Cursed Queen

Once Upon Ever After #1B

by Julie Saman, J. Saman

We thought we broke the curse. I married King Sebastian of Messalina. We're pregnant with twins. His children are happy and thriving in a way they never have.
All is finally perfect and as it should be.
But we were wrong.
Darkness has returned and with it comes more heartbreak and danger than any of us are prepared for.
A darkness that not only seeks death, but to tear us apart for good.

Genres: Dark Romance, Retellings, Royalty, Suspense, Romance, Audiobook, Forced Proximity

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2026

About the author

See main profile J. Saman

Reviews

[Kealyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cursed Queen by Julie Saman

Between 3.5 and 3.75 out of 5 stars

Cursed Queen is the sequel to Cursing King and it was a really enjoyable book. I liked the first one a bit more, but the conclusion of Sebastian and Bellamy's story was very satisfying.

The book starts off really happy. Sebastian and Bellamy are super happy. And the children just adore their new core family so much. Quite quickly we find out that Bellamy is expecting twins and their future seems to shine so bright.

One of the highlights of the book for me was Bellamy turning into mommy for those three little angels in this book. Phaedra, Sabrina and Zayer are just the brightest stars and I really wished they had a bigger presence in the book. They were more like side characters now and I missed them a lot. But every scene they were in? They stole it. Rightfully so.

Bellamy's father who deals with dementia has a very important part in this book as. My heart broke for him and for Bellamy. It was a beautiful but heartbreaking storyline.

Sebastian and Rowan are also trying to find out what happened to their baby sister all these years ago. Is she still alive? Did she pass? And what part plays the new nanny in the household?

This book deals with pain, loss, losing trust in someone, gaining that trust back, it deals with hope and joy and fighting for a brighter future.

I missed a bit of clarity on certain topics. They might get dealt with in the third novel. So I'll see what that one brings to this fun series.

I really like this conclusion! Between 3.5 and 3.75 out of 5 stars from me for Cursed Queen! Looking forward to Rowan and Marcella's story.

[J. Saman]

Available now!

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: http://geni.us/CursedQueen

Narrated by: Sean Masters and Desiree Ketchum
Listen today!
Audible: https://bit.ly/4aOpCeq

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/47WGoop

Start the Once Upon Ever After Series with book 1, Cursed King!
http://geni.us/CursedKing

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75🌟, 3🌶️

This sequel picks up immediately and does not hold back on the feelings.

The emotional weight is strong from the start, especially in how Bellamy processes grief and fear after everything that has unraveled. Her emotions feel honest and imperfect in a way that really worked for me, even when the story leaned a bit heavy at times.

The heart of this book is Bellamy and Sebastian’s relationship. Their marriage is tested through loss, secrets, and frustrating miscommunication, but there is never any doubt that they love each other deeply. I loved watching Bellamy grow into her role as queen, wife, and mother, and the pregnancy storyline was handled with care and warmth. The spice is very present, but it never completely overshadows the emotional connection between them.

While I liked the first book slightly more, this was still a satisfying conclusion. The antagonist surprised me, even when I thought I had everything figured out. The side characters added depth without stealing focus, and a few emotional storylines genuinely tugged at my heart.

A strong conclusion to the duet that kept me emotionally invested despite a few hiccups.

~~~~

Grateful to Julie Saman & Valentine PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All views expressed are solely my own. ✨

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back, baby!

I loved being back with King Sebastian and his new Queen Bellamy. They are now growing their family after the disturbing events at the end of Cursed King. But things are not going to be smooth sailing.

There are judgemental family members, an ailing father, a family mystery, a twin pregnancy, and many more obstacles to overcome. Plus, lots of sexy times to still explore together.

I loved seeing Bellamy with the children and watching them grow closer with her. Moving from being their nanny to their stepmother in a relatively smooth transition. Other things maybe rocky, but I was glad to see how sweet those relationships were.

The conflicts that came up were... interesting.. I don't quite know how I feel about them. Some were quite traumatic and some felt very out of character, but I enjoyed this story more than not. I look forward to seeing more in this series.

Sean Masters & Desiree Ketchum performed this narration in the dual format. I think Desiree did a wonderful job, especially with the accents of Sebastian and the children. Now, I love Sean, and I could listen to him narrate the phone book, but I don't think he ever had a solid bead on the accent he was doing. It would come and go... but anyway, still a great performance.

4 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale

CW: Kidnapping, pregnancy in danger, gun violence, death of a parent, grief, mental health

*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the Author for an ALC of this title.*

[littlesmuttyone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of getting the alc and arc for cursed queen from Valentine's PR.

I was hooked when I read cursed king im huge fan of beauty and the beast retelling as long it keeps my attention & yes Julie writing kept me addicted to it all.

I have been struggling with books, so being able to arc read cursed queen was such highlight of me getting out of that reading slump.

After everything Sebastian and Bellamy went through, i was dying to find out what happened now .

Bellamy  didn't believe in the curse, and Sebastian does, and so does his family. After so much tragedy, his family has dealt with it, which definitely makes it a bit rough on there marriage . That part was rough for me cause I just wanted them to have peace and be happy finally .

I absolutely love the children they truly love Bellamy so much, just as she loves them, which is so beautiful to read .

Sebastian man, he was so freaky, and I absolutely love that im such a sucker for King Sebastian who wouldn't.  Imagine him being yours. omg I would be on cloud 9 cause the way he oozes dominance and " you know exactly who in charge vibes."

The way Bellamy loved and cares for her dad is amazing yet so sad .

This part [ He makes me feel safe. He makes me feel loved. He makes me feel worshipped and somehow always seems to know what I need, oftentimes even before I do. His touch is electric as his large hand holds my much smaller one. And I sink into that. Taking the comfort he’s giving me and allowing it to slow my racing heart and tumultuous thoughts. ]



Charlotte was one crazy bitch .


one of my favorite quotes

[ “I need my thoughts to stop. I need my mind to shut off. I want you to make it so that I can’t think. I want you to control not only my body but my mind. Can you do that? Can you make it so that all I know, think, or feel is you?” ]

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️/2 🌶️

This was honestly the perfect ending for Seb and Bellamy’s story 🙌🏼

What really stood out to me was how much this book focused on their relationship and how they work through everything together, the highs, the lows, the messy parts. It felt so raw and emotional and every page was worth it. Their journey felt real, not rushed and that made the ending hit even harder. 💕

Bellamy’s grief was written so beautifully and Sebastian’s protectiveness completely won me over. The way their emotions were handled just pulled at my heart and made me feel everything right along with them.🥹

And those little glimpses of what’s coming next?? I’m already excited. The upcoming books and which retellings they might be have me so excited! I can’t wait for Rowan’s book. 🙌🏼

Trope: Royal romance. pregnancy

[De Rijdende Boekenwurm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Valentine PR for providing the eARC. This is my honest opinion.

Passion and Power in the Palace

'Cursed Queen' is the second installment in the 'Once Upon Ever After' series and builds naturally on the story of 'Cursed King', but it can be enjoyed even if you haven't read the first book immediately before. The story draws you into a world of chaos, passion, and emotional intensity, continuing the journey of Sebastian and Bellamy with all the tension and drama that fans of the series love.

The heart of the novel lies in the intense romance between Sebastian and Bellamy. Julie Saman explores their connection with care, showing how their relationship shifts under pressure, secrets, and difficult choices. Reading from both their perspectives makes their chemistry vivid and their moments of conflict and longing resonate deeply.

Saman's writing is smooth, clear, and vivid, painting scenes sharply and immersing the reader in the world without slowing the story. The palace feels cold and alive, whispers echo in dark corridors, and every tense glance carries weight.

For anyone who enjoys darker, emotionally charged romantic retellings with royalty, suspense, and danger, this book fits beautifully. The fairytale elements add a haunting atmosphere, enriching the romance without overwhelming it.

The ending feels abrupt, which was disappointing because the story was building toward something unforgettable. It prevents the book from earning a full five stars, but 'Cursed Queen' is still a compelling and emotionally rich continuation that leaves a lasting impression.

Queen in Power | Established Relationship | Dark Romance | Royal Politics | Power Couple | Political Marriage | Trust Issues | Emotional Conflict | Loyalty vs Betrayal | Inner Struggle | Strong but Vulnerable Female Lead | Consequences of Power | Slow Emotional Burn

[Andreea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Cursed King by Julie Saman so much that I eagerly waited for the release of Cursed Queen. I instantly fell in love with the author’s writing, which is able to convey so much emotion. And I highlighted so many quotes!

“This love is not a normal love. It’s a love that goes beyond this lifetime. It’s a love that never dies, but that doesn’t mean I want to go the rest of this life without you only to hope I find you again in the next”

After the ending of the first volume, which closed a chapter in the characters’ lives, I truly wondered where the story would go next. This time, I didn’t have many theories, which is why I wasn’t expecting certain plot twists.

“She is my home. My heart. My essence.”

I loved Sebastian even more in this volume, he became my favorite character. A husband, father, brother and king who is easy to admire. The unconditional support he gives Bellamy is incredibly touching, especially when he himself isn’t at his best. He knows how to restrain his instincts when Bellamy needs him. And my heart broke for her. I also loved how the atmosphere feels different from the first volume, heavier, more intense. I appreciated that sensitive topics are addressed as well, such as grief, highlighting things that can help during moments like these.

It came as no surprise that the royal children constantly put a smile on my face. I loved that they are often mentioned and not forgotten somewhere in the background. I also really liked Rowan, who stands by his family and warmly welcomes Bellamy into it.

★★★★☆

Thanks @valentine_pr_ for the ARC of this book!

[Sienasummerrreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diving straight into this review please note you need to read book one before starting this, so be mindful of this review. Starting with the audiobook. Desiree and Sean are brilliant and always such a joy to listen to. They fit the characters perfectly, and this is absolutely worth picking up in audio format.

I loved Bellamy as the FMC and really enjoyed seeing her pregnancy journey play out. I’m a sucker for pregnancy romances, and this delivered. I appreciated that she stood her ground and didn’t fold to Sebastian during the more challenging moments. I actually liked that they clashed in this book and that Sebastian had to learn the hard way after making the wrong decision.

From the moment the nanny was introduced, I knew something was off and was definitely suspicious. My heart hurt for Bellamy, especially with her risky pregnancy and the added stress of Sebastian pulling away and putting up walls between them. I also loved seeing the kids again they’re so cute, and I’m really glad everything worked out in the end.

I always enjoy reading Julie’s work so looking forward to the next one.

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 11hrs 2mins
Narrators: Desiree Ketchum and Sean Masters - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️.5
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book Two In The Once Upon Ever After Series
Tropes or Themes: Retelling (Beauty and The Beast), Nanny, Single Dad, Opposites Attract, Pregnancy, Medical Content, PTSD, Death Of A Parent, Kidnapping, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk, Oral Play, Begging, Toys, Toys As Teammates, Impact Play, Backdoor Play, Mirror Scene and Shower Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
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[Amy Bergesen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Whew! Cursed Queen was a roller coaster. I can’t say that I enjoyed it as much as Cursed King, but I can definitely say I’m tired of hearing about the family curse. Bellamy and Sebastian have their marriage tested by death, kidnapping, and an infernal lack of communication. HEA, 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

The follow-up to Cursed King, this book is a direct continuation to Sebastian and Bellamy’s story, and it’s a romantic, steamy and emotional journey as the king and the nanny embark on their new life together.

I loved the first book in this series and was completely swept up in King Sebastian and American Bellamy’s whirlwind romance as she cared for his three children. Despite their differences and their age gap, they fell hard, fast, and completely. They were fully committed to a future together when danger struck, leaving us hanging on that brutal cliffhanger.

Now, they’re getting married, having babies, and learning how to be a family, and their love for each other—and for the children—absolutely shines.

“She is my home. My heart. My essence.”

But when tragedy comes for them again, there is a struggle to deal with the grief, and Sebastian battles to cope with what he believes is a curse upon his family.

Their relationship is tested in the most devastating ways, and for a couple so deeply in love, seeing them struggle hurt so bad. The commitment is always there, there’s never any doubt that they’ll figure it out, but the journey is emotional and devastating for both of them. Sebastian and Bellamy show incredible strength —not just in how they support each other, but in how they stand up to one another when it counts, and the character growth is fantastic. I especially loved seeing Bellamy step so firmly into her role as queen, wife, and mother.

The love story is the heart of this book, and while the sexy time is super steamy and intense, it’s the soul-deep emotional connection that drives the story. These two are so beautiful together!

She’s healing me. Her love makes me strong. Powerful.
I nearly lost her.
I nearly lost all of this.
But now she’s mine. And nothing will ever keep us apart again.

Alongside the romance, Sebastian and his brother Rowan are still searching to uncover secrets from their family’s past, and I’m sure that will continue to play out over the coming books.

This is a gorgeous romance with fantastic characters, and a great set-up for the rest of the series. The fairytale tie-in is fun and clever, and I loved this story.

4 stars.

Like the first book, the audiobook is narrated by Sean Masters and Desiree Ketchum, and they do a great job. This is definitely a good one to listen to.

[Kali Jean · Rating 2 out of 5]

First of all I love this author and I really liked the first book in this duet but were it not for those 2 things I think this would have been a DNF for me… all the banter and sass from the first seemed gone and the romance felt a bit forced like it was being described how he loved her way too much … the twists/turns didn’t really make sense to me and then the way it ended with another kinda cliffhanger after being dragged through to that point plus Bellamy getting insecure and the King letting the nanny act a fool just really didn’t sit with me or make sense with the characters …

[Kelly Drudy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me just say I am not always a fan of fairy tale retellings (I don't like to mess with the original lol), but Julie has knocked it out of the park with this story. This duet has all the feels, it pulled me in and I could not stop reading. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.

[The Romantic Rush Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cursed Queen feels like a modern fairytale wrapped in danger, devotion, and desire. Julie Saman takes Bellamy and Sebastian’s story to its breaking point and lets love be the thing that carries them through. Their journey is painful, passionate, and hard won, filled with stakes and sacrifice, and the kind of chemistry that never fades. I'm loving this new side of J. Saman.

This second book picks up immediately after the chaos of Cursed King. Sebastian survives the attack that nearly killed him, but the experience leaves deep cracks in his confidence. The curse tied to his family begins to feel unavoidable, and with Bellamy pregnant and the stakes higher than ever, fear takes hold. Misfortune follows them at every turn, and Sebastian starts to believe that loving him might be the most dangerous thing Bellamy could do. Bellamy, already under intense scrutiny as an American nanny turned queen, is pushed to her limits as grief, palace politics, and family secrets close in around her.

The tone here is noticeably emotionally darker than the first book. Themes of loss, mental health, and guilt are front and center, and even Bellamy’s usually hopeful nature starts to falter under the weight of everything she is carrying. Watching her struggle, then slowly reclaim her strength, was one of the most emotional resonant parts of the story. Sebastian, meanwhile, is drowning in responsibility and self blame. The crown already felt heavy, but now he is terrified of failing the people he loves most. And most of all, failing Bellamy. Their bond is tested in painful ways, yet it never stops feeling real or deeply rooted. It continues to blossom, even with splinters under the pressure.

Despite the added darkness, the romance remains tender and gripping. Bellamy and Sebastian are married now, and their relationship shifts into something deeper and more complicated. Their chemistry is still electric, and the heat is turned up in that J. Saman way. The power dynamics, the tension, and Sebastian’s commanding make it oh so delicious, especially when they clash instead of falling neatly into harmony.

I loved seeing Bellamy fully step into her role with the children. Phaedra, Sabrina, and Zayer continue to steal every scene they appear in, even though I wished they had more page time. Their bond with Bellamy feels so genuine and sweet, and those softer moments help balance the heavier themes. Bellamy’s relationship with her father, who is living with dementia, is handled with quiet heartbreak and tenderness and adds another layer of emotional impact. I loved the juxtaposition of that too.

There are also lingering mysteries woven throughout, including questions about Sebastian and Rowan’s missing sister and the presence of the new nanny, who immediately raises suspicion. These threads bring tension and intrigue, though a few plot points felt slightly unresolved by the end, though that may come to play in the next book. The conclusion itself comes a bit quickly, especially given how much the story builds emotionally, but it still delivers a satisfying end to Bellamy and Sebastian’s arc.

As for the audiobook, the dual narration was great, featuring two of my favorite narrators. Desiree Ketchum shines, also so great in the emotional moments. Sean Masters brings his usual deliciousness, even if the accent wasn't perfectly consistent. honestly, I don't even care- I could listen to this man narrate the dictionary. Overall, super enjoyable listening experience.

Cursed Queen leans into pain, healing, mistrust, and forgiveness while never losing sight of hope. It is spicy, dramatic, and emotionally charged, with fairytale elements that deepen the atmosphere without overwhelming the romance aspects. A solid and emotional conclusion to their duet, and I'm excited to continue exploring this world, especially Rowan’s story next.

[Giulia · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This woman. This f***ing woman was made for me. The queen of my heart, body, and soul. The one who does not cower in fear at my darkness but seeks it, revels in it."

⭐️4

Cursed Queen is a contemporary Beauty and the Beast retelling and the second book in the series, picking up right where Cursed King left off. Like its predecessor, it’s (more) spicy, emotionally charged, packed with twists and suspense, and ultimately delivers a satisfying conclusion. I really loved how the story continues to weave in fairytale elements while introducing fresh, compelling ones that deepen the plot.

Sebastian and Bellamy remain strong, engaging characters as they navigate change, loss, grief, and trauma—always striving to support one another. And honestly… find a man who loves you enough to tear down his own family library just to build you one filled with your favorite books. 🖤
The spice is turned up in this installment, pushing into new themes and boundaries in a way that fits the story well.

Special mention to the children, who continue to be a wonderful addition, and to the newest family member, Arthur!

Sebastian’s brother Rowan once again stands out as a side character—charming, intriguing, and someone I’m very excited to read more about in the next book, Midnight Prince.

Thank you to Valentine PR for the advanced e-copy.

[Amanda - leftamongthepages · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
⭐️ 3.5–4/5
📅 January 26, 2026

❤️ Age Gap
❤️ Grumpy / Sunshine
❤️ Royalty
❤️ Single Dad (King) / Nanny
❤️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Found Family

Sebastian and Bellamy finally get their soft, happy moments, married, building a family, pregnant with twins, kids thriving and I should’ve known better than to trust it. Peace in this series never lasts. 😂 I’m a huge fan of this Julie’s writing, so I was really excited to return to this world 🫶🏻

The best parts of this book were the quiet, emotional moments. Sebastian being gentle with Bellamy while she’s grieving? Loved. Him redoing the entire library just for her? Completely unrealistic in real life, perfect in fiction. And the kids calling her “Mama” and “Mommy”? Immediate tears. 😭 The family dynamics in this story is still the strongest part for me.

Now… Sebastian. Sir. You absolutely spent time on my shit list. Watching Bellamy feel alone and unsupported was frustrating, especially when all she does is show up and love this family. I also preferred the pacing of Cursed King and felt like a few things were left unanswered but I’m assuming (and hoping) those get picked up in Rowan’s book which I’m excited to get to read next!

Overall, Cursed Queen is emotional, heavy, and higher stakes than book one. I didn’t love it quite as much as Cursed King, but I’m still invested in this world and these characters and yes, I will be reading Rowan’s book the second it’s available ☺️😍

[Jenifer Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are back with Sebastian and Bellamy! After the ending of the last book, I was eagerly awaiting this next installment, and I will say I truly loved seeing Bellamy become more of a mother to Sebastian's kids rather than just a nanny/his new girlfriend. We did get moments of more happiness and just joy between our new family, but with everything, that doesn't last forever. There were so many secrets and family members who didn't want them together to begin with threatening to tear them apart, but I truly loved how Bellamy, Sebastian and the kids were a true family. They completed each other so very well, and I am so glad they found each other.

I will say some things happened that I thought were a bit rushed or just didn't make a lot of sense, and then at times it all felt overwhelming-- though to be fair, that could just be the amount of flu medicine i am still on. Overall I liked the first book in the series a lot more, but I still had fun reading this one, and I am really excited to see where the series takes us!

**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **

[Katie Thayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed King
(Cursed King and Cursed Queen Combined)
By Julie Saman

He helps set the laws. That should be a law. The king shall not turn his nanny on. Or melt like a popsicle when he sees his kids, because that does wild and wacky things to my ovaries every damn time.

She’s magic. It’s as if she was brought to us. That my daughters were meant to find her.

I want him to break me and then I want to crawl to him for more.

I am blown away!!! This story is a perfect take on retelling Beauty and The Beast! I am absolutely obsessed with Bellamy and Sebastian! I was sucked in the entire time and couldn’t get enough. Their story has twists, turns, suspense, a curse and so Bellamy and Sebastian are so freaking hot! I am speechless! Maybe my favorite read this year so far! Please read it now! You will love it!

Tropes:
Romantic Suspense
Widowed King
Enemies to Lovers
Single Dad x Nanny
Beautiful and the Beast Retelling

Spice Starts at: 24%

Spice: 4/4
Stars: 5/5 ♾️

Available on Kindle Unlimited

[Kate Deeds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: 9/10
Spice: 4/5
Spice Hierarchy: Smut
Narration: 5/5, dual

ALC/ARC Review-Releases 1/26

This Beauty and the Beast retelling I found to be really unique. Cursed King follows the storyline and elements from our classic Disney story. Cursed Queen is what happens after the curse is lifted. It brings to question if a curse ever really goes away or does it shift its focus?

What else could these two go through? Well, turns out, a lot more. There are joyous moments for Bellamy and Sebastian yet every step forward something new is there to wreck them with chaos. Since these two are an established couple, this half of the duet felt very much like a marriage in crisis, which I gobble up every single time.

The connection between Bellamy and Sebastian has been tested and continues to be tested. Let me tell ya-they have found ways to make sure their love stays strong 😜🥵They are drawn to eachother in such a profound way.

I didn’t even realize it was dual style narration until about halfway through. If I had really thought about it, I am sure I could have noticed. But Sean Masters and Desiree Ketchum were both able to go from one character's voice to the other so seamlessly while doing an accent for one and not the other. I truly feel this led to the masterpiece that was their storytelling for this.

[Ashtyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

*arc review*
3/⭐️
2/🌶️

The first book pulled me in and I loved Bellamy and how she was with the kids. I loved Sebastian and how he had this aura of dominance and confidence. He loved who he loved, but kept up walls.

However I just couldn’t seem to find a groove with this story. Which is unfortunate cause I love Julie’s writing and storytelling.

I missed the kids and the tension of falling in love. I was hoping for more character development from Bellamy, but I just didn’t feel it. I felt the emotional moments and heartbreaking times. I know the love was there with the characters- i still felt like I was at a stalemate within the story.

[Jemma Newby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What a rollercoaster ride that was. It was action-packed and filled with plenty of twists. My heart broke for Bellamy and I just wanted to give her a big hug. Once again I was completely hooked on with the beastly King , his Belle and the little Princesses and Prince. I can't wait for Rowans book with the little hints we've been getting throughout this duet. Loved , loved , loved this duet and it was the perfect start to a fantastic universe that I can't wait for more of.

[KatReadsRomance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmmmm… I’m glad I held back.

I can’t believe I’m saying this about one of my favourite authors, Julie Saman, but I’m disappointed in this series.

First of all, it’s not her fault that I don’t generally enjoy suspense romance. But there was just so much of it… and it’s not over yet. Too many things that happened to try to break them sorry. It seems unbelievable that Sebastian believes in the curse and would pull away as much as he did.

I will read Rowan’s book, but it feels like there’s just going to be more of the same. Hopefully it will be more believable.

[lucialeelibros · Rating 4 out of 5]

loved. fuck You Charlotte.

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The continuation of Sebastian’s and Bellamy’s story is one of the hottest and jaw dropping reads. Julie is definitely pushing boundaries with this duet and I am here for every word.

Buckle up because this book is packed with stunning twists, heart wrenching turns but all of it filled with love! Sebastian and Bellamy’s story is one of the best Beauty and Beast adaptation. Julie wrote such an intriguing duet that had me hooked through it all!

[Jesmin Nawaz · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is a good example of why I don't like duet books. We could have done with a longer book as the first instead of a whole second book. The good thing about the book was the kiddos and the spice. Aside from that, there is little movement in the over all plot and that could have been an extended epilogue or maybe incorporated into Rowan's book. This book had me at odds with Sebastian. You're telling me that the grumpy, asshole of a king, suddenly is all talkative and friendly with the new nanny, letting her touch him and enter his private space to have a night cap. Plus, lets not forget how he basically discarded his pregnant wife's concerns for said nanny. He fell from grace when all this drama was utterly unnecessary.

[Okayish Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC Review 🎧
Narrated by Sean Masters + Desireé Ketchum

Eep!! So excited I was able to get an ALC of the Cursed Queen. I truly enjoyed Cursed King!

After the first book, I was curious who might be the villain in the second book. And my goodness.... without spoiling anything, Sebastian's mother is just full of secrets!! I feel like the curse was just Sebastian's mother making poor choices and everyone just suffering because of it and maybe that's why they felt like they were cursed!

And now that Bellamy and Sebastian are officially officially together in this book, their relationship definitely gets tested. You may want to throw a book at Sebastian's face because he's so stubborn and frustrating at times. But he will redeem himself at the end.

This book had all the things in making a great story. There's drama, there's twists, there's lots of secrets, and of course some spicy scenes!!

Desireé Ketchum and Sean Masters are autobuy narrators for me. I truly enjoyed their performances in this book! I think they did a wonderful job bringing these characters and the side characters to life.

Thank you Julie Saman and Valentine PR for this ALC in exchange for my honest review!

[Chantal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay what was this? This book couldn’t decide what it wanted. What drama it wanted. But I read past it. Only to come to a fast conclusion? You mean to tell me that she said she didn’t trust the new nanny for him not to believe her? Then for the new nanny to kidnap her? Then he realizes he’s wrong and then they rescue her BUT THEN all he says is sorry and they sleep together? Then the book finished? WTH was that??? What lazy writing was that?

[Laura Fabian · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review

I LOVED that Julie Saman didn't make me wait so long to return to Messalina because I was dying to read about Sebastian & Bellamy again and the end of their love story. And I have to say, the author exceeded my expectations with the intrigue of the plot, the beautiful moments of this family, and those glimpses of the next book in the series that have me so excited.

Bellamy broke my heart a little more in this book, especially because her journey is a real rollercoaster, from discovering her pregnancy, to the growth of her bond and love for Phaedra, Sabrina & Zayer, and how everything in her life changes so tragically and heartbreakingly. But I was also very moved to hear how Sebastian, Rowan, and the rest of the palace inhabitants are there for her when she needs them most. I also loved reading about her being so strong and brave, facing the challenges of her new life as queen and standing up to those who try to intimidate her.

Sebastian made me love him even more in this book: I loved hearing him so deeply in love with Bellamy, finally happy in his life and enjoying every free moment with his children and Bellamy, I also loved Arthur's arrival in this family's life, testing Sebastian's patience but also providing some of the funniest moments with this character. I enjoyed learning more about his family's curse, the tragedies he and Rowan experienced from a young age, and how they both fought to finally uncover the truth.

🎧Audiobook Review🎧

This pair of narrators captivated me in Cursed King, and it was amazing to hear them again as Sebastian & Bellamy!

Especially because I think Desiree Ketchum outdid herself in this book. Her portrayal of Bellamy was beautiful, truly heartbreaking in the character's saddest moments, and extremely entertaining and funny when Bellamy showed his bravest side.

It's always a pleasure to listen to Sean Masters, and hearing him as a happy Sebastian, content with his life and enjoying his family, was something I loved because this narrator brought to life this grumpy man who melts with love for the woman he loves and his children

🥀Bellamy: 5/5
🥀Sebastian: 4.5/5
🥀Plot: 5/5
🥀Love story: 5/5
🥀Secondary characters: 5/5
🥀Universe: 5/5
🥀Cover: 5/5
🥵: 1/5

ALC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta

AMÉ que Julie Saman no me hiciera esperar tanto para volver a Messalina porque me moría de ganas de leer a Sebastian & Bellamy otra vez y el final de su historia de amor. Y tengo que decir que la autora superó mis expectativas con la intriga de la trama, los hermosos momentos de esta familia y esos vistazos al siguiente libro en la serie que me tienen muy emocionada.

Bellamy me rompió el corazón un poco más en este libro, especialmente porque su viaje es una verdadera montaña rusa desde el descubrimiento de su embarazo, el crecimiento de su vínculo y amor por Phaedra, Sabrina & Zayer, y como todo en su vida cambia de forma tan trágica y desgarradora, pero también me conmovió mucho escuchar la manera en la que Sebastian, Rowan y el resto de los habitantes del palacio están ahí para ella cuando más lo necesita. También me encantó leerla tan fuerte y valiente, enfrentando las dificultades de su nueva vida como reyna y poniéndole un alto a las personas que tratan de intimidarla.

Sebastian me enamoró muchísimo más: me encantó escucharlo perdidamente enamorado de Bellamy, siendo feliz en su vida por fin y disfrutando de cada momento libre con sus hijos y Bellamy, además, me encantó que Arthur llegara a la vida de esta familia para poner a prueba la paciencia de Sebastian, pero también para darme los momentos más divertidos de este personaje. También disfruté mucho conociendo más de la maldición de su familia, de las tragedias que él y Rowan vivieron desde muy jóvenes y como ambos luchando por finalmente descubrir la verdad.

🎧Reseña del audiolibro🎧

Este par de narradores me cautivó en Cursed King, ¡y fue increíble volver a escucharlos como Sebastian y Bellamy!

Sobre todo porque creo que Desiree Ketchum se superó a sí misma en este libro. Su interpretación de Bellamy fue hermosa, realmente desgarradora en los momentos más tristes del personaje, y extremadamente entretenida y divertida cuando Bellamy mostró su lado más valiente.

Siempre es un placer escuchar a Sean Masters, y escucharlo como un Sebastian feliz, contento con su vida y disfrutando de su familia, fue algo que me encantó porque este narrador dio vida a este hombre gruñón que se derrite de amor por la mujer que ama y sus hijos.

🥀Bellamy: 5/5
🥀Sebastian: 4.5/5
🥀Trama: 5/5
🥀Historia de amor: 5/5
🥀Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🥀Universo: 5/5
🥀Portada: 5/5
🥵: 1/5

[Bree McNamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5 Stars

After being completely hooked by Cursed King, I was dying to see what would happen next for Bellamy and Sebastian in Cursed Queen. I’m a huge fan of Beauty and the Beast retellings when they manage to feel fresh, and Julie Saman absolutely delivered. Getting the chance to read this while I was in a reading slump honestly felt like the highlight that pulled me right back into books.

This second half of the duet picks up right after the chaos of the first book and shows what happens after the curse is supposedly broken. But the story raises a really interesting question: does a curse ever truly end, or does it just find new ways to haunt the people involved?

Bellamy and Sebastian are already married and trying to build a life together with the children, but peace never seems to come easily for them. Bellamy doesn’t believe the curse is real, while Sebastian and his family have lived through so much tragedy that they can’t ignore it. Watching that difference in belief create tension in their marriage was honestly hard at times because I just wanted them to finally get their happily-ever-after. Instead, their relationship is tested again and again in ways that feel messy, emotional, and very real.

Sebastian continues to be such a compelling character. He’s dominant, commanding, and completely devoted to Bellamy. He has that intense “you know exactly who’s in charge” energy, but he’s also incredibly soft where she’s concerned. The way he loves her is powerful and all-consuming.

“She is my home. My heart. My essence.”

Their chemistry is just as strong as ever too. The passion between them never fades, and their connection feels magnetic even when they’re struggling.

Bellamy was the emotional center of the book for me. She carries so much—grief, pressure as a new queen, her complicated relationship with her father, and the challenges of growing their family. Some of the scenes involving her vulnerability were honestly heartbreaking, and I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug her. At the same time, her strength and compassion really shine, especially in the way she loves Sebastian’s children. Their bond with her is one of the most beautiful parts of the story.

“He makes me feel safe. He makes me feel loved. He makes me feel worshipped and somehow always seems to know what I need, oftentimes even before I do.”

The story is packed with drama, mystery, and emotional twists. Between family secrets, palace tensions, and a very suspicious new nanny (Charlotte… wow 😅), there’s always something threatening their fragile happiness. It kept me turning pages because every time things seemed to settle, another challenge appeared.

I also loved the darker, more mature tone of this book. While the first story leaned more into the fairytale setup, this one explores what happens when real life, grief, and responsibility hit after the happily-ever-after. It felt like a marriage-in-crisis story wrapped in a royal fairytale, and that emotional depth made the ending hit even harder. And of course, Sebastian still delivers some unforgettable moments.

“This woman. This f***ing woman was made for me. The queen of my heart, body, and soul. The one who does not cower in fear at my darkness but seeks it, revels in it.”

“I need my thoughts to stop. I need my mind to shut off. I want you to make it so that I can’t think. I want you to control not only my body but my mind. Can you do that? Can you make it so that all I know, think, or feel is you?”

Overall, Cursed Queen was a dramatic, emotional, and steamy conclusion to Sebastian and Bellamy’s story. It’s filled with love, heartbreak, chaos, and devotion, and it left me excited to see where the rest of this world goes next—especially with the hints we get about Rowan’s future story.

If you love dark romance, royal drama, found family, and unique fairytale retellings, this duet is definitely worth the read. Just make sure you start with Cursed King first. I’m already looking forward to seeing what Julie Saman does next in this universe.

[Book Lover IRL · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Cursed Queen by J. Saman is book two of the Once Upon Ever After duet. (You must read book one, Cursed King, prior to reading Cursed Queen to follow the storyline.) It is a dramatic retelling of the Beauty and the Beast fairytale set in modern times and packed full of emotion, royal chaos, danger, jealousy, intrigue and k!nky f*ckery.

The Cursed Queen picks up where book one left off. Sebastian and Bellamy are dealing with the aftermath of the violent ending from book one as they adjust to becoming a blended family. Sebastian is still a domineering alpha grump who puts his family's safety first, as he struggles with hoping their "curse" has been lifted. Bellamy works hard to acclimate to her new roles of stepmom to three young children and queen of a small nation, while discovering she is unexpectedly pregnant. The couple struggles to harmonize Seb's need for control and desire for courtly decorum with Bellamy's laidback "American" personality that refuses to be turned into a stiff, overly formal royal. They deal with the epic stresses of day to day life and these growing pains to eventually come out the other side stronger. Book two also brought a stronger emotional connection between Seb and Bellamy that I very much enjoyed, as well as LOTS of sp!ce. (((Did I mention the multitude of sm*tty scenes?!)))

There was increased suspense as the MCs navigated family secrets and were forced to reshape their expectations. The mystery surrounding the kidnapping of Desta as a baby and the dowager queen's unhinged admission brought lots of complications and twists. I was astonished and scandalized by the depth of her betrayal. Then Charlotte, as the new nanny, brings her own set of cryptic inexplicable behaviors / issues to the castle. All of which leads to an intense hostage situation. (I don't want to accidentally give anything away so I won't comment more.) There was so much loss and big feelings, coupled with mistakes and eventually redemption.

Sadly the reveal fell a teensy short since it seemed to be resolved too quickly. However, Rowan stepped up nicely and proved that he could be more than just a spoiled playboy prince. This set the stage well for Saman to hopefully go into Rowan's story next.

Desiree Ketchum and Sean Masters continued their amazing voice acting skills in this novel with dual narration. I thoroughly enjoyed both narrators' ability to bring their characters to life through expressive, empathetic, and relatable performances. I think Ketchum and Masters were wonderful choices for this duet series.

Bonus: Arthur the ferret brings comedic relief from the cloak and dagger tension of the rest of the story.

Favorite quote: "This woman. This f***ing woman was made for me. The queen of my heart, body, and soul. The one who does not cower in fear at my darkness but seeks it, revels in it."

Overall, I really enjoyed the Cursed Queen by J. Saman. It was a dramatic and captivating end to the book duet but left us with enough curious thoughts to leave us hoping that Rowan's journey to HEA is next.

A huge thank you to J. Saman and Valentine PR for the advanced listener copy (ALC). All opinions are my own.

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
POV: 1st person, alternating
Narration: Dual
HEA: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
Tropes: contemporary retelling of Beauty & the Beast, grumpy x sunshine, age gap, single dad x nanny, romantic suspense, royalty
Standalone/Series: Duet, book 2 of 2

INSTAGRAM: @Book.Lover.IRL
STORYGRAPH: @Book_Lover_IRL
GOODREADS: Book Lover IRL
FABLE: Book Lover IRL
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really liked this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️ I liked this book
⭐️⭐️ Meh… bored or annoyed
⭐️ Seriously? Not worth it

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ INFERNO. P@nty melting
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Blazing h0t
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Now we’re talking
🌶️🌶️ Meh… uninspired missionary
🌶️ Does weak f0replay count?