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Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions #11

Charles's Story: Pride & Prejudice & Potions

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(This is Book 11 in the Pride & Prejudice & Potions Series.)The only thing worse than seeing the girl who got away? Finding her standing over a dead body.

Charles Bingley has regretted leaving Austen Heights—and Jane Bennet—ever since his best friend convinced him to walk away. So when an unexpected inheritance brings him home, he is determined to win back the woman he never stopped loving. But their long-awaited reunion is shattered when they stumble upon a murder victim and the police suspect Jane.

Teaming up to find the real killer gives Charles a second chance—one he refuses to waste. As they follow clues through a town full of friendly faces, Charles must do more than solve a mystery. He has to prove to Jane that he loves her and that this time, he’s here to stay.

141 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 3, 2026

3 people are currently reading
10 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Cowart

7 books6 followers
Michelle Cowart loves paddle boarding, baking, playing board games, and watching musical theater. She recently got into gardening because her friend planted a load of flowers in her yard and told her not to kill them. She lives in Washington State with her husband and five kids.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Profile Image for Michaela | bumblebeeslibrary.
173 reviews42 followers
January 26, 2026
Charle's Story, book 11 in the series, I have been looking forward to this one since book 1 and then book 5!

Finally, we get to read Charles's story and the conclusion to Charles's and Jane's love story! But, as we know, these are not just cozy romance stories, but also cozy mysteries, so there is yet another murder to solve! Charles is back in Austen Heights to pickup a dog named Jaro that he has inherited. He was debating coming back, but the immediate need to get Jaro pushed him into action. While at the animal shelter, he runs into Jane, and of course, a mysterious murder. Unfortunately, Jane looks like suspect number 1, but Charles knows Jane is not the culprit and is determined to clear her name, while also proving his love to her.

I loved reading more about Charles, I feel like he is one of the kindest characters in Austen Heights, and uses his fae healing abilities every chance he can. He is back at Netherfield, and I again just adore the house and how it supplies the inhabitants with what they need, or what it thinks they need. Jaro is such a cute and fun addition to the story, and it made me like Charles even more that he was excited to get home to Jaro and tell the dog about his day. I talk to my dogs all the time, so can relate to Charles in that way! Charles frequents Cupid's Confections, not only to see Jane, but also because he loves their cinnamon rolls, and every time he eats one it sure made me want a yummy treat!

Charles and Jane are sadly not strangers to solving a murder case together, so they work their best to find clues to the mystery. Charles again shows how kindhearted he is when they finally determine who the culprit is, Charles offers the person to give themself up, rather than forcing a confession.

There are also plenty of fun times with the Bennet sisters, and such a happy ending! Oh and Hermes the winged cat sounds so adorable!

I cannot wait for the concluding story about Darcy!!

Some fav quotes:
"I was a single man in possession of a good fortune, so naturally I was in want of a wife. But I couldn't even get a girlfriend, or at least not the one I wanted."

"...I drove back to Netherfield to tell Jaro all about the evening."

"Kissing Jane was everything I remembered and more. I pulled her closer, deepening the kiss..."

"Jaro had slept in my room on a fluffy dog bed provided by Netherfield. The house had supplied a dog bed in almost every room of the house."

"Hermes and Jaro were just as adorable together as I had imagined. Jaro brought his toys to Hermes one by one, laying them at the winged cat's feet before padding off to get another."

Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this book!
Profile Image for Kez Marie.
1,279 reviews77 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 31, 2026
I really enjoyed seeing Charles perspective. He always has a positive outlook on life, is very trusting, and finds it hard to believe anyone can do wrong.
This time he's helping to solve a murder at the animal shelter, and trying to clear Jane's name, while he also figures out how to tell Jane he loves her.
I enjoyed the themes of forgiveness and second chances, and the animal adoptions were a sweet addition and very fitting to Charles and Janes kindhearted characters. This story had a lot of compassion and kindness.
Profile Image for Marie  Reed.
Author 5 books79 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
"she's everything to me."

I have really been looking forward to Charles' POV and am glad his book did his character justice. He lives completely in the moment, but finally comes to the realization that in order to be worthy of Jane he needs to show his consistency and figure out what he wants out of life.

The mystery was an interesting one, somehow with a ton of new characters even though this is book 11 of the series. I did have this one figured out, but the mystery wasn't the most important part of this story to me, so it didn't bother me that it was a little more easy to put together than some of them have been.
Profile Image for T || .
225 reviews
February 3, 2026
book 11 in the series, ive arc read them all so far. this one is definitely one of my faves
Profile Image for The Book Nerd's Corner.
617 reviews13 followers
February 6, 2026
Charles Bingley gets his second chance at a second chance romance in this cozy romantasy mystery retelling of Austen's "Pride and Prejudice."

Charles Bingley has already blown his chance at love with Jane Bennet twice before, but he is desperate to prove to her that he is the real deal. When an unexpected inheritance gives him an excuse to return to Austen Heights, he takes it as the perfect opportunity to reunite with Jane. Unfortunately, he finds Jane standing over a dead body and the cops declare her a person of interest in the investigation. Willing to go to great lengths to solve the murder, Charles teams up with Jane once more to crack another case.

Charles is such a sweet boy, so it was an absolute joy to dwell in his head for a while. This young gent is such a people person (I can't relate) that it is hard not to fall deeply in love with his entire being. Pair him with the most well-behaved dog on the planet and the sweetest cinnamon roll of a girl, and we have the cutest little group ever. Charles has the ability to heal others, which only adds to his sweet nature and his willingness to do good. Charles is truly a green flag of a boyfriend.

I enjoyed the murder mystery element of this one. It involves a pet shelter, so having a bunch of animals around added to the cozy feel. Despite not knowing any of the staff members before this book, I found that I actually cared about most of the people at the shelter. Herb was a special addition to this story, especially due to the scene in which Charles goes and visits Herb's ailing wife with him. I did have this murder case solved halfway through the novel, but I was still surprised by a few of the details.

One of my favorite things about this installment was how many returning characters were present. Charles goes to a huge family dinner with the Bennets, so literally all of the Bennet sisters and their partners were present. Caroline and Louisa Bingley also make a few appearances as they are Charles's siblings. Even Charlotte, Anne, and Mr. Collins all showed up, so it sort of felt like a big family reunion.

It is hard for me to express just how excited I am to read Darcy's tale next. It was really great seeing Charles and Jane finally get together, but I am looking forward to Lizzy and Darcy pairing up even more. It is bittersweet that there is only one book left, because I've loved every moment I've spent in Austen Heights. I need to know more about Moonrot and the few other loose ends! Also, the fact that it's also set around Valentine's Day has me super excited.

Overall, "Charles's Story" was such a wholesome addition to this series. It was great to see Charles and Jane get together after two failed attempts in previous books. Who can say no to a second chance at a second chance at love? Seeing so many familiar faces was great, and it really felt like a huge reunion. The amount of animal companions in this also adds to the cozy vibes. Next up is the last book in the series, "Darcy's Story." I am so excited to finish this amazing series!
Profile Image for Rissa.
72 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 3, 2026
genre: Cozy paranormal romance
rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

📖abt the book:
*Pride & Prejudice retelling
*Supernatural beings & enchantment
*High fae x half fae/half witch
*Murder mystery
*Dog dad x cat mom
*Sunshine x Sunshine

🏍️my thoughts:
Let me just start by saying that Charles Bingley acted like a simp, but a clueless simp who didn't realize the girl he liked liked him back. I feel like the clumsy in love kind of vibes Bingley gave off in the original story and movie was perfectly showcased in his story!! I was cheesing the whole time because while one might call this man a simp (it's me, I am the one) it was also very endearing that he took up a sport he didn't really know about just for her, helped break into a de@d lady's house to rescue an abandoned flying kitty, and all of the amazing other things he did for her - I could go on and on but y'all should go read it to see what else he does (;

The murder mystery in this book honestly shocked me because the clues were RIGHT IN FRONT OF MY FACE, and I didn't get it until Charles figured out who it was towards the end of the book.. I will say nothing in my defense..

I am curious as to what Charles will do now that he's with Jane, since he had mentioned he wanted to quit being CEO but never actually had that conversation with Darcy afterwards. I'd like to think that he would do something within Austen Heights considering he'll be living at Netherfield and Jane will be doing her thing in AH, but I'm at a loss of what he would do..
Profile Image for Tracy.
74 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
In this episode of Pride &Prejudice & Potions we delve a bit futher in to Charles Bingleys story, in which you finally see him learning to trust his feelings and make the decisions that will change things for the better as he starts to do what he wants to do with his life not what is expected of him. As with each book we have mystery. Murder, love and excitement and of course a great sprinkling of magic. I have throughly enjoyed this book and I am now very excited and looking forward to the next instalment Darcy’s story. As with each book in this series this one is just as good as the last and it is a great series for curling up on a wet and dreary Sunday afternoon with a cuppa and just drifting off in the tales of Austen heights and the Bennett sisters.

I received this ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion. Thank you Michelle it was a great read.

Michelle Cowart

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Diamanti.
225 reviews7 followers
January 27, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the eleventh book in the Jane Austen Cozy Mysteries: Pride & Prejudice & Potions series.
If I were asked which books I was most looking forward to from this series when I first started reading it, it would be this one and the next one, as their stories consist of the couples I first met and loved the most.
The protagonists are Jane and Charles. And Charles is so sensitive, romantic and kind, that I loved him even more.
And in this book we see a murder and the mystery surrounding it. I would have liked it to be a little more intense, but it didn't spoil it for me. The cozy atmosphere was ideal and the magical creatures once again gave their nice touch to the story.
Her writing has convinced me and I always find it warm, tender and sweet. In addition, it has that something that I am looking for and want to read.
For all these reasons it's worth reading!

Many thanks to the author and @lauramdrakebooks for the eARC!

This is my honest review!
Profile Image for Josie Bookstagram.
358 reviews31 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
"I almost kissed her right there, but the knowledge that she might suspect another love potion restrained me." 💕

I’m still having such a great time with the Pride & Prejudice & Potions series and Charles’s Story was another really enjoyable installment. I love how the series has shifted into the male POVs now and it’s been so fun seeing the friendships and relationships from a different perspective now each with a new murder to solve. Charles was a great character to spend time with and his voice added depth and humour while still keeping that cosy, magical tone the series does so well.

The mystery element kept things moving nicely and I continue to enjoy how each author smoothly picks up where the last left off while still making the story feel fresh. This series really shines at blending gentle romance, paranormal elements and light suspense, making it an easy, comforting read that I always look forward to returning to.

Tropes & Themes:
🕵️ Cozy Mystery
🔮 Magic & Paranormal
🧛 Supernatural Romance
🫶 Found Family
🧩 Ongoing Series Continuity
🏡 Small, Close-Knit Community
18 reviews2 followers
February 4, 2026
This was such a feel-good return to Austen Heights and one I've been waiting for since early in the series. Getting Charles's POV was a total treat—he's just as kind, soft-hearted, and slightly clueless as we hoped, and watching him finally step up and go after Jane was incredibly satisfying. Their second-chance romance is sweet, awkward, and full of heart, with plenty of help from meddling sisters, magical potions, and lots of unspoken feelings. The mystery adds a fun push to bring them back together (even if some readers might guess it early), but the real highlight is Charles's emotional growth and his determination to clear Jane's name and prove he's all in. Netherfield is as charming as ever, the magical pets-especially Jaro and the winged cat-are scene stealers, and the cozy, Hallmark-style vibes are strong throughout. It's warm, gentle, and comforting, with themes of forgiveness, love, and finding the courage to choose what you truly want. A lovely installment that made me smile the whole way through and left me very ready (and slightly emotional) for Darcy's final story.
48 reviews2 followers
January 16, 2026
I’ve been waiting for this story since I started this series, they teased us with Jane’s story earlier in the series but that just made me want more. Charles is such a sweet man and seeing his side you can see how his upbringing and loyalties have made him pull away from his wants and needs more than once. This book is all about him finding what he wants and actually achieving it. I love how Charles and Jane are a unit they are both so caring and sweet and when put together they are basically sunshine and rainbows. Jaro also might be one of my favorite characters he has such a personality for a dog it makes the story that much better. Now I’m waiting for Darcy’s story and it’s going to be a toss up between Charles and Darcy for which one is my favorite. I received this book as an advanced reader copy and want to thank the author for allowing me to be on the team I’ve loved every second of it.
Profile Image for Irma Villaneda.
24 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 22, 2026
Finally Charles bites the bullet and goes for Jane! I really like reading about this couple they are such sweethearts and so shy with one another. I loved that Charles was able to express how he felt to Jane (with the help of the Bennet sisters and a potion) and to explain his side after everytbing that happened in their last encounter. I was happy to see him back in Netherfield Park the magical house that always knows what to add at the perfect time. Charles bond with his newly adopted dog Jaro was also so cute I was so happy Charles stepped in when Jaro suddenly lost his owner. It was heart warming to see him reconnect with his sister Louisa. Charles had a hard time accepting seeing his sister in prison but with the help of his sister Caroline and Jane he was able to reconnect. Really loved the ending with Charles proposing to Jane in the beautiful Netherfield Park helping and with his dog Jaro and her newly adopted cat Hermes. Such a happy ending!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
71 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 18, 2026
Charles Bingley believes his relationship with Jane Bennet can never be rekindled after his rapid departure from both Austen Heights and New York City at the direction of Darcy. Can Charles be the man Jane deserves and save her from being arrested or will he lose everything?

A cozy fun mystery settled in Austen Heights. A wonderful twist on Jane Austen with mystery, modern conveniences and a dash of romance. It was interesting to delve into Charles character’s thoughts and feelings after reading Jane’s. Fun characters and a surprise who done it. Best to read in order to avoid spoilers! Can’t wait for the final book of Darcy!

I received an advance copy but the thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Hannah Jewel.
116 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
Charles Bingley, the man you are 😭♥️

Once again, I absolutely adore how the author takes the original story and turns it into their own while staying true to Jane Austen.

If he wanted to he would, and he did! This one didn’t have much of a mystery aspect as some of the others, but I loved how it focused more on Charles’s journey of become more sure of himself and what he wanted and pursued it. Jane and Charles have always been one of my favorites, so this book really warmed my heart right up!

Having read Jane’s story and how it teased at their relationship, I have been dying to read Charles’s story!

I can’t believe the next book is the last! I have so enjoyed this series! 😭
62 reviews1 follower
February 3, 2026
Thank you to Michelle for the ARC. All thoughts are my own.

It was nice to revisit Jane and Charles. Much like with George I enjoyed seeing things from Charles's POV. He so Sweet and would do anything for Jane even play volleyball just to be close to her. I love his Characterization and how shy he was a sought out his sisters for dating advice.It made for cute/funny moments. And his healing abilities ugh made me want to cry. I enjoyed the animals I thought they were a nice side part to the story Jaro ❤️ and the Netherfield putting dog and cat things around the house so cute. Even with the murder mystery this installment felt light and fun at times and tugged alot on the heartstrings.
Profile Image for Beth DeLong.
248 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 24, 2026
Take charming Austen Heights and the two sweetest people in town, and it's no surprise this is such a sweet story! I appreciated the underlying themes of love, family, and seeing the good in everyone.

I also enjoyed that we got to see Louisa again and the role she played in Charles's story!

It's perfect if you want Hallmark Valentine movie feel-good vibes in cozy Pride & Prejudice form...with a dash of murder mystery. 😉

And be sure to read the acknowledgement section about Jaro. 🥺

⚠️No cursing
🫑Sweet kisses only

Thank you so much to the author for allowing me to ARC read!
Profile Image for Kellie- SpicedTeaandChapters.
62 reviews6 followers
February 4, 2026
I have been so excited to finally read this story! I absolutely loved Jane’s book, so getting to come back to Charles and Jane together was such a treat. It felt so comforting and exciting to step back into their world again.

This might honestly be one of my favorites in the entire series. Charles is one of the kindest, most genuine characters, and I couldn’t help but love him even more with every chapter.

The murder mystery element was done really well and kept me hooked, but what I loved most was how it naturally brought Jane and Charles back together. Watching their connection grow and their feelings deepen made the story even more enjoyable and emotionally satisfying. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Jaro, the oh-so-intelligent dog, and the winged kitty! Who doesn't love a magical pet or two!

And of course, I loved the ending (no spoilers, I promise!). I’m so excited to read the final book in the series… even though I’m also heartbroken knowing this journey is coming to an end.
26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 1, 2026
Jane and Charles's love story is the cutest. They want to be together but both worry they ruined it before. Can their love story have a happy ending?

Jane is the main suspect of a murder when she is found standing over the dead body. Charles does everything he can think of to try to prove her innocence and find the killer. Will he succeed or did Jane really do it? You'll find out if she is truly the killer and if their love will survive this turmoil in this Hallmark like cozy, magical murder mystery.
Profile Image for Annika Wall.
18 reviews
February 2, 2026
This series has been a great palate cleanser for me - but unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me. Coming off of Lydia and Wickham’s story, which was my favorite section so far, Charles felt like an underdeveloped character. Plus, the murder mystery element took a backseat to the romance element, and the writing style had way too much exposition told through dialogue instead of worldbuilding. Two stars for vibes alone and a wholesome romance, even if it shouldn’t have been the primary focus.
Profile Image for Jocelyn Reddoch.
31 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
4.75/5⭐️

Okay guys you might think I’m exaggerating, but this has been my FAVORITE story so far! I love Charles so much and his character is so genuine and sweet, I can’t help but feel jealous towards Jane for having this man’s heart haha!

This story has EVERYTHING, from Charles, hot abs(YES YOU HEARD THAT RIGHT), cute dog, WINGED KITTEN, Valentine’s Day vibes, this was the perfect story and I absolutely DEVOURED IT!

I can’t believe I’m almost done with this series, but I’m so excited to see what Darcy and Lizzy have in store for us🫶🏼
Profile Image for Samanta Simão.
71 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 16, 2026
Born into high lineage, Charles always seems to draw people wherever he goes, leading everyone to believe his life is endlessly happy. But that is not entirely true. At times, something feels missing — something believed to be lost forever, out of fear of other people’s opinions.

Then fate gives him the perfect excuse to return home. And Charles chooses to seize the moment, determined to try once again to fulfill his greatest dream: being with Jane.
Profile Image for FN.
369 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 20, 2026
I love Charles. His personality, loyalty and heart made me him impossible not to love. His previous abrupt departure pushed him away from Lizzy. When chances brought him back to Austen Height, he's ready to clear the path for himself and Lizzy. Told from Charles’s point of view, feelings and hope, this cozy romance blends mystery, and a sprinkle of magic that warm your heart.

I have good time reading this book, and thankful to be given the opportunity to read this in advance.
158 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 22, 2026
If you love a second chance romance, flower messages, cute dates, and a mystery this is a great book. Charles and Jane make a great couple to solve the mystery in this book. Their romance is cute and sprinkled throughout. Netherfield house is fun and I look forward to see what it comes up with next in decorations with the added family. With only one more book in the series I can't wait to see Darcy grovel to Lizzy.
Profile Image for Noëmi.
332 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 28, 2026
I love Charles and was really looking forward to reading his story. Bcs finally, finally! What a slow burn this was! The little push of the Bennet sisters that made he needed to realise what we all knew from the beginning, was adorable.

Loved the mystery, though this was the first I was able to solve right away. Didn‘t take away the joy of reading bcs the interaction with Charles and Jane were adorable. And who would have thought he was so packed (that volleyball scene was funny!)


Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,447 reviews37 followers
February 9, 2026
This is Book 11 in the Pride & Prejudice & Potions Series

A cozy and enjoyable read, and a satisfying conclusion to Charles and Jane’s love story. It’s interesting, comforting read with light suspense and plenty of charm.

We follows Charles as he helps solve a murder at the animal shelter and works to clear Jane’s name. He also is trying to figures out how to finally tell her he loves her at the same time.
Profile Image for The Book Ssirren.
2,041 reviews76 followers
January 21, 2026
this was an absolute love for me. go Charles! get your girl. I loved how an inheritance brought him home and gave him a second chance to prove his love to Jane. I was so smitten with this one. I bypassed most of the murder mystery because I was cheering for Charles to win over Jane. this one had me cheering, swooning... my heart was invested. my fave of them all so far.
973 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 24, 2026
This story is brilliant and clever, such a pleasure to read! Netherfield is fantastic as a sentient house, I smiled a lot at its antics. I love Charles, he is so talented and such a cinnamon roll, and Jane is gentle and sweet. As for Hermes: I want a winged cat, too!

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kellie.
201 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 27, 2026
Jane and Charles are just so cute together! It was great to watch their relationship grow even more over the course of the story. Also, the addition of cute animals in a book always helps, but I wish they were in it even more! I cannot wait for the final book of the series!
Profile Image for Amanda.
16 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 27, 2026
Charles got a new friend! And just because he was very nice to someone. It was so relieving to read Charles's story and walk through his compassion towards everyone despite a murder. And I really hope his healing powers help Mr. Bennet as much as the love around their house does!
Profile Image for EllasEnchantedReads.
144 reviews3 followers
February 2, 2026
Charles’s Story is a cozy fantasy with mystery, magic and romance. Another amazing story in this standalone series! I loved Charles and Jane so much and can’t wait to read the next installment! Thank you so much Michelle Cowart for a copy of this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews

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