Star Cursed (Cahill Witch Chronicles, #2)

by Jessica Spotswood

[Angie]

4.5

After falling madly in love with Born Wicked, I had been beyond excited to continue the story of Cate and her sisters in Star Cursed. I am happy to say that it does not disappoint! It begins a month later with Cate having joined the Sisterhood in order to protect Tess and Maura. However, things are not quite as safe for them as she anticipated. The Brotherhood has been cracking down even harder on the women for any tiny display of premonition or misconduct. Word has spread of a new oracle rising, and they're not willing to let her slip by. Now it's up to Cate to protect herself, her sisters, and the other witches while also not exposing them and causing the Second Terror. The story moves slowly, but the tension and danger are constantly building up to that amazing and heartbreaking ending. The only reason Star Cursed gets 4.5 rather than the full 5 stars is because it does get a bit repetitive in places.

Probably my favorite part of Star Cursed was getting to see the extent of the Brotherhood's power and influence over the people, especially the women. Feminism takes on a much stronger role in this sequel than it did the first book, and I loved it! I think the author did a great job at creating this society of villains who are seen as righteous men by many, when really they're quite immoral when it comes down to it. The edicts that they pass are horrific, and even more horrifying is that sometimes their reasoning makes sense. In a twisted way. It's easy to see how some people would be supportive of them, but there's also a rebellion brewing, and not just among the oppressed women! Their actions play a pivotal role in the plot as Cate tries to lead the Sisters against them.

I also really loved Cate's relationships with her sisters in Star Cursed. It was very clear in Born Wicked that the girls are very different and each relate to others in different ways. While plotting on how to save the witches and other girls who have been arrested, Cate and Maura's relationship is strained, but Cate grows closer with Tess, which in turn pushes Maura away from Tess also. Cate struggles a lot with trying to keep her sisters together while also doing the right thing for the greater good. I believe Maura has finally gone off the deep end. I really enjoyed watching her spiral out of control and the rivalry she creates with Cate over who is the prophecised witch. It was also nice getting to know the youngest Cahill sister, too. I am growing quite fond of Tess who at times seems much older than her nearly thirteen years. After that ending, the sibling dynamics are sure to change again, and I'm eager to see how!

I find reviews for books I love to be quite hard to write. Star Cursed was a pleasure to read and I loved just about everything about it! Fans of the first book will likely not be disappointed. Everything is built upon and expanded on, and I loved learning more about the witches and the Brotherhood. There's also a fun scene where the young witches use their powers on each other! Of course there is some romance, but I haven't said anything about it for a reason. You'll just have to read to find out!

Read more of my reviews at Pinkindle Reads & Reviews.