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King and Coven #1
To Hunt a Demon King
Little Red Riding Hood meets spicy romantasy in this witchy retelling of a classic fairy tale.
Elara has only one goal in her life: to convince her mother to treat her like the fully grown witch she is and let her attend a Coven meeting. But on her twenty-fifth birthday, Elara discovers that her mother had good reasons for keeping her away from the Coven and her grandmother, its unfeeling Crone.
Now forced to run for her life to hide a magic she shouldn’t possess, Elara is told to find the wicked Demon King and claim his protection. But when she runs into a handsome hunter and his wolf in the forest, her journey takes on a dimension she never expected.
Tropes include:
Reluctant allies to lovers
Only one bed
Only one horse
Forced proximity
Mistaken identities
Elara has only one goal in her life: to convince her mother to treat her like the fully grown witch she is and let her attend a Coven meeting. But on her twenty-fifth birthday, Elara discovers that her mother had good reasons for keeping her away from the Coven and her grandmother, its unfeeling Crone.
Now forced to run for her life to hide a magic she shouldn’t possess, Elara is told to find the wicked Demon King and claim his protection. But when she runs into a handsome hunter and his wolf in the forest, her journey takes on a dimension she never expected.
Tropes include:
Reluctant allies to lovers
Only one bed
Only one horse
Forced proximity
Mistaken identities
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2023
527 people are currently reading
9099 people want to read
About the author
Madeleine Eliot
18 books525 followersMadeleine Eliot loves to read and write spicy romantasy with all of the best tropes. Dubbed the “Queen of Cozy” by her readers, Madeleine enjoys writing romantasy that is all vibes and spice, with a dash of adventure and world-building. She is always working on her next book, which is probably another spicy romantasy. Follow her adventures and latest works at instagram.com/madeleineeliotwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 435 reviews
July 23, 2023
4 Interesting Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 2.5🌶️/5
I think that Madeleine Eliot has outdone herself with this book! I have previously described one of her books as fluffy, but you know what I realized??? I actually love Fluffy, and the tropes in here are every single thing that gives me butterflies and makes me excited and giggle. I basically could not put this book down!
The story follows Elara who we meet a few days shy of her 25th birthday. YAY to having an FMC that's not 19!!!! ANYWAY - there are two things that Elara would love! One, learn how to make an unburnt pie, and two - go to the monthly Coven Meeting that only "Fully Grown 25-Years and older" witches are allowed to attend. One day she sneaks into a meeting and sees The Crone of the Coven (HER OWN FLIPPING GRANDMOTHER) murder a witch for consorting with demons. Lucky for Elara it is revealed that she has something even worse than consorting with demons... She has demon magic!!! Elara flees for her life at her mother's instruction and is thrust on a mission to find the Demon King and invoke the protection of the "Horned God." Soon she crosses paths with a very sexy-looking Hunter with an "owl bat" and "wolfdog" as companions. He reluctantly agrees to help Elara for a very specific payment - a stone which just happens to hang from the chain around Elara's neck.
The tropes in this include:
▶ Reluctant allies to Lovers
▶ Little Red Riding Hood retelling
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ One Bed
▶ ONLY ONE CLOAK
▶ Deal with the Devil
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Only one horse
A lot of the book is "The Journey" as Elara and Hunt travel to the demon lands, and since a journey trope is something I really enjoy, I loved this! There was bickering, banter and feisty conversations that just made me chuckle. It was perfect how they rile each other up and press each other's buttons. There was also fast-paced action and cute, wholesome moments. The Strix (owl bat) and snuggly wolf were just amazing side characters with their unique and adorable personalities!
The relationship between Elara and Hunt was done really well. I think the way the tension was woven into the story and how that tension developed into sexual tension as the two started developing feelings for each other was believable and magic. It didn't seem too quick or rushed. I completely bought the whole "two reluctant people working together in a forced proximity situation" and somehow they ended up falling into bed together!
The one thing that kept this from being 5 stars is I wanted the internal speculation, logic and reasoning of Elara's actions explained a little more. The main aspect that stood out (and explains this best) is this book is a First Person Narrative story, so we are in the head of the FMC. When there is a plot twist, I feel this should be a twist only for the characters involved and not so much for the reader. We are in the FMC's head, hearing all her thoughts and feelings. If I am reading about how attractive an MMC is in passing; I would believe I would also read about any speculations or theories she has before acting on them.
Other than that, I think this is a delightful book with great witchy vibes in an alluring world. I also cannot wait to get my hands on Book 2 with all the seeds planted for what is to come! My mind is rife with speculation about what will happen in the rest of the books.
I received this eARC in exchange for a review!
All thoughts and feelings are my own
Spicy Level: 2.5🌶️/5
I think that Madeleine Eliot has outdone herself with this book! I have previously described one of her books as fluffy, but you know what I realized??? I actually love Fluffy, and the tropes in here are every single thing that gives me butterflies and makes me excited and giggle. I basically could not put this book down!
The story follows Elara who we meet a few days shy of her 25th birthday. YAY to having an FMC that's not 19!!!! ANYWAY - there are two things that Elara would love! One, learn how to make an unburnt pie, and two - go to the monthly Coven Meeting that only "Fully Grown 25-Years and older" witches are allowed to attend. One day she sneaks into a meeting and sees The Crone of the Coven (HER OWN FLIPPING GRANDMOTHER) murder a witch for consorting with demons. Lucky for Elara it is revealed that she has something even worse than consorting with demons... She has demon magic!!! Elara flees for her life at her mother's instruction and is thrust on a mission to find the Demon King and invoke the protection of the "Horned God." Soon she crosses paths with a very sexy-looking Hunter with an "owl bat" and "wolfdog" as companions. He reluctantly agrees to help Elara for a very specific payment - a stone which just happens to hang from the chain around Elara's neck.
The tropes in this include:
▶ Reluctant allies to Lovers
▶ Little Red Riding Hood retelling
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ One Bed
▶ ONLY ONE CLOAK
▶ Deal with the Devil
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Only one horse
A lot of the book is "The Journey" as Elara and Hunt travel to the demon lands, and since a journey trope is something I really enjoy, I loved this! There was bickering, banter and feisty conversations that just made me chuckle. It was perfect how they rile each other up and press each other's buttons. There was also fast-paced action and cute, wholesome moments. The Strix (owl bat) and snuggly wolf were just amazing side characters with their unique and adorable personalities!
The relationship between Elara and Hunt was done really well. I think the way the tension was woven into the story and how that tension developed into sexual tension as the two started developing feelings for each other was believable and magic. It didn't seem too quick or rushed. I completely bought the whole "two reluctant people working together in a forced proximity situation" and somehow they ended up falling into bed together!
The one thing that kept this from being 5 stars is I wanted the internal speculation, logic and reasoning of Elara's actions explained a little more. The main aspect that stood out (and explains this best) is this book is a First Person Narrative story, so we are in the head of the FMC. When there is a plot twist, I feel this should be a twist only for the characters involved and not so much for the reader. We are in the FMC's head, hearing all her thoughts and feelings. If I am reading about how attractive an MMC is in passing; I would believe I would also read about any speculations or theories she has before acting on them.
Other than that, I think this is a delightful book with great witchy vibes in an alluring world. I also cannot wait to get my hands on Book 2 with all the seeds planted for what is to come! My mind is rife with speculation about what will happen in the rest of the books.
I received this eARC in exchange for a review!
All thoughts and feelings are my own
June 25, 2023
Little Red Riding Hood retelling!? Nah! Only the red color of the cloak is a reminder of that tale; other than that, there's nothing similar. AND I'm very glad that this book offers more than I thought; most importantly, it has my favorite "Kingdom of the Wicked" vibe. Which means I devoured everything about it, despite some flaws. Frankly, I've been looking for this kind of similar plot for a long time since finishing Kerri Maniscalco's book series, and I finally found something close.
The storyline, though somewhat predictable, but had a captivating twist towards the conclusion that caught my full attention. The profound feelings unveiled by the Demon King's POV and the hints about their past and implications for the future are undeniably intriguing, and the narrative raises compelling questions that promise to intensify the excitement to new heights!
This first book of the series left me eagerly anticipating the arrival of the second book.
The storyline, though somewhat predictable, but had a captivating twist towards the conclusion that caught my full attention. The profound feelings unveiled by the Demon King's POV and the hints about their past and implications for the future are undeniably intriguing, and the narrative raises compelling questions that promise to intensify the excitement to new heights!
This first book of the series left me eagerly anticipating the arrival of the second book.
Want to read
June 24, 2023putting this in the retry again folder but only because i'm drowning in arcs with a tight deadline atm, and i hate having more than 3 currently readings on active, so one had to go and it was this one.
will definitely get back to it once the arc madness has sorted itself out.
will definitely get back to it once the arc madness has sorted itself out.
September 3, 2023
She was abit…how do I say this nicely? Fucking stupid?
November 20, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
To Hunt a Demon King was an interesting first in series diving into a fantasy world that's divided between witches and demons, with regular humans also in the mix. I liked that there was a map at the front of the book and the world building that was present was intriguing, although the book is single POV and was limited by the knowledge of the narrator (the h). There's a cozy feel to the writing that I enjoyed, but the writing also felt like it lacked depth at times. Some of the characterizations and developments were weaker imo and the plot was predictable. At the same time, I flew through this one and enjoyed myself, so even though it's not perfect, it worked for me. I see a lot of potential for the h's growth, which is a focal point of a series that pulls me in every time. The romance is also on the sweeter side, despite some initial complications, and I love a devoted male, which the H is clearly going to be in this series.
Elara (h) is a young witch whose mother keeps her away from the larger Coven, partially because Elara's grandmother is the head and she's dreadful. Elara's mother is also clearly hiding things from her, although she plans to open up more on Elara's 25th birthday. Which comes and reveals frightening magic to Elara, causing her mother to send her on the run for her own safety into the woods that separate the witch lands from the demon lands. Elara is tasked with finding the Demon King to invoke protection from him. She quickly meets a man in the woods who she identifies as a huntsman. He calls her "Red" and she calls him "Hunt" (this has some Red Riding Hood retelling elements) and he agrees to take her where she needs to go in exchange for a necklace. Hunt also has two animal partners, a wolf and an owl/bat creature, who are both adorable. The wolf esp is a star of this book honestly. Most of the book is their journey to the Demon King with Elara's truths slowly being unraveled, eye opening truths revealed about demons, and lots of simmering tension. Written in first person, single POV of the h's until the last chapter, which is the H's. No ow/om drama, h is a virgin (never even be kissed), and H is not a virgin (he says that he's not as experienced as people think and that it has been years and years since he was with anyone; there is a brief mention of his first couple times that I didn't feel were necessary but they're like two sentences).
Hunt and Elara have some fun banter for the majority of the story. Sometimes it veers into somewhat annoying territory in terms of him smirking too much and her acting a bit immature. Lots of secret keeping throughout the book, on both sides, and each of them trying to poke at the other to share what they're withholding. They play some truth for a truth games and a couple times there are additional truth loosening interventions that occur. Despite all the secret keeping (which I'm not usually a fan of), I thought the traveling aspect of their forced proximity was a strong part of their development. They face a couple of threats to their safety and Elara is also forced to face her magic at times. The romantic interest comes pretty easily, though it takes a while for them to admit and act on the attraction. Even when they do, bedroom activities wait a little longer still, which I appreciated. I really liked how Hunt shared his true name (Carnon) as the romance was heating up and how he approached consent and wanting to make it all special for Elara. Even though she had never been attracted to anyone prior to him, she does embrace their physical intimacy readily and the book has a few explicit scenes.
As they approach the meeting with the Demon King, it becomes more clear that Carnon is withholding important info. Elara gets to meet a couple of his friends and learn more about how witches have faulty information about demons, also making a new friend. She isn't able to forget about what could be happening with her mother though or the potential threat of her grandmother. What's happening in the witch lands becomes more of a concern around the same time that truths come to light in a big way. There's a major conflict between Elara and Carnon at the end of the book. Elara pushing for information and confronting him was excellent. The reveal itself wasn't a surprise, but it did make me wonder how the two will move forward in book 2, esp with additional aspects of Elara being in the demon lands remain to be unveiled. Carnon did start laying truths on her once the big reveal took place, but is still holding back more (although at least one thing he's holding back still is pretty obvious). The last chapter from his POV shows his love and determination, which of course I liked. I'm going to continue on to the next book and hopefully there's strong growth with the characters and more open dialogue.
To Hunt a Demon King was an interesting first in series diving into a fantasy world that's divided between witches and demons, with regular humans also in the mix. I liked that there was a map at the front of the book and the world building that was present was intriguing, although the book is single POV and was limited by the knowledge of the narrator (the h). There's a cozy feel to the writing that I enjoyed, but the writing also felt like it lacked depth at times. Some of the characterizations and developments were weaker imo and the plot was predictable. At the same time, I flew through this one and enjoyed myself, so even though it's not perfect, it worked for me. I see a lot of potential for the h's growth, which is a focal point of a series that pulls me in every time. The romance is also on the sweeter side, despite some initial complications, and I love a devoted male, which the H is clearly going to be in this series.
Elara (h) is a young witch whose mother keeps her away from the larger Coven, partially because Elara's grandmother is the head and she's dreadful. Elara's mother is also clearly hiding things from her, although she plans to open up more on Elara's 25th birthday. Which comes and reveals frightening magic to Elara, causing her mother to send her on the run for her own safety into the woods that separate the witch lands from the demon lands. Elara is tasked with finding the Demon King to invoke protection from him. She quickly meets a man in the woods who she identifies as a huntsman. He calls her "Red" and she calls him "Hunt" (this has some Red Riding Hood retelling elements) and he agrees to take her where she needs to go in exchange for a necklace. Hunt also has two animal partners, a wolf and an owl/bat creature, who are both adorable. The wolf esp is a star of this book honestly. Most of the book is their journey to the Demon King with Elara's truths slowly being unraveled, eye opening truths revealed about demons, and lots of simmering tension. Written in first person, single POV of the h's until the last chapter, which is the H's. No ow/om drama, h is a virgin (never even be kissed), and H is not a virgin (he says that he's not as experienced as people think and that it has been years and years since he was with anyone; there is a brief mention of his first couple times that I didn't feel were necessary but they're like two sentences).
Hunt and Elara have some fun banter for the majority of the story. Sometimes it veers into somewhat annoying territory in terms of him smirking too much and her acting a bit immature. Lots of secret keeping throughout the book, on both sides, and each of them trying to poke at the other to share what they're withholding. They play some truth for a truth games and a couple times there are additional truth loosening interventions that occur. Despite all the secret keeping (which I'm not usually a fan of), I thought the traveling aspect of their forced proximity was a strong part of their development. They face a couple of threats to their safety and Elara is also forced to face her magic at times. The romantic interest comes pretty easily, though it takes a while for them to admit and act on the attraction. Even when they do, bedroom activities wait a little longer still, which I appreciated. I really liked how Hunt shared his true name (Carnon) as the romance was heating up and how he approached consent and wanting to make it all special for Elara. Even though she had never been attracted to anyone prior to him, she does embrace their physical intimacy readily and the book has a few explicit scenes.
As they approach the meeting with the Demon King, it becomes more clear that Carnon is withholding important info. Elara gets to meet a couple of his friends and learn more about how witches have faulty information about demons, also making a new friend. She isn't able to forget about what could be happening with her mother though or the potential threat of her grandmother. What's happening in the witch lands becomes more of a concern around the same time that truths come to light in a big way. There's a major conflict between Elara and Carnon at the end of the book. Elara pushing for information and confronting him was excellent. The reveal itself wasn't a surprise, but it did make me wonder how the two will move forward in book 2, esp with additional aspects of Elara being in the demon lands remain to be unveiled. Carnon did start laying truths on her once the big reveal took place, but is still holding back more (although at least one thing he's holding back still is pretty obvious). The last chapter from his POV shows his love and determination, which of course I liked. I'm going to continue on to the next book and hopefully there's strong growth with the characters and more open dialogue.
July 11, 2023
Just mediocre at best frustrating at worst! Elara is an absolute nightmare of an FMC she has 0 logic and she’s supposed to be 25 but acts like a child! Hunt/Carnon was a good MMC but he wasn’t special. I feel like their romance was too fast and the betrayal was not that that deep, ya know! Like he lied the same way she lied the entire time, oooh surprise! If she used the slightest bit of problem solving skills she could have figured everything out! The stakes were supposed to seem high but they weren’t. Also I hate the naive virgin trope it’s a little icky to me. I think especially in combination with her immaturity it was uncomfortable! Will I read the next one maybe…
October 31, 2023
You know when you enjoy something so much, that you're willing to ignore all the bad things about it? Well, this was so much fun and I loved the hell out of it, in spite of repetitions of phrases and words that would usually drive me insane (he smirks in the book about 500 times. I'm not kidding. Maybe even 600). But whatevz. I loved it anyway.
May 24, 2023
Unfortunately, this book wasn't what I expected...
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Adult
∘ Fantasy Romance
∘ Mythical Creatures
∘ Witches & Demons
∘ Secrets & Betrayals
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Reluctant Allies to Lovers
∘ Forced Proximity
∘ Only One Bed
∘ Hidden Identities
⤏ Summary
Elara is a witch who's been sheltered by her mother because of her heritage. However, when her power manifest, she realizes that her mother's decision to keep her away from the Coven was justified.
Now hunted by her own people, she embarks on a journey to find the Demon King, whom her mother believes can help her.
⤏ Plot
After Elara embarked on her journey, she quickly stumbles upon a mysterious man in the Bloodwood, the forest where no mortal or witch dares to venture. I must admit that I was intrigued from the start, but unfortunately, this feeling didn't last long.
The plot seemed to move slower than I would've preferred and I wanted to DNF the book after a few chapters, but I continued in hopes that it would manage to ensnare me at some point. Alas, that didn't happen and I can't help but feel disappointed by the whole experience.
⤏ Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding was one of the highlights of this book. Detailed scenery, the magic system well explained. Overall, it was well written.
⤏ Characters
∘ Elara
I might sound a little harsh, but she truly was a foolish character, and it surprises me that the wolves didn't eat her. She was also being really rude with her mother and the man she met in the woods, which was quite uncalled for.
When the truth was staring her right in the face, she didn't even realize it. Or apparently, she did, but the author deemed it unnecessary to tell us this until the very end ― which I found frustrating.
• Imagine this: throughout the entire book, she's acting like her head's in the clouds, not questioning anything, asking a hundred irrelevant questions, only to suddenly act all-knowing at the end.
She's portrayed as this skilled and powerful witch, yet she isn't willing to explore her newfound abilities and is lost without the supplies from her mother. Furthermore, she keeps lying through her teeth, despite knowing that by withholding such information, she's putting people at risk.
You can feel a little frustration in this text already? That's because I am frustrated.
∘ Hunt
The man's a walking mystery. He shows up out of nowhere, after his animal companions lure the woman in the woods ― pretty suspicious already, right? He refuses to answer any question the girl has at the beginning, but he demands answers in return. He keeps lying to her and evading any inquiries about himself.
On second thought, they deserve each other.
My alarm was blaring and Elara's remained silent, but he is the reason I continued reading, despite having my suspicions about his true nature.
⤏ Romance
The romance wasn't an unexpected development, but I had a hundred scenarios in my head, and none of them came close to what actually happened.
As I said, the two of them deserve each other and I couldn't help but find it amusing that Elara felt hurt upon discovering he lied to her, when she had been doing the same thing.
⤏ Conclusion
This book wasn't my cup of tea, but if you're looking for a books with witches, demons, curses and a little spice, it might be a good one for you.
If you don't mind your heroines being a little naive, even better.
✦ For more bookish content, you can follow me on Instagram: @asternyx ✦
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Adult
∘ Fantasy Romance
∘ Mythical Creatures
∘ Witches & Demons
∘ Secrets & Betrayals
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Reluctant Allies to Lovers
∘ Forced Proximity
∘ Only One Bed
∘ Hidden Identities
⤏ Summary
Elara is a witch who's been sheltered by her mother because of her heritage. However, when her power manifest, she realizes that her mother's decision to keep her away from the Coven was justified.
Now hunted by her own people, she embarks on a journey to find the Demon King, whom her mother believes can help her.
⤏ Plot
After Elara embarked on her journey, she quickly stumbles upon a mysterious man in the Bloodwood, the forest where no mortal or witch dares to venture. I must admit that I was intrigued from the start, but unfortunately, this feeling didn't last long.
The plot seemed to move slower than I would've preferred and I wanted to DNF the book after a few chapters, but I continued in hopes that it would manage to ensnare me at some point. Alas, that didn't happen and I can't help but feel disappointed by the whole experience.
⤏ Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding was one of the highlights of this book. Detailed scenery, the magic system well explained. Overall, it was well written.
⤏ Characters
∘ Elara
I might sound a little harsh, but she truly was a foolish character, and it surprises me that the wolves didn't eat her. She was also being really rude with her mother and the man she met in the woods, which was quite uncalled for.
When the truth was staring her right in the face, she didn't even realize it. Or apparently, she did, but the author deemed it unnecessary to tell us this until the very end ― which I found frustrating.
• Imagine this: throughout the entire book, she's acting like her head's in the clouds, not questioning anything, asking a hundred irrelevant questions, only to suddenly act all-knowing at the end.
She's portrayed as this skilled and powerful witch, yet she isn't willing to explore her newfound abilities and is lost without the supplies from her mother. Furthermore, she keeps lying through her teeth, despite knowing that by withholding such information, she's putting people at risk.
You can feel a little frustration in this text already? That's because I am frustrated.
∘ Hunt
The man's a walking mystery. He shows up out of nowhere, after his animal companions lure the woman in the woods ― pretty suspicious already, right? He refuses to answer any question the girl has at the beginning, but he demands answers in return. He keeps lying to her and evading any inquiries about himself.
On second thought, they deserve each other.
My alarm was blaring and Elara's remained silent, but he is the reason I continued reading, despite having my suspicions about his true nature.
⤏ Romance
The romance wasn't an unexpected development, but I had a hundred scenarios in my head, and none of them came close to what actually happened.
As I said, the two of them deserve each other and I couldn't help but find it amusing that Elara felt hurt upon discovering he lied to her, when she had been doing the same thing.
⤏ Conclusion
This book wasn't my cup of tea, but if you're looking for a books with witches, demons, curses and a little spice, it might be a good one for you.
If you don't mind your heroines being a little naive, even better.
✦ For more bookish content, you can follow me on Instagram: @asternyx ✦
May 7, 2023
What a fun take on the Little Red Riding Hood story! I loved this fun retelling, with its witty banter, swoon-worthy romance, and relatively low-stakes plot. The queen of cozy fantasy strikes again!
Elara is a young witch who has been sheltered by her overprotective mother. When she unexpectedly develops some very strange powers, her mother becomes extremely worried that her powerful grandmother, the Crone of their coven, will threaten her. Her mother sends Elara away on a journey to seek the protection of the Demon King with little more than a basket and the red cloak on her back. While walking through the woods to find him, Elara meets a huntsman (who she calls Hunt) and his mysterious animal companions, a wolf and a strix. She gets Hunt to agree to lead her to the Demon King for a price, but she comes to find out that her alliance gets her MUCH more than she bargained for in the end.
While this story started out a little slow and somewhat predictable, I ended up HOOKED by the end. Elara is kind of a typical young, naïve fantasy FMC, and incessant questions got tedious after a while. However, I'm so intrigued by her power and what it means for her going forward. She is REALLY powerful, and I think that adds an interesting dynamic to the story. I was SUPER into mysterious Hunt. Though I guessed what he was pretty much from the beginning, he's so endearingly patient with and protective of Elara. And the spice - whoa boy. It is HOT.
Y'all this story ends right when things start getting CRAZY, and I am so intrigued. Multiple big reveals, Elara shows her tough side, Hunt somehow gets hotter - it was absolutely nuts. This new series is going to be FIRE, and I can't wait!
Elara is a young witch who has been sheltered by her overprotective mother. When she unexpectedly develops some very strange powers, her mother becomes extremely worried that her powerful grandmother, the Crone of their coven, will threaten her. Her mother sends Elara away on a journey to seek the protection of the Demon King with little more than a basket and the red cloak on her back. While walking through the woods to find him, Elara meets a huntsman (who she calls Hunt) and his mysterious animal companions, a wolf and a strix. She gets Hunt to agree to lead her to the Demon King for a price, but she comes to find out that her alliance gets her MUCH more than she bargained for in the end.
While this story started out a little slow and somewhat predictable, I ended up HOOKED by the end. Elara is kind of a typical young, naïve fantasy FMC, and incessant questions got tedious after a while. However, I'm so intrigued by her power and what it means for her going forward. She is REALLY powerful, and I think that adds an interesting dynamic to the story. I was SUPER into mysterious Hunt. Though I guessed what he was pretty much from the beginning, he's so endearingly patient with and protective of Elara. And the spice - whoa boy. It is HOT.
Y'all this story ends right when things start getting CRAZY, and I am so intrigued. Multiple big reveals, Elara shows her tough side, Hunt somehow gets hotter - it was absolutely nuts. This new series is going to be FIRE, and I can't wait!
August 24, 2023
This was actually really fun! A witch on the run and a mysterious hunter with animal companions fleeing to the demon's realm. Yes please! This is a quick, spicy fantasy romance with a little red riding hood twist.
September 17, 2023
So this is the perfect example of " Don't judge a book by its cover." The cover is gorgeous, but the story fell short for me.
2⭐️
2 🌶
Tropes:
Reluctant allies
Demons and Witches
Forced Proximity
One Bed/One Horse
Fake identities
Betrayal
I really loved the concept of this story, and that's about it. There are so many 5 star reviews, I wonder if I've become too picky, the more outstanding romantasy that I read.
My issues:
1. FMC is annoying as fuck
2. Way too much telling and not enough showing. This is a huge pet peeve of mine in fantasy, especially where there is a brand new world being explained.
3. Unnecessary descriptions, such as explaining that they must be in an inn or B&B because there are multiple doors on the hallways. And right before having paid someone for lodging. This may sound petty, but it happened a lot!
4. The smut didn't make the poor writing, flat characters, or boring romantic banter worth it. She's a virgin, which is fine, but decides to have sex with this stranger after a few days, saying she hates him over and over, and having never found another male appealing in 25 years. Let's move past that. She then criticizes her boobs as they're getting naked, and he replies they're his new best friends. Eeeewwwww!
- for the record, it is totally fine if she has insecurities, but the way it is presented is my issue
5. The on/off all the time up until the sex. I don't mind slow burn, sexy, tension filled banter, but this was childish. "Hunt" says the word interesting like 50 times as a way to describe her.
I almost DNF'd but had to know if it got better. It didn't. The ending had a moment where I wondered if it'll improve in book 2, but I'm not sure it's worth another 300 pages of my time to find out.
I really hate leaving a bad review. I generally am so impressed with any author who takes a story from their brain, puts it on paper, and publishes it. I know many authors get better over time, so I'm willing to try something else of hers in the future but can't recommend this book to anyone I know.
2⭐️
2 🌶
Tropes:
Reluctant allies
Demons and Witches
Forced Proximity
One Bed/One Horse
Fake identities
Betrayal
I really loved the concept of this story, and that's about it. There are so many 5 star reviews, I wonder if I've become too picky, the more outstanding romantasy that I read.
My issues:
1. FMC is annoying as fuck
2. Way too much telling and not enough showing. This is a huge pet peeve of mine in fantasy, especially where there is a brand new world being explained.
3. Unnecessary descriptions, such as explaining that they must be in an inn or B&B because there are multiple doors on the hallways. And right before having paid someone for lodging. This may sound petty, but it happened a lot!
4. The smut didn't make the poor writing, flat characters, or boring romantic banter worth it. She's a virgin, which is fine, but decides to have sex with this stranger after a few days, saying she hates him over and over, and having never found another male appealing in 25 years. Let's move past that. She then criticizes her boobs as they're getting naked, and he replies they're his new best friends. Eeeewwwww!
- for the record, it is totally fine if she has insecurities, but the way it is presented is my issue
5. The on/off all the time up until the sex. I don't mind slow burn, sexy, tension filled banter, but this was childish. "Hunt" says the word interesting like 50 times as a way to describe her.
I almost DNF'd but had to know if it got better. It didn't. The ending had a moment where I wondered if it'll improve in book 2, but I'm not sure it's worth another 300 pages of my time to find out.
I really hate leaving a bad review. I generally am so impressed with any author who takes a story from their brain, puts it on paper, and publishes it. I know many authors get better over time, so I'm willing to try something else of hers in the future but can't recommend this book to anyone I know.
November 24, 2024
Hon na krále démonů jsem rozečetla ve správný čas a věřím, že i chvíle, kdy se ke mně tato romantasy dostala, se odráží v mém hodnocení. Já totiž přesně takovou knihu už nutně potřebovala a bylo jedno, jak moc je klišoidní.
Jedná se o první díl série, který je zároveň i retelling na velmi známou pohádku (z obálky ji jistě poznáte), a i když na příběhu opravdu nebylo nic originálního, já se nedokázala odtrhnout.
Elaře hrozí nebezpečí a uteče do lesa, kde narazí na vlka. Ten ji kupodivu nesežere, ale záhy se objeví jeho pán. A tak se s tajemným Lovcem vydává na cestu ke králi démonů, který ji jako jediný může pomoct.
Při čtení mě občas napadlo, že bych uvítala vyprávění i z mužského protějšku, ale i tak jsem se moc bavila.
Děkuji nakladatelství @mystery.press za knihu. #spoluprace
Jedná se o první díl série, který je zároveň i retelling na velmi známou pohádku (z obálky ji jistě poznáte), a i když na příběhu opravdu nebylo nic originálního, já se nedokázala odtrhnout.
Elaře hrozí nebezpečí a uteče do lesa, kde narazí na vlka. Ten ji kupodivu nesežere, ale záhy se objeví jeho pán. A tak se s tajemným Lovcem vydává na cestu ke králi démonů, který ji jako jediný může pomoct.
Při čtení mě občas napadlo, že bych uvítala vyprávění i z mužského protějšku, ale i tak jsem se moc bavila.
Děkuji nakladatelství @mystery.press za knihu. #spoluprace
May 30, 2023
"’Gods,’ he rasped again, placing his hands on my hips and running his thumbs over the edges of the garment.
“He was still on his knees before me, and the look on his face was that of a pilgrim finally arrived to worship at the feet of a saint.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I recently finished To Hunt A Demon King by Madeleine Eliot, and wow, I’m obsessed!
This steamy Red Riding Hood retelling has so many of my favorites! Witches, demons, reluctant allies to lovers, forced proximity, delicious banter, and all the slow burn that I absolutely love in a fantasy romance.
The plot, magic systems, and mysteries surrounding our main female character, the crone, coven, and demon cursed woods captivated my interest immediately. The world building throughout the story was detailed yet easily digestible and the taunting tension that builds between the love interests was perfection. This steamy, cozy, and fun read with witchy vibes checked all the boxes for me.
To Hunt A Demon King is the first book in the King and Coven series, and I look forward to continuing on with Elara and Hunt’s story. I recommend this story to those who enjoy romance, fantasy, and fantasy romance.
“He was still on his knees before me, and the look on his face was that of a pilgrim finally arrived to worship at the feet of a saint.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I recently finished To Hunt A Demon King by Madeleine Eliot, and wow, I’m obsessed!
This steamy Red Riding Hood retelling has so many of my favorites! Witches, demons, reluctant allies to lovers, forced proximity, delicious banter, and all the slow burn that I absolutely love in a fantasy romance.
The plot, magic systems, and mysteries surrounding our main female character, the crone, coven, and demon cursed woods captivated my interest immediately. The world building throughout the story was detailed yet easily digestible and the taunting tension that builds between the love interests was perfection. This steamy, cozy, and fun read with witchy vibes checked all the boxes for me.
To Hunt A Demon King is the first book in the King and Coven series, and I look forward to continuing on with Elara and Hunt’s story. I recommend this story to those who enjoy romance, fantasy, and fantasy romance.
July 8, 2023
Wow this Romantasy was everything I needed.
From Blood and Ash meets Kingdom of the Wicked with a splash of the little red riding hood, add to this demons and witches and it creates a wonderful recipe for an amazing book.
I devoured this book in 2 days ! Elara and Hunt (Carnon)'s banter was so good. I loved their interactions and how they grew from strangers to lovers. The tension and the spice was perfect.
Elara is amazing. She's vulnerable, a little bit naive at first, because she was sheltered but so authentic, strong and brave. I really liked her.
" "Because I make you so angry ?" I pressed, leaning into him a little.
"Because you make me want things I shouldn't be wanting, Red ", he growled sending a shiver up my spine."
And Carnon was absolutely irresistible. He's the perfect morally grey character. He's possessive, dominant, protector but also so sweet with her.
Special mention to Akela, the Wolf, who absolutely made my heart swelled with love.
I can't wait to read the second book in this series. If you haven't read this yet, add this to your TBR immediately.
From Blood and Ash meets Kingdom of the Wicked with a splash of the little red riding hood, add to this demons and witches and it creates a wonderful recipe for an amazing book.
I devoured this book in 2 days ! Elara and Hunt (Carnon)'s banter was so good. I loved their interactions and how they grew from strangers to lovers. The tension and the spice was perfect.
Elara is amazing. She's vulnerable, a little bit naive at first, because she was sheltered but so authentic, strong and brave. I really liked her.
" "Because I make you so angry ?" I pressed, leaning into him a little.
"Because you make me want things I shouldn't be wanting, Red ", he growled sending a shiver up my spine."
And Carnon was absolutely irresistible. He's the perfect morally grey character. He's possessive, dominant, protector but also so sweet with her.
Special mention to Akela, the Wolf, who absolutely made my heart swelled with love.
I can't wait to read the second book in this series. If you haven't read this yet, add this to your TBR immediately.
October 11, 2024
4,5/5⭐️
Milujem rozprávky a ešte viac milujem ich dnešné knižné retellingy, takže táto novinka inšpirovaná Červenou čiapočkou bola must-read.
Čarodejnica Elara nečakane musí utiecť zo svojej krajiny pohľadať kráľa démonov aby ju ochránil. V lese však stretne Lovca …
Príbeh je od začiatku veľmi zaujímavý, svet výborne vymyslený a postavy sú skvelé.
Keďže utekáme pred ostatnými čarodejnicami máme možnosť bližšie spoznať krajinu za “hranicou”, ktorá je plná nástrah a neznámych stvorení. Do toho nepopierateľná chémia medzi postavami a vy zhltnete knihu, podobne ako ja, za pár hodín.
Lovec sa autorke ako mužská postava vydaril. Má v sebe tú charizmu, ktorú čitateľky milujú a tak si určite získa aj vás. Do toho je obklopenými mnohými tajomstvami, ktoré ma až znervózňovali! A tie jeho malé vyznania … ach! 🫶🏻
Elara je tiež podarená ale aj dosť naivná a teda poviem vám, že keď som si po prepuknutí citov uvedomila, že sa poznajú naozaj len pár dní trošku ma to zarazilo. Kniha mohla kľudne mať o pár strán viac aby im dopriala viac času na takéto poznanie a city. Inak boli spolu skvelí.
Koniec odhalí mnohé tajomstvá, pričom niektoré z nich úplne milujem a výborne ma navnadili na ďalšiu časť pričom sa teším
ako bude s nimi autorka ďalej pracovať.
Milujem rozprávky a ešte viac milujem ich dnešné knižné retellingy, takže táto novinka inšpirovaná Červenou čiapočkou bola must-read.
Čarodejnica Elara nečakane musí utiecť zo svojej krajiny pohľadať kráľa démonov aby ju ochránil. V lese však stretne Lovca …
Príbeh je od začiatku veľmi zaujímavý, svet výborne vymyslený a postavy sú skvelé.
Keďže utekáme pred ostatnými čarodejnicami máme možnosť bližšie spoznať krajinu za “hranicou”, ktorá je plná nástrah a neznámych stvorení. Do toho nepopierateľná chémia medzi postavami a vy zhltnete knihu, podobne ako ja, za pár hodín.
Lovec sa autorke ako mužská postava vydaril. Má v sebe tú charizmu, ktorú čitateľky milujú a tak si určite získa aj vás. Do toho je obklopenými mnohými tajomstvami, ktoré ma až znervózňovali! A tie jeho malé vyznania … ach! 🫶🏻
Elara je tiež podarená ale aj dosť naivná a teda poviem vám, že keď som si po prepuknutí citov uvedomila, že sa poznajú naozaj len pár dní trošku ma to zarazilo. Kniha mohla kľudne mať o pár strán viac aby im dopriala viac času na takéto poznanie a city. Inak boli spolu skvelí.
Koniec odhalí mnohé tajomstvá, pričom niektoré z nich úplne milujem a výborne ma navnadili na ďalšiu časť pričom sa teším
ako bude s nimi autorka ďalej pracovať.
May 6, 2023
Decent enough pallet cleanser
April 28, 2024
I'm not sure how I feel about this one yet 😂
August 2, 2023
Ahhhh! Madeleine does it again! I was a part of her Alpha team on this one, I got to read it VERY early...and let me tell you, this one was good! It has all the tropes, and I was warned of tropey-ness before I started reading, but I love me a good trope! (And yes, I am using pies as bullet points)
🫓 One bed? ✔
🫓 One horse? ✔
🫓 Forced Proximity babbbbyyyyy! ✔✔✔
🫓 Fake relationship? ✔ (but not for long 😈)
🫓 Fated mates??? ✔ (👀👀👀 you tell me)
🫓 Secret Identity? ✔
🫓 Fish out of water? ✔
🫓 Deal with the devil? ✔
🫓 Keeping secrets? ✔✔✔
🫓 Enemies to Lovers? .5✔ (as they weren't technically enemies at the start...more like acquaintances to lovers to enemies-of-a-sort)
🫓 Forbidden love? ✔(just wait until about 70%!)
To Hunt a Demon follows a young witch, Elara, through her coming of age and discovery that her powers aren't necessarily what she thought they were. Not only is she an exceptionally powerful witch like her mother and grandmother before her, but somehow, someway, she has also ended up with life and death magic. These are partially demon powers, but we never find out more about her father in book one to give us more insight into how she received these unique gifts. And upon the discovery of these additional powers, she must flee for her life FROM HER OWN GRANDMOTHER, who is the Crone of their coven. Elara was a sheltered girl who didn't have much life experience beyond learning magic, failing at baking pies, hearing tall tales from her outgoing best friend, and helping her mother in healing mortals. So I really enjoyed the beginning of the journey with her! She is achey and sore and covered in blisters and cuts from traveling, and she lets us know about it. She isn't a character who just up and does something extremely opposite of her normal day-to-day and has no problem with it—she is relatable! Elara is strong in her will and knowledge and beliefs, yet vulnerable because she hasn't been fully informed on any history or current events. She learns more and more about demons along the way and discovers that her own people might be the ones at fault in historical AND current events. I love her wit and her acceptance of things going sideways when they do, which they do often, and I love that she holds Hunt accountable!
Our main man in this book is Hunt, who discovers Elara in the Bloodwood after she runs for her life upon the discovery of her powers. His companions, a giant wolf who loves our FMC and a bat-like owl bird—a strix—join them on the journey to get Red, as Hunt calls Elara, to the Darklands. There is witty banter and tension and mistrust all around during the first few days of their trip, as well as some really *fun* monsters that try to kill Elara. Hunt is a sexy, funny, witty, strong lead who knows how to fend for himself and protect those he cares about. He has a soft, warm, and fuzzy side in his relationship with Akela and Artemis, his animal companions, that automatically brings him up several notches in my esteem...and also in Elara's books as well. While we love our MMC, we discover that he was lying. He is not a mortal huntsman like he said at first, and reiterated at every available opportunity, but he is a demon. Not only that. We discover that he is the Demon King! I assumed this would be the case from the start, so it wasn't a big reveal to me, but I loved seeing Elara start picking up the clues and coming to the same conclusion. AND not only is he the Demon King, but he underhandedly bound Elara to him on their journey—AND he is keeping another secret that he hasn't revealed, even to the reader...I cannot wait to see how this plays out in full in book 2!
I'm excited for the next installment of this to see how Madeleine explains who Elara's father is, how she gained these powers, and what this new secret Carnon is keeping turns out to be!
Rating: 3⭐
🫓 One bed? ✔
🫓 One horse? ✔
🫓 Forced Proximity babbbbyyyyy! ✔✔✔
🫓 Fake relationship? ✔ (but not for long 😈)
🫓 Fated mates??? ✔ (👀👀👀 you tell me)
🫓 Secret Identity? ✔
🫓 Fish out of water? ✔
🫓 Deal with the devil? ✔
🫓 Keeping secrets? ✔✔✔
🫓 Enemies to Lovers? .5✔ (as they weren't technically enemies at the start...more like acquaintances to lovers to enemies-of-a-sort)
🫓 Forbidden love? ✔(just wait until about 70%!)
To Hunt a Demon follows a young witch, Elara, through her coming of age and discovery that her powers aren't necessarily what she thought they were. Not only is she an exceptionally powerful witch like her mother and grandmother before her, but somehow, someway, she has also ended up with life and death magic. These are partially demon powers, but we never find out more about her father in book one to give us more insight into how she received these unique gifts. And upon the discovery of these additional powers, she must flee for her life FROM HER OWN GRANDMOTHER, who is the Crone of their coven. Elara was a sheltered girl who didn't have much life experience beyond learning magic, failing at baking pies, hearing tall tales from her outgoing best friend, and helping her mother in healing mortals. So I really enjoyed the beginning of the journey with her! She is achey and sore and covered in blisters and cuts from traveling, and she lets us know about it. She isn't a character who just up and does something extremely opposite of her normal day-to-day and has no problem with it—she is relatable! Elara is strong in her will and knowledge and beliefs, yet vulnerable because she hasn't been fully informed on any history or current events. She learns more and more about demons along the way and discovers that her own people might be the ones at fault in historical AND current events. I love her wit and her acceptance of things going sideways when they do, which they do often, and I love that she holds Hunt accountable!
Our main man in this book is Hunt, who discovers Elara in the Bloodwood after she runs for her life upon the discovery of her powers. His companions, a giant wolf who loves our FMC and a bat-like owl bird—a strix—join them on the journey to get Red, as Hunt calls Elara, to the Darklands. There is witty banter and tension and mistrust all around during the first few days of their trip, as well as some really *fun* monsters that try to kill Elara. Hunt is a sexy, funny, witty, strong lead who knows how to fend for himself and protect those he cares about. He has a soft, warm, and fuzzy side in his relationship with Akela and Artemis, his animal companions, that automatically brings him up several notches in my esteem...and also in Elara's books as well. While we love our MMC, we discover that he was lying. He is not a mortal huntsman like he said at first, and reiterated at every available opportunity, but he is a demon. Not only that. We discover that he is the Demon King! I assumed this would be the case from the start, so it wasn't a big reveal to me, but I loved seeing Elara start picking up the clues and coming to the same conclusion. AND not only is he the Demon King, but he underhandedly bound Elara to him on their journey—AND he is keeping another secret that he hasn't revealed, even to the reader...I cannot wait to see how this plays out in full in book 2!
I'm excited for the next installment of this to see how Madeleine explains who Elara's father is, how she gained these powers, and what this new secret Carnon is keeping turns out to be!
Rating: 3⭐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2023
Absolutely captivating!
Kept secluded in the outskirts of the Witchlands all her life, Elara wants nothing more than to finally be allowed to join the Coven and become a full-fledged witch. Her mother, however, has always refused. She insists Elara wait until she has reached the age of maturity before she can join the coven. But when a magic that should not be possible manifests on Elara's twenty-fifth birthday and she suddenly finds herself fleeing for her life, she realizes her mother may have had good reason to keep her away.
To keep her out of the hands of her cruel grandmother, the Crone of the coven, her mother sends her deep into the Bloodwood, urging Elara to seek the Demon King and invoke his protection. It goes against everything Elara has ever been taught about demons and the Darkland. But what choice does she have? But soon her path crosses with a devastatingly good-looking hunter and his animal friends and Elara will be forced to question the validity of what she knows about the demon world - and herself.
This book was absolutely delicious. First off, the Little Red Riding Hood inspiration was very apparent from the onset but not in a way that was distracting. The inspiration, in my opinion, was perfectly mixed in and balanced. None of it felt forced. Secondly, Elara is phenomenal and Hunt is to die for. Their reluctant partnership and snarky banter are everything I live for. The spice took a little while, but boy was it worth waiting for! I thoroughly enjoyed each and every scene.
I cannot wait to see how this story progresses. I have so many questions I need answered. How did Elara's mother get that necklace? Is what I suspect about Elara true? How is Granny dearest going to screw this all up because I just KNOW it's coming.
I also need more Hunt like yesterday. And trust me, so do you!
Kept secluded in the outskirts of the Witchlands all her life, Elara wants nothing more than to finally be allowed to join the Coven and become a full-fledged witch. Her mother, however, has always refused. She insists Elara wait until she has reached the age of maturity before she can join the coven. But when a magic that should not be possible manifests on Elara's twenty-fifth birthday and she suddenly finds herself fleeing for her life, she realizes her mother may have had good reason to keep her away.
To keep her out of the hands of her cruel grandmother, the Crone of the coven, her mother sends her deep into the Bloodwood, urging Elara to seek the Demon King and invoke his protection. It goes against everything Elara has ever been taught about demons and the Darkland. But what choice does she have? But soon her path crosses with a devastatingly good-looking hunter and his animal friends and Elara will be forced to question the validity of what she knows about the demon world - and herself.
This book was absolutely delicious. First off, the Little Red Riding Hood inspiration was very apparent from the onset but not in a way that was distracting. The inspiration, in my opinion, was perfectly mixed in and balanced. None of it felt forced. Secondly, Elara is phenomenal and Hunt is to die for. Their reluctant partnership and snarky banter are everything I live for. The spice took a little while, but boy was it worth waiting for! I thoroughly enjoyed each and every scene.
I cannot wait to see how this story progresses. I have so many questions I need answered. How did Elara's mother get that necklace? Is what I suspect about Elara true? How is Granny dearest going to screw this all up because I just KNOW it's coming.
I also need more Hunt like yesterday. And trust me, so do you!
July 1, 2023
5 ⭐️ 2.5 🌶️
“You are an unexpected surprise, Red.”
This book was an unexpected surprise. In all honesty, I started the audio and wasn’t feeling it. I swapped over to reading the actual book and WOW. I was in a “mood” and it was EVERYTHING I needed. I snuggled up in front of the fire and devoured it in one sitting, because that’s what it was- a comfortable, easy, perfect read.
I adored both the main characters, the banter between them made for a really fun read. I found the world building and magical system easy to understand, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need. Enough detail to keep it interesting, but simple enough we don’t need to think too hard.
The plot was well developed- it had everything. There was romance, loyalty & friendship, secrets & lies, unresolved threats, and a delicious slice of spice.
Overall it made for a perfect, easy, short read. I am absolutely itching to get my hands on book 2 To Break A Demon Curse.
“You are an unexpected surprise, Red.”
This book was an unexpected surprise. In all honesty, I started the audio and wasn’t feeling it. I swapped over to reading the actual book and WOW. I was in a “mood” and it was EVERYTHING I needed. I snuggled up in front of the fire and devoured it in one sitting, because that’s what it was- a comfortable, easy, perfect read.
I adored both the main characters, the banter between them made for a really fun read. I found the world building and magical system easy to understand, and sometimes that’s exactly what we need. Enough detail to keep it interesting, but simple enough we don’t need to think too hard.
The plot was well developed- it had everything. There was romance, loyalty & friendship, secrets & lies, unresolved threats, and a delicious slice of spice.
Overall it made for a perfect, easy, short read. I am absolutely itching to get my hands on book 2 To Break A Demon Curse.
July 4, 2024
This book is the wonder bread and Kraft singles grilled cheese of Romantasy. The ingredients aren’t that good but somehow enjoyable and nostalgic. That said I won’t be continuing this series.
The worldbuilding is minimal, borrowing heavily from Wicca, and I suppose it made it familiar and comfortable.
The weakness of the book is in its characters, specifically the FMC. She was so naive that the stated age of 25 is ridiculous and in my head she was 19. She is a sassy redhead, imaginatively nicknamed “Red”, who alternated between sassy quips and confusion. She allowed the MMC to lead her around as soon as she left the protection of her mother. Nothing she did was on her own initiative.
The MMC is quite standard and nothing to write home about. He “smirked” approximately 85 times in 350 pages. Had black hair, sarcastic, and is also a Demon King. Wish he had been more interesting but inoffensive.
The worldbuilding is minimal, borrowing heavily from Wicca, and I suppose it made it familiar and comfortable.
The weakness of the book is in its characters, specifically the FMC. She was so naive that the stated age of 25 is ridiculous and in my head she was 19. She is a sassy redhead, imaginatively nicknamed “Red”, who alternated between sassy quips and confusion. She allowed the MMC to lead her around as soon as she left the protection of her mother. Nothing she did was on her own initiative.
The MMC is quite standard and nothing to write home about. He “smirked” approximately 85 times in 350 pages. Had black hair, sarcastic, and is also a Demon King. Wish he had been more interesting but inoffensive.
May 30, 2023
This book was very addictive once I started and I literally read it in 24 hours. When that happens, you just know that it's good!
It had almost all my favorite tropes and I loved the witty dynamic between Hunt and Red! I like books where the character is forced to see outside their little bubble and learn on their own that different doesn't equal bad and I feel like this story delivers on that front, as Elara (Red) learns new things about the demon realm. I also loved the passion and sincerity shown by Hunt and Red's fierce determination!
As an animal lover, Akela was for sure my favorite character! 🐺
I have been so lucky to be an ARC reader for this author, as each book I've read has been such an adventure!
✨Definately add this book to your TBR!✨
It had almost all my favorite tropes and I loved the witty dynamic between Hunt and Red! I like books where the character is forced to see outside their little bubble and learn on their own that different doesn't equal bad and I feel like this story delivers on that front, as Elara (Red) learns new things about the demon realm. I also loved the passion and sincerity shown by Hunt and Red's fierce determination!
As an animal lover, Akela was for sure my favorite character! 🐺
I have been so lucky to be an ARC reader for this author, as each book I've read has been such an adventure!
✨Definately add this book to your TBR!✨
November 28, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
normally naive fmc’s aren’t my thing, but here i honestly didn’t mind it. i think it was played very well. enough to drive home the point of how sheltered she is but not enough that it’s excessive and over the line.
hunt is so sexy and i love how sassy elara is!
i found the banter and the tension build up very nice here. spice was yummy. the plot was also very good, although some parts were predictable (and not in a bad way).
i’m mad at myself for not reading these sooner!! i cannot wait to binge the rest of these books!!
✨tropes✨
✨ witches & demons
✨ gods & goddesses
✨ secret identities
✨ magic
✨ mates
✨ hidden engagement
✨ forced proximity
✨ one horse
🌶️🌶️
normally naive fmc’s aren’t my thing, but here i honestly didn’t mind it. i think it was played very well. enough to drive home the point of how sheltered she is but not enough that it’s excessive and over the line.
hunt is so sexy and i love how sassy elara is!
i found the banter and the tension build up very nice here. spice was yummy. the plot was also very good, although some parts were predictable (and not in a bad way).
i’m mad at myself for not reading these sooner!! i cannot wait to binge the rest of these books!!
✨tropes✨
✨ witches & demons
✨ gods & goddesses
✨ secret identities
✨ magic
✨ mates
✨ hidden engagement
✨ forced proximity
✨ one horse
June 10, 2023
The sentence structure and idea was good.
That being said, the characters were flatter than cardboard.
The ML doesn't stop 'chuckling', or 'grinning'.
The MC is an idiot, but then becomes the all seeing sage at the end of the book.
A lot of obvious and nonsensical no/low stakes plot points.
2 stars
That being said, the characters were flatter than cardboard.
The ML doesn't stop 'chuckling', or 'grinning'.
The MC is an idiot, but then becomes the all seeing sage at the end of the book.
A lot of obvious and nonsensical no/low stakes plot points.
2 stars
December 20, 2024
on god luck kept her alive otherwise she was as dumb as rocks
May 9, 2023
To Hunt A Demon King by Madeline Elliot is a witchcore inspired Little Red Riding Hood retelling. It's follows our heroine, the red headed witch Elara. Living in a secluded cottage with her mother Elara is sheltered from witch society and the outside world her entire life.Elara wants nothing more than to join her coven and make a name for herself amongst her fellow witches. Until her 25th birthday when Elara discovers (quite by accident in Elara fashion) that she is cursed (or blessed ;)..) with demon magic.
Hoping to save her from the clutches of her deranged zealot grandmother, the crone of the witch coven , Elaras mother sends her on a mission to cross the blood wood and find the Demon King. Elara, having been fed stories of the crulity of the Demon King and his kingdom across the wood, is both scared and confused why her mother would send her on such a quest.
And so in the fashion of the story of little red riding hood, Elara comes across a Hunter, the oh so aptly named Hunt . Hunt is gruff, mysterious, and frustratingly charming. He along with his two animal familiars Akela the wolf and Artemis the Strix agree to guide Elara to the Demon King. As frustrating as he is Elara finds herself growing closer and closer to the hunter. She also, through near constant banter between her and Hunt, finds herself questioning all she thought she knew about the world of demons and witches.
Will Elara learn the secret of her Demon magic? Will she make it through the bloodwood to find the Demon King? Read the book to find out 😏
So. This book was fun! It's a light hearted, witchcore fluffy romantasy. It's written very much like a rom com (at least thats how i saw it) and overall the stakes in this book are moderately low. (Its also the first in a series so it might kick it up down the line) I personally am not a huge fan of the sheltered Virgin heroine trope 🤷♀️ so the character development was difficult for me to trudge through. And at times it was difficult to remember she was supposed to be 25 I kept picturing her much younger. But all in all the world building is very palatable, this is a great introductory type book for those wanting to dive into romantasy/fairy tale retelling. The relationship between Hunt and Elara is charming, very along the lines of FBAA. It's very "Interesting" as Hunt would say. The twist at the end isn't too earth shattering so nothing too horrible in regards to a cliffy. Was it my favorite book ever? No. Did I finish it in one sitting ? Yes. Will I read the next one? Probably.
OVERALL: 🌟 🌟 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶
Hoping to save her from the clutches of her deranged zealot grandmother, the crone of the witch coven , Elaras mother sends her on a mission to cross the blood wood and find the Demon King. Elara, having been fed stories of the crulity of the Demon King and his kingdom across the wood, is both scared and confused why her mother would send her on such a quest.
And so in the fashion of the story of little red riding hood, Elara comes across a Hunter, the oh so aptly named Hunt . Hunt is gruff, mysterious, and frustratingly charming. He along with his two animal familiars Akela the wolf and Artemis the Strix agree to guide Elara to the Demon King. As frustrating as he is Elara finds herself growing closer and closer to the hunter. She also, through near constant banter between her and Hunt, finds herself questioning all she thought she knew about the world of demons and witches.
Will Elara learn the secret of her Demon magic? Will she make it through the bloodwood to find the Demon King? Read the book to find out 😏
So. This book was fun! It's a light hearted, witchcore fluffy romantasy. It's written very much like a rom com (at least thats how i saw it) and overall the stakes in this book are moderately low. (Its also the first in a series so it might kick it up down the line) I personally am not a huge fan of the sheltered Virgin heroine trope 🤷♀️ so the character development was difficult for me to trudge through. And at times it was difficult to remember she was supposed to be 25 I kept picturing her much younger. But all in all the world building is very palatable, this is a great introductory type book for those wanting to dive into romantasy/fairy tale retelling. The relationship between Hunt and Elara is charming, very along the lines of FBAA. It's very "Interesting" as Hunt would say. The twist at the end isn't too earth shattering so nothing too horrible in regards to a cliffy. Was it my favorite book ever? No. Did I finish it in one sitting ? Yes. Will I read the next one? Probably.
OVERALL: 🌟 🌟 🌟
SPICE: 🌶 🌶
January 6, 2026
Aktuálně ani nevím, jestli se po dočtení téhle knihy culím jako magor, směju se jako magor, nebo jsem úplně v háji. Nečekala jsem, že to bude tak rychlé, ale… dávám prvních 5 ★ za tenhle rok, protože tohle bylo neskutečně skvělé. Je to knížka, kterou jsem musela přečíst celou za jeden den. Protagonisté, svět i samotný námět, strašně skvělý – i když je po konci cítit to klasické klišé – nic to nemění na tom, že nutně potřebuji další díl.
June 18, 2023
ARC & ALC Review ⭐ 4.5 stars
Now I usually just say what I thought of the book, but considering that not many of you may have heard of it, let me start differently this time.
This book was a smutty Little Red Riding Hood retelling with witches and demons. In the first chapters we meet Elara – a witch just about to reach maturity and attend her first coven meeting. Before she gets to enjoy her adult life she finds out she possesses powers that would not be welcomed by others and goes on a run for her life. That is when she bumps into a hunter called… Hunt. And his animal companions. He decides to help Red (Elara) run away from the coven for a good prize…
Now this sounds exciting right? What if I told you there is also a good mix of tropes in it: one bed/horse, enemies to lovers, deal with the devil, forced proximity and more.
I really wish this book got more recognition out there. To all who enjoy smut and fairytale retellings – go get this book and I promise you won’t be disappointed! It was one of my fastest reads, as it only took me 2/3 sittings to finish it (usually it’s probably 7+). The pace of it was just perfect for me, sitting somewhere between fast and medium pace.
Now what are my thoughts after reading it? I knew Madeleine’s book was going to be great, but this surprised me in ways I can’t explain! Hunt was sooo charming, I’d swap with Elara any time. The plot twists were chef’s kiss and the ending was all I could think of for the next few days!
Now I usually just say what I thought of the book, but considering that not many of you may have heard of it, let me start differently this time.
This book was a smutty Little Red Riding Hood retelling with witches and demons. In the first chapters we meet Elara – a witch just about to reach maturity and attend her first coven meeting. Before she gets to enjoy her adult life she finds out she possesses powers that would not be welcomed by others and goes on a run for her life. That is when she bumps into a hunter called… Hunt. And his animal companions. He decides to help Red (Elara) run away from the coven for a good prize…
Now this sounds exciting right? What if I told you there is also a good mix of tropes in it: one bed/horse, enemies to lovers, deal with the devil, forced proximity and more.
I really wish this book got more recognition out there. To all who enjoy smut and fairytale retellings – go get this book and I promise you won’t be disappointed! It was one of my fastest reads, as it only took me 2/3 sittings to finish it (usually it’s probably 7+). The pace of it was just perfect for me, sitting somewhere between fast and medium pace.
Now what are my thoughts after reading it? I knew Madeleine’s book was going to be great, but this surprised me in ways I can’t explain! Hunt was sooo charming, I’d swap with Elara any time. The plot twists were chef’s kiss and the ending was all I could think of for the next few days!
April 16, 2023
“ I’m still interested “
Into the woods we go … “ red” is thrusted out of her normal life on her birthday and thrown into the blood woods to escape for her life with a list of commands her mother gives her to get her to safety . Here she meets the most beautiful wolf Akela and his owner “ hunt” a bargain struck and they are off to deliver “ red “ to the darklands to complete the mission.. what could go wrong with a trip in to the blood woods after all ? …
Having been gifted this arc I was excited about reading it because I love madeleines previous books ( if you’ve not read the Queen of all fae series what ya doing ?) not only that but because I’m a huge sl*t for a fairy tale retelling and we’ve all heard the story of little red riding hood but not like this !
When I hit 42% I was in awe because the whole back and fourth banter they had since their meeting eachother had finally reached it’s peak, Madeline you did this amazingly. I started to get really excited at the intense volley hunt and red had going on in that moment ! I was eating that up like good soup . Madeline wrote the tension between them so well it had me gagging !!
My favourite character is 100% Akela his little whines when they argued and the “ traitorousness “ he had when he picked a side I loved him ! He didn’t even have to talk to convey what he was thinking and Madeleine again did this well ! I now need a wolf as a pet so thanks for that .
I screamed “ Madeleine what are you doing to me “ too many times at my kindle oh my goddess this man is so smoothe with his words ( and tongue ) and I have freckles so it made me feel ✨special✨🤣
Overall I loved this book the plot is based on truths and lies , honestly I think the biggest lie was all the rumours about demons that red had been told BUT hunts gonna change all that because he’s lovely
the plot twists were plot twisting !
The ending of this book had me enthralled with these characters even more so like my love for them was signed sealed and delivered ! red is probably your most badass female character that you’ve written ! Furthermore the ending left me begging for the second book I was thrilled to read this as an arc and I cannot wait to hopefully see red and hunt come together 💜
I will say this : Madeleine you have STEPPED UP your writing and I cannot believe I’m lucky enough to be part of your arc team and watch you progress into a shining author please remember us when you’re famous 💜
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Expect these tropes :
* Enemies to lovers
* Only one bed / horse
* Hidden identities
* Touch her and you die
March 27, 2023
“Let them hear, Red,” he said, tilting my face up to his again. “I want the whole city to hear you scream my name. To know you’re mine.”
When Madeleine told her group of feral fan girls that she was working on a spicy little red riding hood retelling, but like with witches and demons? Honey child I was sold that very second. Then I had the absolute honor and privilege to be added to her alpha team to read this?!!! 😭😭 it was SO 👏🏻 GOOD 👏🏻
🐺 TROPES & THEMES 🐺
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ forced proximity 😏
✔️ one bed/horse trope 😏😏😏
✔️ found powers
✔️ witches & demons, with tension between them
✔️ little red riding hood retelling
✔️ medium/slow burn with 🔥 pay off 🔥
✔️ super cute animal familiars 🤣🥹 🦉/🦇 & 🐺
We follow Elara in this book - nearly 25 and has been ridiculously sheltered her entire life by her mom. All she’s ever wanted was to be a part of their witches coven and join in on their meetings, but her mom had always been adamant she must wait until she’s 25 - when her powers awaken.
On her birthday, she helps her mother with a midwife job and things go from bad, to great, to bad again. (I must keep it vague bc spoilers lol) and she finds herself unexpectedly having to run into demon territory to invoke protection from the horned god to protect her from her coven and Crone leader, her grandmother, who her mom swears must not find out what her powers are.
She’s sent into the woods, and there she meets our man, Hunt. Hunt is going through the woods with his animal pals Akela and Artemis. She tells him where she’s supposed to go, and he tells her he can help get her there - for a price… her black stone necklace her mother sent her with. The only piece of her mom she has left. She reluctantly agrees.
Most of the book is of their journey together to the demon kingdom, and I loooooved it. The banter, the tension, and ultimately the plot twist at the end. It was all SO freaking good. I was fortunate enough to have read Madeleine’s stories from the beginning and I’m so impressed by her creative mind and growth as an author. This book will be a series, and she made it the most delicious slow burn. I thought the book has excellent pacing and never once was I bored! I can’t wait for everyone else to get the chance to read this book. 👀
As for me, I guess I’ll just be sitting here secretly hoping she drops book 2 bombs my way. 🤣🤣🤣 👀
Mark your calendars people, May 30th! READ THIS BOOK!!
When Madeleine told her group of feral fan girls that she was working on a spicy little red riding hood retelling, but like with witches and demons? Honey child I was sold that very second. Then I had the absolute honor and privilege to be added to her alpha team to read this?!!! 😭😭 it was SO 👏🏻 GOOD 👏🏻
🐺 TROPES & THEMES 🐺
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ forced proximity 😏
✔️ one bed/horse trope 😏😏😏
✔️ found powers
✔️ witches & demons, with tension between them
✔️ little red riding hood retelling
✔️ medium/slow burn with 🔥 pay off 🔥
✔️ super cute animal familiars 🤣🥹 🦉/🦇 & 🐺
We follow Elara in this book - nearly 25 and has been ridiculously sheltered her entire life by her mom. All she’s ever wanted was to be a part of their witches coven and join in on their meetings, but her mom had always been adamant she must wait until she’s 25 - when her powers awaken.
On her birthday, she helps her mother with a midwife job and things go from bad, to great, to bad again. (I must keep it vague bc spoilers lol) and she finds herself unexpectedly having to run into demon territory to invoke protection from the horned god to protect her from her coven and Crone leader, her grandmother, who her mom swears must not find out what her powers are.
She’s sent into the woods, and there she meets our man, Hunt. Hunt is going through the woods with his animal pals Akela and Artemis. She tells him where she’s supposed to go, and he tells her he can help get her there - for a price… her black stone necklace her mother sent her with. The only piece of her mom she has left. She reluctantly agrees.
Most of the book is of their journey together to the demon kingdom, and I loooooved it. The banter, the tension, and ultimately the plot twist at the end. It was all SO freaking good. I was fortunate enough to have read Madeleine’s stories from the beginning and I’m so impressed by her creative mind and growth as an author. This book will be a series, and she made it the most delicious slow burn. I thought the book has excellent pacing and never once was I bored! I can’t wait for everyone else to get the chance to read this book. 👀
As for me, I guess I’ll just be sitting here secretly hoping she drops book 2 bombs my way. 🤣🤣🤣 👀
Mark your calendars people, May 30th! READ THIS BOOK!!
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