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Tinges of Prismia
Prismia Academy: An Epic YA Romantasy
I never wanted magic, until I found myself in a new realm with a dangerously handsome stranger whose secrets are as forbidden as mine.
When my sister was falsely arrested, a new power awakened in me. Now, I’m sentenced to a military mage academy, a ruthless school designed to shape me into a weapon. But they aren’t the only ones after my power. A growing rebellion wants me for their cause, leaving my family caught in the crossfire.
Then there’s Declan—a brooding mage with an intensity that makes my heart race, no matter how hard I try to resist. He’s out of my league, yet offers to train me in secret for the school’s notorious labyrinth mid-term. Magic flares between us, sparking with every glance, every touch—tempting me to lose control. But in an academy built on lies, trusting him could be the biggest mistake I ever make.
The more I uncover, the clearer it becomes—I might be the key to shattering the fragile peace of the twelve realms. But fighting back means risking everything, including my family’s safety. And if I don’t? I may never be free. One way or another, the truth about me won’t stay hidden forever…
Prismia Academy is Book 1 in an Epic YA Fantasy adventure series with clean slow burn romantasy set in a unique magical world based on the color spectrum of the prism. Follow a secretly powerful underdog heroine and her found family to an elite magical academy filled with harrowing trials, an oppressive magical class system, a love triangle, and forbidden romance.
Does she have what it takes to be a chosen one?
Download now and escape to the colorful world of Prismia.
For fans of Fourth Wing, Red Queen, and the Shadow and Bone series.
When my sister was falsely arrested, a new power awakened in me. Now, I’m sentenced to a military mage academy, a ruthless school designed to shape me into a weapon. But they aren’t the only ones after my power. A growing rebellion wants me for their cause, leaving my family caught in the crossfire.
Then there’s Declan—a brooding mage with an intensity that makes my heart race, no matter how hard I try to resist. He’s out of my league, yet offers to train me in secret for the school’s notorious labyrinth mid-term. Magic flares between us, sparking with every glance, every touch—tempting me to lose control. But in an academy built on lies, trusting him could be the biggest mistake I ever make.
The more I uncover, the clearer it becomes—I might be the key to shattering the fragile peace of the twelve realms. But fighting back means risking everything, including my family’s safety. And if I don’t? I may never be free. One way or another, the truth about me won’t stay hidden forever…
Prismia Academy is Book 1 in an Epic YA Fantasy adventure series with clean slow burn romantasy set in a unique magical world based on the color spectrum of the prism. Follow a secretly powerful underdog heroine and her found family to an elite magical academy filled with harrowing trials, an oppressive magical class system, a love triangle, and forbidden romance.
Does she have what it takes to be a chosen one?
Download now and escape to the colorful world of Prismia.
For fans of Fourth Wing, Red Queen, and the Shadow and Bone series.
- GenresFantasy
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
101 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Hartzler
29 books78 followersBarbara Hartzler is an Urban Fantasy Academy author writing about Seers, Chosen Ones, sacred stones, and secret societies ... oh my!
Her stories are full of snarky heroines, supernatural shenanigans, dreamy guys, and normal teens taking on larger-than-life quests to save the world.
As a former barista and graphic designer, she loves all things sparkly and purple and is always jonesing for a good cup of joe.
So grab a cup of coffee and peruse her website at www.barbarahartzler.com. You can read her blog, explore all the behind-the-scenes extras in The Seer’s Vault, or learn more about her writing journey, fun facts, and The BARBARA awards for best fiction (mostly YA).
Or look for Barbara on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads.
Her stories are full of snarky heroines, supernatural shenanigans, dreamy guys, and normal teens taking on larger-than-life quests to save the world.
As a former barista and graphic designer, she loves all things sparkly and purple and is always jonesing for a good cup of joe.
So grab a cup of coffee and peruse her website at www.barbarahartzler.com. You can read her blog, explore all the behind-the-scenes extras in The Seer’s Vault, or learn more about her writing journey, fun facts, and The BARBARA awards for best fiction (mostly YA).
Or look for Barbara on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 28, 2025
*I was given this book as an eArc but my review is based solely on my own thoughts and opinions*
I would have liked it to be more descriptive at times. It’s fantasy so I feel like there should be more. Instead of telling me, I’d like to see it, hear it. Like her sister touches something and now they are calling her a thief!? I want to learn more about her city, the corruption who is overseeing all of this, background. I want to feel like I’m there with her. What temperature was it outside, what are the building surrounding you, etc. I would have liked more in the fight scenes too, sometimes, I got lost. However, I so appreciate how it wasn’t overly written, some authors tend to throw every word in the dictionary, It wasn’t overly done which was nice. I do love the subtleties like radiant heat, get it. The ending and maze ended way too fast, everything was leading up to this and it happened so fast. The person at the end, where you find out their true motives, I wish they were in the book more throughout the story so the betrayal would be oh so much better. Like what?!? But it kind of flunked.
I love me an academic setting any day. While aspects of the book are similar to others, I found the story refreshing. Very interesting in regard to a prism (hence the title) and colors. Although not gonna lie, them landing in a field next to an emerald city screamed wizard of oz to me and threw me off. The book feels like the appropriate length. I think it’s great for readers who want to dive into fantasy for the first time but don’t want all the complexities and confusing storyline.
Professor Vale is fun, I love her theatrics. It has major twilight vibes, especially the scene where he tries to transfer classes lol. But also Hunger Games -ish with the different cities/realms. Trying to find the best of the best of each realm, holding them together and seeing which one can benefit their war/society.
I would have liked more information on Luca and well everyone, who are their families, why are they there etc.
3.5-4 stars
I would have liked it to be more descriptive at times. It’s fantasy so I feel like there should be more. Instead of telling me, I’d like to see it, hear it. Like her sister touches something and now they are calling her a thief!? I want to learn more about her city, the corruption who is overseeing all of this, background. I want to feel like I’m there with her. What temperature was it outside, what are the building surrounding you, etc. I would have liked more in the fight scenes too, sometimes, I got lost. However, I so appreciate how it wasn’t overly written, some authors tend to throw every word in the dictionary, It wasn’t overly done which was nice. I do love the subtleties like radiant heat, get it. The ending and maze ended way too fast, everything was leading up to this and it happened so fast. The person at the end, where you find out their true motives, I wish they were in the book more throughout the story so the betrayal would be oh so much better. Like what?!? But it kind of flunked.
I love me an academic setting any day. While aspects of the book are similar to others, I found the story refreshing. Very interesting in regard to a prism (hence the title) and colors. Although not gonna lie, them landing in a field next to an emerald city screamed wizard of oz to me and threw me off. The book feels like the appropriate length. I think it’s great for readers who want to dive into fantasy for the first time but don’t want all the complexities and confusing storyline.
Professor Vale is fun, I love her theatrics. It has major twilight vibes, especially the scene where he tries to transfer classes lol. But also Hunger Games -ish with the different cities/realms. Trying to find the best of the best of each realm, holding them together and seeing which one can benefit their war/society.
I would have liked more information on Luca and well everyone, who are their families, why are they there etc.
3.5-4 stars
April 6, 2025
This book was sooo good! It had such a hold on me from the start and it didn’t let go until the end! There are so many twist and turns in the book, it will have you hooked from the very start!
The book is told from both Jayla and Declan’s POV. Jayla is from the Amber Realm and lives with her mom and sister, Zia. Jayla’s mother is sick, so Jayla’s sister goes to the market for food and medicine. Jayla’s sister, Zia, ends up trying to steal something, and she almost goes to jail for it. Jayla runs away with Zia so, trying to escape the police, but Jayla ends up porting them into another realm, which is a huge offense. Because it’s against the law to portal into other realms, Jayla is told she’s going to be attending Prisma Academy. While at Prisma Academy, she makes friends but also some enemies.
I loved Jayla!! She was such a badass, and I loved her grit and determination. She is always looking out for her family and trying to do what is best for them. She would literally give you the shirt off her back. Jayla and Declan were adorable together, and while this is a slow burn, I hope they end up together!
I loved the magic system in this book. It was so original and like nothing I had read before. It’s so refreshing to read books that put their spin on magic and how their characters use it. I thought that it was cool how they could tap into their magic in three different ways.
I highly recommend this book, and can’t wait until the second one comes out!
The book is told from both Jayla and Declan’s POV. Jayla is from the Amber Realm and lives with her mom and sister, Zia. Jayla’s mother is sick, so Jayla’s sister goes to the market for food and medicine. Jayla’s sister, Zia, ends up trying to steal something, and she almost goes to jail for it. Jayla runs away with Zia so, trying to escape the police, but Jayla ends up porting them into another realm, which is a huge offense. Because it’s against the law to portal into other realms, Jayla is told she’s going to be attending Prisma Academy. While at Prisma Academy, she makes friends but also some enemies.
I loved Jayla!! She was such a badass, and I loved her grit and determination. She is always looking out for her family and trying to do what is best for them. She would literally give you the shirt off her back. Jayla and Declan were adorable together, and while this is a slow burn, I hope they end up together!
I loved the magic system in this book. It was so original and like nothing I had read before. It’s so refreshing to read books that put their spin on magic and how their characters use it. I thought that it was cool how they could tap into their magic in three different ways.
I highly recommend this book, and can’t wait until the second one comes out!
August 4, 2025
🔮 ‘The Rebellion needed her. But more than that, I needed her. Not as an asset or a weapon, but as the fierce, stubborn, incredible person she was.’ 🔮
I would rate this book 4.5 ⭐️, it was an amazing YA fantasy book! I will definitely be reading the rest of the series! If you love books with a magic academy setting, this will be a book for you- the setting was amazing, with such a unique magic system! 🩵
A power has awakened in Jayla Phoenix- her younger sister was arrested by Realm Guards for a crime she didn’t commit, and she couldn’t just stand by and do nothing. Because of this magical outburst, she is left with no choice but to be sentenced to military mage academy, a ruthless where she’ll train as a soldier to hardness her magic. To be turned into a ruthless weapon for those above. But quickly Jayla finds out that it’s not just the academy after her power, a powerful rebellion has been watching her and they want her to join their group. She may be a lot more powerful than she believes.
To pass out of the academy, Jayla must learn to harness her magic whilst also keeping it under control and hidden from unwanted onlookers- if she shows too much she will attract the attention of those who wish to take her power for themselves. She receives the guidance of Declan, a brooding mage, fellow student and secret rebellion member- but as a person from a Radiant Realm he should never even be seen talking to Jayla, a Tinger. What initially began a task from the rebellion soon becomes more personal for Declan- he needs Jayla to stay protected, and not just to fulfil the desires of the rebellion, but for his own desires. Will Jayla be able to conceal her true powers, whilst also fighting back against those who wish to take it from her? Or will she put herself and those around her at risk? 🌙
🔮 ‘He hadn't accounted for Jayla cornering me in a practice room. Or for the girl being positively intoxicating. I hadn't accounted for that, either.’ 🔮
I loved this book! One of my favourite things about it was the unique setting and magic system! The world in this book consists of 12 Realms, all which have names and appearances based on colours. Some of these realms are considered ‘Radiant Realms’, and their people are bright, powerful and able to use their magic freely, and others are ‘Tinge Realms’ where the people are unable to use any magic, living in tougher conditions and under the control of other realms. This setting to me perfectly intertwines a magical setting with an almost dystopian feel- showing the wonder and beauty of magic, but also the repression that this level of power can cause. A lot of important messages were shown through this story, which I loved.
🔮 ‘My heart cracked in half at the books being lost right now. But I didn't have time to mourn my paper friends. I had an evil librarian to defeat.’ 🔮
Another thing I absolutely adored in this book were the relationships! I loved how sisterhood and family were shown in this book, and how Jayla would do anything to make sure her family is ok. I loved that this is what other characters appreciate so much about her too! I also loved the friendships she builds at the academy and her relationship growth with Declan- it makes it feel special that these were all completely unexpected things that she never knew she needed. Slow burn, forbidden romance is done very well in this book- Barbara has you constantly waiting for what will come next, in a way that is clean and YA which I personally love! 🩵
Some tropes you can expect!
⭐️ Magical trials
⭐️ Slow burn, forbidden romance
⭐️ Unique magic systems
⭐️ Sisterly bonds & high stakes
⭐️ Hidden powers & secret strength
⭐️ Chosen one energy
If you love books with a magical academy setting, slow burn, forbidden romance, great found friendships and FMC’s that uncover their true identity and strength, then read Prismia Academy! You will love it! 🩵
Thank you to Tales and Teacups and to the author for allowing me to read this book- I absolutely loved it!! 💗
I would rate this book 4.5 ⭐️, it was an amazing YA fantasy book! I will definitely be reading the rest of the series! If you love books with a magic academy setting, this will be a book for you- the setting was amazing, with such a unique magic system! 🩵
A power has awakened in Jayla Phoenix- her younger sister was arrested by Realm Guards for a crime she didn’t commit, and she couldn’t just stand by and do nothing. Because of this magical outburst, she is left with no choice but to be sentenced to military mage academy, a ruthless where she’ll train as a soldier to hardness her magic. To be turned into a ruthless weapon for those above. But quickly Jayla finds out that it’s not just the academy after her power, a powerful rebellion has been watching her and they want her to join their group. She may be a lot more powerful than she believes.
To pass out of the academy, Jayla must learn to harness her magic whilst also keeping it under control and hidden from unwanted onlookers- if she shows too much she will attract the attention of those who wish to take her power for themselves. She receives the guidance of Declan, a brooding mage, fellow student and secret rebellion member- but as a person from a Radiant Realm he should never even be seen talking to Jayla, a Tinger. What initially began a task from the rebellion soon becomes more personal for Declan- he needs Jayla to stay protected, and not just to fulfil the desires of the rebellion, but for his own desires. Will Jayla be able to conceal her true powers, whilst also fighting back against those who wish to take it from her? Or will she put herself and those around her at risk? 🌙
🔮 ‘He hadn't accounted for Jayla cornering me in a practice room. Or for the girl being positively intoxicating. I hadn't accounted for that, either.’ 🔮
I loved this book! One of my favourite things about it was the unique setting and magic system! The world in this book consists of 12 Realms, all which have names and appearances based on colours. Some of these realms are considered ‘Radiant Realms’, and their people are bright, powerful and able to use their magic freely, and others are ‘Tinge Realms’ where the people are unable to use any magic, living in tougher conditions and under the control of other realms. This setting to me perfectly intertwines a magical setting with an almost dystopian feel- showing the wonder and beauty of magic, but also the repression that this level of power can cause. A lot of important messages were shown through this story, which I loved.
🔮 ‘My heart cracked in half at the books being lost right now. But I didn't have time to mourn my paper friends. I had an evil librarian to defeat.’ 🔮
Another thing I absolutely adored in this book were the relationships! I loved how sisterhood and family were shown in this book, and how Jayla would do anything to make sure her family is ok. I loved that this is what other characters appreciate so much about her too! I also loved the friendships she builds at the academy and her relationship growth with Declan- it makes it feel special that these were all completely unexpected things that she never knew she needed. Slow burn, forbidden romance is done very well in this book- Barbara has you constantly waiting for what will come next, in a way that is clean and YA which I personally love! 🩵
Some tropes you can expect!
⭐️ Magical trials
⭐️ Slow burn, forbidden romance
⭐️ Unique magic systems
⭐️ Sisterly bonds & high stakes
⭐️ Hidden powers & secret strength
⭐️ Chosen one energy
If you love books with a magical academy setting, slow burn, forbidden romance, great found friendships and FMC’s that uncover their true identity and strength, then read Prismia Academy! You will love it! 🩵
Thank you to Tales and Teacups and to the author for allowing me to read this book- I absolutely loved it!! 💗
August 3, 2025
Can’t believe that I’m getting the opportunity to review such a cool book in my first book tour ever! I said “WOAH?!” multiple times every time I turn to another page. Even without pictures, I can imagine the colors, shades, and hues exploding before my eyes. Prismia Academy has successfully surprised me in many ways and I gotta say it is included in my I-wanna-read-it-again list.
Little Malika would love it, teen Malika would love it, and adult Malika loves it. This book is something I would’ve bought if I had seen it in an offline bookstore. It’s so colourful that I already have recommended one of my best friends to get it online if she’s able to because Prismia Academy is right up her alley and she’ll go just as crazy about it as I do.
Jayla Phoenix. I would LOVE to have her as my best friend. She’s one of my favourite characters so far, along with Mira! I’m kinda hoping there’s a prequel about Mira and Saffie (PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE). Also is it just me but IS SAFFIE DESI?!?! LIKE ME?! AND I NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT JAYLA’S AND ZIA’S DAD! I am HOPING (and sobbing while doing it) that he is still alive.
Now, the next big question: What power would I have? I love Navy and Plum, but I also want Indigo! What about you guys?? I bet you all can’t choose one hue either. It’s a hard choice, isn’t it?
Little Malika would love it, teen Malika would love it, and adult Malika loves it. This book is something I would’ve bought if I had seen it in an offline bookstore. It’s so colourful that I already have recommended one of my best friends to get it online if she’s able to because Prismia Academy is right up her alley and she’ll go just as crazy about it as I do.
Jayla Phoenix. I would LOVE to have her as my best friend. She’s one of my favourite characters so far, along with Mira! I’m kinda hoping there’s a prequel about Mira and Saffie (PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE). Also is it just me but IS SAFFIE DESI?!?! LIKE ME?! AND I NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT JAYLA’S AND ZIA’S DAD! I am HOPING (and sobbing while doing it) that he is still alive.
Now, the next big question: What power would I have? I love Navy and Plum, but I also want Indigo! What about you guys?? I bet you all can’t choose one hue either. It’s a hard choice, isn’t it?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
This book was a fantastic, quick YA read.
It had a wonderfully unique magic system based on a rainbow colour spectrum with Radiant (upper class) and Tinge (lower class) colours. It was told from a dual POV by Jayla (Tinger) and Declan (Radiant) which added extra depth to the story.
The importance of family was so well illustrated particularly in Jayla’s bond with her sister and mother and the lengths she will go to to protect them.
Jayla goes from struggling to survive in the Amber World to a sentence of 4 years at Prismia Academy due to Declan intervening to protect her. She has never really had friends before but she flourishes at the academy and makes some beautiful friendships. She also becomes involved in a forbidden romance which I’m sure will flourish further in the next book in the series.
All the characters were so well written, the world building and magic system were easy to understand and I became completely invested in the story.
There is a prequel novel which I hadn’t read first but will definitely go back and read. I found the book easy to follow despite not having read the prequel.
If you love magical academies, strong bonds and forbidden romance don’t miss this brilliant book!!!
Thank you to Tales and Teacups and the author for the free review copy.
It had a wonderfully unique magic system based on a rainbow colour spectrum with Radiant (upper class) and Tinge (lower class) colours. It was told from a dual POV by Jayla (Tinger) and Declan (Radiant) which added extra depth to the story.
The importance of family was so well illustrated particularly in Jayla’s bond with her sister and mother and the lengths she will go to to protect them.
Jayla goes from struggling to survive in the Amber World to a sentence of 4 years at Prismia Academy due to Declan intervening to protect her. She has never really had friends before but she flourishes at the academy and makes some beautiful friendships. She also becomes involved in a forbidden romance which I’m sure will flourish further in the next book in the series.
All the characters were so well written, the world building and magic system were easy to understand and I became completely invested in the story.
There is a prequel novel which I hadn’t read first but will definitely go back and read. I found the book easy to follow despite not having read the prequel.
If you love magical academies, strong bonds and forbidden romance don’t miss this brilliant book!!!
Thank you to Tales and Teacups and the author for the free review copy.
August 7, 2025
3.5 rounded up to 4
This was an interesting read. It definitely reads YA, a little more so than I prefer. If you like magic schools, magic trials, a little bit of a dystopian vibe with the government and the rebellion aspect, you'll probably like this.
It just fell a little short for me in terms of places where the writing felt clunky, where I wasn't totally sure about the world building, or even the magic system; considering the theme is magic academy, I expected to have a lot more knowledge about said magic, how it works and why, but it seems like magic can really do just about anything, and the color structures don't seem to actually limit the use of magic as rigidly as I was expecting, and in fact would have preferred. The feeling that magic can do, and therefore fix, anything, lowered a lot of the intensity for me.
I liked Jayla and Declan for the most part. They both have their idiot kid moments, but overall, they're great POV characters and the pacing and tension of their romance was probably one of the best parts of this book.
This was just an okay read for me, but I'll probably pick up the sequel, if only to find out what happens to Jayla's father, and it's certainly enjoyable enough to recommend, especially to the YA audience it's intended for.
This was an interesting read. It definitely reads YA, a little more so than I prefer. If you like magic schools, magic trials, a little bit of a dystopian vibe with the government and the rebellion aspect, you'll probably like this.
It just fell a little short for me in terms of places where the writing felt clunky, where I wasn't totally sure about the world building, or even the magic system; considering the theme is magic academy, I expected to have a lot more knowledge about said magic, how it works and why, but it seems like magic can really do just about anything, and the color structures don't seem to actually limit the use of magic as rigidly as I was expecting, and in fact would have preferred. The feeling that magic can do, and therefore fix, anything, lowered a lot of the intensity for me.
I liked Jayla and Declan for the most part. They both have their idiot kid moments, but overall, they're great POV characters and the pacing and tension of their romance was probably one of the best parts of this book.
This was just an okay read for me, but I'll probably pick up the sequel, if only to find out what happens to Jayla's father, and it's certainly enjoyable enough to recommend, especially to the YA audience it's intended for.
July 27, 2025
Prismia Academy follows 16 year old Jayla, who accidentally discovers she is able to create portals between realms, something that's highly forbidden. After a stranger helps conceal her crime she is offered the chance to enroll in Prismia Academy, a military school for mages. Jayla must learn to control her new-found magic and keep it hidden, whilst trying to resist her classmate Declan, who just happens to be the stranger who helped her in the first place...
This story has a unique magic system based on a colour spectrum, and I found I could picture the world so vividly. Everything is built very naturally, you understand the magic and world around Jayla as she discovers new things.
Jayla is a captivating heroine, fueled by her desire to look after her family and uncover truths to her lineage and magic. Her relationship with Declan grows throughout the story but has plenty of tense moments. This story is fast paced and makes a wonderful fantasy read.
This story has a unique magic system based on a colour spectrum, and I found I could picture the world so vividly. Everything is built very naturally, you understand the magic and world around Jayla as she discovers new things.
Jayla is a captivating heroine, fueled by her desire to look after her family and uncover truths to her lineage and magic. Her relationship with Declan grows throughout the story but has plenty of tense moments. This story is fast paced and makes a wonderful fantasy read.
"I wanted there to be some kind of future where we didn't have realms or secrets between us.
But that was only a dream.
And my presence in her world would only do more harm than good."
April 5, 2025
What an Brilliant start to the series! Jayla has grown up in the Amber Realm with her sister and sick mother. She and her sister goes to the market for food and medicine, where she is arrested and sent to Prismia Academy a military mage academy, Jayla is a Tinger, there are two types at the academy Tingers who are regarded as “less thans” and Radiants who are the chosen ones with the strongest magic,
To her suprise Jayla Makes firm friends with Mira, Saffie, Freya, Finn and Luca who we met in the Prequal Prismia Primary.
Someone she did not make friends with but was instantly drawn to was Declan who as a Radiant she was not allowed to mix with did he feel the same, you really will have to read this 1st in series to find out.
It will Grab you straight away there are Friendship, Enemies, Romance a Secret Rebellion, Spies, Adventure and excitement all the way. I recommend this Book and cannot wait for Book 2
I received an ARC for free and. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
To her suprise Jayla Makes firm friends with Mira, Saffie, Freya, Finn and Luca who we met in the Prequal Prismia Primary.
Someone she did not make friends with but was instantly drawn to was Declan who as a Radiant she was not allowed to mix with did he feel the same, you really will have to read this 1st in series to find out.
It will Grab you straight away there are Friendship, Enemies, Romance a Secret Rebellion, Spies, Adventure and excitement all the way. I recommend this Book and cannot wait for Book 2
I received an ARC for free and. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2025
This was such a fun quick read! I love reading academy books and this one had everything I love about them included! Magical classes, new roommates, mean girls and a forbidden romance since they are from different magical tiers. 😍
The magic system was so cool and based on the colors of the rainbow and each of the 6 colors were split into 2 groups, the Radients and the Tingers, causing 12 realms of colors with each color having its own unique abilities.
I loved Jayla and her determination and the protectiveness of her family. I loved watching her learn and grow so much in the book!
Jayla and Declan were great together and I can’t wait to see their relationship progress. Loved getting both of their POVs in this book!
Can’t wait to read book 2! Thank you so much @bab for this ARC ☺️
If you love:
❤️Magical Academy
🧡Forbidden Romance
💛Unique Magic System
💚Shadow Wielding MMC
💙Chosen One
💜Slow Burn Romance
🤍1st person POV/Duel POV
🖤No Spice Romance
The magic system was so cool and based on the colors of the rainbow and each of the 6 colors were split into 2 groups, the Radients and the Tingers, causing 12 realms of colors with each color having its own unique abilities.
I loved Jayla and her determination and the protectiveness of her family. I loved watching her learn and grow so much in the book!
Jayla and Declan were great together and I can’t wait to see their relationship progress. Loved getting both of their POVs in this book!
Can’t wait to read book 2! Thank you so much @bab for this ARC ☺️
If you love:
❤️Magical Academy
🧡Forbidden Romance
💛Unique Magic System
💚Shadow Wielding MMC
💙Chosen One
💜Slow Burn Romance
🤍1st person POV/Duel POV
🖤No Spice Romance
August 2, 2025
This turned out to one of my top reads this year so far! ❤️This is book one in the series, but the novella, Prismia Primary, lays down some backstory for a couple of the side characters in this book, so I'd recommend reading it first to get the full experience. I normally don't read books with younger FMC/MMC. but this book doesn't read like an immature high school romance. All of the characters have a lot of emotional maturity when it comes to talking about how they're feeling. There's an incredible plot that has DEPTH and gives a lot of backstory in such a short read! I wouldn't say there are major plot twists in this book, but honestly, I don't think it needed them. The magic system and world building are amazing. I will 1000% be finishing this series.
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! ❤️
❤️Forbidden Love
❤️Strangers-Friends-Lovers
❤️Dual POV
❤️Slow burn
Spice: 🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! ❤️
❤️Forbidden Love
❤️Strangers-Friends-Lovers
❤️Dual POV
❤️Slow burn
Spice: 🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 30, 2025
If you're a fan of Hunger Games and/or Divergent, then this is definitely a book that you'll enjoy.
The main character, Jayla is trying to protect her sister when she accidentally displays her magical powers. Including one she didn't know she had 'the power to portal between realms'. What follows is an adventure as she is arrested and then sentenced to attend Prismia Academy for four years before being conscripted into their military. She does this in order to protect her family, all the while trying to keep the full extent of her powers a secret from those who would try to steal them from her.
With the divisions of realms/powers giving Divergent vibes and the sisterly bonds and high stakes familiar to readers of The Hunger Games, this is certainly a book you won't want to miss out on.
[First in a series :) ]
The main character, Jayla is trying to protect her sister when she accidentally displays her magical powers. Including one she didn't know she had 'the power to portal between realms'. What follows is an adventure as she is arrested and then sentenced to attend Prismia Academy for four years before being conscripted into their military. She does this in order to protect her family, all the while trying to keep the full extent of her powers a secret from those who would try to steal them from her.
With the divisions of realms/powers giving Divergent vibes and the sisterly bonds and high stakes familiar to readers of The Hunger Games, this is certainly a book you won't want to miss out on.
[First in a series :) ]
April 4, 2025
What an awesome start to the series! We follow Jayla who has grown up in the Amber Realm which is a Tinger Realm. There are two types of people in this world and its realms, the “haves” who are born into the Radiant Realms and the “have-nots” who are born into the Tinger Realms. The Radiants have the strongest magic and the Tingers are considered less, and treated as less, by the Radiants. The book starts out with Jayla and her sister going to the market and that is where the adventure begins…and what an adventure it is! The book grabs your attention quickly and keeps it. Prismia Academy has excitement, some romance, friendships and of course those who aren’t so friendly!!! I definitely recommend the book!
April 8, 2025
I want the next book now! An amazing story by an outstanding author.
This book I am assuming is the first in a series. As always Ms. Hartzler fully developed the characters, weaved intrigue in and around them, and kept the suspense coming. The story line is well thought out but still leaves room for improvisation. Everything seems to be falling into place, and you think you know what’s coming next and wham things turn sideways as this author maneuvers the reader into a new place inside the story line. In Prismia Academy the author keeps all the romance and good vs evil but yet tells those stories in a new and very unique way as Magic from colors and hues from a prism. Again, a great job by Barbara Hartzler!
This book I am assuming is the first in a series. As always Ms. Hartzler fully developed the characters, weaved intrigue in and around them, and kept the suspense coming. The story line is well thought out but still leaves room for improvisation. Everything seems to be falling into place, and you think you know what’s coming next and wham things turn sideways as this author maneuvers the reader into a new place inside the story line. In Prismia Academy the author keeps all the romance and good vs evil but yet tells those stories in a new and very unique way as Magic from colors and hues from a prism. Again, a great job by Barbara Hartzler!
April 3, 2025
Again with the stars. I love the ability this author has to tell a story with action intrigue danger and romance and keep the story fit for under 18 year old readers. The authors that write for the YA audience have to deal with more issues than my generation ever dreamed of. Young people now are forced to grow up so quickly and they just aren’t given the grounding they need to build successful lives. The beauty and originality of this author’s stories just fascinates me and keeps me coming back for more.
I received an ARC for free and. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC for free and. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 7, 2025
I had a lot of fun reading this. Budding forbidden love with instant chemistry, sparks and all. Declan tries so hard to keep his distance but resistance is futile. Jayla understandably has a hard time concealing her magic and controlling it. If it's discovered how powerful she is, she'll be imprisoned or worse.
I loved the secondary characters as well.
Fans of Fourth Wing, Zodiac Academy, Red Queen, and Shadow and Bone will definitely love this! It's like a slightly older Harry Potter at 16.
I loved the secondary characters as well.
Fans of Fourth Wing, Zodiac Academy, Red Queen, and Shadow and Bone will definitely love this! It's like a slightly older Harry Potter at 16.
April 15, 2025
We are off to Prismia Academy, a military mage academy that is tough and ruthless and where we find Jayla our fmc who has been sent, to be turned into a weapon. It’s an intriguing read, well paced and gripping as we follow our underdog and her newfound friends through their trials and challenges. It’s an exciting read, full of adventure, action, danger, drama and of course a little romance with wonderful world building that draws you in and has you experience what our characters experience. I look forward to reading more!
August 5, 2025
Omg I loved every minute of this book! Itt gave me dystopia vibes. Reminds me of Divergent with their fractions and different abilities. It also had more magical vibes to it. So it has Divergent, Silver Elite vibes. I am forgetting the book off hand. Basically the main character has to hide her heritage/ abilities. she accidentally portals when she is with her sister and Declan ends up getting her to go to the academy vs being sentenced somewhere worse. There is a rebellion and you dont know who is your friend and who os your enemy. cant wait to pick up the prequel and book 2.
August 5, 2025
It took me a little while to fully get my head around the different realms and how everything worked, but once I did-wow, what a fascinating concept!
The worldbuilding is original, with just enough mystery to keep me turning the pages. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Declan and Jayla-there's something magnetic about their dynamic that pulled me in.
The whole story gave me Harry Potter vibes, with hidden powers, and a main character discovering there's more to them than meets the eye.
Looking forward to stepping into book 2
The worldbuilding is original, with just enough mystery to keep me turning the pages. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Declan and Jayla-there's something magnetic about their dynamic that pulled me in.
The whole story gave me Harry Potter vibes, with hidden powers, and a main character discovering there's more to them than meets the eye.
Looking forward to stepping into book 2
April 8, 2025
The world is very different than any thing I have read. Six different worlds but interconnected. Some of the powers are extraordinary that they can wield. Learning to control them takes time. Of course that is what school is for, to learn. Plus there always is some one that makes your whole body tingle. Very good story. I look forward to seeing how they navigate things from here. I received a complimentary review copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
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April 10, 2025I can definetly see the potential for this book. The world building is interesting and intriguing. I'm definetly rooting for Jayla. The writing feels a bit juvenile, and it's totally understandable considering the main character is 16 and the book is YA. Unfortunately it wasn't for me, but if you want a YA magical academy story with secret powers and political intrigue I recommend giving it a shot.
April 15, 2025
Great Book!
This book was welled written. I loved the connection with Jayla and Declan to include her friends. I didn’t feel the need to skip pages because the story kept me entertained from the beginning to the end. The only thing I do not like is cliffhangers because I have to wait too long before the next book comes out. While I am waiting for the next book, I end up forgetting what the first book was about.
This book was welled written. I loved the connection with Jayla and Declan to include her friends. I didn’t feel the need to skip pages because the story kept me entertained from the beginning to the end. The only thing I do not like is cliffhangers because I have to wait too long before the next book comes out. While I am waiting for the next book, I end up forgetting what the first book was about.
December 21, 2025
Quick dystopian typa academy magic book
3,5 rounded to 4
Was a good world build and I liked the magic a lot.
Got a bit of dystopian vibe with the Tingers and Radiants so low and upper class civilization and magic wielders
Liked the romances built between Declan and our FMC.
I also liked the academy set and friendship building.
I felt some repetitive part time to time but overall enjoyable read.
Im not sure however that Ill see to B2
3,5 rounded to 4
Was a good world build and I liked the magic a lot.
Got a bit of dystopian vibe with the Tingers and Radiants so low and upper class civilization and magic wielders
Liked the romances built between Declan and our FMC.
I also liked the academy set and friendship building.
I felt some repetitive part time to time but overall enjoyable read.
Im not sure however that Ill see to B2
June 30, 2025
As the title says, this is a very ya story. Jayla is 16 and the book aligns correctly with her age and maturity. Therefore, the dialogue and prose are predictable and elementary. It appears to be a MF romantasy in an academy setting, with mysterious magical powers developing throughout. Well done for its genre, but not for adults.
July 31, 2025
Jayla is one of my favorite fmc because of her honesty and ability to get to the point. Declan is a great mmc, as well, with his stubborn determination. The side characters round out this awesome story! Thank you for the arc, @talesandteacupspr and @barbarahartzler!! I definitely want to continue this series to follow Jayla and her friends and family journey!
April 11, 2025
Fantastic new series,new characters withsome interesting abilities that may get them in trouble as they uncover what is really going on in the realms. I enjoyed reading this about the different realms and abilities. I would recommend it.
April 14, 2025
Another addition to the wonderful writing of Barbara Hartzler. Characters are very personable and make you feel like you are part of them. World descriptions are vibrant and inviting. This is a nice start to a new series. I can't wait to see what happens next.
April 12, 2025
Barbara Hartzler made me feel like a 16 year old school girl again. Only now there are also mysteries, magic and of course - magical creatures.
April 16, 2025
I enjoyed reading this first book of Barbara Hartzler's new series and definitely recommend. I have enjoyed all books written by this writer so far and I am looking forward to reading more.
April 17, 2025
Original reason for going to paranormal school. So far the action has been limited, but I predict more in the next book
April 17, 2025
This book was amazing!! Probably my favorite of all of them so far. I can’t wait to read the next in the series
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