sofie_01 's review for:

Potion of Deception by Ann Sorstone

3.5

adventurous mysterious slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: N/A

Flaws of characters a main focus: N/A

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If you loved Once Upon a Broken Heart, Potion of Deception will absolutely charm you. It’s a fairytale wrapped in shadows, with a slow-burn romance, cursed masks, and a magical deal between a broody vampire and a potion-making wizardling.

Dante and Violett’s chemistry is addicting—his cocky teasing, her fiery comebacks—it’s the kind of tension you live for. The mystery around Dante’s mask adds emotional depth, and even though some questions remain unanswered, it leaves you wanting more.

That said, I did wish the worldbuilding went deeper. The magical system and gothic aesthetic had so much potential, but sometimes it focused too much on buildings and not enough on the magical creatures or deeper lore. Also, a few chapters dragged for me—it might’ve just been a mood thing, but the pacing didn’t always hit.

One thing that really bugged me? When the truth about Dante’s mask finally comes out, Violett—who’s been poking for answers the whole time—just… says nothing? No questions, no follow-up. That moment needed more emotional reaction, and I felt a little let down.

Still, I had a great time. It’s whimsical, witchy, and full of romantic angst. If you’re into gothic fairytales and masked heartbreakers, this one’s for you.