Curses of Lavender

by Isabella Stofka

For as long as Thicket can remember, she has been plagued by dreams of a fantastical world where magic lurks in every crevice and flows through every living thing. Dreams that always felt a little too real, a little too much like memories. After one such dream goes haywire and leaves the ties between her and her town in shambles, Thicket desperately tries to prove her sanity and avoid the life of isolation drawing ever closer. As her attempts spiral out of her control, she realizes it doesn’t matter how hard she tries to fit in. It will never be enough—she will never be enough.

With nothing else to turn to, Thicket goes through a door in her dreams, hoping to find answers. Instead, she is transported to the world she has always dreamt of, but it is far from what she imagined. The kingdom is cursed, and according to the strangers in this new world, so was she, and now that she is awake, she is the only one who can save them. But with her memories gone and her past failures a suffocating weight, Thicket doesn’t see herself as the savior everyone believes her to be.

Thicket must make a choice. Give into her fear. Or, conquer her demons, reclaim her memories, and take back her throne.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Retellings, Magic, Young Adult, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance

435 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2025

About the author

Isabella Stofka moved around a lot growing up until finally settling in Rockville, Maryland with her husband and three cats. Ever since she was little, Isabella has woven epic stories in her mind and rambled about them to anyone who would listen. Eventually, she discovered the fine art of writing them down and has never turned back.

When she is not writing, she is either binge-watching her favorite TV show for the 20th time or devouring a good book—all while getting kitty cuddles, of course.

You can find her on Instagram at @isabellastofka_author, or on her website at isabellastofkaauthor.com

Reviews

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so incredibly grateful to have received an advanced copy of Curses of Lavender from the author! 🫶

“For all the girls who may not feel like confident badasses all the time…. You can still be the hero of your own story.”

Curses of Lavender is everything I could have ever asked for from a story and it is my absolute favorite sleeping beauty inspired story of all-time along with being one of my top reads of 2025 so far! 🥹💜 I love this version even better than the Disney version (which was my favorite prior to reading this book) so that speaks volumes especially since I am a major Disney lover! 💕 I seriously want this to be made into a movie so badly because I think it would be incredible on the big-screen and see this world and all the characters come to life in front of my eyes! 🍿🎬 I finished reading the whole story in less than 24 hours after starting it and I am absolutely obsessed and love everything about it to the point that I want to immediately reread the whole thing over again! 🫶

Thicket is such an incredible FMC and I loved her so much and just wanted to give her the biggest hug! ❤️ She is so relatable with her anxiety and constant stream of thoughts and I truly admire her strength and her determination throughout the story! 🥰 I additionally love Marcellus, Lotta, Caspian, Bern, and Elian and truly think they are all incredible. They are so wonderful and supportive to Thicket and it is just so beautiful to read! 🫶 I have one guy in particular that I have in mind for Thicket but I won’t be sharing who because you all need to read and find out! 🤭

The whole time I was reading felt like I was unraveling an onion because there was so much mystery and I wanted to know everything. Also just when it seems like I figured something out I was in for a big surprise with another big plot twist! 😱 Lastly, don’t even get me started with that ending because I am currently still in shock and needing book 2 ASAP! 🙀🙀🙀🙀

Thank you so much Isabella Stofka for writing this beautiful and incredible story. You are officially an autobuy author for me and I can’t wait to read all of your future books. If you love fantasy, Sleeping Beauty, epic world building, found family, slow burn, mystery, A Sparrow Among Stars by Sara Puissinger vibes (if you haven’t read this book yet this is an absolute must-read so add it to your TBR now 💜), and anxiety representation then this is the book for you! 🫶

[Lizleigh_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're in the mood for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and cause your heart to swell, look no further than Curses of Lavender. This novel intrigued me initially because it is a Sleeping Beauty retelling and I love a good princess story. However, in this version, our princess doesn't wait for a knight in shining armor; she saves herself, and it's every bit as empowering as it sounds.

As with any fantasy novel, world building takes time, and Stofka has created a world brimming with beautiful imagery and a unique magic system that's perfect for lovers of animals, royalty, and rites of passage. The detailed descriptions truly bring the story to life, painting vivid scenes that I found transported me to a realm of magic and intrigue.

One of the standout elements of this book is the intricate, sweet romance that leaves you guessing. There's just a hint of a love triangle, adding an extra layer of complexity and anticipation for what's to come in book 2. It's not overdone, but it is just enough to keep you hooked and yearning for more. Personally, I find myself going back and forth between the two love interests, and I think that speaks to how well thought out the story line is.

This novel was an absolute joy to read. I found myself fully immersed in its pages, experiencing a roller coaster of emotions (This book made me laugh out loud one minute and cry the next). I have extremely high hopes for the next book in the series, and I cannot wait to see how the story and characters evolve. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fun, heartfelt, and magical read.

[Luna ꪆৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

English version here, Dutch version below

4 ⭐

Before I begin this review, I want to thank the incredible author, Isabella Stofka, for giving me the opportunity to read this advanced copy.

4 🌟

For all the girls who may not feel like confident badasses all the time...
You can still be the hero of your own story.

This is a "fairy tale"-inspired story that follows the FMC, Thicket, a girl who has been struggling with vivid dreams, anxiety, loneliness, and feeling like an outsider in her life. I'm really curious how her journey will continue.

I really enjoyed the way the characters were written in this book. They felt so real and relatable, like people I could actually know. I especially liked Thicket and Alouette. With Thicket, it was because I could really relate to her feelings around loneliness, anxiety, and feeling like an outsider.

But what really blew me away was the world-building. Stofka creates a rich and detailed world that feels completely believable. Her world, with its unique culture and traditions, is a fascinating place to explore. And the magic system, with its intricate rules and limitations, is both fascinating and different from anything I've seen before.

I really enjoyed reading this book, and I would recommend it to you if you like fairy tale retellings and books about powerful MCs.

P.S. I'm 100% team Marcel!!!!

P.S. 2: If you read this and want to read something similar, try Long Live Evil by Sarah Rees Brennan. It gives me similar vibes.

Dutch version here

4 ⭐

Voordat ik aan deze recensie begin, wil ik de geweldige auteur, Isabella Stofka, bedanken dat ik de kans heb gekregen om dit vooruitexemplaar te lezen.

4 🌟

Voor alle meisjes die zich niet altijd zelfverzekerde badasses voelen... Je kunt nog steeds de held van je eigen verhaal zijn.

Dit is een door “sprookjes” geïnspireerd verhaal dat de FMC, Thicket, volgt. Een meisje dat worstelt met levendige dromen, angst, eenzaamheid en het gevoel een buitenstaander in haar eigen leven te zijn. Ik ben erg benieuwd hoe haar reis verder zal gaan.

Ik vond het geweldig hoe de personages in dit boek zijn geschreven. Ze voelden zo echt en herkenbaar, alsof het mensen waren die ik zelf zou kunnen kennen. Ik vond vooral Thicket en Alouette erg leuk. Bij Thicket was dat omdat ik me heel goed kon herkennen in haar gevoelens van eenzaamheid, angst en het gevoel er niet helemaal bij te horen.

Maar wat me echt omverblies, was de worldbuilding. Stofka creëert een rijke en gedetailleerde wereld die volledig geloofwaardig aanvoelt. Haar wereld, met zijn unieke cultuur en tradities, is een fascinerende plek om te verkennen. En het magiesysteem, met zijn ingewikkelde regels en beperkingen, is zowel boeiend als totaal anders dan alles wat ik eerder heb gezien.

Ik heb enorm genoten van dit boek en ik zou het zeker aanraden als je houdt van sprookjesherschrijvingen en boeken over krachtige hoofdpersonages.

P.S. Ik ben 100% team Marcel!!!!

P.S. 2: Als je dit hebt gelezen en iets soortgelijks wilt lezen, probeer Long Live Evil van Sarah Rees Brennan. Het geeft me een vergelijkbare vibe.

[Lex · Rating 5 out of 5]

I NEED Book 2!

🥹😮‍💨🤩
I fell in love with all the characters, not just the main ones! The story is unique and leaves you craving more. Even though I was busy, I found myself thinking about the book constantly and couldn't wait to get back to it to see what happens next. I had been in a reading slump, so it was refreshing to find something so enjoyable and entertaining. The interactions between the characters were incredibly cute and fun to read. Overall, it was a fantastic experience and a great read!

~ P.S-Buckle up for a ride of emotions! 😅

[iknw7books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh you guys are not ready at all !!! It’s an absolute chef kiss.

First of all, I had so many emotions throughout the book and I’m so excited for the second book.

The author, Isabella, has wrote a beautiful portal fantasy who is easy to read and not a headache were you have problems to understand things.
The characters are unique and well written and I’m so excited to see whose man will people choose for thicket 🤭 !

I want to congrats her for this book hoping that many people will read it and feel the same feelings that I had ! 💜💜

https://pin.it/3NAAiy3aX

Me while reading it !

Ps: I share Marcel with you guys but I love him soooo sooo much !!

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

* ARC Review *

I love fantasy and romance so I was very excited to receive an advanced copy of this book! While the idea of fairytale retellings is nothing new, Isabella Stofka put a unique spin on the concept and approached the Sleeping Beauty story in a way I have never experienced before! The themes felt a little reminiscent of the TV show Once Upon a Time and many other books in the genre, which still having a plot line exclusive to Isabella’s retelling.

I personally didn’t jive with the specific writing style, but I still enjoyed the plot enough to read it all the way through! I’d highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance without spice and a little bit of realism with their magic.✨

[abbey jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!! This was a wonderful and enchanting read, and I loved the fairytale vibes!

The writing itself was amazing and I was able to immerse myself into the world so so easily. I loved all of the characters as they were all developed so well, and even the side characters had so much personality that I don’t see very often! I absolutely ADORE the love interest/s and I’m so excited to see where that part of the story goes!!

The world building was good, though I would have liked to see the author expand more on the other kingdoms and what the world looked like, further than the two main places the book was set in. I also would have liked to see more of the magic system, as I feel like it was a little bit limited to a few spells and enchantments and I’m sure there is much more possible that we don’t know about.

And lastly, the ending was one of the best ends I have read in a long, long time! Amazing placement and complete shocker, and I cannot wait to read the next one :)

[Carly Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg, I freaking loved this book! This book really hit me in my feels, because I relate to Thicket so much, it was such an amazing read it had me mad, it definitely had me sad, it had me laughing so hard, and then I was shook at the end, I think my jaw is still on the floor somewhere 😂👀. It gave me Sleeping Beauty meets Alice in Wonderland vibes, and I freaking loved it! Also no spoilers but page 511 had me crying, I’m still not okay I’m going to think about it for weeks! But that’s what makes books so good, it’s the ones you still think about from time to time, that left such a huge impact on you. Anywho, back on topic, I definitely recommend this book I honestly wish I could give more than five stars it’s definitely up in my top 10 of favorite books I’ve ever read, I’m praying that there will be a sequel 👀👀👀🙏🏻 (no pressure😅) You did an amazing job Bella!!!! 🪻💜✨

[jeanelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 can’t come soon enough 😭🥹 this book was beautiful, and I found myself really loving Thicket and all of the supporting characters. This was an incredible and unique take on Sleeping Beauty, I haven’t read anything like this up until now. It takes you through so many emotions: anger (for Thicket), sadness, it’ll have you laughing and squealing with how cute and wholesome the interactions are.

Thicket is an incredible FMC. She’s relatable, funny, and strong, and you just can’t help but root for her from beginning to end. All of the supporting characters were amazing, especially Bern. I loved every single second of this book, thank you so much to Stofka for creating this masterpiece 🥹❤️.

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliantly Engaging, up-and-coming New Author

Nearly 100 highlights later, this book did not disappoint. Journeying with Thicket as she sifts through dreams versus reality is both entertaining and insightful as Isabella Stofka beautifully portrays the pain of coming of age, finding one’s footing, and perceiving how one’s unique gifts might save the day after all, even if one isn’t naturally inclined to be the heroine-type. Stofka clearly came into her own as a writer over the course of this work, and I am thoroughly excited to read the next chapter of Thicket’s story!

World-building:

“I could see the Golden Mountains. The great constellations and field of stars” (Stofka, Curses of Lavender).
I wish I had more highlights on this in particular, but the world building is spectacular. For those of you who like fun, descriptive passages that help you to visualize the world, you’re going to have to wait a little bit. However, once Stofka introduces her fantasy world, you won’t be disappointed. I remember thinking at first, ‘Am I reading the right book?’ Trust me, it’s worth it.

Identity:

“I’m not a princess. I’m not a warrior.” Her voice thickened with unshed tears. “I’m nothing” (Stofka, Curses of Lavender).
For the girls who don’t believe in themselves, there is both a consoling and realistic message to be found amidst this fantasy world. For every girl like Thicket, there is also a Bern. I took great solace in Stofka’s exploration of Thicket’s identity (and perhaps too her own identity as a writer), as well as in Bern, who so clearly juxtaposes earlier characters.
At times, I found the revelation about Thicket’s identity by Thicket and others a little too apparent for my taste. However, I do believe that these moments still served to benefit the work as a whole and showed Stofka’s great attention to detail when it came to fashioning Thicket and the other characters. Thicket serves as an anchor for the other characters in Curses of Lavender, even when she herself seems to feel lost as sea.
Overall, I find Thicket’s character development refreshing and inspiring in a contemporary literary landscape bedecked with carbon copy FMCs that should have remained in 2015.

Sweet Romance:

“It was as if she were all he could see. All he wanted to see. Like he didn’t care if his entire world was blurry if only she was in focus” (Stofka, Curses of Lavender).
I’m not usually a fan of two potential suitors for a main character, but Stofka’s take kept me hooked without being annoying. The tortured, sweet Elian and the even more tortured and broody Marcellus will both needle into readers’ hearts.
Something that struck me particularly on this note is Stofka’s ability to say so much without the characters having to say anything at all. She conveys the awkwardness of first butterflies and new discoveries well when the characters shouldn’t have to say anything at all… and the beautiful part is, they don’t have to, because Stofka’s already beautifully illustrated a visual of all that needs to be said with different types of glances and demure physicality (see what I did there?).
The book is rife with laughs, from spirit animal jokes to witty conversation to cute, awkward moments that definitely had me kicking my feet! I found myself wanting to share my enjoyment of this book with others at every page turn.
Also, Elian is a SOLID male character. This is a feat alone.

Conclusion:

“Why do you believe that? When I look at you, I see a girl who is stubborn, brave—to the point of being reckless, perhaps—but nevertheless I see a girl with heart” (Stofka, Curses of Lavender).
I see a story with great merit belonging to an up-and-coming author. Curses of Lavender is a great start to a series that I believe has the potential to be spectacular.
Will I be reading future books?
Absolutely. To the author: well done. I so enjoy living in this world you’ve created. Is it bad that I wish my dreams were like this?

[Ginnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I devoured Curses of Lavender and I need book two ASAP. Thicket is such a strong, capable FMC—she doesn't need saving, but with the right allies, she's even more powerful.

The MMCs? Kinda? Sorta? We’ve got a broody guard who won’t even dance with the princess because of his loyalty to hierarchy (sir please), and a bethrothed who turns out to be incredibly respectful and patient—a far cry from the usual possessive love interests you see in romantasy. Honestly? It was refreshing.

The world-building threw me at first—starting off with a contemporary feel in a Sleeping Beauty retelling had me confused. But it all came together in a really clever way, and I loved where it ended up.

That reveal at the end? I should have seen it coming. It was hinted at throughout the whole book—THE WHOLE BOOK. The way the curse ties everything back to its source was so clever.

And don’t even get me started on the dream state—I was questioning reality right along with Thicket.

This book had twists, mystery, and a heroine worth rooting for. I didn’t feel super connected to the other characters yet, but that made sense—Thicket’s just starting to rediscover herself and the people around her. I’m ready to learn more in book two!

Please give us a book two. There has to be a book two. Right? No pressure. But, right?

[darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curses of Lavender is a unique take on an old classic that leaves you unable to stop turning the page! There are a lot of Sleeping Beauty inspired stories out there, but this is by far my favorite one. The story plays out in a very unexpected way and I loved all of the characters. Thicket is an inspiring main character and I think that a lot of people can relate to her. This story surprised me with its humor and banter, and I am a sucker for found family tropes and a slow-burn romance. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves unique worldbuilding, hints of romance, and an overall sense of empowerment in their stories. I need the sequel now!!!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok but the ending?? I CAN NOT wait for book 2.
Such a well written book, that sets the story so well, you can picture yourself following Thicket along on her journey.
This is a sleeping beauty retelling story, and the spin on it is just perfect. There are some surprises you just don’t see coming.
Thank you Bella for allowing me to read this first

[Samm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Isabella for letting me ARC read this. I'm so grateful for this.

This book is everything I ask for in a book. Definitely one of my favourite Sleeping Beauty inspired book. I read this fairly quickly all within 24 hours. I am just obsessed with this book and I wish I could re read this for the first time again. I had so many feels in this book. From laughter to crying to every other emotion.

Thicket is just an amazing FMC where I related to with insecurities, anxiety and overthinking. However, you see her shine with her strength and determination. It was amazing watching her go back and forth with all her emotions but then standing her ground. Watching her grow was chef kiss and knowing that she's a princess and doesn't wait for prince charming to save her. She can do it all on her own. Her friends that she has, I love every one of them.

I need book 2 right now... that ending... yeah no, I'm just in shock still from that. I can not wait to read more about everyone and continue on. I'm looking forward to all your future books.

[R.I. Aryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

if i can't have book 2 right now then let me at least have Marcellus for the rest of eternity. no negotions, ETERNITY.

[review may contain spoilers]

before i start talking about the book i think Marcel deserves his own paragraph at the beginning. why is this man so omg omg ahhh PLS I LOVE HIM HES PERFECT. i thought myself the type of person who'd choose a prince over a guard but apparently not but maybe marcel is the exception because it's HIM. i love love love his personality and his indifference and his own way of caring for Thicket. he's infuriating in a damn good way alright and that PROTECTIVENESS (i know he's her guard so like that's his duty but still..). he's a really interesting character, and his determination and strength despite his powers being categorized as 'weak' is admirable. seriously, i love everything about him. nearly every interaction he had with Thicket had me kicking my feet and squealing icl. ALSO THAT BONUS SCENE OMG THE INDIRECT KISS JAKSHSJA. I NEED MORE PLEASE.

im normally not a fan of love triangles but this was honestly so well written and not overboard at all. the chemistry for both love interests were definitely there, though this book focuses more on Elian. i really wanted to see more of Elian and Marcel's relationship so hopefully we get more of that in book 2!!

im definitely team Marcel. PLEASE let him be endgame, i will do anything.

okay, onto the rest of the book.

the premise of this story is incredible and unique; a sleeping beauty retelling, and im always a sucker for fairytales. it's been a while since ive read this kind of fantasy (portal fantasy, i believe it's called?) and i truly enjoyed it. there's so many secrets and mysteries to unveil and the world building is nicely incorporated into the narrative without overwhelming the reader unlike a lot of fantasy books! the ending was intense and wow.. THATS where the title came from. it's all piecing together now!!

the characters were amazing. not just the mains, but the side characters as well. i personally loved Alouette and cannot wait to learn more about her. Thicket is so darling and sweet and caring and i just want to hug her, really. she's relatable and determined and watching her grow throughout the story and find her worth was wonderful.

Isabella Stofka is an AMAZING writer and this is such a great debut novel! i love love love your writing so much and absolutely cannot wait to read more of it!! you have a way with words to make everything sound so entrancing and lush and i loveddd reading through the descriptions! the characters relationships and dynamics were incredibly written too and i loved watching them evolve.

congratulations on your debut and i hope you much success on your author journey!! xx



now this is more of a like a bit of speculation but Elian seemed a little nervous when Thicket brought up finding her memories, and i think maybe he acted odd when it was mentioned how she woke up? so what if.. either there WAS a true love's kiss and maybe Thicket didn't wake herself up after al. PLEASE i want Marcel to have been the one to kiss her if this is true. on my knees rn.

[Nicole J · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could, I’d give this book 6/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Oh my oh my, where to even begin?! Well with the dedication obviously!

🪻✨“For all the girls who may not feel like confident badasses all the time…. You can still be the hero of your own story.”✨🪻

Talk about making your audience feel seen and known! Stofka helps to remind us that we shouldn’t have to wait for one person to come along to save us, that we have that power ourselves.

Curses of Lavender is a spin on the story of Sleeping Beauty but with twists that remind me of the show Once Upon a Time. One of the biggest twists, Thicket, the FMC, did not need true loves kiss to save her. She some how saves her self (to find out how you have to read the book!). Stofka fills her first book in the series with beautiful world building, imagery, and an intriguing magic system.

Let’s talk more about some of the characters. Thicket was the most relatable character for me from page 1 in comparison to other books I’ve read. Seeing her grow and battle with anxiety, self-doubt, and self-worth was so touching. As someone who has experienced all of that at some point in my life, it connected with me. Actually all three of the main characters (in my opinion), Thicket, Elian, and Marcellus were so relatable for me, for different reasons that I will not spoil. I found a piece of myself in each of them and love these characters so much already! Also there’s a budding love triangle between these three and I can not currently choose if I’m on Team Elian or Team Marcellus. It’s giving sugar and spice (like snarky/sarcastic) vibes between the two of them and I love both of those vibes so I’m on the fence currently.

Stofka masterfully crafts the story so that you are slowly peeling away layer after layer of her characters and even the plot and its mysterious puzzle pieces.

Now, let’s talk about themes. I found that Stofka filled her book with the following: dreams, anxiety, loneliness, self-worth, self-discovery, empowerment, inner strength, and strength from a community.

By the end of the book I became so giddy realizing that I had answers while still being plagued with more questions afterward. This ending was a great setup for enticing readers and preparing us for the next book.

Isabella Stofka, congratulations, you’ve earned yourself a new auto buy reader and fangirl!

And to all people out there, this book is a great reminder that “you’re capable of more than you realize.”

Happy Reading!

[DaniReads12 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curses Of Lavender
By Isabella Stofka

I want to start this review off by Thanking Isabella Stofka for picking me as an Arc Reader for her masterpiece.
Isabella’s writing makes her epic world building come to life. Just when I thought “I know what’s going to happen” Isabella proved me WRONG!! She leaves you guessing with her twist. This novel intrigued me most because I do love a good retelling.. this Sleeping Beauty inspired book left me satisfied yet wanting more.

Thicket is not only a beautiful name but a strong FMC who waits for no shining knight to come rescue her.
The dedication alone made you feel seen!
“For all the girls who may not feel like confident badasses all the time…
You can still be the hero of your own story.”

Picture an onion, all those layers. This magical story is like said onion. While reading, you’re peeling away so many layers of the story.. with the characters.. the plot.. and all its mysteries.

I am a fan. Isabella you have made me a believer. 💜

[Laura Vega · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curses of Lavender is pure magic — an infinite-star story that you simply cannot miss.

Let’s start with the worldbuilding: it’s absolutely phenomenal. Vivid, immersive, and beautifully crafted — truly a masterpiece. But what takes this book to the next level is the characters. Thicket is not your typical fantasy lead. They’re real, raw, and incredibly relatable. Their struggles feel personal, and I’m sure many readers will see themselves reflected in Thicket’s journey.

Though it's labeled as a retelling, I promise you — every page feels fresh, original, and enchantingly unique. This story stands completely on its own.

From jaw-dropping plot twists to heartwarming secondary characters and unforgettable familiars (aneumas!), Curses of Lavender delivers it all. There are scenes that will tug at your heartstrings, and others that will empower you to embrace who you are, just like Thicket does.

No book is truly perfect, but to me, this one comes very, very close. It's a story that lingers in your soul.

Don’t miss this magical gem.💎

[Ranie · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨unique magic system
✨beautiful world building
✨strong FMC

Curses of Lavender follows FMC Thicket as she navigates vivid dreams, anxiety, loneliness and the desire to be enough. In this fairy tale reimagining, Thicket doesn’t need a prince to do this for her. She does the damn thing herself!

Stofka builds an incredibly detailed world with a unique magic system that work beautifully together. Every aspect is well thought out and connected in ways that slowly get revealed throughout the book. I’m a sucker for a solidly built, intricate magical world and this fit the bill to a tee.

Every character in this story has their own voice and moments of development. I loved learning more about how each of their relationships evolve with Thicket as she becomes more and more comfortable with her situation.

I am absolutely team Marcel and so excited for the second book!

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I refuse to let male arrogance waste precious blood."

A quote so fitting for Women's History Month found within the pages of an upcoming debut novel, Curses of Lavender by Isabella Stofka

A portal fantasy retelling of Sleeping Beauty blending the magic of fairytales with the raw reality of mental health.
Thicket Rose desires to be like everyone else; normal.
Her dreams, however, have created trauma, loss and desperation. As her world comes crashing down, she escapes to her dreams, opening a portal another world— a world where she belongs. This unique retelling of Sleeping Beauty asks us to let go of our past lives and create a life where we can't wait to wake up everyday.
ARC review: 5/5
Spice: 0, written for young adults
Isabella will be attending a signing at
@friendstoloversbookstore in Alexandria, Virginia in April!
I cannot wait to meet her in person

[Victoria Kennerknecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a book that is like a fairytale, full of many emotions, and also slightly twisted, this is the book for you!
The depictions of the scenery and the animals was absolutely breath taking, and so visually appealing!
From the very beginning I was able to connect with Thicket on so many powerful levels. My heart broke for this girl, understanding how she felt so alone and unimportant.
Following her story and watching her wake up to her true self and potential was phenomenal!
Every character in this was written so well, from the main characters to the secondary, to the fillers. I hope to see more of Alouette as I feel her character could be huge in book 2!
And that ending!!! I need book 2 now!!

[Pixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Isabella for having me on your Arc team 💜

Curses of Lavender is a unique retelling inspired by Sleeping Beauty in which the FMC saves herself, but not entirely without consequence.

The story drew me in from the start. I feel Thicket is a very relatable character, facing rejection and nothing she does ever being good enough, even for her own mum.

Having been plagued by strange dreams for years that cause her to be outcast by everyone, she's one day had enough of fighting the dreams after her first day back at work goes awfully wrong, and decides to enter a mysterious dream door... But of course, not all is as it seems.

I can't wait for book 2, especially after that ending!!

[Rebecca Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curses of Lavender
5 Stars

- This book was deeply clever. The magical systems, banter, relationships, and world building were very well written.
- This book was a unique take on a sleeping beauty retelling.
- I really resonated with the main character’s anxiety and fear of not being enough. I think it is really special that you see her confidence grow as the people around her build her up and call her higher.
- I especially enjoyed the magical animals, and how animals play a big part in the magical system.
- The magical hierarchy was REALLY interesting.
- I am really excited for the next book and looking forward to diving into the characters even more.

I’d recommend this book to lovers of fairytales and those who enjoy wholesome fantasy series with a sprinkle of romance! 💘

[CoffeeLovinRi · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Book Review
Rating / Recommend: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 / 🌶️/ Yes

My Thoughts:

I really enjoyed reading this! It’s a cute fantasy romance. (A Sleeping Beauty retelling where she saves herself.) It has lots of magic, found family (in a way), a charming prince, and a grumpy bossy knight.

It has no spice, only a kiss. This is great for teens and for low or no-spice readers who just want to enjoy a cute fantasy without spice.

I know a lot of people love Marcellus but he gets on my nerves because I just know he’s keeping something from Thicket! Just tell her what you’re hiding already!!! And stop being a butt head. 😤🤣
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think Elian is 100% trustworthy either.

CW: bullying, low self-esteem, animal cruelty, memory loss.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️Thank you so so much to the author, Isabella, for the opportunity to be an arc reader for this book!!!⭐️

"For all the girls who may not feel like confident badasses all the time... You can still be the hero of your own story"

This book was an absolutely amazing read!! The writing was captiving, the characters were lovable, and the story itself keeps you wanting more and more and more. It is an enthralling story inspired by sleeping beauty and once I started I was barely able to put the book down (alas, sleep won out). Isabella Stofka is now top of my autobuy authors list and I cannot wait to see where she goes from here!

[Melli · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually finished this on my train ride home on the weekend and found the story to be enjoyable. It does leave off a cliff hanger of sorts and in a "unresolved" place. I found out about this book after seeing some ARC reviews and was excited both about the plot and color schemes (purple duhh). It is a good book, but I won't say it was life changing or the best type of retelling I've read. However, it is a simple read and you will be pulled along in the journey. There is a bit of a love triangle (not my fav microtrope), but it doesn't lessen the plot much which is good. It does touch on imposter syndrome and mental health which was a really nice point. Not many books really discuss that in the retelling space and it was a nice modern point to today's conversation. I think overall it was a solid one and would recommend.

[alicia ☽ · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

a sleeping beauty retelling where SHE SAVES HERSELF!!!!

i’ve enjoyed this book so much and i think that every fantasy reader should read it! it has an amazing world building and it’s so beautifully written. the plot had me hooked and its originality is very refreshing. the ending is MIND-BLOWING and i can’t wait to read the second part! 💜

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beautiful prose, the intriguing characters, the way the plot allows the reader to make guesses about things that aren’t obvious. This book is truly just one that you won’t be able to put down. I absolutely cannot wait to see what else the author has to share!

[cheyanne jae · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really sucks you in and shocks you from the very beginning and gives you no choice but to be completely invested in Thickets story. The plot twisted so early and left me absolutely shook. The story was so good and I loved the world building. I just... I can't wait for the next one because... I need to know about Marcellus... iykyk. There's something there, WHAT IS IT?!!? Anywhere, excellent writing. Beautiful, heartwrenching and unique story. Can't wait for book 2!

[Mel Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

loved this, can’t wait for book 2 and i am so grateful that this went from being a stand alone to a duology (first time i’ll probably say that)