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The Curse of the Siren
There is but one lesson humans are slow to learn and quick to forget: the fae lie…
When half-fae Bronwyn is caught fleeing the scene of a robbery, a Crusader arrow finds its mark. But as her roguish partner-in-crime Eoin tends to her wounds, a spark between them replenishes Bronwyn’s magic — revealing her as part-Siren. And quite possibly cursed.
Meanwhile, word is spreading of the two thieves and the illegal magic they left behind them. To escape discovery, Bronwyn and Eoin accept a dangerous yet tempting a wedding heist that leads them into the depths of the fae realm.
But August, the merciless vampire lord of the Selen Court, is used to getting what — and who — he wants.
In a land of deception, seduction and meddling gods, Bronwyn puts her life on the line, only to discover temptation may be her undoing. And time is running out for her to make a choice, before she’s stuck on the wrong side of a looming war.
The Curse of the Siren is a steamy, plot-driven romantasy with magic, political intrigue, and two tempting MMCs.
When half-fae Bronwyn is caught fleeing the scene of a robbery, a Crusader arrow finds its mark. But as her roguish partner-in-crime Eoin tends to her wounds, a spark between them replenishes Bronwyn’s magic — revealing her as part-Siren. And quite possibly cursed.
Meanwhile, word is spreading of the two thieves and the illegal magic they left behind them. To escape discovery, Bronwyn and Eoin accept a dangerous yet tempting a wedding heist that leads them into the depths of the fae realm.
But August, the merciless vampire lord of the Selen Court, is used to getting what — and who — he wants.
In a land of deception, seduction and meddling gods, Bronwyn puts her life on the line, only to discover temptation may be her undoing. And time is running out for her to make a choice, before she’s stuck on the wrong side of a looming war.
The Curse of the Siren is a steamy, plot-driven romantasy with magic, political intrigue, and two tempting MMCs.
476 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
About the author
S. E. Nielsen
2 books109 followersS. E. Nielsen is a romantasy author in NW Indiana who loves all things whimsical, magical, and just a little bit creepy. She adores epic adventure and steamy romance that makes you swoon and lingers long after the last page. While her love of horror does come across on the page, her stories are mostly rooted in classic fantasy and lore with fresh twists, added heat, and empowered women. All of her stories are emotionally driven and graphic, both on the battlefield and in the bedroom.
When she's not writing, you can find her playing board games, or primitive camping with her friends and family. She prefers sunrises to sunsets, and thinks coffee tastes better in a cute cup.
S. E. writes for readers who love plot-driven fantasy romance, strong women who are allowed to be messy, and the angsty men who yearn for them.
When she's not writing, you can find her playing board games, or primitive camping with her friends and family. She prefers sunrises to sunsets, and thinks coffee tastes better in a cute cup.
S. E. writes for readers who love plot-driven fantasy romance, strong women who are allowed to be messy, and the angsty men who yearn for them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
January 5, 2025
Thus is a fun and unique fantasy romance. Our half fae heroine is on a burglary gone wrong when a rogue arrow hits her revealing she has Siren powers and also might be cursed.
Her and her partner in crime Eoin take on a dangerous but profitable heist job that leads them straight into the fae realms.
Enter August, the merciless vampire lord who is not used to ever being told no.
This was a fast and compelling read that is highly plot driven with a unique take on sirens. It was fun!
I received an ARC for review
Her and her partner in crime Eoin take on a dangerous but profitable heist job that leads them straight into the fae realms.
Enter August, the merciless vampire lord who is not used to ever being told no.
This was a fast and compelling read that is highly plot driven with a unique take on sirens. It was fun!
I received an ARC for review
November 13, 2025
In The Curse of the Siren, S.E. Nielsen delivers an electrifying plunge into a world where the line between destiny and deception blurs in the most tantalizing of ways. This novel is a dazzling mix of thrill, enchantment, magic, anxiety, and romance sure to captivate fans of fantasy and thrilling adventure alike. Fans of ACOTAR will appreciate S.E. Nielsen’s world-building, magical lore, and the deep relationships between characters.
Our journey begins with childhood friends Bronwyn and Eoin, a steadfast thieving duo. Their newest escapade—a wedding heist of epic proportions—promises both riches and risk. At first, this heist seems like a straightforward opportunity for a quick score. However, their plans quickly spiral out of control, thrusting Bronwyn into an impending war and corruption that she never bargained for. Bronwyn also spirals into a labyrinth of secrets and fae curses when she uncovers her startling heritage: she is a half-siren, a member of a fae race thought to be long extinct.
As Bronwyn delves deeper within herself, she discovers what it means to have siren magic. Every human and fae knows that sirens are cursed. The narrative pulses with tension as Bronwyn grapples with her burgeoning powers, which threaten to consume her as much as they could save her. Bronwyn transforms from a mere thief to a key player in a brewing conflict, bringing a fresh, exciting twist to the fantasy genre.
The world-building in this book is nothing short of masterful. S.E Nielsen crafts a vivid landscape where a vampire lord, August, who rules with ruthlessness, meddling gods toy with mortal destinies, and political corruption festers beneath the surface. Every corner of this world feels alive, filled with complex characters and intricate plots that kept me reading at every turn.
Romantic entanglements add another layer of intrigue. Readers will enjoy every representation of love this book offers. This book has an accurate representation of friendship, romantic, and familial love. Love triangles, unspoken desires, and sexual exploration weave through the plot, complicating Bronwyn's journey in ways both heart-wrenching and exhilarating. Her emotional turmoil is relatable, drawing readers into her struggle to balance her forbidden love, the demands of her newfound powers, and the looming specter of war.
In the end, Bronwyn's tale is a testament to the power of self-discovery, the strength of love, and the courage required to create one's destiny. The Curse of the Siren is a symphony of suspense and magic that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next novel in the series.
Our journey begins with childhood friends Bronwyn and Eoin, a steadfast thieving duo. Their newest escapade—a wedding heist of epic proportions—promises both riches and risk. At first, this heist seems like a straightforward opportunity for a quick score. However, their plans quickly spiral out of control, thrusting Bronwyn into an impending war and corruption that she never bargained for. Bronwyn also spirals into a labyrinth of secrets and fae curses when she uncovers her startling heritage: she is a half-siren, a member of a fae race thought to be long extinct.
As Bronwyn delves deeper within herself, she discovers what it means to have siren magic. Every human and fae knows that sirens are cursed. The narrative pulses with tension as Bronwyn grapples with her burgeoning powers, which threaten to consume her as much as they could save her. Bronwyn transforms from a mere thief to a key player in a brewing conflict, bringing a fresh, exciting twist to the fantasy genre.
The world-building in this book is nothing short of masterful. S.E Nielsen crafts a vivid landscape where a vampire lord, August, who rules with ruthlessness, meddling gods toy with mortal destinies, and political corruption festers beneath the surface. Every corner of this world feels alive, filled with complex characters and intricate plots that kept me reading at every turn.
Romantic entanglements add another layer of intrigue. Readers will enjoy every representation of love this book offers. This book has an accurate representation of friendship, romantic, and familial love. Love triangles, unspoken desires, and sexual exploration weave through the plot, complicating Bronwyn's journey in ways both heart-wrenching and exhilarating. Her emotional turmoil is relatable, drawing readers into her struggle to balance her forbidden love, the demands of her newfound powers, and the looming specter of war.
In the end, Bronwyn's tale is a testament to the power of self-discovery, the strength of love, and the courage required to create one's destiny. The Curse of the Siren is a symphony of suspense and magic that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next novel in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2024
I liked the characters themselves, and the overall theme of the story was good, but I just wish it was broken down a little better. There was some choppiness to the structure, flow, and pace of the book that made me feel like I was missing key components of the story.
February 25, 2026
I did my reread, as audio and absolutely loved it. Vampires, fae and a siren! A thief, a quest and limited magic. Open door spice with one of two, tempting mmcs. The ending has me itching for book two!
August 30, 2024
From the first page of this book, I knew I was in for a wild ride!
Bronwyn gets injured during a robbery that goes wrong. While her friend, Eoin, helps her recover, something surprising happens — they discover that Bronwyn is also part-Siren.
As word spreads about her forbidden magic, they take on a dangerous job: stealing something valuable from a wedding in the fae realm.
Here, they have to stay one step ahead of August, the powerful and ruthless vampire lord of the Selen Court.
Okay, let’s talk about how this book absolutely blew me away. I mean, from the very first chapter, I was hooked. Half-fae, half-Siren? A roguish partner-in-crime? And a brooding vampire lord who’s way too used to getting his way? Yes, yes, and YES.
This book delivered on all fronts: it was original and fast-paced!
I’m officially a huge fan of the idea of Bronwyn and August!!
I’m already counting down the days until book two. Where is it going to take us?!
If you’re someone who loves a good “will they, won’t they” vibe, then trust me, you need this book on your shelf!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and S.E Nielsen for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Bronwyn gets injured during a robbery that goes wrong. While her friend, Eoin, helps her recover, something surprising happens — they discover that Bronwyn is also part-Siren.
As word spreads about her forbidden magic, they take on a dangerous job: stealing something valuable from a wedding in the fae realm.
Here, they have to stay one step ahead of August, the powerful and ruthless vampire lord of the Selen Court.
Okay, let’s talk about how this book absolutely blew me away. I mean, from the very first chapter, I was hooked. Half-fae, half-Siren? A roguish partner-in-crime? And a brooding vampire lord who’s way too used to getting his way? Yes, yes, and YES.
This book delivered on all fronts: it was original and fast-paced!
I’m officially a huge fan of the idea of Bronwyn and August!!
I’m already counting down the days until book two. Where is it going to take us?!
If you’re someone who loves a good “will they, won’t they” vibe, then trust me, you need this book on your shelf!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and S.E Nielsen for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 30, 2024
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice - 🌶️🌶️/5
Review - What a magical and fantastical world this author brought to life. From the very first page I was fully enveloped into the story line and absolutely couldn't put it down. The action will keep you on the edge of your seat while also trying to put all the pieces of the story together. I found myself many times saying "what is happening?". I thought I could predict what would happen next or who the villains might be and was wrong every time. Those kinds of stories are the best when you don't see it coming.
I'm not usually a fan of love triangles but this author did it magnificently. It didn't feel icky, and you truly do love both of the MMCs. I'm personally leaning towards August because he is still a mystery to me and he's a vampire and if I'm a sucker for one thing it's vampires. Eion is the best friend, the one who is always there for her which I also loved.
I absolutely adored Bronwyn who is our FMC. She is strong, brave, and resilient. Growing up in the human world and discovering that she might be part siren is a shock to her. It was fun to see her grow and navigate through her powers. She really does have a strong character growth through this book.
The plot, world building, and magic system was done perfectly. We do get left on a cliffhanger and I am feral to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam and S.E. Nielsen for allowing me to ARC for this amazing book. I loved it!
Tropes:
↪Morally Grey FMC
↪One Tent
↪Open Door
↪Epic Quest
↪Meddling Gods
↪Limited Magic System
↪Love Triangle
Spice - 🌶️🌶️/5
Review - What a magical and fantastical world this author brought to life. From the very first page I was fully enveloped into the story line and absolutely couldn't put it down. The action will keep you on the edge of your seat while also trying to put all the pieces of the story together. I found myself many times saying "what is happening?". I thought I could predict what would happen next or who the villains might be and was wrong every time. Those kinds of stories are the best when you don't see it coming.
I'm not usually a fan of love triangles but this author did it magnificently. It didn't feel icky, and you truly do love both of the MMCs. I'm personally leaning towards August because he is still a mystery to me and he's a vampire and if I'm a sucker for one thing it's vampires. Eion is the best friend, the one who is always there for her which I also loved.
I absolutely adored Bronwyn who is our FMC. She is strong, brave, and resilient. Growing up in the human world and discovering that she might be part siren is a shock to her. It was fun to see her grow and navigate through her powers. She really does have a strong character growth through this book.
The plot, world building, and magic system was done perfectly. We do get left on a cliffhanger and I am feral to find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to the Nerd Fam and S.E. Nielsen for allowing me to ARC for this amazing book. I loved it!
Tropes:
↪Morally Grey FMC
↪One Tent
↪Open Door
↪Epic Quest
↪Meddling Gods
↪Limited Magic System
↪Love Triangle
October 12, 2024
"You're a wild little thing, aren't you?"
Okay, I'm going to need book 2 ASAP—my god, THAT ENDING? Absolute mayhem. There is so much going on in this story that I don't even know where to start. But all of it—the world-building, the subplots, the relationships, etc.—just sucked 👏 me 👏 in. 👏
A fantastic start to a ✨️high✨️ fantasy/fantasy romance series that I can't wait to continue!
Website | Bookstagram | BookTok
Okay, I'm going to need book 2 ASAP—my god, THAT ENDING? Absolute mayhem. There is so much going on in this story that I don't even know where to start. But all of it—the world-building, the subplots, the relationships, etc.—just sucked 👏 me 👏 in. 👏
A fantastic start to a ✨️high✨️ fantasy/fantasy romance series that I can't wait to continue!
Website | Bookstagram | BookTok
September 24, 2024
From the moment you open this book, you hit the ground running in the story and it doesn’t stop until the very last page. It was very fast paced and jam packed with so much plot, characters, action, adventure, lore, and banter. In this book you get Sirens, Fae, Mages, Vampires, Magical creatures. Everything you could want in a Romantic Fantasy.
I loved the lore in this book, I am obsessed with sirens and the FMC, Bronwyn, being the last of her kind I really enjoyed. I also enjoyed the magic system in here, specifically how Bronwyn recharged her magic and used it. I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, but I did enjoy this one and excited to see where that leads our FMC. The tension and slow burn were really well done as well, and I absolutely love those in a book. The cliffhanger at the end had me stunned.
I did find that at times it was a little too fast paced for me, and all of a sudden we were on to the next part of the plot and I had to go back and make sure I didn’t miss anything. Not a deal breaker for me by any means, just almost wish there was a little more detail with so much going on.
Overall I think this was a great first book in the Forsaken Deities series, and it sets up for a lot to come. I look forward to reading book 2 and getting answers to the cliffhanger and more answers to questions and mysteries that were laid out throughout this book.
Thank you S.E. Nielsen for allowing me to ARC read for you, it was an absolute pleasure.
I loved the lore in this book, I am obsessed with sirens and the FMC, Bronwyn, being the last of her kind I really enjoyed. I also enjoyed the magic system in here, specifically how Bronwyn recharged her magic and used it. I’m not usually a fan of love triangles, but I did enjoy this one and excited to see where that leads our FMC. The tension and slow burn were really well done as well, and I absolutely love those in a book. The cliffhanger at the end had me stunned.
I did find that at times it was a little too fast paced for me, and all of a sudden we were on to the next part of the plot and I had to go back and make sure I didn’t miss anything. Not a deal breaker for me by any means, just almost wish there was a little more detail with so much going on.
Overall I think this was a great first book in the Forsaken Deities series, and it sets up for a lot to come. I look forward to reading book 2 and getting answers to the cliffhanger and more answers to questions and mysteries that were laid out throughout this book.
Thank you S.E. Nielsen for allowing me to ARC read for you, it was an absolute pleasure.
March 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! If you’re looking for a new romantasy with a morally grey FMC 👏👏👏👏👏 then you definitely need to move this up on your TBR! I can’t wait for book 2 because I NEED TO KNOW MORE! This fascinating cast of characters will soon be living rent free in your head.
September 22, 2024
This one is so good. I was instantly sucked in, it took turns I didn’t see coming. It is unique, and original. I really enjoyed it. I did finish this book in one sitting, I stayed up until 4:45am reading it. The beginning of this book moves fast. Fast enough that I had to make sure I was absorbing it all, so I didnt get lost. It was all world building. It was interesting world building too! Once it moves past that, and everything is set? This book takes off. It is so good. One.sitting. I had no respect for any of my responsibilities the next day! 4:45am for goodness sakes! I honestly will be first in line for book 2!
This is an addicting Fantasy Romance you wont want to put down. The romance in this book is a slower burn, with enemies to lovers. The book is spicy. The book is definitely an adult book with spicy themes, language, and descriptive scenes. The book moves at a quicker pace following Bronwyn and her friend Eoin as they accept missions to improve their lives that throw them in the path of several questionable Fae royals with ulterior motives. They dont know who to trust, or if they can get out alive. This book takes you on a fascinating journey filled with romance, angst, lust, betrayal, and lots of action.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is an addicting Fantasy Romance you wont want to put down. The romance in this book is a slower burn, with enemies to lovers. The book is spicy. The book is definitely an adult book with spicy themes, language, and descriptive scenes. The book moves at a quicker pace following Bronwyn and her friend Eoin as they accept missions to improve their lives that throw them in the path of several questionable Fae royals with ulterior motives. They dont know who to trust, or if they can get out alive. This book takes you on a fascinating journey filled with romance, angst, lust, betrayal, and lots of action.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 22, 2024
This was an excellent romantasy that I didn’t want to put down. The author did a great job with the world building and storytelling and I felt completely immersed in the story. I loved all the characters and interactions between them, I especially enjoyed following main character Bronwyn in this fast paced story. There was so much packed into the book making it a complex and enjoyable read.
Read this if you like:
📖 Love triangles
📖 Open door romance
📖 Morally grey FMC
📖 Quests
📖 Limited magic systems
Thank you to @thenerdfam for the gifted copy.
Read this if you like:
📖 Love triangles
📖 Open door romance
📖 Morally grey FMC
📖 Quests
📖 Limited magic systems
Thank you to @thenerdfam for the gifted copy.
August 29, 2024
Such a good story. First a girl who doesn't know what she is. Has a best friend that sticks by her through everything, the love triangle is heart jerking. Finds out what she is and starts to learn about her powers. The characters in this book are amazing. I can't wait for the 2nd book I want more of each character. She still doesn't know the full lengths if her powers and we still don't know everyone else's.
September 28, 2024
Talk about an EPIC journey, what a ride! To say I LOVED this is an understatement! The world Stephanie created is nothing short of amazing. The love triangle was written so well and you’ll honestly route for both men! I’m already anxious for more!
✨
Tropes:
▪️Morally Grey FMC
▪️Epic Quest
▪️Meddling Gods
▪️Love Triangle
▪️Limited Magic System
▪️Open Door
▪️One Tent
✨
Tropes:
▪️Morally Grey FMC
▪️Epic Quest
▪️Meddling Gods
▪️Love Triangle
▪️Limited Magic System
▪️Open Door
▪️One Tent
September 24, 2024
The Curse of the Siren was from the start, a unique and absorbing story. The magic system was amazing, and I absolutely LOVED Bronwyn as a character. There were moments in this book that made me laugh again long after I had finished reading. I liked that I couldn’t really predict the outcome of the story and was really surprised at the end. The characters are all compelling and well rounded, and I ended up loving the side characters as much as our morally grey FMC. I am a Razenna stan for life.
Thank you so much to The Nerd Fam and S.E. Neilson for a gifted copy of this book to read pre-publication.
Thank you so much to The Nerd Fam and S.E. Neilson for a gifted copy of this book to read pre-publication.
October 2, 2024
What an action packed fantasy, wow!
June 7, 2025
like it was fine. i’m annoyed the other books aren’t out cuz ik i won’t read them... feels like a waste of time to have gotten committed to the first.
September 1, 2024
The Curse of the Siren is a unique blend of fae, siren, magic systems, meddling gods & goddesses, adventure and political power players!
Bronwyn, the fmc, is part fae/part siren and a high class thief. She is clever, loyal to the ones she loves and trying to understand the true depths of her powers after hiding her identity in the human realm. After accepting a high stakes heist in fae territory with Eoin, her partner in crime (literally) and best friend, she discovers there is more to her inner darkness than she realizes once in the land of the fae.
She must learn to navigate the boiling tension between her and Eoin, keep a low profile in the midst of power hungry men and calm the shadows lurking deep within her.
And to top it off, enter August into her life, a vampire High Fae Lord known for being the most cruel and wicked of them all. Once he is involved in the greater scheme, there is no denying the pull between them.
The supporting characters are great and add a sweet balance to to the plot especially the secret softie necromancer. Also a huge plus, there is a heavy dose of magical creatures!
I did not see the twist toward the end of the true villain and who was behind the scenes orchestrating the verge of war! I can’t wait for book two to follow Bronwyn's journey and to unlock more character's secrets and intentions.
Catch me at The Snakebeard Tavern drowning my sorrows until book two!
Thank you so much to S.E. Nielsen and Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
Tropes:
Love Triangle
Epic Quest
Magic and Curses
Political Agenda
Fae
Vampires
Creatures
Bronwyn, the fmc, is part fae/part siren and a high class thief. She is clever, loyal to the ones she loves and trying to understand the true depths of her powers after hiding her identity in the human realm. After accepting a high stakes heist in fae territory with Eoin, her partner in crime (literally) and best friend, she discovers there is more to her inner darkness than she realizes once in the land of the fae.
She must learn to navigate the boiling tension between her and Eoin, keep a low profile in the midst of power hungry men and calm the shadows lurking deep within her.
And to top it off, enter August into her life, a vampire High Fae Lord known for being the most cruel and wicked of them all. Once he is involved in the greater scheme, there is no denying the pull between them.
The supporting characters are great and add a sweet balance to to the plot especially the secret softie necromancer. Also a huge plus, there is a heavy dose of magical creatures!
I did not see the twist toward the end of the true villain and who was behind the scenes orchestrating the verge of war! I can’t wait for book two to follow Bronwyn's journey and to unlock more character's secrets and intentions.
Catch me at The Snakebeard Tavern drowning my sorrows until book two!
Thank you so much to S.E. Nielsen and Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC!
Tropes:
Love Triangle
Epic Quest
Magic and Curses
Political Agenda
Fae
Vampires
Creatures
September 29, 2024
3.5 stars
This was good for the most part. It was written well and I liked the main character’s siren powers. This had unique vibes for a fae book, the world was pretty dark and somber. My main issue was that the plot was quite stagnant and boring. I was still interested enough to keep reading, but for whatever reason it just felt like a 400 page prologue. I liked the romance but didn’t love it. I honestly think this will be a great read for other people, but I didn’t connect with it like I wanted to.
This was good for the most part. It was written well and I liked the main character’s siren powers. This had unique vibes for a fae book, the world was pretty dark and somber. My main issue was that the plot was quite stagnant and boring. I was still interested enough to keep reading, but for whatever reason it just felt like a 400 page prologue. I liked the romance but didn’t love it. I honestly think this will be a great read for other people, but I didn’t connect with it like I wanted to.
September 3, 2024
I am still at a loss of words for how amazing this book was to me. The breadcrumbs/foreshadowing had me annotating like a mad woman! The character dialogue had me wanting this as a show or movie to also watch. The twists and turns of the story LITERALLY kept me up at night while reading!
This book is a dark gritty fantasy in a lush world of fae that are separated from humans, along with gods and monsters. Action packed from page ONE! Everything felt so immersive while reading. I learned very early on while reading that Nielsen does not point out details without a reason. EVERYTHING was SO THOUGHT OUT from the beginning.
The magic system was simple to follow but also very detailed and interesting. Watching our main character learn more of her own power was satisfying.
I love a good love triangle that is more passionate than messy. I think the author truly writes a good triangle, in a sense it’s not out of malice.
Overall, GET THIS BOOK! I am so glad this was my first read of September! Definitely starting off SUPER strong! I am desperate to continue this series!
This book is a dark gritty fantasy in a lush world of fae that are separated from humans, along with gods and monsters. Action packed from page ONE! Everything felt so immersive while reading. I learned very early on while reading that Nielsen does not point out details without a reason. EVERYTHING was SO THOUGHT OUT from the beginning.
The magic system was simple to follow but also very detailed and interesting. Watching our main character learn more of her own power was satisfying.
I love a good love triangle that is more passionate than messy. I think the author truly writes a good triangle, in a sense it’s not out of malice.
Overall, GET THIS BOOK! I am so glad this was my first read of September! Definitely starting off SUPER strong! I am desperate to continue this series!
September 29, 2024
What an absolutely captivating fantasy debut from S.E. Nielsen! The story captures your attention immediately and never lets it go. It is fast-paced while also detailed and intriguing. The world building is vibrant and intricate. Bronwyn is a strong and capable FMC who embarks on a very integral journey of learning one’s self worth. I am not usually one for a story with multiple potential love interests vying for the FMC but this is very well done and the context makes complete sense - she is a siren. I am very excited to see where the next book in this series takes the characters.
Highlights:
✨Strong Thieving Siren FMC
✨Love Triangle
✨Vibrant World Building
✨Fae x Humans
✨Heists
Favorite Quote: “You’re like a hot knife in this world, cutting your path and leaving a trail of destruction in your wake. I don’t want to stand in your way while you discover who you are. I want you to experience life and come to me when you’re ready.”
Thank you to the author and Nerd Fam for this advanced copy. My opinions are my own.
Highlights:
✨Strong Thieving Siren FMC
✨Love Triangle
✨Vibrant World Building
✨Fae x Humans
✨Heists
Favorite Quote: “You’re like a hot knife in this world, cutting your path and leaving a trail of destruction in your wake. I don’t want to stand in your way while you discover who you are. I want you to experience life and come to me when you’re ready.”
Thank you to the author and Nerd Fam for this advanced copy. My opinions are my own.
August 29, 2024
OMG!!! This book grabs onto you from page one and does NOT let go. My heart was literally beating out of my chest and my hands were shaking at several parts. This debut novel by this author has NAILED IT on so many things. There’s no copycat stories here; it is in a category all its own. The spice is oh so nice, the characters will forever live in your mind. I challenge you to read this book. You will thank me.
August 31, 2024
Wow, can I just say I LOVED THIS BOOK.
I literally was hooked from Chapter 1 and DID NOT WANT TO PUT IT DOWN.
First of all, Bronwyn is such a refreshing FMC- who is all half fae AND half Siren? How cool is that!
I was a bit nervous because I haven’t read a lot of epic fantasy but this book had just the right amount of world building and fast paced action.
The slow burn romance was everything and when the spice hit, it hit 😉
August is my new book boyfriend.
Thank you so much for writing this book and I can’t wait for more!
I literally was hooked from Chapter 1 and DID NOT WANT TO PUT IT DOWN.
First of all, Bronwyn is such a refreshing FMC- who is all half fae AND half Siren? How cool is that!
I was a bit nervous because I haven’t read a lot of epic fantasy but this book had just the right amount of world building and fast paced action.
The slow burn romance was everything and when the spice hit, it hit 😉
August is my new book boyfriend.
Thank you so much for writing this book and I can’t wait for more!
October 2, 2024
I didn’t love it and felt like there was just too much going on. Lots of great ideas not really meshing together. It does have some cool world building/magic system stuff but don’t expect actual sirens. Not a mermaid shaped person in sight. There are some love triangle- which boy should I pick- vibes (and spicy scenes).
I received an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2025
4.25 - I really enjoyed the pacing and how this story unfolded. So much happened that kept me entertained and up way past my bedtime. I’m looking forward to seeing how this series continues.
October 10, 2024
arc review 📖
the curse of the siren by s.e. nielsen
overall 3⭐️
i loved the concept of this story. for as many fantasies as i read, i surprisingly don’t come across a lot of sirens and this book has a unique take on them which i really enjoyed.
the story moves quickly and there’s a nice amount of world building and lore to support it.
the mc’s are morally grey and easy to like - we love a good thief and heist after all. plus who doesn’t love to read about a moody vampire? the side characters were just as interesting and rounded out the cast really well.
while i found the story to be engaging, there were a few things which pulled me out at times. i feel like occasionally we lost track of characters during major events. i would expect them to show up during or at least shortly after to debrief because they were supposedly around, but then aren’t at all involved. there were also surprisingly no consequences for something major happening which i feel conflicted with the world building.
despite the above, i think the magic and the monsters and the politics of this world are such high points. there’s a good plot twist too which i did not see coming and a cliff hanger ending which makes you want to grab the second book immediately. overall, this is a fun read and i want to see where it’s going!
thank you so much to @thenerdfam and @senielsen.writer for the arc 💌
the curse of the siren by s.e. nielsen
overall 3⭐️
i loved the concept of this story. for as many fantasies as i read, i surprisingly don’t come across a lot of sirens and this book has a unique take on them which i really enjoyed.
the story moves quickly and there’s a nice amount of world building and lore to support it.
the mc’s are morally grey and easy to like - we love a good thief and heist after all. plus who doesn’t love to read about a moody vampire? the side characters were just as interesting and rounded out the cast really well.
while i found the story to be engaging, there were a few things which pulled me out at times. i feel like occasionally we lost track of characters during major events. i would expect them to show up during or at least shortly after to debrief because they were supposedly around, but then aren’t at all involved. there were also surprisingly no consequences for something major happening which i feel conflicted with the world building.
despite the above, i think the magic and the monsters and the politics of this world are such high points. there’s a good plot twist too which i did not see coming and a cliff hanger ending which makes you want to grab the second book immediately. overall, this is a fun read and i want to see where it’s going!
thank you so much to @thenerdfam and @senielsen.writer for the arc 💌
September 2, 2024
I loved this book.
This books follows Bronwyn who is half fire half fae, but hasn’t told anyone because Siren are supposed to extinct and dangerous, so she fears for her life.
Bronwyn and her best friend Eoin are approached with a too good to say no offer to enter the faerie realm and stop a wedding, all while stealing magic artifacts.
Honestly, I loved Eoin and Bronwyn’s friendship, their banter, and how much they loved each other and wanted to keep each other was so sweet.
We meet a few other potential love interests, there are vampires and high lords, accidental bonding, and a few spicy scenes.
This book also had me laughing out loud at a few scenes, our siren gets herself into some sticky situations.
There was really only one thing that I didn’t like, (not enough to bring down a star rating, and could be a a me thing, but worth mentioning to anyone who has issues with animal deaths.) There were a few scenes where horses were killed by a monster, and it happened more than once.
This books follows Bronwyn who is half fire half fae, but hasn’t told anyone because Siren are supposed to extinct and dangerous, so she fears for her life.
Bronwyn and her best friend Eoin are approached with a too good to say no offer to enter the faerie realm and stop a wedding, all while stealing magic artifacts.
Honestly, I loved Eoin and Bronwyn’s friendship, their banter, and how much they loved each other and wanted to keep each other was so sweet.
We meet a few other potential love interests, there are vampires and high lords, accidental bonding, and a few spicy scenes.
This book also had me laughing out loud at a few scenes, our siren gets herself into some sticky situations.
There was really only one thing that I didn’t like, (not enough to bring down a star rating, and could be a a me thing, but worth mentioning to anyone who has issues with animal deaths.) There were a few scenes where horses were killed by a monster, and it happened more than once.
October 12, 2024
DNF @ 30%. There is no flow to the writing and the characters are incredibly hard to connect with.
October 8, 2024
The Curse of the Siren
BOOK I | FORSAKEN DEITIES
A breathtaking debut, S.E. Nielsen's The Curse of the Siren is an intensely enthralling tale that cracks open the door to a bold fantasy where ancient magic intermingles with precarious curses and godly figures manipulate the fates of all those caught in their tangled webs of deceit and desire. Blazing with cutting betrayals, dizzying bargains, tantalizing bonds and richly-layered mysteries, this series opener steals one's attention from its initial sequence and keeps it locked in these pages till its jaw-dropping finale. With an enchanting heroine at the heart of his tale, this astonishing quest to discovery and riches will ultimately test the timeless theory of whether great risks elicit worthy rewards.
Commencing on a tense note, this narrative opens with Eoin & Bronwyn, a thieving pair of childhood best friends with forbidden magical assets who have sustained a humble life through the art of stolen acquisitions. With their most recent take unearthing Bronwyn's rare magical nature, her dual siren and fae heritage add a risky layer to their already complex state of survival. With their sights set on a free and honest future, a heist of a lifetime falls into their path which promises all of which they desire. An offer they couldn't refuse, the duo commence on this harrowing new road which will soon reveal far more than they initially bargained for.
As this engrossing tale unfurls, it becomes evident that this heist is just a minor piece in a larger scheme for power where Bronwyn becomes the hidden ace that can tip the scales in this treacherous game of control and supremacy. Maintaining a pulse-pounding tempo throughout these pages, Nielsen sketches a vivid world where the intricately plotted threads of corruption, manipulation and cruelty are expressed throughout engaging storytelling. As much as the mystery-laced conflicts propel the story forward, it is Bronwyn's self-discovery quest that often stole my attention throughout this novel.
Through the help of a wildly charming and occasionally prickly royal (August) and his secretly compassionate adviser (Razenna), Bronwyn learns to lean into the forbidden aspects of her nature whilst sharpening her unique facets of power through heart-racing tactics that ignite a fire that aches to burn to its highest degree. Witnessing her step into her strength without shame, resistance and societal barriers was so incredibly moving while witnessing her shift from pawn to leader in this risky game for power offered deep satisfaction.
Much like the fantastical aspects of his tale, Nielsen excels at the romance. Whether familial, romantic or friendly companionship, love is so vividly explored in these pages and offers a softer contrast to the darker and complex storylines pulsing through this novel. Most notable is Bronwyn's connections with Eoin and August. Tastefully illustrated and delved into with an honest hand, Nielsen's depiction of a love triangle felt true to Bronwyn's character and uniquely added to both relationships. However it was the interactions with August that consistently captured my attention as each emotion-soaked scene beautifully peeled away the constricting layers concealing Bronwyn's true essence and most authentic version of self. An intense connection that left me breathless on multiple occasions (such well-executed and properly-placed spice!), it is their emotional bond that truly makes their interactions valuable moments that deepen both their arcs in unexpected manners. It'll be quite interesting to see how this romantic dynamic progresses in the next chapter of his tale.
FINAL VERDICT // A deeply absorbing, action-abundant reading experience, this immersive plot-forward series introduction breathes a new air into the world of fantasy and expertly tackles tricky tropes with a unique flair. Creatively enhancing siren lore, Nielsen's meticulously crafted dark narrative expresses well-executed conflicts where suspense, passion, curiosity and courage weave within its vibrant threads and its diverse cast of characters glisten off the page. With the magically complex heroine serving as the key pillar in this series, Bronwyn's story is as multifaceted as her heritage and I can't wait to see where this series takes her character in the next chapters of this magnificent tale. An enticing epic adventure that lured me deeper into this spectacular world page after page, The Curse of the Siren is one book I'll be strongly recommending for a long time to come. Simply phenomenal!
NOTEWORTHY & DARLING ANIMAL COMPANIONS // Penny, Cirrus, & Pusskettti
I just adore seeing sweet animal cameos on the page and seeing their influence throughout the narratives in which they thrive. These cute companions become such interesting elements to both the story at large and the unique storylines of their respective character companions.
*My greatest thanks to author S.E. Nielsen and The Nerd Fam for kindly sending along an advanced copy of this spectacular book -- all thoughts and verdicts are freely and authentically shared.
BOOK I | FORSAKEN DEITIES
A breathtaking debut, S.E. Nielsen's The Curse of the Siren is an intensely enthralling tale that cracks open the door to a bold fantasy where ancient magic intermingles with precarious curses and godly figures manipulate the fates of all those caught in their tangled webs of deceit and desire. Blazing with cutting betrayals, dizzying bargains, tantalizing bonds and richly-layered mysteries, this series opener steals one's attention from its initial sequence and keeps it locked in these pages till its jaw-dropping finale. With an enchanting heroine at the heart of his tale, this astonishing quest to discovery and riches will ultimately test the timeless theory of whether great risks elicit worthy rewards.
Commencing on a tense note, this narrative opens with Eoin & Bronwyn, a thieving pair of childhood best friends with forbidden magical assets who have sustained a humble life through the art of stolen acquisitions. With their most recent take unearthing Bronwyn's rare magical nature, her dual siren and fae heritage add a risky layer to their already complex state of survival. With their sights set on a free and honest future, a heist of a lifetime falls into their path which promises all of which they desire. An offer they couldn't refuse, the duo commence on this harrowing new road which will soon reveal far more than they initially bargained for.
As this engrossing tale unfurls, it becomes evident that this heist is just a minor piece in a larger scheme for power where Bronwyn becomes the hidden ace that can tip the scales in this treacherous game of control and supremacy. Maintaining a pulse-pounding tempo throughout these pages, Nielsen sketches a vivid world where the intricately plotted threads of corruption, manipulation and cruelty are expressed throughout engaging storytelling. As much as the mystery-laced conflicts propel the story forward, it is Bronwyn's self-discovery quest that often stole my attention throughout this novel.
Through the help of a wildly charming and occasionally prickly royal (August) and his secretly compassionate adviser (Razenna), Bronwyn learns to lean into the forbidden aspects of her nature whilst sharpening her unique facets of power through heart-racing tactics that ignite a fire that aches to burn to its highest degree. Witnessing her step into her strength without shame, resistance and societal barriers was so incredibly moving while witnessing her shift from pawn to leader in this risky game for power offered deep satisfaction.
Much like the fantastical aspects of his tale, Nielsen excels at the romance. Whether familial, romantic or friendly companionship, love is so vividly explored in these pages and offers a softer contrast to the darker and complex storylines pulsing through this novel. Most notable is Bronwyn's connections with Eoin and August. Tastefully illustrated and delved into with an honest hand, Nielsen's depiction of a love triangle felt true to Bronwyn's character and uniquely added to both relationships. However it was the interactions with August that consistently captured my attention as each emotion-soaked scene beautifully peeled away the constricting layers concealing Bronwyn's true essence and most authentic version of self. An intense connection that left me breathless on multiple occasions (such well-executed and properly-placed spice!), it is their emotional bond that truly makes their interactions valuable moments that deepen both their arcs in unexpected manners. It'll be quite interesting to see how this romantic dynamic progresses in the next chapter of his tale.
FINAL VERDICT // A deeply absorbing, action-abundant reading experience, this immersive plot-forward series introduction breathes a new air into the world of fantasy and expertly tackles tricky tropes with a unique flair. Creatively enhancing siren lore, Nielsen's meticulously crafted dark narrative expresses well-executed conflicts where suspense, passion, curiosity and courage weave within its vibrant threads and its diverse cast of characters glisten off the page. With the magically complex heroine serving as the key pillar in this series, Bronwyn's story is as multifaceted as her heritage and I can't wait to see where this series takes her character in the next chapters of this magnificent tale. An enticing epic adventure that lured me deeper into this spectacular world page after page, The Curse of the Siren is one book I'll be strongly recommending for a long time to come. Simply phenomenal!
NOTEWORTHY & DARLING ANIMAL COMPANIONS // Penny, Cirrus, & Pusskettti
I just adore seeing sweet animal cameos on the page and seeing their influence throughout the narratives in which they thrive. These cute companions become such interesting elements to both the story at large and the unique storylines of their respective character companions.
*My greatest thanks to author S.E. Nielsen and The Nerd Fam for kindly sending along an advanced copy of this spectacular book -- all thoughts and verdicts are freely and authentically shared.
July 5, 2026
Rating 2.75 ⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Single POV
Tropes:
Fantasy Heist
Fae bargains
Fae Politics
Shadow Daddy
Court Intrigue
Magical Relics
Forced Proximity
Forbidden attraction
Slow burn
Found Family
Hidden Powers
Cliffhanger
This one is honestly so difficult to rate because I can clearly see the book it could have been.
The opening completely hooked me. A fantasy heist centered around stealing magical relics? Immediately yes. The mystery surrounding the relics, the political tension between the Fae courts, and the promise of uncovering ancient secrets had me genuinely invested through the first half of the story.
Unfortunately, somewhere around the halfway point, the execution started losing me.
My biggest issue wasn't that the stakes kept getting bigge, as fantasy is supposed to escalate. It was that the story often sacrificed character consistency in order to create those bigger moments. Bronwyn is introduced as an experienced thief who's observant, resourceful, and cautious, but as the story progresses she repeatedly ignores obvious warning signs and makes increasingly impulsive decisions that stopped feeling consistent with the character I initially connected with. Instead of the plot unfolding naturally because of character choices, it often felt like the characters were making questionable decisions to serve the next twist rather than earning those turns through established behavior.
I also struggled with how Bronwyn's power progression was handled. She's continually discovering she is more powerful than anyone realized, yet she is given very little time or structure to actually understand Fae magic, her Siren abilities, or even the basic mechanics of her own powers. Rather than watching her grow into her abilities, it often felt like she was constantly reacting to new levels of power she didn’t have the foundation to control or understand.
Bronwyn ended up being one of the main reasons I struggled to stay engaged, especially in the second half. I initially really liked her and was willing to give grace to her immaturity early on. But instead of growth, I felt like I watched her steadily lose the traits that made her compelling. By the end, I no longer felt confident in her decision-making, and I didn’t finish the book feeling hopeful about her arc or interested in continuing her story.
The pacing itself is fast, but the scene transitions frequently left me disoriented. Chapters often jump forward in time or location without grounding the reader, which made it difficult to track how events were unfolding. Combined with the number of plot threads introduced in the second half, the story started to feel overcrowded and occasionally chaotic rather than tightly woven.
I also found myself noticing familiar fantasy romance structural elements, particularly for readers familiar with series like ACOTAR or Crescent City. The court dynamics, shadow-wielding High Lord archetype, and broader magical structure will likely feel recognizable. That didn’t negatively impact my enjoyment, but it did make certain elements feel less fresh than they initially appeared.
That said, there were still things I genuinely enjoyed. Ravenna completely stole every scene she was in. I loved her necromancy, her crow companion, her relationship reveal, and her role in the found-family dynamic. She added a level of depth and presence that consistently stood out. I also really appreciated August as a character. While he fits into a familiar “mysterious High Lord” archetype, he had a few standout differences, particularly in how he acknowledged Bronwyn’s age, inexperience, and lack of understanding of the world she was entering. I appreciated that he was more open and communicative than similar characters in the genre, and that he gave her space to grow rather than forcing the relationship forward too quickly. And then there's the unique take on Siren lore. Splitting Sirens into both the traditional sea-bound version and a hidden land-bound lineage was a creative twist that I wish had been explored even further.
Ironically, that's also where the title left me wanting more. For a book called The Curse of the Siren, Bronwyn's Siren heritage rarely felt like the driving force behind the story. Beyond influencing how she replenishes her magic and making her valuable to others, the "curse" itself never felt fully realized or explored, leaving me wanting a much deeper dive into that aspect of the world.
Ultimately, this wasn’t a bad book, it was a frustrating one. There are so many creative ideas here, from the Siren mythology to the relic-based magic system, but they never felt as grounded or fully developed as the premise promised. The first half had me completely invested, and I finished it because I kept hoping it would come together in a satisfying way. Instead, I was left more frustrated than satisfied, with a protagonist I no longer felt confident in, and a story that didn’t fully deliver on its strongest ideas.
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Single POV
Tropes:
Fantasy Heist
Fae bargains
Fae Politics
Shadow Daddy
Court Intrigue
Magical Relics
Forced Proximity
Forbidden attraction
Slow burn
Found Family
Hidden Powers
Cliffhanger
This one is honestly so difficult to rate because I can clearly see the book it could have been.
The opening completely hooked me. A fantasy heist centered around stealing magical relics? Immediately yes. The mystery surrounding the relics, the political tension between the Fae courts, and the promise of uncovering ancient secrets had me genuinely invested through the first half of the story.
Unfortunately, somewhere around the halfway point, the execution started losing me.
My biggest issue wasn't that the stakes kept getting bigge, as fantasy is supposed to escalate. It was that the story often sacrificed character consistency in order to create those bigger moments. Bronwyn is introduced as an experienced thief who's observant, resourceful, and cautious, but as the story progresses she repeatedly ignores obvious warning signs and makes increasingly impulsive decisions that stopped feeling consistent with the character I initially connected with. Instead of the plot unfolding naturally because of character choices, it often felt like the characters were making questionable decisions to serve the next twist rather than earning those turns through established behavior.
I also struggled with how Bronwyn's power progression was handled. She's continually discovering she is more powerful than anyone realized, yet she is given very little time or structure to actually understand Fae magic, her Siren abilities, or even the basic mechanics of her own powers. Rather than watching her grow into her abilities, it often felt like she was constantly reacting to new levels of power she didn’t have the foundation to control or understand.
Bronwyn ended up being one of the main reasons I struggled to stay engaged, especially in the second half. I initially really liked her and was willing to give grace to her immaturity early on. But instead of growth, I felt like I watched her steadily lose the traits that made her compelling. By the end, I no longer felt confident in her decision-making, and I didn’t finish the book feeling hopeful about her arc or interested in continuing her story.
The pacing itself is fast, but the scene transitions frequently left me disoriented. Chapters often jump forward in time or location without grounding the reader, which made it difficult to track how events were unfolding. Combined with the number of plot threads introduced in the second half, the story started to feel overcrowded and occasionally chaotic rather than tightly woven.
I also found myself noticing familiar fantasy romance structural elements, particularly for readers familiar with series like ACOTAR or Crescent City. The court dynamics, shadow-wielding High Lord archetype, and broader magical structure will likely feel recognizable. That didn’t negatively impact my enjoyment, but it did make certain elements feel less fresh than they initially appeared.
That said, there were still things I genuinely enjoyed. Ravenna completely stole every scene she was in. I loved her necromancy, her crow companion, her relationship reveal, and her role in the found-family dynamic. She added a level of depth and presence that consistently stood out. I also really appreciated August as a character. While he fits into a familiar “mysterious High Lord” archetype, he had a few standout differences, particularly in how he acknowledged Bronwyn’s age, inexperience, and lack of understanding of the world she was entering. I appreciated that he was more open and communicative than similar characters in the genre, and that he gave her space to grow rather than forcing the relationship forward too quickly. And then there's the unique take on Siren lore. Splitting Sirens into both the traditional sea-bound version and a hidden land-bound lineage was a creative twist that I wish had been explored even further.
Ironically, that's also where the title left me wanting more. For a book called The Curse of the Siren, Bronwyn's Siren heritage rarely felt like the driving force behind the story. Beyond influencing how she replenishes her magic and making her valuable to others, the "curse" itself never felt fully realized or explored, leaving me wanting a much deeper dive into that aspect of the world.
Ultimately, this wasn’t a bad book, it was a frustrating one. There are so many creative ideas here, from the Siren mythology to the relic-based magic system, but they never felt as grounded or fully developed as the premise promised. The first half had me completely invested, and I finished it because I kept hoping it would come together in a satisfying way. Instead, I was left more frustrated than satisfied, with a protagonist I no longer felt confident in, and a story that didn’t fully deliver on its strongest ideas.
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