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The Convenient Curse
Hyacinth's boring (and lonely) life flips upside down the day her cat, Max, tricks her into travelling through a portal to another world.
But in the whimsical land of LaWardia, he's no feline—he's a brawny pirate and he knows way more about her than he's letting on.
Hyacinth soon realizes she isn't who she thought she was, thanks to a bag of magic marbles, a mysterious itch, an enchanted boat—oh, and a family that's hunting her down.
As she flees, travelling island to island searching for answers, she discovers that bigger matters claim an ancient magic, a looming audit, and her growing feelings for Max.
But in the whimsical land of LaWardia, he's no feline—he's a brawny pirate and he knows way more about her than he's letting on.
Hyacinth soon realizes she isn't who she thought she was, thanks to a bag of magic marbles, a mysterious itch, an enchanted boat—oh, and a family that's hunting her down.
As she flees, travelling island to island searching for answers, she discovers that bigger matters claim an ancient magic, a looming audit, and her growing feelings for Max.
- GenresFantasy
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 23, 2026
2 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 2, 2026
A relaxing read full of drama and fantasy.
A book that will sweep you away to a world of magic!
I loved the writing style and the characters in the story are an interesting bunch!
I highly recommend as a comfort fantasy read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A book that will sweep you away to a world of magic!
I loved the writing style and the characters in the story are an interesting bunch!
I highly recommend as a comfort fantasy read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given an advance copy by the author and my review is voluntary.
It was bit of a struggle at first due to FMC confusion and the journey of finding out where she is and who she is.
But it is cute cozy adventure, if you like mystery, pirates and cats, you will definitely like this book.
It was bit of a struggle at first due to FMC confusion and the journey of finding out where she is and who she is.
But it is cute cozy adventure, if you like mystery, pirates and cats, you will definitely like this book.
December 6, 2025
Suspense, family drama, love, The Convenient Curse was everything I needed in a fantasy novel. Berri takes you on a journey that doesn’t disappoint. From Berri’s detailed narrative, you are immersed in the whimsical lands she describes. If you want to tuck into a cosy read that transports you, this is the book for you. Rating: 4.5 stars.
I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 4, 2026
Okay but imagine inheriting magic… and instead of fireballs or dramatic lightning storms, you get a gift that manifests in the most inconveniently convenient ways possible. Honestly? Iconic.
The Convenient Curse gives cozy fantasy meets family drama with a side of magical chaos, and I was here for it.
Hyacinth is out here discovering her magical heritage while simultaneously unpacking generational baggage. We love a multitasking queen. Watching her navigate “The Convenience” a power that pops up in oddly helpful ways adds such a fresh spin to the fantasy genre. It’s not flashy battle magic; it’s woven into daily life, which somehow makes it feel even more personal (and occasionally more chaotic).
And can we talk about Ira and Max? Because the emotional layers in those relationships? Chef’s kiss. The tension, the vulnerability, the quiet moments that say more than the dialogue it all hits. Hyacinth’s journey isn’t just about magic; it’s about figuring out who she is outside of her family’s expectations and secrets.
The plot keeps you hooked with that slow unraveling of the past. Every little reveal feels like peeling back another layer of a very magical onion.
Now, I’ll be honest there are moments where the pacing slows down, especially when we’re deep in exposition land. And while Hyacinth shines, a few side characters could’ve used a little more spotlight. But overall? The charm outweighs the lulls.
If you love fantasy that blends humor, heart, family complexity, and self-discovery (with magic that’s more “subtle chaos” than “apocalyptic destruction”), The Convenient Curse absolutely delivers.
It’s cozy, clever, and just cursed enough to keep things interesting. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Convenient Curse gives cozy fantasy meets family drama with a side of magical chaos, and I was here for it.
Hyacinth is out here discovering her magical heritage while simultaneously unpacking generational baggage. We love a multitasking queen. Watching her navigate “The Convenience” a power that pops up in oddly helpful ways adds such a fresh spin to the fantasy genre. It’s not flashy battle magic; it’s woven into daily life, which somehow makes it feel even more personal (and occasionally more chaotic).
And can we talk about Ira and Max? Because the emotional layers in those relationships? Chef’s kiss. The tension, the vulnerability, the quiet moments that say more than the dialogue it all hits. Hyacinth’s journey isn’t just about magic; it’s about figuring out who she is outside of her family’s expectations and secrets.
The plot keeps you hooked with that slow unraveling of the past. Every little reveal feels like peeling back another layer of a very magical onion.
Now, I’ll be honest there are moments where the pacing slows down, especially when we’re deep in exposition land. And while Hyacinth shines, a few side characters could’ve used a little more spotlight. But overall? The charm outweighs the lulls.
If you love fantasy that blends humor, heart, family complexity, and self-discovery (with magic that’s more “subtle chaos” than “apocalyptic destruction”), The Convenient Curse absolutely delivers.
It’s cozy, clever, and just cursed enough to keep things interesting. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ The Convenient Curse by Jendra Barri
The Convenient Curse is a solid, enjoyable read with a fun premise and enough emotional pull to keep you turning pages, even if it doesn’t fully hit its potential.
The concept itself is interesting and gives the story a strong starting point. There’s a nice blend of magic, tension, and romance, and the world feels thoughtfully put together without being overly complicated. When the story leans into its strengths, it’s genuinely engaging.
Where it stumbles a bit is in the execution. Some moments feel rushed, especially emotionally, and a few plot beats resolve a little too conveniently for the weight they’re meant to carry. The characters are likable, but they sometimes feel like they’re just on the edge of being fully fleshed out.
That said, it’s still an enjoyable read. The writing is smooth, the tone is consistent, and the story has a charm that makes it easy to finish. The Convenient Curse lands comfortably at 3.5 stars — good, entertaining, and promising, even if it leaves you wishing it had gone a little deeper.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Convenient Curse is a solid, enjoyable read with a fun premise and enough emotional pull to keep you turning pages, even if it doesn’t fully hit its potential.
The concept itself is interesting and gives the story a strong starting point. There’s a nice blend of magic, tension, and romance, and the world feels thoughtfully put together without being overly complicated. When the story leans into its strengths, it’s genuinely engaging.
Where it stumbles a bit is in the execution. Some moments feel rushed, especially emotionally, and a few plot beats resolve a little too conveniently for the weight they’re meant to carry. The characters are likable, but they sometimes feel like they’re just on the edge of being fully fleshed out.
That said, it’s still an enjoyable read. The writing is smooth, the tone is consistent, and the story has a charm that makes it easy to finish. The Convenient Curse lands comfortably at 3.5 stars — good, entertaining, and promising, even if it leaves you wishing it had gone a little deeper.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC of this book, which does not affect my review. Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the chance to read this book.
This was a book I struggled to rate, as in some areas, it does things quite well, and in others (especially some parts in the beginning), I had a hard time going forward with it. I loved the idea, and there were many whimsical parts of the book that gave it its own cozy feel, but not without struggles or stakes for the main character. Talk about family drama and unraveling mysteries! I also enjoyed the characters, Max most of all. His accent was a nice touch and it was written very well. It made me in the mood to watch Outlander or something like that! I think this book will do especially well for anyone who likes cats. You wouldn’t think a pirate fantasy novel would include so much about cats, but it does and it works well. The plot is not very complicated, but there is still mysteries to unravel for Hyacinth as she strives to get accustomed to LaWardia, the truth about her cat (Max, my favorite character), and as she learns more about her family and herself. There are also many fantasy creatures in this novel: Sprites, Trolls, and the like. It gives the book its distinctive cozy fantasy feeling.
I struggled the most with the pacing and the way information was given. Characters would often go on long spiels about stories, and even in the beginning, small things like physical appearances were written in a “laundry list” way, where physical descriptions were written out like a list rather than integrated into the story. While that was only a small problem, it took me out of the story in the beginning. Likewise, due to the approach to giving the reader information, the pacing was affected, and the book reads a bit rocky from time to time.
However, it improves in the end. By the last quarter of the book, I was far more invested than I had been previously, and that is what bumped my rating up. In fact, I actually loved the ending, but it is no surprise by now that anytime there is a bit of twist or an unexpected decision thrown in, I am a gigantic fan. I was invested in how Hyacinth and Max’s story would play out, and the choices the author made felt so fitting yet not something I would have expected in the beginning.
For this reason, I would recommend The Convenient Curse, with a small warning that you might have to trudge through parts in the beginning and some uneven pacing in order to get to the parts that make it worth it. But it is worth it. The characters are lovely, and when the plot does unfold and finds its footing amidst the action, it is something you want to stick around for.
This was a book I struggled to rate, as in some areas, it does things quite well, and in others (especially some parts in the beginning), I had a hard time going forward with it. I loved the idea, and there were many whimsical parts of the book that gave it its own cozy feel, but not without struggles or stakes for the main character. Talk about family drama and unraveling mysteries! I also enjoyed the characters, Max most of all. His accent was a nice touch and it was written very well. It made me in the mood to watch Outlander or something like that! I think this book will do especially well for anyone who likes cats. You wouldn’t think a pirate fantasy novel would include so much about cats, but it does and it works well. The plot is not very complicated, but there is still mysteries to unravel for Hyacinth as she strives to get accustomed to LaWardia, the truth about her cat (Max, my favorite character), and as she learns more about her family and herself. There are also many fantasy creatures in this novel: Sprites, Trolls, and the like. It gives the book its distinctive cozy fantasy feeling.
I struggled the most with the pacing and the way information was given. Characters would often go on long spiels about stories, and even in the beginning, small things like physical appearances were written in a “laundry list” way, where physical descriptions were written out like a list rather than integrated into the story. While that was only a small problem, it took me out of the story in the beginning. Likewise, due to the approach to giving the reader information, the pacing was affected, and the book reads a bit rocky from time to time.
However, it improves in the end. By the last quarter of the book, I was far more invested than I had been previously, and that is what bumped my rating up. In fact, I actually loved the ending, but it is no surprise by now that anytime there is a bit of twist or an unexpected decision thrown in, I am a gigantic fan. I was invested in how Hyacinth and Max’s story would play out, and the choices the author made felt so fitting yet not something I would have expected in the beginning.
For this reason, I would recommend The Convenient Curse, with a small warning that you might have to trudge through parts in the beginning and some uneven pacing in order to get to the parts that make it worth it. But it is worth it. The characters are lovely, and when the plot does unfold and finds its footing amidst the action, it is something you want to stick around for.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and Booksirens for the ARC.
This is a 3.75, rounded up to 4.
Hyacinth's lonely life flips upside down the day her cat, Max, tricks her into travelling through a portal to another world.
But in the whimsical land of LaWardia, he's no feline—he's a tough pirate, and he knows way more about her than he's letting on.
Hyacinth soon realizes she has possession of some magic marbles, which are part of the family legacy that requires her to ascend to the Arch Crown at a terrible cost. To avoid that, she flees and starts running away from her family, who are hunting her down, travelling island to island searching for answers. She discovers that she has multiple fish to fry: an ancient magic, a looming audit, and her growing feelings for Max.
As a cat mom, wherever there is a feline MC, there I am. Which is also why I really loved Max as a character and found that his little habits, behavioral patterns, and intentions were very well written and based on typical cat behavior we all know and love. Hyacinth was also easy to connect with as the FMC, and thankfully, her feelings for Max did not come across as super awkward or inappropriate, which was what I feared getting into the story. Also, just like her, there are no lengths I wouldn't go to for my cat!
For the most part, it was an enjoyable read, and I found the language the author used easy to follow, except for Max using the word "lass" way too much in the beginning. The world-building was decent, and the groups and creatures mentioned in the story were well thought out. Honestly, there were even a couple of scenes where I held my breath and hoped for the best outcome. However, and very sadly, the ending fell a bit too flat for me and it felt a little too rushed. Looking at its emotional depth, this story definitely deserved a much better executed ending.
Still, I'm glad I read it, and I think it is an enjoyable fantasy read for some cozy down time.
This is a 3.75, rounded up to 4.
Hyacinth's lonely life flips upside down the day her cat, Max, tricks her into travelling through a portal to another world.
But in the whimsical land of LaWardia, he's no feline—he's a tough pirate, and he knows way more about her than he's letting on.
Hyacinth soon realizes she has possession of some magic marbles, which are part of the family legacy that requires her to ascend to the Arch Crown at a terrible cost. To avoid that, she flees and starts running away from her family, who are hunting her down, travelling island to island searching for answers. She discovers that she has multiple fish to fry: an ancient magic, a looming audit, and her growing feelings for Max.
As a cat mom, wherever there is a feline MC, there I am. Which is also why I really loved Max as a character and found that his little habits, behavioral patterns, and intentions were very well written and based on typical cat behavior we all know and love. Hyacinth was also easy to connect with as the FMC, and thankfully, her feelings for Max did not come across as super awkward or inappropriate, which was what I feared getting into the story. Also, just like her, there are no lengths I wouldn't go to for my cat!
For the most part, it was an enjoyable read, and I found the language the author used easy to follow, except for Max using the word "lass" way too much in the beginning. The world-building was decent, and the groups and creatures mentioned in the story were well thought out. Honestly, there were even a couple of scenes where I held my breath and hoped for the best outcome. However, and very sadly, the ending fell a bit too flat for me and it felt a little too rushed. Looking at its emotional depth, this story definitely deserved a much better executed ending.
Still, I'm glad I read it, and I think it is an enjoyable fantasy read for some cozy down time.
March 14, 2026
The Convenient Curse had such a unique premise, as we learn about our FMC we learn that her magic - slightly inconvenient yet charmingly whimsical - is kind of inconsistent but somehow proves to be helpful when she needs it most. Additionally her magic is less ‘let me help you fight a war’ and more a cute everyday kind of magic. It’s been a while since I’ve read a fun and cozy fantasy and between the unique magic and diverse cast of characters and creatures, it was refreshing.
The only con for me was that I did struggle to push through the first bit of this novel. Due to how fast-paced some aspects of the plot were in the beginning, I felt I didn’t earn some of the information, but that I was given it to hurry things along.
All in all this was a fun read with some opportunity for improvement regarding pacing and making us work a little harder for some of the information, as well as how the information is given to us (sometimes it felt out of necessity and without as much care in the delivery). In saying that, I am genuinely really happy I pushed through and would recommend this book for anyone who loves a good pirate adventure and a little chaos.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the chance to read this book.
The only con for me was that I did struggle to push through the first bit of this novel. Due to how fast-paced some aspects of the plot were in the beginning, I felt I didn’t earn some of the information, but that I was given it to hurry things along.
All in all this was a fun read with some opportunity for improvement regarding pacing and making us work a little harder for some of the information, as well as how the information is given to us (sometimes it felt out of necessity and without as much care in the delivery). In saying that, I am genuinely really happy I pushed through and would recommend this book for anyone who loves a good pirate adventure and a little chaos.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy
This was a cute book with a few goofy ideas in a magical world where a cat turns into a pirate and the princess is cursed. The book starts with Hyacinth ordinary life in Toronto being thrown into chaos when she finds out that it isn't her life at all and that she's been on the run from her family for ten years. And her cat is not just a cat but also a pirate who is keeping her safe.
The book starts off a bit slow but then gets going around the middle, only to slow down a bit at the end. It's not boring but its pacing is rather uneven. There is a romance involved but it's not a romance story. And it feels kind of weird but the ending kind of makes things right, in a way. The magical world is different than anything I've seen, and it works although I don't feel like it's solid. Still,
the overall book in very enjoyable and should be entertaining for those looking for a fantasy adventure, with a cat pirate and magic.
Thank you to BookSirens and the writer for providing an advanced reading copy. I've provided my opinions under no obligation.
The book starts off a bit slow but then gets going around the middle, only to slow down a bit at the end. It's not boring but its pacing is rather uneven. There is a romance involved but it's not a romance story. And it feels kind of weird but the ending kind of makes things right, in a way. The magical world is different than anything I've seen, and it works although I don't feel like it's solid. Still,
the overall book in very enjoyable and should be entertaining for those looking for a fantasy adventure, with a cat pirate and magic.
Thank you to BookSirens and the writer for providing an advanced reading copy. I've provided my opinions under no obligation.
March 17, 2026
A pirate who is also a talking cat? Sign me up! The fantasy in The Convenient Curse is so absurdly whimsical that, for the first half of the book, I was convinced the entire thing was a dream. The story operates on “dream logic”, magic marbles hold memories and you have to pay if you eat pink bananas.
Hyacinth wakes up one random day in the bedchamber of a mysterious boat with no memory of how she arrived or even who she is. The captain of this boat is Max, a swashbuckling pirate who is also her cat.
Despite being a cat, Max is such a gentleman throughout the whole story. Absolutely cute and heartwarming. Both characters are deeply devoted to each other, sharing a loyal bond that only a girl and her cat could have (pun intended).
This book is so unpredictable, especially the ending, which completely took me by surprise. In retrospect, it’s the most wholesome ending a story like this could have.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hyacinth wakes up one random day in the bedchamber of a mysterious boat with no memory of how she arrived or even who she is. The captain of this boat is Max, a swashbuckling pirate who is also her cat.
Despite being a cat, Max is such a gentleman throughout the whole story. Absolutely cute and heartwarming. Both characters are deeply devoted to each other, sharing a loyal bond that only a girl and her cat could have (pun intended).
This book is so unpredictable, especially the ending, which completely took me by surprise. In retrospect, it’s the most wholesome ending a story like this could have.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story opens with a sense of mystery as Hyacinth finds herself aboard a boat, unsure how she arrived there. Much of the early narrative centers on her curse and the inheritance tied to it, drawing the reader into her confusion and determination to understand what it truly means. As the layers unfold, the bigger picture gradually becomes clearer, which made the journey feel immersive and engaging.
Highlights:
- Hyacinth’s bond with her cat Max.
- A richly creative magical world with some genuinely surprising twists.
Overall Impressions:
This is charming and imaginative fantasy that blends whimsy with emotional depth. At its core, it’s a story about loyalty, choice, and breaking away. The slow-burn pacing rewards patience, and once the central storyline clicks into place, the adventure becomes hard to set aside. A cozy, magical read with heart.
Highlights:
- Hyacinth’s bond with her cat Max.
- A richly creative magical world with some genuinely surprising twists.
Overall Impressions:
This is charming and imaginative fantasy that blends whimsy with emotional depth. At its core, it’s a story about loyalty, choice, and breaking away. The slow-burn pacing rewards patience, and once the central storyline clicks into place, the adventure becomes hard to set aside. A cozy, magical read with heart.
February 25, 2026
An orange cat, a bag of magic marbles, an enchanted boat, and a woman with no memory of how she got there.
This story blends magic, political conflict, and a young girl's desire to break free of convention, especially when that convention dictates that she let go of what she cares about most.
The Convenient Curse is endearing, whimsical and can sometimes just be straight up camp, with how the magic system works and how they wield magic to get out of tricky situations. The characters are lovable and I would ride or die for Max.
While I struggled a bit with the pacing of the story, it still hits the emotional points we need.
The ending also was really cute and I appreciated it.
It's a fun, cozy read filled with magic, whimsy, and orange cat shenanigans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Book Sirens
This story blends magic, political conflict, and a young girl's desire to break free of convention, especially when that convention dictates that she let go of what she cares about most.
The Convenient Curse is endearing, whimsical and can sometimes just be straight up camp, with how the magic system works and how they wield magic to get out of tricky situations. The characters are lovable and I would ride or die for Max.
While I struggled a bit with the pacing of the story, it still hits the emotional points we need.
The ending also was really cute and I appreciated it.
It's a fun, cozy read filled with magic, whimsy, and orange cat shenanigans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Book Sirens
March 25, 2026
This book is so hard to describe. My best description is that it’s like the fae version of Alice in Wonderland… but kind of pirate-themed… on steroids 🤣
I can’t get enough of this unique plot and world building, their various fae groups, their vastly different characteristics, the lands they live on, and how this curse works. It’s so different from anything I’ve ever read.
This whole book is full of adventure, mystery, action, and an unexpected budding romance, while still managing to be cozy. I found myself reading slower than I usually do bc there was just so much to take in, so much to this world, and I just loved every moment of it.
Definitely a 4.5 ⭐️ read for me. I love its originality.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I can’t get enough of this unique plot and world building, their various fae groups, their vastly different characteristics, the lands they live on, and how this curse works. It’s so different from anything I’ve ever read.
This whole book is full of adventure, mystery, action, and an unexpected budding romance, while still managing to be cozy. I found myself reading slower than I usually do bc there was just so much to take in, so much to this world, and I just loved every moment of it.
Definitely a 4.5 ⭐️ read for me. I love its originality.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a bit of a struggle for me to get through...
I absolutely adored the characters of Hyacinth and Max and their strange companionship. For most of the first half of the book, it's rather confusing due to the FMC's mental confusion and as she is figuring out what happened to her memory. I'm not a big fan of the obvious political content. I would've preferred it to be toned down or in a more metaphorical sense. Many of the politics within the story didn't make sense for the world building, the types of characters, or the plot of the overall story. It brought me out of the story many times and I had to take several breaks and come back to it. It definitely wasn't for me but I hope others enjoy it.
I absolutely adored the characters of Hyacinth and Max and their strange companionship. For most of the first half of the book, it's rather confusing due to the FMC's mental confusion and as she is figuring out what happened to her memory. I'm not a big fan of the obvious political content. I would've preferred it to be toned down or in a more metaphorical sense. Many of the politics within the story didn't make sense for the world building, the types of characters, or the plot of the overall story. It brought me out of the story many times and I had to take several breaks and come back to it. It definitely wasn't for me but I hope others enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will preface this by saying that I am not a fantasy fan in the slightest. I wanted to read this book in an effort to branch out and diversify, and I am SO GLAD that I did!! This was a wonderful, well-written book. I couldn’t put it down! Our main character wakes up at the start of the book with no memory of who she is or where she comes from - and that made the fantasy world so much easier to digest, because I was learning along with her! This book had so much heart, and everything wrapped up in a way that was extremely satisfying.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
When Hyacinth unwittingly follows her cat Max through a portal to another world called LaWardia, she never expects him to turn into a pirate with a ship sailing between some very strange destinations…….
Being owned by two cats myself, the cat was the main attraction to this story, but did I enjoy it? I’m really not sure. It was well written with some interesting characters, but although it did contain some adult themes, at times it was very like a children’s book too. I struggled to get through the first half of the book, but there was a good ending which redeemed it for me 🐈⬛
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Being owned by two cats myself, the cat was the main attraction to this story, but did I enjoy it? I’m really not sure. It was well written with some interesting characters, but although it did contain some adult themes, at times it was very like a children’s book too. I struggled to get through the first half of the book, but there was a good ending which redeemed it for me 🐈⬛
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed this as a pirate fantasy novel, it had that element that I was expecting from a description, it had that fantasy concept and was engaged from start to finish. I was hooked with the journey and how well the characters were used to tell the storyline. I enjoyed getting into the adventure element and how everything was used to tell the story it needed to. Jendra Berri was able to create something that worked in the genre and characters and was glad I was able to read this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 5, 2026
loved it !! love Hyacinth and Max... this is their story... a fun fast paced action packed rom/com drama... set in the whimsical land of LaWardia.... Hyacinth lives a boring life until, Max her cat tricks her into going through a portal that leads to LaWardia... a magical whimsical land.. where Max is not a cat but, a pirate.. a very hot pirate... and Hyacinth is not who she thought she was ... so good !!! so funny !!! and really so hot !!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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March 6, 2026I got the opportunity to read this book a head of time. I have to say I was hooked from the beginning. This was a 5 star read for me. I'm not much into fantasy but this was such a cute book. It was easy to follow along with. I loved everything about this book. I highly recommend this if you're looking for a fantasy book that's not overwhelming with building like some of the others out there. This is closed door. There is cussing but nothing over the top. There is a kiss but nothing spicy about it. This would be a cute book for young adults as well.
March 6, 2026
Thank you for the ARC.
A fairy tale-esque adventure that’s a mix of Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and a dash of Doctor Who.
Hyacinth and her cat, Max, set off on an adventure at sea. She has to slowly piece together her memory after she wakes up remembering nothing.
Featuring:
- A ship that’s bigger on the inside
- New species out of fairy tales on every island with their own set of rules and payment
- Magic
- A bit of a rough start for the first chapter or two and inconsistent pacing as Hyacinth remembers her past
- No spice
A fairy tale-esque adventure that’s a mix of Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and a dash of Doctor Who.
Hyacinth and her cat, Max, set off on an adventure at sea. She has to slowly piece together her memory after she wakes up remembering nothing.
Featuring:
- A ship that’s bigger on the inside
- New species out of fairy tales on every island with their own set of rules and payment
- Magic
- A bit of a rough start for the first chapter or two and inconsistent pacing as Hyacinth remembers her past
- No spice
Review of advance copy
What a weirdly cute and beautiful storyline about greed, love and cats, among others.
Hyacinth is kind of the unaware anti-heroine trying to piece together her past while surviving Brixies, Fae, Pixies and Sprites in her present. Thank goodness for dragons, magic, friends and Max!
And a strange but powerful, unexpected ending.
Four stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hyacinth is kind of the unaware anti-heroine trying to piece together her past while surviving Brixies, Fae, Pixies and Sprites in her present. Thank goodness for dragons, magic, friends and Max!
And a strange but powerful, unexpected ending.
Four stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2026
The Convenient Curse was a fun, mostly cozy fantasy read that was entertaining from start to finish! I really loved the magic system—it was a really unique idea.
I loved all of the magical creatures in it, and the FMC was a relatable character. And of course the cat!! My boy cat is such a love so it’s not a stretch to imagine him being a Max-type human.
Thank you to BookSirens and author Jendra Berri for the chance to read this e-ARC!
I loved all of the magical creatures in it, and the FMC was a relatable character. And of course the cat!! My boy cat is such a love so it’s not a stretch to imagine him being a Max-type human.
Thank you to BookSirens and author Jendra Berri for the chance to read this e-ARC!
March 1, 2026
I really dont have much to say about this book other than I really enjoyed it. There was drama and unraveling of secrets and mysteries with a mix of fantasy and coziness which I really loved. There were moments I struggled but I think that was mostly to do with my mood. But even with me feeling a bit exhausted, I couldn't put this book down
March 7, 2026
A lovely cosy fantasy. Alice in Wonderland vibes but a bit more mature. I liked the way the story unfolded- there were a couple of times I thought we’d learned “the thing” and wasn’t sure how there was so much book left- only to turn the page and find out it wasn’t really “the thing” and the story just kept getting more intriguing.
March 7, 2026
The Convenient Curse by Jendra Berri is a great fantasy. The story is entertaining, interesting, enjoyable, funny, cozy, fun, and more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2026
A Cozy Adventure with Sharp Edges: The Convenient Curse by Jendra Berri
Some books feel like slipping into a well-worn sweater. The Convenient Curse feels like that… except the sweater occasionally whispers secrets and nudges you toward adventure.
From the start, Jendra Berri drops us into a world that looks calm on the surface but hums with quiet magic. We follow Hyacinth, an unexpectedly relatable main character whose life takes a sharp turn the moment her cat turns out to be far more than a cat. And honestly? That reveal alone hooked me. Talking animal companions can go either way, but Max is written with just enough attitude and mystery to avoid being gimmicky. He’s funny, yes — but also unsettling in the way he always seems to know more than he’s saying.
What I loved most about this book is its tone. It’s whimsical without being fluffy, cozy without being dull. The magic doesn’t explode off the page; it seeps in. Curses, enchanted objects, and hidden rules of the world are introduced gradually, giving the story a steady, confident pace. Nothing feels rushed, but nothing drags either.
Hyacinth’s journey isn’t just about magic — it’s about adjustment. Watching her navigate danger, responsibility, and a destiny she never asked for feels grounded and human. The stakes build quietly, and before you realize it, you’re invested not just in what happens next, but in who she’s becoming.
The worldbuilding deserves a mention, too. Berri crafts a setting that feels lived-in, with touches of humor and bureaucracy that make the fantasy feel oddly familiar. Something is charming about a magical world where consequences exist, and systems matter — even when curses are involved.
By the time I reached the end, I wasn’t left with explosive cliffhangers, but with something better: curiosity. The kind that lingers. The kind that makes you want to return to the world, spend more time with the characters, and see how the “convenient” parts of this curse might unravel.
Final thoughts: The Convenient Curse is perfect for readers who enjoy cozy fantasy with depth — a story that smiles at you while quietly tightening its grip. It’s thoughtful, imaginative, and just sharp enough to keep things interesting.
And yes… I would absolutely trust the cat. Probably a mistake
Some books feel like slipping into a well-worn sweater. The Convenient Curse feels like that… except the sweater occasionally whispers secrets and nudges you toward adventure.
From the start, Jendra Berri drops us into a world that looks calm on the surface but hums with quiet magic. We follow Hyacinth, an unexpectedly relatable main character whose life takes a sharp turn the moment her cat turns out to be far more than a cat. And honestly? That reveal alone hooked me. Talking animal companions can go either way, but Max is written with just enough attitude and mystery to avoid being gimmicky. He’s funny, yes — but also unsettling in the way he always seems to know more than he’s saying.
What I loved most about this book is its tone. It’s whimsical without being fluffy, cozy without being dull. The magic doesn’t explode off the page; it seeps in. Curses, enchanted objects, and hidden rules of the world are introduced gradually, giving the story a steady, confident pace. Nothing feels rushed, but nothing drags either.
Hyacinth’s journey isn’t just about magic — it’s about adjustment. Watching her navigate danger, responsibility, and a destiny she never asked for feels grounded and human. The stakes build quietly, and before you realize it, you’re invested not just in what happens next, but in who she’s becoming.
The worldbuilding deserves a mention, too. Berri crafts a setting that feels lived-in, with touches of humor and bureaucracy that make the fantasy feel oddly familiar. Something is charming about a magical world where consequences exist, and systems matter — even when curses are involved.
By the time I reached the end, I wasn’t left with explosive cliffhangers, but with something better: curiosity. The kind that lingers. The kind that makes you want to return to the world, spend more time with the characters, and see how the “convenient” parts of this curse might unravel.
Final thoughts: The Convenient Curse is perfect for readers who enjoy cozy fantasy with depth — a story that smiles at you while quietly tightening its grip. It’s thoughtful, imaginative, and just sharp enough to keep things interesting.
And yes… I would absolutely trust the cat. Probably a mistake
March 18, 2026
The Convenient Curse by Jendra Berri was such a fun and whimsical cozy fantasy read.
The story follows Hyacinth, whose quiet and lonely life takes a sudden turn when her cat Max tricks her into travelling through a portal to another world. Once they arrive in LaWardia, things only get stranger—because Max isn’t a cat there at all, but a pirate who clearly knows more about Hyacinth than he’s letting on.
From enchanted boats to mysterious magic marbles and island-hopping adventures, the world of LaWardia felt playful, imaginative, and easy to sink into. I especially enjoyed the writing style. It was immersive and flowed well, making the story feel light, magical, and cozy while still keeping the plot moving.
The blend of mystery about Hyacinth’s true identity, family secrets, ancient magic, and the growing connection between her and Max kept me curious about where the story was going.
If you enjoy cozy fantasy with whimsical worldbuilding, magical discoveries, and a hint of adventure and romance, this is a really enjoyable read.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story follows Hyacinth, whose quiet and lonely life takes a sudden turn when her cat Max tricks her into travelling through a portal to another world. Once they arrive in LaWardia, things only get stranger—because Max isn’t a cat there at all, but a pirate who clearly knows more about Hyacinth than he’s letting on.
From enchanted boats to mysterious magic marbles and island-hopping adventures, the world of LaWardia felt playful, imaginative, and easy to sink into. I especially enjoyed the writing style. It was immersive and flowed well, making the story feel light, magical, and cozy while still keeping the plot moving.
The blend of mystery about Hyacinth’s true identity, family secrets, ancient magic, and the growing connection between her and Max kept me curious about where the story was going.
If you enjoy cozy fantasy with whimsical worldbuilding, magical discoveries, and a hint of adventure and romance, this is a really enjoyable read.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
The week I received this book, our household lost our venerable old kittycat. I was grieving hard and trying to find the right book to escape into.
Max and Hyacinth took me into their world and saved the me in a way that I could never have foreseen!
Magical lands, creatures and adventures are great for escapism, but it was the addition of a lost (but smart and morally-good) heroine and her cat/human Pirate Captain that won me completely. The plot is cunning and unfolds beautifully, with a sheer joy of exploration, battling tyranny and fighting for what's right that kept me turning the pages.
I admit to being somewhat worried as the story entered its final stages - would it stick the landing? - but it absolutely does.
Perfectly timed for me, but also perfectly told and with the vibes of a modern 'Labyrinth' for grown-ups. Hugely recommended, with grateful thanks.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
Max and Hyacinth took me into their world and saved the me in a way that I could never have foreseen!
Magical lands, creatures and adventures are great for escapism, but it was the addition of a lost (but smart and morally-good) heroine and her cat/human Pirate Captain that won me completely. The plot is cunning and unfolds beautifully, with a sheer joy of exploration, battling tyranny and fighting for what's right that kept me turning the pages.
I admit to being somewhat worried as the story entered its final stages - would it stick the landing? - but it absolutely does.
Perfectly timed for me, but also perfectly told and with the vibes of a modern 'Labyrinth' for grown-ups. Hugely recommended, with grateful thanks.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the publisher, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
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