Published: 2022
Author: Joni Sensel
Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Magic, Young Adult
Audience (Grade Levels): Grades 9–12
Number of Stars: 4-Stars
Goodreads Link: A Curse on the Wind
Triggers: Mention of curses, cemetery settings, emotional manipulation by a supernatural entity, heavy religious references
Review By: Gina Iorio
Publisher’s Summary:
“In A CURSE ON THE WIND, a would-be actress, a good-looking gravedigger, and a cemetery haunted by an invisible power collide with the unintended consequences of a curse. This YA historical fantasy features 17-year-old Gethsemane, who gives in during a weak moment and casts a dramatic curse against someone who wronged her. In 1909 Ohio, buzzing with modern machines and inventions, she never expects it to work. When the spirit of the Wind delivers her curse and expects her to marry it in return, she has to somehow escape its unwanted attention or give up the chance to ever be loved. Only by facing her own shadow and trusting an unlikely ally can she outsmart the Wind to find true love instead.”
Review:
This novel had a lot of elements that I love in a good book. A cemetery, historical setting, and a curse. What else could one ask for? There is a touch of romance in the novel as well, but it is handled nicely and isn’t heavy handed. The characters were well rounded and interesting and I enjoyed the historical setting. I thought the pacing was good and I was drawn in as a reader. While I did enjoy the plot I did feel there were a lot of references to God which was a bit much for me, but others may not feel the same. Regardless, I believe readers will be swept away as they cheer for Gert as she tries to free herself from the spirit of the Wind so that she can marry the man she loves. A Curse on the Wind is a fun read and for that reason I think teenagers will enjoy this novel.
The story does an excellent job of presenting its unique premise—mixing the rapid industrial advancements of 1909 Ohio with ancient, untamed elemental magic. The main character, Gethsemane (Gert), feels wonderfully authentic as a teenager who makes a reckless mistake in a moment of passion, only to face terrifying, magical consequences. Her dynamic with the supernatural spirit of the Wind introduces a unique, atmospheric tension that keeps the pages turning.
For educators and school librarians, the novel’s historical backdrop provides a solid starting point for discussions on the early 20th century, specifically the juxtaposition of human scientific progress with folklore and superstition. It serves as a strong addition to middle and high school collections for those seeking historical fantasy that is atmospheric but relatively light on romance. The cover’s eerie, magical aesthetic is sure to attract readers who are fans of gothic mysteries and historical romances. Overall, it is a creative and highly engaging read that successfully blends folklore and history.
Classroom & Curricular Connections:
- ELA / Literature: Great for examining the structure of a classic folklore-style “bargain” or curse in a modern novel, analyzing character growth, and exploring how an author uses setting (1909 Ohio) to establish mood.
- Social Studies / History: Connects to units on the Turn of the Century (early 1900s), focusing on the rise of modern machinery, inventions, and shifting social norms at the dawn of the industrial era.
- SEL (Social-Emotional Learning): Excellent for discussions on dealing with anger, understanding the long-term consequences of impulsive actions, and learning to face one’s “shadow” to find personal agency and true independence.
Readalikes:
- A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
- The Diviners by Libba Bray
- In the Shadow of the Sun by E.K. Johnston
