Book Review: Arcana: The Cursed Fate by Sam Prentice-Jones

The Cursed Fate is the spellbinding sequel to Sam Prentice-Jones’ The Lost Heirs, in his début graphic novel series, Arcana. Picking up immediately from where The Lost Heirs left off, this second work delves quickly into magic and adventure. Eli, James, Daphne, Grayson and Koko – with help from new allies – need to discover what is causing the curse hanging over them, and find a way to defeat it once and for all.

Much like The Lost Heirs, The Cursed Fate uses tarot cards to theme each chapter, drawing on the lore and meaning to drive the plot. Building on the foundations laid out in book one, this novel offers even further revelations and secrets presenting further layers of backstory, ancestry, and the history of the coven in general, which are woven cleverly around the characters.

The Cursed Fate is a fantasy graphic novel that explores grief, connection, identity, and family in all its forms; whether biological or chosen. Through the undoing of the witches’ generational curse, the novel also reflects the generational trauma that can be passed through in families, in particular, with regard to queer children.

While this second graphic novel is faster-paced and more action-packed from the start that its predecessor, Sam Prentice-Jones’ creations are very much character-driven works. Both graphic novels are filled with LGBTQ+ characters who live openly and joyously in this enchanting world.  Conjuring beautiful queer friendships and romances with tender writing and stunningly detailed illustrations, The Cursed Fate is the perfect follow-up to The Lost Heirs. While Sam Prentice-Jones says that this novel marks: “The end… for now”, I very much hope this is the last we see of Arcana and these loveable, fun and thoughtful characters.

With thanks to Hot Key Books for the review copy of this book.

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