A review by loverofbooks123
A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

adventurous dark funny mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

If I had to use a single word to describe this book it would be enthralling. This has become one of the best books I have ever read. Since it was a Beauty and the Beast retelling, I was a little skeptical about reading it but it was far better than the original.
Harper, the main character, was a delight to read. She was very different from any other female characters I have read. I have come across smart, independent and fiery heroines but Harper really made me admire her not only because of her qualities but also her flaws.
She doesn't have anyone pity her for her cerebral palsy and is eager to learn new skills - not to mention her outstanding capabilities of an equestrian.
Her emotions and practicality are so amazingly balanced. Her sheer determination to save the people of Emberfall from the curse was truly commendable.
I expected the book to end with both of the main leads falling in love, the curse lifting off and everyone gets a happily ever after. But I was glad when she said she wanted time to sort out her feelings. It was the best ending one could hope for instead of having the book end with yet another case of Stockholm syndrome.

Rhen, the hero and the Beast of our story, might be the best YA male lead I've read in a while. His character is so complex. Like he was an arrogant prince but as Grey says, never cruel. The way he's come to change his ways after being cursed was some major character development.
Grey, Freya, Jamison - there's isn't a character you'd hate except of course Lilith.
Truly, a refreshing take on a classic fairytale. 
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