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Gomada Academy
A shy, overachieving half-Nymph.
A defiant and reckless Shifter.
A haunted campus.
Sixteen-year-old Arya Willow is a Freshman at Gomada Academy, a prestigious boarding school for mythical beings. But she has a secret: she is half-human and half-Nymph. Intense rivals within the school make her question her enrollment – but nothing prepares her for her life-changing encounter with Shifter Cole, who is just as monstrous in human form.
Sophomore Cole Hudson is a full-blooded Shifter with a family secret of his own, indulging in rebellious acts to escape his destiny. All he wants in life is to forge his own path, yet fate continuously pulls him back. But when catastrophe strikes the campus, Cole believes he's right where he belongs.
Arya's timidity and Cole's belligerence clash when they first meet, making the fact that they've been paired up in the school's Mentorship Program all the more unbearable. However, their chemistry is undeniable, and neither one wants to admit it.
Can Arya and Cole put their differences aside to stop a ghost? One thing is for certain: secrets do not survive in Gomada Academy.
A defiant and reckless Shifter.
A haunted campus.
Sixteen-year-old Arya Willow is a Freshman at Gomada Academy, a prestigious boarding school for mythical beings. But she has a secret: she is half-human and half-Nymph. Intense rivals within the school make her question her enrollment – but nothing prepares her for her life-changing encounter with Shifter Cole, who is just as monstrous in human form.
Sophomore Cole Hudson is a full-blooded Shifter with a family secret of his own, indulging in rebellious acts to escape his destiny. All he wants in life is to forge his own path, yet fate continuously pulls him back. But when catastrophe strikes the campus, Cole believes he's right where he belongs.
Arya's timidity and Cole's belligerence clash when they first meet, making the fact that they've been paired up in the school's Mentorship Program all the more unbearable. However, their chemistry is undeniable, and neither one wants to admit it.
Can Arya and Cole put their differences aside to stop a ghost? One thing is for certain: secrets do not survive in Gomada Academy.
- GenresFantasy
Paperback, ebook
First published September 1, 2023
3 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 24, 2024
I’m not a huge fan of urban fantasy. It’s very hit or miss for me. While I don’t see myself continuing in this series, it was very well written and has me excited to try more from Brubaker in the future. If you’re a fan of Crave by Tracy Wolff (I used to be a huge fan of this series) then this is for you.
March 31, 2024
The first book in the #gomadaacademy series! - I really liked this book and the flow. It follows 16 year old Arya, a nymph going to school in another realm where she is paired up with her mentor Cole, a shifter, they discover something that should not be around campus and students start to go missing. - ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 - The only thing keeping me from giving it that full star was the bulling by the MMC, I get it and I like bully romance, but I felt it was exaggerated and over the top throughout the book until the LAST page! Overall it is a solid 280+ page book!
March 18, 2024
Cynthia Brubaker's 'Gomada Academy' ventures into the bustling world of a prestigious boarding school for mythical beings, through the eyes of Arya Willow, a half-human, half-Nymph freshman, and Cole Hudson, a full-blooded Shifter sophomore. With a rating of 3 out of 5 stars, my journey through the halls of Gomada Academy was marked by mixed feelings, primarily due to character dynamics and tropes that didn't fully resonate with me.
The novel is undoubtedly well-written, with Brubaker skillfully crafting a world where the mythical coexists with the mundane, and secrets lurk behind every corner. The premise of Arya and Cole's intertwined fates, alongside the overarching mystery they must unravel, provides a solid foundation for an engaging plot. The school setting, populated with a diverse cast of characters, offers a fertile ground for exploring themes of identity, destiny, and belonging.
However, the "enemies to lovers" trope, as portrayed in this book, veers closely towards a dynamic where the male protagonist's actions border on bullying. While this narrative choice can add depth and complexity to character relationships, it may not appeal to all readers. Arya's timidity in contrast to Cole's belligerence sets the stage for their initial interactions, which, though intended to build tension, sometimes felt more discomforting than compelling.
The character age and their corresponding behaviors are accurately depicted, capturing the essence of teenage angst and rebellion. Nonetheless, the protagonists' immaturity occasionally detracts from their likability and the story's overall enjoyment. This aspect, combined with the book's central romance, may affect the reader's ability to connect with Arya and Cole on a deeper level.
Despite these critiques, 'Gomada Academy' manages to hold interest with its intriguing plot and the promise of uncovering hidden truths. The novel does a commendable job of weaving together elements of fantasy and mystery, keeping the reader engaged till the last page.
In sum, while 'Gomada Academy' showcases Brubaker's talent for world-building and narrative creation, its execution of certain character dynamics and tropes might not align with every reader's preferences. Fans of mythical boarding school settings and supernatural mysteries may find much to enjoy, but those looking for a more conventional portrayal of the "enemies to lovers" trope might wish for a different approach. Though I may not continue with the series, I appreciate the imaginative journey Brubaker has crafted within the pages of 'Gomada Academy.'
I'd like to express my gratitude to Cynthia Brubaker for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of 'Gomada Academy.' This review reflects my honest opinions and insights into the book.
The novel is undoubtedly well-written, with Brubaker skillfully crafting a world where the mythical coexists with the mundane, and secrets lurk behind every corner. The premise of Arya and Cole's intertwined fates, alongside the overarching mystery they must unravel, provides a solid foundation for an engaging plot. The school setting, populated with a diverse cast of characters, offers a fertile ground for exploring themes of identity, destiny, and belonging.
However, the "enemies to lovers" trope, as portrayed in this book, veers closely towards a dynamic where the male protagonist's actions border on bullying. While this narrative choice can add depth and complexity to character relationships, it may not appeal to all readers. Arya's timidity in contrast to Cole's belligerence sets the stage for their initial interactions, which, though intended to build tension, sometimes felt more discomforting than compelling.
The character age and their corresponding behaviors are accurately depicted, capturing the essence of teenage angst and rebellion. Nonetheless, the protagonists' immaturity occasionally detracts from their likability and the story's overall enjoyment. This aspect, combined with the book's central romance, may affect the reader's ability to connect with Arya and Cole on a deeper level.
Despite these critiques, 'Gomada Academy' manages to hold interest with its intriguing plot and the promise of uncovering hidden truths. The novel does a commendable job of weaving together elements of fantasy and mystery, keeping the reader engaged till the last page.
In sum, while 'Gomada Academy' showcases Brubaker's talent for world-building and narrative creation, its execution of certain character dynamics and tropes might not align with every reader's preferences. Fans of mythical boarding school settings and supernatural mysteries may find much to enjoy, but those looking for a more conventional portrayal of the "enemies to lovers" trope might wish for a different approach. Though I may not continue with the series, I appreciate the imaginative journey Brubaker has crafted within the pages of 'Gomada Academy.'
I'd like to express my gratitude to Cynthia Brubaker for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of 'Gomada Academy.' This review reflects my honest opinions and insights into the book.
March 2, 2024
#16
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Looking for a thrilling dark academia read, that has magic, shifters, nymphs, enchantresses and ghosts? Thinking: no way a book has all of those? WRONG! #gomadaacademy has it all!
Both scared of their secrets being discovered, Arya and Cole are forced to work together as student and mentor. Their relationship is complicated: he’s a shifter, who hates nymphs (or basically anyone who isn’t a shifter), she’s a half-nymph. He’s tough, she’s soft. The perfect basis for an enemies to lovers story that every reader dreams of.
A shy, overachieving half-Nymph.
A defiant and reckless Shifter.
A haunted campus.
Sixteen-year-old Arya Willow is a Freshman at Gomada Academy, a prestigious boarding school for mythical beings. But she has a secret: she is half-human and half-Nymph. Intense rivals within the school make her question her enrollment – but nothing prepares her for her life-changing encounter with Shifter Cole, who is just as monstrous in human form.
Sophomore Cole Hudson is a full-blooded Shifter with a family secret of his own, indulging in rebellious acts to escape his destiny. All he wants in life is to forge his own path, yet fate continuously pulls him back. But when catastrophe strikes the campus, Cole believes he’s right where he belongs.
Arya’s timidity and Cole’s belligerence clash when they first meet, making the fact that they’ve been paired up in the school’s Mentorship Program all the more unbearable. However, their chemistry is undeniable, and neither one wants to admit it.
Can Arya and Cole put their differences aside to stop a ghost? One thing is for certain: secrets do not survive in Gomada Academy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Looking for a thrilling dark academia read, that has magic, shifters, nymphs, enchantresses and ghosts? Thinking: no way a book has all of those? WRONG! #gomadaacademy has it all!
Both scared of their secrets being discovered, Arya and Cole are forced to work together as student and mentor. Their relationship is complicated: he’s a shifter, who hates nymphs (or basically anyone who isn’t a shifter), she’s a half-nymph. He’s tough, she’s soft. The perfect basis for an enemies to lovers story that every reader dreams of.
A shy, overachieving half-Nymph.
A defiant and reckless Shifter.
A haunted campus.
Sixteen-year-old Arya Willow is a Freshman at Gomada Academy, a prestigious boarding school for mythical beings. But she has a secret: she is half-human and half-Nymph. Intense rivals within the school make her question her enrollment – but nothing prepares her for her life-changing encounter with Shifter Cole, who is just as monstrous in human form.
Sophomore Cole Hudson is a full-blooded Shifter with a family secret of his own, indulging in rebellious acts to escape his destiny. All he wants in life is to forge his own path, yet fate continuously pulls him back. But when catastrophe strikes the campus, Cole believes he’s right where he belongs.
Arya’s timidity and Cole’s belligerence clash when they first meet, making the fact that they’ve been paired up in the school’s Mentorship Program all the more unbearable. However, their chemistry is undeniable, and neither one wants to admit it.
Can Arya and Cole put their differences aside to stop a ghost? One thing is for certain: secrets do not survive in Gomada Academy.
March 20, 2024
3,5 ⭐️
Gomada Academy is the first book in the Gomada Academy series. The book is told from two points of view: half-human/half-nymph Arya and shifter Cole. It starts with Arya going to Gomada Academy to begin her freshman year.
Gomada Academy exists in a different realm than Earth (or the Overworld). Some students have spent their entire lives in Gomada, while others have lived all or part of their lives in the Overworld. There are three different types of supernatural beings in the school: shifters, enchantresses, and nymphs. The students have one or more elemental affinities.
I enjoyed the dark academia vibes of the book and the ghost hunting and mystery elements. However, I wasn't a huge fan of Arya as a character and often found her quite annoying. I hope she matures in future books and gains more confidence.
I also didn't particularly enjoy Arya and Cole's interactions, at least at the beginning of the book, and couldn't understand why Cole hated her so much. However, I think their relationship evolved nicely throughout the book.
The book was well-written, action-packed, and easy to read. It reminded me of both Gothikana and Zodiac Academy, so if you enjoy those books, I would definitely recommend checking this one out. Additionally, there was no explicit content in this book, making it suitable for younger readers compared to Gothikana and/or Zodiac Academy.
Some questions were left unanswered, and I'm interested to see where the story goes next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
Gomada Academy is the first book in the Gomada Academy series. The book is told from two points of view: half-human/half-nymph Arya and shifter Cole. It starts with Arya going to Gomada Academy to begin her freshman year.
Gomada Academy exists in a different realm than Earth (or the Overworld). Some students have spent their entire lives in Gomada, while others have lived all or part of their lives in the Overworld. There are three different types of supernatural beings in the school: shifters, enchantresses, and nymphs. The students have one or more elemental affinities.
I enjoyed the dark academia vibes of the book and the ghost hunting and mystery elements. However, I wasn't a huge fan of Arya as a character and often found her quite annoying. I hope she matures in future books and gains more confidence.
I also didn't particularly enjoy Arya and Cole's interactions, at least at the beginning of the book, and couldn't understand why Cole hated her so much. However, I think their relationship evolved nicely throughout the book.
The book was well-written, action-packed, and easy to read. It reminded me of both Gothikana and Zodiac Academy, so if you enjoy those books, I would definitely recommend checking this one out. Additionally, there was no explicit content in this book, making it suitable for younger readers compared to Gothikana and/or Zodiac Academy.
Some questions were left unanswered, and I'm interested to see where the story goes next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
March 2, 2025
This was a quick and entertaining read!
Arya is suddenly in a whole new realm and facing problems at schools with all your regular teenage stuff: crushes, bullies, mean girls, and fashion. As well as trying to get her powers to work when she is only a half-Nymph.
We also get Cole's POV and I can't say I liked his character at all. I'm slightly intrigued at his family history and the "monster" that is his Shifter form. Otherwise he takes bullying to a whole other level. He even burned Arya with his cigarette once and tried to do it again. I honestly just cannot stand him.
The romance happens swiftly in the end. This is definitely a bully romance as Cole bullies Arya for the entire book and causes her to cry multiple times. She starts to get better about standing up to him, but I want to see more character growth from her in the next book. I don't believe this should be advertised as enemies to lovers.
There's the whole mystery of the "ghost" they are trying to uncover and I'm very intrigued to see what is happening there.
I own the second book too, so I'm going to read it because it's also pretty quick, but if Arya and Cole become end game... I don't know. The author is going to have to work hard to get me to change my mind on him. I'm looking forward to seeing more character and magic growth and hopefully getting some answers about the Ghost mystery! I'm also definitely aging out of YA, so while this book wasn't bad, I am not the target reader any longer.
Read if you love:
-Academia books
-Bully romance
-Mean girls
-Shifters, Nymphs, and Enchanters
Arya is suddenly in a whole new realm and facing problems at schools with all your regular teenage stuff: crushes, bullies, mean girls, and fashion. As well as trying to get her powers to work when she is only a half-Nymph.
We also get Cole's POV and I can't say I liked his character at all. I'm slightly intrigued at his family history and the "monster" that is his Shifter form. Otherwise he takes bullying to a whole other level. He even burned Arya with his cigarette once and tried to do it again. I honestly just cannot stand him.
The romance happens swiftly in the end. This is definitely a bully romance as Cole bullies Arya for the entire book and causes her to cry multiple times. She starts to get better about standing up to him, but I want to see more character growth from her in the next book. I don't believe this should be advertised as enemies to lovers.
There's the whole mystery of the "ghost" they are trying to uncover and I'm very intrigued to see what is happening there.
I own the second book too, so I'm going to read it because it's also pretty quick, but if Arya and Cole become end game... I don't know. The author is going to have to work hard to get me to change my mind on him. I'm looking forward to seeing more character and magic growth and hopefully getting some answers about the Ghost mystery! I'm also definitely aging out of YA, so while this book wasn't bad, I am not the target reader any longer.
Read if you love:
-Academia books
-Bully romance
-Mean girls
-Shifters, Nymphs, and Enchanters
March 5, 2024
Gomada Academy piqued my interest with the promise of enemies-to-lovers, academy drama, shifters, ghosts and much more! What I wasn't expecting...that this was actually a YA novel, and the "enemies-to-lovers" was more of a "bully romance."
Gomada Academy starts the story off by introducing readers to young Arya Willow. She's a Nymph, but she's only half. She's half Nymph, half human. A negative in her mind as she thinks that it will cause her to be looked down upon by her fellow classmates.
Arya was a struggle to really like. I'm an introvert myself, but Arya reads as fragile. Excessively so, and it was hard to like her, let alone connect to her as a character. Readers who are used to more spunky female characters will struggle to like Arya. She'll have some moments of showing serious backbone, but it takes a lot of patience to get there. Of course, Cole is a complete jerk. Excessively so, too! He literally walks around like he has the world's biggest chip on his shoulder.
A lot of the things the author warns readers about come to fruition in this book. But there are moments where the storyline comes together and readers will be drawn in more and become more intrigued in the danger and mystery that is swirling around the Academy.
A variety of tropes can be found throughout this book. Overall, it's an okay story at the end of the day. Neither character is a favorite, and the book ends on an expected note and tone, but since this is the first in a series, hopefully book two will show more growth and progress with the characters.
3.5 out of 5 stars
Gomada Academy starts the story off by introducing readers to young Arya Willow. She's a Nymph, but she's only half. She's half Nymph, half human. A negative in her mind as she thinks that it will cause her to be looked down upon by her fellow classmates.
Arya was a struggle to really like. I'm an introvert myself, but Arya reads as fragile. Excessively so, and it was hard to like her, let alone connect to her as a character. Readers who are used to more spunky female characters will struggle to like Arya. She'll have some moments of showing serious backbone, but it takes a lot of patience to get there. Of course, Cole is a complete jerk. Excessively so, too! He literally walks around like he has the world's biggest chip on his shoulder.
A lot of the things the author warns readers about come to fruition in this book. But there are moments where the storyline comes together and readers will be drawn in more and become more intrigued in the danger and mystery that is swirling around the Academy.
A variety of tropes can be found throughout this book. Overall, it's an okay story at the end of the day. Neither character is a favorite, and the book ends on an expected note and tone, but since this is the first in a series, hopefully book two will show more growth and progress with the characters.
3.5 out of 5 stars
February 22, 2024
Lovers of Zodiac Academy would probably enjoy this book.
Arya is sent to attend Gomada Academy to learn how to control and develop her magical skills. As a nymph she seems to be bottom of the pecking order and has to contend with challenges from the other students including Enchantresses and Shifters all of whom have a particular element they are attuned to.
This book is intended for a younger audience than Zodiac Academy and you will not see the same level of spice as you would in the other series.
I think as someone in my thirties, this book read too young for me but then I’m not the intended audience and I think younger readers would really enjoy it.
It’s fast paced with plenty of action, interesting characters and a paranormal twist which was enjoyable to read.
The writing is good, it’s an easy read and I finished it in one sitting.
The characters are interesting but have some growing up to do; I’d like to see Arya grow in confidence and stand up for herself more as the series develops.
There are some unfinished storylines in this book which have paved the way for the rest of the series. It’s a good start to the series and I’ll be recommending it to some younger readers I know.
Thanks to @BoundByMischief for the chance to read and review
Arya is sent to attend Gomada Academy to learn how to control and develop her magical skills. As a nymph she seems to be bottom of the pecking order and has to contend with challenges from the other students including Enchantresses and Shifters all of whom have a particular element they are attuned to.
This book is intended for a younger audience than Zodiac Academy and you will not see the same level of spice as you would in the other series.
I think as someone in my thirties, this book read too young for me but then I’m not the intended audience and I think younger readers would really enjoy it.
It’s fast paced with plenty of action, interesting characters and a paranormal twist which was enjoyable to read.
The writing is good, it’s an easy read and I finished it in one sitting.
The characters are interesting but have some growing up to do; I’d like to see Arya grow in confidence and stand up for herself more as the series develops.
There are some unfinished storylines in this book which have paved the way for the rest of the series. It’s a good start to the series and I’ll be recommending it to some younger readers I know.
Thanks to @BoundByMischief for the chance to read and review
March 1, 2024
Would rate 3 1/2 stars. This is a fun YA novel with a really unique magic system. The writing was a bit juvenile for my taste (but to be fairly expected in YA) and the female main character greatly lacks confidence and real world experience. The male lead is quite obnoxious at the beginning of the book, but does mature a fair amount and become more likeable. I am hoping the female lead will experience similar growth in the sequel.
I felt the story was a bit oddly broken up, the first book only covers a two month time period of the school year, I felt it could have given us a little more story so we could span a longer period over the trilogy.
A couple of plot points seemed to be dropped (might have been cut out in editing and then accidentally still mentioned elsewhere, not clear).
Overall, still an enjoyable read and will likely pick up the remaining stories in the series.
Would certainly recommend to high-school aged people looking for a fantasy read.
I felt the story was a bit oddly broken up, the first book only covers a two month time period of the school year, I felt it could have given us a little more story so we could span a longer period over the trilogy.
A couple of plot points seemed to be dropped (might have been cut out in editing and then accidentally still mentioned elsewhere, not clear).
Overall, still an enjoyable read and will likely pick up the remaining stories in the series.
Would certainly recommend to high-school aged people looking for a fantasy read.
March 2, 2024
I love fantasy and romance and dark academia and enemies to lovers! And all of that can be found in Gomada Academy! I really enjoy books involving magic school and this one had a take on it I hadn’t come across yet. The academy is for mythical beings (Nymphs, Enchanters, and Shifters) and for the most part the three types of magical beings are kept separate while they learn and practice. So any type of relationship between the beings is pretty unusual.
Personally I struggled with the characters because they’re pretty young (Arya is only 16) and it was hard for me to get into their mindset and maturity level to start with. So I really struggled with Cole and how he acts at the beginning. But once I was able to wrap my head around their ages and everything it made for a good read!
I think there is so much room for character development and world building! And I really hope that happens in future books. I love that it was a slow burn romance, although it felt a bit rushed at the end. But I also feel that another book will make it feel a bit less rushed.
While I don’t feel I was necessarily the target audience for this book, I still enjoyed it! It was fast paced, the plot is intriguing, the storyline was unique, and the characters have a lot of room for development! I look forward to seeing where the story goes from here!
Personally I struggled with the characters because they’re pretty young (Arya is only 16) and it was hard for me to get into their mindset and maturity level to start with. So I really struggled with Cole and how he acts at the beginning. But once I was able to wrap my head around their ages and everything it made for a good read!
I think there is so much room for character development and world building! And I really hope that happens in future books. I love that it was a slow burn romance, although it felt a bit rushed at the end. But I also feel that another book will make it feel a bit less rushed.
While I don’t feel I was necessarily the target audience for this book, I still enjoyed it! It was fast paced, the plot is intriguing, the storyline was unique, and the characters have a lot of room for development! I look forward to seeing where the story goes from here!
February 28, 2024
Boarding school, mythical beings, and enemies to lovers? Say no more. This story, although being unexpectedly YA, really grabbed my attention. I enjoyed the dark academia vibes and the magical powers of the mythical beings. I was living for the clashing between Arya and Cole.
Arya is a nymph and at the bottom of the food chain based on the hierarchy of the school’s mythical beings. Her timidity was dragging her down, but she possessed a quiet strength that I was eager for her to let loose. I see great things coming from her.
Cole was a downright bully and as a shifter, was one step above Arya in the hierarchy. I yo-yoed between dislike and like for him. His bullying of Arya were moments where I wanted to throw my shoe at him, but then he endeared himself to me when he put on his hero hat to try and save the school from the ghost.
I loved the tension between Cole and Arya and later when the sparks flew, I enjoyed seeing them try to navigate those blossoming feelings. Cole and Arya balanced each other out and both had that strong sense of loyalty to help those they care about.
There are quite a few unanswered questions left brewing and I am interest to find out how things are resolved.
Arya is a nymph and at the bottom of the food chain based on the hierarchy of the school’s mythical beings. Her timidity was dragging her down, but she possessed a quiet strength that I was eager for her to let loose. I see great things coming from her.
Cole was a downright bully and as a shifter, was one step above Arya in the hierarchy. I yo-yoed between dislike and like for him. His bullying of Arya were moments where I wanted to throw my shoe at him, but then he endeared himself to me when he put on his hero hat to try and save the school from the ghost.
I loved the tension between Cole and Arya and later when the sparks flew, I enjoyed seeing them try to navigate those blossoming feelings. Cole and Arya balanced each other out and both had that strong sense of loyalty to help those they care about.
There are quite a few unanswered questions left brewing and I am interest to find out how things are resolved.
February 29, 2024
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
I loved so many things from this book ... especially the whole dark academic vibes ✨️
Cole's character was so intriguing to me, and wish that more was talked about his 'alter ego.
The whole mystery surrounding the 'ghost' haunting the students was more interesting to me than any other plot / subplot.
I can honestly I could not connect with Arya, and even at times, Cole's character was a lot! Especially when it came to their interactions in the beginning.
The ending was not surprising, but I do have questions and curiosities on what happens next. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
I loved so many things from this book ... especially the whole dark academic vibes ✨️
Cole's character was so intriguing to me, and wish that more was talked about his 'alter ego.
The whole mystery surrounding the 'ghost' haunting the students was more interesting to me than any other plot / subplot.
I can honestly I could not connect with Arya, and even at times, Cole's character was a lot! Especially when it came to their interactions in the beginning.
The ending was not surprising, but I do have questions and curiosities on what happens next. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
March 3, 2024
It was a very good book for setting the scene for the rest of the series. There was a lot of world-building and relationship-building, which I think will be quite helpful further along the story.
We get to know what I'm assuming is the main characters of the series and a cast of secondary characters, some of whom might not make it to the end of the series. Who knows?! I can't wait for the next installment!
We get to know what I'm assuming is the main characters of the series and a cast of secondary characters, some of whom might not make it to the end of the series. Who knows?! I can't wait for the next installment!
March 3, 2024
I need the next book already. I love this book so much. Going on my top 10 reads of 2024😩😉
Gomada Academy is quick and fast paced read with AMAZING world building. If you are looking for a book with a dark academia setting and a splash of enemies to lovers and forbidden love then I 1000% recommend that you check this book out😊
Overall Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
World Building: 10/5⭐️
Characters: 5/5⭐️
Gomada Academy is quick and fast paced read with AMAZING world building. If you are looking for a book with a dark academia setting and a splash of enemies to lovers and forbidden love then I 1000% recommend that you check this book out😊
Overall Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
World Building: 10/5⭐️
Characters: 5/5⭐️
October 26, 2023
Quick read, fun storyline
March 1, 2025
Omgggggg absolutely love this book!!!! Awesome story from an amazing author.. on to book 2!!!!!🥳😻💜
October 9, 2023
“Gomada Academy is a fast-paced read that hits a pace set to draw you into the story of the magical students. Cynthia Brubaker establishes a well-developed world and magic system sure to please all fantasy fans of enchanted academies featuring a student body comprised of Shifters, Nymphs and Enchanters. Cole Hudson, a Shifter, may come across as a bully and misanthrope but he is balanced by the other main protagonist, Arya Willow, a Nymph, trying to find her place in her first year at the school. The cliche of the meet/cute is avoided with the pair as Cole only appreciates other Shifters and nervous, even timid, Arya immediately rubs him the wrong way. She manages to reciprocate his dislike yet circumstances drive the pair together as they find themselves confronted with a threat that could destroy Gomada Academy. Sparks fly but the cast of characters keep the reader engaged and entertained. It does end wide-open for a sequel so be prepared to keep an eye-peeled the rest of the series.”
March 10, 2024
Okay so I really enjoyed the lighter, younger vibes of this book. I’m usually a super dark romance/heavy spice lover but this book took me by surprise! I loved the world building and the relationships that bloomed! I also found it to be fast paced and loved that it was dual POV and first person.
Overall an easy 4.5⭐️
November 17, 2023
Arya is timid and generally uncertain but not in a whiny way. She is kind and always tries to do the right thing. I found her likable.
Cole is tough and tortured by his potential. In the beginning, Cole has exactly one endearing quality—he’s a good friend to Diego. I didn’t love Cole for much of the book, which I think is intentional. And yet, somehow, I found it really cute that Cole thinks of Arya as “the Pixie.”
The host of other characters Arya meets as a freshman at Gomada Academy, good and bad, are intriguing. I really enjoyed this magic system with Affinities, Trinkets, and Familiars!
Loved the ending.
Cole is tough and tortured by his potential. In the beginning, Cole has exactly one endearing quality—he’s a good friend to Diego. I didn’t love Cole for much of the book, which I think is intentional. And yet, somehow, I found it really cute that Cole thinks of Arya as “the Pixie.”
The host of other characters Arya meets as a freshman at Gomada Academy, good and bad, are intriguing. I really enjoyed this magic system with Affinities, Trinkets, and Familiars!
Loved the ending.
April 21, 2025
Full disclaimer Cynthia is my writing friend.
I enjoyed the characters and spooky vibes of this one. There is something about a boarding school setting that has always intrigued me. This was a cool and magical world to dive into. It was also character-driven, which I love. Arya was so likable that you couldn't help but relate and root for her.
I think this is a great start to the series and can't wait to see what comes next!
I enjoyed the characters and spooky vibes of this one. There is something about a boarding school setting that has always intrigued me. This was a cool and magical world to dive into. It was also character-driven, which I love. Arya was so likable that you couldn't help but relate and root for her.
I think this is a great start to the series and can't wait to see what comes next!
March 2, 2024
I was looking for something with supernatural boarding school vibes when I came across Gomada Academy. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The setting and the world-building are fantastic. Also, Cole has a vibe!
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Summary: We start with Arya's first day in the academy, where she needs to find her mentor, Cole Hudson, who is supposed to give her a tour and help her get familiar with the academy. Being a half human and a half nymph, she is already an odd one, although no one knows about it yet, and no one will know where she is concerned.
Cole is a shifter, and a dangerous one. Nobody at the academy knows what his shifter animal is except his best friend and a professor, and he is not keen on telling anyone either. He is rude, uncaring, and a loner.
Arya is determined to do well in the academy, and with that determination, she starts looking for Cole, who wants nothing to do with her.
When strange things start to happen around them, both of them find themselves involved so much that they will have to keep aside their animosity and work together.
Plot and Writing: I loved the setting and the plot. Written in first person and from dual POVs (Cole and Arya's), this book is pretty fast-paced. I loved the writing and the way each character had their own individual voice. As it is the first book in the series, I had a couple of wishes about the writing. The first was to bring a bit more detail into its side characters; although they had their voices and personalities, a lot of the details about them were kept in the dark. In the second, I would have loved it if the ending was handled a bit more smoothly. The concluding sequence was ideal, but the way it was handled ended up feeling a bit abrupt.
Characters: I loved Cole and rooted for him throughout the book. He thinks and feels in extremes and nothing in between. He also has a very dark sense of humor, which is clearly not funny to others. It was both hilarious and touching.
"It's Friday afternoon during Literature class, where I already want to end my life, when I get an idea."
Arya is priceless! I loved that the author chose her as the main lead. We rarely see a timid, self-doubting, not all-powerful, but half-human main character. And, of course, I loved her.
"I need to try and deal with this on my own. And if that means, crying myself to sleep, I guess that's what I'll have to do. It may sound pathetic, but that's me."
I loved all the other characters, but I just wish that we got a bit more detailed version.
Romance: The enemies-to-lovers romance here is both realistic and palpable. Their chemistry is everything that is expected from the enemies-to-lovers trope. In addition to that, it is spice-free.
Recommendation: I would love to recommend this to all the fantasy readers out there; it is an exciting series to get into.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Summary: We start with Arya's first day in the academy, where she needs to find her mentor, Cole Hudson, who is supposed to give her a tour and help her get familiar with the academy. Being a half human and a half nymph, she is already an odd one, although no one knows about it yet, and no one will know where she is concerned.
Cole is a shifter, and a dangerous one. Nobody at the academy knows what his shifter animal is except his best friend and a professor, and he is not keen on telling anyone either. He is rude, uncaring, and a loner.
Arya is determined to do well in the academy, and with that determination, she starts looking for Cole, who wants nothing to do with her.
When strange things start to happen around them, both of them find themselves involved so much that they will have to keep aside their animosity and work together.
Plot and Writing: I loved the setting and the plot. Written in first person and from dual POVs (Cole and Arya's), this book is pretty fast-paced. I loved the writing and the way each character had their own individual voice. As it is the first book in the series, I had a couple of wishes about the writing. The first was to bring a bit more detail into its side characters; although they had their voices and personalities, a lot of the details about them were kept in the dark. In the second, I would have loved it if the ending was handled a bit more smoothly. The concluding sequence was ideal, but the way it was handled ended up feeling a bit abrupt.
Characters: I loved Cole and rooted for him throughout the book. He thinks and feels in extremes and nothing in between. He also has a very dark sense of humor, which is clearly not funny to others. It was both hilarious and touching.
"It's Friday afternoon during Literature class, where I already want to end my life, when I get an idea."
Arya is priceless! I loved that the author chose her as the main lead. We rarely see a timid, self-doubting, not all-powerful, but half-human main character. And, of course, I loved her.
"I need to try and deal with this on my own. And if that means, crying myself to sleep, I guess that's what I'll have to do. It may sound pathetic, but that's me."
I loved all the other characters, but I just wish that we got a bit more detailed version.
Romance: The enemies-to-lovers romance here is both realistic and palpable. Their chemistry is everything that is expected from the enemies-to-lovers trope. In addition to that, it is spice-free.
Recommendation: I would love to recommend this to all the fantasy readers out there; it is an exciting series to get into.
October 3, 2024
Disclaimer: Cynthia Brubaker is an author friend of mine. I don't believe that should affect my opinion at all :)
So, for a start, this is definitely a YA, meaning I am very much NOT the target audience. That being said, putting myself in the shoes of a late teen for a moment (gosh, that seems so long ago), I can definitely see this working.
Especially girls who put on a confident face but struggle with insecurities might really find a kindred soul in Arya, the female protagonist.
The writing is very modern and casual, making this a very easy read.
The book very clearly is a setup for book 2 and is definitely laying the groundwork for some pay off in later books. Not just in terms of plot, but also in terms of character development.
If I had children, or new someone with late teens who have an interest in fantasy, I'd definitely recommend it and I'd be confident they'd be picking up not just book 1 but the rest of the series as well.
So, for a start, this is definitely a YA, meaning I am very much NOT the target audience. That being said, putting myself in the shoes of a late teen for a moment (gosh, that seems so long ago), I can definitely see this working.
Especially girls who put on a confident face but struggle with insecurities might really find a kindred soul in Arya, the female protagonist.
The writing is very modern and casual, making this a very easy read.
The book very clearly is a setup for book 2 and is definitely laying the groundwork for some pay off in later books. Not just in terms of plot, but also in terms of character development.
If I had children, or new someone with late teens who have an interest in fantasy, I'd definitely recommend it and I'd be confident they'd be picking up not just book 1 but the rest of the series as well.
August 24, 2024
This was such a great read!
The setting that is the Gomada Academy is wonderful. It was nice to be taken to a new world without being overwhelmed by rules and locations and magic systems. All of those things were there, but in moderation and introduced at a pace that made things easy to follow and understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and their arcs, too. I relate to Arya as that timid little pushover, and I was cheering her on as I was reading, willing her to grow a backbone and learn to stand up for herself. I spent a lot of the time wanting to smack Cole for being an idiot.
The mystery that this book follows has me captivated. I'll not say anything spoilery, but I'm dying to see these characters get to the bottom of what is happening! I'm off to immediately start the sequel.
The setting that is the Gomada Academy is wonderful. It was nice to be taken to a new world without being overwhelmed by rules and locations and magic systems. All of those things were there, but in moderation and introduced at a pace that made things easy to follow and understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and their arcs, too. I relate to Arya as that timid little pushover, and I was cheering her on as I was reading, willing her to grow a backbone and learn to stand up for herself. I spent a lot of the time wanting to smack Cole for being an idiot.
The mystery that this book follows has me captivated. I'll not say anything spoilery, but I'm dying to see these characters get to the bottom of what is happening! I'm off to immediately start the sequel.
March 28, 2024
🧚🏻♀️ Forced proximity
🧚🏻♀️ Opposites attract
🧚🏻♀️ Paranormal mystery
🧚🏻♀️ Dark Academia vibes
🧚🏻♀️ YA
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. This gave me strong dark winx vibe like the TV Show and I was here for it.
I enjoyed reading this book and learn more about the story but some of the behaviours were just annoying me, made me violent and kept me from fully liking the characters and enjoying even more.
Nonetheless, I finished it in two sitting and I'm looking forward to book 2, this ended right in the middle of a particular scene.
🧚🏻♀️ Opposites attract
🧚🏻♀️ Paranormal mystery
🧚🏻♀️ Dark Academia vibes
🧚🏻♀️ YA
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. This gave me strong dark winx vibe like the TV Show and I was here for it.
I enjoyed reading this book and learn more about the story but some of the behaviours were just annoying me, made me violent and kept me from fully liking the characters and enjoying even more.
Nonetheless, I finished it in two sitting and I'm looking forward to book 2, this ended right in the middle of a particular scene.
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