Being a Nix is bad enough, what with water pollution and the world's aversion to river demons, but when the River Arun's Goddess turns matchmaker, nothing will be the same again.
Chlo
I've spent my life fitting in, a tailor who can't touch iron or steel, a Nix who avoids the river she was born to swim in. Making clothes instead of dragging people to the deep. But the river goddess Trisantona thinks I need love in my life, thinks it'll be the one thing that will bring me back to her river. And she's picked Violet, the one woman I can't resist...
Welcome to the Godstouched Universe, where the Gods interfere in the lives of mortals, magic leaks back into our world, and love conquers all.
Ali Williams' inner romance reader is never quite satisfied, which is why she oscillates between writing romance, editing romance, and studying it as part of her PhD.
She can be found at the foot of the South Downs in the UK, either nerding out over local mythologies or drinking cocktails on the beach.
She believes with all of her bifurious heart that writing romance is an act of rebellion and that academia will be so much better when studying diverse HEAs is naturally part of the curriculum.
'Nix and Tell' is a fun, witty, quick read in a cosy fantasy setting with some spicy scenes.
The setting of this novella is wonderfully cosy, taking place in a small village on the river Arun complete with a local pub, witchy shop and secret Fae creatures. As you would expect for a novella, the world building is descriptive yet brief.
This story follow Chlo and Vi, two women with an established friendship and barely concealed crush on eash other. As the story progresses, you get to see the softer side of the grumpy, masc tailor Chlo, and a more determined side to Vi, instead of the cute girl next door vibe she gives off in the beginning of the book. I would say the change in their personalities is pretty sudden, I would have preferred a slightly longer book to show their development and reveals more naturally.
There are two spicy scenes, and to me they feel rushed. I understand it is a novella but I think the scenes are quite brief and as a result I struggled to connect with the characters during them. I felt very much like a passenger which is a pity as I really enjoyed the characters and their blossoming relationship.
I really do love the respect that Vi and Chlo have for each other, setting up healthy boundaries, mature discussions and check-ins during their sex scenes. I love how normalised it is.
One of my favourite quotes from the book is "... no white sage or palo santo, I run an ethical, non-First Nations exploitative shop, thank you very much." And how iconic. I absolutely love an author who is so aware, they don't culturally appropriate in their story.
I think this is a great palate cleanser. The story is light, sweet and fluffy, like some warm pancakes on a rainy morning. I would recommend to anyone looking for something fun and quick to break up some heavier or serious reads.
Nix and Tell by Ali Williams is a quick, yet very cozy paranormal sapphic romance full of sweetness, magic, and kink. I’ve rated it 3.5 stars, but rounded down for a couple of reasons we’ll get into later in the review.
This book is perfect for a reader looking for a very quick and simple sapphic romance. The prose is simple and clean, the worldbuilding is easy to understand, and overall, it focuses on a previously developed friendship, so there is a built-in ease between the characters. The representation of a kinky sexual relationship was very well done, and I appreciated the conversations the main leads had before engaging in their scene. I also loved that we had a service top butch sub and a bossy bottom domme femme. One of the main leads also has on-page autism, which was treated excellently.
The story follows Chlo, a queer tailor who lives in a quaint British town and is secretly a nixie. Her best friend is Violet, a pagan human witch who owns a crystal witchy shop next to hers. They’re very sweet, but because nixies drown humans as a sacrifice to their Goddess, Chlo doesn’t act on her feelings for Violet. However, when Chlo’s Goddess compels her to have sex with Violet as an offering, they’re forced to confront their feelings, and Violet must grapple with the new magical world that her eyes have been opened to.
In terms of positives, I did really enjoy this book on a surface level. It was quick, easy, and very fluffy, which is exactly what I was looking for after suffering through a different book. The boundaries and expectations of what the characters wanted in a sexual relationship were communicated very clearly and elegantly, which I appreciated. There wasn’t any true conflict within their relationship, and their story is wrapped up very neatly in a bow. The book accomplishes what it wants, and it gave me the palette cleanse I desperately needed, so for that I appreciate it.
However, because I’m me and I can’t turn off my brain while reading, I do have a few spoilery qualms, so if stop reading now if you’re uninterested.
Firstly, I believe this book is far too short. (Yes, I know, that’s like half the point.) I think it is possible to tell a sweet and fulfilling story with few words, and unfortunately, I do think this book is just slightly underbaked for me to fully love it. Both of the characters have very similar voices in their respective point-of-views and I struggled to remember who was who, which made it a little disorientating. I think the prose was not strong enough and could’ve been polished to be intricate and detailed, and let us get to know the characters beyond their archetypes as grumpy and sunshine. I think with more time to let their relationship breathe and their individual characteristics fleshed out more, I would’ve felt more connected to them. Or the book should’ve been written in third person to help differentiate between the characters.
I think the choreography of the scenes was also muddled and confused, especially in the sex scenes. While I like the foundation of the scenes, they don’t luxuriate in the feelings, in the emotional connection, and rather just go through the motions of what is happening. We get told that they like each other a lot, but I don’t feel it necessarily. I think this comes back to the sparse nature of the prose. It isn’t bad and it didn’t make me cringe, but I often had to reread paragraphs to try to imagine where hands and mouths, and bodies were. It was a bit nebulous in the first sex scene. The second was much better, but it was also less involved. The first sex scene has rope play, and I wanted more from it. The second takes place in the river and is a fisting scene, so it isn’t as complex in terms of trying to put the reader in the water with the characters.
In terms of conflict, I feel like there was an opportunity for conflict, and unfortunately, it was backed off from. It was entered too late into the book to really feel fulfilling. Violet comes from an abusive household and also had an abusive ex, one who yelled at her, and so yelling makes her frightened and have a triggered response. Early in the book (and in this scene), Chlo talks about her and most nixies having a temper. I wish this could’ve appeared on page earlier, and maybe could’ve been something they had to work through. It would’ve been that extra depth I wanted between the characters. Chlo is stressed for a lot of the book, both with trying to balance the Goddess breathing down her neck and also the fact that her nixie community is aware that Violet knows about them. I think having a scene where they have to work through a struggle like this. Maybe Chlo does yell at Violet, and she shuts down? A conversation and a grand gesture later, and they’re right as rain? Something to show their flaws, show that they are affected by the world around them.
In terms of magic, I think it was done decently. The world of the nixies is slowly revealed over time, and as the politics of the world start to appear, it definitely becomes more interesting as it unfolds. The main political problem is that many of the nixes don’t agree with a mortal/nix pairing, and this was a subtle threat to the main couple that never materialized. Some of the nixies come into Chlo’s shop and threaten her, but she diffuses the threat with ease. Violet later sees one of those nixies in the Goddess’s temple and she learns more about their history. It’s quite a fascinating bit of lore and definitely a conflict that fascinated me personally. But we don’t go anywhere with it, just simply leaves it as something Violet witnesses and then explains some of the town lore.
And this is a small gripe, but several of the stores are also planning a little festival, and then we don’t even get to see the festival! I assume it will be the climax or part of one of the other books in the series, but I was slightly disappointed.
Which leads me to think that ultimately this book is more set up for the other two couples in the series than being a book that stands well on its own. Hazel and Kit are the main characters' friends and their backstories are so much more fascinating than either Chlo or Violet have. So, I’ll be reading their books when they come out at the end of this month and in May.
So, I like this book, but it falls a little flat for me if I think about it for more than five seconds. I still think it’s absolutely worth the read if you’re looking for a fluffy, low-stakes, sweet and kinky sapphic paranormal romance.
Book One in the Arun Nixes Series by Ali Williams: Nix and Tell I recently finished this short, spicy sapphic paranormal romance set in the super cute and intriguing Godstouched Universe, and honestly? I had a good time. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick read that’s sweet, sexy, and sprinkled with divine drama and delicious kink. Meet Chlo — a nix (water demon) who’s basically a talented tailor but is also like, firmly not into water or her river, odd? yes. She’s living that quiet life working her craft in a cozy British town, basically avoiding her true nature. Enter Violet, her super bubbly best friend, a witch who runs a crystal and healing shop next door, Spellbound. Sparks fly from the jump, but with a goddess meddling from above (because of course she does), suddenly the universe is pushing Chlo to explore love and drown her in it—literally.
I loved how this book just pops with charm and a strong sense of cozy worldbuilding. The magic feels natural, and the divine politics add some nice tension without making it overwhelming. Plus, the town festival vibe? Loved all the small-town feels. Williams truly does a good job balancing romance, magic, and divine shenanigans without overloading you.
And the chemistry? Chef’s kiss. Chlo and Violet’s connection is just so good. The spice is there but it’s also really tender — you can tell they genuinely care about each other. I really appreciated how clear and thoughtful their boundaries were, especially with how some of the sex scenes include kink (rope play, fisting, etc.), and it’s done with care and respect. Also, the characters’ dynamics—like a service top with a submissive streak and a bossy domme—are chef’s kiss again, super diverse and refreshing.
Now, full transparency: since this is a novella, it’s kinda on the shorter side, which means some of the inner struggles and world-expanding stuff feel like they could’ve been fleshed out a bit more. But honestly? That didn’t ruin my enjoyment. The prose is simple and clean—maybe a little too sparse at times—but it’s enough to keep you hooked. The scenes, especially in the water, could’ve been more detailed, but they hit the right emotional beats for what this story aims to be. So if you’re after a quick, fun, and totally smokin’ sapphic read with divine vibes and a sprinkle of magic, I’d say go for it. It’s a feel-good, sexy palate cleanser, and I’m excited to see what Williams does with the other couples in this series.
TL;DR: Cute town, divine matchmaking, sizzling chemistry, and a ton of queer magic. Would totally recommend for a little escape and some spicy feels. Can’t wait for what’s next!
Nix and Tell is a deliciously enchanting dive into the Godstouched Universe, weaving fae magic, divine meddling, and a sizzling sapphic romance into an irresistible tale. Chloe (Chlo), a Nix with a complicated relationship with both her nature and her river, finds herself at the mercy of the matchmaking whims of the River Arun’s goddess. And who does fate throw into her path? Violet—irresistible, effervescent, and exactly the kind of woman who could tempt Chlo back to the water she’s been avoiding.
The chemistry between Chlo and Violet is steamy, with a wonderful balance of tenderness and passion. Their dynamic feels fresh and deeply satisfying, especially with Chlo as a service top with a submissive streak—something not often explored but executed beautifully here. The way Violet understands and nurtures Chlo’s needs makes their connection all the more compelling, both emotionally and physically. The inclusion of clear discussions around boundaries was also a highlight, ensuring that the steamy scenes felt not just sensual but deeply intimate and respectful.
Beyond the romance, the world-building shines. This new corner of the Godstouched Universe is rich with magic, lore, and divine interference, making for an exciting expansion of an already beloved setting. The book also does a great job introducing the characters who will take center stage in the next installments, leaving plenty to anticipate.
While the romance and world-building were excellent, there were moments where I wished for a bit more depth in certain aspects of Chlo’s internal struggles or her relationship with her Nix nature. However, this didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
If you’re looking for a sapphic fae romance with heart, heat, and a touch of divine matchmaking, Nix and Tell delivers beautifully. I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series!
✨ Fantasy Romance ✨ Dual POV ✨ 3.5/5 Spice ✨ River Demon/Mortal ✨ Masc/Fem ✨ Autistic FMC
(Micro-Tropes after review)
Content Warnings at the bottom
Nix and Tell is the first installment of the Godstouched Universe. This novella was short, sweet, and spicy. It was such a fun read.
Chlo is a Nix (aka river demon). She's also a tailor, and despite being a river demon she doesn't have much fondness for water. She prefers plants (and by extension plant-based fabrics). Violet is Chlo's mortal, witchy friend who runs a neighboring shop. They have undeniable chemistry beneath their friendship which catches the attention of none other than the River Goddess herself.
Chlo and Vi's chemistry is off the charts. I appreciated the discussions regarding boundaries since this story does involve k*nk scenes. They are also incredibly sweet together, and Violet is super bubbly and fun! This book also introduces the reader to the characters that will be featured in the next two books.
I recommend Nix and Tell if you're look for a short, spicy, sapphic fantasy read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC. This review is being left voluntarily and contains only my honest opinion.
Micro-tropes:
✨ Subby Masc ✨ Rope Play ✨ Protective FMC ✨ S*x Magic ✨ S*x in a River ✨ F*sting
Content Warnings (beware potential spoilers) this list may not be complete alcohol/mention of alcoholic family member, drowning, death of a child (past), homophobia/slurs
I knew I would love this book and the rest of the series as soon as it was announced, what I didn’t expect was my connection to character Vi, I am so grateful for basically an exact copy of me to be in a book I love so much. I loved Chlo and Vi from the very first page, their relationship even as friends at the beginning was beautiful, so caring and loving, and it turned romantic so smoothly and naturally, even if encouraged by a goddess. I loved Chlo’s queer tailor store, the flags in the window and being an obvious safe space for people was so amazing, I have never thought about how many queer people would need a tailor store before. Vi will always be so special to me, she is a part of me now and will be forever, I feel so connected to her. I loved all of her moments when she stood up for Chlo and helped her, reassured her, asked her what was wrong. Vi is literally such a beautiful character, but not to be underestimated either, she’s so strong, but nobody sees it. The storyline was also amazing obviously, the writing was perfect, the incorporation of the future books characters was perfect, just the perfect amount to get excited about their books while also getting to know enough about their characters to make them solid characters in this book too. This book is short, but it doesn’t feel it, so much happens but it doesn’t feel rushed at all, everything is smooth and perfectly paced. Thank you so much for this book, I loved it so much and it is so special to me, I’m incredibly grateful for it!
First story of the Nix or River Demons! I loved it! I’m so excited to read the next two as well! We were introduced to all the MCs for each book. The bit of world building is interesting. I’m already a fan of the Godstouched Universe so I couldn’t wait for more!
Chlo is our first Nix and she’s unlike most as she’s in tune with plants rather than water. She’s a tailor using only those fibers to make the perfect fit for their community. She is the grump in the grumpy/sunshine friendship with Violet. Violet is human and may have more magic in her then Chlo thought and she also refuses to have Chlo be influenced if they decide to move their relationship into a romantic one. Violet walks right up to the River Goddess! Gaining favor doesn’t necessarily mean acceptance. But once the door of more has opened…Chlo and Violet are quite the pair! They may just be the perfect match! Their story is interesting, their characters are open, honest and entertaining. The spice is well done and flows with their characters (very well!) as well as with the story.
Recommend! I’m looking forward to the next two Nix books!
4 stars. I'm a fan of Williams writing style. It's so addictive and fast paced. This book was short but so adorable and sexy. I loved the characters. Chlo is an adorable grump and Violet is adorable with a fierce protective and dominant streak. The dynamics between them was great and different. Chlo is a service top (!!!!!!) with a submissive side (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and Violet is such a great partner and really knew what she needed. They had wonderful chemistry and the sex scenes felt so tender. I thoroughly enjoyed this. Really cool world building, it's set within the 'Godstouched' universe and I love that series so I'm glad we've got this new spin off. You don't have to read that series first to enjoy this but I would recommend it just because they're great reads. I'm so excited for book two!
This is a delightful little fantasy based around the river Arun. River Nix, Chlo has had a crush on Vi since they met. The trouble is, she’s mortal. Vi (Violet) practices small spells and has had an unbelievable desire to be with Chlo from their first interaction.
A sad goddesses’ compulsion forces them to confront their feelings for each other and opens up Vi’s eyes to the magic she’s surrounded by. Can they find their way together?
This was so cute, the fantasy world building easy to fall into that these women were incredibly real. The magic, the Nix’s and he goddess were all unique takes on a friends to lovers romance.
With the spice, spicing, it was a cute introduction to Ali William’s writing. I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
A fae river demon and a witchy mortal are pushed together by a goddess in this sapphic treat.
I really enjoyed the masc sub representation, and the craft elements that were blended throughout the book. There were a lot of moments where I felt seen, and some where I thought about how important they were for being added so other queer and kinky people would feel seen.
This book is short and sweet. Just go read it immediately—it’s quick!
This was my first Alli Williams book but I will be back for more.
Medium burn with rope, biting, marking, and strap.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️ POV: Dual First Present
We were lucky enough to interview author Ali Williams for Episode Nine, Season Eight of the SFFRomCast, about Nix and Tell, her latest release! You can check out our discussion with her via the links below.
Nix and Tell is a spicy fantasy romance novella, set in a gorgeously magical and heart-warmingly supportive small town community!
I absolutely love Ellie’s books, I learn stuff and my AUDHD brain loves that, but she writes characters that just pull you in and makes you love them and want to have them as your friend. The spicy scenes are written so well and you definitely see her love of the female form come through I might just see my curves in a different light now.
I hope the goddess gets a story as well she needs love
I really enjoyed the author's writing style—concise yet impactful, with no unnecessary repetition. The way she crafted this story and developed each character was truly special. Despite being a short read, the plot was clear and engaging. I noticed there are two more books in the series, and I assume they expand further on this intriguing world. Highly recommend!
3.5 stars - A quick paranormal novella with an interesting premise - but it felt a little preachy in parts and had some weird tense changes that kept distracting me.