Jamie Dalton's Cursed By Gold is a captivating tale that weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure, creating a narrative that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. The book's premise, centered around a magical curse and a daring heist, immediately draws readers into a world where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly.

The story follows Scarlet, a determined and resourceful young woman who is part of the Fairy Godmothers’ thieves guild. Her mission is to steal the Bodian necklace from the palace, a task she has failed at once before. The stakes are high for Scarlet; her family's financial situation is dire, and failure could mean being married off to the highest bidder by her stepmother. This personal conflict adds a layer of urgency and depth to Scarlet's character, making her more than just a thief—she is a young woman fighting for her autonomy and the well-being of her family.

On the other side of this tale is Remme, a king cursed to live in isolation, untouched by human warmth or comfort. His curse is a unique twist on the Midas touch—everything he touches turns to gold, except for Scarlet. This intriguing dynamic between the two characters sets the stage for a complex relationship that evolves throughout the story. Remme's character is a study in loneliness and longing, and his interactions with Scarlet bring a sense of hope and possibility to his otherwise bleak existence.

Dalton's exploration of themes such as freedom, sacrifice, and the true value of wealth is both subtle and profound. The curse that afflicts Remme serves as a metaphor for the isolating nature of greed and the emptiness that can accompany material wealth. In contrast, Scarlet's journey highlights the importance of agency and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones. The interplay between these themes is skillfully handled, providing readers with much to ponder long after the final page is turned.

The character development in Cursed By Gold is one of its standout features. Scarlet is a well-rounded protagonist whose motivations are clear and relatable. Her growth from a desperate thief to a woman who understands the true cost of her actions is portrayed with nuance and care. Similarly, Remme's transformation from a cursed king to a man willing to risk everything for a chance at redemption is both compelling and heartwarming. Their relationship, built on mutual understanding and shared goals, is a testament to Dalton's ability to craft believable and engaging character arcs.

Dalton's writing style is both lyrical and accessible, making the fantastical elements of the story feel grounded and real. The world-building is rich and detailed, with the palace and its surrounding lands vividly brought to life through descriptive prose. The magical elements are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, enhancing the story without overshadowing the characters and their journeys.

In comparison to other fantasy novels with similar themes, such as Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses or Naomi Novik's Uprooted, Cursed By Gold stands out for its unique take on the classic fairy tale trope of the cursed king and the daring heroine. Dalton's ability to balance romance, adventure, and introspection sets this book apart, offering readers a fresh perspective on familiar themes.

Overall, Cursed By Gold is a beautifully crafted story that will appeal to fans of fantasy and romance alike. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and thoughtful exploration of themes make it a standout addition to the genre. Jamie Dalton has created a world that is both magical and relatable, inviting readers to lose themselves in a tale of love, courage, and the true meaning of wealth.

For those looking to embark on a journey filled with magic, intrigue, and heart, Cursed By Gold is a must-read. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of fairy tales reimagined for a modern audience.