The Reading Bud

Book Blog by Heena Rathore-Pardeshi

Book Review: The Curse Of Time (Bloodstone #1) by M.J. Mallon

Author: M.J. Mallon
Release Date: 2nd April 2018
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Series: Bloodstone (Book #1)
Edition: E-book
Pages: 237
Publisher: Kyrosmagica Publishing
Blurb:
Fifteen-year-old Amelina Scott lives in Cambridge with her dysfunctional family, a mysterious black cat, and an unusual girl who’s imprisoned within the mirrors located in her house. When an unexpected message arrives inviting her to visit the Crystal Cottage, she sets off on a forbidden pathway where she encounters Ryder, a charismatic, but perplexing stranger.

With the help of a magical paint set, and some crystal wizard stones she discovers the truth about a shocking curse that has destroyed her family’s happiness.

REVIEW

★★★★

The Curse Of Time by M.J. Mallon is an intricate fantasy novel with unique supernatural and magical elements which serves as a highly entertaining read. I had a great time reading this novel and exploring the magical world of Amelina full of magic crystals and enchanted mirrors.

The writing is good, the characterization decent and the pacing and tension in sync with the plot. The plot-progression was good and the character development was something I really appreciated in this story. The simple use of language complimented the plot and made it an enjoyable read.

The only problem I had when I started reading this book was that there were a number of themes running through the book, which at times felt a little bit confusing to me. But as I progressed further in the story, everything started to fall into place, and eventually, everything started to make more sense. So, maybe it was intentional or maybe not, either way, it wasn’t a big issue as I enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it to all fantasy and supernatural readers.

You can also read this review on Goodreads and Amazon

I love reading your comments, so please go ahead…

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

I’m Heena

Welcome to The Reading Bud, my cosy corner of the internet dedicated to all things books and authors. Here, I invite you to join me on a journey of discovering under-represented books, independent and small press authors, and all things book with a touch of love and loud purrs. Let’s get Reading!

Book of the Month

Read this captivating story on the adventures and hardships of Frank Knightlite, a man who strives to illuminate darkness with his lantern in search of answers to life’s questions.
You can get it here.
February 2019
M T W T F S S
 123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728  

Reading is like breathing to me.

Recent Posts

  • Book Spotlight: Shifta by Miles Joyner

    Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring Miles Joyner for his latest release, Shifta. Book: ShiftaAuthor: Miles JoynerSeries: Bazaar Series (Book 2)Publication Date: 09/21/2026Pages: 271 pagesPublisher: World CastleGenre: Crime, TechnothrillerAvailable in: All digital formats, paperback, hardcover,…

  • Book Review: The Price of Breathing by Melanie Faith

    Book Details: Author: Melanie FaithRelease Date: September 15, 2026Series:Genre: Novel in Verse, PoetryFormat: E-book Pages: 134 pagesPublisher: Vine Leaves PressBlurb:“This is a tender, beautifully woven and expertly crafted story told in poems about the power of first loves,…

  • Book Review: Cold Sanctuary by Andrew Beardmore

    Book Details: Author: Andrew BeardmoreRelease Date: 18 March 2026Series: The Nessemiah (Book 2 of 4)Genre: Epic historical fantasyFormat: E-book Pages: 555 pagesPublisher: Ryelands Books (imprint of Halsgrove Publishing)Blurb:Book two of the gripping new historical fantasy series, The Nessemiah.Is…

  • Book Spotlight: Eyes of the Beholder by Swinn Daniels

    Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring Swinn Daniels for his latest release, Eyes of the Beholder. Book: Eyes of the BeholderAuthor: Swinn DanielsPublication Date: Oct 6, 2020Pages: 236 pagesPublisher: –Genre: Urban Fantasy, Dark RomanceAvailable in:…

  • Book Spotlight: Cold Sanctuary by Andrew Beardmore

    Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring Andrew Beardmore for his latest release, Cold Sanctuary. Book: Cold SanctuaryAuthor: Andrew BeardmorePublication Date: 18 March 2025Pages: 555 pagesPublisher: Ryelands Books (imprint of Halsgrove Publishing)Genre: Epic historical fantasyAvailable in:…