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Schooled in Magic #17
Cursed
King Randor has been defeated. Queen Alassa has taken her throne. The Kingdom of Zangaria can look forward to a new age of peace and prosperity. But their victory came at a terrible price. A moment before his death, King Randor hit Emily with a powerful curse.
She's lost her magic. She's losing her mind. She may soon lose her life.
As rumors start to spread, as her enemies start to gather, Emily searches desperately for the key to unlock the curse before it is too late. But the only hope seems to rest with House Fellini, an enigmatic family of magicians. Crippled, powerless, helpless, Emily places her life in their hands. If they can't help her, no one can.
But House Fellini has its secrets. As the family struggles to undo the curse before it's too late, Emily is drawn into a decades-old mystery that threatens to destroy the family, shatter her life ...
... And smash the entire world beyond all hope of repair.
She's lost her magic. She's losing her mind. She may soon lose her life.
As rumors start to spread, as her enemies start to gather, Emily searches desperately for the key to unlock the curse before it is too late. But the only hope seems to rest with House Fellini, an enigmatic family of magicians. Crippled, powerless, helpless, Emily places her life in their hands. If they can't help her, no one can.
But House Fellini has its secrets. As the family struggles to undo the curse before it's too late, Emily is drawn into a decades-old mystery that threatens to destroy the family, shatter her life ...
... And smash the entire world beyond all hope of repair.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 9, 2019
394 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 6, 2019
Another great book in the series.
I have read and enjoyed all the books in this series. Watching Emily grow as a person and as a magician as been a great pleasure. I often just check fantasy/sifi books out from the library, but this is a series I am proud to own in both the Kindle and Audible formats.
I have read and enjoyed all the books in this series. Watching Emily grow as a person and as a magician as been a great pleasure. I often just check fantasy/sifi books out from the library, but this is a series I am proud to own in both the Kindle and Audible formats.
June 3, 2019
Excellent change of pace
I have loved the series from the start. The last several books with the emphasis on revolution and the overthrow of the king seemed to get a bit overdrawn. Mr. Nuttall has come up with a nice change of pace from the war series. Honestly it is a more fun read than the past couple. Enjoy.
I have loved the series from the start. The last several books with the emphasis on revolution and the overthrow of the king seemed to get a bit overdrawn. Mr. Nuttall has come up with a nice change of pace from the war series. Honestly it is a more fun read than the past couple. Enjoy.
August 20, 2019
Amazing as always.
I am SO in love with this series. I anxiously await every new release. This series, I mean, it's up there with Harry Potter, with its own unique spin, and I love it. I don't know how so many more people don't know about it, but I recommend it as often as I can.
I am SO in love with this series. I anxiously await every new release. This series, I mean, it's up there with Harry Potter, with its own unique spin, and I love it. I don't know how so many more people don't know about it, but I recommend it as often as I can.
August 20, 2019
Good series of books! Looking forward to number 18!
May 12, 2019
By the time a series gets to book 17, the main question a review can answer is "Is the series still worth reading?" Here the answer is 'yes'. If you've enjoyed reading the series this far, keep reading. (If you have not been reading the series, and are curious, do yourself a favor and start at the first book, "Schooled in Magic".)
The author plays fair; both "Cursed" and the preceding book are complete on their own. Emily experiences actual growth. Frieda (who has been a bad-tempered plot device too often) also exhibits growth. Most of the characters are interesting - and many of them are likeable.
What happened immediately after Cabiria gained her magic seems unmotivated. Since it's a critical plot element (I'm trying to avoid spoilers here; I'll just say that we find out later in this book and it's important), that's unfortunate.
I look forward to the next book in this series. It's titled "Mirror Image", so apparently there will be a "Heart's Eye" interlude before Emily begins her apprenticeship. Every mention of Heart's Eye in this book and earlier books has included strong hints about its mirrors, so this should not come as a surprise. Personally, I'd have preferred to jump to the apprenticeship, since the way the author thinks about his world's magic is one of the more-engaging elements of this series. I'd also prefer to see more of the dangling plot lines resolved.
The author plays fair; both "Cursed" and the preceding book are complete on their own. Emily experiences actual growth. Frieda (who has been a bad-tempered plot device too often) also exhibits growth. Most of the characters are interesting - and many of them are likeable.
What happened immediately after Cabiria gained her magic seems unmotivated. Since it's a critical plot element (I'm trying to avoid spoilers here; I'll just say that we find out later in this book and it's important), that's unfortunate.
I look forward to the next book in this series. It's titled "Mirror Image", so apparently there will be a "Heart's Eye" interlude before Emily begins her apprenticeship. Every mention of Heart's Eye in this book and earlier books has included strong hints about its mirrors, so this should not come as a surprise. Personally, I'd have preferred to jump to the apprenticeship, since the way the author thinks about his world's magic is one of the more-engaging elements of this series. I'd also prefer to see more of the dangling plot lines resolved.
May 18, 2019
The lost your powers book
I have been a great fan of this series and i am looking forward to the next book... But i hate it when your hero loses their powers. Its the one thing that can happen that just bugs me. Still good story love the world but... ugh!
I have been a great fan of this series and i am looking forward to the next book... But i hate it when your hero loses their powers. Its the one thing that can happen that just bugs me. Still good story love the world but... ugh!
January 12, 2022
2022-01-11: I'm 63% of the way through this book as of right now. Listening to it on audiobook, because I can never seem to get around to actually reading it. In a way, the audiobook is worse than just reading it would be, because the performer has a particularly effective 'whining' voice and this book has SO MUCH WHINING. I started this book almost 3 years ago and haven't finished it in so long because I really really dislike "the hero loses their powers" story arcs. Especially when the hero is so dark and depressed about it for the entire book. I read books to escape dark and depressing crap. I keep pushing through now because I want to see what happens if/when she finally gets her powers back.
2022-01-12: Finally done. I can safely say that this is my least favorite book in the series so far. If I ever re-read the series from scratch, I'll be skipping this one. It might have been necessary for the story overall for Emily to feel weak and remember what it was like to be powerless in this world, but I don't have to like it. lol
I'll go get the next one in the series, hoping that the dark period is over and done with and I can resume enjoying it.
2022-01-12: Finally done. I can safely say that this is my least favorite book in the series so far. If I ever re-read the series from scratch, I'll be skipping this one. It might have been necessary for the story overall for Emily to feel weak and remember what it was like to be powerless in this world, but I don't have to like it. lol
I'll go get the next one in the series, hoping that the dark period is over and done with and I can resume enjoying it.
November 23, 2020
I am not a big fan of the whole MC loses his/her power normally since that is why I read fantasy for the magic. However this was a great book the best one since book 11. I had more or less given up hope that Christopher G. Nuttall would ever write a good book in this series again. Emily actually grows a lot through out this book. Several new characters are introduced that I really liked. Emily is back to the smart person we all enjoyed earlier in the series. Warning only read the following if you have read the book.
May 23, 2019
I'm a bit torn on this book, and I'd honestly go with three stars (instead of four) if not for my love for the series as a whole. The basic plot is interesting, and the resolution is ultimately satisfying, but the story was not developed or told as well as it could have been. Lots of build up, for the most part, with lots of redundant spinning-in-circles, but then several of the major events and turning points were handled and dispensed with far too quickly and easily. Overall, the characters and the story line in this case were not as complex, compelling, and sophisticated as the series in general has been. I hope that subsequent titles will be more a return to form. More importantly, I'm praying for the author, Christopher Nuttall, who's been battling some serious health concerns over the past year or more.
March 4, 2020
I admit I was nervous about a book with her with no magic and a curse that presumably would drive her back to the moping despondency as those curses are won’t to do. But this was a lively book of well grounded interesting characters and family dynamics. The surprise that I figured out late enough that it was engaging. The formula, but it played out a little differently and felt quite natural, though one moment was rushed. There are some common minor themes with the Family Shame which I’d just read immediately before this one. And I wondered if this was a trick to change up some power. Editing is much better than the earliest books. But overall a strong entry in the series with enough new that it feels fresh but at its core still the same series that I love. Unlikely to reread this one. There are some earlier ones I’m thinking of rereading.
May 15, 2019
Still decent and thought out, but I really only like it when Emily has power and can defend herself. I honestly got tired that most of the book was a pity party of her for herself. If maybe she used that time and research to learn more things that were mentioned while in search of a cure, i think i would have liked it more. I just wish there was a bit more and maybe some interesting magical discovery that she vows to try when she gets her power back.
Despite this, I am glad to have another book to read and that C.N. got it out with the personal struggles he has been going through. Can't wait for the next one as this is one of my all time favorite series given the world building and background.
Despite this, I am glad to have another book to read and that C.N. got it out with the personal struggles he has been going through. Can't wait for the next one as this is one of my all time favorite series given the world building and background.
July 16, 2019
A good entry on the ongoing series.
The plot device of having Emily's locked away from magic, and having to rely on mundane ways of solving mysteries and surviving her enemies work well. As usual, you're presented with a variety of elements, some of which will be immediately relevant, some that are a slow burn for later, and you find what is going on only as you get to the climactic finale.
I just feel a bit dissatisfied with the boyfriend issue, which feels a bit forced. There's also the epilogue, which is starting to go into trope territory, rather than the usual good story that M. Nuttall provides. But outside of that, it's still good.
The plot device of having Emily's locked away from magic, and having to rely on mundane ways of solving mysteries and surviving her enemies work well. As usual, you're presented with a variety of elements, some of which will be immediately relevant, some that are a slow burn for later, and you find what is going on only as you get to the climactic finale.
I just feel a bit dissatisfied with the boyfriend issue, which feels a bit forced. There's also the epilogue, which is starting to go into trope territory, rather than the usual good story that M. Nuttall provides. But outside of that, it's still good.
December 1, 2019
I am pleased as can be with the turn of events in this book. We are away from war, with mighty problems to struggled through, but this book does a wonderful job of focusing on interpersonal relationships, very much building some new ones of great interest. I love how Emily gets involved with the House Fellini, the details of the mansion, the involvement of Freda and Caleb--well done! Every character from past books that made their way into this one--all were brought in by the author with very good reason, nothing gratuitous. One of the best installments in this excellent series.
May 11, 2019
This was an awesome continuation of the story. Loved how Emily pretty much threw down the gauntlet in this book. People kept taking pot shots at her and she eventually was like to hell with y'all. I have one serious question about Emily's romantic relationships. Could it be possible that she eventually ends up with Void? I mean he always has seemed to be an option that has existed in a very loose manner.
October 14, 2019
Love a good book!
I do wish Emily was more approachable by someone of the opposite sex. I had high hopes for Cat, but she still was too paranoid without her powers. Then she met Jayson and now I can only hope something comes of that. I really think she would fit in well with Cabirias family. They might be the love she needs to repair her psyche. Here's waiting for the next installment.
I do wish Emily was more approachable by someone of the opposite sex. I had high hopes for Cat, but she still was too paranoid without her powers. Then she met Jayson and now I can only hope something comes of that. I really think she would fit in well with Cabirias family. They might be the love she needs to repair her psyche. Here's waiting for the next installment.
December 31, 2022
A worthy sequel to the previous books.
Emily awakens after her battle with a king turned necromancer, only to discover that he had managed to cast a curse--poweted by his death--that blocks her from her magic. How can a suddenly powerless ssorceress survive her enemies and regain her abilities in the face of depression? The answer appears to lie in the researches of a long-dead magician ...
Emily awakens after her battle with a king turned necromancer, only to discover that he had managed to cast a curse--poweted by his death--that blocks her from her magic. How can a suddenly powerless ssorceress survive her enemies and regain her abilities in the face of depression? The answer appears to lie in the researches of a long-dead magician ...
May 14, 2019
The series continues (after a delay, due to Christopher's cancer battles).
This story felt more cohesive than the previous few in the series, and is hopefully a return to getting the story back on track. There are still quite a few threads in Emily's story, however - a long way to go, in fact.
It felt short, but I'd rather that than getting bogged down in superfluous material.
This story felt more cohesive than the previous few in the series, and is hopefully a return to getting the story back on track. There are still quite a few threads in Emily's story, however - a long way to go, in fact.
It felt short, but I'd rather that than getting bogged down in superfluous material.
May 26, 2019
Christopher Nuttall never fails to satisfy!
The Adventures of Emily continue and we see a side of Emily that leaves never seen before. Emily has lost all of her magic in the final confrontation with King Randor.
she rallies magnificently, finding new friends and a new love and finally emerges triumphant in full possession of all of her power.
The Adventures of Emily continue and we see a side of Emily that leaves never seen before. Emily has lost all of her magic in the final confrontation with King Randor.
she rallies magnificently, finding new friends and a new love and finally emerges triumphant in full possession of all of her power.
May 28, 2019
Frustrating read
If you're a fan of series, then do continue reading this book. I picked it up just to continue the story.
Personally, I'm tired of all the whining. The character is whiny, the author goes on and on again on the same themes. It feels like he's just filling pages.
I only enjoyed 20-30% of the book. I would've rated 3.5 stars if I could.
If you're a fan of series, then do continue reading this book. I picked it up just to continue the story.
Personally, I'm tired of all the whining. The character is whiny, the author goes on and on again on the same themes. It feels like he's just filling pages.
I only enjoyed 20-30% of the book. I would've rated 3.5 stars if I could.
June 15, 2019
Another captivating read. Christopher: frisson - really?
As usual the basic conclusion is predictable (in general, not specific terms). However, getting there and learning the "specifics" is loads of fun. I have enjoyed this series immensely. Hope to see more of Void in the future
As usual the basic conclusion is predictable (in general, not specific terms). However, getting there and learning the "specifics" is loads of fun. I have enjoyed this series immensely. Hope to see more of Void in the future
July 5, 2019
Another great book in the series
Really liked to see Emily learn what would happen if her magic went away and dealing with the day to day issues of someone not being able to use their magic, like having a severe disability. I like the style Mr. Buffalo writes in, as it always draws me in. I do not think I have been disappointed in any of his books so far.
Really liked to see Emily learn what would happen if her magic went away and dealing with the day to day issues of someone not being able to use their magic, like having a severe disability. I like the style Mr. Buffalo writes in, as it always draws me in. I do not think I have been disappointed in any of his books so far.
January 9, 2020
Still love the series overall; however, this was probably one of my least favorites. If you have read the premise you know that Emily doesn't have magic and is trying to find a way to get it back. It was just a little slow and less exciting than the other books. Still happy I read it and am excited for the next one though!
May 15, 2020
As his dying act, King Randor cursed Emily. Now, her magic is gone. What is Emily, one of the most promising young magicians in the world going to do without her magic?
Find a family who specializes in magical research to help her get her magic back? Get in more trouble? Solve a family's decades old mystery? Why can't it be all of those?
Find a family who specializes in magical research to help her get her magic back? Get in more trouble? Solve a family's decades old mystery? Why can't it be all of those?
May 14, 2019
Brilliant!!!!
Awesome story, couldnt put it down! Absolutely gripping next-in-series and well worth reading! I can't wait for the next book, and really hope Christopher is feeling better- so he can write faster!!!!!
Awesome story, couldnt put it down! Absolutely gripping next-in-series and well worth reading! I can't wait for the next book, and really hope Christopher is feeling better- so he can write faster!!!!!
May 24, 2019
Emily has lost her magic and discovers exactly how difficult it is to live in the Nameless World without it.
Highly recommended for longtime fans of this series and for showing life in the Nameless World from a different perspective!
Highly recommended for longtime fans of this series and for showing life in the Nameless World from a different perspective!
May 29, 2019
Still coming back for more!
Have always been a big fan of this series since the first book and have enjoyed the consistency of the books! Looking forward to seeing it continue to grow and evolve!
Have always been a big fan of this series since the first book and have enjoyed the consistency of the books! Looking forward to seeing it continue to grow and evolve!
November 27, 2019
3.5 stars, I don't usually like when the main character losses his or her powers and this one is better than more story lines like that but still not as good as some of the other books in this series.
December 8, 2019
This one was a little slow, but still good. Also the Cat thing was odd. A little too much foreshadowing for my taste, so when the twist happens there is not really any surprise. I am really looking forward to the next book though. Rebuilding the school sounds great.
May 9, 2020
All these books are goddamn awesome, this was the "lost powers" book - have to have one.
Good - great new friends, more theory of magic and
Not so good - Frieda is a bit weird
Hope the series goes on forever
Good - great new friends, more theory of magic and
Not so good - Frieda is a bit weird
Hope the series goes on forever
November 7, 2020
More magical mayhem
Only in books can one person manage to have so much trouble find her. As the story continues our heroine continues to find her way through more challenges. Go Emily!
Only in books can one person manage to have so much trouble find her. As the story continues our heroine continues to find her way through more challenges. Go Emily!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews