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Mystic Misfits #1
Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours
Her currency is sugar and spice.
He asks for a scandalous price.
Aura Cassia is a Kitchen Witch with no lineage, a modest bakery, and an orphanage full of mixed-blood children about to be homeless. When a ruthless property magnate sets his sights on demolishing her sanctuary, Cassia storms the city's most exclusive gentlemen's club to demand a miracle.
Enter Varil Arkenoth: the 'Idle Prince' of the Demon District. Society whispers about his disregard for duties, but Ark guards a secret life far more dangerous—and purposeful—than his reputation suggests. He offers her a scandalous pact: play his fiancée for the Yulefrost season to ward off his mother's matchmaking attempts, and he will use his influence to save her sanctuary.
As their romp across glittering galas turn into late-night domestic comforts, the line between performance and reality blurs. In a world that values bloodlines over belonging, a stubborn baker and a demon with too many secrets must decide if their fake bond is worth a real war.
For fans of cozy fantasy, slow-burn romance, and found family. Readers of A Witch's Guide to Fake Dating a Demon, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, and Legends & Lattes will feel right at home.
He asks for a scandalous price.
Aura Cassia is a Kitchen Witch with no lineage, a modest bakery, and an orphanage full of mixed-blood children about to be homeless. When a ruthless property magnate sets his sights on demolishing her sanctuary, Cassia storms the city's most exclusive gentlemen's club to demand a miracle.
Enter Varil Arkenoth: the 'Idle Prince' of the Demon District. Society whispers about his disregard for duties, but Ark guards a secret life far more dangerous—and purposeful—than his reputation suggests. He offers her a scandalous pact: play his fiancée for the Yulefrost season to ward off his mother's matchmaking attempts, and he will use his influence to save her sanctuary.
As their romp across glittering galas turn into late-night domestic comforts, the line between performance and reality blurs. In a world that values bloodlines over belonging, a stubborn baker and a demon with too many secrets must decide if their fake bond is worth a real war.
For fans of cozy fantasy, slow-burn romance, and found family. Readers of A Witch's Guide to Fake Dating a Demon, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, and Legends & Lattes will feel right at home.
524 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2026
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August 11, 2026Hello everyone!
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you who have been reading Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours and leaving such thoughtful reviews and messages. It truly means a lot!
A few of you have asked about the series plans, so I thought I’d share a quick overview here:
Mystic Misfits is currently planned as a six-book series. The first two books will focus on Cassia and Ark, while Book 3 onward will center on the other major supporting characters. Rhodes (who is quickly proving to be readers’ favourite), Caius, Opalina, and Lilibeth will get their books, and I’m not going to reveal who’s pairing up with who just yet 😉😉😉
I also plan to write a prequel novel to tell Kassenor & Delphyne’s love story as it is grand and I am quite obsessed! If my husband gets his way, I may also write a book where the Mystic Misfits are transported into the demon realm (like in an Isekai novel) which might be really fun!
The lore around the different species will continue to expand as the series progresses, with its world and mythology growing with each installment.
I share snippets, character art, and publishing updates on Instagram (my main platform). If you’d like to follow along, you can find me at @enolamdouglas_author.
Thank you again for reading, reviewing, and supporting this story!
I just wanted to take a moment to thank all of you who have been reading Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours and leaving such thoughtful reviews and messages. It truly means a lot!
A few of you have asked about the series plans, so I thought I’d share a quick overview here:
Mystic Misfits is currently planned as a six-book series. The first two books will focus on Cassia and Ark, while Book 3 onward will center on the other major supporting characters. Rhodes (who is quickly proving to be readers’ favourite), Caius, Opalina, and Lilibeth will get their books, and I’m not going to reveal who’s pairing up with who just yet 😉😉😉
I also plan to write a prequel novel to tell Kassenor & Delphyne’s love story as it is grand and I am quite obsessed! If my husband gets his way, I may also write a book where the Mystic Misfits are transported into the demon realm (like in an Isekai novel) which might be really fun!
The lore around the different species will continue to expand as the series progresses, with its world and mythology growing with each installment.
I share snippets, character art, and publishing updates on Instagram (my main platform). If you’d like to follow along, you can find me at @enolamdouglas_author.
Thank you again for reading, reviewing, and supporting this story!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley & the author for a chance to review this arc! The cover is beautiful 🥹
Honestly, this was a super cute & sweet read. It follows Cassia, a kitchen witch who takes care of an orphanage & Ark, a demon who’s tired of people trying to force him into things he doesn’t want.
A powerful demon wants to shut down Cassia’s orphanage, so she confronts him & there she meets Ark. The latter just got out of an irritating conversation with the one shutting down the orphanage - so he sees an opportunity to piss him off.
The characters were really lovable and their romance progressed in a natural way. They had deep & meaningful conversations and genuinely wanted the best for one another. There’s a small communication issue around the 80% mark, but even if I hate this trope, I think it was the only time that it felt like it was handled correctly. Especially since they knew each other by then, so it wasn’t pushed too far. The side characters weren’t the most present, but I liked that the author included a child that sees more than he seems.
Family issues were discussed as it was something the mmc struggled with. There’s one conversation where the fmc tried to tell the mmc to basically ‘make an effort’ with his problematic father, and it didn’t sit right with me but his mother had that conversation with her a bit later on in the novel so I appreciated that it didn’t just sit there.
« A family should stay together.
- That depends entirely on the family. » well said.
The pacing was on the slow side and I do believe this could’ve been cut down but I still enjoyed this read nonetheless.
« You see, I’ve found that the happiest people are the ones who stopped asking where they came from and started deciding where they’re going. (…) - it’s not where the seed fell that matters. It’s what you do with the soil you’re given. »
Honestly, this was a super cute & sweet read. It follows Cassia, a kitchen witch who takes care of an orphanage & Ark, a demon who’s tired of people trying to force him into things he doesn’t want.
A powerful demon wants to shut down Cassia’s orphanage, so she confronts him & there she meets Ark. The latter just got out of an irritating conversation with the one shutting down the orphanage - so he sees an opportunity to piss him off.
The characters were really lovable and their romance progressed in a natural way. They had deep & meaningful conversations and genuinely wanted the best for one another. There’s a small communication issue around the 80% mark, but even if I hate this trope, I think it was the only time that it felt like it was handled correctly. Especially since they knew each other by then, so it wasn’t pushed too far. The side characters weren’t the most present, but I liked that the author included a child that sees more than he seems.
Family issues were discussed as it was something the mmc struggled with. There’s one conversation where the fmc tried to tell the mmc to basically ‘make an effort’ with his problematic father, and it didn’t sit right with me but his mother had that conversation with her a bit later on in the novel so I appreciated that it didn’t just sit there.
« A family should stay together.
- That depends entirely on the family. » well said.
The pacing was on the slow side and I do believe this could’ve been cut down but I still enjoyed this read nonetheless.
« You see, I’ve found that the happiest people are the ones who stopped asking where they came from and started deciding where they’re going. (…) - it’s not where the seed fell that matters. It’s what you do with the soil you’re given. »
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The cover of Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours caught my eyes and I started to read it right away.
I was in the mood of a fantasy read and Enola M. Douglas delivered such a good, heartwarming, emotional and spicy story, I couldn't put it down.
Aura Cassia is a kitchen witch, who owns a bakery and manages an orphanage. Varil Arkenoth comes from the most illustrious demon family, but he doesn't want to follow in his father's footsteps. They meet by chance and they instantly understand they need each other to get what they want; they start a fake relationship in order to save Cassia orphanage and for Ark to have more freedom.
Cassia and Ark stole my heart. They are great characters: gentle, unselfish, lovable. They grow fonder while slowly know each and discover the different worlds they live in.
If you are a fantasy reader I recommend to read this book. I can't wait to get the next one in the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
October 7, 2026
Consider me bewitched indeed.
As promised, Smoke, Mirrors & Misdemeanours was a charming, cosy read that feels perfect for autumn. The book is the very definition of cosy: sweet, lovable characters, relatively low stakes, a soft magic system that relies largely on vibes and atmosphere (which it absolutely delivers on), and adorable magic missives (by far my favourite element!). Though I had a lovely time with it, I did come away feeling that the book fell short of my expectations.
P.S. If cinnamon-scented flowers become a pattern, we may need to discuss appropriate compensation for the sudden hunger you cause. Preferably edible.
Going into the book, one of the first things that caught my attention was the worldbuilding. From the get-go, it was clear that a lot of thought had gone into crafting Meredith and its inhabitants. I loved learning about how Meredith came to be, as well as the four main "species" that inhabit its lands. Douglas also incorporates little details that make the world feel distinct, such as the convention of placing family names before given names, which highlights the importance of bloodlines and familial influence in Meredith. It's a small touch, but one that adds texture to the world and makes it feel distinctive and unique from other worlds, even if not particularly revolutionary.
"You look," he said at last, his voice low and rough, "like every star in the sky came down just to rest on your shoulders."
I also really liked the two main characters! They're so similar yet so different. Both are gentle and soft-spoken, but firm and stubborn when need be. They share a yearning for belonging and a place they can truly call home, despite coming from completely different backgrounds. Cassia was raised in a home full of love, yet faces discrimination because of her background and her "mixed blood". Meanwhile, Ark has every opportunity available to him if only he asks, but has never truly experienced the warmth of a home. In each other, they find a kindred soul, and I found their connection genuinely wholesome.
"You see someone with nothing; I see someone with everything. If she is Untethered, then I will tether myself to her. We will never be alone again."
The romance was a bit of a mixed bag for me. I typically adore a marriage of convenience (or, in this case, an engagement of convenience!), but the romance here felt a little too insta-lovey for my taste. While the characters had a lovely connection, the transition from friendship to love felt somewhat abrupt. That said, I appreciated how sweet their relationship was, and it was refreshing to see a couple who didn't begin by hating each other's guts for once.
She thanked him? As if he weren't the one who should be on his knees, offering gratitude to whatever fates had led her to his path.
...
I am the one who is thankful. Profoundly.
On the topic of romance, the third-act breakup just didn't work at all for me. I struggled to understand the reasoning behind it, especially when the issue seemed like it could have been resolved through a proper conversation.
"You were made to be worshipped."
Another aspect that didn't quite work for me was the writing. Douglas excels at sensory descriptions (all that food had me hungry at MULTIPLE points throughout the book, lmao), but I found some of the prose repetitive. Certain sentence structures cropped up so frequently that, while I barely noticed them at first, they became increasingly distracting around the halfway mark.
"You are radiant."
All that said, I still had a lovely time with this book, and Douglas absolutely delivered on the cosy front. I'd recommend it to pretty much anyone who loves cosy fantasy. And, as a lover of letters, I found the magic missives so heckin' cute! (I personally think letters are one of the most intimate forms of communication, so their inclusion is always a plus for me in romances, hehe.)
"I find Miss Aura exceedingly likeable."
P.S. While Ark and his parents didn't get off to the best start, I loved seeing them reconnect, and I ended up liking his parents far more than I'd expected. I'd be sooo interested in reading their love story because I feel like they're the PERFECT power couple omg.
I need you. I want you.
Thank you Enola M. Douglas for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
"Go," she told him. "Be the firebrand. Shake their marble halls. But just remember: always come back to me."
"Starling," he said, and kissed her forehead. "There's nowhere else I'd rather be."
September 30, 2026
Thank you so much to Enola for an arc copy of this!!!!
WE LOVE A FAKE ENGAGEMENT WITH HIM FALLING FIRST!!!!
I’m totally calm over this book I swear... okay maybe not but this books was so incredibly cute and I loved it so much!
This books warmed my heart with Cassia and Ark. Cassia is a kitchen witch without a strong lineage who is currently running an orphanage but the property isn’t going to remain hers for long. Enter Ark, a shadow wielding demon who is royalty and hates the spotlight . He proposes a fake engagement in exchange for him helping her save the orphanage.
The banter in this was so much fun (also my heart melted when I realized Ark was keeping and preserving all of the messages Cassia was sending him). Ark was such a green flag mmc and I didn’t want his and Cassia’s story to end.
Also let's talk about the side characters! There was quite a bit who were introduced but every single one of them I loved what they added to the story... especially Rhodes (Ark’s friend) and Anuck (Cassia’s cat??). Book 2 of this series is going to be so much fun!
If you’re looking for a cozy read this fall, this is one that I would immediately recommend!
What you can expect:
🌃 Cozy Urban Fantasy
💕 Fake Engagement
🏡 Found Family
🪄 Witch x Demon
🏘️ Small Town Feel
💗 Allies to Lovers
🖤 Green Flag MMC with Shadow Daddy Energy
😍 He Falls First
💕 Mutual Pining
💌 Letters
✨ Banter as Foreplay
WE LOVE A FAKE ENGAGEMENT WITH HIM FALLING FIRST!!!!
I’m totally calm over this book I swear... okay maybe not but this books was so incredibly cute and I loved it so much!
This books warmed my heart with Cassia and Ark. Cassia is a kitchen witch without a strong lineage who is currently running an orphanage but the property isn’t going to remain hers for long. Enter Ark, a shadow wielding demon who is royalty and hates the spotlight . He proposes a fake engagement in exchange for him helping her save the orphanage.
The banter in this was so much fun (also my heart melted when I realized Ark was keeping and preserving all of the messages Cassia was sending him). Ark was such a green flag mmc and I didn’t want his and Cassia’s story to end.
Also let's talk about the side characters! There was quite a bit who were introduced but every single one of them I loved what they added to the story... especially Rhodes (Ark’s friend) and Anuck (Cassia’s cat??). Book 2 of this series is going to be so much fun!
If you’re looking for a cozy read this fall, this is one that I would immediately recommend!
What you can expect:
🌃 Cozy Urban Fantasy
💕 Fake Engagement
🏡 Found Family
🪄 Witch x Demon
🏘️ Small Town Feel
💗 Allies to Lovers
🖤 Green Flag MMC with Shadow Daddy Energy
😍 He Falls First
💕 Mutual Pining
💌 Letters
✨ Banter as Foreplay
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made my brain desperately crave more sensory input. All the smells, flavours, colours, pastries, and the cozy little bakery had me wishing I could step straight into Yulfrost and stay there for a while.
The Yulfrost setting adds its own kind of magic too, with ice skating, wintery charm, and enough pastries to make me seriously consider relocating. The orphanage setup felt a little familiar, but I really enjoyed what the author did with the building itself.
And then there is our moody, broody nocturne demon, Arkenoth, smelling of smoke, cedar, and warm spices.
Naturally, he ticked all the right boxes. Cassia, meanwhile, is carrying the weight of the orphanage on her shoulders and has a heart far too big for her own good.
Ark and Cassia were such a lovely couple, and honestly, their friends deserve books of their own. I wasn't completely on board with all of Cassia's thoughts and decisions, but thankfully the miscommunication was short-lived and never overshadowed how much I enjoyed the story.
This could have easily worked as a standalone, but then came the epilogue and made it very clear that I'm not done with this world yet. And judging by how much I already want more of these characters, I'm perfectly happy about that!
The Yulfrost setting adds its own kind of magic too, with ice skating, wintery charm, and enough pastries to make me seriously consider relocating. The orphanage setup felt a little familiar, but I really enjoyed what the author did with the building itself.
And then there is our moody, broody nocturne demon, Arkenoth, smelling of smoke, cedar, and warm spices.
Naturally, he ticked all the right boxes. Cassia, meanwhile, is carrying the weight of the orphanage on her shoulders and has a heart far too big for her own good.
Ark and Cassia were such a lovely couple, and honestly, their friends deserve books of their own. I wasn't completely on board with all of Cassia's thoughts and decisions, but thankfully the miscommunication was short-lived and never overshadowed how much I enjoyed the story.
This could have easily worked as a standalone, but then came the epilogue and made it very clear that I'm not done with this world yet. And judging by how much I already want more of these characters, I'm perfectly happy about that!
September 19, 2026
Firstly, a thank you to Enola for having me on her ARC team. I am leaving this review for free and completely of my own thoughts and opinions.
Smoke, Mirrors and Misdemeanours was such a cozy delight. I was gently drawn in with calming magic, quiet grief and the fierce desire of protection. And that quiet draw was further fuelled by loving food descriptions, a sweet romance with flirty banter and the soft settling of finding people who see you and accept you for who you are, not what you should be.
This book felt like a love letter to doing your best, sacrifice and finding space for yourself where there wasn't before.
I just adored Cassia. How caring she was, how willing she was to put others above herself. The way she let things that could have crushed her just roll of her like water of a ducks back. It just made her such a compelling FMC.
Ark was a treat. The way he compressed himself down so as to be 'normal' His slightly dry humour and exasperated fondness for his friends. His desire to forge his own path anyway he could. It all worked brilliantly.
The romance was slightly faster paced in terms of timeline within the actual story only occurring over weeks but it was slower paced in terms of actual occurrence on page, and while thats not usually something I like, this relationship worked so well for me. They learnt each other, they shared with each other. There was an unravelling of each others parts that I found quite touching.
The cast of side characters were interesting and fun. Everyone felt very distinct and I loved thst even some of the children got their moments to shine.
Very excited to see where book two takes the story and to hopefully learn more about some of the side characters.
Smoke, Mirrors and Misdemeanours was such a cozy delight. I was gently drawn in with calming magic, quiet grief and the fierce desire of protection. And that quiet draw was further fuelled by loving food descriptions, a sweet romance with flirty banter and the soft settling of finding people who see you and accept you for who you are, not what you should be.
This book felt like a love letter to doing your best, sacrifice and finding space for yourself where there wasn't before.
I just adored Cassia. How caring she was, how willing she was to put others above herself. The way she let things that could have crushed her just roll of her like water of a ducks back. It just made her such a compelling FMC.
Ark was a treat. The way he compressed himself down so as to be 'normal' His slightly dry humour and exasperated fondness for his friends. His desire to forge his own path anyway he could. It all worked brilliantly.
The romance was slightly faster paced in terms of timeline within the actual story only occurring over weeks but it was slower paced in terms of actual occurrence on page, and while thats not usually something I like, this relationship worked so well for me. They learnt each other, they shared with each other. There was an unravelling of each others parts that I found quite touching.
The cast of side characters were interesting and fun. Everyone felt very distinct and I loved thst even some of the children got their moments to shine.
Very excited to see where book two takes the story and to hopefully learn more about some of the side characters.
October 5, 2026
This book was a perfectly timed warm hug! Exactly what I needed. My face hurts from smiling. Pure joy & comfort. The writing is so beautiful.
What I loved most was the role food plays in the story. The descriptions are wonderfully sensory, making it easy to almost taste and smell the meals as Cassia prepares & serves them. Everything she makes is infused with care, intention, and, quite literally, magic. Her cooking nourishes not only the body but also the heart, offering healing & comfort. This aspect of the story runs parallel with its larger themes of healing and connection. And maybe most importantly, finding a place where you belong and where you can call home.
I absolutely loved the main characters Cassia and Ark. I read so many darker, enemies-to-lovers type stories, that it was actually very refreshing to read a true allies-to-lovers (and a fake engagement!) with an MMC that is all green flags, while still being, well, a shadow demon that will stand up for his woman, LOL! The side characters were also fabulous, and I am super excited to read more about the Mystic Misfits, and honestly, anything and everything Enola writes because she has become one of my favorite authors.
Favorite Quotes:
“Her magic didn’t crackle; it bloomed. It washed over his senses: a deep, resonant hum, thick and sweet like rising dough, charged with the warmth of a hearth.”
“It wasn’t just a scent--it was a memory, an emotion. A home, he realized. She smelled like a happy home.”
“Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
“Let me hold this for you. Just for a moment. Let me be the place where it doesn’t hurt.”
“Good relationships don’t start with romance...They start with understanding.”
What I loved most was the role food plays in the story. The descriptions are wonderfully sensory, making it easy to almost taste and smell the meals as Cassia prepares & serves them. Everything she makes is infused with care, intention, and, quite literally, magic. Her cooking nourishes not only the body but also the heart, offering healing & comfort. This aspect of the story runs parallel with its larger themes of healing and connection. And maybe most importantly, finding a place where you belong and where you can call home.
I absolutely loved the main characters Cassia and Ark. I read so many darker, enemies-to-lovers type stories, that it was actually very refreshing to read a true allies-to-lovers (and a fake engagement!) with an MMC that is all green flags, while still being, well, a shadow demon that will stand up for his woman, LOL! The side characters were also fabulous, and I am super excited to read more about the Mystic Misfits, and honestly, anything and everything Enola writes because she has become one of my favorite authors.
Favorite Quotes:
“Her magic didn’t crackle; it bloomed. It washed over his senses: a deep, resonant hum, thick and sweet like rising dough, charged with the warmth of a hearth.”
“It wasn’t just a scent--it was a memory, an emotion. A home, he realized. She smelled like a happy home.”
“Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
“Let me hold this for you. Just for a moment. Let me be the place where it doesn’t hurt.”
“Good relationships don’t start with romance...They start with understanding.”
August 7, 2026
4.5 Stars!
This book follows Cassia, a kitchen witch, as she is trying to save Starlight orphanage from a sale that would leave them all without a place to go. She happens upon Ark, a demon, in a split second meeting that leaves Ark wondering if there's a way they can bargain and help each other. He would help her save the orphanage, and she would enter a fake engagement with him to throw his overbearing mother's matchmaking plans into disarray. Magical shenanigans follow after that as they problem solve and try to stick to the plan.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I was not sure at first if I would like it, because I'm not super into romance-focused books. This book was so cozy and lovely like the inside of a warm, gooey, cinnamon roll. I enjoyed the author's lush and descriptive writing, for the food, clothing, and surroundings. I was also a big fan of the characters - I loved Cassia and Ark, as well as their best friends - all unique and kind and funny in their own ways. I do wish we got to see more of the children who live at Starlight orphanage though, The magic system and the world building were so intriguing. I thought the set up of the world was like nothing I've ever read before, with four major factions coexisting after a magical incident left some of them stranded on that world. I hope there are future books to dive deeper into this world and how each group's magic and history have evolved. Despite being a cozy romantasy, this book also ended up tackling some deeper themes such as classism and personal identity/purpose.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see if there will be more books in this world from the author. Definitely would recommend and will look forward to any future books!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Enola M. Douglas for this advance readers' copy. All opinions are my own. This book is available on October 1, 2026.
This book follows Cassia, a kitchen witch, as she is trying to save Starlight orphanage from a sale that would leave them all without a place to go. She happens upon Ark, a demon, in a split second meeting that leaves Ark wondering if there's a way they can bargain and help each other. He would help her save the orphanage, and she would enter a fake engagement with him to throw his overbearing mother's matchmaking plans into disarray. Magical shenanigans follow after that as they problem solve and try to stick to the plan.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I was not sure at first if I would like it, because I'm not super into romance-focused books. This book was so cozy and lovely like the inside of a warm, gooey, cinnamon roll. I enjoyed the author's lush and descriptive writing, for the food, clothing, and surroundings. I was also a big fan of the characters - I loved Cassia and Ark, as well as their best friends - all unique and kind and funny in their own ways. I do wish we got to see more of the children who live at Starlight orphanage though, The magic system and the world building were so intriguing. I thought the set up of the world was like nothing I've ever read before, with four major factions coexisting after a magical incident left some of them stranded on that world. I hope there are future books to dive deeper into this world and how each group's magic and history have evolved. Despite being a cozy romantasy, this book also ended up tackling some deeper themes such as classism and personal identity/purpose.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see if there will be more books in this world from the author. Definitely would recommend and will look forward to any future books!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Enola M. Douglas for this advance readers' copy. All opinions are my own. This book is available on October 1, 2026.
October 1, 2026
Thank you to the author for the complementary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was exquisite. It stole my heart and refused to give it back. I absolutely adored the leads, as well as all of the side characters we came to meet. Cassia was strong, resilient, and drowning in grief and rejection due to a lack of tethering outside of her control. At her core, she was the kindest person who only wanted to care for others, and to lesson the burden in whatever way she could. She was an impeccably easy character to fall in love with, and I wasn't surprised with how quickly Ark was taken to his knees by her. Ark was a complicated demon, living in his neglectful parents shadow, fighting the life of privilege he'd been tied to, and always trying to hide who he really was inside, except for from his two close friends and confidants.
Their pact not only brought them together to benefit their public lives, but it tethered them to a private love that swept me off my feet. They were complicated, secretive, and yet slowly they unfurled their inner grief and turmoil until all that left standing was themselves in their purest form. This book hurt and healed, and I am forever obsessed with the way the author writes. Not only were the leads just achingly perfect, but each of their best friends were the balance that rounded out their characters as a whole, and I hope more books in the series encompass their love stories as well.
This isn't just a cozy fantasy, it has depth, machinations, and imagery that you can get lost in. This story was beautiful and captivating and I cant wait to see what the author does with the rest of the series.
This book was exquisite. It stole my heart and refused to give it back. I absolutely adored the leads, as well as all of the side characters we came to meet. Cassia was strong, resilient, and drowning in grief and rejection due to a lack of tethering outside of her control. At her core, she was the kindest person who only wanted to care for others, and to lesson the burden in whatever way she could. She was an impeccably easy character to fall in love with, and I wasn't surprised with how quickly Ark was taken to his knees by her. Ark was a complicated demon, living in his neglectful parents shadow, fighting the life of privilege he'd been tied to, and always trying to hide who he really was inside, except for from his two close friends and confidants.
Their pact not only brought them together to benefit their public lives, but it tethered them to a private love that swept me off my feet. They were complicated, secretive, and yet slowly they unfurled their inner grief and turmoil until all that left standing was themselves in their purest form. This book hurt and healed, and I am forever obsessed with the way the author writes. Not only were the leads just achingly perfect, but each of their best friends were the balance that rounded out their characters as a whole, and I hope more books in the series encompass their love stories as well.
This isn't just a cozy fantasy, it has depth, machinations, and imagery that you can get lost in. This story was beautiful and captivating and I cant wait to see what the author does with the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm sitting here after finishing the book, scrollong through other reviews, and I am still not sure how to rate it.
Okay, maybe the positive things first. I did really like the story. There is just so much to discover ion this world. It is cute, and cozy, and the characters were really likeable.
But…. it feels like I am one of the very few people that did not vibe with the writing style. No, it was no bad writing. It fits the story and the world it is playing in. Yet, the prose made me sometimes sigh and roll my eyes, and gave me a hard time staying invested with over 500 pages - my comfort zone is around 350 pages per book, usually.
So, overall, from me, Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours is going to get solid 3,5 stars.
Okay, maybe the positive things first. I did really like the story. There is just so much to discover ion this world. It is cute, and cozy, and the characters were really likeable.
But…. it feels like I am one of the very few people that did not vibe with the writing style. No, it was no bad writing. It fits the story and the world it is playing in. Yet, the prose made me sometimes sigh and roll my eyes, and gave me a hard time staying invested with over 500 pages - my comfort zone is around 350 pages per book, usually.
So, overall, from me, Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours is going to get solid 3,5 stars.
August 6, 2026
I loved this. I loved everything about this book and I cannot thank NetGalley and Enola M. Douglas enough for this e-Arc of Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors. Amongst the many reasons this was so good, the feeling while reading was like being wrapped in a furry blanket on a chilly fall day while drinking a spiced chai latte. Just a warm hug written on paper. This is a cozy (high-ish stakes) fantasy romance with found family, strangers to lovers (nice and spicyyyy), a whimsical fmc and down bad for her shadow demon mmc who also has his own found family. The main characters strike a deal in their own best interests and a beautiful story unfolds. Currently finding a way to contact the author to see when she’s coming out with a hard copy because I will absolutely be pre-ordering as soon as available. As fall and Halloween get closer, this will be such a nice magical autumn read upon release! (Same cozy vibes of the ex hex)
UPDATE- physical copies will be on sale October 1st! All my mood reader friends will probably be getting copies 😅❤️
UPDATE- physical copies will be on sale October 1st! All my mood reader friends will probably be getting copies 😅❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book felt like a warm kitchen, fresh bread straight from the oven, and finally relaxing your shoulders after a very long day.
It's the coziest, safest magical romance I’ve ever read.
Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours is pure comfort. Enola M. Douglas writes atmosphere beautifully. There are scenes that feel almost sensory, you don't just know what a room looks like; you can imagine what it smells like, how warm it is, what is happening in the kitchen nearby. It gave the story that slightly dreamy, magical quality that cozy fantasy needs in order to really work for me. I cannot tell you how many times this book made me crave a loaf of warm, fluffy bread with a perfectly golden crust. I swear I could practically smell the butter and cinnamon coming off the page.
And that attention to detail extends far beyond the food. There are so many small touches throughout the story that give the world personality. And underneath all that coziness is a genuinely healing romance.
I loved the entire cast. There’s so much personality packed into these characters, but Ark and Cassia are one of my favourite parts of the book. Ark is so wonderfully gentle. No cruelty masquerading as romantic tension, no need to make him an asshole just because he’s powerful. Does he flex his shadow powers literally on the first pages? YESS madame, he does. He commands the room and attention.
His relationship with the FMC develops with genuine care, and that softness made the romance feel far more intimate.
The best word I have for this entire book is "healing".
I do think the writing could use a little tightening in places. Some paragraphs run longer than they need to, and there are occasional repetitions. But those are genuinely small criticisms compared with how much I enjoyed the overall experience.
And I am absolutely over the moon, knowing that there will be a sequel AND more books in this series, because it's so cozy, my soul can rest here.
Five glowing stars.
And for the shadown demon-spice girlies out there, I will only say: Demon horns. You, my babes, know what you crave and you will get it here!
It's the coziest, safest magical romance I’ve ever read.
Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours is pure comfort. Enola M. Douglas writes atmosphere beautifully. There are scenes that feel almost sensory, you don't just know what a room looks like; you can imagine what it smells like, how warm it is, what is happening in the kitchen nearby. It gave the story that slightly dreamy, magical quality that cozy fantasy needs in order to really work for me. I cannot tell you how many times this book made me crave a loaf of warm, fluffy bread with a perfectly golden crust. I swear I could practically smell the butter and cinnamon coming off the page.
And that attention to detail extends far beyond the food. There are so many small touches throughout the story that give the world personality. And underneath all that coziness is a genuinely healing romance.
I loved the entire cast. There’s so much personality packed into these characters, but Ark and Cassia are one of my favourite parts of the book. Ark is so wonderfully gentle. No cruelty masquerading as romantic tension, no need to make him an asshole just because he’s powerful. Does he flex his shadow powers literally on the first pages? YESS madame, he does. He commands the room and attention.
His relationship with the FMC develops with genuine care, and that softness made the romance feel far more intimate.
The best word I have for this entire book is "healing".
I do think the writing could use a little tightening in places. Some paragraphs run longer than they need to, and there are occasional repetitions. But those are genuinely small criticisms compared with how much I enjoyed the overall experience.
And I am absolutely over the moon, knowing that there will be a sequel AND more books in this series, because it's so cozy, my soul can rest here.
Five glowing stars.
And for the shadown demon-spice girlies out there, I will only say: Demon horns. You, my babes, know what you crave and you will get it here!
September 28, 2026
If Enola writes it, I'm immediately reading it, because she has never failed to provide an emotional, beautiful romance along with an enthralling plot and well developed, unique world that leaves a lasting impression! Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanors was an absolute joy to read!! I loved both Cassia and Ark - separately and together. The author fleshed them out so beautifully and I'm super impressed with the sheer amount of character development and world building she was able to accomplish in a single book. Truthfully, I can't gush enough about the romance, especially when it came to Ark!! He's the exact type of MMC I love to read and he'll always have a special place in my heart, along with the strong, yet soft Cassia who wonderfully showcases the strength in resilience and quiet acts of service. I initially didn't realize the next book was going to continue Cassia and Ark's journey, but I'm super excited to see we're going to get more of of them as well as Lilibeth, Opaline, Caius, Rhodes, and the Vale family! I look forward to seeing where the story goes, especially after reading that epilogue, the implications alone open a whole can of worms I'm crazy curious about. I hope we get some more of Anuk, especially considering he is most definitely not just a silly, simple cat and I would slide the author some $$$ for a novella featuring Ark's parents' romance and younger years. Delphyne was such a three dimensional character that really grew on me, and actually ended up being a favorite by the conclusion of Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors. I seriously can't say enough about how absolutely incredible this book is!! Enola M. Douglas is a must read author that everyone needs to pick up ASAP!!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early copy!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op, and the author for the ABSOLUTE PRIVILEDGE of reading this book early. I am voluntarily leaving a review with my own thoughts and opinions.
The biggest complaint I have is that there's not an option for how many stars I would like to give this book!! Five truly doesn't seem like enough. I'm still thinking about the ending of this book and how I would do anything to be able to read it again for the first time.
This was the perfect blend of all the things I love in a romance: yearning, tasteful spice, A MAN WHO LISTENS, banter, true emotional connection, and a world that I want to lose myself in. 10/10 recommend this book!
The plot was perfectly executed, just enough danger and tension to raise the stakes but still keep the cozy vibe, and the characters absolutely blew me away. Ark and Cassia are written so well, I feel like they're MY friends now. I want them to be my friends. Their emotional depth and complexity were absolutely the icing on the cake for their romance! But it wasn't just them - I love the peeks we get into Ark's parents romance, the little comments about Cassia's friends that hint at a depth we hopefully get to explore in coming books, and the backstory of Ark and his BFFS relationship. It was all just so perfectly well written (tells us just enough for this book while also hinting at more) that I am literally begging for more -- I'll cry if I have to, don't think I won't.
I feel like it's rare to find a book that handles navigating deep emotions (grief, childhood loneliness, rejection and self-acceptance) and can also have extremely fun banter, spice, and excellent side characters, but Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours did just that! I feel like shouting this book from the rooftops, because it scratched an itch I didn't know I had.
Enola Douglas is officially an auto-buy author for me!
The biggest complaint I have is that there's not an option for how many stars I would like to give this book!! Five truly doesn't seem like enough. I'm still thinking about the ending of this book and how I would do anything to be able to read it again for the first time.
This was the perfect blend of all the things I love in a romance: yearning, tasteful spice, A MAN WHO LISTENS, banter, true emotional connection, and a world that I want to lose myself in. 10/10 recommend this book!
The plot was perfectly executed, just enough danger and tension to raise the stakes but still keep the cozy vibe, and the characters absolutely blew me away. Ark and Cassia are written so well, I feel like they're MY friends now. I want them to be my friends. Their emotional depth and complexity were absolutely the icing on the cake for their romance! But it wasn't just them - I love the peeks we get into Ark's parents romance, the little comments about Cassia's friends that hint at a depth we hopefully get to explore in coming books, and the backstory of Ark and his BFFS relationship. It was all just so perfectly well written (tells us just enough for this book while also hinting at more) that I am literally begging for more -- I'll cry if I have to, don't think I won't.
I feel like it's rare to find a book that handles navigating deep emotions (grief, childhood loneliness, rejection and self-acceptance) and can also have extremely fun banter, spice, and excellent side characters, but Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours did just that! I feel like shouting this book from the rooftops, because it scratched an itch I didn't know I had.
Enola Douglas is officially an auto-buy author for me!
September 30, 2026
if i had to sum this book up in as few words as possible, they would probably be:
human, intimate, cozy, and above all else, heartfelt
i absolutely ADORED this book. consider this a 6-star review, no question
i'm not usually one for "cozy" genre books. they just never snap for me, or hold my attention very well. this book did NOT have that problem in the slightest. the writing from Douglas is absolutely addicting, the plot is engaging and the characters (including both side characters and cat) are lovable and make you want to read more of them
the writing is genuinely so beautiful in this book, so descriptive without teetering into purple prose or being overtly flowery, you could genuinely feel (or smell) the magic the author lays out for you. i was constantly craving cinnamon buns throughout this book, and i don't even like cinnamon buns like that
the romance is top notch. cute, filled with banter, and you get to see as each notch of their relationship and feelings fall into place (partly due to being dual pov), which i love. i wouldn't describe this as a slowburn, but i wouldn't exactly say this is an insta-burn either! there's some intrigue between them first off, but nothing that feels forced or unusually fast. the pacing fit perfectly in my opinion
as for the world-building, it was the PERFECT amount of indepth. not so much you feel lost, but just enough to sink your teeth into. i'm super excited to see what's revealed further about the world, families, etc in the following book!
ultimately: ate this up, no crumbs, no notes
human, intimate, cozy, and above all else, heartfelt
i absolutely ADORED this book. consider this a 6-star review, no question
i'm not usually one for "cozy" genre books. they just never snap for me, or hold my attention very well. this book did NOT have that problem in the slightest. the writing from Douglas is absolutely addicting, the plot is engaging and the characters (including both side characters and cat) are lovable and make you want to read more of them
the writing is genuinely so beautiful in this book, so descriptive without teetering into purple prose or being overtly flowery, you could genuinely feel (or smell) the magic the author lays out for you. i was constantly craving cinnamon buns throughout this book, and i don't even like cinnamon buns like that
the romance is top notch. cute, filled with banter, and you get to see as each notch of their relationship and feelings fall into place (partly due to being dual pov), which i love. i wouldn't describe this as a slowburn, but i wouldn't exactly say this is an insta-burn either! there's some intrigue between them first off, but nothing that feels forced or unusually fast. the pacing fit perfectly in my opinion
as for the world-building, it was the PERFECT amount of indepth. not so much you feel lost, but just enough to sink your teeth into. i'm super excited to see what's revealed further about the world, families, etc in the following book!
ultimately: ate this up, no crumbs, no notes
October 22, 2026
Review of eARC provided by NetGalley and Victory Editing. Thank you!
Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors is magic in a book. This was a slow beginning for me but after a few chapters, I devoured this book every chance I got. Cassia, is a Kitchen Witch who is trying to ensure the children in her orphanage know nothing but happiness in a world where they are cast aside. When the orphanage’s ownership is threatened by a ruthless Demon, she struggles with finding a solution. Enter Ark, a high Demon who doesn’t care for status. Ark and Cassia enter an entanglement to save the children and convince his mother that he has met his Chosen.
I felt the love grow between Ark and Cassia, it was in the little things they did to and for each other. Instead of big declarations of love, they sought comfort and solidarity within each other despite their differences and the disdain Cassia could have felt for Ark and his family. Truly, this was beautiful. I loved seeing both characters blend their lives, it was done in such a natural way that I sometimes forgot how different they actually were. It was a quiet love that showed through with every flower, raven, and dessert.
Not only did Cassia and Ark shine, but all of the side characters enhanced the magical feel of the story. From their friend groups, to the children, to Ark’s family. Everyone made perfect sense and added to my appreciation of the dynamic. I cannot wait for the next one!
Also cheers to another cat with so much personality. I need Anuck’s POV immediately.
Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors is magic in a book. This was a slow beginning for me but after a few chapters, I devoured this book every chance I got. Cassia, is a Kitchen Witch who is trying to ensure the children in her orphanage know nothing but happiness in a world where they are cast aside. When the orphanage’s ownership is threatened by a ruthless Demon, she struggles with finding a solution. Enter Ark, a high Demon who doesn’t care for status. Ark and Cassia enter an entanglement to save the children and convince his mother that he has met his Chosen.
I felt the love grow between Ark and Cassia, it was in the little things they did to and for each other. Instead of big declarations of love, they sought comfort and solidarity within each other despite their differences and the disdain Cassia could have felt for Ark and his family. Truly, this was beautiful. I loved seeing both characters blend their lives, it was done in such a natural way that I sometimes forgot how different they actually were. It was a quiet love that showed through with every flower, raven, and dessert.
Not only did Cassia and Ark shine, but all of the side characters enhanced the magical feel of the story. From their friend groups, to the children, to Ark’s family. Everyone made perfect sense and added to my appreciation of the dynamic. I cannot wait for the next one!
Also cheers to another cat with so much personality. I need Anuck’s POV immediately.
October 17, 2026
Book review…my love letter to the author.
Dear Enola,
Thank you so much for transporting me to the most beautiful world with some of the most beautiful characters. Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors is easily one of my top reads of the year. Your writing style is captivating, descriptive, and quite honestly just phenomenal.
I fell completely in love with Cassia and Ark from the very beginning and as the story went on, I kept falling harder. The two of them are kind, thoughtful, loving, and between the both of them there are quite a few valuable life lessons that can be learned. Even the side characters captured my heart. ❤️
The story was brilliant, I loved the magic, the pacing was perfection, and I was hooked from start to finish. The descriptions you use, especially of the food, were so vivid I could taste and smell the flavors through the page!
This book is going to hold a place in my heart always. From the lessons about love, friendship, family, healing, and sacrifice to the absolutely delicious and tastefully done spice. I will be honest when I saw cozy romantasy I wasn’t expecting great spice but my god, you delivered and you delivered well! 🥵🔥
Thank you for a wonderful reading experience. This story is perfection. I cannot wait for the next book!
Yours truly,
A HUGE FAN
Dear Enola,
Thank you so much for transporting me to the most beautiful world with some of the most beautiful characters. Smoke, Mirrors, and Misdemeanors is easily one of my top reads of the year. Your writing style is captivating, descriptive, and quite honestly just phenomenal.
I fell completely in love with Cassia and Ark from the very beginning and as the story went on, I kept falling harder. The two of them are kind, thoughtful, loving, and between the both of them there are quite a few valuable life lessons that can be learned. Even the side characters captured my heart. ❤️
The story was brilliant, I loved the magic, the pacing was perfection, and I was hooked from start to finish. The descriptions you use, especially of the food, were so vivid I could taste and smell the flavors through the page!
This book is going to hold a place in my heart always. From the lessons about love, friendship, family, healing, and sacrifice to the absolutely delicious and tastefully done spice. I will be honest when I saw cozy romantasy I wasn’t expecting great spice but my god, you delivered and you delivered well! 🥵🔥
Thank you for a wonderful reading experience. This story is perfection. I cannot wait for the next book!
Yours truly,
A HUGE FAN
July 22, 2026
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶️🌶️
Plot - 🌏🌏🌏
Why am I crying 🙈 this is such a beautiful, cosy and emotional read. I feel so incredibly full of love right now.
Every page, character and word written in this book has been written with so much love and care. You feel it more with every page.
The story is so overwhelmingly cosy and achingly romantic. We follow Ark ( a demon with horns 😍 ) and Cassia (a kitchen witch ) as they navigate a fake engagement in order to save different parts of their lives.
What follows is a tale of mischief, a little chaos and so much fun.
I fell in love with cassia and Arks story within seconds. The banter they shared was elite and I was chuckling so so much. Their private messages to each other were adorable and I couldn’t get enough of them.
There were so many beautiful aspects to this book, the spirit guarding the house, Arks family and poor school for unwanted children. This book healed something in me that I didn’t know needed healing.
Spice - 🌶️🌶️
Plot - 🌏🌏🌏
Why am I crying 🙈 this is such a beautiful, cosy and emotional read. I feel so incredibly full of love right now.
Every page, character and word written in this book has been written with so much love and care. You feel it more with every page.
The story is so overwhelmingly cosy and achingly romantic. We follow Ark ( a demon with horns 😍 ) and Cassia (a kitchen witch ) as they navigate a fake engagement in order to save different parts of their lives.
What follows is a tale of mischief, a little chaos and so much fun.
I fell in love with cassia and Arks story within seconds. The banter they shared was elite and I was chuckling so so much. Their private messages to each other were adorable and I couldn’t get enough of them.
There were so many beautiful aspects to this book, the spirit guarding the house, Arks family and poor school for unwanted children. This book healed something in me that I didn’t know needed healing.
August 11, 2026
Instead of leaving a review, I want to write you a letter.
Dear author,
Unfortunately you ate with this and left no crumbs. I devoured this masterpiece.
I loved being in this world, the heirarchy, the dynamics—I’ve never read anything like it. I never knew I needed a book which felt like JUJUTSU FRIKKIN KAISEN.
I request you to write books for Opalina, Lilibeth, Rhodes, Cauis and Oromon. Please. On my knees.
Also…THIS NEEDS TO BE A KDRAMA I ACCEPT NOTHING LESS.
With regards,
Reader
thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Enola M. Douglas for this advance readers' copy. All opinions are my own.
Dear author,
Unfortunately you ate with this and left no crumbs. I devoured this masterpiece.
I loved being in this world, the heirarchy, the dynamics—I’ve never read anything like it. I never knew I needed a book which felt like JUJUTSU FRIKKIN KAISEN.
I request you to write books for Opalina, Lilibeth, Rhodes, Cauis and Oromon. Please. On my knees.
Also…THIS NEEDS TO BE A KDRAMA I ACCEPT NOTHING LESS.
With regards,
Reader
thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and Enola M. Douglas for this advance readers' copy. All opinions are my own.
September 25, 2026
4,25*
What a lovely, cozy book this was.
What a lovely, cozy book this was.
September 29, 2026
✨ Thank you so much to NetGalley and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book early! ✨
It took me a little longer to read this one because of some personal circumstances and I had to take a break from reading, but once I picked it up again, I absolutely could not put it down. I LOVED it. 🤎
This is such an autumn book. It’s incredibly cozy. I swear I could almost smell cinnamon while reading it. 🍂 The softness of the story, the characters, and especially the relationships between them really got to me. There was something so gentle and comforting about the whole reading experience.
And Ark… 🥹 A total book boyfriend and such a safe place of a character. I absolutely adored him. The relationship between the characters was so sweet and genuine that I never once found myself bored. Honestly, if there had been another 100 pages, I would have happily read them.
There were a few moments where things felt a little repetitive, but thankfully, the story quickly picked itself back up and kept me invested. The pacing might feel a little slow to some readers, but once you get into it, the book really starts to flow. The story is also very easy to follow and never feels complicated.
I would definitely like to read the second book. I actually think this could work as a standalone because the ending itself felt satisfying enough, but after reading the epilogue… well, you might find yourself wanting to know what happens next. 👀
And the spice!!! It was so well-balanced, romantic, and perfectly placed. I absolutely loved those scenes. 🫠🤎
Overall, this was such a warm, cozy, comforting read and exactly the kind of book I needed.
⭐️ 4.5/5
It took me a little longer to read this one because of some personal circumstances and I had to take a break from reading, but once I picked it up again, I absolutely could not put it down. I LOVED it. 🤎
This is such an autumn book. It’s incredibly cozy. I swear I could almost smell cinnamon while reading it. 🍂 The softness of the story, the characters, and especially the relationships between them really got to me. There was something so gentle and comforting about the whole reading experience.
And Ark… 🥹 A total book boyfriend and such a safe place of a character. I absolutely adored him. The relationship between the characters was so sweet and genuine that I never once found myself bored. Honestly, if there had been another 100 pages, I would have happily read them.
There were a few moments where things felt a little repetitive, but thankfully, the story quickly picked itself back up and kept me invested. The pacing might feel a little slow to some readers, but once you get into it, the book really starts to flow. The story is also very easy to follow and never feels complicated.
I would definitely like to read the second book. I actually think this could work as a standalone because the ending itself felt satisfying enough, but after reading the epilogue… well, you might find yourself wanting to know what happens next. 👀
And the spice!!! It was so well-balanced, romantic, and perfectly placed. I absolutely loved those scenes. 🫠🤎
Overall, this was such a warm, cozy, comforting read and exactly the kind of book I needed.
⭐️ 4.5/5
October 12, 2026
Ah this was a perfect seasonal read! I absolutely loved this story, characters, plot and the magic of it all. I think I fell in love with this world and our couple. It was just wholesome and so organic how they formed an alliance that slowly turned into friendship and more. Ah, it was just so good and the slow burn was perfect!
The fake dating aspect really made this book for me.
Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity, I absolutely loved this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants fake dating with magical touches woven into a story.
The fake dating aspect really made this book for me.
Thank you so much for the ARC opportunity, I absolutely loved this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants fake dating with magical touches woven into a story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Smoke, Mirrors, & Misdemeanours by Enola M. Douglas
I knew I would love this one just based on the tropes and the cover. Yes, I totally judge a book by its cover, and the character art definitely gets me too!
This was such a beautifully written cozy fantasy romance. It had all of my favorite elements rolled into one, but make it cozy, and I absolutely loved it.
If you liked The House in the Cerulean Sea but wished it had more romance, you should definitely read this!
I loved the FMC, Cassia. She's headstrong and such a beautiful character all around, this sentence encompasses her beautifully:
“Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
And Ark, is a total shadow daddy, but make it green flag, it was such a breath of fresh air. I loved the development of their love story. It never overtook the plot, but instead complemented it beautifully.
“Say no,” he whispered, “and I’ll stop. Say anything, and I’ll listen.”
“And I never pictured a kitchen witch who’d make me want to be a better man.”
She snorted. “That’s a lot of pressure.”
“Good. I’ve never been good at small commitments.”
I loved the balance of cozy fantasy, romance, magic, found family and all the banter!
I can't wait to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next!
⭐ Story: 4.5 stars
🌶️ Spice: 2.5 chilis
Thank you so much Enola M Duglas for the review copy, all opinions are my own
I knew I would love this one just based on the tropes and the cover. Yes, I totally judge a book by its cover, and the character art definitely gets me too!
This was such a beautifully written cozy fantasy romance. It had all of my favorite elements rolled into one, but make it cozy, and I absolutely loved it.
If you liked The House in the Cerulean Sea but wished it had more romance, you should definitely read this!
I loved the FMC, Cassia. She's headstrong and such a beautiful character all around, this sentence encompasses her beautifully:
“Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
And Ark, is a total shadow daddy, but make it green flag, it was such a breath of fresh air. I loved the development of their love story. It never overtook the plot, but instead complemented it beautifully.
“Say no,” he whispered, “and I’ll stop. Say anything, and I’ll listen.”
“And I never pictured a kitchen witch who’d make me want to be a better man.”
She snorted. “That’s a lot of pressure.”
“Good. I’ve never been good at small commitments.”
I loved the balance of cozy fantasy, romance, magic, found family and all the banter!
I can't wait to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next!
⭐ Story: 4.5 stars
🌶️ Spice: 2.5 chilis
Thank you so much Enola M Duglas for the review copy, all opinions are my own
September 16, 2026
2⭐️
Disclaimer: I received a free eARC of this book from the author. No review was required to receive the eARC, and I am leaving this one voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions expressed below are my own.
I think this might just be a case of “this book wasn’t for me”. I started off enjoying it and excited about it, but the further I got into it the less I found myself liking it.
The plot was fine, though somehow it was slow-paced and yet the main characters’ relationship moved way too quickly. It’s kind of a standard Hallmark movie plot, but with fantasy elements, which again I enjoyed at first but it got old once I realized the author wasn’t going to do anything to really surprise me or break away from that mold. Also, pair that with what felt like the flimsiest excuse for a third-act breakup and I was not having a great time by the final act of the story.
The characters felt kinda boring, unfortunately. I liked the FMC well enough, but she doesn’t feel super memorable. Same for the MMC, though I think he suffers worse than the FMC did from being too close to the “generic male romance lead” stereotype. Their relationship together was fine and even cute/sweet most of the time, but I don’t understand why it had to move so quickly. I think it was day 3 or 4 of knowing each other that they realized they were in love (adding to the Hallmark vibes, tbh). I would’ve much preferred that dragged out a little longer for at least one of them.
Most of the side characters were underutilized and felt flat to me as well. I know this is the first in a series, so maybe that changes in the future, but it was a bit disappointing to see in this book.
The writing style was… not my favorite. The prose felt repetitive and like it was constantly trying to force itself into sounding more poetic than it needed to be. None of the dialogue sounded like it was being spoken by real people, either. I either didn’t notice these issues at first or they got worse as the book went on, because I didn’t really start picking up on them often enough to be annoyed about it until maybe 40-50% through. But it was pervasive throughout the rest of the book as soon as I did notice it.
What I did like about this book was the world building. I thought it was clever and interesting, and seemed well thought out. It’s always fun to see a new take on an urban fantasy setting, and I think the author blended the more modern setting with classic fantasy elements really well.
Disclaimer: I received a free eARC of this book from the author. No review was required to receive the eARC, and I am leaving this one voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions expressed below are my own.
I think this might just be a case of “this book wasn’t for me”. I started off enjoying it and excited about it, but the further I got into it the less I found myself liking it.
The plot was fine, though somehow it was slow-paced and yet the main characters’ relationship moved way too quickly. It’s kind of a standard Hallmark movie plot, but with fantasy elements, which again I enjoyed at first but it got old once I realized the author wasn’t going to do anything to really surprise me or break away from that mold. Also, pair that with what felt like the flimsiest excuse for a third-act breakup and I was not having a great time by the final act of the story.
The characters felt kinda boring, unfortunately. I liked the FMC well enough, but she doesn’t feel super memorable. Same for the MMC, though I think he suffers worse than the FMC did from being too close to the “generic male romance lead” stereotype. Their relationship together was fine and even cute/sweet most of the time, but I don’t understand why it had to move so quickly. I think it was day 3 or 4 of knowing each other that they realized they were in love (adding to the Hallmark vibes, tbh). I would’ve much preferred that dragged out a little longer for at least one of them.
Most of the side characters were underutilized and felt flat to me as well. I know this is the first in a series, so maybe that changes in the future, but it was a bit disappointing to see in this book.
The writing style was… not my favorite. The prose felt repetitive and like it was constantly trying to force itself into sounding more poetic than it needed to be. None of the dialogue sounded like it was being spoken by real people, either. I either didn’t notice these issues at first or they got worse as the book went on, because I didn’t really start picking up on them often enough to be annoyed about it until maybe 40-50% through. But it was pervasive throughout the rest of the book as soon as I did notice it.
What I did like about this book was the world building. I thought it was clever and interesting, and seemed well thought out. It’s always fun to see a new take on an urban fantasy setting, and I think the author blended the more modern setting with classic fantasy elements really well.
October 4, 2026
Enola… you did it again! I already was pretty sure Enola was going to become an “if she writes it, I’ll read it” author for me after Cast Off but Smoke, Mirrors & Misdemeanors cemented it for me.
A kitchen witch with no magical pedigree who runs a bakery and an orphanage storms into a demon-exclusive night club to demand the high-ranking demon purchasing the orphanage land reconsider. Little does she know, the demon prince is watching and he’s intrigued. So starts the “fake” engagement of Cassia and Ark, but they both realize that their act is quickly turning into a whisper of a hope setting the stage for mutual yearning and a love story for the ages 😍
This book is such a fun, whimsical, and cozy! I love how Ark is so in touch with how he feels and what he wants. From the beginning, I could tell he was obsessed with Cassia and I was HERE FOR IT! And Cassia? She is such a wonderfully written female character. While she’s soft, caring, and kind she is also fierce, stubborn, and demanding. She is someone who could be easily underestimated but definitely shouldn’t be. I love that her strength comes from helping the people around her. She is so incredibly selfless and willing to make any sacrifice to ensure the safety of the people she loves.
My favorite thing about this book? The letters. Oh am I a total sucker for some banter and yearning, especially in the form of letters. But not just any letters! Ark sends letters via a raven and Cassia sends them via flowers (all of which Ark saves and permanently preserves btw). Their letters had me giggling and kicking my feet because what do you mean?! They have cellphones AND magic, yet they choose to communicate in such an intimate way… swoon.
Don’t even get me started on the cliffhanger. Enola… what the heck girl? You write this heartfelt love story and then hit me with that epilogue? Talk about sitting on the edge of my seat!! I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and freely given.
A kitchen witch with no magical pedigree who runs a bakery and an orphanage storms into a demon-exclusive night club to demand the high-ranking demon purchasing the orphanage land reconsider. Little does she know, the demon prince is watching and he’s intrigued. So starts the “fake” engagement of Cassia and Ark, but they both realize that their act is quickly turning into a whisper of a hope setting the stage for mutual yearning and a love story for the ages 😍
This book is such a fun, whimsical, and cozy! I love how Ark is so in touch with how he feels and what he wants. From the beginning, I could tell he was obsessed with Cassia and I was HERE FOR IT! And Cassia? She is such a wonderfully written female character. While she’s soft, caring, and kind she is also fierce, stubborn, and demanding. She is someone who could be easily underestimated but definitely shouldn’t be. I love that her strength comes from helping the people around her. She is so incredibly selfless and willing to make any sacrifice to ensure the safety of the people she loves.
My favorite thing about this book? The letters. Oh am I a total sucker for some banter and yearning, especially in the form of letters. But not just any letters! Ark sends letters via a raven and Cassia sends them via flowers (all of which Ark saves and permanently preserves btw). Their letters had me giggling and kicking my feet because what do you mean?! They have cellphones AND magic, yet they choose to communicate in such an intimate way… swoon.
Don’t even get me started on the cliffhanger. Enola… what the heck girl? You write this heartfelt love story and then hit me with that epilogue? Talk about sitting on the edge of my seat!! I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and freely given.
September 25, 2026
After reading this book, I need the cookbook companion for it. Full stop. Everything Cassia made sounded amazing 🤤, and I would love to do a cook-along. I had such a warm feeling while reading; it is absolutely perfect for fall and was so cozy and sweet. I am such a sucker for a MMC who has emotional depth and intelligence, and Ark delivers in this book. Not to mention that the FMC, Cassia, is strong and resilient yet soft and gentle. Such a dichotomy. I was just giddy reading it, and finished it the same day I started. His and Cassia’s story is one borne from desperation that turns into just such a sweet and caring romantic relationship.
It will be a series and one I can’t wait to continue based on the amazing writing and wholesome storyline.
Triggers:
🔺 Review the Content Warning
Themes/Tropes:
🪞Cozy Urban Romance
🪞He falls first 🤌
🪞Witch X Demon
🪞 Fluffy Feline Sidekick
🪞 Fake Engagement
Quotes:
📜”And Ark, who could intimidate half the city without trying, was being roasted by a pack of orphans over missing horns and his age.”
📜“How lovely it is to know there’s a place to go,” he spoke at last, “when one doesn’t wish to be defined by their blood or those who came before them.”
📜”Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
📜”For once, just this once, maybe she could do something different. Even if it hurt.”
📜”To anyone watching, he’d look like an ardent suitor whispering secrets meant only for the dark—his lips nearly brushing the curve of her ear, his breath warm on her cheek. But instead of promises or pleas, he was describing . . . poultry.”
📜”She hadn’t expected an apology, hadn’t needed one. But the fact that he’d given it anyway—that meant more than she wanted to admit.”
Overall Ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
It will be a series and one I can’t wait to continue based on the amazing writing and wholesome storyline.
Triggers:
🔺 Review the Content Warning
Themes/Tropes:
🪞Cozy Urban Romance
🪞He falls first 🤌
🪞Witch X Demon
🪞 Fluffy Feline Sidekick
🪞 Fake Engagement
Quotes:
📜”And Ark, who could intimidate half the city without trying, was being roasted by a pack of orphans over missing horns and his age.”
📜“How lovely it is to know there’s a place to go,” he spoke at last, “when one doesn’t wish to be defined by their blood or those who came before them.”
📜”Instead of pleading for a place at a table that wouldn’t welcome her, she built her own table. And kept adding chairs.”
📜”For once, just this once, maybe she could do something different. Even if it hurt.”
📜”To anyone watching, he’d look like an ardent suitor whispering secrets meant only for the dark—his lips nearly brushing the curve of her ear, his breath warm on her cheek. But instead of promises or pleas, he was describing . . . poultry.”
📜”She hadn’t expected an apology, hadn’t needed one. But the fact that he’d given it anyway—that meant more than she wanted to admit.”
Overall Ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Smoke, Mirrors & Misdemeanours is one of those books that I can see working really well for the right reader... which is not me. I ended up wanting a little more from it.
The prose flows smoothly, and I really liked the setting. There’s a lovely warmth and coziness to the world, and I appreciated that the author actually put thought into the worldbuilding. I especially liked that the MMC has an interesting business rather than simply existing to be Handsome Mysterious Romantasy Man. Unfortunately, personality-wise, that’s pretty much what he was: the perfect, fairly basic romantasy MMC. The FMC was perfectly fine too, but I can’t say she left much of an impression on me.
My biggest issue was the pacing of the romance. I genuinely do not understand why everything had to happen within two weeks. They were basically in love by day three, and from there the relationship just kept accelerating while my brain was still standing at the starting line wondering what happened to the concept of time.
The last 40% was particularly rough for me. It became so slow and predictable, with quite a few clichés and melodrama thrown into the mix, that I was genuinely tempted to DNF. There were also too many smut scenes for my taste, which contributed to the feeling that the book was spending a lot of time on the romance without giving me enough reason to be invested in it.
Ultimately, this is a comfortable book. If you want something light, cozy, predictable, and easy to read, this could absolutely hit the spot. But for me, there just wasn't enough plot and character depth to make me want to continue, so I won't be picking up book two.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
The prose flows smoothly, and I really liked the setting. There’s a lovely warmth and coziness to the world, and I appreciated that the author actually put thought into the worldbuilding. I especially liked that the MMC has an interesting business rather than simply existing to be Handsome Mysterious Romantasy Man. Unfortunately, personality-wise, that’s pretty much what he was: the perfect, fairly basic romantasy MMC. The FMC was perfectly fine too, but I can’t say she left much of an impression on me.
My biggest issue was the pacing of the romance. I genuinely do not understand why everything had to happen within two weeks. They were basically in love by day three, and from there the relationship just kept accelerating while my brain was still standing at the starting line wondering what happened to the concept of time.
The last 40% was particularly rough for me. It became so slow and predictable, with quite a few clichés and melodrama thrown into the mix, that I was genuinely tempted to DNF. There were also too many smut scenes for my taste, which contributed to the feeling that the book was spending a lot of time on the romance without giving me enough reason to be invested in it.
Ultimately, this is a comfortable book. If you want something light, cozy, predictable, and easy to read, this could absolutely hit the spot. But for me, there just wasn't enough plot and character depth to make me want to continue, so I won't be picking up book two.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC!
Read
August 22, 2026As the cozy time of year approaches, this read is a worthy companion. Good thing it’s being released on October 1.
Like all movies and books, the protagonists strike a deal to safe guard whats important to them. But for this book, it has a twist. One is a demon; the other is a half-witch and half-human.
Aura Cassia is a kitchen witch. Her power is meant for healing, infused in the foods she makes. When Agmon Group decides they wish to purchase the orphanage, she storms to the demon’s gentlemen’s club to demand they let it go. It’s the only place half-bloods are welcomed with open arms.
Varil Arkenoth has been titled the idle prince. When he realizes Alderrath wishes to take up the orphanage, he is more than open to piss him off, plus he needs a companion for the Yulefrost season. An attempt to ward off his mother’s matchmaking attempts in exchange for his help in saving the orphanage.
Beautifully written and captivating with each word. A symbol that no matter where you are from, challenges exist whether rich, poor, pure-blood, or half-blood. However, not everyone gets an opportunity to find someone who sees the value in what you value. The main characters in this book are so gentle with each other. I love when books move away from treating each other poorly to being in love. It holds emotional depth
Basically, the main characters in this book have done the work and gone to therapy. I cried, I laughed, and I will be reading this book again and again. They are both positive and have a different vibe to them. No toxic misinterpretations or unnecessary drama. It’s cozy and endearing.
Her currency is sugar and spice.
He asks for a scandalous price.
Like all movies and books, the protagonists strike a deal to safe guard whats important to them. But for this book, it has a twist. One is a demon; the other is a half-witch and half-human.
Aura Cassia is a kitchen witch. Her power is meant for healing, infused in the foods she makes. When Agmon Group decides they wish to purchase the orphanage, she storms to the demon’s gentlemen’s club to demand they let it go. It’s the only place half-bloods are welcomed with open arms.
Varil Arkenoth has been titled the idle prince. When he realizes Alderrath wishes to take up the orphanage, he is more than open to piss him off, plus he needs a companion for the Yulefrost season. An attempt to ward off his mother’s matchmaking attempts in exchange for his help in saving the orphanage.
Beautifully written and captivating with each word. A symbol that no matter where you are from, challenges exist whether rich, poor, pure-blood, or half-blood. However, not everyone gets an opportunity to find someone who sees the value in what you value. The main characters in this book are so gentle with each other. I love when books move away from treating each other poorly to being in love. It holds emotional depth
Basically, the main characters in this book have done the work and gone to therapy. I cried, I laughed, and I will be reading this book again and again. They are both positive and have a different vibe to them. No toxic misinterpretations or unnecessary drama. It’s cozy and endearing.
Her currency is sugar and spice.
He asks for a scandalous price.
July 30, 2026
"He could smother light and bend shadow to his will—and here he sat, undone by a Kitchen Witch with chamomile on her breath and gentle hands."
∘₊✧──────✧₊∘
Review of advanced copy received from author
This was a delightful treat. A cosy fantasy with a soft romance.
We follow the story of Cassia and Ark, who meet in a way that almost feels like fate, as they strike a fake engagement. Cassia to save the orphanage, and Ark so his mother would leave him alone about choosing someone.
Cassia is resilient, gentle, and loving. Ark is steady, quiet, and determined. Seeing them circle around each other was a delight.
I adored watching their interactions, they learned each other slowly, steadily, and gently. You can feel the instant connection and it's authentic rather than forced.
I loved the attention to their friends and family too, they stood out and felt alive and not just as additional characters. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book.
I got unexpectedly attached to Ark's parents. The second we were introduced to Delphyne with the description of her mating mark, I was in awe. And then meeting his father, and things click into place to why he had been absent in his sons' lives. It humanized them in an instant, showed them as people and not what they symbolize in their society.
Each interaction Cassia had with them captivated me. They truly care for their children, and they cared about Cassia. "Because you are loved by the one I love."
And isn't that the sweetest thing?
∘₊✧──────✧₊∘
Review of advanced copy received from author
This was a delightful treat. A cosy fantasy with a soft romance.
We follow the story of Cassia and Ark, who meet in a way that almost feels like fate, as they strike a fake engagement. Cassia to save the orphanage, and Ark so his mother would leave him alone about choosing someone.
Cassia is resilient, gentle, and loving. Ark is steady, quiet, and determined. Seeing them circle around each other was a delight.
I adored watching their interactions, they learned each other slowly, steadily, and gently. You can feel the instant connection and it's authentic rather than forced.
I loved the attention to their friends and family too, they stood out and felt alive and not just as additional characters. I hope we get to see more of them in the next book.
I got unexpectedly attached to Ark's parents. The second we were introduced to Delphyne with the description of her mating mark, I was in awe. And then meeting his father, and things click into place to why he had been absent in his sons' lives. It humanized them in an instant, showed them as people and not what they symbolize in their society.
Each interaction Cassia had with them captivated me. They truly care for their children, and they cared about Cassia. "Because you are loved by the one I love."
And isn't that the sweetest thing?
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