A Halloween's Curse

The Portal Prophecies #2

by C.A. King

Book Two of The Portal Prophecies Series!

Why do prophecies have to speak in riddles? Willow's destiny led her to a whole book of them. If that wasn't bad enough a gypsy witch shows up and utters words that made even less sense. Was it a curse or another prediction? With Mike still missing, and Halloween approaching quickly Willow will need all of her friends to help connect the events of the past with the present or there may not be a future. King Cornelius' plan to dominate every realm is woven into the mystery that surrounds every corner they turn. Following the clues will lead them on a journey through the spookiest time of the year.

217 pages, Paperback

First published October 28, 2014

About the author

2 time USA Today Bestselling Author, C.A. King, has received the following Awards/distinctions:


Hamilton Spectator Readers' Choice Award in the Best Local Author category 2017 & 2018 & 2019
Brant News Readers' Choice Award: Best Local Author 2017
Readers' Favorite International Book Awards: Best Novella/Short Story 2017 Silver medal
2017 SIBA Awards - Best Novella
2017 SIBA Awards - Best New Adult
2018 Readers' Favorite International Book Awards: Gold Medal in the Fiction - Supernatural genre
2018 Readers' Favorite International Book Awards: Bronze Medal in the Fiction - New Adult genre
2019 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Fiction - Supernatural genre
2019 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Young Adult - Fantasy - Urban genre
City of Brantford Featured Artist February 2020
Burlington Post Readers' Choice Award in the Best Local Author Category 2020
Toronto Star Readers' Choice Award in the Best Local Author Category 2020
Burlington Post Readers' Choice Award in the Best Local Author Category 2021.

"Hmmmmmm,
Who am I?…Who am I?
Silence…chews pencil…
Who am I?…Who am I?
Hmmmmmm,
I am…
a daydreamer…a hopeless romantic…an optimistic pessimist…a psychic…a childish adult…an animal lover…an over-emotional wreck…an adventurer…an artistic fool…
Aha!
I am…A Fiction Writer!
Nice to meet you!"

About the author!

I was diagnosed with clinical depression after the loss of my mother, father and husband within three years of each other; all to cancer. 24/7 in-home care, coupled with the loss I felt, left its mark on my psyche.

Depression takes up a lot of my life. Reading and writing are the only things I have found that help (in connection with regular medication), even if only for a short time. To escape to a different world can make a big difference in my mood in real time.

To put things in perspective, when I was at my lowest point, I couldn't open mail, talk on the phone, or even drive to the store. Walls of sadness surrounded me. As they closed in, tears would fall. There didn't need to be a reason or trigger.

People ask me why I started writing. My answer is simple: I wanted to create a world into which other people with similar problems could escape. I wanted to share the one place that had helped me for many years.


I have always said that as long as one person finds a little bit of happiness out of my books, I am, in my opinion, an accomplished author. The same is true for every writer out there. Please don't ever let anyone tell you different.

I read books as well as write them and have visited the worlds many different authors have created. Those worlds not only make me feel better, but give me the strength to face real life again. I want to thank everyone who writes - I want them to know they are making a difference.

Thank you for reading and writing.

Reviews

[Amy Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of the Portal Prophecies series picks up right where the first left off. Willow and her group are still trying to understand and strengthen their powers in this much larger world that is foreign to them. They have made new allies and their group grows as they discover there is much magic on this world surrounded by people unaware of anything magic at all. William inadvertently becomes the new leader of the group by taking on so many responsibilities and keeping everyone focused. Willow matures more into her powers and many other ways.

Another prophecy from the book begins to stand out to them after Willow and Mike are approached by a mysterious gypsy woman with a cryptic warning of her own. Since it involves a holiday called Halloween that isn't far away they begin to tirelessly try to decode what it means. Two teams decide to explore places with magic histories to learn more about the world and how it could connect to the prophecy when Willow's team gets tricked into a place that isn't quite what it seems. This experience adds more questions than it answers and it seems King Cornelius or his children may be involved. The closer they get to solving the mystery of the prophecy, the more danger they encounter.

This book definitely does not disappoint with more character development, lore and beautiful places. This was a great continuation of the series and fun to read right before Halloween. I will definitely be continuing this series!

Book provided by the author for a fair and honest review.

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the continuation to the portal prophecies . When reading the book it seems like at times your reading riddles but your not. It is the way the story is written.
With Halloween approaching Willow needs to get her friends together and help her connect with the different events that have happened through the years past and present. In which there may have a future.

It also explains more what hollows eve is about in the book. Whereas sometimes blood flows and sometimes death the story is based around the time of Halloween. As the story combines the tales surrounding Halloween and witches, with the larger narrative. By the end of the book, a great deal more has been revealed about the enemies plans, more of the history has been revealed, and the protagonists have grown more comfortable with their powers. This book had a decidedly darker tone than the first book, owing in part to the Halloween aspect of this one but it also served to underscore how dangerous the enemy is.

Great author and book and looking forward to the next book. Sorry it is late as I was feeling ill again. Looking forward to the next book.

[J.D. Cunegan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A follow-up to A Keeper's Destiny, A Halloween's Curse is a strong follow-up that raises the stakes beyond a simple coming-of-age tale.

Make no mistake; Willow sees tremendous growth throughout A Halloween's Curse, but the focus is less on her and more about the mission she and her friends have to undertake. Along the way, we're shown that things run far deeper than previously thought, and the nuggets of behind-the-scenes machinations give this book a depth that I feel A Keeper's Destiny lacked.

The addition of Halloween as a backdrop enriches the story even further, and it shows the world in a much deeper light. I like the inclusion of Halloween to the overall narrative, and it's not just a backdrop; it actually affects the characters as they work to rescue their friend. This is not the last time C.A. King will imbue one of her books with a holiday tradition, either.

Some of the issues that plagued A Keeper's Destiny are present in this book as well, but they aren't as numerous and this is a cleaner, tighter story than its predecessor. King is building a rich, vibrant universe, and while some of the minor characters are a bit one-dimensional at this point, Willow herself shines as a protagonist should.

All in all, this is a fantastic follow-up, and a wonderful addition to what is shaping up to be a great series.

[D.R. Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second installment of The Portal Prophecies expands the world and continues the stories of interesting characters. I loved the development and progress, plus the setting reminded me of one of my favorite places. I'll keep on reading!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book off good reads. I had no idea what to expect. It was a definite page turner. The use of emotion and magic was great. The characters and there relationships were interesting. I will definitely be looking to read the rest of series. The story itself had a awesome plot and adventure in it. i enjoyed it.

[John Stratford · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Halloween's Curse continues a wonderful series. Original ideas mixed with otherworldly wisdom and new world innocence makes for a book I could not put down. I Can not wait for the next. C.A. King has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Enjoy.

[M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story. I won this in a contest and it was a good read. Thank you!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

A Halloween’s Curse is the second book in The Portal Prophecies Series by C.A King. This story is a Young Adult/ fantasy/paranormal adventure full mythical creatures, magic, some action and lots of drama.
The Portal Prophecies started with A Keeper’s Destiny- where we learned that many years ago some ancient races called the guardians placed barriers between all the realms in an attempt to protect the peaceful inhabitants of some worlds from the dangerous ones in other realms. The realms were only accessible by ‘portals’ that only the guardians could activate.
With the help of a group of protectors, they guarded the portals from being breached. Until the day a very evil King discovered a way to rip holes through the barriers, and then everything changes. It resulted in a war with the guardians and their helpers, and as a result there are only a handful of protectors left. Now, random holes appear in the barriers which have allowed all manner of beings to access the main world. Because of this, many different races from different realms live here- most live peacefully- but there are a few with quite sinister intentions and a desire for domination and subjugation.
Here we met Willow and a group of her close friends who set out on a quest to save all of existence when all the worlds are threatened by the evil king. She discovers her abilities and all about The Portal Prophecies, which is a book containing predictions that will help them in their quest, these prophecies are the key to succeeding in their quest and for their survival; but the tricky part is in deciphering them correctly and quickly enough.
So in this book, we pick up right where the first book left off. Willow and her friends are deciphering the prophecies as best they can. They are really ‘flying by the seat of their pants’ as they really don’t have much experience in these matters- learning as they go, and discovering their own and each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
One of their friends went missing and they’ve discovered that he is in danger. They need to go after him and mount a rescue. They finally find him, but not before experiencing a lot of difficulties and deception. They also discover that all is not what it seems and in the process they to try to help as many beings as they can.
This book also centres around Halloween. Willow encounters a gypsy witch who delivers another prophecy, in the form of a riddle. The prophecy concentrates on Halloween and foretells of danger. So once again, Willow and her friends must decipher the prophecy time to stop King Cornelius from assuming control of smaller realms and disposing of anyone he deems a threat.

This book is fast paced, with detailed and descriptive imagery. There were moments where I lost track a little because there is so much going on, so many characters to keep track of and an incredible amount of dialog being brandished around. I felt I needed to be constantly vigilant or I would miss something. I didn’t relax into the story and lose myself in it, as I have in other books from Ms. King. That being said, the story itself is great and very imaginative- I just felt that this got a little ‘wordy’ with so much dialogue.
This book has a bit of a ‘darker’ feel to it, than the first one and I enjoyed how the author incorporated Halloween, witches and other mystical/mythical elements into the story.
I did like seeing that Willow grew a lot throughout this story. She really is on a journey of discovery- not just about the quest and prophecies, but about herself and her own strengths and limitations. She also has an increase in her confidence, powers and abilities and she is capable of so much more that she was in the first book.
The ending of this book sets us up for book #3- and I am fascinated to find out what happens next.

Thank you Ms. King!

[Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Halloween’s Curse, by C.A. King, is a fantastic continuation of The Portal Prophecies series. Much more so than the first book, A Keeper’s Destiny, it has a strong urban fantasy feel which I particularly enjoyed.

The prophecies that determine much of the story in A Halloween’s Curse, as well as the first major dilemma our heroes have to deal with, are established at the end of the previous book. This meant I was particularly eager to get on with reading it and finding out what happened next! As often seems to be the case with prophecies, there are many ways in which they might be interpreted and so, over the course of the book, we get various hints at what they might be and they are fulfilled in different, often surprising ways throughout the story.

The Halloween theme is a big part of the book, which is full of witches, ghosts, zombie-like creatures and vampire-like creatures, as well as costumes and carved pumpkins and everything else you might expect. This is quite fun, and done cleverly within the universe King has established in the previous book.

King continues to work well with a large cast of characters, something I really admired in A Keeper’s Destiny. Each character has their own unique abilities and importance to the story, and King often splits the characters off into smaller groups which works well to allow them all a bit of time to shine. Even more characters are introduced in A Halloween’s Curse and, for the most part, I had very little difficulty keeping up with who was who. There were a few points where I forgot who was in a group but King often reminds the reader of who is where so it didn’t take long to catch up.

I give this book five out of five stars. If you’re looking for an urban fantasy with a Halloween theme this is definitely a good option! Without the previous book there are some things which would make less sense but much of it is explained in the first few chapters, especially things that are relevant to the plot, so you could probably catch up. If you’ve got the time, though, and aren’t just looking for something Halloweeny, I’d highly recommend starting with A Keeper’s Destiny!

[Anita Glover · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two of six books that form ‘The Portal Prophecies’ Series. This book, A Halloween’s Curse; continues on from book 1. It follows the quest of ancient races that join together to help save the many worlds and realms in which they live .The only clues they have to help them are hidden within a book of prophecies which was written long ago. They learn that the prophecies are the key to their survival but can they decipher and understand them in time to act upon them?
Willow (a teenage enchantress and the main character) meets up with a gypsy witch who gives her another prophecy as a riddle. The prophecy centres on Halloween and warns of danger. Can Willow and her friends decipher it in time to prevent King Cornelius and his children taking over other smaller worlds and eliminating any ‘being’ with significant magical skills who would be a threat to their success?
As the story of their quest continues Willow and her friends learn more about their own world so their depth and understanding of their task increases as they endeavour to follow it through to unite all beings against the evil uprising. Their loyal group increases in size and incorporates different ‘beings’ from other worlds. Their powers become stronger as they learn how to manage and control them. Who you are (rank and status) doesn’t matter, it’s more about what you are like as a ‘being’ that matters to the group. Pride, envy and selfishness are undesirable traits: only faith, loyalty, teamwork and a common desire for good to prevail is important as the worlds and different beings gradually unite.
Halloween and its customs is the setting both in the ‘real world’ and the magical world which gives the story a ‘realistic’ vibe as they search for the gypsy witch. Explanations are given to Willow and her friends as to why not all witches dress in black and have green skin and why witches have ‘familiars’ and what their signs are.
Willow again meets up with King Cornelius’ son Lance and realises that with Lance all may not be as it seems. Can she trust him?
Also Willow comes close to finding out what happened to her parents, especially her father? Will she find them or is it too late? Can the Guardians help her?
As a character Willow grows so much during this story, it is great to see her maturing, learning more and more about herself as a person. Her powers and her capabilities increase as she is more and more able to believe in herself and understand herself. It isn’t often you can see a character grow and mature to this depth. C A King’s sequel doesn’t disappoint. All the ideas (and more) that were presented in book one are followed through and built upon. The characters all grow and mature and there is very realistic interaction between them. I love the way in which C A King blends her own ideas with myths and legends to create a deeper, darker world.
While ‘A Halloween’s Curse’ has a complete ending – not a cliff hanger – it does set things up for book 3, which I will definitely be looking for and reading. I love this series.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween's Curse by CA King is the second book in this series. I highly recommend the first book as this one starts where the first left off. This story is a paranormal/fantasy book that will take on a journey of mystery and suspense. This story has twists and turns that will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. You will enjoy how this author has created a story that will pull you in from the first chapter. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is the creation of her characters. They are interesting and really do make the story flow. Find out what happens to these group of teenagers next.

Willow and her friends are still trying to figure out what the prophecies mean. They are still learning what they mean to them and what powers they are hiding. What happens when a witch shows up and utters another prediction that doesn't make sense? Mike is still missing and Halloween approaching, they are trying to connect the present and the past before they lose their future. King Cornelius's plan to take over every realm is a mystery that hides behind every corner they meet. They follow the clues during the spookiest time of the year, where will they lead them? Are they safe? Is there danger lurking behind every corner? Will they be able to help those that have been torn from their homes? Where will the prophecies lead them?

The whole group of teenagers are the characters in this book but Willow is the one that stands out the most. She is a strong character that knows what she wants and how to get there. She is a very likable character and you will find yourself wanting to help her figure out the prophecies. In my opinion, Willow seems to grow into her own in this story. The other characters each have their own story and it makes the story interesting and engaging. Will they be able to save their friends? Will they save those who are filled with magic and those who come from different worlds? Find out what happens to Willow and her friends in this story.

This is the second book I have read from this series and I think it is my favorite one of this series. CA King has a way of creating characters that really pop off the page with their own attitudes and sassy. C.A currently lives in Ontario, Canada with her two sons, she was born and raised in Halton County. After losing her parents and husband, she turned to writing and after some soul searching it has become her passion. She was able to put her emotions on paper and started publishing her stories. You will enjoy how this story will make you lose track of time when reading it. The characters are engaging and make the story interesting, leaving you wanting to see more from them. This story is a fast paced story that will have you turning page after page wanting to see what hides behind the next corner. I highly recommend this story as I know you will enjoy see what happens next with Willow and her friends.

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween Curse by C.A. King is the second book in The Portal Prophecies Series and once again C.A. King has written an astonishing read. This novel is more of a young adult read but can be read by anyone of all ages. I absolutely loved reading A Halloween Curse and how the paranormal and fantasy can come into play with the characters. What happens when you find a book of riddles that you can’t understand but then a witch utters words that you should know but don’t. Your friends are there to help but they don’t understand what is happening either and you haven’t been able to find Mike yet. This novel continues from where the first novel left off and isn’t a standalone. You definitely need to read these novels in order. This novel, like the first, is filled with suspense and mystery, secrecy and prophecies no one can decode or understand. Willow, the main character, is so well developed, it’s almost like she is a real teenager trying to solve a puzzle with her friends. Almost reminds me of the Nancy Drew Mysteries I read as a young girl and would love to see some of the younger generation start reading more of these novels. C.A. King is a wonderful writer who knows how to keep an audience captivated and interested in reading a novel or a series. In order to find out what happens to the group and what comes next, you have to keep reading.

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the second in The Portal Prophecies series and picks up from where the first book left off. Once again we find Willow and her band of friends trying to decipher the prophecies. They are trying to learn what they know, what they need to know and where they should be with learning their strength and weaknesses. After one of their friends goes missing Willow and her best friends have learnt through one their powers just what one of the prophecies means. They discover that he is in danger and they need to go after him now. After trials and tribulation, lies and deceit they finally find Mike. After they return they learn more and more around them is not what it seems. They set about trying to help those that have been torn from their homes and worlds, those that have been misunderstood.

Halloween is fast approaching, prophecies are proving hard to decipher and friends are not what they seem. Willow is approached by a Witch who is also a Gypsy. She speaks words that make no sense and can only be a prophecy. This leads to a hunt to find out who this woman is and what she is trying to say. What they find only leads to more questions, more mystery and more unknown. They also find a betrayal that was in the works long before they arrived and yet leads them closer to danger. They evil, King Cornelius and his family are still searching and destroying world not realising that what they seek is closer than they realise.

As Halloween is no upon them they must race against time to save not only their friends but those who live with magic, come from different worlds, but they must save themselves. In doing so they discover an unlikely alliance.

Will they be able to get to their friends in time? Will they be able to stop the evil? Will they help one who is an enemy?

This story as with the first was filled with different worlds magic, adventure and different creatures and beings. Each character has their own story and I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading anything paranormal, supernatural and fantasy.

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween's Curse
By: C.A. King
5 out of 5 stars

The story The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween's Curse by C.A. King is a paranormal/fantasy book. The second book in The Portal Prophecies finds Willow and her friends looking for the still missing Mike and trying to solve one of the prophecies. It takes you on a fast-paced adventure that is full of mystery and surprises. I have read several books by the author and have found all of them to be wonderfully written and the characters well developed. This story has everyone preparing for Halloween and trying to find Mike. Dream walking comes into play and starts the journey to save their friend. What comes next leads the teams that are sent into danger and possibly tragedy. The twists and turns during this rescue will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next.

The rescue mission to save Mike causes new concerns to arise. Everyone knows that there are forces working against them and they need to stay vigilant in order to survive. Teams are again formed and sent out to gather information on how to proceed next. This is also a side story about Willow. She is confused as to her newfound feelings for a couple of her teammates and also for someone she would never have guessed. This leads to some tense situations. Then a new danger arises. It calls into question the loyalty of those around Willow and could lead to disaster. Will Willow and her friends be able to solve the prophecy and make sure any evil plans are thwarted?

This book has Willow making new friends and finding new allies. It also has danger lurking around every corner and has Willow wishing that the prophecies were easier to figure out. I love the character of Willow and the guardians that are helping her. Don’t miss out on the next adventure in The Portal Prophecies. There are still prophecies to be unearthed and revealed. I can’t wait to read the next story in the series.

[Sage Nestler · Rating 4 out of 5]

C.A. King has a magnificent imagination. The world that she has created is a universe of its own. I love how King's novels revolve around a set of prophecies that guide the characters and unfold mysteries, and I couldn't put this novel down. There is a big difference in King's writing style from the first novel in The Portal Prophecies series and this sequel. King has grown artistically, and this novel is my favorite of hers yet.

Many authors who write long series such as King often fall into the trap of the cliffhanger. I find that many books in a series end up relying on the cliffhanger to influence readers to continue the series, but King does not do that. She writes each novel as though it is her only one, and I loved how well she developed her characters in A Halloween's Curse. Each sentence of King's has a poetic tilt to it, and I enjoyed watching her world build up around me as I read.

"She looked up and nodded her head in agreement. resolve exploding from her eyes."

Willow has become one of my favorite characters, and I enjoyed the incorporation of Halloween into this novel. It helped to blend fantasy with mythology while blending King's ideas with ancient ones. Reading A Halloween's Curse felt like a race for time, and I am eager to pick up the third book in the series.

King has brought an inventive new fantasy series to the table, and I can't wait to see where she goes from here!

[Jean Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of the Portal Prophecies
A Halloween Curse
C. A. King has again, proven herself to be a five star writer. In the Portal Prophecies, A Halloween Curse, the second book in the Portal Prophecies series, we follow Willow and her friends as they navigate a brand new world with very new and very different rules. The people on this world don’t even possess magic. In fact, in this world, magic is strange and foreign and very frightening to them.
In this setting, Willow and her friends must increasingly develop their powers while relying on each other, while learning the rules that govern a strange new world. A world where seasons change and trees change colors and go to sleep. A world where winter comes. But, before winter arrives, Halloween is celebrated. The most magical time of the year, when the barriers between the worlds thin and anything can enter, and anything can happen.
As Willow and her friends are discovering this new world, they are also discovering how to control their new abilities which seem to be getting stronger every day. And, there are other discoveries made in this strange new world, where they confront potential invaders, and dabble in the potential mysteries of love, or at least, intense like.
C. A. King has created a world rich in new experiences and new feelings and we are there for every exciting step, as the characters embark on their new journeys, both across the worlds and into adulthood. She has brought her world to life in a truly matical way. There are plot twists galore and unlikely alliances, heroes and villains enough to keep you guessing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next one in the series.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween's Curse by C.A. King 4 stars.
This review may contain spoilers from book 1.

Willow is just a teenager who grew up lonely, without her parents. She has never understood love, she’s never really had it. But she has special abilities and a group of friends and people who also have their own types of special abilities. This is as much as a family as she has ever known and she is happy. But then one of her friends go missing. With the help of two other girls who are dreamwalkers like her, they are given some more information and leads her to believe that their missing friend Mike is indeed in danger, but he needs to be found sooner rather than later. Not everyone believes Mike really is in danger, but her feelings are so strong, she just knows she’s right. She doesn’t believe in coincidences.

The others finally believe her and this starts a journey to find more information and to find the missing man. But it seems this is only the beginning. There seems to be much more going on. Each thing they discover, each place they go, takes them deeper into puzzle as to what is really going on. What is the purpose for all the things that is going on? Who is behind it all? And why do so many things point back to Willow? What would anyone want with her?

This is a wonderful book. It has all sorts of magical creatures and such an interesting story. There are so many details and little things throughout the book that keeps the reader interested the whole way through. Some books have too much description, I sometimes skip parts. This book didn’t have any of that. I did not read the first book, so I found it a bit confusing in the beginning but as I went on, I got completely engrossed in this book. I highly recommend it.

[Amelia Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Halloweens Curse is the second instalment of the The Portal Prophecies series. This book concentrates a bit less on Willow but more on uncovering the meanings of the prophecies and the team's effort in seeking them out. More alliances are made along the may and more discoveries making it so easy to submerse yourself back into this world and the quest within. The Halloween theme not only gives a great insight into the rich history of it but plays a vital part in how the group move forward and enhances the story. It also goes towards creating a more dark and eerie atmosphere than the first book which enhances the impending danger they all face.

I found this book more easy going than the first as the first contained a lot of world building. As that has already been established, there was more focus on the action and this book and introductions to new characters, beings and events were easier to absorb and comprehend.

I read this book in one morning as I could not put it down. Not only was the story gripping and fantastical, I found the writing to be very poetic in its way which made for a very exquisitely flowing read. The characters all continue to grow and, as Willow is not “up front” as much as in the first, we get to learn a bit more about the others and how they deal with things. Interesting new characters have been introduced and others explored more that I would hope to hear more about. Even though much has already been established, there is much more to keep the story fresh, exciting and full of adventure and mystery. The story is far from predictable and so far from over.

[Emma Morreale · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Halloween’s Curse is the second book in the Portal Prophecies series by C.A. King and it has just as much, if not more, going for it as the first book. I adored the first book (A Keeper’s Destiny) and was supremely excited when I got the second one, half because I was so intrigued by the story and half because of the cliffhanger from the first book. The second one did not disappoint. We learn so much more about the magical creatures inhabiting the world and their extensive powers. There is potential for so much more and I am just as excited to read the third book.
Willow and the others get many answers but just as many new questions about the prophecies and what it means for the world. One of my favorite parts of this book was the witch tour that takes place at the beginning. The tour group is taken to several places that are important historically or otherwise to witches and we are able to learn quite a bit about the magical community on Earth and how it has kept itself hidden from the terunji, or non magical population. A few new races of creatures are introduced and we learn just enough about what King Cornelius has planned for the world to worry what is coming next.
With quite a bit of doom and gloom, I was very happy to see there were still bits of humor when everyday things had to be explained to Willow and her people. Willow’s reaction to the changing of the seasons was hilarious to me.
All in all, this was a great sequel and I can’t wait to read the next one.

[Kandis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween’s Curse
by C A King
**5 Stars**

A Halloween’s Curse by C A King is the 2nd installment in The Portal Prophecies series. I am finally able to quench the thirst of the cliffhanger C A King left us with while finishing A Keeper’s Destiny. We start off exactly were the first book ended. But it seems the older people in the group need more proof than the three young keepers experience while dream walking. Questions rise after Mike disappears soon after in an estranged family member makes contact with him. Also the Halloween deadline that the gypsy witch presented to them is causing them real issues. Will Mike be found safe or will they be too late? Can they decode the riddles in the book of prophecies Or will the prophecies prove to be too much for the group?

This is such a fun fantasy series. C A King pulled through and wrote a smooth and well following story unlike the first book in the series. We have a chance to be introduced to a whole new set of fantasy characters. This is an adventure worth joining! I can't wait to read book 3!

[Daryl Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picking up from the first book in the Portal Prophecies series, this one initially fixates on deciphering one of the prophecies and rescuing a friend of Willow, the main character, who went missing at the end of Book 1. From there we get a further exploration of the universe that is being weaved by the author, as the story combines the tales surrounding Halloween and witches, with the larger narrative. By the end of the book, a great deal more has been revealed about the enemies plans, more of the history has been revealed, and the protagonists have grown more comfortable with their powers. This book had a decidedly darker tone than the first book, owing in part to the Halloween aspect of this one but it also served to underscore how dangerous the enemy is. As with the first book, the ending sets the stage for the next book, and in this particular case how this is achieved could be construed as a bit shocking! Overall, it was a fantastic sequel, and I'm even more eager to read the next book in the series than I was for this one.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was one of the fortunate winners to receive a copy of this novel on a Goodread giveaway.

I was not sure what my thoughts would be on this novel when I first began to read it but I found myself pleasantly surprised by the content.

I think it is an amazing concept and kudos to the author on the writing style. It is quite the unique blend of paranormal, witch, supernatural, fantasy that will suit many readers.

Very interesting characters and I love how they are all used and that the story is not just centralized on only one or two main ones.

I am looking forward to reading on in this series

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I voluntarily reviewed a review copy of this book*

This series definitely intrigues me. There are many different worlds and different types of beings. It is kind of hard to keep up with the many types. Willow seems to be gathering quite a few admirers which adds some drama. I am thinking Lance might not be as bad as the rest of his family. I would like to know more about Lance and what motivates him. There are so many mysteries they have to solve that sometimes it gets a bit muddled. However, the whole story has me enthralled. I just want to know what happens next. I will be looking for book 3.

[Delora · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved it! It was filled with adventure and new species that I don't usually read about but left me wanting more.
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway winner.

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading anything supernatural. Can't wait to read the other books!

[Kerry Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Halloweens Curse by C.A. King follows immediately on from the first book in the series. Still following Willow and her friends as they try to establish their new life in an unfamiliar world they know more is in store for them. But will they be in time to stop it?

“Be forewarned on Hallows Eve
Those who are not of this world shall take to the streets,
Blood shall flow and death shall follow.
Your presence attracts what we cannot explain.
Your destiny is written. You best make sure you listen.”

Willow knows that Mike is in trouble. She can’t explain how she does but she is certain that he needs their help. But if no one believes her how can she rescue him? Enlisting the help of her friends Willow sets out to prove that he is indeed in trouble before it is too late for them to do anything.
With more prophecies seeming to fit each and every day she knows it is only a matter of time before the danger that destroyed her home world will find her.

“On the outside flesh rots, but under is fine
The captors look dead, the prisoner fine,
No one notices, no one hears, a scream for help disappears
Hidden in darkness, unable to move
The ones with power have something to prove
Look for the signs that something is near
Unusual and strange, that people fear
Under a store which sells that which can be made
You will know the place by the woman with the blade
Some powers real, some not
Rope, fire and water punished the lot.”

With a new adventure looming, this time with friends old and new, Willow will have to rely on her newfound powers to make sure everyone survives. When nothing is as it seems she has to rely on her instincts to lead her in the right direction.

Another fantastic instalment to what is clearly shaping up to be an outstanding series. Just as gripped as the first book this is a continuation of the story, and the characters, you come to love in book 1. Another great read.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies: A Halloween’s Curse is a five star novel by C. A. King. Just like the first book in the series, I could not put this one down. The author is able to draw you in to her mystical half earth, half otherworldly place to make the events that happen seem realistic. Please read the first novel before going more in depth into this review. At the end of the last book, Willow has put herself into a situation that the people around her aren't quite sure she can pull herself out of. She is still young and untrained in her special gifts along with all the others that came from her world. She insisted on trying something to save a creature even though everyone else disagreed. After she saved the creature, she went into a coma. This coma has been trying to keep her safe and heal her body before she can come out of it. After several weeks, her friend decides she should go in to Willow’s dreams to try to help her find her way out. After this happens, it isn't long before Willow wakes. She is very weak until her friend shows her the branch she pulled out from the dream. Willow buries the branch and it sprouts into a gorgeous tree that gives back life and powers to all who need it. Willow feels like herself again. But this crazy new world they are in is certainly confusing to her. Even though this world is Earth, she has no idea how to get around in it. Mike starts showing her the ropes and it just seems to confuse her even more. Then Mike leaves to attend to a personal matter. After several days, Willow is missing him and wondering where he ran off to. The girls all decide to bind together in their dreams to see if they can figure out where he is. When they do this, they see that Mike is in a dangerous place and he is hurt. Now they have to go on a journey to try to bring him back home.

[Krystal gaston · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Halloweens Curse is book two in the Portals Prophecies Series written by C.A. King. Book one: A Keepers Destiny should be read first, it is not required however all the stories are based along the same characters, just different prophecies and adventures they all feed into one another.
A Halloweens Curse starts off right where A Keepers Destiny left off at, it was such a smooth transition and very well written. In this part of the story the group comes across quite a few issues where they have to branch out to seek information. They are all under the same thought that something bad will happen so Willow because of the way they interpreted a prophecy. They all learn new things and the girls learn a lot about themselves in this part. Especially Camile, she is a young teenage girl with insecurities just like anyone else, but does she cave to the pressure or dies she rise above it?
The more I read these stories the more I come to love them, they are fairly short but that just seems to make the story and adventure that much better. All the characters are growing and learning together, experiencing things they have not yet experienced, especially those not from the world they are currently in. The portals are still being found along with the pieces to open them but everything has a cost. Can the group do more good then bad when it comes to King Cornelius and his children, or will the princesses capture the group who is trying to gather information…
Next in the story is Frost bitten..
Reading order:
Book I - A Keeper’s Destiny, Book II - A Halloween's Curse, Book III – Frost Bitten, Book IV - Sleeping Sands, Book V – Deadly Perceptions, Book VI – Finding Balance

[Arien/Sloan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Portal Prophecies Halloween Curse is the second book in this wickedly good series by this author. I could hardly put this book down. As fabulous and as engaging as the first book was. This one takes place right after the first one does. Willow and her friends have dream walked and found where a missing comrade is and trying to convince the others to find him and that it's all part of the prophecy they're working on is a trying matter.
Of course they find new trouble around every corner to deal with and that is not without consequences but they also manage to find allies along the way. For Willow things are all over the place, her powers are ever growing and surpassing what others believe they should, she's still learning to deal with them too. Not to forget that she and everyone else that escaped with her are all new to where they are, they have no idea the customs and the ways of where they are. Such a strange new way of life to learn about.
Not to forget conflicting feelings about some of the men in her life; one being a supposed enemy but is he really? Is this really the time to have a romance brewing with everything else going on? And asking for a favor could cause serious issues in times to come, will it be worth the risk?
Does this new world and it's customs bring only death? Will Halloween really be the curse for this group trying to defeat King Cornelius and his children? Well you're just going to have to read it and find out!!
I give this book 5 stars and can't wait to review the next one!!

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Halloween’s Curse by CA King
Stars: 4

Willow and her friends are trying to figure out what the prophecies to help stop King Cornelius’ plan to overtake ever realm he can. A gypsy brings a warning to Willow, but it seems that both this warning and the prophecies are in riddles, which has made it very difficult to decipher. They must work together to find Mike and survive Halloween.
This is the first book in a series of six stories. Each story is based off a different prophecy. Willow and her friends struggle to find a missing friend and decipher warnings given to them to defend other worlds and people from King Cornelius’ and his family. Willow is growing and experience vast number of things that she has not yet experienced including different kinds of emotions. I loved reading about these experiences. She is learning more about herself and her abilities. In this book, lessons are learned and more questions get asked.
I thought that this story was easier to get into in than the last story. I did feel that there are a few lags in the action of the story, but that is because C.A. King is giving us so much important information about different species and abilities. There are so many individual scenes that I liked in this book that I cannot possibly chose one to state. The last chapter really does a great job of wrapping up this story. Also, I really like the twist at the end of the book. It has made me very excited to read the next story in this series.

[Stefanie Carney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Portal Prophesies series and it is official, I am completely addicted. As I read this series I obviously learn more about this magical world that overlays ours and I am truly fascinated. It seems as though as Willow and her group of heroes try to save another world from complete disaster, we learn a new spin on Halloween and all that goes along with the wonderfully spooky day. I liked this spin on our folklore, it felt fresh to me. I don’t want to compare this series with anything already written, but as I read this book and the subsequent ones that followed I felt a Harry Potter vibe to me, the young heroes coming to terms with powers while trying to remain themselves. I liked that about this book, it felt comfortable to me, like a story that I have read several times before and I couldn’t wait to read again.
I easily give this book four stars, it’s starting to get really serious but still maintains a lightness to it that I just adored. This may be a book dealing with saving several different worlds from utter destruction but it is also about trust and love and listening to yourself, following your instincts. I love young adult books that help the reader realize that we can all be heroes every day, even if it is a small thing. Heroes are the people who will fight for those who can’t fight for themselves and this book is a shining example of that and that is just one reason why I love this series.