This was a nice book to read in between other things. it was fast paced and straight to the point. I didn't like Alessia's family or fiancé and I enjoyed getting to watch her become happier and feel like she belonged somewhere as the story developed.

I enjoyed Silas and Alessia's dynamic more towards the middle to end of the story. I felt like Alessia was just a bit stubborn at times. She was so miserable in her previous life, why not take a leap of faith for a new start? I do feel like she went a bit quick from being wary about everything to then being in love with Silas.

I enjoyed her encounters with various magical creatures such as the siren and the unicorn. I think that added a bit dynamic to the story and world building in general. It was easy to imagine all of them living in the same general area somewhat peacefully to an extent.

I'm honestly quite surprised by how many reviews are labeling it as similar to ACOTAR. I didn't get that feeling at all, even despite the similar wedding scenario.

Overall, it was a quick read that kept me entertained throughout the book and I enjoyed it. Thank you to Netgalley, LaManna Books, and Gina LaManna for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.

Cursed offers a fresh take on fantasy by blending Fae lore with elements of Greek mythology, creating a unique and intriguing premise. The story follows Alessia "Allie" Wells, a runaway bride who discovers she is the last living Fae and the only one capable of breaking a deadly curse on a magical island. While the concept is undeniably compelling, the execution feels uneven at times.

The book is slow-paced for much of the story, which allows for detailed world-building and character development, but the ending feels rushed, making it difficult to fully appreciate the climax. Additionally, some moments come across as a bit cheesy, which detracts from the emotional weight of the narrative.

Despite these flaws, Cursed still shines in its imaginative plot and the clever incorporation of Greek mythology into a Fae-inspired world. Fans of fantasy with romantic and mythological twists may still find this a worthwhile read, even if it doesn’t quite live up to its full potential.

A magical, fast-paced delight with a hint of ACOTAR and Once Upon A Time. Interrupted weddings, mystical islands and a fae who doesn’t believe in magic. My kind of fantasy in a nutshell.

“To be accepted and loved, to bask in such a plain and wonderful gift. It cost zero dollars and cents, required no promises or lavish extravagances. I only wished I had longer to savour it.”

Alessia is a doctor, from a socialite family, expected to marry a man she doesn’t truly love, simply to keep up with the image her parents expect of her. Allie has never felt that she belonged. That is, until the pivotal moment of her wedding day is interrupted by somebody mysterious, dark and handsome.

Whisked away to a magical island, it takes no time at all for Alessia to feel at home. She just needs to adjust to the idea of magic first. And the encroaching curse that threatens to wipe everybody out.

This book was such an easy read. Allie is accompanied by her mysterious kidnapper, Silas who helps her to understand the magical world that had been hidden from her, whilst showing her some home truths. As the story progresses, it becomes a love story for the ages. Until tragedy strikes, and Alessia begins to understand her purpose.

“I only knew that I’d found my place and my person, only to have them both torn away from me.”

Silas was by far my favourite character and I can’t wait to see more of him in the rest of the series. He still remains a mystery, seemingly having one purpose; to uplift and support Alessia.

“Yes, you are powerful.” Silas said. “Beyond powerful, but the power is inside you because your heart is deserving of it. Your spirit is deserving. The kind of magic you have is special and rare, and it isn’t given by the universe freely.”

I really enjoyed Cursed. It had all of what I want from a fantasy. I couldn’t give it 5 stars because I was left with so many unanswered questions. Bring on the rest of the series!

Thank you NetGalley and LaManna Books for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

First of all I would like to thank Netgalley and the free copy of the book.

Unfortunately I had to DNF this book. I really loved the premise and some moments of the characters, but overall I felt like the characters were all over the place and that there was a lot of information but it wasn't developed. I stopped reading this book at 60% and at this point a lot of the answers that should have been answered still weren't.

I’d definitely recommend this book if you enjoyed the tv series “once upon a time” because it was really giving these vibes for some reason I can’t explain 😆 Also if you enjoyed the wedding scene in ACOMAF (if you know, you know) then also give this book a try!

This was an enjoyable read, it was giving cozy fantasy with some shadow daddy aspects. A woman is taken on her wedding day to a mysterious world full of magic and curses. I won’t say anymore to spoil the plot.

The book is on the shorter side and fast paced which I enjoyed because sometimes fantasy genre books just take soooo long to get through and I loved being able to read this in one sitting. If you are looking for an easy read and a pallet cleanser give this a try!

Thank you to LaManna Books and Gina LaManna for the EARC!

Publish date - January 1st (out now)

If I had to sum up Cursed in one sentence, it would be: a witty, modern twist on fantasy clichés that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to pack an emotional punch.

The book kicks off with a bang—Chapter 1 is basically a modern-day spin on A Court of Mist and Fury’s infamous wedding chapter, complete with snarky humor and self-aware commentary. From the very beginning, this book had me laughing out loud as it gently poked fun at both fantasy tropes and modern-day quirks (Harry Potter references, anyone?).

One of my favorite aspects was how the curse in the story was portrayed. It’s not just a vague, looming evil that needs to be defeated—it’s an almost sentient, layered thing desperately fighting to survive. It’s a refreshing twist that adds depth without becoming overly complicated. I couldn’t help but want to peel back all the layers and figure it out.

The FMC (female main character) is such a relatable delight. She’s caffeine-obsessed (a girl after my own heart) and her reaction to a baby unicorn is exactly how I imagine most of us would respond—with a mix of shock and giddy excitement. Her authenticity really shines through, and that’s a core theme of the book: being true to yourself, even when the world demands otherwise.

I also appreciated the balance between the fantasy world and her old life in New York. When we returned to NYC halfway through, it added an emotional depth I didn’t expect—it was heartbreaking yet grounded the story in a relatable way.

The book is packed with fun references, including Greek mythology and subtle nods to fantasy staples. Sure, it makes jokes about “A Court of Ice and Emptiness” and ends with talk of mates, but rather than feeling derivative, it leans into these tropes with a self-aware charm.

At around 300 pages, it’s a quick and breezy read—it honestly felt like 50 pages. While the last 20% takes a turn for the action-packed, I did find the ending a touch too convenient. That said, it seems like there’s a sequel on the horizon, so I’m curious to see where the story goes next!

This book is perfect for anyone looking for:
• A lighthearted fantasy that’s great for getting out of a slump.
• A fun, self-aware take on popular tropes without the heavy world-building.
• A story with a strong found-family vibe and laugh-out-loud humor.

Yes, there’s a curse and everyone might die, but there’s also a baby unicorn. What more could you want?

An easy to read fantasy with a bit of romance. Millie was a fun side character and added a lot of hilarious comments. I appreciated the banter between the main characters, Silas and Allessia, but the chemistry didn't feel on fire. I really enjoyed the story's pacing and it reads well. The plot is a lot of fun. It's just not a steamy book and although it feels YA it does seem like a younger audience wouldn't relate to the main character as easily. The story is great. I would definitely continue the series.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc of this book. Cursed is the first book in the Court of Isles series by Gina LaManna. This is the first book I have read by this author and I absolutely loved it. I will definitely be reading more of this author's books. This book has a solid female main character and an intriguing male main character. This book has mystery and intrigue. This is a solid read. Once I started this book, I did not want to put it down. I cannot wait to read book two of Court of Isles.

Alessia has never felt like she belonged in her own life - despite an expensive wedding, working as a doctor and with a fabulous life in New York City. So when her wedding is interrupted by a gorgeous guy, Alessia quickly learns that New York is not where she belongs - but on a magic island, which desperately needs her help.

Reading this book on a snowy January, I couldn't help but be jealous of Alessia travelling to an island with constant beautiful, tropical weather (even if it's off of Lake Superior.) I also really enjoyed getting to see Alessia practicing medicine in a tropical land - whether it's Outlander or Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman, it's always fun to see fantasy doctors solve something as ordinary as Lyme disease. It was also so interesting to see all the fantasy creatures living together in more or less harmony!

I was disappointed that the book bought so much into an idea of characters having a specific destined place on the Isle. Whether it was housekeeper Millie only being able to use the magic as a "common fairy" or Alessia being the only one who can protect the Isle, I wish the book had balanced a bit more of a message of determining your own future with the idea of destiny.

Lighthearted, quick and easy, non-spicy romantasy read. Felt a little YA but I'm not mad about it. I'm not sure I would necessarily seek out this series but it was a fun little palate cleanser for me between heavier books.

This book was a really solid, quick read and a nice way to start the new year. While I've read this author before, I haven't read her Isle/Magical series. I think readers might benefit from reading the other books set on the Isle, but I didn't feel lost or confused.

I do wish we had learned more about Alessia and her past. I mean, there had to be some signs of her magic before, right? I just think this book would have benefited from being a little longer with more training scenes, information about her parents, and just things to fill in the gaps. I loved all the side characters and felt they were well written and described.

Silas was a solid MMC but again, I'd just love to know just a little more about his past. His interactions with her brother were some of my favorites. I wouldn't be mad to see more of Atlas in this series.

All in all, the book was a good read. It does make me want to read the other magical books the author has.

It was a very quick and easy read but well written. It’s a story of magic, love, and self discovery. I thought it was a very light and beautiful romance.

This is a captivating read for fans of fantasy romance who crave a story of self-discovery, love, and empowerment, as it weaves together elements of magic, adventure, and the struggle to find one's true identity and purpose.

It is an easy, quick read; the characters are likeable and well thought out. The relationship between Alessia and Silas was written well and was believable. My only gripe was that it got a bit slow-paced through the middle. Overall, it is a sweet, clean romance with magic thrown in 3.5 stars!

Overall I thought this book was okay. The book fell into a trap of telling and not showing, which is why it ultimately fell flat for me as I couldn’t find myself immersed in the magical isle or its characters. I truly think this novel had a lot of potential had the author put more development into the world and character building. The first chapter is so good, throwing us right into our main character being taken from her wedding by a mysterious man, but everything after that isn’t really shocking. My biggest complaint is our protagonist doesn’t find out she is fae until about 70% into the book, but we readers know that going into it from the description.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Cursed by Gina LaManna is so so good. I rated it 5 stars because I loved the experience of reading this book. Lovely characters, lovely storyline.

Shorter length, spice free (only a bit of kissing seen) fantasy romance.

Alessia is like a character in her own life.  She seems to have zero input in anything she does - her one small rebellion was being a family doctor rather than a fancy surgeon like her dad.  She doesn't even seem to like her fiancé, never mind being excited to marry him!  So when a dashing stranger storms into her wedding and saves her from marrying the egotistical jerk, she gladly runs off with him.

However, finding herself on a hidden magical isle in the middle of the Great Lakes was unexpected to say the least.  This island has a plague besieging its inhabitants and they are in dire need of a doctor to help them.  But what they really need is a Queen.

Silas and Alessia were a great match.  He, the enigmatic hero and her the runaway bride, doctor and, it would appear, late blooming magic wielder! Silas is kind and daring, a lover of his people and righter of wrongs.  He's also a bit of a feminist and is big on making sure that Alessia knows her word is his order, he's really big on consent!

The secondary characters are fun, friendly and charming - I especially loved Mollie and Ranger X.  I'd really love to see more of them in future books, they were a bit like NPC's - they didn't have a whole lot to do with the story really. I would have liked to have gone a bit more in-depth on worldbuilding but this series does interconnect with another set in the same world so reading those may fill in some of the gaps for me.

I would have liked to have seen a few flaws in our MC's.  Alessia is all a bit perfect and polished for me and Silas needed an annoying habit or something to dirty up the perfect! I just wanted them both to work a wee bit harder for the respect and adoration they were afforded.

Would I Recommend The Book?: No

Objective Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Subjective Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Romance/Spice Rating: 🌶️ ½ [Some kissing]

Violence Rating: 🗡️

SFW/NSFW: SFW

Potential Content Warnings:
Illnesses and ailment, impromptu birth scene, mentions and discussions of blood, some minor violence, fist fights, brief discussion of institutionalization, neglectful and bad parent system, toxic relationship with ex fiancé

Additional Comments:
This book entertained me while I was reading it. It was a good palate cleanser, and it was interesting enough to keep me engaged. I really liked the vibes, and it reminded me a lot of a Disney Film and the aesthetics that come along with it.

I also really liked the characterization of all the side characters. They were often very distinct and had distinct appearances.
Silas and Alessia have some snarky fun chemistry between them that’s fun to read. I really like the dynamic between them. I really appreciate how Silas is big on consent and really emphasizes Alessia’s consent in the situation she’s in. I don’t often see books do that and I really like that. He's not toxic.
I also really liked how there was this encouragement for Alessia to engage in healthy habits, such as taking breaks and having active self care. I really appreciated it, because it’s not something that I see in writing very often, authors don’t often do that.
However, this is nothing groundbreaking. A lot of the concepts are interesting, but it feels like we don’t linger on them long enough. I wish that some of it was lingered on or developed more outside of conversation.

The side characters, while I like the characterization, were often static and had no character development throughout the story. We’re told things about these characters that we’re never really shown. This book has a really bad habit of telling things about our characters and setting without any description. The entire book feels like “Tell Don’t Show” and the entire book was a series of conversations- and the conversations just gave the same information repeatedly. Alessia rarely spends time alone, and rarely develops.

Please bare in mind I don’t give this criticism lightly:The main protagonist almost feels like a Mary-Sue. She catches onto things quickly without much training or struggle, she can see things that nobody else is able to notice, and has an amount of power that nobody has seen in a very long time. The struggles she does have throughout the novel are hand waved away because of her magic. All conflict is solved by the end of each chapter. We’re told she’s intelligent but we’re never really shown. She’s sarcastic, and she is a victim of her life before ending up on The Isles, but other than that she has no meaningful flaws that negatively impact her decisions or her character. Nearly everyone on the Isles likes her, or at the very least respects her, because of her magic and none of it really feels earned. I wish she had been developed more. I wish we got to see her before she was whisked away to this magical world. Everything was handed to her.

I wish that we had gotten to see more of Alessia’s story before she gets whisked away to this magical world. We only really see one chapter and were told a lot about the relationship with her parents and fiancé. I think that her character could have benefited greatly from having a bit more time to develop herself as a skeptic and as someone who is lonely.

Overall, this book was okay. It was enjoyable while I was reading it, but I was a little disappointed with the final product.

Cursed is a fast-paced book that I couldn’t read fast enough to find out what happens. We meet Alessia the day of her wedding as she is ‘kidnapped’ by Silas, a mysterious man. She goes to a magical island and for the first time ever, feels like she’s at home… the only problem is a curse that is killing islanders. Alessia has to discover herself, rethink her beliefs, and fight for what she believes in. Thank you NetGalley and LaManna Books for the eARC.

As someone who has never ventured into the world of fantasy books—being a realist who often struggles to connect with magical or otherworldly characters—I was genuinely surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. This book, about a lost soul who happens to be a doctor and discovers she is a long-lost Fae in an enchanting "otherworld," completely shifted my perspective on the genre.

What made this book stand out for me was how relatable the protagonist was. Like me, she begins the story as a skeptic, questioning the existence of magic and the otherworldly realm she finds herself in. It felt like we were on this journey together, slowly learning about and coming to terms with this fantastical world. The author did an exceptional job of explaining this new realm in a way that felt immersive and easy to follow, making it an enjoyable and seamless introduction to fantasy.

I also appreciated the balance between the fantastical elements and the grounding connections to reality. The descriptions of the otherworld were vivid and captivating, pulling me in completely, and the main character’s journey was easy to connect with—I found myself rooting for her throughout.

What makes this book particularly unique is its character-driven narrative. While there is a love story woven into the plot, it doesn’t overshadow the protagonist’s personal growth and the overall story. The action-packed sequences added an element of excitement that kept me hooked and made it hard to put the book down.

There were a few repetitive moments in the writing, but they weren’t distracting enough to diminish my enjoyment. The book does have a young adult vibe, which may be common for fantasy stories, though I can’t say for sure as a newcomer to the genre.

Overall, I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who, like me, is new to fantasy. It’s a fantastic introduction to the genre and proves that even a realist can fall in love with a story about Faes and magic. It’s a journey well worth taking!