not to mention, of course, the tricksy fae themselves.
Being a "midlife" book, there are themes of finding yourself, no matter your age. If you're not familiar with the "midlife" genre, the protagonist is a little older, usually with an acriminous divorce in their pocket, and this was no exception. It was delightful when Rosalind found the strength of will to tell her ex to take a long walk off a short peer. An excellent "midlife" read, a cut above the majority of others I have read in this genre.
This book was clearly written in the same universe as another series by the same author, but I had no issues at all picking this series up first. Still, I loved this one so I will definifetely be reading the sister series too!
This series is in Kindle Unlimited, with only 88 ratings (of which only 9 are actual reviews!) this book really deserves an army of fans. A true hidden gem, I'm annoyed it took me so long to get to it. Beautiful, charming, light-hearted escapisim.
February 17, 2025
Book Review: The Curse of the Fae Library by DM Fike
Rating: 3.5/5
The Curse of the Fae Library is a charming "reinvent yourself" story with a whimsical twist. Rosalind, newly divorced and struggling to find her purpose, returns home to stay with her brother, Jason, as she tries to rebuild her life. While Jason seems supportive, his role in her life becomes uncertain when she considers becoming the town librarian—almost as if there's no room for both of them in her new path. Additionally, despite their grandmother’s supposed love for both Rosalind and Jason, she only wrote letters to Rosalind, which feels like an odd inconsistency.
If you suspend those concerns, the novel takes a delightful turn into a fantastical world centered around a living library. The story blends Christmas lore with mythical creatures, including Bigfoot and fairies, creating a unique and immersive setting. At its heart, this book is about a woman searching for her place in the world—only to become a Beacon, helping others do the same. Rosalind’s journey teaches her to look beyond surface appearances, uncover true motivations, and perhaps even guide people toward the books that will change their lives.
While the fantasy elements are enchanting, the writing leans more toward young adult than a mature woman's story, which may not be what all readers expect. However, if read during the holiday season, the festive undertones might make it a more magical and timely experience.
Rating: 3.5/5
The Curse of the Fae Library is a charming "reinvent yourself" story with a whimsical twist. Rosalind, newly divorced and struggling to find her purpose, returns home to stay with her brother, Jason, as she tries to rebuild her life. While Jason seems supportive, his role in her life becomes uncertain when she considers becoming the town librarian—almost as if there's no room for both of them in her new path. Additionally, despite their grandmother’s supposed love for both Rosalind and Jason, she only wrote letters to Rosalind, which feels like an odd inconsistency.
If you suspend those concerns, the novel takes a delightful turn into a fantastical world centered around a living library. The story blends Christmas lore with mythical creatures, including Bigfoot and fairies, creating a unique and immersive setting. At its heart, this book is about a woman searching for her place in the world—only to become a Beacon, helping others do the same. Rosalind’s journey teaches her to look beyond surface appearances, uncover true motivations, and perhaps even guide people toward the books that will change their lives.
While the fantasy elements are enchanting, the writing leans more toward young adult than a mature woman's story, which may not be what all readers expect. However, if read during the holiday season, the festive undertones might make it a more magical and timely experience.
April 22, 2024
This is a charming tale about a 40 year old woman who, after a divorce, needs to find a new path and reinvent herself. Be careful what you ask for!! She got that - and then some!
Rosalind finds a whole new fae world that she had no idea existed and she is a significant part of. She tries her best to make sense of it all, understand this stunning world and accept the responsibility that is hers to bear.
This book has a very interesting take on Yggdrasil - the Tree of Life - and Atlantis. Both have been written about many times and are a staple in fantasy, but this combines them in a unique and refreshing way.
Wonderful characters, an engrossing story and excellent writing makes this adventure YA suitable and a fun read for adults!!
Rosalind finds a whole new fae world that she had no idea existed and she is a significant part of. She tries her best to make sense of it all, understand this stunning world and accept the responsibility that is hers to bear.
This book has a very interesting take on Yggdrasil - the Tree of Life - and Atlantis. Both have been written about many times and are a staple in fantasy, but this combines them in a unique and refreshing way.
Wonderful characters, an engrossing story and excellent writing makes this adventure YA suitable and a fun read for adults!!
August 13, 2024
I’d like to apply for the position of librarian’s assistant
I’m not a muse, so I don’t think I qualify to be head librarian, but she must need an assistant, right? My qualifications include:
-The ability to read (and a great and abiding love for words).
-An appreciation for people of all cultures, including fae, dwarves, sasquatch, fairies, etc.
-Willingness to learn new ways of doing things, including improvements on the Dewey Decimal System.
-Eagerness to serve a sentient tree that is also a magical library for the good of all supernatural beings.
-Bonus � I’m very good with cats, which should translate into being good with dragons as well.
Thank you for your time and I really hope you’ll consider me for this position.
I’m not a muse, so I don’t think I qualify to be head librarian, but she must need an assistant, right? My qualifications include:
-The ability to read (and a great and abiding love for words).
-An appreciation for people of all cultures, including fae, dwarves, sasquatch, fairies, etc.
-Willingness to learn new ways of doing things, including improvements on the Dewey Decimal System.
-Eagerness to serve a sentient tree that is also a magical library for the good of all supernatural beings.
-Bonus � I’m very good with cats, which should translate into being good with dragons as well.
Thank you for your time and I really hope you’ll consider me for this position.
September 16, 2024
Rosalind Baldwin, recently divorced and digging through her Father's storage unit, dicoveres letters from mer Maternal Grandmother, Clio, whom she has never met. The letters ask Rose to visit a fairy ring. Not expecting anything to happen, Rose stumbles through a portal to the Library of Atlantis, the living magical tree, Yggdrasil (Iggy for short!), in Atlantis! What she discovers, after that substantial shock, is that Clio died recently under rather suspicious circumstances, ans as her only female heir, Rose is the next Librarian.
This story has family secrets, a dragon and swoony, if grumpy bodyguard. Recommended if you like cozy mysteries, books about living libraries and Fae Court politics.
This story has family secrets, a dragon and swoony, if grumpy bodyguard. Recommended if you like cozy mysteries, books about living libraries and Fae Court politics.
May 3, 2025
Loved this waaay more than I expected.
I’ve been reading several cozy fantasy romances. Most are okay to fine - enjoyable enough that I’m glad to have read them. This book is a whole other matter. First, the quality of writing is several cuts above other similar novels I’ve read; an enjoyable breath of fresh air. Not only interesting, but *well written*, characters. (*ahhh*) Second, the world Fike has created, especially the library and Rosalind’s relationship with it, is fascinating, exciting, and endearing. I have to say, I didn’t pay much attention to the romance; I was so captivated by everything else. Third, this created world feels very thought out but also like this book has only scratched the surface. I’m excited to keep reading more books! (Yay! more books!)
I’ve been reading several cozy fantasy romances. Most are okay to fine - enjoyable enough that I’m glad to have read them. This book is a whole other matter. First, the quality of writing is several cuts above other similar novels I’ve read; an enjoyable breath of fresh air. Not only interesting, but *well written*, characters. (*ahhh*) Second, the world Fike has created, especially the library and Rosalind’s relationship with it, is fascinating, exciting, and endearing. I have to say, I didn’t pay much attention to the romance; I was so captivated by everything else. Third, this created world feels very thought out but also like this book has only scratched the surface. I’m excited to keep reading more books! (Yay! more books!)
July 23, 2024
Great start
Great start to this new series. This is the first book from this author that I have read and I really enjoyed it. I have read quite a few of these midlife fantasy novels and this is truly one of the better ones. I like that the novel is really about what it feels like to find your place later in life without romance - at least only the touch that exists anytime people meet. If you’re an honest adult, you have to admit that you look at people, even if you are not really in the place to want a relationship. Anyway, well worth reading and I will pick up the next book in the series.
Great start to this new series. This is the first book from this author that I have read and I really enjoyed it. I have read quite a few of these midlife fantasy novels and this is truly one of the better ones. I like that the novel is really about what it feels like to find your place later in life without romance - at least only the touch that exists anytime people meet. If you’re an honest adult, you have to admit that you look at people, even if you are not really in the place to want a relationship. Anyway, well worth reading and I will pick up the next book in the series.
April 19, 2024
I thought this book was a riot. It grabbed me from the beginning and I read it in one sitting with breaks for laughter. Rosalind returns to her childhood home after her divorce and finds out that her mother had secrets and she ends up as the Librarian of Atlantis but must survive her first week. Fun characters, funny scenes, and Rosalind herself was a riot at times as she learns about the fae realm. A mix of a comedy and a dash of mystery with magic thrown in to spice it all up. Loved it and cannot wait to see what happens next and what trouble Rosalind finds next.
April 19, 2024
Fae library!
A new start on life for Rosalind, 40 and just divorced, to rebuild her life and her self esteem by becoming the muse librarian inside the wonderful, magical, Tree of Life. Interesting characters and world building bring this magical story to life. I'm looking forward to more magical adventures learning about the fae and the Tree of Life, watching the characters grow as the series unfolds. A very enjoyable story to read.
A new start on life for Rosalind, 40 and just divorced, to rebuild her life and her self esteem by becoming the muse librarian inside the wonderful, magical, Tree of Life. Interesting characters and world building bring this magical story to life. I'm looking forward to more magical adventures learning about the fae and the Tree of Life, watching the characters grow as the series unfolds. A very enjoyable story to read.
April 29, 2024
Lots of fun! A book in the same world as Mom of the Chosen One. Some character crossovers between the two. I really liked Rosalind Baldwin. She reminds me of a younger version of myself. The big plot twist at the end didn't end up quite how I expected it, which was delightful.
If you like cozy fantasy with dragons and magical libraries, and want a nice, slow burn (and I mean SLOW) romance, read it!
If you like cozy fantasy with dragons and magical libraries, and want a nice, slow burn (and I mean SLOW) romance, read it!
August 26, 2024
Really enjoyed the premise of the story. As a book lover, the thought of being the Librarian to a lost library is not only appealing, but makes for a great character, and plot. The characters are good, and if you have not read any other books by this author…or it has been a while since you read them, you will not be lost. Many of the minor characters are well rounded, and I hope they develop even more in the next book. Recommend this for a fun read.
August 27, 2024
Wonderful!
I happened upon this book while searching Kindle unlimited for paranormal women's books. And I'm so glad I did! I was engaged throughout, though the big points are rather obvious. Despite not having much "mystery", I adored the book (I may have known what would happen, but I enjoyed the journey anyway). I plan to both continue this series, but also read the other by the author. So far, I'm invested!
I happened upon this book while searching Kindle unlimited for paranormal women's books. And I'm so glad I did! I was engaged throughout, though the big points are rather obvious. Despite not having much "mystery", I adored the book (I may have known what would happen, but I enjoyed the journey anyway). I plan to both continue this series, but also read the other by the author. So far, I'm invested!
September 10, 2024
Entertaining, Comedic & Cozy
This was a super cute start to a series, with just enough action to keep me enthralled from start to finish. An easy read that stays true to life’s unfortunate tragedies as we age (divorce, loss of loved ones, etc), yet full of magic and entertaining characters, with a lighter-hearted and cozy story arc. Well written, with good world and character building. Definitely recommend
This was a super cute start to a series, with just enough action to keep me enthralled from start to finish. An easy read that stays true to life’s unfortunate tragedies as we age (divorce, loss of loved ones, etc), yet full of magic and entertaining characters, with a lighter-hearted and cozy story arc. Well written, with good world and character building. Definitely recommend
May 9, 2024
A Library, dragon what’s not to love!
A Library, dragon what’s not to love! Interesting premise, presented well. I enjoyed all the characters and there is room for them all to grow and more to come. Using the known ones like Santa but fleshing them out was a great side piece that added a lot to the plot. Love Iggy as the Library absolutely perfect can’t wait to read more.
A Library, dragon what’s not to love! Interesting premise, presented well. I enjoyed all the characters and there is room for them all to grow and more to come. Using the known ones like Santa but fleshing them out was a great side piece that added a lot to the plot. Love Iggy as the Library absolutely perfect can’t wait to read more.
August 12, 2024
A joy to Read
I always dreamed of being a librarian as a child so getting the chance to read this book was an absolute joy.
I liked seeing Melissa from her other series and how the author expanded the world to contain the library. They meshed together very well and made it feel believable.
I always dreamed of being a librarian as a child so getting the chance to read this book was an absolute joy.
I liked seeing Melissa from her other series and how the author expanded the world to contain the library. They meshed together very well and made it feel believable.
November 27, 2024
So unique!
I was hooked into this story immediately! Having lost my mother 3 years ago I felt some kinship with the main character. I simply couldn't stop reading and finished in under a day. (I did have to get SOME sleep lol) I greatly look forward to reading more. Simply love it!
I was hooked into this story immediately! Having lost my mother 3 years ago I felt some kinship with the main character. I simply couldn't stop reading and finished in under a day. (I did have to get SOME sleep lol) I greatly look forward to reading more. Simply love it!
April 24, 2024
quirky
I loved the library and Iggy! Lots of characters I knew in a different view. And who doesn’t love a dragon. Definitely worth your time to learn about Rosalind and her powers.
I loved the library and Iggy! Lots of characters I knew in a different view. And who doesn’t love a dragon. Definitely worth your time to learn about Rosalind and her powers.
April 27, 2024
A fine start for a new series.
The characters are wonderful and quirky. The plot is twisty and interesting. The world building is great. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
The characters are wonderful and quirky. The plot is twisty and interesting. The world building is great. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
August 4, 2024
What an absolutely delightful book!
Rosalind is the hot-mess express. After a failed marriage and moving back home with her tail between her legs, she happens to discover who she is and what she is called to do.
I mean we have fae and library in the title - what is there not to love?
Rosalind is the hot-mess express. After a failed marriage and moving back home with her tail between her legs, she happens to discover who she is and what she is called to do.
I mean we have fae and library in the title - what is there not to love?
February 21, 2025
It's all fun and games until there's a dragon!
This was a great story. The characters were fun and I enjoyed seeing how Rose grew into her role. Can't wait to see what other adventures she has now that she's accepted her role.
This was a great story. The characters were fun and I enjoyed seeing how Rose grew into her role. Can't wait to see what other adventures she has now that she's accepted her role.
April 24, 2024
This story was really fun! I felt like it was predictable, but cozy.
May 5, 2024
A Magical Place
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it ended too soon for me. I wish I could visit the library for real.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it ended too soon for me. I wish I could visit the library for real.
May 17, 2024
Ugh, SO good! Plus, I love that it's kind of a follow up to Fike's "Mom of the Chosen One" series. Loved this story and can't wait for the next in the series!!!
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 23, 2024The FMC 's internal dialogue feels immature to me, especially for a 40 year old.
Dnf 18%
Dnf 18%
October 24, 2024
Loved this cozy read
I loved everything about this book the cozy vibes, the sentient tree and how things can appear or disappear at will., and the characters. Incredibly fun read.
I loved everything about this book the cozy vibes, the sentient tree and how things can appear or disappear at will., and the characters. Incredibly fun read.
October 28, 2024
A Thirst for Knowledge is a very good thing!!!!
Magic, adventures, interesting characters, a fire breathing dragon!!!
Dilemmas galore, more adventures to read!!!! Enjoy!!!
Magic, adventures, interesting characters, a fire breathing dragon!!!
Dilemmas galore, more adventures to read!!!! Enjoy!!!
December 29, 2024
Magic and comfort.
After all the intense travel and holiday excitement reading this book was soothing. I have loved fantasy books since age three.
After all the intense travel and holiday excitement reading this book was soothing. I have loved fantasy books since age three.
January 5, 2025
If you want cosy mystery and magic, this is it. A fantastic Feel Good book.
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