Kingdom of the Cursed

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. The story is a blend of dark fantasy, high-stakes political intrigue, and a slow-burn romance. Which of these elements did you find most compelling, and how well do you think they were balanced throughout the novel?

2. For those who have read Kerri Maniscalco’s Stalking Jack the Ripper series, how does Kingdom of the Cursed compare? Do you see any similarities in her writing style or in how she develops her heroines?

3. What was your reaction to the final reveal that Vittoria faked her own death and orchestrated Emilia’s journey to Hell? Did this twist feel earned, and how did it change your perspective on the events of the book?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Emilia learns to channel her grief into a focused rage, using it as a source of power and motivation. Think of a time when you have turned initially unfocused anger toward a directed purpose. What where the benefits and disadvantages of this?

2. Anir advises Emilia that Wrath lives by the principle of “actions, not words.” When have you found that someone’s actions told a more truthful story than their words and how did that make you feel?

3. Emilia reflects on the mortal world’s double standards, where female desire is often treated as shameful. In what ways have you felt shame? Do you think some of this shame was an external construct and why?

4. The courts of Hell are built on half-truths, strategic omissions, and political posturing. Think about a time you had to navigate a complex social or professional situation. What strategies did you use?

5. Wrath and Emilia often discuss personal agency and choice. What does this mean to you and in what ways do you exercise agency in your life?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does the novel’s depiction of Hell reflect modern ideas about power, politics, and social hierarchies?

2. How did the inclusion of authentic Italian folklore, like the strega tradition and the cornicello amulet, impact your reading experience? Did grounding the magic in real-world cultural practices change how you viewed the novel’s fantasy elements?

3. In what ways does the novel’s exploration of female sexuality intersect with current debate around sexual freedoms and content, especially for young adults?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. How does the recurring motif of blood bargains and oaths support the novel as a romantasy?

2. How does Wrath’s character utilize and/or challenge traditional archetypes of evil?

3.  How is food and drink presented in the novel? What role does this play?

4. The Prologue provides readers with knowledge about the First Witch and the king’s curse that Emilia lacks for most of the book. How did this use of dramatic irony affect your perception of Emilia’s choices and Wrath’s motivations?

5. Was the first-person narrative effective in immersing you in Emilia’s state of constant suspicion and disorientation? How might the story have been different if it included chapters from Wrath’s point of view?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Not all of the seven Houses are depicted in detail in the novel. Choose one that is not shown and describe how it looks and feels, reflecting its function within Hell.

2. Write a journal entry from the perspective of Vittoria based on what you think her real actions and motivations have been.

3. Step into the shoes of the Crone as Emilia prepares to confront her sister. What cryptic, final piece of advice would you give her before she travels to the Shifting Isles?