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Hell hath no fury like a girl pretending to be a boy at an all-demon university.

I thought surviving the first few months at Discordia was a win—until The Caliphate Games were announced.

Now, I’m being trained to fight in a deadly competition I shouldn’t qualify for, juggling bloodthirsty rich jerks, sneaky headmasters, and living with seven demon hybrids who are way too hot for my sanity.

Anyone who says girls have it easy is out of their freaking mind.

My new ‘brothers’ are bound to me by some ancient ritual magic, but every look, every accidental touch, every too-long stare has my scarred heart racing. Even Jasper, the snarky, brooding prince who hates me, gets my motor running, and he makes me want to throttle him.

They’re a distraction I can’t afford, especially when I’m just trying to survive.

As if that’s not enough, my powers are randomly waking up, making me a bigger target than ever. The headmaster’s neck-deep in some sinister scheme, the royal families are gearing up for a brawl, and if my magic doesn’t kill me, the truth about who I am just might.

What am I and where did I really come from?

The question isn’t if the guys will figure out my secret—it’s what happens when they do. Will they stand by me? Or will they let the world burn and leave me to go down with it?

Hell’s never been so hot, and I’m playing with fire in more ways than one.

***
Quiet Burn
is book two in the series Discordia University. Discordia University is a multi-book series where the main character does not have to choose as she navigates the mysteries and adventure in her tale. Fans of Zodiac Academy, Demon Reform Academy, Lexi C. Foss, and Jen Thorn will love this exciting series that is part of the Legends of the Ouroboros universe.

626 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2025

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About the author

Cassandra Featherstone

69 books1,122 followers
Cassandra Featherstone has channeled her lifelong passion for writing into a flourishing career, a journey that started when she first grasped a pencil as a gifted child with ADHD.

Her debut novel, born during the solitude of COVID lockdown in March 2020, draws on a tapestry of personal encounters and insights that resonate deeply with her readers.

An international bestseller, Cassandra has topped Amazon charts in categories such as LGBT Anthologies, LGBTQ+ Mystery, and Bisexual Romance, among others. Her works navigate the complexities of bullying, PTSD, body dysmorphia, mental health struggles, personal reinvention, and the empowerment of claiming one's own space. Importantly, Cassandra offers a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of LGBTQIA+ relationships, subtly reflecting her own connection with the community through her narratives.

Her literary repertoire spans sci-fi fantasy, urban fantasy, paranormal, and comedic genres in academy whychoose settings, with a strong commitment to portraying consensual, safe, and accurately depicted BDSM and kink lifestyles. Her books are an invitation to explore transformative stories that are both inclusive and engaging.

Often affectionately called ‘The Muppet’ for her wacky theater kid personality, she resides in the Midwest with her tech-savvy husband, their creatively inclined college student, a literary-minded dog, and four scheming cats.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
Profile Image for Ana.
73 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2025
I feel like the main character uses her anxiety issues to portray herself as a victim. She is a hostage to her problems and not a fighter. She always brings up this subject, she always weighs the mood with her problems and always imposes them on others, as if others were to blame. One of the male characters is being nice and she starts talking about how fucked up her life is, as if only her life is fucked up. There is no room for the other characters to talk about their traumas too. And just because you have problems doesn't mean you can treat people however you want. Another problem is that nothing happens in this book. It's just her going to class and coming back to her room. I've read several slow burn books with reverse harems and even without any kisses, there were things happening in the background of the story. And it's no big deal for her to hide the fact that she's a woman.
Profile Image for Rachel.
2,508 reviews136 followers
February 20, 2025
Not only is the hidden gender aspect still going strong, but now Cass has brought in another great troupe, and it was a hoot and a half. Kit thinks they're faking dating when the guys are actually dating her. It's a little funny when she gets all flustered and doesn't really know how to respond. All the while she's trying to keep her secret. I say let the chaos happen.


The guys are doing great. I absolutely adored them! Just picture me with big hearts in my eyes. The care that they showed Kit by learning her triggers, helping out when she has her episodes, and even doing research on her condition really got to my heart. I also got more insight into Jasper, and I have to say I don't hate him anymore. However, it was Slash who low-key stole my heart. Who knew the shark shifter had so many layers? I love that everyone's bonds are growing stronger and that the guys seem to fall fairly quickly for Kit.


Of course, I loved the plot. There was so much good stuff. Everything from school bullies to dealing with royal families, and not to mention a shady AF headmaster whose schemes have yet to come to fruition. Enemies are plentiful, and every one of them is taking aim at the caliphate. There were interesting power developments and more of Dank, who I find fascinating. Cass is working on a bigger plot, hence the easter eggs. I really do love how Cass connects some of her series together, and I'm dying now more than ever to know what the bigger picture is.


Cass really does like to tease her readers. She crushed me when I realized Quiet Burn ended on one of the moments that I'd been most anticipating. However, Cass pulled through for me. Thank gods for bonus scenes.
Profile Image for Beeth.
402 reviews7 followers
December 30, 2025
Okay, I was willing to put up with the constant mental health mentions at first, but it is so wildly repetitive that I got bored and started skimming any time it was brought up again. Not much happens in this book until like 80% in. I'm still enjoying the slow burn. There are so many unresolved plot lines, though!
Profile Image for Steph.
481 reviews79 followers
February 25, 2025
3.75 ⭐️/1 🌶️—This remains a slow burn, both in the romance and the plot. I really enjoyed it, although I think some of the content could have been edited out and the book condensed to help with pacing.
Profile Image for Kyra.
195 reviews39 followers
February 13, 2025
Okay I can not rave about this series enough!!! I finished book one and was so hurt I’d have more than a week before the next one(curse of short term memory🤣) so I did something completely new for me and went to find book two on Cassandra’s Ream! Oh. my. goodness. so freaking worth it!! I’m absolutely enamored with KitKats harem and I can’t even pick a favorite which is unheard of me. I will say Xerxes being enby and being compared to freaking Spike from Buffy is absolutely everything I never knew I needed. Buffy was my FAVORITE tv series for the longest time and I love it anytime a book or show has a reference, makes my heart so happy. I will be trying to patiently wait for book 3 now and wondering what the hell to do with myself without the Caliphate to entertain me.
Profile Image for Melo.
911 reviews29 followers
March 11, 2025
2.5* at a huge push. I liked book 1

I skipped a lot. By 50% I was beyond bored. By 80% I was annoyed, by 100% I was livid.

There are so many, many, many signs she's a girl. I actually got to the point of annoyance listening to her tirade. I'm a woman and I'm not that self absorbed. Book 2 and we are still trying to sell this.....???

So Kat still doesn't know about her magic, still extra mouthy, still clueless and screaming at the top of her lungs like a toddler... Why???

All the characters have not grown at all.

Re-reading this in prep for book 3 has left a sour taste.

All the characters have horrid backgrounds. We are talking Hell (fiery pits) bad. Yet Kat, human raised Kat, is front and centre. Again Why???

I liked the sexual inclusiveness in this series. Perhaps I expected more just because of that. More forward thinking and all that.

Also am I the only one that had to go back pages because it was a "who's talking" moment???

Sigh....... I'm so disappointed. If this was meant to be a MMMMMMM I just wish it was written that way. So far two books in, there is NOTHING that makes her a girl significant.
Profile Image for Amanda Crossland.
1,295 reviews12 followers
March 6, 2025
Great Book!

Spoiler alert, don’t read further if you don’t want to know specific details on this book.
First of all, I loved how the beginning had a summary of the first book. The first book was on my TBR pile for so long because of the whole secret girl identity, but it wasn’t just that, the relationships Kit Kat develops with the guys, at their own speed was what’s made the book. This second one, was a continuation of all the secret plots and games, physical threats, hard truths, and unearthed magical powers.
We still don’t know what Kit Kat is, but they suspect “he” is a triplesical. Someone with 3 different major powers, which is super freaken rare. “He” can stop time, “he” had a power that “woke up and opened its eyes” when Kit Kat was begging his magic to help. Kit Kat let out magical blast that amplified the aggression that everyone was already experiencing in their group sparring. It also allowed Kit Kat to nail the offenders with magically enhanced shuriken stars. Kit Kat even nailed one sucker in the eye. His demon seemed to suck in the pain of his attacks to make him stronger m, it’s to bad no one else discussed this after that huge fight. With the induction gone wrong at the end of the first book, Kit Kat had seen some scales on “his” body so we know “he’s” also a shifter of some sort. There wasn’t any more information on “his” shifting ability.
I’m really glad that Xerxes caught on to the fact that He was really a She. Thankfully, Kat was able to tell someone her secret and he wasn’t even mad. He had his suspicions for awhile and waited until the perfect time to bring it up.
Anton, kissed Kit Kat in class to bring him out of one of his panic attack induced trances, which has the academy in an uproar since Anton and Xerxes have been a thing since they were tiny. Orien, gets closer to Kit Kat, sticking up for “him” all the time when speaking with Jasper. Jasper and Kit Kat are like oil and water. Jasper is still suspicious of Kit Kat but still hasn’t let “him” off the hook. He knows Kit Kat has secrets, and Jasper being the leader needs to feel like he’s in control and knowing Kit Kats secrets would make him feel safe, but Ansel (aka anni) their tech guy can’t find a thing on him. At first I thought maybe it was because he was searching for “Kit Camponella”, instead of Kat Camponella. Now I think it’s more in line with who Kat really is and who her parents were. The Bone Tree lit up like the fire works on Canada Day when Kit Kat touched it, it also made her pass out. That is telling since the guys have never heard a bone tree to react like that. I wish there was more of a discussion after that. But Orien and I think Salem made a promise not to tell anyone. There’s something about Kit Kat that just makes the guys gravitate towards her, and that includes Jasper. Jaspers bedmate Zavinda is starting to speak up for Kit Kat too, against Jasper. Jasper feels so out of control when none of his family back him when it comes to Kit Kat, and with Zav falling for Kit Kat like everyone else is, it’s leaving Jasper feeling like he’s a fish out of water. Even Slash, Jaspers 2nd has fallen for Kit Kat. Slash has a soft spot for Kit Kat, talks with him about his health, training, eating and making sure Kit Kat feels safe. I truly loved these characters. That ending though, Salem her roomy realized Kit Kat didn’t have the obvious boner when they were kissing and Kit Kat finally told Salem he wasn’t a boy…. Then it ends. Ugh! Why Cassandra! I seriously can’t wait to read about all the guys finding out kit Kat isn’t a guy. I couldn’t put the book down, I just needed to read more and hope the secret came out in the next chapter, then the next… I seriously cannot for the next book.
Oh, the mental illness, anxiety and panic attacks were written really naturally. I feel like it was properly represented in this supernatural potential reverse harem book. Great Job Cassandra!
Profile Image for Michelle | the_unexpected_reader .
333 reviews34 followers
May 10, 2025
ARC Review: Quiet Burn
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️

Quiet Burn is a slow-burn, dark academia romantasy with an intriguing premise—a girl hiding her identity at an all-male demon university. The plot moves at a steady pace, focusing on character dynamics and world-building over fast action or romance payoff. The tension between the protagonist and her seven demon “brothers” simmers throughout, with emotional and magical stakes building steadily. While the romance stays teasingly out of reach, the character depth and mystery keep it compelling. It ends on a cliffhanger, promising bigger things to come. Good for fans of slow burn and secret identity tropes.

Thank you to @cfeatherstoneauthor and @literaryinspired for sending me an ARC to review!
808 reviews2 followers
April 23, 2025
Just an amazing and outstanding book. I love a good academy book but they are few and far between. This is so good and well written and slowly developing individual relationships within the harem. Slow slow burn but so so good!
Profile Image for Jessica Weston.
81 reviews6 followers
February 19, 2025
Quiet Burn by Cassandra Featherstone.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Please read tigger warnings before reading book.
A demon university, FMC pretending to be a guy, why choose romance and seven hot demon hybrids? Count me in 😂 I really enjoyed seeing Kat discover her powers more in book two, and see how the guys open up more towards her. I have completely fallen in love with Kit Kat and her potential harem of men not to mention the amazing and sassy Dottie her animal familiar. I devoured these two books and cannot wait for the third in the series.
Releases February 20th 🏃🏻‍♀️😊❤️
Profile Image for Diana_thebooknerd.
399 reviews138 followers
June 4, 2026
Lord save me from boring books

I tried. I really did. But God damnit it, the FMC is annoying the hell out of me. The chemistry between the characters is non-existent. And the writing was meh.
Profile Image for Becky.
509 reviews8 followers
February 20, 2025
This series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! This cast of characters have all wormed their way into my heart, even prickly pear Jasper. I devoured this book whole and will try to patiently wait for the next installment. Loved seeing how the relationships deepened in this installment. Kat is starting to heal and let the guys in slowly and it is a beautiful thing to see. The different POVs add so much to the story. I love seeing the guys’ reactions to the “little dude” in their midst. I loved seeing some familiar characters from Cassandra’s other series!! Love, love, love this story!
Profile Image for Paige.
37 reviews
October 7, 2025
I would give this half a star if I could!

My only excuse for reading this is that I wanted to read a light palate cleanser of a book (since the world is s*** rn (when is it not)), and after I rolled my eyes through book one, I was possessed by the need to know definitively if the second book was just as bad. 

I was wrong! It was worse. 

Imagine the Triwizard Tournament and the Hunger Games got together to make a demon baby, but instead of actually doing the deed, they just... Talked. About. It. Ad. Nauseum. And yet, despite all the talk, nothing is explained and the actual event itself remains a total mystery.

Consider my palate cleansed. I'm going to need to read something that is actually well written next, please!
Profile Image for laughingzebra.
833 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2025
3.5 stars

The plot is holding strong, especially for the RH genre. The second book in these series tends to fall into a fluff trap (no plot movement), but that doesn’t happen here. We get some answers and some of the secrets are shared. It’s an appropriate progression and I really appreciate that.

I also enjoy the gender swapping and inclusion because it makes the dynamics unique and fun. I like that mental illness issues are addressed too. I love to see these things normalized in books because they’re normal in real life.

The characters are all pretty unique and the friendships and romances are well developed. The dialogue is enjoyable and I found myself hoping the book wouldn’t end. This is really rare for me. I love RH series, but I almost always lose interest in book 2 or 3. This one hasn’t had any trouble holding my interest.

My only complaint is that the FMC has built an entire personality around her trauma and anxiety. While i appreciate the representation of PTSD/anxiety, it’s done to the extent that the character is obnoxious more than half the time. She’s ridiculously negative and turns every tiny thing into a crisis. Every other sentence is referring to “the incident” or how hard her life is. I mean, you aren’t the only one with trauma. At a certain point you’ve got to stop expecting the world to care. Stoping whining about every bump in the road. Come up with one optimistic thought every now and then. It’s seriously aggravating.

It’s worth forgiving and overlooking the issue for now. The character sincerely apologizes and is self aware. She’s also really funny and she has plenty of spine. So she’s got a lot going for her. I just wish we didn’t have to tolerate so much self pity.

Overall it’s really enjoyable and I’m looking forward to the next one.

Profile Image for amwp.
93 reviews18 followers
March 19, 2026
I understand trauma. But damn, what an obscenely selfish and quite frankly RUDE FMC. Not to mention the continuation of fundamental lies to every person she knows. AND bringing up her 'incident' in every single conversation she has. Let me tell you, the combativeness, defensiveness, and straight vitriole of Kit makes me take Jasper's side EVERY TIME. I cannot abide perma-victims. Not in real life, and not in books. They're fucking energy vampires.

If you're into a lot of repetition, tons of really obvious LGBT+ stuff which sometimes doesnt add to character dimensionor growth, absolutely zero spice with the FMC, damn near zero story progression, and an extremely unlikeable main character- then sure, this book is for you!

Sharky-boy remains my favorite of the not-a-harem. Followed by X, and then crow-boy. But they're all better than Kit. Cuz Kit is a selfish butthead with no personality.
Profile Image for Vega Starlight.
160 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2025
Solid 4 stars +
I love the characters, the harem, the world and the tropes! We still have our main secret girl and her harem-2-be. The banter is glorious, the dragon is thawing but still grumpy and the teachers suck. There will also be some quality cuddles(not spoiling who;)

What’s missing is some plot progression, add that and we are on a solid 5! Oh and you need the bonus scene between this and veiled flame before you continue.



**spoilers**
I do not like that the bonus scenes are driving the plot almost as much as the books.
Where are the games? I feel like the plot was forgotten.
Why are pandashifters hot all of a sudden?
Do we just completely ignore the tattoos and scales?
Profile Image for gatoreadsafterdark.
92 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2026
To say I inhaled this book would be an understatement. I had a countdown going for the audiobook as soon as it was announced. I was definitely pulled in when I read Veiled Flame. It was such a unique and interesting story, and the first book I read from this author. Quiet Burn was just the same. There were some things I felt iffy about but as a whole I loved this story.

I found it hard at times to keep up with what was going on or being said. The dialogue was very involved in certain instances and I had to rewind a couple times to make sure I understood everything. At one point I just downloaded the ebook on KU to reread certain parts.
The whole keep Kit/Kat in the dark situation was extremely annoying and frustrating. I mean, we dealt with this in book one from when she first met everyone and she asked for the rules REPEATEDLY. You would think Jasper would understand that he's putting his caliphate at a disadvantage by not divulging information to Kit/Kat by now. Having Kit/Kat have to continuously voice frustration about not understanding everything or being kept in the dark was a bit annoying.

Things I very much enjoyed were the care and consideration her caliphate (apart from Jasper) showed her and the fake/not fake dating situation with the guys. The latter was extremely cute and funny. I'm still a little confused about the dynamic between Kit/Kat and Jasper but since this is a multi book series with five planned books I expect we'll see that play out in subsequent books.

The mental health rep in this book is amazing. Seriously the best I've read. The journey and healing is extremely realistic, and I can really appreciate how the author is letting it play out. It's true to experience, so those reviewers who call it annoying, please reserve your comments on this aspect, because every trauma recovery journey is unique, as is healing with PTSD.

Okay so one thing I didn't realise when starting this series. This is series is interconnected with other books within a larger universe. I wish this was said in the beginning of the audiobook like it is in the ebook. I wouldn't have known had I not borrowed the ebook. Apparently the other series allow you to fully understand what's going on because they take place between books? There are also multiple bonus chapters that the author has on her website, which are also important to the plot. Again, this should be included in the audiobooks for those of us who prefer to listen to books most of the time.

I now must go back to read the Faetal Attraction Series, and the Secrets of State University to fill in some of the blanks before I start Zero Spark. Unfortunately it looks like those aren't on audio. The author lists the series crossover list on her website FYI

This is a slow burn romance, so little to no spice in the earlier books, but I actually really love that about the series. The build up is going to lead to amazing things later on I bet.

Overall I really loved this book and the characters. I really enjoyed the pacing and world building. Definitely recommend for slow burn, why choose, romantasy, paranormal, etc. etc.
Profile Image for Ellen.
372 reviews
March 22, 2025
Nice slow burn. 5 stars.


In this book. (**SPOILERS**):

Kit Kat is showing more powers. She is living in denial that the powers are there, and that she has feelings for her friends in her group. X (snake/lust) already knows Kit's a girl and they offer to help keep her secret from the others for now. Salem (panda/sloth?) finds out at the end though when he's making out with Kit.

- Jasper (dragon/wrath?) is trying to be nicer to Kit. And figure out what the headmaster is up to with these supposed death games.
- Zav (fox/envy?) is trying to help keep Jasper calm and get closer to Kit while doing his thing with hacking to help keep the group informed/safe. He figured out early on that Kit is a bit of a "Brat" and that everyone in the group is attracted in some way, and the only one who was really going about it the wrong way was Jas, so Zav is trying to help him tone down Jas' antagonistic tendencies.
- Oriel (crow/greed) is becoming very close with Kit. Him, Salem, X, and Anton show Kit their animal sides, and they all have like a snoozy puppy pile in the living room. Cute! Oriel even takes some clothes from his treasure horde and gives them to Kit.
- Anton (peacock/pride) is X's boyfriend and they both know they like Kit, and assume she will join their relationship one day. Only problem is that Anton doesn't know yet that Kit's not actually a boy.
- Slash (shark/gluttony?) is the right-hand man / militaristic general type to Jas' leader role. Slash starts to ignore Jas tho when it comes to Kit, bc Slash is much more understanding of Kit's needs. He worries over Kit like a mother hen. So cute and sweet 🥹

This book was mainly about the group learning to trust each other more and grow closer. It's still a very slow burn so there's only been a couple of kisses so far (aside from some MM bj's that Zav/sub gives Jas/Dom. I could do without the sub/Dom stuff myself).

Also in this book - Kit has like a forced dream of some garden realm with a mysterious cloaked figure who knows who and what Kit is, but didn't reveal that yet bc Kit is "not ready." I mean no shit, Kit has panic attacks, breakdowns, space outs, etc on the reg. I have a few guesses about what Kit is but not much to go off to know for sure yet. She's been told about a tri-natured being that hasn't existed in a long time, and she's almost definitely that. But what are her 3 natures? Some kind of animal shifter (like a Phoenix)?.. some kind of demon.. and some kind of fae or demi-deity or something? Or like gargoyle? She definitely has an ability that brings the evil in others out to the forefront...
Anyway, I guess time will tell.

I just don't know when the next book comes out and now I'm bummed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sabrina Mordini.
591 reviews15 followers
February 24, 2025
Quiet Burn continues Kat’s journey at Discordia, an all-demon university where she’s been hiding in plain sight, disguised as a boy. After surviving her first few weeks, things only get more dangerous with the announcement of The Caliphate Games—a deadly competition she shouldn’t even qualify for. Between her newly awakening powers, the school’s shady headmaster, and the growing tension among the demon royals, Kat has her hands full. Add in seven demon hybrids bound to her by ancient magic, and her situation is anything but simple.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its character work. With a large cast, it would be easy for relationships to feel rushed or shallow, but that’s not the case here. Instead, the slow-burn approach allows real connections to form over time. Kat’s bonds with the guys develop gradually, full of tension, uncertainty, and trust-building moments that feel earned rather than forced. The novel also does an excellent job portraying trauma and its lingering effects. Kat may feel safer at Discordia, but that doesn’t erase her past. She still struggles with trust, battles a deeply ingrained touch phobia, and faces constant self-doubt. Her progress is realistic, and the book doesn’t take the easy route of having her “healed” just because she’s no longer in immediate danger.

That said, readers should go in with the right expectations. The book is marketed with tags like reverse harem, polyamory, and deadly trials, but these elements are only just beginning to unfold. The romance remains very slow-burn—Kat shares only a single kiss with one love interest, and the only spicy scene involves two side characters. The Caliphate Games are introduced but don’t take center stage yet. If you’re looking for immediate action or a fast-moving romance, you might feel a bit misled.

Still, Quiet Burn is a solid installment that lays strong groundwork for what’s to come. The worldbuilding is intriguing, the character dynamics are engaging, and the tension—both romantic and plot-driven—keeps building. If you’re in it for the long game and enjoy slow-burn relationships, hidden identity tropes, and complex character development, this series is worth sticking with.
1,014 reviews20 followers
March 1, 2025
Quiet Burn, second book in the Discordia University series by Cassandra Featherstone, is the story of Katerina Camponella, who received a full scholarship to what turned out to be a demon university. This problem was that the university was a male only institution, and since Kat (now called Kit) arrived she had become a target for students and professors alike with no idea why. How did human get into a demon university and how will she stay alive now they are expected to participate in the deadly Caliphate Games? The members of her Caliphate, a group of seven very handsome royal demon/shifter hybrids with whom she completed an ancient bonding ritual, have committed themselves to keep her safe by fake-dating her. As this novel progresses, Kit/Kat learns more about herself, gains more confidence and a sense of belonging for the first time in her life. This is definitely a super slow burn, why choose, dark academia, paranormal romance. It has taken two novels to work up to hugging and a little kissing. The demons in her Caliphate are all becoming smitten with her, and she is learning things about herself which only leads to more questions. I love Kit/Kat’s snarky banter and her penchant for finding trouble. I am finding the eight POV entertaining and it helps to get to know the inner thoughts of all of the main characters. The world building has been fascinating, and I am truly enjoying this complex story. It does take concentration to keep all the different POV straight, and it is less confusing than the first book.Now that the groundwork has been laid to follow eight different perspectives. The foreshadowing in this book suggests that Kat is different from her peers at Discordia U in more ways than gender, and I am intrigued to find out what direction, other than the obvious, this series will take. I recommend this series for readers who enjoy why choose, dark academia, paranormal romance novels, while noting that there are a number of trigger warnings and that the series is expected to become quite spicy by the end.

Thanks you to Literary Inspired ARCs for gifting this ARC. I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Profile Image for Jaime Cantrell.
928 reviews21 followers
March 15, 2026
Quiet Burn: Discordia University, Book 2 by Cassandra Featherstone continues Kat’s story as the stakes at Discordia University grow even more dangerous.

After barely surviving her introduction to the strange and secretive academy, Kat now finds herself pulled into the Caliphate Games, a brutal competition she was never meant to be part of. Between training for something that could easily get her killed and navigating the complicated dynamics of living with seven demon hybrids, her life at Discordia only becomes more chaotic.

What I continue to enjoy about this series is the balance between supernatural intrigue and character tension. Kat is still trying to understand her place in a world she didn’t even know existed, and as her abilities begin to surface, the mystery around who she really is deepens. At the same time, the relationships around her grow more complicated, with plenty of friction, curiosity, and moments that keep the emotional tension simmering.

The academy itself also continues to feel like a character in its own right. Between political maneuvering, secret agendas, and the looming danger of the Games, the story keeps building toward something bigger without revealing all its cards too early.

The audiobook narration once again adds a lot to the experience. Ada Sinclair and Christian Black both do a great job capturing the personalities of the characters and helping the dialogue flow naturally. Their performances make it easy to stay immersed in the story and help bring the tension and humor of the cast to life.

Overall, this second installment builds nicely on the foundation of the first book, expanding the world while raising the stakes for Kat and everyone around her.

If you enjoy paranormal academy settings, demon lore, reverse-harem dynamics, and an ongoing mystery that continues to unfold across the series, this audiobook is a strong continuation of the Discordia University story.

As always be mindful of trigger warnings, what I like you may not.

Happy Listening! 🎧📚
Profile Image for Courtney (Bookish Blonde Barista).
621 reviews
February 17, 2025
Okay, I cannot say enough about this series!!! After finishing Veiled Flame, I was absolutely gutted knowing I had to wait for Quiet Burn.
I am completely obsessed with Kit/Kat’s harem, and for the first time ever, I can’t even pick a favorite. (Unheard of for me!) But I will say, Xerxes being enby AND getting compared to freaking Spike from Buffy? That is everything I never knew I needed. Buffy was my all-time favorite show for years, so anytime a book sneaks in a reference, my heart does a little happy dance.
Quiet Burn picks up right after the brutal attack Kit/Kat survived in book one. Now, to stay safe, they’re fake-dating Jasper (which, side note—read the bonus scene because it’s great). The secrecy of the Games intensifies, and while Kit/Kat is still trying to hide her gender in an all-boys demon academy, her growing powers and deepening relationships with the caliphate make it harder and harder to keep the truth under wraps. I was especially surprised by how much her dynamic with Slash developed—I totally thought Anton would take that spot over him. Meanwhile, Jasper still has some work to do, but I’m loving the slow burn.
Speaking of slow burn—can we talk about how well-paced this book is? Nothing feels rushed, and every moment builds perfectly, but there are times where it was too slow. The humor is top-tier, too. Kit/Kat’s sarcasm is GOLD, and I love how it carries over into her banter with the guys. Plus, the way this book handles trauma is raw, real, and refreshingly well done. The caliphate doesn’t dismiss her struggles or try to “fix” her—they just support her, and I adore that.

🖤Length: 643 Pages
🖤Genre: Paranormal Romance
🖤Spice: Slow Burn
🖤Violence: 🔥🔥
🖤Editing: Nothing that pulled me from the story
🖤Series: Discordia University
🖤Ending: Cliffhanger

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Chante Heaven.
1,005 reviews22 followers
February 21, 2025
Welcome to book two of Discordia University series.

This series continues to impress with its brilliant, in-depth, and descriptive storytelling. The world of Discordia truly grows with each page you turn, and I, as a reader, felt that I got to learn alongside Kit/Kat, absorbing all manner of needed information.

The interplay between the characters is nothing short of captivating. The dynamics are complex and fascinating to watch unfold, and in some cases, the interactions are downright hilarious! The constant snarky banter between Kit and Jasper provides endless amusement, adding a delightful layer of humor with sarcasm laced through every interaction. Seeing the other characters grow and change was pleasant, and Jasper's inability to change even fits neatly into the character development.

It was also sweet to watch each of the characters step up to not only try to keep Kit safe, but also to help with his/her anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD. While they all have trauma in their backgrounds, their understanding of Kit's was sweet and adorable, showing how each are effected by their new friend.

The storyline and plot are wonderfully crafted, weaving together a tapestry of secrets, intrigue, political maneuvering, and palpable danger. The challenges and mysteries that follow Kit, in particular, kept me utterly hooked from the very first page, eagerly anticipating what twists and turns lay ahead. But it also leaves so many unanswered questions, and that cliffhanger! I so wish I could have kept reading; I didn't want the book to end, and now I'm hanging out for book three, which I think is going to become one of my favorite series.
213 reviews5 followers
February 24, 2025
Phenomenal

DU book 2 was just perfection.
The book picks up pretty quickly after the bonus scene conversation from Veiled Flame with the boy band agreeing that a fake dating situationship within the whole group is best for everyone in keeping everyone but especially KitKat safe...queue snarky panic.
I found that the MC's were calmer within themselves and their surroundings in this book than the first, but there was less panic from all of them as a group, even with all the challenges being thrown at them by evil parents and super villains headmasters and bitchy classmates.
I love the snuggle piles and meeting the other sides to the guys.
But I think more than anything I'm in love with how invested they all became in each other so quickly and not in a romantic way but in a "he's now our brother and nobody messes with our family" and that the other members of the caliphate are coming out of their shells a bit more too.
I love the cameo from Gui, and the group from State U, I'm desperate to find out how the caliphate will go meeting Rogue and her crew and then when they all eventually meet up with Jolene and her family.
Plus that ending. Salem is in for a ride with that ending.
This series hits so many of my favourite tropes: hidden girl, slow burn, enbie characters, magic , why choose, hybrids, mythology, university age and many more.
This book is thiccc, but be patient because it's worth it.
496 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up.
I loved the first book and was very excited to read the second. Normally with series I take a break and read another book so I don't get too immersed in the world. Not this one. I wanted to jump back in. I am a sucker for a hidden gender plot and it is still holding strong in this book. Which is still baffling because of the way Kit asks. Again, maybe they really don't care what Kit is. They are just happy to have her.
However, not much happened in this book. It's barely even been 4 weeks and they still don't know what she is, what her powers are, or even who she is? Also, it has only been 4 weeks and they are pressuring her to remember EVERYTHING, do everything. Her powers shouldn't come out that fast, right?
I am loving the harem, even though no one knows it's a harem, yet. Jasper is becoming a bit better in terms of letting things go. Kit makes me annoyed with the amount of excuses she gets because of her traumatic past. Honey, they have all had a traumatic past, you aren't the only one. Also this book had a bit more errors where they said someone was in a class when they shouldn't have been in class. Or someone was covered in goo and then it switches POVS and said person shouldn't have known they were covered in goo. That got annoying.
All in all a good book but it could have been broken down more, edited, and proof read a bit more.
Also, did you see the reading order that this should have been read in? How many books are even in this series?
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,516 reviews44 followers
February 20, 2025
Slowest burn with a cliffy

So I absolutely love this series and I can not wait for more. 

The characters are diverse and all have their own issues. This book really brings the characters together more and also gives us more insight to each character. 

Kit/Kat is our anxiety ridden FMC who is pretending to be a man since she is enrolled at an all male school. She spent all her life prior to the academy being abused in one way or the other. She came from an all human existence to a demon academy. 

We have our demon/shifter hybrids who are finding themselves more and more drawn to the new little demon in their group. 

This book definitely shows the changes going on with all of the characters. Everyone is slowly having to deal with more emotions surrounding Kit Kat. Kit is also learning to trust and accept touch. 

Can they ever let their group know that Kit is actually Kat for real? What is going to happen with these games? What exactly is Kat? 

I am so in love with these characters. I seriously want to cuddle Salem by the way.  I love learning about hell and demons with Kit. The political parts are intriguing and I typically hate politics. Also, cuddle puddle...lol

I cannot wait to see what comes next.


Profile Image for Bec.
47 reviews
February 26, 2025
Firstly, make sure you sign up for the author's newsletter and get those two bonus chapter after Veiled Flame, YOU ARE GOING TO NEED THEM!!!

I love this series so much!!! I have been bombarding my close friends with my favourite lines cause I need to share that badly. I just adore how each character is unique, and they all stay true to themselves throughout this book. The relationships are slowly continuing to develop, but with everyone being so accepting and understanding of his/her needs (arghhh #goal right?!?!?!?!). Also hands up if you want to join a cuddle pile 🙋‍♀️

In this book, the university has announced a deadly game that has been forbidden for decades, and our group need to work together so they can all survive. Strange things are starting to happen to Kit Kat and stranger things are starting to happen around the academy. Someone is definitely pulling strings, but who?

If you liked the first one, you will continue to like this one too. I would not rate this higher or lower then the first, it is just as excellent!!! All the representations from the first one continues on in this one, never neglecting or minimising.

I can not talk enough about how much I loved this and how you should continue reading this amazing series.
Profile Image for Cheyenne Rousseau.
1,560 reviews8 followers
October 4, 2025
Not gonna lie, that ending was kind of insane. If you haven’t read it, read it. I can’t wait to find out how everyone’s gonna react to the revelation.

X Took it all in stride. They didn’t react badly, so we shall see how the rest of them do.

This book was a slow going on the romance as the last one which isn’t an issue. Kit/Kat is realising that she likes all of the members of their Demon boy band lol. And they’re all coming to terms with their feelings for him as well.

We did get more questions in this as far as her lineage and exactly who she comes from. I had a guess but when that power manifested during class, it completely took my guess and threw it out so I don’t know anymore.


I was kind of going along the lines of what I know about Pandora’s box and the curses as some people referred to them as which are known as the seven deadly sins. And there was the major seven that everybody knows about, but there’s always that last one that no one ever remembers.

So if you know what I’m talking about, you should know what my guess was but again the way her power is manifested during class when a completely different route than that so I don’t know if that’s still a possibility or not.

I’m really excited to find out just exactly what her role is and what the prophecy was and all of that jazz. I also can’t wait to figure out what the deal with the necklace is.


Anyways, November needs to come faster so I can read book 3
Profile Image for Ines.
1,403 reviews51 followers
February 21, 2025
I absolutely love this series! It’s a quiet and slow burn, more like a smouldering fire where the embers are hidden, but I just know the fire will be epic once it truly starts burning! And once it does, it will be built on such a solid base of friendship and love, I can’t wait to watch it happen. But the way to get there is just as amazing. I love these characters, and I would honestly rather be with them in hell right now than in the present world where the real demons seem to live.

It’s hard to pick out favorite characters in this series, because they’re all great in their own way. In this book, I think Xerxses was my favorite, but the distance between him and the others is minimal. Even the prince from hell is gaining points, mostly because I love the interactions between him and Kit/Kat. The way they accept others, no matter their past, how they present, who they love, … The world would be a better place if everyone was like them.

I’m really excited to find out what book three will bring! But the same can be said about some other series this author is writing, so I’ll be excited to get my hands on whatever comes next anyway!
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