Mary's Story: Pride & Prejudice & Potions

Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions #3

by J. Ann Curtis

A spectral cat, a murder, and feelings for a werewolf? Mary Bennet’s life is about to get complicated.

Mary Bennet, always the bookish sister, has built a cozy life for herself in Austen Heights with books as her companions. To avoid her mother’s incessant lectures on marriage at the family bakery, Mary hides in the basement of the local church studying ancient religious texts. As a half-fae, half-witch, Mary has long accepted her fae heritage, but she shuns witchcraft at all costs. That is, until a snarky ghost forces Mary to face her powers and solve the ghost’s murder.

As if that isn’t enough, Mary also finds herself thrown into the path of Frank Churchill, the man she has crushed on from afar since childhood. But she soon finds that Frank has a dangerous secret—he’s a werewolf, which makes him suspect number one in the search for the killer.

With a feisty ghost cat at her heels and gossip swirling around town, Mary must make out work with Frank to clear his name. Unraveling a murder and dealing with her budding emotions won’t be easy, but Mary Bennet is done hiding in the shadows.

Pride and Prejudice and Potions is a collection of modern standalone cozy mysteries that retell the greatest love story of all time while revealing the secrets lurking underneath. Across twelve enchanting tales of entangled hearts, learn the stories that were never told and get to know these beloved characters like never before. Even Jane Austen couldn't have predicted this season of scandal and sorcery.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal

312 pages, Paperback

Published October 13, 2025

About the author

J. Ann Curtis is an award-winning author who has been making stories up in her head for as long as she can remember. Her YA Fantasy debut novel, Lies of the Haven, won best YA Fiction in the state of Nevada through the Indie Authors Project.

When she is not writing, she is reading, spending time with her husband and two amazing daughters.

To learn more about J. Ann Curtis and her writing, You can also check out her website at www.jacurtisbooks.com

Reviews

[Aakanksha · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was sooo fun to read Mary's story.

In the magical world of Austen Heights, bookish Mary Bennet has successfully kept her head down, and her magical heritage a secret. A half-fae who shuns her witch powers, she only seeks refuge from her mother's marital lectures in the quiet solitude of ancient texts.
She was so good and relatable and now she's my favourite in this series and it's so amazing how this series gets better with each sequel.
But her life shatters when a murder, a demanding ghost, and a spectral cat force her to confront her true abilities.

To make matters worse, she finds herself reluctantly partnered with Frank Churchill, her lifelong crush. But he has a secret; that he is a werewolf which immediately makes him the town's prime murder suspect.

I loved reading how Mary's mind worked through the problems and she made her way to prove Frank's innocence. Their romance was so cute and I really loved seeing them together. It was really heartwarming.
And it was so beautiful to read how Mary's character grew, she was done hiding in the shadows, and was ready to explore her emotions and capabilities.

It's a perfect read for fall season and for those who love cosy mysteries.


Thank you so much to the author for the ARC!

[Laura Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

PRIDE & PREJUDICE & POTIONS
MARYS STORY
BY J. ANN CURTIS.
Release day set for the 14th of October 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
This series is epic and I'm loving every single second of this magical journey 🎃
J. Ann Curtis has truly brought Mary's story to life.
Such a cozy, fall read and I really can't wait for the next book to land on my kindle.
Amazing and brilliant.

[Kaitlyn Craft · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an advanced reader copy from the author and I’m going to give an honest review with minimal spoilers. So this one took me a minute to get into the first couple chapters are a little slower and I had to both think of this in regard to Pride and Prejudice without being that novel. Once I was able to distinguish the two I started really enjoying the book because Mary was the sister I felt didn’t get enough recognition in the original tale and I wished there were more information about her. So the book is a modern retelling with a hint of magic accompanied by a murder mystery. Mary truly came out of her shell once she discovered she was a medium and that she truly wanted to help not only Isabelle but also her sister Lydia and her friend turned love interest Frank. I’m not going to reveal any dire details but this story did hook me and kept me reading because I had to know who did it. Also the author completely surprised me by who actually committed the crime. Definitely a book that if you are a fan of Pride and Prejudice and love a little bit of spooky season thrown in you should definitely check out. Thank you to the author for allowing me to be one of the ARC readers.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved that this part of the original timeline (Mary's infamous piano playing at Bingley's ball) was in her POV. I also loved seeing how she uses her fae magic and overhears so many different conversations because she's so easily overlooked.

The mystery of this one felt a lot more twisty than the others so far, with so many people involved in small pieces as Mary tried to follow the threads to the end.

I am also super excited for Kitty's story next (I would argue that she is the most overlooked Bennet sister), and to see how the next part of the original storyline works out!

[Shiloah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice with all kinds of interesting extras. Great for a younger audience because the language is modern too. If you’re an Austen purist, prepare yourself for an unusual take on this classic.

It was fun to do a read through as a review given to me by ARC.

[Rissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you J for the advanced copy of Mary's Story 🧡🖤
genre: Cozy paranormal romance
rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
spice: 🌶️

tropes:
*Pride & Prejudice retelling
*Supernatural beings & magic (witches, fae, etc.)
*Fall vibes
*Murder mystery
*Childhood friends > Strangers > Lovers
*Half-fae/Half-witch x High fae & ... 👀


my thoughts:
✨ Another Spellbinding Five-Star Read from the Pride & Prejudice & Potions Series! ✨

I’ve said it before and I’ll happily say it again under a crescent moon — I adore anything related to Austen. Books, adaptations, even Pride, Prejudice, and Zombies (a shock to myself). And this third installment of the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series has me utterly bewitched.
This time, the spotlight turns to Mary — her story brimming with ghostly intrigue, quiet power, and a touch of dark enchantment. Wickham and Mr. Collins step into larger roles here in this installment, adding delightful layers of tension and mystery. The Netherfield ball scene, where Mary takes her place at the piano, absolutely sparkles — J.A. twists the moment just enough to make it feel fresh, magical, and a little dangerous. Brexton and Frank, the new handsome arrivals, are wonderful additions who deepen the plot and atmosphere. I especially loved the Bennet sisters relationships as well as the scene where Lizzy and Darcy face off at the Netherfield ball — a moment that still gives me chills, no matter the version.

As with the earlier books, Mary finds herself having to solve a murder mystery that kept me guessing until the final page. When the truth finally revealed itself, I was completely shocked. I won’t spoil it for you — you’ll just have to experience the surprise yourself.

If I could adjust one small detail, it would be the way Wickham’s introduction was handled — it felt as though he appeared out of thin air without proper setup. But truly, that’s a minor quibble in a story so beautifully crafted.

So brew yourself a cup of something warm, light a candle, and lose yourself in this bewitching twist on Austen’s world. It’s the perfect read for autumn nights when the veil between romance and mystery feels deliciously thin. 🍂✨📖

[Lucidlyreads_TV · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have only gotten the chance to read both Lizzy’s story and Mary’s, and I will have to say that Mary’s story so far is my absolute favorite. She felt extremely relatable, and her love story with Frank was by far the cutest I’ve read this year. They have the special kind of love that is both beautiful and captivating.
The mystery within this story was also my favorite. I wasn’t expecting the end when you find out who the true culprit is. I didn’t expect that ending, but it was super satisfying.
The whole story felt well paced between the mystery, Mary getting comfortable not only with her new discovered magic, but also her witch side, and the love story was perfectly done. It felt like a well rounded story that didn’t leave any unanswered questions.
This series is definitely the perfect series to get into during the fall if you’re looking for something that has both fluff, no spice whatsoever, and a captivating mystery.

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cosy murder mystery with Mary Bennet at the centre of the investigation. It was nice to see her personality shine, and her confidence grow. She learns she has medium abilities and can talk to spirits, so she puts her gifts to use to help solve the recent murder of Isabella, with a ghost cat as her companion. She discovers a secret network of illegal potions, her sisters suspicious behaviour, and that werewolves are closer to home than she thought.
I enjoyed seeing a different side to Mary's character, her bravery and protectiveness, and her sweet developing romance with Frank. Mary is often seen at the forgettable shy sister, but here you get to see her curious mind and desire to help others.
I love how it captures the spirit of Pride and Prejudice and uses key events with a refreshing modern twist.
This was a fun spooky mystery

[Josie Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Knowledge is one of the few things worth pursuing in life.” She huffed. “Only if you don’t know any men.” 💕

I had such a great time with Pride & Prejudice & Potions: Mary’s Story!  This novella was such a clever twist on a classic and I loved how it gave Mary her own spotlight.  It’s part of a wider series written by different authors, which I’ve been really enjoying and this one has made me want to pick up more from J Ann Curtis straight away.

For a cosy mystery, it had so much more bite than I expected.  There were genuine twists that caught me off guard and moments where my jaw literally dropped.  I love when a story keeps me on my toes and this one did exactly that while still feeling fun and comforting.  It balanced the regency feel with a dash of magic beautifully and the potion-making and witchy elements gave it that whimsical edge I adore.

Mary’s character growth was another highlight.  Seeing her step out of the shadow of her sisters, trust her instincts, and embrace her role in the magical mayhem was really satisfying.  It felt like she finally got the chance to shine.

I devoured this in one sitting and enjoyed every minute — a cosy, clever and magical read!

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can honestly say, this is my first time reading this type of book. And I absolutely loved it. This book was wonderful. Mary just seems to be a wallflower to those around her. but she's genuinely a lovely person that solves murders nonetheless! and since she's so overlooked, she hears her fair share of convos.
I can't say I blame the girl for her attraction to Mr. Werewolf. He sounds like quite the handsome guy, even if he does dark art a full moon lol.
Anyway. I was totally enthralled by this story. it was a real enjoyment to read.

[Irma Villaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was probably my favorite out of the series. I loved learning more about Mary and why is she is the way she is. I sympathize with her because I am also known as the quiet and reserved sister in my siblings. Plus I do love books as she does. I liked going through her adventure of discovering she is a medium, plus the ghost cat who doesnt love that! The romance and ending was great I'm happy she got her happily ever after even though she had to make a hard decision within her family.

[Belinda Clemons · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved Mary's story. she is very relatable to me because im the quiet one in the family and im also an avid reader. I also liked seeing how she became who she is because I was always curious about her in the OG P&P book

[Lavender Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thoroughly absorbing story with excellent worldbuilding, adorable characters, and a twisty mystery. A fun read with a good dose of suspense and a lovely romance.

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own..

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A modern day Pride and Prejudice variation situated in Austen Heights, Maine, where the Bennet daughters are half Witch and half fae. Isabella Ravenswood has been murdered and wants Mary, who turns out to also be a medium, to find her killer. Is it werewolf Frank Churchill, Mary's crush.
An entertaining and well-written variation with its likeable characters.

[Jocelyn Reddoch · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️

YAY finally we get Mary’s POV! I love her as a character so much, our personalities are very similar and she’s kinda like my spirit animal haha!
I love the ability to communicate with the dead, it was super unexpected and really made this whole story that much more interesting (plus having a ghost cat is SO COOL?!)

This story is such a cute and cozy mystery that follows the same vibes as the previous stories, literally the PERFECT series for fall!! I truly love being able to see snippets of past characters and how they are doing, it makes me feel like I’m there with them!

Mary is definitely one of my favorite characters so far and I can’t wait to see more POVs from this series🫶🏼

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another of the books in this delightful series is now completed, and I thoroughly enjoyed Mary's story. Let's dive right in to the details, shall we?

POV: First person
POV Character(s): Mary Bennet
Verb Tense: Past
Trigger Warnings: None
Spice Level: Low, kisses only

This is book 3 in the interconnected series of stories set in Austen Heights, Maine, a town where magic is well-known to the locals, but once the "unmarked" (read: non-magical) humans leave town, they forget the existence of magic altogether. Austen Heights is home to an assortment of different characters, including the half-fae, half-witch Bennet sisters and their parents, and in this series, we've been meeting everyone from witches and fae to werewolves and shifters. The town itself gives cozy Gilmore Girls vibes with everything close by and quaint shops where the locals trade gossip.

This particular book features Mary Bennet, the middle sister who's always somewhere on the outs with her family. Mary wasn't asked to move out with her two older sisters Jane and Lizzy when they got an apartment together; neither is she invited to hang out with her younger sisters Kitty and Lydia. Her mother finds Mary's love of books and devotion to the church a bit dusty and dry when she's busy scheming to marry her daughters off and keep the family afloat while their father lies dying of the dreaded fae disease "moonrot." And so we meet the middlest of middle children, the one who goes unnoticed and unappreciated and the one who's taken her own road in a family where she doesn't feel she belongs.

I quite liked Mary's character and probably relate to her best of the three POV characters I've read about so far. She's got this lovely sense of humor about her, and you get the impression she likes to fade into the background so no one will ask her difficult questions. Her fae power, in fact, is one where she can fade from people's notice so long as they aren't looking directly at her when she activates her power. (Rather handy, that! I wish I had that ability.)

In this story, Mary has watched as all sorts of odd events have unfolded in Austen Heights with the coming of the Bingley family, and she's mostly stayed to herself, content in her internship with the church while she reads and mostly avoids her mother's matrimonial machinations as much as possible. She's hoping to finish her degree so she can find some sort of job to keep herself afloat and not be a burden on her parents, but she thinks finding a job in the niche interests of history and religion she's cultivated will likely take her away from the cozy Austen Heights, a prospect she isn't very excited about.

I loved the addition of the church notes in this book. The previous books made mention of the Bennets attending church, but this book really gave us a look at what "church" looks like in this world, and I loved how unique the take was. Instead of being a slam on religion, the authors have created a religion where the fae have their own set of sacred texts they adhere to, and the church in Austen Heights is shared between the Unmarked human congregation and their pastor and the Marked fae congregation. I found that a fun touch and really liked that Mary was studying the fae sacred texts despite being generally viewed as lesser-than and potentially dark due to her witch side.

The story follows Mary as she tries to uncover the killer of a fae girl who appears to have been bitten by a werewolf during the last full moon. Mary stumbles upon information that not only links her family to the dead girl but also links her childhood crush to her and could potentially ruin his life.

Frank Churchill is a fae man known around town for being a bit of a player, or so Kitty says. But to Mary, he's the boy she went hunting a lost cat with and eventually fell for as she watched him over the years. When the investigation into the dead girl turns up a fact that puts Frank's freedom in jeopardy, Mary commits herself to finding the killer.

It doesn't hurt that she finds out she's a medium in the most comical fashion imaginable.

This was yet another delightful read. The full-circle of the murder mystery followed with the explosive reveal that I actually didn't see coming this time was just a great October read. There's a ghost girl and ghost cat, a doting man who's not afraid to say he likes Mary, and a bake off. What's not to love?

I'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series, and I'm grateful for the chance to ARC this book! These are my opinions given freely, and I truly did love this story.

[Ann M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pride & Prejudice & Potions: Mary’s Story by J. Ann Curtis is the 3rd book of the multi-author modern standalone cozy mystery series Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions. It is a cozy small town mystery with light fantasy elements.

Mary Bennet has always preferred books to people. Living in the quirky town of Austen Heights, she spends most of her time hiding out in the church basement, avoiding her matchmaking mother and studying ancient texts. As a half-fae, half-witch, she’s made peace with her magical side - well, the fae half, anyway. Witchcraft – not so much. But when a ghost barges into her life demanding justice - and won’t take no for an answer - Mary is pulled into a mystery she never asked for. Things get even trickier when Frank Churchill, her childhood crush (and, inconveniently, a werewolf), ends up as the prime suspect. With a sassy ghost cat in tow and gossip spreading like wildfire, Mary has to team up with Frank to clear his name and solve the case.

If you’ve ever felt like the “quiet middle sibling” - the one who (literally) fades into the background while flashier sisters take center stage - then Mary Bennet’s turn in the spotlight is a welcome change. In this modern, small-town fantasy reinterpretation, Mary is no longer just the studious, awkward sister. She becomes a medium, an investigator, and a heroine in her own right, her growth satisfying and well handled. She evolves from overlooked and self-conscious to someone who steps into her magical - and personal - power. Mary’s voice is thoughtful, quietly brave, and deeply relatable: bookish, reserved, but capable of far more than others expect. In this version, she’s part witch, part fae, and has the rare ability to see and communicate with ghosts. As in the previous books, the town of Austen Heights continues to charm - modern yet laced with magical undercurrents. It blends small-town coziness with supernatural elements (witches, fae, werewolves, ghost cats, potions) to create a setting that feels both whimsical and grounded. The mystery at the heart of the story is engaging: a murdered fae girl, suspicion falling on Mary’s long-time crush Frank Churchill (who also happens to be a werewolf), and a tangled web of potions, secrets, and magical politics. The investigation is well-paced, and the stakes feel personal. The romance subplot between Mary and Frank is sweet and understated. Their dynamic has history, tension, and mutual respect - enough to warm your heart without overshadowing the mystery. As the series expands, so does the world-building. With fae courts, witches, werewolves, and a "marked vs unmarked" magical hierarchy, the mythology is rich - though occasionally underdeveloped. Some story threads move quickly, and a few explanations or relationships could benefit from more depth. Because this is the 3rd book, there are a few references to previous events and characters that might feel like passing comments if you haven’t read the earlier books. It’s not essential to read them first, but it does add extra layers of enjoyment if you do. For fans of Austen, there are affectionate nods to the original characters and threads - yet the story stands on its own even if you haven’t read original. The author’s writing style is smooth and easy to follow, making it a great pick when you want something entertaining without being too heavy. If you’re looking for a slow-burn romance or a deeply forensic mystery, this may feel more gentle and atmospheric. But if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a magical twist, engaging characters, and a heroine stepping into her strength, this will likely hit the spot.

Overall, it is a charming blend of cozy mystery, light fantasy, and Austen-inspired magic. It gives Mary Bennet the attention she’s long deserved and wraps her in a world full of heart. A perfect read for a crisp autumn evening - with a touch of mystery, a spark of romance, and a heroine learning to shine.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michaela | bumblebeeslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pride and Prejudice and Potions: Mary's story

Mary is my kindred spirit character, she prefers solitude to crowds, enjoys reading, enjoys hiding in her work in the church basement where she can read and study old texts (not that I get to do this in my job, but it would be such fun work), has a ghost cat friend, and a crush on a werewolf. I love Mary's ability, which allows her to see ghosts. While she has tried to ignore this ability in her past, current events have forced it upon her to help solve yet another mysterious death in Austen Heights. All fingers point to Isabella having been bitten by a werewolf. Werewolves and vampires are not just shunned, but actually illegal in this society. Not all people agree with this and seek to help the creatures with potions for bloodlust, and ones that prevent werewolves from turning on the full moon.

Unfortunately Mary discovers that her long time crush Frank Churchill, happens to be a werewolf, and the main suspect in this murder case. Mary makes it her mission to prove that Frank was not the culprit, by investigating and uncovering all the possible werewolves within the town. With her trusty ghost cat ever present, Mary discovers the truth behind the murder, as unexpected for the readers as it is for Mary.

This story is such a cozy mystery, with major fall vibes!! I love the ghost cat, I love that even through Frank is an illegal werewolf, Mary doesn't bat an eye, her crush as strong as ever, even willing to make a potion for him when she is not that great at potions. Working together to solve the crime allows Frank and Mary to get close to each other as well. I also enjoyed the little snippet of Lizzy and Darcy still having their arguments, and seeming to highly dislike each other. And the ever present Jane and Charles potential relationship!

I look forward to the next mystery in Austen Heights!

Some fav Quotes:
"Kitty and I also grabbed our coats and followed her into the crisp fall morning. The trees were afire with oranges, reds, and golds. Carved pumpkins, ornaments of black cats, and outlines of witches dotted people's yards and doorsteps."

"Perhaps I needed to go to the morgue. An icy shard slid down my spine. I may enjoy this sacred ground, but even I had my limit."

"My ghost cat also sauntered down the street with our group like she was a part of the family. She'd followed me home from the cemetery and since then had gone wherever I had, as if she was my special companion."

"I couldn't believe a couple of minutes ago I was kissing Frank Churchill, the man I'd had a crush on since I was in pigtails, and now we were breaking into a shop together."

"It seemed like the obvious progression of a relationship. Kiss a boy, then break the law with him."

"Frank leaned against the side of the chapel, his arms folded. He wore his long pea coat with a turned-up collar, giving him a decidedly Edward Cullen appearance. Hex, he looked handsome."

""I'll await your message like a man starved of sunlight. And not only because my life is in your hands.""

"He eyed me. "I see you, Mary Bennet. You act like this prim, proper, play-by-the-book person, but under that outward exterior is a rebel." I gave a shy smile. "I'm afraid you bring out the worst in me. Or the best, depending on your point of view.""

Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!

[The Book Nerd's Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in a modern retelling of "Pride and Prejudice" features Mary Bennet, the bookish middle sibling.

Mary Bennet is fine with having books as her only friends. She has little interest in marriage, so she hides out in the basement of her local church studying religious texts during her internship. Unlike the rest of her family, Mary tends to avoid witchcraft. That is, until the ghost of a recently deceased young woman appears and demands that Mary help solve her murder. Now, Mary must team up with her childhood crush, Frank Churchill to unravel the case before more people are hurt.

I enjoyed this addition to the "Pride & Prejudice & Potions" collection immensely. I can relate quite a bit to Mary's antisocial nature and her desire to hide away and read all day. Despite her aversion to people, she is more than willing to help others out when they are in need, which is admirable.

I think Frank was such a sweet love interest. I mean, who doesn't love a werewolf boyfriend who is protective of his girl in a cute non possessive way? Frank has gone through some serious stuff in his past relationships, so I'm glad that he's finally with someone as caring and understanding as Mary. Also, the fact that Mary has been crushing on him since high school is pretty wholesome.

The murder mystery element of this one was pretty great actually. Pretty early on we learn that the Isabella's murder has something to do with a creature of the night, specifically a vampire or a werewolf. I had several theories for what in the world happened and I'm not ashamed to admit that I was completely wrong on all accounts. The shock factor was rock solid in this one, and I'm curious to see how the murderer's identity affects the next books in this series.

This installment has such fun autumnal/Halloween vibes. There's a cozy bake-off, a romantic cart ride through a cornfield, and a costume party. The entire novel was also slathered with minor references to the holiday, such as the Bennet's store being filled with treats decorated as ghosts, witches, and the like. This was a great one to read just days after Halloween, that's for sure.

Another thing I thought was neat about this one is Mary's unique fae gift. Mary is a medium, which allows her to talk to ghosts and means she acts as a bridge between the living and the dead. This was quite a major gift compared to Caroline's ability to glamour, and I appreciate how important it is to the actual plot line. And plus, it meant that Mary had a spectral cat following her around, which was entertaining.

Overall, I really enjoyed my time with "Mary's Story." I feel that the romance between Mary and Frank was super sweet, and I found myself eating up their interactions. The murder mystery in this one has been the least predictable in the series thus far, which was certainly a boon. It's Kitty's turn next book, and she seems like such a cool character, so I'm really looking forward to diving into book four as soon as possible!

[my.selected.stories · Rating 4 out of 5]

[4/5] ⭐️ Mary’s Magical Moment

ARC Review – Thank you for the opportunity to read this story early.

📖 Plot
Mary Bennet finally steps into the spotlight in Austen Heights. Between studying ancient fae texts and avoiding her mother’s constant marriage lectures, her quiet life is upended by a murder. A mischievous ghost and the suspicious Frank Churchill force Mary to confront her powers as a half-fae half-witch. Together they navigate supernatural mysteries, uncover secrets, and attempt to solve the case before it’s too late.

📖 Characters
Mary is thoughtful, intelligent, and quietly brave. Watching her embrace her magical abilities and trust her instincts was a highlight. Frank is charming, a bit broody, and gradually earns your trust along with Mary’s. Their chemistry is natural and easy to enjoy. Supporting characters including the ghost and town locals add humor, warmth, and a sense of community.

📖 Worldbuilding & Setting
Austen Heights feels alive and magical with its cozy streets, fall festivities, and whimsical supernatural touches. The blend of contemporary life, witchcraft, fae heritage, and a hint of mystery creates a fully immersive setting that feels both comforting and intriguing.

📖 Writing Style
The narrative flows effortlessly with humor, tension, and small magical surprises. The mix of cozy mystery, supernatural elements, and character-driven moments makes this story a fun and quick read perfect for a cozy autumn afternoon.

📖 Recommendation
If you enjoy magical cozy mysteries, clever heroines, and charming twists on classic Austen characters, this is a delightful addition to the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series. A solid four stars for a story that blends mystery magic and heartfelt moments.

I received a digital ARC of 'Pride & Prejudice & Potions: Mary’s Story' by J. Ann Curtis in exchange for an honest review.

[Claire Smith-Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for my gifted ARC, here is my honest review. I give this a 4.5 stars

I was a little hesitant since I love my classic pride and prejudice but thankfully this book delivers and I loved the witchy, fantasy twist with fall/Halloween vibes.

Set in Austen Heights each of these books follows a different character from P&P, they are best read in order but saying that I read this as my first one and was able to pick things up quickly.

The writing style is modern but cleverly weaves in very classic lines from the original without them seeming out of place. Mary isn't a character that is given much time in the original so it was nice for her to get the limelight and have her own story told. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about her and I'm very envious of her fae power!

The books also take in the whole breadth of characters available within Jane Austen's literary world and we find the likes of Mrs Bates, Frank Churchill, the Dashwoods and Steele sisters mingling with the P&P regulars. I really liked that aspect of it as it gives so many different directions that the stories can progress within.

This story specifically follows the bookish Mary, a half fae, half witch who studies ancient Fae texts on an internship. A local murder pushes Mary to begin investigating, when her life is turned upside down and a ghost seeks out her help unexpectedly and everything points to her long time crush being the probable murderer. Can she clear his name, accept her witch side and come to terms with her ability to see ghosts in time to make a difference.

I had great fun reading this and I'm going to go back and read the first books now before eagerly awaiting the next installment.

[Beth DeLong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed this book! Since the last book I read was Of Spindles and Nightfall by J. Ann Curtis, which is quite dark and spicy, it was a fun twist to then read something by her that's charming and cozy. 😊

This book definitely packs the cozy fall vibes! Small town, mystery, apple cider, crunching leaves -- it's perfect for wrapping up in a blanket in a big chair and reading. And since it's a fairly quick read at 3-5 hours, it's even more suited for a perfect date night at home!

I really enjoyed the characters in this book, and now I want to go read the rest of the series. I love our studious yet quietly rebellious Mary; Kitty is a dear; Lydia is spunky, as expected; Frank is charming, yet vulnerable; and Brexton seems to be the quiet voice of reason. And of course we get our Pride & Prejudice vibes coming through. I love to see how different authors take adaptations and make them their own while still remaining true to the characters.

Really enjoyed this sweet, cozy, funny, entertaining read! Thanks to the author for the chance to be an ARC reader!

⚠️ No cursing
🫑 Sweet kisses only

[Nita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Pride and Prejudice & Potions: Mary's Story is such a fun and fresh take on the original. I was so happy to see Mary finally get her own story! She's often overlooked , but here, she truly shines!

Mary's character was so relatable — quiet, awkward, smart and some times misunderstood . Super observant and a love for books. I felt connected to her from the very beginning!

I really enjoyed the romance between Mary and Frank. A slowly built romance that was just so sweet! And it’s the kind of romance that makes your heart ache in the best way!

I also liked seeing more of and getting to know more about Lydia, Kitty and even Lizzy, but from Mary's point of view. It was an insight into their relationships with one another that I absolutely loved!

Oh and we definitely can’t forget the murder mystery aspect of this story, which I truly enjoyed! The twist and turns kept me hooked and constantly guessing! I also loved Mary being a medium! How cool is that??? And a ghost cat as a companion??? I about died with envy!

I loved it all! And with a mix of potion making and magic……….this book is absolute perfection! Highly recommend!

[Kinjal Patel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy, magical and eerie


Mary Bennet finally steps out of the shadows — and I loved every bit of her journey.
This book reimagines that unforgettable piano scene from Pride & Prejudice, but this time through Mary’s quiet, sharp eyes. She’s not simply playing in the background anymore; she’s watching, listening, and weaving her fae-touched magic through the world around her.
With a ghost cat at her side and a growing connection with the kindhearted Frank, she learns that being overlooked has its advantages . She hears and sees what others miss.
What made this one stand out for me was how twisty and layered the mystery felt. Each clue led to another tangled thread —, potions, secret dealings, even hints of werewolves , and it all came together so cleverly.
Watching Mary find her confidence, trust her intuition, and fight for what’s right felt so rewarding and I related so much to her. She’s still thoughtful and reserved, but now she burns quietly with purpose.
It’s cozy, magical, and just a little eerie . The perfect autumn read for anyone who loves their Austen with a dash of witchcraft .

[Heather C. Rafnel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary, Mary, quite contrary... ?

Mary's Story is a fun, modern take on one of our favorite (or maybe not favorite) characters from the world of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

It is a cozy Fall/Halloween read that includes tie-in scenes from the classic tale, while still giving us fresh, new material to read.
It is a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. After all, Mary certainly has some tricks up her sleeve.

This story features witches, werewolves, vampires, and a very special type of shifter.

Though this book is part of a series, this is the first one I have read in that series. There were a few things mentioned that I was like, "Hmm... ah, that must be from a previous story," but nothing that caused issues with this story. You can certainly read it as a standalone.

This is one of the first books I have read in a long time that I had FUN reading, trying to solve the mystery right alongside Mary.

J. Ann Curtis likes to keep you puzzled until the big reveal!
Though I haven't read the previous books, after reading this one, they are ALL on my TBR now!

[TC Rittenhouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for my gifted eARC. My opinions are my own.

Mary isn't really interested in the potion side of being a witch, she much rather study the ancient texts during her internship with the church. But when a high fae is murdered, she winds up communing with the ghost of the murdered fae. And her childhood crush shows back up in town.

I think this was one of the characters that I was looking forward to the most because her source material character was the much maligned middle sister who is ostracized because she doesn't fit the standard mold. I really enjoyed the adjustments to her character, giving her a voice and a power that both fits her character and interests. I am intrigued to see who she ends up with in the end, because I have some thoughts about the childhood crush. I think the authors blending multiple Jane Austen books creates a really fun sandbox to play in.

Highly recommend

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary is a studious half-fay, half-witch who learns she is a medium during one of her many graveyard visits. She decides to solve the murder to prove the innocence of her sister and crush, Frank Churchill. The studious sort who would rather read than interact with society will have her hands full of interaction to solve the case. She might even end up with a love interest or two by the end. Can she prove her love interest innocent or will she implicate her family instead?

A lovely, cozy, and quirky mystery with a lovable ghost cat. A wonderful twist on Jane Austen with mystery, modern conveniences and a touch of romance. Loved getting a view into Mary and her fading away from view when she didn’t want to be noticed and then banging out tunes on a piano to save her crush from disgrace. A perfect blend of fun characters and page turning who done it.

[Diamanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello, people!
Beginning I have to say that this book is the third book in the Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions series.
I wonder if I have to say again that I adore anything related to Austen. I'll do it over and over again. I'm a big fan of her writing. The combination of Jane Austen characters' book and mystery is so exciting and enjoyable.
Now, it's time for Mary, who must solve a murder mystery. Additional, she is quite protectiveness and that's enough for me. This book entered my heart. I also loved the cozy vibe and the writing of author, which is so adorable, mysterious and subversive. It was such a hard for me to solve the case.
Every new book convinces me that it is one of the best series I have read so far.

Thank you to the author and @lauramdrakebooks for the eARC!
This is my honest review!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Autumn Leaves and Witches Please!

Book three of the Pride and Prejudice and Potions series follows the sweetest Bennett sister, Mary.
A young girls murder in Austen Heights finds Mary being quite contrary to her usual quiet, studious self when she races to uncover the identity of the suspect. Working against a town that believes witches, werewolves and vampires are wicked, Mary works to use her magic powers for good and along the way finds a new hidden gift, a cute cat and hot boyfriend.

Side note: Loved the acceptance in this book:

“I’m a witch, Mom, as are you. And we shouldn’t need to change who we are to be accepted. It’s those who regard us as lesser who must change.”

Pride & Prejudice & Potions: Mary’s Story is book three in the Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries Series and is available now on Kindle Unlimited!

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Mary's story in the Pride and Prejudice and Potions series, and if you are someone who loves and enjoys cozy mystery novels, then you're not going to want to miss out on this one.
I've not read the previous books in the series, but they are definitely going on my list to grab when I can. Mary's story is so engaging and I could absolutely relate to her as a character. She's interesting and is more likely to be alone with a book than trying to engage with other people. LOL
She has good character development throughout the story as she is confronted with a mystery that she feels the need to pursue but along the way? The man she has a crush on becomes suspect number one. This of course goes to ramp up the drama as she tries to resist her feelings and keep his secret at the same time. This book is so much fun to read and you're not going to want to miss out.