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A Curse of Hope and Shadows, Parts 2 & 3
"You have ensnared my soul, and you are welcome to it."
Reunited after two long years apart, Dimitri and Adeline are overjoyed to be together again. But they are still no closer to finding a way through the responsibilities and constraints that surround them both. Meanwhile, there’s civil unrest in the south, and Dimitri’s cousin, the newly-crowned King Alexei, believes war might be on the horizon.
Although the curse is broken, Adeline soon finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love, and Dimitri finds himself facing the reality of the fortune-teller’s warning… “Your love for her will crumble houses.”
Reunited after two long years apart, Dimitri and Adeline are overjoyed to be together again. But they are still no closer to finding a way through the responsibilities and constraints that surround them both. Meanwhile, there’s civil unrest in the south, and Dimitri’s cousin, the newly-crowned King Alexei, believes war might be on the horizon.
Although the curse is broken, Adeline soon finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love, and Dimitri finds himself facing the reality of the fortune-teller’s warning… “Your love for her will crumble houses.”
464 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2022
4 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Macdonald
37 books462 followersKatherine "Kate" Macdonald writes the books she wishes she could have read more of as a teen—stories of fierce girls and gentle boys, of romance and adventure, and where the "three Cs" (chemistry, communication and consent) reign supreme. There may still be a little bit of miscommunication along the way as the characters grow as people, but she tries not to rely on that trope too much!
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
She loves books packed with witty banter, stories where you can feel the love growing between a pair, that include excellent, well-developed side-characters and a few subtly-foreshadowed twists and turns. She despises toxic relationships and tales that rely on old-fashioned notions of male and female stereotypes. She enjoys bending expectations and crafting worlds where sexism is a thing of the past. She considers herself an LGBTQIA+ friendly author, and her stories include a range of characters from within the community and absolutely no discrimination in sight.
She holds a BA in English and Creative Writing from Lancaster University, and a PGCE in teaching English and Drama from the University of Exeter. She's been a writer since she was old enough to hold a crayon, but it was only after surviving a year of parenthood and a full-time job on less than six hours of sleep a night that she finally gained the courage to publish her debut novel, "The Rose and the Thorn." It's a retelling of Beauty and the Beast inspired by a dream of a girl surrounded by snow in a field of flowers.
At her heart, Macdonald is storyteller, and it is her dream to inspire others in the way that she has been inspired.
She lives in Devon with her manic child and well-behaved cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 8, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
Author, you vex me! I both love and hate what you put me through in this book! I’m starting to think I should be used to it by now! But my heart is never ready.
The amount of times I wanted to jump into these pages and seriously assault someone is not healthy. But it’s a testament to how Kate makes you feel things!
Dmitri and Adeline struggle so much but the utter depth of their love for each other is intoxicating. I’d love to be a fly on the wall as they confess their love to each other.
You’ll feel things with this book. Enjoy the ride.
Author, you vex me! I both love and hate what you put me through in this book! I’m starting to think I should be used to it by now! But my heart is never ready.
The amount of times I wanted to jump into these pages and seriously assault someone is not healthy. But it’s a testament to how Kate makes you feel things!
Dmitri and Adeline struggle so much but the utter depth of their love for each other is intoxicating. I’d love to be a fly on the wall as they confess their love to each other.
You’ll feel things with this book. Enjoy the ride.
October 29, 2022
The first book in this series was amazing. Heartwarming. Heartbreaking. Everything at once. It was a book about love in all its many forms and shapes. Since it was quite clear that the love story didn't have a clear end yet I was really excited about the next book in the series. Especially because I had grown so attached to the characters that I really wanted a happy ending for them. I was therefore really happy when BookSprout notified me that the arc for this book was available.
And what a beautiful, once more heartwarming and heartbreaking, book is this! The love between all the characters, whether it's romantic love, parental love, sibling love or friendship love, is so prominent, so vital, so pure and honest and real. In a lot of ways most of these characters allow their hearts to make the choices. That's not always the best choice and not always the easiest and sometimes not the most save choice either.
I also really loved the politics in this book. Especially because it got incredibly complicated and even more because we grew attached to characters on both sides, which made it hard to root for one party and easy to understand both parties. I also really liked how eventually everything we learned about the characters, who they are, what they want and where they come from, is part of the final solution. It's all about the right people finding the right words and ways.
And last but not least: the characters in this book are absolutely amazing! It's so easy to grow attached to them, to care about them and to root for them. And this is absolutely not the kind of series where characters are safe because they are important. More than once I really had to swallow the tears away and more than once I really wondered if this book would get some sort of happy ending. And I can say: Yes, I eventually did close the book with a satisfied smile on my face.
And what a beautiful, once more heartwarming and heartbreaking, book is this! The love between all the characters, whether it's romantic love, parental love, sibling love or friendship love, is so prominent, so vital, so pure and honest and real. In a lot of ways most of these characters allow their hearts to make the choices. That's not always the best choice and not always the easiest and sometimes not the most save choice either.
I also really loved the politics in this book. Especially because it got incredibly complicated and even more because we grew attached to characters on both sides, which made it hard to root for one party and easy to understand both parties. I also really liked how eventually everything we learned about the characters, who they are, what they want and where they come from, is part of the final solution. It's all about the right people finding the right words and ways.
And last but not least: the characters in this book are absolutely amazing! It's so easy to grow attached to them, to care about them and to root for them. And this is absolutely not the kind of series where characters are safe because they are important. More than once I really had to swallow the tears away and more than once I really wondered if this book would get some sort of happy ending. And I can say: Yes, I eventually did close the book with a satisfied smile on my face.
October 29, 2022
This book utterly destroyed me. Katherine MacDonald is both Satan and the soothing balm I yearn for. She packs on the romance only to turn around and stab you in the back with drama. I both hate her and love her for it.
The characters were so, so, sweet. Some of my all-time favorites. They are so likable and you just can’t help rooting for them! This whole thing was poetry whispered to my heart.
I really enjoyed getting to see more about other characters as well. There was a lot packed in there and even some from other’s POV!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters were so, so, sweet. Some of my all-time favorites. They are so likable and you just can’t help rooting for them! This whole thing was poetry whispered to my heart.
I really enjoyed getting to see more about other characters as well. There was a lot packed in there and even some from other’s POV!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2022
Can I give more than 5 stars? I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of this book, and let me tell you: it. is. incredible.
Part one is an absolute favorite of mine. Parts two and three blow it out of the water, adding even more of a roller coaster of feelings, adventure, and romance to this epic tale. Though a significant amount of time has passed from the end of the last book to the start of this one, it picks up seamlessly, and instantly pulls you in. The romance between Adeline and Dimitri is poignant, sweet, devastating, and uplifting, in turn. And the added romance in this one between Elliott and Thomas adds a layer of emotion that magnifies the impact of the book. You will think of these characters after you’ve finished reading—it’s impossible to forget them.
I love many of Kate’s books, but A Curse of Hope and Shadows is dearest to my heart. A stunning read that will hurt and heal, and leave readers feeling they understand love just a bit more than they did before reading, this book is a must-read.
Part one is an absolute favorite of mine. Parts two and three blow it out of the water, adding even more of a roller coaster of feelings, adventure, and romance to this epic tale. Though a significant amount of time has passed from the end of the last book to the start of this one, it picks up seamlessly, and instantly pulls you in. The romance between Adeline and Dimitri is poignant, sweet, devastating, and uplifting, in turn. And the added romance in this one between Elliott and Thomas adds a layer of emotion that magnifies the impact of the book. You will think of these characters after you’ve finished reading—it’s impossible to forget them.
I love many of Kate’s books, but A Curse of Hope and Shadows is dearest to my heart. A stunning read that will hurt and heal, and leave readers feeling they understand love just a bit more than they did before reading, this book is a must-read.
November 22, 2022
And once again Macdonald has successfully ripped out my heart, jammed it back in, ripped it out again, ground it under her heel, then replaced the tattered remains back into my gaping chest cavity with a gentle pat of the hand and whispered “There now, see? That didn’t hurt at all, did it?” And I sat here and took it, and what’s more - I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
I loved part 1 of this story and looked forward to the continuation. However, I really had no idea how she was going to achieve the same feels given how in love our MCs were at the end of the first book. The build up was over, and Macdonald is kinda known for her slow burn build. So what now? How could she possibly torture me to the same extent as before?
Well, she did and it was gorgeous.
Read the damn book. It’s fantastic.
Read
October 15, 2022Bring your tissues for this one---this is without a doubt the saddest book I've ever written! But don't worry, it still ends the way you want/expect, and I promise the pain is worth it. This book explores the devastating effects of grief in a way I've not really done before, and I'm really pleased with the way it's portrayed in the first part of the second half, but, fair warning, it does HURT. It hurt to write, and, according to my beta readers, it really hurt to read.
You'll be very, very glad I decided to publish this as a single volume rather than two separate parts, trust me! For those that like to know about length, part 2 is around 60k and part 3 50k---a bit too short to justify separate volumes in my humble opinion, but still very much their own separate books.
I'm really happy with the conclusion of Adeline and Dimitri's tale, and also happy that Elliott Elsing, Adeline's younger, sunshiney brother, also gets his chance to tell his tale! (and romance)
I hope you find solace in the ending.
You'll be very, very glad I decided to publish this as a single volume rather than two separate parts, trust me! For those that like to know about length, part 2 is around 60k and part 3 50k---a bit too short to justify separate volumes in my humble opinion, but still very much their own separate books.
I'm really happy with the conclusion of Adeline and Dimitri's tale, and also happy that Elliott Elsing, Adeline's younger, sunshiney brother, also gets his chance to tell his tale! (and romance)
I hope you find solace in the ending.
February 16, 2023
398 pages and I devoured it in one sitting. If that doesn’t convey how much I adored this book (and this series) I honestly don’t know what will. The romance, the heartache, ALL OF IT. *chef’s kiss*
October 31, 2022
I received an ARC in return for my honest review.
I’ve been waiting for the conclusion of this lovely story of love and triumph , and it didn’t disappoint.
It’s a true love story with vivid characters that you can’t help but care about, and one you’ll simply despise…… you’ll recognise him immediately!
It’s a gentle flowing story that refuses to let you go, and I know it will continue to make me smile, every time I think of it.
This Writer really has a wonderful talent for storytelling.
Thank you Katherine.
❤️🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I’ve been waiting for the conclusion of this lovely story of love and triumph , and it didn’t disappoint.
It’s a true love story with vivid characters that you can’t help but care about, and one you’ll simply despise…… you’ll recognise him immediately!
It’s a gentle flowing story that refuses to let you go, and I know it will continue to make me smile, every time I think of it.
This Writer really has a wonderful talent for storytelling.
Thank you Katherine.
❤️🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 14, 2022
"𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒓𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒔."
GASP... I just realized I haven't written a review for these yet! (bad Jess, very bad)
I had the pleasure to beta-read this book for Kate, let me tell you: All aboard the whump-train!
No, seriously. This book is brilliant. As always, Kate's writing is the perfect mix of lyrical and poetic, while being easy on the eyes and mind (says the non-native speaker). The pacing is excellent, so that you just fly through the pages without any sense of time. The book is also the perfect combination of happy moments and an absolute whump fest, topped by a beautiful HEA. There were several moments where I couldn't NOT cry, and I normally don't do that (books-that-made-me-cry-count: 5+1). The ending could've been a bit more bittersweet for my taste, but I'm a sadist in that regard. 😬 Still, it has one of the greatest finish lines I've ever read! Bravo 👏
Now to conclude my review with one of my favourite quotes from the final novels:
"𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑰 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
Perfect for fans of
🗝️ Grumpy/Sunshine
🗝️ Master/Servant
🗝️ Regency England/Pride & Prejudice vibes
🗝️ Found family
🗝️ Whump (like, A LOT)
🗝️ Guy falls first
🗝️ Mutual pining
🏳️🌈 F/F and M/M representation
GASP... I just realized I haven't written a review for these yet! (bad Jess, very bad)
I had the pleasure to beta-read this book for Kate, let me tell you: All aboard the whump-train!
No, seriously. This book is brilliant. As always, Kate's writing is the perfect mix of lyrical and poetic, while being easy on the eyes and mind (says the non-native speaker). The pacing is excellent, so that you just fly through the pages without any sense of time. The book is also the perfect combination of happy moments and an absolute whump fest, topped by a beautiful HEA. There were several moments where I couldn't NOT cry, and I normally don't do that (books-that-made-me-cry-count: 5+1). The ending could've been a bit more bittersweet for my taste, but I'm a sadist in that regard. 😬 Still, it has one of the greatest finish lines I've ever read! Bravo 👏
Now to conclude my review with one of my favourite quotes from the final novels:
"𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏. 𝑰 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
Perfect for fans of
🗝️ Grumpy/Sunshine
🗝️ Master/Servant
🗝️ Regency England/Pride & Prejudice vibes
🗝️ Found family
🗝️ Whump (like, A LOT)
🗝️ Guy falls first
🗝️ Mutual pining
🏳️🌈 F/F and M/M representation
October 17, 2022
A Curse of Hope and Shadows Part One broke me but Part 2 and 3 took those broken pieces and stomped on them, set them on fire, and then slowly stitched them back together again.
Very rarely am I tempted to message an author and scream about a plot before I’ve finished a book but this is exactly what happened as I read this story. Thank goodness Macdonald put both parts together or I might have lost my mind.
But all emotions aside, this book is a beautiful tie up to Dimitri and Adeline’s story, and I loved getting to know more about Elliot as well.
Macdonald writes with her usual gorgeous prose, dragging me into the world of her characters and making me feel everything they are experiencing.
This is another favorite of mine and I highly recommend this series to any fans of romance!
*I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
Very rarely am I tempted to message an author and scream about a plot before I’ve finished a book but this is exactly what happened as I read this story. Thank goodness Macdonald put both parts together or I might have lost my mind.
But all emotions aside, this book is a beautiful tie up to Dimitri and Adeline’s story, and I loved getting to know more about Elliot as well.
Macdonald writes with her usual gorgeous prose, dragging me into the world of her characters and making me feel everything they are experiencing.
This is another favorite of mine and I highly recommend this series to any fans of romance!
*I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and this is my honest, voluntary review.*
October 12, 2022
Part 1 of this series wowed me, but parts 2 and 3 sent me over the moon. Such a moving book as only can be written by Katherine Macdonald. This author never ceases to amaze me with her writing.
October 8, 2022
This book was absolutely brilliant, but you will be paying for my therapy bill Kate. It was quite the roller coaster of emotions
November 19, 2022
I read part 1 quite awhile ago when it was being released by Katherine, and I fell in love with the story and the characters. Psst... to be honest, I am a fan of ALL Beauty and the Beast stories, but some just take me to a place of true bliss.
This one is the biggest love so far for me. The story has everything you never knew you needed. Strife, love, loss, finding that the loss might not have been, war, family, deceit, and so much more.
I can't say enough how much you need to read Part 1 if you haven't already and move onto Parts 2 and 3 in this volume. It is a long one, but it is so worth it. The ending was all I wanted and more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This one is the biggest love so far for me. The story has everything you never knew you needed. Strife, love, loss, finding that the loss might not have been, war, family, deceit, and so much more.
I can't say enough how much you need to read Part 1 if you haven't already and move onto Parts 2 and 3 in this volume. It is a long one, but it is so worth it. The ending was all I wanted and more!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🌶 out of 5
🥀Beauty and the Beast x Downton Abbey
❤️🩹Hurt/Scars/Comfort/Healing
🫂Close Proximity
👿Grumpy X Sunshine
❤️🔥Slow Burn
⚔️Revolution
✨️Review:
So this was one of Katherine's other stellar Beauty and the Beast inspired retellings BUT it's so much more than that! Separated into three "acts" (and 2 books), this is an evolutionary fable-tinged story, with each act having a distinct focus. It's brilliant in how they weave and build on the initial story in book 1. This is 760 pages and I read it in two days, that's how amazing this is!
Each act deepens the drama, heightens the stakes and took me by surprise with its immerssive storytelling. The first act is our beauty and the beast meets Downton Abbey angst-filled goodness! We have our broody young lord, Dimitri, who's been hidden away with his pain and curse for 5 years. And the kindly, smart and spitfire home nurse that comes to care for him, Adeline, is the one woman who gets to know the man behind the Beast. I LOVED this slow burn. The fact that we get some brutal scenes (his transformations and chronic pains are truly heartbreaking and I relished the detail).
There was a grounded reality to his physical affliction...and I applaud that we see him go to emotionally dark places too. This man is put through the ringer. But he's so incredibly sweet and so strong and resilient.
Book 2 is two years later and focused more on the couple in the aftermath of book one's conclusion with his curse...this book is more regency focused with Dimitri and Adeline working on a way to be together amidst a rising Revolution.
Our final act is full of suspense, a monarchy in trouble and Dimetri's life in peril, and a hard earned happy ending finally obtained! I have so much I love about this epic drama, it is wholly orginal and allowed such exploration of the human condition. This is an endgame fairy tale couple! I love Demitri especially with all my heart. The tender moments, the loneliness, his insecurities, fears, the pain his mind and body goes through are staggering. This story is full of heart just like him, and Katherine is a queen of literature for me!
🌶 out of 5
🥀Beauty and the Beast x Downton Abbey
❤️🩹Hurt/Scars/Comfort/Healing
🫂Close Proximity
👿Grumpy X Sunshine
❤️🔥Slow Burn
⚔️Revolution
✨️Review:
So this was one of Katherine's other stellar Beauty and the Beast inspired retellings BUT it's so much more than that! Separated into three "acts" (and 2 books), this is an evolutionary fable-tinged story, with each act having a distinct focus. It's brilliant in how they weave and build on the initial story in book 1. This is 760 pages and I read it in two days, that's how amazing this is!
Each act deepens the drama, heightens the stakes and took me by surprise with its immerssive storytelling. The first act is our beauty and the beast meets Downton Abbey angst-filled goodness! We have our broody young lord, Dimitri, who's been hidden away with his pain and curse for 5 years. And the kindly, smart and spitfire home nurse that comes to care for him, Adeline, is the one woman who gets to know the man behind the Beast. I LOVED this slow burn. The fact that we get some brutal scenes (his transformations and chronic pains are truly heartbreaking and I relished the detail).
There was a grounded reality to his physical affliction...and I applaud that we see him go to emotionally dark places too. This man is put through the ringer. But he's so incredibly sweet and so strong and resilient.
Book 2 is two years later and focused more on the couple in the aftermath of book one's conclusion with his curse...this book is more regency focused with Dimitri and Adeline working on a way to be together amidst a rising Revolution.
Our final act is full of suspense, a monarchy in trouble and Dimetri's life in peril, and a hard earned happy ending finally obtained! I have so much I love about this epic drama, it is wholly orginal and allowed such exploration of the human condition. This is an endgame fairy tale couple! I love Demitri especially with all my heart. The tender moments, the loneliness, his insecurities, fears, the pain his mind and body goes through are staggering. This story is full of heart just like him, and Katherine is a queen of literature for me!
October 25, 2022
3.5 stars
I don't know how to start this review. I enjoyed reading this story but not in the way I thought I would.
I was expecting to really like the characters and the love story, and not much care for the rest of the plot. Instead, I trully liked reading about the world and what was happening (and how things were resolved) but was not really taken with Adeline and Dimitri (I loved them so much when I first read Part 1 - see my review from then and some thoughts after re-reading right here -, but not too much upon re-reading and I felt the same way about them during these second and third parts).
I felt the look at people and war was very well done. The way people think, and act, and react, and forgive was very well represented. The way war destroys everyone and there's not necessarily all bad and all good people on either side also felt very true.
I also really enjoyed the depiction of Adeline's family and how they deal with, and live, and love each other. So true and lovely, while being so real. Also, Leonie is great and I wpuld read a whole book about her!
What I didn't enjoy that much (and I don't really understand why - because I usually like this) was the relationship between Dimitri and Adeline. It felt over the top and too dramatic for much of the time, and I just couldn't get on board with how how dramatic they were about loving each other. Am no great fan of lovers connected by destiny, feeling like no choice was made because it simply had to be that way, so maybe that's why it didn't work for me. I really wish it did. Oh well, what can I do *shrug*
All in all, I enjoyed this book for most of its aspects but for its main one. It was a surprise for sure, but I'm not disappointed, because I truly had a great experience with everything else. I do think the love story will work for most people so don't let my review deter you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I don't know how to start this review. I enjoyed reading this story but not in the way I thought I would.
I was expecting to really like the characters and the love story, and not much care for the rest of the plot. Instead, I trully liked reading about the world and what was happening (and how things were resolved) but was not really taken with Adeline and Dimitri (I loved them so much when I first read Part 1 - see my review from then and some thoughts after re-reading right here -, but not too much upon re-reading and I felt the same way about them during these second and third parts).
I felt the look at people and war was very well done. The way people think, and act, and react, and forgive was very well represented. The way war destroys everyone and there's not necessarily all bad and all good people on either side also felt very true.
I also really enjoyed the depiction of Adeline's family and how they deal with, and live, and love each other. So true and lovely, while being so real. Also, Leonie is great and I wpuld read a whole book about her!
What I didn't enjoy that much (and I don't really understand why - because I usually like this) was the relationship between Dimitri and Adeline. It felt over the top and too dramatic for much of the time, and I just couldn't get on board with how how dramatic they were about loving each other. Am no great fan of lovers connected by destiny, feeling like no choice was made because it simply had to be that way, so maybe that's why it didn't work for me. I really wish it did. Oh well, what can I do *shrug*
All in all, I enjoyed this book for most of its aspects but for its main one. It was a surprise for sure, but I'm not disappointed, because I truly had a great experience with everything else. I do think the love story will work for most people so don't let my review deter you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2023
Just as it was with the first part, I loved this book. With part two and three, the author brought this story to so many new levels! The world has expanded with new places, sceneries and relationships. The range of emotions throughout the chapters is definitely much greater than in part one; from true happiness and relief, through falling in love and desperation, all the way to heart-breaking scenes and grief. It’s all there!
There are also a lot of new plots added in part two and three (or some plots are being made more prominent than they were in book 1), of which the greatest is the society clash (rich vs poor). I really enjoyed that part and its impact on the storyline. I really liked how the author combined many perspectives on this topic as well as how it added to the main characters.
The last thing that I will mention (to avoid spoilers!) is the author’s wonderful style of plotting in the ordinary parts of life which often get missed in stories. From many moments of that nature written across pages (like simple sewing clothes or playing with children) my favourite subplot/scene was pregnancy and delivery scene. Everything about this was so real and beautiful without “making” it beautiful. While it’s hard to describe it in the review (again, to avoid spoilers), I can just say that the scenes related to this plot were so amazingly realistic.
I highly recommend “A Curse of Hope and Shadows” to readers enjoying fairy tale retellings and/or those looking for a slow burn romance. And of course, if you’ve read part one, part two and three should be next on your must read list!
There are also a lot of new plots added in part two and three (or some plots are being made more prominent than they were in book 1), of which the greatest is the society clash (rich vs poor). I really enjoyed that part and its impact on the storyline. I really liked how the author combined many perspectives on this topic as well as how it added to the main characters.
The last thing that I will mention (to avoid spoilers!) is the author’s wonderful style of plotting in the ordinary parts of life which often get missed in stories. From many moments of that nature written across pages (like simple sewing clothes or playing with children) my favourite subplot/scene was pregnancy and delivery scene. Everything about this was so real and beautiful without “making” it beautiful. While it’s hard to describe it in the review (again, to avoid spoilers), I can just say that the scenes related to this plot were so amazingly realistic.
I highly recommend “A Curse of Hope and Shadows” to readers enjoying fairy tale retellings and/or those looking for a slow burn romance. And of course, if you’ve read part one, part two and three should be next on your must read list!
October 24, 2022
We met Dmitri and Adeline in ACOHAS Part 1 - you'll need to read that book first before starting here as it's a huge piece of the story - and they are two souls from different worlds that are destined to be together. They have a gorgeous, yet difficult love story. Both have suffered immensely and deserve what they find in each other.
I will say I enjoyed part 1 more than these 2 installments as I loved the fairytale retelling aspect of Beauty and the Beast. That storyline is over after Part 1 and Parts 2/3 are more of a political struggle based plot. It's still beautifully written with wonderful characters, and contains lots of action and drama.
The winner for me in this story was the relationship between Elliott and Thomas. It was such a nice addition and gave us an addition couple to root for since Dmitri and Adeline already had their "falling" moment in Part 1. I adored these two - Elliott is the sweetest character who is just filled with so much good. He deserved something good in his life so it was lovely to watch his journey with Thomas!
This is an emotional read so buckle up before you start. Lots of twists and turns and changes in plot that you won't predict. And a special mention to the lovely epilogue - K Macdonald gives good there and let's us see years in to the future which I always adore. Overall a 4/5 star read for me!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I will say I enjoyed part 1 more than these 2 installments as I loved the fairytale retelling aspect of Beauty and the Beast. That storyline is over after Part 1 and Parts 2/3 are more of a political struggle based plot. It's still beautifully written with wonderful characters, and contains lots of action and drama.
The winner for me in this story was the relationship between Elliott and Thomas. It was such a nice addition and gave us an addition couple to root for since Dmitri and Adeline already had their "falling" moment in Part 1. I adored these two - Elliott is the sweetest character who is just filled with so much good. He deserved something good in his life so it was lovely to watch his journey with Thomas!
This is an emotional read so buckle up before you start. Lots of twists and turns and changes in plot that you won't predict. And a special mention to the lovely epilogue - K Macdonald gives good there and let's us see years in to the future which I always adore. Overall a 4/5 star read for me!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2022
A massive THANK YOU to Kate for graciously giving us Part 2 AND Part 3 in one book instead of making us wait and agonize over how the series would conclude! There were lots of twists and turns I was not expecting. In some books you can quickly call where the tale is going, but with this one, I couldn't which made it hard to put down and unique.
The reason why I gave it 4 stars: I really enjoyed Part 1 and the dynamic of the relationship growing over time. Personally, Part 2 and 3 didn't stand up to the greatness of the first one. It's probably because I'm heartless; there was just too much romance/pinning for/"you're the only one for me" talk in Part 2. I missed the more fulfilling talk of the first book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The reason why I gave it 4 stars: I really enjoyed Part 1 and the dynamic of the relationship growing over time. Personally, Part 2 and 3 didn't stand up to the greatness of the first one. It's probably because I'm heartless; there was just too much romance/pinning for/"you're the only one for me" talk in Part 2. I missed the more fulfilling talk of the first book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2022
A beautiful second part and conclusion to this imaginative Beauty and the Beast retelling, all the hallmarks of the original fairytale are clearly there with the additional characters fleshing out the story and fitting in well with the original narrative. I especially enjoyed the tender romance between Elliot and Thomas.
The world building is well done, the characters are vibrant and well thought out and the plot develops and flows at a good pace.
There was probably a bit too much romance for me, which is probably a silly thing to say considering the topic, but there you go; and a good amount of action and a sprinkling of magic kept me going.
...and I do love that there are happy endings for everyone.
I received this book as ARC copy free from the author and am leaving this review of my own volition.
The world building is well done, the characters are vibrant and well thought out and the plot develops and flows at a good pace.
There was probably a bit too much romance for me, which is probably a silly thing to say considering the topic, but there you go; and a good amount of action and a sprinkling of magic kept me going.
...and I do love that there are happy endings for everyone.
I received this book as ARC copy free from the author and am leaving this review of my own volition.
March 3, 2023
I can't quite put my finger on why this book did not have the same magic as the first for me. It had all the makings of a great book- starcrossed lovers, death, deception, revolution, etc.. But I found myself pretty done with it by the end. I think the last 10% I started flipping pages.
I think that the war and its completion felt rushed with little detail. For instance, where was the royal army? We heard about them like.. once, and didn't hear from them again. How did the resistance gain so much power? I also did not feel that the agreement in the end made much sense. Did I like the agreement that was made? Yes. Do I believe for a second that it would go as smoothly as it did? No.
There was a LOT going on, but little detail given. I think putting 2 books in one was a mistake.
It was good, but I would not reread.
I think that the war and its completion felt rushed with little detail. For instance, where was the royal army? We heard about them like.. once, and didn't hear from them again. How did the resistance gain so much power? I also did not feel that the agreement in the end made much sense. Did I like the agreement that was made? Yes. Do I believe for a second that it would go as smoothly as it did? No.
There was a LOT going on, but little detail given. I think putting 2 books in one was a mistake.
It was good, but I would not reread.
October 29, 2022
A curse of hope and shadow part 2 and 3 by Katherine Mcdonald.
Book 2 of A Curse of Hope and Shadows.
Reunited after two long years apart, Dimitri and Adeline are overjoyed to be together again. But they are still no closer to finding a way through the responsibilities and constraints that surround them both.Meanwhile, there’s civil unrest in the south, and Dimitri’s cousin, the newly-crowned King Alexei, believes war might be on the horizon.Although the curse is broken, Adeline soon finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love, and Dimitri finds himself facing the reality of the fortune-teller’s warning…
Great read. Loved this retelling. 4*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book 2 of A Curse of Hope and Shadows.
Reunited after two long years apart, Dimitri and Adeline are overjoyed to be together again. But they are still no closer to finding a way through the responsibilities and constraints that surround them both.Meanwhile, there’s civil unrest in the south, and Dimitri’s cousin, the newly-crowned King Alexei, believes war might be on the horizon.Although the curse is broken, Adeline soon finds herself wondering how much she is willing to sacrifice for love, and Dimitri finds himself facing the reality of the fortune-teller’s warning…
Great read. Loved this retelling. 4*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2024
Katherine Macdonald has done it again! Even though this one was a fairytale retelling like her other books, this one felt quite different. There wasn't as much action, fighting, or sword-wielding - especially by a feisty female MC - but nothing about it was boring or slow. Lots of suspense, secrets unfolding, and twists that make you want to cry and tear at your hair, and then she'll turn around and leave you laughing and swooning! Adeline and Dimitri were incredible, and I absolutely loved all the side characters. Minty and Leonie were probably my favorites. I'll be anxious to pick up another of Macdonald's books soon!
October 22, 2022
What a journey this book was ! I completely fell in love with Adeline and Dimitri during part 1 of this series, so I was very excited to read what would happen next. Honestly, I'm glad that part 2 and 3 were put in a single volume, because waiting for part 3 would have been pure torture. I loved the book, I'm still in love with Adeline and Dimitri, but this new volume completely took me by surprise with... Elliot Elsing ! I didn't expect to be so hooked on his side of the story, but I have to say, he almost stole the show for me, haha.
October 21, 2022
OMG! this book nearly emotionally devastated me. I loved how we Adeline and Dmitri’s love came together and the kindling relationship between Elliott and Thomas. If you are looking for a story that took you deep into the depth of story world, so deep you loose track of time and tissues this book is for you. I love Katherine MacDonald’s writing and this book goes beyond that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2022
I couldn’t have imagined a better ending to Dimitri and Adeline’s if I tried. I found myself saying ‘one more chapter’ more often than not. I cried when Dimitri died. I cried when Thomas ran. I smiled when Adeline and Dimitri were reunited. The emotion conveyed in these characters is downright sinful. I would recommend this to nearly everybody.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2022
this does what I was hoping for in the next entry in the Curse of Hope and Shadows series. It had the same magic that I had enjoyed from Katherine Macdonald's previous work. I enjoyed the way this was written and really enjoyed what was going on.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2022
The story of Dimitri and Adeline comes to its end in an amazing display of aristocratic democracy to support their love for each other and their country. All through the twists and turns in this fascinating tale, love does, indeed conquer all. Truly a page turner, one hard to put down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2022
I enjoyed this book, it was a great conclusion that left on the edge of my seat. Bring tissues, you are going to need them because I was sobbing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2023
I got to the end and while it was heartwarming and lovely, I almost wanted certain people to stay dead and other things to happen? But I get it. And I did still enjoy the story. I guess I just wish that the themes of grief and heartbreak had been explored more but then I’m a cynic so 🤷🏻♀️
November 6, 2022
Review to come!
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