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Emberhold Academy Series #1
Exordium
Emberhold Academy is where Aurathians go to form their Faction or die trying.
The only acceptable outcome for me is the first option.
My name is Reverie Hawthorne, and I'm the only child of the most powerful Faction in existence...
Or what's left of them.
Great things are expected of me.
I will deliver.
Armed with the secret knowledge of my Nexus status, I'll show them what real power looks like.
Now, all I have to do is navigate through mean girls, Dark Faction, and corrupt council members, all while trying to find my Faction.
Sounds simple, right?
Unfortunately, in my world, nothing ever is.
*Exordium is a full-length reverse harem PNR Novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. This book will end on a cliffhanger. It's recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations.
The only acceptable outcome for me is the first option.
My name is Reverie Hawthorne, and I'm the only child of the most powerful Faction in existence...
Or what's left of them.
Great things are expected of me.
I will deliver.
Armed with the secret knowledge of my Nexus status, I'll show them what real power looks like.
Now, all I have to do is navigate through mean girls, Dark Faction, and corrupt council members, all while trying to find my Faction.
Sounds simple, right?
Unfortunately, in my world, nothing ever is.
*Exordium is a full-length reverse harem PNR Novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. This book will end on a cliffhanger. It's recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2025
1592 people are currently reading
1355 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
March 9, 2025
I was expecting a lot of this book. The premise sounds great
But I was slightly disappointed. It didn't meet my hopes fully.
The worldbuilding is really well done, creative and easy to understand.
The FMC was easy to understand and likable, easy to root for.
The love interests, while distinguishable between each other and each one with a different personality. But there were a little plain and I didn't care for them.
Then, my biggest issue with this book was the rapes perpretrated by the love interests towards the FMC. There are two different examples. She resisted but because she ended up liking it, it was okay? WTF. And then it was brushed off.
But I was slightly disappointed. It didn't meet my hopes fully.
The worldbuilding is really well done, creative and easy to understand.
The FMC was easy to understand and likable, easy to root for.
The love interests, while distinguishable between each other and each one with a different personality. But there were a little plain and I didn't care for them.
Then, my biggest issue with this book was the rapes perpretrated by the love interests towards the FMC. There are two different examples. She resisted but because she ended up liking it, it was okay? WTF. And then it was brushed off.
March 8, 2025
Emberhold Academy book 1
I am a huge fan of the pnr, bonding, academy and rh genre, so I jumped on this once I read the description. I really wanted to love this, because I always need a new series! But, this one just didn't do it for me. On the good side this is a pretty good plot, a fresh new world. It suits the genre in expected ways, academy and trials, forming magical bonds with multiple characters, etc. But the characters are simply awkward. The humor is juvenile, and the language is irritating. Why do women refer to their friends as witch with a b? Then two of her bonds basically have forced sexual contact with her, and she saying no, no, no, but then it feels so good it's ok. Just wrong. The mean girls are pitiful and everyone punches everyone in the nose? Nathan's character is cringy and Oren is presented as mustache twirling ridiculous. Oh but that's all ok because they are her faction! Imo this could be an excellent vehicle if the characters all grew up and spoke like adults (including her parents). Fart jokes and Step-Brothers aren't that funny. Also, commas are everywhere, not needed.
I am a huge fan of the pnr, bonding, academy and rh genre, so I jumped on this once I read the description. I really wanted to love this, because I always need a new series! But, this one just didn't do it for me. On the good side this is a pretty good plot, a fresh new world. It suits the genre in expected ways, academy and trials, forming magical bonds with multiple characters, etc. But the characters are simply awkward. The humor is juvenile, and the language is irritating. Why do women refer to their friends as witch with a b? Then two of her bonds basically have forced sexual contact with her, and she saying no, no, no, but then it feels so good it's ok. Just wrong. The mean girls are pitiful and everyone punches everyone in the nose? Nathan's character is cringy and Oren is presented as mustache twirling ridiculous. Oh but that's all ok because they are her faction! Imo this could be an excellent vehicle if the characters all grew up and spoke like adults (including her parents). Fart jokes and Step-Brothers aren't that funny. Also, commas are everywhere, not needed.
April 5, 2025
..... Creed? Stained?
Next, it's going to be Nickleback. Godsmack. etc.
Then the Minions references.
I feel so judgy, but that's the vibe of this book.
But add in sexual assaults by love interests but... she liked it so it's totally okay. I think stuff like that is fine in fiction, but I want explicit warnings. And no, I shouldn't have to add traffic to an author's website to find the trigger warnings. Lazy.
It sucks cause the world-building was actually pretty interesting. I just don't like stories where the main love interests rape and/or violate the consent of the FL. I have read so many books where SA is explored well, but this isn't it.
I probably would have given this 4 stars if it wasn't so rapey and cringy in some parts.
Next, it's going to be Nickleback. Godsmack. etc.
Then the Minions references.
I feel so judgy, but that's the vibe of this book.
But add in sexual assaults by love interests but... she liked it so it's totally okay. I think stuff like that is fine in fiction, but I want explicit warnings. And no, I shouldn't have to add traffic to an author's website to find the trigger warnings. Lazy.
It sucks cause the world-building was actually pretty interesting. I just don't like stories where the main love interests rape and/or violate the consent of the FL. I have read so many books where SA is explored well, but this isn't it.
I probably would have given this 4 stars if it wasn't so rapey and cringy in some parts.
July 24, 2025
Taken in again by a gorgeous cover.
Writing was amateur
Storytelling was a mess; how flashbacks were used was especially bad
Series arc was not established
Plot-driven storyline, like so many of these types of 'trial' scenarios, made no sense (hilariously highlighted in chapter 10 by the douchiest male lead)
Characters were juvenile and obnoxious
Lead character 'special-ness' was off the charts
Relationship-building was insta-lust with a side of assholery
'I decide' declares the female lead as she's being sexually assaulted... and then spreads her legs for the guy (Dear Authors, badass characters do not rollover for rapists)
Psychological instability and sexual assault were romanticized in the worse, most naive way possible
Do not recommend.
Writing was amateur
Storytelling was a mess; how flashbacks were used was especially bad
Series arc was not established
Plot-driven storyline, like so many of these types of 'trial' scenarios, made no sense (hilariously highlighted in chapter 10 by the douchiest male lead)
Characters were juvenile and obnoxious
Lead character 'special-ness' was off the charts
Relationship-building was insta-lust with a side of assholery
'I decide' declares the female lead as she's being sexually assaulted... and then spreads her legs for the guy (Dear Authors, badass characters do not rollover for rapists)
Psychological instability and sexual assault were romanticized in the worse, most naive way possible
Do not recommend.
July 15, 2025
DNF at 60% - So just to be super clear, the main character is r*ped by the first love interest we are introduced to who she “loves” throughout the whole book and is in a relationship with. And it’s brushed off. But somehow it’s ok because they’re like soulmates or whatever and the guy KNOWS she loves him (she has verbally told him to leave her tf alone for years) even though she literally was screaming and trying to FIGHT HIM OFF until halfway through. Like this is a textbook EVIL MAN.
“Knowing I should be horrified by my actions; bewildered that I wasn’t. I now felt a sense of belonging and rightness. I knew I still had a fight on my hands, but there were simply no lengths I wouldn’t go to make her mine.”
HOW did a woman write this and think oh ya this is what I want in my book I have complete control of THIS is romance???
“Knowing I should be horrified by my actions; bewildered that I wasn’t. I now felt a sense of belonging and rightness. I knew I still had a fight on my hands, but there were simply no lengths I wouldn’t go to make her mine.”
HOW did a woman write this and think oh ya this is what I want in my book I have complete control of THIS is romance???
September 19, 2025
4.75⭐️
March 8, 2025
These characters endeared themselves to me quickly. Nathan's obsession with his Nexi was disturbingly adorable, and I loved it. The twins were close to matching it, but it wasn't as deeply rooted because they hadn't had a childhood together with Reverie like Nathan did. There was no mistaking their connection to her though. Chloe is a fantastic bestie, and the two of them together are a riot. Jet is the stoic mysterious one who I'm looking forward to cracking his shell, and Storm is the one who is going to have to earn forgiveness all the way around and in between the cracks his actions caused. Reverie's familiar is an added bonus.
I don't normally enjoy cliffies, even though I understand why they exist, but I relished the surprise of this one. This is a debut worth taking a risk on, and I am stoked to see it continue.
I don't normally enjoy cliffies, even though I understand why they exist, but I relished the surprise of this one. This is a debut worth taking a risk on, and I am stoked to see it continue.
May 16, 2025
It was promising, it would have been solid 4stars, then the first assault was revealed and it fell..
It COULD have been overlooked as plotdevice to show the obsession and mania I guess, still hatedit.
BUT THEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN!?
Good for those who like noncon, but I HATE IT and would have loved a warning. If I had physical copy of this, I'd burn it, that's how mad I am after finishing this.
RAPE AND ASSAULT ARE NOT SEXY NOR ARE THEY ROMANTIC!!!
Nor are they ok "cuz I had traumatic life and it needs to be done to protect you".
Why the eff would the author make not one but TWO of the damn harem rape the FMC???!!
It COULD have been overlooked as plotdevice to show the obsession and mania I guess, still hatedit.
BUT THEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN!?
Good for those who like noncon, but I HATE IT and would have loved a warning. If I had physical copy of this, I'd burn it, that's how mad I am after finishing this.
RAPE AND ASSAULT ARE NOT SEXY NOR ARE THEY ROMANTIC!!!
Nor are they ok "cuz I had traumatic life and it needs to be done to protect you".
Why the eff would the author make not one but TWO of the damn harem rape the FMC???!!
June 23, 2025
⭐️:4.5/5
🌶:2.5/5
RH: medium size(5),why choose
At the beginning I thought it wouldn't be very interesting, but the ending is so good.
Reverie : i love her family
Nathan: sweet psycho, i love him, he is my new book boyfriend, it's a shame there isn't a book about how Nathan and Reverie met, because I would have loved to read it.
Oren: #ShitStormonhisassonceagain, I didn't like it in the beginning, but in the end it's great.
Jet: the tallest boy
Zaka and Zane: twins
This book really surprised me and I can find out what happens.
🌶:2.5/5
RH: medium size(5),why choose
At the beginning I thought it wouldn't be very interesting, but the ending is so good.
Reverie : i love her family
Nathan: sweet psycho, i love him, he is my new book boyfriend, it's a shame there isn't a book about how Nathan and Reverie met, because I would have loved to read it.
Oren: #ShitStormonhisassonceagain, I didn't like it in the beginning, but in the end it's great.
Jet: the tallest boy
Zaka and Zane: twins
This book really surprised me and I can find out what happens.
March 7, 2025
Finished in one sitting! Loved it!
March 30, 2025
Refreshing.
Now that is how you introduce a new series.
I actually found myself laughing out loud at points. This book was actually, without reaching on my tippy toes for the sandwich effect, entertaining. I was sad for it to end because it was getting really engaging. That cliff hanger.... September next year!!!! I hope book 2 comes out sooner.
Questions about the timeline though.... 20 years and there some who don't remember their lineage? Maybe a bit more world build...? The semi con going on with the smut, not a fan but it wasn't horrible like what I've read lately.
I was sold as soon as the men read as unhinged lol takes a very good author to juggle crazy.
Recommend this one.
Now that is how you introduce a new series.
I actually found myself laughing out loud at points. This book was actually, without reaching on my tippy toes for the sandwich effect, entertaining. I was sad for it to end because it was getting really engaging. That cliff hanger.... September next year!!!! I hope book 2 comes out sooner.
Questions about the timeline though.... 20 years and there some who don't remember their lineage? Maybe a bit more world build...? The semi con going on with the smut, not a fan but it wasn't horrible like what I've read lately.
I was sold as soon as the men read as unhinged lol takes a very good author to juggle crazy.
Recommend this one.
April 8, 2025
DNF 45%
While the instalust is threaded and central to the world building of this story, the characters still remain flat and interchangeable. The FMC is the most of everything. The most beautiful, the most skilled, the most sassy, the most delicious, the most powerful - etc. Her faction seems to be all made up of (the most) psychotic and tall/strong men possible. What passes for psychotic is the fact that they're all agro-possessive hunks who like blood. But the FMC is of course *the most* psychotic of the bunch. Pass...
While the instalust is threaded and central to the world building of this story, the characters still remain flat and interchangeable. The FMC is the most of everything. The most beautiful, the most skilled, the most sassy, the most delicious, the most powerful - etc. Her faction seems to be all made up of (the most) psychotic and tall/strong men possible. What passes for psychotic is the fact that they're all agro-possessive hunks who like blood. But the FMC is of course *the most* psychotic of the bunch. Pass...
April 14, 2025
I tried and hoped it was gonna improved, but the TSTL just kept being front and center. Then you add in that finding your group is supposed to be super complicated, but for the FMC here, it just is an easy walk in the park because she is just super special and not like other girls. I'm gonna DNF
Read
May 23, 2025dnf 15% trying to figure out how you get to third base in jeans…in class 🫠
March 6, 2025
Fantastic world building and emotionally complex characters. Reverie is a strong, capable fmc, who has been training most of her life. She stands up for herself and those she loves, i.e. Nathan. Loved Nathan, a cinnamon roll psycho who will do anything for Reverie. The twins are funny, hot and caring. Oren is non of these things, oh well, I suppose he is gorgeous but he also deserves every punch he receives. I think I counted five, but it could have been more. Plus this book is hot, I’ve read some similar books where you need to be three books in before the spice hits. This is not that.
The ending sucked! How could you do that to Gigantor? Make it right or I will riot!
But tbh, all I really want to know is, how quickly can you write the next book? Asking for a friend.
The ending sucked! How could you do that to Gigantor? Make it right or I will riot!
But tbh, all I really want to know is, how quickly can you write the next book? Asking for a friend.
April 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ (for now)
I’m honestly not sure how I feel about this one yet … I think I need a proper reread. I found myself skimming quite a bit, and I can’t tell if that’s on me (my brain’s been weird lately) or if it was the writing style. There were moments where the characters’ banter felt like filler, and I wished more of that time was spent pushing the plot forward.
That said, I did enjoy the overall story, and I’m definitely curious to see where it’s headed. Also? I laughed out loud multiple times … usually when someone got punched by Reverie, which I feel says a lot about me.
I’ll be circling back with a more solid review once I give it the full attention it deserves
I’m honestly not sure how I feel about this one yet … I think I need a proper reread. I found myself skimming quite a bit, and I can’t tell if that’s on me (my brain’s been weird lately) or if it was the writing style. There were moments where the characters’ banter felt like filler, and I wished more of that time was spent pushing the plot forward.
That said, I did enjoy the overall story, and I’m definitely curious to see where it’s headed. Also? I laughed out loud multiple times … usually when someone got punched by Reverie, which I feel says a lot about me.
I’ll be circling back with a more solid review once I give it the full attention it deserves
April 23, 2025
I liked the idea behind this book, and it was entertaining. The world was cool. the characters were a bit over the top and got to be annoying, but I enjoyed the book enough. if I remember the 2nd book when it comes out, I will read it.
March 16, 2025
Was gonna give this book 4 stars until the fmc instantly forgave Orion 😒 for someone who's supposed to be badass she sure forgives easily... Disappointing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2025
What a great read! Reverie is a bada** main character. Chloe, the light hearted bestie, and oh those possessive boys! There is action, comedy, parts that will tug at your emotions, and of course some spice. I think my favorite line would have to be #ShitStormonhisassonceagain. I can’t wait for book 2!
March 7, 2025
Absolutely brilliant
This was absolutely brilliant, i can't believe this is the author's first book!! It is so well written with a really unique magic system, great world building, twists and turns you don't see coming and amazingly awoon worthy mmcs. I cannot wait for book 2!!!
This was absolutely brilliant, i can't believe this is the author's first book!! It is so well written with a really unique magic system, great world building, twists and turns you don't see coming and amazingly awoon worthy mmcs. I cannot wait for book 2!!!
March 6, 2025
I LOVED IT!
Fast paced, paranormal/fantasy/why choose romance. I absolutely love the MFC Reverie! Lots of good banter. And a good storyline! I can’t wait until the next book!
Fast paced, paranormal/fantasy/why choose romance. I absolutely love the MFC Reverie! Lots of good banter. And a good storyline! I can’t wait until the next book!
July 7, 2025
I cannot believe I didn’t review this book on Goodreads!! 😩 I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book! I read it when it was first released and have since read it three more times. Reverie (how cool is that for a name!!) is part of a supernatural society who’s world was war torn before she was born. Her mom and two of her fathers were able to escape and make a life for themselves in the human realm. At a certain age Aurathians go to a school to find their factions, this is the family unit they operate in. Before Reverie can go she ends up finding a “passive” Aurathian who is one of her faction. Weirdly she had been pushing him away for most of their childhood because she thought he was human, and was going to risk heartbreak since she couldn’t bond with him. But BAM, his persistence pays off damned he’s one of hers! These two are absolutely adorable but also the snark and comedy keeps me laughing even though I’ve read it several times! Soo much happens when she’s able to get to Emberhold Academy, so many hot guys that can potentially join her faction. A bestie!! And drama, a little from a group of petty girls, but our Reverie can hold her own from them. It’s the world drama that’s like chefs kiss! I love a good heroine that’s no nonsense but is also caring and has a decent moral compass. I love this unique world Frankie James has created, I read a lot of PNR and this is a story I have not read before. And the plot line, pshh, I never know what’s going to happen next! Love being on my toes and being surprised! Heads up the second installment is releasing 7/8 so you have tonight to get caught up on this world! And for the love of all things holy PLEASE READ THIS SERIES! It’s literally lived in my head since the first book released a few months ago! It’s so good! Happy reading friends!
November 6, 2025
Solid start to a series.
spoilers ahead.
I usually dissect characters first in my review but I wanted to start with why this was a 3 and not higher when I actually liked the book. Two reasons: This felt like it was on mega fast forward for me, and it should've probably been two books. On the first note, I liked that we had nathan as a bond starting this book. I liked not having to have to meet all 5 guys and have them like each other, but everything else was rushed. We rush through relationships, the plot is already escalating to a crazy point by books end. Now don't get me wrong I like the we aren't dragging along, but I really wanted a little more connection.
Now for main characters. I love that she is second gen badass. Having her parents be these legends who have this entire back story and crazy life is awesome. We often get that after series are ended but just having a baseline for her life was cool. I also liked that she was a strong female lead with skills to back up that belief. Nothing is worse than characters who can't hold their own after constantly talking about their ability. The guys are also good too. I wanted more connection to them versus the "I love her, oh I love her" that their pov tended to lean toward.
overall I'm excited for book two and hope we get a little more connection!
spoilers ahead.
I usually dissect characters first in my review but I wanted to start with why this was a 3 and not higher when I actually liked the book. Two reasons: This felt like it was on mega fast forward for me, and it should've probably been two books. On the first note, I liked that we had nathan as a bond starting this book. I liked not having to have to meet all 5 guys and have them like each other, but everything else was rushed. We rush through relationships, the plot is already escalating to a crazy point by books end. Now don't get me wrong I like the we aren't dragging along, but I really wanted a little more connection.
Now for main characters. I love that she is second gen badass. Having her parents be these legends who have this entire back story and crazy life is awesome. We often get that after series are ended but just having a baseline for her life was cool. I also liked that she was a strong female lead with skills to back up that belief. Nothing is worse than characters who can't hold their own after constantly talking about their ability. The guys are also good too. I wanted more connection to them versus the "I love her, oh I love her" that their pov tended to lean toward.
overall I'm excited for book two and hope we get a little more connection!
September 11, 2025
"There's nothing between us but air and opportunity, bitch."
It has been a hot minute since I have read a 5 star worthy book & this blew my mind !! Where do I begin? We have:
Strong FMC ✅
Psycho MMCs ✅
Plot twist I thought I saw coming but actually didn't ✅
This book gave me Divergent vibes but in an academy setting & our FMC Reverie has balls of steel, she takes no shit & never backs down.
I love how insane and psychotic Nathan is & Oren is not that far behind, I honestly thought I knew where his character was heading but boy was I wrong.
We’ve still got the twins & Jet to settle into this faction, but with that cliffhanger & new revelations, I just know book 2 will be a crazier ride than book 1 and I’m all for it.
It has been a hot minute since I have read a 5 star worthy book & this blew my mind !! Where do I begin? We have:
Strong FMC ✅
Psycho MMCs ✅
Plot twist I thought I saw coming but actually didn't ✅
This book gave me Divergent vibes but in an academy setting & our FMC Reverie has balls of steel, she takes no shit & never backs down.
I love how insane and psychotic Nathan is & Oren is not that far behind, I honestly thought I knew where his character was heading but boy was I wrong.
We’ve still got the twins & Jet to settle into this faction, but with that cliffhanger & new revelations, I just know book 2 will be a crazier ride than book 1 and I’m all for it.
April 25, 2025
3.5⭐️ when i was scrolling on KU, i was sooo excited about this and when i started reading it, i knew it was going to be good. But, while there was a lot that I did like, there was some things that I didn’t. But, i do think for a debut novel, it was good. I loved the premise of this book, how strong and badass the FMC is, and the idea of the world with a twist of familiars and mate bonds. Like I was eating that up! I do think at times there was a lot of repetitiveness in the dialogue and sometimes it felt very juvenile. Im unsure how i feel about the relationship between the FMC and all her guys right now because there’s so many different layers to it, but also not enough depth to the layers of the relationships. if that makes sense??? LMAOOO. But, I will give book two a chance though, because that ending has me so intrigued as to what’s going on and what’s going to happen!
March 7, 2025
I am genuinely impressed by this debut novel! The author should be incredibly proud of this achievement, as it stands out in so many ways. From the engaging storytelling to the vivid characters and immersive world-building, it’s clear that this is the work of someone who has a true talent for writing. The pacing is spot-on, and the themes are explored with depth and sensitivity. For a first book, it’s nothing short of amazing, and I can only imagine how much more the author will continue to grow and refine their craft. If this is just the beginning, I am excited to see what comes next!
March 10, 2025
This book is Chefs Kiss!
I love a good RH and when it turns out to be great, all the better. This book has just the right amount of description and dialogue. I can picture the world and the scene without getting board due to all the dialogue. The FMC is straight up bad a$$. Her men are the perfect blend of cinnamon roll and psycho. My favorite kind. I will definitely recommend this book to all book girlies and anyone that wants to join the world of reading. The fact that this is Frankie James' first book...prefect! I can't wait for the next book.
I love a good RH and when it turns out to be great, all the better. This book has just the right amount of description and dialogue. I can picture the world and the scene without getting board due to all the dialogue. The FMC is straight up bad a$$. Her men are the perfect blend of cinnamon roll and psycho. My favorite kind. I will definitely recommend this book to all book girlies and anyone that wants to join the world of reading. The fact that this is Frankie James' first book...prefect! I can't wait for the next book.
March 7, 2025
OMG!!
I don’t know where to begin. This book is awesome! I am so bummed that the second book isn’t out until September. Personally if I had known, I would have waited until the last book was complete. But for anyone that doesn’t care then this book is really great. The action and 🌶️🌶️🌶️ along with her men are the best! Highly recommend this book
I don’t know where to begin. This book is awesome! I am so bummed that the second book isn’t out until September. Personally if I had known, I would have waited until the last book was complete. But for anyone that doesn’t care then this book is really great. The action and 🌶️🌶️🌶️ along with her men are the best! Highly recommend this book
March 6, 2025
Awesome!!!!
I loved this book so much!!!! Great characters and an awesome storyline! Reverie is a kicka** FMC that puts mean girls in there place! Her men are 🔥🔥🔥 and a little crazy. I can't wait to read the next book!!!!
I loved this book so much!!!! Great characters and an awesome storyline! Reverie is a kicka** FMC that puts mean girls in there place! Her men are 🔥🔥🔥 and a little crazy. I can't wait to read the next book!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews