A Case of Hexes and Hand Cream: A Villainess Reborn Novel

The Noblewoman's Guide to Cosmetics, Commerce, and Courting Disaster #2

by Arisa May

Back in action, society belle turned entrepreneur Renee is determined to safeguard her family's future through wealth. But when she uncovers a plot that could destroy a young woman's life, she steps in as an unexpected savior, using wisdom from her past life to outmaneuver the villainous fiancé.

Meanwhile, her intriguing relationship with Duke Montfort and the charismatic Prince Kylian only adds zest to her multifaceted life. But as she skillfully juggles these roles, disaster looms. A sudden catastrophe threatens her business and risks causing a diplomatic incident with a neighboring kingdom.

Can Renee salvage her dreams and avert an international crisis?

*was previously published as The Villainess Wants to Make Money, Not a Match, Book 2

Genres: Fantasy

282 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 16, 2025

About the author

Arisa writes stories with a touch of magic, and is especially interested in portal fantasies (isekai) and the villainess trope. She has written over fifteen novels; several have been translated into French and Italian. She hails from Taiwan, where she can’t survive without air-conditioning, and when she’s not reading or writing, she enjoys baking desserts and dancing to Kpop.


*formerly published under the name of Aya Ling.
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

Reviews

[Sydney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Feel Like New Stars

The Villainess Wants To Make Money Not A Match is the second book in the series by Arisa May.

I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy this book even more. Mostly, the inventive way in which the author crafted the moments of turmoil and struggle for Renee. Especially when paired with the romantic, yet respectful, crushes of these noble teens. It's vastly more interesting to combine the drama of unrequited love or affection with the unique obstacle that is noble intrigue.

Now, this talk about dragons in the future? I am here for it. As well I found myself overjoyed with the impact Renee's friendship has had on our dear Flossie. She has come out of her shell and used her own talents to secure more renown. I'm excited to discover who, if any, will win this lovely young ladies hand.

I am concerned about Duke Maxwell.... and his previous fate.

[Lissa Hawley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even better than the first. Absolutely craving more.

[Mella · Rating 4 out of 5]

Renee de la Croix died penniless and alone and full of regrets for the way she lived her life - only to wake up as her eleven year old self with a chance to fix things. So she eschews romance and conventional lady concerns and decides to build a cosmetic business and become a billionaire.

In the second installment, Renee is hard at work on her beauty empire, having roped in parents to ignore her little hobby, the Queen to fund it and her maids to run errands for it. She'd be set if all these little obstacles could stop making their way into her path. But it's okay because Renee is determined to succeed and nothing will stop her from making it.

Like the first book, this one had me hooked. I was fully invested in Renee and her journey to be a billionaire. I loved her no nonsense approach to her setbacks and her inner playfulness which makes more of an appearance in this one. I would've liked to see more of Flossie with Renee but it was enjoyable nonetheless. Even Montfort and Kylian are growing on me, although I rather like Renee's lack of interest in romance in her second life.

A fun and lively historical low fantasy mashup with a robust and entertaining lead character. 4 stars.

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real rating 4.5 stars

Ok, look. This book was even better than the first.

Renee's cosmetics empire is thriving... until a little bit of sabotage might ruin everything.
When Renee releases a new hand cream, she tries to get it more fame by gifting a jar to a visiting foreign princess.
But the gifting doesn't go as planned, and the princess ends up with some more...dragon-like qualities.
Renee's reputation is ruined.
And if she doesn't work fast, her cosmetics empire might be doomed.

Content

Violence: No violence.
Romance: No romance.
Language: An occasional use of 'damn.'

This book is entirely clean and appropriate for all ages.

[janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic 11 year old making mooah light novel

The main character is fantastic. A bit hard to imagine a pretty 11 year old already making money, dealing with business and public relations issues without a pimple or hormones (she must have dealt with the with her first go around.) Not so much with her previous life in the book, but much more action! Love the love triangles, romances (and those imagined) and the best of all, friendship. Can't wait for Book 3!!

[Lorraine Berry · Rating 3 out of 5]

The reincarnation/do-over continues as Renee starts to build her beauty business empire. There are setbacks along the way and what appears to be the start of a love triangle between the Duke of Montfort and Prince Kylian. As per book 1, this is an entertaining, quick and easy read, although as per book 1, it also ends abruptly.

[Adena Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming, fun and full of interesting little catastrophes - this novel does a lovely job of describing the trials and tribulations of a young entrepreneur dealing with society, legalities and suppliers, while making the commercial realities seem light-hearted and funny. I have to recommend this to fans of Vanessa Rhowen, who also writes of a villainess redeemed. Such fun!

[Nic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hexes and Hand Creams

This was another super cute story. I love how the world is starting to expand and the characters are starting to grow. My heart goes out to Flossie! I have so many ships so fingers crossed that they happen! I can’t wait to see what else is going to happen.

No spice
1 use of mild explicit language
G Rated violence/gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️another fun story

[Roberto Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything you liked about book one continues.

This is a simple review. All the things that I liked before are still present. This is just a continuation of what is working.

[Adena Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this under its original name, and I have to say that it is charming, fun and full of interesting little catastrophes. This novel does a lovely job of describing the trials and tribulations of a young entrepreneur dealing with society, legalities and suppliers, while making the commercial realities seem light-hearted and funny. I have to recommend this to fans of Vanessa Rhowen, who also writes of a villainess redeemed. Such fun!

[Melissa Jurica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Renee is trying to get more customers but has to deal with someone trying to sabotage her along the way. She continues to show personal growth and development, and the book is fun to read