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Alkrose Academy #2
Secrets of Alkrose
Wicked things are happening at Alkrose Academy.
Terra, Finn, and Edgar have finally reunited, but nothing is as they hoped. Terra's beloved Raine has been blighted by her untrained powers, a fate that spells his ultimate demise. As they scour the academy for anything that might save him, they uncover secrets lying in the dark. Secrets that involve Elias, Arthur, and the formidable Headmaster Emerai.
Meanwhile, the students prepare for the mysterious second-semester exam, rumored to be a harrowing assessment even deadlier than the Culling. If they can survive until then, that is—some shadows are more bloodthirsty than others.
Only the elite will survive.
Face death boldly.
For mature listeners.
Terra, Finn, and Edgar have finally reunited, but nothing is as they hoped. Terra's beloved Raine has been blighted by her untrained powers, a fate that spells his ultimate demise. As they scour the academy for anything that might save him, they uncover secrets lying in the dark. Secrets that involve Elias, Arthur, and the formidable Headmaster Emerai.
Meanwhile, the students prepare for the mysterious second-semester exam, rumored to be a harrowing assessment even deadlier than the Culling. If they can survive until then, that is—some shadows are more bloodthirsty than others.
Only the elite will survive.
Face death boldly.
For mature listeners.
Audible Audio
Published November 5, 2024
272 people are currently reading
4741 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Moronova
16 books6,923 followersNew York Times, USA Today, and #1 International bestselling author K. M. Moronova has enjoyed telling dreary stories as far as she can remember. She adores reading and writing dark-themed, romantic books with plot twists and emotional turns. Often, she is found drying flowers in her study or drinking tea while relaxing in her garden. She loves spending time with her partner, exploring the forest, and envisioning more devastating stories to tell.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 386 reviews
November 14, 2024
Well... I enjoyed this more than the first one, but I'm still not over the moon about this series. FRTC Shortly.
I've taken my time on deciding on whether or not I wanted to jump into this one after not being blown away by the first book.
I feel like between the glowing ratings on this one vs book 1 AND the extreme love I have for Moronova - that's enough to convince me. 👀
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Book 1 Review ꕤ ₊⊹⁀➴ Of Deathless Shadows
I've taken my time on deciding on whether or not I wanted to jump into this one after not being blown away by the first book.
I feel like between the glowing ratings on this one vs book 1 AND the extreme love I have for Moronova - that's enough to convince me. 👀
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ Book 1 Review ꕤ ₊⊹⁀➴ Of Deathless Shadows
July 3, 2024
4 ★'s
The setting of this is kind of like Hogwarts if Voldemort won, and the fmc is in a reverse harem with Malfoy, Snape, Harry and other fellas... Oh, and it’s a military academy with shadow magic.
✦ The heartless will thrive and the ones with hearts will die. ✦
It’s obviously very fascinating, but some parts left me confused or wanting more which is why I feel like I cannot give this the full 5 stars. I am still very much enjoying this series. The sequel probably even more than the first one as the plot is much more cohesive, which is helpful when we have multiple pov's to consider.
The main thing I was hoping for when going into this book was more character depth.
Whilst it took a little while, I would say Moronova ultimately succeeded in that. I feel more connected to the main characters, especially towards the end. It would've probably benefitted even more with additional backstory. However, with how this book ended I am staying hopeful that we might still receive that in upcoming books.🤞🏻
Personally, I have nothing against unlikeable main characters when reading, but a fair warning to anyone thinking of reading this: our girl Terra(fmc) is quite unlikeable in large parts throughout this. She made me sigh several times with how much she was playing the victim, but she is getting better - I think?
In my review for book 1, I mentioned one of the things that intrigued me was the magic system. It did, and still does.
However this is an additional area I would've hoped for more in book two. I didn't mind it being a bit vague in book one, as I figured it would get more fleshed out as they come to the academy. Whilst I still think the magic system is very interesting and this book definitely answered some questions, there are still some question marks for me on how it all works between the different types, houses and the like.
I might just be hella nerdy, but I love getting nitty-gritty into the magic when reading my fantasy. 🤓
Over to the romance and our reverse harem.
We're seeing more of it in this book compared to book one. Our girl Terra does not wanna be held down. More connections are being made, other connections are getting deeper and there are some interesting dynamics. 😌
In the (limited) RH I've read prior it's mostly clear what their connection is(e.g. through a mate bond). Here it's left a bit vague. One seems to be her mate, another an ex boyfriend and then several men she has great sexual tension with.
I don't hate it, not at all - but I am a little bit confused. I am aware that I am on book two of a 4-5 book series, and these things will probably get way more defined as time goes on, so it doesn't really have any impact on my overall enjoyment as of now.
All in all, the plot is what really has got me hooked. I think this is so unique and fascinating. And after that ending - I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
_________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
Continuing with my Moronova read-through.😌
I'm intrigued about the set up for this one.
Keeping my fingers crossed for some more character depth though.
Btw, how gorgeous isn't this cover?? 🖤
The setting of this is kind of like Hogwarts if Voldemort won, and the fmc is in a reverse harem with Malfoy, Snape, Harry and other fellas... Oh, and it’s a military academy with shadow magic.
✦ The heartless will thrive and the ones with hearts will die. ✦
It’s obviously very fascinating, but some parts left me confused or wanting more which is why I feel like I cannot give this the full 5 stars. I am still very much enjoying this series. The sequel probably even more than the first one as the plot is much more cohesive, which is helpful when we have multiple pov's to consider.
The main thing I was hoping for when going into this book was more character depth.
Whilst it took a little while, I would say Moronova ultimately succeeded in that. I feel more connected to the main characters, especially towards the end. It would've probably benefitted even more with additional backstory. However, with how this book ended I am staying hopeful that we might still receive that in upcoming books.🤞🏻
Personally, I have nothing against unlikeable main characters when reading, but a fair warning to anyone thinking of reading this: our girl Terra(fmc) is quite unlikeable in large parts throughout this. She made me sigh several times with how much she was playing the victim, but she is getting better - I think?
In my review for book 1, I mentioned one of the things that intrigued me was the magic system. It did, and still does.
However this is an additional area I would've hoped for more in book two. I didn't mind it being a bit vague in book one, as I figured it would get more fleshed out as they come to the academy. Whilst I still think the magic system is very interesting and this book definitely answered some questions, there are still some question marks for me on how it all works between the different types, houses and the like.
I might just be hella nerdy, but I love getting nitty-gritty into the magic when reading my fantasy. 🤓
Over to the romance and our reverse harem.
We're seeing more of it in this book compared to book one. Our girl Terra does not wanna be held down. More connections are being made, other connections are getting deeper and there are some interesting dynamics. 😌
✧"You're more than the sky, Raine. You are the wind, the earth, the blood in my veins."✧
✧"I never wanted to be the villain, especially not yours."✧
In the (limited) RH I've read prior it's mostly clear what their connection is(e.g. through a mate bond). Here it's left a bit vague. One seems to be her mate, another an ex boyfriend and then several men she has great sexual tension with.
I don't hate it, not at all - but I am a little bit confused. I am aware that I am on book two of a 4-5 book series, and these things will probably get way more defined as time goes on, so it doesn't really have any impact on my overall enjoyment as of now.
All in all, the plot is what really has got me hooked. I think this is so unique and fascinating. And after that ending - I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book.
_________
⌞Pre-read:⌝
Continuing with my Moronova read-through.😌
I'm intrigued about the set up for this one.
Keeping my fingers crossed for some more character depth though.
Btw, how gorgeous isn't this cover?? 🖤
October 11, 2024
5⭐️
Oh my god!!!! The ending of this book was absolutely insane, I did not see that twist coming at all!
I’m absolutely loving this, I actually didn’t realise there was going to be more books after this and I am soo fucking buzzing!
It’s SUPER dark, military school, full of shadow magic, trauma and death.. it is quite a heavy storyline but it’s so addictive and unlike any fantasies I’ve read so far!
I did think the pacing got a bit slow at times in the book, but since realising there’s more to come it makes sense now, so much character development, so intrigued with Edgar’s character arc and where that’s headed, and also Finns too! However book 1 was definitely more fast paced & I found myself bored around the 60-70% mark because nothing was happening & then it just went all crazyyyy
The only think I don’t get, is Terra’s polyamory I honestly think it doesn’t bring any thing necessary to the story and we could definitely do without it but it doesn’t ruin the book either …
I want the third book now 🌚
Oh my god!!!! The ending of this book was absolutely insane, I did not see that twist coming at all!
I’m absolutely loving this, I actually didn’t realise there was going to be more books after this and I am soo fucking buzzing!
It’s SUPER dark, military school, full of shadow magic, trauma and death.. it is quite a heavy storyline but it’s so addictive and unlike any fantasies I’ve read so far!
I did think the pacing got a bit slow at times in the book, but since realising there’s more to come it makes sense now, so much character development, so intrigued with Edgar’s character arc and where that’s headed, and also Finns too! However book 1 was definitely more fast paced & I found myself bored around the 60-70% mark because nothing was happening & then it just went all crazyyyy
The only think I don’t get, is Terra’s polyamory I honestly think it doesn’t bring any thing necessary to the story and we could definitely do without it but it doesn’t ruin the book either …
I want the third book now 🌚
April 15, 2024
Okay first of all WOW. If I could rate this book higher than 5 stars I would. I just finished and I need more. The ending had me gasping. I loved the story and characters. It was very Harry Potter, gothic, vibes. It also literally tore my heart apart.
June 18, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
HOLY CLIFFHANGER. Okay, the ending of this book really made up for it but I struggled up until about 70%
There wasn’t much going on and I needed some action. I felt like book 1 hooked me in a little bit more but I still enjoyed it and will definitely keep going!
Legit cannot get over the ending 🤯
HOLY CLIFFHANGER. Okay, the ending of this book really made up for it but I struggled up until about 70%
There wasn’t much going on and I needed some action. I felt like book 1 hooked me in a little bit more but I still enjoyed it and will definitely keep going!
Legit cannot get over the ending 🤯
June 4, 2024
𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚ ༘ ⋆｡˚♡
𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭. “𝐈 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐨. 𝐃𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞?” 𝐇𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫, 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐈 𝐧𝐨𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. “𝐈𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐛𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐱𝐲 𝐠𝐮𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞,”
Okay, i'm so glad that i was part of the ARC reader team even though i took my time to read this book due to personal reasons.
But, i loved every moments of my reading. I loved the first one and i love this one too.
We pick up the story directly after the end of the first book and it’s incredible.
We learn a lot about Alkrose, about the shadows, their powers, about the headmaster, and also about all the different characters.
I really liked discovering more about Elias, Kallos and Arthur. Besides, Arthur is one of the characters who intrigues me the most.
Elias is not necessarily my favorite character, but I really enjoyed learning about him, who he is, how he became like that, and I know that in the next volume I will probably like him a little more.
Regarding the story, at one point I found that it was moving a little slowly and I just wanted to discover what happened next. But the end?? the end of the book changed my entire appreciation. Because how ????
“𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐲. 𝐀𝐬 𝐚 𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐠𝐮𝐲, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐝, 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐡. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐞 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐥. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞.”
“𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐬. 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Terra and Raine's relationship?? it is truly the most beautiful and sweetest. I really loved seeing them get even closer.
I won't put any spoilers in this review but I just have to say one thing: They deserve better and I need more from their relationship.
THIS :
𝐇𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐮𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞. (𝐖𝐨𝐰, 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭, 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐲 “𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧”?)
YES QUEEN. It was so funny to read it.
Overall, I really liked this book and I'm looking forward to the next book.
—
Got the ARC 🥹 yeah, i'm a mess, not that active and i barely have time to read but i'm going to read this one. I loved book one so much and i'm so happy to find out what's next <3
𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭. “𝐈 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐚 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐨. 𝐃𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞?” 𝐇𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐬 𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫, 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐈 𝐧𝐨𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲. “𝐈𝐭 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐚 𝐛𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐈 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐱𝐲 𝐠𝐮𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞,”
Okay, i'm so glad that i was part of the ARC reader team even though i took my time to read this book due to personal reasons.
But, i loved every moments of my reading. I loved the first one and i love this one too.
We pick up the story directly after the end of the first book and it’s incredible.
We learn a lot about Alkrose, about the shadows, their powers, about the headmaster, and also about all the different characters.
I really liked discovering more about Elias, Kallos and Arthur. Besides, Arthur is one of the characters who intrigues me the most.
Elias is not necessarily my favorite character, but I really enjoyed learning about him, who he is, how he became like that, and I know that in the next volume I will probably like him a little more.
Regarding the story, at one point I found that it was moving a little slowly and I just wanted to discover what happened next. But the end?? the end of the book changed my entire appreciation. Because how ????
“𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐰𝐚𝐲. 𝐀𝐬 𝐚 𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐠𝐮𝐲, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦. 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐝, 𝐜𝐫𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐞𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐡. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐞 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐥. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞.”
“𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐯𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐬. 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
Terra and Raine's relationship?? it is truly the most beautiful and sweetest. I really loved seeing them get even closer.
I won't put any spoilers in this review but I just have to say one thing: They deserve better and I need more from their relationship.
THIS :
𝐇𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐮𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞. (𝐖𝐨𝐰, 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭, 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝-𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐚𝐲 “𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧”?)
YES QUEEN. It was so funny to read it.
Overall, I really liked this book and I'm looking forward to the next book.
—
Got the ARC 🥹 yeah, i'm a mess, not that active and i barely have time to read but i'm going to read this one. I loved book one so much and i'm so happy to find out what's next <3
November 21, 2024
’m thoroughly confused by Secrets of Alkrose by K.M. Moronova. The story revolves around Terra, who seems more focused on hooking up with everyone in sight than on anything resembling a meaningful plot. The concept of her having a shadow soulmate had potential, but it’s handled so poorly that it loses all impact. Terra claims she wants this soulmate, yet she treats him no differently than anyone else, which completely undermines the idea of their connection.
The multiple POVs only add to the confusion, as none of the characters seem to understand what’s going on—much like the reader. There’s some vague mention of preparing for a war, but it feels like an afterthought in a story that’s more preoccupied with steamy scenes than coherent storytelling.
Terra’s lack of self-awareness is infuriating. For someone in her twenties, she comes across as immature and oblivious. Her inability to grasp what’s happening around her makes her a frustrating protagonist to follow. The only character I remotely cared about was Elias. At least he has a clear sense of identity and stands out as someone genuine amid this mess of shallow and aimless characters.
In the end, this book feels like an unfocused jumble of spicy moments and confusing subplots. It’s a real letdown, especially given the intriguing premise it fails to deliver on.
The multiple POVs only add to the confusion, as none of the characters seem to understand what’s going on—much like the reader. There’s some vague mention of preparing for a war, but it feels like an afterthought in a story that’s more preoccupied with steamy scenes than coherent storytelling.
Terra’s lack of self-awareness is infuriating. For someone in her twenties, she comes across as immature and oblivious. Her inability to grasp what’s happening around her makes her a frustrating protagonist to follow. The only character I remotely cared about was Elias. At least he has a clear sense of identity and stands out as someone genuine amid this mess of shallow and aimless characters.
In the end, this book feels like an unfocused jumble of spicy moments and confusing subplots. It’s a real letdown, especially given the intriguing premise it fails to deliver on.
April 14, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
I am unwell. Honestly. I may have to call in sick for the rest of the month because the chokehold this book has me in is sickening… honestly I expect nothing less from a Moronova book though.
The way I sobbed through the last 15 pages of this book just shows how well this it was written and why it is a 5 star book for me (sorry you’ll have to read for yourself to see why).
WHAT I WILL SAY IS… the way Moronova writes character’s POV’s and how they seamlessly tie into one another makes you feel like you are physically there or in that character’s mind. It is PURE genius. This is exactly what makes her one of my auto-buy authors honestly.
It is rare for me to not replace an FMC with myself but I have grown very fond of Terra and it honestly is refreshing to resonate with a FMC such as herself. Moronova definitely knows what she is doing. (Also I’m keen on the men who are in her harem or who I hope will be in it)
The plot twists/cliff hangers have me in a CHOKEHOLD and I simply don’t know how I’m going to FATHOM waiting for book 3… and I just reminded myself that I ARC READ THIS SO IT’S NOT EVEN AVAILABLE YET. So don’t mind me while I go cry. Thank you!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
I am unwell. Honestly. I may have to call in sick for the rest of the month because the chokehold this book has me in is sickening… honestly I expect nothing less from a Moronova book though.
The way I sobbed through the last 15 pages of this book just shows how well this it was written and why it is a 5 star book for me (sorry you’ll have to read for yourself to see why).
WHAT I WILL SAY IS… the way Moronova writes character’s POV’s and how they seamlessly tie into one another makes you feel like you are physically there or in that character’s mind. It is PURE genius. This is exactly what makes her one of my auto-buy authors honestly.
It is rare for me to not replace an FMC with myself but I have grown very fond of Terra and it honestly is refreshing to resonate with a FMC such as herself. Moronova definitely knows what she is doing. (Also I’m keen on the men who are in her harem or who I hope will be in it)
The plot twists/cliff hangers have me in a CHOKEHOLD and I simply don’t know how I’m going to FATHOM waiting for book 3… and I just reminded myself that I ARC READ THIS SO IT’S NOT EVEN AVAILABLE YET. So don’t mind me while I go cry. Thank you!
April 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much K.M Moronova I’m so greatful I was chosen as an ARC reader.
This book is just wow!!! I loved the character development that each and everyone one had compared to the first book and their POVs were out of this world! Everything was so incredibly detailed and I felt as if I could resinate with each of them. It was a seamless movie in my head the entire time I was reading this. I loved the gothic and cryptic vibes I got from this book. I literally cannot wait for the next one! Everything this author writes just blows my mind. I need more !
Thank you so much K.M Moronova I’m so greatful I was chosen as an ARC reader.
This book is just wow!!! I loved the character development that each and everyone one had compared to the first book and their POVs were out of this world! Everything was so incredibly detailed and I felt as if I could resinate with each of them. It was a seamless movie in my head the entire time I was reading this. I loved the gothic and cryptic vibes I got from this book. I literally cannot wait for the next one! Everything this author writes just blows my mind. I need more !
July 2, 2024
Once again, you have shattered my soul and blown my brains straight out of my head!! WHY DID YOU DO THAT!? I knew there was something big coming from the start. It was the only way. But THAT? Then AFTER!?! No, ma’am. Stop it right now. You fix this. You fix aaaalllllll of this!
As per usual, I need the next book yesterday. This is the cliffhanger of all fucking cliffhangers!
*throws hands* Infinite stars.
As per usual, I need the next book yesterday. This is the cliffhanger of all fucking cliffhangers!
*throws hands* Infinite stars.
April 17, 2024
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 3🌶️
If you are looking for a book that will ultimately shatter your heart, and leave you staring at a wall for hours, read this book!
I have so many unanswered questions, this book has amazing plot and spice. The war college aspect of the book, was so good! I couldn’t stop reading it. I really like the characters and how they all fit together.🖤
Tropes:
Fated mates
Forced proximity
Why choose
Betrayal
“Touch her and die”
“Your mine”
War college
Also please check the trigger warnings before reading🫶🏻
Spice: 3🌶️
If you are looking for a book that will ultimately shatter your heart, and leave you staring at a wall for hours, read this book!
I have so many unanswered questions, this book has amazing plot and spice. The war college aspect of the book, was so good! I couldn’t stop reading it. I really like the characters and how they all fit together.🖤
Tropes:
Fated mates
Forced proximity
Why choose
Betrayal
“Touch her and die”
“Your mine”
War college
Also please check the trigger warnings before reading🫶🏻
April 17, 2024
Just when I thought I couldn't love this series even more! Wow, what a crazy ride this was! I really enjoyed the academic setting of this one and getting to learn more about the Shadows. I really enjoyed the character dynamics and how all the groups are now intertwined. It really made for some interesting interactions.
K.M. always manages to throw in the craziest and gut-wrenching plot twists! She really knows how to just break hearts. Secrets of Alkrose was no different. I'm really excited for what comes next in this series.
K.M. always manages to throw in the craziest and gut-wrenching plot twists! She really knows how to just break hearts. Secrets of Alkrose was no different. I'm really excited for what comes next in this series.
December 8, 2024
Had to DNF at 25%.
I did a buddy read of the first one & the 3 other girls I was reading with DNF’d it.. so I thought I would take one for the team and continue as I’d heard this one was meant to be much better and I always like to give books the benefit of the doubt (as with series we know the first book can be slightly boring compared to the rest) but …. unfortunately … it didn’t improve 🥺
I did a buddy read of the first one & the 3 other girls I was reading with DNF’d it.. so I thought I would take one for the team and continue as I’d heard this one was meant to be much better and I always like to give books the benefit of the doubt (as with series we know the first book can be slightly boring compared to the rest) but …. unfortunately … it didn’t improve 🥺
September 4, 2024
“I never wanted to be the villian, especially not yours”
I will read anything this author writes!!
HOLY MOLY WHAT AN ENDING! I cannot wait until book 3 because I need answers!!!
The twists and emotions this takes you through is fantastic and I’m literally in shock right now. I need more 😭
“You are more than the sky, Raine. You are the wind, the earth, the blood in my veins. I will never forget you.”
I will read anything this author writes!!
HOLY MOLY WHAT AN ENDING! I cannot wait until book 3 because I need answers!!!
The twists and emotions this takes you through is fantastic and I’m literally in shock right now. I need more 😭
“You are more than the sky, Raine. You are the wind, the earth, the blood in my veins. I will never forget you.”
January 29, 2025
Well... i definitely liked the first book better. Right away I gave this book a 3.5 as I wasn't very into it as I was the first book. By the middle to end I was off and on invested. I was actually going to increase my rating to a 4 star.... then the ending happened. 😞 right back to a 3/3.5
July 14, 2024
I'm so confused. So far, Terra has sex with everyone and has a shadow soulmate that she claims to want but doesn't seem to see him as special. So little explanation as the various POVs are all honestly confused. Apparently, this just this shadow/woman having a lot of spicy time...and trying to prepare for a war? What a bummer. Plus Terra doesn't seem to understand that she doesn't get what is actually going on. She lacks insight even for a 20 something. I feel bad for Elias because he owns his identity unlike the rest of these idiots.
April 12, 2024
OMG! K.M. Moronovas TikTok gave little sneak peaks to this book so I KNEW it was going to be good, but DANG! You want a 1,000 star amazing cliffhanger book…. Well this is the one! It had me rocking in anticipation, screaming, furious, happy, and yes I even cried. I got to be an ARC reader so I won’t give any spoilers but I’m telling you that you better read this book the day it’s released!
April 20, 2024
I am absolutely flabbergasted. I love all of the authors books & this one left me as heartbroken as the others. THE ENDING. 😭. I’m REELING. Like I kept clicking the kindle to see if I could get more pages but it didn’t work 🥹🥹
If you are looking for action, danger, heartbreak, spice, betrayal, why choose, training scenes, definitely check out this series!!!
If you are looking for action, danger, heartbreak, spice, betrayal, why choose, training scenes, definitely check out this series!!!
April 14, 2024
I thought maybe just maybe this book wouldn't rip my heart out 86% in, and everything is fine. But nope, last 3% and poof bye bye heart.
July 8, 2024
I liked it better than the first one! I still feel like there were a lot of plot holes I can’t get past 🫠
November 13, 2025
3.65-3.75✨. So first: 😭😭 but ALSO: 🤬🤬
Here’s the thing — I have such mixed feelings. The first 60% of the book I was just… annoyed. All I could think was that Terra (or her shadow 🤷🏽♀️) was hoe-ing all around, and honestly, I usually love a good reverse harem, but this one wasn’t my favorite.
These characters though — I didn’t think I was that invested (mostly because of my dislike for Terra’s behaviors), but THAT was a lie. By the end, the way I sobbed. 😭 I was devastated, angry, and hopeless… so clearly, I’m invested. 😂 Each of them has so much complexity, and I’m both grieved and obsessed with their journeys. But also… MOOOORRREEE, please. ✨🫣😉
I’m obsessed with this world Moronova’s building — it’s fascinating and layered and so interesting. I just want ✨more✨ of it — more background, more information, more clarity around this wild version of chemical warfare, because it’s so intriguing.
I keep doing this to myself because I’m addicted to Moronova’s writing — it’s lush, descriptive, painfully beautiful, and emotionally charged in all the best ways. The way I am now depressed waiting for the rest of the books in this series. 😮💨🖤
Here’s the thing — I have such mixed feelings. The first 60% of the book I was just… annoyed. All I could think was that Terra (or her shadow 🤷🏽♀️) was hoe-ing all around, and honestly, I usually love a good reverse harem, but this one wasn’t my favorite.
These characters though — I didn’t think I was that invested (mostly because of my dislike for Terra’s behaviors), but THAT was a lie. By the end, the way I sobbed. 😭 I was devastated, angry, and hopeless… so clearly, I’m invested. 😂 Each of them has so much complexity, and I’m both grieved and obsessed with their journeys. But also… MOOOORRREEE, please. ✨🫣😉
I’m obsessed with this world Moronova’s building — it’s fascinating and layered and so interesting. I just want ✨more✨ of it — more background, more information, more clarity around this wild version of chemical warfare, because it’s so intriguing.
I keep doing this to myself because I’m addicted to Moronova’s writing — it’s lush, descriptive, painfully beautiful, and emotionally charged in all the best ways. The way I am now depressed waiting for the rest of the books in this series. 😮💨🖤
May 7, 2024
3.4⭐️ THAT ENDING. Emotional turmoil.
Similiar to my review of the first book…so many things about this that I LOVED but there were also things that were just, idk.
I still feel confused about how the magic works in this book and the concept of the shadows. Maybe I’m slow?? But I feel like I don’t really understand and that makes parts of this book frustrating. I’m also hung up on how Edgar can have such empathy for his friends and then just be completely unhinged wanting to murder his sister in a blink.
I really enjoyed all of the POVs in this book. In the first book I was in love with Raine and in this book I was OBSESSED with Arthur.
I really loved the academia setting and the friendships. It reminded me of Zodiac Academy.
I’m looking forward to seeing what the next book brings.
Similiar to my review of the first book…so many things about this that I LOVED but there were also things that were just, idk.
I still feel confused about how the magic works in this book and the concept of the shadows. Maybe I’m slow?? But I feel like I don’t really understand and that makes parts of this book frustrating. I’m also hung up on how Edgar can have such empathy for his friends and then just be completely unhinged wanting to murder his sister in a blink.
I really enjoyed all of the POVs in this book. In the first book I was in love with Raine and in this book I was OBSESSED with Arthur.
I really loved the academia setting and the friendships. It reminded me of Zodiac Academy.
I’m looking forward to seeing what the next book brings.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
I know this post is giant- BUT THIS ART. 😍
OKAY. Book two- The story. Gutted. In shambles. Barely breathing. K.M. Moronova, what have you done to me?! The world building was legend. The morally gray characters were dark and twisty. The storytelling made me feel like I was right in the pages alongside everyone.
I thought this was a duology but now I realize it’s a 3-4 book series and honestly… thank the book gods because I need more! Everyone’s a hero… or everyone’s a villain in this one (at the same time maybe?) & I’m here cheering for all of them like the emotionally unstable reader I am. 😆😆
A book with little romance, complex politics, blurred morality, and a world so rich I forgot reality existed. ALL substance….I gasped, I cheered, I got answers….I have more questions. 😆😆
5 stars. Infinite pain, zero regrets.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
OKAY. Book two- The story. Gutted. In shambles. Barely breathing. K.M. Moronova, what have you done to me?! The world building was legend. The morally gray characters were dark and twisty. The storytelling made me feel like I was right in the pages alongside everyone.
I thought this was a duology but now I realize it’s a 3-4 book series and honestly… thank the book gods because I need more! Everyone’s a hero… or everyone’s a villain in this one (at the same time maybe?) & I’m here cheering for all of them like the emotionally unstable reader I am. 😆😆
A book with little romance, complex politics, blurred morality, and a world so rich I forgot reality existed. ALL substance….I gasped, I cheered, I got answers….I have more questions. 😆😆
5 stars. Infinite pain, zero regrets.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 13, 2024
Are you... freaking kidding me? Book 3, now, I'm not even saying please it's a demand.
To those saying the multiple POVs are a negative for them, I loved that. Being able to see more than just one or two POVs, sometimes quickly (short chapters), helped just make the book SO much more well-rounded, in my eyes.
I definitely do not want to give spoilers, I'm a HUGE fan of K.M. Moronova and while I know she has a way with heart-shattering stories (I thought Fabric of Our Souls wrenched on my freaking heart strings) Secrets of Alkrose, especially the freaking ending... I wasn't even expecting it to be that heavy, and girl...with that ending? I need number three, four, and five. I need a rainbows and sunshine ending c'mon!
To those saying the multiple POVs are a negative for them, I loved that. Being able to see more than just one or two POVs, sometimes quickly (short chapters), helped just make the book SO much more well-rounded, in my eyes.
I definitely do not want to give spoilers, I'm a HUGE fan of K.M. Moronova and while I know she has a way with heart-shattering stories (I thought Fabric of Our Souls wrenched on my freaking heart strings) Secrets of Alkrose, especially the freaking ending... I wasn't even expecting it to be that heavy, and girl...with that ending? I need number three, four, and five. I need a rainbows and sunshine ending c'mon!
April 26, 2024
I was honored to be able to ARC read this!! 🖤
No spoilers 😊
4.5/5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
“It’s sickening how much can change when your entire life is ripped out from beneath you”
The tension was so high. The character development was great! I am unwell. K.M has done it again. All of the books have me in a chokehold. Everything was so detailed and I really felt it. I LOVE the gothic, dark academia vibes this book gives. I sobbed like a baby at the end.
This is intense, morbid, and will leave you on the edge of your seat.
read this series. You will not regret it! K.M will rip your heart out and make you love every second!!
No spoilers 😊
4.5/5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
“It’s sickening how much can change when your entire life is ripped out from beneath you”
The tension was so high. The character development was great! I am unwell. K.M has done it again. All of the books have me in a chokehold. Everything was so detailed and I really felt it. I LOVE the gothic, dark academia vibes this book gives. I sobbed like a baby at the end.
This is intense, morbid, and will leave you on the edge of your seat.
read this series. You will not regret it! K.M will rip your heart out and make you love every second!!
July 25, 2025
As the title states, there are lots of secrets at Alkrose. This had the classic feel of gothic, dark academy of unraveling those secrets in a gothic university with the fear of death looming over the students. It does have its own unique twist (no spoilers here!) and I greatly enjoyed it. Spending more time with our main 4 characters as they explore their Shadows and the school. But, MORONOVA, that cliffhanger!! When is the next book?!
Again, it felt a little rushed at times with possible story gaps but enjoyed!
The story is darker and more gory than book 1, please read the trigger warnings.
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Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Steam: 💋💋💋
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark: 🌄 **dusk:** it’s getting darker, main theme of the book but “lighter” TWs
Again, it felt a little rushed at times with possible story gaps but enjoyed!
The story is darker and more gory than book 1, please read the trigger warnings.
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Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Steam: 💋💋💋
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Dark: 🌄 **dusk:** it’s getting darker, main theme of the book but “lighter” TWs
May 29, 2025
Better than the first one but the characters are still giving me nothing. They have no personality, within 2 lines they seem to say and feel one thing and then completely the opposite. I still don’t understand the world and I hate how they’re at an academy but we don’t see any of the actual learning. We continue to just be told things without any showing or build up so everything just falls flat to me. I’m still intrigued by the general storyline but not sure if I’ll read any more when they come out
September 27, 2025
This had soo much potential, but all Terra out there doing is hooking up with every guy in alkrose academy. Her shadow mate Elias hooked me in the first book but honestly couldn't care less about her relationship with Raine. She should've killed him off in book 1 and built up her relationship with Elias more. Just lacked luster for me. The relationships lose their meaning when she's smashing 5 different guys, but they're all 'very meaningful'.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
I am obsessed 😩
Don’t need help, let me just keep on staying obsessed.
“No one can hold the weight of that much death and guilt except me.” 💔
I love your words and the way you can choke me and kiss me at the same time, continues to be iconic.
“I’m sorry, little shadow. I think too much,” 🥲
“I am in no need of comfort. The darkness holds me.”
Can’t wait for what’s next!!
Don’t need help, let me just keep on staying obsessed.
“No one can hold the weight of that much death and guilt except me.” 💔
I love your words and the way you can choke me and kiss me at the same time, continues to be iconic.
“I’m sorry, little shadow. I think too much,” 🥲
“I am in no need of comfort. The darkness holds me.”
Can’t wait for what’s next!!
May 25, 2024
How can I recover FROM ALL OF THAT?!!!
My theories were incorrect 💀
But still I am not okay 😫😫
I am so not okay after *redacted*
So unwell…. 🤧
I am so pissed off too.
This is definitely different from any books I have read and very unique I really quite like KM’s writing style.
It kinda feels like watching an anime in my head for some reason, but still. Sigh. Unwell.
My theories were incorrect 💀
But still I am not okay 😫😫
I am so not okay after *redacted*
So unwell…. 🤧
I am so pissed off too.
This is definitely different from any books I have read and very unique I really quite like KM’s writing style.
It kinda feels like watching an anime in my head for some reason, but still. Sigh. Unwell.
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