An excellent first installment in a new YA series - slightly predictable, but I adored the prose, characters, and representation. I think this will be a big hit with YA readers!

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this book.

I really enjoyed this! There was definitely a fairytale mystical vibe and the pacing of the book was easy to read and follow.

The mystery of the twins drew me in straight away and the continued suspense around Gwen kept me wanting answers. I loved the friendships and character diversity, and of course the plot twists!!

I’ll definitely be reading the next book and I can’t wait for its release 🫶🏼

The Cursed Melodies felt like stepping into a hauntingly beautiful fairytale - dark, lyrical, and completely mesmerising. Astrid and Jonas’ connection to nature was written in such a vivid, enchanting way that it made the whole story feel alive, with flowers that whispered secrets and trees that sang of the past. The tension of their isolation, mixed with the mysterious world of the Bloom Bloods, created a gothic atmosphere that kept me hooked from start to finish.

I loved how the story balanced its eerie, magical elements with the deep, emotional bond between the twins. The sense of longing and danger built steadily, and by the end, I was completely invested in the unraveling of their past and the secrets hidden within the manor. If you love lush, atmospheric fantasies with a touch of darkness, this one’s a must-read!

The Cursed Melodies by Connie Glynn is a spellbinding and enchanting start to a new teen fantasy series, brimming with hidden powers, budding romance, and dark magic. With its richly imagined world, compelling characters, and high-stakes plot, this book is perfect for fans of magical adventures and stories that explore the balance between light and darkness.

The story follows Astrid and Jonas, twins who share a unique and mysterious bond with nature. Flowers whisper instructions to them, and trees sing of their histories, but their caretakers have always kept them away from the natural world, fearing their abilities. When they are sent to a sprawling manor house, they wonder if it will be a refuge or just another cage. Meanwhile, Gwen, a determined young woman with a deep knowledge of the shadow world of Bloom Bloods, is on a mission to prove her worth after failing her application to Fountains Abbey, the prestigious school that trains the next generation of magical protectors.

When the twins and Gwen cross paths, their unique abilities are revealed, and they are drawn into a dangerous quest to stop a mysterious evil that is spreading across the world. Unnatural monsters are appearing, weaving discordant magic and threatening the balance between the mundane and mystic realms. Together, the trio must uncover the truth behind the cursed melodies and harness their powers to confront the darkness.

One of the standout features of The Cursed Melodies is its richly imagined world-building. Glynn creates a vivid and immersive setting, from the eerie manor house with its spires and ivy to the hidden world of Bloom Bloods and their magical melodies. The blend of nature-based magic and dark, discordant forces adds depth and intrigue to the narrative, making the world feel alive and full of mystery.

Astrid and Jonas are compelling protagonists, whose bond as twins and their connection to nature make them both relatable and fascinating. Gwen, with her determination and knowledge of the magical world, adds a layer of complexity and drive to the story. The dynamic between the three characters is electric, filled with tension, camaraderie, and the promise of budding romance.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The stakes are high, with the fate of both the mundane and mystic worlds hanging in the balance, and the tension builds steadily as the trio uncovers the truth behind the cursed melodies. The blend of action, mystery, and magic creates a narrative that is as engaging as it is unpredictable.

Thematically, The Cursed Melodies explores issues of identity, belonging, and the power of unity. The novel also delves into the idea of balance—between light and darkness, nature and civilization, and the mundane and the magical. These themes are woven seamlessly into the story, adding depth and resonance to the narrative.

If there is a minor critique, it is that some readers may find the large cast of characters and the complex world-building a bit overwhelming at first. However, this is a small quibble in an otherwise masterfully crafted novel.

The Cursed Melodies is a must-read for fans of teen fantasy and magical adventures. Connie Glynn has created a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, offering readers a chance to lose themselves in a world of magic, mystery, and the enduring power of friendship.

A spellbinding and enchanting fantasy, The Cursed Melodies is a standout debut that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next instalment in the series. A great book to begin discussions of inclusion and representation within the genre!