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Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions #1
Lizzy's Story: Pride & Prejudice & Potions
(This book contains no spice and no language.)
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Austen Heights is a sleepy little town—until a murder wakes it up.
Elizabeth Bennet’s life is exactly what you’d expect for a half-witch, half-fae in a small town. She shares a cozy apartment with roommates, writes about social events for the local newspaper, and helps out in her family’s bakery—famous for its love potions, gossip, and her mother’s poor nerves. But when her mom becomes a suspect in a murder case, the predictable headlines of Lizzy’s life take a chilling turn.
Determined to clear her mother’s name, Lizzy throws herself into the investigation. While chasing a lead, a spell goes awry, tangling her fate—quite literally—with her number one suspect: the arrogant, brooding Darcy. The only thing worse than searching for clues with the intolerable fae by her side? Her growing attraction to him.
Can Lizzy crack the case and get her scoop before the killer strikes again? Or will her prejudice and his pride be the death of them both?
~Pride and Prejudice and Potions is a multi-author series of modern standalone cozy mystery novellas that retells the greatest love story of all time while revealing the secrets lurking beneath. Across twelve enchanting tales of entangled hearts, discover the stories that were never told and get to know these beloved characters like never before. Even Jane Austen couldn't have predicted this season of scandal and sorcery.
This is book 1 of 12 in Pride & Prejudice & Potions. Each mystery can be read as a stand-alone, but reading out of order may reveal spoilers.
Since every book follows part of Jane Austen’s original Pride & Prejudice, here’s the suggested chronological reading order:
Lizzy’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Caroline’s Story by Michelle Cowart
Mary’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
Kitty’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Jane’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Charlotte’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Anne's Story by Michelle Cowart
Georgiana’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Lydia’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Wickham’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
Charles’s Story by Michelle Cowart
Darcy’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
It is a truth universally acknowledged that Austen Heights is a sleepy little town—until a murder wakes it up.
Elizabeth Bennet’s life is exactly what you’d expect for a half-witch, half-fae in a small town. She shares a cozy apartment with roommates, writes about social events for the local newspaper, and helps out in her family’s bakery—famous for its love potions, gossip, and her mother’s poor nerves. But when her mom becomes a suspect in a murder case, the predictable headlines of Lizzy’s life take a chilling turn.
Determined to clear her mother’s name, Lizzy throws herself into the investigation. While chasing a lead, a spell goes awry, tangling her fate—quite literally—with her number one suspect: the arrogant, brooding Darcy. The only thing worse than searching for clues with the intolerable fae by her side? Her growing attraction to him.
Can Lizzy crack the case and get her scoop before the killer strikes again? Or will her prejudice and his pride be the death of them both?
~Pride and Prejudice and Potions is a multi-author series of modern standalone cozy mystery novellas that retells the greatest love story of all time while revealing the secrets lurking beneath. Across twelve enchanting tales of entangled hearts, discover the stories that were never told and get to know these beloved characters like never before. Even Jane Austen couldn't have predicted this season of scandal and sorcery.
This is book 1 of 12 in Pride & Prejudice & Potions. Each mystery can be read as a stand-alone, but reading out of order may reveal spoilers.
Since every book follows part of Jane Austen’s original Pride & Prejudice, here’s the suggested chronological reading order:
Lizzy’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Caroline’s Story by Michelle Cowart
Mary’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
Kitty’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Jane’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Charlotte’s Story by Laura M. Drake
Anne's Story by Michelle Cowart
Georgiana’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Lydia’s Story by Rebecca Yockey
Wickham’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
Charles’s Story by Michelle Cowart
Darcy’s Story by J. Ann Curtis
302 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2025
54 people are currently reading
2160 people want to read
About the author
Laura M. Drake
25 books188 followersMy name is Laura M. Drake, and I'm the youngest of five kids. I grew up in Arkansas and moved to Utah to attend Brigham Young University. After spending three summers abroad in France, Japan, and China, I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and began teaching 4th grade near Salt Lake City. A few years later I moved back to Japan to fulfill a life-long dream of living there. When Covid got bad, I came back to America and have been living in Arkansas and writing full-time ever since. I'll soon be moving to UT and look forward to the new adventures that await me there. When I'm not writing (which isn't very often--I should probably get a life haha) I love playing ultimate frisbee, board games, writing in my journal, and spending time with friends and family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
August 28, 2025
Pride and Prejudice meets cozy mystery meets romance meets witchy, magical, and paranormal!
I love how the author takes Pride & Prejudice, but mixes in cozy mystery, obviously some romance, and witchy magical vibes! It is so perfect, and such a fun read. This story in the series focuses on FMC Lizzy, half fae/half witch, who is back in Austen Heights (temporarily according to her) to help out while her father is sick. She currently writes for the local newspaper, articles that she finds rather boring, so is looking for her next big scoop. Lo and behold, there is a mysterious murder, and Lizzy jumps on the case to try and find the murderer.
MMC Darcy, a mysterious fae, seems to fit the bill for primary suspect in the murder case. Lizzy very much dislikes the fae, who appears to find everyone else beneath him. While Lizzy is working her leads, she and Darcy are quite unexpectedly "stuck" together for the unforeseeable future. Will their dislike of each other turn to something else?
I enjoyed everything about Lizzy's story. The fact that her and her sisters are half fae/half witch, so they have special abilities. I can see Lizzy's ability being very useful in mystery cases! The tension between Lizzy and Darcy is perfect, and I really enjoyed the mystery behind Darcy's character that is revealed near the end. I love the name of the family bakery, "Cupid's Confections" where they sell pastries and love potions, and also the Bennett mom whose main goal in life is to get all her daughters married off to rich men.
I am excited to read book 2, Caroline's story, and see where the next mystery leads!
Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!
I love how the author takes Pride & Prejudice, but mixes in cozy mystery, obviously some romance, and witchy magical vibes! It is so perfect, and such a fun read. This story in the series focuses on FMC Lizzy, half fae/half witch, who is back in Austen Heights (temporarily according to her) to help out while her father is sick. She currently writes for the local newspaper, articles that she finds rather boring, so is looking for her next big scoop. Lo and behold, there is a mysterious murder, and Lizzy jumps on the case to try and find the murderer.
MMC Darcy, a mysterious fae, seems to fit the bill for primary suspect in the murder case. Lizzy very much dislikes the fae, who appears to find everyone else beneath him. While Lizzy is working her leads, she and Darcy are quite unexpectedly "stuck" together for the unforeseeable future. Will their dislike of each other turn to something else?
I enjoyed everything about Lizzy's story. The fact that her and her sisters are half fae/half witch, so they have special abilities. I can see Lizzy's ability being very useful in mystery cases! The tension between Lizzy and Darcy is perfect, and I really enjoyed the mystery behind Darcy's character that is revealed near the end. I love the name of the family bakery, "Cupid's Confections" where they sell pastries and love potions, and also the Bennett mom whose main goal in life is to get all her daughters married off to rich men.
I am excited to read book 2, Caroline's story, and see where the next mystery leads!
Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!
September 16, 2025
"Pride & Prejudice & Potions: Lizzy's Story" by Laura M. Drake is a different take on the Jane Austin characters. Lizzy is a half-witch half-fae reporter living in the magical town Austen Heights. Austen Heights is within a memory bubble that keeps the non-magical world from remembering that magic really does exist. Lizzy is back in town to help her family's potion shop. Her dad is very ill and her social ladder climbing mom wants to get all the sisters married off to higher social standing men.
While trying to investigate a vision she had about a murder, Lizzy ends up with all the women of her family at a club. There she bumps into the handsome Fae, Darcy, and his friend, Charles. Charles is pretty high up in fae society and he's taken a liking to Lizzy's sister, Jane. Unfortunately, Darcy and Lizzy get magically stuck together and decide to pretend they're dating to explain having to pretty much hold hands everywhere.
Lucky for Lizzy, Darcy and Charles are also searching for answers about the murder in Lizzy's vision. Things get a bit more magical and dangerous. Eventually, things wrap up about how I expected them too. My main suspect was a bit off but the motive was correct. This book is a cozy romance mystery with familiar characters in a new way.
While trying to investigate a vision she had about a murder, Lizzy ends up with all the women of her family at a club. There she bumps into the handsome Fae, Darcy, and his friend, Charles. Charles is pretty high up in fae society and he's taken a liking to Lizzy's sister, Jane. Unfortunately, Darcy and Lizzy get magically stuck together and decide to pretend they're dating to explain having to pretty much hold hands everywhere.
Lucky for Lizzy, Darcy and Charles are also searching for answers about the murder in Lizzy's vision. Things get a bit more magical and dangerous. Eventually, things wrap up about how I expected them too. My main suspect was a bit off but the motive was correct. This book is a cozy romance mystery with familiar characters in a new way.
August 16, 2025
PRIDE & PREJUDICE & POTIONS.
JANE AUSTIN COZY MYSTERIES.
LIZZYS STORY
BY LAURA M DRAKE.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I had the absolute pleasure of ARC reading this and I loved every minute of it.
Can we just take a moment to truly take in the cover for this book. Its absolutely Stunning and just beautiful.
I've been in a reading slump the last few days and when this book landed on my kindle I immediately started reading.. goodbye reading slump.
Hooked from the very beginning until the very end.
I loved every single thing about this book.
Amazing characters and great storyline.
Honestly I cant wait to light a 🎃 spice candle and carry on reading the rest of the series. This series is going to be amazeballs and I for one cannot wait
JANE AUSTIN COZY MYSTERIES.
LIZZYS STORY
BY LAURA M DRAKE.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
I had the absolute pleasure of ARC reading this and I loved every minute of it.
Can we just take a moment to truly take in the cover for this book. Its absolutely Stunning and just beautiful.
I've been in a reading slump the last few days and when this book landed on my kindle I immediately started reading.. goodbye reading slump.
Hooked from the very beginning until the very end.
I loved every single thing about this book.
Amazing characters and great storyline.
Honestly I cant wait to light a 🎃 spice candle and carry on reading the rest of the series. This series is going to be amazeballs and I for one cannot wait
October 20, 2025
OMG 4.5/5⭐️!!
I had the pleasure of ARC reading this book and I couldn’t have loved it more!!
I fell in LOVE with the characters, and the quick paced storyline made it impossible to put down!
This was the perfect story to kickstart fall and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!🤭
If you are looking for a quick, fun, small town story, look no further!!🩷
I had the pleasure of ARC reading this book and I couldn’t have loved it more!!
I fell in LOVE with the characters, and the quick paced storyline made it impossible to put down!
This was the perfect story to kickstart fall and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!🤭
If you are looking for a quick, fun, small town story, look no further!!🩷
November 3, 2025
PRCS. Won my copy from Goodreads giveaways!
October 16, 2025
3.5⭐️
Lizzy, a half-fae, half-witch reporter in the small town of Austen Heights, is always on the hunt for her next big scoop. Enter Darcy — a High Fae who’s broody, arrogant, and utterly intolerable to Lizzy.
While chasing down a lead on a murder, their fates become unexpectedly tangled. She’s chasing a killer… but is her heart the real danger?
This was the perfect lighthearted fall read with a touch of modern cozy mystery vibes. I loved how it reimagined the beloved characters from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — keeping their charm, wit, and yearning, but with a witchy twist!
Lizzy, a half-fae, half-witch reporter in the small town of Austen Heights, is always on the hunt for her next big scoop. Enter Darcy — a High Fae who’s broody, arrogant, and utterly intolerable to Lizzy.
While chasing down a lead on a murder, their fates become unexpectedly tangled. She’s chasing a killer… but is her heart the real danger?
This was the perfect lighthearted fall read with a touch of modern cozy mystery vibes. I loved how it reimagined the beloved characters from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice — keeping their charm, wit, and yearning, but with a witchy twist!
August 29, 2025
his was such a fun twist on Pride & Prejudice! Imagine a cozy little magical town, some witches and fae, and. oh yeah, a murder to solve. Lizzy is stubborn and witty (just like you’d hope), Darcy is broody in the best way, and their banter kept me grinning.
I loved how the paranormal elements gave the classic story a whole new vibe, and the fall festival/Halloween setting made it extra cozy. It’s part murder mystery, part romance, and just a really enjoyable read overall.
Perfect if you love Jane Austen with a magical, cozy mystery spin! Thanks to the author for the gifted arc.
I loved how the paranormal elements gave the classic story a whole new vibe, and the fall festival/Halloween setting made it extra cozy. It’s part murder mystery, part romance, and just a really enjoyable read overall.
Perfect if you love Jane Austen with a magical, cozy mystery spin! Thanks to the author for the gifted arc.
September 9, 2025
I picked this up after seeing the cover and completely fell for the story! What a fun read it was. I loved the mix of mystery and romance throughout. Lizzy’s wit and Brody’s grumpiness were such a delight, and their beautiful bond made the story even more special. The magical elements full of fae, witches, and cosy vibes have my heart.
I’m so excited for the second book!
A huge thank you to the author for the e-ARC!
I’m so excited for the second book!
A huge thank you to the author for the e-ARC!
September 16, 2025
Got lucky enough to get an ARC for this magical, creative twist on Pride and Prejudice! From the moment Lizzy was revealed as half-fae, half-witch, I was hooked. The mix of small-town drama, cozy mystery, and classic romance tropes (yes, including fake dating!) made this such a fun read. The mystery kept me guessing, and the ending was satisfying without being obvious. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
September 7, 2025
3.5 stars ⭐️
I enjoyed this cozy read. Perfect to kick off the start of fall vibe reads! I loved the added mystery story line to the book - I did not guess who did it. The magic system is very intriguing and am interested in the changes in potential laws in coming books! I would have loved a little more tension between the main characters but still loved the little sparks we saw throughout.
October 16, 2025
I just finished reading this Pride & Prejudice reimagining, and as a big fan of the original, I wasn't sure how it would translate. The author however created magic, by taking the core story and setting it in a small, uniquely enchanted town.
The creative way the magic system was woven into the plot was intriguing, especially Darcy's magic. The forced proximity trope, was just so imaginative, and ensured Lizzy and Darcy were holding each other's hands throughout the book. It made that classic P&P tension feel even more sparky!
Beyond the romance, there was the added element of a mystery which Lizzy expertly solved, leading to an incredibly interesting twist that I did not see coming. I thought I had it almost figured out, but nope! It threw me for a loop in the best way possible.
I enjoyed this so much and I'm now totally hooked on the world the author created and can’t wait to read the rest of the series! If you love the dynamics of the original but want a cozy, magical setting and a killer (pun intended) plot, you absolutely have to pick this up.
The creative way the magic system was woven into the plot was intriguing, especially Darcy's magic. The forced proximity trope, was just so imaginative, and ensured Lizzy and Darcy were holding each other's hands throughout the book. It made that classic P&P tension feel even more sparky!
Beyond the romance, there was the added element of a mystery which Lizzy expertly solved, leading to an incredibly interesting twist that I did not see coming. I thought I had it almost figured out, but nope! It threw me for a loop in the best way possible.
I enjoyed this so much and I'm now totally hooked on the world the author created and can’t wait to read the rest of the series! If you love the dynamics of the original but want a cozy, magical setting and a killer (pun intended) plot, you absolutely have to pick this up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
Hallmark, Nancy Drew, and Jane Austen had a baby!
And it is this book! Super cute story. I’m a fan of P&P and I have to say this was a cute modern take on the story. Clean, while still having some tension and enemies to lovers burn going on! The fantasy world that’s added to this classic is a nice surprise. I really enjoyed it.
And it is this book! Super cute story. I’m a fan of P&P and I have to say this was a cute modern take on the story. Clean, while still having some tension and enemies to lovers burn going on! The fantasy world that’s added to this classic is a nice surprise. I really enjoyed it.
January 25, 2026
Definitely a Cozy mystery. After the first couple chapters I was able to get into the story more.
The story was easy to follow and it was well written. I enjoyed all the twists with each new element of surprise.
I can honestly say I have never read Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice before so I can't give my take on how this relates to it. But, I love the magical elements and the paranormal.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🔸️Cozy Fantasy
🔸️Cozy Mystery
🔸️Pride & Prejudice Retelling
🔸️Forced Proximity
🔸️Small Town
The story was easy to follow and it was well written. I enjoyed all the twists with each new element of surprise.
I can honestly say I have never read Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice before so I can't give my take on how this relates to it. But, I love the magical elements and the paranormal.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🔸️Cozy Fantasy
🔸️Cozy Mystery
🔸️Pride & Prejudice Retelling
🔸️Forced Proximity
🔸️Small Town
October 26, 2025
Even though it’s a 3 star read for me, I really did enjoy this. It had some of my favorite tropes in it (one bed, mild enemies to lovers, forced proximity) and it stayed clean!
I also enjoyed the murder mystery. I hardly ever read murder mysteries, so maybe it doesn’t take much to please me there, but this one held my interest, and I guessed wrong on who the killer was, and that made it even better lol.
I loved the P&P aspects, very well done.
The romance I liked BUT by the end of the book I realized they’d only known each other for about a week and it just put a damper on my enjoyment of Darcy and Lizzie’s relationship. Though to the author’s credit, no “I loved yous” were exchanged, so it did avoid having an insta love feel.
The only other thing I didn’t love was the nosy reporter vibes from Lizzie. I especially didn’t think it was right for her to talk to the victim’s minor sister to get info.
It’s a very readable book, flows well, paints a clear mental image. I would definitely read another book by this author.
Overall I liked it, and look forward to reading the rest in the series.
Content: clean, no spice, no swearing, mild violence, words like sexy and hot used, which normally drives me bonkers but seemed to work in this setting
I also enjoyed the murder mystery. I hardly ever read murder mysteries, so maybe it doesn’t take much to please me there, but this one held my interest, and I guessed wrong on who the killer was, and that made it even better lol.
I loved the P&P aspects, very well done.
The romance I liked BUT by the end of the book I realized they’d only known each other for about a week and it just put a damper on my enjoyment of Darcy and Lizzie’s relationship. Though to the author’s credit, no “I loved yous” were exchanged, so it did avoid having an insta love feel.
The only other thing I didn’t love was the nosy reporter vibes from Lizzie. I especially didn’t think it was right for her to talk to the victim’s minor sister to get info.
It’s a very readable book, flows well, paints a clear mental image. I would definitely read another book by this author.
Overall I liked it, and look forward to reading the rest in the series.
Content: clean, no spice, no swearing, mild violence, words like sexy and hot used, which normally drives me bonkers but seemed to work in this setting
November 7, 2025
Absolutely loved this take on Pride and Prejudice!! Definitely checks the cozy witchy vibes and I can't wait to continue with the series!
October 20, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Give me a grumpy MMC and a take no prisoners FMC and I’m hooked!! I was unsure if this series would be for me because I have never read Jane Austin’s books so was worried I would be a bit lost but I wasn’t in the slightest!
The character dynamics in this book are absolutely brilliant and probably one of my favourite parts.
There’s only one thing I’m still left wondering (and I’m sure I cant be alone in this), how did they go to the toilet????
The character dynamics in this book are absolutely brilliant and probably one of my favourite parts.
There’s only one thing I’m still left wondering (and I’m sure I cant be alone in this), how did they go to the toilet????
December 7, 2025
This was the first book by Laura M. Drake that I have read, and it won’t be my last! Her command of language and dialogue was superb, and she did a lovely job keeping the pace of the mystery balanced with the cozy setting and budding romance. I love how she (and the other authors in this series) modernized Austen’s work, and how characters from different books were seen in Austen Heights.
Lizzy’s Story is the first story in 12 modern stand-alone cozy mystery novellas. The authors recommend reading them in order to avoid spoilers, but each story centers on a different main character. This book opens with Lizzy and Jane working on potions with their mom and sisters. The reader quickly learns that Lizzy is a journalist with aspirations to leave Austen Heights. Her father, a fae, is ill, and her mother, a witch, is trying to hold it all together. Lizzy is given a tip that the famous fae, Charles Bingley, is in town, and she stumbles across Charles and his aloof friend Darcy at the local club. Drake did a lovely job capturing the essence of the original characters and modernizing them. Charles and Jane are as sweet and thoughtful as ever, and Lizzy and Darcy have abrasive banter. I loved seeing Miss Bates and her mother pop into the bakery, and Frank Churchill is considered the friendliest person in the town.
In addition to being a sweet romance, this story is a mystery. Lizzy witnesses the death of a fae man and is on the hunt to figure out his killer. Her mother is pulled in for questioning, and Lizzy must work quickly to clear her mother’s name. She also needs to figure out who is behind some strange occurrences in the town.
I loved this cozy, magical mystery, and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! I wish we saw more of Lizzy and Darcy once they admit that they like each other, but perhaps that is for another tale!
Thank you to Laura M. Drake for an ARC! All opinions are my own.
Lizzy’s Story is the first story in 12 modern stand-alone cozy mystery novellas. The authors recommend reading them in order to avoid spoilers, but each story centers on a different main character. This book opens with Lizzy and Jane working on potions with their mom and sisters. The reader quickly learns that Lizzy is a journalist with aspirations to leave Austen Heights. Her father, a fae, is ill, and her mother, a witch, is trying to hold it all together. Lizzy is given a tip that the famous fae, Charles Bingley, is in town, and she stumbles across Charles and his aloof friend Darcy at the local club. Drake did a lovely job capturing the essence of the original characters and modernizing them. Charles and Jane are as sweet and thoughtful as ever, and Lizzy and Darcy have abrasive banter. I loved seeing Miss Bates and her mother pop into the bakery, and Frank Churchill is considered the friendliest person in the town.
In addition to being a sweet romance, this story is a mystery. Lizzy witnesses the death of a fae man and is on the hunt to figure out his killer. Her mother is pulled in for questioning, and Lizzy must work quickly to clear her mother’s name. She also needs to figure out who is behind some strange occurrences in the town.
I loved this cozy, magical mystery, and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! I wish we saw more of Lizzy and Darcy once they admit that they like each other, but perhaps that is for another tale!
Thank you to Laura M. Drake for an ARC! All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2025
genre: Romance with a splash of fantasy & mystery
spice: 🫑 (flirty comments and devouring kisses)
tropes:
*Pride & Prejudice retelling
*Supernatural beings & magic (witches, fae, etc.)
*Forced Proximity- One bed
*Fall vibes
*Murder mystery
*Fake dating
summary:
Lizzy's Story is the first novel in the series.
Elizabeth Bennet, Lizzy, was used to the town's ridicule due to her mixed parentage which has led her to be prejudicial to those around her, including the high fae who look down on her for being a half breed.
When her mother is wrongly accused of murder, Lizzy embarks on finding out the truth, including getting close to a mysterious fae man, named Darcy, that Lizzy believes is the murder. Almost being murdered twice and a rogue spell cause the two to be closer than either would want.. Or so they think.
Lizzy and Darcy solve the mystery, but their story is not yet over.
my thoughts:
I LOVED Pride and Prejudice growing up (especially the movie with Keira Knightley) and watch and read every adaptation and retelling. Thus when I saw the opportunity to read a whole OMNIBUS of stories with the characters? I IMMEDIATELY signed up and I'm so glad that it started with Lizzy's story. Yes, there is a prequel but I haven't read that one YET lol 😅
I'm sure I can say that there is a lot of books that have fae's that feels a bit dragged out, but I can promise you, Laura and the other authors have incorporated Austen's story and other supernatural beings perfectly (and I'm only on the second book 🤪)
This story is PERFECT for my fellow readers who love Austen and might have rewatched the movie and other adaptations a million times. Also perfect for this spooky season with witches, mystery, and more 👻 Join me in falling in love with Austen Heights and the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series that'll continue to be released for weeks (and maybe months (; ) to come!
spice: 🫑 (flirty comments and devouring kisses)
tropes:
*Pride & Prejudice retelling
*Supernatural beings & magic (witches, fae, etc.)
*Forced Proximity- One bed
*Fall vibes
*Murder mystery
*Fake dating
summary:
Lizzy's Story is the first novel in the series.
Elizabeth Bennet, Lizzy, was used to the town's ridicule due to her mixed parentage which has led her to be prejudicial to those around her, including the high fae who look down on her for being a half breed.
When her mother is wrongly accused of murder, Lizzy embarks on finding out the truth, including getting close to a mysterious fae man, named Darcy, that Lizzy believes is the murder. Almost being murdered twice and a rogue spell cause the two to be closer than either would want.. Or so they think.
Lizzy and Darcy solve the mystery, but their story is not yet over.
my thoughts:
I LOVED Pride and Prejudice growing up (especially the movie with Keira Knightley) and watch and read every adaptation and retelling. Thus when I saw the opportunity to read a whole OMNIBUS of stories with the characters? I IMMEDIATELY signed up and I'm so glad that it started with Lizzy's story. Yes, there is a prequel but I haven't read that one YET lol 😅
I'm sure I can say that there is a lot of books that have fae's that feels a bit dragged out, but I can promise you, Laura and the other authors have incorporated Austen's story and other supernatural beings perfectly (and I'm only on the second book 🤪)
This story is PERFECT for my fellow readers who love Austen and might have rewatched the movie and other adaptations a million times. Also perfect for this spooky season with witches, mystery, and more 👻 Join me in falling in love with Austen Heights and the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series that'll continue to be released for weeks (and maybe months (; ) to come!
February 7, 2026
ℙ𝕣𝕚𝕕𝕖 & ℙ𝕣𝕖𝕛𝕦𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕖 & ℙ𝕠𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙏𝙮𝙥𝙚: Standalone Series
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Adult Cozy Romantasy
𝙋𝙊𝙑: Single - Her
𝙋𝙪𝙗 𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚: September 16, 2025
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 5⭐️
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 1.5🌶️ - Kissing, Yearning, lingering touches, banter
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨
❥ Dislike to Love
❥ Murder Mystery
❥ Cozy Witch Romance
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Witch/Fae
❥ Hidden Identity
❥ Small Town
❥ Cozy Autumn Aesthetic
❥ Slow Burn
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 & 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I am absolutely obsessed with this book. The story, the characters, the romance—everything swept me up into this magical world. I literally couldn't put the book down. Many squeals and leg kicks later I am still craving more! Not only is the setting a cozy fall vibe, but it gives off an air of mystery. And even better, I had no clue who the killer. I am in love!!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
❥ The forced proximity was absolute perfection. I can't give away any details or it will ruin it, but if you are a fan of forced proximity, slow-burn and yearning, you have to read this book.
❥ I love the murder mystery twist. It was intriguing and a unique perspective to your standard Pride and Prejudice retailings.
❥ The characters stole my heart instantly. I love that there will be more books from each of thier POVs—I need them all!
❥ The setting was everything. A charming little town wrapped in the beautiful golden hues of autumn. I could feel the crispness in the air and smell all of the wonderful scents of fall. I know I’ll be re-reading this one every fall.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
❥ My only issue is that is ended way to soon. I need more!!!
The author is an absolute gem. She was happy to send me an ARC copy even after my shameless begging. I knew as soon as I saw the book I needed it. Thank you for sharing this incredible story with me.
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙏𝙮𝙥𝙚: Standalone Series
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: Adult Cozy Romantasy
𝙋𝙊𝙑: Single - Her
𝙋𝙪𝙗 𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚: September 16, 2025
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: 5⭐️
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 1.5🌶️ - Kissing, Yearning, lingering touches, banter
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨
❥ Dislike to Love
❥ Murder Mystery
❥ Cozy Witch Romance
❥ Forced Proximity
❥ Witch/Fae
❥ Hidden Identity
❥ Small Town
❥ Cozy Autumn Aesthetic
❥ Slow Burn
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 & 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
I am absolutely obsessed with this book. The story, the characters, the romance—everything swept me up into this magical world. I literally couldn't put the book down. Many squeals and leg kicks later I am still craving more! Not only is the setting a cozy fall vibe, but it gives off an air of mystery. And even better, I had no clue who the killer. I am in love!!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
❥ The forced proximity was absolute perfection. I can't give away any details or it will ruin it, but if you are a fan of forced proximity, slow-burn and yearning, you have to read this book.
❥ I love the murder mystery twist. It was intriguing and a unique perspective to your standard Pride and Prejudice retailings.
❥ The characters stole my heart instantly. I love that there will be more books from each of thier POVs—I need them all!
❥ The setting was everything. A charming little town wrapped in the beautiful golden hues of autumn. I could feel the crispness in the air and smell all of the wonderful scents of fall. I know I’ll be re-reading this one every fall.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
❥ My only issue is that is ended way to soon. I need more!!!
The author is an absolute gem. She was happy to send me an ARC copy even after my shameless begging. I knew as soon as I saw the book I needed it. Thank you for sharing this incredible story with me.
September 9, 2025
The Ultimate Literary Love Potion.
Side effects may include:
severe crushes on suspicious fae, craving pumpkin spice, and believing you can solve a murder.
A witty half-witch, half-fae reporter with a golden heart and a loving family crosses paths with a grumpy, probably murderous, and definitely outrageously handsome highborne fae. What could go wrong?! Everything and nothing since Laura M. Drake has discovered the recipe for the perfect literary love potion.
The protagonists and the rest of the cast, equal parts fantastical and relatable, sweep the reader into a mesmerizing and utterly enjoyable dance of sizzling romance and seemingly unsolvable mystery. Set in a picturesque small coastal town decked out in its best autumn finery, every sentence, sparkling with charm and humor, was a delight to read, or rather, inhale in a single afternoon. I could practically feel the salty air, hear the fusion of crashing waves and crisping leaves, smell Mom's delicious scones, and see the jack-o’-lanterns winking at me from an enchanting, magical, yet modern and believable realm that effortlessly hosts fae, humans, witches, vampires, werewolves, and gnomes.
A perfectly plotted mystery meets a delightfully modern Austen-esque romance. This book is an absolute gem: clever, cozy, and brimming with heart. Light your scented candles, brew a maple pumpkin spice tea, curl up in your reading nook, and let Lizzy's Story take you on the coziest and most heartwarming one-way journey to Austen Heights.
Side effects may include:
severe crushes on suspicious fae, craving pumpkin spice, and believing you can solve a murder.
A witty half-witch, half-fae reporter with a golden heart and a loving family crosses paths with a grumpy, probably murderous, and definitely outrageously handsome highborne fae. What could go wrong?! Everything and nothing since Laura M. Drake has discovered the recipe for the perfect literary love potion.
The protagonists and the rest of the cast, equal parts fantastical and relatable, sweep the reader into a mesmerizing and utterly enjoyable dance of sizzling romance and seemingly unsolvable mystery. Set in a picturesque small coastal town decked out in its best autumn finery, every sentence, sparkling with charm and humor, was a delight to read, or rather, inhale in a single afternoon. I could practically feel the salty air, hear the fusion of crashing waves and crisping leaves, smell Mom's delicious scones, and see the jack-o’-lanterns winking at me from an enchanting, magical, yet modern and believable realm that effortlessly hosts fae, humans, witches, vampires, werewolves, and gnomes.
A perfectly plotted mystery meets a delightfully modern Austen-esque romance. This book is an absolute gem: clever, cozy, and brimming with heart. Light your scented candles, brew a maple pumpkin spice tea, curl up in your reading nook, and let Lizzy's Story take you on the coziest and most heartwarming one-way journey to Austen Heights.
October 7, 2025
This book!😍 I read it one evening. I didn't want it to end. I am a huge P&P fan and this is must on your TBR if you're one too. Pride & Prejudice & Potions has got everything you want in a cozy Fall read. It's witchy, there's a cute bakery, a little bit of mystery and a swoony Mr Darcy. I enjoyed getting to know all the characters again but from a different perspective...I loved that Mrs Bennett's nerves were mentioned! It's the small details like that that capture the same feeling I had when reading the original book by Austen. I can't wait for Caroline's story. 🤍
October 11, 2025
What a wonderful story. Loved the writing and the characters as well as the plot. The book is on the shorter side, but the author still brought about the forced proximity and enemies to lovers perfectly.
September 7, 2025
Journalist Lizzie Bennet moved back to Austen Heights when her dad became sick. Lizzy and her sisters are half-witch and half-fae, residents of the town tend to look down on them. When her mom becomes a suspect in a murder case, Lizzy is determined to clear her name. Unfortunately for her, this means that she has to work with Darcy, a complicated fae who keeps himself and his magic closed off to the world. Will Lizzy be able to solve the case and get her story before the killer strikes again?
Drake combines cozy mystery, romance and fantasy to weave a story that grabs the reader’s attention from page one. I enjoyed the character development and the plot twists throughout the book. There is great humor and banter between the main characters and their disdain towards one another slowly dissipates as they begin to know each other. I found this to be an intriguing read and think other readers would enjoy this book.
*I was gifted this book and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Drake combines cozy mystery, romance and fantasy to weave a story that grabs the reader’s attention from page one. I enjoyed the character development and the plot twists throughout the book. There is great humor and banter between the main characters and their disdain towards one another slowly dissipates as they begin to know each other. I found this to be an intriguing read and think other readers would enjoy this book.
*I was gifted this book and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 11, 2025
I got the chance to ARC read this book, and it was just fantastic. The story itself was addictive to the very end. I loved the relationship between Lizzy and Darcy. It was the perfect balance of push and pull.
I loved the fact that Lizzy was a journalist in the story, and that you get to follow along in being a little detective as you piece together the mystery within this book. It was super fun and cozy to read, and I loved the few little twists near the end.
If I had to name one con, it would only be the fact that it rushed a little near the end on wrapping up the mystery and who the “killer” was. I personally felt it could’ve gone on a few more chapters to balance out the discovery of the mystery the characters were unraveling, but other than that I loved this story.
I am super thankful to have gotten to ARC read this book, and I can’t wait to get into the other stories in this world soon!
I loved the fact that Lizzy was a journalist in the story, and that you get to follow along in being a little detective as you piece together the mystery within this book. It was super fun and cozy to read, and I loved the few little twists near the end.
If I had to name one con, it would only be the fact that it rushed a little near the end on wrapping up the mystery and who the “killer” was. I personally felt it could’ve gone on a few more chapters to balance out the discovery of the mystery the characters were unraveling, but other than that I loved this story.
I am super thankful to have gotten to ARC read this book, and I can’t wait to get into the other stories in this world soon!
October 12, 2025
What a fun and magical twist on a beloved classic! Laura M. Drake takes Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice and stirs in a dash of witchcraft, fae politics, and cozy mystery — and the result is absolutely delightful.
Lizzy, a half-witch, half-fae reporter, returns to her hometown of Austen Heights (a magical bubble hidden from the non-magical world) to help her family’s potion shop while her father is ill. What she doesn’t expect? To have a murder vision, run into a handsome fae named Darcy, and get magically stuck to him - leading to some hilarious fake-dating chaos.
Between the witty banter, enchanting worldbuilding, and clever mystery, this book was such an enjoyable read. It gave me cozy fantasy vibes with a sprinkle of romance and just enough intrigue to keep me hooked. The familiar Austen characters in this new setting made it feel both nostalgic and fresh.
Lizzy, a half-witch, half-fae reporter, returns to her hometown of Austen Heights (a magical bubble hidden from the non-magical world) to help her family’s potion shop while her father is ill. What she doesn’t expect? To have a murder vision, run into a handsome fae named Darcy, and get magically stuck to him - leading to some hilarious fake-dating chaos.
Between the witty banter, enchanting worldbuilding, and clever mystery, this book was such an enjoyable read. It gave me cozy fantasy vibes with a sprinkle of romance and just enough intrigue to keep me hooked. The familiar Austen characters in this new setting made it feel both nostalgic and fresh.
August 29, 2025
I loved this, I am a huge fan of P&P anyway, but this was a refreshing retelling bringing cosy crime into the mix, as the conflicted duo are forced together after a botched spell, and have to work together to catch a killer.
This is a world of magic, with witches, Fae, werewolves and vampires, but still the charming regency air, and all the favourite characters from the original. It had that angsty tension between Darcy and Lizzy, but made even better with her thinking he's the villainous murderer, and trying to get him to confess his secrets.
It had great humour, fun mystery, intrigue and suspense, and cosy autumn vibes.
It was a delight to read, with fun twists, and I cannot wait for more of this series.
This is a world of magic, with witches, Fae, werewolves and vampires, but still the charming regency air, and all the favourite characters from the original. It had that angsty tension between Darcy and Lizzy, but made even better with her thinking he's the villainous murderer, and trying to get him to confess his secrets.
It had great humour, fun mystery, intrigue and suspense, and cosy autumn vibes.
It was a delight to read, with fun twists, and I cannot wait for more of this series.
September 14, 2025
This is such a cozy fall story, just in time for the leaves to start falling in my real life. This story is loosely inspired by Pride and Prejudice and I think the author struck a really nice balance, paying small tributes to the original story without it feeling like duplicate telling (yes they get caught in the rain, no Lydia doesn’t have her whole side plot with Wickham). If you like some escapism cozy cottage romantasy with a side of detective work, this will likely be a pleasant read for you. Added bonus, while part of a series, it absolutely works as a stand alone.
Is this deep and moving prose? No. But it doesn’t pretend to me. I found this book to be exactly what it advertised and a nice break after some more emotionally taxing reads.
Is this deep and moving prose? No. But it doesn’t pretend to me. I found this book to be exactly what it advertised and a nice break after some more emotionally taxing reads.
September 5, 2025
This was an absolute 5-star read for me. The story felt cozy and comforting—like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket with a hot chocolate. I absolutely loved the main character and her charm, which made the story even more delightful to read.
I also enjoyed how the author wove magic and potions into the classic world of Pride and Prejudice without losing the heart and charm of Austen’s characters. It’s a familiar story, but with a fun and whimsical twist that made it feel fresh. I found myself smiling and kicking my feet in the air throughout and sinking into the cozy atmosphere.
I feel so privileged to be an ARC for this super cozy book. I cannot wait for the next ones
I also enjoyed how the author wove magic and potions into the classic world of Pride and Prejudice without losing the heart and charm of Austen’s characters. It’s a familiar story, but with a fun and whimsical twist that made it feel fresh. I found myself smiling and kicking my feet in the air throughout and sinking into the cozy atmosphere.
I feel so privileged to be an ARC for this super cozy book. I cannot wait for the next ones
September 11, 2025
ARC review:
Pride and Prejudice and Potions: Lizzy’s Story follows a journalist looking for her next big scoop. Lizzy is half-witch half-fae with the power of Portence (to see what was or what will be). When she has one of these visions foretelling of a murder in high society, she seizes her opportunity. This is a great modern whodunit story with classic characters and a magical twist. Perfect for the upcoming fall season! I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
Pride and Prejudice and Potions: Lizzy’s Story follows a journalist looking for her next big scoop. Lizzy is half-witch half-fae with the power of Portence (to see what was or what will be). When she has one of these visions foretelling of a murder in high society, she seizes her opportunity. This is a great modern whodunit story with classic characters and a magical twist. Perfect for the upcoming fall season! I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
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