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Kat Drummond #12
Cursed Earth
Evil doesn’t need an excuse…
It just takes. And takes. Consumes.
And destroys…
A new darkness has descended on Hope City, naming itself after an old one. And the disappearance of the magical script that protects my city just makes everything more terrifying. And dangerous.
Which means I can’t give up. Not yet. Not ever.
There’s darkness in this world, and it’s my job to destroy it. Whatever it takes. And this time, there will have to be sacrifices.
My name is Kat Drummond. The Last Light. The Vessel.
A monster hunter.
And I will save my city.
Cursed Earth is the 12th book in the Kat Drummond Series, and epic modern fantasy saga. Fans of the Katverse, urban fantasy, and action-packed high stakes need to read this next instalment in Kat’s story!
It just takes. And takes. Consumes.
And destroys…
A new darkness has descended on Hope City, naming itself after an old one. And the disappearance of the magical script that protects my city just makes everything more terrifying. And dangerous.
Which means I can’t give up. Not yet. Not ever.
There’s darkness in this world, and it’s my job to destroy it. Whatever it takes. And this time, there will have to be sacrifices.
My name is Kat Drummond. The Last Light. The Vessel.
A monster hunter.
And I will save my city.
Cursed Earth is the 12th book in the Kat Drummond Series, and epic modern fantasy saga. Fans of the Katverse, urban fantasy, and action-packed high stakes need to read this next instalment in Kat’s story!
- GenresUrban Fantasy
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2021
62 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Woode-Smith
156 books157 followersNicholas Woode-Smith is a fantasy and science fiction author from Cape Town, South Africa. He has been writing since the age of twelve, writing short stories, novels, and RPG campaigns. In 2013, he published his first book, Fall of Zona Nox. Five years later, he published it again after greatly improving his skills.
Since then, he’s written dozens of books in the urban fantasy and sci-fi genre. Notably, the best-selling urban fantasy series, Kat Drummond.
Nicholas has a degree majoring in economic history and philosophy, and minors in political science, international relations, and English literature from the University of Cape Town. He has been involved in politics, civic activism, and political analysis since 2014.
Since then, he’s written dozens of books in the urban fantasy and sci-fi genre. Notably, the best-selling urban fantasy series, Kat Drummond.
Nicholas has a degree majoring in economic history and philosophy, and minors in political science, international relations, and English literature from the University of Cape Town. He has been involved in politics, civic activism, and political analysis since 2014.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 29, 2021
“The mortals are rotten. They use the life they create to wreak devastation, and they profit from it.”
“I am the judge and the collector. The Lion of the Seraphim. And I have judged them unworthy.”
“You would care, If you lived among them(humans).Saw what they were capable of. What they felt. What they dreamed.”
An amazing masterpiece that brings dark and gritty storytelling to the forefront. A thrilling ride that never seems to stop, and rarely slows down. The surprise factor of not knowing what will happen next, and the suspense building up. But the aspect that has touched most is the need to survive, that drive to make it, regardless of the circumstances, the human survival factor. There is the strong friendship and the survival spirit of the main characters.This story contains all you expect from an Urban Fantasy, monsters, magic, epic battles, and mythical creatures, but even more it‘s a story about the best in people, whether human or otherwise.
I would have gone on reading, so immersed I was into the story. It was heart wrenching, emotional..the final battle for survival..it really moved me to tears. The determination, the inner strength, it was all or nothing. A surreal reality where I found a sense of hope that motivated me to keep going and to keep reading.
Once in a while a phenomenon happens. When it does, all existing icons are tumbled. This Kat Drummond series is such a phenomenon. New standards get set. A new legend gets born.
After 12 reviews, do I need to say yet again I highly recommend this series?
“But , even as the fire dwindles, its light can remain. In those whose warmth it left behind…”
“I am the judge and the collector. The Lion of the Seraphim. And I have judged them unworthy.”
“You would care, If you lived among them(humans).Saw what they were capable of. What they felt. What they dreamed.”
An amazing masterpiece that brings dark and gritty storytelling to the forefront. A thrilling ride that never seems to stop, and rarely slows down. The surprise factor of not knowing what will happen next, and the suspense building up. But the aspect that has touched most is the need to survive, that drive to make it, regardless of the circumstances, the human survival factor. There is the strong friendship and the survival spirit of the main characters.This story contains all you expect from an Urban Fantasy, monsters, magic, epic battles, and mythical creatures, but even more it‘s a story about the best in people, whether human or otherwise.
I would have gone on reading, so immersed I was into the story. It was heart wrenching, emotional..the final battle for survival..it really moved me to tears. The determination, the inner strength, it was all or nothing. A surreal reality where I found a sense of hope that motivated me to keep going and to keep reading.
Once in a while a phenomenon happens. When it does, all existing icons are tumbled. This Kat Drummond series is such a phenomenon. New standards get set. A new legend gets born.
After 12 reviews, do I need to say yet again I highly recommend this series?
“But , even as the fire dwindles, its light can remain. In those whose warmth it left behind…”
April 18, 2021
This book kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through. There were times I had to put it down just so I could breathe again! I would suggest that this is the author's best so far. He just keeps evolving and getting better and better. Kat, his heroine, is growing and we grow with her, experience her triumphs and, in this book, many sadnesses and losses. Don't let that put you off though. Really excellent. One of those books you'll want to try and read in one sitting.
April 24, 2021
It’s pretty shocking frankly, that 12 books into his Kat Drummond series Nicholas Woode-Smith has if anything increased the tempo yet again. Wonderfully imaginative, well written, and just plain fun, Cursed Earth (Book 12) is a great addition to the “Katverse”. Series fans will have a blast with this book. As for newcomers, you can (kinda sorta) read this standalone but, frankly this series is too good to not start with book 1. Highly recommended.
April 27, 2021
Wow another great. Imaginative, suspenseful and gripping all at the same time. Kat is the best, I absolutely love her. Strong and smart. Don’t miss out.
April 18, 2021
OMG this book was so amazing I couldn't put it down! There's a few sadder parts in it than most of the others but this was such a wonderfully written book. I highly recommend the Kat Drummond Series!!!
August 13, 2021
There are just....no words
Gods what a ride, the feels, the wanting to reach throught book and smack the snarkiness out of a characters mouth. There is no much that can be said about this novel without revealing spoilers. I will say it's one hell of a read though. Without being told in the afterword of one of the past books that Mr. Woode-Smith was a gamer I would have known that by reading the battle sequences in this book. *smirk* They read like playing a table top game. Not that it's a bad thing but dm's will recognize the turn based initiative rolls that play off of characters vs NPCs. The combat was a lot of fun reading, made for good mental imagery. Well enough of that. I will wait on reviewing more of the books until I reach the end of the series. So I can talk about it as a whole instead of creating spoiler pockets along the way. Well on to the next book!
Gods what a ride, the feels, the wanting to reach throught book and smack the snarkiness out of a characters mouth. There is no much that can be said about this novel without revealing spoilers. I will say it's one hell of a read though. Without being told in the afterword of one of the past books that Mr. Woode-Smith was a gamer I would have known that by reading the battle sequences in this book. *smirk* They read like playing a table top game. Not that it's a bad thing but dm's will recognize the turn based initiative rolls that play off of characters vs NPCs. The combat was a lot of fun reading, made for good mental imagery. Well enough of that. I will wait on reviewing more of the books until I reach the end of the series. So I can talk about it as a whole instead of creating spoiler pockets along the way. Well on to the next book!
April 27, 2021
Epic!
This is a worthy successor to the whole saga so far, although I would say they no longer qualify as standalones.
There are just too many references and beloved characters to keep track of, and you'll miss some of the poignancy if you don't feel already connected to them...
So, in case you haven't read the previous books: go do so immediately! And if you have, dig in!
As for the story itself, there's lots happening, and multiple starting points for new arcs and standalone/series getting started. The universe keeps expanding and shows no sign of getting exhausted!
Can't wait for the next one!
This is a worthy successor to the whole saga so far, although I would say they no longer qualify as standalones.
There are just too many references and beloved characters to keep track of, and you'll miss some of the poignancy if you don't feel already connected to them...
So, in case you haven't read the previous books: go do so immediately! And if you have, dig in!
As for the story itself, there's lots happening, and multiple starting points for new arcs and standalone/series getting started. The universe keeps expanding and shows no sign of getting exhausted!
Can't wait for the next one!
May 3, 2021
Stop reading this review right now if you haven't read the previous Kat Drummond books and go buy Part Time Monster Hunter.
Kat started out hunting zombies for some spending money in college. She grew more powerful and has faced down powerful necromancers, vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night.
Now an extremely powerful necromancer has been holding Hope City hostage as his undead thralls are killing parts of the populace.
Kat's got her work cut out for her as this is heading to a winner take all showdown.
Nicholas Woode-Smith has created a fun exciting heroine and world to escape reality in
Kat started out hunting zombies for some spending money in college. She grew more powerful and has faced down powerful necromancers, vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night.
Now an extremely powerful necromancer has been holding Hope City hostage as his undead thralls are killing parts of the populace.
Kat's got her work cut out for her as this is heading to a winner take all showdown.
Nicholas Woode-Smith has created a fun exciting heroine and world to escape reality in
May 10, 2021
Nicholas does it again!
This addition to the Katverse is none stop action from cover to cover. This book has necromancer, zombies, vampires, abominations, gangsters, pixies, orcs, angels, gods, ghosts and swords. What more could you possibly want from a book? Oh yeah, there's tons of fighting too! I laughed, I cried and I held my breath. Now I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for the next release date!
This addition to the Katverse is none stop action from cover to cover. This book has necromancer, zombies, vampires, abominations, gangsters, pixies, orcs, angels, gods, ghosts and swords. What more could you possibly want from a book? Oh yeah, there's tons of fighting too! I laughed, I cried and I held my breath. Now I'm on the edge of my seat waiting for the next release date!
April 27, 2021
All I can say about this book is WOW. It is non-stop action from beginning to end. Kat has a new nemesis who is trying to use an old name, but he is much worse. This could be the end for the Crusaders. Who will live and who will die? With the magnitude of this battle, it is obvious that not everyone would survive, but Kat will fight with until her last breath to save the city that she loves.
May 1, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. What Mr. Woode-Smith is doing with the main characters of this series is truly epic. I love the way he is developing them and I love the issues they're having to tackle. This book in particular had them facing down some personal demons while they fought some real monsters.
May 11, 2021
this installment brings in a Nerco Lord that fills in the place of Candace (old Nercolord). This book is one rollercoaster ride of emotions.
May 11, 2021
Nicholas Woode-Smith
Cursed Earth (Kat Drummond Book 12)
ARC REVIEW
BEST BOOK YET!
Holy WOW! This one BLEW me away! Kat has grown so much from book 1 till now.
Cursed Earth (Kat Drummond Book 12)
ARC REVIEW
BEST BOOK YET!
Holy WOW! This one BLEW me away! Kat has grown so much from book 1 till now.
July 19, 2021
Cursed
I really hate necromancers, they're nothing but trouble. So many of Kat's people are dying but folks are coming together to protect what's theirs. I love these books and this one has been one of the more harrowing. It is great and full of action as usual!
I really hate necromancers, they're nothing but trouble. So many of Kat's people are dying but folks are coming together to protect what's theirs. I love these books and this one has been one of the more harrowing. It is great and full of action as usual!
April 22, 2021
Wow, wow and wow again. Best one in the series so far. Trust me you do not want to miss this. Kat goes to another level that’s for sure. If you liked the other ones, you definitely love this. Very highly recommended.
July 12, 2021
This book was full of action and surprises! This was Kat's toughest opponent yet! I had a hard time putting this book down. This was the battle to end all battles so far! (But I am sure there are more battles to come in the next book!) I was on the edge of my seat reading the last quarter of the book! Seriously, if I could give more than 5 starts I would!!!
July 30, 2021
In Cursed Earth, Kat et al... face a new Necro Lord who has quietly built a very impressive army. We also me some new characters, Ariel the Seraphim and Thor, which will link into future books. I'm glad to see Kat not only hunting, but leading the Crusaders and having something of a life. There are some very intense battle scenes, but I really enjoy the more one-on-one of Kat vs evil. Again, Kat has matured and grown and so have those around her for the most part. There are some sad parts in this book that I wish were not needed, but that is the way this story, and life, plays out. There is also a pretty dramatic and surprising end, but I'm not giving spoilers. I've enjoyed every Kat Drummond book and, although I know we're getting closer to the end, am hoping for at least several more!
June 12, 2021
One of the best books in the series 🥰
January 21, 2022
Cursed Earth is the 12th book in the Kat Drummond Series and it is an absolute must read!!! This book is litterally action packed from start to finish.
Just when you think the Crusaders have triumphed the blows just keep on coming. Bloody turn after bloody turn.
The intense twists, turns, and evil have no bounds. But the Last Light of Hope City never gives in never gives up and always holds the line!
Take a walk in the Katverse you won't regret it. The characters will have you rooting for them to succeed. You will celebrate as the enemies fall. Have hope they will forever be crushed under the fury of Kat and the Crusaders. Feel the pain of their losses and the determination to keep the light burning so that all that is good will triumph and a new day will begin in Hope City.
As you can see I absolutely love the series and highly recommend it. Start with book one though you wouldn't want to miss out on the badassery happening in this series.
Just when you think the Crusaders have triumphed the blows just keep on coming. Bloody turn after bloody turn.
The intense twists, turns, and evil have no bounds. But the Last Light of Hope City never gives in never gives up and always holds the line!
Take a walk in the Katverse you won't regret it. The characters will have you rooting for them to succeed. You will celebrate as the enemies fall. Have hope they will forever be crushed under the fury of Kat and the Crusaders. Feel the pain of their losses and the determination to keep the light burning so that all that is good will triumph and a new day will begin in Hope City.
As you can see I absolutely love the series and highly recommend it. Start with book one though you wouldn't want to miss out on the badassery happening in this series.
November 12, 2021
In Cursed Earth, Kat has to deal with a new Necro Lord who unlike the previous one, has created an army of augmented zombies. Similar to when she dealt with the previous Necrolord, Kat is recruited into working with the city's police to hunt down the Necro Lord. When they lose a major battle Kat decides to investigate on her own and ends up being captured by the Necro Lord. Kat survives the encounter only by challenging the Necro Lord to battle who accepts. Unfortunately, he has decided against a one on one fight and instead it will be an all out assault by the Necro Lord and his forces against Kat at the Crusader HQ. Kat is released and now she has to rally her team and allies to fight.
In this latest book, we see Kat has developed new strategies and skills. She has become a true leader. Lots of action and subplots that help lead into the next book.
In this latest book, we see Kat has developed new strategies and skills. She has become a true leader. Lots of action and subplots that help lead into the next book.
September 24, 2021
In this book it’s non stop action and adventure! It seems every kind villain is in this book and then some! An they are all after our heroine! I didn’t think that there was that many fir her to fight but it was the action that grabs you in and definitely leaves you wanting more! This had a great storyline and the characters were great as they get to do their thing! Can’t wait for the next story! I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
February 4, 2022
Kat has had her battles to fight but this one to save her precious city is going to certainly be remembered.
This book contains one of
the best storylines I have read , it is certainly a gripping read.
The author has out done himself this time , the strength of the characters good and evil is stunning.
5 stars isn't enough for a book of this quality.
I as you probably can guess absolutely recommend this.
This book contains one of
the best storylines I have read , it is certainly a gripping read.
The author has out done himself this time , the strength of the characters good and evil is stunning.
5 stars isn't enough for a book of this quality.
I as you probably can guess absolutely recommend this.
July 8, 2021
Read books in order!
Well as usual, Kat has alot on her plate, you never know just which para-normal will rear their ulgy head.
Could be a witch to a vampire or a shifter thrown in for extra "spice". This is another fast pace, who , what when, and where. Friends, enemies, frenimes, and allies-maybe. This is a hard to put down adventure that will having you guess and regussing what next!
Well as usual, Kat has alot on her plate, you never know just which para-normal will rear their ulgy head.
Could be a witch to a vampire or a shifter thrown in for extra "spice". This is another fast pace, who , what when, and where. Friends, enemies, frenimes, and allies-maybe. This is a hard to put down adventure that will having you guess and regussing what next!
Read
October 5, 2021Is Kat able to save the city?
What a story. What an opponent. Has the last light found her match?
Great characters, well written, keeps you on the edge.
The author provided a free copy of the book to me and I decided to review it.
What a story. What an opponent. Has the last light found her match?
Great characters, well written, keeps you on the edge.
The author provided a free copy of the book to me and I decided to review it.
February 8, 2023
Finally. The first book in the series to read like a full book instead of light fluff. I enjoyed this one. The others were a time filler.
December 25, 2023
Big battle
This one’s an important book. The Crusaders are at a turning point and Kat is being pulled in all directions.
This one’s an important book. The Crusaders are at a turning point and Kat is being pulled in all directions.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews