In a land plagued by darkness, she may be their only saving light.

After a tragic past, King Bodin refuses to let anyone near his heart, but he’ll do whatever it takes to save his people from this never-ending war. Even if that means agreeing to an arranged marriage, trading riches for soldiers and a princess who’s been hidden away most of her life.

Despite being sent to a man most fear, Princess Juniper knows this might be her only chance to escape the shadows. Especially when she discovers a room in her new palace full of portals to magical lands and Bodin gives her the keys to all but one.

She enjoys her freedom to explore, yet she can’t stop wondering what’s behind the mysterious door he won’t let her open. They might have formed an unexpected friendship, but there are still so many secrets between them.

Deadly secrets that could bring devastation to the few people they truly care about, including one another.

~*~*~

Perfect for fans of A Curse So Dark and Lonely, Grave Mercy, and the show Reign... but spicier, Cursed by Darkness is a dark romantasy that can be read as a standalone.

Cursed by Darkness is book four in the Once Upon a Curse series.

Published
September 26, 2024
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Once Upon A Curse Series

The series

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In the Once Upon A Curse series, magic isn’t just something you see—it’s something you feel. CM Haines invites readers into a world where curses hold more than just the power to transform lives—they have the ability to unearth the deepest secrets and shape destinies. In this captivating series, beloved fairy tale tropes are reimagined with a darker twist, where nothing is as it seems and every happily-ever-after comes at a cost.

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The series unfolds across multiple books, each introducing complex characters struggling to break free from the chains of their own cursed fates. These aren’t your typical princesses or knights; they’re flawed, fierce, and driven by personal stakes that challenge their beliefs and their hearts. As they journey through enchanted forests, treacherous kingdoms, and forgotten realms, they must confront the darker sides of magic—and the even darker sides of themselves.

Set in a rich, atmospheric world where danger lurks around every corner and romance brews alongside betrayal, Once Upon A Curse explores the complicated intersection of power, love, and redemption. The series weaves intricate plots that move beyond simple enchantments to explore themes of identity, sacrifice, and the ever-present battle between destiny and choice. With every book, Haines builds on this tapestry of magic and intrigue, leaving readers eagerly turning pages to uncover what happens next.

Whether you’re drawn in by the lush world-building, the complex character arcs, or the unexpected twists, this series will captivate those who love a mix of dark fantasy and fairy tale retellings. Magic doesn’t always work the way you want it to, but it always leaves a mark—and in Once Upon A Curse, that mark could change everything.

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