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Killed by True Love's Kiss: A darkly romantic tale where true love's kiss isn't the cure—it's the curse
Can love defy fate—or will it seal her doom once and for all?
Seventeen-year-old Lottie thought she’d escaped her family’s curse when she made it past her birthday alive. No deadly kiss. No tragic romance.
She was wrong.
The curse isn’t broken—it’s waiting.
Now, when a stranger with eyes as warm as copper and a smile as sharp as knives comes for her sister, Lottie’s world unravels. To save her family and uncover the curse’s origin, she’ll have to confront Love himself—and the dangerously alluring man bound to Him.
A man she wants to both kill and kiss.
In a battle between love and death, only one can win.
Comparable to Belladonna and Once Upon a Broken Heart, Lovers of no-spice YA dark fantasy romance with a twist will love this haunting fated lovers tale!
*Gothic Vibes
*God-Like Entities
*Deadly Bargains
*Morally Gray Love Interests
*Mystery and Intrigue
*Slow-Burn Romance
*Enemies to Lovers
*First Book of a Duology
Seventeen-year-old Lottie thought she’d escaped her family’s curse when she made it past her birthday alive. No deadly kiss. No tragic romance.
She was wrong.
The curse isn’t broken—it’s waiting.
Now, when a stranger with eyes as warm as copper and a smile as sharp as knives comes for her sister, Lottie’s world unravels. To save her family and uncover the curse’s origin, she’ll have to confront Love himself—and the dangerously alluring man bound to Him.
A man she wants to both kill and kiss.
In a battle between love and death, only one can win.
Comparable to Belladonna and Once Upon a Broken Heart, Lovers of no-spice YA dark fantasy romance with a twist will love this haunting fated lovers tale!
*Gothic Vibes
*God-Like Entities
*Deadly Bargains
*Morally Gray Love Interests
*Mystery and Intrigue
*Slow-Burn Romance
*Enemies to Lovers
*First Book of a Duology
315 pages, Hardcover
Published October 27, 2025
5 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 27, 2025
I am honestly just blown away by this book. When I saw the chance to read and review it with the Wings & Words community, I did some snooping. The premise alone had me hooked. The art throughout is gorgeous, too. If you have a color e-reader, this is absolutely one to read on it.
I even backed the Kickstarter because I knew I wanted a physical copy… which is always a gamble when you haven’t read the book yet. But I’m so glad I did, because I loved Killed by True Love’s Kiss.
We follow Lottie, a girl desperate to repair her relationship with her younger sister before her sister’s seventeenth birthday. Lottie’s been haunted by a generational curse: one of the girls in their family dies on her seventeenth birthday from true love’s kiss. That belief has stained her family’s reputation, and it’s left her sister resentful and exhausted by Lottie’s fear.
As the birthday creeps closer, Lottie tries to keep the curse to herself. That is, until a group of men starts flocking to her sister, eager to court and marry her. Cue Lottie’s paranoia spiraling. She’s scrambling to find a way to break the curse while trying to keep her already-fragile relationship with her sister intact and trying not to fall for the kissecutioner himself.
Bono balances the conflict, stakes, and mystery so well. I never felt a lull; every scene felt intentional and genuinely interesting. The story is set in a fantasy world with strong Victorian-era England vibes, complete with suffocating propriety and oppression. And the way Bono paints the setting is absolutely vivid. I felt like I was standing in the ballroom with everyone else, watching the tension sharpen scene by scene.
The writing itself is smooth and easy to sink into, with layered symbolism woven through flowers, poems, and color. Having Love as an actual entity adds an extra level of depth to an already rich world, and we meet other entities along the way that only deepen the lore.
The romance had a slow-burn feel, but because while the timeline is fairly short, it works perfectly for the premise and the ticking-clock urgency of it all. I’m not usually a YA person, but I devoured this YA, no-spice, gothic romance like it was made specifically for my little haunted heart.
Bravo to Haley Bono on such a strong debut. This is book one of a duology, and I will absolutely be there for book two.
Thank you to Wings & Words and Haley Bono for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
I even backed the Kickstarter because I knew I wanted a physical copy… which is always a gamble when you haven’t read the book yet. But I’m so glad I did, because I loved Killed by True Love’s Kiss.
We follow Lottie, a girl desperate to repair her relationship with her younger sister before her sister’s seventeenth birthday. Lottie’s been haunted by a generational curse: one of the girls in their family dies on her seventeenth birthday from true love’s kiss. That belief has stained her family’s reputation, and it’s left her sister resentful and exhausted by Lottie’s fear.
As the birthday creeps closer, Lottie tries to keep the curse to herself. That is, until a group of men starts flocking to her sister, eager to court and marry her. Cue Lottie’s paranoia spiraling. She’s scrambling to find a way to break the curse while trying to keep her already-fragile relationship with her sister intact and trying not to fall for the kissecutioner himself.
Bono balances the conflict, stakes, and mystery so well. I never felt a lull; every scene felt intentional and genuinely interesting. The story is set in a fantasy world with strong Victorian-era England vibes, complete with suffocating propriety and oppression. And the way Bono paints the setting is absolutely vivid. I felt like I was standing in the ballroom with everyone else, watching the tension sharpen scene by scene.
The writing itself is smooth and easy to sink into, with layered symbolism woven through flowers, poems, and color. Having Love as an actual entity adds an extra level of depth to an already rich world, and we meet other entities along the way that only deepen the lore.
The romance had a slow-burn feel, but because while the timeline is fairly short, it works perfectly for the premise and the ticking-clock urgency of it all. I’m not usually a YA person, but I devoured this YA, no-spice, gothic romance like it was made specifically for my little haunted heart.
Bravo to Haley Bono on such a strong debut. This is book one of a duology, and I will absolutely be there for book two.
Thank you to Wings & Words and Haley Bono for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
December 29, 2025
Lottie believes her family is cursed, a story her grandmother used to tell her. A story that said a mysterious immortal suitor had kissed other women in the family, & that kiss of true love had ended their lives. Lottie’s knowledge of this encouraged her to become chaotic & unruly to keep all possible suitors away from her, not realising the effect that would have on her sister, Annabella’s life.
Deciding it’s time to fix her relationship with her sister, she travels to her Uncle’s mansion with Annabella for her sister’s birthday celebrations. But as soon as she arrives, the threat of the curse looms over her head.
I like how Love, & the other Blessings & Curses, were personified, almost like gods. It was an unusual concept that was done very well in this case. There are subtle nods to fairytales in a Grimm like fashion which I really enjoyed.
The odd chapter from Stad Shaw’s POV was interesting & definitely drew me in deeper to the story. He is arrogant & very easy to dislike as a reader but also very alluring.
Aristocracy vibes, Victorian-esque filled with curses & family secrets. It’s giving fated lovers as well as true enemies to lovers vibes.
It was a slower starting book for me, I struggled with the first few chapters & connecting with the characters. But I am glad I stuck it out. I really enjoyed this book, the twists & turns were fantastic & that cliff hanger…
Deciding it’s time to fix her relationship with her sister, she travels to her Uncle’s mansion with Annabella for her sister’s birthday celebrations. But as soon as she arrives, the threat of the curse looms over her head.
I like how Love, & the other Blessings & Curses, were personified, almost like gods. It was an unusual concept that was done very well in this case. There are subtle nods to fairytales in a Grimm like fashion which I really enjoyed.
The odd chapter from Stad Shaw’s POV was interesting & definitely drew me in deeper to the story. He is arrogant & very easy to dislike as a reader but also very alluring.
Aristocracy vibes, Victorian-esque filled with curses & family secrets. It’s giving fated lovers as well as true enemies to lovers vibes.
It was a slower starting book for me, I struggled with the first few chapters & connecting with the characters. But I am glad I stuck it out. I really enjoyed this book, the twists & turns were fantastic & that cliff hanger…
December 30, 2025
I was lucky enough to be apart of the ARC campaign for this book, so thank you Haley and Beth at Wings & Words for the opportunity! This review is my own, I was not paid for my words.
Killed by True Love's Kiss is a YA historical romance/fantasy that follows Lottie our FMC, a strong willed woman who is determined to break her families curse and she did! She made it past her seventeenth birthday, no tragic romance, no deadly kiss, but she was wrong. The curse wasn't broken, it was waiting. So then a tall, dark and handsome stranger with eyes as warm as copper starts to woo her sister, Lottie's world starts to unravel. Can Lottie confront Love himself and face the man he wants to kill and kiss.
This book definitely has a slow start, but keep with it! It has action, thrills, mystery and more. I loved the plot and the character development. But my goodness, the ending!! I wanted to scream and personally message Haley. You will be left flabbergasted. I cannot wait for book two.
Killed by True Love's Kiss is a YA historical romance/fantasy that follows Lottie our FMC, a strong willed woman who is determined to break her families curse and she did! She made it past her seventeenth birthday, no tragic romance, no deadly kiss, but she was wrong. The curse wasn't broken, it was waiting. So then a tall, dark and handsome stranger with eyes as warm as copper starts to woo her sister, Lottie's world starts to unravel. Can Lottie confront Love himself and face the man he wants to kill and kiss.
This book definitely has a slow start, but keep with it! It has action, thrills, mystery and more. I loved the plot and the character development. But my goodness, the ending!! I wanted to scream and personally message Haley. You will be left flabbergasted. I cannot wait for book two.
January 9, 2026
Well.............. words escape me with this book. I went in to it not really thinking it would be for me but I had heard good things so gave it a go. I am blown away with the story and the characters, so many paths crossed and there was some thinking to be done about the plot as there were lots of unexpected twists and turns, just when I thought I had something figured out, something happened and I was totally wrong!
Lottie and her feisty attitude had me hooked, which considering this book is set in historic times is not common to read about, which just endeared me to her even more!
Stad........ oh Stad, couldn't resist Lotties attitude either. Stads story is a bit sad but I wont spoil it for anyone!
This book ends on a cliff hanger and with an ending I saw coming but not in the way you expect. I need book 2 ASAP!
Thank you to the wings and world community for letting me have an ARC of this book.
Lottie and her feisty attitude had me hooked, which considering this book is set in historic times is not common to read about, which just endeared me to her even more!
Stad........ oh Stad, couldn't resist Lotties attitude either. Stads story is a bit sad but I wont spoil it for anyone!
This book ends on a cliff hanger and with an ending I saw coming but not in the way you expect. I need book 2 ASAP!
Thank you to the wings and world community for letting me have an ARC of this book.
December 29, 2025
Ok, this took me a minute to get into but by the end I was all in!
Lottie is a headstrong FMC and is absolutely determined to break a centuries old family curse threatening her sister's life.
Shaw is a mysterious MMC who inserts himself into her plans in the most unexpected way.
This had me gripped.
It's got gothic vibes, high society, scandals and eccentric family members galore plus THE most interesting concept of deities I've ever read.
It is written exceptionally well, I absolutely loved it and can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to Beth and the Wings and Words team for the free of charge ARC, I'm leaving this review completely voluntarily.
Lottie is a headstrong FMC and is absolutely determined to break a centuries old family curse threatening her sister's life.
Shaw is a mysterious MMC who inserts himself into her plans in the most unexpected way.
This had me gripped.
It's got gothic vibes, high society, scandals and eccentric family members galore plus THE most interesting concept of deities I've ever read.
It is written exceptionally well, I absolutely loved it and can't wait for book 2!
Thank you to Beth and the Wings and Words team for the free of charge ARC, I'm leaving this review completely voluntarily.
December 31, 2025
I was lucky enough to be an arc reader for this through the wings and words community. I loved this from start to finish, love how the story flowed, but my god, that cliffhanger. I can't wait for book 2
January 9, 2026
Just wow 😳 I cannot put into words how much I loved this read. After being in a slump for weeks, if not months this book broke that and had me hooked. Every chapter sucked me in a bit more and the more that was unveiled the more captivated I became. I loved the mystery and tension. This was a remarkable read and the author truly did amazing. I cannot wait for book two and will be anxiously awaiting it's arrival in the future.
January 6, 2026
I enjoyed this! The ending… I won’t lie Hayley… I’m fuming! You just left us on the edge didn’t you?
I really liked the era in which Lottie’s story was set. Although the writing style wasn’t my favourite, it was written in a way that portrayed the period well. It was fast paced, in some places it felt slightly too fast paced for me, but again the story was great and I looooaaatthhee a certain character. You’ll know who I mean when you read it guys. All in all this was a solid 3 stars for me and would definitely recommend if you like period paranormal drama’s. May the Blessings be with you… or is that necessarily a good thing? Who knows? 😏
I really liked the era in which Lottie’s story was set. Although the writing style wasn’t my favourite, it was written in a way that portrayed the period well. It was fast paced, in some places it felt slightly too fast paced for me, but again the story was great and I looooaaatthhee a certain character. You’ll know who I mean when you read it guys. All in all this was a solid 3 stars for me and would definitely recommend if you like period paranormal drama’s. May the Blessings be with you… or is that necessarily a good thing? Who knows? 😏
November 27, 2025
Wow. Where do I even begin? I suppose I should start with the obvious. Killed By True Love’s Kiss is a beautifully written tale set in a Victorian-style world with ritzy estates and powerful aristocrats. Lottie Harris, an eccentric young woman, has been obsessed with rumors of a family curse that’s said to have claimed the lives of her ancestors. One daughter from each generation dies mysteriously after kissing someone on their seventeenth birthday. But is the curse real, or is she just being paranoid?
One of my favorite things about this book was the personification of Love and other abstract concepts like Honesty, Beauty, Death, etc. Each of them is part of a unique sort of pantheon that toys with humanity. Like the Greek gods, many (if not all of them) are self-serving and mischievous in nature, creating a deliciously unpredictable and chaotic ambiance.
With this in mind, the premise of trying to break a centuries-old curse allows for some great tension. Lottie’s frantic warnings of doom often fall on deaf ears, creating a realistic sense of helplessness and dread. She alone must lead the fight against the supernatural, reminding me of the Final Destination movies where death itself seems to be slowly closing in. Even when Lottie understands the lethality of falling in love with someone, the story highlights just how hypnotic and intoxicating the emotion can be.
Another treat with this book is how it handles the enemies-to-lovers trope. Most of the romances I’ve read profess such a dynamic, though rarely do the characters feel like genuine enemies or have legitimate motivations for hating each other (or trying to kill each other). In this case, you can’t help but despise Stadtler Shaw. The dude OOZES arrogance and “hot guy” energy, yet it’s that same charisma that makes his vulnerability and budding romance duly satisfying.
Each character had a unique and memorable feel. The unsung hero was Benny the butler though. Trust me. He was the GOAT. And with a name like that? Chef’s kiss. Overall, the story was a fun ride. It took a little bit for the suspense to fire on all cylinders, but when it did, I was flipping pages all the way up until the jaw-dropping ending. Kudos to author Haley Bono. Now I’ll have to incessantly nag her for the next book.
One of my favorite things about this book was the personification of Love and other abstract concepts like Honesty, Beauty, Death, etc. Each of them is part of a unique sort of pantheon that toys with humanity. Like the Greek gods, many (if not all of them) are self-serving and mischievous in nature, creating a deliciously unpredictable and chaotic ambiance.
With this in mind, the premise of trying to break a centuries-old curse allows for some great tension. Lottie’s frantic warnings of doom often fall on deaf ears, creating a realistic sense of helplessness and dread. She alone must lead the fight against the supernatural, reminding me of the Final Destination movies where death itself seems to be slowly closing in. Even when Lottie understands the lethality of falling in love with someone, the story highlights just how hypnotic and intoxicating the emotion can be.
Another treat with this book is how it handles the enemies-to-lovers trope. Most of the romances I’ve read profess such a dynamic, though rarely do the characters feel like genuine enemies or have legitimate motivations for hating each other (or trying to kill each other). In this case, you can’t help but despise Stadtler Shaw. The dude OOZES arrogance and “hot guy” energy, yet it’s that same charisma that makes his vulnerability and budding romance duly satisfying.
Each character had a unique and memorable feel. The unsung hero was Benny the butler though. Trust me. He was the GOAT. And with a name like that? Chef’s kiss. Overall, the story was a fun ride. It took a little bit for the suspense to fire on all cylinders, but when it did, I was flipping pages all the way up until the jaw-dropping ending. Kudos to author Haley Bono. Now I’ll have to incessantly nag her for the next book.
December 14, 2025
Killed by True Love’s Kiss by Haley Bono captivated me in the best ways possible.
This story is rich with intrigue, a strong plot, and constant twists and turns that pull you deeper the more you read. It feels like a beautifully dark, almost modern-day Grimm fairytale—definitely not a happy one, but a heartbreaking, emotional journey that keeps you guessing until the very end… and then leaves you hanging on a cliffhanger.
Don’t get me wrong—I loved every bit of this story and am now in desperate need of the sequel.
Annabel constantly made me rethink my opinions of her, Lottie completely won my heart with her spunk and personality, and Lord Shaw… oh my. I’ll let you discover that for yourself.
This book is a much-deserved 5 stars, and I absolutely cannot wait for book two.
I was given the opportunity to read an early copy, and I enjoyed it immensely.
This story is rich with intrigue, a strong plot, and constant twists and turns that pull you deeper the more you read. It feels like a beautifully dark, almost modern-day Grimm fairytale—definitely not a happy one, but a heartbreaking, emotional journey that keeps you guessing until the very end… and then leaves you hanging on a cliffhanger.
Don’t get me wrong—I loved every bit of this story and am now in desperate need of the sequel.
Annabel constantly made me rethink my opinions of her, Lottie completely won my heart with her spunk and personality, and Lord Shaw… oh my. I’ll let you discover that for yourself.
This book is a much-deserved 5 stars, and I absolutely cannot wait for book two.
I was given the opportunity to read an early copy, and I enjoyed it immensely.
December 20, 2025
This was such a great book I absolutely enjoyed every page it didn’t want to put it down
January 9, 2026
I really struggled with the first 25% of this book, and wondered where it would go.
however I perceived and I am so glad that I did. there was so much to unpack and it was done so well.
beautifully written too 👏
however I perceived and I am so glad that I did. there was so much to unpack and it was done so well.
beautifully written too 👏
October 30, 2025
I was so excited to receive this ARC and it did not disappoint! The writing was gripping, the characters engaging and three-dimensional, and the plot was sprinkled with twists that kept me turning the page. Though I was curious how the plot could continue to be engaging after the first third (the stakes set up surrounding Lottie's sister's birthday and protecting her from the family curse), the reveal of information, the development of Lottie and Shaw's relationship, and their shared goal was enough to keep me hooked. I loved the subtle nods to classic fairytales and the way Haley spun those tropes around for her own story. Gothic, romantic, and immersive, this is a must read if you're drawn to Grimm fairytales, stories with slow burn plots and romance, or ominous riddles (when you meet Aunt Ivy you'll understand).
November 13, 2025
An intriguing read! Curses, family secrets, and an aristocracy forbidden romance with witty banter. I had a good time reading this and encourage a read if you have an interest in a captivating story!
January 1, 2026
To be young and just beginning to step towards love, only to be cursed to die by true love’s kiss — the cruel beauty of this premise had me requesting a copy immediately.
This is a slow-burn story, but it needs to be. The careful pacing allows the book’s uniqueness to unfold while fully immersing the reader in its rich, historical and affluent setting. Haley’s prose is beautiful, filled with vivid and evocative imagery that makes every scene feel alive.
One of the standout elements for me was her ability to create a character who speaks entirely in rhyme — and somehow make it feel natural rather than distracting. It flows effortlessly within the dialogue and adds a magical, almost fairytale quality to the narrative. Truly, a round of applause for that alone.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be left absolutely ravenous for book two.
Fabulous read from start to finish.
All opinions and comments within this review are entirely my own and have been provided voluntarily. I would like to express my gratitude to the Haley Bono and Beth at Wings and Words, for allowing me an advanced copy of this book.
This is a slow-burn story, but it needs to be. The careful pacing allows the book’s uniqueness to unfold while fully immersing the reader in its rich, historical and affluent setting. Haley’s prose is beautiful, filled with vivid and evocative imagery that makes every scene feel alive.
One of the standout elements for me was her ability to create a character who speaks entirely in rhyme — and somehow make it feel natural rather than distracting. It flows effortlessly within the dialogue and adds a magical, almost fairytale quality to the narrative. Truly, a round of applause for that alone.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be left absolutely ravenous for book two.
Fabulous read from start to finish.
All opinions and comments within this review are entirely my own and have been provided voluntarily. I would like to express my gratitude to the Haley Bono and Beth at Wings and Words, for allowing me an advanced copy of this book.
January 8, 2026
absolutely amazing book had me hooked from the beginning with curse and love and intrigues lottie is my fave what she has been through to stop the curse my heart breaks for her
December 14, 2025
From prelude, you just feel the era of the book and its just emphasised even more when chap 1 hits woth the mentioning of the tall castle and the Gargoyles featured! This in particular seriously helps give the gothic vibes that I was hoping for and hoping to feel through the whole book! Especially with the eerie mention of moonlight reflecting i LOVED it.
I had only started the book and this quote hit me in the feels "Sometimes it hurt to love something so perfect and not be swept away by envy. Like loving a waterfall" 😭😭
Anabella seemed so nieve in the beginning? Maybe that was just me though! Lottie tho, I loved from the beginning lol she was so me - prefers books over people and chocolate. Can I get a HELL YEAH! 🤣 Give me book stacks, chocolate, a cosy fire and throw any day of the year over people!!!
Lottie won my heart from the beginning
And Lord Shaw - well fuck. Ill let you discover this one on your own and read your opnion!
The twists in this book is insanity and just keeps you page turning its crazy!!!! It has a seriously strong plot is fully of intrigue, and you really just dont know what to expect next.
KBTLFS, takes you on a heart wrenching dark beautifully written journey. If you go in, go in knowing it does cliffhang so be prepared to be ready for the journey to continue in book 2 !
I got made aware of this book via Wings & Words to help aid Haley with more exposure for this awesome book! I dont read YA often, but hearing this was a YA dark gothic romantasy! Had me.
Super excited for book 2 !
I had only started the book and this quote hit me in the feels "Sometimes it hurt to love something so perfect and not be swept away by envy. Like loving a waterfall" 😭😭
Anabella seemed so nieve in the beginning? Maybe that was just me though! Lottie tho, I loved from the beginning lol she was so me - prefers books over people and chocolate. Can I get a HELL YEAH! 🤣 Give me book stacks, chocolate, a cosy fire and throw any day of the year over people!!!
Lottie won my heart from the beginning
And Lord Shaw - well fuck. Ill let you discover this one on your own and read your opnion!
The twists in this book is insanity and just keeps you page turning its crazy!!!! It has a seriously strong plot is fully of intrigue, and you really just dont know what to expect next.
KBTLFS, takes you on a heart wrenching dark beautifully written journey. If you go in, go in knowing it does cliffhang so be prepared to be ready for the journey to continue in book 2 !
I got made aware of this book via Wings & Words to help aid Haley with more exposure for this awesome book! I dont read YA often, but hearing this was a YA dark gothic romantasy! Had me.
Super excited for book 2 !
January 2, 2026
This book is a YA Historical romance. Very different style of genre than I’m used to but I liked it. It was a very slow burn and took me until about 65% in to start really enjoying it. However once I was hooked, I then couldn’t put it down.
The ending 😱 definitely leaves you wanting more and I can’t wait for the next book!
The ending 😱 definitely leaves you wanting more and I can’t wait for the next book!
December 18, 2025
4.25 out of 5 ⭐️ this book had me 💀 at the end! I received this book as an ARC and finally had time to read it this last week. Lost a lot of sleep last night because there was no way I was going to wait any longer to see if my girl Lottie made it out alive. I’ve noticed many comments of readers referencing similarities between this book and Once Upon a Broken Heart. While there is some cross over (they both have a handsome, tempting, and irresistible bad boy who might do more harm than good), this book is very much unique in its own right. I love that this is Hailey Bono’s debut novel and I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book! 🥀
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December 10, 2025This book! I love the language and the heart of this cursed love story. Lottie is my favorite morally gray character. And Shaw... my heart goes out to him too. It's beautiful and heart wrenching and everything in between. So many emotions! I loved it.
November 28, 2025
Guys this right here was another great book for me. Initially I forgot that this had sprinkles of Alice in wonderland in it. So I was initially thinking of it as sorta a OUABH or Carval sorta read. Such as in the beginning you dont know who to trust or if the FMC is a reliable narrator. You have curses, and just almost this Haunting essence to the story that gives it sorta an eerieness. While also delivery this societal courting, rules and bending against them or with them, similar in ways to like Selection or Bridgerton.(Love books like this) Then I hit this moment where it slapped me in the face and remembered it is alice based and in essence it blows the ouabh and carval relation out. It was so fun picking out Easter eggs throughout the story. Despite these comparison it is its own story, and I absolutely love it for this.
Devoured fellas, I devoured this book in a few days and yes this one also kept me from sleep. Come on that ending had me staring off into my dark room wondering...nail biting to know what was gonna happen. I knew once I got to a certain point this ending was gonna not hang me from a cliff but straight on launch me off of it. I just couldnt quite see how until I was staring it down.
I think my favorite, which I have alot of things I enjoyed about this book, but was the angst and banter.🤤 Who could have known a broom closet could turn into a sauna.😅 Every time the two main characters got together I needed a sharp steak knife just to cut the tension. So many lines that made me giggle. Its books like this that make me believe that angst and tension is not gown from books.
I would write more, but I honestly just dont want to give too much away. Just go read it. Ebook is only 99c or free on KU.
Devoured fellas, I devoured this book in a few days and yes this one also kept me from sleep. Come on that ending had me staring off into my dark room wondering...nail biting to know what was gonna happen. I knew once I got to a certain point this ending was gonna not hang me from a cliff but straight on launch me off of it. I just couldnt quite see how until I was staring it down.
I think my favorite, which I have alot of things I enjoyed about this book, but was the angst and banter.🤤 Who could have known a broom closet could turn into a sauna.😅 Every time the two main characters got together I needed a sharp steak knife just to cut the tension. So many lines that made me giggle. Its books like this that make me believe that angst and tension is not gown from books.
I would write more, but I honestly just dont want to give too much away. Just go read it. Ebook is only 99c or free on KU.
November 4, 2025
4 Stars.
🥀 The vibes:
- Book 1 in duology
- Gothic
- Fated lovers
- Curses & deadly bargains
- Mystery and secrets
- Slow burn
- Closed door
🥀 My thoughts:
Two sisters torn apart by a deadly curse that one fears and the other mocks. And when a man gets in the middle of the sisters, can love defy fate-or will it seal their doom once and for all?
🥀 There were a lot of abstract concepts in this one - like Love, Beauty, and Honesty being immortal beings, for example. There’s Curses and Blessings, and sometimes I was a little bit confused by those elements. But the overall plot continued to tighten up as the story progressed, and I was pleasantly surprised with the turn of events. It was very unique and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The twisty directions that the plot took were so fun.
🥀 One of the main things that was difficult for me was the dynamic between Lottie and Annabella. They are described as best friends, but I didn’t get that vibe at all based on their on-page interactions. I felt like Annabella was so unlikable and horrible to Lottie. I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to dislike Annabella or not but I honestly disliked her SO much, that at times I was wanting Lottie to let the cards fall where they may. 🙈
🥀 Overall, I really enjoyed this one! The vibes of the ride were 100% there. The execution of the story kept me on my toes. While there were some moments that felt choppy or unexplained, I was still impressed with this debut novel. This is book 1 in a duology, and it ends in a cliffhanger. I eagerly await the next one and have high hopes for this author’s career.
Note- closed door; check TW, there are some dark/mature themes. Editing was still in progress at the time of my ARC, so my review can only speak to the story, characters, and plot.
YA Considerations: Lottie is plotting to kill someone and considering how to do it in detail. A lot of dark themes all throughout. Abuse. Death. Dying. Killing. Losing a baby due to abuse.
Release date: November 18, 2025.
Thank you so much to Haley Bono and Eight Moons Publishing for the gifted copy.
🥀 The vibes:
- Book 1 in duology
- Gothic
- Fated lovers
- Curses & deadly bargains
- Mystery and secrets
- Slow burn
- Closed door
🥀 My thoughts:
Two sisters torn apart by a deadly curse that one fears and the other mocks. And when a man gets in the middle of the sisters, can love defy fate-or will it seal their doom once and for all?
🥀 There were a lot of abstract concepts in this one - like Love, Beauty, and Honesty being immortal beings, for example. There’s Curses and Blessings, and sometimes I was a little bit confused by those elements. But the overall plot continued to tighten up as the story progressed, and I was pleasantly surprised with the turn of events. It was very unique and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The twisty directions that the plot took were so fun.
🥀 One of the main things that was difficult for me was the dynamic between Lottie and Annabella. They are described as best friends, but I didn’t get that vibe at all based on their on-page interactions. I felt like Annabella was so unlikable and horrible to Lottie. I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to dislike Annabella or not but I honestly disliked her SO much, that at times I was wanting Lottie to let the cards fall where they may. 🙈
🥀 Overall, I really enjoyed this one! The vibes of the ride were 100% there. The execution of the story kept me on my toes. While there were some moments that felt choppy or unexplained, I was still impressed with this debut novel. This is book 1 in a duology, and it ends in a cliffhanger. I eagerly await the next one and have high hopes for this author’s career.
Note- closed door; check TW, there are some dark/mature themes. Editing was still in progress at the time of my ARC, so my review can only speak to the story, characters, and plot.
YA Considerations: Lottie is plotting to kill someone and considering how to do it in detail. A lot of dark themes all throughout. Abuse. Death. Dying. Killing. Losing a baby due to abuse.
Release date: November 18, 2025.
Thank you so much to Haley Bono and Eight Moons Publishing for the gifted copy.
December 1, 2025
Haley Bono crafts a mesmerizing Gothic fantasy that blends haunting atmosphere, intricate family secrets, and the perilous weight of destiny. The story follows a heroine bound by an ominous curse, navigating a world of whispers, blessings, and dangerous bargains. Every page drips with tension and romantic unease, pulling you deeper into a tale where love can be both salvation and ruin.
The writing is lush and immersive, with vivid imagery and layered characters that feel achingly real. Themes of fate, sacrifice, and forbidden longing are woven into a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end. The closing chapters deliver an emotional crescendo that lingers long after you turn the last page, and the teaser for the next installment promises even higher stakes and darker revelations.
Why You’ll Love It: Gothic vibes, morally complex characters, and a story that grips your heart and refuses to let go.
The writing is lush and immersive, with vivid imagery and layered characters that feel achingly real. Themes of fate, sacrifice, and forbidden longing are woven into a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end. The closing chapters deliver an emotional crescendo that lingers long after you turn the last page, and the teaser for the next installment promises even higher stakes and darker revelations.
Why You’ll Love It: Gothic vibes, morally complex characters, and a story that grips your heart and refuses to let go.
November 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Starting off with an effective prologue and a simple beginning slowly easing the readers in to the life of Lottie Harris, who believes in a family curse, this book had me sucked in wanting to know all the family secrets.
I loved the twists and turns that this book brought, and the depth of secrets to uncover. You think you have the gist of the history, but some secrets were hoped to stay buried.
The family tree shown at the beginning of the book is very helpful in connecting the pieces of information revealed and helping readers to follow along with the generational curse.
Personalities of each character were very well written, and only seeing the perspective from few eyes makes you wonder what details may be overlooked by the reader (& the character). This has me wanting to read the next book!
There are some darker themes that show up, so be aware of your triggers.
Sure there are repeats about the main character's motivation, but I feel like that goes along with her character. To repeat why something is important and to keep one to continue on.
Some of the vibes that arose made me think of Corpse Bride, Coraline, & Once Upon A Broken Heart.
Overall, I loved this book. It kept my interest, had my heart racing, me gasping at surprises, and me not wanting it to end.
Starting off with an effective prologue and a simple beginning slowly easing the readers in to the life of Lottie Harris, who believes in a family curse, this book had me sucked in wanting to know all the family secrets.
I loved the twists and turns that this book brought, and the depth of secrets to uncover. You think you have the gist of the history, but some secrets were hoped to stay buried.
The family tree shown at the beginning of the book is very helpful in connecting the pieces of information revealed and helping readers to follow along with the generational curse.
Personalities of each character were very well written, and only seeing the perspective from few eyes makes you wonder what details may be overlooked by the reader (& the character). This has me wanting to read the next book!
There are some darker themes that show up, so be aware of your triggers.
Sure there are repeats about the main character's motivation, but I feel like that goes along with her character. To repeat why something is important and to keep one to continue on.
Some of the vibes that arose made me think of Corpse Bride, Coraline, & Once Upon A Broken Heart.
Overall, I loved this book. It kept my interest, had my heart racing, me gasping at surprises, and me not wanting it to end.
November 18, 2025
5 Stars! Wow!
This story will rip your heart out in the best possible way.
There are mature themes, but I found myself loving these characters and rooting for them as if they were real.
The gothic vibes landed exactly the way I would expect them to. And I loved it! The stakes were high and believable.
This is a duology so be prepared for that when reaching the ending, but it is worth it! I can’t wait to read book 2.
This was an excellent debut and I’m looking forward to more in this author’s career!
This story will rip your heart out in the best possible way.
There are mature themes, but I found myself loving these characters and rooting for them as if they were real.
The gothic vibes landed exactly the way I would expect them to. And I loved it! The stakes were high and believable.
This is a duology so be prepared for that when reaching the ending, but it is worth it! I can’t wait to read book 2.
This was an excellent debut and I’m looking forward to more in this author’s career!
November 14, 2025
**A special thanks to Haley Bono and Eight Moons Publishing for the advanced readers' copy!**
Be ready to absolutely adore the defiant, seventeen-year-old Lottie and her growing partnership with the equally obstinate Stadtler Shaw. The push and pull of these characters was expertly done, and I enjoyed the twists and turns that the author gave the reader to keep us turning the page. I was particularly thrilled by the ending of the book; even though I had accurately predicted what would happen, the last scenes delivered on every level!
There were moments where I felt pushed out of the story, and wished for a bit more character development, particularly around Lottie and Anabella’s relationship, as well as Lottie’s own motivations.
Loved the Victorian and gothic vibes, and I know my teenage self would have obsessed over it for quite a while!
Be ready to absolutely adore the defiant, seventeen-year-old Lottie and her growing partnership with the equally obstinate Stadtler Shaw. The push and pull of these characters was expertly done, and I enjoyed the twists and turns that the author gave the reader to keep us turning the page. I was particularly thrilled by the ending of the book; even though I had accurately predicted what would happen, the last scenes delivered on every level!
There were moments where I felt pushed out of the story, and wished for a bit more character development, particularly around Lottie and Anabella’s relationship, as well as Lottie’s own motivations.
Loved the Victorian and gothic vibes, and I know my teenage self would have obsessed over it for quite a while!
November 18, 2025
This book was an absolute blast. I spent most of my time reading it on the edge of my seat. And at the center was one of the most compelling enemies to lovers romances I have read. She took time to establish why they were enemies and the stakes were believably high. When I say I want more slow burn enemies to lovers, I want more of this 😂
And the numerous plot twists really raised the stakes and were excellently executed. And the ending! I can’t wait to read what Haley has next!
And the numerous plot twists really raised the stakes and were excellently executed. And the ending! I can’t wait to read what Haley has next!
November 18, 2025
I read this book in its early stages and have seen it grown from concept to drafted to published work. I am so proud of Haley and love this world that she’s created! I think the characters are fun, the world is the perfect amount of gothic, and that cliffhanger… (basically Haley better pay for my therapy after this lol).
Can’t wait for book 2!!!
Can’t wait for book 2!!!
November 11, 2025
~Thank you to Haley Bono & Eight Moons Publishing for an advanced readers copy in exchange for a review!~
A YA romantasy where the FMC is a spunky 17 year old willing to do anything to save her sister? I'm in. One of my favorite parts about the novel is that Lottie isn't afraid to take big risks to save her sister from a curse--a curse no one believes in but her--and she isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, either. The book shines in the area of worldbuilding (the Blessings & Curses deities are VERY cool) and unexpected stakes (you'll know what I mean when you read about the scene with Honesty, I literally squealed). It can be a slow read at various parts of the book, and I wished there leading to the mystery's twist at the end, but overall I was entertained. If I was still teaching middle school, I'd 100% order a copy for my classroom.
A YA romantasy where the FMC is a spunky 17 year old willing to do anything to save her sister? I'm in. One of my favorite parts about the novel is that Lottie isn't afraid to take big risks to save her sister from a curse--a curse no one believes in but her--and she isn't afraid to get her hands dirty, either. The book shines in the area of worldbuilding (the Blessings & Curses deities are VERY cool) and unexpected stakes (you'll know what I mean when you read about the scene with Honesty, I literally squealed). It can be a slow read at various parts of the book, and I wished there leading to the mystery's twist at the end, but overall I was entertained. If I was still teaching middle school, I'd 100% order a copy for my classroom.
November 17, 2025
I devoured this book! I am so impressed this is Haley’s debut. Her writing is beautiful! The plot is so intriguing and unique. There are several plot twists that made me gasp out loud! The ending will have you dying for the second book. I loved this twist on “true love’s kiss” and what someone would do for love. Highly recommend this book!
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