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Witch's Brew
Summer in Saratoga. What should be the perfect time for business is quickly becoming hell for Nyx, owner of the supernatural emporium, “Witch’s Brew.” Her one-woman show is becoming an increasingly impossible task and the only help she can seem to get is from a persistent yet charming skeptic of the mystic arts.
On the side and after hours, Nyx deals with the supernatural and spiritual needs of her clients. It’s a job like any other until one girl enters her life with an unreadable spirit clinging to her, and a connection to Nyx’s own past.
Nyx’s professional and private life quickly become intertwined, in this journey of romance, spirituality, and reconciliation.
On the side and after hours, Nyx deals with the supernatural and spiritual needs of her clients. It’s a job like any other until one girl enters her life with an unreadable spirit clinging to her, and a connection to Nyx’s own past.
Nyx’s professional and private life quickly become intertwined, in this journey of romance, spirituality, and reconciliation.
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Published September 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
October 10, 2025
Unlike other books I've read with a unique main character I grew to love.
Nyx, while abrasive and at times self-centered, goes through a journey of opening herself up to others, even if she doesn't realize that's what happening. She has a dark past and through the help of her shop's newest employee, she manages to confront the parts of herself still struggling with her pain. I enjoyed seeing her character arc, even if at times, the way Nyx acted made me angry or frustrated. I think that is a testament to Hayes' writing abilities as she really evokes a lot of emotions through her work. I also loved Willow the cat, lol.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book is that it felt very human. These are not perfect characters who act in socially acceptable ways, but they are very real. I think what captured me about Nyx, even though she is not like other FMCs I've read, is that she feels like the actual girl running the witchy shop next to my favorite bookstore and I appreciate the author's efforts to make her a complex person.
I do want to warn there's also mention of Christianity that ties into the plot of the book so readers with religious trauma should approach with caution.
Nyx, while abrasive and at times self-centered, goes through a journey of opening herself up to others, even if she doesn't realize that's what happening. She has a dark past and through the help of her shop's newest employee, she manages to confront the parts of herself still struggling with her pain. I enjoyed seeing her character arc, even if at times, the way Nyx acted made me angry or frustrated. I think that is a testament to Hayes' writing abilities as she really evokes a lot of emotions through her work. I also loved Willow the cat, lol.
The thing I enjoyed most about this book is that it felt very human. These are not perfect characters who act in socially acceptable ways, but they are very real. I think what captured me about Nyx, even though she is not like other FMCs I've read, is that she feels like the actual girl running the witchy shop next to my favorite bookstore and I appreciate the author's efforts to make her a complex person.
I do want to warn there's also mention of Christianity that ties into the plot of the book so readers with religious trauma should approach with caution.
July 26, 2025
Witch’s Brew by Ella Hayes is the perfect cozy read going into Fall. This was a fun contemporary read centered around Nyx, an oddity store owner by day, and spiritual middle-man by night. Throughout the story we see the difficulties of business, spiritual turmoil, and a dash of romance. I enjoyed the element of magic added in creating captivating twists and turns.
The style and flow of this story suits the author well, I look forward to seeing what else she publishes in the future.
If you’re looking for a charming read with paranormal components and a dash of spice, check out Witch’s Brew.
The style and flow of this story suits the author well, I look forward to seeing what else she publishes in the future.
If you’re looking for a charming read with paranormal components and a dash of spice, check out Witch’s Brew.
July 25, 2025
So I loved Bookends- but this one BLEW IT OUT OF THE WATER!
I’ve loved Nyx since I met her in the first book but now I am certain she was meant to be my real life bestie!
Witch’s Brew follows Nyx- a witch who own her very own witch shop on Phila Street! While her store is soaring, her love life cannot say the same.
A new employee, a dangerous book and old enemies all mix together to make a story that will suck you in and completely engulf you! And did I mention there’s spice?! I mean like GOOD spice 😍 oh man! There is no part of this story I didn’t love! I was so sad for it to end! This is definitely one I wish I could read for the first time again!
I’ve loved Nyx since I met her in the first book but now I am certain she was meant to be my real life bestie!
Witch’s Brew follows Nyx- a witch who own her very own witch shop on Phila Street! While her store is soaring, her love life cannot say the same.
A new employee, a dangerous book and old enemies all mix together to make a story that will suck you in and completely engulf you! And did I mention there’s spice?! I mean like GOOD spice 😍 oh man! There is no part of this story I didn’t love! I was so sad for it to end! This is definitely one I wish I could read for the first time again!
July 20, 2025
A rich blend of cozy, steamy, paranormal romance with intrigue and characters that keep you guessing. As Nyx might say, keep writing these stories, Ella Hayes, darling!
June 30, 2025
Where To Read: available September 2, 2025; pre-order your copy here: https://amzn.to/4kegReo
RAVING REVIEW: Ella M. Hayes doesn’t shy away from the messier parts of life. In WITCH'S BREW, she gives us a heroine who isn’t perfect, polished, or particularly patient—but she’s magnetic, independent, and human in all the best and worst ways. Set in upstate New York, the story leans into its witchy aesthetic while grounding its magic in real emotion: power, validation, escape, connection.
Nyx, the story’s unapologetically complicated protagonist, runs a metaphysical shop called Witch’s Brew. She reads tarot, brews custom teas, and offers a touch of spellcraft—for a price. She’s sharp, tired, sexy, and entirely self-aware, juggling a toxic on-again/off-again boyfriend, Damien, a town full of tourists who treat witchcraft like cosplay, and an undercurrent of something far more intimate: the desire to be seen for who she is.
What makes the writing stand out isn’t the supernatural, though there’s plenty of charm in that—it’s how Hayes captures emotional contradictions in her characters. Nyx is a woman who commands attention but hides away when someone sees too much. She claims to thrive alone, but lights up at the possibility of training someone like Zoe, who steps into her store as a skeptic and walks out as a potential apprentice.
Hayes avoids flashy fantasy tropes in favor of spells rooted in herbalism, intention, and ritual, which require patience and vulnerability. That restraint adds authenticity to the story. The spells Nyx casts aren’t world-altering; they’re affirmations dressed in candlelight and smoke, self-made manifestations with a heavy price tag and clear boundaries. It’s a commentary on the commodification of spirituality and the need to protect your energy in a world eager to take it.
This isn’t some heavy-handed diatribe. Instead, it’s fun, sexy, self-aware, and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny. Hayes’ style is brisk and alive. Nyx often feels like she’s narrating directly to the reader, cutting through any pretense. One minute, she’s helping a customer feel empowered by a crystal; the next, she’s having mediocre sex with Damien and thinking more about what she needs to do tomorrow than what’s happening in the moment.
The novel also excels at building its supporting characters, even when they only appear briefly. Maria, a chatty customer who thinks her apartment is haunted, initially reads like a comic relief character but becomes something more—someone sincerely trying to find meaning in a world that often doesn’t give her the tools to do so. And then there’s Zoe, whose skepticism evolves into something deeper. Her transformation is one of the book’s most satisfying arcs, especially when you realize how closely her journey mirrors Nyx’s.
If there’s one element that could have been pushed further, it’s the tension between mundane and magical. While the book straddles both worlds, it sometimes leaves you wanting more high-stakes fallout from Nyx’s choices, especially about her love life, her ethics as a business owner, and the consequences of inducting someone like Zoe into a world they barely understand.
The feminist undercurrent of the story is subtle but undeniable. Nyx is a woman who has built her identity from scratch, refuses to be claimed by a man or a coven, and teaches others to listen to the voice inside rather than the ones around them. That’s not always presented as empowerment, though. It’s lonely, exhausting, and sometimes isolating. But it's real.
As WITCH’S BREW draws to a close, it walks the line between satire and sincerity, weaving together themes of desire, detachment, control, and release. There’s a playful wink in how it embraces the aesthetics of modern witchcraft while subtly nudging at its commercialization, but beneath the surface, this story is grounded in self-definition. It’s about claiming your name, setting boundaries, and deciding who deserves access to your inner world. Whether you're drawn to its enchanting atmosphere, emotional honesty, or sly sense of humor, WITCH’S BREW delivers a memorable mix. It's a novel that understands exactly what it's doing—and encourages you to do the same.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
RAVING REVIEW: Ella M. Hayes doesn’t shy away from the messier parts of life. In WITCH'S BREW, she gives us a heroine who isn’t perfect, polished, or particularly patient—but she’s magnetic, independent, and human in all the best and worst ways. Set in upstate New York, the story leans into its witchy aesthetic while grounding its magic in real emotion: power, validation, escape, connection.
Nyx, the story’s unapologetically complicated protagonist, runs a metaphysical shop called Witch’s Brew. She reads tarot, brews custom teas, and offers a touch of spellcraft—for a price. She’s sharp, tired, sexy, and entirely self-aware, juggling a toxic on-again/off-again boyfriend, Damien, a town full of tourists who treat witchcraft like cosplay, and an undercurrent of something far more intimate: the desire to be seen for who she is.
What makes the writing stand out isn’t the supernatural, though there’s plenty of charm in that—it’s how Hayes captures emotional contradictions in her characters. Nyx is a woman who commands attention but hides away when someone sees too much. She claims to thrive alone, but lights up at the possibility of training someone like Zoe, who steps into her store as a skeptic and walks out as a potential apprentice.
Hayes avoids flashy fantasy tropes in favor of spells rooted in herbalism, intention, and ritual, which require patience and vulnerability. That restraint adds authenticity to the story. The spells Nyx casts aren’t world-altering; they’re affirmations dressed in candlelight and smoke, self-made manifestations with a heavy price tag and clear boundaries. It’s a commentary on the commodification of spirituality and the need to protect your energy in a world eager to take it.
This isn’t some heavy-handed diatribe. Instead, it’s fun, sexy, self-aware, and occasionally laugh-out-loud funny. Hayes’ style is brisk and alive. Nyx often feels like she’s narrating directly to the reader, cutting through any pretense. One minute, she’s helping a customer feel empowered by a crystal; the next, she’s having mediocre sex with Damien and thinking more about what she needs to do tomorrow than what’s happening in the moment.
The novel also excels at building its supporting characters, even when they only appear briefly. Maria, a chatty customer who thinks her apartment is haunted, initially reads like a comic relief character but becomes something more—someone sincerely trying to find meaning in a world that often doesn’t give her the tools to do so. And then there’s Zoe, whose skepticism evolves into something deeper. Her transformation is one of the book’s most satisfying arcs, especially when you realize how closely her journey mirrors Nyx’s.
If there’s one element that could have been pushed further, it’s the tension between mundane and magical. While the book straddles both worlds, it sometimes leaves you wanting more high-stakes fallout from Nyx’s choices, especially about her love life, her ethics as a business owner, and the consequences of inducting someone like Zoe into a world they barely understand.
The feminist undercurrent of the story is subtle but undeniable. Nyx is a woman who has built her identity from scratch, refuses to be claimed by a man or a coven, and teaches others to listen to the voice inside rather than the ones around them. That’s not always presented as empowerment, though. It’s lonely, exhausting, and sometimes isolating. But it's real.
As WITCH’S BREW draws to a close, it walks the line between satire and sincerity, weaving together themes of desire, detachment, control, and release. There’s a playful wink in how it embraces the aesthetics of modern witchcraft while subtly nudging at its commercialization, but beneath the surface, this story is grounded in self-definition. It’s about claiming your name, setting boundaries, and deciding who deserves access to your inner world. Whether you're drawn to its enchanting atmosphere, emotional honesty, or sly sense of humor, WITCH’S BREW delivers a memorable mix. It's a novel that understands exactly what it's doing—and encourages you to do the same.
Please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestr for more reviews.
You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. My social media accounts can also be found on most platforms by searching for 'Overly Honest Reviews'.
July 1, 2025
Witches Brew is the perfect cozy fall read, with just the right blend of comforting small town charm and spooky magic. Nyx’s shop is the heart of the story a place that attracts everyone from love spell seekers to those desperate for help with ghostly encounters.
What really makes this story shine is Nyx herself. She’s such a complex character confident, unapologetically herself, and brimming with sharp humor that keeps you turning the pages. Watching her navigate her world, help her customers, and chase her own happy ending is so rewarding. The supporting cast is just as memorable, adding to that irresistible small town feel where everyone has personality and a role to play.
I especially loved how Witches Brew expands on Nyx, who was just a side character in Bookends. A mysterious, intriguing shop owner seen only through Sylvia’s eyes. Here, we get to truly know her and understand her deep love for all things magical. For readers of Bookends, there’s an extra treat in the way this story ties back to it, with little glimpses of Sylvia’s life through Harry’s updates to his sister. It’s a wonderful nod to the previous book while standing beautifully on its own. If you’re looking for a warm, enchanting read with humor and magic Witches Brew is one you’ll definitely want to pick up.
What really makes this story shine is Nyx herself. She’s such a complex character confident, unapologetically herself, and brimming with sharp humor that keeps you turning the pages. Watching her navigate her world, help her customers, and chase her own happy ending is so rewarding. The supporting cast is just as memorable, adding to that irresistible small town feel where everyone has personality and a role to play.
I especially loved how Witches Brew expands on Nyx, who was just a side character in Bookends. A mysterious, intriguing shop owner seen only through Sylvia’s eyes. Here, we get to truly know her and understand her deep love for all things magical. For readers of Bookends, there’s an extra treat in the way this story ties back to it, with little glimpses of Sylvia’s life through Harry’s updates to his sister. It’s a wonderful nod to the previous book while standing beautifully on its own. If you’re looking for a warm, enchanting read with humor and magic Witches Brew is one you’ll definitely want to pick up.
August 22, 2025
Another amazing book by Ella! I read Bookends last year and couldn't wait for this release!
This book was addictive, Nyx is such a powerful character, yes she's abrasive at times , self confident and independent but evidence by her previous relationship she just wanted to be loved.
This book had a bit of everything, mystery, romance and self improvement. Perfect for the upcoming spooky season! (i'm already in spooky season tho) Great cosy read!
Nyx being a true witch adds so much to the book and to the storyline.
A possessed book, new friends (and romance). This was spicier than Bookends for existing readers but it was great.
The mentions of the first book within this one was really well done but you by no means have had to have read Bookends to read this one (although I think you definitely should)
As always I never want to give too much away because I obviously want everyone to read for themselves so yeh, really enjoyed it! (I started it yesterday 🤣)
Triggers: Just a FYI there are brief descriptions of past SA in some detail within the story.
Big thank you to Ella and Valenza Publishing for this ARC!
This book was addictive, Nyx is such a powerful character, yes she's abrasive at times , self confident and independent but evidence by her previous relationship she just wanted to be loved.
This book had a bit of everything, mystery, romance and self improvement. Perfect for the upcoming spooky season! (i'm already in spooky season tho) Great cosy read!
Nyx being a true witch adds so much to the book and to the storyline.
A possessed book, new friends (and romance). This was spicier than Bookends for existing readers but it was great.
The mentions of the first book within this one was really well done but you by no means have had to have read Bookends to read this one (although I think you definitely should)
As always I never want to give too much away because I obviously want everyone to read for themselves so yeh, really enjoyed it! (I started it yesterday 🤣)
Triggers: Just a FYI there are brief descriptions of past SA in some detail within the story.
Big thank you to Ella and Valenza Publishing for this ARC!
May 14, 2025
This is my second book by Ella, and I love how she mixes magic with business problems, feelings, and romance! Witch’s Brew is a spicy and fun story that I really enjoyed. I loved Frank—he was such a great brotherly figure and added so much heart to the book. I felt like I was living the story with Nyx. I didn’t like Damien at all (on purpose, I think!), and I giggled when Logan showed up—he was such a fun character!
I do wish we got more answers from Logan, like why he decided to help Nyx, more about his past, and some clarity on a few side characters’ actions. I also would’ve loved to see Nyx have a strong moment with a few people who treated her badly (her witch sisters). But overall, this was a good read and I’m excited to read more from Ella!
I do wish we got more answers from Logan, like why he decided to help Nyx, more about his past, and some clarity on a few side characters’ actions. I also would’ve loved to see Nyx have a strong moment with a few people who treated her badly (her witch sisters). But overall, this was a good read and I’m excited to read more from Ella!
May 17, 2025
This was a unique yet quirky and fun read. The characters were so lovable and relateable. Nyx was interesting and I feel like sometimes her choices made her life seem chaotic. I do feel like there were times I wish she had more of a backbone when it came to how she was treated. She's a store owner by day and handles the spiritual needs of others at night.
Characters like Logan brought pizazz to the story but yet his character still had an air of mystery about him.
The characters in the story and the situation they dealt with were very relatible and well written. I mean not everybody has the ability to deal with someone who has a spirit clinging to them. If you love that supernatural and spiritual aspect in a book that you definitely want to read this one.
Characters like Logan brought pizazz to the story but yet his character still had an air of mystery about him.
The characters in the story and the situation they dealt with were very relatible and well written. I mean not everybody has the ability to deal with someone who has a spirit clinging to them. If you love that supernatural and spiritual aspect in a book that you definitely want to read this one.
May 8, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It was a quick, engaging read with a unique setting and a great blend of romance and the supernatural. Logan was an instant favorite — charming and easy to love.
The story follows Nyx, the determined (though often overwhelmed) owner of a small witchy shop. Her stubbornness could be frustrating, but it also made her feel real and relatable. I appreciated how layered her character was, and her personal journey kept me hooked from the start. The supernatural elements added an intriguing twist, especially the mysterious spirit tied to her past. Overall, it was a great mix of emotion, mystery, and magic — a cozy, compelling weekend read that I definitely recommend!
The story follows Nyx, the determined (though often overwhelmed) owner of a small witchy shop. Her stubbornness could be frustrating, but it also made her feel real and relatable. I appreciated how layered her character was, and her personal journey kept me hooked from the start. The supernatural elements added an intriguing twist, especially the mysterious spirit tied to her past. Overall, it was a great mix of emotion, mystery, and magic — a cozy, compelling weekend read that I definitely recommend!
August 12, 2025
This is a 5 star but a 9/10 for spicy. There may have been a bit too much description for my liking in one particular scene but the rest of the book was wonderful. We're back in Saratoga Springs for this second book. 100% this is a stand alone. While Nyx and her shop are mentioned in book 1 (Bookends is the title), that's all that there was and same goes for this one. There are some mentions of Bookends the bookshop and the characters but nothing that makes you feel lost or like you're missing something by not having read book 1.
Full review on my website on 8.19.25.
www.mommodeloading.com
Full review on my website on 8.19.25.
www.mommodeloading.com
July 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️ Witch’s Brew (ARC) by Ella M. Hayes
ARC REVIEW: this book was serverly lacking something, the FMC was not likeable and seemed self-righteous. HATED that she called everyone darling, seemed very patronising, esp to the ‘apprentice’ witch
The flow of the book didn’t blend at times. One moment it was about her history, her client, little witch shop, her love life and then the actual plot (which was forgotten at times) solving what is happening with a new dark spirit / force / energy what had latched onto a (now) ex-client
For the main plot focus, I was already 30% into the book. The whole plot line with the jerk of a boyfriend should’ve been cut short. As the FMC was written to be this boss bitch who takes no shit but put up with an emotionally unavailable boyfriend who she didn’t actually care for (nor was a good lay)
Book was spicy but I honestly couldn’t tell you if the whole point was for it to be mainly for the spicy book lovers or if it was for the mystery lovers.
Confused all the way through as things kept getting dropped (plot wise) then everything happened in the last few chapters.
Read: 18/06/2025 - 22/06/2025
⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
📱
#bookreview #bookstagram #witch’sbrew #ellahayes #arcreview
Bookstagram: goodreads_bymel
ARC REVIEW: this book was serverly lacking something, the FMC was not likeable and seemed self-righteous. HATED that she called everyone darling, seemed very patronising, esp to the ‘apprentice’ witch
The flow of the book didn’t blend at times. One moment it was about her history, her client, little witch shop, her love life and then the actual plot (which was forgotten at times) solving what is happening with a new dark spirit / force / energy what had latched onto a (now) ex-client
For the main plot focus, I was already 30% into the book. The whole plot line with the jerk of a boyfriend should’ve been cut short. As the FMC was written to be this boss bitch who takes no shit but put up with an emotionally unavailable boyfriend who she didn’t actually care for (nor was a good lay)
Book was spicy but I honestly couldn’t tell you if the whole point was for it to be mainly for the spicy book lovers or if it was for the mystery lovers.
Confused all the way through as things kept getting dropped (plot wise) then everything happened in the last few chapters.
Read: 18/06/2025 - 22/06/2025
⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
📱
#bookreview #bookstagram #witch’sbrew #ellahayes #arcreview
Bookstagram: goodreads_bymel
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews