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The Ballad of the Curse: The Labyrinth of the Damned Book One
- GenresFantasy
360 pages, Paperback
Published February 14, 2026
About the author
T.A. Crownover
1 book8 followersT.A Crownover is a first-time fantasy romance author, working on her debut series. She lives with her husband and their two fur children in Pennsylvania, where she was born and raised. T.A is a full-time nanny when she's not writing.
She loves crafting stories using her own experiences and life events, pulling inspiration from popular books, movies, and television
https://www.tacrownover.org
She loves crafting stories using her own experiences and life events, pulling inspiration from popular books, movies, and television
https://www.tacrownover.org
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 23, 2026
Apparently, all Elera needed was one peaceful week and the universe said, absolutely not. This woman cannot catch a break. Between losing so much, protecting Liora, being dragged into the fae world and then discovering that basically everyone has secrets, I was tired for her. I really liked Elera as a FMC. She’s stubborn, protective and definitely has a mouth on her when someone pushes the wrong button. Her love for Liora is such an important part of who she is and I appreciated that she never completely loses that part of herself even as everything around her changes.
Cal was definitely the character who had me the most emotionally conflicted. The slow burn between him and Elera worked for me because there was actual tension and uncertainty before things finally shifted. I liked watching their relationship grow through the little moments rather than having them suddenly decide they were obsessed with each other after three conversations. And yes, that reveal at the end had me sitting there like EXCUSE ME??? WE’RE DOING THIS NOW?!
But then one chapter came along and basically threw my feelings into a wood chipper. Cal keeping the truth about Haldorin’s plans from Elera completely changed how I looked at their relationship. I understood that there was more to his side of things, especially after everything he tried to explain but I also understood why Elera felt betrayed. Girl had every right to be furious.
And then Fenmar. I was NOT okay. His friendship with Elera had become one of my favorite relationships in the book and his decision to protect her was devastating. This reopened a wound caused by another book, it genuinely hurt, especially because he still managed to sneak in their little bit of banter when everything was falling apart. I wanted to hug Elera, scream at Cal and personally fight Haldorin. My emotional support was nowhere to be found.
I did have some issues, though. I wanted more explanation around the magic, the history of the fae and some of the bigger mysteries surrounding Haldorin and Nimara. At times, things moved faster than I wanted, especially toward the end. I also guessed a few things before they were revealed, so not every twist completely surprised me. But honestly? I still had FUN. The banter, the tension, the secrets, the fae politics, the Labyrinth, the questionable men making questionable decisions… give me the next book immediately.
And that final reveal about Elera’s connection to… (you need to read the book to find out to who)? Yeah. We’re definitely not done here.
Final thoughts: Fenmar deserved better. I will be accepting no arguments at this time. 😭
Cal was definitely the character who had me the most emotionally conflicted. The slow burn between him and Elera worked for me because there was actual tension and uncertainty before things finally shifted. I liked watching their relationship grow through the little moments rather than having them suddenly decide they were obsessed with each other after three conversations. And yes, that reveal at the end had me sitting there like EXCUSE ME??? WE’RE DOING THIS NOW?!
But then one chapter came along and basically threw my feelings into a wood chipper. Cal keeping the truth about Haldorin’s plans from Elera completely changed how I looked at their relationship. I understood that there was more to his side of things, especially after everything he tried to explain but I also understood why Elera felt betrayed. Girl had every right to be furious.
And then Fenmar. I was NOT okay. His friendship with Elera had become one of my favorite relationships in the book and his decision to protect her was devastating. This reopened a wound caused by another book, it genuinely hurt, especially because he still managed to sneak in their little bit of banter when everything was falling apart. I wanted to hug Elera, scream at Cal and personally fight Haldorin. My emotional support was nowhere to be found.
I did have some issues, though. I wanted more explanation around the magic, the history of the fae and some of the bigger mysteries surrounding Haldorin and Nimara. At times, things moved faster than I wanted, especially toward the end. I also guessed a few things before they were revealed, so not every twist completely surprised me. But honestly? I still had FUN. The banter, the tension, the secrets, the fae politics, the Labyrinth, the questionable men making questionable decisions… give me the next book immediately.
And that final reveal about Elera’s connection to… (you need to read the book to find out to who)? Yeah. We’re definitely not done here.
Final thoughts: Fenmar deserved better. I will be accepting no arguments at this time. 😭
Review of advance copy received from Author
If ACOTAR, Beauty and the Beast, and Quicksilver had a baby, it would be this book. It had elements of the classic romantasy vibes but had its own spin to it. I enjoyed the writing style immensely. The world-building was fairly solid and easy to understand. Overall, it was a fairly good book.
The big winners: I enjoyed Elera as a main character. She was feisty and protective of those she loves which was endearing. She did seem to be short-sighted at times which could be frustrating but admittedly, she was often working with less than ideal information so it was forgivable. Our eventual MMC was the one I was rooting for from the start. He was serious and well intentioned and actually had the most depth of any character in the book in my opinion. As a couple, I appreciated the witty banter and sarcasm and the spice was well done. A solid 2 out of 5 on the spice scale with lots of yearning leading up to it. The supporting cast was likeable and memorable as well which I enjoyed.
For the cons: The villain seemed a bit off. He had this huge scheme for the entirety of the book and yet didn’t see his own gaping failures (i.e. his plan would never work based on his behavior to the FMC). I’m still not sure if that was intentional or just a villain who was batting above his pay grade but it grated on me a bit. He may gain more depth in the second book though so I have hopes that he may have more depth in future installments. The other con is just that it seemed so reminiscent of so many other books I’ve read. I predicted the plot really early in the book so when the big reveal happened, it was a bit anticlimactic. I felt it could be a bit more original but maybe that will be stronger in the next book.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. I will absolutely read the sequel when it's released and I have high hopes that with the strong writing, world-building, and likeable characters that the next installment may be more original. 4 stars overall.
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The big winners: I enjoyed Elera as a main character. She was feisty and protective of those she loves which was endearing. She did seem to be short-sighted at times which could be frustrating but admittedly, she was often working with less than ideal information so it was forgivable. Our eventual MMC was the one I was rooting for from the start. He was serious and well intentioned and actually had the most depth of any character in the book in my opinion. As a couple, I appreciated the witty banter and sarcasm and the spice was well done. A solid 2 out of 5 on the spice scale with lots of yearning leading up to it. The supporting cast was likeable and memorable as well which I enjoyed.
For the cons: The villain seemed a bit off. He had this huge scheme for the entirety of the book and yet didn’t see his own gaping failures (i.e. his plan would never work based on his behavior to the FMC). I’m still not sure if that was intentional or just a villain who was batting above his pay grade but it grated on me a bit. He may gain more depth in the second book though so I have hopes that he may have more depth in future installments. The other con is just that it seemed so reminiscent of so many other books I’ve read. I predicted the plot really early in the book so when the big reveal happened, it was a bit anticlimactic. I felt it could be a bit more original but maybe that will be stronger in the next book.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book. I will absolutely read the sequel when it's released and I have high hopes that with the strong writing, world-building, and likeable characters that the next installment may be more original. 4 stars overall.
I received this book as an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Ballad of the Curse
This book took its time with me—and I’ll be honest, my attention struggled at first. The beginning is slow and atmospheric, heavy on setup. I kept picturing Skyrim-level fantasy and couldn’t quite tell where the story was going, which made the early chapters feel uncertain.
But then… it grabbed me.
The banter started landing. The tension sharpened. The kidnapping took a turn, and the hints that her captors weren’t human became impossible to ignore. When the fae reveal happened, I felt vindicated—and fully hooked.
What I loved most is that for a long time, I genuinely couldn’t predict the plot or the romance. The Ballad of the Curse plays with expectations in the best way. You think you know who the love interest will be… and then the story quietly says no.
The king is cocky, rude, and tyrant-coded—morally gray and dangerous—but the true slow burn belongs to his head of arms. And that choice is perfection. This is very much a reverse Beauty and the Beast: the FMC isn’t there to soften a monster king, but to see—and be seen by—the weapon who serves him. The MMC is damaged, controlled, and deeply restrained, and the tension between him and the FMC is painful in the best way. Training turns into trust. Trust turns into something intimate and earned.
The FMC is no helpless damsel. She fights, adapts, and grows into her strength, and what makes the romance work so well is that they save each other—emotionally and physically. That mutual healing slow burn is my weakness, and this book delivered.
By the end, I was completely entranced. What started slow became dark, immersive, and addictive. I want more of this fae universe. I have been kidnapped—and I do not wish to be returned.
The Ballad of the Curse
This book took its time with me—and I’ll be honest, my attention struggled at first. The beginning is slow and atmospheric, heavy on setup. I kept picturing Skyrim-level fantasy and couldn’t quite tell where the story was going, which made the early chapters feel uncertain.
But then… it grabbed me.
The banter started landing. The tension sharpened. The kidnapping took a turn, and the hints that her captors weren’t human became impossible to ignore. When the fae reveal happened, I felt vindicated—and fully hooked.
What I loved most is that for a long time, I genuinely couldn’t predict the plot or the romance. The Ballad of the Curse plays with expectations in the best way. You think you know who the love interest will be… and then the story quietly says no.
The king is cocky, rude, and tyrant-coded—morally gray and dangerous—but the true slow burn belongs to his head of arms. And that choice is perfection. This is very much a reverse Beauty and the Beast: the FMC isn’t there to soften a monster king, but to see—and be seen by—the weapon who serves him. The MMC is damaged, controlled, and deeply restrained, and the tension between him and the FMC is painful in the best way. Training turns into trust. Trust turns into something intimate and earned.
The FMC is no helpless damsel. She fights, adapts, and grows into her strength, and what makes the romance work so well is that they save each other—emotionally and physically. That mutual healing slow burn is my weakness, and this book delivered.
By the end, I was completely entranced. What started slow became dark, immersive, and addictive. I want more of this fae universe. I have been kidnapped—and I do not wish to be returned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2026
A Ballad Of The Curse is book 1 of The Labyrinth Of The Damned series in the romantasy genre.
🔥Slow-Burn🔥
🖤Enemies to Lovers🖤
✔️Fallen God ✔️
✨Banter✨
⛓️Forced proximity⛓️
2/5 🌶️
Elera, our feisty human FMC, makes a deal with fae worriers to save her sister who is her only remaining family after a fire claimed the lives of her parents.
In the fae realm she does everything she can to survive with the goal to escape. Elera does not intend to make friends along the way, or feel an urge towards one of our MMCs.
After discovering some hard truths and falling for one of the main character, she faces a deadly trial to save him and those trapped in the kingdom.
I personally loved the writing style of the author! World building was done well, I just wish there was a bit more detail. The characters are easy to connect with and pull you into their story. Banter and sass present in every chapter! Broody fae males, secrets and hard choices.
I do feel the pacing of the book was a bit rushed. Don’t get me wrong, the plot made sense and timeline was followed, I just wish some chapters would have been longer with more details. Especially the trials at the end.
I’m still routing for my favorite MMC, Elera ended the book with discovering he had kept something secret and I feel she didn’t understand he really had been telling her all along with little clues and actions.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely read book 2! The cliffhanger was brutal! 😅
🔥Slow-Burn🔥
🖤Enemies to Lovers🖤
✔️Fallen God ✔️
✨Banter✨
⛓️Forced proximity⛓️
2/5 🌶️
Elera, our feisty human FMC, makes a deal with fae worriers to save her sister who is her only remaining family after a fire claimed the lives of her parents.
In the fae realm she does everything she can to survive with the goal to escape. Elera does not intend to make friends along the way, or feel an urge towards one of our MMCs.
After discovering some hard truths and falling for one of the main character, she faces a deadly trial to save him and those trapped in the kingdom.
I personally loved the writing style of the author! World building was done well, I just wish there was a bit more detail. The characters are easy to connect with and pull you into their story. Banter and sass present in every chapter! Broody fae males, secrets and hard choices.
I do feel the pacing of the book was a bit rushed. Don’t get me wrong, the plot made sense and timeline was followed, I just wish some chapters would have been longer with more details. Especially the trials at the end.
I’m still routing for my favorite MMC, Elera ended the book with discovering he had kept something secret and I feel she didn’t understand he really had been telling her all along with little clues and actions.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely read book 2! The cliffhanger was brutal! 😅
July 15, 2026
Thank you, T.A Crownover, for the ARC!
The first couple of pages absolutely pull you in with a tragic accident that happens to Elara, setting up the rest of the story to help you understand how she is the way she is. Elara devotes her life to protecting her older sister, doing whatever she has to in order to make sure she is safe. When the Fae come to their village, Elara sacrifices herself in order to protect her. The bond the two share is incredible, and I do wish we got to see more of that within this story; however, the pieces we got gave a good standpoint of Elara’s devotion.
The world-building of this book could have been a bit better, but it painted a pretty good picture of the places the scenes took place. I do hope we get to see a bit more in the next book. The magic system was really confusing to me; it is not really explained, just glanced over that the Fae have magic from the gods, but it does not go into depth about who has what type of magic and the things they can do.
The slow burn was absolutely incredible to me; it did not feel rushed, and Elara and our MMC truly had to build trust within each other before getting together.
I do feel the trial was a bit rushed; I wished it was more fleshed out, and Elara had taken longer to come to terms with her past. The ending was really good; it does end on a cliffhanger, and I cannot wait for the next book.
The first couple of pages absolutely pull you in with a tragic accident that happens to Elara, setting up the rest of the story to help you understand how she is the way she is. Elara devotes her life to protecting her older sister, doing whatever she has to in order to make sure she is safe. When the Fae come to their village, Elara sacrifices herself in order to protect her. The bond the two share is incredible, and I do wish we got to see more of that within this story; however, the pieces we got gave a good standpoint of Elara’s devotion.
The world-building of this book could have been a bit better, but it painted a pretty good picture of the places the scenes took place. I do hope we get to see a bit more in the next book. The magic system was really confusing to me; it is not really explained, just glanced over that the Fae have magic from the gods, but it does not go into depth about who has what type of magic and the things they can do.
The slow burn was absolutely incredible to me; it did not feel rushed, and Elara and our MMC truly had to build trust within each other before getting together.
I do feel the trial was a bit rushed; I wished it was more fleshed out, and Elara had taken longer to come to terms with her past. The ending was really good; it does end on a cliffhanger, and I cannot wait for the next book.
August 19, 2026
This was a HARD read for me personally; DNF at 53%. The scene setting and description writing was great. A lot of the dialogue felt forced and I was so confused on what was happening. A random fae king randomly picked her (why did they specifically ask for the older one?) for no reason, and then threaten to keep her there or else? Like it just makes no sense. I can kind of tell where it’s heading at this point where the king is an awful dictator and sexist guy that they probably overthrow, but it’s getting muddled by the weird tensions. There’s so much going on between the protagonist and the king, Cal, and Fenmar, and they all just seem so bipolar with her. And then all of a sudden Cal just randomly likes her? They spend five minutes together and all of a sudden “Something had changed between us” (50%). And despite trying to send a letter, we are halfway through the book with literally no context on what’s happening to the village, the sister, why she was kidnapped other than the reason “she was saved”. Like I think this book has a lot of potential, but it’s missing some really key contexts. Something more than “this girl gets kidnapped but falls in love and saves everyone”.
I’m sorry for the harsher review, but I just completely disagree with all the other reviews on how perfect and great it is the whole time.
I’m sorry for the harsher review, but I just completely disagree with all the other reviews on how perfect and great it is the whole time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A thoroughly intriguing Romantasy, full of action, adventure, intrigue and mystery!
Elera forced to look after her sick sister due to an unfortunate turn of events, has not had an easy life. Faced with hardship at every turn, she’s found herself being forced to beg, borrow and steal just to survive. When Elera is kidnapped from all she’s ever known and thrust into the magical world of Eldoria, Elera encounters a new kind of hardship she had never even considered before.
Elera is one feisty character. Not afraid to speak her mind, much to her detriment at times. Kind hearted, loyal and determined to get back to her sister.
As Elera learns more about her new ‘home’ she encounters other intriguing males along the way. I loved the friendship she developed with some and the angst, swooning Elera felt with others. That was just top notch for me, when it exploded it certainly went with a bang!!
"Good, because what I'm about to do to you isn't for beginners,"
A great first in the series, so many loose ends I can’t wait to see where we head to next!
I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author which I most definitely enjoyed!
Elera forced to look after her sick sister due to an unfortunate turn of events, has not had an easy life. Faced with hardship at every turn, she’s found herself being forced to beg, borrow and steal just to survive. When Elera is kidnapped from all she’s ever known and thrust into the magical world of Eldoria, Elera encounters a new kind of hardship she had never even considered before.
Elera is one feisty character. Not afraid to speak her mind, much to her detriment at times. Kind hearted, loyal and determined to get back to her sister.
As Elera learns more about her new ‘home’ she encounters other intriguing males along the way. I loved the friendship she developed with some and the angst, swooning Elera felt with others. That was just top notch for me, when it exploded it certainly went with a bang!!
"Good, because what I'm about to do to you isn't for beginners,"
A great first in the series, so many loose ends I can’t wait to see where we head to next!
I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author which I most definitely enjoyed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this as an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
First of all, I had an audible GASP within the first 4 pages. I had to message T.A. immediately, are you for real? 😲
The writing is smooth, seamless, pulls you in, and flows so beautifully.
This story will pull at your heart strings. The love that Elara, our FMC has for her sister is truly immeasurable. The challenges that Elara faces and her strength, wit, and ferocity... incredible.
The pacing was great throughout, with highs and lows at just the right points to keep you locked in.
The angst. The longing...but she makes you wait. Its the perfect amount of slow burn because, there's the scene. The scene where you're going to kick your feet and giggle like a school girl. Kingfisher who? 😏
The labyrinth was super creative and spoke to our FMCs determination and strength.
Wait. There's more! (IKR) Plot twists at the end that will make you smile... and possibly cry.
Read it and see. No spoilers here!
Well done. Absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
First of all, I had an audible GASP within the first 4 pages. I had to message T.A. immediately, are you for real? 😲
The writing is smooth, seamless, pulls you in, and flows so beautifully.
This story will pull at your heart strings. The love that Elara, our FMC has for her sister is truly immeasurable. The challenges that Elara faces and her strength, wit, and ferocity... incredible.
The pacing was great throughout, with highs and lows at just the right points to keep you locked in.
The angst. The longing...but she makes you wait. Its the perfect amount of slow burn because, there's the scene. The scene where you're going to kick your feet and giggle like a school girl. Kingfisher who? 😏
The labyrinth was super creative and spoke to our FMCs determination and strength.
Wait. There's more! (IKR) Plot twists at the end that will make you smile... and possibly cry.
Read it and see. No spoilers here!
Well done. Absolutely cannot wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off thank you to T.A Crownover for the advance copy in exchange for a honest review.
The Ballad of the Curse pulled me in and did not let go. Once I got settled into the world, I was completely hooked. I will say the first chapter really hit me in the feels….
Elera is such a strong FMC. She’s fierce, loyal, stubborn, and willing to sacrifice everything for the people she loves. I loved watching her grow while still holding onto that fire inside her.
And the enemies-to-lovers tension?? The banter?? The build-up?? I was stressed. I was swooning. I was talking to the book.
The world felt rich and alive, but not in a way that made it hard to follow. It just pulls you in. There’s action, angst, magic, and that slow, drawn-out romance that makes you wait… and wait… and somehow makes it even better.
The ending left me both satisfied and desperate for book two.
If you love romantasy with strong character growth, tension you can feel in your chest, and a slow burn that actually burns… this is it.
The Ballad of the Curse pulled me in and did not let go. Once I got settled into the world, I was completely hooked. I will say the first chapter really hit me in the feels….
Elera is such a strong FMC. She’s fierce, loyal, stubborn, and willing to sacrifice everything for the people she loves. I loved watching her grow while still holding onto that fire inside her.
And the enemies-to-lovers tension?? The banter?? The build-up?? I was stressed. I was swooning. I was talking to the book.
The world felt rich and alive, but not in a way that made it hard to follow. It just pulls you in. There’s action, angst, magic, and that slow, drawn-out romance that makes you wait… and wait… and somehow makes it even better.
The ending left me both satisfied and desperate for book two.
If you love romantasy with strong character growth, tension you can feel in your chest, and a slow burn that actually burns… this is it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Ballad of the Curse by T.A. Crownover is everything an enemies-to-lovers story should be, and more. From the very first page, it pulls you in with its gripping pace and refuses to let go. Every chapter flows seamlessly, building tension that keeps you turning the pages long after you meant to stop.Elera’s journey is heartfelt and powerful. Watching her grow, struggle, and ultimately learn through the final chapters gives this story real emotional depth. The dynamic between the characters is electric, brimming with conflict, chemistry, and perfectly executed slow-burn romance.The ending was absolutely fantastic, satisfying yet full of questions that make you desperate for book two. T.A. Crownover has crafted something truly special here. If you love well-written fantasy with sharp tension and emotional payoff, The Ballad of the Curse is a must-read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy - thank you!
I absolutely devoured this book! I couldn't put it down! The main character was super feisty and totally stubborn, but in the best of ways. I really respected the love and bond she had for her sister. Without giving any spoilers, I also enjoyed every single character. They were all so well written and we learned just enough about them to be satisfied with the info given in the first book. The love interest is just my kinda man haha. I absolutely loved their story and how they ended up together. I wish the labyrinth scene at the end would have been a bit longer, but other than that, this was a 5 stars through and through. Beautiful and immersive writing all the way through. I cannot wait for book 2!!
I absolutely devoured this book! I couldn't put it down! The main character was super feisty and totally stubborn, but in the best of ways. I really respected the love and bond she had for her sister. Without giving any spoilers, I also enjoyed every single character. They were all so well written and we learned just enough about them to be satisfied with the info given in the first book. The love interest is just my kinda man haha. I absolutely loved their story and how they ended up together. I wish the labyrinth scene at the end would have been a bit longer, but other than that, this was a 5 stars through and through. Beautiful and immersive writing all the way through. I cannot wait for book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m a newer fantasy reader, but I truly loved this book. It pulled me in right from the start and kept me engaged the entire time.
Elera was a fantastic FMC. She’s fiercely protective of her sister and willing to do whatever it takes to keep her safe, even if that means sacrificing herself. I also loved that she’s strong, independent, and neither needs nor wants anyone to protect her.
The story is a very slow burn, but it’s absolutely worth it. I’m already sad that I have to wait for the next book because I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC of this book!
Elera was a fantastic FMC. She’s fiercely protective of her sister and willing to do whatever it takes to keep her safe, even if that means sacrificing herself. I also loved that she’s strong, independent, and neither needs nor wants anyone to protect her.
The story is a very slow burn, but it’s absolutely worth it. I’m already sad that I have to wait for the next book because I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC of this book!
February 9, 2026
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy - thank you.
At first I could not get into the book because of all of the authors set up of the story. But once I got into it I couldn't put it down. The banter and the tension started and oh was it so good. The characters were all so well written and we learned just enough about them to be satisfied.
A Ballad Of The Curse is book 1 of The Labyrinth Of The Damned series in the romantasy genre.
Slow-Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Fallen God
Banter
Forced proximity
At first I could not get into the book because of all of the authors set up of the story. But once I got into it I couldn't put it down. The banter and the tension started and oh was it so good. The characters were all so well written and we learned just enough about them to be satisfied.
A Ballad Of The Curse is book 1 of The Labyrinth Of The Damned series in the romantasy genre.
Slow-Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Fallen God
Banter
Forced proximity
February 19, 2026
Thank you T.A. Crownover for this advance copy. I loved this book and can’t wait for book 2.
This is enemies-to-lovers/forced proximity, slow burn,action, the magic, world and sassy banter are so good.
🌶️🌶️
From the very first page, it pulls you in with its gripping pace and refuses to let go. Every chapter flows seamlessly, building tension that keeps you turning the pages.
Our human FMC Elera is strong, sassy, stubborn, loyal, and will do anything for those she loves.
The tension between our enemies to lovers was perfect.
I loved everything about this book.
This is enemies-to-lovers/forced proximity, slow burn,action, the magic, world and sassy banter are so good.
🌶️🌶️
From the very first page, it pulls you in with its gripping pace and refuses to let go. Every chapter flows seamlessly, building tension that keeps you turning the pages.
Our human FMC Elera is strong, sassy, stubborn, loyal, and will do anything for those she loves.
The tension between our enemies to lovers was perfect.
I loved everything about this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you mix beauty and the beast with quicksilver you have “The Ballad of the curse” by T.A crownover. Loved the main female character. She was feisty, willing to sacrifice herself to protect those she loved. Was rooting for the main male character to begin with. If you like action, romantasy, world building this book is for you. I can’t wait for book 2. T.A Crownover is a great writer and I hope all enjoy reading her new book. I highly recommend this book to romantasy readers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was sent an Arc copy for an honest review.
I rated this book a 4 star read.
I really enjoyed all the aspects in the book from the world building to the characters and everything inbetween.
it definetly was different from a few romantasy books ive read, but it was refreshing none less.
I look forward to reading more by the author.
I rated this book a 4 star read.
I really enjoyed all the aspects in the book from the world building to the characters and everything inbetween.
it definetly was different from a few romantasy books ive read, but it was refreshing none less.
I look forward to reading more by the author.
February 13, 2026
The Ballad of the Curse delivers fierce FMC energy, broody fae males, nonstop banter, and a slow burn that hurts so good. Loved Elera’s strength and the enemies-to-lovers tension. The world pulled me in, the ending felt a bit rushed, but that cliffhanger has me feral for book two.
April 11, 2026
I was literally hooked from the beginning of this book!! From the first page, the author captures your attention and she keeps it on every single page!! Everything about this book was a 5 star read!! Wow!
March 23, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐.95
i love the vibes of the classy romantasy vibes but it does have a spin off its own. I adore the world building alot. I love Elera. I cant wait till i read the next one in this series
i love the vibes of the classy romantasy vibes but it does have a spin off its own. I adore the world building alot. I love Elera. I cant wait till i read the next one in this series
June 19, 2026
If you lose everything in one night in the hungry flame - your parents , your home , everything you know and rely on . Will you come out of the flames whole enough , to support and take care of your only family member alive ? Because she did .
If enemy soldiers kill half of your village and attempt to kidnap your sister. Will you find in yourself enough strength , to make a bargain and to lie which is the eldest and take her place instead? She did .
If you are dragged in another realm where magic exists , where you need to make another bargain to protect your sister , your best friend , what remains of your village , without knowing what they want from you ?
Will you go into a cursed labyrinth to fight your worse nightmares, only to save a man you've known only for a couple weeks , but you know he is the right for you ?
If you want to know more , read the dark fantasy debut by T.A Crowner , for the power of family love , and how trauma can change . Very Stubborn FMC , dark martyr type of MMC , a beautiful tale of strong friendship connections . Solid 4 star read for me .
If enemy soldiers kill half of your village and attempt to kidnap your sister. Will you find in yourself enough strength , to make a bargain and to lie which is the eldest and take her place instead? She did .
If you are dragged in another realm where magic exists , where you need to make another bargain to protect your sister , your best friend , what remains of your village , without knowing what they want from you ?
Will you go into a cursed labyrinth to fight your worse nightmares, only to save a man you've known only for a couple weeks , but you know he is the right for you ?
If you want to know more , read the dark fantasy debut by T.A Crowner , for the power of family love , and how trauma can change . Very Stubborn FMC , dark martyr type of MMC , a beautiful tale of strong friendship connections . Solid 4 star read for me .
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