Curse Marked

The Marked #1

by Rinna Ford

She doesn’t know anything about herself before the age of thirteen. Even the name she now answers to is not her own, but that isn’t the strangest thing about her.

Anne Smith was found on the steps of a homeless shelter with no memory of her life before that moment and a small tattoo-like mark in the center of her back that has grown and changed with each new moon. It’s been almost fifteen years, and the now the mark covers almost every inch of skin on her back.

With good reason, it’s impossible for her to let anyone in, to let anyone get close. Who would believe that her mark burns itself into her skin every twenty-eight days, leaving it larger than before? But, what if there was not only someone who believes her but has the answers to the questions that she desperately wants to ask? Would she finally be able to let people in?

The mark is almost complete. What will happen when there’s no more room left to grow?

Curse Marked is the first story in a medium-burn reverse harem series. Due to strong language and sexual situations, it is recommended for 18+.

Genres: Paranormal, Magic, Shapeshifters, Dragons, Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Supernatural

242 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 26, 2019

Reviews

[Tiera McMillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Super fast paced read. I felt like it started off great but about mid way through got a little on the rushed side, and ended up taking convenient plot paths almost to just speed things along. The world building has been a lot of fact dumping so far but honestly with the pacing of the story and the way things are playing out its almost like that was the only option. I think, for me personally, I would rather someone dump some world building on me than to leave me with a bunch of questions or concepts that aren't explained enough to make sense... so yea. LOL.

Our FMC, Anne aka Emelia was found at age 13 on the steps of a homeless shelter with no memory of her past. After growing up in one bad foster care home after another, she helps run the homeless shelter. Keeping her secret of a tattoo on her back that every new moon grows across her back side. Until the night she sees the unbelievable and learns her favorite homeless guy is actually her long lost uncle and the tattoo she wears is actually a curse keeping her shifter and magical sides contained until she was old enough to take care of herself. Only now her curse is wearing off and her magic and shifter sides are coming out.. and calling their mates. Emelia must take a crash course in how to shift and do magic before the council discovers that long ago when she was 13 she didn't really die. Its illegal for a caster to mate with a shifter and their offspring are sentenced to death. As more and more of Emelia's memories come back she remembers the life she had and the life she was forced to give up for her painful curse. Not only that her mates are coming for her... and when they find out that she is tainted.. they may decide to turn her in themselves..

I think that the series has potential but its just not quite there yet here at the end of book 1. We really don't even know exactly what were up against yet. I feel like for such a short read the author really did pack in all the action for sure. I sense a completely corrupt system but its just not all clear yet. I guess I'm down to continue the series to find out.

[Katy Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! It was definitely different then anything I have read recently and that made it all the more better. Rinna Ford is such an amazing author, she has a way of making you visualize the characters and surroundings ( if i ever win the lottery I am making Xans house!) I really feel for Emelia and hope that things work out for her. I am very interested in seeing where the relationships with Ronan goes. Definitely a must read!

[Irena Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse Marked is the first book in the Marked series and sets up the storyline for this amazing series. This book explains Anne's past and we find out that she isn't a human like she had believed but a hybrid of different supernatural races.

We are also introduced to her two mates. We mostly get to know Xander and I so can't wait to learn more about Ronan. These relationships start off complicated due to Anne's past but I can't wait to see their relationships change/grow. We also have some awesomely sexy scenes in this book. Very well written and steamy.

I loved the dynamic of her and her uncles. I hope to see more of them *crosses fingers*. Overall the book was enjoyable and I can't wait to read more of this series and I am so looking forward to seeing all of what Anne is capable of doing. I have a feeling we only got a glimpse at how awesome this character will become.

[Coco.V]

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[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

Curse Marked had me hooked right from the first page and I didn't want it to end. Emi's life just took a major turn when she is thrown into a world she didn't know existed where she has family and mates. Emi is the result of an illegal romance and some aren't happy about this and are out to get her. Others are on her side. The characters are great and the abilities of the characters are fun. Some sexy scenes with Emilia and one of her romantic interests, but we also meet another one so will be interesting to see where that goes. Ends on a bit of a cliff hanger so can't wait to see what happens next.

[Rhonda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Curse Marked is my favorite book that Rinna Ford has written so far. I was actually disappointed when it ended because I wanted to read more. Now I have to wait for the next to come out. This was a good book, it is about a girl who does not know who she is, she woke up at about age 13 with no prior memories. Raised in foster homes, had a hard life, and a weird tattoo that grows with each new moon. This book is about her 15 years after she woke up on the steps of the shelter not knowing who she was and now finally after all this time discovering who and what she is. I don't want to give the book away so read it, you won't be disappointed.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic introduction to this epic new fantasy series. We meet Anna Smith aka Emelia, she's spunky, tough and completely screwed up.

Rinna did an impressive job of building this new world and characters. A supernatural world submerged into our own, your neighbours, friends or Co workers could be a witch.

This book contains some highly emotional scenes as well as some intense sexually motivated scenarios. In other world it gets hot hot hot. So sit back get comfortable and enjoy because once you start you won't be moving for a while.

[Margaux Espinosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was great, I adore the characters, the storyline is original and intriguing, and the detail and world building are great. Devlin and Ainsley are amazing and treat her so well, Xan is fantastic and I look forward to more Ronan as well. Poor “Anne” goes through so much in her life and just when she thinks things are going fine, all hell breaks loose and her life completely changes. Not only that, she isn’t even the person she thought she was. Rinna Ford did a fantastic job, I love her writing and imagination and I very much look forward to book two.

[Dawntay Armonta · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading this book, found myself saying " Well I didn't see that coming." It was a book I didn't want to stop reading. I just love Emi for her courage and strength. This is very well written, and you don't want to put it down till finished. When I hit the end, my only thought is I want more. I want to know what comes next, will there be a happily ever after? This one I will reread many times.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first in a new series and what a great way to start it. I really enjoyed this book, when you expect certain scenes to go one way it went another unexpected way( in a good way). Great plot/storyline with enough background to explain and help the reader understand what's going on and great characters. I was a little confused by how the main character Emelia was acting in the beginning but her character changed and developed during the story. Cant wait for more of this story.

[Lisa Mettler · Rating 5 out of 5]

FABULOUS!!! I couldn't get enough of these characters. The story moves so fast and before you know it, it's over and you're telling yourself "No!! That can't be it. I need more!!" I've read hundreds of Paranormal Romance books and I can say this book is truely unique. As if we ever can get enough dragons and magic. But Rinna pumped it up to a whole new level. Went where no one has in my opinion. Can't stand that I have to wait for the next one.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy Guacamole!!!!

So totally unexpected!!!! I totally fell in love with book. Even though I cried. And I really hope Emi gets her wish about something. I dont know what I was expecting when I started reading but it was so much more!!!! Cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next. Great job Rinna!!! This was another great book from you!!!

[thebooksuccubus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some many unexpected twist and turns. This book takes no time getting into the action. And nothing is as it has seemed her whole life. Is Anne even who she truly is? The romance is heart stopping, true love is an all in kind of love. You'll also get some great humor out of Ainsley, you love him. Anne must now learn to fight for the future she wants and the destiny others believe she is meant.

[Courtney Clover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Rinna Ford blew it up again! I am in awe of her unique ability to paint such vivid pictures. At times I forget I'm reading and reference her work as a movie. Beautiful work, a quick read full of mystery, action and just plain fun.

Can't wait for more!

[Nicole Hicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. I was hooked before I knew it. I couldn't put it down, I love how she has no one, then everyone, then almost no one. I was disappoint to see it end. It left me wanting more. Two thumbs up and recommendations from me.😁

[teresa hillendahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse marked was defiantly a different world than I am used to but I loved it. I thought the character building was perfect, the world captured me right from the start and kept me guessing

[Linda Knoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg such a great book. I loved it so much. I laughed,cried,and got mad. All around a great book and I can't wait too read more.

[Pickles (Madi) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome book! Very different but a page turner nonetheless! I can't wait for the next one in this series to come out!!!

[Belinda Clemons · Rating 5 out of 5]

half caster and half dragon Emi isn't supposed to be alive, she came from a forbidden love, but with a curse handed down by her mother in a form of a growing mark, she was taken and hid from the supernatural world. Xan a dragon shifter is just great I love his character a lot. I just love them together. one scene has me weeping and I hope everything will turn out ok. I love the emotion in this book you can feel it rolling of the pages especially with the way Emi is worried that the Council will find her. also I was surprised at the cabin scenes and with what happened there.

[Jackie - Fire & Ice Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Awesome

I'm so addicted to paranormal books, and this one definitely gave me what I was looking for. It's so addicting, action packed, light romantic, and unique. I'm so excited to read the next book. I just know I will devour it when I get my hands on it. I highly recommend this fast pace book.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have a particular fondness with Fantasy/Paranormal based Reverse Harem stories. I do not know if it’s because of the juggling the author is required to do with all the characters, or just because I normally get a HEA out of them. This is a new author to me, and I will get to meet her in a couple of months so wanted to give her a read.

I like where the author is going with the story, I like that Anne has a shifter DRAGON as her first mate and I feel her characters are solid. I already have some characters that I dislike and it’s going to take a long time for them to redeem themselves, I adore where the first & second “escape” houses are located, and can I just say, every girl should be so lucky to have two amazing uncles that Anne/Emelia has! So truly, best story ever, no, but that is a very soft no, and I am interested enough to continue to the next story, and I’ll like being able to ask the author questions about it when I meet her. As most RH stories this will carry over a few books as Anne/Emelia grows into her own powers as she meets the rest of her harem.

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

not quite 3 & 1/2 stars.
I thought this sounded interesting from the blurb, so grabbed it. The book moved real slow, it lost my interest a few times & I almost quit reading. The world building was a learn as the FMC does, since she was raised human and is dropped into the supernatural world with no knowledge. The time frame left a lot of questions, from the amount of time she was cursed as a child before the curse breaks as an adult, and the amount of time she spent with her uncles -before they are separated, that it left me feeling a little confused. Then Emelia leans so heavily on her uncles & it didn't seem like she was with them that long to learn much from them & was never shown asking questions or being taught. Then she relies on her dragon mate for support instead of trying to learn more about the supernatural world in general & be able to take care of herself. She just did not seem like a strong enough character to be believable in this roll. Add in that she doesn't question things that are happening, just taking everyone's word. This had just enough bones to it, that it made me want to hesitantly move on to book 2 to see where it goes.

[Melanie C · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book...It was AMAZING...I love the Characters, I felt that they could be like a friends or family in my own life.. When i started reading it, I was drawn in, I felt for Emi's Life, I know the feelings of abandonment and being afraid to let someone in and when you do, your afraid they are going to find one small detail and just up and leave, so you leave first knowing you could pass the chance of something real, but of course in this book, it hasn't happen...but anyway there are so many other characters in this book, that you will feel Love, Passion and Sadness, and Hate all rolled up in one story, I want to give this book more than five stars, it was an Amazing read and can't wait til the next book....Also the Author's Writing was amazing too...So Check it out you won't be disappointed....

[Heather Gilbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good intro

This sets up the series nicely and alludes to the kush scenery to come in terms of meta plot. While I was a bit disappointed in how some of this played out, and the reactions of the characters, I still found quite a bit of sympathy with the FMC and her confusing predicament. I wonder how she is going to cope, big just with the mate thing, but the mother issue....

Pros:
- Good first few pages, opened the story right up.
- The mark growth is unique.
- Leaves us with more questions.

Cons:
- Some info dump syndrome due to first book curse
- Reactions not always, or even remotely, understandable.
- World building is a bit muddled.

[Jessica Traver cashen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read, well written with a great plot and characters. I was engrossed from start to finish. The world building was awesome. I love her uncles Devlin and Ainsley.....I hope to see more of them. “Anne” aka Emelia isn’t the person she thought she was. She has been through alot growing up, and she just found out she is part of a paranormal world with other paranormals wanting to kill her. She also has 2 love interests Xan and Ronan. We find out alot about Xan in this story.....i cant to find out more about Ronan. Ford did a fantastic job, and I cant wait to read book two.

[Seragrime · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a hard review to write because honestly its hard to point at exactly what I didn't enjoy about this book.

Its edited, the writing is fine and the world building is sparce but not horrible.

Just something about it is not hitting for me. I read for enjoyment and this has just been a slog. I've picked it up and put it down so many times that I finally DNF'ed at Ch 17.

I'm just writing this because as a reader it sucks when a book is a miss for you but all the reviews just rave about everything.

[Blair Parent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

This book was well written. I like the chemistry and tension between the characters and the story line. The main character has been through a lot and if you have any triggers just be warned. Although not mentioned it detail, only quick conversation, there is no doubt she had it rough in the foster system and it is confirmed in the last few chapters, only stated but still good to be warned.

[Che is Slowly Getting Back to Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so intrigued from the start of the book, but the more i read it became disappointing.

The heroine is in her late 20’s but her inner dialogue sometimes read like she’s in her teens. Its both good and bad i guess

I loved her uncles and her memories of a young Xan was the cutest.

So far it seems like it will be a ménage, i dont really see how it could turn into a RH, but i’ll still continue in the story.

[Natasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Instalove

I don't like not finishing a book so I read it all. But should have stopped as soon as she met the first mate. Couldn't get in board with the MC as she's from a foster home, states that she doesn't trust people or have relationships but its instalove as soon as she meets her mates. Trusts them implicitly even though she's been told that fated mates can be wrong. Gets mad and irrational over simple things. Not something to reread. Wont look for the next book.

[Tiffany Copple · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely fabulous. I was hooked from the first few pages. Anne has no idea who she really is , all she knows is she has a tattoo that changes with every new moon and she has no memories from before she was 13. Everything changes one night in a dark alley -and she comes face to face with someone from her past. Ok I am a huge fan of Rinna Ford and this book is a great example of why. It is fast-paced and kept me interested the whole way through. I can not wait to read book 2 .