Kori recently journeyed back to Kimberly Lemming's Mead Mishaps world for a cozy winter romance. If you haven't yet, be sure to read her review of the first book! Otherwise, keep scrolling to see what she thought of the novella.
Genre: Adult Romantasy
Category: Candy Book
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Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Plot: 3/5 stars
Characters: 3.5/5 stars
World: 4/5
Pairing: Winterberry pie + winter spice latte OR cranberry aperol spritz
PLOT
Mistlefoe takes place roughly a month after the events of That Time I Got Drunk and Saved a Demon. But as it follows a different protagonist and fills in some gaps, you don't have to read book one before diving into this novella. And even though it has a holiday-inspired title, it's not a holiday book. You can read it anytime!
After Ruby's father trespasses on a fox demon's territory, the family's smithing business is cursed. Ruby braves the wilderness, hoping to appease the demon and convince him to lift the curse. But her offerings aren't enough—what he really needs is a fake mate for the week-long Winter Festival.
As the week passes, it gets harder and harder to figure out how much of their lovebird routine is an act. This 60-page novella is fast-paced, adorable, and SPICY. If you want a cute, easy read that you can devour in one sitting, this is a good choice.
CHARACTERS
While Ruby and her fake mate Lucca are adorable, the best character is Alexis the talking sword! She's the loud best friend every shy girl needs—unafraid to use her words when Ruby's too afraid to speak up. She verbally assaults bullies, spills all the tea, and tells Ruby what she needs to hear without sugarcoating. Plus she's just hilarious in general.
WORLD
Since this is a short novella, there isn't much world building going on. But it was cool to return to this world with fresh characters and a new perspective. Here you'll encounter cursed objects, enchanted trees, and fantastical creatures as you follow Ruby through a blacksmith shop, wintery forest, cozy cabin, and mountain palace.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Mistlefoe may be a short read, but it's highly entertaining. If you enjoyed any of Kimberly Lemmings' Mead Mishaps tales, are a fan of romantasy, fake dating, spice-as-plot, or want something to *ahem* warm up to this winter, then this novella is for you.
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