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Beyond the Veil #1
A Game Cursed and Deadly
A deadly game. A prince of monsters. A girl who may be his undoing.
Fans of enemies-to-lovers, cursed bargains, and gothic romance will devour this haunting romantasy—a tale of fate, forbidden love, and a bargain where losing means more than just death. Perfect for fans of Stephanie Garber, Kerri Maniscalco, and Sarah J. Maas.
Esmeralda never planned to return to Hazel Creek. The town is a graveyard of ghosts—some seen, some only felt—and all the memories she buried eight years ago. But when her grandmother’s death forces her back, she stumbles into something far more dangerous than small-town whispers. A game of shadows. A puzzle made of riddles and blood. A wager with a monster who speaks in poetry and deals in ruin.
Teizel has spent centuries bound to an unforgiving curse, doomed to tempt lost souls into an impossible trial. Win, and they receive their deepest desire. Lose, and they forfeit their lives. None have ever succeeded. None have ever made him hope.
Until Esmeralda.
She is fire and grief, sharp edges wrapped in silk. He shouldn’t get too close. But as she unravels the puzzle, she unravels him, too. And for the first time in centuries, Teizel isn’t just hoping for a challenger to win.
He’s ready to burn the world to make sure she does.
Fans of enemies-to-lovers, cursed bargains, and gothic romance will devour this haunting romantasy—a tale of fate, forbidden love, and a bargain where losing means more than just death. Perfect for fans of Stephanie Garber, Kerri Maniscalco, and Sarah J. Maas.
Esmeralda never planned to return to Hazel Creek. The town is a graveyard of ghosts—some seen, some only felt—and all the memories she buried eight years ago. But when her grandmother’s death forces her back, she stumbles into something far more dangerous than small-town whispers. A game of shadows. A puzzle made of riddles and blood. A wager with a monster who speaks in poetry and deals in ruin.
Teizel has spent centuries bound to an unforgiving curse, doomed to tempt lost souls into an impossible trial. Win, and they receive their deepest desire. Lose, and they forfeit their lives. None have ever succeeded. None have ever made him hope.
Until Esmeralda.
She is fire and grief, sharp edges wrapped in silk. He shouldn’t get too close. But as she unravels the puzzle, she unravels him, too. And for the first time in centuries, Teizel isn’t just hoping for a challenger to win.
He’s ready to burn the world to make sure she does.
527 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2025
12 people are currently reading
376 people want to read
About the author
Ella Laurenti
1 book11 followersElla was born in Italy and raised in various old-as-heck schools around Europe, which in hindsight was probably her dark academia villain origin story. She’s been writing angsty romances while listening to 2000’s pop-rock since before she really had any business doing so. The soundtrack hasn’t changed much (the 2000s gave us some absolute bops and that’s a hill she’ll die on), but the romance has gotten queerer and spicier.
A Game Cursed and Deadly is her first published novel.
A Game Cursed and Deadly is her first published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 29, 2024
I absolutely loved everything about this and can't wait for the next book!
April 12, 2024
This book will definitely not be for everyone, so just keep that in mind if you are debating about picking it up. While I did enjoy this one, there are so things that you need to be okay with reading.
This book is a fantasy paranormal book that is set on present day earth. The MMC is cursed to play this game. He has to find people who desire something so much that they are willing to risk their lives to get it. If they lose the game, they die. Esmeralda ends up being the next person set to play the game. We get to see the characters meeting and their relationship develop over time. Oh and this book has ghosts, witches, and monsters. In fact, the MMC is actually a monster from the beyond.
This book is one of those stories that you need to pay attention when you are reading it. If you stop paying attention, you’ll definitely have to go back and reread to know what’s going on (I’m 100% guilty of doing this several times). However, I thought it was well written and enjoyed the plot.
Now the spice will definitely not be everyone’s taste. It does have spice that includes restraints and choking. Just be aware of this before going in because that was not something I was expecting and it almost seemed like it came out of nowhere. Also the MMC is a monster. The FMC is not. While some of the spice, the MMC was glamoured, there were definitely a lot of parts where he was not.
This book did have LGBTQ+ representation, so if you are looking for a fantasy book that has that, then this one does. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to reading book two when it’s released.
This book is a fantasy paranormal book that is set on present day earth. The MMC is cursed to play this game. He has to find people who desire something so much that they are willing to risk their lives to get it. If they lose the game, they die. Esmeralda ends up being the next person set to play the game. We get to see the characters meeting and their relationship develop over time. Oh and this book has ghosts, witches, and monsters. In fact, the MMC is actually a monster from the beyond.
This book is one of those stories that you need to pay attention when you are reading it. If you stop paying attention, you’ll definitely have to go back and reread to know what’s going on (I’m 100% guilty of doing this several times). However, I thought it was well written and enjoyed the plot.
Now the spice will definitely not be everyone’s taste. It does have spice that includes restraints and choking. Just be aware of this before going in because that was not something I was expecting and it almost seemed like it came out of nowhere. Also the MMC is a monster. The FMC is not. While some of the spice, the MMC was glamoured, there were definitely a lot of parts where he was not.
This book did have LGBTQ+ representation, so if you are looking for a fantasy book that has that, then this one does. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m looking forward to reading book two when it’s released.
June 30, 2024
This was interesting. It's insta-lust and very romance-heavy, with an interesting fantasy setting and puzzle for the MC to solve. At times, it felt like the story paused so the MCs could bang. Some parts were quite predictable, and there were a few typos and inconsistencies, but overall it was a fun time. I'll definitely read the next one.
August 9, 2025
Oh, my wicked little stars… this book devoured me, and I didn’t even fight it.
I said this in my unboxing, but seriously, how the hell is no one screaming about this masterpiece of dark, filthy delight? My vibe check? Immaculate. My rating? Five sinful, soul-stealing stars.
Laurenti didn’t just write a book—she cast a spell and set it on fire. The writing? Sharp and seductive. The world-building? Deliciously enveloping. And the chemistry between the Teizel and the Esmeralda? Babe, it’s not just sparks— it’s the kind of inferno that burns down realms. Absolute cinders.
The emotional depth? Brutal in the best way. You feel their pain, their longing, their hunger. And when the spice hits? Let’s just say, toe-curling doesn’t even begin to cover it. Two chapters, specifically, need to come with a warning label and maybe a fire extinguisher. “Drop Your Glamour” and “Something a Little Monstrous”… whew. That wasn’t spice, that was the entire damn Scoville scale on demon mode. Read those with headphones on and maybe wrap your furniture in plastic like your grandamama’s couch. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 😈🔥
If I had one teeny gripe, it’s that I wanted just a bit more clarity on the magic system—but honestly? I’m convinced Laurenti is saving the real witchcraft for book two, and I am feral for it.
I can’t believe this is a debut. Like, excuse me? Laurenti came out swinging like she sold her soul for this. And honestly, if that’s true, I’d like to thank the demon personally.
Who needs to read this delicious monster feast?
Demon daddies that know how to ruin you but would burn the world for you? Check.
Size difference that’ll make you question your moral compass? Oh, baby, the shifts are shifting.
A witchy FMC who doesn’t take anyone’s crap? Yes.
A monster who would submit just to save her? Hold me.
Realm-jumping chaos? Book two is already whispering promises.
A smartass ghost side character? She deserves her own spinoff.
Need a Summerween read? This is it. It’s dark, it’s dangerous, and it’s hotter than Hell’s seventh circle.
Monster lovers, paranormal romance addicts, and every witchy soul out there… you need this book yesterday.
Thank you for the author for a copy of this amazing book. All thoughts and opinions are mine and are given ferally— I mean voluntarily. 😬
I said this in my unboxing, but seriously, how the hell is no one screaming about this masterpiece of dark, filthy delight? My vibe check? Immaculate. My rating? Five sinful, soul-stealing stars.
Laurenti didn’t just write a book—she cast a spell and set it on fire. The writing? Sharp and seductive. The world-building? Deliciously enveloping. And the chemistry between the Teizel and the Esmeralda? Babe, it’s not just sparks— it’s the kind of inferno that burns down realms. Absolute cinders.
The emotional depth? Brutal in the best way. You feel their pain, their longing, their hunger. And when the spice hits? Let’s just say, toe-curling doesn’t even begin to cover it. Two chapters, specifically, need to come with a warning label and maybe a fire extinguisher. “Drop Your Glamour” and “Something a Little Monstrous”… whew. That wasn’t spice, that was the entire damn Scoville scale on demon mode. Read those with headphones on and maybe wrap your furniture in plastic like your grandamama’s couch. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 😈🔥
If I had one teeny gripe, it’s that I wanted just a bit more clarity on the magic system—but honestly? I’m convinced Laurenti is saving the real witchcraft for book two, and I am feral for it.
I can’t believe this is a debut. Like, excuse me? Laurenti came out swinging like she sold her soul for this. And honestly, if that’s true, I’d like to thank the demon personally.
Who needs to read this delicious monster feast?
Demon daddies that know how to ruin you but would burn the world for you? Check.
Size difference that’ll make you question your moral compass? Oh, baby, the shifts are shifting.
A witchy FMC who doesn’t take anyone’s crap? Yes.
A monster who would submit just to save her? Hold me.
Realm-jumping chaos? Book two is already whispering promises.
A smartass ghost side character? She deserves her own spinoff.
Need a Summerween read? This is it. It’s dark, it’s dangerous, and it’s hotter than Hell’s seventh circle.
Monster lovers, paranormal romance addicts, and every witchy soul out there… you need this book yesterday.
Thank you for the author for a copy of this amazing book. All thoughts and opinions are mine and are given ferally— I mean voluntarily. 😬
December 14, 2023
This turned into a new favorite of mine right from the jump! I'm just a little bummed that it isn't even released yet because I'm not ready to leave Esme or Tei🥹
I loved the storyline and all of the curse clues! I thought they were so clever how everything was so 20/20 in hindsight, but too simple for Tei to ever piece together over the centuries. Mei grew on me super quick, and I loved her relationship with Esme. They were such good friends to each other, and I hope we get more of them in book 2!
I can't wait to meet Tei's family/court and learn about everything that's happened in the Beyond while he was gone for centuries. I really feel like this is going to be a popular series/book, and it deserves every bit of it!
Way to go, Ella! Please give me more! 👏🏻🖤
I loved the storyline and all of the curse clues! I thought they were so clever how everything was so 20/20 in hindsight, but too simple for Tei to ever piece together over the centuries. Mei grew on me super quick, and I loved her relationship with Esme. They were such good friends to each other, and I hope we get more of them in book 2!
I can't wait to meet Tei's family/court and learn about everything that's happened in the Beyond while he was gone for centuries. I really feel like this is going to be a popular series/book, and it deserves every bit of it!
Way to go, Ella! Please give me more! 👏🏻🖤
December 12, 2023
Ella Laurenti really knocked my socks off with this book!
The story follows Esmerelda who has been able to see spirits her whole life. She was always told to keep her gifts secret and to avoid the spirits at all costs.
When her grandmother passes she is forced to return to her childhood town and she runs into Teizel- a man who is handsome beyond all measure but also seems “off” to Esmerelda.
This book is steamy 🌶️🌶️ and heartwarming and packed full of beautiful imagery and adventure. There’s themes of generational trauma and growth, self-love and acceptance, and the romance feels organic.
I really, really loved this book, and I am almost sad I got an ARC because I want book 2 😭
The story follows Esmerelda who has been able to see spirits her whole life. She was always told to keep her gifts secret and to avoid the spirits at all costs.
When her grandmother passes she is forced to return to her childhood town and she runs into Teizel- a man who is handsome beyond all measure but also seems “off” to Esmerelda.
This book is steamy 🌶️🌶️ and heartwarming and packed full of beautiful imagery and adventure. There’s themes of generational trauma and growth, self-love and acceptance, and the romance feels organic.
I really, really loved this book, and I am almost sad I got an ARC because I want book 2 😭
March 24, 2024
This started off as a 5 star read and I absolutely loved the dual POV revealing Tei’s true intentions since the beginning 😳. It was so well written and entertaining, however, as the story progressed, it fell into a pattern of predictability and repetition, diminishing some of its initial allure. While the journey remains engaging, the lack of unexpected twists and turns dampens the overall impact of the storyline.
The characters were absolutely amazing and likable since page one (also the name Esmeralda might be my favorite girl name from now on ❤️).
The characters were absolutely amazing and likable since page one (also the name Esmeralda might be my favorite girl name from now on ❤️).
February 21, 2024
Wow, wow, wow! Where to begin?!
I read this as a digital arc, and I am so grateful to have done so! It was my entry to monster romance, and it was so beautifully done! It is, at its core, a love story that brings enemies to lovers and characters with well-written depth to life in a believable, fantastical setting.
I love the FMC & MMC, Esme and Tei! Their banter, interactions, and hot/cold connection kept me zipping through this book.
I am already so very excited for the next book, I can’t wait to see how their story continues to unfold!
I read this as a digital arc, and I am so grateful to have done so! It was my entry to monster romance, and it was so beautifully done! It is, at its core, a love story that brings enemies to lovers and characters with well-written depth to life in a believable, fantastical setting.
I love the FMC & MMC, Esme and Tei! Their banter, interactions, and hot/cold connection kept me zipping through this book.
I am already so very excited for the next book, I can’t wait to see how their story continues to unfold!
December 18, 2023
I loved this book! Thank you Ella Laurenti. I had a great time, and honestly I could have read more. It was short and wonderful. I loved the puzzle game concept a lot, and I got too attached to Tei. I love him!
January 5, 2024
This was so good from start to finish. The balance between plot and spice was perfect for me. I fell in love with the main characters, Esmeralda, Mei, and Teizel. I do wish that there was a glimpse of what the Beyond looks like. However, that might be for the sequel if there is one. Please Ella Laurenti, don’t leave me hanging like that! I’m so sad that I got to read this early because now I have to wait. I recommend this 100%
June 16, 2025
I’m obviously partial as I wrote the damn thing 😅
I am both terrified and excited for this book to get into your hands. I thank you all in advance for considering reading this little novel of mine.
I hope you fall in love with Tei and Esme just as I did writing them. I hope their journey through generational trauma breaking literal and figurative curses resonates with at least some of you. I hope the words transport you to moody, eery seaside cafes and quiet bookstores, to the cobblestone-paved streets of Barcelona, and maybe to a place… Beyond 😉 And I hope you enjoy the monster spice, too 🫣🫣
Thank you, reader, for choosing to embark on this journey with us ❤️ regardless of what you end up thinking of this book once you read it, the fact that you decided to give it a chance means more to me than you’ll ever understand.
Love,
Ella
I am both terrified and excited for this book to get into your hands. I thank you all in advance for considering reading this little novel of mine.
I hope you fall in love with Tei and Esme just as I did writing them. I hope their journey through generational trauma breaking literal and figurative curses resonates with at least some of you. I hope the words transport you to moody, eery seaside cafes and quiet bookstores, to the cobblestone-paved streets of Barcelona, and maybe to a place… Beyond 😉 And I hope you enjoy the monster spice, too 🫣🫣
Thank you, reader, for choosing to embark on this journey with us ❤️ regardless of what you end up thinking of this book once you read it, the fact that you decided to give it a chance means more to me than you’ll ever understand.
Love,
Ella
August 23, 2025
A Game Cursed and Deadly by Ella Laurenti is one of those rare debut fantasies that sinks its claws into you from the first page and refuses to let go. As an avid reader of advanced copies, particularly those rich in magic, tension-filled romance, and high-stakes games, this book had me completely under its spell.
Set in a lush, gothic world Beyond the Veil, Laurenti crafts an atmosphere that’s darkly enchanting and dripping with danger. The world-building is vivid and intricate. If you’re a fan of immersive settings like those of Stephanie Garber or Kerri Maniscalco, you’ll feel right at home here.
The story revolves around a deadly game (yes, it’s as brutal and magical as it sounds), a prince cloaked in shadows and secrets, and a girl who may be his undoing. There’s an enemies-to-lovers thread that simmers with tension, angst, and undeniable chemistry, with just the right amount of slow burn to keep me on edge.
The characters are where Laurenti truly shines. They’re layered, flawed, and magnetic. I found myself emotionally invested not only in their fates but in their backstories, decisions, and especially the morally grey lines they walk. The stakes felt real and the emotional punches hit hard.
Ella Laurenti is an author to watch, and A Game Cursed and Deadly is a haunting, addictive start to what promises to be an unforgettable fantasy series. I need book two yesterday.
Set in a lush, gothic world Beyond the Veil, Laurenti crafts an atmosphere that’s darkly enchanting and dripping with danger. The world-building is vivid and intricate. If you’re a fan of immersive settings like those of Stephanie Garber or Kerri Maniscalco, you’ll feel right at home here.
The story revolves around a deadly game (yes, it’s as brutal and magical as it sounds), a prince cloaked in shadows and secrets, and a girl who may be his undoing. There’s an enemies-to-lovers thread that simmers with tension, angst, and undeniable chemistry, with just the right amount of slow burn to keep me on edge.
The characters are where Laurenti truly shines. They’re layered, flawed, and magnetic. I found myself emotionally invested not only in their fates but in their backstories, decisions, and especially the morally grey lines they walk. The stakes felt real and the emotional punches hit hard.
Ella Laurenti is an author to watch, and A Game Cursed and Deadly is a haunting, addictive start to what promises to be an unforgettable fantasy series. I need book two yesterday.
July 4, 2025
Thank you to BookSirens for this ARC copy!
It always frustrates me so much that people keep talking about the same fantasy / romantsy books when ABSOLUTE GEMS like this exist!
The book follows our FMC Esmerelda, a human who can see ghosts and MMC Teizel a king of Beyond the Veil. Their paths cross as they are forced to play a game ... wait for it ... that is cruel and deadly! I recommend going in with only that information because it is worth it!
What I loved about this book was that it felt so fresh while still incorporating the tropes we all know and love! It is beautifully written and doesn't constantly repeat and spoon feed the reader as so many new releases tend to do. It also didn't end on a gut wrenching cliff hanger (although there is one none the less) that leaves you completely satisfied but excited for the next installment!
Perfect for those who love
- Easy to comprehend world building
- Just enough modern references to compliment the fantastical elements
- A strong FMC who comes into her own power
- A MMC who will have you FOAMING at the mouth from the prologue!
- Side characters with heart
- A plot that helps those who have been betrayed in love
- Witches
- Monster magic (he has a tail ... and a forked tongue ... I rest my case)
It always frustrates me so much that people keep talking about the same fantasy / romantsy books when ABSOLUTE GEMS like this exist!
The book follows our FMC Esmerelda, a human who can see ghosts and MMC Teizel a king of Beyond the Veil. Their paths cross as they are forced to play a game ... wait for it ... that is cruel and deadly! I recommend going in with only that information because it is worth it!
What I loved about this book was that it felt so fresh while still incorporating the tropes we all know and love! It is beautifully written and doesn't constantly repeat and spoon feed the reader as so many new releases tend to do. It also didn't end on a gut wrenching cliff hanger (although there is one none the less) that leaves you completely satisfied but excited for the next installment!
Perfect for those who love
- Easy to comprehend world building
- Just enough modern references to compliment the fantastical elements
- A strong FMC who comes into her own power
- A MMC who will have you FOAMING at the mouth from the prologue!
- Side characters with heart
- A plot that helps those who have been betrayed in love
- Witches
- Monster magic (he has a tail ... and a forked tongue ... I rest my case)
June 21, 2025
Genre: Fantasy Romance | Curses, Secrets, Fated Pull
Spice Level: 🌶️ Mild tension | Low emotional investment
This wasn’t a bad book — it just wasn’t my book.
Cursed and Deadly had all the right elements on paper: an intriguing curse, a dangerous love interest, a plot with tension and mystery. And yet, I found myself reading from a distance. It felt like I could see the full arc of the story just a few chapters in, and once I mentally mapped it out… I was right.
I kept going more out of curiosity than emotional investment. I wanted to know if my predictions were correct (spoiler: they were), but I wasn’t really pulled in. I ended up skipping over sentences, not because it was poorly written — it wasn’t — but because the pacing and reveals didn’t hit me the way I wanted.
I think this would work for readers newer to the genre or those looking for a softer romantic fantasy without needing big twists or heavy emotional payoff. There’s potential here. Just not enough unpredictability or tension to keep me fully locked in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spice Level: 🌶️ Mild tension | Low emotional investment
This wasn’t a bad book — it just wasn’t my book.
Cursed and Deadly had all the right elements on paper: an intriguing curse, a dangerous love interest, a plot with tension and mystery. And yet, I found myself reading from a distance. It felt like I could see the full arc of the story just a few chapters in, and once I mentally mapped it out… I was right.
I kept going more out of curiosity than emotional investment. I wanted to know if my predictions were correct (spoiler: they were), but I wasn’t really pulled in. I ended up skipping over sentences, not because it was poorly written — it wasn’t — but because the pacing and reveals didn’t hit me the way I wanted.
I think this would work for readers newer to the genre or those looking for a softer romantic fantasy without needing big twists or heavy emotional payoff. There’s potential here. Just not enough unpredictability or tension to keep me fully locked in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 29, 2024
A Game Cursed and Deadly by Ella Laurenti is a captivating and thrilling introduction to the beyond the veil series. Step into a world where a dangerous game unfolds, filled with secrets, curses, and deadly consequences. Esme possesses the extraordinary ability to see spirits, a gift inherited by her mother that she has kept hidden her entire life. But when her grandmother passes away, Esme is forced to return to her childhood town Hazel Creek, where she crosses paths with Teizel a man who exudes undeniable charm, yet raises suspicion in her heart.
The book was unputdownable and filled with surprises, that will will lead readers on a thrilling scavenger hunt unfolding a curse that spans centuries through a modern-day setting haunted by both the secrets of the past and the mysterious allure of the present creating an intoxicating blend of danger and desire. Which brings a refreshing twist to the fantasy romance genre. So prepare to encounter ghosts with their own captivating tales with plot twists that will leave you breathless. Ella Laurenti has crafted a mesmerizing and compelling start to the beyond the veil series, ensuring that this series will capture the hearts of readers and I all ready can’t wait for the second book to come out.
The book was unputdownable and filled with surprises, that will will lead readers on a thrilling scavenger hunt unfolding a curse that spans centuries through a modern-day setting haunted by both the secrets of the past and the mysterious allure of the present creating an intoxicating blend of danger and desire. Which brings a refreshing twist to the fantasy romance genre. So prepare to encounter ghosts with their own captivating tales with plot twists that will leave you breathless. Ella Laurenti has crafted a mesmerizing and compelling start to the beyond the veil series, ensuring that this series will capture the hearts of readers and I all ready can’t wait for the second book to come out.
June 29, 2024
Ew. I'm so mad. This book had one of the absolute best beginnings I've read in a long time. I was absolutely captivated. And the whole thing did a 180 almost immediately. Our MC's have two interactions that only last a couple minutes and the third time they meet they start making out in the street. Teizel is disgusting. He is controlling and possessive. He is a complete Chad. The dialogue was laughably bad with all the crap about wet panties and him saying "good girl". I was completely grossed out. This is not how an ageless otherworldly being should act. What a disappointment. This is one of the extremely few times where I wish this book was YA instead of adult, because maybe then the plot would have actually progressed how I expected instead of turning into straight smut at the expense of good storytelling.
July 6, 2025
I'm upset that I can't immediately jump into book 2. This was a fantastic introduction to a new series! Tei and Esme were really well thought out characters with emotional maturity. I wanted more information about the magic system, especially since the spells didn't have a translation, which I assume would've helped explain what was happening.
I wish less time was spent waiting for Esme to figure out what she wanted and instead building a stronger bond between her and Mei. I feel like the final scene with Mei wasn't as impactful as it should've been because she really only had 2 meaningful interactions with Esme. I'm hoping we get a lot more information about the Beyond in the next book, and maybe an Acuran love interest for Marta!
Thank you to BookSirens and Ella's Laurenti for the free eARC.
I wish less time was spent waiting for Esme to figure out what she wanted and instead building a stronger bond between her and Mei. I feel like the final scene with Mei wasn't as impactful as it should've been because she really only had 2 meaningful interactions with Esme. I'm hoping we get a lot more information about the Beyond in the next book, and maybe an Acuran love interest for Marta!
Thank you to BookSirens and Ella's Laurenti for the free eARC.
December 16, 2023
So this was my first read from Ella Laurenti and I dont think I could of gotten a better book to read by them.
Honestly, I didnt know what to expect going into this - I loved the aesthetic and little blurbs I was seeing, and knew I had to check it out.
I love the spirit element in this book, and how one event leads back to a town where something is slightly off, but none the less - essentially home.
This is heartwarming and the way Ella writes, I can truly imagine this place as if someone took a photo and showed it off.
The romance doesnt feel forced, none of the story feels forced - it flowed perfectly and made me forget I was reading.
I felt like I got to the end way to quickly.
And I can say I am eager to read more.
Honestly, I didnt know what to expect going into this - I loved the aesthetic and little blurbs I was seeing, and knew I had to check it out.
I love the spirit element in this book, and how one event leads back to a town where something is slightly off, but none the less - essentially home.
This is heartwarming and the way Ella writes, I can truly imagine this place as if someone took a photo and showed it off.
The romance doesnt feel forced, none of the story feels forced - it flowed perfectly and made me forget I was reading.
I felt like I got to the end way to quickly.
And I can say I am eager to read more.
December 21, 2023
This book was so good! Definitely one of my new favorite series, and I will be desperately waiting for the second book. Removing one star, which would only be half a star if I was able to, because while I deeply enjoyed the foreign culture aspect Esme brought to the story it also made me feel like I was missing out. While I would’ve greatly appreciated a translation of the spells, I will say the author was great at alluding to the spell’s intentions so I’m not too hung up about it. All in all this was a great book with an amazing plot, and I could definitely see this getting picked up as a movie/tv series!
February 23, 2024
For this being a 57 to 58 chapter book, I flew through this so fast!
it was so good! Had me so enthralled that I couldn’t put it down.
I was having a hard time putting it down, the story will lead you through a scavenger hunt with a devilish mmc whose temptation himself and a fmc who’s grieving the loss of her grandmother and discovers hidden secrets as this story goes on.
There will be ghosts with stories of their own, unexpected, plot twists that you will not see coming, spicy scenes that are a 10/10 (two words monster size😈✨)and did I mention your new book boyfriend is waiting in this book?! 😉
all hail daddy teizel🤭
it was so good! Had me so enthralled that I couldn’t put it down.
I was having a hard time putting it down, the story will lead you through a scavenger hunt with a devilish mmc whose temptation himself and a fmc who’s grieving the loss of her grandmother and discovers hidden secrets as this story goes on.
There will be ghosts with stories of their own, unexpected, plot twists that you will not see coming, spicy scenes that are a 10/10 (two words monster size😈✨)and did I mention your new book boyfriend is waiting in this book?! 😉
all hail daddy teizel🤭
March 11, 2024
This book was highly entertaining, devoured it within a day. It’s got magic, monsters, a quest, (forbidden) love, spice, what more can you want?
Writing has moments where it’s a bit cringe, but 🤷🏻♀️, and the copy editing leaves something to be desired.
But it’s very easy to get sucked into the story. Fantasy elements are easy to follow and not particularly complex.
I will definitely read the next book.
Writing has moments where it’s a bit cringe, but 🤷🏻♀️, and the copy editing leaves something to be desired.
But it’s very easy to get sucked into the story. Fantasy elements are easy to follow and not particularly complex.
I will definitely read the next book.
March 21, 2025
This was so good from start to finish. The balance between plot and spice was perfect for me. I fell in love with the main characters, Esmeralda, Mei, and Teizel. I do wish that there was a glimpse of what the Beyond looks like. However, that might be for the sequel if there is one. Please Ella Laurenti, don’t leave me hanging like that! I’m so sad that I got to read this early because now I have to wait. I recommend this 100%
July 5, 2025
This was such a fun read! I’m a sucker for high-stakes magical games and this one delivered—complete with cursed keys, dangerous bargains, and just the right amount of enemies-to-lovers tension. The atmosphere was dark and immersive, and I flew through the pages trying to figure out how it would all play out.
Some twists I saw coming, but I didn’t mind—it was more about the romance for me. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Some twists I saw coming, but I didn’t mind—it was more about the romance for me. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 16, 2025
I picked this up because hello monster lovers!! But the book ended up surprising me. The thing I liked most was the atmosphere, how both settings shown felt like characters. I also liked that the MMC, even if he is a bit of a “shadow daddy” (or, rather monster daddy), is actually funny in a dry kind of way. And Melin the ghost was my favorite!
December 16, 2023
Wow! Loved this so much! I haven’t read a book with a puzzle concept before and loved that I wasn’t able to predict the outcome until closer to the reveal. The 🌶️🌶️ was perfect. Can’t wait to continue to read the series as it grows!
March 6, 2024
yikes
March 2, 2024
This book is so unique! I’m usually not a monster romance girly, but this monster has me in a chokehold😉 I love the fact that the world is set in the modern day instead of an old timey era! It’s actually very refreshing because most fantasy romance books are set in older times. The characters in this book are wonderful! The pace is pretty good and I only gave it 4 stars bcs I wish there would’ve been a little more of a chase before they got together. It’s just my preference it doesn’t mean the book is bad at all I freaking loved it so much and highly recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a good fall/winter read! It’s super cozy and thrilling!
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