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Curse of the Moonflower
Cursed. Hunted. Coveted.
An ancient curse runs through Vessa Lemaire's veins—the gods have destined her to wed the banished vampire ruler of the Underworld, who will stop at nothing to seize his betrothed. She discovers this only days after the horrific death of her mother, forcing her to leave her shattered life behind.
For three years, she lives under the protection of a werewolf and his mate, an oracle. Until one day, a vision befalls the seer—a chance for her to find permanent asylum, right alongside the man who despises vampires most.
Axe Skornokovy is a soldier of vengeance, hell-bent on eliminating vampires and the powerful demigod from which they were sired. As Vessa tries to find her place among his pack of feuding wolves, she must keep her secrets close. She must come to terms with the fact that Axe is more than capable of turning on her, even as it grows difficult to ignore the tantalizing force which conspires to bring them together. For if they give into it, they will spark a war destined to bleed into the realm below.
An ancient curse runs through Vessa Lemaire's veins—the gods have destined her to wed the banished vampire ruler of the Underworld, who will stop at nothing to seize his betrothed. She discovers this only days after the horrific death of her mother, forcing her to leave her shattered life behind.
For three years, she lives under the protection of a werewolf and his mate, an oracle. Until one day, a vision befalls the seer—a chance for her to find permanent asylum, right alongside the man who despises vampires most.
Axe Skornokovy is a soldier of vengeance, hell-bent on eliminating vampires and the powerful demigod from which they were sired. As Vessa tries to find her place among his pack of feuding wolves, she must keep her secrets close. She must come to terms with the fact that Axe is more than capable of turning on her, even as it grows difficult to ignore the tantalizing force which conspires to bring them together. For if they give into it, they will spark a war destined to bleed into the realm below.
468 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 18, 2026
Thank you for the ARC copy of the Curse of the Moonflower. Well to say this is good is an understatement. I have sacrificed sleep for this book. I have been on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what was to come in the last section.
This book has all the best tropes and moments you kick your feet which includes who did this to you? F it moments 👀
I will be buying the physical copy of this book when it is released. If you like romatasy with fated mates, secrets, plot twist, found family then I highly recommend you read the Curse of the Moonflower. I fear this one will have me in a chokehold for a while. I will be talking about this for a while.
I need the next one already.
Excellent read!!!
🐺 Touch her and die
🐺 Mates
🐺 Prophecy
🐺 Slow burn
🐺 Vampires & lycan
🐺 Secrets
🐺 Hidden identity
🐺 Found family
🐺 The plot twists!!!!
This book has all the best tropes and moments you kick your feet which includes who did this to you? F it moments 👀
I will be buying the physical copy of this book when it is released. If you like romatasy with fated mates, secrets, plot twist, found family then I highly recommend you read the Curse of the Moonflower. I fear this one will have me in a chokehold for a while. I will be talking about this for a while.
I need the next one already.
Excellent read!!!
🐺 Touch her and die
🐺 Mates
🐺 Prophecy
🐺 Slow burn
🐺 Vampires & lycan
🐺 Secrets
🐺 Hidden identity
🐺 Found family
🐺 The plot twists!!!!
April 21, 2026
Im a bit disappointed in this story. Everything about it should have been a major hit. Unfortunately, it didnt sit right with me. The writing is simplistic and shallow, which isn't my issue. I could get past that and still enjoy the story. But for me, the biggest detriment was Vessa. She was god awful!! The way she treated Axe angered me so much. He deserved so much better in my opinion. Literally she is the worst. If it wasnt for her, I think this would have easily been 4 stars for me. I could not deal with her. There are good moments and good characters, like Axe and the cover is gorgeous. Im glad i picked it up even with its flaws.
June 11, 2026
Tropes & Themes
✨ Lycans, witches, and vampires
✨ Fish out of water FMC
✨ Mates
✨ Found family
✨ Touch her and die
✨ Secrets and curses
✨ Pack politics
✨ Light love triangle elements
✨ Plot twists
What’s This Story About?
After her mother's death, Vessa discovers that she is tied to an ancient curse and is being hunted by a banished vampire ruler who claims she is destined to be his bride. Thrust into a hidden world of wolves, witches, and vampires, she seeks refuge with a powerful alpha while uncovering dangerous secrets, navigating a mate bond, and fighting for control of her own fate.
What I Loved
Curse of the Moonflower hooked me from the very first chapter and kept me turning pages until the end. Sam Dorsett delivers an engaging paranormal world filled with danger, secrets, and high stakes, all while balancing supernatural politics and an emotional character journey.
The pacing kept me invested throughout. There always seemed to be a new revelation, attack, or twist waiting around the corner, which made this a very easy book to binge. Despite the large cast and expansive supernatural world, the worldbuilding felt approachable and never overwhelming.
The Romance
The romance between Vessa and Axe had several elements I typically enjoy. Axe is fiercely protective, deeply devoted, and absolutely gives off "who did this to you?" energy. I loved seeing his loyalty to both Vessa and his pack, and his willingness to give her space to process the mate bond rather than forcing the relationship forward.
Their connection develops against a backdrop of danger, political tension, and Vessa's struggle to find where she belongs. While I enjoyed Axe as a character and found myself rooting for him, I wanted a little more romantic tension and emotional buildup between the two of them. The foundation is there, but I would have loved to see more scenes focused on strengthening their connection before the relationship progressed.
Vessa's Journey
One of the strongest aspects of the story was Vessa's emotional journey. From losing her mother and leaving everything she knows behind to finding a new family and purpose, she endures a tremendous amount throughout the novel.
While I appreciated her resilience, I occasionally struggled to connect with some of her decisions and reactions. There were moments where her choices frustrated me, which created a bit of distance between me and her character. That said, her circumstances are incredibly difficult, and I am interested to see how she grows in future books.
The Dom Question
The one storyline that felt somewhat unclear to me involved Dom.
There are hints of a potential love triangle involving Vessa, Axe, and Dom, but the execution felt a little underdeveloped in this installment. Dom's feelings seem intense almost immediately, yet there is very little page time dedicated to building a meaningful connection between him and Vessa. Because of that, the emotional weight behind his feelings never fully landed for me.
I genuinely liked Dom as a character and often found myself appreciating how protective and supportive he was. At this point, though, I am much more interested in seeing him find his own story and eventual mate rather than becoming a long term third wheel in Vessa and Axe's relationship. I suspect this dynamic may be explored further in future books, so I am curious to see where the author takes it.
Final Thoughts
This was an impressive debut that delivered exactly the kind of paranormal romance atmosphere I enjoy. The combination of pack dynamics, supernatural politics, found family, dangerous enemies, and fated mates made for a highly entertaining read.
I instantly fell in love with Axe and his wolf pack, and I appreciated how easy it was to become immersed in the story without feeling bogged down by excessive worldbuilding or exposition.
While I would have liked stronger romantic development and more clarity surrounding the Dom storyline, I am invested in these characters and eager to see where the series goes next.
✨ Lycans, witches, and vampires
✨ Fish out of water FMC
✨ Mates
✨ Found family
✨ Touch her and die
✨ Secrets and curses
✨ Pack politics
✨ Light love triangle elements
✨ Plot twists
What’s This Story About?
After her mother's death, Vessa discovers that she is tied to an ancient curse and is being hunted by a banished vampire ruler who claims she is destined to be his bride. Thrust into a hidden world of wolves, witches, and vampires, she seeks refuge with a powerful alpha while uncovering dangerous secrets, navigating a mate bond, and fighting for control of her own fate.
What I Loved
Curse of the Moonflower hooked me from the very first chapter and kept me turning pages until the end. Sam Dorsett delivers an engaging paranormal world filled with danger, secrets, and high stakes, all while balancing supernatural politics and an emotional character journey.
The pacing kept me invested throughout. There always seemed to be a new revelation, attack, or twist waiting around the corner, which made this a very easy book to binge. Despite the large cast and expansive supernatural world, the worldbuilding felt approachable and never overwhelming.
The Romance
The romance between Vessa and Axe had several elements I typically enjoy. Axe is fiercely protective, deeply devoted, and absolutely gives off "who did this to you?" energy. I loved seeing his loyalty to both Vessa and his pack, and his willingness to give her space to process the mate bond rather than forcing the relationship forward.
Their connection develops against a backdrop of danger, political tension, and Vessa's struggle to find where she belongs. While I enjoyed Axe as a character and found myself rooting for him, I wanted a little more romantic tension and emotional buildup between the two of them. The foundation is there, but I would have loved to see more scenes focused on strengthening their connection before the relationship progressed.
Vessa's Journey
One of the strongest aspects of the story was Vessa's emotional journey. From losing her mother and leaving everything she knows behind to finding a new family and purpose, she endures a tremendous amount throughout the novel.
While I appreciated her resilience, I occasionally struggled to connect with some of her decisions and reactions. There were moments where her choices frustrated me, which created a bit of distance between me and her character. That said, her circumstances are incredibly difficult, and I am interested to see how she grows in future books.
The Dom Question
The one storyline that felt somewhat unclear to me involved Dom.
There are hints of a potential love triangle involving Vessa, Axe, and Dom, but the execution felt a little underdeveloped in this installment. Dom's feelings seem intense almost immediately, yet there is very little page time dedicated to building a meaningful connection between him and Vessa. Because of that, the emotional weight behind his feelings never fully landed for me.
I genuinely liked Dom as a character and often found myself appreciating how protective and supportive he was. At this point, though, I am much more interested in seeing him find his own story and eventual mate rather than becoming a long term third wheel in Vessa and Axe's relationship. I suspect this dynamic may be explored further in future books, so I am curious to see where the author takes it.
Final Thoughts
This was an impressive debut that delivered exactly the kind of paranormal romance atmosphere I enjoy. The combination of pack dynamics, supernatural politics, found family, dangerous enemies, and fated mates made for a highly entertaining read.
I instantly fell in love with Axe and his wolf pack, and I appreciated how easy it was to become immersed in the story without feeling bogged down by excessive worldbuilding or exposition.
While I would have liked stronger romantic development and more clarity surrounding the Dom storyline, I am invested in these characters and eager to see where the series goes next.
April 27, 2026
Wow Just Wow
I am stunned by this ending. I don’t even have words. This book had me in a chokehold from the beginning and I could not put it down. The pacing slowed a bit in the middle, but the last half of the book with the twists and betrayals was insane!
It reminds me just a little bit of Jennifer Armentrout’s Flesh and Fire series, but better.
Is it too early to ask when the next book comes out??? I know we are not done yet!!
I am stunned by this ending. I don’t even have words. This book had me in a chokehold from the beginning and I could not put it down. The pacing slowed a bit in the middle, but the last half of the book with the twists and betrayals was insane!
It reminds me just a little bit of Jennifer Armentrout’s Flesh and Fire series, but better.
Is it too early to ask when the next book comes out??? I know we are not done yet!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
First, I’d like to thank Sam for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
With that said, I take ARC duties seriously. I don’t DNF ARCs because that defeats the purpose. If you’re going to give meaningful feedback or a fair review, you need to read the work in its entirety. So that’s what I do.
This genre is right up my alley. Werewolves, fae, vampires…hell yeah. I was excited to jump in. But a few things stood out, some immediately and others in hindsight. The first was the Glossary and the Tilaak Terminology. I appreciated the effort, but having both felt a bit intimidating. The glossary alone was already full of made-up terms, and then we also had the Tilaak mumbo jumbo layered on top of that. Okayyy. In hindsight, neither was really necessary. Sam does a decent job explaining the terms as they appear, and most of them aren’t critical to the story anyway. Even without the explanations, readers could reasonably infer the meaning.
What stood out immediately, though, was the writing style. You know those short stories that pop up on social media with a compelling image, where you read a couple quick chapters and then it tells you to click a link to buy the rest? The ones that are very minimalist, not much detail, just moving the plot along? That’s what this felt like. Minimalist writing can absolutely work when done well. Some authors can say very little and still paint vivid images. But that wasn’t the case here. It felt rushed and surface level, like an amateur short story. I never felt emotionally invested in the characters, especially the MCs. The only exception being anxiety the whole way through for the MC who just may get his heart broken by the skank FMC - more on that later.
Then there were the grammatical issues and incorrect syntax. With 6 beta readers, I feel like a lot of this should have been caught. On its own, the story arc might have carried this to a three-star read, but it couldn’t carry the weight of these issues too. For example, Vessa’s mom “slams on the breaks ,” and then Vessa says, “Can’t you go any faster?”…but she’s stopping and it's brakes! That pulled me right out. Eighteen pages later, a character “dismounts” from the front seat of a hatchback. A car. Dismounts. Cringe. Axe gets shorts tossed to him, then a sentence later they’re called trousers. Dr. Caulder is introduced, then referred to as Preston, then by 'the doc', then back again. It’s minor, but it forces readers to pause and ask who we’re talking about. I thought there may have been multiple people in the event.
There were also little continuity issues. Vessa is using her phone flashlight, then “flips her phone over” to enter her passcode…even though the screen would already be facing her. Axe’s shirt supposedly falls to mid-shin on Vessa, then a sentence later it’s above her kneecaps. We’re reading about werewolves here, but suddenly we’re using “checking her oil” as innuendo for sex? These are characters who literally mate under the full moon in the open, but now we’re pretending to be modest about it? It just felt oddly out of place.
Even the texting format was strange. It starts with an actual bubble saying “From: Axe,” which isn’t how texting works. It would read more naturally to say she looked down and saw a text from Axe, then show the message. At another point, Vessa looks over her shoulder while pinned flat on her back. Physically…how? Or Axe telling Dom, “..If you care about her, which I suspect you do...” after they’ve interacted for about three seconds. And the 4-stroke engine…on a car? Sam, what.the.hell are we talking about here. It’s not a dirtbike.
Those are just a handful of examples. There were quite a few grammatical errors, typos, and moments where the minimalist style made scenes confusing. I often had to reread passages just to figure out what was happening. For example, when Vessa first meets Axe and suddenly hears him huffing and is instantly cornered. The vision of the scene isn’t clearly written, so it feels disjointed. Another line says he “rescinds his touch,” then immediately pulls her against him. I thought he rescinded it?
But the biggest issue for me was the Dom and Vessa arc. There’s zero buildup. Dom is instantly in love with her within seconds of meeting. Then Vessa is grinding on a random stranger in Dom’s club while staring at him provocatively. Eww. Why? Now we hate the MC. I try not to be biased, because the “every man instantly falls for the FMC” trope is already exhausting, but this one felt especially forced and disingenuous. We barely know anything about these characters when that dynamic gets dumped in our laps. That whole arc felt like it was setting up something for the next book, but within this one it just read as cringe. The entire time I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and for Vessa to do something reckless and inconsistent with someone supposedly mated to the Commander.
After joining Axe’s pack, Vessa also proves to be…not the brightest. She gets mauled (Sam wrote 'mawled') by a male and then immediately climbs out of her balcony during a full moon.
Ironically, the only character I genuinely liked So…cool.
Would I read this again? Absolutely not. Would I recommend it? Also no, unless you specifically enjoy very easy, amateur short-story style reads. For me, the world building wasn’t there, and the character development was even weaker. Relationships and emotions felt forced into existence instead of growing organically. The only reason this isn’t a one-star read is because the core idea had potential. Unfortunately, the writing fell flat, and the frequent misuse of language made it worse.
With that said, I take ARC duties seriously. I don’t DNF ARCs because that defeats the purpose. If you’re going to give meaningful feedback or a fair review, you need to read the work in its entirety. So that’s what I do.
This genre is right up my alley. Werewolves, fae, vampires…hell yeah. I was excited to jump in. But a few things stood out, some immediately and others in hindsight. The first was the Glossary and the Tilaak Terminology. I appreciated the effort, but having both felt a bit intimidating. The glossary alone was already full of made-up terms, and then we also had the Tilaak mumbo jumbo layered on top of that. Okayyy. In hindsight, neither was really necessary. Sam does a decent job explaining the terms as they appear, and most of them aren’t critical to the story anyway. Even without the explanations, readers could reasonably infer the meaning.
What stood out immediately, though, was the writing style. You know those short stories that pop up on social media with a compelling image, where you read a couple quick chapters and then it tells you to click a link to buy the rest? The ones that are very minimalist, not much detail, just moving the plot along? That’s what this felt like. Minimalist writing can absolutely work when done well. Some authors can say very little and still paint vivid images. But that wasn’t the case here. It felt rushed and surface level, like an amateur short story. I never felt emotionally invested in the characters, especially the MCs. The only exception being anxiety the whole way through for the MC who just may get his heart broken by the skank FMC - more on that later.
Then there were the grammatical issues and incorrect syntax. With 6 beta readers, I feel like a lot of this should have been caught. On its own, the story arc might have carried this to a three-star read, but it couldn’t carry the weight of these issues too. For example, Vessa’s mom “slams on the breaks ,” and then Vessa says, “Can’t you go any faster?”…but she’s stopping and it's brakes! That pulled me right out. Eighteen pages later, a character “dismounts” from the front seat of a hatchback. A car. Dismounts. Cringe. Axe gets shorts tossed to him, then a sentence later they’re called trousers. Dr. Caulder is introduced, then referred to as Preston, then by 'the doc', then back again. It’s minor, but it forces readers to pause and ask who we’re talking about. I thought there may have been multiple people in the event.
There were also little continuity issues. Vessa is using her phone flashlight, then “flips her phone over” to enter her passcode…even though the screen would already be facing her. Axe’s shirt supposedly falls to mid-shin on Vessa, then a sentence later it’s above her kneecaps. We’re reading about werewolves here, but suddenly we’re using “checking her oil” as innuendo for sex? These are characters who literally mate under the full moon in the open, but now we’re pretending to be modest about it? It just felt oddly out of place.
Even the texting format was strange. It starts with an actual bubble saying “From: Axe,” which isn’t how texting works. It would read more naturally to say she looked down and saw a text from Axe, then show the message. At another point, Vessa looks over her shoulder while pinned flat on her back. Physically…how? Or Axe telling Dom, “..If you care about her, which I suspect you do...” after they’ve interacted for about three seconds. And the 4-stroke engine…on a car? Sam, what.the.hell are we talking about here. It’s not a dirtbike.
Those are just a handful of examples. There were quite a few grammatical errors, typos, and moments where the minimalist style made scenes confusing. I often had to reread passages just to figure out what was happening. For example, when Vessa first meets Axe and suddenly hears him huffing and is instantly cornered. The vision of the scene isn’t clearly written, so it feels disjointed. Another line says he “rescinds his touch,” then immediately pulls her against him. I thought he rescinded it?
But the biggest issue for me was the Dom and Vessa arc. There’s zero buildup. Dom is instantly in love with her within seconds of meeting. Then Vessa is grinding on a random stranger in Dom’s club while staring at him provocatively. Eww. Why? Now we hate the MC. I try not to be biased, because the “every man instantly falls for the FMC” trope is already exhausting, but this one felt especially forced and disingenuous. We barely know anything about these characters when that dynamic gets dumped in our laps. That whole arc felt like it was setting up something for the next book, but within this one it just read as cringe. The entire time I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and for Vessa to do something reckless and inconsistent with someone supposedly mated to the Commander.
After joining Axe’s pack, Vessa also proves to be…not the brightest. She gets mauled (Sam wrote 'mawled') by a male and then immediately climbs out of her balcony during a full moon.
Ironically, the only character I genuinely liked So…cool.
Would I read this again? Absolutely not. Would I recommend it? Also no, unless you specifically enjoy very easy, amateur short-story style reads. For me, the world building wasn’t there, and the character development was even weaker. Relationships and emotions felt forced into existence instead of growing organically. The only reason this isn’t a one-star read is because the core idea had potential. Unfortunately, the writing fell flat, and the frequent misuse of language made it worse.
June 23, 2026
Right off the bat, the dedication got me. I didn't know too much before diving into this book, I purposely tried to go in kind of blind, and I'm so glad that I did. I loved this book so much. I've been in a bit of a reading slump for about a year now, and have been going insane, but this book gripped me immediately, and dare I say may have cured the slump for good. I can't wait for book two!
June 15, 2026
Curse of the Moonflower was a really enjoyable read that kept me invested from beginning to end. What stood out to me most were the characters and the relationships between them. I loved the found-family feel of the pack and how easy it was to become attached to the people surrounding Vessa. Between the romance, pack dynamics, and supernatural elements, I found myself eager to keep reading to see what would happen next.
Axe was easily my favorite character. I loved his unwavering loyalty, patience, and the way he supported Vessa while she tried to navigate everything that was happening to her. He had all the qualities I enjoy in a romantic lead—protective without being overbearing, devoted without losing his own identity, and always willing to put the people he cares about first. I found myself rooting for him from the very beginning.
The romance was enjoyable, and I liked the connection between Axe and Vessa, but I did find myself wanting a little more time spent developing their relationship. The chemistry was there, and I loved their interactions, but I would have happily read even more scenes focused on building their emotional bond before things progressed. That said, I was still invested in them as a couple and eager to see where their relationship goes next.
Vessa goes through so much over the course of the story, and I appreciated watching her try to find her place in a world that suddenly feels very different from the one she knew. While there were a few moments where I didn't completely connect with some of her choices, I still enjoyed her journey and am interested to see how she continues to grow throughout the series.
I was also especially intrigued by Dom. There were several moments that made me pause and wonder what his future role in the series will be. While the focus was understandably elsewhere in this book, he left enough of an impression that I'm eager to see more of his journey. He's one of those characters who feels like he has an important story still waiting to be told, and I'm looking forward to seeing how his character develops throughout the series.
Overall, this book delivered a lot of what I enjoy in paranormal romance: found family, pack dynamics, supernatural politics, danger, and romance. I finished the book invested in these characters and excited to continue the series to see what happens next.
✨ Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🐺 Multiple POVs
✨ Traumatized FMC & MMC
🐺 Fated Mates (and possibly more than one!)
✨ Found Family
🐺 Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨ Touch Her and Die
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for the gifted physical copy!
Axe was easily my favorite character. I loved his unwavering loyalty, patience, and the way he supported Vessa while she tried to navigate everything that was happening to her. He had all the qualities I enjoy in a romantic lead—protective without being overbearing, devoted without losing his own identity, and always willing to put the people he cares about first. I found myself rooting for him from the very beginning.
The romance was enjoyable, and I liked the connection between Axe and Vessa, but I did find myself wanting a little more time spent developing their relationship. The chemistry was there, and I loved their interactions, but I would have happily read even more scenes focused on building their emotional bond before things progressed. That said, I was still invested in them as a couple and eager to see where their relationship goes next.
Vessa goes through so much over the course of the story, and I appreciated watching her try to find her place in a world that suddenly feels very different from the one she knew. While there were a few moments where I didn't completely connect with some of her choices, I still enjoyed her journey and am interested to see how she continues to grow throughout the series.
I was also especially intrigued by Dom. There were several moments that made me pause and wonder what his future role in the series will be. While the focus was understandably elsewhere in this book, he left enough of an impression that I'm eager to see more of his journey. He's one of those characters who feels like he has an important story still waiting to be told, and I'm looking forward to seeing how his character develops throughout the series.
Overall, this book delivered a lot of what I enjoy in paranormal romance: found family, pack dynamics, supernatural politics, danger, and romance. I finished the book invested in these characters and excited to continue the series to see what happens next.
✨ Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🐺 Multiple POVs
✨ Traumatized FMC & MMC
🐺 Fated Mates (and possibly more than one!)
✨ Found Family
🐺 Reluctant Allies to Lovers
✨ Touch Her and Die
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for the gifted physical copy!
June 16, 2026
4.5⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
This book hooked me from the very first chapter and kept me turning pages until the very end. It was dark and addictive, filled with danger, secrets, supernatural politics, and plenty of twists.
This follows Vessa. After her mother's death, she discovers that she is tied to an ancient curse and is being hunted by a banished Vampire King who claims she is destined to be his bride. Thrust into a hidden world of wolves, witches, and vampires, she must uncover the truth about herself while navigating a fate bond and fighting for control of her future.
Vessa took some time to grow on me, but her character development was incredibly rewarding. She starts off sheltered and uncertain, but her journey transforms her into the fierce, resilient woman she needs to become.
And then there's Axe. I fell for him immediately. Broody, bloodthirsty, fiercely loyal, and unapologetically protective, he is everything I love in a MMC. I also loved his entire wolf pack and their loyalty and family.
The mystery surrounding Vessa's curse continued to evolve in unexpected ways, and the ending had me on the edge of my seat with its twists and betrayals. That final reveal left me desperate for the next book—I can't wait to see what's next for Vessa and Axe. And would love more of Dominik!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Romantasy
➳❥ Werewolves, Witches & Vampires
➳❥ Fated Mates
➳❥ Found Family
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
➳❥ Hidden Identity
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“I wonder when it last was that she felt the sun on her face. If I could possibly be that for her. But how could I when I was baptized in violence? When storms of fury are all I've ever known? I've never shown my heart to anyone.”
“I would give my right arm just to trail a single finger up her thigh.”
“That fucking scent - it’s dangerous, dizzying enough to make a chaste man feral.”
"Would you like it back, then? Your power?"
"No. You can have every last drop."
"I have been waiting for you for most of my existence. But I will wait as long as you need. I have always been yours.”
“You are living proof that darkness doesn't get the final word."
This book hooked me from the very first chapter and kept me turning pages until the very end. It was dark and addictive, filled with danger, secrets, supernatural politics, and plenty of twists.
This follows Vessa. After her mother's death, she discovers that she is tied to an ancient curse and is being hunted by a banished Vampire King who claims she is destined to be his bride. Thrust into a hidden world of wolves, witches, and vampires, she must uncover the truth about herself while navigating a fate bond and fighting for control of her future.
Vessa took some time to grow on me, but her character development was incredibly rewarding. She starts off sheltered and uncertain, but her journey transforms her into the fierce, resilient woman she needs to become.
And then there's Axe. I fell for him immediately. Broody, bloodthirsty, fiercely loyal, and unapologetically protective, he is everything I love in a MMC. I also loved his entire wolf pack and their loyalty and family.
The mystery surrounding Vessa's curse continued to evolve in unexpected ways, and the ending had me on the edge of my seat with its twists and betrayals. That final reveal left me desperate for the next book—I can't wait to see what's next for Vessa and Axe. And would love more of Dominik!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Romantasy
➳❥ Werewolves, Witches & Vampires
➳❥ Fated Mates
➳❥ Found Family
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
➳❥ Hidden Identity
➳❥ Slow Burn
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“I wonder when it last was that she felt the sun on her face. If I could possibly be that for her. But how could I when I was baptized in violence? When storms of fury are all I've ever known? I've never shown my heart to anyone.”
“I would give my right arm just to trail a single finger up her thigh.”
“That fucking scent - it’s dangerous, dizzying enough to make a chaste man feral.”
"Would you like it back, then? Your power?"
"No. You can have every last drop."
"I have been waiting for you for most of my existence. But I will wait as long as you need. I have always been yours.”
“You are living proof that darkness doesn't get the final word."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Sam Dorsett for an eARC of this book. Thoughts and opinions are my own.Overall, I really enjoyed the premise of this book. The whole thing with Vessa's curse and all the connections and the lore are intriguing. I do feel like this book could have used one or two more editing passes though (my biggest(?) issue is frequently words were used that were incorrect (someone pressing the breaks instead of brakes, etc) and a few times where the words just didn't fit the way they were used. It was a little off putting when something like that would come up because I'd have to go back and re-read to make sure I got the point that was trying to be made.
Overall, I think Vessa has potential. I did get a little frustrated with the way she treated Axe though. There's one point where she tells him that he has to be open with her and he can't keep anything from her, yet at that point, she was still not even thinking about telling him everything. Plus there was the way she acted in the club (before the Ludone incident) and I just...on one hand, I could understand things. On the other, for the situation she's in, all things considered, she could have made different choices. It was sad, but I liked(?) the way she handled Levi and getting vengeance for Demi. I'm curious to see what's going to happen after Axe's comment at the end.
Axe is intriguing and I definitely like him. Broody man that he is. The reveal on his sentence is concerning and I'm curious how they're going to play that out. The Council definitely doesn't like him. His relationship with Dom is intriguing as well; I'm hoping they can sort of reconcile through the rest of the books. Or at least not be at such cross points with each other.
The book felt a little slow, pacing-wise until about 40-45% ish. Then you get closer to the end and things start rolling down hill pretty fast. There's a lot that will need to be unpacked, including Maurleen's reveals, and I'm definitely hoping some stuff doesn't go down the way that it seems to be pointing.
Overall, decent debut and I'm most definitely curious to see how stuff is going to play out!!
Book releases April 21, 2026
June 17, 2026
CURSE OF THE MOONFLOWER
Werewolves, vampires, and witches. Oh, my!
“Sometimes I can’t help but ponder which is more miserable—dying at the hands of night creatures or continuing to live like this.”
“If the lycans of Bleeding Sun turn on me, I’m dead. That’s if Axe doesn’t rip my spine out first for withholding the truth.”
“He wants you to live in fear. All I want is to free you from it.”
Cursed. Hunted. Coveted….
Cursed, Vessa is destined to marry the banished vampire ruler of the Underworld
who will stop at nothing to find her. After spending years in hiding with a lycan and his oracle mate, the seer has a vision, revealing a truth that could provide Vessa with more protection than she’s ever had—a place among the Bleeding Sun pack and with their alpha commander, Axe Skornokovy. But members of the pack aren’t all accepting of a human girl and with the Blood Master still seeking his bride, things become tumultuous and darker the deeper you fall into this story.
“I will crawl out of the trenches, and I will take back my fate with silver and blood.”
Vessa’s journey in this is rough to say the least. She is put through it! But watching her grow and find her place among the pack was my favorite. The relationship between Vessa and Axe is a slow burn and I loved how things developed between them. It felt natural and not rushed. Things really pick up towards the last 30% sending you on a a wild ride, so buckle up!
“If I have to bend this world in half, if it means that I have to face an army of demons on my own and cut down everything in my path to keep you, then I will. So long as the moon watches over us, I will always want you, Vespera.”
If you’re a fan of Underworld and True Blood, and paranormal in general then I think you’ll enjoy this dark paranormal fantasy!
🌙Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🖤Multiple POVs
🌙Traumatized FMC & MMC
🖤Fated Mates (Multiple perhaps?)
🌙Found Family
🖤Reluctant Allies to Lovers
🌙Touch her and d!e
Werewolves, vampires, and witches. Oh, my!
“Sometimes I can’t help but ponder which is more miserable—dying at the hands of night creatures or continuing to live like this.”
“If the lycans of Bleeding Sun turn on me, I’m dead. That’s if Axe doesn’t rip my spine out first for withholding the truth.”
“He wants you to live in fear. All I want is to free you from it.”
Cursed. Hunted. Coveted….
Cursed, Vessa is destined to marry the banished vampire ruler of the Underworld
who will stop at nothing to find her. After spending years in hiding with a lycan and his oracle mate, the seer has a vision, revealing a truth that could provide Vessa with more protection than she’s ever had—a place among the Bleeding Sun pack and with their alpha commander, Axe Skornokovy. But members of the pack aren’t all accepting of a human girl and with the Blood Master still seeking his bride, things become tumultuous and darker the deeper you fall into this story.
“I will crawl out of the trenches, and I will take back my fate with silver and blood.”
Vessa’s journey in this is rough to say the least. She is put through it! But watching her grow and find her place among the pack was my favorite. The relationship between Vessa and Axe is a slow burn and I loved how things developed between them. It felt natural and not rushed. Things really pick up towards the last 30% sending you on a a wild ride, so buckle up!
“If I have to bend this world in half, if it means that I have to face an army of demons on my own and cut down everything in my path to keep you, then I will. So long as the moon watches over us, I will always want you, Vespera.”
If you’re a fan of Underworld and True Blood, and paranormal in general then I think you’ll enjoy this dark paranormal fantasy!
🌙Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🖤Multiple POVs
🌙Traumatized FMC & MMC
🖤Fated Mates (Multiple perhaps?)
🌙Found Family
🖤Reluctant Allies to Lovers
🌙Touch her and d!e
Review of advance copy received from Author
I found Curse of the Moonflower to be extremely enjoyable! The story is engaging and the plot has so much potential! I loved the high stakes of this curse and everything Vessa has to overcome.
I really love getting the glossary and insight into the Tilaak terminology, I'm a sucker for a good glossary because anytime I have questions I can just search what I'm looking for! I was so looking forward to getting into a new shifter book with lycans and vampires! And I'm really excited to see what happens with this potential love triangle!
For me, I can only give this story 3 stars, and there's a few reasons why: Normally I am absolutely a vibes girl, and I will say, the vibes ARE here, however I found a lot of continuity issues with characters, actions, and moments of time that took me completely out of the story to back up and have to re read to make sure I wasn't speeding over important information. I had a hard time getting into the moment fully when it felt like we were in one scene, and then the next page somewhere completely different or time had gone past in a single chapter. So for me, it was difficult to fully connect with the characters because of this.
There is however so much potential for character arcs that I'm personally looking forward to! Dom's character has me very intrigued and I can't wait to see more from him. And the way the story left off has me eagerly wanting more! I still find myself invested in this story and enjoyed myself while reading!
If you love paranormal fantasy romance with love triangles, curses, badass FMC's and possessive MMC's with some fated mates I think you'll love this! Please make sure to check the TW as there are sensitive topics in this book. 💛
This is an arc review I am leaving voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
I really love getting the glossary and insight into the Tilaak terminology, I'm a sucker for a good glossary because anytime I have questions I can just search what I'm looking for! I was so looking forward to getting into a new shifter book with lycans and vampires! And I'm really excited to see what happens with this potential love triangle!
For me, I can only give this story 3 stars, and there's a few reasons why: Normally I am absolutely a vibes girl, and I will say, the vibes ARE here, however I found a lot of continuity issues with characters, actions, and moments of time that took me completely out of the story to back up and have to re read to make sure I wasn't speeding over important information. I had a hard time getting into the moment fully when it felt like we were in one scene, and then the next page somewhere completely different or time had gone past in a single chapter. So for me, it was difficult to fully connect with the characters because of this.
There is however so much potential for character arcs that I'm personally looking forward to! Dom's character has me very intrigued and I can't wait to see more from him. And the way the story left off has me eagerly wanting more! I still find myself invested in this story and enjoyed myself while reading!
If you love paranormal fantasy romance with love triangles, curses, badass FMC's and possessive MMC's with some fated mates I think you'll love this! Please make sure to check the TW as there are sensitive topics in this book. 💛
This is an arc review I am leaving voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
May 3, 2026
It has been a while since I last read a werewolf vs vampire story and this book had all the right tropes and vibes for me. It had plenty of blood and violence through out so definitely check the trigger warnings before reading.
I really loved Vessa as our FMC and felt like she had quite the character development through the story. She starts very much like a teenager who has been sheltered in a few ways. But by the end she is very much the kick ass female she needed to be to survive the traumas she fights through. The story of her curse evolves along with her taking on new dimensions and twists as the story progresses. Where as, Axe our MMC is blood thirsty but at the same time is a walking protective green flag male when it comes to Vessa, both before and after he finds out her true identity.
The story was an enjoyable read all the way through but there was a couple of things that felt a little disjointed. As much as I liked Dom, the potential love triangle that seemed to be hinted at between him, Vessa and Axe, seemed a little out of place. There was not much time spent together between him and Vessa, as well as no explanation into why his feeling for her were so forceful. I hope that maybe in book two this might be explains a little more.
The ending of this book did have me gripping the edge of my seat with all its twists and betrayals. I am looking forward to seeing where the author takes this in the next book. Especially what the future holds for Vessa and Axe, after what was revealed at the very end.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in return for a honest opinion.
I really loved Vessa as our FMC and felt like she had quite the character development through the story. She starts very much like a teenager who has been sheltered in a few ways. But by the end she is very much the kick ass female she needed to be to survive the traumas she fights through. The story of her curse evolves along with her taking on new dimensions and twists as the story progresses. Where as, Axe our MMC is blood thirsty but at the same time is a walking protective green flag male when it comes to Vessa, both before and after he finds out her true identity.
The story was an enjoyable read all the way through but there was a couple of things that felt a little disjointed. As much as I liked Dom, the potential love triangle that seemed to be hinted at between him, Vessa and Axe, seemed a little out of place. There was not much time spent together between him and Vessa, as well as no explanation into why his feeling for her were so forceful. I hope that maybe in book two this might be explains a little more.
The ending of this book did have me gripping the edge of my seat with all its twists and betrayals. I am looking forward to seeing where the author takes this in the next book. Especially what the future holds for Vessa and Axe, after what was revealed at the very end.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in return for a honest opinion.
June 10, 2026
A cursed human with secrets of her own who’s forced to flee for her life right into the hands of an alpha who will do anything to protect her now that he’s found her.
You follow the FMC Vessa, who’s spent her life as a human, with no idea that the gods made her a reincarnation of the human woman that the vampire ruler loved, and would do anything to get. When her mother tragically dies in an accident, she flees the scene with a wolf and oracle who help her escape and promise to find a way to make her safe and explain to her more about the truth of what she is. After spending years on the run together, they have her enter the hunt so she can cross paths with the alpha wolf who could offer her more permanent protection and hates the vampire ruler as much as she does. But will his pack accept a human as his mate and their Luna, and will being with him only bring them all into more danger?
It was an emotional rollercoaster following the plight of the FMC, from losing her mom and having to upend her life, to forming a new little found family, only to have it all at risk again, I felt for all she was going through. I also liked how the MMC gave her space to accept the bond and all the responsibilities that would come with it, even though when you read from his POV how much he wanted to just claim her. I love a “who did this to you” and a MMC who would burn the world down for his FMC, so of course I loved Axe. I can’t wait to find out what will happen next and how this story will continue! My rating 4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC Vessa, who’s spent her life as a human, with no idea that the gods made her a reincarnation of the human woman that the vampire ruler loved, and would do anything to get. When her mother tragically dies in an accident, she flees the scene with a wolf and oracle who help her escape and promise to find a way to make her safe and explain to her more about the truth of what she is. After spending years on the run together, they have her enter the hunt so she can cross paths with the alpha wolf who could offer her more permanent protection and hates the vampire ruler as much as she does. But will his pack accept a human as his mate and their Luna, and will being with him only bring them all into more danger?
It was an emotional rollercoaster following the plight of the FMC, from losing her mom and having to upend her life, to forming a new little found family, only to have it all at risk again, I felt for all she was going through. I also liked how the MMC gave her space to accept the bond and all the responsibilities that would come with it, even though when you read from his POV how much he wanted to just claim her. I love a “who did this to you” and a MMC who would burn the world down for his FMC, so of course I loved Axe. I can’t wait to find out what will happen next and how this story will continue! My rating 4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
April 15, 2026
The opening chapter of this book had me sat and ready 📚and I am definitely in my werewolf reading era again after COTM.
I instantly fell in love with our MMC, Axe and his entire wolf pack. This was an easy book to get sucked into and it did not feel too overwhelming with the world building or excessive dialogue.
COTM has the ingredients for everything you could want in a Fantasy book - werewolves, witches, vampires, curse/prophesy, possessive alpha and an incredible found family.
The book was relatively fast paced and I felt like almost each chapter drove the plot line along.
Overall, I found this book enjoyable to read and I would love to know what happens in the future books 🥰
Congratulations to Sam on your debut novel and thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to read and review this ARC 🖤
There were some spelling errors/misuse of words however, this is something that can get picked up and resolved through editing and I didn’t think that personally it affected my reading experience at all.
Some minor spoilers/thoughts;
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I love Dom, however, I realllly don’t like the idea of him and Vassa right now. I don’t think there’s enough chemistry there and it’s very one sided.. i honestly want him to find his true mate and take on that protective brother in law role, rather than be cast in the shadows as the permanent third wheel.
I also really hope that we’re not about to give Axe the Tamlin treatment. I think there’s enough chemistry between Axe and Vassa and I hope that we see their story and challenges develop in the future books.
I instantly fell in love with our MMC, Axe and his entire wolf pack. This was an easy book to get sucked into and it did not feel too overwhelming with the world building or excessive dialogue.
COTM has the ingredients for everything you could want in a Fantasy book - werewolves, witches, vampires, curse/prophesy, possessive alpha and an incredible found family.
The book was relatively fast paced and I felt like almost each chapter drove the plot line along.
Overall, I found this book enjoyable to read and I would love to know what happens in the future books 🥰
Congratulations to Sam on your debut novel and thank you so much for giving me this opportunity to read and review this ARC 🖤
There were some spelling errors/misuse of words however, this is something that can get picked up and resolved through editing and I didn’t think that personally it affected my reading experience at all.
Some minor spoilers/thoughts;
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•
•
•
•
•
•
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I love Dom, however, I realllly don’t like the idea of him and Vassa right now. I don’t think there’s enough chemistry there and it’s very one sided.. i honestly want him to find his true mate and take on that protective brother in law role, rather than be cast in the shadows as the permanent third wheel.
I also really hope that we’re not about to give Axe the Tamlin treatment. I think there’s enough chemistry between Axe and Vassa and I hope that we see their story and challenges develop in the future books.
June 14, 2026
Thank you to the author and RR Book Tours for providing me an ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
I was very excited to read Curse of the Moonflower as it has all the great elements of a romantasy- vampires, werewolves, fated mates, a prophecy. There is a lot going on. I thought Dorsett did an amazing job of world building with a unique plot. I do wish the romance wasn't as slow burn and the pacing was slightly faster. It did drag a bit the first half of the book, but once it finally starting moving I couldn't put it down.
Vessa the FMC takes a moment to grow on you. She was raised to believe she was human and after her mother's death finds out instead she is reincarnated woman who is fated to marry a Vampire King. She is sheltered, immature and frustrating sometimes to read. But that is also her character- she takes a while to learn to love, but her character growth arc won't let you down in the end.
Axe is what we all want in a book MC. He is broody, blood thirsty and willing to kill anyone for Vessa. His character really kept me invested and I would continue on with the series just for this man. The romance build up between the two was just alright. Once again Vessa was her own worst enemy. I do hope it moves along and deepens in book 2.
Dom is a question mark for me. I truly hope moving forward he isn't part of a love triangle. It didn't work for me at all. I'm hoping this series in book 2 or 3 continues with multiple POVs and potential other love interests and we see Dom find his own mate.
I was very excited to read Curse of the Moonflower as it has all the great elements of a romantasy- vampires, werewolves, fated mates, a prophecy. There is a lot going on. I thought Dorsett did an amazing job of world building with a unique plot. I do wish the romance wasn't as slow burn and the pacing was slightly faster. It did drag a bit the first half of the book, but once it finally starting moving I couldn't put it down.
Vessa the FMC takes a moment to grow on you. She was raised to believe she was human and after her mother's death finds out instead she is reincarnated woman who is fated to marry a Vampire King. She is sheltered, immature and frustrating sometimes to read. But that is also her character- she takes a while to learn to love, but her character growth arc won't let you down in the end.
Axe is what we all want in a book MC. He is broody, blood thirsty and willing to kill anyone for Vessa. His character really kept me invested and I would continue on with the series just for this man. The romance build up between the two was just alright. Once again Vessa was her own worst enemy. I do hope it moves along and deepens in book 2.
Dom is a question mark for me. I truly hope moving forward he isn't part of a love triangle. It didn't work for me at all. I'm hoping this series in book 2 or 3 continues with multiple POVs and potential other love interests and we see Dom find his own mate.
June 20, 2026
I read CURSE OF THE MOONFLOWER by Sam Dorsett as part of a review tour hosted by the author and R&R Book Tours. Thank you to both for inviting me along and for the gifted e-arc. I'm so glad I read this!
I love a good dark fantasy full of fantastical characters as well as paranormal characters. This story is full of both. With werewolves, vampires, witches, and demons involved you know things are going to get interesting.
Axe and Deirdre aren't exactly friends. Following a series of traumatic events, Deirdre finds herself in the care of a werewolf and an oracle. Things never slow down from the first page. Deirdre finds herself constantly on the run from vampires, even when she thought she'd be safe after finding Axe, the Alpha werewolf.
There are so many twists and turns. There is betrayal by someone close, only we don't find out who it is till the last part of the book. I still think there's more to it than we know.
As for the fated mates, it seems highly possible there may be more than one mate fated to Deirdre. If that ends up being the case, things will definitely explode in upcoming books.
I love the tension, the banter, the action, and ancient magic at play. There is never a dull moment. I was totally surprised when secrets started unraveling and the ending is a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read book 2!
I would definitely recommend CURSE OF THE MOONFLOWER.
I love a good dark fantasy full of fantastical characters as well as paranormal characters. This story is full of both. With werewolves, vampires, witches, and demons involved you know things are going to get interesting.
Axe and Deirdre aren't exactly friends. Following a series of traumatic events, Deirdre finds herself in the care of a werewolf and an oracle. Things never slow down from the first page. Deirdre finds herself constantly on the run from vampires, even when she thought she'd be safe after finding Axe, the Alpha werewolf.
There are so many twists and turns. There is betrayal by someone close, only we don't find out who it is till the last part of the book. I still think there's more to it than we know.
As for the fated mates, it seems highly possible there may be more than one mate fated to Deirdre. If that ends up being the case, things will definitely explode in upcoming books.
I love the tension, the banter, the action, and ancient magic at play. There is never a dull moment. I was totally surprised when secrets started unraveling and the ending is a cliffhanger. I can't wait to read book 2!
I would definitely recommend CURSE OF THE MOONFLOWER.
March 28, 2026
3.5⭐
This book had such a strong and intriguing concept with vampires, wolves, a curse, and fated mates. The world itself had a lot of potential, and I especially enjoyed the darker elements and the emotional depth surrounding Axe (MMC) and his past.
That said, the story felt a bit disjointed at times. It jumped between scenes and moments in a way that made it hard to fully stay immersed, and I occasionally had to pause and reorient myself to what was happening. Because of that, I struggled to fully connect with the characters and their relationships, even though the foundation for something really compelling is there.
The romance and possible love triangle had potential, but it felt somewhat underdeveloped, and I wanted more tension and buildup to really sell the dynamics. There are definitely interesting ideas here, especially with the prophecy and the overall conflict.
This is a solid read with a great premise and plenty of potential, especially if you enjoy paranormal romance with shifters, vampires, and fated mates. I’m curious to see how the story and characters develop in future installments. I’d still be interested in book 2, seeing as this book leaves on a cliffhanger!
This book had such a strong and intriguing concept with vampires, wolves, a curse, and fated mates. The world itself had a lot of potential, and I especially enjoyed the darker elements and the emotional depth surrounding Axe (MMC) and his past.
That said, the story felt a bit disjointed at times. It jumped between scenes and moments in a way that made it hard to fully stay immersed, and I occasionally had to pause and reorient myself to what was happening. Because of that, I struggled to fully connect with the characters and their relationships, even though the foundation for something really compelling is there.
The romance and possible love triangle had potential, but it felt somewhat underdeveloped, and I wanted more tension and buildup to really sell the dynamics. There are definitely interesting ideas here, especially with the prophecy and the overall conflict.
This is a solid read with a great premise and plenty of potential, especially if you enjoy paranormal romance with shifters, vampires, and fated mates. I’m curious to see how the story and characters develop in future installments. I’d still be interested in book 2, seeing as this book leaves on a cliffhanger!
June 15, 2026
I went into this one with high hopes as I love darker paranormal reads. Toss in a curse, vampires, werewolves, fated mates... what's not to love? Unfortunately, this one didn't quite work for me, with the biggest reasons being that I didn't connect with the FMC and I didn't enjoy her dynamic and scenes with her fated mate. I did like Axe as a character. His protective instincts were endearing, but his connection with Vessa wasn't really developed or compelling enough for me to root for them beyond the fact that they were fated mates. Also, it seemed like there was a setup for a potential love triangle, but that also seemed kind of thrown in there and not really explored much in this book, so I'm not sure where that will lead. Overall, I wasn't really invested in the story until the last 20% where the pace definitely picked up. While the cliffhanger does a good job of setting up the next book, I won't be continuing the series. I'd rate this 3.25 stars.
"You are living proof that darkness doesn’t get the final word."
I think readers who enjoy paranormal romance, darker stories, traumatized leads, betrayals, prophecies, and cliffhangers might enjoy this one!
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for a copy of this book!
"You are living proof that darkness doesn’t get the final word."
I think readers who enjoy paranormal romance, darker stories, traumatized leads, betrayals, prophecies, and cliffhangers might enjoy this one!
Thank you to the author and R&R Book Tours for a copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you sooo much for the ARC!!
This was a 4.5🌟 read for me!!
This book…WOW. I enjoyed this from start to finish! I consumed it and it consumed me.
Slow burn?✅ yearning??✅ THE TENSION!!✅✅✅
In The Curse of the Moon Flower our FMC Vespera has spent her life running from her fate, which is being destined to marry the exiled vampire prince. After her oracle guardian has a vision about how she can solidify her safety and stay out of reach of the vampires, she goes to find her mate 🫶🏻 the alpha of the bleeding sun pack. Oh and he just happens to have the life mission of destroying said vampire prince and eradicating all vampires from the world!
This book truly had me on the edge of my seat the whole time wondering what was going to happen next! The found family in this was beautiful and so is the love that builds between Vessa and Axe. I’m absolutely obsessed with them!
And don’t talk to me about that ending 😭 bc girl WTFFF! Neeeeeeed the next book NOW
This was a 4.5🌟 read for me!!
This book…WOW. I enjoyed this from start to finish! I consumed it and it consumed me.
Slow burn?✅ yearning??✅ THE TENSION!!✅✅✅
In The Curse of the Moon Flower our FMC Vespera has spent her life running from her fate, which is being destined to marry the exiled vampire prince. After her oracle guardian has a vision about how she can solidify her safety and stay out of reach of the vampires, she goes to find her mate 🫶🏻 the alpha of the bleeding sun pack. Oh and he just happens to have the life mission of destroying said vampire prince and eradicating all vampires from the world!
This book truly had me on the edge of my seat the whole time wondering what was going to happen next! The found family in this was beautiful and so is the love that builds between Vessa and Axe. I’m absolutely obsessed with them!
And don’t talk to me about that ending 😭 bc girl WTFFF! Neeeeeeed the next book NOW
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was very fast paced with wolves, witches, vampires and prophecies. Vessa is fated to be the bride for an evil vampire called the Blood Master but is also the fated mate to an alpha wolf. She is a pawn and used by everyone for their own purposes. She has traumas and definitely has been through and continues to go through a lot. Axe also has past trauma and it plays out in how he tries to keep her safe. He wants revenge on the Blood Master and this has shaped him completely as a character. His conflict with his brother Dom is also fascinating. How did they get there? What will happen with them next. Not super into the love triangle idea with the three of them because of all the talk about mates. I also felt like Doms feelings for her felt one sided whereas she seems to have actual feelings for Axe. Very curious to see how this will all play out in the next book especially after that ending.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an eARC copy!!
Such a different and unique fantasy from what is popular/has been popular in mainstream media. You can tell the amount of heart and soul put into the lore, world building, and character building from the very beginning. The characters especially, they all have such unique traits and stand alone qualities. A truly incredible ensemble cast, I was so drawn to everyone.
Vessa is a force - from page one, her strength is so obvious. It’s giving Aelin (iykyk)!!!! Badass FMCs for the win!! Her relationship with Axe is so interesting to watch unfold. Their banter, the sense of equality and shared respect between them.
Here’s to hoping Dom (my baby lolllll) is explored more in the coming books - I’m SO intrigued by his character and motivations.
Truly so many thoughts and feelings about this debut - hats off to the author for creating such an incredible story.
Such a different and unique fantasy from what is popular/has been popular in mainstream media. You can tell the amount of heart and soul put into the lore, world building, and character building from the very beginning. The characters especially, they all have such unique traits and stand alone qualities. A truly incredible ensemble cast, I was so drawn to everyone.
Vessa is a force - from page one, her strength is so obvious. It’s giving Aelin (iykyk)!!!! Badass FMCs for the win!! Her relationship with Axe is so interesting to watch unfold. Their banter, the sense of equality and shared respect between them.
Here’s to hoping Dom (my baby lolllll) is explored more in the coming books - I’m SO intrigued by his character and motivations.
Truly so many thoughts and feelings about this debut - hats off to the author for creating such an incredible story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of an advanced copy from author
First, congratulations on your debut book. To come out of the gate with this story is wickedly impressive.
The story captured me right away and kept me engaged. Broody/angsty MMCs, an FMC that can handle herself, and loveable side characters that keep them grounded - just the right mix.
We are given glimpses of the darkness within one character - which he tries to keep tethered. Another has questionable loyalties (and interest) resulting in discord. Add in everybody's secrets, a curse, prophecies, and all the twists - I ate this up.
I'm here for the vibes and Sam delivered. I look so forward to how this story continues.
Werewolves, witches, vampires, & demons
Multi-POVs
Fated Mates
Found Family
Reluctant allies to lovers
Touch her and 💀
First, congratulations on your debut book. To come out of the gate with this story is wickedly impressive.
The story captured me right away and kept me engaged. Broody/angsty MMCs, an FMC that can handle herself, and loveable side characters that keep them grounded - just the right mix.
We are given glimpses of the darkness within one character - which he tries to keep tethered. Another has questionable loyalties (and interest) resulting in discord. Add in everybody's secrets, a curse, prophecies, and all the twists - I ate this up.
I'm here for the vibes and Sam delivered. I look so forward to how this story continues.
Werewolves, witches, vampires, & demons
Multi-POVs
Fated Mates
Found Family
Reluctant allies to lovers
Touch her and 💀
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m not going to lie, my eyes are still blurry and stinging from the crying i’ve been doing the last 50ish pages so this review might be very badly written but I couldn’t wait to write something down.
Damn you Sam for making me love a wolf shifter book, somehow I skipped over that while applying for the ARC or maybe the rest of the blurb convinced me enough to give it a chance, all I know is, I am not a werewolf story enjoyer (usually) but this book just changed that.
The plot in this book just kept thickening and for once I genuinely couldn’t predict what was going to happen next. That very rarely happens, even now after finishing the book, I am left with so many questions. Questions that will have to sit in my mind now FOR AGES until we get the sequel.
So again, damn you Sam for not only making me like a wolf shifter story but also for making me EXCITED for the next one.
Damn you Sam for making me love a wolf shifter book, somehow I skipped over that while applying for the ARC or maybe the rest of the blurb convinced me enough to give it a chance, all I know is, I am not a werewolf story enjoyer (usually) but this book just changed that.
The plot in this book just kept thickening and for once I genuinely couldn’t predict what was going to happen next. That very rarely happens, even now after finishing the book, I am left with so many questions. Questions that will have to sit in my mind now FOR AGES until we get the sequel.
So again, damn you Sam for not only making me like a wolf shifter story but also for making me EXCITED for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed Curse of the Moon Flower. Vampires - what's not to love? The story was good and the concept was enjoyable.
The cover is very understated. The colours were beautiful together. I even liked the font on this cover!
The writing is good and the story flows nicely. The descriptions are stunning. They are so rich and detailed. They're very easy to imagine.
The setting was excellent and Sam's world-building was fantastic. This is essential for this type of novel and Sam smashed it out the park!
The characters were excellent. They were well thought out, well developed and deep. I really liked Axe and Vessa. They were strong characters and enjoyed their interactions.
I definitely recommend Curse of the Moon Flower to you all.
The cover is very understated. The colours were beautiful together. I even liked the font on this cover!
The writing is good and the story flows nicely. The descriptions are stunning. They are so rich and detailed. They're very easy to imagine.
The setting was excellent and Sam's world-building was fantastic. This is essential for this type of novel and Sam smashed it out the park!
The characters were excellent. They were well thought out, well developed and deep. I really liked Axe and Vessa. They were strong characters and enjoyed their interactions.
I definitely recommend Curse of the Moon Flower to you all.
April 20, 2026
Sam brought back the nostalgia of Twilight and Vampire Academy in her debut. The magic and supernatural world was throughly thought-out with well versed imagery and wit. Ending on a cliffhanger with Vessa in continuing with her true identity wrapped it up nice as a fast paced read. You really just get into the story and are immersed in this world and its characters.
With the nostalgia, I do think this is a better fit as a YA fantasy with the way it was written and its flow. The writing can always be better and I can see Sam’s strengths pouring her passion for this story and characters page by page. Looking forward to what comes next.
With the nostalgia, I do think this is a better fit as a YA fantasy with the way it was written and its flow. The writing can always be better and I can see Sam’s strengths pouring her passion for this story and characters page by page. Looking forward to what comes next.
April 21, 2026
3.75 - If you enjoyed the Wolf King, you should read this book. It was a whirlwind being a dark fantasy with wolves, werewolves, Lycan, and fae. All the things I love.
I really enjoyed the writing in the beginning. I was hooked. It slowed down pacing wise a bit in the middle for me, and there were some questionable descriptors like small details not adding up if that makes sense. Axe and Vessa are a slow burn for sure. The ending was wild, and I can’t wait to find out more of Maurleen’s story and what she knows.
The prison is giving me endovier vibes. iykyk
Thank you Sam for this arc! I can’t wait to keep watching your writing grow
I really enjoyed the writing in the beginning. I was hooked. It slowed down pacing wise a bit in the middle for me, and there were some questionable descriptors like small details not adding up if that makes sense. Axe and Vessa are a slow burn for sure. The ending was wild, and I can’t wait to find out more of Maurleen’s story and what she knows.
The prison is giving me endovier vibes. iykyk
Thank you Sam for this arc! I can’t wait to keep watching your writing grow
June 16, 2026
𝖍𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖒𝖊 𝖔𝖚𝖙: 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖜𝖔𝖑𝖛𝖊𝖘 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖛𝖆𝖒𝖕𝖎𝖗𝖊𝖘...
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2026 is the year of all things werewolf for us and ohhhh my goshhhhh this one did not disappoint!
Full of tropes that we all know and love...
🖤Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🖤Multiple POVs
🖤Fated Mates
🖤Found Family
🖤Reluctant Allies to Lovers
🖤Touch her and 💀
I seriously could not get enough and read it cover to cover in less than 2 days). As much as I love a vampire, wolves/lycans have seemingly taken over my tbr and simultaneously, is altering my brain chemistry.
If you're looking for more 🐺 books to add to your TBR, be sure to check this one out. ♡
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2026 is the year of all things werewolf for us and ohhhh my goshhhhh this one did not disappoint!
Full of tropes that we all know and love...
🖤Werewolves, Witches, Vampires & Demons
🖤Multiple POVs
🖤Fated Mates
🖤Found Family
🖤Reluctant Allies to Lovers
🖤Touch her and 💀
I seriously could not get enough and read it cover to cover in less than 2 days). As much as I love a vampire, wolves/lycans have seemingly taken over my tbr and simultaneously, is altering my brain chemistry.
If you're looking for more 🐺 books to add to your TBR, be sure to check this one out. ♡
June 17, 2026
I enjoyed this book. It had me intrigued from the beginning wondering what was going to happen next. Lots of twists and turns.
This is a paranormal romance book with shifters with fated mates and enemies. Vessa definitely has some things that she has been through and the way she acts can be annoying but need to read to the end of this book. Axe is definitely broody and moody but I just loved him.
There's some danger happening along with politics and had me holding on to see what would happen next.
I also am intrigued by Dom and wondering more about him and hoping to get more information in the next book!
This is a paranormal romance book with shifters with fated mates and enemies. Vessa definitely has some things that she has been through and the way she acts can be annoying but need to read to the end of this book. Axe is definitely broody and moody but I just loved him.
There's some danger happening along with politics and had me holding on to see what would happen next.
I also am intrigued by Dom and wondering more about him and hoping to get more information in the next book!
June 18, 2026
I found this to be an enjoyable read. I love books with werewolves, vampires, etc. so this was right up my alley. Axe, Dom , and the werewolf pack were my favorite characters. I didn’t really connect with Vessa and found her actions confusing. I also thought that the story jumped around a little, which had me going back to reread sections. That being said, the storyline for Curse of the Moonflower was great and I was totally invested. After that cliffhanger, I can’t wait to see where the next book takes us and hopefully get more of Dom. Thank you are RR Book tours and the author for the opportunity to read and leave my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was sucked in from the very start! There were so many twists and turns happening throughout this book. You weren’t sure what was going to happen. I love alpha males and a strong female in my books. The side characters were great too.
Overall the story flowed nicely, but at times it was confusing to follow or the timeline was wrong, but those could be easy fixed! I feel the end of the book went more smoothly.
I can’t wait to see when happens in the next book! The end has you wondering what could possibly happen next!!
Overall the story flowed nicely, but at times it was confusing to follow or the timeline was wrong, but those could be easy fixed! I feel the end of the book went more smoothly.
I can’t wait to see when happens in the next book! The end has you wondering what could possibly happen next!!
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