Cursed Under London

By: Gabby Hutchinson Crouch

Narrated by: Gabby Hutchinson Crouch

The hilarious first novel in a cosy and inclusive historical romantasy series by the writer of Horrible Histories Two strangers. Two Londons. Two hearts that won’t stop beating…

In an alternative Elizabethan London, Fang awakes from his death to discover he is not quite human anymore. In fact, despite having somehow acquired the power of immortality, he’s also not quite vampire, zombie, werewolf or any of the other supernatural beings who roam the twin cities of Upper London and its underground counterpart, Deep London. A jaded traveller from the Ming Empire, Fang is desperate to find a way to reverse the spell and get on with being dead when he stumbles upon Lazare de Quitte-Beuf, a theatrical Frenchman who is afflicted with the same mysterious condition.

Thrown together by the curse they share, the two men set out to undo the strange magic that binds them. As they are drawn further into the shadowy world of Deep London, they unearth a dangerous plot which they appear to be right in the middle of… And, surely, when in grave danger, the worst thing they could do would be to fall in love, wouldn’t it?

©2024 Gabby Hutchinson Crouch (P)2024 Duckworth Books

Elizabethan Escapades with a Twist

Huge thanks to Farrago Books and NetGalley for letting me crash this fantastical Elizabethan party!

Instead of stuffy nobility, we meet a diverse cast of characters, all immigrants to this hidden world. They bring a unique perspective to Elizabethan London, both above and below ground. The story unfolds at a brisk pace, fueled by witty dialogue and unexpected plot twists. As the adventure progresses, we learn more about each character's motivations and how their paths intertwine.

The story's a laugh riot, with banter sharper than Henry VIII's temper. You'll be racing through the streets (and tunnels!) of "Upper" and "Lower" London, dodging curses and swooning over this mismatched crew. Just when you think you've got a handle on someone, BAM! The author throws in another hilarious quirk to their backstory.

Word to the Wise: Don't Get Hung Up on History

Now, some folks might scoff at the anachronisms (hello, zombie Kit Marlowe!) or the fact that the Queen's guard features more beaks than boots. But listen here – when your royal constabulary is a squad of talking swans, historical accuracy goes out the window with a flamboyant feather boa. Just roll with it and enjoy the ride!

Cliffhanger? More Like Cliff-Diving!

Be warned, though, this wild romp ends with enough unanswered questions to leave you dangling precariously over a plot hole. Don't worry, though – the breadcrumbs are clearly scattered for a sequel, and frankly, I can't wait to see where this delightfully absurd adventure goes next.

Finally, kudos to the author for being the narrator for her own book! I've seen that go wrong before but she does a great job!

So, should you read it? Absolutely! If you're looking for a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud fantasy romp with a dash of romance (and a talking swan with a badge, because why not?), then Cursed Under London is your new Elizabethan bestie.