This story wrapped itself around my heart in the softest, strangest way. It’s tender and haunting, full of whimsy and warmth, with a quiet magic that sneaks up on you. The writing feels like a daydream, where myth and girlhood blend into something delicate and powerful. I loved how deeply this book believes in sisterhood, in choosing each other again and again, even when things fall apart. It’s a story about inheritance and identity, but also about what it means to grow into your own kind of magic. Completely enchanting.

I thoroughly enjoyed diving into the Farthing sisters’ whimsical, mystical world—especially the fantastical belief that they’re descended from Persephone herself! (Although I must admit, I found their last name just a touch too ironic.) These four sisters gave off major Little Women vibes, only with magical powers and the ability to see a ghost: Henry, a 17-year-old boy who has lived in their attic since they were children. The girls share a special bond with him, keeping his presence a secret from the outside world.

Their dynamic is intriguing—while their eccentric, sociable parents occasionally venture off to host gatherings and outings, the sisters are much more introverted and tightly knit. They spend their days wandering through museums, taking long walks in Central Park (Winnie, our protagonist, even strolls there at night despite the lurking city dangers), sipping coffee at their favorite breakfast spots, and rummaging through thrift shops (a favorite pastime of Bernadette, the eldest).

The narrative unfolds at a slow burn, with much of the focus on the deeply rooted connection between the sisters. Winnie, the third sister and our thoughtful narrator, is a late-blooming 16-year-old with a big heart and observant nature—very much the Beth of the family. She often finds herself worrying about her sisters, especially Bernadette, the oldest at 20, who suddenly returns home bruised and stormy after dropping out of college. Evelyn, 18, is the practical yet romantically-inclined second sister, clearly emotionally tied to ghost-boy Henry and desperate to break free from their family home. And then there’s 14-year-old Clara, artistic, eccentric, and connected to Persephone’s daughter—the goddess of nightmares. Her abstract, haunting paintings seem to look straight through you.

When Winnie makes a mistake that spirals out of control, letting her fury cloud her judgment, it not only threatens her bond with Evelyn but also sets off a chain of events that could bring apocalyptic consequences to their lives. The only way to undo the damage? She must reunite with her sisters—and team up with the spectral boy they’ve long held dear—to restore balance before it’s too late.

Overall: This is a beautifully eerie, slow-building fantasy that reads like a paranormal tribute to Little Women, infused with Greek mythology, witchcraft, and ghostly secrets. While it’s not the kind of high-stakes, action-packed fantasy that shakes your soul, it still captivated me from page one. Winnie and Clara absolutely stole my heart with their growth and charm. Evelyn, however, occasionally frustrated me with her short-sighted choices—but the authentic, unconditional bond between the sisters ultimately won me over.

Final rating: 4 stars, rounded up from 3.5, for the powerful, sacred connection of sisterhood and the bittersweet beauty of their magical world.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Wednesday Books for sharing this intriguing fantasy tale with me in digital format in exchange for my honest thoughts!

This novel is an interesting modern set novel that focuses on four sisters who according to their aunt and mother that they are descended from the greek goddess Persephone. Overall this novel was very different from what I usually read however it was still very good. If anything it gave off a modern day / supernatural Little Women kind of vibe. I will say this novel was a interesting experience

WOW! This was such a lovely story about sisters, love, magic, and myth. The characters in this felt so real with all their flaws and emotions that you can’t help but to care for them.
Their journey was something both heartbreaking and comforting, especially as they strive to navigate who they are through sacrifice and strength.
Thank you St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for this arc💕

Persephone's Curse
by Katrina Leno
Pub Date: Dec 02 202

Are the four Farthing sisters really descended from Persephone? This is what their aunt has always told them: that the women in their family can trace their lineage right back to the Goddess of the Dead. And maybe she's right, because the Farthing girls do have a ghost in the attic of their Manhattan brownstone —a kind and gentle ghost named Henry, who only they can see.

When one of the sisters falls in love with the ghost, and another banishes him to the Underworld, the sisters are faced with even bigger questions about who they are. If they really are related to Persephone, and they really are a bit magic, then perhaps it’s up to them to save Henry, to save the world, and to save each other.

Wow. This book absolutely wrecked me—in the best way. I was immediately drawn in from the very first page. The characters felt so incredibly real, like people I’ve known or could know. Their emotions, decisions, even their flaws—everything was so authentic that I forgot I was reading fiction.

The pacing was pitch-perfect. Every chapter pulled me deeper in, and I genuinely had to know what happened next. It’s one of those rare reads where you tell yourself “just one more chapter,” and suddenly it’s 2AM and your heart’s in pieces.

It was heartbreaking in so many ways, but never for shock value—it was earned, layered, and human. I connected deeply with Winnie, which hasn’t happened for me in a while. I’ve read a few books recently that I liked, but this one hit differently. I needed something deep and meaningful, and this story delivered that emotional weight I was craving.

I loved the journey from start to finish. It wasn’t just a plot—it was a whole experience. I know I’ll be thinking about this one for a long time. There’s a tear in my heart for real.

** A copy of Persephone's Curse was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review **

Persephone's Curse is a beautiful story of four sisters, a ghost, myth and magic! It's Little Women mixed with Greek mythology and magical realism, with a dose of NYC love. Katrina Leno is so skilled at writing poignant stories with female protagonists! Highly recommend!

This book left me feeling bewitched and deeply moved. It’s a celebration of sisterhood, sacrifice, and the belief that even the most impossible things are worth fighting for.