A talisman is an object believed to possess magical or supernatural powers and is often worn as an amulet or pendant. Talismans have been used across various cultures and civilizations throughout history for different purposes such as protection, luck, fertility, or healing. These objects are typically made from materials such as gemstones, metals, herbs, or even animal parts, and are often inscribed or engraved with symbols, words, or verses. The belief in the power of talismans stems from the concept of sympathetic magic, which suggests that an object can transmit its properties or powers to its wearer. This concept is often associated with the idea of a connection between the physical and spiritual realms. In many cultures, talismans are considered to be infused with supernatural energy or spirits, providing the wearer with specific benefits or attributes.
“A fresh twist on an old story. . . . Fans of Sarah J. Maas will be eager for this one.” —Booklist
Avoiding disability inspiration tropes, she is a fallible, well-rounded character who fights for the vulnerable and resists being labeled as such herself despite how others perceive her. Rhen s monster side is responsible for untold gore and destruction, including the slaughter of his own family and an unknown but presumably large number of others.
In many cultures, talismans are considered to be infused with supernatural energy or spirits, providing the wearer with specific benefits or attributes. The designs and symbols used on talismans vary greatly across different cultures and traditions. For example, in ancient Egypt, the ankh symbol was believed to bring eternal life and was commonly used as a talisman.
A Curse So Dark and Lonely (The Cursebreaker Series) (Paperback)
A New York Times bestseller!
"Has everything you'd want in a retelling of a classic fairy tale." - Jodi Picoult
In a lush, contemporary fantasy retelling of Beauty and the Beast, Brigid Kemmerer gives readers another compulsively readable romance perfect for fans of Marissa Meyer.
Fall in love, break the curse.
It once seemed so easy to Prince Rhen, the heir to Emberfall. Cursed by a powerful enchantress to repeat the autumn of his eighteenth year over and over, he knew he could be saved if a girl fell for him. But that was before he learned that at the end of each autumn, he would turn into a vicious beast hell-bent on destruction. That was before he destroyed his castle, his family, and every last shred of hope.
Nothing has ever been easy for Harper. With her father long gone, her mother dying, and her brother barely holding their family together while constantly underestimating her because of her cerebral palsy, she learned to be tough enough to survive. But when she tries to save someone else on the streets of Washington, DC, she's instead somehow sucked into Rhen's cursed world.
Break the curse, save the kingdom.
A prince? A monster? A curse? Harper doesn't know where she is or what to believe. But as she spends time with Rhen in this enchanted land, she begins to understand what's at stake. And as Rhen realizes Harper is not just another girl to charm, his hope comes flooding back. But powerful forces are standing against Emberfall . . . and it will take more than a broken curse to save Harper, Rhen, and his people from utter ruin.
About the Author
Brigid Kemmerer is the author of the New York Times bestseller Defy the Night, the New York Times bestselling Cursebreaker series, which includes A Curse So Dark and Lonely, A Heart So Fierce and Broken, and A Vow So Bold and Deadly, and Forging Silver into Stars. She has also written the contemporary young adult romances Call It What You Want, More Than We Can Tell, and Letters to the Lost, as well as paranormal young adult stories, including the Elemental series and Thicker Than Water. A full-time writer, Brigid lives in the Baltimore area with her family.
www.brigidkemmerer.com
@BrigidKemmerer
Praise For…
“Has everything you'd want in a retelling of a classic fairy tale: a finely-drawn fantasy world, a heroine rarely seen in fiction, and a tortured hero with a secret. I have only one complaint: I wish the sequel were already available!” —Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of A SPARK OF LIGHT and SMALL GREAT THINGS
“Absolutely spellbinding. A Curse So Dark and Lonely expands on all the beloved themes of 'Beauty and the Beast' to create an intensely original retelling: one full of fierce new characters, wicked magic, and wondrous amounts of heart. Brigid Kemmerer doesn't just tell a story, she builds an entire world that you will never want to leave.” —Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of CARAVAL and LEGENDARY
“I couldn't get this creative, suspenseful take on 'Beauty and the Beast' out of my head.” —Sara Holland, New York Times bestselling author of EVERLESS
“Slow burning, big hearted, magical fun! I loved every minute.” —New York Times bestselling author Wendy Higgins
“Heartwarming, thoughtful, and romantic: Brigid Kemmerer took me on a magical journey with this dark fairy tale about growing up, falling in love, and making impossible choices. I can't wait to see where these characters go next.” —Jodi Meadows, New York Times bestselling co-author of MY LADY JANE and MY PLAIN JANE
“Beautifully dark, filled with wild adventure and a modern-day heroine every reader will find a bit of themselves in.” —Alexandra Christo, author of TO KILL A KINGDOM
“Harper is the undisputed hero . . . Avoiding disability inspiration tropes, she is a fallible, well-rounded character who fights for the vulnerable and resists being labeled as such herself despite how others perceive her. A fast-paced, richly detailed feminist epic.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“This enthralling modern fable champions altruism while illustrating intimacy's relationship with honesty, respect, trust, and consent.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Fans of Cassandra Clare, Marissa Meyer, or Alex Flinn, as well as any reader looking to sink into a top-notch story with great characters, will want to read this book.” —VOYA, starred review
“A complex, creative, and compelling reimagining of Beauty and the Beast.” —School Library Connection, highly recommended
“A fresh twist on an old story. . . . Fans of Sarah J. Maas will be eager for this one.” —Booklist
“Kemmerer knows how to blend a compelling story with a swoony romance, and the love triangle that inevitably develops . . . is organic and unforced because of strong characterization.” —BCCB
“A unique world filled with fantasy and menace . . . will leave readers anxious to see what happens next.” —School Library Journal
“Kemmerer merges modern sensibilities with an epic love story in this Beauty and the Beast retelling.” —Shelf Awareness
“Readers looking for a different sort of coming-of-age story or teen protagonists grappling with complex situations will fall in love with this romance-tinged novel.” —Starred review, Booklist on MORE THAN WE CAN TELL
“A must-have for any YA collection. Give to teens who enjoyed A Boy Called It by Dave Pelzer or The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky.” —Starred review, School Library Journal on MORE THAN WE CAN TELL
“This book is going to fly off the shelves to all teens, but it will hold special interest for those looking for a tear-jerking romance and serious readers of realistic fiction.” —VOYA on LETTERS TO THE LOST
“A great concept, delivered in a compulsively readable package . . . romance readers will stay up late to finish this very satisfying and heartfelt read.” —Booklist on LETTERS TO THE LOST
“Explores the ideas of carving identity out of pain and the way perception colors expectations.” —BCCB on LETTERS TO THE LOST
“Readers will find themselves rooting for the real Declan to win Juliet's heart the same way his online persona did. Consider this tale of modern star-crossed love as a first purchase for YA collections.” —School Library Journal on LETTERS TO THE LOST
- Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / Contemporary
- Young Adult Fiction / Fairy Tales & Folklore / Adaptations
- Young Adult Fiction / Romance
- Young Adult Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship
- Hardcover (January 29th, 2019): $18.99
The amazing Beauty and the Beast twist. Good role models, fantasy, magic, suspense, and a brilliant storyline. An absolute must-read for 12 and up!
In Chinese culture, the jade stone is highly regarded for its protective and healing properties, making it a popular choice for talismans. In Islamic culture, Quranic verses or the depiction of various religious symbols are often used as talismans for protection and blessings. Talismans can be found in various forms, such as pendants, rings, bracelets, or even small objects carried in pockets or bags. They are often worn or carried by individuals seeking specific benefits or protections. It is believed that the talisman serves as a conduit for the supernatural powers it embodies, offering its wearer a sense of security, luck, or other desired qualities. While the use of talismans is often associated with superstition and belief in the supernatural, they hold great meaning for many individuals. Talismans can provide a sense of comfort, strength, or guidance, offering a connection to something greater than oneself. Whether it is through the power of belief or a psychological placebo effect, talismans continue to be used and revered by many cultures and individuals around the world..
Reviews for "Talismans for Luck and Fortune: Enhance Your Good Fortune"
1. Sarah - 1 star
I found "What is the talisman about" to be incredibly confusing and convoluted. The plot seemed to jump around with no clear direction, and it was hard to keep track of what was happening. The characters were also poorly developed and lacked depth, making it hard for me to connect with them. Overall, I was left feeling unsatisfied and frustrated with this book.
2. John - 2 stars
I was really looking forward to reading "What is the talisman about" based on the description, but I was ultimately disappointed. The story started off promising, but quickly became repetitive and predictable. The writing style felt dull and uninspired, lacking the captivating prose I was expecting. I struggled to finish the book and felt little satisfaction in reaching the end.
3. Emily - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "What is the talisman about," but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The plot seemed unoriginal and cliché, following the same tired tropes seen in many other fantasy novels. The pacing was also inconsistent, with long periods of stagnation followed by rushed and confusing action scenes. While the world-building had potential, it was not fully explored or developed. Overall, I was left feeling underwhelmed and wishing for more originality.
4. David - 1 star
"What is the talisman about" was a complete waste of my time. The characters were flat and lacked any depth, making it impossible to care about their struggles or triumphs. The plot was disjointed and confusing, with little explanation or resolution in the end. The writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it a chore to read. I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging and well-crafted story.