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Celestial Bodies #1
Awful Curse
He was King of Arcadia Prep until she came for his throne…
ARIANNA
We moved around a lot, too much.
The shine of my highly respected and decorated military dad’s badge wore off after I became heavy baggage.
I was the new girl thirteen times in two years and every time I had to tape up another box I grew more resentful. Forced to forget everyone I fell in love with, laughed with and bonded with.
For a certain price you could unburden yourself from your hormonal teen at Arcadia Prep too.
I’m reckless.
I’m impatient.
Purple hair, a don’t care attitude and my Doc Martins all screamed leave me alone, fending off any new relationships.
I vowed to keep my heart safe this time, locking it away right under my anger but he knew exactly where I hid the spare key – in his mysterious eyes the minute ours locked.
BOLTON
I was stuck – the essence of a God in some kind of limbo of high school.
I was meant for more than this.
Being king here meant nothing.
Arcadia Prep wasn’t for the weak. The expectations, the pressure, the standards, the success and privilege smug on everyone’s face wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
I thrived in chaos.
I’m fearless.
I’m ruthless.
The new girl was not my cup of tea.
She stomped her doc martins all over my tradition, rules and my reign.
We all have secrets. Mine were paper weighted down by my heavy crown.
Her violet eyes and her abrupt attitude spewed sass all over my black on black. She didn’t faze me until I realized she was after my crown…
ARIANNA
We moved around a lot, too much.
The shine of my highly respected and decorated military dad’s badge wore off after I became heavy baggage.
I was the new girl thirteen times in two years and every time I had to tape up another box I grew more resentful. Forced to forget everyone I fell in love with, laughed with and bonded with.
For a certain price you could unburden yourself from your hormonal teen at Arcadia Prep too.
I’m reckless.
I’m impatient.
Purple hair, a don’t care attitude and my Doc Martins all screamed leave me alone, fending off any new relationships.
I vowed to keep my heart safe this time, locking it away right under my anger but he knew exactly where I hid the spare key – in his mysterious eyes the minute ours locked.
BOLTON
I was stuck – the essence of a God in some kind of limbo of high school.
I was meant for more than this.
Being king here meant nothing.
Arcadia Prep wasn’t for the weak. The expectations, the pressure, the standards, the success and privilege smug on everyone’s face wasn’t everyone’s cup of tea.
I thrived in chaos.
I’m fearless.
I’m ruthless.
The new girl was not my cup of tea.
She stomped her doc martins all over my tradition, rules and my reign.
We all have secrets. Mine were paper weighted down by my heavy crown.
Her violet eyes and her abrupt attitude spewed sass all over my black on black. She didn’t faze me until I realized she was after my crown…
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2020
203 people are currently reading
1198 people want to read
About the author
Elena Monroe
19 books546 followersElena Monroe grew up in Florida scribbling down stories from a very young age. These stories were really just wavy lines filling the paper, but she knew each word, each emotion, each character's name, and there was no tricking her into forgetting what each line signified. Just like her unconventional way of writing as a toddler Elena is setting her own rules and just telling stories.
Much like her debut novel, The Best Years, life certainly imitated art. Transplanting from the South to the East Coast, Elena currently lives in Connecticut with her husband, reformed bad boy.
Find her on her social media through Twitter at @elenamonroe, Instagram at @elenamonroewrites, Facebook at @elenamonroewrites, and more!
Much like her debut novel, The Best Years, life certainly imitated art. Transplanting from the South to the East Coast, Elena currently lives in Connecticut with her husband, reformed bad boy.
Find her on her social media through Twitter at @elenamonroe, Instagram at @elenamonroewrites, Facebook at @elenamonroewrites, and more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
February 22, 2020
YOU GUYS WHAT DID I JUST READ???? What a heck of a ride that story was. I want to start off by saying that I’m not a fan of fantasy, but this book I LOVED IT!! The angst, the suspense, the characters they were everything.
This story held some of the most intense unapologetic characters! And I’m here for it. They were strong and admirable, but at the same time I wanted to shake them. Elena did an incredible job using Gods and signs to tell this story. I didn’t understand signs before, but the way it was told omg I fell in love.
The retelling of Henry was so interesting reading about his story. I felt like I was in that time period. Bolton was your haunting bad boy alpha where his memories were his chains to his pain. I loved him. He was a brilliant character. I loved that he held the memories to them all. It was a blessing and a curse. My heart hurt when he wanted Adrianna to remember. Adrianna was such a strong character. I love her sass and attitude. Especially her nonchalant I don’t care about anything, but in all reality she did. And the way she hurt in secret.
The rest of the characters were amazing too. Nyx and Austin are precious even though their characters are strong and demanding as well. They filled my soul with what I needed. Also Luna was such a sweet character with a twist. Nyx and Luna and Austin and Kate were the cutest thing. I can’t wait to hear the rest of the story through the rest of the couples POV.
This story had me on the edge of my seat. I wanted to read so fast to get to the end and learn what happens, but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait for the rest. I want to say I’m ready, but I don’t think I am. Especially because all the theories you have turn out to be wrong or have a twist. Such an amazing read. That ending too man.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.*
This story held some of the most intense unapologetic characters! And I’m here for it. They were strong and admirable, but at the same time I wanted to shake them. Elena did an incredible job using Gods and signs to tell this story. I didn’t understand signs before, but the way it was told omg I fell in love.
The retelling of Henry was so interesting reading about his story. I felt like I was in that time period. Bolton was your haunting bad boy alpha where his memories were his chains to his pain. I loved him. He was a brilliant character. I loved that he held the memories to them all. It was a blessing and a curse. My heart hurt when he wanted Adrianna to remember. Adrianna was such a strong character. I love her sass and attitude. Especially her nonchalant I don’t care about anything, but in all reality she did. And the way she hurt in secret.
The rest of the characters were amazing too. Nyx and Austin are precious even though their characters are strong and demanding as well. They filled my soul with what I needed. Also Luna was such a sweet character with a twist. Nyx and Luna and Austin and Kate were the cutest thing. I can’t wait to hear the rest of the story through the rest of the couples POV.
This story had me on the edge of my seat. I wanted to read so fast to get to the end and learn what happens, but at the same time I didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait for the rest. I want to say I’m ready, but I don’t think I am. Especially because all the theories you have turn out to be wrong or have a twist. Such an amazing read. That ending too man.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.*
February 13, 2020
“First time we were released, the Victorian Era. We were meant to influence the people, propel evolution forward, inspire change…”
Urban Fantasy has long been a sub genre of romance that I’ve loved. It’s been hard to find very many of them that aren’t the same exact trope though. They all are at school, they all revolve around a girl that doesn’t know she has incredible powers and they all sorta blur together with their illustrative covers.
Then enter Elena’s debut urban fantasy series , The Celestial Bodies. The first book Awful Curse is by far her best written work to date. You get the setting that has been iconic in recent years, a school. Aka Arcadia Prep. You get the girl who doesn’t know she has incredible powers. Aka Arianna. But everything else is blown out of every norm you think you know about Urban Fantasy.
“What am I when I'm around you?” “What you should be, motivated and relentless.”
The cover is every lustful thing we love about romance covers but kicked up into a fantastical element. I live and breath Bolton let me tell ya. Arianna finds herself at yet another school in the many that she has attended over the years. Arcadia Prep is filled with the outcast of crisp money and charity cases. All dressed in uniforms marching to the same tired and true beat.
“Arcadia Prep is every other cesspool of stereotypes, drama, hookups, and break ups.”
Bolton and his inner circle primarily run the school. Whether it’s good looks or angsty attitudes they are known to be the top of the food chain. Except... what no one knows is they’ve played this cycle more times than they can count. What no one knows is under their veins powers of the old Gods run true...and what Arianna doesn’t know is she’s one of them.
In a fantasy romance that brings your Gods, Zodiac, and some of the best raw and gritty bully romance sex scenes I’ve read this year Elena steps up the overplayed Urban Fantasy genre and sends it into astronomical proportions. Bolton and Arianna are sexy, brash and a collision of black holes that you just can’t look away from.
Awful Curse sets up the Celestial Bodies series in a way I’m not sure Elena will ever be able to outdo. But then again.. stranger things have happened when the Gods are involved.
Meet the king of Arcadia Prep....
His lips were mine. His body was mine. His crown was… mine.
Urban Fantasy has long been a sub genre of romance that I’ve loved. It’s been hard to find very many of them that aren’t the same exact trope though. They all are at school, they all revolve around a girl that doesn’t know she has incredible powers and they all sorta blur together with their illustrative covers.
Then enter Elena’s debut urban fantasy series , The Celestial Bodies. The first book Awful Curse is by far her best written work to date. You get the setting that has been iconic in recent years, a school. Aka Arcadia Prep. You get the girl who doesn’t know she has incredible powers. Aka Arianna. But everything else is blown out of every norm you think you know about Urban Fantasy.
“What am I when I'm around you?” “What you should be, motivated and relentless.”
The cover is every lustful thing we love about romance covers but kicked up into a fantastical element. I live and breath Bolton let me tell ya. Arianna finds herself at yet another school in the many that she has attended over the years. Arcadia Prep is filled with the outcast of crisp money and charity cases. All dressed in uniforms marching to the same tired and true beat.
“Arcadia Prep is every other cesspool of stereotypes, drama, hookups, and break ups.”
Bolton and his inner circle primarily run the school. Whether it’s good looks or angsty attitudes they are known to be the top of the food chain. Except... what no one knows is they’ve played this cycle more times than they can count. What no one knows is under their veins powers of the old Gods run true...and what Arianna doesn’t know is she’s one of them.
In a fantasy romance that brings your Gods, Zodiac, and some of the best raw and gritty bully romance sex scenes I’ve read this year Elena steps up the overplayed Urban Fantasy genre and sends it into astronomical proportions. Bolton and Arianna are sexy, brash and a collision of black holes that you just can’t look away from.
Awful Curse sets up the Celestial Bodies series in a way I’m not sure Elena will ever be able to outdo. But then again.. stranger things have happened when the Gods are involved.
Meet the king of Arcadia Prep....
His lips were mine. His body was mine. His crown was… mine.
April 3, 2020
And I'm officially over with this shit.
I don't know what those reviewers, that gave 4 and 5* to this book, smoked but it was good shit.
One of the stupidest books I have ever read in my life. Please look at my profile and see how many books I've read. This is not a gratuitous remark.
Full of plot holes, inconsistencies and continuity issues. Not to speak of grammar and spelling mistakes galore.
I have a tendency to finish books, even the bad ones but I'm rethinking my strategy after this one. It can't be healthy for my IQ .
Everything, from the characters to the dialogue to the plot was SHIT, and not thought out. I don't think even the author knew what she was trying to accomplish with this.
And I entered with such an open mind, I wanted to love this book, I was giddy with anticipation. I was overwhelmingly disappointed.
P.S. The second star is for the cover.
I don't know what those reviewers, that gave 4 and 5* to this book, smoked but it was good shit.
One of the stupidest books I have ever read in my life. Please look at my profile and see how many books I've read. This is not a gratuitous remark.
Full of plot holes, inconsistencies and continuity issues. Not to speak of grammar and spelling mistakes galore.
I have a tendency to finish books, even the bad ones but I'm rethinking my strategy after this one. It can't be healthy for my IQ .
Everything, from the characters to the dialogue to the plot was SHIT, and not thought out. I don't think even the author knew what she was trying to accomplish with this.
And I entered with such an open mind, I wanted to love this book, I was giddy with anticipation. I was overwhelmingly disappointed.
P.S. The second star is for the cover.
February 23, 2020
4.5 🌟 Stars
▪▪▪ She was painfully normal. She was naturally curious, though, which made observing her a dangerous game. My new favorite game. ▪▪▪
Awful Curse is book 1 in the Celestial Bodies series and holy heck was it an insanely addictive and intruiging ride that kept me guessing until the very end and boy did I enjoy every minute of it.
This is a fantasy new adult romance based off of astrology and greek mythology and set in a gothic inspired elite boarding school complete with secrets, lies, betrayal, manipulation, spark, passion, heat and so much curiosity with a whole cast of characters. Arcadia Prep was described in such a vivid and detailed way that I truly feel like I was apart of this world
Arianna was sassy, spunky, strong minded, funny, gaurded, unapologetically feirce as well as vulnerable and insecure at times. I loved her character so much she was badass and I enjoyed getting lost in the story and following her curiosity into finding out what is happening in this school
Bolton was a closed off, tough love kind of an asshole we all love to hate. He was moody, broody and acted like a true king of ruling the school. He is all about loyalty and determination as well as his protective nature and I loved getting inside his head and watching him slowly let down some of his walls while still remaining true to his character
Yet again Elena has delivered us a new series to obsess over with a whole bunch of new characters to fall madly in love with. I love well written side characters and this book has some amazing ones including my new book boyfriend Nyx who happens to be a super strong, super hot Australian legit swooning right now
And that ending.. this story is far from over and im just left sitting here trying to pick up the pieces of my brain off the floor wondering how long I have to wait for book 2 because i kind of want it now. Going into this book I wasnt really familar with this genre but I'm so glad I gave this book a chance and can't wait for more in the series
《book aesthetic made by me, I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
▪▪▪ She was painfully normal. She was naturally curious, though, which made observing her a dangerous game. My new favorite game. ▪▪▪
Awful Curse is book 1 in the Celestial Bodies series and holy heck was it an insanely addictive and intruiging ride that kept me guessing until the very end and boy did I enjoy every minute of it.
This is a fantasy new adult romance based off of astrology and greek mythology and set in a gothic inspired elite boarding school complete with secrets, lies, betrayal, manipulation, spark, passion, heat and so much curiosity with a whole cast of characters. Arcadia Prep was described in such a vivid and detailed way that I truly feel like I was apart of this world
Arianna was sassy, spunky, strong minded, funny, gaurded, unapologetically feirce as well as vulnerable and insecure at times. I loved her character so much she was badass and I enjoyed getting lost in the story and following her curiosity into finding out what is happening in this school
Bolton was a closed off, tough love kind of an asshole we all love to hate. He was moody, broody and acted like a true king of ruling the school. He is all about loyalty and determination as well as his protective nature and I loved getting inside his head and watching him slowly let down some of his walls while still remaining true to his character
Yet again Elena has delivered us a new series to obsess over with a whole bunch of new characters to fall madly in love with. I love well written side characters and this book has some amazing ones including my new book boyfriend Nyx who happens to be a super strong, super hot Australian legit swooning right now
And that ending.. this story is far from over and im just left sitting here trying to pick up the pieces of my brain off the floor wondering how long I have to wait for book 2 because i kind of want it now. Going into this book I wasnt really familar with this genre but I'm so glad I gave this book a chance and can't wait for more in the series
《book aesthetic made by me, I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
Read
February 27, 2020An honest review in exchange for an ARC:
I’m not going to star this one, and I’ll tell you why. I really, and I mean REALLY, wanted to fall in love with this world. But, sadly... that’s not what happened.
Now, the ideas were exciting and fresh—it did have some Fallen by Kate Lauren vibes but, nothing too crazy. I love Greek Gods and I’m always hoping to find a book I’ll love with them, it just doesn’t happen often.
So, why didn’t I fall in love with this one? I just... didn’t connect with the characters or what they were doing. There were words that were repeated constantly (example King) that began to throw me off. But, again, that wasn’t just it. It was an overall feeling of not being able to get absorbed into the story and it’s a shame. I felt most of their interactions weren’t believable. The stakes weren’t high enough for me. The villain was just there. The setup for the next couple didn’t intrigue me. Gods should be Gods in my opinion and this felt like it missed the mark by a long shot. There are a lot of reasons that for me this just didn’t work, but I don’t want to list them all.
I feel bad I didn’t love it and I’m sure there are lots that will just not me.
I’m not going to star this one, and I’ll tell you why. I really, and I mean REALLY, wanted to fall in love with this world. But, sadly... that’s not what happened.
Now, the ideas were exciting and fresh—it did have some Fallen by Kate Lauren vibes but, nothing too crazy. I love Greek Gods and I’m always hoping to find a book I’ll love with them, it just doesn’t happen often.
So, why didn’t I fall in love with this one? I just... didn’t connect with the characters or what they were doing. There were words that were repeated constantly (example King) that began to throw me off. But, again, that wasn’t just it. It was an overall feeling of not being able to get absorbed into the story and it’s a shame. I felt most of their interactions weren’t believable. The stakes weren’t high enough for me. The villain was just there. The setup for the next couple didn’t intrigue me. Gods should be Gods in my opinion and this felt like it missed the mark by a long shot. There are a lot of reasons that for me this just didn’t work, but I don’t want to list them all.
I feel bad I didn’t love it and I’m sure there are lots that will just not me.
February 24, 2020
Elena, you kill me with your books! Can you write anything but perfection? Each book is better then the last, you always have me hooked and salivating for more! This was my first Fantasy book that I actually finished, I was obsessed from the first chapter to the last. I couldn’t imagine a life now with out Bolton and Arianna in it ( and Nyx..😜). I love how you’re able to write such strong characters that mesh so well together. Arianna alone is truly one of my favorite female characters, which is so hard to come by. She’s so strong, opinionated, and truly just goes after what she wants logic, rules be damned. Then Bolton, how could you not fall for a brooding demi god, Who is gorgeous, athletic, smart mouth, a perfect match for Arianna. She wants him and she’s not going down without a fight, which creates a spark between them (literally) that makes you unable to stop reading, you just need more. This mix of fantasy and romance is truly perfect. A must read for Fantasy loves, a must read for Romance lovers!
April 21, 2020
Damn this was so interesting! I'm not even sure what I just read. It was mysterious, entertaining, fascinating and I can't wait to get more and learn more about this world.
February 21, 2020
I've read books by this author before and I really like her style of writing. This book is a fantasy and I didnt really know what to expect.
The Celestial Bodies.
This is the first book in this series.
Arianna is a very sexy, strong minded woman and knows what she wants and how to get it.she moved around a lot and has been the new girl a lot of times and has had to start over a lot.
Bolton is fearlessand is a real alpha male and is a very sexy guy and him and his friends have a lot of pull in the school. These two both have a sizzling amount of chemistry between them both and really they are made for each other.
Arcadia Prep is the shool that they attend and is a total mix of all types of people. Whenthese two seen each other they thought they could resist each other, can they ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
This book does have the steam factor as it does get very hot in parts, while there are also parts that are full of drama and tension and lies and love. There is secrets too but will they come out ? Although I will say that I'm not really keen on romance/ fantasy mixture I dont really think that its for me.
This author writes great chracters in all her books and she knows how to bring them to life to make you really feel them. When you think that that you have grasped the story line the twists will have you thinking again.
Thank You to the authors and the publishers for allowing me o read an early copy of this book.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This book is expected to be released on 24th February 2020.
The Celestial Bodies.
This is the first book in this series.
Arianna is a very sexy, strong minded woman and knows what she wants and how to get it.she moved around a lot and has been the new girl a lot of times and has had to start over a lot.
Bolton is fearlessand is a real alpha male and is a very sexy guy and him and his friends have a lot of pull in the school. These two both have a sizzling amount of chemistry between them both and really they are made for each other.
Arcadia Prep is the shool that they attend and is a total mix of all types of people. Whenthese two seen each other they thought they could resist each other, can they ?
( NO SPOILERS ).
This book does have the steam factor as it does get very hot in parts, while there are also parts that are full of drama and tension and lies and love. There is secrets too but will they come out ? Although I will say that I'm not really keen on romance/ fantasy mixture I dont really think that its for me.
This author writes great chracters in all her books and she knows how to bring them to life to make you really feel them. When you think that that you have grasped the story line the twists will have you thinking again.
Thank You to the authors and the publishers for allowing me o read an early copy of this book.
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This book is expected to be released on 24th February 2020.
February 21, 2020
Normally when reviewing a book I have so much to say I can't filter my thoughts. This one I'm so opposite it's not even funny. I'm literally sat here flabbergasted at wtf I just read.
Be prepared for rambling.
I've given it 4 stars simply because it's not finished. It's a mother fucking cliffy. I don't like them and normally stay clear just because they drive me to the brink of insanity. However this one took me by surprise hence the shock of that ending although I will say I caught on by 90% because there was no way this could be wrapped up in so few pages. As always with books like this I can't have a final thought until I've read the conclusion because that's when the beginning makes more sense to me and I can really see how the author set everything up in preparation for the end. So don't mistake me not loving this book I have ALOT of feelings towards it but for now I'm leaving it at 4.
Ok I read this when I wasn't supposed to. I mean I have a tonne of books to review and this was a surprise so i didn't even have a good idea what it was all about. Something about it just called to me though. I don't know why I thought picking it up at 11pm was a good idea but I did it anyway.
From the first page I was hooked. I felt so drawn to this crazy world of gods and myths. The author crumb feeds you tiny pieces of the puzzle as the story unfolds whilst simultaneously giving you huge clues to what's happened in the past for it to get to this point. But it doesn't always make a tonne of sense at the time and it also confuses you because what's happening in the reality doesn't coincide with what you think it going to happen and what's already happened. It's honestly a totally mind fuck of epic proportions and mix that with high school drama, love hate frenmance relationships and a boat load of unknown.. I couldn't make out wether I was drowning or staying afloat in this story.
The characters I know your either going to love or hate. They aren't going to be everyone's cup of tea. Even when you love them you still hate them and or what they're doing. They pushed boundaries beyond limits I normally can deal with. That's the craziest thing about this book for me. Generally I'm someone who hates angsty shit!. That includes the cat and mouse games between characters, random fights for no reason and the unknown with no conclusion . But for some reason the way Elena has wrote it made me forget that those things are normally things I hate in books because in this one I was so invested in their story and finding out who,what and why.
I definitely feel like this is a book you have to read twice because there is so much information it can get overwhelming. I know I'll read it back and find things I missed before and that could possibly give me clues as to where this story is going in the future because they way it leaves us it fucking brutal.
Arianna is a lost girl with a chip on her shoulder and a lot of hurt hidden behind her huge attitude.
Bolton is a guy with a God complex and a attitude problem that rivals Arianna's but he hides it all behind a stogic persona.
They are both very intricately woven characters with so much depth that it's almost all consuming. They are quite literally their own worst enemy and equally the balm to soothe eachother. It's positively explosive between the pair in both good and bad ways. But there is also so much we don't know.
It's hard to write a review on a book that's left me with more questions that answers. I feel completely in turmoil over it all because I don't know wtf just happened. The author did a great job in writing a story that has me so completely invested and also not aware of exactly what's happening. It's suspenseful, angsty, anger fuelled and passionate. Secrets and lies hidden under untold truths. Crazy depths in character we haven't even cracked the surface of and a unknown future.
It takes serious talent to have me feeling all kinds of fucked up and still has me wanting more despite it not normally being something I'm interested in.
I'm going to leave it here for now and maybe pop back when I've re-read and have more to add or make more sense of it all.
Be prepared for rambling.
I've given it 4 stars simply because it's not finished. It's a mother fucking cliffy. I don't like them and normally stay clear just because they drive me to the brink of insanity. However this one took me by surprise hence the shock of that ending although I will say I caught on by 90% because there was no way this could be wrapped up in so few pages. As always with books like this I can't have a final thought until I've read the conclusion because that's when the beginning makes more sense to me and I can really see how the author set everything up in preparation for the end. So don't mistake me not loving this book I have ALOT of feelings towards it but for now I'm leaving it at 4.
Ok I read this when I wasn't supposed to. I mean I have a tonne of books to review and this was a surprise so i didn't even have a good idea what it was all about. Something about it just called to me though. I don't know why I thought picking it up at 11pm was a good idea but I did it anyway.
From the first page I was hooked. I felt so drawn to this crazy world of gods and myths. The author crumb feeds you tiny pieces of the puzzle as the story unfolds whilst simultaneously giving you huge clues to what's happened in the past for it to get to this point. But it doesn't always make a tonne of sense at the time and it also confuses you because what's happening in the reality doesn't coincide with what you think it going to happen and what's already happened. It's honestly a totally mind fuck of epic proportions and mix that with high school drama, love hate frenmance relationships and a boat load of unknown.. I couldn't make out wether I was drowning or staying afloat in this story.
The characters I know your either going to love or hate. They aren't going to be everyone's cup of tea. Even when you love them you still hate them and or what they're doing. They pushed boundaries beyond limits I normally can deal with. That's the craziest thing about this book for me. Generally I'm someone who hates angsty shit!. That includes the cat and mouse games between characters, random fights for no reason and the unknown with no conclusion . But for some reason the way Elena has wrote it made me forget that those things are normally things I hate in books because in this one I was so invested in their story and finding out who,what and why.
I definitely feel like this is a book you have to read twice because there is so much information it can get overwhelming. I know I'll read it back and find things I missed before and that could possibly give me clues as to where this story is going in the future because they way it leaves us it fucking brutal.
Arianna is a lost girl with a chip on her shoulder and a lot of hurt hidden behind her huge attitude.
Bolton is a guy with a God complex and a attitude problem that rivals Arianna's but he hides it all behind a stogic persona.
They are both very intricately woven characters with so much depth that it's almost all consuming. They are quite literally their own worst enemy and equally the balm to soothe eachother. It's positively explosive between the pair in both good and bad ways. But there is also so much we don't know.
It's hard to write a review on a book that's left me with more questions that answers. I feel completely in turmoil over it all because I don't know wtf just happened. The author did a great job in writing a story that has me so completely invested and also not aware of exactly what's happening. It's suspenseful, angsty, anger fuelled and passionate. Secrets and lies hidden under untold truths. Crazy depths in character we haven't even cracked the surface of and a unknown future.
It takes serious talent to have me feeling all kinds of fucked up and still has me wanting more despite it not normally being something I'm interested in.
I'm going to leave it here for now and maybe pop back when I've re-read and have more to add or make more sense of it all.
May 19, 2022
Awful Curse is the first book within the Celestial Bodies series. This was honestly never on my radar until a day ago and I actually ended up enjoying this one.
From the very beginning, I was definitely hooked on our main girl Arianna. The whole school, and her life, were so freaking mysterious. Then some of the kids could potentially be gods or demigods? Well, yeah, it was way too easy for me to devour this.
Back to Arianna, she's your typically bad girl who is constantly moving to a new place. Her dad is definitely absent from her life and that made me pretty sad. So, when she walks into this new school all she wants to do is leave. Well, she did until she met Bolton and his groups of friends. Highly mysterious, covered in dark secrets, and have unique birthmarks or tattoos. They may or may not resemble a zodiac sign or something else.
The pace of this was a big slow for most of this book. Not exactly sure when things started to pick up but when they did - dang. I couldn't flip the pages fast enough and I'm still not over how this all ended. Betrayals, secrets, and all the twists gave me whiplash. I seriously need to know what is going to happen next for everyone.
In the end, I don't care about any other book until I dive into the sequel. Sorry, not sorry.
From the very beginning, I was definitely hooked on our main girl Arianna. The whole school, and her life, were so freaking mysterious. Then some of the kids could potentially be gods or demigods? Well, yeah, it was way too easy for me to devour this.
Back to Arianna, she's your typically bad girl who is constantly moving to a new place. Her dad is definitely absent from her life and that made me pretty sad. So, when she walks into this new school all she wants to do is leave. Well, she did until she met Bolton and his groups of friends. Highly mysterious, covered in dark secrets, and have unique birthmarks or tattoos. They may or may not resemble a zodiac sign or something else.
The pace of this was a big slow for most of this book. Not exactly sure when things started to pick up but when they did - dang. I couldn't flip the pages fast enough and I'm still not over how this all ended. Betrayals, secrets, and all the twists gave me whiplash. I seriously need to know what is going to happen next for everyone.
In the end, I don't care about any other book until I dive into the sequel. Sorry, not sorry.
March 16, 2020
I wasn't 100% sure what to expect with Awful Curse, just that it had a paranormal aspect to the novel and was set in a college environment and considered a potential bully romance. The book starts with our main character Arianna moving to a new school - Arcadia Prep as she fell into trouble with the mayor's son at her old school. This according to her father is a final resort as he is off on another top-secret military mission. Ever since her mother died, Ari has been feeling unsettled and moving from one place to another. When she arrives at Arcadia Prep, she feels a magnetic electric pull to a group of kids that look like the popular crowd and their leader Bolton who is King of the School. The paranormal aspect enters the novel when we learn that the group of kids are in fact Gods and Goddesses and each represents a sign on the astrology chart and have been stuck on fourteen-year cycles awaiting the one who separated from the twelve and can break their curses and let them return home to Olympus. Every year a new student begins and they hope that is the one they are looking for but each time it turns out they are wrong. What will happen though when all the signs point to Arianna? Are they certain this time or is it another mistake? When it comes to the crunch - will everyone be excited to return home or are they happy being on earth? Overall this was a good read, a bit slow in places and I was hoping that it would be a stand-alone and was looking forward to a different ending . I am in two minds, however, whether or not I will be continuing the series but for a first book Awful Curse by Elena Monroe was a good read filled with twists and turns.
May 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It's got tons of potential, but it left me with many questions. That being said, I hope to get more answers in the next book.
The characters are children of gods trapped in Arcadia, which is a boarding school. They navigate life for 14 years, repeating their senior year trying to find one person who can free them... all so that they can return home. Sounds simple enough? It's not. They've sacrificed the lives of innocents after thinking and hoping and being so sure they are the one they've been searching for.
When Ari gets there, they want to be sure. They are jaded and they feel trapped. There is something different about Ari though. Even when Bolton tries to keep her down, she rises up and doesn't break.
As the time of sacrifice gets closer, things get more tense. It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. So much happens!
I am so looking forward to reading what happens next. And hopefully getting many more answers to the qiestions.
The characters are children of gods trapped in Arcadia, which is a boarding school. They navigate life for 14 years, repeating their senior year trying to find one person who can free them... all so that they can return home. Sounds simple enough? It's not. They've sacrificed the lives of innocents after thinking and hoping and being so sure they are the one they've been searching for.
When Ari gets there, they want to be sure. They are jaded and they feel trapped. There is something different about Ari though. Even when Bolton tries to keep her down, she rises up and doesn't break.
As the time of sacrifice gets closer, things get more tense. It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. So much happens!
I am so looking forward to reading what happens next. And hopefully getting many more answers to the qiestions.
February 23, 2020
Wow firstly what did i just read!!!
Anyone that really knows me knows i haven't read a paranormal book in many years but damm did the cover draw me in and so glad it did. This book took me to another word of Gods demigods. I really didn't know how this book would go with me as last time i tried reading a paranormal i ended up not finishing it as i just couldn't do it , but i really didnt have that problem with this one loved it cannot wait for the next one .
Anyone that really knows me knows i haven't read a paranormal book in many years but damm did the cover draw me in and so glad it did. This book took me to another word of Gods demigods. I really didn't know how this book would go with me as last time i tried reading a paranormal i ended up not finishing it as i just couldn't do it , but i really didnt have that problem with this one loved it cannot wait for the next one .
April 28, 2020
this was my first Elena Monroe book and it was definitely different from what i usually read but it was good. this story was one roller coaster ride and i couldn't get enough of it.
the characters mesh well together and once you get started you can't help but be pulled into these characters. the steam was off the charts and i loved every minute of this!
this was definitely an interesting read for me and i'm glad i read this!
i'd definitely recommend this!
the characters mesh well together and once you get started you can't help but be pulled into these characters. the steam was off the charts and i loved every minute of this!
this was definitely an interesting read for me and i'm glad i read this!
i'd definitely recommend this!
February 27, 2020
Awful Curse
4 stars
WAIT WAIT WAIT. HOLD UP. What was that ending? How is it okay to end a book like that and expect us to be fine?!?!
I don’t know what I’m supposed to be thinking or how I’m supposed to feel....
I’ve been majorly anticipating this title not just because I love all of Elena’s works but also this just sounded so fucking good. And in terms of concept, the world, the characters it was very intriguing, I did really enjoy that aspect of it. I think Elena writes really unique and amazing characters you can’t even begin to get enough of.
In terms of writing, it was great but it’s just... Elena has a very distinct writing style, it’s very telling and direct and it usually works for first person point of views because we get a lot of the characters generalizing their personalities and stating facts about themselves. I do like it, it’s very unique and refreshing to read because it adds layers of confidence and depth to our main characters. However, it also tends to be a bit vague and while I love it for all her contemporary works for an urban fantasy romance it added a bit of confusion for me personally.
It did add to the mystery aspect of figuring out who Arianna and the other characters are but for the most part it left me struggling to understand the world and the way the ‘magic’ is developed. And usually I would be patient and feel like it’ll all be revealed in due time but the more I got into it the more confused I got. I mean...it was to a point where I struggled to pick it up because I was so confused on what was going on. For the world in itself, the romance I obviously got *wink wink*.
But as more is revealed the farther along we got in the novel, the more it started to click in my head and the more amazed I was. ‘Awful Curse’ is the urban fantasy that I NEEDED. I mean Greek mythology paired with astrological concepts and a fucking banging enemies to lovers that had me feeling all the tension and frustration and literally dying with anticipation. Elena never disappoints with her angsty romances and I CANNOT wait for the sequel. I highly HIGHLY recommend this book if you’re looking for all the angst, suspense, and betrayal at its finest.
4 stars
WAIT WAIT WAIT. HOLD UP. What was that ending? How is it okay to end a book like that and expect us to be fine?!?!
I don’t know what I’m supposed to be thinking or how I’m supposed to feel....
I’ve been majorly anticipating this title not just because I love all of Elena’s works but also this just sounded so fucking good. And in terms of concept, the world, the characters it was very intriguing, I did really enjoy that aspect of it. I think Elena writes really unique and amazing characters you can’t even begin to get enough of.
In terms of writing, it was great but it’s just... Elena has a very distinct writing style, it’s very telling and direct and it usually works for first person point of views because we get a lot of the characters generalizing their personalities and stating facts about themselves. I do like it, it’s very unique and refreshing to read because it adds layers of confidence and depth to our main characters. However, it also tends to be a bit vague and while I love it for all her contemporary works for an urban fantasy romance it added a bit of confusion for me personally.
It did add to the mystery aspect of figuring out who Arianna and the other characters are but for the most part it left me struggling to understand the world and the way the ‘magic’ is developed. And usually I would be patient and feel like it’ll all be revealed in due time but the more I got into it the more confused I got. I mean...it was to a point where I struggled to pick it up because I was so confused on what was going on. For the world in itself, the romance I obviously got *wink wink*.
But as more is revealed the farther along we got in the novel, the more it started to click in my head and the more amazed I was. ‘Awful Curse’ is the urban fantasy that I NEEDED. I mean Greek mythology paired with astrological concepts and a fucking banging enemies to lovers that had me feeling all the tension and frustration and literally dying with anticipation. Elena never disappoints with her angsty romances and I CANNOT wait for the sequel. I highly HIGHLY recommend this book if you’re looking for all the angst, suspense, and betrayal at its finest.
March 13, 2020
That was a mix of so many cool stuff not done right xD
February 23, 2020
I am reeling from this book right now.
I was graciously provided an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The only reason this was not a five star rating was because there were frequent moments in this book that seemed muddled. Like I couldn't follow because of gaps in the story. But honestly, even that wasn't enough for me not to LOVE this book. Like, A LOT!
*********UPDATE**********
February 23, 2020
I reread the first half of this book in bits and pieces and have since realized that it all makes sense to me after reading it to completion. I don’t want to take this section of out my original review because it’s important to me that you know that if you’re confused like I was, try going back. So, while I didn’t want to remove the previous paragraph from my review, I did change my rating because this book was SO FREAKING GOOD!
*****************************
We have troubled rebel Arianna, who is shipped from school to school for a mix of daddy being in the military and getting her bum kicked out from causing trouble. She uses sarcasm as a mask to hide any of her insecurities. When she winds up in Seattle, in a boarding school called Arcadia Prep, she is anything but happy.
Used to being the new kid, she has concrete walls built around herself that are hard to penetrate. She meets the "it group" at the school - the elite group of kids that rule the school so to speak. What I loved about the dynamic of this group, whom we later learn is so much more than a group of hormonal teens, is that they aren't all friends, but a group made of circumstance. They have a secret and Arianna is pulled into their strange world. They aren't really who they say they are and the more she learns, the less she understands. But one thing is certain: Bolton is their king. He is cold and mean, and she is drawn to him, while hating him at the same time. Every king needs his queen. Is she who they have been waiting for? Is she going to help free them from their teenage prison?
And I haven't even touched on the other people in this group - the circle. One word for you: NYX!! Let me fan myself for a moment... But, if I divulge too much I will have to put a disclaimer for spoilers. We don't want that... But, really, folks... Nyx! I need more of him!
This book was a ride for sure! Full of Greek mythological lore, this had me engaged the entire time. I love anything to do with Greek gods and astrological signs. If you are a fan of either, as well as romance, enemies to lovers, secrets, boarding school setting, SECRETS (I know I mentioned that already - for good reason), then this is a book for you. AND THAT ENDING?!?!?!? I need more!
I was graciously provided an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The only reason this was not a five star rating was because there were frequent moments in this book that seemed muddled. Like I couldn't follow because of gaps in the story. But honestly, even that wasn't enough for me not to LOVE this book. Like, A LOT!
*********UPDATE**********
February 23, 2020
I reread the first half of this book in bits and pieces and have since realized that it all makes sense to me after reading it to completion. I don’t want to take this section of out my original review because it’s important to me that you know that if you’re confused like I was, try going back. So, while I didn’t want to remove the previous paragraph from my review, I did change my rating because this book was SO FREAKING GOOD!
*****************************
We have troubled rebel Arianna, who is shipped from school to school for a mix of daddy being in the military and getting her bum kicked out from causing trouble. She uses sarcasm as a mask to hide any of her insecurities. When she winds up in Seattle, in a boarding school called Arcadia Prep, she is anything but happy.
Used to being the new kid, she has concrete walls built around herself that are hard to penetrate. She meets the "it group" at the school - the elite group of kids that rule the school so to speak. What I loved about the dynamic of this group, whom we later learn is so much more than a group of hormonal teens, is that they aren't all friends, but a group made of circumstance. They have a secret and Arianna is pulled into their strange world. They aren't really who they say they are and the more she learns, the less she understands. But one thing is certain: Bolton is their king. He is cold and mean, and she is drawn to him, while hating him at the same time. Every king needs his queen. Is she who they have been waiting for? Is she going to help free them from their teenage prison?
And I haven't even touched on the other people in this group - the circle. One word for you: NYX!! Let me fan myself for a moment... But, if I divulge too much I will have to put a disclaimer for spoilers. We don't want that... But, really, folks... Nyx! I need more of him!
This book was a ride for sure! Full of Greek mythological lore, this had me engaged the entire time. I love anything to do with Greek gods and astrological signs. If you are a fan of either, as well as romance, enemies to lovers, secrets, boarding school setting, SECRETS (I know I mentioned that already - for good reason), then this is a book for you. AND THAT ENDING?!?!?!? I need more!
February 21, 2020
3.5stars! First of all....can we get a round of applause plus a standing ovation?! Because that cover is incredible! If that alone doesn't want to make you one-click, then consider an eye exam. That aside, Elena Monroe delivers an exciting and captivating new world in Awful Curse!
I loved the main characters, as well as each additional POV from side characters! Monroe pens a strong and badass heroine in Ari, and a magnetic hero in Bolton. The concept was really interesting, and I was drawn in by the mystery and intrigue infused into the story. I love PNR and fantasy, and will read anything Greek related! I did hope for a bit more polish and depth from developmental editing. I was struck by a few plot holes, misinformation, etc. Overall I enjoyed Awful Curse, and will consider reading more books in the series!
I loved the main characters, as well as each additional POV from side characters! Monroe pens a strong and badass heroine in Ari, and a magnetic hero in Bolton. The concept was really interesting, and I was drawn in by the mystery and intrigue infused into the story. I love PNR and fantasy, and will read anything Greek related! I did hope for a bit more polish and depth from developmental editing. I was struck by a few plot holes, misinformation, etc. Overall I enjoyed Awful Curse, and will consider reading more books in the series!
February 28, 2020
ARC PROVIDED FOR A HONEST REVIEW
CLIFFHANGER WARNING
“Because I'm king, they won't disobey me, and you're mine.”
Okay so when I first got this book I was a little reluctant, with the whole fantasy aspect. But omg once I started reading, I literally devoured it. I just wanted to know everything, I couldn’t wait to go to the next page and GET SOME FUCKING ANSWERS!
Arcadia Preparatory School for the forgotten, left behind, and otherwise independent. It is also a school with zodiac gods, blending in with humans. Arianna has recently joined Arcadia prep as a senior. She is used to being the new girl as her dad is in the army because of that she gets passed on from one relative to another, thus leading her to start over in different schools again and again. Since her mom died Ari has been chasing danger, she has been suspended so many times from her previous school but she took thinks too far during her last school, which landed her getting expelled. Which is why she s now at a boarding school, Arcadia Prep.
There we meet Bolton and the rest of the crew, who have been waiting for “the one” since the past 14 years to come and complete their circle so that they can finally be able to go home. Is Arianna the one? Or is she just pretending? And if she is “the one”, then who is she exactly? What is her role in this?
Welcome to the word of myths, zodiac gods, special abilities, hot brooding hero and a feisty heroine.
PS: Arianna our MG is a WILD CAT with purple hair and personally my favorite character in this book, Bolton is not far behind. But Ari, is just a bad ass. She is a born Queen, she didn’t even have to fight for the crown when she joined the school she just walked into a party, climbed on top of Bolton (our king), making his lap her throne and claimed her king and throne.
I NEED THE SECOND BOOK
CLIFFHANGER WARNING
“Because I'm king, they won't disobey me, and you're mine.”
Okay so when I first got this book I was a little reluctant, with the whole fantasy aspect. But omg once I started reading, I literally devoured it. I just wanted to know everything, I couldn’t wait to go to the next page and GET SOME FUCKING ANSWERS!
Arcadia Preparatory School for the forgotten, left behind, and otherwise independent. It is also a school with zodiac gods, blending in with humans. Arianna has recently joined Arcadia prep as a senior. She is used to being the new girl as her dad is in the army because of that she gets passed on from one relative to another, thus leading her to start over in different schools again and again. Since her mom died Ari has been chasing danger, she has been suspended so many times from her previous school but she took thinks too far during her last school, which landed her getting expelled. Which is why she s now at a boarding school, Arcadia Prep.
There we meet Bolton and the rest of the crew, who have been waiting for “the one” since the past 14 years to come and complete their circle so that they can finally be able to go home. Is Arianna the one? Or is she just pretending? And if she is “the one”, then who is she exactly? What is her role in this?
Welcome to the word of myths, zodiac gods, special abilities, hot brooding hero and a feisty heroine.
PS: Arianna our MG is a WILD CAT with purple hair and personally my favorite character in this book, Bolton is not far behind. But Ari, is just a bad ass. She is a born Queen, she didn’t even have to fight for the crown when she joined the school she just walked into a party, climbed on top of Bolton (our king), making his lap her throne and claimed her king and throne.
I NEED THE SECOND BOOK
February 24, 2020
"Why would a king fight a knight?"
I've been stewing on this review for a while because I just didn't have the words to explain my thoughts on how absolutely incredible this book is.
I recieved an ARC in exchange for an honest review and upon starting, I initially thought to myself "is this for me?" And by around 4% of the book, I was intrigued by this strange sizzle with Austin...by 6% I was hooked. What was Boltons issue?! Why did he react that way? As if the same thing happened to that particular set of friends over and over again?
First impression of Arianna is she is an obvious troublemaker...don't we all love one of those. We meet 12 senior friends who she immediately befriends and King Bolton of course and all seems normal...until dun dun dunnnn, you'll have to download the book to know what happens next.
Bolton drew my attention the most, as I'm sure he was intended to because of his attitude towards Arianna, that is until he gets to know the bittersweet sagittarius. The plot was consistent throughout and the use of historic events in the journals drew me in for sure. It was impossible to put down and downright alluring. Death, romance, astrology and mystical creatures...what more could we ask for? I can't wait to read more of the Celestial Bodies Series. Amazing Elena.
I've been stewing on this review for a while because I just didn't have the words to explain my thoughts on how absolutely incredible this book is.
I recieved an ARC in exchange for an honest review and upon starting, I initially thought to myself "is this for me?" And by around 4% of the book, I was intrigued by this strange sizzle with Austin...by 6% I was hooked. What was Boltons issue?! Why did he react that way? As if the same thing happened to that particular set of friends over and over again?
First impression of Arianna is she is an obvious troublemaker...don't we all love one of those. We meet 12 senior friends who she immediately befriends and King Bolton of course and all seems normal...until dun dun dunnnn, you'll have to download the book to know what happens next.
Bolton drew my attention the most, as I'm sure he was intended to because of his attitude towards Arianna, that is until he gets to know the bittersweet sagittarius. The plot was consistent throughout and the use of historic events in the journals drew me in for sure. It was impossible to put down and downright alluring. Death, romance, astrology and mystical creatures...what more could we ask for? I can't wait to read more of the Celestial Bodies Series. Amazing Elena.
April 17, 2020
I have mixed feelings about the book. It’s been a couple of days since I finished it and still, I can’t decide how to express my thoughts.
At first, I was confused; I didn’t really understand what was going on. I still don’t understand some things. Chapter by chapter, I began to grasp the background story and started enjoying the book.
The concept of the story is pretty unique; I don’t think that I’ve read anything similar. I’m a Greek, so the whole Greek mythology aspect is close to what I grew up with. That was one of my favorite parts of the plot.
“You can’t just storm the castle, demand a crown, and sit on the King like a throne.”
The other thing that I enjoyed was Arianna’s personality. She’s a strong character, with a no bullshit attitude. She’s been getting in trouble since her mother died. Is her own way to suppress the feelings inside. Bolton is an asshole to her from day 1, but she doesn’t cower; she’s fighting back. These two have a love/hate relationship and it’s really intriguing. It was good to see her grow into her real self.
The story is far from over and I’m left with more questions than answers. I’ll be waiting for the next book. Hopefully, I’ll get my answers and I’ll be able to understand more of what happened.
At first, I was confused; I didn’t really understand what was going on. I still don’t understand some things. Chapter by chapter, I began to grasp the background story and started enjoying the book.
The concept of the story is pretty unique; I don’t think that I’ve read anything similar. I’m a Greek, so the whole Greek mythology aspect is close to what I grew up with. That was one of my favorite parts of the plot.
“You can’t just storm the castle, demand a crown, and sit on the King like a throne.”
The other thing that I enjoyed was Arianna’s personality. She’s a strong character, with a no bullshit attitude. She’s been getting in trouble since her mother died. Is her own way to suppress the feelings inside. Bolton is an asshole to her from day 1, but she doesn’t cower; she’s fighting back. These two have a love/hate relationship and it’s really intriguing. It was good to see her grow into her real self.
The story is far from over and I’m left with more questions than answers. I’ll be waiting for the next book. Hopefully, I’ll get my answers and I’ll be able to understand more of what happened.
Want to read
May 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/22/2020)! 🎁
March 7, 2020
4.5 stars.
This book was just awesome. Such a unique story. Descriptive without being OTT. Suspenseful without the cheesy clues. Sexy without being drawn out or forced.
This book was definitely more fantasy than romance. The complexities of the interactions between all the characters was exhausting to read...which just means Elena Monroe knocked this out of the park. I can just imagine how her story notes looked trying to keep the names, signs, personalities, and roles in order.
I mean, Gods/Goddesses, Zodiac signs, strange powers. SO DAMN COOL!!
Kudos to you, Elena Monroe!
Let's just say I cant wait to read more. That cliffhanger killed me.
February 28, 2020
I liked the idea of Awful Curse. I love mythology, Greek myths are one of my favorite things to read about, and the setting and everything was intriguing.
"He was an enigma wrapped up in beauty and pain."
But I was never fully able to connect to the characters. I liked Bolton and Arianna, but I always felt distant from them. I wasn't able to connect with them. I found myself losing interest while reading and not wanting to pick it back up because I just couldn't ever fully connect with these characters.
There were a few plot holes that had me confused as well while reading, and they very well may have been left open for future books, I don't know, but it was kind of off putting not being able to understand some things fully.
"Hating him, while my body craved him, was going to be the best challenge i ever took on."
Overall, Awful Curse was okay. I just feel like I personally didn't jive and connect with the story and characters. I liked her writing, that wasn't a problem, but I personally just didn't connect with this story like I expected to.
And that's okay. Not every book is going to be for everyone. I also seem to be one of the few who didn't connect.
"Why else did I wear sarcasm so well? Because if no one cares, at least it's funny."
"He was an enigma wrapped up in beauty and pain."
But I was never fully able to connect to the characters. I liked Bolton and Arianna, but I always felt distant from them. I wasn't able to connect with them. I found myself losing interest while reading and not wanting to pick it back up because I just couldn't ever fully connect with these characters.
There were a few plot holes that had me confused as well while reading, and they very well may have been left open for future books, I don't know, but it was kind of off putting not being able to understand some things fully.
"Hating him, while my body craved him, was going to be the best challenge i ever took on."
Overall, Awful Curse was okay. I just feel like I personally didn't jive and connect with the story and characters. I liked her writing, that wasn't a problem, but I personally just didn't connect with this story like I expected to.
And that's okay. Not every book is going to be for everyone. I also seem to be one of the few who didn't connect.
"Why else did I wear sarcasm so well? Because if no one cares, at least it's funny."
February 22, 2020
Awful Curse by Elena Munroe is an exciting and original book in the new Celestial Bodies series. The book’s main character Arianna is new to school…again. Being a military brat, she has been moved numerous amounts of times and she is hoping that this one may be her last, if only she can stay out of trouble. After living with a foster aunt and being moved for breaking and entering, her military dad ships her off to Arcadia Prep. A school which is a bit different from the others and comes across more like a prison. Once you enter, you can’t escape. Once there, she meets the King of Arcadia Prep, Bolton.
Not everything is what it seems with Bolton and his crew (no spoilers!) and soon Arianna finds herself emerged in a twisted game in which she doesn’t know the rules whilst trying to overcome her frenemies feelings for Bolton.
The relationship between Bolton and Arianna is really interesting in this book. Not only is it steamy but it is full of almost cruelty and hate, especially from Bolton’s side. Once you get more into the story, you find out why he is the way he is and how his time at Arcadia Prep has affected him and his posse. There constantly seems to be a fight between the two on who is stronger, the king or the queen, and it takes both characters a long time to realise that they are stronger together than they are apart.
Arianna is a great character, purple haired, bad ass and full of sass. The writer tries really hard to give you a rounded picture of her and what makes her the person she is. The backstory to Arianna is quite sad and you tend to see the vulnerability underneath, especially when she is by herself.
This story has so many twists and turns as well as additional stories by other characters which all weaves together. If you like angst, drama, steaminess, a dash of paranormal and amazing characters, then this is the book for you! A really good start to a series!
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Not everything is what it seems with Bolton and his crew (no spoilers!) and soon Arianna finds herself emerged in a twisted game in which she doesn’t know the rules whilst trying to overcome her frenemies feelings for Bolton.
The relationship between Bolton and Arianna is really interesting in this book. Not only is it steamy but it is full of almost cruelty and hate, especially from Bolton’s side. Once you get more into the story, you find out why he is the way he is and how his time at Arcadia Prep has affected him and his posse. There constantly seems to be a fight between the two on who is stronger, the king or the queen, and it takes both characters a long time to realise that they are stronger together than they are apart.
Arianna is a great character, purple haired, bad ass and full of sass. The writer tries really hard to give you a rounded picture of her and what makes her the person she is. The backstory to Arianna is quite sad and you tend to see the vulnerability underneath, especially when she is by herself.
This story has so many twists and turns as well as additional stories by other characters which all weaves together. If you like angst, drama, steaminess, a dash of paranormal and amazing characters, then this is the book for you! A really good start to a series!
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: https://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
February 21, 2020
"This was all written in the stars....this was the calm, and she was my storm, lightning and all."
This is an outstanding one, well-plotted urban fantasy – can I say “fairytale” for me?! - full of vivid characters and magical world/ancient gods and co-existing with the contemporary.
"Because I'm king, they won't disobey me, and you're mine."
- I am more than human, I am almost god, I have a gift, I have a curse – my name is Bolton. Stuck in Arcadia Prep, the Pandora’s box, waiting for the one to set me free… girl with purple hair and white Doc Martens, a tough heroine with self-confidence and skills to save herself -
“…she was half goddess, but I couldn't forget she was always half hell. My own personal hell."
Elena Monroe brings us the best of two worlds – a complex story in our contemporary society with the feast of magic. The way she writes, the way she keeps you between reality and fantasy – this unique storytelling - the way she expresses herself - it’s pure magic. If you want to read urban fantasy with some serious depth, I can’t recommend this book enough.
“His lips were mine.. His body was mine… His crown was…. mine.”
This is an outstanding one, well-plotted urban fantasy – can I say “fairytale” for me?! - full of vivid characters and magical world/ancient gods and co-existing with the contemporary.
"Because I'm king, they won't disobey me, and you're mine."
- I am more than human, I am almost god, I have a gift, I have a curse – my name is Bolton. Stuck in Arcadia Prep, the Pandora’s box, waiting for the one to set me free… girl with purple hair and white Doc Martens, a tough heroine with self-confidence and skills to save herself -
“…she was half goddess, but I couldn't forget she was always half hell. My own personal hell."
Elena Monroe brings us the best of two worlds – a complex story in our contemporary society with the feast of magic. The way she writes, the way she keeps you between reality and fantasy – this unique storytelling - the way she expresses herself - it’s pure magic. If you want to read urban fantasy with some serious depth, I can’t recommend this book enough.
“His lips were mine.. His body was mine… His crown was…. mine.”
May 23, 2020
Man, I'm so sad. The concept for this series sounded so good! I loved the idea of mixing a typical new adult setting with a paranormal storyline inspired by Greek mythology. It's a rare combo I don't think I've seen before.
Right away I could tell the writing wasn't going to mesh with me. The sentences were structured strangely and I kept getting tripped up and had to reread paragraphs. I don't know why I pushed myself to continue. I guess I hoped the story would be worth it even if the writing was weird. Spoiler alert: it wasn't.
90% of my thoughts while reading were basically:
What the fuck?
That makes no sense.
What is this writing?
I hate everyone.
Is this ever gonna be over?
Shut the fuck up about that crown.
The characters were terrible. I hated every single one of them, hence the I hate everyone comment. Also, the book is in serious need of more editing. There were grammar and spelling errors galore, and entire sentences that made zero sense.
Le sigh. One of these days I'm going to accept it's okay to not finish a book.
Right away I could tell the writing wasn't going to mesh with me. The sentences were structured strangely and I kept getting tripped up and had to reread paragraphs. I don't know why I pushed myself to continue. I guess I hoped the story would be worth it even if the writing was weird. Spoiler alert: it wasn't.
90% of my thoughts while reading were basically:
What the fuck?
That makes no sense.
What is this writing?
I hate everyone.
Is this ever gonna be over?
Shut the fuck up about that crown.
The characters were terrible. I hated every single one of them, hence the I hate everyone comment. Also, the book is in serious need of more editing. There were grammar and spelling errors galore, and entire sentences that made zero sense.
Le sigh. One of these days I'm going to accept it's okay to not finish a book.
May 3, 2020
This book is like a failed attempt at mixing high school romance and paranormal mystery. The premise was interesting but the execution was sorely lacking. There was poor world-building and character development; I had so many questions about the plot holes and situations that didn't make sense or seemed highly unrealistic. Additionally, there were so many typos and grammar mistakes that made reading this such a pain in the ass.
May 12, 2020
Only made it halfway through. I couldn't stand to see crown, king, or queen written one more time. It got to the point that I didnt care what they were.
December 21, 2020
Actually hated this book. The writing was terrible to the point that it wasn't even proper english and the actual story was so bladly explained I couldnt make sense of it.
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