What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dúbailte Chronicles #1
Hidden Elements
A Story of Elemental Magic , the mixing of elements is forbidden. A woman hidden on another world, a man hidden in plain sight. A prophecy that turns their own people against them. Two strangers must work together to save themselves and the world they come from.
An elemental Fae with forbidden magic, Keegan grew up on Earth, with her mom, best friend, and familiar. She knew about Tír na nÓg, the Fae homeworld, but was unable to live there due to a foreboding prophecy. When her mother becomes ill, Keegan must find a way to pay the specialists.
Calder is a Fae who was able to grow up on the homeworld, but he was forced to hide his own secret from everyone but his family. He currently lives on Earth, expanding the family woodworking business as well as dealing with his three brothers and familiar.
When these two cross paths, an unforgettable journey begins. Will they be able to keep their families, and their secrets, safe along the way?
An elemental Fae with forbidden magic, Keegan grew up on Earth, with her mom, best friend, and familiar. She knew about Tír na nÓg, the Fae homeworld, but was unable to live there due to a foreboding prophecy. When her mother becomes ill, Keegan must find a way to pay the specialists.
Calder is a Fae who was able to grow up on the homeworld, but he was forced to hide his own secret from everyone but his family. He currently lives on Earth, expanding the family woodworking business as well as dealing with his three brothers and familiar.
When these two cross paths, an unforgettable journey begins. Will they be able to keep their families, and their secrets, safe along the way?
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 9, 2023
83 people are currently reading
627 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 6, 2025
This is a special book. I went into this book with no expectations and came away after the last amazingly happy. This is a 5-star read for me. This rating is something that I went in between 4-star and 5-star though. Let's dive into what made this book amazing.
First off, this could be viewed differently by other readers, The use of another language throughout the book blew me away. I have always been interested in other languages and what a way to make you learn and fast! To know that this could make or break some book reviews, and still took the time to show the inspiration in spreading language and learning is very impressive.
I do love the elemental magic and how it is divided up into the realm. I also love familiars and companions in novels. This one outdid any other companion book I have ever read. Calder and Keegan's familiars were incredibly lively and brought light in the dark moments and I really do appreciate that. I can't wait for the next book to watch them grow.
The found family aspects of this book were incredible. The found family and family aspect of this book was really well done and brought the whole book together from beginning to end.
The main reason this book is a 5-star read is the nostalgia and laughs it brought me. I ended this book with a smile on my face and immediately was genuinely happy that this book found me.
I will say that the relationship between Keegan and Calder felt a bit rushed. I did not see where the buildup was on this, although this relationship had more humor in it then most other relationships in other books.
To end this, This book brought immediate joy while reading and am very excited for the next chapter in these characters lives.
First off, this could be viewed differently by other readers, The use of another language throughout the book blew me away. I have always been interested in other languages and what a way to make you learn and fast! To know that this could make or break some book reviews, and still took the time to show the inspiration in spreading language and learning is very impressive.
I do love the elemental magic and how it is divided up into the realm. I also love familiars and companions in novels. This one outdid any other companion book I have ever read. Calder and Keegan's familiars were incredibly lively and brought light in the dark moments and I really do appreciate that. I can't wait for the next book to watch them grow.
The found family aspects of this book were incredible. The found family and family aspect of this book was really well done and brought the whole book together from beginning to end.
The main reason this book is a 5-star read is the nostalgia and laughs it brought me. I ended this book with a smile on my face and immediately was genuinely happy that this book found me.
I will say that the relationship between Keegan and Calder felt a bit rushed. I did not see where the buildup was on this, although this relationship had more humor in it then most other relationships in other books.
To end this, This book brought immediate joy while reading and am very excited for the next chapter in these characters lives.
July 6, 2025
If you are looking for an “atmosphere” book with good banter and side characters to giggle at, then this is the book for you.
If you prefer a fantasy that is plot driven, this may not be the best fit. The main storyline is very slow, with little happening until about the 240 page mark. It tries to end on a cliffhanger, but unfortunately, not enough has happened to make it a cliffhanger worthwhile.
That being said, if you want a book that has a smooth, fae connection, and just a relaxing read, I do recommend. I enjoyed the flow but do wish more happened. I will read the next in the series, with the hope that book one was just world building for action to happen in book 2.
If you prefer a fantasy that is plot driven, this may not be the best fit. The main storyline is very slow, with little happening until about the 240 page mark. It tries to end on a cliffhanger, but unfortunately, not enough has happened to make it a cliffhanger worthwhile.
That being said, if you want a book that has a smooth, fae connection, and just a relaxing read, I do recommend. I enjoyed the flow but do wish more happened. I will read the next in the series, with the hope that book one was just world building for action to happen in book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2024
I love elemental magic, and I feel it was done really well here. The world built was very cool and I loved how the author incorporated our world as well. I've also never read anything Irish based before and thought it was beautiful. For me, all the Irish words were a challenge, even with the ability to flip to the glossary, it took me out of the story more often then I would have liked but all in all a wonderful story.
April 27, 2024
* I did get this book through NetGalley*
This book is about Keegan and Calder. Keegan's mother is sick and she can't get diagnosed on Earth. as she was originally from the Fae World, but had to move away once she found out she was pregnant with Keegan. To help get the money it would take to help cure her mother, Keegan and her best friend Cara work as waiters in a casino fundraising night. They also happen to be the ones moving the cash - and skimming a little off of the top as well. They are caught by Calder - one of the people hosting their fundraiser to begin with. He does not tell on them, instead he helps them get jobs and tries to find a way to help her mother. But, both have secrets about their fae abilities that they have to hide, family secrets, and jealous friends/foe that they must go around to be able to work together. and keep Keegan and her mother safe.
This book put in the biggest reading slump ever. I was reading at least once everyday but that completely stopped for like a month when I started reading this book. I just could not get into it. Like this girl is robbing charity and bc she's pretty she gets a free pass?? I just wish they met in ANY other circumstance because Calder would've had the insta-love thing still so she could've just asked him. I also just thought the writing was super cringy in some parts - like I am not sure this book was written for the Gen-Z mind because I kept getting secondhand embarrassment for the tiniest of things - like the "fight" at the end because I don't understand why Keegan ran away like that. Speaking of the insta-love thing, I just did not believe the love that was happening in the book. I got the feeling of friendship and love that way, but insta-love between the two main characters was just not believable. Like suddenly he spent a day with her and then never wanted to life without her. I don't want it to be a full slow burn, but at least a little more slow burn than it was. And then Calder was going to give it up but Keegan was like so upset like it's been less than a week at this point, right?
Anyways I hate to rate it so low because I feel like other people would like this book because it has fantasy, romance, mystery, friendship, jealous antagonists, but it was just not for me personally.
This book is about Keegan and Calder. Keegan's mother is sick and she can't get diagnosed on Earth. as she was originally from the Fae World, but had to move away once she found out she was pregnant with Keegan. To help get the money it would take to help cure her mother, Keegan and her best friend Cara work as waiters in a casino fundraising night. They also happen to be the ones moving the cash - and skimming a little off of the top as well. They are caught by Calder - one of the people hosting their fundraiser to begin with. He does not tell on them, instead he helps them get jobs and tries to find a way to help her mother. But, both have secrets about their fae abilities that they have to hide, family secrets, and jealous friends/foe that they must go around to be able to work together. and keep Keegan and her mother safe.
This book put in the biggest reading slump ever. I was reading at least once everyday but that completely stopped for like a month when I started reading this book. I just could not get into it. Like this girl is robbing charity and bc she's pretty she gets a free pass?? I just wish they met in ANY other circumstance because Calder would've had the insta-love thing still so she could've just asked him. I also just thought the writing was super cringy in some parts - like I am not sure this book was written for the Gen-Z mind because I kept getting secondhand embarrassment for the tiniest of things - like the "fight" at the end because I don't understand why Keegan ran away like that. Speaking of the insta-love thing, I just did not believe the love that was happening in the book. I got the feeling of friendship and love that way, but insta-love between the two main characters was just not believable. Like suddenly he spent a day with her and then never wanted to life without her. I don't want it to be a full slow burn, but at least a little more slow burn than it was. And then Calder was going to give it up but Keegan was like so upset like it's been less than a week at this point, right?
Anyways I hate to rate it so low because I feel like other people would like this book because it has fantasy, romance, mystery, friendship, jealous antagonists, but it was just not for me personally.
June 17, 2024
Set in a dual reality where modern day Earth is connected by portals to the fae realm.
Meet the FMC: Keegan is a feisty, Irish, redheaded fae with an explosion of curls and two elemental gifts: Fire and Air. She was raised on Earth by her mother with her best friend Cara and her familiar, Aine.
Meet the MMC: Calder is an Irish fae raised by his mother after her husband passed. He comes from a huge, well respected family in the Aos Si fae and spent much of his adult life primarily on Earth helping run the family's Earth based businesses. He weilds Earth and Water magic.
This book is told from the third person POV and follows the lives and adventures of multiple characters.
No spoilers, but a general synopsis: a deadly prophecy marks all fae with more than one elemental power abominations. Two such fae find each other and, with their families, must fight prejudice and prepare for literal monsters to save the Aos Si fae. This is a must for your TBR!
This is a fun, romantic fantasy series with tons of humor! There's a large, warm Irish fae family, talking familiars, slow burn, and elemental magic ✨️💖 What else does a girl need?!
Keegan and Calder are both dual wielders, which spells trouble in the fae realm. They meet under dubious circumstances (wait until you read about why Keegan should NEVER take up crime as a career path) and click instantly. They team up with their friends and family to help Keegan's mother recover her health. That seems sweet and innocent right? What could go wrong?? Enter the traditionalists, the dark fae puppet masters, the jealousy floosies, and all the drama and politics of the mortal realm. But with magical stakes. This is just the beginning!
I will certainly be back for the next book! I'm looking forward to seeing continued development in the multiple side characters. There are so many opportunities here for spin offs, twists, and turns! This book does not disappoint!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Meet the FMC: Keegan is a feisty, Irish, redheaded fae with an explosion of curls and two elemental gifts: Fire and Air. She was raised on Earth by her mother with her best friend Cara and her familiar, Aine.
Meet the MMC: Calder is an Irish fae raised by his mother after her husband passed. He comes from a huge, well respected family in the Aos Si fae and spent much of his adult life primarily on Earth helping run the family's Earth based businesses. He weilds Earth and Water magic.
This book is told from the third person POV and follows the lives and adventures of multiple characters.
No spoilers, but a general synopsis: a deadly prophecy marks all fae with more than one elemental power abominations. Two such fae find each other and, with their families, must fight prejudice and prepare for literal monsters to save the Aos Si fae. This is a must for your TBR!
This is a fun, romantic fantasy series with tons of humor! There's a large, warm Irish fae family, talking familiars, slow burn, and elemental magic ✨️💖 What else does a girl need?!
Keegan and Calder are both dual wielders, which spells trouble in the fae realm. They meet under dubious circumstances (wait until you read about why Keegan should NEVER take up crime as a career path) and click instantly. They team up with their friends and family to help Keegan's mother recover her health. That seems sweet and innocent right? What could go wrong?? Enter the traditionalists, the dark fae puppet masters, the jealousy floosies, and all the drama and politics of the mortal realm. But with magical stakes. This is just the beginning!
I will certainly be back for the next book! I'm looking forward to seeing continued development in the multiple side characters. There are so many opportunities here for spin offs, twists, and turns! This book does not disappoint!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 10, 2024
Double elements is not tolerated due to a curse from a prophecy.
Meet Keegan a fae who was born and raised on Earth to hid the fact that he mother and father were from different elemental backgrounds giving her double elemental magic. on earth she hides her powers from the human and knows she would be hunted should she return to the fae lands. As her mother is suddenly becoming sick and no one can find a reason she is trying to come up with the funds for a specialist when she has a crazy but terrible idea which happens to put her in contact with another fae whom is determined to help her and her mother out.
Calder grew up on the home world with his influential family who hid the fact that he had double elements. He now lives on Earth but maintains his connection to the home world where most of his family still resides. However, he finds himself face to face with a stunning fae who is getting herself into some trouble but realizes he can help her by going back to the home world.
The journey these 2 will embark on to save her mother and keep their double elements a secret is absolutely riveting. Also their familiars are such characters.
There is a large glossary giving pronunciations and translations that seemed very daunting when I first looked at it but realized it was actually perfect.
I can't wait to read book 2 and see what will happen now that they are all on the home world.
Meet Keegan a fae who was born and raised on Earth to hid the fact that he mother and father were from different elemental backgrounds giving her double elemental magic. on earth she hides her powers from the human and knows she would be hunted should she return to the fae lands. As her mother is suddenly becoming sick and no one can find a reason she is trying to come up with the funds for a specialist when she has a crazy but terrible idea which happens to put her in contact with another fae whom is determined to help her and her mother out.
Calder grew up on the home world with his influential family who hid the fact that he had double elements. He now lives on Earth but maintains his connection to the home world where most of his family still resides. However, he finds himself face to face with a stunning fae who is getting herself into some trouble but realizes he can help her by going back to the home world.
The journey these 2 will embark on to save her mother and keep their double elements a secret is absolutely riveting. Also their familiars are such characters.
There is a large glossary giving pronunciations and translations that seemed very daunting when I first looked at it but realized it was actually perfect.
I can't wait to read book 2 and see what will happen now that they are all on the home world.
October 4, 2023
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start by saying I did enjoy this story line and will likely check out the 2nd book, should I get the chance. I'm a sucker for fantasy, especially regarding curses and prophecies and this one had just that. I like how Keegan and Calder's magic plays off one another and what the outcomes can be.
My downfall with this was it took me too long to get into it. Now this isn't necessarily the authors fault. This probably wasn't the genre I needed at the time. Now, the use of Irish terms did throw me off. Especially because I was unable to flip back and forth to the guide on a e-file as easily as I would have in a physical book. This caused me to blindly attempt a pronunciation, which pulled me from the story. I do love the guide at the front though. That's a non story based aspect of books that I adore authors doing.
Overall a good read but hopefully I'll be in the right mindset for book 2.
Let me start by saying I did enjoy this story line and will likely check out the 2nd book, should I get the chance. I'm a sucker for fantasy, especially regarding curses and prophecies and this one had just that. I like how Keegan and Calder's magic plays off one another and what the outcomes can be.
My downfall with this was it took me too long to get into it. Now this isn't necessarily the authors fault. This probably wasn't the genre I needed at the time. Now, the use of Irish terms did throw me off. Especially because I was unable to flip back and forth to the guide on a e-file as easily as I would have in a physical book. This caused me to blindly attempt a pronunciation, which pulled me from the story. I do love the guide at the front though. That's a non story based aspect of books that I adore authors doing.
Overall a good read but hopefully I'll be in the right mindset for book 2.
May 30, 2024
This was my first deep dive into a book about Fae.
I do have some knowledge of Irish Folklore.. but the language was what held me
I was pleasantly surprised by the characters and the storyline. It told a rich story of all the background while being able to really introduce the world of Fae and familiars. The glossary was helpful, but I kept trying to overthink and spent too much time flipping back and forth. Once I was let the pronunciation go, I was able to focus on the story.
The relationships and banter are almost what you would expect in a real life family dynamic.. except the talking animals, which I firmly believe we all need!
Can't wait to dive into book two and see what happens..
I do have some knowledge of Irish Folklore.. but the language was what held me
I was pleasantly surprised by the characters and the storyline. It told a rich story of all the background while being able to really introduce the world of Fae and familiars. The glossary was helpful, but I kept trying to overthink and spent too much time flipping back and forth. Once I was let the pronunciation go, I was able to focus on the story.
The relationships and banter are almost what you would expect in a real life family dynamic.. except the talking animals, which I firmly believe we all need!
Can't wait to dive into book two and see what happens..
January 27, 2024
As someone with Irish ancestry, the premise of this book immediately had me hooked! The world (or worlds, in this case) building was very well done, and I would love to see scenic art of the wood carvings done. The use of the Irish language was kind of a double edged sword, because although I loved the authenticity, sometimes I was slightly taken out of the story due to either flipping back and forth to the glossary or just kind of guessing 😅.
The story itself was really good, and there were many emotions to go through; I laughed out loud, I got angry, I felt for some of the characters. Overall it was a fun book and I'm curious to see what happens next with the characters.
The story itself was really good, and there were many emotions to go through; I laughed out loud, I got angry, I felt for some of the characters. Overall it was a fun book and I'm curious to see what happens next with the characters.
April 26, 2024
Hidden Elements was okay. I think it took some time to get into the book. I didn't love it but I also didn't hate it. I think it got better throughout the book but it didn't hold my interest so it took me a little longer to read than normal. That said I think it has potential and I would be interested in reading book two to give it a chance.
The book beginning of the book has Irish terms with the meaning as well as another language as well.
Trigger Warnings per the author: Attempted SA, Stalking, Spiders, Verbal abuse, emotional abuse, bigotry, fat shaming ,cursing, illness, near drowning
The book beginning of the book has Irish terms with the meaning as well as another language as well.
Trigger Warnings per the author: Attempted SA, Stalking, Spiders, Verbal abuse, emotional abuse, bigotry, fat shaming ,cursing, illness, near drowning
May 29, 2024
Beautifully written
The world that Kilpatrick creates is absolutely stunning and the attention to detail is astounding. All I had to do was read the prologue and the summary and I was immediately hooked. I liked how Kilpatrick incorporates family values into her story, truly inspiring. If you're in a reading slump, you're looking for a quick read or simply enjoy reading fantasy with a little bit of action and surprises at every turn, I highly recommend Hidden Elements. I literally finished this book in a week, I couldn't put it down.
The world that Kilpatrick creates is absolutely stunning and the attention to detail is astounding. All I had to do was read the prologue and the summary and I was immediately hooked. I liked how Kilpatrick incorporates family values into her story, truly inspiring. If you're in a reading slump, you're looking for a quick read or simply enjoy reading fantasy with a little bit of action and surprises at every turn, I highly recommend Hidden Elements. I literally finished this book in a week, I couldn't put it down.
April 1, 2025
This book is a captivating mix of magic, prophecy, and romance with a thrilling twist. The elemental Fae world is richly built, and the forbidden love between Keegan and Calder adds an irresistible layer of tension. With a blend of humor, danger, and unexpected friendships (including a foul-mouthed parrot and a fainting goat!), this story keeps you hooked from start to finish. Perfect for fans of fantasy filled with adventure, mystery, and heartfelt moments.
September 27, 2023
Magical, fun, satisfying. A Story of Elemental Magic , forbidden is the mixing of the elements. A woman hidden on another world, a man hidden in plain sight. A prophecy that turns their own people against them. Two strangers must work together to save themselves and the world they come from. I really enjoyed this book, the setting felt very present day which I loved. The story was well written. I can't wait to see where their magic takes them next.
Thank you to M.A. Kilpatrick for trusting me with your ARC which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Thank you to M.A. Kilpatrick for trusting me with your ARC which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
September 29, 2023
A very enjoyable read! The author has created a very intricate world and is so good at describing all of the details. The familiars are definitely my favourite characters. They seem to have the biggest personalities especially Aine and Lir. I feel like some things were left unanswered so I’m hopeful there will be a sequel!
October 8, 2023
Okayyyyy this is was really good!!! This is my first irish lore inspired fantasy and it exceeded expectations!💚 it was so fun and had elements that were new to me as an avid fantasy reader, the animal characters were just hilarious and i just know the FMC & MMC are going to have a fiery romance!!
Definitely will be waiting for the rest of the series to come out💚
Definitely will be waiting for the rest of the series to come out💚
October 9, 2023
I loved these characters, the familiars, the magic & the world building. It was a fun fantasy read. There was a hidden villain throughout the book which I wish we saw more of but I imagine that will come through in future books of the series. I did enjoy this story and am interested to see how it progresses.
October 11, 2023
I did not know what to expect when I started this book and I am so glad I got to read it.
Such an enjoyable read which is inspired by Irish Lore with elements of elemental magic, romance, familiars, fab world building and characters that you will fall in love with.
I need book 2 to see what is going to happen next.
Such an enjoyable read which is inspired by Irish Lore with elements of elemental magic, romance, familiars, fab world building and characters that you will fall in love with.
I need book 2 to see what is going to happen next.
November 7, 2023
Loved, loved, loved this book!!! So, so, so good.
I enjoyed reading an ARC of this book. The magic system was easy to grasp. The characters were enjoyable and the Irish lore was a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed that there were familiars and a separate world to travel to. I was sad to see the book end. I am hopeful for book 2. I would recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading an ARC of this book. The magic system was easy to grasp. The characters were enjoyable and the Irish lore was a pleasant surprise. I enjoyed that there were familiars and a separate world to travel to. I was sad to see the book end. I am hopeful for book 2. I would recommend this book.
September 30, 2023
I received this book as an ARC, and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
This book was a great concept, but it was so hard to understand. There was like 50 different words and nothing made sense. :-( It’s a shame because I would have really loved to read this, But I couldn’t understand anything 🙃
This book was a great concept, but it was so hard to understand. There was like 50 different words and nothing made sense. :-( It’s a shame because I would have really loved to read this, But I couldn’t understand anything 🙃
May 5, 2024
I am sorry for the 1 star, but this story didn't vibe with me.
So - peeps - even if this book wasn't my jam, it might be yours.
The familiars are super cute, but all the tears, crying and whining, were a bit cringe and immature.
So - peeps - even if this book wasn't my jam, it might be yours.
The familiars are super cute, but all the tears, crying and whining, were a bit cringe and immature.
June 2, 2024
Wow!!
This was such a fun read. The characters were fun, and I loved the fact that there were rock music references and, most of all, the concept of the familiars. My girl Aine was the best and by far the most entertaining. I can't wait to start the second book 😃
This was such a fun read. The characters were fun, and I loved the fact that there were rock music references and, most of all, the concept of the familiars. My girl Aine was the best and by far the most entertaining. I can't wait to start the second book 😃
May 13, 2025
What a fun book! I am ready to start the next one!
October 14, 2025
I love the characters in this story, both the fae and familiars are so well written. The world they're in is so vivid and it sounds beautiful and bright. Very good story!
July 15, 2024
Hidden Elements by M.A. Kilpatrick
This is a fantasy book. I enjoyed it but at first it’s slow. Especially, because you get thrown a lot of information regarding the plot and characters. It takes a bit to adjust to the characters and plot. Once you do the story gets really interesting. We have multiple POVs . Which was one of the main reasons it took me bit to adjust and familiarize myself with the characters and plot. I think that even though it was a slow read for me, it was still worth reading it. It’s a really good story and towards the end it started picking up quickly. I definitely recommend you giving it a try.
This is a fantasy book. I enjoyed it but at first it’s slow. Especially, because you get thrown a lot of information regarding the plot and characters. It takes a bit to adjust to the characters and plot. Once you do the story gets really interesting. We have multiple POVs . Which was one of the main reasons it took me bit to adjust and familiarize myself with the characters and plot. I think that even though it was a slow read for me, it was still worth reading it. It’s a really good story and towards the end it started picking up quickly. I definitely recommend you giving it a try.
March 19, 2024
I really wanted to love this book, it just took to long for me to get into the storyline. I think the world building, magic, and characters were very well written and if it wasn't for all the different words used I think I'd have liked this book more but flipping back to the glossary for the words i forgot the meaning to took away from my reading experience.
Thank you, NetGalley and Merch with Indies for the eARC and giving me the opportunity to read this book for my honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Merch with Indies for the eARC and giving me the opportunity to read this book for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews