What do you think?
Rate this book
The Originals of Grimm Academy #2
House of Lycan: The Originals of Grimm Academy
My last year at the famous Grimm Academy was supposed to be perfect. But instead I find out a deranged criminal is stalking me? Of course, just my luck. Rhea has big plans for her life. Top of her class at Grimm Academy, a go-getter with a budding journalist career. But her plans get derailed when she realizes she is being stalked. And if that weren’t enough, the man stalking her is a deranged killer that has just escaped an inescapable prison. He is Synn Iarro, the Broken Fae, and she is just a shifter that can’t shift. Against her grandmother’s wishes, Rhea starts investigating the fugitive, and she finds out this case is more than she ever bargained for. With the fate of the world hanging in the balance, a mystery that is begging to be solved, Rhea needs to dive deep into her own past to make sense of her future. And to make it even harder for Rhea, the Broken Fae is a real handful to deal with. But then again, there is something so enticing about him. If you enjoyed Shannon Mayer a nd Sarah J. Maas, you will find this book unputdownable. “It’s like Harry Potter for women who like their books spicy!” Spicy ✓✓✓ ★ Standalone/No cliffhanger ★ Strong female protagonist ★ Enemies to lovers ★ Dual POV ★ Stalking ★ Touch her and d!e ★ Slow burn ★ Dark fairytale world ★ Mythology Will Rhea become the Grimm Academy savior and what will that mean for her steamy yet complicated relationship with Synn? Buy this book now and enter into the mysterious world of Grimm Academy
317 pages, Paperback
Published August 14, 2023
67 people are currently reading
511 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
August 23, 2023
I’m so disappointed I didn’t like this book. 😭 the synopsis and marketing made it sound like everything I love in a book series. But this story was incredibly difficult for me to read. I mean physically, the writing was very off and I had no idea what was going on and what was happening well over half the time.
The beginning had lots of content warnings of darker themes and explicit spice - but idk if I just read toxic books or what but it wasn’t dark or spicy really. 🥲
The main characters fell flat for me, the story dragged. It felt like a chore to finish.
I unfortunately will not be continuing this story. However, if you’re reading this - please also look at other’s reviews. There are several who enjoyed the book and maybe this book will be for you, dear reader. Unfortunately for me, it wasn’t.
This was an arc, and these are my honest thoughts.
The beginning had lots of content warnings of darker themes and explicit spice - but idk if I just read toxic books or what but it wasn’t dark or spicy really. 🥲
The main characters fell flat for me, the story dragged. It felt like a chore to finish.
I unfortunately will not be continuing this story. However, if you’re reading this - please also look at other’s reviews. There are several who enjoyed the book and maybe this book will be for you, dear reader. Unfortunately for me, it wasn’t.
This was an arc, and these are my honest thoughts.
August 14, 2023
So I was given the opportunity to receive the ARC of House of Lycan, I’ve never really read fantasy genre books. But I really wanted to give it ago.
This is the 2nd book in the series, you don’t haven’t to read in order but I’d definitely read House of Ydril first just to get some background information.
Anyway into the review…..
This book was so gripping I couldn’t put it down, I loved the character development of both the MFC & MMC both individually and together, Synn is just dreamy 🤤🤤
Loved the relationship between Rhea and her Wolf.
The twist had a shook😱
Action and Magic all rolled into one with a bit of spicy 🌶️
Definitely a fantastic read, can’t wait for them next one House of Lilith x
This is the 2nd book in the series, you don’t haven’t to read in order but I’d definitely read House of Ydril first just to get some background information.
Anyway into the review…..
This book was so gripping I couldn’t put it down, I loved the character development of both the MFC & MMC both individually and together, Synn is just dreamy 🤤🤤
Loved the relationship between Rhea and her Wolf.
The twist had a shook😱
Action and Magic all rolled into one with a bit of spicy 🌶️
Definitely a fantastic read, can’t wait for them next one House of Lilith x
August 16, 2023
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 2/5
ARC Review
Raves: Really enjoyed the atmosphere of Grimm Academy and the idea that all different types of magical beings come together. I also loved the overall progression of the story. The pace was really good, at no point did I feel like the story was dragging on just for the sake of hitting some arbitrary length. Rhea's story was really interesting and it kept me wondering/guessing, Synn's backstory was equally compelling. I would love for him to get his own book and see it through his eyes. My favorite character here is Raven - she was a really fresh and unique character that I'd love to see more of. As someone who often reads massive series, having the option for standalones that offer interesting storylines and characters without having to commit to the larger series is amazing. Will definitely be reading more from Lyra!
Critiques: While this is written as a standalone inside of a series, I wonder how much context I was missing by not having read book 1 before HoL. There are a good handful of minor conflicts happening at the same time as the main conflict and that left me wondering "what is this story about..." for a good portion of the book. And while I love a good enemies-to-lovers trope, I don't know that I really understood their relationship and its turning point from enemies to lovers, it felt like it happened abruptly. Would alsoblove to see bigger character arcs but that my just be personal preference.
🌶 2/5
ARC Review
Raves: Really enjoyed the atmosphere of Grimm Academy and the idea that all different types of magical beings come together. I also loved the overall progression of the story. The pace was really good, at no point did I feel like the story was dragging on just for the sake of hitting some arbitrary length. Rhea's story was really interesting and it kept me wondering/guessing, Synn's backstory was equally compelling. I would love for him to get his own book and see it through his eyes. My favorite character here is Raven - she was a really fresh and unique character that I'd love to see more of. As someone who often reads massive series, having the option for standalones that offer interesting storylines and characters without having to commit to the larger series is amazing. Will definitely be reading more from Lyra!
Critiques: While this is written as a standalone inside of a series, I wonder how much context I was missing by not having read book 1 before HoL. There are a good handful of minor conflicts happening at the same time as the main conflict and that left me wondering "what is this story about..." for a good portion of the book. And while I love a good enemies-to-lovers trope, I don't know that I really understood their relationship and its turning point from enemies to lovers, it felt like it happened abruptly. Would alsoblove to see bigger character arcs but that my just be personal preference.
August 13, 2023
Definitely check TWs just to be safe before reading! The author’s writing had it where you connect with the characters and understand the world they are in. I could feel myself right there with the characters, all while wanting the best for them.. just for another twist/turn to flip everything.
I received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
I received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
August 15, 2023
I was lucky enough to get this as a ARC and, I throughly enjoyed it. I loved the MFC Rhea who was more relatable than most (I.e hang ups about her body and who she is). Synn MMC was a mystery at first and I would have liked more chapters from his POV but, I loved how we finally got to know more about him.
The twist at the end ‘chefs kiss’ wasn’t what I was thinking was going to happen at all. I def think this book could have been longer as I devoured it in a day (well currently 2am now and I have just put it down!). Will definitely be reading the rest of the series and more from Lyra!
If your into fantasy then it’s a book for you and, if your not it’s a good place to dip your toes in. Not as much spice as I expected but a decent amount that I am sure will keep people happy lol. 🌶️
Also please read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book 🙂
The twist at the end ‘chefs kiss’ wasn’t what I was thinking was going to happen at all. I def think this book could have been longer as I devoured it in a day (well currently 2am now and I have just put it down!). Will definitely be reading the rest of the series and more from Lyra!
If your into fantasy then it’s a book for you and, if your not it’s a good place to dip your toes in. Not as much spice as I expected but a decent amount that I am sure will keep people happy lol. 🌶️
Also please read the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book 🙂
August 15, 2023
I have to be honest this book just kind of confused me. I am not really sure what I just read. There were times when I had to double back to retain what it was that I had read. I think this is a great book for some but I guess for me it wasn't my speed. I also didn't feel like there was a lot of character development and some characters played roles that I didn't quite understand. I have alot of questions just based on my overall confusion of this book.
I was really excited because at the start of the book it talks about how it is a spicy dark book and there was nothing dark or really even spicy about it. There was like two spice scenes if you even can call one of them that, which is why I gave this book a 2 stars because it doesn't fit into that profile at all (in my opinion)
I was really excited because at the start of the book it talks about how it is a spicy dark book and there was nothing dark or really even spicy about it. There was like two spice scenes if you even can call one of them that, which is why I gave this book a 2 stars because it doesn't fit into that profile at all (in my opinion)
August 13, 2023
**I received an ARC to read, but this is my 100% honest review.**
Rhea is of the house of Lycan. She’s the granddaughter of a council member and she has only shifted once because apparently she caused horrible destruction. She is in her last year of Grimm Academy. And her world is about to change in some major ways.
Synn is the man who escapes from the inescapable prison. And yet, not all is as it seems for him either. I’m his quest for revenge, he discovers some hard truths and must find a way to save what he loves most.
Morally Grey MMC ✔️
Dark Romance ✔️
Spice ✔️
Stalking ✔️
Violence & Self-Loathing ✔️
Beware those you know & be open minded to a man who has a rough past. 😉🖤🔥
Rhea is of the house of Lycan. She’s the granddaughter of a council member and she has only shifted once because apparently she caused horrible destruction. She is in her last year of Grimm Academy. And her world is about to change in some major ways.
Synn is the man who escapes from the inescapable prison. And yet, not all is as it seems for him either. I’m his quest for revenge, he discovers some hard truths and must find a way to save what he loves most.
Morally Grey MMC ✔️
Dark Romance ✔️
Spice ✔️
Stalking ✔️
Violence & Self-Loathing ✔️
Beware those you know & be open minded to a man who has a rough past. 😉🖤🔥
October 7, 2023
I was given the ARC of this book and loved it. While I wish the story stayed the same as the previous book, I truly did enjoy reading Rhea’s story. It was a very easy read but the story line made me want to keep reading. I finished it in 2 days.
The MC’s were interesting and everything coming out in the end was great. I wish there were a little more drama or time between the two but it still was a great read.
The MC’s were interesting and everything coming out in the end was great. I wish there were a little more drama or time between the two but it still was a great read.
August 13, 2023
I devoured this book in 24 hours!
The concept of the Grimm Academy world was pretty neat along with the unique magic. It was refreshing to read something new, especially when it came to the MMC. The dialog between main characters was also very enjoyable! The story was set up great. The mystery behind everything held my attention, and I couldn't figure out who the villain of the story was. I didn't feel that the story was predictable. The secrets and lies being told kept you guessing. While I never really cared for the villain, I didn't guess that that character would be the villain in the end. Okay, and that ending was great!
The concept of the Grimm Academy world was pretty neat along with the unique magic. It was refreshing to read something new, especially when it came to the MMC. The dialog between main characters was also very enjoyable! The story was set up great. The mystery behind everything held my attention, and I couldn't figure out who the villain of the story was. I didn't feel that the story was predictable. The secrets and lies being told kept you guessing. While I never really cared for the villain, I didn't guess that that character would be the villain in the end. Okay, and that ending was great!
August 15, 2023
Okay overall it is a good read, and the story has a good basis to it. Great idea and the stalker element is very much something of intrigue. I feel like for me however there were several time jumps and parts that left me a bit confused. The characters could have been built up a little bit more and their stories explained a little more about why they were the way that they were. For example, at one part the author mentions Edgar as being not serious about his work as a journalist and he shows his uninterest throughout the book. But somehow, he got Assistant editor to the school news...I was a little lost. Would have loved to seen more of the character conflict between the FMC and the girl in the book who was supposed to be her rival, DRAMA! The plot is good, and you get to meet some interesting people and get introduced to some interesting ideals. It's a pretty decent read as a whole.
August 13, 2023
* I devoured this book in the span of 24 hours, it was 267 pages, fast-paced, attention-grabbing. I feel like there was a twist in almost every chapter. The reader's perception of the villain changed so often. it kept me on my toes, totally unpredictable. I really was up at 2 am reading this book and forcing myself to sleep. I was hooked from the first chapter and had so many questions. A good amount of lore. a good book for newbies to paranormal romance and morally grey MMCs. There was smut, about 2 to 3 chill peppers in my opinion, very good.
Always read trigger warnings before reading anything, there are a few that need to be added to the list (body dysmorphia, body shaming, negative self-talk, etc.), though the list covers most bases.
The artwork for this book was amazing. It had the cover, maps and visuals, and chapter headers. Just amazing. The art for the MMC was so hot.
Loved Rhea and Raven and Edgar. Synn is BF material idc idc.
I wished I could see more of Rhea's character development in this book, but it may come up in the next installment of the series idk. I also really wanna see more of the Synn and Rhea relationship dynamics.
*Arc for Honest Review
Always read trigger warnings before reading anything, there are a few that need to be added to the list (body dysmorphia, body shaming, negative self-talk, etc.), though the list covers most bases.
The artwork for this book was amazing. It had the cover, maps and visuals, and chapter headers. Just amazing. The art for the MMC was so hot.
Loved Rhea and Raven and Edgar. Synn is BF material idc idc.
I wished I could see more of Rhea's character development in this book, but it may come up in the next installment of the series idk. I also really wanna see more of the Synn and Rhea relationship dynamics.
*Arc for Honest Review
August 17, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book. I’m not sure why, but I didn’t resonate with any of the characters. I think the plot line was awesome, but the style of writing wasn’t really my cup of tea. I was also fairly confused at the beginning of the book. It seemed very YA but I didn’t think this was a YA book. I think I expected more smut based on the description as well. I think all the characters just needed to chill for a second and not be so quick to anger and maybe things wouldn’t have been so tough on them 😂 But I guess then there wouldn’t be a storyline lol. Idk, wasn’t bad or anything, just not fantastic. The ending was amazing though!
August 15, 2023
Just finished up this juicy little fantasy read! I was honored to receive an ARC of House of Lycan before it’s released on Amazon tomorrow! @lyra.forger knocked it out of the park. Think Harry Potter meets the ACOTAR world - you’ve got faes, shifters, vampires, AND MAGIC 🪄
.
.
Plot :🪄🪄🪄(.75) VERY good twist
Spice: 🌶️ (two juicy scenes 🥵)
Genre: fantasy 🧚🏼✨
Ease of reading: a bit hard to follow at times because of the timing changes between characters/chapters. Overall, the book was a win for me!
.
.
Favorite quote 😏: “I don’t really grandma to know I read books in which the word “cock” does not signify a male bird.”
.
.
Same Kitten, same.
.
.
Plot :🪄🪄🪄(.75) VERY good twist
Spice: 🌶️ (two juicy scenes 🥵)
Genre: fantasy 🧚🏼✨
Ease of reading: a bit hard to follow at times because of the timing changes between characters/chapters. Overall, the book was a win for me!
.
.
Favorite quote 😏: “I don’t really grandma to know I read books in which the word “cock” does not signify a male bird.”
.
.
Same Kitten, same.
August 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the build between Rhea and Synn and the twists that came up. Highly recommend and love that is stands alone from the other books set in this world!
August 16, 2023
Second book of the series, & wasn’t definitely not disappointed! Synn? Yes please. We all can agree that, “Touch me, I want you to touch me.” Was the greatest line of the book…right? Not just me.
August 15, 2023
I loveddd this book! I had the awesome opportunity of receiving the ARC of this book and I knowwww I need the physical copy. I read the first book right before going into the arc and I loved this series.
It took a little bit for me to get into it as I don’t read a lot of books like this but once I committed I fell in love and it left me grasping at straws for more!
It took a little bit for me to get into it as I don’t read a lot of books like this but once I committed I fell in love and it left me grasping at straws for more!
August 28, 2023
5 stars out of 5.
2 red peppers out of 5 spice.
**I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
House of Lycan is an adult stand alone, paranormal romance with slow burn enemies to lovers vibes and dual POV. It is set in the same world as Forgers other Originals of Grimm Academy, this time following Rhea Moran, a student of the House of Lycan branch of Grimm Academy. You do not need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this series (I haven't read them yet, but I will! I love paranormal academies!), however, Forger recommends it to help with understanding the world and background. Some things would just make more sense. I had no problem becoming engulfed in the world without having any knowledge from previous books, I think my biggest struggle was Forgers writing style of keeping things secret from the reader until a character reveals it to another character. No dramatic irony for you!
While the story is set in a paranormal academy setting, it's more like a college for 20 year olds. Rhea is in her last year of the academy at 23 year old, and Synn is 30 during the events of the book. So for all you adults who love the paranormal academy genre but can't read about 16 year olds giving head, now you can read about 23/30 year olds giving head.
I love love love that Lyra Forger makes her characters relatable. They have flaws. They have obsessions, negative emotions, negative reactions. They aren't Mary Sue's, and the story isn't just handed to them. Forger relates some of Rhea's struggles and negative traits to herself, using what she knows to fully flesh out the character of Rhea.
Synn is also a flawed character, but I can't help but point out that his story feels heavily inspired by Sirius Black in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Askaban, except that Synn isn't Rhea's godfather, he's closer in age to her, and he is very attractive. If you're looking for Sirus Black love interest vibes, this is it.
I think my biggest qualm, and only really, is due to Forger's writing choices. As I stated earlier, you won't know something a character knows until it's revealed to the other character. So, if Rhea knows something, it will be alluded to you, but it won't be revealed until Synn or another character knows - or the event plays out. It's not a fault to the writing, I just sometimes felt like I was lost and forgot something already explained or couldn't understand what the character was getting at. Then, as it would be revealed, I'd get the "Ahh!" moment. It's not bad, I just felt a little lost at times.
I do agree with another review, who expressed they'd like a bit more world building. That would be fun! But I bet pieces of information gets built in each of her books. This book focused on building the world of shifters and the House of Lycan. Unless I'm misunderstanding, the stories take place in a world where the Brothers Grimm fairytales are real, our world is real, but the story takes place in a paranormal exclusive setting, kind of like Hogwarts and Diagon Alley are in our world, but in their own at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I will be buying the rest of the books in the series. Paranormal academies are one of my favorite kind of genre settings. I love that this is an adult story though, with adult elements. I love how the characters seem real and have real feelings and insecurities. I'd love a bit more world building or time just enjoying the world, but that would slow down the story a degree. Highly recommend for fans of paranormal romance, or whoever needs a dose of Sirius Black.
Review of Lyra Forger herself:
Also, if you happen to receive emails from Lyra Forger, she is the absolute sweetest! I have never felt so appreciated as an ARC reader, and her emails just made me all the more excited to get to her book. Her emails made me all giddy inside. She understands that readers have busy lives, or they may not like the book, or they just may never get to the book. It released all the pressure off me, someone who has a bad habit of procrastinating or forgetting or usually just missing deadlines all together. With her mass emails being the only form of communication I've seen from her, she is an absolute treasure.
2 red peppers out of 5 spice.
**I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
House of Lycan is an adult stand alone, paranormal romance with slow burn enemies to lovers vibes and dual POV. It is set in the same world as Forgers other Originals of Grimm Academy, this time following Rhea Moran, a student of the House of Lycan branch of Grimm Academy. You do not need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this series (I haven't read them yet, but I will! I love paranormal academies!), however, Forger recommends it to help with understanding the world and background. Some things would just make more sense. I had no problem becoming engulfed in the world without having any knowledge from previous books, I think my biggest struggle was Forgers writing style of keeping things secret from the reader until a character reveals it to another character. No dramatic irony for you!
While the story is set in a paranormal academy setting, it's more like a college for 20 year olds. Rhea is in her last year of the academy at 23 year old, and Synn is 30 during the events of the book. So for all you adults who love the paranormal academy genre but can't read about 16 year olds giving head, now you can read about 23/30 year olds giving head.
I love love love that Lyra Forger makes her characters relatable. They have flaws. They have obsessions, negative emotions, negative reactions. They aren't Mary Sue's, and the story isn't just handed to them. Forger relates some of Rhea's struggles and negative traits to herself, using what she knows to fully flesh out the character of Rhea.
Synn is also a flawed character, but I can't help but point out that his story feels heavily inspired by Sirius Black in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Askaban, except that Synn isn't Rhea's godfather, he's closer in age to her, and he is very attractive. If you're looking for Sirus Black love interest vibes, this is it.
I think my biggest qualm, and only really, is due to Forger's writing choices. As I stated earlier, you won't know something a character knows until it's revealed to the other character. So, if Rhea knows something, it will be alluded to you, but it won't be revealed until Synn or another character knows - or the event plays out. It's not a fault to the writing, I just sometimes felt like I was lost and forgot something already explained or couldn't understand what the character was getting at. Then, as it would be revealed, I'd get the "Ahh!" moment. It's not bad, I just felt a little lost at times.
I do agree with another review, who expressed they'd like a bit more world building. That would be fun! But I bet pieces of information gets built in each of her books. This book focused on building the world of shifters and the House of Lycan. Unless I'm misunderstanding, the stories take place in a world where the Brothers Grimm fairytales are real, our world is real, but the story takes place in a paranormal exclusive setting, kind of like Hogwarts and Diagon Alley are in our world, but in their own at the same time.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I will be buying the rest of the books in the series. Paranormal academies are one of my favorite kind of genre settings. I love that this is an adult story though, with adult elements. I love how the characters seem real and have real feelings and insecurities. I'd love a bit more world building or time just enjoying the world, but that would slow down the story a degree. Highly recommend for fans of paranormal romance, or whoever needs a dose of Sirius Black.
Review of Lyra Forger herself:
Also, if you happen to receive emails from Lyra Forger, she is the absolute sweetest! I have never felt so appreciated as an ARC reader, and her emails just made me all the more excited to get to her book. Her emails made me all giddy inside. She understands that readers have busy lives, or they may not like the book, or they just may never get to the book. It released all the pressure off me, someone who has a bad habit of procrastinating or forgetting or usually just missing deadlines all together. With her mass emails being the only form of communication I've seen from her, she is an absolute treasure.
August 17, 2023
˗ˏˋ3.5 ★ ˎˊ˗
Lycans, Vampires, Faes, and other shifters in one world! Need I say more? The premise of Grimm Academy series having all these creatures in one world definitely grabbed my attention, especially since I don't recall having read any books before that features all these creatures in one setting (maybe 2 at most). House of Lycan, the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone, revolves around a Lycan FMC and a Fae MMC.
The story was interesting; I love the mystery surrounding it. It makes you do a double triple take on the theories swirling in your mind as you continue reading the book. I have grown to like almost all the characters, and I did enjoy the dynamics between them. However, I do wish there were a few more chapters; the ending felt rushed to me and left me with a few questions.
Although I did like the book, it felt like it lacked the world-building I needed. However, I did read the blurb of the first book in the series, which led me to think that most of the world-building likely occurred there. So, reading the first book might not be required, but I believe it would enhance your enjoyment of the narrative.
Spice Level 🌶️🌶️
Read trigger warnings before indulging yourself with reading this book albeit its not too graphic.
Thank you to Lyra for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review. Everything in this review has been written willing fully.
Since I read a proof copy of the book any grammatical errors did not impact the rating.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Rating and Spice Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
🌶️ Fade to black/Closed door/Implied
🌶️🌶️ Open door with minimal descriptions
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with significant descriptions and details. Light kinks
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with explicit descriptions. There are more scenes and are longer. Plot is still there.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Extremely explicit description. All possible kinks are present. There is more spice than plot.
Lycans, Vampires, Faes, and other shifters in one world! Need I say more? The premise of Grimm Academy series having all these creatures in one world definitely grabbed my attention, especially since I don't recall having read any books before that features all these creatures in one setting (maybe 2 at most). House of Lycan, the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone, revolves around a Lycan FMC and a Fae MMC.
The story was interesting; I love the mystery surrounding it. It makes you do a double triple take on the theories swirling in your mind as you continue reading the book. I have grown to like almost all the characters, and I did enjoy the dynamics between them. However, I do wish there were a few more chapters; the ending felt rushed to me and left me with a few questions.
Although I did like the book, it felt like it lacked the world-building I needed. However, I did read the blurb of the first book in the series, which led me to think that most of the world-building likely occurred there. So, reading the first book might not be required, but I believe it would enhance your enjoyment of the narrative.
Spice Level 🌶️🌶️
Read trigger warnings before indulging yourself with reading this book albeit its not too graphic.
Thank you to Lyra for the digital arc in exchange for an honest review. Everything in this review has been written willing fully.
Since I read a proof copy of the book any grammatical errors did not impact the rating.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
My Rating and Spice Scale:
5⭐ The book is perfect! I love everything about it
4.5⭐ I love the book and would highly recommend it. There might still be something small that I want from the book
4⭐It was entertaining. Not perfect but it hooked me big time. I would recommend it to anyone
3.5⭐ I liked the book but I have issues with some things. I would recommend it to those who enjoys the specific genre, writing style or author
3⭐ A not so bad book. I neither disliked or liked the book. It just didn't connect with me. I would recommend with reservations
2⭐ I had a hard time finishing the book. It's not for me and wouldn't recommend it
1⭐ I don't like it at all and would not recommend
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
🌶️ Fade to black/Closed door/Implied
🌶️🌶️ Open door with minimal descriptions
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with significant descriptions and details. Light kinks
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door with explicit descriptions. There are more scenes and are longer. Plot is still there.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Extremely explicit description. All possible kinks are present. There is more spice than plot.
March 1, 2024
I guess I never wrote my full review here. This book deserves more attention, partly because of the little details that differentiate the species.
“I want to scream, that’s what I want to do.” But her wolf goads her:
"I don’t give a fuck. Get your ass back there and show the man what we’re made of."
She also craves an endorphin rush but stops herself constantly, afraid to let her wolf out.
This is the last year at the academy, and Rhea, a wolf shifter, aims for a reporting internship, but her experience so far has been gossip columns. Her grandmother is not pleased.
Her grandmother deserves special attention. She is a woman we all want to become. Sure, she is old. But retirement is not in her vocabulary. She is fit, fashionable, and responsible. She just got promoted. I want to be her in my old age.
The male main character, Synn is an escaped convict from the equivalent of Alcatraz. Scarred, alone and unable to return to faerie, he blames Rhea for his incarceration. I don’t know why, but his own insecurities are one of the best scenes I have read:
“So when I finally tap the Tension Rune, my eyes immediately dart down, where my legs should be. I breathe a sigh of relief when I see that they’re not there.“
Gotcha. Now I cannot stop reading.
But no story is good without secondary characters. Edgar is the friend who likes to sabotage Rhea’s work after he recommends her. However dedicated Rhea might be as a journalist, she is actually terrible at it. Why? Because she cannot take orders. If assigned to cover the Chosen, who are like rock stars, she decides to research the escaped prisoner instead. It’s tragic. If only she could stick to her mission!
Rhea’s saving grace is that Synn is equally enthralled by her when she gets all bossy 😘. He stalks her; he brings murderous little gifts. He gives her numerous opportunities to gain that story.
Tropes:
⁃ Obsession
⁃ Dual POV
⁃ Love between two murderers?
⁃ Curvy Heroine
⁃ Spice near the end (that’s sex, to those in the know)
⁃ Standalone in a series
“I want to scream, that’s what I want to do.” But her wolf goads her:
"I don’t give a fuck. Get your ass back there and show the man what we’re made of."
She also craves an endorphin rush but stops herself constantly, afraid to let her wolf out.
This is the last year at the academy, and Rhea, a wolf shifter, aims for a reporting internship, but her experience so far has been gossip columns. Her grandmother is not pleased.
Her grandmother deserves special attention. She is a woman we all want to become. Sure, she is old. But retirement is not in her vocabulary. She is fit, fashionable, and responsible. She just got promoted. I want to be her in my old age.
The male main character, Synn is an escaped convict from the equivalent of Alcatraz. Scarred, alone and unable to return to faerie, he blames Rhea for his incarceration. I don’t know why, but his own insecurities are one of the best scenes I have read:
“So when I finally tap the Tension Rune, my eyes immediately dart down, where my legs should be. I breathe a sigh of relief when I see that they’re not there.“
Gotcha. Now I cannot stop reading.
But no story is good without secondary characters. Edgar is the friend who likes to sabotage Rhea’s work after he recommends her. However dedicated Rhea might be as a journalist, she is actually terrible at it. Why? Because she cannot take orders. If assigned to cover the Chosen, who are like rock stars, she decides to research the escaped prisoner instead. It’s tragic. If only she could stick to her mission!
Rhea’s saving grace is that Synn is equally enthralled by her when she gets all bossy 😘. He stalks her; he brings murderous little gifts. He gives her numerous opportunities to gain that story.
Tropes:
⁃ Obsession
⁃ Dual POV
⁃ Love between two murderers?
⁃ Curvy Heroine
⁃ Spice near the end (that’s sex, to those in the know)
⁃ Standalone in a series
August 17, 2023
I was fortunate enough to be accepted to read an Arc of this book. It is the first book I’ve read by Lyra Forger and the first time I’ve done any arc reads.
This is the second book in The Grimm Academy series and is labeled as a stand alone so you don’t have to read the first book in the series in order to read this. This book gave me major Haunting Adeline (Not as dark though and mainly just in the beginning) , Gilmore girls (specifically because Rhea is an aspiring journalist.) , and Harry Potter: Prisoner of Azkaban vibes.
I loved this book. I loved the characters and the storyline grabbed my attention, not making me want to put the book down once I got started. I absolutely loved both Rhea and Synn’s character development throughout the whole story. Definitely wasn’t expecting that plot twist at the end which I enjoyed thoroughly, usually I’m able to figure out how books end before finishing which wasn’t the case in this one. I loved the budding friendship that Rhea has with Raven, who quickly became one of my favorite characters.
Reason for 4 stars instead of 5:
- The beginning was kind of confusing at first. Especially when Rhea was talking to her wolf. It was kind of hard to figure out when Rhea was talking to her wolf and when she was thinking to herself at first.
- I also felt like even though this is a stand-alone and you don’t have to read the first book, the first book (House of Ydril) definitely gives more details about the trails that is mentioned occasionally in this book. Nothing too major but I definitely think it’d be beneficial to read the first one if you want to know more about that.
Other than that, I definitely finished this book wanting to read more of Rhea and Synn’s story!
January 15, 2024
This is Rhea and Synn's story - that happens to take place at Grimm Academy but really doesn't intersect with hardly any other characters or events there. They are passing ghosts and shadows, irrelevant to Rhea and Synn as they pursue their goals which gradually come to align with one another. I did like that they interacted and we got to see a relationship develop between them as the story progressed unraveling the mysteries of a brutal past and terrifying prophesy that ties them together. Lots of time skips and scene jumps, situations with little explanation. Makes for a fast, compelling read, but sometimes slightly disorientated. Watch the details. I would have like to have seen a bit more of the other people involved in the story. There was potential for a much richer story here.
Strong HP fanfic vibes again this time of book #3....the one with the unjustly imprisoned fellow and the horrible prison with demented wardens. I did like the twists Forger put on some of the concepts and wish that some of the things started with the prison were followed up on but that wasn't the big twist climax resolution to the book! Very introspective book with Rhea coming to terms with who she is. Loved Raven - wish we got more of her story too.
This is the second book in in the Originals of Grimm Academy, but functions as a complete standalone. Other than the shared setting, there is no overlap between the books. I'm not even sure if it is the same school year or a different one.
Strong HP fanfic vibes again this time of book #3....the one with the unjustly imprisoned fellow and the horrible prison with demented wardens. I did like the twists Forger put on some of the concepts and wish that some of the things started with the prison were followed up on but that wasn't the big twist climax resolution to the book! Very introspective book with Rhea coming to terms with who she is. Loved Raven - wish we got more of her story too.
This is the second book in in the Originals of Grimm Academy, but functions as a complete standalone. Other than the shared setting, there is no overlap between the books. I'm not even sure if it is the same school year or a different one.
August 14, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
This is the second book in the series and can easily be read as a stand-alone but I’m glad I read the first. I was able to gather more background information about the academy and how it’s run.
This story grabbed my attention right off the bat with the 🥀. I wanted to find out more about who Synn is and his story.
Rhea and her wolf had me laughing so much in the beginning. I enjoyed how it displayed the two different sides of Rhea. While she’s more self-conscious and follows the rules. The wolf is more of a risk taker, driven, and won’t back down.
Synn is on a mission for revenge after being locked away. But as we know, there is always more to the story!
Raven was my absolute favorite character. I knew I was going to love her the second Rhea met her. I’m so glad at the end she got what she’s been dreaming of for yours. It made her story more special.
This book kept me guessing on who was behind everything. So many twists and turns that I could not put the book down. The slow burn was nice but I’m a lover of spice and I’m glad we got some. I did want a little bit more but that’s just me.😏
Thank you Lyra Forger for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team. As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts.
This is the second book in the series and can easily be read as a stand-alone but I’m glad I read the first. I was able to gather more background information about the academy and how it’s run.
This story grabbed my attention right off the bat with the 🥀. I wanted to find out more about who Synn is and his story.
Rhea and her wolf had me laughing so much in the beginning. I enjoyed how it displayed the two different sides of Rhea. While she’s more self-conscious and follows the rules. The wolf is more of a risk taker, driven, and won’t back down.
Synn is on a mission for revenge after being locked away. But as we know, there is always more to the story!
Raven was my absolute favorite character. I knew I was going to love her the second Rhea met her. I’m so glad at the end she got what she’s been dreaming of for yours. It made her story more special.
This book kept me guessing on who was behind everything. So many twists and turns that I could not put the book down. The slow burn was nice but I’m a lover of spice and I’m glad we got some. I did want a little bit more but that’s just me.😏
Thank you Lyra Forger for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team. As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts.
August 17, 2023
Thank you to Lyra Forger for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall I enjoyed the book, this is the second in a series which the author notes you can read as a standalone. However, I think reading House of Ydril first can help fill out the world building that is lacking a little in House of Lycan.
This book is about Rhea who is a shapeshifter but she's been suppressing her wolf since she was a child. Then we have Synn who is an escaped prisoner who blames Rhea for his imprisonment.
Somewhere along the way Synn believes she didn't frame him for the crime but I didn't pick up that moment. He was hating her one moment then loving her the next. I would have loved more from his POV also. Rhea was never really afraid of Synn even though he was a murdering escaped prisoner.
This story is based in The Grimm Academy but there isn't a lot of explanation of the school and how it works. And not much about the different magic elements - which may be explained more in House of Ydril.
There are a couple of spicy scenes that were good but definitely left me wanting more... But, I didn't fall in love with the characters and wanted to feel more emotions, more tension, more drama.
Overall I enjoyed the book, this is the second in a series which the author notes you can read as a standalone. However, I think reading House of Ydril first can help fill out the world building that is lacking a little in House of Lycan.
This book is about Rhea who is a shapeshifter but she's been suppressing her wolf since she was a child. Then we have Synn who is an escaped prisoner who blames Rhea for his imprisonment.
Somewhere along the way Synn believes she didn't frame him for the crime but I didn't pick up that moment. He was hating her one moment then loving her the next. I would have loved more from his POV also. Rhea was never really afraid of Synn even though he was a murdering escaped prisoner.
This story is based in The Grimm Academy but there isn't a lot of explanation of the school and how it works. And not much about the different magic elements - which may be explained more in House of Ydril.
There are a couple of spicy scenes that were good but definitely left me wanting more... But, I didn't fall in love with the characters and wanted to feel more emotions, more tension, more drama.
August 29, 2023
Received an EArc for an honest review via the author.
Rating : 3-3.5
Spice: 2ish?
I absolutely love the newsletter and the authors energy, her marketing has been solid for this novel, and the organization for the group and everything with it had been so exciting to be a part of.
I finished off this one this morning and I’ll be honest I sat for a bit in my thoughts on it weighing how I’d rate it.
It’s not terrible? The writing style feels not super complex, it’s an easy read, characters though are so so where I didn’t hate nor love them was just there for the ride with them honestly.
The storyline itself can be read as a stand-alone however there’s implied things here and there within that you won’t have much a clue over if not have read the others, so I was mildly in the dark having not read the first and jumping into this one based on the aspect it was ok to do so.
I may reread and update review AFTER I’ve maybe read both book 1 and this one though. Just to see if it’s more enjoyable combined for more lore content.
I’m super greatful for the opportunity and will keep an eye out for further stories in the series to see if I enjoy them more and this was just one I didn’t jive with.
Rating : 3-3.5
Spice: 2ish?
I absolutely love the newsletter and the authors energy, her marketing has been solid for this novel, and the organization for the group and everything with it had been so exciting to be a part of.
I finished off this one this morning and I’ll be honest I sat for a bit in my thoughts on it weighing how I’d rate it.
It’s not terrible? The writing style feels not super complex, it’s an easy read, characters though are so so where I didn’t hate nor love them was just there for the ride with them honestly.
The storyline itself can be read as a stand-alone however there’s implied things here and there within that you won’t have much a clue over if not have read the others, so I was mildly in the dark having not read the first and jumping into this one based on the aspect it was ok to do so.
I may reread and update review AFTER I’ve maybe read both book 1 and this one though. Just to see if it’s more enjoyable combined for more lore content.
I’m super greatful for the opportunity and will keep an eye out for further stories in the series to see if I enjoy them more and this was just one I didn’t jive with.
December 12, 2023
***BOOK REVIEW***
Name: House of Lycan
Author: Lyra Forger
Rate: 4/5 🌟
~Another Gromm Academy story!!! Yet again this one is a standalone. So if you did not read the book before this one it’s okay! Here we focus on the house of Lycan, so where the werewolves reside. The FMC is Rhea and her wolf and how she is important to complete this prophecy in which Rhea is unaware of at the time but later connected the dots and realized that she is the main key to fulfill this. The plot on this is very good because it kept me wanting to know who really kept her in the dark till she got older to claim her destiny. When she was younger she did some damage in her village that she did not remember at the time but later in the chapters she recalls what happened. SynnMMC is the one who took the blame for this damage and was locked up until he escaped. But there is so much more to his story. He tells Rhea that he is there to protect her in a way for her not to claim her destiny since it will cause destruction. But not sure why but I also felt like he is probably Rhea’s mate? Not sure but that’s the vibe I got. They both have this attraction to each other. The spice level in these books are a 1 nothing more. This is like YA Fantasy to be honest, but it was a good read to pass the time.
Name: House of Lycan
Author: Lyra Forger
Rate: 4/5 🌟
~Another Gromm Academy story!!! Yet again this one is a standalone. So if you did not read the book before this one it’s okay! Here we focus on the house of Lycan, so where the werewolves reside. The FMC is Rhea and her wolf and how she is important to complete this prophecy in which Rhea is unaware of at the time but later connected the dots and realized that she is the main key to fulfill this. The plot on this is very good because it kept me wanting to know who really kept her in the dark till she got older to claim her destiny. When she was younger she did some damage in her village that she did not remember at the time but later in the chapters she recalls what happened. SynnMMC is the one who took the blame for this damage and was locked up until he escaped. But there is so much more to his story. He tells Rhea that he is there to protect her in a way for her not to claim her destiny since it will cause destruction. But not sure why but I also felt like he is probably Rhea’s mate? Not sure but that’s the vibe I got. They both have this attraction to each other. The spice level in these books are a 1 nothing more. This is like YA Fantasy to be honest, but it was a good read to pass the time.
August 17, 2023
ARC REVIEW.
3.5/5 - Rating
2.5/5 - Chili Peppers
I went into this book blind, not reading anything along this vein of fantasy before. That being said, I really liked it and am interested to read more fantasy romance like this! I did read this book as a standalone without reading House of Ydril first and so I did have some questions throughout about certain things that I know, I would've known had I read the first of the series. I guess I'm reading this serious backwards because I did like House of Lycan enough to read House of Ydril and the upcoming, House of Lilith when it comes out!
I definitely got Harry Potter with spice vibes here. One of the only things I didn't like is lack of backstory. There's backstory but, I'm nosey so I would've liked even more backstory. It's a great, fast paced read with no downtime or anything like that to bore you with. Each chapter gets to the points and leads to a really well written ending. The twist toward the end is *chefs kiss* and the spice is written nicely for those who don't like explicit sex scenes.
Great job to Lyra! Can't wait to read more!
3.5/5 - Rating
2.5/5 - Chili Peppers
I went into this book blind, not reading anything along this vein of fantasy before. That being said, I really liked it and am interested to read more fantasy romance like this! I did read this book as a standalone without reading House of Ydril first and so I did have some questions throughout about certain things that I know, I would've known had I read the first of the series. I guess I'm reading this serious backwards because I did like House of Lycan enough to read House of Ydril and the upcoming, House of Lilith when it comes out!
I definitely got Harry Potter with spice vibes here. One of the only things I didn't like is lack of backstory. There's backstory but, I'm nosey so I would've liked even more backstory. It's a great, fast paced read with no downtime or anything like that to bore you with. Each chapter gets to the points and leads to a really well written ending. The twist toward the end is *chefs kiss* and the spice is written nicely for those who don't like explicit sex scenes.
Great job to Lyra! Can't wait to read more!
August 13, 2023
This is the first book I read from Lyra Forger. It is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
I absolutely loved this book. The FMC, Rhea, has her insecurities just like all people, and it was refreshing to have a character that didn't come across as perfect. I loved going on this journey with Rhea to discover her importance to the story. I also loved the MMC Synn. He was angry and for good reason. It was nice to see his character develop and to see why his character connected with Rhea.
I do wish there was more on Synn's back story and why he was so invested. With that being said, it does not take away from the story.
If you are new to fantasy or stories with mystical creatures, this book is a great starting point. It doesn't overwhelm you with information, and it provides you with enough info to understand what is going on.
I look forward to reading the first book and the next book in the series. If you like a good shifter romance story with a bit of mystery and adventure, this book is definitely for you.
I absolutely loved this book. The FMC, Rhea, has her insecurities just like all people, and it was refreshing to have a character that didn't come across as perfect. I loved going on this journey with Rhea to discover her importance to the story. I also loved the MMC Synn. He was angry and for good reason. It was nice to see his character develop and to see why his character connected with Rhea.
I do wish there was more on Synn's back story and why he was so invested. With that being said, it does not take away from the story.
If you are new to fantasy or stories with mystical creatures, this book is a great starting point. It doesn't overwhelm you with information, and it provides you with enough info to understand what is going on.
I look forward to reading the first book and the next book in the series. If you like a good shifter romance story with a bit of mystery and adventure, this book is definitely for you.
September 4, 2023
I’m ARC reviewing this books and this might be my fault for not realizing this is book 2.
I’m seeing that this can be a standalone, but as I’m reading and there are these things going on, I found myself wondering what sort of context I’m missing. I kept expecting to find it in the upcoming portion but it never came. I’m unsure if this is because of the story itself, or if I did actually need to read book one to find this story more fulfilling and to put the pieces together.
The pre warning says this book holds dark themes and is spicy, but I’d rate this maybe a 2 of 5 on the spice scale, and didn’t find the book overly dark. (There is a gruesome and detailed slaying of a fawn and a spider in the same chapter early on….could be related to this)
The world the author built was really unique, and I love that all kinds of creature are accepted at Grimm. I did like each of the individual characters, but I found the pacing and prose in this story to be awkward, which partnered with the confusing context above, is what made me rate it a 3-3.5. It was difficult to work through at times.
I’m seeing that this can be a standalone, but as I’m reading and there are these things going on, I found myself wondering what sort of context I’m missing. I kept expecting to find it in the upcoming portion but it never came. I’m unsure if this is because of the story itself, or if I did actually need to read book one to find this story more fulfilling and to put the pieces together.
The pre warning says this book holds dark themes and is spicy, but I’d rate this maybe a 2 of 5 on the spice scale, and didn’t find the book overly dark. (There is a gruesome and detailed slaying of a fawn and a spider in the same chapter early on….could be related to this)
The world the author built was really unique, and I love that all kinds of creature are accepted at Grimm. I did like each of the individual characters, but I found the pacing and prose in this story to be awkward, which partnered with the confusing context above, is what made me rate it a 3-3.5. It was difficult to work through at times.
August 15, 2023
I loved this book. It is said to be able to be a stand alone as well as part of the series. The reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is because although the beginning grabs your attention really well it’s hard to figure out some things that you should have learned in the first book. So definitely better to read it as part of the series instead of a stand alone. The story has a great pace to it. Spice level I would say maybe 2/5 at most. It’s tasteful. I love the main character and her little side kick Raven. I can’t wait to see what book 3 holds. It’s definitely worth the read if you like magic, action and romance. Although it is a shifter book I’ll say that in regards to spice it is done so well. The shifter part isn’t overly sexualized like some books do so that was nice. It made it better in my opinion as I feel like if it was made into a sexual thing it would have taken away from the story. Overall great read.
August 16, 2023
Great plot, worth the read!
I absolutely love the storyline.
I honestly feel it could’ve been executed a little better with more detail, but it is worth a read, nonetheless.
The quality of writing was giving Wattpad flashbacks. A lot of bland repetitive phrases. However, even extremely popular authors are guilty of that. Grammatical errors, lacking explanation, and slightly random at points.
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE
I promise you, if you read through all of that, it’s a cute book. Even though this is a standalone, I HIGHLY recommend reading House of Ydril first. I really hope Lyra expands on this. I wish this book was longer, more detailed, more world building, and a LOT more Synn. I loved where she was going with this, there just wasn’t enough.
I hope that makes sense. I definitely recommend reading it for the story itself 🖤 I will be adding the next book to my TBR.
I absolutely love the storyline.
I honestly feel it could’ve been executed a little better with more detail, but it is worth a read, nonetheless.
The quality of writing was giving Wattpad flashbacks. A lot of bland repetitive phrases. However, even extremely popular authors are guilty of that. Grammatical errors, lacking explanation, and slightly random at points.
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE
I promise you, if you read through all of that, it’s a cute book. Even though this is a standalone, I HIGHLY recommend reading House of Ydril first. I really hope Lyra expands on this. I wish this book was longer, more detailed, more world building, and a LOT more Synn. I loved where she was going with this, there just wasn’t enough.
I hope that makes sense. I definitely recommend reading it for the story itself 🖤 I will be adding the next book to my TBR.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews