Enchanting Autumn Nights in Graves Glen
As the leaves turn golden and jack-o’-lanterns flicker to life, there’s no better time to curl up with a magical romance that captures the essence of spooky season. Erin Sterling’s “The Kiss Curse” delivers just that—a delightful concoction of witchy hijinks, small-town charm, and sizzling romance that will have readers under its spell from the first page to the last.
A Sequel That Stands on Its Own Enchanted Ground
While “The Kiss Curse” is the second book in Sterling’s Graves Glen series, following the New York Times bestseller “The Ex Hex,” newcomers need not fear. This standalone story weaves its own magical tapestry, introducing us to the fiery Gwyn Jones and the delectably uptight Wells Penhallow. Their chemistry crackles like autumn leaves underfoot, making this the perfect read for those crisp October nights.
Brewing Up a Storm: Plot and Pacing
A Tale of Two Witches (and Their Shops)
Gwyn Jones is living her best witchy life in Graves Glen, running her shop Something Wicked and mentoring young witches. Enter Wells Penhallow, scion of the town’s founding family, who sets up his own magical emporium right across the street. What follows is a delicious battle of wills, wares, and witchcraft that had this reader cackling with glee.
Sterling’s pacing is as smooth as a well-brewed potion. The rivalry between Gwyn and Wells simmers perfectly, building to a boil that threatens to spill over in the most delightful ways. But just when you think you know where the story is headed, Sterling throws in twists that will have you gasping – and frantically turning pages.
Magic Gone Awry: A Mystery Unfolds
The arrival of a mysterious new coven in town coincides with Gwyn’s powers beginning to fade. This subplot adds depth to the narrative, raising the stakes and forcing our protagonists to work together. It’s a clever device that not only ramps up the tension but also allows for some truly swoon-worthy moments as Gwyn and Wells navigate their growing attraction while trying to solve the magical mystery.
Characters That Cast a Spell
Gwyn Jones: A Heroine to Root For
Gwyn is the kind of protagonist you want to befriend immediately. She’s witty, independent, and fiercely loyal to her family and town. Her struggle with her fading powers adds vulnerability to her character, making her relatable even as she casts spells and brews potions. Sterling has created a heroine who feels real, flaws and all, which makes her triumphs all the sweeter.
Wells Penhallow: More Than Meets the Eye
At first glance, Wells seems like the stereotypical stuffed shirt – all proper manners and starched collars. But as layers peel away, we discover a complex character struggling with family expectations and his own desires. His journey from uptight outsider to a man willing to don a ridiculous hat for love is both hilarious and heartwarming.
Supporting Cast: A Coven of Delights
Sterling populates Graves Glen with a colorful cast of secondary characters that bring the town to life. From Gwyn’s “Baby Witches” (her young mentees) to the enigmatic Morgan, each character adds flavor to the story. Special mention must go to Sir Purrcival, Gwyn’s talking cat, whose sardonic comments provide some of the book’s best laughs.
Romance That Sizzles and Sparkles
From Rivalry to Romance
The enemies-to-lovers trope gets a magical makeover in “The Kiss Curse.” Gwyn and Wells’ initial antagonism crackles with sexual tension, and their gradual shift from rivals to allies to lovers is beautifully paced. Sterling knows how to write a kiss that will curl your toes and warm your heart simultaneously.
Spicy Scenes with a Dash of Magic
While “The Kiss Curse” isn’t erotica, it doesn’t shy away from steamy scenes. Sterling strikes a perfect balance, giving readers enough heat to fog up their glasses without overwhelming the plot. And when magic gets involved in the bedroom? Let’s just say it adds a whole new meaning to “earth-shattering.”
Worldbuilding: A Town You’ll Want to Visit
Graves Glen: Where Magic Meets Main Street
Sterling’s depiction of Graves Glen is so vivid you can almost smell the pumpkin spice and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. The blend of small-town Americana with magical elements creates a setting that’s both familiar and fantastical. From the dueling shops to the college campus infused with witchcraft, every location feels lived-in and magical.
Magic System: Practical and Whimsical
The magic in “The Kiss Curse” strikes a balance between the practical (running magical shops) and the whimsical (talking cats, anyone?). Sterling’s system feels cohesive and well-thought-out, with enough rules to make sense but enough flexibility to allow for surprises. The way magic is woven into everyday life in Graves Glen makes the fantastical elements feel natural and believable.
Themes: More Than Just Hocus Pocus
Family Legacy and Personal Identity
Both Gwyn and Wells grapple with the weight of family expectations and magical legacies. Their journeys to reconcile their heritage with their own desires add depth to the story, touching on themes of identity and self-discovery that will resonate with many readers.
Community and Belonging
The importance of community is a strong undercurrent in the novel. Graves Glen isn’t just a setting; it’s a character in its own right, with the power to nurture or challenge its inhabitants. The way the town rallies around Gwyn in her time of need is particularly heartwarming.
Sterling’s Style: A Magical Touch
Witty Banter and Laugh-Out-Loud Moments
Sterling’s writing sparkles with humor. The banter between Gwyn and Wells is particularly delightful, full of quips and comebacks that will have you grinning. But it’s not just the main characters – even minor interactions are infused with wit that keeps the tone light and fun.
Atmospheric Prose
When it comes to setting the mood, Sterling’s prose shines. Her descriptions of autumnal Graves Glen are downright atmospheric, perfect for readers looking to get into the Halloween spirit. You can practically feel the chill in the air and see the fairy lights twinkling in shop windows.
Comparisons and Context
The Ex Hex: A Worthy Successor
Fans of “The Ex Hex” will find much to love in this sequel. While it stands alone, there are enough callbacks and cameos to delight those who’ve read the first book. Sterling has expanded her magical world in satisfying ways, deepening the lore of Graves Glen. Looking forward to the next installment, The Wedding Witch.
In Good Company: Similar Reads
For those who enjoy “The Kiss Curse,” I’d recommend checking out works by authors like Sarah Addison Allen (“Garden Spells”) for more magical realism with a Southern twist, or Alix E. Harrow’s “The Once and Future Witches” for another take on witchy sisters. Readers might also enjoy Erin Craig’s “House of Salt and Sorrows” for a darker, more gothic flavor of magical romance.
Final Verdict: A Spellbinding Read
“The Kiss Curse” is a perfect Halloween treat – sweet, a little spicy, and utterly satisfying. Sterling has crafted a romance that’s as cozy as a warm sweater and as exciting as a brisk autumn wind. With its perfect blend of magic, humor, and heart, this novel is sure to cast a spell on readers long after the last page is turned.
Whether you’re a fan of paranormal romance, looking for a seasonal read, or just in the mood for a story that will make you laugh and swoon in equal measure, “The Kiss Curse” delivers. So light some candles, brew a cup of your favorite potion (pumpkin spice latte, anyone?), and prepare to be enchanted.
The Good:
- Delightful enemies-to-lovers romance
- Vivid, atmospheric setting
- Well-developed magical system
- Laugh-out-loud humor
- Perfect seasonal read
The Not-So-Good:
- Some plot points may feel familiar to genre fans
- A few secondary characters could use more development
Who Should Read This Book:
- Fans of paranormal romance
- Anyone looking for a cozy, magical autumn read
- Readers who enjoy small-town settings with a supernatural twist
- Those who like their romance with a side of humor and whimsy
So grab your broomstick, your familiar, and settle in for a bewitching adventure. “The Kiss Curse” is one spell you’ll be happy to fall under.