Kitty's Story: Pride & Prejudice & Potions

Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions #4

by Laura M. Drake

She’s under suspicion. He’s under a spell. And her ex is six feet under.

When Kitty slips a potion-laced Halloween cookie to her ex hoping for answers, she never expects him to wind up dead—or to find herself at the center of a scandal. With her reputation in tatters and the town gossips circling like crows, her only ally is Riley, a maddeningly charming reporter with secrets of his own who’s determined to crack the case.

But when Riley takes a love potion to prove Kitty’s innocence, her life gets even more complicated. As she and Riley hunt for clues, carve pumpkins, and chase down suspects at a haunted abbey, Kitty finds herself falling for a man whose feelings may not be his own.

With every clue bringing her closer to the truth and to danger, Kitty must trust her magic, her instincts, and even her heart if she hopes to unearth the deadly secrets lurking in Austen Heights.

Genres: Retellings

270 pages, Paperback

Published October 25, 2025

About the author

My name is Laura M. Drake, and I'm the youngest of five kids. I grew up in Arkansas and moved to Utah to attend Brigham Young University. After spending three summers abroad in France, Japan, and China, I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and began teaching 4th grade near Salt Lake City. A few years later I moved back to Japan to fulfill a life-long dream of living there. When Covid got bad, I came back to America and have been living in Arkansas and writing full-time ever since. I'll soon be moving to UT and look forward to the new adventures that await me there. When I'm not writing (which isn't very often--I should probably get a life haha) I love playing ultimate frisbee, board games, writing in my journal, and spending time with friends and family.

Reviews

[Josie Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A dragon shifter in a witch’s shop. What on earth are you doing here?” “For the baked goods, of course. I’ve heard your sugar cookies are to die for.” 🍪

I’m really enjoying this whole Pride & Prejudice & Potions series, and Kitty’s Story was another fantastic addition!  I’ve read several of Laura M. Drake’s books now and her mix of charm, mystery and slow-burn romance never disappoints.  Kitty and Riley were such fun, layered characters — their chemistry was undeniable, but what I especially loved was that the romance didn’t take over the whole plot.  The real focus was the clever whodunit murder mystery, full of magical twists, witty banter and unexpected turns that kept me guessing until the end.

The worldbuilding in this magical Regency setting is just delightful — a perfect blend of Austen-inspired manners with witchy intrigue and supernatural touches.  The slow build between Kitty and Riley felt so natural and satisfying and I loved seeing Kitty grow into a strong, confident heroine.  Another enchanting, cozy mystery romance from an author I’ll always read 💕

✨ Tropes / Themes:
💞 Slow Burn Romance
🔮 Magical Mystery
👩‍❤️‍👨 Friends to Lovers
🪄 Witchy Vibes
👗 Regency Fantasy
🕵️‍♀️ Amateur Sleuth
🏡 Cozy Vibes
💪 Strong Female Lead
💀 Murder Mystery
🫖 Light Romance

[Aakanksha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is going so good and every cover serves as well.
It's such a cosy who dunn it mystery book full of magical twists and perfect for fall season. Kitty is such a strong lead and that's one of the best part of the story and it was so amazing to read how she navigates through the scandal and all the twists and turns.
The worldbuilding in this magical regency fantasy setting is just so good, and this whole series is a perfect blend of Austen-inspired storytelling with withcy themes. Kitty and Riley were so good, their witty banter were so fun to read.
And their slow burn romance?? Mesmerizing! and now they are in my list of favourite Friends to Lovers couples.


Thanks to the author for the ARC copy!

[Laura Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

PRIDE & PREJUDICE & POTIONS
KITTYS STORY
BY LAURA M DRAKE
Release day set for the 28th of October 2025.
5 ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨s.
The cover for this book is absolutely gorgeous and think it's so cute and pretty.

This whole series so far has been epic and loved this journey thoroughly.

Kitty's story is the perfect book to snuggle up under the covers in your Halloween pjs, light a 🎃 🕯 and have a warm drink.

♥ Kitty and Riley ♥
The perfect fall, cozy, murder mystery books.
Bring on the next one in the series ☺

[Rissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Laura for the advanced copy of Kitty's Story 🧡🖤

genre: Cozy paranormal romance
rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
spice: 🫑

📖abt this book
*Pride & Prejudice retelling
*Supernatural beings & magic (witches, fae, dragon-shifters, etc.)
*Halloween vibes
*She thinks she shmurdered her ex
*He falls first
*Half-fae/Half-witch x 🤭🤭🤭
*POC MMC

🏍️my thoughts:
Yet another 5 ⭐️ read from the Pride and Prejudice and Potions series. I don't think anyone understands how obsessed I am with this series. Kitty's story is at the point where Mr. Collins proposes to Lizzy, gets engaged with Charlotte, and Charles leaves Austen Heights. While I am sad we didn't get to experience the scene between Lizzy and Darcy where he asks her to dance at that last ball, the events of Kitty's story MORE than makes up for it.

From Kitty freaking out that she may have poisoned her ex, to Riley saving Kitty when she .. jk y'all will have to read on how he saves her😉

This book is a must read for this Halloween in the next few days, with mentions of "Monster Mash," Riley and Kitty wearing Jack and Sally costumes, and all of the cute confections with the Bennet witches Cozy Confections bakery. So brew your own moonlight maple chai (or your preferred fall drink), play your Halloween playlist, and cuddle up to this cozy read 🎃

This story is PERFECT for my fellow readers who love Austen and might have rewatched the movie and other adaptations a million times. Also perfect for this spooky season with witches, mystery, and more 👻 Join me in falling in love with Austen Heights and the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series that'll continue to be released for weeks (and maybe months (; ) to come!

[Jocelyn Reddoch · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75/5⭐️

OMG GUYS, this is my favorite of the series SO FAR!!
I loved kitty so so much, she’s so incredibly relatable, sweet, caring, brave and smart, I loved everything about her!

She poured her heart out into solving this murder and found parts of herself along the way that she had always pushed aside. Growing up she believed that her powers were silly and insignificant, but it actually turns out they are MUCH more important than she had ever imagined!

Anyways… RILEY MY MANNNNN😩😩 I completely and utterly fell in love with this man and how sweet and protective he is with kitty, he had my heart doing flips the whole time🥹

Please please read this one, I loved it and can’t recommend it enough for a short, sweet, and fun fall read🫶🏼

[Michaela | bumblebeeslibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty's story brings another mystery to Austen Heights, this time the stakes are high as the family is still dealing with their Mom's involvement in the previous murder.

Kitty is nervous that her potion making may have went awry when her ex ends up dead, after eating one of her truth serum laced cookies. She runs into Riley, Lizzy's co-worker, who gobbles down some of the cookies immediately to show Kitty it couldn't have been her. Kitty is not entirely convinced, so decides to work with Riley to uncover who the murderer was.

Kitty's story is another hit in this series! Kitty and Riley have such a great time together, but Kitty has to keep reminding herself that Riley may be under the influence of a potion. As Kitty and Riley track down clues, and Riley is able to use some of his reporter contacts, they think they have landed on the killer. Kitty intends to confront the suspect at the bonfire bash, but it all goes awry. I love the secret that Kitty uncovers about Riley, and how perfect they are for each other! I also enjoyed Riley's character, he brings a lot of amusement to the story.

And of course, all of the other Bennet sisters have things going on as part of the larger series, with Pastor Collins still in pursuit of Lizzy, Jane and Charles Bingley, Mary and Frank. I love how each story focuses on 1 character, but continues the storyline of everyone else we have read about so far.

Some Fav Quotes:
“Despite the many enchanted shops and buildings in Austen Height, the bookshop was a favorite of mine…”

“I flushed. So much for balancing the shelf. I’d made a mess of everything and embarrassed myself. And what was I doing smelling the guy who’d saved me.”

“Nothing could stay bad for too long when the smell of cinnamon hung in the air.”

"Riley tasted the way he smelled, like an autumn bonfire and a hint of coffee."

"I couldn't dwell on what might have been the best kiss of my life, or I'd just make myself sad it was fake."

"I melted against him, soaking in his warmth, his scent, the taste of coffee on his lips. His kiss was a wild collision of longing and worry that had been bottled up too long and exploded at the slightest touch of his lips on mine."

""I've heard your sugar cookies are to die for."" I gave him a dirty look. "Too soon?" "Just a smidge.""

I again look forward to reading the next story in the series!

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

[Tea_with_a_book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m loving these stories! Theyre such a wonderful pallette cleanser (depending on what you read). They’re short, sweet, well written, cohesive, and true to the integrity of the beloved characters of Jane Austen that we know and love. I love Kittys story! I love that she was her own person and that was her journey. Her romance was adorable and toe curling.

Another great story! I can’t wait to read the next one!

[Hannah Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be my favorite one in the series so far??? Maybe tied with the first one?? LOVE THEM

I absolutely ADORE Kitty. She is a strong female lead and the witty banter between her and Riley was perfection! I also really love how the author includes scenes from the original in her story as well. Always so fun!!

I really love Laura’s writing and story telling. It’s always a wonderful read and I truly see the world and what’s going on in it while reading about it!

I am seriously having so much fun with these works and you will too!

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved seeing Kitty's story, and getting to see her investigation skills. She's on the hunt for her ex-boyfriend's killer, and she's teamed up with local journalist Riley. He's also under the accidental influence of her love potion, and them working together is causing Kitty so many conflicting feelings.
With clues suggesting a mystery woman, rumours of arguments with a friend, and gossip spreading, there are plenty of suspects to investigate.
It's a cosy murder mystery, with potion making, Halloween parties, forced proximity, and a sweet building romance. I loved how the snippets of Pride & Prejudice are woven into the story, and add to the fantasy, chaos and adventure of Austin Heights.

[Diamanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,25⭐

Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the fourth book in the Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions series. This series has both excited and enchanted me. This is the second time I've read one of her books and I declare myself a fan.
The story fits perfectly with the Halloween season, as does the pumpkin-like cover. I hope I wasn't the only one who made this parallel in my mind.
Well, we have a cozy mystery murder and it is slowly becoming one of my favorite literary genres.
I really liked her world building, her well-crafted characters, the mystery that emerges and that Kitty is anxiously looking for a solution to, but also her writing, which is balanced, warm, sweet and enjoyable. In addition, the author managed to get me into the story from the first page.
Finally, I will say again that as a true Jane Austen fan, I love the series and admire its authors who always manage to perfectly portray the characteristics of the heroes of Pride and Prejudice.
I can't wait to read the next book.

Thanks to the author for the eARC!
This is my honest review!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book four of the Pride and Prejudice and Potions series follows Kitty Bennett. Known in Austen Heights for making the best potions in the Bennett family, Kitty is shocked when her ex-boyfriend is found ‘murdered by poison’.
Was it her potion? Was it her magic? Kitty teams up with the handsome and flirtatious, local reporter named Riley. Together they investigate murder, poison, magic and feelings. How could Kitty not fall for Riley with his hilarious quips and comebacks? If you don’t immediately fall in love with Riley you will by the time he, literally, swoops in to save the day - “wink wink”. How can a murder mystery be so sweet? Apparently, nothing can stay bad for too long when the smell of cinnamon is in the air.

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

[Lucidlyreads_TV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of all the characters I have read so far from this series, I felt like I could relate to Kitty more than the others. I liked how real she felt from her insecurities, her overthinking, her passion, her determination, and so much more. As the series continues, it felt as though the characters became more alive and more relatable.
Kitty seemed to grow as a person with Riley by her side. She seemed to get pulled into her own head at times with her worries and fears, but Riley helped push her through them and reassured in ways that was both refreshing and super cute. I loved their romance story a lot. It was beautiful how they complimented each other so well. They seemed to have “balanced” each other out perfectly. You’ll understand my horrible joke if you read this story.
Lastly, if the rest of my review didn’t convince you enough, I never would’ve guessed who the killer would’ve been in the end. My jaw hit the floor when they were revealing at the ending of the book. I’m almost sad that it ended so soon because Kitty’s story was just fantastic. I definitely couldn’t put this book down.
This series as it goes on is the perfect blend of a cozy mystery and romance. They blend well perfectly together. The romance throughout Kitty’s story didn’t once take away from the mystery her and Riley were uncovering.
I definitely recommend not only this story, but the whole series in general. I personally think as each book comes out, it gets better and better. Each story has its own unique twist, and they never seem to feel the same or feel boring like some mystery books can be at times.

[Marie Reed · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Don't let other people write your story for you."

I felt like I had this mystery figured out and once again, the twists kept coming and I was wrong 😅 This series is just so good at keeping you guessing until the end and this one was no exception.

I was so excited to get Kitty's POV. She's so overlooked in the original Pride and Prejudice, always overshadowed by Lydia's exuberance. I also enjoyed the addition of Riley, who we've met briefly in other books. Putting the two of them together was genius and they got along wonderfully. And once again, the mystery was done perfectly!

[Amy Saggers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Drake you have done it again!
Book 4 in the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series and I would say it’s my favourite one yet.

This follows Kitty’s story or Lizzie’s little sister as she is known by.
Kitty never has a say in her own life and struggles to make decisions, always pleasing everyone else ahead of herself. This is until she meets Riley, Riley is a reporter and the two become partners in trying to solve a crime.. the murder of Kitty’s ex. I can’t give too much away as I don’t want to ruin the storyline and surprises along the way.

[Tara Petersen Naccarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun read. I really liked how Laura Drake was able to keep the essence of Austen's Kitty character while still being able to develop her. I also liked the love interest and how Kitty wasn't in Lydia's shadow in this book. it was nice to see her stand on her own feet and finally find a way to break away from the shadow of her sister's.

[EllasEnchantedReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty’s Story is a fun and cozy fantasy romance with small town mystery, witchy vibes, potions, pumpkins, and a sweet friends to lovers romance with humor and delightfully witty banter. I am seriously obsessed with this series of Pride and Prejudice retellings, and this installment is hands down my new favorite. These stories are so good, so hard to put down, and I love that they are interconnected standalones so you get to keep seeing both new and familiar characters!

Thanks a million to Laura M. Drake for a copy of this eARC!

[Rebekka Ragusa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing amazing! Cute spook season premise! Read everything from this author❤️

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty’s story the next instalment of a modern twist on pride & prejudice with a magical cozy mystery feel. I have had the pleasure of reading the first 3 books in the series as well as the prequel so far they have not failed to engage from the very first page of each one that I can’t put them down. I really enjoyed how Kitty’s character grew through each chapter and that she's learning to trust herself and her magic. I can’t wait to see how the relationship between her and Riley develops. The perfect book for curling up on the sofa with a cup of tea and a cookie.

I look forward to reading the next instalment in the series.

Thanks to the author for the ARC copy and this is my honest review.

Laura M. Drake

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am absolutely loving these stories. And Kitty and Riley are just adorable. o love that the book has romance and a murder mystery all rolled into one. A little bit of magic sprinkled in, and a whole lot of fun reading this book.

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

Absolutely loved this fun, Halloween cozy mystery!

This story follows Kitty as she navigates through her own love life mystery. When an unexpected tragedy strikes very close to home, she has to put aside her usual reservations to figure out the true story of what really happened.

This book includes some of our favorite characters from the classic with modern twists like texting, and fantasy favorites like fae, witches, and shifters.

I highly recommend for anyone looking for a cozy fall/Halloween read and/or anyone who loves the world of Pride and Prejudice!

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of the Pride, Prejudice and Potions series is a real mystery thriller. I thought it was perfect leading up to Halloween. I liked Kitty’s character. She wasn’t portrayed as being too silly or flirty but more levelheaded and caring. I feel like she definitely matured throughout the story. The mystery was intriguing and engaging. I enjoyed watching Kitty and Riley work together to solve the mystery and their friendship develop along the way. There were some great Austen easter eggs throughout the story to watch for. I’m excited to see her story is next.

[Elle and the Haunted Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book that absolutely hit the mark. I truly loved seeing Kitty getting the “page” time I’ve always wanted her to have!

[Miranda Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this series so much! Every book is a new opportunity to fall in love with these characters all over again. Cute, cozy, fall vibes along with a healthy dose of murder mystery make these fun and easy to read.
I have been super excited to finally get the chance to get to know each of the younger Bennett siblings and their special talents and personalities.
The recipes have been phenomenal and I enjoy the book club questions as well!

[Lavender Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful blend of cozy mystery and paranormal fun. The story is ingeniously plotted with imaginative worldbuilding and fascinating characters. My favourite is Riley, I loved his flirty and teasing remarks. A delightful read.

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

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this one! Never knowing what was going to happen, who was really feeling what, was such a fun adventure! Lizzy’s story was my favorite of this series that I have read so far, but this one was definitely a close second!

[Adrianne Gil · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great installment in the series. Couldn't put it down. I finished Kitty's story in one night. I loved Kitty's character. She and Riley are so cute. I loved that the book was more centered around the murder mystery and kitty than the romance itself. It was such a good balance. The writing flowed so well. Loved the twist and turns. I was shocked at who was the one responsible for the murder. Absolutely love this series, looking forward to the next one. 



Thank you for the Arc all thoughts are my own. 

[Delilah Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was absolutely amazing
the plot was
incredible and interesting and I loved it and I loved the characters it was absolutely brilliant and the characters were amazing

[Raina Bridges · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book — even more than Mary’s story! From the very first chapter, I was completely drawn in. Kitty’s journey was such a beautiful blend of growth, heart, and a little bit of magic. I loved seeing how her character developed beyond what we know from Pride and Prejudice — she truly came into her own in this story.

The plot kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, with just the right mix of romance, tension, and unexpected twists. I found myself rooting for Kitty through every challenge, and the ending left me feeling so satisfied and happy. The author did an amazing job bringing these familiar characters to life in a fresh, enchanting way while still keeping that classic Austen charm.

Overall, I adored every bit of this book and couldn’t put it down. It’s heartfelt, exciting, and full of personality. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys retellings, Regency romance, or stories with a magical touch. ✨💜

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book in this series gets better and better. Kitty and Riley are a great couple and work together perfectly with figuring out the mystery in the book. Riley's secret was a twist I didn't see coming. I loved seeing the Bennett sisters and secondary characters from Jane Austen's books throughout the story. I never saw that ending coming. This is a great spooky season book.

[Irma Villaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again another great cozy fall murder mystery with a dash of romance! I loved learning about Kitty, in the past books she comes off as a trouble maker along side Lydia but you get to understand her a little more in this book. You learn about her fae gift of balancing emotions, her talent with potions, her hurt over a break up and her new found interest in Riley. Kitty's story helped us readers get to know her better and realize she isn't just a little sister. Also her happily ever after at the end was the cherry on top! Kitty and Riley forever!