Cursed, the sequel to Marissa Meyer’s Gilded, continues the dark fairy tale retelling inspired by Rumpelstiltskin. This installment picks up directly after the cliffhanger ending of Gilded, thrusting readers back into the chaotic world of Adalheid Castle.

Overview of Cursed

In Cursed, Serilda, the protagonist, finds herself ensnared in a perilous game orchestrated by the Erlking. He aims to exploit her storytelling abilities to achieve his own nefarious goals, including seeking vengeance against the seven gods who have imprisoned the Dark Ones. Serilda is not only fighting for her own survival but also working with Gild to uncover his forgotten name and past, all while protecting their unborn child from the Erlking’s wrath

The narrative blends romance and adventure, showcasing Serilda’s growth as she learns to harness her powers for good. The stakes are high as she and Gild attempt to break their curses before the Endless Moon arrives, which threatens to seal their fates forever

Themes and Reception

Cursed explores themes of fate, identity, and the power of storytelling. It delves into the complexities of its characters, particularly Serilda’s emotional evolution from impulsiveness to maturity as she navigates motherhood and her role as a storyteller

Critics have praised Meyer for her intricate world-building and the darker tones that permeate this sequel, likening it to classic Grimms’ fairy tales while still maintaining a fresh perspective

Readers have noted the book’s immersive atmosphere, filled with gothic elements and rich lore that expands upon the original tale. The character dynamics between Serilda and Gild are highlighted as particularly compelling, marked by tension and deep emotional connections

Content Warnings

While Cursed is recommended for ages 14 and up, it contains mature themes such as violence, death (including references to infant loss), and scenes depicting animal abuse within its fantastical context. These elements contribute to its darker narrative style but may be sensitive for some readers Overall, Cursed promises an engaging conclusion to the Gilded duology, appealing to both fans of dark fairy tales and those new to Meyer’s work.