What do you think?
Rate this book
Of Witches & Men #1
Of Toxin & Teacups
Alouette
I never expected my grandmother's cottage to magically vanish. One minute the cottage was there, nestled in the dunes. The next? Poof. Gone.
While on the hunt to find it, my magic is stolen from a ghost– as well as Jacob’s, who is my opposite in every way. Even though he’s partly to blame for my predicament, now I’m forced to work along side Jacob. No good can come from pairing with my brother’s best friend, someone I’m forbidden to associate with.
But I need Jacob’s help and if I don't find that cottage soon, I'll lose more than just a place to live—I'll lose my chance to start fresh and make a name for myself.
Though, I have to admit, losing my heart to a surfer isn't exactly part of the plan.
Jacob
How am I supposed to meet my kid now? Here I am, a washed-up athlete living on my last dime and my magic gets taken from me. All because of Alouette– my best friend’s little sister– who I have nothing in common with. She’s the most frustratingly mysterious woman I've ever met.
Forced to help each other, we've got a ticking time bomb until the next Ceremony before our stolen magic is erased forever. Which means there’s only weeks left to figure out how to meet my child.
The biggest I’m not supposed to grow feelings for Alouette in the process.
No AI was used in the creation of the book or cover
I never expected my grandmother's cottage to magically vanish. One minute the cottage was there, nestled in the dunes. The next? Poof. Gone.
While on the hunt to find it, my magic is stolen from a ghost– as well as Jacob’s, who is my opposite in every way. Even though he’s partly to blame for my predicament, now I’m forced to work along side Jacob. No good can come from pairing with my brother’s best friend, someone I’m forbidden to associate with.
But I need Jacob’s help and if I don't find that cottage soon, I'll lose more than just a place to live—I'll lose my chance to start fresh and make a name for myself.
Though, I have to admit, losing my heart to a surfer isn't exactly part of the plan.
Jacob
How am I supposed to meet my kid now? Here I am, a washed-up athlete living on my last dime and my magic gets taken from me. All because of Alouette– my best friend’s little sister– who I have nothing in common with. She’s the most frustratingly mysterious woman I've ever met.
Forced to help each other, we've got a ticking time bomb until the next Ceremony before our stolen magic is erased forever. Which means there’s only weeks left to figure out how to meet my child.
The biggest I’m not supposed to grow feelings for Alouette in the process.
No AI was used in the creation of the book or cover
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
1 person is currently reading
3683 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 9, 2025
Of Toxins & Teacups by Cassie Swindon
3.5/5 stars
Of Toxins & Teacups is a fun, lighthearted, quick and enjoyable book about magic and witches. It's also about a man who just found out he has a 10 year old daughter and goes on a quest to find her. I enjoyed the fast pace and the magical world. I absolutely loved the happiness and fun and smiles woven throughout this entire story. It was so easy to imagine certain scenes. And that is really the strength and beauty of this book.
The book starts with Alouetta, I am madly in love with her name, who is dealing with the loss of her grandmother, her ouma. She inherited her ouma's cottage but it's nowhere to be found. And she vehemently searches for it.
Alouetta meets up with her brother, and when they meet up she meets his friend Jacob as well. And instantly sparks fly between Alouetta and Jacob. But Marquis, Alouetta's brother, forbids Jacob to act upon his attraction.
Jacob just found out he is a father and he is doing everything in his power to find his child. His journey coincides with Alouetta's journey trying to find the missing house. And suddenly they are in close proximity and cannot hide their feelings anymore.
I really loved how light and joyful this story was. The magic was colourful and vibrant and I loved how much it added to the overall feel of the story.
But I did miss some depth in the story and the characters. I missed a bit of excitement that drove the story forwards. And the chemistry wasn't as powerful and tangible as I would have liked. It was there, but I didn't really feel it reverberate through my own bones. I didn't feel the attraction turn into love. So the 'I love you' felt a bit out of place. I wish the story was a little longer with more focus on them falling in love and truly getting to the 'I love you' part.
The strongest and most felt part in this book was Alouetta's pain from losing her grandmother. That was written very realistically and I instantly loved ouma like she was my own. Cassie absolutely nailed that part.
While I loved that the story felt like a light breeze, I did miss depth in the storyline and characters. So that is why I am settling on 3.5 stars overall out of 5.
3.5/5 stars
Of Toxins & Teacups is a fun, lighthearted, quick and enjoyable book about magic and witches. It's also about a man who just found out he has a 10 year old daughter and goes on a quest to find her. I enjoyed the fast pace and the magical world. I absolutely loved the happiness and fun and smiles woven throughout this entire story. It was so easy to imagine certain scenes. And that is really the strength and beauty of this book.
The book starts with Alouetta, I am madly in love with her name, who is dealing with the loss of her grandmother, her ouma. She inherited her ouma's cottage but it's nowhere to be found. And she vehemently searches for it.
Alouetta meets up with her brother, and when they meet up she meets his friend Jacob as well. And instantly sparks fly between Alouetta and Jacob. But Marquis, Alouetta's brother, forbids Jacob to act upon his attraction.
Jacob just found out he is a father and he is doing everything in his power to find his child. His journey coincides with Alouetta's journey trying to find the missing house. And suddenly they are in close proximity and cannot hide their feelings anymore.
I really loved how light and joyful this story was. The magic was colourful and vibrant and I loved how much it added to the overall feel of the story.
But I did miss some depth in the story and the characters. I missed a bit of excitement that drove the story forwards. And the chemistry wasn't as powerful and tangible as I would have liked. It was there, but I didn't really feel it reverberate through my own bones. I didn't feel the attraction turn into love. So the 'I love you' felt a bit out of place. I wish the story was a little longer with more focus on them falling in love and truly getting to the 'I love you' part.
The strongest and most felt part in this book was Alouetta's pain from losing her grandmother. That was written very realistically and I instantly loved ouma like she was my own. Cassie absolutely nailed that part.
While I loved that the story felt like a light breeze, I did miss depth in the storyline and characters. So that is why I am settling on 3.5 stars overall out of 5.
dnf
June 18, 2025DNF @ 20%
Unfortunately I’m just not the right audience for this book.
I’m not a fan of insta-love, and to be honest I didn’t have a clue what was going on.
This is quite a fast-paced book, and there seemed to be some background information that was missing. The lack of scene-setting made this confusing to read.
Thank you to the author for this e-ARC, but unfortunately it missed the mark for me!
Unfortunately I’m just not the right audience for this book.
I’m not a fan of insta-love, and to be honest I didn’t have a clue what was going on.
This is quite a fast-paced book, and there seemed to be some background information that was missing. The lack of scene-setting made this confusing to read.
Thank you to the author for this e-ARC, but unfortunately it missed the mark for me!
May 9, 2025
Of Toxins & Teacups is a super cute and cozy fantasy romcom.
I enjoyed this book, and really enjoyed the cozy feel to it. I loved how the reader gets to dive straight into this magical world of Fuzers (people who have magic in their DNA) and Zergs (non-magical folks, or you know us muggles), as if there is really no other type of world (which there wouldn't be from the characters perspective) and therefore talking about Leprechauns, Mermaids, fairies wearing top hats, and Unicorns is totally normal. Again, depending on the world we all live in, I suppose referencing magical creatures is pretty normal!
We follow along the story of Alouette, the FMC, and Jacob, the MMC, both Fuzers, in the beachy town of Calypsa (perfect name), and their two very different quests, that bring them both closer together. Alouette is searching for her recently deceased grandmothers cottage, which mysteriously disappeared, and Jacob is trying to find and have a relationship with his child that he only recently found out about. On their trek to find what they are looking for, Jacob and Alouette unintentionally give up their magic to a ghostly witch, and have a time limit on completing their missions in order to get that magic back, or have it lost forever.
This is a perfect rom-com, and includes a lot of side characters that make the story even more fun. Alouettes best friend is hilarious, and Taco the turtle makes a few appearances. Also Jacob is a famous Australian surfer, can't ask for much more than that! This is a slooowww burn too, so the story keeps you on your toes as you wait for that spice!
Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!!
Some Fav Quotes:
"I've never been interested in jocks, but holy mother of the moons, this Jacob guy has a nice body."
"As I step into the home library, I am enveloped in a cocoon of knowledge and imagination. The earthy scent of paper and leather is as comforting as the glow of fireflies that light the towering shelves."
"She wears a purple sports bra with matching sporty shorts that fit her curves like a joey fits in a kanga's pouch."
"As his fingers wrap around mine, a tingling shoots down my wrist and spreads over my whole body. Does he feel it too? This visceral response doesn't make sense. I shouldn't be this affected by any guy."
"Mini ogres and giant fairies and unicorns all bustle around booths."
""I didn't mean to grab you..." "My manly broomstick?" His chuckle sounds like sin in a bottle."
"I move forward, but she holds up a hand to stop me. Call a bloody gravedigger and lower me into the ground. I'm done."
"Every nerve fires with the need to touch more of her, move closer, kiss her endlessly, f*** her until we're both consumed."
I enjoyed this book, and really enjoyed the cozy feel to it. I loved how the reader gets to dive straight into this magical world of Fuzers (people who have magic in their DNA) and Zergs (non-magical folks, or you know us muggles), as if there is really no other type of world (which there wouldn't be from the characters perspective) and therefore talking about Leprechauns, Mermaids, fairies wearing top hats, and Unicorns is totally normal. Again, depending on the world we all live in, I suppose referencing magical creatures is pretty normal!
We follow along the story of Alouette, the FMC, and Jacob, the MMC, both Fuzers, in the beachy town of Calypsa (perfect name), and their two very different quests, that bring them both closer together. Alouette is searching for her recently deceased grandmothers cottage, which mysteriously disappeared, and Jacob is trying to find and have a relationship with his child that he only recently found out about. On their trek to find what they are looking for, Jacob and Alouette unintentionally give up their magic to a ghostly witch, and have a time limit on completing their missions in order to get that magic back, or have it lost forever.
This is a perfect rom-com, and includes a lot of side characters that make the story even more fun. Alouettes best friend is hilarious, and Taco the turtle makes a few appearances. Also Jacob is a famous Australian surfer, can't ask for much more than that! This is a slooowww burn too, so the story keeps you on your toes as you wait for that spice!
Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!!
Some Fav Quotes:
"I've never been interested in jocks, but holy mother of the moons, this Jacob guy has a nice body."
"As I step into the home library, I am enveloped in a cocoon of knowledge and imagination. The earthy scent of paper and leather is as comforting as the glow of fireflies that light the towering shelves."
"She wears a purple sports bra with matching sporty shorts that fit her curves like a joey fits in a kanga's pouch."
"As his fingers wrap around mine, a tingling shoots down my wrist and spreads over my whole body. Does he feel it too? This visceral response doesn't make sense. I shouldn't be this affected by any guy."
"Mini ogres and giant fairies and unicorns all bustle around booths."
""I didn't mean to grab you..." "My manly broomstick?" His chuckle sounds like sin in a bottle."
"I move forward, but she holds up a hand to stop me. Call a bloody gravedigger and lower me into the ground. I'm done."
"Every nerve fires with the need to touch more of her, move closer, kiss her endlessly, f*** her until we're both consumed."
May 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This is such a fun book and instantly sucked me in. I've never read anything from this author before and I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. Alouette and Jacob are so perfectly matched. Her BFF Zola is such a fun person and I loved her so much. I really liked how the story ended, so sweet and perfect for the characters.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author.
This is such a fun book and instantly sucked me in. I've never read anything from this author before and I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. Alouette and Jacob are so perfectly matched. Her BFF Zola is such a fun person and I loved her so much. I really liked how the story ended, so sweet and perfect for the characters.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author.
June 7, 2025
Thank you to Cassie Swindon for the eARC!
The book was lighthearted and the magic system was whimsical. Unfortunately the relationship between the characters felt superficial and was too insta-love for me. The plot also seemed to wrap up very quickly and things happened a bit too conveniently without much conflict. I also felt that Jacob’s Australian accent was exaggerated too much with him constantly saying “mate” or using excessive Aussie slang for the sake of showing how Australian he is.
The book was lighthearted and the magic system was whimsical. Unfortunately the relationship between the characters felt superficial and was too insta-love for me. The plot also seemed to wrap up very quickly and things happened a bit too conveniently without much conflict. I also felt that Jacob’s Australian accent was exaggerated too much with him constantly saying “mate” or using excessive Aussie slang for the sake of showing how Australian he is.
May 5, 2025
I read this as an ARC and am giving an honest review. This was an easy, fluid, fun summery read. I'm glad it ended with a happily ever after for book one and that the others in the series are their own story with separate couples. That steamy scene was ... woo! ... let's just say I enjoyed Australian skill.
Alouette was a sweet, cute character that I was rooting for and honestly, I loved the mystery of where her grandma's cottage disappeared to. The magical elements were whimsical- not too heavy or burdensome so it felt like and airy despite trudging through Alouette's grieving process.
Alouette was a sweet, cute character that I was rooting for and honestly, I loved the mystery of where her grandma's cottage disappeared to. The magical elements were whimsical- not too heavy or burdensome so it felt like and airy despite trudging through Alouette's grieving process.
June 7, 2025
This is a really fun read, fast paced, and kept me intrigued with the whole time. The magic system is one I haven’t read about before! Both main characters have magic, they’re known as Fuzers. Fuzers get one magical ability every thirty days dependent on the approval of the non magical people (Nergs).
The FMC is Alouette, an American, who has recently lost her grandmother, “Ouma”. She inherited her Ouma’s cottage but it has inexplicably vanished! Marquis, her brother, introduces her to his longtime friend Jacob who has come to the States from Australia. She’s attracted to him, but feels like he won’t understand her feelings or her life when she finds out he’s super famous and tries to put aside the effect he has on her body. When they go in search of more information on the missing house and Jacob’s child, they are told that their quests are interwoven and their success depends on their ability to work together. Alouette slowly starts to trust in Jacob and her walls start to come down.
The MMC, Jacob, is a celebrity. A former pro surfer from Australia, and recently found out he has a ten year old daughter from a one night stand. The press is hounding him and he’s doing all he can to find his daughter, desperately wanting a relationship with her. His journey places him in Alouette’s path trying to find Ouma’s missing house. They find themselves in close quarters while trying to complete their quests, but Marquis says “Lou”, is off limits, much to his frustration.
Jacob and Alouette are tricked into giving up their magical abilities to a mostly dead ghost witch, and if they don’t finish the missions the witch has given them before the next Ceremony, they risk losing their powers forever.
It’s a really fun ride, replete with Aussi lingo, fantastical characters, ex-girlfriends drama, magical weather events, and both dangerous and emotionally vulnerable moments. And great spice along that slow burn journey! These two make such a good couple that you can’t help but pull for them. I hope you give it a read!
The FMC is Alouette, an American, who has recently lost her grandmother, “Ouma”. She inherited her Ouma’s cottage but it has inexplicably vanished! Marquis, her brother, introduces her to his longtime friend Jacob who has come to the States from Australia. She’s attracted to him, but feels like he won’t understand her feelings or her life when she finds out he’s super famous and tries to put aside the effect he has on her body. When they go in search of more information on the missing house and Jacob’s child, they are told that their quests are interwoven and their success depends on their ability to work together. Alouette slowly starts to trust in Jacob and her walls start to come down.
The MMC, Jacob, is a celebrity. A former pro surfer from Australia, and recently found out he has a ten year old daughter from a one night stand. The press is hounding him and he’s doing all he can to find his daughter, desperately wanting a relationship with her. His journey places him in Alouette’s path trying to find Ouma’s missing house. They find themselves in close quarters while trying to complete their quests, but Marquis says “Lou”, is off limits, much to his frustration.
Jacob and Alouette are tricked into giving up their magical abilities to a mostly dead ghost witch, and if they don’t finish the missions the witch has given them before the next Ceremony, they risk losing their powers forever.
It’s a really fun ride, replete with Aussi lingo, fantastical characters, ex-girlfriends drama, magical weather events, and both dangerous and emotionally vulnerable moments. And great spice along that slow burn journey! These two make such a good couple that you can’t help but pull for them. I hope you give it a read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2025
Of Toxin & Teacups is book one in the Of Witches & Men series. It is a Paranormal Romance series that will consist of three books.
This story was so cute and fun!
I absolutely love the unique magic system in this book! Magic wielders are known as Fuzers while non-magical folk are called Nergs (reminds me a little of Harry Potter where non-magical folk are called Muggles). I love the resemblance. Fuzers get one magical ability every thirty days dependent on the approval of the Nergs. For example, you can have the magical ability to be a speed reader for thirty days! How amazing is that?! I want that magical power!
Our FMCs name is Alouette (Lou). She’s a cautious and quite unconfident woman who is grieving her recently deceased grandmother, Oulma. Lou is using her newest magical power to try to find Oulma’s cottage that has magically disappeared.
Our MMC, Jacob is a fun Aussi ex-pro surfer who found out that he’s had a daughter for ten years after a one night stand. Jacob is desperate to find her and become part of her life.
As out of a magical story, these two characters are paired together to work alongside each other by a ghost witch they encounter in the woods who strips Jacob and Lou of their powers. They can only retrieve their powers if they complete their assigned tasks by the next Ceremony or their magic is gone forever. Along the way, they encounter trolls, Leprechauns, poisonous beetles, and more! It’s such a fun ride!
🐢Forbidden Love
🩷Insta-Attraction
🐦⬛Opposites Attract
🐢Stolen Magic
🩷Forced To Work Together
🐦⬛Leprechauns, Trolls, Ghost Witches, Etc.
This story was so cute and fun!
I absolutely love the unique magic system in this book! Magic wielders are known as Fuzers while non-magical folk are called Nergs (reminds me a little of Harry Potter where non-magical folk are called Muggles). I love the resemblance. Fuzers get one magical ability every thirty days dependent on the approval of the Nergs. For example, you can have the magical ability to be a speed reader for thirty days! How amazing is that?! I want that magical power!
Our FMCs name is Alouette (Lou). She’s a cautious and quite unconfident woman who is grieving her recently deceased grandmother, Oulma. Lou is using her newest magical power to try to find Oulma’s cottage that has magically disappeared.
Our MMC, Jacob is a fun Aussi ex-pro surfer who found out that he’s had a daughter for ten years after a one night stand. Jacob is desperate to find her and become part of her life.
As out of a magical story, these two characters are paired together to work alongside each other by a ghost witch they encounter in the woods who strips Jacob and Lou of their powers. They can only retrieve their powers if they complete their assigned tasks by the next Ceremony or their magic is gone forever. Along the way, they encounter trolls, Leprechauns, poisonous beetles, and more! It’s such a fun ride!
🐢Forbidden Love
🩷Insta-Attraction
🐦⬛Opposites Attract
🐢Stolen Magic
🩷Forced To Work Together
🐦⬛Leprechauns, Trolls, Ghost Witches, Etc.
June 4, 2025
Toxins and Tea Cups is the first book in Cassie Swindon's Of Witches and Men, a cozy paranormal romance series. I did not like the MFC at first. Alouette was bratty, selfish, judgmental, and a few other things. It wasn't until further in, when I learned about her family situation, that I started to feel any sympathy for her. Halfway through, she did grow on me; I did find all her weird quirks amusing. It's what I liked most about her.
As for the MMC, Jacob, I liked him. A lot. He had this upbeat personality. He's kind, thoughtful, caring, selfless, passionate, and many other things. Even though he's going through something horrible, he never lost sight of who he was at heart. He's a swoon-worthy book boyfriend for sure. The chemistry between him and Alouette (he calls her Little Owl or Owlette, IKR) is undeniable. If fated mates exist in this world, they are for sure.
The story takes place in our world, specifically in North Carolina, and the supernatural is present. Only a small percentage are magic users, yet there are other creatures. Then it's the matter of what creatures exist and which ones don't. I know the fae do, but wolf shifters seem to be a myth. I am wildly curious about this world. I have so many questions and would like to know more. But I digress. The plot was good and a bigger adventure than I had pictured. Wild magic storms, magical midnight markets, curses, crazy exes, family drama, and so much more. That's not even mentioning the push-pull. When are they going to cave to the romantic feelings the MCs are having? I was entertained. Toxins and Tea Cups was a good read.
As for the MMC, Jacob, I liked him. A lot. He had this upbeat personality. He's kind, thoughtful, caring, selfless, passionate, and many other things. Even though he's going through something horrible, he never lost sight of who he was at heart. He's a swoon-worthy book boyfriend for sure. The chemistry between him and Alouette (he calls her Little Owl or Owlette, IKR) is undeniable. If fated mates exist in this world, they are for sure.
The story takes place in our world, specifically in North Carolina, and the supernatural is present. Only a small percentage are magic users, yet there are other creatures. Then it's the matter of what creatures exist and which ones don't. I know the fae do, but wolf shifters seem to be a myth. I am wildly curious about this world. I have so many questions and would like to know more. But I digress. The plot was good and a bigger adventure than I had pictured. Wild magic storms, magical midnight markets, curses, crazy exes, family drama, and so much more. That's not even mentioning the push-pull. When are they going to cave to the romantic feelings the MCs are having? I was entertained. Toxins and Tea Cups was a good read.
May 16, 2025
4.75 stars
ARC Read!!
“To understand the world, listen to the bird’s silent flight.”
I’m over the moon, swooning over these characters and the story!
Alouette stole my heart from the start of the book and solidified herself as one of my favorite FMC by the end. From her uniqueness and strong personality to the emotional vulnerability she displayed I couldn’t stop myself from loving her.
Jacob grew on me from the moment he was first introduced to us. I originally thought he would be like other surfer MMC’s I’ve read about in other books but Cassie Swindon has effortlessly changed my way of thinking! His ultimate wish to meet his child, who has been keep from him, opens up a side on men we as readers don’t normally see in male characters often—which makes his plot line that more intriguing to read about!
The magic system is unique and fun. Although there isn’t much depth into it I believe is well balanced between magic system and actual plot. Also the spicy scenes were done tastefully and thoughtfully that made it even more special between our characters!!
Absolutely grateful towards Cassie Swindon and their team for giving me access to the book early and am excitingly (impatiently) waiting for the this one and nexts ones to publicly be released so I can have physical copies!!!
ARC Read!!
“To understand the world, listen to the bird’s silent flight.”
I’m over the moon, swooning over these characters and the story!
Alouette stole my heart from the start of the book and solidified herself as one of my favorite FMC by the end. From her uniqueness and strong personality to the emotional vulnerability she displayed I couldn’t stop myself from loving her.
Jacob grew on me from the moment he was first introduced to us. I originally thought he would be like other surfer MMC’s I’ve read about in other books but Cassie Swindon has effortlessly changed my way of thinking! His ultimate wish to meet his child, who has been keep from him, opens up a side on men we as readers don’t normally see in male characters often—which makes his plot line that more intriguing to read about!
The magic system is unique and fun. Although there isn’t much depth into it I believe is well balanced between magic system and actual plot. Also the spicy scenes were done tastefully and thoughtfully that made it even more special between our characters!!
Absolutely grateful towards Cassie Swindon and their team for giving me access to the book early and am excitingly (impatiently) waiting for the this one and nexts ones to publicly be released so I can have physical copies!!!
May 6, 2025
I was falling into a reading slump when the eARC of this book hit my inbox. Do I want to read it now or later? Do I even want to read at all today? What am I doing? 🤷🏻♀️
I thought I’d just load it onto my ereader, maybe have a quick look to see what it’s about, is there an Author’s Note at the front… and then by the time I’d realised I’d already finished the book 😆
This is such a cute, cosy, magical small town romcom 💕 The character list at the front of the book has a section for “barely mentioned characters”. Intrigued, I turned to Chapter One…
The characters are amazing (except the annoying ones - but what’s a small town book without a few nemeses??), the magic system is enchanting (the non-magical folk are known as Nergs 😂 , while magical folk are known as Fuzers and can only have one charm that works throughout a month, before swapping out for something else… like a library! 😆), and while cosy we see our FMC and MMC on a hair-raising adventure where they confront their fears. I really do enjoy these cosy stories with great character arcs!
I thought I’d just load it onto my ereader, maybe have a quick look to see what it’s about, is there an Author’s Note at the front… and then by the time I’d realised I’d already finished the book 😆
This is such a cute, cosy, magical small town romcom 💕 The character list at the front of the book has a section for “barely mentioned characters”. Intrigued, I turned to Chapter One…
The characters are amazing (except the annoying ones - but what’s a small town book without a few nemeses??), the magic system is enchanting (the non-magical folk are known as Nergs 😂 , while magical folk are known as Fuzers and can only have one charm that works throughout a month, before swapping out for something else… like a library! 😆), and while cosy we see our FMC and MMC on a hair-raising adventure where they confront their fears. I really do enjoy these cosy stories with great character arcs!
May 5, 2025
I read this book as an ARC and loved it!
I loved Jacob and Alouette and their relationship. Jacob is her older brother’s best friend so off limits but when they are forced to work together everything changes.
I love how they tried to resist each other and their growing feelings. I get it Marquis said no and they want to respect their brother/best friend but you can’t stop love he will get over it.
I loved the little twists and turns because just when I thought I had everything figured out another twist happened. Some of my favorite parts would be a little bit of a spoiler if I mentioned them in detail but I loved when Alouette is ushered into a room to talk to someone without Jacob and he took a stool to the glass after banging on it with his fists because they didn’t let him in with her and he was worried.
This book had me hooked from page one and I can’t wait to read more from Cassie.
I loved Jacob and Alouette and their relationship. Jacob is her older brother’s best friend so off limits but when they are forced to work together everything changes.
I love how they tried to resist each other and their growing feelings. I get it Marquis said no and they want to respect their brother/best friend but you can’t stop love he will get over it.
I loved the little twists and turns because just when I thought I had everything figured out another twist happened. Some of my favorite parts would be a little bit of a spoiler if I mentioned them in detail but I loved when Alouette is ushered into a room to talk to someone without Jacob and he took a stool to the glass after banging on it with his fists because they didn’t let him in with her and he was worried.
This book had me hooked from page one and I can’t wait to read more from Cassie.
May 24, 2025
3.75/5 stars
This is a fun lighthearted delve into a magical world where there’s love and adventure. A convenient/inconvenient meeting between Alouette and Jacob leads to an intertwined adventure that allows us to watch them fall for each other. The flirting between the two is adorable. It’s kind of a slow burn but the book isn’t long so it isn’t torturous.
It was a bit difficult to get into in the beginning but I blame that on the reader. This magical world is also filled with magical creatures so it shouldn’t have been a surprise to see them in the book. There were times when I actually forgot that the world was more than just people who possessed magical gifts. Once I was able to get a good grip on it, the book flowed a lot better for me.
All in all, a very cute book. I caught myself smiling at a few scenes.
This is a fun lighthearted delve into a magical world where there’s love and adventure. A convenient/inconvenient meeting between Alouette and Jacob leads to an intertwined adventure that allows us to watch them fall for each other. The flirting between the two is adorable. It’s kind of a slow burn but the book isn’t long so it isn’t torturous.
It was a bit difficult to get into in the beginning but I blame that on the reader. This magical world is also filled with magical creatures so it shouldn’t have been a surprise to see them in the book. There were times when I actually forgot that the world was more than just people who possessed magical gifts. Once I was able to get a good grip on it, the book flowed a lot better for me.
All in all, a very cute book. I caught myself smiling at a few scenes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2025
I luckily received this as a free e-ARC, and this is my honest review.
Love:
This was a fun story to read. It starts as a typical rom-com, but with a few quirks like magic, then there are other beings present and notions of a moving cottage. Surprisingly, I loved the very clear modern setting with magic and magical creatures and, I loved how texts are graphicly displayed. It gives a little extra visually.
Don’t love:
It feels like the FMC and MMC have a very mature, comfortable relationship from the first time they meet, at the same time their thoughts and action display a nervous kind of sexual attraction that I would expect from the start of a relationship. I would have liked the author to build on this more to form this relationship.
Love:
This was a fun story to read. It starts as a typical rom-com, but with a few quirks like magic, then there are other beings present and notions of a moving cottage. Surprisingly, I loved the very clear modern setting with magic and magical creatures and, I loved how texts are graphicly displayed. It gives a little extra visually.
Don’t love:
It feels like the FMC and MMC have a very mature, comfortable relationship from the first time they meet, at the same time their thoughts and action display a nervous kind of sexual attraction that I would expect from the start of a relationship. I would have liked the author to build on this more to form this relationship.
May 30, 2025
This was my 2nd ARC, and I loved it! 😁🫶
This rom-com/romantasy is about a ceramicist ☕️ named Alouette that is trying to find her deceased grandmother's cottage that magically disappeared and her brother's best friend, Jacob, an Australian retired surfer, 🏄♂️ who just wants to meet his daughter that he didn't know existed. When both of their magical powers get taken from them, they must go on a crazy adventure to help each other find the things they are searching for most or else they will have to live without their powers forevermore. This forces them to work close together and also maybe find a little extra than what they were originally looking for! 😉
Who doesn't love a forbidden love story? 🥰
(18+ because there are a few 🌶 scenes. 🤭)
This rom-com/romantasy is about a ceramicist ☕️ named Alouette that is trying to find her deceased grandmother's cottage that magically disappeared and her brother's best friend, Jacob, an Australian retired surfer, 🏄♂️ who just wants to meet his daughter that he didn't know existed. When both of their magical powers get taken from them, they must go on a crazy adventure to help each other find the things they are searching for most or else they will have to live without their powers forevermore. This forces them to work close together and also maybe find a little extra than what they were originally looking for! 😉
Who doesn't love a forbidden love story? 🥰
(18+ because there are a few 🌶 scenes. 🤭)
June 7, 2025
I don't like to rate books low, but this one just wasn't for me. I gave it 2.5 stars. It took me about 3 weeks to read because I couldn't get into it.
The majority of the book was describing how the characters felt about each other, which was insta-lust/love (my least favorite trope). The relationship felt rushed since the book took place over a short period of time. it felt like the main characters spent more time thinking about how to have each other than anything else.
I also could not stand the MMC. It felt like he didn't take anything serious, even though he did. I think it was because his attitude was so carefree, it felt like he didn't care.
This book will be great for some people, I just wasn't the target audience.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review from the author.
The majority of the book was describing how the characters felt about each other, which was insta-lust/love (my least favorite trope). The relationship felt rushed since the book took place over a short period of time. it felt like the main characters spent more time thinking about how to have each other than anything else.
I also could not stand the MMC. It felt like he didn't take anything serious, even though he did. I think it was because his attitude was so carefree, it felt like he didn't care.
This book will be great for some people, I just wasn't the target audience.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review from the author.
June 8, 2025
The creativity and imagination in this story deserves way more than five stars. Then take the story and mix so many everyday things and struggles that we all deal with, with magic, ghosts, folklore, and of course romance. It's a love story that starts with grief and surprise. Jacob and Alouette start out as strangers and soon discover they both are searching to resolve their own life challenges. As they search for answers, they wind up in a bind that leaves them entangled together as a team, and without some of their abilities. They are also on a deadline that would have them loosing everything.
I can't wait to read the next installment in the series.
I have voluntarily left this review.
I can't wait to read the next installment in the series.
I have voluntarily left this review.
June 2, 2025
I was giggling & kicking my feet like a little girl the whole time. There is never a dull moment with Alouette & Jacob around. The magic system in this book is so unique & it gives a fresh twist to what we're used to seeing in the fantasy/romance genre.
The banter and tension is top tier, and the spice?!?
10/10
Of Toxins and Teacups by Cassie Swindon comes out June 6th of this year. I was so honored to be an ARC reader for this book, it truly was such a good, quick read & has made the bracket for my favorite book of the month in my book journal!
The banter and tension is top tier, and the spice?!?
10/10
Of Toxins and Teacups by Cassie Swindon comes out June 6th of this year. I was so honored to be an ARC reader for this book, it truly was such a good, quick read & has made the bracket for my favorite book of the month in my book journal!
June 6, 2025
What To Expect:
- rom com
- paranormal romance
- witches and more
- forbidden love
- insta-attention
- beachy town
this was such a cute and cozy little rom com.
its definitely a feel good book. i definitely recommend giving this one a read this summer. especially if you want a quick and easy read.
there was so much magic in this book and it made me wish that i could live in a world/town like Calypsa which is a perfect name for a little magical beach town if you ask me.
thank you cassie swindon for sending me a copy of this book to review!
- rom com
- paranormal romance
- witches and more
- forbidden love
- insta-attention
- beachy town
this was such a cute and cozy little rom com.
its definitely a feel good book. i definitely recommend giving this one a read this summer. especially if you want a quick and easy read.
there was so much magic in this book and it made me wish that i could live in a world/town like Calypsa which is a perfect name for a little magical beach town if you ask me.
thank you cassie swindon for sending me a copy of this book to review!
May 5, 2025
I loved that Jacob sounded truly Australian with his dialogue. Them as a opposites attract couple was adorable. The story followed a witchy romcom vibe but was still unique with little turns I wasn't expecting. Like the private investigator scene... that was cool. I wanted to know more about the turtles, lol, but I guess they weren't huge characters after all. Overall, I'd recommend this beachy book to my friends and read the others in this series.
May 8, 2025
This book is so cute. Well written, easy smooth story line.
When you meet your best friends sister and realize that you have a connection. But he says NO you can't date my sister. You know you should stop the attraction but how?
If you need something light, fun, magical and just over all feel good book. This is the one you need.
I enjoy a good happily ever after ending.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
When you meet your best friends sister and realize that you have a connection. But he says NO you can't date my sister. You know you should stop the attraction but how?
If you need something light, fun, magical and just over all feel good book. This is the one you need.
I enjoy a good happily ever after ending.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 14, 2025
This was such a nice and cozy story. I absolutely love a cozy fantasy and stories like this one are the reason for this. Both Alouette and Jacob go through their shares or trials during this book the way they work together and their chemistry is honestly so lovely and made for such a fun read. Would highly recommend for anyone who is a fan of cozy fantasy stories. Thank you to Cassie Swindon for the ARC of this story.
May 25, 2025
Cassie writing is beautiful and full of details.
We meet Alouetta who is the main character who is deeply sadden by her ouma which she recently lost. She meets her brother's best friend which is meant to be big no. However , there is this slow burn in a way and that turns into this chemistry that can't be denied with Jacob. Jacob is also trying to find his child and Alouetta her gradma's cottage which leads them to work side by side. This is a cute romance book.
We meet Alouetta who is the main character who is deeply sadden by her ouma which she recently lost. She meets her brother's best friend which is meant to be big no. However , there is this slow burn in a way and that turns into this chemistry that can't be denied with Jacob. Jacob is also trying to find his child and Alouetta her gradma's cottage which leads them to work side by side. This is a cute romance book.
May 25, 2025
An unfortunate DNF at 35% on this because I'm just struggling to keep up with what's actually supposed to be happening.
There are a lot of tangents and mis-matching storylines and I currently do not have the energy or brain power to piece together the chaoticness.
The underlying story and (so far) characters seemed interesting but just isn't hitting the spot for me.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. I hope you find your audience! 😇🫶🏻
There are a lot of tangents and mis-matching storylines and I currently do not have the energy or brain power to piece together the chaoticness.
The underlying story and (so far) characters seemed interesting but just isn't hitting the spot for me.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. I hope you find your audience! 😇🫶🏻
May 28, 2025
I loved this book, it’s so lighthearted ! The characters were amazing and I loved the fact the author put the characters names and who they were in the beginning, I constantly checked it to make sure I was remembering correctly.
I did take longer to read this than I would have liked, just because life got in the way so I’m disappointed I didn’t finish it sooner. But other than my mistake, it was perfect!
10/10 would read again ! 🥳
I did take longer to read this than I would have liked, just because life got in the way so I’m disappointed I didn’t finish it sooner. But other than my mistake, it was perfect!
10/10 would read again ! 🥳
June 10, 2025
Thank you Cassie swindon for my chance at the eARC! Of Tea & Toxins was super cute and fast read. I enjoyed following the stories of Alouette and Jacob and their insta-love. Both their stories of looking for something that pushes them toward one another, along with the magical aspects of course, make it an interesting read with a fun plot. I feel like it moved along very quickly (I read it in a day) and wrapped up maybe a bit too quickly? I would have loved to get more meat into it.
June 7, 2025
This enchanting story blends seaside magic, heartfelt grief, and a touch of ghostly drama into an unforgettable summer romance. It’s not your typical love story—it's deeper, wilder, and full of heart. My first read by Cassie Swindon, and I loved the Aussie ex-athlete lead, chaotic best friends, and the best friend’s sibling trope. Pure magical mayhem!
June 10, 2025
This book was very cute. I love story between air and water. A magic filled journey to find and acknowledge your true love. A little spicy. A little hopeful for what we all want in life. I little sad and damaging… and I still have questions. I adore Cassie’s stories and she made me fall in love once again. Thank you Cassie!
August 13, 2025
I loved reading this book, it was such a good book. I enjoyed how the author came up with the idea with fuser, for a magic user. But their magic was only limited to one spell a month until the next month when they could choose the new spell in a ceremony the following month.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author for a fair and honest review
I received a complimentary ARC from the author for a fair and honest review
May 5, 2025
I could never be a celebrity in the spotlight like Jacob had to deal with. Plus, he's RETIRED and still gets all that attention? That's crazy. I liked following along with his journey to meet his kid and truly hated his ex for keeping him in the dark!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews