
Seventeen-year-old Rowan is a walking, breathing curse. He just hasn't realized it yet.
Since birth, Rowan has been the object of scorn in his village. The reason? He's a dikyli-an outsider with albino skin and an ominous mark blazoned on his neck. So when his fourth guardian-mother is found dead, all blame falls on him, and he is banished before his life-draining curse can strike again. The only path left to Rowan is clear: He must discover who cursed him and alter his horrible fate-or forever lose everyone he loves.
From facing treacherous seas, soul-devouring Moonshades, and desert terrors, Rowan battles for his very survival to reach his homeland-the far-off kingdom of Shandria, a land rife with hostilities. Dark surprises and back-stabbing betrayals emerge as two devious Iron Barons-who know the scandalous origin of his curse-plot to imprison him in the Mountain of the Damned with the rest of the accursed.
To make matters worse, Rowan's curse threatens to claim another life when he meets Tahira, a spunky, pertly persistent Shandrian who vows to aid him in his quest despite the overwhelming odds. Their alliance of trust and necessity develops into love-a love doomed to end in death if Rowan remains cursed. With the hope of a future hanging in the balance, he must overcome the greatest challenge of his life. For the only way to end his curse is to slay the Conjurer who cast the life-draining spell.
"A rewarding fantasy about a family's curse with strong characters." - Kirkus Reviews
"The Conjurer's Curse is never dull and transports the reader to Rowan's world through vivid descriptions and emotional impact. One thing that really grabs the reader's attention is the excellent use of dialogue. Accents and different dialects are a big part of it, and there are times when the characters come across as very clever. Cotta also proved to be skilled with pacing, based on the plot progression and romance timing.
The Conjurer's Curse is complex and exciting and has beautiful descriptions and dialogue. This would be an excellent read for middle schoolers and above or anyone who wants to experience the adventure in this young adult epic fantasy novel." - Gold Star, Literary Titan
"The zipping plot is punctuated with quiet introspective moments and brilliantly crafted action scenes. The richly detailed characters are given depth and nuance, especially when they struggle with their individual turmoil. Equally intriguing is Cotta's deft examination of how trauma and grief change people and how one's choices shape one's destiny. A brilliant YA fantasy that's as entertaining as it is thoughtful." - The Prairies Book Review
"The omniscient third-person narration delves into the intricacies of the magic system, the power of inner strength and courage, and a character-driven exploration of identity, connection, and belonging. Moments of quiet introspection stealthily seep into the strong narrative as Rowen struggles to find his footing in the vast land of Shandria while seeking answers to his burning questions about identity and discovery. The dramatic tension builds to a satisfying finale, delighting fans of intricate, complex fantasies. Brimming with rich detail in a magic-infused fantasy world and populated by achingly real characters, Cotta's story is thoroughly immersive to get lost in. Brilliantly crafted and thrilling." - BookView Review
"After reading The Conjurer's Curse I have a new favorite genre of literature. The author's writing really kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what would happen next. The creativity and how well the story flowed pulled my imagination in as if I was right there with the characters. I can't wait for more of her books! If you're looking for a great read for ages ranging from middle school all the way to adulthood, this is the book!" - Reviewer, 5 Stars
"This book is fantastic-I couldn't put it down! Such beautiful and rich imagery really draws you in and amazing depth-of-character brings a true connection with the protagonist. I really think Stephanie Cotta is a name we'll hear more of in the near future. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy novels and a well thought out and compelling story." - Reviewer, 5 Stars