Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Thornwood Academy is everything I could never wish for and less.

In the short time since father dearest dumped me here, I've collected a couple of murder accusations, a deadly witch bond with one guy, and a thirst for the blood of another. Good grief. What next?

I'm neck-deep in investigations to clear my name, and as I peel away each layer of facade from town and academy life I discover more shady connections between supes and humans.

The local business mogul and his vampire attorney. The mysterious talismans bestowed on the sons of influential families. Shifters with a vendetta against almost everyone. It's the murder-mystery gift that keeps on giving.

This witch bond with Rowan? Disaster. Our lives and magic are forever linked, and the bond unleashed something terrifying. Not only the psychopathic hybrid I’ve suppressed, but something infinitely worse—my mother's gentler half. Emotions. Empathy. Occasional kind gestures. A nightmare.

Then there’s the small issue with Grayson. Following one unintentional bite of his hand, I’m craving the blood of a vampire who's fixated on tasting mine. And Leif? I’m not-so-eagerly waiting to see what twist of fate might bring me closer to him too as I help him with his shifter problem.

Which is all distracting me from what’s important. Death. One more murder and the town officially has a serial killer. I’ve an inkling who’s pulling the strings, and another killing would be disastrous for me and the stability of the supernatural world. And I suppose the third murder wouldn't be the best outcome for the victim either.

As Thornwood Academy's own dark and deadly detective, I need to crack this case before Dorian’s council crumbles and a war begins. Then I can solve the problem created by my new and confusing relationships with the guys. If they survive long enough.

Dead to Me is the second book in Thornwood Academy, a new supernatural academy series from LJ Swallow, author of the bestselling Nightworld Academy books.
The series features a smart, sarcastic girl who’s not afraid to use her dark side to solve a murder or two, a school where humans mix with vampires and witches, a town with supernatural secrets, and the three guys who she'd like to keep alive.
Thornwood Academy is a slow-burn romance… almost as glacial as our unhinged heroine. Book One must be read first.

234 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 6, 2023

682 people are currently reading
201 people want to read

About the author

L.J. Swallow

114 books745 followers
LJ Swallow is a paranormal romance and urban fantasy author who is the alter-ego of bestselling contemporary romance author Lisa Swallow.

Giving in to her dark side, LJ spends time creating worlds filled with supernatural creatures who don’t fit the norm, and heroines who are more likely to kick ass than sit on theirs.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
313 (46%)
4 stars
216 (32%)
3 stars
120 (17%)
2 stars
24 (3%)
1 star
2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Hannah Brooker.
767 reviews2 followers
July 15, 2023
It's a DNF

For me it's a DNF. I tried so hard to get into this book but the writing style, the flow was stifled, the storyline did not flow and I was so bored. It's a shame because it has potential it's just too much hard work to understand and way to frustrating because you aren't given guys or clues as to who the real culprit might be. Too much wrong with it, I tried and got to 50% but it took a good few days to get there.
Profile Image for Rebecca Norvitz Norvitz .
715 reviews22 followers
May 24, 2023
I need book 3

Omg I need the next book. I’ve been making my way through this authors backlist and I had to stop to read this book. This is the series that hooked me on this author. I can’t wait for the next book and to what happens with Violet and her guys.
Profile Image for Allison Ripley-Duggan.
1,807 reviews13 followers
March 18, 2024
I loved it!

It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. Welcome to Thornwood Academy. This book is part of the Nightworld Academy world. This book series is a slow-burn paranormal romance, almost as glacial as our heroine for it features a girl who isn't afraid to use her dark side, a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches, and three guys with secrets in a town filled with murder and mystery. This is the story of Eloise and Dorian Blackwood’s child Mia who is now called Violet. She is a half-vampire, half-witch, smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged with a fondness for necromancy. Set many years after the events of the Nightworld Academy and the Ravenhold Academy series. This Academy is everything she could never wish for and less.In the short time since her father dumped her there, she’s collected a couple of murder accusations, a deadly witch bond with one guy, and a thirst for the blood of another. Good grief, what’s next? She’s neck-deep in investigations to clear her name, and as she peels away each layer of facade from town and academy life she discovers more shady connections between supes and humans. The local business mogul and his vampire attorney, the mysterious talismans bestowed on the sons of influential families, and shifters with a vendetta against almost everyone, stuff that makes this the murder-mystery gift that keeps on giving. The witch bond she has with Rowan is a disaster for lives and magic are forever linked, and the bond unleashed something terrifying, not only the psychopathic hybrid she’s suppressed, but something infinitely worse, her mother's gentler half pertaining to emotions, empathy, occasional kind gestures and a nightmare. Then there’s the small issue with Grayson, following one unintentional bite of his hand, she’s craving the blood of a vampire who's fixated on tasting her’s. Then there’s Leif who she’s not so eagerly waiting to see what twist of fate might bring her closer to him too as she helps him with his shifter problem. All this is distracting her from what’s important, another death. All it would take is one more murder and the town would officially have a serial killer. She has an inkling who’s pulling the strings, and another killing would be disastrous for her, the stability of the supernatural world, and she supposes the third murder wouldn't be the best outcome for the victim either. As the academy's own dark and deadly detective, she needs to crack this case before Dorian’s council crumbles and a war begins. Then she can solve the problem created by her new and confusing relationships with the guys, if they survive long enough. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend to everyone.
Profile Image for Denise.
3,734 reviews
April 3, 2023
Violet is still determined to figure out who really murdered Wesley and then Rory. She, of course, is the favorite suspect, but she is sure there is a lot more involved then just these murders. The more she investigates, the surer she is that there is a much larger conspiracy in play. Someone is stirring up the witch, shifter, human prejudices for their own reasons.

Meanwhile, there is her other problem. Boys. She now has a witch bond with one, a blood thirst for another, and a third whose thoughts are all about her. Of course, she has not gotten much better at navigating this world of "feelings" and still manages to always say the wrong thing without even knowing what that was. Her three "admirers" have gotten a little less prone to taking offense as they try to aid her by rewording on her behalf. Whatever. She is more worried about these new connections eroding her control over her monstrous side. Also, the constant interference in her investigation is annoying. You are not going to believe what happens at the end of this one. At least it answers one question Violet has always had about her genetic makeup...

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
588 reviews
June 21, 2025
This second book in the series has been steadily progressing both Violet’s character development and the plot. The investigation is both progressing and getting more complicated. We’ve got reanimated shifters killing others and framing Violet for it. She’s really struggling with her attraction to Greyson and really doesn’t seem to see that it’s not just his blood that she wants. The same with Rowan and the bond that they accidentally triggered. Leif still doesn’t feel quite as linked to her yet. I feel bad for at least Leif and Greyson’s backgrounds. Both sound pretty brutal. Rowan definitely has more privilege but doesn’t seem happy either. How they tolerate Violet I don’t know because it isn’t that she’s unpleasant. It’s that she’s hurtful and also oblivious about how her words affect others. I would be shocked if each of the guys don’t walk away at some point at least for a period of time. Rowan might hang in because of the bond but the other two aren’t irrevocably connected yet.
432 reviews7 followers
April 6, 2023
I loved this second book of this series!!!! Violet is changing, learning, and adapting, but still her blunt self. She’s honest and harsh, but she’s also extremely intelligent and funny in a quirky way. She’s also realizing she can’t resist Rowan, Grayson, and even Leif anymore. She doesn’t like it, but she knows what’s coming, too, even if she’s in denial a little bit. I loved Grayson, Rowan, and Leif’s character development in this book, too. They’re all hopelessly obsessed with Violet, and all have questionable pasts to deal with. They fit her perfectly. I can’t wait for the next book! I can’t wait to see how Dorian, Eloise, Ethan, and Zeke all help Violet, Rowan, Grayson, and Leif bring down the bad guys again! I’m also wondering who the snitch or spy is that’s watching Violet and her guys. So interesting!!! So excited for the next book! Love this book and world and characters!
Profile Image for Mrs T.
385 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2023
Violet is back and this time not only is she trying to solve 2 murders (for which she is the main suspect), she is also having to come to terms with the witch bond to Rowan, her blood lust for Grayson, her growing attraction to Leif and of course the replacement of a certain persons toe !

She is so determined and focused and so unintentionally funny. Yet vulnerable in her budding relationships.

This second book really starts to delve into the past of Violet's boys and how that has shaped how they all are now. There is no doubt of their feelings for Violet although she is hesitant about letting her guard down.

There is more magic, danger, partying, violence, threats and suspense in this book. The ending was to die for! I seriously can't wait for book 3.
Profile Image for Kristen Dalrymple.
664 reviews5 followers
April 9, 2023
So we finally get some answers. We know about Rowan and his powers. We know why Leif is afraid and hides. We know what has been happening between Grayson and his uncle. We also know that a witch named Maxwell was using shifters that he killed and reanimated as his killers. Rory killed Wes, but he was supposed to kill Kai so the witch and his other shifter killed Rory. But why does he want to kill Kai? And why is the witch supposedly working with Kai’s dad. Violet thinks it has something to do with the dominion after unlocking Leif’s lost memories. When Violet died, Grayson killed Maxwell. All that happened because they were protecting Kai. Again why is Kai so important? I still have so many questions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Moni.
162 reviews
March 30, 2024
Im zweiten Band Tödliche Magie geht Violet's Abenteuer auf der Thornwood Academy weiter. Obwohl sie selbst um Mittelpunkt der Mordermittlungen steht, lässt sie sich durch nichts und niemanden aufhalten den wahren Mörder zu finden. Rowan, Leif und Grayson helfen ihr, aufhalten kann sie eh keiner, wenn sie sich etwas in den Kopf gesetzt hat. Durch Holly und den drei Jungs bröckelt beginnt ihre kalte Fassade so langsam zu bröckeln...
Ich habe mich schon länger darauf gefreut Violet's Geschichte weiterzulesen und wurde nicht enttäuscht!
Warum du Band 2 Tödliche Magie lesen solltest:
⭐ Du kennst Band 1 bereits
⭐ Vampire, Gestaltwandler, Hexen, Hybride
⭐ tolle Hauptpersonen
⭐ Spannung
⭐ Sarkasmus
⭐Band 3 erscheint am 23. April
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
6,228 reviews40 followers
May 18, 2023
The second book in the series finds some people after Grayson. a potion missing form Violet's room and someone dies. Rowan wants to become more powerful, there's problems with Holly (her roommate), an old evil group may be raising their ugly heads and something happens to Violet.

There's a lot going on in this book. Violet is changing in her outlook on things and there's major question about whether or not one or more of the main characters are going to die.

I liked the book and look forward to the next one in the series.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,259 reviews2 followers
May 14, 2024
I am completely furious. At the book? No, it's fine. Nothing bad....it's moving along. Finally starting to garner some interest now that all three guys are in the thick of things. Also, Violet is starting to get just a shade more tolerable.

So, why am I mad, you ask? I had "Dead to me" on my TBR list. I went to get it and realized it was book 2 in a series, so I dutifully read book 1, then got this one, read it, went to review it and realized....WRONG BOOK! Urg.

I'm off to get the 3rd, so I can finish this series and read the one I meant to in the first place.
Profile Image for Lexi.
42 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2023
Less Wednesday vibes this time around except a line about how her favourite shirt is black and white striped because LOL.

I am very annoyed that Violet reads aroace but since this is RH, she's totally gonna enjoy sex even though all signs point to no.

I just... hate everyone. And the murder plot is just a rehash of a plot used in Nightworld Academy. Which I didn't like the first time around.
Profile Image for Teresa.
1,120 reviews6 followers
April 28, 2024
Hybrid

Born half witch/ half vampire, Violet has learned to control her emotions. Highly emotional situations had proven that her control was lacking. So, she tucks her emotions away, locked up tight. Until she attends Thornwood Academy and must interact with the other students, witches, vamps, and humans. When students start being murdered, Violet's interest is piqued, especially as she is practically accused of murder!
Profile Image for Kristan.
108 reviews
October 17, 2025
Unfortunately, this will be the last book I read from this series. The story and writing were so boring, I had to force myself to read. Life is too short to read books that don't make you stay up all night reading because you just HAVE to find out what happens next. I'm disappointed, as I thought the character of Violet was unique and the story had promise. There are many ways a storyteller can draw in readers and keep them hooked; sadly, this writer did not use any of them.
Profile Image for Kira.
1,119 reviews34 followers
April 16, 2023
👏🏻

Woo, as always, L.j. swallow doesn't disappoint!!!! Violet is now my new favorite of hers! And Mauve is definitely number two! Ohhh this story held me hostage and didn't quite let me go even with that cliffhanger!!! I can't wait to see how this all unfolds !!!! 5 stars easy!!! I love these guys!!
488 reviews1 follower
April 20, 2023
I got a bit bored reading this

I enjoyed the first book for its Wednesday-ness but that same thing means that I just look at the guys as getting in her way rather than being good for her the same way I did when I was watching Wednesday. It’s not really going anywhere and the characters keep making stupid decisions.
Profile Image for Anaïsu Anaïsu.
176 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2023
Absolutely brilliant. I love Violet and her "assistants" 🤣 I'm very invested in these characters and their journey. I forgot how funny this series is, mostly because of Violet's deadpan delivery. I really enjoyed the new dynamics, I like all of them working together. I can't get enough of this group and I can't wait to know more... Grayson though.
Profile Image for Leanne F.
1,055 reviews2 followers
Read
January 30, 2024
wow

Okay so things get way more complicated and Violet starts ‘feeling’ which is beginning to mess with her head. Throw in her connections to Rowan, Leif and Grayson and poor little Violet’s world is beginning to spin. Interesting final chapter makes everything a little more complicated. 4.5 stars. Highly recommend.
7 reviews
November 14, 2024
Has become its own storyline

Love the characters and growth of the FMC. The multiple point of views help add depth to her bonds that are forming. The plot line feels a little hectic but they are in the middle of trying figure out the cause of several murders which can feel chaotic.

It no longer reminds me of “Wednesday”
1,869 reviews8 followers
April 6, 2023
I love how Violet is coming to terms with herself in this book. She is still her snarky self but is starting to let others in. There is more discovered in this book and more yet to come. I can't wait for more.
417 reviews
April 7, 2023
Slow burn

I loved this book and couldn't put it down. Violet is such a funny character even though she tries not be and the interaction between the guys starts to heat up, can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Connie Hawley.
16 reviews2 followers
April 8, 2023
amazing, she did it again

lJ did it again!!! This book is so good. Great building the relationships. I think we start it really see everyone and see what the want as a future.
Enjoyed this a lot. You need to read book one.
Profile Image for Prismseven.
450 reviews13 followers
April 8, 2023
Thornwood Academy 2

I absolutely love this world. I truly hope the author changes their mind and builds onto this storyline. One more book is not enough. This series has the potential to be a longer series similar to Nancy Drew with a paranormal cast.
Profile Image for Melissa Hickman.
1,043 reviews14 followers
April 16, 2023
Fantastic series!!!

I’m really enjoying this world and all the characters in it!!!! Violate is such an interesting FMC and I love how each guy is putting in so much effort to understand her. I can’t wait to read the next book!!
Profile Image for Dreadyjen.
141 reviews
August 19, 2023
Dnf. Extremely slow burn. And kind of boring. Just wasn't for me. Its basically Wednesday Adams... But..without any of the fun Adams hijinks just emo asexual goth girl playing sherlock in a harem she isn't aware she is in.
845 reviews1 follower
November 26, 2023
Love Violet

Violet is a character unlike most. she is not a people person, she is blunt and honest to a fault. She is still trying to solve the mystery of two murders but mostly because it's a puzzle she can answer and partly because someone us trying to frame her.
Profile Image for Dreama .
318 reviews7 followers
December 30, 2023
Great book

The mystery twists and turns and more questions are raised than answered. Violet is trying to figure out who is doing the killing and why all while trying to understand these new feelings she has for the witch , the vampire and the shifter.
Profile Image for Kathy Zuercher Diveley.
1,609 reviews11 followers
December 31, 2023
Violet

Conspiracy abounds when Violet and Grayson are accused of stealing by Kai's Dad the day after Kia's party. Rowan, Lief, Grayson and Violet figure out some of the key players in the recent murders. Then they attempt to prevent another murder.
Profile Image for Kaitlin.
93 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2025
How many times in one book can every character blow air into their cheeks? Wish there wasn’t a weird love triangle trying to happen. Why can’t a gal just be strong and independent and when she says no that’s enough.
257 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2025
Didn’t have quite the same wow factor

So this is book 2, and whilst enjoyable it wasn’t a book I was desperate to finish like book 1.
I get that this is a series but I feel like there has been no answers and I’m finding that frustrating.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.