Cursed by the Crimson Moon

by Ava Zoe

Two men. One curse. She refuses to choose.

When Lena learns she’s destined to be the next sacrifice to the forest’s curse, she refuses to accept her fate. Desperate to uncover the truth and shatter the Crimson Moon’s grip on her village, she ventures into the forbidden forest. Beside her stands Calder, her fiercely loyal best friend, and Alaric, the cursed Wolf who carries the weight of the village’s darkest secrets.

As ancient trials test their strength and trust, the trio must navigate a web of betrayal, love, and shadowy forces determined to see them fail. But breaking the curse comes at a cost—and the forest isn’t willing to let them leave unscathed.

Will Lena’s strength be enough to challenge the curse and claim a future of her own design?

Cursed by the Crimson Moon is a heart-pounding journey of love, sacrifice, and the battle against fate.

In this steamy wolves dark fairytale, discover a why-choose fantasy romance with dark magic, forbidden love, and fate that collide under the crimson moon. Perfect for fans of Grimm's Fairytales, From Blood and Ash, Serpent & Dove, and A Court of Thorns and Roses.

313 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 10, 2025

Reviews

[Jessica Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dark and Enchanting Reimagining of Red Riding Hood

"Cursed by the Crimson Moon" is a beautifully crafted retelling of Red Riding Hood, infused with magic, mystery, and romance. Ava Zoe does an incredible job of building a rich, immersive world that feels both darkly enchanting and utterly captivating. The characters were well-developed, and I especially loved the dynamic between Lena, Calder, and Alaric as they navigated the dangers of the cursed forest.

The spice was the perfect blend—soft yet sizzling—adding to the chemistry without overshadowing the emotional depth of the story. While there were moments where the pacing felt a bit uneven, the overall journey was gripping and well worth the read. If you love fairytale retellings with a touch of darkness and slow-burning passion, this one is a must-read!

[Avasha Lochan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and the unique Retelling of red riding it. This book starts of slow and slightly confusing but eventually builds up into a fast pace ,heart pumping journey. I love the way the curse was physically brought to life alongside the main characters in the book. I love the character development throughout the book as well , We get to see a strong FMC and not 1 but 2 MMC's.

Another seller for me is the amount of Spice in this book 🤭 It's a chefs kiss 💋. THE FACT THAT WE GET A 1 FEMALE 2 MALES SCENE ,I was absolutely engrossed with this ....I even went back to read it a second time 🤭🤭🤭.

The Spice level is around a 3.5 chilly pepper 🌶 but having this Spice really finishes this book of as a real page turner.

[Brooklyn L. Wolves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ava Zoe's Cursed by the Crimson Moon is an absolute triumph! From the first page, I was completely captivated by Lena's unwavering determination and the dark, enchanting world Zoe has created. The premise is instantly gripping: a young woman destined for sacrifice, determined to break the curse that holds her village captive. The addition of Calder, her steadfast best friend, and Alaric, the brooding, cursed wolf, creates a delicious tension and a compelling love triangle (or rather, love shape!) that had me hooked.

Zoe masterfully weaves together elements of dark fairytale, forbidden romance, and high-stakes adventure. The trials Lena, Calder, and Alaric face are genuinely challenging, and I was constantly on the edge of my seat, wondering if they would survive. The plot twists are expertly placed, keeping the suspense high and the pages turning late into the night.

What truly sets Cursed by the Crimson Moon apart is the depth of its characters. Lena is a strong, resourceful protagonist you can't help but root for. Calder's unwavering loyalty is incredibly endearing, and Alaric's tortured soul and simmering intensity make him utterly irresistible. The dynamic between the three of them is complex, steamy, and emotionally charged. The "why-choose" element is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, adding another layer of intrigue and passion.

The writing is lush and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the forbidden forest and the dangers that lurk within. The world-building is excellent, creating a believable and captivating magical system. Fans of Grimm's Fairytales, From Blood and Ash, Serpent & Dove, and A Court of Thorns and Roses will undoubtedly devour this book.

Cursed by the Crimson Moon is more than just a fantasy romance; it's a story about fighting for your destiny, the power of love, and the sacrifices we make for those we care about. I highly recommend this book and eagerly await the next installment!

[Kez Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Every ten years under the crimson moon a sacrifice must be given to the forest as tribute for the terrifying legacy of the wolf. Lena is the strongest in the village and chosen to appease the curse, but she won't go without a fight.
Determined to help her village but understand the curse to break it, she ventures into the forest to learn its secrets. Calder her loyal friend is by her side, and they meet Alaric, a stranger in the woods, and together they hope to end the cycle.
This is a dark fairytale retelling of red riding hood, where they battle curses, face shadowy threats, confront themselves and challenge fate.
I enjoyed all the mystery and the slow burn passion, I loved Lina's bravery and determination, and her chemistry with Alaric and Calder.
This is a spicy retelling with a lot of intrigue and emotion.

🐺 "If anyone has a chance of breaking the curse, it's her"

🐺 "Whatever you face in those woods, hold onto yourself. Don't let the darkness make you forget who you are"

[Krystal Mire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this book! Strong independent FMC who throughout the whole book showed perseverance and determination. Lena was a badass! Made me think along the lines of you can do anything you set your mind to you just have to take that first step and boy did she. Dreamy MMCs what more can I say about them. Both Calder and Alaric had me dreaming of ways to jump into this tale myself. I loved Greta she reminded me of my grandmother a little. The retelling of the Red Riding Hood story itself was very well done and I was captivated until the very end. I was along for the ride the whole way and let’s just say the ending without spoilers surprised me. Wasn’t expecting it to go that way. But I liked it 😍

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books is absolutely fantastic!

This book is a why-choose dark red riding hood retelling. It is a fantastic retelling that keeps you hooked throughout the whole story. It has the right amount of romance, spice, action, and thrill to it.

This book has a fantastic plot that kept me reading and I did not want to put the book down! I finished the book in a little over 24 hours!

The book also has fantastic characters that develop and grow a lot throughout the book and leave you rooting for them. The book also has great secondary characters that are integral to the story and help to move the plot along.

[Elayni Kinsey · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really liked the idea of the story, but a lack of details left me wanting. I wish I knew more about the characters. I didn't understand the relationships the FMC developed. It felt like she went from kissing a guy she grew up with to sleeping with another she just "couldn't resist" in a span of hours. I wanted to know more.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lena learns she is to be the next sacrifice to keep the wolf at bay. But when she begins to question everything, she learns more than she thought she would. Having two men by her side that both care for her and want her to succeed for their own reasons, the three of them must work together. Can they break the curse of the wolf? And will the three of them survive until the end?

I very much enjoyed this book. I am very picky with retellings of fairytales but thought this one was very well done. Red Riding Hood is one of my favorites, and I'm very glad I received an ARC of this story. I look forward to seeing others thoughts on this.

[Nichole Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

BEAUTIFUL reimagining of Little Red Riding Hood! I personally love when a book “gets to the point” and from the very first page, we’re instantly transported into the story and hooked. Ava Zoe doesn’t waste time with minute details that detail from pushing the plot along which is refreshing. Plus— the sprinkle of spice was a nice touch!! Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a fantasy adventure that can be a stand alone book!

[Laura Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book😍 the spice was so good! Lena was such a good FMC and she definitely did what she needed to do and got it done! Give me another story that Ava Zoe tells and I’m all in for it!

[Menna Hassan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some girls run from curses. Lena walked into the forest and made it hers.”
I’m not okay. I haven’t been okay since the crimson moon rose and Lena said, “Not today, fate.” 🌕✨
From the first page, this book had me feral.
It’s giving: dark fairytale energy, swoon-worthy chaos, and just the right touch of spice and soul.
Two men. One curse. And a girl who refuses to be anyone’s sacrifice.
Lena is the kind of heroine I’d follow into a haunted forest barefoot, she’s sharp, soft, stubborn, and so full of fight. 🩸🌲
She doesn’t ask for permission. She doesn’t break easy. She chooses, even when it costs her everything.
And the men??
Calder — sunshine with a sword ☀️⚔️, protective in a way that heals, not suffocates.
Alaric — the cursed wolf with grief in his bones and a growl in his throat. 🐺💔 If brooding was a sport, he’d win gold.
I couldn’t pick. Lena doesn’t. And thank the moon for that. 🌙
The three of them?
It’s giving found family meets tension-filled fairytale, with glances that linger and touches that spark and vibes. So many vibes.
Yes, it’s got heat, but it’s the kind of burn that builds, that aches, that means something. 🔥
What made me fall the hardest?
It’s not just romance—it’s resistance. It’s about rewriting your fate, loving without apology, and stepping into your own power even when everything’s falling apart.
The writing? Dreamy as a blood-red sky. ❤️‍🔥
Every word feels like it was carved from moonlight and shadow, soft, dangerous, magnetic. The forest breathes. The magic sings. The danger dances.
If you love:
• Spicy fairytales with bite and bloom 🌹
• A cursed boy who deserves softness and rage 🖤
• Best friends who hold your heart like a blade and a balm 🗡️♥️
• Ancient trials and forbidden forests 🌒
• "Why-choose" slow burns that delight and destroy
• Girls who say “I’ll save myself, thanks”
Then Cursed by the Crimson Moon will wrap around your soul and howl with it.
I’m obsessed. I stayed up past 3AM. I cried. I blushed. I stared at the ceiling whispering “what now??”
To @avazoe.author 🥰
You didn’t just give us a book. You gave us a fever dream laced in thorns and longing. Thank you for the ARC and the emotional damage.
Now if you’ll excuse me… I’ll be running through shadowy woods, waiting for book two and whispering both their names.

[Dorthe Jespersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

En skæbnesvanger forbandelse hænger over en lille landsby der i årtier har frygtet den forbandelse der siges at være umulig at bryde.
Hver 10 år ved rød måne, må en udvalgt indbygger ofre sig for byen og dens indbyggeres overlevelse. Kun ved en ofring vil den store stygge ulv være tilfreds.
De gamle sagn om faren der lure i skoven, bringer Lena dybere ind i skovens hemmeligheder som ingen før har turde udforske.

Men Lena er noget ganske særligt, og har altid været betaget af skoven.
I en hytte der rummer hemmeligheder, bor Lena's bedstemor som viser sig at have den viden som Lena skal bruge for at bryde den forbandelse alle er bange for.
Fast besluttet på at bryde forbandelsen om den store stygge ulv, bliver Lena udvalgt til at bryde forbandelsen.

En mystisk fremmede kommer frem af mørket og snart bliver Lena fanget i et spind af dødbringende løgne, korruption, begær og kærlighed da forbandelsen viser sig at være dybere forbundet til hende end hun gik og troede.

Da hun bliver forelsket i den mystiske og farlige Alaric forsegles hver deres skæbne til hinanden og Lena er fast besluttet på at redde Alaric for en skæbne han ikke selv har valgt.
Men da Calder, som hun i årevis har kendt forsøger at redde hende fra hvad han tror er hendes død, forelsker han sig i hende og vil gøre sit til for også at beskytte hende mod Alaric.

Vil Lena være stærk og klog nok til at bryde forbandelsen. Og vil kærligheden til Alaric og Calder være nok til at hun kan acceptere hendes skæbne.



"REVIEW IN ENGLISH"

A fateful curse hangs over a small village that has feared the curse for decades, which is said to be impossible to break.
Every 10 years, at the red moon, a chosen inhabitant must be sacrifice for the survival of the town and its inhabitants.
Only with such a sacrifice will the big bad wolf be satisfied.
The old legends of the danger that lurks in the forest lead Lena deeper into the secrets of the forest that no one has dared to explore before.

But Lena is something very special, and has always been fascinated by the forest.
In a cabin that holds secrets, lives Lena's grandmother, who turns out to have the knowledge that Lena needs to break the curse that everyone fears.
Determined to break the curse of the big bad wolf, Lena is chosen to break the curse.

A mysterious stranger emerges from the darkness and soon Lena is caught in a web of deadly lies, corruption, lust and love as the curse turns out to be deeper than she thought.

When she falls in love with the mysterious and dangerous Alaric, their fates are sealed and Lena is determined to save Alaric from a fate he did not choose.
But when Calder, whom she has known for years, tries to save her from what he believes is her death, he falls in love with her and will do his part to protect her from Alaric as well.

Will Lena be strong and wise enough to break the curse. And will her love for Alaric and Calder be enough for her to accept her fate?




"READER NOTE IN BOTH ENGLISH AND DANISH"

The tale of Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf takes a whole new turn, Cursed by the Grimson Moon, my first book as an ACR reader written in a historical angle of Dark Fantasy and romance. Ava Zoe, has the ability to write grippingly and filled with plots throughout the book. As a reader, I found Cursed by the Grimson Moon a bit long-winded, but because it has Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf, but also as its own independent story, the book is a gripping tale of love, fate and the desire to solve the mystery that can cost innocent people their lives. I was contacted to be an ARC Reader on Cursed by the Grimson Moon, therefore my review will be in both English and Danish.

Cursed by the Grimson Moon 4 out of 5 stars
Spizy 2 out of 5

‐-------‐-----------------***------


Eventyret om Rødhætte og ulven tager en helt ny drejning, Cursed by the Chimson Moon, min første bog som ACR reader skrevet i en historisk vinkel, Dark Fantasy and romance.

Ava Zoe, har evnen til at skrive gribende og fyldt med plots hele vejen igennem bogen.
Jeg fandt som læser Cursed by the Chrimson Moon en smule langtrukken men fordi den har rødhætte og ulven over sig, dog også som sin egen selvstændig historie, er bogen en gribende fortælling om kærlighed, skæbne og higen efter at løse den gåde der kan koste uskyldige mennesker deres liv.

Jeg blev kontaktet, for at være ARC Reader på Cursed by the Chrimson Moon, derfor vil mit review være på både engelsk og dansk.

Cursed by the Grimson Moon
4 ud af 5 stjerner
Spizy 2 ud af 5

[Kaitlyn Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A dark retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, Cursed by the Crimson Moon transports readers to a village trapped under an ancient curse, surrounded by an enchanted forest filled with danger and mystery. At its heart is Lena, a young woman believed to be the strongest in the village and the required next sacrifice to the Crimson Moon. But rather than resigning herself to fate, she sets out to break the curse, accompanied by her loyal friend Calder and the enigmatic Alaric, the cursed wolf who may hold the answers she seeks.

One of the book’s strongest aspects is its immersive world-building. Zoe crafts a vivid, almost tangible setting, bringing the dark magic of the forest and the weight of the village’s curse to life. The emotional depth between the main characters is another highlight, with a well-balanced mix of tension, vulnerability, and spice that adds layers to their relationships.

However, the pacing of the story is uneven. After a slow start, some sections feel drawn out—particularly the repeated reliance on seeking information about the curse—while other moments, especially crucial plot developments, are rushed. Lena’s character arc also has some inconsistencies; while she is positioned as the strongest in her village, her moments of strength are often overshadowed by hesitation and self-doubt. While doubts and hesitation fit with a coming-of-age journey, in my opinion, there is too much that makes her development feel unsteady. For me, a strong FMC does not have as much reliance on the MMCs.

Overall, Cursed by the Crimson Moon is an intriguing dark fantasy retelling that will appeal to readers who enjoy lush world-building, forbidden alliances, and a touch of romance. While the pacing and character depth may not work for everyone, fans of atmospheric, slow-burn fantasy will likely find much to enjoy.

I received an ARC copy, and the author asked me to give my honest opinion of the book.

[Sabrina Mordini · Rating 4 out of 5]

A village hidden in the forest, a curse demanding sacrifice, and a girl determined to protect what she loves—these are the foundations of this atmospheric retelling of Red Riding Hood.

I really enjoyed the characters, especially how their strengths and flaws were intricately woven into the story. Their growth felt organic, making their struggles and choices all the more compelling. The forest itself was almost a character, its dark, mysterious presence pulling me into the narrative and heightening the sense of isolation and inevitability.

While there are wolf shifters, this isn’t your typical shifter story—there’s no pack hierarchy, no fated mates, just a cursed man, a determined woman, and another man whose presence complicates everything. The MFM dynamic isn’t just about romance; it’s deeply tied to the curse itself, shaping the plot and driving the tension almost until the very end.

The writing is immersive and atmospheric, capturing the tension and mystery that surround the curse. Told in third-person POV, the story offers a comprehensive view of the shifting dynamics between characters, making every emotion, conflict, and sacrifice even more impactful. The pacing builds masterfully toward the inevitable, making the reader feel the relentless passage of time and the weight of the approaching doom.

A haunting, beautifully written tale that lingers even after the final page.

[Lexi Carranza · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love a fairy tale/folk lore retelling. I love that Zoe went with the Little Red Riding Hood. I always loved retellings of this story. I've also loved how it tends to be a coming of age story. However, Zoe took a different approach with this one. This one gave me slightly dystopian vibes. We have a council that follows traditions out of fear, requiring a sacrifice every 10 years. It's not until our FMC that we see that challenged. Her goal is noble tho, she seeks to end a curse not for herself but for the village and men she comes to love.

There were some frustrations I had through the book. One was a lack of actual timeline. I think keeping track of how long they had to break the curse would have added to the intensity. Another frustration I had was the characters. They took a while to evolve. They liked to bicker and argue too much for me, but it also added to them. They were all fighting inner emotions throughout the book. The last bit of the book made the journey worth it. One more frustration I had was the constant running in circles in the beginning. I just didn't understand why we had to rehash things over and over.

Overall I enjoyed the read and the different spin Zoe put on a classic fairy tale.

[HaukNest Booktok · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lena and Calder are determined to end the centuries-long curse that has plagued the woods surrounding their village. Every ten years, a sacrifice is chosen to appease the Wolf, a creature who protects the villagers from the evils lurking in the forest. This time, Lena has been chosen.

But instead of accepting her fate, Lena decides to find a way to break the curse. Calder, unwilling to let her face the danger alone, vows to help her.

As their journey unfolds, they learn that the Wolf is no mere animal—he is Alaric, a cursed being bound to the Crimson Moon, which compels him to demand the sacrifice every decade.

Together, Lena, Calder, and Alaric must decide whether they can break the curse—or if the dark forces lurking in the woods will decide their fate for them.

The spice, world building, and character development in this story were everything I needed in this fractured fairytale. Ava did an amazing job creating these characters and taking a well-known story and turning it into something new!

Although I was quickly drawn into the storyline and characters, it did feel a bit rushed at times. I would have loved to have more details with some parts of the story, however it was a refreshingly quick and easy read if that is what you are looking for.

[NinaInkdawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do we find in front of us in this wonderful retelling of Little Red Riding Hood? A village in the forest, a curse that requires sacrifice and a girl truly determined to protect what she loves. I really liked the characters, I loved the way in which their strengths and at the same time their flaws were combined in the narration of the story. In this book we face The growth and their struggles and choices that make this book truly intriguing and compelling. One thing that will tie you to the book? The forest. It seems like a character in itself, dark that drags you with it. This is a novel why choose. The MFM dynamic is not about the romantic aspect but also about The Curse that gives tension to the story and also to the reading. The story is told in the third person and gives a vision of the dynamics between the characters, making every emotion but also every sacrifice even more decisive. The pace develops in a truly unique way and believe me that even after some time this novel and this story will remain in your memory.. Vote 5 ♾️

[Audrey Brookshire · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this retelling of Red Riding Hood! The fresh take on the classic fairy tale kept me hooked from start to finish. The main female character (MFC) was everything I wanted in a protagonist—strong, resourceful, and incredibly likable, without any of the whininess that can sometimes detract from characters in similar stories. It was refreshing to see a character who took charge of her fate and wasn’t passive in the face of danger.

The relationships in the book were also a highlight. Whether it was the dynamic between the MFC and other key characters or the evolving connections throughout the plot, they felt genuine and well-developed. It was easy to get invested in these relationships, and they added so much depth to the story.

Overall, this book was a fantastic read! The pacing was spot-on, and I found myself entertained throughout the entire journey. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good twist on a classic fairy tale with strong characters and captivating relationships.

[The_neurospicy_bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read

Another amazing retelling by this author. It is so unique and that's what has made me fall in love with this author's work. It starts with a very impactful poem that creates intrigue and excitement for the first chapter. Then the first chapter creates a combination of tension and suspense beautifully intertwined with each other that you are hooked. The FMC is strong, opinionated, doesn't let anyone decide her fate but herself and I love that. Her best friend is a golden retriever with a twist and takes you on a rollercoaster of a ride with your emotions. The Wolf, is such a well written character. He is strong, grumpy, fierce, dark, mysterious and morally grey. The why choose element is perfect. It is so complex, so intense, and the road to get there is anything but smooth. If you love fairy tale retellings and are looking for something dark and a version of the story you have never read before, then I highly recommend this. I laughed, I cried and in some parts was so angry with the characters but that's because the author has you completely invested in them. Cannot recommend this book enough.

[Horromantasy Book Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ Book Review ✨

Cursed by the Crimson Moon was a fast-paced, steamy fantasy romance with a dark fairytale feel. I really enjoyed the strong-willed FMC and the overall premise of breaking a deadly curse. The red riding hood retelling, dark magic, and high-stakes trials kept me turning the pages!

That being said, I did feel like some parts were rushed and repetitive-especially the constant fighting between the two MMCs, which got a little tiring after a while. The spice was sprinkled throughout, but some moments felt random and rushed rather than woven seamlessly into the story. I think the plot could have been expanded in some areas instead of relying on filler scenes.

Overall, this was still an entertaining, fast read with plenty of tension, romance, and dark magic. If you love why-choose fantasy, fierce heroines, and cursed wolves, you’ll want to check this one out! 4.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

[Books4Movies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely obsessed with this book—Cursed by the Crimson Moon had me hooked from the first eerie whisper in the woods!

This is everything I crave in a dark fantasy romance... gorgeous, moody worldbuilding, a fierce FMC who refuses to accept her fate, and TWO love interests that are both dangerously swoony in their own right. The “why choose” dynamic was so well done. It didn’t feel forced at all, just natural and full of slow-burn tension that kept me flipping pages way past bedtime.

I loved the haunting twist on Red Riding Hood. It’s familiar enough to feel nostalgic, but Ava Zoe spins it into something totally fresh and wildly compelling. The spice? Chef’s kiss. Just enough to scorch the page but never at the expense of the story. And the emotional stakes? Whew. My heart still hurts in the best way.

Dark magic, ancient curses, forbidden love ... this book has it all. Can’t wait to read what’s next in the Twisted Curses collection!

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so good! Thank you Ava Zoe for this book and I can't wait to read more from you.

Every 10 years a sacrifice needs to be made to protect the village. They picked the strongest most capable person for the sacrifice. They chose Lena and she wasn't having it she was going to do everything she could to try to break the curse so that she doesn't have to die.

In the story you have Calder Lena's best friend growing up and someone who she may have romantic feelings for and you have Alaric who is trapped in the woods by the curse. It's a race against the clock as all three of them need to try to work together to break the curse before the crimson Moon comes. Will they be able to break the curse in time or with their stubborn personalities make it impossible.

This is a why choose Romance. I really enjoyed Lena's character because she never gave up on what she believed in and she kept pushing forward even though she was scared. I'm not going to lie Calder got on my nerves about halfway through the book because of his attitude. I really liked Alaric and felt bad for him. I would recommend this book to a friend.

[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Retellings can be tough for my brain. It wants to keep to the original. This was a good one, It did start out reminding me of Red Riding Hood, and I will admit I did picture Shiloh as Aleric.

this is my first book by Ava, I did win it in a giveaway, and I am glad I did. I am not super critical of books. There are very few that I don't enjoy. I am not always a fan of 3rd person. but this one I was able to stick with. The way she wrote from all sides was helpful, focusing on how each experienced a situation.

I will say that Lena's swift change from innocent girl with a boy she knew all her life to almost immediately jumping a stranger threw me off a bit. I was so focused on the story then it just was bam, gigity, now back to the curse.

overall, I liked it and will probably check out her other books.

[Spicy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank. you to Order of the Bookish and to Ava Zoe for sending me this eARC to review!!

Wow! This book was SO incredible! I was hooked from the poem in the beginning! It is a dark Little Red Riding Hood retelling, and it is done perfectly!

Every decade, a sacrifice must be made to safeguard the village. The strongest and most capable individual is chosen for this fate. This time, they selected Lena—but she refused to accept it. Determined to survive, she vowed to do whatever it took to break the curse and escape her destined death.

This book has it all - a cursed village. Hot broody men. A strong FMC. Just the right amount of spice. It is a why-choose romance, and man! It's a good one! Cannot recommend this book enough!!

[Elina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I can say I loved this one...The descriptions of the forest and the mystery that surrounds it, I would easily and willingly get lost in it... This is a dark, atmospheric and enchanting story, that draws the reader in a mysterious world from the very beginning. The building of the characters is also very dynamic.
I liked how strong and brave Lena was, the way she wanted to find a way to brake the curse to save herself and her village. I loved how loyal and affectionate Calder was and how irresistibly dark and attractive Alaric was.

The way Ava Zoe writes is poetic and enchanting making this Red Riding Hood retelling a story that everyone must read!

"To break the curse, one heart must see The man and beast both."

[Veronica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was not what I expected from a fairy tale retelling, and that made me very happy! The author took some base elements from the original story, but then built a whole world, plot, backstory and made it their own. I could see the elements used- like the red cloak, and that there was a wolf in the forest, but beyond that it was all of the authors making. This book was very well written. It’s not full of spice, and while it had romance in it, it’s more subtle. I can only think of 3 or 4 short spicy scenes in the book, so in would rate this as a low spice book. It does present a why choose element, which j absolutely love. The story got better the longer I read, and I greatly enjoyed the book overall. I would read a sequel if one was written.

[Maggie Gilfillan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautifully written! The story keeps you engaged and wanting more with every chapter you finish. It definitely fits the vibe for a dark retelling of little red riding hood with a little bit of spice added in!

The characters are amazing together. You can really feel them growing and learning from everything thrown their way. Lena is strong, fierce and isn’t afraid to stand up for her self and try to prove the village wrong.

I cannot wait to read the other books in the series once they are released! Ava Zoe did a fantastic job writing this and has definitely gained me as a forever reader! 10/10 would definitely recommend if you like a twist on fairytales!

[Teri Halterman-Panuelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazingly well written book!! Charter development on point!! A play on Little Red Riding Hood with a splash of a curse, hot brooding men and a village built of secrets!! 5/5 overall read(I don’t give these out often) and 3/5(huge dark spicy romance reader here) on the spicy scale. new to spice this is a good place to start. The book is just released so I don’t want to give any spoilers. But a must read!! I was not disappointed the book kept drawing me in and wanting to know more!! Before I knew it I was at the end of the book…

[Maddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dark little red riding hood retelling perfect for romantasy lovers. I didn’t realize this was a retelling, so it was a pleasant surprise to find elements from the classic tale mixed into a new tale. The need to go into the woods to break a curse was quite a nice twist to the original tale. I usually struggle with romantasy because the characters usually lack development, but with this one the main characters each have some growth. I think the only complaint I had was that I found the pacing to be off at times, but that is the only issue. I can’t wait for more from this author.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first retelling read and it was a hit!

Calder is *chefs kiss*. He’s passionate, caring, loyal, and protective. Then you have Alaric, hiding in the shadows, brooding, and HOT!

The FMC Lena is bold, courageous, adventurous, and willing to do anything to save the people that she loves. She’s inspiring!

I couldn’t put it down and once I was half way, I just had to finish right away! The twists and turns and the slow build. I couldn’t resist!!