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Transference #2

The Dragon's Curse

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Six months ago, Princess Sorrowlynn stood beside Prince Golmarr to defeat the glass dragon. But when the prince almost killed her after inheriting the dragon's curse of hatred, he went into hiding to keep Sorrow safe . . . from himself.

Now the princess has been training to become a great warrior, with the hope of finding Golmarr. But her search proves difficult when she discovers she has been wed to the prince of an enemy kingdom. Desperate to end her forced marriage and be reunited with her true love, Sorrow must find a way to escape her captor husband. But there's just one more dangerous obstacle in her way. A two-headed dragon is hunting her and will stop at nothing until she is dead.

Can Sorrow summon the courage to wield the only sword that can defeat the beast and save her world from the destruction of the dragon's curse?

336 pages, Hardcover

First published February 6, 2018

25 people are currently reading
682 people want to read

About the author

Bethany Wiggins

7 books761 followers
Bethany Wiggins has always been an avid reader, but not an avid student. Seriously! She failed ninth grade English because she read novels instead of doing her homework. In high school, she sat alone at lunch and read massive hardback fantasy novels (Tad Williams and Robert Jordan anyone?). It wasn't until the end of her senior year that the other students realized she was reading fiction--not the Bible

Once upon a time, Bethany's sister dared her to start writing an hour a day until she completed a novel. Bethany wrote a seven-hundred page fantasy novel that she wisely let no one read--but it taught her how to write. Since then she has penned SHIFTING (2011), STUNG (2013), and CURED (2014).

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5 stars
169 (46%)
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119 (32%)
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59 (16%)
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17 (4%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,692 reviews634 followers
May 6, 2019
****4.25 Stars****

Another enjoyable book in this series where I found myself unable to put the book down for the day. This was a perfect book to read while it rained all day!

The characters are still strong and continue to develop as the story progresses. Ms Wiggins really knows how to keep the reader pasted to the book with a perfect blend of non stop adventure and the right amount of world building.

I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment of this series.
Profile Image for T.K..
Author 3 books111 followers
February 21, 2018
It was delightful to pick up this adventure once again. As before, it shot off unexpectedly in new directions and managed some shocking twists. The moment I finished, I wanted to pepper the author with questions. I assume they'll all be answered in book three, but I'm going to be chafing a bit at the wait.
Profile Image for Emerald Spurgeon.
177 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2023
Ok, but I was not expecting to like this as much as I did. Love me a good twist on a dragon story.
Profile Image for Isel.
1,475 reviews36 followers
May 23, 2019
Loved it.
So when's the next book being released?
Profile Image for Alayney Tressel.
37 reviews1 follower
April 25, 2025
Bummer. The story is cool but the writing isn’t done well. The characters seem so oblivious to common sense especially Sorrowlynn who’s supposed to contain knowledge of a dragon and all his kills of 700 plus years.
Not planning to finish the series after that.
Profile Image for Patricia.
124 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2018
Captivating just as book one can’t wait for the next
Profile Image for Ashley.
286 reviews5 followers
March 5, 2018
I'm going to be brutally honest: I almost didn't make it through this book. In the interest of being fair, I have to admit that I read it without reading the first book, which might skew my overall view of the story. I picked this book from a pile of YA literature to review for a group I'm part of, thinking it sounded like fun, light-hearted fantasy. After all of the sad things I've read lately, I was more than ready for a change of pace. What I got, however, was a tedious and bland fantasy featuring characters I didn't care about in the slightest, making me instantly regret my choice in book.

The Dragon's Curse continues the story of a young princess named Sorrowlynn, who has recently killed and iherited the "treasure" (or powers) of the fearsome dragon Zhun. Meanwhile, her beloved prince Golmarr (who is also her betrothed) has inherited the treasure of the glass dragon, a fierce hatred for her that almost led to her death. This led him on a journey to find an item known as the Infinite Vessel, which would allow both of them to shed the curses they've inherited. At the beginning of the novel, Sorrowlynn has been training to become a better warrior when she is interrupted by the arrival of Prince Treyose, who declares that she has been wed to him by proxy. Add to the fact that Sorrow is now being hunted by a two-headed dragon, and the princess quickly finds herself facing impossible odds as she fights to return to the side of her true love.

I hate to be overly critical, but this book was just a mess from beginning to end. Again, it could simply be suffering from second-book syndrome, but I can only judge it based on its merits as a stand-alone title... and it does not hold up well. The characters seem bland and have ridiculously contrived names (SORROWLYNN, really?), and I couldn't muster up the energy to care about their problems as the story progressed. There is what I assume to be a major character death within the first few chapters, and I felt as much sadness over it as I might for an NPC's death in a video game.

Though Wiggins has decent writing ability, certain quirks of hers had me grinding my teeth in annoyance. For instance, she has an irritating habit of repeating information the reader already knows OVER AND OVER AGAIN, as if we're too stupid to understand it the first tine. I'm not sure if this was to pad the page-length, or if Wiggins was entirely unaware she was doing it, but I kept wanting to scream, "We know already; move on please!"

An example of the aforementioned repetitiveness comes when Sorrow and Golmarr (yep, still hate these names) are facing off against the two-headed dragon. After establishing that both characters can hear the dragon heads speak in their heads, Sorrow begins to repeat everything they say aloud, prompting Golmarr to remind her (and the audience) that he can also hear them without her help. Because the reader learned this literally one page prior, the added dialogue was entirely unnecessary, making me wonder why Wiggins would write it in at all. Either she's really inexperienced as a writer, or has some deep, meaningful reason for driving her audience crazy.

Another irritating quirk of this series is that none of the characters use contractions. Instead of saying, "I don't know what you're talking about," her characters will say, "I do not know what you are talking about," which sounds clunky and tedious to my ears. I understand that this is meant to be Medieval-based fantasy, but that doesn't mean characters can't use contractions. In fact, I've read plenty of fantasy that uses them to make the dialogue sound less awkward. Again, I'm not sure if this is due to a lack of experience on the author's part or some other reason, but it bugged me to no end.

And, though I barely understood what was going on, I will touch briefly on the plot. For what it's worth, this series has a neat premise. Warring kingdoms, evil dragons that were once people who let their demons overtake them, and individuals who can gain a dragon's power after killing it are all really cool and fun fantasy ideas. In practice, however, every aspect of this book seems cliche and contrived, from the forced romance to the by-the-numbers prophecy plot spouted by an old seer. There is no chemistry between the characters, and all of them seem almost bipolar, changing their minds at a whim for the sake of the plot.

An example of this can be found when one of Golmarr's friends (I honestly can't remember which one and don't care) scolds him for letting the dragon's hatred keep him from Sorrow. In literally an instant, he apologizes and embraces her, seeming suddenly unaffected by the "intense rage" he's been feeling the entire book. Little moments like this are dotted throughout the book, making me wonder if any of these characters possess their own spines.

Lastly, I have to gripe about the lack of map in the book, though there is a list of locations and characters in the back. While I appreciated this as someone who hadn't read book one, I like to have a sense of where the characters are in the universe in fantasy series like this one. Without a visual to aid me, I can't get a sense of distance or importance when characters travel, taking me out of the story a bit. This isn't a major gripe, but one more strike for this book that already had me wanting to quit a few chapters in.

I honestly don't think I'd recommend this book to anyone, as there are far more interesting and thought-provoking fantasies in YA. This one had a neat concept, but felt bland and predictable, offering nothing new or exciting to the genre. If you're really curious, I would advise reading the first book first; it might make more sense to an already clued-in reader. If not, I would definitely skip this title in favor of literally any other dragon fantasy series on the market right now. It would be a much better use of your time!
Profile Image for Lexi.
179 reviews3 followers
August 2, 2017
I'm sorry but I cannot wait until 2019 to find out what happens to Sorrow and Golmarr!!! The twists and turns were even better than book one. I seriously love this story so much.
611 reviews3 followers
March 19, 2018
This is the second book in a planned trilogy. The first book, The Dragon’s Price, was one of my top reads last year. While I did enjoy this sequel, it wasn’t quite as good as the first one. It was a little slow in parts and the romance between Sorrow and Golmarr, is pretty well established but having some predictable issues. I am still enjoying the concept of the dragon’s “treasures” and how that impacts the characters and the story. We get more information about these “treasures” and the dragon’s history in this book which was what made this book very interesting. There are some predictable storylines, but still an overall enjoyable read.

Sorrowlynn is still our sole point of view and still a strong female character, even though she gives into men maybe a bit too often. By this I mean she allows herself to be kidnapped by Prince Treyose, and taken forcibly back to his kingdom. Granted she was under the influence of a powerful poison at the time, but she could have tried a little harder to get away. She does show some strong fighting skills and is willing to go into danger to save others from death. She also carries a huge burden of the dragon’s treasure which would not be easy for anyone.

Golmarr’s character is a bit better in this book. I found him to be a little less self centered and controlling like he was in the first book. He is also struggling with the dragon’s treasure he inherited and tries to keep that under control. He is the cause of most of the strain in their relationship, but I get it why he feels the way he does.

They do a bit more traveling in this book and we get to see more of the world that they live in. Each kingdom is different and unique and interesting in their customs and the people we meet their. I didn’t like Treyose when we first meet him, but once we see how his kingdom influenced his behavior, I kind of started to like him. He actually was quite the gentleman by the end of their time with him.

The dragon’s play a large role in this book, mostly through learning about their history and why they are the way they are. This history of the dragon’s is unique and very fascinating to me. I don’t think we are done with the history lesson though. I hope there is more about them and their lives in the next book. There is a two headed dragon in this book whose history was particularly interesting.

This was a pretty good sequel to the first book. Even though it was somewhat predictable, the characters and the dragons make up for that. The setting is also a ninteresting part of the overall story. I am looking forward to finale next year to see how it is all wrapped up.

https://elnadesbookchat.com/
78 reviews
January 30, 2019
I was grabbing other books and went to go pay for them when I glimced this one. I was so excited to see it in Chapters! I got all giddy and immediantly put down another book and grabbed this one! I love the first book for this series and now that i have finished this one i am so frikin excited for the next!

In regards to the dragons and their treasures you hear that Grinndoar’s is about strength but he grew obsessed about it just like Relkinn did for youth and life. So if Golmarr defeats them won’t he inherit that obsession? I know what Moyana said about their love being the key but apparently you can still change even for the right reasons like Mordecai...so I’m excited to see how this pans out! And see my questions answered. And for crying out loud please put a sex scene in it! Golmarr and Sorrowlynn are driving me crazy! Even if Golmarr ends up changing just do it before then! I need a good sex scene from them!

Overall the book was great! I was having trouble trying to get through Outlander and I gave up (I have only even done it once) but i just couldn’t do it (i love the tv series though) and then i pick this bad boy up and i was so happy to be reading again. I loved it! So much adventure and intrigue! Please hurry up and get the next one done please!!!
Profile Image for Dawn Taylor.
1,069 reviews17 followers
February 13, 2018
This book series needs to be in every classroom and school library (as do any other books written by this author-my students literally can not get enough of her work!)!!

The first in the series, is a fantastic introduction to fantasy fiction for those just getting into the genre as well as those that are already obsessed fans of it, like myself! This series has action, adventure, a strong and intelligent female protagonist with an equal to her in every way, love interest, a wonderful love story, and an ending that leaves you needing more! All of this is great enough but what I love even more is the amazingly positive message at the end. The author promotes the power of love and kindness and the power that your thoughts and the things in life that you covet have over you, in both positive and negative ways. She does this through beautiful storytelling without being preachy! Love this book. I already have a lengthy waiting list for all of the copies in my school! 😉😉
Profile Image for Cindy Mitchell *Kiss the Book*.
6,002 reviews221 followers
March 21, 2018
Wiggins, Bethany The Dragon’s Curse (Transference #2), 328 pages. Crown (Random), 2018. $18. Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (fantasy violence).

Princess Sorrowlynn and Prince Golmarr dfeated the glass dragon, but since Golmarr dealt the killing blow, he also inherited the dragon’s treasure – hatred of Sorrowlyn. So close to their wedding, and the pair are separated by fate. The rest of the dragons are after Sorrowlynn, bringing other people’s anger upon her head. How is it possible that the two could ever be together, especially when Sorrow finds out that her detested stepfather has married her off by proxy to an enemy.

I hadn’t read the first and now I am so glad I went back and enjoyed it. Sorrow’s story is dangerous, compelling, and romantic – what a heady mix!

MS, HS – ESSENTIAL. Cindy, Library Teacher
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2018...
Profile Image for Rachel.
742 reviews4 followers
October 8, 2021
3.5 stars. We'll start with the bad: I don't really care about the characters in this book. They're okay, they're written fine enough, I don't hate them-- I just... didn't really care that much about them and their personal problems and feelings. The epilogue was a little cringey to me, after a decently satisfying ending.
That being said, the good: I adore the world-building! I love how the dragons work in this world, and the magic, and how people can turn into dragons by "hoarding" something (eg. knowledge, strength, sorrow, hatred). The idea is so clever and unique and I absolutely love it, ten out of ten. Also, I did enjoy the plot, and the writing style had me going the whole way; fight scenes were especially well-paced.
So overall, excellent story, would recommend at least for how much I love the dragons in this world, but maybe not for the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Yara.
1,219 reviews8 followers
February 11, 2018
Very minor spoilers. I read this in one sitting, it was impossible to put down! I was devastated at how the first book had finished, so i was thrilled that it didn’t take that long for us to see Golmarr again. I loved seeing Sorrow grow even more as a character, her seeing and experiencing even more of the world- a huge departure from her horrible upbringing, and for her to take control of her life. It was nice getting to know some of Golmarr’s brothers, and to meet new characters that will most likely be important in the last book. Oh, and we get to meet some of Sorrow’s extended family which was a pleasant surprise. I can’t wait to read the third book!
36 reviews1 follower
Read
February 27, 2018
(Young adult)
"The Dragon's Curse" (2018) by Bethany Wiggins is the 2nd book in the "Transference" trilogy, a follow-up to "The Dragon's Price." The final book is due in 2019. Advanced intermediate readers that enjoy fantasy fiction can segue into this Young Adult selection. Readers will be immersed in the action-packed fantasy world of Princess Sorrowlynn, a warrior in training and strong female protagonist. Dragons, sword-fighting, evil captors, and curses keep the plot twisting and turning. My only caution for our younger readers stepping up to YA is the romance aspect, as this book does involve a love interest and a forced marriage to an evil prince.
Profile Image for Fareeha.
837 reviews5 followers
May 20, 2018
Last year, book 1 took me by surprise and was a great read. This book is similarly excellent. Though I didn’t remember the finer points from book 1, but the initial chapters do a suitable recall job. Straight forward with a worthy plot, well developed characters, engrossing dragon lore and no triangles, it’s a very good, action packed adventure, fast paced, well written, all making it an unpretentious but enjoyable fantasy. Plot twists are there but are kind of obvious. Only slight con: it’s a little too lovey dovey in a sweet way but it doesn’t overpower the book over much. Overall, it’s a good series and I’m looking forward to book 3.
Profile Image for Bees.
92 reviews10 followers
June 30, 2018
Finally! A book that ended satisfyingly!!! I LOOOVVEE the Transference books, like, LOVE. But it wouldn't be a good review if i didn't give my through opinion. There are five million kingdoms, which is kind of a lot to keep track of. On the bright side, there are not a lot of characters like in Gone (The book i love to hate) and there is a glossary in the back with handy notes and references.

Love these books, and if anyone cold let me know when the next book's release date is coming out, that would be greatly appreciated.
Profile Image for Nisa.
395 reviews
February 15, 2018
Fast Favorite

This book has everything a great fantasy should, but it’s much more than just a great fantasy. Hidden in the words are treasures far greater than a dragon’s horde. The lessons about life and love are woven so beautifully within the story that I find myself full with each page. Full of joy, happiness, love. This book is a treasure to equal the treasure Moyana gives Sorrowlynn.
550 reviews5 followers
December 6, 2018
I had enjoyed the first book considerably and was worried I may not like the second one as much. There were many times I picked up the second book and put it back down worried about how they would resolve the way the second book ended.

I was not disappointed. This book was a worthy successor, I liked the progression of the story with the remaining dragons coming into play gradually. I liked the back story of the dragons and how they became dragons.

I am looking forward to the last book
Profile Image for Stephanie.
616 reviews39 followers
April 19, 2018
Yay, I finally finished a book this month! This book took me forever to read because I've been busy this month. I really liked this book. It wasn't as good as the first book but it was still a good sequel. I can't wait to read the last book when it comes out next year. Overall, I really enjoyed this book but didn't love it.
36 reviews2 followers
March 27, 2019
I liked this 2nd book even more than the 1st. It continues to illustrate the double-edged blade of being connected to a dragon, as both a blessing and a curse. I also love the speed of Wiggins writing. She writes as if she’s just as excited to find out what happens as the reader is! This book reveals more pieces to the puzzle and makes me VERY impatient to read the 3rd book!!!
Profile Image for Christina.
644 reviews76 followers
December 26, 2019
It's been so long since I finished this that I don't really remember my full thoughts on it, oops! I remember being disappointed that some of the magic that I experienced in the first installment didn't carry over to this one, but I think I remember still enjoying it for the most part and curious about how Wiggins would finish the trilogy (series?).
Profile Image for Sarah.
162 reviews5 followers
March 27, 2023
It was enjoyable, though very very different from the previous book. Sorrowlynn changes almost unbelievably much. I liked how the family embraces her. There is a lot of pining for her love, which got annoying after a while. The plot twist got real weird, a bit "convenient", but makes me want to read the last book to find out how they resolve it!
Profile Image for Liga.
22 reviews
August 20, 2018
This book I think was better than the first. The ending was so beautiful yet so sad, so if you have not yet read this book, prepare to tear up because I know I did. I cannot wait till the 3rd book comes out.
Profile Image for Kari.
1,042 reviews13 followers
July 30, 2019
Loved it! Great continuation with fantastic world building. We get to see more of it and as she builds she plots, which is lovely. The characters grow as they should and I still adore the authors approach to dragons. It’s brilliant! Excited for book 3!
Profile Image for Anna Ransom.
46 reviews
Read
August 23, 2019
Character rating (1-10)- 9
Plot rating (1-10)- 8
Worldbuilding rating (1-10)- 7
Ending rating (1-10)- 7
Overall rating (average)- 8
I loved where this book went after the last one, and I would read it again.
18 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2020
This novel was totally action based. The entire plot was like a puzzle that had to be put together and can't say that there was much character development (the action made up for the lack of arc). Overall I adored reading the story and it kept me engaged.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

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