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Remnants of the Fallen Kingdom #1
A Cursed Son
Romantic & sexy dreams link a false princess to a dangerous, disgraced fae prince in this fun, steamy enemies-to-lovers romantasy.
In her dreams, he envelops her in love. In real life, he imprisons her in ice.
Assassin, liar, impersonator—dreamer.
As a royal decoy, trained to replace the Krastel princess even in a political marriage, Astra’s life is not her own. With a duty like that, how can she dream about love?
And yet she knows she has a kindred soul. She can feel his presence every night, holding her in his arms, surrounding her with his warmth.
But ice-cold reality crashes in when Astra’s carriage is attacked by the Crystal Court’s disgraced prince. Banished for heinous crimes and armed with powerful relics, he’s a wielder of mighty magic and can even penetrate minds.
It turns out that he is the man in her dreams.
And this is about to get very, very awkward.
A Cursed Son is a fun, sexy, enemies-to-lovers romantic fantasy for fans of fae, elemental magic, arranged marriage, forced proximity, snarky banter, and dream connection.
In her dreams, he envelops her in love. In real life, he imprisons her in ice.
Assassin, liar, impersonator—dreamer.
As a royal decoy, trained to replace the Krastel princess even in a political marriage, Astra’s life is not her own. With a duty like that, how can she dream about love?
And yet she knows she has a kindred soul. She can feel his presence every night, holding her in his arms, surrounding her with his warmth.
But ice-cold reality crashes in when Astra’s carriage is attacked by the Crystal Court’s disgraced prince. Banished for heinous crimes and armed with powerful relics, he’s a wielder of mighty magic and can even penetrate minds.
It turns out that he is the man in her dreams.
And this is about to get very, very awkward.
A Cursed Son is a fun, sexy, enemies-to-lovers romantic fantasy for fans of fae, elemental magic, arranged marriage, forced proximity, snarky banter, and dream connection.
420 pages, Paperback
First published March 6, 2024
624 people are currently reading
44k people want to read
About the author
Day Leitao
27 books1,934 followers🪄 Magic, 💜 heart, 🗡️ action, and 😆 fun!
Follow the Kickstarter for special editions of A Cursed Son and A Traitor Sister at kickstarter.com/projects/dayleitao/a-traitor-sister
You can also follow my socials at dayleitao.carrd.co/
Don't miss any release, giveaway, or news! Sign up for my mailing list at dayleitao.com/sign-up/
Day Leitao believes in the power of stories, the power of characters, and she writes books with heroes (of both genders) finding their own magic and opening their hearts. Of course, there's also the banter and all the shenanigans that happen when personalities collide. 😂
Originally from Brazil 🇧🇷, she lives in Montreal, Canada.
Follow the Kickstarter for special editions of A Cursed Son and A Traitor Sister at kickstarter.com/projects/dayleitao/a-traitor-sister
You can also follow my socials at dayleitao.carrd.co/
Don't miss any release, giveaway, or news! Sign up for my mailing list at dayleitao.com/sign-up/
Day Leitao believes in the power of stories, the power of characters, and she writes books with heroes (of both genders) finding their own magic and opening their hearts. Of course, there's also the banter and all the shenanigans that happen when personalities collide. 😂
Originally from Brazil 🇧🇷, she lives in Montreal, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 673 reviews
February 20, 2024
"A Cursed Son" by Day Leitao is an enthralling journey into a world of magic and intrigue that earns a solid 4.5-star rating from me. From the very first page, the story sucked me in, refusing to let go until the final word. Astra, the protagonist, is a character I adored from the beginning. Her depth and complexity, coupled with her intriguing magical abilities, make her a standout figure in the realm of fantasy.
What truly sets this book apart is its exceptional character development. Watching Astra evolve throughout the story was a delight, and I eagerly anticipate seeing how she continues to grow in future installments of the series. Additionally, the dynamic between Astra and Marlak, the unconventional antagonist-turned-ally, is brilliantly written. Their relationship, fraught with tension and complexity, adds a layer of depth to the narrative that kept me thoroughly engaged.
As a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope, I was thrilled with how it was executed here. The gradual shift from adversaries to allies to something more was expertly crafted, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already captivating plot. And while Marlak may not fit the mold of a typical fantasy villain, his unique appearance and backstory only serve to make him all the more compelling.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the way the story ended on a cliffhanger, leaving me eager to dive into the next installment. While I felt there were moments where more information about the world could have been provided, it only heightened my curiosity and anticipation for what's to come.
"A Cursed Son" is a spellbinding read that promises an enchanting series ahead. With its richly developed characters, gripping plot, and tantalizing hints at a larger world waiting to be explored, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy fiction. I can't wait to continue Astra and Marlak's journey and uncover the secrets that lie ahead.
What truly sets this book apart is its exceptional character development. Watching Astra evolve throughout the story was a delight, and I eagerly anticipate seeing how she continues to grow in future installments of the series. Additionally, the dynamic between Astra and Marlak, the unconventional antagonist-turned-ally, is brilliantly written. Their relationship, fraught with tension and complexity, adds a layer of depth to the narrative that kept me thoroughly engaged.
As a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope, I was thrilled with how it was executed here. The gradual shift from adversaries to allies to something more was expertly crafted, adding an extra layer of excitement to an already captivating plot. And while Marlak may not fit the mold of a typical fantasy villain, his unique appearance and backstory only serve to make him all the more compelling.
One aspect I particularly appreciated was the way the story ended on a cliffhanger, leaving me eager to dive into the next installment. While I felt there were moments where more information about the world could have been provided, it only heightened my curiosity and anticipation for what's to come.
"A Cursed Son" is a spellbinding read that promises an enchanting series ahead. With its richly developed characters, gripping plot, and tantalizing hints at a larger world waiting to be explored, it's a must-read for fans of fantasy fiction. I can't wait to continue Astra and Marlak's journey and uncover the secrets that lie ahead.
April 5, 2024
This new NA romantasy release is SO GOOD and perfect for fans of enemies to lovers, marriage of convenience, fae, royalty and forced proximity ❤️
Astra has been trained since she was an infant to be the Princess’s decoy. Even to be her in a marriage alliance if necessary. I love to read about brave and witty female-leads and Astra makes it easy to relate to her. I LOVE the hidden identity trope and the author pulled it off in a way that kept us on our toes as we don’t know the full extent of how different Astra is… 👀
The worldbuilding is super intriguing and I also enjoyed that we get to slowly discover as the story progresses about the fae and the different courts. The spicy dreams were such a fun twist I kept imagining this in my head and loving it 😂❤️
A Cursed Son is the perfect mix between fun laugh out loud moments (like the cave scene between Astra and the Fae Prince), intense and action packed storyline and a slow burn enemies to lovers romance! 😍 their dynamic was banter-filled and fun and I found myself giggling while reading. Now I must read all books by this author because I am obsessed!!
Astra has been trained since she was an infant to be the Princess’s decoy. Even to be her in a marriage alliance if necessary. I love to read about brave and witty female-leads and Astra makes it easy to relate to her. I LOVE the hidden identity trope and the author pulled it off in a way that kept us on our toes as we don’t know the full extent of how different Astra is… 👀
The worldbuilding is super intriguing and I also enjoyed that we get to slowly discover as the story progresses about the fae and the different courts. The spicy dreams were such a fun twist I kept imagining this in my head and loving it 😂❤️
A Cursed Son is the perfect mix between fun laugh out loud moments (like the cave scene between Astra and the Fae Prince), intense and action packed storyline and a slow burn enemies to lovers romance! 😍 their dynamic was banter-filled and fun and I found myself giggling while reading. Now I must read all books by this author because I am obsessed!!
February 5, 2024
Thank you for this arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
I'm so glad I found this book! Once I started, I couldn't stop reading and finished it in two days. The world-building was very interesting and managed to pull me in without revealing too much, so there's still a lot to uncover in the following book(s?).
I really liked the characters. Marlak wasn't the "standard" romantasy villain but had a unique appearance and backstory. Astra wasn't the "damsel in distress" but an elite guard with an intriguing magical power. The relationship and tension between them was very well-written and their shared dreams added some extra spice and confusion, which was great. The ending made me feel all types of emotions and I liked that it ended with such a cliffhanger, because now I'm even more interested in the series. I can't wait to see how it'll continue and I hope that there'll be more world-building and insights into Astra's power and where she comes from.
Read this book if you like:
– unique world-building
– fae and magical powers
– soulmates
– slow burn and spicy dreams
Also, there's a dark unicorn named Cherry Cake...I mean who wouldn't want that?
I'm so glad I found this book! Once I started, I couldn't stop reading and finished it in two days. The world-building was very interesting and managed to pull me in without revealing too much, so there's still a lot to uncover in the following book(s?).
I really liked the characters. Marlak wasn't the "standard" romantasy villain but had a unique appearance and backstory. Astra wasn't the "damsel in distress" but an elite guard with an intriguing magical power. The relationship and tension between them was very well-written and their shared dreams added some extra spice and confusion, which was great. The ending made me feel all types of emotions and I liked that it ended with such a cliffhanger, because now I'm even more interested in the series. I can't wait to see how it'll continue and I hope that there'll be more world-building and insights into Astra's power and where she comes from.
Read this book if you like:
– unique world-building
– fae and magical powers
– soulmates
– slow burn and spicy dreams
Also, there's a dark unicorn named Cherry Cake...I mean who wouldn't want that?
March 17, 2024
A Cursed Son is one of those books that once you start reading, you can't put it down. Did I mention it is enemies to lovers - my favorite trope. I loved the premise of a dream connection and a false princess. Marlak is my new favourite book boyfriend - the artwork is absolutely stunning! He is so dreamy 🫠 From banter, to magic, to carriage rides and Astra climbing walls, even some Reylo vibes - this book is has it all. I definitely recommend this to fans of fantasy romance and who loves arranged marriage. Be sure to add it to your TBR.
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for a gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for a gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2024
Wow, what a fantastic story! I really enjoy how the main character speaks to the reader, and I feel like she’s personally telling me her story. That ending about nearly ripped my heart in half, and I TRULY appreciate the last chapter as a reprieve for my tattered heart. 5/5, absolutely loved A Cursed Son.
February 7, 2024
6th february:
- spoiler free review -
thank you so much Day Leitao for providing me with an ARC to read and review!
2.7⭐
I'm still feeling unsure about this book. there were some parts I enjoyed but also definitely some things I really didn't enjoy... but let me tell you a bit about the plot first.
➥ plot
the story follows the main character astra, who grows up in a kind of school where she and other people get trained to be a substitute who will pretend to be the princess and the prince of their kingdom to save them in specific situations. additionally, she has to keep her true heritage (which i won't spoil) hidden.
astra isn't really happy with her life since she wants to have a kindred one (kind of like a boyfriend but on a deeper level), who she also dreams about but isn't able to figure out who he is. after an incident where she already met him, she is forced to get married to the king's evil brother, marlak. now, she has to live with him, which leads to secrets being uncovered, discoveries of magic and other kingdoms, friendships being formed and love being found. that's kind of it.
I don't really have an issue with the plot, I liked the overall story line. I do feel like it's more of a character-driven story, since there weren't many plot twists and the main ones were solely ar the end. instead, i learned more about the characters' background story - not suuuper much though - , followed the development of different feelings, and saw them turn into the people they were in the end and followed.
I have to mention that it sometimes felt more like I was told what would happen or what was happening in a way too descriptive style, not really giving me the chance to fully dive into the moment and experience the same feelings as the characters. kinda like "more tell than show".
the big plot twist in the end wasn't extremely surprising since part of it got explained right away, but it still opens the opportunity for another book.
➥ world
the story is set in a fantasy world rather similar to for example the acotar world: there are different courts with different beings, such as fae people, nyxes and humans for example, and different rules. i enjoyed discovering that, however didn't learn that much about the courts since the story mainly played in two to three different ones.
what I liked the most about the fantasy aspect were the different magical powers. It was fun to discover them and their various divisions. sadly, I feel like I again only got "surface information", never really having the chance to get a deeper understanding of how they worked and which existed.
➥ writing aka my biggest issue
as I already said in one of my updates, my biggest issue was the way this book was written. while reading, I made a little list of the things that bothered me along the way:
- repeated words, especially a constant use of "(and) then", "well", "perhaps", "and yet", "the truth is"/"in truth". from beginning to end, these words followed me. sometimes, a word would be repeated numerous times on only one page. this got annoying extremely fast and sadly ruined my complete reading experience.
also, there was an unnecessary amount of words like "ugh" and "wow". luckily, that got better in the end.
additionally, the endearments "wife" and “husband" were extremely (!!!) overused.
- the way this was written also kinda felt more like a stream of thoughts than like an organised text, which just made it feel somewhat inexperienced.
- fitting to what I just talked about is that astra's inner thoughts were constantly full of questions. while this was entertaining in the beginning, it just got annoying the more i read. it felt like an excuse to not answer the questions, maybe wanting to build suspension but then never really answering them. i think that's also the reason why I don't know much about the magic etc, I only read her questions but those just didn't get answered.
- I don't really know how to put this next thing into words because I myself don't totally understand what's happening but sentences like "Why didn't I run with Otavio? I know why, and yet..." or "your power is quite impressive. quite impressive. doesn't impress me, ..." just felt extremely contradicting, which was bothersome. why would you say something only to answer it with the opposite?!
- lastly, some parts of the writing felt lazy, such as "There's just something so comforting about it, so... I don't even know how to explain it". like, just explain it or don't mention it at all, right?!
so, as you can see, there were quite some things that irked me and made it impossible for me to completely dive into the story. I think it got better in the middle - or i just got used to it HAHA...
➥ characters
while Astra was the main character and I experienced everything through her pov, my feelings toward her aren't many or deep. I think I like her, despite sometimes not really enjoying her inner monologue (there was just so much of it). I mostly liked her braveness and will to fight for herself while also being okay with showing some vulnerability.
however, my favourite character was marlak - but I also don't have many thoughts about him. I really enjoyed his sweetness and utter politeness, which he showed from beginning on. he cares a lot about those he loves and tries to always protect them. his sarcasm was funny and i liked discovering his traumatic past - not because i like that he has experienced those things, but because it brings depth into his character. he's also quite hot, honestly, and wears fancy rings hihi.
the side characters were nice, but not very memorable since they don't play a big role at all.
➥ AstraMarlak
since their marriage was a forced one but they still learn to love each other, I got a great enemies to lovers story, which was the book's strongest aspect. I liked the sexual tension between astra and marlak, which was supported by the dreams, and their bantering. to observe them slowly accepting that tension was fun and I especially enjoyed all the small moments where marlak showed his soft spot for astra.
➥ conclusion
okay, now that I've said all that, I think I can say that this was a book with a lot of potential, but sadly didn't meet my expectations. I'd still say that you should give it a try, especially if you don't really mind the negative things I said about the writing style. because, as i just said, the book definitely has potential!! I don't know if I'll read the next book, but since I don't want to leave all my questions unanswered, I probably will.
-------------------
having mixed feelings rn
rtc!
--------------------
got another arc hihi 🤭
hope it'll be good 🤞🏻
- spoiler free review -
thank you so much Day Leitao for providing me with an ARC to read and review!
2.7⭐
I'm still feeling unsure about this book. there were some parts I enjoyed but also definitely some things I really didn't enjoy... but let me tell you a bit about the plot first.
➥ plot
the story follows the main character astra, who grows up in a kind of school where she and other people get trained to be a substitute who will pretend to be the princess and the prince of their kingdom to save them in specific situations. additionally, she has to keep her true heritage (which i won't spoil) hidden.
astra isn't really happy with her life since she wants to have a kindred one (kind of like a boyfriend but on a deeper level), who she also dreams about but isn't able to figure out who he is. after an incident where she already met him, she is forced to get married to the king's evil brother, marlak. now, she has to live with him, which leads to secrets being uncovered, discoveries of magic and other kingdoms, friendships being formed and love being found. that's kind of it.
I don't really have an issue with the plot, I liked the overall story line. I do feel like it's more of a character-driven story, since there weren't many plot twists and the main ones were solely ar the end. instead, i learned more about the characters' background story - not suuuper much though - , followed the development of different feelings, and saw them turn into the people they were in the end and followed.
I have to mention that it sometimes felt more like I was told what would happen or what was happening in a way too descriptive style, not really giving me the chance to fully dive into the moment and experience the same feelings as the characters. kinda like "more tell than show".
the big plot twist in the end wasn't extremely surprising since part of it got explained right away, but it still opens the opportunity for another book.
➥ world
the story is set in a fantasy world rather similar to for example the acotar world: there are different courts with different beings, such as fae people, nyxes and humans for example, and different rules. i enjoyed discovering that, however didn't learn that much about the courts since the story mainly played in two to three different ones.
what I liked the most about the fantasy aspect were the different magical powers. It was fun to discover them and their various divisions. sadly, I feel like I again only got "surface information", never really having the chance to get a deeper understanding of how they worked and which existed.
➥ writing aka my biggest issue
as I already said in one of my updates, my biggest issue was the way this book was written. while reading, I made a little list of the things that bothered me along the way:
- repeated words, especially a constant use of "(and) then", "well", "perhaps", "and yet", "the truth is"/"in truth". from beginning to end, these words followed me. sometimes, a word would be repeated numerous times on only one page. this got annoying extremely fast and sadly ruined my complete reading experience.
also, there was an unnecessary amount of words like "ugh" and "wow". luckily, that got better in the end.
additionally, the endearments "wife" and “husband" were extremely (!!!) overused.
- the way this was written also kinda felt more like a stream of thoughts than like an organised text, which just made it feel somewhat inexperienced.
- fitting to what I just talked about is that astra's inner thoughts were constantly full of questions. while this was entertaining in the beginning, it just got annoying the more i read. it felt like an excuse to not answer the questions, maybe wanting to build suspension but then never really answering them. i think that's also the reason why I don't know much about the magic etc, I only read her questions but those just didn't get answered.
- I don't really know how to put this next thing into words because I myself don't totally understand what's happening but sentences like "Why didn't I run with Otavio? I know why, and yet..." or "your power is quite impressive. quite impressive. doesn't impress me, ..." just felt extremely contradicting, which was bothersome. why would you say something only to answer it with the opposite?!
- lastly, some parts of the writing felt lazy, such as "There's just something so comforting about it, so... I don't even know how to explain it". like, just explain it or don't mention it at all, right?!
so, as you can see, there were quite some things that irked me and made it impossible for me to completely dive into the story. I think it got better in the middle - or i just got used to it HAHA...
➥ characters
while Astra was the main character and I experienced everything through her pov, my feelings toward her aren't many or deep. I think I like her, despite sometimes not really enjoying her inner monologue (there was just so much of it). I mostly liked her braveness and will to fight for herself while also being okay with showing some vulnerability.
however, my favourite character was marlak - but I also don't have many thoughts about him. I really enjoyed his sweetness and utter politeness, which he showed from beginning on. he cares a lot about those he loves and tries to always protect them. his sarcasm was funny and i liked discovering his traumatic past - not because i like that he has experienced those things, but because it brings depth into his character. he's also quite hot, honestly, and wears fancy rings hihi.
the side characters were nice, but not very memorable since they don't play a big role at all.
➥ AstraMarlak
since their marriage was a forced one but they still learn to love each other, I got a great enemies to lovers story, which was the book's strongest aspect. I liked the sexual tension between astra and marlak, which was supported by the dreams, and their bantering. to observe them slowly accepting that tension was fun and I especially enjoyed all the small moments where marlak showed his soft spot for astra.
➥ conclusion
okay, now that I've said all that, I think I can say that this was a book with a lot of potential, but sadly didn't meet my expectations. I'd still say that you should give it a try, especially if you don't really mind the negative things I said about the writing style. because, as i just said, the book definitely has potential!! I don't know if I'll read the next book, but since I don't want to leave all my questions unanswered, I probably will.
-------------------
having mixed feelings rn
rtc!
--------------------
got another arc hihi 🤭
hope it'll be good 🤞🏻
February 24, 2024
This book took me so much longer than I thought, and I’m so glad that I finally finished it.
This book ended in a cliffhanger, and mostly when I read books with a cliffhanger at the end, I always want to know what happens next and have the urge to write down all my thoughts and theories about what could happen in the next book, but sadly, I didn’t have this feeling with this book.☹️
Will I read the second book? Who knows?
Maybe I will.
౨ৎᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏᴇᴅ:
Astra, the woman that you are, I have loved her since page one.🥹🤞🏼
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯."
I want this quote printed on a t-shirt.
Thank you very much.🤗
What I also really enjoyed is that unicorns existed in this book. My 10-year-old would sure eat this up. So please, authors, add a little cute unicorn to your fantasy books. It doesn’t hurt anyone, right?🥹
𝚂𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎: 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝙼𝚈 𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚘𝚗. 𝙿𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚈𝙾𝚄𝚁 𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚝.🫂
!!𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 & 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲 & 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗰 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄!!
જ⁀➴ My arc got approved yayyy🥹🤞🏼
This book ended in a cliffhanger, and mostly when I read books with a cliffhanger at the end, I always want to know what happens next and have the urge to write down all my thoughts and theories about what could happen in the next book, but sadly, I didn’t have this feeling with this book.☹️
Will I read the second book? Who knows?
Maybe I will.
౨ৎᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏᴇᴅ:
Astra, the woman that you are, I have loved her since page one.🥹🤞🏼
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦, 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯."
I want this quote printed on a t-shirt.
Thank you very much.🤗
What I also really enjoyed is that unicorns existed in this book. My 10-year-old would sure eat this up. So please, authors, add a little cute unicorn to your fantasy books. It doesn’t hurt anyone, right?🥹
𝚂𝚒𝚍𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚎: 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝙼𝚈 𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚘𝚗. 𝙿𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚎 𝚈𝙾𝚄𝚁 𝚘𝚙𝚒𝚗𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚛 𝚗𝚘𝚝.🫂
!!𝗜 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 & 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲 & 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗼 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗰 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄!!
જ⁀➴ My arc got approved yayyy🥹🤞🏼
September 14, 2024
2.5 stars
This reads like a YA book that inappropriately has way too many spicy scenes in it. In the very first couple of pages, the FMC becomes an accidental voyeur and it made me so uncomfortable reading it that I almost DNF’d right there. I wish I did because all of the characters are either too immature or cookie cutter for me to bother continuing this series.
This reads like a YA book that inappropriately has way too many spicy scenes in it. In the very first couple of pages, the FMC becomes an accidental voyeur and it made me so uncomfortable reading it that I almost DNF’d right there. I wish I did because all of the characters are either too immature or cookie cutter for me to bother continuing this series.
January 18, 2025
Never before in my life have I felt the need to slow down while reading, simply because a book was THAT good. I need book two. NOW.
Read
November 19, 2024This is my first adult fantasy and I'm super excited about it, and can't wait for you all to read it.
There was a Kickstarter for a special edition and you can still get special editions at Merrick Books
There will be a Kickstarter for book 2!
There was a Kickstarter for a special edition and you can still get special editions at Merrick Books
There will be a Kickstarter for book 2!
Shelved as 'd-n-f'
February 25, 2024post-read review:
arc copy provided in exchange for an honest review. this in no way changes my rating or review.
dnf @ 30%
i just could not get into this reading style :((. i've read other books by the author and i don't remember having this trouble... so either the style has changed or my taste has changed. either way, i found myself confused, bored, and very non-addicted to this one, which was disappointing. might try again one day, but not sure. either way, i've put it down for now.
~~~
pre-read review: arc acquired woo!! this sounds too addictive, and the author marketed it as both fun & steamy, which is always a win for me. we need more fun romantasies!
arc copy provided in exchange for an honest review. this in no way changes my rating or review.
dnf @ 30%
i just could not get into this reading style :((. i've read other books by the author and i don't remember having this trouble... so either the style has changed or my taste has changed. either way, i found myself confused, bored, and very non-addicted to this one, which was disappointing. might try again one day, but not sure. either way, i've put it down for now.
~~~
pre-read review: arc acquired woo!! this sounds too addictive, and the author marketed it as both fun & steamy, which is always a win for me. we need more fun romantasies!
March 12, 2024
1.5⭐️ there were so many issues with this book honestly.. the writing was just not good, using ‘ugh’ or ‘thingy’ and ‘or whatever’ throughout made the story feel lazy and juvenile.
I didn’t feel a connection to any of the characters- they were both very much one dimensional. The premise of this had sounded so interesting but the execution of it just felt.. silly? I ended up skimming the last 30 pgs or so because I was just done at that point.
.5 because some scenes I felt had potential but this desperately needed another round of editing.
I don’t think this author is for me💫
I didn’t feel a connection to any of the characters- they were both very much one dimensional. The premise of this had sounded so interesting but the execution of it just felt.. silly? I ended up skimming the last 30 pgs or so because I was just done at that point.
.5 because some scenes I felt had potential but this desperately needed another round of editing.
I don’t think this author is for me💫
February 21, 2024
The premise of this was so good, it was giving Ruhn Danaan fanfic vibes, but the writing was terrible. I could barely get through it. I wanted to love this! I wish an editor or beta had taken a look at this. There’s so much promise here! It just needs to be refined!! I was also very frustrated with all of the back and forth miscommunication dialogue. It was reminiscent of iron flame’s “I can’t trust you!” Recurring fights. The ending where he fake betrays her was also very tired and mid.
February 6, 2024
Just got done reading the ARC for this book and just wow! There are a lot of fae romantasy books out there and this one blew me away. I was hooked from chapter one the characters just draw you in the strong FMC and grumpy MMC have an amazing chemistry together. This book is a slow burn, forced proximity enemies to lovers romance with plenty of funny banter and spice.
A Cursed Son has a unique story that keeps you interested and wanting to know what happens next Leitao does an great job creating an emersive world. I will anxiously be awaiting the next book in the series!!
A Cursed Son has a unique story that keeps you interested and wanting to know what happens next Leitao does an great job creating an emersive world. I will anxiously be awaiting the next book in the series!!
January 22, 2024
Thank you to Day Leitao for the opportunity to beta read this book!
I loved everything about this book! Such a beautiful enemies to lovers slow burn. The way the narration moves from glimpses of the future, back to the present, via dreams the FMC and MMC are having helps so much with the tension!
I cannot want to read and review the finished copy.
I loved everything about this book! Such a beautiful enemies to lovers slow burn. The way the narration moves from glimpses of the future, back to the present, via dreams the FMC and MMC are having helps so much with the tension!
I cannot want to read and review the finished copy.
February 8, 2024
Dnf @ 14% I couldn’t force myself to read after “Ugh. I don’t want Marlak’s man thingy.” I really tried to get into this book, but I could not stop cringing.
February 7, 2024
5 stars read, with the stars going to: the banter, the DREAMS, a dark unicorn named Cherry Cake, a purple haired princess, and for all the giggles this book gave me, especially from the Nameless!!
This book has literally everything I'm looking for in a romantasy book, especially a slow burn enemies to lovers romantasy at that!! Astra is living her best life (maybe) as a substitute for the princess of Krastel (living at the perfectly named Krastel Castle), hiding her identity, and hoping for a chance to get out of the walls of the palace. She gets an opportunity to go out on a mission disguised as the princess, but a wild turn of events lands her captured by the disgraced, alleged family murdering former maybe-human-maybe-fae prince Marlak. It's best if you discover how through reading this book, but let's just say that the two recognize each other but won't tell each other this... The following week, once she's returned to the castle, Marlak arrives, trades some trinkets to the king, and makes her his bride (how romantic) and takes her to a hidden island hideout.
I absolutely ATE THIS UP. I loved the dynamic between Astra, so worried about her truth coming out and wnating to hate Marlak so so sooo badly, and Marlak, king of the wife guys just trying to hide his affections under deep, deep cut insults. The magic in this world is really cool and I'm excited to see it develop in future books- and also to learn more about this very interesting and dynamic world full of warring human and fae and a secret third thing factions.
I need The Traitor Sister...as soon as possible
Thank you so much to Day Leitao and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review. A Cursed Son comes out on March 6, 2024!
This book has literally everything I'm looking for in a romantasy book, especially a slow burn enemies to lovers romantasy at that!! Astra is living her best life (maybe) as a substitute for the princess of Krastel (living at the perfectly named Krastel Castle), hiding her identity, and hoping for a chance to get out of the walls of the palace. She gets an opportunity to go out on a mission disguised as the princess, but a wild turn of events lands her captured by the disgraced, alleged family murdering former maybe-human-maybe-fae prince Marlak. It's best if you discover how through reading this book, but let's just say that the two recognize each other but won't tell each other this... The following week, once she's returned to the castle, Marlak arrives, trades some trinkets to the king, and makes her his bride (how romantic) and takes her to a hidden island hideout.
I absolutely ATE THIS UP. I loved the dynamic between Astra, so worried about her truth coming out and wnating to hate Marlak so so sooo badly, and Marlak, king of the wife guys just trying to hide his affections under deep, deep cut insults. The magic in this world is really cool and I'm excited to see it develop in future books- and also to learn more about this very interesting and dynamic world full of warring human and fae and a secret third thing factions.
I need The Traitor Sister...as soon as possible
Thank you so much to Day Leitao and NetGalley for a chance to read this in exchange for an honest review. A Cursed Son comes out on March 6, 2024!
January 24, 2025
I absolutely loved this magical world. It was captivating and honestly hard to put down. The fantasy aspects of this story were easy to follow. It was nice to be able to read to a fantasy and not have to stop every five seconds in order to figure how one thing connected to another.
I also loved the two main characters, Astra and Marlak. Forced into a marriage, Astra handled being stuck with Marlak (the disgraced prince) perfectly. She didn’t whine or beg to be let go. She knew what she had to do to serve her kingdom and she did it. It was absolutely refreshing not having to listen to an FMC whining about being taken the entire book.
The relationship between Astra and Marlak was nicely developed. They went from enemies, to friends, to lovers. It was the perfect slow burn. While I typically like graphic smut, I didn’t at all mind the flowery way the smut was written. I believe it perfectly fit how the characters were feeling at the moment and just the overall vibe of the book.
Just a heads up…the ending will hurt for a good few minutes but I promise it’s worth it!
Thank you so much Day Leitao for the ARC!
I also loved the two main characters, Astra and Marlak. Forced into a marriage, Astra handled being stuck with Marlak (the disgraced prince) perfectly. She didn’t whine or beg to be let go. She knew what she had to do to serve her kingdom and she did it. It was absolutely refreshing not having to listen to an FMC whining about being taken the entire book.
The relationship between Astra and Marlak was nicely developed. They went from enemies, to friends, to lovers. It was the perfect slow burn. While I typically like graphic smut, I didn’t at all mind the flowery way the smut was written. I believe it perfectly fit how the characters were feeling at the moment and just the overall vibe of the book.
Just a heads up…the ending will hurt for a good few minutes but I promise it’s worth it!
Thank you so much Day Leitao for the ARC!
February 6, 2024
An emotionally gripping, adventure-filled, magical-induced enemies to lovers romance centered around political turmoil, action, secrecy, betrayal, banter, devotion, and love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the overall plot. So much so that I'm anxiously awaiting book 2. Strong, well-developed characters who face one struggle after another. Detailed world building to draw the reader into the book. Intriguing storyline to maintain interest. Astra finds herself a pawn in a political game where she longs for answers, freedom, and love. Marlak plays his own dangerous chess game to strive toward his ultimate goal of clearing his name and claiming his throne. In dreams they find their true selves, but reality proves more difficult to navigate.
"Trust your heart."
"I think old love is better, love that survives the passage of time, survives tribulations. It's the kind of love I want."
"Love makes you strong, not weak."
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the overall plot. So much so that I'm anxiously awaiting book 2. Strong, well-developed characters who face one struggle after another. Detailed world building to draw the reader into the book. Intriguing storyline to maintain interest. Astra finds herself a pawn in a political game where she longs for answers, freedom, and love. Marlak plays his own dangerous chess game to strive toward his ultimate goal of clearing his name and claiming his throne. In dreams they find their true selves, but reality proves more difficult to navigate.
"Trust your heart."
"I think old love is better, love that survives the passage of time, survives tribulations. It's the kind of love I want."
"Love makes you strong, not weak."
February 5, 2024
Stop reading this review and go get this book!
Oh my goodness- this book sucked me in right from the start. Elemental magic, a BA FMC and, Grumpy but sweet MMC. Sign me up! But seriously I know those things sound like any other romantasy, but this book was so different from anything I’ve read. I loved loved loved the sloooooow burn and the spicy dreams vs the hard reality.
The main character banter (heck even internal banter) was so well done and literally made me laugh out loud at times.
I need the second book now ☹️🥰🙂
Oh my goodness- this book sucked me in right from the start. Elemental magic, a BA FMC and, Grumpy but sweet MMC. Sign me up! But seriously I know those things sound like any other romantasy, but this book was so different from anything I’ve read. I loved loved loved the sloooooow burn and the spicy dreams vs the hard reality.
The main character banter (heck even internal banter) was so well done and literally made me laugh out loud at times.
I need the second book now ☹️🥰🙂
February 5, 2024
A very unique story that will keep you guessing all the way through the book.
Astra is an orphan that is raised by the enemy. She thought she had a good life. That is until she met Marlak.
She begins to unravel her past and realize that the things she thought were the truth are a long way from the truth.
Will Astra be able to find her way to true happiness? Will she and Marlak find a future together? Come read this fast paced story to find the answers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Astra is an orphan that is raised by the enemy. She thought she had a good life. That is until she met Marlak.
She begins to unravel her past and realize that the things she thought were the truth are a long way from the truth.
Will Astra be able to find her way to true happiness? Will she and Marlak find a future together? Come read this fast paced story to find the answers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2024
Ooh this book is glorious! ✨ It took me a minute to get hooked but then I didn’t want to do anything else with my weekend but live in this book. I read every chance I got. Clever turns, a multi-layered sarcastic protagonist, fae secrets, cherry cake, magical dreams and duplicitous layers. Well done Day Leitao — Looking forward to more!
February 5, 2024
I got my ARC from NetGalley and I just want to say thank you Day Leitao for give me a chance to read the book early.
This book was amazing.. had great plot great spice and we love morally grey men who fall first and harder for the FmLi this was all around an amazing book and I can’t wait to buy it when it comes out!!!
This book was amazing.. had great plot great spice and we love morally grey men who fall first and harder for the FmLi this was all around an amazing book and I can’t wait to buy it when it comes out!!!
February 8, 2024
Posting review on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Run date February 6, 2024 for posting review.
I ate this book up! I enjoyed every character and their individual personalities. It was a fun read with parts that made me chuckle. I was probably smiling more than half of the book! I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you Day Leitao and NetGalley, for allowing me to read the ARC!
Run date February 6, 2024 for posting review.
I ate this book up! I enjoyed every character and their individual personalities. It was a fun read with parts that made me chuckle. I was probably smiling more than half of the book! I can't wait for book 2!
Thank you Day Leitao and NetGalley, for allowing me to read the ARC!
February 19, 2025
A Cursed Son by Day Leitao
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this audiobook (ALC reader here!) and the first book in this triology. The world builds was easy which is SUCH a relief compared to so many fantasy books! Astra’s character growth in this book was fantastic! The narrator did an excellent job starting out sounding rather naive, similar to Astra, and her voice gained confidence as Astra’s character grew.
I also really enjoyed the steamy shared dreams. I read another book a few years ago with this same trope and I have been searching for it ever since! These dreams added to the tension and made me swoon!!!
Malark’s character was super interested and started out so mysterious. I really enjoyed this enemies to friends to lovers dynamic between Malark and Astra and the mutual pining.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Day Leitao for the ALC!!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this audiobook (ALC reader here!) and the first book in this triology. The world builds was easy which is SUCH a relief compared to so many fantasy books! Astra’s character growth in this book was fantastic! The narrator did an excellent job starting out sounding rather naive, similar to Astra, and her voice gained confidence as Astra’s character grew.
I also really enjoyed the steamy shared dreams. I read another book a few years ago with this same trope and I have been searching for it ever since! These dreams added to the tension and made me swoon!!!
Malark’s character was super interested and started out so mysterious. I really enjoyed this enemies to friends to lovers dynamic between Malark and Astra and the mutual pining.
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and Day Leitao for the ALC!!
February 9, 2024
thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was an amazing read! I am very much a reader that LOVES books with vibes and this just hit the spot for me
The beginning chapters of the book felt a tad bit messy, where I was fumbling in the dark trying to make sense of the setting/premise of the story, but the book picks up better afterwards and had me immediately immersed. I did find that while I liked Astra, she did have a bit too much of monologue and it made me feel like we were both spinning in circles. Astra had absolutely no filter and I love it, her intrusive thoughts and speech reminds me of Serpent and Dove, but better. My absolute favourite character in the book, which is no surprise to anyone is Marlak. I love love love him so much. Its the fact that he has always remained respectful to Astra from the very beginning, upholding the promises he made to her, and making sure she had everything she needed even if he was an exiled prince and only had so much to offer her!! This book had me in such a chokehold I wasn't even aware of the time as I read it.
I'm so excited for the release so I can get a physical copy and annotate the heck out of it like I did with my kindle, and also waiting with bated breath for book 2 to come out!!
This was an amazing read! I am very much a reader that LOVES books with vibes and this just hit the spot for me
The beginning chapters of the book felt a tad bit messy, where I was fumbling in the dark trying to make sense of the setting/premise of the story, but the book picks up better afterwards and had me immediately immersed. I did find that while I liked Astra, she did have a bit too much of monologue and it made me feel like we were both spinning in circles. Astra had absolutely no filter and I love it, her intrusive thoughts and speech reminds me of Serpent and Dove, but better. My absolute favourite character in the book, which is no surprise to anyone is Marlak. I love love love him so much. Its the fact that he has always remained respectful to Astra from the very beginning, upholding the promises he made to her, and making sure she had everything she needed even if he was an exiled prince and only had so much to offer her!! This book had me in such a chokehold I wasn't even aware of the time as I read it.
I'm so excited for the release so I can get a physical copy and annotate the heck out of it like I did with my kindle, and also waiting with bated breath for book 2 to come out!!
January 30, 2025
*sigh* 3.5 stars rounded up.
The plot of this book is so much fun and the premise is so unique, but ultimately the writing was what lost points for me. Diction is so important.
At times the structure felt a bit clumsy and the words choices were a bit on the juvenile side- which is the last way I’d like to describe a book with this amount of spice. Some minor differences in word choice would have made alllllll the difference in the world for me, personally, and brought this story from 3.5 stars to 4.5 easily.
The audiobook is well narrated, the characters are well-written and the tension between the main characters is great. It’s a solid enemies to lovers with an arranged marriage and the pacing is incredibly fast. The story rarely lags. BUT USING THE WORDS ITSY BITSY WEENIE AND MEMBER WERE CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES.
I’m still invested and need book 2 now though so do with that information what you will.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the audio ARC. All opinions are my own.
The plot of this book is so much fun and the premise is so unique, but ultimately the writing was what lost points for me. Diction is so important.
At times the structure felt a bit clumsy and the words choices were a bit on the juvenile side- which is the last way I’d like to describe a book with this amount of spice. Some minor differences in word choice would have made alllllll the difference in the world for me, personally, and brought this story from 3.5 stars to 4.5 easily.
The audiobook is well narrated, the characters are well-written and the tension between the main characters is great. It’s a solid enemies to lovers with an arranged marriage and the pacing is incredibly fast. The story rarely lags. BUT USING THE WORDS ITSY BITSY WEENIE AND MEMBER WERE CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES.
I’m still invested and need book 2 now though so do with that information what you will.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the audio ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2024
I snagged an ARC from NetGalley – feeling like a bookish VIP! 📚
First things first, the beginning of the book was like trying to dance with two left feet. Awkward. I tried to like the FMC, but I just couldn't.
I really wanted to like this book. Romantasy is right up my alley and enemies to lovers.... Swoon. But alas, it was just not meant to be. The side characters felt a bit like the supporting act desperately waiting for their moment in the spotlight.
Maybe it's just a warm-up, a teaser for the grand show that's about to unfold in the sequels? But from what I read, IDK if I will finish this book and read the sequels.
First things first, the beginning of the book was like trying to dance with two left feet. Awkward. I tried to like the FMC, but I just couldn't.
I really wanted to like this book. Romantasy is right up my alley and enemies to lovers.... Swoon. But alas, it was just not meant to be. The side characters felt a bit like the supporting act desperately waiting for their moment in the spotlight.
Maybe it's just a warm-up, a teaser for the grand show that's about to unfold in the sequels? But from what I read, IDK if I will finish this book and read the sequels.
February 2, 2024
Thank you Day Leitao for the opportunity to read this book before its official release!
I loved everything about this book! I loved the writing style, the characters, the way how naration moved me through time via dreams.
Enemies to lovers is my favorite trope and this is perfectly executed. I love how the tension between the two main characters builds-up with every page.
I was so captivated by the story that I finished the book in less than 24 hours.
I loved everything about this book! I loved the writing style, the characters, the way how naration moved me through time via dreams.
Enemies to lovers is my favorite trope and this is perfectly executed. I love how the tension between the two main characters builds-up with every page.
I was so captivated by the story that I finished the book in less than 24 hours.
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