Princess Arabella of Althea is left no choice when Felix Osiris, the Shadow Emperor, threatens to overthrow her country unless she agrees to marry him.
When she learns his empire is cursed and she’s destined to set them free, they come to an agreement: help him minimize the curse’s effect on his people, and he’ll let her go.
As Felix teaches Arabella how to control her forbidden and volatile magic, her feelings for him turn from hatred to passion … and she realizes that she must break the curse, or she’ll lose him forever.
My Review
The Shadow Emperor is determined to break his curse and make Arabella of Althea his wife. Arabella has had a difficult upbringing, surrounded by those who believe she herself is cursed. Felix, the Shadow Emperor, sees something very different in her. He believes in magic, alchemy, and the light he sees within Arabella.
This story features an arranged marriage, an age gap, and yes, a shadow daddy hero, along with some important trigger warnings to be aware of. I loved that Felix’s cursed kingdom is blanketed in snow and ice, which gives the entire story a strong winter atmosphere that fits the mood perfectly.
If you didn’t already guess, this is a fairytale retelling. Elaine gave me strong Mrs. Potts vibes, and Arabella’s elemental magic with fire and air was fascinating to watch unfold. As the story progresses, things become more complicated with the curse, their growing love, and Arabella’s emerging powers. There is a stretch where the story becomes quite sad, but Alara’s newfound confidence helps carry it forward. I really loved the strength she finds through her love for Eldiara and Felix.
The ending was swoony and satisfying, and overall this was a very enjoyable read. While the pacing felt a bit slower at times, I still appreciated the author’s take on this fairytale retelling and the emotional depth woven throughout the story.
If you would like to read A Curse of Shadows and Ice by Catharina Maura you can find this book on Amazon. As an Amazon Assocaite I earn on qualifying purchases.
If you like this book you may also enjoy books with these tags and categories: Retelling, Age Gap and Elemental.
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