77 books like Cursed Fates

By Caroline Peckham, Susanne Valenti,

Here are 77 books that Cursed Fates fans have personally recommended if you like Cursed Fates. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of A Curse So Dark and Lonely

Melissa Marr Author Of The Hidden Dragon

From my list on if you want to go on a magical adventure.

Why am I passionate about this?

I grew up on fairy tales and folklore in the Appalachian Mountains. Stories of adventure and dusty fairy tale books in my grandmother’s attic were my entertainment. The library trips we took “into town” added to my reading. I discovered that the step from fairy tales to classics wasn’t as wide as folks argue. Years later, when I went off to college, I became an English major, then a graduate student, and then started teaching literature at college. From childhood to adulthood, magic and fiction were my life... which led to selling a book of my own. Over the last 17 years, I’ve been writing fantasy.

Melissa's book list on if you want to go on a magical adventure

Melissa Marr Why did Melissa love this book?

I had stopped reading children’s and teen fiction for a couple of years, for the first time in my half a century of life, and then I read A Curse So Dark and Lonely.

There’s a different sort of adventure here, and I think I related to Harper a little bit extra because I have a chronic illness and when it flares up, my limp is so very obvious. It felt good to see magic + that realism.

The combination of magic, a protagonist I could connect to, and fairy tale elements made me start opening the covers of other books I’d bought and shelved.

By Brigid Kemmerer,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked A Curse So Dark and Lonely as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

A New York Times bestseller! "Has everything you'd want in a retelling of a classic fairy tale." - Jodi Picoult In a lush, contemporary fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast, Brigid Kemmerer gives readers another compulsively readable romance perfect for fans of Marissa Meyer. Fall in love, break the curse. It once seemed so easy to Prince Rhen, the heir to Emberfall. Cursed by a powerful enchantress to repeat the autumn of his eighteenth year over and over, he knew he could be saved if a girl fell for him. But that was before he learned that at the…


Book cover of Emmie and the Tudor King

Jenny Hickman Author Of A Cursed Kiss

From my list on romance with cursed love.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a lover and reader of the romance genre ever since I graduated high school and borrowed one of my mother’s paperback novels during our annual beach vacation (which may have been twenty years ago... Yikes!). While I read everything from contemporary to historical, paranormal to fantasy, I’ve always had a particular fondness for stories with a touch of magic—specifically the cursed kind. There’s something extra angsty and tragic about cursed love that makes overcoming obstacles that much sweeter. I hope you fall in love with the books on this list as much as I have. 

Jenny's book list on romance with cursed love

Jenny Hickman Why did Jenny love this book?

Modern girl finds a cursed ring, goes back in time to the deadly Tudor era, and falls for the king. What could go wrong? This book has everything, cursed rings, time travel, swoon-worthy romance, forbidden love, and a drop-dead gorgeous Tudor King. There’s also a murder mystery as well, which adds so much depth to the plot. And I love, love, love how Murray treated the time travel aspect. There are dire consequences for changing the past and those consequences could be the worst curse of all. EATTK is YA and is suitable for younger readers and the first book in a heart-stopping trilogy.

By Natalie Murray,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Emmie and the Tudor King as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"This book will grab you and won't let go until you've reached the final page. And then it will leave you wanting more. You've been warned." - YA Books Central


One moment, eighteen-year-old Emmie Grace is writing her final high school history paper before graduation; the next, she's lost in 16th century England, where she meets a dreamy but dangerous Tudor king who is destined for a dreadful fate.


Able to travel back to her own time but intensely drawn to King Nick and the mysterious death of his sister, Emmie finds herself solving the murder of a young princess…


Book cover of Hollow Heathens

Jenny Hickman Author Of A Cursed Kiss

From my list on romance with cursed love.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a lover and reader of the romance genre ever since I graduated high school and borrowed one of my mother’s paperback novels during our annual beach vacation (which may have been twenty years ago... Yikes!). While I read everything from contemporary to historical, paranormal to fantasy, I’ve always had a particular fondness for stories with a touch of magic—specifically the cursed kind. There’s something extra angsty and tragic about cursed love that makes overcoming obstacles that much sweeter. I hope you fall in love with the books on this list as much as I have. 

Jenny's book list on romance with cursed love

Jenny Hickman Why did Jenny love this book?

Hollow Heathens, a hauntingly dark romance, overflows with Fiorina’s poetic prose. This book single-handedly made Fiorina an auto-buy author for me. Dark, forbidden love, a dangerous curse, legends and lore, murder and intrigue, Hollow Heathens will have you falling from the very first page. Seriously, I still dream about Julian x Fallon. I read the NA version, but Fiorina also released a YA version with milder language and fade-to-black spicy scenes so her daughter could enjoy the story as well.  

By Nicole Fiorina,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Hollow Heathens as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From Amazon's #1 bestselling author in Gothic Romance comes a haunting and forbidden love strong enough to murder fears and break centuries-old curses.

Once upon a time, there lived a girl named Fallon who was taken far away from home shortly after she was born.
A home that held more than strange traditions and bizarre superstitions.
Twenty-four years later, she returned to Weeping Hollow, a town she'd only heard about in stories during restless nights under a marble moon, to take care of her last living relative.
They called the nosy mortician a freakshow-a ghastly thing.
They said I couldn't…


Book cover of Lyrics & Curses

Jenny Hickman Author Of A Cursed Kiss

From my list on romance with cursed love.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been a lover and reader of the romance genre ever since I graduated high school and borrowed one of my mother’s paperback novels during our annual beach vacation (which may have been twenty years ago... Yikes!). While I read everything from contemporary to historical, paranormal to fantasy, I’ve always had a particular fondness for stories with a touch of magic—specifically the cursed kind. There’s something extra angsty and tragic about cursed love that makes overcoming obstacles that much sweeter. I hope you fall in love with the books on this list as much as I have. 

Jenny's book list on romance with cursed love

Jenny Hickman Why did Jenny love this book?

The author describes this book as Pretty in Pink meets Stranger Things—and I must agree! The story takes place in the 80s, and as a child of the 80s myself, that makes me love it even more. Lyrics & Curses is the perfect balance of romance and mystery (and epic 80’s music) that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for something quirky and dark, this book may be the perfect fit for you. L&C is the first in a YA duology suitable for younger readers. 

By Candace Robinson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Lyrics & Curses as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 13, 14, 15, and 16.

What is this book about?

Their love for music sparked a curse...

Lark Espinoza could get lost in her music—and she's not so sure anyone in her family would even care to find her. Her trendy, party-loving twin sister and her mother-come-lately Beth, who's suddenly sworn off men and onto homemaking, don't understand her love of cassette tapes, her loathing of the pop scene, or her standoffish personality. For outcast Lark, nothing feels as much like a real home as working at Bubble's Oddities store and trying to attract the attention of the cute guy who works at the Vinyl shop next door—the same one…


Book cover of Astrological Signs: The Pulse of Life

Babs Kirby Author Of Love and Sexuality: An Exploration of Venus and Mars

From my list on astrology with a psychological perspective.

Why am I passionate about this?

I was a humanistic psychotherapist first and came to astrology later and loved the way it didn’t pathologize and gave insight into our character and how that affects our destiny. I started to gather the charts of my psychotherapy clients (with their permission of course) and while not using this in their sessions, I was inspired by how they spoke their charts. Much of my understanding of how planetary positions and aspects manifest has been discovered by listening. I love how aspect patterns repeat through the generations within a family and what ramifications this has on the individuals. Who’s carrying the families karma?

Babs' book list on astrology with a psychological perspective

Babs Kirby Why did Babs love this book?

It’s hard to pick out my favourite Dane Rudhyar book, but this was the first one of his I read.

His descriptions of the signs of the zodiac are grounded in nature and inspirational. I was blown away by them and went on to read most of his writings. For those wanting to open up their understanding of their sun sign, this is the book to read. 

By Dane Rudhyar,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Astrological Signs as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

An intelligent metaphysical statement of the human experience expressed through the poetry of the zodiac. Free from the annoying fatalistic tone of some astrological writing, Rudhyar's book is all-inclusive, connecting the 12 astrological symbols to seasonal rhythms in a way that is both plausible from a scientific mindset and respectful of religious traditions.


Book cover of Glamstrology: Discover Your Signature Style with Astrology

Shawn Engel Author Of Mushroom Magick: Ritual, Celebration, and Lore

From my list on witchy Gen Z Millennial babes.

Why am I passionate about this?

I started my path as a professional witch about eight years ago. As a millennial babe who loves instagram, I found my community in the aesthetic feed of stylized ritual and came out of the broom closet in 2016. I’ve forged many personal relationships over my time in that space, and have connected with some incredible witchcraft and astrology experts who helped me when I was just starting out. These books are from some of these trusted experts, and the information inside them is deliciously woo while able to be applied practically. I hope you add them to your growing grimoire library!

Shawn's book list on witchy Gen Z Millennial babes

Shawn Engel Why did Shawn love this book?

Playing with makeup looks is one of my favorite hobbies, and incorporating my two loves is so fulfilling. I recently broke my ankle so makeup is really all I can play with, and this book has gotten me through. As a Scorpio I found lots of new inspo, and I even incorporate my rising, Venus, and Mars to bring in a mix of energies. 

By Michael Herkes,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Glamstrology as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Your ultimate guide to glamour magic and personal expression, Glamstrology reveals how astrology informs and influences your style, empowering you to step outside the boundaries of mainstream fashion and curate a look that is uniquely yours. Michael Herkes, aka the Glam Witch, deepens your understanding of celestial forces through insights, spells, and rituals, enabling you to skillfully employ them and captivate the world. Featuring inclusive, full-color fashion sketches by FIT and Parsons faculty member Steven Broadway, this book devotes a chapter to each zodiac sign. Discover how the stars affect your preferences, shaping everything from your attire to your shopping…


Book cover of A Child's Introduction to the Night Sky: The Story of the Stars, Planets, and Constellations--And How You Can Find Them in the Sky

Evonne Blanchard Author Of Amelia, the Merballs and the Emerald Cannon

From my list on space books that will launch your kids into orbit.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a science fiction and fantasy children’s book author, who loves everything about space and science fiction. I’ve been fascinated by space ever since I was little; mesmerized by clips of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walking on the moon. As a teenager, War of the Worlds by H.G Wells was my favorite book! My daughter’s complete lack of interest in space inspired me to write a space adventure series. How could I make space entertaining? When it comes to children, I’m a big fan of mixing space facts with a dollop of space fiction, so I hope you will enjoy the collection of books on this list!

Evonne's book list on space books that will launch your kids into orbit

Evonne Blanchard Why did Evonne love this book?

This is a jam-packed full of information space book, best suited for children ages 8 and above. It explores the solar system, the history of astronomy, and the great discoveries, made by seriously brainy scientists! The book also teaches kids about comets, meteoroids, and asteroids. And there is even a basic introduction to some of the most famous constellations, as well as the zodiac constellations: our star signs! A handy star guide accompanies the book, so kids can learn to identify their favorite constellations. Children will enjoy the author’s chatty narrative. There are charming color illustrations by Meredith Hamilton, and useful definitions of complicated space words. This is a great book to really develop a child's interest in the endless and utterly fascinating night sky!

By Michael Driscoll, Meredith Hamilton (illustrator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Child's Introduction to the Night Sky as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A Child's Introduction to the Night Sky is the perfect introduction to the always fascinating world of astronomy. Children ages eight and up will find out what astronomers have learned (and are still discovering), what astronauts and scientists explore, and what they can find by gazing up into the sky at night.

Author Michael Driscoll explains how stars are born, the achievements of the great scientists, the history of space exploration, the story of our solar system, the myths behind the constellations, how to navigate the night sky, and more.

Whimsical color illustrations throughout and handy definitions and sidebars help…


Book cover of Mind Mirror Close Encounters with Yourself

Vanessa Decort Author Of Sun and Moon Tarot

From my list on tarot and its many facets.

Why am I passionate about this?

Since I was a teenager, I have been attracted to astrology, Jungian psychology, synchronicity, symbolism, alchemy, and Jewish esotery. Someone gave me my first Tarot deck as a present. Since then I collect old and new decks from the entire world and created my own Sun and Moon TarotI continue to deepen my knowledge of tarot and all the systems associated with it. At times I focus more on the Sefiroth and Kabbalah. Sometimes I’m more interested in different ways of interpreting tarot. I've been illustrating Astrological Learning Cards for a while now, trying to better understand the different astrological archetypes and to make art.

Vanessa's book list on tarot and its many facets

Vanessa Decort Why did Vanessa love this book?

While designing and illustrating my own Sun and Moon Tarot, I followed the normal order of letters of the Hebrew alphabet and therefore also their values. And I respected the original Western Hermetic order of the cards on the paths of the Tree of Life and their corresponding Hebrew letters. This system is explained in detail in this book.

Rufus C. Camphausen describes in detail how the numbering of the tarot cards has been changed by different groups of people (Kabbalists, Astrologers, the Hermetic order of the Golden Dawn & Aleister Crowley, A. E. Waite of the Rider Waite Tarot). The same is true with the assignment of the planets and zodiac signs and the assignment of the numbers and the Hebrew letters on the paths of the Sefiroth (Tree of Life in Kabbalah).

Together with Van Leeuwen he also created ‘The Kabbalistic Tarot/Tree-of-life Tarot’. This tarot deck…

By Rufus C. Camphausen,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Mind Mirror Close Encounters with Yourself as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"A paper concerning the Tarot and the Tree of Life."


Book cover of The Inner Sky: How to Make Wiser for a More Fulfilling Life

Jackie Slevin Author Of Finding Success in the Horoscope: The Slevin System of Horoscope Analysis

From my list on taking astrology beyond the sun sign.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a Certified Astrologer and Education Director of The National Council for Geocosmic Research, I host monthly webinars with experienced astrologers from around the world who present state-of-the-art lectures on every facet of astrology. I taught astrology in-person and online for 10 years, have consulted professionally for 40, and have written many articles in astrological newsletters and magazines, some of which have been published internationally. For the past 14 years I’ve been a staff writer for Horoscope Guide Magazine, and have been interviewed frequently on talk radio, podcasts, and newspapers, including The New York Post.

Jackie's book list on taking astrology beyond the sun sign

Jackie Slevin Why did Jackie love this book?

The first installment in a series from the modern-day guru of evolutionary astrology, The Inner Sky is a must-read for anyone with a strong interest in how horoscopes function in our lives. Written in excellent prose with subtexts of symbol, strategy, endpoint, resources, and shadow for each Sun sign, Forrest takes us on a journey of discovery of the finer points and lesser qualities of each zodiac sign, and presents more contemporary explanations of planets in signs, houses, and aspects. Referring to a copy of your chart while reading this book brings your chart to life, bringing inner revelations in the process. 

By Steven Forrest,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Inner Sky as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

This bestselling astrology classic was the WINNER OF THE 1985 PAI AWARD (Professional Astrologers Incorporated) "for outstanding activities in furthering the goals of Astrology." Published to almost immediate critical acclaim, The Inner Sky is beloved by both beginning and seasoned astrologers. The book introduces all the astrological basics--signs, planets, houses, aspects--and pulls them together in a step-by-step strategy for synthesis that anyone can learn. One of the most popular texts for beginning the study of astrology, the book has received praise by professional astrology teachers as well as celebrities such as Sting and Robert Downey Jr. Readers will learn an…


Book cover of The Tokyo Zodiac Murders

Queenie Chan Author Of The Dreaming Volume 1

From my list on Manga & novels that are mysteries from Japan.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always been a fan of dark stories and unsolved mysteries. As I grew older, this led me to read true crime, historical mysteries, horror stories, and mystery detective fiction. I also have a preference for classic stories from decades gone by, as I have a strong interest in how genre-defining stories that appear at a certain time can have great influence over a generation of writers. So, it’s fitting to say that all my recommendations tend to be great stories from long ago. Much like the Sherlock Holmes stories by Arthur Conan Doyle, people still read these stories today and probably will in the future since great stories are timeless.

Queenie's book list on Manga & novels that are mysteries from Japan

Queenie Chan Why did Queenie love this book?

I like macabre mysteries with compelling hooks and clever resolutions that blow my mind, and this book does exactly that. Japan has a long tradition of writing “fair play” mysteries, which they call honkaku novels. These borrow from the Golden Age of Detective Fiction in the vein of Agatha Christie but certainly are their own category. 

These novels are like puzzles, focusing on the rules of fair play by giving readers all they need to figure out the mystery. This story was my first honkaku story and is only the length of a novella (like many honkaku novels), and it’s also rather dark, which I enjoy since I like horror as much as mystery.

By Soji Shimada, Ross Mackenzie (translator), Shika Mackenzie (translator)

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Tokyo Zodiac Murders as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'If you like your crime stories to be bloody and bizarre, then this one may be for you. The winner of several major awards... the solution is one of the most original that I've ever read' Anthony Horowitz

A bestselling and internationally-acclaimed masterpiece of the locked-room mystery genre

Japan, 1936. An old eccentric artist living with seven women has been found dead - in a room locked from the inside. His diaries reveal alchemy, astrology and a complicated plan to kill all seven women. Shortly afterwards, the plan is carried out: the women are found dismembered and buried across rural…


Book cover of A Curse So Dark and Lonely
Book cover of Emmie and the Tudor King
Book cover of Hollow Heathens

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Interested in curses, romantic love, and the United Kingdom?

Curses 76 books
Romantic Love 943 books
The United Kingdom 582 books