What do you think?
Rate this book
How to Make a Love Potion
- GenresDark RomanceRomance
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2026
21 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 28, 2026
What a fun experience this book was! My first ever monster romance and I think I’d even label this as splatterpunk? Just a bit, unless I’m too naive to this genre and it really wasn’t that “graphic” when it came to the violent scenes 😂
This book follows our man hating, man eating succubus Iris our FMC and her friend turned fake dating lover MMC, Elliot who’s a werewolf with actual ears and tail of a wolf that exists on his human form. They’re both university students (think a world like Hogwarts + additional creatures and way more black characters) and so most of the story takes places on different parts of this campus.
Something devastating happens on this campus and uncharacteristically, Elliot decides to help his friend Iris and just because he’s a MAN, she naturally hates him, right? Right? Right?!?!
That’s when the story get’s juicy, in addition to that tension of the two MCs we also have elements of :
- gossip girl (someone stalking the two and making life miserable)
- fake dating (i mentioned already, but there’s more than one couple doing this)
- friends with benefits (oops did i forget mention that before they decided to fake date, they already had a spicy little arrangement going on?)
And so many other fun surprises scattered throughout. The author’s writing was very descriptive and I appreciated the way she explained emotions, sensations, and everything in between. However there were a few moments where I’d get a little confused about what a character was doing or experiencing and caused me to re read a line a few times and took me out of the story. That’s the only reason for 4.8/5 stars. But I think I’ll still ponder on this and see if I’ll just give the full 5 stars. I’m writing this review RIGHT AFTER finishing the book so I have some time to let the story replay in my head.
Love love loved it though, highly recommend if you enjoy monster romances and Jennifer’s Body esque rhetoric
This book follows our man hating, man eating succubus Iris our FMC and her friend turned fake dating lover MMC, Elliot who’s a werewolf with actual ears and tail of a wolf that exists on his human form. They’re both university students (think a world like Hogwarts + additional creatures and way more black characters) and so most of the story takes places on different parts of this campus.
Something devastating happens on this campus and uncharacteristically, Elliot decides to help his friend Iris and just because he’s a MAN, she naturally hates him, right? Right? Right?!?!
That’s when the story get’s juicy, in addition to that tension of the two MCs we also have elements of :
- gossip girl (someone stalking the two and making life miserable)
- fake dating (i mentioned already, but there’s more than one couple doing this)
- friends with benefits (oops did i forget mention that before they decided to fake date, they already had a spicy little arrangement going on?)
And so many other fun surprises scattered throughout. The author’s writing was very descriptive and I appreciated the way she explained emotions, sensations, and everything in between. However there were a few moments where I’d get a little confused about what a character was doing or experiencing and caused me to re read a line a few times and took me out of the story. That’s the only reason for 4.8/5 stars. But I think I’ll still ponder on this and see if I’ll just give the full 5 stars. I’m writing this review RIGHT AFTER finishing the book so I have some time to let the story replay in my head.
Love love loved it though, highly recommend if you enjoy monster romances and Jennifer’s Body esque rhetoric
April 30, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author. Thank you for the opportunity to review in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a really fun, fast-paced read! A blend of dark academia and paranormal romance. A magical university full of BLACK supernatural beings, a murder mystery, and fake dating to cover it up? Yeah… I kind of ate this up.
Iris is that girl—a literal man-eating succubus who doesn’t see it for men unless she’s feeding, yet underneath it all, she’s craving something genuine (even if she’d never admit it out loud). Elliot, a wolf shifter, is cursed in a way that shapes how he experiences the world, which makes his quiet, unwavering care for Iris hit even harder. Their dynamic is one of the strongest elements of the novel—balancing sharp banter, tension, and an underlying vulnerability that adds weight to their connection. They’re both a little dangerous and a little soft when it comes to each other, which made their relationship especially compelling.
Their relationship evolves from a friends-with-benefits arrangement into something far more emotionally complex, with both characters grappling with the very real fear of harming one another. This adds meaningful emotional stakes beyond the external plot, which is already layered with murder, blackmail, and secrets on secrets.
The story layers in a murder investigation, blackmail, and hidden motives, all set against a social environment filled with rumors and shifting perceptions, à la Gossip Girl. This adds an extra layer of intrigue and tension as information is constantly distorted and weaponized.
I’m excited to continue the series and dive into Dame and Elsie’s story next.
This was a really fun, fast-paced read! A blend of dark academia and paranormal romance. A magical university full of BLACK supernatural beings, a murder mystery, and fake dating to cover it up? Yeah… I kind of ate this up.
Iris is that girl—a literal man-eating succubus who doesn’t see it for men unless she’s feeding, yet underneath it all, she’s craving something genuine (even if she’d never admit it out loud). Elliot, a wolf shifter, is cursed in a way that shapes how he experiences the world, which makes his quiet, unwavering care for Iris hit even harder. Their dynamic is one of the strongest elements of the novel—balancing sharp banter, tension, and an underlying vulnerability that adds weight to their connection. They’re both a little dangerous and a little soft when it comes to each other, which made their relationship especially compelling.
Their relationship evolves from a friends-with-benefits arrangement into something far more emotionally complex, with both characters grappling with the very real fear of harming one another. This adds meaningful emotional stakes beyond the external plot, which is already layered with murder, blackmail, and secrets on secrets.
The story layers in a murder investigation, blackmail, and hidden motives, all set against a social environment filled with rumors and shifting perceptions, à la Gossip Girl. This adds an extra layer of intrigue and tension as information is constantly distorted and weaponized.
I’m excited to continue the series and dive into Dame and Elsie’s story next.
May 6, 2026
“𝔶𝔬𝔲’𝔯𝔢 𝔥𝔲𝔫𝔤𝔯𝔶 𝔣𝔬𝔯 𝔰𝔬𝔪𝔢𝔱𝔥𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔦 𝔠𝔞𝔫’𝔱 𝔤𝔦𝔳𝔢 𝔶𝔬𝔲. 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔦𝔱’𝔰 𝔨𝔦𝔩𝔩𝔦𝔫𝔤 𝔪𝔢.”
wow, wow, wow. this was EVERYTHING i needed and more! it took my reading slump and ripped it in half.
iris and elliot’s story is one of longing, pain, patience and loyalty. throughout the entire story, you can feel the agonizing yearning from both ends even if they don’t see it themselves. at so many points, my eyes were full of tears over their relationship and at other times, i was laughing so hard because their banter was just everything.
this is so different from anything i’ve read before and it was a breath of fresh air. a paranormal academic setting with so much going on that still has you questioning it when you finish will always have me on the edge of my seat.
i absolutely can’t wait for more in this world and to find out what’s going on with with the rest of the friend group!
thank you for the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy, ill absolutely be reading everything they put out!!
wow, wow, wow. this was EVERYTHING i needed and more! it took my reading slump and ripped it in half.
iris and elliot’s story is one of longing, pain, patience and loyalty. throughout the entire story, you can feel the agonizing yearning from both ends even if they don’t see it themselves. at so many points, my eyes were full of tears over their relationship and at other times, i was laughing so hard because their banter was just everything.
this is so different from anything i’ve read before and it was a breath of fresh air. a paranormal academic setting with so much going on that still has you questioning it when you finish will always have me on the edge of my seat.
i absolutely can’t wait for more in this world and to find out what’s going on with with the rest of the friend group!
thank you for the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy, ill absolutely be reading everything they put out!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
In a university filled with creatures of all kinds, Iris is the main attraction. All the guys stare, whisper, and drool when she walks by. Even though it’s annoying, they only see a monster while she sees food. Being a man eating/hating succubus, Iris doesn’t put up with any nonsense when it comes from a man, so when one tries to cause her harm, Iris defends herself. But this causes a problem that she can’t fix on her own, but her hero is a man. That man is Elliot Cross, a playboy cursed wolf who can’t feel emotions, the big one being love. Elliot will do anything to protect Iris with a smile on his face, so he covers for her.
This leads to an investigation where Iris and Elliot have to fake date to protect each other. They may have a solution for the investigation, but what about the blackmail that reveals itself? With love being an afterthought after so many years without it/never experiencing it, Iris and Elliot navigate this fake relationship while discovering each other and their desires. They aim to found out who is blackmailing them while making sure they take care of each other. Through it all, Elliot will make sure that Iris is full and all her needs are taken care of. Plus, this isn’t the first time he has fed her, so he is the right man for the job.
This was my first read from R.A. Moreau, and I loved every second of it. The banter between Iris and Elliot was chef’s kiss. I loved that even though Iris hated men, she always was comfortable with Elliot and seen him more than just food like all the other men. Even though Elliot can’t experience love, his actions spoke another word. He made sure Iris was good even before the investigation started and cared for her in ways he probably didn’t know. I loved that Elliot rarely called Iris by her name and used “Princess” or “Baby” instead. Even though it irked her a little, I just know she loved it. I was able to figure out the blackmailer after I narrowed the suspects down to two characters. I was surprised, but the clues were hiding in plain sight. Both characters are just what each other need, and I know their love will blossom forever. There were times in the story that I got a little confused about what was occurring in the story while I was reading, but I enjoyed myself and totally recommend. I can’t wait to see R.A. Moreau writes next for the Highcrest University Series.
P.S. I didn’t expect to cry while reading this book, but Elliot quickly changed my mind. (A good man Iris)
Tropes:
* Friends with Benefits
* Fake Dating
* Monster x Monster Romance
* College Romance
* Murder Investigation x Blackmail
This leads to an investigation where Iris and Elliot have to fake date to protect each other. They may have a solution for the investigation, but what about the blackmail that reveals itself? With love being an afterthought after so many years without it/never experiencing it, Iris and Elliot navigate this fake relationship while discovering each other and their desires. They aim to found out who is blackmailing them while making sure they take care of each other. Through it all, Elliot will make sure that Iris is full and all her needs are taken care of. Plus, this isn’t the first time he has fed her, so he is the right man for the job.
This was my first read from R.A. Moreau, and I loved every second of it. The banter between Iris and Elliot was chef’s kiss. I loved that even though Iris hated men, she always was comfortable with Elliot and seen him more than just food like all the other men. Even though Elliot can’t experience love, his actions spoke another word. He made sure Iris was good even before the investigation started and cared for her in ways he probably didn’t know. I loved that Elliot rarely called Iris by her name and used “Princess” or “Baby” instead. Even though it irked her a little, I just know she loved it. I was able to figure out the blackmailer after I narrowed the suspects down to two characters. I was surprised, but the clues were hiding in plain sight. Both characters are just what each other need, and I know their love will blossom forever. There were times in the story that I got a little confused about what was occurring in the story while I was reading, but I enjoyed myself and totally recommend. I can’t wait to see R.A. Moreau writes next for the Highcrest University Series.
P.S. I didn’t expect to cry while reading this book, but Elliot quickly changed my mind. (A good man Iris)
Tropes:
* Friends with Benefits
* Fake Dating
* Monster x Monster Romance
* College Romance
* Murder Investigation x Blackmail
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝑻𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒅𝒆𝒗𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒆𝒅.
How do you do it? This far exceeded my expectations and that's saying a lot because I gave Celestial Bodies 5 stars. Are you looking for a succubus FMC and a werewolf MMC? If so, this is what you must consume next! It was a perfect read, I have no criticism. This book gripped me in from the first chapter. How could it not, when you become introduced to Iris as she's feeding off a man.
Setting is a University where every person is supernatural, fae, etc. I don't think I've ever read a book with such a diverse cast of different fantasy races. Even if they weren't really present side characters, I loved the detail in the world building to tell us they were there.
Iris is a sassy strong women who doesn't take shit from no man. Elliot is a smartass wolf whose cursed to not have feelings outside of pain and anger. I absolutely loved them! As someone whose always been considered sassy and my partner is 100% a smartass, I could heavily relate to this relationship. The banter was 🤌, chiefs kiss!
𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅**𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇.
Before the big reveal took place on whose blackmailing our duo, I had figured out who it was. It definitely took me a bit of time, but when it was happening I was like it's __! The scene of it being revealed was done well and how the entire group went to find Elliot was everything, I loved it so much!
Elliot had me CRYING y'all! What do you mean he did that. Oh my freaking gosh, I didn't expect that but the aftermath was so heartwarming!
🐺Succubus x Werewolf
✨University Setting
🐺Banter for days
✨Fake Dating
🐺Blackmail
How do you do it? This far exceeded my expectations and that's saying a lot because I gave Celestial Bodies 5 stars. Are you looking for a succubus FMC and a werewolf MMC? If so, this is what you must consume next! It was a perfect read, I have no criticism. This book gripped me in from the first chapter. How could it not, when you become introduced to Iris as she's feeding off a man.
Setting is a University where every person is supernatural, fae, etc. I don't think I've ever read a book with such a diverse cast of different fantasy races. Even if they weren't really present side characters, I loved the detail in the world building to tell us they were there.
Iris is a sassy strong women who doesn't take shit from no man. Elliot is a smartass wolf whose cursed to not have feelings outside of pain and anger. I absolutely loved them! As someone whose always been considered sassy and my partner is 100% a smartass, I could heavily relate to this relationship. The banter was 🤌, chiefs kiss!
𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅**𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇.
Before the big reveal took place on whose blackmailing our duo, I had figured out who it was. It definitely took me a bit of time, but when it was happening I was like it's __! The scene of it being revealed was done well and how the entire group went to find Elliot was everything, I loved it so much!
Elliot had me CRYING y'all! What do you mean he did that. Oh my freaking gosh, I didn't expect that but the aftermath was so heartwarming!
🐺Succubus x Werewolf
✨University Setting
🐺Banter for days
✨Fake Dating
🐺Blackmail
Review of advance copy received from Author
(ARC Review) Full length review coming soon but if I could give this 6 stars I would. The character development? The friendship dynamics? Everything about this did exactly what I needed it to do AND MORE. The twist definitely caught me off guard and the ending was a beautiful bow on a beautiful story 😩
Full review:
Iris is not only a man hating succubus she is THE man hating succubus. She sees men as nothing else but a means to end for her hunger and they can’t even do that right. Elliot is the playboy cursed werewolf with a personality that woos … except Iris usually wants to punch him, unless he’s feeding her of course.
When Iris finds her self in a mess she can’t handle on her own Elliot steps up in ways she wouldn’t have ever expected from him. Unfortunately they missed something, something big and now it’s becoming a problem.
As they work through this problem they find a strange sense of comfort as two lonely people together. Maybe this thing could work? Or not? When Iris learns what Elliot’s curse entails she is concerned with where this thing is going to go. Don’t forget that big problem…that definitely doesn’t get handled quickly.
YALL I didn’t know what to expect but I LOVED this so bad. The development of the main characters and how they interact with each other was amazing. I love that Iris kept her man hating spirit throughout the book and Elliot always had something to say right back. The twist made me want to FIGHT and I unexpectedly cried? I don’t cry at books…ever…but Elliot did it for me. 5 stars and 4 chili peppers (smut is amazing btw great smut to plot ratio)
Full review:
Iris is not only a man hating succubus she is THE man hating succubus. She sees men as nothing else but a means to end for her hunger and they can’t even do that right. Elliot is the playboy cursed werewolf with a personality that woos … except Iris usually wants to punch him, unless he’s feeding her of course.
When Iris finds her self in a mess she can’t handle on her own Elliot steps up in ways she wouldn’t have ever expected from him. Unfortunately they missed something, something big and now it’s becoming a problem.
As they work through this problem they find a strange sense of comfort as two lonely people together. Maybe this thing could work? Or not? When Iris learns what Elliot’s curse entails she is concerned with where this thing is going to go. Don’t forget that big problem…that definitely doesn’t get handled quickly.
YALL I didn’t know what to expect but I LOVED this so bad. The development of the main characters and how they interact with each other was amazing. I love that Iris kept her man hating spirit throughout the book and Elliot always had something to say right back. The twist made me want to FIGHT and I unexpectedly cried? I don’t cry at books…ever…but Elliot did it for me. 5 stars and 4 chili peppers (smut is amazing btw great smut to plot ratio)
April 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ FUN FUN !! Creepy ??SEXY FUN!!!
This was SUCH a fun time.
Academic .. collage romance..🔥🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️ buttt hold onnn they’re monsters!!
The banter? Top tier. Yuppp I’m a sucker for the back and fourth ..Like actually one of the best parts of the book. I didn’t want to stop reading anytime they were going at it . Super unique!!!! not what I’m used to, but in the best way. This was an easy, quick read. BINGE APPROVED! Sooo..when I heard it had Jennifer’s Body vibes?? Say lesssss . Everyone remembers Jennifer’s body!! A Classic.
The spice was spicing it was up there… steamy is a perfect way to describe it 😮💨🔥the characters were fun, and the whole vibe was just… a VIBE.. RA is very descriptive and the entire mood was set and I loved that… a lot. Also ! MAM can we talk about the character art?? Because that alone will have you SOLD before you even start. Perfectionnnn
This was my first R.A Moreau read, and ittttt definitely will not be my last. I’m even more excited to finally pick up Celestial Bodies now! I Highly recommend this! Especially..if you want something different, steamy, and just a really good time!
I can’t stress the BANTER enough!!
I’m a spoiler free kind of girl but the tropes speak volumes!!
Friends with Benefits..Fake Dating..Jennifer’s Body Vibes..Monster x Monster Romance.. Gossip Girl Energy!!
Enjoy the fun ride!!!
Congratulations R.A 💕🫶🏽✨
This was SUCH a fun time.
Academic .. collage romance..🔥🔥🌶️🌶️🌶️ buttt hold onnn they’re monsters!!
The banter? Top tier. Yuppp I’m a sucker for the back and fourth ..Like actually one of the best parts of the book. I didn’t want to stop reading anytime they were going at it . Super unique!!!! not what I’m used to, but in the best way. This was an easy, quick read. BINGE APPROVED! Sooo..when I heard it had Jennifer’s Body vibes?? Say lesssss . Everyone remembers Jennifer’s body!! A Classic.
The spice was spicing it was up there… steamy is a perfect way to describe it 😮💨🔥the characters were fun, and the whole vibe was just… a VIBE.. RA is very descriptive and the entire mood was set and I loved that… a lot. Also ! MAM can we talk about the character art?? Because that alone will have you SOLD before you even start. Perfectionnnn
This was my first R.A Moreau read, and ittttt definitely will not be my last. I’m even more excited to finally pick up Celestial Bodies now! I Highly recommend this! Especially..if you want something different, steamy, and just a really good time!
I can’t stress the BANTER enough!!
I’m a spoiler free kind of girl but the tropes speak volumes!!
Friends with Benefits..Fake Dating..Jennifer’s Body Vibes..Monster x Monster Romance.. Gossip Girl Energy!!
Enjoy the fun ride!!!
Congratulations R.A 💕🫶🏽✨
April 30, 2026
Here’s a polished, fun, and slightly chaotic review you can post:
⸻
I just finished How to Make a Love Potion and let me tell you… this book came in HOT from chapter one. No slow burn intro here—it literally starts with a bang and I was locked in immediately.
A man-eating succubus + a playboy werewolf?? Yeah… say less. That combo alone had me hooked, but the writing? The banter? The chaos?? I couldn’t look away.
Elliot Cross… sir 😮💨 you have officially secured a top spot in my MMC ranking. This man is hilarious, unhinged in the best way, and his dynamic with Iris is EVERYTHING. Their banter is sharp, flirty, and straight-up addictive.
And don’t even get me started on the fake dating… because WHY did it feel so real?? I genuinely forgot at one point like hello?? Are we still pretending or??? Elliot really said “method acting” and committed.
Favorite line:
“Shut up before I feed you to my girlfriend.”
I was GONE. Absolutely gone. 💀
Both Iris and Elliot had me falling hard, and their love language being… leaving presents?? Dark, weird, and kinda cute?? I’m obsessed.
Overall: I was giggling, kicking my feet, and fully entertained from start to finish. This book did NOT disappoint and I’m still not over it 🤭
⸻
I just finished How to Make a Love Potion and let me tell you… this book came in HOT from chapter one. No slow burn intro here—it literally starts with a bang and I was locked in immediately.
A man-eating succubus + a playboy werewolf?? Yeah… say less. That combo alone had me hooked, but the writing? The banter? The chaos?? I couldn’t look away.
Elliot Cross… sir 😮💨 you have officially secured a top spot in my MMC ranking. This man is hilarious, unhinged in the best way, and his dynamic with Iris is EVERYTHING. Their banter is sharp, flirty, and straight-up addictive.
And don’t even get me started on the fake dating… because WHY did it feel so real?? I genuinely forgot at one point like hello?? Are we still pretending or??? Elliot really said “method acting” and committed.
Favorite line:
“Shut up before I feed you to my girlfriend.”
I was GONE. Absolutely gone. 💀
Both Iris and Elliot had me falling hard, and their love language being… leaving presents?? Dark, weird, and kinda cute?? I’m obsessed.
Overall: I was giggling, kicking my feet, and fully entertained from start to finish. This book did NOT disappoint and I’m still not over it 🤭
May 6, 2026
Thank you to the author for the ARC. This truly was such an enjoyable read. If you're a fan of the Maggie Gray series by Granger, this is the book for you!! Iris is a man eating succubus who's a student at a magical university with all different types of creatures. Her friend, Elliot, is a werewolf, and after a wild Fight Night, they end up fake dating while trying to uncover a mystery.
I absolutely loved the writing style, it was easy to follow and the worldbuilding was detailed enough to immerse me into this world. The characters were well flushed out while leaving room for a potential series following either of her friends, Kitty and Elsie. We watch as both Iris and Elliot grow and evolve, while trying to fight against fate.
I think the ending wrecked me most because while I did have my suspicions, seeing it play out really left me like "WOOOOOW, are you fr?" Plus, Elliot made the greatest sacrifice and if thats not love, idk what is...
ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED THIS!! R.A MOREAU ATE AND LEFT NO CRUMBS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What to expect:
🔮 Gossip Girl vibes (someone blackmailing & so many secrets)
✨ Jennifer's Body
💘 Succubus FMC x Werewolf MMC
🔮 Fake Dating
✨ Spicyyy + Knotting
💘 Magical HBCU / College Romance
I absolutely loved the writing style, it was easy to follow and the worldbuilding was detailed enough to immerse me into this world. The characters were well flushed out while leaving room for a potential series following either of her friends, Kitty and Elsie. We watch as both Iris and Elliot grow and evolve, while trying to fight against fate.
I think the ending wrecked me most because while I did have my suspicions, seeing it play out really left me like "WOOOOOW, are you fr?" Plus, Elliot made the greatest sacrifice and if thats not love, idk what is...
ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED THIS!! R.A MOREAU ATE AND LEFT NO CRUMBS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What to expect:
🔮 Gossip Girl vibes (someone blackmailing & so many secrets)
✨ Jennifer's Body
💘 Succubus FMC x Werewolf MMC
🔮 Fake Dating
✨ Spicyyy + Knotting
💘 Magical HBCU / College Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with this arc!
This book was absolutely amazing! I have been wanting to read more monster romances and this was perfect amount of plot and romance for me!
The characters are so interesting and have their own flaws that make them so real to read about. The plot had me hooked and turned "I'll read a chapter before bed" to 50% through the book 😭
This university setting is so fun and seeing the side characters has me really excited for future books!
Both main characters are so down bad for each other but in such a new refreshing way. This type of dynamic between characters isn't in many books I read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. (I mean a man whos literally cursed to not feel anything but is utterly obsessed with her??? I needed that lol)
Thier romance felt so believable as there was already an established relationship and trust at the beginning of this book which made the smut scenes way more intense while also making their banter feel more relaxed and realistic.
Overall, would highly recommend this book to monster romance lovers but also to those who want to try out the genre! I loved this 🥹🫶
This book was absolutely amazing! I have been wanting to read more monster romances and this was perfect amount of plot and romance for me!
The characters are so interesting and have their own flaws that make them so real to read about. The plot had me hooked and turned "I'll read a chapter before bed" to 50% through the book 😭
This university setting is so fun and seeing the side characters has me really excited for future books!
Both main characters are so down bad for each other but in such a new refreshing way. This type of dynamic between characters isn't in many books I read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. (I mean a man whos literally cursed to not feel anything but is utterly obsessed with her??? I needed that lol)
Thier romance felt so believable as there was already an established relationship and trust at the beginning of this book which made the smut scenes way more intense while also making their banter feel more relaxed and realistic.
Overall, would highly recommend this book to monster romance lovers but also to those who want to try out the genre! I loved this 🥹🫶
April 30, 2026
How to Make a Love Potion is a must read! I absolutely loved the dynamic between Iris and Elliot, it’s so authentic but also emotionally intense! I love paranormal fantasies, the mix of creatures and magic is so fun to see. This book perfectly captured that kind of chaotic mix and masterfully balanced world-building, spice and plot!
I saw a lot of my younger self in Iris’s character in ways that were difficult but also satisfying. Being different and often objectified but also being confident and surrounded by supportive and caring friends is something that I think many of us can relate to. R. A beautifully captured the severity of trauma, heartbreak, grief and isolation in her characters creating something absolutely poetic.
I fell in love with Elliot and his story. His pain and his struggles were so profound, but his character exuded playfulness and that is something else that resonated deeply with me.
This read was very rewarding for me! I can’t wait to physically have this book in my hands! Take you so much R. A Moreau for sharing this ARC, it was truly a privilege to read 💕
I saw a lot of my younger self in Iris’s character in ways that were difficult but also satisfying. Being different and often objectified but also being confident and surrounded by supportive and caring friends is something that I think many of us can relate to. R. A beautifully captured the severity of trauma, heartbreak, grief and isolation in her characters creating something absolutely poetic.
I fell in love with Elliot and his story. His pain and his struggles were so profound, but his character exuded playfulness and that is something else that resonated deeply with me.
This read was very rewarding for me! I can’t wait to physically have this book in my hands! Take you so much R. A Moreau for sharing this ARC, it was truly a privilege to read 💕
April 30, 2026
Iris Ashbourne is the most envied and desired succubus on Highcrest Campus; her counterpart is Elliot Cross, a resident of Crescent House, the beta of his pack and the shape-shifter most sought-after by the female population.
Both MCs harbour darkness within them, and they have no need for it to be exposed to make them appear weak.
Until, one evening, someone decides to dabble in magic, and their own greed leads to their demise, putting Iris in danger.
Elliot offers himself as a sacrifice by becoming her sole donor, even though he cannot fully satisfy the succubus as he would like.
But the tension is too palpable and alluring for both Iris and Elliot, driving them to act impulsively towards one another, just to protect what they consider their own!
To be honest, the ending was a bit of a mixed bag – impactful but also open-ended; so the question remains: will there be a sequel, or will we be left hanging?👀
Both MCs harbour darkness within them, and they have no need for it to be exposed to make them appear weak.
Until, one evening, someone decides to dabble in magic, and their own greed leads to their demise, putting Iris in danger.
Elliot offers himself as a sacrifice by becoming her sole donor, even though he cannot fully satisfy the succubus as he would like.
But the tension is too palpable and alluring for both Iris and Elliot, driving them to act impulsively towards one another, just to protect what they consider their own!
To be honest, the ending was a bit of a mixed bag – impactful but also open-ended; so the question remains: will there be a sequel, or will we be left hanging?👀
May 2, 2026
Thank you R.A. Moreau for the ARC of How to Make a Love Potion!
Elliot🩷 I need me one of him please!!!
Iris🖤 such a great MC. Loved her snark, her confidence, her personality entirely, he devotion and smartness✨️
Their dynamic was everything! So adorable yet fierce. I could feel the love between this two through my phone screen and that says a lot.
The way Elliot tried his all to do one thing Iris needed was truly heartbreaking but admirable✨️ I loved him more for that.
The world itself and the side characters were rather interesting, although I'd love if they were fleshed out more. I found myself confused in some part for the lack of not having enough info about how the world works, but it was not deterring.
Although, I gotta add just how much I love the vibes of this book and how the colours of the cover fit so unexplainably well.🩷🖤
I need more Iris&Elliot content author!!
Elliot🩷 I need me one of him please!!!
Iris🖤 such a great MC. Loved her snark, her confidence, her personality entirely, he devotion and smartness✨️
Their dynamic was everything! So adorable yet fierce. I could feel the love between this two through my phone screen and that says a lot.
The way Elliot tried his all to do one thing Iris needed was truly heartbreaking but admirable✨️ I loved him more for that.
The world itself and the side characters were rather interesting, although I'd love if they were fleshed out more. I found myself confused in some part for the lack of not having enough info about how the world works, but it was not deterring.
Although, I gotta add just how much I love the vibes of this book and how the colours of the cover fit so unexplainably well.🩷🖤
I need more Iris&Elliot content author!!
April 30, 2026
I’m obsessed. I don’t think it’s too early to say that this is one of my top reads for the year. Thank you so much to the author for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. This was my first book by R.A. Moreau and I can confidently say I’m eager to read more.
I’ve been on a roll recently. All the books I’ve been reading in the past weeks have been amazing pieces of fantasy and romance but they have also been emotionally taxing in a way I usually try to avoid back-to-back. This book was exactly what I needed times a million.
The relationship between Iris and Elliott was something I couldn’t get enough of from their very first interaction. I loved their banter and how down bad for he was. Ugh I could rave about this forever.
I’m probably going to edit this book at another time when I’ve probably established all my thoughts but I just needed to get this out for now.
I’ve been on a roll recently. All the books I’ve been reading in the past weeks have been amazing pieces of fantasy and romance but they have also been emotionally taxing in a way I usually try to avoid back-to-back. This book was exactly what I needed times a million.
The relationship between Iris and Elliott was something I couldn’t get enough of from their very first interaction. I loved their banter and how down bad for he was. Ugh I could rave about this forever.
I’m probably going to edit this book at another time when I’ve probably established all my thoughts but I just needed to get this out for now.
May 3, 2026
Arc review
What if you were cursed to never feel love? That question has plagued me this whole book and much like Elliot I’d probably lean in on the other feelings I COULD feel. I truly didn’t think this book would be making it into my top 10 of the year, BUT IT DID. It’s not my normal genre but the character art got me. Hook line and sinker. I mean imagine yourself ‘lusting’ over someone for YEARS with no end in sight or being a succubus who never gets a moment of not being hungry. It’s so hard to say what I want to without spoilers… because all I can say is if you like supernatural, when will they figure this love thing out, a devastatingly handsome man claiming a disgustingly beautiful woman please read this. Maybe it will also end up highly rated on your book trophy life too!
What if you were cursed to never feel love? That question has plagued me this whole book and much like Elliot I’d probably lean in on the other feelings I COULD feel. I truly didn’t think this book would be making it into my top 10 of the year, BUT IT DID. It’s not my normal genre but the character art got me. Hook line and sinker. I mean imagine yourself ‘lusting’ over someone for YEARS with no end in sight or being a succubus who never gets a moment of not being hungry. It’s so hard to say what I want to without spoilers… because all I can say is if you like supernatural, when will they figure this love thing out, a devastatingly handsome man claiming a disgustingly beautiful woman please read this. Maybe it will also end up highly rated on your book trophy life too!
May 5, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book like Iris devours men!! I loved the chemistry between Elliot and Iris. Their banter was seriously top-notch. Watching Iris and Elliot grow their trust was magical. Not only was the plot growing intense, but so was the situationship between the two. I love me a MMC who isn't afraid to show up and show out. That's exactly what this werewolf did! Whatever his Princess wanted, she got. We love a man who doesn't let his girl go hungry! Of course, I can't forget Iris, who's a baddie that isn't afraid to bite. From her smart mouth to her outfits, she's a 10 out of 10.
Thank you so much to R.A. Moreau for allowing me to ARC this book. Absolutely loved it! I cannot wait to read more.
Thank you so much to R.A. Moreau for allowing me to ARC this book. Absolutely loved it! I cannot wait to read more.
May 6, 2026
Taking a simple Historically Black College experience and turning it Urban Fantasy Omegaverse has created something so powerful that it has rendered me catatonic on it's completion.
A cursed wolf and a Succubus orbit each other through their schooling as they grapple with their Demons.
Dialogue: electric
Characters: vivid, detailed, fully fleshed out
Romance: granular
Spice: Fucking Inferno
If you've EVER watched Richard Roxburgh's Van Helsing and wanted the black werewolf, HE IS HERE!
Elliot Cross *is* that werewolf when he shifts.
This is a Cozy story, where the side characters and the spice are the plot. There is so much adoration and consent in the air that you will be begging for more by the end.
Truly a must read of the genre, and the standard by which simping should be judged
A cursed wolf and a Succubus orbit each other through their schooling as they grapple with their Demons.
Dialogue: electric
Characters: vivid, detailed, fully fleshed out
Romance: granular
Spice: Fucking Inferno
If you've EVER watched Richard Roxburgh's Van Helsing and wanted the black werewolf, HE IS HERE!
Elliot Cross *is* that werewolf when he shifts.
This is a Cozy story, where the side characters and the spice are the plot. There is so much adoration and consent in the air that you will be begging for more by the end.
Truly a must read of the genre, and the standard by which simping should be judged
May 1, 2026
I’d take desire over love.
This was funny, entertaining, kick your feet swooning, read in one seating! Plot, pacing, writing, romance, spice all perfection. I loved the way the plot reveled itself easily because the author gives you all these bread crumbs to follow it was very satisfying.
There is nothing like the feeling of a book being everything the author promised it would be!
Elliott is top tier book boo. Iris is a girl after my own heart. The friend group and side characters are all stars. R.A. Moreau couldn’t write a bad book if she tried!
This was funny, entertaining, kick your feet swooning, read in one seating! Plot, pacing, writing, romance, spice all perfection. I loved the way the plot reveled itself easily because the author gives you all these bread crumbs to follow it was very satisfying.
There is nothing like the feeling of a book being everything the author promised it would be!
Elliott is top tier book boo. Iris is a girl after my own heart. The friend group and side characters are all stars. R.A. Moreau couldn’t write a bad book if she tried!
May 1, 2026
I didn’t want it to end 😩
I had the privilege… the honor to read this book before it was released and baybee what an honor it was
I promise you I could have read 400 more pages of this book and I would have been completely ok with doing so.
From friends…ish with benefits to lovers. I enjoyed every moment of Iris and Elliot’s journey. This book had me pulling out my notebook to take notes… you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t lead detective on this case 🤭
One of my favorite reads so far this year!! If I could give it 6⭐️ I absolutely would!
I had the privilege… the honor to read this book before it was released and baybee what an honor it was
I promise you I could have read 400 more pages of this book and I would have been completely ok with doing so.
From friends…ish with benefits to lovers. I enjoyed every moment of Iris and Elliot’s journey. This book had me pulling out my notebook to take notes… you couldn’t tell me I wasn’t lead detective on this case 🤭
One of my favorite reads so far this year!! If I could give it 6⭐️ I absolutely would!
May 4, 2026
This was my favorite read of April. I am absolutely obsessed with Iris and Elliot. I loved their dynamic, their relationship, their banter, how they respected and cared for each other.
I always enjoy a university setting plus faking dating so I knew that this book would be perfect for me. I am excited to see how Moreau continues to expand on the setting in subsequent books. She laid the foundation for what can be a very rich supernatural world, and I hope we go deeper in the sequels. Also, give me all the bonus scenes, I’m begging.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author
I always enjoy a university setting plus faking dating so I knew that this book would be perfect for me. I am excited to see how Moreau continues to expand on the setting in subsequent books. She laid the foundation for what can be a very rich supernatural world, and I hope we go deeper in the sequels. Also, give me all the bonus scenes, I’m begging.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author
May 4, 2026
I absolutely loved every minute of this book! The characters just pull you in and make it so hard for you to put the book down! I also couldn’t wait to figure out who their “friend” was.
I love that the book almost immediately started with murder (justified but whatever). The book perfectly untangled the mess and developed a heartwarming romance along the way.
I do wish there was a little more world-building early on. In the beginning, I was trying to make sense of exactly what powers/features the main characters had.
I love that the book almost immediately started with murder (justified but whatever). The book perfectly untangled the mess and developed a heartwarming romance along the way.
I do wish there was a little more world-building early on. In the beginning, I was trying to make sense of exactly what powers/features the main characters had.
Review of advance copy received from Author
R.A Moreau wasted no time getting to this fast paced story with so many twists and turns. I read it in less than a day because I couldn't put it down. It's a love story. But there is so much more than that. Iris and Elliot. Just *sigh* I love them. I will now sit on my hands waiting for Fate & Other Drugs because I need to know what happens now!
May 5, 2026
4.5 stars ONLY because I wish she consumed/drained more men, and I wish there was more character growth
Otherwise loved it all, consenual love, sex/smut that supported the story, characters had personality.
If love werewolves and succubus' , and possibly a scene that involves sex with mmc shifted form. This is the book
Otherwise loved it all, consenual love, sex/smut that supported the story, characters had personality.
If love werewolves and succubus' , and possibly a scene that involves sex with mmc shifted form. This is the book
Review of advance copy received from Author
Full review to come but I did not have crying into an espresso martini over a smutty monster romance on my 2026 bingo card and YET
If I said this was one of my top romances for the year so far, what now???
If I said this was one of my top romances for the year so far, what now???
May 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this book; and the concept of a black main characters in a fantasy setting. The storyline of all the characters were really well developed.
May 5, 2026
I loved this book.
May 7, 2026
ARC read it took a moment for me to get into the story I don’t like how it started or how the FMC talk
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews