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Cursed by Gold
Everything he touched turned to gold…except her.
The first time Scarlet failed to steal the Bodian necklace from the palace, Fairy Godmother had forgiven her. The second time, she sent in reinforcements. But Scarlet can’t let that happen. It didn’t matter what the rules for Fairy Godmothers' thieves guild were. Her family's money was running out and if she couldn’t bring in money soon stepmother was going to marry her off to the highest bidder, no matter who that was.
Remme hadn’t eaten, felt the touch of another human, or worn anything comfortable in years. But when a thief tried to steal the one thing that could break his curse and they didn’t turn, everything changed. He just needed to figure out who she was and why she wanted the necklace. It should be easy for a king, but nothing was ever that simple when magic was involved.
Cursed by Gold is book one in the Once Upon a Curse series.
If you love the vibes of Throne of Glass, the trials of Hunger Games, the missing love interest of Cinderella and the untouchable curse of King Midas, Cursed by Gold is for you.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2024
127 people are currently reading
1283 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
December 13, 2024
1 stars.
Thank you to the publisher and author for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was my fourth consecutive 2-star read in a week (well, this one is 1 stars though). I’m frustrated.
The cover was beautiful, and it was a retelling of King Midas and Cinderella, so I really didn’t think it could go wrong. I hoped it would pull me out of my reading slump, but nope, here we are.
This book had no depth. The world-building? Almost nonexistent. The characters? Flat as paper. The chemistry? Completely off. The story? Didn’t make any sense. And I knooow it’s fantasy, I knoooow, but it still has to make some sense, right?
I found it ridiculous how everything was handed to the FMC on a silver platter. How did she manage to sneak into the castle and the King's chamber without anyone noticing? Where were the other guards? And slipping out was just as easy. Seriously? This bugged me so much.
The tournament scenes were so childish, and don’t even get me started on the catacomb part—it felt like I was reading an Indiana Jones game walkthrough. And of course, the characters just breezed through everything. There were puzzles and riddles, but there was barely any description, and suddenly the FMC could solve them with no effort. I hated that.
Then out of nowhere, there's this God's Thief Staff, and I was like what? No buildup, no explanation about the Thief’s God, and suddenly, near the end of the book, poof! Here it is. I hated it.
And then there’s this line:
I reach the window and smash it with the hilt of my dagger. The stained glass shatters, raining colorful shards around me.”
Make. It. Make. Sense. How does one smash a window with a dagger, and then the glass rains down around them like that? Where’s the logic? Where’s the physics? I knoooow it’s a small thing, but it bugged me so much I had to highlight it.
Writing this review just made me hate the book more. I initially gave it 2 stars, but after ranting, it’s definitely 1 star.
Thank you to the publisher and author for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was my fourth consecutive 2-star read in a week (well, this one is 1 stars though). I’m frustrated.
The cover was beautiful, and it was a retelling of King Midas and Cinderella, so I really didn’t think it could go wrong. I hoped it would pull me out of my reading slump, but nope, here we are.
This book had no depth. The world-building? Almost nonexistent. The characters? Flat as paper. The chemistry? Completely off. The story? Didn’t make any sense. And I knooow it’s fantasy, I knoooow, but it still has to make some sense, right?
I found it ridiculous how everything was handed to the FMC on a silver platter. How did she manage to sneak into the castle and the King's chamber without anyone noticing? Where were the other guards? And slipping out was just as easy. Seriously? This bugged me so much.
The tournament scenes were so childish, and don’t even get me started on the catacomb part—it felt like I was reading an Indiana Jones game walkthrough. And of course, the characters just breezed through everything. There were puzzles and riddles, but there was barely any description, and suddenly the FMC could solve them with no effort. I hated that.
Then out of nowhere, there's this God's Thief Staff, and I was like what? No buildup, no explanation about the Thief’s God, and suddenly, near the end of the book, poof! Here it is. I hated it.
And then there’s this line:
I reach the window and smash it with the hilt of my dagger. The stained glass shatters, raining colorful shards around me.”
Make. It. Make. Sense. How does one smash a window with a dagger, and then the glass rains down around them like that? Where’s the logic? Where’s the physics? I knoooow it’s a small thing, but it bugged me so much I had to highlight it.
Writing this review just made me hate the book more. I initially gave it 2 stars, but after ranting, it’s definitely 1 star.
August 21, 2024
I got an early copy from the author and I absolutely loved this book! I enjoyed the characters and the story. I will definitely re read when it comes out.
January 10, 2025
The premise of this book was cool. The execution was not.
February 19, 2025
Written by AI and a thesaurus, can’t believe I spent money on this.
September 10, 2024
-I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review-
I never would've thought of Cinderella being paired with King Midas, but honestly it's a pretty good match. Scarlet and Remme are such an interesting combination
I like the idea of Scarlet/Cinderella turning to crime to save her family name. Rather than just being a pushover, she's actively doing whatever she can to keep herself afloat. If she's so close to Fairy Godmother though, I don't know why FG wouldn't just order a hit on the stepmother to solve all of Scarlet's problems (I guess that solution is just too easy)
I know glass slippers are a Cinderella thing but they really don't make sense for a thief. I think it could've been ugly shoes and like all the noblewomen couldn't hide their disgust long enough to put it on, would've been funny. I do wonder why the glass slippers were included though if they never made a reappearance other than the size. Also for her being the "best of the best" she's caught way too quickly every time :/
Nobody seems to have brains in the GGG because you'd think after the FL got caught TWICE they would conisder that the king has been putting really obvious traps out. Like, if I tried to steal the crown and got caught I wouldn't go to a competition to win the crown held pretty much the next day. Especially when you lost a shoe and they ask your SHOE SIZE to enter. That's just asking to be arrested. Rose and Scarlet are also really loud and obvious, constantly whispering in corners or talking about their jobs without taking heed of who is around.
The first part of the story really flew by quickly to set up for the challenges. The way the king is shown to set up these challenges to catch the thief is pretty brilliant, and I very much enjoyed the subterfuge on his side. I also LOVE the camaraderie between Rose and Scarlet. The constant bickering and rivalry but yet always having each other's backs makes them seem like sisters. It did flip flop quite a bit throughout the book though, sometimes a little too extreme.
The magic, when it appears, is pretty cool. They have artifacts and enchantments, but I feel like sometimes theyre just randomly thrown in? There doesn't seem to be an established magic system, just magic exists and is there when it's convenient. I think the spell to make someone not have to pee anymore was a little too strange for me.
I really liked how the story was resolved. *spoiler* The King choosing wrong, and the consequences, the disaster of a wedding and fight, and figuring out the curse together were so cute!
Overall, I really liked the story. The plot progressed in a meaningful way, and the characters were so lovable and fun (even if they were a little dumb at times). I wish we could've known a bit more about the origin of Remme's curse and seen Scarlet get her inheritance back, but those are minor points compared to the rest of the story. Highly recommend, a very fun read!
I never would've thought of Cinderella being paired with King Midas, but honestly it's a pretty good match. Scarlet and Remme are such an interesting combination
I like the idea of Scarlet/Cinderella turning to crime to save her family name. Rather than just being a pushover, she's actively doing whatever she can to keep herself afloat. If she's so close to Fairy Godmother though, I don't know why FG wouldn't just order a hit on the stepmother to solve all of Scarlet's problems (I guess that solution is just too easy)
I know glass slippers are a Cinderella thing but they really don't make sense for a thief. I think it could've been ugly shoes and like all the noblewomen couldn't hide their disgust long enough to put it on, would've been funny. I do wonder why the glass slippers were included though if they never made a reappearance other than the size. Also for her being the "best of the best" she's caught way too quickly every time :/
Nobody seems to have brains in the GGG because you'd think after the FL got caught TWICE they would conisder that the king has been putting really obvious traps out. Like, if I tried to steal the crown and got caught I wouldn't go to a competition to win the crown held pretty much the next day. Especially when you lost a shoe and they ask your SHOE SIZE to enter. That's just asking to be arrested. Rose and Scarlet are also really loud and obvious, constantly whispering in corners or talking about their jobs without taking heed of who is around.
The first part of the story really flew by quickly to set up for the challenges. The way the king is shown to set up these challenges to catch the thief is pretty brilliant, and I very much enjoyed the subterfuge on his side. I also LOVE the camaraderie between Rose and Scarlet. The constant bickering and rivalry but yet always having each other's backs makes them seem like sisters. It did flip flop quite a bit throughout the book though, sometimes a little too extreme.
The magic, when it appears, is pretty cool. They have artifacts and enchantments, but I feel like sometimes theyre just randomly thrown in? There doesn't seem to be an established magic system, just magic exists and is there when it's convenient. I think the spell to make someone not have to pee anymore was a little too strange for me.
I really liked how the story was resolved. *spoiler* The King choosing wrong, and the consequences, the disaster of a wedding and fight, and figuring out the curse together were so cute!
Overall, I really liked the story. The plot progressed in a meaningful way, and the characters were so lovable and fun (even if they were a little dumb at times). I wish we could've known a bit more about the origin of Remme's curse and seen Scarlet get her inheritance back, but those are minor points compared to the rest of the story. Highly recommend, a very fun read!
August 26, 2024
This is such a refreshing and original take on Cinderella!
This book not only reimagines Cinderella, but also takes the story of King Midas and weaves it seamlessly into the plot.
I really enjoyed how this story played out. Scarlet was such an interesting character. She's a thief, but does so out of necessity, not because stealing brings her joy. She cares for people and will go out of her way to help them, even if it puts her in danger. She really has a heart of gold (get it? That's a pun because this book is also a King Midas reimagining.)
Remme is an interesting character. He comes off rough, mean, callous, and unforgiving. But, as the story develops, so does his character. He starts to look at what is happening in a broader sense, and is interested in figuring out how to make things better.
I love that the relationship between Scarlet and Remme is sweet and slow. They have sparks between them, but they're always skirting around their attraction and pull toward each other, not wanting to oversteps their bounds.
I did have some trouble with the engagement that Scarlet was stuck in. I couldn't understand why she couldn't just tell the king why she was stuck in the engagement. Was she embarrassed? Was she too fiercely independent? I'm not really sure why she didn't just tell him that she was engaged against her will because of her need to save her home and inheritance.
The twist at the end with the betrayal really surprised me! I did not expect *that* person to betray Remme OR Scarlet.
I was on edge through the whole story because I didn't know who to trust. Everyone in the guild felt shady AF, so I was always weary of their actions, despite Scarlet trusting FG so implicitly.
Overall, a good story. You won't get any spice until the very end, but it's about 1.5 chili pepper of spice at the end for a single scene. The story is more about the action, the romance build-up, and characters than it is for steam/spice.
This book not only reimagines Cinderella, but also takes the story of King Midas and weaves it seamlessly into the plot.
I really enjoyed how this story played out. Scarlet was such an interesting character. She's a thief, but does so out of necessity, not because stealing brings her joy. She cares for people and will go out of her way to help them, even if it puts her in danger. She really has a heart of gold (get it? That's a pun because this book is also a King Midas reimagining.)
Remme is an interesting character. He comes off rough, mean, callous, and unforgiving. But, as the story develops, so does his character. He starts to look at what is happening in a broader sense, and is interested in figuring out how to make things better.
I love that the relationship between Scarlet and Remme is sweet and slow. They have sparks between them, but they're always skirting around their attraction and pull toward each other, not wanting to oversteps their bounds.
I did have some trouble with the engagement that Scarlet was stuck in. I couldn't understand why she couldn't just tell the king why she was stuck in the engagement. Was she embarrassed? Was she too fiercely independent? I'm not really sure why she didn't just tell him that she was engaged against her will because of her need to save her home and inheritance.
The twist at the end with the betrayal really surprised me! I did not expect *that* person to betray Remme OR Scarlet.
I was on edge through the whole story because I didn't know who to trust. Everyone in the guild felt shady AF, so I was always weary of their actions, despite Scarlet trusting FG so implicitly.
Overall, a good story. You won't get any spice until the very end, but it's about 1.5 chili pepper of spice at the end for a single scene. The story is more about the action, the romance build-up, and characters than it is for steam/spice.
September 5, 2024
Fantastic fairytale retelling. This was a creative mix of Cinderella and King Midas, merging shadowy criminal guilds, competitive quests, and a hunt for a thief.
Scarlet was brave, bold and resilient and had a heart of gold offering care to those in need, and although she's a thief she has a conscience, and wasn't afraid to stand up for what was right.
The background of the King's curse was intriguing and I liked the added magical elements dotted throughout, including the fairy godmother and magical artifacts.
This is a sweet slow burn with lots of sass, action and drama, and some despicable villains you'll love to hate.
Highly recommend.
🪙 "The enormity of the situation hits me again-this isn't just a game. It's survival"
🪙 "The damage is done, the die irrevocably cast. I am once again bound, my wings clipped before if even tasted true freedom"
🪙 "Your stepmother and I have an understanding. I've always watched you, wanted you, and I always get what I want"
🪙 "Not a chance in all the hells I ever belong to the likes of you, you lecherous worm-ridden pustule"
🪙 "Let me prove myself worthy of your love, for you have long ago won mine"
Scarlet was brave, bold and resilient and had a heart of gold offering care to those in need, and although she's a thief she has a conscience, and wasn't afraid to stand up for what was right.
The background of the King's curse was intriguing and I liked the added magical elements dotted throughout, including the fairy godmother and magical artifacts.
This is a sweet slow burn with lots of sass, action and drama, and some despicable villains you'll love to hate.
Highly recommend.
🪙 "The enormity of the situation hits me again-this isn't just a game. It's survival"
🪙 "The damage is done, the die irrevocably cast. I am once again bound, my wings clipped before if even tasted true freedom"
🪙 "Your stepmother and I have an understanding. I've always watched you, wanted you, and I always get what I want"
🪙 "Not a chance in all the hells I ever belong to the likes of you, you lecherous worm-ridden pustule"
🪙 "Let me prove myself worthy of your love, for you have long ago won mine"
August 26, 2024
I haven’t found a good fairytale retelling until this book, I am obsessed. I think I may have been obsessed from the moment I saw the artwork at the start of the book.
Scarlet, our FMC, was fun, sharp, and a gorgeous character to read. I loved how quick she was and I found myself really caring for her.
I couldn’t put the book down, and I loved when we got past the first act and the new twist was put on to it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for this ARC!
Scarlet, our FMC, was fun, sharp, and a gorgeous character to read. I loved how quick she was and I found myself really caring for her.
I couldn’t put the book down, and I loved when we got past the first act and the new twist was put on to it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you for this ARC!
September 11, 2024
ARC Reader Book Review 🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a great retelling 🙀 My goodness. This “Cinderella” meets “King Midas” hits the mark. From games & trials to witty banter. This was such a fun read. The implementations of things such as the glass slipper, fairy godmother, 12 o’ clock, & the like are woven into the story so well. I’m convinced the whole “Once Upon A Curse” series is 🤌🏽 at this point. Even though it’s a retelling, they’re very uniquely their own!! 🤍
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a great retelling 🙀 My goodness. This “Cinderella” meets “King Midas” hits the mark. From games & trials to witty banter. This was such a fun read. The implementations of things such as the glass slipper, fairy godmother, 12 o’ clock, & the like are woven into the story so well. I’m convinced the whole “Once Upon A Curse” series is 🤌🏽 at this point. Even though it’s a retelling, they’re very uniquely their own!! 🤍
September 17, 2024
An interesting twist on the Cinderella fairytale. The king is waiting for an opportunity to break his curse, and he may have found it, but he never thought it would be at the hands of a thief. Our little thief is working for the fairy godmother's thieves guild, and will stop at nothing to redeem her family's name.
September 10, 2024
Cursed By Gold by Jamie Dalton is the first book in the Once Upon a Curse series. This series is comprised of standalone stories that are all written by different authors. I really liked this retelling. The King Midas twist to Cinderella was fun. I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the other books in this series. The plot was interesting and I really liked the characters.
Scarlett was a witty, fun, and badass FMC. I really liked her! Remme was so sweet and I loved his character. Scarlett and Remme had good chemistry and I loved watching their relationship progress. The tournament aspect to the plot kept things interesting. This book has dual POV which I really enjoyed. If you like soft enemies to lovers, tournament, fairytale retelling romance then you should give this book a read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
HAPPY READING
Scarlett was a witty, fun, and badass FMC. I really liked her! Remme was so sweet and I loved his character. Scarlett and Remme had good chemistry and I loved watching their relationship progress. The tournament aspect to the plot kept things interesting. This book has dual POV which I really enjoyed. If you like soft enemies to lovers, tournament, fairytale retelling romance then you should give this book a read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
HAPPY READING
March 16, 2025
Cursed By Gold - Jaime Dalton
Thoughts of a Jems @JemsLiteraryLoft
If you love fantasy retellings with trials, Greek mythology undertones, and high-stakes action, Cursed by Gold is the perfect read! This book had everything I absolutely adore-elements from classic fairytales and Greek mythology, blended into a unique story that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. Book one in the Once Upon a Curse series.
Absolutely ate this Cinderella-inspired tale with magical twist and Gold. Scarlett, the FMC, is a thief working under the Fairy Godmother’s Guild. She determined to save her family home, which has been squandered by her evil stepmother and stepsisters. Her rags-to-riches journey comes with dangerous challenges, as she sets out to steal the Bodian Crown from King Remme—a ruler cursed to turn everything he touches into gold. However, when Remme discovers that Scarlett is immune to his curse, everything changes.
The trials are where the story really shines. They had Hunger Games vibes—filled with tests of skill, leadership, and compassion—designed to help King Remme find the person worthy of the crown or should is say immune to his touch. Scarlett is still a mystery woman that came in the night to steal the crown, her identity is a unknow to King Remme. He arranged these kings’ trials to try to weed her out. He is eager to confirm the identity of the thief with the ability to withstand his touch. At the trials Scarlett put on a great show. Scarlett’s knives skills and her knowledge of horticulture were on full display, showcasing her resourcefulness and heart of gold. The competitor and trials were fierce. Rose, a fellow guild member, was sent to increase their odds of winning the crown, you know some backup. Will either of them hold the true key to ending the king's curse?
Jaime Dalton’s storytelling is immersive, with vivid descriptions of the trials and nuanced character development. The chemistry between Scarlett and Remme builds slowly but deeply, making their relationship feel authentic and emotionally rewarding. The tension between their conflicting goals—Scarlett wanting to steal the crown to save her home and Remme seeking to know the identity of the thief to aid with his curse—keeps the plot engaging until the very end.
I loved how the story explored themes of greed, redemption, and second chances. Scarlett’s journey isn’t just about winning the trials—it’s about discovering her worth beyond what others see and finding unexpected love along the way. The twist at the end, where the true power to break the curse becomes clear, was the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable story.
If you enjoy fairytale retellings with heart, high-stakes challenges, and slow-burn romance, Cursed by Gold will take you on an exciting and emotional adventure. I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy romance with a touch of myth and magic!
Get your copy today on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Cursed-Gold-Ci... Run Do Not Walk No Joke!
@JemsLiteraryLoft – All Socials for more reviews
*Thank you to the Author Jaime Dalton for the advanced reader copy
Thoughts of a Jems @JemsLiteraryLoft
If you love fantasy retellings with trials, Greek mythology undertones, and high-stakes action, Cursed by Gold is the perfect read! This book had everything I absolutely adore-elements from classic fairytales and Greek mythology, blended into a unique story that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. Book one in the Once Upon a Curse series.
Absolutely ate this Cinderella-inspired tale with magical twist and Gold. Scarlett, the FMC, is a thief working under the Fairy Godmother’s Guild. She determined to save her family home, which has been squandered by her evil stepmother and stepsisters. Her rags-to-riches journey comes with dangerous challenges, as she sets out to steal the Bodian Crown from King Remme—a ruler cursed to turn everything he touches into gold. However, when Remme discovers that Scarlett is immune to his curse, everything changes.
The trials are where the story really shines. They had Hunger Games vibes—filled with tests of skill, leadership, and compassion—designed to help King Remme find the person worthy of the crown or should is say immune to his touch. Scarlett is still a mystery woman that came in the night to steal the crown, her identity is a unknow to King Remme. He arranged these kings’ trials to try to weed her out. He is eager to confirm the identity of the thief with the ability to withstand his touch. At the trials Scarlett put on a great show. Scarlett’s knives skills and her knowledge of horticulture were on full display, showcasing her resourcefulness and heart of gold. The competitor and trials were fierce. Rose, a fellow guild member, was sent to increase their odds of winning the crown, you know some backup. Will either of them hold the true key to ending the king's curse?
Jaime Dalton’s storytelling is immersive, with vivid descriptions of the trials and nuanced character development. The chemistry between Scarlett and Remme builds slowly but deeply, making their relationship feel authentic and emotionally rewarding. The tension between their conflicting goals—Scarlett wanting to steal the crown to save her home and Remme seeking to know the identity of the thief to aid with his curse—keeps the plot engaging until the very end.
I loved how the story explored themes of greed, redemption, and second chances. Scarlett’s journey isn’t just about winning the trials—it’s about discovering her worth beyond what others see and finding unexpected love along the way. The twist at the end, where the true power to break the curse becomes clear, was the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable story.
If you enjoy fairytale retellings with heart, high-stakes challenges, and slow-burn romance, Cursed by Gold will take you on an exciting and emotional adventure. I absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy romance with a touch of myth and magic!
Get your copy today on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Cursed-Gold-Ci... Run Do Not Walk No Joke!
@JemsLiteraryLoft – All Socials for more reviews
*Thank you to the Author Jaime Dalton for the advanced reader copy
September 27, 2024
haven’t found a good fairytale retelling in a while but this book I am obsessed. I think I may have been obsessed from the moment I saw the artwork 😜
I love Jamie's books, before yesterday my favourite was How to be a good villain , such a fun time. But Holly he’ll did this book break me in all the best ways!
I was so privileged to receive advanced reader copy of this book and let me tell you this is my top 5 Fav of the year!
You have Cinderella meets King Midas with a sprinkle of the Hunger Games, it’s a book you cannot put down. I love a good retelling and this is probably the best I’ve read!
You are introduced to our Cinderella story with a game of Never have I ever to get to know her and her friends in a quick and light chapter. Scarlett is a girl who is just trying to keep her family home apart as her awful stepmother squanders her late father's money.
And our king Midas character Remme, was just scrumptious and made me wanna cry, he was a stupid kid who just wanted to help his people.
Jamie daltons characters are phenomenal !! I fell in love with them all!! And in my opinion, she has some of the most fun writing. I’ve read in a long time. I’ve enjoyed every book. I’ve read from her and she is an auto by author for me. You will not regret checking the story out. It is a really fun read that will have you completely obsessed in no time!!!
I love Jamie's books, before yesterday my favourite was How to be a good villain , such a fun time. But Holly he’ll did this book break me in all the best ways!
I was so privileged to receive advanced reader copy of this book and let me tell you this is my top 5 Fav of the year!
You have Cinderella meets King Midas with a sprinkle of the Hunger Games, it’s a book you cannot put down. I love a good retelling and this is probably the best I’ve read!
You are introduced to our Cinderella story with a game of Never have I ever to get to know her and her friends in a quick and light chapter. Scarlett is a girl who is just trying to keep her family home apart as her awful stepmother squanders her late father's money.
And our king Midas character Remme, was just scrumptious and made me wanna cry, he was a stupid kid who just wanted to help his people.
Jamie daltons characters are phenomenal !! I fell in love with them all!! And in my opinion, she has some of the most fun writing. I’ve read in a long time. I’ve enjoyed every book. I’ve read from her and she is an auto by author for me. You will not regret checking the story out. It is a really fun read that will have you completely obsessed in no time!!!
September 25, 2024
This was a really fun read, I really appreciated her spin on the retelling. This book, in my opinion, is a hunger games meets Aladin vibe with a badass Cinderella and King Midas instead of a Prince Charming. The author did a great job creating characters you can feel invested in with well written, strong female mains.
I did feel like the end was a little rushed. There was not quite the same amount of storytelling as the earlier portion of the book, but that did not take away from the storyline itself.
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read.
I did feel like the end was a little rushed. There was not quite the same amount of storytelling as the earlier portion of the book, but that did not take away from the storyline itself.
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read.
September 5, 2024
(2,5 ☆)
Scarlet is at risk of losing her home because of her stepmother's and stepsisters' spendings. On top of that her stepmother wants to marry her off shortly. When Scarlet gets an offer from Fairy Godmother to steal the Bodian crown she sees an opportunity to save both herself and her home.
Remme lives under a curse; everything he touches turns to gold. When a thief tries to steal the Bodian crown, the one thing that could break his curse, and the thief doesn't turn when they make contact, everything changes. He just have to figure out who she is.
This is a mashup retelling of Cinderella and King Midas and I really love the premise! I also like Scarlet and Remme, and that we get dual POV's. This could easily have been a five star read, but unfortunatly the execution isn't as good as the idea. Some parts are repeated several times (sometimes even with the exact phrasing), while other things don't get explained enough. Some scenes I have a hard time seeing (especially the action scenes) as I feel the author doesn't succeed in relaying what she sees. The dialogues are often good, though. There's some obvious mistakes, like when Scarlet sips her wine after just having drained the glass minutes before (no mention of a refill), or when she gets help removing her bandages, and a couple of pages later the blood is seeping through those same bandages. This might not disturb everyone - some might not even notice it - but it bothers me.
Since this is an ARC I accept some spelling errors, double or missing words and such (it's not the final copy and is mostly corrected before the book releases), but I'm surprised by the amount of missing dots. I'm also quite surprised by Dalton's use of "difficult" words. I consider myself to have a good understanding in English, even though it's not my native language, but I had to stop several times to ponder over words I wasn't sure about. It felt like the author wanted to compensate the lack of other things by picking finer words. And what actually happened to the infamous crown (which is refered to as a necklace in the description, by the way)? Who was the client who wanted the crown and was willing to pay a lot of money for it?
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
Scarlet is at risk of losing her home because of her stepmother's and stepsisters' spendings. On top of that her stepmother wants to marry her off shortly. When Scarlet gets an offer from Fairy Godmother to steal the Bodian crown she sees an opportunity to save both herself and her home.
Remme lives under a curse; everything he touches turns to gold. When a thief tries to steal the Bodian crown, the one thing that could break his curse, and the thief doesn't turn when they make contact, everything changes. He just have to figure out who she is.
This is a mashup retelling of Cinderella and King Midas and I really love the premise! I also like Scarlet and Remme, and that we get dual POV's. This could easily have been a five star read, but unfortunatly the execution isn't as good as the idea. Some parts are repeated several times (sometimes even with the exact phrasing), while other things don't get explained enough. Some scenes I have a hard time seeing (especially the action scenes) as I feel the author doesn't succeed in relaying what she sees. The dialogues are often good, though. There's some obvious mistakes, like when Scarlet sips her wine after just having drained the glass minutes before (no mention of a refill), or when she gets help removing her bandages, and a couple of pages later the blood is seeping through those same bandages. This might not disturb everyone - some might not even notice it - but it bothers me.
Since this is an ARC I accept some spelling errors, double or missing words and such (it's not the final copy and is mostly corrected before the book releases), but I'm surprised by the amount of missing dots. I'm also quite surprised by Dalton's use of "difficult" words. I consider myself to have a good understanding in English, even though it's not my native language, but I had to stop several times to ponder over words I wasn't sure about. It felt like the author wanted to compensate the lack of other things by picking finer words. And what actually happened to the infamous crown (which is refered to as a necklace in the description, by the way)? Who was the client who wanted the crown and was willing to pay a lot of money for it?
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
January 14, 2025
Super repetitive to the point where I was beyond annoyed. How many times are we going to be told that she's trying to save her family's home but the evil stepmom and stepsisters are tossing money aside? Or that he can't touch anything because it will turn to gold? Ugh.
The characters fell flat as did this story.
The characters fell flat as did this story.
September 5, 2024
In the realm of fantasy, I really enjoy mixing up some of my more serious and angst-filled reads with standalone stories that deliver plenty of fun, sweetness and quick action. If you are looking for any and all of that combined with some nods to classic fairy tale stories, then you should definitely pick up one of Jamie Dalton's reads.
I had the chance to read her latest book, Cursed by Gold, and flew threw this fast paced tale in two days! Admittedly, the characters in this story do have a bit more complex and heavy emotions and back stories than some of her other novels, but Dalton does a really nice job of weaving in really organic bursts of humor, flirty banter and little tender moments that just make you smile.
In Cursed by Gold, Dalton creates a fairy tale mashup between the legend of King Midas and the tried and true tale of Cinderella. Except in this story, Cinderella, or Scarlet in this case, is a knife wielding, punch throwing and heist running assassin and thief, who runs with a covert gang of other mysterious operatives in a guild run by none other than the Fairy Godmother! Scarlet and the rest of the crew, are causing a lot of problems for the kingdom's mysterious and aloof young king, Remme, who seems to have an obsession for flaunting his love of gold for all to see.
Unbeknownst to his people, Remme has been suffering under the cruel effects of a curse that give him a deadly golden touch. It has made him cautious and wary of others. It was really painful to see how Remme has emotionally walled himself away from all those around him. He has but one hope and that is to find the one person who can help him balance his power. Remme is completely shocked that this person comes in the shape of a beautiful but sneaky thief that attempts to rob his coronation crown right from underneath him.
Dalton then throws us into an almost Hunger Games style magical competition as Remme works to discover the secret identify of this thief and simultaneously crush the gang of thieves that is plaguing his rule. For Scarlet, the competition is the price for a chance at true freedom. Of course, tensions run high as Remme and Scarlet fight their growing attraction to each other, each fearing that the other will discover their deepest secrets and find them too dark and too monstrous.
I loved that despite having a family situation that threatens her happiness, yes Dalton still give Scarlet a terrible stepmother and wicked stepsister, Scarlet has an indomitable spirit, a really grounded sense of values and a fierce streak to protect those she cares about! Remme is a wonderful balance of dark and dangerous with just the right amount of emotional vulnerability. In each other, the pair discovers that perhaps just maybe there is hope that they can find someone who truly sees and accepts all of who they really are. Of course, betrayals and unexpected revelations could very well mean that this Cinderella just may not get her Prince Charming. You will just have to read to find out!
If you want a fun fairy tale that gives you an entertaining twist on the classic with characters you will cheer for and tons of feisty banter, then definitely pick up Dalton's newest book.
I had the chance to read her latest book, Cursed by Gold, and flew threw this fast paced tale in two days! Admittedly, the characters in this story do have a bit more complex and heavy emotions and back stories than some of her other novels, but Dalton does a really nice job of weaving in really organic bursts of humor, flirty banter and little tender moments that just make you smile.
In Cursed by Gold, Dalton creates a fairy tale mashup between the legend of King Midas and the tried and true tale of Cinderella. Except in this story, Cinderella, or Scarlet in this case, is a knife wielding, punch throwing and heist running assassin and thief, who runs with a covert gang of other mysterious operatives in a guild run by none other than the Fairy Godmother! Scarlet and the rest of the crew, are causing a lot of problems for the kingdom's mysterious and aloof young king, Remme, who seems to have an obsession for flaunting his love of gold for all to see.
Unbeknownst to his people, Remme has been suffering under the cruel effects of a curse that give him a deadly golden touch. It has made him cautious and wary of others. It was really painful to see how Remme has emotionally walled himself away from all those around him. He has but one hope and that is to find the one person who can help him balance his power. Remme is completely shocked that this person comes in the shape of a beautiful but sneaky thief that attempts to rob his coronation crown right from underneath him.
Dalton then throws us into an almost Hunger Games style magical competition as Remme works to discover the secret identify of this thief and simultaneously crush the gang of thieves that is plaguing his rule. For Scarlet, the competition is the price for a chance at true freedom. Of course, tensions run high as Remme and Scarlet fight their growing attraction to each other, each fearing that the other will discover their deepest secrets and find them too dark and too monstrous.
I loved that despite having a family situation that threatens her happiness, yes Dalton still give Scarlet a terrible stepmother and wicked stepsister, Scarlet has an indomitable spirit, a really grounded sense of values and a fierce streak to protect those she cares about! Remme is a wonderful balance of dark and dangerous with just the right amount of emotional vulnerability. In each other, the pair discovers that perhaps just maybe there is hope that they can find someone who truly sees and accepts all of who they really are. Of course, betrayals and unexpected revelations could very well mean that this Cinderella just may not get her Prince Charming. You will just have to read to find out!
If you want a fun fairy tale that gives you an entertaining twist on the classic with characters you will cheer for and tons of feisty banter, then definitely pick up Dalton's newest book.
September 1, 2024
**Book Review: *Cursed by Gold***
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
*Cursed by Gold* presents an intriguing premise, weaving a tale of magic, love, and betrayal that draws readers into its world. However, while the foundation of the story is strong, the execution leaves a bit to be desired.
One of the novel's key issues is its attempt at a slow-burn romance, which unfortunately fizzles out rather than igniting any real tension. The buildup lacks the intensity or spark needed to fully engage the reader, making the supposed romantic tension feel more like a lukewarm simmer than the slow-burning blaze it aimed to be.
Additionally, some parts of the book felt redundant and overly drawn out. There are moments where the narrative seems to circle back on itself, reiterating points that had already been established. This repetition bogs down the pacing, making sections of the story feel longer than necessary.
The author’s love for language is evident, but at times, it feels like they enjoyed the thesaurus a bit too much. While varied vocabulary can enrich a story, in this case, it occasionally comes across as forced, disrupting the flow rather than enhancing it.
Scarlett, the main character, initially comes across as a strong and determined protagonist, someone you'd expect to take charge of her destiny. However, her sudden transformation into a passive, almost timid character in the face of her forced fiancé is jarring. This shift in her demeanor undermines the strong-willed persona the reader is introduced to at the beginning, creating a disconnect in her character arc.
Despite these flaws, *Cursed by Gold* does shine in some areas. The premise is compelling, and there are moments of genuine tension and intrigue that remind you of the story's potential. With a bit more focus on pacing and character consistency, this book could have truly soared.
In summary, while *Cursed by Gold* offers an interesting story, it stumbles in its delivery. Fans of the genre may still find it worth a read, but be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
*Cursed by Gold* presents an intriguing premise, weaving a tale of magic, love, and betrayal that draws readers into its world. However, while the foundation of the story is strong, the execution leaves a bit to be desired.
One of the novel's key issues is its attempt at a slow-burn romance, which unfortunately fizzles out rather than igniting any real tension. The buildup lacks the intensity or spark needed to fully engage the reader, making the supposed romantic tension feel more like a lukewarm simmer than the slow-burning blaze it aimed to be.
Additionally, some parts of the book felt redundant and overly drawn out. There are moments where the narrative seems to circle back on itself, reiterating points that had already been established. This repetition bogs down the pacing, making sections of the story feel longer than necessary.
The author’s love for language is evident, but at times, it feels like they enjoyed the thesaurus a bit too much. While varied vocabulary can enrich a story, in this case, it occasionally comes across as forced, disrupting the flow rather than enhancing it.
Scarlett, the main character, initially comes across as a strong and determined protagonist, someone you'd expect to take charge of her destiny. However, her sudden transformation into a passive, almost timid character in the face of her forced fiancé is jarring. This shift in her demeanor undermines the strong-willed persona the reader is introduced to at the beginning, creating a disconnect in her character arc.
Despite these flaws, *Cursed by Gold* does shine in some areas. The premise is compelling, and there are moments of genuine tension and intrigue that remind you of the story's potential. With a bit more focus on pacing and character consistency, this book could have truly soared.
In summary, while *Cursed by Gold* offers an interesting story, it stumbles in its delivery. Fans of the genre may still find it worth a read, but be prepared for a few bumps along the way.
September 4, 2024
I allow myself a moment of painful longing. What might it be like to feel the warmth of another without fear of death? To touch and be touched beyond the borders of my gilded cage? I banish the treacherous thoughts almost as quickly as they form. Such foolish fanciful wishes will only bring misery.
Cursed by Gold by Jamie Dalton offers a refreshing spin on familiar fairy tale elements, blending the untouchable curse of King Midas with the darker undertones of a thief’s desperate mission. Scarlet, our Cinderella, is stuck between her family’s financial mess and the demands of a caring, but mysterious, Fairy Godmother. When she tries to steal a necklace and ends up crossing paths with the cursed king, Remme, things get interesting . . .
The story has a lot going for it—a captivating concept, smooth narrative flow, and some thrilling moments, especially when things take a sharp turn at the end. The trials Scarlet faces and Remme’s determination to unmask the thief keep the tension high, and the twist at the end adds a nice punch. However, I took issue with Scarlet’s backstory—her reasons for putting up with her stepfamily’s abuse aren’t fully fleshed out, leaving some of her choices feeling a bit off. Along the same vein, it’s hard to understand why she tolerates a certain character (no spoilers!) when she really doesn’t have to??? I also wish we could have learned a bit more of King Remme’s background and the details of how his curse came to be. That said, the chemistry between the main characters is undeniable, and their interactions are some of the best parts of the book!
An intriguing premise, good pacing, dangerous trials, lovely moments between characters . . . Cursed by Gold is a quick, fun retelling with a twist!
Content warnings include abuse, violence toward women, betrayal, torture, and murder.
Website | Bookstagram | BookTok
Cursed by Gold by Jamie Dalton offers a refreshing spin on familiar fairy tale elements, blending the untouchable curse of King Midas with the darker undertones of a thief’s desperate mission. Scarlet, our Cinderella, is stuck between her family’s financial mess and the demands of a caring, but mysterious, Fairy Godmother. When she tries to steal a necklace and ends up crossing paths with the cursed king, Remme, things get interesting . . .
The story has a lot going for it—a captivating concept, smooth narrative flow, and some thrilling moments, especially when things take a sharp turn at the end. The trials Scarlet faces and Remme’s determination to unmask the thief keep the tension high, and the twist at the end adds a nice punch. However, I took issue with Scarlet’s backstory—her reasons for putting up with her stepfamily’s abuse aren’t fully fleshed out, leaving some of her choices feeling a bit off. Along the same vein, it’s hard to understand why she tolerates a certain character (no spoilers!) when she really doesn’t have to??? I also wish we could have learned a bit more of King Remme’s background and the details of how his curse came to be. That said, the chemistry between the main characters is undeniable, and their interactions are some of the best parts of the book!
An intriguing premise, good pacing, dangerous trials, lovely moments between characters . . . Cursed by Gold is a quick, fun retelling with a twist!
Content warnings include abuse, violence toward women, betrayal, torture, and murder.
Website | Bookstagram | BookTok
November 27, 2024
"Two souls seeking connection among the lonely towers of rule and society."
"This is who I am in truth - uncompromising lethality sheathed in grace, undaunted by kings or circumstance."
🧡Cursed by Gold drew me in by the cover and artwork, but the story truly embodied it all. This book checked all the boxes for me.🧡
✨Not 1 but 2 fairytale retellings (Cinderella/King Midas)
✨Fairy Godmother's Thieves Guild
✨Deathly Trials
✨Different magics
✨Named Chapters
Scarlet (whose father has passed) has to take up thieving to keep up with her Stepmother and stepsisters lavish spending. King Remme is cursed with killing anyone or anything with his touch, by turning it all to gold.
Scarlet is tasked with the objective to steal the kings Bodian crown. Unsuccessful at first, she sees a second chance at the masquerade party held at his palace. While she does lose a slipper (and the second chance at the crown), the king decides to orchestrate a tournament to weed out the alleged thief. There's also a wretched man named Greystone (whom Scarlet's stepmother tries to marry off to in an effort to gain more monetary means) and a blinding betrayal in the midst of everything else.
This was a very well written story. How it unfolds is so rich and enchanting. My favorite chapter was The Hourglass. Jamie also includes a recipe of the scones Scarlet quite enjoyed as well. ⏳
"This is who I am in truth - uncompromising lethality sheathed in grace, undaunted by kings or circumstance."
🧡Cursed by Gold drew me in by the cover and artwork, but the story truly embodied it all. This book checked all the boxes for me.🧡
✨Not 1 but 2 fairytale retellings (Cinderella/King Midas)
✨Fairy Godmother's Thieves Guild
✨Deathly Trials
✨Different magics
✨Named Chapters
Scarlet (whose father has passed) has to take up thieving to keep up with her Stepmother and stepsisters lavish spending. King Remme is cursed with killing anyone or anything with his touch, by turning it all to gold.
Scarlet is tasked with the objective to steal the kings Bodian crown. Unsuccessful at first, she sees a second chance at the masquerade party held at his palace. While she does lose a slipper (and the second chance at the crown), the king decides to orchestrate a tournament to weed out the alleged thief. There's also a wretched man named Greystone (whom Scarlet's stepmother tries to marry off to in an effort to gain more monetary means) and a blinding betrayal in the midst of everything else.
This was a very well written story. How it unfolds is so rich and enchanting. My favorite chapter was The Hourglass. Jamie also includes a recipe of the scones Scarlet quite enjoyed as well. ⏳
September 16, 2024
This book offers a compelling blend of familiar elements from *Cinderella*, *The Hunger Games*, and a hint of *Throne of Glass*, which initially drew me in. It masterfully connects a nostalgic childhood fairy tale with the more complex, action-packed stories I love today.
At first, I was hesitant. The writing style wasn’t what I typically gravitate toward, and it took me some time to fully immerse myself in the story. However, once the unique concept of the gild and Remme’s curse became clear, I was hooked.
While the trials were an exciting aspect of the plot, I felt they were a bit underdeveloped. I would have loved more detailed descriptions, but I can understand the limitations given the book's length. The ending, while sweet, felt somewhat rushed after all the characters had endured.
In terms of spice, it’s important to note that there’s minimal of it, with only a brief scene towards the end. Overall, I’d rate the book 4/5 stars, with the spice aspect earning 1/5.
I had the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and while it has its flaws, it’s still a captivating read for fans of fantasy with a blend of classic and contemporary influences.
At first, I was hesitant. The writing style wasn’t what I typically gravitate toward, and it took me some time to fully immerse myself in the story. However, once the unique concept of the gild and Remme’s curse became clear, I was hooked.
While the trials were an exciting aspect of the plot, I felt they were a bit underdeveloped. I would have loved more detailed descriptions, but I can understand the limitations given the book's length. The ending, while sweet, felt somewhat rushed after all the characters had endured.
In terms of spice, it’s important to note that there’s minimal of it, with only a brief scene towards the end. Overall, I’d rate the book 4/5 stars, with the spice aspect earning 1/5.
I had the opportunity to read this book as an ARC, and while it has its flaws, it’s still a captivating read for fans of fantasy with a blend of classic and contemporary influences.
September 11, 2024
This has got to be one of the funnest, most engulfing books I have ever read and you would be crazy not to read it!!!!! Cursed by Gold is an amazing retelling of Cinderella meets King Midas thrown in with comedy/Hunger games!!!! I have never read a story.like this before and I seriously read it in 2 days.
Our Cinderella in this story is Scarlet. Her father has died and now she lives there with her evil step mother and her two daughters. As they squander away her inheritance, Scar is doing everything in her power to keep her father's home out of the debt collector's hands. So what does she do? Join Fairy Godmothers thieves guild of course!
Now over at the castle is poor King Remme. When he became king years ago, he was granted a wish. And we all know wish granters love to make things interesting!!! So now the kind turns everything and everyone he touches to gold. He hasn't been touched or touched anyone, even for a hug, in decades.
So back to Scarlet, Fairy Godmother offers he a job of a lifetime! This would set her up for a year or more worth of care for the manor. The only catch is.... She has to steal the royal crown from the castle. Scarlet accepts the job, but she knows this will be the most difficult one she has ever done!
Under the dark of night, Scarlet sneaks into the castle and works her way up to a solid golden door. Entering, she discovers a room covered in gold. Even the bed is made of gold. Shaking her head, Scarlet starts her search for the crown. And she finds it.
Ready to run she turns around to see a tall gorgeous man with gold tattoos standing before he naked.... Oh so naked. words are exchanged, funny things occur, (gotta read the story to find out, but you will be rolling), Scarlet GRABS King Remme, knocks him over, and runs!!
Yes! You heard it here first folks! Scarlet touched King Remme and ran! She did not turn to GOLD! So obviously the king is now obsessed and the daring adventure begins!!
There is no rating high enough for this story! Jamie Dalton has created a better story than Disney!! I would watch this movie a hundred times over. I pray to God a company picks up this book to make a movie because it would be the biggest hit in Romcom/Adventure since Ever After and Frozen!
Get your pre-Order today on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Cursed-Gold-Ci... like no joke Folks
BEST STORY EVERY!!!!!
Our Cinderella in this story is Scarlet. Her father has died and now she lives there with her evil step mother and her two daughters. As they squander away her inheritance, Scar is doing everything in her power to keep her father's home out of the debt collector's hands. So what does she do? Join Fairy Godmothers thieves guild of course!
Now over at the castle is poor King Remme. When he became king years ago, he was granted a wish. And we all know wish granters love to make things interesting!!! So now the kind turns everything and everyone he touches to gold. He hasn't been touched or touched anyone, even for a hug, in decades.
So back to Scarlet, Fairy Godmother offers he a job of a lifetime! This would set her up for a year or more worth of care for the manor. The only catch is.... She has to steal the royal crown from the castle. Scarlet accepts the job, but she knows this will be the most difficult one she has ever done!
Under the dark of night, Scarlet sneaks into the castle and works her way up to a solid golden door. Entering, she discovers a room covered in gold. Even the bed is made of gold. Shaking her head, Scarlet starts her search for the crown. And she finds it.
Ready to run she turns around to see a tall gorgeous man with gold tattoos standing before he naked.... Oh so naked. words are exchanged, funny things occur, (gotta read the story to find out, but you will be rolling), Scarlet GRABS King Remme, knocks him over, and runs!!
Yes! You heard it here first folks! Scarlet touched King Remme and ran! She did not turn to GOLD! So obviously the king is now obsessed and the daring adventure begins!!
There is no rating high enough for this story! Jamie Dalton has created a better story than Disney!! I would watch this movie a hundred times over. I pray to God a company picks up this book to make a movie because it would be the biggest hit in Romcom/Adventure since Ever After and Frozen!
Get your pre-Order today on Amazon! https://www.amazon.com/Cursed-Gold-Ci... like no joke Folks
BEST STORY EVERY!!!!!
September 15, 2024
Espookymadre’s ARC REVIEW 📕
Book rating: 3 / 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level:🌶️ 1/5
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️3 / 5
The author skillfully blended the wellknown tales of Cinderella and King Midas, adding her own unique twist that felt both believable and well-integrated. The clever wordplay, reminiscent of each original story, was sprinkled throughout the book like little sprinkles, adding to the cake. It’s very cutesy, very demure and playful retelling with a fresh twist, a fluffy romcom fairytale.
I loved how fierce Scarlet was as the female lead, but the decision not to tell Remme about the engagement felt like a randomly inserted miscommunication trope. It seemed out of character for someone with her morals and ethics. I did appreciate how her job was portrayed, showing her as skilled but not perfect. The balance between her strengths and weaknesses was very believable.
The chemistry between Remme and Scarlet brings to mind the saying, "to be seen is to be loved." I enjoyed the tension between them without relying on physical intimacy. Well done. I especially devoured the tarot deck scene!🫶🏻
However, I wished they had more one-on-one moments to further explore their attraction. I expected their first touchs to be explosive, but the scene felt more like vanilla spice, which was a bit of a letdown given how fiery and intense both characters are. With all that tension I wanted break her back momentum. Lol
The story does come full circle, but the ending felt somewhat rushed. I wish Remme's journey of learning to control his curse or gift had been more developed, rather than being resolved with a simple suggestion. Some plot points could have been explored in greater depth, as certain elements felt neglected or hurried, while others were drawn out too long. The timing could have been balanced better. The addition of a spicy scene at the end was a nice touch, but it, too, seemed rushed. Overall, though, it was a cute and lighthearted read.
I received this book as an ARC. And all opinions are truthful and are solely mine. Thank you for the opportunity! 🖤
Book rating: 3 / 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Spice level:🌶️ 1/5
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️3 / 5
The author skillfully blended the wellknown tales of Cinderella and King Midas, adding her own unique twist that felt both believable and well-integrated. The clever wordplay, reminiscent of each original story, was sprinkled throughout the book like little sprinkles, adding to the cake. It’s very cutesy, very demure and playful retelling with a fresh twist, a fluffy romcom fairytale.
I loved how fierce Scarlet was as the female lead, but the decision not to tell Remme about the engagement felt like a randomly inserted miscommunication trope. It seemed out of character for someone with her morals and ethics. I did appreciate how her job was portrayed, showing her as skilled but not perfect. The balance between her strengths and weaknesses was very believable.
The chemistry between Remme and Scarlet brings to mind the saying, "to be seen is to be loved." I enjoyed the tension between them without relying on physical intimacy. Well done. I especially devoured the tarot deck scene!🫶🏻
However, I wished they had more one-on-one moments to further explore their attraction. I expected their first touchs to be explosive, but the scene felt more like vanilla spice, which was a bit of a letdown given how fiery and intense both characters are. With all that tension I wanted break her back momentum. Lol
The story does come full circle, but the ending felt somewhat rushed. I wish Remme's journey of learning to control his curse or gift had been more developed, rather than being resolved with a simple suggestion. Some plot points could have been explored in greater depth, as certain elements felt neglected or hurried, while others were drawn out too long. The timing could have been balanced better. The addition of a spicy scene at the end was a nice touch, but it, too, seemed rushed. Overall, though, it was a cute and lighthearted read.
I received this book as an ARC. And all opinions are truthful and are solely mine. Thank you for the opportunity! 🖤
September 5, 2024
So I came across the Once upon a curse series and I fell in love with the covers of the book at first sight. One of the books that appealed to me most was the first book in the series called Cursed by Gold. When I saw the tropes of this book, I knew I had to read this one, but will it meet my expectations?
This book is a Cinderella retelling featuring King Midas. In addition this book is about a thieves gild, stealing the golden crown and it features an exciting tournament. Jamie Dalton really thought everything through in this book. The storyline is magical and fun to read. It really shows the personality of Scarlet en Remme, while featuring a slow burn romance in which he falls first. This book is really easy to read and in my opinion it is a real pageturner. I just couldn't put it down.
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
This book is a Cinderella retelling featuring King Midas. In addition this book is about a thieves gild, stealing the golden crown and it features an exciting tournament. Jamie Dalton really thought everything through in this book. The storyline is magical and fun to read. It really shows the personality of Scarlet en Remme, while featuring a slow burn romance in which he falls first. This book is really easy to read and in my opinion it is a real pageturner. I just couldn't put it down.
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
September 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this twist on Cinderella and Kong Midas. It was a pretty quick read, and the characters were likable. I loved King Remme and Scarlet’s dynamic and how sweet their relationship was, even from the start.
The trials were interesting, though I wish we had a little more explanation on the scoring system because some of the scoring didn’t make a ton of sense, like Rose and Scarlet’s scores after the first trial. The winner also didn’t really make sense to me just based on what we as readers knew about each of the trials. That’s all I want to say about it so I don’t actually spoil anything.
This is definitely a slow burn romance, but I really liked the journey. I’m super excited to read the other standalones in the Once Upon a Curse series now. Thank you Jamie Dalton for the advance copy of Cursed by Gold. All opinions are my own.
The trials were interesting, though I wish we had a little more explanation on the scoring system because some of the scoring didn’t make a ton of sense, like Rose and Scarlet’s scores after the first trial. The winner also didn’t really make sense to me just based on what we as readers knew about each of the trials. That’s all I want to say about it so I don’t actually spoil anything.
This is definitely a slow burn romance, but I really liked the journey. I’m super excited to read the other standalones in the Once Upon a Curse series now. Thank you Jamie Dalton for the advance copy of Cursed by Gold. All opinions are my own.
February 17, 2025
Highlights 📝
• ‘I am no fragile butterfly to be mounted and displayed, but a phoenix rising from the ashes of my circumstances.’ 🐦🔥
• ‘Our moonlit talks and longing looks wove a fantasy of freedom and affection that pierced my guarded heart.’ ❤️
• ‘"But remember, the future is not fixed. It can be reshaped."’ 😌
Rating ⭐️
5.0
Review ✍🏼
Oohh this was such a good Cinderella retelling. The details were all there. The glass slipper, the evil stepmother and sisters, the lovely fairy godmother, and ofcouse the prince. What was different was the storyline. Everything he touches turns into gold, except her. There were trials, there was an enemies to friends friendship, there was a plot, and it was never boring. Loved it!
• ‘I am no fragile butterfly to be mounted and displayed, but a phoenix rising from the ashes of my circumstances.’ 🐦🔥
• ‘Our moonlit talks and longing looks wove a fantasy of freedom and affection that pierced my guarded heart.’ ❤️
• ‘"But remember, the future is not fixed. It can be reshaped."’ 😌
Rating ⭐️
5.0
Review ✍🏼
Oohh this was such a good Cinderella retelling. The details were all there. The glass slipper, the evil stepmother and sisters, the lovely fairy godmother, and ofcouse the prince. What was different was the storyline. Everything he touches turns into gold, except her. There were trials, there was an enemies to friends friendship, there was a plot, and it was never boring. Loved it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
This is like a retelling of Cinderella and King Midas. So it's an interesting take on both the stories. Because their intertwined together and it works! I honestly loved this book so much!!! It was the normal Cinderella book retelling. There trials, betrayal, team work, and so much more. I honestly did not expect what happened at the end with that twist. But man was it good!!!
I honestly did not expect to see how much the relationship between Scarlet and Remme to be so cute!! It's slow burning but not to slow. But the action, the fighting that Scarlet does, man you gotta love the boss lady!! If you love retelling but so much better. Than I would read this book!!
I honestly did not expect to see how much the relationship between Scarlet and Remme to be so cute!! It's slow burning but not to slow. But the action, the fighting that Scarlet does, man you gotta love the boss lady!! If you love retelling but so much better. Than I would read this book!!
September 2, 2024
4⭐️ 🌶️
Dual POV - Cinderella and King Midas retelling
Slow burn 🔥
Trials/tournament
Everything he touches turns to gold…except her. 🩵
Loved the witty banter/flirting and connection between Remme and Scarlet.
A 4 star instead of a 5 because of some repetitiveness and confusion. Overall liked and enjoyed the story. It was something new with a blend of elements of other stories I’ve really liked. I really liked the characters.
I also love that the chapters have unique chapter titles relating to what happens in the chapter rather than just being numbered.
Dual POV - Cinderella and King Midas retelling
Slow burn 🔥
Trials/tournament
Everything he touches turns to gold…except her. 🩵
Loved the witty banter/flirting and connection between Remme and Scarlet.
A 4 star instead of a 5 because of some repetitiveness and confusion. Overall liked and enjoyed the story. It was something new with a blend of elements of other stories I’ve really liked. I really liked the characters.
I also love that the chapters have unique chapter titles relating to what happens in the chapter rather than just being numbered.
September 6, 2024
I love Cinderella retellings that really expand on the characters, especially the Prince. I'd never thought I'd see a Cinderella/King Midas mash up, but this was a super original way to give the MMC a character arc of his own. The Fairy Godmother in this was also super original. I really feel like this could have used even more detail, especially for some of the side characters, to make this book absolutely fantastic, but it was a fun read as is, and I'll definitely be revisiting it in the future.
October 13, 2024
Interesting concept to a story - a mix of Cinderella with a touch of midas! I was a little worried about how it was all going to come together but it really did and it was a really enjoyable story!
I'm not sure what genre this falls into- it'd got elements of fantasy, myths, a little spice, but is essentially a well written, well thought out retelling of a classic
A standalone in a series of standalones (once upon a curse) that I would recommend if you fancy something different!
I'm not sure what genre this falls into- it'd got elements of fantasy, myths, a little spice, but is essentially a well written, well thought out retelling of a classic
A standalone in a series of standalones (once upon a curse) that I would recommend if you fancy something different!
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