A Treachery of Curses

A Treason of Magic #2

by Melissa Marr

Destiny, love, and duty collide when a Hunter-in-Training must choose between the prince who stole her heart and her duty to protect against the faery realm in this lush historical fantasy by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Marr.

I am the Hunter-in-Training, waiting for a fate I do not want to ever inherit.

Rylan Fleuriste comes from a lineage of noble ancestors who’ve safeguarded their lands from monsters. Her duty is to the Hunters. There is no room for heart-mates—no matter the strength of her passion for the crown prince Alaric or the beautiful Anders.

But when Anders is murdered—the second woman to die under the strangest of circumstances—Rylan’s mission becomes personal. And with the Hunter line at risk, Rylan is forced to secure an arranged marriage to continue the line should the beast lurking in the realm defeat her.

As more victims are killed and the palace itself comes under siege, Rylan is plunged into a battle against evil. Now she must choose between a love she has longed for and her duty to the Fleuriste line. Each choice could come with a risk.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

296 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication November 17, 2026

About the author

Melissa Marr writes fiction for adults, teens, and children. Her books have been translated into 28 languages and been bestsellers in the US (NY Times, LA Times, USA Today, Wall Street Journal) as well as overseas. Wicked Lovely, her debut novel, was an instant New York Times bestseller and evolved into an internationally bestselling multi-book series with a myriad of accolades.

In 2024 she released a queer fantasy (Remedial Magic via Bramble), a picturebook about a wee one and his two moms (Family is Family via Penguin), and a DC Comics graphic novel about teen Harley & Ivy (The Strange Adventures of Harleen & Harley).

An Illumicrate edition of 6 Wicked Lovely books will release in 2025.

If she's not writing, you can find her in a kayak or on a trail with her wife.

Reviews

[Lenore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Melissa Mar and publisher for allowing me to read this story early for review.
Honestly, I was immediately drawn in it has a Pride, Prejudice (and zombies) feel to it but with Fae beasts. This is definitely something a fan of the author's prior works can enjoy. It has some paranormal, mystery and romance.
There were a couple of minor ideas that were repeated paragraphs apart that were a little repetitive but otherwise it was pretty easy to follow along with the story even though this was Book two in a series.
I was almost mad at the end but it came through with a different, but happy final ending than I thought and I'm not entirely sure if I love it 100%, but I did really enjoy it and read it all in about one sitting.
The world itself I have a couple of questions about like how does the Duke have fae blood but Faye that look like people aren't allowed to be on this side of the gate and then there's the cat sith that's following her and the Queen's daughter that's interested in her beyond protecting her (?) so I wonder if it's crumbs for future stories.
It wasn't over the top cheesy or dark and hearts it was enjoyable overall.

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very soft 3.

Desperate to fulfill her duty to the Hunter line, Rylan sets out to find a suitable spouse all the while sacrificing her heart as she can never truly be with the one she loves most. If the marriage market wasnt already bad she has to grapple with the fact that someone, or something, seems to be killing those closest to her and if she’s not careful she may find herself as the next target.

I have to begin with acknowledging I did not know this was a sequel when I received the ARC. That being said this is more of a stand alone that connects to the other story vs a true continuation of that original tale. I was a little lost on the world building which is what led me to discover this error in order but other than that it was easy to make sense of the characters and threat in this story.

Unfortunately I couldn’t connect to anything. Rylan is fine and while I understood her struggle with duty vs love it seemed odd that she had this over abundance of lovers to keep her comfortable and willing to seduce at a moments notice to secure a proposal without really caring about how that could affect Alaric. She makes it no secret but wants to hear nothing of his own which is fine if that works for them but it seemed like there was a lot of repetition there so we didn’t forget but supposed to root for her to end up with the Prince. Their scenes were nice and I felt for them more near the end and I’m all for a forbidden romance but I didn’t really understand the problem that was keeping them apart to be as dire as it was.

The plot itself is slow and all or nothing at times. The Fae are interesting but so background to the will they won’t they or the mystery of the deaths that it almost seemed like an afterthought. With the creepiness of the thing hunting her I really wish we got more of that to haunt the book but we only have it when we need and get rid of it as soon as we don’t without any real feeling of resolution.

Not too much of a fan of this one and again I’m coming at it as a reader who missed the first book but ultimately I have no intention to read it after this glimpse into the series.

**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**

[Margaret Lockhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was something quietly captivating about *A Treachery of Curses*. It wasn't just the magic or the mystery that kept me turning the pages—it was Rylan's constant struggle between following her heart and honoring the duty she'd been born into. From the very beginning, you can feel the weight of the expectations placed on her, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.

I especially loved how emotional the story felt. The romance wasn't simple or predictable, and I appreciated that every relationship carried real consequences. Rylan's feelings for Alaric and Anders added so much depth to the story, and after Anders' death, the grief and determination driving Rylan felt genuine. It made the mystery surrounding the murders even more compelling because it became deeply personal rather than just another plot point.

Melissa Marr also created such an atmospheric world. The blend of court politics, dangerous fae, ancient family duties, and lingering curses gave the story a rich, almost haunting feel. I enjoyed uncovering the secrets alongside Rylan, and every new revelation made me even more curious about what was really happening behind the palace walls.

The pacing slowed a little in a few places, and I would have loved to spend a bit more time with some of the supporting characters, but neither of those things took away from how invested I was in the story. The emotional stakes stayed high throughout, and I genuinely wanted to know how Rylan's journey would end.

Overall, *A Treachery of Curses* was a beautiful mix of fantasy, mystery, romance, and sacrifice. It asks what you're willing to give up for love, for family, and for the duty you've carried your entire life. While it wasn't a perfect five-star read for me, it was one that kept me emotionally invested from beginning to end, and I'm really glad I picked it up.

[Elvan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and the publisher for allowing me to read this book as an ARC. The review below has minor spoilers, so proceed at your own risk. I haven't read the first book and picked this up as a standalone, perhaps my main question is answered in the prior book but regardless, I was able to follow the book without much problem.

I enjoyed reading this book, it is on the shorter side and it has been a good read for me in a month where I was busier than usual. The main premise of the book is enjoyable but the worldbuilding and the plot details are on the lighter side. The characters were fun to read, the main side-kick is a man after my own heart.

My biggest issue with the material was mainly the execution of the idea. The author chose to justify certain actions such as running to meet with MC's sister by saying things like "my recent visits to the manor allows me to know where I am going" (paraphrasing) or when the MMC wraps his arms around her, pointing out that he avoids her injuries. I think the readers usually assume these to be true anyway. It is something I often catch myself and others doing, trying to demonstrate that you did not forget your own writing from a few pages ago but it comes across as unnecessary. Especially when there is one very specific issue of needing steel to touch skin to see through glamours, why isn't everyone weating steel bracelets or earrings, at least the nobility if it is that simple? Spending time explaining obvious expectations and missing major worldbuilding rules just took me out of the story towards the end.

The constant repetition of "mission" as a word was also slightly annoying. Overall this book could have been much stronger with another round of editing. Still an enjoyable read, regardless. Absolutely worth your time if you are looking for light reading.

[Keeley Ribchester · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having really enjoyed A Treason of Magic, I was so excited to return to Melissa Marr’s magical world with A Treachery of Curses, and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Melissa Marr once again delivers a richly imagined fantasy filled with intricate court politics, dangerous magic, impossible choices, and characters who constantly find themselves torn between love and duty. The world building remains one of the strongest aspects of the series, feeling both unique and immersive without ever losing sight of the emotional stakes.
I really enjoyed following the new perspective in this instalment. While it took a little time to adjust after the first book, the fresh viewpoint added new layers to the story and expanded the world in a way that kept me invested. The mystery, betrayals, and shifting alliances kept the pages turning, and I loved watching the characters navigate impossible decisions where there was rarely a clear right answer.
The pacing slows slightly in places as the political intrigue unfolds, but the detailed storytelling and satisfying twists more than make up for it. Melissa Marr has created a fantasy series that balances magic, romance, mystery, and duty beautifully, leaving me eager to see where the story goes next.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with fae politics, morally grey characters, layered magic systems, and slow burning intrigue, I highly recommend picking this series up.
Perfect for fans of Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett, One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig, The Cruel Prince by Holly Black

[Shanda Laving · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of A Treachery of Curses in exchange for an honest review.

This was an interesting fantasy with a compelling premise, although it did take me a while to really settle into the story.

One of the things that held me back from connecting with the book more was Rylan herself. I struggled with some of the choices she made, particularly her determination to handle everything alone even when she clearly needed help. I usually enjoy a fiercely independent FMC, but there were times when Rylan’s refusal to rely on the people around her felt less like strength and more like stubbornness that potentially put others at risk. Rather than making her feel more badass to me, some of those decisions came across as frustrating and, at times, a little selfish.

That said, once the story found its rhythm, I enjoyed the mystery surrounding the murders and the growing threat to the realm. The historical fantasy setting, curses, faery elements and Hunter lore made for an intriguing world, and there was enough happening to keep me interested in discovering how everything would unfold.

Overall, A Treachery of Curses was an enjoyable read with an interesting concept, but the slower beginning and my difficulty connecting with Rylan kept it from being a higher-rated book for me.

[Nat (readwriteteach_repeat) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been in love with The Wicked Lovely series ever since I first read them. No other series has ever hooked me in quite like they did. So, when I saw Melissa Marr I immediately grabbed the ARC (huge thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for the chance).

Little did I know A Treachery of Curses is actually book two in the series. Oops. Thankfully it was standalone enough that I could get into the world and largely figure out what had happened in book one.

Maybe it's similar to why I can never bring myself to reread ACOTAR. I'm terrified it won't live up to the emotional stranglehold it still has me in - and I think it's the same here. This wasn't the same writing I remember devouring. It didn't give the same high stakes, all-consuming romantic angst, and emotional sinkholes that would have you feeling numb and lost... it was (for want of a better word) bland. Everything was resolved too quickly. Too easily. The romance plot was messy. SO messy. Like I didn't care who she ended up with messy.

Such potential. It just didn't quite hit the mark for me - not when there's already so much romantasy out there bringing so much.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Treachery of Curses is a beautifully nostalgic and refreshingly unique blend of historical drama and rich magic that grips you from the very first page. The story follows Rylan, a Hunter in Training who must make the ultimate sacrifice; giving up her love for Crown Prince Alaric to secure her family's lineage. When a series of brutal murders begins, Rylan is thrust into the Hunt despite lacking her sister's magical powers, forcing her to rely on her wits, family secrets, and unexpected allies to survive. The author's writing style is effortlessly engaging, weaving a fascinating magic system into a historical setting that feels both comforting and entirely new. With a perfectly executed ending that wraps up the journey beautifully, this captivating tale is an absolute must read that will leave you immediately searching for the author’s other works and eager to hand a copy to your closest friends.

[Maddie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unfortunately I do not think this was for me. I didn’t know this was second in a series, so I did listen to the audiobook for A Treason of Magic first (phenomenal narrator). Maybe I would’ve liked this more on audio. Personally I think this would be fine to read without having read the first book, it seemed like more of an interconnected standalone rather than a true series

I appreciate the classic faery folklore, mystery and historical fiction setting, but overall I was just not excited about any of the plot or love interest(s). :/ the pacing felt wacky and like too much was going on but at the same time nothing was happening.

If there was no explicit scenes, I’d say this would be a good YA novel and may appeal more to a younger audience. It just seemed a little immature for lack of a better word.

Thank you netgally & 47 North for the eARC

[Polina · Rating 3 out of 5]

* Advance reader copy from Netgalley

I was not aware that this is the second book in a series, but the work and characters were not confusing or too overwhelming to continue the story. The vibe is modern Pride and Prejudice or Bridgerton with murder mystery developing and driving the story. It was a light read and not much spice which was great. I was not convinced by FMC’s life choices and her brake up with Alaric. The arguments didn’t seem strong enough and the triangle with Konrad was very weak. I think the constant reminder of those arguments through the book became a drag for me. It was a different type of book which I wouldn’t normally pick, however I enjoyed some parts of it like the Fairies and the world building s well as the Victorian era vibe.

[RachelReadstheRoom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, 47North, and NetGalley for the ARC. I really enjoyed this story! The decision between duty and the heart’s desire. Family over everything. Rylan lives near the border between the human and faerie lands. There’s an accord in place between the human queen and faerie queen to keep the faerie out of the human land, but some faeries don’t want to stay tucked away any longer. Mysterious deaths begin to occur that hit a little too close to home. Is the entire Hunter line at risk? Can love conquer all?

This book features found family, fake engagements, forced proximity, magic, and a strong FMC. Once the group all came together at the palace, I couldn’t put the book down.

[Angiewagg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Destiny, love, and duty collide when a Hunter-in-Training must choose between the prince who stole her heart and her duty to protect against the faery realm in this lush historical fantasy by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Marr.
I was so emotional during this book. Their love story isn't simple.
When Ander' passed away you could fill the grief that was felt by everyone.
Which made the murders even more intriguing and a need to find out who commited them.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[FerryLassReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Melissa Marr and NetGalley for the ARC of A Treachery of Curses.
I didn’t realise until I started reading that this was the second book in the series, but thankfully, that didn’t hinder my understanding of the story at all. It was a fun, fast-paced read with an intriguing murder mystery set against a fantasy backdrop.
I really enjoyed the combination of mystery and fantasy, although at times I found some of the themes and messages a little repetitive, as they were reiterated throughout the story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and entertaining read, especially if you’re looking for a murder mystery with a magical twist!

[FootnotesAndDragons · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐
Thanks to NetGalley, 47 North and Melissa Marr for the eARC. Opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the way the characters' positions within society were established, but the lack of world-building left me wanting more context, atmosphere and geit. The conflict of duty vs heart worked well in the regency-esque setting.
The plot worked, but some resolutions felt very convenient (almost to the point of YA), while other plot points lacked the context needed for me to connect or for the characters to appropriately react.
Overall, it was enjoyable, but ultimately didn't do much to distinguish itself from the sea of romantasy being produced.

[Isobel W · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Melissa Marr and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy.

This was a nice conclusion to the duet. It didn’t quite live up to the first book, but it was lovely to see the story wrap up with a HEA for all the characters (that survived).

As with the first book, it has some pacing issues and a lot of repetition, but the story and world building are really enjoyable. I hope Melissa expands on this universe with other stories.

Spice level: 🌶️/5

[Debbie Ballard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading the mesmerizing and spellbinding paranormal story. Even though Rylan loves Prince Alaric, she knows there is no future for the because Rylan is the hunter in training and fae are trying to kill Rylan, but there seems to be a fae, Dara, helping Rylan. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written full of suspense and intrigue, and another must read riveting story by the awesome author, Melissa Marr.

[BookishKB]

🧚‍♀️⚔️ A Treachery of Curses ⚔️🧚‍♀️

📖 Bookish Thoughts

My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.

🖤 What to Expect
• Fae Fantasy
• Historical Fantasy
• Love Triangle
• Arranged Marriage
• Cursed Magic
• Monster Hunters
• Slow Burn Romance
_ _ __

📅 Pub Date: November 17, 2026
Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for the advanced copy.

[betbee_bookdragon · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
There were parts of this book that I loved. The historical/regency feel as done perfect, and most of the characters were great. The end was just what it needed! The only bit that bugged me was the repetitive "for the family line!!!" Take a couple of those out, and we are in perfection land!

[KelseyReadsABunch · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Treachery of Curses was a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of magic, twists, and interesting characters.

I really enjoyed the darker fairy tale vibe, and it kept me hooked to the end.

Definitely worth checking out if you like fantasy.

[Ines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher, 47North, and the author, Melissa Marr, for letting me read an ARC of this book.

How did I not know this was book 2? Okay, but despite not knowing, it was so easy to get into the story and follow, but now I need to read book 1 to get caught up.

The book is very interesting, it's like a historical romance crossed with a whodunnit crossed with fantasy. At first I wasn't sure, but the book was very enjoyable.

The story follows Rylan, who is a Hunter-in-Training. Her twin sister, Gabrielle, is the Hunter who is meant to protect humans from faeries by hunting any faeries who cross between the two worlds and hunt humans. So that means some faeries, like the cat sith, are allowed in human realm so long as they cause no harm.

Rylan and Prince Alaric are childhood friends and lovers in a story where he wants to be with her, but she is convinced that if anything happens to her sister, she becomes the next Hunter and needs to birth children next in line to her legacy, which coincides with having royal heirs. So that romance? It won't really work.

Within the story, people start dying and Rylan needs to figure out why. She doesn't want to involve her sister in the investigation, as the Hunter is preparing for her own wedding ceremony, so she starts investigating the deaths. It starts to spiral and it turns out that Rylan is dealing with a killer she cannot identify or defeat.

It was a very enjoyable, fast-paced read. There were some elements that repeated themselves, but nothing major.

[Merlyn Fereira · Rating 1 out of 5]

The publisher on NetGalley didn't mention this one was a part of a series. I was so mad at myself and at the publisher for not checking Goodreads if this was part of a series