The curse workers are individuals who possess the ability to wield supernatural powers known as curses. These powers allow them to manipulate the world around them and bring harm or misfortune to others. However, this unique gift is also regarded as a curse itself, as it brings isolation and fear to those who possess it. The origins of curse workers are steeped in mystery. Some believe that they are born with their powers, passed down through generations of a cursed bloodline. Others argue that anyone can become a curse worker through a traumatic event or dark ritual.
Holly Black is the #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of speculative and fantasy novels, short stories, and comics. She has been a finalist for an Eisner and a Lodestar Award, and the recipient of the Mythopoeic and Nebula Awards and a Newbery Honor. She has sold over twenty-six million books worldwide, and her work has been translated into over thirty languages and adapted for film. She currently lives in New England with her husband and son in a house with a secret library. Visit her at BlackHolly.com.
Cassel Sharpe comes from a family of curse workers, people who have the power to change emotions, memories, and luck with the slightest touch of their hands. He doesn t have magic, so he s an outsider, the straight kid in a crooked family except for the small detail that he killed his best friend, Lila, three years ago.
Others argue that anyone can become a curse worker through a traumatic event or dark ritual. Whatever the case may be, the existence of these individuals has led to a complex and often dangerous existence. The powers of curse workers vary greatly, with each individual possessing a specific skill set.
The Curse Workers
Cassel Sharpe comes from a family of curse workers, people who have the power to change emotions, memories, and luck with the slightest touch of their hands. And since curse work is illegal, they’re also all criminals. Many become mobsters and con artists, but not Cassel. He doesn’t have magic, so he’s an outsider, the straight kid in a crooked family—except for the small detail that he killed his best friend, Lila, three years ago.
Cassel has carefully built up a facade of normalcy, blending into the crowd. But his facade starts to crumble when he finds himself sleepwalking, propelled into the night by terrifying dreams about a white cat that wants to tell him something. He’s noticing other disturbing things, too, including the strange behavior of his two older brothers, who are keeping secrets from him. As Cassel begins to suspect he’s an unwitting pawn in a huge con game, he must unravel his past, and his memories. To find the truth, Cassel will have to out-con the conmen.
This magical bind-up includes:
White Cat
Red Glove
Black Heart
Some are able to manipulate emotions, forcing others to feel love, hate, or fear at their command. Others have the ability to alter memories, twisting past experiences to suit their desires. Some curse workers can physically manipulate objects, while others specialize in siphoning luck or causing physical harm. Despite their abilities, curse workers are often perceived as dangerous and unwanted members of society. They are seen as threat to the perceived order and stability of the world, and as a result, their existence is often hidden or denied. Many curse workers live in secrecy, hiding their true nature from the outside world for fear of persecution or exploitation. One of the most challenging aspects of being a curse worker is the moral and ethical implications of their powers. The ability to manipulate and control others raises questions of consent and responsibility. Some curse workers use their powers for personal gain or to exploit others, while others strive to use their abilities for good, helping those in need or seeking justice. The curse workers also face boundaries within their own community. Different factions exist, each with their own rules and codes of conduct. Some curse workers choose to live in isolation, avoiding contact with others to protect themselves and others from their powers. Others form alliances or underground networks, providing support and guidance to their fellow curse workers. In conclusion, the curse workers possess a unique and powerful gift, but it comes at a price. Their abilities to manipulate and control the world around them bring isolation and fear. However, some curse workers find a way to use their powers for good, striving to make a positive impact while navigating the moral complexities that come with their abilities. The existence of curse workers adds an intriguing layer of mystery and conflict to the world..
Reviews for "The Power of Words: The Language of Curse Workers"
1. Kate - 2 stars - I found "The Curse Workers" to be a disappointing read. The concept of magical abilities being used for criminal activities was interesting, but the execution fell flat. The characters lacked depth and the plot felt predictable. I had high hopes for this book but ultimately found it to be unengaging and forgettable.
2. Mark - 1 star - This book just didn't do it for me. The world-building was confusing and poorly explained, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story. Additionally, the characters felt one-dimensional and their motivations were unclear. The plot was convoluted and seemed to jump around without a clear direction. Overall, "The Curse Workers" was a frustrating and unsatisfying read.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - I struggled to connect with "The Curse Workers" and its characters. The protagonist, Cassel, was difficult to root for as he made repeated poor decisions without much growth or development. The plot lacked suspense and the pacing was inconsistent, making it hard to stay engaged. While I appreciated the unique premise, the execution left much to be desired. Overall, this book didn't resonate with me and I wouldn't recommend it.
4. Alex - 1 star - "The Curse Workers" was a letdown. The plot was slow and lacked any real excitement or buildup. The world-building was confusing and underdeveloped, leaving me with more questions than answers. The characters were forgettable and their relationships felt forced. This book simply didn't capture my attention or leave any lasting impact. I was disappointed and wouldn't recommend it to others.