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4.11 AVERAGE
4.11 AVERAGE
I really wanted to read this. It seemed promising from the author's posts but I just can't. I find it unreadable as it. Not if I want to enjoy my free time reading.
We were warned this arc wasn't edited yet, but the grammar, spelling, punctuation, sentence structure (was this non organically translated for some other language to English?) and using words in expressions that don't make sense (ex just from before I dnfed cuz I can't be bothered to go back: "her forehead cracked" instead of wrinkled, "a confusion hovered over her", "Violette rushed her head in the direction he showed", etc), just make it hard to keep going.
There is also too much inner monologuing, unnecessary descriptions and too many adjectives, like:
“The place we are going to–” Violette started as one of the thorns caught her cloak, “So what exactly is it?” She continued removing the thorn.
What "continued"?? The thorn just appeared in your life.
Violette also is an annoying mc. She won't shut up, she meets Dante and is immediately like attributing all these different adjectives to him to the point they're assumptions (call down, Sherlock Holmes knockoff). Then, during their travel, she won't stop with the questions like he owes her anything. Like they don't have a mutually beneficial deal sealed with magic, like he's her old time friend who should spill all about his life 🙄
Example: “Maybe because you keep secrets from me. I thought we were partners and should share our plans.”
We were warned this arc wasn't edited yet, but the grammar, spelling, punctuation, sentence structure (was this non organically translated for some other language to English?) and using words in expressions that don't make sense (ex just from before I dnfed cuz I can't be bothered to go back: "her forehead cracked" instead of wrinkled, "a confusion hovered over her", "Violette rushed her head in the direction he showed", etc), just make it hard to keep going.
There is also too much inner monologuing, unnecessary descriptions and too many adjectives, like:
“The place we are going to–” Violette started as one of the thorns caught her cloak, “So what exactly is it?” She continued removing the thorn.
What "continued"?? The thorn just appeared in your life.
Violette also is an annoying mc. She won't shut up, she meets Dante and is immediately like attributing all these different adjectives to him to the point they're assumptions (call down, Sherlock Holmes knockoff). Then, during their travel, she won't stop with the questions like he owes her anything. Like they don't have a mutually beneficial deal sealed with magic, like he's her old time friend who should spill all about his life 🙄
Example: “Maybe because you keep secrets from me. I thought we were partners and should share our plans.”
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
dark
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
|ARC|
⋆ slowww burn
⋆ forced proximity
⋆ grumpy x sunshine
⋆ morally grey characters
⋆ intricate magic systems
⋆ gothic/whimsical fantasy
⋆ witch FMC x vampire MMC
______________
Wow. I need a second to process woooow! Potion of Deception is a YA slow burn romantasy where we follow our FMC Violette as she tries to find a cure for her fathers worsening illness and our MMC Dante as he tries to break a curse placed on him years ago. We watch as they create a deal that takes them on an adventure filled with twists, turns, lies and revelations. As they struggle on this journey they are forced to work together and soon a little deal struck between two individuals becomes a unique relationship.
Ugh I love a good fantasy with morally grey characters! I absolutely loved Violette and Dante together, the banter between these two were immaculate! I loved Violette and her character! Her strength to keep going after everything she learns throughout the journey. I was super inspire by her resilience and attitude towards everything!! Such an incredible character! Listen I’m quite obsessed with Dante. I was honestly giggling and kicking my feet. While we didn’t learn that much about him that mystery has hooked me and I can’t wait to learn more about his character! Ugh I can’t wait to see more of these two in the future!!
Okay the writing in this book was so good. I honestly am so obsessed. The vibes of this book was great and it’s been so long since I’ve read a fantasy like this!! The magic system was unique but also familiar which was super cool!! I loved seeing everything unfold but I think the fact we are still so in the dark about certain plot points is everything! I literally need the second book in my hand like now because THAT ENDING??? Excuse me girl back up and pause WHATTTT! Definitely can’t wait to read more from Ann in the future because if this is her debut wow I’m super excited!
Overall, I’m so obsessed with this book and can’t wait to read more of this series!! Thank you so much Ann Sorstone for the amazing ARC!! 💜🗡️
⋆ slowww burn
⋆ forced proximity
⋆ grumpy x sunshine
⋆ morally grey characters
⋆ intricate magic systems
⋆ gothic/whimsical fantasy
⋆ witch FMC x vampire MMC
______________
Wow. I need a second to process woooow! Potion of Deception is a YA slow burn romantasy where we follow our FMC Violette as she tries to find a cure for her fathers worsening illness and our MMC Dante as he tries to break a curse placed on him years ago. We watch as they create a deal that takes them on an adventure filled with twists, turns, lies and revelations. As they struggle on this journey they are forced to work together and soon a little deal struck between two individuals becomes a unique relationship.
Ugh I love a good fantasy with morally grey characters! I absolutely loved Violette and Dante together, the banter between these two were immaculate! I loved Violette and her character! Her strength to keep going after everything she learns throughout the journey. I was super inspire by her resilience and attitude towards everything!! Such an incredible character! Listen I’m quite obsessed with Dante. I was honestly giggling and kicking my feet. While we didn’t learn that much about him that mystery has hooked me and I can’t wait to learn more about his character! Ugh I can’t wait to see more of these two in the future!!
Okay the writing in this book was so good. I honestly am so obsessed. The vibes of this book was great and it’s been so long since I’ve read a fantasy like this!! The magic system was unique but also familiar which was super cool!! I loved seeing everything unfold but I think the fact we are still so in the dark about certain plot points is everything! I literally need the second book in my hand like now because THAT ENDING??? Excuse me girl back up and pause WHATTTT! Definitely can’t wait to read more from Ann in the future because if this is her debut wow I’m super excited!
Overall, I’m so obsessed with this book and can’t wait to read more of this series!! Thank you so much Ann Sorstone for the amazing ARC!! 💜🗡️
Interesting book that DESPERATELY needs a heavy edit ...
✨️ PLOT: 5/5
I loved reading about all of the difference potions, the lore behind them, the different areas they visited, and the magic system was really intriguing. I am always a sucker for any book that has witches. The witch/vampire combo is chef's kiss and I loved that his curse was his mouth being caged.
✒️ WRITING: 1/5
I am sorry because I know this was sent out as an ARC before editing was done but it really shows. Tons of word misuse, tense issues, and most of the scenes where they are talking back and forth to each other have at least a line or two that make 0 sense.
examples:
- "Wasn't they closed because a lot of people drowned using them?"
- "I'll just be talking unstoppable and make staying in the carriage impossible to you so you would want to jump out before we reach our destination."
- "How do you move this quite?" (Instead of quite, which isnt correct either because it should be quietly)
I almost could not finish the book because of this part.
❤️
✨️ PLOT: 5/5
I loved reading about all of the difference potions, the lore behind them, the different areas they visited, and the magic system was really intriguing. I am always a sucker for any book that has witches. The witch/vampire combo is chef's kiss and I loved that his curse was his mouth being caged.
✒️ WRITING: 1/5
I am sorry because I know this was sent out as an ARC before editing was done but it really shows. Tons of word misuse, tense issues, and most of the scenes where they are talking back and forth to each other have at least a line or two that make 0 sense.
examples:
- "Wasn't they closed because a lot of people drowned using them?"
- "I'll just be talking unstoppable and make staying in the carriage impossible to you so you would want to jump out before we reach our destination."
- "How do you move this quite?" (Instead of quite, which isnt correct either because it should be quietly)
I almost could not finish the book because of this part.
❤️
adventurous
emotional
funny
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
ARC review
Phew… where do I even start?
This book reminded me why I fell in love with vampire stories in the first place. It was one of my most anticipated reads, and it did not disappoint. I loved every moment — it genuinely felt like I was right there with them. 😤🩸
The banter between Violette and Dante?? I lived for every second.
Dante is exactly the kind of character that makes you want to duck his head in water and wait until the bubbles stop💀..... and somehow still want him after
Honestly, this book made me remember my long-lost love: Klaus Mikaelson
Honestly? This book would make an amazing movie.
But that ENDING??? 😭😭😭
I’m not okay.
Phew… where do I even start?
This book reminded me why I fell in love with vampire stories in the first place. It was one of my most anticipated reads, and it did not disappoint. I loved every moment — it genuinely felt like I was right there with them. 😤🩸
The banter between Violette and Dante?? I lived for every second.
Dante is exactly the kind of character that makes you want to duck his head in water and wait until the bubbles stop💀..... and somehow still want him after
Honestly, this book made me remember my long-lost love: Klaus Mikaelson
Honestly? This book would make an amazing movie.
But that ENDING??? 😭😭😭
I’m not okay.
This was received as an ARC - Thank you Ann Sorstone
Book: Portion of Deception
Genre: Romantasy
Rating: 5 ⭐
5/5Relationships
5/5 Characters
5/5 Plot
No Spice
Book: Portion of Deception
Genre: Romantasy
Rating: 5 ⭐
5/5Relationships
5/5 Characters
5/5 Plot
No Spice
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
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.
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Potion Of Deception by Ann Sorstone is a stunning witchy vampire fantasy that has a wonderful blend of visually detailed settings,and a very soft yet gothic aesthetic with Studio Ghibli's Kiki's Delivery Service vibes!💜🖤
The story follows the fmc Violette's journey to save a dear family member while also exploring a beautiful yet dangerous world that holds many secrets that will forever change her future.
The world building is very versatile,and matches the theme of the story perfectly. One minute there's a magical small town,and the next there's a hauntingly mysterious forest.
The magic system especially the different types of ranks are very intriguing. The unique idea for witchling vs witches is very clever. For example, the fmc Violette is a talented witchling potionist,but she never uses dark magic because she uses her magic to help others.
The romantic moments between Violette,and the mmc Dante a mysteriously attractive vampire man definitely has lots of banter. There's also lots of slow burn moments.
The plot twist at the end of the story is giving Beauty & the Beast vibes,and I am still in shock over what Dante did I was like hold on what!?😱 I was definitely not expecting that bittersweet moment at the end,and I hope that Violette's story will continue because I need book two please.😭
Add this beautiful story to your tbr if you love:
1.Witchy Studio Ghibli vibes world with a soft,and gothic aesthetic.
2. Soft fmc that is a talented potionist,and is not afraid to speak her mind.
3. Slow burn romance
4.Morally grey characters
5.Vampire mmc with a mask.
6. Unique magic system with witches,and vampires.
7.Ancient magical artifacts,and spells.
Thank you Mrs.Sorstone for the opportunity to read your stunning debut book. I loved reading Violette's story,and I am definitely going to read book two.💜🖤
The story follows the fmc Violette's journey to save a dear family member while also exploring a beautiful yet dangerous world that holds many secrets that will forever change her future.
The world building is very versatile,and matches the theme of the story perfectly. One minute there's a magical small town,and the next there's a hauntingly mysterious forest.
The magic system especially the different types of ranks are very intriguing. The unique idea for witchling vs witches is very clever. For example, the fmc Violette is a talented witchling potionist,but she never uses dark magic because she uses her magic to help others.
The romantic moments between Violette,and the mmc Dante a mysteriously attractive vampire man definitely has lots of banter. There's also lots of slow burn moments.
The plot twist at the end of the story is giving Beauty & the Beast vibes,and I am still in shock over what Dante did I was like hold on what!?😱 I was definitely not expecting that bittersweet moment at the end,and I hope that Violette's story will continue because I need book two please.😭
Add this beautiful story to your tbr if you love:
1.Witchy Studio Ghibli vibes world with a soft,and gothic aesthetic.
2. Soft fmc that is a talented potionist,and is not afraid to speak her mind.
3. Slow burn romance
4.Morally grey characters
5.Vampire mmc with a mask.
6. Unique magic system with witches,and vampires.
7.Ancient magical artifacts,and spells.
Thank you Mrs.Sorstone for the opportunity to read your stunning debut book. I loved reading Violette's story,and I am definitely going to read book two.💜🖤
Content Warnings
Moderate: Blood, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Grief, Death of parent
adventurous
dark
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
If Jacks and Chaos from Once Upon a Broken Heart had a dangerously charming lovechild, it would be the irresistible, morally grey lead of Potions and Deceptions. This book absolutely slays with its gothic atmosphere and enchanting fairytale world, offering a fresh, seductive take on vampires that feels both haunting and original.
One of my favorite things is the razor-sharp banter and the perfectly agonizing slow burn. The chemistry practically crackles off the page. Just look at this moment:
“Don’t tell me all of it just to drown me.”
“Hm,” he drew thoughtfully, “As much as this idea sounds tempting, I still need you. But remind me about it later for sure.”
Tell me that’s not peak flirtation laced with danger!
The author masterfully blends dark magic, forbidden potions, and crumbling gothic castles with a storyline full of secrets and betrayal. The slow-burn romance had me hanging on every almost-touch and lingering glance.
If you love a brooding, dangerous hero, a headstrong heroine, and a romance that makes you suffer in the best way possible, this book is a must-read. Highly recommended for fans of gothic fantasy, dark fairytales, and that delicious slow descent into chaos and desire.