What do you think?
Rate this book
Gardens of War & Wasteland #2
The Blood Curse: Gardens of War & Wasteland Book II
"Darker, grander, richer, and filled with even more delicious emotional turmoil, The Blood Curse is simply everything you could ever wish for in a sequel, and then so much more." — Grimdark Magazine
"...a master-class in character" — The Empty Bookshelf
Amika has left Holania in ruins.
Grief-stricken and betrayed, she is on a fiery path to set things right—even if it means submitting to prophecy’s chain. Emboldened by her growing powers, Amika heads towards the wastelands of Qhoraak to rescue her brother and drag another Chosen into destiny’s sick game.
With demonspawn mobilising in unprecedented numbers, she and Rei-Hai Shaw must confront the dangers awaiting them beyond the western border… and those lurking within their shadows.
Kriah, adrift at sea, struggles with the aftermath of breaking the first seal. Now, Azet’haal and his Meah-Hyren army know of the plan to revive the Goddess and it’s only a matter of time before they make their move on the mainland.
But as a new threat spreads across the east, Kriah must uncover the origins of the deadly blood plague and convince the vulnerable people of Whyt’hallen that it is not the old Sickness they fear.
Or did breaking the first seal release more than just a lock on the Goddess’s soul?
"...a master-class in character" — The Empty Bookshelf
Amika has left Holania in ruins.
Grief-stricken and betrayed, she is on a fiery path to set things right—even if it means submitting to prophecy’s chain. Emboldened by her growing powers, Amika heads towards the wastelands of Qhoraak to rescue her brother and drag another Chosen into destiny’s sick game.
With demonspawn mobilising in unprecedented numbers, she and Rei-Hai Shaw must confront the dangers awaiting them beyond the western border… and those lurking within their shadows.
Kriah, adrift at sea, struggles with the aftermath of breaking the first seal. Now, Azet’haal and his Meah-Hyren army know of the plan to revive the Goddess and it’s only a matter of time before they make their move on the mainland.
But as a new threat spreads across the east, Kriah must uncover the origins of the deadly blood plague and convince the vulnerable people of Whyt’hallen that it is not the old Sickness they fear.
Or did breaking the first seal release more than just a lock on the Goddess’s soul?
- GenresFantasyDark Fantasy
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2024
48 people want to read
About the author
Jessica A. McMinn
7 books44 followersJessica A. McMinn is a dark fantasy author based in regional Australia with a passion for dark fantasy, dark coffee and cats (which, let’s face it, are all dark inside).
Since graduating from the University of Wollongong with Distinction in BCA (Creative Writing) and BA (Japanese), Jessica spent five years in Japan teaching English while refining her writing craft.
She now works as a freelance writer and offers editing and coaching services to authors. When she is not writing (which is more often than you’d think), Jessica can be found raising her two beautiful children or immersed in an audiobook while drawing, crafting or playing video games.
Her debut novel, The Ruptured Sky, is the first installment in the gritty dark fantasy quartet, Gardens of War & Wasteland, and is perfect for fans of Robin Hobb, Anna Stephens and R F Kuang.
Two prequel novellas are currently available for free on her website, jessicaamcminn.com
Since graduating from the University of Wollongong with Distinction in BCA (Creative Writing) and BA (Japanese), Jessica spent five years in Japan teaching English while refining her writing craft.
She now works as a freelance writer and offers editing and coaching services to authors. When she is not writing (which is more often than you’d think), Jessica can be found raising her two beautiful children or immersed in an audiobook while drawing, crafting or playing video games.
Her debut novel, The Ruptured Sky, is the first installment in the gritty dark fantasy quartet, Gardens of War & Wasteland, and is perfect for fans of Robin Hobb, Anna Stephens and R F Kuang.
Two prequel novellas are currently available for free on her website, jessicaamcminn.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
March 30, 2024
This review was originally published on Grimdark Magazine
Jessica A. McMinn is completely on fire in the explosive second volume of her epic Gardens of War and Wasteland quartet. Darker, grander, richer, and filled with even more delicious emotional turmoil, The Blood Curse is simply everything you could ever wish for in a sequel, and then so much more.
With most of the groundwork having been laid in The Ruptured Sky, this sequel just hits the ground running and keeps up a relentlessly captivating pacing the entire way through. McMinn masterfully eases the reader back into the story, immediately reminding us of just how dire the situation has become after all the thrilling events and revelations at the end of book 1. Second book syndrome? We don’t know her; The Blood Curse is a dangerously addictive page turner from start to finish.
Whereas The Ruptured Sky mostly felt like Amika’s story to me, I really enjoyed how this sequel smoothly broadened the scope and struck a more even balance between all these wonderfully compelling POV characters. Not only did I get even more emotionally invested in all my favourite broken babes from book 1, but I was also pleasantly surprised to find some new intriguing side characters to adore in this second instalment. Especially the pirate Emanais stole the show for me, and I now demand a prequel (or maybe an entire spin-off series) about her, thank you very much!
Similarly to Krystle Matar’s Tainted Dominion series, this dark epic fantasy series is just filled with all kinds of deeply flawed, broken, and painfully realistic characters who you simply can’t help but root for. Their morally questionable actions might make you want to strangle them at times (especially looking at you, Kriah), but gosh… if they aren’t just beautifully and tragically human.
And it was not only the individual character growth that made this sequel shine for me, but also the development of all the beautifully complex interpersonal relationships. There were some brutally tragic backstory revelations and heartachingly touching reunions, which made this sequel just an unexpectedly wild emotional rollercoaster. Moreover, The Blood Curse is even more gloriously gay than its predecessor, and we finally got some long overdue and smoking hot steamy action between certain characters that both they and I had been desperately yearning for; and it was even more delicious than I could have hoped for.
Now, I will admit that the plot set-up in The Ruptured Sky wasn’t anything that particularly wowed me, but The Blood Curse really surprised me with some of the dark doors it opened. McMinn cleverly plays around with familiar tropes, such as prophecy, chosen ones, and a rising ancient evil force, and then puts some deviously dark twists on it. Amika’s struggle with the cost of her khe’thorla powers and Rei-Hai’s fight against his dark nature had me especially glued to the page and made this story much more nuanced than I had initially given it credit for.
As in The Ruptured Sky, there were still some plot beats that felt a bit rushed or convenient to me, but nothing to the point that it broke my immersion. McMinn just absolutely nails her vision, delivering a brilliant dark epic fantasy story that is somehow both comfortably familiar and refreshingly unpredictable. Broken chosen ones, enigmatic meddling gods, thrilling demon hunting action, brutally raw mental health representation, exciting seafaring adventure, and bittersweet emotional gut punches, The Blood Curse simply has it all.
If you haven’t yet started the Gardens of War and Wasteland series, I highly recommend getting a taste of all the exquisite beauty and heartbreak this series has to offer with either of the two prequel novellas that McMinn offers for free to her newsletter subscribers; I promise you won’t regret it.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Jessica A. McMinn is completely on fire in the explosive second volume of her epic Gardens of War and Wasteland quartet. Darker, grander, richer, and filled with even more delicious emotional turmoil, The Blood Curse is simply everything you could ever wish for in a sequel, and then so much more.
With most of the groundwork having been laid in The Ruptured Sky, this sequel just hits the ground running and keeps up a relentlessly captivating pacing the entire way through. McMinn masterfully eases the reader back into the story, immediately reminding us of just how dire the situation has become after all the thrilling events and revelations at the end of book 1. Second book syndrome? We don’t know her; The Blood Curse is a dangerously addictive page turner from start to finish.
Whereas The Ruptured Sky mostly felt like Amika’s story to me, I really enjoyed how this sequel smoothly broadened the scope and struck a more even balance between all these wonderfully compelling POV characters. Not only did I get even more emotionally invested in all my favourite broken babes from book 1, but I was also pleasantly surprised to find some new intriguing side characters to adore in this second instalment. Especially the pirate Emanais stole the show for me, and I now demand a prequel (or maybe an entire spin-off series) about her, thank you very much!
Similarly to Krystle Matar’s Tainted Dominion series, this dark epic fantasy series is just filled with all kinds of deeply flawed, broken, and painfully realistic characters who you simply can’t help but root for. Their morally questionable actions might make you want to strangle them at times (especially looking at you, Kriah), but gosh… if they aren’t just beautifully and tragically human.
And it was not only the individual character growth that made this sequel shine for me, but also the development of all the beautifully complex interpersonal relationships. There were some brutally tragic backstory revelations and heartachingly touching reunions, which made this sequel just an unexpectedly wild emotional rollercoaster. Moreover, The Blood Curse is even more gloriously gay than its predecessor, and we finally got some long overdue and smoking hot steamy action between certain characters that both they and I had been desperately yearning for; and it was even more delicious than I could have hoped for.
Now, I will admit that the plot set-up in The Ruptured Sky wasn’t anything that particularly wowed me, but The Blood Curse really surprised me with some of the dark doors it opened. McMinn cleverly plays around with familiar tropes, such as prophecy, chosen ones, and a rising ancient evil force, and then puts some deviously dark twists on it. Amika’s struggle with the cost of her khe’thorla powers and Rei-Hai’s fight against his dark nature had me especially glued to the page and made this story much more nuanced than I had initially given it credit for.
As in The Ruptured Sky, there were still some plot beats that felt a bit rushed or convenient to me, but nothing to the point that it broke my immersion. McMinn just absolutely nails her vision, delivering a brilliant dark epic fantasy story that is somehow both comfortably familiar and refreshingly unpredictable. Broken chosen ones, enigmatic meddling gods, thrilling demon hunting action, brutally raw mental health representation, exciting seafaring adventure, and bittersweet emotional gut punches, The Blood Curse simply has it all.
If you haven’t yet started the Gardens of War and Wasteland series, I highly recommend getting a taste of all the exquisite beauty and heartbreak this series has to offer with either of the two prequel novellas that McMinn offers for free to her newsletter subscribers; I promise you won’t regret it.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 3, 2024
Review originally on
JamReads
The Blood Curse is the second book in the grimdark series Gardens of War & Wasteland, direct sequel to the SPFBO9 semifinalist The Ruptured Sky, written by Jessica A. McMinn. With all the foundations established in the first book, McMinn has put together a bigger and more ambitious scope, introducing characters that I hope remain with us until the end, and especially, more intense.
After breaking the first seal, Amika heads towards the wastelands of Qhoraak, emboldened by her power, trying to rescue her brother and hopefully, meeting another chosen that can be put in the sick game of destiny; she's in the company of Rei-Hai. However, Rei-Hai is slowly succumbing to the curse on his blood, and the amount of demonspawn being mobilised is making it even more dangerous.
Kio's terrible situation is alleviated after the ship he was being transported is assaulted by pirates; and by chance, their paths were bound to cross. This new band of characters takes part of the show, especially Emanals and her quest that will become a big part of the plot (and hopefully it continues in the following books).
Kriah is struggling with the aftermath of the first seal, trying to convince the people of Whythallen that the blood curse is not the Sickness they fear, and taking them to the correct path, far from charlatans and tricksters.
While the first book was a great introduction, certainly this one makes a better labour of touching the emotional parts, portraying flawed characters that are struggling to deal with the circumstances and the problems that are devastating the world. McMinn also takes the opportunity to delve deeper into the romantic aspects of the plot, adding a bit of spice to the dish.
The world gets expanded, and the consequences of The Ruptured Sky are starting to affect them; I found Qhoorak to be a really original place, which reminds me partly of Australian deserts. Kriah's POV can be a less bit engaging than the others, but still has some high points that makes it worthwhile.
If you liked the Ruptured Sky, you are going to love The Blood Curse, as it is not only a great sequel, but a step-up in McMinn's writing; if you are a fan of the grimdark genre, this would be an excellent moment to pick Gardens of War & Wasteland.
The Blood Curse is the second book in the grimdark series Gardens of War & Wasteland, direct sequel to the SPFBO9 semifinalist The Ruptured Sky, written by Jessica A. McMinn. With all the foundations established in the first book, McMinn has put together a bigger and more ambitious scope, introducing characters that I hope remain with us until the end, and especially, more intense.
After breaking the first seal, Amika heads towards the wastelands of Qhoraak, emboldened by her power, trying to rescue her brother and hopefully, meeting another chosen that can be put in the sick game of destiny; she's in the company of Rei-Hai. However, Rei-Hai is slowly succumbing to the curse on his blood, and the amount of demonspawn being mobilised is making it even more dangerous.
Kio's terrible situation is alleviated after the ship he was being transported is assaulted by pirates; and by chance, their paths were bound to cross. This new band of characters takes part of the show, especially Emanals and her quest that will become a big part of the plot (and hopefully it continues in the following books).
Kriah is struggling with the aftermath of the first seal, trying to convince the people of Whythallen that the blood curse is not the Sickness they fear, and taking them to the correct path, far from charlatans and tricksters.
While the first book was a great introduction, certainly this one makes a better labour of touching the emotional parts, portraying flawed characters that are struggling to deal with the circumstances and the problems that are devastating the world. McMinn also takes the opportunity to delve deeper into the romantic aspects of the plot, adding a bit of spice to the dish.
The world gets expanded, and the consequences of The Ruptured Sky are starting to affect them; I found Qhoorak to be a really original place, which reminds me partly of Australian deserts. Kriah's POV can be a less bit engaging than the others, but still has some high points that makes it worthwhile.
If you liked the Ruptured Sky, you are going to love The Blood Curse, as it is not only a great sequel, but a step-up in McMinn's writing; if you are a fan of the grimdark genre, this would be an excellent moment to pick Gardens of War & Wasteland.
March 6, 2024
4.5 rounded up
There is just something about a book which is so utterly … bingeable. The Blood Curse would call to my brain every second I wasn’t reading it and think .. but what’s happening with Amika, or Rei, or Emanais. Trust me, you’re gonna love Emanais.
McMinn knows how to write an unapologetic fantasy romp, that’s engaging, fun and a smidge traumatic.
This dark fantasy took the idea’s and the pizazz from The Ruptured Sky and turned them up to 11.
To get technical without getting spoilery, my favourite aspect of this story was the way that McMinn keeps you present with the characters, while subtly building up the world, backstory and magic. These important story elements will hit you when you least expect it but don’t worry, somehow you’re still well prepared.
A superb sequel, I already can’t wait for the next installment.
And more Emanais … please.
A huge thank you to the author for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
There is just something about a book which is so utterly … bingeable. The Blood Curse would call to my brain every second I wasn’t reading it and think .. but what’s happening with Amika, or Rei, or Emanais. Trust me, you’re gonna love Emanais.
McMinn knows how to write an unapologetic fantasy romp, that’s engaging, fun and a smidge traumatic.
This dark fantasy took the idea’s and the pizazz from The Ruptured Sky and turned them up to 11.
To get technical without getting spoilery, my favourite aspect of this story was the way that McMinn keeps you present with the characters, while subtly building up the world, backstory and magic. These important story elements will hit you when you least expect it but don’t worry, somehow you’re still well prepared.
A superb sequel, I already can’t wait for the next installment.
And more Emanais … please.
A huge thank you to the author for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2024
I really enjoyed book 1, but this sequel was another level... More action, great worldbuilding, tragic events, heartbreak, betrayals, new allies and steamy romance!
The way these characters lives are intertwined is phenomenal, even with 4 POV it's easy to follow everyone's actions and narrative, and you can't help but be immersed in all the emotions, and root for them all.
I loved the new characters including the complexity of Emanais, the increase in magic, seeing more of the villains, and the overall darker vibes this plot had, including revealing past traumas, PTSD and the mental health elements.
The action doesn't let up either and they are constantly facing enemies, meddling gods, assassins, demonspawn, rival warriors or disease.
This is truly epic from start to finish, can't wait for the next!
✨Chosen ones
✨Prophecy
✨Dire Stakes
✨MM romance
✨Found Family
✨Good v Evil
✨Magic
✨Morally Grey
✨Violence, Death and Trauma
✨4 POV
Honest and Voluntary ARC review
The way these characters lives are intertwined is phenomenal, even with 4 POV it's easy to follow everyone's actions and narrative, and you can't help but be immersed in all the emotions, and root for them all.
I loved the new characters including the complexity of Emanais, the increase in magic, seeing more of the villains, and the overall darker vibes this plot had, including revealing past traumas, PTSD and the mental health elements.
The action doesn't let up either and they are constantly facing enemies, meddling gods, assassins, demonspawn, rival warriors or disease.
This is truly epic from start to finish, can't wait for the next!
✨Chosen ones
✨Prophecy
✨Dire Stakes
✨MM romance
✨Found Family
✨Good v Evil
✨Magic
✨Morally Grey
✨Violence, Death and Trauma
✨4 POV
Honest and Voluntary ARC review
March 30, 2024
We are moving across the country in less than 2 weeks, so I don't have time for my more detailed review right at this moment, but I will revisit this with the review it deserves at a later date. For now, I just want to say that this pretty much cements me as a forever McMinn fan. IMO, this is everything a second book in series should be. I'm so in love with these characters. Happy release day to The Blood Curse!
September 3, 2024
After reading The Ruptured Sky last year, I was excited to get my hands on the sequel. This gritty epic fantasy captivated me with its complex and broken characters, its intriguingly dark world, and well-paced action that had me glued to the pages while simultaneously impressed that the author managed to pack so much story and detail into the relatively compact page count.
The sequel, too, more than lives up to the expectations set by the opening instalment. The main characters - Amika, Kriah, Kio, and Rei-Hai - continue to grow and evolve as their storylines take them to unexpected places, and we meet some new and fascinating characters who only add to the rich tapestry of this world. I especially loved Emanais, a newcomer to the cast who leaps off the pages.
This series has just the right balance of darkness and hope that I love in an epic fantasy series, with heart-tugging emotional turmoil alongside pulse-pounding battle scenes. The writing has enough precise detail to paint a vivid picture without being bogged down, and while still immersing the reader in the world. It’s proof that a book doesn’t need to be long or meandering to create a vivid and unforgettable experience.
This series is going from strength to strength and I can’t wait to see where events take us next!
The sequel, too, more than lives up to the expectations set by the opening instalment. The main characters - Amika, Kriah, Kio, and Rei-Hai - continue to grow and evolve as their storylines take them to unexpected places, and we meet some new and fascinating characters who only add to the rich tapestry of this world. I especially loved Emanais, a newcomer to the cast who leaps off the pages.
This series has just the right balance of darkness and hope that I love in an epic fantasy series, with heart-tugging emotional turmoil alongside pulse-pounding battle scenes. The writing has enough precise detail to paint a vivid picture without being bogged down, and while still immersing the reader in the world. It’s proof that a book doesn’t need to be long or meandering to create a vivid and unforgettable experience.
This series is going from strength to strength and I can’t wait to see where events take us next!
March 19, 2024
The Blood Curse by Jessica A Mcminn is a feast for readers!!
I love the way the author presents her stories with these stunning covers and striking maps. They are a powerful draw, before you even open the book to reconnect with the core group and return to Whyt'hallen.
Mcminn's evocative prose is the perfect vehicle to continue her worldbuilding. There is so much character development in this book, as we are taken into the past to understand motive, travel through the present to see plans enacted, then watch repercussions drive the story towards possible futures. The fantasy gets darker too, with magic, the presence of, and explanation for derived beasts and twisted plots, but the author's writing paces it perfectly and ensures readers remain sympathetic to characters. And as pieces of history are revealed, I had to feel a lot of sympathy for them. There are also several new characters I felt particularly drawn to.
Following Kio, Rei, Amika and Kriah through the pages it was plain to see them struggling, striving for small or lofty goals or learning their way in the new places they found themselves. I really enjoyed this - it made them relatable and likeable. No easy paths for these four! Giving each their own POV chapters is an inspired technique to keep readers invested in the MC's as they tread those paths.
The inclusion of LGBTIQA+ characters is a plus for me and I appreciated the sensitive way they were presented here.
This is proving to be a highly immersive, emotional, astonishing-in-it's-scope series - and I am incredibly eager for more.
I love the way the author presents her stories with these stunning covers and striking maps. They are a powerful draw, before you even open the book to reconnect with the core group and return to Whyt'hallen.
Mcminn's evocative prose is the perfect vehicle to continue her worldbuilding. There is so much character development in this book, as we are taken into the past to understand motive, travel through the present to see plans enacted, then watch repercussions drive the story towards possible futures. The fantasy gets darker too, with magic, the presence of, and explanation for derived beasts and twisted plots, but the author's writing paces it perfectly and ensures readers remain sympathetic to characters. And as pieces of history are revealed, I had to feel a lot of sympathy for them. There are also several new characters I felt particularly drawn to.
Following Kio, Rei, Amika and Kriah through the pages it was plain to see them struggling, striving for small or lofty goals or learning their way in the new places they found themselves. I really enjoyed this - it made them relatable and likeable. No easy paths for these four! Giving each their own POV chapters is an inspired technique to keep readers invested in the MC's as they tread those paths.
The inclusion of LGBTIQA+ characters is a plus for me and I appreciated the sensitive way they were presented here.
This is proving to be a highly immersive, emotional, astonishing-in-it's-scope series - and I am incredibly eager for more.
May 24, 2024
2.50
If on the first book of the series - despite the flatness of the characters - I found the story entertaining enough to keep me going, the same failed to happen with this one, unfortunately. I found myself skimming through entire chapters because everything read the same, recycled again and again in order to bulk up the tale. The plot itself felt confused, repetitive, dragging in certain places, rushed in others, and every new reveal or twist was just so predictable and in your face it failed to rouse those 'OMG!' moments I hoped to have found here. The characters remained flat throughout, and whenever something happened to them, the expected emotional reactions failed to be kindled in me. One of the characters in particular read like a page filler, everyone of their chapters was a tiresome repetition, but because there are too many 'things going on' in the story, that character seems to be necessary for whatever comes next. To me, the entire book felt rushed, like the author HAD to have it out by a specific date and must do all in their power for that to happen. I fear that rush has not served the tale, nor did it do it any favours - sometimes it's best to fail deadlines and regroup for the sake of putting out something that is truly worth it. The narrative, in terms of prose, was quite good, with moments of sheer beauty in the writing, though there were occasions where it seemed like two different people were writing this book.
In the end, I must conclude I am not the audience for this tale - it's your regular epic fantasy story that brings nothing new to the table, and though there's so much public for this, i am not part of it.
If on the first book of the series - despite the flatness of the characters - I found the story entertaining enough to keep me going, the same failed to happen with this one, unfortunately. I found myself skimming through entire chapters because everything read the same, recycled again and again in order to bulk up the tale. The plot itself felt confused, repetitive, dragging in certain places, rushed in others, and every new reveal or twist was just so predictable and in your face it failed to rouse those 'OMG!' moments I hoped to have found here. The characters remained flat throughout, and whenever something happened to them, the expected emotional reactions failed to be kindled in me. One of the characters in particular read like a page filler, everyone of their chapters was a tiresome repetition, but because there are too many 'things going on' in the story, that character seems to be necessary for whatever comes next. To me, the entire book felt rushed, like the author HAD to have it out by a specific date and must do all in their power for that to happen. I fear that rush has not served the tale, nor did it do it any favours - sometimes it's best to fail deadlines and regroup for the sake of putting out something that is truly worth it. The narrative, in terms of prose, was quite good, with moments of sheer beauty in the writing, though there were occasions where it seemed like two different people were writing this book.
In the end, I must conclude I am not the audience for this tale - it's your regular epic fantasy story that brings nothing new to the table, and though there's so much public for this, i am not part of it.
March 23, 2024
After the cliffhanger of The Ruptured Sky, I jumped at the chance to read an arc copy of the second volume in Jessica A McMinn's Gardens of War and Wasteland series, The Blood Curse.
Our leads are scattered across the lands, and we're left wondering how they're going to achieve their goals. The sky grows ever darker as Amika and Rei-Hai are on Kio's trail; he's been shoved aboard a convict ship after the disastrous events at the end of book one. Along the way they discover demonspawn are gathering in large numbers, making their already perilous journey harder. Torn from his companions, Kriah is left to discover the origins of a deadly new outbreak that threatens everything.
I loved how each characters arc is woven throughout the story, they're all complex and compelling, drawing you in. We learn more about their pasts, especially Rei-Hai and the trauma and violence he endured in his years at the tower. I enjoyed that we get a deeper look into Siephymn and the horrors of their existence. I'm sure a lot of people will enjoy the appearance of a new character in Emanais. While I appreciated her strength and capability, I was not always a fan of her treatment of Kio. I feel book one was Amika and Kio's story, but book two is Rei-Hai and Kriah's. The latter of who, having spent his entire sheltered life dictated to by his grandfather, struggles with his choices and their inevitable consequences.
McMinn masterfully pulls all these threads together for a dark and addictive sequel.
Our leads are scattered across the lands, and we're left wondering how they're going to achieve their goals. The sky grows ever darker as Amika and Rei-Hai are on Kio's trail; he's been shoved aboard a convict ship after the disastrous events at the end of book one. Along the way they discover demonspawn are gathering in large numbers, making their already perilous journey harder. Torn from his companions, Kriah is left to discover the origins of a deadly new outbreak that threatens everything.
I loved how each characters arc is woven throughout the story, they're all complex and compelling, drawing you in. We learn more about their pasts, especially Rei-Hai and the trauma and violence he endured in his years at the tower. I enjoyed that we get a deeper look into Siephymn and the horrors of their existence. I'm sure a lot of people will enjoy the appearance of a new character in Emanais. While I appreciated her strength and capability, I was not always a fan of her treatment of Kio. I feel book one was Amika and Kio's story, but book two is Rei-Hai and Kriah's. The latter of who, having spent his entire sheltered life dictated to by his grandfather, struggles with his choices and their inevitable consequences.
McMinn masterfully pulls all these threads together for a dark and addictive sequel.
March 23, 2024
A massive thank you goes to indie author Jessica A. McMinn for letting me read an ARC of The Blood Curse, book two in her dark fantasy series, Gardens of War & Wasteland! If you haven’t read my review for book one, you can check out my thoughts on The Ruptured Sky via my blog. But for now, let’s give you an overview for this beauty!
The world is breaking apart at the seams, & Amika must race to break the rest of the seals keeping the Goddess in chains. If she doesn’t, the darkness now covering the realm will not be undone. But to do this, she first needs to save her brother, taken aboard a convict ship for trying to overthrow an evil monarch. It won’t be easy, as the demonspawn are gathering in large numbers, & every day the sky is getting ever darker. Can Amika & Rei-Hai get to Kio before the world ends? Will Kriah be able to track the origins of a deadly plague ravaging communities? Can the Chosen Ones break more seals before the enemy unleashes a vast army against all who stand against them?
If you were to ask me for a dark fantasy with epic worldbuilding, grim tones & a dash of delicious spice? I can tell you right now that The Blood Curse is *exactly* what you’re looking for! This tale left me reeling & I had to wait until now to write my review, because I actually needed to calm down first...
*** You can check out my FULL REVIEW on my blog via this l!nk: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/the-b... ***
The world is breaking apart at the seams, & Amika must race to break the rest of the seals keeping the Goddess in chains. If she doesn’t, the darkness now covering the realm will not be undone. But to do this, she first needs to save her brother, taken aboard a convict ship for trying to overthrow an evil monarch. It won’t be easy, as the demonspawn are gathering in large numbers, & every day the sky is getting ever darker. Can Amika & Rei-Hai get to Kio before the world ends? Will Kriah be able to track the origins of a deadly plague ravaging communities? Can the Chosen Ones break more seals before the enemy unleashes a vast army against all who stand against them?
If you were to ask me for a dark fantasy with epic worldbuilding, grim tones & a dash of delicious spice? I can tell you right now that The Blood Curse is *exactly* what you’re looking for! This tale left me reeling & I had to wait until now to write my review, because I actually needed to calm down first...
*** You can check out my FULL REVIEW on my blog via this l!nk: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/the-b... ***
March 19, 2024
This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: The Blood Curse
Thank you to Jessica A McMinn for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!
After leaving readers in anticipation, The Blood Curse places them immediately back into the action. The fates of those left hanging in the balance are quickly revealed. And if readers think the events of book one were hard for the characters to manage, they are in for an even bigger challenge this time around.
With the fate of the world at stake, every choice counts. Despite the amount of character POVs and plot elements, nothing ever seems rushed or overly detailed. Everything is carefully woven together, submersing readers into an emotionally charged narrative. Each character in this series is complex and multilayered. They have battles waging inside of their minds while also trying to navigate an ever-changing world and increasing threat levels.
Diving deeper into Rei’s past is heart-wrenching. Readers’ eyes are opened to the trauma he endured. His violent reactions to certain situations and locations speak volumes. It’s no secret that Siephymn are not treated well, but to have Rei’s story laid bare elicits such raw emotion.
And then there is Kriah. He is such a lost soul in The Blood Curse. Torn away from everyone else, he’s left to fend for himself and he simply doesn’t know what to do. With so little experience outside his sheltered life, Kriah does the best with what he has. But he will ultimately make decisions he will never be able to take back and they will haunt him forever.
With such an intricately built plot, tying together the fate of the world with each character’s choices, this follow-up novel is just as addicting as book one. Readers will be fully invested and eager to see the new directions each character will go. The Blood Cursed is a phenomenal sequel and fans of dark fantasy have to give this series a read.
Thank you to Jessica A McMinn for providing me with a copy of this book! I voluntarily leave this review!
After leaving readers in anticipation, The Blood Curse places them immediately back into the action. The fates of those left hanging in the balance are quickly revealed. And if readers think the events of book one were hard for the characters to manage, they are in for an even bigger challenge this time around.
With the fate of the world at stake, every choice counts. Despite the amount of character POVs and plot elements, nothing ever seems rushed or overly detailed. Everything is carefully woven together, submersing readers into an emotionally charged narrative. Each character in this series is complex and multilayered. They have battles waging inside of their minds while also trying to navigate an ever-changing world and increasing threat levels.
Diving deeper into Rei’s past is heart-wrenching. Readers’ eyes are opened to the trauma he endured. His violent reactions to certain situations and locations speak volumes. It’s no secret that Siephymn are not treated well, but to have Rei’s story laid bare elicits such raw emotion.
And then there is Kriah. He is such a lost soul in The Blood Curse. Torn away from everyone else, he’s left to fend for himself and he simply doesn’t know what to do. With so little experience outside his sheltered life, Kriah does the best with what he has. But he will ultimately make decisions he will never be able to take back and they will haunt him forever.
With such an intricately built plot, tying together the fate of the world with each character’s choices, this follow-up novel is just as addicting as book one. Readers will be fully invested and eager to see the new directions each character will go. The Blood Cursed is a phenomenal sequel and fans of dark fantasy have to give this series a read.
April 12, 2024
"The Blood Curse" by Jessica A. McMinn picks up right were "The Ruptured Sky" ends, and moves everything forward at a break-neck pace. The seriousness of the threat to the world, emblazoned in the bleeding tear in the sky, casts a sense of doom over the map, no matter where characters are. I prayed that people would find each other, mend relationships long-lost or desperately severed, and I enjoyed watching their paths slowly converge toward destiny. We learn more about the prophecy in this book, more about the true mission and the true sources of hurt in the world. Many truths are heart-breaking and ugly, and the next book is not going to be any easier.
What I enjoyed most in this book were the character arcs. Rei is so much tougher and more complex than anyone, and rarely is recognized for it; even he sees himself as a valueless monster rather than the resilient and unrelentingly loving man that he is. Amika shows her mental strength and grounding to be far superior (in my mind) to her brother; I would rather see her on a throne than him. And Kio. Oh, simple Kio. You drive me completely mad, and not in a good way. Kio has so far to go, but also has come so far, and I find myself cheering for him to make it despite his very serious vices.
Again, McMinn has produced a very enjoyable read, with great prose and great characters, and I can't wait to read the next!
What I enjoyed most in this book were the character arcs. Rei is so much tougher and more complex than anyone, and rarely is recognized for it; even he sees himself as a valueless monster rather than the resilient and unrelentingly loving man that he is. Amika shows her mental strength and grounding to be far superior (in my mind) to her brother; I would rather see her on a throne than him. And Kio. Oh, simple Kio. You drive me completely mad, and not in a good way. Kio has so far to go, but also has come so far, and I find myself cheering for him to make it despite his very serious vices.
Again, McMinn has produced a very enjoyable read, with great prose and great characters, and I can't wait to read the next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2024
Amika and Rei are in search of Kio. Kio remains a prisoner. Kriah is lost in so many ways. A new blood "curse" has befallen the people. So many off shoots of the story! I was definitely in a hurry to see how this book would unfold and I was not disappointed. Lots of found family, action, good versus evil, gods, magic, and demonspawn. Highly recommended!!
April 22, 2024
Amika is still the coolest
Only romance is gay (MM)
Kriah is still annoying (poor thing)
Pirate Queen is fire and I want more of her story!
Rio is so damn brave and complex
Now let’s get the goddess!!!
Only romance is gay (MM)
Kriah is still annoying (poor thing)
Pirate Queen is fire and I want more of her story!
Rio is so damn brave and complex
Now let’s get the goddess!!!
June 14, 2024
Overall a solid story, continuing on from the first book. Interesting characters and worldbuilding. The plot dragged at times, and some of the main characters remained separated for a bit too long. Still, an enjoyable read. Intrigued to know how this continues.
May 30, 2024
Just as entertaining as the first book, The Blood Curse continues the adventures of Amika, her fallen prince brother, Kio, his demon lover Rei-Hai, and Kriah, another chosen along with Amika who has been separated from their mission but is trying to get back to them to help break the seals to release the Goddess. They need this now more than ever as a blood curse begins sweeping the lands. Author Jessica A. McMinn knows how to create a fantastical world and even more fascinating characters as reunions are emotional, relationships grow and deepen, and prickly characters become favorites as the action-packed story unfolds. Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy stories with LGBTIQA+ representation.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews