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Bound by Curses
*See all the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae Collection HERE.*
A looming curse. The threat of war. A fake marriage.
Princess Karalyn of the Fairies has always hated Prince Harald of the Sea since the day he left her to drown.
Perhaps, though, the fate of the six kingdoms would not hang in the balance if she had died. Seers have started to whisper of a curse linked to Karalyn. Somehow, she is bound to destroy the magic of the fairies and perhaps even that of the entire world.
When the Kingdoms of the Skies attempts to assassinate Karalyn, she knows she must make a desperate ploy to protect herself—a fake marriage to none other than Prince Harald who might be cursed as well�
This enemies to lovers fantasy romance featuring a fake marriage will keep you reading all night long.
Bound By Curses is the book 6 in the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae Collection. These books are all standalones written by your favorite fantasy authors and are the perfect read for your summer vacation. Prepare to be swept away into magical worlds with tropes you obsess over and swoon-worthy romance.
A looming curse. The threat of war. A fake marriage.
Princess Karalyn of the Fairies has always hated Prince Harald of the Sea since the day he left her to drown.
Perhaps, though, the fate of the six kingdoms would not hang in the balance if she had died. Seers have started to whisper of a curse linked to Karalyn. Somehow, she is bound to destroy the magic of the fairies and perhaps even that of the entire world.
When the Kingdoms of the Skies attempts to assassinate Karalyn, she knows she must make a desperate ploy to protect herself—a fake marriage to none other than Prince Harald who might be cursed as well�
This enemies to lovers fantasy romance featuring a fake marriage will keep you reading all night long.
Bound By Curses is the book 6 in the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae Collection. These books are all standalones written by your favorite fantasy authors and are the perfect read for your summer vacation. Prepare to be swept away into magical worlds with tropes you obsess over and swoon-worthy romance.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2023
64 people are currently reading
1,264 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Zoltack
337books1,130followersNicole Zoltack is a USA Today bestselling author who loves to write romances. Of course. She did marry her first kiss, after all!
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now!
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
July 10, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
This just wasn’t my cup of tea. It felt a bit unfinished and the ending came out of nowhere. I was legit confused and wondered if I missed something..
the banter felt immature and a little cringey.
Example:
One of the grooms friends made a fart joke at the Royal fake fairy wedding while the vows were being exchanged.. and everyone laughed. But I didn’t.
I didn’t like any of the characters and seemed like a lot of plot holes. And useless info.. also missing info.. 😬
I did like the fairy nature magic and all the different mythical creatures. Seemed like a cool world.
But the rest of it was just kinda.. meh.
This just wasn’t my cup of tea. It felt a bit unfinished and the ending came out of nowhere. I was legit confused and wondered if I missed something..
the banter felt immature and a little cringey.
Example:
One of the grooms friends made a fart joke at the Royal fake fairy wedding while the vows were being exchanged.. and everyone laughed. But I didn’t.
I didn’t like any of the characters and seemed like a lot of plot holes. And useless info.. also missing info.. 😬
I did like the fairy nature magic and all the different mythical creatures. Seemed like a cool world.
But the rest of it was just kinda.. meh.
May 20, 2024
Another great intro to romantasy genre for anyone who likes high adventure, low spice.
July 22, 2023
It’s a cute fast read enjoyable and fun
July 7, 2023
Marriage of Necessity
Magical world of fairies, sea raiders, shifters and more. An enemies to lovers novella where the FMC and MMC literally h8ted each other for a vast majority of the book but while joining together in a marriage of convenience they fell in love.
The story was "ok" but not great. Too many unknowns. What was the curse? Why was the FMC cursed? Why was the MMC cursed? How could their curses be broken. The story went from them loathing each other then to professing their love for one another in the last chapter.
Magical world of fairies, sea raiders, shifters and more. An enemies to lovers novella where the FMC and MMC literally h8ted each other for a vast majority of the book but while joining together in a marriage of convenience they fell in love.
The story was "ok" but not great. Too many unknowns. What was the curse? Why was the FMC cursed? Why was the MMC cursed? How could their curses be broken. The story went from them loathing each other then to professing their love for one another in the last chapter.
July 13, 2023
� I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review �
� 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 �
Karalyn - I enjoyed her character. She was a young, strong lady with a big soul and always ready to help everyone no matter their race and that was such an amazing thing.
Harald - Can't say I was a big fan of him, I found him to be a bit too smug even in his conversations with other characters I couldn't actually find his warmth or anything, not compared to Karalyn, he was definitely different than Karalyn and sometimes their banter was coming out more as insults to me. So yeah, sadly he wasn't my fave character even tho he is the MMC. But I did enjoy the rest of the characters a lot and they were a nice addition to the story.
� 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 �
The world-building was so magical, out of a fairytale. It played so nicely on my imagination and made me feel transported into the story. Feeling the warmth, the water, and everything in between has been such a great experience.
� 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 �
I loved the world-building, it was amazing, so detailed, so full of color and smells and everything you can imagine. I've also enjoyed almost all the characters, and loved the friendship between Karalyn and Eliana they were so great together!
� 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW �
The only TW that I can think of is fighting, fire, and killing another character in the story but the scenes related to this aren't overly descriptive to be big triggers - I didn't get triggered tho. The romance is clean, there's no kissing only mention of it towards the end of the story.
Follow me on my bookventure:
Always open to read and review more books🠇
� 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 �
Karalyn - I enjoyed her character. She was a young, strong lady with a big soul and always ready to help everyone no matter their race and that was such an amazing thing.
Harald - Can't say I was a big fan of him, I found him to be a bit too smug even in his conversations with other characters I couldn't actually find his warmth or anything, not compared to Karalyn, he was definitely different than Karalyn and sometimes their banter was coming out more as insults to me. So yeah, sadly he wasn't my fave character even tho he is the MMC. But I did enjoy the rest of the characters a lot and they were a nice addition to the story.
� 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 �
The world-building was so magical, out of a fairytale. It played so nicely on my imagination and made me feel transported into the story. Feeling the warmth, the water, and everything in between has been such a great experience.
� 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝/𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐝 �
I loved the world-building, it was amazing, so detailed, so full of color and smells and everything you can imagine. I've also enjoyed almost all the characters, and loved the friendship between Karalyn and Eliana they were so great together!
One thing that made the story be a bit difficult for me was the conversations, I felt the characters kind of had the same voice and sometimes it made it hard to decipher who's reading now because there was no uniqueness in their way of speech.
Another thing that I've enjoyed was the grief of Harald's dad, how raw and true that was portrayed in the story - even tho it was sad to listen to his feelings, it was such a pure emotional moment.
The relationship however between Karalyn and Harald I felt it to be a bit rushed, and not quite that amazing enemies to lovers where you can feel their tension like "I hate you but I love you" kind of deal, their relationship took pace towards the end of the story instead of building up to that moment. But overall the story has been enjoyable and I've had a blast reading it and the uniqueness about them being bound by a curse.
� 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞/TW �
The only TW that I can think of is fighting, fire, and killing another character in the story but the scenes related to this aren't overly descriptive to be big triggers - I didn't get triggered tho. The romance is clean, there's no kissing only mention of it towards the end of the story.
Follow me on my bookventure:
Always open to read and review more books🠇
July 6, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4/5 STARS
This is one of eleven novellas in The Starry Kingdoms of the Fae series written by different indie authors. They are all stand alones and can be read in any order.
You need to know that this is a novella. It is meant to be a short story where the pace is fast and there isn’t a lot of in depth description of characters and world building. Yes, there will be unanswered questions and plot holes to get you to read other books by the author. I personally love novellas because they give you a taste of the author’s writing style and you can read them in one to two sittings.
This is a fake marriage between a princess of the sky and a prince of the sea to thwart a curse. It is a clean enemies to lovers, cute fantasy romance. I liked the idea of the curses and wanted to learn more about it. I will check out this author’s back list.
Thank you to Nicole for the ARC! 🧜♀️🧚♀�
4/5 STARS
This is one of eleven novellas in The Starry Kingdoms of the Fae series written by different indie authors. They are all stand alones and can be read in any order.
You need to know that this is a novella. It is meant to be a short story where the pace is fast and there isn’t a lot of in depth description of characters and world building. Yes, there will be unanswered questions and plot holes to get you to read other books by the author. I personally love novellas because they give you a taste of the author’s writing style and you can read them in one to two sittings.
This is a fake marriage between a princess of the sky and a prince of the sea to thwart a curse. It is a clean enemies to lovers, cute fantasy romance. I liked the idea of the curses and wanted to learn more about it. I will check out this author’s back list.
Thank you to Nicole for the ARC! 🧜♀️🧚♀�
June 14, 2023
Another great fantasy book read in one go. I loved the story of the different kingdoms. For a shorter book I still felt that it was not rushed and the story was well developed. A fun read with enemies to lovers and plenty of action and mystery. A great read that any fantasy lover would enjoy.
I received this as an ARC and all opinions are my own.
I received this as an ARC and all opinions are my own.
June 17, 2023
I finished it a few days ago, but couldn’t review immediately, so here’s my review.
This was a relatively easy book to read, like I finished it in a couple hours only. Story wise, it was easy to follow the plot and it was interesting enough. But while it was good, it wasn’t fully finished in my opinion. I felt when I read the first half that okay, how is Nicole going to tie up every loose ends now? Because there was a whole story left and knowing it was a rather short book, I really did worry about tying up ends and all. And while the ending did happened and a HEA, I felt as if it didn’t fold up everything. For instance Harald’s curse. What was it? Because it could be dismissed if it wasn’t used as a leverage in their banter or given any importance but it was. Was it being crowned king officially? Or his marriage because they fell in love and that’s a whole other matter I’ll get into. So what was that? And what was up with the seers? The other kingdoms?? Did they truly align because of the prophecy? Because it felt so rash. And what about the secondary characters? It felt as if something was going on, but was never covered. It felt as if too many storylines got mixed in and then because it was a small book, many were missed or something. Or perhaps maybe Nicole is working on another series right after this one??
Now the romance. I know this was a clean romance, but still it felt short. The starting of their meeting was good. They had good banter filled chemistry. And I enjoyed it. But when they continued their hate banter a couple chapters till the end, I was confused. Because apparently they do fall in love at the end and tell it to the other. But how?? How did that happen? There wasn’t even a slight indication. Yes if I look into every single of their interaction deeply and fully, maybe I’ll find the stubborn feelings that accompany enemies to lovers story. But I didn’t. Or rather there weren’t those stubborn-refuse-to-see-the-feelings in them. Outside, if someone read this not really looking for a story and for a HEA, this would be perfect. And I really liked it, but for me The love came out of nowhere. Yes I believe if it was a longer, fleshed out book, then they would’ve fallen in love.
The book wasn’t bad. It had so so much potential. It still has. In my opinion, if you read this on a surface level, where you want enemies who banter, a fake marriage and fantasy bits, but not a deep book, this one is just for you! But for me while good, had many plot holes and sudden feelings, which I think could be made better if a follow up series comes up, with a little Harald and Karalyn moments to show their true feelings.
Thank you Nicole for the ARC opportunity!
This was a relatively easy book to read, like I finished it in a couple hours only. Story wise, it was easy to follow the plot and it was interesting enough. But while it was good, it wasn’t fully finished in my opinion. I felt when I read the first half that okay, how is Nicole going to tie up every loose ends now? Because there was a whole story left and knowing it was a rather short book, I really did worry about tying up ends and all. And while the ending did happened and a HEA, I felt as if it didn’t fold up everything. For instance Harald’s curse. What was it? Because it could be dismissed if it wasn’t used as a leverage in their banter or given any importance but it was. Was it being crowned king officially? Or his marriage because they fell in love and that’s a whole other matter I’ll get into. So what was that? And what was up with the seers? The other kingdoms?? Did they truly align because of the prophecy? Because it felt so rash. And what about the secondary characters? It felt as if something was going on, but was never covered. It felt as if too many storylines got mixed in and then because it was a small book, many were missed or something. Or perhaps maybe Nicole is working on another series right after this one??
Now the romance. I know this was a clean romance, but still it felt short. The starting of their meeting was good. They had good banter filled chemistry. And I enjoyed it. But when they continued their hate banter a couple chapters till the end, I was confused. Because apparently they do fall in love at the end and tell it to the other. But how?? How did that happen? There wasn’t even a slight indication. Yes if I look into every single of their interaction deeply and fully, maybe I’ll find the stubborn feelings that accompany enemies to lovers story. But I didn’t. Or rather there weren’t those stubborn-refuse-to-see-the-feelings in them. Outside, if someone read this not really looking for a story and for a HEA, this would be perfect. And I really liked it, but for me The love came out of nowhere. Yes I believe if it was a longer, fleshed out book, then they would’ve fallen in love.
The book wasn’t bad. It had so so much potential. It still has. In my opinion, if you read this on a surface level, where you want enemies who banter, a fake marriage and fantasy bits, but not a deep book, this one is just for you! But for me while good, had many plot holes and sudden feelings, which I think could be made better if a follow up series comes up, with a little Harald and Karalyn moments to show their true feelings.
Thank you Nicole for the ARC opportunity!
July 1, 2023
Arc reader
(plot points mentioned below, possible spoilers warning)
I want to note that even though I rated this 2 stars, it's my own personal opinion. Reading this, I can see how others will enjoy it immensely. It just wasn't for me. Some books that I rate low I can't imagine how anyone could possibly enjoy it, this one however I can see the joy it will give to others who will read it.
That being said,
I think the battle and what led up to it was the strongest section of the book. I think it kept the most interest. I also enjoy the world, the different kingdoms that evolved from humans, and the sea raiders who mostly resemble humans but have their own magic to them. I wish to see more lore of the world since it felt like the strongest part of the book, I want to know more about the seers and the kingdoms and the alliances between them.
I wasn't big on the writing at times and didn't like many of the characters until the end when one of them (Herald) became a little more tolerable. I felt a lot of the characters hated everyone else who wasn't them, hated every other race, hated those who had to walk because they had no wings, etc. Eliana was the only exception, but she didn't have a major role in the story.
Lastly, I think the romance was very rushed
in the last chapter, it was a fast-paced book so I understand things need to be fast and a lot needs to be crammed in for it to stay a standalone but more romantic tension throughout (and more about the curses) could have added a bit more to the relationship between the two to create a more realistic romance feel.
I am very thankful to the author for sending me the arc, I really appreciate the chance to read your book early. Thank you.
(plot points mentioned below, possible spoilers warning)
I want to note that even though I rated this 2 stars, it's my own personal opinion. Reading this, I can see how others will enjoy it immensely. It just wasn't for me. Some books that I rate low I can't imagine how anyone could possibly enjoy it, this one however I can see the joy it will give to others who will read it.
That being said,
I think the battle and what led up to it was the strongest section of the book. I think it kept the most interest. I also enjoy the world, the different kingdoms that evolved from humans, and the sea raiders who mostly resemble humans but have their own magic to them. I wish to see more lore of the world since it felt like the strongest part of the book, I want to know more about the seers and the kingdoms and the alliances between them.
I wasn't big on the writing at times and didn't like many of the characters until the end when one of them (Herald) became a little more tolerable. I felt a lot of the characters hated everyone else who wasn't them, hated every other race, hated those who had to walk because they had no wings, etc. Eliana was the only exception, but she didn't have a major role in the story.
Lastly, I think the romance was very rushed
in the last chapter, it was a fast-paced book so I understand things need to be fast and a lot needs to be crammed in for it to stay a standalone but more romantic tension throughout (and more about the curses) could have added a bit more to the relationship between the two to create a more realistic romance feel.
I am very thankful to the author for sending me the arc, I really appreciate the chance to read your book early. Thank you.
July 16, 2023
I feel like I missed something?
It took me over a week to be able to write and post this review because I wanted to love the idea of this book so bad.
Confusion is what I am feeling now that I finished this book. I feel like I just got done reading a book that had missing pages and sometimes whole chapters.
The best part of the book was the action scenes. They were very well written.
The rest was frustrating, confusing, and just felt completely lost in the sauce. Just understand for me the whole book felt not just incomplete but like huge sections were just missing. It honestly felt like someone went through it and went this is to long and just started yeeting pages and chapters till it was the right length. I absolutely hate having to say this.
The MFC and MMC were unfathomably frustrating and annoying. It was like reading a pair of rich, spoiled, and selfish teenagers that you are trying to find something redeemable to love but you just want to knock them both upside the head and hoping one gets offed in the action to stop the useless bickering.
There were background characters that I got a peek-a-boo look at that made me go "Ooooo" and then nothing. They were just there like a piece of furniture. I was so disappointed.
I feel so bad leaving this review but I have to be honest. I myself need character building, detail, and depth. This felt like an outline, a preview, or a very surface level read.
This is only my opinion basted on my tastes and what hooks me into a book. Everyone is different and I always say do not depend on other's reviews. Read it for yourself! Because what I like you may not and the same goes for what you may like I may not.
Always read it yourself.
It took me over a week to be able to write and post this review because I wanted to love the idea of this book so bad.
Confusion is what I am feeling now that I finished this book. I feel like I just got done reading a book that had missing pages and sometimes whole chapters.
The best part of the book was the action scenes. They were very well written.
The rest was frustrating, confusing, and just felt completely lost in the sauce. Just understand for me the whole book felt not just incomplete but like huge sections were just missing. It honestly felt like someone went through it and went this is to long and just started yeeting pages and chapters till it was the right length. I absolutely hate having to say this.
The MFC and MMC were unfathomably frustrating and annoying. It was like reading a pair of rich, spoiled, and selfish teenagers that you are trying to find something redeemable to love but you just want to knock them both upside the head and hoping one gets offed in the action to stop the useless bickering.
There were background characters that I got a peek-a-boo look at that made me go "Ooooo" and then nothing. They were just there like a piece of furniture. I was so disappointed.
I feel so bad leaving this review but I have to be honest. I myself need character building, detail, and depth. This felt like an outline, a preview, or a very surface level read.
This is only my opinion basted on my tastes and what hooks me into a book. Everyone is different and I always say do not depend on other's reviews. Read it for yourself! Because what I like you may not and the same goes for what you may like I may not.
Always read it yourself.
July 19, 2023
Super cute and engaging
So this too is a new author to me through this multi author series and I’m so glad this book will not be a standalone. I want more of these characters and these kingdoms.
This book does end in a happily ever after for now type ending so if you just want a one book read this should be good.
Long angst but a good steady plot with some battles. Curses and political intrigue.
A m/f romantic fantasy set in a world where multiple magical creatures each have their own kingdom. This story was primarily based in the floating kingdom of the faeries set up the sea.
A Faery princess must forge a marriage of convenience with her childhood enemy in order to protect her kingdom. But what starts out fake turns real when they are forced to battle together.
I really liked how there was room for a miscommunication trope but it never took root. I loved how they didn’t mince words and were brutally honest with each other. I think that brought them closer together.
My favorite part was the ‘marriage� of sea and air. Great word play. Plus how she walks with him spoke of so much respect.
Dual povs told in third person
Characters-
Karalyn - Princess of the Faeries
Harald - Prince/King of the Sea Raiders
Steam - clean read, wedding kiss, slow burn chemistry
Trigger - battle, death
So this too is a new author to me through this multi author series and I’m so glad this book will not be a standalone. I want more of these characters and these kingdoms.
This book does end in a happily ever after for now type ending so if you just want a one book read this should be good.
Long angst but a good steady plot with some battles. Curses and political intrigue.
A m/f romantic fantasy set in a world where multiple magical creatures each have their own kingdom. This story was primarily based in the floating kingdom of the faeries set up the sea.
A Faery princess must forge a marriage of convenience with her childhood enemy in order to protect her kingdom. But what starts out fake turns real when they are forced to battle together.
I really liked how there was room for a miscommunication trope but it never took root. I loved how they didn’t mince words and were brutally honest with each other. I think that brought them closer together.
My favorite part was the ‘marriage� of sea and air. Great word play. Plus how she walks with him spoke of so much respect.
Dual povs told in third person
Characters-
Karalyn - Princess of the Faeries
Harald - Prince/King of the Sea Raiders
Steam - clean read, wedding kiss, slow burn chemistry
Trigger - battle, death
September 23, 2023
Like dragging your face across hot asphalt.
Two hundred pages of nothing. Do the characters get developed? No. Does their relationship? Absolutely not. Banter? No. Does the curse get explained more in depth? No. Was there world building? None that felt intentional.
It ends with WILDLY out of nowhere declarations of love and "so starts the saga of Karalyn and Harald"
I just endured 200 dry redundant pages of inconsequential arguments, peppered with violent attacks(and "oh let's leave it alone" responses, bc THAT makes sense with royal assassination attempts). Like this was supposed to be a teaser for the actual book, except it didn't want to give anything away other than the character names.
That's not a teaser it's borderline torture. How long do you spend waiting for it to feel like the book has started? Well. I hit 90%, still wondering (and then checked how far I was, and ended mad I wasted my time and mad that a potentially solid premise was flushed down the toilet).
Couldn't even let the main characters develop while they sat around waiting to be attacked.
KindleUnlimited. Hard pass. Hard hard pass.
Two hundred pages of nothing. Do the characters get developed? No. Does their relationship? Absolutely not. Banter? No. Does the curse get explained more in depth? No. Was there world building? None that felt intentional.
It ends with WILDLY out of nowhere declarations of love and "so starts the saga of Karalyn and Harald"
I just endured 200 dry redundant pages of inconsequential arguments, peppered with violent attacks(and "oh let's leave it alone" responses, bc THAT makes sense with royal assassination attempts). Like this was supposed to be a teaser for the actual book, except it didn't want to give anything away other than the character names.
That's not a teaser it's borderline torture. How long do you spend waiting for it to feel like the book has started? Well. I hit 90%, still wondering (and then checked how far I was, and ended mad I wasted my time and mad that a potentially solid premise was flushed down the toilet).
Couldn't even let the main characters develop while they sat around waiting to be attacked.
KindleUnlimited. Hard pass. Hard hard pass.
July 8, 2023
Karalyn, now 19, has always hated the prince, Prince Harald, ever since she was 8. Her parents are trying to find her a suitor, when one suitor one day mentions to Karalyn that she’s cursed. She finds out from her parents it’s true that the seers have seen that Karalyn is linked to a curse that will end all magic for everyone. And now all the different lands know about this curse and may want to end her life to prevent that from happening. Karalyn decides to try to ask Prince Harald to enter into a fake marriage with her to help protect the fairies from potential war.
For being a shorter book, there was quite the world in this one! It’s well written with many mythological creatures, political intrigue, and an enemies to lovers romance. For the most part, I really liked the story and the world. The romance would have worked better if it were a longer story, so the romance didn’t really work for me that much, but I did like the individual characters a lot, and I liked a lot of the side characters as well. There’s a bit of mystery in this story too that I wish was expounded on since there’s one thing that occurs, but it does not go into detail. And so I’m not sure if there might be more books in this world or not, I kind of hope so since there may be more detail in more books.
Overall, I enjoyed it! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For being a shorter book, there was quite the world in this one! It’s well written with many mythological creatures, political intrigue, and an enemies to lovers romance. For the most part, I really liked the story and the world. The romance would have worked better if it were a longer story, so the romance didn’t really work for me that much, but I did like the individual characters a lot, and I liked a lot of the side characters as well. There’s a bit of mystery in this story too that I wish was expounded on since there’s one thing that occurs, but it does not go into detail. And so I’m not sure if there might be more books in this world or not, I kind of hope so since there may be more detail in more books.
Overall, I enjoyed it! I received a free digital copy to read. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 7, 2023
Bound by Curses by Nicole Zoltack is part of the Starry Kingdoms Series. It’s an Enemies to Lovers Fae Fantasy Romance. These books are all standalones written by different authors. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but after reading this book you best be believing I will be checking out all their other books. The way this world was described was fantastic, I could imagine myself being part of the world as I read along. The writing itself was beautifully done while the plot and pace of the book kept me interested all the way until the end. I mean I did read it cover to cover in one sitting. One of my favorite things about this book is that a situation is never black and white, that was really great to read. I also loved the lengths Princess Karalyn was willing to go to protect her kingdom. I appreciated how Karalyn and Harald were able to work with each other and move on from past grudges. I was a fan with everything about this tale, you should definitely give this book a read.
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
April 4, 2025
Overall, I am giving this rating because most of the book was quite interesting. Also, the amount of information given was somewhat surprising to me for such a short book.
It could have been a 3.5 star rating, but then the end happened…Without giving away spoilers the end felt very rushed and disjointed, for lack of a better word. I get things can change and that what happened at the end surely played a part, but there was just no proper build-up. It was just bam! I felt more time needed to be spent developing this aspect. Plus, certain big things were left hanging.
Also of note is that this is book one of at least two. I did see book 2 is available on KU so I got it, but Im not sure if I will read it yet or not. I mostly say that because I cannot find out via the author’s website anything about this series. As I feel it probably has another book and yet I cannot find information about even the two books out now I may not bother to read it as a result.
It could have been a 3.5 star rating, but then the end happened…Without giving away spoilers the end felt very rushed and disjointed, for lack of a better word. I get things can change and that what happened at the end surely played a part, but there was just no proper build-up. It was just bam! I felt more time needed to be spent developing this aspect. Plus, certain big things were left hanging.
Also of note is that this is book one of at least two. I did see book 2 is available on KU so I got it, but Im not sure if I will read it yet or not. I mostly say that because I cannot find out via the author’s website anything about this series. As I feel it probably has another book and yet I cannot find information about even the two books out now I may not bother to read it as a result.
June 11, 2023
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
This was a shorter read (maybe 2hrs), but it was well developed and plotted. It’s an HEA or HFN if the author decides to expand more.
For a shorter read, it was on the more cozy side with a bit of action at the end. I love Karalyn’s sassiness at not just Harald, but with others. She is a strong character and I appreciated the way that there was character depth and development with recognizing their past flaws.
I think the only thing I would want is to know more with Prophecies. To not spoil it, I would simply ask more expanded on that along with it felt like it was unfinished, despite being closed with HEA. I feel like there is potential for a sequel with the unanswered questions to those prophecies.
Otherwise, it was a good quick read and did have me laughing at a couple points.
This was a shorter read (maybe 2hrs), but it was well developed and plotted. It’s an HEA or HFN if the author decides to expand more.
For a shorter read, it was on the more cozy side with a bit of action at the end. I love Karalyn’s sassiness at not just Harald, but with others. She is a strong character and I appreciated the way that there was character depth and development with recognizing their past flaws.
I think the only thing I would want is to know more with Prophecies. To not spoil it, I would simply ask more expanded on that along with it felt like it was unfinished, despite being closed with HEA. I feel like there is potential for a sequel with the unanswered questions to those prophecies.
Otherwise, it was a good quick read and did have me laughing at a couple points.
July 6, 2023
This is the sixth book to release in the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae Series and again the story does not disappoint. In this book we are introduced to the princess of the fairies of Fae Falls, Karalyn, who had been living a normally royal life, until a potential suitor came to the kingdom and let it spill that it was said she is cursed. This brings on a series of events that leads her to enter into a fake marriage with the prince of the Sea, Harald. The two cannot stand each other, but feels the marriage will strengthen both their lands, given that the seers have let it be known to Karalyn only that Harald is cursed as well. The romance is pushed to the back burner in this book and it is mostly about learning to trust and putting aside your differences and dislikes. The only thing I wish is that we would have gotten more of Harald's curse and what it involved.
July 8, 2023
This whole book is the definition of enemies to lovers�. Herald, prince of the sea riders and karalyn princess of the faeries have been mortal enemies since childhood. Everything is peaceful in their respective kingdoms until people start whispering that she’s cursed and her curse will ruin them all. After she’s attacked she only sees one way to defend her people and that’s with an alliance. An alliance she is dreading because it involves the handsome Prince Herald. The bickering and banter between them is the absolute cutest and watching their relationship change is so enjoyable. The story isn’t slow paced or super fast either and the world building and secondary characters are everything!!!! And one of the highlights of this book was getting to be a little more familiar with wyvern just like fourth wing. I enjoyed this book just as much.
July 15, 2023
This is the start of a new series, so the ending is a bit open ended. I must admit I wasn't expecting that, but I'm curious for the sequel nontheless!
Karalyn and Harald are entertaining characters, the're both strong anddevout to their countries, but I didn't really get romantic vibes from them. The ending scene is when they confess their love for one another, but even then I just didn't feel chemistry with them. But I think that maybe in the sequel we'll get more romatic vibes, since they only got together at the end of this one.
I was also expecting the final battle to be grander and be a big deal, but it felt a little rushed.
Other than that, this is a very enjoyable novel that has a lot of lore when it comes to magic and magicl creatures!
TW:war, curses, murder, attempted murder, violence, mentioned drowning.
Karalyn and Harald are entertaining characters, the're both strong anddevout to their countries, but I didn't really get romantic vibes from them. The ending scene is when they confess their love for one another, but even then I just didn't feel chemistry with them. But I think that maybe in the sequel we'll get more romatic vibes, since they only got together at the end of this one.
I was also expecting the final battle to be grander and be a big deal, but it felt a little rushed.
Other than that, this is a very enjoyable novel that has a lot of lore when it comes to magic and magicl creatures!
TW:war, curses, murder, attempted murder, violence, mentioned drowning.
July 16, 2023
Bound By Curses is a novella that’s a part of the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae collection.
Overall, I enjoyed this! It’s a cute, quick read.
My one complaint is that Bound By Curses felt a little rushed in places, especially the ending. BbC almost felt like one of the novellas you’d get from an author’s newsletter because it seemed to be setting up a series or full length novel. There’s just so many loose threads, especially in regards to curses, at the end of this novella. Also the romance felt a tad bit rushed. Especially,
Many thanks to BOMM and the author for the eARC!
Overall, I enjoyed this! It’s a cute, quick read.
My one complaint is that Bound By Curses felt a little rushed in places, especially the ending. BbC almost felt like one of the novellas you’d get from an author’s newsletter because it seemed to be setting up a series or full length novel. There’s just so many loose threads, especially in regards to curses, at the end of this novella. Also the romance felt a tad bit rushed. Especially,
Many thanks to BOMM and the author for the eARC!
July 7, 2023
Bounded by Curses is a part of the Starry Kingdom of the Fae series which can be read alone, in any order.
I would recommend this book for someone who is looking for an easy and fun read. It has the enemies to lovers trope as well as the fake marriage trope. I enjoyed reading about the different kingdoms and their characteristics.
That being said, this book was not my cup of tea. There was quite a lot of loose ends in the story and I wished the world building was a bit more fleshed out. I also wasn’t a big fan of the main character, Karalyn. But I did enjoy the banter between her and Prince Harald.
This story does have a happy ending but it also felt like the story was left unfinished.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC !
I would recommend this book for someone who is looking for an easy and fun read. It has the enemies to lovers trope as well as the fake marriage trope. I enjoyed reading about the different kingdoms and their characteristics.
That being said, this book was not my cup of tea. There was quite a lot of loose ends in the story and I wished the world building was a bit more fleshed out. I also wasn’t a big fan of the main character, Karalyn. But I did enjoy the banter between her and Prince Harald.
This story does have a happy ending but it also felt like the story was left unfinished.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC !
June 28, 2023
Recommendation if you’re looking for an easy YA novella with Fairies, Sea Raiders and floating kingdoms.
This novella is told from dual POV (Karalyn the Fairy Princess and Harald the Sea Raider Prince). It’s both light and quick paced. It also really feels like a YA fantasy, nothing complex and with quick revelations and progress. It wasn’t my cup of tea because I like stories to have some more depth and complexity. The last chapter made it 3 stars instead of 3,5 for me. There were too many loose ends and the romantic developments at the end for the HEA kind of came out of nowhere in my opinion.
I received an eARC of this book.
This novella is told from dual POV (Karalyn the Fairy Princess and Harald the Sea Raider Prince). It’s both light and quick paced. It also really feels like a YA fantasy, nothing complex and with quick revelations and progress. It wasn’t my cup of tea because I like stories to have some more depth and complexity. The last chapter made it 3 stars instead of 3,5 for me. There were too many loose ends and the romantic developments at the end for the HEA kind of came out of nowhere in my opinion.
I received an eARC of this book.
September 5, 2023
The story is about the princess being curse, the profecy says she will burn the sky’s and when she does all magic will be gone. The princess Karalyn doesn’t know how she will burn the skies but she has to figure out a way to break her curse and decides that she needs to unite with one kingdom because she is now getting attack and her life is being threatened. Harald is a sea prince and he and princess Karalyn don’t like each other since kids, they pretty much hate each other but for the sake of the kingdom Karalyn propose marriage even though he is the Last person she want to be married to. I really enjoyed it and the ending made me smile so big. The story is super cute and clean.
July 7, 2023
This slowburn Enemies to Lovers was a delicious novella that was fast paced and easy to read. The perfect palate cleanser when you need a little fantasy romance. The last line of the book had me 🫠
I love the world this book is and I am so excited that the author will be writing more books about it!! I definitely want to see more of Harald and Karalyn.
The actual battle and conflict seemed a bit rushed with how much build up we got for the prophecy but as it is a novella that sometimes can't be helped.
I love the world this book is and I am so excited that the author will be writing more books about it!! I definitely want to see more of Harald and Karalyn.
The actual battle and conflict seemed a bit rushed with how much build up we got for the prophecy but as it is a novella that sometimes can't be helped.
July 10, 2023
I received an ARC of this novella for a fair and honest review.
This book is the story of a marriage of convenience between a sky princess and a sea prince. They marry to thwart a curse. Since this is a novella, there isn't a lot of detail about the curses and I felt the hate to love was a little rushed but the story interested me enough and I enjoyed the writing enough that I will be checking out this authors backlist. The story is fast paced and a very fun cute fantasy romance!
Thank you Nicole for the opportunity to read the ARC.
This book is the story of a marriage of convenience between a sky princess and a sea prince. They marry to thwart a curse. Since this is a novella, there isn't a lot of detail about the curses and I felt the hate to love was a little rushed but the story interested me enough and I enjoyed the writing enough that I will be checking out this authors backlist. The story is fast paced and a very fun cute fantasy romance!
Thank you Nicole for the opportunity to read the ARC.
July 12, 2023
Might contain spoilers
I loved the concept of this story with fairies, slyphs, wyverns, manticores and the like. But at times it was difficult to get into the story mostly because word choice or how sentences were structured. Also Karalyn is a fairy who controls vines and she’d been doing so for almost the entirety of the book but all of a sudden she could use wind magic? It didn’t really make sense especially when we already have Slyphs who can. There wasn’t really an tension between the couple either a bit of romance but not much.
I loved the concept of this story with fairies, slyphs, wyverns, manticores and the like. But at times it was difficult to get into the story mostly because word choice or how sentences were structured. Also Karalyn is a fairy who controls vines and she’d been doing so for almost the entirety of the book but all of a sudden she could use wind magic? It didn’t really make sense especially when we already have Slyphs who can. There wasn’t really an tension between the couple either a bit of romance but not much.
December 26, 2023
A little confused by the ending
I enjoyed this books as I typically like enemies to lovers trope. I feel the story progressed well but was very rushed In the end. Not sure how uiu can go from loathing, to distrust, to grudgingly respect (possibly),straight to love. Would have given 5 stars if it had maybe ended with them not hating each other and being open to progressing their relationship. Overall though excellent storyline,and great writing. Added the next book in the series to my tbr.
I enjoyed this books as I typically like enemies to lovers trope. I feel the story progressed well but was very rushed In the end. Not sure how uiu can go from loathing, to distrust, to grudgingly respect (possibly),straight to love. Would have given 5 stars if it had maybe ended with them not hating each other and being open to progressing their relationship. Overall though excellent storyline,and great writing. Added the next book in the series to my tbr.
March 29, 2024
Started great but...
This book started great, and I could hardly put it down. And then...well, I agree with the other reviewer that said it appeared pages were removed from the book. Even with the dialog at times, I checked to make sure I hadn't missed something. The bickering between the MCs didn't follow a logical conversation at times. They went from hating each other to kissing in two chapters; the ending just fell flat. Wish I could rate it higher because I know what low reviews do to authors but from the writing to the plot, I just can't go higher than a 2.
This book started great, and I could hardly put it down. And then...well, I agree with the other reviewer that said it appeared pages were removed from the book. Even with the dialog at times, I checked to make sure I hadn't missed something. The bickering between the MCs didn't follow a logical conversation at times. They went from hating each other to kissing in two chapters; the ending just fell flat. Wish I could rate it higher because I know what low reviews do to authors but from the writing to the plot, I just can't go higher than a 2.
June 13, 2023
Stand alone in the Starry Kingdoms of the Fae collection
An emotionally-charged, action-packed adventure among varied groups who will stop at nothing to protect their magic. Strong characters. Detailed world building.
Cursed to destroy magic. Turning to an enemy for help. Threat of war on the horizon.
"A prisoner in my own chamber, in my own castle...all because of a prophecy."
"Together, perhaps we can do more. Be more. Rise above our curses."
An emotionally-charged, action-packed adventure among varied groups who will stop at nothing to protect their magic. Strong characters. Detailed world building.
Cursed to destroy magic. Turning to an enemy for help. Threat of war on the horizon.
"A prisoner in my own chamber, in my own castle...all because of a prophecy."
"Together, perhaps we can do more. Be more. Rise above our curses."
June 17, 2023
I enjoyed reading this fast-paced Romantasy. The author's writing style was engaging, had a nice flow and I felt the storyline and characters were well developed.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers, a bit of well-timed sass, prophecies, curses and undeniable chemistry this book should definitely be on your Summer TBR.
Thank you to the author Nicole Zoltack for providing me with an ARC of this book.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers, a bit of well-timed sass, prophecies, curses and undeniable chemistry this book should definitely be on your Summer TBR.
Thank you to the author Nicole Zoltack for providing me with an ARC of this book.
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