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Dark Tales #1
La Maldición de Barba Azul (Cuentos Oscuros)
¿Podrás resistir la tentación?
El Rey Erik Thorsen, también conocido como Barba Azul, ha enviudado una vez más. Como todas las anteriores, su difunta esposa sucumbió a la atracción de la maldición que lo atormenta y amenaza al reino.
Mientras doncellas dispuestas se reúnen en el castillo con la esperanza de ser elegidas, Erik pone sus ojos en una belleza dorada llamada Astrid. Sin embargo, convertirse en su reina tiene un precio muy alto. La nueva novia del Rey debe resistir la tentación durante un año y un día... o morir en el intento.
¿Será Astrid la siguiente en caer ante lo que hay más allá de la Puerta Sellada?
El Rey Erik Thorsen, también conocido como Barba Azul, ha enviudado una vez más. Como todas las anteriores, su difunta esposa sucumbió a la atracción de la maldición que lo atormenta y amenaza al reino.
Mientras doncellas dispuestas se reúnen en el castillo con la esperanza de ser elegidas, Erik pone sus ojos en una belleza dorada llamada Astrid. Sin embargo, convertirse en su reina tiene un precio muy alto. La nueva novia del Rey debe resistir la tentación durante un año y un día... o morir en el intento.
¿Será Astrid la siguiente en caer ante lo que hay más allá de la Puerta Sellada?
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 15, 2017
119 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
About the author
Regine Abel
86 books2,668 followersUSA Today bestselling author Regine Abel is a fantasy, paranormal, and sci-fi junkie. Anything with a bit of magic, a touch of the unusual, and a lot of romance will have her jumping for joy. She loves writing hot alien warriors meeting no-nonsense, kick-ass heroines. Her novels are steamy, action-packed, and with the twists and turns you never saw coming.
Before devoting herself as a full-time writer, Regine had surrendered to her other passions: music and video games! After a decade working as a Sound Engineer in movie dubbing and live concerts, Regine became a professional Game Designer and Creative Director, a career that has led her from her home in Canada to the US and various countries in Europe and Asia.
Before devoting herself as a full-time writer, Regine had surrendered to her other passions: music and video games! After a decade working as a Sound Engineer in movie dubbing and live concerts, Regine became a professional Game Designer and Creative Director, a career that has led her from her home in Canada to the US and various countries in Europe and Asia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
May 14, 2023
I'm prefacing this review with the fact that I've been in a terrible book mood for days so this reading experience very well could just be me. I've been fascinated with the Bluebeard tale since I was a kid so I was also very excited to read this. My mood was rotten and my expectations may have been too high basically.
The premise of the book is that the king of this fantasy kingdom is cursed and the only way to break it is for his wife to resist temptation for a year. He's had 27 wives in 14 years (I think) and the shortest lasted 24 hours while the longest lasted 6 months. The book begins at the ball where the king will pick the newest maiden that will hopefully, but not likely, succeed. I liked the h with how observant and practical she was. I liked the H less because so much of the time on page with him was devoted to his lust for the h and his despair over the curse. In fact, much of the story's focus is on the curse and it made both main characters fall flat for me emotionally and romantically. I wasn't sure what type of relationship they'd have or how their daily lives would look post-curse breaking. Their love was sweet, even though the H worried about deeper emotions when all these other wives had failed, and when they worked together it was great. The day to day details that were included and the character traits just didn't pull me towards their romance unfortunately. But there's lots of steamy times, because the H makes it clear he has appetites upon their first meeting, which the h enjoys. Written in first person, dual POV. No om drama, ow drama from a woman who thought she’d be the next wife who the H rejects. H is not a virgin and h is a virgin (there's very little info about his personal life with the past wives and he never loved any of them but it's implied he must have slept with at least some of them).
The story behind the curse and the villain are slowly revealed. The H could have (and had in the past) revealed these details earlier, but it didn't go well and I think it did a disservice to the h personally. Side characters are present, but the H, h, and villain are the primary roles in the story for reasons. There's tension, drama, and suspense, but these two do get their HEA. Then the epilogue focused more on something related to their child (which is a spoiler) and even though they got their HEA and it was cute, that part also fell flat for me. This one just wasn't a winner for me, but I do think it would work for others just fine and it was interesting because I don't think I've read a romance with a Bluebeard retelling.
The premise of the book is that the king of this fantasy kingdom is cursed and the only way to break it is for his wife to resist temptation for a year. He's had 27 wives in 14 years (I think) and the shortest lasted 24 hours while the longest lasted 6 months. The book begins at the ball where the king will pick the newest maiden that will hopefully, but not likely, succeed. I liked the h with how observant and practical she was. I liked the H less because so much of the time on page with him was devoted to his lust for the h and his despair over the curse. In fact, much of the story's focus is on the curse and it made both main characters fall flat for me emotionally and romantically. I wasn't sure what type of relationship they'd have or how their daily lives would look post-curse breaking. Their love was sweet, even though the H worried about deeper emotions when all these other wives had failed, and when they worked together it was great. The day to day details that were included and the character traits just didn't pull me towards their romance unfortunately. But there's lots of steamy times, because the H makes it clear he has appetites upon their first meeting, which the h enjoys. Written in first person, dual POV. No om drama, ow drama from a woman who thought she’d be the next wife who the H rejects. H is not a virgin and h is a virgin (there's very little info about his personal life with the past wives and he never loved any of them but it's implied he must have slept with at least some of them).
The story behind the curse and the villain are slowly revealed. The H could have (and had in the past) revealed these details earlier, but it didn't go well and I think it did a disservice to the h personally. Side characters are present, but the H, h, and villain are the primary roles in the story for reasons. There's tension, drama, and suspense, but these two do get their HEA. Then the epilogue focused more on something related to their child (which is a spoiler) and even though they got their HEA and it was cute, that part also fell flat for me. This one just wasn't a winner for me, but I do think it would work for others just fine and it was interesting because I don't think I've read a romance with a Bluebeard retelling.
February 4, 2017
I picked up this one because, you know, sometimes I'm in the mood for a cursed king who might or might not be killing his wives. I can only assume others have this craving because CURSED KINGS ROCK!
But I digress. I picked up this book wanting a cursed king and I got a cursed king. *fist pump* I also got a strong-willed woman who quite inconveniently fell in love with her king after they married. Well, I say inconveniently, but that's more because there's the whole threat of death thing if she fails in the challenge set before her. It was good that they fell in love. Marriages should be all gooey with love. But expecting to die makes those feelings rough to handle for both of them.
The point I'm trying to make is that I enjoyed this book. Quite a bit. King Eric was hopeful, but resigned. Astrid had a steel spine that was sorely tested by the challenge presented to her. Together, they were smokin'. Which is another thing I enjoy in books starring cursed kings--smokin' hot sexy times.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
But I digress. I picked up this book wanting a cursed king and I got a cursed king. *fist pump* I also got a strong-willed woman who quite inconveniently fell in love with her king after they married. Well, I say inconveniently, but that's more because there's the whole threat of death thing if she fails in the challenge set before her. It was good that they fell in love. Marriages should be all gooey with love. But expecting to die makes those feelings rough to handle for both of them.
The point I'm trying to make is that I enjoyed this book. Quite a bit. King Eric was hopeful, but resigned. Astrid had a steel spine that was sorely tested by the challenge presented to her. Together, they were smokin'. Which is another thing I enjoy in books starring cursed kings--smokin' hot sexy times.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 27, 2020
I love Bluebeard legend. I've always sensed that there's a good potential for a bad guy redemption in the story.
Well, the author is not exploring the redemption theme here. Eric is a mysterious but liable character from the beginning, still the story was very good. For a short book, the author managed to include a solid plot line, an old legend, a mystery, hot sex and interesting characters! I have no idea how she fit it all in, but the result is very enjoyable!
Well, the author is not exploring the redemption theme here. Eric is a mysterious but liable character from the beginning, still the story was very good. For a short book, the author managed to include a solid plot line, an old legend, a mystery, hot sex and interesting characters! I have no idea how she fit it all in, but the result is very enjoyable!
October 11, 2023
3,5⭐️
Es un libro para pasar el rato.
Si, su contenido principal es romance y tiene bastante contenido 🌶️ pero está bien escrito, mucho mejor que otros libros que tienen más fama y más puntuación. Además tiene una trama a parte del romance que no ha estado mal, sobre todo porque me ha mantenido intrigada todo el tiempo e incluso me ha hecho dudar de los protagonistas.
Los personajes son algo planos, el es el típico buenorro de los libros de romance típicos y ella la chica voluptuosa y dulce que consigue su corazón. Por último está su enemiga, que es muy muy malvada como no. Y poco más se puede pedir, puesto que ni secundarios de interés aparecen.
El libro entretiene, se lee rápido y es una buena historia para sacar de un bloqueo lector, siempre y cuando se sepa que es lo que vamos a encontrar en este tipo de libros y vayamos sin grandes expectativas.
Me gustan por su sencillez. Y desde luego como ya he dicho, algunos como este, está muy por encima de otras publicaciones más ambiciosas que son un auténtico bodrio.
Es un libro para pasar el rato.
Si, su contenido principal es romance y tiene bastante contenido 🌶️ pero está bien escrito, mucho mejor que otros libros que tienen más fama y más puntuación. Además tiene una trama a parte del romance que no ha estado mal, sobre todo porque me ha mantenido intrigada todo el tiempo e incluso me ha hecho dudar de los protagonistas.
Los personajes son algo planos, el es el típico buenorro de los libros de romance típicos y ella la chica voluptuosa y dulce que consigue su corazón. Por último está su enemiga, que es muy muy malvada como no. Y poco más se puede pedir, puesto que ni secundarios de interés aparecen.
El libro entretiene, se lee rápido y es una buena historia para sacar de un bloqueo lector, siempre y cuando se sepa que es lo que vamos a encontrar en este tipo de libros y vayamos sin grandes expectativas.
Me gustan por su sencillez. Y desde luego como ya he dicho, algunos como este, está muy por encima de otras publicaciones más ambiciosas que son un auténtico bodrio.
February 4, 2017
I betaread this paranormal historical short story and decided to review.
To keep his people safe, Eric must not be unmarried for more that ninety days. But the same curse means his brides always die before their first wedding anniversary and yet at each ball to choose his next bride, there are always beautiful maidens, hoping they will be the different one.
A well written, intriguing tale of bravery, reluctant love and hatred beyond the grave.
Recommended.
To keep his people safe, Eric must not be unmarried for more that ninety days. But the same curse means his brides always die before their first wedding anniversary and yet at each ball to choose his next bride, there are always beautiful maidens, hoping they will be the different one.
A well written, intriguing tale of bravery, reluctant love and hatred beyond the grave.
Recommended.
January 13, 2017
I'm a huge fan of Fantasy, so when I saw this had Romance and Erotica thrown in, there was no way I was passing up the chance to read. It's the kind of book you can get lost in while on the train coming home from work, cooking dinner, and even for those long nights on the couch where you just want to be somewhere else. Regine has done a fab job of taking us into a world of magic, romance, and lust. You can feel the pull between the hero and the heroine throughout, and the resistance when things start to get bad. I love the castle. The description is superb and so real that I felt I was there, especially in the cold weather. I adored the heroine. She started out innocent and nervous, having left home and her entire family, but grew in character throughout the book, and to me, there is no better reason to grow as a person than love.
5 sexy smashing stars (and a thanks to the author for showing me that short stories are just as enjoyable as long stories)
5 sexy smashing stars (and a thanks to the author for showing me that short stories are just as enjoyable as long stories)
March 1, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! It was everything a great fairytale should be and more!!! Eric and Astrid's chemistry was immediate and simply electric.
The power of love: Eric wants to give all of his heart to one woman, but they keep dying on him, and he has lost his faith that he will ever get his HEA. Astrid is a strong heroine who is determined to conquer the curse and spend forever with the man she has fallen in love with. After 28 tries, will there finally be a "Happily Ever After"? Read and see!
The plot for this story was very innovative, intricately woven and kept me in suspense, quickly turning page after page, right up to the end. I finished this novella in one sitting, because I just couldn't put it down. The characters were engaging and beautifully complex. The descriptive details painted vivid pictures and made everything about the story and characters come alive in my mind's eye. The twists were well-done and caught me totally off guard.
I am ready and willing to read more by Abel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.
The power of love: Eric wants to give all of his heart to one woman, but they keep dying on him, and he has lost his faith that he will ever get his HEA. Astrid is a strong heroine who is determined to conquer the curse and spend forever with the man she has fallen in love with. After 28 tries, will there finally be a "Happily Ever After"? Read and see!
The plot for this story was very innovative, intricately woven and kept me in suspense, quickly turning page after page, right up to the end. I finished this novella in one sitting, because I just couldn't put it down. The characters were engaging and beautifully complex. The descriptive details painted vivid pictures and made everything about the story and characters come alive in my mind's eye. The twists were well-done and caught me totally off guard.
I am ready and willing to read more by Abel!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary and honest review, should I choose to do so.
October 28, 2022
3.6 stars
Hmm, a very interesting take on the Bluebeard story, complete with a door hiding the corpses of the previous brides (27, yikes!). But besides that, you certainly won't expect the surprisingly complex story packed in this novella. There was a romance at the centre of it, but what really shined through was the darkish fairytale shared by RA. What a wonderful creative mind she has!
I have to admit that it upset me a little to gauge the number of brides that Eric has bedded before Astrid. It was not explicitly said but while with each new handfasting he had grown pessimist of ever forsaking the curse, the impression I had was that it did not prevent him from enjoying his brides for however short time they would be alive. He did not come across as a manwh0re but his detachment to enjoy his marital rights despite the inevitable horror bothered me somehow. Yes, he did imply that he never allowed himself to grow attached to his brides and never found as good a release before Astrid but it still rankled.
Also, I can understand that the failures in the last 14 years would have made him desultory, but still his lack of faith in Astrid was sad to see. He came across as a helpless victim who could not even try to assuage Astrid's apprehensions with facts, and actually help her fight (and not just hope she holds on to her promise by herself). She had to discover and guess so many things by herself. Doesn't Eric know that more mishaps are likely to occur when so many things remain unnervingly unsaid. Frowning and giving her the cold shoulder is more likely to foster fertile ground for disaster than explaining hard facts. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail! Eric did grow out a bit of his beta personality after the first big fright, but at month 9 it felt a bit late in the game. On a related note, that was plain dumb of him to leave her side with 4 days to go, to organise the wedding - as if this could not wait and he could not reasonably expect the 'temptation' (btw, quite a misleading misnomer imho) to grow to unbearable pitch level. Thankfully for him, Astrid is such a strong and resolute heroine. She was the one who had to go through it all, and she even made him believe again. I am glad she had a final hand in saving the day.
Despite my opinion on an Eric who could do better as a stronger H, I enjoyed the fairytale spun by RA. A longer epilogue or a short story, after the hardships they went through would have been welcomed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2017
Uh oh, steamy! It's a retelling of Bluebeard, with a tinge of the Little Mermaid I think, it's well written and interesting. A quick, fun and at times creepy read.
August 27, 2018
Thank you very much to Regine Abel for providing a copy of her novella in exchange for an honest review.
Regine Abel’s Bluebeard’s Curse is a romantic and charming novella that captures the reader’s heart in the first few pages.
The novel is loosely based on the tale of Bluebeard and follows King Eric Thorsen who finds himself widowed again after his latest wife perished to the alluring curse that has threatened the kingdom for decades. His queen has exactly one year and one day to break the mysterious curse but so far, none have prevailed; that is, until Astrid. Astrid is different from Eric’s other brides and he can’t help but fall for her, even though he knows he should not get attached. The longer Astrid stays alive, the more Eric falls for her, but the terrible curse is not far behind and the monster behind it has its sights set on destroying Astrid and the kingdom itself.
I haven’t read a proper romance novel in over a year and I’m so thankful that I was reintroduced to this genre through Bluebeard’s Curse. The novella is an imaginative and compelling retelling of the French folktale. In the original story, Bluebeard, an ugly and cruel nobleman, has been married many times to beautiful women, all of who had disappeared. He leaves his new wife in command of the palace and informs her she can go into any room except for the dungeon downstairs. She is eventually overcome with desire and opens the room to find the dead bodies of Bluebeard’s other wives, hanging on the walls.
Abel has taken the classic and frightening elements of the folktale and transformed them into a beautiful and captivating love story – I don’t know how she did it because, in reality, the aspects of the original tale could not possibly make for a touching romance, and yet it has. That can certainly be attributed to Abel’s outstanding writing, which flows naturally and allows for the scenes to progress gracefully.
I found myself connecting deeply with Astrid, when I didn’t think I would have. At the beginning of the novel, I thought she would be another take on that stereotypical female romance character: the distressed virgin who can’t seem to do anything without her male lover. I was elated when that wasn’t the case – Astrid’s character develops from a quiet, restrained and unassuming young woman into the heroine of the novella, which is another superb modification from the original folktale.
I knew I would love Eric, as I adore all misunderstood and tragic love interests, so no surprises when I fell for him from from the beginning of the novella. He was everything a brooding, handsome and powerful male character with a secret history needs to be. I enjoyed his relationship with Astrid and how it evolved. Despite the short length of the novel, you can’t help but genuinely come to care about Eric and Astrid, and eventually root for them to overcome the curse and have a deserved happy ending.
As this is the first (hetero) romance I have read in a while, I didn’t know what to expect from the sex scenes – whether they would be too in your face or unnecessarily verbose and adding nothing to the story. Abel’s flowing language adds a sense of eloquence to the sex scenes. As a result, the scenes were both stirring and tender; romantic and sentimental.
The plot progresses quickly due to the narrative length, but that does not hinder the story in any way. The novella covers one year and one day swiftly but also allows for the climax to develop naturally. There were several plot twists I did not foresee, and I sincerely adored the conclusion.
Bluebeard’s Curse is an alluring and touching novella that reshaped a terrifying folktale into an enchanting romance. I look forward to seeing what else Abel has in store for us.
Check out my blog and other reviews: thebookcorps.wordpress.com
Regine Abel’s Bluebeard’s Curse is a romantic and charming novella that captures the reader’s heart in the first few pages.
The novel is loosely based on the tale of Bluebeard and follows King Eric Thorsen who finds himself widowed again after his latest wife perished to the alluring curse that has threatened the kingdom for decades. His queen has exactly one year and one day to break the mysterious curse but so far, none have prevailed; that is, until Astrid. Astrid is different from Eric’s other brides and he can’t help but fall for her, even though he knows he should not get attached. The longer Astrid stays alive, the more Eric falls for her, but the terrible curse is not far behind and the monster behind it has its sights set on destroying Astrid and the kingdom itself.
I haven’t read a proper romance novel in over a year and I’m so thankful that I was reintroduced to this genre through Bluebeard’s Curse. The novella is an imaginative and compelling retelling of the French folktale. In the original story, Bluebeard, an ugly and cruel nobleman, has been married many times to beautiful women, all of who had disappeared. He leaves his new wife in command of the palace and informs her she can go into any room except for the dungeon downstairs. She is eventually overcome with desire and opens the room to find the dead bodies of Bluebeard’s other wives, hanging on the walls.
Abel has taken the classic and frightening elements of the folktale and transformed them into a beautiful and captivating love story – I don’t know how she did it because, in reality, the aspects of the original tale could not possibly make for a touching romance, and yet it has. That can certainly be attributed to Abel’s outstanding writing, which flows naturally and allows for the scenes to progress gracefully.
I found myself connecting deeply with Astrid, when I didn’t think I would have. At the beginning of the novel, I thought she would be another take on that stereotypical female romance character: the distressed virgin who can’t seem to do anything without her male lover. I was elated when that wasn’t the case – Astrid’s character develops from a quiet, restrained and unassuming young woman into the heroine of the novella, which is another superb modification from the original folktale.
I knew I would love Eric, as I adore all misunderstood and tragic love interests, so no surprises when I fell for him from from the beginning of the novella. He was everything a brooding, handsome and powerful male character with a secret history needs to be. I enjoyed his relationship with Astrid and how it evolved. Despite the short length of the novel, you can’t help but genuinely come to care about Eric and Astrid, and eventually root for them to overcome the curse and have a deserved happy ending.
As this is the first (hetero) romance I have read in a while, I didn’t know what to expect from the sex scenes – whether they would be too in your face or unnecessarily verbose and adding nothing to the story. Abel’s flowing language adds a sense of eloquence to the sex scenes. As a result, the scenes were both stirring and tender; romantic and sentimental.
The plot progresses quickly due to the narrative length, but that does not hinder the story in any way. The novella covers one year and one day swiftly but also allows for the climax to develop naturally. There were several plot twists I did not foresee, and I sincerely adored the conclusion.
Bluebeard’s Curse is an alluring and touching novella that reshaped a terrifying folktale into an enchanting romance. I look forward to seeing what else Abel has in store for us.
Check out my blog and other reviews: thebookcorps.wordpress.com
January 15, 2017
I highly recommend this book. It has it all. Myths, evil witches and of course a love story. Our main characters (Eric-Astrid) will fight with all their powers in order for their love to prevail . I loved Astrid and her goodness. It's really a book that you must read .
October 12, 2017
This quick Read novella was so awesome it reminded me of a twist between Beauty and The Beast and Sleeping Beauty and Snow White. I absolutely love Eric and Astrid’s they are really good together. I like the fact that Eric has a good heart and that Astrid is trying to conquer the Curse. This was a true fairytale story that I will read over and over again.
April 26, 2017
This is a short, but very fun read. There's great suspense throughout the book, as to what the mystery is, why the other wives have failed. Will this one fail? I love it, totally love it.
The author puts a unique spin on a romance story. And yes, I would read her books again.
The author puts a unique spin on a romance story. And yes, I would read her books again.
October 15, 2023
2’5 Estrellas. Para ser un libro de esta autora, lo he encontrado poco hot.
#Popsugar23 Reto 14: Un retelling (una versión) moderno de un clásico.
#Popsugar23 Reto 14: Un retelling (una versión) moderno de un clásico.
February 10, 2017
I have to say I was surprised at the quality of this book since I was told it was Regina Abel's debut. I honestly found it new and intriguing. Which is hard to find when I alone have read more than 300 books on one year. I have found myself steering away from books in the paranormal field but this book brought back my paranormal love full force. Regina's style and the depth in which she portrayed the setting had me mesmerized. I felt like I could visualize the entire thing. Once I started I just couldn't stop. If you have a love of paranormal books or have found that the ones you have read to all be the same. Try Bluebeard's Curse. You won't be disappointed. I can not wait to read more from this author.
February 5, 2017
This book was riveting ! I read it twice in a 2 day span. This is a great read for anyone who likes romance , mystery and murder. The only thing that was missing was MORE.... lol
December 27, 2018
Highly recommended
A lovely twisted tale about a man named Eric and his twenty-seven dead wives. Astrid is to be number twenty-eight. It is up to her on whether she can resist temptation for a year and a day and extinguish the curse.
There is magic, mer, treachery, love, betrayals and strength embedded in this story.
I highly recommend that you read this book if you like fairy tales and happy ever afters! I am excited to read more!
A lovely twisted tale about a man named Eric and his twenty-seven dead wives. Astrid is to be number twenty-eight. It is up to her on whether she can resist temptation for a year and a day and extinguish the curse.
There is magic, mer, treachery, love, betrayals and strength embedded in this story.
I highly recommend that you read this book if you like fairy tales and happy ever afters! I am excited to read more!
July 20, 2020
Short. Only a little over 100 pages.
Whenever his wife dies, cursed King Eric Thorsen needs a new bride or the kraken will return to destroy any vessels in the ocean. With her family falling on hard times, Lady Astrid attends the ball, and catches Eric’s attention. He handfasts with her immediately, and introduces her to the technical of the curse. He gives her a nautilus shell medallion with 31 sections that will light up for each day of the month and then at the beginning of the month, she needs to insert it into the mysterious door in the castle dungeon and turn it counter-clockwise, releasing the energy of the medallion into the sigils surrounding the door. She must do that for an entire year, and when done, the curse will be over. But he warns her that all of his other brides fell to temptation.
Fairytale re-telling of the Bluebeard tale, but it is far different from the original tale with a few common elements, which I love originality and new spins. Astrid is a sympathetic point of view and easy to follow as she has sold her freedom for the future of her father and sister and embarked into a scary unknown future with Eric with the knowledge that his brides die within a year. But the scary future she finds is not without its perks. In the original tale, Bluebeard is gruff, scary, and obviously full of evil. In this spin, King Eric is a glorious lover and insatiable, loves and tries to please his brides, and yes, there is plenty of sexy romance here, which I approve of. Eric himself is rather full of himself (being king, that’s to be expected), but he does have a vulnerable, insecure side, too, since he knows he has lost brides before, he knows not every woman would want to be with him, and he is mysterious and holds a lot of secrets, as well as with his brides falling to the curse, he knows he can’t trust his entire heart in a relationship that probably won’t last. The setting is also a wonderful thing, with the lonely lavish palace, and the rambling grounds, and the scared servants who avoid making eye contact. I loved the gothic feel to the entire story with the romantic and lavish setting, with the air of darkness looming over the story, waiting for whatever doom was to befall our heroine, and it did creep out of the darkness to tempt and deceive her. I knocked a point off mainly because of the tediousness of the actions she had to do with the curse and there were details with the curse that just didn’t make any sense. Like where did the power come from that powered the shell that she had to release into the lattice work? It really didn’t make any sense that he didn’t tell her sooner exactly what the temptation that she had to avoid was. It didn’t make any sense of why she couldn’t be tied down to stop herself from walking into temptation (the only explanation was that it went against the curse. But why?) This is still a beautiful romance, even with its overly complicated explanation, and can be read as a stand-alone.
Whenever his wife dies, cursed King Eric Thorsen needs a new bride or the kraken will return to destroy any vessels in the ocean. With her family falling on hard times, Lady Astrid attends the ball, and catches Eric’s attention. He handfasts with her immediately, and introduces her to the technical of the curse. He gives her a nautilus shell medallion with 31 sections that will light up for each day of the month and then at the beginning of the month, she needs to insert it into the mysterious door in the castle dungeon and turn it counter-clockwise, releasing the energy of the medallion into the sigils surrounding the door. She must do that for an entire year, and when done, the curse will be over. But he warns her that all of his other brides fell to temptation.
Fairytale re-telling of the Bluebeard tale, but it is far different from the original tale with a few common elements, which I love originality and new spins. Astrid is a sympathetic point of view and easy to follow as she has sold her freedom for the future of her father and sister and embarked into a scary unknown future with Eric with the knowledge that his brides die within a year. But the scary future she finds is not without its perks. In the original tale, Bluebeard is gruff, scary, and obviously full of evil. In this spin, King Eric is a glorious lover and insatiable, loves and tries to please his brides, and yes, there is plenty of sexy romance here, which I approve of. Eric himself is rather full of himself (being king, that’s to be expected), but he does have a vulnerable, insecure side, too, since he knows he has lost brides before, he knows not every woman would want to be with him, and he is mysterious and holds a lot of secrets, as well as with his brides falling to the curse, he knows he can’t trust his entire heart in a relationship that probably won’t last. The setting is also a wonderful thing, with the lonely lavish palace, and the rambling grounds, and the scared servants who avoid making eye contact. I loved the gothic feel to the entire story with the romantic and lavish setting, with the air of darkness looming over the story, waiting for whatever doom was to befall our heroine, and it did creep out of the darkness to tempt and deceive her. I knocked a point off mainly because of the tediousness of the actions she had to do with the curse and there were details with the curse that just didn’t make any sense. Like where did the power come from that powered the shell that she had to release into the lattice work? It really didn’t make any sense that he didn’t tell her sooner exactly what the temptation that she had to avoid was. It didn’t make any sense of why she couldn’t be tied down to stop herself from walking into temptation (the only explanation was that it went against the curse. But why?) This is still a beautiful romance, even with its overly complicated explanation, and can be read as a stand-alone.
October 22, 2018
I enjoyed the story and characters.
This is a story of a long standing curse that could eventually doom not only the King but also the kingdom. There is mystery in a mystery, tense moments, hidden danger, twists, and unexpected love.
Once again it had become necessary, the curse would not allow further delay; for the gathering of maidens hoping to be the next queen. Fourteen years and twenty-seven previous brides, King Thorsen has had to repeat this grime (to him) gathering.
Among the gathering is Hilda; beautiful, greedy and arrogant. Her character did not automatically eliminate her because some of his previous twenty-seven brides had a similar temperament. Hilda is so sure she will be selected she announces this to the large crowd of young women around her.
King Eric overlooks the crowd of young women in the ballroom from the balcony and hears Hilda. He steps away from the edge and scans the room spotting a figure alone by the large bay window. As if sensing him she looks towards the balcony – he steps back but not before feeling an electric jolt. Turning to his majordomo, Tormund, he is told her name. King Thorsen made his way to the dance floor, dismissing the maidens including Hilda who had elbowed to the front. He proceeded to Astrid, asking for the first dance. His choice is made.
Hilda walks up to King Thorsen and Astrid and boldly asked to claim the second dance. Hilda’s conceit lead to her humiliation when told there would be no second dance.
Except for Eric and Tormund no one knew what the curse was only that the previous wives did not survive it. The downfall of his previous wives was temptation. The temptation’s details are only revealed after the wedding and must never be shared with anyone.
After the wedding Eric what was his gift to Astrid? What was the temptation?
What did Astrid find in the locked draw in the greenhouse? Was there a connection between what was found in the greenhouse and King Eric?
The king’s twenty-seventh wife lasted six months. How did she manage to resist the temptation?
This is a story of a long standing curse that could eventually doom not only the King but also the kingdom. There is mystery in a mystery, tense moments, hidden danger, twists, and unexpected love.
Once again it had become necessary, the curse would not allow further delay; for the gathering of maidens hoping to be the next queen. Fourteen years and twenty-seven previous brides, King Thorsen has had to repeat this grime (to him) gathering.
Among the gathering is Hilda; beautiful, greedy and arrogant. Her character did not automatically eliminate her because some of his previous twenty-seven brides had a similar temperament. Hilda is so sure she will be selected she announces this to the large crowd of young women around her.
King Eric overlooks the crowd of young women in the ballroom from the balcony and hears Hilda. He steps away from the edge and scans the room spotting a figure alone by the large bay window. As if sensing him she looks towards the balcony – he steps back but not before feeling an electric jolt. Turning to his majordomo, Tormund, he is told her name. King Thorsen made his way to the dance floor, dismissing the maidens including Hilda who had elbowed to the front. He proceeded to Astrid, asking for the first dance. His choice is made.
Hilda walks up to King Thorsen and Astrid and boldly asked to claim the second dance. Hilda’s conceit lead to her humiliation when told there would be no second dance.
Except for Eric and Tormund no one knew what the curse was only that the previous wives did not survive it. The downfall of his previous wives was temptation. The temptation’s details are only revealed after the wedding and must never be shared with anyone.
After the wedding Eric what was his gift to Astrid? What was the temptation?
What did Astrid find in the locked draw in the greenhouse? Was there a connection between what was found in the greenhouse and King Eric?
The king’s twenty-seventh wife lasted six months. How did she manage to resist the temptation?
May 22, 2017
I really wasn’t expecting much from this, but I snapped it up anyway thinking that, if nothing else, it would be a nice change of pace. I figured the ‘temptation’ Astrid would need to resist for a year would be sexual in nature (“no cock for you until sunset on the 366th day”) and the next 80-something pages would be her agonizing over how irresistible Eric was…
That, ladies and gentlemen, was not what happened.
“Bluebeard’s Curse” had PLOT! Yes, there was steamy sex (not as much as I expected, considering it’s listed as erotica on Amazon), but that was more to show the growing connection between Eric and his newest queen. The challenge facing Astrid was dire and devious and much more complex than I expected, and it was quite unique and well thought out. In all honesty, Ms. Abel could have made this a full-length novel without losing any of the intrigue, danger, or romance. In fact, I wish she had. There were elements to this story that felt a little glossed-over—not to the detriment of the tale, really, but enough to make me want more detail.
Read the full review at http://redhotbooks.com/2017/02/review...
That, ladies and gentlemen, was not what happened.
“Bluebeard’s Curse” had PLOT! Yes, there was steamy sex (not as much as I expected, considering it’s listed as erotica on Amazon), but that was more to show the growing connection between Eric and his newest queen. The challenge facing Astrid was dire and devious and much more complex than I expected, and it was quite unique and well thought out. In all honesty, Ms. Abel could have made this a full-length novel without losing any of the intrigue, danger, or romance. In fact, I wish she had. There were elements to this story that felt a little glossed-over—not to the detriment of the tale, really, but enough to make me want more detail.
Read the full review at http://redhotbooks.com/2017/02/review...
June 12, 2025
An interesting take on the Bluebeard tale
I needed a diversion from the spate of mystery / thrillers I’ve been reading and this little gem was just the ticket. Magical curses, romance, and fantasy in a novella-sized package? Yes please!
Most are likely already familiar with the tale of Bluebeard’s Curse, but this novella delivers a fresh take on a familiar theme. Yes, there’s insta-love (even if our MMC Eric tries to deny it). Yes, there’s mistrust / mis-placed trust from our FMC Astrid. There’s even magical merfolk thrown in the mix.
For as short as this tale was I still felt like we got a great handle on Astrid’s personality. But Eric’s own personality felt a little flat to me, hence the 4 stars. Irregardless, this is still a great read and a delightful way to pass some time.
I needed a diversion from the spate of mystery / thrillers I’ve been reading and this little gem was just the ticket. Magical curses, romance, and fantasy in a novella-sized package? Yes please!
Most are likely already familiar with the tale of Bluebeard’s Curse, but this novella delivers a fresh take on a familiar theme. Yes, there’s insta-love (even if our MMC Eric tries to deny it). Yes, there’s mistrust / mis-placed trust from our FMC Astrid. There’s even magical merfolk thrown in the mix.
For as short as this tale was I still felt like we got a great handle on Astrid’s personality. But Eric’s own personality felt a little flat to me, hence the 4 stars. Irregardless, this is still a great read and a delightful way to pass some time.
September 30, 2017
Very well thought out. I found this novella very entertaining. I was completely drawn into the story. Once in awhile the use of modern language gave me pause, as I was trying to decide if it fit the time period. But, the feeling and devotion the characters shared was brilliantly executed! You won't want to pass this gem by! I definitely cannot wait to read more from this creative book goddess!
April 21, 2018
I like it
Supernatural. Historical? Romance. Very intriguing story. A woman must survive Temptation for a year and one day to break a Kings curse. Never encountered a tale like Bluebeard's Curse before. I really liked it.
Supernatural. Historical? Romance. Very intriguing story. A woman must survive Temptation for a year and one day to break a Kings curse. Never encountered a tale like Bluebeard's Curse before. I really liked it.
October 25, 2018
For adult readers.
Eric has had 27 brides due to a curse. Astrid is to be number 28.
I think book is a easy read because it's different and interesting. I like the build to what's behind the door. I am eager to see what this author has put together for book two.
Eric has had 27 brides due to a curse. Astrid is to be number 28.
I think book is a easy read because it's different and interesting. I like the build to what's behind the door. I am eager to see what this author has put together for book two.
March 29, 2017
I like this is was different and intriguing specially when you know the reason for all this was a petty ex. otherwise Hilda you dumb thing. *sighs exasperated*
September 14, 2017
A beautifully gothic tale!!
January 25, 2018
A quick re-telling of Bluebeard. I loved it!
September 17, 2020
The folktale of Bluebeard gets a little bit of a Disney's Little Mermaid makeover. I liked it quite a bit.
May 19, 2025
ameeee
entretenido
original
todo en su punto
y rápido de leer .
me encantó 💕
entretenido
original
todo en su punto
y rápido de leer .
me encantó 💕
Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews