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Thank you to Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Farrago Books, and NetGalley for a galley of this in exchange for an honest review.

Cursed Under London is a wild romp of a book, filled with humour and affection. You can absolutely tell that this short, wild, and hilarious novel was penned by one of the creative minds behind Horrible Histories.

In an alternative Elizabethan London magicals and non-magicals live in tenuous harmony, divided into two Queendoms: Upper London, the domain of Queen Elizabeth and living, non-magical subjects; and Lower London, the domain of the fearsome Queen Redthroat, populated by zombies, vampires, werewolves, dragons and assorted magicals. Strict rules separate the London’s, and allow the citizens of both to co-exist in relative peace, but things are changing in Upper London. First Lazare, and then Fang fall victim to an unusual curse, gangs become more brazen, strange happenings abound, and soon all of London becomes a powder-keg waiting to light.

This was a delightful read. I loved the humour, and the way our characters interacted. There was a strong sense of found family, and and intriguing through line that propelled the story forward even in the lulls. Lazare and Fang were fully realised, and deeply lovable characters. London itself, both above and below, managed to become a lovable character all of its own. I thoroughly enjoyed all the Renaissance references, and particularly the appearance of two Renaissance drama superstars!

I think this is going to be an amazing series, and I am really looking forward to reading more about Fang and Lazare and their adventures! 3.5 stars.