A review by ariellesbookreviews
From Bad to Cursed by Lana Harper

adventurous funny mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

From Bad to Cursed was an excellent follow-up to Lana Harper’s debut novel! Isidora Avramov is tasked with investigating a local crime with her long-time enemy Rowan Thorne. The Avramov family is known for using the dark magic of necromancy while the Thorne’s use life magic, but are these stereotypes true or just prejudice from the founding of Thistle Grove? 

Harper recreates the magic found in Paybacks a Witch with her new book. The relationship between Rowan and Isidora was fun and intriguing, and Harper allowed each character to grow throughout the book and their relationship. Learning the source of the antagonism between Rowan and Isidora was realistic and underwhelming. I wouldn’t say it was a disappointing storyline, but it demonstrates bias within storytelling and can make the reader question whether Isidora is a trustworthy narrator. 

Harper includes a diverse cast of characters without any stereotypes, with the creation of characters like Rowan Thorne, a black man, and a veterinarian. Thorn is a successful, well-liked citizen of Thriste Grove. Harper also has Isidora acknowledge her privilege between them. It was nice to read a book written by a white author who was able to write a story with a black main character that did not have stereotypes intertwined. 

I like From Bad to Cursed even more than Payback’s a Witch, and I cannot wait for the next book.