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The Blood Curse
Sixteen-year-old Lorelei Hallmore, newly awakened to the power of her ancestors, wants two simple things: to blend in at her new high school, where magic is hidden, and to finally forget her ex-boyfriend John Black. But when her gift of sight shows her a premonition of her own death, entwined with six others beneath the coming blood moon, Lorelai’s attempt at normalcy shatters. Determined to uncover the truth, she turns to her brother for help, only to unleash an unstable ancient magic that twists her memories and draws her into the deadly curse. Now trapped between worlds and hunted by the man who cast it, Lorelei and the others must find a way to fight this evil and to save themselves from being cursed forever.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 20, 2026
I am grateful that I got an ARC of this book.
This book is so good! I could not set the book down! There are so many twists and turns that I was not expecting as I was reading. There is so much good and unique world building that has happened throughout the book. All of the characters are so unique and different from each other and it was so cool to see what happened next to them. I can’t wait to see what happens to them next!
This book is so good! I could not set the book down! There are so many twists and turns that I was not expecting as I was reading. There is so much good and unique world building that has happened throughout the book. All of the characters are so unique and different from each other and it was so cool to see what happened next to them. I can’t wait to see what happens to them next!
May 12, 2026
A Perfect mix of dark academia, high stakes, portal worlds, dark curses, and hidden magic! The story keeps you pulled in and wanting to know what happens next. The ending left me with so many questions and I can’t wait for the next book!
No spice romance 🙌🏻💕
No spice romance 🙌🏻💕
June 29, 2026
I genuinely enjoyed this book, but life got in the way, pushing out my reading time way more than I'd have liked.
I can honestly say I've never read a book like this before.
The characters were well written, believable, and likeable. I loved the dynamic between the MMC and FMC, as well as the FMC and her best friend. You don't often see books with friendships like that written. I also love how each MC in the group of 7 had their own backstory, history, and friendships we got to glimpse of throughout the book.
I loved how you got multiple POVs throughout, getting to see key moments playing out from the MCs as well as the FMC's family. My only problem with this was that it got confusing at times since the chapters or sections were not labeled or separated in any way, so it occasionally caught me off guard when the POV switched. This is not a deal breaker, though, because it did not affect my experience or the story at all.
The story was well written, giving us enough to satisfy but also leaving us needing to know what happened next.
I will say, the Vasquez sisters threw some plot twists at me that I did not see coming. There were moments where I thought I knew what was going to happen, and they took the story in a completely different direction.
It was a good read, and I am excited to see what happens in book two. The Vasquez sisters left us on a HUGE cliffhanger. I kept clicking my screen, waiting for it to flip to the next page because THAT couldn't be the end!
Thank you to H.M. Vasquez for allowing me to be part of your ARC team. I was genuinely surprised by the story. I can't wait to see where you take this in the next book.
I can honestly say I've never read a book like this before.
The characters were well written, believable, and likeable. I loved the dynamic between the MMC and FMC, as well as the FMC and her best friend. You don't often see books with friendships like that written. I also love how each MC in the group of 7 had their own backstory, history, and friendships we got to glimpse of throughout the book.
I loved how you got multiple POVs throughout, getting to see key moments playing out from the MCs as well as the FMC's family. My only problem with this was that it got confusing at times since the chapters or sections were not labeled or separated in any way, so it occasionally caught me off guard when the POV switched. This is not a deal breaker, though, because it did not affect my experience or the story at all.
The story was well written, giving us enough to satisfy but also leaving us needing to know what happened next.
I will say, the Vasquez sisters threw some plot twists at me that I did not see coming. There were moments where I thought I knew what was going to happen, and they took the story in a completely different direction.
It was a good read, and I am excited to see what happens in book two. The Vasquez sisters left us on a HUGE cliffhanger. I kept clicking my screen, waiting for it to flip to the next page because THAT couldn't be the end!
Thank you to H.M. Vasquez for allowing me to be part of your ARC team. I was genuinely surprised by the story. I can't wait to see where you take this in the next book.
April 25, 2026
There’s something about witches, curses, magical realms, and interesting characters that pulls me in every time.
The Blood Curse by H&M Vasquez brings a world that is rife with magic and power, a plot that reveals itself little by little, and characters that keep you guessing about their nature and loyalty. I found myself constantly trying to piece things together and figure out what the heck was going on!
And the ending… 🤯 I’m still trying to process it!!
Let’s just say it leaves the door open and I’m definitely curious as to what happens next. This book feels like the beginning of something bigger and I’m intrigued to see how it all unfolds.
Grateful to be part of the early read for this one!! 🖤🍷📚🪄🩸📖🕯️🖤
#Bookstagram #DarkFantasy #ARCReview #FantasyReads
The Blood Curse by H&M Vasquez brings a world that is rife with magic and power, a plot that reveals itself little by little, and characters that keep you guessing about their nature and loyalty. I found myself constantly trying to piece things together and figure out what the heck was going on!
And the ending… 🤯 I’m still trying to process it!!
Let’s just say it leaves the door open and I’m definitely curious as to what happens next. This book feels like the beginning of something bigger and I’m intrigued to see how it all unfolds.
Grateful to be part of the early read for this one!! 🖤🍷📚🪄🩸📖🕯️🖤
#Bookstagram #DarkFantasy #ARCReview #FantasyReads
May 15, 2026
Thank you to H&M Vasquez for the ARC of The Blood Curse in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
The Blood Curse by H&M Vasquez is a gripping, fast paced YA fantasy that completely pulled me in from the very first chapter with the witchy vibes, large cast of great characters and dark academia setting.
If you love dark academia filled with magic, mystery, and high stakes, this one absolutely delivers. It is spice free but packed with plot, intrigue, and a constant sense of danger that kept me turning pages.
The story follows Lorelei, a heroine who is impossible not to love. She is brave, powerful, and deeply compassionate, with a strong moral compass that guides her even when things get dark. Her diverse magical powers and premonitions add such an interesting layer to the story, and her willingness to sacrifice for the people she loves made her stand out even more.
A dark curse is coming for Lorelei and six of her friends, and they are being hunted by terrifying men who have an unknown dark agenda. The question of whether they can break the curse or will be taken down one by one kept me hooked the entire time and I definitely need to continue the series to find out how this one is resolved.
With dark magic, strong character dynamics, and tons of plot, this book is such a fun and addictive read. The large cast of friends and family adds depth to the story without ever feeling overwhelming. If you are looking for a plot heavy YA fantasy with dark academia vibes and a lovable, strong heroine, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
The Blood Curse by H&M Vasquez is a gripping, fast paced YA fantasy that completely pulled me in from the very first chapter with the witchy vibes, large cast of great characters and dark academia setting.
If you love dark academia filled with magic, mystery, and high stakes, this one absolutely delivers. It is spice free but packed with plot, intrigue, and a constant sense of danger that kept me turning pages.
The story follows Lorelei, a heroine who is impossible not to love. She is brave, powerful, and deeply compassionate, with a strong moral compass that guides her even when things get dark. Her diverse magical powers and premonitions add such an interesting layer to the story, and her willingness to sacrifice for the people she loves made her stand out even more.
A dark curse is coming for Lorelei and six of her friends, and they are being hunted by terrifying men who have an unknown dark agenda. The question of whether they can break the curse or will be taken down one by one kept me hooked the entire time and I definitely need to continue the series to find out how this one is resolved.
With dark magic, strong character dynamics, and tons of plot, this book is such a fun and addictive read. The large cast of friends and family adds depth to the story without ever feeling overwhelming. If you are looking for a plot heavy YA fantasy with dark academia vibes and a lovable, strong heroine, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
April 25, 2026
Dark academia, a witch discovering her power, a fire starter, a secret curse, a blood tree… it sounds like the setup for a great story, right? Well, sister duo H&M Vasquez already delivered it. Being on the street team for this book has been such a fun experience, and I was thrilled to finally get my hands on the ARC earlier this month.
The Blood Curse (Book #1 in The Cursed Series) is a YA fantasy debut that follows Lorelei Hallmore, a young witch just coming into her abilities. When she accidentally unleashes an ancient, memory-twisting magic, she and five others become entangled in a deadly curse. The story leans into dark fantasy vibes with an atmospheric, high-stakes plot that kept me flipping pages way past my bedtime.
If you enjoy intricate magic systems, dark academia settings, and witchy adventures, this one should be on your radar. I especially loved the found(ish) family dynamics and the second-chance romance plot that was present, but never overshadowed the main storyline. The whole book felt like Charmed meets Supernatural, in the best possible way.
And that ending. I have so many questions, and I’m convinced that’s exactly how the authors want it. The final chapters set up the sequel perfectly, leaving me mind-blown and already desperate for the next installment.
The Blood Curse (Book #1 in The Cursed Series) is a YA fantasy debut that follows Lorelei Hallmore, a young witch just coming into her abilities. When she accidentally unleashes an ancient, memory-twisting magic, she and five others become entangled in a deadly curse. The story leans into dark fantasy vibes with an atmospheric, high-stakes plot that kept me flipping pages way past my bedtime.
If you enjoy intricate magic systems, dark academia settings, and witchy adventures, this one should be on your radar. I especially loved the found(ish) family dynamics and the second-chance romance plot that was present, but never overshadowed the main storyline. The whole book felt like Charmed meets Supernatural, in the best possible way.
And that ending. I have so many questions, and I’m convinced that’s exactly how the authors want it. The final chapters set up the sequel perfectly, leaving me mind-blown and already desperate for the next installment.
April 25, 2026
In this amazing young adult novel blends elements of witchcraft and curses into a thrilling narrative. The story revolves around seven high school students, with Darren being the only one no longer attending. Each grapples with their magical abilities, which they largely refuse to acknowledge—except for Lorelei, who is deeply in tune with her instincts regarding magic.
As Lorelei transitions to a regular, non-magical school, she begins to experience unexplainable occurrences. These strange events plunge all seven friends into a nightmare that forces them to confront their fears. Initially paralyzed by denial, they struggle to fight back against the darkness that threatens them. However, Lorelei’s unwavering determination to resist the dark forces inspires the others to join her in the fight.
The tension escalates as the group realizes their only chance for survival is to stand with Lorelei. Yet, the nightmare is far from over, and the gripping cliffhanger leaves readers speculating about what might come next. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with unexpected twists that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.
As Lorelei transitions to a regular, non-magical school, she begins to experience unexplainable occurrences. These strange events plunge all seven friends into a nightmare that forces them to confront their fears. Initially paralyzed by denial, they struggle to fight back against the darkness that threatens them. However, Lorelei’s unwavering determination to resist the dark forces inspires the others to join her in the fight.
The tension escalates as the group realizes their only chance for survival is to stand with Lorelei. Yet, the nightmare is far from over, and the gripping cliffhanger leaves readers speculating about what might come next. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with unexpected twists that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.
May 29, 2026
This book was such a fun read! I got pulled into the story really quickly and found myself wanting to know more about the curse, the prophecy, and all the secrets that kept popping up along the way. There was always something happening, so I never felt bored.
I really liked Lorelei and enjoyed following her as she tried to figure everything out while dealing with powers she didn't fully understand. The mix of witches, magic, family secrets, and danger made it hard to put down. I loved the mystery surrounding the blood moon prophecy and trying to piece everything together alongside the characters.
The romance isn't the main focus of the book, but I still enjoyed it. There's a second-chance romance element that added some extra emotional depth to the story without taking away from the fantasy plot. It felt like a nice addition rather than something that overshadowed all the magic and action.
Overall, if you love YA fantasy with witches, curses, prophecies, family secrets, and a little romance mixed in, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try. I'm excited to see where the series goes next!
That ending thought had me like 😱
I really liked Lorelei and enjoyed following her as she tried to figure everything out while dealing with powers she didn't fully understand. The mix of witches, magic, family secrets, and danger made it hard to put down. I loved the mystery surrounding the blood moon prophecy and trying to piece everything together alongside the characters.
The romance isn't the main focus of the book, but I still enjoyed it. There's a second-chance romance element that added some extra emotional depth to the story without taking away from the fantasy plot. It felt like a nice addition rather than something that overshadowed all the magic and action.
Overall, if you love YA fantasy with witches, curses, prophecies, family secrets, and a little romance mixed in, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try. I'm excited to see where the series goes next!
That ending thought had me like 😱
May 15, 2026
I want to preface this review by saying I really did enjoy this book. The only reason I gave it three stars was because I felt that it was a little too short to have so much information. It was a little hard to follow at times, but I also know that that could be reader error. The plot was really interesting and the magic system is really cool as well. I loved Lorelai’s family dynamic, and how close she was with her brother Michael. I also think the high school romance is really well represented, with a lot of hot and cold moments. I am really excited to see where this goes next. I am slightly offended at the huge cliff hanger at the end! Hopefully the next one will be out soon! I would also love to see maybe multiple povs in the next one, instead of the third person. Overall I definitely would recommend this book, especially if you like dark twists and turns! Thank you to H & M Vasquez for this arc opportunity!
May 8, 2026
Fun fast paced YA fantasy about a young witch coming into her magical powers. Lorelei is attending high school for the first time and a curse is inadvertently unleashed on her and her friends.
The plot is fast past with some world building but not an overwhelming amount. Interesting characters that evolve throughout the story and a cliff hanger ending that leaves you wanting more!!Would be perfect for the first time fantasy reader. If you like witches, magical curses, hidden magic and found family this one is for you! Thank you to the authors for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of your book!
The plot is fast past with some world building but not an overwhelming amount. Interesting characters that evolve throughout the story and a cliff hanger ending that leaves you wanting more!!Would be perfect for the first time fantasy reader. If you like witches, magical curses, hidden magic and found family this one is for you! Thank you to the authors for the opportunity to review an advanced copy of your book!
May 24, 2026
Such an intriguing read! This was very much a fast-paced story, where so many twists and turns came about, but there’s still so much left to discover in upcoming books in the series. I enjoyed the dark academia vibes, as well as the third person POV. I never really knew what was going to happen next, and I still have no idea where H&M will take us in book two. Great for fans of magical fantasy, suspenseful moments, and the moody dark academia vibes.
May 15, 2026
Interesting book. I enjoyed the magic and world building.
June 8, 2026
ya read
I’m Not huge into fantasy and younger characters but this book was really good and well written. It kept me reading and wanting to know what was going to happen. The no spice was different for my reading. It’s intriguing and keeps your interest. The sisters wrote such a great book!
I’m Not huge into fantasy and younger characters but this book was really good and well written. It kept me reading and wanting to know what was going to happen. The no spice was different for my reading. It’s intriguing and keeps your interest. The sisters wrote such a great book!
May 31, 2026
It’s been over a week, & I’m still thinking about The Blood Curse! H.M. Vasquez‘s YA debut is stunning! If you’re looking for a unique, Harry Potteresque dark academia with magic, curses, portals, found family, & characters you grow to truly love, this is it. It’s also a great option for those wanting a compelling story without the spice. I loved being transported into this magical world with a touch of enemies-to-lovers romance, plenty of twists, & an action-packed quest for answers.
Sixteen-year-old Lorelei Hallmore is the kind of strong heroine I can cheer for; she’s smart, brave, & loves with her whole heart. Though she’s just coming into her ancestors’ magical powers, she longs for a normal high school experience with her best friend, Roby, & is trying to forget the boy she met last summer, John Black. But on her first day of school, she discovers John attends the same school & she has a terrifying vision of her death along with six others during the Blood Moon. While searching for answers, Lorelei & her brother accidentally unleash a powerful magic that twists her memory & opens the door to an evil man who curses her & the six others she foresaw. Desperate to break the curse, Lorelei, Roby, John, & their new friends embark on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! Forced to work together, I loved John & Lorelei’s undercurrent of attraction that simmers throughout the story. I also loved getting to know Roby, Sam, Hope, Steve, & Darren. Bound by the same curse, they put aside their differences to work together, & each brings something unique to the story. I can’t wait to learn more about them.
The setting is both creative & creepy. I loved the rainy, foggy atmosphere, the blood moon, & the eerie portals they encounter. I loved the magic used in the story. While Lorelei is a witch, there aren’t a lot of occult references/practices & it’s very much a good versus evil battle. The mystery behind the curse is teased throughout, but many questions remain unanswered. The ending had me on pins & needles & now I’m desperate for book two!
Highly recommend to YA dark academy fans! I received an advanced copy, but also borrowed in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.
Sixteen-year-old Lorelei Hallmore is the kind of strong heroine I can cheer for; she’s smart, brave, & loves with her whole heart. Though she’s just coming into her ancestors’ magical powers, she longs for a normal high school experience with her best friend, Roby, & is trying to forget the boy she met last summer, John Black. But on her first day of school, she discovers John attends the same school & she has a terrifying vision of her death along with six others during the Blood Moon. While searching for answers, Lorelei & her brother accidentally unleash a powerful magic that twists her memory & opens the door to an evil man who curses her & the six others she foresaw. Desperate to break the curse, Lorelei, Roby, John, & their new friends embark on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! Forced to work together, I loved John & Lorelei’s undercurrent of attraction that simmers throughout the story. I also loved getting to know Roby, Sam, Hope, Steve, & Darren. Bound by the same curse, they put aside their differences to work together, & each brings something unique to the story. I can’t wait to learn more about them.
The setting is both creative & creepy. I loved the rainy, foggy atmosphere, the blood moon, & the eerie portals they encounter. I loved the magic used in the story. While Lorelei is a witch, there aren’t a lot of occult references/practices & it’s very much a good versus evil battle. The mystery behind the curse is teased throughout, but many questions remain unanswered. The ending had me on pins & needles & now I’m desperate for book two!
Highly recommend to YA dark academy fans! I received an advanced copy, but also borrowed in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own & voluntarily provided.
May 9, 2026
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮
*~ 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 3.5 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨 ~*
Lorelei Hallmore wants two things: to blend in at her new high school and get over her ex, John Black. When a premonition shows Lorelei her death along with six others beneath a blood moon, her chance at a normal life ends. She enlists the help of her brother as they try to uncover this mystery. In doing so, they unleash an ancient magic that draws Lorelei into a deadly curse... can her and the others fight the evil that hunts them before they are cursed forever... 🩸
What a wild ride this book was! Witches, magic, 2nd chance romance... I enjoyed this debut novel! ✨️
What I liked:
• The fast-paced action which kept me wanting to see what happens next.
• All the magic, it gave me Harry Potter vibes which I loved!
• The strength and courage that carried Lorelei through the tribulations of the events unfolding.
What didn’t work for me:
• A character's POV would shift in the middle of the page. I would be reading about what Lorelei was thinking and then it would shift to John. It was jarring and confusing at times.
• I wanted more world building and to learn more about the magic; I feel like we're thrown into the story without much explanation.
• Sometimes characters would disappear from a scene without any explanation and then reappear in a different scene.
What a fun debut YA novel! It does leave you on a cliffhanger, I'm very excited to see what the next book brings! I would definitely recommend! ✨️🩸
*~ 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 3.5 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨 ~*
Lorelei Hallmore wants two things: to blend in at her new high school and get over her ex, John Black. When a premonition shows Lorelei her death along with six others beneath a blood moon, her chance at a normal life ends. She enlists the help of her brother as they try to uncover this mystery. In doing so, they unleash an ancient magic that draws Lorelei into a deadly curse... can her and the others fight the evil that hunts them before they are cursed forever... 🩸
What a wild ride this book was! Witches, magic, 2nd chance romance... I enjoyed this debut novel! ✨️
What I liked:
• The fast-paced action which kept me wanting to see what happens next.
• All the magic, it gave me Harry Potter vibes which I loved!
• The strength and courage that carried Lorelei through the tribulations of the events unfolding.
What didn’t work for me:
• A character's POV would shift in the middle of the page. I would be reading about what Lorelei was thinking and then it would shift to John. It was jarring and confusing at times.
• I wanted more world building and to learn more about the magic; I feel like we're thrown into the story without much explanation.
• Sometimes characters would disappear from a scene without any explanation and then reappear in a different scene.
What a fun debut YA novel! It does leave you on a cliffhanger, I'm very excited to see what the next book brings! I would definitely recommend! ✨️🩸
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Blood Curse is the debute novel by the sister duo H&M Vasquez. The story follows Lorelei Hallmore, a teen coming into her powers while growing up in a magical family. Lorelei experiences visions and, inadvertently, awakens a Blood Curse that endangers herself and five of her classmates.
This is a dark academia, young adult, urban fantasy. It includes lost memories, intricate magic systems, deadly curses, fleeing peril, dark magic, and found family.
I enjoyed the character of Lorelei. As the story progressed, it became evident she is a fircely loyal friend and a formidable witch. I loved her relationships with Roby and her brother, Michael. The second-chance relationship with John was sweet, despite the danger surrounding them. I liked how John encouraged Lorelei and helped her see her potential.
The story ends on a HUGE cliffhanger and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book!
This was a really unique story and a terrific debut novel. The focus on world building, magic systems, and the Blood Curse was engrossing and the plot unfolded quickly.
Thank you, H&M Vasquez, for the opportunity to read an ARC and provide a voluntary review.
This is a dark academia, young adult, urban fantasy. It includes lost memories, intricate magic systems, deadly curses, fleeing peril, dark magic, and found family.
I enjoyed the character of Lorelei. As the story progressed, it became evident she is a fircely loyal friend and a formidable witch. I loved her relationships with Roby and her brother, Michael. The second-chance relationship with John was sweet, despite the danger surrounding them. I liked how John encouraged Lorelei and helped her see her potential.
The story ends on a HUGE cliffhanger and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book!
This was a really unique story and a terrific debut novel. The focus on world building, magic systems, and the Blood Curse was engrossing and the plot unfolded quickly.
Thank you, H&M Vasquez, for the opportunity to read an ARC and provide a voluntary review.
May 9, 2026
🕯️ Dark Academia
📖 YA Fantasy
🔮 Curses
🖤 Witches
💞 Second Chance Love
🏡 Found Family
Looking for a dark academia, YA fantasy, with a gripping plot and no spice - you're in the right place. Follow Lorelei Hallmore and her short-lived shot at a normal high school experience when her newly awakened magic causes a harrowing premonition that ultimately awakens a deadly blood curse. Now, her and her friends' lives hang in the balance as they fight to end this curse.
I loved watching Lorelei's character really step into her magic. We get to watch her go from fear and reluctance to being encouraged and confident in her abilities, thanks to John and her friends. Also, the use of spells and potions was really cool. I honestly got Halloween Town vibes with the portal jumping and the semi-mysterious Grams. Overall, this was an enjoyable and refreshing read. I look forward to continuing The Cursed Series!
Thank you so much to H&M Vasquez for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
📖 YA Fantasy
🔮 Curses
🖤 Witches
💞 Second Chance Love
🏡 Found Family
Looking for a dark academia, YA fantasy, with a gripping plot and no spice - you're in the right place. Follow Lorelei Hallmore and her short-lived shot at a normal high school experience when her newly awakened magic causes a harrowing premonition that ultimately awakens a deadly blood curse. Now, her and her friends' lives hang in the balance as they fight to end this curse.
I loved watching Lorelei's character really step into her magic. We get to watch her go from fear and reluctance to being encouraged and confident in her abilities, thanks to John and her friends. Also, the use of spells and potions was really cool. I honestly got Halloween Town vibes with the portal jumping and the semi-mysterious Grams. Overall, this was an enjoyable and refreshing read. I look forward to continuing The Cursed Series!
Thank you so much to H&M Vasquez for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"A dark curse so deep, it penetrates all and everything that surrounds it. With blood and the casting of this curse, it will be forever unbreakable, leaving the attended victims to be forever under the blood moon."
Lorelai Hallmore is born into a family of powerful witches who don't exactly "fit in" in their small town of Alchemy. When Lorelai attends highschool she finds herself face to face with more than just her insufferable ex-boyfriend. She accidentally releases a curse that is out to hunt her and five of her friends.
I loved the found family aspect to this book the most. The relationships that strengthen along a deadly journey and the power Lorelai is able to draw upon within herself.
Tropes you'll love:
💙 Witches and Curses
💙 Found Family
💙 YA Fantasy
💙 Second Chances
💙 Portal Magic
💙 Dark Academia
Lorelai Hallmore is born into a family of powerful witches who don't exactly "fit in" in their small town of Alchemy. When Lorelai attends highschool she finds herself face to face with more than just her insufferable ex-boyfriend. She accidentally releases a curse that is out to hunt her and five of her friends.
I loved the found family aspect to this book the most. The relationships that strengthen along a deadly journey and the power Lorelai is able to draw upon within herself.
Tropes you'll love:
💙 Witches and Curses
💙 Found Family
💙 YA Fantasy
💙 Second Chances
💙 Portal Magic
💙 Dark Academia
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
So I was super excited but also a little nervous to read this, because my day-one followers know I’ve been a bit wary about picking up a fantasy book, whew I did it yall lol
Lorelei is a witch who’s just coming into her powers, and like most new things, she hits a bit of a hiccup. But this one was so interesting and intriguing! There was some world building, but not too much. I did end up making a list of characters with quick notes for each (lol), but overall it was easy to keep up with. I also love that this book made me want to rewatch Charmed!
One of my favorite parts was the found-family aspect, that’s one of my favorite tropes. I also really enjoyed how John supported and encouraged Lorelei. It does end on a cliffhanger, though, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
July 16, 2026
This is a new author to me and a sister duo debut novel, and let me tell you, I am impressed! The world-building and magic elements were perfectly described and not overwhelming, which made me eager to know what may happen next. I loved seeing how Lorelei is loyal to her friends and family. Found family is always something I enjoy! Even though it started off slow, when it got interesting, it kept me on my toes. The only thing I would add is a clearer explanation of switching from the character’s POV, but it was minimal and overall easy to follow along. The cliffhanger made me eager to know what happens next!
May 5, 2026
This one kept me on my toes the entire time—I was constantly trying to figure out what was happening and who the villain was (and I still have questions 👀).
At times, the pacing and scene transitions felt a little confusing—like characters would disappear and suddenly be back—which made it harder to follow. But the mystery and tension kept me hooked.
It leans into dark academia vibes with witchy elements that aren’t overwhelming—more subtle, Harry Potter-adjacent energy. There’s also a darker edge to the magic, especially around the curses, with blood used in a more ritualistic, atmospheric way rather than anything overly graphic.
The writing is descriptive and moody, even if the flow was a bit tricky for me at times. Overall, a solid 4-star read that definitely keeps you guessing.
✨Curious as to what book 2 has in store!
At times, the pacing and scene transitions felt a little confusing—like characters would disappear and suddenly be back—which made it harder to follow. But the mystery and tension kept me hooked.
It leans into dark academia vibes with witchy elements that aren’t overwhelming—more subtle, Harry Potter-adjacent energy. There’s also a darker edge to the magic, especially around the curses, with blood used in a more ritualistic, atmospheric way rather than anything overly graphic.
The writing is descriptive and moody, even if the flow was a bit tricky for me at times. Overall, a solid 4-star read that definitely keeps you guessing.
✨Curious as to what book 2 has in store!
May 8, 2026
Oh how i love a second chance . This book completely consumed me . I was reading through the night. A really good urban fantasy romance. So easy to read and the family dynamics make you feel like a part of thr family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a YA Fantasy by debut sister authors.
For me this story started out slow, but once it picked up it had me on the edge of my seat.
The world building was fantastic and the intricate magic system was unique. The way the story unfolded kept me as a reader guessing on what was going to happen next and I’m practically mind-blown at the ending.
So much went into this story and I can already tell book 2 is set to be even better.
"I swiped this copy from the author, its now mine along with my opinions"
For me this story started out slow, but once it picked up it had me on the edge of my seat.
The world building was fantastic and the intricate magic system was unique. The way the story unfolded kept me as a reader guessing on what was going to happen next and I’m practically mind-blown at the ending.
So much went into this story and I can already tell book 2 is set to be even better.
"I swiped this copy from the author, its now mine along with my opinions"
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book! This is a YA Urban Fantasy that centers around Lorelei Hallmore as she navigates hidden magic, visions, missing memories, and a deadly blood curse. My favorite part about this story is the relationships Lorelei has. I am a sucker for a found family trope and this definitely is close to that. I specifically enjoyed Lorelei’s friendship with Roby and the sibling bond she shares with Michael. The stormy, dark‑academia setting gave the story a lot of depth, and the mysterious handwritten Blood Curse book added to the ominous vibes. The plot moves quickly and ends on a huge cliffhanger. This story has a lot of characters, which I sometimes struggled to keep straight and feel connected with, but overall I am so excited for book 2!
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