Wielder’s Prize

Lady Witch #1

by Melissa Mitchell

Magic, demons, and a brooding wielder—what could possibly go wrong?

I thought I had my life figured out—until I bonded Rixon, the Citadel’s most skilled wielder. Our first assignment should have been simple: travel across the dangerous lands of Raeria, face some demons, protect its citizens in need. But no, of course, it's never that easy.

Turns out, Rixon’s past is a lot more complicated than I expected, and his icy attitude toward me is impossible to ignore. He’s been avoiding me for two years, and I’m starting to think it’s not just because he’s too busy brooding.

I promised myself I wouldn’t let my heart get involved. I know the pain of losing someone you love, and I won’t risk it again. But the closer we get to the heart of our mission—and the more my heart betrays me—the harder it becomes to deny what’s between us. Maybe, just maybe, Rixon is exactly what I’ve been missing all along. But I’m not sure if I can trust that… or him.

Wielder’s Prize is the first novel in the Lady Witch series, which is chock-full of sizzling tension, complex characters, and plenty of demon-slaying action. It is a tale of magic, trust, and discovering what it truly means to be bonded.

Warning: This series contains explicit sexual content suitable for audiences 18+, adult language, and some demon-slaying violence.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Witches, Fantasy Romance, Magic, Romantasy, Paranormal Romance

268 pages, Paperback

Published August 23, 2022

About the author

Instagram: @melissa.nicole.mitchell

Mrs. Mitchell is an author of young adult fantasy and paranormal romance. Her debut novel, Blood and Ballet, is a unique combination of two of her favorite things: vampires and ballet. She is currently working on a young adult epic fantasy series set in the fictional world of Dragonwall. You can purchase the first and second installments, Talon the Black and Reyr the Gold, through bookstores worldwide. Autographed copies can be obtained from her website store.

Mrs. Mitchell also has her Ph. D in physics with an emphasis in non-imaging optics; she is an illumination engineer for a large corporate lighting company in the United States.

She adores spending time with her husband and their three dogs (two Siberian huskies and an English lab). She also enjoys playing piano, reading, writing, baking goodies, eating chocolate, tea, wine, Prosecco, and especially bullet journaling.

Mrs. Mitchell offers “author reviews” for books that catch her eye, and you are welcome to submit your book request via goodreads messages. She reserves the right to leave messages unanswered if the book does not catch her attention.

Reviews

[abi · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.25

This is one of those fantasy romances that are very much romance and very little fantasy. Which is fine, but I really like my fantasy romances with a 50/50 on both, or a little more fantasy then romance. The world building was quite poor, and much of the world is left to the readers imagination or not explained at all. The romance and smut was good, but this book was really just a romance in disguise. I didn’t hate this, but I was quite done with this one by the end. I don’t think I’ll continue on with the series, but if you like mostly romance in your fantasy romance this one is probably for you.

[sairs_readsandreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got my copy of this book via netgalley, this is my honest review.

I loved this book! I instantly fell into this world and loved the slow unravelling of Aramina and Rixon's story.

The premise of this book is heavily focused on the relationship between Aramina and Rixon, and changes between flashbacks and present day. I really enjoyed the flashbacks and felt they were cleverly executed. We started at 2 years ago and each flashback slowly brought us up to present day.
I began to look forward to the detail in the past when the pair were at the Citadel together before their journey started.

The world that our characters are in was well developed and interesting enough without detracting from the romance. This was your typical travelling story with forced proximity and one horse, one bed at times. The uniqueness in the story for me was the bonded pair and how they fought demons. It was an idea I've not come across before, and I felt worked well and gave the action depth and intrigue. It was frustrating to know that there were limitations to Mina's power and that also add an element to the story that wasn't your usual 'chosen one' with endless power. Although she had strength, she wasn't infallible.

Rixon was quiet and troubled but once he thawed, I started to swoon for his change in character. Mina was strong and practical, yet likable and engaging. This book focused on Mina's past and how that was affecting her interactions with others, so I am really pleased to see the next book has mention of Rixon's past. They are both complex characters who support each other and also have some great steamy moments! I need more 'one bath' moments!

I felt the pace was slow and methodical, and mirrored the journey they were taking. This wasn't a quick read where I gobbled up the pages, this was a slower savouring of the tale as it moved along.

Excited to continue with this series.

[natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was really good, definitely a recommendation for those who love magic, romance, and the forced proximity trope. The writing style is detailed and yet easy enough to understand exactly what is going on. The main character, Aramina, is a strong woman who is not afraid of danger and I admire her— It was nice to read about a character the same age as me! The flashbacks were used very effectively. I’m definitely going to continue with this series, as I am eager to find out what happens with Mina!

[Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read if you like:
💕 Slow burn
🧙‍♀️Witches and bonded pairs
🌶️ mild spice 🌶️
💫 Single POV
✨ Banter

Buckle up for a spellbinding journey into a world where magic and destiny intertwine in Wielder’s Prize, the enchanting first installment of the Lady Witch series. In this tale of witches, bonded pairs, and simmering romance, Aramina and Rixon are tasked with a mission to protect a citadel on the border. As their strengths entwine, so do their fates, but beneath the surface of this supernatural partnership lies a brewing storm of tension, secrecy and desires.

Aramina is a closed book and did annoy me at times. Rixon is a mysterious brooding warrior with a dark past. These characters create the kind of tension that had me giggling. The characters are well described in the novella and decently flushed out as well.

Since this is a short read, the author didn’t spend too much time on world building and left that up to our own imagination. Every chapter starts with a flashback but I liked the opportunity to learn more about Aramina.

This novella is perfect for those looking to get into fantasy but are dreading 100 pages of world building. It’s a cute romantasy and I’m looking forward to reading more from the series.

Thank you to the author and netgalley for providing me a copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.

[Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5 ⭐ Cozy, easy to read romance novella

The usual disclaimer: I received a copy of this book (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. As always, all opinions are my own.

What to expect
Witches
Forced proximity tropes
Romance
Spice (2/5)

What I liked
Pace: The pace is quite fast, assisted by easy-to-read prose. I found the book difficult to put down because it reeled me in with every chapter.
Plot: The story was cute and interesting. It leans much closer to romance than fantasy.
Character Development: I think the author writes women well. I liked the MC, Aramina, and the women she meets on the road. I liked that the story unfolds from duel timelines, but…

What I didn’t like
Character Development: …Rixon felt a bit one dimensional. It would be interesting to read about their relationship from his POV. I am assuming that he will be fleshed out more in the other books.
Prose: It was an easy, uncomplicated read. The only thing that stuck out to me was Lady Witch which felt like a tautological pleonasm. Aren’t all witches ladies, or perhaps it’s just a title? Either way, it felt a bit redundant.
World building: While there are interesting ideas, I think more life and depth could have been given to the world.
Romance: I liked the romance, but there could have been more suspense built up around pivotal moments and realisations.

[JP · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good! I was hooked immediately and I loved the world building. The characters were well developed and the story wonderfully detailed. I couldn’t put it down and became obsessed with the main characters.
Things I loved:
• The chemistry
• Rixon
• The intimacy
• Their bond and abilities
• World building
I’m not a huge fantasy romance girl but I loved this one! I recommend this book.
Thanks BooksGoSocial via NetGalley .

[Carolina Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wielder's Prize was a simple but addicting romantasy (emphasis on romance) read. There could have been more world and relationship-building, but was still overall interesting enough to pull me in. The writing style makes it a very easy read, with enough detail to paint the settings in your head but without getting overly complicated.

I give this book 4 stars: I was so addicted to this book I couldn't focus on anything else, but once you put the romance aside it left a bit to be desired with the world-building and plot. As the first novella in a 4 book series, I hope the next books expand on this. I plan on immediately finding out!

I received a copy of Wielder's Prize from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review

[Literary Drunk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five roaring stars for wit, smut, plot, and execution!

Guys you know I’m hard to please! Read this! I’m serious! You’ll love it. Melissa’s best work EVER!

I don’t know what I was expecting when I dove into this, but I quickly realized I was in for a sizzling hot, action packed ride.

Every chapter is preluded with a flashback. Hear me out! I usually hate flashbacks, too, but NOT THESE! I LIVED for the flashbacks into the past. They were so well done, I ended up loving them and looking forward to each new chapter just so I could glimpse Mina’s dark past. They were brief (sometimes too brief, if I’m honest, but only because I wanted more), succinct, and filled with angst.

I began to fall in love with Rixon both in the past and present. It was a slow burn because he doesn’t give much away. And though Mina, as the witch, is technically the powerhouse, her brawny wielder, Rixon is anything but second fiddle. It’s easy to forget that imbalance of power because, as far as raw physical male power, Rixon more than makes up for lack of magic.
He is super fascinating. Silent, enigmatic, the best sword wielder, and his dirty mouth will have your smutty heart throbbing!

Mina is also a great character. The dichotomy of her personality made me love her from the start! It made me desperate to know all about her past. Despite being closed up and keeping herself emotionally distant, she is honest and real. She’s damaged but not broken. But those inner scars are what make her the most unlikely and most powerful demon killer.

Speaking of demons. These things are terrifying! Straight out of a Tolkien nightmare!

This book had everything—a hero’s journey, slow burning romance, horrifying monsters, and fantastic world building. Best of all, it’s only the start!

And the ending was PERFECT! unlike so many asshole books out there, this DOESN’T end on an annoying cliffhanger! Very rarely is a cliffhanger necessary. I hate them. A writer who uses them just to force a reader to buy the next book is a writer I generally won’t come back to (except Jay Kristoff).
Though Wielder’s Prize has a definitive ending with all pertinent threads tied, Melissa Mitchell cunningly wove such an enthralling story, that you can’t wait to dive back in and devour all the breadcrumbs Wielder’s Prize leaves behind. It thoroughly entices you into the next installment. And, from the trail of crumbs left at the end, the series promises a feast of epic proportions.

Pass me the mustard and mint sauce, I’m ready for seconds! *bangs fork on table*

[Sofie Haller · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
1.5 🌶

This is a romantic fantasy tale that leans heavy on the romance and light on the fantasy, perfect for anyone who needs a gradual introduction to a fantasy series. Aramina, a newly graduated Lady Witch, is off on a journey to her first major assignment across the country. Joining her is her Wielder, Rixon - a broody, quiet warrior that speaks more frequently with his actions rather than his words. This unlikely pair is newly bonded - making their way across the countryside from the Citadel to their new assignment to help fight back against the ever-growing demon threat.

I loved the romance aspect of this - Aramina and Rixon are a reluctant pair and tension between the two is genuine. I really enjoyed that every chapter is preluded with a flashback from Aramina's past. She is definitely a bit emotionally distant until she is willing to face her past and share that with Rixon. The Wielder is no stranger to sadness and pain as he also shares emotional scars from his past. The two are an unlikely duo, but are a true team in battle against the demons.

Slow burn romance, steamy scenes, demons and danger lurking in every corner and a wonderfully strong duo of main characters. Wielder's Prize has it all for an entertaining read!

The only major downfall is the general worldbuilding. The characters are detailed very descriptively, however, but the major world-building is left up to the reader's imagination. This may be due to the fact that this is only the first in the Lady Witch trilogy - very excited to see the rest in the series.

Thank you Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for this eARC to review!

[Sarah G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of Wielder’s Prize via Net Galley and Melissa Mitchell in exchange for an honest review, which I am so happy to give because I loved this book.
Wielder’s Prize is peak romantasy. It has an interesting and unique premise full of magic and fantasy elements, balanced with a heavy load of romance and spice. I felt like the world-building was seamless, the characters and their stories were compelling, and there was enough action that I had trouble putting the book down.

This book felt a little like a spicier version of The Witcher, and I say that as high praise. I loved the world that Mitchell built, where women have this significant magical power that they use to work alongside male Wielder’s to destroy demons from hell. It was an interesting approach to have the two magical aspects so intricately tied in such a way that while each is powerful, neither can truly succeed without the other.

It was a clever choice to accomplish much of the world-building and history about how witches and wielders operated through Aramina’s flashbacks. World-building is usually the most daunting aspect of a new fantasy series for me, but using the rotating perspective through time ensured that the setting was established quickly and understandably while simultaneously building out the relationship between Aramina and Rixon.

For me, it’s important that a romantasy balances fantasy, action, and romance, and I felt like Mitchell executed that balance well. While the romantic scenes were not infrequent (and very explicit at times), it wasn’t the entirety of the book. There were a lot of fantastic fight scenes and a good amount of detail and events surrounding Aramina’s training and the present day that that had me as invested in the plot surrounding the witches, their wielders, and the realm as I was in the relationship between Aramina and Rixon. The pacing was also on point. Mitchell jumped into the thick of the characters and narrative immediately and the momentum only built from there.

The characters themselves were fascinating, and their conflicts kept me hooked and wanting to understand what it was that drove them and what contributed to the traumas they regularly faced. Aramina was particularly compelling to me. As the book went on, she became more layered and multidimensional as different pieces of her past unfolded to tell a better story of how she became who was, and how the events of her past impacted the relationships around her. I’m very interested in learning more about Rixon and what makes him tick as well, given that I felt he was set up to have a lot of future potential.

This book had me compulsively reading right from the start. It was concise, action-packed, and had a gorgeous romance that was drawn out in a perfectly. I’m so excited to learn that the other books in this series are already available as I’ll definitely be moving onto the second book shortly. A 4.5 star read for sheer enjoyability.

[lotteareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

*3.75 stars*

the wielder’s prize follows the story of a witch, aramina, and her wielder, rixon, as they set on a journey reach to rockfall, their first assignment since they were bonded together. travelling across raeria, they learn to work together as they fight the demons, both physical and literal, they come across on their way. this is easier said than done, as both have mysterious pasts and have ignored each other the last two years.

this is a light fantasy, with easy-to-understand lore and a nice spin on the overdone fantasy genre, using the witch and wielder bond. mitchell uses flashbacks at the beginning of each chapter to shed more light on the training involved in becoming a witch or wielder, and how the bond works, which was a great way to build up the world without info-dumping at the beginning of the book. while the simple magic system makes the world very easy to fall into, i do wish there had been a bit more detail of the magic system, and perhaps more of the fantasy elements of the novel.

i did really like the main character, aramina, who is brave, hard-working, quick-witted and resourceful. her character arc was satisfying to read as she learnt how to overcome her fears from her past. mitchell made sure that there was just enough intrigue about the pasts of both aramina and rixon to keep the reader wanting to know more, without making me want to rush to later chapters to learn about their history – very skilfully done. rixon was not as endearing and well-developed as aramina, but i feel like he might be more fleshed out in the later books, so i wasn’t put off by this. the dialogue between the two was very snappy and witty, keeping the pace of the book fast and engaging.

this was very romance heavy rather than fantasy heavy, which i definitely appreciated after just having finished a quite complex and combat-focused series. the romance contained a good level of spice with a nice mix of friendship and joking, so it made the romance more believable. however, i did find that some of the romance scenes dragged, and the story could have benefitted from having more of a balance between the plot-driving chapters and the steamier chapters.

i can honestly say i was surprised by how much i enjoyed this, and i will definitely be reading the next few books in the lady witch series! the wielder’s prize is a strong start to the series.

content warnings: violence, injury, SA, murder, sexual content.

[Hania · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Every witch needs a wielder."

Many thanks to Netgalley for providing me this eARC!
I really enjoyed Wielder's Prize! I had to get into it the first 30-40 pages but once I picked it up I finished it in one sitting.

Tropes
- Witchy theme
- Spicy romance
- Forced proximity (one bed, one horse, one bath wink wink)
- Who hurt you?
- Flashbacks

Spice rating
2/5 🌶️

It was more romance than fantasy but there was still an existing plot with an interesting, not too large, world setting. The heroine is not the typical shy one. She's reserved but badass and is determined in what she wants!
I really liked seeing her develop as she had to overcome fears and personal issues because of past trauma.

I always wanted to try books that are witch themed and this one really lived up to my expectations. I'm for sure continuing the series and the 4th book is coming out soon so that's a really good timing!

As I said the world setting and plot are there and is easy to follow, everything gets its explanation and there weren't any plot holes. it was a descriptive book but it was simple enough for the reader to understand.
The main thing that I really enjoyed was how every chapter was divided into a flashback and a part of the present day and the story in the flashbacks would develop slowly as you kept reading. That was a new thing for me,
I haven't read a book until now who had the same idea but it was surprisingly enjoyable in stead of random flashbacks during a dialogue in a chapter. I hope I see more of that in the next books!

For the romance, it was pretty insta-lovey / lust and I think that the author could have taken a little more time. Rixon went from super cold to sweet and possessive (which I don't mind but you get what I mean). I wish there was a step between those two. It was too abrupt.

"My little witch has talons. I was wondering when you'd scratch me again. I rather enjoy it."

I would really recommend this book to anyone who likes a witchy themed book with a cute romance!

I hope this review helped to give you an idea of the book and convinces you to read it as well, enjoy! (:

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Wielders Prize! It’s the first book in the series and it had a bit of a prequel vibe to me. I really liked the technique the author used of having the beginning of each chapter be a flash back to Minas past, or interactions with Rixen.

Mina and Rixen were really sweet together and I found Mina’s shyness and inexperience so charming. While their relationship overall was a bit of a slow burn, once they were made partners the romance went full steam ahead!! One-tub is definitely a new favourite micro trip of mine haha.

I’m very intrigued by the demons and world and what will happen next. Overall was a fun fast read that I’ve had on my tbr for a long time, and I’m excited to see where the story goes!

[Brooke Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great, quick read!

The plot was a little bit predictable, but not in a bad way! I enjoyed getting to learn the back story of our FMC.

However, the flashbacks at the beginning of each chapter were a little abrupt. I think it would have been better to focus more on the past in their own chapters. That way we could get more attached to the FMC. All that said, I was still devastated when the tragic past was revealed!

It would have been great to learn a little more about the MMC, but that could come later in the series I suppose. Maybe the mystery is part of the allure.

Grumpy/Sunshine and Enemies to Lovers - a fantasy romance reader's dream!

[Ashley {_xamountofbooks} · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)

3.5 stars

I enjoyed this read well enough but it felt more like a romance book with a hint of fantasy. (Which, if you prefer that this may be the read for you.) I liked the characters but the world building fell a little flat to me which I suppose could be related to this being a novella.

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like witches and magic, mixed with heavy romance and solid world-building, this is the book for you.

I chose this book as someone who adores romantasy books based on witches, Witch Collector being one of my all-time favorites. And Wielder’s Prize didn’t disappoint. The pace was good, the characters great, the plot heavy on romance, although that isn’t something I mind. All in all, great start into the series!

[Ellen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story focuses on Mina, a witch, and Rixon, her wielder, aka a strong fighter paired with her. Together they defeat demons which are increasing in number but we don't know why. The story is told part in past tense which gives us an idea why there is so much tension between the two who are now bonded for life.

I wanted more but I'll forgive it with this being a novella and an intro to the series. I really wanted a little more backstory (especially for Rixon) and world building but hopefully those things are addressed in the next book.

All in all it seems like a good intro to the series. Moderate spice. No cliffhanger ending, but it just drops off abruptly.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked this one up on a whim and I’m glad I did! First foray into proper multi book romantasy following one couple. I’m excited to continue their journey!

This book is in Mina’s pov and each chapter starts with a flashback, the characters having met initially 2 years prior to the book’s starting point. Refreshing to have an established connection and their relationship progression. No piv in this one tho 🤭😊 which usually would annoy me but I’m more excited to have real ~multi book chemistry~

Maybe this will convert me into a series gal we shall see

Check tw for an event in fmc’s pass

[Christine Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s everything a good romantasy book is. A very short and sweet read but I really enjoyed the dynamics between the FMC & MMC and the world is very interesting! Can’t wait to read the other books.

[Natasza Krajcovic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was surprisingly good!!!!

[Ashley Luhrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me this ebook to review.

The newly bonded Aramina (the top witch of her cohort) and Rixon (her broody crush and a seasoned wielder with a past) travel together to investigate the rise of demons terrorizing the kingdom.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, and I devoured it in 24 hours. Approachable world-building, full of action, and, of course, excellent sexual tension. I’m hooked, and I’m excited to read the rest of this series!

Why I loved this novella:
- Women in charge (witches are on top in this universe)
- Loved seeing Aramina’s character growth
- Demon slaying battle scenes
- A tall FMC
- For all you princess bride fans: a MMC saying ‘As you wish’
- One bed trope
- Bodyguard trope
- The spice!

[Elaine ★ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75★

First of all, I want to say thank you to NetGalley for the e-copy of this book. I don’t think I would have found it otherwise.
I’m very surprised at how much I actually enjoyed this book. It was quite good! And really fun to read.

Thoughts:

- I liked the writing. It was simple and fast-paced, and I enjoyed reading it.

- One thing I didn’t like was the author's usage of "male" and "female" instead of saying "man" and "woman" all the time. It wasn't a big deal, just something I didn't like as much.

- At the beginning of each chapter, we got a bit of a throwback in time, which helped a lot to bring some backstory of the characters. I loved that.

- The fight scenes were so well-written.

- I adored the characters! I loved Aramina as a tall, strong woman who can take care of herself, and Rixon with all his grumpiness. They were a very cute pairing.

- The romance was lovely. Slow and steamy, very enjoyable.

- Overall, I’d say the book is heavier on the romance side than the fantasy, but I didn’t mind it at all. It had enough world-building to keep me entertained. Obviously, I wouldn’t mind getting more of the background, but for the book’s length and it being the first in the series, I feel like it was good enough.

- The story, in general, was quite simple. Witches with their wielder fighting demons, but for some reason, it was entertaining to read!

- I’d definitely recommend anyone picking up this book and giving it a try. It’s a quick read. I will definitely continue the series - or at least give the second book a try. I’m curious how the story will go on.


Read if you like:

- Witches and magic
- One bed, one bath, one horse trope
- Grumpy MMC
- Who hurt you
- Steamy romance
- Spice

[Amanda.Laurieann · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
1.5🌶

Where has this book been hiding?! It was so good and it surpassed my exceptions! I couldn't stop reading this book. Also, this book does jump back and forth between two different time periods. But it helps push the story forward.

The story and lore is so unique and different. A witch and a wielder are bonded. From there they basically protect the realm from demons. So there is plenty of action, in more ways than one.

The main witch, Mina, and wielder, Rixon, that the story follows has amazing chemistry. Let's just say the spicy scenes are very well done. Plus I really like their personalities, grumpy and kind of sunshine. Mina has some past trauma that she works through during the journey she and Rixon are on. Her character was really relatable to me when it comes to anxiety and letting people into your life. I also really appreciate Rixon being patient with her.

This book has some of my favorite tropes:
One Bed
One Horse
One Bath

Overall, I love this book and I'm going to start the next book immediately.

[CaiReeds ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️s
I read this book in 2 days, I couldn’t put it down. Every other book I was reading at the same time took the backburner to this one.

This storyline is very original and unique both in the major storylines and the ones creeping back behind the scenes. Aramina and Rixon are power couple GOALS. The heat and intensity between them is intoxicating. They both share similar fears and once they cracked through those fears, they became destined for nothing but greatness.

I was so purely entertained by every aspect of this book. I look forward to seeing how the rest of the series plays out!

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.

Could you handle being bonded with someone you believe hates you? What if I told you would be bonded until someone passes away? However, this person that you’re bonded to is one of the strongest wielders out there and you know that he will keep you safe no matter what.

Who wouldn’t want to read a book about a witch and her bonded muscle? They have to travel a month out to get to their post and on top of that her wielder is not the friendly talkative type at all. I enjoyed the plot a lot in this book and the character development throughout the whole book. I think for me it was the magic system that I loved and the world building that the author created that I loved so much. I thought the pace was steady throughout the book, picked up at the right time and was slow at the right time. The magic system was so interesting, how the witches come into their magics and how they have to learn to develop their magic so they can fight away the demons that are trying to come into the world. I did not mind that the book would go from the past to the present at all because the author had it clearly marked if you were in the past and when the present time started, and it really gave you a glimpse of what started this attraction between these two characters and to get a better understanding of them both.

Mina is a great FMC, she is strong and determined to make it on top without anyone really knowing exactly how much power she really holds as a witch. She keeps to herself mostly, but she does have a close friend. I loved that even though she knows people will judge her for her choices she puts everything aside and picks with logic when it comes to picking a wielder. She doesn’t have time to listen to rumors and would rather hear the truth from the person, rather than sit there and make up their own stories.

Rixon is quiet and keeps to himself as well. He doesn’t have time for witches in the Citadel, instead he would rather be training to become better than he was before and reading. He is a little standoffish but once you get him to thaw out a little… girl run. That man is yummy in all the right ways. Protective, determined, quiet, sweet (once he is thawed out), and let me tell you know he also knows when to take charge in all the right ways…. Wink wink. I loved the banter between the characters, and I loved that when Rixon would push Mina she would push right back.

I would go on but honestly, I think it’s time that I go read book two now.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes witches, sexy protectors, a little spice, forced proximity (one bath, one bed) and so much more great things.

I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to review this book .

[SexySiren24 · Rating 3 out of 5]

Even though I think this one is ok if you want a diet coke fantasy with a dash of smut, there were too many elements that didn’t quite work for me.
Maybe I’m talking out of my ass here, as I haven’t completed the trilogy of course, but I get the feeling that splitting the story into three novellas instead of a solid first book was a mistake.
Not too much happens storywise, so if you remove some of the repetitive travelling/fighting sequences, there was no reason for the plot not to continue in this first volume, as no answers are really provided and the book lacks a proper three act structure, which leaves us with an awkward finale with no real resolution.
While the world-building was tepid and the plot not terribly exciting, it was the characters/romance that spoiled the broth for me. Maybe my expectations were skewered, but I was under the impression that it was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers-slow-burn-romance and it ended up being anything but.
Despite the word never being mentioned by either character in dialogue, I could smell the awful stench of instalove from a mile away. Every chapter opens with a flashback sequence that is meant to illustrate Rixon and Mina’s connection and explore not only the world/magic system, but their so called “complicated relationship”; problem was, that even after pages of so called exploring, I couldn’t tell you why these two like/want each other besides their respective physical appearance. If Rixon hates all witches, why is Mina different? He barely knew her back then, so his mushy declarations of affection and lust towards the end were pretty ridiculous considering how little development there is to be had. (Plus, what kind of guy throws a hissy fit because you want to keep things casual at first? Especially when he barely knows you). Maybe if the author took the time to build the tension throughout the three novellas instead of trying to cram an entire romantic subplot into 250 pages, it would’ve been more believable, but I guess sex sells and that was more important.
In terms of personality, both main characters were decently written I suppose, even though the tropes Mitchell uses aren’t really my taste (pining virgin and broody warrior).

Anyway, read at your own risk while keeping expectations low would be my advice. It had potential, but the enfasis that should have been put into the story was wasted on the underdeveloped romance and the tiresome inner monologues dealing with Mina’s emotional unavailability.

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

The beginning of 'Wielder's Prize' felt like the first 50 pages were missing due to the heavy use of flashbacks further along in the novel. This was a little disjointed at first but ultimately settled into a good rhythm that allowed the story to flow while providing context from their time training.

With an unfavorably shady past that he isn't willing to share, Rixon's attempt to remain a stoic and remote presence at his Lady Witch's' side slowly crumbles as she breaks through his rough personality and proves she will not take advantage of their bond as others had in the past. Their brief interactions at the academy over those years were frigid and painfully tense by his choice, but he's never met a Witch like Mina.

"My little witch has talons. I was wondering when you'd scratch me again. I rather enjoy it."

Mina is young and innocent, but powerful. Her path to magic is tragic but she is determined to save their world and pull Rixon out of his shell. Being a Witch gives her powerful status, but she is only ever humble and kind to everyone, even Rixon when he doesn’t deserve it. 

"Years of training had prepared me to face demons, but no one had prepared me to face my wielder."

Their relationship dynamic dramatically shifts from Mina being in charge of decision-making to a subservient student in the confines of the bedroom where Rixon claims control that he isn't afforded publicly. The first book in the Lady Witch series isn't as heavily spiced as the ones to follow but has plenty of sexual tension and intimate touching for three peppers. As the series goes on, Rixon only shows Mina more ways to express their affection and love for each other.

"But for now, I would let him lead. After all, outside of these occurrences, I was the one expected to take that role. I was...exhausting, being the decision maker, carrying the reins, leading so that he might follow. Handing over my control, giving myself up to him, was liberating."

Overall, 'Wielder's Prize' was a solid start to the 'Lady Witch' series and immediately roped me in to continue on to book two. While there isn't a steep drop of a cliffhanger, Mina and Rixon have yet to reach their posting by the end of book one so there is plenty of story to continue.

Tropes and Themes: Magic, Demons, Paranormal, Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Witch, Grump x Sunshine, Alpha Male.

More reviews at www.ratherbookish.com

[Ania_Gemma_Reads \ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wielder's Prize by Melissa Mitchell
(Lady Witch #1)
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐⭐/5
🌶🌶🌶.5/ 5

SYNOPSIS:

Every witch needs a wielder. Newly bonded, Aramina sets out from the Citadel to take up her first assignment. Traveling across Raeria won’t be easy. Not because of the demons along the way, but because of Rixon. He might be the best wielder in the Citadel, but he has a questionable past. Plus, he spent the last two years pointedly ignoring her.

QUOTE:
"My little witch has talons. I was wondering when you'd scratch me again. I rather enjoy it."

MY THOUGHTS:
Where do I start? I LOVED this book! Could not stop talking about it! It made my heart break, it made me squeal, it made me blush and hold my breath! I think Melissa went inside my head somehow and wrote a book about all my favorite things!

The characters Mina and Rixon are my new favorite couple. We have a secretive, broody wielder- Rixon who has the filthiest mouth (LOVE IT) and our Lady Witch Mina (I want everyone from now on call me Lady Witch- new favorite) who is such a wonderful character, vulnerable, badass and on a journey of growth.
The world that Melissa created is so beautifully crafted. I love the magic, the backstories and the wielders+witches duo bond. The action scenes are amazing! I was holding my breath throughout them and the pace of the book is perfection.

The Romance is fantastic it is a perfect slow burn- not too slow and not too fast, the chemistry between the characters is on point- the push and pull (chef's kiss!). The spicy scenes are perfection and they are impeccably sprinkled throughout the book so you do not have to wait too long for them (sorry not sorry for being thirsty!) There are sassy pet names, steamy scenes and lots of action!

The award to the best supporting character goes to Jarrow- Mina's sassy and protective steed. Love him to pieces and he needs to get his own point of view. Also there is a one horse trope here that is basically the cherry on the top!

If you love witches, spice, broody dark haired protective males who will say it as it is, you need to run, not walk to get this book. I will be reading the next book ASAP!

BONUS POINTS: no cliffhanger. The ending keeps you wanting for more but it ends perfectly and made my heart and dirty mind so HAPPY!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wielder’s Prize by Melissa Mitchell was noted by NetGalley (thanks #NetGalley for the read) as a little novella that would be one of three to make up the Lady Witch book. #WieldersPrize is the story of a Witch and her bonded Wielder. Filled with all the fantasy romance troupes, #WieldersPrize was a fun little romp. Surprisingly, while I am not the biggest fan of story telling done with time jumps, the “X years ago” way each chapter started and then finished with present day was not hard to follow and felt natural to this story.

For those who want the “will they won’t they” typical to this genre, you won’t be disappointed.Hot Woman in Bikini Sitting on Block of Ice and Fanning Herself | #C789015 | CSA Images And the romance takes a turn between the sheets which on my steamy scale gets a decent score for the amount of it, and the interesting way we get the steam since we never see the main characters completely seal the deal. But, it was still fun to read (and left me with the need to fan myself more than once).

The story seems like it might have legs too. It was an interesting take on demons. And it was full of fighting and action, and never left me feeling like the author wrote a helpless waif that wasn’t worth the time and effort. Instead, while a typical motivation drove her, she too became (in secret) and expert with some weapons and was completely capable of holding her own. Where she falters in that is in the bedroom – Rixon all of a sudden takes charge, but isn’t that part of what makes books in this genre such an escape from reality? He is the hot, chiseled, quiet type except when it comes to pleasing our female character. So typical. But definitely worth the quick read that it is. In fact, I am off to try to buy the second and third in the series!

[Evin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC.

This is a novella with a fantasy setting rather than a romance fantasy book. My general thoughts are that the witch-wielder relationship was a great vehicle for exploring the romance but it does feel like a paraphrasing of the witch-warder relationship in the "The Wheel of Time" book series. Also, I was not particularly comfortable with the age difference between our romantic leads, especially since they theoretically could have experienced overlap when Mina was very much a minor.

I give this 3 stars because it has so much potential to be a captivating and well thought out fantasy but Melissa choses to abbreviate the story in favor of pushing a novella. The effect is a suddenly rather perfunctory fantasy novel and a lot of loose ends regarding the larger plot. This decision is confusing. I don't see why this story is benefited by being a novella rather than a full fantasy romance novel. Without reading any of Melissa's other books, I question if she has the capacity (or interest) to write a robust fantasy world with a complex plot.

Since this book is so short, not in terms of page length but regarding the lack of completeness around the larger fantasy narrative arc, I wish we had gotten more interaction between Mina and Rixon while they were building the foundation for their relationship. The majority of "Wielder's Prize" is told through flashbacks and then after experiencing some danger in present-day, Mina and Rixon very suddenly veer into romantic territory. I wanted more relationship backstory and considering this is very loosely an enemies to lovers trope, I wanted more building of tension and a deeper exploration of the dynamics of their relationship.