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Curse Collectors #1
Carved in Cherry
One thing set Lydia Shaw and her store apart from the other antique shops in town…
Lydia’s collection was plagued by curses, and it was her duty to break them.
Rachel, Angie, and Jo knew nothing about their aunt’s secret life. In fact, they didn’t even know she owned an antique shop, until they inherited it. Unfortunately for them, Lydia passed down more than just her store. The sisters are the proud new owners of countless deadly curses, buried under centuries of dust.
Lydia also left behind her apprentice, Peter. He does everything he can to protect the girls, as they explore their new store, unaware of the dangers it hides. In spite of his efforts, Rachel finds herself obsessed with opening a strange trunk, Angie has vivid dreams, haunted by a man who claims he needs her help, and Jo’s imagination starts to run wild.
When one of them falls victim to a curse, it’s up to Peter and her sisters to save her. But, if Peter can’t teach them to wield a magic, that he barely understands himself, she’ll be the first one to die.
Lydia’s collection was plagued by curses, and it was her duty to break them.
Rachel, Angie, and Jo knew nothing about their aunt’s secret life. In fact, they didn’t even know she owned an antique shop, until they inherited it. Unfortunately for them, Lydia passed down more than just her store. The sisters are the proud new owners of countless deadly curses, buried under centuries of dust.
Lydia also left behind her apprentice, Peter. He does everything he can to protect the girls, as they explore their new store, unaware of the dangers it hides. In spite of his efforts, Rachel finds herself obsessed with opening a strange trunk, Angie has vivid dreams, haunted by a man who claims he needs her help, and Jo’s imagination starts to run wild.
When one of them falls victim to a curse, it’s up to Peter and her sisters to save her. But, if Peter can’t teach them to wield a magic, that he barely understands himself, she’ll be the first one to die.
- GenresParanormalFantasyRomance
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2014
9 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Kirke
36 books204 followersElizabeth Kirke wanted to be an author before she even knew what an author was. She used to say that she wanted to be an artist, but that was only because she was too young to write and had to tell stories with pictures instead. She hasn't stopped writing since she learned how. It wasn't long before she dreamed of becoming an author and couldn't be happier now that that dream is a reality.
If she isn't writing...well, let's be honest; if she isn't writing she's probably on Facebook thinking that she should start writing. But, if she isn't writing or on Facebook, she's probably doing something involving books, baking, gardening, or yarn. In an ideal world, she'd be reading and knitting while something from the garden is in the oven. Then again, in an ideal world, she'd have a flock of ducks and a couple of goats.
Like most slightly-nosy, avid readers, Elizabeth can't resist trying to catch a peek at books she sees people reading when out in public to see if she can figure out what it is. While doing just that one day, she realized that it would probably be the coolest-thing-ever if she caught a complete stranger reading one of her books. That's her new dream.
If she isn't writing...well, let's be honest; if she isn't writing she's probably on Facebook thinking that she should start writing. But, if she isn't writing or on Facebook, she's probably doing something involving books, baking, gardening, or yarn. In an ideal world, she'd be reading and knitting while something from the garden is in the oven. Then again, in an ideal world, she'd have a flock of ducks and a couple of goats.
Like most slightly-nosy, avid readers, Elizabeth can't resist trying to catch a peek at books she sees people reading when out in public to see if she can figure out what it is. While doing just that one day, she realized that it would probably be the coolest-thing-ever if she caught a complete stranger reading one of her books. That's her new dream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 28, 2018
Before I dived into this story, I really wasn't sure what I was getting into at first, but because I have read other books by this author, I had a really good feeling that it was full of Paranormal and that I would love it.
The characters were phenomenal. I was completely reeled in by the characters in this story. I wanted to know more about the characters and what their parts were in the story and how they all fit in. I felt so bad for Jo though. I made a connection with her and just knew how she felt within this story.
The story-line was incredible. I was enchanted by the mystery and magic that flowed off the pages of this story. I also figured out how the title fit in the story too. Kirke has a way of making us think things through as she begins to unfold the important parts of the story and she magically made it happen in this one. This story has left me shocked and in awe but in a good way and I also never saw the ending coming. I must also add that I hate cliffhangers and this cliffhanger has left me with questions and pondering what MIGHT happen next and if my theories are correct. I desperately NEED book two now and I hope that I don't have to wait too long for it!! This book is very addicting and intriguing and I highly recommend it!!
The characters were phenomenal. I was completely reeled in by the characters in this story. I wanted to know more about the characters and what their parts were in the story and how they all fit in. I felt so bad for Jo though. I made a connection with her and just knew how she felt within this story.
The story-line was incredible. I was enchanted by the mystery and magic that flowed off the pages of this story. I also figured out how the title fit in the story too. Kirke has a way of making us think things through as she begins to unfold the important parts of the story and she magically made it happen in this one. This story has left me shocked and in awe but in a good way and I also never saw the ending coming. I must also add that I hate cliffhangers and this cliffhanger has left me with questions and pondering what MIGHT happen next and if my theories are correct. I desperately NEED book two now and I hope that I don't have to wait too long for it!! This book is very addicting and intriguing and I highly recommend it!!
January 12, 2019
Magical story...
This was a really enjoyable, paranormal read....the characters were particularly well described and the plot was fascinating and unpredictable..
A magical story with intrigue, curses, runes and romance, and a totally unexpected ending; this is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more...I received a copy of this book from the author via Quirky Blind Date With a Book
This was a really enjoyable, paranormal read....the characters were particularly well described and the plot was fascinating and unpredictable..
A magical story with intrigue, curses, runes and romance, and a totally unexpected ending; this is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more...I received a copy of this book from the author via Quirky Blind Date With a Book
February 11, 2019
An amazing adventure in rune-casting and curse breaking. Mystery, suspense and romance. I stayed up till the wee hours to find out how it would end. I cannot wait to read the next installment!!
Bit of a cliffhanger ending.
Bit of a cliffhanger ending.
September 1, 2016
I'm a huge, I mean, huge fan of this author. She's one of my most favorite authors, ever!! Elizabeth Kirke's writing is wonderful. She knows how to draw a reader into her world and be enraptured by what they read. Starting this book, I thought it would be like her other series, the More than Magic series, but I was pleasantly surprised that that wasn't the case. It was different, unique, and although it was a paranormal book, like her other series, it was very different.
Her characters were interesting. I honestly loved them from the first couple of pages. I was laughing at a scene that happened early in the book within moments, and that's when I knew this book was a winner. When a book can draw me in within the first few pages, I know that it's going to be an amazing book.
I'm not going to say anything else about this book, because I don't want to spoil the book for anyone, but do yourself a favor and read this book! It's amazing and will captive you for hours! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
Her characters were interesting. I honestly loved them from the first couple of pages. I was laughing at a scene that happened early in the book within moments, and that's when I knew this book was a winner. When a book can draw me in within the first few pages, I know that it's going to be an amazing book.
I'm not going to say anything else about this book, because I don't want to spoil the book for anyone, but do yourself a favor and read this book! It's amazing and will captive you for hours! I highly recommend this book to everyone!
June 29, 2015
This was a fun look at the world of runes and magic, and I appreciated the humor throughout the novel very much. The sisters are intriguing characters, very well developed, that I enjoyed immensely, and I just love Peter. From the first moment we meet him, in his comical stance as he attempts to protect the shop with a sword against the sisters who have no idea who he is, I knew I was going to get a kick out of his antics.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
March 14, 2017
*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Rachel, Angie, and their adopted sister Jo recently inherited an antique shop from their late aunt Lydia. They go there to check the shop out, clean everything up, and see if there’s anything worth keeping or throwing out. While there they come across a worker named Peter who is quite shocked and thinks they’re burglars and arms himself with an antique sword. After being scared, the girls explain who they are and eventually Peter believes them, but is still not too welcoming. The girls are there for a few days, but there is so much stuff that they don’t seem to know where to start. The more they try to organize and categorize everything, the weirder things start to become. Rachel finds this old trunk that she becomes obsessed with opening, Angie is seeing weird things in reflections and Jo is hearing weird voices. Rachel and Angie are also having very weird dreams every night. Rachel has dreams that she and Peter kiss, and Angie has dreams about a strange and mysterious man she’s never seen before. However as soon as they wake up they can never remember anything they dreamed except for random bits and pieces that they can’t seem to make sense of. Rachel is also started to get feverish and becomes extremely tired all the time and Peter thinks it’s finally time to tell them what makes the antique shop, and their late aunt Lydia, so unique.
I thought this was a very good paranormal story. There were many shocking moments that happened that were integrated very well. However I did think there were a couple too many dream sequences. I know that that’s how the story had to continue to explain things, but if the characters didn’t remember anything anyway, it just make the story stop for a bit then slowly start back up. However I did enjoy it and would be interested in reading more of the series.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
Rachel, Angie, and their adopted sister Jo recently inherited an antique shop from their late aunt Lydia. They go there to check the shop out, clean everything up, and see if there’s anything worth keeping or throwing out. While there they come across a worker named Peter who is quite shocked and thinks they’re burglars and arms himself with an antique sword. After being scared, the girls explain who they are and eventually Peter believes them, but is still not too welcoming. The girls are there for a few days, but there is so much stuff that they don’t seem to know where to start. The more they try to organize and categorize everything, the weirder things start to become. Rachel finds this old trunk that she becomes obsessed with opening, Angie is seeing weird things in reflections and Jo is hearing weird voices. Rachel and Angie are also having very weird dreams every night. Rachel has dreams that she and Peter kiss, and Angie has dreams about a strange and mysterious man she’s never seen before. However as soon as they wake up they can never remember anything they dreamed except for random bits and pieces that they can’t seem to make sense of. Rachel is also started to get feverish and becomes extremely tired all the time and Peter thinks it’s finally time to tell them what makes the antique shop, and their late aunt Lydia, so unique.
I thought this was a very good paranormal story. There were many shocking moments that happened that were integrated very well. However I did think there were a couple too many dream sequences. I know that that’s how the story had to continue to explain things, but if the characters didn’t remember anything anyway, it just make the story stop for a bit then slowly start back up. However I did enjoy it and would be interested in reading more of the series.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
August 12, 2018
Three sisters inherit an estranged aunt's antique shop--what could go wrong? When your shop is not so much an antique haberdashery as it is a front for breaking curses, a lot! Let's just all hope three sisters, with three very different goals, personalities, and motives, can figure out how to cure a curse before one of them doesn't make it out of the shop alive.
This was my first book by Elizabeth Kirke, and even though I do not read much paranormal romance, I could not put it down! I was completely enthralled from the first page to the last, and enjoyed having a multi-character POV that was seamlessly done and engrossing. This was a new take on paranormal romance with a unique plot, memorable characters, and a romance element that was believable and endearing. I CANNOT WAIT until the next book in this series!
This was my first book by Elizabeth Kirke, and even though I do not read much paranormal romance, I could not put it down! I was completely enthralled from the first page to the last, and enjoyed having a multi-character POV that was seamlessly done and engrossing. This was a new take on paranormal romance with a unique plot, memorable characters, and a romance element that was believable and endearing. I CANNOT WAIT until the next book in this series!
January 5, 2019
Carved in Cherry by Elizabeth Kirke is a book that I received under a Quirky Blind Date with an Author. It was a fun read full of magic and curses that had to be broken. Three sisters find that they have inherited their aunt's antique shop in a Old Town, a small town that was established in the 18th century. What they find out is magical and also frightening. They have decisions to make about the old shop - keep it, trash some of the contents, or sell it. Is it a coincidence, fate of destiny? Who is Peter?
The characters and plot are well developed and researched. I really enjoyed reading this book; it is not my normal choice of books, but I would read more by this author. I recommend reading this book if you are open minded and ready for a great story.
The characters and plot are well developed and researched. I really enjoyed reading this book; it is not my normal choice of books, but I would read more by this author. I recommend reading this book if you are open minded and ready for a great story.
January 10, 2019
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I am very hard to please when it comes to books about magic, ghosts or the supernatural. That is why I don't tend to read them often. However, I thought this book was very good. I feel like my review is going to be lacking because the things I found interesting would probably give away too much about the story so I don't want to go into too much detail. I will say that it was a fairly original concept and the characters were believable and likable. The story was fun to read and interesting and I would love to read more about these sisters and their magical world.
January 22, 2019
I opened this book up because I was in a space where I just wanted something a little different than I had been reading. I AM SO GLAD I DID!!!
This was a quick moving story about discovering one's true self and looking beyond what we think is true. It's magic and mystery at it's finest. I was able to visualize what was written and was transported to a different place in my mind.
I read every single word that was written. I was so bummed when it was over because the second of the series does not appear to have been written yet (can someone please ask the author to work on that ;) )
This was a quick moving story about discovering one's true self and looking beyond what we think is true. It's magic and mystery at it's finest. I was able to visualize what was written and was transported to a different place in my mind.
I read every single word that was written. I was so bummed when it was over because the second of the series does not appear to have been written yet (can someone please ask the author to work on that ;) )
June 6, 2022
This is the first novel in The Curse Collectors series of new adult urban fantasy by Elizabeth Kirke. Three sisters inherit an antique shop from their aunt, but there is more to the shop, the aunt, and the sisters themselves than any of them could have guessed. The story is full of mystery and suspense, along with a bit of romance. I was driven to learn more about this world and these characters, and the pages flew by.
Although this story can be enjoyed on its own, many questions remain unanswered at the end, so I recommend reading the entire series in order.
I was given a free copy of this ebook by the author; I volunteered to provide an honest review.
Although this story can be enjoyed on its own, many questions remain unanswered at the end, so I recommend reading the entire series in order.
I was given a free copy of this ebook by the author; I volunteered to provide an honest review.
October 19, 2018
Excellent Read!
I really enjoyed this story. I loved how the story flowed and the odd happenings in the the shop. Rachel, Angie, and Jo have absolutely no idea what they are in for when they go to assess the shop that is left to them by their late aunt. Peter is really awesome as well and does his best to do what he he feels is right and to protect them. I loved how all my questions were answered as the story progressed. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I really enjoyed this story. I loved how the story flowed and the odd happenings in the the shop. Rachel, Angie, and Jo have absolutely no idea what they are in for when they go to assess the shop that is left to them by their late aunt. Peter is really awesome as well and does his best to do what he he feels is right and to protect them. I loved how all my questions were answered as the story progressed. I can’t wait to read the next book!
March 25, 2019
Magic, Curses and hint of romance
This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be the last. I loved it, devoured it in one sitting. Three sisters find out they have inherited their Aunts antique shop but all is not what it seems. The shop is a cover for cursed object and when a trunk curse the oldest sister Rachel its a race against time for Angie, Jo and Jake their Aunt Lydia's Apprentice to break the curse.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series
This is the first book I have read by this author but it won't be the last. I loved it, devoured it in one sitting. Three sisters find out they have inherited their Aunts antique shop but all is not what it seems. The shop is a cover for cursed object and when a trunk curse the oldest sister Rachel its a race against time for Angie, Jo and Jake their Aunt Lydia's Apprentice to break the curse.
Can't wait to read the next book in the series
January 30, 2019
I Loved It
I wasn't sure what to think when I started this book, but I got an unexpected surprise. It was really good. I love antiques, have always thought that they all had a unique story, a life that they lived before ending up in some second hand shop. This was a great book!
I wasn't sure what to think when I started this book, but I got an unexpected surprise. It was really good. I love antiques, have always thought that they all had a unique story, a life that they lived before ending up in some second hand shop. This was a great book!
September 28, 2019
Breaking the spell
Fun adventure of using rune stones and the adventures of spell breaking with a romance sprinkled into the story. It’s a book that introduces characters that you want to grow to know.
Fun adventure of using rune stones and the adventures of spell breaking with a romance sprinkled into the story. It’s a book that introduces characters that you want to grow to know.
March 22, 2021
Loved it!
This book was difficult to put down. I really enjoyed the mystery of the shop and the relationship between the three sisters & Peter. I’m torn between 4-5 stars- it’s not ground breaking literature, but I will definitely recommend it to my urban fantasy friends.
This book was difficult to put down. I really enjoyed the mystery of the shop and the relationship between the three sisters & Peter. I’m torn between 4-5 stars- it’s not ground breaking literature, but I will definitely recommend it to my urban fantasy friends.
March 6, 2022
It was fine
I guess that's why the 3 stars. I liked it well enough, but the writing was off, somehow. The author also head hops. A lot. Sometimes cycling through 4 points of view in as many paragraphs.
I guess that's why the 3 stars. I liked it well enough, but the writing was off, somehow. The author also head hops. A lot. Sometimes cycling through 4 points of view in as many paragraphs.
March 19, 2017
Carved in Cherry A Curse Collectors Novel Book One by Elizabeth Kirke
A fun magical read. I enjoyed Carved in Cherry, a story about Rune Casting and Breaking Curses. I loved the characters in this story. My favorites are the three sisters, Rachel, Angie and Jo. They all have great personalities and I admire the bond these sisters have with each other. I also enjoyed Peter's character. Peter is an apprentice Rune caster who is very charming.
A lot of strange things happen when they receive word that there Aunt has died and left them her shop. You will enjoy this magical read. Carved in Cherry will leave you plenty to think about with more surprises to come.
I give Carved in Cherry 4 stars for its fun magical read.
I would recommend this book to YA/Adults.
A fun magical read. I enjoyed Carved in Cherry, a story about Rune Casting and Breaking Curses. I loved the characters in this story. My favorites are the three sisters, Rachel, Angie and Jo. They all have great personalities and I admire the bond these sisters have with each other. I also enjoyed Peter's character. Peter is an apprentice Rune caster who is very charming.
A lot of strange things happen when they receive word that there Aunt has died and left them her shop. You will enjoy this magical read. Carved in Cherry will leave you plenty to think about with more surprises to come.
I give Carved in Cherry 4 stars for its fun magical read.
I would recommend this book to YA/Adults.
April 22, 2022
Slow start, 65% before they know they are Magic. But I want to read the next book.
May 31, 2022
A really fun read with engaging characters, plenty of mystery and lots to keep you guessing! And the cat, Gus….what’s he all about? Have a read and find out more!
March 6, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! Elizabeth had you wondering through it all. Runes and curses and dreams oh my! This was an all around great book. I really can't wait to read the next one. This would be suitable for teenagers if you don't mind the mild sex scene, it wasn't anything that kids nowadays don't already see on TV.
June 5, 2014
4.5 stars
So this was like Warehouse 13... but better
Song Choice: "Murder in the City" by the Avett Brothers, "Alone Together" by Fall Out Boy
First thoughts: so like i said already this is like Warehouse 13 but better. if you don't know what warehouse 13 it is a awesome sci-fi show, you should check it out, after checking out this book. So the thing that made me drop my rating just a bit is a very personal thing and i am trying to figure out myself but i think i know what it is but its a big deal.
Thoughts on plot: So i thought this was pretty unique and interesting to read about. It took me awhile to catch on what the little bit before each chapter was about, but i got it eventually ;) I liked the idea of the runes, but i think I wanted to learn even more about them, I feel in this book we were scratching the surface which i get it, and makes sense since it is...the first in a series... anyways there are a lot of unanswered questions that i wanted to be answered, and i am drooling for the next one so i can learn those secrets. I was pretty alright with the structure of the book, being that it was sort of third person limited...sort of. It jumped between four no five characters which normally that really bothers me because i feel like i get lost in the story but since they were centered in the same area so its okay with me. I didn't feel like i was being jerked around in other people's head or anything like that. Overall the story was interesting with lots of mysteries even for those who were supposed to know what was going on. The heat between Peter and Rachel was there, and I am still figuring out Ethan and Angie, we shall see. OH! So back to the five people pov thing, it made it really hard for me to decide who is this story was written for, and I am all for people having it about more than one character. But at the same time I felt a little stretched thin here and i was looking for two to focus in on, and I guess I had a hard time because I read an excerpt (which was awesome) but it was in Angie's POV so i immediately thought it was for her. but that is me. And im slightly insane...no i am.
Characters:
Rachel: So I felt this book was a little more for her than it was for the other sisters, but I mean it was for them all as well...ughhh whatever moving on. Rachel was the oldest sister and a history buff, she was a good balance of her sisters, part creative, part logical. i think that she was an interesting character and I look forward to seeing more from her. I can't say too much about her because well spoilers ;)
Jo: She was a peach! So fun and I felt so bad for her too :( I really hope that my gut feeling isn't right but i think there is something else about her, we get to see her and she is the fun sweet little sister who is really just a peach. I liked her and her adorable whims and what nots.
Angie: She was the logical sister that doesn't like anything but cold hard facts. I didn't find her annoying though because it was obvious she cared about her sisters and she was willing to do almost anything for them. She was a really good character, person, sister.
Peter: What a cutie. I wasn't sure if I should think of him as sort of geeky, or sort of like foot-bally with the muscles and what nots, so I mushed them and he was a combo of the two. I really liked him and i get that this was hard for him.
Ending: I need more. that is all.
For more Becca-ness go here: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
So this was like Warehouse 13... but better
Song Choice: "Murder in the City" by the Avett Brothers, "Alone Together" by Fall Out Boy
First thoughts: so like i said already this is like Warehouse 13 but better. if you don't know what warehouse 13 it is a awesome sci-fi show, you should check it out, after checking out this book. So the thing that made me drop my rating just a bit is a very personal thing and i am trying to figure out myself but i think i know what it is but its a big deal.
Thoughts on plot: So i thought this was pretty unique and interesting to read about. It took me awhile to catch on what the little bit before each chapter was about, but i got it eventually ;) I liked the idea of the runes, but i think I wanted to learn even more about them, I feel in this book we were scratching the surface which i get it, and makes sense since it is...the first in a series... anyways there are a lot of unanswered questions that i wanted to be answered, and i am drooling for the next one so i can learn those secrets. I was pretty alright with the structure of the book, being that it was sort of third person limited...sort of. It jumped between four no five characters which normally that really bothers me because i feel like i get lost in the story but since they were centered in the same area so its okay with me. I didn't feel like i was being jerked around in other people's head or anything like that. Overall the story was interesting with lots of mysteries even for those who were supposed to know what was going on. The heat between Peter and Rachel was there, and I am still figuring out Ethan and Angie, we shall see. OH! So back to the five people pov thing, it made it really hard for me to decide who is this story was written for, and I am all for people having it about more than one character. But at the same time I felt a little stretched thin here and i was looking for two to focus in on, and I guess I had a hard time because I read an excerpt (which was awesome) but it was in Angie's POV so i immediately thought it was for her. but that is me. And im slightly insane...no i am.
Characters:
Rachel: So I felt this book was a little more for her than it was for the other sisters, but I mean it was for them all as well...ughhh whatever moving on. Rachel was the oldest sister and a history buff, she was a good balance of her sisters, part creative, part logical. i think that she was an interesting character and I look forward to seeing more from her. I can't say too much about her because well spoilers ;)
Jo: She was a peach! So fun and I felt so bad for her too :( I really hope that my gut feeling isn't right but i think there is something else about her, we get to see her and she is the fun sweet little sister who is really just a peach. I liked her and her adorable whims and what nots.
Angie: She was the logical sister that doesn't like anything but cold hard facts. I didn't find her annoying though because it was obvious she cared about her sisters and she was willing to do almost anything for them. She was a really good character, person, sister.
Peter: What a cutie. I wasn't sure if I should think of him as sort of geeky, or sort of like foot-bally with the muscles and what nots, so I mushed them and he was a combo of the two. I really liked him and i get that this was hard for him.
Ending: I need more. that is all.
For more Becca-ness go here: http://theviolethourbookreviews.wordp...
June 6, 2014
Simply put, I loved Carved in Cherry! I already loved Kirke's More Than Magic series, and had high hopes that I would love this series as well. I'm thrilled she did not disappoint. But this is not just some copycat of her other series. The Curse Collectors series is completely unique, yet the writing is consistent with what I've come to expect with Kirke.
Here we follow along with sisters Rachel, Angie, and Jo as they embark upon dealing with the antique shop they've inherited from their aunt. But this is no ordinary antique shop. It's more than they bargained for and nothing there is simple. And it comes with its own resident cutie and a very perceptive cat. It's told in third person, and that worked perfectly with the story.
I must say that this was such a wonderfully suspenseful book. I didn't want to put it down. Every chapter felt like it had its own mystery. I'm not going to spoil things, so I won't give away specifics. But I was completely pulled into this story, and felt on pins and needles wondering about all the connections, fearing for unexpected consequences, hoping for new relationships, and worrying over how it would all come together. All of this was excellently written and I never felt a dull moment.
The characters themselves were fantastic. They each brought a unique perspective and perception to the story. It was great to see how these three sisters worked together, yet themselves were very different. Then there's Peter, who is really caught between a rock and a hard place, and I loved how strong yet vulnerable Kirke made him. There's also a bit of romance going on, but the way Kirke developed it... Wow! What a fascinating twist on progressing a relationship!
What more can I say? I loved Carved in Cherry. It is suspenseful, magical, and a little creepy. It also has the tenderness of family, the sweetness of new romance, and the excitement of mind-blowing discovery. Kirke not only writes well, but creates such amazing paranormal worlds with great attention to detail. This is a new favorite of mine, and I'm super excited about the rest of this series.
Here we follow along with sisters Rachel, Angie, and Jo as they embark upon dealing with the antique shop they've inherited from their aunt. But this is no ordinary antique shop. It's more than they bargained for and nothing there is simple. And it comes with its own resident cutie and a very perceptive cat. It's told in third person, and that worked perfectly with the story.
I must say that this was such a wonderfully suspenseful book. I didn't want to put it down. Every chapter felt like it had its own mystery. I'm not going to spoil things, so I won't give away specifics. But I was completely pulled into this story, and felt on pins and needles wondering about all the connections, fearing for unexpected consequences, hoping for new relationships, and worrying over how it would all come together. All of this was excellently written and I never felt a dull moment.
The characters themselves were fantastic. They each brought a unique perspective and perception to the story. It was great to see how these three sisters worked together, yet themselves were very different. Then there's Peter, who is really caught between a rock and a hard place, and I loved how strong yet vulnerable Kirke made him. There's also a bit of romance going on, but the way Kirke developed it... Wow! What a fascinating twist on progressing a relationship!
What more can I say? I loved Carved in Cherry. It is suspenseful, magical, and a little creepy. It also has the tenderness of family, the sweetness of new romance, and the excitement of mind-blowing discovery. Kirke not only writes well, but creates such amazing paranormal worlds with great attention to detail. This is a new favorite of mine, and I'm super excited about the rest of this series.
March 24, 2025
An awesome start to a new series from Elizabeth Kirke. I loved her More Than Magic series and while rummaging around for information on the third book I was pleasantly surprised to discover this newly released gem. This book was well-written and once I got into it was utterly impossible to put down. I love the writing style and how each character is clearly defined. The third person omniscient perspective took a bit of getting used to as most books I've been reading lately are in first person but being able to glimpse the thoughts and feelings of all the main characters was great and I loved getting to know them all. The sisters were great but I think Rachel was my favourite character out of all of them. History is cool - good for her being a history geek! Peter was awesome and I loved how he kept trying to do his best even though he was thrown in the deep end. I also liked that he admitted that he was just an apprentice and that he was in over his head with a lot of things - so much so that he had resorted to getting advice from Gus, the mysteriously smart cat. As I was reading the book I kept seeing the poor guy running around tearing his hair out trying to babysit three curious women in a huge antique shop filled with dangerous cursed objects all without being able to tell them what was really going on. The romance between him and Rachel was really cute too even though they're both kind of shy and awkward. I also loved how the story was really creative and entertaining. It was a good mix of humour, suspense, romance, danger and excitement. It didn't take long until I was quickly absorbed into the world of rune-casters and now I can't wait for the next book to find out what will happen next. I'd recommend picking this book up if you're looking for a great new-adult level fantasy read to get lost in for a while. I'd also highly recommend the first two books in Elizabeth Kirke's More Than Magic series - they're great.
June 23, 2014
Rachel, Angie, and Jo are your average sisters. All three of them are new adults, trying to build careers or finish school, etc. Everything changes when they are informed of their aunt's passing. They barely knew her, but now are the owners of her antique store. Upon arriving, they meet an unknown employee named Peter, and the knowledge that the store is not quite what they had expected. Everything in it is cursed. They enter the world of rune-casters, magic, and the occasional bit of romance. When one of them is cursed, Peter must teach them a magic that he hardly knows.
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Okay. Let me start off by saying that I absolutely loved this book. The characters were lovely, and the plot was fast-paced and unique. The premise of the story is really why I bought it. It isn't like anything that I'd heard of before, and it certainly did not disappoint.
The story is written in third-person omniscient p.o.v. and sometimes it would switch to different character's thoughts and actions without warning, which took me a little bit of time to re-read and catch up on. This is the main reason that I rated it 4.5/5 stars. Otherwise, there wasn't really a big problem that stuck out to me.
Other than that, I fell in love with the story and I cannot say that enough. I seriously can't even wait for the next one to come out in December!
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Okay. Let me start off by saying that I absolutely loved this book. The characters were lovely, and the plot was fast-paced and unique. The premise of the story is really why I bought it. It isn't like anything that I'd heard of before, and it certainly did not disappoint.
The story is written in third-person omniscient p.o.v. and sometimes it would switch to different character's thoughts and actions without warning, which took me a little bit of time to re-read and catch up on. This is the main reason that I rated it 4.5/5 stars. Otherwise, there wasn't really a big problem that stuck out to me.
Other than that, I fell in love with the story and I cannot say that enough. I seriously can't even wait for the next one to come out in December!
December 27, 2022
I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Kirke’s. Her More than Magic series awakened my love affair with YA. Kirke’s writing has a way of drawing you in and wrapping you up all cozy and tight from beginning to end. You will not want to put this book down. Those in her inner circle refer to her as #sneakilyobvious because she puts in all in her books. You, as the reader, just need to uncover it. Elizabeth Kirke’s books are the sort that you can read again and again with new discoveries each time. The woman is a GENIUS!
I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Creepy horror music rolling in my head; waiting for what lurked around every corner and then sighing with relief when nothing was there – most of the time. It is not a creepy horror tale but more so a suspenseful mystery. It hosts quite the characters as well. Rachel, Angie and Jo have inherited the antique store, the mysterious Peter who runs it, and Gus the fat cat, who appears to be more than just a cat. The Shaw girls are in for more than they bargained for when they arrive at Lydia’s Curiosities. Little do they know that their past and future is about to be brought to light as the power within them is discovered.
This book weaves together mystery, suspense, romance and magic as only Elizabeth Kirke can. Fans of the MtM series are sure to fall in love with her new series as well.
I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Creepy horror music rolling in my head; waiting for what lurked around every corner and then sighing with relief when nothing was there – most of the time. It is not a creepy horror tale but more so a suspenseful mystery. It hosts quite the characters as well. Rachel, Angie and Jo have inherited the antique store, the mysterious Peter who runs it, and Gus the fat cat, who appears to be more than just a cat. The Shaw girls are in for more than they bargained for when they arrive at Lydia’s Curiosities. Little do they know that their past and future is about to be brought to light as the power within them is discovered.
This book weaves together mystery, suspense, romance and magic as only Elizabeth Kirke can. Fans of the MtM series are sure to fall in love with her new series as well.
August 13, 2016
I will admit it. I am addicted to Elizabeth Kirke's MTM series and came into this new series with very high expectations. I am embarrassed to admit that I feared that she could not deliver the real to me characters that make her MTM series one of my all time favorites. I should know better. Carved in Cherry was phenomenal. Set in an antique store the sisters inherited from their aunt, it is filled with magic, history, and the unknown. Add in the mix a cat who may not actually be a cat, a resident hottie, and weird dreams that may not be real and I was glued to my kindle. While this was a complete story and does not have any evil cliff hangers to make you "curse" Elizabeth, not all answers have been revealed and I can not wait until the next book comes out. Unlike her MTM series, this book does have a bit more heat, just so ya know ;) .
July 27, 2014
Fantastic! Follow 3 sisters through and adventure they never would have seen coming. When their Aunt Lydia dies, they inherit her antique store. The all get together to sort through and sell the place. But once they get there, they get surprise after surprise! They aren't dealing with simple antiques, but a family inheritance they never new was even possible! This is such a great story that you just sit down and get lost in it. The characters are so great you instantly love them all but definitely have a favorite. I can't wait for book 2 In the Curse Collector's Series! and to see if any of my theories are right! Another fantastic world to love by the amazing Elizabeth Kirke!
September 4, 2018
Elizabeth has created a realistic world and fantastic characters. A family secret, new beginnings, a love interest, all that and more in this fantastic book.
Three sister meet after months apart to check out an antique shop that has been left to them. The shop as well as their family is full of secrets. As they employ the shop one thing is perfectly clear, they were not ready for this new world.
I would highly recommend this book. It is written extremely well and it will draw you in. I found it was difficult to put the book down, and the ending came way too soon. So dive headfirst into the world of magic and live.
Three sister meet after months apart to check out an antique shop that has been left to them. The shop as well as their family is full of secrets. As they employ the shop one thing is perfectly clear, they were not ready for this new world.
I would highly recommend this book. It is written extremely well and it will draw you in. I found it was difficult to put the book down, and the ending came way too soon. So dive headfirst into the world of magic and live.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2014
This is my kind of book! I loved Carved in Cherry and couldn't put it down until I was done. I'm anticipating the next book, Wrought Iron Roses! In this book three sisters inherit their late great aunt's antique shop. When they finally get there, things aren't as easy as they thought it would be. The antique shop is overflowing with items, too many to sort through in a week, and it also comes with a young man, an employee living there. Interesting, magical, things are happening; you won't be bored with this book!
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