REVIEW
The Conjurer’s Curse (Monarch: 2022) by Stephanie Cotta is an epic fantasy set in the fictional world of Mestria. We follow seventeen-year-old Rowan as he struggles with his history and searches for answers.
Rowan is an outsider in his village. For the thirteen years since his arrival to Karahvel, his albino skin and unusual marking on his neck have caused him to be viewed as cursed by the superstitious villagers. His “curse,” however, is evidenced by the mysterious deaths of his three previous guardian mothers; beginning with the first woman who took him in after his birth mother abandoned him. Even Rowan begins to worry that the rumors are true, and when his fourth guardian mother suddenly passes, Rowan is banished from his village. He must embark on a long journey to discover who cursed him and defeat them before his curse has the chance to kill anyone else.
I am relatively new to reading fantasy, and this book was a wonderful introduction to the genre. What first struck me about The Conjurer’s Curse was the unique concept. I was immediately interested in seeing how things would play out, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. The worldbuilding and realistic, fictitious geography made Mestria intricate and well thought out. As Rowan struggles to find where he belongs, you are taken on an adventure through multiple landscapes. This includes a trip across the sea, through the jungle, and into the mountains of The Iron Kingdom.
Rowan’s story is an exciting and heartbreaking one yet filled with hope, and within the first chapter, he is on his journey. Many beautiful and important lessons can be learned from reading The Conjurer’s Curse, such as not judging others unfairly and the importance of community and friendship.
I believe everyone can relate in some way to Rowan’s feeling like an outsider. “Outsider. Rowan hated that word. All his life, he heard it whispered as a reminder of how different he was from everyone in Karahvel.”
On top of that, every character has realistic struggles, making them relatable. I flew through this book and was sad when the adventure was over. I immediately wanted more. I can’t wait to read the upcoming books in the IRON KINGDOM series! I would recommend The Conjurer’s Curse to any fantasy fan, or anyone in search of a gripping story with a strong plot and strong characters.
THE NEXT BOOK IS OUT!
GIVEAWAY
Georgie Bartlett is a teen living in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina with her family and two mischievous rescue dogs. She enjoys writing, crocheting, journaling, gardening, playing the drums, and above all, reading.
10 comments:
Happy New Year and thanks for the great review!
Thank you, Valinora. I think this book is right up your alley!
Sounds like a compelling ride. I had not heard of this series so thanks for the introduction. No need to include me in the e-book giveaway. I am backlogged in that format. Have a Happy MMGM!
Thanks for your comments today, Greg!
I'm glad this book made you realize that you enjoy fantasy. This one sounds like it has great worldbuilding. I have to pass on the giveaway because my TBR list is too long right now.
Thanks, Natalie. I understand a long TBR list!
Wonderful review. Lucky you to have so many helpers, Carol. I will pass on the giveaway. Thanks for the post.
Sounds like an intriguing book. I wasn't drawn to the cover, but the summary sounds more promising! I'll enter the drawing, if I'm not too late :)
Thanks for your comment, Rebecca. Unfortunately, I already picked a winner. I hope you decide to read it though!
Happy New Year, Ms. Valinora! Thank you for your comment— I do appreciate it!
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