Dickens & Rumi
Cover of KINGDOM OF THE CURSED

book

KINGDOM OF THE CURSED

Kerri Maniscalco

Emilia vows to do whatever it takes to avenge her sister, Vittoria. (Ages 14 to 18)

Ages 16+Source checked

Why this age? Dark fantasy violence, murders, threatening supernatural beings, grief, sensual romantic tension, and mature themes make this best suited to older teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age16+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Romance4/5
  • Death of a character3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

The central mystery involves murder, and characters face death throughout the narrative.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of injuries and blood typical of dark fantasy settings, but not gratuitous.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild to moderate profanity suitable for the genre.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Includes secondary characters or nuances consistent with the series, but not a primary focus.

Religious themes2/5
Why this rating?

Features fictionalized demonology and mystical beliefs rather than real-world religious practice.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

Romantic attraction, jealousy, emotional tension, flirtation, and a developing relationship are central alongside the fantasy plot.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Demons, curses, murder investigations, ominous settings, threats, and suspense create a consistently dark and frightening atmosphere.

Sexual content & nudity3/5
Why this rating?

Contains scenes of intense romantic desire, moderate innuendo, and sensual descriptions.

Alcohol or drugs2/5
Why this rating?

Characters consume alcohol and magical substances, often in social or demonic ritual settings.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes fantasy violence, magical battles, and threats of harm involving demonic entities.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Protagonist demonstrates persistence and bravery in a hostile environment.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

High level of imaginative world-building, lore, and magical systems.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Includes a variety of cultural influences within the fantasy setting.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

It may encourage interest in mythology and literary world-building, but teaching factual knowledge is not its purpose.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Empathy is rare in the Seven Circles, but moments of loyalty occur between key characters.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of personal agency, morality, and the consequences of one's choices.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows determination, though her choices are often flawed and complex.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in KINGDOM OF THE CURSED would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in KINGDOM OF THE CURSED, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating