What do you think?
Rate this book
Cursed Hearts #1
Lyrics & Curses
Lark Espinoza could get lost in her music—and she’s not so sure anyone in her family would even care to find her. Her trendy, party-loving twin sister and her mother-come-lately Beth, who’s suddenly sworn off men and onto homemaking, don’t understand her love of cassette tapes, her loathing of the pop scene, or her standoffish personality. For outcast Lark, nothing feels as much like a real home as working at Bubble’s Oddities store and trying to attract the attention of the cute guy who works at the Vinyl shop next door—the same one she traded lyrical notes with in class.
Auden Ellis silences the incessant questions in his own head with a steady stream of beats. Despite the unconditional love of his aunt-turned-mother, he can’t quit thinking about the loss of his parents—or the possibility he might end up afflicted with his father’s issues. Despite his connection with lyric-loving Lark, Auden keeps her at arm’s length because letting her in might mean giving her a peek into something dangerous.
When two strangers arrive in town, one carrying a mysterious, dark object and the other playing an eerie flute tune, Lark and Auden find that their painful pasts have enmeshed them in a cursed future. Now, they must come to terms with their budding attraction while helping each other challenge the reflection they see in the mirror. If they fail, they’ll be trapped for eternity in a place beyond reality.
*Set in 1985 and full of nostalgia! Perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Pretty in Pink!
Auden Ellis silences the incessant questions in his own head with a steady stream of beats. Despite the unconditional love of his aunt-turned-mother, he can’t quit thinking about the loss of his parents—or the possibility he might end up afflicted with his father’s issues. Despite his connection with lyric-loving Lark, Auden keeps her at arm’s length because letting her in might mean giving her a peek into something dangerous.
When two strangers arrive in town, one carrying a mysterious, dark object and the other playing an eerie flute tune, Lark and Auden find that their painful pasts have enmeshed them in a cursed future. Now, they must come to terms with their budding attraction while helping each other challenge the reflection they see in the mirror. If they fail, they’ll be trapped for eternity in a place beyond reality.
*Set in 1985 and full of nostalgia! Perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Pretty in Pink!
350 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2020
26 people are currently reading
1591 people want to read
About the author
Candace Robinson
61 books1,112 followersI spend my days consumed by words and hoping to one day find my own DeLorean time machine. My life consists of avoiding migraines, admiring Bonsai trees, watching classic movies, and living with my husband and daughter in Texas—where it can be forty degrees one day and eighty the next!
Sign up for my newsletter to hear about awesome things! http://eepurl.com/dhV0yv
Sign up for my newsletter to hear about awesome things! http://eepurl.com/dhV0yv
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 13, 2022
Lyrics & Curses is the first of the Cursed Hearts duology written by Candace Robinson that falls in the young adult and paranormal genres. I've read most of Robinson's previous books and short stories, which meant I had to get an early release when this one became available. As the cover and title suggest, this book is ripe with drama, music, and the unknown.
Lark and Auden are near the end of high school, thinking about college. They've hooked up once or twice before, but they mostly don't see each other much these days. When they do, it's been random sharing of lyrics for music, usually from the 1980s followed a bit of hot and heavy dreams. They work next door to one another and often encounter a weird sound and fading image in the nearby street or alley. Is it real? Were they drugged? Have space creatures invaded? It's not clear for most of the book, at least until a major climax happens... and then, we realize there's something very wrong in their hometown. Will they solve it before becoming trapped in a strange place before it's too late?
Lark has two sisters, and a not-so-great mother, which endears her to us. Auden lost his parents but has a loving pseudo-parent and two younger brothers. We immediately feel for both characters, and I've come to appreciate how well Robinson writes for the typical teenager. Typical in terms of attitude and passion, definitely not typical in terms of view on life and experiences. Wow! These two kids have had it rough, but when we see them conquer and earn small wins early on, we feel good about their futures. That is... until the strange couple with the object being sold to one of the stores makes the tale even more complex.
Beyond the main mystery / paranormal / romance plot, we have the awesome and amazing 1980s backdrop. Each chapter is about the lyrics for a popular song from the decade, and having grow up as a preteen in the 1980s, and dating in the early 1990s to some of these songs, it was a wonderful trip down memory lane. Clever at namedropping and imagery creation, the author weaves a fun and nostalgic story to truly make us feel like we're living in the decade.
So... now that we get to the big cliffhanger (of sorts) in the end, we must ask ourselves, what's planned for part two? We met two very interesting characters, kinda watched some tragic ends to other people's stories, and had our minds left guessing how much was actually real. Looking forward to seeing where this one goes!
Lark and Auden are near the end of high school, thinking about college. They've hooked up once or twice before, but they mostly don't see each other much these days. When they do, it's been random sharing of lyrics for music, usually from the 1980s followed a bit of hot and heavy dreams. They work next door to one another and often encounter a weird sound and fading image in the nearby street or alley. Is it real? Were they drugged? Have space creatures invaded? It's not clear for most of the book, at least until a major climax happens... and then, we realize there's something very wrong in their hometown. Will they solve it before becoming trapped in a strange place before it's too late?
Lark has two sisters, and a not-so-great mother, which endears her to us. Auden lost his parents but has a loving pseudo-parent and two younger brothers. We immediately feel for both characters, and I've come to appreciate how well Robinson writes for the typical teenager. Typical in terms of attitude and passion, definitely not typical in terms of view on life and experiences. Wow! These two kids have had it rough, but when we see them conquer and earn small wins early on, we feel good about their futures. That is... until the strange couple with the object being sold to one of the stores makes the tale even more complex.
Beyond the main mystery / paranormal / romance plot, we have the awesome and amazing 1980s backdrop. Each chapter is about the lyrics for a popular song from the decade, and having grow up as a preteen in the 1980s, and dating in the early 1990s to some of these songs, it was a wonderful trip down memory lane. Clever at namedropping and imagery creation, the author weaves a fun and nostalgic story to truly make us feel like we're living in the decade.
So... now that we get to the big cliffhanger (of sorts) in the end, we must ask ourselves, what's planned for part two? We met two very interesting characters, kinda watched some tragic ends to other people's stories, and had our minds left guessing how much was actually real. Looking forward to seeing where this one goes!
May 12, 2020
Set in 1985? Stranger Things meets Pretty in Pink? Paranormal Romance? I’m in! I may be biased though since I wrote it! 😂❤️
Want to read
May 21, 2020Well, slap me into some Guess jeans, add a side pony, and call me Stacey!! Pretty in Pink meets Stranger Things??!!! 80’s paranormal romance?!!! I could die happy!
June 20, 2020
Lark and Auden both have home lives that are less than normal and find their shared love of music could become a lifeline to reality as they are transported into a mirror world and no one knows they could lose their very souls if they can’t get back. With an attraction to each other that seems to stutter stop before it even gets started, these two must find a way to break the curse they have fallen into the day two strangers came to town. Why has this happened only to them? Fate has a strange way of bringing people together.
Candace Robinson is back with the first of a duology geared toward young adult readers who enjoy a touch of the paranormal, the magic of music and the darkness of the unknown. LYRICS & CURSES is a wonderfully dark read that challenges the imagination and dares us not to believe this just might be real! Great teen characters, an edgy feel and music, what more could one want? The music may be from the eighties, but, they are classics! You may even find yourself singing while you read the clever way these two have devised to know it is them.
Intense, creative and pure Candace from cover to cover! Now I wonder what will happen next!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Candace Robinson! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Cursed Hearts - Book 1
Publisher: Filles Vertes Publishing (November 10, 2020)
Publication Date: November 10, 2020
Genre: YA Paranormal
Print Length: 350 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Candace Robinson is back with the first of a duology geared toward young adult readers who enjoy a touch of the paranormal, the magic of music and the darkness of the unknown. LYRICS & CURSES is a wonderfully dark read that challenges the imagination and dares us not to believe this just might be real! Great teen characters, an edgy feel and music, what more could one want? The music may be from the eighties, but, they are classics! You may even find yourself singing while you read the clever way these two have devised to know it is them.
Intense, creative and pure Candace from cover to cover! Now I wonder what will happen next!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Candace Robinson! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Cursed Hearts - Book 1
Publisher: Filles Vertes Publishing (November 10, 2020)
Publication Date: November 10, 2020
Genre: YA Paranormal
Print Length: 350 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 6, 2020
This book was just so much fun to read. I was born in the 80's and absolutely loved the fashion and music, and this had it all. A lot of thought was put into matching songs with each chapter, and now I really want to watch The Wedding Singer. And it was such a unique story that I really did not know what would happen next. I really liked Lark and definitely would be friends with her. Auden had his walls up, but I enjoyed getting to know him more as the story progressed. Also, I really want to work where they did. That place sounds awesome. Can't wait to see where this story goes next!
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC of this book.**
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC of this book.**
May 6, 2020
**In all clarity, I worked as line editor on this novel**
What can I say, except I took a roaring ride back to the 80's with clothing descriptions and music descriptions so vivid I could picture myself back during those days! Loved the nostalgia, first and foremost, but don't let me forget the simmering romance between the two MCs and all of the obstacles (and supernatural curses!) they had to overcome to finally be together in the end. It made my little sentimental heart pitter-patter. Though I'm not usually one for a side of fantasy in my story, this one was intriguing and kept me guessing.
I won't give away too many details except this is definitely one you should add to our TBR! You won't regret it! And if you're a child of the 80's like me, get ready for that trip down memory lane!
What can I say, except I took a roaring ride back to the 80's with clothing descriptions and music descriptions so vivid I could picture myself back during those days! Loved the nostalgia, first and foremost, but don't let me forget the simmering romance between the two MCs and all of the obstacles (and supernatural curses!) they had to overcome to finally be together in the end. It made my little sentimental heart pitter-patter. Though I'm not usually one for a side of fantasy in my story, this one was intriguing and kept me guessing.
I won't give away too many details except this is definitely one you should add to our TBR! You won't regret it! And if you're a child of the 80's like me, get ready for that trip down memory lane!
November 17, 2020
The beginning dragged on.
We didn't get into the thick of it until about 50% in.
After part III started everything moves quickly, but I felt like the supernatural aspect of the novel was barely explained, and what was explained left me unsatisfied.
There is such a thing as too much mystery. I felt like the set up of the characters took too long. A few instances of the characters being confronted with the supernatural and then being hit by the supernatural train, therefore starting the intriguing part of the book sooner, would have made for a more enjoyable read.
As it stands we spend a lot of time setting up, and reminiscing, the 80s culture. Madonna gets mentioned a lot (in a bad light because our MC is too good for pop), there is a Rocky Horror viewing of course (I definitely felt the author's love for the 80s culture in between the pages), and a bunch of band names get thrown around since the MCs spend their time exchanging song lyrics. AND YET we don't get any actual lyrics on paper (copyrights perhaps?). Just felt like if we actually could see what they are writing to each other instead of being told "this or that song by whatever band" it would have made more of an impact.
Lyrics & Curses is also heavy on the romance. I love romance, I got Colleen Hoover/Ilona Andrews on speed dial (kidding, but I wish). I just wasn't digging Auden and Lark together? I felt they each were being very aloof towards each other and neither had the balls to come out with their feelings. Specially Auden. We all have our issues I know, and the attitude of the characters was explained very well. I just wasn't in love with their love. If a Titanic situation had happened I would not have shed a tear. HOWEVER these are very believable teenagers and I'm sure a lot of peeps will sympathize with their experience/life outlook.
The supernatural aspect of the novel (and the unveiling of it) could have used a little more work. It is clunky, and not a lot is explained, whatever IS explained is done in passing almost like this entire first book was just a way to set up the second book in which we will actually get to see the supernatural aspect in full force. The "curse" is just bizarre, as is the way for our characters to get out of the curse (also why did it have to have a time limit?). Mirrors are involved, mysterious people dressed in black who play Bowie's "space oddity" almost exclusively (why this song in particular? Does it matter? Do each person the supernatural target get to hear a specific song? Not explained!), and doppelgangers.
Lyrics & Curses has intriguing aspects, however these aspects are not revealed at a good pace. We spend a lot of time setting up the 80s nostalgia, which can be both the books' strength and weakness. I would have liked to have spent more time exploring the paranormal oddities. It sounds to me like the second book is going to be the one to look forward to (specially if maybe it will be the story of the mysterious people in black who are looking for a Bowie contract).
PS; I was provided a review copy in exchange for an honest review. Thanks go to the publisher!
We didn't get into the thick of it until about 50% in.
After part III started everything moves quickly, but I felt like the supernatural aspect of the novel was barely explained, and what was explained left me unsatisfied.
There is such a thing as too much mystery. I felt like the set up of the characters took too long. A few instances of the characters being confronted with the supernatural and then being hit by the supernatural train, therefore starting the intriguing part of the book sooner, would have made for a more enjoyable read.
As it stands we spend a lot of time setting up, and reminiscing, the 80s culture. Madonna gets mentioned a lot (in a bad light because our MC is too good for pop), there is a Rocky Horror viewing of course (I definitely felt the author's love for the 80s culture in between the pages), and a bunch of band names get thrown around since the MCs spend their time exchanging song lyrics. AND YET we don't get any actual lyrics on paper (copyrights perhaps?). Just felt like if we actually could see what they are writing to each other instead of being told "this or that song by whatever band" it would have made more of an impact.
Lyrics & Curses is also heavy on the romance. I love romance, I got Colleen Hoover/Ilona Andrews on speed dial (kidding, but I wish). I just wasn't digging Auden and Lark together? I felt they each were being very aloof towards each other and neither had the balls to come out with their feelings. Specially Auden. We all have our issues I know, and the attitude of the characters was explained very well. I just wasn't in love with their love. If a Titanic situation had happened I would not have shed a tear. HOWEVER these are very believable teenagers and I'm sure a lot of peeps will sympathize with their experience/life outlook.
The supernatural aspect of the novel (and the unveiling of it) could have used a little more work. It is clunky, and not a lot is explained, whatever IS explained is done in passing almost like this entire first book was just a way to set up the second book in which we will actually get to see the supernatural aspect in full force. The "curse" is just bizarre, as is the way for our characters to get out of the curse (also why did it have to have a time limit?). Mirrors are involved, mysterious people dressed in black who play Bowie's "space oddity" almost exclusively (why this song in particular? Does it matter? Do each person the supernatural target get to hear a specific song? Not explained!), and doppelgangers.
Lyrics & Curses has intriguing aspects, however these aspects are not revealed at a good pace. We spend a lot of time setting up the 80s nostalgia, which can be both the books' strength and weakness. I would have liked to have spent more time exploring the paranormal oddities. It sounds to me like the second book is going to be the one to look forward to (specially if maybe it will be the story of the mysterious people in black who are looking for a Bowie contract).
PS; I was provided a review copy in exchange for an honest review. Thanks go to the publisher!
April 4, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! I loved following Auden and Lark and getting characters so real and true to themselves. They aren't your typical teenagers. They keep to who they are even when battling demons of their own. The beginning sucks you into them as people with a side of suspense of paranormal then by the end you are biting your finger nails unsure how things are going to play out. The book is very well written with a flow only this author seems to be able to pull off. I loved every second and know I will be rereading it for years to come.
June 11, 2020
I admit that when I first heard the title to this book, I wasn’t sure what I was going to get. I was pleasantly surprised.
Lark and Auden came together over their love for music and song lyrics. Both are full of self doubt due to their family issues, but when two strangers appear, they are shoved together into a walking nightmare. They have been cursed and must find a cure or they will cease to exist. Unable to be heard or seen by those around them, they only have each other to rely on.
The suspense and tension never stops in this spooky story. It is a real page turner as you cheer on the couple while trying to understand what is happening and why. I highly recommend this story.
Lark and Auden came together over their love for music and song lyrics. Both are full of self doubt due to their family issues, but when two strangers appear, they are shoved together into a walking nightmare. They have been cursed and must find a cure or they will cease to exist. Unable to be heard or seen by those around them, they only have each other to rely on.
The suspense and tension never stops in this spooky story. It is a real page turner as you cheer on the couple while trying to understand what is happening and why. I highly recommend this story.
June 13, 2020
This book took me there. I loved every bit of the vivid details in this world. The ominous feeling of the (spoiler) and how it seriously sent chills down my spine. Love, 80's, Love, Curses, Love, and some mystery and I was HOOKED. Auden and Lark hold a special place in my heart. Their journey is fraught with emotion and danger and healing. And Candace did an AMAZING job capturing all of it.
Going to admit I got to work on this book. ❤❤❤❤ And, I get to read the next one in the series well before everyone!!!😈
I can't recommend this book enough. And it needs to be on Netflix. I said what I said.😊
Going to admit I got to work on this book. ❤❤❤❤ And, I get to read the next one in the series well before everyone!!!😈
I can't recommend this book enough. And it needs to be on Netflix. I said what I said.😊
August 24, 2020
The first thing that comes to mind: unique.
The story is set in the 80s & it’s executed perfectly. When I read it, I felt like I was transported back in time. :)
It’s the start of summer. Lark works at a Bubble’s Oddities with her best friend. Across the story, in music shop works Auden. When the school was still in, they connected with exchanging the lyrics of the songs (that reminds me so much of high school, I and my best friends use to do that all the time :)) just a few decades after :D) and hooked a few times after. But they are both kin on keeping each other on arm’s length.
It all spices up when two strangers arrive in town, bring with them a whole lot of weird. :) Lark and Auden don’t realize that they are being cursed until it is too late and they trapped in the place in between. With only two weeks to break the curse or they lose their lives forever.
The first half is a bit slower, with a lot of world-building and setting the story, the second part is faster, with unique paranormal & high stakes.
Also, I loved the ending. It just opens up the possibilities, & I look forward to what will happen next! :)
Lark and Auden are both moody and a bit lost and both very much into the music. :) (I’m all for that :))Lark grew up with an absent mother, who recently came back and tries to play the role of mother. She has a twin sister, who couldn’t be more different and an older sister who escaped to college and never looked back. Auden lost both of his parents when he was 2 and lived with his aunt. After finding out what happened with his birth parents, he is afraid to get to close, to let anyone in.
When they are cursed, they only have each other. It’s just the sweetest romance. :)
received an Arc
The story is set in the 80s & it’s executed perfectly. When I read it, I felt like I was transported back in time. :)
It’s the start of summer. Lark works at a Bubble’s Oddities with her best friend. Across the story, in music shop works Auden. When the school was still in, they connected with exchanging the lyrics of the songs (that reminds me so much of high school, I and my best friends use to do that all the time :)) just a few decades after :D) and hooked a few times after. But they are both kin on keeping each other on arm’s length.
It all spices up when two strangers arrive in town, bring with them a whole lot of weird. :) Lark and Auden don’t realize that they are being cursed until it is too late and they trapped in the place in between. With only two weeks to break the curse or they lose their lives forever.
The first half is a bit slower, with a lot of world-building and setting the story, the second part is faster, with unique paranormal & high stakes.
Also, I loved the ending. It just opens up the possibilities, & I look forward to what will happen next! :)
Lark and Auden are both moody and a bit lost and both very much into the music. :) (I’m all for that :))Lark grew up with an absent mother, who recently came back and tries to play the role of mother. She has a twin sister, who couldn’t be more different and an older sister who escaped to college and never looked back. Auden lost both of his parents when he was 2 and lived with his aunt. After finding out what happened with his birth parents, he is afraid to get to close, to let anyone in.
When they are cursed, they only have each other. It’s just the sweetest romance. :)
received an Arc
May 13, 2020
Beta read for the author.
Update 05/12/2020
Today is the cover reveal for Lyrics & Curses! Head over to my blog to read more about it here!
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
Update 05/12/2020
Today is the cover reveal for Lyrics & Curses! Head over to my blog to read more about it here!
My Blog ¦ Bookstagram ¦ Twitter ¦ Pinterest ¦ Facebook
May 28, 2020
This book is amazing! So many little details bring the decade to life and the characters are instantly relatable. The whole concept of the mirror dimension is unique too. Go read this ASAP!
December 29, 2021
*** Note : I received e-copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author for review copy. ***
* 4.5 Stars *
Lyrics & Curses was intriguing first paranormal book in Cursed Hearts duology that revolved around Auden and Lark, their shared love for music and how they try to stop the curse of another dimension. It was about troubled past and childhood, friendship, love, family and music.
Writing was easy to follow and gripping filled with 80’ setting, style and music. It was third person dual perspective narrative from Lark and Auden’s POV that gave more depth to characters. Plot was interesting filled with curses, objects from other dimension, and lot of suspense and tension.
Music had major role like another character in book. I loved how each chapter started with a popular song from the decade as title. Romance was cute and slow built.
The most unique and amazing thing was main characters’ reflection taking their place in real world- the evil doppelgangers of Auden and Lark- which gave the story amazing twist. My only complaint is all things I loved came in second half of the book. Even though I loved Lark and Auden’s life story, first half was slow, and it took time to get into the book.
Overall, Lyrics & Curses was interesting, mysterious, and unique paranormal YA Fantasy with ’80s setting and music. Music lovers are going to love this book.
Read full review on my book blog by following this link- https://booksteacupreviews.com/2020/1...
* 4.5 Stars *
Lyrics & Curses was intriguing first paranormal book in Cursed Hearts duology that revolved around Auden and Lark, their shared love for music and how they try to stop the curse of another dimension. It was about troubled past and childhood, friendship, love, family and music.
Writing was easy to follow and gripping filled with 80’ setting, style and music. It was third person dual perspective narrative from Lark and Auden’s POV that gave more depth to characters. Plot was interesting filled with curses, objects from other dimension, and lot of suspense and tension.
Music had major role like another character in book. I loved how each chapter started with a popular song from the decade as title. Romance was cute and slow built.
The most unique and amazing thing was main characters’ reflection taking their place in real world- the evil doppelgangers of Auden and Lark- which gave the story amazing twist. My only complaint is all things I loved came in second half of the book. Even though I loved Lark and Auden’s life story, first half was slow, and it took time to get into the book.
Overall, Lyrics & Curses was interesting, mysterious, and unique paranormal YA Fantasy with ’80s setting and music. Music lovers are going to love this book.
Read full review on my book blog by following this link- https://booksteacupreviews.com/2020/1...
May 26, 2020
If you're after a truly unusual story, Candace Robinson's got you covered!
Lyrics & Curses is her latest offering, and it doesn't disappoint. Infused with the 80s nostalgia, this is a deeply romantic and quirky romp as its two protagonists, Lark and Auden race against time to solve a mystery and save themselves from a terrible curse. Ouija boards, boomboxes, outrageously brave unitards, creepy mirrors and all your favorite songs can be found here. I promise that after reading this book you'll look over your shoulder whenever you hear the Space Oddity tune!
If you love Stranger Things and all those iconic 80s movies, this is a book for you
*Thank you to the author for providing me with eARC!
Lyrics & Curses is her latest offering, and it doesn't disappoint. Infused with the 80s nostalgia, this is a deeply romantic and quirky romp as its two protagonists, Lark and Auden race against time to solve a mystery and save themselves from a terrible curse. Ouija boards, boomboxes, outrageously brave unitards, creepy mirrors and all your favorite songs can be found here. I promise that after reading this book you'll look over your shoulder whenever you hear the Space Oddity tune!
If you love Stranger Things and all those iconic 80s movies, this is a book for you
*Thank you to the author for providing me with eARC!
July 10, 2020
Thank you so much to Candace Robinson for the pdf download of lyrics and curses the writing in this story was just so good it made me feel like I was in the 80’s I just love their music so much I love most of the songs in this book, it starts off with lark working in the oddities shop and Auden working next store soon he becomes her coworker and strange things start to happen a man all in black with a porky pie hat and something weird in his hand a lady in black playing a flute all this weird stuff seems to be connected including the curse lark and Auden have been given can they figure out how to break the cures or stay forever in this mirrored world while their look alike pretend to be them I love that lark cares around a Walkman and a bag of cassettes that is so cool if I was born in the 80’s that would be me my favorite characters are Lark, Auden, Imani, Paloma and of course Darrin I also like jenny a lot this story was like a puzzle putting all the pieces back together there was also the who, what and the why who started all of this what had happened to make all of this take place in the first place and overall good book one of the best books I have read this year it must have been love but I loved reading this book but it’s over now I would recommend this book to my friends and family LAURA8759.
July 1, 2020
After a series of bizarre occurrences and sightings, Lark and Auden find themselves trapped in a weird dimension and only they hold the secret to undoing the curse.
Candace Robinson has a way of making the main characters so relatable and likable. Their relationship was complicated at first but built up into something very nice. I love everything nostalgic and Lyrics and Curses made me want to be be transported to the 80s! I just wish I had a playlist to match the book!
Candace Robinson has a way of making the main characters so relatable and likable. Their relationship was complicated at first but built up into something very nice. I love everything nostalgic and Lyrics and Curses made me want to be be transported to the 80s! I just wish I had a playlist to match the book!
July 1, 2020
I absolutely adored this book!!! It kept my attention the whole time and I was turning the pages quickly. Everything seemed to work and fit together—the characters, the plot, the pacing. The writing was tight and clean, and flowed where I didn’t even feel like I was reading. The story had an intrigue that kept me going throughout. I loved the paranormal elements with the mystery—it was a perfect combination. I loved the romance, and I honestly cannot WAIT to see what happens next!
July 2, 2020
What I love is how Robinson builds up details and suspense from the beginning and is able to make it pay off in the second half. Everything in Lark's and Auden's lives are hanging in the balance while they try to figure out how to stop the curse. (This is where things really rev up). Not only do we get fun '80s references (I love how music is woven into the story) along the way and some clever banter between them, but we get to witness their character development. Suddenly, not only do they appreciate each other more, but also their not-so-perfect families and circumstances. It's like having a near death experience, but not really (no spoilers here, sorry). I think my favorite part of this read is how much I'm already looking forward to the second installment! We get enough of Leni and Ridley to tantalize us. I want to know all about their origin story and how they came to be where they are in this book. I want to know more about their world and how things work. I want to know how many other teenagers they've messed with before now. I want it all and I want it now! (Shameless Queen reference right there). Fans of YA and supernatural fiction will really enjoy this read!
May 29, 2020
Set in the 80s, LYRICS AND CURSES is a novel about two troubled teens, who get involved in a peculiar situation involving an opaque object, a flute and two creepy strangers. Lark and Auden know each from school, and they also work at a "oddities" store and a vinyl shop respectively, which happen to be next to the other. Yet, Lark and Auden don't talk much in person, until trouble shows up and .. curses them!
This is a cool book with an 80s theme all around and some crazy events and twists!
This is a cool book with an 80s theme all around and some crazy events and twists!
May 13, 2020
Lyrics and Curses is one of my favorite books. It is set in the 80's, which is the best! I love getting to know both of the main characters. You really began to love both of their stories and how they became to be. I didn't want to put the book down. Everyone should read this book.
November 2, 2020
Review coming soon.
September 3, 2020
Definitely a favorite book of mine! I’ve read it at least 4 “full” times, and I am NOT sick of it!!! I could read it four more times!!! I love this book!!!
First of all, the 80s theme was so cool!!! Being an 80s girl myself I was taken back in time. It was written extremely detailed as far as the 80s setting. Second, the lyrics!!!! All 80s, of course, but I especially love how she wove the lyrics throughout the story and Lark & Auden’s relationship. The paranormal mystery aspects built up as the story went. But as it goes along we are given some background into the characters and where they come from, and how that has shaped who they become. As the paranormal mystery builds up we see Lark and Auden growing closer, through lyrics and through solving the mystery, and they come to find exactly how much they mean to each other. I love it, because this story is the beginning and the foundation of the series. Bring on the next book!!
First of all, the 80s theme was so cool!!! Being an 80s girl myself I was taken back in time. It was written extremely detailed as far as the 80s setting. Second, the lyrics!!!! All 80s, of course, but I especially love how she wove the lyrics throughout the story and Lark & Auden’s relationship. The paranormal mystery aspects built up as the story went. But as it goes along we are given some background into the characters and where they come from, and how that has shaped who they become. As the paranormal mystery builds up we see Lark and Auden growing closer, through lyrics and through solving the mystery, and they come to find exactly how much they mean to each other. I love it, because this story is the beginning and the foundation of the series. Bring on the next book!!
November 11, 2020
This book is a vibe!
Lyrics & Curses is a paranormal romance that's set in the 80's and centers around music. Every chapter header has a song title. For best results, I suggest listening to the songs as you read because they set the tone for each chapter, and it is EVERYTHING! Music holds the power to influence our emotions and memories. I was completely transported.
Also, can we wave our lighters in the air for the mental health representation in this story?! It broke my heart to see Auden struggle, but it was done in a way that was so relatable. I want to hug that boy and bake him cookies! Actually, the level of angst from all major parties was perfect. I felt those high school years in my bones. Those insecurities and missteps are universal, and it was refreshing to get the perfect dose. Everything about the characters was real.
Finally, I just have to say that the paranormal aspect was completely intriguing. Building a relationship is hard enough without being trapped in a curse, but it works! The back and forth of the main characters fuels the paranormal, and the mysterious apparitions (no spoilers here!) complicate the mental health issues. It's a perfect storm, and even though I got a bit confused at the end, Candace somehow manages to make me feel invested in that paranormal backstory as well. I'm going to need that story ASAP!
When it comes down to it, I just plain loved everything about this book, and it will definitely be a reread. 5 stars.
Lyrics & Curses is a paranormal romance that's set in the 80's and centers around music. Every chapter header has a song title. For best results, I suggest listening to the songs as you read because they set the tone for each chapter, and it is EVERYTHING! Music holds the power to influence our emotions and memories. I was completely transported.
Also, can we wave our lighters in the air for the mental health representation in this story?! It broke my heart to see Auden struggle, but it was done in a way that was so relatable. I want to hug that boy and bake him cookies! Actually, the level of angst from all major parties was perfect. I felt those high school years in my bones. Those insecurities and missteps are universal, and it was refreshing to get the perfect dose. Everything about the characters was real.
Finally, I just have to say that the paranormal aspect was completely intriguing. Building a relationship is hard enough without being trapped in a curse, but it works! The back and forth of the main characters fuels the paranormal, and the mysterious apparitions (no spoilers here!) complicate the mental health issues. It's a perfect storm, and even though I got a bit confused at the end, Candace somehow manages to make me feel invested in that paranormal backstory as well. I'm going to need that story ASAP!
When it comes down to it, I just plain loved everything about this book, and it will definitely be a reread. 5 stars.
November 11, 2020
I love this book, it's quite possibly my new favourite book by this author, next to Quinsey Wolfes glass vault. Set in the 80's we follow Lark and Auden, who, for the most part, travel in different circles until a mysterious man brings them together in the strangest way. It's full of suspence as they fight for their lives. I'm a sucker for the 80's and the setting is very nostalgic and the soundtrack is awesome. It also has some very endearing side characters. I'm very much looking forward to the second book.
July 5, 2020
"Lyrics and Curses" is a magic ride back to the 1980s, full of music and mystery. Candace Robinson executes the dual POV with skill and expertise, and keeps us in suspense from the first chapter, starting with the arrival of a masked, scary trenchcoat gangster. The chilling Mirror Dimension, home of the Mirror Keeper and its "doppels," will make you wonder if Lark and Auden will ever get the Happily Ever After they deserve.
The supporting cast, especially Lark's mother and the unfortunate Darrin are vividly drawn. This was a fun, exciting read, and the 80s setting made it truly unique. I've decided we need to bring back big hair and scrunchies!
The supporting cast, especially Lark's mother and the unfortunate Darrin are vividly drawn. This was a fun, exciting read, and the 80s setting made it truly unique. I've decided we need to bring back big hair and scrunchies!
October 15, 2020
I got this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Now, I will be honest, I don't care for Stranger Things. I know! I know. I hear it from my partner all the time but it is what it is. That being said, I still loved this book! So I can only imagine how someone who liked Stranger Things would love this even more than I did! Plus, there is some great paranormal romance, which I'm huge sucker for!
Not to mention the music! And Pretty in Pink too! It's a wonderful 80's dream come to life in our modern day! You don't want to miss this fun book! It's a quick read that will pull you out of today's horridness and place you into a world that you won't want to leave! Trust me!
Now, I will be honest, I don't care for Stranger Things. I know! I know. I hear it from my partner all the time but it is what it is. That being said, I still loved this book! So I can only imagine how someone who liked Stranger Things would love this even more than I did! Plus, there is some great paranormal romance, which I'm huge sucker for!
Not to mention the music! And Pretty in Pink too! It's a wonderful 80's dream come to life in our modern day! You don't want to miss this fun book! It's a quick read that will pull you out of today's horridness and place you into a world that you won't want to leave! Trust me!
June 15, 2020
ARC received
Lyrics & Curses is the perfect balance of romance and mystery set in the 80's that will keep you guessing until the end. I fell in love with the characters and the premise and read it all in a single day (I just HAD to know what was going to happen!). If you love the 80's and music and love stories and curses, this book is for you.
Lyrics & Curses is the perfect balance of romance and mystery set in the 80's that will keep you guessing until the end. I fell in love with the characters and the premise and read it all in a single day (I just HAD to know what was going to happen!). If you love the 80's and music and love stories and curses, this book is for you.
July 3, 2020
Lyrics & Curses is the first book in Candace Robinson’s Cursed Hearts and it’s a book that left me desperate to see how everything came together. Although I was desperate to see how it played out, I was somewhat conflicted about this one.
It took me a while to get into this one. There were elements of the supernatural, but early in the book it was more in the background. The focus was more on the relationship between the characters, which I wasn’t really feeling. They were interesting, but I felt like all they existed for a way to shove the eighties down my throat. It was nice at first, but it quickly became too much and I was wanting more from the story than the references.
The last part of the book had me hooked, though. Things happened a bit too quickly for my liking, but I was super curious about the way things would play out. There were many elements introduced, and I’m desperate for the next book to see how these things develop.
All in all, I enjoyed this one, but it’s not my favourite Candace Robinson read. It’s a slow starter, but it certainly leaves you curious.
It took me a while to get into this one. There were elements of the supernatural, but early in the book it was more in the background. The focus was more on the relationship between the characters, which I wasn’t really feeling. They were interesting, but I felt like all they existed for a way to shove the eighties down my throat. It was nice at first, but it quickly became too much and I was wanting more from the story than the references.
The last part of the book had me hooked, though. Things happened a bit too quickly for my liking, but I was super curious about the way things would play out. There were many elements introduced, and I’m desperate for the next book to see how these things develop.
All in all, I enjoyed this one, but it’s not my favourite Candace Robinson read. It’s a slow starter, but it certainly leaves you curious.
March 21, 2021
Per leggere la recensione in blog cliccare qui:
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
https://ilconfinedeilibri.blogspot.co...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews