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Curse of the Pirate #2

Tournament of Power

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Enjoy this second installment in USA Today bestselling fantasy romance author Cortney Pearson's Curse of the Pirate Series!They want his heart. He wants their power. When Bae Kelsey invites princesses across the ocean to compete in a tournament for his hand in marriage, Caliana Brahmvir volunteers herself as a contender. But Cali quickly realizes this is no tournament for a joyful marriage union.Bae is only after one a princess with enough power to destroy the boundary keeping him from sailing to Zara. And he doesn't care who gets in his way.Cali will have to face dauntless, callused princesses with ruthless power and complete insuperable tasks that test the very strands of what the girls are made of. If she can't survive the tournament to win, losing will mean her death. But now that she's in it, she's lost her chance to turn away from the risk.Win or die, those are Cali's only options in Tournament of Power, the second, unputdownable installment of the Curse of the Pirate series by USA Today bestselling author Cortney Pearson."Cortney Pearson knows how to take over your world and make you exist only in hers. Let yourself be captivated. A 5* series." - TopSues, a Kindle reviewer ★★★★★"Wow, what an incredible read. This series is truly a favorite!" -Kryptonian7, a Kindle reviewer ★★★★★"Flawless, full of suspense, fast-paced, and full of action." -Lynnzie6268, a Kindle reviewer ★★★★★"I loved the first one and the second does not disappoint!" - Layla, a Kindle reviewer ★★★★★

340 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2019

46 people are currently reading
262 people want to read

About the author

Cortney Pearson

27 books330 followers
Cortney Pearson is the USA Today bestselling author of The Chosen Series, Curse of the Pirate Series, and The Chuzzlewit Chronicles. She writes fantasy worlds brimming with adventure, loyalty, and romance, from wizards, to steampunk, to pirates. She is the mom of four cuties, loves classical music, chocolate, slow-burn kissing scenes, and sparkles.

Don't miss a thing regarding Cortney's books. Sign up for her newsletter! www.cortneypearson.com

Stay up-to-date in her FB group, Cortney's Secret Keepers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Cortn...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Alicia.
129 reviews4 followers
August 11, 2021
Tournament of Power was an absolutely intense force to be reckoned with. The attention to detail, the twists and turns were the cherry on top in an already incredible tale. The characters are beautifully rendered in a world that has many fascinating facets and secrets that are dying to be told. This series is fast becoming one of my new favorites to be read and re-read again and again!
Profile Image for Mandie.
692 reviews34 followers
March 18, 2019
I loved this book! It was unique. It was fast paced, and it kept me entertained the whole time!!
167 reviews7 followers
April 14, 2019
Sometimes book number two is not as good as book one ..... This is not one of those books 😃 The main characters draw you in and you can't help but be vested in them . You have to keep reading , so be prepared to not get your chores done lol . So pick up this series and be ready to enjoy some fantastic books . 😁😁😁
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews26 followers
March 26, 2019
This book was captivating. Great characters that have so Many layers. Plot with unexpected and filled with so Many Small and big twists and turns that I was sorting on The Edge of my chair!
Can't wait for book 3 as the ending was unexpected.
Author 18 books5 followers
August 11, 2021
*Note: This is a review for the revised edition of the book. Be warned that it contains spoilers. At the very least, though, those who haven't read this book yet can know that I think that they would like it if they already know they like The Selection series by Kiera Cass, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J. K. Rowling, and/or The Cruel Prince series by Holly Black! And there's still very much a Little Mermaid feel to this series as well!

...

I think this book was a great second installment to the series! It still has great, compelling concepts and a lot of tension (especially at the end) that leaves readers wanting more and wanting to see how everything gets explained and resolved in the end. I definitely look forward to Book 3!

One particular strength that I really loved about this book was its flowing prose. There are some very vivid, imaginable, and stark metaphors, analogy-and-description passages, and so forth. Some of my favorite lines and passages were: when Undine's boundary was compared to Cali's love life; the passage in Chapter 32 that sums up Cali's character; and little things like the book's colour descriptions (teal and pink were especially well-done), the line "she truly was beautiful in a timeless sort of way, the way old teacups and vintage antiques never lost their charm," and the analogy "knife coated in sugar." Overall, the banter, as well as the varied word choice that keeps things engaging, in this novel was great! I also really love how the description of the scene at the end of Chapter 6 fits well with the moods and themes that are being exuded at the time.

I also still love Cali as a main character! Dang, is she selfless. And I agree with her about poor Vera...I have to say that a lot of the other characters in this novel frustrated me, though, haha. I used to really like Soraya, and so although I understand that where she went in this novel was reasonable when you think about her character arc, I definitely didn't really like her anymore by the end of this novel! And then I felt conflicted about Bae, too, because he almost seemed like a different person when he was in private as compared to public! Again, I know that this was for good reason, and I never really stopped rooting for him and Cali to be happy together. It's just...half the time in this novel, I wanted to slap him! Even Cali was still worried that he might have left her right before they got engaged. Although at least I think by then, she wasn't pulling a Soraya-and-Roland: where you're just so desperate to feel anything that you trust someone you shouldn't. Anyway...I'm glad that Bae is heading toward staying a good guy and being resolved! Also: I am mad at Cali's dad, and let's just say that Captain Kelsey is a creep.

All in all, I am definitely grateful for and found myself interested in the fact of all the moral conversations that the characters debate together, as well as how everything weaves together for severe consequences. Gia and Lyric dying was still sad to me even though they weren't the main people being championed --- they're still sympathetic to some extent! Just about every character is.

To conclude, I'm really glad that I got to read this book, and I would definitely recommend it to everyone! I will leave you with the thought-provocation: "When your heart's been broken, will you be like Cali, or like Soraya and Undine? This is an important choice for you to make before it's too late!"
Profile Image for Michelle.
287 reviews43 followers
January 28, 2021
Review also on my bookstagram: emm_enchanted

This book is a fantasy version of "The Bachelor" except with murder and mayhem. A thrilling sequel to the Princess of Death.

The marriage tournament is on, with princesses coming from various kingdoms to win the hand of the pirate turned prince. The winner not only gains a kingdom, but also the blessing of Undine which gives magic to the child born out of this union. Soraya is called on to participate, but Cali steps forward as well. Now she has to navigate the politics, backstabbing and dangerous tasks with magic, in order to survive.

I was eager to start this book after finishing the first one. The beginning was good and I got the answer I was looking for in the previous book. I wanted to see how Cali and Soraya would work together, but I was shocked when Soraya's character did a complete 180 and became a whiny, selfish person who blamed all her problems on Cali and sabotaged her at every step. It's not that she was a badass in the first book, but she showed a lot of promise during her moments of courage. I strongly disliked her in this one.
Cali was amazing throughout. Despite her inner turmoil with leaving her home and being in the tournament with no magic, she persevered. I could sense her conflicts and battles with temptation, which was relatable. The only thing I did not like was her being so obvious about her feelings for Bae, when he treated her badly in the first half. I wish she'd at least pretend to not be so affected.
I enjoyed the tournament tasks, the adventures Cali went on to find out certain truths. There were a few shocking revelations with some background stories. There was comparatively more magic in this book which was the best part and the merfolks were a great addition. I liked the direction this story took and the ending was epic. I can't wait for the next book which will be releasing this year, especially since the description seemed awesome. This is a must read for all romantic fantasy lovers.
Profile Image for Lexa.
191 reviews21 followers
August 24, 2021
This book was so much more intense than the last and I am reeling! The complex plot, the twists, and that ending! Do you ever fail to amaze me? This book was so impressive and I am so glad it didn’t fall to the dreaded second book curse.

I loved the fact that we learnt a different side to our characters, especially Soraya (I cannot lie to you, multiple times I called her an idiot while reading this book because GURL you know better!) I hope she gets her shit together in book 3 because what is she doinggggg? 😭

Cali just went from strength to strength in my opinion and completely balanced out my annoyance with Soraya with my love for Cali. I feel like we had a kind of yin and yang thing going on here.

I loved Bae in the first book, I loved Bae now, and I’ll love Bae forever. I will fight you for him, don’t even try me. Although I’d also love it if he stopped making the same mistake, NO DEAL BAE, NO DEAL!

I loved the tournament aspect of this book, I was always looking forward to what was going to happen next, and the mermaaaaaids! They just made everything so much better!

I am so in love with these books, I will shout to the moon (😉) about how amazing these reads are! So bingeworthy and SO good!!!
Profile Image for Kim - Inside the Wong Mind.
387 reviews30 followers
August 29, 2021
Tournament of Power
By Cortney Pearson
Book 2 in the Curse of the Pirate series
Rating: 4/5

Another winner from Cortney Pearson! The story of Bae and Cali continues right where it left off from book one so I highly recommend reading book one before reading book 2. Courtney Pearson does not disappoint with book 2 in the series. I was excited to get an ARC of the book and dive back into the world of pirates and magic.

Bae has made a deal with Undine, the Sea Witch, to hold a tournament to decide who will become his queen. Princesses from all over have arrived to compete for the throne. Can Cali find a way to win Bae’s heart and a throne even though she has no magic? What are Undine’s plans and can Cali figure them out before it’s too late? Can Cali find a way to compete against the other princesses without magic?

The adventure continues in this fantastic world that the author has created. The characters are so fun and the romance is sizzling (but still clean).

Highly recommend if you enjoy YA fantasy about pirates and magic.

My thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
478 reviews2 followers
March 7, 2019
The impact of this series continues seamlessly from the end of “Princess of Power”. Tournament of Power is a great title because this 2nd book in the “Curse of the Pirate series. Is all about about Power and Sacrifice. Power of Loyalty, Magic & Love. This tournament takes so much away from Cali that her despair & heartache nearly destroys her. With nobody to left to turn to, she will either drown in her regrets or fight to survive. The change in relationship with Bae caused a lump in my throat from the beginning. Can Cali ever forgive this new callous attitude. Can Bae ever forgive her for leaving him to die. She takes a place in the tournament for Bae’s hand and the kingdom, there can only be one winner, A Princess with Magic !! Has Cali has failed before she has even started.
Once again when you enter this world, there is no question of realism. This extends into the emotions of the characters. Cortney Pearson knows how to take over your world and make you only exist in hers. This series is one of wonder, sorrow and regret. Let the magic she creates continue to captivate you & hold you in her grip until the very last word.
Profile Image for Brittany Smith.
918 reviews15 followers
February 27, 2019
Oh my goodness!!

Tournament of Power picks up where Princess of Death leaves off. We join Cali on a frenzied,desperate and even cut throat journey to win Bae’s heart and be crowned queen of Lunae Lumen. We are thrown in the deep end right from the start and it is non stop action!

We already know-and in my case love- Bae and Cali but we get to meet even more glorious characters in this story. From the Princesses from the other realms, to mermaids and even Undine herself. Lunae Lumen is laid out for us perfectly and the details are so rich that I could imagine everything. Cortney Pearson does an amazing job getting our emotions and sympathies on board for each character.

I absolutely loved this book and I am a huge fan of Cortney’s-consider me converted and a huge fan/supporter of hers. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next instalment!!!

Profile Image for Calista.
9 reviews
June 30, 2022
Dark and Depressing... Pass on it.

I'm all for a little chaos and darkness but it needs to be balanced with a little humor or uplifting moments. There were very few enjoyable moments in a Curse of the Pirate books one and two. The romance between Cali and Bae is riddled with mistakes, misunderstandings and lack of true connection. The author seems hesitant to describe anything more than a kiss between the two characters, but will then detail Soraya murdering Bae's only friend, the murder of her father, a child and two princesses!! Ugh.

Cali has no true friends. Every parental figure in this book is malevolent or a murderer. All sub characters are selfish and seem not to care who dies. There is very little to recommend this book in the way of an enjoyable read. The writing and editing were okay. I'm choosing not to finish the series.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
Author 43 books204 followers
July 31, 2023
I loved book one and could not wait to get my hands on book two! And Pearson did not disappoint. There were twists and turns I didn't expect. I loved the dedication that Cali had to her cousin, but I also loved the chemistry between Cali and Bae. Even when her cousin wasn't her true self, Cali made up for it in spades by sticking to her gut.

And with the sea witch toying with everything you never knew what was going to happen. I peeled through this book to get to the end. I can't wait for book three!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
682 reviews10 followers
March 6, 2019
Wow a Fantastic read. Bae Kelsey invites princesses to complete in a tornament for his hand in Marriage. Caliana Brahmvir volunteers she hopes to win for someone else not herself. This takes her on quite the undertaking. Is everything what it seems. The Author grabs you right from the first page. And has you cheering on Caliana, its a fast paced read that brings you lots of twists and turns. The Author really brings out the Characters and the Scenery to where you can picture it in your mind. I definitely recommend.
Shauna Joesten
Profile Image for Erin.
1,008 reviews10 followers
March 27, 2019
Great continuation to this series. Cali and Soraya return to return to Soraya's home to participate in the tournament. Throughout the twists and turns, the princesses face trials to win the tournament of power where if you lose you die. As her journey through the trials progress, Cali learns more about herself and what she's willing to risk for those she cares for. As her and Bae start understanding Unidine's reasons they learn what sacrifices must be made. Cen't wait to read Servant of Magic when it comes out.
Profile Image for Kassie.
45 reviews10 followers
February 20, 2021
I really enjoyed reading again about Cali and Bae. Cali literally became all alone in this book as she joined the Tournament. She was already at a disadvantage and she has to overcome a lot to hope to come out on top, especially when she may have just gotten involved in something way over her head. Her interactions with other characters really pushed on your heartstrings, in many different ways, and kept me reading. The characters had depth while also maintaining an easy read. I fell in love with the characters and I am anxiously awaiting book 3!
Profile Image for Christine Marie.
398 reviews24 followers
September 7, 2021
After that book 1 cliffhanger I needed to know the future of these two princesses and the pirate prince. Often book 2 hit a lull as if it’s an info dump instead of a push to the good stuff. This wasn’t it! Not in the slightest. Absolutely amazing, the complexity of each character old and new is fascinating. Seeing new softer sides to harden exterior pirates and the more selfish harder sides of the princesses was perfect for this second in its series. I look forward to seeing what is next for book 3.
Profile Image for Coral Chanel.
93 reviews8 followers
March 30, 2019
Spoiler free review!

Tournament of Power picks up smoothly from Princess of Death, throwing us straight in to the action of this instalment of the series.
We have our favourites back on the pages with us and meet even more amazing characters!
Entering this tournament to win the hand of the soon to be pirate king, this book will leave you completely hooked and wishing for more.

5 stars. Would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Amberly Lucas.
23 reviews
September 3, 2021
This was such a great book!! Cali was thrust into a tournament for marriage to the man she loved. But the other contestants had powers and she did not. But she had to try and help her cousin and stay close to Bae. Bae didn’t really want the tournament, but you don’t tell the sea witch no. Through tasks that killed and put the princesses at their wits ends, Cali found out who she was after she lost everything and who she belonged with.
1,739 reviews7 followers
August 31, 2021
This is the second book in the series and it just jumps in where the first book left off! You are immediately drawn in and won't want to put it down until you have finished it! A fantastic clean series by Cortney Pearson! Can't wait to see what the next book brings.

*Note this series should be read in order

I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Gitanjali Kumar.
372 reviews5 followers
September 1, 2021
This plot is very well written and characters are unforgettable..I love books like The Selection and this had that kind of vibes to it.There is enough twists and back stabbing characters to keep every reader on the edge till the end. After reading the first book I was eager to read this one and I think it is more layered and interesting than the first.Cant wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Valery.
Author 3 books23 followers
June 11, 2025
Slow. Lots of grammar mistakes and inconsistencies. Just wasn't as good as the first book.

For my clean readers: no language. Romance-kissing, innuendos, one character kissing her father's murderer, and cheating. Violence-fighting, torture, attempted murder, kidnapping, murder of children, and murder.
Profile Image for Tammy.
1,359 reviews39 followers
March 11, 2019
I was hoping for more Bae and Cali and this book did not disappoint. I truly did not see how the story was going to go clear up to the ending. Should or shouldn't the barrier be brought down? Action packed and well paced read.
Profile Image for Marlys.
1,517 reviews9 followers
August 24, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book. The story line is well written and I was entranced from the beginning. I didn't want to put this book down, I had to find out the ending. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Profile Image for jennie.and.books.
400 reviews4 followers
December 14, 2022
You know those books that you know the characters have GOT to get out of the five billion bad situations they are in, but you have no idea how they are going to do it?

Yup. That is is this book and series.
80 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2025
wasn't as good as the first one. i found most of the characters just really annoying--especially saraya. Also, why is Saraya angry at Cali? I mean I get it, but you got bigger enemies, like the man that killed your father that you were so angry at!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ruth.
492 reviews10 followers
March 31, 2019
Incredible!! I love how the story keeps on getting better and better. The surprises, revelations and descriptions. Can't wait to find out what happens in Cali's and Bae's world!!!
Profile Image for Amanda Gregory.
493 reviews7 followers
August 16, 2021
Wow I seriously loved this book. The second book in this series blew me away. I honestly couldn’t put it down. I love Cali and Bae.
Profile Image for Cleocutie.
3,117 reviews24 followers
September 1, 2021
Complex characters who make you care what happens to them and a fast paced storyline that grabs you a draws you in combine to make a great book.
Profile Image for Mererid Evanna.
272 reviews5 followers
March 4, 2022
It's supposedly a traditional marriage tournament, but the pirates who now rule Lunae Lumen see it as a way to gain control of a princess with enough magic to destroy the boundary, the impassable barrier between Lunae Lumen and Cali's kingdom of Zara. The maybe-not-a-witch-but-very-powerful Undine, who created the boundary, also wants it gone, but Cali is sure destroying it is a very bad idea. So who will get their way in the end?

This is a superb sequel to Princess of Death. The tournament forms a framework against which tensions and rivalries play out. Everyone has their own angle, there is more at stake than anyone guesses, there are magical displays and rich descriptions of royal excess, and the mermaids play a big part in it all. I am eager to read the next book in the series.

For me, an ugh factor is that Cali finds herself unwillingly attracted to the handsome, charming, untrustworthy pirate who has stolen her cousin's birthright. It's implied they're destined to be together, but I couldn't warm to the devious scoundrel. The romance is clean enough, but rather too visceral for my actual taste.

If you enjoy the flipped idea of princesses competing for the hand of a prince, I also recommend Starla Huchton's Dust in the Desert, which has something similar along with some elements from Aladdin.
Profile Image for Sairaika.
912 reviews47 followers
March 14, 2020
A powerful read!

Five princesses...
One pirate...
A deadly contest...

Wow. Just wow. I am amazed by this delightfully wicked and magical book. So engrossing. My attention was captured right from the start. When the end came, I was so disappointed - I wanted more and I cannot wait for book three. Hopefully it is not a long wait!

Full of princesses, pirates, the sea witch, deception, secrets, magic, greed, a tournament and romance.

Perfect for readers of fantasy romances.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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