Review: Rings of Fate (Curses and Crowns #1) by Melissa de la Cruz

*I received a copy of this book from Raincoast Books in exchange for an honest review.

Rings of Fate

(Curses and Crowns #1)

by Melissa de la Cruz

January 6, 2026

Goodreads Summary:

She’s a barmaid who doesn’t believe in fairy tales. He’s a prince cursed to live one.

Aren Bellamore has no interest in being anyone’s princess. She’s too busy running the Raven’s Beak tavern, fending off unwanted marriage proposals, and dreaming of escape. But when a brush with death and a dangerously handsome stranger upend her life, Aren finds herself bound to a bargain that could change everything.

Prince Dietan has carried the cursed Rings of Fate ancient weapons of devastating power since childhood. The magic is killing him, and the enemies are closing in. To make the journey to reverse his curse, he needs a bride to hide his secrets. Aren wants freedom. Pretending to be his fiancée should give them both what they want.

But as their perilous journey pits them against political schemes, monstrous Kilandrar, and a growing attraction neither can deny, the line between make-believe and destiny begins to blur. And the fate of two kingdoms may depend on whether a cynical barmaid and a cursed prince are willing to risk their hearts.

Review

Rings of Fate piqued my interest with its title and a synopsis promising fun. While there were some witty characters and humorous moments, the story didn’t present anything unique. I especially wanted more of the magic.

As a barmaid, Aren managed life declining one marriage proposal at a time. She worked hard to keep her family comfortable, and it showed in her sisters’ carefree demeanors. I was glad to see Aren seize something for herself when the opportunity arose. Her bargain with Prince Dietan was not an easy one to uphold but again and again, she proved herself worthy. Aren was not to be underestimated.

From their first meeting, Aren and Dietan were destined. Time and again they found themselves by each other’s side. In spite of their deception and station in life, their bond developed organically. Aren and Dietan shared some good banter that morphed into trust and strength. The changes they underwent made their initial antagonism and awkwardness all the more endearing. By the end of Rings of Fate, their pairing felt as natural as breathing.

Perhaps the most disappointing part of Rings of Fate was the magic. Given that it’s the title of the book, I was excited to witness the rings’ powers. But Dietan kept failing. Over and over. It took him so long to figure out how to wield the rings that once he finally did, their greatness didn't feel all that impressive.

While Rings of Fate wasn't the most unique story, I am hoping book two will deliver more because I want to see where the Curses and Crowns series will go. Especially now that the magic seems to be more present!

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.