The Encanto's Curse (The Encanto's Daughter, 2)

By: Melissa de la Cruz

Narrated by: Leiana Bertrand

The vampire queen must break her curse in this YA romantasy inspired by Filipino folklore, a sequel to The Encanto’s Daughter by #1 New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz!

A curse has befallen Biringan. Stalking the night sky and sinking sharp teeth in its prey, a vampire-like creature—a manananggal—is terrorizing the kingdom. Now MJ Robertson-Rodriguez must fulfill her duties as the newly crowned queen and restore peace. Except . . . when MJ wakes up in tattered clothes stained with blood, she quickly realizes the monster lives within her.

To prevent more destruction, MJ flees to Mount Makiling with select members of her court, all while keeping her curse secret. By her side is Lucas, the talented knight who broke her heart by giving his own to another. And there’s Prince Qian, the devilishly handsome monster hunter from the Jade Empire who's visiting on a diplomatic mission.

In the mountains, MJ is charmed by Qian's valiant spirit. Could he be the one to finally mend her broken heart, which still beats for Lucas? But as the manananggal fills MJ with bloodthirst, she must set love aside and break the curse before it consumes her forever.

When a neighboring kingdom threatens to wage war on Biringan, can the young queen regain control of herself before she loses control of the crown?

Critic reviews

A Forbes Most Anticipated Young Adult Book of 2025

"The lush backdrop, infused with Philippine folklore, sets this fantasy series with a racially diverse cast apart. The horror elements are also well executed... A rousing sequel..." —Kirkus

"A strong conclusion to a fantasy duology inspired by Filipino folklore that brings much needed representation to the genre." —School Library Journal

The most amazing Filipino folklore ever

It feels like I am reading the Disney and Marvel books of Mulan and The Hulk. It's that amazing. Melissa De La Cruz is such a beautiful and incredible author and her books are way beyond incredible. Hope that she can help and teach me how to craft a Children's fantasy fiction series called The Creation Of Magical Arts And Books.