Review
"The Spell entrances with its twists and turns through enchanted and cursed
territory. Against a fairytale backdrop, Shaw's tale unfolds through time, with
complex and complicated characters and storylines, as Princess Isabella
struggles to lift the "curse" of her pernicious family, eventually discovering
the power of her own agency—and magic."
-Courtney E. Morgan, author of The Seven Autopsies of Nora Hanneman
"With story lines that warn against focusing too much on the future and not
enjoying the present, The Spell is a captivating fantasy novel...The novel blends
elements of magical realism and historical fantasy in an intriguing way."
-Clarion Review
"A thought-provoking story that traces family relationships that evolve under a
cloud of threat...Readers of romantic fantasy stories...will find The Spell truly
captivating. It's a work that casts its own special magic on the reader's
heart."
-Midwest Book Review
"The Spell by C.V. Shaw is an endearing tale set in 16th-century England, which
takes place not long after King Maurice's war against France. The king's
five-year-old daughter Isabella gets shot by an archer, who appears to be a
mysterious figure. While the stubborn king searches the dark forest for this
archer, his queen Lilac worries about the cursed arrow. The royal family of
Fleurham becomes entangled in a web of magic, adventure, and deception. When the
king returns home after years in captivity, his family struggles to regain the
love and harmony that once bound them together. They must learn to see beyond
the spell, incorporate their fragile roots, and become strong again. The
author's writing will hold your attention from cover to cover, with an
articulate style and vivid descriptions that will transport the reader to the
lush countryside of Fleurham. The plot is intriguing and spellbinding.
Throughout the story, you'll learn of the unique backstories, from the witches
who helped raise Isabella to the housekeeper's family, the king's horse, and
other distinct events that create a fantastic page-turner. Shaw's book is not
only enthralling in the sense of historical fantasy but also contains meaningful
lessons. The family often blames their poor choices on a curse. However, it's
interesting to see how their lives unfold and to discover whether or not a
curse, misfortunate, or other reasons are the root cause of their tragedy within
the family and the kingdom.
The Spell by C.V. Shaw is an immensely detailed and thrilling story that I would
highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy, romance, and historical fiction.
I recommend this stellar book for its gripping storyline and unique emphasis on
accountability and how one event, one decision, can result in a powerful
outcome."
-Literary Titan
"C. V. Shaw's plotting is quickly paced and engaging yet never feels
rushed...Shaw's prose is formal yet unpretentious
and works to help set the scene of the novel. The tone feels appropriate for the
sixteenth century English locale without
being so elevated as to isolate readers...Fans of historical fantasy will find
much to love in Shaw's work."
-The BookLife Prize
"With story lines that warn against focusing too much on the future and not
enjoying the present, The Spell is a captivating fantasy novel."
—Foreword Clarion Reviews
"The Spell" masterfully weaves a royal family's journey through generations. The narrative explores complex relationships - from mother-daughter bonds to marital dynamics - while examining themes of loyalty, betrayal, and romance. Shaw blends magic seamlessly into the plot, creating a believable fantasy world. The Queen's protective actions resonate particularly with parents. Though complete, the story leaves readers eager for more character development through potential sequels or prequels.
-C. Halwani (5/5)
The Spell is a work of fiction in the fantasy, fairy tale, and suspense
sub-genres, and was penned by author C. V. Shaw. Taking the classic atmosphere
of fairy tales and giving them a dark and thrilling twist, we find ourselves in
the kingdom of Fleurham where King Maurice and Queen Lilac each have their own
agendas to try to control the kingdom and save their daughter. Isabella, the
princess in question, lives amongst this power play as a terrible curse plagues
every day of her life. What results is a fantastic adventure mixing
sixteenth-century English history with lavish magic and interpersonal drama.
Author C. V. Shaw has crafted a truly fantastic tale that will surely please
fans of fantasy, fairy tale, and romantic suspense genres, and it packs a whole
lot of passionate punches for a debut novel. One of the things which I really
adored throughout was the building of atmosphere and the way that the mood
shifted with the depiction of different scenes and how the characters physically
reacted to what was happening to them. It gives a strong sense of immersion
where you can be in the character's head and emote with them, and this
connecting kept me rooting for Isabella in particular as the rest of the
exciting plot unfolded. The dialogue too was excellently penned, smacking of
authentic history and character realism. Overall, I would highly recommend The
Spell to fantasy fans for its accomplished writing style, immersive
worldbuilding, and fantastic characters.
- Readers' Favorite
Reader Reviews:
It's a page turner!
During this bizarre time we are living in, I think we all need a captivating
tale to take us far far away into a magical place. This book will do that for
you. You won't be able to put it down. There are plot twists and unexpected
turns that will keep you turning the page wondering what will happen next to
these interesting characters. I highly recommend it!
- A. Leon
"Loved the fantasy and historical side of the book. Amazing message!"
-M.Diaz
The Spell by C. V. Shaw is a unique and different kind of story. It has that
grim fairy tale feel to it but on a more mature level. The characters were very
interesting and fun to read. I especially liked Lilac and Isabella and their
rocky relationship as mother and daughter. I was also surprised by some of the
outcomes that occurred in the novel which kept me on my toes; something that is
good to find in a book. It was quick-paced and straight to the point which
captures readers' attention, making them want to read on. Overall, I think C.V.
Shaw did an excellent job of telling a new type of fairy tale. I am eager to
read more of their work.
- Tiffany Ferrell for Readers' Favorite
I found C. V. Shaw an intriguing author who writes about mysterious spells and
healing plants. The Spell beautifully combines the author's hobbies and passion.
The plot depicts a common theme, but the author weaves in intricate details of
the characters, landscape, and mystical elements to construct an engaging
storyline. The characters feature powerful personalities, allowing the reader to
form an opinion of them. I like Isabella the most. The trials she faced make the
reader bond with her misfortune. Overall, it disappointed me when the book
ended. I wanted to read more about Isabella and her future. Hopefully, Shaw will
delight us with more books in the fantasy genre. The cover of this book drew my
attention, and I am glad I read it.
- Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
Captivating from start to finish. Shaw's vivid descriptions transport readers directly into the story. The pacing makes it impossible to put down.
-D. Jurksaitis
A compelling must-read that immediately draws readers in.
-J.P.
Engaging plot with excellent pacing and a meaningful conclusion.
- A. Deiffrey
A well-crafted fairy tale featuring complex characters and unexpected twists. Recommended for fantasy genre enthusiasts.
-F.P.
Shaw's flowing descriptions bring this fantasy world to life with remarkable clarity.
-K. Taylor
A fast-paced narrative with vivid characters in a realistic magical setting. Features strong, complex female characters. Perfect for fans of magical realism and adventure.
-Douglas (Verified Purchase - May 2024)
A romantic fantasy filled with dynamic characters and plot twists. The magical elements transform characters' lives effectively, from royalty to castle staff. The princess's quest for true love creates an engaging storyline that will appeal to both fantasy and romance readers.
-Doris (January 2025)
About the Author
C.V. Shaw is a novelist native to South Florida. She is the author behind "The Spell." Shaw is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, a Quantum Energy Medicine Practitioner, and a MindScape Instructor. Shaw's poetry and short stories have been published in several journals. Previously as a journalist, she was a feature writer for M.D. News, Florida Medical Business, Miami Herald Neighbors and Club Systems International.
