Harlow Duncan's Cursed is a dark, enthralling tale that plunges readers into a world where magic and malevolence intertwine, creating a narrative that is as captivating as it is unsettling. The book is the first installment in the Wicked Heirs Series, and it sets the stage for a saga filled with intrigue, passion, and the eternal struggle between light and darkness.

At the heart of the story is Avril Velez, a protagonist whose life has been overshadowed by forces she never understood until she is thrust into the clutches of Lucian Romano, a dark sorcerer with a sinister agenda. The revelation that her soul was sold to Lucian two decades ago is a chilling premise that immediately hooks the reader, setting the tone for a narrative that is both suspenseful and emotionally charged.

Avril's character is complex and multifaceted. She is portrayed as a woman of resilience and strength, forced to navigate a treacherous world where trust is a luxury she cannot afford. Her journey from ignorance to empowerment is one of the book's most compelling aspects. Duncan skillfully develops Avril's character, allowing readers to witness her transformation as she grapples with her identity and the dark forces that seek to control her.

The dynamic between Avril and her three stepbrothers—Titus, Valen, and Bastian—is another intriguing element of the story. Their relationships are fraught with tension, desire, and rivalry, creating a complex web of emotions that adds depth to the narrative. Each brother is distinct in personality and motivation, and Duncan does an excellent job of fleshing out their characters, making them more than mere archetypes of dark romance.

Titus is the brooding, enigmatic figure whose loyalty is as questionable as his intentions. Valen, on the other hand, is the charming yet dangerous seducer, while Bastian embodies a more volatile and unpredictable nature. The interplay between these characters and Avril is a masterclass in tension-building, as their interactions oscillate between seductive allure and perilous manipulation.

Lucian Romano, the dark sorcerer, is a formidable antagonist whose presence looms large over the narrative. His obsession with Avril and his twisted plans for her serve as the catalyst for much of the story's conflict. Duncan paints Lucian as a character who is both terrifying and fascinating, a villain whose motivations are rooted in a deep-seated desire for power and control.

The themes of power, control, and freedom are central to Cursed. Avril's struggle to reclaim her autonomy in a world that seeks to bind her is a powerful narrative thread that resonates throughout the book. The moral ambiguity of the characters and their actions adds layers of complexity to the story, prompting readers to question the nature of good and evil.

In terms of writing style, Duncan excels in creating a vivid and immersive atmosphere. Her descriptions of Lucian's estate and the dark, magical world are richly detailed, drawing readers into a setting that is both enchanting and foreboding. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, introspective scenes that allow for character development.

One of the book's strengths is its ability to maintain suspense and intrigue. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the labyrinthine relationships and hidden agendas of the characters. The revelation of Lucian's chilling plans and the brothers' subsequent plot to overthrow him adds a layer of urgency to the narrative, culminating in a climax that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.

However, it is important to note that Cursed contains themes and content that may be triggering for some readers. The book is intended for an adult audience, and Duncan does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of human nature and desire. Readers should approach the story with an awareness of its mature themes and potential triggers.

In comparison to other dark fantasy romances, such as Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series or Anne Bishop's The Black Jewels trilogy, Cursed stands out for its intricate character dynamics and its exploration of the moral complexities of power and desire. Duncan's ability to weave a narrative that is both darkly seductive and emotionally resonant sets her work apart in the genre.

Overall, Cursed is a compelling start to the Wicked Heirs Series, offering readers a tantalizing blend of magic, romance, and intrigue. Harlow Duncan has crafted a story that is as haunting as it is captivating, leaving readers eager to discover what lies ahead for Avril and her companions. For those who enjoy dark fantasy with a touch of romance and a dash of danger, Cursed is a must-read.