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The Mage's Eye Series #1
A Curse Unspeakable
Cursed with unstable magic, mute servant Glory dreams of freedom and a place to belong. But with a ruthless slave hunter on her trail, Glory is forced to survive on the margins of society- until she meets a troupe of traveling performers and their charismatic captain.
With his promise of protection, Glory joins Faleron Eversteel's caravan of the Arcane- a sanctuary for those born with rare magic in a prejudiced world. But Faleron is an actor with many masks, and Glory must decide which persona is the charming altruist or the cunning manipulator.
Drawn into a world of danger and wanderlust, Glory and Faleron must discover a way to defy her lethal curse. Their journey carries them across the rolling hills and forests of Tairtiary, performing perilous performances and competing in close-combat competitions. But when Glory’s slave hunter targets the caravan itself, Glory must step up as their unlikely defender or risk losing her new family altogether.
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"A Curse Unspeakable" is the first book in a Young Adult/New Adult Fantasy Adventure series featuring a mute protagonist and a slow-burn romance. Tropes Found Family, Self-Discovery, Hope Despite Adversity, Self-Forgiveness, and Rediscovering Joy. This book emphasizes healthy romantic partnerships.
Content Discussions of Physical and Emotional Abuse, Trauma, Kidnapping, Death/Dying, and Blood. The content is suitable for older teenagers and young adults.
With his promise of protection, Glory joins Faleron Eversteel's caravan of the Arcane- a sanctuary for those born with rare magic in a prejudiced world. But Faleron is an actor with many masks, and Glory must decide which persona is the charming altruist or the cunning manipulator.
Drawn into a world of danger and wanderlust, Glory and Faleron must discover a way to defy her lethal curse. Their journey carries them across the rolling hills and forests of Tairtiary, performing perilous performances and competing in close-combat competitions. But when Glory’s slave hunter targets the caravan itself, Glory must step up as their unlikely defender or risk losing her new family altogether.
---
"A Curse Unspeakable" is the first book in a Young Adult/New Adult Fantasy Adventure series featuring a mute protagonist and a slow-burn romance. Tropes Found Family, Self-Discovery, Hope Despite Adversity, Self-Forgiveness, and Rediscovering Joy. This book emphasizes healthy romantic partnerships.
Content Discussions of Physical and Emotional Abuse, Trauma, Kidnapping, Death/Dying, and Blood. The content is suitable for older teenagers and young adults.
- GenresFantasy
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 15, 2023
11 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 7, 2024
An absolutely magical experience.
This book was so wonderfully written that I felt like I was watching a movie. It was so vivid, it was like I was actually there. There are several scenes and moments that just felt so completely alive with emotion and activity.
When I think about my favorite parts and characters, Glory and Faleron are easy favorites. It was fascinating following Glory’s journey and I loved seeing how Faleron cared so deeply for his found family. Faleron teaching Glory hand speak is so precious.
My heart truly lies with Grace and Eldrin.
Grace has such a pure sense of friendship, completely accepting and loving towards Glory and immediately accepted her as her found sister.
Eldrin. I simply loved him. His powers, his love for nature, his reserved love for his best friend. His unwavering support for Glory, immediately taking her in and teaching her to read. I felt like his home was so brilliantly described that I could actually see it.
You can feel completely confident recommending this to a young reader. I am beyond excited for the continuation of this fantastic journey. I will be eagerly awaiting the second and third books in the series!!!
This book was so wonderfully written that I felt like I was watching a movie. It was so vivid, it was like I was actually there. There are several scenes and moments that just felt so completely alive with emotion and activity.
When I think about my favorite parts and characters, Glory and Faleron are easy favorites. It was fascinating following Glory’s journey and I loved seeing how Faleron cared so deeply for his found family. Faleron teaching Glory hand speak is so precious.
My heart truly lies with Grace and Eldrin.
Grace has such a pure sense of friendship, completely accepting and loving towards Glory and immediately accepted her as her found sister.
Eldrin. I simply loved him. His powers, his love for nature, his reserved love for his best friend. His unwavering support for Glory, immediately taking her in and teaching her to read. I felt like his home was so brilliantly described that I could actually see it.
You can feel completely confident recommending this to a young reader. I am beyond excited for the continuation of this fantastic journey. I will be eagerly awaiting the second and third books in the series!!!
May 28, 2024
A Curse Unspeakable
Where do I even begin? I lost sleep from being so engrossed in this book that I lost all track of time. It captured my attention from the beginning, and I’ll be thinking about it for a while yet! I need more!
This book will rip at your heart then fix it over and over. So many undercurrent mysteries and questions still yet to be answered. The plot was well one with openings left the next book(s) to fill in the blanks and leave you anxiously awaiting for answers. The pacing was great. For me, none of it lulled or felt slow.
Glory’s backstory is absolutely heart wrenching, and we don’t know everything that happened yet! Faleron’s backstory is interesting, heartbreaking, and raises questions yet unanswered. I’m 100% invested in Faleron and Glory shipping. I love their interactions along with those of their friends. It’s even more intriguing that Glory can’t speak, and at the beginning couldn’t read/write or use sign language. I loved watching Glory come out of her shell, learn, and fight her curse. All the characters were brought to life in vivid color.
I love the setting and the gypsy feel it gives. It’s colorful, fun, adventurous. Morgan brings each setting and interaction to life.
This will definitely be a book I reread in the future. It’s the perfect blend of comfy, mysterious, adventurous, fantasy.
I CANNOT wait for the next in this series to come out. This is one that will live in the back of my mind rent free forever.
If you’re thinking about reading it, think no more. Start it immediately.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author who sent me an ARC for my honest review.
So glad I got the opportunity to read this!
Where do I even begin? I lost sleep from being so engrossed in this book that I lost all track of time. It captured my attention from the beginning, and I’ll be thinking about it for a while yet! I need more!
This book will rip at your heart then fix it over and over. So many undercurrent mysteries and questions still yet to be answered. The plot was well one with openings left the next book(s) to fill in the blanks and leave you anxiously awaiting for answers. The pacing was great. For me, none of it lulled or felt slow.
Glory’s backstory is absolutely heart wrenching, and we don’t know everything that happened yet! Faleron’s backstory is interesting, heartbreaking, and raises questions yet unanswered. I’m 100% invested in Faleron and Glory shipping. I love their interactions along with those of their friends. It’s even more intriguing that Glory can’t speak, and at the beginning couldn’t read/write or use sign language. I loved watching Glory come out of her shell, learn, and fight her curse. All the characters were brought to life in vivid color.
I love the setting and the gypsy feel it gives. It’s colorful, fun, adventurous. Morgan brings each setting and interaction to life.
This will definitely be a book I reread in the future. It’s the perfect blend of comfy, mysterious, adventurous, fantasy.
I CANNOT wait for the next in this series to come out. This is one that will live in the back of my mind rent free forever.
If you’re thinking about reading it, think no more. Start it immediately.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author who sent me an ARC for my honest review.
So glad I got the opportunity to read this!
July 8, 2024
10/10 would recommend. I absolutely adored this book. I'd been in a reading slump for a good while now and that did effect me a bit while reading this book, but it was never the book's fault. This book has singlehandedly brought me out of that slump.
All of the characters are just so nice in their own ways, I loved them all. The entire experience was just so enjoyable while I was reading. Everytime I started to read a bit on it, I didn't want to put the book down. One thing that I tend to have trouble with in books is slow moments, they can be a big drag at times and can make me bored. But this book didn't have any slow moments for me. While it did have moments where not much was happening and it was just the character going about daily things, it didn't feel like the slow moments that made me bored, it was more moments that just made me want so much more and made me more engrossed in the book.
The writing was amazing and all of the characterization was amazing. And I cannot wait for the second book to come out.
(This is the first review I've ever done, so sorry if I wasn't able to explain properly all my thoughts.)
All of the characters are just so nice in their own ways, I loved them all. The entire experience was just so enjoyable while I was reading. Everytime I started to read a bit on it, I didn't want to put the book down. One thing that I tend to have trouble with in books is slow moments, they can be a big drag at times and can make me bored. But this book didn't have any slow moments for me. While it did have moments where not much was happening and it was just the character going about daily things, it didn't feel like the slow moments that made me bored, it was more moments that just made me want so much more and made me more engrossed in the book.
The writing was amazing and all of the characterization was amazing. And I cannot wait for the second book to come out.
(This is the first review I've ever done, so sorry if I wasn't able to explain properly all my thoughts.)
July 26, 2024
A Curse Unspeakable is the 1st book in the The Mage's Eye series by Morgan I. Gerhart. It is a young adult fantasy adventure series featuring a mute protagonist and a slow-burn romance featuring found family and closed proximity.
Cursed with unstable magic and unable to speak, Glory is chased by a ruthless slave hunter. Forced to survive in secret and exist on the margins of society, she meets a troupe of traveling performers lead by their charismatic captain Faleron Eversteel. The caravan – The Mage’s Eye – is a sanctuary for those born with magic. The journey carries them across the land performing and competing close-combat competitions. Growing closer with Faleron, they are searching for a way to defeat her lethal curse. But when Glory’s chaser targets the caravan itself, it is up to her to save her newly found family.
Where do I even begin? There is much to like about this book. This is a story of self-discovery and self-forgiveness – a journey to rediscover joy. It is also a story about healing, dropping the masks and finding new purposes. The author has created an intricate magic world that exists in a cycle that repeats itself, causing those born with magic re-learn everything when a new circle/era begins – an interesting idea and I hope that the next book will shed more light on this. It is a creative approach, but will need some explaining when the story evolves. I really enjoyed the characters, both main and side ones, each of them unique and with their own intriguing history. Glory makes a magnificent heroine, she is resilient, intelligent, and strong-willed. Although mute, she learned to communicate, although burdened with a lethal curse, she found a way to defy it – that is something to admire. Having lived a life of loss and hardness, it is heartwarming to see her join the caravan, make true friends and fall in love. The author has done a wonderful job picturing the heroine being mute and learning how to communicate – simply fascinating. Faleron is another interesting character with his set of different masks and personas. Somewhere along the way he has lost his maskless self and is now starting to find himself again as he falls in love with Glory and can be his true self once again. I hope we get more of his history as the story evolves, as he seems to have an interesting past. Then there are Grace and Eldrin – unwavering friends and brilliant companions, each of them deserving their own story told. The book is wonderfully written – the author has true talent in storytelling and the writing is just vivid. The plot is interesting, the story well-paced and it all just flows effortlessly. There are so many mysteries and unanswered questions, but you don’t feel as if anything is missing from the story – all will unravel in its own time. There is a lot of depth and detail in this story, you can see the growth of the characters, observe their inner turmoil and struggles. There are some unexpected plot twists that keep you guessing, what’s going to happen next. It is a fun and lighthearted story with some gypsy vibes, but also with a darker undertone.
All in all the book was a great surprise and I absolutely recommend reading it, you will not regret it. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished it. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I also have to mention the cover art – a beautifully haunting one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cursed with unstable magic and unable to speak, Glory is chased by a ruthless slave hunter. Forced to survive in secret and exist on the margins of society, she meets a troupe of traveling performers lead by their charismatic captain Faleron Eversteel. The caravan – The Mage’s Eye – is a sanctuary for those born with magic. The journey carries them across the land performing and competing close-combat competitions. Growing closer with Faleron, they are searching for a way to defeat her lethal curse. But when Glory’s chaser targets the caravan itself, it is up to her to save her newly found family.
Where do I even begin? There is much to like about this book. This is a story of self-discovery and self-forgiveness – a journey to rediscover joy. It is also a story about healing, dropping the masks and finding new purposes. The author has created an intricate magic world that exists in a cycle that repeats itself, causing those born with magic re-learn everything when a new circle/era begins – an interesting idea and I hope that the next book will shed more light on this. It is a creative approach, but will need some explaining when the story evolves. I really enjoyed the characters, both main and side ones, each of them unique and with their own intriguing history. Glory makes a magnificent heroine, she is resilient, intelligent, and strong-willed. Although mute, she learned to communicate, although burdened with a lethal curse, she found a way to defy it – that is something to admire. Having lived a life of loss and hardness, it is heartwarming to see her join the caravan, make true friends and fall in love. The author has done a wonderful job picturing the heroine being mute and learning how to communicate – simply fascinating. Faleron is another interesting character with his set of different masks and personas. Somewhere along the way he has lost his maskless self and is now starting to find himself again as he falls in love with Glory and can be his true self once again. I hope we get more of his history as the story evolves, as he seems to have an interesting past. Then there are Grace and Eldrin – unwavering friends and brilliant companions, each of them deserving their own story told. The book is wonderfully written – the author has true talent in storytelling and the writing is just vivid. The plot is interesting, the story well-paced and it all just flows effortlessly. There are so many mysteries and unanswered questions, but you don’t feel as if anything is missing from the story – all will unravel in its own time. There is a lot of depth and detail in this story, you can see the growth of the characters, observe their inner turmoil and struggles. There are some unexpected plot twists that keep you guessing, what’s going to happen next. It is a fun and lighthearted story with some gypsy vibes, but also with a darker undertone.
All in all the book was a great surprise and I absolutely recommend reading it, you will not regret it. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished it. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I also have to mention the cover art – a beautifully haunting one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 19, 2024
When I first started reading it, I thought I was not going to like the book or be able to finish it. However, the last 150 pages were where the story began to pick up pace and intrigued me more. I understand that this is the author’s first book, so for that I do not think this book is bad. I think it is ok.
So for that I am going to write my problems with the book:
-The book lacks the pull factor that makes you want to keep reading.
-some of the aspects are a bit confusing.
-The world building as well gets a bit fuzzy. Why is there a cycle of magic? How does it really work? The descriptions of it are vague. Maybe it’ll be told later in the series. It just didn’t make sense to me at first.
-The powers in the world are also a bit confusing. What is the limit to the power if someone has the ability to tune into someone’s emotions? Or be able to control them? Why are there not more problems in the world of that is so? For people with so much power described, there is no action to follow it. Their powers are shown to be weak in the book in comparison to what they really are.
-How do some people get cursed of magic and others not? Why is Glory’s magic cursed?? I’m sure there will be an explanation to this as well later in the series but for now I just have a vague understanding of it.
-Some of the dialogue does not sound realistic.
-Minor descriptions of what the characters look like. It made it hard for me to imagine them if their appearance is only described vaguely once.
-The world map needs to have to cities mentioned on there.
-The book overall was just a tad boring??
Positives I liked about it:
-The scene where Glory meets Noble and they fight the men in the sewers. I think this was the best scene in the book.
-I believe I enjoyed the flash back scenes of Glory’s past more than the current story told. It is more entertaining.
-The book cover art is BEAUTIFUL.
-Imagining the caravans was fun.
-Glory’s character is by far the best. Her communicating mutely to the others was fun to read. I loved seeing that she had to scribble and use her hands to speak. It was a nice touch. I loved imagining those parts of the scene.
So after all of that, will I read the second book? I am not sure. Maybe? Overall, the writing was lack luster for me, and the story felt mundane. But it was not terrible. So for that I’d rate it 2.5/5 of Goodreads would let me.
So for that I am going to write my problems with the book:
-The book lacks the pull factor that makes you want to keep reading.
-some of the aspects are a bit confusing.
-The world building as well gets a bit fuzzy. Why is there a cycle of magic? How does it really work? The descriptions of it are vague. Maybe it’ll be told later in the series. It just didn’t make sense to me at first.
-The powers in the world are also a bit confusing. What is the limit to the power if someone has the ability to tune into someone’s emotions? Or be able to control them? Why are there not more problems in the world of that is so? For people with so much power described, there is no action to follow it. Their powers are shown to be weak in the book in comparison to what they really are.
-How do some people get cursed of magic and others not? Why is Glory’s magic cursed?? I’m sure there will be an explanation to this as well later in the series but for now I just have a vague understanding of it.
-Some of the dialogue does not sound realistic.
-Minor descriptions of what the characters look like. It made it hard for me to imagine them if their appearance is only described vaguely once.
-The world map needs to have to cities mentioned on there.
-The book overall was just a tad boring??
Positives I liked about it:
-The scene where Glory meets Noble and they fight the men in the sewers. I think this was the best scene in the book.
-I believe I enjoyed the flash back scenes of Glory’s past more than the current story told. It is more entertaining.
-The book cover art is BEAUTIFUL.
-Imagining the caravans was fun.
-Glory’s character is by far the best. Her communicating mutely to the others was fun to read. I loved seeing that she had to scribble and use her hands to speak. It was a nice touch. I loved imagining those parts of the scene.
So after all of that, will I read the second book? I am not sure. Maybe? Overall, the writing was lack luster for me, and the story felt mundane. But it was not terrible. So for that I’d rate it 2.5/5 of Goodreads would let me.
December 15, 2023
A magical and breathtaking adventure that makes me wish on every shooting star that I could join the Mage’s Caravan!
You will fall in love with the characters, be amazed by the magic, lose yourself in the world, and be shocked by the plot. The book rewards you with each page you read, diving deeper into complex characters, a swoon-worthy love interest, and action that makes you sit on the edge of your seat.
Let me break it down.
The Mage’s Eye Caravan:
A group of arcane (magical) who are separated into circles and put on performances across the country. The Circles are: The Blade, Marksmen, Actors, Singers, Musicians, Chefs, Acrobats, Fortunetellers, Fire eaters, and Dancers. And I want to join them all! It reminds me of Hogwarts houses but more of them and more practical!
Glory:
The author has done an extraordinary job with Glory’s muteness. Her representation of it is thoughtful and intentional yet doesn’t make conversations lull.
Glory learns so much, and her progression is one you root for every step of the way.
Magic:
The Magic in this world is creative, immersive, and oh so much fun. Magical ability to manipulate hair in any and every way? Yes, please! Save me so much time in the morning! Morgan puts unique spins on magic and makes it more than just a blessing to those who have it (hint hint at the title)
Villain:
And this hunter…. He is bad news. With the ability to persuade anyone to do ANYTHING… The horrors of just the thought alone would send me running! He is straight terrifying, and his plans are shocking.
Romance:
As someone who gets mad when a romance is advertised as a “Slow burn” and then they kiss in the first 10 pages or have lovey-dovey thoughts the instant they meet…. This is an actual slow burn. I love the tension that's drawn out, how they grow closer, how I am SCREAMING for them to kiss and then- Well…I’ll let you find out for yourself ;)
Side Characters:
The characters feature so many deep backstories, that even lesser side characters shine in just the right way. They are distinct and nothing better ever happens to Meras! Or Chander… Or Eldrin. or…. You get the picture, with so many great characters, you become invested in each one, even if they're not the main character. (I want a Meras spin-off!)
In the end. If you like found family, smart and plotting villains, a respectful sweet slow-burn romance, and a magical fantasy book that makes you crave the next. This is your book!
This is the first in the series I plan to continue. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
*Note: I received this as an ARC
You will fall in love with the characters, be amazed by the magic, lose yourself in the world, and be shocked by the plot. The book rewards you with each page you read, diving deeper into complex characters, a swoon-worthy love interest, and action that makes you sit on the edge of your seat.
Let me break it down.
The Mage’s Eye Caravan:
A group of arcane (magical) who are separated into circles and put on performances across the country. The Circles are: The Blade, Marksmen, Actors, Singers, Musicians, Chefs, Acrobats, Fortunetellers, Fire eaters, and Dancers. And I want to join them all! It reminds me of Hogwarts houses but more of them and more practical!
Glory:
The author has done an extraordinary job with Glory’s muteness. Her representation of it is thoughtful and intentional yet doesn’t make conversations lull.
Glory learns so much, and her progression is one you root for every step of the way.
Magic:
The Magic in this world is creative, immersive, and oh so much fun. Magical ability to manipulate hair in any and every way? Yes, please! Save me so much time in the morning! Morgan puts unique spins on magic and makes it more than just a blessing to those who have it (hint hint at the title)
Villain:
And this hunter…. He is bad news. With the ability to persuade anyone to do ANYTHING… The horrors of just the thought alone would send me running! He is straight terrifying, and his plans are shocking.
Romance:
As someone who gets mad when a romance is advertised as a “Slow burn” and then they kiss in the first 10 pages or have lovey-dovey thoughts the instant they meet…. This is an actual slow burn. I love the tension that's drawn out, how they grow closer, how I am SCREAMING for them to kiss and then- Well…I’ll let you find out for yourself ;)
Side Characters:
The characters feature so many deep backstories, that even lesser side characters shine in just the right way. They are distinct and nothing better ever happens to Meras! Or Chander… Or Eldrin. or…. You get the picture, with so many great characters, you become invested in each one, even if they're not the main character. (I want a Meras spin-off!)
In the end. If you like found family, smart and plotting villains, a respectful sweet slow-burn romance, and a magical fantasy book that makes you crave the next. This is your book!
This is the first in the series I plan to continue. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
*Note: I received this as an ARC
April 2, 2024
Ahhh I loved this book! There is a lot of depth to the world created and there are some interesting quirks to the magic system that I enjoyed. It was really cool to see some ASL representation in fiction as that's not something I've come across in books until now, and I'm currently learning ASL myself. The description of the signs are done well, to the point where I could figure out what someone was signing with just the description of signs before the main character understood sign language.
This book is well crafted in general, the writing is great and the main characters are very lovable. I'm super excited for the next books in the series to come out! I think I maybe would have liked to get a bit more of the shape of what's to come in the entire series/larger view of the plot, but that might just be me being impatient ahaha. This serves as an excellent introduction to this world and these characters, and Glory's journey in joining Caravan Mage's Eye, and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next in the grander scheme of what's going on (vagueness because I am very conscious of trying not to include anything spoilery).
This book is well crafted in general, the writing is great and the main characters are very lovable. I'm super excited for the next books in the series to come out! I think I maybe would have liked to get a bit more of the shape of what's to come in the entire series/larger view of the plot, but that might just be me being impatient ahaha. This serves as an excellent introduction to this world and these characters, and Glory's journey in joining Caravan Mage's Eye, and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next in the grander scheme of what's going on (vagueness because I am very conscious of trying not to include anything spoilery).
January 11, 2024
WOW! Just WOW!! This book was absolutely ENTHRALLING! I received this as an ARC and it quickly became one of my favorite books ever! The slow burn romance was beautiful and brilliantly realistic and the plot was incredible. If you want a book that makes you feel like part of a traveling caravan of magicians and acrobats you have found your book! Each aspect of the characters (both main characters and side characters) was meticulously thought out and skillfully inserted throughout the book to create a beautiful and natural flow to the story. There was so much detail and care put into this book that it feels real to the reader. You grow with the characters and see their struggles and turmoil at every plot twist. I honestly could ramble for hours about how much I loved every second of it and could barely set it down. But I’ll save you an even longer race by saying RUN DONT WALK! Get a copy for yourself and join Glory and the rest of Mage’s Eye on a wonderful adventure!
December 6, 2023
ARC Review!
A Curse Unspeakable is so much fun! The traveling circus theme is colorful, and the Circles make me wish I could join Mage's Eye too! I would definitely be in the Acrobat Circle! I've always wanted to try walking a tightrope! But that's a tangent...
This story is very character-driven, and the cast is spectacular. The romance between the two main characters is natural and honest. The side characters are my absolute favorite though. Meras and I would be GREAT friends.
And the mute protagonist? It's unique, and it makes me want to learn ASL! And the fact that only the Main Characters can use it? It's like their own private language (absolutely dreamy)!
All things considered, I would recommend A Curse Unspeakable to anyone who asked. It's fun, lighthearted, and has so much promise. I can't wait for the next one!
A Curse Unspeakable is so much fun! The traveling circus theme is colorful, and the Circles make me wish I could join Mage's Eye too! I would definitely be in the Acrobat Circle! I've always wanted to try walking a tightrope! But that's a tangent...
This story is very character-driven, and the cast is spectacular. The romance between the two main characters is natural and honest. The side characters are my absolute favorite though. Meras and I would be GREAT friends.
And the mute protagonist? It's unique, and it makes me want to learn ASL! And the fact that only the Main Characters can use it? It's like their own private language (absolutely dreamy)!
All things considered, I would recommend A Curse Unspeakable to anyone who asked. It's fun, lighthearted, and has so much promise. I can't wait for the next one!
February 2, 2024
A Curse Unspeakable by Morgan Gerhart is a cozy fantasy novel about Glory, a wonderful and unusual character who travels with a magical troupe of performers. She is on the run.
From the first page I liked the book a lot. The writing style is amazing, very descriptive and beautiful, so you can see it before you eyes. It’s full of color and magic, as is the worldbuilding. There is action, and also a slowburn romance is woven into the story. The characters come across really well. As the story progresses, you root for Glory and Faleron, the man with many masks and you kept hoping everthing would be okay as the danger closed in.
This book was a great surprise to me, so I kept on reading. If you like a cozy well written fantasy story, with an unusual FMC and a kind of unique setting, this is the book for you.
From the first page I liked the book a lot. The writing style is amazing, very descriptive and beautiful, so you can see it before you eyes. It’s full of color and magic, as is the worldbuilding. There is action, and also a slowburn romance is woven into the story. The characters come across really well. As the story progresses, you root for Glory and Faleron, the man with many masks and you kept hoping everthing would be okay as the danger closed in.
This book was a great surprise to me, so I kept on reading. If you like a cozy well written fantasy story, with an unusual FMC and a kind of unique setting, this is the book for you.
October 26, 2024
This was a true joy to read. A mute woman finds herself caught up in a world of arcane magic, danger, and adventure after innocently going to the fair. When viewing a sword match at a show in the fair, an accident happens that forever changes her world. After being on the run from someone who hunts her for her powers, she joins this merry band of travelers, finding not only herself and what her growing powers mean, but also finds love and purpose! This book is filled with action and adventure, friendship in unlikely places, and true growth of not only self...but in many character's arcane powers! Lose yourself in this amazing tale of self-discovery in magical lands. It is a story that will keep you gripped and yearning for another book in this series. I absolutely can't wait to see book 2!!
January 6, 2025
I’m typically not a fantasy reader but I gave this book a try and was not disappointed! Even though the story is set in a mystical fictional world, it still feels akin to real life without being super high fantasy. I still appreciated the way the story starts making the reader put together what is happening rather than boring exposition while also being relatively easy to follow for a non-fantasy reader.
The main thing that sold me on this book was that I didn’t really find myself bored and flew through the pages quickly! I was absolutely immersed with life in the Mages’s Eye and seeing Glory’s interactions with everyone. Also, I absolutely adore the magic displayed and how even all the minor characters get a flare of their personality showcased.
Overall, a good story for anyone who enjoys found family, fun magical gimmicks and a healthy romance!
The main thing that sold me on this book was that I didn’t really find myself bored and flew through the pages quickly! I was absolutely immersed with life in the Mages’s Eye and seeing Glory’s interactions with everyone. Also, I absolutely adore the magic displayed and how even all the minor characters get a flare of their personality showcased.
Overall, a good story for anyone who enjoys found family, fun magical gimmicks and a healthy romance!
December 12, 2023
A Curse Unspeakable is a beautifully crafted adventure full of an array of colourful characters, ethereal music, a rainbow of costumes and caravans, spectacular shows you can almost see play out in your mind's eye, and the breathless joy of dancing. It's a journey of self-discovery, of found family, of seeking your niche in the world. The book is full of so many lovely moments that made my heart go out to Glory and her new-found friends. I sure hope there's a sequel because I'm not ready to say goodbye to them just yet, and there are still so many more mysteries to unravel and secrets to unearth. Plus, I need to continue my lessons in Hand Speak. If you're looking for a cosy fantasy to sweep you away this winter, put A Curse Unspeakable on your TBR.
April 7, 2024
From the gorgeous cover art to the beautiful storytelling, A Curse Unspeakable was a true joy to read! The story was unique and beautiful and the characters colorful and memorable. Normally I struggle to like the MMC in books, but Faleron was so easy to like!
The descriptions were vivid and easy to imagine, and every time I read I felt like I was transported to the story, experiencing everything right along with the characters.
This was a very fun and cozy read, and I can't wait for the next one in the series so I can see how the story continues to unfold!
A received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review, all opinions are my own.
The descriptions were vivid and easy to imagine, and every time I read I felt like I was transported to the story, experiencing everything right along with the characters.
This was a very fun and cozy read, and I can't wait for the next one in the series so I can see how the story continues to unfold!
A received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review, all opinions are my own.
September 17, 2024
This was literally such an enthralling fantasy novel. I could not get enough of this. The world building wasn’t overbearing like most fantasy novels I’ve read and the characters felt so realistic. This is the first fantasy novel that actually made me feel at home when reading all of the characters interactions. The feelings and emotions that the main character was feeling felt like my own after a while because I was so captured with this story. If I could live in the world where the Mage’s Eye exists, I would. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who is looking for a cozy fantasy with a found-family trope. I can’t wait for the second novel!
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June 29, 2025I’m not going to give this any stars bc I did end up DNFing it @50%
This was NOT a bad book by any means, I truly believe is I enjoyed YA books this would be a high star read for me.
This book follows Glory, who is a mute, and she is on the run from a hunter, hunting her for her powers. She meets and ends up tagging along with an eccentric group of traveling performers. They help her run and teach her basic learning skills and sign language. There is also a sprinkle of romance in there that has such potential.
If you enjoyed The Spellshop, I think you would love this book- it has the same cozy vibes.
This was NOT a bad book by any means, I truly believe is I enjoyed YA books this would be a high star read for me.
This book follows Glory, who is a mute, and she is on the run from a hunter, hunting her for her powers. She meets and ends up tagging along with an eccentric group of traveling performers. They help her run and teach her basic learning skills and sign language. There is also a sprinkle of romance in there that has such potential.
If you enjoyed The Spellshop, I think you would love this book- it has the same cozy vibes.
March 18, 2024
☆A cozy, magical adventure☆
A Curse Unspeakable was such a great story!!! Glory was such a strong, beautiful character. I loved following along on this journey. The author's writing was so descriptive. It laid out such a beautiful scene. This book is for lovers of the traveling circus and the gypsy lifestyle. I feel like this book was a whole new take on the fantasy genre. It wasn't your typical fantasy read. It had more magical aspects than anything, and I love that! 🙌 I'm so looking forward to the rest of this series😍🤗
A Curse Unspeakable was such a great story!!! Glory was such a strong, beautiful character. I loved following along on this journey. The author's writing was so descriptive. It laid out such a beautiful scene. This book is for lovers of the traveling circus and the gypsy lifestyle. I feel like this book was a whole new take on the fantasy genre. It wasn't your typical fantasy read. It had more magical aspects than anything, and I love that! 🙌 I'm so looking forward to the rest of this series😍🤗
September 13, 2024
OMG!!! I picked this book up when you were selling them at the Sundrop festival, not knowing what I was going to read. I instantly fell in love with everything, Glory, Faleron (Maybe a little bit too much...), Eldrin, and Grace. Grace is for sure my favorite character, she just has the whole nice aura and a "You're my new little sister, and if anyone hurts you I swear" kinda vibe towards Glory. I mean she was given the name of Grace's sister, so it kinda makes sense. I can't wait for the book! Especially since it will come out around my birthday!!!
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January 29, 2025Imagine a Studio Ghibli kind of magical world, adult characters with deep layers, and an intricately woven plot; that's what you can expect when you read Gerhart's A Curse Unspeakable. I thoroughly enjoyed this first novel and it helped me get out of a reading slump. The narrative is unique and creative. The characters are lovable (or dislikable, when it comes to the villain). And it truly is just an immersive read.
I definitely recommend and am eagerly waiting for the sequel.
(Only thing I might dock it for is that it can be a slower read at times, but even that wasn't too bad)
I definitely recommend and am eagerly waiting for the sequel.
(Only thing I might dock it for is that it can be a slower read at times, but even that wasn't too bad)
August 6, 2025
I adored this book and if I could give it a higher rating I would. I think it's one of the best that I've read this year.
If you like found family, colorful characters, and interesting magic systems, then this book is for you. I loved every character I was introduced to and I swear if anything horrible happens to them I will be devastated. The author is incredibly talented in making them feel real.
Make sure you have nothing else to do when you start reading it because you won't stop until it's finished.
If you like found family, colorful characters, and interesting magic systems, then this book is for you. I loved every character I was introduced to and I swear if anything horrible happens to them I will be devastated. The author is incredibly talented in making them feel real.
Make sure you have nothing else to do when you start reading it because you won't stop until it's finished.
December 20, 2023
A thrilling fantasy of magic and adventure! Gerhart’s descriptive writing style brings the characters to life with their magical abilities and colorful costumes. Travel with Glory and the Mage’s Eye Caravan as they entertain the citizens of Tairtiary through fascinating locales. I enjoyed the gatherings in the Heart at the end of the day! I could taste the food, hear the music and feel the joy of new romance as they danced. Anxiously awaiting the next book! And the movie!
June 26, 2025
This is the best book I've read in ages! I could not put this book down, and it's been a long time since I've felt that way about any book of any genre. I am waiting on pins and needles for the next book to come out. This book has detailed character development, a unique storyline, and is appropriate for all ages. It was somehow written both eloquently and in a way that made the pages fly by. This is quite possibly my new favorite book ever.
February 1, 2024
The Blade circle was the coolest circle to me. Scripted lines but unscripted fights! Action is intense and Faleron was my favorite character. The end of the book had me reading chapter after chapter cause I couldn’t put it down. If you liked the Graceling, Eragon or any Tamora Pierce book you’ll like this one.
March 23, 2024
This is an absolute MUST read if you love cozy fantasy books with a little suspense.
This book was absolutely BREATHTAKING. The world building is entrancing. The characters are layered and believable. Not only are the main characters complex and likeable, but the ensemble characters are just as loveable and interesting. I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
This book was absolutely BREATHTAKING. The world building is entrancing. The characters are layered and believable. Not only are the main characters complex and likeable, but the ensemble characters are just as loveable and interesting. I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
May 19, 2024
Magical, Terrifying, Complex!!!!
In a world of magic, how do you save others when you can't save yourself? When you have lost everything and everyone you loved, how do you let your heart love again?
This is a totally amazing, fascinating absorbing book,( perfect for book club discussion) and I am delighted to hear there will be more books.
Thunderous Applause!!!
In a world of magic, how do you save others when you can't save yourself? When you have lost everything and everyone you loved, how do you let your heart love again?
This is a totally amazing, fascinating absorbing book,( perfect for book club discussion) and I am delighted to hear there will be more books.
Thunderous Applause!!!
March 1, 2025
I could gush about this book all day. A mute mage that's cute as a button but will annihilate you with a blink of an eye or a swipe of her sword. Hawt. A dashing performer with fierceness in his heart, loyalty and goodness. Yes please! Fun side characters you can't help but love? Yep!!!! You will love this book. I am so excited for book two. <3
March 22, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The characters are well thought out and are complex, with no one being the "hero". Plenty of trauma and disability rep, as well as accurate methods of decompression and recovery. 10/10 will read again
March 29, 2024
Morgan weaves a beautifully told story full of remarkably unique characters and tales far and wide while traveling the world in a caravan.
The story is unique, descriptive and well versed. I found it a bit slow for my liking, but have to applaud how well it was done.
The story is unique, descriptive and well versed. I found it a bit slow for my liking, but have to applaud how well it was done.
February 13, 2024
★ ★ ★ ★ ½
I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book for honest review!
Wow. What a warm hug of a story! I was blown away with the care and quiet passion this story and each of its characters were written with.
Glory had been cursed - the magic that keeps her alive through the harshest of situations also claimed her voice. She has spent her life running from the higher powers who would choose to arm themselves with her power, and so, she is alone. This story unfolds as Glory begins to find her place amongst others within the Mage’s Eye, and as she begins to explore who she is, and who she wishes to become.
A tender story of self-discovery, in which every character is layered and reads authentic. As the present plot unfolds, we learn more about the lives Glory lived under different name. Our MMC Faleron’s intriguing backstory also hints at larger arcs to come as the series progresses.
Gerhart places emphasis on healthy romantic partnerships in this novel, and this is so evident in the attentiveness with which she has written the central relationships. Slow-burning romance you can kick your feet to, between characters with evident respect for one another.
A dynamic yet cozy read that I will absolutely be recommending to fantasy readers! I can’t wait for the next instalment ♥
I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a copy of this book for honest review!
Wow. What a warm hug of a story! I was blown away with the care and quiet passion this story and each of its characters were written with.
Glory had been cursed - the magic that keeps her alive through the harshest of situations also claimed her voice. She has spent her life running from the higher powers who would choose to arm themselves with her power, and so, she is alone. This story unfolds as Glory begins to find her place amongst others within the Mage’s Eye, and as she begins to explore who she is, and who she wishes to become.
A tender story of self-discovery, in which every character is layered and reads authentic. As the present plot unfolds, we learn more about the lives Glory lived under different name. Our MMC Faleron’s intriguing backstory also hints at larger arcs to come as the series progresses.
Gerhart places emphasis on healthy romantic partnerships in this novel, and this is so evident in the attentiveness with which she has written the central relationships. Slow-burning romance you can kick your feet to, between characters with evident respect for one another.
A dynamic yet cozy read that I will absolutely be recommending to fantasy readers! I can’t wait for the next instalment ♥
January 6, 2024
Absolutely amazing book! It has captivated my attention from the first page. I'm only a few chapters in but I am already obsessed with it!
Edit: I have finished the book and it was amazing!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next one!!!!
Edit: I have finished the book and it was amazing!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait for the next one!!!!
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