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Witches of Olderea #2.5
Bennett Turns Into a Cat
This illustrated novella can be read after The Herbwitch Princess.
Beauty Without Brains: How Will Lady Narcissa Wear the Crown?
When the most notorious gossip columnist in Olderea releases a scathing article about her, Narcissa is desperate to upkeep her image of a diligent princess-to-be, even if it means moving to the palace and leaving her kittens behind. Working with Bennett on the upcoming Ambassador’s Ball should've been the perfect opportunity, but Cissa can’t help but notice that her fiancé is too occupied with royal duties to pay her much attention.
One night under mysterious circumstances, Bennett turns into a cat. Magic is afoot, and no one knows if it's from a friend or foe. Down in Witch Village, Cissa must brew an antidote and find the culprit before the Ambassador’s Ball. Will Bennett be able to turn back in time? And most importantly, will the couple manage to heal the rift growing between them?
Beauty Without Brains: How Will Lady Narcissa Wear the Crown?
When the most notorious gossip columnist in Olderea releases a scathing article about her, Narcissa is desperate to upkeep her image of a diligent princess-to-be, even if it means moving to the palace and leaving her kittens behind. Working with Bennett on the upcoming Ambassador’s Ball should've been the perfect opportunity, but Cissa can’t help but notice that her fiancé is too occupied with royal duties to pay her much attention.
One night under mysterious circumstances, Bennett turns into a cat. Magic is afoot, and no one knows if it's from a friend or foe. Down in Witch Village, Cissa must brew an antidote and find the culprit before the Ambassador’s Ball. Will Bennett be able to turn back in time? And most importantly, will the couple manage to heal the rift growing between them?
120 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2024
4 people are currently reading
1159 people want to read
About the author
Ireen Chau
5 books549 followersIreen Chau is a long time artist, writer, and above all, a lover of stories located in the Bay Area. When not reading, writing, or drawing, Ireen can be found browsing Pinterest for inspiration or watching YouTube commentary videos.
Visit her Instagram @theherbwitchsapprentice for news about future projects!
Visit her Instagram @theherbwitchsapprentice for news about future projects!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
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September 9, 2024Essentially a self-indulgent fight-and-make-up story with cozy illustrations, angst, and a ridiculous premise!
March 17, 2024
somebody wanna tell me how Ireen made me CRY reading a story that took me less than 30 minutes to read 😭😭
October 10, 2024
This is adorable, fantastic, give me 14 of 'em right now.
August 18, 2024
I enjoyed this one so much! Short, sweet, and full of cats!
April 16, 2024
Just sooooooooo adorable ❤️
March 20, 2024
*4.5 Stars*
Summary: A super cute addition to the world that touches on important character arcs after the “happily ever after!”
Overall, I really, really enjoyed reading this omg — it was super cute and definitely lived up to the cozy fantasy and hijinks that I love from the main novels. I also thought this explored some great points that are usually glossed over in these types of stories. More about what I did and didn’t like below!
Things I Liked:
- The Not-So Happily Ever After: I loved that things weren’t just tied off in a perfect bow for these two characters, in terms of their romance but also their personal growth. It shows that life can always be an uphill battle, but of course love prevails :) It made sense that Bennett would close off and that Narcissa would keep doubting herself, so I thought that was really well written! I also love that Narcissa didn’t let him get off quite so easily (that scene in the bed and then the horse — oof)
- Bennett: This guy had me side-eyeing him from the very beginning XD So kudos to making me feel for Narcissa so instantly lol. I also loved the scene with jealous Cat-Bennett, because who doesn’t love an angry feline hissing at a boy flirting with his fiancé?
- The Cat Room. Need I say anything more?
Things I Didn’t Like:
- My main and really only complaint was that I wanted more Bennett as a cat! This is a very short story so I understand in terms of pacing why things played out the way they did, but I would’ve just loved to see Cat-Bennett wreak havoc a bit more XD I also saw who transformed him coming from a mile away, but that wasn’t really the focus of this story so that was fine
It very much felt like a twenty minute episode with its tiny plot twist and little bow at the end, I loved it! This was really such a wholesome read, and I had a sharp eye on those potential foreshadowing bits for book 3 👀
Summary: A super cute addition to the world that touches on important character arcs after the “happily ever after!”
Overall, I really, really enjoyed reading this omg — it was super cute and definitely lived up to the cozy fantasy and hijinks that I love from the main novels. I also thought this explored some great points that are usually glossed over in these types of stories. More about what I did and didn’t like below!
Things I Liked:
- The Not-So Happily Ever After: I loved that things weren’t just tied off in a perfect bow for these two characters, in terms of their romance but also their personal growth. It shows that life can always be an uphill battle, but of course love prevails :) It made sense that Bennett would close off and that Narcissa would keep doubting herself, so I thought that was really well written! I also love that Narcissa didn’t let him get off quite so easily (that scene in the bed and then the horse — oof)
- Bennett: This guy had me side-eyeing him from the very beginning XD So kudos to making me feel for Narcissa so instantly lol. I also loved the scene with jealous Cat-Bennett, because who doesn’t love an angry feline hissing at a boy flirting with his fiancé?
- The Cat Room. Need I say anything more?
Things I Didn’t Like:
- My main and really only complaint was that I wanted more Bennett as a cat! This is a very short story so I understand in terms of pacing why things played out the way they did, but I would’ve just loved to see Cat-Bennett wreak havoc a bit more XD I also saw who transformed him coming from a mile away, but that wasn’t really the focus of this story so that was fine
It very much felt like a twenty minute episode with its tiny plot twist and little bow at the end, I loved it! This was really such a wholesome read, and I had a sharp eye on those potential foreshadowing bits for book 3 👀
April 22, 2025
3,5 * — Super sweet and heartwarming! 🥰 Need Amarante and Ash’s short story asap 🙂↕️
June 23, 2024
When I say this book is gorgeous from top to bottom I mean it. Not only is the characters, environment, and story telling the most engaged I have ever felt while reading a book, but the illustrations and formatting of the entire thing is a dream! I was one of the lucky people to get the Kickstarter book, so mine came with extra goodies including stickers/ bookmarks/ etc. The continuation of Cissa and Bennett made me happy to begin with but this somehow exceeded my expectations. I literally cannot and will not shut up about Ireen Chau and her amazing work. Whether she decides to be an author/ illustrator for the rest of her life (that’s my hope) or decides her path lies in a different place I am so happy to see where she goes. She is a creative light in a dark world and I’m so happy to know of her.
May 11, 2025
5 stars.
i have to admit, normally i don't like reading novellas because they're far too short for me to form an opinion on them. but this one actually made me sob by the end. and it's about a prince who turns into a cat.
you can tell how much thought and care the author has put into her characters, because this was less than 150 pages and i ended up crying in bed about a fictional couple. ireen chau focuses on the characters as much as the plot, intricately forming a relationship between protagonist and the reader. i could feel everything that narcissa was feeling (but maybe that's just because i relate to her a bit too much! hmm...) and empathized with her throughout her internal struggles. don't even get me started on bennett. him calling her "my princess" sent me into cardiac arrest.
in short, we get to see a little bit more of narcissa and bennett after the events of the herbwitch princess, specifically delving into their relationship and insecurities, and how they resolve them. this was so sweet, so caring, and so very full of love.
i have to admit, normally i don't like reading novellas because they're far too short for me to form an opinion on them. but this one actually made me sob by the end. and it's about a prince who turns into a cat.
you can tell how much thought and care the author has put into her characters, because this was less than 150 pages and i ended up crying in bed about a fictional couple. ireen chau focuses on the characters as much as the plot, intricately forming a relationship between protagonist and the reader. i could feel everything that narcissa was feeling (but maybe that's just because i relate to her a bit too much! hmm...) and empathized with her throughout her internal struggles. don't even get me started on bennett. him calling her "my princess" sent me into cardiac arrest.
in short, we get to see a little bit more of narcissa and bennett after the events of the herbwitch princess, specifically delving into their relationship and insecurities, and how they resolve them. this was so sweet, so caring, and so very full of love.
June 18, 2024
Just a delight! I’ve loved this series so far and this beautiful, little novella was charming and cozy, everything I had hoped it would be. It also managed to impress me again with how well Ireen Chau writes human emotions. While it is a light read Narcissa does feel a lot of angst for much of the book and I felt with her. I never fail to be impressed by this author and illustrator.
Side note, if she ever offers deluxe editions of any of her books via a Kickstarter in the future it is 1000% worth it. The version I received of this book is gorgeous and well worth the wait!
Side note, if she ever offers deluxe editions of any of her books via a Kickstarter in the future it is 1000% worth it. The version I received of this book is gorgeous and well worth the wait!
November 13, 2025
this was so cuteee
Irene Chau is def one of my comfort authors and I can’t wait to read A Charmwitch Seamstress. I like how this novella touched on how marriage doesn’t solve all problems and it still takes work and how you can love someone and still be mad at them. Anyway this was so cutie patootie and you guys should read it
Irene Chau is def one of my comfort authors and I can’t wait to read A Charmwitch Seamstress. I like how this novella touched on how marriage doesn’t solve all problems and it still takes work and how you can love someone and still be mad at them. Anyway this was so cutie patootie and you guys should read it
March 17, 2024
BTIAC is a cute and cozy novella that takes place after The Herbwitch Princess. It was nice revisiting the characters and seeing Bennett and Narcissa's relationship progress with Cissa learning to open up and rely on others while Bennett becomes more expressive.
I do wish it could have been longer since their story will most likely end here, but hopefully they'll make a cameo in future novellas.
Thank you to the author for providing an arc!
I do wish it could have been longer since their story will most likely end here, but hopefully they'll make a cameo in future novellas.
Thank you to the author for providing an arc!
March 17, 2024
Loved this novella! Super cute and cozy, it was a lovely quick afternoon read. I loved this extra glimpse into Bennett and Cissa’s relationship. It definitely left me wanting more and made me excited to read the upcoming third book in the series
December 16, 2023
Beta read BTIAC and I loved it! Such a cute cozy story!
April 11, 2024
I was happy to read about Narcissa and Bennet again. They’re my favorite!
Also, this book is BEAUTIFUL!
Also, this book is BEAUTIFUL!
April 25, 2024
What a treat. I loved getting to see more of Narcissa and Bennett! I can’t get enough of this series. The colorful illustrations made the story even better. Ireen’s art is unmatched.
May 3, 2024
A cute side story to the series with more from our favorite couple.
May 18, 2024
I didn't know what to expect from this novella, but I know it delivered on all fronts.
.
Basically a "what happens after happily ever after" tale, with magic and cats.
.
Basically a "what happens after happily ever after" tale, with magic and cats.
July 13, 2024
A sweet little novella to tide one over until the 3rd book is ready! It I'd related to Book 2 in the series so dont accidently spoil yourself!
December 30, 2024
4.5 stars. Ireen’s books are always a joy to read 😌.
June 30, 2025
Quickest read ever because I simply could not put it down and read it in one go. I love this author and her universe.
July 4, 2025
If you like cats, magic, and need to learn how to manage work-life balance, this is it.
July 6, 2024
My babies. 😍😍 I'll be buying the illustrated version soon.
October 31, 2024
Super fun and cute novella.
March 19, 2024
@librisinetenebris on Instagram
**Thank you to Ireen Chau for the eARC**
When Miss Scarlett tarnishes her reputation, Narcissa moves to the palace to uphold her image as a princess-to-be. As she notices Bennett growing more distant, preoccupied with his royal duties, she finds him mysteriously transformed into a cat. While they search for an antidote before the ball, the couple must also mend their strained relationship.
BTIAC is a sweet novella that follows Narcissa and Bennett after the events of The Herbwitch Princess (Witches of Olderea #2). I was a beta reader for this book and reading it again made me remember how much I missed Cissa and Bennett.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, charming story with cats, potion making and two anxiety-ridden royals in love, give BTIAC a try! (After you’ve read The Herbwitch Princess, of course)
P.S.: I don’t mean to brag, but my name is in the acknowledgments!
**Thank you to Ireen Chau for the eARC**
When Miss Scarlett tarnishes her reputation, Narcissa moves to the palace to uphold her image as a princess-to-be. As she notices Bennett growing more distant, preoccupied with his royal duties, she finds him mysteriously transformed into a cat. While they search for an antidote before the ball, the couple must also mend their strained relationship.
BTIAC is a sweet novella that follows Narcissa and Bennett after the events of The Herbwitch Princess (Witches of Olderea #2). I was a beta reader for this book and reading it again made me remember how much I missed Cissa and Bennett.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced, charming story with cats, potion making and two anxiety-ridden royals in love, give BTIAC a try! (After you’ve read The Herbwitch Princess, of course)
P.S.: I don’t mean to brag, but my name is in the acknowledgments!
February 9, 2024
I beta read BTIAC in September and I freaking loved it. Ireen is so talented and had me kicking my little feet. This book is so full of fun, fluff, and heart. I can't wait to have a hard copy in my hands!!
April 16, 2024
Very cute story! It was fun to see more of Narcissa and Bennett. As always, the art was gorgeous, especially because all of the illustrations were in color!
May 28, 2024
this was so cute 😭💞
June 20, 2025
🌟 4 stars!
A very fast, cozy and clean read that i would definitely recommend to people who read smut 24/7 ☺️ but jokes aside, this book was simple to read and made me curious about her other books! It was really well written, albeit being a little predictable.
What I liked:
The mention of cats is so so cute, and the author’s illustration is as remarkable as her writing! I also really liked the fact that she also included tiny jealousy scenes which really added a little bit of tension to their relationship, which was so satisfying to read!
What I didn’t like:
About the jealous scenes, there just wasn’t really enough of it I feel? I mean it came up, and then dissolved within a minute. The scene ended really quickly & I was pretty disappointed. There’s not enough tension between the couple shown in this novella. The novella felt a little bit kiddish, like it definitely suits 13 year olds which kinda disappointed me as I prefer books that are more young ADULT ykwim?
But anyways, this book wasn’t perfect but I’m pretty sure it’s meant to be a short one, so I don’t blame the author for the shorter scenes :) Reading this novella really piqued my interest for the novel that links to this (the herbwitch princess), so I am DEFINITELY ordering the illustrated novel soon!!
A very fast, cozy and clean read that i would definitely recommend to people who read smut 24/7 ☺️ but jokes aside, this book was simple to read and made me curious about her other books! It was really well written, albeit being a little predictable.
What I liked:
The mention of cats is so so cute, and the author’s illustration is as remarkable as her writing! I also really liked the fact that she also included tiny jealousy scenes which really added a little bit of tension to their relationship, which was so satisfying to read!
What I didn’t like:
About the jealous scenes, there just wasn’t really enough of it I feel? I mean it came up, and then dissolved within a minute. The scene ended really quickly & I was pretty disappointed. There’s not enough tension between the couple shown in this novella. The novella felt a little bit kiddish, like it definitely suits 13 year olds which kinda disappointed me as I prefer books that are more young ADULT ykwim?
But anyways, this book wasn’t perfect but I’m pretty sure it’s meant to be a short one, so I don’t blame the author for the shorter scenes :) Reading this novella really piqued my interest for the novel that links to this (the herbwitch princess), so I am DEFINITELY ordering the illustrated novel soon!!
March 31, 2024
First off, thank you Ireen Chau for sending me this ARC! I'm really enjoying seeing the Witches of Olderea franchise grow.
Between the first two books, The Herbwitch Princess has definitely been my favorite, so it was nice to see more of Cissa and Bennett. I particularly liked further seeing Cissa's vulnerable side. I found it to be relatable at times, if for nothing more than her missing her cat.
As for Bennett, he's as awkward as ever, and I wish we could know more of what goes on in his head in real-time. I think the closest we got to that was seeing him as a cat. Being in that form betrayed his true feelings in a funny way, so, it would've been nice to spend a little more time with feline Bennett.
Other than that, I have no complaints. The best part of the whole story was of course seeing the couple's relationship deepen. Which is why I'm so excited to know that Ash and Amarante are also getting their own novella!
4 stars to another installment of this cozy series.
Between the first two books, The Herbwitch Princess has definitely been my favorite, so it was nice to see more of Cissa and Bennett. I particularly liked further seeing Cissa's vulnerable side. I found it to be relatable at times, if for nothing more than her missing her cat.
As for Bennett, he's as awkward as ever, and I wish we could know more of what goes on in his head in real-time. I think the closest we got to that was seeing him as a cat. Being in that form betrayed his true feelings in a funny way, so, it would've been nice to spend a little more time with feline Bennett.
Other than that, I have no complaints. The best part of the whole story was of course seeing the couple's relationship deepen. Which is why I'm so excited to know that Ash and Amarante are also getting their own novella!
4 stars to another installment of this cozy series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews