POE Prophecies: The Black Cat

POE Prophecies #2

by P. Anastasia

Trust no one.

My name's Aidan Grey. I'm a twelve-year-old student at P.O.E. Academy, where we study the works of Edgar Allan Poe. Since joining a super-secret study group, I’ve learned new things and met new people. But something doesn’t smell right, and it’s not last week’s leftover sandwich in my book bag.

I’ve got a hunch that there’s more than meets the eye to this Vincent guy. So what if he has a powerful Kindred and can move about a room like a ghost? He’s friends with my cousin, and my cousin should be expelled for things he’s said about The Prophet.

Lenore thinks Vincent’s one of us, but anyone who’s friends with Bertrand can’t be trusted.
I’ll do whatever it takes to expose him for what he is.

Genres: Fantasy, Audiobook, Young Adult, Middle Grade, Fiction

134 pages, Paperback

Published January 2, 2024

About the author

P. ANASTASIA'S fresh take on storytelling resonates with darkness, charm, and passion--the embodiment of her unique writing style. Ensnared by the craft in childhood, she attempted her first book at age eleven. While working toward her college degree, she wrote news and editorial columns for two campus newspapers. After graduating with a degree in communications and spending a year studying abroad in Kofu, Japan, she followed her heart to her publishing aspirations. On the side, she serves as a professional voice talent for radio, television, and audio books. P. Anastasia is the author of nine novels: Exile of the Sky God, the Fluorescence series, Fates Aflame, Fates Awoken, and the historical-paranormal romances, Dark Diary & Grave Burden.

Follow P. Anastasia on
Instagram @ FluorescentOnes
www.facebook.com/FluorescenceBooks

She firmly believes being a writer is not about writing what you want, but writing what needs to be written and faithfully retelling the stories of your characters no matter how uncomfortable they may make you.

"Write the truth!"

Reviews

[Lavender · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am enjoying this series. It is aimed at young readers, but it is still a fun read for me as I am a fan of Poe. I like the world building and characters.

[Mark Curcio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two is definitely gaining steam!

I’m really enjoying the way the plot is coming together—there’s more momentum and purpose now, and it’s pulling me in. The incantations are especially fun to follow and try to decipher; they add a layer of depth that makes the magic system feel both mysterious and engaging. This one feels like it’s hitting its stride.

[Colleen Villasenor · Rating 3 out of 5]

This seems like a series that could hook a young reader. It has magic, mystery, and middle-school angst. Each book leads into the next in true serial fashion. The author has really studied Poe for inspiration. She has mentioned many works by Poe that I was not familiar with, and I can feel my tbr growing

[Valerie Moody · Rating 4 out of 5]

P. Anastasia’s Poe Prophecies: The Black Cat reimagines one of Edgar Allan Poe’s most disturbing short stories, turning its themes of guilt, madness, and the supernatural into a fast-paced gothic adventure. Where Poe’s original tale is chilling in its psychological intensity, Anastasia expands the narrative into a broader world of prophecy, mystery, and suspense, making it both fresh and accessible for modern readers.

The novel succeeds most in its atmosphere—dark, unsettling, and layered with tension. Anastasia keeps the essence of Poe’s exploration of guilt and obsession while weaving in new elements that propel the story forward. The pacing is quick and engaging, which makes the book hard to put down, though at times it leans more toward action than the creeping dread of Poe’s classic.

Characters are compelling and well-drawn, especially in their struggles with morality and the shadows of their own choices. While the psychological depth may not fully match the intensity of Poe’s original, Anastasia’s interpretation provides a more adventurous take that will appeal to teens and fans of gothic fantasy alike.

Overall, The Black Cat is a strong installment in the Poe Prophecies series—darkly imaginative, suspenseful, and respectful of its source material, while offering a new lens for today’s readers.

[Sandra Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun series this time around Aidan and Lenore are learning new skills by professor Grendel but also learning more about the disbeliever. This time around, they’re learning the true purpose and wanting to stop the disbeliever also with the fear that they may know someone who is a disbeliever. I have to say I kind of figured out who might be one but watching them go through their own process. It was fun. The biggest question I seem to have is will Aidan get a kindred lol

[Angela Robinett · Rating 2.75 out of 5]

I wish I would’ve found this series when I was younger. They’re delightfully spooky and not at all creepy. Simple and not too detailed. Perfect for a middle schooler. Aidan I at a special school specializing in Edgar Allen Poe and his writing. This series is super cute. The author takes Poe’s writing and makes it real in this world. Secrets and mysterious things happen at the Academy. If you like gothic atmospheres this one is for you

[LuAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in this series picks up where the first left off. And it doesn’t miss a beat. The intrigue continues and it’s just as fun to read as book 1.
In this book, the author includes lines from some of the more obscure writings of Poe, such as Evening Star, The Bells, Fairy-Land and more, along with some she uses in the first book. I think even readers who aren’t a fan of Poe will like this series and they may even become fans of Edgar Allan Poe.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping tale that is in league with the Percy Jackson series, that focuses on those who seek to dive deeper into Edgar Allen Poe's works, or as the characters call him "the Prophet". I can't wait to see where this series takes us in Aiden Grey's story of self discovery and reflection through his first year in the academy and beyond. I cannot wait for book 6.

[Jennifer Denney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aiden and Lenore are back!! This book is a direct continuation of the last and our kids have a lot of work going for them. Bertrum is being Bertrum and not enjoying POE academy. Aiden and Lenore are now taking part in special classes and I live for it. The main one is Vincent, an older student, in the classes and, but bum bum a friend of Bertrum. A fun read overall.

[Liam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was skeptical of starting this new book, given the first book of this series left me wondering, given no real conclusion.

I expect all of the books in this series to follow the pattern, but I was pleasantly surprised by this book, adding an element of intrigue, deeper lore, and a new threat to our rag tag little group of friends. I look forward to Book 3.

[AM · Rating 5 out of 5]

*The Poe Prophecies: The Black Cat* by P. Anastasia is everything a sequel should be—darker, deeper, and even more captivating than the first. Anastasia takes the chilling essence of Poe’s original tale and transforms it into a modern gothic masterpiece filled with suspense, emotion, and jaw-dropping twists.

From the first page, the atmosphere is electric. The tension builds masterfully as secrets unravel and new layers of the prophecy come to light. The characters feel raw and real—flawed, haunted, and impossible not to root for. Anastasia’s prose is exquisite, rich with haunting imagery and sharp dialogue that makes every scene pulse with intensity.

What truly sets *The Black Cat* apart is how it balances horror and heart. Beneath the darkness lies a story about guilt, redemption, and the power of facing one’s inner demons. By the end, you’re left breathless and eager for more.

An absolute must-read for fans of gothic thrillers, psychological suspense, and literary reimaginings. P. Anastasia has once again proven herself a master of dark storytelling.

[Danni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another series I was very excited to carry on, and decided to pick up again. I really enjoy this story, the world it builds and the way it uses the stories of Edgar Allen Poe to intertwine with the magic system and the happenings in the book. Such a fun idea and I’m very glad I came across this series and am now continuing it.

[Jenna Rosenfeld · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick an interesting read. This boom extends the story in a fun and interesting way. I am continuing the series to see if I want to add it to my classroom library. So far, it seems like a winner

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is really picking up in this second book and we get some more information on the different characters. I like that so far the books seem to end in a way that lead seamlessly right into the next one.

[Billi Hoyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Friend or Foe

This Series is a page turner, cannot put down, an excited to see what they unveil next!
These students are really unique characters. I am excited to learn all about their extra talents.

[it’s me; J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still mom approved reading for my preteen. The story continues and what they thought was “clear & present danger” they got all wrong and oh how the plot has shifted and has some excitement toward the end of this one… no one to the next

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although im there wasn't as much information as Book #1, this book still moves fast and gives you a little more into into the world. It still ends on a xliff hanger. This time it was more of a rising action point. I love how each book is a story plot point. Onto the next!

[Myranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very fun, quick read. Excited to continue the series!

[Mira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant story by P. Anastasia!

[Danni · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kindle. Book 2 in Series.

[Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might be old but enjoying this series

[Marc · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not as good as I thought it would be. When I first heard about this series it really sounded interesting. Unfortunately it is just a retread of the Harry Potter series. Not worth it.

[Christina Stover · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this series on a road trip with my sons, 11 and 14, and they found it fascinating.

[Bree Hay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m 30 years old, and am enjoying this series about 12-year-olds immensely!

[Mary Kay Dugan · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is the 2nd book in the Poe Prophecies series, another great read that I finished in 1 day. I'm thoroughly enjoying the series and highly recommend it!

[InexactEarth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Solid sequel that builds on the first. Story is definitely picking up and getting intriguing!

[Jenell Klinedinst · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the books, enjoyed the characters. excited for next book

[Kayla Detty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again I was hooked from the very beginning and I can't wait to read the next book. I love that it has you wondering what is going to be discovered next!

[Tinamarie Reiber · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fast read.

[Terry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another quick read without much substance. It felt like the story had barely unfolded and the book ended. The series is definitely intended for a younger audience but it doesn’t have the depth of characters or creative storytelling of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series. It’s entertaining enough to pass the time if no other audiobooks are available.