Everyone I’ve cared about has left me. My coven. My mate. Even my sister — the only person I ever truly cared about. All of them walked away.
I’ve accepted my fate to be alone. My forest is enough for me and I have no intention of leaving it. But fate has something else in mind.
The cursed werewolf who stole my heart for a night — and broke it at dawn — has returned with grim news. Someone has taken both our sisters, and we must work together to save them. But if my enemies discover I’ve left my forest, they’ll stop at nothing to capture me.
And I’ll be putting all my trust in a person who loathes my existence...
LOVE IS A CURSE
Everyone I’ve cared about has suffered from love. I refuse to be bound by it. This kingdom is cruel and devious, which suits me fine because I’m just as wicked and far more clever.
But there is one person I love—my sister. And she’s vanished along with her lover — the damn witch’s sister.
I’ll do whatever it takes to get her back. Including returning to the witch who deceived me for a night. I may be a wolf trapped in human skin, but it won’t stop me from ripping out her heart once my sister is safe.
Because I’m a cursed werewolf…and it was the witches who damned me.
Of Silver and Curses is a spicy queer romantasy stand-alone featuring fated mates... who are very much not happy about it. Perfect for fans of stabby morally grey characters, forced proximity, banter and all the found family vibes.
Maddox Grey is a queer nonbinary elder millennial who still remembers vividly what it was like to be emotionally damaged by the season two finale of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
They write morally grey characters who fall for equally unhinged morally grey love interests. And the banter flows as fast as the action in the stories they craft.
When they’re not putting their characters through hell, Maddox is playing video games, reading smut, burying their nose in comic books, or hiding behind a pillow while they watch horror movies.
NOTE FROM AUTHOR: Hey there! I'm rarely on this site, only popping over occasionally to make sure my books updated correctly. If you have any questions for me, please use the contact form on my website or message me on Instagram : )
If you’re curious about what I’m reading, you can follow my “reviews” here. Personally I’m not comfortable publicly reviewing other authors books. So if I enjoyed it, it gets five stars from me, lol. My taste in books is… chaotic… but mostly some flavor of fantasy.
I got an ARC of this title and made it to about 38% before deciding to DNF. While the premise was promising, the pacing/characters/writing style didn’t quite work for me personally. I really appreciate the opportunity to read it early, and I’m sure it’ll find the right readers—it just wasn’t for me.
⋆。˚꒰ঌ 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 ໒꒱˚。⋆
• Adult Romantasy (not YA) • Non-binary character representation ( One of the MC) • Werewolf x Witch • Lust-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic • Extremely detailed spice scenes (open-door, mature content) • Heavy fantasy worldbuilding • ⚠️ Recommended for adult readers only
𝑷𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒆 : 24th June
When I picked this up , I didn’t thought that it would have THIS MUCH spiceand that too in the begging and this is the sole reason for why I am dnfing it. Although I completely understand why people love this book , I didn’t knew it wasn’t for YA I’m not familiar enough with this genre.But if you like to read Drake Romantasy genre then you might like this book!
જ⁀➴ ♡ 𝐏𝐫𝐞-𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ⋆ 𐙚 ̊┈➤ Omgg the cover is stunning 😍 I just got approved for an eARC 💃🏻💃🏻 Thank you NetGalley,Maddox Grey and Victor editing for providing this e -arc in exchange for an honest review!!
Honestly all the freaking stars. The chokehold that this had me in was intense.
I read the prequel first and I think that was definitely the way to go. It made me invested in the characters right away and gave me a solid backstory so I was able to jump right in.
I loved both characters. Sometimes I wanted to smack their heads together but stil loved. Their freaking tension and their BANTER. There's so much chemistry between them it was flying off the page and it made the spicy scenes that much better.
The plot? Delicious. There were no lulls and nothing that was sped over. It kept you interested all the way through and made you invested in the side characters as well. You just wanted to know what was going to happen at all times. Literally could not recommend enough.
thank you to mtmc tours and the author for this gifted arc
Whenever I write a review for a book I adored, it just sounds so chaotic and feral. Sorry not sorry. This will be much the same.
Set several years after the novella (Of Melodies and Maledictions, which you should read first for max emotional payoff), Of Silver and Curses gives me everything I want in queer romantasy: amazing rep, great characters, found family, and feels. It also has amazingly unique magic, yearning, curses, and a romance that is somehow both tender and intense.
Talon and Scythe have the kind of tension that simmers through every chapter. They're out to save their sapphic little sisters like the older, wiser, more jaded siblings they are. But that doesn't mean they have to LIKE each other. Well, maybe a little. Maybe a lot. It has some bitterness, some regret, lots of attraction, and that aching pining that I love in this kind of story. Their dynamic is so layered, from mutual resentment to reluctant partnership to…well, everything that comes after. The longing. The banter. The spice. THE SPICE. It’s all so good. Talon's nonbinary identity is not only respected but also explained in a way that fits organically into the world and story. The mental health rep, the abandonment issues, the complexity of trust between two people who have every reason to keep their guard up. It all hit perfectly.
The worldbuilding is also a standout. I love the witchy magic, the complexities of the gods, and curses. Everything in here shapes the world. There's a richness here that feels big, even in a standalone, and the writing balances humor, action, and emotional depth like a pro.
It’s all just so satisfying. Maddox Grey (a.k.a. Alex Frost) really knows how to pack a punch in their stories. Of Silver and Curses is a fierce, funny, deeply felt ride with characters you’ll root for, magic you’ll want to explore, and a love story that lingers. Queer romantasy just hits different, and this one is an absolute gem. If you struggle with the romantasy genre, just read queer romantasy. It's PEAK.
Thanks so much to the author and Behind the Pages for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
I am part of Maddox Grey’s ARC/Hype team and I feel so privileged to have received an ARC copy.
Dual POV between two mortally grey characters? Check
💫Witch of the Woods with Last Unicorn vibes…. But stabby? Check
💫Non-binary cursed werewolf with cruel prince meets Robin Hood vibes? Check
💫Forced Proximity (one bed, one horse) vibes? Check
💫Enemies to reluctant allies to burn the world down lover vibes? Check
💫Banter + found family vibes? Check
Oh and the Spice 🤌🏻 check!!
Of Silver and and Curses is the first book in the Lingering Fates series but is a stand-alone so we get everything wrapped in a pretty bow while leaving you wanting more and eager for the next book!
TBH This was my first time reading about a main non-binary character and I loved it so much! It just makes sense!
Scythe and Talon are my favourite stab happy couple and Maddox just knocked it out of the park!
And yes I can guess who the next book will be about! 🤐
I love everything that Maddox writes and when inducing new themes/things it’s always written so beautifully the story just unfolds as it does and I don’t question anything because it all makes sense!
I trust Maddox so much that I always hit the preorder button and love every story they release!
Even though I received an ARC you bet your a*s I’m still purchasing the kindle version because I love it so much! Also time to think about another physical book for my bookshelf?
Also! Go ahead and read the free prequel novella “Of Melodies and Maledictions” as it gives further insight on how Scythe and Talon met and why they start off as they do in Of Silver and Curses.
It’s not essential but it’s worth it! Plus it’s free and enough to whet the appetite while waiting for this one to release!
Of Silver and Curses is the first of Maddox Grey’s newest series of fantastical interconnected standalones. ✨It’s packed full of witches, werewolves, magic, fae, mages, and other supernatural friends & foes. 💜The found family vibes are immaculate, and the world is unique and queernormative! 🌳For fans of Maddox’s Lost Legacies series: the wit, humor, and spice (🌶️🌶️🌶️) are still perfection! 🎢Prepare for a rollercoaster of every emotion imaginable. 🎶 ALSO, music is a big part of the witch’s magic, which I love
Read for all of that ^ plus: 🐺 lovers ➡️ enemies ➡️ reluctant partners ➡️ lovers 🐺unmatched banter & chemistry 🐺 a quest including masquerades, action, spice, and trickery 🐺 dual POV
Maddox proves their ability yet again with this book - fantastically dark morally grey characters, hilarious banter, delicious spice, incredible world building and a unique magic system. I loved this book from the very beginning and I'm excited to see what will come next in this world - I'm definitely hoping for more Ryllae and Caspian!
This was a really enjoyable first book in a series of interconnected standalones. I'm already looking forward to the next one!
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book but I really enjoyed the characters, the banter, the inclusiveness and the magic!
The FMC Scythe is a witch and she is badass. I loved how fiercely protective she was but also she felt lonely and this brought out the emotions in her character.
Our other main character Talon is non-binary and let me tell you they come across as hot as hell. There's nothing better than a character who is gorgeous and they know it! Again, similar to the FMC they are fiercely protective.
The banter was flowing between these two. They both struggle with their feelings towards each other at the start but put differences aside to go on this quest to save their sisters who are in a relationship together. There was a perfect blend of spice and plot. There's found family and we meet characters who I hope we see more of in future books! The spice scenes hit at the right moments because the chemistry between these two is fantastic.
The side characters are so interesting. There's found family vibes and one character in particular, Ryllae, is so intriguing I am hoping that one of the books (i hope the next one) focuses on them! All the characters bring a mix of humour. There's so much banter and sarcasm flying about it had me giggling throughout the book.
"Other people might think Ryllae is evil because of their magic, but I personally think it's because they're a morning person."
The magic system in this story is so unique and I loved that Scythes magic is linked to music and nature. This leads to us having animals included in the story. Talon's curse is painful for them and we see their struggles with this. We meet gods along the way and how their reluctance to stay out of the issues in this realm has led to trouble.
Let's just give a big shout out to the author who as a queer non-binary person has really created a beautiful world with non binary representation and this is rare in fantasy! I loved that we had characters correct other characters on pronouns, there's a history of how Talon discovered they were non binary, how people in this world recognise non binary people and also the author describes different kinds of non binary characters (Talon is more masc leaning and Ryllae is more androgynous).
I had a great time reading this story and I can't wait for the next instalment in this series. I have my hopes on who it will focus on but to be honest I'll be happy with it being about any of the characters from this book!
Thank you to Victory Editing, the author and NetGalley for the arc. This is my own honest review of this book.
Of Silver and Curses by Maddox Grey ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 out of 5 stars)
This book surprised me in the best way.
Of Silver and Curses throws you right into a dark, magical world where witches and cursed werewolves are forced to work together, even though they’d much rather rip each other apart. And honestly? I was here for the tension, the grudges, and the pain-filled history between the two leads. Nothing about their relationship is neat or romanticized—it’s messy, bitter, and full of sharp edges. Loved that.
One thing I really appreciated: the main character is non-binary, and it’s just part of who they are. No big dramatic explanation, no clunky handling—it just is, and it’s done really well. That alone already gave this book points from me.
The worldbuilding was strong, the atmosphere hit that perfect mix of haunting and magical, and there were a few twists that actually caught me off guard (rare, honestly). I was invested, I cared about what was happening, and the emotional stakes felt real.
That said… I did feel like some things lacked depth. There were moments, especially with the characters’ past and their emotional baggage, that could’ve gone a bit deeper. Some scenes felt like they ended too soon or didn’t dig all the way into what was really there. And I wanted more. Not in a “bad writing” way—but more like, “you almost got me crying, go a little further next time.”
Final take? A solid romantasy with bite, tension, and a world I’d gladly return to. If you like enemies (maybe lovers?), curses, fierce vibes, and broken characters trying to survive side-by-side, this one’s definitely worth picking up.
ENGLISH REVIEW: this book was such a surprise!!! i found the plot soooo interesting and i was hooked on since page 1. i’ve loved the non-binary representation and i’m OBSESSED with talon. it’s been a long time since i was so attracted to a mc (oopsie). i need to highlight that there’s A LOT of spice, and although usually these scenes give me a little cringe, it was not the case heheheheh (talon the wolf that you are). i also loved scythe and i found their relationship quite interesting, although i didn’t feel a true love bond. for me it was more like partners with lots of sex chem. the only drawback in my opinion was that i didn’t quite understand everything around the world the author has created or even the magic. i found myself lost on some occasions but i really want to read the next book and i hope it’s about ryllae!!!
SPANISH REVIEW: este libro ha sido toda una sorpresa!!! la trama me ha parecido súper interesante y me ha enganchado desde la primera página. me ha encantado la representación no binaria y estoy OBSESIONADA con talon. hacía mucho tiempo que no me atraía tanto un personaje (ups). cabe destacar que hay muuuucho spicy y escenas sexuales explícitas, y aunque suelo encontrarlas bastante cringe, esta vez no ha sido el caso jejejejjeje. también he amado a scythe y su relación me ha parecido muy interesante, aunque no he notado una unión de amor verdadero, sino de compañeros con una gran química sexual. la única pega en mi opinión es que no he terminado de entender todo lo que se explica sobre el mundo y la magia, y en ocasiones me encontraba algo perdida. aun así, estoy deseando leer el siguiente y espero que sea de ryllae!!!
OK I loved this. LOVED IT. And I desperately want more in this world!
The world building in this is just - perfect. There are witches, fae, wolf shifters, mages, different kingdoms and rulers, tragic pasts with loss and suffering, meddling gods, an amazing queernormative setting, and so many more people I want to know more about!
As far as our main couple, Scythe and Talon are just - SO good together! There is excellent banter, UST, and so many feels in the things that aren't said. Scythe is strong and after tragedy is used to relying only on herself, and I just love her and her letting Talon in and softening towards them. And let's talk about Talon - they are such a great character, and I loved their POV chapters. Those looking to add more nonbinary representation in your fantasy romance, this is what you need to pick up!
There are some graphic moments - first off, this is an adult romance so there are open door scenes, and then both MCs aren't afraid of getting down and dirty in their fighting and methods to get answers. Nothing toooooo bad, I would say personally, but definitely some graphic fight scenes.
I couldn't put this one down. And now I'm desperately hoping that Ryllae's story is next.
I received a copy for an instagram book tour, my thoughts are my own.
Y’ALL. This was the spicy queer romantasy of my dreams. I think I also may have found another new favorite author to add to my ever growing list! I did not want to put this book down once I started it, and I was very unhappy to have to do that multiple times.
But I digress. I read the prequel novella - Of Melodies and Maledictions - before starting this one, and I absolutely loved the introduction we got to Scythe and Talon. We were able to get a good understanding of what drove each of them in the novella, and a large part of that for each of our 2 main characters was protecting their sisters.
When their sisters mysteriously vanish together, Talon sets off to find Scythe in her forest to request her help in finding the girls. The ensuing story that follows is a masterpiece.
The world building and lore in this book are incredible, and I can’t wait to see more of the complexities of this world and story unfold in the rest of this series of interconnected standalones.
This book has everything I love - fated mates; stabby, morally grey characters, found family, all the banter, forced proximity, werewolves, witches, spice to die for, and so much more. I also love that one of our main characters is nonbinary.
The banter between Scythe and Talon was top notch. The tension between them was also written beautifully. And the spicy…was SPICY 🌶️🥵
If you’re looking for a quick and fun read with all the spice but also all the plot, look no further than Of Silver and Curses! I promise, you won’t be disappointed. 🖤
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me early access to this eARC.
4.25. This was an excellent paranormal fantasy romance. This book is about Scythe who is the last witch of the woods and Talon who is a cursed werewolf. Both of their sisters mysteriously disappeared from a travelling troupe. Talon sets off to find Scythe and they both go on an adventure to find their sisters.
First, this book takes place following a prequel novella that details how Scythe and Talon meet. This is not necessary to read prior as the main points are touched upon in this book. However, I do recommend you read because it was excellent and give great background as to their enemy status.
I thoroughly enjoyed both the adventure and the romance in this book. I enjoyed the unique aspect to Scythe’s magic and I have not read about a cursed werewolf before. It made for a very interesting read. From the very beginning, I was intrigued. I felt like the pacing was great and never became bored with the story.
I loved the romance in this book. Talon is the first nonbinary main character I have read and the author did an excellent job featuring them. This book is extremely spicy and it would be helpful to look up trigger warnings.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book. I loved it. And cannot wait to read more in this series and more by this author.
I've read Of Silver and Curses by Maddox Grey, gifted by Netgalley and Greymalkin Press as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
The story is about Scythe, the last Witch of the Woods. Her sister Astria is in love with Ravyn, the sister of Talon, a cursed wolf. Astria leaves her sister behind but after a while Talon finds out that Astria and Ravyn are gone. They are going to search them and they will get the help of Scythe to find their sisters.
It's a wonderful fantastic story where all characters are morally grey and they don't mind killing other people, filthy language and the spice is very detailed.
For me it deserves a 5 star rating and I can't wait to get a physical copy of this book.
Do you want a book with angst? With not just one mating bond but a double mating bond? Werewolf curses & scythe wilding witches? Hot hate s*x? Found family? Undeniable chemistry and an underlying secondary plot that hints to future books? THEN LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO 'Of Silver and Curses'!
I ate a lot of this book up. At one point, I was so engrossed in the book I looked up, and it was 9 pm, and I had missed lunch & and dinner, lol
I think I might be reentering my werewolf mating bonds/ second chance phase (although lets be real I never left fully) because this book reignited the giggles and many blushes while I was reading but it also restarted the love/hate relationship I have with sad heart aching scenes- which I find are always done so well in werewolf books. There is always a balance needed with smut, plot and growth and many books either succeed or fail (which does not make that bad book, we all enjoy more or less of things at times) but this book had that balance down! The vulnerability between Talon & Scythe as they dealt with the fallout of each other and the potential lost of their sisters, was the driving force that made you read for their love - not just the hot intimate scenes. It made their relationship believable and something to believe in. The fact that we experience prejudice and classism, we have some great the lgbtqia representation, and the fact we had such strong platonic relationships for both main characters made this world very well rounded. I think many people will read this and find a new favorite!
There is also a prequel novella that gives a little extra angst and backstory to the relationship between Talon & and Scythe that I highly recommend!
*I was blessed to be part of the arc team. However, I will always still give an honest review of the book, which is what this is*
DNF @45% … Thank you so much to the author/publisher for sending me and e-arc of this book. Unfortunately, this just wasn’t for me and that’s okay. This gave more of an erotica/cozy fantasy. It didn’t feel high stakes at all, there was more spice than plot or emotional depth, so with that being said this is for a certain reader I just prefer a little more world building with my romantasy, and less insta-lust. But I can see how other readers might enjoy it, bc it is a simple to understand fantasy world but it just wasn’t my thing at all.
I received an ARC of this title and made it to about 35% before deciding to DNF.
While the premise was promising, the pacing felt uneven and I struggled to connect with the characters. The story leaned more toward an erotic/cozy fantasy, with a stronger focus on spice than plot. I don’t mind spice in books, but it becomes an issue when it overshadows the story itself. That said, I can see the appeal for readers who enjoy that particular balance.
I'm so in love with Maddox Grey and their stories (including Lunaria Realms, under the pen name Alex Frost).
The nonbinary rep is chef's kiss.
The main reason I gave four instead of five stars is only because the relationship between the main characters felt less emotional than in the other books I've read by this author.
I just loved, loved, loved this book so much!! I think the concept of the world was really amazing! The indestructible Witch of the Woods, past curses on werewolves and lands where magic is outlawed or despised. The opening scene was brilliant, Scythe is such a badass character and from the moment Talon was introduced, I was obsessed. The magic system is so cool, I loved the side characters and loved the LGBRQIA+ rep. And I enjoyed the story so much, full of heists and quests and the enemies-to-lovers tension between these two characters were everything!
I love coming across witch based fantasy books so I was excited to receive an ARC for Of Silver and Curses. This is the first book in the Lingering Fates series which is made up of interconnected standalone books. I absolutely love when authors write series like this! We get world building, action, romance, conflict, and wrap up everything so nicely. I thought the author made this book the perfect length where we get excellent character development and romance without the story being rushed.
This book is packed full of witches, werewolves, fae, magic, Gods, and so much more. This was a really fun read that I loved jumping into after reading the prequel novella that helps set this story up. Main characters Cerelia and Talon are very unique and have a strong history together. Cerelia is the last Witch in the Woods and Talon is a cursed werewolf. Their kind have had a long standing hatred which brings up lost of problems between the two. When each of their sisters vanish they must work together to find them while trying to ignore the strong emotions that link them together. The passion, tension, and banter between them was definitely one of my favorite parts of the book. When we finally see them start to connect and trust one another I loved seeing them open up about their history and past. Both are dangerous and extremely morally grey but are so soft for each other!
I thought the quest and adventure they go on was great to read about. We get lots of action and see more of Talon's friends. Plus we get a masquerade ball with lots of drama. We begin to learn so much about this world that is definitely setting up the next book. There are so many unique characters that I can't wait to read about. There is so much potential for this series and I so excited to see what comes next!
DETAILED REVIEW OF- Of Silver and Curses by Maddox Grey
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 out of 5) 🌶🌶🌶🌶 ●📖 # 404 Pages ●# dual POV ●Release date- 24 June 2025 ●Plot or Character driven? A mix! ●Series Name- Lingering Fates ●Avaiable OK KU? No ●Any representation? Non-binary people and lgbtq !
●TROPES 🔥Standalone 🌡 Enemies to lovers ♥️Fated mates 🪧Quest 🫢Secrets and Betrayals 🥵 One horse/ One bed 🧙♀️Werewolves & witches 🔪Stabby, morally grey characters 🫦Forced proximity 🤣Banter 🎭Found family 😍 lesbian, gay and queer characters
***🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥*** I read the free prequel novella that gives a little extra angst and backstory to the relationship between Talon & and Scythe that was hot and spicy and really should have been a part of this book! I genuinely dont understand why it's not all one book?? I highly recommend you read that first! ***🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥***
🌍World building, Writing, and Pacing:
What a book! The world building was so smooth and detailed, no large clumps to get through even though it's a high fantasy which made it such an easy in-depth read. The amount of emotion poured into this plot by the author is a pleasure to read and experience, I found my heart breaking, my anger building and my chest hurting from the laughter that is brought on in each chapter.
The author writes such a well rounded and detailed world, we experience prejudice and classism, we have some great lgbtqia rep, strong side characters, a good history / back story and then there is the curse, the quest, the gods, the sub plot that hints to the next book and the main plot itself.
The dark and grey moments of this story are balanced so well with the smouldering, yearning, romance (spice), suspense, and genius banter. The amount of bloodshed and knife play in this book is perfect. It really enhances the story and just suits the characters so much!
I enjoyed the pacing of the book, there's nothing that needed skim reading, and there were no moments I had to 'get through', it was a delicious and enjoyable read from start to finish.
I loved the unique magic system and lore. It's a brand new system to me, and I found that I wanted more of it! I wanted to know more spells, more songs, more everything! In fact I wish we had more information.ation about it! I wish we learned more history about the magic and more about the witch's limitations and the differences between her magic and then the fae and mage magic.
🧝♂️Characters: [This was my first time reading about non binary people, for anyone else wondering what that means to the story in cliff notes it means that this particular character was born male and likes women but does not identify as male, instead preferring to just be free and have no limits or restrictions placed on them about their clothes or choices for example. (For a more accurate description, please Google it like I did)]
The tension that comes from the main characters just simmers and bubbles and stalks you throughout each chapter. The yearning, banter, and chemistry of the two main characters was *chefs kiss absolutely flying off the pages - smack you in the face, perfect! There is always a balance needed with smut, plot, and growth, and this book had that balance in spades!
The vulnerability between Talon & Scythe as they dealt with the fallout of hating each other but lusting after each other is delicious! Their emotions shine off the page as we watch them navigate through their feeling for each other, the hate sèx, the potential lost of their sisters, and the past memories that surface along their journey- It made their relationship believable and something to believe in.
There are so many stand-out side characters too, the plot and sub plot offer the reader soooo much eye candy that it's genuinely difficult ultimately to put this book down!
💯Would I re-read and Recommend? Damn right, I'd do and will, and I am buying every copy of this that is released - please do a sprayed edge!!
🪧Final thoughts: A bad a$s witch, a cursed, cocky werewolf, and a one night stand gone wrong is the perfect set up for a high tension, banter filled, standalone fantasy romance
Do you want a book with angst, mating bonds, scythe weilding blood thirsty witches, hot hate s*x, tense chemistry, spice, secrets, banter, and detailed side characters? THEN LET ME INTRODUCE YOU TO 'Of Silver and Curses'! They all make this one incredible read!
I need the next one!! I hope we learn about the wilds and more about the magic and the wolf packs! Oh, and of course the gods and that pesky fated mate disappearing act! Omg and what will the ki g say now? And the other realms? Omg JUST TELL ME EVERYRHING!!!
*********************** My Rating Systems:
⭐️ DNF
⭐️⭐️ I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another authors hands
⭐️⭐️.5 It was OK. I wish i didn't start this one as It didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetative writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail] Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥 This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable, even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action
🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, play rooms, and more darker / taboo fantasies and realities.
I flew through this book, I liked the novella, how it showed us how the two main characters met and then this book happens two years after the events of that novella and wow am I obsessed with Maddox Grey’s writing style.
When we start Of Silver and Curses we are seeing our characters two years after they had their one night tryst and discovered who and what both of them are and the hatred that flowed through their blood for one another.
Scythe, the last Witch of the Woods, has been alone in her forest, protecting it from the mage hunters and others who would see it destroyed. She can’t forget him, the wolf who inadvertently took her sister with him when he left her. Now he’s back, telling her that both of their sisters are gone and something doesn’t feel right about the way they left.
Talon, the last cursed werewolf has been enjoying all the heists he’s been on but he cant forget those lilac hair and those bright silver eyes. When his sister and her girlfriend the witch of the woods sister go missing, he knows theres only one person who will do anything to bring them back. So he ends up at the one place he never wanted to come back to- the woods where the last witch lives. His hatred of the witches who cursed his ancestors and took part of his soul away isn’t strong enough to block the fascination he has with the last witch of the woods.
Together, Scythe and Talon attempt to find their sisters before it’s too late. This story was so much fun! Filled with so much banter between the main characters that I was constantly laughing while also feeling all the emotions possible. Of Silver and Curses also had the best found family between the main characters and side characters that I couldn’t put the book down once I started. I’m so intrigued to see what Maddox Grey writes next in the Lingering Fates series. In the meantime I will definitely be reading everything else that Maddox Grey has written.
Tropes we love to love: 🧙♀️Standalone 🐺Werewolves & witches 🧙♀️Stabby, morally grey characters 🐺Forced proximity 🧙♀️Banter 🐺Found family
Thank you to Maddox Grey for my arc and I’m willingly giving my review. Like I said earlier I loved this book, the writing was easy to follow while also creating a complex world with characters I am loving and side characters I can’t help but want more from. This book releases June 24th so there’s plenty of time to dive into the novella beforehand.
Speaking of the novella, do I think it’s absolutely necessary to read it before reading Of Silver and Curses, no but it does help the reader understand what’s at stake and why our characters act the way they do and I think it adds to the emotional impact of the story.
This new romantasy has all wonderful themes that this author is known for: found family that will stop at nothing for the ones they love, relatable and beautifully developed main characters with supporting characters that you can’t help but love and root for, humor, action and everything in between. Curses and quests, stabby FMCs and morally grey characters, off the charts chemistry and tension with spice that will have your heart racing, witches with magic that is music based and cocky werewolves.
This story follows Scythe, the last witch of the forest. Her kind has had a long-standing history of hatred for the werewolves, which has been something of a sore spot when she discovers that the one she has been sleeping with, Talon, is a cursed wolf. Things get real tense, real quick. Soon the pair discover that they each have a sister that have disappeared, and they must work together to bring them home safely. In the process, their hatred is replaced with undeniable chemistry and tension that has seem to consume their every waking moment. They decide push past their species history to open up their hearts, it is raw, emotional and beautiful. Through their journey, they learn that together, they are more powerful and dangerous than they could have imagined.
Maddox Grey, you can do no wrong, and that is a hill that I am willing to plant my flag on. This is a new standalone (that hope will be continued in a series, fingers crossed) that is as breathtaking of a story as the cover is stunning. The tension and banter is some of the best that I have read in a long time (excluding all other works from this author, of course). This was such a fun and thrilling read, with the suspense and curve balls that I couldn’t have imagined coming, despite this being a THICCCC book, I breezed right through it. All I have left to say is GIMMIE MORE!!!
She dances the same way she fights. Wild and untamed.
I was so happy to not have to wait long for Of Silver and Curses after reading the short novella that came before this. Of Melodies and Maledictions introduced us to the first couple of Maddox Grey’s newest series Lingering Fates. I was beyond ready to read more about our MCs and their love story. The novella left readers knowing their story wasn’t over yet, but the story Maddox had in store wasn’t anything I could prepare myself for. If you haven’t read the short prequel yet, I highly recommend that you do, as it sets up our MC’s story beautifully.
Talon and Scythe thought they had gone their separate ways. The last time they saw each other, they parted ways on not great terms. When both their sister’s are taken, who happen to be lovers, they must join forces again to get them back. The banter between these two begins immediately. The banter was so good before, but Maddox elevates it in this story. I loved reading every interaction between these two. As unspoken feelings simmered just below the surface, I was on edge just waiting for it to boil over.
As true enemies when the story starts out, and for good reason, their journey was realistic. They are united by a mutual love for their sisters. In connection with the journey they are on, Maddox brings their world back to life with ease. I love getting lost in Maddox’ worlds that they create. Their worlds are always full of diversity, representation, and vibrancy.
I am excited to see what the other stories in this interconnected series will be, but this book is the perfect start to it. Loved every word of it!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect: 🐺Morally Grey Characters 🔮Witchy FMC 🐺Werewolf MMC 🔮Close Proximity 🐺Enemies to Reluctant Allies to Lovers 🔮Found Family 🐺LGBTQIA+ Representation
🗡 Dual POV 🐺 Magical tattoos 🗡 Last of her kind 🐺 Nonbinary main character❗️ 🗡 Morally grey FMC and NMC (and by morally grey I mean morals are tossed out the window) 🐺 Mass murder as a coping mechanism 🗡 FMC has (understandable) abandonment issues 🐺 Only one horse/one bed 🗡 (Very reluctant) fated mates 🐺 Stand-alone 🗡 Enemies to reluctant allies to lovers
Finally, some good f*ing nonbinary rep! As a queer, nonbinary person, this book was EVERYTHING. It felt incredibly authentic, and gave me so much queer joy ❤️
I really loved the characters. Scythe and Tal are very well-written, and the author did a great job with the dual POV. I never felt disappointed when the POV swapped.
Where I think the book was weaker was the plot. It was good, but not quite amazing. No major plot-holes, but for me there were a lot of missed opportunities. I kept waiting for something to happen in Scythe's forest, or for her ex to show up, or for the fact that she's a princess to come into play. It left me a little unsatisfied, because they would have been interesting plot-lines to explore. Some sections were also a little slow for my tastes, where not much was happening.
I liked the worldbuilding and magic system, but I think I would have liked it even more if it was fleshed out more at the start.
I will say it is on the spicier side. Sex is brought up. A lot. For some people that's a deal breaker, in which case this might not be for you. But I know some of yall LOVE a spicier read, so definitely pick up this book if that's what you like!
Overall though? I enjoyed reading this book, it had a lot of my favourite tropes, and I'm very happy about the queer and nonbinary rep!
Thank you Netgalley and Maddox Grey for the chance to read the ARC! All opinions are honest and my own.
Please note: I received a free ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of Of Silver and Curses in exchange for an honest review. Of Silver and Curses is the first book I've ever read with a non-binary MC, and I was really curious to see how they would be portrayed. I wasn't disappointed; Talon was wonderful. I loved how Maddox wrote them, and Talon was a delight. I loved how the world dealt with gender in a beautifully varied way that felt so natural and just accepting of everyone's individuality. The world-building itself was wonderful, feeling original and different. I liked the history that was built up, and the differences between kingdoms and people. It felt like a real world, and the way it was described was beautifully written. Excessive descriptions which feel forced are a particular issue for me, and it never felt close to that. It just gradually filled in the background and world in an intriguing and beautiful way. The relationship between Scythe and Talon was particularly captivating. Their connection felt incredibly real and palpable, building with a steamy intensity that was both exciting and utterly enthralling. The undeniable draw between them was a joy to read, truly anchoring the emotional core of the narrative. The story itself was relatable and real, unfolding with great twists and turns that genuinely surprised me at every corner. Combined with a cast of interesting side characters who each felt distinct and purposeful, the plot kept me utterly gripped. I literally couldn't put it down and genuinely needed to know how it ended. The conclusion was simply perfect, wrapping everything up in a way that felt incredibly satisfying and true to the journey I'd just experienced.
I consider myself a strict book critic. I don’t give out 4+ star ratings easily. I’ve given books from some of my favorite authors just 2 stars before. I don’t hesitate to DNF books that don’t capture my attention. That being said…I give Of Silver and Curses 4.5/5 stars ⭐️ I thoroughly enjoyed it and am eager to read future sequels.
Of Silver and Curses had not one but two badass main characters: a centuries old witch and a sexy non-binary werewolf. It was fast paced and action packed, full of adventure and magic and sex and violence…and all in just ~400 pages. I’m not afraid of 800+ page books, but I hate reading alllll of those pages just to end up not loving the book (Priory of the Orange Tree / ACOTAR I’m looking at you 👀).
I docked half a star for a couple minor things I didn’t love. As a 30 year old, and in a book about grown adults, I don’t necessarily love the enemies to lovers trope. I’ve noticed in recent years I’ve begun to dislike YA books for that very reason: it can feel immature. Childish. This is a book for adults and I want my adults - at least the MC(s) - to act like adults. But I guess too much maturity wouldn’t always make for a great story. And I DO think Grey used the trope well.
This book was sexy as hell, but my second little complaint was the overuse of the words c*ck and p*ssy 😂 It at times made me cringe…and I am the furthest thing from a prude. I just think it’s sexier to say “f*ck I want you ins*de me” than “f*ck I want your f*t c*ck ins*de my w*t j*icy p*ssy,” you know? Personal preference I guess 😅
Anyway…excellent book. I’m sad this series is just beginning. I’m so excited for more and I will definitely be checking out the author’s other books in the meantime!
I will absolutely be reading the rest of this standalone series! The world building (while having some minor gaps) is easy to follow and is revealed throughout the book. This first book follows Scythe and Tallon. Scythe has been abandoned by her mate and the rest of witchkin who left to another land, but she stayed to guard her forest. The only person she has left is her magicless sister, who was also left behind. One night, Tallon and Scythe met, and their attraction was undeniable. However, Tallon, a curse werewolf, soon discovered that Scythe was a witch, and witches were the reason their kind was cursed to be unable to shift into wolf form. While both despise one another, they are unable to move on from one another. Further, their sisters fall deeply in love, and Scythe's sister leaves her forest to live with Tallon's travelling troop. After years of not speaking - but still thinking about each other - they are forced to work together to find their sisters, who suddenly and mysteriously disappear.
I am so very jealous of the type of witch that Scythe is, her nature magic and connection to animals in phenomenal! It was both heartwarming and heart-wrenching to see Scythe battle with her abandonment issues throughout the novel, and something many people can relate to. I was slightly confused who tasked the witches with guarding the forests or if they were doing it simply because of the nature of their magic, and why there was a separation between the two forests (were there two groups of witches?).
The way that Maddox gave us glimpses into the other characters' lives and relationships has me eagerly anticipating reading their journeys.
Sometimes dark romance books will gift you a seriously unhinged couple. A pair of people who are so delightfully well-matched in their desire to see the world burn that you kick your feet in joy. This is one of those books.
This enemies to lovers romantasy brings together the last witch and a cursed werewolf, uniting them in their desires to save their sisters. Throw in some killer banter, a fake marriage and an accidental mate bond and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a love built firmly on hate.
Written by a non-binary author, they have said each book in this series will have a non-binary main character. This is the initial book in the series, which clearly sets up future plot lines and characters.
The world this story is set in is filled with magic, conflict, and the gods sticking their two cents in occasionally. It is a world where tattoos and piercings hold great significance. It comes with a panther called Necos, accidental pink eyebrows, a horse called Draco, a distinct lack of beds in various locations (only ONE bed!) and a pair of people determined to play chicken with their attraction to each other.
There are multiple potential triggers in this book - the biggest being the frequent violent deaths. It is an open door book - I’m pretty sure the door has been stuck to the wall with magic. Honestly, this book was tremendous fun. It does a good job of heading off potential loopholes very nicely. I am excited to read more in this world and any dark romantasy fans should 100% join me.
The magic system is interesting it’s not too confusing but also not to simple that it feels like I’ve read it 100 times before. It wasn’t anything special or overly unique but it was interesting and wove in different magic systems making it more interesting
Sometimes the book felt like it was modern while other times it didn’t. there was a lack of consistency where u could see that the author was writing what they know as opposed to what would fit the book well
I liked the relationship between the mc’s sometimes but sometimes it would feel like I was reading about a completely different couple with a completely different dynamic that I didn’t like. I also thought the sex scenes where really cringey and ended up skim reading most of them, they where also mainly some form of the same scene done over and over again but just in different settings
The writing of particularly the creatures and settings in this book was very well done it was able to fully immerse me in the story and feel as if I was there
I loved Caspian and Azdall and am very excited to get to see more of them both. There are a lot of characters that we only see briefly that I hope we get to see more of. The author does a great job of making u want to know more about their characters
Overall the book was enjoyable but lacked a lot of consistency throughout with it feeling like 2 people were writing the book both with differing ideas on the world and the mc’s relationship.
Thank you Netgalley and victory editing for the digital arc
A bad a$s witch, a cursed werewolf, and a one night stand gone wrong. This is the perfect set up for a high tension, banter filled, standalone fantasy romance.
Scythe is a witch, and the last one at that, tasked at guarding The Witches Woods and the path to The Wilds. Her people have left her and her mate abandoned her. The only one to stay is her younger sister and now she’s gone missing!
Talon is a werewolf, cursed to not be able to shift by the witches, who travels with a performance act. Their parents were killed at a young age and they have been left to care for their younger sister who has also gone missing with Scythe’s sister.
Despite the animosity between witches and wolves, Talon teams up with Scythe to find their sisters. The catch, they have already met before, a few years prior, when they had a hot and steamy night that did not have a pleasant end.
The tension between Scythe and Talon throughout the book is absolutley perfect. These two have an instant pull to one another other and I loved watching them slowly trust each other and break through the barriers
I really enjoyed the premise of the overall storyline and hope to see some of these characters again in their own standalone!
If you’re looking for a standalone fantasy romance then look no further!!