Book Review: A Curse of Gold

Listen, this week has been nuts and this weekend is going to be just as crazy. I was starting to get worried I wouldn't finish this book but then I started and HOLY MOLY, I finished it in a day. One day, you guys. 

A Curse of Gold - Annie Sullivan

Curses and queens. Pirates and kings. Gods and magic. The final saga of a cursed queen, a vengeful Greek god, and a dazzling kingdom in the balance.

After barely surviving thieving, bloodthirsty pirates and a harrowing quest at sea to retrieve her stolen treasure, Kora finds readjusting to palace life just as deadly. Kora’s people openly turn against her, threatening to overthrow her as heir to the throne—a cursed queen who has angered Dionysus. When Dionysus puts out a challenge to kill the girl with the golden touch and burn down her kingdom, it’s not just her future on the throne in danger. Kora’s life and entire kingdom are now on contract.

As bold and brave as ever, Kora sets out to find Dionysus, the very person who is trying to kill her, on the mysterious disappearing island of Jipper. Kora has no other choice. If she wants to save her kingdom and have any chance at reversing her father’s curse, she will have to enter into a deadly game with Dionysus, the greatest trickster the world, or the underworld, has ever seen. 

If you have been around for awhile, you might remember that I reviewed A Touch of Gold way back in 2018. I loved it and I had been hoping for a part two, so when I saw a part two come out, I JUMPED at it. I didn't know how much I needed this book until I read it. It was worth the wait! 

*Disclaimer, you HAVE to read the first book before you read this. I know, sadsies, but I promise you it is worth it.*

To be honest, I didn't really have any idea what the storyline was going to be in this one but we find out right away the plan is to find Dionysus and lift the curse on her and her father (Midas), who is basically wilting away. We have Royce by her side, but the journey isn't just about this, she has to prove herself as a real leader that can rule Lagonia. 

Just like the first book, this one is FULL of crazy plot twists! The author gives us wonderful characters (I love Lenny), we get a series of odd riddles on the way to the Oracle, we have Triton in this one (!!!), Poseidon, and of course, we have Dionysus. So much more. Kora is the strong female character we need right now. I love that Royce is by her side and never doubting her, completely supporting and encouraging her. I did have to remind myself that this is a young adult book so it is aimed for that audience, but man- this would make a great adult book with some tweaks. 

I love how nothing was as it seemed, just when you thought you had something nailed down, you are so completely wrong. I wouldn't even say I'm someone who likes fantasy, but I just loved this. I really hope this turns into a trilogy, and I want more of Hettie and Rhat. I really need more or them, just saying. 

Overall? I'm giving this one 5 stars, just like A Touch of Gold, because I want more. Any book I want more of has to be 5, right? I'm such a fan of BlinkYA Publishing, so I'm so thankful they sent me a copy for review, and for TLC Book Tours for having me on this tour! If you are looking for a great couple of books to have your teen read, they will like these, it'll keep them turning those pages! 

This post contains affiliate links.