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The Impossible Spell
Emerald Island has its secrets.
Some believe it is cursed.
People have disappeared. Magic is outlawed. Friends, Charlotte and Tristan, are determined to find out why.
The Impossible Spell is a young adult paranormal fantasy about trust, deceit and the courage to seek the truth at all costs. Even if family, love and loyalty are tested. Even if time must be travelled.
In the Southern Ocean between Australia and Antarctica, Emerald Island is home to Charlotte and Tristan. Two estranged childhood friends entangled by the past in ways they know, and ways they can’t imagine. All their lives they were told that their mothers, who were best friends, disappeared under mysterious circumstances shortly after they were born. Charlotte suspects it has to do with a spell their mothers cast, the last in their Book of Shadows, a spell that should not have worked.
Even today, at sixteen, Charlotte can feel her mother’s magic running through her veins. She believes that Tristan can too, though he’d never admit it. But Charlotte needs his help to recreate the spell that tore their families apart, that created the greatest mystery Emerald Island has ever seen and hopefully resolve what happened on the night their mothers disappeared.
At her sixth birthday party an explosion occurred that saw many invited guests injured. It rocked the community and tore apart the close relationship of the two families. Charlotte’s father suspected the explosion came from young Tristan’s abilities surging. It forced him to secretly warn the boy to stay away so his uncontrolled powers would not hurt his daughter. Reluctantly, young Tristan promised he would, returning every year to check it was still necessary. And every year Charlotte’s father confirmed that it was still vital that he stay away.
It’s now been ten years since Charlotte and Tristan have spoken.
Eventually Charlotte and Tristan find themselves communicating again. Charlotte convinces Tristan to practice magic with her, and their feelings for each other begin to spark. They soon discover that when they touch, it causes each of them excruciating pain. They suspect someone has cast a pain spell over them. Tristan assumes Charlotte’s father is still trying to keep them from seeing each other. That her father could do this not only hurts Charlotte’s feelings but also infuriates her.
Some believe it is cursed.
People have disappeared. Magic is outlawed. Friends, Charlotte and Tristan, are determined to find out why.
The Impossible Spell is a young adult paranormal fantasy about trust, deceit and the courage to seek the truth at all costs. Even if family, love and loyalty are tested. Even if time must be travelled.
In the Southern Ocean between Australia and Antarctica, Emerald Island is home to Charlotte and Tristan. Two estranged childhood friends entangled by the past in ways they know, and ways they can’t imagine. All their lives they were told that their mothers, who were best friends, disappeared under mysterious circumstances shortly after they were born. Charlotte suspects it has to do with a spell their mothers cast, the last in their Book of Shadows, a spell that should not have worked.
Even today, at sixteen, Charlotte can feel her mother’s magic running through her veins. She believes that Tristan can too, though he’d never admit it. But Charlotte needs his help to recreate the spell that tore their families apart, that created the greatest mystery Emerald Island has ever seen and hopefully resolve what happened on the night their mothers disappeared.
At her sixth birthday party an explosion occurred that saw many invited guests injured. It rocked the community and tore apart the close relationship of the two families. Charlotte’s father suspected the explosion came from young Tristan’s abilities surging. It forced him to secretly warn the boy to stay away so his uncontrolled powers would not hurt his daughter. Reluctantly, young Tristan promised he would, returning every year to check it was still necessary. And every year Charlotte’s father confirmed that it was still vital that he stay away.
It’s now been ten years since Charlotte and Tristan have spoken.
Eventually Charlotte and Tristan find themselves communicating again. Charlotte convinces Tristan to practice magic with her, and their feelings for each other begin to spark. They soon discover that when they touch, it causes each of them excruciating pain. They suspect someone has cast a pain spell over them. Tristan assumes Charlotte’s father is still trying to keep them from seeing each other. That her father could do this not only hurts Charlotte’s feelings but also infuriates her.
429 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2025
2 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Marianne Curley
26 books1,237 followersI loved reading from a young age and scoured my school libraries during my younger years, but I never thought I would become a writer. It was not until my mid-thirties, while teaching office studies and computers to adults at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus that I began to think seriously about writing. I took several courses and experimented with different styles and genres. With two teenage daughters at the time I fell into writing young adult paranormal and knew I'd found something I loved.
My first four novels, Old Magic, The Named, The Dark and The Key, were published by Bloomsbury Publishing in Australia, the UK, and the USA, with translations into more than a dozen foreign languages.
In 2004, just as The Key was being prepared for printing, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone marrow cancer called Myelofibrosis. With only a short time to live, I was given a stem-cell bone marrow transplant using my sister’s stem cells, which saved my life. I have now been cancer free for more than twenty years and have written a total of ten books. The Avena Series - Hidden, Broken and Fearless were published in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
In March 2018, I was finally able to publish the long-awaited fourth book to the Guardians of Time Series, called The Shadow. To unite the series, I brought out a new edition of the entire series with matching fantasy covers tying the four books together.
Website: http://mariannecurley7.com
Email: marianne.curley7@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marianne.cur...
Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/MarianneCurl...
Insta: @marianne_curley
My first four novels, Old Magic, The Named, The Dark and The Key, were published by Bloomsbury Publishing in Australia, the UK, and the USA, with translations into more than a dozen foreign languages.
In 2004, just as The Key was being prepared for printing, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone marrow cancer called Myelofibrosis. With only a short time to live, I was given a stem-cell bone marrow transplant using my sister’s stem cells, which saved my life. I have now been cancer free for more than twenty years and have written a total of ten books. The Avena Series - Hidden, Broken and Fearless were published in 2013, 2014 and 2015.
In March 2018, I was finally able to publish the long-awaited fourth book to the Guardians of Time Series, called The Shadow. To unite the series, I brought out a new edition of the entire series with matching fantasy covers tying the four books together.
Website: http://mariannecurley7.com
Email: marianne.curley7@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marianne.cur...
Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/MarianneCurl...
Insta: @marianne_curley
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
July 21, 2025
Okay, this book was a total ride. The Impossible Spell gives you all the small-town magic vibes with a dark twist. Set on a creepy little island where magic is banned and people vanish, it follows Charlotte and Tristan, two old friends who are pulled back together by a mystery way bigger than either of them expected.
Charlotte’s pretty sure her mom disappeared because of a spell gone wrong and yeah, she’s ready to recreate it to find out the truth. Tristan? He’s not totally on board, but there’s definitely more going on with him than he lets on. Their whole “we used to be close but now things are weird” energy is chef’s kiss.
There’s so much to love here, spells, secrets, time travel (yes, really), and a magical book that may or may not be the key to everything. The vibe is mysterious, a little spooky, and totally binge-worthy. It’s one of those “just one more chapter” kind of reads.
The best part? It’s not just about magic, it’s about trust, loyalty, and how far you’ll go for the people you love. Also, the setting is so cool, isolated island, ancient magic, lots of eerie history? I was hooked.
If you’re into magical mysteries, messy friendships, and a little danger on the side, give this one a go. You’ll fly through it.
Charlotte’s pretty sure her mom disappeared because of a spell gone wrong and yeah, she’s ready to recreate it to find out the truth. Tristan? He’s not totally on board, but there’s definitely more going on with him than he lets on. Their whole “we used to be close but now things are weird” energy is chef’s kiss.
There’s so much to love here, spells, secrets, time travel (yes, really), and a magical book that may or may not be the key to everything. The vibe is mysterious, a little spooky, and totally binge-worthy. It’s one of those “just one more chapter” kind of reads.
The best part? It’s not just about magic, it’s about trust, loyalty, and how far you’ll go for the people you love. Also, the setting is so cool, isolated island, ancient magic, lots of eerie history? I was hooked.
If you’re into magical mysteries, messy friendships, and a little danger on the side, give this one a go. You’ll fly through it.
June 21, 2025
Charlotte is a strong main character. She is confident in her spell-working abilities though limited by the laws of where she lives, on an island called Emerald where witchcraft and all forms of magic are outlawed. Charlotte is not liked at school. She has only one friend who shares her interest in magic. But there is another she suspects can work magic, a boy named Tristan. The two used to be great childhood friends until their families had a falling out. They haven’t spoken for ten years. Fate brings them together again now that they’re 16 and the mystery on Emerald Island is beginning to unfold.
I loved the writing in this book, how it’s told in alternating chapters, so I know exactly what Charlotte and Tristan are thinking. Marianne Curley’s writing is so visual I feel as if I’m right there on Emerald Island with the characters. And like all of Marianne Curley’s earlier books, every chapter unfolds like a scene in a movie.
I loved the writing in this book, how it’s told in alternating chapters, so I know exactly what Charlotte and Tristan are thinking. Marianne Curley’s writing is so visual I feel as if I’m right there on Emerald Island with the characters. And like all of Marianne Curley’s earlier books, every chapter unfolds like a scene in a movie.
June 23, 2025
I loved this book. It kept me turning pages. It has a different take on the fantasy worlds of its kind. It has a contemporary feel until it doesn’t. The Impossible Spell is exciting and intriguing, with a sense of adventure that comes with each unfolding chapter. There is so much passion between the main characters Charlotte and Tristan in their magnetic pull towards each other, and the problems they must overcome, that it makes these characters whole and realistic.
The Impossible Spell is a captivating read that I couldn’t put down. I highly recommend it.
The Impossible Spell is a captivating read that I couldn’t put down. I highly recommend it.
August 10, 2025
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell is a beautifully layered contemporary fantasy that blends teen angst, friendship, and the cost of magic with deep emotional resonance. At its core, the novel explores the fragile line between loyalty and betrayal through the eyes of Charlotte, a reluctant young witch haunted by her family’s past and weighed down by the emotional scars of social exile. Her best friend Abbie's desire to use magic to gain popularity and love challenges not only their bond but Charlotte’s moral compass. The story deftly captures the tension between choosing what’s right and what’s easy, especially when love is involved.
Charlotte is a quietly powerful protagonist. Her voice is introspective, often wry, and full of inner conflict as she grapples with a hidden love for Tristan Bonner—who also happens to be the target of Abbie’s spell. Curley writes her with nuance and empathy, allowing readers to feel the full weight of her loneliness and integrity. The tension between Charlotte and Abbie builds steadily, layered with unsaid truths, long-held secrets, and the haunting disappearance of Charlotte’s mother. These complexities enrich the central plotline and elevate what might have been a simple love triangle into something far more compelling.
The dual perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan are a strong narrative choice, offering insight into both sides of the magical disturbance. Tristan’s discovery that someone has cast a spell on him adds intrigue and emotional vulnerability to his character, while Jack, his best friend, brings humor and realism to balance the mysticism. Curley skillfully uses these male voices to reveal the broader societal fear and stigma surrounding witchcraft on Emerald Island, further complicating Charlotte and Abbie’s clandestine activities.
Curley’s writing is lyrical and immersive, creating an atmosphere heavy with suspense, teenage longing, and supernatural undercurrents. Themes of trust, identity, and consequence pulse through every chapter, making The Impossible Spell more than a magical romance—it’s a deeply personal story of two girls on the edge of adulthood, searching for belonging and power in a world that has tried to erase both. This is a captivating start to what promises to be a rich, emotional series.
Charlotte is a quietly powerful protagonist. Her voice is introspective, often wry, and full of inner conflict as she grapples with a hidden love for Tristan Bonner—who also happens to be the target of Abbie’s spell. Curley writes her with nuance and empathy, allowing readers to feel the full weight of her loneliness and integrity. The tension between Charlotte and Abbie builds steadily, layered with unsaid truths, long-held secrets, and the haunting disappearance of Charlotte’s mother. These complexities enrich the central plotline and elevate what might have been a simple love triangle into something far more compelling.
The dual perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan are a strong narrative choice, offering insight into both sides of the magical disturbance. Tristan’s discovery that someone has cast a spell on him adds intrigue and emotional vulnerability to his character, while Jack, his best friend, brings humor and realism to balance the mysticism. Curley skillfully uses these male voices to reveal the broader societal fear and stigma surrounding witchcraft on Emerald Island, further complicating Charlotte and Abbie’s clandestine activities.
Curley’s writing is lyrical and immersive, creating an atmosphere heavy with suspense, teenage longing, and supernatural undercurrents. Themes of trust, identity, and consequence pulse through every chapter, making The Impossible Spell more than a magical romance—it’s a deeply personal story of two girls on the edge of adulthood, searching for belonging and power in a world that has tried to erase both. This is a captivating start to what promises to be a rich, emotional series.
August 10, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley
In The Impossible Spell, Marianne Curley crafts a compelling narrative that explores the deeply personal and often painful journey of identity, particularly as it relates to adolescence, magic, and the burden of legacy. Through the dual perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan, Curley draws readers into the inner turmoil of two teenagers grappling not just with typical high school struggles, but with a deeper, magical inheritance that complicates their sense of self and belonging.
Charlotte’s reluctance to perform spells on others reflects her strong moral compass but also her fear of losing control over who she is. Her quiet suffering, loneliness, and suppressed love for Tristan hint at the internal war between who she wants to be and who the world—or magic—demands she become. Abbie, by contrast, is more impulsive, seeking identity through external validation, particularly in her desire to be noticed by Tristan. Their friendship becomes a lens through which the reader can observe the way young women navigate self-worth and power in a world that often renders them invisible.
Tristan’s storyline further deepens the theme of identity. His connection to the mysterious disappearance of his mother and her best friend, as well as his unexplained magical experiences, marks him as someone haunted by a legacy he doesn’t fully understand. Living with the memory of loss and surrounded by secrets, he embodies the uncertainty of growing up while carrying the weight of a history he never chose but must reconcile with.
Curley uses the magical setting of Emerald Island as more than just a backdrop—it’s a metaphor for internal landscapes of the characters. The forest, the ocean, the cliffs, and the isolation of the island reflect the characters’ fragmented identities, their longing for connection, and the difficulty of finding authenticity in a world shaped by hidden truths. Ultimately, The Impossible Spell is a moving examination of the search for identity—where it comes from, how it evolves, and what it means to claim it fully.
In The Impossible Spell, Marianne Curley crafts a compelling narrative that explores the deeply personal and often painful journey of identity, particularly as it relates to adolescence, magic, and the burden of legacy. Through the dual perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan, Curley draws readers into the inner turmoil of two teenagers grappling not just with typical high school struggles, but with a deeper, magical inheritance that complicates their sense of self and belonging.
Charlotte’s reluctance to perform spells on others reflects her strong moral compass but also her fear of losing control over who she is. Her quiet suffering, loneliness, and suppressed love for Tristan hint at the internal war between who she wants to be and who the world—or magic—demands she become. Abbie, by contrast, is more impulsive, seeking identity through external validation, particularly in her desire to be noticed by Tristan. Their friendship becomes a lens through which the reader can observe the way young women navigate self-worth and power in a world that often renders them invisible.
Tristan’s storyline further deepens the theme of identity. His connection to the mysterious disappearance of his mother and her best friend, as well as his unexplained magical experiences, marks him as someone haunted by a legacy he doesn’t fully understand. Living with the memory of loss and surrounded by secrets, he embodies the uncertainty of growing up while carrying the weight of a history he never chose but must reconcile with.
Curley uses the magical setting of Emerald Island as more than just a backdrop—it’s a metaphor for internal landscapes of the characters. The forest, the ocean, the cliffs, and the isolation of the island reflect the characters’ fragmented identities, their longing for connection, and the difficulty of finding authenticity in a world shaped by hidden truths. Ultimately, The Impossible Spell is a moving examination of the search for identity—where it comes from, how it evolves, and what it means to claim it fully.
August 10, 2025
“You can’t know what effect a spell might have on a person.” – The Impossible Spell, Marianne Curley
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell is a bewitching exploration of adolescent yearning, moral ambiguity, and the haunting consequences of tampering with fate. This quote encapsulates the central tension of the novel—an evocative warning that underpins the emotional and supernatural stakes faced by Charlotte and Abbie. The prose is richly atmospheric, blending the mundane with the mystical in a way that’s both enchanting and unnerving. Through layered characterisation and restrained magic, Curley crafts a tale where internal conflict is as powerful as any incantation.
Charlotte, the reluctant witch, is a protagonist steeped in restraint and inner turmoil. Her loyalty to Abbie and concealed affection for Tristan lend the narrative a heartrending undercurrent. Meanwhile, Abbie’s desperation to escape social invisibility is both poignant and perilous, rendering her decisions reckless yet profoundly human. Curley juxtaposes their fragile bond against the backdrop of suppressed power and traumatic legacy, evoking themes of betrayal, identity, and forbidden magic with poetic intensity.
What makes this novel compelling is its psychological acuity. The emotional entanglements feel tangible, and the moral implications of their actions resonate deeply. Tristan’s unexpected perspective adds narrative complexity, infusing the story with a touch of dramatic irony that heightens suspense. Personally, I found the gradual unravelling of trust between the girls both painful and inevitable, a poignant reminder that love, whether romantic or platonic, is rarely uncomplicated.
The Impossible Spell leaves a lasting impression—an introspective spell that lingers beyond the final page. It challenges readers to confront the consequences of desire and manipulation, making it a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the darker dimensions of friendship, longing, and latent power.
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell is a bewitching exploration of adolescent yearning, moral ambiguity, and the haunting consequences of tampering with fate. This quote encapsulates the central tension of the novel—an evocative warning that underpins the emotional and supernatural stakes faced by Charlotte and Abbie. The prose is richly atmospheric, blending the mundane with the mystical in a way that’s both enchanting and unnerving. Through layered characterisation and restrained magic, Curley crafts a tale where internal conflict is as powerful as any incantation.
Charlotte, the reluctant witch, is a protagonist steeped in restraint and inner turmoil. Her loyalty to Abbie and concealed affection for Tristan lend the narrative a heartrending undercurrent. Meanwhile, Abbie’s desperation to escape social invisibility is both poignant and perilous, rendering her decisions reckless yet profoundly human. Curley juxtaposes their fragile bond against the backdrop of suppressed power and traumatic legacy, evoking themes of betrayal, identity, and forbidden magic with poetic intensity.
What makes this novel compelling is its psychological acuity. The emotional entanglements feel tangible, and the moral implications of their actions resonate deeply. Tristan’s unexpected perspective adds narrative complexity, infusing the story with a touch of dramatic irony that heightens suspense. Personally, I found the gradual unravelling of trust between the girls both painful and inevitable, a poignant reminder that love, whether romantic or platonic, is rarely uncomplicated.
The Impossible Spell leaves a lasting impression—an introspective spell that lingers beyond the final page. It challenges readers to confront the consequences of desire and manipulation, making it a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the darker dimensions of friendship, longing, and latent power.
August 10, 2025
In The Impossible Spell, Marianne Curley masterfully explores the complexities of teenage identity, friendship, and hidden magic through a rich cast of compelling characters. The story unfolds on the mysterious Emerald Island, but it’s the inner worlds of Charlotte, Abbie, and Tristan that take center stage. From the opening scene, Curley immerses readers in Charlotte’s quiet intensity and moral dilemma as a reluctant but gifted witch. Her inner conflict — torn between loyalty to her best friend and her secret love for Tristan — makes her an authentically conflicted and deeply relatable protagonist.
Abbie, as Charlotte’s bold and emotionally vulnerable counterpart, offers a powerful contrast. Her desperation to be seen and loved is not only understandable but heartbreaking, especially within the social microcosm of high school. Curley does an excellent job of making Abbie more than a sidekick; she is layered, flawed, and searching for connection in ways that mirror the real adolescent experience. Her insistence on using a spell to capture affection — while reckless — feels like an honest expression of longing and insecurity.
Tristan’s perspective adds depth to the narrative, revealing a young man grappling with legacy, trauma, and a latent magical past. His sensitivity and suspicion when he detects magic being used on him demonstrate both intelligence and emotional nuance. The revelations about his missing mother and the mysterious red mark on his shoulder only strengthen his character’s arc, as he straddles the worlds of the magical and the mundane.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell succeeds not just because of its supernatural intrigue, but because its characters feel real. Their motivations, desires, and fears resonate beyond the page, inviting readers to reflect on how power, love, and friendship shape who we become. Curley’s skill in character development elevates this novel from a fantasy drama into an emotionally rich coming-of-age tale.
Abbie, as Charlotte’s bold and emotionally vulnerable counterpart, offers a powerful contrast. Her desperation to be seen and loved is not only understandable but heartbreaking, especially within the social microcosm of high school. Curley does an excellent job of making Abbie more than a sidekick; she is layered, flawed, and searching for connection in ways that mirror the real adolescent experience. Her insistence on using a spell to capture affection — while reckless — feels like an honest expression of longing and insecurity.
Tristan’s perspective adds depth to the narrative, revealing a young man grappling with legacy, trauma, and a latent magical past. His sensitivity and suspicion when he detects magic being used on him demonstrate both intelligence and emotional nuance. The revelations about his missing mother and the mysterious red mark on his shoulder only strengthen his character’s arc, as he straddles the worlds of the magical and the mundane.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell succeeds not just because of its supernatural intrigue, but because its characters feel real. Their motivations, desires, and fears resonate beyond the page, inviting readers to reflect on how power, love, and friendship shape who we become. Curley’s skill in character development elevates this novel from a fantasy drama into an emotionally rich coming-of-age tale.
August 10, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell touched me deeply with its quiet undercurrents of longing, grief, and the complicated bonds of friendship. What initially seems like a whimsical tale of teenage magic quickly reveals itself as an emotionally layered exploration of loneliness, loyalty, and unspoken love. Charlotte’s reluctance to use her powers isn’t just a moral stance — it’s rooted in trauma and a profound sense of loss. I felt her internal tug-of-war between protecting her friend and preserving the natural course of love, and it struck a chord within me.
The emotional core of the story lies in the hidden pain both Charlotte and Tristan carry. Tristan’s reflection on his mother’s disappearance — the way her absence still defines him — brought a lump to my throat. His strength and vulnerability are deeply moving, especially when placed against the backdrop of a father lost in sorrow. There’s a generational echo of trauma in both families that made me reflect on how grief shapes identity and choice. Curley captures that ache of being sixteen and feeling invisible with a raw, unfiltered honesty.
What empowered me most was Charlotte’s quiet resilience. She endures being shunned and ridiculed yet still chooses empathy over envy. Despite loving Tristan in silence, she never betrays Abbie, instead guiding her with a wisdom beyond her years. Her moral compass doesn’t waver, and that made me admire her deeply. In a world that often rewards shortcuts and selfishness, Charlotte’s quiet integrity is revolutionary.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell left me both heartbroken and uplifted. Curley’s ability to capture the complexity of teenage emotion, the magic of unspoken bonds, and the tragedy of generational loss, left a lasting impression on me. It’s not just a paranormal story — it’s a meditation on choosing love over desire, truth over illusion, and courage in the face of sorrow.
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell touched me deeply with its quiet undercurrents of longing, grief, and the complicated bonds of friendship. What initially seems like a whimsical tale of teenage magic quickly reveals itself as an emotionally layered exploration of loneliness, loyalty, and unspoken love. Charlotte’s reluctance to use her powers isn’t just a moral stance — it’s rooted in trauma and a profound sense of loss. I felt her internal tug-of-war between protecting her friend and preserving the natural course of love, and it struck a chord within me.
The emotional core of the story lies in the hidden pain both Charlotte and Tristan carry. Tristan’s reflection on his mother’s disappearance — the way her absence still defines him — brought a lump to my throat. His strength and vulnerability are deeply moving, especially when placed against the backdrop of a father lost in sorrow. There’s a generational echo of trauma in both families that made me reflect on how grief shapes identity and choice. Curley captures that ache of being sixteen and feeling invisible with a raw, unfiltered honesty.
What empowered me most was Charlotte’s quiet resilience. She endures being shunned and ridiculed yet still chooses empathy over envy. Despite loving Tristan in silence, she never betrays Abbie, instead guiding her with a wisdom beyond her years. Her moral compass doesn’t waver, and that made me admire her deeply. In a world that often rewards shortcuts and selfishness, Charlotte’s quiet integrity is revolutionary.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell left me both heartbroken and uplifted. Curley’s ability to capture the complexity of teenage emotion, the magic of unspoken bonds, and the tragedy of generational loss, left a lasting impression on me. It’s not just a paranormal story — it’s a meditation on choosing love over desire, truth over illusion, and courage in the face of sorrow.
August 10, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley
Marianne Curley's The Impossible Spell is a captivating dive into the intertwined worlds of teenage longing, magic, and the complexities of friendship. From the very first page, readers are drawn into Charlotte’s quietly powerful voice as she grapples with her feelings for Tristan Bonner, her loyalty to her best friend Abbie, and the ethical boundaries of spellcasting. Curley builds tension with emotional precision, showcasing Charlotte’s inner conflict—torn between desire and doing what’s right. The story cleverly balances the real and the supernatural, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation and moral dilemma.
The strength of this novel lies not only in its magical intrigue but in its deep emotional resonance. The relationship between Charlotte and Abbie is both touching and tense—fraught with buried truths, jealousy, and the fragile thread of trust. Curley expertly captures the way teenage girls navigate the labyrinth of loyalty and love, and how easy it is for magic—like emotions—to spiral out of control. Readers will find themselves questioning the price of desire and the true nature of friendship as the spell’s impact begins to ripple.
What makes The Impossible Spell especially worth buying is its fresh take on modern witchcraft. It's not about wands or broomsticks—this is raw, emotional magic, grounded in real teenage experiences. The story is set in the evocative backdrop of Emerald Island, adding an atmospheric richness that heightens the mystery and drama. Curley’s prose is smooth, immersive, and often poetic, laced with tension and warmth in equal measure.
If you crave a story that blends the real struggles of adolescence with the seductive danger of magic, this book is for you. The Impossible Spell will stay with you long after the last page. It’s an emotional, suspenseful, and beautifully written read—one that reminds us that the most powerful spells are the ones we cast with our hearts.
Marianne Curley's The Impossible Spell is a captivating dive into the intertwined worlds of teenage longing, magic, and the complexities of friendship. From the very first page, readers are drawn into Charlotte’s quietly powerful voice as she grapples with her feelings for Tristan Bonner, her loyalty to her best friend Abbie, and the ethical boundaries of spellcasting. Curley builds tension with emotional precision, showcasing Charlotte’s inner conflict—torn between desire and doing what’s right. The story cleverly balances the real and the supernatural, creating an atmosphere thick with anticipation and moral dilemma.
The strength of this novel lies not only in its magical intrigue but in its deep emotional resonance. The relationship between Charlotte and Abbie is both touching and tense—fraught with buried truths, jealousy, and the fragile thread of trust. Curley expertly captures the way teenage girls navigate the labyrinth of loyalty and love, and how easy it is for magic—like emotions—to spiral out of control. Readers will find themselves questioning the price of desire and the true nature of friendship as the spell’s impact begins to ripple.
What makes The Impossible Spell especially worth buying is its fresh take on modern witchcraft. It's not about wands or broomsticks—this is raw, emotional magic, grounded in real teenage experiences. The story is set in the evocative backdrop of Emerald Island, adding an atmospheric richness that heightens the mystery and drama. Curley’s prose is smooth, immersive, and often poetic, laced with tension and warmth in equal measure.
If you crave a story that blends the real struggles of adolescence with the seductive danger of magic, this book is for you. The Impossible Spell will stay with you long after the last page. It’s an emotional, suspenseful, and beautifully written read—one that reminds us that the most powerful spells are the ones we cast with our hearts.
June 28, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley is a young adult fantasy story about two friends, Charlotte and Tristan, who live on a small island called Emerald. Magic is banned on this island, but both of them have special powers. Their mothers were best friends too, but one night many years ago, they disappeared after casting a spell. Since then, Charlotte and Tristan’s lives changed. They stopped speaking to each other because of an accident that happened at Charlotte’s birthday party. Now, after ten years, they are drawn back together by the same mystery.
I liked how this story shows friendship, family problems, and secrets. Charlotte is a brave girl who doesn’t fit in with others at school, and I felt a connection with her because I’ve also experienced moments where I felt different from everyone around me. Tristan is also a good character, someone who hides his pain and magic because of strict laws. I really enjoyed the way the book showed both Charlotte and Tristan’s thoughts in different chapters. It made me feel close to both characters.
What made me like this book is how it mixes magic with simple emotions like love, anger, and trust. I could imagine the island, the quiet beaches, and the fear people had about magic. It also made me think about old friendships in my own life and how sometimes people stay apart because of misunderstandings. This story reminds us that it’s never too late to talk and fix things, no matter how many years have passed.
I would recommend The Impossible Spell to readers who like stories about magic, family secrets, and strong friendships. If you enjoy books that slowly reveal their mysteries and show how people find courage in difficult times, you will like this one too. It’s a good, simple story with feelings, friendship, and a little magic✨.
I liked how this story shows friendship, family problems, and secrets. Charlotte is a brave girl who doesn’t fit in with others at school, and I felt a connection with her because I’ve also experienced moments where I felt different from everyone around me. Tristan is also a good character, someone who hides his pain and magic because of strict laws. I really enjoyed the way the book showed both Charlotte and Tristan’s thoughts in different chapters. It made me feel close to both characters.
What made me like this book is how it mixes magic with simple emotions like love, anger, and trust. I could imagine the island, the quiet beaches, and the fear people had about magic. It also made me think about old friendships in my own life and how sometimes people stay apart because of misunderstandings. This story reminds us that it’s never too late to talk and fix things, no matter how many years have passed.
I would recommend The Impossible Spell to readers who like stories about magic, family secrets, and strong friendships. If you enjoy books that slowly reveal their mysteries and show how people find courage in difficult times, you will like this one too. It’s a good, simple story with feelings, friendship, and a little magic✨.
August 10, 2025
Marianne Curley’s The Impossible Spell is a compelling entry in the young adult fantasy genre, blending magic, teenage angst, and emotional complexity into a richly layered narrative. Set on the mystical Emerald Island, the story follows two interconnected perspectives—Charlotte, a reluctant witch with a haunting past, and Tristan, a boy marked by loss and mystery. Curley, known for her work in YA fantasy (Old Magic, The Guardians of Time series), returns with a story that examines the burden of heritage, the cost of magic, and the trials of coming of age.
At the heart of the novel lies a magical dilemma: Charlotte is asked by her best (and only) friend Abbie to cast a love spell on Tristan Bonner, the very boy Charlotte has secretly loved for most of her life. Unbeknownst to the girls, Tristan carries his own scars—both emotional and magical—linked to his mother’s disappearance and a legacy he doesn't fully understand. As the spell goes awry, it triggers forces far beyond teenage longing, hinting at a deeper and darker magical history rooted in the island itself.
Curley’s writing captures the emotional intensity of adolescence, especially the fragile bonds of friendship, unspoken desires, and the confusion that comes with power. Her characters are well-drawn and flawed in believable ways, making their emotional stakes feel real. Through dual points of view, the story provides balanced insight into each character’s internal world.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell explores the idea that magic can’t fix everything—especially not matters of the heart. With atmospheric prose and a slow-burning mystery, the novel sets up what promises to be a thrilling and emotional series.
At the heart of the novel lies a magical dilemma: Charlotte is asked by her best (and only) friend Abbie to cast a love spell on Tristan Bonner, the very boy Charlotte has secretly loved for most of her life. Unbeknownst to the girls, Tristan carries his own scars—both emotional and magical—linked to his mother’s disappearance and a legacy he doesn't fully understand. As the spell goes awry, it triggers forces far beyond teenage longing, hinting at a deeper and darker magical history rooted in the island itself.
Curley’s writing captures the emotional intensity of adolescence, especially the fragile bonds of friendship, unspoken desires, and the confusion that comes with power. Her characters are well-drawn and flawed in believable ways, making their emotional stakes feel real. Through dual points of view, the story provides balanced insight into each character’s internal world.
Ultimately, The Impossible Spell explores the idea that magic can’t fix everything—especially not matters of the heart. With atmospheric prose and a slow-burning mystery, the novel sets up what promises to be a thrilling and emotional series.
August 10, 2025
I stumbled upon The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley one quiet afternoon in a secondhand bookstore tucked between a bakery and an antique shop. The cover was slightly worn, and the title intrigued me. I picked it up expecting a light fantasy read, but within the first few pages, I found myself swept into the emotionally tangled lives of Charlotte, Abbie, and Tristan. The story immediately struck a chord, not just because of its magical elements, but because of the aching honesty behind the characters’ choices and vulnerabilities.
Charlotte's quiet strength and her hidden heartbreak resonated with me deeply. I’ve been the silent observer before, the one who stays in the background while others shine brighter. Watching her wrestle between loyalty to her best friend and her own unspoken love for Tristan was both painful and beautiful. Marianne Curley doesn’t just write spells and secrets — she writes emotions that simmer beneath the surface and threaten to crack wide open at any moment.
What made this story unforgettable was how real it felt, even with the magic woven through. The characters’ pain, hope, and fear felt tangible — like I was walking beside them through Emerald Island’s haunting forests and shimmering coastlines. It reminded me of the power of stories to mirror our own desires and dilemmas, wrapped in the veil of fantasy.
I left that bookstore with more than just a book. The Impossible Spell stayed with me because it dared to explore how love, friendship, and magic can collide — sometimes tragically, sometimes beautifully. It made me feel seen in a way few YA novels do.
Charlotte's quiet strength and her hidden heartbreak resonated with me deeply. I’ve been the silent observer before, the one who stays in the background while others shine brighter. Watching her wrestle between loyalty to her best friend and her own unspoken love for Tristan was both painful and beautiful. Marianne Curley doesn’t just write spells and secrets — she writes emotions that simmer beneath the surface and threaten to crack wide open at any moment.
What made this story unforgettable was how real it felt, even with the magic woven through. The characters’ pain, hope, and fear felt tangible — like I was walking beside them through Emerald Island’s haunting forests and shimmering coastlines. It reminded me of the power of stories to mirror our own desires and dilemmas, wrapped in the veil of fantasy.
I left that bookstore with more than just a book. The Impossible Spell stayed with me because it dared to explore how love, friendship, and magic can collide — sometimes tragically, sometimes beautifully. It made me feel seen in a way few YA novels do.
August 10, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley
"You can’t know what effect a spell might have on a person. We’re all different, Abbie. What if the spell works too well?” This moment of hesitation from Charlotte, the novel’s introspective protagonist, perfectly captures the heart of The Impossible Spell—a story as much about identity and moral conflict as it is about magic. Marianne Curley’s world is rooted in enchantment, but it’s the emotional truth and human vulnerability behind each spell that gives this tale its power.
Curley masterfully explores themes of loyalty, invisibility, and longing through the relationship between Charlotte and Abbie. Their friendship is complicated by unspoken desires and shared trauma, particularly Charlotte’s secret love for Tristan Bonner. The tension is subtle but ever-present, simmering beneath each exchange and building a fragile emotional landscape that magic alone cannot fix.
Tristan’s perspective adds a welcome duality, grounding the supernatural in personal history. His own magical lineage and mysterious past give depth to the central conflict, as he too wrestles with the weight of inherited sorrow and unknown truths. His discovery of a spell cast upon him marks a turning point—not just in plot, but in the emotional stakes for every character involved.
At its core, The Impossible Spell is not about the magic we conjure with spells, but the unintended magic of our choices, our silence, and our love. Through one seemingly small moment of doubt and integrity, Curley reveals the extraordinary burden—and beauty—of doing the right thing when the heart wants otherwise.
"You can’t know what effect a spell might have on a person. We’re all different, Abbie. What if the spell works too well?” This moment of hesitation from Charlotte, the novel’s introspective protagonist, perfectly captures the heart of The Impossible Spell—a story as much about identity and moral conflict as it is about magic. Marianne Curley’s world is rooted in enchantment, but it’s the emotional truth and human vulnerability behind each spell that gives this tale its power.
Curley masterfully explores themes of loyalty, invisibility, and longing through the relationship between Charlotte and Abbie. Their friendship is complicated by unspoken desires and shared trauma, particularly Charlotte’s secret love for Tristan Bonner. The tension is subtle but ever-present, simmering beneath each exchange and building a fragile emotional landscape that magic alone cannot fix.
Tristan’s perspective adds a welcome duality, grounding the supernatural in personal history. His own magical lineage and mysterious past give depth to the central conflict, as he too wrestles with the weight of inherited sorrow and unknown truths. His discovery of a spell cast upon him marks a turning point—not just in plot, but in the emotional stakes for every character involved.
At its core, The Impossible Spell is not about the magic we conjure with spells, but the unintended magic of our choices, our silence, and our love. Through one seemingly small moment of doubt and integrity, Curley reveals the extraordinary burden—and beauty—of doing the right thing when the heart wants otherwise.
August 10, 2025
The Impossible Spell is a tender, intricately woven story that dances between friendship, longing, and the quiet ache of unspoken love. Marianne Curley breathes life into Charlotte and Abbie with such authenticity that their voices linger long after the final page. The tension between Charlotte’s loyalty to her best friend and her secret love for Tristan is painfully real, beautifully written, and emotionally resonant. Curley doesn't shy away from the rawness of teenage loneliness and the desperate desire to be seen, making every interaction hit with truth.
What makes this story stand out is its quiet power—how magic isn’t just the spells Charlotte fears to cast, but the deeper kind found in shared laughter, vulnerable moments, and heartbreak left unsaid. The pacing never rushes; it allows us to sit with Charlotte’s inner conflict, to feel her pulse race when Abbie speaks of Tristan, and to understand why her silence isn’t weakness but sacrifice. Curley paints this emotional landscape with the softest strokes, yet the impact is profound.
The interwoven perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan provide an added depth, especially when we glimpse how their mothers' past connects their present. It’s a haunting echo of lost bonds, whispered promises, and the dangers of repeating history. Tristan’s scenes bring warmth and mystery, making his side of the story just as compelling as Charlotte’s.
Marianne Curley has created more than just a spellbinding tale—she’s captured the fragile hearts of teenagers caught between magic and reality. The Impossible Spell is a story that will leave readers touched, haunted, and quietly moved.
What makes this story stand out is its quiet power—how magic isn’t just the spells Charlotte fears to cast, but the deeper kind found in shared laughter, vulnerable moments, and heartbreak left unsaid. The pacing never rushes; it allows us to sit with Charlotte’s inner conflict, to feel her pulse race when Abbie speaks of Tristan, and to understand why her silence isn’t weakness but sacrifice. Curley paints this emotional landscape with the softest strokes, yet the impact is profound.
The interwoven perspectives of Charlotte and Tristan provide an added depth, especially when we glimpse how their mothers' past connects their present. It’s a haunting echo of lost bonds, whispered promises, and the dangers of repeating history. Tristan’s scenes bring warmth and mystery, making his side of the story just as compelling as Charlotte’s.
Marianne Curley has created more than just a spellbinding tale—she’s captured the fragile hearts of teenagers caught between magic and reality. The Impossible Spell is a story that will leave readers touched, haunted, and quietly moved.
June 23, 2025
If you have enjoyed any of Marianne Curley’s books, then I think you would love The Impossible Spell. It has everything her other books have and more. And for those unfamiliar with Marianne Curley’s writings, I recommend The Impossible Spell to people who enjoy well-rounded characters, great writing and an intriguing plot that will keep you guessing.
Charlotte is different from the “normal” school crowd and therefore doesn’t fit in. She has only one friend in shy classmate Abbie, who lacks a belief in herself and the self-confidence that Charlotte has. But Abbie loves magic and there’s something very magical about Charlotte. Then there’s Tristan, an old family friend of Charlotte’s who can also work magic, but due to their island’s imprisonment laws if caught, Tristan keeps his abilities quiet. Not even his close friends are aware of what he can do, or how strong he is.
Charlotte and Tristan’s mothers were best friends. One night while working a dangerous spell they disappeared and have not been seen since. On the anniversary of their disappearance Charlotte thinks she’s figured out what happened and wants to recreate their last spell. Only, she needs Tristan’s help, but he has not spoken to her for ten years.
The Impossible Spell is captivating from beginning to end. The descriptions of the scenic island they live on, and the round, fullness of characters as they create magic with emotions fuelling their hearts, make this book stand out.
Charlotte is different from the “normal” school crowd and therefore doesn’t fit in. She has only one friend in shy classmate Abbie, who lacks a belief in herself and the self-confidence that Charlotte has. But Abbie loves magic and there’s something very magical about Charlotte. Then there’s Tristan, an old family friend of Charlotte’s who can also work magic, but due to their island’s imprisonment laws if caught, Tristan keeps his abilities quiet. Not even his close friends are aware of what he can do, or how strong he is.
Charlotte and Tristan’s mothers were best friends. One night while working a dangerous spell they disappeared and have not been seen since. On the anniversary of their disappearance Charlotte thinks she’s figured out what happened and wants to recreate their last spell. Only, she needs Tristan’s help, but he has not spoken to her for ten years.
The Impossible Spell is captivating from beginning to end. The descriptions of the scenic island they live on, and the round, fullness of characters as they create magic with emotions fuelling their hearts, make this book stand out.
October 23, 2025
The Impossible Spell pulls you in right from the first line with its eerie and atmospheric setting, Emerald Island, a place brimming with secrets, whispers of curses, and forbidden magic. What I loved most is how the story weaves together mystery, friendship, and the bittersweet pull of family ties.
Charlotte and Tristan’s journey feels deeply human, even as it’s surrounded by supernatural forces. Their strained friendship, their longing for truth, and the tragic history that binds their families make the story both haunting and heartfelt. The idea of magic being outlawed, yet still flowing through their veins, adds a great layer of tension and wonder.
The author does a fantastic job creating a vivid world: you can almost feel the isolation of the island, the chill of the Southern Ocean, and the weight of secrets buried in time. The emotional stakes are high, especially as Charlotte and Tristan rediscover each other and face the pain (literally and figuratively) that’s kept them apart.
It’s a story about courage, love, and the danger of truths long hidden, beautifully written and perfectly paced. Fans of YA paranormal fantasy and stories with mystery and heart will absolutely enjoy this one!
Charlotte and Tristan’s journey feels deeply human, even as it’s surrounded by supernatural forces. Their strained friendship, their longing for truth, and the tragic history that binds their families make the story both haunting and heartfelt. The idea of magic being outlawed, yet still flowing through their veins, adds a great layer of tension and wonder.
The author does a fantastic job creating a vivid world: you can almost feel the isolation of the island, the chill of the Southern Ocean, and the weight of secrets buried in time. The emotional stakes are high, especially as Charlotte and Tristan rediscover each other and face the pain (literally and figuratively) that’s kept them apart.
It’s a story about courage, love, and the danger of truths long hidden, beautifully written and perfectly paced. Fans of YA paranormal fantasy and stories with mystery and heart will absolutely enjoy this one!
November 24, 2025
The Impossible Spell by Marianne Curley is a magical and emotional YA fantasy that pulls you in from the very first pages. The story follows Charlotte, a quiet but gifted young witch whose life changes the moment she agrees to help her best friend cast a simple spell. What starts as a harmless favour quickly turns into something far more powerful unleashing dangerous magic and setting off events that connect deeply to her mother’s disappearance sixteen years earlier.
At the same time, we follow Tristan, a boy dealing with his own painful past and unexplained magical abilities. When Charlotte and Tristan are drawn together, the truth about their families, their pasts, and an ancient spell begins to unfold. The mix of modern-day Emerald Island and ancient Egyptian history adds a fresh and exciting twist that keeps the story unpredictable and engaging.
What I enjoyed most is the strong emotional core, friendship, loss, identity, and the courage to face the unknown. The magic is intense and beautifully written, the tension builds chapter by chapter, and the time-travel twist adds a whole new depth.
A spellbinding, adventurous, and heartfelt read. Perfect for fans of YA fantasy with mystery, magic, and meaningful character journeys.
At the same time, we follow Tristan, a boy dealing with his own painful past and unexplained magical abilities. When Charlotte and Tristan are drawn together, the truth about their families, their pasts, and an ancient spell begins to unfold. The mix of modern-day Emerald Island and ancient Egyptian history adds a fresh and exciting twist that keeps the story unpredictable and engaging.
What I enjoyed most is the strong emotional core, friendship, loss, identity, and the courage to face the unknown. The magic is intense and beautifully written, the tension builds chapter by chapter, and the time-travel twist adds a whole new depth.
A spellbinding, adventurous, and heartfelt read. Perfect for fans of YA fantasy with mystery, magic, and meaningful character journeys.
September 23, 2025
The Impossible Spell is everything I want in YA paranormal fantasy: mystery, forbidden magic, and characters whose courage makes your heart ache. Charlotte’s determination to uncover the truth about her mother’s disappearance feels raw and real, and Tristan’s reluctant involvement adds the perfect balance of tension and loyalty. Marianne Curley has woven a story that’s both atmospheric and gripping. Emerald Island practically breathes on the page. A brilliant start to what feels like a must-follow series.
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