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Cursed #2
Cursed in the Lost City
It’s 1599. Fang and Lazare are on the run with their friends Amber, Nell and half-fae child Tem. The news that Tem possesses the power to make humans immortal is spreading across London like wildfire – and has even reached the ears of the ailing Queen Elizabeth Tudor.
Desperate to avoid capture by the English crown, keep Tem safe, reverse their curse and not all die, the gang flee to The Lost City of Llanelli, the realm of the dragon queen Redthroat the Invincible. Rumoured to have almighty power, does Redthroat really have the answers to their problems? And if they can stop getting attacked by muggers, harpies and dragons for five minutes, might Fang and Lazare be able to admit they are falling in love?
Desperate to avoid capture by the English crown, keep Tem safe, reverse their curse and not all die, the gang flee to The Lost City of Llanelli, the realm of the dragon queen Redthroat the Invincible. Rumoured to have almighty power, does Redthroat really have the answers to their problems? And if they can stop getting attacked by muggers, harpies and dragons for five minutes, might Fang and Lazare be able to admit they are falling in love?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 29, 2025
Fang, Lazare, Amber, Nell, and Tem are on the run to Llanelli for an audience with the queen of the dragons - Redthroat - who they believe can reverse their curses. But everyone they meet seems to have an agenda. Who can they trust? And will Fang and Lazare ever admit their true feelings for each other?
This is book 2 in the Cursed series. Set in an alternative Elizabethan London/Wales - don't go looking for tudor dialogue as you won't find it here.
Written by one of the Horrible Histories writers, you know it's going to be fun... that ending, though. 😲
This is book 2 in the Cursed series. Set in an alternative Elizabethan London/Wales - don't go looking for tudor dialogue as you won't find it here.
Written by one of the Horrible Histories writers, you know it's going to be fun... that ending, though. 😲
July 15, 2025
This is such an amazing book! The plot walks a tightrope between comedy and drama. The characters are endearing to a point. The twist at the end that was brilliantly foreshadowed but was never once spoiled. I found myself laughing out loud more than once during the whole read. If you’re looking for something a bit different in your fantasy reading pick up this book.
July 21, 2025
A free ARC of this book was made available to me through NetGalley. My review was optional and contains only my honest opinions.
I requested this book without realizing it was a sequel, but decided to see how well the story holds up for other readers who might go in blind. I suspected the author had such readers in mind; while I never found it grating, there's a number of times where the characters are reflecting on recent events that felt very expository.
My plan was scrapped by the end of chapter 2. I was so immediately curious about the cast of characters and what they'd just experienced that I put this book down for the two days it took me to read Cursed Under London. While I do think the choice positively influenced my feelings on this book, and the score I gave it, that feels more than fair when reviewing a sequel.
While I'm always drawn to queer stories, I was braced not to enjoy this series. I'm someone who typically dislikes obviously modern words or concepts in an otherwise historical or historically inspired setting; anyone who's read the Cursed Novels knows that both are used unrelentingly. Fortunately for me, it was that purposeful, consistent approach to anachronism (and the comedic tone) that helped me to acclimate to the author's world and enjoy the journey I was taken on. While it might not be to everyone's tastes, I'd still encourage those who usually feel as I do to give this series a chance.
As with the previous book, we're treated to Gabby Hutchinson Crouch's incredibly strong authorial voice and a very likeable cast of characters. Cursed in the Lost City shares more of the setting's world building. We get a chance to see a range of how magical citizenry are treated by their mortal neighbours and governments, and by each other: themes of colonialism, classism, fetishization, and xenophobia are explored between and within both populations. In my opinion (and from my limited viewpoint) the book's satirical lean touches on these realistic aspects of our Elizabethan fantasy setting in a way that neither feels dismissive nor at odds with the overall lighter tone.
The book's humour is a strength, but it doesn't come at the cost of allowing some poignant moments. Darker aspects of the plot are always given the weight they deserve and leave a lingering impact on our leads. I always felt like these conflicting tones were well balanced, though I would have liked even more time to celebrate and grieve with these characters. It's easy to get invested and hard not to be left wanting more than the tight 276 pages we're given with them. That said, neither the friendships nor the romance suffer from the story's brisk pace. The cast goes through so much together and have such charming chemistry that it never strains my belief that they've already come to care for one another so deeply. It's hard not to fall in love with the little found family the main cast has become.
I didn't find this book to be quite as strong as the first, but still found it a deeply enjoyable addition to the series. It resolves just enough that I don't feel cheated and sets up the next book in a way that makes me all the more impatient for it. That my main review sites don't allow for half-stars pushed my rating of Cursed Under London from a 4 to a 5; leaving this one at a 3 felt like a disservice when it's so above what I'd consider merely decent or average, to say nothing of the deep fondness I have for this series and its characters.
I have my fingers crossed that the author's publishing schedule remains consistent, which would mean getting the third installment in July of 2026. I do hope that the author works at whatever pace is best for her, but also... she knows what she did with those final chapters.
I requested this book without realizing it was a sequel, but decided to see how well the story holds up for other readers who might go in blind. I suspected the author had such readers in mind; while I never found it grating, there's a number of times where the characters are reflecting on recent events that felt very expository.
My plan was scrapped by the end of chapter 2. I was so immediately curious about the cast of characters and what they'd just experienced that I put this book down for the two days it took me to read Cursed Under London. While I do think the choice positively influenced my feelings on this book, and the score I gave it, that feels more than fair when reviewing a sequel.
While I'm always drawn to queer stories, I was braced not to enjoy this series. I'm someone who typically dislikes obviously modern words or concepts in an otherwise historical or historically inspired setting; anyone who's read the Cursed Novels knows that both are used unrelentingly. Fortunately for me, it was that purposeful, consistent approach to anachronism (and the comedic tone) that helped me to acclimate to the author's world and enjoy the journey I was taken on. While it might not be to everyone's tastes, I'd still encourage those who usually feel as I do to give this series a chance.
As with the previous book, we're treated to Gabby Hutchinson Crouch's incredibly strong authorial voice and a very likeable cast of characters. Cursed in the Lost City shares more of the setting's world building. We get a chance to see a range of how magical citizenry are treated by their mortal neighbours and governments, and by each other: themes of colonialism, classism, fetishization, and xenophobia are explored between and within both populations. In my opinion (and from my limited viewpoint) the book's satirical lean touches on these realistic aspects of our Elizabethan fantasy setting in a way that neither feels dismissive nor at odds with the overall lighter tone.
The book's humour is a strength, but it doesn't come at the cost of allowing some poignant moments. Darker aspects of the plot are always given the weight they deserve and leave a lingering impact on our leads. I always felt like these conflicting tones were well balanced, though I would have liked even more time to celebrate and grieve with these characters. It's easy to get invested and hard not to be left wanting more than the tight 276 pages we're given with them. That said, neither the friendships nor the romance suffer from the story's brisk pace. The cast goes through so much together and have such charming chemistry that it never strains my belief that they've already come to care for one another so deeply. It's hard not to fall in love with the little found family the main cast has become.
I didn't find this book to be quite as strong as the first, but still found it a deeply enjoyable addition to the series. It resolves just enough that I don't feel cheated and sets up the next book in a way that makes me all the more impatient for it. That my main review sites don't allow for half-stars pushed my rating of Cursed Under London from a 4 to a 5; leaving this one at a 3 felt like a disservice when it's so above what I'd consider merely decent or average, to say nothing of the deep fondness I have for this series and its characters.
I have my fingers crossed that the author's publishing schedule remains consistent, which would mean getting the third installment in July of 2026. I do hope that the author works at whatever pace is best for her, but also... she knows what she did with those final chapters.
October 28, 2025
Cursed in the Lost City wastes no time throwing us back into the thick of things. Gabby Hutchinson Crouch brings back her eccentric crew of misfits and magic, this time trekking through the supernatural chaos of Wales, and while the momentum rarely slows, it’s in the rare quiet moments that the book shines brightest.
The narrative is stuffed to the brim with action—curses, creatures, catastrophes—and while that makes for a high-energy sequel, I found myself craving more stillness. More time to sit in those vulnerable pockets with the characters who’ve grown on me like stubborn moss. There’s one scene—let’s just say it involves a dragon and a very ill-timed love confession—that sums this up perfectly. Hectic, hilarious, heartfelt… but also, maybe, a bit rushed.
What grounds the story amidst all the chaos, though, is the emotional core. The found family dynamic continues to be the heart of this series, and it’s never felt more endearing. Fang slowly but surely stepping into the role of Tem’s father figure is hands-down one of the most wholesome arcs I’ve read in a while. Their bond isn’t flashy, but it’s deeply felt—tempered by tenderness and quiet trust.
There’s more emotional weight here than in book one, too—particularly in the way the story handles trauma and healing. The relationship between Fang and Lazare blossoms beautifully into something solid and emotionally grounded. Gone is the surface-level flirtation; what remains is real connection, mutual care, and the kind of support that’s quietly life-saving. Their scenes together are some of the most affecting in the book, especially as they allow themselves to be fully seen by each other, flaws and all.
Gabby Hutchinson Crouch continues to strike a careful balance between humor, heartache, and high fantasy. The jokes still land, the world continues to expand in rich and interesting ways, and the emotional depth has only intensified. If this sequel is a bit more chaotic in structure, it makes up for it with some truly meaningful character growth and themes that resonate beyond the page.
For readers who like:
- Fantasy adventures
- Found family dynamics
- Queer stories with depth, charm, and great banters
Final Verdict
Cursed in the Lost City might move at breakneck speed, but its emotional heart never misses a beat. With lovable characters, heartfelt relationships, and an ever-deepening magical world, this sequel delivers on the promise of the first—and then some. A chaotic, funny, unexpectedly tender journey through grief, healing, and what it means to choose each other.
Grateful to NetGalley, Duckworth Books and Gabby Hutchinson Crouch for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative is stuffed to the brim with action—curses, creatures, catastrophes—and while that makes for a high-energy sequel, I found myself craving more stillness. More time to sit in those vulnerable pockets with the characters who’ve grown on me like stubborn moss. There’s one scene—let’s just say it involves a dragon and a very ill-timed love confession—that sums this up perfectly. Hectic, hilarious, heartfelt… but also, maybe, a bit rushed.
What grounds the story amidst all the chaos, though, is the emotional core. The found family dynamic continues to be the heart of this series, and it’s never felt more endearing. Fang slowly but surely stepping into the role of Tem’s father figure is hands-down one of the most wholesome arcs I’ve read in a while. Their bond isn’t flashy, but it’s deeply felt—tempered by tenderness and quiet trust.
There’s more emotional weight here than in book one, too—particularly in the way the story handles trauma and healing. The relationship between Fang and Lazare blossoms beautifully into something solid and emotionally grounded. Gone is the surface-level flirtation; what remains is real connection, mutual care, and the kind of support that’s quietly life-saving. Their scenes together are some of the most affecting in the book, especially as they allow themselves to be fully seen by each other, flaws and all.
Gabby Hutchinson Crouch continues to strike a careful balance between humor, heartache, and high fantasy. The jokes still land, the world continues to expand in rich and interesting ways, and the emotional depth has only intensified. If this sequel is a bit more chaotic in structure, it makes up for it with some truly meaningful character growth and themes that resonate beyond the page.
For readers who like:
- Fantasy adventures
- Found family dynamics
- Queer stories with depth, charm, and great banters
Final Verdict
Cursed in the Lost City might move at breakneck speed, but its emotional heart never misses a beat. With lovable characters, heartfelt relationships, and an ever-deepening magical world, this sequel delivers on the promise of the first—and then some. A chaotic, funny, unexpectedly tender journey through grief, healing, and what it means to choose each other.
Grateful to NetGalley, Duckworth Books and Gabby Hutchinson Crouch for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2025
I hate ad lines. "The thrilling second book in the Elizabethan rom-com series": please, spare me. The Cursed books aren't "Elizabethan," they're alt-Elizabethan; since Fang, Nell, Lazare, and Amber are on the run to protect the child Tem, there are suspenseful stretches, but "thrilling" suggests a certain giddy delight, as in a rollercoaster, that's alien to the story's emotional underpinnings. Because, sure, there's a fair amount of hilarity, but the narrative foundations are deadly serious: Tem's mother has been murdered, Fang and Lazare, who are immortal, have both been painfully murdered multiple times, an experience not treated lightly; Nell has been forced from her original home in Wales and, as far as she or we know, also from the life she made for herself in London; and the rulers of Britain, Wales, and the lost city of Llanelli are all interested in capturing Tem, Fang, Lazare, and Nell for cruel and evil purposes.
On top of all that, or more properly underneath it, is a subtext concerned with the mistreatment of the vulnerable by those who hold power and authority over them.
The Cursed series is also evolving as the slowest of slow-burn romances (Fang/Lazare), in the service of which Gabby Hutchinson Crouch is leaning hard on the miscommunication trope. Leaning rather too hard on it, I'd say: each individual miscommunication or interrupted communication makes narrative sense, but after the tenth one they did get wearing. That having been said, GHC leans so hard into the trope that I began to think the resulting "This again?" reflected intentional absurdity. Anyway, Fang and Lazare do finally come to an understanding in this installment ... but note that "cliffhanger" tag.
A number of negative reviews of the first in the series, Cursed Under London, complained about anachronisms. About that I'll just repeat what I said in my review of that book: whereas usually anachronisms are mistakes, every so often you read something whose author clearly knows her onions and is messing around on purpose. I'm 100% confident that GHC is messing around on purpose.
Thanks to Farrago and NetGalley for the ARC. I'm on tenterhooks now: when is the next in this series coming out???
On top of all that, or more properly underneath it, is a subtext concerned with the mistreatment of the vulnerable by those who hold power and authority over them.
The Cursed series is also evolving as the slowest of slow-burn romances (Fang/Lazare), in the service of which Gabby Hutchinson Crouch is leaning hard on the miscommunication trope. Leaning rather too hard on it, I'd say: each individual miscommunication or interrupted communication makes narrative sense, but after the tenth one they did get wearing. That having been said, GHC leans so hard into the trope that I began to think the resulting "This again?" reflected intentional absurdity. Anyway, Fang and Lazare do finally come to an understanding in this installment ... but note that "cliffhanger" tag.
A number of negative reviews of the first in the series, Cursed Under London, complained about anachronisms. About that I'll just repeat what I said in my review of that book: whereas usually anachronisms are mistakes, every so often you read something whose author clearly knows her onions and is messing around on purpose. I'm 100% confident that GHC is messing around on purpose.
Thanks to Farrago and NetGalley for the ARC. I'm on tenterhooks now: when is the next in this series coming out???
July 25, 2025
Cursed in the Lost City is the second story in Gabby Hutchinson Crouch’s Cursed series. As the blurb states, it’s a “queer rom-com set in a fantasy version of Elizabethan England.” Readers who have omitted the first book in the series may well wander through the first few chapters in a rather bewildered state, so I recommend reading that book first.
A collection (by the end of the book, “family”) of misfits has banded together. Fang, Lazaire and Nell are/were human but can no longer die; Amber is a small dragon; and Tem is a young fae child with significant magical powers that she is too young to understand. Following the events of the first book, they have decided to journey to the Lost City of Llanelli and petition the dragon queen, Redbreast, to use her great magic to help them.
Crouch’s strengths as a writer are her ability to take familiar tropes and subvert them, e.g. the Emfor tunnel connecting Wales and England; and her one-liners such as “it was fishier than a mermaid eating bouillabaisse in a fish market.” However, in this novel, the wit is buried beneath long and repetitive chunks of narrative where Fang or Lazaire is agonizing about Lazaire or Fang. One or the other often thinks about kissing the other with hands on/under thighs. There is a growing realisation that lust is not the same as love; and that one can love many friends quite deeply; and want to be with them all, while just wanting to be in bed with one of them.
The narrative, sans the many expositions of emotion, is fun. Although this is a fantasy novel and many of the cast are not fully human, the dialogue and behaviours are 100% human, with petty jealousies; jobsworths and bureaucracy that are recognisable throughout the whole world. One wonders, though, why the author has allowed Honkensby, who was a sinister figure of authority in the first book, to elide into almost a slapstick character. Still, no doubt all will be revealed in the third book of the series.
If I could award half-stars, I'd give it three and a half. The passages of thwarted yearning occupied too great a proportion of the narrative for me.
#CursedintheLostCity #NetGalley
A collection (by the end of the book, “family”) of misfits has banded together. Fang, Lazaire and Nell are/were human but can no longer die; Amber is a small dragon; and Tem is a young fae child with significant magical powers that she is too young to understand. Following the events of the first book, they have decided to journey to the Lost City of Llanelli and petition the dragon queen, Redbreast, to use her great magic to help them.
Crouch’s strengths as a writer are her ability to take familiar tropes and subvert them, e.g. the Emfor tunnel connecting Wales and England; and her one-liners such as “it was fishier than a mermaid eating bouillabaisse in a fish market.” However, in this novel, the wit is buried beneath long and repetitive chunks of narrative where Fang or Lazaire is agonizing about Lazaire or Fang. One or the other often thinks about kissing the other with hands on/under thighs. There is a growing realisation that lust is not the same as love; and that one can love many friends quite deeply; and want to be with them all, while just wanting to be in bed with one of them.
The narrative, sans the many expositions of emotion, is fun. Although this is a fantasy novel and many of the cast are not fully human, the dialogue and behaviours are 100% human, with petty jealousies; jobsworths and bureaucracy that are recognisable throughout the whole world. One wonders, though, why the author has allowed Honkensby, who was a sinister figure of authority in the first book, to elide into almost a slapstick character. Still, no doubt all will be revealed in the third book of the series.
If I could award half-stars, I'd give it three and a half. The passages of thwarted yearning occupied too great a proportion of the narrative for me.
#CursedintheLostCity #NetGalley
July 28, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Duckworth books for the e-ARC!
The adventures of Fang and Lazare continue in this sequel to 'Cursed Under London'. After narrowly escaping an evil alchemist, the newly immortal boys make their way to Wales with their new found family of Nell, Amber and the half-fae child Tem. They hope to ask Redthroat, rule of the dragons, for help with breaking the curse that makes them immortal. However, Elizabeth 1 and the Welsh king attempt to intercept the group in order to achieve immortality for themselves. Will the little family ever find a safe spot to rest?
I feel that this book does have a case of 'middle book syndrome' in that it seems to only exist in order to set up the next book's conflict. However, I honestly don't care because it was still fantastic and I had a damn good time reading it.
Hutchinson Crouch has mastered the ability of making a reader laugh and cry without even trying. Her prose is endlessly funny but she continues putting her characters in such heartbreaking situations! Its rare for me to adore every single character in a book but damn does Hutchinson Crouch get me to love every single one in this book.
The romance between Fang and Lazare brought the angst in a way that didn't hinge on miscommunication. Both men have dealt with some very traumatic events and work to figure out what that means for their relationship. I like when books show a couple growing and changing together and 'Cursed in the Lost City' does this very well.
That being said, there were some plot developments towards the end that definitely seemed to be there to set up the next book. I do feel like a whole lot of nothing plot wise happened in this book due to prepping for the next book but honestly I'd read endless adventures about this found family. It's funny, it's heartwarming and it'll make you cry. The vibes are immaculate!! (Plus zombie Anne Boleyn FTW).
The adventures of Fang and Lazare continue in this sequel to 'Cursed Under London'. After narrowly escaping an evil alchemist, the newly immortal boys make their way to Wales with their new found family of Nell, Amber and the half-fae child Tem. They hope to ask Redthroat, rule of the dragons, for help with breaking the curse that makes them immortal. However, Elizabeth 1 and the Welsh king attempt to intercept the group in order to achieve immortality for themselves. Will the little family ever find a safe spot to rest?
I feel that this book does have a case of 'middle book syndrome' in that it seems to only exist in order to set up the next book's conflict. However, I honestly don't care because it was still fantastic and I had a damn good time reading it.
Hutchinson Crouch has mastered the ability of making a reader laugh and cry without even trying. Her prose is endlessly funny but she continues putting her characters in such heartbreaking situations! Its rare for me to adore every single character in a book but damn does Hutchinson Crouch get me to love every single one in this book.
The romance between Fang and Lazare brought the angst in a way that didn't hinge on miscommunication. Both men have dealt with some very traumatic events and work to figure out what that means for their relationship. I like when books show a couple growing and changing together and 'Cursed in the Lost City' does this very well.
That being said, there were some plot developments towards the end that definitely seemed to be there to set up the next book. I do feel like a whole lot of nothing plot wise happened in this book due to prepping for the next book but honestly I'd read endless adventures about this found family. It's funny, it's heartwarming and it'll make you cry. The vibes are immaculate!! (Plus zombie Anne Boleyn FTW).
August 28, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC!
I had so much fun reading Cursed Under London, I was thrilled to get an eARC for the Cursed in the Lost City!
We pick up soon after where we left off, with our intrepid protagonists in Deep London figuring out what to do about Tem and their undead situation. It was so fun coming back to this quirky, supernatural version of Elizabethan London, and it was even better getting to follow up with this goofy ridiculous found family. These assorted misfits may have numerous issues, but importantly, they have each other. <3 Amber doesn't have issues though, because Amber is the GOAT. Um, I mean dragon.
NGL, while this book is lots of fun, it suffers a little from middle-book-in-a-trilogy syndrome, where the main plot is just getting the characters from point A to B, aka from book 1 to book 3. The plot as a whole doesn't feel like it has any major consequences or lasting impact, other than putting the characters in a new place.
On the plus side, less plot means more time spent on characters! We get to find out more about Nell's past and why she went to London in the first place, and we get some Amber PoV, as she learns more about her species. As for Fang and Lazare, they are just as incapable of communicating as ever. I have never met a character more desperately in need of therapy than Fang (complimentary). This might sound a little hypocritical, but I feel like when they finally get together, it happened too easily? Like, it definitely was not easy, but after all that angst and back and forth, I feel like the getting together itself happened too quickly, you know? Or maybe not, whatever.
Also, this isn't a critique just an observation, a lot of the funny moments read like visual gags, like you can definitely tell that the author worked in TV.
I had so much fun reading Cursed Under London, I was thrilled to get an eARC for the Cursed in the Lost City!
We pick up soon after where we left off, with our intrepid protagonists in Deep London figuring out what to do about Tem and their undead situation. It was so fun coming back to this quirky, supernatural version of Elizabethan London, and it was even better getting to follow up with this goofy ridiculous found family. These assorted misfits may have numerous issues, but importantly, they have each other. <3 Amber doesn't have issues though, because Amber is the GOAT. Um, I mean dragon.
NGL, while this book is lots of fun, it suffers a little from middle-book-in-a-trilogy syndrome, where the main plot is just getting the characters from point A to B, aka from book 1 to book 3. The plot as a whole doesn't feel like it has any major consequences or lasting impact, other than putting the characters in a new place.
On the plus side, less plot means more time spent on characters! We get to find out more about Nell's past and why she went to London in the first place, and we get some Amber PoV, as she learns more about her species. As for Fang and Lazare, they are just as incapable of communicating as ever. I have never met a character more desperately in need of therapy than Fang (complimentary). This might sound a little hypocritical, but I feel like when they finally get together, it happened too easily? Like, it definitely was not easy, but after all that angst and back and forth, I feel like the getting together itself happened too quickly, you know? Or maybe not, whatever.
Also, this isn't a critique just an observation, a lot of the funny moments read like visual gags, like you can definitely tell that the author worked in TV.
July 30, 2025
Cursed in the Lost City is the follow-up to the queer comedic historical romantasy Cursed Under London set in an alternate Elizabethan England where magical creatures coexist with humanity. Frenchman actor Lazare, Asian nomad Fang, and apothecary Nell are trapped somewhere between life and death after being made immortal and magical by half-fae child Tem. They are on the run alongside dragon runt Amber from monarchs who want Tem’s power for themselves. In hopes of reversing the curse, they flee to the not-actually-lost Lost City of Llanelli to seek aid from the almighty dragon queen Redthroat the Invinsible while being pursued from all sides.
Unfortunately, I did not like this book all that much. I think these absurd comedies may just not be for me because I just found so many of what was supposed to be humorous as incredulous and annoying. The characters are supposed to be fleeing, but there was no sense of urgency at all. There was just so much shenanigans that took away from any momentum or realism. They wasted so much time with personal drama and annoying asides that were supposed to be funny but fell completely flat with me.
While this second book had more focus on the romance between Lazare and Fang than Cursed Under London, I still hesitate to call this book a romantasy as it just does not read like a romance at all. It does have two things I don’t really like in my romances—unnecessary conflict and miscommunication. The conflict between Lazare and Fang was so needless that I even question why this was in the story. Lazare needed to get over himself because none of his concerns even happened to him so it is a non-issue and the way it was resolved made it even worse. Then the miscommunication between them was just so annoying. And when they finally clarified, they just slipped into another fucking miscommunication. I was just not into it.
Because of several hyper-specific issues that may be down to personal taste, I could not appreciate Cursed in the Lost City.
*Thank you to Duckwood Books for the eARC via NetGalley
Unfortunately, I did not like this book all that much. I think these absurd comedies may just not be for me because I just found so many of what was supposed to be humorous as incredulous and annoying. The characters are supposed to be fleeing, but there was no sense of urgency at all. There was just so much shenanigans that took away from any momentum or realism. They wasted so much time with personal drama and annoying asides that were supposed to be funny but fell completely flat with me.
While this second book had more focus on the romance between Lazare and Fang than Cursed Under London, I still hesitate to call this book a romantasy as it just does not read like a romance at all. It does have two things I don’t really like in my romances—unnecessary conflict and miscommunication. The conflict between Lazare and Fang was so needless that I even question why this was in the story. Lazare needed to get over himself because none of his concerns even happened to him so it is a non-issue and the way it was resolved made it even worse. Then the miscommunication between them was just so annoying. And when they finally clarified, they just slipped into another fucking miscommunication. I was just not into it.
Because of several hyper-specific issues that may be down to personal taste, I could not appreciate Cursed in the Lost City.
*Thank you to Duckwood Books for the eARC via NetGalley
July 16, 2025
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for giving me an ARC.
This was a fantastic follow up to the first book. It had the same balance of humour, tenderness, and great world-building as the previous one, and developed the characters from the first book further.
I really liked the progression of Lazare and Fang's relationship - it felt like they moved beyond just physical attraction/minor crush into being in love, and it was so organic and well-written. I love that the characters are allowed to be silly and light-hearted, yet there are definite moments of seriousness and real emotion. Fang being a father to Tem is absolutely adorable and I love their progression of Fang finally giving into Tem calling him dad and allowing himself to be her father figure. It was so adorably wholesome.
It was really nice to see Nell return to her homeland. I like that she acknowledged that no one from her home supported her in her venture to start a business in London and recognised that she had already found her home with Tem, Lazare, Fang, and Amber. I love a good found family trope.
This had some genuine laugh out loud moments, as well as emotional moments that made me tear up, and an incredible twist at the end that was hinted at but I did NOT see coming.
This series is so incredible.
This was a fantastic follow up to the first book. It had the same balance of humour, tenderness, and great world-building as the previous one, and developed the characters from the first book further.
I really liked the progression of Lazare and Fang's relationship - it felt like they moved beyond just physical attraction/minor crush into being in love, and it was so organic and well-written. I love that the characters are allowed to be silly and light-hearted, yet there are definite moments of seriousness and real emotion. Fang being a father to Tem is absolutely adorable and I love their progression of Fang finally giving into Tem calling him dad and allowing himself to be her father figure. It was so adorably wholesome.
It was really nice to see Nell return to her homeland. I like that she acknowledged that no one from her home supported her in her venture to start a business in London and recognised that she had already found her home with Tem, Lazare, Fang, and Amber. I love a good found family trope.
This had some genuine laugh out loud moments, as well as emotional moments that made me tear up, and an incredible twist at the end that was hinted at but I did NOT see coming.
This series is so incredible.
August 23, 2025
I adore this series! This is just the perfect mix of humour, paranormal creatures, cosy fantasy vibes, and the sweetest romance
Last year, Farrago books were kind enough to gift me a copy of cursed under london and I fell in love with the characters and the story. So when I was gifted a copy of book two from them, excited is an understatement. So a big thank you!
This book is a queer romcom set in an alternate fantasy version of London in the 1500's and its just so much chaotic fun!
I adore the characters in this. The grumpy / sunshine 🌞 relationship of Fang and Lazare, the vampires, Amber, the little Dragon and Nell the shop owner.
The author creates the best found family, friendship vibes in this series and book two keeps all the best bits of book one and steps it up a notch. Seeing the closeness of all the characters, their different personalities and connections to Tam, the little Fae child with magical abilities is both heartwarming and hilarious in equal measures.
This series is the perfect read if you are looking for a funny cosy vibes paranormal romance and I know you'll fall in love with the characters and chaos in this series.
Huge thank you to Farrago books for reaching out and sending me this! All thoughts are my own.
Last year, Farrago books were kind enough to gift me a copy of cursed under london and I fell in love with the characters and the story. So when I was gifted a copy of book two from them, excited is an understatement. So a big thank you!
This book is a queer romcom set in an alternate fantasy version of London in the 1500's and its just so much chaotic fun!
I adore the characters in this. The grumpy / sunshine 🌞 relationship of Fang and Lazare, the vampires, Amber, the little Dragon and Nell the shop owner.
The author creates the best found family, friendship vibes in this series and book two keeps all the best bits of book one and steps it up a notch. Seeing the closeness of all the characters, their different personalities and connections to Tam, the little Fae child with magical abilities is both heartwarming and hilarious in equal measures.
This series is the perfect read if you are looking for a funny cosy vibes paranormal romance and I know you'll fall in love with the characters and chaos in this series.
Huge thank you to Farrago books for reaching out and sending me this! All thoughts are my own.
July 14, 2025
This series is so fun, so as soon as I saw this was read now on ng I requested it straight away, especially since I had just finished rereading the first book in preparation.
This book picks up directly where the first one finished, with our strange little family still trying to find a way to break the curse and travelling to Wales (Obviously the magical capital of the uk). I think this one suffered a little in comparison to the first book because there was so much going on. It was action packed, and whilst it kept the pace moving, I would have liked a little time to really sit with the characters. (Even the love confessions are done on the back of a fast moving dragon.)
I will say I loved the found family elements, and Tem being Fang's daughter is just the cutest thing in the world. This one was a little more angsty than the first book but I really liked the discussions around PTSD and trauma. Fang opening up to Lazare and them supporting each other was just lovely.
I am still going to continue the series to see how it all ends, these guys deserve to be a family and get their happy ending!
This book picks up directly where the first one finished, with our strange little family still trying to find a way to break the curse and travelling to Wales (Obviously the magical capital of the uk). I think this one suffered a little in comparison to the first book because there was so much going on. It was action packed, and whilst it kept the pace moving, I would have liked a little time to really sit with the characters. (Even the love confessions are done on the back of a fast moving dragon.)
I will say I loved the found family elements, and Tem being Fang's daughter is just the cutest thing in the world. This one was a little more angsty than the first book but I really liked the discussions around PTSD and trauma. Fang opening up to Lazare and them supporting each other was just lovely.
I am still going to continue the series to see how it all ends, these guys deserve to be a family and get their happy ending!
September 3, 2025
Still confusing
—
I read the first of these last year, so I thought I’d have a handle on what these books are about by now, but no, it’s just as confusing. I imagine if you came to this without reading the first one, you would probably be twice as confused as I am. Anyway, picking up almost at the moment the first book ended, our hapless heroes are being chased through London for the secret of their immortal condition. Various scrapes get them on the road to the Lost (as in hidden) City of Llanelli, the seat of Redthroat, Queen of the magical beings and an enormous dragon besides. Our little gang hopes that Redthroat has the magic to lift their curse and let them live happily ever after, but achieving one’s goal isn’t so easy.
The world-building still feels as perfunctory as in the previous book: why set it in 1599 but not make it feel at all as if it’s taking place in that era? Just acknowledge that it’s a time out of time from the get go, not this halfway house that’s neither England in 1599 nor a Tolkienesque Secondary World. The characters are fine, the tension works, but it’s still pretty random, with a quest element that is neither here nor there.
Three stars (again)
—
I read the first of these last year, so I thought I’d have a handle on what these books are about by now, but no, it’s just as confusing. I imagine if you came to this without reading the first one, you would probably be twice as confused as I am. Anyway, picking up almost at the moment the first book ended, our hapless heroes are being chased through London for the secret of their immortal condition. Various scrapes get them on the road to the Lost (as in hidden) City of Llanelli, the seat of Redthroat, Queen of the magical beings and an enormous dragon besides. Our little gang hopes that Redthroat has the magic to lift their curse and let them live happily ever after, but achieving one’s goal isn’t so easy.
The world-building still feels as perfunctory as in the previous book: why set it in 1599 but not make it feel at all as if it’s taking place in that era? Just acknowledge that it’s a time out of time from the get go, not this halfway house that’s neither England in 1599 nor a Tolkienesque Secondary World. The characters are fine, the tension works, but it’s still pretty random, with a quest element that is neither here nor there.
Three stars (again)
August 12, 2025
This series is pure chaotic, rom-com energy, and Cursed in the Lost City takes it up a notch.
We’re in 1599, and Fang, Lazare, Amber, Nell, and little half-fae Tem are on the run. Which is tricky enough without the whole “Tem might have the power to make humans immortal” thing spreading across London.
Oh, and Queen Elizabeth herself has heard the rumours. No pressure.
To escape capture and maybe fix a few life threatening problems, the crew heads for The Lost City of Llanelli, home to the dragon queen Redthroat the Invincible. She’s rumoured to have almighty power… but getting there means dodging muggers, harpies, and dragons, all while Fang and Lazare’s feelings for each other keep bubbling up.
If you like grumpy x sunshine, found family, supernatural chaos, and a sprinkling of romance with mild spice, this delivers!
It’s witty, sharp, and somehow heartfelt amid the mayhem. The banter alone is worth it.
We’re in 1599, and Fang, Lazare, Amber, Nell, and little half-fae Tem are on the run. Which is tricky enough without the whole “Tem might have the power to make humans immortal” thing spreading across London.
Oh, and Queen Elizabeth herself has heard the rumours. No pressure.
To escape capture and maybe fix a few life threatening problems, the crew heads for The Lost City of Llanelli, home to the dragon queen Redthroat the Invincible. She’s rumoured to have almighty power… but getting there means dodging muggers, harpies, and dragons, all while Fang and Lazare’s feelings for each other keep bubbling up.
If you like grumpy x sunshine, found family, supernatural chaos, and a sprinkling of romance with mild spice, this delivers!
It’s witty, sharp, and somehow heartfelt amid the mayhem. The banter alone is worth it.
July 20, 2025
Thanks Netgalley for this ARC
Set in 1599, the stakes are sky-high now that half-fae child Tem’s powers are making waves all the way to Queen Elizabeth’s court. The worldbuilding expands beautifully—we get dragons, harpies, cursed cities, and a very intense dragon queen named Redthroat (yes, she lives up to the name).
But what really got me was the slow-burn romance between Fang and Lazare. Amid all the chaos (and wow, there’s a lot of it), their relationship blossoms in this incredibly tender, believable way. You’re rooting for them, hard.
Funny, fast-paced, and surprisingly emotional, this book balances sharp dialogue and action with real heart. If you're into queer historical fantasy with found family, curses, and just a bit of chaos, you’ll love this.
Can’t wait for book three. Seriously. Someone please protect Tem at all costs.
Set in 1599, the stakes are sky-high now that half-fae child Tem’s powers are making waves all the way to Queen Elizabeth’s court. The worldbuilding expands beautifully—we get dragons, harpies, cursed cities, and a very intense dragon queen named Redthroat (yes, she lives up to the name).
But what really got me was the slow-burn romance between Fang and Lazare. Amid all the chaos (and wow, there’s a lot of it), their relationship blossoms in this incredibly tender, believable way. You’re rooting for them, hard.
Funny, fast-paced, and surprisingly emotional, this book balances sharp dialogue and action with real heart. If you're into queer historical fantasy with found family, curses, and just a bit of chaos, you’ll love this.
Can’t wait for book three. Seriously. Someone please protect Tem at all costs.
November 16, 2025
first of all, thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for this advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review. all opinions are mine.
i enjoyed this book.
well, if i'm being entirely honest, i looked at this story as something i went with the vibes and the comedy rather than the actual plot and the characters, which isn't ideal, but that's what happened. the fantasy setting and the adventurous backdrop wasn't something i really connected with, and that could just be my disinterest in fantasy worlds as a whole, OR that the comedy and the dialogue in this book didn't give it that much of an importance. the world felt inconsistent to me. it was set in 1500s but the choice of writing didn't reflect that.
but, it was fun. it was exciting, funny, absurd, and everything that makes it a fun book.
i enjoyed this book.
well, if i'm being entirely honest, i looked at this story as something i went with the vibes and the comedy rather than the actual plot and the characters, which isn't ideal, but that's what happened. the fantasy setting and the adventurous backdrop wasn't something i really connected with, and that could just be my disinterest in fantasy worlds as a whole, OR that the comedy and the dialogue in this book didn't give it that much of an importance. the world felt inconsistent to me. it was set in 1500s but the choice of writing didn't reflect that.
but, it was fun. it was exciting, funny, absurd, and everything that makes it a fun book.
July 30, 2025
Content warnings: death, physical violence, mind altering substances used without consent, sexual harassment
Fair warning, that Cursed in the Lost City ends on one hell of a cliffhanger in both the plot of our main characters, and in the reveal of a new character. With that being said, I enjoyed how the plot has progressed from Cursed Under London, but overall, I felt like some of the camp that was witty in the first book, feels overused in this sequel.
Overall it's a good second book in a series, but for me it wasn't as great a reading experience as the first book.
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Duckworth Books, and Farrago in exchange for an honest review.
Fair warning, that Cursed in the Lost City ends on one hell of a cliffhanger in both the plot of our main characters, and in the reveal of a new character. With that being said, I enjoyed how the plot has progressed from Cursed Under London, but overall, I felt like some of the camp that was witty in the first book, feels overused in this sequel.
Overall it's a good second book in a series, but for me it wasn't as great a reading experience as the first book.
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Duckworth Books, and Farrago in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2025
Cute follow-up to the first volume of Elizabethan Fantasy shenanigans set in alternate London.
We follow the initial found family in their quest for a cure to their curse. It's fast-paced, fun, full of quirky characters and a quick read.
I will totally keep going and read the next volume in the series, but the medium stars is explained by this typical pattern we see in trilogies, where the intro is a great hook and the final volume is a great climatic romp, but the middle is more about coming to terms with choices and basically being all anti-climatic... because the story has to keep going.
So, while being fun, it didn't advance things much, but you will enjoy it a lot if you like the characters, as you will get a whole lot of them.
We follow the initial found family in their quest for a cure to their curse. It's fast-paced, fun, full of quirky characters and a quick read.
I will totally keep going and read the next volume in the series, but the medium stars is explained by this typical pattern we see in trilogies, where the intro is a great hook and the final volume is a great climatic romp, but the middle is more about coming to terms with choices and basically being all anti-climatic... because the story has to keep going.
So, while being fun, it didn't advance things much, but you will enjoy it a lot if you like the characters, as you will get a whole lot of them.
July 12, 2025
Following on from Cursed Under London this book fails to disappoint. It is filled with the same humour, the same warmth and the same quality. The plot walks a tightrope between comedy and drama perfectly, with the characters endearing to the point I hope that the Swan captain of the royal guard gets her own book.
There is a twist at the end that was brilliantly foreshadowed but never spoiled, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. This is a series that even after two books I am in love with. If youre looking for something a bit different in your fantasy reading pick up this book and it's prequel.
There is a twist at the end that was brilliantly foreshadowed but never spoiled, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. This is a series that even after two books I am in love with. If youre looking for something a bit different in your fantasy reading pick up this book and it's prequel.
December 11, 2025
I liked this more than the first, actually quite enjoyed the humour, plot and drama. And I didn't see that last two chapters coming! Rare time I didn't see something coming so it gets bonus points there. And I think Kit and Bill are hilarious. Gabbys Horrible Histories work realy comes through at points.
I do have niggles though, the 1600s is worked better into this one but the language use is sooo modern, it just pulls something from it and makes it hard to imagine its 400 years ago. And why is EVERYONE bisexual? I have no issues with whatever sexuality, but does every character have to be bi, really?
I do have niggles though, the 1600s is worked better into this one but the language use is sooo modern, it just pulls something from it and makes it hard to imagine its 400 years ago. And why is EVERYONE bisexual? I have no issues with whatever sexuality, but does every character have to be bi, really?
July 24, 2025
Thanks to netGalley and the publisher for the eARC of this novel. 3.5/5 stars.
This is the sequel to one I read last year. I had to go look at my review of #1 to remind me what this series was about, and I'm so glad that my review reminded me how utterly absurd this series is. Is it great writing and plot? No. Am I here for the dragons and geese police and zombie Christopher Marlowe and all of the other weird chaos? Yes.
This is the sequel to one I read last year. I had to go look at my review of #1 to remind me what this series was about, and I'm so glad that my review reminded me how utterly absurd this series is. Is it great writing and plot? No. Am I here for the dragons and geese police and zombie Christopher Marlowe and all of the other weird chaos? Yes.
July 26, 2025
thank you netgalley for the opportunity to review this book!!!
the dialogue is so funny and easy to read. i loved the way the author wrote the action scenes—very easy to follow but also just entertaining. this book seemed very plot driven! i believe that all dialogue should be written like this, it’s just so fun to read.
i love found family dynamics and this executed the accidental parent trope well. i loved the characters and the book immediately sucked me in.
the dialogue is so funny and easy to read. i loved the way the author wrote the action scenes—very easy to follow but also just entertaining. this book seemed very plot driven! i believe that all dialogue should be written like this, it’s just so fun to read.
i love found family dynamics and this executed the accidental parent trope well. i loved the characters and the book immediately sucked me in.
August 18, 2025
I adored the first book in the series, but if this is anything to go by, it should have been a stand alone. It felt like a shaggy dog story.
Disappointing.
Disappointing.
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