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Cursed Women #1
Venom and Stone
Once upon a time…
Legends of knights in shining armour. The story of the fair maiden who sacrifices herself to save her family. Myths of objects of power so great that they will grant your every wish and desire.
That’s how all good stories start, right?
Not every story has a happy ending.
Who hears the tale of the cursed? Those who are tasked with guarding these objects of power your heroes are so determined to steal from us?
My name is Maya, and I am one of the cursed, trapped for eternity. Love is what cursed me, and love is what will free me, but I’ve learned the hard way—men only want me for what I guard, and I will kill every last one of them before I let them take it from me.
*
Betrayed by her first love, Maya was cursed and is now stuck living as a gorgon, a creature feared and hated across the land. Found by King Marcus, she's found purpose, working by his side. Until three foreigners arrive and change everything she thought she knew.
Will the curse ever be broken, or will Maya stay a monster forever?
Please note this is an RH fantasy series and is aimed at readers 18+ . This story is book one in a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. This story contains dark themes that might upset some readers.
Legends of knights in shining armour. The story of the fair maiden who sacrifices herself to save her family. Myths of objects of power so great that they will grant your every wish and desire.
That’s how all good stories start, right?
Not every story has a happy ending.
Who hears the tale of the cursed? Those who are tasked with guarding these objects of power your heroes are so determined to steal from us?
My name is Maya, and I am one of the cursed, trapped for eternity. Love is what cursed me, and love is what will free me, but I’ve learned the hard way—men only want me for what I guard, and I will kill every last one of them before I let them take it from me.
*
Betrayed by her first love, Maya was cursed and is now stuck living as a gorgon, a creature feared and hated across the land. Found by King Marcus, she's found purpose, working by his side. Until three foreigners arrive and change everything she thought she knew.
Will the curse ever be broken, or will Maya stay a monster forever?
Please note this is an RH fantasy series and is aimed at readers 18+ . This story is book one in a duet and ends on a cliffhanger. This story contains dark themes that might upset some readers.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2022
100 people are currently reading
396 people want to read
About the author
Erin O'Kane
66 books487 followersErin O'Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
d-n-f
November 27, 2024DNF 53%
There's nothing really wrong with this it's just not retaining my attention and I don't feel any connection to the characters involved. The premise is intriguing I love the idea that Maya is the morally grey character being a Gorgon and self confessed monster but she just doesn't seem that monstrous or even that morally grey. This is reverse harem but I'm not drawn to any of the men introduced and being sole POV Maya's isn't helping me to connect to them.
I'm bored and I think it's time to admit defeat and throw in the towel and accept this one isn't for me. The writing was actually good and this was easy to digest I just also felt disconnected so maybe it's more of a me thing. Anyway I read a huge chunk 53% so I definitely gave this a chance. I'm also not going to leave a rating as I'm really unsure what to rate it and I'm thinking maybe it's more about me and this not being my thing than the actual book in question.
There's nothing really wrong with this it's just not retaining my attention and I don't feel any connection to the characters involved. The premise is intriguing I love the idea that Maya is the morally grey character being a Gorgon and self confessed monster but she just doesn't seem that monstrous or even that morally grey. This is reverse harem but I'm not drawn to any of the men introduced and being sole POV Maya's isn't helping me to connect to them.
I'm bored and I think it's time to admit defeat and throw in the towel and accept this one isn't for me. The writing was actually good and this was easy to digest I just also felt disconnected so maybe it's more of a me thing. Anyway I read a huge chunk 53% so I definitely gave this a chance. I'm also not going to leave a rating as I'm really unsure what to rate it and I'm thinking maybe it's more about me and this not being my thing than the actual book in question.
April 14, 2022
This started out okay, but ultimately didn't work for me.
I was intrigued by the premise of a female MC who was a monster and a cursed gorgan. Anti Heroes, or morally grey characters, are my favourite, and when they're women, all the better. But I didn't particularly like Maya, and felt that there was a lot of her talking about being a bass ass monster, but we didn't really see much of it, apart from right near the end, and even then it was sporadic. Also her subservience to the king, her whole curse, and why she allowed herself to be bound to him, and her wilful ignorance made it hard to respect her much.
The relationships were also your usual RH fare of generic, underdeveloped male characters, with a dose of insta-love and binds, which just isn't me thing. I need actual chemistry and relationship development, and this had none.
By the last 20% I was bored and skimming to just get to the end. Its a shame, as I thought the premise had merit, but this book reminded me of the many pitfalls of RH and why I burnt out of the genre a while ago.
I was intrigued by the premise of a female MC who was a monster and a cursed gorgan. Anti Heroes, or morally grey characters, are my favourite, and when they're women, all the better. But I didn't particularly like Maya, and felt that there was a lot of her talking about being a bass ass monster, but we didn't really see much of it, apart from right near the end, and even then it was sporadic. Also her subservience to the king, her whole curse, and why she allowed herself to be bound to him, and her wilful ignorance made it hard to respect her much.
The relationships were also your usual RH fare of generic, underdeveloped male characters, with a dose of insta-love and binds, which just isn't me thing. I need actual chemistry and relationship development, and this had none.
By the last 20% I was bored and skimming to just get to the end. Its a shame, as I thought the premise had merit, but this book reminded me of the many pitfalls of RH and why I burnt out of the genre a while ago.
July 17, 2022
Within only a few chapters I was sucked in to this very unique story. Before starting I was intrigued knowing the heroine was a gorgon and once getting to know her character she was impossible not to love. Cursed for years, living alone in a cave Maya is taken in by the first male (her now King) to show her kindness and love. Only somewhere along the line Maya has allowed her own love to blind her to the reality of her situation…. Maya is truly a pawn in the Kings game and he cares little for her only what she can do for him. While Maya is dangerous, feisty and can take care of herself, time has left her weak when it comes to King Marcus and the power he holds over her. Feared in the kingdom by everyone, known and the Kings’ blade, Maya still falls victim to domestic violence. Secretly however, Maya is not all she seems and while she blindly loves the King she goes behind his back on her own errands to play vigilante of sorts. Even cursed she does not let her situation bog her down rather she uses her gorgan side to make her stronger and put her human side in check when needed, similar to a a shifter situation. New arrivals from a distant and neutral kingdom bring change and it’s as if the haze blinding Maya shifts slightly and her life begins to change drastically. This was a slower burn RH and I loved the mythological blend with the genre. Maya is an amazing heroine and I’m sure we (and her) haven’t seen the most of what she can do. Separated from the king and his hold over her, possibilities for now are endless and I’m excited to see what’s in store. The mild cliffhanger certainly has me wanting to dive back in, as I plan too, but I’m also hoping Maya is about to get even luckier and add one more to her harem. I imagine the end will be pretty explosive and I can’t wait.
July 18, 2022
I wasn't too sure if i'd enjoy this book based on the blurb / summary alone. It isn't my "typical" trope so to speak. While i absolutely love reverse harem, this one had mention of gorgons and a king. BUT i'm so glad i gave it a shot.
Erin O'Kane really created a series with a totally unique and engaging storyline. I've never read anything quite like this book.
FMC Maya is headstrong, independent and a gorgon. Her life hasn't exactly been easy, and pretty much everyone she's ever met fears her and / or betrays her. This story is about her "situation" with King Marcus, his betrayals and just how deep they go, and the men she meets who help.
I've already started book two!
Erin O'Kane really created a series with a totally unique and engaging storyline. I've never read anything quite like this book.
FMC Maya is headstrong, independent and a gorgon. Her life hasn't exactly been easy, and pretty much everyone she's ever met fears her and / or betrays her. This story is about her "situation" with King Marcus, his betrayals and just how deep they go, and the men she meets who help.
I've already started book two!
May 22, 2022
3 Stars
I guess this book is exactly what it says it is. This book is about betrayal. Our FMC in this book, Maya, is a gorgon. She was once an innocent farm girl who was tricked by the man she loved and cursed to be a monster because of him. Then, many years later, she meets a charming prince who promises her the world. He loves her and she falls madly in love with him. The prince becomes a cruel king who magically binds her to him - she’s now kept on a magical leash and used as a monster to kill people at the kings behest.
Locked in the castle and bound to a king who treats her as a monster, Maya finally meets three men who care for her and protect her. They are her mates! She finally has hope. These three males promise to always be there for her, promise she can always trust them no matter what. Maya let’s herself be vulnerable with these males when she hasn’t allowed herself to be vulnerable with anyone in so so long.
Can you guess what happens next?
I don’t like this. I don’t like the constant betrayals. I don’t like our FMC being treated like dirt by men who claim to love her. I hope she escapes them all and goes back to a man-free existence. I can’t support these relationships. I don’t care what excuses anyone tries to make later. I hate betrayals. I hate them, I despise them, I detest them…and I hate, despise, and detest females who excuse the betrayals. Like in that miserable, awful story The Blood Witch by Ivy Asher. I get mad even thinking about it that series.
So, besides all the misery, pain, and betrayal, this is a good book. Cool story, good plot, awesome world. I wish the FMC was more badass though. She talked a big game, but all I saw was a scared, vulnerable, and defensive female.
low steam
Constant OM drama
MMC’s are kinda flat and 2 dimensional
Poor relationship development - unconvincing insta-bond
I guess this book is exactly what it says it is. This book is about betrayal. Our FMC in this book, Maya, is a gorgon. She was once an innocent farm girl who was tricked by the man she loved and cursed to be a monster because of him. Then, many years later, she meets a charming prince who promises her the world. He loves her and she falls madly in love with him. The prince becomes a cruel king who magically binds her to him - she’s now kept on a magical leash and used as a monster to kill people at the kings behest.
Locked in the castle and bound to a king who treats her as a monster, Maya finally meets three men who care for her and protect her. They are her mates! She finally has hope. These three males promise to always be there for her, promise she can always trust them no matter what. Maya let’s herself be vulnerable with these males when she hasn’t allowed herself to be vulnerable with anyone in so so long.
Can you guess what happens next?
I don’t like this. I don’t like the constant betrayals. I don’t like our FMC being treated like dirt by men who claim to love her. I hope she escapes them all and goes back to a man-free existence. I can’t support these relationships. I don’t care what excuses anyone tries to make later. I hate betrayals. I hate them, I despise them, I detest them…and I hate, despise, and detest females who excuse the betrayals. Like in that miserable, awful story The Blood Witch by Ivy Asher. I get mad even thinking about it that series.
So, besides all the misery, pain, and betrayal, this is a good book. Cool story, good plot, awesome world. I wish the FMC was more badass though. She talked a big game, but all I saw was a scared, vulnerable, and defensive female.
low steam
Constant OM drama
MMC’s are kinda flat and 2 dimensional
Poor relationship development - unconvincing insta-bond
May 30, 2022
DNF at 39%. cliches that I hate the most in rh:
Supposedly badass heroine who say things like, “I can take care of myself” or “I was fine”. No, you was getting an ass whooped and needed those hunks to saved ya
Immature heroine who got called out on things and not admit it.
Established more common sense then the companies you choose? Like howwww many more betrayals we need to go through before you take pause and be like , maybe it’s me?
Supposedly badass heroine who say things like, “I can take care of myself” or “I was fine”. No, you was getting an ass whooped and needed those hunks to saved ya
Immature heroine who got called out on things and not admit it.
Established more common sense then the companies you choose? Like howwww many more betrayals we need to go through before you take pause and be like , maybe it’s me?
April 7, 2022
I went into this blind and I’m so glad I did. What a great story! I was hooked from the beginning. A gorgon fmc? Sign me up! The characters and the worldbuilding are excellent. I felt the story come to life. It’s emotional. The plot entertaining with some twists. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I got lost in the pages.
Maya the fmc has been cursed into being a gorgon. Her heart, however, is too big for her monster body. She’s been living in a bubble of her own making without realizing it, and when three gorgeous strangers show up her life is shaken up. It’s been her and the King, living as his slave, for far too long. When he starts treating her like a monster rather than an equal her eyes start to open to what’s happening around her. Her heart has been closed a long time, but after meeting the guys her heart begins to feel again. You can feel the emotions Maya has coming off the pages.
I love the adventure and mystery surrounding Maya. The three strangers Mason, Theo, and Elias are HOT, and Maya has a hard time keeping her head around them. But when they get sent on a mission together everything begins to change. Maya has to decide if she’s willing to let them into her heart and risk the pain of heartache. The steam is great for the first book in the series. If you’re looking for a paranormal RH, with adventure, emotion, and mystery in an incredible world, this is the book for you. I highly recommend. 🖤
Maya the fmc has been cursed into being a gorgon. Her heart, however, is too big for her monster body. She’s been living in a bubble of her own making without realizing it, and when three gorgeous strangers show up her life is shaken up. It’s been her and the King, living as his slave, for far too long. When he starts treating her like a monster rather than an equal her eyes start to open to what’s happening around her. Her heart has been closed a long time, but after meeting the guys her heart begins to feel again. You can feel the emotions Maya has coming off the pages.
I love the adventure and mystery surrounding Maya. The three strangers Mason, Theo, and Elias are HOT, and Maya has a hard time keeping her head around them. But when they get sent on a mission together everything begins to change. Maya has to decide if she’s willing to let them into her heart and risk the pain of heartache. The steam is great for the first book in the series. If you’re looking for a paranormal RH, with adventure, emotion, and mystery in an incredible world, this is the book for you. I highly recommend. 🖤
April 8, 2022
Wow this book was absolutely incredible. The first book I’ve read by this author and I loved it. I was hooked as soon as I started to read it.
The world building in the story is amazing. I could picture everything that was being described and felt like I was there living it.
You meet Maya the FMC who is cursed to live as a Gorgon. After years as being in this form her human heart is closed off to what’s happening around her due Living as the Kings ‘monster’ When 3 strangers turn up in the kingdom everything starts to change around Maya and she realises her heart is starting to feel again.
There is so much emotion in this book, with the way it’s written you can’t do anything but feel everything that’s happening.
I loved the characters, the story, just everything. The few twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what’s going to happen next. Especially with the bombshell at the end. I can’t wait for the next book.
The spice was 🥵🥵 and I can’t see it just getting spicer in the next book.
The world building in the story is amazing. I could picture everything that was being described and felt like I was there living it.
You meet Maya the FMC who is cursed to live as a Gorgon. After years as being in this form her human heart is closed off to what’s happening around her due Living as the Kings ‘monster’ When 3 strangers turn up in the kingdom everything starts to change around Maya and she realises her heart is starting to feel again.
There is so much emotion in this book, with the way it’s written you can’t do anything but feel everything that’s happening.
I loved the characters, the story, just everything. The few twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what’s going to happen next. Especially with the bombshell at the end. I can’t wait for the next book.
The spice was 🥵🥵 and I can’t see it just getting spicer in the next book.
June 21, 2022
New twist on the Gorgon myth
Erin O’Kane brings something interesting to the table with her take on the myth of the Gorgon (who’s really just misunderstood).
Maya is a complicated character for sure. She has inner walls so high she can barely see the sun but who can blame her after all she’s been through.
The guys are full of secrets but we can already see how much they care or can care for Maya and I hope she’ll find a way to let them (especially Noah).
To be honest, while I liked the story I felt it dragging a little in some part and missing some info in others. But overall I liked it. It was not amazing but it kept me interested and entertained and I’m intrigued by the next part.
Erin O’Kane brings something interesting to the table with her take on the myth of the Gorgon (who’s really just misunderstood).
Maya is a complicated character for sure. She has inner walls so high she can barely see the sun but who can blame her after all she’s been through.
The guys are full of secrets but we can already see how much they care or can care for Maya and I hope she’ll find a way to let them (especially Noah).
To be honest, while I liked the story I felt it dragging a little in some part and missing some info in others. But overall I liked it. It was not amazing but it kept me interested and entertained and I’m intrigued by the next part.
December 5, 2022
Interesting
I like that for once, it's the FMC who is a monster (here a gorgon, which is pretty original). Maya has been seduced by Marcus and been loyal to him. Her change of point of view and how the guys opened her eyes about what's really happening around her and how she's not the monster she believed to be is very interesting and you want more!
I like that for once, it's the FMC who is a monster (here a gorgon, which is pretty original). Maya has been seduced by Marcus and been loyal to him. Her change of point of view and how the guys opened her eyes about what's really happening around her and how she's not the monster she believed to be is very interesting and you want more!
July 3, 2022
Interesting take on Medusa! A monster with a human heart whose figurative blinders are slowly removed. Love and loyalty but also heartbreak and deception are twisted into this story of Maya, the Gorgon.
April 18, 2022
Cliffhanger ending. I will continue the series
December 29, 2022
What a great start to a new series. I really enjoyed this book, although I have enjoyed all of Erin's books, this one I felt like brought something different.
As always the plot was engaging, the characters were interesting and kept my interest. I think the female lead was a perfect blend of sass and heart. Her guys, yeah they are perfect for her.
I enjoy the faster paced books, which this one delivers. We do also get some steamy scenes pretty early on, so just adds to the story.
Honestly if you enjoy spicy, RH, monsters and mystery, this book is for you.
As always the plot was engaging, the characters were interesting and kept my interest. I think the female lead was a perfect blend of sass and heart. Her guys, yeah they are perfect for her.
I enjoy the faster paced books, which this one delivers. We do also get some steamy scenes pretty early on, so just adds to the story.
Honestly if you enjoy spicy, RH, monsters and mystery, this book is for you.
June 10, 2025
Love makes you stupid and in Maya’s case extremely so 🙄
She let that idiot of a king drag her along for years and even willingly gave him the power to control hers. Gorgon? Please, simpering and naive is what she is. She claims to see all these “tells” and “signs” from men but couldn’t tell the type of man the king is? Ridiculous. Then she’s extremely prideful and arrogant with the wrong people which of course leads her to being kidnapped. Girl gets mad/hurt, girl runs off, girl gets kidnapped. My LEAST favorite trope. 1. It’s predictable 2. It’s always completely avoidable.
Something that was unnecessarily repeated basically every time Maya moved quickly was “in a move too fast for humans to follow” or something akin to that. We are very aware she is a gorgon and moves faster than regular humans. There was no need to have that through the entire book
I finished the story but I’m not sure I’ll finish the series.
She let that idiot of a king drag her along for years and even willingly gave him the power to control hers. Gorgon? Please, simpering and naive is what she is. She claims to see all these “tells” and “signs” from men but couldn’t tell the type of man the king is? Ridiculous. Then she’s extremely prideful and arrogant with the wrong people which of course leads her to being kidnapped. Girl gets mad/hurt, girl runs off, girl gets kidnapped. My LEAST favorite trope. 1. It’s predictable 2. It’s always completely avoidable.
Something that was unnecessarily repeated basically every time Maya moved quickly was “in a move too fast for humans to follow” or something akin to that. We are very aware she is a gorgon and moves faster than regular humans. There was no need to have that through the entire book
I finished the story but I’m not sure I’ll finish the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2022
An okay read
I'm not a fan of the writing style, a lot about the heroine is told not shown. She keeps going on about how dangerous she is but does nothing. There is only one fight scene and even that is glossed over. The MMCs keep telling her she's strong and courageous when there is nothing to prove that. I found the heroine a bit annoying with all the pride business when always ends up needing help anyway.
The cliff hanger didn't interest me enough to read book 2
I'm not a fan of the writing style, a lot about the heroine is told not shown. She keeps going on about how dangerous she is but does nothing. There is only one fight scene and even that is glossed over. The MMCs keep telling her she's strong and courageous when there is nothing to prove that. I found the heroine a bit annoying with all the pride business when always ends up needing help anyway.
The cliff hanger didn't interest me enough to read book 2
April 3, 2022
I was hooked! Reading the description about this book and I was instantly excited to read this story but non of that compares to how deep the story actually is. It was fast paced, full of action and I truly enjoyed it.
I really didn’t want this book to end and it’s going to drive me crazy waiting for book 2 to come out now haha.
This book is so much more than I expected it to be.
I love how Mason and Maya’s relationship has grown and how sweet he is to her. Oh boy then Theo and now I’m questioning Elias and Noah, I just can’t put my finger on what Noah is to Maya now?!
Omg why did it have to end like that (I’m crying inside because I desperately need more). I mean I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger but I didn’t expect to have so many questions without getting any answers. Regardless of that fact, I still love this story.
Wow this story was so fantastic, such great world building. I feel sorry for Maya and how her entire world was changed in such a short time. I feel sorry for Maya being put in such an awful position and being asked to choose like that.
If you love a Medusa type retelling, then this is a story everyone should read for sure. And it made it so much better being a RH too!
I really didn’t want this book to end and it’s going to drive me crazy waiting for book 2 to come out now haha.
This book is so much more than I expected it to be.
I love how Mason and Maya’s relationship has grown and how sweet he is to her. Oh boy then Theo and now I’m questioning Elias and Noah, I just can’t put my finger on what Noah is to Maya now?!
Omg why did it have to end like that (I’m crying inside because I desperately need more). I mean I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger but I didn’t expect to have so many questions without getting any answers. Regardless of that fact, I still love this story.
Wow this story was so fantastic, such great world building. I feel sorry for Maya and how her entire world was changed in such a short time. I feel sorry for Maya being put in such an awful position and being asked to choose like that.
If you love a Medusa type retelling, then this is a story everyone should read for sure. And it made it so much better being a RH too!
April 7, 2022
This isn't your typical romance. We have Maya, a gorgon that has a very dark path she's been led along by someone she thinks has loved her all along. Things are not what they seem though, and when new men come into her life things take a very twisted dark path.
This is a Medusa of mythology retelling, and we get to see a darkness within this romance that I think perfectly illustrates her truly dark character. She starts out as the antihero, but little by little you see how she's had to harden her heart to survive the monster that lives within.
When a chance meeting starts a chain reaction of events that leads Maya on her journey, we get to see her slowly start to come out of that hard shell she used to protect herself.
I am really enjoying this story. It's a high fantasy, why choose story, that moves at a great pace! The men that are in her life all have very unique characteristics that lend to her losing her heart, and leading her down a path to Redemption. It ends on a cliffy, but it's not brutal! I highly recommend you pick this book up if you want a darker read, with anti-hero tones, that's going to eventually lead to this strong woman having to trust the love in her heart and the men in her life!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CcB_5Z...
This is a Medusa of mythology retelling, and we get to see a darkness within this romance that I think perfectly illustrates her truly dark character. She starts out as the antihero, but little by little you see how she's had to harden her heart to survive the monster that lives within.
When a chance meeting starts a chain reaction of events that leads Maya on her journey, we get to see her slowly start to come out of that hard shell she used to protect herself.
I am really enjoying this story. It's a high fantasy, why choose story, that moves at a great pace! The men that are in her life all have very unique characteristics that lend to her losing her heart, and leading her down a path to Redemption. It ends on a cliffy, but it's not brutal! I highly recommend you pick this book up if you want a darker read, with anti-hero tones, that's going to eventually lead to this strong woman having to trust the love in her heart and the men in her life!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CcB_5Z...
January 9, 2023
4.5 stars
𝘽𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨
Medusa is a puppet but some hotties want to save her.
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨
I got this in a book box just before Christmas and I’m so glad I did! I’ve never read this author before but I loved her writing - except that Maya seems to do a lot “in a move too fast for human eyes”. But other than that repeated phrase, everything else was great.
The best way I can describe this book is if Broken Bonds, Gild, and From Blood And Ash had a love child…well it would be Venom and Stone.
Maya wears a veil - like Poppy - because of the whole being a gorgon and turning people to stone thing. She thinks she’s in love with her king and that he returns those feelings - like Auren - but really she’s his slave and he only cares about the power she provides him. And she feels a tie to more than one man, and when she fucks them (two so far) they form a bond - like Oleander.
The book ends on a cliffhanger so I’ll be diving straight into the next to see what happens. Plus, I’m curious as to how many guys she’ll end up with. Minimum 3…but a possible 5? We shall see *bowchickawowow*
𝘽𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨
Medusa is a puppet but some hotties want to save her.
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨
I got this in a book box just before Christmas and I’m so glad I did! I’ve never read this author before but I loved her writing - except that Maya seems to do a lot “in a move too fast for human eyes”. But other than that repeated phrase, everything else was great.
The best way I can describe this book is if Broken Bonds, Gild, and From Blood And Ash had a love child…well it would be Venom and Stone.
Maya wears a veil - like Poppy - because of the whole being a gorgon and turning people to stone thing. She thinks she’s in love with her king and that he returns those feelings - like Auren - but really she’s his slave and he only cares about the power she provides him. And she feels a tie to more than one man, and when she fucks them (two so far) they form a bond - like Oleander.
The book ends on a cliffhanger so I’ll be diving straight into the next to see what happens. Plus, I’m curious as to how many guys she’ll end up with. Minimum 3…but a possible 5? We shall see *bowchickawowow*
April 4, 2022
If you love RH and retellings, you are gonna love this!!
Venom and Stone is book #1 in the Cursed Women series. Its a dark reverse harem Medusa retelling.
Maya is our FMC. She is cursed and is part gorgon. She is being used by the King that she has known for many years and thought that he loved her like she loves him, but he has been acting different lately.
When 3 strangers show up in the kingdom, things start changing. Maya sees a different side to the king, and has a real connection with the Mason, Theo and Elias(even though they don't give in right away). And one of her guards admit to being in love with her, and i can't wait to see where that goes!
Holy crap I love this book!!! Erin had me on the edge of my seat, dying to know what was going to happen next!
The world building is INCREDIBLE, the characters are amazing, the plot keeps you pulled in, and the spice is PERFECT!!
I can't wait for the next book! I need more of Maya and her guys!!!
Venom and Stone is book #1 in the Cursed Women series. Its a dark reverse harem Medusa retelling.
Maya is our FMC. She is cursed and is part gorgon. She is being used by the King that she has known for many years and thought that he loved her like she loves him, but he has been acting different lately.
When 3 strangers show up in the kingdom, things start changing. Maya sees a different side to the king, and has a real connection with the Mason, Theo and Elias(even though they don't give in right away). And one of her guards admit to being in love with her, and i can't wait to see where that goes!
Holy crap I love this book!!! Erin had me on the edge of my seat, dying to know what was going to happen next!
The world building is INCREDIBLE, the characters are amazing, the plot keeps you pulled in, and the spice is PERFECT!!
I can't wait for the next book! I need more of Maya and her guys!!!
April 6, 2022
First of all, how stunning is the cover of this book. I know they say, don't judge a book by the cover but this image is beautiful and really drew me in, even before I read the blurb. This book was amazing, and I found the story really original. You don't read much about gorgons, but this book was perfect. Maya and her gorgon side are at odds a few times during the book, even when that side of her is trying to claim her mates, Maya's human side still questions everything she doesn't just accept it as done and dusted.
For me personally, I absolutely adore Noah and Theo and I will quite happily lick them and claim them as my own cause as much as I love all the guys, those two were definitely my favourites throughout.
There was an epic cliffhanger ending that left me wanting more and I can't wait until the next book for Maya comes out because I throughly enjoyed this one from start to finish.
For me personally, I absolutely adore Noah and Theo and I will quite happily lick them and claim them as my own cause as much as I love all the guys, those two were definitely my favourites throughout.
There was an epic cliffhanger ending that left me wanting more and I can't wait until the next book for Maya comes out because I throughly enjoyed this one from start to finish.
April 9, 2022
She's feared by all but loved by one, and that was enough for her.
She gave him her heart and he gave her everything he thought she should have except her freedom....
Oh wowsers what a fantastic start to a new series!
I've never encountered a Gorgon RH read before so this was new to me, but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!
It was new and refreshing, unique and amazingly detailed as all Erin O'Kanes books are.
I loved Maya as she's so much more than the monster that she thinks she is, and the King's Blade. She's a true force to be reckoned with, with hidden depths only those true to her invoke.
Mason, Theo and Elias confirm my love of team whychoose. They are protective and fierce, yet gentle and understanding. Throw Noah into the mix and that's my heart doing a flip floppy dance.
The fear and foes, possibilities and surprises combined with Reverse Harem elements make this one unforgettable read!
I can't wait to find out what happens next!!
She gave him her heart and he gave her everything he thought she should have except her freedom....
Oh wowsers what a fantastic start to a new series!
I've never encountered a Gorgon RH read before so this was new to me, but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!!
It was new and refreshing, unique and amazingly detailed as all Erin O'Kanes books are.
I loved Maya as she's so much more than the monster that she thinks she is, and the King's Blade. She's a true force to be reckoned with, with hidden depths only those true to her invoke.
Mason, Theo and Elias confirm my love of team whychoose. They are protective and fierce, yet gentle and understanding. Throw Noah into the mix and that's my heart doing a flip floppy dance.
The fear and foes, possibilities and surprises combined with Reverse Harem elements make this one unforgettable read!
I can't wait to find out what happens next!!
April 18, 2022
WOW! This story was fantastic! It is filled with outstanding imagery, amazing world building and a unique and intriguing storyline. I was instantly captivated by the characters and got quickly swept away into their story.
Maya is a fascinating woman/gorgon. She’s fierce, witty and strong but she has some innocence and naivety to her that is endearing but could also get her into serious trouble. Her life has become monotonous and boring until three men from another kingdom show up. These men completely throw Maya’s life into the unknown, making her question everything she ever knew.
I absolutely loved this story and the way this amazing author weaved a tale filled with magic, villains, drama, danger and the possibility of other mythical characters coming into the story. It was definitely a page turner and highly entertaining throughout. The ending was a real shocker as I was totally not expecting that and now I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Loved it!
Maya is a fascinating woman/gorgon. She’s fierce, witty and strong but she has some innocence and naivety to her that is endearing but could also get her into serious trouble. Her life has become monotonous and boring until three men from another kingdom show up. These men completely throw Maya’s life into the unknown, making her question everything she ever knew.
I absolutely loved this story and the way this amazing author weaved a tale filled with magic, villains, drama, danger and the possibility of other mythical characters coming into the story. It was definitely a page turner and highly entertaining throughout. The ending was a real shocker as I was totally not expecting that and now I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Loved it!
April 6, 2022
I am in love with this book. Monster books are some of my favorite right now and its refreshing to see the woman being the monster and a gorgon at that. I was expecting something completely different than what I got in this story and I am so beyond happy with that. Maya is our main badass and gorgon. She is magically bound to her king and lover and doesn't question his rule until 3 unlikely men open her eyes and make her see things she was unaware of, making her question everything she thought she knew about her life. This book has some intense moments from beginning to end. It will rip your heart out for Maya and have you begging her to rip that veil covering her eyes right off and start turning people to stone where they stand. I am entranced by this new world and can't wait to see what Erin O'Kane has in store for Maya and her men.
April 10, 2022
This was absolutely jaw droppingly good. I could not put it down and had read it in a few hours hours, and was so sad it was over and now I have to wait for the next book. O'Kane did an unbelievable job writing this story and it flowed so well that while you were reading it, you were completely devoted to every written word. Now in the story, Maya (MFC) showed us how her independent thinking, resilience and adaptability prove to help her. While the men she meet are devishly hot, they each have their own strengths and secrets. But I do say Noah, he has to be my underdog cutie pie favorite, like omg, the things he does for her *swoon*. This story brought so much enjoyment and excitement while keeping my on the edge of my seat. This is going down as a re-read and a must for new readers!!
September 19, 2022
I've loved other series by this author, but I couldn't finish this one. Felt way too rushed and not enough character building. But the worst part is this is a thinly disguised copy of The Plated Prisoner plot, at least of Gild. Instead of the Midas myth and Auren turning things to gold, we have the Medusa myth and Maya turning people to stone. Just like Auren, Maya is the pet of the king (Marcus = Midas) and willingly gives him her power, because he saved her years ago and she knew/loved him before he was king. Marcus has the same personality as Midas and treats Maya the same way. Marcus even has a queen that acts the same as Midas' queen. I could list more similarities, but you get the idea. I'm disappointed, because I enjoyed the Fires of the Fae and War of Deceit series, but I won't read any more of the author's books after this.
July 10, 2022
This is the first book I’ve read from Erin O’Kane and I was hooooooked! I fell in love with Maya from the get go.
I loved the world building here, not only is it about the place it’s set in, but you hear snippets of other places that sound just as intriguing. But Maya, she is our FMC “monster” and my heart just went out to her. Cursed because of love, she becomes a puppet without even realising it. Used for her power and not seen as the woman she actually she is.
That is obviously until 3 new guys turn up for talks with the King and open her eyes to alllll the things. I just love Mason the most. This big brute of a guy with an absolute soft side when it comes to all things Maya. Be still my heart.
I loved the world building here, not only is it about the place it’s set in, but you hear snippets of other places that sound just as intriguing. But Maya, she is our FMC “monster” and my heart just went out to her. Cursed because of love, she becomes a puppet without even realising it. Used for her power and not seen as the woman she actually she is.
That is obviously until 3 new guys turn up for talks with the King and open her eyes to alllll the things. I just love Mason the most. This big brute of a guy with an absolute soft side when it comes to all things Maya. Be still my heart.
April 8, 2022
ARC Review
So I’ve always read paranormal where it is an opposite of the men being the monsters and the woman being ordinary. Venom & Stone is a refresher from that.
Erin writes a very interesting story of how Maya was cursed because of her first love betraying her and now as a result she is a gorgon but the very thing to break the curse is also love. It’s very contradictory but I love it.
We follow Maya, the king’s blade, as she starts to unravel lies that she has been fed. She learns that everything is not as it seems and that the one she thought would always love her has been one of the worst people.
This book gripped me and I can’t wait for book two to come out!
4/5⭐️
3/5🥵
So I’ve always read paranormal where it is an opposite of the men being the monsters and the woman being ordinary. Venom & Stone is a refresher from that.
Erin writes a very interesting story of how Maya was cursed because of her first love betraying her and now as a result she is a gorgon but the very thing to break the curse is also love. It’s very contradictory but I love it.
We follow Maya, the king’s blade, as she starts to unravel lies that she has been fed. She learns that everything is not as it seems and that the one she thought would always love her has been one of the worst people.
This book gripped me and I can’t wait for book two to come out!
4/5⭐️
3/5🥵
April 11, 2022
Venom and Stone, book one in the Cursed Women Series begins the story of Maya, a beautiful woman who is turned into a monster when she is betrayed by her first love. Doomed to spend eternity as a Gorgon, Maya's only hope of breaking her curse is to have someone fall in love with her. But who could ever love a monster? Working by King Marcus' side, she becomes "The Blade", his punisher and protector, and a creature feared and hated across the land. But what happens when Elias, Theo and Mason, three foreign diplomats, arrive and change everything she thought she knew? Will Maya's curse be broken, or will stay a monster forever?
April 6, 2022
@erin.okane.author wrote a freaking
BANGER. Like the blurd does NOT do this book
justice. I liked the blurb dont get me wrong cause I
read this baby because of it. However its also Erin and
a medusa story so SOLD!!!
This was action packed and steamy even though there
wasnt alot of sex it was hot when it did happen and
the lead up was like panty FLOOD!
The story was riveting and IMO ended way too soon! I
CANNOT wait for book 2 I am so excited for it .
Storyline 🫀🫀🫀🫀🫀
Spice 💦 💦💦💦💦
BANGER. Like the blurd does NOT do this book
justice. I liked the blurb dont get me wrong cause I
read this baby because of it. However its also Erin and
a medusa story so SOLD!!!
This was action packed and steamy even though there
wasnt alot of sex it was hot when it did happen and
the lead up was like panty FLOOD!
The story was riveting and IMO ended way too soon! I
CANNOT wait for book 2 I am so excited for it .
Storyline 🫀🫀🫀🫀🫀
Spice 💦 💦💦💦💦
April 7, 2022
Wow, this is such a good Book and I love the concept behind it as well. Maya is a Gorgon and is the Monster everyone fears. She is welded Luke a weapon by the King and the whole kingdom knows what she is. When three monster hunters come from a neighbouring kingdom for trade talks, everything changes for Maya.
I loved that this book told the story of the monster andy I adored how fierce and independent she was. I think this is one of my favourite monster stories I’ve read and I can’t wait for part two!!!
I loved that this book told the story of the monster andy I adored how fierce and independent she was. I think this is one of my favourite monster stories I’ve read and I can’t wait for part two!!!
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