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The Outsider Girls #1
Olivia's Curse
She’s supposed to stay hidden. Falling for her best friend was never part of the plan.
Olivia has spent years tucked away on a remote ranch, hidden from a world that still isn’t safe and from a past that never really let her go. Staying quiet has always been easier. Safer.
But Michael has always been the exception. He’s her best friend, the boy who knows her silences and the parts of her she tries hardest to hide. He’s also the only one who knows how to bring her back when the dark gets too close.
Somewhere between growing up together and a thousand small moments, friendship becomes something deeper.
Because Michael is Olivia’s first love. And Olivia is his first for everything.
But love doesn’t make the past disappear. As buried secrets begin to unravel, Olivia is forced to face the truth about what was done to her, what Michael would risk to keep her safe, and the fear that loving him might destroy him too.
Olivia has spent years tucked away on a remote ranch, hidden from a world that still isn’t safe and from a past that never really let her go. Staying quiet has always been easier. Safer.
But Michael has always been the exception. He’s her best friend, the boy who knows her silences and the parts of her she tries hardest to hide. He’s also the only one who knows how to bring her back when the dark gets too close.
Somewhere between growing up together and a thousand small moments, friendship becomes something deeper.
Because Michael is Olivia’s first love. And Olivia is his first for everything.
But love doesn’t make the past disappear. As buried secrets begin to unravel, Olivia is forced to face the truth about what was done to her, what Michael would risk to keep her safe, and the fear that loving him might destroy him too.
506 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
About the author
Tatiana Machado
6 books221 followersTatiana Machado began writing short stories at eighteen and, after graduating from law school, brought her characters to life in her debut novel, All Because of Me.
Tatiana writes emotional romance filled with love, danger, humor, and characters who fight for their happy endings. Her stories are driven by heartbreak, hope, and the kind of first love that leaves a mark forever. She finds inspiration in quiet places and in late-night thoughts with just the right amount of chaos.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably watching horror movies, rewatching Gilmore Girls for the twentieth time, or planning her next trip.
She is currently writing more books set in the world of All Because of Me.
Tatiana writes emotional romance filled with love, danger, humor, and characters who fight for their happy endings. Her stories are driven by heartbreak, hope, and the kind of first love that leaves a mark forever. She finds inspiration in quiet places and in late-night thoughts with just the right amount of chaos.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably watching horror movies, rewatching Gilmore Girls for the twentieth time, or planning her next trip.
She is currently writing more books set in the world of All Because of Me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
August 7, 2026
🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹
You’re the dream, Olivia. 😭
Michael Williams is the absolute blueprint for a man who falls first and falls HARD. Loving her is literally his whole personality at this point! The longing and the emotional intimacy😍 I was blushing, giggling, and kicking my feet the entire time😅😅 he’s so protective and completely gone for her, while Olivia is just so stubborn and cute
Best friends to lovers carried out to perfection👏👏
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You’re the dream, Olivia. 😭
Michael Williams is the absolute blueprint for a man who falls first and falls HARD. Loving her is literally his whole personality at this point! The longing and the emotional intimacy😍 I was blushing, giggling, and kicking my feet the entire time😅😅 he’s so protective and completely gone for her, while Olivia is just so stubborn and cute
Best friends to lovers carried out to perfection👏👏
5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy
🌹ARC Review 🌹
•
Olivia’s Curse | Tatiana Machado
🗓️| Release Date | August 20, 2026
Preorder your copies now!
•
Review:
I’M CRYING!! AGAIN, I MIGHT ADD!! 😭 Tatiana did this to me with All Because of Me and somehow she managed to do it AGAIN with Olivia’s Curse. This book was everything I needed and so much more. Childhood best friends to first loves, the friendship, the love, the heartbreak IT HAD EVERYTHING. And that ending?! How can she just leave me on ANOTHER cliffhanger like that?! If anyone knows how to do a cliffhanger it’s my girl Tatiana. 😭😭 My heart is breaking for Michael, for Olivia, and for Jonathan. THE THREE MUSKETEERS. I want to talk about everything that happened, but my heart oh my heart needs a minute to process all of it first. I’ve already read it twice that’s why my review took so long 🤣🤭. Michael is literally everything a girl could want. He’s funny, caring, protective, spicyyyy 🌶️ and just the whole package. But the way he loves Olivia?! PLEASE. All I’m going to say is the freaking rose necklace. You can feel how deeply that man loves her in everything he does. And Olivia!! My girl is brave, outgoing, strong, and just the perfect amount of stubborn and just the perfect match for Michael. Overall, this book was AMAZING. I laughed, I swooned, I fell in love with these characters, and then Tatiana decided to rip my heart out and LEAVE ME THERE. 😭 I need the next book immediately because there is absolutely no way I’m supposed to just move on with my life after that ending!!!
Thank you so much for the arc read.
•
Olivia’s Curse | Tatiana Machado
🗓️| Release Date | August 20, 2026
Preorder your copies now!
•
Review:
I’M CRYING!! AGAIN, I MIGHT ADD!! 😭 Tatiana did this to me with All Because of Me and somehow she managed to do it AGAIN with Olivia’s Curse. This book was everything I needed and so much more. Childhood best friends to first loves, the friendship, the love, the heartbreak IT HAD EVERYTHING. And that ending?! How can she just leave me on ANOTHER cliffhanger like that?! If anyone knows how to do a cliffhanger it’s my girl Tatiana. 😭😭 My heart is breaking for Michael, for Olivia, and for Jonathan. THE THREE MUSKETEERS. I want to talk about everything that happened, but my heart oh my heart needs a minute to process all of it first. I’ve already read it twice that’s why my review took so long 🤣🤭. Michael is literally everything a girl could want. He’s funny, caring, protective, spicyyyy 🌶️ and just the whole package. But the way he loves Olivia?! PLEASE. All I’m going to say is the freaking rose necklace. You can feel how deeply that man loves her in everything he does. And Olivia!! My girl is brave, outgoing, strong, and just the perfect amount of stubborn and just the perfect match for Michael. Overall, this book was AMAZING. I laughed, I swooned, I fell in love with these characters, and then Tatiana decided to rip my heart out and LEAVE ME THERE. 😭 I need the next book immediately because there is absolutely no way I’m supposed to just move on with my life after that ending!!!
Thank you so much for the arc read.
August 7, 2026
I am not okay.
“I’m Red.”
“Your name’s a color?”
“No silly. My real name’s Olivia, but I like Red better.”
“I like Red better too.”
“You do?”
“Yeah, red’s my favorite color.”
Huh. That’s news to me.
From this moment I knew I was going to be addicted to the love Michael felt for Olivia. Their love feels so beautiful and real and it makes you feel all of the feelings.
But again, I am not okay.
How do I move on from this feeling? Where is the next book?
“I’m Red.”
“Your name’s a color?”
“No silly. My real name’s Olivia, but I like Red better.”
“I like Red better too.”
“You do?”
“Yeah, red’s my favorite color.”
Huh. That’s news to me.
From this moment I knew I was going to be addicted to the love Michael felt for Olivia. Their love feels so beautiful and real and it makes you feel all of the feelings.
But again, I am not okay.
How do I move on from this feeling? Where is the next book?
August 24, 2026
3.25 stars.
"Olivia's Curse" by Tatiana Machado is a friends-to-lovers, he-falls-first romance. This book was not for me, but I am clearly in the minority, so take my review with a grain of salt. I see why readers might like this book. It is high, high spice, a "he's remembered every little thing about her since the minute they met" type of fated-ish love story, but the rest of the narrative surrounding that left a lot to be desired for me personally. It took me a long, *long* while to get into this book. I just did not connect with the characters or what was going on at all. I did not care for the love story between Olivia (FMC) and Michael (MMC). I barely cared about the relationship between Olivia and her twin brother Jonathan. What other readers thought was sweet, I thought was corny and pretty cringeworthy. How many times do I need to hear about how Olivia tastes like strawberries? I got it after the first 20 times it was said. It wasn't until the 65% mark that something really worthwhile and compelling started happening. The end of the book is good, but the build-up is painfully slow with too much spice crammed in because there's really nothing else for the characters to do in this New World. The entire plot revolves around the three characters going to Denver to meet up with the uncle in this borderline post-apocalyptic hellscape they live in, so they plan for that, argue about the trip, wait around to leave for the trip, have s3x with each other over and over and over while they wait to leave for the trip, encounter people who are clearly bad guys with some sort of vendetta every 40% or so, etc. This book was long and it *felt* like it, too. I will reiterate that it ends strongly, but ends on a cliffhanger, and I likely won't continue the series. Again, I am clearly in the minority on this one, but I did not connect with it. Maybe the characters were too young, maybe some of the writing in the duller parts was too silly, maybe it's because a lot of it was shown but never fully explained about this "New World" they are in that left me a bit confused?? puzzled?? annoyed?? just say it??? I couldn't quite put a finger on it, but that's my honest take.
Thank you to Tatiana Machado and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Olivia's Curse" by Tatiana Machado is a friends-to-lovers, he-falls-first romance. This book was not for me, but I am clearly in the minority, so take my review with a grain of salt. I see why readers might like this book. It is high, high spice, a "he's remembered every little thing about her since the minute they met" type of fated-ish love story, but the rest of the narrative surrounding that left a lot to be desired for me personally. It took me a long, *long* while to get into this book. I just did not connect with the characters or what was going on at all. I did not care for the love story between Olivia (FMC) and Michael (MMC). I barely cared about the relationship between Olivia and her twin brother Jonathan. What other readers thought was sweet, I thought was corny and pretty cringeworthy. How many times do I need to hear about how Olivia tastes like strawberries? I got it after the first 20 times it was said. It wasn't until the 65% mark that something really worthwhile and compelling started happening. The end of the book is good, but the build-up is painfully slow with too much spice crammed in because there's really nothing else for the characters to do in this New World. The entire plot revolves around the three characters going to Denver to meet up with the uncle in this borderline post-apocalyptic hellscape they live in, so they plan for that, argue about the trip, wait around to leave for the trip, have s3x with each other over and over and over while they wait to leave for the trip, encounter people who are clearly bad guys with some sort of vendetta every 40% or so, etc. This book was long and it *felt* like it, too. I will reiterate that it ends strongly, but ends on a cliffhanger, and I likely won't continue the series. Again, I am clearly in the minority on this one, but I did not connect with it. Maybe the characters were too young, maybe some of the writing in the duller parts was too silly, maybe it's because a lot of it was shown but never fully explained about this "New World" they are in that left me a bit confused?? puzzled?? annoyed?? just say it??? I couldn't quite put a finger on it, but that's my honest take.
Thank you to Tatiana Machado and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
August 25, 2026
3.75🌟 | 3.5🌶️
This was such a sweet friends-to-lovers romance, and I really enjoyed watching Olivia and Michael’s relationship slowly shift from friendship into something more.
I loved that they already had so much history together because it made their connection feel natural. Michael being completely gone for Olivia, protective of her, and clearly loving her for years was definitely a highlight for me.
I also really liked the ranch setting and the mix of romance, suspense, and Olivia’s complicated past. The story took a little while to pull me in, and there were moments where I wanted a bit more depth, but I found myself becoming more invested as it went on. I especially enjoyed the friendships and family dynamics surrounding Olivia and Michael because they added another layer to the story.
And that ending?! I was NOT prepared. The final stretch had me completely hooked before leaving me with a cliffhanger that immediately made me want answers.
It took some time for this one to click, but by the end, I was l attached to these characters and their story.
~~~~
A huge thank you to Tatiana Machado and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
This was such a sweet friends-to-lovers romance, and I really enjoyed watching Olivia and Michael’s relationship slowly shift from friendship into something more.
I loved that they already had so much history together because it made their connection feel natural. Michael being completely gone for Olivia, protective of her, and clearly loving her for years was definitely a highlight for me.
I also really liked the ranch setting and the mix of romance, suspense, and Olivia’s complicated past. The story took a little while to pull me in, and there were moments where I wanted a bit more depth, but I found myself becoming more invested as it went on. I especially enjoyed the friendships and family dynamics surrounding Olivia and Michael because they added another layer to the story.
And that ending?! I was NOT prepared. The final stretch had me completely hooked before leaving me with a cliffhanger that immediately made me want answers.
It took some time for this one to click, but by the end, I was l attached to these characters and their story.
~~~~
A huge thank you to Tatiana Machado and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
August 25, 2026
"That's what soulmates are, right? When one half dies, the other can't hang on much longer."
You know when you watch a movie and you just want to scream at the characters because you have information they don't? Well, that was me the entire book, on the edge on my seat, wanting to scream at them, especially Michael, this poor guy.
What a rollercoaster of emotions! I've been hooked since All Because Of Me, and I thought I knew things that I actually didn't. WOW. Tatiana Machado doesn’t hold back. She gives you trauma, heartbreak, but also steamy and beautiful love stories where the characters would do anything for the people they love. Special shout out to chapter 20!
This dystopian series is one of my favorite, and I can't wait for Olivia's Wish and All Because Of Her. I need to continue the journey with them and hope for a happy ending.
I first read about the curse in All Because Of Me, where Michael thinks he's cursed: "Every woman close to me ends up hurt. I'm fucking cursed."
But in Olivia's Curse, Olivia thinks she's the cursed one: "Something bad always happens to the people I love."
Who's the cursed one?
You know when you watch a movie and you just want to scream at the characters because you have information they don't? Well, that was me the entire book, on the edge on my seat, wanting to scream at them, especially Michael, this poor guy.
What a rollercoaster of emotions! I've been hooked since All Because Of Me, and I thought I knew things that I actually didn't. WOW. Tatiana Machado doesn’t hold back. She gives you trauma, heartbreak, but also steamy and beautiful love stories where the characters would do anything for the people they love. Special shout out to chapter 20!
This dystopian series is one of my favorite, and I can't wait for Olivia's Wish and All Because Of Her. I need to continue the journey with them and hope for a happy ending.
I first read about the curse in All Because Of Me, where Michael thinks he's cursed: "Every woman close to me ends up hurt. I'm fucking cursed."
But in Olivia's Curse, Olivia thinks she's the cursed one: "Something bad always happens to the people I love."
Who's the cursed one?
August 23, 2026
I’m not ok. This book emotionally broke me. The ending?! The cliffhanger?! I am speechless…I was hooked from the very beginning. Michael is the true definition of a gentlemen who would do literally anything for Olivia, or Red (his nickname for her). Olivia knew her curse was going to catch up to her eventually. But the way this book was written to make you believe that maybe she wasn’t cursed, and she was going to live without having to keep looking over her shoulder? And then rip it right out from under you without blinking? Chiefs kiss.
The ending absolutely wrecked me. I definitely didn’t see any of it coming. I don’t think I’ve ever been this emotionally damaged by a book before.
And I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens…it may even take until then for me to emotionally recover.
I received an advanced readers copy and am leaving this honest review.
The ending absolutely wrecked me. I definitely didn’t see any of it coming. I don’t think I’ve ever been this emotionally damaged by a book before.
And I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens…it may even take until then for me to emotionally recover.
I received an advanced readers copy and am leaving this honest review.
August 24, 2026
Well that fucking hurt.
“A year and a half had passed…” my heart hurts.
I just wanted to wrap up Olivia and Michael and protect them from this new world. Same with Sarah, Jonathan, and Dad 😩
This was so beautiful and so brutal and I need book 2 but I’m so terrified for it.
I’m not gonna spoil anything because this needs to be read. I’ll only comment on the setting which I can only best describe as walking dead minus zombies and plus farm life??? That was a rather unique spin and I need to know wtf happened there.
EDIT: wait a goddamn minute! There was more before this book?! Sarah’s story was out before this and it covers more pain?! 😭
“A year and a half had passed…” my heart hurts.
I just wanted to wrap up Olivia and Michael and protect them from this new world. Same with Sarah, Jonathan, and Dad 😩
This was so beautiful and so brutal and I need book 2 but I’m so terrified for it.
I’m not gonna spoil anything because this needs to be read. I’ll only comment on the setting which I can only best describe as walking dead minus zombies and plus farm life??? That was a rather unique spin and I need to know wtf happened there.
EDIT: wait a goddamn minute! There was more before this book?! Sarah’s story was out before this and it covers more pain?! 😭
August 20, 2026
“𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐛𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐑𝐞𝐝. 𝐈’𝐦 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞.”
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Okay…Olivia’s Obsession by Tatiana Machado. 🥹🖤
First things first…this was a new-to-me author, and I am ALWAYS excited when I find an author I haven’t read before who can pull me into a story like this. And this one? Definitely had me feeling ALL the feelings. 😩
I gave this one 4 ⭐️, and honestly…Michael had me from the beginning. 😂
Because best friends to lovers + he falls first + protective hero + childhood friendship + “it’s always been you”???
Ma’am.
You already know I was going to eat that sh*t up. 😩🧎🏻♀️
Olivia has spent years hidden away on a remote ranch, trying to stay safe from a past that refuses to stay buried. She’s been through things that have left her carrying so much fear and trauma, and I really loved that this wasn’t just a romance where the trauma magically disappears because she falls in love.
Her healing is part of the story.
And then there’s Michael. 🥹
This man has been her best friend, her safe place, the person who knows her better than anyone…and somehow manages to be the one person who can pull her back when everything becomes too much.
THE SAFE PLACE TROPE.
I am WEAK. 😭
And the fact that he’s loved her for so long??? He falls first??? She’s his first love??? She’s his first everything???
I’m sorry, but “it’s always been you” will get me every single time.
Every. Damn. Time. 😩
Their relationship had that really sweet, slow-burn feeling of watching two people who already know each other so well realize that what they’ve always had might actually be something much bigger.
And Michael’s protectiveness??? 👀
Sir.
You can calm down.
Actually…don’t. 😂🧎🏻♀️
I also really loved the ranch setting and the more intimate, secluded feeling of the story. It gave everything this cozy-but-dangerous contrast because Olivia is physically somewhere safe, but emotionally she’s still carrying the things she’s trying to escape from.
And when those buried secrets start coming back up…😩
THAT’S when things really start getting heavy.
I think the trauma and healing elements were some of the strongest parts of the story for me. Olivia’s past isn’t just there for shock value. It affects how she sees herself, how she interacts with Michael and how terrified she is that loving him could somehow put him in danger too.
And Michael’s willingness to stand beside her through all of it???
“I will protect you, even if it costs me.”
Yep.
I’m done. 😂🧎🏻♀️
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star for me is that I wanted a little more depth in some areas. There were moments where I felt like certain emotional pieces could have been explored a little further, especially with everything Olivia was dealing with. I wanted to sit in some of those moments longer because there was SO much potential there.
But overall? I really enjoyed this book.
And for a new-to-me author, Tatiana Machado definitely caught my attention. 👀🖤
If you love friends-to-lovers, childhood best friends, he-falls-first, protective MMCs, trauma and healing, dark secrets, first love, only one bed/sleeping bag 😂 and that delicious “it’s always been you” kind of romance…
Put this one on your TBR.
Because sometimes the best love story is the one that’s been sitting there quietly the entire time. 🥹🖤
Tatiana Machado…you’re officially on my radar now. 👀📚
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Okay…Olivia’s Obsession by Tatiana Machado. 🥹🖤
First things first…this was a new-to-me author, and I am ALWAYS excited when I find an author I haven’t read before who can pull me into a story like this. And this one? Definitely had me feeling ALL the feelings. 😩
I gave this one 4 ⭐️, and honestly…Michael had me from the beginning. 😂
Because best friends to lovers + he falls first + protective hero + childhood friendship + “it’s always been you”???
Ma’am.
You already know I was going to eat that sh*t up. 😩🧎🏻♀️
Olivia has spent years hidden away on a remote ranch, trying to stay safe from a past that refuses to stay buried. She’s been through things that have left her carrying so much fear and trauma, and I really loved that this wasn’t just a romance where the trauma magically disappears because she falls in love.
Her healing is part of the story.
And then there’s Michael. 🥹
This man has been her best friend, her safe place, the person who knows her better than anyone…and somehow manages to be the one person who can pull her back when everything becomes too much.
THE SAFE PLACE TROPE.
I am WEAK. 😭
And the fact that he’s loved her for so long??? He falls first??? She’s his first love??? She’s his first everything???
I’m sorry, but “it’s always been you” will get me every single time.
Every. Damn. Time. 😩
Their relationship had that really sweet, slow-burn feeling of watching two people who already know each other so well realize that what they’ve always had might actually be something much bigger.
And Michael’s protectiveness??? 👀
Sir.
You can calm down.
Actually…don’t. 😂🧎🏻♀️
I also really loved the ranch setting and the more intimate, secluded feeling of the story. It gave everything this cozy-but-dangerous contrast because Olivia is physically somewhere safe, but emotionally she’s still carrying the things she’s trying to escape from.
And when those buried secrets start coming back up…😩
THAT’S when things really start getting heavy.
I think the trauma and healing elements were some of the strongest parts of the story for me. Olivia’s past isn’t just there for shock value. It affects how she sees herself, how she interacts with Michael and how terrified she is that loving him could somehow put him in danger too.
And Michael’s willingness to stand beside her through all of it???
“I will protect you, even if it costs me.”
Yep.
I’m done. 😂🧎🏻♀️
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star for me is that I wanted a little more depth in some areas. There were moments where I felt like certain emotional pieces could have been explored a little further, especially with everything Olivia was dealing with. I wanted to sit in some of those moments longer because there was SO much potential there.
But overall? I really enjoyed this book.
And for a new-to-me author, Tatiana Machado definitely caught my attention. 👀🖤
If you love friends-to-lovers, childhood best friends, he-falls-first, protective MMCs, trauma and healing, dark secrets, first love, only one bed/sleeping bag 😂 and that delicious “it’s always been you” kind of romance…
Put this one on your TBR.
Because sometimes the best love story is the one that’s been sitting there quietly the entire time. 🥹🖤
Tatiana Machado…you’re officially on my radar now. 👀📚
August 20, 2026
📚 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆 📚
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Olivia’s Curse was a book that took me a little while to fully settle into, but once the story found its rhythm, I became genuinely invested in the characters and their relationships.
What I appreciated most was the depth of the characters. Olivia isn’t simply a heroine with a difficult past, and Michael isn’t just the protective, devoted hero. Their experiences have shaped who they are, and I loved seeing how those experiences influenced the way they loved, trusted, struggled, and protected the people who mattered to them. There is a vulnerability beneath both of them that made their connection feel much more meaningful to me.
The friends-to-lovers aspect was especially enjoyable because their relationship is built on years of knowing each other. Their love doesn’t feel like something that appears out of nowhere—it grows naturally from friendship, familiarity, trust, and all those small moments that make two people truly know each other. Michael’s unwavering devotion to Olivia was definitely a highlight, but I also appreciated that their relationship felt emotional beyond the romance itself.
I also loved that the story gives importance to the other relationships surrounding them. The friendships, family bonds, and sense of belonging added another layer to the characters and made me care about more than just the central romance.
The beginning was a little slow for me, and I needed some time to become fully immersed. But once I connected with the characters, the story flowed much more easily, and I found myself increasingly emotionally invested in everything they were going through.
Overall, Olivia’s Curse is a character-driven romance with heart, vulnerability, and relationships that feel deeply personal. It may not have been an instant connection for me, but by the end, I was genuinely glad I stayed for the journey. ❤️
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⭐⭐⭐⭐
Olivia’s Curse was a book that took me a little while to fully settle into, but once the story found its rhythm, I became genuinely invested in the characters and their relationships.
What I appreciated most was the depth of the characters. Olivia isn’t simply a heroine with a difficult past, and Michael isn’t just the protective, devoted hero. Their experiences have shaped who they are, and I loved seeing how those experiences influenced the way they loved, trusted, struggled, and protected the people who mattered to them. There is a vulnerability beneath both of them that made their connection feel much more meaningful to me.
The friends-to-lovers aspect was especially enjoyable because their relationship is built on years of knowing each other. Their love doesn’t feel like something that appears out of nowhere—it grows naturally from friendship, familiarity, trust, and all those small moments that make two people truly know each other. Michael’s unwavering devotion to Olivia was definitely a highlight, but I also appreciated that their relationship felt emotional beyond the romance itself.
I also loved that the story gives importance to the other relationships surrounding them. The friendships, family bonds, and sense of belonging added another layer to the characters and made me care about more than just the central romance.
The beginning was a little slow for me, and I needed some time to become fully immersed. But once I connected with the characters, the story flowed much more easily, and I found myself increasingly emotionally invested in everything they were going through.
Overall, Olivia’s Curse is a character-driven romance with heart, vulnerability, and relationships that feel deeply personal. It may not have been an instant connection for me, but by the end, I was genuinely glad I stayed for the journey. ❤️
FOLLOW ME:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/my.romance....
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/my.romance.o...
August 22, 2026
This's my new favorite first love romance. 10/10!!
August 11, 2026
I truly loved this prequel! The friends to lovers is just perfect. The whole story is dramatic, heartbreaking and steamy! I seriously can’t wait for the next book!
August 4, 2026
This was such an emotional friends-to-lovers romance with plenty of heart. I loved the slow transition from lifelong best friends to first love, and Michael completely stole the show with his protective, "he falls first" energy. The city girl x ranch boy setting gave the story a cozy feel while balancing heavier themes of trauma, healing, and buried secrets.
Olivia's journey was heartbreaking at times, and Michael's unwavering support made their relationship feel genuine, tender, and well-earned. The emotional moments hit hard, and I found myself completely invested in their story.
Be warned, though as the ending leaves you with a major cliffhanger that had me immediately wanting the next book.
August 14, 2026
🌹 𝓞𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓲𝓪’𝓼 𝓒𝓾𝓻𝓼𝓮 🌹
✍🏼 ᴛᴀᴛɪᴀɴᴀ ᴍᴀᴄʜᴀᴅᴏ
“𝙄’𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙛—𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚.”
Michael had a mouth on him, and I was here for every tent-shaking moment of it! HOT DAMN! It was so nice being back with the gang and getting to see the before from 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘔𝘦. Brian is still a wanker. Chloe…ugh, well, just Chloe. Lol. And in pure Tatiana fashion, the last 20% was emotional, stress-induced PANIC. I love these characters, and I love this world so much. And Tatiana is in time-out for that ending…because HOW COULD YOU!?!? I’m so excited for what’s to come! Until then…I’ll just be hanging on the cliff she left me on.
🍓 ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🧢 ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀ & ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ
🍓 ʜᴇ ꜰᴀʟʟꜱ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ
🧢 ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛɪᴠᴇ ʜᴇʀᴏ
🍓 ᴅᴀʀᴋ ꜱᴇᴄʀᴇᴛꜱ
🧢 ꜱʜᴇ ᴡᴇᴀʀꜱ ʜɪꜱ ꜱʜɪʀᴛ
🍓 ᴏɴʟʏ ᴏɴᴇ ꜱʟᴇᴇᴘɪɴɢ ʙᴀɢ
🧢 ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ
✍🏼 ᴛᴀᴛɪᴀɴᴀ ᴍᴀᴄʜᴀᴅᴏ
“𝙄’𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙛—𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚.”
Michael had a mouth on him, and I was here for every tent-shaking moment of it! HOT DAMN! It was so nice being back with the gang and getting to see the before from 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘉𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘔𝘦. Brian is still a wanker. Chloe…ugh, well, just Chloe. Lol. And in pure Tatiana fashion, the last 20% was emotional, stress-induced PANIC. I love these characters, and I love this world so much. And Tatiana is in time-out for that ending…because HOW COULD YOU!?!? I’m so excited for what’s to come! Until then…I’ll just be hanging on the cliff she left me on.
🍓 ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🧢 ᴛʀᴀᴜᴍᴀ & ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ
🍓 ʜᴇ ꜰᴀʟʟꜱ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ
🧢 ᴘʀᴏᴛᴇᴄᴛɪᴠᴇ ʜᴇʀᴏ
🍓 ᴅᴀʀᴋ ꜱᴇᴄʀᴇᴛꜱ
🧢 ꜱʜᴇ ᴡᴇᴀʀꜱ ʜɪꜱ ꜱʜɪʀᴛ
🍓 ᴏɴʟʏ ᴏɴᴇ ꜱʟᴇᴇᴘɪɴɢ ʙᴀɢ
🧢 ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ
August 24, 2026
I enjoy the friends to lovers, but Michael and Olivia are best friends to lovers where he falls first..HARD, and it is perfect. This book has me giggling and kicking my feet until the end..then I scanned the pages for more because I didn't want to wait for the next book in the series.
August 26, 2026
What can I say, Michael is the absolute dream. A man who remembers every detail, the friends to lovers arc is a slow build but once it hits it’s gets spicy 🌶️
Michael sets the bar high, not only for book boyfriends but real life ones, everyone needs the devotion and patience he has for Olivia in their lives.
I am not usually the first to pick up a romance, however I can not wait to pick up the next book on this series given the cliff hanger, the author has me completely hooked.
Olivia spoke to me in the way she started guarded and almost dismissive, seeing her slowly heal, but remain real- I loved how she developed. The way she is written is divine Tatiana is so talented. Olivia is stubborn, fierce and a bit broken from a trauma she doesn’t fully understand.
I was not prepared for the tears this book gave me, the ending just broke me.
Great read, I can not wait for the next one- while I wait I am diving into her other books.
Michael sets the bar high, not only for book boyfriends but real life ones, everyone needs the devotion and patience he has for Olivia in their lives.
I am not usually the first to pick up a romance, however I can not wait to pick up the next book on this series given the cliff hanger, the author has me completely hooked.
Olivia spoke to me in the way she started guarded and almost dismissive, seeing her slowly heal, but remain real- I loved how she developed. The way she is written is divine Tatiana is so talented. Olivia is stubborn, fierce and a bit broken from a trauma she doesn’t fully understand.
I was not prepared for the tears this book gave me, the ending just broke me.
Great read, I can not wait for the next one- while I wait I am diving into her other books.
August 20, 2026
Oof, I don’t know if I’m ok after reading… and now I have to wait for a conclusion?! An emotional and powerful love story, within a dystopian setting. I spent much of the book wanting to know MORE, what’s going to happen, what’s going on in the world, what do these nightmares mean. So I quickly devoured the over 500 page book to reach the conclusion (of this book at least)…
August 22, 2026
ARC Read
The ending to this book was criminal. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. The beginning was a little slow but once it kicked off, damn I was hooked. Definitely an exciting read!
The ending to this book was criminal. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. The beginning was a little slow but once it kicked off, damn I was hooked. Definitely an exciting read!
August 29, 2026
I love the beginning of Michael and Olivia's story. That cliffhanger though is going to make waiting for the conclusion hard. I don't know what to say without giving anything away. The chemistry was great and it was well written.
August 11, 2026
Thank you LoveNotes PR for giving me this ARC!
I really enjoyed this book! Michael and Olivia’s story began nicely and the author does a good job of portraying the deep love they have had for each other since childhood. I am a sucker for friends to lovers, especially childhood friends to lovers, so this book was right up my alley. Michael as an MMC was sooo good and I loved how protective he was over not only Olivia but everyone in their group. Olivia was Avery complex but lovable FMC and I found myself feeling pretty attached to her by the time I was around 60% of the way through. My only qualm with the book is I almost wish there was a little bit more world building or backstory in the beginning of the book (crazy I know) because I felt like there was a lot to be inferred instead of read as far as the world ending and life before.
If you are a fan of friends to lovers, brother’s best friend/childhood best friends, found family, high stakes suspense, he fell first, and high spice, I would highly recommend this book to you!
I really enjoyed this book! Michael and Olivia’s story began nicely and the author does a good job of portraying the deep love they have had for each other since childhood. I am a sucker for friends to lovers, especially childhood friends to lovers, so this book was right up my alley. Michael as an MMC was sooo good and I loved how protective he was over not only Olivia but everyone in their group. Olivia was Avery complex but lovable FMC and I found myself feeling pretty attached to her by the time I was around 60% of the way through. My only qualm with the book is I almost wish there was a little bit more world building or backstory in the beginning of the book (crazy I know) because I felt like there was a lot to be inferred instead of read as far as the world ending and life before.
If you are a fan of friends to lovers, brother’s best friend/childhood best friends, found family, high stakes suspense, he fell first, and high spice, I would highly recommend this book to you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Olivia's Curse 🌹
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Tatiana Machado for trusting me with this amazing ARC!♥️
Far in the woods,in a ranch almost no one knows of,Olivia has spent her entire life.The outside world hunts her ways that are unable to even imagine,so staying hidden and quiet is the safe thing.Forever.
Michael never goes for the safe route & he will do anything possible to protect Olivia even if it costs him his life.
RESPECTFULLY GO TO HELL.
WHY DO I NEED TO CRY SO MUCH?
But,let's get things from the start.
Olivia's Curse,is like nothing you have ever read,almost touching the dystopian genre while giving you one of the best friends-to-lovers romance for ,at least, 2026. Machado's writing is deeply addictive,especially during those passionate,loved-filled scenes between Olivia & Michael.Even,I won't lie to you,it is not a book that you can read in one sitting (she is a thick baddy🔥),yet it is perfect if you are yearning for deep character connections,and a full story that in the end will leave you sobbing and wish you could rewrite the ending.
Olivia,was a really unique girl to begin with,with a really interesting and dark backstory which literally haunts from page 1 to the epilogue.She has been through so much,that she buried inside her,until Michael finally stood his ground and made her every day life a little bit easier.Due to her growing up,remotely in this ranch we also saw a different point of view for this almost dystopian world that she is living in.She had her family,friends growing up and all those people had as their top priority to protect her,especially,Michael.
Michael,was something like put Aaron Warner in a ranch and give him a horse (ride the cowboy,save the horse situation).A mostly tragic figure in this book,rather just a main character,he could really teach you moral,patience and resilience. Growing up,he had the rule of protecting your own as his NO1,something that was a huge factor in how his identity formed. & Michael please never change.
To continue,I loved how honest their romance was.With no dramas,or big scenes to take your breath away.They were just to kids in love with each other,had their funny moments,their fights,their dangers they faced together,but in the end they always made it to each other.Or at least,I think so.
Lastly,I want to point out that ending which left me sobbing in bed,looking at the blank wall for at least thirty minutes and wondering why in the 7 seas,do I like reading & yes,also made me put that 5 star rating,but let's discuss mine and your heartbreak first.
So,bundle up,have a box of tissues and hot (or cold) cup of tea,and let this story be the last you end your summer with
Out On,20th Aug❤️🔥
5⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Tatiana Machado for trusting me with this amazing ARC!♥️
Far in the woods,in a ranch almost no one knows of,Olivia has spent her entire life.The outside world hunts her ways that are unable to even imagine,so staying hidden and quiet is the safe thing.Forever.
Michael never goes for the safe route & he will do anything possible to protect Olivia even if it costs him his life.
RESPECTFULLY GO TO HELL.
WHY DO I NEED TO CRY SO MUCH?
But,let's get things from the start.
Olivia's Curse,is like nothing you have ever read,almost touching the dystopian genre while giving you one of the best friends-to-lovers romance for ,at least, 2026. Machado's writing is deeply addictive,especially during those passionate,loved-filled scenes between Olivia & Michael.Even,I won't lie to you,it is not a book that you can read in one sitting (she is a thick baddy🔥),yet it is perfect if you are yearning for deep character connections,and a full story that in the end will leave you sobbing and wish you could rewrite the ending.
Olivia,was a really unique girl to begin with,with a really interesting and dark backstory which literally haunts from page 1 to the epilogue.She has been through so much,that she buried inside her,until Michael finally stood his ground and made her every day life a little bit easier.Due to her growing up,remotely in this ranch we also saw a different point of view for this almost dystopian world that she is living in.She had her family,friends growing up and all those people had as their top priority to protect her,especially,Michael.
Michael,was something like put Aaron Warner in a ranch and give him a horse (ride the cowboy,save the horse situation).A mostly tragic figure in this book,rather just a main character,he could really teach you moral,patience and resilience. Growing up,he had the rule of protecting your own as his NO1,something that was a huge factor in how his identity formed. & Michael please never change.
To continue,I loved how honest their romance was.With no dramas,or big scenes to take your breath away.They were just to kids in love with each other,had their funny moments,their fights,their dangers they faced together,but in the end they always made it to each other.Or at least,I think so.
Lastly,I want to point out that ending which left me sobbing in bed,looking at the blank wall for at least thirty minutes and wondering why in the 7 seas,do I like reading & yes,also made me put that 5 star rating,but let's discuss mine and your heartbreak first.
So,bundle up,have a box of tissues and hot (or cold) cup of tea,and let this story be the last you end your summer with
Out On,20th Aug❤️🔥
5⭐
August 25, 2026
I read All Because of Me first, which I highly recommend (because it provides a LOT of background, context, and world-building), so I went into this book expecting to have my heart broken. It was, but not necessarily in the way I expected. I love a mystery, and I love suspense, and this book provided both, stitched together with a slow-burn, childhood friends-to-lovers romance.
Timeline skips can be challenging for me to process, so I did struggle with that a little bit, but that is a personal struggle. The other timeline comment I have is that this book takes place chronologically before All Because of Me, which was hard for my brain to wrap around. Again, a me problem, if you've read any of my other reviews. For anyone thinking "Oh, I'll read Olivia's Curse first, then All Because of Me," I really still recommend reading All Because of Me first. The gradual reveal of plot points makes the most sense that way, I think.
The slow burn romance had me hooked, and the tragedy of Olivia had me really rooting for her as the suspense built through the course of the book. The writer does an amazing job writing a boy who is trying to be a man while still carrying the mischief of a boy-- that is, until turmoil and tragedy grow in his life. In that way, you really get a window into Michael's development as a character and how his personality is shaped by his experiences. This book also answers some of the questions that All Because of Me raises about character pasts, decisions, and briefly mentioned events.
I love a book where the characters grow and change, and Olivia and Michael did that in more ways than one. The cliffhanger killed me a little, but I am already counting down to find out what happens next!
The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five is that I REALLY had to suspend my disbelief regarding the medical care and equipment described for a society that is so limited. Michael's "doctor" development and the things he was able to do, as well as some other health-related topics (I won't spoil!) did not feel as real as the other tragedies occurring in the story. Aside from my skepticism on that topic alone, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will read it again, certainly before Olivia's Wish is released!
Brief overview
4.5/5 stars
Dual POV
Slow burn
Childhood friends-to-lovers
Spicy (4/5)
Suspense
Mental health rep
Hurt/comfort
Post-apocalyptic
Possessive/protective hero
Cowboy/farmer hero
Capable heroine
Always check trigger warnings! Stay safe!
Timeline skips can be challenging for me to process, so I did struggle with that a little bit, but that is a personal struggle. The other timeline comment I have is that this book takes place chronologically before All Because of Me, which was hard for my brain to wrap around. Again, a me problem, if you've read any of my other reviews. For anyone thinking "Oh, I'll read Olivia's Curse first, then All Because of Me," I really still recommend reading All Because of Me first. The gradual reveal of plot points makes the most sense that way, I think.
The slow burn romance had me hooked, and the tragedy of Olivia had me really rooting for her as the suspense built through the course of the book. The writer does an amazing job writing a boy who is trying to be a man while still carrying the mischief of a boy-- that is, until turmoil and tragedy grow in his life. In that way, you really get a window into Michael's development as a character and how his personality is shaped by his experiences. This book also answers some of the questions that All Because of Me raises about character pasts, decisions, and briefly mentioned events.
I love a book where the characters grow and change, and Olivia and Michael did that in more ways than one. The cliffhanger killed me a little, but I am already counting down to find out what happens next!
The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five is that I REALLY had to suspend my disbelief regarding the medical care and equipment described for a society that is so limited. Michael's "doctor" development and the things he was able to do, as well as some other health-related topics (I won't spoil!) did not feel as real as the other tragedies occurring in the story. Aside from my skepticism on that topic alone, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will read it again, certainly before Olivia's Wish is released!
Brief overview
4.5/5 stars
Dual POV
Slow burn
Childhood friends-to-lovers
Spicy (4/5)
Suspense
Mental health rep
Hurt/comfort
Post-apocalyptic
Possessive/protective hero
Cowboy/farmer hero
Capable heroine
Always check trigger warnings! Stay safe!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Olivia’s Curse by Tatiana Machado
Rating: 5/5
Medium: eBook - ARC
I absolutely loved Olivia’s Curse by Tatiana Machado. It was everything you want and more from a friends-to-lovers romance. Olivia’s Curse follows Olivia and Michael, childhood best friends, as they navigate life on the ranch, secrets being unravelled, and the growing feelings between them. For Olivia, the ranch is an escape from the city, where being quiet is easier; for Michael, it is his home and the only place he knows. This dystopian, friends-to-lovers romance is so well written and puts you in all the feels.
I felt so connected with all the characters in this story. Each and every one was written beautifully and with so much detail that I was fully immersed in this world. Olivia is so cute but stubborn, and I just want to give her a hug and wrap her in bubble wrap. Her past is traumatic, even though she doesn’t completely know what happened. But Michael, being the caring, loving person he is, is there to support her through it all. Michael has set the bar really high for book boyfriends. He fell for Olivia first and HARD. The progression of their relationship was so organic and done perfectly. I felt the love and bond between the two the whole book.
The actual plot of the story in terms of what is happening to the world is interesting. As the reader, you only know as much as Olivia and Michael know, so not a lot. As the story progresses, you learn alongside them what happened to the world and what is still out there. I really enjoyed reading a romance book with a dystopian subplot. I haven’t read many books like this one, and it has made me want to read more.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger that will emotionally wreck you. But I am so ready to read her other books in this world.
Quotes:
“Of course he’s wearing a shirt. Which, for some dumb reason, disappoints me more than it should.”
“Have you met me? I don’t share chocolate!” → Felt this one in my soul
“I’ll find you every damn time, Red.”
Rating: 5/5
Medium: eBook - ARC
I absolutely loved Olivia’s Curse by Tatiana Machado. It was everything you want and more from a friends-to-lovers romance. Olivia’s Curse follows Olivia and Michael, childhood best friends, as they navigate life on the ranch, secrets being unravelled, and the growing feelings between them. For Olivia, the ranch is an escape from the city, where being quiet is easier; for Michael, it is his home and the only place he knows. This dystopian, friends-to-lovers romance is so well written and puts you in all the feels.
I felt so connected with all the characters in this story. Each and every one was written beautifully and with so much detail that I was fully immersed in this world. Olivia is so cute but stubborn, and I just want to give her a hug and wrap her in bubble wrap. Her past is traumatic, even though she doesn’t completely know what happened. But Michael, being the caring, loving person he is, is there to support her through it all. Michael has set the bar really high for book boyfriends. He fell for Olivia first and HARD. The progression of their relationship was so organic and done perfectly. I felt the love and bond between the two the whole book.
The actual plot of the story in terms of what is happening to the world is interesting. As the reader, you only know as much as Olivia and Michael know, so not a lot. As the story progresses, you learn alongside them what happened to the world and what is still out there. I really enjoyed reading a romance book with a dystopian subplot. I haven’t read many books like this one, and it has made me want to read more.
Be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger that will emotionally wreck you. But I am so ready to read her other books in this world.
Quotes:
“Of course he’s wearing a shirt. Which, for some dumb reason, disappoints me more than it should.”
“Have you met me? I don’t share chocolate!” → Felt this one in my soul
“I’ll find you every damn time, Red.”
August 26, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Olivia’s Curse by Tatiana Machado
Oh my heart. This book was emotional, beautiful, heartbreaking, and so incredibly sweet all at the same time.
Olivia absolutely stole my heart. She has been through so much and carries so many scars from her past, but watching her slowly find safety and love with Michael was everything. And Michael? That man had me completely. The way he knows her, understands her silence, protects her without trying to change her, and loves every piece of her had me melting.
I am such a sucker for best friends to lovers, but this one hit differently because their connection felt so genuine. It was not just about falling in love. Michael was Olivia’s safe place long before either of them realized their friendship had become something more. Their first love and first everything moments were so tender and emotional that I just wanted to wrap them both up and protect them.
Then the secrets start coming out and my heart HURT. Olivia’s past is heartbreaking, and watching her face everything she has spent years trying to survive made me incredibly emotional.
Tatiana Machado gave me romance, trauma, healing, suspense, friendship, first love, and a man who would risk everything for the girl he loves. I was completely invested in Olivia and Michael from beginning to end.
Five emotional, protective, first love stars. Michael, you officially have a piece of my heart.
Olivia’s Curse by Tatiana Machado
Oh my heart. This book was emotional, beautiful, heartbreaking, and so incredibly sweet all at the same time.
Olivia absolutely stole my heart. She has been through so much and carries so many scars from her past, but watching her slowly find safety and love with Michael was everything. And Michael? That man had me completely. The way he knows her, understands her silence, protects her without trying to change her, and loves every piece of her had me melting.
I am such a sucker for best friends to lovers, but this one hit differently because their connection felt so genuine. It was not just about falling in love. Michael was Olivia’s safe place long before either of them realized their friendship had become something more. Their first love and first everything moments were so tender and emotional that I just wanted to wrap them both up and protect them.
Then the secrets start coming out and my heart HURT. Olivia’s past is heartbreaking, and watching her face everything she has spent years trying to survive made me incredibly emotional.
Tatiana Machado gave me romance, trauma, healing, suspense, friendship, first love, and a man who would risk everything for the girl he loves. I was completely invested in Olivia and Michael from beginning to end.
Five emotional, protective, first love stars. Michael, you officially have a piece of my heart.
August 31, 2026
This was the first book that I have read from this author and I struggled through it. There were parts that I enjoyed but other parts that I found way too long and very repetitive.
The book is dystopian and you never really know why everything is as it is but you know that there was lots of fighting and everyone has been relocated to a safe ranch where no outsiders or gangs have located the families that live there. It does seem to be one adult and the rest of the people are teenagers or early 20's.
Olivia blamed herself for the misfortunes of everyone and after a while it just gets tiresome to hear. She believes everyone would be better off without her. She did go through some traumatic events which we slowly learn more about through the book.
Michael has loved Olivia for as far back as he can remember and will do anything he can to keep her safe. Once she has her 18th birthday he confesses his feelings and the two slowly begin to form a relationship but of course there are obstacles and other traumatic events that occur.
I think the idea of the story is good but I just found it too long and we hear the same thing over and over, especially from Olivia. I would have liked to have her get stronger but I felt like she became weaker as the story went on.
The ending was somewhat disappointing with the way you are left as I know there is another book coming but it just felt complete.
3.25 Stars- Rebecca
The book is dystopian and you never really know why everything is as it is but you know that there was lots of fighting and everyone has been relocated to a safe ranch where no outsiders or gangs have located the families that live there. It does seem to be one adult and the rest of the people are teenagers or early 20's.
Olivia blamed herself for the misfortunes of everyone and after a while it just gets tiresome to hear. She believes everyone would be better off without her. She did go through some traumatic events which we slowly learn more about through the book.
Michael has loved Olivia for as far back as he can remember and will do anything he can to keep her safe. Once she has her 18th birthday he confesses his feelings and the two slowly begin to form a relationship but of course there are obstacles and other traumatic events that occur.
I think the idea of the story is good but I just found it too long and we hear the same thing over and over, especially from Olivia. I would have liked to have her get stronger but I felt like she became weaker as the story went on.
The ending was somewhat disappointing with the way you are left as I know there is another book coming but it just felt complete.
3.25 Stars- Rebecca
Review of advance copy
This story was so heartbreaking! And that cliffhanger!
Set in a post-apocalyptic near-ish future, Olivia and her family move to a small, secluded ranch run by her parents’ friends, where she meets Michael. They become instant friends, and now at eighteen, Michael’s looking for more. Olivia may too if it wasn’t for her curse - anyone she loves dies. Or almost dies in the case of her twin brother. But that’s not stopping Michael. For over a year, they get happiness and to just be themselves. But the outsiders that found them shortly after Olivia’s eighteenth birthday were associated with the reason why her family ran in the first place, and how they found her; even though it’s been thirteen years, they want her back. So what happens when Olivia needs serious medical attention and ends up in the wrong hands?
This is book one of a duet and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
It was a little slow for me to get into this book, but once I did, I could not put it down. I loved that the story started when they were young, but jumped back and forth to different points in their lives that were important to their relationship and to what they were going through at that time. I do have to wonder how the ending of this book affected others in the group who lived on the ranch and what other precautions they now were taking. I have a suspicion as to who that was on the last page, and what may have happened to that person, but we will have to see!
I received an advance review copy from Love Notes PR, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Set in a post-apocalyptic near-ish future, Olivia and her family move to a small, secluded ranch run by her parents’ friends, where she meets Michael. They become instant friends, and now at eighteen, Michael’s looking for more. Olivia may too if it wasn’t for her curse - anyone she loves dies. Or almost dies in the case of her twin brother. But that’s not stopping Michael. For over a year, they get happiness and to just be themselves. But the outsiders that found them shortly after Olivia’s eighteenth birthday were associated with the reason why her family ran in the first place, and how they found her; even though it’s been thirteen years, they want her back. So what happens when Olivia needs serious medical attention and ends up in the wrong hands?
This is book one of a duet and leaves off on a cliffhanger.
It was a little slow for me to get into this book, but once I did, I could not put it down. I loved that the story started when they were young, but jumped back and forth to different points in their lives that were important to their relationship and to what they were going through at that time. I do have to wonder how the ending of this book affected others in the group who lived on the ranch and what other precautions they now were taking. I have a suspicion as to who that was on the last page, and what may have happened to that person, but we will have to see!
I received an advance review copy from Love Notes PR, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2026
First off thank you to Tatiana Machado and LoveNotesPR for allowing me to read this arc.
If you enjoy the trope friends to lovers this one is for you. The emotions throughout the book with the world setting and the connection and tension between the two main characters Michael and Olivia (🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵) is just the beginning. Not joking bring out the tissue boxes you are going to need them. This book had me feeling all of the feelings from the highest highs of giggling and kicking my feet at the sweet and sincere moments of Michael falling first and doing everything in his power to protect Olivia. Down to the sobbing and having my heart stomped on repeatedly. If an emotional rollercoaster is what you need and are looking for this one is for you, even if you have to wait the agonizing pain for waiting to know what happens next.
If you enjoy the trope friends to lovers this one is for you. The emotions throughout the book with the world setting and the connection and tension between the two main characters Michael and Olivia (🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵) is just the beginning. Not joking bring out the tissue boxes you are going to need them. This book had me feeling all of the feelings from the highest highs of giggling and kicking my feet at the sweet and sincere moments of Michael falling first and doing everything in his power to protect Olivia. Down to the sobbing and having my heart stomped on repeatedly. If an emotional rollercoaster is what you need and are looking for this one is for you, even if you have to wait the agonizing pain for waiting to know what happens next.
August 27, 2026
This was such a wholesome friends-to-lovers romance! 🥹💕 I loved seeing Olivia and Michael’s long-standing friendship gradually turn into something more. Their shared history made their relationship feel effortless, and Michael being completely head-over-heels for Olivia, fiercely protective, and secretly loving her for years had me SWOONING. 😭
The ranch backdrop was such a fun addition, and I enjoyed the blend of romance, suspense, and Olivia’s complicated past. It took me a little while to fully settle into the story, but I became more invested as the pages went on. I especially loved the surrounding family and friendship dynamics—they brought so much warmth and made the story feel even more complete. 🤍
The ranch backdrop was such a fun addition, and I enjoyed the blend of romance, suspense, and Olivia’s complicated past. It took me a little while to fully settle into the story, but I became more invested as the pages went on. I especially loved the surrounding family and friendship dynamics—they brought so much warmth and made the story feel even more complete. 🤍
August 21, 2026
Thanks to Love Notes PR and Tatiana Machado for the opportunity to give my opinions on this amazing book. This review reflects only my thoughts about the e-ARC of Olivia's Curse.
I honestly thought this book was deep, tender and heartbreaking at times. I loved the pace, how their relationship keeps evolving and their growth as characters. It really felt very natural how everything progressed and it is truly heartwarming and sweet the way they realize theirs was a once in a lifetime love.
I have anything negative to say, I'm just sitting here bawling and in all my feels after reading Olivia's Curse.
I honestly thought this book was deep, tender and heartbreaking at times. I loved the pace, how their relationship keeps evolving and their growth as characters. It really felt very natural how everything progressed and it is truly heartwarming and sweet the way they realize theirs was a once in a lifetime love.
I have anything negative to say, I'm just sitting here bawling and in all my feels after reading Olivia's Curse.
September 7, 2026
🌟 ARC Review 🌟
I was lucky enough to be part of the ARC team to read this book before its release, and below are my honest thoughts!.
If you like:
💜 Friends to Lovers
🐮 City Girl x Ranch Boy
⛺️ Only One Sleeping Bag
😍 “It’s Always Been You”
Review:
If you want to fall in love with a cute little book and then be CRUSHED in the 3rd act, step right up and take this book for a read. The love from the FMC and MMC is adorable, the pacing and plot is great and the twists are awesome. This is all you need to know right now, so go read it and then come back and scream with me. You can thank me after.
I was lucky enough to be part of the ARC team to read this book before its release, and below are my honest thoughts!.
If you like:
💜 Friends to Lovers
🐮 City Girl x Ranch Boy
⛺️ Only One Sleeping Bag
😍 “It’s Always Been You”
Review:
If you want to fall in love with a cute little book and then be CRUSHED in the 3rd act, step right up and take this book for a read. The love from the FMC and MMC is adorable, the pacing and plot is great and the twists are awesome. This is all you need to know right now, so go read it and then come back and scream with me. You can thank me after.
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