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Thornwood Academy #3
For Dear Life
I expected the guys to assist me in solving the Thornwood Academy murders, not add a new victim to the body count.
Following events at the lodge and my unfortunate encounter with the fence post, I've no choice but to turn to my father for help. Of course, my blood-covered entourage of guys don't exactly receive a warm welcome, but at least Grayson walks away in one piece.
With suspects galore, I can't stay on the edge if I want to find the truth, so I'm forced to insert myself further into the Thornwood Academy social scene. But even a seemingly harmless date in town turns into chaos, wild accusations, and a trip to the hospital. As if that's not enough, I stumble on my roommate's secret, which leads to painful compromises.
The closer I grow to Rowan, Grayson, and Leif, the more our lives entangle. After spending my life avoiding a world I don't understand, I'm grappling with unhelpful feelings for my bonded witch and his powerful magic, the vampire whose blood entices me, and the half-shifter who gifts me strange things. Not to mention attempting to control my dark and deadly side, which presents its own problems.
I can't decide what's more challenging—clearing my name of murder charges or understanding this strange new version of myself emerging. And I don't mean the throat-ripping one.
With two dead and at least one undead, time's running out before the killers' next target dies. My enemies might play their strongest hand when I'm least expecting, but they won't beat a Blackwood. At the end of the day, I'll wear the crown.
Mystery, secrets, and betrayals abound as I navigate a world filled with danger and shadows while trying to keep those I care about safe. Who knew Thornwood Academy would offer me so much more than my dark heart could ever hope for?
For Dear Life is the third book in a new YA supernatural academy series from LJ Swallow. The Thornwood Academy series is a murder mystery set at a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches. This slow burn paranormal romance features a girl who's smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged, plus the three guys she'd like to keep alive.
Books 1 and 2 must be read first.
Following events at the lodge and my unfortunate encounter with the fence post, I've no choice but to turn to my father for help. Of course, my blood-covered entourage of guys don't exactly receive a warm welcome, but at least Grayson walks away in one piece.
With suspects galore, I can't stay on the edge if I want to find the truth, so I'm forced to insert myself further into the Thornwood Academy social scene. But even a seemingly harmless date in town turns into chaos, wild accusations, and a trip to the hospital. As if that's not enough, I stumble on my roommate's secret, which leads to painful compromises.
The closer I grow to Rowan, Grayson, and Leif, the more our lives entangle. After spending my life avoiding a world I don't understand, I'm grappling with unhelpful feelings for my bonded witch and his powerful magic, the vampire whose blood entices me, and the half-shifter who gifts me strange things. Not to mention attempting to control my dark and deadly side, which presents its own problems.
I can't decide what's more challenging—clearing my name of murder charges or understanding this strange new version of myself emerging. And I don't mean the throat-ripping one.
With two dead and at least one undead, time's running out before the killers' next target dies. My enemies might play their strongest hand when I'm least expecting, but they won't beat a Blackwood. At the end of the day, I'll wear the crown.
Mystery, secrets, and betrayals abound as I navigate a world filled with danger and shadows while trying to keep those I care about safe. Who knew Thornwood Academy would offer me so much more than my dark heart could ever hope for?
For Dear Life is the third book in a new YA supernatural academy series from LJ Swallow. The Thornwood Academy series is a murder mystery set at a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches. This slow burn paranormal romance features a girl who's smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged, plus the three guys she'd like to keep alive.
Books 1 and 2 must be read first.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 9, 2023
About the author
L.J. Swallow
93 books750 followersLJ 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 9, 2026
The mystery continues
Not much new to say compared to the other books. I'm still enjoying the series, the character development is slow going, but in a good way as it's developing at a natural and realistic pace. The mystery continues for who is killing and controlling shifters, and who's working with the witches!
Note: Book is still low spice, like, 1/5, no more than a bit of kissing. I don't mind since that gives us more time for plot!
Not much new to say compared to the other books. I'm still enjoying the series, the character development is slow going, but in a good way as it's developing at a natural and realistic pace. The mystery continues for who is killing and controlling shifters, and who's working with the witches!
Note: Book is still low spice, like, 1/5, no more than a bit of kissing. I don't mind since that gives us more time for plot!
March 26, 2026
3,5 ⭐️
Scritto bene, mistero che si infittisce, ma la parte romance davvero troppo lenta. Siamo alla fine del terzo volume e ancora si è fatto un misero passo avanti e solo nell’ultimo 30/40% del libro. Violet sta diventando irritante. Davvero troppo slow e quasi nulla burn. Speriamo che finalmente nel quarto ci sia una vera svolta.
Scritto bene, mistero che si infittisce, ma la parte romance davvero troppo lenta. Siamo alla fine del terzo volume e ancora si è fatto un misero passo avanti e solo nell’ultimo 30/40% del libro. Violet sta diventando irritante. Davvero troppo slow e quasi nulla burn. Speriamo che finalmente nel quarto ci sia una vera svolta.
August 20, 2023
Violet's death and resurrection, along with Grayson's monumental freak-out, have forced her to seek out Dorien for advice....or more freaking out. She knows that Grayson's presence is going to be problematic, but since she needs to get them all away from the cabin with blood runes she has to take him into the lion's den. Dorien manages not to kill anyone but he attempts to take over her investigation and she won't allow that. Leaving him to do what he does, she returns them to the Academy to keep them from looking suspicious by their absence. Her father has made her doubt whether she can trust Holly and she adds this to her to-do list. Sigh.
Some things will be solved and more things will make it onto Violet's list before this one is over. As if looking for witches, keeping Kai alive, and proving her innocence weren't enough, she also has to juggle Rowan, Grayson, and Leif. She is trying to improve her people skills, but considering other people's feelings is hard. Good thing all three guys cut her some slack....
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Some things will be solved and more things will make it onto Violet's list before this one is over. As if looking for witches, keeping Kai alive, and proving her innocence weren't enough, she also has to juggle Rowan, Grayson, and Leif. She is trying to improve her people skills, but considering other people's feelings is hard. Good thing all three guys cut her some slack....
I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
June 23, 2025
I feel so bad for the guys. I mean Greyson had to watch her die, Rowan felt it happen and Leif had to take her off the stake. It was nice to see Violet eventually empathize with the trauma they picked up from that. It was hilarious that they met her fathers and had to deal with all of that. Rowan’s power hungry nature is a growing concern given the shadows from Violet that he now has access to. Leif is definitely not safe from the shifters and Greyson’s uncle is not done being a problem. Very curious about this tiara and I’m hoping that we see more of her parents. Violet’s arrogance can be a little irritating sometimes but it’s meant to be. It’s funny how differently the guys all respond to it. It’s going to be great when the tension between them all snaps. She’s getting close with Rowan already.
October 4, 2023
So I enjoy these books, but I'm always left wanting a bit more.
I love the fact that there is mystery and intrigue. The pace is pretty good. I love the connections and how they keep building. All good stuff.
But for some reason at the end of each one I can't help but have a "that's it?" moment. I also feel like everything is left a little unfinished. And not in the good cliff hanger I need the next book kinda way, but in the what happened with that kinda way.
I'll keep reading these books, because like I said I enjoy them and I'minvested in the series at this point. But they aren't the I need a hard copy so I can reread them over and over type books.
I love the fact that there is mystery and intrigue. The pace is pretty good. I love the connections and how they keep building. All good stuff.
But for some reason at the end of each one I can't help but have a "that's it?" moment. I also feel like everything is left a little unfinished. And not in the good cliff hanger I need the next book kinda way, but in the what happened with that kinda way.
I'll keep reading these books, because like I said I enjoy them and I'minvested in the series at this point. But they aren't the I need a hard copy so I can reread them over and over type books.
August 23, 2023
I really loved this book!!! This is my favorite book of the series so far!! Violet and her guys have so much character development going on. Their romantic entanglements are also increasing with each new book. Violet is learning how to be more normal, while still retaining her quirkiness that makes her extra special. Rowan, Grayson, Leif, and Violet really care for each other and are learning what it means to be a good team and family. I cannot wait to see all the new trouble they get into next!!!
March 15, 2026
Intriguing Series
I’ve loved everything I have read from this author. Loving this series. If you like The Wednesday Series on Netflix this series is for you. Violet( one of my favorite character names) is very detached/blunt which comes off as hilarious. This is a RH with zero spice so far. I don’t expect any spice which I’m okay with. The storyline doesn’t need it but if it did have spice I would be good with that too. Follow the author and read he books if you want something fun and intriguing to read.
I’ve loved everything I have read from this author. Loving this series. If you like The Wednesday Series on Netflix this series is for you. Violet( one of my favorite character names) is very detached/blunt which comes off as hilarious. This is a RH with zero spice so far. I don’t expect any spice which I’m okay with. The storyline doesn’t need it but if it did have spice I would be good with that too. Follow the author and read he books if you want something fun and intriguing to read.
December 16, 2023
Oh Violet
I know that Violet is on a journey. I just don’t see why these 3 men are remotely interested in her. I get that she has years of learning to unlearn. But. Meaning to hurt someone or not…I don’t know. I just find her unlikeable and the men…someone’s she can walk all over. I know that the author has “redemption” planned here, but I’m losing the war with whether to continue the series or not.
I know that Violet is on a journey. I just don’t see why these 3 men are remotely interested in her. I get that she has years of learning to unlearn. But. Meaning to hurt someone or not…I don’t know. I just find her unlikeable and the men…someone’s she can walk all over. I know that the author has “redemption” planned here, but I’m losing the war with whether to continue the series or not.
April 23, 2024
if you liked the Wednesday series on Netflix, you will LOVE this series!
This story is so close to the Wednesday series! There are plot points that don’t line up, but it feels like Wednesday was copied from this and they added a little drama to change it up.
The main character seems to be completely unsocialized and on the spectrum missing many social cues. I absolutely love the straight man comedy.
This story is so close to the Wednesday series! There are plot points that don’t line up, but it feels like Wednesday was copied from this and they added a little drama to change it up.
The main character seems to be completely unsocialized and on the spectrum missing many social cues. I absolutely love the straight man comedy.
August 10, 2023
Slow burn
I love how slow the burn in this book is. Especially for a RH novel, the tension is thick. Violet cracks me up with how clueless she can be. The boys meet the dads, and it goes as well as you would expect, which makes it so much fun to read. Can't wait for the next one, I couldn't put it down once I started.
I love how slow the burn in this book is. Especially for a RH novel, the tension is thick. Violet cracks me up with how clueless she can be. The boys meet the dads, and it goes as well as you would expect, which makes it so much fun to read. Can't wait for the next one, I couldn't put it down once I started.
August 10, 2023
Gosh how I love Violet, I swear if more people behaved how she does, the world would be a better place 😆.
Her relationships with Rowan, Leif and Grayson are adorable, she unintentionally really makes them work for the tiniest of rewards.
The mystery element to this series is so cleverly written and layered.
Very deserving of 4 🌟 .
Her relationships with Rowan, Leif and Grayson are adorable, she unintentionally really makes them work for the tiniest of rewards.
The mystery element to this series is so cleverly written and layered.
Very deserving of 4 🌟 .
April 29, 2024
Pesky emotions
Things are becoming strange for Violet. The guys in her life, a witch, a shifter, and a human/shifter hybrid, have become more. Having them in her life has loosened her hold on her emotions. She's not sure how to deal with that. She is also still trying to solve the murders. At least now most people don't think she is the murderer!
Things are becoming strange for Violet. The guys in her life, a witch, a shifter, and a human/shifter hybrid, have become more. Having them in her life has loosened her hold on her emotions. She's not sure how to deal with that. She is also still trying to solve the murders. At least now most people don't think she is the murderer!
August 9, 2023
I love Violet in this book she makes me laugh with all her quirks. As she gets closer to the men and learning more about jer investigation we see new mysterys appear. The book had me hooked and I couldn't put down and need more now. Without giving much away it is a must read.
August 11, 2023
I love Violet
I absolutely adore Violet and all her eccentricities. Rowan is a witch, Grayson is a vamp, and Leif is half shifter. Violet is Dorian Blackwood’s daughter and people really dislike him, so of course they also dislike Violet.
I absolutely adore Violet and all her eccentricities. Rowan is a witch, Grayson is a vamp, and Leif is half shifter. Violet is Dorian Blackwood’s daughter and people really dislike him, so of course they also dislike Violet.
August 24, 2023
love this story!
The characters are developing further and I believe so is the main character. The plot continues to evolve but I am getting ready for the designated love interests to grow her emotionally.
The characters are developing further and I believe so is the main character. The plot continues to evolve but I am getting ready for the designated love interests to grow her emotionally.
January 1, 2024
Violet
Witches have been found to actually mind control the necromanced shifters to kill Wes and Rory. But necromancer part never came out . And Oz the bear who killed Rory is dead, too.
Witches have been found to actually mind control the necromanced shifters to kill Wes and Rory. But necromancer part never came out . And Oz the bear who killed Rory is dead, too.
January 3, 2024
🥰
I am so glad to see Violet reacting to her guys and working through everything that is happening, so much going on and in so many directions.
When you think you have worked the story out it heads off in another direction.. absolutely love it 😍😍
I am so glad to see Violet reacting to her guys and working through everything that is happening, so much going on and in so many directions.
When you think you have worked the story out it heads off in another direction.. absolutely love it 😍😍
January 31, 2024
another great read
Excellent third in the series sees Violet semi solve one mystery only to stumble on another—Nancy Drew she is not! Slightly spicier as her relationship with Rowan moves forward. 4.5 stars. Highly recommend.
Excellent third in the series sees Violet semi solve one mystery only to stumble on another—Nancy Drew she is not! Slightly spicier as her relationship with Rowan moves forward. 4.5 stars. Highly recommend.
February 25, 2024
Fantastic series
I love everything about this series. The mystery, romance, and funny quips. The characters are well developed and relatable. Even though there are witches, vampires, and shifters, the characters are people that any person could relate to.
I love everything about this series. The mystery, romance, and funny quips. The characters are well developed and relatable. Even though there are witches, vampires, and shifters, the characters are people that any person could relate to.
January 9, 2025
good book
I loved this book. Violet’s personality change is coming along and her development of sarcasm is hilarious. I love how her relationships with the guys are developing. Good writer
I loved this book. Violet’s personality change is coming along and her development of sarcasm is hilarious. I love how her relationships with the guys are developing. Good writer
August 16, 2023
I love the storyline of this series! I truly hope that we get many more mysteries for Violet to solve.
September 5, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Ohhh boy what has violet gotten into these days! Man oh man L.J. with the cliffhanger!!! I can not wait to see what happens next! As always 5 stars for me !
Ohhh boy what has violet gotten into these days! Man oh man L.J. with the cliffhanger!!! I can not wait to see what happens next! As always 5 stars for me !
November 2, 2023
Slow and boring: so much fuss for nothing; the story doesn't progress, Violet is simple-minded and this reading gave me the feeling of being a bird stuck in an oil slick.
November 16, 2023
awesome book
totally loved this book i cant wait for the next 1 and find out who is behind it all violet is a great character love her xx
totally loved this book i cant wait for the next 1 and find out who is behind it all violet is a great character love her xx
December 10, 2023
Great boik
Violet is not your typical teenager, she us very literal and blunt. She has no people skills but the men around her are getting more attached.
Violet is not your typical teenager, she us very literal and blunt. She has no people skills but the men around her are getting more attached.
December 15, 2023
Brilliant as usual
I love LJ Swallow every book I read gets better and better hurry up with no4 please I can’t wait to find out what happens…
I love LJ Swallow every book I read gets better and better hurry up with no4 please I can’t wait to find out what happens…
January 29, 2024
Very good story
I enjoyed the characters and the story lines of this story. I would definitely recommend that it is to be read along with the other books in the series.
I enjoyed the characters and the story lines of this story. I would definitely recommend that it is to be read along with the other books in the series.
February 2, 2024
I loved this book.
March 19, 2024
exciting
This book was written very well. I love all the characters especially Violet. Her consorts are exponentially different and handsome.. can’t wait to read the next one.
This book was written very well. I love all the characters especially Violet. Her consorts are exponentially different and handsome.. can’t wait to read the next one.
May 15, 2024
Although these are decent, they are just not for me. I am fighting to keep my interest on them. I just wish she would stop being so weird and just embrace the guys...give them a chance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews