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Peas & Quiet
A witch hiding her power. A baron with no interest in marriage. In a manor full of potential brides, it isn’t the demon that worries them.
Nicholas Huxley, Baron of Marstede, enjoys his solitude. He’d rather deal with the alleged demon haunting his lands than the gaggle of women invading his home. His mother has other plans, however. Not that her plans matter. He won’t change his mind about marriage. Not even for the woman swathed in secrets he’s determined to uncover.
Sadie Winsel learned the hard way that no one wants a mind-reader in their midst. In order to find acceptance, she must live a constrained life. She gives up brewing her beloved potions and keeps her head down to prevent anyone from discovering she is a witch. When a case of mistaken identity offers her the opportunity to step beyond her self-imposed cage, she can’t resist. Nor can she resist the protective baron who pretends to be a grump.
It is only meant to be a fleeting escape, a chance to be herself without the risk of betraying her secret. But when Sadie discovers the forest really is haunted, she must decide which is facing a demon alone or trusting Nicholas with the truth of her power.
Nicholas Huxley, Baron of Marstede, enjoys his solitude. He’d rather deal with the alleged demon haunting his lands than the gaggle of women invading his home. His mother has other plans, however. Not that her plans matter. He won’t change his mind about marriage. Not even for the woman swathed in secrets he’s determined to uncover.
Sadie Winsel learned the hard way that no one wants a mind-reader in their midst. In order to find acceptance, she must live a constrained life. She gives up brewing her beloved potions and keeps her head down to prevent anyone from discovering she is a witch. When a case of mistaken identity offers her the opportunity to step beyond her self-imposed cage, she can’t resist. Nor can she resist the protective baron who pretends to be a grump.
It is only meant to be a fleeting escape, a chance to be herself without the risk of betraying her secret. But when Sadie discovers the forest really is haunted, she must decide which is facing a demon alone or trusting Nicholas with the truth of her power.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2026
About the author
Jen Lynning
24 books96 followersJen Lynning never outgrew her love of fairy tales. (She may have studied German just so she could read the Brothers Grimm in the original.) When she wasn’t reading about life in a magical world, she was imagining it. Eventually she decided to start writing her own stories where magic and romance meet.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 30, 2026
Un-put-down-able. Literally, I stayed up until 3am last night because it was far too fun to stop. A clever, practical, bold heroine, with a hero who refuses to stop until she can safely be her whole self is my CATNIP. The banter was immaculate, the sparks between them had me giggling, the tension was delicious. This book is a delight from start to finish. Cozy romantasy readers, run don't walk!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🏰Princess and the Pea retelling
💚Witches
🏰Marriage competition
💚He's a walking green flag
🏰He knows how she likes her tea
💚She's telepath, and sees all his fantasies
🏰Cozy vibes with spice
💚He knows she's lying, She knows he knows and they're both having fun
🏰Banter
💚Standalone
♥️♥️Huge thanks to Jen Lynning for the gifted arc, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own♥️♥️
Nicholas is tired of his mother trying to set him up with every available unmarried woman in the area. He finally struck a deal with her: invite half a dozen women to Marstede Manor to meet him for a month, hoping that the visit would change his views on matrimony.
Sadie is a telepath, a mind reader who constantly moves around when those around her are uncomfortable with her powers. and now she lives quietly in Lansdel, working at a shop, hoping her secret will be kept safe so she can finally open her own. while delivering an order to Marstede Manor, Sadie ends up acting as the sixth guest.
I am one of Jen Lynning's fans and am absolutely in love with all of her books😍 I love the premises, the stories, the worldbuilding, the characters, the banter, and this book is no exception!!🤩😍 I'm in love, I'm enthralled, and I'm obsessed!🤩😍 this book was a pure joy to read🥰 this story was absolutely fun, cozy and adorable from beginning to end. Sadie and Nicholas are a delight😆 their chemistry from the very first time they met was palpable, they're sooo cute together!😍🥰 I absolutely love their dynamics, how their partnership is and the way they would converse about things. since their first meeting, both have been intrigued by the other, but one is afraid of her secret being found out and the other is eager to know the secret😆 for most people, having a mind-reader around is terrifying that so many people avoid Sadie and caused her to move around from town to town when her secret is discovered...but everything changed when Sadie met her people, people who were comfortable with her secret🥰 aaand it's hard not to laugh when Sadie reads Nicholas's thoughts about her, especially when he has already found out her secret😂😂
This was an addictive read, I absolutely loved every minute of it🥰😆 I didn't want it to end at all😢😆 If you love a cozy retelling with wonderful worldbuilding and lovable characters, I highly recommend this book!!✨✨
💚Witches
🏰Marriage competition
💚He's a walking green flag
🏰He knows how she likes her tea
💚She's telepath, and sees all his fantasies
🏰Cozy vibes with spice
💚He knows she's lying, She knows he knows and they're both having fun
🏰Banter
💚Standalone
♥️♥️Huge thanks to Jen Lynning for the gifted arc, it's an honor and privilege to me. All opinions are my own♥️♥️
"Nothing about you is demonic. Nothing."
Nicholas is tired of his mother trying to set him up with every available unmarried woman in the area. He finally struck a deal with her: invite half a dozen women to Marstede Manor to meet him for a month, hoping that the visit would change his views on matrimony.
Sadie is a telepath, a mind reader who constantly moves around when those around her are uncomfortable with her powers. and now she lives quietly in Lansdel, working at a shop, hoping her secret will be kept safe so she can finally open her own. while delivering an order to Marstede Manor, Sadie ends up acting as the sixth guest.
"I don't mind having you in my head." I want all of you.
"I would rather face down a thousand demons than go a day without you."
I am one of Jen Lynning's fans and am absolutely in love with all of her books😍 I love the premises, the stories, the worldbuilding, the characters, the banter, and this book is no exception!!🤩😍 I'm in love, I'm enthralled, and I'm obsessed!🤩😍 this book was a pure joy to read🥰 this story was absolutely fun, cozy and adorable from beginning to end. Sadie and Nicholas are a delight😆 their chemistry from the very first time they met was palpable, they're sooo cute together!😍🥰 I absolutely love their dynamics, how their partnership is and the way they would converse about things. since their first meeting, both have been intrigued by the other, but one is afraid of her secret being found out and the other is eager to know the secret😆 for most people, having a mind-reader around is terrifying that so many people avoid Sadie and caused her to move around from town to town when her secret is discovered...but everything changed when Sadie met her people, people who were comfortable with her secret🥰 aaand it's hard not to laugh when Sadie reads Nicholas's thoughts about her, especially when he has already found out her secret😂😂
This was an addictive read, I absolutely loved every minute of it🥰😆 I didn't want it to end at all😢😆 If you love a cozy retelling with wonderful worldbuilding and lovable characters, I highly recommend this book!!✨✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
***ARC Review***
4.5 stars rounded to 5
The title is absolutely right- this is a cozy romance! And with stakes just high enough to have me finishing the book way too quickly. Sadie and Nicholas were both entertaining, kind people, and were such a joy to read about. I really liked that there was pretty low angst between them. For most of the book, they were working together, whether it was against their enemy, or against Sadie’s (understandable) insecurities.
I found the premise to be really interesting- that Sadie’s magical power is telepathy, but that she has to hide it in order to not be ostracized by the people she cares about (something that has happened to her repeatedly in the past). The logistics of hearing people’s thoughts, not responding to them out loud, but also trying to do good with the information she receives, all without exposing her secret is a tricky balance to achieve.
Nicholas, while outwardly a bit of a grump, is so perceptive, and caring. One of my favorite parts of the book is when he recognizes that Sadie hides her abilities and has been hurt in the past, and that she’s terrified of anyone finding out. But at the same time, it’s clear that she loves creating potions. So he very carefully offers up a solution for her, without explicitly telling her that he knows she’s a witch. His intuition and thoughtfulness was really sweet.
Other things I loved:
-They are genuinely good, kind people who care for and want to take care of each other
-They communicate! Sadie made it clear that direct, honest communication made life easier for her, and I really appreciated that
-When information *is* withheld, they don’t hold it against each other or assume the worst
-No arbitrary miscommunication or assumptions. Even rash decisions were understandable considering their previous experiences
-Most of the conflict was external
-The setting! When it comes to historical romance/historical romantic fantasy, I’m a sucker for house parties in the country
-The interfering matriarch with a heart of gold. Always a favorite
My only complaints are that it was a little repetitive with the details in the beginning about how Sadie had left previous towns and why, and the stakes that were involved (being ostracized). And then the pea thing was kind of convoluted- it felt like it was forced into the story, but it played such a small part that it didn’t really matter.
4.5 stars rounded to 5
The title is absolutely right- this is a cozy romance! And with stakes just high enough to have me finishing the book way too quickly. Sadie and Nicholas were both entertaining, kind people, and were such a joy to read about. I really liked that there was pretty low angst between them. For most of the book, they were working together, whether it was against their enemy, or against Sadie’s (understandable) insecurities.
I found the premise to be really interesting- that Sadie’s magical power is telepathy, but that she has to hide it in order to not be ostracized by the people she cares about (something that has happened to her repeatedly in the past). The logistics of hearing people’s thoughts, not responding to them out loud, but also trying to do good with the information she receives, all without exposing her secret is a tricky balance to achieve.
Nicholas, while outwardly a bit of a grump, is so perceptive, and caring. One of my favorite parts of the book is when he recognizes that Sadie hides her abilities and has been hurt in the past, and that she’s terrified of anyone finding out. But at the same time, it’s clear that she loves creating potions. So he very carefully offers up a solution for her, without explicitly telling her that he knows she’s a witch. His intuition and thoughtfulness was really sweet.
Other things I loved:
-They are genuinely good, kind people who care for and want to take care of each other
-They communicate! Sadie made it clear that direct, honest communication made life easier for her, and I really appreciated that
-When information *is* withheld, they don’t hold it against each other or assume the worst
-No arbitrary miscommunication or assumptions. Even rash decisions were understandable considering their previous experiences
-Most of the conflict was external
-The setting! When it comes to historical romance/historical romantic fantasy, I’m a sucker for house parties in the country
-The interfering matriarch with a heart of gold. Always a favorite
My only complaints are that it was a little repetitive with the details in the beginning about how Sadie had left previous towns and why, and the stakes that were involved (being ostracized). And then the pea thing was kind of convoluted- it felt like it was forced into the story, but it played such a small part that it didn’t really matter.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jen Lynning has done it again! Peas & Quiet is an absolute gem of a cozy fantasy romance. It is warm, charming, and filled with two leads who are so genuinely good that I found myself smiling through entire chapters. Sadie and Nicholas are wonderful on their own, but together they’re irresistible, and Nicholas’ mother is the perfect meddling matriarch with a heart of gold.
The title couldn’t be more fitting: this is a cozy romance through and through and it had enough mystery and adventure to keep me reading so I finished the book way too fast! One of the things I loved most is how low-angst Sadie and Nicholas are as a couple. They communicate, they trust each other, and even when information is withheld, they don’t leap to the worst conclusions. Most of the conflict comes from the outside world (e.g. haunted woods, demons, and the dangers of magic), not from arbitrary misunderstandings.
Sadie’s telepathy adds a really interesting layer to the story. Her magical gifts are powerful, but they’ve also cost her dearly. The tension of hearing people’s thoughts while trying not to react, trying to help without revealing herself, and trying to belong in a world that has repeatedly rejected her. It is all handled with nuance and heart. Her fear of ostracism is deeply understandable (it does get repeated a bit often in the beginning). Even with all that she has endured, she is such a caring person.
Nicholas, meanwhile, is a delight. Outwardly grumpy but inwardly perceptive and tender, he’s the kind of hero who notices everything and responds with quiet care. When he figures out that Sadie is hiding her abilities and has been hurt before, he doesn't push but offers her a way to keep doing what she loves without exposing herself. His intuition and thoughtfulness make him a perfect match for her.
In the end, Peas & Quiet is exactly what I want from a cozy fantasy romance: smart, likable characters, a touch of danger, a dash of magic, and a love story that feels both comforting and earned. Sadie and Nicholas were such a joy to read about, and I finished the book far too quickly.
A lovely, heartwarming read—I’d recommend it to anyone who loves gentle fantasy, fairytale retellings, or romances where kindness is the driving force. Thanks to Jenn Lynning for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The title couldn’t be more fitting: this is a cozy romance through and through and it had enough mystery and adventure to keep me reading so I finished the book way too fast! One of the things I loved most is how low-angst Sadie and Nicholas are as a couple. They communicate, they trust each other, and even when information is withheld, they don’t leap to the worst conclusions. Most of the conflict comes from the outside world (e.g. haunted woods, demons, and the dangers of magic), not from arbitrary misunderstandings.
Sadie’s telepathy adds a really interesting layer to the story. Her magical gifts are powerful, but they’ve also cost her dearly. The tension of hearing people’s thoughts while trying not to react, trying to help without revealing herself, and trying to belong in a world that has repeatedly rejected her. It is all handled with nuance and heart. Her fear of ostracism is deeply understandable (it does get repeated a bit often in the beginning). Even with all that she has endured, she is such a caring person.
Nicholas, meanwhile, is a delight. Outwardly grumpy but inwardly perceptive and tender, he’s the kind of hero who notices everything and responds with quiet care. When he figures out that Sadie is hiding her abilities and has been hurt before, he doesn't push but offers her a way to keep doing what she loves without exposing herself. His intuition and thoughtfulness make him a perfect match for her.
In the end, Peas & Quiet is exactly what I want from a cozy fantasy romance: smart, likable characters, a touch of danger, a dash of magic, and a love story that feels both comforting and earned. Sadie and Nicholas were such a joy to read about, and I finished the book far too quickly.
A lovely, heartwarming read—I’d recommend it to anyone who loves gentle fantasy, fairytale retellings, or romances where kindness is the driving force. Thanks to Jenn Lynning for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Peas & Quiet was a little gem of a cozy fantasy romance. It had all of the cozy elements that I look for. The MCs were smart, likable, mature and easy to root for. The plot had a great set up for an unlikely romance to bloom, there's a "haunted" wood, and enough risk to add some danger and action to the story without overwhelming the romance. I also liked that the magic that was present in the world was just matter-of-factly there. There was enough worldbuilding to give a sense for the setting, but not so much that it bogged down the story. All of the story elements were just right.
Nicholas is a lovely cinnamon roll, an earth witch extremely skilled at carving runes and creating wards, who's never been in love and therefore can't imagine he ever would be. When his mother guilt trips him into agreeing to host "a few" eligible young ladies for a month in hopes of finding him a wife, he reluctantly agrees, thinking there's no way any of them will appeal.
When his mother impulsively invites Sadie, a local shop girl to join the party after seeing how she and Nicholas strike sparks off each other, events are set in motion that will end in love, but not without a few bumps in the road including the unwelcome appearance of a demon. Sadie, it seems, is hiding a rather large secret. She's a water witch, a skilled potion brewer, and a telepath, all of which are skills she'll need to call upon to fight the demon and protect the house party.
The plot flowed smoothly with no slow spots, Nick and Sadie made a great team, and I raced through the book with enjoyment. I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Nicholas is a lovely cinnamon roll, an earth witch extremely skilled at carving runes and creating wards, who's never been in love and therefore can't imagine he ever would be. When his mother guilt trips him into agreeing to host "a few" eligible young ladies for a month in hopes of finding him a wife, he reluctantly agrees, thinking there's no way any of them will appeal.
When his mother impulsively invites Sadie, a local shop girl to join the party after seeing how she and Nicholas strike sparks off each other, events are set in motion that will end in love, but not without a few bumps in the road including the unwelcome appearance of a demon. Sadie, it seems, is hiding a rather large secret. She's a water witch, a skilled potion brewer, and a telepath, all of which are skills she'll need to call upon to fight the demon and protect the house party.
The plot flowed smoothly with no slow spots, Nick and Sadie made a great team, and I raced through the book with enjoyment. I received an advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Peas and Quiet by Jen Lynning
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up to a 5)
Spice: 1/5
Cursing: very slight
Format/Source: ebook from author
Genres/Tropes: fantasy, romance, fairy tale retelling, mystery
Audience: NA
Setting: Marstede
Characters: Nicholas, Sadie, Madeline, Jane, Lenora, Helen, Beatrice, Pippa, Abigail
👍 short chapters, multi POV, magic, mystery, cute, quaint, fun MCs, very little cursing, fast-paced
👎 none
Description:
Nicholas Huxley, Baron of Marstede, enjoys his solitude. He’d rather deal with the alleged demon haunting his lands than the gaggle of women invading his home. His mother has other plans, however. Not that her plans matter. He won’t change his mind about marriage. Not even for the woman swathed in secrets he’s determined to uncover.
Sadie Winsel learned the hard way that no one wants a mind-reader in their midst. In order to find acceptance, she must live a constrained life. She gives up brewing her beloved potions and keeps her head down to prevent anyone from discovering she is a witch. When a case of mistaken identity offers her the opportunity to step beyond her self-imposed cage, she can’t resist. Nor can she resist the protective baron who pretends to be a grump.
It is only meant to be a fleeting escape, a chance to be herself without the risk of betraying her secret. But when Sadie discovers the forest really is haunted, she must decide which is facing a demon alone or trusting Nicholas with the truth of her power.
I enjoyed this novel especially the magic systems and the intriguing characters. The entire story was very fun and unique. I would recommend it to those who enjoy quaint fantasies.
#bookstagram #booklovers #magicbooks #fantasybooks #fairytaleretelling
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up to a 5)
Spice: 1/5
Cursing: very slight
Format/Source: ebook from author
Genres/Tropes: fantasy, romance, fairy tale retelling, mystery
Audience: NA
Setting: Marstede
Characters: Nicholas, Sadie, Madeline, Jane, Lenora, Helen, Beatrice, Pippa, Abigail
👍 short chapters, multi POV, magic, mystery, cute, quaint, fun MCs, very little cursing, fast-paced
👎 none
Description:
Nicholas Huxley, Baron of Marstede, enjoys his solitude. He’d rather deal with the alleged demon haunting his lands than the gaggle of women invading his home. His mother has other plans, however. Not that her plans matter. He won’t change his mind about marriage. Not even for the woman swathed in secrets he’s determined to uncover.
Sadie Winsel learned the hard way that no one wants a mind-reader in their midst. In order to find acceptance, she must live a constrained life. She gives up brewing her beloved potions and keeps her head down to prevent anyone from discovering she is a witch. When a case of mistaken identity offers her the opportunity to step beyond her self-imposed cage, she can’t resist. Nor can she resist the protective baron who pretends to be a grump.
It is only meant to be a fleeting escape, a chance to be herself without the risk of betraying her secret. But when Sadie discovers the forest really is haunted, she must decide which is facing a demon alone or trusting Nicholas with the truth of her power.
I enjoyed this novel especially the magic systems and the intriguing characters. The entire story was very fun and unique. I would recommend it to those who enjoy quaint fantasies.
#bookstagram #booklovers #magicbooks #fantasybooks #fairytaleretelling
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nicholas, Baron of Marstede, does not want to marry in spite of his mother’s machinations. With the reward of unbothered bachelordom if he is not swayed, Nicholas agrees for his mother to host less than half a dozen eligible brides at their remote estate. Sadie is a shop girl in a society that views certain magic with suspicion and her own telepathy with revulsion. Struggling with keeping her magic hidden, Sadie accidentally becomes Nicholas’s bachelorette number six. Drawing loosely from the Princess and the Pea, Peas and Quiet is a Gaslamp romantasy between two individuals who claim to prefer solitude but have found their match in each other.
The setting of a Regency-inspired house party was a great choice for a fairytale retelling. I really enjoyed the blend of traditional historical romance tropes with magic here. Nicholas and Sadie were a well matched couple and independently very likeable mature adults. Sadie’s struggles with trust and connection feel very valid, and her growing comfort with Nicholas feels earned. Nicholas particularly was just deliciously competent and thoughtful. Give me a responsible grump over a rake any day! I actually found the inclusion of the “peas” to be the biggest stretch, and much preferred simply spending time with our main couple as they became closer. This may have supplanted Empath’s Lure as my favorite Jen Lynning work to date.
Thank you to Jen Lynning for the opportunity to read an ARC of this novel! All opinions are my own.
The setting of a Regency-inspired house party was a great choice for a fairytale retelling. I really enjoyed the blend of traditional historical romance tropes with magic here. Nicholas and Sadie were a well matched couple and independently very likeable mature adults. Sadie’s struggles with trust and connection feel very valid, and her growing comfort with Nicholas feels earned. Nicholas particularly was just deliciously competent and thoughtful. Give me a responsible grump over a rake any day! I actually found the inclusion of the “peas” to be the biggest stretch, and much preferred simply spending time with our main couple as they became closer. This may have supplanted Empath’s Lure as my favorite Jen Lynning work to date.
Thank you to Jen Lynning for the opportunity to read an ARC of this novel! All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2026
Okay so I actually LOVE Jen Lynning and her books, and she’s written some of my favourite book couples, and Nicholas and Sadie are amongst them. Her stories are a beautiful blend of so much of the stuff that makes fairytales into, well, fairytales, but also of some seriousness that lets you know you’re reading a book with an actual plot, in this case, a demon haunting the forest nearby the estate the story is set in.
I also love how the romance is not a subplot but also not the ONLY thing you can focus on. The book is really romance driven, but it gives you enough character building and plot that at times, you aren’t even thinking about the couple, rather the other aspects of the story.
All in all, I have to say Jen Lynning is exactly the author you’re searching for if you want a fairytale-like story that will most likely get you out of a reading slump and will have you absorbed, turning pages until you find yourself at the end. If you’ve read any of her other books, you know what I’m referring to, but if you haven’t, this is a perfect start! And then I’d recommend “Deceiving The Cursed Beast” and the Once Upon an Enchantment series! All those books feel silly enough that will have you feeling like a kid reading a story about princesses and curses and whatnot, but also strong enough to keep you intrigued and invested.
I also love how the romance is not a subplot but also not the ONLY thing you can focus on. The book is really romance driven, but it gives you enough character building and plot that at times, you aren’t even thinking about the couple, rather the other aspects of the story.
All in all, I have to say Jen Lynning is exactly the author you’re searching for if you want a fairytale-like story that will most likely get you out of a reading slump and will have you absorbed, turning pages until you find yourself at the end. If you’ve read any of her other books, you know what I’m referring to, but if you haven’t, this is a perfect start! And then I’d recommend “Deceiving The Cursed Beast” and the Once Upon an Enchantment series! All those books feel silly enough that will have you feeling like a kid reading a story about princesses and curses and whatnot, but also strong enough to keep you intrigued and invested.
May 3, 2026
“Careful,” Sadie chided with a smile, “or I’m going to start thinking you want me to stay.”
If he wasn’t careful, he was going to beg her to stay.
I loved Peas & Quiet! This princess & the pea retelling presents a unique take on tbd fairytale. Sadie is a shop girl who gets thrown into a bride competition when a shop delivery goes askew after an argumentative meet cute with a baron. (He was trying to send her away, but his meddling, matchmaker mother has other plans)
I love Sadie and Nicholas’s dynamic! He wants his mom to stop matchmaking and wants solitude. Sadie and her secrets intrigue him in a way nothing has before. She’s terrified of people discovering her telepathic ability and deciding she’s not with being around. He’s also too perceptive for her own good.
There’s also a mystery plotline! With danger!
All in all, this one was great! Many thanks to Jen Lynning for the eARC!
Peas & Quiet features:
💜Meddling Matchmaker Mother
🫛Princess & the Pea Retelling
💜FMC with Hidden Magic
🫛MMC who Falls Hard
💜Bride Competition
🫛”Only You”
💜Banter
If he wasn’t careful, he was going to beg her to stay.
I loved Peas & Quiet! This princess & the pea retelling presents a unique take on tbd fairytale. Sadie is a shop girl who gets thrown into a bride competition when a shop delivery goes askew after an argumentative meet cute with a baron. (He was trying to send her away, but his meddling, matchmaker mother has other plans)
I love Sadie and Nicholas’s dynamic! He wants his mom to stop matchmaking and wants solitude. Sadie and her secrets intrigue him in a way nothing has before. She’s terrified of people discovering her telepathic ability and deciding she’s not with being around. He’s also too perceptive for her own good.
There’s also a mystery plotline! With danger!
All in all, this one was great! Many thanks to Jen Lynning for the eARC!
Peas & Quiet features:
💜Meddling Matchmaker Mother
🫛Princess & the Pea Retelling
💜FMC with Hidden Magic
🫛MMC who Falls Hard
💜Bride Competition
🫛”Only You”
💜Banter
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh I just ate this book up!!! I absolutely love fairytale retellings and Peas & Quiet was just so good!!
Sadie, the FMC, is hiding more than one secret and the longer she spends in the presence of Nicholas, threatens to reveal them all. I really love how smart and witty she is. Her power as a telepath makes for some hilarious situations, especially when it comes to Nicholas and his imagination 😂
Nicholas is the most adorable green flag MMC and his POVs were so swoon-worthy. The banter he has with Sadie just off the bat was amazing and I was just giggling and kicking my feet. His determination to figuring out all of Sadie's secrets had me laughing.
Besides the growing affection and the meddling mother, the rest of the guests also have secrets of their own, one maybe darker and more dangerous than first thought.
I really just thoroughly enjoyed this story. The chemistry, the spicy time, the banter, just the love and understanding had me just having a great time. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
Sadie, the FMC, is hiding more than one secret and the longer she spends in the presence of Nicholas, threatens to reveal them all. I really love how smart and witty she is. Her power as a telepath makes for some hilarious situations, especially when it comes to Nicholas and his imagination 😂
Nicholas is the most adorable green flag MMC and his POVs were so swoon-worthy. The banter he has with Sadie just off the bat was amazing and I was just giggling and kicking my feet. His determination to figuring out all of Sadie's secrets had me laughing.
Besides the growing affection and the meddling mother, the rest of the guests also have secrets of their own, one maybe darker and more dangerous than first thought.
I really just thoroughly enjoyed this story. The chemistry, the spicy time, the banter, just the love and understanding had me just having a great time. I cannot wait to read more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Peas and Quiet is a bewitching fairytale retelling that blends Princess and the Pea vibes with cozy witchy romance—think stacked mattresses hiding a demon-haunted manor, not just a pesky pea! Jennifer Linnyng crafts a whimsical world where introverted mind-reading witch Sadie Winsel swaps her constrained life for a fleeting escape among potential brides, only to spark with the grumpy-yet-protective Baron Nicholas Huxley.
It's very cute from start to finish—their banter crackles softly, her secret potion-brewing heart peeks through, and his "no marriage" facade crumbles under her quiet charm. The manor full of scheming brides adds hilarious chaos, while the real demon threat in the forest brings just enough stakes to make Sadie's choice (face it alone or trust Nicholas?) deliciously tense. Zero over-the-top angst, all comforting whimsy with a protective cinnamon-roll baron who sees her true power.
A perfect 5-star cozy escape. Fairytale fans craving soft magic, hidden witches, and grumpy/sunshine goodness will adore this gem.
Thank you, Jennifer Linnyng, for the ARC! 🧹🛏️🖤
It's very cute from start to finish—their banter crackles softly, her secret potion-brewing heart peeks through, and his "no marriage" facade crumbles under her quiet charm. The manor full of scheming brides adds hilarious chaos, while the real demon threat in the forest brings just enough stakes to make Sadie's choice (face it alone or trust Nicholas?) deliciously tense. Zero over-the-top angst, all comforting whimsy with a protective cinnamon-roll baron who sees her true power.
A perfect 5-star cozy escape. Fairytale fans craving soft magic, hidden witches, and grumpy/sunshine goodness will adore this gem.
Thank you, Jennifer Linnyng, for the ARC! 🧹🛏️🖤
May 22, 2026
What you've been waiting for
This book is what you always hope will happen to authors you follow. They mature beautifully. I recently found Miss Lenning's books and they are all delightful, but I feel like for this one her writing reached a new depth. Hopefully my explanation makes sense. I knew from the end of chapter one that the main female character narrating was such a strong voice and was deluding herself in her own false thoughts. Usually when a character is narrating they have an idea set in stone and that is their core and nothing can shake that and we're given a male that just rolls over for that, but the way I knew she thought she was set in stone but would change and make a beautiful character arc got me so excited to read the rest of the book. And her problems and hesitations were SO believable. I loved it so much! And the fact that the love interests never got turned against each other was the cherry on top (it's an overdone trope for me but I understand it has to happen sometimes). This is Jen's best book yet! Read it!
This book is what you always hope will happen to authors you follow. They mature beautifully. I recently found Miss Lenning's books and they are all delightful, but I feel like for this one her writing reached a new depth. Hopefully my explanation makes sense. I knew from the end of chapter one that the main female character narrating was such a strong voice and was deluding herself in her own false thoughts. Usually when a character is narrating they have an idea set in stone and that is their core and nothing can shake that and we're given a male that just rolls over for that, but the way I knew she thought she was set in stone but would change and make a beautiful character arc got me so excited to read the rest of the book. And her problems and hesitations were SO believable. I loved it so much! And the fact that the love interests never got turned against each other was the cherry on top (it's an overdone trope for me but I understand it has to happen sometimes). This is Jen's best book yet! Read it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm a huge fan of this author and have devoured several of their series. When I heard about this newest book it was a RUN, not walk situation.
If you're a fan of romantasy books with clever magic systems, Jen's books are for you.
Peas & Quiet is a Princess and the Pea retelling that will have you kicking your feet one moment and sitting straight up another. It is a page turner that builds the romantic tension through partnership/teamwork, mystery through strange events and reveals from other characters, and the magic system through flashbacks and potion creation. A few twists will keep you guessing. You'll immediately fall in love with the FMC and appreciate her approach to the Bachelor style game.
Overall, this book brings a lot to a retelling, so much so that I hardly thought of the original story I was so wrapped up in the cast of eligible women, a ringleader mother, grumpy single man, and a smart and kind FMC.
If you're a fan of romantasy books with clever magic systems, Jen's books are for you.
Peas & Quiet is a Princess and the Pea retelling that will have you kicking your feet one moment and sitting straight up another. It is a page turner that builds the romantic tension through partnership/teamwork, mystery through strange events and reveals from other characters, and the magic system through flashbacks and potion creation. A few twists will keep you guessing. You'll immediately fall in love with the FMC and appreciate her approach to the Bachelor style game.
Overall, this book brings a lot to a retelling, so much so that I hardly thought of the original story I was so wrapped up in the cast of eligible women, a ringleader mother, grumpy single man, and a smart and kind FMC.
May 14, 2026
I loved reading this arc of Peas and Quiet. It was a fun way to do a retelling of the Princess and the Pea. Nicholas a Baron is being pushed into finding love and a wife. She has 5 woman staying at their home for a month to get to know the Baron. Sadie is a telepath and water witch who is in hiding of her powers and who she really is. She works at a specialty shop in a small town. She is sent to deliver a special soap to the Barons door. After the encounter between them at the side kitchen door, the Baron’s mother invites Sadie to join the other ladies for the month as a deal with pay. During the stay there the ladies are put through lots of challenges of courting and getting to know Nicholas. Magical things start happening and the book is a mystery of who is threatening the girls lives. Nicholas and Sadie work together to figure out who the demon is and how to stop the evil magic. Lots of banter and magical happening. Reminded me of Bridgerton for courting. Loved reading this story.
May 21, 2026
I absolutely adored this book. It was full of cozy vibes, and the writer did such a wonderful job reimagining a well known fairytale with new and magical twists to make you fall in love with the story all over again. Nicholas and Sadie were well suited for each other - his grumpy exterior was no match for her sass.
One standout element of Peas and Quiet was the lack of miscommunication trope, and I found it truly refreshing to read about a couple who actually worked through their misconceptions and worries with maturity. Their romance felt all the more natural as it progressed for that same reason. I also really enjoyed Madeleine’s character as her meddling was for all the right reasons and she was truly supportive of her son’s relationship with Sadie despite her social standing.
I can’t help but gush about this book. It was amazing and is perfect for getting you out of a reading slump. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this world. Highly recommended!
One standout element of Peas and Quiet was the lack of miscommunication trope, and I found it truly refreshing to read about a couple who actually worked through their misconceptions and worries with maturity. Their romance felt all the more natural as it progressed for that same reason. I also really enjoyed Madeleine’s character as her meddling was for all the right reasons and she was truly supportive of her son’s relationship with Sadie despite her social standing.
I can’t help but gush about this book. It was amazing and is perfect for getting you out of a reading slump. I’m looking forward to seeing more of this world. Highly recommended!
May 22, 2026
So this is a retelling of The princess and the pea, but realistically I think this is better than that. I honestly love books from this author because the way she writes them and the way she follows the time era that she's doing. Always gives you the effect that you're in there. First of all I love the character Sadie, she's sassy, witty, smart, and a witch that's just trying to not have to move. Then you have Nicholas who is a grumpy guy who doesn't want to get married and is a witch himself. The story goes throughout how they fall in love and how they have to handle a situation about the forest. I won't say too much details because I kind of liked it's a surprise aspect of it. But this is such a great story and if you love retelling, that I would give this author a read and definitely give this book a read. I was hooked!
June 16, 2026
I am yet again blown away by Jen’s ability to yank me right into her story. I love when an author can make me feel like a fly on the wall as I read a book. And Jen never fails to do so!
On to the review! I am blown away by how well done this story was. I loved watching Nicholas interact with all of the ladies present. But his interactions with Sadie were my favorite.
Watching the love between them grow, as Sadie learned more and more about herself and her abilities was beautiful. And there was a tiny twist that I wasn’t expecting! Parts of it I suspected but there was one part that made my jaw drop! I won’t say what it was, so you have to read to see for yourself!
There was a couple of steamy moments, but not many. On the spice scale I’d give one pepper out of five.
Overall this was an absolutely amazing read. And I 100 percent recommend it!
On to the review! I am blown away by how well done this story was. I loved watching Nicholas interact with all of the ladies present. But his interactions with Sadie were my favorite.
Watching the love between them grow, as Sadie learned more and more about herself and her abilities was beautiful. And there was a tiny twist that I wasn’t expecting! Parts of it I suspected but there was one part that made my jaw drop! I won’t say what it was, so you have to read to see for yourself!
There was a couple of steamy moments, but not many. On the spice scale I’d give one pepper out of five.
Overall this was an absolutely amazing read. And I 100 percent recommend it!
April 11, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! The characters as depth and the plot was fun, and neither the romance nor the mystery were overdone. I wish I was reading more about Sadie and Nicholas, so I’ll definitely be keeping up with the author more to find out if there’s more books in this world. Personally, I’d love to see a Beatrice or Jane spin-off.
Seriously, the writing and editing were both well done. The hints to the ending are woven in very well, I noticed them enough to remember them as I was reading but they didn’t stand out enough to give the plot away. And speaking of, there were very few grammar errors or plot holes. I’m impressed!
Seriously, the writing and editing were both well done. The hints to the ending are woven in very well, I noticed them enough to remember them as I was reading but they didn’t stand out enough to give the plot away. And speaking of, there were very few grammar errors or plot holes. I’m impressed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the pleasure of beta reading this and now arc reading it.
I really enjoy this world of fairytale retellings that Lynning has created and the magic system is really interesting and unique.
The whole story is just really interesting, and I would love a spin off with Madelaine.
As always the romance is swoon worthy with hits of spice, and I just really love Sadie and Nicholas and their story. As always Lynning is good at bringing classic Romance and fantasy elements together in a delightful mix, that just leaves you feeling good.
This is such a cosy mystery romance and I highly recommend it, and the whole series!
I really enjoy this world of fairytale retellings that Lynning has created and the magic system is really interesting and unique.
The whole story is just really interesting, and I would love a spin off with Madelaine.
As always the romance is swoon worthy with hits of spice, and I just really love Sadie and Nicholas and their story. As always Lynning is good at bringing classic Romance and fantasy elements together in a delightful mix, that just leaves you feeling good.
This is such a cosy mystery romance and I highly recommend it, and the whole series!
May 6, 2026
Cozy and Comforting without any adrenaline rush!
I just beeezed through this book. The plot is set in historic times with all the drama of parties, Lords and Ladies, Carriages, Barons and Baroness!
There is some trickling of fairytale elements but not that significant and moreover it did not add any value to the story! The magic though is different and unlike anything i have read recently.
Nicholas and Sadie are perfect for each other. Even though this becomes evident initially itself but how they reach the end is beautiful and the trust they build alongside is heart melting!
Thank You for this ARC Jenn, I loved it!!!
I just beeezed through this book. The plot is set in historic times with all the drama of parties, Lords and Ladies, Carriages, Barons and Baroness!
There is some trickling of fairytale elements but not that significant and moreover it did not add any value to the story! The magic though is different and unlike anything i have read recently.
Nicholas and Sadie are perfect for each other. Even though this becomes evident initially itself but how they reach the end is beautiful and the trust they build alongside is heart melting!
Thank You for this ARC Jenn, I loved it!!!
May 30, 2026
Another Delightful Escape from Lynning
This was an original and engaging fantasy (right when I needed a good escape read) with witty banter, fun magic system, well-written and fully realized characters, close friendships, etc. And yes, I do appreciate the dedication—for everyone who wanted magic to play a bigger role in the romance. My only complaint is that the princess and the pea ‘retelling’ is a bit of a stretch. I wish we could market original work as *original* instead of fitting everything into specific tropes.
PS everything Jen Lynning writes is a guaranteed lovely read.
This was an original and engaging fantasy (right when I needed a good escape read) with witty banter, fun magic system, well-written and fully realized characters, close friendships, etc. And yes, I do appreciate the dedication—for everyone who wanted magic to play a bigger role in the romance. My only complaint is that the princess and the pea ‘retelling’ is a bit of a stretch. I wish we could market original work as *original* instead of fitting everything into specific tropes.
PS everything Jen Lynning writes is a guaranteed lovely read.
July 17, 2026
Read it within a day…. Wow wow so good, loved the characters and the banter, which was exactly why I downloaded, so yay!
but.. The FMC kept ruminating on the same thoughts and experiences, Beyond what made sense (imo), as an anxious person I get it & I understand, but it got tiresome to read after the 55% mark when the MMC already had her basic trust and other things were made so obvious by the subtext but not to her. Which yes I know is the main through line of her story but, as previously mentioned it got tiresome to read, overall loveddddd the book and the characters so it was overall worth lol
but.. The FMC kept ruminating on the same thoughts and experiences, Beyond what made sense (imo), as an anxious person I get it & I understand, but it got tiresome to read after the 55% mark when the MMC already had her basic trust and other things were made so obvious by the subtext but not to her. Which yes I know is the main through line of her story but, as previously mentioned it got tiresome to read, overall loveddddd the book and the characters so it was overall worth lol
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm a long-time fan of Jen Lynning and Peas & Quiet had more of everything I love about her books - smart, capable, mature characters who communicate well, a clever magic system, and romance that comes with an actual story alongside. There's no melodrama or third act break-up here, just solid plotting that makes the book easy reading. The Princess and the Pea is a fairytale that isn't often a first choice for retellings, which made this one feel more unique, though the details were a bit shoehorned in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an adorably cozy fantasy! 1/5 🌶️ while there are a few spicy scenes in this book, they are pretty tame.
Sadie and Nick are such lovable characters. Both of them want to stick to their way, but they don’t let their opinions cloud their feelings for each other. It’s nice and refreshing to read a MMC that will bow to his woman and not argue when she wants to use herself to save everyone. Nick is the perfect gentleman (until he gets Sadie alone) and doesn’t jump to conclusions when Sadie finally tells the truth.
Sadie and Nick are such lovable characters. Both of them want to stick to their way, but they don’t let their opinions cloud their feelings for each other. It’s nice and refreshing to read a MMC that will bow to his woman and not argue when she wants to use herself to save everyone. Nick is the perfect gentleman (until he gets Sadie alone) and doesn’t jump to conclusions when Sadie finally tells the truth.
May 14, 2026
This was such a charming story. I enjoyed the light-hearted spirit of the story. Sadie was a sassy and spirited gal, she was the perfect lady for our bachelor, Nicholas. I enjoyed the meddling mother, and seeing the interactions between Sadie and the other ladies. I thought the witch aspect of the story was unique. It was a new kind of magical system. The main element and then individual powers was fun and I almost wish we had more magic involved. The haunted forest added just enough mystery as well. I definitely think you should give it a read!
June 17, 2026
A very sweet read.
There was palpable tension between the main interests and loads of witty, clever banter between them, which really carried most of the book.
The first part of the book is heavily centred on the romance, which despite the clear attraction, is not rushed or insta-love. The baron’s mom is constantly meddling, but rather than annoying it was endearing.
Once they admit their feelings, the story shits to the secondary plot, which is a haunting of the baron’s manor, and that part dragged a bit, but overall very well written and light.
There was palpable tension between the main interests and loads of witty, clever banter between them, which really carried most of the book.
The first part of the book is heavily centred on the romance, which despite the clear attraction, is not rushed or insta-love. The baron’s mom is constantly meddling, but rather than annoying it was endearing.
Once they admit their feelings, the story shits to the secondary plot, which is a haunting of the baron’s manor, and that part dragged a bit, but overall very well written and light.
July 13, 2026
This was ultimately a really cute story! The magic in this story was really fun and the characters were fleshed out so that individuality was there. I got Ella Enchanted Vibes just from banter. If this extended into a series of demon mysteries needing to be solved by the FMC and MMC I would totally continue to read. I was pleasantly surprised!! I will not lie, the title completely made me rethink before reading. But in another sense it was the reason I chose this book. Overall, i'm really happy I took the chance !
May 5, 2026
I absolutely love this book. It’s a Bridgerton adaption of the princess and the pea. I was very lucky in the fact I got to beta read this book. I absolutely love the magical elements that twist together the two main characters in the tale. It’s full of angst and drama. The book flows so well and I utterly devoured it even more do this time. The chapters flowed seamlessly and the storyline was perfect !! 🥰
May 16, 2026
I received this book as an ARC. I loved this book so much being a fairy tail retelling is what made me interested and I wasn’t disappointed. Sadie is an amazing main character I love how she develops through the book. Nicholas is so sweet helping her to stop hiding her true self. The spice scenes when they use magic is just amazing. Take the time to read this book it’s magical, romantic and funny.
May 20, 2026
What an absolutely addictive cosy story! Now that is how I like my fairytale retelling! Honestly it was so utterly good I've had to immediately go find her other books to add to my TBR! If you're looking for a cosy romance, with a dash of intrigue, mystery and danger with lovable side characters this is for you! Thank you so much for the ARC copy I was lucky enough to receive from the author! I don't think I've added an author to my autobuy list this quickly in a while!
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