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This Fatal Kiss
Spirit away with a whimsical fantasy filled with dark magic and flirty, polyamorous romance.
Cursed to haunt the river running through the magical spa town where she drowned, Gisela is a water nymph who dreams of returning to the living world and the family she left behind. All it takes to regain her humanity is a kiss from a mortal...but everyone sees her as a monster.
And then there’s Kazik, the brooding, interfering, spirit-hunting grandson of a local witch. He's determined to rid the world of unholy creatures like Gisela. After Kazik botches Gisela’s exorcism, she strikes up a deal. She won’t tell the other spirits that he’s losing his magic, if he agrees to play matchmaker and helps her get a kiss. But Gisela’s plan goes awry when Kazik also falls for the devilishly handsome young man that she sets her heart on—someone who could be linked to Gisela’s troubled past.
Finely crafted with a magical setting, this delectable quest through the spirit world is an enchanting read for fairy tale enthusiasts and YA fans of queer romantasy.
Cursed to haunt the river running through the magical spa town where she drowned, Gisela is a water nymph who dreams of returning to the living world and the family she left behind. All it takes to regain her humanity is a kiss from a mortal...but everyone sees her as a monster.
And then there’s Kazik, the brooding, interfering, spirit-hunting grandson of a local witch. He's determined to rid the world of unholy creatures like Gisela. After Kazik botches Gisela’s exorcism, she strikes up a deal. She won’t tell the other spirits that he’s losing his magic, if he agrees to play matchmaker and helps her get a kiss. But Gisela’s plan goes awry when Kazik also falls for the devilishly handsome young man that she sets her heart on—someone who could be linked to Gisela’s troubled past.
Finely crafted with a magical setting, this delectable quest through the spirit world is an enchanting read for fairy tale enthusiasts and YA fans of queer romantasy.
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First published September 24, 2024
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About the author
Alicia Jasinska
4 books795 followersAlicia Jasinska hails from Sydney, Australia and is the author of acclaimed YA novels THE DARK TIDE, THE MIDNIGHT GIRLS, THIS FATAL KISS, and the forthcoming THIS LETHAL LOVE. A library technician by day, she spends her nights writing and hanging upside down from the aerial hoop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,241 reviews
October 19, 2024
a water nymph annoys the local exorcist so much he falls in love
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August 26, 2024
There’s a special, powerful kind of magic in the connections we make with other people.
slavic folklore meets spirited away with a queer polyamorous romance and all the delectable food descriptions you could ever want.
a fantastical, whimsical, and richly atmospheric tale filled with mythical beings and a bit of a mystery.
the poly romance was done quite well for me; there's an exciting tension between rusałka gisela and town exorcist kazik. the way she shamelessly taunts and teases him makes for a fun sassy x grumpy dynamic. she also challenges him though on a more serious note: how to take his faith in stride, but also keep his own humanity in check when dealing with spirits. he's forced to ask himself: do spirits not have their own humanity? are they always only bad?
“Do you want to die?” He panted.
“I’m already dead!” Gisela said in a singsong.
“Then die properly this time.”
“This is my dear sweet friend Gisela. She’s so nice. So pretty. She’s—”
“A cold-blooded demon.”
“Someone might find that appealing, actually. It’s like when the other spirits say things about you. Oh, that wicked exorcist. So dangerous. So sexy.”
i also felt like the relationships between the two of them and aleksey were both compelling and done equally well. the trio dynamic had me giggling and kicking my feet for them. i'm more ambivalent typically when it comes to poly, but this had me rooting hard for them.
AND THE FOOD DESCRIPTIONS OMG. with all the cozy witch vibes and summer festivals happening in here, there is no shortage of food so you better have something yummy on hand! i'm about to go make myself a blueberry pierogi just to know how it tastes myself 😭
this does touch on religious trauma and bi/homophobia, and the folklore has some dark elements, but overall this was a very enjoyable YA fantasy!
Spirits are hard to win over, but if you earn their loyalty, you have it forever.
that ending?!?! pls tell me there's a sequel on the way???!!!
an honest arc review ♡
_____________________
⊹₊｡ꕤ˚₊⊹ preread ⊹₊｡ꕤ˚₊⊹
i've seen this in a few moots' fav 2024 reads lists so i'm excited!
slavic folklore meets spirited away with a queer polyamorous romance and all the delectable food descriptions you could ever want.
a fantastical, whimsical, and richly atmospheric tale filled with mythical beings and a bit of a mystery.
the poly romance was done quite well for me; there's an exciting tension between rusałka gisela and town exorcist kazik. the way she shamelessly taunts and teases him makes for a fun sassy x grumpy dynamic. she also challenges him though on a more serious note: how to take his faith in stride, but also keep his own humanity in check when dealing with spirits. he's forced to ask himself: do spirits not have their own humanity? are they always only bad?
“Do you want to die?” He panted.
“I’m already dead!” Gisela said in a singsong.
“Then die properly this time.”
“This is my dear sweet friend Gisela. She’s so nice. So pretty. She’s—”
“A cold-blooded demon.”
“Someone might find that appealing, actually. It’s like when the other spirits say things about you. Oh, that wicked exorcist. So dangerous. So sexy.”
i also felt like the relationships between the two of them and aleksey were both compelling and done equally well. the trio dynamic had me giggling and kicking my feet for them. i'm more ambivalent typically when it comes to poly, but this had me rooting hard for them.
AND THE FOOD DESCRIPTIONS OMG. with all the cozy witch vibes and summer festivals happening in here, there is no shortage of food so you better have something yummy on hand! i'm about to go make myself a blueberry pierogi just to know how it tastes myself 😭
this does touch on religious trauma and bi/homophobia, and the folklore has some dark elements, but overall this was a very enjoyable YA fantasy!
Spirits are hard to win over, but if you earn their loyalty, you have it forever.
that ending?!?! pls tell me there's a sequel on the way???!!!
an honest arc review ♡
_____________________
⊹₊｡ꕤ˚₊⊹ preread ⊹₊｡ꕤ˚₊⊹
i've seen this in a few moots' fav 2024 reads lists so i'm excited!
June 16, 2025
4.5 ☆
“You are the most infuriating spirit I’ve ever met, and I never want you to stop haunting me.”
i enjoyed this so much more than i thought i would. the Slavic folklore, characters, creatures, poly romance and world building as a whole was very refreshing and unique. i loved all 3 of the main characters: Gisela, Kazik and Aleksey. Gisela is a rambunctious water nymph, who was bursting with bubbly personality and sass in equal measure. Kazik is an exorcist of sorts, who’s 100% the type to be grumpy over the fact that he’s secretly a cinnamon roll. Aleksey is a bit of a mystery, but he’s got an aura to him that seems to draw people in. the plot with Gisela wanting to get a kiss from Aleksey in the hopes that she’d be able to become human again was honestly kinda sad.. the whole backstory of most of the water nymphs are. i quickly found myself backing her and wanting her to be successful, especially when it made her drag a reluctant Kazik along for the ride. the ending made me so upset that there’s no news yet on book 2, there’s no way I’m expected to be just move on from those implications !!
“You are the most infuriating spirit I’ve ever met, and I never want you to stop haunting me.”
i enjoyed this so much more than i thought i would. the Slavic folklore, characters, creatures, poly romance and world building as a whole was very refreshing and unique. i loved all 3 of the main characters: Gisela, Kazik and Aleksey. Gisela is a rambunctious water nymph, who was bursting with bubbly personality and sass in equal measure. Kazik is an exorcist of sorts, who’s 100% the type to be grumpy over the fact that he’s secretly a cinnamon roll. Aleksey is a bit of a mystery, but he’s got an aura to him that seems to draw people in. the plot with Gisela wanting to get a kiss from Aleksey in the hopes that she’d be able to become human again was honestly kinda sad.. the whole backstory of most of the water nymphs are. i quickly found myself backing her and wanting her to be successful, especially when it made her drag a reluctant Kazik along for the ride. the ending made me so upset that there’s no news yet on book 2, there’s no way I’m expected to be just move on from those implications !!
January 26, 2025
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly – this wasn’t a standalone? And no one told me? Insanely unresolved ending took me by surprise, but honestly I’m not mad, because I would absolutely read another book about this chaotic, highly amusing, beyond adorable trio.
“So, between delicious mouthfuls of dumplings, she told him… About the row houses painted in pastel colors and the witches who caught falling stars and brewed cocktails in teapots. About the gruesome sacrifices the queen made to keep the city from sinking and the great stone pillar engraves with the words “our love keeps us from drowning”.
This book was gorgeous!! I adore Slavic folklore and this absolutely hit the spot – it was filled with mischievous water nymphs, drowners, goblins, house spirits, DEMONS – it had it all, and I loved every bit of the worldbuilding and subsequent magical creatures. It was definitely a character-driven novel, but I didn’t mind at all, because I adored the characters!
“He knew, deep down, that there was nothing wrong or shameful about having many or multiple partners so long as everyone involved was happy. There wasn’t a right or a wrong way to love.”
Our rusalki protagonist, Gisela, was pure humour and trickery, and I was obsessed with her from page 1. Her banter-filled relationship with the local exorcist was actually beyond entertaining, they always had the best interactions and the messiest conversations – it was brilliant!! I love a flirty protagonist, and Gisela did NOT let me down.
“There was a particular twist to Kazik’s mouth. A scrunch to his nose. It was like learning the words of a secret language. She liked that she was getting to know a side of Kazik that very few people knew.”
Speaking of our resident exorcist – Kazik was the light of my life. Overly stubborn, slightly secluded, minimal social skills – oh he just made my year. Watching him be torn from his comfort zone (aggressively. By Gisela and her flirtations. Against his will) always made me laugh – and also made me swoon, because these two were such adorable rivals. Kazik was honestly a soft little sweetheart on the inside, and deserves the whole world and more!!
“He was trapped between them, with Gisela’s hands on his shoulders and Aleksey’s hands gripping his waist. The way they moved together made him ache for more. It kindled a hundred thousand wants he wasn’t supposed to have.”
And the third member of our messy, glorious little polyamorous trio – Aleksey. He had secrets upon secrets, but he truly rounded out the other two so well. A flirtatious, persistent, tricksy little menace – I thought he fit in so well with the other two, and I really adored the formation of their polyamorous relationship.
I honestly wish we’d gotten a little more of the other rusalki, and definitely of the big boss water goblin, because the relationship between Gisela and the water goblin king was so so precious. Truly a father-daughter bond that made me feel all warm and squishy inside. Plus Gisela’s sisterhood and friendship with her fellow water nymphs – I needed more of them all, and definitely of their (slightly terrifying) fascinating powers. Please show me a little more of those carved hair combs and what they can do! Each of the rusalki were so interesting, and while the stories of how they became water nymphs were absolutely devastating, I thought they were each really well written.
Overall, this was such a gorgeous read, with stunning folklore, fascinating (and loveable) characters, and a flirtation-filled, perfectly-chaotic poly trio. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC copy provided!
Firstly – this wasn’t a standalone? And no one told me? Insanely unresolved ending took me by surprise, but honestly I’m not mad, because I would absolutely read another book about this chaotic, highly amusing, beyond adorable trio.
“So, between delicious mouthfuls of dumplings, she told him… About the row houses painted in pastel colors and the witches who caught falling stars and brewed cocktails in teapots. About the gruesome sacrifices the queen made to keep the city from sinking and the great stone pillar engraves with the words “our love keeps us from drowning”.
This book was gorgeous!! I adore Slavic folklore and this absolutely hit the spot – it was filled with mischievous water nymphs, drowners, goblins, house spirits, DEMONS – it had it all, and I loved every bit of the worldbuilding and subsequent magical creatures. It was definitely a character-driven novel, but I didn’t mind at all, because I adored the characters!
“He knew, deep down, that there was nothing wrong or shameful about having many or multiple partners so long as everyone involved was happy. There wasn’t a right or a wrong way to love.”
Our rusalki protagonist, Gisela, was pure humour and trickery, and I was obsessed with her from page 1. Her banter-filled relationship with the local exorcist was actually beyond entertaining, they always had the best interactions and the messiest conversations – it was brilliant!! I love a flirty protagonist, and Gisela did NOT let me down.
“There was a particular twist to Kazik’s mouth. A scrunch to his nose. It was like learning the words of a secret language. She liked that she was getting to know a side of Kazik that very few people knew.”
Speaking of our resident exorcist – Kazik was the light of my life. Overly stubborn, slightly secluded, minimal social skills – oh he just made my year. Watching him be torn from his comfort zone (aggressively. By Gisela and her flirtations. Against his will) always made me laugh – and also made me swoon, because these two were such adorable rivals. Kazik was honestly a soft little sweetheart on the inside, and deserves the whole world and more!!
“He was trapped between them, with Gisela’s hands on his shoulders and Aleksey’s hands gripping his waist. The way they moved together made him ache for more. It kindled a hundred thousand wants he wasn’t supposed to have.”
And the third member of our messy, glorious little polyamorous trio – Aleksey. He had secrets upon secrets, but he truly rounded out the other two so well. A flirtatious, persistent, tricksy little menace – I thought he fit in so well with the other two, and I really adored the formation of their polyamorous relationship.
I honestly wish we’d gotten a little more of the other rusalki, and definitely of the big boss water goblin, because the relationship between Gisela and the water goblin king was so so precious. Truly a father-daughter bond that made me feel all warm and squishy inside. Plus Gisela’s sisterhood and friendship with her fellow water nymphs – I needed more of them all, and definitely of their (slightly terrifying) fascinating powers. Please show me a little more of those carved hair combs and what they can do! Each of the rusalki were so interesting, and while the stories of how they became water nymphs were absolutely devastating, I thought they were each really well written.
Overall, this was such a gorgeous read, with stunning folklore, fascinating (and loveable) characters, and a flirtation-filled, perfectly-chaotic poly trio. Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC copy provided!
August 15, 2024
''You couldn’t let yourself forget those pretty faces hid wicked hearts''
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Teen for providing this ARC!
She’s hilarious. She should have a podcast.
“Did—did your exorcism just”—Gisela’s voice dropped—“fail?” Mortification warred with shock for control of Kazik’s face. “Do you want to try again?” Gisela offered kindly.
She really would tweet that the hottest thing a man can do if be a little pathetic.
“Who was that girl with Kazik?” “No idea.” Aleksey sank down across from Roza on the picnic blanket; she’d spread it over the grass beneath a chestnut tree planted to guard the gravestones.
“She said she was his friend.”
“He has friends now?”
3.5/5
This was a fun, original YA story that does feel age appropriate yet does not shy away from themes that are often reserved for New Adult/Adult novels. The ambiguety when it comes to defining when this story takes place was actually a really nice touch, since it makes the story feel timeless enough to not have decade specific events or technology interfering with the plot, yet allowing the young characters to have personalities very close to what we would see in current 2020s teenagers, like how casual the Bisexual representation is.
I really enjoy Polish folklore being at the center of this story. Even though the creatures we’re following are not new, they feel almost as if they are, after the over-saturation of the other magical beings we tend to read about all the time.
Something about the tone of the writing didn’t quite click for me; it had all the elements that would make a gothic story yet sometimes it felt like it was written as a Disney Channel Original Movie. The mix was close to whimsical, as I was expecting from the synopsis, but not quite.
“Wait, Kazik!” He pulled the door shut. “I didn’t even get to eat my soup!”
The story could’ve been edited down. It felt like it went on for a bit too long, some conversations feeling a little pointless and information being repeated to us a few times, as if the author didn’t trust us to remember what had been said previously.
Though I appreciate the introduction of a polyamorous relationship, I feel like only the romance between two of the characters was developed to a point where I could see genuine feeling between them.
[“I’m really not.” Kazik struggled to force the smile back into the dark depths of his soul, where it belonged. He stood, dusting off his backside, avoiding eye contact. It would be pure madness to admit he was smiling because of an unholy terror like Gisela].
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Teen for providing this ARC!
She’s hilarious. She should have a podcast.
“Did—did your exorcism just”—Gisela’s voice dropped—“fail?” Mortification warred with shock for control of Kazik’s face. “Do you want to try again?” Gisela offered kindly.
She really would tweet that the hottest thing a man can do if be a little pathetic.
“Who was that girl with Kazik?” “No idea.” Aleksey sank down across from Roza on the picnic blanket; she’d spread it over the grass beneath a chestnut tree planted to guard the gravestones.
“She said she was his friend.”
“He has friends now?”
3.5/5
This was a fun, original YA story that does feel age appropriate yet does not shy away from themes that are often reserved for New Adult/Adult novels. The ambiguety when it comes to defining when this story takes place was actually a really nice touch, since it makes the story feel timeless enough to not have decade specific events or technology interfering with the plot, yet allowing the young characters to have personalities very close to what we would see in current 2020s teenagers, like how casual the Bisexual representation is.
I really enjoy Polish folklore being at the center of this story. Even though the creatures we’re following are not new, they feel almost as if they are, after the over-saturation of the other magical beings we tend to read about all the time.
Something about the tone of the writing didn’t quite click for me; it had all the elements that would make a gothic story yet sometimes it felt like it was written as a Disney Channel Original Movie. The mix was close to whimsical, as I was expecting from the synopsis, but not quite.
“Wait, Kazik!” He pulled the door shut. “I didn’t even get to eat my soup!”
The story could’ve been edited down. It felt like it went on for a bit too long, some conversations feeling a little pointless and information being repeated to us a few times, as if the author didn’t trust us to remember what had been said previously.
Though I appreciate the introduction of a polyamorous relationship, I feel like only the romance between two of the characters was developed to a point where I could see genuine feeling between them.
[“I’m really not.” Kazik struggled to force the smile back into the dark depths of his soul, where it belonged. He stood, dusting off his backside, avoiding eye contact. It would be pure madness to admit he was smiling because of an unholy terror like Gisela].
Currently reading
August 5, 2024August 5, 2024.
I've already read 2 polyam romances before this one, so my first pre-read review no longer applies. 😂 Still pretty excited though!
*I usually only read 1 book at a time but it's been difficult to make progress on my other read since it's a physical book, so I'm reading this eARC alongside it.
May 2024.
This is going to be my first second (kind-of third?) polyamorous romance read ever, so fingers crossed! 🤞 I'll be reading it a bit closer to the release date if I can help myself. 😭
I've already read 2 polyam romances before this one, so my first pre-read review no longer applies. 😂 Still pretty excited though!
*I usually only read 1 book at a time but it's been difficult to make progress on my other read since it's a physical book, so I'm reading this eARC alongside it.
May 2024.
Read
November 30, 2024I’m on BookTube now! =)
This book was such a great surprise!
I absolutely loved the world building and all the characters! I swear I never shipped a throuple so hard! Like, seriously, Gisela, Kazik and Aleksey were everything! <333
Also Kazik is my precious bi disaster boy and no one can persuade me otherwise! Loved him so much!
Full review to come soon-ish! ;-)
__________________________________
Okay, this comes a couple of days too late but let’s finally do this!
“This Fatal Kiss” is going to be my first #Rainboween read and I’m so curious about it!
I mean we have a folklore tale with a nymph, the son of a local witch and a love interest they both fall for while they also fall for each other?! Polyamorous rep is so rare and this is just perfect for my readathon! I think this will tick off many prompts from the bingo board! XD
I AM READY!
P.S: If you want to know more about #Rainboween and the bingo board just follow the link to my channel and IG! You can still join if you want to. ;-)
Find me on:
My Blog
Instagram
This book was such a great surprise!
I absolutely loved the world building and all the characters! I swear I never shipped a throuple so hard! Like, seriously, Gisela, Kazik and Aleksey were everything! <333
Also Kazik is my precious bi disaster boy and no one can persuade me otherwise! Loved him so much!
Full review to come soon-ish! ;-)
__________________________________
Okay, this comes a couple of days too late but let’s finally do this!
“This Fatal Kiss” is going to be my first #Rainboween read and I’m so curious about it!
I mean we have a folklore tale with a nymph, the son of a local witch and a love interest they both fall for while they also fall for each other?! Polyamorous rep is so rare and this is just perfect for my readathon! I think this will tick off many prompts from the bingo board! XD
I AM READY!
P.S: If you want to know more about #Rainboween and the bingo board just follow the link to my channel and IG! You can still join if you want to. ;-)
Find me on:
My Blog
Want to read
August 14, 2024ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ GOT THE ARC 😭😭 I can't read this muuch and my feedback ratio is like 17% UGHHHH
(also the cover is gorg)
(also the cover is gorg)
March 3, 2025
i thought this was a standalone i was bamboozled WHAT WAS THAT ENDING 😭😭😭😭
October 12, 2024
Reminded me of "The Bear and the Nightingale", "Little Thieves" and "Spirited Away" and these are all some of my favorite things. So of course I enjoyed this one as well. Now I'm hoping for a sequel ...
September 5, 2025
Teenage me would have been absolutely obsessed with this book.
I was drawn in by the stunning cover, and while I wasn't disappointed, I still wanted to love it more than I did. It's a beautiful, funny blend of Slavic folklore, whimsical fantasy, and slow-burn romance, set in an idyllic world — but sadly, the finale left me underwhelmed.
I was drawn in by the stunning cover, and while I wasn't disappointed, I still wanted to love it more than I did. It's a beautiful, funny blend of Slavic folklore, whimsical fantasy, and slow-burn romance, set in an idyllic world — but sadly, the finale left me underwhelmed.
January 31, 2025
I am so glad I've read this book as an adult because I can easily imagine my teenage self getting absolutely obsessed with this book and making it a center part of my personality.
For the past two days I was trying to decide how I should rate this book. The amount of fun I had was incredible, it gave me all the right feels and miraculously made me feel 16 again. I was kicking my feet, I was swooning, I was counting down the minutes till the moment I could pick up this book again. However, my enjoyment did not prevent me from noticing some flaws in the story.
We are following Gisela - a teenage girl that died a violent and premature death by the river and because of that she comes back to life as a rusalka - a water spirit bound to haunt the waterway till the moment she resolves all her grievances (then she can move to the afterlife) or will be kissed by the human (and then she will come back to life). Gisela is not ready to die-die yet so she is looking for someone to kiss her but although she still has a human form, getting a kiss is not that easy. First, because she does have some demonic and undead traits that are difficult to hide and second, because there is an overzealous exorcist, Kazik, keeping all the spirits in check. After botched exorcism Gisela finds out that Kazik's powers are diminished and forces him to help her get a kiss. Her eyes are set on Aleksey - a handsome young boy that stirs some emotions in Kazik as well.
The atmosphere of this book is straight out from the tales my grandma used to tell me when I was a child. When you stop and think about it the ambience is pretty grim because all of the characters are slightly sinister. Gisela flirts with young men and tries to drown them just for the fun of it; Wojtek, the water goblin, fiercely loves all his rusalki's but owns a great collection of human souls trapped in the teacups; Kazik tries to protect his town but refuses spirits the right to exist. They are all good and bad at the same time and that makes them feel real. In the realm of this book, death might not be the end of everything so its treated a bit lighter, someone trying to kill you is not that serious and this is very typical approach in the Slavic folklore I was growing up with.
Unfortunately I can't finish this review without mentioning the flaws. My main issue was with the worldbuilding, or the inconsistence of it. It feels vaguely like it is happening in XIX century setting but then there are modern elements that stick out and made me really confused. Rusalki and exorcist are governed by the strict set of rules till they are not, the pivot point of the plot comes out of blue, sets third act in motion but is resolved poorly, never to be mentioned again. There are moments where too many characters are introduced with majority of them show up only once or twice.
Is the story flawless? No. Can you give a book less than 5 stars if it makes you feel 10+ years younger? Also no.
For the past two days I was trying to decide how I should rate this book. The amount of fun I had was incredible, it gave me all the right feels and miraculously made me feel 16 again. I was kicking my feet, I was swooning, I was counting down the minutes till the moment I could pick up this book again. However, my enjoyment did not prevent me from noticing some flaws in the story.
We are following Gisela - a teenage girl that died a violent and premature death by the river and because of that she comes back to life as a rusalka - a water spirit bound to haunt the waterway till the moment she resolves all her grievances (then she can move to the afterlife) or will be kissed by the human (and then she will come back to life). Gisela is not ready to die-die yet so she is looking for someone to kiss her but although she still has a human form, getting a kiss is not that easy. First, because she does have some demonic and undead traits that are difficult to hide and second, because there is an overzealous exorcist, Kazik, keeping all the spirits in check. After botched exorcism Gisela finds out that Kazik's powers are diminished and forces him to help her get a kiss. Her eyes are set on Aleksey - a handsome young boy that stirs some emotions in Kazik as well.
The atmosphere of this book is straight out from the tales my grandma used to tell me when I was a child. When you stop and think about it the ambience is pretty grim because all of the characters are slightly sinister. Gisela flirts with young men and tries to drown them just for the fun of it; Wojtek, the water goblin, fiercely loves all his rusalki's but owns a great collection of human souls trapped in the teacups; Kazik tries to protect his town but refuses spirits the right to exist. They are all good and bad at the same time and that makes them feel real. In the realm of this book, death might not be the end of everything so its treated a bit lighter, someone trying to kill you is not that serious and this is very typical approach in the Slavic folklore I was growing up with.
Unfortunately I can't finish this review without mentioning the flaws. My main issue was with the worldbuilding, or the inconsistence of it. It feels vaguely like it is happening in XIX century setting but then there are modern elements that stick out and made me really confused. Rusalki and exorcist are governed by the strict set of rules till they are not, the pivot point of the plot comes out of blue, sets third act in motion but is resolved poorly, never to be mentioned again. There are moments where too many characters are introduced with majority of them show up only once or twice.
Is the story flawless? No. Can you give a book less than 5 stars if it makes you feel 10+ years younger? Also no.
August 11, 2024
4.5/5
This Slavic folktale inspired poly romantic fantasy was such a cheeky mischievous book! I absolutely adored every single second with the biggest grin on my face.
Gisela is a Rusałki, the spirit of a drowned girl. She has been causing mischief and havoc all across town in an effort to charm a kiss out of someone, as it is said that if a Rusałki kisses a mortal she will regain her humanity. However the biggest obstacle in her path (other than being dead) is Kazik, the resident exorcist. Ever since his grandmother died, Kazik has dedicated his days to ridding the world of the unholy creatures who haunt his town. After he catches the pesky water spirit who has consumed all his attention, Kazik tries to exorcise her once and for all. But his magic fails. Deciding to use this as an opportunity for blackmail, Gisela promises to keep Kazik’s waning power a secret if he helps her get her kiss. Kazik reluctantly agrees, but immediately regrets this pact when he realizes the boy Gisela has set her sights on is Alesky, the charming dashing boy from his childhood. As Gisela and Kazik spend their days getting to know Alesky, they both begin to fall for him. As well as with each other. However, Alesky might not be exactly who claims to be. And he may even be connected to Gisela’s death.
The entire concept of this book is phenomenal. Literally no notes it was perfect. I really loved the Slavic folklore infused throughout the story. The sisterhood amongst the Rusałki and the father figure that was Wojciech made the spirit world feel so homely and lovely. I loved the setting of Leśna Woda being a vacation town with their various bathhouses. And the glimpses we got of Gisela’s home island were fascinating (I just learned that she is from the same island Alicia’s other book The Dark Tide takes place in which is cool!) All the scenes felt like they were floating off the pages, they were so vivid and descriptive.
There is so much amazing queer representation in this book, even outside of our three bi/pan main characters. I loveeee love triangles where it’s actually a triangle because everyone loves everyone. There is so much flirting going on! I also really liked how the concept of gender was played around with. Gisela often mentions how she doesn’t always feel like a girl, but it’s too much work to explain it to everyone else. Alesky also has an interesting relationship with gender (can’t say much because spoilers).
I am a little confused as to the type of time period this takes place. The characters often use modern language and slang. But it’s mentioned how the world is just beginning to become more technologically advanced. There’s radios, but seemingly no telephones. It’s an interesting mix so I’m not upset about it. It plays well with the clashing of old world vs new world values, folklore vs religion, and the impact of modernization that pops up through the story.
The ending chapter was fairly abrupt. But that’s probably attributed to me thinking this was a standalone. It’s not! And now I’m so incredibly excited for the sequel (if we get it, we better get it or else). This was so whimsical and silly and cheeky and I had an amazing time.
Thank you so much NetGalley and PeachTree Teen for the eARC!!
This Slavic folktale inspired poly romantic fantasy was such a cheeky mischievous book! I absolutely adored every single second with the biggest grin on my face.
Gisela is a Rusałki, the spirit of a drowned girl. She has been causing mischief and havoc all across town in an effort to charm a kiss out of someone, as it is said that if a Rusałki kisses a mortal she will regain her humanity. However the biggest obstacle in her path (other than being dead) is Kazik, the resident exorcist. Ever since his grandmother died, Kazik has dedicated his days to ridding the world of the unholy creatures who haunt his town. After he catches the pesky water spirit who has consumed all his attention, Kazik tries to exorcise her once and for all. But his magic fails. Deciding to use this as an opportunity for blackmail, Gisela promises to keep Kazik’s waning power a secret if he helps her get her kiss. Kazik reluctantly agrees, but immediately regrets this pact when he realizes the boy Gisela has set her sights on is Alesky, the charming dashing boy from his childhood. As Gisela and Kazik spend their days getting to know Alesky, they both begin to fall for him. As well as with each other. However, Alesky might not be exactly who claims to be. And he may even be connected to Gisela’s death.
The entire concept of this book is phenomenal. Literally no notes it was perfect. I really loved the Slavic folklore infused throughout the story. The sisterhood amongst the Rusałki and the father figure that was Wojciech made the spirit world feel so homely and lovely. I loved the setting of Leśna Woda being a vacation town with their various bathhouses. And the glimpses we got of Gisela’s home island were fascinating (I just learned that she is from the same island Alicia’s other book The Dark Tide takes place in which is cool!) All the scenes felt like they were floating off the pages, they were so vivid and descriptive.
There is so much amazing queer representation in this book, even outside of our three bi/pan main characters. I loveeee love triangles where it’s actually a triangle because everyone loves everyone. There is so much flirting going on! I also really liked how the concept of gender was played around with. Gisela often mentions how she doesn’t always feel like a girl, but it’s too much work to explain it to everyone else. Alesky also has an interesting relationship with gender (can’t say much because spoilers).
I am a little confused as to the type of time period this takes place. The characters often use modern language and slang. But it’s mentioned how the world is just beginning to become more technologically advanced. There’s radios, but seemingly no telephones. It’s an interesting mix so I’m not upset about it. It plays well with the clashing of old world vs new world values, folklore vs religion, and the impact of modernization that pops up through the story.
The ending chapter was fairly abrupt. But that’s probably attributed to me thinking this was a standalone. It’s not! And now I’m so incredibly excited for the sequel (if we get it, we better get it or else). This was so whimsical and silly and cheeky and I had an amazing time.
Thank you so much NetGalley and PeachTree Teen for the eARC!!
March 6, 2025
Considering it took me two months to get around to finishing this I don’t think I can possibly rate it higher. A bit unsatisfying because I didn’t realize it wasn’t a standalone. Cute and funny at times but overall just fine.
February 2, 2025
I received an ARC from Edelweiss
TW: drowning, abuse, references to sexual assault, physical assault, struggles with sexual identity & biphobia, suicidal ideation, death of a grandparent, infidelity
4.2
Overly modern feeling fantasy worlds tend to really irk me, and Jasinska does write a lot of this feeling like she was on Twitter at the same time. So it took me a little while to really get into the story.
However, the tone, and Gisela herself, did slowly grow on me. Actually, while the tone & memes mostly just got to the point of being ignorable, Gisela is a character I wound up liking a lot. She's fairly unserious, and is no brave heroine, but it's hard not to get roped into her schemes- just ask Kazik.
The dynamics in this book were also great- there are a lot of friendships and bonds that were well written to the point of making the characters themselves so much more impactful. The romances too, while feeling overly quick to me, create some interesting and easy to get invested in dynamic. But my favorite was actually the paternal relationship Gisela as with the river goblin.
I'm excited to see this progress, in book two, towards polyamory, and the insanity that's going to be, considering the characters involved. I'm so glad the foundation was set here, and set well.
I do wish that Kazik's powers failing had been more of a plot point, instead of a one-time event that got referenced a few times now and then. It was painted as important, but isn't really treated as so. Other than that, my only real complaint is, again, that the romance didn't feel that organic in its start. I like the characters together, but, especially with how much would have to be dealt with just to even consider liking each other, it seemed like quick jump from dealing with each other to big romantic feelings.
TW: drowning, abuse, references to sexual assault, physical assault, struggles with sexual identity & biphobia, suicidal ideation, death of a grandparent, infidelity
4.2
Overly modern feeling fantasy worlds tend to really irk me, and Jasinska does write a lot of this feeling like she was on Twitter at the same time. So it took me a little while to really get into the story.
However, the tone, and Gisela herself, did slowly grow on me. Actually, while the tone & memes mostly just got to the point of being ignorable, Gisela is a character I wound up liking a lot. She's fairly unserious, and is no brave heroine, but it's hard not to get roped into her schemes- just ask Kazik.
The dynamics in this book were also great- there are a lot of friendships and bonds that were well written to the point of making the characters themselves so much more impactful. The romances too, while feeling overly quick to me, create some interesting and easy to get invested in dynamic. But my favorite was actually the paternal relationship Gisela as with the river goblin.
I'm excited to see this progress, in book two, towards polyamory, and the insanity that's going to be, considering the characters involved. I'm so glad the foundation was set here, and set well.
I do wish that Kazik's powers failing had been more of a plot point, instead of a one-time event that got referenced a few times now and then. It was painted as important, but isn't really treated as so. Other than that, my only real complaint is, again, that the romance didn't feel that organic in its start. I like the characters together, but, especially with how much would have to be dealt with just to even consider liking each other, it seemed like quick jump from dealing with each other to big romantic feelings.
March 8, 2025
The cozy fantasy that came at the right time. It was light fantasy though there are some darker themes inside. The MC was fun, likable and so unserious. I enjoyed the polyamory aspect of this book, fun to read even though you might ship one couple more than the other. Interesting worldbuilding and I think there will be a sequel.
November 29, 2024
Whimsical and fast-paced despite also feeling incomplete and long-winded
It’s not often I see descriptions of YA books featuring polyamory and I’m a sucker for mermaid or mermaid-adjacent stories. This journey through various mysteries related to creatures from Slavic folklore was one that held my attention firmly from start to finish.
The nuisance to lovers element that takes place in the forefront between our two main leads, an undead water nymph and the local agitated exorcist she loves to pester, was fun. And the worldbuilding was wildly interesting in this small town with creatures both hidden and very much so known.
But it’s also in the worldbuilding that I regularly found myself frustrated. It’s a fictional, fantastical world based (somewhat) on our own but there is not solid time period the setting is based on/in. I originally thought the setting would be hundreds of years ago but then there was a mention of a telephone and Gisela making fun of Kazik’s god by calling him “sky daddy” which all felt too modern (and too tumblr). The setting feels suspended loosely in time in a way that feels less intentional and more accidental. It’s like the author wanted the aesthetics and vibe of a renaissance festival but in the worst, most incomplete way.
I also found myself underwhelmed with Gisela’s exploration and subplot on her role as the eldest daughter in her household. She speaks often about the pressures of being parentified and constantly watch over her younger brother but then also last minute throws in how much she loves her brother more than anything. So much of any genuine feelings of love gets lost in her not being able to acknowledge the existence of her sibling without bringing up how much she loathes taking care of him. Not one happy memory removed from her resentment? Ever ?? It was strange and something I wish could’ve been expanded on.
The mystery surrounding Gisela’s death/murder, though, was very compelling- especially with the added layer of potentially regaining her humanity. The end was weirdly abrupt ? So I guess this isn’t the standalone I thought it was going into it. I’m curious to see how a throuple would be developed further beyond what we’ve seen so far.
CW: death, grief, murder, violence, brief references to past rape/sexual assault, brief biphobia
It’s not often I see descriptions of YA books featuring polyamory and I’m a sucker for mermaid or mermaid-adjacent stories. This journey through various mysteries related to creatures from Slavic folklore was one that held my attention firmly from start to finish.
The nuisance to lovers element that takes place in the forefront between our two main leads, an undead water nymph and the local agitated exorcist she loves to pester, was fun. And the worldbuilding was wildly interesting in this small town with creatures both hidden and very much so known.
But it’s also in the worldbuilding that I regularly found myself frustrated. It’s a fictional, fantastical world based (somewhat) on our own but there is not solid time period the setting is based on/in. I originally thought the setting would be hundreds of years ago but then there was a mention of a telephone and Gisela making fun of Kazik’s god by calling him “sky daddy” which all felt too modern (and too tumblr). The setting feels suspended loosely in time in a way that feels less intentional and more accidental. It’s like the author wanted the aesthetics and vibe of a renaissance festival but in the worst, most incomplete way.
I also found myself underwhelmed with Gisela’s exploration and subplot on her role as the eldest daughter in her household. She speaks often about the pressures of being parentified and constantly watch over her younger brother but then also last minute throws in how much she loves her brother more than anything. So much of any genuine feelings of love gets lost in her not being able to acknowledge the existence of her sibling without bringing up how much she loathes taking care of him. Not one happy memory removed from her resentment? Ever ?? It was strange and something I wish could’ve been expanded on.
The mystery surrounding Gisela’s death/murder, though, was very compelling- especially with the added layer of potentially regaining her humanity. The end was weirdly abrupt ? So I guess this isn’t the standalone I thought it was going into it. I’m curious to see how a throuple would be developed further beyond what we’ve seen so far.
CW: death, grief, murder, violence, brief references to past rape/sexual assault, brief biphobia
March 5, 2025
I have no idea what this book is about, but the cover is so intriguing that I have to give it a try.
4⭐️
Three dumb bisexuals—I loved every second of their banter.
But is there a second book? Because that was not a complete story. I have questions!
4⭐️
Three dumb bisexuals—I loved every second of their banter.
But is there a second book? Because that was not a complete story. I have questions!
October 15, 2025
2.5 ⭐ Non dico che il mio cuore si è spezzato, ma sicuramente si è crepato un pochino. Mi aspettavo molto di più. Maledette copertine meravigliose, adesso che ci penso evviva le copertine fatte con l'intelligenza artificiale brutte come la morte che almeno non mi attirano a libri mediocri come una falena verso la luce.
è un libro sicuramente leggero, si legge in fretta, probabilmente ve lo consiglierei se siete in blocco. Ma non vale 24 eurini, anche questo ve lo posso assicurare. Scrittura molto terra terra, quasi colloquiale, e il poliamore secondo me non è reso bene. Due dei tre protagonisti hanno un minimo di personalità e di chimica, ma il terzo...non mi verrebbe neanche da chiamarlo protagonista. Sembra lì per fare numero. In più, abbiamo un bel finale troncato che non gioca a favore della trama, piuttosto prevedibile, che avrebbe favorito di un finale forte.
Non è il libro peggiore che io abbia mai letto, è semplicemente mediocre. Ve lo consiglierei se volete un libro leggero, se vi è piaciuto Where the dark stands still, se siete alle prime armi con il fantasy e volete tastare le acque (infestate da spiriti vendicativi).
è un libro sicuramente leggero, si legge in fretta, probabilmente ve lo consiglierei se siete in blocco. Ma non vale 24 eurini, anche questo ve lo posso assicurare. Scrittura molto terra terra, quasi colloquiale, e il poliamore secondo me non è reso bene. Due dei tre protagonisti hanno un minimo di personalità e di chimica, ma il terzo...non mi verrebbe neanche da chiamarlo protagonista. Sembra lì per fare numero. In più, abbiamo un bel finale troncato che non gioca a favore della trama, piuttosto prevedibile, che avrebbe favorito di un finale forte.
Non è il libro peggiore che io abbia mai letto, è semplicemente mediocre. Ve lo consiglierei se volete un libro leggero, se vi è piaciuto Where the dark stands still, se siete alle prime armi con il fantasy e volete tastare le acque (infestate da spiriti vendicativi).
June 17, 2024
This was fantastic! A love triangle mixed with Slavic folklore! I was wondering before I picked it up if it would be too sappy, but it wasn’t at all. It had just the right amount of tension. I highly recommend this and am looking forward to the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Teen for an advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Teen for an advance copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
November 26, 2024
alright why didn’t anyone tell me this isn’t a standalone 😭😭😭
August 31, 2024
2024 reads: 245/250
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
gisela is a water nymph who has been cursed to haunt the river running through the town in which she drowned. she wants nothing more than to return to her normal life…which she finds out may be possible with one kiss from a mortal. getting this kiss may be harder than she thought, since everyone sees her as a monster, including kazik, the spirit-hunter she’s recruited to help her. but when kazik falls for the same person gisela has her sights set on, things get a little messy.
i’ve read and loved one other book by alicia jasinska, so i was expecting to at least really enjoy this one, too. this was a lot different, but i still really loved it! the slavic folklore aspect immediately drew me in. this is something that really interests me, but i haven’t found many books that incorporate this element. i loved how many different beings (biesy, rusałki, etc.) were discussed.
in addition to the slavic folklore, i also loved the characters themselves. each one was so complex, even aleksey, who wasn’t as prominent of a character as gisela and kazik (though still important). i loved seeing their character growth and how their relationship developed.
overall, this was a fantastic book, and i highly recommend it to readers who enjoy ya fantasy.
i received an advanced review copy from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review. this did not affect my rating.
gisela is a water nymph who has been cursed to haunt the river running through the town in which she drowned. she wants nothing more than to return to her normal life…which she finds out may be possible with one kiss from a mortal. getting this kiss may be harder than she thought, since everyone sees her as a monster, including kazik, the spirit-hunter she’s recruited to help her. but when kazik falls for the same person gisela has her sights set on, things get a little messy.
i’ve read and loved one other book by alicia jasinska, so i was expecting to at least really enjoy this one, too. this was a lot different, but i still really loved it! the slavic folklore aspect immediately drew me in. this is something that really interests me, but i haven’t found many books that incorporate this element. i loved how many different beings (biesy, rusałki, etc.) were discussed.
in addition to the slavic folklore, i also loved the characters themselves. each one was so complex, even aleksey, who wasn’t as prominent of a character as gisela and kazik (though still important). i loved seeing their character growth and how their relationship developed.
overall, this was a fantastic book, and i highly recommend it to readers who enjoy ya fantasy.
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December 22, 2024I don't know why this is still on my Currently Reading shelf. I am certainly not still reading it. I lost interest at the point where our male MC is complaining that the parish priest is "mean" because he "won't let him" steal blessed candles from the church for his cute little witchcraft rituals
And what I don't understand, above all, is how I'm supposed to believe that this guy has any power or even any competency in the supernatural realm if he has to steal blessed objects? Instead of just making his own? "the spirits are totally going to bend to my will"... sir, the spirits ARE NOT AFRAID OF YOU
And what I don't understand, above all, is how I'm supposed to believe that this guy has any power or even any competency in the supernatural realm if he has to steal blessed objects? Instead of just making his own? "the spirits are totally going to bend to my will"... sir, the spirits ARE NOT AFRAID OF YOU
June 5, 2025
4.5 stars
I had a good feeling about This Fatal Kiss, and my good feeling was correct. I love the characters, the world feels so magical, and while some aspects of the plot were a bit obvious I was having such a good time it didn't matter.
I read this up on audio and the narrator, Kristyna Ruth Zaharek, does an amazing job! I enjoyed this book so much, I picked up a physical copy (the cover is gorgeous!!).
I had a good feeling about This Fatal Kiss, and my good feeling was correct. I love the characters, the world feels so magical, and while some aspects of the plot were a bit obvious I was having such a good time it didn't matter.
I read this up on audio and the narrator, Kristyna Ruth Zaharek, does an amazing job! I enjoyed this book so much, I picked up a physical copy (the cover is gorgeous!!).
April 23, 2025
the folklore and setting was beautifully fleshed out, as well as the main characters. the romance was so great until the last chapter. like… very disappointing! it didn’t feel right after all of the confusing emotions the characters have been processing. don’t market a romance book the way you did if it ends like that!
thank you to netgalley for the arc!
thank you to netgalley for the arc!
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June 26, 2025A lush, gorgeous, queer fantasy full of spirits, and a bit of romance. Give this to fans of Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away and Holly Black's The Cruel Prince. The characters and the plot kept me on the edge of my seat! Can't wait to see what happens for Gisela, Kazik, and Aleksey!
July 4, 2025
RTC ❤️
October 23, 2024
three 3/4 stars!
this was really lovely, especially the beginning and early middle parts where we got to learn about gisela and her situation, it was all set up well and she was so charming.
i liked the boys as well, but gisela was definitely more compelling and kept me around. i would have loved some more interactions with the other water nymphs, but gisela's desires are the forefront of the story so i understand why we were away from that a lot of the time.
the plot was simple, and executed quite well, though the middle and the end i found harder to get through and i wasnt reading quite so much everyday as i was at the beginning.
love love love all the lgbt rep in this book, so refreshing honestly
this was really lovely, especially the beginning and early middle parts where we got to learn about gisela and her situation, it was all set up well and she was so charming.
i liked the boys as well, but gisela was definitely more compelling and kept me around. i would have loved some more interactions with the other water nymphs, but gisela's desires are the forefront of the story so i understand why we were away from that a lot of the time.
the plot was simple, and executed quite well, though the middle and the end i found harder to get through and i wasnt reading quite so much everyday as i was at the beginning.
love love love all the lgbt rep in this book, so refreshing honestly
November 27, 2024
I mean, with that kind of ending, we need another book, right? RIGHT?
April 2, 2025
I picked this up wanting something quick and easy and it was even better than I expected. I loved the incorporation of Slavic folklore and aspects of the culture too, I appreciated that the love triangle was ACTUALLY a triangle and not a love 90 degree angle. The ending though...I thought this was supposed to be a standalone?? Now I'm left on a cliffhanger. It was still amazing though!
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