The Cursed Spirit

by Marissa D'Angelo

A Native American tribe, evil spirit and forbidden land; destiny awaits all who venture towards the island.

The pathway to paradise was the only way to describe the island's tempting ways. Unspoken rumors of curses that were set on its land are known by most, but not how they formed. When the Native Americans mostly habited the lands, a tribal chief's son finds himself wrapped up in the island's temptations. Catori seeks to find out why it is off limits to his tribe and uncovers its horrific past. When a creature that is said to lurk in the shadows of night's abyss becomes a reality, it leaves Catori with no choice but to do whatever it takes to save his people.

Spirituality, suspense & sacrifice, this fictional tale of the curse's origin is the first in the Tales of Charles Island series.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

250 pages, Paperback

Published March 25, 2024

About the author

Marissa D'Angelo is an author of fictional novellas of the mystical and spiritual worlds. Her upcoming novella, The Cursed Spirit, is based on the history of curses at Charles Island. She grew up in Connecticut and was walking distance from the pathway that led directly onto its shores. This novella is the first book to Marissa's series about the island. In Fall 2021, Marissa attended the Maryland Writing Convention where she met with several authors and attended helpful writing workshops. In Summer 2022, she looks forward to promoting her books at several local festivals and will be attending Killer Nashville in Tennessee. She now lives in Maryland and teaches second grade. She works each day to help her student's love for writing grow so that it too can provide them with adventure and enjoyment. In high school, she served as the newspaper editor and studied English Literature throughout college. All of her fictional stories are based off dreams that she has had. Aside from writing, she helps support the SPCA through volunteer work and raising funds for animals in need.
Copyright Marissa D’Angelo

Reviews

[Terry Skinner]

I have never become so much a part of a story. Being of Paugasett decent this story took me back to my childhood, listening to my grandfather tell me stories that his grandfather told him. I grew up on Walnut beach and have spent endless hours walking the sacred shores of Milford beach. There is a spirit that take a hold of me whenever I go back. I left Milford in 2006 and moved to Durham, NC.
I get back to Milford every chance I get but at 78 years old it's not as easy as it once was. I can relate to the forbidden island as I was told over and over again not to go there. I have never been able to understand to spiritual connection that I have to the beach and the island but every time I go home, I get to enjoy the comfort and strength that I get.
This story certainly gave me that feeling as I walked with Catori each step of his adventure. I am a firm believer in the spirit.
Thank Marissa for this wonderful story.
Terry Skinner
tws880@aol.com

[Rosie Reviews Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a little unsure of my rating, some of the book felt like it was a middle grade read some of the book felt it was like a YA read. Overall the story was fine, I enjoyed it and the ending, that plot twist was amazing and it did definitely help out the book a lot. I felt like the story was missing something and then I remembered that this is going to be part of a sl a short series with other books with other stories and I feel like that will definitely help out a lot.

[K.M. Bishop · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cursed spirit gives you a wonderful view of Native American culture and day-to-day living. I love the detail the author uses to paint the world her characters live in as well as the folklore that unfolds. This was a great, quick and easy read and I can’t wait to read the next book!

[Elizabeth Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was very interesting to hear the tale. I never heard the stories before so it really peaked my interests. And I can’t believe I read this book within a day.

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book crushed my soul! Marissa D'Angelo did such a great job in bringing you in and giving you all the feels. I can't wait for book 2 to come out.
I was captivated from the beginning and couldn't stop flipping the pages.

[Sandra Massey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Book

This book was not long but held a great story in it about indians. Definitely worth the read and would read again.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oo

Amazing book to read. Loved it. Couldn't put it down at all. Kept me pulled into it. Love the fact she listed the actually place for people to visit. I believe this based off a real person but I'm not 100% sure on that. Main Character was basically a spirit but it was a Hella good story to read

[Angel Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, even as it crushed my soul. Her writing brought these characters and scenery to life. I am so happy that I met this author at Octoberfest and bought a copy of all of her books. I can’t wait to read the rest of her books and especially part 2 of Cursed Spirit!

[Randy Boodram · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was avidly reading “The Cursed Spirit”, the author hooked you with every sentence she wrote, and is, without a doubt, a memorable story that can only be appreciated from here on. It definitely had me turning the pages, as I was ecstatic to find out what was going to happen next. The genres and tropes of this story includes, but is not limited to, elements of paranormal activity, historical references, sweet romance, mystery, and, of course, suspense—a genuine thriller, given the time period it takes place in. If you’re looking for a quality young adult read to fill in the time, I urge you to pick up “The Cursed Spirit”. The author writes with a simple, yet cohesive and down-to-earth style that every element presented is easy to process. I thoroughly enjoy this style and is something other readers can appreciate too. The author really keeps a good pace going for each chapter and they flow well with one another in sequence. We learn some of the cultural values and beliefs of the Native American tribe described in the book, as well as the legend surrounding the historically accurate island in modern day Connecticut. The author doesn’t fall short in describing the necessary descriptions needed to paint the scene before readers. She writes in such a way that it immerses us within the historical context of the story. I even felt myself pulled into the world she describes. One final comment I’ll write about “The Cursed Spirit” is that this book touches home to the residents of modern day Connecticut, because not only are some of the profits going towards preserving the island described in the book, it also pays homage to the indigenous tribe who lived in the region. So reading this book not only preserves the historical landmark, but also immortalizes the Native American history and heritage. Thank you, Marissa D’Angelo. You’re doing a wonderful job with your stories! Keep up the great work :)

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oo

Amazing book to read. Loved it. Couldn't put it down at all. Kept me pulled into it. Love the fact she listed the actually place for people to visit. I believe this based off a real person but I'm not 100% sure on that. Main Character was basically a spirit but it was a Hella good story to read

[Erik R · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cursed Spirit: A Tale of Charles Island is the prequel to Marissa D’Angelo’s thrilling paranormal novella “Presence”. This book, which is the first in the series, explores the history of Charles Island in Milford, CT and provides a thrill for every type of reader! The characters develop with action and romance, and a bit of comedy all woven into the mythology of the island and the native Americans who live nearby. D’Angelo is an expert in placing her protagonist in relatable situations: from his ambition as son of the chief, to his attraction to the unexplored, this book has it all! It is clear the amount of effort that went into the cultural details in the story. One thing that is also clear is D’Angelo’s real-world sense of obligation to the setting of her story. With 10% of the profits from every copy sold going to the restoration of Charles Island, this book is a gift to the people of Milford, who love the island and want it to be here for centuries to come!

There is a chapter in the book where D’Angelo chooses to “break the fourth wall” a bit and through the thoughts of her protagonist we explore what humanity is, what it means. This chapter was beautifully written and is my favorite of the entire book!

I hope you will get a copy for a great read, and to help the Island! 5 stars!

[Bee Gracie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I swallowed The Cursed Spirit in one big gulp and STILL couldn't get enough. Marissa D'Angelo's ability to make Native Americans living in the 1600s feel relatable is astonishing. The relationship between the main character, Catori, and his grandmother, brought back fond memories of my grandmother, who was my best friend growing up. Each character was well-developed for such a quick read. There is not a single character that I did not enjoy. It was evident that research was done on the Native American culture, location, and time period that D'Angelo utilized for her novella. I love that there is a spiritual, yet paranormal edge to this story - it pairs well with the authors distinct style and descriptive story-telling. The Cursed Spirit is a riveting story full of suspense, hope, family, and sacrifice. You must read it today!

[Ellen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I gave up on this book, for three reasons. The first two are personal preference. This is a young-adult book, and I just can't do teen angst. The second, and I hope this isn't a spoiler, is that it seemed this is a horror novel. Again, just not my cuppa. The third reason is the contemporary vernacular. Writers and editors please take note: a historical novel should have at least somewhat historical dialogue. A historical novel should transport the reader back in time, and that doesn't happen when modern slang and idioms are used, at least not for me. It's just too jarring. Is a Native American grandmother, 300 years ago, really going to say to her grandson, "Wow, you and your girlfriend were really killing it on the dance floor!"

[Cynda Gallagher · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE CURSED SPIRIT by Marissa D’Angelo is an intriguing supernatural tale set in Charles Island with a surprising amount of heart. Catori struggles with his self worth and identity as heavy expectations rest on his shoulders. He does what he thinks a Chief is supposed to and receives praise, but doubts himself every step of the way. The cast is well thought out and vibrant with mystery and stark revelations. I found myself staying up well past my bedtime to find out what was going to happen. THE CURSED SPIRIT is sincere, thrilling, and an excellent introduction to the Tale of Charles Island series!

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story of Native Americans, Catrio and a girl whom he grew up to know very well. Every one teased him about liking her as they grew up. They kept hiding it from their families.
They all were told about the island not to go there and why. Tho they were tempted to do it. The evil would take over their bodies and turn them into some ugly creature. Catrio learned that his father brother was taken there. The girl he cared for had gone there and Catrio had to find her fast before the creature got her, but at what expense. Could it free someone else and take another one .

[Weronika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the wonderful Marissa I had the privilege to read this book before it was released and honestly I can say it was really enjoyable. It isn’t my usual kind of genre but I actually quite enjoyed reading it. It has a very interesting storyline and I truly hope for there to be a potential sequel !

[JL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so absolutely LOVED this book! I could not put it down! The characters totally wrapped themselves around me and I feel in love! It kept me reading because I simply HAD to find out what happened next. I'm in love with this author's writing style, and found it so easy to get lost in....in a good way! 🥰🥰

[Harriet (Taylor's version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

i absolutely loved the story and the writing. Chapter 9 and 22 was my personal favourite chapters. I received an arc i couldn't read then because of my exams. After reading this I'm like i should've ditched reading for the exam and read this instead.

[Bernadine Sydow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting book.

[Cristina Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending 😭 This was a quick easy read that ended faster than expected. Hoping for some closure in the next book.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a tragic story filled with love and sacrifice. Catori was a character I could sympathize with as he tried to find himself and his place in the tribe, and what I liked most about him was his empathy for the natural world and for other creatures, even when he was hunting. The minimalist style in the prose reminded me of Hemingway. Some of the spiritual symbols demonstrate how they can mean different things to different people depending on the circumstance. The ending left me wanting to know what happens next to the characters. My only other criticism was that some of the phrases and slang used seemed too modern for the setting and the culture. Still, this was a good story worth reading for anyone interested in stories about Native Americans with a spiritual element.

[Ben Pick · Rating 4 out of 5]

We follow a Native American, Catori, on his quest to discover the mysteries of Charles Island. A supernatural force is haunting him and his family. I liked learning about Catori, his tribe, and the burdens of learning to be chief.

There were a few moments where the stream of conscious way the narrator told the story was difficult to read. Also, a few moments broke the immersion for me as modern phrases and tendencies slipped into the story which takes place hundreds of years ago.

I was genuinely surprised where the story built up to and I appreciated its ending.

[Bryn Grover · Rating 4 out of 5]

This tale of Charles Island follows Catori, son of the chief of the Paugussett Native American tribe and the secrets harbored on the island. The tribe is not allowed by tradition to cross the sand bar during low tide to visit. But why? What is the curse?

The author weaves the tale of the Wendigo into her tale of a self-doubting son of a chieftan. Add in some spirit guides and the protagonists love for Aponi, and a battle looms between the disobenient young man and the curses spirit.

[Joy Rosales · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars I received a copy of this ebook in a Goodreads giveaway.
I found this story interesting and compelling all the way through. I am always fascinated by wendigo stories.

[Ashley 🌹 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a great book. It kept me on my toes because I wasn’t expecting the ending but it was worth the read. I would recommend it to anymore that loves mysteries.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn’t as big of a fan of Presence so I went in a little skeptical. HOWEVER I was solely mistaken. This book was a great read that can be swallowed in one whole setting. Historical fiction isn’t my thing, however this one captured my interest. Definitely recommend.