Book Review: The Haunted Portal: An Epic Urban Fantasy Action Adventure (Cursebreaker, Book 2) by JT Lawrence
From the moment I opened the pages of The Haunted Portal, I was transported back to the thrilling world of urban fantasy that JT Lawrence has crafted so skillfully. As someone who adores adventure tinged with magic, I couldn’t resist diving into Asha’s journey, especially after hearing the buzz surrounding this series. Lawrence has a knack for pulling readers into the intricate webs of her stories, and this book is no exception.
In this second installment, we follow Asha, a determined witch, as she navigates a chilling mystery around missing girls while facing her own personal demons. The stakes skyrocket when she decides to pursue a runaway, Dusty, whose life is just as fraught as Asha’s. Dusty’s backstory is surprisingly poignant; running from abusive parents, she finds solace at the Copperfield Institute—Asha’s alma mater and a beacon of magical hope. This dual narrative not only adds depth to both characters but also perfectly illustrates the theme of finding refuge and empowerment in unexpected places.
The plot thickens when the cheerful Delport family moves into their new, seemingly perfect home—only to be met by the playful yet sinister presence of childlike ghosts. Asha’s involvement adds a layer of urgency to the haunting as she battles not just malevolent spirits but also the ineptitude of a charlatan “ghostbuster.” Here’s where Lawrence truly shines—her ability to blend humor with dark themes provides a refreshing balance, making the characters relatable amidst the chaos.
One of the standout elements for me was Asha’s journey through the magical booby traps into the surreal hellscape known as Oblivion. The vivid descriptions and Lawrence’s engaging writing style transported me into Asha’s world, making me feel the panic of entrapment as if it was my own. The pacing was swift and dynamic, keeping me hooked from start to finish. I couldn’t help but note how so many readers echoed my sentiments with praise for the “well-written, well-paced” prose. The twists and turns were enough to keep even the most seasoned urban fantasy reader guessing!
Among memorable quotes, one resonated particularly: “Even in darkness, there’s a flicker of hope that guides the lost.” This line encapsulated the essence of Asha’s journey, a theme I found deeply comforting and relatable. The balance between light-hearted banter, adventurous twists, and heart-wrenching backstories made this read unforgettable.
For anyone who enjoys a blend of mystery, humor, and a touch of romance wrapped in magical realism, The Haunted Portal is an absolute must-read. It may just leave you yearning for more adventures in Asha’s world. Personally, I walked away feeling inspired and grateful for the escape into such a clever, enchanting narrative. JT Lawrence has not only captured my attention with this novel but has also solidified my eagerness to follow Asha’s future escapades—wherever they may lead.
In conclusion, grab your wand, cozy up with a cup of tea, and prepare for a wild ride with The Haunted Portal. You won’t regret it!