What do you think?
Rate this book
Spellbound Regency #1
Cursed
Isobel Sterling is a governess with many secrets—including an uncanny ability she's been hiding her whole life, until the day arrives when she has to use it to save herself from a madman. But first she has to master it. Fast.
Governess Isobel Sterling feels fortunate to have found a safe haven in the Montgomery household. The children are kind and the lord and lady of the house leave her alone. Just when her life seems as good as it can get, mysterious visitors arrive from abroad.
At first Isobel is flattered by the single-minded attention she receives from their handsome young guest, Matteo Garibaldi. But when girls in the village go missing, Isobel has a terrible suspicion the disappearances are linked to the darkness she can see growing behind Matteo's eyes. Filled with dread, she tries to avoid his company—until she is locked in with him for the night.
A dark and steamy gothic romance!
Read The Complete Series
Book 0 - The Hex, A Spellbound Regency Short - Available Now
Book 1 - Cursed - Available Now
Book 2 - Black Widow - Available Now
Book 3 - Haunted - Pre-Order Coming Soon
202 pages, Paperback
First published June 25, 2015
358 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Leroux
40 books1,031 followersA 7-time Readers' Favorite Medal Winner. USA Today Bestselling Author. Mom to a half-feral princess. WOC. Former scientist. Recovering geek.
Lucy Leroux is the steamy pen name for author L.B. Gilbert. Ten years ago Lucy moved to France for a one-year research contract. Six months later she was living with a handsome Frenchman and is now married with an adorable half-french 5yo who won't go to bed on time.
When her last contract ended Lucy turned to writing. Frustrated by a particularly bad romance novel she decided to write her own. Her family lives in Southern California.
Lucy loves all genres of romance and intends to write as many of them as possible. To date she has published twenty novels and novellas. These includes paranormal, urban fantasy, gothic regency, and contemporary romances with more on the way.
Follow her on twitter @lucythenovelist or http://www.facebook.com/lucythenovelist or visit www.authorlucyleroux.com/newsletter for special offers and free reads.
*For fans of paranormal romance and adventure check out the author's award-winning Elementals series under her maiden name L.B. Gilbert.
Lucy Leroux is the steamy pen name for author L.B. Gilbert. Ten years ago Lucy moved to France for a one-year research contract. Six months later she was living with a handsome Frenchman and is now married with an adorable half-french 5yo who won't go to bed on time.
When her last contract ended Lucy turned to writing. Frustrated by a particularly bad romance novel she decided to write her own. Her family lives in Southern California.
Lucy loves all genres of romance and intends to write as many of them as possible. To date she has published twenty novels and novellas. These includes paranormal, urban fantasy, gothic regency, and contemporary romances with more on the way.
Follow her on twitter @lucythenovelist or http://www.facebook.com/lucythenovelist or visit www.authorlucyleroux.com/newsletter for special offers and free reads.
*For fans of paranormal romance and adventure check out the author's award-winning Elementals series under her maiden name L.B. Gilbert.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
May 1, 2016
Intriguing gothic romance with paranormal elements that was gripping at times. The h was really the H of the story and the H was a beta/in distress type of person. The h saved him.
The worldbuilding and atmosphere was well done and suitably gothic. The H's family got away with murder time and again and I wish they would have paid. I'd love a sequel to know what happens after the HEA!
3.75 stars!
The worldbuilding and atmosphere was well done and suitably gothic. The H's family got away with murder time and again and I wish they would have paid. I'd love a sequel to know what happens after the HEA!
3.75 stars!
October 22, 2016
Why didn't I read this book (that I received a copy of for an honest review) sooner! Whyyyyy! IT. IS. AMAZING!
I am still speechless and overwhelmed because I didn't expect it to be so good but when I found out that Lucy Leroux is a.k.a. L. B. Gilbert, I knew that I'd love it because I loved Fire! I enjoy Lucy Leroux's writing very much, she writes beautifully and captivatingly and I just couldn't put the book down and for the first time in months, I read a book in one sitting!
The story is well-written and well-developed, it's very interesting and I was very excited through all of it, thrilled to see what will happen next. I didn't expect it to be so complicated and I should have because with just two books Lucy Leroux or L. B. Gilbert is becoming one of my favourites. First, she brought me out of my reading slump and now I read her book in one day...the signs are showing, soon I will be reading her books without even reading the blurb.
Cursed is a perfect combination of fantasy, historical romance and erotica- there's an equal amount of everything.
As I said, the story is complicated, it's captivating and everything is done very well. There's nothing I didn't like and I am so happy that I read it that I still cannot write a decent review but I have the feeling that if I wait a little longer I will be no more able to write anything at all. So, let just say that I loved EVERYTHING and move on to the characters.
Isobel is the type of women I enjoy reading about and there is this development that can be seen throughout the book that makes her an even better character than she already was. I pretty much liked her in the beginning but in the end, when she was all comfortable with herself and her family, I liked her all the more. She is strong and possesses powerful gifts that even though she doesn't know how to use, she actually manages to learn in order to help Matteo. She shows courage and braveness and a big heart and I loved her for that!
Matteo's story was complicated because due to his situation you couldn't always know whether he was himself or not. Of course, there was a way to know, but the mystery of it and the danger he was to Isobel made it more thrilling to read about him. I love men with his appearance and I even liked his character though it wasn't exactly my type but he is really sweet so I don't complain. He is nice, with a big heart and he knows what he wants and how to get it which is the most important thing in this case and for me. He is conscientious and honest, he is brave as well, willing to risk everything, even his life, to get rid of his...problem causing his situation and I liked that as well.
I don't know what more to say about them or about the story. I LOVED it and I don't know how many times I will repeat it if I don't stop writing soon. So let just say that I highly recommend it. ^^
I am still speechless and overwhelmed because I didn't expect it to be so good but when I found out that Lucy Leroux is a.k.a. L. B. Gilbert, I knew that I'd love it because I loved Fire! I enjoy Lucy Leroux's writing very much, she writes beautifully and captivatingly and I just couldn't put the book down and for the first time in months, I read a book in one sitting!
The story is well-written and well-developed, it's very interesting and I was very excited through all of it, thrilled to see what will happen next. I didn't expect it to be so complicated and I should have because with just two books Lucy Leroux or L. B. Gilbert is becoming one of my favourites. First, she brought me out of my reading slump and now I read her book in one day...the signs are showing, soon I will be reading her books without even reading the blurb.
Cursed is a perfect combination of fantasy, historical romance and erotica- there's an equal amount of everything.
As I said, the story is complicated, it's captivating and everything is done very well. There's nothing I didn't like and I am so happy that I read it that I still cannot write a decent review but I have the feeling that if I wait a little longer I will be no more able to write anything at all. So, let just say that I loved EVERYTHING and move on to the characters.
Isobel is the type of women I enjoy reading about and there is this development that can be seen throughout the book that makes her an even better character than she already was. I pretty much liked her in the beginning but in the end, when she was all comfortable with herself and her family, I liked her all the more. She is strong and possesses powerful gifts that even though she doesn't know how to use, she actually manages to learn in order to help Matteo. She shows courage and braveness and a big heart and I loved her for that!
Matteo's story was complicated because due to his situation you couldn't always know whether he was himself or not. Of course, there was a way to know, but the mystery of it and the danger he was to Isobel made it more thrilling to read about him. I love men with his appearance and I even liked his character though it wasn't exactly my type but he is really sweet so I don't complain. He is nice, with a big heart and he knows what he wants and how to get it which is the most important thing in this case and for me. He is conscientious and honest, he is brave as well, willing to risk everything, even his life, to get rid of his...problem causing his situation and I liked that as well.
I don't know what more to say about them or about the story. I LOVED it and I don't know how many times I will repeat it if I don't stop writing soon. So let just say that I highly recommend it. ^^
November 14, 2016
3.5 stars!
ARC kindly provided by Xpresso Book Tours via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Matteo and Isobel, a cursed man and a witch!
The setting of the story was really nice and with the appropriate darkness. The plot was also nice and a bit surprising since there was a mystery that needed to be solved. The story is written on third person and it's nicely and smoothly done.
Isobel is fantastic! I really love her courage and will to live! I thought her a bit naive but her heart was pure and beautiful! I really liked her!
Matteo is a mystery for me. I don't know if it was done on purpose but I couldn't connect with him. He was a nice guy and had honest feelings and attraction for Isobel. However, I found his dark side more likable than his real self.
Their interactions were beautiful and intense from the very beginning. My problem was that the interactions of the monster with Isobel were more passionate, more intense than the interactions of real Matteo with Isobel. The difference among the two sides of Matteo in this matter didn't work in his favor and unfortunately didn't work for me either.
The end of the book was nice where everything came to light! I also liked the epilogue and the way of thinking of Matteo and Isobel!
ARC kindly provided by Xpresso Book Tours via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Matteo and Isobel, a cursed man and a witch!
The setting of the story was really nice and with the appropriate darkness. The plot was also nice and a bit surprising since there was a mystery that needed to be solved. The story is written on third person and it's nicely and smoothly done.
Isobel is fantastic! I really love her courage and will to live! I thought her a bit naive but her heart was pure and beautiful! I really liked her!
Matteo is a mystery for me. I don't know if it was done on purpose but I couldn't connect with him. He was a nice guy and had honest feelings and attraction for Isobel. However, I found his dark side more likable than his real self.
Their interactions were beautiful and intense from the very beginning. My problem was that the interactions of the monster with Isobel were more passionate, more intense than the interactions of real Matteo with Isobel. The difference among the two sides of Matteo in this matter didn't work in his favor and unfortunately didn't work for me either.
The end of the book was nice where everything came to light! I also liked the epilogue and the way of thinking of Matteo and Isobel!
May 29, 2016
This was a little bit of a Paranormal book, historical romance and all round good book.
Governess Isobel Sterling was being taught up until she was 12 years old about witch craft and that she is a witch. But when she turned 12 and her family member died that was teaching her it brought her mother to end her training and forget about being a witch or witchcraft because it was so dangerous at the time. Isobel later in life finds herself alone and needing work so she moves and becomes a Governess. There she meets her bosses nephew and they are both drawn to each other. Isobel notices that he has darkness around him and notices since he has come to town a few women have come up missing.
Matteo Garibaldi is quickly attracted to Isobel and tries to get close to her but she keeps hiding. Later we find that his father has taken Isobel to a cabin where Matteo is being held. We find that he is cursed and turns into a 'beast' of some sort. When Matteo finds that Isobel is with him he tries to get his father to take her away as he does not want to kill or hurt her. But he won't do it and not to long after the 'beast' comes out. Isobel ends up having to use the witchcraft that she had tired to forget. The next morning Matteo wakes to find that she is gone and that he doesn't not feel the beast in him as he did. This sets the them on the mission to find her and ask for her help.
I really did like this book and hope that you will too.
Please follow more reviews at the below sites:
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1... http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
http://booklikes.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
Governess Isobel Sterling was being taught up until she was 12 years old about witch craft and that she is a witch. But when she turned 12 and her family member died that was teaching her it brought her mother to end her training and forget about being a witch or witchcraft because it was so dangerous at the time. Isobel later in life finds herself alone and needing work so she moves and becomes a Governess. There she meets her bosses nephew and they are both drawn to each other. Isobel notices that he has darkness around him and notices since he has come to town a few women have come up missing.
Matteo Garibaldi is quickly attracted to Isobel and tries to get close to her but she keeps hiding. Later we find that his father has taken Isobel to a cabin where Matteo is being held. We find that he is cursed and turns into a 'beast' of some sort. When Matteo finds that Isobel is with him he tries to get his father to take her away as he does not want to kill or hurt her. But he won't do it and not to long after the 'beast' comes out. Isobel ends up having to use the witchcraft that she had tired to forget. The next morning Matteo wakes to find that she is gone and that he doesn't not feel the beast in him as he did. This sets the them on the mission to find her and ask for her help.
I really did like this book and hope that you will too.
Please follow more reviews at the below sites:
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1... http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
http://booklikes.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.pinterest.com/u2soapsrus/
September 14, 2017
This story was included in the box set "Legends of The Damned". It screams Regency Gothic. And that is a good thing.
I enjoyed Leroux's writing style and how she introduced the paranormal elements into the story slowly. I hope she writes more Gothics because the paranormal genre needs more.
I enjoyed Leroux's writing style and how she introduced the paranormal elements into the story slowly. I hope she writes more Gothics because the paranormal genre needs more.
September 21, 2018
OMG! So good! I couldn't stop reading it.
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 5 stars
April 25, 2016
This is definitely outside the normal of what I usually read in romance. This was more along the lines of a gothic/horror erotica. Very Beauty & the Beast - with Belle as a witch and the Beast as a demon possessed beta H.
What I liked: It was fast paced, not too fast that you get lost but just enough that things flowed smoothly. I liked Isobel, she was a great heroine. She was smart, resourceful, brave and fearless. I even liked the beta Hero, Matteo (I'm usually more of a alpha caveman type). He was sweet and caring and adorable in his affection towards Isobel. Even the side characters were good. I enjoyed the author's unique interpretation of magic and the history of witches and healers. It was dark and twisty but also intriguing and imaginative.
What brought down the rating was the romance aspect of the story itself, it just felt too rushed. The majority of the story fast forwards days, weeks, and months at a time and large parts of the interaction between Isobel and Matteo is told after the fact. We are told they spend time together, that they talk and share and become comfortable with each other but we don't get to see it. I felt like we get more interaction between Isobel and the other that resides inside Matteo than we did with Matteo and Isobel. IMO I wanted less (or tbh zero) intimate scenes between the possessed Matteo and Isobel. The scenes were hot dont get me wrong but it just felt wrong to me. Especially since Matteo doesn't recall any of it!
I guess I wanted more romance. I kept remembering A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole while reading this. The Lykae in the IAD series also shared their bodies with their wolf, who are possessive, obsessive and dominate over their fated mates, much like the being inside our H. Matteo and this other were similair but since this other was evil it felt like It dominated and overshadowed Matteo too much for my liking and it felt a bit creepy when Isobel could tell that it wasn't Matteo during their intimate encounters. That was a little too borderline cheating/sharing (two of my hell-no triggers,) granted Isobel at first is not aware and than was she is aware I can understand the circumstances that determine her actions. Doesn't mean I have to like it though :(
The story overall was a good one, I wasn't bored or skimming but at the end I was left wishing it could have been just a bit longer. I wanted more time with just Matteo and his witch. Finally distanced from the crazy father-in-law and the demon, I think some additional time spent on just the MCs would have gone a long way to revive some of the romance that got overshadowed.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
What I liked: It was fast paced, not too fast that you get lost but just enough that things flowed smoothly. I liked Isobel, she was a great heroine. She was smart, resourceful, brave and fearless. I even liked the beta Hero, Matteo (I'm usually more of a alpha caveman type). He was sweet and caring and adorable in his affection towards Isobel. Even the side characters were good. I enjoyed the author's unique interpretation of magic and the history of witches and healers. It was dark and twisty but also intriguing and imaginative.
What brought down the rating was the romance aspect of the story itself, it just felt too rushed. The majority of the story fast forwards days, weeks, and months at a time and large parts of the interaction between Isobel and Matteo is told after the fact. We are told they spend time together, that they talk and share and become comfortable with each other but we don't get to see it. I felt like we get more interaction between Isobel and the other that resides inside Matteo than we did with Matteo and Isobel. IMO I wanted less (or tbh zero) intimate scenes between the possessed Matteo and Isobel. The scenes were hot dont get me wrong but it just felt wrong to me. Especially since Matteo doesn't recall any of it!
I guess I wanted more romance. I kept remembering A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole while reading this. The Lykae in the IAD series also shared their bodies with their wolf, who are possessive, obsessive and dominate over their fated mates, much like the being inside our H. Matteo and this other were similair but since this other was evil it felt like It dominated and overshadowed Matteo too much for my liking and it felt a bit creepy when Isobel could tell that it wasn't Matteo during their intimate encounters. That was a little too borderline cheating/sharing (two of my hell-no triggers,) granted Isobel at first is not aware and than was she is aware I can understand the circumstances that determine her actions. Doesn't mean I have to like it though :(
The story overall was a good one, I wasn't bored or skimming but at the end I was left wishing it could have been just a bit longer. I wanted more time with just Matteo and his witch. Finally distanced from the crazy father-in-law and the demon, I think some additional time spent on just the MCs would have gone a long way to revive some of the romance that got overshadowed.
*** ARC provided for an honest review ***
June 30, 2015
Cursed by Lucy Leroux
Isobel was working as a governess when her employer italian relatives arrived. The young one looked sick and she felt something strange about him. There were rumors that some girls were missing at the village and somehow Isobell knew that the newcomers had something to do with that. Then, she saw Mattheo and he didn’t look sick walking around and watching her with interest. There was a magic power in her family females and she sensed that Mattheo’s aura was tainted. Getting ready to bed she was seized and carried to a cabin in the wood where she faced the beast. Will she survive? Who would help a mere governess? I like stories with lot of suspense, intrigue and sex. I’m a fool for paranormal stories and historical romances. This book was a feast for me. Have all the menu. Was well paced, good plot and an interesting development. Isobell was a strong, smart and resourceful heroine who knew how to embrace her destiny and we have an incubus (a very horny one) to add to the mix. Isobel’s struggles with the evil ones almost made me cheer her. Like the author style and enjoyed this story a lot.
Isobel was working as a governess when her employer italian relatives arrived. The young one looked sick and she felt something strange about him. There were rumors that some girls were missing at the village and somehow Isobell knew that the newcomers had something to do with that. Then, she saw Mattheo and he didn’t look sick walking around and watching her with interest. There was a magic power in her family females and she sensed that Mattheo’s aura was tainted. Getting ready to bed she was seized and carried to a cabin in the wood where she faced the beast. Will she survive? Who would help a mere governess? I like stories with lot of suspense, intrigue and sex. I’m a fool for paranormal stories and historical romances. This book was a feast for me. Have all the menu. Was well paced, good plot and an interesting development. Isobell was a strong, smart and resourceful heroine who knew how to embrace her destiny and we have an incubus (a very horny one) to add to the mix. Isobel’s struggles with the evil ones almost made me cheer her. Like the author style and enjoyed this story a lot.
February 23, 2016
Great book! Although I seldom read this kinds of book, I liked Lucy Leroux's A Singular Obsession series, so I gave it a try. And turned out I did enjoy reading it. Recommend to those who liked some magic in books.
h was a governess, and H was her employer's nephew from Italy. When H came to visit, he showed great interest in h, but h could feeling something dark in H. When girls in village began to disappear and H's health got worse, she realized something was really wrong.
I liked the mystery of H, and how h studied her grandma's magic books to solve the situation. The way their relationship built was strange but H did try his best to give h a better future.
However, I hoped H was stronger. Felt like h was the strong one to face all the difficulities while H couldn't help the situation at all. And I needed more in the epilogue.
h was a governess, and H was her employer's nephew from Italy. When H came to visit, he showed great interest in h, but h could feeling something dark in H. When girls in village began to disappear and H's health got worse, she realized something was really wrong.
I liked the mystery of H, and how h studied her grandma's magic books to solve the situation. The way their relationship built was strange but H did try his best to give h a better future.
However, I hoped H was stronger. Felt like h was the strong one to face all the difficulities while H couldn't help the situation at all. And I needed more in the epilogue.
April 17, 2016
Lucy Leroux is becoming one of my favorite authors. This is the third book of hers I've read that I have really enjoyed. Cursed is a historical paranormal romance that has a bit of horror in the story and I'm glad I didn't know much about the storyline before reading it. I liked the mystery of the curse and learning as I read. It's a quick read but didn't feel rushed or lacking and had a great love story between the two main characters. I would highly recommend to readers who like a good paranormal love story.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2019
This was my first Lucy Leroux book and I must say it was indeed very different from what we get these days.
The story was intriguing and fast paced. Matteo is shown to be completely helpless and at the mercy of the demon whereas Isabol is very brave and a dedicated wife.
Their problems never seem to end but she is strong enough to fight it.
The story was intriguing and fast paced. Matteo is shown to be completely helpless and at the mercy of the demon whereas Isabol is very brave and a dedicated wife.
Their problems never seem to end but she is strong enough to fight it.
August 21, 2017
I'm sorry, I just can't with this book. It'll be easier and less rant-y if I just listed what didn't work for me.
1) The historical aspect of this story was completely superficial. It was mostly a veneer and added very little.
2) The language was completely modern.
3) Safety
4) The secret that the h was hiding was told in the most anti-climactic way possible.
5) The h. What can I say? She is a total doormat and can't help but love the H, even though he's the cause of everything bad that happened to her in this story. I'm also not a fan of Stockholm Syndrome plots or stories which feature dubious consent.
6) There is almost no character development.
And I'm just going to stop here. I can't believe I finished this, but I was curious. And now I'm not. The writing was unfortunately not enjoyable and the safety spoiler killed this book for me.
1) The historical aspect of this story was completely superficial. It was mostly a veneer and added very little.
2) The language was completely modern.
3) Safety
4) The secret that the h was hiding was told in the most anti-climactic way possible.
5) The h. What can I say? She is a total doormat and can't help but love the H, even though he's the cause of everything bad that happened to her in this story. I'm also not a fan of Stockholm Syndrome plots or stories which feature dubious consent.
6) There is almost no character development.
And I'm just going to stop here. I can't believe I finished this, but I was curious. And now I'm not. The writing was unfortunately not enjoyable and the safety spoiler killed this book for me.
May 29, 2018
Cursed by Lucy Leroux is part historical romance and part paranormal. Ms. Leroux has provided us with a well-written book furnished with outstanding characters. Isobel grew up learning witchcraft from her grandmother until her aunt was killed. When her father passes away she's forced to take a position as a governess. Matteo was cursed and he and his father traveled from Italy to find a witch to cure him, only to find she was dead when they arrived. Matteo and Isobel rush to find a cure before it's too late. Their story is loaded with drama, sizzle, action and suspense along with a big dose of paranormal. I enjoyed reading Cursed and look forward to reading more from Lucy Leroux in the future. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book that I received from Instafreebie. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book that I received from Instafreebie. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 9, 2017
I liked this gothic regency. The plot moved along well and made sense. The rich aristo falling for the governess tickled my romantic bone. And the ending was bittersweet.
The possession of the H was horrifying and terribly sexy. I teetered back and forth with the h as she is assaulted and then later seduced. I wish there would have been more showing how the h and H loved each other than telling. There are typos but it still makes sense.
Mature content, dubious consent, attempted rape
The possession of the H was horrifying and terribly sexy. I teetered back and forth with the h as she is assaulted and then later seduced. I wish there would have been more showing how the h and H loved each other than telling. There are typos but it still makes sense.
Mature content, dubious consent, attempted rape
October 21, 2019
Cursed by Lucy Leroux is an awesome that I have read and fell in love with. This is book number one in this awesome start to a brand new series and I can not wait to read book number two. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about dark erotica, historical , paranormal romance and this story NOT intended for anyone under 18.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2017
Isobel lost her family and she had to leave her home because she was ostracized for being a witch in training. She has managed to hide her abilities by working as a governess, until a relation of her employer comes and takes an interest in her. He is shrouded by a dark being and she tries to stay away from him. That choice is taken away from her when she is brought as a sacrifice to the demon haunting Matteo. Somehow she has a positive affect on Matteo being able to remain himself, but the darkness is still there. She is trying to figure out a cure but she was never fully trained and Matteo is running out of time.
I very much enjoyed this. I loved the witchcraft/demonic element. I loved the dark gothic feel that was tempered by a true and hard fought romance. Matteo and Isobel are great, strong in their own ways and determined to see things through.
I very much enjoyed this. I loved the witchcraft/demonic element. I loved the dark gothic feel that was tempered by a true and hard fought romance. Matteo and Isobel are great, strong in their own ways and determined to see things through.
March 31, 2019
I'm a sucker for a steamy romance with a governess as the female lead and Cursed by Lucy Leroux doesn't disappoint. Isobel feels lucky to find her job as a governess is a good one - children she likes, easy bosses - what could go wrong?
When visitors arrive Isobel's unique abilities let her see the demon and darkness in the Italian count's son, Mateo. Wow, Mateo is super sexy and the chemistry between them explodes. Mateo is something else though, something beastly, and Isobel can use her powers to save him, which leads into a whole new realm of sexiness and a bit of mystery as they try to stop the beast from taking over Mateo.
Nice to find sexy books with real plots. Will look for more by the author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When visitors arrive Isobel's unique abilities let her see the demon and darkness in the Italian count's son, Mateo. Wow, Mateo is super sexy and the chemistry between them explodes. Mateo is something else though, something beastly, and Isobel can use her powers to save him, which leads into a whole new realm of sexiness and a bit of mystery as they try to stop the beast from taking over Mateo.
Nice to find sexy books with real plots. Will look for more by the author. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2017
I jumped into this book without taking the time to digest the subtitle, which gave me a wild ride through the first few chapters. It starts out as a regular regency romance, but the demons and magic came at me sideways, leaving me wondering what exactly was at play in the primary relationship. I wasn't a fan of the two near rapes. I didn't like the redemption of the antagonistic father or the revenge taken on one of the two servants that play prominently. However, I LOVED the ending. Not so much the thread that is picked up in the last few chapters (I didn't need that, but it is nice) but the change in the tenor or their relationship once it evolves into something less hot and more loving.
May 29, 2020
This period piece with governess Isobel and the tormented Matteo had a little bit of everything. Intrigue, suspense, murder, and suspicion prevailed as Isobel suspected Matteo of crimes but refused to believe that he was guilty.
A bit of paranormal magic thrown in as Isobel’s abilities spiced up the storyline in finding out the true reason behind local murders occurring in their town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A bit of paranormal magic thrown in as Isobel’s abilities spiced up the storyline in finding out the true reason behind local murders occurring in their town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2022
I saw it on bookbub, loved the cover, the book was free, read it in one day, all equals to one happy me.
I like paranormal elements when they done well or at least to the point of my acceptance. Most of the paranormal genre is just not for me. This was just a perfect mix of historical romance, Scottish witches and possessed incubus kind of love story.
It started of pretty dark and cold but as went along story got better and hotter and more romantic.
I’ll be reading more from this author.
I like paranormal elements when they done well or at least to the point of my acceptance. Most of the paranormal genre is just not for me. This was just a perfect mix of historical romance, Scottish witches and possessed incubus kind of love story.
It started of pretty dark and cold but as went along story got better and hotter and more romantic.
I’ll be reading more from this author.
October 4, 2016
Isobel is leading a fairly uneventful life as a governess to two young charges in an isolated corner of Northumberland when Aldo Garibaldi, an Italian Count & his son Matteo come for a visit with her employer Sir Clarence Montgomery.
A Few young ladies from the surrounding area begin to go missing. Isobel is thrown at every corner by the pull that she feels from the young nobleman. She is drawn to him - yet a bit wary of him as well - something isn't what it seems.
This book was a combination of so many genres: a bit of suspense & mystery; a bit of romance; a bit of paranormal or magic. I'm not normally drawn to the "regency" genre - but this story drew me in from the first page to the last.
Isobel - is a young woman who grew up with modest means, her father was a minor nobleman in Scotland. She was taught witchcraft, magic and the healing arts by her grandmother when very young. This tutelage end with the death of her aunt as a result of practicing magic. This event caused her family to be shunned by all in her home. - She has known loss - she has no surviving family and has found work as a governess and hides her magic so no harm will come to her.
Matteo - is young nobleman from Italy. Who is the only son and heir to his father's wealth and holdings. He is generous and kind - almost the opposite of his father. He finds himself drawn to Isobel and yet he knows he cannot pursue her - for there is a very dark and lurking secret that he & his father work very hard to keep hidden.
The characters and the world they lived in were well developed and I found myself routing for them and for the love that grows between them. They definitely had a spark both physically & emotionally. In spite of the circumstances that Isobel found herself in she appeared to keep her head about her most of the time and showed a strong will and determination even when faced with darkest in Matteo. Matteo was completely smitten with Isobel and was both strong and kind with her.
This was the first book I've read from this author and I would definitely read another. I was given a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
A Few young ladies from the surrounding area begin to go missing. Isobel is thrown at every corner by the pull that she feels from the young nobleman. She is drawn to him - yet a bit wary of him as well - something isn't what it seems.
This book was a combination of so many genres: a bit of suspense & mystery; a bit of romance; a bit of paranormal or magic. I'm not normally drawn to the "regency" genre - but this story drew me in from the first page to the last.
Isobel - is a young woman who grew up with modest means, her father was a minor nobleman in Scotland. She was taught witchcraft, magic and the healing arts by her grandmother when very young. This tutelage end with the death of her aunt as a result of practicing magic. This event caused her family to be shunned by all in her home. - She has known loss - she has no surviving family and has found work as a governess and hides her magic so no harm will come to her.
Matteo - is young nobleman from Italy. Who is the only son and heir to his father's wealth and holdings. He is generous and kind - almost the opposite of his father. He finds himself drawn to Isobel and yet he knows he cannot pursue her - for there is a very dark and lurking secret that he & his father work very hard to keep hidden.
The characters and the world they lived in were well developed and I found myself routing for them and for the love that grows between them. They definitely had a spark both physically & emotionally. In spite of the circumstances that Isobel found herself in she appeared to keep her head about her most of the time and showed a strong will and determination even when faced with darkest in Matteo. Matteo was completely smitten with Isobel and was both strong and kind with her.
This was the first book I've read from this author and I would definitely read another. I was given a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
February 22, 2018
**I was gifted a copy of this book.**
Isobel is enjoying her purposefully quiet, boring life as a governess until her employers dine to entertain guests. Much to Isobel's ire, she has caught the eye of the visiting Nobile die Conti di Santa Fiora. There's something not quite right about him, but what? Isobel will soon discover the secret he hides in a most unfortunate way, causing her to reveal secrets of her own. The two become entwined, and Isobel finds herself suddenly living a far from boring life. Settle in for Lucy Leroux’s Cursed, an enchanting read of dark romance, mystery, magic, and a few steamy scenes sprinkled in for good measure.
Isobel is enjoying her purposefully quiet, boring life as a governess until her employers dine to entertain guests. Much to Isobel's ire, she has caught the eye of the visiting Nobile die Conti di Santa Fiora. There's something not quite right about him, but what? Isobel will soon discover the secret he hides in a most unfortunate way, causing her to reveal secrets of her own. The two become entwined, and Isobel finds herself suddenly living a far from boring life. Settle in for Lucy Leroux’s Cursed, an enchanting read of dark romance, mystery, magic, and a few steamy scenes sprinkled in for good measure.
June 29, 2015
★★★★★
This is a regency romance with a big difference. Aldo Garibaldi is an Italian count. He has come to England with his son Matteo and an unwanted passenger. They are hunting for a powerful witch who might be able to rid Matteo of the debilitating illness that is destroying his life.
Isobel is an over qualified governess who lost everything when her father died. Now she must keep her true self hidden, and always be prepared to run.
When some local young women go missing, Isobel thinks she knows who is responsible. Will she have time to run, or will she be next to vanish.?.
This book grabbed me straight away. I read it in one day. I couldn't put it down. It's a monstrously sexy book. ( you will understand that phrase, when you read the book) . It is my first from this author, but now I will be looking for more.
This is a regency romance with a big difference. Aldo Garibaldi is an Italian count. He has come to England with his son Matteo and an unwanted passenger. They are hunting for a powerful witch who might be able to rid Matteo of the debilitating illness that is destroying his life.
Isobel is an over qualified governess who lost everything when her father died. Now she must keep her true self hidden, and always be prepared to run.
When some local young women go missing, Isobel thinks she knows who is responsible. Will she have time to run, or will she be next to vanish.?.
This book grabbed me straight away. I read it in one day. I couldn't put it down. It's a monstrously sexy book. ( you will understand that phrase, when you read the book) . It is my first from this author, but now I will be looking for more.
June 23, 2023
Title: Cursed
Series: Spellbound Regency
# in series: 1
Author: Lucy Leroux
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Historical Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Cursed/Demon Possession, Witches, Marriage of Convenience, Spinster FMC, Traveling, Captor/Captive
Pages: 204
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Synopsis: In the comments
Review:
I read this in a single night when I should have been sleeping. I really loved how sweet the MMC was, but when the demon took over, OMG. Definitely more on the erotic side of romance. FMC has incredibly strong determination and survival instincts. I really loved her character, and them together as a couple when the demon wasn't getting in the way.
.
.
.
.
.
CW/TW: MMC possessed by a demon that make him kill people, FMC must use her body to prevent the demon from killing people in a jealous rage, attempted SA
Series: Spellbound Regency
# in series: 1
Author: Lucy Leroux
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Historical Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Cursed/Demon Possession, Witches, Marriage of Convenience, Spinster FMC, Traveling, Captor/Captive
Pages: 204
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Synopsis: In the comments
Review:
I read this in a single night when I should have been sleeping. I really loved how sweet the MMC was, but when the demon took over, OMG. Definitely more on the erotic side of romance. FMC has incredibly strong determination and survival instincts. I really loved her character, and them together as a couple when the demon wasn't getting in the way.
.
.
.
.
.
CW/TW: MMC possessed by a demon that make him kill people, FMC must use her body to prevent the demon from killing people in a jealous rage, attempted SA
April 24, 2020
She Put A Spell💘 On Him, Because He's Hers💕
Adult Regency Era Romance💕 with Paranormal Elements
Isobel💃💋. She's a young Scottish governess to an English noble family. She was raised a gentlewoman and with knowledge🌱 and training of her paranormal abilities.
An Italian Lord and his gorgeous adult son, Mateo🐺🍆🌋, arrive at the estate, and she immediately sees the darkness and the demon👺 inside the handsome son.
What to do about it is the question, when young women begin to disappear from the local village as soon as the Italians arrive!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also bought the book for $.99 from Amazon.
What an interesting book!
Adult Regency Era Romance💕 with Paranormal Elements
Isobel💃💋. She's a young Scottish governess to an English noble family. She was raised a gentlewoman and with knowledge🌱 and training of her paranormal abilities.
An Italian Lord and his gorgeous adult son, Mateo🐺🍆🌋, arrive at the estate, and she immediately sees the darkness and the demon👺 inside the handsome son.
What to do about it is the question, when young women begin to disappear from the local village as soon as the Italians arrive!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also bought the book for $.99 from Amazon.
What an interesting book!
April 20, 2017
Description: Isabella Sterling - Governess for Montgomery household & a witch
Matteo Garibaldi - Guests of Montgomery family - Cursed by a witch
Gothic Regency Novel
Paranormal Historical/Erotica Romance
Fantasy Novel
A captivating novel with a intriguing plot with a bit of mystery. With compelling characters that are compassionate & draw you in. The world building descriptions & settings are very detailed & vivid. A perfectly written ending with a sweet epilogue. I volunteerly reviewed an advanced reading copy of this book.
Matteo Garibaldi - Guests of Montgomery family - Cursed by a witch
Gothic Regency Novel
Paranormal Historical/Erotica Romance
Fantasy Novel
A captivating novel with a intriguing plot with a bit of mystery. With compelling characters that are compassionate & draw you in. The world building descriptions & settings are very detailed & vivid. A perfectly written ending with a sweet epilogue. I volunteerly reviewed an advanced reading copy of this book.
May 16, 2016
Isobel is a Governess and believes she has found a safe haven working for the Montgomery household, a place where she can hide her secrets. That is until the family receives some guest and girls begin to go missing in the village. Will Isobel be next? This is a fast paced and suspenseful read. I really liked Isobel she is a great lead. I was hooked from beginning to end.
July 19, 2015
I received a free ARC copy of Cursed in exchange for an honest review. I'm not much for historical novels, but this was a good read. I enjoyed the characters and was drawn into the mystery and the path to a solution.
April 12, 2023
This was a great book. I really enjoy gothic romances and this book met and exceeded my expectations. I loved the paranormal elements they kept me intrigued and enthralled. I will definitely be reading the next installment in this series.
April 19, 2024
I found this one mediocre. I got it on a whim, not usually going for the paranormal romances, but the research I did said that people liked this that liked another author I liked, and was looking for something dark and sensual like that. I felt this, for the most part, was way to sweet. There are some dark parts but the actual romance part was almost boring and I didn't feel the dark/evil attraction that the author was trying to portray. Instead if felt more sweet and innocent than anything.
I was a little surprised that our creature didn't turn out to be a vampire. All sign pointed in that direction, so I was pleasantly surprised to find I was wrong. But then the way the man changed, left the plot having to detail how it happened. I don't want to give too much away, but the way it was written, made the plot have a problem to be solved about halfway through the book. And I felt Leroux didn't feel like taking the time to come up with a plausible reason. Instead she took the easy way out - making up something a little farfetched with not a lot of evidence - relying on the fact that the story was paranormal and really, anything goes in that genre. To me it was kind of a cop out. I didn't get into the romance, nor the paranormal aspect of it. I do think her style of writing is engaging and I liked the time period. But that was about it.
Also, this was listed with my other favorite, long-time, popular romance authors, and when I received it, it was flat and bigger than a normal paperback, so I knew it was a self printed title, which immediately made me hesitate. I almost didn't read it at all. Not that you can't find a good self printed author, but I used to edit books and I've read a lot of these, and the one thing that agents and publishing companies do well, is make sure the tone of the story is consistent throughout, which a lot of authors have a hard time doing on their own, and this one was no exception.
In the end, I think Leroux has potential but there were too many elements all over the place and it wasn't consistent in plot. I also didn't really feel invested in these characters as much as I could have. I wanted to feel more like our monster was something like the Phantom of the Opera - dark, menacing, and scary, but with a pull that leaves you fascinated and drawn to him, always wanting more. I felt none of that.
Don't think I'll be reading this author again, just not my cup of tea.
I was a little surprised that our creature didn't turn out to be a vampire. All sign pointed in that direction, so I was pleasantly surprised to find I was wrong. But then the way the man changed, left the plot having to detail how it happened. I don't want to give too much away, but the way it was written, made the plot have a problem to be solved about halfway through the book. And I felt Leroux didn't feel like taking the time to come up with a plausible reason. Instead she took the easy way out - making up something a little farfetched with not a lot of evidence - relying on the fact that the story was paranormal and really, anything goes in that genre. To me it was kind of a cop out. I didn't get into the romance, nor the paranormal aspect of it. I do think her style of writing is engaging and I liked the time period. But that was about it.
Also, this was listed with my other favorite, long-time, popular romance authors, and when I received it, it was flat and bigger than a normal paperback, so I knew it was a self printed title, which immediately made me hesitate. I almost didn't read it at all. Not that you can't find a good self printed author, but I used to edit books and I've read a lot of these, and the one thing that agents and publishing companies do well, is make sure the tone of the story is consistent throughout, which a lot of authors have a hard time doing on their own, and this one was no exception.
In the end, I think Leroux has potential but there were too many elements all over the place and it wasn't consistent in plot. I also didn't really feel invested in these characters as much as I could have. I wanted to feel more like our monster was something like the Phantom of the Opera - dark, menacing, and scary, but with a pull that leaves you fascinated and drawn to him, always wanting more. I felt none of that.
Don't think I'll be reading this author again, just not my cup of tea.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews