Tuesday Reviews: The Curse That Binds by Laura Thalassa

From the author of the Bargainer series comes the prequel to Bewitched. Two thousand years before there was Selene, there was Roxilana. Her love fated, her life doomed, and her story forgotten—until now.

When Roxilana hears a voice inside her head, she believes she's gone mad. This voice, Memnon, claims he is her god-touched soul mate, one who has the ability to wield magic. Not only that, but he believes Roxilana possesses magic too.

Wild though his claims are, Roxilana realizes Memnon speaks the truth. First, her power Awakens. Then, Memnon, King of the Sarmatians, shows up at her door in Rome, proclaims her as his wife, and takes her to his homeland.

Roxilana's fate is everything she hoped for. But there are things Memnon didn't tell her–about his magic, life as a Sarmatian, and what she, as queen, will have to endure. And as she soon learns, nothing is as dangerous as love and power. While the combination can build empires and legacies, it is capable of destroying everything and everyone in its path. And if Roxilana and Memnon are not careful, it could destroy them along with it.

The Curse That Binds by Laura Thalassa is everything I love about dark fantasy romance wrapped up in one gorgeously dangerous package. Thalassa delivers heart-wrenching tension, morally grey characters, and an addictive plot that never lets up. The chemistry between the leads crackles on every page, and the worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming. This deluxe edition is a treat for fans—beautifully designed and packed with extras that make it feel even more special. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to end. Highly recommend for readers who love intensity, romance, and a touch of darkness.