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The Cursed One
She was never meant to be seen.
Bound to a forgotten prophecy, Lyrianna Cavendish has spent her life hiding the power that could save the world… or destroy it.
But when the Trial of Powers exposes her secret, everything changes.
Thrown into the deadly ranks of the Chosen, Lyrianna is surrounded by enemies who fear her, rulers who want to control her, and a kingdom on the brink of collapse.
And then there’s Arès, a ruthless commander sworn to stand against everything she is.
He should hate her.
He tries to hate her.
But the more her power grows… the more he’s drawn to her.
As the Wall begins to crack and Chaos seeps into the world, Lyrianna’s magic evolves into something no one can understand, and no one can stop.
Hunted, feared, and torn between duty and desire, she must uncover the truth about what she’s becoming…
Before Chaos claims her completely
Bound to a forgotten prophecy, Lyrianna Cavendish has spent her life hiding the power that could save the world… or destroy it.
But when the Trial of Powers exposes her secret, everything changes.
Thrown into the deadly ranks of the Chosen, Lyrianna is surrounded by enemies who fear her, rulers who want to control her, and a kingdom on the brink of collapse.
And then there’s Arès, a ruthless commander sworn to stand against everything she is.
He should hate her.
He tries to hate her.
But the more her power grows… the more he’s drawn to her.
As the Wall begins to crack and Chaos seeps into the world, Lyrianna’s magic evolves into something no one can understand, and no one can stop.
Hunted, feared, and torn between duty and desire, she must uncover the truth about what she’s becoming…
Before Chaos claims her completely
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 18, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
October 20, 2025
The Cursed One by Monika Guss honestly blew me away. It’s got that perfect mix of fantasy, romance, and deeper themes that really pull you in. What I loved the most is that it’s not just one single plot, you can feel several storylines slowly weaving together, like there’s something bigger going on behind it all. It gives the book so much depth, way more than most fantasy romances I’ve read lately.
Also (and I won’t spoil anything, promise), the way the FMC and MMC are written — how they mirror and contrast each other — just hit different. Their dynamic felt real and full of tension, and I kept thinking about them even after finishing.
And that ending??? That cliffhanger???
Now the only thing I want is book two in my hands, like, yesterday.
Also (and I won’t spoil anything, promise), the way the FMC and MMC are written — how they mirror and contrast each other — just hit different. Their dynamic felt real and full of tension, and I kept thinking about them even after finishing.
And that ending??? That cliffhanger???
Now the only thing I want is book two in my hands, like, yesterday.
June 23, 2026
4.5 stars.
When Monika Guss reached out and asked if I'd be interested in reading her book, she described it as a romantasy with enemies-to-lovers, dangerous magic, and a morally conflicted heroine.
Safe to say, she had my attention immediately.
And honestly? This book deserves so much more attention than it's getting.
I'd never even heard of it before, and that genuinely surprised me after finishing it.
The worldbuilding is one of the book's biggest strengths. It's detailed, unique, and thoughtfully crafted, which means the beginning takes its time introducing the world instead of jumping straight into the romance. If you're expecting a typical romantasy opening, this one is a little different, but in the best way. Once everything is established, the story really takes off.
And when the MMC finally appears... that's when the romantasy vibes truly begin.
There's tension, yearning, training together, forced proximity, shared secrets, and plenty of chemistry. I'd personally call it more dislike-to-lovers than true enemies-to-lovers, but I honestly didn't mind that at all.
The FMC was probably my favorite part of the story. She carries the weight of a painful past, constantly battles her own self-doubt, and feels responsible for the fate of an entire people. Her emotions felt real, and I found it incredibly easy to understand and root for her.
As for the MMC... he's morally grey, protective, a little possessive, and exactly the kind of character many romantasy readers fall for.
The side characters deserve a mention too: they added so much warmth and depth to the story, and I grew attached to them surprisingly quickly.
The only reason this wasn't a full five-star read for me is because I'm an absolute sucker for slow burn. I would have loved the romance to develop a little more slowly. But that's purely a matter of personal preference and didn't take away from how much I enjoyed the story.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable romantasy, and I'm already looking forward to reading the sequel.
When Monika Guss reached out and asked if I'd be interested in reading her book, she described it as a romantasy with enemies-to-lovers, dangerous magic, and a morally conflicted heroine.
Safe to say, she had my attention immediately.
And honestly? This book deserves so much more attention than it's getting.
I'd never even heard of it before, and that genuinely surprised me after finishing it.
The worldbuilding is one of the book's biggest strengths. It's detailed, unique, and thoughtfully crafted, which means the beginning takes its time introducing the world instead of jumping straight into the romance. If you're expecting a typical romantasy opening, this one is a little different, but in the best way. Once everything is established, the story really takes off.
And when the MMC finally appears... that's when the romantasy vibes truly begin.
There's tension, yearning, training together, forced proximity, shared secrets, and plenty of chemistry. I'd personally call it more dislike-to-lovers than true enemies-to-lovers, but I honestly didn't mind that at all.
The FMC was probably my favorite part of the story. She carries the weight of a painful past, constantly battles her own self-doubt, and feels responsible for the fate of an entire people. Her emotions felt real, and I found it incredibly easy to understand and root for her.
As for the MMC... he's morally grey, protective, a little possessive, and exactly the kind of character many romantasy readers fall for.
The side characters deserve a mention too: they added so much warmth and depth to the story, and I grew attached to them surprisingly quickly.
The only reason this wasn't a full five-star read for me is because I'm an absolute sucker for slow burn. I would have loved the romance to develop a little more slowly. But that's purely a matter of personal preference and didn't take away from how much I enjoyed the story.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable romantasy, and I'm already looking forward to reading the sequel.
April 16, 2026
Rating: ★★★★.5 (4.5 Stars)
The characters in the narrative are exceptionally well-developed, entertaining, and at times, hilariously funny, while also being deeply relatable. They are portrayed as chosen warriors, each with their own unique struggles and triumphs.
Lyrianna, affectionately known as Lyna, stands out as a remarkable female character who embodies a fascinating blend of badassery and vulnerability. Her journey illustrates the harsh realities of being born into a destined prophecy, a burden that comes with being a chosen one. Lyna is not just a beautiful character; she is a beautifully flawed individual who resonates with readers through her experiences with anxiety, fear, and the emotional turmoil surrounding her burgeoning powers. As she grapples with the chaotic forces threatening to destroy her world, her quest for truth and understanding becomes a compelling narrative thread, inviting readers to connect with her on a profound level.
Ares, another pivotal character in the story, is equally compelling in his own right. He is depicted as a fierce, take-no-crap commander who harbors his own secrets and complexities. His character duality adds layers of intrigue that will surprise and entice readers, making them want to keep him close as they delve deeper into the story. Ares is not only hardworking and fierce; he possesses a clear sense of purpose and is unyielding in his determination. He refuses to be bossed around by those in power and is fiercely protective of those he cares about, showcasing a loyalty that is both admirable and relatable. His method of navigating the chaos around him with care and intelligence makes him a character that readers will want on their side when facing the encroaching darkness of chaos.
The supporting characters play a crucial role in enriching the narrative. They are, for the most part, well-developed and contribute a delightful mix of humor, mystery, intrigue, and chaos to the overall story. The camaraderie among the group of friends surrounding Ares and Lyna adds depth to the novel and significantly enhances the character development of the two leads. Their interactions bring lightness to the heavier themes, providing a balanced reading experience that keeps the audience engaged.
The settings within the story are vividly described, creating an immersive and realistic backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the magic that thrives within them. The writing style is entertaining and, while it may have its flaws, it remains realistic and engaging. The narrative is filled with tension and emotion that aligns perfectly with the unfolding events, allowing readers to truly feel the characters' emotions as they experience them.
The plot itself is a whirlwind of entertainment, action-packed sequences, adventurous escapades, and layers of mystery and chaos. Readers should be prepared for unexpected plot twists that will leave them yearning for the next installment, as well as lingering questions that will resonate long after the final page is turned.
The romance that develops between Ares and Lyna is handled with care, evolving at a pace that feels natural and fitting for both characters. This development not only strengthens their individual arcs but also enhances their connection as a duo, making readers eager to continue their journey even after the story concludes.
Throughout the narrative, there are valuable lessons woven into the fabric of the story. It explores the ups and downs of being a chosen one, emphasizing that while destiny may be influenced by others, it ultimately lies in our hands to shape our own realities. Themes of friendship, trust, and the complex effects of power—both good and evil—are intricately examined. The story challenges the notion that things are not always as they seem and encourages skepticism regarding the information provided by those in power or long-standing acquaintances. Often, it is those who keep secrets that are most driven to attain their desires.
The only minor critique I had regarding this book was that some setting descriptions tended to be lengthy. Additionally, certain word choices occasionally caused me to pause, momentarily disrupting my immersion in the story. However, these aspects did not significantly detract from my overall enjoyment of the narrative.
"The Cursed One" by Monika Guss is a captivating and action-packed debut novel, marking the beginning of a series that immerses readers in a world brimming with chaos, magic, romance, and much more. It leaves readers on the edge of their seats, eager to dive deeper into the chaos and uncover the mysteries, romances, and adventures that await in this enthralling Chaos Saga. This novel comes highly recommended for fans of enemies-to-lovers romance and those who adore fantasy tales rich with magic and chaos, drawing them into a thrilling narrative that is impossible to resist.
The characters in the narrative are exceptionally well-developed, entertaining, and at times, hilariously funny, while also being deeply relatable. They are portrayed as chosen warriors, each with their own unique struggles and triumphs.
Lyrianna, affectionately known as Lyna, stands out as a remarkable female character who embodies a fascinating blend of badassery and vulnerability. Her journey illustrates the harsh realities of being born into a destined prophecy, a burden that comes with being a chosen one. Lyna is not just a beautiful character; she is a beautifully flawed individual who resonates with readers through her experiences with anxiety, fear, and the emotional turmoil surrounding her burgeoning powers. As she grapples with the chaotic forces threatening to destroy her world, her quest for truth and understanding becomes a compelling narrative thread, inviting readers to connect with her on a profound level.
Ares, another pivotal character in the story, is equally compelling in his own right. He is depicted as a fierce, take-no-crap commander who harbors his own secrets and complexities. His character duality adds layers of intrigue that will surprise and entice readers, making them want to keep him close as they delve deeper into the story. Ares is not only hardworking and fierce; he possesses a clear sense of purpose and is unyielding in his determination. He refuses to be bossed around by those in power and is fiercely protective of those he cares about, showcasing a loyalty that is both admirable and relatable. His method of navigating the chaos around him with care and intelligence makes him a character that readers will want on their side when facing the encroaching darkness of chaos.
The supporting characters play a crucial role in enriching the narrative. They are, for the most part, well-developed and contribute a delightful mix of humor, mystery, intrigue, and chaos to the overall story. The camaraderie among the group of friends surrounding Ares and Lyna adds depth to the novel and significantly enhances the character development of the two leads. Their interactions bring lightness to the heavier themes, providing a balanced reading experience that keeps the audience engaged.
The settings within the story are vividly described, creating an immersive and realistic backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the magic that thrives within them. The writing style is entertaining and, while it may have its flaws, it remains realistic and engaging. The narrative is filled with tension and emotion that aligns perfectly with the unfolding events, allowing readers to truly feel the characters' emotions as they experience them.
The plot itself is a whirlwind of entertainment, action-packed sequences, adventurous escapades, and layers of mystery and chaos. Readers should be prepared for unexpected plot twists that will leave them yearning for the next installment, as well as lingering questions that will resonate long after the final page is turned.
The romance that develops between Ares and Lyna is handled with care, evolving at a pace that feels natural and fitting for both characters. This development not only strengthens their individual arcs but also enhances their connection as a duo, making readers eager to continue their journey even after the story concludes.
Throughout the narrative, there are valuable lessons woven into the fabric of the story. It explores the ups and downs of being a chosen one, emphasizing that while destiny may be influenced by others, it ultimately lies in our hands to shape our own realities. Themes of friendship, trust, and the complex effects of power—both good and evil—are intricately examined. The story challenges the notion that things are not always as they seem and encourages skepticism regarding the information provided by those in power or long-standing acquaintances. Often, it is those who keep secrets that are most driven to attain their desires.
The only minor critique I had regarding this book was that some setting descriptions tended to be lengthy. Additionally, certain word choices occasionally caused me to pause, momentarily disrupting my immersion in the story. However, these aspects did not significantly detract from my overall enjoyment of the narrative.
"The Cursed One" by Monika Guss is a captivating and action-packed debut novel, marking the beginning of a series that immerses readers in a world brimming with chaos, magic, romance, and much more. It leaves readers on the edge of their seats, eager to dive deeper into the chaos and uncover the mysteries, romances, and adventures that await in this enthralling Chaos Saga. This novel comes highly recommended for fans of enemies-to-lovers romance and those who adore fantasy tales rich with magic and chaos, drawing them into a thrilling narrative that is impossible to resist.
June 15, 2026
Lyra's story broke my heart from the very beginning. The losses she endured before this book even starts are devastating, and unlike her peers, she enters this new world completely unprepared. Everyone around her has spent years training, learning, and preparing for what lies ahead, while Lyra is simply trying to survive.
To make matters worse, there is a prophecy hanging over her head, and everyone expects her to be something extraordinary before she's even had a chance to figure out who she is. Watching her navigate those expectations, endure the judgment of others, and slowly come into her own power was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Ares couldn't be more different on the surface. While he understands loss in a way few people can, his upbringing gave him advantages Lyra never had. He was trained. He was respected. He understands his power and how to use it. The contrast between the two of them created such an interesting dynamic because while they share similar pain, they've been shaped by it in completely different ways.
And then there's Ares and Lyra together. What starts as hatred and resistance slowly transforms into something so much deeper. Their relationship is intense, emotional, and impossible to ignore. But what truly stood out were Ares's words. The way he expresses his feelings is absolutely beautiful. There were multiple times I found myself rereading his conversations because they carried so much weight and emotion. Few characters have managed to put their feelings into words the way Ares does.
Bella was another standout for me. Lyra desperately needed someone in her corner, and Bella became exactly that. She helped Lyra understand a world she had been thrown into without preparation, welcomed her into the group, and never made her feel like an outsider. Beyond that, Bella is simply an incredible character in her own right. Strong, loyal, and more than capable of handling herself, she quickly became one of my favorites.
And that ending... Absolutely not. I was not prepared for what happened. The final chapters completely caught me off guard, left me with a thousand questions, and immediately had me needing the next book. It was one of those endings that leaves you staring at the page wondering how you're supposed to wait for answers.
What was between us was mine - sacred in a way nothing else in this damned world was.
To make matters worse, there is a prophecy hanging over her head, and everyone expects her to be something extraordinary before she's even had a chance to figure out who she is. Watching her navigate those expectations, endure the judgment of others, and slowly come into her own power was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Ares couldn't be more different on the surface. While he understands loss in a way few people can, his upbringing gave him advantages Lyra never had. He was trained. He was respected. He understands his power and how to use it. The contrast between the two of them created such an interesting dynamic because while they share similar pain, they've been shaped by it in completely different ways.
And then there's Ares and Lyra together. What starts as hatred and resistance slowly transforms into something so much deeper. Their relationship is intense, emotional, and impossible to ignore. But what truly stood out were Ares's words. The way he expresses his feelings is absolutely beautiful. There were multiple times I found myself rereading his conversations because they carried so much weight and emotion. Few characters have managed to put their feelings into words the way Ares does.
Bella was another standout for me. Lyra desperately needed someone in her corner, and Bella became exactly that. She helped Lyra understand a world she had been thrown into without preparation, welcomed her into the group, and never made her feel like an outsider. Beyond that, Bella is simply an incredible character in her own right. Strong, loyal, and more than capable of handling herself, she quickly became one of my favorites.
And that ending... Absolutely not. I was not prepared for what happened. The final chapters completely caught me off guard, left me with a thousand questions, and immediately had me needing the next book. It was one of those endings that leaves you staring at the page wondering how you're supposed to wait for answers.
What was between us was mine - sacred in a way nothing else in this damned world was.
June 17, 2026
This book gave me strong Harry Potter-style magical world vibes, but with a darker, more romantic twist. From the beginning, Lyrianna’s story pulled me in — growing up with the weight of a prophecy hanging over her future, only for everything she believed her destiny would be to completely unravel after the death of her bonded mate.
I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding her magic and the way she had been raised to ignore and suppress such a huge part of herself. Watching her arrive at Saanctrum and slowly discover who she truly is made the story feel immersive and magical. There’s a real sense of hidden potential and self-discovery throughout that kept me turning the pages.
The enemies-to-lovers element added another layer to the story and I liked the tension and development between the characters. The magical setting and world-building created a lot of atmosphere and made me want to keep exploring alongside Lyrianna.
Unfortunately, the editing did let this book down for me. There were points where errors and lack of polish interrupted the flow and made it harder to fully connect with the story being told. It felt like the ideas and plot had so much potential, but the execution sometimes distracted from what could have been an even stronger reading experience.
My other frustration was the ending — while I enjoyed the journey overall, it finishes on a cliffhanger. I know some readers love being left desperate for the next book, but personally I prefer more closure at the end of a story, so it left me feeling a little unsatisfied.
Overall, this was an imaginative fantasy with prophecy, magic, self-discovery and romance that kept me engaged despite its flaws. If you enjoy magical academies, hidden powers and enemies-to-lovers dynamics, this could still be one worth picking up.
I really enjoyed the mystery surrounding her magic and the way she had been raised to ignore and suppress such a huge part of herself. Watching her arrive at Saanctrum and slowly discover who she truly is made the story feel immersive and magical. There’s a real sense of hidden potential and self-discovery throughout that kept me turning the pages.
The enemies-to-lovers element added another layer to the story and I liked the tension and development between the characters. The magical setting and world-building created a lot of atmosphere and made me want to keep exploring alongside Lyrianna.
Unfortunately, the editing did let this book down for me. There were points where errors and lack of polish interrupted the flow and made it harder to fully connect with the story being told. It felt like the ideas and plot had so much potential, but the execution sometimes distracted from what could have been an even stronger reading experience.
My other frustration was the ending — while I enjoyed the journey overall, it finishes on a cliffhanger. I know some readers love being left desperate for the next book, but personally I prefer more closure at the end of a story, so it left me feeling a little unsatisfied.
Overall, this was an imaginative fantasy with prophecy, magic, self-discovery and romance that kept me engaged despite its flaws. If you enjoy magical academies, hidden powers and enemies-to-lovers dynamics, this could still be one worth picking up.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews