Cursed Debts

by Claire Castellan

Bets are on as to which will kill me my bad luck curse or the fae I’ve bargained with to escape it.

I've always tried to look on the bright side, a challenge when shadowed by a lifelong curse of misfortune. All my attempts to break it have left me in debt up to my eyeballs with the insidious Night Market. Worse, they kidnapped my best friend as collateral.

So I agree to smuggle stolen goods to the heart of the Market to get ahead of my debts--and look for my friend. This job might be our ticket to freedom.

I should have known my curse would make a bad situation worse. Now my lucky cat is captive and I'm wanted by a faerie court.

To survive long enough to save my friend and my familiar, I need one more bargain, this time with the alluring and unhinged fae lord of the Wild Hunt. He’ll do anything to get back what was stolen, including working with me, his maybe-predestined-prey.

My time is running out and the last thing I need is to feel more alive when he looks at me, not when the Hunt is fated to steal my last breath.

Cursed Debts is book one in the Urban Fantasy series, the Fae of Dark Hollow. It features a feisty-but-sweet heroine who refuses to give up, a slow-burn star-crossed romance, a faerie punk setting, and one very lucky cat.

375 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 21, 2026

Reviews

[Niya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I decided not even half way through this book that this author was another favorite. I enjoyed reading it and being a part of the world. I was envisioning everything in my head and loved every..well almost every minute. It did bring tears to my eyes but also made me smile and even laugh. I lost track of time easily being sucked into the story. I couldn't read fast enough. I really hope that anyone else that reads this enjoys it just as much as I did. I know I plan to read anything she releases moving forward. I felt the same way after reading the one dark window series by Rachel Gillig.

[Nicola Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review – Cursed Debts by Claire Castellan
UK Publication Date: 21 March

Thank you to Claire Castellan and publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I was drawn into Cursed Debts right from the beginning, particularly by the dedication: "For anyone who would leap into the faerie ring just for the adventure." It immediately sets the tone for the story and perfectly captures the spirit of stepping into a magical and unpredictable world.

Claire Castellan has created a colourful and immersive world with plenty of layers and depth. Her writing is highly descriptive, which helps bring the setting and magic to life throughout the story. This level of detail really fuels the imagination and allows the reader to fully picture the world she has created, which feels especially important given the complexity of the setting.

The pacing of the book is quick, and there is a lot to take in as the story unfolds. However, I personally enjoy this style of storytelling as it keeps the narrative moving and makes the book feel gripping from start to finish.

The magic system itself felt new and refreshing. It did take me a little while to fully understand the complexity behind the FMC, Mads, and how her abilities work. However, this almost feels like a clever nod to the fact that she herself is still learning and discovering the extent of her powers, which allows the reader to experience that journey alongside her.

I also have to mention the side characters. I'm always a fan of a strong supporting cast, and Jinx definitely delivers here. He adds a great dynamic to the story, and I found myself particularly curious about him. I'm hoping we get to see more of his story explored in the second book.

When I say the relationship between Mads and Dara is a slow burn, I truly mean an incredibly slow burn. There is no spice in this book at all, but there is still a lovely hint of chemistry between them that is cleverly written throughout the story. It feels very much like the foundation of something bigger, and I'm definitely hoping we see that develop further in book two.

The story weaves together several elements that fantasy and romantasy readers will enjoy, including fae bargains, lost family, a cursed FMC, a lucky cat, enemies-to-allies dynamics, and a very morally grey MMC.

Overall, Cursed Debts is an engaging fantasy read with a richly layered world and a fast-paced narrative that keeps you turning the pages.

Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[ObscureVi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

I'm sure I already stated this many times before and I'm just as sure I will repeat it every single time I feel like it will fit: I'm a sucker for cat familiars in books.

I saw the cover of Cursed Debts and the very first thing I noticed was a particular black cat... and I knew I need to read it.

What do we get?
Cat familiar? Check
Some humor? Check
A slow burn that really takes the slow part seriously? Check
Cursed heroine that's not the best with her powers? Check
Oh, did I mention that the main male character is a grumpy fae? This one is also check

The premise had everything that I could have wished for and that saying, I need to admit, that I'm a bit conflicted.

The action was practically constant, not really giving us a moment to take a deep breath and relax. Do I think it's something bad? No, not really. I think it's one of the reason that I was able to finish the book in almost one full sitting (why almost? because I started prologue the previous day, before going to sleep and now I can't say I truly read it in one go). My guess would be the writing style mixed with the pace; most likely the main reason I was able to glide through the book without realizing that it's closer to 400 pages.

There was absolutely nothing wrong with the book itself, I just didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping I would. One of those moments when you like a book, but there simply wasn't that spark.

Overall, I'm glad to have been able to read this debut and I can't wait to see the next books in the series, as I have a feeling that there's a lot we can explore in next installments. Definitely interested in seeing how the relationship between Mads and Dara will evolve.

Now I'm left with one question: where can I get my own Jinx?

[Tricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that I was not excited when I read about the Huntsman and the Wild Hunt would be a complete lie. Not only was I excited about it, this book’s constant and fast-paced action kept me on my toes the whole way through. For me this book was a great start to this series and was a 5⭐️ read.

I cannot wait to see what happens! The mood and the world that she built was colorful at times and dreary at others. She really had a way of making you able to imagine the world and what was going on. I liked the mix of the real world and the supernatural.

The characters felt well done and memorable. I loved how the FMC, Mads, kept fighting to survive and trying to figure out what the right thing to do was despite her circumstances. She struggled with her powers and the curse, but never gave up. The tension and the back and forth between her and Dara, could be felt. At times, part of me was like, “Come on, come on.” 😆

There were all kinds of supernatural species, vampires, fae, shifters and some I won’t name (Don’t want to spoil). One of my favorite things in the book was Mads’s feline familiar Jinx 😸. To me, the motes were interesting, and I liked the magic. Besides the constant action, there were some twists and a couple things I didn’t expect. Now to sit for a few minutes and think where this might be going.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑 No
Releases: March 21, 2026
Recommend to my Book Bestie: I think she would like this a lot!!
ARC Review

[Tristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received "Cursed Debts" by Claire Castellan as an ARC read. It's been a while since I have read any urban fantasy books and "Cursed Debts" hit the spot. It was a very good read with lots of action, chaos and mayhem and a slow burn. The MFC and MMC didn't sleep much, something was always going on. The book kept you on your toes!

The MFC, Mads has a deadly curse thats been passed through her family, but she doesn't know why or how to break the curse. Mads is a courier for World Class Courier Services along with a friend/roommate, Hopper. Hopper gets into some trouble on his last pick up and needs Mads to deliver the package to the Night Market for him. She agrees and sets off to do her deliveries. The Huntsman is following, he is after something that has been stolen and it leads him to Mads.

Mads tends to get into sticky situations that lead to bad luck happening around her, caused by her curse.  Along with her trusty sidekick a cat named Jinx they set out to deliver the package and things go sideways fast. Mads meets the Huntsman, the Fae Lord of the Wild Hunt. They end up making a bargain or two. Mads and the Huntsman team up to get back what was stolen and things get hairy, chaos happens and bargains get broken. Read Cursed  to find out what was stolen and to see if
Mads can break her curse.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid debut

Mortals, fae and a whole cast of supernatural characters, all with their own goals - it’s Cursed Debts.

Magdalena lives her life on the edge of the supernatural - a mortal with a hereditary curse. To make matters worse, she has a debt to pay off to one of the powerful factions. But things are about to get a whole lot more complicated for her.

After she takes a job to help a friend, Mads becomes a target for the Wild Hunt - and catches the particular attention of the Huntsman. With the curse’s power growing, her luck fading and the fight between factions increasing, Mads does the only thing she can - she makes a deal with the fae.

This debut urban fantasy was a good read. With plenty of fae lore at play, it’s fast paced and attention consuming. It comes with a cat familiar, some planar travel, the power of true names, a bunch of stolen memories and a healthy serving of enemies-to-possibly something else.

The story is primarily focused on the quest rather than on romance, but the hints of a future relationship between Mads and the Huntsman. Their involvement is no spicier than a kiss, but the book does make mention of other people engaged in spicier activities. The story involves betrayal and a parent in a mental health facility.

With lots of potential for future books, this book is a great choice for fans of urban/supernatural fantasy.

[icantcomeimbooked · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and chaotic read and I was hooked pretty much straight away. The whole fae bargains, debts, and bad luck curse situation had me stressed but in the best way.

I really liked the main character. She’s constantly dealing with things going wrong but still trying to keep going, which made her really easy to root for. The bad luck curse added such a good layer to the story because every time something started going right, you just knew it wasn’t going to last.

The world was also really cool. The Night Market, all the fae deals, and the darker undertones gave it that slightly dangerous vibe while still being really fun to read. There’s always something happening, so it never felt slow.

And the fae lord… yeah I’m obsessed. He’s chaotic, a little unhinged, and definitely not someone you should trust — which made the tension even better. That slow-burn dynamic had me fully invested.

I also loved the stakes with her best friend and her familiar. It made everything feel more urgent and gave the story that extra emotional push.

Overall, this was such an enjoyable start to the series. If you love fae, chaotic magic, morally grey love interests, and a fast-paced story, this is definitely one to pick up.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[Soha Amer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cursed Debts dives into a world where every action carries a price and magic is never truly free. Claire Castellan builds a story around the idea that power often comes with consequences — and sometimes those consequences follow you longer than you expect.

The narrative explores the weight of choices and the lingering impact of promises, bargains, and debts that refuse to be forgotten. The darker tone of the story adds tension as the characters navigate the complications that arise when fate, magic, and personal responsibility collide.

What stands out most is the emotional struggle behind the supernatural elements. The characters aren’t just dealing with magical problems; they’re also confronting guilt, loyalty, and the cost of the decisions they’ve made.

Overall, Cursed Debts offers a compelling mix of dark atmosphere, supernatural tension, and character-driven conflict.

Dark, atmospheric, and full of tension driven by magic and consequences.

[kelsie. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cursed Debts was a lot of fun. I loved Maddie and getting to watch her grow into her strength and power as the story unfolded. When Claire describes this as a “glacial burn,” she absolutely means it. But I was living for the few tiny glimpses we did get of the attraction between Mads and Dara.

I also really appreciated that the epilogue was from Dara’s POV. I’m hoping that means we might get even more of his perspective in book two.

I thought the dark, gritty atmosphere worked really well, especially with the idea that nothing comes for free - everything hinges on a deal or a bargain. That was a cool and pretty unique concept.

And the best part? Jinx. We absolutely need more cat companions for our FMCs.

Overall, this was a fun start to the series and I’m excited to see where Maddie and Dara’s story goes next.

Thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review <3

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love trying debut authors, especially when the books fall into my number one favorite genre like this one. I’m always a little more lenient with them as their professional help is very minimal. Anyway, I eagerly started this book, and I was immediately drawn into it. For the most part, my attention was kept all the way through. The first part is a little uneven in places, but by the end, it was mostly smooth sailing. One thing about Mads that made me a little annoyed is that she broke a vow she made to Dara. I was a little put out by that. LOL! All in all, I see a lot of potential in this author, and I can’t wait to read more in this universe. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Jennifer Milligan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC from the author but was unable to get to the review until after it had technically been released. Below is my honest review:

Cursed Debts follows a FMC nicknamed Mads who believes she’s mortal but has some magical capabilities. When she uses her magic to much bad things tend to happen to her as a result of a curse that has been put upon her family. She is literally hunted by a demon Huntsman who believes she’s responsible for stealing something extremely important because of the cursed mark she has. I will say I did love seeing the cat familiar,Jinx!

The story feels like it was written for a younger audience than myself-almost pushing 50. It was action packed, there was some humorous exchanges, and fights along the way. Just not my cup of tea.

[Laura W · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got an early copy of this book and overall I really enjoyed it. It’s fast paced with nonstop action that keeps things moving, which I liked a lot. There were a few moments where I felt a little confused about what was going on, but I stayed hooked thanks to Mads and her loyal cat Jinx. They definitely kept me invested.

That said, Mads did frustrate me at times, especially considering her situation. She had a tendency to rush into things she knew weren’t the best decisions, which made me want to shake her a little.

Even with that, I still had a good time reading this and would definitely recommend it.

[TheRedBookBox · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cursed Debts by Claire Castellan - This is a dark urban fantasy novel with slow burn romantic elements. The world was well laid out, and the author gave both the MFC and MMC fully fleshed out personalities and backstories. The nonstop action keeps you turning pages until the very end. Since this book is the first in a series, a lot of the questions and mysterious elements of the story are left unresolved, but the immediate problems are solved at the end.

Notes:
-Shadowdaddy Fae
-Blackmarket Mafia
-Frequent violence
-High levels of blood and gore

[Elitta Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed Debts is the first book in the the Fae of Dark Hollow series by Claire Castellan. I was hooked from the beginning and couldn't put the book down. Mads is in massive debt to the Night Market from trying to break her bad luck curse. She agrees to their terms to try and get ahead of her debts. She runs into the Huntsman, the Fae Lord of the Wild Hunt, and makes bargains with him. How will this all turn out? Read Cursed Debts and join Mads and Jinx, her cat familiar, on their journey.

[Wendy Rapley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the story. There were some inconsistencies within, but I truly enjoyed the story and the slowburn romance vibe.
The main character was stubbornly optimistic and went through twists and turns that led to self-discovery.
I am more than intrigued and would love to read more of this world that Claire Castellan has created.

[Jess K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where nothing is free and everything comes with a price. Trade secrets for answers. Knowing real names holds power.

I enjoyed the main characters development throughout the book and working through her feelings and also figuring out her powers. I am interested in how the next book goes (if there is one)

Thank you to Netgalley and Claire Castellan for letting me read this ARC.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did enjoy the story. However, it’s not my favorite because I feel that the story was all over the place. It does reminds me a bit of Crescent City. I do like that the supernatural was added to this story to make it interesting. This is just my opinion. I can still recommend it. Everyone has different tastes.

[Joy Whiteside · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a really great read that from the moment that I started I was hooked. It moves along at a really great pace, making for an enjoyable read. It has interesting characters that you want to know and cant help but love and a story that will not disappoint and keep you interested. This book needs to be on your TBR list, there is no doubt about it.