I’m surrounded by two hundred thousand elves, yet somehow, I’m still lonely.
After a rough few millennia, the past decade has finally brought us peace and security—and justified my choices as our leader. But as chaos gives way to calm, I have more time for myself… yet it’s not what I want it to be. I’ve been alone for a long time, but before my people and work needed me more. Now the lonely hours stretch into eternity.
Until I meet Jared.
He’s my perfect match in every way; a teacher, a gardener, a cat dad. He loves books, nature, and interacting with others. He’s sweet, funny, kind, and we’re fire in the bedroom. The only hiccup? He’s human, and he doesn’t know other species exist.
Legally, we haven’t been together long enough for me to tell him I’m not human, and it’s getting harder and harder to keep this secret. To keep part of myself from him… to lie. But what if he learns the truth—a truth that will shatter the core of his beliefs—and can’t handle it?
LOUISA MASTERS started reading romance much earlier than her mother thought she should. While other teenagers were sneaking out of the house, Louisa was sneaking romance novels in and working out how to read them without being discovered. She’s spent most of her life feeling sorry for people who don’t read, convinced that books are the solution to every problem. As an adult, she feeds her addiction in every spare second, only occasionally tearing herself away to do things like answer the phone and pay bills. She spent years trying to build a “sensible” career, working in bookstores, recruitment, resource management, administration, and as a travel agent, before finally conceding defeat and devoting herself to the world of romance novels. Louisa has a long list of places first discovered in books that she wants to visit, and every so often she overcomes her loathing of jet lag and takes a trip that charges her imagination. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, where she whines about the weather for most of the year while secretly admitting she’ll probably never move.
It was lovely to be back in the Community of Species Government (CSG) universe, surrounded by all the charming and often hilarious magical beings who make up this now very large and ever-expanding cast of characters.
I feel like I've been waiting quite a while to finally get Elven King Raðulfr's story, after having meet him waaaayyy back in the Hidden Species series and knowing full well he’d be an absolute delight as an MC of his very own story. In that regard, I’m nothing but a satisfied reader here.
I even liked Jared, Raðulfr's human-with-magic love interest. He’s a 40-something kindergarten teacher, who considers himself wiccan, but is as-yet unaware of the existence of the supernatural community living amongst us on Earth.
Their meet-cute was… super cute. As were all there following getting-to-know-you dates, as Jared finds himself increasingly smitten and Raðulfr finds himself falling hard but up against the CSG’s strict rules and regulations relating to human initiations, made more complicated considering Raðulfr's royal nature and position as species leader.
The first half was sweet and meandering, in the nicest of ways, but I knew once the “reveal” came about it was going to go one of two ways for me… and regrettably, I found myself leaning into the second reaction, to my slight disappointment.
I simply don’t enjoy secrets and miscommunication and deception in my reads (anymore), even when it’s all well-meaning, and, in this case, probably on the lighter side of the potential angst-scale. I think my issue in this particular instance, is that I didn’t like how Jared reacted to the news that a supernatural community existed under his nose, and that his new boyfriend was not only one of them but also kind of a big deal at that.
Sure, sure, it’s all understandable and probably a normal reaction to have to such a discovery, but something in the way Jared responded, with the initial anger and following distance (“time to think” that lasted AGES), that just didn’t sit well with me, taking a bit of the shine off an otherwise charming addition to the grander CSG universe.
However, I still very much enjoyed finally getting Raðulfr's story and I had an absolute blast with all the cheeky and hilarious interactions that he and Jared had once some of the previous (and potential future) characters wiggled their way into the story. Those were certainly my highlight moments here, but they were more than enough to deliver me a good time.
READER NOTE: The appeal of an expanding book universe like Louisa Masters has created here is that fans like myself are always going to be pretty damn content simply revisiting beloved characters across stages of their lives and relationships. But it’s also a bit of a detriment to newer readers, because although a book such as this is technically the first in a series, I consider it far from a standalone read, finding it absolutely pivotal to one’s enjoyment and comprehension to have experienced all that came before—in this case, I recommend starting with Demons Do It Better and going from there.
2,5 stars. This book is the first installment in a new series, not marked as spin-off or part of a larger "world", but while reading I discovered that it's set in a world that was built in many earlier books about various couples. I would have liked a heads-up in the blurb about that, since I haven't read any of these books. Nearly every side character is (I'm fairly sure) a main character in some earlier book by the author.
I had read and loved Grave Situation by Louisa Masters. That book had been a standalone with no connection to a already existing world, and I had hoped for a similar reading experience with Wooing the Wiccan.
Not knowing any of the many secondary characters, I didn't enjoy the book as much as I'm sure people do who are already familiar with them.
The story itself felt rather compact when I would have loved more details, more time for the main characters to get close and to navigate their attraction and feelings. To me it felt like the author wanted to cram too much content in a 230 pages novel. Already setting the stage for the next installment with a subplot about another couple took even more on-page-time from our main couple.
As for the world the author built, it was explained without info dumps, that was good, but it was lackluster and flat despite the many different species it hosted. Maybe I felt like that even more so, because the author was overly fixated on the many different side characters, and too often the main characters said something like "oh that's interesting but we'll get into that another time".
This could have been a beautiful 450 pages novel if the author had taken more time and care with the MCs and their story.
I will never not want to read a book set in Louisa Masters' Hidden Species universe, it's one of my all time favourites in the genre.
This one sees our beloved Elven King Raðulfr (sort of pronounced Rowldush or similar!) falling head over pointy ears for a kindergarten teacher called Jared, who he meets at a class being run for humans who can use magic.
Of course, for Jared, he thinks his magic comes through him being Wiccan and his rituals and belief in the Wicca god and goddess, and he also thinks the substitute teacher who's come to help the class is hot as!
After a couple of low key dates, Raðulfr is smitten, Jared's cat Marge is being spoiled by lots of elvish snuggles and the security team is running out of ways to express their concerns without getting it in the neck from their species leader.
But, and here's the sticker, they've not been dating long enough for Raðulfr to tell Jared the truth about who he is, or that there's a whole other world hidden from view right under his nose. You can see the trouble coming from a mile away, right?!
So, when Jared's accidently exposed to the Hidden Species world at an ice hockey game with members of the collective letting loose and hellhound teenagers not able to control their shifts, the proverbial hits the fan.
I loved this book, I loved Raðulfr, he's got the weight of 200,000 elvish lives on his shoulders, it's been thousands of years since his first love was lost to the anomalies on their home planet, he's lonely and seeing all his friends fall in love.
Jared is utterly perfect for him, he's a kind soul, a gentle man, but one who's had to develop a core of steel having been ditched by his family once they knew he was gay. He lives a solitary, but happy, life with his cat and his select friendships he's made through work or his Wiccan beliefs.
While the sexual encounters in this book happen mainly off page or fade to black, a slight disappointment, I won't lie, we do get a small amount of steam but an absolute load of beautiful emotional connection between them.
It's obvious to the reader that they're meant for each other, not just because they suit, but because the lifeforce wants it to be so and it's super sweet seeing how Raðulfr's friends at the CSG and DEA rally round.
Of course that means we get Alistair being Alistair, a snarky meeting with Noah & Andrew and Sam and Gideon teleporting in to help Jared accept that magic's real and other species exist.
It's this blend of humour, magic, family and adventure that's always drawn me to this universe of Louisa's and I don't see that ending any time soon, especially not given who's up next!
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
I enjoyed being back in this story world but this book felt like it wasn't complete?
I really liked that Jared was Wiccan and it was fun seeing his altar's and rituals, and I loved Alistair trying to recruit Jared to the Brohood. Noah was delightful as always and Sam was like a warm hug.
Even though we find out Jared is Wiccan and a kindergarten teacher with a cat, it really did seem that all of the getting to know each other is done off page. We see a couple of their dates but then suddenly there's the big reveal about the community, followed by them taking a two week break and then declaring they love each other?? When did they fall in love?! How long have they been dating because it only felt like two weeks max...
I feel like I was more interested in Eion and Daithi's relationship than Jared and Rad (I have no idea how to type the dudes name on a qwerty keyboard 😂) so I'm looking forward to their book and hopefully there's more on page relationship development.
4.5 Stars Sometimes I just want a story that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. This was one of those times, and just like always, Louisa Masters delivers. Just what I needed.
I cannot explain how excited I was when I found out not only that this universe was getting another series, but also that king Rauðlfr was going to be the first one to get a book! It was up there with the kind of storytelling I've come to expect from Louisa, both heartfelt, funny and entertaining at once. I really enjoyed it
I love love the community of species world and every time I visit I have the best time. Seriously the whole world that Louisa Masters has created is absolutely incredible. Every book is hilarious, magical, and has great emotion. Wooing The Wiccan was no different. I was so excited to get the elf king, Raoulfr’s story he deserved a HEA a much deserved HEA. Jared is his perfect match but he’s human. Humans are not allowed to know about the community of species world. Unless they have been involved with some one who is a hidden Species for quite some time. The king has to hide his real self and lie, which I think takes a toll on both of them not just Jared. They’re both affected emotionally, it’s sad. I love how they navigate everything together and apart. It’s a beautiful story and a fantastic world. Where we run into old friends. ( I would love to be in Alistair’s permanent bro-hood.) I know I keep repeating myself but I just love Louisa’s books and her beautiful storytelling. I just can’t get enough. I definitely recommend Wooing the Wiccan. I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Pros: I loved how considerate they both were, and the witchy rituals were nice. A wholesome love story. Cons: Too many "tell, don't show" moments, low stakes, the dialogue felt forced sometimes. It's a nice one-time read.
low spice, low angst and also kinda boring. I like how the characters meet in a pretty mundane way but both of them were flat and I didn’t like the pace. It was quick up until like 40% and then it fell off for me unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wooing the Wiccan is a warm and magical start to Louisa Masters’ new Elf Magic series. The book is set in the wider Hidden Species universe, and it’s such a lovely read….but it can absolutely be read on its own, even if you're new to the world.
This time, we follow Raðulfr, otherwise known as the Elven King. Despite being a respected leader, Raðulfr finds himself isolated, a bit lonely, and yearning for a deeper connection. That starts to change when he meets Jared, a kind, gentle, but also strong and self-reliant kindergarten teacher who practices Wicca, lives with his cat Marge (Queen Marge, for all of us peasants), and is just beginning to explore his magical side.
At first, they may seem like an unexpected match, one being an ancient elf and the other a human who's only just dipping a toe into magical waters, so to say. But their connection is instant, and the same time full of quiet charm. Raðulfr is immediately taken with Jared, and Jared is drawn to this gentle, if slightly awkward man who seems just as nervous about dating as he is. Their relationship builds slowly but sweetly and meaningfully, with a lot of little moments of warmth and humour. There’s just something very comforting about the way they fit together.
Unlike other books in this universe, the biggest challenge they face isn’t a personality clash or external threat, but the truth. The main conflict stems from the one big secret...Jared doesn’t know that Hidden Species like elves, dragons, and hellhounds actually exist. Raðulfr legally cannot tell him yet, and that secrecy begins to wear on them both. When the truth finally comes out, it’s messy and dramatic, but handled with care and sincerity. Both characters are so very lovable in their own ways, and they feel real and relatable...even if they live smack in the middle of a fantastical world.
It’s also worth mentioning that this isn’t a steamy romance, since most of the intimacy happens off-page. But, like the rest of the books in the Hidden Species universe, the worldbuilding is rich, it’s funny, and really charming. Also, everyone already familiar with the Hidden Species universe will be happy with all the cameos from previous characters.
All in all, whether you’re already a fan of Louisa Masters’ magical world or just stepping into it for the first time, this book is a gentle, comforting love story that’s easy to fall into.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
We are back in the Hidden Species world, baby! The species leader of the Elves, Raðulfr can use some love. He is lonely. Just him, an emotional support lemon tree, boring financial meetings, curious dragons and thousands of Elves.
Jared is a Wiccan and lives with his cat, Marge. Or Marge lives with her human, more accurately said. Jared joins a community program to deepen the connection with his magic. One evening the substitute teacher takes over the class. And uuhh, Raðulfr is kinda hot.
÷÷÷ (Jared) Seeing Raðulfr and Marge instantly take to each other makes my inner self do a little happy dance. I'm not much of a dancer so it's more like an arms flailing-wriggle-and-hip-bump than anything else, but it counts. ÷÷÷
Listen, when you are older, you know what is truly important with dating. These are green flag men. Raðulfr trying to figure out-as centuries old Elf- what an 'x' means at the end of a message, is adorable. As well as trying to plan a perfect date.
÷÷÷ "Hockey it is. That's the one where they're on skates, right?" His comment about ice jogged my sports memory, such as it is. "Yes. And they play with a puck, not a ball. That's important." "Puck, not ball," I repeat. "Got it. Dáithí?" "Hmm?" He's still tapping at his phone. "What's a puck?" "It's a... thing. That they hit. To score. I never really paid that much attention to that part. ÷÷÷
But Raðulfr can't share with Jared who he truly is, because Jared is a human and he doesn’t know other species exist. The law doesn't allow to tell him yet. Can Jared handle the truth that will shatter the core of his beliefs?
Wooing the Wiccan have me warm, fuzzy feelings. It makes me smile. What I love is that the characters are so realistic... and fantastical. That goes together, I swear! They were relatable to me.
There were many cameos with the characters from the other books, which makes me incredibly happy. The Wiccan representation in this book is beautifully, accurately and respectfully done, in my opinion. A nice peek for people who aren't familiar!
The elves getting their HEAs (especially our beloved King) has been a long time coming and this first offering in a new series was totally worth the wait.
Raðulfr and Jared absolutely paired souls as they were very well balanced. I liked the way Jared discovered the community existed. Absolutely hilarious but would definitely be a big shock!
This book had lots of laughs and a good dash of spice as well. The cameos were great and perfectly fit into the story and I loved that everyone’s favourite hellhound is still up to his usual level of silliness. I have been obsessed with this universe since Sam and Gideon stormed on the scene and they’ve had me in a chokehold ever since.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I just absolutely love listening to anything Joel Leslie narrates and he does a wonderful job with Louisa Masters books. I was not totally aware that this particular romance is a spin off of The Hidden Species series. I really will read anything of the author so to say I was surprised and delighted is an understatement. So I didn't get what "wooing the wiccan" was until meeting Jared who is the wiccan and Raðulfr who is the king of the elves. Their romance started out so sweet...then went a bit rocky...then full on sweet again. Everything in between was pure entertainment. From guest characters in past books to that hilarious hockey scene...I had fun with this audio. Love their ending and I can't wait for book 2 in this series.
I was happy to discover that now the elves will get their HEAs - if they are not already partnered up with others from previous books. This series belongs into the Hidden Species Universe and I think you enjoy it the most if you have read the previous books. Beloved characters will make apperances.
After clarifying this - the book was good. It was solid, both main character acted mature and I really enjoyed this a lot. It has humor and felt a bit like visiting an old friend as I really love the whole world. My only problem - and that is definitely a "me"-problem - is that I generally find Wiccan parts in books very often boring and well, it was okay but it's just not my cup of tea. But otherwise, the book is a solid Louisa Masters book and I'm looking forward to more in this series.
It was okay. In the middle there where some chapters, that where just boring, because all the talking logistics. I know it is important to talk, but it was just a bit too much for my mood. I really liked the first half of the book. And the ending was solid too.
I’m so happy the king got his happy ever after!! I listened to hidden species and here be dragons on audio recently and it really helped with the name pronunciation. I will always read these stories bc I love going back into this world!!
3.5, but rounding up. Always such a good time with this universe, which now feels massive. Impressed I was able to remember almost every character that showed up from previous books, lol.
Since his first introduction in the Hidden Species series I was waiting for King Raðulf's story and was so happy to see that it was finally happening, especially since I truly love this universe !! And obviously, Alistair is back with his antics, just so much fun. I loved that Jared that a Wiccan and already had some link to the magic even if he didn’t know the whole truth.
I had so much fun and really poor Raðulf sometimes with his bodyguards and everything related to his rank, not easy to flirt and date in these conditions but since his first time meeting with Jared he cannot stop thinking about him, there is something about this man that calls to him and the magic totally agrees with him. Meanwhile, Jared is totally charmed by Raðulf and hens so happy to have someone who understands magic and knows how to use it even if he’s not a Wiccan. However, some secrets cannot stay secrets for long and let’s say that planning a date with a human while you have no idea how to do it, is not an easy thing to do - especially with some interference ! But as they are made for each other, there shall not be any issue, right ?
Lot of fun I had that is sure, I laughed so hard sometimes and over time was totally swoon by their intimacy and sweetness. Such an amazing and beautiful story !!
I received an ARC Copy of this book from the author, this review is from my own thoughts 😍
It's hard to believe the same author who wrote Grave Situation wrote this book. It's...bland, without much relationship or romance at all. It stands alone since so much of the book recaps what was already written in other books, but interesting it isn't.
I was ecstatic to receive the eARC. It's always comforting to visit the Hidden Species universe.
Good: Chemistry: Jared and Raðulfr are perfect for each other; their chemistry develops naturally as the story progresses. Raðulfr is lonely, and his attraction to Jared brings him happiness, while he helps Jared connect with his magic. Comedy: This writer really knows how to inject humour; I couldn't help but grin and chuckle throughout. Emotional: Despite being low-angst, it's easy to become emotionally attached to the MMCs. Jared had endured his family's homophobia, and King Raðulfr has suffered greatly in the past; these struggles and their perseverance make them ideal for each other. New series in Continued Universe: Cameos from the OGs and introductions to future characters, including Marge, make this a beautiful universe to be a part of.
Bad: Religious Aspect: This may only be an issue for me, but one of the MMC's religion scenes made me feel detached from the story. Again, it might just be me.
All in all, I highly recommend it as a light read.
But this one just was not for me at all. Jared was annoying af and after acting like R was going to physically hurt him when he found out about the community and ghosting him for 2 weeks he just comes back never actually apologizes and is like love you? Like be for reallll. There was no resolution and this 40 year old man was just treated like he was just a poor fragile baby and R took the brunt of his inability to communicate. Only giving 2 star becuase I love this author and have enjoyed the other series I this universe. But this was horrible for me.
Jared & Raðulfr "You never told me you liked hockey." Brandt to Raðulfr in the most ridiculous beginning to a conversation. 😊
I'm not sure what made me restart the Hidden Species series but I'm very glad that I'm now reading it again because there's a lot to remember about the Community and CSG, and having a baseline for that information is helpful when going into this book even though it could theoretically be a standalone. I'm already up to David & Caolan's story, which is the real dive into the elves after we first meet them and get to meet Raðulfr.
Jared is a human exploring his developing Wiccan powers, and meets Raðulfr at a magic-enhancement class run by CSG/DEA (though Jared is as of yet unaware of the Community). They both recognize their instant attraction, and jump right into an initial friendship. Raðulfr knows very quickly that he wants to keep Jared in his life, but knows he's still restricted by the laws of the Community not to share their secret with a human. The story shifts rapidly after Jared is accidentally initiated/introduced, and the whole experience for Jared is a bit overwhelming for a while. It was difficult to see either of these wonderful men struggling, but I loved how the two resolved their issues and differences, and I really loved how accepting and lovingly encouraging Jared is with Raðulfr and his elven features.
Wooing the Wiccan is another incredible story in the extensive Hidden Species universe that we've been gifted from Louisa Masters. I loved diving into more of the elves history, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else we get to learn as the series progresses.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I enjoyed Wooing the Wiccan (Elf Magic Book 1) by Louisa Masters, another new book and series in this author’s multi-series Hidden Species/Community of Species universe.
It was wonderful seeing King Raðulf, the head of the elves who has appeared throughout this universe in many novels, find a new love and get his own HEA, with a human Wiccan elementary schoolteacher, Jared. And his cat.
Equally wonderful? And true highlights? Having hilarious moments with dragonshifter Wing Leader Brandt, his Consort Percy, and their adorable daughter. Also Sam, Alastair, and many other great characters.
If anything, with the main issues and the characters involved, this relationship would have felt more natural and more well developed if , either the book itself had been longer or divided into two parts.
There’s so much that both characters have to immediately deal with, some of which is brushed over quickly here while still noting how deeply the changes impact on their lives and their relationships. Jared is unaware of the fact that otherworldly species exist, including the one he’s involved with.
Raðulfr has the safety of his people, the fact of his being the King with all that entails, and how much of his courtly life will be impacted by his Consort. And the fact that he is human.
Plus they don’t know each other well. They just started talking and dating.
So when Masters narrative begins to speed up once Jared is introduced to the Community of Species and all the other paranormals who exist on earth with the human community and the magic, other elements lose their depth of development and exploration.
How does Jared fit his new life into his old one? We don’t know. Does he change careers? No idea. It’s meeting and quickly developing affection between the two while hiding exactly who and what Raðulfr is. Followed by a huge argument, a shocking revelation, and then another rather quick, for this situation, resolution. And an immediate exchange of “I love you’s”.
Sigh. I was fine right up until that instant love came in. Adult conversation and working through their various issues? Fantastic. But it’s been weeks. Mere weeks.
A two part relationship development, along with further growth of magical abilities and time to explore this new aspect of the magical universe? That would’ve made this a far more interesting and believable journey.
Did I find it entertaining? Yes. It made me want to reread Brandt and Percy’s series once again. It’s a good read and gives the elf King a lovely HEA.
Cover Photo: Wander Aguiar Model: Douglas Cover Design: Booksmith Design
Elf Magic: Wooing the Wiccan #1 Enticing the Elf #2 - Nov 6,2025
Wooing the Wiccan is the first book in Louisa Masters' Elf Magic series.
This series exists within Masters' literary universe of the CSG (Community of Species Government), which includes the series Hidden Species, Here Be Dragons and Demons-In-Law. While I don't think anyone new the CSG needs to read all the previous books, reading the Hidden Species series (only 4 books!) will give anyone sufficient background. Without realising that this book was even coming out, I had enjoyed listening to the audios of these interconnected series on Hoopla and had a wish list in my head of other characters I wanted to get more of - Raðulfr, King of the Elves was one of them, especially after seeing him put up with Brandt and the rest of the overly dramatic dragons and elves.
King Raðulfr, much like the other Community leaders, chafes under the protection of his security. He's happy for the most part, especially since he and his people were able to escape certain death and make a life on Earth amongst other species of paranormal creatures. When he makes an impulse decision to stand in as a trainer for humans that are learning magic, Raðulfr is immediately drawn to Jared. Jared is a Wiccan and is a tender hearted sweetheart. He is a primary/elementary school teacher who loves his job and his students, an avid gardener and is completely devoted to his cat.
I absolutely adored the cameos from favourite such as Alistair, Sam, Percy and Brandt, along with the rest of the quirky cast of characters from the Hidden Species and Here Be Dragons series. Many fans, like me, definitely will appreciate and love the heck out of all the fan service. I just adore the chaos that is routinely caused by the Hellhound Alistair. Raðulfr, as a leader, has no choice but to follow that law, even though that means he can't tell Jared his big secret.
This was a totally sweet and cute book that is very different to other books in this series, where it is primarily a romance with plenty of moving parts. It gave me so many big feels and all of them were good. Previous books have focused on the over arching plots and drama as the characters fought the end of worlds. This is also a wonderful introduction to the world of the elves among the Community.
Ugh, I can't wait to get more of Eoin and Dáithí. We've seen some of their antics in the past, and Dáithí especially has popped up in the background throughout Here Be Dragons.
✎ Wooing The Wiccan is the first book in the 𝙴𝙻𝙵 𝙼𝙰𝙶𝙸𝙲 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 and it was such a lighthearted,fun,witty and relaxing read,it had found family,magic,beautiful species and funny characters and I was introduced to what a 𝚆𝙸𝙲𝙲𝙰𝙽 is,so I learned something new.
✎ Raðulfr is the king of the elves and that has been his life for the longest time,he loves and cares for his people but on most days when he’s not performing his duties,loneliness shrouds him like a blanket and even though he loves his job as a king,he feels he’s missing something or someone who will help drive this lonely feeling away.He was stepping in as a substitute teacher to teach humans magic and that’s where he met this beautiful man who captured his attention.
✎ Jared is a Kindergarten teacher who loves what he does and even though it’s tiring sometimes,his job still brings him joy.He got an email to join a magic learning program,at first he thought it a a scam mail but his friend assured him that it was not,so he decided to give it a try and that’s where he met substitute teacher he couldn’t take is eyes off him and almost tripped over his feet.
✎ Raðulfr and Jared had my heart from their first meeting,the connection and attraction was there from the beginning and they were both aware of their attraction to the other.As they got to know each other and their relationship started developing,their chemistry also grew. Raðulfr was such a green flag,he listens,communicates,he knows when to retreat and when he’s needed and he’s understanding and caring and He loves Jared with everything he’s got and it shows in the way he treats him.
✎I love this Hidden Species Universe Louisa is building,the community,found family,friendships and relationships in this books bring me so much joy,especially when a character I love makes an appearance.🤣
The Hidden Species universe is one of my favourite, and now to be back in it, this time with the elves, is so much fun! Raðulfr, who is basically the lucifer/king of the elves (what Percy was for the paranormal on earth when the universe first began). He's found himself at a bit of a loss, now that life is much more settled for his people after what they have endured. So it is fortuitous that he then meets Jared when he volunteers to oversee a group of humans improving their magic knowledge. However, it's unfortunate that he is not supposed to have any relations with humans who don't know about the supernatural world. I really felt for Raðulfr, you can sense his loneliness now that his time isn't consumed by saving his people. It's a sweet relationship that starts with Jared but it is beset with secrets, given what Raðulfr is unable to share. Jared has gotten to a good place in his life, since living for himself instead of his family and becoming a Wiccan. It really fits with his personality and helps to keep him steady on a daily basis. What follows with Raðulfr is exciting and new until, of course, secrets are revealed. It's not my favourite part, when that happens, even knowing that it's coming but Louisa has yet again written a wonderful romance that has two MC's who are in need of that companionship and love. It's not a high angst story but the secrecy soon comes to bite Raðulfr in the butt, though he does have some great support from his friends, and even some strangers on a stress-filled date night to a hockey game. Another great story and start to the series from Louisa. We also get cameos from Brandt, Sam and Gideon, who are all as entertaining as ever. I can't wait for the next one! I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Jared and Raoulfr's romance had a calming, gentle energy that matched both men's personalities wonderfully. I really enjoyed the themes of connecting with nature, embracing harmony, and accepting those around you. As species leader for the elves, Raoulfr was well respected in the community, but even surrounded by so many he was lonely and looking for deeper connections. A human kindergarten teacher who was barely dipping his toes into magic may not have been the expected choice, but Jared was Raoulfr's match in every way. The two of them connected easily, and their relationship felt like a warm blanket of comfort on a winter's night. I loved seeing how happy they made each other, and the only obstacle in their path was the uncertainty of how to tell Jared about the existence of other species on Earth. The reveal and its aftermath ended up being the biggest conflict in this book, because for all of Raoulfr's good intentions it wasn't executed in the smoothest way. I had faith that Jared would come around with time, and in the interim I learned so much about the history of the different species and how different Earth beliefs were adapted from them. This book featured cameos from several of the characters in the rest of the interconnected series, and it was really fun to see how their lives have developed since the last time we got to see them. In the end, Jared and Raoulfr's love was strong enough to weather the ups and downs, and with all their secrets out in the open I know they're in the best position possible to continue their happy relationship.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
"Wooing the wiccan" is the first book in the series but it is set in the "hidden species" universe ". You can still read it as a standalone because the author recaps beautifully all the important plotlines from the other series. I loved being back in this world. The author has created a really interesting magic system and lore. All the different supernatural species have their own culture and I just adore spending time with them. In this book our main characters are Raðulfr, the king of the elves and Jared, a human who is a wiccan and doesn't know about the supernatural world. Raðulfr has to keep his identity a secret and this causes some misunderstandings but of course love always finds a way. Raðulfr and Jared were truly meant to be. They really complimented each other and had excellent chemistry. I loved following their journey. They were both so lonely and deserved all the happiness, I was rooting for them from the beginning. What I really really enjoyed in this book was seeing Jared discover this new world, learn more about practicing magic and of course meeting some of the beloved characters from the previous books. All the cameos were brilliant but Alistair's was the best. Alistair wins. One of my favorite scenes was the hockey game and that's all I'm going to say because I don't want to spoil anything. I also enjoyed reading the conversations about religion and faith. I felt for Jared. And I can't wait to read Owen and Dáithí’s story. I loved their interactions in "Wooing the wiccan". Fantastic start to the series, I'm really looking forward to read more!