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Patty's Potent Potion
When Shawna Haydel was sixteen years old, she dropped Ashton Guidry’s name into a potion that would supposedly make Ashton fall in love with her. She knew it was silly, but she clung to one irrational thread of hope their friend Patty’s concoction would grant her heart’s desire. Shawna’s hopes were dashed when Ashton packed up her things and went away to college completely unaware of Shawna’s feelings.
Twenty-three years after Patty’s potion was brewed, Ashton returns to her hometown. She finds time has changed a lot, including Shawna. Ashton has done quite a bit of changing, too, and sees Shawna in a whole new light. Perhaps Patty’s potion was potent after all.
In this romantic comedy, Robin Alexander has cooked up a humorous tale about enduring love and friendship.
Twenty-three years after Patty’s potion was brewed, Ashton returns to her hometown. She finds time has changed a lot, including Shawna. Ashton has done quite a bit of changing, too, and sees Shawna in a whole new light. Perhaps Patty’s potion was potent after all.
In this romantic comedy, Robin Alexander has cooked up a humorous tale about enduring love and friendship.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2017
43 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
Robin Alexander
51 books813 followersBorn in 1965, Robin Alexander grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where she still resides. An avid reader of Lesbian fiction, Robin decided to take the leap and try her hand at writing. It didn't take long for her favorite hobby to become a full-time author.
Since her heritage is Scottish and Irish and she’s allergic to seafood, she’s considered an honorary Cajun. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring her state with the top off her Jeep in search of the small towns on the water that inspire her.
Robin is awkward, sometimes shy, loaded with anxieties, accident prone, dangerous with power tools, and has been known to make idiotic decisions. She has been fortunate enough to turn her shortcomings into the hilarious characters you’ll find in her novels and short stories. Her passion is writing funny tales about falling in love, being imperfect and reveling in friendship.
Robin is convinced she has the best job in the world, and she’s extremely grateful for her fans who support her and enable her to do what she loves.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Since her heritage is Scottish and Irish and she’s allergic to seafood, she’s considered an honorary Cajun. When she’s not writing, she’s exploring her state with the top off her Jeep in search of the small towns on the water that inspire her.
Robin is awkward, sometimes shy, loaded with anxieties, accident prone, dangerous with power tools, and has been known to make idiotic decisions. She has been fortunate enough to turn her shortcomings into the hilarious characters you’ll find in her novels and short stories. Her passion is writing funny tales about falling in love, being imperfect and reveling in friendship.
Robin is convinced she has the best job in the world, and she’s extremely grateful for her fans who support her and enable her to do what she loves.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
May 7, 2017
A very sad thing happened just moments ago – the book ended. I’m sad now.
It is rare for me to think and/or say this but I loved the characters in this book to the point that I want to know them in real life, and if they are based on real life people the author knows, then I’m jealous, I am.
There’s Shawna Haydel, 39, work-at-home (she also has a gas station, and is the reason for the ‘financial services’ shelf since she also works as an accountant) mother of 16 year old Alicia ‘Jet’ Haydel; and there's Ashton Guidry, 39, biology teacher and (reluctant temporary) color guard coach at the same school Jet attends. Both of them are the point of views in this book. And both are darn right lovable. The others, the non-point of view characters, are also lovable – though slightly less so depending on the character. There’s Jet, already mentioned, who is also a member of the color guard; and both of Shawna’s parents (Lou and Will) are also still alive and around (Will being the bald man (but for two hairs) who is there in the story, has a distinct personality, but hasn’t much to do with the book; and then there is Lou, another one with a distinct personality, though shown more through her interactions with her own mother – who just happens to live with Lou and Will), and grandmother (Janice, who had been the principal at the high school and is very prim and proper). Rounding out the first tier side characters is Patty – one of the four who were friends in high school (Shawna and Ashton being two of the others, while Cassie makes the fourth but isn’t around the town any longer). Filling in the second tier are those like the band leader Stiles, who is a pushy dick, his girl-friend Joann (who Shawna and the rest knew at high school – as a stuck up bitch), and . . . well, Janice probably goes on this level instead of first tier. Hmm. I kind of ‘ruined’ my tier system so let’s forget about that. Like, I should have had Meagan (Megan?) on the first tier but, like I said, let’s forget about tiers. Megan is Shawna’s 1) best friend; 2) ex-partner/wife (and referred to by Jet as Mom-Megan – one of Jet’s two mothers).
The book opens with a bunch of 16 year olds giggling and writing on paper while 16 year old Patty made a ‘potion’ (not the drinking kind of potion, luckily, since . . . well, spit and stuff). The potion is some kind of love potion – the girls wrote down the person they loved and/or wanted to love them, and put that paper into the potion. Shawna is nervous about the whole thing because she wants to write the name of one of the other young women there, but doesn’t want anyone to know or see the paper. The ritual is concluded, the page is turned, and it’s now 23 years later.
Shawna works out of her home while overseeing her daughter Jet. The ‘present’ part of the book, which apparently takes place in 2015 based on a comment in the book (which literally said ‘it is 2015’), starts off with Jet being super annoyed. And wanting to drop out of the Color Guard team. Because there’s a new coach and she’s bitchy and mean and stuff. Coach Ashole (or Ashhole, I forget spelling now). I suppose I should interject two things here – Shawna and Ashton haven’t communicated in roughly 20 to 21 years, and Shawna has no clue that Ashton has moved back to the small town, so there’s no inherent reason for her to immediately hear ‘Ashole’ and think ‘Ashton’. And she doesn’t immediately realize this fact. But she does want Jet to remain on the team, for now, because of the promises Jet made (and the money spent on the ‘stuff’ associated with being a member of the color guard).
Ashton, meanwhile, has been forced to become the temporary color guard coach due to the current coach needing to step away for a while for emotional reasons (going through a divorce).
And, um, stuff.
There’s no way I can do this book justice so I’m going to move on from my normal rambling.
The book is super humorous, lovely, great book. Brought tears to my eyes several times (from laughter), and there were many humorous moments/scenes. Some of which are created by having the daughter (Jet) catch her mother (Shawna) doing things. Like dance around.
Some of the humor scenes involve just Shawna and Ashton – like the time Shawna catches Ashton sleep walking and , or the time Ashton catches Shawna drinking wine out of a pickle jar due to nerves. Things more humorous in context. Or, I should say, read in the book.
Several of the sex scenes are quite humorous as well. For . . . reasons.
I, relatively recently, read two Alexander books close-ish together and labeled one as the best romance book I’d ever read and the other the best humor book I’d read. Well, I’m pushing both books out of their positions and sliding this book here in their place. This book here is both the best romance book I’ve read and the best humor book I’ve read. I wish to put this book on my top tier, but, sadly, I have to wait until I reread this book to do that.
Rating: 5.99 (only rereads can be 6 star books)
May 4 2017
It is rare for me to think and/or say this but I loved the characters in this book to the point that I want to know them in real life, and if they are based on real life people the author knows, then I’m jealous, I am.
There’s Shawna Haydel, 39, work-at-home (she also has a gas station, and is the reason for the ‘financial services’ shelf since she also works as an accountant) mother of 16 year old Alicia ‘Jet’ Haydel; and there's Ashton Guidry, 39, biology teacher and (reluctant temporary) color guard coach at the same school Jet attends. Both of them are the point of views in this book. And both are darn right lovable. The others, the non-point of view characters, are also lovable – though slightly less so depending on the character. There’s Jet, already mentioned, who is also a member of the color guard; and both of Shawna’s parents (Lou and Will) are also still alive and around (Will being the bald man (but for two hairs) who is there in the story, has a distinct personality, but hasn’t much to do with the book; and then there is Lou, another one with a distinct personality, though shown more through her interactions with her own mother – who just happens to live with Lou and Will), and grandmother (Janice, who had been the principal at the high school and is very prim and proper). Rounding out the first tier side characters is Patty – one of the four who were friends in high school (Shawna and Ashton being two of the others, while Cassie makes the fourth but isn’t around the town any longer). Filling in the second tier are those like the band leader Stiles, who is a pushy dick, his girl-friend Joann (who Shawna and the rest knew at high school – as a stuck up bitch), and . . . well, Janice probably goes on this level instead of first tier. Hmm. I kind of ‘ruined’ my tier system so let’s forget about that. Like, I should have had Meagan (Megan?) on the first tier but, like I said, let’s forget about tiers. Megan is Shawna’s 1) best friend; 2) ex-partner/wife (and referred to by Jet as Mom-Megan – one of Jet’s two mothers).
The book opens with a bunch of 16 year olds giggling and writing on paper while 16 year old Patty made a ‘potion’ (not the drinking kind of potion, luckily, since . . . well, spit and stuff). The potion is some kind of love potion – the girls wrote down the person they loved and/or wanted to love them, and put that paper into the potion. Shawna is nervous about the whole thing because she wants to write the name of one of the other young women there, but doesn’t want anyone to know or see the paper. The ritual is concluded, the page is turned, and it’s now 23 years later.
Shawna works out of her home while overseeing her daughter Jet. The ‘present’ part of the book, which apparently takes place in 2015 based on a comment in the book (which literally said ‘it is 2015’), starts off with Jet being super annoyed. And wanting to drop out of the Color Guard team. Because there’s a new coach and she’s bitchy and mean and stuff. Coach Ashole (or Ashhole, I forget spelling now). I suppose I should interject two things here – Shawna and Ashton haven’t communicated in roughly 20 to 21 years, and Shawna has no clue that Ashton has moved back to the small town, so there’s no inherent reason for her to immediately hear ‘Ashole’ and think ‘Ashton’. And she doesn’t immediately realize this fact. But she does want Jet to remain on the team, for now, because of the promises Jet made (and the money spent on the ‘stuff’ associated with being a member of the color guard).
Ashton, meanwhile, has been forced to become the temporary color guard coach due to the current coach needing to step away for a while for emotional reasons (going through a divorce).
And, um, stuff.
There’s no way I can do this book justice so I’m going to move on from my normal rambling.
The book is super humorous, lovely, great book. Brought tears to my eyes several times (from laughter), and there were many humorous moments/scenes. Some of which are created by having the daughter (Jet) catch her mother (Shawna) doing things. Like dance around.
“Were you backing it up on the fridge?” [Jet]- 24% into the book. Jet catches Shawna dancing for joy when she reconnects with Ashton (and this also might be the scene after Shawna learned that )
“I was…uh…was…removing smudges with my butt. Did you forget something?” [Shawna]
“My laptop. I have a paper due Monday for English. I’ll just go get that now,” Jet said, still looking disconcerted as she left the room.
“I saw a smudge, and I rubbed my butt on it. That’s perfectly normal,” Shawna called after her."
Some of the humor scenes involve just Shawna and Ashton – like the time Shawna catches Ashton sleep walking and , or the time Ashton catches Shawna drinking wine out of a pickle jar due to nerves. Things more humorous in context. Or, I should say, read in the book.
"You're having wine...in a pickle jar. Why is that?" Ashton asked, looking confused.
"Oh." Shawna looked closely at it. "I didn't even notice. I just grabbed it."
Several of the sex scenes are quite humorous as well. For . . . reasons.
I, relatively recently, read two Alexander books close-ish together and labeled one as the best romance book I’d ever read and the other the best humor book I’d read. Well, I’m pushing both books out of their positions and sliding this book here in their place. This book here is both the best romance book I’ve read and the best humor book I’ve read. I wish to put this book on my top tier, but, sadly, I have to wait until I reread this book to do that.
Rating: 5.99 (only rereads can be 6 star books)
May 4 2017
April 27, 2018
This is my second reading of this book. My first reading of this book occurred in May 2017.
Robin Alexander is the perfect example to be used for why I tend to give authors 3 to 5 books before I decide on if I like them or not – if I’ll continue to read them or not (previously I would have used Georgette Heyer). Why do I say this? Simple enough – I read three books by Alexander in 2014 and, naturally, I loved . . . . heh, no. I gave those three books an overall rating of 3.8, though that was mostly due to giving one of the three a rating of 4.5. It then took me two more years to try another book – and then I went on a longish string of 5 star reads. Did I love everything I read after that point? No, of course not. Some books I actually ended up rating worse than the initial three reads, but this is all boring and stuff so I move on. The point is that Alexander ended up being, basically, my favorite author and I almost gave up on her books before I should have. Eh, happens.
If I recorded things correctly, this is the third book I’ve reread by Alexander. And second I’ve placed on my top shelf reachable only by reread books. Alexander is the only author who has more than one work on my 6 star shelf.
Strangely enough, this book was even better than I recalled, and I spotted bits of humor here and there that I am fairly certain I hadn’t noticed the first time. There are both humorous lines, and humorous passages (as in, humorous banter; and, in context, humorous scenes). I loved everyone involved with this book, character-wise (well, I mean, ‘obviously’ I wouldn’t want anything to do with Janice, the grandmother, and she wasn’t great on her own, but the interactions added something to the book). Let’s step back and say: I loved the two main characters, Shawna and Ashton; and a good number of the side characters like Jet the daughter, and Patty the friend (actually, I believe I came to like Patty more this go-around than in the previous read).
The interaction between Shawna & Ashton as friends and lovers was great; the interaction between Patty and both Shawna & Ashton was good; the dynamic of the ex-Megan (Shawna’s ex) was quite good, and I kinda want to see a book starring Megan and Lucy (or Megan and anyone, really, but she seems to be doing well with Lucy so . . .).
Great story line. Humor, romance, sex, . . . hmms . . . humor again.
Rated: 6 stars
April 26 2018
Robin Alexander is the perfect example to be used for why I tend to give authors 3 to 5 books before I decide on if I like them or not – if I’ll continue to read them or not (previously I would have used Georgette Heyer). Why do I say this? Simple enough – I read three books by Alexander in 2014 and, naturally, I loved . . . . heh, no. I gave those three books an overall rating of 3.8, though that was mostly due to giving one of the three a rating of 4.5. It then took me two more years to try another book – and then I went on a longish string of 5 star reads. Did I love everything I read after that point? No, of course not. Some books I actually ended up rating worse than the initial three reads, but this is all boring and stuff so I move on. The point is that Alexander ended up being, basically, my favorite author and I almost gave up on her books before I should have. Eh, happens.
If I recorded things correctly, this is the third book I’ve reread by Alexander. And second I’ve placed on my top shelf reachable only by reread books. Alexander is the only author who has more than one work on my 6 star shelf.
Strangely enough, this book was even better than I recalled, and I spotted bits of humor here and there that I am fairly certain I hadn’t noticed the first time. There are both humorous lines, and humorous passages (as in, humorous banter; and, in context, humorous scenes). I loved everyone involved with this book, character-wise (well, I mean, ‘obviously’ I wouldn’t want anything to do with Janice, the grandmother, and she wasn’t great on her own, but the interactions added something to the book). Let’s step back and say: I loved the two main characters, Shawna and Ashton; and a good number of the side characters like Jet the daughter, and Patty the friend (actually, I believe I came to like Patty more this go-around than in the previous read).
The interaction between Shawna & Ashton as friends and lovers was great; the interaction between Patty and both Shawna & Ashton was good; the dynamic of the ex-Megan (Shawna’s ex) was quite good, and I kinda want to see a book starring Megan and Lucy (or Megan and anyone, really, but she seems to be doing well with Lucy so . . .).
Great story line. Humor, romance, sex, . . . hmms . . . humor again.
Rated: 6 stars
April 26 2018
June 25, 2023
Incredible funny!
A brilliant romantic comedy with great unique amusing characters, many laugh-out-loud moments and hilarious dialogues. I guarantee you, this will add laughter to your day and you’ll love it. Not only will you laugh a lot but you will also enjoy the amazing, riveting and heartwarming lovestory. This is again a smash hit and I highly recommend it.
A brilliant romantic comedy with great unique amusing characters, many laugh-out-loud moments and hilarious dialogues. I guarantee you, this will add laughter to your day and you’ll love it. Not only will you laugh a lot but you will also enjoy the amazing, riveting and heartwarming lovestory. This is again a smash hit and I highly recommend it.
May 29, 2017
Four friends in high school, one of whom has a mad crush on another.
Twenty years later, Ashton moves back to town to teach biology and coach the flag team at the same school they all went to. There she runs into Shawna, who now has a teenage daughter in Ashton's flag team. Can the sparks fly again, and will it have a different outcome this time?
This sounds like the standard 'She was in love with her and then they split for twenty years and now they reconnect and fall in love again' story. And so it is, in some ways.
What makes this special is just how funny the book is. I was laughing out loud on so many occasions throughout the story. It isn't just the one liners, but the situations and the characters who are often darkly comic.
There was a really lovely sense of connection between Ashton and Shawna. They were both smart and capable, and yet Shawna has been given a really dry sense of humour which lightens the tense scenes deliciously. There was a lovely sense of development as the two main characters reconnected, and as they did, the sense of their shared history and sense of play came out in both of them.
There were also several other characters who had very comic roles within the book, and yet I had a good sense of who they were and how they operate within the story. Shawna's grandmother who was a harridan who hated everyone, was only tamed by a discussion about sex, so explicitly delivered by Shawna's mum, to keep the harridan under control. There is Ashton's best friend Patty, one of the original members of the group, who is just a hoot. A good heart, but speaks her mind without thought of the consequences and is hilarious in the role.
This was a very funny book. I loved all the characters. The pace ticked along merrily, and the plot never outstayed it's welcome. This was a joy to read. I highly recommend it for a merry romance with delightful characters.
Twenty years later, Ashton moves back to town to teach biology and coach the flag team at the same school they all went to. There she runs into Shawna, who now has a teenage daughter in Ashton's flag team. Can the sparks fly again, and will it have a different outcome this time?
This sounds like the standard 'She was in love with her and then they split for twenty years and now they reconnect and fall in love again' story. And so it is, in some ways.
What makes this special is just how funny the book is. I was laughing out loud on so many occasions throughout the story. It isn't just the one liners, but the situations and the characters who are often darkly comic.
There was a really lovely sense of connection between Ashton and Shawna. They were both smart and capable, and yet Shawna has been given a really dry sense of humour which lightens the tense scenes deliciously. There was a lovely sense of development as the two main characters reconnected, and as they did, the sense of their shared history and sense of play came out in both of them.
There were also several other characters who had very comic roles within the book, and yet I had a good sense of who they were and how they operate within the story. Shawna's grandmother who was a harridan who hated everyone, was only tamed by a discussion about sex, so explicitly delivered by Shawna's mum, to keep the harridan under control. There is Ashton's best friend Patty, one of the original members of the group, who is just a hoot. A good heart, but speaks her mind without thought of the consequences and is hilarious in the role.
This was a very funny book. I loved all the characters. The pace ticked along merrily, and the plot never outstayed it's welcome. This was a joy to read. I highly recommend it for a merry romance with delightful characters.
August 16, 2018
Shawna was in love with Ashton when she was 16 and now, over 20 years later, that feeling is still there. Ashton takes a job a the high school she attended to find that Shawna also returned to the small town a couple of years before and her 16-year-old daughter is one of her students.
The thing I loved most about this book is the relationships. So many of the dynamics are integral to the story like Shawna's relationship with her ex, the way they both deal with their daughter (individually and together), her relationship with childhood friends, the childhood friends with each other and coming to terms with her love of her best childhood friend. Shawna's mother is a scream in the way she deals with her own mother who was the headmistress of the school when Shawna and Ashton were there.
The only minor issue I had was that I found that Shawna and Ashton lacked chemistry because of their familiarity with each other. I did like their relationship as a whole though. This might be might my favourite Alexander with Fearless a close second.
The thing I loved most about this book is the relationships. So many of the dynamics are integral to the story like Shawna's relationship with her ex, the way they both deal with their daughter (individually and together), her relationship with childhood friends, the childhood friends with each other and coming to terms with her love of her best childhood friend. Shawna's mother is a scream in the way she deals with her own mother who was the headmistress of the school when Shawna and Ashton were there.
The only minor issue I had was that I found that Shawna and Ashton lacked chemistry because of their familiarity with each other. I did like their relationship as a whole though. This might be might my favourite Alexander with Fearless a close second.
May 15, 2022
Lori Prince’s comedic timing is made for Robin Alexander’s stories
Robin Alexander is the author of more than thirty Sapphic novels, which are gradually being released on audio, mostly narrated by Lori Prince. Patty’s Potent Potion was originally published in 2017.
When Shawna Haydel was sixteen years old she dropped Ashton Guidry’s name into a love potion. But soon after that, Ashton left for college and completely ended communications with Shawna, breaking Shawna’s heart in the process. Twenty-three years after Patty’s potion was brewed, Ashton returns to her hometown and sees Shawna again. Both women have changed a lot but their bond is still strong so maybe Patty’s Potion was Potent after all…
I feel like I repeat myself every time I review one of Ms. Alexander’s books, but she has a very distinctive style that is easily recognisable. Quirky characters, ridiculously funny situations, and sweet but hot romances are par for the course and this one is no exception. Her settings are also typical, normally from her home state of Louisiana.
This is a friends-to-lovers romance but also could be considered a second chance trope as the main characters had a very close friendship as teenagers with some romantic feelings involved. When two people have a strong friendship bond and are separated for a while, it’s easy to catch up where they left even after many years have passed. Ms. Alexander perfectly captures the process in which Shawna and Ashton reconnect and revive their friendship as adults. It’s sweet to see how it eventually dawns on them that there’s more to their relationship than a platonic friendship.
As it’s usual in Ms. Alexander’s books, the cast of secondary characters is very well developed and adds a lot of depth to the story. Patty is a riot, Meg is the ubiquitous ex that every lesbian has as a friend, and Shawn’s daughter is very funny as the typical awkward and sarcastic teenager. The couple of scenes that happen in the closet (an actual closet, not a metaphoric one) are absolutely hilarious and show the family and friends dynamic perfectly. These little gems are what make Ms. Alexander’s books so special.
This is the first book I’ve encountered that features a color guard group, a type of performance that I’ve never paid much attention to. I’m not sure how the author made this type of activity interesting but she even managed to add a bit of conflict to it. It made the context of the story very original.
Lori Prince narrated the audio version and, once again, shows why she’s the perfect match to narrate Robin Alexander’s books. Ms. Prince’s comedic timing is made for these types of stories. She always delivers with the perfect tempo, inflection and energy. If you are looking for a sweet romance with lots of funny moments, then this one is for you. 4.5 stars.
Length: 7 hours, 2 minutes
Available in Scribd
Robin Alexander is the author of more than thirty Sapphic novels, which are gradually being released on audio, mostly narrated by Lori Prince. Patty’s Potent Potion was originally published in 2017.
When Shawna Haydel was sixteen years old she dropped Ashton Guidry’s name into a love potion. But soon after that, Ashton left for college and completely ended communications with Shawna, breaking Shawna’s heart in the process. Twenty-three years after Patty’s potion was brewed, Ashton returns to her hometown and sees Shawna again. Both women have changed a lot but their bond is still strong so maybe Patty’s Potion was Potent after all…
I feel like I repeat myself every time I review one of Ms. Alexander’s books, but she has a very distinctive style that is easily recognisable. Quirky characters, ridiculously funny situations, and sweet but hot romances are par for the course and this one is no exception. Her settings are also typical, normally from her home state of Louisiana.
This is a friends-to-lovers romance but also could be considered a second chance trope as the main characters had a very close friendship as teenagers with some romantic feelings involved. When two people have a strong friendship bond and are separated for a while, it’s easy to catch up where they left even after many years have passed. Ms. Alexander perfectly captures the process in which Shawna and Ashton reconnect and revive their friendship as adults. It’s sweet to see how it eventually dawns on them that there’s more to their relationship than a platonic friendship.
As it’s usual in Ms. Alexander’s books, the cast of secondary characters is very well developed and adds a lot of depth to the story. Patty is a riot, Meg is the ubiquitous ex that every lesbian has as a friend, and Shawn’s daughter is very funny as the typical awkward and sarcastic teenager. The couple of scenes that happen in the closet (an actual closet, not a metaphoric one) are absolutely hilarious and show the family and friends dynamic perfectly. These little gems are what make Ms. Alexander’s books so special.
This is the first book I’ve encountered that features a color guard group, a type of performance that I’ve never paid much attention to. I’m not sure how the author made this type of activity interesting but she even managed to add a bit of conflict to it. It made the context of the story very original.
Lori Prince narrated the audio version and, once again, shows why she’s the perfect match to narrate Robin Alexander’s books. Ms. Prince’s comedic timing is made for these types of stories. She always delivers with the perfect tempo, inflection and energy. If you are looking for a sweet romance with lots of funny moments, then this one is for you. 4.5 stars.
Length: 7 hours, 2 minutes
Available in Scribd
March 21, 2019
Robin Alexander, how do you manage to crack me up so much?
I'd originally started this book last year, but I wasn't in the right headspace to enjoy it, so I kept it in currently reading limbo. Looks like I made the right decision because when I started again from the beginning, it was like reading a whole other book! I'm glad I took my time. :)
As with many of Alexander's books, we're tossed in a world of lovable women in their thirties and forties falling in love, wacky older family members, Southern charm, and laughs galore.
Our love connection includes Shawna Haydel and Ashton Guidry. They've been friends since high school. High school is already difficult, but imagine being hopelessly in love with your best friend. That's where Shawna finds herself. So, years later, imagine her feelings when she finds out Ashton not only plays for the same team, but she's single (and hot!).
Their path to finding love is so cute and pretty steamy when they get more serious. I could've even used more sex, though I'm sure I'm a broken record at this point.
Alexander actually managed to write a realistic teenage character that didn't drive me crazy! Witchcraft!
Oh, and I actually loved Patty even if she's so EXTRA, haha.
Loved it. 4.5 stars!
I'd originally started this book last year, but I wasn't in the right headspace to enjoy it, so I kept it in currently reading limbo. Looks like I made the right decision because when I started again from the beginning, it was like reading a whole other book! I'm glad I took my time. :)
As with many of Alexander's books, we're tossed in a world of lovable women in their thirties and forties falling in love, wacky older family members, Southern charm, and laughs galore.
Our love connection includes Shawna Haydel and Ashton Guidry. They've been friends since high school. High school is already difficult, but imagine being hopelessly in love with your best friend. That's where Shawna finds herself. So, years later, imagine her feelings when she finds out Ashton not only plays for the same team, but she's single (and hot!).
Their path to finding love is so cute and pretty steamy when they get more serious. I could've even used more sex, though I'm sure I'm a broken record at this point.
Alexander actually managed to write a realistic teenage character that didn't drive me crazy! Witchcraft!
Oh, and I actually loved Patty even if she's so EXTRA, haha.
Loved it. 4.5 stars!
November 12, 2018
You know you're onto a winner when the first page makes you laugh out loud… It seems to be a trend with Robin Alexander. She continuously creates romantic comedies that a reader can read again and again and laugh at the same chapters.
This story followed the lives of Shawna and Ashton who move back to their home town. Shawna has always harboured feelings for Ashton since high school but Ashton never seemed to be on the same page. Now they are both back in town for good and Ashton is seeing Shawna in a whole new light.
There is the usual dash of angst but not too much as this is a Robin Alexander Novel and she excels in writing love stories that don't need it.
I actually always seem to bond with secondary characters in Robin Alexander novels. In this one I really loved Meg, Shawna’s ex! She was genuine, caring and to be honest it left me wishing all my ex’s had been this easy to get along with.
Great story and I can’t wait to see what Robin Alexander throws at us next.
4.5 stars
This story followed the lives of Shawna and Ashton who move back to their home town. Shawna has always harboured feelings for Ashton since high school but Ashton never seemed to be on the same page. Now they are both back in town for good and Ashton is seeing Shawna in a whole new light.
There is the usual dash of angst but not too much as this is a Robin Alexander Novel and she excels in writing love stories that don't need it.
I actually always seem to bond with secondary characters in Robin Alexander novels. In this one I really loved Meg, Shawna’s ex! She was genuine, caring and to be honest it left me wishing all my ex’s had been this easy to get along with.
Great story and I can’t wait to see what Robin Alexander throws at us next.
4.5 stars
September 12, 2020
This is my 26th RA book. And this one doesn't disappoint in the least. Quirky, funny as heck, and down right a great read. Robin has a real knack when it comes to her secondaries. I'm not sure I know of anyone who does secondary characters better. Jet the kidult really stands out, she's pretty awesome. Anyway. Loved this. But then again, I knew I would.
May 11, 2017
4.5 Star book. Rounded up to 5 STARS
I really enjoyed the interplay between Shawna, Ashton, Jet & Megan. It was pleasant to read about true friendships. And of course with the usual Alexander LOL humor. I read much of this book in public - difficult not to guffaw too loudly!
I could do with less of the crazy Grandmas. It got old after awhile. I agree with Kurt's review that Alexander doesn't need them to write a very humorous book.
I can't wait for the next Alexander book!
I really enjoyed the interplay between Shawna, Ashton, Jet & Megan. It was pleasant to read about true friendships. And of course with the usual Alexander LOL humor. I read much of this book in public - difficult not to guffaw too loudly!
I could do with less of the crazy Grandmas. It got old after awhile. I agree with Kurt's review that Alexander doesn't need them to write a very humorous book.
I can't wait for the next Alexander book!
June 9, 2023
More enjoyable than I was expecting. There were parts that made me laugh out loud which is a rare occurrence.
The sapphic pairing was older, in their late 30s/early 40s. I was also happy to see that the couple talked about their feelings and had lots of communication.
Certainly worth the read if you are looking for more of a feel good sapphic contemporary romance. I will point out that listened to the audiobook and there were certainly some hiccups including wrong character names in some scenes. It might not be the most flawless but if you are looking for something to easy and light to fall into this might be for you.
The sapphic pairing was older, in their late 30s/early 40s. I was also happy to see that the couple talked about their feelings and had lots of communication.
Certainly worth the read if you are looking for more of a feel good sapphic contemporary romance. I will point out that listened to the audiobook and there were certainly some hiccups including wrong character names in some scenes. It might not be the most flawless but if you are looking for something to easy and light to fall into this might be for you.
May 25, 2017
This is a book without drama or angst. From start to end the story makes you laugh out loud while the romance is developing very fast. This is not a slow burn romance because both main characters have known each other since high school. The author has a special talent for creating a world where secondary characters play an important role.
May 14, 2017
Robin Alexander never let's her readers down. "Patty's Potent Potion" is a lovely blend of sweet and outright hilarious. I loved Ashton and Shawna together and the kid, exes, family, colleagues and friends all worked in that perfect mix that only Robin know's how to blend together. The only one that did not really fit was grandma Janice. She was a disconnect.
June 4, 2017
This is my first Robin Alexander novel.... and this book had me howling with tears. Are all her books this funny? The story was great, the characters have got chemistry ... the whole book was fantastic.
May 11, 2017
I gave myself a few hours to decide my final rating. And it's 4.5.
You gotta give it to Robin Alexander. She writes great books that will make you laugh. She also writes awesome characters. one minute you will hate them and then the next you will like them.
I want to read more about Shawna and Ashton. Their story is really sweet. This is recommended if you're looking for a a nice quick read.
I like Jet, Meg, and of course Patty.
You can can really feel the love and connection between Shawna and Ash even though they haven't seen each other for 21 years. It's not hard to be convinced because of their strong chemistry.
You gotta give it to Robin Alexander. She writes great books that will make you laugh. She also writes awesome characters. one minute you will hate them and then the next you will like them.
I want to read more about Shawna and Ashton. Their story is really sweet. This is recommended if you're looking for a a nice quick read.
I like Jet, Meg, and of course Patty.
You can can really feel the love and connection between Shawna and Ash even though they haven't seen each other for 21 years. It's not hard to be convinced because of their strong chemistry.
March 5, 2018
4.5 🌟 romcom is Robin Alexander’s game. This book is my third. I like the story although at some point I wanted some serious moments because the fun can get tiresome too.
Still a nice read.
Still a nice read.
April 27, 2017
Hilarious & Wonderful
I look forward to reading Robin's stories, they always help me come down after a stressful day. Her character's are full of so much humor and fun and just sexy. Shawna and Ashton were pretty good together and the supporting character's of Jet, Patty and Megan as well as Lou, made the story that much better. I really enjoyed the closeness of both the mother daughter pairs (Shawna and Jet, Shawna and Lou) they were hilarious together and very respectful of one another. Janice was a hoot.
I look forward to reading Robin's stories, they always help me come down after a stressful day. Her character's are full of so much humor and fun and just sexy. Shawna and Ashton were pretty good together and the supporting character's of Jet, Patty and Megan as well as Lou, made the story that much better. I really enjoyed the closeness of both the mother daughter pairs (Shawna and Jet, Shawna and Lou) they were hilarious together and very respectful of one another. Janice was a hoot.
October 11, 2022
I'll say this about Robin Alexander: She is really committed to her formula. And I really, really wish she wasn't because it continues to derail my enjoyment of her novels. So why on earth do I keep coming back to them? That's a fair question and an excellent point. The barrel is currently low? I'm hoping she'll surprise me? Both are true, but mainly it's because I generally enjoy the romances themselves--despite the background noise that is neither funny (to me) nor adds anything to the narrative.
The element I find so cringe-worthy and eye-rolling and, if I wasn't reading this on my phone, would actually probably propel my book across the room in unadulterated rage, is Alexander's insistence on including her crass old ladies. And this time it was just was especially dumb and definitely not at all funny. A grown woman randomly yelling out words like "penis" and "blow job" repeatedly at various point in the novel? Come on! If this is your first Alexander novel, you may find this to be hilarious, but please know a variation of this hilarity will feature in every single Alexander novel (at least in my experience so far).
But if you can get past that, the romance, which is at the heart of the novel is very lovely. High school BFFs reunited as adults who find themselves attracted to each other (okay, one was always attracted to the other)? Yes, please! The romance is not at all angsty which doesn't tend to bother me, and it doesn't here. I mention it because if no/low-angst romances are not your thing, steer clear of this. I thought this aspect was cute.
I'm on the fence about the rest of the novel. It's a lot of unnecessary silliness, IMO. But I'm definitely in the minority about Robin Alexander's books. And, despite all of this, I will likely read more. I don't like this about myself. But it's true. Sigh.
LOL
Two stars for the romance. I can't do any higher because I've read this same Alexander novel 5 times, even though they have different titles.
The element I find so cringe-worthy and eye-rolling and, if I wasn't reading this on my phone, would actually probably propel my book across the room in unadulterated rage, is Alexander's insistence on including her crass old ladies. And this time it was just was especially dumb and definitely not at all funny. A grown woman randomly yelling out words like "penis" and "blow job" repeatedly at various point in the novel? Come on! If this is your first Alexander novel, you may find this to be hilarious, but please know a variation of this hilarity will feature in every single Alexander novel (at least in my experience so far).
But if you can get past that, the romance, which is at the heart of the novel is very lovely. High school BFFs reunited as adults who find themselves attracted to each other (okay, one was always attracted to the other)? Yes, please! The romance is not at all angsty which doesn't tend to bother me, and it doesn't here. I mention it because if no/low-angst romances are not your thing, steer clear of this. I thought this aspect was cute.
I'm on the fence about the rest of the novel. It's a lot of unnecessary silliness, IMO. But I'm definitely in the minority about Robin Alexander's books. And, despite all of this, I will likely read more. I don't like this about myself. But it's true. Sigh.
LOL
Two stars for the romance. I can't do any higher because I've read this same Alexander novel 5 times, even though they have different titles.
July 20, 2017
Just like one of the reviewer said.. it sad because the book end.
This book is hilarious, I laugh so hard and couldnt stop it, even my brother gave me a weird look at me. This book became one of my favorite now and i will reread it again in the future.
I like every characters in this book. They are supportive and also so damn funny at the same time. Both main characters are also sweet and funny. I love both Jet's mothers, they are supportive, lovable, funny, warming, understandable and emotional (in a good way, like when Jet said something that move them to tear. I found that was cute and adorable haha). Eventhough both mother dont love each other as a lover any more, they still have love as a family and have each other back.
This is such a heartwarming book and so funny at the same time. I would recommend everyone to read it, if you need to lighten up your mood.
Robin Alexander, you're my favorite author now xD
This book is hilarious, I laugh so hard and couldnt stop it, even my brother gave me a weird look at me. This book became one of my favorite now and i will reread it again in the future.
I like every characters in this book. They are supportive and also so damn funny at the same time. Both main characters are also sweet and funny. I love both Jet's mothers, they are supportive, lovable, funny, warming, understandable and emotional (in a good way, like when Jet said something that move them to tear. I found that was cute and adorable haha). Eventhough both mother dont love each other as a lover any more, they still have love as a family and have each other back.
This is such a heartwarming book and so funny at the same time. I would recommend everyone to read it, if you need to lighten up your mood.
Robin Alexander, you're my favorite author now xD
June 2, 2017
Classic Robin Alexander.
If you're familiar with books by this author you already know what to expect. Her books are generally packed with laugh out loud moments and have very little to no angst at all. This book is no exception to that. It's full of shenanigans by a drunken best friend, a homophobic grandmother and a teenage daughter too wise for her years.
Although it's not my favorite book by this author it's a sweet story between two former best friends reconnecting again after 23 years and ends up with a solid 3.75* rating.
If you're familiar with books by this author you already know what to expect. Her books are generally packed with laugh out loud moments and have very little to no angst at all. This book is no exception to that. It's full of shenanigans by a drunken best friend, a homophobic grandmother and a teenage daughter too wise for her years.
Although it's not my favorite book by this author it's a sweet story between two former best friends reconnecting again after 23 years and ends up with a solid 3.75* rating.
January 29, 2023
Robin Alexander makes me laugh out loud a lot!!! The narrator was outstanding in this audiobook!
July 2, 2017
The first couple times that Shawna and Ashton get caught in a compromising situation was funny after that it just got tedious. This is a very subdued romance. Other than that, I enjoyed this story. However, if you are looking for hot romance, this is not the book. I get the impression that Robin Alexander is not comfortable writing love scenes.
May 4, 2017
Lovely book. Well written en very funny with a nice romance
December 4, 2018
I loveit.. The humor is life.
May 14, 2022
5/10
edit /// how did i forget to mention the cover? feel like there is not a single thought put in when doing the robin alexander covers (i think there was one exeption) and that always makes me sad when authors neglect the visual aspect of their books. why would you already degrade your book in literal first steps of publishing it? the book is supposed to be a full package and it will never be that if the graphic art it something you do in 4 minutes in paint on windows xp in the early 2000s. i am dramatic sometimes but this kind of attittude towards your own art is tragic really right? ///
right down the middle.
i like how most of the books by robin alexander i read have a kid in them.
this is like the fifth book ive read by the author and it definitely falls short of other books like the lure of white oak lake which was high in comedy or the summer of discontent which had enemies to lovers trope. this was a bit unseasoned - too simple i guess.
wasnt a fan of way things unfolded since i was excpeting a bit of a slow burn and not the mcs to just jump into the relationship.
jet is the best character by far and i love her.
9/10 audio
lori prince as usual doesnt disappoint. i feel like reading the book wouldnt have been such a nice experience as it was listening to the audiobook. i probably wouldnt have finished it were i reading by myself.
edit /// how did i forget to mention the cover? feel like there is not a single thought put in when doing the robin alexander covers (i think there was one exeption) and that always makes me sad when authors neglect the visual aspect of their books. why would you already degrade your book in literal first steps of publishing it? the book is supposed to be a full package and it will never be that if the graphic art it something you do in 4 minutes in paint on windows xp in the early 2000s. i am dramatic sometimes but this kind of attittude towards your own art is tragic really right? ///
right down the middle.
i like how most of the books by robin alexander i read have a kid in them.
this is like the fifth book ive read by the author and it definitely falls short of other books like the lure of white oak lake which was high in comedy or the summer of discontent which had enemies to lovers trope. this was a bit unseasoned - too simple i guess.
wasnt a fan of way things unfolded since i was excpeting a bit of a slow burn and not the mcs to just jump into the relationship.
jet is the best character by far and i love her.
9/10 audio
lori prince as usual doesnt disappoint. i feel like reading the book wouldnt have been such a nice experience as it was listening to the audiobook. i probably wouldnt have finished it were i reading by myself.
Read
May 17, 2022Alexander never disappoints!
PPP is sweet and hilarious! The cast of characters are well developed and enjoyable.
Lori Prince’s performance was perfect as always.
Smiling and laughing the entire time!
PPP is sweet and hilarious! The cast of characters are well developed and enjoyable.
Lori Prince’s performance was perfect as always.
Smiling and laughing the entire time!
November 26, 2025
A really lovely book, though embarrassing to laugh outloud in the gym whilst exercising. Love the audio as haven't read since 2017 (why not?) Very funny with a poignant love story. So recommended!
May 28, 2017
All of my lovely lesfic friends here on GoodReads can't get enough of Robin Alexander, but for whatever reason, I just hadn't cracked one of her books yet. Plenty sat on my to-read list, but they never happened. But this book, the monthly pick over at Mostly Lesfic, seemed like the perfect cozy romance to dig into on a chilly, rainy afternoon. I was right--it definitely hit the spot!
Patty's Potent Potion is a great mix of humor, romance, family drama, and Southern charm. I've never read a lesbian romance with such a fresh and modern take on lesbian motherhood and dating past 30. It allows the characters to be themselves and not compromise their identities to suit their surroundings. Sure, Shawna and her ex (and still current BFF) Meg play it cool at their daughter Jet's new school, but they only do it to keep themselves out of the small-town spotlight while Jet gets adjusted. And Ashton may not come out right away to the girls she's coaching on the school's color guard team, but she's more worried about not gaining their respect if they know too much about her personal life than about possible homophobia. This is a romance that is firmly grounded in a 2017 sensibility, which allows new life to be breathed into the genre.
I can see why everyone loves Alexander's books so much--her lesbians are not tragic or troubled, they're real, and they're absolutely hilarious. Maybe all the humor didn't work for me--some of it fell flat, even. I'm not sure how much more I could take of Shawna's grandma's revulsion towards "dirty" words. But I was absolutely busting a stitch reading about Ashton and Shawna fumbling their way into some semblance of a sexual relationship after not seeing each other for 21 long years. They have real-woman insecurities, real-woman hang-ups and fears, but they also have the real-woman attitude of "I don't care how saggy you are or if you still talk to your ex or if your 16-year-old daughter caught us humping on the couch, I like you and you're pretty, so let's do this." It's so refreshing.
The family and friendship dynamics are absolutely perfect. Every character is rich and real and full of life. Jet sounds like a real teenagers, Patty is pretty much exactly that annoying friend you can't help but adore despite her flaws, and even the "villain" has her own realistic redemption arc. The plot itself (besides the romance, which is amazing) is actually pretty decent. It feels distinctly Southern with all the moms getting involved in high school sports drama and trying to figure out what is real and what is rumor. It's low stakes and just what is needed for a little pick-me-up.
This is so, so petty of me to say, but it's seriously bugging me--the worst part of Robin Alexander's books are the covers. They are so bad! They look like something I could make in ten minutes with PowerPoint transitions and Google image searching. Her book Scaredy Cat, which sounds amazing and is next on my list of her books I want to read, has probably the worst one. For a talented author who appears to write for a legit small press, she'd really benefit from a better cover artist. These books just look way to unprofessional compared to the level of her writing.
Despite that book-snob complaint, I'm excited to read more of her books. She's a breath of fresh air in the lesfic community.
Patty's Potent Potion is a great mix of humor, romance, family drama, and Southern charm. I've never read a lesbian romance with such a fresh and modern take on lesbian motherhood and dating past 30. It allows the characters to be themselves and not compromise their identities to suit their surroundings. Sure, Shawna and her ex (and still current BFF) Meg play it cool at their daughter Jet's new school, but they only do it to keep themselves out of the small-town spotlight while Jet gets adjusted. And Ashton may not come out right away to the girls she's coaching on the school's color guard team, but she's more worried about not gaining their respect if they know too much about her personal life than about possible homophobia. This is a romance that is firmly grounded in a 2017 sensibility, which allows new life to be breathed into the genre.
I can see why everyone loves Alexander's books so much--her lesbians are not tragic or troubled, they're real, and they're absolutely hilarious. Maybe all the humor didn't work for me--some of it fell flat, even. I'm not sure how much more I could take of Shawna's grandma's revulsion towards "dirty" words. But I was absolutely busting a stitch reading about Ashton and Shawna fumbling their way into some semblance of a sexual relationship after not seeing each other for 21 long years. They have real-woman insecurities, real-woman hang-ups and fears, but they also have the real-woman attitude of "I don't care how saggy you are or if you still talk to your ex or if your 16-year-old daughter caught us humping on the couch, I like you and you're pretty, so let's do this." It's so refreshing.
The family and friendship dynamics are absolutely perfect. Every character is rich and real and full of life. Jet sounds like a real teenagers, Patty is pretty much exactly that annoying friend you can't help but adore despite her flaws, and even the "villain" has her own realistic redemption arc. The plot itself (besides the romance, which is amazing) is actually pretty decent. It feels distinctly Southern with all the moms getting involved in high school sports drama and trying to figure out what is real and what is rumor. It's low stakes and just what is needed for a little pick-me-up.
This is so, so petty of me to say, but it's seriously bugging me--the worst part of Robin Alexander's books are the covers. They are so bad! They look like something I could make in ten minutes with PowerPoint transitions and Google image searching. Her book Scaredy Cat, which sounds amazing and is next on my list of her books I want to read, has probably the worst one. For a talented author who appears to write for a legit small press, she'd really benefit from a better cover artist. These books just look way to unprofessional compared to the level of her writing.
Despite that book-snob complaint, I'm excited to read more of her books. She's a breath of fresh air in the lesfic community.
April 27, 2017
Another Robin Home Run
What I love about Robin Alexander is her storylines are always simple that they keep my attention to the end. The relationships between all of the characters had me laughing so hard. I loved Shawnas mom and grandmother. I would definitely recommend this book.
What I love about Robin Alexander is her storylines are always simple that they keep my attention to the end. The relationships between all of the characters had me laughing so hard. I loved Shawnas mom and grandmother. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 14, 2017
I always love reading any books by Robin Alexander. Just love the humour - witty dialogues and some funny moments. You will not be disappointed with this book.
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