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Shadowblade Academy #1
Darkness Calls
At Shadowblade Academy, everyone fears the shadows…
Being the ordinary sister of a supernatural powerhouse isn’t fun. I live in the Crust, an outsider town for normies, while she gallivants around her top-secret academy for Abnorms.
Then everything goes sideways on my twenty-first birthday. Mediums scream at me like possessed nuns. Dudes pop out of shadows, trying to kidnap me. My dreams become very strange.
Most importantly, my sister goes missing.
I have to go looking for her, which means finding her school. Problem is, I learn the academy trains magical assassins who manipulate shadows. Badass but terrifying.
Bullies at the academy don’t think I belong. Smoldering fae, vampire, and shifter men are obsessed with me for different reasons: attraction, hate, suspicion. And who the hell is the sexy ghost-man haunting my dreams?
I’m trapped in a place where I’m always looking over my shoulder, and I can’t even trust my own shadow…
DARKNESS CALLS is the first book in the Shadowblade Academy series, a steamy, why choose paranormal romance with a splash of darkness. It features a female lead who takes no crap, and troubled but strong mates. Expect mystery, steam, dark humor, and edge-of-your-seat action!
Being the ordinary sister of a supernatural powerhouse isn’t fun. I live in the Crust, an outsider town for normies, while she gallivants around her top-secret academy for Abnorms.
Then everything goes sideways on my twenty-first birthday. Mediums scream at me like possessed nuns. Dudes pop out of shadows, trying to kidnap me. My dreams become very strange.
Most importantly, my sister goes missing.
I have to go looking for her, which means finding her school. Problem is, I learn the academy trains magical assassins who manipulate shadows. Badass but terrifying.
Bullies at the academy don’t think I belong. Smoldering fae, vampire, and shifter men are obsessed with me for different reasons: attraction, hate, suspicion. And who the hell is the sexy ghost-man haunting my dreams?
I’m trapped in a place where I’m always looking over my shoulder, and I can’t even trust my own shadow…
DARKNESS CALLS is the first book in the Shadowblade Academy series, a steamy, why choose paranormal romance with a splash of darkness. It features a female lead who takes no crap, and troubled but strong mates. Expect mystery, steam, dark humor, and edge-of-your-seat action!
420 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
About the author
K.C. Kingmaker
25 books112 followersKC Kingmaker lives in San Diego and has been writing and reading fantasy and romance for years.
"Briarwitch Academy" was KC’s first foray into paranormal romance, trying to bridge the genres to make something steamy, funny, mysterious, action-packed, and most of all, fun!
"Dragon Shifter Dominion" came after, trying to meld that same steaminess with traditional fantasy, to create a romantic fantasy explosion!
"Shadowblade Academy," KC’s third series, is technically a spin-off of Briarwitch Academy, though it can be read as a standalone series. It has just as much intrigue and mystery and steam as the others, but things get a bit darker.
"Camelot Untold," KC’s fourth series, is a deep, dark dive into the rich lore of Arthurian legends. It’s reverse harem fantasy romance.
"Robin Hood and Her Merciless Men" is KC’s fifth series, and another spicy, dark retelling of an iconic legend.
"Briarwitch Academy" was KC’s first foray into paranormal romance, trying to bridge the genres to make something steamy, funny, mysterious, action-packed, and most of all, fun!
"Dragon Shifter Dominion" came after, trying to meld that same steaminess with traditional fantasy, to create a romantic fantasy explosion!
"Shadowblade Academy," KC’s third series, is technically a spin-off of Briarwitch Academy, though it can be read as a standalone series. It has just as much intrigue and mystery and steam as the others, but things get a bit darker.
"Camelot Untold," KC’s fourth series, is a deep, dark dive into the rich lore of Arthurian legends. It’s reverse harem fantasy romance.
"Robin Hood and Her Merciless Men" is KC’s fifth series, and another spicy, dark retelling of an iconic legend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 27, 2022
Did not love but did not hate. Fell in the meh category.
First, what I liked. Coralia was sassy and quick witted which is an aspect I enjoy. The RH was established early on with each having their pros and cons made clear. Solid secondary characters.
Second, what I did not like. I did not research if there was a previous series which included Myria. Where Myria is concerned I felt information was missing. Coralia did not really seem invested in finding her sister. Leading me to disconnect from this aspect of the storyline.... which finding Myria was the purpose of the storyline.... aka it did not feel like the major storyline. Now I am rambling.
Third issue.... for a RH there was not a lot of sexy time. *sigh*
Book 2 is a maybe, but definitely not in a hurry.
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
First, what I liked. Coralia was sassy and quick witted which is an aspect I enjoy. The RH was established early on with each having their pros and cons made clear. Solid secondary characters.
Second, what I did not like. I did not research if there was a previous series which included Myria. Where Myria is concerned I felt information was missing. Coralia did not really seem invested in finding her sister. Leading me to disconnect from this aspect of the storyline.... which finding Myria was the purpose of the storyline.... aka it did not feel like the major storyline. Now I am rambling.
Third issue.... for a RH there was not a lot of sexy time. *sigh*
Book 2 is a maybe, but definitely not in a hurry.
Happy reading,
DD 🥂
February 22, 2022
CALLING ALL METALHEADS, THE CAT'S NAME IS BRUCE KITTENSON.
Great opener, wouldn't you agree? If I wasn't already going to read everything KC Kingmaker writes, naming a precious little cat after the lead singer of Iron Maiden would surely convince me to start.
Coralia's story has some similarities with Dawn's (Briarwitch Academy), except poor Coralia got whisked away through shadows, while Dawn mostly agreed to go to her school.
And Briarwitch Academy is also mentioned throughout the book, as is Dawn, and to my great surprise so is Levia (Dragon Shifter Dominion). SO THAT MEANS WE'RE GETTING A CROSSOVER IN THE NEAR FUTURE? PLEASE.
There was a cameo from a certain character that also makes me think it's likely to happen, so don't be surprised when you see me pushing the crossover agenda in all my reviews of this series.
SO. SO. SO. How did I like this? A tiny bit less than Briarwitch Academy since Dawn stole my heart so it'll take Coralia a while to find her own place there. But she's cool (and has good music taste).
I already have a favourite mate, so we'll see if I can be swayed in any other direction. It's Sunny. I knew, from the minute he was introduced that he'd be my favourite. BLAME THE TENSION, IT'S SO GOOD.
Venn and Dax are okay, I don't have strong feelings about them yet. I'm kind of mad at Venn though, for not telling Coralia what he was supposed to tell her. YOU HAD ONE JOB VENN, ONE JOB.
ALSO, AM I SENSING A FOURTH MATE? I thought he was a cameo too at first, you had me fooled KC. I think he might be my second favourite? So what if we only saw him in like two scenes? The man made an impression.
Then we have Charli. I like Charli, but sometimes her way of speaking seemed like it didn't fit her character. The expressions she used would fit someone like Marlow more.
I have a theory about Charli and Brucey, I think I'm right, I'll have to wait and see.
And lastly, I wish we saw even more of the classes, BECAUSE THIS IS NOT ENOUGH!!! I need to know every detail, yes I do.
As for the ending, yes, there's a cliffhanger, but I like that a part of the main plot was resolved and we got some answers. NOW GIVE ME BOOK TWO.
4.5
*Thank you to the amazing author who provided me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honestly review*
Great opener, wouldn't you agree? If I wasn't already going to read everything KC Kingmaker writes, naming a precious little cat after the lead singer of Iron Maiden would surely convince me to start.
Coralia's story has some similarities with Dawn's (Briarwitch Academy), except poor Coralia got whisked away through shadows, while Dawn mostly agreed to go to her school.
And Briarwitch Academy is also mentioned throughout the book, as is Dawn, and to my great surprise so is Levia (Dragon Shifter Dominion). SO THAT MEANS WE'RE GETTING A CROSSOVER IN THE NEAR FUTURE? PLEASE.
There was a cameo from a certain character that also makes me think it's likely to happen, so don't be surprised when you see me pushing the crossover agenda in all my reviews of this series.
SO. SO. SO. How did I like this? A tiny bit less than Briarwitch Academy since Dawn stole my heart so it'll take Coralia a while to find her own place there. But she's cool (and has good music taste).
I already have a favourite mate, so we'll see if I can be swayed in any other direction. It's Sunny. I knew, from the minute he was introduced that he'd be my favourite. BLAME THE TENSION, IT'S SO GOOD.
Venn and Dax are okay, I don't have strong feelings about them yet. I'm kind of mad at Venn though, for not telling Coralia what he was supposed to tell her. YOU HAD ONE JOB VENN, ONE JOB.
ALSO, AM I SENSING A FOURTH MATE? I thought he was a cameo too at first, you had me fooled KC. I think he might be my second favourite? So what if we only saw him in like two scenes? The man made an impression.
Then we have Charli. I like Charli, but sometimes her way of speaking seemed like it didn't fit her character. The expressions she used would fit someone like Marlow more.
I have a theory about Charli and Brucey, I think I'm right, I'll have to wait and see.
And lastly, I wish we saw even more of the classes, BECAUSE THIS IS NOT ENOUGH!!! I need to know every detail, yes I do.
As for the ending, yes, there's a cliffhanger, but I like that a part of the main plot was resolved and we got some answers. NOW GIVE ME BOOK TWO.
4.5
*Thank you to the amazing author who provided me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honestly review*
May 7, 2022
Not for me DNF
I made it to 52% before I gave up, I just got bored even skipping didn't help. The main character has been at this academy for months on end and hasn't asked anyone about her sisters disappearance. At the start of the book she went on about how close they were, so much for caring about what happened. The POV's add nothing to the book progression just a lot of internal dialogue about what's already happened. One of my pet hates is having to re-read an already boring topic. Would have been time better spent doing something not just having their boxers in a twist.
Nail on this book was the info dumps, would have been interesting if the heroine actually started doing something, anything magical. I suppose if you are interested in the whole mean girl business this is for you, the heroine isn't exactly rainbows and sunshine either.
I made it to 52% before I gave up, I just got bored even skipping didn't help. The main character has been at this academy for months on end and hasn't asked anyone about her sisters disappearance. At the start of the book she went on about how close they were, so much for caring about what happened. The POV's add nothing to the book progression just a lot of internal dialogue about what's already happened. One of my pet hates is having to re-read an already boring topic. Would have been time better spent doing something not just having their boxers in a twist.
Nail on this book was the info dumps, would have been interesting if the heroine actually started doing something, anything magical. I suppose if you are interested in the whole mean girl business this is for you, the heroine isn't exactly rainbows and sunshine either.
June 16, 2022
spoilers I guess
I had to put it down at 27%. The amount of BS and bullying had already reached my limit and I didn’t like the first “intimate” attack encounter of one of the male leads. He may not have penetrated her in the traditional way that’s rapey but since he’s a vampire and attacked her while she was held down by a b*itch then I’d classify that as it.
I had to put it down at 27%. The amount of BS and bullying had already reached my limit and I didn’t like the first “intimate” attack encounter of one of the male leads. He may not have penetrated her in the traditional way that’s rapey but since he’s a vampire and attacked her while she was held down by a b*itch then I’d classify that as it.
Read
January 10, 2023DNF at 15%. Don’t like the FMC and the MMCs seem annoying and too mean.
January 6, 2023
51% and no more. I just can't read more. The characters are so immature. First the girls: talking about being besties and getting hurt when mentioning other friends; giving each other names like Cor Cor and calling them that all the damn time, I mean in every sentence. "How you doing Cor Cor?", "We should go to class Cor Cor", "What did he do to you Cor Cor?". Then the mean girl is just over the top in my opinion. Insta-hate on a vicious level.
The boys are all insta-love after the MC gets her ass handed to her in a fight against the mean girl. There wasn't anything super special about this fight but somehow it stands out in the boys minds and they are now besotted with her. Heaven forbid they tell her though.
Then the most confusing thing is that she's been there for weeks, showing no powers and sucking at school life in general. It's talked about that she is having private lessons with 2 of the boys but no detail is given to these as they happen "off screen" and when she talks to them "on camera", its like they're still strangers. Aren't we all supposed to be getting to know each other?
Finally, her sister is missing and she hasn't mentioned it once to anyone. She's so bogged down with trying to access her powers and feeling frisky but her sister who she apparently cares about? Nope.
The boys are all insta-love after the MC gets her ass handed to her in a fight against the mean girl. There wasn't anything super special about this fight but somehow it stands out in the boys minds and they are now besotted with her. Heaven forbid they tell her though.
Then the most confusing thing is that she's been there for weeks, showing no powers and sucking at school life in general. It's talked about that she is having private lessons with 2 of the boys but no detail is given to these as they happen "off screen" and when she talks to them "on camera", its like they're still strangers. Aren't we all supposed to be getting to know each other?
Finally, her sister is missing and she hasn't mentioned it once to anyone. She's so bogged down with trying to access her powers and feeling frisky but her sister who she apparently cares about? Nope.
March 2, 2022
DNF. Started it & couldn't get into the story.
August 6, 2022
I never thought I'd crave a school-set novel, but here I am, with a freaking chokehold on this genre.
Aside from the chaotic cast, one aspect of this reverse harem novel that I enjoyed was the magic system and the overall mystery-suspish atmosphere.
I honestly would have liked to see more of Coralia's badassery, but we didn't get much in this book, so hopefully in the sequel, which I'll be diving into after my next reverse harem read.
Aside from that, I couldn't take the names seriously; I don't know, I just find them funny, especially with Dax, Bruce, and Sunny—not to mention that I always say Cordelia instead of Coralia.
Anyway, the plot is there, and I wanted more of it because, once again, everything around here is suspicious. I don't know, I just wanted more of this, and Dawn Academy also piqued my interest, so I'll start watching that series later.
In terms of the pairings, I am not entirely convinced by the romance. Sorry, I'm just not sold on this pairing, but THAT OTHER BOI has me hooked.
Overall, I think this was good; despite a few missed here and there, I still enjoyed it and plan to jump to the second one later. 3.75 ⭐
Aside from the chaotic cast, one aspect of this reverse harem novel that I enjoyed was the magic system and the overall mystery-suspish atmosphere.
I honestly would have liked to see more of Coralia's badassery, but we didn't get much in this book, so hopefully in the sequel, which I'll be diving into after my next reverse harem read.
Aside from that, I couldn't take the names seriously; I don't know, I just find them funny, especially with Dax, Bruce, and Sunny—not to mention that I always say Cordelia instead of Coralia.
Anyway, the plot is there, and I wanted more of it because, once again, everything around here is suspicious. I don't know, I just wanted more of this, and Dawn Academy also piqued my interest, so I'll start watching that series later.
In terms of the pairings, I am not entirely convinced by the romance. Sorry, I'm just not sold on this pairing, but THAT OTHER BOI has me hooked.
Overall, I think this was good; despite a few missed here and there, I still enjoyed it and plan to jump to the second one later. 3.75 ⭐
July 24, 2022
what a way to start a series!
I wasn’t prepared… I still wanna know what happened with Marlow… I want to know where Myria is… and does Dreamwatcher still have his place? Does Coralia find Jace and help him? Is the headmaster a good guy or a bad guy? Yep, there’s a ton of questions and yet it was a beautiful start. Venn is still my favorite with Dax leading close second. I’m not sure how I feel about Sunny just yet. I love Charli! And Bruce!! And I’m diving straight into book 2!
I wasn’t prepared… I still wanna know what happened with Marlow… I want to know where Myria is… and does Dreamwatcher still have his place? Does Coralia find Jace and help him? Is the headmaster a good guy or a bad guy? Yep, there’s a ton of questions and yet it was a beautiful start. Venn is still my favorite with Dax leading close second. I’m not sure how I feel about Sunny just yet. I love Charli! And Bruce!! And I’m diving straight into book 2!
March 4, 2023
It was slow too start but it became intriguing my the end
February 13, 2022
Shadowblade Academy Isn’t my normal go to type of story. I love fantasy but I’m not Into school themed books. I would rate it at a 4.5 because it does jump around a bit for me, but by the end, I want to know more! So, I’m rounding it up to 5. Overall, I did enjoy this book and will definitely pick up the sequel. It hits that sweet spot between YA and adult. This book reminded me of School for Psychics by K.C Archer. A young woman going to a school for gifted students or abnormals, looking for her sister. While there, she discovers her own powers and grows to become her own person. She is often running headfirst into danger without thinking, but by doing so she builds camaraderie with fellow students by disobeying authority. We can’t forget the multiple love interests. This book was a quick and easy read.
I Read the ARC copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I Read the ARC copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 20, 2022
Dnf-ed. I was really drawn in by the plot of ignored child/sister comes into her own but everything about this is stupidly implausible.
Has zero training, bare bones knowledge of supernatural society and has zero idea of about any abilities she might posess but is expected to attend top-tier elite supernatural assassin school? Repeated stated that school and people are the good guys, literally every action from her abduction to a SA-ish, non-consenting blood feed, shows that they are not in fact good.
Sister is missing, presumed dead by atleast one character and yet somehow super, secret and hidden academy told her human parents? Like the Professor made it sound like death was not uncommon on campus so why risk the 'secret' with a call home, especially when her status isn't determined and she is 21 or older?
Headmaster is telling one character to befriend FMC, yet they room her with mean girl who made it clear she didn't want a roomate?
Seems to me she'd be better off with the bad guys they're allegedly trying to keep her from.
The worldbuilding sucks. I really hate to say that so bluntly, but it is my gut impression. I know reading is subjective and that authors work hard but for me as a reader there is nothing worse than coming into some complex world and not given any sort of cohesive framework by the author. We went from modern day human NOLA, to the Academy without pause, and everything at the academy is treated as though the reader has some basic understanding of it all and we don't.
Glove, wrist, knuckles I get the idea is 'hand' of action, but then there are ghosts/phantoms ranking and presumably more? What is the purpose of the academy anyway? Supernaturals are apparently prized, its a plot point, and while their is a slur against them, we readers haven't been shown anything to make us think there is some big, overarcing war or conflict between humans and supes.
Apparently this is a spin-off or companion series but I had no idea about that until I saw other reviews and maybe that helps fill in some blanks but if I as a new reader can't come in blind, it should be sold along with the main story and not a stand alone.
As for the FMC, I actually like her. Its fun and refreshing to have a FMC in a RH that is prickly, awkward and far from saintly perfection. She acknowledges she has issues, feels bad when she acts out even if she can't/won't stop herself from doing so in the first place.
Which is why I'm bummed everything else is just not working for me, including the MMC's.
Has zero training, bare bones knowledge of supernatural society and has zero idea of about any abilities she might posess but is expected to attend top-tier elite supernatural assassin school? Repeated stated that school and people are the good guys, literally every action from her abduction to a SA-ish, non-consenting blood feed, shows that they are not in fact good.
Sister is missing, presumed dead by atleast one character and yet somehow super, secret and hidden academy told her human parents? Like the Professor made it sound like death was not uncommon on campus so why risk the 'secret' with a call home, especially when her status isn't determined and she is 21 or older?
Headmaster is telling one character to befriend FMC, yet they room her with mean girl who made it clear she didn't want a roomate?
Seems to me she'd be better off with the bad guys they're allegedly trying to keep her from.
The worldbuilding sucks. I really hate to say that so bluntly, but it is my gut impression. I know reading is subjective and that authors work hard but for me as a reader there is nothing worse than coming into some complex world and not given any sort of cohesive framework by the author. We went from modern day human NOLA, to the Academy without pause, and everything at the academy is treated as though the reader has some basic understanding of it all and we don't.
Glove, wrist, knuckles I get the idea is 'hand' of action, but then there are ghosts/phantoms ranking and presumably more? What is the purpose of the academy anyway? Supernaturals are apparently prized, its a plot point, and while their is a slur against them, we readers haven't been shown anything to make us think there is some big, overarcing war or conflict between humans and supes.
Apparently this is a spin-off or companion series but I had no idea about that until I saw other reviews and maybe that helps fill in some blanks but if I as a new reader can't come in blind, it should be sold along with the main story and not a stand alone.
As for the FMC, I actually like her. Its fun and refreshing to have a FMC in a RH that is prickly, awkward and far from saintly perfection. She acknowledges she has issues, feels bad when she acts out even if she can't/won't stop herself from doing so in the first place.
Which is why I'm bummed everything else is just not working for me, including the MMC's.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
June 10, 2022I just can't
Picked this up because I read Briarwitch Academy and really enjoyed it.
I only made it to about 20% and even that was a struggle. FMC was just so unlikable to me that I couldn't stand to read any more. Plus throwing in a few assaults on the FMC with zero repercussions for the guys was supremely annoying, especially when the FMC blamed herself for getting into the situation.
Typically I don't mind young or young-ish main characters, but with this FMC being 21 I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the petulant tantrum throwing that occurs in the first part of the book.
I won't star rate since I DNF
Picked this up because I read Briarwitch Academy and really enjoyed it.
I only made it to about 20% and even that was a struggle. FMC was just so unlikable to me that I couldn't stand to read any more. Plus throwing in a few assaults on the FMC with zero repercussions for the guys was supremely annoying, especially when the FMC blamed herself for getting into the situation.
Typically I don't mind young or young-ish main characters, but with this FMC being 21 I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the petulant tantrum throwing that occurs in the first part of the book.
I won't star rate since I DNF
April 1, 2022
I love when worlds are expanded and added to with new characters and old ones popping in to help link the stories together in some way. This book does a great job of doing just that while establishing a new venue filled with intrigue along the way! Briarwitch Academy feeds students into the Shadowblade Academy where students expand their abilities in the areas of defense and offense to protect the magical world from enemies. The MC here believes she is a magical dud as her sister came into magical powers around her 18th birthday as most people tend to do in their world. Her mother pretty much ignored her for that reason until she showed up on her 21st birthday to tell her that her sister had gone missing. Later that evening while celebrating her birthday with her roommate, something she can't explain happens. Recruiters for Shadowblade steal her away to their school that same night and let her know that her magical signature awakened and she is to attend their school. Not being a fan of being kidnapped, her immediate desire to leave the academy dwindles as she realizes it is the best way to try to find her sister and the story truly begins. This is a slow burn RH with less action than I know we'll see in the future, but the build up is fantastic. KC Kingmaker takes the time to build a deep, rich world involving many different characters who bring their own past experiences that have shaped them into who they are adds a great deal of interest to the story and helps you learn more about everything that is happening in the process. This book is so good, the hook at the end leaves you thirsty for more! Enjoy!
February 28, 2022
I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review
I really enjoyed this start to a brand new series by KC Kingmaker!! I’ve loved all of her books, so far, so I was extremely excited for this series!! Firstly, let me just mention that this book’s cover is gorgeous and badass 😍 Our FMC, Coralia, is a total badass, too 🖤 My prediction is she is definitely going to be the strongest supernatural by the series end!!
Coralia has definitely been through a lot in her life. Always living in her sister’s shadow, feeling less, because her sister has powers and goes to the prestigious ShadowBlade Academy. On her 21st birthday, Coralia’s mother comes to tell her that her sister is missing. There’s nothing else for Coralia to do other than to go to ShadowBlade Academy to try to find her. She’s got to be careful though, because this school is full of dangerous and powerful magical beings, and Coralia is just a normal human…..Or is she??……
Coralia also has to watch her back against other students who don’t want her in their school….Namely hot supernaturals Venn, Sunny and Dex 🖤
I can’t wait for Book 2!!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙🖤
I really enjoyed this start to a brand new series by KC Kingmaker!! I’ve loved all of her books, so far, so I was extremely excited for this series!! Firstly, let me just mention that this book’s cover is gorgeous and badass 😍 Our FMC, Coralia, is a total badass, too 🖤 My prediction is she is definitely going to be the strongest supernatural by the series end!!
Coralia has definitely been through a lot in her life. Always living in her sister’s shadow, feeling less, because her sister has powers and goes to the prestigious ShadowBlade Academy. On her 21st birthday, Coralia’s mother comes to tell her that her sister is missing. There’s nothing else for Coralia to do other than to go to ShadowBlade Academy to try to find her. She’s got to be careful though, because this school is full of dangerous and powerful magical beings, and Coralia is just a normal human…..Or is she??……
Coralia also has to watch her back against other students who don’t want her in their school….Namely hot supernaturals Venn, Sunny and Dex 🖤
I can’t wait for Book 2!!!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙🖤
March 9, 2023
Spoilers Probably
Thoughts:
So I saw the blurb for this book and I decided to read it.it's okay but there's a big disconnect in the book. It's also extremely slow and kind of boring I got to about 40% in the book and you don't really learn anything other than her sister is missing and she's probably alive and jump ship to the other team.
At this point I decided to go check out more of a comments and the blurbs for the rest of the books because there are 5 books unless serious.i noticed that they're a lot less reviews on the other books than the first one so that was my first red flag.then as I read the blurbs I realized The story doesn't really get any better and reviews get worse so I decided to dnf.
I Also thought the whole basis of the story Didn't make sense.f m c did not get along with her family including her sister and she just gonna like go along with trying to find her it's me makes sense. Granted she was kidnapped in the end but still. I also didn't understand the not asking questions about what was going on because if her sister is at risk or dying or dead or whatnot the first thing you would be doing is asking questions it's not Pretending at an academy.
Thoughts:
So I saw the blurb for this book and I decided to read it.it's okay but there's a big disconnect in the book. It's also extremely slow and kind of boring I got to about 40% in the book and you don't really learn anything other than her sister is missing and she's probably alive and jump ship to the other team.
At this point I decided to go check out more of a comments and the blurbs for the rest of the books because there are 5 books unless serious.i noticed that they're a lot less reviews on the other books than the first one so that was my first red flag.then as I read the blurbs I realized The story doesn't really get any better and reviews get worse so I decided to dnf.
I Also thought the whole basis of the story Didn't make sense.f m c did not get along with her family including her sister and she just gonna like go along with trying to find her it's me makes sense. Granted she was kidnapped in the end but still. I also didn't understand the not asking questions about what was going on because if her sister is at risk or dying or dead or whatnot the first thing you would be doing is asking questions it's not Pretending at an academy.
July 22, 2022
Interesting spin-off
Shadowblade Academy is a loose spin-off of Briarwitch Academy. The story is compelling and the characters are decent, but not fully fleshed out. I’m guessing that will change as the series progresses as will the lack of solid world building.
Coralia’s sister Myria came into her magical powers at 18. Coralia did not. Just after Coralia’s 21st birthday she learns that her sister is missing and that her own powers have now awoken. She gets taken to Shadowblade Academy where she meets Venn, Sunny, and Dax.
The story focuses mainly on Coralia learning to use her new powers. Her relationships with her guys and the search for her sister are much more in the background, which makes her encounter with Venn all the more strange and intriguing. I’m hoping as the series progresses I’ll have a better grasp of the connections she has with Venn and ostensibly with the rest of her men.
Overall it’s a good start to the series.
Shadowblade Academy is a loose spin-off of Briarwitch Academy. The story is compelling and the characters are decent, but not fully fleshed out. I’m guessing that will change as the series progresses as will the lack of solid world building.
Coralia’s sister Myria came into her magical powers at 18. Coralia did not. Just after Coralia’s 21st birthday she learns that her sister is missing and that her own powers have now awoken. She gets taken to Shadowblade Academy where she meets Venn, Sunny, and Dax.
The story focuses mainly on Coralia learning to use her new powers. Her relationships with her guys and the search for her sister are much more in the background, which makes her encounter with Venn all the more strange and intriguing. I’m hoping as the series progresses I’ll have a better grasp of the connections she has with Venn and ostensibly with the rest of her men.
Overall it’s a good start to the series.
March 22, 2023
a start…
It’s an interesting start to a series. At first it starts slow, then picks up speed. We have insta love but honestly it is barely there, mostly mentioned as a side note. Mainly the main character, Coralia, having random hey, he’s hot thoughts but no real physical follow through, especially when she would comment about how she would hope they wouldn’t be distracted by her body during a life and death mission…
We also have a point where the headmaster was all hey, this happened but don’t worry, no one will be in trouble for it but then at the end he loses it and goes against his word.
Some parts were pretty predictable. Some reactions a bit over the top.
Will book two be better? No clue
It’s an interesting start to a series. At first it starts slow, then picks up speed. We have insta love but honestly it is barely there, mostly mentioned as a side note. Mainly the main character, Coralia, having random hey, he’s hot thoughts but no real physical follow through, especially when she would comment about how she would hope they wouldn’t be distracted by her body during a life and death mission…
We also have a point where the headmaster was all hey, this happened but don’t worry, no one will be in trouble for it but then at the end he loses it and goes against his word.
Some parts were pretty predictable. Some reactions a bit over the top.
Will book two be better? No clue
July 22, 2022
DNF, not for me. I just got bored. I was promised another badass heroine, but FMC just gets her ass beat by everyone.
Yes she is snarky, but snarky girls get beat on even more if they can’t back it up.
The prospective harem bullies the FMC and I’m not about that. One of the guys physically manhandles and attacks the FMC…
One of the H’s has graphic and depicted sex with another girl in this book.
Also, nothing happens in this book except FMC failing at everything. No one is making any progress on finding Myria, no one is even attempting to search for her. There is no plot or storyline movement, just day to day academy bullshit.
Yes she is snarky, but snarky girls get beat on even more if they can’t back it up.
The prospective harem bullies the FMC and I’m not about that. One of the guys physically manhandles and attacks the FMC…
One of the H’s has graphic and depicted sex with another girl in this book.
Also, nothing happens in this book except FMC failing at everything. No one is making any progress on finding Myria, no one is even attempting to search for her. There is no plot or storyline movement, just day to day academy bullshit.
January 4, 2023
Amazing
This was such an amazing book, I'm so mad at myself for not reading it sooner. I got this during the pre-order, and it's been sitting in my Kindle ever since.
This follows an ordinary human girl, or at least she thinks she's ordinary, as she jorneys to a new place. Her sister is lost, and she believes she can be the one to find her. What she doesn't expect is to find other things along the way, friends, enemies, and potential lovers. The ending was quite the thrilling end and left me wanting so much more.
Will Coralia find her sister, I guess you'll have to read to find out.
Highly recommend this book.
This was such an amazing book, I'm so mad at myself for not reading it sooner. I got this during the pre-order, and it's been sitting in my Kindle ever since.
This follows an ordinary human girl, or at least she thinks she's ordinary, as she jorneys to a new place. Her sister is lost, and she believes she can be the one to find her. What she doesn't expect is to find other things along the way, friends, enemies, and potential lovers. The ending was quite the thrilling end and left me wanting so much more.
Will Coralia find her sister, I guess you'll have to read to find out.
Highly recommend this book.
February 13, 2022
An excellent beginning!
This book rocks! The first in what promises to be a fantastic series, we get to travel to Shadowblade Academy to meet Venn, Sunny, Dex and Coralia. She is looking for her sister and it will be one wild journey for her and the three men. There is danger, secrets are being kept and we even get to see an old friend from Briarwitch Academy. It is a thrilling journey they are on and I can’t wait to read what comes next!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book rocks! The first in what promises to be a fantastic series, we get to travel to Shadowblade Academy to meet Venn, Sunny, Dex and Coralia. She is looking for her sister and it will be one wild journey for her and the three men. There is danger, secrets are being kept and we even get to see an old friend from Briarwitch Academy. It is a thrilling journey they are on and I can’t wait to read what comes next!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
March 1, 2022
wow - a surprize great pick
After multiple wring choice this is my second in tow to pick up such a great book. Good basis of the story, intriguing storyline, adventurous, never boring, nice the romance line (I mean the romance not S’s hookups, still its okey to read) great characters and no multicharacter heroine but a smarmy smartmouth with powers (no whinny, ups and downs etc. but good as is). Already preordered book 2 ;) so catchup in April!!!
After multiple wring choice this is my second in tow to pick up such a great book. Good basis of the story, intriguing storyline, adventurous, never boring, nice the romance line (I mean the romance not S’s hookups, still its okey to read) great characters and no multicharacter heroine but a smarmy smartmouth with powers (no whinny, ups and downs etc. but good as is). Already preordered book 2 ;) so catchup in April!!!
Shelved as 'dnf'
April 8, 2022I just can't continue. Which is too bad. I liked the writing, might have enjoyed the story, but I cannot get beyond her being accosted and then kidnapped and being, "oh, ok, I'll go to school here, and my kidnappers are dreamy and smell good"
Arg, I can suspend my reality for vampires and fae, but please, a girl being kidnapped should be terrorized. I wish the author had come up with a better way to get her into the school.
Arg, I can suspend my reality for vampires and fae, but please, a girl being kidnapped should be terrorized. I wish the author had come up with a better way to get her into the school.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2022
😻
Ok, first there was just so many emotions. I kinda rolled my eyes a bit at first. The whole Daddy kink thing just a bit annoying. At times I almost gave up. But I read on. Glad I did! This book actually came together a lot better. Btw Sunny is still not on my good list. A bit to full of himself! Also I now feel bad for a certain mean girl! Im still curious if Alaric is evil or not… so much to uncover. Im def starting book two soon!
Ok, first there was just so many emotions. I kinda rolled my eyes a bit at first. The whole Daddy kink thing just a bit annoying. At times I almost gave up. But I read on. Glad I did! This book actually came together a lot better. Btw Sunny is still not on my good list. A bit to full of himself! Also I now feel bad for a certain mean girl! Im still curious if Alaric is evil or not… so much to uncover. Im def starting book two soon!
February 21, 2022
There were aspects of the book (specifically some language used) that seemed put of place within the writing, such as the use of badonkadonk and regular-schmegular. Honestly that made me cringe as it was just unnecessary and pretty much out of character. However overall I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one!
March 19, 2022
If I could 3.5 I would but I’d rather do a 4. I don’t leave reviews to often butttt the book was pretty decent. It was very unique and I saw the potential. I’m not a fan of reverse harem and I know this might turn into that. I do wish the details of the abilities and growth was a little different but overall a pretty good read.
September 17, 2022
GREAT BEGINNING
This is an interesting beginning for a young adult mystery. The series starts with a human who was believed to be a dud by her parents. They made her life miserable not being able to magic. Yet, as we see during the series she was just a late bloomer when it came to her gift.
This is an interesting beginning for a young adult mystery. The series starts with a human who was believed to be a dud by her parents. They made her life miserable not being able to magic. Yet, as we see during the series she was just a late bloomer when it came to her gift.
March 5, 2023
That was different.
This was the first book I've read by this author. I'm not sure why but it felt different than the other academy books I've read. I really liked her spunk, attitude, and her caring heart. She did not have an easy upbringing but she was still compassionate. The spice was fun. I'm thinking there will be even more in the next one. On to book 2!!
This was the first book I've read by this author. I'm not sure why but it felt different than the other academy books I've read. I really liked her spunk, attitude, and her caring heart. She did not have an easy upbringing but she was still compassionate. The spice was fun. I'm thinking there will be even more in the next one. On to book 2!!
March 15, 2022
Great read.
I found this book a little slow to start with but I stuck with it,and I'm glad I did. The pace picked up along with the story and got me hooked! Looking forward to the next one.
I found this book a little slow to start with but I stuck with it,and I'm glad I did. The pace picked up along with the story and got me hooked! Looking forward to the next one.
May 3, 2022
Dark Magic
Great story, great characters, fun, and dark. What more could you ask for? Adult situations and language. It kept me enthralled from start to finish. I can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
Great story, great characters, fun, and dark. What more could you ask for? Adult situations and language. It kept me enthralled from start to finish. I can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
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