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The Curse Books #1
The Thousand Year Curse
Alternate cover edition - ISBN: 1491090863
Being a teenager isn't all fun and games for seventeen year old Ryder. After being thrown down the social hierarchy, Ryder Mason has one goal for her senior year- survive.
Within the first month of school, Ryder goes from bullied teen to a cursed half goddess with two boyfriends. As if that wasn't enough, she travels into the Underworld to confront Hades about the curse and her missing mother.
Ryder delves head first into a Godly world as her two knights fight to seek her approval, her best friend's loyalties are tested and people's true intentions are shown in the first Curse Books novel.
Being a teenager isn't all fun and games for seventeen year old Ryder. After being thrown down the social hierarchy, Ryder Mason has one goal for her senior year- survive.
Within the first month of school, Ryder goes from bullied teen to a cursed half goddess with two boyfriends. As if that wasn't enough, she travels into the Underworld to confront Hades about the curse and her missing mother.
Ryder delves head first into a Godly world as her two knights fight to seek her approval, her best friend's loyalties are tested and people's true intentions are shown in the first Curse Books novel.
312 pages, Paperback
First published August 11, 2013
39 people are currently reading
1417 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Lavati
12 books255 followersA college student in her small town in Connecticut, Taylor loves everything having to do with literature. She is an avid reader, a blogger, a writer- obviously, and a reviewer. Her favorite genres are fantasy, paranormal, young adult, and romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 19, 2014
Ryder doesn’t have it easy in high school. She’s being bullied and she doesn’t have many friends. How could anything get worse? How about finding out she’s a cursed half goddess with two boyfriends. Ryder decides to make the perilous journey to the Underworld to speak with Hades and hopefully have the curse lifted.
This is a fun read. I’m not that familiar with mythology, and I loved learning about some stories I vaguely recalled from school. And seeing it all through Ryder’s eyes added to the enjoyment factor.
This is the first in the series and the author is constructing a complicated world with conflicted characters. Giving all the background information is important without overdoing it. For the most part, she succeeds, but there are times when a lot of information is thrown at the reader. The beginning of the story starts off a bit slow, but once the action picks up, it’s a quick read. I’m hoping the next in the series is action-packed from beginning to end now that she has set up the world a bit.
One of the things the author does well is all the high school drama. Ryder is a high school student and she always acts like a high school student. There’s something oddly entertaining about high school drama: the angst, confusion, love, and dating. And the love triangle is a fun aspect to the story.
I'm looking forward to reading the next one!
This is a fun read. I’m not that familiar with mythology, and I loved learning about some stories I vaguely recalled from school. And seeing it all through Ryder’s eyes added to the enjoyment factor.
This is the first in the series and the author is constructing a complicated world with conflicted characters. Giving all the background information is important without overdoing it. For the most part, she succeeds, but there are times when a lot of information is thrown at the reader. The beginning of the story starts off a bit slow, but once the action picks up, it’s a quick read. I’m hoping the next in the series is action-packed from beginning to end now that she has set up the world a bit.
One of the things the author does well is all the high school drama. Ryder is a high school student and she always acts like a high school student. There’s something oddly entertaining about high school drama: the angst, confusion, love, and dating. And the love triangle is a fun aspect to the story.
I'm looking forward to reading the next one!
March 9, 2014
An exciting new YA fantasy series that combines Greek mythology with sparkling teenage romance
“We are brought up being told tales of love and triumph…
I was brought up being told that there is always a happily ever after, but what if there isn’t?
…this curse is my fault”
Being a teenager is tough and 17 year old Ryder faces all kinds of challenges, including bullying and (slightly more unusually) being a cursed half-Goddess. After the first month of senior year she faces dilemmas such as having two boyfriends, as well as having to confront Hades in the underworld! Ryder delves head first into a Godly world as her Knight’s fight to seek her approval, whilst testing her best friend’s loyalties and true intentions.
‘The thousand year curse’ is a spectacular YA novel full of magic and mythology, targeted towards the older reader *as it does contain some more explicit scenes. Highly imaginative and dreamlike, Taylor’s novel cleverly plays tricks on the subconscious whilst allowing your imagination to soar. I loved the likable, memorable characters that were the sole focus of this character-driven story; that I would state is more of a romance than fantasy book. As a fan of love triangles I could not help but become emotionally involved in this terrific trio – leaving me sat in suspense as to who would claim Ryder’s heart?!
The striking, eye-catching (…I know, that comment is a bit cliché!) cover of this book is what drew me instantly to it like a magnet. I would highly recommend this to all fans of the genre, as it is a thoroughly entertaining read that will keep you transfixed for many hours.
A 4.5 star read!!
* I won a copy of “The thousand year curse” {a curse books novel} by Taylor Lavati, through a GoodReads first-read giveaway *
“We are brought up being told tales of love and triumph…
I was brought up being told that there is always a happily ever after, but what if there isn’t?
…this curse is my fault”
Being a teenager is tough and 17 year old Ryder faces all kinds of challenges, including bullying and (slightly more unusually) being a cursed half-Goddess. After the first month of senior year she faces dilemmas such as having two boyfriends, as well as having to confront Hades in the underworld! Ryder delves head first into a Godly world as her Knight’s fight to seek her approval, whilst testing her best friend’s loyalties and true intentions.
‘The thousand year curse’ is a spectacular YA novel full of magic and mythology, targeted towards the older reader *as it does contain some more explicit scenes. Highly imaginative and dreamlike, Taylor’s novel cleverly plays tricks on the subconscious whilst allowing your imagination to soar. I loved the likable, memorable characters that were the sole focus of this character-driven story; that I would state is more of a romance than fantasy book. As a fan of love triangles I could not help but become emotionally involved in this terrific trio – leaving me sat in suspense as to who would claim Ryder’s heart?!
The striking, eye-catching (…I know, that comment is a bit cliché!) cover of this book is what drew me instantly to it like a magnet. I would highly recommend this to all fans of the genre, as it is a thoroughly entertaining read that will keep you transfixed for many hours.
A 4.5 star read!!
* I won a copy of “The thousand year curse” {a curse books novel} by Taylor Lavati, through a GoodReads first-read giveaway *
February 4, 2014
I'm the author so obviously I love it. :)
September 25, 2023
3.5 stars
Note: ARC copy received by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ryder aka Eurydice just wants to live a normal life and go to high school and be accepted by those around her. Little did she know she was a reincarnation of the real Eurydice from Greek mythology and is in a hot and steamy love triangle with Ollie and Ari (also from Greek mythology). Now she wants to try and break the thousand year old curse from hades so the past doesn't keep haunting her.
The high school setting is spot on and I found the class schedule to be interesting. We didn't have different lunch times and classes like the author was describing but that would have been interesting. The author did a good job of building a believable setting and atmosphere for a teenager.
Eurydice was not a strong enough main character in my opinion, especially not to have two wonderfully gorgeous guys fighting over her. She seemed kind of weak willed and flighty, always switching back and forth on a whim. Her overall personality was contradictory too, she was bullied so much and felt like and outcast yet she could easily display a great deal of forwardness affection to someone she just met. Even though she was the main character I found her the least likable for my taste. Ollie and Ari on the other hand were quite the pair. Both were exceedingly loyal, I wish their back stories we developed a little more.
I went in picturing this as a total young adult novel so I was greatly surprised but the sex scenes. Those needed some better development, they seemed awkward when I was reading them I truthfully I thought the story could have done without them and flowed better.
Overall I love Greek mythology stories and the author did a great job expressing this little wrote about character. I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
Note: ARC copy received by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ryder aka Eurydice just wants to live a normal life and go to high school and be accepted by those around her. Little did she know she was a reincarnation of the real Eurydice from Greek mythology and is in a hot and steamy love triangle with Ollie and Ari (also from Greek mythology). Now she wants to try and break the thousand year old curse from hades so the past doesn't keep haunting her.
The high school setting is spot on and I found the class schedule to be interesting. We didn't have different lunch times and classes like the author was describing but that would have been interesting. The author did a good job of building a believable setting and atmosphere for a teenager.
Eurydice was not a strong enough main character in my opinion, especially not to have two wonderfully gorgeous guys fighting over her. She seemed kind of weak willed and flighty, always switching back and forth on a whim. Her overall personality was contradictory too, she was bullied so much and felt like and outcast yet she could easily display a great deal of forwardness affection to someone she just met. Even though she was the main character I found her the least likable for my taste. Ollie and Ari on the other hand were quite the pair. Both were exceedingly loyal, I wish their back stories we developed a little more.
I went in picturing this as a total young adult novel so I was greatly surprised but the sex scenes. Those needed some better development, they seemed awkward when I was reading them I truthfully I thought the story could have done without them and flowed better.
Overall I love Greek mythology stories and the author did a great job expressing this little wrote about character. I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
December 8, 2014
“I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review”.
Such an amazing book I loved every minute of it from start to end it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I could not stop reading because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Such a wonderful story can't wait to find out what happens next :)
Such an amazing book I loved every minute of it from start to end it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I could not stop reading because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. Such a wonderful story can't wait to find out what happens next :)
February 2, 2015
awesome read could not put down received as a gift to read and review and love it can't wait to see where the crew goes next
September 11, 2013
(This review can be found on my blog The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl towards the end of September).
When I first found out about this book, I was very interested. I couldn't wait to read it! Luckily, it totally delivered.
Ryder is a 17 year old high school student who isn't very popular. Her ex-best friend makes her life a living hell at school. When Ollie arrives, he takes an immediate interest. Ryder is thrilled and feels as if Ollie is her soul mate. Not much later, Ari turns up, and Ryder can't help but feel as if she's known him. There's also some kind of attraction there. Ryder must choose between the two boys. As if that wasn't hard enough, Ryder has just found out her mother is a Greek goddess. Ryder wants to find her mother but doing so may put everyone in danger.
The title is definitely interesting. It does go with what the books about, and I think it's an awesome choice.
To be honest, I'm not really a fan of the cover. I think it's just a personal thing simply because I'm not a big fan of symbolism. I do like the whole pretty flower in the midst of dead things, but I just don't like it for this book. It doesn't really say much about the book.
The world building is alright. There's a few things that hurt the world building. For example, it seemed to me that Ryder just accepted everything she was told at face value. Sure, a few weird things are happening to her, but it's like she's told by a boy she just met, and she believes it all. Her best friend is even worse. He's told that Ryder is a half-goddess, and he just believes it with no questions asked. Also, I don't really think this whole curse is explained well enough. In fact, I'm still a little confused about the curse. So if both guys find her, even if she chooses one, she'll die a horrible death and be reincarnated? I'm just wondering how long she has before she dies because it just seemed like the curse wasn't that imminent. There's also Ryder's powers. She's had super strength since the beginning of the book, yet later on she has another super strength episode, and she acts like it's the first one she's had and is all shocked. Another thing that I found confusing was the whole reincarnation thing. She's been reincarnated by Hades for a thousand years. This life, she is a half goddess which makes things a bit difficult for Hades. Surely if Hades is the one that put the curse on her, then he should've been able to make her human. Saying that, I don't want people to think the world building is horribly written. It's far from it actually. The world is very interesting, but I just tend to over think things, I think. (See what I mean)?
The pacing is great in this book. The pacing really picks up during the Hell scenes, I thought. These were the scenes that held my attention the most although the whole book held my attention. The Hell scenes just made me want to read faster to find out what would happen next!
The plot is definitely an interesting one. I love the infusion of Greek mythology, and Ms. Lavati does an excellent job of making mythology work in her book. I've read a few books where the author tried to use some sort of mythology, and the book was just too boring. However, The Thousand Year Curse is by no means boring! There is a love triangle, and I usually hate them, but this one works in this story. I also like the fact that the plot involved going into Hell. That was definitely a good move on Ms. Lavati's part to include it in her book. There's no cliff hangar ending, but there are questions left unanswered to make way for the second book in the series. I, personally, am looking forward to the next book in the series.
The characters were written really well. I liked Ryder, and I liked how she dealt with her problems. At times, I did get annoyed with her because I just wanted her to choose one guy. However, I would have to remind myself that without this problem, there'd be no series. Ryder felt like a real girl and not just words on a paper. Ollie was written really well, but I just didn't like him. For one, I felt like he was just too serious. I also felt like he was too distant with Ryder a lot of the time. I also wanted to see more about Ollie in the book. My favorite character was Ari. I swooned over Ari! He had enough of that bad boy personality without being too much of an annoying character. I liked how he liked to take chances, and it seemed like he knew how to have fun. I'm Team Ari all the way! I'm hoping that Ryder ends up with Ari in the long run. I can actually feel the chemistry between those two.
There are quite a lot of grammar errors in this book. I feel that it does affect the quality of the book a little bit, but not so much so that it makes it unreadable. However, the dialogue in this book is fantastic especially in the scenes that Ari is in. (Okay, so I'm a bit biased). The characters all speak like they're from this time period even though two of them are gods. I was super thankful the characters spoke like normal people. I've read a book before where the character who is a god spoke rather strangely hence why I was so happy with the dialogue in this book.
Overall, The Thousand Year Curse by Taylor Lavati is an enjoyable read. Sure, it could do with some better editing and the world building could've used a little bit of work, but it's still really interesting. Plus, I've learned that Ms. Lavati wrote this book in 30 days for the NaNoWriMo competition. After learning that, my respect for Ms. Lavati went up a lot! To write a book as good as The Thousand Year Curse in 30 days is no small feat. After saying that, I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
I'd recommend this book to those aged 17+ who are after a fantastic book with Greek mythology infusions.
(I was provided with a free paperback copy of this title from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review).
When I first found out about this book, I was very interested. I couldn't wait to read it! Luckily, it totally delivered.
Ryder is a 17 year old high school student who isn't very popular. Her ex-best friend makes her life a living hell at school. When Ollie arrives, he takes an immediate interest. Ryder is thrilled and feels as if Ollie is her soul mate. Not much later, Ari turns up, and Ryder can't help but feel as if she's known him. There's also some kind of attraction there. Ryder must choose between the two boys. As if that wasn't hard enough, Ryder has just found out her mother is a Greek goddess. Ryder wants to find her mother but doing so may put everyone in danger.
The title is definitely interesting. It does go with what the books about, and I think it's an awesome choice.
To be honest, I'm not really a fan of the cover. I think it's just a personal thing simply because I'm not a big fan of symbolism. I do like the whole pretty flower in the midst of dead things, but I just don't like it for this book. It doesn't really say much about the book.
The world building is alright. There's a few things that hurt the world building. For example, it seemed to me that Ryder just accepted everything she was told at face value. Sure, a few weird things are happening to her, but it's like she's told by a boy she just met, and she believes it all. Her best friend is even worse. He's told that Ryder is a half-goddess, and he just believes it with no questions asked. Also, I don't really think this whole curse is explained well enough. In fact, I'm still a little confused about the curse. So if both guys find her, even if she chooses one, she'll die a horrible death and be reincarnated? I'm just wondering how long she has before she dies because it just seemed like the curse wasn't that imminent. There's also Ryder's powers. She's had super strength since the beginning of the book, yet later on she has another super strength episode, and she acts like it's the first one she's had and is all shocked. Another thing that I found confusing was the whole reincarnation thing. She's been reincarnated by Hades for a thousand years. This life, she is a half goddess which makes things a bit difficult for Hades. Surely if Hades is the one that put the curse on her, then he should've been able to make her human. Saying that, I don't want people to think the world building is horribly written. It's far from it actually. The world is very interesting, but I just tend to over think things, I think. (See what I mean)?
The pacing is great in this book. The pacing really picks up during the Hell scenes, I thought. These were the scenes that held my attention the most although the whole book held my attention. The Hell scenes just made me want to read faster to find out what would happen next!
The plot is definitely an interesting one. I love the infusion of Greek mythology, and Ms. Lavati does an excellent job of making mythology work in her book. I've read a few books where the author tried to use some sort of mythology, and the book was just too boring. However, The Thousand Year Curse is by no means boring! There is a love triangle, and I usually hate them, but this one works in this story. I also like the fact that the plot involved going into Hell. That was definitely a good move on Ms. Lavati's part to include it in her book. There's no cliff hangar ending, but there are questions left unanswered to make way for the second book in the series. I, personally, am looking forward to the next book in the series.
The characters were written really well. I liked Ryder, and I liked how she dealt with her problems. At times, I did get annoyed with her because I just wanted her to choose one guy. However, I would have to remind myself that without this problem, there'd be no series. Ryder felt like a real girl and not just words on a paper. Ollie was written really well, but I just didn't like him. For one, I felt like he was just too serious. I also felt like he was too distant with Ryder a lot of the time. I also wanted to see more about Ollie in the book. My favorite character was Ari. I swooned over Ari! He had enough of that bad boy personality without being too much of an annoying character. I liked how he liked to take chances, and it seemed like he knew how to have fun. I'm Team Ari all the way! I'm hoping that Ryder ends up with Ari in the long run. I can actually feel the chemistry between those two.
There are quite a lot of grammar errors in this book. I feel that it does affect the quality of the book a little bit, but not so much so that it makes it unreadable. However, the dialogue in this book is fantastic especially in the scenes that Ari is in. (Okay, so I'm a bit biased). The characters all speak like they're from this time period even though two of them are gods. I was super thankful the characters spoke like normal people. I've read a book before where the character who is a god spoke rather strangely hence why I was so happy with the dialogue in this book.
Overall, The Thousand Year Curse by Taylor Lavati is an enjoyable read. Sure, it could do with some better editing and the world building could've used a little bit of work, but it's still really interesting. Plus, I've learned that Ms. Lavati wrote this book in 30 days for the NaNoWriMo competition. After learning that, my respect for Ms. Lavati went up a lot! To write a book as good as The Thousand Year Curse in 30 days is no small feat. After saying that, I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
I'd recommend this book to those aged 17+ who are after a fantastic book with Greek mythology infusions.
(I was provided with a free paperback copy of this title from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review).
September 19, 2013
The Thousand-Year Curse: Taylor Lavati
High school tends to be a challenge at times but to one 17-year-old girl named Ryder each day is nightmare waiting to happen. With no one to protect her at times she is the subject of ridicule of a girl named Becca and her minions. At times all Ryder wants to do is runaway or hide. Surviving her senior year might be her goal but that is just the tip of what some might say the iceberg when you hear the rest.
Sometimes things happen for a reason and the people we meet might change the course or direction of our lives. What would you do if you found out that you were half human and half goddess? What would you do if you learned that after living 500 years your powers will come full circle and you might start to age? The strings are being pulled but not by anyone above ground. Author Taylor Lavati takes readers down deep within the realm of the Underground where Hades rules and Persephone reigns to learn the history behind Ryder’s ancestry, her true heritage and her future. What would you do if you learned that each time you were found by your two lovers you died? What happens and how this all ties together are presented in The Thousand-Year Curse by debut author Taylor Lavati.
Ryder has been experiencing some weird moments. At times she has visions that take her to places she has never been. Other times she enters the Underground realm and sees herself dead, her soul pulled from her body and meets Hades and Persephone thinking they are trying to help her yet not realizing that they are playing with her for sport. Cruel, unfeeling and definitely manipulating her life, her future and her relationships, Ryder will learn the harsh truth but let’s hope it’s in time to save her.
Everyone needs someone to watch their back and support them no matter what happens. Ryder’s father is really great and enjoys spending time with her but Ryder never divulges the fact that she is being bullied in school, the strange physical changes that she has encountered, the reason things break or the truth behind what she is about to learn. Added in the author shares that Ryder’s mother left her and her dad and has not been heard from since.
Things heat up within the first month of school when Ryder meets Ollie in a chance encounter and then Ari adds to the mix. Just who are these two gorgeous guys who can’t seem to get enough of Ryder? Why does her best friend Junior seem to team up with Ollie? Why is it that Ollie has this mysterious and mystical quality about him that causes people to just do what he says? Is it the music he plays or is it something else?
Getting to know both Ollie and Ari they seem like two typical teens who are vying for the attention of one young girl. But, looks are deceiving, actions are not what they appear and the truth behind why they are attending her school and who they are will definitely surprise not only Ryder but readers too. Ryder’s real name is Eurydice and although she would like to live a normal teenage life now that she met these two that’s not possible. Would you believe it if I told you that Eurydice or Ryder lived long ago during the time of Orpheus and that Ollie/Orpheus and Ari/ Aristeus are both Greek Gods sent to find Ryder/Eurydice and bring her back. Learning some information from Ollie and more from Ari, Ryder decides it’s time to learn the rest from the man in charge down below. Wanting to take a trip to the place where no one wants to wind up when gone, Hades, and meet the two that reign, she convinces Ari to find out how to enter the portal, pay for the trip and then needs to convince her best friend to cover for her while she is gone.
Ryder is headstrong and at times does not think things through. Wanting to be with both guys her emotions are often rattled, she becomes confused and whichever one is in front of her that’s who she wants. But, does she really ever get a hold on her emotions? Finding her way to Ollie when upset with other situations and the dreams that she has that are all too real, Ryder decides to take that one step that many girls her age wait for but often do not, and enters his bedroom and gives him her heart body and soul. Ryder seems whipped at times and does not always stand up for herself and she also gives into these two guys too easily.
The intimate scene between Ryder and Ollie was done tactfully and in good taste, as it did not go overboard in the description leaving something for the reader to wonder. The awkwardness that she displays is quite normal. The hesitation at first and his fear that he might hurt her made the scene more believable. Ryder and Junior accept too much at face value at times and the fact that Junior convinces her father to allow her to go on a skiing trip and does not ask where, when or why seems a little too easy. Most parents of teens would want to know more. But, since it is Junior, I guess he trusts him. Off to Hades she goes and now things will heat up but before they do she reenters her room and finds herself back in the cave that seems to appear in her dreams sees Ari and the scene is chilling. Trust is one underlying theme that comes through as Ryder and Junior would not betray each other’s trust or will they in order to survive? Teens can learn that believing everything at face value and taking what others say, as gospel is not always the right thing to do. Should she have confided in her father when these strange things happened? What about her mother does he know?
Each time Ollie wants to remind Ryder of his feelings he leaves a Rose on her pillow or somewhere where she can find it with a note letting her know he is not far away. The Rose seems to symbolize his love for her, which he feels, is eternal. Ryder is a half goddess and her mother is one too. Trying to find her along with hoping to end this thousand-year curse placed on her is her goal. But, meeting Hades and entering his world will do more than burn up the pages of this book and have readers looking for something cold. Ryder finds out that she has been reincarnated and each time these two find her she will die a horrific and painful death. Just what is the reason for the curse has yet to be revealed? What is the curse? How does this intersect with her mother? Will it?
Each chapter has its own heading allowing readers to know what events will happen next. The one that begins with The River of Pain takes both Ryder and Ari down into Hades, through overcoming many obstacles, the river of pain, the river of wailing, punishment and places where those that were really evil or bad wind up, those that are neutral in Oblivion and those that are good find solace somewhere else as Ryder learns more about being a Nephilim and she explores her powers.
An ordinary teen transformed into a semi goddess. Flighty at times, trying to be loyal to one and yet finding it hard to resist the other as Ari shares his back story with readers as to how and why he met Ryder. Entering Hell, meeting Hades and the end result is quite compelling as Ryder comes face to face with a dream that would bring her farther from finding her mother, distance her from both Ari and Ollie plus put a strain on her friendship with Junior. Sometimes the only course of action is to stand-alone and finds your own way. Insecure, naïve in many ways and yet headstrong, she opts for Nephilim school, forges an acceptance letter and then finds out what happens when deceit and betrayals might mark her way to finding her true path.
An ending that will take your breath away and a young girl that is just starting to find her way. What is next for her as she starts school and meets new people? Will she find her mother? Which goddess is her mother? All of these questions and more will be answered in Book Two: A Curse Books Novel. Would you want to take a trip down below? Join Ari, Ollie and Ryder and you decide! This book gets Four and half stars.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
High school tends to be a challenge at times but to one 17-year-old girl named Ryder each day is nightmare waiting to happen. With no one to protect her at times she is the subject of ridicule of a girl named Becca and her minions. At times all Ryder wants to do is runaway or hide. Surviving her senior year might be her goal but that is just the tip of what some might say the iceberg when you hear the rest.
Sometimes things happen for a reason and the people we meet might change the course or direction of our lives. What would you do if you found out that you were half human and half goddess? What would you do if you learned that after living 500 years your powers will come full circle and you might start to age? The strings are being pulled but not by anyone above ground. Author Taylor Lavati takes readers down deep within the realm of the Underground where Hades rules and Persephone reigns to learn the history behind Ryder’s ancestry, her true heritage and her future. What would you do if you learned that each time you were found by your two lovers you died? What happens and how this all ties together are presented in The Thousand-Year Curse by debut author Taylor Lavati.
Ryder has been experiencing some weird moments. At times she has visions that take her to places she has never been. Other times she enters the Underground realm and sees herself dead, her soul pulled from her body and meets Hades and Persephone thinking they are trying to help her yet not realizing that they are playing with her for sport. Cruel, unfeeling and definitely manipulating her life, her future and her relationships, Ryder will learn the harsh truth but let’s hope it’s in time to save her.
Everyone needs someone to watch their back and support them no matter what happens. Ryder’s father is really great and enjoys spending time with her but Ryder never divulges the fact that she is being bullied in school, the strange physical changes that she has encountered, the reason things break or the truth behind what she is about to learn. Added in the author shares that Ryder’s mother left her and her dad and has not been heard from since.
Things heat up within the first month of school when Ryder meets Ollie in a chance encounter and then Ari adds to the mix. Just who are these two gorgeous guys who can’t seem to get enough of Ryder? Why does her best friend Junior seem to team up with Ollie? Why is it that Ollie has this mysterious and mystical quality about him that causes people to just do what he says? Is it the music he plays or is it something else?
Getting to know both Ollie and Ari they seem like two typical teens who are vying for the attention of one young girl. But, looks are deceiving, actions are not what they appear and the truth behind why they are attending her school and who they are will definitely surprise not only Ryder but readers too. Ryder’s real name is Eurydice and although she would like to live a normal teenage life now that she met these two that’s not possible. Would you believe it if I told you that Eurydice or Ryder lived long ago during the time of Orpheus and that Ollie/Orpheus and Ari/ Aristeus are both Greek Gods sent to find Ryder/Eurydice and bring her back. Learning some information from Ollie and more from Ari, Ryder decides it’s time to learn the rest from the man in charge down below. Wanting to take a trip to the place where no one wants to wind up when gone, Hades, and meet the two that reign, she convinces Ari to find out how to enter the portal, pay for the trip and then needs to convince her best friend to cover for her while she is gone.
Ryder is headstrong and at times does not think things through. Wanting to be with both guys her emotions are often rattled, she becomes confused and whichever one is in front of her that’s who she wants. But, does she really ever get a hold on her emotions? Finding her way to Ollie when upset with other situations and the dreams that she has that are all too real, Ryder decides to take that one step that many girls her age wait for but often do not, and enters his bedroom and gives him her heart body and soul. Ryder seems whipped at times and does not always stand up for herself and she also gives into these two guys too easily.
The intimate scene between Ryder and Ollie was done tactfully and in good taste, as it did not go overboard in the description leaving something for the reader to wonder. The awkwardness that she displays is quite normal. The hesitation at first and his fear that he might hurt her made the scene more believable. Ryder and Junior accept too much at face value at times and the fact that Junior convinces her father to allow her to go on a skiing trip and does not ask where, when or why seems a little too easy. Most parents of teens would want to know more. But, since it is Junior, I guess he trusts him. Off to Hades she goes and now things will heat up but before they do she reenters her room and finds herself back in the cave that seems to appear in her dreams sees Ari and the scene is chilling. Trust is one underlying theme that comes through as Ryder and Junior would not betray each other’s trust or will they in order to survive? Teens can learn that believing everything at face value and taking what others say, as gospel is not always the right thing to do. Should she have confided in her father when these strange things happened? What about her mother does he know?
Each time Ollie wants to remind Ryder of his feelings he leaves a Rose on her pillow or somewhere where she can find it with a note letting her know he is not far away. The Rose seems to symbolize his love for her, which he feels, is eternal. Ryder is a half goddess and her mother is one too. Trying to find her along with hoping to end this thousand-year curse placed on her is her goal. But, meeting Hades and entering his world will do more than burn up the pages of this book and have readers looking for something cold. Ryder finds out that she has been reincarnated and each time these two find her she will die a horrific and painful death. Just what is the reason for the curse has yet to be revealed? What is the curse? How does this intersect with her mother? Will it?
Each chapter has its own heading allowing readers to know what events will happen next. The one that begins with The River of Pain takes both Ryder and Ari down into Hades, through overcoming many obstacles, the river of pain, the river of wailing, punishment and places where those that were really evil or bad wind up, those that are neutral in Oblivion and those that are good find solace somewhere else as Ryder learns more about being a Nephilim and she explores her powers.
An ordinary teen transformed into a semi goddess. Flighty at times, trying to be loyal to one and yet finding it hard to resist the other as Ari shares his back story with readers as to how and why he met Ryder. Entering Hell, meeting Hades and the end result is quite compelling as Ryder comes face to face with a dream that would bring her farther from finding her mother, distance her from both Ari and Ollie plus put a strain on her friendship with Junior. Sometimes the only course of action is to stand-alone and finds your own way. Insecure, naïve in many ways and yet headstrong, she opts for Nephilim school, forges an acceptance letter and then finds out what happens when deceit and betrayals might mark her way to finding her true path.
An ending that will take your breath away and a young girl that is just starting to find her way. What is next for her as she starts school and meets new people? Will she find her mother? Which goddess is her mother? All of these questions and more will be answered in Book Two: A Curse Books Novel. Would you want to take a trip down below? Join Ari, Ollie and Ryder and you decide! This book gets Four and half stars.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
August 30, 2013
The Thousand Year Curse by Taylor Lavati (ARC)
Dani's rating: 4 stars
This review can also be found at:
http://awalkonwords.blogspot.com/
Dani's Review:
Before I say anything about my opinion of this novel, I would like to make a few points. 1) This is a SELF-PUBLISHED novel. 2) This is a DEBUT novel. 3) The author is very, very young to be publishing a book. 4) She wrote this novel for the NaNoWriMo writing contest! For those of you who don't know what it is, it is a challenge to write a full-length 50,000 novel in only 30 days during the month of November. 5) I am basing my review off of an ARC copy. The final copy is most likely better than the copy I read.
Let's all give a round of applause to Taylor for her achievements! :)
I enjoyed The Thousand Year Curse, but some parts of it disappointed me. The plot structure, character development, and Greek mythology concepts were great, but it didn't have that special sparkle. The cake was there, but it didn't have much icing or decoration. The imagery was almost nonexistent and some sentences didn't quite flow. I felt like some chapters were well put together while others were jumbled and crammed together as if the author was writing it in a hurry. Oh wait, Taylor somewhat was in a hurry. The very first copy of this 334 page novel was written in 30 days.
The Thousand Year Curse needs a good, thorough edit. It has the potential to be amazing, but it needs some help in terms of the flow of the writing. Some scenes captured my attention and had me tearing through the pages, but others were "bleh" and I skimmed it.
This novel's greatest quality? The plot.
Ryder is a teenage girl in her senior year who was besties with the most popular girl of her grade until a misunderstanding occurred a few years ago. Now? For lack of a better term, she is a nobody. She doesn't have any friends except a boy named Junior. And even worse, she has strange visions of people she's never seen before! Ryder doesn't think she's anything special--until two extremely attractive boys arrive at her school and begin to fight for her attention.
I liked that Ryder is an "ordinary" teenager who can't fly, can't cast spells, can't drink blood, and is just trying to survive high school. Lately I've been reading a lot of paranormal novels, and it was nice to read something different. The author does a good job of helping the reader get to know Ryder and the two boys in the love triangle, Ollie and Ari. Now those were two well created characters ;) The dialogue and banter between the three was entertaining and hilarious. It was fun to read Ollie and Ari's confrontations! So much tension floating around in the air...and testosterone!
Greek mythology plays a huge part in this novel. After the "Omg I can't believe it I'm cursed half- goddess no what this can't be true"part, the reader dives headfirst into Underworld. Literally. Ollie and Ari seemed sorta stupid considering who they are...I don't want to spoil anything but I'm sure you can guess that they are characters from Greek mythology! While reading I was thinking, "Really? After who knows how many years of being alive, you still don't know all the gods and goddesses? You don't even know their animal symbols?"
Unfortunately, there isn't much action. This is definitely a romance novel. Ollie and Ryder are great characters who really are the reason a reader doesn't stop reading after the first few chapters. The reader wants to know how this love triangle will end--Ollie or Ryder?
A pretty good read, but definitely not perfect. If you want a quick read with a ton of romance and Greek mythology, The Thousand Year Curse is for you! Seriously, consider reading this book :)
--Dani
Dani's rating: 4 stars
This review can also be found at:
http://awalkonwords.blogspot.com/
Dani's Review:
Before I say anything about my opinion of this novel, I would like to make a few points. 1) This is a SELF-PUBLISHED novel. 2) This is a DEBUT novel. 3) The author is very, very young to be publishing a book. 4) She wrote this novel for the NaNoWriMo writing contest! For those of you who don't know what it is, it is a challenge to write a full-length 50,000 novel in only 30 days during the month of November. 5) I am basing my review off of an ARC copy. The final copy is most likely better than the copy I read.
Let's all give a round of applause to Taylor for her achievements! :)
I enjoyed The Thousand Year Curse, but some parts of it disappointed me. The plot structure, character development, and Greek mythology concepts were great, but it didn't have that special sparkle. The cake was there, but it didn't have much icing or decoration. The imagery was almost nonexistent and some sentences didn't quite flow. I felt like some chapters were well put together while others were jumbled and crammed together as if the author was writing it in a hurry. Oh wait, Taylor somewhat was in a hurry. The very first copy of this 334 page novel was written in 30 days.
The Thousand Year Curse needs a good, thorough edit. It has the potential to be amazing, but it needs some help in terms of the flow of the writing. Some scenes captured my attention and had me tearing through the pages, but others were "bleh" and I skimmed it.
This novel's greatest quality? The plot.
Ryder is a teenage girl in her senior year who was besties with the most popular girl of her grade until a misunderstanding occurred a few years ago. Now? For lack of a better term, she is a nobody. She doesn't have any friends except a boy named Junior. And even worse, she has strange visions of people she's never seen before! Ryder doesn't think she's anything special--until two extremely attractive boys arrive at her school and begin to fight for her attention.
I liked that Ryder is an "ordinary" teenager who can't fly, can't cast spells, can't drink blood, and is just trying to survive high school. Lately I've been reading a lot of paranormal novels, and it was nice to read something different. The author does a good job of helping the reader get to know Ryder and the two boys in the love triangle, Ollie and Ari. Now those were two well created characters ;) The dialogue and banter between the three was entertaining and hilarious. It was fun to read Ollie and Ari's confrontations! So much tension floating around in the air...and testosterone!
Greek mythology plays a huge part in this novel. After the "Omg I can't believe it I'm cursed half- goddess no what this can't be true"part, the reader dives headfirst into Underworld. Literally. Ollie and Ari seemed sorta stupid considering who they are...I don't want to spoil anything but I'm sure you can guess that they are characters from Greek mythology! While reading I was thinking, "Really? After who knows how many years of being alive, you still don't know all the gods and goddesses? You don't even know their animal symbols?"
Unfortunately, there isn't much action. This is definitely a romance novel. Ollie and Ryder are great characters who really are the reason a reader doesn't stop reading after the first few chapters. The reader wants to know how this love triangle will end--Ollie or Ryder?
A pretty good read, but definitely not perfect. If you want a quick read with a ton of romance and Greek mythology, The Thousand Year Curse is for you! Seriously, consider reading this book :)
--Dani
December 14, 2013
So, I kind of really enjoyed this book. I was supposed to read it months ago, but as mentioned, my e-reader gave up the ghost. It then became a struggle to find a new reader and recontact all the author's who gave me copies of their books for reviews. Taylor Lavati was one. She contacted me a couple of weeks ago letting me know part 2 of her "The Curse" series. I reminded her that I did not have a chance to finish part I, so she resent it in a format I can read.
I am so glad she did. This is a first book from a young, up and coming, author. She has a gift, a knack in writing. I cannot wait to read book II. For a first time author, Taylor has me intrigued. She has me captured and eager to find out more about the lives of her characters. She is a strong author when it comes to character buiding and detailing. She has done phenomenal research to assist in her character development. I am usually turned away by young adult or over sexualized stories, but Taylor does a fantastic job of keeping it "real" and not so over the top.
The Thousand Year Curse follows Eurydice, aka Ryder, through her trials and tribulations as senior in high school. Relentlessly bullied by a previous best friend, Ryder wants to just get through this last year of school without troubles. She only has her father to lean on as well as her best friend Junior; the only one who has ever stood up to her bully Becca.
In comes Ollie, aka Orpheus, who falls for Ryder, and Ryder falls for him. Things seem to going stellar, well kind of.
Ryder starts having some pretty strong visions and dreams. Compile the odd visions with her new strength and abilities, she is at a total loss as what has come over her. In her visions she sees a handsome man with green eyes. In comes Ari, aka Aristaeus, to teaches her and tells her who she really is. Ryder sets out to confront Hades, God of the Underworld, in hopes to find out who she is, and more importantly who her mother is.
Overall View:
I really enjoyed this book! I definitely look foward to book II. I NEED to know what's going on with Ryder. Who she chooses as her soul mate. If she can actually change her fate. Who the heck her mother is. Does Becca ever get what's coming to her?
I am so glad she did. This is a first book from a young, up and coming, author. She has a gift, a knack in writing. I cannot wait to read book II. For a first time author, Taylor has me intrigued. She has me captured and eager to find out more about the lives of her characters. She is a strong author when it comes to character buiding and detailing. She has done phenomenal research to assist in her character development. I am usually turned away by young adult or over sexualized stories, but Taylor does a fantastic job of keeping it "real" and not so over the top.
The Thousand Year Curse follows Eurydice, aka Ryder, through her trials and tribulations as senior in high school. Relentlessly bullied by a previous best friend, Ryder wants to just get through this last year of school without troubles. She only has her father to lean on as well as her best friend Junior; the only one who has ever stood up to her bully Becca.
In comes Ollie, aka Orpheus, who falls for Ryder, and Ryder falls for him. Things seem to going stellar, well kind of.
Ryder starts having some pretty strong visions and dreams. Compile the odd visions with her new strength and abilities, she is at a total loss as what has come over her. In her visions she sees a handsome man with green eyes. In comes Ari, aka Aristaeus, to teaches her and tells her who she really is. Ryder sets out to confront Hades, God of the Underworld, in hopes to find out who she is, and more importantly who her mother is.
Overall View:
I really enjoyed this book! I definitely look foward to book II. I NEED to know what's going on with Ryder. Who she chooses as her soul mate. If she can actually change her fate. Who the heck her mother is. Does Becca ever get what's coming to her?
May 27, 2014
The plot of the book has already been expressed in the synopsis and other reviews, so I won’t dwell on it here. I’m coming at this from the perspective of a middle aged man who doesn’t normally read young adult or romance. Indeed, there are aspects of both genres that annoy the daylights out of me, but I enjoyed this book. The author perfectly expresses the thoughts of a teenage girl with the emotional issues Ryder has. I’ve raised daughters and taught middle school and high school, so I’ve seen these thought processes and emotions in action. It was very nice to watch Ryder become an actualized person. She starts out as needy, but as the story progresses, so does she. By the end of the story she has made significant progress in strengthening herself, though she still has a way to go. But since this is the first book in a series, that’s how it should be. As the story progressed, I got to where I liked Ari better than Ollie. Ari was willing to trust Ryder with the truth while Ollie tried to shield her from it. Ollie came across as overprotective, but maybe he had a good reason that will be revealed in subsequent stories? We’ll just have to wait and see. One thing this story really opened my eyes to was how condescending it can be when guys try to “protect” women. Seeing it through Ryder’s eyes showed how maddening it can be. As a guy raised with Victorian values, that was something I’d never really understood before, but by seeing Ollie try to protect Ryder, I could see how stifling it is and felt Ryder’s frustration, and I cheered when she told both guys to pound sand, she was going to do what she’d made up her mind to do. As others have pointed out, there are punctuation and spelling errors, and as a grammar nazi I can’t ignore them. There are a few areas that could be polished up, where the wording could be a bit smoother. But overall I liked the story, and since I’m not really a fan of the genre, I think that says something very positive about Ms. Lavati’s story.
December 12, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
This is the first book of the series. We meet a girl named Ryder. She is an outsider who has big anxiety issues. She also has a best friend named Junior who is a great character. She goes through high school trying to be unnoticed and staying under the radar from the local bullies. Weird things began happening such as super strength. She finds out that she is a cursed half goddess. She is now stuck in a never ending bizarre love triangle.
I loved this book. It read smoothly and I found the situations to be believable. I found Ryder to be complex and likeable. I turned out to be rutting for her the entire series. Now let's talk boys. We all want to know about the boys.
We have in the blue corner Ollie. He is nice and sweet with the bluest eyes. He is also a little over bearing and protective. He is a gentleman who enjoys big trucks and is absolutely head over heels for Ryder. I liked Ollie and was happy watching him and Ryder falling in love.
In the green corner we have Ari. He is a green eyed badass. He is a motorcycle riding guy who will stop at nothing to get his love Ryder. He is snarky and brooding. He was fun to read about. His character made me smile a lot and his comments always had to me crack a laugh.
After you read this book I suggest you pick a side because well that is fun. I'm team Ari. I have a hard time saying no to guy on a bike.
Overall I would recommend this book to older YA audience who loves a good curse and an interesting love affair.
This is the first book of the series. We meet a girl named Ryder. She is an outsider who has big anxiety issues. She also has a best friend named Junior who is a great character. She goes through high school trying to be unnoticed and staying under the radar from the local bullies. Weird things began happening such as super strength. She finds out that she is a cursed half goddess. She is now stuck in a never ending bizarre love triangle.
I loved this book. It read smoothly and I found the situations to be believable. I found Ryder to be complex and likeable. I turned out to be rutting for her the entire series. Now let's talk boys. We all want to know about the boys.
We have in the blue corner Ollie. He is nice and sweet with the bluest eyes. He is also a little over bearing and protective. He is a gentleman who enjoys big trucks and is absolutely head over heels for Ryder. I liked Ollie and was happy watching him and Ryder falling in love.
In the green corner we have Ari. He is a green eyed badass. He is a motorcycle riding guy who will stop at nothing to get his love Ryder. He is snarky and brooding. He was fun to read about. His character made me smile a lot and his comments always had to me crack a laugh.
After you read this book I suggest you pick a side because well that is fun. I'm team Ari. I have a hard time saying no to guy on a bike.
Overall I would recommend this book to older YA audience who loves a good curse and an interesting love affair.
November 11, 2013
Review: This is a new take on the Eurydice/Orpheus myth, which as a fan of Meg Cabot's Abandon series I have to say I enjoyed.
Starting out I was greatly confused because the main character, Ryder/Eurydice falls hard for one of the main guys, Ollie Orpheus. I mean, that just tripped me up because the the curse isn't introduced much later which explains why she was so draw to him & fell so hard so fast. I have to say, at the beginning of the book I was not a fan of Ryder because she was pretty depressing & let everyone push her around. I was personally split between knocking some sense into her & just knocking out her bully.
While Ollie had my interest at the beginning, after the introduction on Ari, the other main guy, I started to dislike him. I mean, he kind of turned into a controlling jerk who I just wanted to punch repeatedly with a bat.
The visions she had kept me guessing, the story progressed fluidly & the characters were well developed.
I did however find a number of grammatical errors that tripped me up from time to time, but I also found myself laughing out loud a lot.
I did enjoy this story & look forward to the second installment. Hopefully it will have more butt kicking:)
Starting out I was greatly confused because the main character, Ryder/Eurydice falls hard for one of the main guys, Ollie Orpheus. I mean, that just tripped me up because the the curse isn't introduced much later which explains why she was so draw to him & fell so hard so fast. I have to say, at the beginning of the book I was not a fan of Ryder because she was pretty depressing & let everyone push her around. I was personally split between knocking some sense into her & just knocking out her bully.
While Ollie had my interest at the beginning, after the introduction on Ari, the other main guy, I started to dislike him. I mean, he kind of turned into a controlling jerk who I just wanted to punch repeatedly with a bat.
The visions she had kept me guessing, the story progressed fluidly & the characters were well developed.
I did however find a number of grammatical errors that tripped me up from time to time, but I also found myself laughing out loud a lot.
I did enjoy this story & look forward to the second installment. Hopefully it will have more butt kicking:)
November 27, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. I thought that the plot was very well done. There were some loose ends that I figure will be tied in the following books but it wasn't a complete cliff hanger. Although I was sad when the book ended, knowing there's two more helps.
PS. When are those coming out?!
I felt bad for Ryder in the beginning of the book but towards the end I can see how she's changing. I think it will be a long journey for her to be a likable, bubbly girl but in the end, I hope I like her. I want to!
Ollie and Ari were awesome characters. I really enjoyed reading their stories and seeing how they all connected. It was really nice to get some background and have the curse layed out in book one.
I hope the next one brings on some action, although in this one all of the scenes in the underworld were really well done. They held true to stories and the history but were done in a modern way. I felt like I was there and the book really picked up.
I can't wait to read what happens next in Ryder's life. It seems like the book ended at a bit of a crossroads and I have a feeling Ryder is going to change a lot. I'm waiting for book two EAGERLY!
Definitely 5/5
PS. When are those coming out?!
I felt bad for Ryder in the beginning of the book but towards the end I can see how she's changing. I think it will be a long journey for her to be a likable, bubbly girl but in the end, I hope I like her. I want to!
Ollie and Ari were awesome characters. I really enjoyed reading their stories and seeing how they all connected. It was really nice to get some background and have the curse layed out in book one.
I hope the next one brings on some action, although in this one all of the scenes in the underworld were really well done. They held true to stories and the history but were done in a modern way. I felt like I was there and the book really picked up.
I can't wait to read what happens next in Ryder's life. It seems like the book ended at a bit of a crossroads and I have a feeling Ryder is going to change a lot. I'm waiting for book two EAGERLY!
Definitely 5/5
November 30, 2014
Good book
Ryder is a quite,shy girl who is being bullied by her ex best friend and she don't know why. She's also having freaky things happen to her. Weird dream blackout spells. She easy breaks things when she touch them. She notice a new guy in school she's seen in her dreams. Then another guy just comes and force a friendship with her. Now this is where I start to have a Twilight flashback. She sleeps with Ollie and the next day she's having feelings for Ari. But it starts to get more interesting when she learns about the curse and who she really is, the daughter of a god. Throw in a trip to the underworld and two guys fighting over her. Now she's going to a new school to learn and control her powers. Finding her mom and breaking the curse is her ultimate goal.
Ryder is a quite,shy girl who is being bullied by her ex best friend and she don't know why. She's also having freaky things happen to her. Weird dream blackout spells. She easy breaks things when she touch them. She notice a new guy in school she's seen in her dreams. Then another guy just comes and force a friendship with her. Now this is where I start to have a Twilight flashback. She sleeps with Ollie and the next day she's having feelings for Ari. But it starts to get more interesting when she learns about the curse and who she really is, the daughter of a god. Throw in a trip to the underworld and two guys fighting over her. Now she's going to a new school to learn and control her powers. Finding her mom and breaking the curse is her ultimate goal.
September 11, 2014
I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading what the author has in story next for Ryder, Ollie, and Ari. The author has given us a different spend on greek gods. There was a perfect amount of suspense, romance and drama. Ryder is a not so popular high school student who has suddenly caught the eyes of not one but two HOT new students. She quickly finds out that there is so much more to her life than she could ever possibly imagine. Hats off to this talented young author on her debut novel.
May 18, 2015
After reading a couple of Taylor Lavati's other works, I jumped into The Thousand Year Curse, especially once I discovered its ties to Greek mythology. High school senior Ryder Mason is being bullied by her ex-best friend and just wants to make it through her last year. As the story progresses, two guys enter her life, both vying for her attention. From there, the story is filled with angst, love, and drama.
The Thousand Year Curse is a fast-paced novel that carries readers on a whirlwind ride. I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
The Thousand Year Curse is a fast-paced novel that carries readers on a whirlwind ride. I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
August 15, 2016
Ryder Mason is a seventeen year old high school student who doesn’t have many friends. She does have her best friend Junior whom she has been friends with since they were little kids. Ryder use to have more friends until the day her best friend Becca started bullying her calling her names and trying to start rumors about her by saying things that were not true. Ryder has no clue as to why she woke up one day and she no longer had a best friend. Ryder hated walking down the halls at school afraid she was going to run into Becca.
But then one day this new guy shows up at school and Ryder is amazed when he wants to hang out with her. Ryder and Ollie hit it off right away. Ryder falls fast and hard for Ollie. It is as if they are soul mates. They start to spend lots and lots of time together and when they are not together Ryder misses him very much. Junior and Ollie hit off as well and become good friends.
Then a few days late another new guy shows up at their school and starts showing up wherever Ryder may be. At first Ryder wants nothing to do with him but as time goes on Ryder starts to enjoy his company as well and she feels as if she has known him all her life. Of course Ollie is very jealous when he sees the two of them together. Junior doesn’t seem to like the idea of Ari and Ryder being together either. But little ‘ole Ryder is very confused as she likes both guys. What is a girl to do when she has two boyfriends? Which one will she choose?
While dealing with all the boyfriend issues Ryder learns that a curse was placed on her a long time ago and that it also involves Ollie and Ari as well. Hades put a curse on her and she is very tired of it and wants to go to visit him to ask him to remove the curse. But Ollie tells her no she cannot go visit Hades it is too dangerous. But after talking to Ari and asking him to take her he agrees. Ari can never tell her no. When Ollie finds out he is very upset with Ryder and she thinks she has lost her Ollie.
Ryder finds out that her mother is a Goddess and she is also hoping that visiting with Hades; he will then tell her who her mother is. Her mother left her and her Dad a long time ago. Ryder is hoping that her mother may be able to help her with the curse in some way among other things that she would like to talk with her about.
It is kind of amusing to watch her with the guys both of them want nothing more than to please her and make her happy. They both want to keep her safe but they both have a difference of an opinion as to what keeps her safe. You know it’s like Ollie is the kind of guy that wants to keep everything on the low side, calm so to speak and Ari is wants to step things up a bit and fly with the wind. Ari seems like the kind of person that likes to take risk but not Ollie.
This has been one amazing ride that Ryder, Junior, Ollie and Ari have taken me on and I have enjoyed ever last minute of it. I love the change that Ryder is making in her life finally standing up for herself and putting some of her fears behind her or maybe she has just gotten fed up with everything.
I can’t wait to get started on the next book in the series The Curse of Betrayal to see what adventures Ryder, Ollie, Ari and Junior take us on. When I first started reading The Thousand Year Curse I was leaning toward Team Ollie and now after finishing is I am not sure if I am Team Ollie or Team Ari. I am with Ryde how do I choose? But seriously if you have not read The Thousand Year Curse then I would like to recommend that you do.
But then one day this new guy shows up at school and Ryder is amazed when he wants to hang out with her. Ryder and Ollie hit it off right away. Ryder falls fast and hard for Ollie. It is as if they are soul mates. They start to spend lots and lots of time together and when they are not together Ryder misses him very much. Junior and Ollie hit off as well and become good friends.
Then a few days late another new guy shows up at their school and starts showing up wherever Ryder may be. At first Ryder wants nothing to do with him but as time goes on Ryder starts to enjoy his company as well and she feels as if she has known him all her life. Of course Ollie is very jealous when he sees the two of them together. Junior doesn’t seem to like the idea of Ari and Ryder being together either. But little ‘ole Ryder is very confused as she likes both guys. What is a girl to do when she has two boyfriends? Which one will she choose?
While dealing with all the boyfriend issues Ryder learns that a curse was placed on her a long time ago and that it also involves Ollie and Ari as well. Hades put a curse on her and she is very tired of it and wants to go to visit him to ask him to remove the curse. But Ollie tells her no she cannot go visit Hades it is too dangerous. But after talking to Ari and asking him to take her he agrees. Ari can never tell her no. When Ollie finds out he is very upset with Ryder and she thinks she has lost her Ollie.
Ryder finds out that her mother is a Goddess and she is also hoping that visiting with Hades; he will then tell her who her mother is. Her mother left her and her Dad a long time ago. Ryder is hoping that her mother may be able to help her with the curse in some way among other things that she would like to talk with her about.
It is kind of amusing to watch her with the guys both of them want nothing more than to please her and make her happy. They both want to keep her safe but they both have a difference of an opinion as to what keeps her safe. You know it’s like Ollie is the kind of guy that wants to keep everything on the low side, calm so to speak and Ari is wants to step things up a bit and fly with the wind. Ari seems like the kind of person that likes to take risk but not Ollie.
This has been one amazing ride that Ryder, Junior, Ollie and Ari have taken me on and I have enjoyed ever last minute of it. I love the change that Ryder is making in her life finally standing up for herself and putting some of her fears behind her or maybe she has just gotten fed up with everything.
I can’t wait to get started on the next book in the series The Curse of Betrayal to see what adventures Ryder, Ollie, Ari and Junior take us on. When I first started reading The Thousand Year Curse I was leaning toward Team Ollie and now after finishing is I am not sure if I am Team Ollie or Team Ari. I am with Ryde how do I choose? But seriously if you have not read The Thousand Year Curse then I would like to recommend that you do.
June 2, 2015
I received a gifted e-book from Taylor Lavati in exchange for an honest opinion. This is Mismousey very honest opinion of her book THOUSAND YEAR CURSE. I am very honored to have been asked to read her book.
This is the very first time I have read anything that Ms. Lavati has written. With that being said, I am so looking forward to reading more of her books. I found this book so filled with excitement and never knew what to expect next. She made the reading so exciting and thrilling.
Ms. Lavati has a very unique way when she picks up her pen and takes it to paper. She creates a fantasy you’re able to see in your mind. Her story is so breath taking – she is able to sweep you away once you open her book. Ms. Lavati has you on the edge of your seat with this page turner paranormal. It keeps your attention all through the entire book. Thousand Year Curse is a fast read, as you will want to know what happens next to our young friend on her journey.
Ms. Lavati is a young author, and has written only 6 books thus far. Currently she is busy writing another one and hopes to have it soon. Thousand Year Curse is book 1 in a three part series. So, yes you will find this book to have a cliff hanger in it. You will need to continue reading the next book in the series which is “CURSE OF THE BETRAYL “
As we start this book we find our young friend Ryder on her way to school. She stops to see if Junior needs a ride. Only to find out that he has caught the school bus. She heads to school- as she arrives the bottom falls out in the sky. The only thing she has to attempt to keep her dry is her backpack.
Ryder gets to class only have her name called over the loud speaker. She is called to the office. Her guidance counselor wants to speak with her. It seems she skipped class. And that is so unlike her- why did she? What caused her to skip and because she has now she has to write a paper on why skipping class is not a good thing. They him will speak more about it later.
Ryder meets up with Junior in the band room after school. Ollie is there with him. He is the new guy. She doesn’t trust him- but Jr says to. The next day at school – Ollie ask her to tutor him. She agrees to and they will meet in the library during 8th period. Now Ollie has her back will not let any harm come to her. He makes sure that all the bulling stops towards Ryder.
But there is so much more going on in this story. As there is a Thousand Year curse. Who does it involve?? How will it be solved?? Does Ryder find out about the curse??
This is a must read for all readers- both young and old. Especially those of you who love a OMG AN OUT OF THIS WORLD HOT PARANORMAL READ!! Mismousey gives this a very rating of 60 out of 5 stars!!!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? THE BOOK IS IN OUR WORLD GET YOUR COPY OF IT NOW!!! RUN –DON’T WALK TO GET IT TODAY !!!! IT’S A HOT & MUST READ!
This is the very first time I have read anything that Ms. Lavati has written. With that being said, I am so looking forward to reading more of her books. I found this book so filled with excitement and never knew what to expect next. She made the reading so exciting and thrilling.
Ms. Lavati has a very unique way when she picks up her pen and takes it to paper. She creates a fantasy you’re able to see in your mind. Her story is so breath taking – she is able to sweep you away once you open her book. Ms. Lavati has you on the edge of your seat with this page turner paranormal. It keeps your attention all through the entire book. Thousand Year Curse is a fast read, as you will want to know what happens next to our young friend on her journey.
Ms. Lavati is a young author, and has written only 6 books thus far. Currently she is busy writing another one and hopes to have it soon. Thousand Year Curse is book 1 in a three part series. So, yes you will find this book to have a cliff hanger in it. You will need to continue reading the next book in the series which is “CURSE OF THE BETRAYL “
As we start this book we find our young friend Ryder on her way to school. She stops to see if Junior needs a ride. Only to find out that he has caught the school bus. She heads to school- as she arrives the bottom falls out in the sky. The only thing she has to attempt to keep her dry is her backpack.
Ryder gets to class only have her name called over the loud speaker. She is called to the office. Her guidance counselor wants to speak with her. It seems she skipped class. And that is so unlike her- why did she? What caused her to skip and because she has now she has to write a paper on why skipping class is not a good thing. They him will speak more about it later.
Ryder meets up with Junior in the band room after school. Ollie is there with him. He is the new guy. She doesn’t trust him- but Jr says to. The next day at school – Ollie ask her to tutor him. She agrees to and they will meet in the library during 8th period. Now Ollie has her back will not let any harm come to her. He makes sure that all the bulling stops towards Ryder.
But there is so much more going on in this story. As there is a Thousand Year curse. Who does it involve?? How will it be solved?? Does Ryder find out about the curse??
This is a must read for all readers- both young and old. Especially those of you who love a OMG AN OUT OF THIS WORLD HOT PARANORMAL READ!! Mismousey gives this a very rating of 60 out of 5 stars!!!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? THE BOOK IS IN OUR WORLD GET YOUR COPY OF IT NOW!!! RUN –DON’T WALK TO GET IT TODAY !!!! IT’S A HOT & MUST READ!
January 14, 2014
*I received this book from the Author in exchange for an Honest Review*
This book follows "Ryder" Mason. A girl who's not as normal as she thinks, with a best friend just as much an outcast as she is, and the two hottest new guys at school (Ollie and Ari) wanting to date her.
I will begin by saying that this book has a lot of editing errors in it. There were several times I had to go back and reread to make sure I'd read correctly and then let my brain replace what needed to fixed. This book can without a doubt use an editing overhaul.
However, despite the amount of errors I noticed within the work, the story itself is amazing. I love the topic of Greek Mythology and when you have two hot gods taking precedence in a story, I'll definitely read it!
The contrasting differences between Ollie and Ari don't just stop at their looks, it goes further to include that even personality wise, the two are polar opposites in everything. Ryder is pretty much your typical outcast girl. Emotional, broken, petrified, and despite having her best friend Junior, she's pretty much alone.
Junior I found to be quite an amusing character. I'd like to see more of him in upcoming books in the series.
Even with all the errors, I found the story engaging, and was absolutely drawn into the world Taylor built for Ryder. The sex scene, there's only one, isn't as steamy as some will like, but it's an emotional scene and one I found myself smiling through. The reader will definitely feel the electricity flowing between Ryder and her boys and will have a hard time figuring out who to root for.
I think anyone that enjoys Greek Mythology, Romance, and stories about people discovering their true worth, will enjoy this book. I know I did and I look forward to getting to read The Curse of Betrayal, the second book in this series.
While I want to give this book a 5, there are just too many errors to overlook. If the author gets them corrected I will adjust my rating. For now though...
I give this book 4 of 5 paws
July 29, 2015
So this book has a ridiculously high rating, unfortunately not one that I think is deserved. If you liked this book, you are completely entitled to your own opinion but I do suggest you stop reading this review now because I’m probably going to rant a little. It will also contain spoilers from here onwards.
Im probably going to read the next book because I have all 3 and im incapable of saying no (much like Ryder apparently), but also im hoping the characterization and writing style improves.
Im probably going to read the next book because I have all 3 and im incapable of saying no (much like Ryder apparently), but also im hoping the characterization and writing style improves.
December 9, 2014
Ryder has to overcome more than her real name Eurydice when she is tossed into the dog house of high school and tormented almost every day by her previous best friend. She feels alone and vulnerable and just wants to make herself disappear, but within the very first month of school the new boy makes her his object of affection. Not too soon after, a second new transfer student gets the hots for her and she gets stuck in a love triangle of mythic proportions.
Integrating mythology into a romance story is a great idea, and Lavati starts out integrating the story of love and curse well into her present day character Ryder. Lavati gives the deepest of reasons for Olli and Ari (the two love interests) to be obsessed with Ryder, which gives the book more intrigue and more grounding.
Then Lavati goes paranormal. The story gets more myth and less reality all the while keeping the love triangle going strong. It is a story of highs and lows in each of Ryder’s relationship and Lavati keeps the reader wondering who this girl will end up with and who is best for her in the end, both according to the curse and according to how each of the boys’ feel about her.
I was entranced by Lavati’s beginning. She hooked me in with the story and the underdog character of Ryder who definitely has some great things coming for her. I was disappointed when Lavati abandoned the underdog altogether to give Ryder some unnecessary superpowers while she is learning to fend for herself in the ultimate battle of her soul. I didn’t think it was necessary for Ryder to have these great powers, but perhaps they will come into more play further in the series. I also thought the love triangle started to become too stereotypical, like that in Twilight, but I’m very glad the guys had a real reason behind their instant attraction.
One plot comment I would make is that the adult situations contained in chapter sixteen weren’t necessary for the story line and could have been left out.
Overall the author does quite well at involving a myth as a motivation and interweaving the past and present to make an epic of higher than normal proportions with greater consequences and greater possibilities. If romance, especially love triangles, and deepening paranormal leaps is your thing, then this could be the book for you.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the steamy love triangle of Twighlight or integrating myths into a novel.
Integrating mythology into a romance story is a great idea, and Lavati starts out integrating the story of love and curse well into her present day character Ryder. Lavati gives the deepest of reasons for Olli and Ari (the two love interests) to be obsessed with Ryder, which gives the book more intrigue and more grounding.
Then Lavati goes paranormal. The story gets more myth and less reality all the while keeping the love triangle going strong. It is a story of highs and lows in each of Ryder’s relationship and Lavati keeps the reader wondering who this girl will end up with and who is best for her in the end, both according to the curse and according to how each of the boys’ feel about her.
I was entranced by Lavati’s beginning. She hooked me in with the story and the underdog character of Ryder who definitely has some great things coming for her. I was disappointed when Lavati abandoned the underdog altogether to give Ryder some unnecessary superpowers while she is learning to fend for herself in the ultimate battle of her soul. I didn’t think it was necessary for Ryder to have these great powers, but perhaps they will come into more play further in the series. I also thought the love triangle started to become too stereotypical, like that in Twilight, but I’m very glad the guys had a real reason behind their instant attraction.
One plot comment I would make is that the adult situations contained in chapter sixteen weren’t necessary for the story line and could have been left out.
Overall the author does quite well at involving a myth as a motivation and interweaving the past and present to make an epic of higher than normal proportions with greater consequences and greater possibilities. If romance, especially love triangles, and deepening paranormal leaps is your thing, then this could be the book for you.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys the steamy love triangle of Twighlight or integrating myths into a novel.
September 21, 2013
Review to come. 3.5 stars
I adore Greek mythology based books. When the author asked if I would like a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review, I totally jumped at the chance after reading the synopsis.
Ryder Mason is about to enter her senior year. For reasons unknown to her, her best friend has turned into her enemy and is a total schmuck hellbent on making Ryder's life miserable. And Becca does a damn fine job at being a malicious tart. Enter the new kids, Ollie & Ari, both handsome, both alluring, both showing up in Ryder's dreams...
Suddenly, this bullied girl who has collapsed on herself has two hot guys vying for her attention. Her best friend, Junior, sides with Ollie who shares his love of music. But it's Ari that seems more honest with her, who answers her questions...
This was an excellent start to what should be a promising series. Steeped in Greek mythology, Ryder (real name Eurydice) discovers that not only is she an old soul re-incarnated over and over again, but this time, she's a demigoddess or Nephilim. It changes the game as this time she could live as long as 500 years and have a long life with either Ari or Ollie...which will she choose? Who is her mother, who ran off after she was born? What other powers will she be developing as a Nephilim? She is already becoming faster, stronger, and having premonitions when she sleeps...
I enjoyed this tale by debut author Taylor Lavati. There were several grammatical/spelling mistakes (mostly homonyms) that interrupted reader zone a bit, but nothing too bad. I was annoyed at Ryder and how easily she goes from boyfriend to boyfriend, but that's a judgement call on my part. Since she is a reincarnated soul, she may have residual feelings from other lives she has shared with both Ollie (Orpheus) and Ari (Aristeus) as she has loved both, she's inexplicably attracted to both, etc.
I hope demi-goddess school treats her better than human high school and I look forward to reading more about her journey to discover her mother and if those prophetic dreams regarding her mother come true! And who will be by her side? Ollie or Ari? They are very high-handed when it comes to Ryder and the decisions that they make! Geesh!
I adore Greek mythology based books. When the author asked if I would like a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review, I totally jumped at the chance after reading the synopsis.
Ryder Mason is about to enter her senior year. For reasons unknown to her, her best friend has turned into her enemy and is a total schmuck hellbent on making Ryder's life miserable. And Becca does a damn fine job at being a malicious tart. Enter the new kids, Ollie & Ari, both handsome, both alluring, both showing up in Ryder's dreams...
Suddenly, this bullied girl who has collapsed on herself has two hot guys vying for her attention. Her best friend, Junior, sides with Ollie who shares his love of music. But it's Ari that seems more honest with her, who answers her questions...
This was an excellent start to what should be a promising series. Steeped in Greek mythology, Ryder (real name Eurydice) discovers that not only is she an old soul re-incarnated over and over again, but this time, she's a demigoddess or Nephilim. It changes the game as this time she could live as long as 500 years and have a long life with either Ari or Ollie...which will she choose? Who is her mother, who ran off after she was born? What other powers will she be developing as a Nephilim? She is already becoming faster, stronger, and having premonitions when she sleeps...
I enjoyed this tale by debut author Taylor Lavati. There were several grammatical/spelling mistakes (mostly homonyms) that interrupted reader zone a bit, but nothing too bad. I was annoyed at Ryder and how easily she goes from boyfriend to boyfriend, but that's a judgement call on my part. Since she is a reincarnated soul, she may have residual feelings from other lives she has shared with both Ollie (Orpheus) and Ari (Aristeus) as she has loved both, she's inexplicably attracted to both, etc.
I hope demi-goddess school treats her better than human high school and I look forward to reading more about her journey to discover her mother and if those prophetic dreams regarding her mother come true! And who will be by her side? Ollie or Ari? They are very high-handed when it comes to Ryder and the decisions that they make! Geesh!
October 22, 2013
I recently read a book that involved Greek Mythology, and the Underworld etc. so when I read the synopsis I was worried that I would find this book similar and struggle with it – but I was so wrong! The Greek Mythology connections were the only similarities between the two books, and I found myself flipping so quickly through the pages of this one I enjoyed it so much,
Ryder is a kind of loner, with one best friend, and an ex best friend who is now a vicious bully. She lives alone with her dad after her mother abandoned her and lives a pretty quiet life. Until Ollie and Ari start at the school.
I really enjoyed the relationship Ryder and Ollie had, and I get the Ari was the bad boy, and lets face it, ladies can’t resist a bad boy! But the reason I knocked a star off my review was because of the way Ryder accused Ollie of being too controlling – it didn’t really come across that way to me. More could have been done to make him look more controlling, he came across as just a concerned boyfriend to me, and given the history I couldn’t blame him. The fact Ryder actually has the soul of Eurydice and Ollie and Ari are the sons of Greek gods who fell in love with the original Eurydice who then had a curse put on her, I can understand the concern!
I also found that Ryder didn’t seem to put up as much of a struggle when it came to fighting her feelings as she tried to make out she did. I liked the fact that she was a strong, feisty character and this was a real flaw for me and it was a slight let down.
Other than that the rest of the story was pretty good, and I really enjoyed their journey into the Underworld, I could have read a few more chapters of that, it was pretty good.
I was going to suggest this book to my daughter and her friends, until I got to a sex scene! For a book that I would have classed as a YA until then, I was quite shocked at just how steamy it was! I would now hold off on my daughter reading this book until she is about 16!
I also just read that the author is only 22 and this is her first, and self published, book, and I think she has done a great job and I look forward to reading the next instalment!
Ryder is a kind of loner, with one best friend, and an ex best friend who is now a vicious bully. She lives alone with her dad after her mother abandoned her and lives a pretty quiet life. Until Ollie and Ari start at the school.
I really enjoyed the relationship Ryder and Ollie had, and I get the Ari was the bad boy, and lets face it, ladies can’t resist a bad boy! But the reason I knocked a star off my review was because of the way Ryder accused Ollie of being too controlling – it didn’t really come across that way to me. More could have been done to make him look more controlling, he came across as just a concerned boyfriend to me, and given the history I couldn’t blame him. The fact Ryder actually has the soul of Eurydice and Ollie and Ari are the sons of Greek gods who fell in love with the original Eurydice who then had a curse put on her, I can understand the concern!
I also found that Ryder didn’t seem to put up as much of a struggle when it came to fighting her feelings as she tried to make out she did. I liked the fact that she was a strong, feisty character and this was a real flaw for me and it was a slight let down.
Other than that the rest of the story was pretty good, and I really enjoyed their journey into the Underworld, I could have read a few more chapters of that, it was pretty good.
I was going to suggest this book to my daughter and her friends, until I got to a sex scene! For a book that I would have classed as a YA until then, I was quite shocked at just how steamy it was! I would now hold off on my daughter reading this book until she is about 16!
I also just read that the author is only 22 and this is her first, and self published, book, and I think she has done a great job and I look forward to reading the next instalment!
June 9, 2014
One for readers at the older end of the YA spectrum, The Thousand Year Curse is clearly the work of a gifted young writer. The plot and the basic premise have already been spelled out by other reviewers but what struck me most about the book was the deft and surprisingly mature touch of the author.
Whereas other writers might have been swift and heavy-handed with their hints that all is not as it seems with Ryder's life and background, Taylor Lavati builds the interest by keeping a tight focus on human feelings. She makes Ryder someone who feels alien for very human reasons - not as a result of harbouring something obviously supernatural. It makes her very believable and someone for whom the reader can feel. The light narrative touch is excellent. There are some subtle suggestions that something peculiar is going on but these are developed only gradually as the plot progresses.
Structurally, I think there is some room for improvement - I felt that this first book needs more of a sense of denouement in order for it to work as a novel in its own right, so it ends with the key questions unanswered. However, many YA readers will doubtless welcome this; I'm confident that lovers of teen romance and magical fantasy will be delighted to know that there is much more to come.
It's also arguable that Ryder lacks a certain forcefulness of character - that the plot only really ever moves on when one or both of her suitors are on the scene - but given that this is only the first part of her story and that exceptionally strange things are happening to her, it seems to me only natural that she is still finding her feet. We do not yet see her transformed into some wonderfully empowered and self-assured young woman, but there are strong signs that this transformation will come in time.
For me, the best aspect of this novel was the author's portrayal of the feelings of her characters. The dialogue was spot-on, as were Ryder's reactions to the events that unfolded around her, so in human terms, I felt the story always remained credible and compelling. That's an impressive achievement and one that augurs well for the sequel.
Whereas other writers might have been swift and heavy-handed with their hints that all is not as it seems with Ryder's life and background, Taylor Lavati builds the interest by keeping a tight focus on human feelings. She makes Ryder someone who feels alien for very human reasons - not as a result of harbouring something obviously supernatural. It makes her very believable and someone for whom the reader can feel. The light narrative touch is excellent. There are some subtle suggestions that something peculiar is going on but these are developed only gradually as the plot progresses.
Structurally, I think there is some room for improvement - I felt that this first book needs more of a sense of denouement in order for it to work as a novel in its own right, so it ends with the key questions unanswered. However, many YA readers will doubtless welcome this; I'm confident that lovers of teen romance and magical fantasy will be delighted to know that there is much more to come.
It's also arguable that Ryder lacks a certain forcefulness of character - that the plot only really ever moves on when one or both of her suitors are on the scene - but given that this is only the first part of her story and that exceptionally strange things are happening to her, it seems to me only natural that she is still finding her feet. We do not yet see her transformed into some wonderfully empowered and self-assured young woman, but there are strong signs that this transformation will come in time.
For me, the best aspect of this novel was the author's portrayal of the feelings of her characters. The dialogue was spot-on, as were Ryder's reactions to the events that unfolded around her, so in human terms, I felt the story always remained credible and compelling. That's an impressive achievement and one that augurs well for the sequel.
November 22, 2015
I really enjoyed this book and the story that is very well written and is in some case uniqueue, or at least I havent read book with some of the elements of it. I dont want to give any spoilers so Im not gonna say more.
The characters are very well created and feels real. The main character is Ryder and I must confess I dont like her, she is a 17 year old spoild girl and one day things gets taken away from her and instead of growing up, she starts moaning and blaming the world. But sure she grows a little bit on me but most of the time I get so annoyed and she I really hates the way she acts. I screamed at my phone while reading it because I really felt she was stupid.
The main story itself isnt unique and I have read tones of similar stories. A love story about a girl and 2 guys and she dont know who to choose. Sounds familiar? just like that I can name at least 2 huge books that has become movies or TV shows. Parts of it felt like it was a bit of copy cat from other work like The Twilight Saga and Vampire Diaries. Even if it is inspired from that, I dont know, but its is still delievered in a good way and in a way that makes it different from above mentioned books/moviestv shows...
The language is good but I have read better from this author, and I know this is her first published novel and for being that, its good job but I do want more from it. This book is for young adults and I think it is very noticable but still there is no problem reading it as an adult. I am an adult reading and enjoying the book.
It is very hard to put down the book when you have started reading it and that is a good thing. I like books that has a natural good flow in them. The length of the book is perfect and I wouldnt add anything to this, the first book in the seriest or even take anything away from it.
I can recommend the book. It is very nice and the story is good. I cant give the book 5 stars because I feel there is something missing in it, and it is to similar to other work. But still a very readable and enjoyable book that I really can recommend to other, both adults and young adults.
The characters are very well created and feels real. The main character is Ryder and I must confess I dont like her, she is a 17 year old spoild girl and one day things gets taken away from her and instead of growing up, she starts moaning and blaming the world. But sure she grows a little bit on me but most of the time I get so annoyed and she I really hates the way she acts. I screamed at my phone while reading it because I really felt she was stupid.
The main story itself isnt unique and I have read tones of similar stories. A love story about a girl and 2 guys and she dont know who to choose. Sounds familiar? just like that I can name at least 2 huge books that has become movies or TV shows. Parts of it felt like it was a bit of copy cat from other work like The Twilight Saga and Vampire Diaries. Even if it is inspired from that, I dont know, but its is still delievered in a good way and in a way that makes it different from above mentioned books/moviestv shows...
The language is good but I have read better from this author, and I know this is her first published novel and for being that, its good job but I do want more from it. This book is for young adults and I think it is very noticable but still there is no problem reading it as an adult. I am an adult reading and enjoying the book.
It is very hard to put down the book when you have started reading it and that is a good thing. I like books that has a natural good flow in them. The length of the book is perfect and I wouldnt add anything to this, the first book in the seriest or even take anything away from it.
I can recommend the book. It is very nice and the story is good. I cant give the book 5 stars because I feel there is something missing in it, and it is to similar to other work. But still a very readable and enjoyable book that I really can recommend to other, both adults and young adults.
October 9, 2016
SNSBAH Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lillian's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Do you believe in immortal gods? If so read this series. Ryder is just trying to get through school without been bullied. She was keeping her head down until she met Ollie, he made things worse.
Ollie has been waiting to find Ryder again he has waited so long for her. She likes spending time with Ollie and Junior her best friend as they both make her feel safe.
There is a new boy at school and Ryder gets the job of showing him around, she has seen him before at Ollie's house and they seemed to know each other. Ari has found her at long last but he knows that Ollie will do anything to get Ryder back.
Ryder knows something is going on as she has been dreaming about them and her dreams are all strange. She needs answers as she knows that she is acting different, who will give her the answers that she needs?
She is about to find out about her mother and her relationship with the two boys. At first she can't believe it but the more she learns the more she knows that it is all true.
Can she trust Ollie & Ari or will they find dirty to get her attention. She realizes that she loves them both and she knows that she has to choose. The boys leave her to make up her own mind about who she wants to be with.
A great fun read, I love anything to do with the gods as they always make for good reading. I like Ryder as she was a mess until she met the boys and then she found herself and she became stronger as a young woman. The boys Ollie & Ari they both have good & bad points and I am not too sure who you can trust 100%. Junior is a true friend that will always have her back no matter what.
Makes for good reading on a lazy day.
I was lucky enough to receive a copy in exchange for an honest review.
~~~~~~~~~~Lillian's ★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Do you believe in immortal gods? If so read this series. Ryder is just trying to get through school without been bullied. She was keeping her head down until she met Ollie, he made things worse.
Ollie has been waiting to find Ryder again he has waited so long for her. She likes spending time with Ollie and Junior her best friend as they both make her feel safe.
There is a new boy at school and Ryder gets the job of showing him around, she has seen him before at Ollie's house and they seemed to know each other. Ari has found her at long last but he knows that Ollie will do anything to get Ryder back.
Ryder knows something is going on as she has been dreaming about them and her dreams are all strange. She needs answers as she knows that she is acting different, who will give her the answers that she needs?
She is about to find out about her mother and her relationship with the two boys. At first she can't believe it but the more she learns the more she knows that it is all true.
Can she trust Ollie & Ari or will they find dirty to get her attention. She realizes that she loves them both and she knows that she has to choose. The boys leave her to make up her own mind about who she wants to be with.
A great fun read, I love anything to do with the gods as they always make for good reading. I like Ryder as she was a mess until she met the boys and then she found herself and she became stronger as a young woman. The boys Ollie & Ari they both have good & bad points and I am not too sure who you can trust 100%. Junior is a true friend that will always have her back no matter what.
Makes for good reading on a lazy day.
I was lucky enough to receive a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2016
This book is quite different from my usual, but I was pulled in and couldn't put it down. I can't wait to continue the series and see what is yet to come.
Ryder's school year was going awful. She was picked on mercilessly by the girl that used to be her best friend. She had panic attacks all of the time. The only thing that could calm her down was her best friend Junior. He was always there for her and shunned the rest of the school to he her rock.
Ryder began having very vivid dreams about the stranger with green eyes. She felt safe with him. One day Ollie shows up at school and befriends her against her wishes. She feels drawn to him and can't seem to hide her feelings. Their relationship grows quickly. She feels that she loves him already but feels it strange since she just met him.
Then she meets the green eyed stranger, Ari, and things change yet again. Things just get stranger and stranger. She is drawn to both of them and can't explain why. They both fight for her attention and can't stand each other.
The rest is up to you to read. I don't want to give away anything so I'm stopping my review here. All I can say is I can't wait to see where the story continues in book 2.
Ryder's school year was going awful. She was picked on mercilessly by the girl that used to be her best friend. She had panic attacks all of the time. The only thing that could calm her down was her best friend Junior. He was always there for her and shunned the rest of the school to he her rock.
Ryder began having very vivid dreams about the stranger with green eyes. She felt safe with him. One day Ollie shows up at school and befriends her against her wishes. She feels drawn to him and can't seem to hide her feelings. Their relationship grows quickly. She feels that she loves him already but feels it strange since she just met him.
Then she meets the green eyed stranger, Ari, and things change yet again. Things just get stranger and stranger. She is drawn to both of them and can't explain why. They both fight for her attention and can't stand each other.
The rest is up to you to read. I don't want to give away anything so I'm stopping my review here. All I can say is I can't wait to see where the story continues in book 2.
October 19, 2015
A Great YA Paranormal Read
I really enjoyed this book, I am a lover of all things paranormal and this book totally lived up to my expectations as a great one. It just really, totally, completely captured my attention and kept me reading, turning the pages, needing to know what was coming next. I really loved all of the components of the mythology which have always intrigued me. I really felt that I got to know Ryder and found myself going along with her on her adventures, both with her normal teenage life, the guys, and her finding out what she really is. At first I was totally team Ollie, but I find myself on team Ari right now. I enjoyed the twists and turns throughout the book. I read this book straight through and can't wait to read the next books in the series. I was generously given a complimentary copy fo this book for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book, I am a lover of all things paranormal and this book totally lived up to my expectations as a great one. It just really, totally, completely captured my attention and kept me reading, turning the pages, needing to know what was coming next. I really loved all of the components of the mythology which have always intrigued me. I really felt that I got to know Ryder and found myself going along with her on her adventures, both with her normal teenage life, the guys, and her finding out what she really is. At first I was totally team Ollie, but I find myself on team Ari right now. I enjoyed the twists and turns throughout the book. I read this book straight through and can't wait to read the next books in the series. I was generously given a complimentary copy fo this book for an honest review.
January 28, 2016
Being a teenager isn't all fun and games for seventeen year old Ryder. After being thrown down the social hierarchy, Ryder Mason has one goal for her senior year- survive.
Within the first month of school, Ryder goes from bullied teen to a cursed half goddess with two boyfriends. As if that wasn't enough, she travels into the Underworld to confront Hades about the curse and her missing mother.
Ryder delves head first into a Godly world as her two knights fight to seek her approval, her best friend's loyalties are tested and people's true intentions are shown in the first Curse Books novel.
WOW! This book is GREAT! You get right into Ryder's thoughts and feelings that are so real. Her deepest fears and frustrations are right there.
I can hardly wait to read the next book in the series! Great job Taylor!!
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