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Love Potion Number 99
Brooke doesn’t believe in magic.
Ethan doesn’t think he can escape his fate.
A simple cup of tea is about to change everything.
Thanks to a misbehaving puppy, Brooke and Ethan had a meet-ugly instead of a meet-cute during what was already a horrible week for them both. When they meet again a year later, it's under even worse circumstances.
Ethan has left the job he loved due to a non-fatal but life-changing diagnosis and will do whatever it takes to show his new boss he can be an amazing fire inspector—even if it means shutting down the animal shelter that Brooke is opening to fulfill her grandmother's last request.
They’re poised to be enemies for life until Ethan accidentally drinks a "love potion" that Brooke made and suddenly acts like….well, like he’s in love with her.
When the chance to impress his boss by helping Brooke appears like magic, Ethan jumps at the chance. Is Brooke just taking advantage of the potion’s effects or does fate have plans for them both?
This sweet, whimsical romance is the first book in the new A Touch Of Magic series featuring kissing-only heat, adorable animals, and the kind of coincidences that could just be interference from friends…or maybe something more magical.
Ethan doesn’t think he can escape his fate.
A simple cup of tea is about to change everything.
Thanks to a misbehaving puppy, Brooke and Ethan had a meet-ugly instead of a meet-cute during what was already a horrible week for them both. When they meet again a year later, it's under even worse circumstances.
Ethan has left the job he loved due to a non-fatal but life-changing diagnosis and will do whatever it takes to show his new boss he can be an amazing fire inspector—even if it means shutting down the animal shelter that Brooke is opening to fulfill her grandmother's last request.
They’re poised to be enemies for life until Ethan accidentally drinks a "love potion" that Brooke made and suddenly acts like….well, like he’s in love with her.
When the chance to impress his boss by helping Brooke appears like magic, Ethan jumps at the chance. Is Brooke just taking advantage of the potion’s effects or does fate have plans for them both?
This sweet, whimsical romance is the first book in the new A Touch Of Magic series featuring kissing-only heat, adorable animals, and the kind of coincidences that could just be interference from friends…or maybe something more magical.
- GenresRomance
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 27, 2025
2 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 12, 2025
This was honestly adorable. I really liked it, it was warm and whimsical with a little bit of chaos.
Brooke is trying to open an animal shelter in memory of her grandmother.
Ethan is a former firefighter, who had to leave a job he loves after a life-changing diagnosis.
Their first encounter went badly, the second even worse. But a magical tea is about to change all of that. Because, after accidentally drinking a "love potion", Ethan is suddenly acting like he likes Brooke, wanting to help her. For Ethan though, volunteering at the shelter is an opportunity to show his boss that he is perfect for this new job.
But is this all happening because of the tea or are there real feelings in play?
I loved the small town setting and the animal shelter. The animals were adorable, especially Cloudy. I wish we got more of them.
The romance between Brooke and Ethan was so sweet. I liked them together.
They had their fair share of baggage and they were really slow to deal with it, which was annoying at times, but I'm glad they at least took steps to do it at the end.
I really loved the secondary characters, especially Aisha and Krista. I can't wait to read their stories too.
The initial conflict, as well as the start of the miscommunication, was honestly so ridiculous, I can't even be mad about it. A win is a win.
I liked the pacing, it was a quick and lighthearted read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Victory Editing for providing me with an ARC.*
Brooke is trying to open an animal shelter in memory of her grandmother.
Ethan is a former firefighter, who had to leave a job he loves after a life-changing diagnosis.
Their first encounter went badly, the second even worse. But a magical tea is about to change all of that. Because, after accidentally drinking a "love potion", Ethan is suddenly acting like he likes Brooke, wanting to help her. For Ethan though, volunteering at the shelter is an opportunity to show his boss that he is perfect for this new job.
But is this all happening because of the tea or are there real feelings in play?
I loved the small town setting and the animal shelter. The animals were adorable, especially Cloudy. I wish we got more of them.
The romance between Brooke and Ethan was so sweet. I liked them together.
They had their fair share of baggage and they were really slow to deal with it, which was annoying at times, but I'm glad they at least took steps to do it at the end.
I really loved the secondary characters, especially Aisha and Krista. I can't wait to read their stories too.
The initial conflict, as well as the start of the miscommunication, was honestly so ridiculous, I can't even be mad about it. A win is a win.
I liked the pacing, it was a quick and lighthearted read.
*Thank you to Netgalley and to Victory Editing for providing me with an ARC.*
May 9, 2025
What do you get when you mix a love potion, a grumpy ex-firefighter, a chaotic puppy, and one very determined heroine? The cutest magical rom-com you’ll read this year.
Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, whimsical delight with just the right splash of chaos—and a misbehaving dog, because obviously. Daphne James Huff delivers a sweet small-town romance where fate, feelings, and an enchanted cup of tea collide in the most entertaining way.
Brooke is a practical, big-hearted heroine trying to fulfil her grandmother’s last wish by opening an animal shelter. Ethan is a gruff former firefighter with a life-changing diagnosis and something to prove. Their meet-ugly is pure awkwardness (thanks to one pesky puppy), but it’s the accidental love potion that kicks everything into gear—and gives this story its irresistibly quirky charm.
The chemistry is sweet, the banter is playful, and the side characters (both human and furry) are scene-stealers. Add in magical tea blends, meddling friends, and a budding romance that might be fate… or something a little sparkly, and you’ve got a feel-good page-turner that’s full of heart.
Perfect for fans of closed-door romance, second chances, and a touch of unexpected magic. Love Potion Number 99 is the literary equivalent of a warm hug and a cup of tea—comforting, cosy, and impossible to resist.
Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, whimsical delight with just the right splash of chaos—and a misbehaving dog, because obviously. Daphne James Huff delivers a sweet small-town romance where fate, feelings, and an enchanted cup of tea collide in the most entertaining way.
Brooke is a practical, big-hearted heroine trying to fulfil her grandmother’s last wish by opening an animal shelter. Ethan is a gruff former firefighter with a life-changing diagnosis and something to prove. Their meet-ugly is pure awkwardness (thanks to one pesky puppy), but it’s the accidental love potion that kicks everything into gear—and gives this story its irresistibly quirky charm.
The chemistry is sweet, the banter is playful, and the side characters (both human and furry) are scene-stealers. Add in magical tea blends, meddling friends, and a budding romance that might be fate… or something a little sparkly, and you’ve got a feel-good page-turner that’s full of heart.
Perfect for fans of closed-door romance, second chances, and a touch of unexpected magic. Love Potion Number 99 is the literary equivalent of a warm hug and a cup of tea—comforting, cosy, and impossible to resist.
May 18, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A really sweet love story, with captivating characters, “Love Potion Number 99”, by Daphne James Huff, features an adorable, and a bit shy hero, going through hard times, and a heroine struggling with her own issues.
I loved the main characters and their very rocky beginning. The events related to the rambunctious dog and the love potion are fun, often hilarious with the sequence of awkwardness, embarrassement and misunderstandings.
Ethan is a wonderful hero, an introvert trying to roll with whatever the universe sends his way even if his life has turned upside down with a recent diagnosis.
I loved how the author portrayed the struggles of the socially awkward, shy hero as he tries to adapt to a new reality and an uncertain futur while having to to abandon the career he loved which provided easy social interactions.
Ethan’s life philosophy of accepting fate is interesting. His personality is marked by tragedy and he tries to be stoic again now when facing another challenge.
The feelings of insecurity and inadequacy common to both leads are addressed with care and humor.
Brooke’s issues seeing herself as a failure when she is a caring person are also compelling.
I loved that Ethan was honest and brave enough to tell Brooke early on about his condition.
All the characters are complex, and very interesting.
Although Brooke and Ethan get their romance, the story also has an open-ended feeling into it that I appreciated: as in real life things aren’t entirely solved or closed.
A really sweet love story, with captivating characters, “Love Potion Number 99”, by Daphne James Huff, features an adorable, and a bit shy hero, going through hard times, and a heroine struggling with her own issues.
I loved the main characters and their very rocky beginning. The events related to the rambunctious dog and the love potion are fun, often hilarious with the sequence of awkwardness, embarrassement and misunderstandings.
Ethan is a wonderful hero, an introvert trying to roll with whatever the universe sends his way even if his life has turned upside down with a recent diagnosis.
I loved how the author portrayed the struggles of the socially awkward, shy hero as he tries to adapt to a new reality and an uncertain futur while having to to abandon the career he loved which provided easy social interactions.
Ethan’s life philosophy of accepting fate is interesting. His personality is marked by tragedy and he tries to be stoic again now when facing another challenge.
The feelings of insecurity and inadequacy common to both leads are addressed with care and humor.
Brooke’s issues seeing herself as a failure when she is a caring person are also compelling.
I loved that Ethan was honest and brave enough to tell Brooke early on about his condition.
All the characters are complex, and very interesting.
Although Brooke and Ethan get their romance, the story also has an open-ended feeling into it that I appreciated: as in real life things aren’t entirely solved or closed.
May 17, 2025
Who doesn't love a little enemies to lovers set in cute small town? Brooke is opening up the town's first animal shelter to fulfill her late grandmother's wishes and Ethan is attempting to transition into a new role at the fire station after a life-changing diagnosis. Their first interaction could not have gone worse and their second isn't any better. Surely they won't ever be able to get along ... unless we introduce a little magic?
This is a cute and cozy rom-com that features kissing only scenes between the main characters. It also has dual POVs between the FMC and MMC, which allows readers to get a glimpse at the thought process and reasoning behind both of their actions. There are times when I found both of them to be frustrating/immature and this was in part due to a bit of a miscommunication trope, but not enough for me to not enjoy the book. It boils down more to them not explaining the incentives behind their actions and having topics that are understandably difficult to broach for the first time.
There is a touch of magic at play in this story, as the title would suggest, but there isn't anything supernatural about the world/environment the story is set in. If anything, I actually would have appreciated a bit more exploration into if it is/isn't magic (and more of the shelter animal cameos), but that's more of a personal preference. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for interconnected stories for Brooke's two best friends (Krista and Aisha) because I'm already invested in their love lives.
Love Potion Number 99 has a quirky charm to it, mixed with playful banter among the characters, and animals - what's not to love? I'd recommend this to anyone looking for an easy romcom/beach read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read/review this ARC!
This is a cute and cozy rom-com that features kissing only scenes between the main characters. It also has dual POVs between the FMC and MMC, which allows readers to get a glimpse at the thought process and reasoning behind both of their actions. There are times when I found both of them to be frustrating/immature and this was in part due to a bit of a miscommunication trope, but not enough for me to not enjoy the book. It boils down more to them not explaining the incentives behind their actions and having topics that are understandably difficult to broach for the first time.
There is a touch of magic at play in this story, as the title would suggest, but there isn't anything supernatural about the world/environment the story is set in. If anything, I actually would have appreciated a bit more exploration into if it is/isn't magic (and more of the shelter animal cameos), but that's more of a personal preference. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for interconnected stories for Brooke's two best friends (Krista and Aisha) because I'm already invested in their love lives.
Love Potion Number 99 has a quirky charm to it, mixed with playful banter among the characters, and animals - what's not to love? I'd recommend this to anyone looking for an easy romcom/beach read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read/review this ARC!
May 29, 2025
First of all I want to thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
Love Potion Number 99 was such a fun and heartwarming read! This charming story mixes sweet romance with just the right hint of magic, making it a delightful escape from reality. The chemistry between the characters felt natural and engaging, and I loved the whimsical touches that gave the story its unique flavour.
The magical element added an extra layer of intrigue without overpowering the romantic core of the story. It felt like a modern fairytale, perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good read with a sprinkle of enchantment.
I genuinely enjoyed every page and would absolutely recommend it to fans of cozy romances with a magical twist!
Love Potion Number 99 was such a fun and heartwarming read! This charming story mixes sweet romance with just the right hint of magic, making it a delightful escape from reality. The chemistry between the characters felt natural and engaging, and I loved the whimsical touches that gave the story its unique flavour.
The magical element added an extra layer of intrigue without overpowering the romantic core of the story. It felt like a modern fairytale, perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good read with a sprinkle of enchantment.
I genuinely enjoyed every page and would absolutely recommend it to fans of cozy romances with a magical twist!
August 13, 2025
This book was very cute and charming. Small town vibes with a little bit of magic. What's not to love here!
This cute and cozy romance hit all the right spots.
I loved all of the characters, including our secondary characters, Krista and Alisha. Brooke and Ethan are a sweet couple with a little bit of baggage and some serious social awkwardness. But hey, who isn't socially awkward. I can't say I'm personally a huge for the miscommunication trope but I did still really enjoy this read and can't wait to see which character we follow next in the series.
This book is a perfect summer/fall read with some fun furry and non furry characters!
Thank you to netgalley, the author and the publishers for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This cute and cozy romance hit all the right spots.
I loved all of the characters, including our secondary characters, Krista and Alisha. Brooke and Ethan are a sweet couple with a little bit of baggage and some serious social awkwardness. But hey, who isn't socially awkward. I can't say I'm personally a huge for the miscommunication trope but I did still really enjoy this read and can't wait to see which character we follow next in the series.
This book is a perfect summer/fall read with some fun furry and non furry characters!
Thank you to netgalley, the author and the publishers for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 31, 2025
This was my very first ARC and was so happy to be accepted for it.
Overall, this book was a very cosy and sweet read. I liked it more than I thought I would as I'm quite a critical person when it comes to books.
The book has a bit of a magical premise. The plot revolves around Brooke and Ethan, and is written in 3rd person, with a dual point of view.. It focuses on their love story and their lives. Brooke is a down to earth person that likes to have control over what's happening in her life and hates uncertainty, while Ethan is the exact opposite, and due to his trauma, his preferred coping mechanism is to go with the flow and accept what happens in his life as fate's doing. At times it gets quite irritating. Both have suffered trauma, and Brooke has a complex of wanting to keep up a facade that her nan has built and is constantly trying to fill her shoes, but that's just how some people are I guess. The book tries to address the trauma a bit and it has quite a satisfying resolution at the end. The little group of friends that Brooke has was such a sweet point and I loved reading about them and their dynamic.
I loved that the characters were quite mature and their thoughts seemed reasonable for most of the book, with just a few instances where they didn't add up. I loved how Ethan's diagnosis was researched and presented.
The pacing was quite slow and it took me a while to get hooked.
I am not a massive fan of repetitions in the book like how big and muscular Ethan was.
The whole Jerry situation was not fleshed out very well and was hoping to find out what his problem was with Ethan, as it didn't make a lot of sense. I didn't understand why he had to be super friendly for an inspector job, and why Jerry was making up weird rules then getting upset randomly.
The magic for me was a bit funny because it makes no sense coming from Brooke and Krista, and then it doesn't get resolved either, but it's pretty obvious which way it should go, as it's a dual point of view and you can see really well if it's there or not.
I would still recommend it though as it's an easy and wholesome read. 😊
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
Overall, this book was a very cosy and sweet read. I liked it more than I thought I would as I'm quite a critical person when it comes to books.
The book has a bit of a magical premise. The plot revolves around Brooke and Ethan, and is written in 3rd person, with a dual point of view.. It focuses on their love story and their lives. Brooke is a down to earth person that likes to have control over what's happening in her life and hates uncertainty, while Ethan is the exact opposite, and due to his trauma, his preferred coping mechanism is to go with the flow and accept what happens in his life as fate's doing. At times it gets quite irritating. Both have suffered trauma, and Brooke has a complex of wanting to keep up a facade that her nan has built and is constantly trying to fill her shoes, but that's just how some people are I guess. The book tries to address the trauma a bit and it has quite a satisfying resolution at the end. The little group of friends that Brooke has was such a sweet point and I loved reading about them and their dynamic.
I loved that the characters were quite mature and their thoughts seemed reasonable for most of the book, with just a few instances where they didn't add up. I loved how Ethan's diagnosis was researched and presented.
The pacing was quite slow and it took me a while to get hooked.
I am not a massive fan of repetitions in the book like how big and muscular Ethan was.
The whole Jerry situation was not fleshed out very well and was hoping to find out what his problem was with Ethan, as it didn't make a lot of sense. I didn't understand why he had to be super friendly for an inspector job, and why Jerry was making up weird rules then getting upset randomly.
The magic for me was a bit funny because it makes no sense coming from Brooke and Krista, and then it doesn't get resolved either, but it's pretty obvious which way it should go, as it's a dual point of view and you can see really well if it's there or not.
I would still recommend it though as it's an easy and wholesome read. 😊
Thank you Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
May 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Cute story idea, but fell short in execution.
The writing felt too simple, unnatural, and got repetitive. The pacing was confusing to me. The story starts off at Halloween and the bulk of the story happens in the weeks between then and Thanksgiving. In that time, they open an animal shelter, run out of money for the shelter, plan and execute two impromptu fundraising events for the shelter, fall in love and break up. What timeline are we working with here? There were some side plots that didn’t get wrapped up, which was disappointing. Why was Jerry so mean to Ethan all the time? And what was up with his weird comment about Brooke’s mom? Who started the fire at the shelter? What was up with Krista at the auction? All of these go unanswered.
Brooke, as a character, was very hard to root for. She was rude, judgmental, and immature - especially for someone in their 30’s. For having a year to get the shelter running, Brooke feels ill-prepared to actually run a shelter, nor does it feel like she actually wanted to do it. I’m fairly certain she doesn’t even like animals and is simply doing this because it was her Gran’s dream.
Ethan felt like he had a little more depth to him. Having recently moved to town and receiving a life-altering diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa. He works hard to fit in while adjusting to his new life. But he is so passive, just letting this happen to and around him, letting “fate decide”, rather than actually trying for anything. If he even catches a whiff that something isn’t going right, he immediately bails out because that must mean it isn’t “meant to be”. This got old and frustrating very quickly.
Overall, the story was missing the whimsical and cozy vibe I love about books with magic/magical-realism.
Cute story idea, but fell short in execution.
The writing felt too simple, unnatural, and got repetitive. The pacing was confusing to me. The story starts off at Halloween and the bulk of the story happens in the weeks between then and Thanksgiving. In that time, they open an animal shelter, run out of money for the shelter, plan and execute two impromptu fundraising events for the shelter, fall in love and break up. What timeline are we working with here? There were some side plots that didn’t get wrapped up, which was disappointing. Why was Jerry so mean to Ethan all the time? And what was up with his weird comment about Brooke’s mom? Who started the fire at the shelter? What was up with Krista at the auction? All of these go unanswered.
Brooke, as a character, was very hard to root for. She was rude, judgmental, and immature - especially for someone in their 30’s. For having a year to get the shelter running, Brooke feels ill-prepared to actually run a shelter, nor does it feel like she actually wanted to do it. I’m fairly certain she doesn’t even like animals and is simply doing this because it was her Gran’s dream.
Ethan felt like he had a little more depth to him. Having recently moved to town and receiving a life-altering diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa. He works hard to fit in while adjusting to his new life. But he is so passive, just letting this happen to and around him, letting “fate decide”, rather than actually trying for anything. If he even catches a whiff that something isn’t going right, he immediately bails out because that must mean it isn’t “meant to be”. This got old and frustrating very quickly.
Overall, the story was missing the whimsical and cozy vibe I love about books with magic/magical-realism.
May 11, 2025
I loved this book.
I thought it was adorable.
Ingredients = silly meet cute (or ugly, as is said), a grumpy ex-firefighter, a woman trying to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish, and a puppy.
Love this book. This one I could read again because I liked it enough.
Brooke, our FMC, is a determined, practical, and big-hearted heroine in our book. She is determined to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish to open an animal shelter. Ethan, our MMC, is an ex-firefighter trying to prove that a diagnosis can't stop him.
The meet-cute was hilariously awkward due to the puppy, but then the chemistry that develops between these two is irresistible.
Banter throughout this book makes it feel fun and light. The couple is sweet, but not sickeningly so.
No wild spicy scenes, they are closed-door.
Both MCs have baggage they try to work through, but sometimes feel like they are not making much progress (one of my few criticisms).
The plot was well structured, but it did switch POV's (first and third), so I did find myself a bit confused once or twice, but I quickly recovered and figured things out. The pace was good; I could have used a little quicker pace, but it works with this plot.
Characters are well-developed and easy to connect with. Just normal folks with baggage they try to work through. Still, their connection/chemistry was great.
I loved the animal shelter, the small town, and the sweet romance. It made me want to come back to this little world that Daphne James Huff creates for the reader. I can't wait for subsequent books. The subplots are a great setup for further development of this world!
Thank you to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
Happy Reading!
I thought it was adorable.
Ingredients = silly meet cute (or ugly, as is said), a grumpy ex-firefighter, a woman trying to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish, and a puppy.
Love this book. This one I could read again because I liked it enough.
Brooke, our FMC, is a determined, practical, and big-hearted heroine in our book. She is determined to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish to open an animal shelter. Ethan, our MMC, is an ex-firefighter trying to prove that a diagnosis can't stop him.
The meet-cute was hilariously awkward due to the puppy, but then the chemistry that develops between these two is irresistible.
Banter throughout this book makes it feel fun and light. The couple is sweet, but not sickeningly so.
No wild spicy scenes, they are closed-door.
Both MCs have baggage they try to work through, but sometimes feel like they are not making much progress (one of my few criticisms).
The plot was well structured, but it did switch POV's (first and third), so I did find myself a bit confused once or twice, but I quickly recovered and figured things out. The pace was good; I could have used a little quicker pace, but it works with this plot.
Characters are well-developed and easy to connect with. Just normal folks with baggage they try to work through. Still, their connection/chemistry was great.
I loved the animal shelter, the small town, and the sweet romance. It made me want to come back to this little world that Daphne James Huff creates for the reader. I can't wait for subsequent books. The subplots are a great setup for further development of this world!
Thank you to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
Happy Reading!
May 29, 2025
Love Potion Number 99 is a heartwarming romantic comedy brimming with heart, humor, and just the right amount of magic. The story follows Brooke, a woman struggling with the recent loss of her beloved grandmother, who was famous for her “magical” teas and smoothies. In an attempt to keep her grandmother’s memory alive, Brooke recreates one of her grandmother’s most famous recipes—the "Love Potion Smoothie." Little does she know, it will lead to an unexpected connection with her reclusive, brooding neighbor, Ethan.
Ethan, a firefighter recently diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, is grappling with his diagnosis and the loss of his dream career. He's turned inward, spending most of his time working out in his backyard where Brooke and her friends can't help but ogle him. After an accidental encounter involving Ethan’s dog destroying a garden planted by Brooke's grandmother, the two are hardly on the best terms. But when Ethan unknowingly drinks the potion at Brooke's Halloween party, his behavior shifts dramatically—showing her kindness and attention that she begins to wonder might not be entirely genuine.
As Brooke and Ethan work together on her grandmother's dream project—opening an animal shelter—their romance slowly blossoms. But Brooke is torn, unsure if Ethan’s newfound affection is the result of the potion or something more real. Their slow-burn romance is sweet and tender, with plenty of playful banter, heartfelt moments, and a tender exploration of vulnerability.
Love Potion Number 99 is a charming blend of romance, personal growth, and a touch of whimsy. Fans of sweet, closed-door romances with a dash of magic will love this enchanting story about healing, second chances, and finding love in unexpected places.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Daphne James Huff for giving me the opportunity to read a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Ethan, a firefighter recently diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, is grappling with his diagnosis and the loss of his dream career. He's turned inward, spending most of his time working out in his backyard where Brooke and her friends can't help but ogle him. After an accidental encounter involving Ethan’s dog destroying a garden planted by Brooke's grandmother, the two are hardly on the best terms. But when Ethan unknowingly drinks the potion at Brooke's Halloween party, his behavior shifts dramatically—showing her kindness and attention that she begins to wonder might not be entirely genuine.
As Brooke and Ethan work together on her grandmother's dream project—opening an animal shelter—their romance slowly blossoms. But Brooke is torn, unsure if Ethan’s newfound affection is the result of the potion or something more real. Their slow-burn romance is sweet and tender, with plenty of playful banter, heartfelt moments, and a tender exploration of vulnerability.
Love Potion Number 99 is a charming blend of romance, personal growth, and a touch of whimsy. Fans of sweet, closed-door romances with a dash of magic will love this enchanting story about healing, second chances, and finding love in unexpected places.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Daphne James Huff for giving me the opportunity to read a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2025
Love Potion Number 99 by Daphne James Huff is the cutest magical rom-com you’ll read this year.
Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, whimsical delight with just the right splash of chaotic premises. Daphne James Huff delivers a sweet small-town romance where fate, feelings, and an enchanted cup of tea collide in the most entertaining way.
Brooke is a practical, big-hearted heroine trying to fulfil her grandmother’s last wish by opening an animal shelter. Ethan is a gruff former firefighter with a life-changing diagnosis and set out to prove that his diagnosis can't & won't stop him. Their meet-cute is pure awkwardness (thanks to one pesky puppy), but it’s the accidental love potion that kicks everything into gear—and gives this story its irresistibly quirky charm. The chemistry that develops between these two is irresistible.
Banter throughout this book makes it feel fun and light. The couple is sweet but there are no wild spicy scenes, they are closed-door.
The chemistry is sweet, the banter is playful, and the side characters are lovable. Mix in magical tea blends, meddling friends, and a budding fated romance and you’ve got a page-turner that’s full of heart.
Perfect for fans of closed-door romance, second chances, and a touch of unexpected magic. Love Potion Number 99 is the literary comforting, cozy, and impossible to resist.
Tropes/ Ingredients = silly meet cute (or ugly, as is said), a grumpy ex-firefighter, a woman trying to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish, and a puppy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
Happy Reading!
Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, whimsical delight with just the right splash of chaotic premises. Daphne James Huff delivers a sweet small-town romance where fate, feelings, and an enchanted cup of tea collide in the most entertaining way.
Brooke is a practical, big-hearted heroine trying to fulfil her grandmother’s last wish by opening an animal shelter. Ethan is a gruff former firefighter with a life-changing diagnosis and set out to prove that his diagnosis can't & won't stop him. Their meet-cute is pure awkwardness (thanks to one pesky puppy), but it’s the accidental love potion that kicks everything into gear—and gives this story its irresistibly quirky charm. The chemistry that develops between these two is irresistible.
Banter throughout this book makes it feel fun and light. The couple is sweet but there are no wild spicy scenes, they are closed-door.
The chemistry is sweet, the banter is playful, and the side characters are lovable. Mix in magical tea blends, meddling friends, and a budding fated romance and you’ve got a page-turner that’s full of heart.
Perfect for fans of closed-door romance, second chances, and a touch of unexpected magic. Love Potion Number 99 is the literary comforting, cozy, and impossible to resist.
Tropes/ Ingredients = silly meet cute (or ugly, as is said), a grumpy ex-firefighter, a woman trying to fulfill her Grandmother's last wish, and a puppy.
Thank you to NetGalley and Daphne James Huff for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
Happy Reading!
May 21, 2025
✨ Review: Love Potion Number 99 by Daphne James Huff ✨
This book was such a cozy, heartwarming surprise—with just the right mix of magic, romance, and emotional depth. Love Potion Number 99 isn’t just a fluffy rom-com (though it has plenty of swoony moments!); it’s also a story about grief, healing, and finding connection in unexpected ways.
The main character really resonated with me—she’s navigating life after loss, still grieving her grandmother in quiet, tender ways. Her use of “magic” feels like more than spells and potions—it’s her way of staying close to someone she loved deeply, and it adds a beautiful emotional thread throughout the story. I loved how her connection to her grandmother is felt in the herbs she blends, the little rituals she keeps alive, and the comfort she finds in the magical traditions they shared.
The love interest, too, is going through his own struggles, and what I really appreciated was how their relationship gave him space to open up. There’s a softness in their bond—not just chemistry, but real trust being built. Watching him learn to accept support, find his footing, and discover who he is in the wake of his own challenges was just as rewarding as the romantic arc.
Daphne James Huff does a lovely job balancing the lightness of a magical romance with the realness of grief and growth. The magical elements aren’t flashy or dramatic—they’re gentle and grounding, just like the tone of the book overall. It made me smile, it made me tear up a bit, and it left me feeling comforted.
If you love stories with heart, healing, and just a little bit of enchantment, Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, quiet kind of magic you won’t want to miss.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book was such a cozy, heartwarming surprise—with just the right mix of magic, romance, and emotional depth. Love Potion Number 99 isn’t just a fluffy rom-com (though it has plenty of swoony moments!); it’s also a story about grief, healing, and finding connection in unexpected ways.
The main character really resonated with me—she’s navigating life after loss, still grieving her grandmother in quiet, tender ways. Her use of “magic” feels like more than spells and potions—it’s her way of staying close to someone she loved deeply, and it adds a beautiful emotional thread throughout the story. I loved how her connection to her grandmother is felt in the herbs she blends, the little rituals she keeps alive, and the comfort she finds in the magical traditions they shared.
The love interest, too, is going through his own struggles, and what I really appreciated was how their relationship gave him space to open up. There’s a softness in their bond—not just chemistry, but real trust being built. Watching him learn to accept support, find his footing, and discover who he is in the wake of his own challenges was just as rewarding as the romantic arc.
Daphne James Huff does a lovely job balancing the lightness of a magical romance with the realness of grief and growth. The magical elements aren’t flashy or dramatic—they’re gentle and grounding, just like the tone of the book overall. It made me smile, it made me tear up a bit, and it left me feeling comforted.
If you love stories with heart, healing, and just a little bit of enchantment, Love Potion Number 99 is a warm, quiet kind of magic you won’t want to miss.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
May 29, 2025
3.5 stars
This was a cute story! I loved the small town setting, and the ambience of Brooke opening an animal shelter. Things start off pretty quickly with a "meet-ugly". Brooke approaches things logically, and Ethan is all about signs. And when Ethan drank the "love potion" at the Halloween party, it made me giggle with the second guessing that ensued!
I have to say, about 30% of this novel (possibly more!) is the main characters' descriptive reaction to every single touch or glance: a touch sent electricity through him, his hands brushed against hers with a sizzle, every touch tinges their cheeks red. When he simply grabbed their cups, she wasn't able to breathe. When he grabbed her arm to steady himself from a shove, she experienced a mini explosion of fireworks along her skin. So many zings and not enough plot. Ethan had been in love with Brooke for weeks by Thanksgiving, but they only got to chatting during the Halloween party! It felt rushed.
Also, what was up with Jerry???
Because I want to remember this. The ending was perfect:
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC!
This was a cute story! I loved the small town setting, and the ambience of Brooke opening an animal shelter. Things start off pretty quickly with a "meet-ugly". Brooke approaches things logically, and Ethan is all about signs. And when Ethan drank the "love potion" at the Halloween party, it made me giggle with the second guessing that ensued!
I have to say, about 30% of this novel (possibly more!) is the main characters' descriptive reaction to every single touch or glance: a touch sent electricity through him, his hands brushed against hers with a sizzle, every touch tinges their cheeks red. When he simply grabbed their cups, she wasn't able to breathe. When he grabbed her arm to steady himself from a shove, she experienced a mini explosion of fireworks along her skin. So many zings and not enough plot. Ethan had been in love with Brooke for weeks by Thanksgiving, but they only got to chatting during the Halloween party! It felt rushed.
Also, what was up with Jerry???
Because I want to remember this. The ending was perfect:
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC!
July 3, 2025
The magical elements of this story are highly suspect, but I still very much enjoyed this as a romance. Ethan and Brooke meet in a rather unconventional way and things spiral from there. When Ethan’s foster puppy eats one of Brooke’s grandmother’s prize plants they are immediately enemies, at least in Brooke’s eyes.
These two do still need to live in the same neighborhood, so while Brooke and her friends enjoy his outdoor workouts from afar, she keeps up a good front of holding the grudge. Ethan, however, is curious and putting on a good show. While Brooke is dealing with the loss of her grandmother and living up to her legacy (or against her mother’s legacy), Ethan is managing through some life changing news. Losing his parents taught him to just go where life takes him, but getting a diagnosis that puts him out of his firefighting job and into a really terrible inspector gig is not the best situation for him. A surprise invite to Brooke’s Halloween party ends up putting these two back in each other’s path and potentially exposes Ethan to a “love potion.”
It was adorable watching these two try to adapt to life as a reluctant couple, always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Eventually they find their footing, but it takes a lot of the usual miscommunications to get there. I did really enjoy meeting Brooke’s friends and hope we get to see them all paired off in their own unique romance installments.
These two do still need to live in the same neighborhood, so while Brooke and her friends enjoy his outdoor workouts from afar, she keeps up a good front of holding the grudge. Ethan, however, is curious and putting on a good show. While Brooke is dealing with the loss of her grandmother and living up to her legacy (or against her mother’s legacy), Ethan is managing through some life changing news. Losing his parents taught him to just go where life takes him, but getting a diagnosis that puts him out of his firefighting job and into a really terrible inspector gig is not the best situation for him. A surprise invite to Brooke’s Halloween party ends up putting these two back in each other’s path and potentially exposes Ethan to a “love potion.”
It was adorable watching these two try to adapt to life as a reluctant couple, always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Eventually they find their footing, but it takes a lot of the usual miscommunications to get there. I did really enjoy meeting Brooke’s friends and hope we get to see them all paired off in their own unique romance installments.
May 23, 2025
3.75⭐
Brooke es una mujer práctica, con los pies bien puestos en la tierra y el corazón lleno de amor, que intenta cumplir el último deseo de su abuela: abrir un refugio de animales, incluso si eso significa dejar de lado sus sueños.
Ethan, por su parte, es un exbombero recientemente diagnosticado con una condición que lo obliga a dejar el trabajo que amaba. Su filosofía de vida, más resignada y fluida, choca con la necesidad de control de Brooke… y eso queda claro desde su primer (y desastroso) encuentro provocado por un cachorro travieso.
La relación entre Brooke y Ethan se construye de manera lenta y sincera, con una química que crece con cada página. Lo hermoso de esta historia es que no se basa solo en la atracción, sino en la construcción de una confianza mutua, en el espacio que ambos se dan para sanar y evolucionar. Sus heridas emocionales, miedos y mecanismos de defensa están bien explorados, y aunque a veces sus acciones pueden frustrar, también se sienten reales. Hay momento donde dan ganas de sacudirlos por ser necios, pero al final es ambos aprenden que cada uno tiene su forma de ver las cosas y aprenden a comunicarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
Brooke es una mujer práctica, con los pies bien puestos en la tierra y el corazón lleno de amor, que intenta cumplir el último deseo de su abuela: abrir un refugio de animales, incluso si eso significa dejar de lado sus sueños.
Ethan, por su parte, es un exbombero recientemente diagnosticado con una condición que lo obliga a dejar el trabajo que amaba. Su filosofía de vida, más resignada y fluida, choca con la necesidad de control de Brooke… y eso queda claro desde su primer (y desastroso) encuentro provocado por un cachorro travieso.
La relación entre Brooke y Ethan se construye de manera lenta y sincera, con una química que crece con cada página. Lo hermoso de esta historia es que no se basa solo en la atracción, sino en la construcción de una confianza mutua, en el espacio que ambos se dan para sanar y evolucionar. Sus heridas emocionales, miedos y mecanismos de defensa están bien explorados, y aunque a veces sus acciones pueden frustrar, también se sienten reales. Hay momento donde dan ganas de sacudirlos por ser necios, pero al final es ambos aprenden que cada uno tiene su forma de ver las cosas y aprenden a comunicarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
May 11, 2025
ARC Review – Love Potion Number 99 by Daphne James Huff
Rating: 3.5 stars
This story starts off fun and whimsical, with a chaotic “meet-ugly” and a magical premise that immediately drew me in. Brooke and Ethan both have emotional baggage, but instead of working through it, they often seemed to circle back to the same issues without any actual growth, which became tiring. Ethan’s superstition felt more like indecision—he avoided making real choices by leaving everything up to “fate.” The narrative also shifts confusingly between third and first person at times, like in the line: “She knew she’d done the right thing by pushing Ethan away. So why am I so miserable?” Still, their slow-burn connection felt genuine, and I loved the animal shelter subplot and cozy small-town charm. A sweet, low-heat romance with a sprinkle of magic and plenty of heart—this is a solid start to a promising series.
Rating: 3.5 stars
This story starts off fun and whimsical, with a chaotic “meet-ugly” and a magical premise that immediately drew me in. Brooke and Ethan both have emotional baggage, but instead of working through it, they often seemed to circle back to the same issues without any actual growth, which became tiring. Ethan’s superstition felt more like indecision—he avoided making real choices by leaving everything up to “fate.” The narrative also shifts confusingly between third and first person at times, like in the line: “She knew she’d done the right thing by pushing Ethan away. So why am I so miserable?” Still, their slow-burn connection felt genuine, and I loved the animal shelter subplot and cozy small-town charm. A sweet, low-heat romance with a sprinkle of magic and plenty of heart—this is a solid start to a promising series.
May 27, 2025
This book was equal parts swoony and frustrating! Brooke, the FMC, after losing her beloved Gran, is building an animal shelter in her honor. It was her Gran's final wish. After a year of mourning her passing, Brooke is working hard and putting way too much pressure on herself to get the shelter opened and to live up to everyone's expectations of who her Gran was. That's a lot to take on and would make anyone feel like they were drowning! Enter neighbor Ethan, former firefighter, fire inspector in-training, person Brooke does NOT like, volunteer at the shelter who ends up having a huge heart and world changing happenings in his life. These two have so many insecurities and misunderstandings it's laughable! Eventually, outlooks begin to change but can they change enough? This was such a great book with wonderfully broken characters that help make each other whole.
September 12, 2025
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this arc. This is my own review.
This story was adorable!! This had everything that makes a cozy, light hearted read: small town vibes, grumpy/sunshine, and juuuuuuust enough magic to make it a nice magical realism story without having to suspend too much disbelief.
I appreciate stories where I don't get too stressed out while reading them, and this was perfect. The drama was minimum and I was able to sit back and enjoy a cozy romance. I was originally drawn to the title and the nostalgia of watching Love Potion No. 9 as a little kid. This didn't disappoint!
Ultimately, this was a 4 star read because it was fun and fluffy, but didn't have me sobbing into my sheets or ugly crying online. But still-- I loved this and you should absolutely give it as try.
This story was adorable!! This had everything that makes a cozy, light hearted read: small town vibes, grumpy/sunshine, and juuuuuuust enough magic to make it a nice magical realism story without having to suspend too much disbelief.
I appreciate stories where I don't get too stressed out while reading them, and this was perfect. The drama was minimum and I was able to sit back and enjoy a cozy romance. I was originally drawn to the title and the nostalgia of watching Love Potion No. 9 as a little kid. This didn't disappoint!
Ultimately, this was a 4 star read because it was fun and fluffy, but didn't have me sobbing into my sheets or ugly crying online. But still-- I loved this and you should absolutely give it as try.
October 26, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op, and the author for the chance to read this book.
I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I found the characters frustrating and just wanted to shake them.
Brooke and Ethan both struggle to take charge of their feelings and thoughts, which leads Brooke to doubt everything she does. She is also trying to live up to a family reputation that it seems no one else is pressuring her to live up to beside herself. Ethan believes everything is up to destiny to decide, so he just floats along, not making any effort to go after the things he truly wants. The combination of these two personalities made me want to give up at times as it felt like the story would go nowhere. In the end, their relationship was sweet, and one you wanted to succeed.
I enjoyed this book for the most part, but I found the characters frustrating and just wanted to shake them.
Brooke and Ethan both struggle to take charge of their feelings and thoughts, which leads Brooke to doubt everything she does. She is also trying to live up to a family reputation that it seems no one else is pressuring her to live up to beside herself. Ethan believes everything is up to destiny to decide, so he just floats along, not making any effort to go after the things he truly wants. The combination of these two personalities made me want to give up at times as it felt like the story would go nowhere. In the end, their relationship was sweet, and one you wanted to succeed.
May 23, 2025
Love Potion Number 99 is one of those rom-coms that doesn't take itself too seriously and that’s what makes it so fun.
Brooke and Ethan’s first meeting is gloriously awkward (shoutout to the out-of-control puppy), and their second meeting is even worse. I liked that both characters were dealing with very real struggles, and yet the story kept things light and charming without ignoring the emotional undercurrents. The magical tea/potion element was cute and added just enough whimsy to keep the “enemies-to-lovers” dynamic from feeling too familiar. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was rooting for them because of the potion or in spite of it, which I think was kind of the point. And the banter? Surprisingly sweet, with just enough bite.
Brooke and Ethan’s first meeting is gloriously awkward (shoutout to the out-of-control puppy), and their second meeting is even worse. I liked that both characters were dealing with very real struggles, and yet the story kept things light and charming without ignoring the emotional undercurrents. The magical tea/potion element was cute and added just enough whimsy to keep the “enemies-to-lovers” dynamic from feeling too familiar. Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I was rooting for them because of the potion or in spite of it, which I think was kind of the point. And the banter? Surprisingly sweet, with just enough bite.
May 27, 2025
A funny and magic story , Brooke and Ethan are neighbors and the first time they met was because his puppy was misbehaving and they fought . One year later she is trying to open the animal shelter that was her grandmother wish at her will and Ethan is the fire inspector who was inspecting her shelter . When Ethan drinks at her halloween party a love potion and he acts like he is in love with her what will she do ?
I received this book from netgalley , the author and the publisher as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .
I received this book from netgalley , the author and the publisher as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .
May 8, 2025
Got this book as an ARC from netgalley.
This was a very cute book, I really liked the dual POV, and I'm always a sucker for reading book with animal shelters, and a huge plus having fire fighters in it as well. But I must admit I was wanting more of the magic. Like even if the main character didn't believe in magic, her friends could have asked her for more of those potions. Overall it was a cute story, belongs in the feel-good section for sure.
This was a very cute book, I really liked the dual POV, and I'm always a sucker for reading book with animal shelters, and a huge plus having fire fighters in it as well. But I must admit I was wanting more of the magic. Like even if the main character didn't believe in magic, her friends could have asked her for more of those potions. Overall it was a cute story, belongs in the feel-good section for sure.
May 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this arc.
If you love cozy reads this could be a good book for you but unfortunately it didn’t quite work for me.
I thought the main characters on their own had interesting character development but I didn’t really buy into their love and become attached to the idea of them being together.
If you enjoyed books like the Baby Dragon Cafe and want another with less dragons and just a splash of witchy potions. Then you should give this a go.
If you love cozy reads this could be a good book for you but unfortunately it didn’t quite work for me.
I thought the main characters on their own had interesting character development but I didn’t really buy into their love and become attached to the idea of them being together.
If you enjoyed books like the Baby Dragon Cafe and want another with less dragons and just a splash of witchy potions. Then you should give this a go.
May 26, 2025
Brooke and Ethan have the opposite of a meet-cute, and a year later are still not speaking, even as next door neighbors. When he turns up at her Halloween party and accidently drinks a supposed love potion, will she be able to take him seriously when he then start to show an interest in her? A great read, I liked how it was told from both points of view and look forward to the next book in this series.
May 30, 2025
Very light hearted close door romance, spice was minimal with more buildup to the kiss which was a nice change from open door. Characters took time developing, was a sweet story line and characters had a quick make up
July 12, 2025
I found the romance to be very mild with a slow paced plot and characters that I am sad to say I never really connected with as a whole. I wanted to like this book but I just don't feel it was up my alley.
Thankyou to Net galley and Victory Editing Net galley Co-Op for an arc of this book.
Thankyou to Net galley and Victory Editing Net galley Co-Op for an arc of this book.
May 31, 2025
What a fun and enjoyable story. This love potion has quite an effect on Ethan. Brooke could be the winner in the circumstances that have brought her and Ethan together. What a fun story.
did-not-finish
September 12, 2025dnf at 45%
Nothing wrong with the book, just wasn’t enjoying it at this point in my life. Maybe gonna try again when I’m in this vibe 😋
Nothing wrong with the book, just wasn’t enjoying it at this point in my life. Maybe gonna try again when I’m in this vibe 😋
November 18, 2025
Cozy &cute
This book is a cozy and warm autumn read. Perfect it you just want to seat with a warm drink and enjoy some romance with a spark of magic.
This book is a cozy and warm autumn read. Perfect it you just want to seat with a warm drink and enjoy some romance with a spark of magic.
May 12, 2025
ARC read 3.3 ⭐️!The idea was cute, and whimsical. I love how the characters were written, and wish there were more about the animals, especially, especially Cloudy. I did enjoy the growth the characters went through and how they worked to better themselves, particularly going to therapy. Personally I just don't love miscommunication tropes, but this was definitely the best done of it. Also, please just let the characters curse.
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