Wooing the Witch Queen
Author: Stephanie Burgis
Reviewer: Jen
Rating: A-
What I’m Talking About:
Felix is the Archduke of Estarion, but his father-in-law has long controlled everything as Estarion’s Chief Minister, with his son as the head of the military. They put themselves into power after Felix’s parents died fifteen years ago. Knowing the Chief plans to kill him, Felix decides to escape to neighboring Kitvaria which is ruled by the dangerous Witch Queen Saskia. Since his life would be forfeit if his identity is discovered, Felix plays the part of dark wizard librarian.
Wooing the Witch Queen is an enjoyable story from beginning to end. I will admit up front, I was very worried because Felix hides his true identity, and I guessed it would cause huge problems once he is discovered. Yet my fears quickly settled, and I became engrossed with the tale because Burgis does such an amazing job letting the details unfold at just the right moments. I love the lingering gazes and accidental touches that build over time. Felix and Saskia’s desire is palpable, and Felix’s attempts to woo Saskia are so romantic. I love their connection, and even though it could seem dishonest, it’s genuine. She knows in her heart that Fabian né Felix is a gentle, kind soul. It’s in every action and gesture.
Saskia’s non-human staff are delightful. I love their loyalty and protectiveness. My favorite is Oskar the crow who befriends Felix and becomes his familiar. I love that Felix gives the crows gifts of buttons and string, etc. The other two Queens of Villainy are interesting. Lorelei is a loose cannon and a bit frustrating. I liked Ailana because she listened and made decisions after careful consideration. It will be interesting to see how the trio’s dynamics evolve in subsequent books.
In the end, Wooing the Witch Queen is a delightful romance set in an exciting new fantasy world. And with the way this one ends, I cannot wait to read more.
My Rating: A- Enjoyed A Lot
Jen
About the Book:
Queen Saskia is the wicked sorceress everyone fears. After successfully wrestling the throne from her evil uncle, she only wants one thing: to keep her people safe from the empire next door. For that, she needs to spend more time in her laboratory experimenting with her spells. She definitely doesn’t have time to bring order to her chaotic library of magic.
When a mysterious dark wizard arrives at her castle, Saskia hires him as her new librarian on the spot. “Fabian” is sweet and a little nerdy, and his requests seem a little strange – what in the name of Divine Elva is a fountain pen? – but he’s getting the job done. And if he writes her flirtatious poetry and his innocent touch makes her skin singe, well…
Little does Saskia know that the “wizard” she’s falling for is actually an Imperial archduke in disguise, with no magical training whatsoever. On the run, with perilous secrets on his trail and a fast growing yearning for the wicked sorceress, he’s in danger from her enemies and her newfound allies, too. When his identity is finally revealed, will their love save or doom each other?
Release Date: February 18, 2025
Publisher: Bramble
Series: Queens of Villainy #1
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Format(s): paperback (304 pages), e-book, audiobook
Book Source: NetGalley / Author
Purchase Info:
Amazon (affiliate link)