Witchcraft is an ancient practice that has fascinated and intrigued people for centuries. It is often portrayed in popular culture as either good (white) or evil (black). However, the reality is that witchcraft is not inherently black or white but encompasses a diverse spectrum of beliefs and practices. Black witchcraft, often referred to as "dark" or "left-hand" path, is associated with darker, taboo, and more controversial practices. This includes hexes, curses, and manipulating energy to cause harm or gain personal power. Black witches often tap into the shadows, embracing the aspects of humanity that society may consider negative.

Curse of Shadows and Thorns (Hardcover)

As niece of the king, Elise Lysander cares about two things: sneaking into gambling dens, and avoiding an advantageous marriage at all costs.

When her uncle holds the life of her deathly-ill father over her head, reluctantly, Elise puts her fate into the hands of Legion Grey, the handsome and mysterious dowry negotiator. He may be arrogant and infuriating, but soon Legion incites a blistering, forbidden passion she can't ignore.

As their attraction grows, so do the dangers: attacks from black-eyed people, a cursed enemy who is more beast than man, and rumors of fae returning for the crown they believe was stolen from them long ago.

After a bloody coup upends the kingdom, Elise flees with Legion, but nothing is as it seems. The man she allowed into her heart reveals his own secret plans with the return of magic-and he has every intention of using Elise to see them through.

With war between magic and mortal on the horizon, Elise must pick a side to protect her kingdom. Does she stand with her people who stole the throne? Or with a man who lied his way into her heart and whose secret past could bring her destruction?

Filled with luscious world building, banter-filled romance, and epic battles, this first book in the Broken Kingdoms series is part Viking, part Beauty and the Beast. One-click to start reading today.
*Author Note* Be prepared, these fairy tale retellings might begin as a slow burn romance, but the series progresses with the spice and steam. Book 1 is not the standard for the heat of the romance and each book gets spicier.

• Fantasy - Dark Fantasy
• Fantasy - Romance
• Fairy Tales, Folk Tales, Legends & Mythology

Curse of shadows and thorns

282 pages • first pub 2021 (editions)

Publication date: 07 September 2021

The StoryGraph is an affiliate of the featured links. We earn commission on any purchases made.

The StoryGraph is an affiliate of the featured links.
We earn commission on any purchases made.

Description

A bargain between enemies. A curse without an end. A love that will bring a kingdom to its knees.Long ago, Elise's ancestors stole the crown from the fae king. As the niece of the brutal, current king, her purpose is to do whatever is asked to ens.

Community Reviews Summary of 2,065 reviews

adventurous 92%
mysterious 54%
emotional 43%
tense 41%
dark 40%
hopeful 15%
funny 13%
challenging 12%
sad 9%
inspiring 6%
lighthearted 4%
reflective 2%
informative 1%
relaxing 1%

Plot- or character-driven?

A mix: 56% | Plot: 27% | Character: 15%

Strong character development?

Yes: 59% | No: 20% | It's complicated: 18% | N/A: 1%

Yes: 83% | It's complicated: 12% | No: 3%

Diverse cast of characters?

Yes: 53% | No: 27% | It's complicated: 13% | N/A: 6%

Flaws of characters a main focus?

Yes: 40% | No: 32% | It's complicated: 22% | N/A: 3%

Content Warnings

Submitted by users as part of their reviews

Collapse filter menu

Collapse filter menu

Death, Violence, Blood

Sexual content, Sexual assault, Slavery

Torture, Adult/minor relationship, Incest

Curse of Shadows and Thorns (Hardcover)

Black witches often tap into the shadows, embracing the aspects of humanity that society may consider negative. This form of witchcraft is often portrayed in movies and novels as the villain or antagonist. On the other hand, white witchcraft, often called "light" or "right-hand" path, is associated with positive intentions, healing, and helping others.

Our online orders are for California customers only.

Description

As niece of the king, Elise Lysander cares about two things: sneaking into gambling dens, and avoiding an advantageous marriage at all costs.

When her uncle holds the life of her deathly-ill father over her head, reluctantly, Elise puts her fate into the hands of Legion Grey, the handsome and mysterious dowry negotiator. He may be arrogant and infuriating, but soon Legion incites a blistering, forbidden passion she can't ignore.

As their attraction grows, so do the dangers: attacks from black-eyed people, a cursed enemy who is more beast than man, and rumors of fae returning for the crown they believe was stolen from them long ago.

After a bloody coup upends the kingdom, Elise flees with Legion, but nothing is as it seems. The man she allowed into her heart reveals his own secret plans with the return of magic-and he has every intention of using Elise to see them through.

With war between magic and mortal on the horizon, Elise must pick a side to protect her kingdom. Does she stand with her people who stole the throne? Or with a man who lied his way into her heart and whose secret past could bring her destruction?

Filled with luscious world building, banter-filled romance, and epic battles, this first book in the Broken Kingdoms series is part Viking, part Beauty and the Beast. One-click to start reading today.
*Author Note* Be prepared, these fairy tale retellings might begin as a slow burn romance, but the series progresses with the spice and steam. Book 1 is not the standard for the heat of the romance and each book gets spicier.

• Fantasy - Dark Fantasy
• Fantasy - Romance
• Fairy Tales, Folk Tales, Legends & Mythology

Curse of Shadows and Thorns: A romantic fairy tale fantasy (Hardcover)

As niece of the king, Elise Lysander cares about two things: sneaking into gambling dens, and avoiding an advantageous marriage at all costs.

When her uncle holds the life of her deathly-ill father over her head, reluctantly, Elise puts her fate into the hands of Legion Grey, the handsome and mysterious dowry negotiator. He may be arrogant and infuriating, but soon Legion incites a blistering, forbidden passion she can't ignore.

As their attraction grows, so do the dangers: attacks from black-eyed people, a cursed enemy who is more beast than man, and rumors of fae returning for the crown they believe was stolen from them long ago.

After a bloody coup upends the kingdom, Elise flees with Legion, but nothing is as it seems. The man she allowed into her heart reveals his own secret plans with the return of magic-and he has every intention of using Elise to see them through.

With war between magic and mortal on the horizon, Elise must pick a side to protect her kingdom. Does she stand with her people who stole the throne? Or with a man who lied his way into her heart and whose secret past could bring her destruction?

Filled with luscious world building, banter-filled romance, and epic battles, this first book in the Broken Kingdoms series is part Viking, part Beauty and the Beast. One-click to start reading today.
*Author Note* Be prepared, these fairy tale retellings might begin as a slow burn romance, but the series progresses with the spice and steam. Book 1 is not the standard for the heat of the romance and I hope, if that's your jam, you'll come along and blush with these sexy Vikings and fae for the long-haul.

• Romance - Historical - Viking
• Fairy Tales, Folk Tales, Legends & Mythology

White witches seek to use their powers for the betterment of themselves and others. They focus on creating love, harmony, and positive outcomes through rituals, spells, and divination. White witches are often portrayed as the hero or protagonist in popular media. However, it is essential to understand that these black and white labels are simplifications of a complex and diverse practice. Witchcraft is not limited to these binary categories but is a deeply personal and individual path. Many witches fall somewhere in between, following a gray path that acknowledges the balance of light and dark energies in the universe. Furthermore, it is important to recognize that witchcraft is not inherently good or evil. It is simply a tool that can be utilized by individuals with different intentions. The ethics and morality of witchcraft are entirely dependent on the user. Just as a knife can be used for cooking or harm, witchcraft can be used for positive or negative purposes. In conclusion, black and white witchcraft are oversimplifications of the diverse and complex practice of witchcraft. These labels may be useful for understanding general concepts, but they do not accurately represent the entire spectrum of practices and beliefs within witchcraft. Witchcraft is a deeply personal and individual path that can be used for both positive and negative purposes, depending on the intentions of the practitioner..

Reviews for "The Sacred Symbols of Black and White Witchcraft"

1. John - 2/5

Witchcraft Black and White was a disappointment for me. The storyline was confusing, and the dialogue felt forced and unconvincing. The acting was average at best, and I found it hard to connect with any of the characters. The special effects also left a lot to be desired, they looked cheap and poorly executed. Overall, I was hoping for something more engaging and visually appealing, but this film fell short for me.

2. Sarah - 1/5

I wish I could get my time back after watching Witchcraft Black and White. The film was incredibly slow-paced and lacked any real excitement or suspense. The plot was disjointed and hard to follow, and the ending left me feeling underwhelmed. The acting was wooden, and the characters had no depth or development. I wouldn't recommend this film to anyone looking for a captivating and thrilling experience.

3. Mark - 2/5

Witchcraft Black and White had potential, but it failed to deliver. The concept was interesting, but the execution was lacking. The pacing was off, and the story dragged on for too long. The acting was subpar, and the dialogue felt unnatural. The film also relied too heavily on jump scares, which quickly became predictable and lost their impact. Overall, I was left wanting more from Witchcraft Black and White and felt let down by its lackluster execution.

4. Emily - 2.5/5

While Witchcraft Black and White had its moments, it ultimately fell flat for me. The plot had potential, but it was executed in a confusing and convoluted manner. The characters were poorly developed, and I found it hard to connect with any of them. The film also lacked originality and relied too heavily on clichés. The ending felt abrupt and unresolved, leaving me unsatisfied. Overall, Witchcraft Black and White was a mediocre attempt at a supernatural thriller.

Black and White Witchcraft: Debunking Myths and Stereotypes