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The Kriegspiel Witches #2
The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel
She thought she could trust him. Then he forced her to marry him—and he won’t even tell her why…
Ana didn’t want any part of the long-standing tradition of priests marrying untamed witches. David, a provost at the legendary University of Kriegspiel, was supposed to be her unlikely ally. Her friend. Then for reasons he concealed, he trapped her at the altar. Shrouded in mystery, their arranged marriage will pull Ana down a dark path of discovery.
Now enemies, Ana must gain David’s permission to become the first witch student at the esteemed university. David makes efforts to win his wife’s affection, but Ana has a few surprises of her own. Can enemies become lovers, or are the secrets that separate them too great?
Content Warning: This book is naughty. The steam is plentiful and consensual. True to life, some foul language is used. Secret Witch is written as a standalone fantasy romance set in a magical Gaslamp/Victorian setting, featuring forced proximity, arranged marriage, mature characters, and a grumpy/sunshine trope. It shares a universe with the Street Witch Series and can be read in any order.
Ana didn’t want any part of the long-standing tradition of priests marrying untamed witches. David, a provost at the legendary University of Kriegspiel, was supposed to be her unlikely ally. Her friend. Then for reasons he concealed, he trapped her at the altar. Shrouded in mystery, their arranged marriage will pull Ana down a dark path of discovery.
Now enemies, Ana must gain David’s permission to become the first witch student at the esteemed university. David makes efforts to win his wife’s affection, but Ana has a few surprises of her own. Can enemies become lovers, or are the secrets that separate them too great?
Content Warning: This book is naughty. The steam is plentiful and consensual. True to life, some foul language is used. Secret Witch is written as a standalone fantasy romance set in a magical Gaslamp/Victorian setting, featuring forced proximity, arranged marriage, mature characters, and a grumpy/sunshine trope. It shares a universe with the Street Witch Series and can be read in any order.
260 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2021
33 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Prater
21 books336 followersS. L. shares her home with three wild little girls and a husband so handsome he makes everyone else look like a potato. In no particular order, she fills her time reading fiction, eating tacos, and serving her community as a child welfare social worker. At night she writes magical kissing books. Sign up for her newsletter at: https://slprater.carrd.co/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 10, 2022
Fox & Wit adult pick for May 2022!
In spite of a host of serious themes, this book was incredibly charming. Ana and David go from friends, to enemies, to friends again, and finally to lovers.
Ana begins the book rightfully incensed at David - in their patriarchal society, priests like David are expected to marry and control high-spirited witches like Ana, with the witch having very little say in the matter. She trusted him as a friend, but family pressure and his own feelings for her persuaded him to tie the knot - even against her will. Ana eventually forgives him when she understands his reasoning…which I felt was a little unrealistic? But it’s obvious that mutual feelings were involved from the start.
The story also tackles academic sexism/racism, bullying, and infertility issues. Despite sounding really heavy, the banter and steamy scenes balance the story out nicely. I almost rated five stars, except that I felt a little lost with the worldbuilding. Apparently this is book 2 in a loosely connected series? Maybe there’s more (desperately needed) background info on witches/priests/etc in book 1. Will definitely check the rest of the series out because I really enjoyed this.
In spite of a host of serious themes, this book was incredibly charming. Ana and David go from friends, to enemies, to friends again, and finally to lovers.
Ana begins the book rightfully incensed at David - in their patriarchal society, priests like David are expected to marry and control high-spirited witches like Ana, with the witch having very little say in the matter. She trusted him as a friend, but family pressure and his own feelings for her persuaded him to tie the knot - even against her will. Ana eventually forgives him when she understands his reasoning…which I felt was a little unrealistic? But it’s obvious that mutual feelings were involved from the start.
The story also tackles academic sexism/racism, bullying, and infertility issues. Despite sounding really heavy, the banter and steamy scenes balance the story out nicely. I almost rated five stars, except that I felt a little lost with the worldbuilding. Apparently this is book 2 in a loosely connected series? Maybe there’s more (desperately needed) background info on witches/priests/etc in book 1. Will definitely check the rest of the series out because I really enjoyed this.
December 29, 2021
This is our first visit to the fantasy world that contains Stejin and Loreley, with magic users including priests and witches - but it won't be our last! Ana and David are trapped in an unwanted marriage. Or at least, Ana is trapped - it appears that David could find another wife quite easily, but doesn't seem to be looking. Stejin is a patriarchal, misogynistic land where Ana's magic and way of interacting with the world aren't appreciated. David has all of the power in the relationship, and Ana feels betrayed by what she sees as his deception to trick her into marriage.
Each chapter begins with a brief missive from their epistolary courtship, giving the reader insight into their previous relationship and Ana's feelings of betrayal. The gradual understanding between the two of them is very fun to read. The fantasy world building is also a cut above the usual fantasy romances, at least in our opinion. Now it's time to look for the first in the series!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Each chapter begins with a brief missive from their epistolary courtship, giving the reader insight into their previous relationship and Ana's feelings of betrayal. The gradual understanding between the two of them is very fun to read. The fantasy world building is also a cut above the usual fantasy romances, at least in our opinion. Now it's time to look for the first in the series!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
January 11, 2022
The romance was on point, sweet with just the right amount of angst. The plot kept me interested throughout the book. The drive and determination Ana shows in order to achieve her dreams was commendable. Her husband was absolutely swoony with his broody personality and protectiveness. My only issue was that I didn’t know this was book 2 and I felt loss with some characters I assume we met in book 1. The magic was interesting, and I wished the author explored it a bit more. Overall, it was an enjoyable quick read!
I received an adavnace review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an adavnace review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 6, 2022
I love trigger warnings. Okay, that didn’t sound good - I love when authors are invested in providing their readers with the best experience when sharing their work. I’ve never turned away a book due to what is outlined in the TW disclaimer; it just means I can better prepare myself for descriptions or plot points that may invoke distressing memories. That being said, if you can add a little levity to your disclaimer, I may fall in instalove with you. The first line of S.L. Prater’s “The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel” was one such book.
Precise and to the point while also being a little bit cheeky. This chutzpah carries throughout the novel - Brava, S.L.
I found this novel absolutely delightful and, in fact, a bit naughty.
Additionally, this must be the year in which all of my kinks come to fruition - with this series, a certain other priestly erotica novel, and Midnight Mass, I think priests are up there for me with Sebastian Stan and Rege-Jean Page reenacting any scene from Secretary. But not like Da Vinci Code priests..blech…not the spanking I’m looking for.
A Little Bit of Plot
We have a friends/enemies to lovers, epistolary, steampunk, Victorian era, fantasy, romance: this was exactly the book I didn’t know I was looking for. The world in which we meet David and Ana, natural magic exists and priests can not only marry but are encouraged to collect wives. Ana, having been ‘paired’ to David against her will, holds a deep seated loathing of her husband. We learn through letters exchanged throughout the year prior to their wedding, David promised to release Ana from the betrothal and ensure that they would not be paired. We meet the couple during their less than harmonious newlywed stage, determining this was not the case. David refuses to divulge what altered his opinion on the pairing and why he is determined to reestablish his friendship with his wife.
As provost of the all male priestly college, Kriegspiel, David bargains intimacy with Ana in return for allowing her to attend classes. As the only female student, Ana must not only stay in topform academically but stay on alert physically as danger lurks around every corner. All the while, protecting herself and her heart.
The Compliment Sandwich
The Top Bun (The Pro)
The Pacing
The easy manner in which we enter the world of the novel is quite remarkable. Unlike a lot of fantasy novels, we don’t experience that first chapter exposition dump. While this is second novel in the series, I didn’t find myself lost or befuddled by any particular subset of the world. For instance, here is how Prater describes the different aspects of magic:
Now maybe it’s because I grew up Catholic and I can draw parallels between religious rites of differing sects that I find this easy to comprehend. Honestly, I find it to be very accessible. I will also state that I ended up reading the books out of order (because of course I did) and I naturally made more connections with the first book in the series, The Wicked Witch of Kriegspiel. The magic doesn’t make you feel like an outsider though; while it generally intrigued me, I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t have all the answers immediately.
The novel moves at quite a quick clip. The general plot occurs within a few months' time, but once Ana begins to attend classes, the action ratchets up. Similarly, the first book in the series is also quite quickly paced. Additionally, Prater utilizes their epistolary exchanges to parallel the progression in plot. For example, in one of the more intimate scenes in the book, we are privy to a letter that David pens, yet never sends and it provides even more depth to what the characters are experiencing at that moment. The letters definitely showcased an affection that was developing between the two, much to Ana's despair, and they paralleled the rebuilding of their tenuous relationship
The Meat (The Con)
I want to know more about the world and the magics. I’d like to know the extent of what witches can in fact wield. To me, being able to wield natural magics and perform what an all healing ‘witches kiss’ should allow the females in this society more power.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
Multi-faceted Lead Characters
In both Kriegspiel novels that I read, the heroes were closeted feminists. Both made decisions and exerted their power not to control the heroines, but to allow them to grow in a safe environment. The heroines themselves were strong willed, intelligent, and illustrated courage in the face of misogyny. Ana, in particular, faces a number of instances in which she must either defend herself physically or stand up for her ‘witchly’ beliefs. David performs a Grand Gesture (GG) that had me falling in love with him; however, the situation itself is frustrating as the misogyny is so overwhelming.
Both David and Ana are also quite witty. Ana is constantly threatening David with some sort of darkly sordid harm: “had you tried to come into my room, I would have run you through with a sharpened broomstick - then an unsharpened one.” Ana also loves both her middle finger and the f-word. David laments Ana’s usage of it is never in the manner he wants to hear: “you’re always throwing the word ‘fuck’ at me, but never in the way I want, and as far as I’m concerned, witch and wanton are synonymous”. The bickering between the characters is charged with sexuality. The reader is treated to a few spankings as promised in the trigger warning description and they are as sexy as hell.
Needless to say both of these things happen, and you’ll need a glass of ice water, or a cold shower, or both to recover.
If you are looking for a nice, light, romance with fantasy and steampunk elements thrown in, I wholeheartedly recommend the Witches of Kriegspiel series. Prater has another series in this same world that I will be seeking out. Lastly, the covers of the Kriegspiel books are absolutely gorgeous, so definitely a paperback 'must buy' for you collectors.
Read more reviews and find out more about our podcast at Chick Lit Book Club Podcast
This book is naughty. It contains adult content, some foul lanugage, sensual dialogue, mild spanking, and numerous sexually explicit scenes between consenting characters.
Precise and to the point while also being a little bit cheeky. This chutzpah carries throughout the novel - Brava, S.L.
I found this novel absolutely delightful and, in fact, a bit naughty.
Additionally, this must be the year in which all of my kinks come to fruition - with this series, a certain other priestly erotica novel, and Midnight Mass, I think priests are up there for me with Sebastian Stan and Rege-Jean Page reenacting any scene from Secretary. But not like Da Vinci Code priests..blech…not the spanking I’m looking for.
A Little Bit of Plot
We have a friends/enemies to lovers, epistolary, steampunk, Victorian era, fantasy, romance: this was exactly the book I didn’t know I was looking for. The world in which we meet David and Ana, natural magic exists and priests can not only marry but are encouraged to collect wives. Ana, having been ‘paired’ to David against her will, holds a deep seated loathing of her husband. We learn through letters exchanged throughout the year prior to their wedding, David promised to release Ana from the betrothal and ensure that they would not be paired. We meet the couple during their less than harmonious newlywed stage, determining this was not the case. David refuses to divulge what altered his opinion on the pairing and why he is determined to reestablish his friendship with his wife.
As provost of the all male priestly college, Kriegspiel, David bargains intimacy with Ana in return for allowing her to attend classes. As the only female student, Ana must not only stay in topform academically but stay on alert physically as danger lurks around every corner. All the while, protecting herself and her heart.
The Compliment Sandwich
The Top Bun (The Pro)
The Pacing
The easy manner in which we enter the world of the novel is quite remarkable. Unlike a lot of fantasy novels, we don’t experience that first chapter exposition dump. While this is second novel in the series, I didn’t find myself lost or befuddled by any particular subset of the world. For instance, here is how Prater describes the different aspects of magic:
Like witches, priests were capable of using their magics, but men of the Church of the Cloth rebuked the natural essence, which was more powerful and more unpredictable, for a gentler spiritual magic achieved through rites and strict prayers.
Now maybe it’s because I grew up Catholic and I can draw parallels between religious rites of differing sects that I find this easy to comprehend. Honestly, I find it to be very accessible. I will also state that I ended up reading the books out of order (because of course I did) and I naturally made more connections with the first book in the series, The Wicked Witch of Kriegspiel. The magic doesn’t make you feel like an outsider though; while it generally intrigued me, I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t have all the answers immediately.
The novel moves at quite a quick clip. The general plot occurs within a few months' time, but once Ana begins to attend classes, the action ratchets up. Similarly, the first book in the series is also quite quickly paced. Additionally, Prater utilizes their epistolary exchanges to parallel the progression in plot. For example, in one of the more intimate scenes in the book, we are privy to a letter that David pens, yet never sends and it provides even more depth to what the characters are experiencing at that moment. The letters definitely showcased an affection that was developing between the two, much to Ana's despair, and they paralleled the rebuilding of their tenuous relationship
The Meat (The Con)
I want to know more about the world and the magics. I’d like to know the extent of what witches can in fact wield. To me, being able to wield natural magics and perform what an all healing ‘witches kiss’ should allow the females in this society more power.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
Multi-faceted Lead Characters
In both Kriegspiel novels that I read, the heroes were closeted feminists. Both made decisions and exerted their power not to control the heroines, but to allow them to grow in a safe environment. The heroines themselves were strong willed, intelligent, and illustrated courage in the face of misogyny. Ana, in particular, faces a number of instances in which she must either defend herself physically or stand up for her ‘witchly’ beliefs. David performs a Grand Gesture (GG) that had me falling in love with him; however, the situation itself is frustrating as the misogyny is so overwhelming.
“I want a chance to beat them. To win one for witches everywhere.” She kissed him again briskly…
“Goddamn it…I’ll let you beat them Hannah,” he said softly. “I’ll let you win”.
…
“Whatever I feel about it,” he said with a resigned breath, “you should know, a small part of me also admires you for all of this”.
Both David and Ana are also quite witty. Ana is constantly threatening David with some sort of darkly sordid harm: “had you tried to come into my room, I would have run you through with a sharpened broomstick - then an unsharpened one.” Ana also loves both her middle finger and the f-word. David laments Ana’s usage of it is never in the manner he wants to hear: “you’re always throwing the word ‘fuck’ at me, but never in the way I want, and as far as I’m concerned, witch and wanton are synonymous”. The bickering between the characters is charged with sexuality. The reader is treated to a few spankings as promised in the trigger warning description and they are as sexy as hell.
“I should turn your ass pink, then kiss away the sting of it.”
“Because it makes your cock hard or as a punishment?”
“Darling, I've been hard since the moment you stomped naked into my office”...”I want to warm your ass because I know it’ll make you loud. Then it’ll make us come.”
Needless to say both of these things happen, and you’ll need a glass of ice water, or a cold shower, or both to recover.
If you are looking for a nice, light, romance with fantasy and steampunk elements thrown in, I wholeheartedly recommend the Witches of Kriegspiel series. Prater has another series in this same world that I will be seeking out. Lastly, the covers of the Kriegspiel books are absolutely gorgeous, so definitely a paperback 'must buy' for you collectors.
Read more reviews and find out more about our podcast at Chick Lit Book Club Podcast
January 21, 2022
Oh my gosh I loved this book!
This book truly excels in the romance and character department. I loved that this was friends to enemies to friends to lovers. The banter between them was delightful! I always complain that romance books often lack dialogue so I was pleasantly surprised that a good chunk of their relationship is in epistolary. Their letters to one another were so much fun to read.
The steam in this book is pretty good and there’s a good bit of it.
Both Ana and David are fabulous characters.
But here’s my gripe. I wish a good deal more was spent on explaining the world and magic? My understanding before coming to this book is that witches are people who have magic and practice said magic. But I’m completely confounded that Ana is considered a witch because she has magic but David and several others have magic but aren’t witches? Are witches only women who have magic but men who have magic aren’t? Why are witches targeted in this book and men with working powers aren’t? (Which I suppose is the point? Misogyny and all) And how do they even spot a witch from appearance alone? I just found myself completely confused the entire time because none of it was properly explained. When I’m reading a fantasy romance I want the fantasy aspect and its accompanying world to make sense. I just had so many QUESTIONS.
But overall for character and romance in this was great. I wish the plot were a bit stronger since the plot is basically about a witch who isn’t accepted in society and her university but because it’s unclear the boundaries of “what is a witch and how do they differ from other magic wielders” (other than biological sex?) it was a bit weak for me. I THINK it boiled down to suppression use of said natural magics and how one practices it?
But I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a yummy steamy romance with amazing characters.
This book truly excels in the romance and character department. I loved that this was friends to enemies to friends to lovers. The banter between them was delightful! I always complain that romance books often lack dialogue so I was pleasantly surprised that a good chunk of their relationship is in epistolary. Their letters to one another were so much fun to read.
The steam in this book is pretty good and there’s a good bit of it.
Both Ana and David are fabulous characters.
But here’s my gripe. I wish a good deal more was spent on explaining the world and magic? My understanding before coming to this book is that witches are people who have magic and practice said magic. But I’m completely confounded that Ana is considered a witch because she has magic but David and several others have magic but aren’t witches? Are witches only women who have magic but men who have magic aren’t? Why are witches targeted in this book and men with working powers aren’t? (Which I suppose is the point? Misogyny and all) And how do they even spot a witch from appearance alone? I just found myself completely confused the entire time because none of it was properly explained. When I’m reading a fantasy romance I want the fantasy aspect and its accompanying world to make sense. I just had so many QUESTIONS.
But overall for character and romance in this was great. I wish the plot were a bit stronger since the plot is basically about a witch who isn’t accepted in society and her university but because it’s unclear the boundaries of “what is a witch and how do they differ from other magic wielders” (other than biological sex?) it was a bit weak for me. I THINK it boiled down to suppression use of said natural magics and how one practices it?
But I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a yummy steamy romance with amazing characters.
June 26, 2022
Fox & Wit’s Adult May 2022 pick! My this was steamy! I honestly had no idea what I was walking into but I instantly fell in love with the characters and world Prater has created. And woooh! Can we talk about the steam this book has! Just enough of a slow build and plenty of fantastic scenes to make the mouth water. Honestly this was fantastic, I see myself reading it again. It would make for an excellent beachside read.
January 14, 2022
“She could have that again. A taste. For Science" 😏
That's what this book felt like, my second taste of a gaslamp romance.
For Science 🥵!
And now I need the books of Vela Roth and specially of Colleen Cowley!
👶 ~ felt more adult than NA
🌶 ~ "Mr. Hadley ... The only thing I'd rather do more than read about an excellent orgasm is to have one myself." I'm making Ana's words mine.
⚔ ~ Ana, dear, you cannot ask David Hadley not to marry you and write him about orgasms! No wonder we start the book knowing he trapped you in a marriage of convenience! He is a smart man!
But our Ana is a witch and in S. L Prater's world that means a free spirit with a strong dislike for corsets, shoes, long skirts and being stuck in the house. Exactly what David gives her.
After the betrayal/marriage, Ana tries to find excitement in her new life by going back to university. She will be the only witch among thirsty priests 😱. But David will do anything to protect and gain her affection 😏
👑 ~ I love the witches in this world. Just want to take my shoes and run in the dirt! Ana is so perseverant and smart! Except when it comes to David... 😏
David is a mystery and a writer, a special one🤣
🌎 ~ Welcome to a Victorian gaslamp world! Where priests believe they have the right to control the free spirited witches (mind, soul and body 🥵).
📖 ~ I love S. L Prater writing. It takes you form a modern word to the Victorian era. Each book focuses in a different couple 😎 HEA for all!
The references to other three fantasy romance writers were hilarious! Specially the reference to Lisette Marshall!
Check Vela Roth, Colleen Cowley and Lisette Marshall work!
Lows ~ Only 244 pages of banter!!!
That's what this book felt like, my second taste of a gaslamp romance.
For Science 🥵!
And now I need the books of Vela Roth and specially of Colleen Cowley!
👶 ~ felt more adult than NA
🌶 ~ "Mr. Hadley ... The only thing I'd rather do more than read about an excellent orgasm is to have one myself." I'm making Ana's words mine.
⚔ ~ Ana, dear, you cannot ask David Hadley not to marry you and write him about orgasms! No wonder we start the book knowing he trapped you in a marriage of convenience! He is a smart man!
But our Ana is a witch and in S. L Prater's world that means a free spirit with a strong dislike for corsets, shoes, long skirts and being stuck in the house. Exactly what David gives her.
After the betrayal/marriage, Ana tries to find excitement in her new life by going back to university. She will be the only witch among thirsty priests 😱. But David will do anything to protect and gain her affection 😏
👑 ~ I love the witches in this world. Just want to take my shoes and run in the dirt! Ana is so perseverant and smart! Except when it comes to David... 😏
David is a mystery and a writer, a special one🤣
🌎 ~ Welcome to a Victorian gaslamp world! Where priests believe they have the right to control the free spirited witches (mind, soul and body 🥵).
📖 ~ I love S. L Prater writing. It takes you form a modern word to the Victorian era. Each book focuses in a different couple 😎 HEA for all!
The references to other three fantasy romance writers were hilarious! Specially the reference to Lisette Marshall!
Check Vela Roth, Colleen Cowley and Lisette Marshall work!
Lows ~ Only 244 pages of banter!!!
June 3, 2022
A wonderful second installment! A witch married against her will and a priest determined to make her fall in love with him. I was not expecting the secret that she kept until near the end of the book, but I enjoyed how their magics expressed themselves and interacted ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
February 12, 2023
What an incredibly fun read from start to finish!!
January 3, 2022
This was a great book and I enjoyed reading it.
December 28, 2021
Thank you BookSirens and S.L. Prater for the ARC.
I do love to find these book gems when I'm searching thought Goodreads, in this case I found it in the suggestions on BookSirens and it did not disappoint people!
This is as adult fiction (it has steamy scenes, and very good ones indeed!), and follows a witch named Ana (or Hannah) and a priest/scholar named David. In the beginning it seems that both are trapped in a loveless marriage arranged by their parents, but quickly we understand, mainly thought David, that that’s not the case.
Besides the very steamy, full of heavy arguments relationship, we have a strong female protagonist, Ana, who tries and endures all she can to have an education in literature, so she can be a teacher herself. But she is a witch and things do not go well for witches in a world full of frustrated and, in the end, powerless man. This was one of the aspects I liked most about the book, the representation of female oppression and minorities wronged by people without heart or empathy. This theme also extends to other witches and also to David's mother, who I would like to know more about.
We also have a very interesting world of witches and a very distinct colored magic (that only some could see, Ana in this casa), I really wanted more of it, I wanted David to be more, I was rooting for it. I was hoping that his dark colored magic meant something more. But well that was not the case, but it did have the potential, and if the author explored this and/or extended the fantasy witchy world I’m up for it.
So if you like strong witches (male and female), enemies to lovers trope, one bed trope (oh yes!), magic and steamy scenes you need to read this one.
I do love to find these book gems when I'm searching thought Goodreads, in this case I found it in the suggestions on BookSirens and it did not disappoint people!
This is as adult fiction (it has steamy scenes, and very good ones indeed!), and follows a witch named Ana (or Hannah) and a priest/scholar named David. In the beginning it seems that both are trapped in a loveless marriage arranged by their parents, but quickly we understand, mainly thought David, that that’s not the case.
Besides the very steamy, full of heavy arguments relationship, we have a strong female protagonist, Ana, who tries and endures all she can to have an education in literature, so she can be a teacher herself. But she is a witch and things do not go well for witches in a world full of frustrated and, in the end, powerless man. This was one of the aspects I liked most about the book, the representation of female oppression and minorities wronged by people without heart or empathy. This theme also extends to other witches and also to David's mother, who I would like to know more about.
We also have a very interesting world of witches and a very distinct colored magic (that only some could see, Ana in this casa), I really wanted more of it, I wanted David to be more, I was rooting for it. I was hoping that his dark colored magic meant something more. But well that was not the case, but it did have the potential, and if the author explored this and/or extended the fantasy witchy world I’m up for it.
So if you like strong witches (male and female), enemies to lovers trope, one bed trope (oh yes!), magic and steamy scenes you need to read this one.
June 22, 2022
Ana has been forced to marry David Hadley, a priest and proctor at Kriegspiel University. The verbal back and forth between Ana and David is laughing out loud funny, makes it difficult to put the book down. This book and series is really an extension of the Street Witch series, Erin and Ren of that series return. Note. despite the humorous moments, this book is much darker than the Street Witch series, or even the first book in this series, Wicked Witch of Kriegspiel. Still, it is a very good read, and I enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Widowed Witch of Kriegspiel.
December 30, 2021
Epistolary, arranged marriage, gaslamp, Victorian, grumpy/sunshine???? Yes please and thank you. Thanks to BookSirens and S.L. Prater for an ARC!
This was such a lovely book. I could not put it down! This is one of a few books this year that has genuinely swept me up in the story so vividly, that I felt like I was watching a movie. The steampunk elements, the magic, the historical setting all gave this book such a romantic feel that I loved! Once I realized it also had academia elements, I freaked. That’s my favorite. The writing is beautiful and the descriptions are so vivid I felt like I was there! The magic system was super cool too. I loved the idea of the witches and the priests! Such a unique, cool concept.
David and Ana, the H and h, were so swoon worthy. I was rooting for their marriage from the start. Their chemistry was so good and so believable. Ana’s confusion and frustration was so palpable. David’s pining for his wife was just the perfect drop of added angst and I gobbled it up. I love seeing MCs navigate a marriage that isn’t a traditional love match. It’s one of my favorite tropes. But the letters they write to each other?? Oh my god y’all. I adored it! This was also steamier than I expected, which I LOVED. The spicy scenes were well written, believable, and so delicious.
This was just such a perfect blend of the things I love the most in books: witches, magic, swoon worthy hero, sharp, witty heroine, historical setting, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, and some seriously good steam! So glad this was the read I closed 2021 out on. And it’s a series! Highly recommend!
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a lovely book. I could not put it down! This is one of a few books this year that has genuinely swept me up in the story so vividly, that I felt like I was watching a movie. The steampunk elements, the magic, the historical setting all gave this book such a romantic feel that I loved! Once I realized it also had academia elements, I freaked. That’s my favorite. The writing is beautiful and the descriptions are so vivid I felt like I was there! The magic system was super cool too. I loved the idea of the witches and the priests! Such a unique, cool concept.
David and Ana, the H and h, were so swoon worthy. I was rooting for their marriage from the start. Their chemistry was so good and so believable. Ana’s confusion and frustration was so palpable. David’s pining for his wife was just the perfect drop of added angst and I gobbled it up. I love seeing MCs navigate a marriage that isn’t a traditional love match. It’s one of my favorite tropes. But the letters they write to each other?? Oh my god y’all. I adored it! This was also steamier than I expected, which I LOVED. The spicy scenes were well written, believable, and so delicious.
This was just such a perfect blend of the things I love the most in books: witches, magic, swoon worthy hero, sharp, witty heroine, historical setting, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, and some seriously good steam! So glad this was the read I closed 2021 out on. And it’s a series! Highly recommend!
I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2022
The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel by S.L. Prater
The Kriegspiel Witches #2
Witchy and wonderful ~ Could not put this book down! Great story and I wonder now why I have never heard of or read anything by this author before!
What I liked:
* Ana: a witch paired with a priest, taken from her island home to cold mountains, feels betrayed, angry, has a secret of her own, fights her attraction to her husband, strong, smart, and a whole lot of fun.
* David: a priest paired with a witch, difficult childhood with difficult parents, intriguing intelligent man, wise, patient, skilled in more than one arena, a man I found to be a GREAT book boyfriend
* The letters between the couple before they were paired
* The way the two grew closer over the story
* The “magics” and how they varied in people
* The “magics” of Ana and David and how they acted and reacted with one another
* The supporting characters, domestic help, and witches met in the story
* The Kriegspiel setting with a bit of steampunk feel at times
* The warmth that developed between the main lead characters
* That David finally stood up to his father
* Boar – Ana’s dog
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* The people and events I was meant not to like
* Having missed the first book in the series and wondering what I missed
* Not a dislike…but a wish…that at least one of the secrets revealed could have been other than it was
Did I like this book? Yes!
Would I read more in this series! Definitely!
Thank you to Book Sirens LLC and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
The Kriegspiel Witches #2
Witchy and wonderful ~ Could not put this book down! Great story and I wonder now why I have never heard of or read anything by this author before!
What I liked:
* Ana: a witch paired with a priest, taken from her island home to cold mountains, feels betrayed, angry, has a secret of her own, fights her attraction to her husband, strong, smart, and a whole lot of fun.
* David: a priest paired with a witch, difficult childhood with difficult parents, intriguing intelligent man, wise, patient, skilled in more than one arena, a man I found to be a GREAT book boyfriend
* The letters between the couple before they were paired
* The way the two grew closer over the story
* The “magics” and how they varied in people
* The “magics” of Ana and David and how they acted and reacted with one another
* The supporting characters, domestic help, and witches met in the story
* The Kriegspiel setting with a bit of steampunk feel at times
* The warmth that developed between the main lead characters
* That David finally stood up to his father
* Boar – Ana’s dog
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* The people and events I was meant not to like
* Having missed the first book in the series and wondering what I missed
* Not a dislike…but a wish…that at least one of the secrets revealed could have been other than it was
Did I like this book? Yes!
Would I read more in this series! Definitely!
Thank you to Book Sirens LLC and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
December 20, 2021
This was truly a very good novel.
This book mostly follows the main characters Ana (Hannah) and David. In the beginning it seems that they are both trapped in a loveless mariage arranged by their parents. A part of that is true, but both are unaware of their true feelings towards eachother.
During the story their relationship develops and goes from heavy arguments to steamy lovemaking.
The book has a slow burn and the tension builds up. But slowly and gradually both reveal their true feelings to eachother.
What I loved about the story is that both MC's are very likeable and funny. Both are strong characters but their motives are genuine. Both are writers and they can express themselves better on paper than verbally. I loved the fact that both MC's are exchanging secrets in return for certain favors. Some of these secrets were really funny and surprising.
The book focusses mainly on the romance between both MC's. But there are also other important topics/sub-plots like the fight for witches to be allowed to attend university and being accepted in David's culture. The unhappy marriage between David's parents is also discussed. This gives the readers a lot of insight in David's character and motives.
This book is a must read for everyone who likes feisty witches, a sexy and handsome scholar, enemies to lovers trope, magic and very steamy love-making.
Due to the sexual content and mentioning of abuse I would rate this book 18+.
I can't wait for more books of this amazing author!
This book mostly follows the main characters Ana (Hannah) and David. In the beginning it seems that they are both trapped in a loveless mariage arranged by their parents. A part of that is true, but both are unaware of their true feelings towards eachother.
During the story their relationship develops and goes from heavy arguments to steamy lovemaking.
The book has a slow burn and the tension builds up. But slowly and gradually both reveal their true feelings to eachother.
What I loved about the story is that both MC's are very likeable and funny. Both are strong characters but their motives are genuine. Both are writers and they can express themselves better on paper than verbally. I loved the fact that both MC's are exchanging secrets in return for certain favors. Some of these secrets were really funny and surprising.
The book focusses mainly on the romance between both MC's. But there are also other important topics/sub-plots like the fight for witches to be allowed to attend university and being accepted in David's culture. The unhappy marriage between David's parents is also discussed. This gives the readers a lot of insight in David's character and motives.
This book is a must read for everyone who likes feisty witches, a sexy and handsome scholar, enemies to lovers trope, magic and very steamy love-making.
Due to the sexual content and mentioning of abuse I would rate this book 18+.
I can't wait for more books of this amazing author!
December 28, 2021
The book is well written with a good progression in the plot. The characters worked well, and I appreciated the captions about the book. While I can see where some people may be triggered by a few of the topics covered here, I think they were well used to demonstrate human progression.
I imagine this is intended to be able to be standalone story, that’s the only reason I really had to not give it five stars. I haven’t read any of the authors with, and so I went into this without a background. The world is so similar to our historical world that going into this series in book 2 made it necessary to play catch up. Don’t get me wrong, it was well done and an enjoyable, rather quick read, I just felt that a bit more background was there to help out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I imagine this is intended to be able to be standalone story, that’s the only reason I really had to not give it five stars. I haven’t read any of the authors with, and so I went into this without a background. The world is so similar to our historical world that going into this series in book 2 made it necessary to play catch up. Don’t get me wrong, it was well done and an enjoyable, rather quick read, I just felt that a bit more background was there to help out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 7, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ hot and spicy
- HIDDEN GEM
- ADDICTIVE AND ANGSTY
- BANTER AND CONNECTION THAT IS GORG
- magic and emotions and mixing of them
- arranged marriage
- women’s rights activists and the men who help them
- grumpy/sunshine
- FAB SPICE
- she can taste magic 👀👀
- he’s a secret witch
- incredible pacing
- part 2 of a 3 part series - but a standalone
THIS BOOK. If you trust me about anything in this life, it’s that you will LOVE this book! It is spicy, and wicked, and trauma bonding and righteous anger and a romance that is SO satisfying. And the BANTER. SL Prater is a BANTER GENIUS. Because of these books, I’ll be making my way through their entire anthology, and never regret it. I LOVE these characters, love their story and their fight for rights for witches, and cannot imagine a better written angsty romance.
🌶️ hot and spicy
- HIDDEN GEM
- ADDICTIVE AND ANGSTY
- BANTER AND CONNECTION THAT IS GORG
- magic and emotions and mixing of them
- arranged marriage
- women’s rights activists and the men who help them
- grumpy/sunshine
- FAB SPICE
- she can taste magic 👀👀
- he’s a secret witch
- incredible pacing
- part 2 of a 3 part series - but a standalone
THIS BOOK. If you trust me about anything in this life, it’s that you will LOVE this book! It is spicy, and wicked, and trauma bonding and righteous anger and a romance that is SO satisfying. And the BANTER. SL Prater is a BANTER GENIUS. Because of these books, I’ll be making my way through their entire anthology, and never regret it. I LOVE these characters, love their story and their fight for rights for witches, and cannot imagine a better written angsty romance.
January 17, 2022
Okay this book was totally amazing and brilliant? I was hooked to it from the first page, the characters were really fun and intriguing.
So,
☕ Medieval fantasy with an academic setting
☕ Both MCs are authors, AND they write romance/romantic books (these discussions were so much fun)
☕ A romance that started as exchanged letters
☕ Friendly acquaintances to married enemies(!) to lovers
☕ Also a bunch of fun references to other irl romance authors
I loved David and Ana so much, I felt that their whole friendship arc, and lovers arc was executed perfectly. I highly recommend this book if you want an entertaining fast-paced read!
TWs - infertility, domestic abuse faced by secondary character, discrimination/misogyny at a place of study
So,
☕ Medieval fantasy with an academic setting
☕ Both MCs are authors, AND they write romance/romantic books (these discussions were so much fun)
☕ A romance that started as exchanged letters
☕ Friendly acquaintances to married enemies(!) to lovers
☕ Also a bunch of fun references to other irl romance authors
I loved David and Ana so much, I felt that their whole friendship arc, and lovers arc was executed perfectly. I highly recommend this book if you want an entertaining fast-paced read!
TWs - infertility, domestic abuse faced by secondary character, discrimination/misogyny at a place of study
January 18, 2022
Enjoyable read. This was my first book in this author's world and i did not feel lost. The explanation regarding the magic is vague but enough that i could follow the story. The story telling device of dispersing their past letters throughout the story I LOVED. I felt their personalities and chemistry came across even better in those than they did in the rest of the book.
Specific comments:
I enjoyed the two main characters, but i'm not sure the reasoning for David's betrayal made sense. It all kind of blamed her for it which i felt was a cop out for his behavior.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Specific comments:
I enjoyed the two main characters, but i'm not sure the reasoning for David's betrayal made sense. It all kind of blamed her for it which i felt was a cop out for his behavior.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2023
“Ana stole a kiss that heated her skin. It had their magics melding and quickened her pulse. His breathing turned ragged, blowing against her cheek.”
You know that thing where you’re almost done with a book that you are only sort of enjoying and feel like you might enjoy more if the world building was better and then you find out you are reading the second book in a series? That happened to me with this book.
Now I have to decide if I care enough to go back to the beginning. And honestly, I’m not sure I do.
This was ok. In a rare instance, I could have gone for less sex, more story.
You know that thing where you’re almost done with a book that you are only sort of enjoying and feel like you might enjoy more if the world building was better and then you find out you are reading the second book in a series? That happened to me with this book.
Now I have to decide if I care enough to go back to the beginning. And honestly, I’m not sure I do.
This was ok. In a rare instance, I could have gone for less sex, more story.
January 18, 2022
This book was sooo good! I freaking LOVED the romance between Ana and David. They were so adorable. There was so much chemistry between them and some really heartwarming scenes that made me swoon. I loved both our protagonists very much. Ana was kind and determined. David was just so sweet and supporting. I loved reading the letters they exchanged before their wedding. It was a nice touch. From the synopsis of this book I knew I would like it but I wasn't expecting to fall in love with this. It gave me warm and fuzzy feelings.
October 4, 2022
~Thanks to S. L. Prater for providing this ARC for an honest review~
This is the second book of S. L. Prater I have devoured today. Again it was the perfect amount of everything. This world of Magic that she is creating is wonderful. It was so great to see snippets of Beauty's (from of roses and rituals) parents, just giving an extra glimpse of characters in this world. I love that even though these books are fantasy their problems are so relatable.
The only problem I have again is that it ended too soon.
This is the second book of S. L. Prater I have devoured today. Again it was the perfect amount of everything. This world of Magic that she is creating is wonderful. It was so great to see snippets of Beauty's (from of roses and rituals) parents, just giving an extra glimpse of characters in this world. I love that even though these books are fantasy their problems are so relatable.
The only problem I have again is that it ended too soon.
January 17, 2022
It's only JAN and I might have found my favorite novel of the year already. Ana is a strong-willed, wonderfully-witchy lead by example woman. Meanwhile, her sexy provost husband David is a closet witch that just can't help himself from falling in love with everything Ana. However, the strife her goals create is met with his goodwill to protect her and it leads to a lot of steamy scenes—and I mean steamy. The author is skilled with weaving the craft into the scenes and the storyline is original. I loved how she made me laugh and invested in every twist and turn the story took. I highly recommend this if you like historical paranormal romance. -I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2022
Love. So many of my favorite things are part of this book, particularly the letters between the characters before they met. Sigh. It gets me in my romantic heart every time. I love the interplay between the MCs. Quick banter and lots of love. My only complaint is it ended too soon :)
September 26, 2024
Short and fun story. I read it in a day (thru Kindle), and at the beginning I didn't understand it (the magics-thingy/ are those like floating magical orbs???), as it was Book 2 but it didn't really matter that much.
Plotwise: fun and spicy
Plotwise: fun and spicy
December 29, 2021
I liked this book! I was prepared in my mind to maybe not like it, but it was well written, kept my attention, witty, and I just skipped over the parts I did not want to read. I also found the characters to hold my interest as they seemed real. Its one of those you either will love or hate so just try it.
January 8, 2022
S. L. Prater's, The Secret Witch of Kriegspiel, really brings home the challenges of those that are different, particularly those that are not afraid to flaunt it at least a little. Ana was one such witch. Her quest to learn overruled her desire to stay at home in her comfort zone. Teased, treated unfairly, bullied and persecuted, Ana is determined to show everyone, especially her husband, David, that she belongs there just as much as everyone else. Maybe more than most!
The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic and mayhem, witticism, episodes of witch persecution and a romance to rivel the best in the genre. The characters are well developed and engaging. I definitely look forward to more books like this one!
The storyline is fast-paced and very well written, filled with magic and mayhem, witticism, episodes of witch persecution and a romance to rivel the best in the genre. The characters are well developed and engaging. I definitely look forward to more books like this one!
July 11, 2022
A friendship that ends in betrayal and a forced marriage but maybe there is more to this story... Hannah “Ana” is a witch and in a world where witches are reviled and are forced into marriages with priest she wants nothing more than to get out of her arranged marriage so she does what any person would, she begins writing letters to the priest she is supposed to be married and pleads with him to call it off. To her surprise he also does not want the marriage that their parents are forcing upon them, and so their letters begin to turn into something more, into genuine friendship... until on the day of the wedding when Anna believed that David would save her by calling off the wedding he commits the ultimate betrayal and goes through with it. Now she is forced to be his wife, live in his house, follow his rules, he controls her money and everything else. She is still reeling from this betrayal and the only thing she wants now is to be able to get her educational degree and become a professor but the school she wants, where David teaches, is known for it’s deep prejudice and mistreatment of witches. Though Anna has been fighting with David for all these months they strike a bargain, if she is willing to share a bed with him and at least become friends again he will let her go to school. With both of their magics constantly being attracted to each other but their complicated past building a wall between them. their relationship is about to get complicated. What Hannah doesn’t know is that David is deeply in love with her and is willing to do anything to prove to her that he loves her and that he will do anything to make up for what he’s done. The true question is, will Anna be able to forgive David for what he’s done and the hurt he has caused or will it be too much and their relationship will never grow? While I did come to like the characters I just felt so bad for Hannah and the situation that David put her in. She begged him, she befriended him, and he betrayed her and forced her into a situation in which she had no control over anything and forced her into a marriage in which he controlled everything. Yes he did it for love and he had another reason, but it just didn’t sit right with me on how Anna had to offer things to him in order to even get what she wanted. It did work out in the end and they do truly love each other now but like I said, it definitely was a rough start and I definitely felt more remorse for Hannah.
January 7, 2022
The book is a good, and enjoyable steamy historical fantasy romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2022
I would give this book 6 stars if I could. An extraordinary read with a brilliant plot and characters. The author's flawless 'world building' makes this book a joy. Often times when author's create a fictional world, the world can be written in quite a complicated way. This was not the case in this book. Another mentionable thing, without spoiling the book, was the unique blend of past and present moments between the characters. The flawless execution of these transitions were chef's kiss. I loved this book and look forward to reading more work from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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