What do you think?


Pumpkin Hollow
Potions and Paw Prints
From author Fleur DeVillainy, author of Spellbound Scones and Sky of Thorns comes a new fall romance full of laughter, magic, and pumpkin spice lattes.
For Evie Hawthorne, Halloween is the busiest season of the year. Guests are piling into her family’s haunted bed-and-breakfast, her aunts are up to their usual matchmaking tricks, and the resident ghosts are feeling extra mischievous. The last thing she needs is romance.
But when a rugged jaguar shifter checks in and accidentally gets mistaken for her boyfriend, Evie seizes the chance to silence the gossip. All they have to do is fake a relationship until Halloween passes—but nothing in Moon Hollow ever goes according to plan.
Between midnight ghost hunts, enchanted pumpkin patches, and one too many “pretend” kisses, Evie and Liam find themselves caught in a whirlwind of autumn magic. And as Halloween draws near, they’ll have to decide if their love story is only for show… or the beginning of something truly magical.
Potions and Paw Prints is a standalone novella in The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow, an autumn-inspired series of interconnected paranormal romances. Each book centers on a different witch living in the same magical small town, with every story written by a different author, bringing together a coven of voices to tell tales of love, magic, and pumpkin-spiced mischief.
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Small town
- Meet cute
- Age gap
- Fake Dating
- Opposites attract
- Slow burn to spicy
For Evie Hawthorne, Halloween is the busiest season of the year. Guests are piling into her family’s haunted bed-and-breakfast, her aunts are up to their usual matchmaking tricks, and the resident ghosts are feeling extra mischievous. The last thing she needs is romance.
But when a rugged jaguar shifter checks in and accidentally gets mistaken for her boyfriend, Evie seizes the chance to silence the gossip. All they have to do is fake a relationship until Halloween passes—but nothing in Moon Hollow ever goes according to plan.
Between midnight ghost hunts, enchanted pumpkin patches, and one too many “pretend” kisses, Evie and Liam find themselves caught in a whirlwind of autumn magic. And as Halloween draws near, they’ll have to decide if their love story is only for show… or the beginning of something truly magical.
Potions and Paw Prints is a standalone novella in The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow, an autumn-inspired series of interconnected paranormal romances. Each book centers on a different witch living in the same magical small town, with every story written by a different author, bringing together a coven of voices to tell tales of love, magic, and pumpkin-spiced mischief.
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Small town
- Meet cute
- Age gap
- Fake Dating
- Opposites attract
- Slow burn to spicy
- GenresParanormalHalloween
180 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2026
About the author
Fleur DeVillainy
18 books315 followersFleur DeVillainy
Indie Author
Fleur DeVillainy is an American fantasy author. In the realm of imagination, where love and enchantment intertwine, she crafts tales of extraordinary adventure interwoven with romance, internal growth and found family. By day, she brings healing to little hearts as a pediatric nurse practitioner. By night, she lets her pen dance across pages, weaving magical worlds and captivating characters. When not weaving tales, she finds solace in baking, sewing, and gardening. Join her on the many whimsical journeys through words and discover the wonders that lie within. Check out her series The Vandeleur Trilogy, her comic series Wolf and I, and her co-written Calpa series today!
If you want to know when Fleur’s next book will come out, please visit her social media and website.
Indie Author
Fleur DeVillainy is an American fantasy author. In the realm of imagination, where love and enchantment intertwine, she crafts tales of extraordinary adventure interwoven with romance, internal growth and found family. By day, she brings healing to little hearts as a pediatric nurse practitioner. By night, she lets her pen dance across pages, weaving magical worlds and captivating characters. When not weaving tales, she finds solace in baking, sewing, and gardening. Join her on the many whimsical journeys through words and discover the wonders that lie within. Check out her series The Vandeleur Trilogy, her comic series Wolf and I, and her co-written Calpa series today!
If you want to know when Fleur’s next book will come out, please visit her social media and website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
September 25, 2026
Sweet, cozy and funny—with enough heat to warm up those chilly fall nights and a little mystery on top! 🎃🍁
“𝖳𝖺𝗅𝗅, 𝖽𝖺𝗋𝗄, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖿𝗎𝗋𝗋𝗒,” 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖺𝗒𝗌 𝖺𝗌 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗀𝖺𝗓𝖾𝗌 𝗎𝗉 𝖺𝗍 𝗆𝖾 (…) “𝖨 𝗄𝗇𝖾𝗐 𝗂𝗍. 𝖨 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝗄𝗇𝖾𝗐 𝗂𝗍.”
🐾 Witch x Jaguar shifter
🧙♀️ Mystery
🧡 Fake dating
🏡 Small town
🎃 Halloween
🍁 Cozy fall vibes
🥮 Opposites attract
🔥 Slow burn to spicy
"𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝖺𝗌𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖨 𝗇𝖾𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝖺𝖻𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝖺 𝖼𝗎𝗋𝗏𝗒 𝖻𝗅𝗈𝗇𝖽𝖾 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌 𝗈𝗐𝗇𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗁𝗈 𝗋𝖺𝖽𝗂𝖺𝗍𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝗑𝗂𝖾𝗍𝗒 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝖺 𝗇𝗎𝖼𝗅𝖾𝖺𝗋 𝖻𝗈𝗆𝖻 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖼𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽𝗌 𝗆𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁𝗍𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗌𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾."
This was such a fun and cozy little fall read! With a haunted B&B, mischievous ghosts, some laughs, witchy vibes, a protective MMC and all the pumpkin-spiced magic, it really captures that cozy Halloween feeling 🍁🎃👻
“𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝖺 𝖽𝗈𝗓𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀𝗌 𝖨 𝗐𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝖾𝖺𝗍 𝗋𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍 𝗇𝗈𝗐, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗈𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗎.“
I also loved that there was a mystery woven into the story. It added a little something extra while still keeping this a quick and easy paranormal novella to curl up with on a fall night.
Thank you so much to Fleur Devillainy and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this before release 🧡
“𝖳𝖺𝗅𝗅, 𝖽𝖺𝗋𝗄, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖿𝗎𝗋𝗋𝗒,” 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗌𝖺𝗒𝗌 𝖺𝗌 𝗌𝗁𝖾 𝗀𝖺𝗓𝖾𝗌 𝗎𝗉 𝖺𝗍 𝗆𝖾 (…) “𝖨 𝗄𝗇𝖾𝗐 𝗂𝗍. 𝖨 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝗄𝗇𝖾𝗐 𝗂𝗍.”
🐾 Witch x Jaguar shifter
🧙♀️ Mystery
🧡 Fake dating
🏡 Small town
🎃 Halloween
🍁 Cozy fall vibes
🥮 Opposites attract
🔥 Slow burn to spicy
"𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝖺𝗌𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖨 𝗇𝖾𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝗐𝗈𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝖺𝖻𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝖺 𝖼𝗎𝗋𝗏𝗒 𝖻𝗅𝗈𝗇𝖽𝖾 𝖻𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗇𝖾𝗌𝗌 𝗈𝗐𝗇𝖾𝗋 𝗐𝗁𝗈 𝗋𝖺𝖽𝗂𝖺𝗍𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗇𝗑𝗂𝖾𝗍𝗒 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝖺 𝗇𝗎𝖼𝗅𝖾𝖺𝗋 𝖻𝗈𝗆𝖻 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖼𝗅𝗈𝗎𝖽𝗌 𝗆𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁𝗍𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗌𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾."
This was such a fun and cozy little fall read! With a haunted B&B, mischievous ghosts, some laughs, witchy vibes, a protective MMC and all the pumpkin-spiced magic, it really captures that cozy Halloween feeling 🍁🎃👻
“𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝖺 𝖽𝗈𝗓𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀𝗌 𝖨 𝗐𝖺𝗇𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝖾𝖺𝗍 𝗋𝗂𝗀𝗁𝗍 𝗇𝗈𝗐, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗈𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗆𝖾𝗇𝗎.“
I also loved that there was a mystery woven into the story. It added a little something extra while still keeping this a quick and easy paranormal novella to curl up with on a fall night.
Thank you so much to Fleur Devillainy and Happily Booked PR for the opportunity to read this before release 🧡
September 29, 2026
3.5 stars for me.
Good and very spicy paranormal novella with a little mystery.Both Evie and Liam fall fast into lust,and Liam do everything to protect Evie,after all she's his mate.The mystery was a nice add on,and while things progressed very fast,it was a enjoyable read.
Thank you Happily booked PR for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Good and very spicy paranormal novella with a little mystery.Both Evie and Liam fall fast into lust,and Liam do everything to protect Evie,after all she's his mate.The mystery was a nice add on,and while things progressed very fast,it was a enjoyable read.
Thank you Happily booked PR for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again this little town has me in all my feels!
This FMC, I immediately was rooting for her to find her HEA… between running the B&B by herself… to feeling like she’d never find a mate, to always putting herself last… I just wanted her to find her happiness.
And then in rolls are MMC… a tall drink of jaguar shifter… on a mission to not only protect this family heirloom… but to also protect his mate.
These two had scorching hot chemistry… with all the tension.
They also had hilarious banter!
I’m not sure what I did more…crack up laughing… or fanning myself!
This little paranormal town has quickly become one of my favorites!
This FMC, I immediately was rooting for her to find her HEA… between running the B&B by herself… to feeling like she’d never find a mate, to always putting herself last… I just wanted her to find her happiness.
And then in rolls are MMC… a tall drink of jaguar shifter… on a mission to not only protect this family heirloom… but to also protect his mate.
These two had scorching hot chemistry… with all the tension.
They also had hilarious banter!
I’m not sure what I did more…crack up laughing… or fanning myself!
This little paranormal town has quickly become one of my favorites!
September 26, 2026
Spooky season is upon us everyone and Fleur Devillainy’s Potions and Paw Prints is the perfect novella to read to celebrate! I literally finished this novella in one hour because I couldn’t put it down! If you’re a fan of fated mates, Magic, and a little mystery, this is perfect for you!
Evie Hawthorne, a witch, runs a bed and breakfast with her triplet aunts (they’re hilarious btw). Her aunts are convinced that a curse will come if Evie doesn’t find her true love. So like any meddling aunts would do, they use tarot cards and crystal balls to try and find him! Liam, a jaguar shifter detective, comes into town trying to solve a mystery. Someone is stealing important items from several inns and he’s determined to figure out the culprit. When he lands at Evie’s bed and breakfast, sparks fly!
Evie and Liam’s relationship was so adorable. I loved the side characters, the resident ghosts, and the plot of this fast paced novella! I had such a fun time reading this and recommend!!
Evie Hawthorne, a witch, runs a bed and breakfast with her triplet aunts (they’re hilarious btw). Her aunts are convinced that a curse will come if Evie doesn’t find her true love. So like any meddling aunts would do, they use tarot cards and crystal balls to try and find him! Liam, a jaguar shifter detective, comes into town trying to solve a mystery. Someone is stealing important items from several inns and he’s determined to figure out the culprit. When he lands at Evie’s bed and breakfast, sparks fly!
Evie and Liam’s relationship was so adorable. I loved the side characters, the resident ghosts, and the plot of this fast paced novella! I had such a fun time reading this and recommend!!
October 2, 2026
I stayed up way too late reading this! It was SO CUTE! The characters were charming, the ghosts in the bed and breakfast were so entertaining, and the mystery plot felt really fresh and fun! Here's one of my favorite things about Fleurs books - her writing is just beautiful. It's just the right pacing, she paints beautiful pictures, and she has such great emotion in her stories. I just can't decide if I like this one better than her Christmas book which is one of my all time favorites...
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was such a cute little fall romance! 🍂🎃
It’s a short novella, so it’s a super quick read, which was both a pro and a con for me. I loved being able to just jump right into the story, but I also found myself wanting a little more character development and a little more story by the end. Because of that, this landed around a 3.5 stars for me.
Evie Hawthorne owns a bed-and-breakfast in a magical little town full of witches and creatures, and Halloween is obviously her busiest time of year. When she’s completely booked but has an unexpected guest who needs a room, she figures out a way to accommodate him.
Enter Liam — a rugged jaguar shifter and detective who needs to be in town investigating a thief. His solution? Claim Evie is his girlfriend as a cover for why he’s there. So now they’re fake dating through Halloween while he tries to catch the culprit. 👀
And honestly, they’re just a sweet couple. They make the most of their one available room, the fake-dating situation, and all the small-town meddling that comes along with pretending to be a couple. 😂 I really enjoyed that aspect of the story, and the magical fall setting made it an easy, cozy read.
My biggest issue was just that I wanted more. More of Evie and Liam individually, more of their relationship developing, and more time to really get invested in them. But since this is part of The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow, an interconnected series of novellas with different authors and couples, I actually think reading some of the other books could help fill in some of that world and character development that I felt was missing here.
The novella format definitely makes it easy to jump in and enjoy the story without a huge commitment, but it also means things move pretty quickly. It’s very much a cute, magical, fake-dating-for-Halloween kind of read rather than a deeply developed romance — and sometimes that’s exactly what you want. 🎃
Tropes:
🍂 Grumpy x Sunshine
🍂 Small Town
🍂 Meet Cute
🍂 Age Gap
🍂 Fake Dating
🍂 Opposites Attract
🍂 Slow Burn → Spicy
Thanks for the opportunity for an Advanced Reader Copy from Happily Booked!
It’s a short novella, so it’s a super quick read, which was both a pro and a con for me. I loved being able to just jump right into the story, but I also found myself wanting a little more character development and a little more story by the end. Because of that, this landed around a 3.5 stars for me.
Evie Hawthorne owns a bed-and-breakfast in a magical little town full of witches and creatures, and Halloween is obviously her busiest time of year. When she’s completely booked but has an unexpected guest who needs a room, she figures out a way to accommodate him.
Enter Liam — a rugged jaguar shifter and detective who needs to be in town investigating a thief. His solution? Claim Evie is his girlfriend as a cover for why he’s there. So now they’re fake dating through Halloween while he tries to catch the culprit. 👀
And honestly, they’re just a sweet couple. They make the most of their one available room, the fake-dating situation, and all the small-town meddling that comes along with pretending to be a couple. 😂 I really enjoyed that aspect of the story, and the magical fall setting made it an easy, cozy read.
My biggest issue was just that I wanted more. More of Evie and Liam individually, more of their relationship developing, and more time to really get invested in them. But since this is part of The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow, an interconnected series of novellas with different authors and couples, I actually think reading some of the other books could help fill in some of that world and character development that I felt was missing here.
The novella format definitely makes it easy to jump in and enjoy the story without a huge commitment, but it also means things move pretty quickly. It’s very much a cute, magical, fake-dating-for-Halloween kind of read rather than a deeply developed romance — and sometimes that’s exactly what you want. 🎃
Tropes:
🍂 Grumpy x Sunshine
🍂 Small Town
🍂 Meet Cute
🍂 Age Gap
🍂 Fake Dating
🍂 Opposites Attract
🍂 Slow Burn → Spicy
Thanks for the opportunity for an Advanced Reader Copy from Happily Booked!
October 1, 2026
A solid 4.25!
A huge thank you to Fleur Devillany and Happily Booked PR for the ARC of Potions And Pawprints!!! I loveeeee novellas and have been enjoying this whole series immensely!!! They are wonderful for fall and fun, quick reads!!! I especially love them when it involves fake dating 😃!!!!!! And this book has swoon-worthy fake dating so I really enjoyed myself!!!!
Evie is a kitchen witch and runs a haunted bed-and-breakfast. She’s also overworking herself, but doesn’t want to admit this. She’s really determined to do all the things while avoiding any possible family curse! Liam wasn’t exactly a part of her plans, but he sure is perfect for her.
Liam, a jaguar shifter, is trying to find a thief who is after family heirlooms and thinks that Evie’s family is the next target— thus he ends up a guest at the bed-and-breakfast! He doesn’t expect to stumble upon his fated mate, but he just can’t ignore the pull he feels towards Evie.
Honestly, their meet-cute was the perfect set up for some fake dating. Plus, they have natural chemistry that was extra tasty…annnd because they are fated mates…chef’s kiss 😌👍🏻. I loved this for them because they tried real hard to stick to the fake dating but are just so perfect for each other!! I could have read another 100 pages about them if I’m being honest. I just loved both of these characters and the adventure they go on in this story!
Potions and Paw Prints releases on October 1st and I’ll definitely be adding a physical copy to my collection 😌.
A huge thank you to Fleur Devillany and Happily Booked PR for the ARC of Potions And Pawprints!!! I loveeeee novellas and have been enjoying this whole series immensely!!! They are wonderful for fall and fun, quick reads!!! I especially love them when it involves fake dating 😃!!!!!! And this book has swoon-worthy fake dating so I really enjoyed myself!!!!
Evie is a kitchen witch and runs a haunted bed-and-breakfast. She’s also overworking herself, but doesn’t want to admit this. She’s really determined to do all the things while avoiding any possible family curse! Liam wasn’t exactly a part of her plans, but he sure is perfect for her.
Liam, a jaguar shifter, is trying to find a thief who is after family heirlooms and thinks that Evie’s family is the next target— thus he ends up a guest at the bed-and-breakfast! He doesn’t expect to stumble upon his fated mate, but he just can’t ignore the pull he feels towards Evie.
Honestly, their meet-cute was the perfect set up for some fake dating. Plus, they have natural chemistry that was extra tasty…annnd because they are fated mates…chef’s kiss 😌👍🏻. I loved this for them because they tried real hard to stick to the fake dating but are just so perfect for each other!! I could have read another 100 pages about them if I’m being honest. I just loved both of these characters and the adventure they go on in this story!
Potions and Paw Prints releases on October 1st and I’ll definitely be adding a physical copy to my collection 😌.
October 1, 2026
**Part of the Pumpkin hollow series**
This book gives me the vibes of an adult Halloween town completely with witches, were-panthers/other shifters, ghosts (human and animals) and a little of all the creatures in between
The plot is very fast paced and I read this book all at once. The story grips you and reels you right in.
Liam is a detective and were-panther that comes to Pumpkin Hollow due a series of magical objects being stolen and he has a hunch that the next one is the wand at the Brews and Broomsticks Bed-and-Breakfast owed by Evie.
From one phone call Liam knows that Evie is meant to be with him but he is still married to his job.
Evie is a delightful and sweet witch that is just trying to keep it all together to run the bed and breakfast and manage all inhabits, alive and dead and get through the annual Pumpkin festival that keeps the bed and breakfast afloat. She doesn’t have time for a man despite what her meddling aunts say
Liam’s acts of service and helping Evie made my romance heart sore. He plans/ convinces her to go on perfect fall dates (pumpkin patch and hayride)
I loved the internal dialogue between Liam’s were-panther and him.
I enjoyed the dinner interaction with characters we see in another book from the Pumpkin Hollow series.
There is an unexpected twist with the mystery of who is trying to steal wand.
All in all this was a delightful fall/spooky season read with a lot romance, witty banter, a dash of mystery and characters you will fall in love with and want more of
5⭐️
This book gives me the vibes of an adult Halloween town completely with witches, were-panthers/other shifters, ghosts (human and animals) and a little of all the creatures in between
The plot is very fast paced and I read this book all at once. The story grips you and reels you right in.
Liam is a detective and were-panther that comes to Pumpkin Hollow due a series of magical objects being stolen and he has a hunch that the next one is the wand at the Brews and Broomsticks Bed-and-Breakfast owed by Evie.
From one phone call Liam knows that Evie is meant to be with him but he is still married to his job.
Evie is a delightful and sweet witch that is just trying to keep it all together to run the bed and breakfast and manage all inhabits, alive and dead and get through the annual Pumpkin festival that keeps the bed and breakfast afloat. She doesn’t have time for a man despite what her meddling aunts say
Liam’s acts of service and helping Evie made my romance heart sore. He plans/ convinces her to go on perfect fall dates (pumpkin patch and hayride)
I loved the internal dialogue between Liam’s were-panther and him.
I enjoyed the dinner interaction with characters we see in another book from the Pumpkin Hollow series.
There is an unexpected twist with the mystery of who is trying to steal wand.
All in all this was a delightful fall/spooky season read with a lot romance, witty banter, a dash of mystery and characters you will fall in love with and want more of
5⭐️
October 1, 2026
Same author of Spellbound Scones and Sky of Thorns comes this warm, funny autumn treat, brimming with magic, mischief, and all the pumpkin spice you could wish for.
Halloween is always chaos for Evie Hawthorne. Her family’s haunted B&B is packed full of guests, her aunts are up to their usual meddling matchmaking, and the resident ghosts are being extra troublesome. The very last thing she has time for is romance.
Then a rugged, quiet jaguar shifter named Liam turns up at the door — and somehow everyone assumes he’s her new boyfriend. Evie jumps at the chance to play along and quiet all the chatter; all they have to do is keep up the act until Halloween is over. But nothing in this little magical town ever goes quite to plan.
Before long they’re traipsing through enchanted pumpkin patches, joining midnight ghost hunts, and sharing far too many “just for show” kisses that feel anything but fake. As the big night creeps closer, both have to face the truth: is this just a convenient lie… or the start of something truly spellbinding?
Potions and Paw Prints is a standalone novella in The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow — a lovely shared series where different authors each tell the story of one witch in the same charming corner of the world. It hits all your favourite beats: grumpy meets sunshine, fake dating, an age gap, opposites attracting, and a slow-burn romance that builds to plenty of heat.
Halloween is always chaos for Evie Hawthorne. Her family’s haunted B&B is packed full of guests, her aunts are up to their usual meddling matchmaking, and the resident ghosts are being extra troublesome. The very last thing she has time for is romance.
Then a rugged, quiet jaguar shifter named Liam turns up at the door — and somehow everyone assumes he’s her new boyfriend. Evie jumps at the chance to play along and quiet all the chatter; all they have to do is keep up the act until Halloween is over. But nothing in this little magical town ever goes quite to plan.
Before long they’re traipsing through enchanted pumpkin patches, joining midnight ghost hunts, and sharing far too many “just for show” kisses that feel anything but fake. As the big night creeps closer, both have to face the truth: is this just a convenient lie… or the start of something truly spellbinding?
Potions and Paw Prints is a standalone novella in The Witches of Pumpkin Hollow — a lovely shared series where different authors each tell the story of one witch in the same charming corner of the world. It hits all your favourite beats: grumpy meets sunshine, fake dating, an age gap, opposites attracting, and a slow-burn romance that builds to plenty of heat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an eARC!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Continuing my reading of the Pumpkin Hollow collection, I took a trip to the Brews and Broomsticks bed and breakfast to help solve a mystery. Evie runs the inn, just like those in her family before her, and Liam is an investigator looking into a string of thefts. He has reason to believe the next one will be at her inn, so he’s there to try and stop the perpetrator in their tracks.
In switching back and forth between Evie and Liam’s POV, it’s so fun to watch them both feel the pull between them but try to resist acting on it. Evie is putting too much stress on herself to keep the bed and breakfast running with little to no help, and Liam is more than happy to be distracted from his investigation to help her with the load. He encourages her to take time for herself, helping where he can, which in turn helps her realize that accepting aid is okay. They’re two cute peas in a pod.
I love the ghosts in the bed and breakfast. I could read a whole series just following them. They added humor at the perfect time, and I want to know all of their backstories. I also love the mystery element, wondering who was responsible for the thefts and why they were targeting these specific items. It made for an ideal fall read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Continuing my reading of the Pumpkin Hollow collection, I took a trip to the Brews and Broomsticks bed and breakfast to help solve a mystery. Evie runs the inn, just like those in her family before her, and Liam is an investigator looking into a string of thefts. He has reason to believe the next one will be at her inn, so he’s there to try and stop the perpetrator in their tracks.
In switching back and forth between Evie and Liam’s POV, it’s so fun to watch them both feel the pull between them but try to resist acting on it. Evie is putting too much stress on herself to keep the bed and breakfast running with little to no help, and Liam is more than happy to be distracted from his investigation to help her with the load. He encourages her to take time for herself, helping where he can, which in turn helps her realize that accepting aid is okay. They’re two cute peas in a pod.
I love the ghosts in the bed and breakfast. I could read a whole series just following them. They added humor at the perfect time, and I want to know all of their backstories. I also love the mystery element, wondering who was responsible for the thefts and why they were targeting these specific items. It made for an ideal fall read.
October 1, 2026
If you love Halloween, small-town romance, and a little supernatural mischief, Potions and Paw Prints has all the ingredients for a fun fall read!
Evie Hawthorne has enough going on trying to keep her family's haunted bed-and-breakfast running during the busiest time of the year. Between her matchmaking aunts and mischievous ghosts, the poor girl can't catch a break! Then Liam, a rugged jaguar shifter, shows up and somehow ends up playing the role of her fake boyfriend. I absolutely love the idea of a fake relationship that starts getting a little too real! Evie and Liam have that grumpy-meets-sunshine dynamic that makes their story even more entertaining. And honestly, who wouldn't love a romance filled with pretend kisses, ghost hunts, and enchanted pumpkin patches? The setting of Moon Hollow is another thing that makes this story appealing. A magical little town during Halloween, complete with a haunted bed-and-breakfast? Yes, please! I also love that this is a standalone novella, so you can enjoy Evie and Liam's story without committing to an entire series.
If you're looking for a quick paranormal romance with Halloween vibes, a little spice, and some magical chaos, definitely add this one to your fall reading list!
Evie Hawthorne has enough going on trying to keep her family's haunted bed-and-breakfast running during the busiest time of the year. Between her matchmaking aunts and mischievous ghosts, the poor girl can't catch a break! Then Liam, a rugged jaguar shifter, shows up and somehow ends up playing the role of her fake boyfriend. I absolutely love the idea of a fake relationship that starts getting a little too real! Evie and Liam have that grumpy-meets-sunshine dynamic that makes their story even more entertaining. And honestly, who wouldn't love a romance filled with pretend kisses, ghost hunts, and enchanted pumpkin patches? The setting of Moon Hollow is another thing that makes this story appealing. A magical little town during Halloween, complete with a haunted bed-and-breakfast? Yes, please! I also love that this is a standalone novella, so you can enjoy Evie and Liam's story without committing to an entire series.
If you're looking for a quick paranormal romance with Halloween vibes, a little spice, and some magical chaos, definitely add this one to your fall reading list!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a lovely little novella for Halloween.
The relationship between Liam and Evie was intense, burning hot almost instantly. The witch struggling to keep her bed and breakfast running gives up her own bedroom to house the jaguar shifter who needs a place in town to stay urgently. From the very first interaction over the phone, they are drawn to one another and meeting in person only intensifies that desire.
The only thing wrong with this book was that it was too short. I wanted more of the relationship between Liam and Evie, I wanted more jaguar shifting because they are beautiful creatures. I wanted more of Henry and Molly and their antics. I also wanted more of the mystery, more about why the artifacts were being stolen, what was their purpose, why did the thief want them?
I loved Liam, he was strong and capable, a little grumpy but determined. However, I love the fact that Evie brought out both his protective and gentle sides. He enjoys helping her with day to day things, but will instantly shift to protect her from harm if necessary.
Evie is a very strong, independent woman, she is determined to save the B&B and she will also not hesitate to defend her home and belongings when threatened, She won’t let Liam save her without helping to save herself.
The relationship between Liam and Evie was intense, burning hot almost instantly. The witch struggling to keep her bed and breakfast running gives up her own bedroom to house the jaguar shifter who needs a place in town to stay urgently. From the very first interaction over the phone, they are drawn to one another and meeting in person only intensifies that desire.
The only thing wrong with this book was that it was too short. I wanted more of the relationship between Liam and Evie, I wanted more jaguar shifting because they are beautiful creatures. I wanted more of Henry and Molly and their antics. I also wanted more of the mystery, more about why the artifacts were being stolen, what was their purpose, why did the thief want them?
I loved Liam, he was strong and capable, a little grumpy but determined. However, I love the fact that Evie brought out both his protective and gentle sides. He enjoys helping her with day to day things, but will instantly shift to protect her from harm if necessary.
Evie is a very strong, independent woman, she is determined to save the B&B and she will also not hesitate to defend her home and belongings when threatened, She won’t let Liam save her without helping to save herself.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Potions and Paw Prints by Fleur DeVillainy is a charming, cozy romance with all the perfect ingredients for a fun fall read! I loved the small-town setting, the bed and breakfast atmosphere, and the fake-dating trope that brought plenty of romantic tension and sweet moments. The chemistry between the characters was enjoyable, and I especially liked watching their pretend relationship slowly turn into something more. The fall vibes, adorable animals, and magical touches added an extra layer of warmth and made this story feel like the perfect book to curl up with on a cool autumn evening. Fleur DeVillainy created a delightful escape filled with romance, cozy moments, and just enough magic. Overall, Potions and Paw Prints was an enjoyable small-town romance, with the fake dating trope, adorable pets, and autumnal vibes.
I received an ARC copy from Happily Booked PR. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
I received an ARC copy from Happily Booked PR. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
September 27, 2026
Fleur! I absolutely LOVE your work! 🎃🖤
This little novella was absolutely adorable! I loved Pumpkin Hollow and all the cozy holiday romance vibes. It was cute, sweet, spicy, and such a fun quick read!
Now… LIAM?! 🥵
Sexy, demanding, and boyyyy is that man YUMMY. I loved his take-charge personality and the way he was with Evie.
And Evie was absolutely adorable! I loved how she melted around Liam and trusted him enough to let him take charge. Their chemistry was 🔥, but they were also just so dang cute together!
I loved everything about this little novella. It was the perfect quick holiday romance, and now I’m even more excited to dive into the rest of the series!
Pumpkin Hollow + adorable romance + one very yummy Liam = YES PLEASE. 🎃🔥🖤
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read this, in exchange for my honest opinion.
This little novella was absolutely adorable! I loved Pumpkin Hollow and all the cozy holiday romance vibes. It was cute, sweet, spicy, and such a fun quick read!
Now… LIAM?! 🥵
Sexy, demanding, and boyyyy is that man YUMMY. I loved his take-charge personality and the way he was with Evie.
And Evie was absolutely adorable! I loved how she melted around Liam and trusted him enough to let him take charge. Their chemistry was 🔥, but they were also just so dang cute together!
I loved everything about this little novella. It was the perfect quick holiday romance, and now I’m even more excited to dive into the rest of the series!
Pumpkin Hollow + adorable romance + one very yummy Liam = YES PLEASE. 🎃🔥🖤
Thank you for allowing me to ARC read this, in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book felt like autumn, and I loved how festive it was. The decorations, the food, the activities—it was great. Best of all, it took place at a haunted B&B. Don't worry, the ghosts are friendly. So is the very large barn owl. There are a bunch of meddling aunts, a mystery, a family curse (that is most definitely real), and a dash of romance. I love a fake-dating trope; the feelings always turn real, although in this case the feelings were real from the start, only Liam and Evie didn't know how to express that to each other. Evie, I understood, she was under a lot of stress trying to keep the B&B afloat, but Liam had no such excuses, especially knowing what he knew. While I enjoyed the romance, one part could use some work. Overall, I really enjoyed this one. Potions and Paw Prints is perfect for anyone looking for a quick seasonal read.
October 3, 2026
First, a warm thank you to Happily Booked PR for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
If you are looking for a cozy, cute, supernatural and at times hot in-between read this spooky season, then look no further!
This was such a cute novella! I really liked the romance between Liam and Evie; especially because this was written from dual POV. It was nice to see Evie stress less and less, and Liam having internal dialogues with his panther-self.
The small town with all its quirky residents and all the B&B eternal guests were fun sidecharacters in this little story. Definitely sounds like all the other novellas in this series are fun reads as well.
Throughout the story I really wanted to know more about the mystery of the objects that were being stolen, and I didn't quite feel like I got real answers to that in the end.
If you are looking for a cozy, cute, supernatural and at times hot in-between read this spooky season, then look no further!
This was such a cute novella! I really liked the romance between Liam and Evie; especially because this was written from dual POV. It was nice to see Evie stress less and less, and Liam having internal dialogues with his panther-self.
The small town with all its quirky residents and all the B&B eternal guests were fun sidecharacters in this little story. Definitely sounds like all the other novellas in this series are fun reads as well.
Throughout the story I really wanted to know more about the mystery of the objects that were being stolen, and I didn't quite feel like I got real answers to that in the end.
October 1, 2026
Potions and Pawprints is part of the Pumpkin Hollow Series.
This was a feel good and fun supernatural romance. Evie is overworked and super stressed, but she still continues to continue on and push through every day. Liam comes to town to investigate some thefts of supernatural artifacts and he thinks the next spot will be Evie's B&B. What neither expected was to find their perfect match. He knows instantly, she is it for him. However, she takes a bit more time to come to this realization. I thought it was a fun and hilarious read. We get three meddlesome aunts and some interesting poltergeists at the inn.
This was a feel good and fun supernatural romance. Evie is overworked and super stressed, but she still continues to continue on and push through every day. Liam comes to town to investigate some thefts of supernatural artifacts and he thinks the next spot will be Evie's B&B. What neither expected was to find their perfect match. He knows instantly, she is it for him. However, she takes a bit more time to come to this realization. I thought it was a fun and hilarious read. We get three meddlesome aunts and some interesting poltergeists at the inn.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Spice: 3/5
This was a super quick and cute novella that will get you into an Autumn mood really quickly. The town and its inhabitants are fun. The world was quickly built. I loved Evie and how powerful she was throughout the book, carrying everything about running her family's business on her back. Her chemistry with Liam was instant and strong. I loved that Liam's jaguar was not playing about claiming her, even if Liam was a little slow to get there. The mystery was suspenseful enough to keep my attention without being too drawn out.
This was a super quick and cute novella that will get you into an Autumn mood really quickly. The town and its inhabitants are fun. The world was quickly built. I loved Evie and how powerful she was throughout the book, carrying everything about running her family's business on her back. Her chemistry with Liam was instant and strong. I loved that Liam's jaguar was not playing about claiming her, even if Liam was a little slow to get there. The mystery was suspenseful enough to keep my attention without being too drawn out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a cute fall treat of a book!
This follows Fleur fantastic short stories style. What a cute setting and perfect fall book.
A B&B owner and jaguar shifter detective come together when someone is trying to steal a magical wand from the B&B. There is a cute owl familiar, some resident ghosts and 3 triplet aunts who always keep Evie on her toes.
Liam (jaguar shifter) comes off grumpy but melts for Evie and becomes helpful to the B&B while trying to solve the crime before it happens.
A quick and worth it add to your fall reads!
This follows Fleur fantastic short stories style. What a cute setting and perfect fall book.
A B&B owner and jaguar shifter detective come together when someone is trying to steal a magical wand from the B&B. There is a cute owl familiar, some resident ghosts and 3 triplet aunts who always keep Evie on her toes.
Liam (jaguar shifter) comes off grumpy but melts for Evie and becomes helpful to the B&B while trying to solve the crime before it happens.
A quick and worth it add to your fall reads!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Just finished my copy of the latest novella in Pumpkin Hollow series. And loved this book!
Shes running herself into the ground keeping her families B&B going. He's a detective arriving at her B&B while working on a case.
With meddling aunts and ghosts and sparks flying will these two solve the case and get what they want?
Like your MMCs rocking the professor vibes have a secret dom vibe? Then hes for you!
Book quote:
“You’ll find jaguars differ from cats in many ways. We don’t purr, but we can be very territorial.”
Just finished my copy of the latest novella in Pumpkin Hollow series. And loved this book!
Shes running herself into the ground keeping her families B&B going. He's a detective arriving at her B&B while working on a case.
With meddling aunts and ghosts and sparks flying will these two solve the case and get what they want?
Like your MMCs rocking the professor vibes have a secret dom vibe? Then hes for you!
Book quote:
“You’ll find jaguars differ from cats in many ways. We don’t purr, but we can be very territorial.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Evie and Liam start fake dating while Liam tries to catch whoever is stealing powerful witch items. Liam instantly falls for Evie and knows she is meant to be his. Evie has always put others first and doesn't know how to act on these sudden feelings for Liam. This is a cute Halloween book and was a perfect little read to get me in the autumn mood. This is a short book of only 112 pages, but it has so much packed in. The ghosts made me laugh, especially Molly with her witty attitude and the aunties who were up to no good at the beginning.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another fun fall, spooky read with an added mystery to solve. This cozy novella has a haunted B&B, hilarious ghosts, witchy B&B owner and a jaguar shifter detective. Liam comes to town to solve the mystery of the stolen magical items and has instant connection to Evie. The chemistry between them is immediate and very hot.
If you want a quick read that has fake dating, fated mates and a mystery to solve all during a fall festival then you need to add to your TBR.
Thanks to Happily Booked and the author for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
If you want a quick read that has fake dating, fated mates and a mystery to solve all during a fall festival then you need to add to your TBR.
Thanks to Happily Booked and the author for sending me the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy
I enjoyed the book. I thought it was the perfect cozy Halloween read. Evie was dealing with the rush of Halloween tourists, her aunts who drive her insane, the ghosts at the bed-and-breakfast who were being mischievous. Liam showing up was a highlight for me. While he was only there for a couple weeks, listening to his inner jaguar was hilarious. It was a good book, perfect for the season, and I enjoyed the HEA that we got.
October 6, 2026
Looking for a book to get you into the holiday spirit? This seasonal release features ghosts, witches, and shifters, making it a great palate cleanser at less than 150 pages.
Evie, a bed and breakfast owner, finds her place fully booked during the season. When Liam calls in need of a room, she gives up her own. A series of overwhelming events leads them to fake date, but Liam has a secret: they are fated mates.
Evie, a bed and breakfast owner, finds her place fully booked during the season. When Liam calls in need of a room, she gives up her own. A series of overwhelming events leads them to fake date, but Liam has a secret: they are fated mates.
September 26, 2026
This book is a tasty treat!
I gobbled this book up so fast. It is the perfect fall vibes paranormal romance novella. You get a fake dating and fated mates. I love those tropes! Fleur is the queen of shifter romances. If you haven’t read her books you need to try them!
I gobbled this book up so fast. It is the perfect fall vibes paranormal romance novella. You get a fake dating and fated mates. I love those tropes! Fleur is the queen of shifter romances. If you haven’t read her books you need to try them!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Potions and Paw Prints is a cozy yet steamy novella that’s the purrrfect fall read!
Witches, shifters, and ghosts—oh my! If you’re looking for all the fall feels, low stakes, and a cute romance with just the right amount of heat, look no further. This one is pure cozy-season fun!
Witches, shifters, and ghosts—oh my! If you’re looking for all the fall feels, low stakes, and a cute romance with just the right amount of heat, look no further. This one is pure cozy-season fun!
Review of advance copy
A fun and cozy fall read. I loved the chemistry and banter between Evie and Liam. He's mistaken as her boyfriend at her family's haunted bed and breakfast, all they need to do is keep it up until after Halloween. Things quickly start feeling very real.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Potions and Paw Prints is a sweet and cozy fall read! It is short, steamy, and satisfying. Although it is a quick read, it still manages to pack in real charm and chemistry.
Evie is juggling her family's B&B, seasonal tourists, meddling aunts, and mischievous ghosts. She is overwhelmed and overworked. Liam is a detective in town to solve a mystery, but he is also a jaguar shifter who knows immediately what Evie is to him, and his jaguar definitely has opinions on the matter!
The chemistry between them is instant; I couldn't help but love them together. There is a little mystery woven through the story that keeps things interesting beyond the romance without dragging down the pace or overshadowing the light, cozy, witchy vibes of the story. A good read if you're looking for a quick and pumpkin spiced story to curl up with and embrace the autumn atmosphere.
- I read an advance copy and I am leaving an honest review.
Evie is juggling her family's B&B, seasonal tourists, meddling aunts, and mischievous ghosts. She is overwhelmed and overworked. Liam is a detective in town to solve a mystery, but he is also a jaguar shifter who knows immediately what Evie is to him, and his jaguar definitely has opinions on the matter!
The chemistry between them is instant; I couldn't help but love them together. There is a little mystery woven through the story that keeps things interesting beyond the romance without dragging down the pace or overshadowing the light, cozy, witchy vibes of the story. A good read if you're looking for a quick and pumpkin spiced story to curl up with and embrace the autumn atmosphere.
- I read an advance copy and I am leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novella has fake dating, forced proximity, and has jaguar shifters X witch. It is set in a small town and at Halloween time. It is a cozy short story. The spice is a level 3.5🌶️. I enjoy this very much. If you like short novellas that have a small town romance this is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this! ❤️
The story is so cute! I can't help my smile when he uses a nickname for her. It's just so adorable. I googled it and I instantly melt 🫠 Not to mention how he noticed the little things about his little witch 🥰
The story is so cute! I can't help my smile when he uses a nickname for her. It's just so adorable. I googled it and I instantly melt 🫠 Not to mention how he noticed the little things about his little witch 🥰
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