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Cursed Campus
A taboo love affair.
A curse that plagues campus.
The mystery deepens.
Arya Willow and Cole Hudson are still reeling from their close encounter with the ghost of Gomada Academy. Struggling to control her new magic and desperate to protect her friends, Arya seeks the one person she never thought would help – Cole. While the shift in their relationship is perplexing, Arya can't seem to stay away from him.
When the ghost crashes the Academy’s Halloween party, Cole must do whatever it takes to defend the students. But he can't help the growing need to shield Arya above all else. Frustrated with his feelings yet bent on facing the enemy head-on, Cole is torn between battle and love.
Now Arya and Cole must put aside their magnetic attraction to thwart the evil that's stalking campus. With other trusted comrades aware of the threat to the school, it's only a matter of time before the darkness becomes extinguished – or dominates.
A curse that plagues campus.
The mystery deepens.
Arya Willow and Cole Hudson are still reeling from their close encounter with the ghost of Gomada Academy. Struggling to control her new magic and desperate to protect her friends, Arya seeks the one person she never thought would help – Cole. While the shift in their relationship is perplexing, Arya can't seem to stay away from him.
When the ghost crashes the Academy’s Halloween party, Cole must do whatever it takes to defend the students. But he can't help the growing need to shield Arya above all else. Frustrated with his feelings yet bent on facing the enemy head-on, Cole is torn between battle and love.
Now Arya and Cole must put aside their magnetic attraction to thwart the evil that's stalking campus. With other trusted comrades aware of the threat to the school, it's only a matter of time before the darkness becomes extinguished – or dominates.
- GenresEbooks
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2024
20 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 27, 2024
I loved Cynthia's fast paced writing. Dual POV works perfectly!! She is a fantastic author! We get the information about the characters from one perspective, but there is no attempt to give us additional information of that interaction by filling in those gaps when the other POV takes over. I totally respect that kind of trust in readers.
I started book 2 directly, as it was given to me as an ARC.. due to lack of proper research, I didn't think of reading book 1 before starting this, but I didn't feel lost for once, as most of the events from book 1 were referenced here - which heavily impacts the decisions the characters make - which again is really good writing.
This one does end on a huge cliffhanger though! I didn't see that coming and was flipping pages to see if my version has something missing.. I am not used to a book ending this way, so it did dull my ending experience a little, but I think that is just my personal preference.. I still would totally recommend this book for the wonderful writing, really likable characters and the creative magic system (need to see more types of shifters!!!).
I might not go back and pick up book 1, cause I already know what would happen in that, but I really am excited about book 3!
I started book 2 directly, as it was given to me as an ARC.. due to lack of proper research, I didn't think of reading book 1 before starting this, but I didn't feel lost for once, as most of the events from book 1 were referenced here - which heavily impacts the decisions the characters make - which again is really good writing.
This one does end on a huge cliffhanger though! I didn't see that coming and was flipping pages to see if my version has something missing.. I am not used to a book ending this way, so it did dull my ending experience a little, but I think that is just my personal preference.. I still would totally recommend this book for the wonderful writing, really likable characters and the creative magic system (need to see more types of shifters!!!).
I might not go back and pick up book 1, cause I already know what would happen in that, but I really am excited about book 3!
March 21, 2024
4,5 ⭐️
Cursed Campus is the second book in the Gomada Academy series. Like the first book in the series, this one is also told from two points of view: half-human/half-nymph Arya and shifter Cole. The book starts right where the first book ended.
I enjoyed the dark academia vibes once again, along with the ghost hunting and mystery elements.
I found Arya much more likable in this book; she seemed to have matured and gained confidence as a character. Additionally, her and Cole’s relationship appeared more mature, and I appreciated their chemistry and dynamic.
Similar to the previous book, this one was action-packed without any dull moments. The writing was great, making the book an easy and interesting read.
There were slightly more romantic elements compared to the first book, but nothing explicit, making it suitable for younger readers.
The ending was surprising, and I can’t wait to read what happens next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
Cursed Campus is the second book in the Gomada Academy series. Like the first book in the series, this one is also told from two points of view: half-human/half-nymph Arya and shifter Cole. The book starts right where the first book ended.
I enjoyed the dark academia vibes once again, along with the ghost hunting and mystery elements.
I found Arya much more likable in this book; she seemed to have matured and gained confidence as a character. Additionally, her and Cole’s relationship appeared more mature, and I appreciated their chemistry and dynamic.
Similar to the previous book, this one was action-packed without any dull moments. The writing was great, making the book an easy and interesting read.
There were slightly more romantic elements compared to the first book, but nothing explicit, making it suitable for younger readers.
The ending was surprising, and I can’t wait to read what happens next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
March 30, 2024
Cursed Campus picks up immediately where Gomada Academy finished off, which is fairly unique and fun in a sequel. This series is quite firmly YA and contains all of the teenage angst and confusion any average teenage should expect to experience. While there was a budding romance, there is no spice, keeping this a safe read for mid-older teens. I was so happy to see Arya’s development into a more confident young lady, while staying true to her kind heart. Loved to see Cole also starting to take more responsibility for his schooling and how his actions affect those around them. Altogether another fast paced instalment of life at Gomada Academy for Nymphs, Enchanters and Shifters!
March 30, 2024
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.5
I was very interested in learning more from where book 1 ended ... however, it was getting a bit frustrating.
I understand that Gomada Academy contains a mix of species (or races) that sometimes do not get along with each other. However, it was just being repeated on every page ... by both POVs and it kept taking me out of the story.
I was enjoying the growth of Cole's character, just wish that Arya's character had some consistent growth throughout the book.
I am, honestly not sure if I would continue the series.
I was very interested in learning more from where book 1 ended ... however, it was getting a bit frustrating.
I understand that Gomada Academy contains a mix of species (or races) that sometimes do not get along with each other. However, it was just being repeated on every page ... by both POVs and it kept taking me out of the story.
I was enjoying the growth of Cole's character, just wish that Arya's character had some consistent growth throughout the book.
I am, honestly not sure if I would continue the series.
March 30, 2024
Cursed Campus had everything I was hoping for as the next in series after Gomada Academy!
The character development felt more natural and it felt like the characters were actually developing. Cole is becoming more tolerable and is showing unexpected leadership qualities. Arya is slowly becoming more confident and I actually really like that it’s taking her awhile because it makes her feel more relatable and it’s refreshing to see instead of a naturally confident and strong FMC.
The ghost/ not ghost thing has me a bit more confused than before, but not necessarily in a bad way. More in a need more of the story kind of way!
Like Gomada Academy, book 2 has a pretty quick pace and is easy to follow along and quicker read overall.
I’m still loving the dark academia vibes and the little glimpse into the world of Gomada. Looking forward to what comes next in the series!
The character development felt more natural and it felt like the characters were actually developing. Cole is becoming more tolerable and is showing unexpected leadership qualities. Arya is slowly becoming more confident and I actually really like that it’s taking her awhile because it makes her feel more relatable and it’s refreshing to see instead of a naturally confident and strong FMC.
The ghost/ not ghost thing has me a bit more confused than before, but not necessarily in a bad way. More in a need more of the story kind of way!
Like Gomada Academy, book 2 has a pretty quick pace and is easy to follow along and quicker read overall.
I’m still loving the dark academia vibes and the little glimpse into the world of Gomada. Looking forward to what comes next in the series!
March 30, 2024
This second book was even better than the first one for me.
I really enjoyed the overall vibe of the book, like the first book the pacing was great and they weren't any dull moment. I think I like it a bit more because the characters were less annoying they acted a bit more matured and less on the extreme side.
I also ended on a cliffhanger and I want to know what's happening !
I really enjoyed the overall vibe of the book, like the first book the pacing was great and they weren't any dull moment. I think I like it a bit more because the characters were less annoying they acted a bit more matured and less on the extreme side.
I also ended on a cliffhanger and I want to know what's happening !
April 1, 2024
Holy cliffhanger! My heart is pounding! I throughly enjoyed this book!
April 20, 2024
Building on the momentum of Gomada Academy, Cynthia Brubaker has delivered a fast-paced and entertaining sequel in Cursed Campus. Cole is still a bit of a jerk and Arya is still struggling with her anxiety but they remain determined to uncover the mystery of the ghost threatening the students of the academy. While also finding the time to explore their growing attraction; a surprise to both. Whether the building terror of disappearing students or navigating interactions with bullies and suspicious professors while forming unexpected alliances, Arya and Cole have their work cut out for them. It's all laid out in an exciting story with a jam-packed, cliffhanger ending that has me waiting on edge for the next book in the series. Hopefully, coming soon.
March 30, 2024
4.5
I loved this book more than its prequel. It had more plot, revelations, and romance. Also (drrrrum-roll please), it ends on a cliffhanger bigger than the first book!!!
Summary: We start the next day from where we left off in the first book. Arya is attempting to figure out why she and Cole did what they did while also dealing with everything else going on on campus. With the school becoming more dangerous by the day and the teachers attempting to conceal it, Arya finds herself relying more on Cole.
Cole is in turmoil of emotions. He never thought he would care much about anyone, let alone a nymph. With the ghost kidnapping the students on campus, he can't help but feel more protective of Arya. The last thing he needs is this attraction and the emotions that he has for her.
Plot and writing: This is the second book in the Gomada Academy series. Written in first-person, dual POV, this book focuses more on the changing relationship between Arya and Cole, their lives on campus, and the students trying to deal with the ghost.
The world-building and magic systems remain unchanged from the first book. I loved the tone in which it was written. The chapters were of perfect length, and the book in total was 279 pages.
Did I do something to make him lose interest in me (big surprise)? Or is it something much bigger than that?
...Cole isn't just any boy. He's the most infuriating, obnoxious. and difficult person I know. He's also the most surprising, complex, and caring guy I've ever met.
'Immature and weak' are pretty much me, as much as I hate to admit it.
Characters: Similar to book one, I absolutely loved Cole in this one as well. His self-realization, and effort that he puts in to change himself for Arya and also for himself in general, is excellent.
Arya is the most relatable character I've ever read. She gets nervous, doubts everything, is nice and a rule-follower, and most relatable of all is her inability to come up with witty comebacks and just being a regular girl. I also liked the other characters, particularly Diego and Qadir. I wished to read more about them in this book—maybe 1 or 2 chapters from their POVs or more insights into their lives from Cole's POV? Anything would have been more satisfactory.
I just think it's better if no one knows about us.
Relationships: Cole and Arya's complex relationship is perfectly written; the author addresses every thought, action, and emotion. I simply adored it. The no-spice writing has no negative impact on the story or the romance. In fact, I don't think I was even looking for the spice. Nora and Arya's friendship is also handled admirably, although Nora's relationship is kept at the forefront, as expected. At the same time, we also read more about Diego and Cole's dynamic.
I also enjoyed the family aspect presented here, and Arya's little sister is adorable! I'd love to read more about her in the upcoming books.
Recommendation: Its no-spice romance makes it perfect for fantasy romance fans of all ages. Also, because it is fast-paced and a quick read, I believe both YA and adult genre readers will enjoy it.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
I loved this book more than its prequel. It had more plot, revelations, and romance. Also (drrrrum-roll please), it ends on a cliffhanger bigger than the first book!!!
Summary: We start the next day from where we left off in the first book. Arya is attempting to figure out why she and Cole did what they did while also dealing with everything else going on on campus. With the school becoming more dangerous by the day and the teachers attempting to conceal it, Arya finds herself relying more on Cole.
Cole is in turmoil of emotions. He never thought he would care much about anyone, let alone a nymph. With the ghost kidnapping the students on campus, he can't help but feel more protective of Arya. The last thing he needs is this attraction and the emotions that he has for her.
Plot and writing: This is the second book in the Gomada Academy series. Written in first-person, dual POV, this book focuses more on the changing relationship between Arya and Cole, their lives on campus, and the students trying to deal with the ghost.
The world-building and magic systems remain unchanged from the first book. I loved the tone in which it was written. The chapters were of perfect length, and the book in total was 279 pages.
Did I do something to make him lose interest in me (big surprise)? Or is it something much bigger than that?
...Cole isn't just any boy. He's the most infuriating, obnoxious. and difficult person I know. He's also the most surprising, complex, and caring guy I've ever met.
'Immature and weak' are pretty much me, as much as I hate to admit it.
Characters: Similar to book one, I absolutely loved Cole in this one as well. His self-realization, and effort that he puts in to change himself for Arya and also for himself in general, is excellent.
Arya is the most relatable character I've ever read. She gets nervous, doubts everything, is nice and a rule-follower, and most relatable of all is her inability to come up with witty comebacks and just being a regular girl. I also liked the other characters, particularly Diego and Qadir. I wished to read more about them in this book—maybe 1 or 2 chapters from their POVs or more insights into their lives from Cole's POV? Anything would have been more satisfactory.
I just think it's better if no one knows about us.
Relationships: Cole and Arya's complex relationship is perfectly written; the author addresses every thought, action, and emotion. I simply adored it. The no-spice writing has no negative impact on the story or the romance. In fact, I don't think I was even looking for the spice. Nora and Arya's friendship is also handled admirably, although Nora's relationship is kept at the forefront, as expected. At the same time, we also read more about Diego and Cole's dynamic.
I also enjoyed the family aspect presented here, and Arya's little sister is adorable! I'd love to read more about her in the upcoming books.
Recommendation: Its no-spice romance makes it perfect for fantasy romance fans of all ages. Also, because it is fast-paced and a quick read, I believe both YA and adult genre readers will enjoy it.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
September 4, 2024
I am absolutely in love with this series. Despite being a fantasy full of nymphs, shifters, and enchanters, the characters are relatably human in their actions and drew me in with their witty banter and drive to succeed in their mission. I'll say I definitely liked the second novel more than the first (though both were great!), because it raised the stakes a great deal and had me turning pages like a madwoman. And when I turned to what I thought was one final chapter and read "Acknowledgements..." instead, I was SCREAMING.
Cole has fast become one of my favourite characters. It's a far cry from the beginning of Gomada Academy, when I wanted to throttle him. Now I want to punch him a little less hard and tell him to get out of his head. His conflicted feelings over a certain someone and his inability to look past the prejudices he grew up with is fantastic, real, and heartbreaking. I can't wait to see how he develops in the next installment!
Arya too has come such a long way, and I'm so proud of that little pixie! Growing up as a push-over, of course I'm going to cheer her on as she learns to speak up and advocate for herself, and I hope others will read her character and be inspired by her actions, too. She's so wonderfully written!
I'm dying to know what comes next!
Cole has fast become one of my favourite characters. It's a far cry from the beginning of Gomada Academy, when I wanted to throttle him. Now I want to punch him a little less hard and tell him to get out of his head. His conflicted feelings over a certain someone and his inability to look past the prejudices he grew up with is fantastic, real, and heartbreaking. I can't wait to see how he develops in the next installment!
Arya too has come such a long way, and I'm so proud of that little pixie! Growing up as a push-over, of course I'm going to cheer her on as she learns to speak up and advocate for herself, and I hope others will read her character and be inspired by her actions, too. She's so wonderfully written!
I'm dying to know what comes next!
March 28, 2024
📖Book Review📖
Cursed Campus by Cynthia Brubaker
𝘼 𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧.
𝘼 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙪𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙪𝙨.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨.
Arya Willow and Cole Hudson are still reeling from their close encounter with the ghost of Gomada Academy. Struggling to control her new magic and desperate to protect her friends, Arya seeks the one person she never thought would help – Cole. While the shift in their relationship is perplexing, Arya can't seem to stay away from him.
I read BOTH Gomada Academy and Cursed Campus in record time! Gomada Academy sets the stage for an epic battle that will take place with the ghost, while Cursed Campus has you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who the ghost is.
Did I mention it also ends on an amazing yet frustrating cliffhanger?! 😂😂 I need Book 3 STAT!
Thanks @cb.novelist for an amazing read ❤️🤩
#books #bookshelf #bookstore #ilovebooks #lovebooks #booksbooksbooks #bookshop #ebooks #bookshelves #bookstack #picturebooks #readmorebooks #booksarelife #newbooks #read #bookish #booknerd #bookaddict #bookaholic #reader #bookphotography #booklover #bookblogger #bookrecommendations #kindle #bookcommunity #booknerdigans #bookdragon #amreading #readingcommunity#gomadaacademy #cursedcampus
Cursed Campus by Cynthia Brubaker
𝘼 𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙖𝙞𝙧.
𝘼 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙪𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙪𝙨.
𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨.
Arya Willow and Cole Hudson are still reeling from their close encounter with the ghost of Gomada Academy. Struggling to control her new magic and desperate to protect her friends, Arya seeks the one person she never thought would help – Cole. While the shift in their relationship is perplexing, Arya can't seem to stay away from him.
I read BOTH Gomada Academy and Cursed Campus in record time! Gomada Academy sets the stage for an epic battle that will take place with the ghost, while Cursed Campus has you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who the ghost is.
Did I mention it also ends on an amazing yet frustrating cliffhanger?! 😂😂 I need Book 3 STAT!
Thanks @cb.novelist for an amazing read ❤️🤩
#books #bookshelf #bookstore #ilovebooks #lovebooks #booksbooksbooks #bookshop #ebooks #bookshelves #bookstack #picturebooks #readmorebooks #booksarelife #newbooks #read #bookish #booknerd #bookaddict #bookaholic #reader #bookphotography #booklover #bookblogger #bookrecommendations #kindle #bookcommunity #booknerdigans #bookdragon #amreading #readingcommunity#gomadaacademy #cursedcampus
April 3, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Cursed Campus picked up right where Gomada Academy left off, Arya and Coles draw to one another takes a backseat to their duty to defend their school against whatever nasties prowl the campus. However Cole can’t help but find himself wanting to protect Arya.
I felt that Cole really did his best to grow & change for the better and I love his trajectory in this book. Arya is so relatable, the classic feeling of being unable to come up with a good comeback in the heat of the moment only to come up with the perfect response days later 😂
The no spice factor makes this book great for YA & adult fantasy readers alike, the pacing is wonderful - although it does end on a cliffhanger!
Cursed Campus picked up right where Gomada Academy left off, Arya and Coles draw to one another takes a backseat to their duty to defend their school against whatever nasties prowl the campus. However Cole can’t help but find himself wanting to protect Arya.
I felt that Cole really did his best to grow & change for the better and I love his trajectory in this book. Arya is so relatable, the classic feeling of being unable to come up with a good comeback in the heat of the moment only to come up with the perfect response days later 😂
The no spice factor makes this book great for YA & adult fantasy readers alike, the pacing is wonderful - although it does end on a cliffhanger!
January 18, 2025
Cursed Campus marks the thrilling second chapter in the mesmerizing Gomada Academy series, and it sweeps us into an unforgettable adventure with Cole and Arya. Though it ventures beyond my usual reading preferences—delving into the realm of young adult fiction with a hint of closed-door spice—it captivated me completely, leaving me breathless and on the razor's edge of my seat. A campus shrouded in enigma, woven with threads of death and infused with the enchantment of magic, beckons you to discover the secrets lurking within Gomada Academy. Embrace the journey—your heart will race and your soul will yearn for more!
March 2, 2025
Soooooo good!!!! Was in a chokehold and now must suffering waiting for the next book!!!! I love the story and the characters and of course the excitement!!!! Truly adore this author and her work!!!! If you haven’t read the series… run & do it now!!!
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