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The Ivy Institute #1
Tender Thorns
Nestled in the shadows of the Mori Forest lies The Ivy Institute. It may look like something out of a fairytale, but if the rumors are true, it’s where nightmares reign.
The only way to get into the elite facility is by invitation and, once received, it’s impossible to refuse.
They were never supposed to know I existed, yet here I am, walking toward the only place that might be more dangerous to me than where I grew up.
Secrets shroud the institute and its inhabitants, but I have secrets too. Secrets that will get me killed… or worse.
I guess I’m about to find out.
Please Tender Thorns is a dark academia whychoose romance novel intended for mature audiences.
The only way to get into the elite facility is by invitation and, once received, it’s impossible to refuse.
They were never supposed to know I existed, yet here I am, walking toward the only place that might be more dangerous to me than where I grew up.
Secrets shroud the institute and its inhabitants, but I have secrets too. Secrets that will get me killed… or worse.
I guess I’m about to find out.
Please Tender Thorns is a dark academia whychoose romance novel intended for mature audiences.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2024
2085 people are currently reading
2658 people want to read
About the author
Albany Walker
33 books2,095 followersAlbany lives in Michigan where she's happily married to her high school sweetheart. She spends most of her time juggling her four children's extracurricular activities, with her nose stuck in a book. When not reading you can find her writing her very own book boyfriends. Albany's passion is writing romance with real characters that are far from perfect, but always seem to find their own happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
June 20, 2024
75% in and only 4 days have passed since Briar reached the academy.
_____
Completed book
I had hoped that this would be an author who chose to break the formula of other MMC's in why-choose novels, but alas she was not.
We meet Ziv who is a massive a-hole towards Briar, recognizes that he is one, and yet doesn't do anything to soften his stance towards her. This is before they decide to bond and AFTER he learns all about the abuse and neglect that she has gone through. He orders her around like a child, forces her to eat like a child, tells her to stay like a dog and overall is just a weak man.
And we don't even get to know about Kage because he is just as dickish towards her. The FMC even recognizes that she is weak and does nothing to become mentally and emotionally stronger because no one allows her to explore who she possibly could be.
The Cliffhanger was a bad choice. The author doesn't seem to know how to advance a plot without giving minute and unnecessary details.
_____
Completed book
I had hoped that this would be an author who chose to break the formula of other MMC's in why-choose novels, but alas she was not.
We meet Ziv who is a massive a-hole towards Briar, recognizes that he is one, and yet doesn't do anything to soften his stance towards her. This is before they decide to bond and AFTER he learns all about the abuse and neglect that she has gone through. He orders her around like a child, forces her to eat like a child, tells her to stay like a dog and overall is just a weak man.
And we don't even get to know about Kage because he is just as dickish towards her. The FMC even recognizes that she is weak and does nothing to become mentally and emotionally stronger because no one allows her to explore who she possibly could be.
The Cliffhanger was a bad choice. The author doesn't seem to know how to advance a plot without giving minute and unnecessary details.
June 22, 2024
I’m not sure if I’ve ever read a fantasy book with absolutely zero worldbuilding. I’ve read the whole book and still know nothing about the academy, any student’s name besides Kage, no idea about gods, fallen gods, and what types of power people have or how they got them, no clue what the games are that they’re training for… I feel like this could be a really good book, but it’s sorely lacking in the details you need to really get sucked into the story.
Briar is weak and basically pointless. Ziv is mostly a jerk. Kage is also a jerk and gets very little page time. It’s a really strange setup for a why choose book, and I’m not invested in their relationships at all. I also have no clue what that ending was, and the weird cliffhanger isn’t enough to make me want to read more 15 months from now.
Briar is weak and basically pointless. Ziv is mostly a jerk. Kage is also a jerk and gets very little page time. It’s a really strange setup for a why choose book, and I’m not invested in their relationships at all. I also have no clue what that ending was, and the weird cliffhanger isn’t enough to make me want to read more 15 months from now.
June 22, 2024
OMG
Seriously love Albany Walker’s books and I knew I had to give some serious reading time to this one!
So many secrets still to be revealed, so much we don’t know.
Briar is sent to an academy that trains the best of the best - but Briar has a unique power which she has been abused for for years. This is her story. It’s rife with intrigue, drama, lust, double crossing and a mega cliffhanger!
Can’t wait I til the next book!
Seriously love Albany Walker’s books and I knew I had to give some serious reading time to this one!
So many secrets still to be revealed, so much we don’t know.
Briar is sent to an academy that trains the best of the best - but Briar has a unique power which she has been abused for for years. This is her story. It’s rife with intrigue, drama, lust, double crossing and a mega cliffhanger!
Can’t wait I til the next book!
August 6, 2024
Well, that was a fast and uneventful read.
Nothing happens but I can't really give it 2 stars as I reserve this rating for books that are plain bad or for those with squandered potential. And this story is...ok. Frankly, it didn't make me feel anything and I am used to butterflies from Albany Walker's books.
It's just fine. Something to pass the time though there are more useful endeavors one could engage.
Spoiler: there's nothing "dark academia" about this - I don't count the schoolbuilding where the plot (what plot?) takes place.
Nothing happens but I can't really give it 2 stars as I reserve this rating for books that are plain bad or for those with squandered potential. And this story is...ok. Frankly, it didn't make me feel anything and I am used to butterflies from Albany Walker's books.
It's just fine. Something to pass the time though there are more useful endeavors one could engage.
Spoiler: there's nothing "dark academia" about this - I don't count the schoolbuilding where the plot (what plot?) takes place.
September 13, 2024
2,5 stars
I liked the start of the book but that was about it. The book got worse sadly, the fml was saying all the time that she was weak and a nobody like okay we have heard that. And the two guys where either broody, an ass or stalking the fml . Like maybe do something and figure out some shit since the fml is everyones target
I liked the start of the book but that was about it. The book got worse sadly, the fml was saying all the time that she was weak and a nobody like okay we have heard that. And the two guys where either broody, an ass or stalking the fml . Like maybe do something and figure out some shit since the fml is everyones target
July 18, 2024
*sigh*
June 23, 2024
I typically like this author’s books but was disappointed in this one. First Briar is almost childlike in her behavior and thinking. She constantly reminds both MMCs that she’s weak and not worthy. And her thinking didn’t change much throughout the book. There’s nothing about Ziv or Kage’s behavior that’s attractive to me. Ziv just wants Briar to follow him around and do whatever he says. He talks to her like she’s a child. He left her for a couple of days and forgot that she needed to eat and also didn’t know where the bathroom is. Kage doesn’t do anything that makes Briar want to be with him. And he spends his time trying to stay away from her. His behavior towards her is very passive. We barely get to know these characters.
The plot dragged and the cliffhanger went in a strange direction after dropping a brand new character in the very last paragraphs. I don’t care enough about these three to read the next book.
The plot dragged and the cliffhanger went in a strange direction after dropping a brand new character in the very last paragraphs. I don’t care enough about these three to read the next book.
December 8, 2024
Loved this, but beware cliffhanger!
What a great set up. I like that the world is being built as the story unfolds, because I’m not hit over the head by a bunch of stuff I know I won’t remember. I also like not knowing everything about the world because it mirrors Briar’s experience. We discover things when she does.
Briar, an abused woman/child with mysterious powers is a new student at one of the magic “institutes,” just in time to start training for a to-the-death competition between the institutes.
At the surface it appears that Briar’s only skill is that magic *doesn’t* affect her. She is impervious. Eventually Briar learns that she is something called a Void, a being that cannot only resist magic, but also co-opt the sender’s powers.
Not surprisingly, Briar’s presence is divisive. On one hand, an instructor and a fellow student may be her fated mates. They are both very protective of her which is a good thing because someone is trying to kill her.
One mate is Ziv, who is the school’s combat instructor, is a massive winged “fallen” god and near immortal.
Her other mate, Kage, is a blue-skinned demon who has been cursed so that his touch is instant death. By the time this book ends it’s not clear if Kage will ever be able to touch his mate.
Beware that this series is not finished yet, and both books end in cliffhangers.
What a great set up. I like that the world is being built as the story unfolds, because I’m not hit over the head by a bunch of stuff I know I won’t remember. I also like not knowing everything about the world because it mirrors Briar’s experience. We discover things when she does.
Briar, an abused woman/child with mysterious powers is a new student at one of the magic “institutes,” just in time to start training for a to-the-death competition between the institutes.
At the surface it appears that Briar’s only skill is that magic *doesn’t* affect her. She is impervious. Eventually Briar learns that she is something called a Void, a being that cannot only resist magic, but also co-opt the sender’s powers.
Not surprisingly, Briar’s presence is divisive. On one hand, an instructor and a fellow student may be her fated mates. They are both very protective of her which is a good thing because someone is trying to kill her.
One mate is Ziv, who is the school’s combat instructor, is a massive winged “fallen” god and near immortal.
Her other mate, Kage, is a blue-skinned demon who has been cursed so that his touch is instant death. By the time this book ends it’s not clear if Kage will ever be able to touch his mate.
Beware that this series is not finished yet, and both books end in cliffhangers.
July 3, 2024
Incredibly slooooww! Continents move faster than this plot! Also talking has been invented so use it - that is the only reason there is a plot because no-one asks questions or answers them!!
Considering the above 2 stars is very generous but won’t bother with any more of this series/author!
Considering the above 2 stars is very generous but won’t bother with any more of this series/author!
June 21, 2024
Ok
This was ok, but lacked any real world building and the characters all felt a bit 2 dimensional. Not a lot of information and thr instalove was a bit much.
This was ok, but lacked any real world building and the characters all felt a bit 2 dimensional. Not a lot of information and thr instalove was a bit much.
June 21, 2024
Ugh what?
That was a weird cliffhanger, that we won't get an explanation for till September 2025!
I liked this, but it was kind of slow until the end.
That was a weird cliffhanger, that we won't get an explanation for till September 2025!
I liked this, but it was kind of slow until the end.
September 10, 2024
i'm confused but also intrigued
November 24, 2024
Umm what?
July 5, 2024
It felt like I started this series on book two. I get leaving readers in the dark so they’re as knowledgeable as the main character, but I truly had no idea who these characters were and what was happening in their world. And just when it starts to become clear the book ends with a cliffhanger.
June 22, 2024
Very disappointed in this book I’ve been so excited for a new series since I love the author and have read everything she’s written and loved it! This just fell so short for me and the book itself was short it’s just needs more of everything honestly!
June 30, 2024
Great read
I want to start off saying I read a few reviews before reading which almost stopped me from reading, but I typically never allow that to happen because everyone experiences books differently. Let me just say that was so evident with this book. One review I saw said that the guys were bullies with no care and that the FMC was childlike and blah blah blah. That is not the same book I read at all. That review had no interpretation or inferences whatsoever. Ziv is aware some of his actions are rough and he apologetic, even apologized to her but he can’t help it because he’s so worried she will die. It’s understandable. Also, Briar is not childlike, she is sheltered and realistic about things. Anyway, everyone is entitled to their opinion and thoughts but definitely don’t be discouraged from any negative reviews not just in this book but others as well. 💜 Thanks Albany, can’t wait to see where this goes because based on your other books, I know this will have more character and world building on the way, this was but a taste to whet the appetite. 😉
I want to start off saying I read a few reviews before reading which almost stopped me from reading, but I typically never allow that to happen because everyone experiences books differently. Let me just say that was so evident with this book. One review I saw said that the guys were bullies with no care and that the FMC was childlike and blah blah blah. That is not the same book I read at all. That review had no interpretation or inferences whatsoever. Ziv is aware some of his actions are rough and he apologetic, even apologized to her but he can’t help it because he’s so worried she will die. It’s understandable. Also, Briar is not childlike, she is sheltered and realistic about things. Anyway, everyone is entitled to their opinion and thoughts but definitely don’t be discouraged from any negative reviews not just in this book but others as well. 💜 Thanks Albany, can’t wait to see where this goes because based on your other books, I know this will have more character and world building on the way, this was but a taste to whet the appetite. 😉
December 5, 2024
Albany that was so not cool… I knew going in there would be a cliffhanger because there always is with Albany’s books and they get me every freaking time I swear I’m addicted but I was expecting relationship drama as the cliffhanger not THAT! I neeeeed to know where this is going to lead like asap!! I am of course loving Ziv but who’s shocked? 😂 I’m interested to see Briars relationship with Kage evolve and if I know Albany’s writing I’m most excited to see Briar grow as a person and become more confident in herself. I am curious if there will be any more guys added. I know Albany has wrote a few ménage books but I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to more guys. 😏
June 21, 2024
No What-Ifs ❤️
Before this beauty I was in a book slump for some reason (my TBR couldn’t understand my problem lol), but this right here snapped me right out of it 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Ok, so I went into this book blind. All I knew was that it came from the brilliance of Albany, and that’s all I needed. When I realized it was a PNR, I was thrilled 🙌🏻 Then there was the added mysterious academy backdrop of the story, as well as the fated mates, whychoose & romantasy aspects, and well, that was enough for me to know I was probably gonna be fully invested pretty quickly. Guess what? I was right 😉 Within the first few pages I knew that this book was going to keep me enthralled. Briar, our FMC, immediately had me so curious about her story, especially with all the references to the abuse she had suffered in her past, and all the mentions of her unique powers. I found myself wondering how we would see her test & challenge our MMCs, as well as change & grow during the story (because I just knew that all of that was in our future after getting a glimpse of her inner strength). Theeeeeeen I met Kage, and I just knew he was going to become an addiction for me (ok, & for Briar too probably 😝😈😂). I gotta say, I found it quite amusing when he kept referring to Briar as “my creature”…🤨🤦🏻♀️🙄🤷🏻♀️🤣 Ahhhh, as for Ziv…it didn’t take much for me to wanna call him ‘sir’ & see if he needed my services for anything (he gave me Memphis vibes…which means he now owns me, no questions asked…IYKYK 👀🫣🔥😬). Oh, & just so you know…I’m never gonna look at meat on a bone the same again…who knew eating dinner could get that intense 👀🫣🔥😈😂🤷🏻♀️ Every chapter drew me further & further in, and I found myself wanting to just fold myself up in Briar’s secrets & mysteries. Of course, Ziv had me wanting to do other things too, 🥵🔥😘 but we won’t talk about that (I’m totally not jealous of Briar…much 😒🤷🏻♀️). I’m already driving myself crazy wishing the whole trilogy was already finished, cause I know it’s gonna drive me crazy from now until I can see her finally find peace of mind & true happiness with no strings attached. Especially after that ending 👀👀👀 Please tell me WHY WHY WHY I let Albany torture me 😭😭😭 This is why we just need to fast forward to book 2, to protect my sanity 😬🫣😂 If whychoose romantasy stories are your kind of books, and you don’t mind cliffhangers that make you wanna scream…then PLEASEEEE do yourself a favor & grab this book NOW 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️
Before this beauty I was in a book slump for some reason (my TBR couldn’t understand my problem lol), but this right here snapped me right out of it 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 Ok, so I went into this book blind. All I knew was that it came from the brilliance of Albany, and that’s all I needed. When I realized it was a PNR, I was thrilled 🙌🏻 Then there was the added mysterious academy backdrop of the story, as well as the fated mates, whychoose & romantasy aspects, and well, that was enough for me to know I was probably gonna be fully invested pretty quickly. Guess what? I was right 😉 Within the first few pages I knew that this book was going to keep me enthralled. Briar, our FMC, immediately had me so curious about her story, especially with all the references to the abuse she had suffered in her past, and all the mentions of her unique powers. I found myself wondering how we would see her test & challenge our MMCs, as well as change & grow during the story (because I just knew that all of that was in our future after getting a glimpse of her inner strength). Theeeeeeen I met Kage, and I just knew he was going to become an addiction for me (ok, & for Briar too probably 😝😈😂). I gotta say, I found it quite amusing when he kept referring to Briar as “my creature”…🤨🤦🏻♀️🙄🤷🏻♀️🤣 Ahhhh, as for Ziv…it didn’t take much for me to wanna call him ‘sir’ & see if he needed my services for anything (he gave me Memphis vibes…which means he now owns me, no questions asked…IYKYK 👀🫣🔥😬). Oh, & just so you know…I’m never gonna look at meat on a bone the same again…who knew eating dinner could get that intense 👀🫣🔥😈😂🤷🏻♀️ Every chapter drew me further & further in, and I found myself wanting to just fold myself up in Briar’s secrets & mysteries. Of course, Ziv had me wanting to do other things too, 🥵🔥😘 but we won’t talk about that (I’m totally not jealous of Briar…much 😒🤷🏻♀️). I’m already driving myself crazy wishing the whole trilogy was already finished, cause I know it’s gonna drive me crazy from now until I can see her finally find peace of mind & true happiness with no strings attached. Especially after that ending 👀👀👀 Please tell me WHY WHY WHY I let Albany torture me 😭😭😭 This is why we just need to fast forward to book 2, to protect my sanity 😬🫣😂 If whychoose romantasy stories are your kind of books, and you don’t mind cliffhangers that make you wanna scream…then PLEASEEEE do yourself a favor & grab this book NOW 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️
June 21, 2024
Man - this book hit me in the feels!
Bria is so so sweet. She has such a sad past, which we learn more of as the book progresses, and is just starting to try and learn and heal from it. Kage - my poor lonely and tormented Kage. I really with we could give him a hug! And Ziv - sigh. When he calls Briar little flower...it's the sweetest!
I liked that everyone is a different type of supernatural with different powers. I really hope that we can see Briar learn what her powers can do and what she is truly capable of - we only get hints and glimpses. I also want to see what Ziv can do - we see some of his powers and how powerful he is, but what all will he do to prove his devotion to Briar, and keep her safe. Poor Briar was convinced she couldn't have mates, and then she finds 2 at Ivy. Both Ziv and Kage are conflicted - wanting what's best for her and not believing they might be it. Briar has a lot of moments where you can tell her self esteem isn't great, and there are moments she thinks Ziv is mad about it, but he's really just pissed at her terrible father. I cannot wait to see the continued torment Ziv doles out to her dad.
I had to go back and look at my highlighted quotes...but when Ziv and Briar have a moment, he says "Courting is for those who lack the will to possess, and you seized me from the moment you took a breath in my presence. What I will do is worship you, protect you, and train you so I know I will never lose you."
Be prepared - the cliffy hangover is real!!! I can't wait for book 2 in September. I did not expect the twist at the end, and I am supremely greedy for more Briar, Ziv, and Kage.
All in all, I think this was an amazing start to a new series, and I can't wait to see where Albany takes us.
Bria is so so sweet. She has such a sad past, which we learn more of as the book progresses, and is just starting to try and learn and heal from it. Kage - my poor lonely and tormented Kage. I really with we could give him a hug! And Ziv - sigh. When he calls Briar little flower...it's the sweetest!
I liked that everyone is a different type of supernatural with different powers. I really hope that we can see Briar learn what her powers can do and what she is truly capable of - we only get hints and glimpses. I also want to see what Ziv can do - we see some of his powers and how powerful he is, but what all will he do to prove his devotion to Briar, and keep her safe. Poor Briar was convinced she couldn't have mates, and then she finds 2 at Ivy. Both Ziv and Kage are conflicted - wanting what's best for her and not believing they might be it. Briar has a lot of moments where you can tell her self esteem isn't great, and there are moments she thinks Ziv is mad about it, but he's really just pissed at her terrible father. I cannot wait to see the continued torment Ziv doles out to her dad.
I had to go back and look at my highlighted quotes...but when Ziv and Briar have a moment, he says "Courting is for those who lack the will to possess, and you seized me from the moment you took a breath in my presence. What I will do is worship you, protect you, and train you so I know I will never lose you."
Be prepared - the cliffy hangover is real!!! I can't wait for book 2 in September. I did not expect the twist at the end, and I am supremely greedy for more Briar, Ziv, and Kage.
All in all, I think this was an amazing start to a new series, and I can't wait to see where Albany takes us.
July 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ "Tender Thorns" by Albany Walker - A Captivating Start to The Ivy Institute Series
"Tender Thorns" by Albany Walker is an enthralling read that resonated deeply with me, particularly through the FMC, Briar. Having grown up with an abusive father, I found Briar's character relatable and authentic. The author masterfully portrays the stunted maturation of an adult woman shaped by a traumatic upbringing, making Briar's journey both compelling and heart-wrenching.
The story moves at a brisk pace with no dull moments, keeping me hooked from start to finish. The narrative is filled with unanswered questions that have left me eagerly anticipating the second installment, set to release in September 2024. This first book beautifully focuses on the complex relationship between Briar and the fallen god, Ziv, laying a strong foundation for the series.
I'm particularly excited to delve deeper into the second love interest, Kage, in the upcoming book. I have a strong feeling that the death demon will tug at my heartstrings, adding another layer of depth to this already captivating series.
Overall, "Tender Thorns" is a fantastic start to The Ivy Institute series, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping and emotional read. Can't wait for the next book!
"Tender Thorns" by Albany Walker is an enthralling read that resonated deeply with me, particularly through the FMC, Briar. Having grown up with an abusive father, I found Briar's character relatable and authentic. The author masterfully portrays the stunted maturation of an adult woman shaped by a traumatic upbringing, making Briar's journey both compelling and heart-wrenching.
The story moves at a brisk pace with no dull moments, keeping me hooked from start to finish. The narrative is filled with unanswered questions that have left me eagerly anticipating the second installment, set to release in September 2024. This first book beautifully focuses on the complex relationship between Briar and the fallen god, Ziv, laying a strong foundation for the series.
I'm particularly excited to delve deeper into the second love interest, Kage, in the upcoming book. I have a strong feeling that the death demon will tug at my heartstrings, adding another layer of depth to this already captivating series.
Overall, "Tender Thorns" is a fantastic start to The Ivy Institute series, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping and emotional read. Can't wait for the next book!
July 4, 2024
I'll say 2.5.
Spoilers.
Alright. I have read and been okay with some of the books this author has written but sometimes I really struggle with her broken damsel in distress main characters. They always casually drop their trauma on others and don't ever understand the world fully and it can get old. The men in their lives have to coddle them, teach them, and do everything for them and I am not sure I am down with that. Allow them to be strong characters even with tragic backgrounds. Most of this story involves the main character waiting in her room until Ziv walks with her somewhere.
Guys:
We dont really get to know the demon which I'm assuming will change in book 2. We barely really get to know Ziv aside from caveman thoughts and sexual encounters so maybe he's more flushed out in the next book.
Plot:
Honestly, the plot fell short for me. Mostly because there isn't a ton of movement on it and most the story just takes place in her bedroom which became repetitive to say the least. How many scenes did we need of Ziv knocking to be let in? I think there are 6-7 scenes in different povs of him knocking to be let in her room.
Not sure I'll move on in the series.
Spoilers.
Alright. I have read and been okay with some of the books this author has written but sometimes I really struggle with her broken damsel in distress main characters. They always casually drop their trauma on others and don't ever understand the world fully and it can get old. The men in their lives have to coddle them, teach them, and do everything for them and I am not sure I am down with that. Allow them to be strong characters even with tragic backgrounds. Most of this story involves the main character waiting in her room until Ziv walks with her somewhere.
Guys:
We dont really get to know the demon which I'm assuming will change in book 2. We barely really get to know Ziv aside from caveman thoughts and sexual encounters so maybe he's more flushed out in the next book.
Plot:
Honestly, the plot fell short for me. Mostly because there isn't a ton of movement on it and most the story just takes place in her bedroom which became repetitive to say the least. How many scenes did we need of Ziv knocking to be let in? I think there are 6-7 scenes in different povs of him knocking to be let in her room.
Not sure I'll move on in the series.
June 20, 2024
This book, THIS BOOK! It sucked me in with its brilliance and spat me right back out with the ending!
Briar is damaged but not broken, yet. In a hostile environment of magic users, she is weak and vulnerable but she has an inner strength and innate will to survive.
Kage is a demon, his 'gift' is in fact a curse, leading him to a solitary life. Let that not fool you into believing he will bend to anyone for attention or compassion though.
Ziv is a fallen. A God. Strong, stubborn, bored and uninterested in getting involved on a personal level with anyone at the Ivy Institute.
When Briar is summoned to the Ivy, all three of their lives will never be the same again.
The character detail is exquisite, the interactions between all the main characters had me invested from the start. There is mystery, pain, self doubt, mate bonds, strong men bought to their knees, possessiveness, obsession and those wonderful tiny interactions and details that elevate this book to one of my top reads of this year so far.
Briar is damaged but not broken, yet. In a hostile environment of magic users, she is weak and vulnerable but she has an inner strength and innate will to survive.
Kage is a demon, his 'gift' is in fact a curse, leading him to a solitary life. Let that not fool you into believing he will bend to anyone for attention or compassion though.
Ziv is a fallen. A God. Strong, stubborn, bored and uninterested in getting involved on a personal level with anyone at the Ivy Institute.
When Briar is summoned to the Ivy, all three of their lives will never be the same again.
The character detail is exquisite, the interactions between all the main characters had me invested from the start. There is mystery, pain, self doubt, mate bonds, strong men bought to their knees, possessiveness, obsession and those wonderful tiny interactions and details that elevate this book to one of my top reads of this year so far.
January 7, 2025
3 stars might be a bit generous, more like 2.5 stars for me.
The concept of this book interested me a lot - a whole bunch of different creatures and people with powers pretty much forced into a magic training institute to eventually fight for the god’s entertainment. It had the potential to create an amazing world with lots of details about both mortals and immortals, magic users and non-magic users etc.
However, the book moved faster than any fantasy book I’ve read recently. It seems to focus solely on the mating bonds between the FMC and two men.
There was no character building or background leading up to the FMC getting selected for the institute. There was almost no world building or background information for any characters.
Overall, an easy read with lots of potential but too many details lacking for this to be an entertaining book. I will read the sequel purely because it is free on kindle unlimited and I am still holding out hope that the author can read the potential of the story they created.
The concept of this book interested me a lot - a whole bunch of different creatures and people with powers pretty much forced into a magic training institute to eventually fight for the god’s entertainment. It had the potential to create an amazing world with lots of details about both mortals and immortals, magic users and non-magic users etc.
However, the book moved faster than any fantasy book I’ve read recently. It seems to focus solely on the mating bonds between the FMC and two men.
There was no character building or background leading up to the FMC getting selected for the institute. There was almost no world building or background information for any characters.
Overall, an easy read with lots of potential but too many details lacking for this to be an entertaining book. I will read the sequel purely because it is free on kindle unlimited and I am still holding out hope that the author can read the potential of the story they created.
January 13, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
DNF at 51%
Yeahhhh, my first DNF of 2025....
I wanted to love this book, to enjoy it. And at some point there was a flicker of enjoyment. But it died.
There’s no context: the universe and the powers aren’t detailed, nothing is fleshed out enough for us to really immerse ourselves in the story. The information is just thrown at us, and everything happens way too fast.
She’s barely arrived, and the two MMCs already know she’s their mate, with no detailed explanation as to how or why they know this. Kage doesn’t even know her, yet he sneaks into her room to watch her and gets off while she’s sleeping.
The only relationship I could have liked is the one she could have had with Ziv. But again, everything happens too fast. They train together for the first time, and boom—she bites him, creating the bond that’s supposed to unite them. And the worst part? She didn't even know she bonded her to him. Even then, the explanations are rushed—if you can even call them explanations.
I really wanted to enjoy this book because it has so much potential, but it was poorly executed.
DNF at 51%
Yeahhhh, my first DNF of 2025....
I wanted to love this book, to enjoy it. And at some point there was a flicker of enjoyment. But it died.
There’s no context: the universe and the powers aren’t detailed, nothing is fleshed out enough for us to really immerse ourselves in the story. The information is just thrown at us, and everything happens way too fast.
She’s barely arrived, and the two MMCs already know she’s their mate, with no detailed explanation as to how or why they know this. Kage doesn’t even know her, yet he sneaks into her room to watch her and gets off while she’s sleeping.
The only relationship I could have liked is the one she could have had with Ziv. But again, everything happens too fast. They train together for the first time, and boom—she bites him, creating the bond that’s supposed to unite them. And the worst part? She didn't even know she bonded her to him. Even then, the explanations are rushed—if you can even call them explanations.
I really wanted to enjoy this book because it has so much potential, but it was poorly executed.
June 20, 2024
what a start!!
Albany absolutely killed the start to this series and I am aching for more. She did a great job of establishing and developing the world and characters and getting me hooked. Briar is that loveable sweet fmc who’s a bit naive but has her men to help her learn about the Ivy Institute and her new life. Ziv.. what a man. I love him and if you love a man who falls first and is obsessed with the fmc, he is perfect for you. I want to give Kage a hug so bad and I’m really looking forward to him getting the love he deserves and has been so deprived of. Don’t even get me started on the pet names, I’m obsessed. The cliffhanger was a shocker, I thought it was going one way and I never could have expected the way it ended. I’m so excited to see how everything develops in the next book and maybe meet more of the harem 👀 definitely a must read that I could not recommend more. I could not put this book down.
Albany absolutely killed the start to this series and I am aching for more. She did a great job of establishing and developing the world and characters and getting me hooked. Briar is that loveable sweet fmc who’s a bit naive but has her men to help her learn about the Ivy Institute and her new life. Ziv.. what a man. I love him and if you love a man who falls first and is obsessed with the fmc, he is perfect for you. I want to give Kage a hug so bad and I’m really looking forward to him getting the love he deserves and has been so deprived of. Don’t even get me started on the pet names, I’m obsessed. The cliffhanger was a shocker, I thought it was going one way and I never could have expected the way it ended. I’m so excited to see how everything develops in the next book and maybe meet more of the harem 👀 definitely a must read that I could not recommend more. I could not put this book down.
August 4, 2024
3.5 stars
While not my favorite Albany Walker book it still has a lot of the same components that I enjoy.
I would have liked to see a bit more relationship developing and maybe a bit more psychopathy from the guys, but I'm hopeful for the following books.
I did enjoy this character, even though she technically is pretty weak and pathetic. I liked her very accepting and realistic view of the world, her snark that pops out despite the somewhat institutionalized obedient responses and her willingness to trudge onwards.
I read some of the other reviews before realizing that this was an Albany Walker book (which I will always give a try to) and I have to say, I really don't agree with a lot of them or the problems people had with the book, so I'm glad I knew this author or I wouldn't have even given it a try.
Was it perfect? No.
Did I still enjoy the story? Yes
Would I have dived into book two despite it being 1am? Absolutely. Can't wait for September.
While not my favorite Albany Walker book it still has a lot of the same components that I enjoy.
I would have liked to see a bit more relationship developing and maybe a bit more psychopathy from the guys, but I'm hopeful for the following books.
I did enjoy this character, even though she technically is pretty weak and pathetic. I liked her very accepting and realistic view of the world, her snark that pops out despite the somewhat institutionalized obedient responses and her willingness to trudge onwards.
I read some of the other reviews before realizing that this was an Albany Walker book (which I will always give a try to) and I have to say, I really don't agree with a lot of them or the problems people had with the book, so I'm glad I knew this author or I wouldn't have even given it a try.
Was it perfect? No.
Did I still enjoy the story? Yes
Would I have dived into book two despite it being 1am? Absolutely. Can't wait for September.
October 30, 2024
DNF @42%
Absolutely nothing has happened except for excessive - and I mean excessive - focus on her history of abuse and how that shapes literally anything and everything she thinks, says, and does.
Ziv's behavior doesn't make sense - no matter how the author tries to link it to his attempt to resist his mate. Like who refuses to show someone where the bathroom is when they haven't been able to use one for what... at least 24-36 hours? She's literally filthy and probably has to relieve herself and he's just like "Nah, you can wait until tonight"?
Kage verges on a nothingburger side character.
The whole "institute" feels like a shoddy pretense for forced proximity - no actual thought was put into building that world.
Everything feels too forced and convoluted for any kind of chemistry or suspension of disbelief. The timeline is a lethargic slag through the most tedious mental gymnastics while also being bizarrely rushed.
Nope. Not for me.
Absolutely nothing has happened except for excessive - and I mean excessive - focus on her history of abuse and how that shapes literally anything and everything she thinks, says, and does.
Ziv's behavior doesn't make sense - no matter how the author tries to link it to his attempt to resist his mate. Like who refuses to show someone where the bathroom is when they haven't been able to use one for what... at least 24-36 hours? She's literally filthy and probably has to relieve herself and he's just like "Nah, you can wait until tonight"?
Kage verges on a nothingburger side character.
The whole "institute" feels like a shoddy pretense for forced proximity - no actual thought was put into building that world.
Everything feels too forced and convoluted for any kind of chemistry or suspension of disbelief. The timeline is a lethargic slag through the most tedious mental gymnastics while also being bizarrely rushed.
Nope. Not for me.
June 24, 2024
Last week I received my invitation to The Ivy Institute to train with all the others like me or so I'm told, my father got greedy and used me as his cash cow. I was almost unstoppable so when I got my invitation I was dreading it. al the Ivy Institute we were the elite from witches, vampires, shifters, healers and almost any kind of supernatural being you could think of now I was one of them, at my new home where I hope I would learn about my powers and hopefully survive. in a new place where I'm granted privacy and respect, I'm not sure what to do with it but I'm hoping they too aren't taking advantage of me. this was a great read it started out a little slower for me, but I had just finished a different genre, so it took me a while to get into it but once it picked up for me it was fantastic as usual.
July 2, 2024
I never can pass up on Reading a new Albany Walker book. It's always how she writes the plot and the characters that get me hooked. This book she did not disappoint me either. You got Briar how is going to a institute and oh course her dad doesn't even take her actually there. Nope she has to walk up the road herself and let's just say she really doesn't make it. That's all I can say without running the whole book, but let's just daddy issues. It's ok though, because they're might be a few men in this book that help and protect her. Let's just say I'm ok to add them to my harem of men of how much I already am in love with them. It does end in a cliffhanger and let's just say it's going to make you want to crave to have the second book already. I highly recommend reading this book and already can say the second book when it comes out. Happy Reading!
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