Love and Other Curses (2026) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

Romance is a central element, described by the publisher as featuring 'a lot more kissing.' Content includes romantic tension, embracing, and frequent affectionate exchanges between the main protagonists, Aurelia and Jules, though scenes remain within Young Adult standards without explicit sexual mechanics. The couple shares moments of physical closeness while studying in private rooms or attending formal events. Characters often express their devotion through touch, holding hands, and long gazes that signify…

The book features fantasy violence involving spells, malevolent magic, and confrontation with an antagonistic coven. Characters face peril during a heist and magical attacks; while there are descriptions of magical strain and injury, the gore is minimal and focused on the mystical stakes. Combat often involves energy blasts, elemental magic, and the psychological toll of dark curses. During the heist in Chapter 22, characters dodge magical traps that threaten to ensnare or burn them. The climax features a…

Language is generally mild to moderate, consistent with contemporary YA fantasy, featuring occasional use of terms like 'hell' or 'damn' in high-stress magical situations. Students at the academy occasionally use these words when their spells fail or when they are surprised by the appearance of dark magic. In Chapter 8, characters use mild profanity while arguing about the safety of their coven. The tone is respectful of the academic setting, and there is no use of harsh racial slurs or extreme obscenities. The…

Substance use is not a primary focus, though college-themed social settings like balls may include mentions of drinking or celebratory toasts common in the genre. During the university ball in the later chapters, characters are seen holding glasses of wine or punch, though no one is depicted as significantly impaired. There is no focus on illegal narcotics or the abuse of alcohol; drinking is treated as a social background element for the older students and professors. Some magical potions are described as having…

Major themes include loyalty to one's coven, the ethics of tethering magic, resisting corruption, and the transition into young adulthood at a magical institution. Aurelia struggles with the weight of her heritage and the fear that her power might cause harm to those she loves most, particularly Jules. The book explores the concept of consent through 'tethering,' asking if a bond can truly be equal when magic is involved. Characters must choose between the safety of tradition and the risks of using 'Old Magic' to…