Star-Crossed

Gypsy's Curse #1

by Meg Anne, Jessica Wayne

Some rules are meant to be broken.

Skye Giovanni has spent her entire life heeding the warning passed down by the women in her family: an entire line of Gyspy Seers cursed with visions of death. Their cardinal rule–don’t get involved.

But that was before she met him. The sexy detective who tempts her to tear down the wall she’s built around her heart.

When Skye’s confronted by her most horrific vision yet, she finds herself doing the unthinkable. Running to the rescue of a complete stranger—and straight into a deadly world of magic and revenge.

Nothing in her life has prepared her for this. She knows she’s outmatched and completely out of her league, but she can’t bring herself to walk away.

Not even if solving this murder means she’ll have to face her own.

Blood feuds, destiny, and family curses collide in this binge-worthy paranormal series perfect for fans of Karen Marie Moning, Laura Thalassa, Kelly St. Clare, and Linsey Hall. Packed with dark rituals, bone-chilling suspense, and a slow-burn romance written in the stars, this series will sink its claws into you and not let go until the very last page. Start at your own risk.

***Visions of Death is book 1 in The Gypsy’s Curse series (previously the Cursed Hearts series) and was previously released as Star-Crossed.***

Recommended for ages 18+ due to adult language, content, and scenes with graphic violence.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Contemporary, Adult

296 pages, Paperback

First published October 20, 2018

About the author

USA Today and International Bestselling Author of fantasy and paranormal romance. Creator of #MenByMeg. Glitter Addict. Taco Enthusiast. Lip Sync Battle Champion.

Meg loves to write about sassy heroines and the men that love them. She is best known for her adult fantasy romance series The Chosen, which can be found on Amazon.

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Reviews

[Alaina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yo, I loved Skye and Lucas. They were adorable and had so much sexual tension.

Star-Crossed was surprisingly good. It definitely gave some twists and turns that kept me engaged. I especially want to know more about this druid and how he can sometimes see Skye, who happens to be a seer, in her little death visions.

Now at the beginning, when Lucas and Skye met it felt a bit awkward. However, along the way it was growing on me. It didn't matter if I was kind of falling asleep while at work or in bed reading this - but I was digging them.

The one thing I would change in this book would be that god awful cliffhanger ending. It wasn't even a true ending.. kind of like an unfinished sentence, paragraph, or something. It just frustrated me and now I'm freaking out because I need the next book. Just so I can see what the hell is going to happen next and if I will ever get another sexy moment between Lucas and Skye.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skye has visions of deaths. When Detective Lucas triggers a vision, she is surprised that the killer can sense her presence. She is compelled to find out if this means that she can change the fate of the woman victim in her vision. This brings her into contact with Lucas again as he has a connection to the woman. He quickly figures out that Skye may be able to help him figure out a string of murders that he is currently working on. However, her explanation is difficult for him to believe.

There were a few things I didn't like about this book - like the ending! It wasn't even a proper cliffhanger, more like the middle of a chapter, but whatever. However, the characters have surprisingly gotten into my head and I am intrigued to see what might happen next with them. Skye and Lucas are charming together. I'm giving it one more book to sell me.

[Bri-Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received and ARC of this book and loved every second of it. There are twists and turns on every page. The authors do a great job of making you feel like you are apart of the action. This book also has some pretty hilarious moments, I laughed out loud several times. I’m looking forward to the rest of this journey!! I have read all of Jessica Wayne’s novels but this is my first of Meg Anne. I am very excited to read her other books!!!

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/22/2019)! 🎁

[Brandy]

DNF @ 78%. I am not having much luck with books right now. This might be because of my mood, so for now I'm not leaving a star rating.

I was really into this story. The premise is great, but a few things ruined it for me.

First, there are disconnects--timeline, what's actually happening--between POV's. I'm going to assume this is because each author wrote one POV and when piecing it together they missed some things. This type of inconsistency ALWAYS pulls me out of the story.

Second, I couldn't handle anymore internal monologue of both characters declaring how much they are attracted to one another, want one another. But alas, it cannot happen because of X, Y, Z. Please stop it. There are more effective ways to build sexual tension

Third, there are a few 'duh' moments that I'm sure were purposely done to draw out the drama. For example: why didn't Ben say the Druid's name when he pulled Skye into that vision? Instead he left her a bloody map with his dying breath? This makes absolutely no sense.

Again let me reiterate, these things could certainly be annoying me more because of my mood OR they could legit be just that annoying. I haven't decided yet, so until then I'm not putting up a star rating.

[Jess Doerschuk · Rating 5 out of 5]

***I revived an ARC for an honest revoew***

I really liked the book! I think The chemistry between Skye and Lucas was amazing. Skye in general was a kickass character I loved her snark when it was called for, as well as her coffee additction. I was intrigued by her visions and the changes as the book moved on. Adding in the layer of the Druid being in her dreams and interacting with her was an awesome concept. Lucas was mildly frustrating at times in the overbearing nature he sometimes projected in regards to Skye and Lizzie but overall I loved him. I can’t wait to see how his powers as a Druid evolve now that he’s accepting that he is one and I’m curious to see how he’s going to learn what is it to be a Druid as well as how to harness his powers. Not going to lie Lizzie was my favorite character. That woman knows how to put her brother in his place as well as make a mean cup of coffee. I’m dying to know what happens next, how everything progresses and if the Druid can get taken down. I have a feeling this will be a trilogy so I will bide my time.

[Rachel Talavera · Rating 5 out of 5]

World building, Magical and awe-inspiring. All words I would use for this book. I loved this and I can't wait to see more from this duo. I love both authors independent work and this collab was amazing. I loved Skye and Lucas. Looking forward to more.

[Heather Gilbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a feeling of Destiny to this narrative, a facet that seems to annoy the characters as much as it amuses the reader.

Blood feuds, unbelievable attraction, hidden fates, lost realms, forgotten histories and new paths to discover... it's all here, plus a whole dose of danger and appeal. Skye, while still bogged down by things she can't control, is a strong and cautious character - one that steps up, even when it's obviously not in her best interest. Lucas is the kind of protagonist that seduces the reader slowly, with a dark and broody persona perfect for his law enforcement career, though still vulnerable enough to the ebbs and flows of fate around him. It's an attractive combination, which is exactly what the author seems to be going for.

All in all, this was a good Urban Fantasy. Fast and well written, it captured a few entertaining hours.\

Pros:
~Well written.
~I enjoyed the concept of Skye greatly.
~The attraction is palpable.
~His sister! Love her.

Cons:
~There is nothing truly original about this narrative. It's far from cookie-cutter, but there is still a
feeling that you've seen this story before.

Perspective:
~Third Person, Multiple POV

Ending Type:
~Episodic

Rating:
~R

Romantic Dynamic
~M/F

Character Age Range
~Adult

[A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story starts off brilliantly. Within seconds I was captured watching a scene unfold in an art gallery and eagerly trying to solve the puzzle.

I immediately connected with Skye’s love of coffee, but what intrigued me was her visions.
At first, I found them hazy as I tried to picture it through her eyes. As the story progressed the imagery and detail came to life bringing clarity to it all. I love the way she interacts within her dreams. I don’t want to say more about that as I feel I would give the story away.

The writing was fast paced and smoothly transitioned from one scene to a next. There were a few parts I needed to re-read, but I’m not sure if it was the writing or distractions that threw me off. I adore strong female characters and this book did not fail me. I would definitely recommend it to someone else.

[thebooksuccubus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading this! Skye is a strong-willed, snarky, seerer who keeps people at a distance so that she won't see death constantly. But all of that changes when she meet Lucas. She can't help but want to intervene when she see a women meeting her death when she touches him. They must work together for them all to stay alive even with the memories of her grandmother warning to never get near a druid. Fast paced paranormal romance with lots of action and quick wit! I'll be starting the next one right now!

[Gina Burkart · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow i was hooked from the very first word tell the very ending. this was a hard to put down as i wanting to know what would happen next. this story is a amazing story that is written by two amazing authors and they wrote a amazing story.

[Candyce Kirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Full review to come soon!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book was so alluring and captivating. The blurb pulled me right in, if I didn't have to work I would've finished it in one sitting! This book was filled with so much action, suspense, and so many twists and turns. All of that would have been plenty for a great book but then you add in the fantasy and the amazing characters and the slow-burn romance between Skye and Lucas; that's just a recipe for an amazing and successful book.

Both authors did a fantastic job of making the book read as one fluid piece, making it seem like only one author wrote it. I can't wait for the next book in the series to read more of the adventures that Skye, Lucas, Lizzie, and James go through.

I give this book 5 magical stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Mona Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book

I absolutely loved this book. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. Skye is a great character and I want to know more about her and Lucas

[Meleaha Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story of magic and gypsies. Skye is a gypsy seer, only she sees nothing but death. Lucas is a police detective, he doesn't believe in magic and things like that. From the moment they meet, their lives are intertwined. Can they manage to stay alive long enough to explore their intense connection?

[Thea Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic, mystery, romance, druids, and seers! A page turner! One of those books that draws you in until you lose track of time. Can't wait to read book two!

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Druids, Seers, and Magic, Oh My!

What an awesome introduction to a world filled with danger and the supernatural! I was drawn into this story from beginning to end so much so that the rest of the world just melted away! Lucas and Skye are amazing characters, and I dare you not to fall in love with them! I held my breath with ever passing chapter hoping they would be victorious in their fight against evil!

While I have read (and loved) The Chosen series by Meg Anne, this is my first time reading anything written by her co-author, Jessica Wayne, but it certainly won't be my last!

As this is the first book in this series, expect a major cliff that will leave you dying to get your hands on the next installment! Hurry up, ladies! I need more ASAP!!

[Wanda Siesicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a fantastic story. I was up until the wee hours of the morning because I didn't want to put this book down. I can't wait for the next book to see what else happens to these couples. Great coordination by these two authors. The story was so seamless that you can't tell that it was written by two authors.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC and was hooked from the first page! All the surprises kept coming and it was a fun read. Can’t wait for the next one! I need to know what happens next!!!

[Reading with 2 book lovers Sarah P - · Rating 3 out of 5]

I highly enjoyed skyes character and all the twists and turns in this story. This book isnt my usual type and I was surprised I enjoyed it so much.
3.7 stars

[Anna lost in stories *A* · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book :) this is the first book in what I think will be a trilogy, but I’m not entirely sure about it, so please don’t quote me on that ;) but it definitely IS the first installment, so let’s focus on that part ;) it’s co-written by two authors: one of them (Jessica Wayne) is completely new to me, and one of them (Meg Anne) is one of my favourites after I completely fell in love with her The chosen fantasy series :) here, they gathered forces to bring to life a paranormal / urban fantasy story with lots of potential :) so first, let me tell you a bit more about our main characters and the whole premise, before I get into all the reasons why I enjoyed this novel so much :)

Lucas and Skye are our main characters… he’s a Chicago detective, she’s an artist… but that’s not all about them ;) he’s a loving and protective brother with a great intuition when it comes to solving crimes… yeah, he can be a bit stubborn *coughs* understatement of the year *coughs* ;) but his intentions are mostly good, so you can forgive him for that ;) Skye is… well… she’s a Seer :) as in she has visions… with her, specifically, those are visions of other people deaths… yeah… it got real grim real fast… this whole thing of course takes a toll on her, she keeps her distance from people, especially because a lot of times, her visions are triggered by touch… this all changes when she meets Lucas and has a vision about a person connected to someone close to him… their paths will be connected from now on… dun dun duuuuunnnnn… ;) that’s all I can really say about the premise of the whole story, because nothing else is really explained in the synopsis and I don’t want to ruin a few surprises happening in the actual story :) I will just add that the book takes place in an alternate version of our world where we have people with magical abilities, but it’s not a well known fact… for all other details and descriptions you’ll just have to read the book, cause we learn along the way, with Lucas, what exactly is happening around him :) ok, now that we have this basic informations out of the way, let me get into my thoughts and feelings about this story :)

I gave it 4,5 stars :) I think it’s a really great start to a series :) full of great writing style… and let’s stop for a minute with this one… because I can’t believe that two separate people wrote it :) I am definitely impressed with how well this duo mixed, because the story flows effortlessly :) and speaking of the story… ;) it’s full of surprises and entertaining characters… because besides our main couple, we have at least two secondary ones that will play a bigger part in the future… and no, I am not naming anyone right now, I don’t want to spoil you who’s important ;) what I will say though, is that it’s a great start to a series…yes, I know I already mentioned it, but it’s worth repeating ;) slowly introducing us to all the rules and main players… not info-dumping everything within the first few chapters, and overwhelming you with all the details… this way, you can actually remember a lot of it, and won’t be forced into going back to the beginning to keep checking on stuff… ;) by the end of this first story, you are definitely hooked and left wanting more :) I’m definitely curious and can’t wait to see where this lovely duo will take us and this story in the next installment ;) another thing I adored is that the romance is definitely on the slow burn side of the scale… yes, there is this instant-ish connection between Lucas and Skye, but not a lot happens between them straight away… which I definitely appreciated, cause they are thrown into a much bigger, much more dangerous situation, and losing their minds over one another would be sort of silly ;) so yeah, the chemistry is definitely there, but so is the angst and anticipation… :) the tension is building, that’s all I’m gonna say about it :) all in all, I had a great time reading this book :) it had entertaining characters and story that kept me turning page after page, so if you are in the mood for some urban fantasy novel with a paranormal twist, a few surprises along the way and great writing style, definitely give this gem a try :)

XOXO

A

[Book Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

I did not know what to expect from this book, however, once I started reading I was fully invested in Skye and Lucas and the amazing world that Meg and Jessica created. You can just feel the sizzling heat coming off the pages between Skye and Lucas and the sweet connection between Lizzy and James is fun to read. This book is full of twists and turns, evil, magic, romance and mystery! I am excited to see what happens in book two - highly recommended exciting new book by the talented Meg Anne and Jessica Wayne.

[Tiera McMillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 Rounded up to 3. I think we have a really good premise here but we lost a little in the execution making it not as cohesive as I would have liked. There were some aspects of this story that were super rushed, and some that really didn't seem to move forward at all. For instance, the character relationships, to me, felt super rushed, they go from just meeting to BFF's practically overnight. I also felt the chemistry between Sky and Lucas felt a little awkward and forced. It was awkward in that the flirting always seemed a little off whether it be the situation or just the light heartedness of it in the face of impending doom. It was forced in that they really didn't have time to form that deep of a connection and then bam all of a sudden people were falling in love. Worldbuilding wise the book was ok it just really lacked the backstory to explain certain points that were brought up and referenced multiple times. I started to wonder in there if this was a spinoff and maybe I just missed the series with all the backstory and supernatural world 101.

Skye is a gypsy seer and artist extrordinaire. Her families curse is to have visions if someone is about to die but only if they touch her. Skye is bombarded with one such vision about a local dinner owner Lizzie. In an attempt to thwart fate Skye starts looking after Lizzie only to run into Lizzie's hot cop brother Lucas. His suspicious nature puts Skye on the spot about her heritage and gifts. Little does Lucas know, hes a part of this supernatural world too and it comes with a target on his back. As supernatural murders keep occuring its up to these characters to avoid their own deaths as well as try to put a stop to the one doing the murdering.

It was a fast read and interesting enough to stay involved. Not sure if I'll move on with this series yet I'm mulling it over.

[Fawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Star-Crossed

Things move quickly and there's no dragged out boring scenes. But there is the dreaded cliffhanger. The four main characters end up spending lots of time together as the danger from the druid with his evil plans threaten their lives.

[Diana Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

To be honest with you, I could not put this book down. I read three or four chapters a day. Reading this book has been shocking to me in unexpected ways. Lucas and Skye are both different, so different from each other that no one could ever imagine that they could fit together. Lucas is a detective and Skye is an awesome artist. Their lives could not be more different. But somehow throughout the book, their destinies merge together.

Skye is determined to help Lucas solve a crime and along the way they find out that solving this crime may not be as easy as they think. Lucas discovers some shocking things about himself and at that moment it seems like fate may pull him away from Skye forever but somehow it pulls them closer and despite the fact that the murderer is out there, Lucas and Skye start developing feelings for each other. No matter how hard they try to suppress the new feeling of love, it seems to be a helpful factor in their fight for justice.

Meg Anne and Jessica Wayne weave a story like nothing I ever read before. The characters jump out of the book and demand to be heard. The idea of how magic is incorporated into the story is incredible. A druid on a killing spree, there can't be anything better. I want to say that this book has been the best book I read that came out of a collaborative work. Somehow, these two authors made it work and the characters are even more vivid than normal. Lucas and Skye are a couple that should stay away from each other but the more I read about them, the more I think that they belong together.

For a long time, I thought writing with another Author was not a good idea. But Jessica Wayne and Meg Anne make it happen and it is magical. If there are two authors who blend together, it's these two ladies. I would love to see them write more books together in the future because I'm hooked on this series  and can't wait to read Book 2 and 3.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fast-paced read with romance and tons of dark magic.

Skye is a Gypsie and a Seer, whose visions always allow her to view someone's death. She usually doesn't try to get involved, since she's learned it doesn't change anything anyway. But when one vision leaves her with the strong desire to help, she soon finds herself wrapped up in the case of a serial killer, who is so much more than he seems. Not only that, but the detective she runs into is all that she does and does not need. But she can't seem to keep her eyes off of him.

This is a read for strong-heroine, dark magic, mystery lovers. It's fast paced from beginning to end and holds tons of twists and turns, which keep those pages turning. Skye is a strong heroine but not in the powerful-fighter way. Thanks to her visions, she's learned to be tough, but her weaknesses and, at times, lack of knowing what to do make her easy to root for and like. Her actions, for the most part, are understandable, and her heart is definitely in the right place. I'm am a little curious how she has absolutely no friends before this book (or real memories of anyone outside of her granny).

Lucas is the detective and Skye's heart-throb. He's got everything a hero needs and a very flirty attitude on top of it. The romantic tension between the two is very present and makes for a fun read. In the beginning, the come-on lines and interactions were a little off, but it settles as the book continues and makes for a great couple.

The book, unfortunately, end in a huge cliff-hanger. I would have liked a little more closure but it does makes the reader wonder what is still to come. The story is exciting, the evil guy is very fun to dislike, and the romance holds so much promise that it will be fun to see where all of this goes next.

I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed the magical world and characters enough to want to leave my honest thoughts.

[Jacqui Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't wait to go to Ireland. Star Crossed is the first in the series Cursed Hearts from Meg Anne. The story follows Skye and Lucas as they are thrown together unexpectedly after crime scenes start popping up around their town.
Skye Giovanni is a seer. She has the ability to see peoples deaths. Her first vision happened when she was very young. It has scarred her for life and she makes it her mission to not let anyone into her life. That is until she meets Detective Lucas MacConnell at one of her art shows. Now she is pulled into visions surrounding Lucas and his sister. Now she is on the hunt with Lucas to find out who is targeting the people Skye has come to love. It's a grim search for a Seer to take on but she can't watch any more people die.
Lucas MacConnell was captivated by Skye when he saw her standing on the balcony outside an art show his sister dragged him to. When he puts down the artist and her craft, little does he realize he just insulted her. That won't stop the detective from trying to get closer to the artist. In his quest for her attention, he finds out more about himself, mainly that he is a mythical being known as a Druid. His Irish background and stories from his grandfather now explain his ability to pick up on clues to solve a case. now he must solve all the murders before he becomes the next victim.
The story captivated me from the beginning. Written by two different authors, the relationships between the characters keeps you wanting to read on. Both are fighting their abilities but know also they must work together to keep Lucas and his sister safe. Now, they must go to Ireland to see Lucas' grandfather to learn more about his heritage and the abilities of a Druid. Pack your bags and get ready to go to Ireland in the next installment of this series. Thank you Meg Anne and Jessica Wayne for bringing us what looks to be an amazing series.

[Atlanta Whitlock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read books written by both of these authors and I know how extremely talented they are, so when I heard that they would be doing a book together I was really excited as they both have very different styles of writing so I knew it would be interesting to see how well their writing combined together. After reading this book I have to say that this was written amazingly and that their writing styles suited each other really well. For the first time in a while this was the first book that I picked up and as I was reading it I didn’t need to take breaks, I just ploughed through and was gutted when I got to the end because it was such an amazing story. I seriously couldn’t fault it at all and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one as I’m sure it’s just going to be as amazing as this first one. If you’ve not read either of their work then you should seriously go ahead and start as they are amazing writers.

Lucas has only ever tried to be there for his sister and to also make sure that they both have a good life by both doing something that love as careers, however after one trip to an art show just to please his sister, his life is never the same again and all because of one woman.

Skylar has always been surrounded by death, it’s not by choice but she does what she can to make sure it doesn’t affect her life. She’s known as a Seer but to the general public they have no idea what else is out there in the world.

[Lissette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skye Giovanni has been nursing a secret since she was seven years old. She's a seer, able to see what happens in the future. To her dismay, most of what she sees involves deaths at every turn. Many of which she can't stop no matter how much she may want to. Her life is soon turned upside down when she meets Lucas MacConnell. The fact that their lives are intertwined doesn't matter. The man makes her wants things she never knew she wanted. If she's to succeed in putting a stop to the chaos that now surrounds them, she'll have to put her trust in her innate abilities, something she knows always has the most unexpected results.

Star-Crossed is one of those books that's hard to put down. Action-packed, we follow Skye around as she tries to make sense of the visions that come to her at every turn. This is a character who sort of despises the gift she was born with. I think it's due to the fact that there's not much she can do when it comes to saving the people she sees within her visions.

The authors have created the kind of story that makes you want to dive into its pages and stay there. Complex characters do their damnedest to make sense of the world around them. This blend of urban fantasy and supernatural is a potent mix when it comes to magic and all it entails. Skye and Lucas have their hands full in trying to thwart their adversaries plans. I so can't wait to see if they'll succeed in doing so when the time comes.

[Kimberly J Bieniek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Can’t wait for the next installment!!! Must read!

I received this book as an ARC from Meg Anne, and I love her other series!

Loved the characters in this book. Skye is a strong female character who is a gypsy and can see people’s deaths. I love Lucas but it took him awhile to really believe he was a Druid. I can’t wait to see how he is once he learns to control his magical abilities. The evil Druid who is killing people creeps me out. He is trying to kill Lucas and his sister Lizzie. The creepiest is that he wants Skye. I just want to know why, since druids are supposed to hate seers/gypsies. Lizzie is a kick butt character. She knows how to keep her brother in line. Also she has also been almost killed twice but is staying strong and ready to fight the Druid.

Its keeping me in suspense and I can’t wait until the next book to see what’s going to happen. I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next book!!!