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The Cursebreakers #2
Angel Eye
BOOK 2 OF
THE CURSEBREAKERS SERIES,
FEATURED #1 ON KIRKUS REVIEWS’ 20 SCIENCE FICTION FANTASY NOVELS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND • Author Madeleine Nakamura plunges readers back into her spellbinding series, where Professor Adrien Desfourneaux’s journey through peril, passion, and dark magic takes a thrilling new turn in Angel Eye.
“A queer, smart, bewitching read." —Meredith Katz, author of The Cybernetic Tea Shop
When a healer begins murdering hospital patients, Professor Adrien Desfourneaux discovers that the threat is far closer to him than he could have imagined.
Still recovering from a recent institutionalization and unable to trust his own mind or magic, Adrien is drawn into the witch hunt as suspicion falls upon those closest to him. The city’s inquisitors and witchfinders are losing control, the magicians are growing more and more resentful, and the scars from Adrien’s last brush with disaster refuse to fade. To put an end to the innocent deaths, to keep his dearest friends, and to prove himself worthy of a potential new romance, Adrien is forced to confront his own blind spots before he’s fatally ensnared by the angel of death’s machinations.
“A queer, smart, bewitching read." —Meredith Katz, author of The Cybernetic Tea Shop
When a healer begins murdering hospital patients, Professor Adrien Desfourneaux discovers that the threat is far closer to him than he could have imagined.
Still recovering from a recent institutionalization and unable to trust his own mind or magic, Adrien is drawn into the witch hunt as suspicion falls upon those closest to him. The city’s inquisitors and witchfinders are losing control, the magicians are growing more and more resentful, and the scars from Adrien’s last brush with disaster refuse to fade. To put an end to the innocent deaths, to keep his dearest friends, and to prove himself worthy of a potential new romance, Adrien is forced to confront his own blind spots before he’s fatally ensnared by the angel of death’s machinations.
280 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
5 people are currently reading
1145 people want to read
About the author
Madeleine Nakamura
2 books40 followersMadeleine Nakamura is a writer and editor based in Los Angeles and the author of the fantasy novel Cursebreakers. A lifelong fantasy devotee, she began writing her first novel the day she realized a computer science degree wasn’t happening.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 1, 2025
✧₊‧˚⁀➷ 4.02/5 .ᐟ
genuinely mad at how good angel eye is because i tried reading two other books after i finished this and both are annoying me because they don't measure up.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ characters .ᐟ the main highlight of angel eye, like its predecessor cursebreakers, is very much the characters. adrien desfournraux, of course, was complex and fascinating and even more lovable than he was in the last book. i love the deeper exploration of adrien's akrasia, both in general and specifically how it was affected by the events of cursebreakers. his narrative was concluded perfectly. gennady was my favorite part of angel eye (brooding depressed 20 year old boy is such an excellent trope when he's not the romantic interest), and my one complaint is that i wish he would have appeared more often. his arc is satisfactory, but i do wish it would have been more fleshed out. like what happened to masha? of course, angel eye is from adrien's pov, and he had much bigger things to worry about. the other characters were lovely as well. malise is a gem, and i love that there's so many people in adrien's corner now. he deserves so much love.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ plot .ᐟ riveting, truly, but i do feel that the antagonist is given away too quickly. you can tell from their second or third appearance what's happening, and the suspense lies not in the mystery of the killings but when the characters will find out what the readers have known since chapter five. but i suppose that's a quite accurate depiction of abuse/gaslighting/grooming situations. and regardless, i was incredibly invested in the plotline.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ worldbuilding .ᐟ cursebreakers, as a whole, is somewhat weak on this point. i've been imagining a random ancient rome x steampunk victorian england mashup this entire time, and i genuinely don't know if it's meant to be that. the little explanations of the politics of astrum helped, but not as much as i would have liked. the dark academia/urban fantasy atmosphere is very much there, but there's not a lot that's specific to this series. there's a few modern terms replaced with medieval/french/whatever alternatives (caleche for carriage, etc) and some latin (?) terminology (basilissae, etc), but that's as extensive as the worldbuilding gets. kind of disappointing, as worldbuilding is usually my favorite part of a fantasy, but with how good everything else was, i didn't care that much.
overall, a mesmerizing novel and a mesmerizing series. i would read literally anything with these characters or just something set in the same universe. thank you to netgalley for the advanced copy!
genuinely mad at how good angel eye is because i tried reading two other books after i finished this and both are annoying me because they don't measure up.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ characters .ᐟ the main highlight of angel eye, like its predecessor cursebreakers, is very much the characters. adrien desfournraux, of course, was complex and fascinating and even more lovable than he was in the last book. i love the deeper exploration of adrien's akrasia, both in general and specifically how it was affected by the events of cursebreakers. his narrative was concluded perfectly. gennady was my favorite part of angel eye (brooding depressed 20 year old boy is such an excellent trope when he's not the romantic interest), and my one complaint is that i wish he would have appeared more often. his arc is satisfactory, but i do wish it would have been more fleshed out. like what happened to masha? of course, angel eye is from adrien's pov, and he had much bigger things to worry about. the other characters were lovely as well. malise is a gem, and i love that there's so many people in adrien's corner now. he deserves so much love.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ plot .ᐟ riveting, truly, but i do feel that the antagonist is given away too quickly. you can tell from their second or third appearance what's happening, and the suspense lies not in the mystery of the killings but when the characters will find out what the readers have known since chapter five. but i suppose that's a quite accurate depiction of abuse/gaslighting/grooming situations. and regardless, i was incredibly invested in the plotline.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ worldbuilding .ᐟ cursebreakers, as a whole, is somewhat weak on this point. i've been imagining a random ancient rome x steampunk victorian england mashup this entire time, and i genuinely don't know if it's meant to be that. the little explanations of the politics of astrum helped, but not as much as i would have liked. the dark academia/urban fantasy atmosphere is very much there, but there's not a lot that's specific to this series. there's a few modern terms replaced with medieval/french/whatever alternatives (caleche for carriage, etc) and some latin (?) terminology (basilissae, etc), but that's as extensive as the worldbuilding gets. kind of disappointing, as worldbuilding is usually my favorite part of a fantasy, but with how good everything else was, i didn't care that much.
overall, a mesmerizing novel and a mesmerizing series. i would read literally anything with these characters or just something set in the same universe. thank you to netgalley for the advanced copy!
May 9, 2025
i’m probably kind of biased because the author was kind enough to offer to give my oc-pharmakeiasona-guy a cameo in this book, which of course makes it an automatic five stars—because canonically existing in one of my favorite series is not something i ever thought id be able to claim—but even ignoring that angel eye was everything id hoped it would be. it’s just as hard-hitting as cursebreakers, some parts even more so. when i saw that the arc was free to download on netgalley i dropped EVERYTHING and read it in a night
adrien is just as entertaining and relatable and witty and tragic as ever. i really like the new characters in this—the villain of this book is SO entertaining and fun to hate. they’re absolutely diabolical and make kirchoff and mulcaster from the last book look boring. and adrien’s love interest is ADORABLE. i tend to dislike romantic subplots but this one was really cute and well deserved and i love seeing a story where someone who struggles as much as adrien does still gets to experience love.
i do wish malise and gennady were a little more present, because it didn’t feel like either of them had much of an arc, instead being sidelined for the sake of the new characters. i do kinda love how casmir was just completely written out of the story LMAO like yea we’ve had enough of him. and nitpicks about the magic system and worldbuilding being a bit sparse are valid, but i can’t really bring myself to care because the characters are the heart of everything here and that’s why i love this series so much anyway. there are plenty of books with steampunk vibes and elemental magic systems, but this is the only series ive encountered with a protagonist that makes me feel so, so seen.
adrien is just as entertaining and relatable and witty and tragic as ever. i really like the new characters in this—the villain of this book is SO entertaining and fun to hate. they’re absolutely diabolical and make kirchoff and mulcaster from the last book look boring. and adrien’s love interest is ADORABLE. i tend to dislike romantic subplots but this one was really cute and well deserved and i love seeing a story where someone who struggles as much as adrien does still gets to experience love.
i do wish malise and gennady were a little more present, because it didn’t feel like either of them had much of an arc, instead being sidelined for the sake of the new characters. i do kinda love how casmir was just completely written out of the story LMAO like yea we’ve had enough of him. and nitpicks about the magic system and worldbuilding being a bit sparse are valid, but i can’t really bring myself to care because the characters are the heart of everything here and that’s why i love this series so much anyway. there are plenty of books with steampunk vibes and elemental magic systems, but this is the only series ive encountered with a protagonist that makes me feel so, so seen.
May 16, 2025
Book Review: Angel Eye by Madeleine Nakamura
A Lush, Unconventional Fantasy That Dazzles and Disturbs
Madeleine Nakamura’s Angel Eye, the second installment in The Cursebreakers Series, is a genre-defying triumph—a darkly poetic fantasy that weaves magic, psychological depth, and queer themes into a narrative as sharp as a scalpel. Following the critically acclaimed first book, Nakamura delivers another Kirkus Starred Review-worthy tale, blending lyrical prose with unflinching emotional honesty.
Key Strengths
-Atmospheric Worldbuilding: The novel’s magic system feels both eerily familiar and startlingly original, with Nakamura’s signature blend of gothic elegance and visceral grit. The cursed city of Vareille is rendered in haunting detail, its shadows alive with danger and desire.
-Complex Protagonists: The queer-led cast, particularly the enigmatic protagonist, grapples with identity, power, and morality in ways that defy fantasy tropes. Their relationships are messy, tender, and deeply human.
-Thematic Boldness: Nakamura explores trauma, redemption, and the cost of defiance with a rare sensitivity. The story’s LGBTQIA+ themes are woven organically into the fabric of the plot, never feeling tokenistic.
Potential Considerations
-Pacing: The introspective, almost dreamlike prose may challenge readers seeking fast-paced action, though every sentence serves the novel’s hypnotic mood.
-Emotional Intensity: The psychological depth can be unsettling—this is a fantasy that lingers in the mind like a fever dream.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A labyrinthine journey where every twist feels earned.
-Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Unforgettable, flawed, and radiantly queer.
-Worldbuilding: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Vareille will haunt your imagination.
-Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – A genre alchemist at work.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5) – Like a whispered spell—beautiful, dangerous, and impossible to shake.
Ideal Audience
-Fans of The Raven Tower or The Spear Cuts Through Water who crave literary fantasy.
-Readers seeking LGBTQIA+ narratives that are integral rather than incidental.
-Those who relish prose that dances between poetry and prophecy.
Gratitude
Thank you to NetGalley and Madeleine Nakamura for the advance review copy. Angel Eye is a rare gem—a fantasy that cuts as deep as it dazzles.
Final Verdict
Nakamura cements her place as a visionary in speculative fiction with this sequel. While its deliberate pacing demands patience, the payoff is a story that glows in the dark—a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.
Note: This review reflects the ARC edition; minor changes may appear in the final publication.
A Lush, Unconventional Fantasy That Dazzles and Disturbs
Madeleine Nakamura’s Angel Eye, the second installment in The Cursebreakers Series, is a genre-defying triumph—a darkly poetic fantasy that weaves magic, psychological depth, and queer themes into a narrative as sharp as a scalpel. Following the critically acclaimed first book, Nakamura delivers another Kirkus Starred Review-worthy tale, blending lyrical prose with unflinching emotional honesty.
Key Strengths
-Atmospheric Worldbuilding: The novel’s magic system feels both eerily familiar and startlingly original, with Nakamura’s signature blend of gothic elegance and visceral grit. The cursed city of Vareille is rendered in haunting detail, its shadows alive with danger and desire.
-Complex Protagonists: The queer-led cast, particularly the enigmatic protagonist, grapples with identity, power, and morality in ways that defy fantasy tropes. Their relationships are messy, tender, and deeply human.
-Thematic Boldness: Nakamura explores trauma, redemption, and the cost of defiance with a rare sensitivity. The story’s LGBTQIA+ themes are woven organically into the fabric of the plot, never feeling tokenistic.
Potential Considerations
-Pacing: The introspective, almost dreamlike prose may challenge readers seeking fast-paced action, though every sentence serves the novel’s hypnotic mood.
-Emotional Intensity: The psychological depth can be unsettling—this is a fantasy that lingers in the mind like a fever dream.
Score Breakdown (Out of 5)
-Plot: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A labyrinthine journey where every twist feels earned.
-Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Unforgettable, flawed, and radiantly queer.
-Worldbuilding: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Vareille will haunt your imagination.
-Originality: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – A genre alchemist at work.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5) – Like a whispered spell—beautiful, dangerous, and impossible to shake.
Ideal Audience
-Fans of The Raven Tower or The Spear Cuts Through Water who crave literary fantasy.
-Readers seeking LGBTQIA+ narratives that are integral rather than incidental.
-Those who relish prose that dances between poetry and prophecy.
Gratitude
Thank you to NetGalley and Madeleine Nakamura for the advance review copy. Angel Eye is a rare gem—a fantasy that cuts as deep as it dazzles.
Final Verdict
Nakamura cements her place as a visionary in speculative fiction with this sequel. While its deliberate pacing demands patience, the payoff is a story that glows in the dark—a testament to the transformative power of storytelling.
Note: This review reflects the ARC edition; minor changes may appear in the final publication.
April 14, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Madeleine Nakamura's Angel Eye is the gut-wrenching sequel to the excellent 2023 debut Cursebreakers. It's a fast paced, tightly woven thriller, and the first half is absolutely anxiety-inducing and heart-breaking. The themes from the first novel are further explored, giving a nuanced read on addiction, mental illness, and hypersexuality, while also teeming with overwhelming kindness and understanding for battered protagonist Adrien, who just can't seem to catch a break. In this book, his support system grows exponentially, and it's a joy to read amidst the tears.
All the characters from the first novel get their moments to shine, their relationship to Adrien front and center, but it's the new characters that really sell this book and make this a perfect sequel, building on the already strong foundations and creating a perfect gem. Adrien's new keeper is an incredibly intense figure, sharp and terrifying and bigger than life; and his new love interest is just what he needs, sweet and loyal and utterly unafraid, their relationship growing organically and beautifully. There are othere addictions to the cast, all absolutely delightful.
The worldbuilding was really the only thing that I thought had some small problems in the first novel, and here the issues are corrected thanks to a more narrowed focus on the city and its politics. We also lose a bit of the focused academic setting, but it works because it allows for a more thorough exploration.
This book adds on the mental anguish from the first one by adding physical and mental torture, gaslighting, and attempted rape; as such, one might want to proceed with caution, but it's a rewarding read.
Angel Eye is an excellent sequel.
Madeleine Nakamura's Angel Eye is the gut-wrenching sequel to the excellent 2023 debut Cursebreakers. It's a fast paced, tightly woven thriller, and the first half is absolutely anxiety-inducing and heart-breaking. The themes from the first novel are further explored, giving a nuanced read on addiction, mental illness, and hypersexuality, while also teeming with overwhelming kindness and understanding for battered protagonist Adrien, who just can't seem to catch a break. In this book, his support system grows exponentially, and it's a joy to read amidst the tears.
All the characters from the first novel get their moments to shine, their relationship to Adrien front and center, but it's the new characters that really sell this book and make this a perfect sequel, building on the already strong foundations and creating a perfect gem. Adrien's new keeper is an incredibly intense figure, sharp and terrifying and bigger than life; and his new love interest is just what he needs, sweet and loyal and utterly unafraid, their relationship growing organically and beautifully. There are othere addictions to the cast, all absolutely delightful.
The worldbuilding was really the only thing that I thought had some small problems in the first novel, and here the issues are corrected thanks to a more narrowed focus on the city and its politics. We also lose a bit of the focused academic setting, but it works because it allows for a more thorough exploration.
This book adds on the mental anguish from the first one by adding physical and mental torture, gaslighting, and attempted rape; as such, one might want to proceed with caution, but it's a rewarding read.
Angel Eye is an excellent sequel.
June 13, 2025
Just as brilliant as the first one.
Picking up a few months after Cursebreakers, Angel Eye sees Adrien thrown again into a deadly conflict, and the stakes are higher than ever. A serial killer is on the loose, and the inquisitors tasked to solve the case might prove to be just as dangerous.
This book was everything I wanted and more. It was heavily character-driven while still maintaining an engaging plot, and I loved just how personal the conflict felt for the main character. It was definitely darker than the first book, but I love the rawness with which the author tackles the subject of mental health.
The relationships between the characters, new and returning, were the crux of the story, and I cannot stress enough just how much I loved that the friendship between Malise and Adrien was treated just as important as his romantic relationship. I hope we see more of these new characters in future sequels, especially Xantha, I found her very endearing.
Angel Eye has truly solidified the Cursebreakers series as one of my favorites, these books are truly hidden gems and I am so glad to have discovered them.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Red Hen Press for this Advanced Reader Copy!
Picking up a few months after Cursebreakers, Angel Eye sees Adrien thrown again into a deadly conflict, and the stakes are higher than ever. A serial killer is on the loose, and the inquisitors tasked to solve the case might prove to be just as dangerous.
This book was everything I wanted and more. It was heavily character-driven while still maintaining an engaging plot, and I loved just how personal the conflict felt for the main character. It was definitely darker than the first book, but I love the rawness with which the author tackles the subject of mental health.
The relationships between the characters, new and returning, were the crux of the story, and I cannot stress enough just how much I loved that the friendship between Malise and Adrien was treated just as important as his romantic relationship. I hope we see more of these new characters in future sequels, especially Xantha, I found her very endearing.
Angel Eye has truly solidified the Cursebreakers series as one of my favorites, these books are truly hidden gems and I am so glad to have discovered them.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Red Hen Press for this Advanced Reader Copy!
June 25, 2025
I loved this second book so much more than the first and I didn't even think that was possible. Being back in Adrien's story was just as engrossing as the first time, but with a MUCH scarier villain wreaking havoc and the introduction of even more lovable side characters. Nakamura knows how to make you feel like this cast is made up of real people, even when they're wizards!
Gennady, as he was in book 1, is the MVP and gets lines that made me guffaw. I love him as a counterpoint to the many other people in Adrien's life, to show care can take many forms. He doesn't always understand Adrien's mind, but he refuses to let that stop him, and I love him for it.
Theo & Valary, our inquisitors, were so fun to throw into the mix! If we get more sequels, I'd love to see them again. And OLIVER. Perfect man, no notes, even if he has terrible taste in clothing & decor. I will always love a romance that does not "cure" mental illness. He gets a line involving the word "anyone" that was a GUT PUNCH right in the feels. Only the mentally and/or chronically ill will understand how perfect those words were.
I would absolutely read more in this world, but in case this is the end, I'm glad we went out on a high. New all time favorite.
Gennady, as he was in book 1, is the MVP and gets lines that made me guffaw. I love him as a counterpoint to the many other people in Adrien's life, to show care can take many forms. He doesn't always understand Adrien's mind, but he refuses to let that stop him, and I love him for it.
Theo & Valary, our inquisitors, were so fun to throw into the mix! If we get more sequels, I'd love to see them again. And OLIVER. Perfect man, no notes, even if he has terrible taste in clothing & decor. I will always love a romance that does not "cure" mental illness. He gets a line involving the word "anyone" that was a GUT PUNCH right in the feels. Only the mentally and/or chronically ill will understand how perfect those words were.
I would absolutely read more in this world, but in case this is the end, I'm glad we went out on a high. New all time favorite.
August 20, 2025
I was so excited for this book to come out, and it absolutely did not disappoint! The sense of danger at times had me reading while pacing the floor. Astrum feels like a real place to me, ugly and beautiful at the same time, like all real places.
July 31, 2025
Thank you to Red Hen Press and the author (Madeleine Nakamura) for this beautiful gifted ARC copy.
Adrien!!! You’re back!!
I was so excited to dive back into the mind and world of my lil baby professor/professional mess <3 I love that I already know the world, so I could slip back in with no hesitation.
WOW this poor guy, I think I’d most definitely have a breakdown if this much trouble found me. Once again, we see him in peril- there’s a murderer (an angel of death, if you will) killing hospital patients, and the idiot inquisitors are on the case. But, surprise surprise, Adrien ends up in the middle of the whole ordeal, scared for his life and crossing his fingers that everything ends up okay for him and his loved ones.
I absolutely looooved the added, deeper emotional elements in the relationships in this book! I am not generally a romance person, but Nakamura seriously knocked this out of the park. It’s the perfect blend of creepy, queer, magical, human, and romantic.
My complaints: the one thing I was confused about was the days of the week, I believe? Adrien starts referencing proper nouns that I gathered were names for days of the week in the middle of the book. I can’t remember if these were referenced in book 1, but if so I don’t recall- these proved a little confusing. It’s a minor detail, but maybe an added sentence referencing “ah the first day of the week (day name)” or something would’ve given me a jumping off point.
One other small comment (very small and nit-picky of me!!) is that I did see some of the twists coming. I read a good amt of thrillers, so could just be I was well suited to this story. BUT! I absolutely loved the execution so much! I didn’t mind, and even doubted myself a time or two when I thought I had it figured out.
I truly enjoyed every page, and the ending was just so Adrien. I’m doing my absolute BEST not to spoil anything bc you’ll definitely wanna pick this one up!
Adrien!!! You’re back!!
I was so excited to dive back into the mind and world of my lil baby professor/professional mess <3 I love that I already know the world, so I could slip back in with no hesitation.
WOW this poor guy, I think I’d most definitely have a breakdown if this much trouble found me. Once again, we see him in peril- there’s a murderer (an angel of death, if you will) killing hospital patients, and the idiot inquisitors are on the case. But, surprise surprise, Adrien ends up in the middle of the whole ordeal, scared for his life and crossing his fingers that everything ends up okay for him and his loved ones.
I absolutely looooved the added, deeper emotional elements in the relationships in this book! I am not generally a romance person, but Nakamura seriously knocked this out of the park. It’s the perfect blend of creepy, queer, magical, human, and romantic.
My complaints: the one thing I was confused about was the days of the week, I believe? Adrien starts referencing proper nouns that I gathered were names for days of the week in the middle of the book. I can’t remember if these were referenced in book 1, but if so I don’t recall- these proved a little confusing. It’s a minor detail, but maybe an added sentence referencing “ah the first day of the week (day name)” or something would’ve given me a jumping off point.
One other small comment (very small and nit-picky of me!!) is that I did see some of the twists coming. I read a good amt of thrillers, so could just be I was well suited to this story. BUT! I absolutely loved the execution so much! I didn’t mind, and even doubted myself a time or two when I thought I had it figured out.
I truly enjoyed every page, and the ending was just so Adrien. I’m doing my absolute BEST not to spoil anything bc you’ll definitely wanna pick this one up!
August 28, 2025
What do I even say? This book unhinged me.
If Cursebreakers was captivating then Angel Eye just outright kidnapped me and refused to let me go. I found myself inventing excuses to get back to reading in a way I very rarely do, I was just so entranced with all the feeling behind the narrative and everything I thought might happen.
Once again I adored Adrien, though in a very different flavour this time. This time the source of his struggles are largely external and so he shines in different ways - his behaviour is not the same, it’s an entirely different set up, and we know him well enough now that we can really SEE everything playing out every step of the way. The narrative does not try to hide the ultimate culprit at large, it’s telegraphed consistently enough that it becomes largely unmissable, and this invites the reader to really sit with the constant dread of everything that laces its way through every reasonable action. We love Adrien in all his faults and all his tempers, but you also see so much more of his good side this time around - and without saying more, the Moment where he figures out what’s happening, and the reason why he suddenly sees it? Oh, so deeply emotional, so deeply earned, it packaged up the rest of the narrative with golden thread and sent it soaring.
The other characters are just as enjoyable this time too - Malise is even more of a star than ever, and even though we see much less of Gennady (to my deep sadness) he had plenty of time to shine. Gailhardt, Oliver, and Xantha were all such delights, and each of them showed such incredible care for Adrien that I looked forward to any time we had for them. (I know they haven’t even met yet but I am rooting for Gailhardt and Malise!) By the end of the narrative we plateau in such a kind and loving atmosphere that I wonder if that will be the end of Adrien’s story outright. It will be a shame if we never see more of this incredible world, but I wouldn’t begrudge him his happy ending.
Just for the heck of it, I had a few more thoughts about the structure of the novel - not because they made me enjoy the story any less, but because they seemed like such interesting writing choices that I just really want to pick them apart.
But those are just some very minor structural thoughts I couldn’t help but dwell over purely because I loved it all so much. I’ve loved my time in this world much more than I could have anticipated, and if we ever get to go back I will be the first in line to see what happens next!
If Cursebreakers was captivating then Angel Eye just outright kidnapped me and refused to let me go. I found myself inventing excuses to get back to reading in a way I very rarely do, I was just so entranced with all the feeling behind the narrative and everything I thought might happen.
Once again I adored Adrien, though in a very different flavour this time. This time the source of his struggles are largely external and so he shines in different ways - his behaviour is not the same, it’s an entirely different set up, and we know him well enough now that we can really SEE everything playing out every step of the way. The narrative does not try to hide the ultimate culprit at large, it’s telegraphed consistently enough that it becomes largely unmissable, and this invites the reader to really sit with the constant dread of everything that laces its way through every reasonable action. We love Adrien in all his faults and all his tempers, but you also see so much more of his good side this time around - and without saying more, the Moment where he figures out what’s happening, and the reason why he suddenly sees it? Oh, so deeply emotional, so deeply earned, it packaged up the rest of the narrative with golden thread and sent it soaring.
The other characters are just as enjoyable this time too - Malise is even more of a star than ever, and even though we see much less of Gennady (to my deep sadness) he had plenty of time to shine. Gailhardt, Oliver, and Xantha were all such delights, and each of them showed such incredible care for Adrien that I looked forward to any time we had for them. (I know they haven’t even met yet but I am rooting for Gailhardt and Malise!) By the end of the narrative we plateau in such a kind and loving atmosphere that I wonder if that will be the end of Adrien’s story outright. It will be a shame if we never see more of this incredible world, but I wouldn’t begrudge him his happy ending.
Just for the heck of it, I had a few more thoughts about the structure of the novel - not because they made me enjoy the story any less, but because they seemed like such interesting writing choices that I just really want to pick them apart.
But those are just some very minor structural thoughts I couldn’t help but dwell over purely because I loved it all so much. I’ve loved my time in this world much more than I could have anticipated, and if we ever get to go back I will be the first in line to see what happens next!
June 1, 2025
To be honest, this book stressed me out in a good way. It was a great sequel to Cursebreakers but I was feeling bad for our MMC. He was going through so much in this book. I loved the romance in this and the protective friendships. Just felt simple and natural to the story.
My only suggestion is for adding trigger warnings about torture and a few other things but I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
#netgalley
My only suggestion is for adding trigger warnings about torture and a few other things but I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
#netgalley
May 5, 2025
An interesting book… fantasy, characters that you get to know deeply. I hadn’t read the first book so not sure if that impacted my experience. Well written and slow burn story.. Thank you to the author. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher.
July 14, 2025
Angel Eye by Madeleine Nakamura
Angel Eye is a book that slowly winds the reader’s anxiety up and up and up. Madeleine Nakamura builds tension and a sense of dread word by word, paragraph by paragraph, chapter by chapter. However, Nakamura writes such a compellingly well written story that it’s impossible to stop reading/listening despite knowing that things are going to go bad for Adrien, professor of magic and disgraced ex-physician. As a result of his fight to save Astrum from a magical curse in book one, Cursebreakers, Adrien’s magical core is damaged, and his self-doubt and guilt make him terribly vulnerable. He does not trust his own intuition and actions, and he has the worst luck! When the hospital and Solarium experience an outbreak of patient deaths due to heart attack, Adrien gets himself entangled with the Inquisitors, swings from being defiant and outspoken to timidity and cowardice. Making things worse, Adrien must have a “keeper” to watch over him when his dicrazium (or bipolar Type 1) flares up. He hires Dr. Florian Albrecht, a respected physician and experienced keeper. Florian moves in with Adrien and under the guise of keeping Adrien safe, manipulates the man into greater self-doubt and slowly isolates him from his friends. When Florian offers to treat Adrien’s magical damage, he inflicts a level of mental control that results in pain and memory loss. Nakamura makes no secret that Florian is a psychopath and indeed uses Florian’s character to ratchet up the anxiety!
Madeleine Nakamura creates an amazing magical world of academics, doctors, military, religion, and a branch of the government called the Inquisitors. This group operates with impunity, bypassing the rights of citizens to justice by normal means. Reminiscent of the Spanish Inquisition, the Inquisitors use kidnapping, torture and ruthless intimidation to speed up the imprisonment or execution of any magic user unfortunate enough to come under their suspicion.
I confess to having to take breaks from Nakamura’s world because it is horrific in many ways, and all too parallel to events in the United States at this very moment.
I’m glad I persisted in finishing however, because the finale takes us on an exciting, dangerous, and unpredictable rollercoaster of events. I won’t give any more spoilers but this is a book worth reading or listening to. Highly recommended!
Tim Lounibos is the perfect voice actor to narrate this book. If you’re an audiobook listener, you know that a good narrator can elevate a book to greater enjoyment for the reader/listener, and Lounibos is terrific!
Angel Eye is a book that slowly winds the reader’s anxiety up and up and up. Madeleine Nakamura builds tension and a sense of dread word by word, paragraph by paragraph, chapter by chapter. However, Nakamura writes such a compellingly well written story that it’s impossible to stop reading/listening despite knowing that things are going to go bad for Adrien, professor of magic and disgraced ex-physician. As a result of his fight to save Astrum from a magical curse in book one, Cursebreakers, Adrien’s magical core is damaged, and his self-doubt and guilt make him terribly vulnerable. He does not trust his own intuition and actions, and he has the worst luck! When the hospital and Solarium experience an outbreak of patient deaths due to heart attack, Adrien gets himself entangled with the Inquisitors, swings from being defiant and outspoken to timidity and cowardice. Making things worse, Adrien must have a “keeper” to watch over him when his dicrazium (or bipolar Type 1) flares up. He hires Dr. Florian Albrecht, a respected physician and experienced keeper. Florian moves in with Adrien and under the guise of keeping Adrien safe, manipulates the man into greater self-doubt and slowly isolates him from his friends. When Florian offers to treat Adrien’s magical damage, he inflicts a level of mental control that results in pain and memory loss. Nakamura makes no secret that Florian is a psychopath and indeed uses Florian’s character to ratchet up the anxiety!
Madeleine Nakamura creates an amazing magical world of academics, doctors, military, religion, and a branch of the government called the Inquisitors. This group operates with impunity, bypassing the rights of citizens to justice by normal means. Reminiscent of the Spanish Inquisition, the Inquisitors use kidnapping, torture and ruthless intimidation to speed up the imprisonment or execution of any magic user unfortunate enough to come under their suspicion.
I confess to having to take breaks from Nakamura’s world because it is horrific in many ways, and all too parallel to events in the United States at this very moment.
I’m glad I persisted in finishing however, because the finale takes us on an exciting, dangerous, and unpredictable rollercoaster of events. I won’t give any more spoilers but this is a book worth reading or listening to. Highly recommended!
Tim Lounibos is the perfect voice actor to narrate this book. If you’re an audiobook listener, you know that a good narrator can elevate a book to greater enjoyment for the reader/listener, and Lounibos is terrific!
April 11, 2025
Full disclosure: I was asked to blurb this book. (Which was both easy and a genuine pleasure to do, because I loved it start to finish!)
In my review of Cursebreakers, I mentioned that even though I read it in January, I knew it was going to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
Angel Eye is another favorite read. It's not only AS good as Cursebreakers but, if anything, even more compelling. All the interesting themes from Cursebreakers get carried forward and it builds so, so perfectly. The dread during the thrilling parts is so real that I found myself reading with one hand over my face as if that would help me avoid seeing it... but despite that, the humor was still there. And the kind parts were so very kind, that even through the fear I felt like I could trust Nakamura at every step.
It was such a deeply satisfying read, and I loved the characters so, so much. All the old ones get their chance to shine, and the new ones are all deeply compelling and interesting; everyone felt so real. Also I simp and would die for Oliver. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
In my review of Cursebreakers, I mentioned that even though I read it in January, I knew it was going to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
Angel Eye is another favorite read. It's not only AS good as Cursebreakers but, if anything, even more compelling. All the interesting themes from Cursebreakers get carried forward and it builds so, so perfectly. The dread during the thrilling parts is so real that I found myself reading with one hand over my face as if that would help me avoid seeing it... but despite that, the humor was still there. And the kind parts were so very kind, that even through the fear I felt like I could trust Nakamura at every step.
It was such a deeply satisfying read, and I loved the characters so, so much. All the old ones get their chance to shine, and the new ones are all deeply compelling and interesting; everyone felt so real. Also I simp and would die for Oliver. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
June 8, 2025
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Angel Eye is the second book in a queer friendly mystery fantasy series by Madeleine Nakamura. Released 3rd June 2025, it's 280 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.
This is an often disturbing, directly written, and engaging novel. It would not surprise me one bit to find out that the author often has to explain on public appearances and signings why she tortures her characters so unrepentantly in the course of the books. Sensitive readers should be aware going in that there are disturbing themes including psychological manipulation, gaslighting, grooming, and abuse. Additionally, there are scenes of graphic violence and torture which were difficult to read in places.
That being said, the plot is sound and the pacing moves along at a good clip. The characterizations are well rendered and believable for the genre.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Angel Eye is the second book in a queer friendly mystery fantasy series by Madeleine Nakamura. Released 3rd June 2025, it's 280 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.
This is an often disturbing, directly written, and engaging novel. It would not surprise me one bit to find out that the author often has to explain on public appearances and signings why she tortures her characters so unrepentantly in the course of the books. Sensitive readers should be aware going in that there are disturbing themes including psychological manipulation, gaslighting, grooming, and abuse. Additionally, there are scenes of graphic violence and torture which were difficult to read in places.
That being said, the plot is sound and the pacing moves along at a good clip. The characterizations are well rendered and believable for the genre.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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June 9, 2025Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC!
Content warnings: institutionalisation, torture, gaslighting
DNF @ 49%
I loved the first book so I was excited to read this but I had to DNF.
I like this world, and I love the characters, but like the first book, Angel Eye deals a lot with mental health, particularly with medical institutions. I suppose it is deliberate, to be compared with real life medical malpractise, but I hate how Adrien is mistreated and gaslighted. He's been through so much in Cursebreaker, and now he has to suffer some more?? I DNFed because the way he is being treated is infuriating and since I'm at the halfway point I predict things will definitely get much worse before they get better, and idk if I have the strength to get through that.
There are some positives: I loved getting to see Gennady again, I think he's my favourite character in this series also he should be allowed to do as much violence as he wants. There is also a new romance for Adrien! This guy seems nice and genuine, and is easily much better than Casmir.
Honestly I'm just not in the right headspace, this book is too heavy for me right now. I might try to get back to this again in the future.
Content warnings: institutionalisation, torture, gaslighting
DNF @ 49%
I loved the first book so I was excited to read this but I had to DNF.
I like this world, and I love the characters, but like the first book, Angel Eye deals a lot with mental health, particularly with medical institutions. I suppose it is deliberate, to be compared with real life medical malpractise, but I hate how Adrien is mistreated and gaslighted. He's been through so much in Cursebreaker, and now he has to suffer some more?? I DNFed because the way he is being treated is infuriating and since I'm at the halfway point I predict things will definitely get much worse before they get better, and idk if I have the strength to get through that.
There are some positives: I loved getting to see Gennady again, I think he's my favourite character in this series also he should be allowed to do as much violence as he wants. There is also a new romance for Adrien! This guy seems nice and genuine, and is easily much better than Casmir.
Honestly I'm just not in the right headspace, this book is too heavy for me right now. I might try to get back to this again in the future.
July 22, 2025
First off, I really do enjoy this series and I'm kind of surprised it has so little reviews.
I have a lot of the same thoughts as I did with the first one.
Lots of fantastical words (though, not having reread the first one- I was pleasantly surprised how much stuck with me. I expected to have to relearn what all the buildings and such were, but I was fine.)
I still don't feel like I understand the term 'akratic' used here. He really never seemed as problematic as he was hyped up to be. But I still like the MC.
Overall, would recommend and if there are ever more written in this series, I will likely read them. (Though, everything was wrapped up, so I doubt there will be more.)
I have a lot of the same thoughts as I did with the first one.
Lots of fantastical words (though, not having reread the first one- I was pleasantly surprised how much stuck with me. I expected to have to relearn what all the buildings and such were, but I was fine.)
I still don't feel like I understand the term 'akratic' used here. He really never seemed as problematic as he was hyped up to be. But I still like the MC.
Overall, would recommend and if there are ever more written in this series, I will likely read them. (Though, everything was wrapped up, so I doubt there will be more.)
June 7, 2025
Slow-burn story with tension, trauma and psychological manipulation.
The first part of the book is trying to figure out the antagonist. The second part is how to get away from him. I did like the concept even though I had figured out who the villain was. There was a lot of gaslighting and grooming scenes here but they worked with the plot. There isn't much world building, but I think that's with a purpose. If this had been explored further, it would have diminished Angel Eye.
Thank you to NetGalley and Red Hen Press for an ARC.
The first part of the book is trying to figure out the antagonist. The second part is how to get away from him. I did like the concept even though I had figured out who the villain was. There was a lot of gaslighting and grooming scenes here but they worked with the plot. There isn't much world building, but I think that's with a purpose. If this had been explored further, it would have diminished Angel Eye.
Thank you to NetGalley and Red Hen Press for an ARC.
August 20, 2025
Loved this book! A fantastic follow-up to Cursebreakers 1.
August 31, 2025
Review pending- I’m dealing with The Feels first
October 8, 2025
Major CW for gaslighting and manipulation.
This was fantastic. I liked it even better than the first book.
This was fantastic. I liked it even better than the first book.
November 4, 2025
Love it when the second book in the duology is better than the first!
November 17, 2025
Excellent follow-up book - but I honestly still have no clue how to pronounce half the names of places. There was great descriptive imagery, which was deeply disturbing at times, but excellent. For some bizarre reason this book kept reminding me of AP Lit & Dramatic Irony - but it just fits so well... Again horribly disturbing situation, but excellently written!
December 28, 2025
“a flare of petty drama possessed me. i’m made of poison. i’m a black hole. i’m a parasite that always kills its host.”
“cursebreakers” was an easy favourite for me in 2023, and "angel eye" lived up to the expectations, taking a far darker turn than i had anticipated.
if i had to describe “angel eye” in a word, it’s dread. dread, sinking deep into my stomach, making me shiver feverishly. each page, the tension building and building, knowing and seeing what adrien doesn’t yet see, until it all implodes. nakamura built a gut-twisting, chilling atmosphere. a killer you may pinpoint with relative ease, yet be unable to guess the next steps.
the character work was as compelling as the last book — adrien, always teetering between his pride and the lurking shadow of doubt that hides his daemon. malaise and gennady who, despite not shining quite as prominently, stealing the show when they appear. and oliver, sweet wonderful bisexual who is so instantly lovable and who brought colour into the bleak terror of the setting.
“angel eye” felt far more introspective than “cursebreakers” and a lot more claustrophobic in its structure. it felt somewhat a shame — what glimpses we get into the world are intriguing, and more books should have a field trip to the local museum as a worldbuilding device. i would love more of a historical exploration, something to bring some more life into the surroundings.
we get a brief flashback into adrien’s youth, giving a better understanding of how his illness has impacted his life over the years, as well as how it correlated to his hypersexuality. however, some more of such introspective moments would’ve been a treat. the 280 pages left somewhat restrictive for the plot, leading to the ending feeling a tad rushed. we get some interactions with adrien's students and peers, but they also feel cut short to account for the page count.
although it didn't leave me quite as enchanted as its predecessor, “angel eye” is one to keep the reader wide-eyed and shuddering, as they piece the puzzle together, just a few steps ahead of adrien — and just one step too many behind the angel.
“cursebreakers” was an easy favourite for me in 2023, and "angel eye" lived up to the expectations, taking a far darker turn than i had anticipated.
if i had to describe “angel eye” in a word, it’s dread. dread, sinking deep into my stomach, making me shiver feverishly. each page, the tension building and building, knowing and seeing what adrien doesn’t yet see, until it all implodes. nakamura built a gut-twisting, chilling atmosphere. a killer you may pinpoint with relative ease, yet be unable to guess the next steps.
the character work was as compelling as the last book — adrien, always teetering between his pride and the lurking shadow of doubt that hides his daemon. malaise and gennady who, despite not shining quite as prominently, stealing the show when they appear. and oliver, sweet wonderful bisexual who is so instantly lovable and who brought colour into the bleak terror of the setting.
“angel eye” felt far more introspective than “cursebreakers” and a lot more claustrophobic in its structure. it felt somewhat a shame — what glimpses we get into the world are intriguing, and more books should have a field trip to the local museum as a worldbuilding device. i would love more of a historical exploration, something to bring some more life into the surroundings.
we get a brief flashback into adrien’s youth, giving a better understanding of how his illness has impacted his life over the years, as well as how it correlated to his hypersexuality. however, some more of such introspective moments would’ve been a treat. the 280 pages left somewhat restrictive for the plot, leading to the ending feeling a tad rushed. we get some interactions with adrien's students and peers, but they also feel cut short to account for the page count.
although it didn't leave me quite as enchanted as its predecessor, “angel eye” is one to keep the reader wide-eyed and shuddering, as they piece the puzzle together, just a few steps ahead of adrien — and just one step too many behind the angel.
December 10, 2025
This has it all - wonderful story, storytelling *and* writing!
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